One-Week Relaxed France Road Trip from Bordeaux to Nantes
Description
Summary
Description
Discover France stress-free with this 8-day relaxed road trip, winding through Bordeaux, Lormont, Merignac, Le Bouscat, La Roche Sur Yon, Nantes, Rezé, Sainte-luce-sur-loire, La Chapelle-sur-Erdre, Vertou, and Clisson. Enjoy a relaxing self-drive holiday through stunning landscapes and calm adventures.
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 Bordeaux, Lormont, Merignac, Le Bouscat, La Roche Sur Yon, Nantes, Rezé, Sainte-luce-sur-loire, La Chapelle-sur-Erdre, Vertou, and Clisson. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 4 nights in Bordeaux, 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 Bordeaux, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 8-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 Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating La Cité Du Vin.
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 7 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 8 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 8-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!
Included
Destinations
Map
Attractions
FlightsYesNo
Travel details
Flights
CarYesNo
Hotels
Personalize your itinerary
Day 1 – Bordeaux - arrival day
- Bordeaux - Arrival day
- More
- Monument aux Girondins
- More
Your relaxed road trip through France starts when you reach the incredible city of Bordeaux, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Bordeaux and begin your adventure in France.
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Monument Aux Girondins. This column is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Bordeaux, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,483 visitors.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Bordeaux. 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.
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 Bordeaux.
Don’t miss out on dining at Le Cent 33, a top-rated dining destination in Bordeaux. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Le Clemenceau, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at L'Oiseau Bleu. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bordeaux this evening.
Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Bordeaux.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Café Brun, known for its lively atmosphere. Le Mushroom Café is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Whose Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
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 Bordeaux as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.
Day 2 – Bordeaux, and Lormont
- Bordeaux
- Lormont
- More
Drive 12 km, 57 min
- Porte Cailhau
- Place de la Bourse
- Miroir d'eau
- Cité du Vin
- Base sous-marine
- More
On day 2 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Bordeaux and visit amazing attractions in Bordeaux, and Lormont destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 2 nights left in Bordeaux. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.
A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Porte Cailhau. Previous visitors have rated this city gate an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 4,609 reviews.
Place De La Bourse is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 16,251 reviews.
Another attraction you won't want to miss is Miroir D'eau. This reflecting pool is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 14,462 reviews.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Lormont. This car ride takes around 9 min.
Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like La Cité Du Vin. This extraordinary museum has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 21,487 visitors.
Next, make your way to Betasom. This submarine base is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,804 reviews.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Bordeaux.
Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Bordeaux has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.
Savor the flavors at Restaurant Soléna, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Hôtel De Sèze beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Locadillos. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bordeaux tonight.
A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Bordeaux.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Grizzly Pub offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Bordeaux. The Dog And Duck is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Bordeaux!
Day 3 – Bordeaux, Merignac, and Le Bouscat
- Bordeaux
- Mérignac
- Le Bouscat
- More
Drive 17 km, 1 hour 8 min
- Parc de Bourran
- Parc Bordelais
- Cathédrale Saint-André de Bordeaux
- Grosse Cloche
- Porte de Bourgogne
- More
On day 3 of your relaxed road trip across France, you’ll explore the area around Merignac, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Merignac will make you fall even more in love with the town and uniqueness of France.
When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Bordeaux Cathedral. This much-appreciated catholic cathedral is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 10,591 reviews.
Next up is The Big Bell Of Bordeaux. This bell tower has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,871 visitors.
Another top sightseeing recommendation is Porte De Bourgogne. This point of interest has been rated 4.2 out of 5 stars in 5,953 reviews.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Merignac, 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 Bordeaux to Merignac may take around 17 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Merignac, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Parc De Bourran. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,592 reviews.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Merignac, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Le Bouscat. This drive usually takes around 13 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Parc Bordelais. This urban park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,855 visitors.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Bordeaux and your accommodation.
Exploring the food culture in Bordeaux 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.
Don’t miss out on dining at Restaurant Le Plana, a top-rated dining destination in Bordeaux. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Le Confidentiel, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Loco By Jem's. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bordeaux this evening.
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 Bordeaux. The bars in Bordeaux make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Casey's Pub, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Le Bar À Vin provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Thecity offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in France!
Day 4 – Bordeaux, La Trezanne, La Roche Sur Yon, and Nantes
- Nantes
- La Roche-sur-Yon
- More
Drive 365 km, 3 hours 58 min
Day 4 of your relaxed road trip across France promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the hamlet of La Trezanne and drive in the direction of the town of La Roche Sur Yon for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Nantes, where you’ll stay for 3 nights.
When you’ve had your share of Bordeaux, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of La Trezanne. Your travel time is around 2 hours 44 min.
A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is The Potager Extraordinaire. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 372 reviews.
When you’ve had your share of La Trezanne, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of La Roche Sur Yon. Your travel time is around 12 min.
When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Le Jardin De La Mairie. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.2 out of 5 stars in 279 reviews.
Next up is The Animal Place - Le Crocodile. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,067 visitors.
Another top sightseeing recommendation is Chocolate Museum Gelencser. This museum has been rated 4.1 out of 5 stars in 1,128 reviews.
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.
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 Nantes, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.
Don’t miss out on dining 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 La Cigale. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Nantes this evening.
After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Le Chat Noir, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Oceania Hôtel De France Nantes offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Bar Le Cercle Rouge Nantes provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Soak in the unique atmosphere of Nantes 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!
Day 5 – Nantes, and Rezé
- Nantes
- Rezé
- More
Drive 13 km, 1 hour 2 min
- Botanical Garden
- Château des ducs de Bretagne
- Le Lieu unique
- Jardin Extraordinaire
- Parc de Procé
- More
Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in France continues on day 5, 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.
Kick off the day at Botanical Garden, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 14,694 reviews.
Today is also your chance to visit Château Des Ducs De Bretagne. Château Des Ducs De Bretagne is a museum with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 18,724 reviews. Attracting more than 167,867 yearly visitors, this place of interest is an attraction you don’t want to miss out on.
Le Lieu Unique is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 5,945 visitors.
Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Parc De Procé. This urban park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,256 visitors.
After soaking in Nantes’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Rezé. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 9 min. When you arrive in Rezé, it's time to take a break from the road.
When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Jardin Extraordinaire (nantes). This much-appreciated urban park is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in 3,025 reviews.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Nantes.
When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Nantes, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Le Bistro des Enfants Nantais, a highly-rated dining destination in Nantes. If you're eager to try something different, consider Le 1, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at L'instinct gourmand. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Nantes this evening.
If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in France.
Keep the evening going at Les Berthom, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Coffee House, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Bateau-lavoir, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in France!
Day 6 – Nantes, Sainte-luce-sur-loire, and La Chapelle-sur-Erdre
- Nantes
- Sainte-Luce-sur-Loire
- La Chapelle-sur-Erdre
- More
Drive 31 km, 1 hour 20 min
- Les Machines de l'Île
- Natural History Museum
- Parc de la Gaudinière
- Park La Beaujoire
- More
On day 6 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Nantes and visit amazing attractions in Nantes, Sainte-luce-sur-loire, and La Chapelle-sur-Erdre destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 1 night left in Nantes. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.
Be one of the day’s first visitors at Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes. This art project is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 33,332 visitors.
When you’re finished at Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes, head to Natural History Museum. This one-of-a-kind library is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 2,896 reviews.
Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Parc De La Gaudinière. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,417 visitors.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Sainte-luce-sur-loire, 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 Sainte-luce-sur-loire may take around 13 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Sainte-luce-sur-loire, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Be one of the day’s first visitors at Park La Beaujoire. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,085 visitors.
Set your GPS to La Chapelle-sur-Erdre and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 8 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. La Chapelle-sur-Erdre beckons with new experiences!
Kick off the day at Parc De La Chantrerie, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,457 reviews.
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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Le Macallan - Irish Pub Nantes, an iconic dining spot in Nantes. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Le Bouchon, a popular restaurant in Nantes. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Suraj Restaurant indien pakistanais, a hidden gem nestled in Nantes. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
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 Bar Plein Sud, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. 4.44 Bar Lounge is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Délirium Café ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across France.
Day 7 – Nantes, Sainte-luce-sur-loire, Vertou, Clisson, and Bordeaux
- Bordeaux
- Nantes
- Sainte-Luce-sur-Loire
- Vertou
- Clisson
- More
Drive 373 km, 4 hours 30 min
- Ile de Versailles
- Grand Blotterau Parc
- More
Day 7 of your easy and relaxed road trip through France gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the city of Nantes. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Bordeaux, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Île De Versailles (nantes). This river island is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,112 visitors.
Sainte-luce-sur-loire’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Nantes behind. This drive usually takes around 11 min. Sainte-luce-sur-loire welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Drop by the renowned Grand Blotterau Parc. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,157 visitors.
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!
Journey into the unknown at Parc De La Sèvre, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,222 reviews.
You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Bordeaux in this laid-back road trip in France. You'll stay here for 1 night.
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 JAQEN CRAFT BEER, a top-rated dining spot in Bordeaux. If you're in the mood for something new, try Arcada, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Le Mirabelle. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bordeaux.
If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Bordeaux and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Lord Lion Bar Pub is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Bar Notre Dame, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is L'engrenage. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across France.
Day 8 – Bordeaux - departure day
- Bordeaux - Departure day
- More
- Jardin Public
- More
Day 8 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 Bordeaux.
As your final day in France unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Bordeaux's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to 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 Bordeaux is the remarkable Jardin Public. This urban park and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 12,341 visitors.
Unwind and look back at the past 8 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Bordeaux or just grab something light to keep you going.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Le Comptoir Des Chats (enfants à partir de 10 ans), highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Chez Dupont? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.
Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Bordeaux and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 8-day relaxed road trip in France is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.
Similar travel packages
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.