5-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Pau to Toulouse
Description
Included
Description
Explore the best of France on a 5-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Pau, Lourdes, Tarbes, Carcassonne, Toulouse, and Auch. This road trip itinerary in France seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in France takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. 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 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 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, 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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- 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 in Pau for 2 nights and explore the best things to see and do, 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.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Pau. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime 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 lovely dining experience at Le Henri IV, a popular restaurant in Pau. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Pau at Le Garage, 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 Au Fin Gourmet. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Pau tonight.
Continue your lively evening at Snug, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Winfield Café is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, The Galway ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in France!
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
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On day 2 of your road trip in France, you’ll start and end your day in Pau, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the town. Since you will return to Pau for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Lourdes and Tarbes to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots in Pau. Begin your sightseeing with Sanctuary Of Our Lady Of Lourdes. This locally appreciated church is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Rosary, another must-visit attraction that enhances the town’s allure.
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 Basilica Of St. Pius X. This often recommended minor basilica is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Château Fort Musée Pyrénéen, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Conclude your day at Parc Bel-air and uncover why it's recognized as one of the town's most beloved attractions.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Pau and your accommodation.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Pau's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Resto Dit Vin, a top-rated dining destination in Pau. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant L' Ardoise, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Little Monkey Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Pau this evening.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!
Day 3
- Pyrénées-Atlantiques
- Toulouse
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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
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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. In the evening, you’ll end up in Toulouse, where you will stay for 1 night.
Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views in Pau. Begin your sightseeing with Château Comtal. This often recommended castle is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Porte Narbonnaise, another must-visit attraction that enhances the town’s allure.
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 Cité De Carcassonne. This widely recognized castle is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Basilique Saint Nazaire, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Conclude your day at Église Saint-vincent De Carcassonne and uncover why it's recognized as one of the town's most up-and-coming attractions.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Toulouse, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Toulouse's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Savor the flavors at Restaurant Le May, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, L*Agence beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Le Perche Pinte. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining 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.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!
Day 4
- Toulouse
- Pyrénées-Atlantiques
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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
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Toulouse and Auch. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Pau, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Toulouse, including a public square, a church, a monument, a museum, a botanical garden and much more! Start your day at Place Saint-pierre. This romantic public square is an up-and-coming place to see in Toulouse. Then, wander over to Basilica Of St. Sernin. If breathtaking sites excite you, this church will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Pont-neuf. This romantic monument is a favorite among visitors.
Toulouse offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Muséum De Toulouse is a frequently visited spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the museum, don’t forget to check out the mesmerizing Jardin Des Plantes. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this beloved botanical garden in Toulouse.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Pau. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Pau's best restaurants.
Have a fantastic dining experience at m Restaurant, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Maynats offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Le Café du Passage is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Pau.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in France.
Day 5
- Pyrénées-Atlantiques - Departure day
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- place Clémenceau
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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, we recommend visiting Place Clémenceau, a heritage-rich public square before you head out.
Maximize your last day in France and go on a shopping spree in Pau’s shopping center, the lively Les Halles de Pau. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in France.
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 L'Imparfait, 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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