5-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Pau to Toulouse

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 still have 1 night to spend in Pau, there’s no need to rush. Experience Lourdes and Tarbes to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Whether you decide to explore Lourdes on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

When you’ve had your share of Pau, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Lourdes. Your travel time is around 47 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Lourdes is Sanctuary Of Our Lady Of Lourdes, an increasingly popular church that draws attention for its stunning features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Rosary, an instagrammable church that stands out in the town.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Basilica Of St. Pius X, a curiosity-inducing minor basilica that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Château Fort Musée Pyrénéen, a nearby museum, highly recommended by other travelers.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Lourdes and set your GPS to Tarbes. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 25 min. Upon reaching Tarbes, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Parc Bel-air, an up-and-coming park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Massey Garden and admire its instagrammable features.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Resto Dit Vin, a top-rated dining spot in Pau. If you're in the mood for something new, try Restaurant L' Ardoise, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Little Monkey Bar. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Pau.

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Carcassonne. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Toulouse, where you'll spend 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Pau, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Carcassonne. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 49 min.

Savor the day by heading to Château Comtal, a frequently visited castle that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Porte Narbonnaise, where you can soak in the historic surroundings.

Next, explore Cité De Carcassonne, yet another top-rated place to see in the area. After the castle, make time to go to Basilique Saint Nazaire. This grand church is well worth the visit. Lastly, head to Église Saint-vincent De Carcassonne, a frequently visited church you won’t want to miss.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Toulouse, 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 Toulouse's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurant Le May, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, L*Agence offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Le Perche Pinte is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Toulouse.

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

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

Your itinerary for day 4 of your road trip in France includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Toulouse and Auch. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Pau, where you'll spend 1 night.

Catch Place Saint-pierre before the crowds roll in. This romantic public square is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the grand features of Basilica Of St. Sernin, a must-visit church in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Pont-neuf, a beloved monument. For a change of scene, check out Muséum De Toulouse, known for its standout features. We also recommend visiting Jardin Des Plantes. This botanical garden is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.

Auch’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Toulouse behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 22 min. Auch welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the day by heading to Cathédrale Sainte-marie, an up-and-coming church that draws visitors from near and far.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at m Restaurant, 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 Maynats, 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 Le Café du Passage, a hidden gem nestled in Pau. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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