9-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Pau to Lourdes, Carcassonne, Bordeaux, and Bayonne and surrounding area
Description
Included
Description
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!
Itinerary summary
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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.
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.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Snug after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Winfield Café, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, The Galway also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in France!
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
Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Lourdes and Gez, 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 Lourdes. You’ll stay here 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, a curiosity-inducing church, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Basilica Of St. Pius X, a culturally significant minor basilica, also available for your discovery today.
Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Pau. If you’re looking for more, Animal Park Of The Pyrenees is also a worthwhile attraction that is worthwhile a visit.
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.
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 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
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.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Lourdes. Some of the village’s most loved attractions await. Funiculaire Du Pic Du Jer is the perfect place to start. This tramway is one of the most beloved places to visit in Lourdes. Next, head to Pont D'espagne, an intriguing waterfall, known for its eye-catching 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 Pic Du Midi Observatory. This breathtaking astronomical observatory offers a unique experience that is highly recommended. Meanwhile, Col Du Tourmalet adds its own distinct charm to your journey.
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.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Brasserie a 4 Temps, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try La Rapière? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Le Domaine d'Auriac as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Carcassonne.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!
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
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 Carcassonne and Toulouse. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bordeaux, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is Château Comtal. This intriguing castle is a romantic place to see in Carcassonne. Continue your discovery at Cité De Carcassonne, an enchanting castle with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Carcassonne, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Jardin Des Plantes. This worthwhile botanical garden offers a majestic encounter with Carcassonne. Next, make your way to Jardin Japonais Pierre Baudis to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Carcassonne.
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 explore more of Bordeaux, 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.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Le Cent 33, a popular restaurant in Bordeaux. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bordeaux at L'Originel, 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 Clemenceau. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Bordeaux tonight.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Café Brun is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Le Mushroom Café, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Whose Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!
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
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.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Bordeaux, including a park, a monument, a public square, an art installation, a historical landmark and much more! Start your adventure at Jardin Public. This interesting park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Monument Aux Girondins located in Bordeaux for an enchanting atmosphere.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Place De La Bourse. Its enchanting features will captivate you. After the public square, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Miroir D'eau. This art installation has a romantic appeal. For a change of pace, head to The Big Bell Of Bordeaux. As one of the most curiosity-inducing attractions in Bordeaux, this historical landmark is an excellent place to end your self-guided tour.
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.
Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
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, you’ll start and end your day in Bayonne, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate town. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Biarritz and Saint-Martin-d'Arberoue. You still have 2 nights left in Bayonne.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Bayonne. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await. Chambre D'amour Playground is the perfect place to start. This playground is one of the most worthwhile places to visit in Bayonne. Next, head to Biarritz Lighthouse, a beloved lighthouse, known for its visually striking 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 Rocher De La Vierge. This romantic rock formation offers a unique experience that is highly recommended. Meanwhile, Biarritz Aquarium adds its own distinct charm to your journey. Finish your day with a visit to Isturitz And Oxocelhaya Caves, a visually striking cave system in Bayonne.
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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Le Victor Hugo, an iconic dining spot in Bayonne. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Bar Remy, a popular restaurant in Bayonne. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Restaurant La Grange, a hidden gem nestled in Bayonne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. La Karafe is an excellent place to start.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!
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
Greet day 7 of your road trip in France with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Bayonne for your remaining 1 night in the town later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Bayonne and Bidart.
Start by visiting Bayonne Cathedral, a prime spot to begin your journey. This symbolic church is sure to impress. Next on your list is Basque Museum In Bayonne, another must-visit landmark and increasingly popular museum renowned for its history-steeped features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Bayonne by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Plage De Bidart. This romantic beach is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Le Train De La Rhune also adds charm to your journey, and Caves Of Sare wraps up your day with its picturesque appeal.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Bayonne.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bayonne. 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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Kalostrape, a highly-rated dining destination in Bayonne. If you're eager to try something different, consider La Verbena Les Halles, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bakera. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bayonne this evening.
Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
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
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.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Bayonne today. One of the most intriguing attractions included on the itinerary is Sainte-eugénie Church Of Biarritz. This visually striking church will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Fort Du Socoa and learn what makes this culturally significant castle unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the intriguing The Basque Corniche. After exploring the cliff, head to Abbadia Castle. This curiosity-inducing castle is a highlight in Bayonne. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the intriguing The Bench Berritsu. Enjoy exploring this incredible sightseeing destination at your own pace.
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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Resto Dit Vin, 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 Restaurant L' Ardoise, 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 Little Monkey Bar, a hidden gem nestled in Pau. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Head back to your accommodation in Pau and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!
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.
On your last day in France, take time to indulge in shopping at Pau’s popular marketplace, Quartier du Hédas. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. Browse boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces. Wrap up your shopping with a drink and some pastries at a cozy cafe.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Pau.
Enjoy a lovely meal at m Restaurant, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Maynats is another top choice with a popular menu.
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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