One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from La Rochelle traveling south to Perigueux, Toulouse, and Bordeaux
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Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in France as you embark on an unforgettable 8-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like La Rochelle, Saint-Émilion, Perigueux, Padirac, Gourdon, Toulouse, Carcassonne, Lastours, Blagnac, Bordeaux, Arcachon, Le Bouscat, and Lormont.
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, 2 nights in Toulouse, and 2 nights 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. Cité De Carcassonne and Dune Of Pilat are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Padirac Cave, 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, Saint-Émilion, Perigueux, Padirac, Gourdon, Toulouse, Carcassonne, Lastours, Blagnac, Bordeaux, Arcachon, Le Bouscat, and Lormont, 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!
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Day 1
- La Rochelle - Arrival day
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- Charruyer Park of La Rochelle
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Welcome to La Rochelle, 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 La Rochelle's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
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.
Don’t miss out on dining at La Côte Rôtie, a top-rated dining destination in La Rochelle. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Boussole, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Les hédonistes. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in La Rochelle this evening.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Mac Ewan's Pub, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Le Cadre offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Le Plan B provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in France!
Day 2
- La Rochelle
- Périgueux
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Drive 308 km, 3 hours 46 min
- Musée maritime de La Rochelle
- La Rochelle Aquarium
- Monolithic Church of Saint-Emilion
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - La Rochelle and Saint-Émilion. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Perigueux. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Immerse yourself in La Rochelle’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Musée Maritime De La Rochelle. This gorgeous maritime museum is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the picture-perfect features of La Rochelle Aquarium, a must-visit aquarium in the city.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Monolithic Church Of Saint-emilion, an up-and-coming church.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Perigueux. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
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.
Discover the culinary delights of Perigueux by securing a reservation at Le Bel'Art. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of traditional cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try L'Essentiel, renowned for its delicious modern dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to La Table du Pouyaud, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering modern menu. With its Bib Gourmand recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!
Day 3
- Périgueux
- Toulouse
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Drive 307 km, 3 hours 55 min
- Railway Tourist Haut Quercy
- Padirac Cave
- Animal Park of Gramat
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Padirac and Gourdon. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Toulouse, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
A blend of fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots await you in Perigueux on today’s itinerary. First up is the often recommended heritage railway, Railway Tourist Haut Quercy. Afterward, continue to Padirac Cave, a cave every traveler should visit.
As you explore Perigueux’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the village. Next, make your way to Animal Park Of Gramat. This up-and-coming zoo is an essential stop.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Toulouse. Toulouse offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Toulouse's best restaurants.
Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Stéphane Tournié - Les Jardins de l'Opéra, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Py-r, known for its delicious modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Toulouse is Hedone, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious creative menu.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Moloko, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Botanist Pub is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Melting Pot Pub also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
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
- Toulouse
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Drive 225 km, 3 hours 4 min
- Church of Saints Nazaire and Celse
- Cité de Carcassonne
- Château et Remparts de la Cité de Carcassonne
- Château comtal de Carcassonne
- Les Quatre Châteaux de Lastours
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At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Toulouse, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views await you in Toulouse on today’s itinerary. First up is the beloved church, Basilique Saint Nazaire. Afterward, continue to Cité De Carcassonne, a castle every traveler should visit.
As you explore Toulouse’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town. Next, make your way to Château Et Remparts De La Cité De Carcassonne. This worthwhile castle is an essential stop. Following that, head to Château Comtal, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Les Quatre Châteaux De Lastours, a worthwhile castle in the town.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Toulouse.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Toulouse's best restaurants.
Enjoy a lovely meal at La Faim des Haricots/TOULOUSE CENTRE VILLE, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Madame Bovary is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Au Pois Gourmand restaurant gastronomique. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Toulouse tonight.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Pub O'clock after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to La Loupiote, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Café Populaire also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!
Day 5
- Toulouse
- Bordeaux
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Drive 266 km, 3 hours 21 min
- Couvent des Jacobins
- Basilica of St. Sernin
- Jardin des Plantes
- Musée Aeroscopia
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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 Toulouse and Blagnac. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bordeaux, where you will stay for 2 nights.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Toulouse, featuring fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Couvent Des Jacobins, a worthwhile monastery in the city. Then, head to Basilica Of St. Sernin and soak in the ambiance of this symbolic church.
There are many interesting places to see in Toulouse, and when you are ready for more, go to Jardin Des Plantes. This is one of the city’s most up-and-coming mesmerizing spots of interest. After exploring the botanical garden, visit the up-and-coming Musée Aeroscopia.
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.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Bordeaux. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Experience a symphony of flavors at Ressources in Bordeaux by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Ressources delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Le Pressoir d'Argent - Gordon Ramsay, acclaimed for its delectable modern specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at La Grand'Vigne - Les Sources de Caudalie, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 2-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for modern cuisine in the city.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Café Brun, known for its lively atmosphere. Le Mushroom Café is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Whose Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
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 6
- Bordeaux
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Drive 141 km, 2 hours 41 min
- Dune of Pilat
- miroir d'eau
- place de la Bourse
- Monument aux Girondins
- jardin public
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On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bordeaux, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Arcachon and Bordeaux. You still have 1 night left in Bordeaux.
Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at the well-known Dune Of Pilat, a romantic sand dunes in Bordeaux. Next, go to Miroir D'eau.
After visiting Dune Of Pilat and Miroir D'eau, have a stroll along Bordeaux's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Place De La Bourse. This enchanting public square offers a unique experience. Monument Aux Girondins is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Jardin Public, one of the most romantic places to visit in Bordeaux.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Bordeaux and your accommodation.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Bordeaux. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at L'Oiseau Bleu, a highly-rated dining destination in Bordeaux. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurant Soléna, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hôtel De Sèze. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bordeaux this evening.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to The Grizzly Pub, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, The Dog And Duck provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.
Day 7
- Bordeaux
- La Rochelle
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Drive 196 km, 2 hours 48 min
- Bordeaux Cathedral
- The big bell of Bordeaux
- parc bordelais
- Cité du Vin
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Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Bordeaux, Le Bouscat, and Lormont, 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 to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Bordeaux, including a church, a historical landmark, a park, a museum and much more! Start your day at Bordeaux Cathedral. This enchanting church is a popular place to see in Bordeaux. Then, wander over to The Big Bell Of Bordeaux. If culturally significant sites excite you, this historical landmark will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Parc Bordelais. This serene park is a favorite among visitors.
Bordeaux offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, La Cité Du Vin is a locally renowned 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 La Rochelle. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
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.
Start 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.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Le Dock Café, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Le Mary Lili provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, L'alibi offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!
Day 8
- La Rochelle - Departure day
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- Grosse Horloge
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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 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, we recommend visiting Grosse Horloge, a picture-perfect monument before you head out.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in La Rochelle.
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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