7-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from La Rochelle to Bordeaux and Nantes and surrounding area
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Description
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, Bordeaux, Lormont, Arcachon, Nantes, Vannes, and Les Sables D'olonne. 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, 2 nights in Bordeaux, and 2 nights in Nantes. 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 Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes 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 Château Des Ducs De Bretagne, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Place De La Bourse.
As you hit the open road and drive through La Rochelle, Bordeaux, Lormont, Arcachon, Nantes, Vannes, and Les Sables D'olonne, 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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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.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in La Rochelle. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in France. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
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 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.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Mac Ewan's Pub, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Le Cadre, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Le Plan B likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in France!
Day 2
- La Rochelle
- Bordeaux
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Drive 190 km, 2 hours 26 min
- Bunker La Rochelle (Museum)
- La Rochelle Aquarium
- Musée maritime de La Rochelle
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Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore La Rochelle, 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 agenda in La Rochelle includes a museum, an aquarium, and a maritime museum. Bunker La Rochelle (museum) is must-visit museum and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to La Rochelle Aquarium, an underrated aquarium, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Musée Maritime De La Rochelle, an instagrammable maritime museum, also available for your discovery today.
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.
As you explore more of Bordeaux, 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.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Le Cent 33, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? L'Originel offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Clemenceau. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bordeaux.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Café Brun after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Le Mushroom Café, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Whose Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!
Day 3
- Bordeaux
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Drive 149 km, 2 hours 41 min
- Cité du Vin
- jardin public
- miroir d'eau
- place de la Bourse
- Dune of Pilat
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Day 3 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Bordeaux for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Bordeaux, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at La Cité Du Vin, a well-known museum in the town. Then, head to Jardin Public and soak in the ambiance of this remarkable park.
There are many interesting places to see in Bordeaux, and when you are ready for more, go to Miroir D'eau. This is one of the town’s most well-known romantic spots of interest. After exploring the art installation, visit the popular Place De La Bourse. Not far away, you'll also find Dune Of Pilat. This sand dunes is a romantic highlight in Bordeaux.
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 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.
Don’t miss out on dining at L'Oiseau Bleu, a top-rated dining destination in Bordeaux. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Soléna, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hôtel De Sèze. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bordeaux this evening.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Grizzly Pub, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, The Dog And Duck also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!
Day 4
- Bordeaux
- Nantes
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Drive 355 km, 3 hours 47 min
- Machines of the Isle of Nantes
- Île de Versailles (Nantes)
- Botanical Garden
- Château des ducs de Bretagne
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Nantes. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Nantes, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Bordeaux, including an art installation, a park, a botanical garden, a castle and much more! Start your day with a visit to Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes. This interesting art installation is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Île De Versailles (nantes), which may be one of the most remarkable places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Bordeaux 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 Botanical Garden, a locally renowned botanical garden in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Château Des Ducs De Bretagne.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Nantes, 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 Nantes. 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.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Gigg's Irish Pub, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, L'Aménité - Restaurant Nantes is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Le Parallèle. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Nantes tonight.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Le Chat Noir, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Oceania Hôtel De France Nantes is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Bar Le Cercle Rouge Nantes also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 5
- Nantes
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Drive 328 km, 4 hours 47 min
- Remparts de Vannes
- Carnac stones
- Kerzerho
- Côte Sauvage
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Wake up to day 5 of your extraordinary road trip in France. With 1 night left in Nantes, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Nantes, including a historical landmark, an archeological site, and a cliff. Start your day with a visit to Remparts De Vannes. This frequently visited historical landmark is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Carnac Stones, which may be one of the most awe-inspiring places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Nantes 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 Kerzerho, an intriguing archeological site in the town. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Côte Sauvage.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Nantes.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Nantes's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a delicious meal at La Cigale, a highly-rated dining destination in Nantes. If you're eager to try something different, consider Le Bistro des Enfants Nantais, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at L'Abbaye de Villeneuve. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Nantes this evening.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Les Berthom stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, The Coffee House offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Bateau-lavoir is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Head back to your accommodation in Nantes and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!
Day 6
- Nantes
- La Rochelle
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Drive 202 km, 3 hours 6 min
- Hospital Blockhouse Museum
- L'île Penotte
- Parc zoologique des Sables d'Olonnes
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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 Les Sables D'olonne. In the evening, you’ll end up in La Rochelle, where you will stay for 1 night.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Nantes, including a museum, a street art, and a zoo. Start your adventure at Hospital Blockhouse Museum. This worthwhile museum is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to L'île Penotte located in Nantes for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Parc Zoologique Des Sables D'olonnes. Its eye-catching features will captivate you.
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.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in La Rochelle. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Don’t miss out on dining at Restaurant Les Flots, a top-rated dining destination in La Rochelle. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Palem Café, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Christopher Coutanceau. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in La Rochelle this evening.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Le Dock Café, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Le Mary Lili, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, L'alibi provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!
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 often recommended 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.
Savor the flavors at La Plage, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, LE JARDIN DU MARCHÉ beckons with its unique menu offerings.
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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