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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Photo of Aerial view of tour de la chaine and tour Saint Nicholas at La Rochelle, France.
Photo of seaside of La Rochelle dominated by Tour de la Lanterne, France.
7-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from La Rochelle traveling east to Cognac, Sarlat La Caneda, and Tours
7-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from La Rochelle traveling east to Cognac, Sarlat La Caneda, and Tours
7-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from La Rochelle traveling east to Cognac, Sarlat La Caneda, and Tours
7-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from La Rochelle traveling east to Cognac, Sarlat La Caneda, and Tours
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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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 7-day road trip through France. Explore diverse landscapes, discover lively cities, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in France. 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 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.

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, accommodations, 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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Day1

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. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. 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 central location for easy access to key areas 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 highly-rated dining destination in La Rochelle. If you're eager to try something different, consider La Boussole, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Les hédonistes. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in La Rochelle this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Mac Ewan's Pub, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Le Cadre offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in La Rochelle. Le Plan B is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

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Day2

Day 2

  • La Rochelle
  • Cognac
  • More

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

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including La Rochelle and Cognac. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Cognac, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Visiting Saint Louis Cathedral is always a good idea. This intriguing church is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the picture-perfect wonders of La Rochelle Aquarium, a must-see aquarium in the city.

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 Musée Maritime De La Rochelle. This up-and-coming maritime museum offers an enriching experience.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Cognac may take around 1 hour 17 min. Upon your arrival in Cognac, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Musée Des Savoir-faire Du Cognac, a curiosity-inducing 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. Next, head to Hennessy and admire its instagrammable features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Cognac. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the town.

Cognac 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 Cognac.

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

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Day3

Day 3

  • Cognac
  • Montignac
  • Sarlat-la-Canéda
  • More

Drive 227 km, 3 hours 48 min

  • Lascaux International Center of Parietal Art
  • Lascaux 2
  • La Forêt des Écureuils
  • Manor Gisson
  • More

Your itinerary for day 3 of your road trip in France includes 3 stops and features some of the highlights of Montignac-Lascaux, La Falgueyrade, and Sarlat La Caneda. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Sarlat La Caneda, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Montignac-Lascaux’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Cognac behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 36 min. Montignac-Lascaux welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Lascaux International Center Of Parietal Art, an interesting 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. Next, head to Lascaux and admire its historic features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Montignac-Lascaux and set your GPS to La Falgueyrade. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 35 min. Upon reaching La Falgueyrade, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to La Forêt Des Écureuils, an up-and-coming adventure park that everyone visiting La Falgueyrade should see.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Sarlat La Caneda may take around 13 min. Upon your arrival in Sarlat La Caneda, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Manor Gisson and explore the historic 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.

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 Sarlat La Caneda, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in France.

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Day4

Day 4

  • Sarlat-la-Canéda
  • Beynac
  • La Roque-Gageac
  • More

Drive 52 km, 1 hour 33 min

  • AirParc Périgord
  • Château de Beynac
  • The Marqueyssac gardens
  • More

Greet day 4 of your road trip in France with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Sarlat La Caneda, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Sarlat La Caneda, Beynac-et-Cazenac, La Roque-Gageac, Castelnaud-la-Chapelle, and Domme.

Set your GPS to Beynac-et-Cazenac and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 10 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Beynac-et-Cazenac beckons with new experiences!

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Airparc Périgord, an often recommended adventure park 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 ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Sarlat La Caneda, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Beynac-et-Cazenac. This drive usually takes around 10 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Château De Beynac, an interesting castle known for its symbolic features.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — La Roque-Gageac, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Beynac-et-Cazenac to La Roque-Gageac may take around 5 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in La Roque-Gageac, 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 The Marqueyssac Gardens, a locally renowned botanical garden that everyone visiting La Roque-Gageac should see.

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

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 Sarlat La Caneda, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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

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Day5

Day 5

  • Sarlat-la-Canéda
  • Blois
  • Tours
  • More

Drive 483 km, 6 hours 7 min

  • Château de Blois
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Blois. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Tours, where will spend 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Sarlat La Caneda, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Blois. Your travel time is around 4 hours 13 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Château De Blois, a locally renowned castle in Blois. Explore its visually striking features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Tours. Tours 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 Tours's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Dine in style at TIA Gourmet, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Les Bartavelles boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Hotel Restaurant Le Faisan. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Tours.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Cave À Vins Et À Bières Vins Sur 20, Bar Et Soirées À Thème, known for its lively atmosphere. Piraat Cafe Tours is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, L'alexandra offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day6

Day 6

  • Tours
  • Poitiers
  • 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

On day 6 of your road trip in France, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Tours and Poitiers are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in La Rochelle, where you will stay for 1 night.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the intriguing Prébendes D'oé Garden and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Jardin Botanique De Tours, a romantic botanical garden that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Vieux Tours, one of the city’s most increasingly popular spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the up-and-coming Tours Cathedral.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Poitiers, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Tours to Poitiers may take around 1 hour 12 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Poitiers, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Poitiers Cathedral, an underrated church known for its majestic features.

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

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.

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 recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!

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Day7

Day 7

  • La Rochelle - Departure day
  • More
  • Grosse Horloge
  • More

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 up-and-coming monument is a hotspot among locals.

For a shopping spree in La Rochelle, we recommend the lively Le Marché Central. Here, you'll find a range of shops you can browse for some souvenir shopping.

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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Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
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Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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