7-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bordeaux traveling south to Bayonne, Lourdes, and Toulouse
Description
Included
Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 7-day road trip through France. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in France takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Bordeaux, 1 night in Bayonne, 1 night in Lourdes, and 1 night in Toulouse. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in France. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Bordeaux, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover France on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in France. Cité De Carcassonne and Dune Of Pilat are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Bordeaux, Le Bouscat, Lormont, Arcachon, Biarritz, Lourdes, Gez, Carcassonne, Toulouse, and Blagnac, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of France. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in France.
Throughout your road trip in France, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in France.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in France fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in France today!
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1 – Bordeaux - arrival day
- Bordeaux - Arrival day
- More
- place de la Bourse
- More
Welcome to Bordeaux, the perfect starting point for your road trip in France! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Bordeaux's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Bordeaux is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Place De La Bourse or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Bordeaux. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in France. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bordeaux. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Savor the flavors at Le Cent 33, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, L'Originel beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Le Clemenceau. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bordeaux tonight.
Continue your lively evening at Café Brun, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Le Mushroom Café is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Whose Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in France!
Day 2 – Bordeaux, Le Bouscat, and Lormont
- Bordeaux
- More
Drive 19 km, 1 hour 8 min
- jardin public
- miroir d'eau
- Bordeaux Cathedral
- place de la Bourse
- More
Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Le Bouscat has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Bordeaux by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the town.
A blend of a charming, a serene, an awe-inspiring, a photogenic, a noteworthy, a respected, a profound, a grand, and an UNESCO world heritage-designated await you in Bordeaux on today’s itinerary. First up is the popular park, Jardin Public. It's a standout spot that offers a memorable visit. Afterward, continue to Miroir D'eau. A visit to this art installation is an enriching experience for all.
As you explore Bordeaux’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town. Next, make your way to Bordeaux Cathedral. This captivating church is an essential stop that should not be missed.
You can learn more about Le Bouscat today by going on a tour. Le Bouscat offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites below.
As you explore more of Bordeaux, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at L'Oiseau Bleu, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurant Soléna offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Hôtel De Sèze. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bordeaux.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Grizzly Pub is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, The Dog And Duck also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Head back to your accommodation in Bordeaux and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!
Day 3 – Bordeaux, Arcachon, Bayonne, and Biarritz
- Bordeaux
- Arcachon
- Biarritz
- Bayonne
- More
Drive 313 km, 4 hours 28 min
- Le Train de La Rhune
- Rocher de la vierge
- Biarritz Aquarium
- place de la Bourse
- More
On day 3 of your road trip in France, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Arcachon, Bayonne, and Biarritz. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bayonne, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today's adventure in Arcachon promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences!
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Arcachon. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 4 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Take your self-guided tour to Dune Of Pilat, an interesting sand dunes that everyone visiting Arcachon should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Arcachon, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Bayonne may take around 2 hours 19 min. Upon your arrival in Bayonne, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Your self-guided tour starts at Le Train De La Rhune, a locally renowned heritage railway that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Biarritz, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Upon arrival in Biarritz, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Rocher De La Vierge is a well-known rock formation we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Biarritz Aquarium, an awe-inspiring aquarium that’s well-regarded in the area.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Bayonne. Bayonne offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Bayonne. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Don’t miss out on dining at JANINE, a top-rated dining destination in Bayonne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Josie Factory, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Belzunce. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bayonne this evening.
Keep the evening going at Dame Jeanne, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Café Des Pyrénées, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Kubata & Kukubat, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!
Day 4 – Bayonne, Lourdes, and Gez
- Bayonne
- Argelès-Gazost
- Lourdes
- Gez
- More
Drive 232 km, 3 hours 55 min
- Grottes de Bétharram
- Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary
- Pont d'Espagne
- More
On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Lourdes and Gez. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Lourdes, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
After soaking in Bayonne’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Lourdes. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 41 min. When you arrive in Lourdes, it's time to take a break from the road.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Grottes De Bétharram. Spend some time admiring the picturesque features of the cave system before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Pont D'espagne. This locally appreciated waterfall is a traveler-favorite in the city.
After soaking in Gez’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Lourdes. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 16 min. When you arrive in Lourdes, it's time to take a break from the road.
Spend your afternoon discovering Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Rosary, an increasingly popular church known for its culturally significant features.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Gez. This drive usually takes around 40 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Begin your journey at Animal Park Of The Pyrenees and explore the scenic features.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Lourdes, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Lourdes. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Hôtel Roissy, Lourdes, a highly-rated dining destination in Lourdes. If you're eager to try something different, consider Grand Hôtel Gallia & Londres Bike & NUXE Spa, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hôtel Saint-Sébastien. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Lourdes this evening.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!
Day 5 – Lourdes, Carcassonne, and Toulouse
- Lourdes
- Carcassonne
- Toulouse
- More
Drive 360 km, 4 hours 4 min
- Château comtal de Carcassonne
- Cité de Carcassonne
- Basilica of St. Sernin
- Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary
- More
Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Carcassonne and Toulouse. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Toulouse, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Carcassonne’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Lourdes behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 39 min. Carcassonne welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Spend your afternoon discovering Château Comtal, an increasingly popular castle known for its history-steeped features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Cité De Carcassonne, a widely recognized castle that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Carcassonne, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Toulouse. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 11 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Begin your journey at Basilica Of St. Sernin and explore the culturally significant features.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Toulouse. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Toulouse's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restaurant Le May, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try L*Agence? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Le Perche Pinte as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Toulouse.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Moloko, known for its inviting atmosphere. The Botanist Pub is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Melting Pot Pub provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Say good night to Toulouse and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!
Day 6 – Toulouse, Blagnac, and Bordeaux
- Toulouse
- Blagnac
- Bordeaux
- More
Drive 259 km, 3 hours 7 min
- Jardin des Plantes
- Grand Rond
- Pont-Neuf
- Musée Aeroscopia
- More
Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Toulouse and Blagnac, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Bordeaux. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Toulouse, including a botanical garden, a park, a monument, a public square and much more! Start your adventure at Jardin Des Plantes. This beloved botanical garden is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Grand Rond located in Toulouse for an enchanting atmosphere.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Pont-neuf. Its culturally significant features will captivate you. After the monument, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Place Saint-pierre. This public square has a romantic appeal.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Blagnac. This car ride takes around 15 min.
Musée Aeroscopia is an up-and-coming aviation museum we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its photogenic features before continuing your self-guided tour.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Bordeaux. Bordeaux offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
As you explore more of Bordeaux, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Locadillos, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Restaurant Le Plana offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Blind is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bordeaux.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Casey's Pub, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Le Bar À Vin. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Thecity, another top-rated place in the area.
Head back to your accommodation in Bordeaux and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!
Day 7 – Bordeaux - departure day
- Bordeaux - Departure day
- More
- Monument aux Girondins
- place de la Bourse
- More
Day 7 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Bordeaux before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Make the most of your final day in France by visiting Bordeaux’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in France.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Bordeaux today. One of the most worthwhile attractions included on the itinerary is Monument Aux Girondins. This masterful monument will help you start your sightseeing on top.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Bordeaux.
If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Le Chicoula Bistrot d'art, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Bordeaux. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in France!
Similar travel packages
Discover other popular vacations in France
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.