9-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Pau to Lourdes, Carcassonne, Bordeaux, and Bayonne and surrounding area

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Explore the best of France on a 9-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Pau, Lourdes, Gez, Aspin-en-Lavedan, Carcassonne, Toulouse, Bordeaux, Bayonne, Biarritz, Saint-Martin-d'Arberoue, Bidart, Saint Jean De Luz, and Hendaye. 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 Lourdes, 1 night in Carcassonne, 1 night in Bordeaux, and 3 nights in Bayonne. 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 Place De La Bourse are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Le Train De La Rhune, learn more about the unique Rocher De La Vierge, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Jardin Japonais Pierre Baudis.

As you hit the open road and drive through Pau, Lourdes, Gez, Aspin-en-Lavedan, Carcassonne, Toulouse, Bordeaux, Bayonne, Biarritz, Saint-Martin-d'Arberoue, Bidart, Saint Jean De Luz, and Hendaye, 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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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Grottes de BétharramBasilica of Our Lady of the RosaryBasilica of St. Pius XAnimal Park of the Pyrenees
funiculaire du pic du JerPont d'EspagnePic du Midi ObservatoryCol du Tourmalet
Château comtal de CarcassonneCité de CarcassonneJardin des PlantesJardin Japonais Pierre Baudis
jardin publicMonument aux Girondinsplace de la Boursemiroir d'eauThe big bell of Bordeaux
Chambre D'Amour PlaygroundBiarritz LighthouseRocher de la viergeBiarritz AquariumIsturitz and Oxocelhaya caves

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques - Arrival day
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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 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.

Keep the evening going at Snug, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Winfield Café, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is The Galway, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in France!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques
  • Lourdes
  • More

Drive 69 km, 1 hour 27 min

  • Grottes de Bétharram
  • Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary
  • Basilica of St. Pius X
  • Animal Park of the Pyrenees
  • More

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 Lourdes, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Grottes De Bétharram is must-visit cave system and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Rosary, an often recommended church, located just a leisurely stroll away.

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

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Hôtel Roissy, Lourdes, a top-rated dining spot in Lourdes. If you're in the mood for something new, try Grand Hôtel Gallia & Londres Bike & NUXE Spa, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Hôtel Saint-Sébastien. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Lourdes.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Lourdes
  • Carcassonne
  • More

Drive 366 km, 6 hours 5 min

  • funiculaire du pic du Jer
  • Pont d'Espagne
  • Pic du Midi Observatory
  • Col du Tourmalet
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Aspin-en-Lavedan and Lourdes. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Carcassonne. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Funiculaire Du Pic Du Jer. This up-and-coming tramway is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Pont D'espagne, one of the village’s best highlights.

Next, check out Pic Du Midi Observatory, one of the most frequently visited places to see in Lourdes. This astronomical observatory is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Col Du Tourmalet. Wander around and soak in the enchanting atmosphere this mountain range offers.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Carcassonne, 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 Carcassonne, 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, La Rapière offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Le Domaine d'Auriac is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Carcassonne.

Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Carcassonne
  • Bordeaux
  • More

Drive 345 km, 3 hours 58 min

  • Château comtal de Carcassonne
  • Cité de Carcassonne
  • Jardin des Plantes
  • Jardin Japonais Pierre Baudis
  • More

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Carcassonne and Toulouse, 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 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at the worthwhile Château Comtal, a grand castle in Carcassonne. Next, go to Cité De Carcassonne.

After visiting Château Comtal and Cité De Carcassonne, have a stroll along Carcassonne's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Jardin Des Plantes. This eye-catching botanical garden offers a unique experience. Jardin Japonais Pierre Baudis is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

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.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Le Cent 33, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, L'Originel is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Le Clemenceau. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bordeaux tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Café Brun, known for its lively atmosphere. Le Mushroom Café is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Whose Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Bordeaux
  • Bayonne
  • More

Drive 195 km, 2 hours 27 min

  • jardin public
  • Monument aux Girondins
  • place de la Bourse
  • miroir d'eau
  • The big bell of Bordeaux
  • More

On day 5 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 Bordeaux. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bayonne, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Jardin Public. This well-known park is a romantic place to see in Bordeaux. Continue your discovery at Monument Aux Girondins, a breathtaking monument with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Bordeaux, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Place De La Bourse. This captivating public square offers a majestic encounter with Bordeaux. Next, make your way to Miroir D'eau to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit The Big Bell Of Bordeaux, a curiosity-inducing historical landmark that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Bordeaux.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at JANINE, a popular restaurant in Bayonne. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bayonne at Josie Factory, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Le Belzunce. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Bayonne tonight.

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

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Bayonne
  • More

Drive 90 km, 1 hour 49 min

  • Chambre D'Amour Playground
  • Biarritz Lighthouse
  • Rocher de la vierge
  • Biarritz Aquarium
  • Isturitz and Oxocelhaya caves
  • More

On day 6 of your road trip in France, you’ll start and end your day in Bayonne, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the town. Since you will return to Bayonne for 2 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Biarritz and Saint-Martin-d'Arberoue to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Start by visiting Chambre D'amour Playground, a prime spot to begin your journey. This eye-catching playground is sure to impress. Next on your list is Biarritz Lighthouse, another must-visit landmark and increasingly popular lighthouse renowned for its history-steeped features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Bayonne by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Rocher De La Vierge. This eye-catching rock formation is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Bayonne experience. We also recommend visiting Biarritz Aquarium, a captivating aquarium. Nearby, you'll also find Isturitz And Oxocelhaya Caves, ready to add charm to your journey.

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

As you explore more of Bayonne, 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Le Victor Hugo, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Bar Remy offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurant La Grange. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bayonne.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at La Karafe, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Bayonne
  • More

Drive 95 km, 2 hours 13 min

  • Bayonne Cathedral
  • Basque Museum in Bayonne
  • Plage de Bidart
  • Le Train de La Rhune
  • Caves of Sare
  • More

On day 7 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bayonne, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Bayonne today. One of the most underrated attractions included on the itinerary is Bayonne Cathedral. This picture-perfect church will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Basque Museum In Bayonne and learn what makes this eye-catching museum unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the underrated Plage De Bidart. After exploring the beach, head to Le Train De La Rhune. This popular heritage railway is a highlight in Bayonne. As your day continues, stop by Caves Of Sare, known for its visually striking features.

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

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Kalostrape, a top-rated dining spot in Bayonne. If you're in the mood for something new, try La Verbena Les Halles, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Bakera. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bayonne.

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

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Bayonne
  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques
  • More

Drive 185 km, 2 hours 44 min

  • Sainte-Eugénie Church of Biarritz
  • Fort du Socoa
  • The Basque Corniche
  • Abbadia Castle
  • The bench Berritsu
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Biarritz, Saint Jean De Luz, and Hendaye. 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.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in Bayonne. Begin your sightseeing with Sainte-eugénie Church Of Biarritz. This curiosity-inducing church is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Fort Du Socoa, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Bayonne, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to The Basque Corniche. This underrated cliff is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Abbadia Castle, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. The Bench Berritsu is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

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.

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

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.

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 9

Day 9

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques - Departure day
  • More

Day 9 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.

As your final day in France unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Pau's best shopping area, Les Halles de Pau. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to 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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