6-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bordeaux traveling south to Toulouse and Pau

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Photo of landscape view of Saint Emilion village in Bordeaux region, France.
Photo of Place de la Bourse in Bordeaux, France.
6-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bordeaux traveling south to Toulouse and Pau
6-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bordeaux traveling south to Toulouse and Pau
6-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bordeaux traveling south to Toulouse and Pau
6-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bordeaux traveling south to Toulouse and Pau
6-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bordeaux traveling south to Toulouse and Pau
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Explore the best of France on a remarkable 6-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Bordeaux, Lormont, Le Bouscat, Toulouse, Carcassonne, Blagnac, Pau, and Arcachon.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in France. You will spend 2 nights in Bordeaux, 2 nights in Toulouse, and 1 night in Pau. 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 you covered.

Upon arriving in Bordeaux, 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 Dune Of Pilat are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Bordeaux, Lormont, Le Bouscat, Toulouse, Carcassonne, Blagnac, Pau, and Arcachon, 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, accommodations, 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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Day1

Day 1

  • Bordeaux - Arrival day
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  • Monument aux Girondins
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Welcome to Bordeaux, 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 discovering what to see in Bordeaux before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Bordeaux is a beautiful city 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 Monument Aux Girondins. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

When you're ready for some downtime, make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Bordeaux. Make yourself at home and unwind 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 Bordeaux, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Le Cent 33, a highly-rated dining destination in Bordeaux. If you're eager to try something different, consider L'Originel, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Clemenceau. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bordeaux this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Café Brun, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Le Mushroom Café is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Whose Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

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Day2

Day 2

  • Bordeaux
  • Lormont
  • Le Bouscat
  • Toulouse
  • More

Drive 267 km, 3 hours 18 min

  • place de la Bourse
  • miroir d'eau
  • Cité du Vin
  • parc bordelais
  • More

Your itinerary for day 2 of your road trip in France includes 3 stops and features some of the highlights of Bordeaux, Lormont, and Le Bouscat. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Toulouse, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Place De La Bourse is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This enchanting public square is sure to impress. Next on your list is Miroir D'eau, another must-visit landmark and well-known art installation renowned for its romantic features.

After soaking in Bordeaux’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Lormont. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 9 min. When you arrive in Lormont, it's time to take a break from the road.

La Cité Du Vin is a captivating museum we recommend visiting today. Discover its stunning features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Le Bouscat, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Lormont to Le Bouscat may take around 17 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Le Bouscat, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Parc Bordelais and explore the romantic features.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Toulouse. Toulouse offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Toulouse is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Toulouse.

Discover the culinary delights of Toulouse by securing a reservation at Stéphane Tournié - Les Jardins de l'Opéra. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Py-r, renowned for its delicious modern dishes. This esteemed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Hedone, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering creative menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Moloko, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to The Botanist Pub. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Melting Pot Pub, another top-rated place in the area.

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

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Day3

Day 3

  • Toulouse
  • Carcassonne
  • More

Drive 231 km, 3 hours 12 min

  • Church of Saints Nazaire and Celse
  • Cité de Carcassonne
  • Château et Remparts de la Cité de Carcassonne
  • Château comtal de Carcassonne
  • Grotte de Limousis
  • More

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Toulouse, where you have 1 night left to stay.

Carcassonne’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 9 min. Carcassonne welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Basilique Saint Nazaire, a frequently visited church known for its enchanting features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Cité De Carcassonne, a spectacular castle.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Château Et Remparts De La Cité De Carcassonne and uncover the details of this enchanting castle. Make sure to also explore Château Comtal, a frequently visited castle.

Marmonières’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Carcassonne behind. This drive usually takes around 29 min. Marmonières welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Grotte De Limousis. Spend some time admiring the picturesque features of the cave before you continue to your next stop.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Toulouse's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Make sure to reserve a table at La Faim des Haricots/TOULOUSE CENTRE VILLE, an iconic dining spot in Toulouse. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Madame Bovary, a popular restaurant in Toulouse. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Au Pois Gourmand restaurant gastronomique, a hidden gem nestled in Toulouse. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue your lively evening at Pub O'clock, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. La Loupiote is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Café Populaire ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Head back to your accommodation in Toulouse and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in France.

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Day4

Day 4

  • Toulouse
  • Blagnac
  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques
  • More

Drive 222 km, 2 hours 50 min

  • Square Charles de Gaulle
  • Basilica of St. Sernin
  • Jardin des Plantes
  • Grand Rond
  • Musée Aeroscopia
  • More

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Toulouse and Blagnac. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Pau, where you'll spend 1 night.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the frequently visited Square Charles De Gaulle and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Basilica Of St. Sernin, a symbolic church that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Jardin Des Plantes, one of the city’s most up-and-coming spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the locally appreciated Grand Rond.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Blagnac. This drive usually takes around 20 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Musée Aeroscopia, an underrated aviation museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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.

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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Pau by reserving a table at Jumo & Co. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern cuisine. Looking for something different? Le Garage offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu.

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.

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

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Day5

Day 5

  • Pyrénées-Atlantiques
  • Arcachon
  • Bordeaux
  • More

Drive 308 km, 4 hours 6 min

  • Observatoire Sainte-Cécile
  • Canon du moulleau
  • Dune of Pilat
  • More

On day 5 of your road trip in France, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Arcachon are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bordeaux, where you will stay for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Arcachon. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 41 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Observatoire Sainte-cécile. Spend some time admiring the stunning features of the observation deck before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Canon Du Moulleau. This worthwhile point of interest is a traveler-favorite in the town.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Arcachon, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Pau to Arcachon may take around 2 hours 41 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Arcachon, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Arcachon is Dune Of Pilat, a captivating sand dunes that draws attention for its instagrammable features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bordeaux. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Bordeaux's best restaurants.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Bordeaux by booking a table at Ressources. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining option, venture to Le Pressoir d'Argent - Gordon Ramsay, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover La Grand'Vigne - Les Sources de Caudalie, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux, known for its inviting atmosphere. The Grizzly Pub is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, The Dog And Duck provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day6

Day 6

  • Bordeaux - Departure day
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  • jardin public
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Day 6 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Bordeaux 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 Jardin Public, a serene park before you head out.

For a last-minute shopping spree in Bordeaux, Les Grands Hommes is nearby. Enjoy a variety of retail stores, dining options, and essential services in one convenient location. Browse through boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces to take home. Explore high-end stores offering an exquisite selection of luxury items.

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

You’ll then say farewell to Bordeaux. 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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Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
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Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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