7-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Pau to Tarbes, Carcassonne, Toulouse, and Albi

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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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Explore the best of France on a remarkable 7-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Pau, Lourdes, Aspin-en-Lavedan, Tarbes, Carcassonne, Toulouse, Albi, and Auch.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in France. You will spend 2 nights in Pau, 1 night in Tarbes, 1 night in Carcassonne, 1 night in Toulouse, and 1 night in Albi. 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 Albi Cathedral are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Basilica Of St. Sernin, learn more about the unique Jardin Des Plantes, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Château Comtal.

As you hit the open road and drive through Pau, Lourdes, Aspin-en-Lavedan, Tarbes, Carcassonne, Toulouse, Albi, 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
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Day 1

Day 1

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques - Arrival day
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  • Parc Beaumont
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Say hello to Pau! Your exciting road trip through France is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the town. You will stay in Pau for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

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.

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 your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Snug, known for its inviting atmosphere. Winfield Café is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, The Galway provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in France!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques
  • Tarbes
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Drive 70 km, 1 hour 43 min

  • Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes
  • Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary
  • Basilica of St. Pius X
  • funiculaire du pic du Jer
  • Massey Garden
  • More

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you'll explore 3 destinations, including Lourdes, Aspin-en-Lavedan, and Tarbes. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Tarbes, where you'll spend 1 night.

Experience Sanctuary Of Our Lady Of Lourdes, an intriguing church in the town. Then, head to Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Rosary and soak in the ambiance of this heritage-rich church.

After exploring the minor basilica, visit the often recommended Funiculaire Du Pic Du Jer. Not far away, you'll also find Massey Garden. This botanical garden is an instagrammable highlight in Pau.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Tarbes, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

Tarbes is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Tarbes.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Tarbes
  • Carcassonne
  • More

Drive 243 km, 2 hours 39 min

  • Château comtal de Carcassonne
  • Cité de Carcassonne
  • Musée de l'Ecole
  • Church of Saints Nazaire and Celse
  • More

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Carcassonne. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Carcassonne, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Make a stop at Château Comtal. This beloved castle is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Cité De Carcassonne located in Tarbes for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Musée De L'ecole. Its photogenic features will captivate you. After the museum, continue your tour of the town with a visit to Basilique Saint Nazaire. Visitors usually appreciate the history-steeped features of this church.

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.

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

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.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Carcassonne
  • Toulouse
  • More

Drive 95 km, 1 hour 52 min

  • Jardin des Plantes
  • Muséum de Toulouse
  • Pont-Neuf
  • Couvent des Jacobins
  • Basilica of St. Sernin
  • Square Charles de Gaulle
  • More

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

Visiting Jardin Des Plantes is always a good idea. This frequently visited botanical garden is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the photogenic wonders of Muséum De Toulouse, a must-see museum in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Pont-neuf. This beloved monument offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Couvent Des Jacobins, where you can take in picture-perfect features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Basilica Of St. Sernin and Square Charles De Gaulle. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Toulouse. Toulouse offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

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

Cap off your dinner by heading to Moloko, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The Botanist Pub is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Melting Pot Pub is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Head back to your accommodation in Toulouse and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in France.

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Toulouse
  • Albi
  • More

Drive 76 km, 1 hour 21 min

  • Sainte-Cecile Cathedral of Albi
  • Berbie Palace
  • Musée Toulouse-Lautrec
  • Pont Vieux
  • Collégiale Saint-Salvy
  • Jardin National
  • 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 place, which are Albi. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Albi, where will spend 1 night.

Check out the notable church, Albi Cathedral. Afterward, continue to Berbie Palace, a palace every traveler should visit. As you explore Toulouse’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town.

Next, make your way to Musée Toulouse-lautrec. This up-and-coming museum is an essential stop. Following that, head to Pont Vieux, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Collégiale Saint-salvy (albi), an intriguing church in the town. Finally, end your day with a visit to Jardin National, an eye-catching park that offers the perfect conclusion to your sightseeing of the day.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at O'Sully'S Albi, an iconic dining spot in Albi. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Albi
  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques
  • More

Drive 261 km, 4 hours 6 min

  • Park Couloumé
  • Musée des Jacobins
  • Cathédrale Sainte-Marie
  • More

Your itinerary for day 6 of your road trip in France includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Auch. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Pau, where you'll spend 1 night.

To truly experience Albi, make sure to drop by Park Couloumé. This frequently visited park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Musée Des Jacobins, one of the town’s best highlights.

Next, check out Cathédrale Sainte-marie, one of the most worthwhile places to see in Albi. This church is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Pau. Check in and relax 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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Resto Dit Vin, a popular restaurant in Pau. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Pau at Restaurant L' Ardoise, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Little Monkey Bar. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Pau tonight.

As the sun sets, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques - Departure day
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  • place Clémenceau
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Day 7 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, a heritage-rich public square before you head out.

Take advantage of your accommodation's proximity to Pau’s shopping district for some last-minute bargain hunting. Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at m Restaurant, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Maynats? It's another excellent option with a diverse 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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