11-Day France Road Trip from Pau traveling east to Angouleme, Blois, Paris, Auxerre, Lyon, and Narbonne

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 place Clémenceau or 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 in Pau. 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 meal at Le Henri IV, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Le Garage is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Resto Dit Vin. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Pau tonight.

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 11-day road trip in France!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Pau, and Saint-Émilion. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Angouleme, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Musée Bernadotte, a remarkable museum where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4 out of 5 stars in 104 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Parc Beaumont. This green space has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,112 travelers.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Saint-Émilion, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Pau to Saint-Émilion may take around 2 hours 25 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Saint-Émilion, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Kick off the day at Monolithic Church of Saint-Emilion, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This church is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,946 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Angouleme. Angouleme offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

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 Chenonceaux, Amboise, Chambord, and Blois. In the evening, you’ll end up in Blois, where you will stay for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Chenonceaux. This car ride takes around 2 hours 41 min.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Château de Chenonceau. Previous visitors have rated this château an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 33,253 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Chenonceaux, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Amboise may take around 23 min. Upon your arrival in Amboise, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Château d'Amboise. This château is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 21,016 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Blois, 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 Blois's best restaurants.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Cote Loire Auberge Ligerienne, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight.

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

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Versailles, and Paris, 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 Paris. You’ll stay here for 3 nights.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Versailles. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 52 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Gardens of Versailles, a remarkable french formal garden where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 13,133 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Palace of Versailles. This château has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 119,665 travelers. Given the site's popularity, it’s easy to understand why more than 4,741,758 people visit it every year.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Paris. This drive usually takes around 35 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at place de la Concorde, a remarkable square where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 54,229 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Tuileries Garden. This garden has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 92,172 travelers.

Notre-Dame de Paris is another must-visit attraction. This renowned catholic cathedral offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 45,788 travelers and attracting 12,000,000 annual visitors, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Paris, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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

Dine in style at Mumi, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Beaurepaire Ambassade du Béarn - Restaurant Paris Terrasse boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out L'Imprévu Café. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Paris.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Café de Paris V, known for its lively atmosphere. Dirty Dick is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Little Red Door offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

Day 5 of your road trip across France promises a magnificent time exploring Paris. You have 2 nights left in Paris. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

When you're ready to see some sights, Champ de Mars is a great place to start. This urban park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 172,488 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Eiffel Tower. This lattice tower has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 322,389 travelers. Every year, 6,207,303 travelers come to experience this site to make the most of their time in Paris.

We also recommend a stop at Arc de Triomphe. This site gets more than 2,743,823 visitors annually. The triumphal arch has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 193,235 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Sacré-Cœur. This church building is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 118,527 reviews. As a top-rated attraction, it's no surprise that 11,000,000 people visit Sacré-Cœur every year.

La Villette is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this commune of france, rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 56,497 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

You can learn more about Paris today by going on a tour. Paris offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites below.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Le Marais Restaurant Paris, a highly-rated dining destination in Paris. If you're eager to try something different, consider Le Sens Unique, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Caveau de l'isle. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Paris this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Prescription Cocktail Club, known for its inviting atmosphere. Le Boucan is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Mamie Paris provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

Day 6 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Paris for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Journey into the unknown at Jardin du Luxembourg, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable urban park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 94,043 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Musée d'Orsay is a recommended place to visit. This art museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 71,115 reviews. Based on recent data, the attraction hosts 3,651,616 visitors per year.

Another must-see attraction in Paris is Louvre Museum. This spectacular art museum gets over 2,825,000 visitors every year. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 260,788 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Paris offers an experience you will remember.

Centre Georges Pompidou is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Paris. This art museum promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.4 out of 5 stars in 55,213 reviews. Each year, approximately 3,273,867 people travel to visit Centre Georges Pompidou.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in France that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Paris has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. Scroll down and select tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

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

Dine in style at The Harp Bar, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Le Bistro des Augustins boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Le Petit Châtelet. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Paris.

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

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Paris, Bussy-Saint-Georges, and Serris. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Auxerre. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Jardin des plantes. Previous visitors have rated this botanical garden an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 40,461 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Bussy-Saint-Georges. This car ride takes around 32 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Château de Ferrières. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 934 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Auxerre. Auxerre offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Caluire-et-Cuire, and Lyon. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Lyon, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Auxerre, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Caluire-et-Cuire may take around 2 hours 56 min. Upon your arrival in Caluire-et-Cuire, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to parc de la Tête d'Or. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 50,621 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Caluire-et-Cuire, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Lyon. This drive usually takes around 24 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Previous visitors have rated this minor basilica an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 25,765 reviews.

Lyon Cathedral is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 11,228 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Place Bellecour. This square is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 20,560 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Lyon, 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 Lyon, 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 Café du Rhône, a top-rated dining spot in Lyon. If you're in the mood for something new, try Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Vieille Canaille. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Lyon.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, L' Antiquaire offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Black Forest Society is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. The James Joyce Pub is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 9 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Avignon, and Nimes. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Narbonne, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Avignon and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 20 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Avignon beckons with new experiences!

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Palais des Papes. This much-appreciated palace is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 36,931 reviews. Each year, 616,210 people visit this site to admire its unique features.

Next up is Pont Saint-Benezet (Le Pont d'Avignon). This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 17,658 visitors.

Nimes’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Avignon behind. This drive usually takes around 47 min. Nimes welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Journey into the unknown at Jardin de La Fontaine, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 15,878 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Narbonne, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the town.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Les Halles de Narbonne, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner.

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

On day 10 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 Carcassonne. In the evening, you’ll end up in Pau, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Narbonne, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Carcassonne. Your travel time is around 47 min.

Make Basilique Saint Nazaire your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this church an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,146 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Cité de Carcassonne. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 76,968 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this fortress every year.

Château et Remparts de la Cité de Carcassonne is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,201 visitors.

When you’re finished at Château et Remparts de la Cité de Carcassonne, the perfect next stop is Château Comtal. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,823 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Pau. Pau offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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.

Make sure to book a table at Le Café du Passage, a popular restaurant in Pau. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Pau at Ô PETIT PAÙ, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is L'Imparfait. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Pau tonight.

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

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.

Maximize your last day in France and go on a shopping spree in Pau’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey 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.

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!