Pau - Discovering France

Travelling to Pau

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Pau, a pretty good destination in France (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Pau and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Pau, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through France, here's everything to know about Pau for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Pau

Pau is a city located in the southwestern part of France in the region of Nouvelle-Aquitaine. It is the capital of the Pyrénées-Atlantiques department and has a population of approximately 77,000 people. Pau is known for its mild climate, beautiful architecture, and historical heritage. It is home to a number of notable landmarks, including King Henry IV's castle, which dates back to the 14th century, and the Boulevard des Pyrénées, which offers stunning panoramic views of the mountains. Pau is also famous for its horse racing, with the world-renowned Grand Prix de Pau taking place each May.

What to visit in Pau

Sure, here are some popular tourist attractions in Pau along with some information: 1. Chateau de Pau: This historic castle was once the birthplace of King Henry IV of France and is now a national museum. Visitors can explore the castle's many halls and rooms, including the King's Chamber and the Grand Salon. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online.
2. Boulevard des Pyrenees: This scenic boulevard boasts stunning views of the Pyrenees and the city of Pau. There are also several benches and picnic tables where visitors can relax and take in the scenery.
3. Musee des Beaux-Arts: This museum contains a diverse collection of art and artifacts from around the world. Some notable exhibits include paintings by El Greco, Francisco Goya, and Eugene Delacroix.
4. Cathedrale Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption: This beautiful cathedral is located in the heart of Pau and features stunning Gothic architecture. Visitors can attend mass or take a guided tour of the cathedral.
5. Parc Beaumont: This public park is a popular spot for picnics, sports, and outdoor activities. The park features a lake, a children's play area, and several walking and biking paths.
6. Quartier du Chateau: This historic neighborhood is filled with narrow streets, shops, and cafes. Visitors can wander the streets and admire the architecture of the old buildings.
7. Palais Beaumont: This palace was once the summer residence of Napoleon III and is now a conference center. Visitors can tour the palace and attend events and exhibitions.
8. Les Halles de Pau: This covered market is a great place to sample local cuisine and buy fresh produce, meats, and cheeses. The market is open daily and features dozens of vendors. Overall, Pau offers visitors a variety of attractions that showcase its rich history and natural beauty.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in France, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Pau.

When to go on holiday to Pau

The best time to visit Pau, France is during the summer months of June to September as the weather is warm and pleasant with average temperatures ranging between 20°C to 27°C. This is also the peak tourist season in Pau when the city comes alive with various cultural events and festivals.
However, if you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices, you may consider visiting Pau during the shoulder season in May or October when the weather is still mild and comfortable. The winter months of December to February are usually the coldest and least popular for tourists, but there are seasonal activities such as skiing in the nearby Pyrenees mountains.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Pau

There are different ways to get to Pau, depending on where you are coming from and your preferred mode of transportation: - By plane: Pau Pyrénées Airport is located about 10 km from the city center and offers flights to several destinations in France and Europe. From the airport, you can take a taxi, rent a car or take the shuttle bus to get to Pau.
- By train: Pau has its own train station (Gare de Pau) which is served by regional and national trains. From Paris, there are several direct trains per day (including high-speed TGV trains) that take about 5 hours.
- By car: Pau is located about 200 km from Bordeaux and about 150 km from Toulouse, both of which are major cities with good road connections. From the north, you can take the A65 motorway which links Bordeaux to Pau, while from the south you can take the A64 motorway which links Toulouse to Pau.
- By bus: there are several bus companies that operate services to Pau from other cities in France and Spain. Eurolines, Ouibus and Flixbus are some of the operators.
I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Pau!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Pau, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Pau

Here are some typical foods of Pau, France: 1. Garbure: A hearty soup made with ham, cabbage, white beans, and vegetables.
2. Jurançon wine: A sweet white wine made from grapes grown in the Jurançon region near Pau.
3. Poule au pot: A classic French dish of boiled chicken, vegetables, and sometimes stuffed with foie gras.
4. Piquillos de Pau peppers: These small red peppers are often stuffed with goat cheese or other fillings and are a popular appetizer in Pau.
5. Axoa: A traditional Basque dish made of minced veal or beef simmered with onions, peppers, and Espelette pepper.
6. Mille-feuille: A classic French pastry made of layers of puff pastry and cream, often filled with fruit.
7. Gateau Basque: A cake originating in the Basque region, with a buttery, crumbly texture and a filling of either cherry jam or almond cream.
8. Fromage de brebis: A type of cheese made from sheep's milk that is a specialty of the Pyrenees region, where Pau is located.
You can find general info about typical foods in France here.

Is Pau an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other popular tourist destinations in France, Pau can be considered a relatively affordable destination. However, it ultimately depends on your budget and what you consider expensive. Generally, accommodation, food, and transportation costs in Pau are lower than in cities like Paris or Nice. That being said, prices may increase during peak tourist seasons, so it's a good idea to research and compare prices beforehand to ensure you stay within your budget.

Where to find accomodation in Pau

The best areas to find accommodation in Pau, France are the city center, Boulevard des Pyrénées, Quartier du Château, Place Royale, and Rue Joffre. These areas offer easy access to the city's main attractions, restaurants, shopping centers, and public transportation. Additionally, some of them offer stunning views of the Pyrenees mountains.
You can check hotel prices at Pau here:
Booking.com

Is Pau a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Pau is generally a safe place for tourists. However, as with any city, it is important to take the usual precautions to keep yourself and your belongings safe. This includes being aware of your surroundings, especially at night or in unfamiliar areas, and keeping valuables secure. It is also a good idea to stay in well-lit and populated areas and to avoid walking alone at night. Overall, Pau is a charming and pleasant town to visit and is welcoming to tourists.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in France here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Pau.

What type of travelers will enjoy Pau the most?

Pau, France is a versatile destination that offers something for everyone, but it is particularly well-suited to couples and families. Here are some reasons why: Couples: - Pau has a rich history and a charming old town that is ideal for romantic strolls.
- The town is surrounded by majestic mountains and lush greenery, offering scenic views for couples to enjoy. - Pau also features many restaurants and cafes that offer delicious food and wine, perfect for a romantic dinner or lunch.
Families: - Kids will love exploring the Chateau de Pau, a historic castle that is now a museum. - There are many parks and gardens in Pau that offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun and games.
- The Pyrénées National Park is located near Pau and it's a great place for a family hike or bike ride.
- The town offers kid-friendly activities, such as the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Pau, a museum with a collection of artwork from the 14th to the 21st century.
While Pau may not be known as a destination for young people looking for nightlife, there are still options available such as bars and pubs in the old town. Overall, Pau is a great destination for couples and families who want to experience the beauty and history of southern France.

How to get around Pau

In Pau, you can use buses, trams, bicycles, and taxis to move around the city. The local public transportation system is called IDELIS, and it offers regular bus and tram services around the city. There are also several cycling routes and bicycle rental services available throughout Pau. Taxis are also available for hire and can be found at designated taxi ranks throughout the city.

What to see around Pau

Sure, here are a few options for day trips from Pau: 1. Lourdes: a world-renowned pilgrimage site, Lourdes is just 45 minutes from Pau and boasts a beautiful basilica, stunning mountain scenery, and plenty of history.
2. Cauterets: a picturesque town in the Pyrenees, just over an hour from Pau, with natural spas, hiking trails, and beautiful waterfalls.
3. Tarbes: a charming town just 30 minutes from Pau, with a stunning cathedral and traditional markets.
4. Biarritz: a chic seaside town on the coast of the Basque Country, about 2 hours from Pau, known for its stunning beaches and surf culture.
5. Saint-Jean-de-Luz: another coastal town in the Basque Country, just under 2 hours from Pau, with a beautiful harbor, quaint old town, and lovely beaches. I hope this helps!
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