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

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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, 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 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 Dune Of Pilat are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Place De La Bourse, learn more about the unique Château De Beynac, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Miroir D'eau.

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, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Parc Beaumont
Musée du Vin et du Négoce de Bordeauxplace de la Boursemiroir d'eauPorte CailhauBordeaux Cathedral
Parc MauresqueDune of PilatChâteau MauvinonMonolithic Church of Saint-Emilion
Zoological Reserve CalviacLa Forêt des ÉcureuilsManor Gisson
Lascaux 2Château de BeynacCastelnaud-la-Chapelle CastleThe Marqueyssac gardens
Château comtal de CarcassonneCité de CarcassonneChurch of Saints Nazaire and Celse
Muséum de ToulouseMusée des AugustinsSquare Charles de GaulleBasilica of St. SerninCouvent des JacobinsPont-Neuf
place Clémenceau

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Day 1

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 immersing yourself in Pau's charm 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, or just 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.

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.

Continue your lively evening at Snug, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Winfield Café is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, The Galway ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques
  • Bordeaux
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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

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Bordeaux, 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 Bordeaux. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and photo-friendly spots in Pau. Begin your sightseeing with Musée Du Vin Et Du Négoce De Bordeaux. This increasingly popular museum is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Place De La Bourse, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Pau, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Miroir D'eau. This notable art installation is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Porte Cailhau, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Bordeaux Cathedral is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bordeaux. 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 Bordeaux's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Le Cent 33, a top-rated dining spot in Bordeaux. If you're in the mood for something new, try L'Originel, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Le Clemenceau. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bordeaux.

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.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Bordeaux
  • More

Drive 243 km, 3 hours 37 min

  • Parc Mauresque
  • Dune of Pilat
  • Château Mauvinon
  • Monolithic Church of Saint-Emilion
  • More

On day 3 of your road trip in France, you’ll start and end your day in Bordeaux, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Bordeaux for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Arcachon, Saint-Sulpice-de-Faleyrens, and Saint-Émilion to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at the curiosity-inducing Parc Mauresque, an eye-catching park in Bordeaux. Next, go to Dune Of Pilat.

After visiting Parc Mauresque and Dune Of Pilat, have a stroll along Bordeaux's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Château Mauvinon. This enchanting winery offers a unique experience. Monolithic Church Of Saint-emilion is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

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

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.

Savor the flavors at L'Oiseau Bleu, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Restaurant Soléna beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Hôtel De Sèze. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bordeaux tonight.

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.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Bordeaux
  • Sarlat-la-Canéda
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Drive 224 km, 2 hours 56 min

  • Zoological Reserve Calviac
  • La Forêt des Écureuils
  • Manor Gisson
  • 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 - Calviac-en-Périgord, La Falgueyrade, and Sarlat La Caneda. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Sarlat La Caneda. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Bordeaux, including a zoo, an adventure park, and a museum. Start your day with a visit to Zoological Reserve Calviac. This frequently visited zoo is a must-visit in the village. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to La Forêt Des Écureuils, which may be one of the most stunning places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Bordeaux on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Manor Gisson, a beloved museum in the village.

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.

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

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Sarlat-la-Canéda
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Drive 84 km, 1 hour 38 min

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

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Sarlat La Caneda, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate town. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Montignac-Lascaux, Beynac-et-Cazenac, Castelnaud-la-Chapelle, and La Roque-Gageac. You still have 1 night left in Sarlat La Caneda.

Sarlat La Caneda is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, natural wonders, and picturesque spots! Start at Lascaux, an up-and-coming cave that is worthwhile a visit in the village. Nearby, you’ll find Château De Beynac, enchanting visitors with its history-steeped appeal. Continue your exploration at Castelnaud-la-chapelle Castle. This castle is one of the village’s most locally renowned spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Sarlat La Caneda at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit The Marqueyssac Gardens.

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

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

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Sarlat-la-Canéda
  • Carcassonne
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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, Carcassonne. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Carcassonne, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Immerse yourself in Sarlat La Caneda’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Château Comtal. This romantic castle is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the enchanting features of Cité De Carcassonne, a must-visit castle in the town.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Basilique Saint Nazaire, an often recommended church.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Carcassonne. Carcassonne 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 Carcassonne's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, La Rapière is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Le Domaine d'Auriac. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Carcassonne tonight.

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

  • Carcassonne
  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques
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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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Toulouse. 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.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Carcassonne. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Muséum De Toulouse is the perfect place to start. This museum is one of the most curiosity-inducing places to visit in Carcassonne. Next, head to Musée Des Augustins, a frequently visited museum, known for its heritage-rich 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 Square Charles De Gaulle. This eye-catching public square is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Basilica Of St. Sernin and Couvent Des Jacobins. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey. Finish the day with a visit to Pont-neuf, a history-steeped monument in Carcassonne.

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.

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

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.

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

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques - Departure day
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  • place Clémenceau
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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.

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

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Pau.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at m Restaurant, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Maynats offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Café du Passage.

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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