4-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Pau traveling east to Carcassonne
Description
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 4-day road trip through France. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
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 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 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 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, 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!
Itinerary summary
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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 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 taking a stroll in the town center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Pau. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in France. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
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 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 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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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 Lourdes and Gez. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Carcassonne, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Pau, including a cave system, a church, and a zoo. Start your adventure at Grottes De Bétharram. This often recommended cave system is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Rosary located in Pau for an enchanting atmosphere.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Animal Park Of The Pyrenees. Its idyllic features will captivate you.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Carcassonne. Carcassonne 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 Carcassonne's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, La Rapière is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Le Domaine d'Auriac. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice 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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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 and Toulouse. In the evening, you’ll end up in Pau, where you will stay for 1 night.
Begin your adventure at Château Comtal. This is a locally appreciated castle you should not miss. Another must-see is Cité De Carcassonne, a spectacular castle in Carcassonne.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Basilica Of St. Sernin. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Jardin Japonais Pierre Baudis, another of the town’s notable attractions.
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.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Pau. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Resto Dit Vin, a top-rated dining spot in Pau. If you're in the mood for something new, try Restaurant L' Ardoise, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Little Monkey Bar. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Pau.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure 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.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones. Discover boutiques offering an array of stylish fashion choices. Take a break with a cup of coffee or tea while savoring the local vibe in a coffee shop.
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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