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.

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
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Day1

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. Taking a stroll in the town center is a great alternative. 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 central location for easy access to key areas in the town.

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 Le Henri IV, 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 Le Garage, 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 Au Fin Gourmet, a hidden gem nestled in Pau. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Snug stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Winfield Café offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. The Galway is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

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Day2

Day 2

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques
  • Lourdes
  • Tarbes
  • More

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 start and end your day in Pau, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate town, including Lourdes and Tarbes.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Pau and set your GPS to Lourdes. 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 47 min. Upon reaching Lourdes, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Spend your afternoon discovering Sanctuary Of Our Lady Of Lourdes, an up-and-coming church known for its majestic features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Rosary, a frequently visited church.

Make sure to also explore Château Fort Musée Pyrénéen, an intriguing museum.

When you’ve had your share of Lourdes, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Tarbes. Your travel time is around 25 min.

Parc Bel-air is an intriguing park we recommend visiting today.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Pau.

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 delicious meal at Resto Dit Vin, a highly-rated dining destination in Pau. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurant L' Ardoise, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Little Monkey Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Pau this evening.

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

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Day3

Day 3

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques
  • Carcassonne
  • 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

On day 3 of your road trip in France, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Carcassonne are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Toulouse, where you will stay for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Carcassonne. This car ride takes around 2 hours 49 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Château Comtal, an up-and-coming castle that everyone visiting Carcassonne should see. Next, head to Porte Narbonnaise. This breathtaking monument is one of the most locally appreciated attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Cité De Carcassonne, an enchanting castle popular among locals as well as travelers. Basilique Saint Nazaire is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this up-and-coming church before you continue your journey. Lastly, visit Église Saint-vincent De Carcassonne, a photogenic church and a top attraction in the town.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Toulouse's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurant Le May, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, L*Agence offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Le Perche Pinte is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Toulouse.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Moloko stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, The Botanist Pub offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Melting Pot Pub is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

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Day4

Day 4

  • Toulouse
  • Auch
  • 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.

Let Place Saint-pierre set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this romantic public square before continuing your journey. Basilica Of St. Sernin is your next stop. This notable church is one of the best-rated sights in Toulouse.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Pont-neuf. This awe-inspiring monument is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Muséum De Toulouse and Jardin Des Plantes.

Auch’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Toulouse behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 22 min. Auch welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Cathédrale Sainte-marie and explore the stunning features.

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 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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at m Restaurant, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Maynats? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Le Café du Passage as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Pau.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

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Day5

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 frequently visited public square is a hotspot among locals.

Take some time to indulge in shopping at Pau’s popular marketplace, Les Halles de Pau. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

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 L'Imparfait, 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!

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How it works

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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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