4-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Pau traveling east to Carcassonne
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Description
Explore the best of France on a 4-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Pau, Lourdes, Gez, Carcassonne, and Toulouse. 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 and 1 night in Carcassonne. 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 Jardin Japonais Pierre Baudis 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 Château Comtal, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Animal Park Of The Pyrenees.
As you hit the open road and drive through Pau, Lourdes, Gez, Carcassonne, and Toulouse, 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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Day 1
- Pyrénées-Atlantiques - Arrival day
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Your road trip adventure in France begins as soon as you reach Pau and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Pau for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the town.
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.
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.
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.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Snug, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Winfield Café provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, The Galway offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Raise a toast to the start of your 4-day road trip in France!
Day 2
- Pyrénées-Atlantiques
- Carcassonne
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Drive 329 km, 4 hours 3 min
- Grottes de Bétharram
- Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary
- Animal Park of the Pyrenees
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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 Carcassonne, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, natural wonders, and scenic views. 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. Grottes De Bétharram is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this visually striking cave system before continuing your journey. Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Rosary is your next stop. This worthwhile 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 Animal Park Of The Pyrenees. This visually striking zoo is a sight to behold.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Carcassonne, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
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.
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.
Day 3
- Carcassonne
- Pyrénées-Atlantiques
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Drive 298 km, 3 hours 36 min
- Château comtal de Carcassonne
- Cité de Carcassonne
- Basilica of St. Sernin
- Jardin Japonais Pierre Baudis
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On day 3 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 Pau, where you will stay for 1 night.
A blend of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views await you in Carcassonne on today’s itinerary. First up is the often recommended castle, Château Comtal. Afterward, continue to Cité De Carcassonne, a castle every traveler should visit.
As you explore Carcassonne’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town. Next, make your way to Basilica Of St. Sernin. This locally renowned church is an essential stop. Following that, head to Jardin Japonais Pierre Baudis, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.
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 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.
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 4
- Pyrénées-Atlantiques - Departure day
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Day 4 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.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Pau.
Dine in style at m Restaurant, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Maynats boasts a menu that's sure to impress.
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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