One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bordeaux to Pau, Bayonne, Angouleme, and Nantes and surrounding area

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Description

Explore the best of France on a 8-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Bordeaux, Le Bouscat, Lormont, Aspin-en-Lavedan, Lourdes, Gez, Pau, Bayonne, Biarritz, Angouleme, Nantes, Rezé, and Sainte-luce-sur-loire. This road trip itinerary in France seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in France takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Bordeaux, 1 night in Pau, 1 night in Bayonne, 1 night in Angouleme, and 1 night in Nantes. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!

With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in France. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.

Upon arriving in Bordeaux, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover France on your own terms.

An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in France. Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes and Château Des Ducs De Bretagne are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Place De La Bourse, learn more about the unique Le Train De La Rhune, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Botanical Garden.

As you hit the open road and drive through Bordeaux, Le Bouscat, Lormont, Aspin-en-Lavedan, Lourdes, Gez, Pau, Bayonne, Biarritz, Angouleme, Nantes, Rezé, and Sainte-luce-sur-loire, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of France. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in France.

Throughout your road trip in France, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in France.

This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.

The best services in France fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in France today!

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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
jardin public
place de la Boursemiroir d'eauBordeaux Cathedral
funiculaire du pic du JerPont d'EspagneAnimal Park of the Pyrenees
Grottes de BétharramSanctuary of Our Lady of LourdesBasilica of Our Lady of the RosaryBasilica of St. Pius X
Rocher de la viergeBiarritz AquariumLe Train de La Rhune
Natural History MuseumMachines of the Isle of NantesJardin extraordinaire (Nantes)parc de Procé
Île de Versailles (Nantes)Grand Blotterau ParcBotanical GardenChâteau des ducs de Bretagne
Monument aux Girondins

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Bordeaux - Arrival day
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  • jardin public
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Your road trip adventure in France begins as soon as you reach Bordeaux and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Bordeaux for 2 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Bordeaux 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 Jardin Public or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Bordeaux. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime 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 Bordeaux, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Le Cent 33, a top-rated dining spot in Bordeaux. If you're in the mood for something new, try L'Originel, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Le Clemenceau. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bordeaux.

Keep the evening going at Café Brun, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Le Mushroom Café, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Whose Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in France!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Bordeaux
  • More

Drive 17 km, 1 hour 3 min

  • place de la Bourse
  • miroir d'eau
  • Bordeaux Cathedral
  • More

Day 2 of your road trip across France promises a magnificent time exploring Le Bouscat. You have 1 night left in Bordeaux. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at the locally renowned Place De La Bourse, a visually striking public square in Bordeaux. Next, go to Miroir D'eau.

After visiting Place De La Bourse and Miroir D'eau, take time to explore Bordeaux's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Bordeaux Cathedral. This grand church offers a unique experience.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. France is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at L'Oiseau Bleu, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurant Soléna is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Hôtel De Sèze. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bordeaux tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Grizzly Pub is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, The Dog And Duck also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Bordeaux
  • Aspin-en-Lavedan
  • Argelès-Gazost
  • Gez
  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques
  • More

Drive 383 km, 5 hours 17 min

  • funiculaire du pic du Jer
  • Pont d'Espagne
  • Animal Park of the Pyrenees
  • More

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Aspin-en-Lavedan, Lourdes, and Gez. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Pau, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today's adventure in Aspin-en-Lavedan promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences!

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bordeaux, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Aspin-en-Lavedan. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 39 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Funiculaire Du Pic Du Jer is an underrated tramway we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its awe-inspiring features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Aspin-en-Lavedan and set your GPS to Lourdes. 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 52 min. Upon reaching Lourdes, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Spend your afternoon discovering Pont D'espagne, an underrated waterfall known for its awe-inspiring features.

After soaking in Lourdes’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Gez. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 40 min. When you arrive in Gez, it's time to take a break from the road.

Begin your journey at Animal Park Of The Pyrenees and explore the picturesque features.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Le Henri IV, a popular restaurant in Pau. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Pau at Le Garage, 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 Au Fin Gourmet. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Pau tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Snug, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Winfield Café is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, The Galway also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques
  • Argelès-Gazost
  • Lourdes
  • Bayonne
  • More

Drive 191 km, 2 hours 32 min

  • Grottes de Bétharram
  • Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes
  • Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary
  • Basilica of St. Pius X
  • More

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Lourdes, 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 Bayonne. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Pau, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Lourdes may take around 35 min. Upon your arrival in Lourdes, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Your self-guided tour starts at Grottes De Bétharram, an up-and-coming cave system that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

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

Head to Sanctuary Of Our Lady Of Lourdes, an underrated church in Lourdes. Explore its monumental features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Rosary. This locally appreciated church is a top recommendation in the area. When you’re ready to explore more, Basilica Of St. Pius X is an excellent choice.

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 Bayonne. Bayonne 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 Bayonne, 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 delicious meal at JANINE, a highly-rated dining destination in Bayonne. If you're eager to try something different, consider Josie Factory, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Belzunce. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bayonne this evening.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Dame Jeanne, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Café Des Pyrénées provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Kubata & Kukubat offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Bayonne
  • Biarritz
  • Angoulême
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Drive 369 km, 4 hours 40 min

  • Rocher de la vierge
  • Biarritz Aquarium
  • Le Train de La Rhune
  • More

On day 5 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 Biarritz and Bayonne. In the evening, you’ll end up in Angouleme, where you will stay for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Biarritz today.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Biarritz.

Spend your afternoon discovering Rocher De La Vierge, an interesting rock formation known for its awe-inspiring features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Biarritz Aquarium, an interesting aquarium that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region.

After soaking in Bayonne’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Angouleme. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 3 hours 40 min. When you arrive in Angouleme, it's time to take a break from the road.

Take your self-guided tour to Le Train De La Rhune, a notable heritage railway that everyone visiting Bayonne should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

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

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

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Angoulême
  • Nantes
  • Rezé
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Drive 288 km, 3 hours 32 min

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

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 - Nantes and Rezé. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Nantes. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Nantes, 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 Angouleme to Nantes may take around 3 hours 2 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Nantes, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your journey at Natural History Museum and explore the instagrammable features. Next, make your way to Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes, another highlight in the city. When you’re done exploring the art installation, continue to Parc De Procé, an instagrammable park.

Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Rezé.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Jardin Extraordinaire (nantes). Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the botanical garden before you continue to your next stop.

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

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

Dine in style at Gigg's Irish Pub, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, L'Aménité - Restaurant Nantes boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Le Parallèle. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Nantes.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Le Chat Noir, known for its lively atmosphere. Oceania Hôtel De France Nantes is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Bar Le Cercle Rouge Nantes offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Nantes
  • Sainte-Luce-sur-Loire
  • Bordeaux
  • More

Drive 357 km, 3 hours 48 min

  • Île de Versailles (Nantes)
  • Grand Blotterau Parc
  • Botanical Garden
  • Château des ducs de Bretagne
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Nantes and Sainte-luce-sur-loire. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bordeaux, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Nantes allows for both. Start by heading to Île De Versailles (nantes). This intriguing park provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Botanical Garden, a mesmerizing botanical garden, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Château Des Ducs De Bretagne, a locally renowned castle.

Sainte-luce-sur-loire welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Make your way to Grand Blotterau Parc, an increasingly popular park that draws attention for its eye-catching features.

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 Bordeaux. Bordeaux 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 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Locadillos, an iconic dining spot in Bordeaux. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurant Le Plana, a popular restaurant in Bordeaux. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Blind, a hidden gem nestled in Bordeaux. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Keep the evening going at Casey's Pub, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Le Bar À Vin, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Thecity, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Bordeaux - Departure day
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  • Monument aux Girondins
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Day 8 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Bordeaux before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Maximize your last day in France and go on a shopping spree in Bordeaux’s shopping center, the lively Les Grands Hommes. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in France. Discover boutiques with stylish fashion choices to upgrade your wardrobe. You can also explore high-end shops for luxury items.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Start at the increasingly popular Monument Aux Girondins, a culturally significant monument in Bordeaux.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Le Confidentiel, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Le Chicoula Bistrot d'art offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Loco By Jem's.

You’ll then say farewell to Bordeaux. 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!

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