5-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from La Rochelle traveling south to Perigueux and Bordeaux
Description
Included
Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in France as you embark on an unforgettable 5-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like La Rochelle, Saint-Émilion, Perigueux, Padirac, Rocamadour, Bordeaux, Lormont, and Arcachon.
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, 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. Dune Of Pilat and Padirac Cave are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable La Cité Du Vin, learn more about the unique Place De La Bourse, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Miroir D'eau.
As you hit the open road and drive through La Rochelle, Saint-Émilion, Perigueux, Padirac, Rocamadour, Bordeaux, Lormont, and Arcachon, 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!
Travel details
Set your travel details to find the best price
Flights
Compare and choose from the best flights to La Rochelle
Car
Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options
Itinerary summary
See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1
- La Rochelle - Arrival day
- More
- Charruyer Park of La Rochelle
- More
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 1 night 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.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in La Rochelle. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime 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 La Rochelle, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at La Côte Rôtie, a top-rated dining spot in La Rochelle. If you're in the mood for something new, try La Boussole, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Les hédonistes. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in La Rochelle.
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 5-day road trip in France!
Day 2
- La Rochelle
- Périgueux
- 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 exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, La Rochelle and Saint-Émilion. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Perigueux, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in La Rochelle, including a maritime museum, an aquarium, and a church. Start your day at Musée Maritime De La Rochelle. This instagrammable maritime museum is an underrated place to see in La Rochelle. Then, wander over to La Rochelle Aquarium. If visually striking sites excite you, this aquarium will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Monolithic Church Of Saint-emilion. This symbolic church is a favorite among visitors.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Perigueux, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Perigueux. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!
Day 3
- Périgueux
- Bordeaux
- More
Drive 399 km, 4 hours 52 min
- Railway Tourist Haut Quercy
- Padirac Cave
- Monkey Forest
- 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 Padirac and Rocamadour. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bordeaux, where you will stay for 1 night.
Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Railway Tourist Haut Quercy. This intriguing heritage railway is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Padirac Cave, one of the village’s best highlights.
Next, check out Monkey Forest, one of the most beloved places to see in Perigueux. This wildlife reserve is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.
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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Le Cent 33, an iconic dining spot in Bordeaux. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of L'Originel, a popular restaurant in Bordeaux. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Le Clemenceau, a hidden gem nestled in Bordeaux. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
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.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.
Day 4
- Bordeaux
- La Rochelle
- More
Drive 338 km, 4 hours 3 min
- place de la Bourse
- miroir d'eau
- Cité du Vin
- Dune of Pilat
- More
Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Bordeaux, Lormont, 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.
Get ready for an exciting day in Bordeaux. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a public square, an art installation, a museum, a sand dunes and much more! Begin your adventure at Place De La Bourse. This is a locally renowned public square you should not miss. Another must-see is Miroir D'eau, a well-known art installation in Bordeaux.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to La Cité Du Vin. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Dune Of Pilat, another of the city’s well-known attractions.
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.
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.
Keep the evening going at Le Dock Café, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Le Mary Lili, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is L'alibi, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 5
- La Rochelle - Departure day
- More
- Grosse Horloge
- More
Day 5 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 frequently visited 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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at La Plage, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, LE JARDIN DU MARCHÉ offers an enticing alternative with its varied 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!
Similar travel packages
Discover other popular vacations in France
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.