Location: Tours
Day 1 - 19 Aug 2021
Château de Tours
Content: The first city of our road trip was Tours. We visited on a Thursday, and the city was actually unexpectedly quiet. That made it nice for exploring, though. Once the evening rolled around, it picked up quite a bit. We parked near the Château de Tours and walked around the castle. It wasn’t open when we arrived, but there’s some kind of art exhibit inside that the public can visit.
PONT DE FIL - PASSERELLE de SAINT SYMPHORIEN - TOURS
Content: We went for a walk around the area we parked, and ended up on this pedestrian and biker bridge offering beautiful views of the nearby cathedral.
Cathédrale Saint-Gatien
Content: Walked to this beautiful cathedral. It’s open to the public, but if you’re under 26 you can also get into another part for free, which allows you to climb up to get a unique view. You’re also able to view art from various artists displayed inside the cathedral.
La Fabrique à Jus
Content: Stopped for a snack and smoothie at this little spot. The staff is very nice and the food is delicious!
Place Plumereau
Content: Walked around this charming area with traditional French architecture to scout out where we’d eat dinner.
Basilique Saint-Martin de Tours
Content: Toured the area around this historic structure. Used to be massive, but parts collapsed over the years. Size marked in light-colored bricks on the street. History signs written in English and French which was nice.
Pont Wilson
Content: Walked on the Pont Wilson bridge, which is the main bridge through Tours and runs over the Loire river. We stopped for a drink by the river too. There are plenty of places to sit and sip by the water!
Hôtel Mirabeau
Content: We stayed at Hotel Mirabeau. Overall the stay was fine for one night. However, there was no air conditioning, the shower flooded the whole bathroom, the wifi was weak, and the pillows were very unsupportive. No major issues though.
La Bigouden
Content: Finally, had a delicious dinner at this crêperie in the old city center, and dessert at The Yogurt Factory. (That bubble waffle was to die for)
Location: Bordeaux
Day 2 - 20 Aug 2021
Rue Sainte-Catherine
Content: We woke up early to drive from Tours to Bordeaux and arrived around 12pm. Our first stops were Porte d’Aquitaine and Rue Sainte-Catherine. This is one of the most popular streets in Bordeaux, as it’s where most shops are located.
Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux
Content: We followed Rue Sainte-Catherine to the main downtown area where the Opera theater is located. We also picked up some cannelés on the way. (Cannelé is a delicious French pastry that originated in Bordeaux) If you’re visiting, you can’t leave the city without trying one!
Monument aux Girondins
Content: We then visited this beautiful fountain and took some nice photos. It was a bit touristy, but not overly crowded.
Le miroir d'eau
Content: We headed down by the banks and saw these cool sculptures from a popular cartoon “Le Chat”. And we also waded through the water in Miroir d’eau. It was a hot day, so it was pretty crowded.
Flèche de la Basilique Saint-Michel
Content: You’re able to walk around and underneath this magnificent tower. You can also enter inside the Basilica of St. Michael. There are several nice places around the basilique where you can have a drink and enjoy the view.
Café Japonais
Content: We had dinner at Café Japonais and it was delicious! Would highly recommend this place.
Hôtel Mercure Bordeaux Cité Mondiale Centre-Ville
Content: We stayed at Hôtel Mercure while in Bordeaux and we had a great experience. Not only was the room very nice, but they also provided plenty of toiletries, free beverages in the fridge, and tea and coffee as well. Plus, we were lucky and our room had a beautiful view! Only a 15-20 walk to Rue Sainte-Catherine. Would highly recommend this place if you’re staying in Bordeaux.
Location: Pessac
Day 3 - 21 Aug 2021
Château Pape Clément
Content: After grabbing a late breakfast at a PAUL on Rue Sainte-Catherine, we drove to do a wine tour and tasting at Château Pape Clément. It’s only about a 20 minute drive from Bordeaux. We paid €20 for an hour-long tour of the grounds and in-depth explanation of the wine-making process, then we’re able to taste 3 of their wines. They offer tours in both English and French. You’re also able to stay on the grounds of the castle as long as you want after the tour to take pictures or just explore. We really enjoyed this experience!
ibis Bordeaux Pessac
Content: This hotel was pretty average. Provided the basics and was fine for a night. The highlight was definitely the breakfast. There were tons of choices and everything was delicious!
Location:
Day 3 - 21 Aug 2021
Dune of Pilat
Content: We ended the day by driving about an hour to Dune du Pilat. This is such a cool spot in the south of France. It’s the tallest sand dune in Europe, and offers gorgeous views. Pack a picnic and enjoy the sunset!
Location: Chambord
Day 4 - 22 Aug 2021
Château de Chambord
Content: We started our journey back up to the north. Drove about 4 hours to this gorgeous castle. Plan to spend about 3 hours here if you want to see everything. One of the most gorgeous castles I’ve ever seen!
Location: Orléans
Day 4 - 22 Aug 2021
Hotel Escale Oceania Orléans
Content: After the castle we drove to this hotel that we reserved for the night. This was our second favorite stay of the trip. The hotel was very nice, provided Rituals toiletries (we’re big fans of Rituals), and we even had a view of the river across the street. Would highly recommend this place for a night in Orléans.
Location: Orléans
Day 5 - 23 Aug 2021
Columbus Café & Co
Content: Stopped for breakfast. It was delicious! On the pricier side, but very good. There weren’t many places open because it was a Monday, so food options were limited.
Maison de Jeanne d'Arc
Content: The famous Jean d’Arc lived here in Orléans. You can tour the house/museum usually, but we weren’t able to because it was a Monday so it was closed. PRO TIP: Don’t visit Orléans on a Monday!
Place du Martroi
Content: Here is where the tourism office is located. You can also admire the beautiful statue of Jean d’Arc, and snap a pic in the giant ‘O’.
Cathédrale Sainte-Croix d'Orléans
Content: One of the largest and most beautiful cathedrals in France. Lots of history and incredible architecture.
Mairie d'Orléans
Content: You can tour the old city hall for free. The interior design and architecture is really interesting to see.
Location: Paris
Day 6 - 24 Aug 2021
Tuileries Garden
Content: You can drive about 2 hours from Orléans to end your road trip in Paris! We bought some groceries and enjoyed a picnic here in the afternoon.
Palais-Royal
Content: Stop by one of the many popular Instagram photo spots in Paris! It’s right next to the Jardin des Tuileries.
Champ de Mars
Content: Enjoy the wonderful views of the Eiffel Tower at Champ de Mars.
Au Chien Qui Fume
Content: This spot is amazing for happy hour drinks! The drinks are AMAZING the the staff was super friendly!