One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Pau traveling north to Bordeaux, Sarlat La Caneda, and Carcassonne

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Photo of aerial view of Paroisse Eglise Saint Martin in Pau, Pyrénées-Atlantiques, France.
Photo of a bridge over river Gave de Pau in Orthez and Pic du midi Ossau ,France.
One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Pau traveling north to Bordeaux, Sarlat La Caneda, and Carcassonne
One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Pau traveling north to Bordeaux, Sarlat La Caneda, and Carcassonne
One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Pau traveling north to Bordeaux, Sarlat La Caneda, and Carcassonne
One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Pau traveling north to Bordeaux, Sarlat La Caneda, and Carcassonne
One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Pau traveling north to Bordeaux, Sarlat La Caneda, and Carcassonne
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Explore the best of France on a remarkable 8-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Pau, Bordeaux, Arcachon, Saint-Sulpice-de-Faleyrens, Saint-Émilion, Calviac-en-Périgord, Sarlat La Caneda, Montignac-Lascaux, Beynac-et-Cazenac, Castelnaud-la-Chapelle, La Roque-Gageac, Carcassonne, and Toulouse.

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, 2 nights in Bordeaux, 2 nights in Sarlat La Caneda, 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 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 Dune Of Pilat are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Pau, Bordeaux, Arcachon, Saint-Sulpice-de-Faleyrens, Saint-Émilion, Calviac-en-Périgord, Sarlat La Caneda, Montignac-Lascaux, Beynac-et-Cazenac, Castelnaud-la-Chapelle, La Roque-Gageac, Carcassonne, and Toulouse, 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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Day1

Day 1

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques - Arrival day
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  • Parc Beaumont
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Welcome to Pau, the perfect starting point for your road trip in France! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night discovering what to see in Pau before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

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. Taking a stroll in the town center is a great alternative. 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Le Henri IV, an iconic dining spot in Pau. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Le Garage, a popular restaurant in Pau. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Au Fin Gourmet, a hidden gem nestled in Pau. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Snug. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Winfield Café offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook The Galway, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

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Day2

Day 2

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques
  • Bordeaux
  • More

Drive 221 km, 2 hours 44 min

  • Musée du Vin et du Négoce de Bordeaux
  • place de la Bourse
  • miroir d'eau
  • Porte Cailhau
  • Bordeaux Cathedral
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Bordeaux. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bordeaux, where will spend 2 nights.

Set your GPS to Bordeaux and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 12 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bordeaux beckons with new experiences!

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Musée Du Vin Et Du Négoce De Bordeaux, a locally appreciated museum that everyone visiting Bordeaux should see. Next, head to Place De La Bourse. This UNESCO world heritage-designated public square is one of the most interesting attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Miroir D'eau, a romantic art installation popular among locals as well as travelers. Porte Cailhau is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this locally appreciated monument before you continue your journey. Lastly, visit Bordeaux Cathedral, a visually striking church and a top attraction in the city.

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

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 Bordeaux, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Dine in style at Le Cent 33, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, L'Originel boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Le Clemenceau. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bordeaux.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Café Brun. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Le Mushroom Café offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Whose Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

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Day3

Day 3

  • Bordeaux
  • Arcachon
  • Saint-Sulpice-de-Faleyrens
  • More

Drive 243 km, 3 hours 37 min

  • Parc Mauresque
  • Dune of Pilat
  • Château Mauvinon
  • More

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bordeaux, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Arcachon, Saint-Sulpice-de-Faleyrens, and Saint-Émilion.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Arcachon. This car ride takes around 1 hour 1 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Parc Mauresque. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the park before you continue to your next stop.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Arcachon, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Bordeaux to Arcachon may take around 1 hour 1 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Arcachon, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Dune Of Pilat, a well-known sand dunes known for its romantic features.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Saint-Sulpice-de-Faleyrens, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Arcachon to Saint-Sulpice-de-Faleyrens may take around 1 hour 17 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Saint-Sulpice-de-Faleyrens, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Château Mauvinon. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the winery before you continue to your next stop.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Bordeaux and your accommodation.

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.

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.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out The Grizzly Pub, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, The Dog And Duck provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

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Day4

Day 4

  • Bordeaux
  • Calviac-en-Périgord
  • Sarlat-la-Canéda
  • More

Drive 224 km, 2 hours 56 min

  • Zoological Reserve Calviac
  • La Forêt des Écureuils
  • Manor Gisson
  • More

On day 4 of your road trip in France, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Calviac-en-Périgord, La Falgueyrade, and Sarlat La Caneda are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Sarlat La Caneda, where you will stay for 2 nights.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Calviac-en-Périgord may take around 2 hours 35 min. Upon your arrival in Calviac-en-Périgord, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Zoological Reserve Calviac, a locally appreciated zoo in Calviac-en-Périgord. Explore its picturesque features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in La Falgueyrade. This drive usually takes around 3 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to La Forêt Des Écureuils, an underrated adventure park in La Falgueyrade. Explore its awe-inspiring features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Sarlat La Caneda. This drive usually takes around 13 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Manor Gisson, an increasingly popular museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Sarlat La Caneda, 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 Sarlat La Caneda. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

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

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Day5

Day 5

  • Sarlat-la-Canéda
  • Montignac
  • Beynac
  • Castelnaud-la-Chapelle
  • More

Drive 84 km, 1 hour 38 min

  • Lascaux 2
  • Château de Beynac
  • Castelnaud-la-Chapelle Castle
  • More

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Sarlat La Caneda, where you have 1 night left to stay.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Sarlat La Caneda and set your GPS to Montignac-Lascaux. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 26 min. Upon reaching Montignac-Lascaux, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Spend your afternoon discovering Lascaux, an up-and-coming cave known for its idyllic features.

Set your GPS to Beynac-et-Cazenac and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 39 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Beynac-et-Cazenac beckons with new experiences!

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Château De Beynac, a captivating castle that everyone visiting Beynac-et-Cazenac should see.

Set your GPS to Castelnaud-la-Chapelle and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 8 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Castelnaud-la-Chapelle beckons with new experiences!

Savor the day by heading to Castelnaud-la-chapelle Castle, a captivating castle that draws visitors from near and far.

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

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 Sarlat La Caneda, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

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Day6

Day 6

  • Sarlat-la-Canéda
  • Carcassonne
  • More

Drive 293 km, 3 hours 21 min

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

On day 6 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.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Carcassonne. This car ride takes around 3 hours 5 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Château Comtal. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the castle before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Cité De Carcassonne. This top-rated castle is a traveler-favorite in the town.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Basilique Saint Nazaire. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a highly-rated dining destination in Carcassonne. If you're eager to try something different, consider La Rapière, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Domaine d'Auriac. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Carcassonne this evening.

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

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Day7

Day 7

  • Carcassonne
  • Toulouse
  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques
  • More

Drive 291 km, 3 hours 53 min

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

Your itinerary for day 7 of your road trip in France includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Toulouse. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Pau, where you'll spend 1 night.

After soaking in Carcassonne’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Toulouse. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 4 min. When you arrive in Toulouse, it's time to take a break from the road.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Muséum De Toulouse, an often recommended museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Musée Des Augustins and admire its standout features.

When you’re ready, continue to Square Charles De Gaulle, a curiosity-inducing public square beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Basilica Of St. Sernin, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit. Not far away, you’ll also find Couvent Des Jacobins, a symbolic place to see that you won’t regret spending some extra time discovering.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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.

Pau 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 Pau.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Resto Dit Vin, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Restaurant L' Ardoise offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Little Monkey Bar is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Pau.

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

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Day8

Day 8

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques - Departure day
  • More
  • place Clémenceau
  • More

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.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Place Clémenceau, a photogenic public square before you head out.

For a last-minute shopping spree in Pau, Quartier du Hédas is nearby. Enjoy a variety of retail stores, dining options, and essential services in one convenient location. Browse through boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces to take home. When you need a break, visit a cafe and relax with a cup of coffee or tea.

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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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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