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

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Explore the best of France on a 6-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Pau, Lourdes, Gez, Carcassonne, Lastours, Bordeaux, and Le Bouscat. 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, 2 nights in Carcassonne, and 1 night in Bordeaux. 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 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 Bordeaux Cathedral.

As you hit the open road and drive through Pau, Lourdes, Gez, Carcassonne, Lastours, Bordeaux, and Le Bouscat, 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!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Grottes de BétharramBasilica of Our Lady of the RosaryAnimal Park of the Pyrenees
Cité de CarcassonneChurch of Saints Nazaire and CelseChâteau comtal de CarcassonneLes Quatre Châteaux de Lastours
Basilica of St. Michael, BordeauxThe big bell of BordeauxBordeaux Cathedralparc bordelais
jardin publicMonument aux GirondinsPorte Cailhaumiroir d'eauplace de la Bourse

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques - Arrival day
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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 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 hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars 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.

Keep the evening going at Snug, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Winfield Café, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is The Galway, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in France!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques
  • Carcassonne
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Drive 329 km, 4 hours 3 min

  • Grottes de Bétharram
  • Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary
  • Animal Park of the Pyrenees
  • More

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Lourdes and Gez, 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 Carcassonne. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Pau is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a cave system, a church, and a zoo. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the underrated Grottes De Bétharram and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Rosary, a standout church that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Animal Park Of The Pyrenees, one of the city’s most worthwhile spots that you shouldn’t miss.

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.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Carcassonne
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Drive 42 km, 1 hour 6 min

  • Cité de Carcassonne
  • Church of Saints Nazaire and Celse
  • Château comtal de Carcassonne
  • Les Quatre Châteaux de Lastours
  • More

Greet day 3 of your road trip in France with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Carcassonne for your remaining 1 night in the town later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Carcassonne and Lastours.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is Cité De Carcassonne. This spectacular castle is a grand place to see in Carcassonne. Continue your discovery at Basilique Saint Nazaire, a visually striking church with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Carcassonne, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Château Comtal. This often recommended castle offers a visually striking encounter with Carcassonne. Next, make your way to Les Quatre Châteaux De Lastours to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Carcassonne.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at V and B Carcassonne, a top-rated dining destination in Carcassonne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Auberge des Lices, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Adélaïde. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Carcassonne this evening.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Carcassonne
  • Bordeaux
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Drive 341 km, 3 hours 42 min

  • Basilica of St. Michael, Bordeaux
  • The big bell of Bordeaux
  • Bordeaux Cathedral
  • parc bordelais
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Bordeaux and Le Bouscat. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bordeaux, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Whether you decide to explore Carcassonne on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Basilica Of St. Michael, Bordeaux is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this picture-perfect church before continuing your journey. The Big Bell Of Bordeaux is your next stop. This worthwhile historical landmark is one of the best-rated sights in Carcassonne.

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 Bordeaux Cathedral. This symbolic church is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Parc Bordelais.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Bordeaux, 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 Bordeaux's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Le Cent 33, a top-rated dining spot in Bordeaux. If you're in the mood for something new, try L'Originel, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Le Clemenceau. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bordeaux.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Café Brun is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Le Mushroom Café, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Whose Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Bordeaux
  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques
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Drive 221 km, 2 hours 31 min

  • jardin public
  • Monument aux Girondins
  • Porte Cailhau
  • miroir d'eau
  • place de la Bourse
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Bordeaux. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Pau. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Bordeaux, including a park, a monument, an art installation, a public square and much more! Start your day with a visit to Jardin Public. This interesting park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Monument Aux Girondins, which may be one of the most picture-perfect places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Bordeaux on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Porte Cailhau, an often recommended monument in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Miroir D'eau and Place De La Bourse.

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.

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 and reflect on the day'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 reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques - Departure day
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Day 6 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.

As your final day in France unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Pau's best shopping area, Centre Bosquet. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to France.

Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Pau.

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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