9-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Tours traveling south to Nantes, La Rochelle, Bordeaux, Poitiers, and Fontainebleau

1 / 103
Photo of aerial view of Tours, France.
Photo of Saint Gatien's Cathedral in Tours ,France.
9-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Tours traveling south to Nantes, La Rochelle, Bordeaux, Poitiers, and Fontainebleau
9-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Tours traveling south to Nantes, La Rochelle, Bordeaux, Poitiers, and Fontainebleau
9-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Tours traveling south to Nantes, La Rochelle, Bordeaux, Poitiers, and Fontainebleau
9-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Tours traveling south to Nantes, La Rochelle, Bordeaux, Poitiers, and Fontainebleau
9-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Tours traveling south to Nantes, La Rochelle, Bordeaux, Poitiers, and Fontainebleau
Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Included

Flights
Select dates
Hotel
Select dates
Car rental
Select dates
Tours & tickets
Select dates
Travel plan
From A to Z
Travel agent
24/7 fast service

Description

Experience the freedom of the open road on an unforgettable 9-day road trip in France! Embark on a self-drive tour that caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Tours, Nantes, La Rochelle, Fouras, Le Château-d'Oléron, Rochefort, Bordeaux, Arcachon, Le Bouscat, Lormont, Poitiers, Blois, Fontainebleau, and Blandy.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in France. You will spend 2 nights in Tours, 1 night in Nantes, 1 night in La Rochelle, 2 nights in Bordeaux, 1 night in Poitiers, and 1 night in Fontainebleau. 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 you covered.

Upon arriving in Tours, 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.

As you hit the open road and drive through Tours, Nantes, La Rochelle, Fouras, Le Château-d'Oléron, Rochefort, Bordeaux, Arcachon, Le Bouscat, Lormont, Poitiers, Blois, Fontainebleau, and Blandy, 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, accommodations, 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!

Read more

Travel details

Set your travel details to find the best price

Flights

Round trip
Round trip
Travel dates

Travelers

Rooms

Flights

Compare and choose from the best flights to Tours

Car

Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options

Driver’s age is 30 - 65
I live in
Pick-up: 10:00
Drop-off: 10:00

Personalize your itinerary

Customize tours under each day and destination

Day1

Day 1

  • Tours - Arrival day
  • More
  • Vieux-Tours
  • More

Say hello to Tours! Your exciting road trip through France is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Tours for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

Tours 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 Vieux Tours. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

When you're ready for some downtime, make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Tours. Make yourself at home and unwind before heading out again.

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 Tours, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at TIA Gourmet, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Les Bartavelles? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Hotel Restaurant Le Faisan as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Tours.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Cave À Vins Et À Bières Vins Sur 20, Bar Et Soirées À Thème offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Piraat Cafe Tours is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. L'alexandra is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Read more
Day2

Day 2

  • Tours
  • Nantes
  • More

Drive 225 km, 3 hours 14 min

  • Cathédrale Saint-Gatien
  • Parc de la Perraudière
  • Jardin botanique de Tours
  • Château de Villandry
  • More

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Tours. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Nantes, where you'll spend 1 night.

Tours Cathedral leaves a lasting impression. This church is one of the most curiosity-inducing places to visit in Tours. Next, head to Parc De La Perraudière, an often recommended park, known for its mesmerizing features.

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 Jardin Botanique De Tours. This romantic botanical garden is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Château De Villandry Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Nantes by booking a table at L’Épicurien - Abbaye de Villeneuve. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining option, venture to Les Cadets, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover LuluRouget, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Le Chat Noir, known for its inviting atmosphere. Oceania Hôtel De France Nantes is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Bar Le Cercle Rouge Nantes provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Read more
Day3

Day 3

  • Nantes
  • La Rochelle
  • More

Drive 143 km, 2 hours 43 min

  • Château des ducs de Bretagne
  • Le Lieu unique
  • Botanical Garden
  • Île de Versailles (Nantes)
  • Machines of the Isle of Nantes
  • More

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 1 place, which are Nantes. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in La Rochelle, where will spend 1 night.

Let Château Des Ducs De Bretagne set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this awe-inspiring castle before continuing your journey. Le Lieu Unique is your next stop. This intriguing cultural center is one of the best-rated sights in Nantes.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Botanical Garden. This romantic botanical garden is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Île De Versailles (nantes) and Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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. 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.

Begin your culinary exploration in La Rochelle by securing a reservation at L'Hysope. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative and modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Christopher Coutanceau, celebrated for its delectable seafood and modern menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday.

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.

Head back to your accommodation in La Rochelle and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in France.

Read more
Day4

Day 4

  • La Rochelle
  • Fouras
  • Le Château-d'Oléron
  • Rochefort
  • Bordeaux
  • More

Drive 273 km, 3 hours 52 min

  • Fouras Fort
  • Marché de Fouras
  • Citadelle du Château-d'Oléron
  • Pont Transbordeur
  • Place Colbert
  • More

On day 4 of your road trip in France, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Fouras, Le Château-d'Oléron, and Rochefort are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bordeaux, where you will stay for 2 nights.

After soaking in La Rochelle’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Fouras. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 32 min. When you arrive in Fouras, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Fouras Fort, an underrated castle in Fouras. Explore its culturally significant features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Marché De Fouras. This underrated market is a top recommendation in the area.

After soaking in Fouras’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Le Château-d'Oléron. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 47 min. When you arrive in Le Château-d'Oléron, it's time to take a break from the road.

Our first attraction recommendation in Le Château-d'Oléron is Citadelle Du Château-d'oléron, an up-and-coming castle that draws attention for its historic features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Le Château-d'Oléron and set your GPS to Rochefort. 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 35 min. Upon reaching Rochefort, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Pont Transbordeur is a curiosity-inducing historical landmark we recommend visiting today. Discover its historic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Place Colbert, a historic public square that’s well-regarded in the area.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bordeaux. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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

Have a memorable dining experience in Bordeaux by booking a table at Ressources, a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern menu. For a different culinary experience in Bordeaux, Le Pressoir d'Argent - Gordon Ramsay shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-awardee consistently earns high praises, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, La Grand'Vigne - Les Sources de Caudalie is known as a top local spot in Bordeaux for its delicious modern cuisine. This 2-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Café Brun, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Le Mushroom Café is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Whose Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

Read more
Day5

Day 5

  • Bordeaux
  • Arcachon
  • Le Bouscat
  • More

Drive 177 km, 3 hours 14 min

  • Parc Mauresque
  • Dune of Pilat
  • parc bordelais
  • The big bell of Bordeaux
  • More

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bordeaux, where you have 1 night left to stay.

Visiting The Big Bell Of Bordeaux is always a good idea. This locally appreciated historical landmark is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike.

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

Savor the day by heading to Parc Mauresque, an up-and-coming park that draws visitors from near and far.

After soaking in Bordeaux’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Arcachon. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 1 min. When you arrive in Arcachon, it's time to take a break from the road.

Savor the day by heading to Dune Of Pilat, an interesting sand dunes that draws visitors from near and far.

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

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Parc Bordelais, a worthwhile park that everyone visiting Le Bouscat should see.

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at L'Oiseau Bleu, a popular restaurant in Bordeaux. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bordeaux at Restaurant Soléna, 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 Hôtel De Sèze. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Bordeaux tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, The Grizzly Pub offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook The Dog And Duck, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Read more
Day6

Day 6

  • Bordeaux
  • Poitiers
  • More

Drive 253 km, 3 hours 9 min

  • Bordeaux Cathedral
  • place de la Bourse
  • miroir d'eau
  • Monument aux Girondins
  • jardin public
  • More

Your itinerary for day 6 of your road trip in France includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Bordeaux. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Poitiers, where you'll spend 1 night.

Bordeaux Cathedral makes a great addition to your morning plans. This captivating church is an inviting place to see in Bordeaux. Continue your discovery at Place De La Bourse, a romantic public square with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Bordeaux, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Miroir D'eau. This well-known art installation offers a romantic encounter with Bordeaux. Next, make your way to Monument Aux Girondins to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Jardin Public, an interesting park that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Bordeaux.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Poitiers, 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 Poitiers. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at La Chênaie, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an exceptional traditional menu. Alternatively, experience a taste of Poitiers at Hotel Ibis site du Futuroscope, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated.

Keep the evening going at Le Zinc, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Café Des Arts, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Le Bar Des Papas, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

Read more
Day7

Day 7

  • Poitiers
  • Blois
  • Fontainebleau
  • More

Drive 347 km, 3 hours 50 min

  • Natural History Museum
  • Château de Blois
  • Maison de la Magie Robert-Houdin
  • More

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

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Blois. This car ride takes around 1 hour 49 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Natural History Museum and explore the instagrammable features. Next, make your way to Château De Blois, another highlight in Blois. When you’re done exploring the castle, continue to Robert-houdin House Of Magic, a standout museum.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Fontainebleau. Fontainebleau offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Discover the culinary delights of Fontainebleau by securing a reservation at L'Axel. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern cuisine.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in France.

Read more
Day8

Day 8

  • Fontainebleau
  • Blandy
  • Tours
  • More

Drive 301 km, 3 hours 36 min

  • Diana Garden
  • Palace of Fontainebleau
  • Blandy Castle
  • More

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Fontainebleau and Blandy. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Tours, where you'll spend 1 night.

Make time for Diana Garden, an often recommended park that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Palace Of Fontainebleau, enchanting visitors with its enchanting appeal.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Fontainebleau, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Blandy. This drive usually takes around 39 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Blandy is Blandy Castle, a frequently visited castle that draws attention for its enchanting features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Tours. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

Tours is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Tours.

Start your culinary exploration in Tours by securing a reservation at L'Opidom. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative and modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit L'Évidence, celebrated for its delectable creative and modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Café Bar Jazz Le Strapontin, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Le P Tit Soleil. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at La Belle Époque, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Read more
Day9

Day 9

  • Tours - Departure day
  • More
  • Prébendes d'Oé Garden
  • More

Day 9 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Tours 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 Prébendes D'oé Garden. This up-and-coming park is a hotspot among locals.

Take some time to indulge in shopping at Tours’s popular marketplace, Rue Nationale. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. Wrap up your shopping with a drink and some pastries at a cozy cafe.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Au Fût et à mesure, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Café Bistrot Restaurant Le Vieux Mûrier offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Tours. 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!

Read more

How it works

Book your journey with Europe’s biggest travel platform—expert itineraries, instant confirmation, and full flexibility with 24/7 support.

Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

We guarantee

Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

Similar travel packages

Discover other popular vacations in France

Link to appstore phone
Install Europe’s biggest travel app

Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.