Pau City Guide

Local dishes like Poule au Pot and Garbure are common. International restaurants include Italian, Asian, and North African cuisines. Vegetarian and vegan options are increasing. Late-night options are limited.

Nightlife centers around Place Royale and Rue des Cordeliers with bars and some clubs.

A mix of traditional and newer specialty coffee shops. Third-wave coffee culture is emerging.

Tipping isn't required as service is included. Small tips (5-10%) are appreciated for good service or taxis.

You can buy SIM cards at Orange, SFR, Bouygues Telecom, Free Mobile stores or some supermarkets. Registration with ID is required. Orange and Bouygues usually have good coverage.

The city is kept clean with regular waste and recycling services.

Limited true 24/7 options. Some minimarts have extended hours but few 24/7 pharmacies or clinics.

Supermarkets like Carrefour, Leclerc, Auchan, and Intermarché carry local and international products. Fresh markets such as Les Halles de Pau offer produce and meat. Most stores open Mon-Sat with limited Sunday hours.

Card payments like Visa and Mastercard are accepted in most places. Cash is handy for small shops and local markets.

ATMs are common in banks and shopping areas. International withdrawal fees depend on your bank but French banks usually don't add extra charges.

Options include local French public and private schools and the American School of Pau offering an American curriculum.

A small but growing digital nomad community. Nomad meetups and co-living spaces are rare but cafés often have good Wi-Fi.

Large parks and green areas offer good space for outdoor activities.

Safe, scenic running routes include parks and riverside paths. Running groups exist.

Several gyms offer different fitness options.

Several tennis and padel courts are available, often with coaching and equipment rental.

Padel courts are becoming common with club bookings available.

Yoga studios offer various styles and both drop-in and memberships.

Judo, Karate, Taekwondo, BJJ, and boxing gyms exist. Instructor language abilities vary.

Pyrenees ski resorts like Gourette are within 1.5 hours. Suitable for all levels with rental equipment on site.

Kayaking and paddleboarding are possible on the Gave de Pau river. Coastal sailing and windsurfing are farther away.

Basque Coast surf spots are reachable in about 1 to 1.5 hours. Both beginner and advanced areas exist, with several surf schools available.

Limited diving near Pau; better options are farther on the Atlantic coast.

Pau has hospitals like Centre Hospitalier de Pau with some English-speaking staff. The public health system is good, and private clinics are available.

Tap water in Pau is safe to drink.

Playgrounds, kid-friendly cafés, and attractions like Château de Pau make it suitable for families.

Accepting and safe with legal protections. Some inclusive venues exist.

Generally pet-friendly with parks and vets. Pet-friendly places are increasing but check ahead.