10-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Pau traveling east to Bordeaux, Sarlat La Caneda, Toulouse, Montpellier, and Nimes

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 10-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, 1 night in Bordeaux, 1 night in Sarlat La Caneda, 2 nights in Toulouse, 2 nights in Montpellier, and 1 night in Nimes. 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 Palais Des Papes are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Padirac Cave, learn more about the unique La Cité Du Vin, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Place De La Bourse.

As you hit the open road and drive through Pau, Lormont, Bordeaux, Montignac-Lascaux, Padirac, Beynac-et-Cazenac, Sarlat La Caneda, Rocamadour, Toulouse, Carcassonne, Montpellier, Avignon, Nimes, and Lourdes, 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

Itinerary summary

See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize

Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Parc Beaumont
Cité du Vinjardin publicplace de la BourseThe big bell of BordeauxBordeaux Cathedral
Lascaux 2Padirac CaveChâteau de Beynac
Grotte des CarbonnièresRocher des AiglesSanctuaire Notre-Dame de RocamadourMonkey ForestLa Maison des Abeilles
Jardin des PlantesMuséum de ToulousePont-NeufCouvent des JacobinsPlace Saint-PierreBasilica of St. Sernin
Saint Michael of CarcassonneChâteau comtal de CarcassonnePorte NarbonnaiseCité de CarcassonneChurch of Saints Nazaire and Celse

Personalize your itinerary

Customize tours under each day and destination

Day 1

Day 1

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

Your road trip adventure in France begins as soon as you reach Pau and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Pau for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the town.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Le Henri IV, a highly-rated dining destination in Pau. If you're eager to try something different, consider Le Garage, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Au Fin Gourmet. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Pau this evening.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Snug, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Winfield Café, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, The Galway provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Raise a toast to the start of your 10-day road trip in France!

Read more
Day 2

Day 2

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques
  • Bordeaux
  • More

Drive 227 km, 3 hours 16 min

  • Cité du Vin
  • jardin public
  • place de la Bourse
  • The big bell of Bordeaux
  • 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 2 vibrant destinations - Lormont and Bordeaux. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bordeaux. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Get ready for an exciting day in Pau. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a museum, a park, a public square, a historical landmark, a church and much more! Begin your adventure at La Cité Du Vin. This is a notable museum you should not miss. Another must-see is Jardin Public, a notable park in Pau.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Place De La Bourse. From there, take a leisurely stroll to The Big Bell Of Bordeaux, another of the town’s frequently visited attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Bordeaux Cathedral, a culturally significant place of interest in the town.

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 explore more of Bordeaux, 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 wonderful meal at Le Cent 33, a top-rated dining spot in Bordeaux. If you're in the mood for something new, try L'Originel, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Le Clemenceau. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bordeaux.

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

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

Read more
Day 3

Day 3

  • Bordeaux
  • Sarlat-la-Canéda
  • More

Drive 328 km, 4 hours 56 min

  • Lascaux 2
  • Padirac Cave
  • Château de Beynac
  • More

On day 3 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 Montignac-Lascaux, Padirac, and Beynac-et-Cazenac. In the evening, you’ll end up in Sarlat La Caneda, where you will stay for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Bordeaux. Some of the village’s most loved attractions await! Lascaux is the perfect place to start. This cave is one of the most underrated places to visit in Bordeaux. Next, head to Padirac Cave, a well-known cave, known for its picturesque features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Château De Beynac. This romantic castle is a highly recommended experience. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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

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 4

Day 4

  • Sarlat-la-Canéda
  • Toulouse
  • More

Drive 220 km, 4 hours 2 min

  • Grotte des Carbonnières
  • Rocher des Aigles
  • Sanctuaire Notre-Dame de Rocamadour
  • Monkey Forest
  • La Maison des Abeilles
  • More

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Les Boulangers and Rocamadour. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Toulouse, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Today’s itinerary in Sarlat La Caneda covers several incredible sights, including a cave, a bird watching area, a church, a wildlife reserve, a museum and much more! Start your adventure at Grotte Des Carbonnières. This often recommended cave is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the scenic wonders of Le Rocher Des Aigles, a must-see bird watching area in the hamlet.

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 Sanctuaire Notre-dame De Rocamadour. This worthwhile church offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Monkey Forest, where you can take in picturesque features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to La Maison Des Abeilles. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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.

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 delicious dinner at Restaurant Le May, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? L*Agence offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Perche Pinte. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Toulouse.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Moloko, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, The Botanist Pub offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Melting Pot Pub provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Read more
Day 5

Day 5

  • Toulouse
  • More

Drive 5 km, 1 hour 14 min

  • Jardin des Plantes
  • Muséum de Toulouse
  • Pont-Neuf
  • Couvent des Jacobins
  • Place Saint-Pierre
  • Basilica of St. Sernin
  • More

Day 5 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Toulouse has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Toulouse by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Toulouse. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Jardin Des Plantes is the perfect place to start. This botanical garden is one of the most curiosity-inducing places to visit in Toulouse. Next, head to Muséum De Toulouse, a locally appreciated museum, known for its photogenic features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Pont-neuf. This visually striking monument is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Couvent Des Jacobins and Place Saint-pierre. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey. Finish the day with a visit to Basilica Of St. Sernin, a breathtaking church in Toulouse.

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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at La Faim des Haricots/TOULOUSE CENTRE VILLE, a top-rated dining destination in Toulouse. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Madame Bovary, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Au Pois Gourmand restaurant gastronomique. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Toulouse this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Pub O'clock, known for its inviting atmosphere. La Loupiote is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Café Populaire provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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 6

Day 6

  • Toulouse
  • Montpellier
  • More

Drive 247 km, 3 hours 6 min

  • Saint Michael of Carcassonne
  • Château comtal de Carcassonne
  • Porte Narbonnaise
  • Cité de Carcassonne
  • Church of Saints Nazaire and Celse
  • More

Dive into day 6 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 Montpellier. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in Toulouse. Begin your sightseeing with Carcassonne Cathedral. This increasingly popular catholic cathedral is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Château Comtal, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Toulouse, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Porte Narbonnaise. This curiosity-inducing monument is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Cité De Carcassonne, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Basilique Saint Nazaire 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 Montpellier, 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 Montpellier's best restaurants.

Dine in style at Le Palavasien, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Les Enfants Rouges boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Le Tord Boyaux. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Montpellier.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Triskell Montpellier, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Kraken Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Le Rebuffy offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Read more
Day 7

Day 7

  • Montpellier
  • More

Drive 2 km, 33 min

  • Comedy Square
  • esplanade Charles de Gaulle
  • Musée Fabre
  • Montpellier Cathedral
  • Jardin des plantes de Montpellier
  • Arc de Triomphe
  • More

On day 7 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Montpellier. You’ll stay in Montpellier for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is Comedy Square. This notable public square is a history-steeped place to see in Montpellier. Continue your discovery at Esplanade Charles De Gaulle, a romantic park with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Montpellier, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Fabre Museum. This curiosity-inducing museum offers a visually striking encounter with Montpellier. Next, make your way to Montpellier Cathedral to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Jardin Des Plantes De Montpellier, a worthwhile botanical garden that’s sure to impress. If you’re up for more, end your self-guided sightseeing tour at Arc De Triomphe, a curiosity-inducing monument in the city. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Montpellier.

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.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Le Paresseur Restaurant | Montpellier Centre, a popular restaurant in Montpellier. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Montpellier at La Banane, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Le Petit Troc. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Montpellier tonight.

Continue your lively evening at Black Out, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Le Petit Nice is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Espit Chupitos Montpellier ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Read more
Day 8

Day 8

  • Montpellier
  • Nîmes
  • More

Drive 142 km, 2 hours 31 min

  • Calvet Museum
  • Palais du Roure
  • Basilique Saint-Pierre
  • Palais des Papes
  • Jardin des doms
  • Pont d'Avignon
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Avignon. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Nimes, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Montpellier allows for both. Start by heading to Musée Calvet (avignon, France). This underrated museum provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Palais Du Roure, a historic museum, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Église Saint Pierre (avignon), a curiosity-inducing church. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the well-known Palais Des Papes. Not far away from the palace, you will find the romantic Pont Saint-benezet (le Pont D'avignon), perfect for a quick visit. Round off your day at Jardin Des Doms, another gem in Montpellier with stunning features to discover.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at La Galerie, a top-rated dining destination in Nimes. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Annaba Café, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hôtel des Tuileries. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Nimes this evening.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at La Bonne Mousse, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to O’flaherty’s. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at News Café, another top-rated place in the area.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

Read more
Day 9

Day 9

  • Nîmes
  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques
  • More

Drive 499 km, 5 hours 25 min

  • Jardin de La Fontaine
  • Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary
  • Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes
  • More

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 - Nimes and Lourdes. 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.

Today's adventure in Nimes promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Jardin De La Fontaine. This romantic park is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Rosary, another culturally significant attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Sanctuary Of Our Lady Of Lourdes, one of the city’s most curiosity-inducing attractions, known for its stunning features.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal 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.

Head back to your accommodation in Pau and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!

Read more
Day 10

Day 10

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

Day 10 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, we recommend visiting Place Clémenceau, a photogenic public square before you head out.

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 delicious dinner at m Restaurant, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Maynats offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Café du Passage.

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.