9-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from La Rochelle traveling east to Bordeaux, Bergerac, and Tours
Description
Included
Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in France as you embark on an unforgettable 9-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like La Rochelle, Lormont, Bordeaux, Montignac-Lascaux, Beynac-et-Cazenac, Bergerac, Castelnaud-la-Chapelle, La Roque-Gageac, Monbazillac, Tours, Langeais, and Amboise.
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.
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. 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.
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.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Mac Ewan's Pub after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Le Cadre, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Le Plan B also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
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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Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions La Rochelle has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in La Rochelle by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around La Rochelle. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Musée Maritime De La Rochelle is the perfect place to start. This maritime museum is one of the most up-and-coming places to visit in La Rochelle. Next, head to La Rochelle Aquarium, an increasingly popular aquarium, known for its eye-catching 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 Saint Saviour Church Of La Rochelle. This heritage-rich church offers a unique experience that is highly recommended. Meanwhile, Cloister Of The White Ladies adds its own distinct charm to your journey. Finish your day with a visit to Bunker La Rochelle (museum), a standout museum in La Rochelle.
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.
Experience shopping bliss at La Rochelle as you explore Les Minimes Marina. Take a leisurely stroll through unique and shops, where local treasures are waiting to be found. Beyond shopping, Les Minimes Marina offers more options, including unique attractions, key services, and vibrant events.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of La Rochelle's best restaurants.
Savor the flavors at Restaurant Les Flots, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Palem Café beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Christopher Coutanceau. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in La Rochelle tonight.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Le Dock Café, known for its lively atmosphere. Le Mary Lili is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, L'alibi offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Say good night to La Rochelle and look forward to another great day of your road trip 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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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Lormont and Bordeaux, 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 Bordeaux. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.
Today's adventure in La Rochelle promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at La Cité Du Vin. This romantic museum is a highlight of any visit in the town. Then, enjoy Porte Cailhau, another culturally significant attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Miroir D'eau, one of the town’s most interesting attractions, known for its visually striking features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Place De La Bourse. This majestic public square is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Monument Aux Girondins, an intriguing monument, and take a stroll around the area.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Bordeaux. Bordeaux offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Bordeaux's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Le Cent 33, a top-rated dining spot in Bordeaux. If you're in the mood for something new, try L'Originel, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Le Clemenceau. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bordeaux.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Café Brun, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Le Mushroom Café offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Bordeaux. Whose Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Say good night to Bordeaux and look forward to another great day 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 of your road trip across France promises a magnificent time exploring Bordeaux. You have 1 night left in Bordeaux. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Don’t miss Rue Sainte-Catherine in Bordeaux today, a must-see street that offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant character. Take your time exploring its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks.
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots in Bordeaux. Begin your sightseeing with Basilica Of St. Michael, Bordeaux. This increasingly popular church is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Musée D'aquitaine Tram Stop, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Bordeaux, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Tour Pey-berland. This increasingly popular monument is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Bordeaux Cathedral, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Conclude your day at Bordeaux Museum Of Fine Arts and uncover why it's recognized as one of the city's most intriguing attractions.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Bordeaux's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
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 enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, The Grizzly Pub offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, The Dog And Duck provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night 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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On day 5 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 Montignac-Lascaux and Beynac-et-Cazenac. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bergerac, where you will stay for 2 nights.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Bordeaux today. One of the most popular attractions included on the itinerary is Lascaux International Center Of Parietal Art. This heritage-rich museum will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Lascaux and learn what makes this eye-catching cave unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the locally renowned Château De Beynac.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Bergerac, 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 Bergerac's best restaurants.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Signorizza Bergerac, a highly-rated dining destination in Bergerac. If you're eager to try something different, consider L'Imparfait, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at V and B Bergerac. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bergerac this evening.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road 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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On day 6 of your road trip in France, you’ll start and end your day in Bergerac, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the town. Since you will return to Bergerac for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Castelnaud-la-Chapelle, La Roque-Gageac, and Monbazillac to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Castelnaud-la-chapelle Castle. This well-known castle is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is The Marqueyssac Gardens, one of the village’s most promising highlights.
Next, check out Tourism House And Wine Monbazillac, one of the most frequently visited places to see in Bergerac. This winery is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Château De Monbazillac. Wander around and soak in the enchanting atmosphere this castle offers.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Bergerac and your accommodation.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Bergerac. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Dine in style at restaurant Le Saint Jacques, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Cyrano's sins boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Access - TotalEnergies. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bergerac.
Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
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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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Tours and Langeais. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Tours, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Bergerac, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at Château De Villandry, an interesting castle in the city. Then, head to Château De Langeais and soak in the ambiance of this enchanting 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 often recommended spots.
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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Tours. 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 reserve a table at TIA Gourmet, an iconic dining spot in Tours. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Les Bartavelles, a popular restaurant in Tours. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Hotel Restaurant Le Faisan, a hidden gem nestled in Tours. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Keep the evening going at Cave À Vins Et À Bières Vins Sur 20, Bar Et Soirées À Thème, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Piraat Cafe Tours, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is L'alexandra, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Amboise. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in La Rochelle. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Begin your adventure at Château De Chambord. This is a notable castle you should not miss. Another must-see is Château D'amboise, a well-known château in Tours.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Château De Chenonceau.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of 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 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 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.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Le Saint-nicolas Hôtel La Rochelle, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Académie De La Bière provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Lili La Rochelle offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
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 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 locally appreciated monument is a popular place to see in the city.
Make the most of your final day in France by visiting La Rochelle’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Les Minimes Marina. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience 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 eager to try something different, consider Le Bistrot de Mémé, another top spot with a tantalizing 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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