9-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bordeaux traveling west to Nantes, Vannes, and La Rochelle

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Photo of Place de la Bourse in Bordeaux, France.
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Explore the best of France on a 9-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Bordeaux, Lormont, Biarritz, Arcachon, Nantes, Vannes, Suscinio, La Rochelle, Fouras, and Le Château-d'Oléron. This road trip itinerary in France seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in France takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 5 nights in Bordeaux, 1 night in Nantes, 1 night in Vannes, and 1 night in La Rochelle. 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 Bordeaux, 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. Dune Of Pilat and Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable La Cité Du Vin, learn more about the unique Château Des Ducs De Bretagne, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Chassiron Lighthouse.

As you hit the open road and drive through Bordeaux, Lormont, Biarritz, Arcachon, Nantes, Vannes, Suscinio, La Rochelle, Fouras, and Le Château-d'Oléron, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Monument aux Girondins
Bordeaux CathedralThe big bell of Bordeauxplace de la Boursemiroir d'eauCité du Vin
Chambre D'Amour PlaygroundRocher de la viergeBiarritz Aquarium
La Pointe Aux ChevauxPlage de l'océanParc MauresqueObservatoire Sainte-CécileDune of Pilat
Botanical GardenChâteau des ducs de BretagneLe Lieu uniqueReflecting pool
Île de Versailles (Nantes)Machines of the Isle of Nantesparc de ProcéCarnac stonesCôte Sauvage

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Bordeaux - Arrival day
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  • Monument aux Girondins
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Your road trip adventure in France begins as soon as you reach Bordeaux and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Bordeaux for 4 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Bordeaux 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 Monument Aux Girondins, 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 Bordeaux. 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 Bordeaux, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Café Brun stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Le Mushroom Café offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Whose Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in France!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Bordeaux
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Drive 11 km, 1 hour 2 min

  • Bordeaux Cathedral
  • The big bell of Bordeaux
  • place de la Bourse
  • miroir d'eau
  • Cité du Vin
  • More

On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bordeaux, where you'll stay for 3 nights more.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Bordeaux, including a church, a historical landmark, a public square, an art installation, a museum and much more! Start your day at Bordeaux Cathedral. This inviting church is a captivating place to see in Bordeaux. Then, wander over to The Big Bell Of Bordeaux. If culturally significant sites excite you, this historical landmark will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Place De La Bourse. This enchanting public square 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, Miroir D'eau is a locally renowned spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the art installation, don’t forget to check out the visually striking La Cité Du Vin. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this interesting museum.

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 delicious dinner at L'Oiseau Bleu, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurant Soléna offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Hôtel De Sèze. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bordeaux.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out The Grizzly Pub, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, The Dog And Duck provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Head back to your accommodation in Bordeaux and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Bordeaux
  • More

Drive 403 km, 4 hours 48 min

  • Chambre D'Amour Playground
  • Rocher de la vierge
  • Biarritz Aquarium
  • More

On day 3 of your road trip in France, you’ll start and end your day in Bordeaux, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Bordeaux for 2 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Biarritz to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Bordeaux, including a playground, a rock formation, and an aquarium. Start your day with a visit to Chambre D'amour Playground. This increasingly popular playground is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Rocher De La Vierge, which may be one of the most serene places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Bordeaux 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 Biarritz Aquarium, a popular aquarium in the town.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Locadillos, a highly-rated dining destination in Bordeaux. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurant Le Plana, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Blind. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bordeaux this evening.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Casey's Pub, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Le Bar À Vin, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Thecity likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Bordeaux
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Drive 160 km, 4 hours 14 min

  • La Pointe Aux Chevaux
  • Plage de l'océan
  • Parc Mauresque
  • Observatoire Sainte-Cécile
  • Dune of Pilat
  • More

Greet day 4 of your road trip in France with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Bordeaux for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Arcachon.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Bordeaux, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at La Pointe Aux Chevaux, an often recommended beach in the city. Then, head to Plage De L'océan and soak in the ambiance of this serene beach.

There are many interesting places to see in Bordeaux, and when you are ready for more, go to Parc Mauresque. This is one of the city’s most beloved mesmerizing spots of interest. After exploring the park, visit the curiosity-inducing Observatoire Sainte-cécile. Not far away, you'll also find Dune Of Pilat. This sand dunes is an eye-catching highlight in Bordeaux.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Le Confidentiel, 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 Le Chicoula Bistrot d'art, 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 Loco By Jem's, a hidden gem nestled in Bordeaux. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Lord Lion Bar Pub, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Bar Notre Dame offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Bordeaux. L'engrenage is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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 5

Day 5

  • Bordeaux
  • Nantes
  • More

Drive 356 km, 3 hours 58 min

  • Botanical Garden
  • Château des ducs de Bretagne
  • Le Lieu unique
  • Reflecting pool
  • 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 Nantes. In the evening, you’ll end up in Nantes, where you will stay for 1 night.

Bordeaux is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at Botanical Garden, a popular botanical garden that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Château Des Ducs De Bretagne, enchanting visitors with its stunning appeal. Continue your exploration at Le Lieu Unique. This cultural center is one of the city’s most underrated spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Bordeaux at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Miroir D'eau.

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.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Gigg's Irish Pub, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, L'Aménité - Restaurant Nantes is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Le Parallèle. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Nantes tonight.

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.

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Nantes
  • Vannes
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Drive 212 km, 3 hours 28 min

  • Île de Versailles (Nantes)
  • Machines of the Isle of Nantes
  • parc de Procé
  • Carnac stones
  • Côte Sauvage
  • More

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Nantes, Le Ménec, and Kervozès. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Vannes, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Île De Versailles (nantes). This frequently visited park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Parc De Procé, one of the most intriguing places to see in Nantes. This park is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Carnac Stones. Wander around and soak in the historic atmosphere this archeological site offers. Then, head to Côte Sauvage, a top-rated cliff that adds another dimension to your day.

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

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

Dine in style at Le Piano Barge, a top recommendation for dinner tonight.

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

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Vannes
  • La Rochelle
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Drive 282 km, 3 hours 52 min

  • Remparts de Vannes
  • Suscinio Castle
  • Zoo and Botanical Garden of Branféré
  • More

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Vannes, Suscinio, and Bois Charmé, 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 La Rochelle. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Vannes allows for both. Start by heading to Remparts De Vannes. This curiosity-inducing historical landmark provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Suscinio Castle, a romantic castle, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Zoo And Botanical Garden Of Branféré, an increasingly popular zoo.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at La Côte Rôtie, a top-rated dining destination in La Rochelle. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Boussole, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Les hédonistes. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in La Rochelle this evening.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Mac Ewan's Pub. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Le Cadre offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Le Plan B, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

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Day 8

Day 8

  • La Rochelle
  • Bordeaux
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Drive 302 km, 4 hours 43 min

  • Marché de Fouras
  • Fouras Fort
  • Citadelle du Château-d'Oléron
  • Chassiron lighthouse
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Fouras and Le Château-d'Oléron. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bordeaux, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in La Rochelle, including a market, a castle, and a lighthouse. Start your day with a visit to Marché De Fouras. This curiosity-inducing market is a must-visit in the village. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Fouras Fort, which may be one of the most breathtaking 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 Citadelle Du Château-d'oléron, an intriguing castle in the village. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Chassiron Lighthouse.

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.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at JAQEN CRAFT BEER, 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 Arcada, 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 Mirabelle, a hidden gem nestled in Bordeaux. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting La Comtesse after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Cock And Bull, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, The Houses Of Parliament also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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 9

Day 9

  • Bordeaux - Departure day
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  • jardin public
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Day 9 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Bordeaux 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 Jardin Public. This locally renowned park is a popular place to see in the city.

Make the most of your final day in France by visiting Bordeaux’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Rue Sainte-Catherine. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in France.

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

You’ll then say farewell to Bordeaux. 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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