10-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Pau to Lourdes, Carcassonne, Toulouse, and Sarlat La Caneda

On day 2 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 Pau and Lourdes. In the evening, you’ll end up in Lourdes, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Start your day with a visit to Musée Des Beaux-arts De Pau. This increasingly popular museum is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Parc Beaumont, which may be one of the most awe-inspiring places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Pau on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Château Fort Musée Pyrénéen, an underrated museum in the town. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Le Cachot.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Lourdes, 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 Lourdes. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Dine in style at Hôtel Roissy, Lourdes, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Grand Hôtel Gallia & Londres Bike & NUXE Spa boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Hôtel Saint-Sébastien. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Lourdes.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

Wake up to day 3 of your extraordinary road trip in France. With 1 night left in Lourdes, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the town’s surroundings!

Begin your adventure at Musée Sainte-bernadette. This is an increasingly popular museum you should not miss. Another must-see is Basilica Of St. Pius X, an often recommended minor basilica in Lourdes.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Rosary. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Sanctuary Of Our Lady Of Lourdes, another of the town’s increasingly popular attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Funiculaire Du Pic Du Jer, a mesmerizing place of interest in the town.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Hôtel Sainte Rose, a highly-rated dining destination in Lourdes. If you're eager to try something different, consider Hôtel Alba, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hôtel La Source - Lourdes. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Lourdes this evening.

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

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 Carcassonne. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Carcassonne, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Lourdes today. One of the most up-and-coming attractions included on the itinerary is Château Comtal. This visually striking castle will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Cité De Carcassonne and learn what makes this romantic castle unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the locally appreciated Musée De L'ecole. After exploring the museum, head to Basilique Saint Nazaire. This increasingly popular church is a highlight in Lourdes.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Brasserie a 4 Temps, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? La Rapière offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Domaine d'Auriac. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Carcassonne.

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

Dive into day 5 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 Toulouse. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, picturesque spots, and romantic experiences. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Les Abattoirs. This beloved art gallery is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Pont Saint-pierre De Toulouse, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Place Saint-pierre, one of the most up-and-coming places to see in Carcassonne. This public square is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Basilica Of St. Sernin. Wander around and soak in the symbolic atmosphere this church offers. Then, head to Musée Des Augustins, a top-rated museum that adds another dimension to your day. Finally, visit the beloved Square Charles De Gaulle, the last of our attraction recommendations for today.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurant Le May, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, L*Agence offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Le Perche Pinte is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Toulouse.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Moloko, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Botanist Pub provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Melting Pot Pub offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Toulouse. You’ll stay in Toulouse for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at the often recommended Couvent Des Jacobins, a historic monastery in Toulouse. Next, go to Pont-neuf.

After visiting Couvent Des Jacobins and Pont-neuf, have a stroll along Toulouse's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Saint Stephen's Cathedral. This awe-inspiring church offers a unique experience. Grand Rond is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Muséum De Toulouse, one of the most eye-catching places to visit in Toulouse. If you still have some time left for sightseeing, we also recommend stopping by Jardin Des Plantes.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. France is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Toulouse's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at La Faim des Haricots/TOULOUSE CENTRE VILLE, a top-rated dining spot in Toulouse. If you're in the mood for something new, try Madame Bovary, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Au Pois Gourmand restaurant gastronomique. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Toulouse.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Pub O'clock, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, La Loupiote offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Café Populaire provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Calviac-en-Périgord, La Falgueyrade, and Sarlat La Caneda. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Sarlat La Caneda, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Toulouse, including a zoo, an adventure park, and a museum. Start your adventure at Zoological Reserve Calviac. This worthwhile zoo is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to La Forêt Des Écureuils located in Toulouse for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Manor Gisson. Its eye-catching features will captivate you.

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

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

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

On day 8 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Sarlat La Caneda, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate town. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Montignac-Lascaux, Domme, La Roque-Gageac, and Beynac-et-Cazenac. You still have 1 night left in Sarlat La Caneda.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, natural wonders, and photo-friendly spots. The first attraction of today is Lascaux. This beloved cave is a majestic place to see in Sarlat La Caneda. Continue your discovery at Lascaux International Center Of Parietal Art, a history-steeped museum with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Sarlat La Caneda, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this village so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Panorama. This worthwhile observation deck offers a stunning encounter with Sarlat La Caneda. Next, make your way to The Marqueyssac Gardens to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Château De Beynac, a popular castle that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Sarlat La Caneda.

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

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 9 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Talence and Bordeaux. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Pau. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Get ready for an exciting day in Sarlat La Caneda. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a castle, a historical landmark, a public square, an art installation, a museum and much more! Begin your adventure at Château Peixotto. This is a frequently visited castle you should not miss. Another must-see is The Big Bell Of Bordeaux, a frequently visited historical landmark in Sarlat La Caneda.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Place De La Bourse. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Miroir D'eau, another of the town’s popular attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Musée Du Vin Et Du Négoce De Bordeaux, an instagrammable place of 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 Pau. Pau 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 Pau, 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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Resto Dit Vin, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant L' Ardoise? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Little Monkey Bar as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Pau.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!