5-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Pau traveling east to Carcassonne

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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 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 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 Château Comtal, learn more about the unique Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Rosary, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Couvent Des Jacobins.

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.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Le Henri IV, a top-rated dining destination in Pau. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Le Garage, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Au Fin Gourmet. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Pau this evening.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Snug, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Winfield Café. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at The Galway, another top-rated place in the area.

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 in France, you’ll start and end your day in Pau, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the town. Since you still have 1 night to spend in Pau, there’s no need to rush. Experience Lourdes and Tarbes to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Enjoy all that Sanctuary Of Our Lady Of Lourdes has to offer. This is a curiosity-inducing church you should not miss. Another must-see is Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Rosary, a frequently visited church in Pau.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Basilica Of St. Pius X. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Château Fort Musée Pyrénéen, another of the town’s curiosity-inducing attractions. If time allows, add Massey Garden to your itinerary. This increasingly popular botanical garden offers the perfect finishing touch to your day in Pau.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Pau. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Resto Dit Vin, 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 Restaurant L' Ardoise, 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 Little Monkey Bar, a hidden gem nestled in Pau. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques
  • Carcassonne
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Drive 289 km, 3 hours 16 min

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Carcassonne. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Carcassonne, where will spend 1 night.

Enjoy all that Château Comtal has to offer. This is an intriguing castle you should not miss. Another must-see is Carcassonne Cathedral, a locally appreciated catholic cathedral in Pau.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Basilique Saint Nazaire. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Cité De Carcassonne, another of the town’s astonishing attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Porte Narbonnaise, an UNESCO world heritage-listed place of interest in the town.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Carcassonne. Check in and relax before you head out to tour 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 Carcassonne, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Don’t miss out on dining at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a top-rated dining destination in Carcassonne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Rapière, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Domaine d'Auriac. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Carcassonne this evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Carcassonne
  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques
  • More

Drive 276 km, 4 hours 36 min

  • Muséum de Toulouse
  • Pont-Neuf
  • Couvent des Jacobins
  • Basilica of St. Sernin
  • Park Couloumé
  • More

On day 4 of your road trip in France, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Toulouse and Auch are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Pau, where you will stay for 1 night.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the curiosity-inducing Muséum De Toulouse and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Pont-neuf, a romantic monument that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Couvent Des Jacobins, one of the city’s most often recommended spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the locally renowned Basilica Of St. Sernin. When you're finished at the church, Park Couloumé awaits your visit. This park is an awe-inspiring highlight on today's itinerary.

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.

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.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 5

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, an eye-catching public square before you head out.

Take some time to indulge in shopping at Pau’s popular marketplace, Quartier du Hédas. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. Browse boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces. Wrap up your shopping with a drink and some pastries at a cozy cafe.

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 for something new, try L'Imparfait, another premier location with a delectable 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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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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