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

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Photo of a bridge over river Gave de Pau in Orthez and Pic du midi Ossau ,France.
Photo of Pau in Pyrénées- Atlantiques, France.
Photo of Vineyard of the Jurancon wine in the French Pyrenees, Pau city.
Photo of Paroisse Eglise Saint Martin aerial panoramic view, a catholic church in Pau city in France.
Photo of public garden Beaumont has walking trails and plenty of open space in the French city Pau.
Photo of Chateau de Pau is a castle in the centre of Pau city in France.
Photo of Pau funicular in France at sunset.
Photo of famous Funicular, a cable train connecting the upper and lower town of Pau in the south of France.
Photo of old town of Carcassonne and pont vieux in France.
Photo of chateau comtal in Carcassonne, France.
Photo of the Gambetta square in Carcassonne, France.
Photo of landscape with Carcassonne castle, France.
Photo of Carcassonne biggest medieval castle and walled town in Europe, France.
Photo of happy woman visiting Castle of Carcassonne in France.
Photo of old town of Carcassonne and pont vieux in France.
Photo of two children looking at beautiful castle of Carcassonne in France.
Photo of Carcassonne a fortified French town in the Aude department, Carcassonne, France.
Photo of aerial view of Carcassonne, France.
Photo of aerial view of Carcassonne, France.
Photo of Cité de Carcassonne ,France.
Photo of landscape view of Saint Emilion village in Bordeaux region, France.
Photo of Place de la Bourse in Bordeaux, France.
Photo of Chateau and vineyard in Margaux, Bordeaux, France.
Photo of vineyards of Saint Emilion village in Bordeaux region, France.
Photo of colored trees and footbridge of the Jardin Public park in Autumn in Bordeaux, France.
Photo of woman enjoying Saint Emilion village in green vineyard, Bordeaux in France.
Photo of Pont de pierre at sunset in the famous winery region Bordeaux, France.
Photo of tourist standing back in front of the famous bell tower in Bordeaux city in France.
Photo of National Opera of Bordeaux ,France.
View on the small square with bicycles in Bordeaux city in France
Photo of basilique Saint-Michel de Bordeaux, France.
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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 6-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, 2 nights in Carcassonne, and 1 night 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 Miroir D'eau, learn more about the unique Jardin Public, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Bordeaux Cathedral.

As you hit the open road and drive through Pau, Lourdes, Gez, Carcassonne, Lastours, Bordeaux, and Le Bouscat, 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 RosaryAnimal Park of the Pyrenees
Cité de CarcassonneChurch of Saints Nazaire and CelseChâteau comtal de CarcassonneLes Quatre Châteaux de Lastours
Basilica of St. Michael, BordeauxThe big bell of BordeauxBordeaux Cathedralparc bordelais
jardin publicMonument aux GirondinsPorte Cailhaumiroir d'eauplace de la Bourse

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques - Arrival day
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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 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Le Henri IV, 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 Le Garage, 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 Au Fin Gourmet, a hidden gem nestled in Pau. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Snug offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Winfield Café is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. The Galway is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in France!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques
  • Carcassonne
  • More

Drive 329 km, 4 hours 3 min

  • Grottes de Bétharram
  • Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary
  • Animal Park of the Pyrenees
  • More

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

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Pau allows for both. Start by heading to Grottes De Bétharram. This curiosity-inducing cave system provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Rosary, a culturally significant church, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Animal Park Of The Pyrenees, a curiosity-inducing zoo.

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 you explore more of Carcassonne, 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 delicious meal 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.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Carcassonne
  • More

Drive 42 km, 1 hour 6 min

  • Cité de Carcassonne
  • Church of Saints Nazaire and Celse
  • Château comtal de Carcassonne
  • Les Quatre Châteaux de Lastours
  • More

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Carcassonne, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Carcassonne allows for both. Start by heading to Cité De Carcassonne. This widely recognized castle provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Basilique Saint Nazaire, a history-steeped church, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Château Comtal, an intriguing castle. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the locally appreciated Les Quatre Châteaux De Lastours.

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

As you explore more of Carcassonne, 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 V and B Carcassonne, 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 Auberge des Lices, 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 Adélaïde, a hidden gem nestled in Carcassonne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Carcassonne
  • Bordeaux
  • More

Drive 341 km, 3 hours 42 min

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

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.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Start at the often recommended Basilica Of St. Michael, Bordeaux, a historic church in Carcassonne. Next, go to The Big Bell Of Bordeaux.

After visiting Basilica Of St. Michael, Bordeaux and The Big Bell Of Bordeaux, have a stroll along Carcassonne's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Bordeaux Cathedral. This history-steeped church offers a unique experience. Parc Bordelais is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Bordeaux. Bordeaux 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 Bordeaux. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Savor the flavors at Le Cent 33, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, L'Originel beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Le Clemenceau. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bordeaux tonight.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Café Brun stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Le Mushroom Café offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Whose Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Bordeaux
  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques
  • More

Drive 221 km, 2 hours 31 min

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Bordeaux. 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, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Whether you decide to explore Bordeaux on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Jardin Public is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this eye-catching park before continuing your journey. Monument Aux Girondins is your next stop. This beloved monument is one of the best-rated sights in Bordeaux.

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 Porte Cailhau. This romantic monument is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Miroir D'eau and Place De La Bourse.

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 lovely dining experience at Resto Dit Vin, a popular restaurant in Pau. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Pau at Restaurant L' Ardoise, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Little Monkey Bar. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Pau tonight.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques - Departure day
  • More

Day 6 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.

Maximize your last day in France and go on a shopping spree in Pau’s shopping center, the lively Centre Bosquet. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey 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 eager to try something different, consider Maynats, another top spot with a tantalizing 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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