Things To Do
in Lescar

Lescar is a charming commune located in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques department in southwestern France. It boasts a rich history, evident in its well-preserved medieval architecture and cobbled streets. The town is situated close to Pau, providing a scenic backdrop of the Pyrenees mountains.

Lescar is known for its vibrant local culture and welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking an authentic French experience.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Historical Lescar
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Cathedral of Lescar, where you can admire its stunning Romanesque architecture and beautiful stained glass windows.

afternoon
:

Stroll through the charming streets of the old town, visit local artisan shops, and enjoy lunch at a café in the Place de la Mairie.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant and then take a leisurely walk to the viewpoint overlooking Pau and the Pyrenees, perfect for sunset photography.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin with a hike in the nearby Parc Naturel Régional des Pyrénées, where you can enjoy stunning views and local flora.

afternoon
:

Visit the Lescar market for local produce and crafts, and try some regional snacks.

evening
:

Enjoy an evening of local wine tasting at a vineyard nearby, followed by dinner at a traditional bistro.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15 - $30
Coffee$2 - $5
🍷Glass of local wine$4 - $8
🚍Public transport ticket$1.50
🛍️Souvenir$5 - $20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural heritage.
  • Beautiful natural surroundings ideal for outdoor activities.
  • Friendly and welcoming locals.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation options can be limited.
  • Less English spoken in rural areas.
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Où est...?" - Where is...?
  • "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The bill, please

Places to Visit in Lescar

Visit one of these nice places.

Cathedral of Lescar

Capture stunning images of this historic cathedral with its intricate architecture and beautiful surroundings.

Viewpoint Over Pau

A breathtaking spot to photograph the sunset over the Pyrenees mountains and the city of Pau.

Old Town Streets

Wander through the picturesque cobbled streets and snap photos of the charming houses and local shops.

Culinary Guide

Food in Lescar

Lescar offers a delightful array of culinary experiences, showcasing the flavors of the Béarn region. From hearty meals to delectable pastries, there's something for every palate.

Lescar Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Poulet Basquaise

A traditional dish of chicken cooked with tomatoes, bell peppers, and spices, reflecting the Basque influence in the region.

Must-Try!

Gâteau Basque

A delicious dessert filled with cream or cherry jam, this pastry is a must-try when in the area.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Lescar Market

A vibrant market held every Saturday, offering fresh produce, cheeses, and local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Lescar experiences a temperate oceanic climate, with mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from 5°C (41°F) in January to 28°C (82°F) in July. Rainfall is moderate throughout the year, with the wettest months typically being May and November. The region enjoys plenty of sunshine, especially during the summer months, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

Always greet with a polite 'Bonjour' when entering shops or restaurants.

Dining Etiquette

Keep your hands on the table but not your elbows, and wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat.

Language

While many locals speak English, using basic French phrases is appreciated and shows respect.

Safety Guide

Safety

Lescar is generally considered safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to take standard precautions, such as safeguarding personal belongings and being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112 in case of any incidents.

Tipping in Lescar

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

A tip of around 5-10% is appreciated in restaurants, but it’s not mandatory as service is usually included.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash is beneficial for small purchases and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Warm weather attracts tourists; enjoy festivals and outdoor dining, but be prepared for occasional heat waves.

Autumn

Fall colors create a picturesque landscape; it’s also a great time for local wine harvest festivals.

Winter

Cool temperatures can bring snow to the mountains, ideal for winter sports enthusiasts and cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Lescar at Night

Lescar's nightlife is relatively low-key but offers a cozy experience with a few bars and bistros. The atmosphere is friendly, with locals often gathering for drinks after work. During weekends, you may find live music events or cultural performances at local venues, especially in nearby Pau, which has a more vibrant nightlife scene.

Hiking in Lescar

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sentier du Luy

A scenic trail that offers stunning views of the Luy River and surrounding hills, suitable for hikers of all levels.

Chemin des Coteaux

This trail provides a moderate hike through vineyards and forests, perfect for enjoying the natural beauty of the region.

Airports

How to reach Lescar by plane.

Pau Pyrénées Airport

Located approximately 10 km from Lescar, this airport offers domestic flights and some international connections, making it convenient for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Lescar is quite walkable, with many attractions and amenities located within a short distance. The old town is pedestrian-friendly, featuring narrow streets and charming squares. Sidewalks are well-maintained, making it easy to explore on foot, and there are plenty of benches for resting along the way.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

Lescar is home to a mix of families, retirees, and young professionals who enjoy the town's relaxed pace and community spirit.

Tourists

Visitors come from various regions, attracted by the town's history, culture, and proximity to the Pyrenees.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Rugby

Rugby is a beloved sport in the region, with many local teams and a strong following among residents.

Cycling

The Pyrenees provide excellent routes for cycling enthusiasts, with many locals participating in both recreational and competitive cycling.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Lescar is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation is available, with local buses connecting to Pau and surrounding areas, but schedules may be limited. Cycling is also a popular mode of transport, given the scenic routes available.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Lescar.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Gluten-Free

Many restaurants offer gluten-free options; however, it's advisable to inform your server about your dietary needs.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian dishes are becoming more common, but it may be beneficial to check menus in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Lescar is generally good, with several medical facilities and pharmacies available. For emergencies, the nearest hospital is located in Pau, just a short drive away. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance and know the location of the nearest healthcare services.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide