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

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Experience the freedom of the open road in France as you embark on an unforgettable 7-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Pau, Lourdes, Gez, Carcassonne, Bordeaux, Le Bouscat, and Biarritz.

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 Lourdes, 1 night in Carcassonne, and 2 nights 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 Le Train De La Rhune, learn more about the unique Rocher De La Vierge, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Miroir D'eau.

As you hit the open road and drive through Pau, Lourdes, Gez, Carcassonne, Bordeaux, Le Bouscat, and Biarritz, 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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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Grottes de BétharramBasilica of Our Lady of the RosaryPont d'EspagneAnimal Park of the Pyrenees
Cité de CarcassonneChurch of Saints Nazaire and CelseChâteau comtal de CarcassonneSaint Michael of Carcassonne
miroir d'eauplace de la BoursePorte CailhauMonument aux Girondinsjardin public
Parc de Bourranparc bordelaisThe big bell of BordeauxBasilica of St. Michael, BordeauxBordeaux Cathedral
Rocher de la viergeBiarritz AquariumLe Train de La Rhune

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques - Arrival day
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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 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Le Henri IV, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Le Garage offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Au Fin Gourmet is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Pau.

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

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

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques
  • Lourdes
  • More

Drive 119 km, 2 hours 49 min

  • Grottes de Bétharram
  • Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary
  • Pont d'Espagne
  • 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 Lourdes. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Pau. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Grottes De Bétharram is the perfect place to start. This cave system is one of the most intriguing places to visit in Pau. Next, head to Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Rosary, a worthwhile church, known for its inviting 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 Pont D'espagne. This instagrammable waterfall is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Animal Park Of The Pyrenees. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Hôtel Roissy, Lourdes, a top-rated dining spot in Lourdes. If you're in the mood for something new, try Grand Hôtel Gallia & Londres Bike & NUXE Spa, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Hôtel Saint-Sébastien. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Lourdes.

Head back to your accommodation in Lourdes and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Lourdes
  • Carcassonne
  • More

Drive 265 km, 2 hours 54 min

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Carcassonne. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Carcassonne, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Basilique Saint Nazaire, an enchanting church that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Château Comtal, one of the town’s most frequently visited spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the intriguing Carcassonne Cathedral.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Carcassonne. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a popular restaurant in Carcassonne. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Carcassonne at La Rapière, 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 Le Domaine d'Auriac. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Carcassonne tonight.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Carcassonne
  • Bordeaux
  • More

Drive 340 km, 3 hours 37 min

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 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 Bordeaux. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Carcassonne is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views! Start at Miroir D'eau, a well-known art installation that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Place De La Bourse, enchanting visitors with its enchanting appeal. Continue your exploration at Porte Cailhau. This monument is one of the city’s most beloved spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Carcassonne at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Monument Aux Girondins. After exploring the monument, head to the locally renowned Jardin Public.

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.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Le Cent 33, a top-rated dining destination in Bordeaux. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider L'Originel, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Clemenceau. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bordeaux this evening.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Café Brun, known for its lively atmosphere. Le Mushroom Café is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Whose Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Bordeaux
  • More

Drive 20 km, 1 hour 6 min

  • Parc de Bourran
  • parc bordelais
  • The big bell of Bordeaux
  • Basilica of St. Michael, Bordeaux
  • Bordeaux Cathedral
  • More

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bordeaux, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Le Bouscat and Bordeaux. You still have 1 night left in Bordeaux.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Bordeaux. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await! Parc De Bourran is the perfect place to start. This park is one of the most worthwhile places to visit in Bordeaux. Next, head to Parc Bordelais, a beloved park, known for its romantic 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 The Big Bell Of Bordeaux. This picture-perfect historical landmark is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Basilica Of St. Michael, Bordeaux and Bordeaux Cathedral. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at L'Oiseau Bleu, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Restaurant Soléna offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Hôtel De Sèze is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bordeaux.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Grizzly Pub is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, The Dog And Duck also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Bordeaux
  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques
  • More

Drive 374 km, 4 hours 40 min

  • Rocher de la vierge
  • Biarritz Aquarium
  • Le Train de La Rhune
  • More

On day 6 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 Biarritz and Bayonne. In the evening, you’ll end up in Pau, where you will stay for 1 night.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Bordeaux, including a rock formation, an aquarium, and a heritage railway. Start your day at Rocher De La Vierge. This serene rock formation is a popular place to see in Bordeaux. Then, wander over to Biarritz Aquarium. If breathtaking sites excite you, this aquarium will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Le Train De La Rhune. This stunning heritage railway is a favorite among visitors.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Pau's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Resto Dit Vin, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant L' Ardoise? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Little Monkey Bar as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Pau.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in France.

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques - Departure day
  • More

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.

As your final day in France unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Pau's best shopping area, Les Halles de Pau. 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.

Dine in style at m Restaurant, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Maynats boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

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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