7-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Pau to Tarbes, Carcassonne, Toulouse, and Albi

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Explore the best of France on a 7-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Pau, Lourdes, Aspin-en-Lavedan, Tarbes, Carcassonne, Toulouse, Albi, and Auch. This road trip itinerary in France seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in France takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Pau, 1 night in Tarbes, 1 night in Carcassonne, 1 night in Toulouse, and 1 night in Albi. 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 got you covered.

Upon arriving in Pau, 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. Cité De Carcassonne and Albi Cathedral are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Basilica Of St. Sernin, learn more about the unique Jardin Des Plantes, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Château Comtal.

As you hit the open road and drive through Pau, Lourdes, Aspin-en-Lavedan, Tarbes, Carcassonne, Toulouse, Albi, and Auch, 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, accommodation, 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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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Parc Beaumont
Sanctuary of Our Lady of LourdesBasilica of Our Lady of the RosaryBasilica of St. Pius Xfuniculaire du pic du JerMassey Garden
Château comtal de CarcassonneCité de CarcassonneMusée de l'EcoleChurch of Saints Nazaire and Celse
Jardin des PlantesMuséum de ToulousePont-NeufCouvent des JacobinsBasilica of St. SerninSquare Charles de Gaulle
Sainte-Cecile Cathedral of AlbiBerbie PalaceMusée Toulouse-LautrecPont VieuxCollégiale Saint-SalvyJardin National
Park CoulouméMusée des JacobinsCathédrale Sainte-Marie
place Clémenceau

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques - Arrival day
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  • Parc Beaumont
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Say hello to Pau! Your exciting road trip through France is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the town. You will stay in Pau for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

Pau is a beautiful town 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 Parc Beaumont, or just taking a stroll in the town center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Pau. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime 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 Pau, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Le Henri IV, a top-rated dining spot in Pau. If you're in the mood for something new, try Le Garage, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Au Fin Gourmet. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Pau.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Snug, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Winfield Café is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, The Galway also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in France!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques
  • Tarbes
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Drive 70 km, 1 hour 43 min

  • Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes
  • Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary
  • Basilica of St. Pius X
  • funiculaire du pic du Jer
  • Massey Garden
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Lourdes, Aspin-en-Lavedan, and Tarbes. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Tarbes. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Pau is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots! Start at Sanctuary Of Our Lady Of Lourdes, a curiosity-inducing church that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Rosary, enchanting visitors with its inviting appeal. Continue your exploration at Basilica Of St. Pius X. This minor basilica is one of the town’s most beloved spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Pau at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Funiculaire Du Pic Du Jer. After exploring the tramway, head to the worthwhile Massey Garden.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Tarbes. Tarbes offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Tarbes. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Tarbes.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Tarbes
  • Carcassonne
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Drive 243 km, 2 hours 39 min

  • Château comtal de Carcassonne
  • Cité de Carcassonne
  • Musée de l'Ecole
  • Church of Saints Nazaire and Celse
  • More

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Carcassonne, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Carcassonne. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Tarbes, including a castle, a museum, and a church. Start your adventure at Château Comtal. This underrated castle is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Cité De Carcassonne located in Tarbes for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Musée De L'ecole. Its instagrammable features will captivate you. After the museum, continue your tour of the town with a visit to Basilique Saint Nazaire. Visitors usually appreciate the visually striking features of this church.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Carcassonne, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Carcassonne. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Brasserie a 4 Temps, an iconic dining spot in Carcassonne. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of La Rapière, a popular restaurant in Carcassonne. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Le Domaine d'Auriac, a hidden gem nestled in Carcassonne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Carcassonne
  • Toulouse
  • More

Drive 95 km, 1 hour 52 min

  • Jardin des Plantes
  • Muséum de Toulouse
  • Pont-Neuf
  • Couvent des Jacobins
  • Basilica of St. Sernin
  • Square Charles de Gaulle
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Toulouse. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Toulouse, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at the worthwhile Jardin Des Plantes, a majestic botanical garden in Carcassonne. Next, go to Muséum De Toulouse.

After visiting Jardin Des Plantes and Muséum De Toulouse, have a stroll along Carcassonne's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Pont-neuf. This majestic monument offers a unique experience. Couvent Des Jacobins is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Basilica Of St. Sernin, one of the most monumental places to visit in Carcassonne. If you still have some time left for sightseeing, we also recommend stopping by Square Charles De Gaulle.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Toulouse. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurant Le May, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, L*Agence is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Le Perche Pinte. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Toulouse tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Moloko. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to The Botanist Pub, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Melting Pot Pub provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Say good night to Toulouse and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Toulouse
  • Albi
  • More

Drive 76 km, 1 hour 21 min

  • Sainte-Cecile Cathedral of Albi
  • Berbie Palace
  • Musée Toulouse-Lautrec
  • Pont Vieux
  • Collégiale Saint-Salvy
  • Jardin National
  • More

On day 5 of your road trip in France, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Albi. In the evening, you’ll end up in Albi, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Toulouse includes a church, a palace, a museum, a historical landmark, a park and much more! Albi Cathedral is must-visit church and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Berbie Palace, a curiosity-inducing palace, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Musée Toulouse-lautrec, an eye-catching museum, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Toulouse. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the intriguing Pont Vieux. If you’re looking for more, Collégiale Saint-salvy (albi) is also a frequently visited attraction that is worthwhile a visit. Lastly, don’t miss Jardin National, a place of idyllic interest in the town.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Albi. Albi offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As you explore more of Albi, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Have a fantastic dining experience at O'Sully'S Albi, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in France.

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Albi
  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques
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Drive 261 km, 4 hours 6 min

  • Park Couloumé
  • Musée des Jacobins
  • Cathédrale Sainte-Marie
  • More

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Auch. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Pau, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Albi is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a park, a museum, and a church. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the often recommended Park Couloumé and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Musée Des Jacobins, a heritage-rich museum that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Cathédrale Sainte-marie, one of the town’s most frequently visited spots that you shouldn’t miss.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Pau, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Pau. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Don’t miss out on dining at Resto Dit Vin, a top-rated dining destination in Pau. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant L' Ardoise, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Little Monkey Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Pau this evening.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques - Departure day
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  • place Clémenceau
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Day 7 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Pau 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 Place Clémenceau. This often recommended public square is a popular place to see in the town.

As your final day in France unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Pau's best shopping area, Les Halles de Pau. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to France.

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

Savor the flavors at m Restaurant, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Maynats beckons with its unique menu offerings.

You’ll then say farewell to Pau. 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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