How to get to Pau

The picturesque city of Pau, located in the south-west of France at the very foot of the Pyrenees, is renowned for its elegant boulevards and mild climate. If you are seeking information on how to reach Pau, you will be pleased to discover the excellent transport accessibility of this historic hub: you can comfortably arrive here by train, car, or plane. By choosing to visit Pau, you will easily find a convenient route to begin your exploration of the culture and nature of the New Aquitaine region.

The most comfortable and fastest way to reach the region is via the city's own airport, known as Pau Pyrénées (IATA code: PUF). It is located just 10–12 kilometres from the centre of Pau. The air hub receives regular flights from Paris (Charles de Gaulle and Orly airports) and Lyon, ensuring convenient connections for tourists arriving via international airlines.

Transport connections to the city are excellent: buses depart directly from the terminal, taking passengers to the centre in approximately 30 minutes. Additionally, taxis or car rental services for independent travel are always available at the arrivals exit.

As an alternative option, you might consider arriving at the neighbouring Tarbes-Lourdes-Pyrénées airport, located 40 kilometres away. However, a direct flight to Pau will save you from extra transfers and allow you to start exploring the city immediately after landing.

Travelling by rail is one of the most convenient and scenic ways to reach the city of Pau. The local railway station (Gare de Pau) is located in the lower part of the city, on the banks of the Gave de Pau river, and serves as a vital transport hub for the region.

High-speed TGV trains regularly arrive here from Paris (departing from Montparnasse station), with a travel time of about 4.5 hours. Furthermore, regional connections are well-developed: comfortable TER trains connect the resort with Bordeaux, Toulouse, Bayonne, and Lourdes, making it easy to plan a route across the south of France.

A pleasant bonus for travellers is the route from the station to the historic centre: you can ascend to the famous Boulevard des Pyrénées using the free funicular, the station for which is located directly opposite the terminal exit.

Bus services connect Pau with many picturesque corners of the region, offering travellers an economical alternative to rail transport. The route from the neighbouring city of Lourdes is particularly popular: the bus covers the distance of 40–50 kilometres in approximately one hour, revealing magnificent views of the Pyrenees foothills to passengers.

Regular connections are also established with the administrative centre of Mont-de-Marsan, from where the 85-kilometre journey takes between one and a half to two hours. If you are travelling from the direction of the thermal resorts, you can take a direct service via Dax, which will deliver you to the capital of Béarn in roughly one and a half hours.

Travelling by car offers you freedom of movement and the opportunity to enjoy the pastoral landscapes of the Béarn region. A short drive from the famous Lourdes takes only about 45 minutes, as the cities are separated by just 40 kilometres of excellent road. If you are heading from the north, from the administrative centre of Mont-de-Marsan, the 85-kilometre journey along a modern highway will take just over an hour.

The route from the thermal springs of Dax is also popular: the distance of 80 kilometres can be comfortably covered in approximately an hour and a quarter. Taxi services on these routes cost on average between 80 and 200 euros depending on the departure point, which is an excellent solution for tourists with bulky luggage who value maximum convenience.

Preparing for your trip to Pau will be much simpler if you take note of a few important nuances of local life in advance. We have compiled a list of practical recommendations to help make your visit to this historic capital of the Béarn region as comfortable and carefree as possible.

1. Seasonal Clothing. The climate here is mild but changeable due to the proximity of the mountains. Even in summer, it is worth packing a light jacket or jumper for cool evenings, and a compact umbrella will come in handy at any time of year. Since the historic centre is paved with cobblestones, be sure to bring comfortable flat shoes for long walks.
2. Getting Around the City. The city centre is compact and best explored on foot. To move between the lower town (by the river and station) and the upper historic centre, use the famous funicular—the ride is absolutely free. For trips to outlying districts, the Idelis city bus network is suitable.
3. Currency and Payment. The national currency of France is the Euro. Bank cards are accepted almost everywhere: in hotels, restaurants, and supermarkets. However, a small amount of cash (small denomination notes and coins) is useful for purchases at farmers' markets, in small bakeries, or for tipping.
4. Safety and Healthcare. Pau is a peaceful and safe city where you can walk even in the evening by observing standard precautions. Pharmacies are easily recognised by the flashing green cross and operate on a strict schedule. The single number for calling emergency services is 112.
5. Communication. The primary language is French. Staff in tourist offices and large hotels usually speak English, but locals greatly appreciate politeness. Learn a few basic words: "Bonjour" (hello) and "Merci" (thank you)—this will help establish a rapport with people.
6. Local Etiquette. When entering a shop, café, or boarding a bus, it is customary to greet the staff or driver. Note the strict dining schedule: lunch in restaurants is usually served from 12:00 to 14:00, and dinner begins no earlier than 19:00. In between, the kitchen may be closed.
7. What to Avoid. Do not plan an early dinner at 17:00 or 18:00—at this time you will likely only find beverages or light snacks available. Also, try to avoid speaking too loudly in public places and places of worship: the French value restraint and respect for the personal space of others.
8. Bonus for Photographers. The most impressive panoramas open up from the Boulevard des Pyrénées. Try to come here in clear weather immediately after sunrise or before sunset: it is at this time that the view of the mountain peaks is particularly majestic, and the lighting is ideal for photos.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid minor organizational inconveniences and focus entirely on your relaxation. Enjoy the elegant architecture, gastronomy, and stunning views that this cozy French city offers its guests.