One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Tours traveling south to Angouleme, Bordeaux, La Rochelle, Nantes, and Angers
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Description
Explore the best of France on a 8-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Tours, Angouleme, Lormont, Bordeaux, Le Bouscat, Arcachon, La Rochelle, Nantes, Angers, Amboise, and Blois. This road trip itinerary in France seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
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 Tours, 1 night in Angouleme, 1 night in Bordeaux, 1 night in La Rochelle, 1 night in Nantes, and 1 night in Angers. 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 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. Puy Du Fou and Dune Of Pilat are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Château De Chenonceau, learn more about the unique Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Château D'amboise.
As you hit the open road and drive through Tours, Angouleme, Lormont, Bordeaux, Le Bouscat, Arcachon, La Rochelle, Nantes, Angers, Amboise, and Blois, 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
- Tours - Arrival day
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- Prébendes d'Oé Garden
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Welcome to Tours, 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 Tours's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
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 Prébendes D'oé 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 Tours. 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. 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 delicious dinner at TIA Gourmet, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Les Bartavelles offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Hotel Restaurant Le Faisan. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice 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 8-day road trip in France!
Day 2
- Tours
- Angoulême
- More
Drive 257 km, 3 hours 40 min
- Cathédrale Saint-Gatien
- Jardin botanique de Tours
- Château de Villandry
- More
On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Tours. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Angouleme, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Today’s itinerary in Tours covers several incredible sights, including a church, a botanical garden, and a castle. Start your adventure at Tours Cathedral. This curiosity-inducing church is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the eye-catching wonders of Jardin Botanique De Tours, a must-see botanical garden in the city.
Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Château De Villandry. This well-known castle offers an enriching experience.
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 Angouleme. Angouleme 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 you explore more of Angouleme, 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.
Head back to your accommodation in Angouleme and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!
Day 3
- Angoulême
- Lormont
- Bordeaux
- More
Drive 126 km, 2 hours 13 min
- Cité du Vin
- place de la Bourse
- miroir d'eau
- Monument aux Girondins
- jardin public
- More
On day 3 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 Lormont and Bordeaux. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bordeaux, where you will stay for 1 night.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Angouleme, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Lormont may take around 1 hour 23 min. Upon your arrival in Lormont, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Head to La Cité Du Vin, a popular museum in Lormont. Explore its enchanting features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Bordeaux, 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 Lormont to Bordeaux may take around 17 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Bordeaux, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Spend your afternoon discovering Place De La Bourse, a captivating public square known for its grand features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Miroir D'eau, a well-known art installation that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region. Next, stop by Monument Aux Girondins and uncover the details of this picture-perfect monument. Make sure to also explore Jardin Public, a locally renowned park that offers a unique experience.
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 day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Bordeaux's best restaurants.
Dine in style at Le Cent 33, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, L'Originel boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Le Clemenceau. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bordeaux.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Café Brun, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Le Mushroom Café provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Whose Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!
Day 4
- Bordeaux
- Le Bouscat
- Arcachon
- La Rochelle
- More
Drive 324 km, 3 hours 59 min
- parc bordelais
- Bordeaux Cathedral
- Dune of Pilat
- More
Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Le Bouscat, Bordeaux, and Arcachon, 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 La Rochelle. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in Bordeaux. Begin your sightseeing with Bordeaux Cathedral. This notable church is one of the top attractions in the town.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Parc Bordelais, a beloved park that draws visitors 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 Arcachon. This drive usually takes around 1 hour, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Dune Of Pilat. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the sand dunes before you continue to your next stop.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in La Rochelle. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at La Côte Rôtie, a highly-rated dining destination in La Rochelle. If you're eager to try something different, consider La Boussole, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Les hédonistes. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in La Rochelle this evening.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Mac Ewan's Pub stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Le Cadre offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Le Plan B is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.
Day 5
- La Rochelle
- Nantes
- More
Drive 144 km, 2 hours 46 min
- Machines of the Isle of Nantes
- Le Lieu unique
- Château des ducs de Bretagne
- Botanical Garden
- Île de Versailles (Nantes)
- More
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.
Nantes’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of La Rochelle behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 50 min. Nantes welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Take your self-guided tour to Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes, a notable art installation that everyone visiting Nantes should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Le Lieu Unique. This photogenic cultural center is one of the most underrated attractions in the region. Don’t miss out on Château Des Ducs De Bretagne, a historic castle, popular among locals as well as travelers. Botanical Garden is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this captivating botanical garden before you continue your journey. Lastly, visit Île De Versailles (nantes), a romantic park and top attraction in the city.
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 Nantes. Nantes 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 Nantes. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Gigg's Irish Pub, a top-rated dining spot in Nantes. If you're in the mood for something new, try L'Aménité - Restaurant Nantes, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Le Parallèle. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Nantes.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Le Chat Noir, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Oceania Hôtel De France Nantes. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Bar Le Cercle Rouge Nantes, another top-rated place in the area.
Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 6
- Nantes
- Angers
- More
Drive 177 km, 2 hours 40 min
- Puy du Fou
- Château d'Angers
- Jardin des Plantes d'Angers
- More
Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - La Forge and Angers. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Angers. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Set your GPS to La Forge and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 5 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. La Forge beckons with new experiences!
Spend your afternoon discovering Puy Du Fou, an extraordinary amusement park known for its historic features.
Angers’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of La Forge behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 1 min. Angers welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Château D'angers, a locally renowned castle that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Jardin Des Plantes D'angers, where you can soak in the eye-catching surroundings.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Angers, 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 Angers's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Make sure to reserve a table at Wallaby's Australian Café, an iconic dining spot in Angers. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of La Cour - Angers, a popular restaurant in Angers. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Brasserie de la Gare, a hidden gem nestled in Angers. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Flo Cocktail, Beer, Spirits & Music is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Le Snooker, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Velenjak. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
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 7
- Angers
- Amboise
- Tours
- More
Drive 275 km, 3 hours 32 min
- Château d'Amboise
- More
On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Amboise and Blois. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Tours, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Loches and set your GPS to Amboise. 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 23 min. Upon reaching Amboise, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Head to Château D'amboise, an interesting château in Amboise.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Tours. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Tours. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a lovely meal at The Originals Relais, Château de Beaulieu et Magnolia Spa, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Au Café d' en face is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at L'Escapade. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Tours tonight.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Café Bar Jazz Le Strapontin, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Le P Tit Soleil, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, La Belle Époque provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!
Day 8
- Tours - Departure day
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- Vieux-Tours
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Day 8 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.
On your last day in France, take time to indulge in shopping at Tours’s popular marketplace, Les Halles de Tours. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.
Begin your adventure at Vieux Tours. This is a locally appreciated street you should not miss.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Tours.
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!
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