7-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from La Rochelle traveling east to Cognac, Sarlat La Caneda, and Tours

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Explore the best of France on a 7-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through La Rochelle, Cognac, Montignac-Lascaux, Sarlat La Caneda, Beynac-et-Cazenac, La Roque-Gageac, Castelnaud-la-Chapelle, Domme, Blois, Tours, and Poitiers. 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 La Rochelle, 1 night in Cognac, 2 nights in Sarlat La Caneda, 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 De Blois, learn more about the unique Château De Beynac, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Lascaux International Center Of Parietal Art.

As you hit the open road and drive through La Rochelle, Cognac, Montignac-Lascaux, Sarlat La Caneda, Beynac-et-Cazenac, La Roque-Gageac, Castelnaud-la-Chapelle, Domme, Blois, Tours, and Poitiers, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Charruyer Park of La Rochelle
Saint Louis CathedralLa Rochelle AquariumMusée maritime de La RochelleMusée des savoir-faire du cognacHennessy
Lascaux International Center of Parietal ArtLascaux 2La Forêt des ÉcureuilsManor Gisson
AirParc PérigordChâteau de BeynacThe Marqueyssac gardensCastelnaud-la-Chapelle CastleGrotte de DommePanoramaLes Mystérieux graffiti
Château de ChambordChâteau de BloisChâteau de Chenonceau
Prébendes d'Oé GardenJardin botanique de ToursVieux-ToursCathédrale Saint-GatienPoitiers Cathedral
Grosse Horloge

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Day 1

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 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.

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.

Dine in style at La Côte Rôtie, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, La Boussole boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Les hédonistes. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in La Rochelle.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Mac Ewan's Pub, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Le Cadre is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Le Plan B is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in France!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • La Rochelle
  • Cognac
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Drive 105 km, 1 hour 58 min

  • Saint Louis Cathedral
  • La Rochelle Aquarium
  • Musée maritime de La Rochelle
  • Musée des savoir-faire du cognac
  • Hennessy
  • More

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 Cognac. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Cognac. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures in La Rochelle. Begin your sightseeing with Saint Louis Cathedral. This often recommended church is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to La Rochelle Aquarium, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of La Rochelle, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Musée Maritime De La Rochelle. This up-and-coming maritime museum is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Musée Des Savoir-faire Du Cognac, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Hennessy is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Cognac, 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 Cognac. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cognac.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Cognac
  • Sarlat-la-Canéda
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Drive 227 km, 3 hours 48 min

  • Lascaux International Center of Parietal Art
  • Lascaux 2
  • La Forêt des Écureuils
  • Manor Gisson
  • 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 Montignac-Lascaux, La Falgueyrade, and Sarlat La Caneda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Sarlat La Caneda, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Cognac today. One of the most interesting attractions included on the itinerary is Lascaux International Center Of Parietal Art. This respected museum will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Lascaux and learn what makes this picture-perfect cave unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the worthwhile La Forêt Des Écureuils. After exploring the adventure park, head to Manor Gisson. This up-and-coming museum is a highlight in Cognac.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Sarlat La Caneda. Sarlat La Caneda 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 Sarlat La Caneda's best restaurants.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Sarlat-la-Canéda
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Drive 52 km, 1 hour 33 min

  • AirParc Périgord
  • Château de Beynac
  • The Marqueyssac gardens
  • Castelnaud-la-Chapelle Castle
  • Grotte de Domme
  • Panorama
  • Les Mystérieux graffiti
  • More

Wake up to day 4 of your extraordinary road trip in France. With 1 night left in Sarlat La Caneda, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the town’s surroundings!

Start by visiting Airparc Périgord, a prime spot to begin your journey. This gorgeous adventure park is sure to impress. Next on your list is Château De Beynac, another must-visit landmark and captivating castle renowned for its majestic features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Sarlat La Caneda by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to The Marqueyssac Gardens. This history-steeped botanical garden is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Sarlat La Caneda experience. We also recommend visiting Castelnaud-la-chapelle Castle, a notable castle. Nearby, you'll also find Grotte De Domme, ready to add charm to your journey. End your self-guided sightseeing tour with a stop at Panorama and wrap up your day with its visually striking appeal.

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

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Sarlat La Caneda's best restaurants.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Sarlat-la-Canéda
  • Tours
  • More

Drive 483 km, 6 hours 7 min

  • Château de Chambord
  • Château de Blois
  • Château de Chenonceau
  • More

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Blois. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Tours, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at the well-known Château De Chambord, a romantic castle in Sarlat La Caneda. Next, go to Château De Blois.

After visiting Château De Chambord and Château De Blois, have a stroll along Sarlat La Caneda's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Château De Chenonceau. This history-steeped castle offers a unique experience.

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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Tours. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at TIA Gourmet, a top-rated dining spot in Tours. If you're in the mood for something new, try Les Bartavelles, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Hotel Restaurant Le Faisan. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Tours.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Cave À Vins Et À Bières Vins Sur 20, Bar Et Soirées À Thème after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Piraat Cafe Tours for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, L'alexandra is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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.

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Tours
  • La Rochelle
  • More

Drive 258 km, 3 hours 33 min

  • Prébendes d'Oé Garden
  • Jardin botanique de Tours
  • Vieux-Tours
  • Cathédrale Saint-Gatien
  • Poitiers Cathedral
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Tours and Poitiers. 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.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Tours, including a park, a botanical garden, a street, a church and much more! Start your day with a visit to Prébendes D'oé Garden. This increasingly popular park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Jardin Botanique De Tours, which may be one of the most mesmerizing places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Tours on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Vieux Tours, a beloved street in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Tours Cathedral and Poitiers Cathedral.

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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of La Rochelle's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restaurant Les Flots, a popular restaurant in La Rochelle. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of La Rochelle at Palem Café, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Christopher Coutanceau. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in La Rochelle tonight.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Le Dock Café after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Le Mary Lili, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, L'alibi also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • La Rochelle - Departure day
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  • Grosse Horloge
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Day 7 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 underrated monument is a popular place to see in the city.

Maximize your last day in France and go on a shopping spree in La Rochelle’s shopping center, the lively Rue du Palais. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in France. Discover boutiques with stylish fashion choices to upgrade your wardrobe.

Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in La Rochelle.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at La Plage, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try LE JARDIN DU MARCHÉ? It's another excellent option with a diverse 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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