9-Day France Road Trip from La Rochelle traveling south to Perigueux, Toulouse, Narbonne, Nimes, Carcassonne, and Bordeaux
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 9-day road trip through France. Explore the diverse landscapes and local cultures of La Rochelle, Saint-Émilion, Perigueux, Martel, Padirac, Rocamadour, Toulouse, Carcassonne, Lastours, Narbonne, Arles, Les Baux-de-Provence, Nimes, Montpellier, Bordeaux, and Lormont. 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 2 nights in La Rochelle, 1 night in Perigueux, 1 night in Toulouse, 1 night in Narbonne, 1 night in Nimes, 1 night in Carcassonne, and 1 night in Bordeaux. 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. Cité de Carcassonne and Pont du Gard are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through La Rochelle, Saint-Émilion, Perigueux, Martel, Padirac, Rocamadour, Toulouse, Carcassonne, Lastours, Narbonne, Arles, Les Baux-de-Provence, Nimes, Montpellier, Bordeaux, and Lormont, 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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Day 1 – La Rochelle - arrival day
- La Rochelle - Arrival day
- More
- Grosse Horloge
- More
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 Grosse Horloge 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.
Make sure to book a table at La Boussole, a popular restaurant in La Rochelle. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of La Rochelle at Restaurant Les Flots, 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 Palem Café. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to La Rochelle tonight.
Continue your lively evening at Mac Ewan's Pub, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Le Plan B is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Le Dock Café ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in France!
Day 2 – La Rochelle, Saint-Émilion, and Perigueux
- Périgueux
- La Rochelle
- Saint-Émilion
- More
Drive 308 km, 3 hours 46 min
- Musée maritime de La Rochelle
- La Rochelle Aquarium
- Monolithic Church of Saint-Emilion
- More
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 La Rochelle, and Saint-Émilion. In the evening, you’ll end up in Perigueux, where you will stay for 1 night.
Take the opportunity to see Musée maritime de La Rochelle. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,865 visitors.
La Rochelle Aquarium is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This aquarium has been rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 6,656 travelers.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Saint-Émilion, 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 La Rochelle to Saint-Émilion may take around 2 hours 10 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Saint-Émilion, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Make Monolithic Church of Saint-Emilion one of your first sightseeing stops in Saint-Émilion. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,946 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Perigueux, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the town.
As you explore more of Perigueux, 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.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!
Day 3 – Perigueux, Martel, Padirac, Rocamadour, and Toulouse
- Toulouse
- Martel
- Padirac
- Rocamadour
- More
Drive 315 km, 4 hours 1 min
- Padirac Cave
- More
Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Martel, Padirac, and Rocamadour. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Toulouse, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
When you’ve had your share of Perigueux, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Martel. Your travel time is around 1 hour 17 min.
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Railway Tourist Haut Quercy. This sightseeing destination is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Martel, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,626 visitors.
After soaking in Martel’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Padirac. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 27 min. When you arrive in Padirac, it's time to take a break from the road.
An excellent attraction to start your day with is Padirac Cave. This pit cave is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 25,172 reviews.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Toulouse, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Toulouse's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Le May, a highly-rated dining destination in Toulouse. If you're eager to try something different, consider L*Agence, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Perche Pinte. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Toulouse this evening.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Moloko. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to The Botanist Pub, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Melting Pot Pub provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
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 4 – Toulouse, Carcassonne, Lastours, and Narbonne
- Narbonne
- Carcassonne
- Lastours
- More
Drive 196 km, 2 hours 52 min
- Château comtal de Carcassonne
- Les Quatre Châteaux de Lastours
- Cité de Carcassonne
- Porte de l'Aude
- More
Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Carcassonne, and Lastours. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Narbonne. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Carcassonne. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 8 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Journey into the unknown at Château Comtal, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable castle has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 8,823 reviews.
When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Cité de Carcassonne is a recommended place to visit. This fortress is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 76,968 reviews.
Another must-see attraction in Carcassonne is Porte de l'Aude. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 362 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Carcassonne offers an experience you will remember.
Basilique Saint Nazaire is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Carcassonne. This church promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,146 reviews.
Lastours welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Take the opportunity to see Les Quatre Châteaux de Lastours. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,293 visitors.
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 Narbonne. Narbonne 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 long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Narbonne. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Les Halles de Narbonne, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight.
Head back to your accommodation in Narbonne and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!
Day 5 – Narbonne, Arles, Les Baux-de-Provence, and Nimes
- Nîmes
- Arles
- Les Baux-de-Provence
- More
Drive 269 km, 4 hours 5 min
- Arles Amphitheatre
- More
On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Arles, and Les Baux-de-Provence. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Nimes, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Narbonne and set your GPS to Arles. 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 51 min. Upon reaching Arles, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
An excellent attraction to start your day with is Roman Theatre of Arles. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,900 reviews.
Continue your journey at Arles Amphitheatre. This roman amphitheatre is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 13,060 travelers from near and far.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Les Baux-de-Provence.
A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Château des Baux-de-Provence. Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 13,346 reviews.
Carrières des Lumières is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 22,791 reviews.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Nimes, 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 Nimes. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Make sure to reserve a table at La Galerie, an iconic dining spot in Nimes. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Annaba Café, a popular restaurant in Nimes. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Hôtel des Tuileries, a hidden gem nestled in Nimes. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at La bonne mousse after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to O’Flaherty’s for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, News Café is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.
Day 6 – Nimes, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, Montpellier, and Carcassonne
- Carcassonne
- Nîmes
- Montpellier
- More
Drive 277 km, 3 hours 52 min
- Jardin de La Fontaine
- Pont du Gard
- Arc de Triomphe
- esplanade Charles de Gaulle
- Comedy Square
- More
Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Nimes, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, and Montpellier, 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 Carcassonne. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
An excellent attraction to start your day with is Jardin de La Fontaine. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 15,878 reviews.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Nimes, you’ll hit the road in the direction of La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. This drive usually takes around 40 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Journey into the unknown at Pont du Gard, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable arch bridge has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 29,439 reviews.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Carcassonne, 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 Carcassonne's best restaurants.
Make sure to book a table at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a popular restaurant in Carcassonne. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Carcassonne at La Rapière, 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 Le Domaine d'Auriac. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Carcassonne tonight.
Say good night to Carcassonne and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!
Day 7 – Carcassonne, Toulouse, and Bordeaux
- Bordeaux
- Toulouse
- More
Drive 338 km, 3 hours 53 min
- Jardin des Plantes
- Basilica of St. Sernin
- miroir d'eau
- place de la Bourse
- More
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 Toulouse, and Bordeaux. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bordeaux, where you will stay for 1 night.
After soaking in Carcassonne’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Toulouse. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 6 min. When you arrive in Toulouse, it's time to take a break from the road.
Make Jardin des Plantes one of your first sightseeing stops in Toulouse. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 9,847 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.
Basilica of St. Sernin is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This minor basilica is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,287 reviews.
Set your GPS to Bordeaux and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 22 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bordeaux beckons with new experiences!
Your sightseeing of the day begins at miroir d'eau, a remarkable reflecting pool where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 14,462 reviews.
Next, satisfy your wanderlust at place de la Bourse. This square has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 16,251 travelers.
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 Bordeaux. Bordeaux 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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bordeaux. 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 Le Cent 33, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Le Clemenceau offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, L'Oiseau Bleu is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bordeaux.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Café Brun, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Le Mushroom Café offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Whose bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.
Day 8 – Bordeaux, Lormont, and La Rochelle
- La Rochelle
- Bordeaux
- Lormont
- More
Drive 191 km, 2 hours 50 min
- Bordeaux Cathedral
- The big bell of Bordeaux
- Monument aux Girondins
- jardin public
- Cité du Vin
- 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 Bordeaux, and Lormont. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in La Rochelle, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Bordeaux Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 10,591 visitors.
The big bell of Bordeaux is another popular attraction you could visit today. This bell tower has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,871 visitors.
Monument aux Girondins is also highly recommended by travelers. This column has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,483 visitors.
Jardin public is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This urban park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 12,341 reviews.
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 Lormont. Your travel time is around 10 min.
Kick off the day at La Cité du Vin, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This museum is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 21,487 reviews.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to La Rochelle, 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 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 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 Le Chat’Ren’Thé - CatCoffee & Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfied 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 Mary Lili, known for its inviting atmosphere. L'Alibi is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Le Saint-Nicolas Hôtel La Rochelle provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!
Day 9 – La Rochelle - departure day
- La Rochelle - Departure day
- More
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.
As your final day in France unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in La Rochelle's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to France.
Take the opportunity to see Charruyer Park of La Rochelle. This attraction has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 5,404 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.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Le Bistrot de Mémé, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try The Famous Pub? It's another excellent option with a diverse 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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