Relaxed 9-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bordeaux to Bayonne

Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Bordeaux, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in France are extraordinary.

Whatever your travel style is, Miroir D'eau is an essential stop in Bordeaux. This notable art installation provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Place De La Bourse, an UNESCO world heritage-designated public square, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Porte Cailhau, a frequently visited monument. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the frequently visited Tour Pey-berland. Round off your day at Bordeaux Cathedral, another gem in Bordeaux with visually striking features to discover.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in France more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Bordeaux offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of France. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Bordeaux, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Bordeaux by reserving a table at Ressources. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern menu. For a different taste experience, head to Le Pressoir d'Argent - Gordon Ramsay, recognized for its delicious modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit La Grand'Vigne - Les Sources de Caudalie, a local favorite known for its delightful modern cuisine in Bordeaux. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 2 Michelin star is an ideal choice for modern foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Bordeaux. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Grizzly Pub is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, The Dog And Duck also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in France!

On day 4 of your leisurely self-drive tour across France, you’ll go deep into Bordeaux, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Bordeaux, and meet locals along the way!

A top thing to do today is to explore Rue Sainte-Catherine, a must-see street in Bordeaux. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.

Start your day at Basilica Of St. Michael, Bordeaux. This picture-perfect church is a frequently visited place to see in Bordeaux. Then, wander over to Porte De Bourgogne. If picture-perfect sites excite you, this monument will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find The Big Bell Of Bordeaux. This breathtaking historical landmark is a favorite among visitors.

Bordeaux offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Musée D'aquitaine Tram Stop is an intriguing spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across France by joining a traveler-approved tour in Bordeaux. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Bordeaux that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in France more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Bordeaux to find the best options for you!

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Bordeaux has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Le Confidentiel, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Le Chicoula Bistrot d'art is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Loco By Jem's. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bordeaux tonight.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Lord Lion Bar Pub, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Bar Notre Dame provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, L'engrenage offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Bordeaux can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in France!

Your relaxed road trip in France continues on day 5 with more unforgettable memories to make. Today, you’ll get to know France better by exploring the top attractions of Bordeaux and beyond. With 1 night left in Bordeaux, you’ll still have time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

After soaking in Bordeaux’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Fouras. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 44 min. When you arrive in Fouras, it's time to take a break from the road.

Spend your afternoon discovering Fouras Fort, a beloved castle known for its breathtaking features.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Rochefort. This drive usually takes around 20 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Place Colbert, a worthwhile public square in Rochefort. Explore its standout features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Musée Des Commerces D'autrefois. This worthwhile museum is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, National Museum Of The Marine Rochefort is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most instagrammable museum in the region.

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

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Bordeaux has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Savor the flavors at JAQEN CRAFT BEER, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Arcada beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Le Mirabelle. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bordeaux tonight.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Bordeaux. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at La Comtesse, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Cock And Bull provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, The Houses Of Parliament offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in France!

Day 6 of your leisurely self-drive tour in France offers another chance for an in-depth travel experience. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from La Teste-de-Buch and continue your relaxed road trip adventure in Arcachon and Arcachon. You’ll stay in Bayonne for 2 nights.

After soaking in Bordeaux’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: La Teste-de-Buch. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 58 min. When you arrive in La Teste-de-Buch, it's time to take a break from the road.

Savor the day by heading to Beach Of La Hume, a frequently visited beach that draws visitors from near and far.

Set your GPS to Arcachon and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 14 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Arcachon beckons with new experiences!

Savor the day by heading to Le Petit Train D' Arcachon, an increasingly popular heritage railway that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Parc Mauresque, where you can soak in the stunning surroundings.

Next, explore Observatoire Sainte-cécile, yet another underrated place to see in the area.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Arcachon. This car ride takes around 14 min.

Dune Of Pilat is an interesting sand dunes we recommend visiting today. Discover its idyllic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

In Bayonne, you’ll find plenty of places to unwind after a day on the road. Our top recommendations go perfectly with your laid-back road trip in France.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Bayonne has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the town.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at JANINE, a top-rated dining spot in Bayonne. If you're in the mood for something new, try Josie Factory, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Le Belzunce. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bayonne.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Bayonne and unwind at some of the best bars in the town.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Dame Jeanne after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Café Des Pyrénées for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Kubata & Kukubat is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible, relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Bayonne!

Day 8 of your self-drive tour in France offers a chance to experience the country’s diversity. You’ll start your day in Bayonne and end it in Bordeaux. You’ll stay in Bordeaux for 1 night. Along the way, you’ll glimpse local life and explore some of the most remarkable places in France.

To truly experience Bayonne, make sure to drop by Bayonne Cathedral. This increasingly popular church is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Biarritz may take around 16 min. Upon your arrival in Biarritz, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Spend your afternoon discovering Chambre D'amour Playground, an up-and-coming playground known for its picture-perfect features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Rocher De La Vierge, a popular rock formation.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Biarritz Aquarium and uncover the details of this awe-inspiring aquarium.

Continue your laid-back road trip in France as you make your way to Bordeaux. Here, you’ll find top hotels and accommodations in the city, perfect for relaxing and recharging.

Exploring the food culture in Bordeaux offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Make sure to reserve a table at Le Comptoir Des Chats (enfants à partir de 10 ans), an iconic dining spot in Bordeaux. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Chez Dupont, a popular restaurant in Bordeaux. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Le Scopitone, a hidden gem nestled in Bordeaux. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in France.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Vintage Bar - Rhumerie & Pub, a prime location for a drink.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in France!