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

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Description

Sit back and enjoy a relaxed 7-day road trip in France with this laid-back self-drive vacation.

This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in France at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in La Rochelle, Poitiers, Les Herbiers, Nantes, Rezé, Sainte-luce-sur-loire, La Chapelle-sur-Erdre, Vertou, and Clisson. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 3 nights in La Rochelle and 3 nights in Nantes. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in France.

Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in France. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in La Rochelle, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 7-day journey across France and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.

Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across France with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in France.

We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in France. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Puy Du Fou. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes.

Traveling leisurely through France means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Château Des Ducs De Bretagne. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.

Enjoy strolling through France's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in France.

Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in France. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through France's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the France.

This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through France. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 6 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 7 days of your self-drive road trip in France. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.

This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.

Spend an amazing 7-day vacation in France and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in France today!

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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Charruyer Park of La Rochelle
The machine Traveling in TimeDynamic VienneL'Extraordinaire VoyageLa Rochelle Aquarium
Gare des HerbiersMunicipal Park LandreauPuy du Fou
Jardin extraordinaire (Nantes)Machines of the Isle of NantesNatural History Museumparc de Procéparc de la GaudinièreBotanical Garden
Le Lieu uniqueChâteau des ducs de BretagneBotanical GardenPark La BeaujoireParc de la Chantrerie
Île de Versailles (Nantes)Grand Blotterau ParcParc de la SèvreBotanical Garden
Grosse Horloge

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Day 1

Day 1

  • La Rochelle - Arrival day
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  • Charruyer Park of La Rochelle
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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 or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in La Rochelle. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in France. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in La Rochelle.

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 gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in La Rochelle tonight.

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.

Continue your lively evening at Mac Ewan's Pub, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Le Cadre is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Le Plan B ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

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Day 2

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, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in La Rochelle and visit amazing attractions in Poitiers and La Rochelle destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 1 night left in La Rochelle. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Begin your adventure at La Rochelle Aquarium. This is a curiosity-inducing aquarium you should not miss.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Poitiers. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 39 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is The Machine Traveling In Time. Then, head to Dynamic Vienne. This often recommended sightseeing destination is a traveler-favorite in the city. Not far away, you’ll also find The Extraordinary Voyage. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the amusement park.

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

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 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.

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

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Le Dock Café, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Le Mary Lili is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, L'alibi also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of La Rochelle as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through France with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in France!

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Day 3

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

Day 3 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of France will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in France, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Les Herbiers. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await.

Set your GPS to Les Herbiers and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 26 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Les Herbiers beckons with new experiences!

Next, make your way to Municipal Park Landreau, another highlight in the town.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Les Herbiers and set your GPS to La Forge. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 17 min. Upon reaching La Forge, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Make your way to Puy Du Fou, an extraordinary amusement park that draws attention for its historic features.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Nantes. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation 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.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Nantes and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Le Chat Noir, known for its inviting atmosphere. Oceania Hôtel De France Nantes is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Bar Le Cercle Rouge Nantes provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in France!

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Day 4

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
  • Botanical Garden
  • More

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in France continues on day 4, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of France and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Nantes and beyond. With 2 nights left in Nantes, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Start by visiting Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes, a prime spot to begin your journey. This stunning art installation is sure to impress. Next on your list is Natural History Museum, another must-visit landmark and intriguing museum renowned for its standout features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Nantes by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Parc De Procé. This romantic park is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Parc De La Gaudinière also adds charm to your journey, and Botanical Garden wraps up your day with its eye-catching appeal.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Rezé, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Nantes to Rezé may take around 12 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Rezé, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Make your way to Jardin Extraordinaire (nantes), a worthwhile botanical garden that draws attention for its instagrammable 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at La Cigale, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Le Bistro des Enfants Nantais offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss L'Abbaye de Villeneuve. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Nantes.

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 Nantes. The bars in Nantes make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Les Berthom. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, The Coffee House offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Bateau-lavoir, another top-rated bar in the area.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in France!

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Day 5

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

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip across France, you’ll explore the area around Nantes, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. 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.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Nantes, including a cultural center and a castle. Start your day with a visit to Le Lieu Unique. This frequently visited cultural center is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Château Des Ducs De Bretagne, which may be one of the most picture-perfect places you will experience today.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Sainte-luce-sur-loire. This drive usually takes around 14 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Park La Beaujoire, a locally appreciated park known for its romantic features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, La Chapelle-sur-Erdre. This car ride takes around 8 min.

Make your way to Parc De La Chantrerie, an intriguing park that draws attention for its romantic features.

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

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Le 1, a top-rated dining spot in Nantes. If you're in the mood for something new, try L'instinct gourmand, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Le Macallan - Irish Pub Nantes. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Nantes.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Nantes’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in France.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Bar Plein Sud after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to 4.44 Bar Lounge, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Délirium Café also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in France!

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Day 6

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
  • Botanical Garden
  • More

Day 6 of your relaxed road trip across France promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the city of Nantes and drive in the direction of the town of Sainte-luce-sur-loire for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of La Rochelle, where you’ll stay for 1 night.

A blend of a charming, a serene, an awe-inspiring, an eye-catching, and a detailed await you in Nantes on today’s itinerary. First up is the underrated park, Île De Versailles (nantes). It's a standout spot that offers a memorable visit.

Set your GPS to Sainte-luce-sur-loire and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 11 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Sainte-luce-sur-loire beckons with new experiences!

Begin your journey at Grand Blotterau Parc and explore the noteworthy features.

Set your GPS to Vertou and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 19 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Vertou beckons with new experiences!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Parc De La Sèvre. Spend some time admiring the peaceful features of the park before you continue to your next stop.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in France at La Rochelle. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.

Exploring the food culture in La Rochelle 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.

Make sure to book a table at La Plage, a popular restaurant in La Rochelle. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of La Rochelle at LE JARDIN DU MARCHÉ, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Les copains d'abord. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to 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.

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.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in France!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • La Rochelle - Departure day
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  • Grosse Horloge
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Day 7 of your relaxed road trip in France is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in La Rochelle.

Maximize your last day in France and go on a shopping spree in La Rochelle’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in France.

If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in La Rochelle is the remarkable Grosse Horloge. This monument and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 441 visitors.

Unwind and look back at the past 7 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in La Rochelle or just grab something light to keep you going.

Savor the flavors at Le Chat’Ren’Thé - CatCoffee & Restaurant, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Le Bistrot de Mémé beckons with its unique menu offerings.

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.

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