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Pau Travel Guide

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Introduction

General Information

Pau is an elegant city located at the foot of the Pyrenees in southwestern France. Known for its aristocratic charm, stunning mountain views, and relaxed atmosphere, it perfectly blends history, culture, and nature. Once a favorite destination of European nobility, Pau still preserves its Belle Époque elegance with grand palaces, lush gardens, and a gentle pace of life. Today, it’s a vibrant city ideal for strolling, enjoying fine cuisine, and exploring the beauty of the Béarn region.

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY: Essential numbers to save If you have an emergency in France, remember these numbers:

112 – European emergency number (ambulance, fire brigade, and police). Free from any phone.

15 – Medical emergencies (SAMU).

17 – Police.

18 – Fire brigade.

114 – Text or internet emergency service for people with hearing or speech impairments.

Airport Transfers

🚆 Transport Tips for Pau 🚆 Train – Fast and Convenient

Pau Train Station (Gare de Pau) is well-connected to major French cities. High-speed TGV trains link Pau to Paris (in about 4.5 hours), Bordeaux, and Toulouse. Regional trains (TER Nouvelle-Aquitaine) also serve destinations like Bayonne, Tarbes, and Oloron-Sainte-Marie.

🚌 Buses & Local Transport

The IDELIS network operates frequent and affordable routes across the city and nearby towns. A single ticket costs €1.30 and is valid for one hour of travel, including transfers. Tickets can be purchased directly on the bus or via the IDELIS app.

🚕 Taxi & Ride Services

Taxis are available at the train station and in the city center. Ride-hailing services like Bolt, Heetch, and Uber also operate in Pau. A trip from the station to the city center costs about €8–10, and to the airport around €25–30.

🚗 Car Rental

Companies such as Europcar, Hertz, and Avis have offices both at the train station and Pau-Pyrénées Airport (PUF). Renting a car is the best way to explore the Pyrenees, the Béarn wine routes, or nearby towns like Lourdes and Oloron-Sainte-Marie.

✈️ Airport

Pau-Pyrénées Airport is located about 10 km from the city center. It offers regular flights to Paris-Orly, Lyon, Marseille, and London. You can reach the city by taxi or bus in around 20 minutes.

How to Get Around the City?

🌟 10 Must-See Experiences in Pau 1. Château de Pau 🏰

The birthplace of King Henry IV, this medieval castle houses a national museum filled with tapestries, period furniture, and historical artifacts. Its gardens offer magnificent views of the Pyrenees.

2. Boulevard des Pyrénées 🌄

A scenic promenade stretching over one kilometer, offering breathtaking mountain views. Perfect for a walk, a coffee stop, or simply admiring the landscape.

3. Pau Funicular 🚠

Opened in 1908, this charming free funicular connects the train station to the city center, offering great views along the way.

4. Beaumont Park 🌳

A peaceful green park in the heart of the city, with ponds, walking paths, and a small theater. Ideal for a picnic or an afternoon break.

5. Museum of Fine Arts 🎨

Home to an impressive collection of art from the Renaissance to the 20th century, including works by Degas, El Greco, and Rubens.

6. Congress Palace & Casino 🏛️

Located next to Beaumont Park, this elegant Belle Époque building hosts cultural events, concerts, and exhibitions throughout the year.

7. Covered Market (Marché Couvert) 🍷

A paradise for food lovers. Taste local cheeses, foie gras, Béarn wines, and regional specialties in this lively indoor market.

8. Pau Racecourse 🐎

Founded in 1842, it’s one of France’s oldest racecourses. From December to February, it hosts major horse racing events and equestrian shows.

9. Ossau Valley Day Trip 🏞️

Less than an hour away, this valley offers breathtaking mountain scenery, charming villages, and great hiking trails for nature enthusiasts.

10. Jurançon Wine Route 🍇

Visit local vineyards and taste the famous sweet white wine of the region, produced on the sunny slopes surrounding Pau.

Pau could be your next FlyKube surprise destination. Direct flights and the hotel category you choose, from 150€. Discover your destination 48h before your trip.
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Frequently asked questions about traveling to Pau

Pau is generally safe for tourists, especially in the main tourist areas. As in any large city, keep your belongings in sight and stay aware of your surroundings.

Yes, Pau is one of our 100+ surprise destinations. Book a Surprise Destination experience from 150€ and discover if Pau is your next destination 48 hours before your trip.