9-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from La Rochelle traveling south to Perigueux, Toulouse, and Bordeaux

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore La Rochelle and Saint-Émilion, 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 Perigueux. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots await you in La Rochelle on today’s itinerary. First up is the increasingly popular maritime museum, Musée Maritime De La Rochelle. Afterward, continue to La Rochelle Aquarium, an aquarium every traveler should visit.

As you explore La Rochelle’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Monolithic Church Of Saint-emilion. This up-and-coming church is an essential stop.

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.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Le Bel'Art, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible traditional menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, L'Essentiel is one of the best restaurants for modern cuisine in Perigueux. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at La Table du Pouyaud. As a top-rated establishment with a Bib Gourmand status, it is an ideal choice for modern cuisine in the city.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!

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 3 nights.

Today’s itinerary in Perigueux covers several incredible sights, including a heritage railway, a cave, and a zoo. Start your adventure at Railway Tourist Haut Quercy. This curiosity-inducing heritage railway is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the stunning wonders of Padirac Cave, a must-see cave in the village.

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 Animal Park Of Gramat. This curiosity-inducing zoo offers an enriching experience. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Toulouse by booking a table at Stéphane Tournié - Les Jardins de l'Opéra. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Py-r, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Hedone, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing creative menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Moloko, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of The Botanist Pub, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Melting Pot Pub likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

On day 4 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Carcassonne. You’ll stay in Toulouse for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views in the charming town of Toulouse. Your adventure starts at Basilique Saint Nazaire, an increasingly popular local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Cité De Carcassonne. This widely recognized castle is known for its history-steeped appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Toulouse's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Château Comtal. This UNESCO world heritage-listed castle offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Place Saint-pierre is also worth visiting, along with Musée Aeroscopia. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

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.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Toulouse. 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 La Faim des Haricots/TOULOUSE CENTRE VILLE, an iconic dining spot in Toulouse. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Madame Bovary, a popular restaurant in Toulouse. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Au Pois Gourmand restaurant gastronomique, a hidden gem nestled in Toulouse. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Pub O'clock, known for its inviting atmosphere. La Loupiote is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Café Populaire provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!

Day 5 of your road trip across France promises a magnificent time exploring Toulouse. You have 1 night left in Toulouse. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Jardin Des Plantes. This frequently visited botanical garden is a serene place to see in Toulouse. Continue your discovery at Grand Rond, a mesmerizing park with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Toulouse, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Pont-neuf. This beloved monument offers a romantic encounter with Toulouse. Next, make your way to Couvent Des Jacobins to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Basilica Of St. Sernin, a well-known church 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 Toulouse.

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.

As you explore more of Toulouse, 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 lovely meal at Bapz, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Cabaret Le Kalinka is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restaurant Emile. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Toulouse tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Bar Filochard. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, The Black Lion offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook The Dry Dock, another top-rated bar in the area.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.

On day 6 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 Montauban and Moissac. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bordeaux, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Get ready for an exciting day in Toulouse. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a public square, a botanical garden, a marina, a church and much more! Begin your adventure at Place Nationale. This is a frequently visited public square you should not miss. Another must-see is Botanical Garden, a worthwhile botanical garden in Toulouse.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Port Canal. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Saint-pierre Abbey In Moissac, another of the town’s underrated attractions.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bordeaux. 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 Bordeaux. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Discover the culinary delights of Bordeaux by securing a reservation at Ressources. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Le Pressoir d'Argent - Gordon Ramsay, renowned for its delicious modern dishes. This esteemed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to La Grand'Vigne - Les Sources de Caudalie, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering modern menu. With its 2-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

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.

Head back to your accommodation in Bordeaux and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!

On day 7 of your road trip in France, you’ll start and end your day in Bordeaux, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Bordeaux for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Arcachon and Bordeaux to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in the charming city of Bordeaux. Your adventure starts at Dune Of Pilat, a locally renowned local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Miroir D'eau. This popular art installation is known for its mesmerizing appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Bordeaux's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Place De La Bourse. This majestic public square offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Monument Aux Girondins is also worth visiting, along with Jardin Public. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Bordeaux and your accommodation.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bordeaux. 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 L'Oiseau Bleu, 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 Restaurant Soléna, 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 Hôtel De Sèze, a hidden gem nestled in Bordeaux. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Bordeaux, Le Bouscat, and Lormont. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in La Rochelle, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Bordeaux Cathedral. This popular church is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is The Big Bell Of Bordeaux, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Parc Bordelais, one of the most underrated places to see in Bordeaux. This park is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, La Cité Du Vin. Wander around and soak in the romantic atmosphere this museum offers.

At the end of the day, you will drive to La Rochelle, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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.

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.

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

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!