Your Guide to Driving from Bordeaux to Paris

If you're planning a road trip from Bordeaux, Nouvelle-Aquitaine to Paris, Île-de-France, you're in for a treat. The scenic French countryside is perfect for a leisurely drive, but considering the distance, you might be wondering how long it will take. Well, the time it takes to drive largely depends on the route you take and the traffic conditions. But don't worry, we've got you covered.

The Fastest and Slowest Routes

If time is of the essence, the E5 is the fastest route from Bordeaux to Paris. This route takes you through Poitiers and Orleans, covering approximately 592 km (367 miles). At the speed limit, this route takes around 6 hours to complete.

On the other hand, if you're not in a rush, you can take the scenic route via Limoges and Châteauroux using the N20 and D920 highways. This route is around 620 km (385 miles) and takes approximately 7 hours to complete.

Time Taken Based on Traffic Patterns

The time it takes to drive from Bordeaux to Paris also depends on traffic. Peak traffic times are between 8:00 am to 10:00 am and 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm during weekdays in major cities. Be prepared to spend extra time on the road if you're driving during these hours.

At peak traffic times, the fastest route via E5 will take around 7 hours, while the scenic route will take approximately 8 hours. During low traffic times, you can complete the E5 route in 5.5 hours and the scenic route in just over 6 hours.

Different Options for Different Drive Times

If you're looking to break up the journey with some stopovers, there are plenty of beautiful French cities along the way. The medieval city of Limoges and the art-lovers' paradise of Orléans are just a few of the fascinating places you can visit.

If you prefer to travel on public transportation, there are regular trains and buses running between Bordeaux and Paris. The train takes around 2 hours and 49 minutes, while the bus takes around 7 hours.

In Conclusion

Driving from Bordeaux to Paris is a great way to explore the French countryside while enjoying the convenience of your own vehicle. The time it takes to drive from Bordeaux to Paris largely depends on the route you take and the traffic conditions. But with proper planning and some stopovers, you can make the most out of your journey.