12-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Pau traveling north to Angouleme, Blois, Paris, Angers, and Bordeaux

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Photo of a bridge over river Gave de Pau in Orthez and Pic du midi Ossau ,France.
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Experience the freedom of the open road on an unforgettable 12-day road trip in France! Embark on a self-drive tour that caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Pau, Angouleme, Amboise, Blois, Noisiel, Paris, Versailles, Angers, Les Herbiers, Bordeaux, Lormont, and Bizanos.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in France. You will spend 2 nights in Pau, 1 night in Angouleme, 1 night in Blois, 4 nights in Paris, 1 night in Angers, and 2 nights in Bordeaux. 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 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. Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Pau, Angouleme, Amboise, Blois, Noisiel, Paris, Versailles, Angers, Les Herbiers, Bordeaux, Lormont, and Bizanos, 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, accommodations, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Day1

Day 1

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques - Arrival day
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  • place Clémenceau
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Your road trip adventure in France begins as soon as you reach Pau and pick up your car. You’ll stay here for 1 night and explore what to see in Pau, 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 Place Clémenceau. Taking a stroll in the town center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

When you're ready for some downtime, make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Pau. Make yourself at home and unwind 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 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.

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 12-day road trip in France!

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Day2

Day 2

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques
  • Angoulême
  • More

Drive 331 km, 3 hours 41 min

  • Musée Bernadotte
  • Musée des Beaux-Arts de Pau
  • Parc Beaumont
  • More

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Pau. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Angouleme, where you'll spend 1 night.

No visit to Pau is complete without Musée Bernadotte. This underrated museum is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Musée Des Beaux-arts De Pau, 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 Parc Beaumont. This up-and-coming park is a traveler-favorite.

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

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Day3

Day 3

  • Angoulême
  • Blois
  • More

Drive 302 km, 4 hours 3 min

  • Château de Chenonceau
  • Château d'Amboise
  • Château du Clos Lucé
  • Domaine de Chaumont-sur-Loire
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Amboise. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Blois, where will spend 1 night.

Awaiting your discovery is the well-known Château De Chenonceau, a romantic castle in Angouleme. Next, go to Château D'amboise.

Domaine De Chaumont-sur-loire is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Blois. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the town.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Blois. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Don’t miss out on dining at Le Relais de la Tour, a top-rated dining destination in Blois. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Cote Loire Auberge Ligerienne, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

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

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Day4

Day 4

  • Blois
  • Paris
  • More

Drive 242 km, 3 hours 20 min

  • Château de Blois
  • Jacques-Gabriel Bridge
  • Château de Chambord
  • Parc de Noisiel
  • More

On day 4 of your road trip in France, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Blois and Noisiel are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Paris, where you will stay for 4 nights.

Check out the well-known castle, Château De Blois. Afterward, continue to Jacques-gabriel Bridge, a monument every traveler should visit. As you explore Blois’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town.

Next, make your way to Château De Chambord. This locally renowned castle is an essential stop. Following that, head to Parc De Noisiel, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Paris. Paris 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Paris, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Mumi, a top-rated dining spot in Paris. If you're in the mood for something new, try Beaurepaire Ambassade du Béarn - Restaurant Paris Terrasse, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at L'Imprévu Café. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Paris.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Café De Paris V stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Dirty Dick offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Little Red Door is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Head back to your accommodation in Paris and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in France.

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Day5

Day 5

  • Paris
  • More

Drive 32 km, 1 hour 40 min

  • Champ de Mars
  • Eiffel Tower
  • Arc de Triomphe
  • Sacré-Cœur
  • La Villette
  • More

Day 5 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Pau. You’ll stay in Paris for 3 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Check out the globally renowned park, Champ De Mars. Afterward, continue to Eiffel Tower, a monument every traveler should visit. As you explore Paris’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city.

Next, make your way to Arc De Triomphe. This iconic monument is an essential stop. Following that, head to Sacré-cœur, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by La Villette, an impressive park in the city.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in France. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Paris. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight'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 satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Paris this evening.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Prescription Cocktail Club, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Le Boucan. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Mamie Paris, another top-rated place in the area.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!

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Day6

Day 6

  • Paris
  • More

Drive 7 km, 1 hour 15 min

  • Louvre Museum
  • Musée d'Orsay
  • Tuileries Garden
  • place de la Concorde
  • Palais Garnier
  • More

On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Paris. You’ll stay in Paris for 2 nights.

Louvre Museum is must-visit museum and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Musée D'orsay, an astonishing museum, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Tuileries Garden, a detailed park, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Paris. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the spectacular Place De La Concorde. If you’re looking for more, Palais Garnier is also an interesting attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in France. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Harp Bar, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Le Bistro des Augustins? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Le Petit Châtelet as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Paris.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Sherry Butt is an excellent place to start. You could also check out The Highlander, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Le Sully. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

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Day7

Day 7

  • Paris
  • More

Drive 8 km, 57 min

  • Jardin des plantes
  • Jardin du Luxembourg
  • Panthéon
  • Notre-Dame de Paris
  • Sainte Chapelle
  • More

Day 7 of your road trip across France promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in Paris. You have 1 night left in Paris. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Whatever your travel style is, Jardin Des Plantes is an essential stop in Paris. This captivating botanical garden provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Jardin Du Luxembourg, a detailed park, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Panthéon, a notable monument. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the locally renowned Notre-dame De Paris. Round off your day at Sainte Chapelle, another gem in Paris with visually striking features to discover.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in France. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Paris's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Granite, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurant Guy Savoy is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Saint James Paris. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Paris tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Café Klein Holland, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Tiger offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, The 46 Bar 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.

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Day8

Day 8

  • Paris
  • Angers
  • More

Drive 322 km, 3 hours 51 min

  • Hall of Mirrors
  • Palace of Versailles
  • Gardens of Versailles
  • Château d'Angers
  • More

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

Hall Of Mirrors makes a great addition to your morning plans. This up-and-coming palace is a history-steeped place to see in Paris. Continue your discovery at Palace Of Versailles, a majestic palace with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Paris, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Gardens Of Versailles. This interesting botanical garden offers an UNESCO world heritage-designated encounter with Paris. Next, make your way to Château D'angers 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 Paris.

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

Angers is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Angers.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Wallaby's Australian Café, a popular restaurant in Angers. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Angers at La Cour - Angers, 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 Brasserie de la Gare. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Angers tonight.

Keep the evening going at Flo Cocktail, Beer, Spirits & Music, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Le Snooker, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Velenjak, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

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Day9

Day 9

  • Angers
  • Bordeaux
  • More

Drive 413 km, 4 hours 23 min

  • Municipal Park Landreau
  • Gare des Herbiers
  • Château d'Ardelay
  • More

Your itinerary for day 9 of your road trip in France includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Les Herbiers. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bordeaux, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Whatever your travel style is, Municipal Park Landreau is an essential stop in Angers. This intriguing park provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Château D'ardelay, a beloved castle.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bordeaux. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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

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.

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

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in France.

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Day10

Day 10

  • Bordeaux
  • More

Drive 11 km, 1 hour 2 min

  • Bordeaux Cathedral
  • Monument aux Girondins
  • jardin public
  • Cité du Vin
  • More

On day 10 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bordeaux, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Bordeaux and Lormont.

Experience Bordeaux Cathedral, a captivating church in the city. Then, head to Monument Aux Girondins and soak in the ambiance of this culturally significant monument.

There are many interesting places to see in Bordeaux, and when you are ready for more, go to Jardin Public. This is one of the city’s most popular serene spots of interest. After exploring the park, visit the captivating La Cité Du Vin.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at L'Oiseau Bleu, a top-rated dining destination in Bordeaux. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Soléna, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hôtel De Sèze. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bordeaux this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, The Grizzly Pub is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. The Dog And Duck is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

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Day11

Day 11

  • Bordeaux
  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques
  • More

Drive 219 km, 2 hours 42 min

  • place du Parlement
  • place de la Bourse
  • miroir d'eau
  • Porte de Bourgogne
  • The big bell of Bordeaux
  • More

Dive into day 11 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Bordeaux. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Pau, where you'll spend 1 night.

Catch Place Du Parlement before the crowds roll in. This history-steeped public square is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the romantic features of Place De La Bourse, a must-visit public square in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Miroir D'eau, a notable art installation. For a change of scene, check out Porte De Bourgogne, known for its picture-perfect features. We also recommend visiting The Big Bell Of Bordeaux. This historical landmark is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Pau's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Resto Dit Vin, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurant L' Ardoise is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Little Monkey Bar. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Pau tonight.

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

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Day12

Day 12

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques - Departure day
  • More
  • Kofu Japanese Garden
  • More

Day 12 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 Kofu Japanese Garden. This intriguing botanical garden is a hotspot among locals.

Take advantage of your accommodation's proximity to Pau’s shopping district for some last-minute bargain hunting. Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at m Restaurant, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Maynats is another top choice with a popular 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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Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
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Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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