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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Say hello to La Rochelle! Your exciting road trip through France is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in La Rochelle for 1 night before you continue your adventure!
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.
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.
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 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.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in La Rochelle today. One of the most beloved attractions included on the itinerary is Bunker La Rochelle (museum). This eye-catching museum will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to La Rochelle Aquarium and learn what makes this instagrammable aquarium unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the worthwhile Musée Maritime De La Rochelle.
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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Bordeaux's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Le Cent 33, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try L'Originel? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Le Clemenceau as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bordeaux.
Keep the evening going at Café Brun, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Le Mushroom Café, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Whose Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
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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On day 3 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Lormont. You’ll stay in Bordeaux for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at the captivating La Cité Du Vin, an instagrammable museum in Bordeaux. Next, go to Jardin Public.
After visiting La Cité Du Vin and Jardin Public, have a stroll along Bordeaux's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Miroir D'eau. This romantic art installation offers a unique experience. Place De La Bourse is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Dune Of Pilat, one of the most romantic places to visit 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 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.
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.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The Grizzly Pub is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, The Dog And Duck is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure 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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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Nantes. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Nantes, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.
Immerse yourself in Bordeaux’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes. This instagrammable art installation is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the noteworthy features of Île De Versailles (nantes), a must-visit park 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 Botanical Garden, a locally renowned botanical garden. For a change of scene, check out Château Des Ducs De Bretagne, known for its breathtaking features.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Nantes. Nantes offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
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.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Gigg's Irish Pub, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? L'Aménité - Restaurant Nantes offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Parallèle. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Nantes.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Le Chat Noir, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Oceania Hôtel De France Nantes offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Nantes. Bar Le Cercle Rouge Nantes is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!
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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Greet day 5 of your road trip in France with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Nantes for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Vannes, Le Ménec, Crucuno, and Kervozès.
Today’s agenda in Nantes includes a historical landmark, an archeological site, and a cliff. Remparts De Vannes is must-visit historical landmark and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Carnac Stones, a captivating archeological site, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Kerzerho, a respected archeological site, also available for your discovery today.
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 top-rated dining destination in Nantes. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Le Bistro des Enfants Nantais, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at L'Abbaye de Villeneuve. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Nantes this evening.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Les Berthom offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, The Coffee House is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Bateau-lavoir is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg 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 exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Les Sables D'olonne. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in La Rochelle, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Start by visiting Hospital Blockhouse Museum, a prime spot to begin your journey. This history-steeped museum is sure to impress. Next on your list is L'île Penotte, another must-visit landmark and beloved street art renowned for its eye-catching features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Nantes by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Parc Zoologique Des Sables D'olonnes. This eye-catching zoo is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Nantes experience.
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.
Enjoy a delicious meal 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.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Le Dock Café after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Le Mary Lili for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, L'alibi is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Head back to your accommodation in La Rochelle and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip 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, we recommend visiting Grosse Horloge, a picture-perfect monument before you head out.
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.
If you're in the mood to try something new, consider LE JARDIN DU MARCHÉ, another top spot with a mouthwatering 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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