9-Day France Road Trip from La Rochelle to Bordeaux, Nantes, Saint-brieuc, and Rennes and surrounding area

Welcome to La Rochelle, the perfect starting point for your road trip in France! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in La Rochelle's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

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 Botanical Garden or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in La Rochelle. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in France. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at La Boussole, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Restaurant Les Flots offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Palem Café is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in La Rochelle.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Mac Ewan's Pub, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Le Plan B provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Le Dock Café offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, La Rochelle and La Conche. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bordeaux, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Grosse Horloge. Previous visitors have rated this city gate an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 441 reviews.

Charruyer Park of La Rochelle is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 5,404 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Bunker La Rochelle (Museum). This museum is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 2,071 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in La Conche. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 33 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Chassiron lighthouse, a remarkable lighthouse where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 18,221 reviews. Each year, this popular place of interest welcomes approximately 164,000 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Bordeaux, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore 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.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at L'Oiseau Bleu, 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 Restaurant Le Plana, 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 Confidentiel, a hidden gem nestled in Bordeaux. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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 Bar à Vin, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, La Comtesse provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

On day 3 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Bordeaux. You’ll stay in Bordeaux for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Make amphitheatre of Bordeaux one of your first sightseeing stops in Bordeaux. Rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,563 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Jardin public is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This urban park is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 12,341 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Monument aux Girondins. This column has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,483 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to place de la Bourse. A trip to this popular square is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.6 out of 5-star rating as given by 16,251 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is miroir d'eau. This reflecting pool enjoys an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 14,462 local and international travelers.

Immerse yourself in the local scene through top-rated tours and activities. You can choose from a wide variety of easy to challenging tours and easily add them to your travel package below.

As you explore more of Bordeaux, 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at JAQEN CRAFT BEER, a top-rated dining destination in Bordeaux. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Le Comptoir Des Chats (enfants à partir de 10 ans), another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Chez Dupont. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bordeaux this evening.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. The Cock And Bull is an excellent place to start. You could also check out The Houses Of Parliament, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is VINTAGE BAR - Rhumerie & Pub. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!

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 Biarritz.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bordeaux, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Biarritz. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 20 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Sainte-Eugénie Church of Biarritz. This church is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,472 visitors.

When you’re finished at Sainte-Eugénie Church of Biarritz, head to Rocher de la vierge. This one-of-a-kind rock is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 14,700 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Biarritz Aquarium. This aquarium is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 13,072 visitors.

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

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Sherlock Holmes Pub, a top-rated dining destination in Bordeaux. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider suzzi, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Molly Malone's. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bordeaux this evening.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Nantes. 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 1 night.

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 Nantes. Your travel time is around 3 hours 21 min.

Drop by the renowned Château des ducs de Bretagne. This popular museum has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 18,724 visitors. Based on recent data, this attraction is visited by more than 167,867 travelers every year.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Machines of the Isle of Nantes. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 33,332 visitors, this art project deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Botanical Garden. This park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 14,694 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Île de Versailles (Nantes). This river island and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,112 local and international travelers.

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

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

Make sure to book a table at Gigg's Irish Pub, a popular restaurant in Nantes. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Nantes at Le 1, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is L'instinct gourmand. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Nantes tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Le Chat noir is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Oceania Hôtel de France Nantes, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Bar Le Cercle Rouge Nantes. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

On day 6 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 Bois Charmé and Le Ménec. In the evening, you’ll end up in Saint-brieuc, where you will stay for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Bois Charmé, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Le Ménec may take around 49 min. Upon your arrival in Le Ménec, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Zoo and Botanical Garden of Branféré. This zoo is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,625 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Bois Charmé, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Le Ménec. Your travel time is around 49 min.

Make Carnac stones your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this archaeological site an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 15,035 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Saint-brieuc, 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 Saint-brieuc. 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.

Savor the flavors at Rest'O Bar, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Le Quai Gourmand beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restaurant de La Croix Blanche. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Saint-brieuc tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Le Kalbar, a top-rated bar in the area.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Saint-Malo and La Ville Huchet, 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 Rennes. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Saint-Malo. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 8 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like National Fort. This extraordinary point of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,045 visitors.

Next, make your way to Saint-Malo Intra-Muros. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,947 reviews.

While in Saint-Malo, we also recommend a visit to Grand Bé. This tidal island has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,344 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Big Gate. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,288 travelers, this sightseeing destination is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Saint-Malo.

After soaking in Saint-Malo’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: La Ville Huchet. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 11 min. When you arrive in La Ville Huchet, it's time to take a break from the road.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Grand Aquarium Saint Malo. Previous visitors have rated this aquarium an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars in 16,369 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Rennes, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Rennes.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Fuji Restaurant, a top-rated dining spot in Rennes. If you're in the mood for something new, try La Réserve, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Bar À Cocktails Le Irish Pub Shamrock. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Rennes.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at La Cité d'Ys, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to L'Annexe. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Tiffany's Pub Rennes, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Angers. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in La Rochelle. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Rennes and set your GPS to Angers. 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 1 hour 34 min. Upon reaching Angers, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Château d'Angers. Previous visitors have rated this château an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 14,556 reviews.

Angers Cathedral is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,932 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Galerie David d'Angers. This art museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 538 reviews. Every year, around 25,264 travelers visit this site to discover its unique features.

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

As you explore more of La Rochelle, 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 Christopher Coutanceau, a highly-rated dining destination in La Rochelle. If you're eager to try something different, consider LE JARDIN DU MARCHÉ, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Chat’Ren’Thé - CatCoffee & Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in La Rochelle this evening.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Le Mary Lili, known for its lively atmosphere. L'Alibi is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Le Saint-Nicolas Hôtel La Rochelle offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!

Day 9 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.

On your last day in France, take time to indulge in shopping at La Rochelle’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, the city’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of France. Each store here is brimming with unique finds. These souvenirs will help you treasure your memories of France forever.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at fontaine du Pilori. This landmark is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 37 visitors.

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

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Famous Pub, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

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!