Two Countries in One Day: Spain & France

Exploring Two Countries in One Day: Spain & France

Imagine ticking off two countries in a single day, all beyond the typical city sights. This full-day tour from Barcelona offers an engaging way to enjoy both Spain and France without the hassle of planning multiple trips. With excellent reviews, a small-group setting, and thoughtfully curated stops, it promises a memorable and authentic experience.

What we love about this tour is its comfortable private transportation, the knowledge of guides like Guillermo and Matilde, and the chance to see stunning coastal views and historic sites. One thing to keep in mind is that the tour runs for about 8 to 9 hours, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with a full day of sightseeing.

This trip is perfect if you’re craving a blend of cultural exploration and scenic beauty, especially if you enjoy history, film locations, or coastal villages. However, it’s always good to have your passport on hand for border crossings, and a sense of adventure helps with the longer travel stretches.

Key Points

• Small-group experience enhances personal interaction and flexibility.
• Comfortable private transportation makes the long drive enjoyable.
• Guided insights by knowledgeable guides like Guillermo and Matilde enrich the visit.
• Flexible free time in Collioure allows for lunch, shopping, or relaxing.
• Visit iconic filming locations in Girona, including Game of Thrones sites.
• Cost-effective at around $112 per person, considering the extensive itinerary.

A Detailed Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point: Passeig de Gràcia in Barcelona

We begin at the lively Passeig de Gràcia, a hub of architecture, shopping, and culture. Here, the group gathers, and the tour kicks off around 8:30 am. From this central location, the journey to Girona begins with a scenic drive, giving travelers a taste of Catalonia outside the city. The drive itself is about two hours, during which the guide shares history and fun facts, setting the tone for the day ahead.

Crossing the Pont de les Peixateries Velles

The highlight of the drive is crossing the Pont de les Peixateries Velles, built in 1877 by none other than Gustave Eiffel, the same genius behind the Eiffel Tower. This iconic bridge offers a perfect photo opp and signals your entry into Girona’s historic charm. Reviewers like Bernadette tell us that even in the rain, the scenery and guide’s commentary made the experience memorable.

Exploring Girona’s Streets & the Cathedral

While entrance to the Girona Cathedral isn’t included in the ticket, we’ll walk around its exterior, marveling at the second widest gothic nave in the world. The surrounding streets are a treasure trove for photos, with many Game of Thrones filming spots such as Pujada de Sant Dòmenec—a favorite for fans. Reviewers like Regina appreciated the guide Matilde’s extensive knowledge, which made wandering the old town even more engaging.

Transition to France & the Charm of Collioure

After soaking in Girona’s historic atmosphere, the group departs for Collioure, France, about an hour’s drive away. This coastal village has a reputation for its artistic ambiance and medieval charm. As you approach, you’ll notice the Château Royal de Collioure and the colorful buildings lining the Mediterranean.

Free Time in Collioure

With about two hours to explore, you can stroll the harborside streets, enjoy lunch, or simply relax on the beach, especially during warmer months when bringing swimwear and a towel is recommended. Reviewers like Ellie and Winnie loved the opportunity to soak in the seaside atmosphere and shop at local boutiques or visit the Modern Art Museum. The medieval Château offers stunning views, and the Notre-Dame-des-Anges Church’s bell tower doubles as a lighthouse—an iconic sight.

Return Journey & Additional Free Time

After your leisurely exploration, the bus heads back to Barcelona, with another two-hour ride. Some travelers, like Howard, suggest not spending too much time at the castle and instead enjoying the shops or the beach. The comfortable vehicle, often praised for its cleanliness and air conditioning, ensures a pleasant return trip.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

Guides Who Know the Area Inside Out

Guests consistently highlight the expertise of guides like Guillermo, Matilde, and even ‘Papa Bear’, as reviewers fondly call him. Their ability to weave stories, answer questions, and keep the group engaged is a key part of the trip’s success. Nandha loved that Matilde’s descriptions made the cities feel alive, while others like Jamie mention Antoine’s engaging storytelling.

Authentic Small-Group Experience

Limited to a maximum of 7 travelers, the tour offers intimacy and flexibility larger groups can’t match. Reviewers felt this setup fostered a friendly atmosphere, making it easier to ask questions and share comments.

Scenic & Cultural Highlights

From Girona’s Game of Thrones filming locations to the colorful coastal streets of Collioure, the journey offers visually stunning and culturally rich sites. The balance of inland and seaside sights makes for versatile photo opportunities and varied experiences.

Value for Money

At about $112, this tour delivers an extensive itinerary that would be hard to replicate on your own at such a reasonable price. The inclusion of private transport, guided insights, and free time in Collioure makes it cost-effective for those wanting a hassle-free day of discovery.

Practical Details & Tips

• The tour departs from Passeig de Gràcia at 8:30 am, so arriving a little earlier ensures a smooth start.
• It lasts around 8 to 9 hours, making for a full but manageable day of sightseeing.
• Bring your passport or ID—some reviews remind travelers of border checks, though they’re typically straightforward.
• Prepare for variable weather; during summer, packing swimwear and a towel is recommended for beach time.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, with a focus on comfortable walking and scenic drives.
• Remember to bring euros if you want to buy souvenirs or enjoy local cafes in Collioure, as some activities may not accept cards.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This tour is ideal for history buffs, Game of Thrones fans, and coastal lovers looking for a full, engaging day outside Barcelona. If you enjoy guided trips with knowledgeable hosts and small-group intimacy, you’ll find this highly rewarding. It’s also great for those unsure how to organize border-crossing day trips or wanting a balanced mix of sightseeing and leisure.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed, less structured day or are sensitive to long drives, you might want to consider shorter, more localized excursions. Also, travelers with limited mobility should note the walking involved around Girona’s historic streets.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers find it appropriate, especially since it’s a small-group setting with flexible free time. Just keep in mind the full day and walking involved.

Do I need to bring my passport?
It’s recommended to carry your passport or ID, as some reviewers mention police controls at the border crossings.

How much time is spent in each location?
You’ll spend about 2 hours in Girona, including a walk around the town and photo stops at key sites, and approximately 2 hours in Collioure for lunch and exploring.

Are entrance fees included?
The tour includes a guided look at Girona’s exterior and the French town; however, entrance to Girona Cathedral costs around €12 and isn’t included.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are a must. During summer, pack sunscreen, a hat, and swimwear if you plan to enjoy the beach in Collioure.

Can I join if I don’t speak Spanish or French?
Yes, the guides speak English and are skilled at providing engaging commentary suitable for international travelers.

Is this a good value for the price?
Absolutely. For roughly $112, you get private transportation, guided insights, scenic stops, and free time, making it a well-rounded day trip without hidden costs.

Final Thoughts

This Two Countries in One Day tour from Barcelona strikes a fine balance between structured sightseeing and leisure. It offers a well-paced itinerary covering historic Girona, iconic film locations, and the charming French coast of Collioure—all in one seamless day. The small-group approach ensures a more personal experience, ideal for travelers who enjoy engaging guides and insider knowledge.

The value for money is clear when considering the extensive sights, private transport, and the flexibility of free time in Collioure. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a film fan, or simply craving a scenic escape, this trip provides a taste of both Spain and France without the stress of logistics.

For those comfortable with a full day of travel and exploration, it’s a fantastic way to make the most of your trip to Barcelona while discovering two beautiful countries in one go.