9-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bayonne traveling north to Bordeaux, Blois, Paris, Rouen, and Nantes

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 Bayonne and Biarritz. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bordeaux, where you will stay for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Bayonne today. One of the most worthwhile attractions included on the itinerary is Bayonne Cathedral. This culturally significant church will help you start your sightseeing on top.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Biarritz, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Bayonne to Biarritz may take around 16 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Biarritz, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your journey at Chambre D'amour Playground and explore the gorgeous features. Next, make your way to Rocher De La Vierge, another highlight in the town. When you’re done exploring the rock formation, continue to Biarritz Aquarium, an awe-inspiring aquarium.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Le Cent 33, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, L'Originel offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Le Clemenceau is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bordeaux.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Café Brun, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Le Mushroom Café, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Whose Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

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 Tours and Blois. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Blois, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Start by visiting Place De La Bourse, a prime spot to begin your journey. This visually striking public square is sure to impress.

When you’ve had your share of Bordeaux, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Tours. Your travel time is around 3 hours 23 min.

Begin your journey at Château De Villandry and explore the visually striking features. Next, make your way to Jardin Botanique De Tours, another highlight in the city. When you’re done exploring the botanical garden, continue to Prébendes D'oé Garden, a detailed park.

Blois’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Tours behind. This drive usually takes around 52 min. Blois welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Make your way to Château De Blois, a captivating castle that draws attention for its majestic features.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Blois. Blois offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As you explore more of Blois, 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 Le Relais de la Tour, a top-rated dining destination in Blois. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Cote Loire Auberge Ligerienne, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Paris, 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 Paris. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Paris. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 58 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Jardin Des Plantes, a captivating botanical garden that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Panthéon, where you can soak in the historic surroundings. Next, explore Jardin Du Luxembourg, yet another spectacular place to see in the area. After the park, make time to go to Sainte Chapelle. This visually striking church is well worthwhile the visit. Lastly, head to Notre-dame De Paris, a popular church you won’t want to miss.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Paris, 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 Paris. 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 Mumi, an iconic dining spot in Paris. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Beaurepaire Ambassade du Béarn - Restaurant Paris Terrasse, a popular restaurant in Paris. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of L'Imprévu Café, a hidden gem nestled in Paris. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Café De Paris V stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Dirty Dick offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Little Red Door is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

Day 5 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Paris has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Paris by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

A blend of a charming, a stunning, an instagrammable, a history-steeped, a majestic, a masterful, and a monumental await you in Paris on today’s itinerary. First up is the world-famous park, Champ De Mars. It's a standout spot that offers a memorable visit. Afterward, continue to Eiffel Tower. A visit to this monument is an enriching experience for all.

As you explore Paris’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Arc De Triomphe. This globally renowned monument is an essential stop that should not be missed. Following that, head to Sacré-cœur, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Lastly, visit La Villette and learn why this park is renowned as one of the city's most famous attractions.

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 Paris's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Le Marais Restaurant Paris, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Le Sens Unique offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Caveau de l'isle. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Paris.

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Paris. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Rouen, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today’s itinerary in Paris covers several incredible sights, including an opera house, a public square, a park, a museum and much more! Start your adventure at Palais Garnier. This well-known opera house is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the history-steeped wonders of Place De La Concorde, a must-see public square 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 Tuileries Garden. This spectacular park offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Musée D'orsay, where you can take in its instagrammable features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Rouen. 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 Rouen. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Au Fût et à mesure, a highly-rated dining destination in Rouen. If you're eager to try something different, consider Le Veau d'Or, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant La Petite Auberge. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Rouen this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Le Petit Bar Cocktails, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Côcoon Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Delirium Café Rouen is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Sainte-luce-sur-loire and Nantes. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Nantes. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Sainte-luce-sur-loire allows for both.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Rouen, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Sainte-luce-sur-loire may take around 3 hours 37 min. Upon your arrival in Sainte-luce-sur-loire, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Head to Grand Blotterau Parc, a locally appreciated park in Sainte-luce-sur-loire. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’ve had your share of Sainte-luce-sur-loire, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Nantes. Your travel time is around 10 min.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Botanical Garden, a well-known botanical garden that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Château Des Ducs De Bretagne, where you can soak in the breathtaking surroundings. Next, explore Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes, yet another notable place to see in the area.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Nantes. Nantes offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Gigg's Irish Pub, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? L'Aménité - Restaurant Nantes offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Parallèle. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Nantes.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Le Chat Noir, known for its lively atmosphere. Oceania Hôtel De France Nantes is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Bar Le Cercle Rouge Nantes offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

On day 8 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. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bordeaux, where you will stay for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Nantes and set your GPS to Bordeaux. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 3 hours 17 min. Upon reaching Bordeaux, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Jardin Public. Spend some time admiring the masterful features of the park before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Miroir D'eau. This interesting art installation is a traveler-favorite in the city. Not far away, you’ll also find Bordeaux Cathedral. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the church.

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 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.

Dine in style at L'Oiseau Bleu, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurant Soléna boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Hôtel De Sèze. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bordeaux.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, The Grizzly Pub offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook The Dog And Duck, another top-rated bar in the area.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!