One-Week Relaxed France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bordeaux to Bayonne

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Photo of Place de la Bourse in Bordeaux, France.
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Enjoy this 8-day relaxed road trip in France, with Bordeaux, Le Bouscat, Lormont, Rochefort, Gujan-Mestras, La Teste-de-Buch, Arcachon, Bayonne, Biarritz, Hendaye, and Saint Jean De Luz showing you the beauty, culture, and peaceful moments that make this journey special!

Travel freely with this relaxed self-drive package in France, designed for comfort and exploration. Spend 5 nights in Bordeaux and 2 nights in Bayonne, staying at top-rated hotels near the heart of each city. Between drives, indulge in local cuisine, sip refreshing drinks, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in France.

Your journey starts in Bordeaux, where your rental car with CDW insurance will be ready for pickup. Choose a vehicle that suits your style, then set off on your 8-day relaxed road trip in France to explore its rich culture, fascinating history, and stunning landscapes.

Every stop on this leisurely self-drive holiday comes with handpicked accommodations that make relaxation effortless. Choose from elegant 5-star hotels with breathtaking views or comfortable 3-star stays that offer excellent value, all providing a welcoming retreat after a day on the road.

With your self-drive itinerary in France already planned, you’ll enjoy the country’s most celebrated sights without the rush. Marvel at the stunning Dune Of Pilat and soak in the atmosphere of the magnificent La Cité Du Vin.

Enjoy each stop as you explore the history, architecture, and character of each destination on this France road trip itinerary for 8 days.

As you travel between destinations, you’ll have plenty of time to explore local markets and boutique shops. These stops give you the chance to find unique souvenirs, taste regional specialties, and experience everyday life in France.

If you want to make your 8-day relaxed self-drive tour in France even more memorable, add optional tours or activities. Join a guided excursion, discover hidden neighborhoods, or spend an afternoon in your favorite market. Each choice deepens your connection to the places you visit.

Alongside these experiences, your laid-back self-drive package in France includes 7 nights in comfortable hotels, a rental car for 8 days, and convenient access to nearby dining options. You can also add flights and entry tickets to shape the trip exactly how you want it. With 24/7 travel support and a mobile app keeping your itinerary and documents organized, you can enjoy a relaxed drive and savor every mile of the road ahead.

Turn your travel plans into reality. Book your 8-day relaxed self-drive road trip in France today and enjoy a journey filled with discovery, freedom, and unforgettable moments!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Pick-up: 10:00
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Day1

Day 1

  • Bordeaux - Arrival day
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  • Monument aux Girondins
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Your relaxed road trip through France starts when you reach the incredible city of Bordeaux, where you'll stay for 4 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Bordeaux and begin your adventure in France.

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 Monument Aux Girondins. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

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 central location for easy access to key areas in the city.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Le Cent 33, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, L'Originel offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Le Clemenceau is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bordeaux.

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.

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

Raise a toast as you look back on the highlights of today’s relaxed road trip in France. Enjoy your first taste of Bordeaux as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

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Day2

Day 2

  • Bordeaux
  • More

Drive 16 km, 59 min

  • parc bordelais
  • Porte Cailhau
  • place de la Bourse
  • miroir d'eau
  • Cité du Vin
  • More

On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across France, you’ll go deep into Le Bouscat, where you'll stay for 3 nights, and see some of the town’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the town's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Le Bouscat, and meet locals along the way!

Let Parc Bordelais set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this instagrammable park before continuing your journey. Porte Cailhau is your next stop. This beloved monument is one of the best-rated sights in Bordeaux.

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 Place De La Bourse. This history-steeped public square is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Miroir D'eau and La Cité Du Vin.

France makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun road trip experience. Aside from amazing sights, France also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

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 Bordeaux.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Ressources in Bordeaux by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Ressources delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Le Pressoir d'Argent - Gordon Ramsay, 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 La Grand'Vigne - Les Sources de Caudalie, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 2-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for modern cuisine in the city.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Bordeaux. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to The Grizzly Pub. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at The Dog And Duck, another top-rated place in the area.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible, relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Bordeaux!

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Day3

Day 3

  • Bordeaux
  • More

Drive 4 km, 38 min

  • Basilica of St. Michael, Bordeaux
  • Porte de Bourgogne
  • The big bell of Bordeaux
  • Bordeaux Cathedral
  • Rue Sainte-Catherine
  • More

Day 3 of your relaxed road trip through France means 24 hours of making the best memories in Bordeaux. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Bordeaux. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Bordeaux!

Rue Sainte-Catherine is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic street in Bordeaux, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the city.

Enjoy all that Basilica Of St. Michael, Bordeaux has to offer. This is an up-and-coming church you should not miss. Another must-see is Porte De Bourgogne, an underrated monument in Bordeaux.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to The Big Bell Of Bordeaux. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Bordeaux Cathedral, another of the city’s popular attractions.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across France by joining a traveler-approved tour in Bordeaux. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Bordeaux that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in France more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Bordeaux to find the best options for you!

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Locadillos, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Restaurant Le Plana offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Blind is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bordeaux.

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.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Casey's Pub is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Le Bar À Vin, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Thecity. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in France!

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Day4

Day 4

  • Bordeaux
  • More

Drive 320 km, 3 hours 46 min

  • Pont Transbordeur
  • Place Colbert
  • Musée des Commerces d'autrefois
  • Association Hermione La Fayette
  • More

On day 4 of your relaxed road trip in France, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Bordeaux and visit amazing attractions in Rochefort, just outside the city. You still have 1 night left in Bordeaux, so today is another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Whether you decide to explore Rochefort on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

Pont Transbordeur is must-visit historical landmark and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Place Colbert, a curiosity-inducing public square, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Musée Des Commerces D'autrefois, an eye-catching museum, also available for your discovery today.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Bordeaux 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 Bordeaux.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Le Confidentiel, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Le Chicoula Bistrot d'art? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Loco By Jem's as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bordeaux.

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.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Lord Lion Bar Pub, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bar Notre Dame is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, L'engrenage also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in France!

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Day5

Day 5

  • Bordeaux
  • Bayonne
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Drive 267 km, 3 hours 29 min

  • Lac de la Magdeleine
  • Beach of La Hume
  • Parc Mauresque
  • Observatoire Sainte-Cécile
  • Dune of Pilat
  • More

Day 5 of your relaxed road trip in France will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in France, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

Make a stop at Lac De La Magdeleine. This up-and-coming lake is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Beach Of La Hume located in Bordeaux for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Parc Mauresque. Its romantic features will captivate you. After the park, continue your tour of the town with a visit to Observatoire Sainte-cécile. Visitors usually appreciate the enchanting features of this observation deck. Next up is Dune Of Pilat, a highly recommended sand dunes.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you can relax in Bayonne. Here, you can choose from the best hotels and other accommodations as you get to know more about the culture in the town.

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 Bayonne.

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

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 savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Dame Jeanne, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Café Des Pyrénées offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Bayonne. Kubata & Kukubat is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in France!

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Day6

Day 6

  • Bayonne
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Drive 113 km, 2 hours 33 min

  • Chambre D'Amour Playground
  • Abbadia Castle
  • Fort du Socoa
  • Le Train de La Rhune
  • Caves of Sare
  • More

Your relaxed road trip in France continues on day 6 with more unforgettable memories to make. Today, you’ll get to know France better by exploring the top attractions of Bayonne and beyond. With 1 night left in Bayonne, you’ll still have time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the town.

Chambre D'amour Playground makes a great addition to your morning plans. This underrated playground is an awe-inspiring place to see in Bayonne. Continue your discovery at Abbadia Castle, a stunning castle with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Bayonne, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Fort Du Socoa. This frequently visited castle offers an enchanting encounter with Bayonne. Next, make your way to Le Train De La Rhune to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Caves Of Sare, an up-and-coming cave system that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Bayonne.

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

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 Bayonne, explore the town like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Le Victor Hugo, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Bar Remy offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Restaurant La Grange is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bayonne.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Bayonne.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at La Karafe, a top-rated bar in the area.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back road trip adventure across France.

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Day7

Day 7

  • Bayonne
  • Bordeaux
  • More

Drive 209 km, 2 hours 55 min

  • Bayonne Cathedral
  • Sainte-Eugénie Church of Biarritz
  • Biarritz Aquarium
  • Rocher de la vierge
  • More

Day 7 of your self-drive tour in France offers a chance to experience the country’s diversity. You’ll start your day in Bayonne and end it in Bordeaux. You’ll stay in Bordeaux for 1 night. Along the way, you’ll glimpse local life and explore some of the most remarkable places in France.

Check out the beloved church, Bayonne Cathedral. Afterward, continue to Sainte-eugénie Church Of Biarritz, a church every traveler should visit. As you explore Bayonne’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town.

Next, make your way to Biarritz Aquarium. This interesting aquarium is an essential stop. Following that, head to Rocher De La Vierge, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

Continue your laid-back road trip in France as you make your way to Bordeaux. Here, you’ll find top hotels and accommodations in the city, perfect for relaxing and recharging.

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 Bordeaux, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at JAQEN CRAFT BEER, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Arcada offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Mirabelle. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bordeaux.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Bordeaux.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to La Comtesse, known for its inviting atmosphere. The Cock And Bull is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, The Houses Of Parliament provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in France!

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Day8

Day 8

  • Bordeaux - Departure day
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  • jardin public
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Day 8 of your relaxed road trip in France is your departure day. If you’re flying home, return your rental car with time to spare. For a stress-free farewell, book a later flight and enjoy a final, relaxed day in Bordeaux.

Make the most of your final day in France by visiting Bordeaux’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Les Grands Hommes. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing vacation. You can also browse through boutiques for stylish fashion choices. Elevate your style with pieces from high-end retail stores.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Jardin Public. This captivating park is a hotspot among locals.

Over a good meal, take a moment to unwind and reflect on the past 8 days of your relaxed road trip. Savor one last traditional dish in Bordeaux, or keep it light with a quick bite before you go.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Le Comptoir Des Chats (enfants à partir de 10 ans), a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Chez Dupont offers an enticing alternative with its varied 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.

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Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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