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Road trips in France

4-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Pau traveling east to Carcassonne

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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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Explore the best of France on a remarkable 4-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Pau, Lourdes, Gez, Carcassonne, and Toulouse.

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 and 1 night in Carcassonne. 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. Cité De Carcassonne and Jardin Japonais Pierre Baudis are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Basilica Of St. Sernin, learn more about the unique Château Comtal, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Animal Park Of The Pyrenees.

As you hit the open road and drive through Pau, Lourdes, Gez, Carcassonne, and Toulouse, 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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Day 1

Pyrénées-Atlantiques - Arrival day
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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 discovering what to see in Pau 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 taking a stroll in the town center. 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 highly-rated dining destination in Pau. If you're eager to try something different, consider Le Garage, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Au Fin Gourmet. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Pau this evening.

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

Raise a toast to the start of your 4-day road trip in France!

Day 2

Pyrénées-Atlantiques
Carcassonne
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Drive 329 km, 4 hours 3 min

Grottes de Bétharram
Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary
Animal Park of the Pyrenees
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Your itinerary for day 2 of your road trip in France includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Lourdes and Gez. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Carcassonne, where you'll spend 1 night.

Experience Grottes De Bétharram, an increasingly popular cave system in the city. Then, head to Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Rosary and soak in the ambiance of this monumental church.

There are many interesting places to see in Pau, and when you are ready for more, go to Animal Park Of The Pyrenees. This is one of the city’s most intriguing visually striking spots of interest.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a popular restaurant in Carcassonne. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Carcassonne at La Rapière, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Le Domaine d'Auriac. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Carcassonne tonight.

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

Day 3

Carcassonne
Pyrénées-Atlantiques
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Drive 298 km, 3 hours 36 min

Château comtal de Carcassonne
Cité de Carcassonne
Basilica of St. Sernin
Jardin Japonais Pierre Baudis
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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 2 places, which are Carcassonne and Toulouse. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Pau, where will spend 1 night.

Check out the frequently visited castle, Château Comtal. Afterward, continue to Cité De Carcassonne, a castle every traveler should visit. As you explore Carcassonne’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town.

Next, make your way to Basilica Of St. Sernin. This popular church is an essential stop. Following that, head to Jardin Japonais Pierre Baudis, 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 Pau. Pau 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 Pau, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!

Day 4

Pyrénées-Atlantiques - Departure day
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Day 4 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.

For a shopping spree in Pau, we recommend the lively Les Halles de Pau. Here, you'll find a range of shops you can browse for some souvenir shopping.

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 eager to try something different, consider Maynats, another top spot with a tantalizing 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!

How it works

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Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.

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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.

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.

We guarantee

Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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