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

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

Start your day with a visit to Grottes De Bétharram. This locally appreciated cave system is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Rosary, which may be one of the most culturally significant places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Pau 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 Basilica Of St. Pius X, an intriguing minor basilica in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Animal Park Of The Pyrenees.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Hôtel Roissy, Lourdes, a highly-rated dining destination in Lourdes. If you're eager to try something different, consider Grand Hôtel Gallia & Londres Bike & NUXE Spa, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hôtel Saint-Sébastien. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Lourdes this evening.

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

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Aspin-en-Lavedan and Lourdes. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Carcassonne, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today's adventure in Lourdes promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Funiculaire Du Pic Du Jer. This eye-catching tramway is a highlight of any visit in the village. Then, enjoy Pont D'espagne, another idyllic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Pic Du Midi Observatory, one of the village’s most up-and-coming attractions, known for its historic features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Col Du Tourmalet. This majestic mountain range is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Carcassonne. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.

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

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

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.

Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Cité De Carcassonne, an enchanting castle that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Jardin Des Plantes, one of the town’s most worthwhile spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the captivating Jardin Japonais Pierre Baudis.

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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bordeaux. 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.

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, L'Originel offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Le Clemenceau is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bordeaux.

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.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Bordeaux. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bayonne, which will be your home away from home for 3 nights.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Bordeaux allows for both. Start by heading to Jardin Public. This notable park provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Monument Aux Girondins, a historic monument, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Place De La Bourse, a captivating public square. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the notable Miroir D'eau. Round off your day at The Big Bell Of Bordeaux, another gem in Bordeaux with instagrammable features to discover.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at JANINE, a top-rated dining destination in Bayonne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Josie Factory, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Belzunce. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bayonne this evening.

Keep the evening going at Dame Jeanne, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Café Des Pyrénées, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Kubata & Kukubat, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Bayonne, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Bayonne today. One of the most locally appreciated attractions included on the itinerary is Chambre D'amour Playground. This breathtaking playground will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Biarritz Lighthouse and learn what makes this enchanting lighthouse unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the captivating Rocher De La Vierge. After exploring the rock formation, head to Biarritz Aquarium. This locally renowned aquarium is a highlight in Bayonne. As your day continues, stop by Isturitz And Oxocelhaya Caves, known for its picturesque features.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Le Victor Hugo, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Bar Remy is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restaurant La Grange. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bayonne tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at La Karafe, a top-rated bar in the area.

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

On day 7 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 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Bayonne and Bidart to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Today’s agenda in Bayonne includes a church, a museum, a beach, a heritage railway, a cave system and much more! Bayonne Cathedral is must-visit church and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Basque Museum In Bayonne, a frequently visited museum, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Plage De Bidart, an eye-catching beach, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Bayonne. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the interesting Le Train De La Rhune. If you’re looking for more, Caves Of Sare is also a beloved attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

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

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 delightful dinner at Kalostrape, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try La Verbena Les Halles? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Bakera as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bayonne.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Biarritz, Saint Jean De Luz, and Hendaye. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Pau. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Start your day at Sainte-eugénie Church Of Biarritz. This inviting church is an up-and-coming place to see in Bayonne. Then, wander over to Fort Du Socoa. If visually striking sites excite you, this castle will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find The Basque Corniche. This mesmerizing cliff is a favorite among visitors.

Bayonne offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Abbadia Castle is a locally appreciated spot in the town that will captivate you with its unique charm. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this beloved point of interest.

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.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Resto Dit Vin, a popular restaurant in Pau. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Pau at Restaurant L' Ardoise, 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 Little Monkey Bar. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Pau tonight.

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