Things To Do
in Pau
Pau is a picturesque city located in southwestern France at the foot of the Pyrenees Mountains. Known for its beautiful architecture, Pau is home to historic buildings, including the impressive ChĂąteau de Pau. The city's charming old town features narrow cobblestone streets lined with cafes, shops, and boutiques.
Pau also boasts stunning views of the surrounding countryside and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking hiking, skiing, and other outdoor activities.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaĂźt" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Au revoir" - Goodbye
Prices
- đ Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- đœïž Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- â Coffee: $2 - $5
- đ Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- đ Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- đïžââïž Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk through the beautiful Parc Beaumont, where you'll enjoy stunning views. The park's serene atmosphere is perfect for relaxation and mindfulness.
Visit the ChĂąteau de Pau, the birthplace of King Henry IV, and explore its fascinating history and architecture. Don't forget to take pictures of the picturesque gardens surrounding the castle.
Dine at a local bistro in the city center, sampling traditional Gascon cuisine. End the day with a leisurely stroll along the Boulevard des Pyrénées to admire the sunset.
Head to the Marché de Pau, where you can experience the vibrant atmosphere and sample fresh produce. Interact with local vendors to learn more about regional specialties.
After exploring the market, indulge in a picnic at the Parc Garnavet with your market finds. Enjoy the lively ambiance as you watch families and friends enjoying the outdoors.
Attend an evening performance at the Palais Beaumont, which hosts various cultural events and concerts. Experience the local art scene while mingling with fellow attendees.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery with views of the Pyrenees mountains
- Mild climate year-round, making it enjoyable for outdoor activities
- Rich history and culture with several historical sites and museums
- Vibrant local gastronomy and wine culture
- Great location for accessing both the mountains and the Atlantic coast
- Friendly and welcoming community
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger French cities
- Limited public transport options compared to larger urban centers
- Smaller job market, particularly for specialized professions
- Can be touristy during peak seasons, which may impact local life
- Some may find the pace of life too slow compared to bigger cities
- Potential language barrier for non-French speakers
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options
Best Activities in Pau
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful Pyrenees mountain range with its many hiking trails and stunning alpine scenery.
Enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the picturesque Gave de Pau river, which offers scenic views and a peaceful atmosphere.
Relax and have a picnic in the expansive Beaumont Park, a lovely green space with manicured gardens and walking paths.
Tours
Uncover the best of Pau with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Pau
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the Pyrenees mountains and beautiful photo opportunities of the cityscape
Provides stunning views of the city and the surrounding landscape, as well as a picturesque backdrop for photos
Features lovely gardens and pathways with scenic spots for capturing the city and its natural beauty
Food in Pau
Pau Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Poule au Pot, a classic French dish, is a delectable pot-roasted chicken stuffed with savory fillings, such as sausage, vegetables, and herbs. This comforting fare is best enjoyed at La Belle Epoque, a renowned restaurant in the heart of Pau.
Must-Try!
No trip to Pau is complete without savoring the exquisite Jurançon wine, hailing from the nearby vineyards. This sweet, aromatic white wine perfectly complements the local cuisine and can be sampled at Les Caves de Gan, a charming wine bar that showcases an impressive selection of regional wines.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Pau better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The iconic Halles de Pau is a bustling market where visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant local food culture. From fresh produce and artisanal cheeses to flavorful charcuterie and freshly baked bread, this market is a paradise for food enthusiasts. Make sure to indulge in a piping-hot crepe from one of the lively street food vendors outside the market.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Pau, it's important to greet people upon meeting and parting. This usually involves shaking hands and making direct eye contact. It's also customary to use formal titles like 'Monsieur' or 'Madame' when addressing someone.
When dining in Pau, it's common to keep your hands on the table, but not your elbows. Also, it's polite to wait until the host starts eating before beginning your meal. Saying 'Bon appétit' before eating is considered courteous.
In Pau, people generally appreciate a certain amount of personal space. It's important to be mindful of this and avoid standing too close or initiating physical contact unless it's welcomed.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Pau with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Pau
Ensure a smooth experience
In Pau, France, tipping is not obligatory as a service charge is usually included in the bill at restaurants and cafes. However, it is customary to round up the bill or leave a small amount as a gesture of appreciation for good service.
Cash is widely accepted in Pau, particularly for smaller transactions. Credit and debit cards are also commonly used, especially in larger establishments. Contactless payment methods are becoming increasingly popular. It's advisable to have some cash on hand for small vendors and businesses.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Pau.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Pau is in spring, from March to May, when the city experiences milder weather and the surrounding countryside is in full bloom.
Summer, from June to August, brings warmer temperatures and a lively atmosphere with various outdoor events and festivals taking place in and around Pau.
In autumn, from September to November, Pau enjoys pleasant weather, making it a great time for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring the nearby Pyrenees mountains.
Winter, from December to February, sees cooler temperatures and occasionally some snow, creating a charming atmosphere in Pau and providing opportunities for winter sports in the nearby mountains.
Pau at Night
Hiking in Pau
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A striking peak in the Pyrénées with various hiking trails offering stunning views and challenging climbs.
A beautiful lake surrounded by mountains, with accessible hiking trails suitable for families and nature enthusiasts.
A scenic trail that follows the river Eridan, perfect for leisurely hikes and observing local flora and fauna.
A forested area with multiple paths for hiking, ideal for a peaceful walk amidst nature.
A stunning gorge with a hiking path that leads through breathtaking scenery and waterfalls.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Pau through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Pau by plane.
The main airport serving Pau, located just 10 km from the city center.
Located approximately 40 km from Pau, this airport serves the Tarbes and Lourdes areas.
Situated about 120 km from Pau, this airport serves the Basque region and is a popular choice for flights to and from the Atlantic coast.
This major international airport is approximately 180 km from Pau and serves the city of Toulouse and the surrounding region.
Located about 130 km from Pau, this airport serves the Bayonne area and the French Basque Country.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant demographic group in Pau, consisting of individuals who are citizens of France and identify with French culture.
A significant demographic group due to proximity to Spain, including those with Spanish heritage and migrants from Spain.
This group includes individuals from various African countries, contributing to the multicultural environment of Pau.
Individuals from North African countries, particularly Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia, reflective of historical migration patterns.
Includes various nationals from other European countries, such as Italians, Germans, and British, living in Pau.
A smaller but present demographic group, including individuals from various Asian nations, contributing to the diversity of the region.
Includes immigrants from Latin American countries, adding to the multicultural fabric of Pau.
The Soul of Pau
Discover the essence of Pau through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Rugby is the most popular sport in Pau, with a strong local team, Section Paloise, competing in the French league.
Basketball has a significant following in Pau, with teams like Ălan BĂ©arnais contributing to the sport's popularity.
Football enjoys a solid base of support in Pau, with local clubs and youth academies nurturing talent.
Due to its picturesque landscapes, cycling is a favored recreational activity and often features in local events.
Tennis is widely played in Pau, with several clubs and facilities available for both competition and leisure.
Swimming is popular among residents, with various pools and water sports activities available across the city.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pau.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Pau offers a variety of eateries catering to vegetarian and vegan preferences. Notably, Le Saladelle is a popular destination for plant-based fare, boasting an array of inventive dishes that showcase the region's seasonal produce and flavors.
Travelers with gluten sensitivities can take delight in the array of gluten-free offerings available in Pau. Stop by La Tartine, a charming bakery that specializes in gluten-free pastries and bread, ensuring that everyone can indulge in the city's delightful culinary scene.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Pau with these cultural adventures.
