9-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Pau traveling north to Angouleme, Orléans, Paris, Rennes, and La Rochelle

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 1 vibrant destinations - Versailles. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Paris. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Versailles’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Orléans behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 27 min. Versailles welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Versailles Cathedral is an underrated church we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its culturally significant features before continuing your self-guided tour to Gardens Of Versailles, a romantic botanical garden that’s well-regarded in the area. Next, stop by Palace Of Versailles, a visually striking palace. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Grand Trianon, an enchanting and truly unique palace. End your sightseeing at Marie-antoinette's Estate, an underrated palace that’s highly recommended by travelers passing through the town.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Paris, 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 Paris's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Mumi, a highly-rated dining destination in Paris. If you're eager to try something different, consider Beaurepaire Ambassade du Béarn - Restaurant Paris Terrasse, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at L'Imprévu Café. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Paris this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Café De Paris V offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Dirty Dick is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Little Red Door is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

On day 5 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Paris. You’ll stay in Paris for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Paris is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views! Start at Sacré-cœur, an iconic church that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Place De La Concorde, enchanting visitors with its romantic appeal. Continue your exploration at Arc De Triomphe. This monument is one of the city’s most world-famous spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Paris at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Eiffel Tower. After exploring the monument, head to the globally renowned Champ De Mars. This park will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour 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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Paris. 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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Le Marais Restaurant Paris, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Le Sens Unique is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Le Caveau de l'isle. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Paris tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Prescription Cocktail Club, known for its inviting atmosphere. Le Boucan is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Mamie Paris provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Paris, 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.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Paris, including a museum, a park, and a monument. Start your day at Louvre Museum. This historic museum is a timeless place to see in Paris. Then, wander over to Tuileries Garden. If detailed sites excite you, this park will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Panthéon. This picture-perfect monument is a favorite among visitors.

Paris offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Jardin Du Luxembourg is a spectacular spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Rennes. 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 Rennes. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restaurant Le Loup, a popular restaurant in Rennes. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Rennes at Restaurant IMA, 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 La Taverne. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Rennes tonight.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at La Cité D'ys, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, L'annexe offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Tiffany's Pub Rennes. 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.

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Nantes. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in La Rochelle, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Nantes and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 21 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Nantes beckons with new experiences!

Your self-guided tour starts at Île De Versailles (nantes), an increasingly popular park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Botanical Garden and admire its serene features. When you’re ready, continue to Château Des Ducs De Bretagne, a notable castle beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit.

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 La Rochelle. La Rochelle 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 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.

Dine in style at La Côte Rôtie, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, La Boussole boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Les hédonistes. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in La Rochelle.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Mac Ewan's Pub, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Le Cadre, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Le Plan B likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

On day 8 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 Bordeaux. In the evening, you’ll end up in Pau, where you will stay for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Bordeaux today.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to La Rochelle and set your GPS to Bordeaux. 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 55 min. Upon reaching Bordeaux, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Spend your afternoon discovering Jardin Public, a captivating park known for its noteworthy features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Monument Aux Girondins, an often recommended monument that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region. Next, stop by Place De La Bourse and uncover the details of this UNESCO world heritage-designated public square. Make sure to also explore Miroir D'eau, an interesting art installation that offers a unique experience.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Pau, 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 Pau's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Resto Dit Vin, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant L' Ardoise? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Little Monkey Bar as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Pau.

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