5-Day Family-Friendly Road Trip Itinerary: La Rochelle and Nantes

Day 1: Explore La Rochelle

La Rochelle, France on March 31, 2025

9:00 AM

Breakfast at Café Le Bistrot

Start your day with a hearty breakfast of fresh pastries and local cheeses at Café Le Bistrot.
Located centrally near the old port, perfect for your next stop.
EUR15, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Visit the La Rochelle Aquarium

Explore one of the largest aquariums in Europe, featuring thousands of marine species and interactive exhibits that are fun for all ages.
A short 10-minute walk from the café.
EUR19, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at La Guitoune

Enjoy a family-friendly lunch with delicious seafood platters and children’s menu right by the harbor.
Just a 5-minute walk from the aquarium.
EUR22, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Stroll through the Old Port

Wander through the picturesque old port area, taking in the historic buildings and lively atmosphere.
Directly adjacent to La Guitoune.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Visit the Tower of La Rochelle

Climb to the top of this iconic tower for panoramic views of the city and coastline.
Located at the entrance of the Old Port.
EUR9, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Dinner at L'Atelier des Cousins

Indulge in a delightful dinner featuring traditional French cuisine with a contemporary twist.
Only a short 10-minute walk from the tower.
EUR30, 2 hours
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Day 2: Adventure in La Rochelle

La Rochelle, France on April 1, 2025

8:30 AM

Breakfast at Pain de Sucre

Start your day with freshly baked croissants and delightful coffee at this charming bakery.
Just 8 minutes from your hotel.
EUR12, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Visit the Maritime Museum

Dive into the maritime history of La Rochelle and its significant maritime heritage, great for curious kids!
A 12-minute walk from the bakery.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch Picnic at Parc Charruyer

Grab some baguettes and local cheese from a nearby market and enjoy a picnic amid the beautiful park.
Only a 15-minute walk from the museum.
EUR18, 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Bike along the seaside

Rent bikes for a family ride along the scenic coastline and enjoy the sea breeze.
Bike rental is available near the park entrance.
EUR15 per bike, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Relax at Plage des Minimes

Enjoy some beach time where kids can play in the sand while parents relax.
A short bike ride from the park.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Restaurant Les Flots

Savor fresh seafood and regional dishes with wonderful ocean views.
Located by the beach.
EUR35, 2 hours
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Day 3: Journey to Nantes

Nantes, France on April 2, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a complimentary breakfast at the hotel before checking out.
In-house at your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Drive to Nantes

Hit the road towards Nantes and enjoy the scenic views along the way.
Take A83 from La Rochelle to Nantes.
Fuel cost approximately EUR30, 2.5 hours

11:30 AM

Arrive at Nantes and Visit Machines of the Isle of Nantes

Discover enormous mechanical animals and enjoy thrilling rides made from art and engineering.
Located 10 minutes from your hotel.
EUR8, 2 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at La Cigale

Dine at this famous brasserie serving traditional French dishes in an opulent setting.
About a 10-minute walk from the machines.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Check-in at Hotel

Check into your hotel and refresh for the afternoon activities.
Transfer to your hotel by foot, which is nearby.
EUR120 (per night), 1 hour

4:00 PM

Explore Jules Verne Museum

Discover the world of Jules Verne through immersive exhibits and artifacts highlighting his literary genius.
Located 10 minutes from the hotel by taxi.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Restaurant Le Nid

Enjoy a unique dining experience atop the Tour Bretagne with stunning city views.
15-minute walk or a short taxi ride.
EUR40, 2 hours
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Day 4: Discover Nantes

Nantes, France on April 3, 2025

8:30 AM

Breakfast at Le Pain de Mon Grand-Père

Relish artisanal bread and pastries at this local favorite bakery to power up for the day.
Just a 5-minute walk from your hotel.
EUR10, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Visit Château des Ducs de Bretagne

Explore the medieval castle and its museum, great for learning about Nantes' history.
A 15-minute walk from the bakery.
EUR8, 2 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at La Petite Amazonie

Enjoy a casual lunch featuring a menu inspired by tropical flavors and local ingredients.
Nearby the castle, just a 10-minute walk.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Take a River Cruise on the Loire

Relax on a scenic river cruise to see the charming city views from the water.
Cruise departure point is 5 minutes away from the restaurant.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

4:30 PM

Visit the Botanical Garden

Explore the lush gardens and fountains, a perfect spot for kids to run around.
A 10-minute walk from the cruise terminal.
Free, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Dinner at Le Nid

Return to the stunning Le Nid for another delightful meal while enjoying the sunset views.
A 15-minute walk from the garden.
EUR40, 2 hours
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Day 5: Wrap Up in Nantes

Nantes, France on April 4, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at the hotel to kickstart your last day.
In-house at your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Musée des Beaux-Arts

Explore an impressive collection of fine arts, perfect for inspiring the young ones.
A quick 10-minute walk from your hotel.
EUR8, 2 hours

11:30 AM

Explore the Local Markets

Wander through the local markets, where you can buy fresh produce and unique souvenirs.
5-minute walk from the museum.
Free, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Lunch at La Table de la Bergerie

Enjoy local dishes made from seasonal ingredients in a cozy setting.
15-minute walk from the market.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Finale at Parc de Procé

Relax at this peaceful park, perfect for a final family gathering and photo opportunities.
A short 10-minute taxi ride.
Free, 1 hour

5:00 PM

End Trip

Head back home, filled with wonderful memories and experiences.
Departure to your next destination or home.
Travel cost varies, N/A
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