7-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Pau to Tarbes, Carcassonne, Toulouse, and Albi

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Explore the best of France on a 7-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Pau, Lourdes, Aspin-en-Lavedan, Tarbes, Carcassonne, Toulouse, Albi, and Auch. 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 Tarbes, 1 night in Carcassonne, 1 night in Toulouse, and 1 night in Albi. 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 Albi Cathedral are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Basilica Of St. Sernin, learn more about the unique Jardin Des Plantes, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Château Comtal.

As you hit the open road and drive through Pau, Lourdes, Aspin-en-Lavedan, Tarbes, Carcassonne, Toulouse, Albi, and Auch, 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
Parc Beaumont
Sanctuary of Our Lady of LourdesBasilica of Our Lady of the RosaryBasilica of St. Pius Xfuniculaire du pic du JerMassey Garden
Château comtal de CarcassonneCité de CarcassonneMusée de l'EcoleChurch of Saints Nazaire and Celse
Jardin des PlantesMuséum de ToulousePont-NeufCouvent des JacobinsBasilica of St. SerninSquare Charles de Gaulle
Sainte-Cecile Cathedral of AlbiBerbie PalaceMusée Toulouse-LautrecPont VieuxCollégiale Saint-SalvyJardin National
Park CoulouméMusée des JacobinsCathédrale Sainte-Marie
place Clémenceau

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques - Arrival day
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  • Parc Beaumont
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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 Parc Beaumont, or just taking a stroll in the town center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Pau. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Le Henri IV, a top-rated dining destination in Pau. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Le Garage, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Au Fin Gourmet. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Pau this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Snug, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Winfield Café is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, The Galway is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in France!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques
  • Tarbes
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Drive 70 km, 1 hour 43 min

  • Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes
  • Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary
  • Basilica of St. Pius X
  • funiculaire du pic du Jer
  • Massey Garden
  • More

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Lourdes, Aspin-en-Lavedan, and Tarbes, 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 Tarbes. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. Whether you decide to explore Pau on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Sanctuary Of Our Lady Of Lourdes is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this stunning church before continuing your journey. Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Rosary is your next stop. This intriguing church is one of the best-rated sights in Pau.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Basilica Of St. Pius X. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Funiculaire Du Pic Du Jer and Massey Garden.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Tarbes, 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 Tarbes's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

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 3

Day 3

  • Tarbes
  • Carcassonne
  • More

Drive 243 km, 2 hours 39 min

  • Château comtal de Carcassonne
  • Cité de Carcassonne
  • Musée de l'Ecole
  • Church of Saints Nazaire and Celse
  • 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 1 vibrant destinations - Carcassonne. 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.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Tarbes, including a castle, a museum, and a church. Start your day at Château Comtal. This UNESCO world heritage-designated castle is an intriguing place to see in Tarbes. Then, wander over to Cité De Carcassonne. If romantic sites excite you, this castle will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Musée De L'ecole. This eye-catching museum is a favorite among visitors.

Tarbes offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Basilique Saint Nazaire is a frequently visited spot in the town that will captivate you with its unique charm.

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

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 delicious meal at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a highly-rated dining destination in Carcassonne. If you're eager to try something different, consider La Rapière, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Domaine d'Auriac. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Carcassonne this evening.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Carcassonne
  • Toulouse
  • More

Drive 95 km, 1 hour 52 min

  • Jardin des Plantes
  • Muséum de Toulouse
  • Pont-Neuf
  • Couvent des Jacobins
  • Basilica of St. Sernin
  • Square Charles de Gaulle
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Toulouse. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Toulouse, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in Carcassonne. Begin your sightseeing with Jardin Des Plantes. This worthwhile botanical garden is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Muséum De Toulouse, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Carcassonne, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Pont-neuf. This locally appreciated monument is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Couvent Des Jacobins, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Basilica Of St. Sernin is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers. Conclude your day at Square Charles De Gaulle and uncover why it's recognized as one of the city's most increasingly popular attractions.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Toulouse. 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 Toulouse's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurant Le May, a top-rated dining spot in Toulouse. If you're in the mood for something new, try L*Agence, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Le Perche Pinte. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Toulouse.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Moloko is an excellent place to start. You could also check out The Botanist Pub, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Melting Pot Pub. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Toulouse
  • Albi
  • More

Drive 76 km, 1 hour 21 min

  • Sainte-Cecile Cathedral of Albi
  • Berbie Palace
  • Musée Toulouse-Lautrec
  • Pont Vieux
  • Collégiale Saint-Salvy
  • Jardin National
  • 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 Albi. In the evening, you’ll end up in Albi, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Toulouse includes a church, a palace, a museum, a historical landmark, a park and much more! Albi Cathedral is must-visit church and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Berbie Palace, a frequently visited palace, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Musée Toulouse-lautrec, a historic museum, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Toulouse. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the beloved Pont Vieux. If you’re looking for more, Collégiale Saint-salvy (albi) is also an up-and-coming attraction that is worthwhile a visit. Lastly, don’t miss Jardin National, a place of serene interest in the town.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Albi, 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 Albi, 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 meal at O'Sully'S Albi, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight.

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Albi
  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques
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Drive 261 km, 4 hours 6 min

  • Park Couloumé
  • Musée des Jacobins
  • Cathédrale Sainte-Marie
  • More

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Auch. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Pau, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Albi, including a park, a museum, and a church. Start your day with a visit to Park Couloumé. This intriguing park is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Musée Des Jacobins, which may be one of the most photogenic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Albi 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 Cathédrale Sainte-marie, a locally appreciated church in the town.

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

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

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.

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

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques - Departure day
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  • place Clémenceau
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Day 7 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.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Place Clémenceau, a visually striking public square before you head out.

Make the most of your final day in France by visiting Pau’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Centre Bosquet. 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 Pau.

If you're in the mood for something new, try Maynats, another premier location with a delectable 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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