Pau: City of Art and History
A commune situated in the center of what used to be the sovereign Principality of Bearn as its capital, Pau, France is an interesting city that was named “City of Art and History” in 2011. When the tourism industry fell in the 20th century, the local economy eventually shifted to the aviation industry. When the Lacq gas field was discovered in 1951, the local economy focused on petrochemicals.
Best Time to Visit
Generally, it is highly recommended to visit Pau, FR in the months of April through October for the perfect weather. Peak tourist season is usually during the months of January, February, and July. For the cheapest tour and hotel rates, tourists may consider visiting in December. Every February, the locals hold Biarnes Carnival, one of metropolitan France’s five (5) biggest carnivals. Spread over various days, the festivities are held around a pantheon of classic characters from Pyrenean legends and tales, such as Sent-Pancard, Carronha, among others.
What to Do & Area Attractions
Situated at the heart of Pau, Chateau de Pau is one of the must-see attractions in the city. From a feudal castle, it has become a national museum as centuries went by. The French Ministry of Culture has classified it as a Monument historique since 1940. Another great place to visit is the Church of St-Martin, a historical monument since 2015. Inaugurated in 1871, the church features neo-Gothic architecture. Its decorations are highly influenced by the Byzantine style. There are a lot of great Pau, FR hotels in the city, such as Hotel Le Roncevaux, the Best Western Hotel Continental, and the nearby Hotel De Gramont.