· FR

Pau

Pau, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France

Fall in Love with Pau, the Jewel of the Pyrenees Nestled in the foothills of the majestic Pyrenees mountains in southwest France, Pau (pronounced "Poh") is a city that effortlessly blends history, culture, and breathtaki…

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Pau.

Top Hotels in Pau

Top Flights to Pau

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Pau.

Tours

Explore the Château de Pau

Discover the rich history and beautiful architecture of the Château de Pau, the birthplace of King Henry IV.

Visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts

Admire fine arts and European paintings from the 15th to the 20th century at the Musée des Beaux-Arts.

Visit Église Saint-Jacques

Explore the neoclassical architecture of Église Saint-Jacques, a landmark in Pau with stunning interiors.

Tour the Pau Grand Prix Circuit

Get a taste of motorsport history with a tour of the Pau Grand Prix Circuit, a city circuit used since 1933.

Shopping

Shopping at Les Halles de Pau

Experience the local culture at Les Halles de Pau, a vibrant market offering local delicacies and artisan products.

Shop at Pau's Boutique District

Explore boutiques offering the latest fashion trends, accessories, and unique items in Pau's shopping district.

Outdoor

Stroll through the Parc Beaumont

Enjoy a relaxing walk or picnic in the lush Parc Beaumont, a central park with beautiful flower beds and ponds.

Hiking in the Pyrenees

Take a guided hike in the Pyrenees Mountains for breathtaking views and fresh mountain air.

Enjoy a Day at Pau Golf Club

Play a round at one of the oldest golf courses in Europe, set in the beautiful countryside of Pau.

Adventure at Parc Aventure de Bosdarros

Experience high ropes and zip-lining in a forest park setting suitable for thrill seekers and families.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Pau.

Currency

€ | EUR | Euro

Population

The approximate estimated total population of Pau, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France is around 77,000.

Languages

French, Occitan, French

Average weather

Pau

Jan

9°2°

Feb

11°3°

Mar

14°5°

Apr

16°7°

May

20°10°

Jun

23°13°

Jul

26°15°

Aug

26°15°

Sep

23°13°

Oct

18°10°

Nov

13°6°

Dec

10°3°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Pau.

What people love

Pau, located in Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France, offers several pros for travelers:

Scenic Beauty: Pau is known for its picturesque setting at the foot of the Pyrenees mountains, offering stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and exploring the surrounding countryside.
Rich History: Pau has a rich history dating back to medieval times, with a well-preserved old town featuring historic buildings, churches, and museums. Visitors can learn about the city's past through guided tours and visits to landmarks like the Château de Pau.
Thermal Spas: Pau is home to several thermal spas where visitors can relax and rejuvenate in natural mineral-rich waters. These spas offer a range of wellness treatments and are a popular attraction for those seeking relaxation and pampering.
Local Cuisine: Pau is known for its delicious regional cuisine, including dishes such as garbure (a hearty vegetable soup), confit de canard (duck confit), and gateau basque (a traditional Basque cake). Visitors can enjoy sampling local specialties at restaurants and markets throughout the city.
Cultural Events: Pau hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year, including music festivals, art exhibitions, and theater performances. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local arts scene and experience the vibrant cultural life of the city.

Overall, Pau offers a unique blend of natural beauty, history, wellness opportunities, culinary delights, and cultural experiences, making it a great destination for travelers looking to explore the southwest of France.

What to know

Traveling to Pau, located in Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France, may have some cons that travelers should consider:

Limited Public Transportation: Pau is not a major tourist destination, so public transportation options within the city may be limited compared to larger cities in France. This could make it more challenging to get around and explore the area.
Language Barrier: While many people in tourist areas may speak English, in more local areas like Pau, there may be a language barrier for English-speaking travelers. It's recommended to have some basic knowledge of French to navigate interactions more smoothly.
Limited Tourist Infrastructure: Pau may not have as many tourist facilities, such as hotels, restaurants, and tour operators, compared to popular tourist destinations in France. Travelers may need to plan their itinerary more carefully to ensure they have access to necessary amenities.
Weather: Pau experiences a relatively high amount of rainfall, especially in the winter months. Travelers should be prepared for potentially wet weather if visiting during these times.
Limited Tourist Attractions: While Pau has some historical sites and natural beauty, it may not offer as many attractions and activities compared to other cities in France. Travelers looking for a bustling tourist scene with numerous attractions may find Pau quieter in comparison.

Overall, while Pau offers its own unique charm and attractions, travelers should be aware of these potential cons to have a more informed and enjoyable trip to the area.

Pau is a city located in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region of southwestern France. It is the prefecture of the Pyrénées-Atlantiques department. Pau has a rich history, shaped by its strategic location near the Pyrenees and its role in regional politics.

Early History

Prehistoric and Roman Periods: The area around Pau has been inhabited since prehistoric times. During the Roman period, the region was sparsely populated, mainly by the Aquitani tribe.

Middle Ages

11th Century: The first recorded mention of Pau dates back to the 11th century. It was initially a small settlement around a castle built to guard the passage across the Gave de Pau river.
12th Century: The name "Pau" is believed to derive from the Latin word "palum," meaning "stake" or "palisade," referring to the fortifications around the castle.
14th Century: Pau became the capital of Béarn, a semi-independent principality within the Kingdom of France, under the Viscounts of Béarn.

Renaissance Period

16th Century: Pau gained prominence as the birthplace of King Henry IV of France in 1553. His reign marked a period of prosperity and development for the city. He was baptized in the Château de Pau, and his connection to the city has been a source of pride.
Béarnaise Identity: The Béarnaise dialect of the Occitan language and local traditions flourished during this time.

French Revolution and 19th Century

Revolutionary Changes: The French Revolution brought significant changes to Pau, as it did to the rest of France. The ecclesiastical properties were nationalized, and the administrative structures were reformed.
19th Century: Pau became a popular destination for British and Russian aristocrats, who were drawn to its mild climate and beautiful scenery. This led to the construction of many villas and the establishment of the first golf course in continental Europe in 1856.

20th Century

World Wars: Pau was relatively unscathed by both World Wars. During World War II, it was part of Vichy France before being liberated by Allied forces.
Post-War Development: The city expanded significantly during the post-war period, with new industries and educational institutions contributing to its growth.

Significant Landmarks

Château de Pau: This castle is one of the most important landmarks in Pau. It has been extensively restored and now houses the Musée National du Château de Pau, showcasing a collection of artworks and historical artifacts.
Boulevard des Pyrénées: This scenic promenade offers stunning views of the Pyrenees mountains and is a testament to the city's picturesque setting.
Parc Beaumont: A beautiful park that was landscaped in the 19th century, offering a peaceful escape in the heart of the city.
Saint-Martin Church: A neo-Gothic church that is another key architectural highlight of Pau.

Notable Figures

Henry IV of France: Born in Pau, he played a crucial role in French history, notably issuing the Edict of Nantes, which granted religious freedom to Protestants.
Jean-Baptiste Bernadotte: A marshal of France under Napoleon, who later became King Charles XIV of Sweden and Norway, was also a prominent figure associated with the region.

Pau today is known for its vibrant cultural life, strong educational institutions, and a gateway to the Pyrenees mountains, attracting tourists and students alike.