One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from La Rochelle traveling south to Perigueux, Toulouse, and Bordeaux

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Photo of seaside of La Rochelle dominated by Tour de la Lanterne, France.
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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 2 nights in La Rochelle, 1 night in Perigueux, 2 nights in Toulouse, and 2 nights in Bordeaux. 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. Cité De Carcassonne and Dune Of Pilat are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Padirac Cave, learn more about the unique La Cité Du Vin, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Place De La Bourse.

As you hit the open road and drive through La Rochelle, Saint-Émilion, Perigueux, Padirac, Gourdon, Toulouse, Carcassonne, Lastours, Blagnac, Bordeaux, Arcachon, Le Bouscat, and Lormont, 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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Day 1

Day 1

  • La Rochelle - Arrival day
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  • Charruyer Park of La Rochelle
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Say hello to La Rochelle! Your exciting road trip through France is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in La Rochelle for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

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 Charruyer Park Of La Rochelle, 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 hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars 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.

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

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

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Day 2

Day 2

  • La Rochelle
  • Périgueux
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Drive 308 km, 3 hours 46 min

  • Musée maritime de La Rochelle
  • La Rochelle Aquarium
  • Monolithic Church of Saint-Emilion
  • More

On day 2 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 La Rochelle and Saint-Émilion. In the evening, you’ll end up in Perigueux, where you will stay for 1 night.

Immerse yourself in La Rochelle’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Musée Maritime De La Rochelle. This picture-perfect maritime museum is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the instagrammable features of La Rochelle Aquarium, a must-visit aquarium 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 Monolithic Church Of Saint-emilion, a locally appreciated church.

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

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Perigueux by reserving a table at Le Bel'Art. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of traditional cuisine. For a different taste, head over to L'Essentiel, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore La Table du Pouyaud, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite modern menu. With a Bib Gourmand acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Perigueux.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Périgueux
  • Toulouse
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Drive 307 km, 3 hours 55 min

  • Railway Tourist Haut Quercy
  • Padirac Cave
  • Animal Park of Gramat
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Padirac and Gourdon. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Toulouse, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Perigueux allows for both. Start by heading to Railway Tourist Haut Quercy. This curiosity-inducing heritage railway provides an insightful glimpse into the village's identity. Next, discover Padirac Cave, a visually striking cave, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Animal Park Of Gramat, an often recommended zoo.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Toulouse, 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 Toulouse, 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.

Begin your culinary exploration in Toulouse by securing a reservation at Stéphane Tournié - Les Jardins de l'Opéra. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Py-r, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Hedone, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Moloko. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to The Botanist Pub, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Melting Pot Pub provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Toulouse
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Drive 225 km, 3 hours 4 min

  • Church of Saints Nazaire and Celse
  • Cité de Carcassonne
  • Château et Remparts de la Cité de Carcassonne
  • Château comtal de Carcassonne
  • Les Quatre Châteaux de Lastours
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Wake up to day 4 of your extraordinary road trip in France. With 1 night left in Toulouse, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Immerse yourself in Toulouse’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Basilique Saint Nazaire. This visually striking church is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the culturally significant features of Cité De Carcassonne, a must-visit castle in the town.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Château Et Remparts De La Cité De Carcassonne, a curiosity-inducing castle. For a change of scene, check out Château Comtal, known for its romantic features. We also recommend visiting Les Quatre Châteaux De Lastours. This castle is a must for anyone looking to experience the town to the fullest.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at La Faim des Haricots/TOULOUSE CENTRE VILLE, a top-rated dining destination in Toulouse. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Madame Bovary, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Au Pois Gourmand restaurant gastronomique. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Toulouse this evening.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Pub O'clock, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, La Loupiote offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Café Populaire provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Toulouse
  • Bordeaux
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Drive 266 km, 3 hours 21 min

  • Couvent des Jacobins
  • Basilica of St. Sernin
  • Jardin des Plantes
  • Musée Aeroscopia
  • More

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Toulouse and Blagnac, 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 Bordeaux. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

A blend of fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots await you in Toulouse on today’s itinerary. First up is the often recommended monastery, Couvent Des Jacobins. Afterward, continue to Basilica Of St. Sernin, a church every traveler should visit.

As you explore Toulouse’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Jardin Des Plantes. This locally appreciated botanical garden is an essential stop. Following that, head to Musée Aeroscopia, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

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

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Ressources, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Le Pressoir d'Argent - Gordon Ramsay is one of the best restaurants for modern cuisine in Bordeaux. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at La Grand'Vigne - Les Sources de Caudalie. As a top-rated establishment with 2 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern cuisine in the city.

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

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Bordeaux
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Drive 141 km, 2 hours 41 min

  • Dune of Pilat
  • miroir d'eau
  • place de la Bourse
  • Monument aux Girondins
  • jardin public
  • More

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Bordeaux, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Bordeaux, including a sand dunes, an art installation, a public square, a monument, a park and much more! Start your adventure at Dune Of Pilat. This captivating sand dunes is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Miroir D'eau located in Bordeaux for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Place De La Bourse. Its symbolic features will captivate you. After the public square, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Monument Aux Girondins. Visitors usually appreciate the picture-perfect features of this monument. Next up is Jardin Public, a highly recommended park.

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

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Bordeaux's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at L'Oiseau Bleu, a top-rated dining spot in Bordeaux. If you're in the mood for something new, try Restaurant Soléna, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Hôtel De Sèze. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bordeaux.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to The Grizzly Pub for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, The Dog And Duck is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Bordeaux
  • La Rochelle
  • More

Drive 196 km, 2 hours 48 min

  • Bordeaux Cathedral
  • The big bell of Bordeaux
  • parc bordelais
  • Cité du Vin
  • More

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Bordeaux, Le Bouscat, and Lormont. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in La Rochelle, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Bordeaux includes a church, a historical landmark, a park, a museum and much more! Bordeaux Cathedral is must-visit church and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to The Big Bell Of Bordeaux, a beloved historical landmark, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Parc Bordelais, a majestic park, also available for your discovery today.

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.

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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in La Rochelle by reserving a table at L'Hysope. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional creative and modern menu. For a different taste experience, head to Christopher Coutanceau, recognized for its delicious seafood and modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Le Dock Café, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Le Mary Lili, a bar catering to every mood and preference. L'alibi likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

On your last day in France, take time to indulge in shopping at La Rochelle’s popular marketplace, Le Marché Central. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

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

Dine in style at La Plage, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, LE JARDIN DU MARCHÉ boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

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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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.
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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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