Tel: 1 877 691-4488
Outside the U.S. + 1 626 539-7506
Email: support@adventurelink.com
Take a Unique Adventure Through France and Spain 29 Days
From $5670 USD
Trip URL: www.adventurelink.com/
-
Take a Unique Adventure Through France and Spain
-
Take a Unique Adventure Through France and Spain
-
Take a Unique Adventure Through France and Spain
-
Take a Unique Adventure Through France and Spain
-
Take a Unique Adventure Through France and Spain
-
Take a Unique Adventure Through France and Spain
-
Take a Unique Adventure Through France and Spain
-
Take a Unique Adventure Through France and Spain
-
Take a Unique Adventure Through France and Spain
-
Take a Unique Adventure Through France and Spain
Overview
Highlights
- Duration: 29 Days
- Comfort: 66.6666666666667%
- Language: English
- Rating: 0%
- Trip ID: 128374
- Start Location: Saint-Merri, France
- End Location: Barri Gotic, Spain
-
Guaranteed:
Yes
Your Satisfaction is Guaranteed!
- AdventureLink has carefully handpicked the tour operators in our portfolio to give you the best possible selection and experience
- AdventureLink does not pay the operator until your trip completes in order to ensure the highest possible standard of care
- Primary Activities: Local Culture & Cuisine, Sightseeing
- Other Activities: Hiking, Canoeing, Road Cycling, Hot Air Ballooning, Whale Watching, Architecture, Kayaking, wine tasting, palace, museums, caves, churches
- Activity Level: Basic
Join this adventure from romantic Paris to cosmopolitan Barcelona and be captivated by the culture and history of France and Spain. Visit castles, travel through the Loire Valley on a bicycle and hike in the majestic mountains of the Pyrenees. Peruse paintings, get funky in Madrid, admire Gaudi's quirky architecture and marvel at an illustrious Moorish past in Spanish byways and boulevards before partying the night away. This trip will make sure you come away with truly unique memories of two of Europe's most popular holiday destinations.
Trip Information:
Start: Paris, France
Finish: Barcelona, Spain
Group size: Min 1 , Max 12
Ages: Min 12
Included activities:
Alcazar, Alhambra, Chateaux Villandry & Gardens, Cycling tour, Flamenco performance, Kayaking, Sarlat, La Sagrada Familia, Mezquita, Valencia Cathedral, Wine tasting Bordeaux
Note:
1. A single supplement is available on this trip.
Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrive in Paris, peruse iconic paintings in the Louvre
- Bonjour! Welcome to France.Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting in the evening of Day 1. You can arrive at any time during the day as there are no activities planned until this important meeting; please check with the hotel reception where and when it will take place, or check the reception notice boards. If you can't arrange a flight that will have you arrive at the hotel by early evening, you may wish to arrive a day early so you're able to attend. We'll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability). If you're going to be late, please inform the hotel reception. We'll be collecting your insurance details and next of kin information at this meeting, so please ensure you have all these details to provide to your leader.Rich in museums, art galleries, monuments, fashion and fabulous food, Paris offers a wealth of major sights and hidden treasures to discover. As there is limited time for sightseeing in Paris we recommend you make arrangements to arrive a few days early to see the highlights of this beautiful city.Optional ActivitiesArc de Triomphe, Paris - EUR9.50Catacombs, Paris - EUR8.00Centre Pompidou, Paris - EUR13.00Da Vinci Code walking tour, Paris - EUR20.00Eiffel Tower, Paris - EUR14.00Fat Tires bike tour, Paris - EUR28.00Louvre Museum, Paris - EUR10.00Musee d'Orsay, Paris - EUR9.00Napoleon's tomb, Paris - EUR9.00Notre Dame towers, Paris - EUR8.50Palace of Versailles gardens, Paris - FreePalace of Versailles, Paris - EUR15.00Paradis Latin cabaret show, Paris - EUR60.00Picasso Museum, Paris - EUR6.50Rodin Museum, Paris - EUR9.00Sainte Chapelle & Conciergerie, Paris - EUR8.00AccommodationHotel (1 nt)
- Days 2-3: Cycle to the breathtaking Chateau Villandry in Tours
- Travel by train to Tours in the Loire Valley (approx 3 hrs). Located between the Loire and Cher rivers, Tours is acclaimed as a 'town of art and history'. It's easy to see why as you explore the narrow streets, the outdoor cafes and bars in the main square, and the Rue Colbert and Rue Grand Marche, lined with gorgeous half-timbered houses.Bicycles are a great way to explore the gentle countryside of the Loire and its magnificent historic chateaux. Enjoy a day's cycling and tour the Chateau Villandry with its beautiful 16th-century ornamental garden. The trip is a mostly flat 36 km. Please note that you'll need appropriate footwear (no flip-flops) to cycle in.Included ActivitiesChateaux Villandry & GardensCycling tourOptional ActivitiesCathedrale St-Gatien, Tours - FreeHot air balloon, Tours - EUR250.00Musee des Beaux-Arts, Tours - EUR4.00AccommodationHotel (2 nts)
- Days 4-5: Travel by train into the Dordogne region and soak up its relaxed pace
- Journey south by train to the small medieval town of Sarlat in the Dordogne region (approx 6 hrs), known for its rich cuisine, prehistoric history and relaxed pace of life. Time seems to have stood still in Sarat-la-Caneda with a slow winding river and a town so impeccably preserved that it still resembles its charming 14th-century self.Ensure to indulge in some of the many tasty local delicacies at a streetside cafe. Ask for a 'degustation' of truffles, Confit de Canard or a host of other seasonal specialties. Paddle kayaks on the Dordogne River (approx 15km) and take in sights such as the Chateau de Beynac.Included ActivitiesKayaking, SarlatOptional ActivitiesBike hire per day, Sarlat-la-Caneda - EUR20.00Canoeing/Kayaking, Dordogne - EUR20.00Domme Caves, Dordogne - EUR8.00Gabarre tour, Dordogne - EUR8.00La Roque-Gageac Troglodyte Fort, Dordogne - EUR5.00AccommodationHotel (2 nts)
- Days 6-7: Step back in time in the World Heritage-listed Old Town of Bordeaux
- Travel by train to Bordeaux (approx 3 hrs). The capital of the Gascony region, Bordeaux was once an important port and trading centre dating back to pre-Roman times. However, most of the architecture visible today dates from the 18th century, considered the golden age of Bordeaux. In fact, so harmonious and successful was the large-scale remodelling of Bordeaux in the 18th century that it was later used as the model for Baron Hausmann's architectural transformation of Paris in the Napoleonic era. Wandering round the graceful, carefully-planned streets is a delight.Included ActivitiesWine tasting BordeauxOptional ActivitiesCAPC Musee d'Art Contemporain, Bordeaux - FreeMusee des Beaux-Arts, Bordeaux - FreePey Berland Tower - Cathedale St Andre, Bordeaux - EUR5.00AccommodationHotel (2 nts)
- Days 8-9: Head into the spectacular Pyrenees Mountains
- Head for the French Pyrenees and the spa town of Bagneres de Luchon by train and bus (approx 6 hrs). The French Pyrenees stretch from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean and form a natural 450 km long barrier between the Iberian Peninsula and the rest of Europe. As well as their spectacular natural beauty, the Pyrenees are also famous for their thermal springs, where curistes (those seeking a cure) have been coming for hundreds of years. Luchon is one such spa town, and a great base for exploring the surrounding trails. Located at the foot of the Pyrenees in a gorgeous valley, Luchon is a spa town with celebrated thermal springs and wonderful hikes up into the mountains.Take to the hills for a day of hiking in the Pyrenees. Be prepared for some steep ascents, climbing up through the forest to a fantastic viewpoint of the mountain peaks (weather permitting). The scenery is truly alpine and absolutely breathtaking - don't forget your camera! Please note that you'll need appropriate footwear (sturdy trainers or light hiking boots) for this.Included ActivitiesHiking in the PyreneesAccommodationHotel (2 nts)
- Days 10-11: Travel to Spain and make tracks for the sunny playground of San Sebastian
- Travel using a private transfer to San Sebastian (approx 5 hrs). With its great beaches and vibrant old city, San Sebastian is a fantastic place to stroll along the promenade, shop and consume tapas to your heart's content, or just soak up the sun. For a different perspective of the most central beach, La Concha, why not climb or catch a cable car to Monte Igueldo. If you crave more culture, there's plenty of time to catch a local bus (approx 1 hr) down the road to Bilbao to visit the world-famous and architecturally awesome Guggenheim Museum.Optional ActivitiesAquarium, San Sebastian - EUR10.00Catedral del Buen Pastor, San Sebastian - FreeGuggenheim Museum, Bilbao - EUR10.50Monte Igueldo cable car, San Sebastian - EUR3.00AccommodationHotel (2 nts)
- Days 12-13: Continue onwards to the walled city of Segovia
- Travel by train and bus to the remarkable walled town of Segovia in the heart of mountainous Castile (approx 5.5 hrs). With its stunning backdrop of mountains, twisting alleyways, the highest concentration of Romanesque churches in the world and delicious local cuisine, Segovia is atmospheric, photogenic and memorable.Take a sightseeing walk of the World Heritage-listed old town, taking in the breathtaking and romantic Alcazar castle, an inspiration to Walt Disney, and where Queen Isabel met with Columbus before he set sail on the epic journey that lead to the discovery of the Americas.With the largest and best preserved Roman aqueduct of its kind anywhere in the world and a towering 16th century cathedral, there's plenty of history to discover during free time in Segovia. For something different, there are two rivers bordering the medieval walls, and an extensive green belt park with miles of shaded walks.Included ActivitiesAlcazarOptional ActivitiesCasa de los Picos, Segovia - FreeCity walls, Segovia - EUR1.50Esteban Vicente Museum, Segovia - EUR2.40Segovia Fortress, Segovia - EUR4.00Segovia Museum, Segovia - EUR1.20Zuloaga Museum, Segovia - EUR1.20AccommodationHotel (2 nts)
- Days 14-15: Discover the captivating city of Madrid and its exquisite architecture
- Journey by train to Madrid (approx 1 hr). With incredible restaurants, art galleries, shopping and nightlife on offer, Madrid is a truly world-class city that exudes confidence and style through every pore. While away hours on the Paseo del Arte, or Art Walk, for a panoramic perspective of Western art history. Start with the Museo del Prado, one of the world's finest collections of European art from the 12th-19th centuries and an unmissable stop on any art tour. Discover modern Spanish masters, including Picasso and Dali, in the Museo Reina Sofia's 20th century collection. Finish with the Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza, which spans eight centuries of European painting.As this is a combination trip, your group leader and the composition of your group may change at this location. There will be a group meeting to discuss the next stage of your itinerary and you're welcome to attend, as this is a great chance to meet your new fellow travelers.Optional ActivitiesAbono Paseo del Arte (3 museum combo voucher), Madrid - EUR17.60Museo del Prado, Madrid - EUR8.00Museo Reina Sofia, Madrid - EUR6.00Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza, Madrid - EUR8.00Real Jardín Botánico, Madrid - EUR2.50AccommodationHotel (2 nts)
- Days 16-17: For the best view of Granada at sunset, head to the Mirador de San Nicolas
- Travel by train to Granada (approx 2.5 hrs). The Andaluz city of Granada is home to the magnificent Alhambra. Take a walk around the Albaicin, the old Arab quarter, a labyrinth of crooked streets with alleyways, fountains, plazas, whitewashed houses and villas. If you are feeling energetic continue on and watch the spectacular sunset from the most famous viewpoint in Granada - the Mirador de San Nicolas, located at the top of Albaicin's steep streets. Visit the Renaissance cathedral with its ornate facade and gold-and-white interior, dating from the 16th century.Explore the Alhambra Palace, which was first built by the Moors as a fortress. Its instantly recognizable exterior hides richly decorated rooms and luxurious gardens with bubbling fountains, and a walk through the compound gives us an idea of the decadent lifestyle the Moorish kings used to enjoyed.Granada was one of the region's most important cities during the Muslim rule of Spain and the Alhambra is a very good example of this period. The Alhambra is made up of three parts: the Alcazaba, the 11th-century Muslim wing where you can get spectacular aerial views from the tops of its towers; the Palacio Nazaries, the center of the complex; and Generalife, the summer palace of the sultans.Included ActivitiesAlhambraOptional ActivitiesAlhambra Gardens, Granada - EUR6.00Jose Guerrero Centre, Granada - FreeMirador de San Nicolas, Granada - FreeRenaissance Catedral and Capilla Real, Granada - EUR3.00Science Park Planetarium, Granada - EUR2.00Science Park, Granada - EUR5.00AccommodationHotel (2 nts)
- Days 18-19: Visit Seville and be swept up in the emotions of a fiery flamenco performance
- Travel by train to Seville, one of the most vibrant cities in Spain (approx 2.5 hrs). Now the capital of Andalucia, Seville was one of the first conquests of the Moors. After the fall of the Cordoba Caliphate in the 11th century, under whose direction it previously lay, it became the most powerful city in 'Al Andalus'. Near the centre of the city is the evocative 'Giralda', an architectural masterpiece dating from the 12th century. Originally built as a minaret for the central Mosque in Seville, this Mosque was later destroyed, and it is now the bell-tower for the enormous cathedral. Close by is the magnificent 'Alcazar', a complex of palaces dating back from Roman times and later used by both Moorish and Christian rulers. It has fine examples of Moorish and 'Mudejar' architecture, rivalling Granada's 'Alhambra', and some lovely gardens. After the Christian re-conquest Seville became famed as the gateway to the 'New World'. Christopher Columbus negotiated here with Queen Isabella to fund his epic voyage to the Americas, bringing her back untold riches and making Seville one of the wealthiest cities in Europe.Seville is renowned for its oranges, tapas and flamenco - all three are ingrained in the fabric of the city and its proud people. Explore the world's largest Gothic cathedral. You can also the climb the cathedral's adjoining 76-metre Moorish tower, known as La Giralda, well worth it for the excellent views of the city and surrounding area (be prepared for a line-up). Visit the Alcazar - a magnificent palace dating from Moorish times. Seville is the tapas capital of Spain, so jump in and try some of the many tasty treats on offer in the evenings. Catch a glimpse of true, local flamenco - filled with emotion and drama, it's a real highlight.Included ActivitiesFlamenco performanceOptional ActivitiesAlcazar, Seville - EUR8.50Andalusian Contemporary Art Centre, Seville - EUR1.80Archeological Museum, Seville - EUR1.50Art and Popular Customs Museum, Seville - EUR1.50Casa de Pilatos, Seville - EUR8.00Catedral and Giralda Tower, Seville - EUR7.50Indias Archive, Seville - FreeMuseum of Fine Arts, Seville - EUR1.50Real Maestranza Bullring, Seville - EUR4.00Santa Paula Convent, Seville - EUR2.00Torre del Oro, Seville - EUR2.00AccommodationHotel (2 nts)
- Days 20-21: Travel to Costa de la Luz and relax on the beaches of Tarifa
- Travel south by bus to the Costa de la Luz (Coast of Light) on the western side of the Andalucian coastline, which faces the Mediterranean and North Africa (approx 3 hrs). Our base is Tarifa, a laid-back and highly photogenic beach town endowed with spectacular rocky scenery, a sea fortress, a lighthouse and plenty of character.You have a free day to explore the beautiful coastline and beaches. There are plenty of options:Go whale and dolphin watching.Take a day trip to Northern Africa and the cosmopolitan town of Tangier in Morocco, just 45 minutes away by ferry.Enjoy a day tour across the border to the British territory of Gibraltar, home to the famous Rock of Gibraltar.Optional ActivitiesGibraltar day trip, Tarifa - EUR48.00Morocco day trip, Tarifa - EUR48.00Whale watching, Tarifa - EUR30.00AccommodationHotel (2 nts)
- Days 22-23: Leave the Andalucian hills and journey to Ronda
- Leave the coast and head inland by bus and train to the Andalucian hills and the charming town of Ronda (approx 4 hrs). Ronda is the birthplace of bullfighting in Spain. The highlight here is the spectacular Puente Nuevo (New Bridge), one of the most photographed structures in all of Spain. Built in 1751, it bridges the 100-metre deep gorge that splits the town in two. On one side of the bridge is the old Moorish town with many historic buildings including the House of the Moorish King, on the other side is the much newer El Mercadillo, and to the east of the town are well-preserved Arab Baths and of course the famous Plaza de Toros.The Plaza de Toros is one of the oldest bullfighting rings in the country. Adjoining the bullring is the Bullfighting Museum, which displays relics of Ronda's bullfighting history. The gardens behind the bullring offer the best panoramic views over the mountains.Please note that while bullfighting is significant in Spanish culture and history, its practice is contrary to our Responsible Travel philosophy. Intrepid does not support or attend bullfights, as the bulls are subject to torment and fear and are often killed inhumanely. Long a controversial issue in Spain, a landmark decision in July 2010 has banned bullfighting in the state of Catalonia from January 1, 2012.The surrounding mountains once proved a perfect hideout for bandits and smugglers and a visit to the Museum of Bandits gives an entertaining insight into their history.Optional ActivitiesBandits Museum, Ronda - EUR3.00La Ronda Bullring, Ronda - EUR5.00Santa Maria la Mayor Church, Ronda - EUR2.00Meals Included2 BreakfastsAccommodationHotel (2 nts)
- Day 24: Discover the mix of cultures in the architecture and cuisine of the southern city of Cordoba
- Travel by train to Cordoba. Cordoba has a mix of influences with Muslim, Jewish and Christian faiths combining in architecture, cuisine and culture. Visit the famous Mezquita - once the third largest mosque in the world and one of the most beautiful. It was consecrated into a Roman Catholic cathedral in the 13th century when the Christians reconquered Cordoba.The evening is free to sample more delicious Spanish cuisine. Gazpacho with boiled eggs on top is a specialty of Cordoba, as is rabo de toro (oxtail soup). There are also plenty of good-value eateries in the Juderia (Jewish Quarter).Included ActivitiesMezquitaOptional ActivitiesAlcazar, Cordoba - EUR2.00Palacio Museo de Viana, Cordoba - EUR6.00AccommodationHotel (1 nt)
- Days 25-26: Travel further north to Valencia, Spain's third-largest city
- Travel by train to Valencia. Long the Spanish gateway to the Mediterranean, Valencia has the special charm of a sea port city. Busy markets, beautiful beaches, spectacular mountains and a fascinating mix of old and new await us. Visit the Cathedral, which houses what is claimed to be the Holy Grail, the chalice Jesus drank from at the Last Supper.For something a little more quirky, visit the Museum of the Fallas, which contains a history of the Valencia fire festival in the form of giant papier mache figures that over the years have been spared from the burning.There are many fine parks and gardens, or you may want to head to the beach of Playa de la Malvarrosa to soak up some sun. To try the paella that Valencia is famous for, do as the locals do and head to the restaurant area of Las Arenas for a hearty and reasonably priced lunch.Included ActivitiesValencia CathedralOptional ActivitiesFallas Museum, Valencia - EUR2.00Gonzalez Marti Museum, Valencia - EUR2.40Miguelete Tower, Valencia - EUR2.00Principe Filipe Science Museum, Valencia - EUR7.50The Silk Exchange, Valencia - EUR2.00Valencian Institute of Modern Art, Valencia - EUR2.00AccommodationHotel (2 nts)
- Days 27-29: Tour ends in the vibrant city of Barcelona
- Travel by train to Barcelona (approx 5 hrs). Spain's cosmopolitan second city, Barcelona offers ground-breaking art and architecture, stylish shopping, superb dining and non-stop nightlife. Join your leader on a orientation walk past some of the main sights including a visit to Gaudi's bizarre La Sagrada Familia Cathedral.There may be some free time to spend visiting the city's museums and cathedrals, or shopping. Visit the old Gothic Quarter with its labyrinth of streets, the Picasso Museum, wander the Rambla, the tree-lined pedestrian boulevard, or take the funicular to the top of Montjuic or Tibidabo for panoramic views of Barcelona and the harbor. Come the evening regroup for your final night and say adiós to your new friends.There are no activities planned for the final day and you are able to depart the accommodation at any time. Please check the 'Finishing Point Hotel' section for checkout times and luggage storage possibilities.Included ActivitiesLa Sagrada FamiliaOptional ActivitiesAndean-Amazonian Ethnographic Museum, Barcelona - FreeCasa Batllo, Barcelona - EUR17.80Cathedral visit, Barcelona - EUR5.00Guell Palace, Barcelona - EUR10.00Museum of City History, Barcelona - EUR7.00Museum of Gaudi, Barcelona - EUR5.50National Art Museum of Catalonia, Barcelona - EUR8.50Old Santa Creu Hospital, Barcelona - FreePicasso Museum, Barcelona - EUR9.00AccommodationHotel (2 nts)
Nuts & Bolts
Trip Includes
- 8 breakfasts
Trip Excludes
Trip ID#: 128374
CANCELLATIONS: 20% cancellation fee applied if cancelled 60 days prior to departure. Cancellations within 60 days are 100% non-cancelable
Experts
Kelly Tompkins
About Kelly
Kelly is the Founder of AdventureLink and a passionate adventure traveler. He specializes in cycling and trekking tours but can help you in a wide variety of activities and destinations.
- Destination expertise All Countries
- Activity expertise All Activities
- Recommended trips
Operator
For the specifics on this tour operator, please contact AdventureLink directly.
Email to Friend
Sending contact request... Please wait.
Enter your phone number below and we will call you immediatly and connect you with Kelly.
There is no charge to talk to Kelly or for the phone call. It's 100% free. We want to help you plan an unforgettable trip.
Thanks for calling! Your phone will ring shortly.
(e.g. romantic getaway, hiking trip, cycling trip)
Let us know what you want to do and why you're doing it. Are there any goals you want to achieve on this trip?
Enter your phone number below and we will call you immediately and connect you with one of our Expert Agents!
There is no charge for the phone call or to talk to one of our Expert Agents -- it's 100% free! We want to help you plan an unforgettable trip.
Thanks for calling! Your phone will ring shortly.
Enter your phone number below and we will call you immediately and connect you with customer service.
Thanks for calling! Your phone will ring shortly.
Authenticating... Please wait.
Your email or password are incorrect. Please try again.
- Largest Selection Choose from over 14,000 adventures across the globe.
- Best Operators Each trip and tour operator is hand selected and vetted by our curators.
- Guaranteed Trips We don’t pay the tour operator until your trip completes in order to make sure you get what you paid for.
Registering you... Please wait.
Already registered?
Login
By signing up you agree to all AdventureLink terms of membership
You have selected two trips. You can compare these trips or add another.
Loading...
The maximum number of trips you can compare is three.
Click here to exit or Click below to compare trips.
Our tour operators are happy to assist you in creating just the right trip; fill out the form below and we'll give you a custom quote.
month / day / year
Share this Trip.