Driving Cost from Bordeaux, Nouvelle-Aquitaine to Saint-Claude, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of a Road Trip between Bordeaux and Saint-Claude: Navigating Gas Prices

Are you planning a trip between Bordeaux, located in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, and Saint-Claude in the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region of France? As you set off on a road trip between these two destinations, the first question that comes to mind would be - "How much will it cost me?"

With fluctuating gas prices, the answer to this question can vary widely based on your choice of route, mode of transportation, and driving habits. This article will take you through the different possible routes, their approximate prices and distances, and help you plan the most cost-efficient way to travel between Bordeaux and Saint-Claude.

Possible Routes

There are different driving routes between Bordeaux and Saint-Claude, each with its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on your travel preferences, time, and budget. Here are the three most common routes you can choose:

Route 1: Via A7

One of the most direct routes to travel between Bordeaux and Saint-Claude is via A7. This is the quickest option, but also one that requires the use of tolls, adding up to your expenses.

The route goes through Lyon, which means you can stop and enjoy this picturesque city by the Rhône river. You could also rest in Lyon for a night before continuing the journey. The journey takes approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes and covers a distance of around 775km.

  • Distance: 775 km
  • Time: 7 hours 30 minutes
  • Tolls: Approximately €47

Route 2: Via A71

The second route to consider is the one that goes through A71. Compared to the A7 route, it is a more scenic route. It runs through the famed wine region of Burgundy, which is a must-visit destination for wine lovers. It also has the advantage of no tolls, making it a cheaper option.

The route is almost as direct as the first one, taking approximately 8 hours and covering a distance of around 810 km.

  • Distance: 810 km
  • Time: 8 hours
  • Tolls: None

Route 3: Via A89 and then A71

The third alternative is to take A89 to Clermont-Ferrand and then get on the A71 to the destination. This option is the longest in terms of travel time, but it does have its merits. It takes you through the heart of the Massif Central region in France, which is rich in regional history, culture, and scenic views.

Be advised this route can be time-consuming unless you plan for stops in one of the towns on the way. This trip requires a minimum of two days’ stay, meaning you have to factor in additional expenses like food, hotel expenses, and fuel. It covers a distance of approximately 958 km and takes about 10 hours of driving.

  • Distance: 958 km
  • Time: 10 hours
  • Tolls: Approximately €10-€12.

Based on the routes mentioned above, the best option is Route 2, the one that goes through the wine and castle-dotted region of Burgundy. This route is the most scenic and does not incur any toll costs. Since it is also longer than the A7 route, it will cost you more on fuel. However, with this route, you’ll have the advantage of fewer tolls and more opportunities to explore the region, which, in my opinion, is worth the additional fuel expenses.

Fuel Cost

The cost of fuel is going to be one of your most significant expenses for your road trip. On average, a litre of petrol is between €1.40 and €1.70 in France. Here is an estimated fuel cost for cars measuring one litre per 12 km at the current prices (as of 18th November 2021).

Route 1:

  • Distance: 775km
  • Petrol cost per litre: €1.55
  • Total fuel cost: €99.45

Route 2:

  • Distance: 810km
  • Petrol cost per litre: €1.55
  • Total fuel cost: €104.89

Route 3:

  • Distance: 958 km
  • Petrol cost per litre: €1.55
  • Total fuel cost: €124.24

Bear in mind that fuel prices are subject to change, and the amounts listed above are an approximation based on current trends.

Final Travel Costs

Let's say you're driving a mid-sized car or renting one. Here is an estimated price for each trip that includes fuel costs and tolls.

Route 1:

  • Fuel cost: €99.45
  • Tolls: €47
  • Average food and entertainment expense per person, per day: €50
  • Hotel expense: €100 per night

Total cost for a weekend (Friday to Monday) for two people = €700 - €900.

Route 2:

  • Fuel cost: €104.89
  • Tolls: None
  • Average food and entertainment expense per person, per day: €50
  • Hotel expense: €100-€150 per night

Total cost for a weekend (Friday to Monday) for two people = €450 - €650.

Route 3:

  • Fuel cost: €124.24
  • Tolls: €10-€12
  • Average food and entertainment expense per person, per day: €50
  • Hotel expense: €100-€150 per night

Total cost for a weekend (Friday to Monday) for two people = €700 - €900.

Remember that the figures mentioned above are estimates and highly dependent on factors such as your driving habits, fuel prices, and hotel choices.

Conclusion

Your road trip from Bordeaux to Saint-Claude can be a memorable adventure or an expensive nightmare depending on how well you plan your travel expenses. Route 2 that takes you through the heart of Burgundy comes recommended as both a cost-efficient option with no tolls and a scenic route filled with opportunities for good food, wine, and sightseeing. Whatever you choose, the tips and estimates outlined in this article will help you plan a successful trip with minimal surprises in store. Happy travels!