Cheap 9-Day France Road Trip from Bayonne traveling east to Pau, Carcassonne, Toulouse, Albi, and Bordeaux

Your exciting road trip through France starts when you reach the incredible town of Bayonne, where you'll stay for 1 night. You'll pick up your rental car in Bayonne and begin your adventure in France.

Bayonne is a popular cheap holiday destination in France with something to offer every traveler. More than a town in France, Bayonne is also a great place to find top-rated budget accommodations. You’ll find many of these accommodations close to bustling markets and cultural attractions.

Kick off the day at Château-vieux - Gaztelu Zaharra, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 457 reviews.

When it's time to eat or savor a refreshing drink, treat yourself to a delightful dining and drinking experience without paying more than necessary. Bayonne has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to JANINE, known for its delectable cuisine and inviting ambiance. While immersing yourself in the local culture during your budget-friendly getaway, make sure to stop by Le Victor Hugo - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Restaurant La Grange promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

Visit Dame Jeanne, one of the locals’ favorite hangout spots. Café Des Pyrénées serves various snacks and drinks at affordable prices, making it another great bar option for budget travelers in Bayonne. And if you're looking for a special place to enjoy the evening, our recommendation is Kubata & Kukubat.

Enjoy toasting the start of a terrific road trip vacation and a cheap holiday experience in France!

Day 2 of your self-drive vacation in France will take you to the town of Pau, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Pau, you'll explore 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in France, including Biarritz, Saint Jean De Luz, and Bayonne.

When you’ve had your share of Bayonne, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Biarritz. Your travel time is around 14 min.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Chambre D'amour Playground. Previous visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,662 reviews.

Rocher De La Vierge is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This rock is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 14,700 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Biarritz Aquarium. This aquarium is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 13,072 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Biarritz, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Saint Jean De Luz. This drive usually takes around 30 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Fort Du Socoa. This much-appreciated fortress is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 4,851 reviews.

While exploring France is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Pau has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Pau on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the town.

When it's time to eat or savor a refreshing drink, treat yourself to a delightful dining and drinking experience without paying more than necessary. Pau has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at Le Henri IV, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Le Garage is another must-visit dining spot.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Snug, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Winfield Café. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at The Galway, another top-rated place in the area.

Cherish every minute of your road trip vacation across France. Celebrate this opportunity to enjoy a cheap holiday in France!

On day 3 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across France, you’ll experience 2 charming destinations — Lourdes, and Aspin-en-Lavedan. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the town of Carcassonne, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Lourdes’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Pau behind. This drive usually takes around 35 min. Lourdes welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you're ready to see some sights, Grottes De Bétharram is a great place to start. This show cave is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,262 visitors.

Lourdes’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Lourdes behind. This drive usually takes around 16 min. Lourdes welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Rosary. This church is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 6,163 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Basilica Of St. Pius X. This minor basilica has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,690 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Lourdes, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Aspin-en-Lavedan. Your travel time is around 9 min.

Journey into the unknown at Funiculaire Du Pic Du Jer, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable funicular has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,493 reviews.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the town of Carcassonne. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Carcassonne, relax and restore your energy at your preferred affordable place to stay.

Discovering the culinary wonders of Carcassonne is a must-do on your budget-friendly vacation! When hunger strikes, make your way to one of the city's top dining spots.

Brasserie a 4 Temps offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to La Rapière.

A road trip vacation in Lourdes can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in this cheap holiday destination in France!

Day 4 of your road trip across France offers you the chance to visit 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Carcassonne, Narbonne, and Gruissan. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Toulouse, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Château Comtal. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 8,823 visitors.

When you’re finished at Château Comtal, head to Cité De Carcassonne. This one-of-a-kind fortress is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 76,968 reviews.

Set your GPS to Narbonne and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 1 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Narbonne beckons with new experiences!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Réserve Africaine De Sigean. This extraordinary zoo is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 18,879 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Gruissan. This drive usually takes around 34 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Kick off the day at Le Salin De L'île Saint-martin De Gruissan, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,758 reviews.

Toulouse offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in France. Whether you're in need of a quick break from your activities or seeking a comfortable place to rest, rest assured you'll find a welcoming and affordable option in the city.

Indulge in the culinary wonders of Toulouse, where exceptional dining and drinking experiences await at unbeatable prices. Explore the city's diverse venues, ensuring a memorable culinary journey for every visitor.

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

Raise your glass to celebrate your fun and affordable travel experience in the city of Toulouse!

Day 5 of your road trip across France is another proof that cheap holidays in France can indeed provide you an extraordinary travel experience. Today's agenda includes touring 2 wonderful destinations — Toulouse, and Blagnac. You’ll explore along your route leading to the town of Albi, where you'll be spending 1 night.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Basilica Of St. Sernin. This minor basilica is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 11,287 reviews.

Continue your journey at Place Saint-pierre. This sightseeing destination is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 5,139 travelers from near and far.

Toulouse is also the home of Pont-neuf. This deck arch bridge has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,845 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Jardin Des Plantes. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 9,847 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

When you’ve had your share of Toulouse, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Blagnac. Your travel time is around 22 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Musée Aeroscopia. This museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 9,683 visitors.

While exploring France is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Albi has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Albi on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the town.

A cheap, budget vacation in Albi should not stop you from enjoying incredible food and refreshing drinks. When you're ready for the best dining and bar experiences in Albi, try some of our top recommendations.

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular O'Sully'S Albi, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers.

Cheers for an adventure-filled road trip vacation in France! Celebrate this incredible opportunity for an affordable travel experience in the town of Albi!

On day 6 of your cheap holiday travels in France, you’ll tour 3 destinations: Albi, Gaillac, and Montauban. You'll stay in Bordeaux for 2 nights, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Albi Cathedral. This extraordinary catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,049 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Gaillac. This car ride takes around 21 min.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Parc De Foucaud, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,424 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Parc Du Chateau De Foucaud Manège Belle Epoque. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,433 travelers.

After soaking in Gaillac’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Montauban. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 50 min. When you arrive in Montauban, it's time to take a break from the road.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Place Nationale. This square is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Montauban, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,209 visitors.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Bordeaux. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Bordeaux, relax and restore your energy at your preferred affordable place to stay.

As this day progresses, satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst at one of the city's best restaurants and bars. Many restaurants in Bordeaux offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in France.

Indulge in a delightful array of mouthwatering options.

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

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through France with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in France!

Day 7 of your exciting road trip across France is proof that there's more to this country than meets the eye. Today's agenda is to explore Bordeaux and its neighboring areas. Expect amazing attractions, a great dining experience, and a wonderful time discovering the daily lives of locals with 1 night left in Bordeaux.

Kick off the day at Jardin Public, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This urban park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 12,341 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Monument Aux Girondins. Monument Aux Girondins is a column with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,483 reviews.

Place De La Bourse is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 16,251 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Miroir D'eau. This reflecting pool is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 14,462 visitors.

Set your GPS to Lormont and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 9 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Lormont beckons with new experiences!

Journey into the unknown at La Cité Du Vin, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable museum has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 21,487 reviews.

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

Discovering the culinary wonders of Bordeaux is a must-do on your budget-friendly vacation! When hunger strikes, make your way to one of the city's top dining spots.

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Restaurant Soléna, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Hôtel De Sèze is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Locadillos.

If you’re not ready to call it a day, pop into Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux, considered one of the best bars in Bordeaux. You can also enjoy drinks at The Grizzly Pub, known for its fun atmosphere. Alternatively, go to The Dog And Duck, a favorite spot for both tourists and residents of Bordeaux.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in France!

Day 8 of your self-drive vacation in France will take you to the town of Bayonne, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Bayonne, you'll explore 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in France, including Bordeaux, Le Bouscat, and Arcachon.

Drop by the renowned Bordeaux Cathedral. This popular catholic cathedral has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 10,591 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is The Big Bell Of Bordeaux. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,871 visitors, this bell tower deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Porte De Bourgogne. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 5,953 reviews.

When you arrive in Le Bouscat, it's time to take a break from the road.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Parc Bordelais. This urban park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Le Bouscat, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,855 visitors.

Set your GPS to Arcachon and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 1 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Arcachon beckons with new experiences!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Dune Of Pilat. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 35,111 reviews.

Bayonne offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in France. Whether you're in need of a quick break from your activities or seeking a comfortable place to rest, rest assured you'll find a welcoming and affordable option in the town.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Bayonne, where top-quality dining experiences blend seamlessly with budget-friendly options. Check out the town's best restaurant and bar options, offering a tantalizing array of flavors to satisfy every palate. Whether you're in the mood for a casual bite or a refreshing cocktail, these spots have something for everyone.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Kalostrape, known for its delectable cuisine and inviting ambiance. While immersing yourself in the local culture during your budget-friendly getaway, make sure to stop by La Verbena Les Halles - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Bakera promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at La Karafe after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in France!

Your budget road trip vacation in France is about to end. Day 9 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Bayonne.

Make the most of your final day in France by visiting Bayonne’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in France.

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

As you prepare to bid farewell to Bayonne, why not indulge in one last culinary delight at Le Bistrot Itsaski, where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, Au p'ti bistro features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion. For those seeking a taste of flavorful delights, Katie Daly's Irish Pub is a highly recommended spot.

You’ll then say farewell to Bayonne. 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!