7-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from La Rochelle traveling south to Perigueux, Toulouse, and Bordeaux

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

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in La Rochelle, featuring family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Musée Maritime De La Rochelle, a locally appreciated maritime museum in the city. Then, head to La Rochelle Aquarium and soak in the ambiance of this picture-perfect aquarium.

There are many interesting places to see in La Rochelle, and when you are ready for more, go to Monolithic Church Of Saint-emilion. This is one of the city’s most worthwhile majestic spots of interest.

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

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Perigueux's best restaurants.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Le Bel'Art in Perigueux by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its Bib Gourmand status, Le Bel'Art offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious traditional menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore L'Essentiel, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at La Table du Pouyaud, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern menu.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Padirac and Gourdon, 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 Toulouse. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots in Perigueux. Begin your sightseeing with Railway Tourist Haut Quercy. This worthwhile heritage railway is one of the top attractions in the village. Proceed to Padirac Cave, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Perigueux, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Animal Park Of Gramat. This worthwhile zoo is a traveler-favorite.

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

As you explore more of Toulouse, 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.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Stéphane Tournié - Les Jardins de l'Opéra in Toulouse by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Stéphane Tournié - Les Jardins de l'Opéra delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Py-r, acclaimed for its delectable modern specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Hedone, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for creative cuisine in the city.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Moloko, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, The Botanist Pub offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Melting Pot Pub provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!

Greet day 4 of your road trip in France with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Toulouse 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 Carcassonne and Toulouse.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Whether you decide to explore Toulouse on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Château Comtal is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this culturally significant castle before continuing your journey. Cité De Carcassonne is your next stop. This impressive castle is one of the best-rated sights in Toulouse.

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 Basilique Saint Nazaire. This enchanting church is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Jardin Des Plantes and Pont-neuf.

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

As you explore more of Toulouse, 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 wonderful meal at La Faim des Haricots/TOULOUSE CENTRE VILLE, a top-rated dining spot in Toulouse. If you're in the mood for something new, try Madame Bovary, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Au Pois Gourmand restaurant gastronomique. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Toulouse.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Pub O'clock, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. La Loupiote is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Café Populaire is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Toulouse and Blagnac. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bordeaux, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Toulouse. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Basilica Of St. Sernin is the perfect place to start. This church is one of the most notable places to visit in Toulouse. Next, head to Couvent Des Jacobins, an often recommended monastery, known for its historic features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Place Saint-pierre. This romantic public square is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Musée Aeroscopia. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Bordeaux. Bordeaux 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 Bordeaux. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Begin your culinary exploration in Bordeaux by securing a reservation at Ressources. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Le Pressoir d'Argent - Gordon Ramsay, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover La Grand'Vigne - Les Sources de Caudalie, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Café Brun offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Le Mushroom Café is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Whose Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

On day 6 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 Bordeaux and Lormont. In the evening, you’ll end up in La Rochelle, where you will stay for 1 night.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views await you in Bordeaux on today’s itinerary. First up is the well-known public square, Place De La Bourse. Afterward, continue to Miroir D'eau, an art installation every traveler should visit.

As you explore Bordeaux’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Jardin Public. This well-known park is an essential stop. Following that, head to La Cité Du Vin, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

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.

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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in La Rochelle by securing a table at L'Hysope. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional creative and modern menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Christopher Coutanceau, famous for its scrumptious seafood and modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Le Dock Café. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Le Mary Lili, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, L'alibi provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.