9-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from La Rochelle traveling east to Bordeaux, Bergerac, and Tours
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 9-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 3 nights in La Rochelle, 2 nights in Bordeaux, 2 nights in Bergerac, and 1 night in Tours. 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 La Rochelle, 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. Château De Chambord and Château De Chenonceau are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Château D'amboise, learn more about the unique La Cité Du Vin, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Place De La Bourse.
As you hit the open road and drive through La Rochelle, Lormont, Bordeaux, Montignac-Lascaux, Beynac-et-Cazenac, Bergerac, Castelnaud-la-Chapelle, La Roque-Gageac, Monbazillac, Tours, Langeais, and Amboise, 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- La Rochelle - Arrival day
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- Charruyer Park of La Rochelle
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Your road trip adventure in France begins as soon as you reach La Rochelle and pick up your car. You’ll stay in La Rochelle for 2 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.
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 Charruyer Park Of La Rochelle, 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 La Rochelle. 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 La Rochelle, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Make sure to reserve a table at La Côte Rôtie, an iconic dining spot in La Rochelle. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of La Boussole, a popular restaurant in La Rochelle. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Les hédonistes, a hidden gem nestled in La Rochelle. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Mac Ewan's Pub, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Le Cadre is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Le Plan B also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in France!
Day 2
- La Rochelle
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Drive 3 km, 40 min
- Musée maritime de La Rochelle
- La Rochelle Aquarium
- Saint Saviour Church of La Rochelle
- Cloister Of The White Ladies
- Bunker La Rochelle (Museum)
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On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore La Rochelle. You’ll stay in La Rochelle for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in La Rochelle, including a maritime museum, an aquarium, a church, a monument, a museum and much more! Start your day with a visit to Musée Maritime De La Rochelle. This beloved maritime museum is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to La Rochelle Aquarium, which may be one of the most instagrammable 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 Saint Saviour Church Of La Rochelle, an up-and-coming church in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Cloister Of The White Ladies and Bunker La Rochelle (museum).
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.
Bring home unique finds from La Rochelle's bustling shopping hub, Rue du Palais. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique boutiques and stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Rue du Palais offers plenty of options, including primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.
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 lovely meal at Restaurant Les Flots, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Palem Café is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Christopher Coutanceau. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in La Rochelle tonight.
Keep the evening going at Le Dock Café, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Le Mary Lili, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is L'alibi, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!
Day 3
- La Rochelle
- Bordeaux
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Drive 194 km, 2 hours 54 min
- Cité du Vin
- Porte Cailhau
- miroir d'eau
- place de la Bourse
- Monument aux Girondins
- jardin public
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Lormont and Bordeaux. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bordeaux. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today's adventure in La Rochelle promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at La Cité Du Vin. This instagrammable museum is a highlight of any visit in the town. Then, enjoy Porte Cailhau, another visually striking attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Miroir D'eau, one of the town’s most well-known attractions, known for its romantic features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Place De La Bourse. This visually striking public square is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Monument Aux Girondins, a worthwhile monument, and take a stroll around the area.
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.
Savor the flavors at Le Cent 33, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, L'Originel beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Le Clemenceau. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bordeaux tonight.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Café Brun, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Le Mushroom Café. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Whose Bar, another top-rated place in the area.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.
Day 4
- Bordeaux
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Drive 4 km, 39 min
- Basilica of St. Michael, Bordeaux
- Musée d'Aquitaine tram stop
- Tour Pey-Berland
- Bordeaux Cathedral
- Bordeaux Museum of Fine Arts
- Rue Sainte-Catherine
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Day 4 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Bordeaux for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Rue Sainte-Catherine is a street that stands out as one of the must-see places in Bordeaux. Take a moment to explore its distinct atmosphere, and don’t miss the popular sightseeing spots just a short walk away.
Get ready for an exciting day in Bordeaux. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a church, a museum, and a monument. Begin your adventure at Basilica Of St. Michael, Bordeaux. This is an often recommended church you should not miss. Another must-see is Musée D'aquitaine Tram Stop, an increasingly popular museum in Bordeaux.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Tour Pey-berland. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Bordeaux Cathedral, another of the city’s interesting attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Bordeaux Museum Of Fine Arts, a historic place of interest in the city.
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.
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.
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.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux, known for its lively atmosphere. The Grizzly Pub is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, The Dog And Duck offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
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.
Day 5
- Bordeaux
- Bergerac
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Drive 286 km, 4 hours 6 min
- Lascaux International Center of Parietal Art
- Lascaux 2
- Château de Beynac
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Montignac-Lascaux and Beynac-et-Cazenac. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bergerac, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Bordeaux, including a museum, a cave, and a castle. Start your day at Lascaux International Center Of Parietal Art. This UNESCO world heritage-designated museum is a captivating place to see in Bordeaux. Then, wander over to Lascaux. If majestic sites excite you, this cave will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Château De Beynac. This enchanting castle is a favorite among visitors.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bergerac. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Bergerac's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Make sure to reserve a table at Signorizza Bergerac, an iconic dining spot in Bergerac. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of L'Imparfait, a popular restaurant in Bergerac. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of V and B Bergerac, a hidden gem nestled in Bergerac. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Say good night to Bergerac and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!
Day 6
- Bergerac
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Drive 148 km, 2 hours 52 min
- Castelnaud-la-Chapelle Castle
- The Marqueyssac gardens
- Tourism House and Wine Monbazillac
- Château de Monbazillac
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Wake up to day 6 of your extraordinary road trip in France. With 1 night left in Bergerac, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the town’s surroundings!
Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in the charming village of Bergerac. Your adventure starts at Castelnaud-la-chapelle Castle, a popular local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is The Marqueyssac Gardens. This locally renowned botanical garden is known for its enchanting appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Bergerac's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Tourism House And Wine Monbazillac. This romantic winery offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Château De Monbazillac is also worth visiting.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Bergerac and your accommodation.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Bergerac's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Make sure to reserve a table at restaurant Le Saint Jacques, an iconic dining spot in Bergerac. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Cyrano's sins, a popular restaurant in Bergerac. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Access - TotalEnergies, a hidden gem nestled in Bergerac. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!
Day 7
- Bergerac
- Tours
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Drive 381 km, 4 hours 50 min
- Château de Villandry
- Château de Langeais
- Cathédrale Saint-Gatien
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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 Tours and Langeais. In the evening, you’ll end up in Tours, where you will stay for 1 night.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Bergerac, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at Château De Villandry, a locally renowned castle in the city. Then, head to Château De Langeais and soak in the ambiance of this culturally significant castle.
There are many interesting places to see in Bergerac and when you are ready for more, go to Tours Cathedral. This is one of the city’s most locally appreciated spots.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Tours. Tours offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As you explore more of Tours, 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 lovely dining experience at TIA Gourmet, a popular restaurant in Tours. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Tours at Les Bartavelles, 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 Hotel Restaurant Le Faisan. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Tours tonight.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Cave À Vins Et À Bières Vins Sur 20, Bar Et Soirées À Thème, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Piraat Cafe Tours offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Tours. L'alexandra is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!
Day 8
- Tours
- La Rochelle
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Drive 408 km, 5 hours 4 min
- Château de Chambord
- Château d'Amboise
- Château de Chenonceau
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On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Amboise. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in La Rochelle, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Tours. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await. Château De Chambord is the perfect place to start. This castle is one of the most interesting places to visit in Tours.
In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Château De Chenonceau. This awe-inspiring castle offers a unique experience that is highly recommended.
At the end of the day, you will drive to La Rochelle, 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 La Rochelle. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Don’t miss out on dining at La Plage, a top-rated dining destination in La Rochelle. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider LE JARDIN DU MARCHÉ, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Les copains d'abord. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in La Rochelle this evening.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Le Saint-nicolas Hôtel La Rochelle, known for its inviting atmosphere. Académie De La Bière is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Lili La Rochelle provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!
Day 9
- La Rochelle - Departure day
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- Grosse Horloge
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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 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.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Grosse Horloge. This often recommended monument is a popular place to see in the city.
Maximize your last day in France and go on a shopping spree in La Rochelle’s shopping center, the lively Les Minimes Marina. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in France.
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 Le Bistrot de Mémé, 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!
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