5-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Pau traveling east to Carcassonne
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Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in France as you embark on an unforgettable 5-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Pau, Lourdes, Tarbes, Carcassonne, Toulouse, and Auch.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in France takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 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 Basilica Of St. Sernin are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Château Comtal, learn more about the unique Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Rosary, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Couvent Des Jacobins.
As you hit the open road and drive through Pau, Lourdes, Tarbes, Carcassonne, Toulouse, 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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Day 1
- Pyrénées-Atlantiques - Arrival day
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- Parc Beaumont
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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 2 nights 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 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.
Find your way to your hotel in Pau. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in France. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
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.
Don’t miss out on dining 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 5-day road trip in France!
Day 2
- Pyrénées-Atlantiques
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Drive 112 km, 2 hours 24 min
- Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes
- Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary
- Basilica of St. Pius X
- Château Fort Musée Pyrénéen
- Parc Bel-Air
- Massey Garden
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On day 2 of your road trip in France, you’ll start and end your day in Pau, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the town. Since you will return to Pau for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Lourdes and Tarbes to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots in the charming town of Pau. Your adventure starts at Sanctuary Of Our Lady Of Lourdes, a frequently visited local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Rosary. This beloved church is known for its picture-perfect 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 Basilica Of St. Pius X. Château Fort Musée Pyrénéen is also worth visiting, along with Parc Bel-air. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment. End your day at Massey Garden. This intriguing botanical garden provides a fitting finale to your sightseeing.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Pau.
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.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Resto Dit Vin, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurant L' Ardoise is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Little Monkey Bar. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Pau tonight.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!
Day 3
- Pyrénées-Atlantiques
- Carcassonne
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Drive 289 km, 3 hours 16 min
- Château comtal de Carcassonne
- Saint Michael of Carcassonne
- Church of Saints Nazaire and Celse
- Cité de Carcassonne
- Porte Narbonnaise
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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. In the evening, you’ll end up in Carcassonne, where you will stay for 1 night.
Start your adventure at Château Comtal. This increasingly popular castle is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike.
Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Basilique Saint Nazaire. This curiosity-inducing church offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Cité De Carcassonne, where you can take in symbolic features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Porte Narbonnaise. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Carcassonne. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
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.
Don’t miss out on dining at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a top-rated dining destination in Carcassonne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Rapière, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Domaine d'Auriac. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Carcassonne this evening.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!
Day 4
- Carcassonne
- Pyrénées-Atlantiques
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Drive 276 km, 4 hours 36 min
- Muséum de Toulouse
- Pont-Neuf
- Couvent des Jacobins
- Basilica of St. Sernin
- Park Couloumé
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Toulouse and Auch. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Pau, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. Whether you decide to explore Carcassonne on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Muséum De Toulouse is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this visually striking museum before continuing your journey. Pont-neuf is your next stop. This underrated monument is one of the best-rated sights in Carcassonne.
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 Couvent Des Jacobins. This breathtaking monastery is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Basilica Of St. Sernin and Park Couloumé.
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 are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Pau. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at m Restaurant, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Maynats? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Le Café du Passage as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Pau.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!
Day 5
- Pyrénées-Atlantiques - Departure day
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- place Clémenceau
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Day 5 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 standout public square before you head out.
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.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Ô PETIT PAÙ, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, L'Imparfait is another top choice with a popular 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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