7-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from La Rochelle to Tours and Nantes
Description
Included
Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in France as you embark on an unforgettable 7-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like La Rochelle, Tours, Amboise, Nantes, and Angers.
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 La Rochelle, 2 nights in Tours, and 1 night in Nantes. 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 La Rochelle, 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. Château De Chambord and Château De Chenonceau are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes, learn more about the unique Château D'amboise, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Château Du Clos Lucé.
As you hit the open road and drive through La Rochelle, Tours, Amboise, Nantes, and Angers, 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!
Itinerary summary
See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1
- La Rochelle - Arrival day
- More
- Saint Louis Cathedral
- More
Say hello to La Rochelle! Your exciting road trip through France is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in La Rochelle for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!
La Rochelle 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 Saint Louis Cathedral, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in La Rochelle. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in La Rochelle, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at La Côte Rôtie, a top-rated dining spot in La Rochelle. If you're in the mood for something new, try La Boussole, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Les hédonistes. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in La Rochelle.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Mac Ewan's Pub, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Le Cadre offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in La Rochelle. Le Plan B is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in France!
Day 2
- La Rochelle
- More
Drive 4 km, 1 hour 6 min
- Musée maritime de La Rochelle
- La Grande Roue
- Saint Saviour Church of La Rochelle
- Bunker La Rochelle (Museum)
- Charruyer Park of La Rochelle
- Parc animalier
- More
On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore La Rochelle. You’ll stay in La Rochelle for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Today's adventure in La Rochelle promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Musée Maritime De La Rochelle. This history-steeped maritime museum is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy La Grande Roue, another romantic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Saint Saviour Church Of La Rochelle, one of the city’s most increasingly popular attractions, known for its history-steeped features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Bunker La Rochelle (museum). This history-steeped museum is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Charruyer Park Of La Rochelle, an increasingly popular park, and take a stroll around the area. If you want to extend your self-guided sightseeing tour, go check out Parc Animalier before you head back to your hotel.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. France is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in La Rochelle. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Les Flots, a highly-rated dining destination in La Rochelle. If you're eager to try something different, consider Palem Café, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Christopher Coutanceau. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in La Rochelle this evening.
Continue your lively evening at Le Dock Café, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Le Mary Lili is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, L'alibi ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!
Day 3
- La Rochelle
- Tours
- More
Drive 408 km, 4 hours 52 min
- Château de Chenonceau
- Château de Chambord
- Trott'in Loire
- More
Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in France. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Tours. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in the charming city of La Rochelle. Your adventure starts at Château De Chenonceau, a locally renowned local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Château De Chambord. This notable castle is known for its visually striking appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander La Rochelle's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Trott'in Loire.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Tours, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As you explore more of Tours, 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 delightful dinner at TIA Gourmet, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Les Bartavelles? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Hotel Restaurant Le Faisan as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Tours.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Cave À Vins Et À Bières Vins Sur 20, Bar Et Soirées À Thème stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Piraat Cafe Tours offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. L'alexandra is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 4
- Tours
- More
Drive 127 km, 2 hours 16 min
- Basilica of St. Martin, Tours
- Château d'Amboise
- Chapel of Saint-Hubert
- Château du Clos Lucé
- Château de Villandry
- Castle of Aulée
- More
Greet day 4 of your road trip in France with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Tours for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Tours and Amboise.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Tours, featuring fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. Start at Basilica Of St. Martin, Tours, a worthwhile church in the city.
There are many interesting places to see in Tours, and when you are ready for more, go to Chapel Of Saint-hubert. This is one of the city’s most underrated grand spots of interest. After exploring the church, visit the interesting Château Du Clos Lucé. Not far away, you'll also find Château De Villandry. This castle is a romantic highlight in Tours. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to Castle Of Aulée, a curiosity-inducing sightseeing destination in the city.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Tours and your accommodation.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Tours. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Don’t miss out on dining at The Originals Relais, Château de Beaulieu et Magnolia Spa, a top-rated dining destination in Tours. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Au Café d' en face, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at L'Escapade. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Tours this evening.
Continue your lively evening at Café Bar Jazz Le Strapontin, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Le P Tit Soleil is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, La Belle Époque ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!
Day 5
- Tours
- Nantes
- More
Drive 228 km, 2 hours 58 min
- Île de Versailles (Nantes)
- Botanical Garden
- Château des ducs de Bretagne
- Machines of the Isle of Nantes
- More
Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Nantes. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Nantes, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Start by visiting Île De Versailles (nantes), a prime spot to begin your journey. This romantic park is sure to impress. Next on your list is Botanical Garden, another must-visit landmark and interesting botanical garden renowned for its peaceful features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Tours by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Château Des Ducs De Bretagne. This picture-perfect castle is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Tours experience. We also recommend visiting Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes, a well-known art installation.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Nantes. Nantes offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Nantes. 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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Gigg's Irish Pub, a top-rated dining destination in Nantes. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider L'Aménité - Restaurant Nantes, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Parallèle. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Nantes this evening.
Continue your lively evening at Le Chat Noir, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Oceania Hôtel De France Nantes is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Bar Le Cercle Rouge Nantes ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!
Day 6
- Nantes
- La Rochelle
- More
Drive 278 km, 3 hours 42 min
- Balzac Park
- Château d'Angers
- Angers Cathedral
- Le jardin du Mail
- Jardin des Plantes d'Angers
- More
On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Angers. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in La Rochelle, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Today’s itinerary in Nantes covers several incredible sights, including a park, a castle, a church, a botanical garden and much more! Start your adventure at Balzac Park. This up-and-coming park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the grand wonders of Château D'angers, a must-see castle in the city.
Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Angers Cathedral. This often recommended church offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Le Jardin Du Mail, where you can take in romantic features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Jardin Des Plantes D'angers. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in La Rochelle. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of La Rochelle's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Make sure to reserve a table at La Plage, an iconic dining spot in La Rochelle. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of LE JARDIN DU MARCHÉ, a popular restaurant in La Rochelle. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Les copains d'abord, a hidden gem nestled in La Rochelle. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Le Saint-nicolas Hôtel La Rochelle, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Académie De La Bière offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Lili La Rochelle. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!
Day 7
- La Rochelle - Departure day
- More
- Grosse Horloge
- More
Day 7 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of La Rochelle before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Grosse Horloge, a breathtaking monument before you head out.
As your final day in France unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in La Rochelle's best shopping area, Le Marché Central. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to France.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in La Rochelle.
If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Le Bistrot de Mémé, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
You’ll then say farewell to La Rochelle. 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.