One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Pau traveling east to Carcassonne, Lyon, Vichy, Blois, and Bordeaux

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Lourdes and Gez. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Carcassonne, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Lourdes’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Pau behind. This drive usually takes around 35 min. Lourdes welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Take your self-guided tour to Grottes De Bétharram, an underrated cave system that everyone visiting Lourdes should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

After soaking in Lourdes’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Lourdes. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 16 min. When you arrive in Lourdes, it's time to take a break from the road.

Take your self-guided tour to Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Rosary, an increasingly popular church that everyone visiting Lourdes should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

Set your GPS to Gez and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 21 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Gez beckons with new experiences!

Animal Park Of The Pyrenees is a locally appreciated zoo we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its picturesque features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a top-rated dining destination in Carcassonne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Rapière, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Domaine d'Auriac. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Carcassonne this evening.

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

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 Carcassonne and Nimes. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lyon, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Start your day with a visit to Château Comtal. This beloved castle is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Cité De Carcassonne, which may be one of the most visually striking places you will experience today.

When you’ve had your share of Carcassonne, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Nimes. Your travel time is around 2 hours 2 min.

Begin your journey at Jardin De La Fontaine and explore the enchanting 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 Lyon. Lyon 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 Lyon's best restaurants.

Make sure to reserve a table at Nuage café, an iconic dining spot in Lyon. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Café du Rhône, a popular restaurant in Lyon. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Agastache Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Lyon. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at L' Antiquaire, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Black Forest Society offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Lyon. Pompette is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

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 2 vibrant destinations - Lyon and Caluire-et-Cuire. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Vichy. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today's adventure in Lyon promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Place Bellecour. This detailed public square is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Fresque Des Lyonnais, another picture-perfect attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière, one of the city’s most interesting attractions, known for its majestic features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Lyon Cathedral. This romantic church is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

Set your GPS to Caluire-et-Cuire and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 15 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Caluire-et-Cuire beckons with new experiences!

Your self-guided tour starts at Parc De La Tête D'or, a widely recognized park 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 Vichy, 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 Vichy. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Vichy.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.

On day 7 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 Pau, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots await you in Bordeaux on today’s itinerary. First up is the often recommended monument, Monument Aux Girondins. It's a standout spot that offers a memorable visit. Afterward, continue to The Big Bell Of Bordeaux. A visit to this historical landmark is an enriching experience for all.

As you explore Bordeaux’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Miroir D'eau. This locally renowned art installation is an essential stop that should not be missed. Following that, head to Place De La Bourse, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

Le Bouscat welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Parc Bordelais is an underrated park we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its eye-catching features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Resto Dit Vin, a highly-rated dining destination in Pau. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurant L' Ardoise, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Little Monkey Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Pau this evening.

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