What can you do at the weekend in Pau?

A weekend in Pau offers the chance to explore Les Halles, the city centre, the castle, the Jurançon vineyards, Lescar and a range of outdoor activities.

What should I plan to do over two days in Pau?

On a Saturday, you can combine a visit to the market, a spot of shopping and a trip to a vineyard. Sunday is the perfect day to visit Pau Castle, explore Lescar and take part in some sport.

What’s worth visiting in Pau with the family over a weekend?

Families can explore Les Halles, Pau Castle and the medieval town of Lescar, and choose an activity to suit them at the Aquasports Park.

Do you need a car to spend a weekend in Pau?

The centre of Pau is easy to explore on foot or by bike. A car is still handy for getting to the Jurançon vineyards and certain attractions around the city.

How can you explore the Jurançon wine region from Pau?

You can visit the Gan winery or the independent estates along the Wine Route. Remember to check opening times and book certain tours in advance.

What can you do in Pau on a rainy weekend?

You can visit Pau Castle, enjoy the Halles, explore the shops in the town centre and check the events calendar for museums and cultural venues.

Which activities should you book in advance?

It is advisable to book guided tours, certain wine tastings in the Jurançon region and sporting activities, particularly at busy weekends.

Where to eat and stay during a weekend in Pau?

The town centre is home to restaurants, outdoor cafés and food shops. There are also plenty of hotels, guesthouses and other accommodation options in and around Pau.

Weekend break Nothing but happiness

Why not treat yourself to a weekend trip to Pau to escape the daily grind? With a mix of history and culinary delights, shopping and relaxation, city and countryside, all the ingredients are there to create some lovely moments of pleasure. Whether as a couple, with family or friends, whether you’ve travelled from far away, nearby or are just round the corner, this is the perfect opportunity to treat yourself – easily and on a budget! Follow the guide…

Paul

Fascinated by my city and its gentle way of life, and in love with the Pyrenees, I take advantage of my free time to explore Béarn, unearth good addresses and discover the country off the beaten track! Sharing my experiences is my greatest reward!

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Saturday morning There’s a festive atmosphere at Les Halles

Whether you arrive on Friday or on Saturday morning, there’s nothing quite like a visit to Les Halles, the local market, first thing in the morning to put you in a good mood.

The warm atmosphere, the friendly market traders, the wonderful smells and the flavours of our local produce are a great start to your trip to Béarn! It’s lively, full of laughter and, above all, full of Gascon banter! Your ears will be filled with the Béarn accent whilst your eyes feast on a riot of colours: as for your taste buds, they’ll be tingling at the taste of these beautiful, organic, delicious and local produce!

If you start off sensibly with a small coffee and a sweet treat, it’s quite possible that, once you’ve had a look round the producers’ stalls and the well-stocked market stands, you won’t be able to resist a savoury snack accompanied by a fresh, sweet Jurançon… all enjoyed on the sun-drenched roof terrace. There you go – you’re in the mood.

A symphony of happiness!

Explore the market halls of Pau

“Upstairs, there’s something for everyone when it comes to food. Tapas, crêpes, burgers, traditional dishes, Asian cuisine, truffle dishes, Italian food…
Delicious food and a great atmosphere guaranteed during the late-night openings! Whether with family or friends, for work or relaxation, it’s the perfect place to have a brilliant time.“
Céline (Google Reviews)

Gourmet Pass

To try a bit of everything, get the Gourmet Pass: Whether you’re feeling peckish or ravenous, enjoy all the delicious flavours of Béarn’s specialities!

By car

If you’re travelling by car, you’ll find it easy to park. If you’re coming by train, do consider hiring a car to get out of Pau.

By bike

There’s nothing easier than getting around by bike: cycle paths, greenways… and plenty of bike hire options available locally.

When it rains

If it rains, there’s no chance of getting bored: we’ve got loads of ideas and things for you to do!

Book

To book your activities: Visitthe Tourist Office or book directly via the ticket office!

Agenda

Sporting events, festivals, concerts and other events: choose the right time!

A leisurely shopping trip just for fun

Continue your exploration with a stroll through the town. Shopping enthusiasts won’t be disappointed – there are plenty of high-street chains and lovely luxury boutiques waiting for you. If you’re a fan of local, sustainable and socially responsible crafts and artisanal products, there’s everything you need to treat yourself to a few things you won’t regret – not forgetting the Passage Carnot!

But now it’s time for a break on a terrace for a drink or your lunch. There are plenty of great spots and lovely terraces waiting for you!

Saturday afternoon Jurançon, King of Wines, Wine of Kings

In the afternoon, head for the hillsides. As you leave Pau, the vineyards come into view. The landscape is now nothing but rolling valleys and gentle slopes… Depending on your preference, there are two options: the Jurançon Producers’ Co-operative in Gan, or a tour of the independent producers along the Wine Route. Jurançon invites you to get to know it. Over a glass, you’ll discover the rich flavours of this wine, which combines freshness, roundness and fruitiness. Our winegrowers love to share their passion for this ‘yellow gold’ of the Béarn, which is produced under the watchful eye of the Pic du Midi d’Ossau.

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A Love of Jurançon

“As a teenager, I met a passionate, imperious prince, as treacherous as all seducers: the Jurançon”

Colette

Sunday morning By Good King Henry!

A must-see: the National Museum of the Château. Over eight centuries of history await you!
You’ll hear all about it on a guided tour that takes you through richly furnished rooms and apartments, all linked by a common theme: the legacy of Henry IV.

Highlight of the tour: The cradle of the Good King Henry, as surprising as it is unusual!
Henry IV, King of France and Navarre, was born here, at the Château de Pau, on 13 December 1553.

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Once the residence of the Viscounts of Foix and Navarre, this fortress has undergone numerous alterations. Its architecture bears witness to various periods, from the Middle Ages through the Renaissance to the Empire. From Jeanne d’Albret to Napoleon III, each has left their mark. The tour allows us to trace the different periods: the château is richly furnished and the tapestries are sumptuous. The cradle made from a tortoise shell and the Béarn-style baptism continue to fuel the legend of a king who sought religious peace and prosperity for his country.

“I want there to be no peasant in my kingdom
so poor that he does not have a chicken stew every Sunday.”
Henry IV

Explore the museum at Pau Castle

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Sunday afternoon Lescar, a medieval town

Our history tour continues outside the city walls, with a visit to the medieval town of Lescar. The Romanesque cathedral houses the tombs of the kings of Navarre and a magnificent medieval mosaic.
The town’s ramparts offer an incredible view of the Pyrenees. Why not take the opportunity to book a guided tour at the Tourist Office, and on summer evenings, a night-time torchlit tour, which includes a truly unexpected and moving moment inside the cathedral. We won’t say any more – it’s a surprise!

Discover the medieval town of Lescar