One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Pau traveling north to Bordeaux, Sarlat La Caneda, and Carcassonne

Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Included

Flights
Select dates
Hotel
Select dates
Car rental
Select dates
Tours & tickets
Select dates
Travel plan
All inclusive app
Travel agent
24/7 fast service

Description

Escape the ordinary with this exciting 8-day road trip through France. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

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, 2 nights in Bordeaux, 2 nights in Sarlat La Caneda, and 1 night in Carcassonne. 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 Dune Of Pilat are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Place De La Bourse, learn more about the unique Château De Beynac, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Miroir D'eau.

As you hit the open road and drive through Pau, Bordeaux, Arcachon, Saint-Sulpice-de-Faleyrens, Saint-Émilion, Calviac-en-Périgord, Sarlat La Caneda, Montignac-Lascaux, Beynac-et-Cazenac, Castelnaud-la-Chapelle, La Roque-Gageac, Carcassonne, and Toulouse, 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!

Read more

Travel details

Set your travel details to find the best price

Flights

Round trip
Round trip
Travel dates

Travelers

Rooms

Flights

Compare and choose from the best flights to Pau

Car

Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options

Driver’s age is 30 - 65
I live in

Itinerary summary

See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize

Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Parc Beaumont
Musée du Vin et du Négoce de Bordeauxplace de la Boursemiroir d'eauPorte CailhauBordeaux Cathedral
Parc MauresqueDune of PilatChâteau MauvinonMonolithic Church of Saint-Emilion
Zoological Reserve CalviacLa Forêt des ÉcureuilsManor Gisson
Lascaux 2Château de BeynacCastelnaud-la-Chapelle CastleThe Marqueyssac gardens
Château comtal de CarcassonneCité de CarcassonneChurch of Saints Nazaire and Celse
Muséum de ToulouseMusée des AugustinsSquare Charles de GaulleBasilica of St. SerninCouvent des JacobinsPont-Neuf
place Clémenceau

Personalize your itinerary

Customize tours under each day and destination

Day 1

Day 1

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques - Arrival day
  • More
  • Parc Beaumont
  • More

Welcome to Pau, the perfect starting point for your road trip in France! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Pau's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

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.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Pau. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in France. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the town.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Le Henri IV, a top-rated dining destination in Pau. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Le Garage, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Au Fin Gourmet. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Pau this evening.

Continue your lively evening at Snug, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Winfield Café is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, The Galway ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in France!

Read more
Day 2

Day 2

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques
  • Bordeaux
  • More

Drive 221 km, 2 hours 44 min

  • Musée du Vin et du Négoce de Bordeaux
  • place de la Bourse
  • miroir d'eau
  • Porte Cailhau
  • Bordeaux Cathedral
  • 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 1 vibrant destinations - Bordeaux. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bordeaux. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and picturesque spots in Pau. Begin your sightseeing with Musée Du Vin Et Du Négoce De Bordeaux. This worthwhile museum is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Place De La Bourse, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Pau, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Miroir D'eau. This well-known art installation is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Porte Cailhau, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Bordeaux Cathedral is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Bordeaux, 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 Bordeaux. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Le Cent 33, an iconic dining spot in Bordeaux. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of L'Originel, a popular restaurant in Bordeaux. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Le Clemenceau, a hidden gem nestled in Bordeaux. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Café Brun. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Le Mushroom Café, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Whose Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.

Read more
Day 3

Day 3

  • Bordeaux
  • More

Drive 243 km, 3 hours 37 min

  • Parc Mauresque
  • Dune of Pilat
  • Château Mauvinon
  • Monolithic Church of Saint-Emilion
  • More

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bordeaux, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Today's adventure in Bordeaux promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Parc Mauresque. This mesmerizing park is a highlight of any visit in the town. Then, enjoy Dune Of Pilat, another idyllic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Château Mauvinon, one of the town’s most often recommended attractions, known for its visually striking features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Monolithic Church Of Saint-emilion. This breathtaking church is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Bordeaux and your accommodation.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at L'Oiseau Bleu, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurant Soléna offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Hôtel De Sèze. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bordeaux.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to The Grizzly Pub, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, The Dog And Duck provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

Read more
Day 4

Day 4

  • Bordeaux
  • Sarlat-la-Canéda
  • More

Drive 224 km, 2 hours 56 min

  • Zoological Reserve Calviac
  • La Forêt des Écureuils
  • Manor Gisson
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Calviac-en-Périgord, La Falgueyrade, and Sarlat La Caneda. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Sarlat La Caneda, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Bordeaux allows for both. Start by heading to Zoological Reserve Calviac. This frequently visited zoo provides an insightful glimpse into the village's identity. Next, discover La Forêt Des Écureuils, a picture-perfect adventure park, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Manor Gisson, a locally appreciated museum.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Sarlat La Caneda. Sarlat La Caneda 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 Sarlat La Caneda, 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.

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.

Read more
Day 5

Day 5

  • Sarlat-la-Canéda
  • More

Drive 84 km, 1 hour 38 min

  • Lascaux 2
  • Château de Beynac
  • Castelnaud-la-Chapelle Castle
  • The Marqueyssac gardens
  • More

On day 5 of your road trip in France, you’ll start and end your day in Sarlat La Caneda, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the town. Since you will return to Sarlat La Caneda for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Montignac-Lascaux, Beynac-et-Cazenac, Castelnaud-la-Chapelle, and La Roque-Gageac to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Today’s itinerary in Sarlat La Caneda covers several incredible sights, including a cave, a castle, and a botanical garden. Start your adventure at Lascaux. This often recommended cave is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the enchanting wonders of Château De Beynac, a must-see castle in the village.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Castelnaud-la-chapelle Castle. This well-known castle offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to The Marqueyssac Gardens, where you can take in romantic features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Sarlat La Caneda.

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

Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Read more
Day 6

Day 6

  • Sarlat-la-Canéda
  • Carcassonne
  • More

Drive 293 km, 3 hours 21 min

  • Château comtal de Carcassonne
  • Cité de Carcassonne
  • Church of Saints Nazaire and Celse
  • More

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

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Whether you decide to explore Sarlat La Caneda on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Château Comtal is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this enchanting castle before continuing your journey. Cité De Carcassonne is your next stop. This impressive castle is one of the best-rated sights in Sarlat La Caneda.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Basilique Saint Nazaire. This visually striking church is a sight to behold.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Carcassonne. 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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Brasserie a 4 Temps, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try La Rapière? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Le Domaine d'Auriac as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Carcassonne.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!

Read more
Day 7

Day 7

  • Carcassonne
  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques
  • More

Drive 291 km, 3 hours 53 min

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

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Toulouse, 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 Pau. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. Start at the locally appreciated Muséum De Toulouse, a photogenic museum in Carcassonne. Next, go to Musée Des Augustins.

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

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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Resto Dit Vin, a highly-rated dining destination in Pau. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurant L' Ardoise, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Little Monkey Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Pau this evening.

Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Read more
Day 8

Day 8

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques - Departure day
  • More
  • place Clémenceau
  • More

Day 8 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 worthwhile public square is a popular place to see in the town.

Make the most of your final day in France by visiting Pau’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Centre Bosquet. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in France.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at m Restaurant, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Maynats? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

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!

Read more

Similar travel packages

Discover other popular vacations in France

Link to appstore phone
Install Europe’s biggest travel app

Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.