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Pau, view from Boulevard des Pyrénées

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Pau Pyrénées Tourisme | PL

Car-free Pau The luxury of taking one’s time

Pau is easy to explore without a car. Here, everything is within walking distance, and the best of the city is best experienced outdoors: a stroll along the Boulevard des Pyrénées to enjoy the view, a detour through the city centre to wander amongst the squares, shops and terraces, then a break in one of the parks and gardens that give the city its gentle rhythm.
To venture further afield with ease, public transport provides easy links between the main attractions and neighbourhoods, whilst pedestrian routes (such as the riverbanks and greenways) offer a different, quieter and more pleasant way to get around the city. In Pau, travelling light also means taking your time: time for a coffee on a terrace, a market, a sunset over the Pyrenees… and a city on a human scale that simply invites you to explore it at your own pace. Discover our selection!

1. A day in Pau

Discover a day in Pau: take in the views from the Boulevard des Pyrénées, stroll through the city centre, stop for a drink on a terrace, visit the Château de Pau, then enjoy some fresh air in Parc Beaumont before rounding off the day with a gentle stroll. You choose the pace: we’ll provide the inspiration!

Transport tip:
Take the Coxitis, the 100% electric shuttle in the city centre, which runs free of charge from Monday to Saturday.

2. The medieval town of Lescar

Discover the medieval town of Lescar: a real gem for a heritage getaway just 10 kilometres from Pau.
Once there, everything is within walking distance: stroll to the Place Royale, enjoy the narrow streets and views, and take the time to soak up the atmosphere of the historic town. And to explore further, consider joining Marie-Pierre’s guided tours of the town, on Fridays and Saturdays from 3pm to 4.30pm (subject to change).

Transport tip:
From Pau, depart from Place d’Espagne (Bosquet), platform B; line 8 takes you to Lescar. To pinpoint your stop (e.g. “Jacques Monod”), use the IDELIS “timetables at the stop” tool.

3. Gan Cooperative Winery And a walk on the Bastarrous hillside

Discover Gan (10 km from Pau) with its winning combination of vineyards and panoramic views: a visit to the Jurançon Cooperative Winery in Gan (free tour and tasting at specific times), followed by a hike up the Bastarrous hillside to take in the views over the Jurançon hills, amongst vineyards, woods and country lanes, with superb views of the Pyrenees.
By cycling along the greenway, you can enjoy a gentle route through town, countryside and the Pyrenean foothills, whilst travelling lighter and more sustainably. You can leave your bike at the bike racks next to the bakery.

Transport tip:
The Cave is accessible by IDELIS bus (line 11, “Cave” stop, departing from Pau – Place d’Espagne Quai C, towards GAN)

4. The Aquasports Park Whitewater Stadium

Discover the Aquasports Park – Whitewater Centre (in Bizanos, on the outskirts of Pau): a unique spot to experience whitewater sports (rafting, kayaking, hydrospeed, etc.) in a natural setting on the banks of the Gave.
Out of season, the site is also perfect for a more leisurely outing: you can stroll around the reservoir and join the greenway for a walk or a cycle ride along the water’s edge.

Transport tip:
Take the IDELIS bus no. 9 from Place d’Espagne, platform C, towards and alight at the “Rives du Gave” stop

5. Calicéo

Fancy a bit of a wellness break? Head to Calicéo Pau: heated indoor and outdoor pools, relaxation areas, and sauna, hammam and jacuzzi facilities to unwind in – perfect whether it’s chilly or hot outside.
It’s the ideal way to unwind after a day of sightseeing or simply treat yourself to a peaceful break.

Transport tip:
Take the IDELIS bus: Line 6, towards Serres Castet / departing from Pau Bosquet Quai C + a 9-minute walk.

Advice from friends
Let's head to Pau!

By train, you arrive right in the city centre – incredibly convenient. By plane, Pau-Pyrénées Airport gets you there in no time. And once you’re here, it’s all about having fun: you can explore everything on foot or by bus, with no hassle.
Find out how to get to and around Pau

Toilet break When you can't wait any longer!

In the city, knowing where to find public toilets is invaluable… Especially with children! To make your life easier, we’ve compiled a list of the public toilets available in Pau: convenient, easy to spot, and close to popular walking spots and must-see attractions.
Discover the public toilets in Pau city centre

Where to have a drink?

Check out our ideas for a drink in Pau: terraces overlooking the Boulevard des Pyrénées, cocktail bars for a more sophisticated evening, wine bars and sharing platters for a friendly get-together, and lively spots in the Hédas area to keep the night going. It’s up to you to choose depending on your mood: we’ll provide the inspiration!
Discover where to have a drink in town

Getting around

With IDELIS, getting around Pau is a breeze: buses, connections and routes to get anywhere without a car.
For the simplest way to plan your journey, use “Timetables at stop” (line + direction + stop + date) and you’ll have your journey details in just a few clicks.
Need some guidance? Download the network maps (overview map, line-by-line maps, transport hubs).
And to get quickly between key points, line F (Fébus) is the backbone of the network.
Check your bus timetables in real time

Take a tour of Pau on a mini train

Experience Pau in a different way with Lionel, a train driver and passionate guide!
From early April to late October, set off to discover Pau in the company of Lionel, a train driver and lover of his local area. Anecdotes, must-see viewpoints, little local stories… He’ll take you on a tour of the city with a unique perspective and a friendly atmosphere. A wonderful way to (re)discover Pau, through an accessible, lively tour full of surprises.
Find out all about Pau’s little tourist train

Get around on an electric bike!

Fancy a different kind of tour? With Idécycle, explore Pau by bike all year round for an enjoyable, friendly experience full of stunning views. A gentle yet dynamic way to explore the city, from its must-see attractions to its hidden gems… ideal for (re)discovering Pau at your own pace.
Discover Idécycle, the electric bike hire service

FAQ Discover and enjoy Pau without a car

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