5-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Pau traveling north to Bordeaux and Toulouse
Description
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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, Duras, Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux, Lormont, Toulouse, Blagnac, and Bizanos. 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 2 nights in Pau, 1 night in Bordeaux, 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. La Cité Du Vin and Place De La Bourse are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Miroir D'eau, learn more about the unique Jardin Public, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Basilica Of St. Sernin.
As you hit the open road and drive through Pau, Duras, Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux, Lormont, Toulouse, Blagnac, and Bizanos, 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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- place Clémenceau
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Welcome to Pau, the perfect starting point for your road trip in France! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Pau's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
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 Place Clémenceau or 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.
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.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Snug, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Winfield Café offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Pau. The Galway is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in France!
Day 2
- Pyrénées-Atlantiques
- Duras
- Saint-Émilion
- Bordeaux
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Drive 304 km, 3 hours 56 min
- Funicular
- Parc Beaumont
- Castle of the Dukes of Duras
- Monolithic Church of Saint-Emilion
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On day 2 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 Pau, Duras, and Saint-Émilion. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bordeaux, where you will stay for 1 night.
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots in Pau. Begin your sightseeing with Funiculaire De Pau. This frequently visited tramway is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Parc Beaumont, another must-visit attraction that enhances the town’s allure.
When you’ve had your share of Duras, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Saint-Émilion. Your travel time is around 45 min.
Monolithic Church Of Saint-emilion is a locally appreciated church we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its breathtaking features before continuing your self-guided tour.
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.
As you explore more of Bordeaux, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Le Cent 33, a highly-rated dining destination in Bordeaux. If you're eager to try something different, consider L'Originel, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Clemenceau. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bordeaux this evening.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Café Brun, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Le Mushroom Café. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Whose Bar, another top-rated place in the area.
Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 3
- Bordeaux
- Lormont
- Toulouse
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Drive 257 km, 3 hours 11 min
- Monument aux Girondins
- jardin public
- Cité du Vin
- place de la Bourse
- miroir d'eau
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Bordeaux and Lormont, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Toulouse. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Start at the frequently visited Monument Aux Girondins, a picture-perfect monument in Bordeaux. Next, go to Jardin Public.
After visiting Monument Aux Girondins and Jardin Public, take time to explore Bordeaux's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Place De La Bourse. This history-steeped public square offers a unique experience. Miroir D'eau is another noteworthy stop.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Lormont, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Upon arrival in Lormont, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Head to La Cité Du Vin, a well-known museum in Lormont. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Toulouse. Toulouse offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Toulouse's best restaurants.
Don’t miss out on dining at Restaurant Le May, a top-rated dining destination in Toulouse. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider L*Agence, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Perche Pinte. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Toulouse this evening.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Moloko, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of The Botanist Pub, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Melting Pot Pub likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Head back to your accommodation in Toulouse and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!
Day 4
- Toulouse
- Blagnac
- Pyrénées-Atlantiques
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Drive 219 km, 2 hours 52 min
- Pont-Neuf
- Jardin des Plantes
- Basilica of St. Sernin
- Place Saint-Pierre
- Musée Aeroscopia
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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 Blagnac. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Pau, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Toulouse. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Pont-neuf is the perfect place to start. This monument is one of the most frequently visited places to visit in Toulouse. Next, head to Jardin Des Plantes, an increasingly popular botanical garden, known for its eye-catching features.
In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Basilica Of St. Sernin. This historic church offers a unique experience that is highly recommended. Meanwhile, Place Saint-pierre adds its own distinct charm to your journey.
When you’ve had your share of Toulouse, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Blagnac. Your travel time is around 15 min.
Your self-guided tour starts at Musée Aeroscopia, an intriguing aviation museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Pau's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
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.
Say good night to Pau and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!
Day 5
- Pyrénées-Atlantiques - Departure day
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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.
On your last day in France, take 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 to try something new, consider Maynats, 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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