One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bordeaux to Pau, Bayonne, Angouleme, and Nantes and surrounding area

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Photo of landscape view of Saint Emilion village in Bordeaux region, France.
Photo of Place de la Bourse in Bordeaux, France.
One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bordeaux to Pau, Bayonne, Angouleme, and Nantes and surrounding area
One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bordeaux to Pau, Bayonne, Angouleme, and Nantes and surrounding area
One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bordeaux to Pau, Bayonne, Angouleme, and Nantes and surrounding area
One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bordeaux to Pau, Bayonne, Angouleme, and Nantes and surrounding area
One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bordeaux to Pau, Bayonne, Angouleme, and Nantes and surrounding area
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Experience the freedom of the open road on an unforgettable 8-day road trip in France! Embark on a self-drive tour that caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Bordeaux, Le Bouscat, Lormont, Aspin-en-Lavedan, Lourdes, Gez, Pau, Bayonne, Biarritz, Angouleme, Nantes, Rezé, and Sainte-luce-sur-loire.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in France. You will spend 3 nights in Bordeaux, 1 night in Pau, 1 night in Bayonne, 1 night in Angouleme, and 1 night 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 you covered.

Upon arriving in Bordeaux, 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. Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes and Château Des Ducs De Bretagne are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Bordeaux, Le Bouscat, Lormont, Aspin-en-Lavedan, Lourdes, Gez, Pau, Bayonne, Biarritz, Angouleme, Nantes, Rezé, and Sainte-luce-sur-loire, 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

  • Bordeaux - Arrival day
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  • jardin public
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Welcome to Bordeaux, the perfect starting point for your road trip in France! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights discovering what to see in Bordeaux before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Bordeaux 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 Jardin Public. 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.

When you're ready for some downtime, make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Bordeaux. Make yourself at home and unwind before heading out again.

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 Bordeaux, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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. Known for great service, 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.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in France!

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Day2

Day 2

  • Bordeaux
  • More

Drive 17 km, 1 hour 3 min

  • place de la Bourse
  • miroir d'eau
  • Bordeaux Cathedral
  • More

Day 2 of your road trip across France promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in Le Bouscat. You have 1 night left in Bordeaux. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

No visit to Bordeaux is complete without Place De La Bourse. This well-known public square is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Miroir D'eau, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Bordeaux, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Bordeaux Cathedral. This locally renowned church is a traveler-favorite.

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 Bordeaux's bustling shopping hub, Promenade Sainte-Catherine. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Promenade Sainte-Catherine offers plenty of options, including restaurants, primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at L'Oiseau Bleu, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurant Soléna offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Hôtel De Sèze. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bordeaux.

Continue your lively evening at Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. The Grizzly Pub is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, The Dog And Duck ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

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Day3

Day 3

  • Bordeaux
  • Aspin-en-Lavedan
  • Argelès-Gazost
  • Gez
  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques
  • More

Drive 383 km, 5 hours 17 min

  • funiculaire du pic du Jer
  • Pont d'Espagne
  • Animal Park of the Pyrenees
  • More

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 3 places, which are Aspin-en-Lavedan, Lourdes, and Gez. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Pau, where will spend 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bordeaux, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Aspin-en-Lavedan. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 39 min.

Funiculaire Du Pic Du Jer is a frequently visited tramway we recommend visiting today. Discover its serene features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Lourdes. This drive usually takes around 52 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Pont D'espagne, an intriguing waterfall known for its stunning features.

When you’ve had your share of Lourdes, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Gez. Your travel time is around 40 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Animal Park Of The Pyrenees, an increasingly popular zoo that everyone visiting Gez should see.

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

Pau 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 Pau.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Le Henri IV, a top-rated dining destination in Pau. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Le Garage, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Au Fin Gourmet. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Pau this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Snug, known for its inviting atmosphere. Winfield Café is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, The Galway provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

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Day4

Day 4

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques
  • Argelès-Gazost
  • Lourdes
  • Bayonne
  • More

Drive 191 km, 2 hours 32 min

  • Grottes de Bétharram
  • Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes
  • Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary
  • Basilica of St. Pius X
  • More

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Lourdes. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Bayonne, where you'll spend 1 night.

After soaking in Pau’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Lourdes. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 35 min. When you arrive in Lourdes, it's time to take a break from the road.

Spend your afternoon discovering Grottes De Bétharram, a beloved cave system known for its picturesque features.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Lourdes, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Lourdes to Lourdes may take around 17 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Lourdes, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Sanctuary Of Our Lady Of Lourdes. Spend some time admiring the historic features of the church before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Rosary. This beloved church is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Basilica Of St. Pius X. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the minor basilica.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at JANINE, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Josie Factory? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Le Belzunce as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bayonne.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Dame Jeanne, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Café Des Pyrénées offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Kubata & Kukubat provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day5

Day 5

  • Bayonne
  • Biarritz
  • Angoulême
  • More

Drive 369 km, 4 hours 40 min

  • Rocher de la vierge
  • Biarritz Aquarium
  • Le Train de La Rhune
  • More

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Biarritz and Bayonne. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Angouleme, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Biarritz.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Rocher De La Vierge, a locally renowned rock formation that everyone visiting Biarritz should see. Next, head to Biarritz Aquarium. This gorgeous aquarium is one of the most notable attractions in the region.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bayonne, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Angouleme. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 40 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Le Train De La Rhune and explore the peaceful features.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Angouleme, 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 Angouleme, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

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Day6

Day 6

  • Angoulême
  • Nantes
  • Rezé
  • More

Drive 288 km, 3 hours 32 min

  • Natural History Museum
  • Machines of the Isle of Nantes
  • Jardin extraordinaire (Nantes)
  • parc de Procé
  • More

Your itinerary for day 6 of your road trip in France includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Nantes and Rezé. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Nantes, 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 Nantes may take around 3 hours 2 min. Upon your arrival in Nantes, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Natural History Museum and explore the eye-catching features. Next, make your way to Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes, another highlight in Nantes. When you’re done exploring the art installation, continue to Parc De Procé, a romantic park.

Set your GPS to Rezé and hit the road. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Rezé beckons with new experiences!

Savor the day by heading to Jardin Extraordinaire (nantes), an increasingly popular botanical garden that draws visitors from near and far.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Gigg's Irish Pub, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, L'Aménité - Restaurant Nantes offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Le Parallèle is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Nantes.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Le Chat Noir after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Oceania Hôtel De France Nantes, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Bar Le Cercle Rouge Nantes also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

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Day7

Day 7

  • Nantes
  • Sainte-Luce-sur-Loire
  • Bordeaux
  • More

Drive 357 km, 3 hours 48 min

  • Île de Versailles (Nantes)
  • Grand Blotterau Parc
  • Botanical Garden
  • Château des ducs de Bretagne
  • More

On day 7 of your road trip in France, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Nantes and Sainte-luce-sur-loire are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bordeaux, where you will stay for 1 night.

Experience Île De Versailles (nantes), a worthwhile park in the city. Then, head to Botanical Garden and soak in the ambiance of this eye-catching botanical garden.

There are many interesting places to see in Nantes, and when you are ready for more, go to Château Des Ducs De Bretagne. This is one of the city’s most locally renowned historic spots of interest.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Sainte-luce-sur-loire.

Grand Blotterau Parc is a locally appreciated park we recommend visiting today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Locadillos, a highly-rated dining destination in Bordeaux. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurant Le Plana, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Blind. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bordeaux this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Casey's Pub, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Le Bar À Vin is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Thecity also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

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Day8

Day 8

  • Bordeaux - Departure day
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  • Monument aux Girondins
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Day 8 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Bordeaux 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 Monument Aux Girondins. This often recommended monument is a hotspot among locals.

Take advantage of your accommodation's proximity to Bordeaux’s shopping district for some last-minute bargain hunting. Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones. Discover boutiques offering an array of stylish fashion choices. For those seeking luxury items, check out the area’s high-end stores.

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

If you're eager to try something different, consider Le Chicoula Bistrot d'art, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Bordeaux. 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.
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.
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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