One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from La Rochelle traveling east to Bordeaux, Sarlat La Caneda, and Tours
Description
Included
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 La Rochelle, Lormont, Bordeaux, Montignac-Lascaux, Beynac-et-Cazenac, Sarlat La Caneda, Blois, Tours, Amboise, Chasseneuil-du-Poitou, and Poitiers. 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 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 got 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, 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!
Itinerary summary
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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 immersing yourself in La Rochelle's charm 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.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in La Rochelle. 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 La Rochelle, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Savor the flavors at La Côte Rôtie, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, La Boussole beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Les hédonistes. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in La Rochelle tonight.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Mac Ewan's Pub, known for its inviting atmosphere. Le Cadre is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Le Plan B provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in France!
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)
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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 La Rochelle by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
Start your adventure at Parc Animalier. This intriguing zoo is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the eye-catching wonders of Charruyer Park Of La Rochelle, a must-see park in the city.
Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to La Grande Roue. This curiosity-inducing amusement center offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to La Rochelle Aquarium, where you can take in picture-perfect features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Musée Maritime De La Rochelle and Musée Maritime De La Rochelle. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
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.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in La Rochelle. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant Les Flots, 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 Palem Café, 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 Christopher Coutanceau, 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 Dock Café offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Le Mary Lili is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. L'alibi is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!
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
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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 vibrant destinations - Lormont and Bordeaux. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bordeaux. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in La Rochelle, including a museum, a park, an art installation, a public square, a church and much more! Start your adventure at La Cité Du Vin. This locally renowned museum is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Jardin Public located in La Rochelle for an enchanting atmosphere.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Miroir D'eau. Its romantic features will captivate you. After the art installation, continue your tour of the town with a visit to Place De La Bourse. This public square has a romantic appeal. For a change of pace, head to Bordeaux Cathedral. As one of the most locally renowned attractions in La Rochelle, this church is an excellent place to end your self-guided tour.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of 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 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.
Savor the flavors at Le Cent 33, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, L'Originel beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Le Clemenceau. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bordeaux tonight.
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.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!
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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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Montignac-Lascaux and Beynac-et-Cazenac. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Sarlat La Caneda, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Discover a day packed with fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites in Bordeaux. Begin your sightseeing with Lascaux International Center Of Parietal Art. This well-known museum is one of the top attractions in the village. Proceed to Lascaux, another must-visit attraction that enhances the village’s allure.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Bordeaux, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Château De Beynac. This notable castle is a traveler-favorite.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Sarlat La Caneda. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
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.
Head back to your accommodation in Sarlat La Caneda and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!
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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On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Blois. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Tours, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Sarlat La Caneda, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at Château De Cheverny, a popular castle in the town. Then, head to Château De Blois and soak in the ambiance of this enchanting castle.
There are many interesting places to see in Sarlat La Caneda and when you are ready for more, go to Jacques-gabriel Bridge. This is one of the town’s most up-and-coming spots.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Tours, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As you explore more of Tours, 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 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.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Cave À Vins Et À Bières Vins Sur 20, Bar Et Soirées À Thème, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Piraat Cafe Tours is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, L'alexandra is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Say good night to Tours and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!
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
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At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Tours, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Château De Chambord is must-visit castle and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Château D'amboise, a locally renowned château, located just a leisurely stroll away.
Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Tours. If you’re looking for more, Château De Chenonceau is also a captivating attraction that is worthwhile a visit.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Tours.
As you explore more of Tours, 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.
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.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Café Bar Jazz Le Strapontin, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Le P Tit Soleil, a bar catering to every mood and preference. La Belle Époque likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!
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
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Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Chasseneuil-du-Poitou and Poitiers, 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 La Rochelle. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Today’s itinerary in Tours covers several incredible sights, including an amusement park, an amusement center, and a church. Start your adventure at Futuroscope. This worthwhile amusement park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the instagrammable wonders of Dances With Robots, a must-see amusement center in the village.
Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Poitiers Cathedral. This up-and-coming church offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Baptistère Saint-jean, where you can take in photogenic features.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in La Rochelle. La Rochelle offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of La Rochelle's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at La Plage, a top-rated dining spot in La Rochelle. If you're in the mood for something new, try LE JARDIN DU MARCHÉ, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Les copains d'abord. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in La Rochelle.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Le Saint-nicolas Hôtel La Rochelle. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Académie De La Bière, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Lili La Rochelle provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!
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, we recommend visiting Grosse Horloge, a picture-perfect monument before you head out.
Make the most of your final day in France by visiting La Rochelle’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Les Minimes Marina. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in France.
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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