11-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Pau to Biarritz, Bordeaux, and Toulouse and surrounding area

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Explore the best of France on a 11-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Pau, Biarritz, Bidart, Bayonne, Bordeaux, Margaux-Cantenac, Saint-Émilion, Arcachon, Gujan-Mestras, Toulouse, Carcassonne, and Lourdes. 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, 2 nights in Biarritz, 3 nights in Bordeaux, and 3 nights in Toulouse. 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 Rocher De La Vierge, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Miroir D'eau.

As you hit the open road and drive through Pau, Biarritz, Bidart, Bayonne, Bordeaux, Margaux-Cantenac, Saint-Émilion, Arcachon, Gujan-Mestras, Toulouse, Carcassonne, 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!

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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Parc Beaumont
Rocher de la viergeBiarritz AquariumSainte-Eugénie Church of Biarritz
Chambre D'Amour PlaygroundGrotte de la Chambre d'AmourPlage de Bidart
Bayonne CathedralMusée du Vin et du Négoce de BordeauxBordeaux CathedralBordeaux Museum of Fine ArtsPorte Dijeaux
miroir d'eauplace de la BourseMonument aux Girondinsjardin publicParc de BourranChâteau Lascombes
Monolithic Church of Saint-EmilionParc MauresqueObservatoire Sainte-CécileDune of PilatLac de la Magdeleine

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques - Arrival day
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  • Parc Beaumont
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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.

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 delightful dinner at Le Henri IV, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Le Garage? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Au Fin Gourmet as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Pau.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Snug, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Winfield Café offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Pau. The Galway is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Raise a toast to the start of your 11-day road trip in France!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques
  • Biarritz
  • More

Drive 126 km, 1 hour 45 min

  • Rocher de la vierge
  • Biarritz Aquarium
  • Sainte-Eugénie Church of Biarritz
  • More

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 Biarritz. In the evening, you’ll end up in Biarritz, where you will stay for 2 nights.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders await you in Pau on today’s itinerary. First up is the locally renowned rock formation, Rocher De La Vierge. Afterward, continue to Biarritz Aquarium, an aquarium every traveler should visit.

As you explore Pau’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town. Next, make your way to Sainte-eugénie Church Of Biarritz. This up-and-coming church is an essential stop.

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

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

Savor the flavors at La Belloteka, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Hôtel Cosmopolitain Biarritz beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Le Maïtena. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Biarritz tonight.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Biarritz
  • More

Drive 29 km, 1 hour 8 min

  • Chambre D'Amour Playground
  • Grotte de la Chambre d'Amour
  • Plage de Bidart
  • More

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

A blend of fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots await you in Biarritz on today’s itinerary. First up is the often recommended playground, Chambre D'amour Playground. Afterward, continue to Grotte De La Chambre D'amour, a cave every traveler should visit.

As you explore Biarritz’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town. Next, make your way to Plage De Bidart. This increasingly popular beach is an essential stop.

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

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

Savor the flavors at California Kitchen Biarritz, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, LTB-La Table Basque beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Biarritz Pizza. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Biarritz tonight.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Biarritz
  • Bordeaux
  • More

Drive 208 km, 2 hours 57 min

  • Bayonne Cathedral
  • Musée du Vin et du Négoce de Bordeaux
  • Bordeaux Cathedral
  • Bordeaux Museum of Fine Arts
  • Porte Dijeaux
  • More

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Bayonne and Bordeaux. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bordeaux, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Bayonne Cathedral. This curiosity-inducing church is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Musée Du Vin Et Du Négoce De Bordeaux, one of the town’s best highlights.

Next, check out Bordeaux Cathedral, one of the most notable places to see in Biarritz. This church is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Bordeaux Museum Of Fine Arts. Wander around and soak in the visually striking atmosphere this museum offers. Then, head to Porte Dijeaux, a top-rated monument that adds another dimension to your day.

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 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.

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.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Café Brun, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Le Mushroom Café, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Whose Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for 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.

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Bordeaux
  • More

Drive 72 km, 2 hours 24 min

  • miroir d'eau
  • place de la Bourse
  • Monument aux Girondins
  • jardin public
  • Parc de Bourran
  • Château Lascombes
  • More

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bordeaux, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Bordeaux and Margaux-Cantenac. You still have 2 nights left in Bordeaux.

Bordeaux is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views! Start at Miroir D'eau, a captivating art installation that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Place De La Bourse, enchanting visitors with its enchanting appeal. Continue your exploration at Monument Aux Girondins. This monument is one of the city’s most underrated spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Bordeaux at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Jardin Public. After exploring the park, head to the worthwhile Parc De Bourran. Lastly, wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Château Lascombes, a place of enchanting interest in Bordeaux.

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

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 delightful dinner at L'Oiseau Bleu, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant Soléna? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Hôtel De Sèze as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bordeaux.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The Grizzly Pub is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, The Dog And Duck is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Bordeaux
  • More

Drive 235 km, 3 hours 44 min

  • Monolithic Church of Saint-Emilion
  • Parc Mauresque
  • Observatoire Sainte-Cécile
  • Dune of Pilat
  • Lac de la Magdeleine
  • More

Greet day 6 of your road trip in France with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Bordeaux for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Saint-Émilion, Arcachon, and Gujan-Mestras.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots in the charming village of Bordeaux. Your adventure starts at Monolithic Church Of Saint-emilion, an often recommended local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Parc Mauresque. This intriguing park is known for its historic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Bordeaux's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Observatoire Sainte-cécile. This romantic observation deck offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Dune Of Pilat is also worth visiting, along with Lac De La Magdeleine. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

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

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

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

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Casey's Pub, known for its inviting atmosphere. Le Bar À Vin is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Thecity provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Bordeaux
  • Toulouse
  • More

Drive 250 km, 2 hours 58 min

  • Jardin des Plantes
  • Grand Rond
  • jardin Royal
  • Saint Stephen's Cathredal
  • Musée des Augustins
  • Square Charles de Gaulle
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 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 3 nights.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Bordeaux, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Jardin Des Plantes, a frequently visited botanical garden in the city. Then, head to Grand Rond and soak in the ambiance of this eye-catching park.

There are many interesting places to see in Bordeaux, and when you are ready for more, go to Jardin Royal. This is one of the city’s most worthwhile standout spots of interest. After exploring the park, visit the frequently visited Saint Stephen's Cathedral. Not far away, you'll also find Musée Des Augustins. This museum is a noteworthy highlight in Bordeaux. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to Square Charles De Gaulle, a curiosity-inducing public square in the city.

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.

As you explore more of Toulouse, 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 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.

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

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

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Toulouse
  • More

Drive 3 km, 45 min

  • Couvent des Jacobins
  • Georges Bemberg’s Foundation — Hotel of Assézat
  • Pont-Neuf
  • pont Saint-Pierre de Toulouse
  • Place Saint-Pierre
  • Basilica of St. Sernin
  • More

On day 8 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Toulouse. You’ll stay in Toulouse for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Toulouse is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a monastery, a museum, a monument, a public square, a church and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the locally appreciated Couvent Des Jacobins and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Georges Bemberg’s Foundation — Hotel Of Assézat, a photogenic museum that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Pont-neuf, one of the city’s most increasingly popular spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the increasingly popular Pont Saint-pierre De Toulouse. When you're finished at the monument, Place Saint-pierre awaits your visit. This public square is a picture-perfect highlight on today's itinerary. Last up is a church - the well-known Basilica Of St. Sernin.

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 Toulouse. 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at La Faim des Haricots/TOULOUSE CENTRE VILLE, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Madame Bovary offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Au Pois Gourmand restaurant gastronomique is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Toulouse.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Pub O'clock, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. La Loupiote is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Café Populaire is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

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Day 9

Day 9

  • Toulouse
  • More

Drive 191 km, 2 hours 27 min

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

On day 9 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Toulouse, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. The first attraction of today is Basilique Saint Nazaire. This underrated church is a culturally significant place to see in Toulouse. Continue your discovery at Musée De L'ecole, a standout museum with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Toulouse, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Cité De Carcassonne. This astonishing castle offers a history-steeped encounter with Toulouse. Next, make your way to Château Comtal to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Toulouse.

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

As you explore more of Toulouse, 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.

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

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

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

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Day 10

Day 10

  • Toulouse
  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques
  • More

Drive 215 km, 2 hours 47 min

  • Basilica of St. Pius X
  • Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary
  • Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes
  • More

Dive into day 10 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Lourdes, 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.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Toulouse allows for both. Start by heading to Basilica Of St. Pius X. This underrated minor basilica provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Rosary, a culturally significant church, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Sanctuary Of Our Lady Of Lourdes, an underrated church.

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.

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.

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

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Day 11

Day 11

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

Day 11 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 up-and-coming 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, Quartier du Hédas. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to France. Browse through boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces to take home. When you need a break, visit a cafe and relax with a cup of coffee or tea.

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

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Maynats, another top spot with a mouthwatering 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!

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