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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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 8-day road trip through France. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

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!

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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Saint Louis Cathedral
Parc animalierCharruyer Park of La RochelleLa Grande RoueLa Rochelle AquariumMusée maritime de La Rochellemusée des automates (La Rochelle)
Cité du Vinjardin publicmiroir d'eauplace de la BourseBordeaux Cathedral
Lascaux International Center of Parietal ArtLascaux 2Château de Beynac
Château de ChevernyChâteau de BloisJacques-Gabriel Bridge
Château de ChambordChâteau d'AmboiseChâteau du Clos LucéChâteau de Chenonceau
FuturoscopeDances with RobotsPoitiers CathedralBaptistère Saint-Jean
Grosse Horloge

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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 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at La Côte Rôtie, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, La Boussole offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Les hédonistes is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in La Rochelle.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Mac Ewan's Pub, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Le Cadre is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Le Plan B is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore La Rochelle. You’ll stay in La Rochelle for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Immerse yourself in La Rochelle’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Parc Animalier. Next, dive into the mesmerizing features of Charruyer Park Of La Rochelle, a must-visit park in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to La Grande Roue, a beloved amusement center. For a change of scene, check out La Rochelle Aquarium, known for its instagrammable features. We also recommend visiting Musée Maritime De La Rochelle. This maritime museum is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest. Lastly, end your day with a visit to Musée Des Automates (la Rochelle), yet another curiosity-inducing attraction in La Rochelle.

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.

As you explore more of La Rochelle, 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 Restaurant Les Flots, a top-rated dining destination in La Rochelle. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Palem Café, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Christopher Coutanceau. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in La Rochelle this evening.

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

Say good night to La Rochelle and look forward to another great day of your road trip 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

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Lormont and Bordeaux. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bordeaux, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in La Rochelle, including a museum, a park, an art installation, a public square, a church and much more! Start your day with a visit to La Cité Du Vin. This captivating museum is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Jardin Public, which may be one of the most romantic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring La Rochelle on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Miroir D'eau, a locally renowned art installation in the town. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for 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.

As you explore more of Bordeaux, 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Le Cent 33, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? L'Originel offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Clemenceau. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bordeaux.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Café Brun, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Le Mushroom Café. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Whose Bar, another top-rated place in the area.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night 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
  • More

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Montignac-Lascaux and Beynac-et-Cazenac, 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 Sarlat La Caneda. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Bordeaux allows for both. Start by heading to Lascaux International Center Of Parietal Art. This notable museum provides an insightful glimpse into the village's identity. Next, discover Lascaux, a standout cave, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Château De Beynac, a well-known castle.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Sarlat La Caneda's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

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

On day 5 of your road trip in France, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Blois. In the evening, you’ll end up in Tours, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Château De Cheverny. This interesting castle is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Château De Blois, one of the town’s best highlights.

Next, check out Jacques-gabriel Bridge, one of the most intriguing places to see in Sarlat La Caneda. This monument is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Tours. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Tours. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at TIA Gourmet, a top-rated dining spot in Tours. If you're in the mood for something new, try Les Bartavelles, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at The Originals Relais, Château de Beaulieu et Magnolia Spa. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Tours.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Cave À Vins Et À Bières Vins Sur 20, Bar Et Soirées À Thème after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Piraat Cafe Tours, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, L'alexandra also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road 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

Wake up to day 6 of your extraordinary road trip in France. With 1 night left in Tours, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is Château De Chambord. This well-known castle is a romantic place to see in Tours.

As you stroll around Tours, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Château Du Clos Lucé. Next, make your way to Château De Chenonceau to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Tours.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Tours. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Au Café d' en face, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? L'Escapade offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Au Fût et à mesure. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Tours.

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

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip 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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Chasseneuil-du-Poitou and Poitiers. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in La Rochelle, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Start by visiting Futuroscope, a prime spot to begin your journey. This visually striking amusement park is sure to impress. Next on your list is Dances With Robots, another must-visit landmark and frequently visited amusement center renowned for its picture-perfect features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Tours by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Poitiers Cathedral. This picture-perfect church is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Tours experience. We also recommend visiting Baptistère Saint-jean, an underrated church.

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 in La Rochelle. 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.

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.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Le Saint-nicolas Hôtel La Rochelle, known for its inviting atmosphere. Académie De La Bière is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Lili La Rochelle provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day 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 often recommended monument is a popular place to see in the city.

As your final day in France unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in La Rochelle's best shopping area, Le Marché Central. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to 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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Le Chat’Ren’Thé - CatCoffee & Restaurant, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Le Bistrot de Mémé is another top choice with a popular 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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