One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Pau traveling north to Angouleme, Angers, Nantes, and Bordeaux

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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 Pau, 1 night in Angouleme, 1 night in Angers, 2 nights in Nantes, and 1 night 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 Pau, 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. Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes and La Cité Du Vin are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Château Des Ducs De Bretagne, learn more about the unique Place De La Bourse, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Botanical Garden.

As you hit the open road and drive through Pau, Angouleme, Tours, Angers, Nantes, Essarts-en-Bocage, La Roche Sur Yon, Chantonnay, Bordeaux, Lormont, and Bizanos, 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
place Clémenceau
FunicularMusée des Beaux-Arts de PauParc Beaumont
Cathédrale Saint-GatienJardin botanique de ToursChâteau de VillandryChâteau d'Ussé
Jardin des Plantes d'AngersChâteau d'AngersTerra Botanica
Île de Versailles (Nantes)Botanical GardenChâteau des ducs de BretagneLe Lieu uniqueMachines of the Isle of Nantes
Château Des Essarts, spectacle VendéeChocolate Museum GelencserParc Clémenceau
Bordeaux Cathedralplace de la Boursemiroir d'eauCité du Vinjardin public
Kofu Japanese Garden

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques - Arrival day
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  • place Clémenceau
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Say hello to Pau! 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 town. You will stay in Pau for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

Pau is a beautiful town 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 Place Clémenceau, or just taking a stroll in the town 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 Pau. 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 Pau, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Dine in style at Le Henri IV, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Le Garage boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Au Fin Gourmet. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Pau.

Continue your lively evening at Snug, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Winfield Café is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, The Galway ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques
  • Angoulême
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Drive 332 km, 3 hours 49 min

  • Funicular
  • Musée des Beaux-Arts de Pau
  • Parc Beaumont
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Pau. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Angouleme. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Pau, including a tramway, a museum, and a park. Start your day with a visit to Funiculaire De Pau. This up-and-coming tramway is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Musée Des Beaux-arts De Pau, which may be one of the most visually striking places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Pau 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 Parc Beaumont, an up-and-coming park in the town.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Angouleme. Angouleme 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 Angouleme. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Angoulême
  • Angers
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Drive 347 km, 4 hours 16 min

  • Cathédrale Saint-Gatien
  • Jardin botanique de Tours
  • Château de Villandry
  • Château d'Ussé
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Tours. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Angers, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views in the charming city of Angouleme. Your adventure starts at Tours Cathedral, a curiosity-inducing local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Jardin Botanique De Tours. This intriguing botanical garden is known for its enchanting appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Angouleme's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Château De Villandry. This enchanting castle offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Château D'ussé is also worth visiting.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Wallaby's Australian Café, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try La Cour - Angers? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Brasserie de la Gare as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Angers.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Flo Cocktail, Beer, Spirits & Music, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Le Snooker offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Angers. Velenjak is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Angers
  • Nantes
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Drive 101 km, 1 hour 50 min

  • Jardin des Plantes d'Angers
  • Château d'Angers
  • Terra Botanica
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Angers. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Nantes, 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 Angers allows for both. Start by heading to Jardin Des Plantes D'angers. This curiosity-inducing botanical garden provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Château D'angers, a grand castle, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Terra Botanica, a popular botanical garden.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Nantes. Check in and spend some time relaxing 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 an authentic adventure.

Dine in style at Gigg's Irish Pub, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, L'Aménité - Restaurant Nantes boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Le Parallèle. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Nantes.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Le Chat Noir stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Oceania Hôtel De France Nantes offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Bar Le Cercle Rouge Nantes is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Nantes
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Drive 9 km, 1 hour 6 min

  • Île de Versailles (Nantes)
  • Botanical Garden
  • Château des ducs de Bretagne
  • Le Lieu unique
  • Machines of the Isle of Nantes
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On day 5 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Nantes. You’ll stay in Nantes for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in the charming city of Nantes. Your adventure starts at Île De Versailles (nantes), a beloved local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Botanical Garden. This well-known botanical garden is known for its serene appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Nantes's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Château Des Ducs De Bretagne. This culturally significant castle offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Le Lieu Unique is also worth visiting, along with Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

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.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at La Cigale, a popular restaurant in Nantes. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Nantes at Le Bistro des Enfants Nantais, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated L'Abbaye de Villeneuve. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Nantes tonight.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Les Berthom, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Coffee House offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Nantes. Bateau-lavoir is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Nantes
  • Bordeaux
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Drive 403 km, 4 hours 30 min

  • Château Des Essarts, spectacle Vendée
  • Chocolate Museum Gelencser
  • Parc Clémenceau
  • More

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Essarts-en-Bocage, La Roche Sur Yon, and Chantonnay, 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 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Nantes today. One of the most curiosity-inducing attractions included on the itinerary is Château Des Essarts, Spectacle Vendée. This romantic castle will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Chocolate Museum Gelencser and learn what makes this eye-catching museum unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the intriguing Parc Clémenceau.

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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Le Cent 33, a top-rated dining destination in Bordeaux. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider L'Originel, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Clemenceau. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bordeaux this evening.

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.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Bordeaux
  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques
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Drive 228 km, 3 hours 2 min

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

On day 7 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 Bordeaux and Lormont. In the evening, you’ll end up in Pau, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Bordeaux includes a church, a public square, an art installation, a museum, a park and much more! Bordeaux Cathedral is must-visit church and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Place De La Bourse, a captivating public square, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Miroir D'eau, a culturally significant art installation, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Bordeaux. If you’re looking for more, La Cité Du Vin is also a popular attraction that is worthwhile a visit. Lastly, don’t miss Jardin Public, a notable gem to see in the city.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Resto Dit Vin, an iconic dining spot in Pau. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurant L' Ardoise, a popular restaurant in Pau. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Little Monkey Bar, a hidden gem nestled in Pau. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques - Departure day
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  • Kofu Japanese Garden
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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 Pau 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 Kofu Japanese Garden, a mesmerizing botanical garden before you head out.

Maximize your last day in France and go on a shopping spree in Pau’s shopping center, the lively Quartier du Hédas. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in France. Discover boutiques with stylish fashion choices to upgrade your wardrobe. Take one last moment to soak in France, and unwind with tea or coffee at a cozy cafe.

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

If you're in the mood for something new, try Maynats, another premier location with a delectable menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Pau. 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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