7-Day France Road Trip from La Rochelle traveling south to Perigueux, Cahors, Carcassonne, and Bordeaux

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 1 night 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 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.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in La Rochelle. 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 La Rochelle. 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 La Boussole, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant Les Flots? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Palem Café as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in La Rochelle.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Mac Ewan's Pub after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Le Plan B for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Le Dock Café is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in France!

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, La Rochelle, and Saint-Émilion. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Perigueux, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Kick off the day at Musée Maritime De La Rochelle, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,865 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit La Rochelle Aquarium. La Rochelle Aquarium is an aquarium with an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 6,656 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to La Rochelle, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Saint-Émilion. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 10 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Monolithic Church Of Saint-emilion, a remarkable church where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,946 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Perigueux, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the town.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Perigueux. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

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

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 Martel, Padirac, Rocamadour, Lacave, and Chez Langle. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cahors, where you will stay for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Perigueux, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Martel may take around 1 hour 17 min. Upon your arrival in Martel, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready to see some sights, Railway Tourist Haut Quercy is a great place to start. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,626 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Padirac, 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 Martel to Padirac may take around 27 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Padirac, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Padirac Cave. This extraordinary pit cave is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 25,172 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Cahors, 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 Cahors. 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.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Figeac, and Montauban. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Carcassonne. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Figeac, 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 Cahors to Figeac may take around 50 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Figeac, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Causses Du Quercy Natural Regional Park. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 10,949 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Montauban. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 20 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Make Place Nationale your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this square an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 3,209 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Port Canal. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,642 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this sightseeing destination every year.

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 Carcassonne. Carcassonne 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 Carcassonne, 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 Brasserie a 4 Temps, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? La Rapière offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Domaine d'Auriac. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Carcassonne.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Carcassonne, and Toulouse, 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.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Château Comtal. This much-appreciated castle is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,823 reviews.

Next up is Cité De Carcassonne. This fortress has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 76,968 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Carcassonne and set your GPS to Toulouse. 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 1 hour 3 min. Upon reaching Toulouse, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Jardin Des Plantes. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Toulouse, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 9,847 visitors.

Basilica Of St. Sernin is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,287 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Bordeaux, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Le Cent 33, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Le Clemenceau? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at L'Oiseau Bleu as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick 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 Café Brun, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Le Mushroom Café. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Whose Bar, another top-rated place in the area.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Bordeaux, and Lormont. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in La Rochelle, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Journey into the unknown at Bordeaux Cathedral, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 10,591 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Place De La Bourse is a recommended place to visit. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 16,251 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Bordeaux is Miroir D'eau. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 14,462 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Bordeaux offers an experience you will remember.

Jardin Public is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Bordeaux. This urban park promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.6 out of 5 stars in 12,341 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Lormont. This car ride takes around 10 min.

Take the opportunity to see La Cité Du Vin. This attraction has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 21,487 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to La Rochelle, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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 Christopher Coutanceau, 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 Le Chat’Ren’Thé - CatCoffee & Restaurant, 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 your lively evening at Le Mary Lili, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. L'alibi is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Le Saint-nicolas Hôtel La Rochelle ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

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.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

Journey into the unknown at Grosse Horloge, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable city gate has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 441 reviews.

Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in La Rochelle.

Savor the flavors at Le Bistrot de Mémé, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, The Famous Pub beckons with its unique menu offerings.

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!