One-Week France Road Trip from Pau traveling east to Angouleme, Tours, Bordeaux, Toulouse, and Carcassonne

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Explore the best of France on a 8-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Pau, Angouleme, Chenonceaux, Amboise, Tours, Lormont, Bordeaux, Toulouse, Blagnac, Carcassonne, Lourdes, and Bizanos. 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, 1 night in Angouleme, 1 night in Tours, 1 night in Bordeaux, 1 night in Toulouse, 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 Château De Chenonceau are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Pau, Angouleme, Chenonceaux, Amboise, Tours, Lormont, Bordeaux, Toulouse, Blagnac, Carcassonne, Lourdes, 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!

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Day 1

Day 1 – Pau - arrival day

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques - Arrival day
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  • place Clemenceau
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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 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.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Pau. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Le Henri IV, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Le Garage is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Resto Dit Vin. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Pau tonight.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Snug, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Winfield Café, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, The Galway provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in France!

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Day 2

Day 2 – Pau, and Angouleme

  • Angoulême
  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques
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Drive 332 km, 3 hours 49 min

  • Funicular
  • Musée des Beaux-Arts de Pau
  • Parc Beaumont
  • More

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. In the evening, you’ll end up in Angouleme, where you will stay for 1 night.

Take the opportunity to see Funiculaire De Pau. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,020 visitors.

Musée Des Beaux-arts De Pau is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This art museum has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 554 travelers. Up to 18,267 people visit Musée Des Beaux-arts De Pau every year.

Pau is also the home of Parc Beaumont. Around 2,112 people have rated this green space an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Angouleme, 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 in Angouleme. 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.

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

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Day 3

Day 3 – Angouleme, Chenonceaux, Amboise, and Tours

  • Tours
  • Chenonceaux
  • Amboise
  • More

Drive 289 km, 3 hours 49 min

  • Château de Chenonceau
  • Château Royal d'Amboise
  • Château du Clos Lucé
  • More

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Chenonceaux, and Amboise, 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 Tours. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Chenonceaux’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Angouleme behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 41 min. Chenonceaux welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Make Château De Chenonceau one of your first sightseeing stops in Chenonceaux. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 33,253 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

After soaking in Chenonceaux’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Amboise. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 23 min. When you arrive in Amboise, it's time to take a break from the road.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Château D'amboise, a remarkable château where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 21,016 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Château Du Clos Lucé. This museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 19,292 travelers.

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 Tours. Tours 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.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at TIA Gourmet, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Les Bartavelles offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Au Café d' en face. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Tours.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Cave À Vins Et À Bières Vins Sur 20, Bar Et Soirées À Thème. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Piraat Cafe Tours offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook L'alexandra, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

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Day 4

Day 4 – Tours, Lormont, and Bordeaux

  • Bordeaux
  • Tours
  • Lormont
  • More

Drive 379 km, 4 hours 17 min

  • Château de Villandry
  • Cité du Vin
  • Place de la Bourse
  • Miroir d'eau
  • 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 3 vibrant destinations - Tours, Lormont, and Bordeaux. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bordeaux. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Kick off the day at Château De Villandry, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This château is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 13,506 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Lormont. This car ride takes around 3 hours 20 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to La Cité Du Vin. This museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Lormont, with an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 21,487 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Bordeaux, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Bordeaux. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Le Cent 33, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Le Clemenceau offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, L'Oiseau Bleu 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 Café Brun, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Le Mushroom Café is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Whose Bar 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 5

Day 5 – Bordeaux, and Toulouse

  • Toulouse
  • Bordeaux
  • More

Drive 261 km, 3 hours 26 min

  • Cathédrale Saint-André de Bordeaux
  • Grosse Cloche
  • Porte Cailhau
  • Monument aux Girondins
  • Jardin Public
  • More

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Bordeaux. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Toulouse, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Bordeaux Cathedral. This much-appreciated catholic cathedral is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 10,591 reviews.

Next up is The Big Bell Of Bordeaux. This bell tower has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,871 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Porte Cailhau. This city gate has been rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 4,609 reviews.

Monument Aux Girondins is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This column has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,483 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Jardin Public. This urban park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 12,341 reviews.

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

As you explore more of Toulouse, 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Le May, a top-rated dining destination in Toulouse. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider L*Agence, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Perche Pinte. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Toulouse this evening.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Moloko after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to The Botanist Pub for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Melting Pot Pub is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

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Day 6

Day 6 – Toulouse, Blagnac, and Carcassonne

  • Carcassonne
  • Toulouse
  • Blagnac
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Drive 124 km, 1 hour 58 min

  • Square Charles de Gaulle
  • Basilique Saint-Sernin de Toulouse
  • Musée Aeroscopia
  • Grand Rond
  • Jardin des Plantes
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Toulouse, and Blagnac. 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.

Make Square Charles De Gaulle one of your first sightseeing stops in Toulouse. Rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 4,579 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Basilica Of St. Sernin is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This minor basilica is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,287 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Grand Rond. This urban park has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,069 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Jardin Des Plantes. A trip to this popular park is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.6 out of 5-star rating as given by 9,847 previous visitors.

Blagnac welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Musée Aeroscopia. This museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 9,683 reviews.

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

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.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!

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Day 7

Day 7 – Carcassonne, Lourdes, and Pau

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques
  • Carcassonne
  • Lourdes
  • More

Drive 306 km, 3 hours 41 min

  • Château Comtal
  • Cité de Carcassonne
  • Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary
  • Sanctuaires Notre-Dame de Lourdes
  • More

On day 7 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 Carcassonne, and Lourdes. In the evening, you’ll end up in Pau, where you will stay for 1 night.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Château Comtal. Previous visitors have rated this castle an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,823 reviews.

Cité De Carcassonne is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This fortress is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 76,968 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Carcassonne, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Lourdes may take around 2 hours 41 min. Upon your arrival in Lourdes, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready to see some sights, Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Rosary is a great place to start. This church is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 6,163 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Sanctuary Of Our Lady Of Lourdes. This shrine to the virgin mary has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,217 travelers.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Pau, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the town.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Le Café du Passage, a highly-rated dining destination in Pau. If you're eager to try something different, consider Ô PETIT PAÙ, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at L'Imparfait. With a reputation for consistently satisfied 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!

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Day 8

Day 8 – Pau, and Bizanos - departure day

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques - Departure day
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Day 8 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.

Savor the flavors at Gueuleton - Pau, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Le Poulet à 3 Pattes beckons with its unique menu offerings.

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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