Relaxed 7-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from La Rochelle to Nantes

1 / 44
Photo of Aerial view of tour de la chaine and tour Saint Nicholas at La Rochelle, France.
Photo of seaside of La Rochelle dominated by Tour de la Lanterne, France.
Relaxed 7-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from La Rochelle to Nantes
Relaxed 7-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from La Rochelle to Nantes
Relaxed 7-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from La Rochelle to Nantes
Relaxed 7-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from La Rochelle to Nantes
Relaxed 7-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from La Rochelle to Nantes
Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Included

Flights
Select dates
Hotel
Select dates
Car rental
Select dates
Tours & tickets
Select dates
Travel plan
From A to Z
Travel agent
24/7 fast service

Description

Enjoy this 7-day relaxed road trip in France, with La Rochelle, Poitiers, Les Herbiers, Nantes, Rezé, Sainte-luce-sur-loire, La Chapelle-sur-Erdre, Vertou, and Clisson showing you the beauty, culture, and peaceful moments that make this journey special!

Travel freely with this relaxed self-drive package in France, designed for comfort and exploration. Spend 3 nights in La Rochelle and 3 nights in Nantes, staying at top-rated hotels near the heart of each city. Between drives, indulge in local cuisine, sip refreshing drinks, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in France.

Your journey starts in La Rochelle, where your rental car with CDW insurance will be ready for pickup. Choose a vehicle that suits your style, then set off on your 7-day relaxed road trip in France to explore its rich culture, fascinating history, and stunning landscapes.

Every stop on this leisurely self-drive holiday comes with handpicked accommodations that make relaxation effortless. Choose from elegant 5-star hotels with breathtaking views or comfortable 3-star stays that offer excellent value, all providing a welcoming retreat after a day on the road.

With your self-drive itinerary in France already planned, you’ll enjoy the country’s most celebrated sights without the rush. Marvel at the stunning Puy Du Fou and soak in the atmosphere of the magnificent Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes.

Enjoy each stop as you explore the history, architecture, and character of each destination on this France road trip itinerary for 7 days.

As you travel between destinations, you’ll have plenty of time to explore local markets and boutique shops. These stops give you the chance to find unique souvenirs, taste regional specialties, and experience everyday life in France.

If you want to make your 7-day relaxed self-drive tour in France even more memorable, add optional tours or activities. Join a guided excursion, discover hidden neighborhoods, or spend an afternoon in your favorite market. Each choice deepens your connection to the places you visit.

Alongside these experiences, your laid-back self-drive package in France includes 6 nights in comfortable hotels, a rental car for 7 days, and convenient access to nearby dining options. You can also add flights and entry tickets to shape the trip exactly how you want it. With 24/7 travel support and a mobile app keeping your itinerary and documents organized, you can enjoy a relaxed drive and savor every mile of the road ahead.

Turn your travel plans into reality. Book your 7-day relaxed self-drive road trip in France today and enjoy a journey filled with discovery, freedom, and unforgettable moments!

Read more

Travel details

Set your travel details to find the best price

Flights

Round trip
Round trip
Travel dates

Travelers

Rooms

Flights

Compare and choose from the best flights to La Rochelle

Car

Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options

Driver’s age is 30 - 65
I live in
Pick-up: 10:00
Drop-off: 10:00

Personalize your itinerary

Customize tours under each day and destination

Day1

Day 1

  • La Rochelle - Arrival day
  • More
  • Charruyer Park of La Rochelle
  • More

Your relaxed road trip through France starts when you reach the incredible city of La Rochelle, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in La Rochelle and begin your adventure in France.

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 Charruyer Park Of La Rochelle. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

When you're ready for some downtime, make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in La Rochelle. Make yourself at home and unwind 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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at La Côte Rôtie, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, La Boussole is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Les hédonistes. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in La Rochelle tonight.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in La Rochelle and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Mac Ewan's Pub stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Le Cadre offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Le Plan B is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Raise a toast as you look back on the highlights of today’s relaxed road trip in France. Enjoy your first taste of La Rochelle as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

Read more
Day2

Day 2

  • La Rochelle
  • Poitiers
  • More

Drive 302 km, 3 hours 32 min

  • The machine Traveling in Time
  • Dynamic Vienne
  • L'Extraordinaire Voyage
  • La Rochelle Aquarium
  • More

On day 2 of your relaxed road trip in France, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in La Rochelle and visit amazing attractions in Poitiers and La Rochelle, just outside the city. You still have 1 night left in La Rochelle, so today is another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Experience La Rochelle Aquarium, an intriguing aquarium in the city.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Poitiers. This car ride takes around 1 hour 39 min.

Next, make your way to Dynamic Vienne, another highlight in Poitiers. When you’re done exploring the point of interest, continue to The Extraordinary Voyage, a photogenic amusement park.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to La Rochelle and your accommodation.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of France. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in La Rochelle, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restaurant Les Flots, a popular restaurant in La Rochelle. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of La Rochelle at Palem Café, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Christopher Coutanceau. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in La Rochelle tonight.

Experience the amazing nightlife in La Rochelle and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Le Dock Café stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Le Mary Lili offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. L'alibi is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in France. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in France tomorrow with new energy.

Read more
Day3

Day 3

  • La Rochelle
  • Les Herbiers
  • Nantes
  • More

Drive 208 km, 2 hours 54 min

  • Gare des Herbiers
  • Municipal Park Landreau
  • Puy du Fou
  • More

On day 3 of your laid-back road trip adventure in France, you can visit several remarkable places. With the freedom and flexibility of a self-drive tour, you decide how much time to spend in each, making the most of these memorable destinations.

When you’ve had your share of La Rochelle, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Les Herbiers. Your travel time is around 1 hour 26 min.

Next, continue your sightseeing at Municipal Park Landreau, a curiosity-inducing park.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in La Forge. This drive usually takes around 17 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Puy Du Fou is a top-rated amusement park we recommend visiting today. Discover its picture-perfect features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you can relax in Nantes. Here, you can choose from the best hotels and other accommodations as you get to know more about the culture in the city.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of France. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Nantes, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Gigg's Irish Pub, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? L'Aménité - Restaurant Nantes offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Parallèle. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Nantes.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Le Chat Noir offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Oceania Hôtel De France Nantes is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Bar Le Cercle Rouge Nantes is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Les Herbiers can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in France!

Read more
Day4

Day 4

  • Nantes
  • Rezé
  • More

Drive 15 km, 54 min

  • Jardin extraordinaire (Nantes)
  • Machines of the Isle of Nantes
  • Natural History Museum
  • parc de Procé
  • parc de la Gaudinière
  • More

On day 4 of your relaxed road trip across France, you’ll explore the area around Nantes, where you’ll be staying for another 2 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Nantes will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of France.

Whether you decide to explore Rezé on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

One of the most notable attractions included on the itinerary is Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes. This gorgeous art installation will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Natural History Museum and learn what makes this historic museum unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the locally appreciated Parc De Procé. After exploring the park, head to Parc De La Gaudinière. This increasingly popular park is a highlight in Nantes.

Rezé’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Nantes behind. This drive usually takes around 12 min. Rezé welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Jardin Extraordinaire (nantes), a curiosity-inducing botanical garden known for its romantic features.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Nantes.

Exploring the food culture in Nantes offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Enjoy a delicious meal at La Cigale, a highly-rated dining destination in Nantes. If you're eager to try something different, consider Le Bistro des Enfants Nantais, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at L'Abbaye de Villeneuve. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Nantes this evening.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Nantes and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Les Berthom, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Coffee House is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Bateau-lavoir also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in France!

Read more
Day5

Day 5

  • Nantes
  • Sainte-Luce-sur-Loire
  • La Chapelle-sur-Erdre
  • More

Drive 25 km, 1 hour 18 min

  • Le Lieu unique
  • Château des ducs de Bretagne
  • Botanical Garden
  • Park La Beaujoire
  • Parc de la Chantrerie
  • More

Your relaxed road trip in France continues on day 5 with more unforgettable memories to make. Today, you’ll get to know France better by exploring the top attractions of Nantes and beyond. With 1 night left in Nantes, you’ll still have time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

No visit to Nantes is complete without Le Lieu Unique. This increasingly popular cultural center is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Château Des Ducs De Bretagne, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Nantes, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Botanical Garden. This notable botanical garden is a traveler-favorite.

After soaking in Nantes’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Sainte-luce-sur-loire. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 14 min. When you arrive in Sainte-luce-sur-loire, it's time to take a break from the road.

Spend your afternoon discovering Park La Beaujoire, an often recommended park known for its mesmerizing features.

When you’ve had your share of Sainte-luce-sur-loire, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of La Chapelle-sur-Erdre. Your travel time is around 8 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Parc De La Chantrerie, a beloved park known for its romantic features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Nantes and your accommodation.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in France, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Nantes.

Savor the flavors at Le 1, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, L'instinct gourmand beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Le Macallan - Irish Pub Nantes. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Nantes tonight.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Nantes.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Bar Plein Sud, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. 4.44 Bar Lounge is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Délirium Café is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in France!

Read more
Day6

Day 6

  • Nantes
  • Sainte-Luce-sur-Loire
  • Vertou
  • La Rochelle
  • More

Drive 165 km, 3 hours 5 min

  • Île de Versailles (Nantes)
  • Grand Blotterau Parc
  • Parc de la Sèvre
  • More

Day 6 of your easy, relaxed road trip through France lets you travel at your own pace and visit multiple places in a single day. Begin by exploring the best sights in Nantes. By evening, drive toward the La Rochelle, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.

Visiting Île De Versailles (nantes) is always a good idea. This underrated park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike.

After soaking in Nantes’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Sainte-luce-sur-loire. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 11 min. When you arrive in Sainte-luce-sur-loire, it's time to take a break from the road.

Spend your afternoon discovering Grand Blotterau Parc, a curiosity-inducing park known for its romantic features.

Vertou’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Sainte-luce-sur-loire behind. This drive usually takes around 19 min. Vertou welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the day by heading to Parc De La Sèvre, an intriguing park that draws visitors from near and far.

You'll be staying in La Rochelle on this laid-back road trip through France. You'll stay here for 1 night.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, La Rochelle has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Savor the flavors at La Plage, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, LE JARDIN DU MARCHÉ beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Les copains d'abord. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in La Rochelle tonight.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in La Rochelle. The bars in La Rochelle make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Le Saint-nicolas Hôtel La Rochelle is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Académie De La Bière, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Lili La Rochelle. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across France.

Read more
Day7

Day 7

  • La Rochelle - Departure day
  • More
  • Grosse Horloge
  • More

Day 7 of your relaxed road trip in France is your departure day. If you’re flying home, return your rental car with time to spare. For a stress-free farewell, book a later flight and enjoy a final, relaxed day in La Rochelle.

Take advantage of your accommodation's proximity to La Rochelle’s shopping district for some last-minute bargain hunting. Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Grosse Horloge. This intriguing monument is a hotspot among locals.

Over a good meal, take a moment to unwind and reflect on the past 7 days of your relaxed road trip. Savor one last traditional dish in La Rochelle, or keep it light with a quick bite before you go.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Le Chat’Ren’Thé - CatCoffee & Restaurant, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Le Bistrot de Mémé? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to La Rochelle and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 7-day relaxed road trip in France is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.

Read more

How it works

Book your journey with Europe’s biggest travel platform—expert itineraries, instant confirmation, and full flexibility with 24/7 support.

Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

We guarantee

Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

Similar travel packages

Discover other popular vacations in France

Link to appstore phone
Install Europe’s biggest travel app

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.