6-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Pau to Carcassonne and Bordeaux and surrounding area

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 Carcassonne. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Lourdes allows for both.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Pau, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Lourdes. This drive usually takes around 35 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Head to Grottes De Bétharram, a curiosity-inducing cave system in Lourdes. Explore its picturesque features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

After soaking in Lourdes’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Lourdes. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 16 min. When you arrive in Lourdes, it's time to take a break from the road.

Your self-guided tour starts at Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Rosary, a frequently visited church that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

Set your GPS to Gez and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 21 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Gez beckons with new experiences!

Take your self-guided tour to Animal Park Of The Pyrenees, a worthwhile zoo that everyone visiting Gez should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Carcassonne. Carcassonne offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Brasserie a 4 Temps, an iconic dining spot in Carcassonne. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of La Rapière, a popular restaurant in Carcassonne. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Le Domaine d'Auriac, a hidden gem nestled in Carcassonne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Greet day 3 of your road trip in France with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Carcassonne 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 Carcassonne and Lastours.

Start by visiting Cité De Carcassonne, a prime spot to begin your journey. This UNESCO world heritage-designated castle is sure to impress. Next on your list is Basilique Saint Nazaire, another must-visit landmark and frequently visited church renowned for its enchanting features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Carcassonne by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Château Comtal. This majestic castle is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience.

After soaking in Carcassonne’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Lastours. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 25 min. When you arrive in Lastours, it's time to take a break from the road.

Your self-guided tour starts at Les Quatre Châteaux De Lastours, an underrated castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at V and B Carcassonne, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Auberge des Lices offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Adélaïde is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Carcassonne.

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

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 Bordeaux and Le Bouscat. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bordeaux, where you will stay for 1 night.

Bordeaux’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Carcassonne behind. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 10 min. Bordeaux welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Basilica Of St. Michael, Bordeaux, a curiosity-inducing church known for its historic features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to The Big Bell Of Bordeaux, a locally appreciated historical landmark that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region. Next, stop by Bordeaux Cathedral and uncover the details of this visually striking church.

Upon your arrival in Le Bouscat, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Spend your afternoon discovering Parc Bordelais, an increasingly popular park known for its eye-catching features.

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.

Dine in style at Le Cent 33, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, L'Originel boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Le Clemenceau. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bordeaux.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Café Brun, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Le Mushroom Café, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Whose Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Bordeaux. 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.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Bordeaux, featuring a romantic, an idyllic, a gorgeous, an eye-catching, a remarkable, a historic, a grand, and an UNESCO world heritage-designated. Start at Jardin Public, a captivating park in the city. Then, head to Monument Aux Girondins and soak in the ambiance of this detailed monument.

There are many interesting places to see in Bordeaux and when you are ready for more, go to Porte Cailhau. This is one of the city’s most increasingly popular spots. After exploring the monument, visit the interesting Miroir D'eau. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to the captivating Place De La Bourse, a captivating public square in the city.

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.

As you explore more of Pau, 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Resto Dit Vin, a top-rated dining destination in Pau. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant L' Ardoise, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Little Monkey Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Pau this evening.

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