13-Day France Road Trip from Pau traveling north to Perigueux, Narbonne, Lyon, Beaune, Paris, Blois, Tours, and Bordeaux

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.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Pau. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in France. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the town.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining 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 Resto Dit Vin. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Pau this evening.

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

Raise a toast to the start of your 13-day road trip in France!

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

Drop by the renowned Funiculaire de Pau. This popular funicular has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,020 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Musée des Beaux-Arts de Pau. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 554 visitors, this art museum deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Parc Beaumont. This green space has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 2,112 reviews.

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

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day 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 Carcassonne. In the evening, you’ll end up in Narbonne, where you will stay for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Carcassonne. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 45 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready to see some sights, Château Comtal is a great place to start. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 8,823 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Château et Remparts de la Cité de Carcassonne. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,201 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Cité de Carcassonne. The fortress has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 76,968 visitors.

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

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

Savor the flavors at Les Halles de Narbonne, a top pick for dinner tonight.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 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 Avignon. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lyon. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Set your GPS to Nimes and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 34 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Nimes beckons with new experiences!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Jardin de La Fontaine. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Nimes, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 15,878 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Nimes, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Avignon. This drive usually takes around 47 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Take the opportunity to see Jardin des doms. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,201 visitors.

Pont Saint-Benezet (Le Pont d'Avignon) is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 17,658 travelers.

Avignon is also the home of Palais des Papes. This palace gets more than 616,210 visitors on an annual basis. Around 36,931 people have rated this palace an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Lyon.

Dine in style at Café du Rhône, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Vieille Canaille. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Lyon.

Keep the evening going at L' Antiquaire, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Black Forest Society, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is The James Joyce Pub, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Lyon and Caluire-et-Cuire, 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 Beaune. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Journey into the unknown at Musée Miniature et Cinéma, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,540 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Lyon Cathedral is a recommended place to visit. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 11,228 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Lyon is Place Bellecour. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 20,560 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Lyon offers an experience you will remember.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Beaune. This car ride takes around 1 hour 40 min.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like parc de la Tête d'Or. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 50,621 visitors.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Le Bistrot du Coin, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Le Bout du Monde offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Rest O Bar. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Beaune.

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

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Paris. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Paris, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Beaune and set your GPS to Paris. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 3 hours 4 min. Upon reaching Paris, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Jardin du Luxembourg, a remarkable urban park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 94,043 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Panthéon. This mausoleum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 43,649 travelers.

Jardin des plantes is another must-visit attraction. This renowned botanical garden offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 40,461 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Notre-Dame de Paris. This well-loved catholic cathedral boasts a 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 45,788 reviews. In a single year, approximately 12,000,000 visitors add this sightseeing spot to their travel itineraries.

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

As you explore more of Paris, 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 book a table at L'Imprévu Café, a popular restaurant in Paris. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Paris at Le Petit Châtelet, 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 Restaurant Guy Savoy. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Paris tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Café de Paris V after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Dirty Dick for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Little Red Door is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

On day 7 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Paris. You’ll stay in Paris for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Centre Georges Pompidou. This extraordinary art museum has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 55,213 visitors. Each year, around 3,273,867 people visit this remarkable site to admire its features and learn more about it.

Next, make your way to Louvre Museum. This art museum welcomes around 2,825,000 visitors yearly and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 260,788 reviews.

While in Paris, we also recommend a visit to Eiffel Tower. Hosting around 6,207,303 visitors every year, Eiffel Tower is one of the best places to visit. This lattice tower has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 322,389 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Champ de Mars. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 172,488 travelers, this urban park is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Paris.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Paris.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Saint James Paris, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Solera Paris : Bar à Cocktail offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, To Restaurant Paris is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Paris.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Prescription Cocktail Club. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Sherry Butt offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook The Highlander, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Day 8 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Paris has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Paris by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Kick off the day at La Villette, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This commune of france is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 56,497 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Sacré-Cœur. Sacré-Cœur is a church building with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 118,527 reviews. Attracting more than 11,000,000 yearly visitors, this place of interest is an attraction you don’t want to miss out on.

Palais Garnier is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This opera house is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 34,053 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Tuileries Garden. This garden is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 92,172 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Musée d'Orsay, a famous art museum in Paris. This attraction welcomes 3,651,616 visitors annually and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 71,115 travelers.

To do something one-of-a-kind on this day of your trip, you can join a tour. You can discover all of the most fun and eye-opening experiences in your destination below and secure your spot here.

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 Alliance, a top-rated dining destination in Paris. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Bombardier, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Bistrot Du Perigord. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Paris this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Tiger, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bisou. Is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Le Requin Chagrin also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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 Paris and Versailles. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Blois, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to place de la Concorde. This square is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 54,229 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Pont Alexandre III. This deck arch bridge has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 27,899 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Arc de Triomphe. This triumphal arch has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 193,235 visitors. Up to 2,743,823 people visit this place of interest annually.

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 35 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Palace of Versailles. Over 4,741,758 travelers visit this attraction every year. Previous visitors have rated this château an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 119,665 reviews.

Gardens of Versailles is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This french formal garden is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 13,133 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.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Cote Loire Auberge Ligerienne, a top-rated dining destination in Blois.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day 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 Blois, Chambord, Chenonceaux, and Amboise. In the evening, you’ll end up in Tours, where you will stay for 1 night.

Make Château de Blois your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this château an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 15,926 reviews.

Chambord’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Blois behind. This drive usually takes around 26 min. Chambord welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Château de Chambord. This château is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 43,219 visitors.

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

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

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at TIA Gourmet, an iconic dining spot in Tours. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Au Fût et à mesure, a popular restaurant in Tours. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Café Bistrot Restaurant Le Vieux Mûrier, a hidden gem nestled in Tours. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Cave à Vins et à Bières Vins sur 20, Bar et soirées à thème, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out PIRAAT CAFE TOURS, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, L'Alexandra provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 11 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Tours, 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.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Tours Cathedral. This extraordinary catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,212 visitors.

After soaking in Tours’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Lormont. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 3 hours 13 min. When you arrive in Lormont, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make La Cité du Vin one of your first sightseeing stops in Lormont. Rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 21,487 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

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

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

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at L'Oiseau Bleu, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurant Le Plana is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Le Confidentiel. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bordeaux tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Café Brun, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Le Bar à Vin offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, La Comtesse provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Dive into day 12 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Bordeaux, 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.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Bordeaux Cathedral. This extraordinary catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 10,591 visitors.

Next, make your way to Porte Cailhau. This top attraction is a city gate with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,609 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to miroir d'eau. This reflecting pool is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 14,462 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit place de la Bourse. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 16,251 travelers.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Pau, 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 Pau.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Le Café du Passage, a top-rated dining destination in Pau. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Ô PETIT PAÙ, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at L'Imparfait. With a reputation for consistently satisfied 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!

Day 13 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.

On your last day in France, take time to indulge in shopping at Pau’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, the town’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of France. Each store here is brimming with unique finds. These souvenirs will help you treasure your memories of France forever.

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!