6-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Pau traveling north to Bordeaux, Albi, and Carcassonne
Description
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 6-day road trip through France. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
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, 1 night in Albi, 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 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 Dune Of Pilat are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Pau, Arjuzanx, Mimizan, Bordeaux, Arcachon, Albi, Gaillac, Carcassonne, Toulouse, 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 – Pau - arrival day
- 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.
Find your way to your hotel in Pau. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in France. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Pau. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Make sure to book a table at Le Henri IV, a popular restaurant in Pau. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Pau at Le Garage, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Au Fin Gourmet. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Pau tonight.
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!
Day 2 – Pau, Arjuzanx, Mimizan, and Bordeaux
- Pyrénées-Atlantiques
- Arjuzanx
- Mimizan
- Bordeaux
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Drive 301 km, 4 hours 27 min
- Funicular
- Parc Beaumont
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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, Arjuzanx, and Mimizan. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bordeaux, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today's adventure in Pau promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Funiculaire De Pau. This stunning tramway is a highlight of any visit in the town. Then, enjoy Parc Beaumont, another romantic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Pau, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Arjuzanx may take around 1 hour 40 min. Upon your arrival in Arjuzanx, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to National Hunting Reserve And Wildlife Arjuzanx, a frequently visited wildlife reserve that draws visitors from near and far.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Arjuzanx and set your GPS to Mimizan. 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 54 min. Upon reaching Mimizan, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is La Promenade Fleurie. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the sculpture garden before you continue to your next stop.
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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bordeaux. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Make sure to book a table at Le Cent 33, a popular restaurant in Bordeaux. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bordeaux at L'Originel, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Le Clemenceau. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Bordeaux tonight.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Café Brun, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Le Mushroom Café offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Whose Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!
Day 3 – Bordeaux, Arcachon, and Albi
- Bordeaux
- Arcachon
- Albi
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Drive 441 km, 4 hours 45 min
- jardin public
- place de la Bourse
- miroir d'eau
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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 Bordeaux and Arcachon. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Albi, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Bordeaux is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a park, a public square, and an art installation. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the notable Jardin Public. Just a short distance away is Place De La Bourse, an UNESCO world heritage-listed public square that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Miroir D'eau, one of the city’s most well-known spots that you shouldn’t miss.
After soaking in Bordeaux’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Arcachon. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 4 min. When you arrive in Arcachon, it's time to take a break from the road.
Dune Of Pilat is a locally renowned sand dunes we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its mesmerizing features before continuing your self-guided tour.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Albi, 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 Albi. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at O'Sully'S Albi, a top-rated dining destination in Albi.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!
Day 4 – Albi, Gaillac, and Carcassonne
- Albi
- Gaillac
- Carcassonne
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Drive 173 km, 1 hour 58 min
- Sainte-Cecile Cathedral of Albi
- Musée Toulouse-Lautrec
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Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Albi and Gaillac, 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 1 night.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Albi today. One of the most captivating attractions included on the itinerary is Albi Cathedral. This majestic church will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Musée Toulouse-lautrec and learn what makes this instagrammable museum unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the often recommended Parc Rochegude.
Set your GPS to Gaillac and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 19 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Gaillac beckons with new experiences!
Your self-guided tour starts at Parc Du Chateau De Foucaud Manège Belle Epoque, a worthwhile park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Parc De Foucaud and admire its eye-catching features.
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 Carcassonne. Carcassonne 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 Carcassonne's best restaurants.
Make sure to reserve a table at Brasserie a 4 Temps, an iconic dining spot in Carcassonne. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of La Rapière, a popular restaurant in Carcassonne. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Le Domaine d'Auriac, a hidden gem nestled in Carcassonne. 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!
Day 5 – Carcassonne, Toulouse, and Pau
- Carcassonne
- Toulouse
- Pyrénées-Atlantiques
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Drive 298 km, 3 hours 41 min
- Château comtal de Carcassonne
- Cité de Carcassonne
- Grand Rond
- Basilica of St. Sernin
- Jardin des Plantes
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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 2 vibrant destinations - Carcassonne and Toulouse. 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.
Immerse yourself in Carcassonne’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Château Comtal. This UNESCO world heritage-designated castle is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the UNESCO world heritage-listed features of Cité De Carcassonne, a must-visit castle in the town.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Toulouse. This car ride takes around 1 hour 1 min.
Spend your afternoon discovering Grand Rond, a worthwhile park known for its remarkable features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Basilica Of St. Sernin, a popular church that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region. Next, stop by Jardin Des Plantes and uncover the details of this romantic botanical garden.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Pau's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Dine in style at Resto Dit Vin, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurant L' Ardoise boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Little Monkey Bar. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Pau.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.
Day 6 – Pau and Bizanos - departure day
- Pyrénées-Atlantiques - Departure day
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- Parc Beaumont
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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.
Maximize your last day in France and go on a shopping spree in Pau’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in France.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Pau.
Have a fantastic dining experience at m Restaurant, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Maynats offers an enticing alternative with its varied 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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