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

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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 7-day road trip through France. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

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, and 2 nights in Bordeaux. 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 Miroir D'eau.

As you hit the open road and drive through Pau, Lourdes, Gez, Carcassonne, Bordeaux, Le Bouscat, and Biarritz, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Grottes de BétharramBasilica of Our Lady of the RosaryPont d'EspagneAnimal Park of the Pyrenees
Cité de CarcassonneChurch of Saints Nazaire and CelseChâteau comtal de CarcassonneSaint Michael of Carcassonne
miroir d'eauplace de la BoursePorte CailhauMonument aux Girondinsjardin public
Parc de Bourranparc bordelaisThe big bell of BordeauxBasilica of St. Michael, BordeauxBordeaux Cathedral
Rocher de la viergeBiarritz AquariumLe Train de La Rhune

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques - Arrival day
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Say hello to Pau! Your exciting road trip through France is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the town. You will stay in Pau for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

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.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Pau. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in France. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the town.

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.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Snug after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Winfield Café for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, The Galway is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques
  • Lourdes
  • More

Drive 119 km, 2 hours 49 min

  • Grottes de Bétharram
  • Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary
  • Pont d'Espagne
  • Animal Park of the Pyrenees
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Lourdes and Gez. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lourdes, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and scenic views in the charming city of Pau. Your adventure starts at Grottes De Bétharram, a beloved local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Rosary. This increasingly popular church is known for its picturesque appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Pau's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Pont D'espagne. This instagrammable waterfall offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Animal Park Of The Pyrenees is also worth visiting.

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

Savor the flavors at Hôtel Roissy, Lourdes, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Grand Hôtel Gallia & Londres Bike & NUXE Spa beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Hôtel Saint-Sébastien. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Lourdes tonight.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Lourdes
  • Carcassonne
  • More

Drive 265 km, 2 hours 54 min

  • Cité de Carcassonne
  • Church of Saints Nazaire and Celse
  • Château comtal de Carcassonne
  • Saint Michael of Carcassonne
  • More

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Carcassonne, 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 1 night.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Cité De Carcassonne. This impressive castle is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Basilique Saint Nazaire, one of the town’s best highlights.

Next, check out Château Comtal, one of the most curiosity-inducing places to see in Lourdes. This castle is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

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 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, La Rapière offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Le Domaine d'Auriac is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Carcassonne.

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 4

Day 4

  • Carcassonne
  • Bordeaux
  • More

Drive 340 km, 3 hours 37 min

  • miroir d'eau
  • place de la Bourse
  • Porte Cailhau
  • Monument aux Girondins
  • jardin public
  • More

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Bordeaux. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bordeaux, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Carcassonne, including an art installation, a public square, a monument, a park and much more! Start your day at Miroir D'eau. This visually striking art installation is an interesting place to see in Carcassonne. Then, wander over to Place De La Bourse. If romantic sites excite you, this public square will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Porte Cailhau. This visually striking monument is a favorite among visitors.

Carcassonne offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Monument Aux Girondins is an underrated spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the monument, don’t forget to check out the romantic Jardin Public. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this well-known park.

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.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Le Cent 33, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, L'Originel is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Le Clemenceau. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bordeaux tonight.

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!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Bordeaux
  • More

Drive 20 km, 1 hour 6 min

  • Parc de Bourran
  • parc bordelais
  • The big bell of Bordeaux
  • Basilica of St. Michael, Bordeaux
  • Bordeaux Cathedral
  • More

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bordeaux, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Le Bouscat and Bordeaux. You still have 1 night left in Bordeaux.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Bordeaux, including a park, a historical landmark, and a church. Start your day at Parc De Bourran. This romantic park is a locally appreciated place to see in Bordeaux. Then, wander over to Parc Bordelais. If eye-catching sites excite you, this park will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find The Big Bell Of Bordeaux. This instagrammable historical landmark is a favorite among visitors.

Bordeaux offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Basilica Of St. Michael, Bordeaux is an underrated spot in the town that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the church, don’t forget to check out the enchanting Bordeaux Cathedral. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this popular church.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at L'Oiseau Bleu, an iconic dining spot in Bordeaux. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurant Soléna, a popular restaurant in Bordeaux. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Hôtel De Sèze, a hidden gem nestled in Bordeaux. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Grizzly Pub provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, The Dog And Duck offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Bordeaux
  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques
  • More

Drive 374 km, 4 hours 40 min

  • Rocher de la vierge
  • Biarritz Aquarium
  • Le Train de La Rhune
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Biarritz and Bayonne. 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.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Bordeaux, including a rock formation, an aquarium, and a heritage railway. Start your day with a visit to Rocher De La Vierge. This locally renowned rock formation is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Biarritz Aquarium, which may be one of the most mesmerizing places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Bordeaux 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 Le Train De La Rhune, a locally renowned heritage railway in the town.

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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Resto Dit Vin, a highly-rated dining destination in Pau. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurant L' Ardoise, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Little Monkey Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Pau this evening.

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

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques - Departure day
  • More

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.

On your last day in France, take time to indulge in shopping at Pau’s popular marketplace, Les Halles de Pau. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

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

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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