One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Pau traveling north to Angouleme, Orléans, Paris, Tours, and Bordeaux
Description
Included
Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 8-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 Angouleme, 1 night in Orléans, 1 night in Paris, 1 night in Tours, and 1 night 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. Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Arc De Triomphe, learn more about the unique Champ De Mars, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Sacré-cœur.
As you hit the open road and drive through Pau, Angouleme, Blois, Orléans, Paris, Tours, Bordeaux, Lormont, 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
- Pyrénées-Atlantiques - Arrival day
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- place Clémenceau
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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.
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. 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.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Snug, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Winfield Café offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, The Galway provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in France!
Day 2
- Pyrénées-Atlantiques
- Angoulême
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Drive 332 km, 3 hours 25 min
- Funicular
- Musée des Beaux-Arts de Pau
- Parc Beaumont
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Pau. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Angouleme, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Pau today. One of the most beloved attractions included on the itinerary is Funiculaire De Pau. This respected tramway will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Musée Des Beaux-arts De Pau and learn what makes this photogenic museum unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the up-and-coming Parc Beaumont.
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 Angouleme. Angouleme 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.
As you explore more of Angouleme, 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.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!
Day 3
- Angoulême
- Blois
- Orléans
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Drive 367 km, 4 hours 37 min
- Château de Blois
- Jacques-Gabriel Bridge
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Blois, 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 Orléans. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Blois. This car ride takes around 2 hours 55 min.
Château De Blois is an interesting castle we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its culturally significant features before continuing your self-guided tour to Jacques-gabriel Bridge, an enchanting monument that’s well-regarded in the area.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Orléans, 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 Orléans. 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 delicious meal at Restaurant des Plantes, a highly-rated dining destination in Orléans. If you're eager to try something different, consider Crêperie Bretonne - Restaurant de spécialités de Galettes et Crêpes fait maison, à base de produits frais & Bar breton, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Paul & Juliette. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Orléans this evening.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Le Moog, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Java Pop offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Le Charbon. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!
Day 4
- Orléans
- Paris
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Drive 146 km, 2 hours 39 min
- Eiffel Tower
- Champ de Mars
- Arc de Triomphe
- Sacré-Cœur
- place de la Concorde
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On day 4 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 Paris. In the evening, you’ll end up in Paris, where you will stay for 1 night.
After soaking in Orléans’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Paris. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 37 min. When you arrive in Paris, it's time to take a break from the road.
Head to Eiffel Tower, a wondrous monument in Paris. Explore its history-steeped features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, Champ De Mars. This globally renowned park is a top recommendation in the area. When you’re ready to explore more, Arc De Triomphe is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most symbolic monument in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the globally renowned Sacré-cœur and discover what makes this church unique. If you’re up for one more stop in the city, head to Place De La Concorde, a romantic public square many travelers find worthwhile the visit.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Paris. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Paris's best restaurants.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Mumi, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Beaurepaire Ambassade du Béarn - Restaurant Paris Terrasse is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at L'Imprévu Café. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Paris tonight.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Café De Paris V is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Dirty Dick, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Little Red Door. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 5
- Paris
- Tours
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Drive 241 km, 2 hours 51 min
- Musée d'Orsay
- Tuileries Garden
- Louvre Museum
- Pont Neuf
- Jardin du Luxembourg
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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 1 vibrant destinations - Paris. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Tours. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today's adventure in Paris promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Musée D'orsay. This enchanting museum is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Tuileries Garden, another visually striking attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Louvre Museum, one of the city’s most world-famous attractions, known for its photogenic features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Pont Neuf. This visually striking monument is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Jardin Du Luxembourg, an impressive park, and take a stroll around the area.
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 Hotel Restaurant Le Faisan. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Tours.
Continue your lively evening at Cave À Vins Et À Bières Vins Sur 20, Bar Et Soirées À Thème, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Piraat Cafe Tours is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, L'alexandra ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Head back to your accommodation in Tours and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!
Day 6
- Tours
- Bordeaux
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Drive 394 km, 4 hours 34 min
- Prébendes d'Oé Garden
- Jardin botanique de Tours
- Château de Villandry
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On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Tours. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bordeaux, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in the charming city of Tours. Your adventure starts at Prébendes D'oé Garden, a locally appreciated local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Jardin Botanique De Tours. This underrated botanical garden is known for its romantic appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Tours's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Château De Villandry. This romantic castle offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.
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.
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.
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.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Café Brun after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Le Mushroom Café for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Whose Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
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.
Day 7
- Bordeaux
- Lormont
- Pyrénées-Atlantiques
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Drive 228 km, 2 hours 53 min
- place de la Bourse
- miroir d'eau
- Cité du Vin
- jardin public
- Bordeaux Cathedral
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Bordeaux and Lormont. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Pau, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Bordeaux is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views! Start at Place De La Bourse, a captivating public square that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Miroir D'eau, enchanting visitors with its romantic appeal. Continue your exploration at Jardin Public. This park is one of the city’s most well-known spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Bordeaux at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Bordeaux Cathedral.
Head to La Cité Du Vin, a well-known museum in Lormont. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
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.
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.
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.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!
Day 8
- 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.
Make the most of your final day in France by visiting Pau’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Centre Bosquet. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience 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.
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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