One of our most popular France and Spain trips, this jam-packed journey from Paris to Barcelona is a feast for every sense, from lunch with locals and elegant châteaux in the Loire Valley, to the buzz of Avignon’s Place de l’Horloge and the irresistible French Riviera.
Highlights of France and Barcelona with Madrid Extension
Deal number: 18000633
TRAFALGAR
This deal expires 16 Aug 2025
From 29/08/2025 to 07/10/2025
Europe
12-day tour
Price from
$6,450*
per person
Deal number: 18000633
Whats Included
An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
All porterage and restaurant gratuities
All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
Must-see sightseeing
Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
Optional Experiences and free time
High-speed train from Barcelona to Madrid
On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilised
An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
All porterage and restaurant gratuities
All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
Must-see sightseeing
Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
Optional Experiences and free time
High-speed train from Barcelona to Madrid
On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilised
Day 1
Welcome to Paris
Glittering Paris is your launchpad for an epic adventure through the highlights of France and magnificent Barcelona. Spend your first day in the 'City of Light' exploring the art, architecture and culture of this romantic city on your own. Visit a renowned gallery, shop up a storm or relax in manicured gardens watching the world go by. Later, join your fellow travellers and Travel Director for a dinner and orientation drive past some of the city's most impressive sights, including the grand Champs-Élysées and Arc de Triomphe.
Day 2
Explore the Sights of Paris
Spend the morning in the company of a Local Specialist on a journey through the historic neighbourhoods of Paris, to see where the locals live and shop. View the remarkable church of Saint-Sulpice, then enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Walk along the Seine and admire the talents of street artists and performers, amble through the scenic hilltop village of Montmartre or relax with a cafe au lait watching the world go by. This evening, consider soaking up the pageantry of Paris with an Optional Experience to a popular Parisian cabaret.
Day 3
Chartres and Châteaux in the Loire Valley Connect with Locals
Visit Chartres, an important place of pilgrimage on the 'Way of Saint James', and see its inspiring French Gothic cathedral, renowned for its stained glass windows and two contrasting spires. We journey through the rolling landscape of the Loire Valley, past beautiful villages and castles. View the impressive Château de Chambord, a marvel of French Renaissance architecture, then visit Château de Chenonceau. Later, Connect With Locals, joining your travel companions and the de Montferrier family on their farm for a traditional three-course Tourangelle Be My Guest dinner experience with local wines.
Day 4
Onwards to Lyon
Travelling through the heart of France, we arrive in the gastronomic capital of Lyon where we'll join a Local Specialist for a tour of the old city, revealing its rich cultural heritage. Wander through the traboules and marvel at the magnificent skyline from Fourvière hill, followed by free time to explore this city between two rivers.
Day 5
Journey to Papal Avignon and on to the French Riviera Dive Into Culture
Head to the city of Avignon, once the seat of the Catholic popes and still rich with medieval charm. See the Papal Palace and the famous bridge from the French children’s song Sur le Pont d’Avignon. Then travel through the Provençal countryside, passing lavender fields and sun-soaked villages, en route to the glittering French Riviera. This evening is yours to explore at your own pace: take a stroll along the waterfront, dine al fresco or simply soak up the coastal vibe.
Day 6
Enjoy Monaco and the Cote d'Azur
A fun-filled day includes a visit to the tiny Principality of Monaco where you’ll view the cathedral where Prince Rainier and Princess Grace were married. See the superyachts in the port and catch a glimpse of the famed grand prix circuit. Enjoy relaxing on the sun-kissed shores of the Côte d'Azur, retreat to the beach with your fellow sun-worshippers, or perhaps embark on an Optional Experience to the medieval hill-top village of Saint-Paul-de-Vence.
Day 7
Off to Colourful Arles and Carcassonne
We travel west to the Camargue centre of Arles, with its honey-coloured façades and Roman ruins, enjoying some time at leisure to explore this beautiful city, or perhaps choosing an Optional Experience to gain a deeper understanding of Vincent van Gogh and local history with our resident expert. Later we continue through the landscapes of Provence, immortalised in the works of Cézanne and Van Gogh, to the fortified city of Carcassonne. A guided exploration of this exquisite, ancient town will reveal the Cité, its double ring of ramparts and 52 towers.
Day 8
Pass the Pyrenees to Barcelona Dive Into Culture
Driving past the foothills of the Pyrenees, we stop in Figueres to visit the Dalí Theatre and Museum where we will Dive Into Culture and gain insights into the fascinating world of Salvador Dalí. See his work in this impressive building, before arriving in Barcelona this afternoon for an included sightseeing tour. We’ll see the Columbus Monument and Antoni Gaudí's unfinished La Sagrada Família, with a Local Specialist. The evening is yours to explore this Mediterranean gem. Consider an Optional Experience to enjoy traditional Spanish cuisine and entertainment, or enjoy a delicious tapas feast on your own at one of the city's fine restaurants.
Day 9
Discover Lively Barcelona
Spend the day soaking up the vibrant spirit of Barcelona. Perhaps pay a morning visit to mystical Montserrat to visit its Benedictine monastery and see the mysterious Black Madonna, the patron saint of Catalonia. Ramble up Las Ramblas and people-watch in the Plaça de Catalunya, explore the whimsical architecture of Gaudí dotted across the city or consider an Optional Experience to discover the fascinating Gothic Quarter. This evening, join your Travel Director and travel companions for a memorable Farewell Dinner with wine at a vibrant Spanish restaurant.
Day 10
Journey By Train to Madrid
Take the train to the Spanish capital. On arrival, transfer to your hotel.
Day 11
Fiery Madrid Your Way
After breakfast, enjoy a full free day at leisure to enjoy the sights and sounds of Madrid.
Day 12
Farewell Madrid
Enjoy breakfast before you are transferred to Madrid Airport for your onward journey home.
Dining Summary
4 Dinner (D)
11 Breakfast (B)
Be My Guest
Villandry: Return to 17th-century France and join the de Montferrier family on their farm near the famous Château de Villandry for a traditional three-course Tourangelle Be My Guest dinner paired with local wines.
Dive into Culture
Figueres: Visit the Dalí Theatre-Museum, considered Salvador Dalí's last great work offering visitors real insight into his captivating world.
Iconic Experience
Paris: Explore the iconic sights and streets of Paris on an orientation drive this evening.
Paris: Join a Local Specialist to discover the hidden squares and secret lanes of Paris.
Chateau Chenonceau: Visit Château de Chenonceau or commonly known as 'Ladies Castle' which got its name from the many women who influenced its construction.
Chartres: Bask in the beautiful religious architecture from the 13th century as you explore the town of Chartres.
Lyon: Join a Local Specialist for a sightseeing tour through Lyon's historic centre. Ascend Fourvière hill for panoramic views of of the city below.
Avignon: View the Pont d'Avignon and walk the medieval narrow streets of the Old Town to the Palais des Papes.
Monaco City: See the cathedral where Prince Rainier and Princess Grace were married.
Carcassonne: Explore the fortified city of Carcassonne with a Local Specialist.
Barcelona: With your Local Specialist, see the elegant Passeig de Gràcia to take in some of the city's finest Modernist architecture. Journey past the beautiful façades of the Eixample district to see the exterior of Gaudi's extraordinary masterpiece, the mesmerizing Sagrada Família.
Must-see Highlights
Explore Paris, Lyon, Carcassonne and Barcelona
Discover Avignon, French Riviera, Monaco and Arles
Visit Château de Chenonceau in the Loire Valley and the Dalí Theatre and Museum in Figueres
View Eiffel Tower and Saint-Sulpice Church in Paris, Chartres Cathedral, Château de Chambord, the Popes' Palace of Avignon, Monaco's Royal Palace and Cathedral, the Roman Amphitheatre of Arles and La Sagrada Família and Columbus Monument in Barcelona
Scenic Drive through the Loire Valley
Welcome to Paris
Glittering Paris is your launchpad for an epic adventure through the highlights of France and magnificent Barcelona. Spend your first day in the 'City of Light' exploring the art, architecture and culture of this romantic city on your own. Visit a renowned gallery, shop up a storm or relax in manicured gardens watching the world go by. Later, join your fellow travellers and Travel Director for a dinner and orientation drive past some of the city's most impressive sights, including the grand Champs-Élysées and Arc de Triomphe.
Day 2
Explore the Sights of Paris
Spend the morning in the company of a Local Specialist on a journey through the historic neighbourhoods of Paris, to see where the locals live and shop. View the remarkable church of Saint-Sulpice, then enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Walk along the Seine and admire the talents of street artists and performers, amble through the scenic hilltop village of Montmartre or relax with a cafe au lait watching the world go by. This evening, consider soaking up the pageantry of Paris with an Optional Experience to a popular Parisian cabaret.
Day 3
Chartres and Châteaux in the Loire Valley Connect with Locals
Visit Chartres, an important place of pilgrimage on the 'Way of Saint James', and see its inspiring French Gothic cathedral, renowned for its stained glass windows and two contrasting spires. We journey through the rolling landscape of the Loire Valley, past beautiful villages and castles. View the impressive Château de Chambord, a marvel of French Renaissance architecture, then visit Château de Chenonceau. Later, Connect With Locals, joining your travel companions and the de Montferrier family on their farm for a traditional three-course Tourangelle Be My Guest dinner experience with local wines.
Day 4
Onwards to Lyon
Travelling through the heart of France, we arrive in the gastronomic capital of Lyon where we'll join a Local Specialist for a tour of the old city, revealing its rich cultural heritage. Wander through the traboules and marvel at the magnificent skyline from Fourvière hill, followed by free time to explore this city between two rivers.
Day 5
Journey to Papal Avignon and on to the French Riviera Dive Into Culture
Head to the city of Avignon, once the seat of the Catholic popes and still rich with medieval charm. See the Papal Palace and the famous bridge from the French children’s song Sur le Pont d’Avignon. Then travel through the Provençal countryside, passing lavender fields and sun-soaked villages, en route to the glittering French Riviera. This evening is yours to explore at your own pace: take a stroll along the waterfront, dine al fresco or simply soak up the coastal vibe.
Day 6
Enjoy Monaco and the Cote d'Azur
A fun-filled day includes a visit to the tiny Principality of Monaco where you’ll view the cathedral where Prince Rainier and Princess Grace were married. See the superyachts in the port and catch a glimpse of the famed grand prix circuit. Enjoy relaxing on the sun-kissed shores of the Côte d'Azur, retreat to the beach with your fellow sun-worshippers, or perhaps embark on an Optional Experience to the medieval hill-top village of Saint-Paul-de-Vence.
Day 7
Off to Colourful Arles and Carcassonne
We travel west to the Camargue centre of Arles, with its honey-coloured façades and Roman ruins, enjoying some time at leisure to explore this beautiful city, or perhaps choosing an Optional Experience to gain a deeper understanding of Vincent van Gogh and local history with our resident expert. Later we continue through the landscapes of Provence, immortalised in the works of Cézanne and Van Gogh, to the fortified city of Carcassonne. A guided exploration of this exquisite, ancient town will reveal the Cité, its double ring of ramparts and 52 towers.
Day 8
Pass the Pyrenees to Barcelona Dive Into Culture
Driving past the foothills of the Pyrenees, we stop in Figueres to visit the Dalí Theatre and Museum where we will Dive Into Culture and gain insights into the fascinating world of Salvador Dalí. See his work in this impressive building, before arriving in Barcelona this afternoon for an included sightseeing tour. We’ll see the Columbus Monument and Antoni Gaudí's unfinished La Sagrada Família, with a Local Specialist. The evening is yours to explore this Mediterranean gem. Consider an Optional Experience to enjoy traditional Spanish cuisine and entertainment, or enjoy a delicious tapas feast on your own at one of the city's fine restaurants.
Day 9
Discover Lively Barcelona
Spend the day soaking up the vibrant spirit of Barcelona. Perhaps pay a morning visit to mystical Montserrat to visit its Benedictine monastery and see the mysterious Black Madonna, the patron saint of Catalonia. Ramble up Las Ramblas and people-watch in the Plaça de Catalunya, explore the whimsical architecture of Gaudí dotted across the city or consider an Optional Experience to discover the fascinating Gothic Quarter. This evening, join your Travel Director and travel companions for a memorable Farewell Dinner with wine at a vibrant Spanish restaurant.
Day 10
Journey By Train to Madrid
Take the train to the Spanish capital. On arrival, transfer to your hotel.
Day 11
Fiery Madrid Your Way
After breakfast, enjoy a full free day at leisure to enjoy the sights and sounds of Madrid.
Day 12
Farewell Madrid
Enjoy breakfast before you are transferred to Madrid Airport for your onward journey home.
Dining Summary
4 Dinner (D)
11 Breakfast (B)
Be My Guest
Villandry: Return to 17th-century France and join the de Montferrier family on their farm near the famous Château de Villandry for a traditional three-course Tourangelle Be My Guest dinner paired with local wines.
Dive into Culture
Figueres: Visit the Dalí Theatre-Museum, considered Salvador Dalí's last great work offering visitors real insight into his captivating world.
Iconic Experience
Paris: Explore the iconic sights and streets of Paris on an orientation drive this evening.
Paris: Join a Local Specialist to discover the hidden squares and secret lanes of Paris.
Chateau Chenonceau: Visit Château de Chenonceau or commonly known as 'Ladies Castle' which got its name from the many women who influenced its construction.
Chartres: Bask in the beautiful religious architecture from the 13th century as you explore the town of Chartres.
Lyon: Join a Local Specialist for a sightseeing tour through Lyon's historic centre. Ascend Fourvière hill for panoramic views of of the city below.
Avignon: View the Pont d'Avignon and walk the medieval narrow streets of the Old Town to the Palais des Papes.
Monaco City: See the cathedral where Prince Rainier and Princess Grace were married.
Carcassonne: Explore the fortified city of Carcassonne with a Local Specialist.
Barcelona: With your Local Specialist, see the elegant Passeig de Gràcia to take in some of the city's finest Modernist architecture. Journey past the beautiful façades of the Eixample district to see the exterior of Gaudi's extraordinary masterpiece, the mesmerizing Sagrada Família.
Must-see Highlights
Explore Paris, Lyon, Carcassonne and Barcelona
Discover Avignon, French Riviera, Monaco and Arles
Visit Château de Chenonceau in the Loire Valley and the Dalí Theatre and Museum in Figueres
View Eiffel Tower and Saint-Sulpice Church in Paris, Chartres Cathedral, Château de Chambord, the Popes' Palace of Avignon, Monaco's Royal Palace and Cathedral, the Roman Amphitheatre of Arles and La Sagrada Família and Columbus Monument in Barcelona
Scenic Drive through the Loire Valley
Enquire to book this trip
Deal number: 18000633
Highlights of France and Barcelona with Madrid Extension
TRAFALGAR
From 29/08/2025 to 07/10/2025
Europe
12-day tour
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*Travel restrictions & conditions apply. Review any specific conditions stated and our general terms at Terms and Conditions. Prices & taxes are correct as at the date of publication & are subject to availability and change without notice. Prices quoted are on sale until the dates specified unless otherwise stated or sold out prior. Prices are per person.
