5-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Pau to Carcassonne and Bordeaux and surrounding area

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Lourdes and Gez. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Carcassonne, where you’ll be staying 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 locally appreciated 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 another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Animal Park Of The Pyrenees. Its visually striking 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.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Carcassonne. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Dine in style at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, La Rapière boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Le Domaine d'Auriac. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Carcassonne.

Head back to your accommodation in Carcassonne and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Carcassonne and Toulouse. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bordeaux, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Carcassonne today. One of the most increasingly popular attractions included on the itinerary is Château Comtal. This history-steeped castle will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Cité De Carcassonne and learn what makes this enchanting castle unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the frequently visited Jardin Des Plantes. After exploring the botanical garden, head to Jardin Japonais Pierre Baudis. This interesting park is a highlight in Carcassonne.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bordeaux. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Bordeaux's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Make sure to reserve a table at Le Cent 33, an iconic dining spot in Bordeaux. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of L'Originel, a popular restaurant in Bordeaux. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Le Clemenceau, a hidden gem nestled in Bordeaux. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Café Brun, known for its inviting atmosphere. Le Mushroom Café is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Whose Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 4 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 Bordeaux and Biarritz. In the evening, you’ll end up in Pau, where you will stay for 1 night.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in the charming city of Bordeaux. Your adventure starts at Jardin Public, a popular local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Monument Aux Girondins. This curiosity-inducing monument is known for its serene appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Bordeaux's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Place De La Bourse. This visually striking public square offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Miroir D'eau is also worth visiting, along with Rocher De La Vierge. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Resto Dit Vin, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant L' Ardoise? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Little Monkey Bar as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Pau.

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