7-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from La Rochelle traveling east to Cognac, Sarlat La Caneda, and Tours

On day 2 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 La Rochelle and Cognac. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cognac, where you will stay for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. Start at the underrated Saint Louis Cathedral, a respected church in La Rochelle. Next, go to La Rochelle Aquarium.

After visiting Saint Louis Cathedral and La Rochelle Aquarium, take time to explore La Rochelle's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Musée Maritime De La Rochelle. This standout maritime museum offers a unique experience. Musée Des Savoir-faire Du Cognac is another noteworthy stop. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Hennessy, one of the most historic places to visit in La Rochelle.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Cognac. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Cognac's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Montignac-Lascaux, La Falgueyrade, and Sarlat La Caneda. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Sarlat La Caneda, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Cognac, featuring family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. Start at Lascaux International Center Of Parietal Art, a captivating museum in the village. Then, head to Lascaux and soak in the ambiance of this picture-perfect cave.

There are many interesting places to see in Cognac and when you are ready for more, go to La Forêt Des Écureuils. This is one of the village’s most intriguing spots. After exploring the adventure park, visit the increasingly popular Manor Gisson.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Sarlat La Caneda. Sarlat La Caneda offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Sarlat La Caneda. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Say good night to Sarlat La Caneda and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Sarlat La Caneda, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at the worthwhile Airparc Périgord, a stunning adventure park in Sarlat La Caneda. Next, go to Château De Beynac.

After visiting Airparc Périgord and Château De Beynac, take time to explore Sarlat La Caneda's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to The Marqueyssac Gardens. This history-steeped botanical garden offers a unique experience. Castelnaud-la-chapelle Castle is another noteworthy stop. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Grotte De Domme, one of the most enchanting places to visit in Sarlat La Caneda.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Sarlat La Caneda. 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.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

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 Blois. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Tours, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Start your adventure at Château De Chambord. This locally renowned castle is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the history-steeped wonders of Château De Blois, a must-see castle in the town.

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 Château De Chenonceau. This well-known castle offers an enriching experience.

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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Tours. 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.

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.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Cave À Vins Et À Bières Vins Sur 20, Bar Et Soirées À Thème, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Piraat Cafe Tours offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Tours. L'alexandra is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Tours and Poitiers. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in La Rochelle. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Whether you decide to explore Tours on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Prébendes D'oé Garden is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this romantic park before continuing your journey. Jardin Botanique De Tours is your next stop. This intriguing botanical garden is one of the best-rated sights in Tours.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Vieux Tours. This romantic street is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Tours Cathedral and Poitiers Cathedral.

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.

As you explore more of La Rochelle, 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.

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.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Le Dock Café, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Le Mary Lili provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, L'alibi offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Head back to your accommodation in La Rochelle and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!