One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from La Rochelle traveling east to Bordeaux, Sarlat La Caneda, and Tours

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Photo of seaside of La Rochelle dominated by Tour de la Lanterne, France.
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Explore the best of France on a remarkable 8-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring La Rochelle, Lormont, Bordeaux, Montignac-Lascaux, Beynac-et-Cazenac, Sarlat La Caneda, Blois, Tours, Amboise, Chasseneuil-du-Poitou, and Poitiers.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in France. You will spend 3 nights in La Rochelle, 1 night in Bordeaux, 1 night in Sarlat La Caneda, and 2 nights in Tours. 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 you covered.

Upon arriving in La Rochelle, 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. Château De Chambord and Château De Chenonceau are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Château D'amboise, learn more about the unique La Cité Du Vin, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Château Du Clos Lucé.

As you hit the open road and drive through La Rochelle, Lormont, Bordeaux, Montignac-Lascaux, Beynac-et-Cazenac, Sarlat La Caneda, Blois, Tours, Amboise, Chasseneuil-du-Poitou, and Poitiers, 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, accommodations, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Day 1

Day 1

  • La Rochelle - Arrival day
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  • Saint Louis Cathedral
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Welcome to La Rochelle, the perfect starting point for your road trip in France! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights discovering what to see in La Rochelle before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

La Rochelle 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 Saint Louis Cathedral, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in La Rochelle. 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 La Rochelle, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at La Côte Rôtie, a highly-rated dining destination in La Rochelle. If you're eager to try something different, consider La Boussole, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Les hédonistes. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in La Rochelle this evening.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Mac Ewan's Pub after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Le Cadre, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Le Plan B also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

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Day 2

Day 2

  • La Rochelle
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Drive 10 km, 1 hour 7 min

  • Parc animalier
  • Charruyer Park of La Rochelle
  • La Grande Roue
  • La Rochelle Aquarium
  • Musée maritime de La Rochelle
  • musée des automates (La Rochelle)
  • More

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions La Rochelle has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in La Rochelle.

Next, go to Charruyer Park Of La Rochelle.

After visiting Parc Animalier and Charruyer Park Of La Rochelle, have a stroll along La Rochelle's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to La Grande Roue. This romantic amusement center offers a unique experience. La Rochelle Aquarium is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Musée Maritime De La Rochelle, one of the most gorgeous places to visit in La Rochelle. If you still have some time left for sightseeing, we also recommend stopping by Musée Des Automates (la Rochelle).

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in France. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Les Flots, a highly-rated dining destination in La Rochelle. If you're eager to try something different, consider Palem Café, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Christopher Coutanceau. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in La Rochelle this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Le Dock Café, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Le Mary Lili is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, L'alibi also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • La Rochelle
  • Bordeaux
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Drive 192 km, 2 hours 54 min

  • Cité du Vin
  • jardin public
  • miroir d'eau
  • place de la Bourse
  • Bordeaux Cathedral
  • More

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 Lormont and Bordeaux. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bordeaux, where will spend 1 night.

Let La Cité Du Vin set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this visually striking museum before continuing your journey. Jardin Public is your next stop. This notable park is one of the best-rated sights in La Rochelle.

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 Miroir D'eau. This awe-inspiring art installation is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Place De La Bourse and Bordeaux Cathedral.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Bordeaux, 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 Bordeaux's best restaurants.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Le Cent 33, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, L'Originel is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Le Clemenceau. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bordeaux tonight.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Café Brun, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Le Mushroom Café offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Bordeaux. Whose Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Bordeaux
  • Sarlat-la-Canéda
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Drive 234 km, 3 hours 16 min

  • Lascaux International Center of Parietal Art
  • Lascaux 2
  • Château de Beynac
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Your itinerary for day 4 of your road trip in France includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Montignac-Lascaux and Beynac-et-Cazenac. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Sarlat La Caneda, where you'll spend 1 night.

Experience Lascaux International Center Of Parietal Art, a notable museum in the village. Then, head to Lascaux and soak in the ambiance of this eye-catching cave.

There are many interesting places to see in Bordeaux, and when you are ready for more, go to Château De Beynac. This is one of the village’s most interesting visually striking spots of interest.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Sarlat La Caneda. Sarlat La Caneda 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 Sarlat La Caneda. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Sarlat-la-Canéda
  • Tours
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Drive 444 km, 5 hours 22 min

  • Château de Cheverny
  • Château de Blois
  • Jacques-Gabriel Bridge
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Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Blois. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Tours, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Start your day at Château De Cheverny. This history-steeped castle is a notable place to see in Sarlat La Caneda. Then, wander over to Château De Blois. If culturally significant sites excite you, this castle will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Jacques-gabriel Bridge. This visually striking monument is a favorite among visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Tours. Check in and relax before you head out to tour 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 Tours, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at TIA Gourmet, a top-rated dining destination in Tours. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Les Bartavelles, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Originals Relais, Château de Beaulieu et Magnolia Spa. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Tours this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Cave À Vins Et À Bières Vins Sur 20, Bar Et Soirées À Thème, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Piraat Cafe Tours is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, L'alexandra also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Tours
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Drive 192 km, 3 hours 12 min

  • Château de Chambord
  • Château d'Amboise
  • Château du Clos Lucé
  • Château de Chenonceau
  • More

On day 6 of your road trip in France, you’ll start and end your day in Tours, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you still have 1 night to spend in Tours, there’s no need to rush. Experience Amboise to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Awaiting your discovery is the popular Château De Chambord, an enchanting castle in Tours. Next, go to Château D'amboise.

Château De Chenonceau is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

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

Tours 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 Tours.

Dine in style at Au Café d' en face, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, L'Escapade boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Au Fût et à mesure. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Tours.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Café Bar Jazz Le Strapontin, known for its lively atmosphere. Le P Tit Soleil is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, La Belle Époque offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Tours
  • La Rochelle
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Drive 246 km, 3 hours 15 min

  • Futuroscope
  • Dances with Robots
  • Poitiers Cathedral
  • Baptistère Saint-Jean
  • More

On day 7 of your road trip in France, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Chasseneuil-du-Poitou and Poitiers are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in La Rochelle, where you will stay for 1 night.

Futuroscope leaves a lasting impression. This amusement park is one of the most frequently visited places to visit in Tours. Next, head to Dances With Robots, a curiosity-inducing amusement center, known for its picture-perfect 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 Poitiers Cathedral. This respected church is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Baptistère Saint-jean. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at La Plage, an iconic dining spot in La Rochelle. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of LE JARDIN DU MARCHÉ, a popular restaurant in La Rochelle. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Les copains d'abord, a hidden gem nestled in La Rochelle. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Le Saint-nicolas Hôtel La Rochelle offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Académie De La Bière is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Lili La Rochelle is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

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Day 8

Day 8

  • La Rochelle - Departure day
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  • Grosse Horloge
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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 La Rochelle before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Grosse Horloge. This worthwhile monument is a hotspot among locals.

Take advantage of your accommodation's proximity to La Rochelle’s shopping district for some last-minute bargain hunting. Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Le Chat’Ren’Thé - CatCoffee & Restaurant, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Le Bistrot de Mémé? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

You’ll then say farewell to La Rochelle. 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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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.
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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