14-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from La Rochelle traveling east to Bordeaux, Sarlat La Caneda, Toulouse, Carcassonne, Avignon, and Lyon

Day 2 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in La Rochelle. You’ll stay in La Rochelle for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Awaiting your discovery is the curiosity-inducing Musée Maritime De La Rochelle, a history-steeped maritime museum in La Rochelle. Next, go to La Rochelle Aquarium.

After visiting Musée Maritime De La Rochelle and La Rochelle Aquarium, have a stroll along La Rochelle's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Musée Des Automates (la Rochelle). This instagrammable museum offers a unique experience.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in France. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Bring home unique finds from La Rochelle's bustling shopping hub, Rue du Palais. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique boutiques and stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Rue du Palais offers plenty of options, including primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Les Flots, a highly-rated dining destination in La Rochelle. If you're eager to try something different, consider Palem Café, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Christopher Coutanceau. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent 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.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Lormont and Bordeaux. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bordeaux, where will spend 2 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to La Rochelle, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Lormont. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 56 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit La Cité Du Vin, a notable museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Bordeaux’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Lormont behind. This drive usually takes around 21 min. Bordeaux welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Basilica Of St. Michael, Bordeaux is a worthwhile church we recommend visiting today. Discover its symbolic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Tour Pey-berland, a culturally significant monument that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Bordeaux Cathedral, an inviting church. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Bordeaux Museum Of Fine Arts, a history-steeped and truly unique museum. End your sightseeing at Porte Dijeaux, a locally appreciated monument that’s highly recommended by travelers passing through the town.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Bordeaux's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Le Cent 33, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, L'Originel is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Le Clemenceau. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bordeaux tonight.

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.

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

Day 4 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Bordeaux has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Bordeaux.

Rue Sainte-Catherine is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic street in Bordeaux, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the city.

Jardin Public leaves a lasting impression. This park is one of the most notable places to visit in Bordeaux. Next, head to Monument Aux Girondins, a beloved monument, known for its culturally significant features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Miroir D'eau. This visually striking art installation is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Place De La Bourse and Musée D'aquitaine Tram Stop Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in France. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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

Dine in style at L'Oiseau Bleu, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurant Soléna boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Hôtel De Sèze. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bordeaux.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Grizzly Pub offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Bordeaux. The Dog And Duck is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Your itinerary for day 5 of your road trip in France includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Montignac-Lascaux and Peyzac-le-Moustier. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Sarlat La Caneda, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

When you’ve had your share of Bordeaux, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Montignac-Lascaux. Your travel time is around 2 hours.

Our first attraction recommendation in Montignac-Lascaux is Lascaux International Center Of Parietal Art, a captivating museum that draws attention for its standout features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Lascaux, a scenic cave that stands out in the village.

After soaking in Montignac-Lascaux’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Peyzac-le-Moustier. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 20 min. When you arrive in Peyzac-le-Moustier, it's time to take a break from the road.

Our first attraction recommendation in Peyzac-le-Moustier is Roque Saint-christophe, an increasingly popular archeological site that draws attention for its history-steeped features.

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

Sarlat La Caneda is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Sarlat La Caneda.

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

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Sarlat La Caneda, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate town, including Beynac-et-Cazenac, Castelnaud-la-Chapelle, La Roque-Gageac, and Padirac.

Whether you decide to explore Beynac-et-Cazenac on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Beynac-et-Cazenac. This drive usually takes around 17 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Savor the day by heading to Château De Beynac, a popular castle that draws visitors from near and far.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Beynac-et-Cazenac, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Castelnaud-la-Chapelle. This drive usually takes around 8 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Castelnaud-la-chapelle Castle, a notable castle known for its history-steeped features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, La Roque-Gageac. This car ride takes around 7 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit The Marqueyssac Gardens, a captivating botanical garden that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

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

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Toulouse. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Toulouse, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Toulouse, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Sarlat La Caneda to Toulouse may take around 2 hours 14 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Toulouse, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Les Abattoirs, an up-and-coming art gallery that everyone visiting Toulouse should see. Next, head to Pont-neuf. This enchanting monument is one of the most frequently visited attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Musée Des Augustins, a noteworthy museum popular among locals as well as travelers. Saint Stephen's Cathedral is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this worthwhile church before you continue your journey.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Toulouse. Check in and relax before you head out to tour 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 Toulouse, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restaurant Le May, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try L*Agence? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Le Perche Pinte as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Toulouse.

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.

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

On day 8 of your road trip in France, you’ll start and end your day in Toulouse, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you still have 1 night to spend in Toulouse, there’s no need to rush. Experience Balma and Toulouse to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Basilica Of St. Sernin makes a great addition to your morning plans. This captivating church is a symbolic place to see in Toulouse. Continue your discovery at Couvent Des Jacobins, a picture-perfect monastery with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Toulouse, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Muséum De Toulouse. This beloved museum offers an instagrammable encounter with Toulouse. Next, make your way to Jardin Des Plantes to add another highlight to your day. 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.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Toulouse, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Balma. This drive usually takes around 17 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Balma is Cité De L'espace, an often recommended science center that draws attention for its visually striking features.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Toulouse.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Toulouse's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at La Faim des Haricots/TOULOUSE CENTRE VILLE, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Madame Bovary? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Au Pois Gourmand restaurant gastronomique as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Toulouse.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Pub O'clock, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to La Loupiote. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Café Populaire, another top-rated place in the area.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Carcassonne. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Carcassonne, where you'll spend 1 night.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Carcassonne may take around 1 hour 9 min. Upon your arrival in Carcassonne, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Savor the day by heading to Basilique Saint Nazaire, a locally appreciated church that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Cité De Carcassonne, where you can soak in the enchanting surroundings.

Next, explore Château Comtal, yet another locally appreciated place to see in the area. After the castle, make time to go to Église Saint-vincent De Carcassonne. This culturally significant church is well worth the visit.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Carcassonne. Carcassonne offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a top-rated dining destination in Carcassonne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Rapière, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Domaine d'Auriac. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Carcassonne this evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

On day 10 of your road trip in France, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Avignon are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Avignon, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Avignon’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Carcassonne behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 34 min. Avignon welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Pont Saint-benezet (le Pont D'avignon). Spend some time admiring the history-steeped features of the historical landmark before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Jardin Des Doms. This locally appreciated park is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Palais Des Papes. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the palace. Next, take your journey to Musée Calvet (avignon, France), an intriguing museum. Conclude your sightseeing at Remparts D'avignon, known for its picture-perfect features.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Avignon, 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 Avignon's best restaurants.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Pollen, a top-rated dining destination in Avignon. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Chez Bodus Le Garçon Boucher, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at La Cuisine de Papa. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Avignon this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Le 17 Place Aux Vins Avignon • Bar À Vin / Caviste. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Barberousse Avignon, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, The Red Sky provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!

Wake up to day 11 of your road trip in France. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, Les Baux-de-Provence, and Arles. With 1 night to stay in Avignon, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard may take around 33 min. Upon your arrival in La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the hamlet's best attractions, visit Pont Du Gard, a notable monument that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Les Baux-de-Provence. This car ride takes around 49 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Château Des Baux-de-provence. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the castle before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Carrières Des Lumières. This popular art installation is a traveler-favorite in the hamlet.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Arles, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Les Baux-de-Provence to Arles may take around 27 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Arles, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Roman Theatre Of Arles is an up-and-coming archeological site we recommend visiting today. Discover its historic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Arles Amphitheatre, a picture-perfect archeological site that’s well-regarded in the area.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Le Carré du Palais, a top-rated dining destination in Avignon. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Avenio, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at BAR DU CHANGE. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Avignon this evening.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, O'collins's Irish Pub stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, The Gambrinus offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 12 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Caluire-et-Cuire and Lyon. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lyon, where will spend 1 night.

As you explore Caluire-et-Cuire’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Caluire-et-Cuire. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 27 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Parc De La Tête D'or is a famous park we recommend visiting today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Caluire-et-Cuire, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Lyon. This drive usually takes around 13 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Wall Of The Canuts, a frequently visited street art in Lyon. Explore its picture-perfect features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière. This popular church is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Lyon. Check in and relax 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 Lyon. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Make sure to reserve a table at Nuage café, an iconic dining spot in Lyon. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Café du Rhône, a popular restaurant in Lyon. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Agastache Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Lyon. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, L' Antiquaire stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Black Forest Society offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Pompette is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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