One-Week Self-Drive Road Trip in Spain and France With Itinerary from Barcelona to Carcassonne, Nimes, and Figueres
Description
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Description
Set off on an exciting multi-country adventure lasting 8 days. The journey covers Spain and France, showcasing stunning scenery at every stop.
With this ultimate European tour package, you'll experience the essence of 2 incredible countries, each offering a tapestry of experiences that will leave you with lasting memories. You'll stay 5 nights in Spain and 2 nights in France.
In the first leg of your journey, you'll find yourself in the heart of Spain, a land filled with treasures waiting to be discovered. You’ll collect your chosen rental car in the city of Barcelona and begin your adventure from there. Explore Barcelona, Girona, Figueres, and Besalú, where picturesque vistas and cultural gems await your exploration.
Next, prepare to be mesmerized by the diverse and vibrant landscapes of France. Immerse yourself in the allure of Carcassonne, Arles, Les Baux-de-Provence, Nimes, and Sagriès, where every street tells a story.
Your multi-country road trip brings you close to some of Europe’s most iconic attractions and landmarks, such as Carcassonne’s Cité De Carcassonne. From must-see attractions to breathtaking viewpoints, this meticulously crafted itinerary promises you a glimpse into the unique features of this region in Europe.
Throughout your tour, you’ll stay at some of the best accommodations along your route. Our recommendations always include options with varying levels of comfort, ranging from 3 to 5-star hotels that cater to various preferences and budgets.
Your ultimate multi-country road trip across Spain and France will not be complete without indulging in some retail therapy! Embark on a quest for a rare souvenir in each destination. Beyond the thrill of buying unique goods, it’s also an amazing opportunity to immerse yourself in local customs and interact with friendly locals at every stop.
By booking this holiday package, you can save yourself from the tedious task of researching and planning your road trip in Europe. We'll handle all the travel arrangements for your 8-day self-drive adventure in Spain and France. With our expertise, you can enjoy a hassle-free experience and focus on immersing yourself in incredible destinations without the stress of organizing every detail. This holiday deal also comes with 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide accessible via our mobile app to assist you throughout your journey.
Discover breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultures, and iconic landmarks in multiple European countries on one epic road trip! Travel across borders and experience the freedom of the open road as you create lifelong memories in Spain and France.
Choose your travel dates today and start planning your unforgettable multi-country road trip with Guide to Europe!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Barcelona - Arrival day
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- Parc de la Ciutadella
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Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Spain and France begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of Barcelona in Spain. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Barcelona for 3 nights.
Catch an early flight to Spain to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Barcelona before it’s time to hit the road and drive to your next destination. Discover the city’s rich history, breathtaking sights, and lively atmosphere with visits to the most popular attractions.
Something that makes Barcelona the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding park, Parc De La Ciutadella. This local gem has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 71,839 visitors.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Barcelona. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Spain. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the city of Barcelona boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of Spain.
Enjoy a lovely meal at 2254 Barcelona Restaurant, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Porteño Bar is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Cerveseria Catalana. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Barcelona tonight.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Casa Gràcia, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Hemingway Gin & Cocktail Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Bloody Mary Cocktail Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Your multi-country road trip in Spain and France has only just begun. Brace yourself for more exciting days to come as you cross country borders in the comfort of your rental car and discover the most unique attractions, activities, and foods of each destination.
Day 2
- Barcelona
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Drive 29 km, 1 hour 7 min
- CosmoCaixa Barcelona
- Park Güell
- Sagrada Família
- La Pedrera - Casa Milà
- Casa Batlló
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Day 2 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Barcelona. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 2 nights more before hitting the road again.
Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Barcelona today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Cosmocaixa Museum Of Science. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 41,325 visitors.
Next, discover the charms of the popular Park Güell. This incredible attraction and park holds an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, thanks to 200,348 visitors.
According to travelers in Barcelona, the extraordinary Sagrada Família is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and church gets around 4,527,427 visits annually and is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 262,289 visitors.
As the day moves along, don’t miss out the incredible museum, La Pedrera. Up to 95,521 visitors have rated it an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.
If you’re up for another attraction, check out the popular museum, Casa Batlló. This attraction is rated an average 4.7 out of 5 stars among 150,893 visitors.
As the day slows down and turns into evening, we encourage you to indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Barcelona. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.
Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Barcelona by reserving a table at Lasarte. Renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional creative menu. For a different taste experience, head to ABaC, recognized for its delicious creative dishes. This 3-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Cocina Hermanos Torres, a local favorite known for its delightful creative cuisine in Barcelona. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 3 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning creative foodies seeking culinary excellence.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Les Gens Que J'aime, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Bobby's Free offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Old Fashioned Gin Tonic & Cocktail Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
As the night falls in Barcelona, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lie back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.
Day 3
- Barcelona
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Drive 9 km, 1 hour 5 min
- Magic Fountain of Montjuïc
- Mercado de La Boqueria
- Cathedral of Barcelona
- Palau de la Música Catalana
- Arc de Triomf
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Wake up and see what day 3 of your great European road trip in Spain and France has in store for you! You will be staying in Barcelona for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.
Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated fountain and attraction in Barcelona — Magic Fountain Of Montjuïc. About 86,567 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.
The popular Mercat De La Boqueria is another top sight in Barcelona that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved food market in the area, rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 181,799 visitors.
Cathedral Of The Holy Cross And Saint Eulalia is a spectacular church and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Barcelona, earning an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 68,874 enchanted visitors.
As the day moves along, be sure to make time to drop by the magnificent Palau De La Música Catalana. Because of its allure and charm, around 45,390 visitors have rated this attraction and concert hall an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.
Discover the allure of Arc De Triomf. Echoing its popularity, 85,715 travelers have awarded this famous monument and sightseeing spot an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars.
Experience shopping bliss at Barcelona as you explore Las Ramblas. Take a leisurely stroll through unique and shops, where local treasures are waiting to be found. Beyond shopping, Las Ramblas offers more options, including restaurants, unique attractions, key services, and vibrant events.
As the sun sets on day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Barcelona's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Spain to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Barcelona has them.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Els 4Gats, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Bar El Born? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Ocaña as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Barcelona.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Bar Manchester, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Dry Martini offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Barcelona. Icebarcelona is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Celebrate day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 4
- Barcelona
- Girona
- Carcassonne
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Drive 313 km, 3 hours 49 min
- Cathedral of Girona
- Parc de la Devesa
- Cité de Carcassonne
- Château comtal de Carcassonne
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Dive into day 4 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Spain and France. Today's main destinations are Girona in Spain and Carcassonne in France, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Carcassonne. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
When you’ve had your share of Barcelona, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Girona. Your travel time is around 1 hour 14 min.
Girona Cathedral is a travelers’ favorite in Girona, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 18,465 visitors.
In Girona, don’t miss Parc De La Devesa, a great park and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 9,622 reviews.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive towards France, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Carcassonne. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 7 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
In Carcassonne, the extraordinary Cité De Carcassonne awaits. This attraction is a valued castle that boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 76,968 travelers' reviews.
Another of the best travel destinations in Carcassonne is the spectacular Château Comtal. This attraction is a castle that is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 8,823 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.
An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Carcassonne’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.
Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of France's delectable cuisine at one of Carcassonne's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enhance your vacation experience by enjoying the local nightlife or unwinding with a drink or two in the town’s most recommended bars.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, La Rapière is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Le Domaine d'Auriac. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Carcassonne tonight.
Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Spain and France! Enjoy your evening in Carcassonne to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the town center, or simply relaxing.
Day 5
- Carcassonne
- Arles
- Les Baux-de-Provence
- Nîmes
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Drive 289 km, 4 hours 1 min
- L'espace Van Gogh
- Roman Theatre of Arles
- Arles Amphitheatre
- Château des Baux-de-Provence
- Carrières des Lumières
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Arles in France. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Nimes, your home for 1 night.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Arles, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Carcassonne to Arles may take around 2 hours 18 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Arles, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Something that makes Arles the perfect holiday destination is that the town offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding cultural center, L'espace Van Gogh. This local gem has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 2,003 visitors.
The famous Roman Theatre Of Arles is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Arles's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 1,900 travelers have rated this incredible archeological site and travel destination an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in reviews.
Arles is also home to the extraordinary Arles Amphitheatre, which boasts a 4.4 out of 5 star rating in 13,060 traveler reviews.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Arles, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Les Baux-de-Provence. This drive usually takes around 27 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Les Baux-de-Provence today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Château Des Baux-de-provence. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 13,346 visitors.
Next, discover the charms of the popular Carrières Des Lumières. This incredible attraction and art installation holds an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, thanks to 22,791 visitors.
After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Nimes. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.
As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the city of Nimes boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of France.
Enjoy a delicious meal at La Galerie, a top-rated dining destination in Nimes. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Annaba Café, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hôtel des Tuileries. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Nimes this evening.
Continue your lively evening at La Bonne Mousse, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. O’flaherty’s is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, News Café ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Go to bed happy and look forward to a good night’s sleep as soon as your head hits the pillow. Your European tour continues tomorrow!
Day 6
- Nîmes
- Sagriès
- Figueres
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Drive 329 km, 4 hours 17 min
- Jardin de La Fontaine
- Haribo Candy Museum
- Pont du Gard
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On day 6 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Spain and France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Nimes in France. When you’re not exploring the town and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Figueres, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Nimes, including the outstanding Jardin De La Fontaine. Having an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 15,878 reviews, this fascinating park and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.
After soaking in Nimes’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Sagriès. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 33 min. When you arrive in Sagriès, it's time to take a break from the road.
You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Sagriès, including the outstanding Haribo Candy Museum. Having an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars in 17,011 reviews, this fascinating museum and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. This drive usually takes around 15 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
One place travelers keep coming back to in La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard is the magnificent Pont Du Gard. Around 29,439 visitors have rated this excellent monument and travel destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.
Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in Figueres.
If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Spain and France, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Figueres. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.
Take in the ambiance of Figueres as this vacation day slowly comes to an end. Whether you’re going bar hopping or you decide on a quiet night at your hotel, you have another exciting day of your road trip to look forward to!
Day 7
- Figueres
- Besalú
- Barcelona
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Drive 156 km, 2 hours 2 min
- Toy museum of Catalonia
- Dalí Theatre-Museum
- Gala - Salvador Dalí Foundation
- Besalú Bridge
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On day 7 of your multi-country road trip across Spain and France, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places to see in Figueres in Spain. In the evening, you’ll end up in Barcelona, where you will stay for 1 night.
A tour of Figueres is not complete without a visit to the famous Toy Museum Of Catalonia. This incredible museum and attraction has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,431 travelers.
Make the most of your Figueres travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Dalí Theatre And Museum. This museum and unique destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 44,728 travelers.
You can then move on to the incredible Gala - Salvador Dalí Foundation for an experience worth remembering. This local museum and standout destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 938 visitors.
Besalú’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Figueres behind. This drive usually takes around 24 min. Besalú welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Something that makes Besalú the perfect holiday destination is that the town offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding historical landmark, Besalú Bridge. This local gem has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 21,738 visitors.
Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Barcelona. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.
By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Barcelona. From mouthwatering restaurants to happening bars, we've got the inside scoop on where to eat and drink at this stop on your multi-country road trip across Spain and France.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at ÁNDELE Santa Fe, a top-rated dining spot in Barcelona. If you're in the mood for something new, try ARTiSA Barcelona, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restaurant Sant Martí. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Barcelona.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Torre Rosa, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Bobby Gin offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Barcelona. Generator Barcelona is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Celebrate day 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 8
- Barcelona - Departure day
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- Plaça de Catalunya
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On day 8 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Barcelona before it’s time to leave.
Depending on how much time you have before your departure, you may want to engage in some last-minute shopping or souvenir hunting. Get some unique items to remind you of your great European road trip across Spain and France. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.
Maximize your last day in Spain and go on a shopping spree in Barcelona’s shopping center, the lively Maremagnum. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Spain.
Something that makes Barcelona the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding public square, Plaça De Catalunya. This local gem has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 192,246 visitors.
Get a last taste of Spain’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Barcelona and enjoy what may be your last vacation meal of this trip. Look forward to recreating these distinct culinary experiences in your own kitchen later to remind you of your unforgettable road trip across Spain and France.
The time has come to say farewell to Barcelona for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 8-day European road trip in Spain and France with fond memories. Safe travels!
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