Bonjour Pau: The Ultimate 4-Day Budget Adventure!

Pau, the perfect playground for budget-savvy explorers embracing France's charm without breaking the bank.

29 August 2023

Embarking on a trip to Pau, France on a limited budget allows for an exploration of its charming architecture, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes. From the stunning Château de Pau to the picturesque Boulevard des Pyrénées offering panoramic views of the Pyrenees mountains, there are numerous affordable or free attractions to enjoy. By opting for budget-friendly accommodations, delicious local meals, and taking advantage of public transportation, a fulfilling trip to Pau is within reach for those looking to explore this delightful French town without breaking the bank.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Bonjour Pau!

  • Check into Hotel Montilleul, a quaint budget option in the city center with cozy rooms and friendly staff.
  • Start your day with a caffeine fix at Café des Arts, a bohemian hotspot bursting with avant-garde art and delicious pastries.
  • Immerse yourself in history with a visit to Château de Pau, a majestic castle where Henri IV was born. Don't forget to snap a regal selfie!
  • Stroll along Boulevard des Pyrénées, a picturesque promenade showcasing panoramic views of the snow-capped Pyrénées Mountains.
  • Refuel at Chez Olive, a local gem serving scrumptious Basque cuisine. Try their mouthwatering piperade, a traditional pepper and tomato stew.
Day 2

Pau's Hidden Gems

  • Indulge in a French breakfast at the charming Le Café de l'Europe, known for its divine croissants and strong espresso.
  • Discover the peaceful Parc Beaumont, a verdant oasis dotted with exotic trees, a charming lake, and even a vintage carousel.
  • Unleash your inner art aficionado at Musée des Beaux-Arts, housing an impressive collection of European paintings from the Renaissance to Impressionism.
  • Enjoy a budget-friendly lunch at La Bizantine, a cozy bistro offering delectable regional dishes without breaking the bank.
  • Explore Quartier du Hédas, a bohemian district tucked away from the tourist crowds, boasting quirky shops, colorful street art, and cozy cafés.
Day 3

Journey to the Pyrénées

  • Rise and shine early to catch the train to Gare de Pau, a quaint station with vintage charm.
  • Embark on an unforgettable day trip to Gavarnie, a postcard-perfect village nestled in the heart of the Pyrénées National Park.
  • Hike through dramatic landscapes to marvel at Cirque de Gavarnie, an awe-inspiring natural amphitheater crowned by Europe's highest waterfall.
  • Savor a rustic picnic in the midst of breathtaking nature or indulge in local specialties at a charming mountain restaurant.
  • Return to Pau and treat yourself to a well-deserved dinner at L'Auberge des Deux Ponts, a rustic eatery offering traditional Pyrénéan cuisine.
Day 4

Local Flavors Farewell

  • Start your final day in Pau with a rich café au lait and freshly baked baguette at Boulangerie Rossignon, a family-owned bakery.
  • Visit the vibrant Marché du Hédas, a lively market where you can browse stalls brimming with local produce, honey, cheeses, and artisanal crafts.
  • Discover the quirky art installations of the Le Musée de la Rue, a unique open-air museum bringing contemporary art to the streets of Pau.
  • Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Le Sully, a cozy crêperie offering a variety of mouthwatering sweet and savory galettes.
  • End your Pau adventure on a sweet note at Maison Cazaux, a legendary chocolatier renowned for their decadent homemade pralines.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Pau, France by plane is to fly into Pau Pyrénées Airport (PUF) which is located approximately 10 kilometers northwest of the city center.

Car

To reach Pau, France by car, you can take the A64 motorway which connects the city to major nearby cities like Toulouse and Bayonne. Pau has good road infrastructure, and there are parking facilities available in the city center.

Train

While there is no direct train route to Pau, France, you can take a train to Pau by first traveling to Toulouse or Bordeaux and then transferring to a regional train that will take you to Pau.

Boat

Pau is not accessible by boat as it is located inland and does not have a river or sea port. Therefore, traveling by boat is not a possible option for reaching Pau, France.

Bus

To get to Pau, France by bus, you can take a coach from major cities like Paris, Bordeaux, or Toulouse. The bus will drop you off at Pau Bus Station, conveniently located in the city center.

Destination

Pau

Welcome to the city where croissants and berets are as essential as oxygen masks on airplanes. Pau, a place where wine flows like water, and even the pigeons are trained in the art of nonchalant sophistication.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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