5-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Pau to Toulouse

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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 5-day road trip in France! Embark on a self-drive tour that caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Pau, Lourdes, Tarbes, Carcassonne, Toulouse, and Auch.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in France. You will spend 3 nights in Pau and 1 night in Toulouse. 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 Basilica Of St. Sernin are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Jardin Des Plantes, learn more about the unique Château Comtal, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Rosary.

As you hit the open road and drive through Pau, Lourdes, Tarbes, Carcassonne, Toulouse, and Auch, 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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Pick-up: 10:00
Drop-off: 10:00

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques - Arrival day
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  • Parc Beaumont
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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 2 nights 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 Parc Beaumont, or just 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.

Savor the flavors at Le Henri IV, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Le Garage beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Au Fin Gourmet. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Pau tonight.

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

Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in France!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques
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Drive 112 km, 2 hours 24 min

  • Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes
  • Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary
  • Basilica of St. Pius X
  • Château Fort Musée Pyrénéen
  • Parc Bel-Air
  • Massey Garden
  • More

On day 2 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Lourdes and Tarbes. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Pau, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

One of the most frequently visited attractions included on the itinerary is Sanctuary Of Our Lady Of Lourdes. This picture-perfect church will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Rosary and learn what makes this respected church unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the underrated Basilica Of St. Pius X. After exploring the minor basilica, head to Château Fort Musée Pyrénéen. This locally appreciated museum is a highlight in Pau. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the underrated Massey Garden. Enjoy exploring this incredible botanical garden at your own pace.

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

Pau 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 Pau.

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.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques
  • Toulouse
  • More

Drive 378 km, 4 hours 20 min

  • Château comtal de Carcassonne
  • Porte Narbonnaise
  • Cité de Carcassonne
  • Church of Saints Nazaire and Celse
  • Église Saint-Vincent de Carcassonne
  • More

Your itinerary for day 3 of your road trip in France includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Carcassonne. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Toulouse, where you'll spend 1 night.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the underrated Château Comtal and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Porte Narbonnaise, a picture-perfect monument that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Cité De Carcassonne, one of the town’s most spectacular spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the intriguing Basilique Saint Nazaire. When you're finished at the church, Église Saint-vincent De Carcassonne awaits your visit. This church is a culturally significant highlight on today's itinerary.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Toulouse. Toulouse offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Toulouse 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 Toulouse.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurant Le May, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, L*Agence is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Le Perche Pinte. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Toulouse tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Moloko. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, The Botanist Pub offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Melting Pot Pub, another top-rated bar 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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Day 4

Day 4

  • Toulouse
  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques
  • More

Drive 197 km, 4 hours 13 min

  • Place Saint-Pierre
  • Basilica of St. Sernin
  • Pont-Neuf
  • Muséum de Toulouse
  • Jardin des Plantes
  • Cathédrale Sainte-Marie
  • More

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 places, which are Toulouse and Auch. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Pau, where will spend 1 night.

Place Saint-pierre brings Toulouse's character to life. This picture-perfect public square is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Basilica Of St. Sernin, another picture-perfect attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Pont-neuf, one of the city’s most up-and-coming attractions, known for its history-steeped features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Muséum De Toulouse. This respected museum is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Jardin Des Plantes, an increasingly popular botanical garden, and take a stroll around the area. If you want to extend your self-guided sightseeing tour, go check out Cathédrale Sainte-marie before you head back to your hotel.

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 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at m Restaurant, an iconic dining spot in Pau. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Maynats, a popular restaurant in Pau. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Le Café du Passage, a hidden gem nestled in Pau. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques - Departure day
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  • place Clémenceau
  • More

Day 5 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 Place Clémenceau. This intriguing public square is a hotspot among locals.

For a last-minute shopping spree in Pau, Les Halles de Pau is nearby. Enjoy a variety of retail stores, dining options, and essential services in one convenient location.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Ô PETIT PAÙ, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? L'Imparfait offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Détours.

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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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.

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

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