One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bordeaux traveling west to Bayonne, Saintes, Nantes, and La Rochelle

On day 2 of your road trip in France, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Bordeaux and Le Bouscat are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bayonne, where you will stay for 1 night.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the interesting Bordeaux Cathedral and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Porte Cailhau, a symbolic monument that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Place De La Bourse, one of the city’s most locally renowned spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the notable Miroir D'eau.

Le Bouscat’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bordeaux behind. This drive usually takes around 11 min. Le Bouscat welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Parc Bordelais is an often recommended park we recommend visiting today. Discover its mesmerizing features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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

Bayonne is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Bayonne.

Dine in style at JANINE, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Josie Factory boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Le Belzunce. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bayonne.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Dame Jeanne, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Café Des Pyrénées is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Kubata & Kukubat is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Bordeaux and Lormont. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Saintes, where will spend 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Bayonne, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Bordeaux. Your travel time is around 2 hours 4 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Porte De Bourgogne, an intriguing monument known for its culturally significant features. Next, continue your sightseeing at The Big Bell Of Bordeaux, a worthwhile historical landmark.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Lormont. This car ride takes around 14 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to La Cité Du Vin, a well-known museum in Lormont. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Betasom. This often recommended museum is a top recommendation in the area.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Saintes. Saintes offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Saintes by reserving a table at Saveurs de l'Abbaye. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern menu. For a different taste experience, head to L'IØDE, recognized for its delicious modern dishes. This Bib Gourmand restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday.

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

Your itinerary for day 4 of your road trip in France includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Le Château-d'Oléron and Rochefort. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Nantes, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Le Château-d'Oléron. This car ride takes around 54 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Le Château-d'Oléron is Citadelle Du Château-d'oléron, an often recommended castle that draws attention for its historic features.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Rochefort. This drive usually takes around 35 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Savor the day by heading to Association Hermione La Fayette, an intriguing historic ship that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Musée Des Commerces D'autrefois, where you can soak in the visually striking surroundings.

Next, explore Place Colbert, yet another up-and-coming place to see in the area.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Nantes's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Experience a harmony of flavors at L’Épicurien - Abbaye de Villeneuve in Nantes by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, L’Épicurien - Abbaye de Villeneuve offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Les Cadets, 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 LuluRouget, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern menu.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Le Chat Noir. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Oceania Hôtel De France Nantes, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Bar Le Cercle Rouge Nantes 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.

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Nantes, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Les Sables D'olonne.

Les Sables D'olonne is brimming with adventures.

After soaking in Nantes’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Les Sables D'olonne. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 22 min. When you arrive in Les Sables D'olonne, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Aquarium De Vendée, a locally appreciated aquarium in Les Sables D'olonne. Explore its photogenic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’ve had your share of Nantes, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Les Sables D'olonne. Your travel time is around 1 hour 22 min.

Parc Zoologique Des Sables D'olonnes is an intriguing zoo we recommend visiting today. Discover its visually striking features before continuing your self-guided tour to L'île Penotte, a photogenic street art that’s well-regarded in the area.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Nantes and your accommodation.

Nantes is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Nantes.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at La Cigale, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Le Bistro des Enfants Nantais? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at L'Abbaye de Villeneuve as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Nantes.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Les Berthom after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to The Coffee House for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Bateau-lavoir is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in France.

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Nantes. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in La Rochelle, where you'll spend 1 night.

Check out the well-known castle, Château Des Ducs De Bretagne. Afterward, continue to Le Lieu Unique, a cultural center every traveler should visit. As you explore Nantes’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city.

Next, make your way to Botanical Garden. This interesting botanical garden is an essential stop. Following that, head to Île De Versailles (nantes), another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes, an interesting art installation in the city.

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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in La Rochelle, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Experience a symphony of flavors at L'Hysope in La Rochelle by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, L'Hysope delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious creative and modern cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Christopher Coutanceau, acclaimed for its delectable seafood and modern specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Mac Ewan's Pub stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Le Cadre offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Le Plan B is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Head back to your accommodation in La Rochelle and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in France.

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Arcachon. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Bordeaux, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Arcachon’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of La Rochelle behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 39 min. Arcachon welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Parc Mauresque, a beloved park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Église Notre-dame-des-passes D'arcachon and admire its culturally significant features.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Arcachon, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from La Rochelle to Arcachon may take around 2 hours 39 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Arcachon, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Dune Of Pilat. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the sand dunes before you continue to your next stop.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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.

Have a memorable dining experience in Bordeaux by booking a table at Ressources, a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern menu. For a different culinary experience in Bordeaux, Le Pressoir d'Argent - Gordon Ramsay shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-awardee consistently earns high praises, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, La Grand'Vigne - Les Sources de Caudalie is known as a top local spot in Bordeaux for its delicious modern cuisine. This 2-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Continue your lively evening at Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. The Grizzly Pub is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, The Dog And Duck ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!