France and Spain Tours & Trip Packages

France and Spain Tours & Trips

7 France and Spain trips. Tours from 12 tour companies. 0 reviews.

7 Trips match your criteria (1 - 7 shown)

Voyages to Antiquity: Exploring History’s Grandeur in France and Spain
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4.4/5 Great
100+ reviews
Large Ship Cruise
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Visits

Barcelona, Cádiz, Madrid, Seville, Valencia

Highlights

  • Delve into France’s medieval history at Avignon’s Papal Palace and on the narrow streets of fortified Carcassonne.
  • Examine the exquisite interiors and lush gardens of the Alhambra, a magnificent Moorish palace.
  • Contrast the proud cultures of several Spanish cities including Barcelona, Madrid and Seville.

Themes

50 plus, Education / Learning, Small Ship Cruise

What travelers are saying

"Our family of four, including two adult children, took the Bicycling: Day Trips to Paradise in Canada. This trip is entirely outsourced to the owners of the inn, there are no Road Scholar employees involved in the trip. Two of us have taken bicycle trips all over the world and the bicycling component of this trip was disorganized, haphazard and almost unsafe. We all filled out forms giving details regarding our bicycle fitting months before the trip. On the first day, the leader Stephen, went around the room and asked the same questions and said everyone would get fitted in the morning before we began the first ride. The morning brought a rack of bikes, all different types in various levels of readiness. There were road bikes, hybrid bikes, mountain bikes and e-bikes. The rides were all on paved surfaces and the mountain bikes were heavy and the additional suspension added weight. The bike I received had rust on the chain and rear sprocket. When I asked about it, was told they were waiting for another van to show up with tools and equipment. Once it arrived, they gave me the lubricant to spray on the rust. My wife’s bike would not shift into the high gear on the front sprocket. Instead of adjusting the derailleur, they suggested spraying it with lubricant. Our one son is over six feet and needed a larger frame bike, even though he detailed it in the bike form months ago, there was no bike to fit him. One of the guides, then went home and brought a larger bike that was a full suspension mountain bike for him. The bike was very heavy, hard to control on the road and he felt unsafe. After two days, one of the guides convinced Stephen that they could adjust a hybrid bike to fit him. Clearly there was no work done to prepare the bikes for the trip. Many of the bikes needed adjusting and all needed lubricant to function easily. For every day, there was a tray of snacks placed out for us to take along the ride. None of the bikes had any baskets or attached bags, so if you didn’t bring a small day pack, there was no way to carry the snacks. For lunch on the rides, they brought exactly one sandwich for each rider. Since most of us get hungry while doing a day of exercise, it would have been helpful to have a few extras. On one day, they ran out of sandwiches and one of the leaders that were riding with us did not get lunch. Do NOT take this trip if you are expecting it to be a bicycling trip. We have used VBT and Discovery Bicycle Tours many times over the past 25 years and they are excellent bike tour companies. Lastly, after sharing these details with Road Scholar after the trip, their response was weak at best. After doing the full reviews and having to call them, their response was to give us $200 credit after spending $8000 on this trip. Not only was that insulting, they assumed that I would take another trip with their organization."

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Fátima, Lourdes & Shrines of Spain - Faith-Based Travel
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4/5 Great
100+ reviews
Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Barcelona, Lisbon

Themes

50 plus, Cultural, Religious

What travelers are saying

"We've taken over 10 group tours using Cosmos and Gate1. This trip last month, 9000 was not very good. -During booking, incorrect information was given about airport-hotel transfers -The whispers (listening devices) didn't work from the get-go, so no whispers were used during the 13 day trip. - Porters are no longer hired to bring your luggage to and from your room. (Very elderly had to handle their own luggage. Our friends had to help many of them.) -A few days into the trip one couple left. At the end of the trip we found out they had covid. Cosmos did not let us know; a few people weren't feeling well and two of our friends then tested positive. -One hotel was awful and not even up to "budget" standards -Many of the stops had castles, churches... but were not included, so be sure to count that in when pricing.  don't plan to use Cosmos ever again. Gate1 is the best in my opinion. When my husband's passport was stolen, they assigned someone to go with him to the embassy, translate, etc...It was above and beyond what we expected  "

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Human Origins: Southwest France and Northern Spain
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3.5/5 Great
30 reviews
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Luxury - 5 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Basque Country, Santillana del Mar, Vézère Valley

Highlights

  • Examine the Paleolithic art of two UNESCO World Heritage–listed cave regions: France’s Vézère Valley and the northern coast of Spain.
  • Meet leading archaeologists and anthropologists for talks and private tours of cave sites.
  • Visit Castel-Merle with Isabelle Castanet, whose family has excavated the site for generations.
  • Explore Sarlat, France, and Santillana del Mar, Spain, two of Europe's best-preserved medieval villages.

Themes

50 plus, Cultural, Education / Learning

What travelers are saying

"We booked a National Geographic expedition Holland and Belgium by River. The promotional literature promised a 14-day deposit refund window. The “invoice” was marked “non-refundable” deposit. We completed the National Geographic Traveler Information. About 8 days later we received the “Travel Agreement” to be signed. We both approved and signed the National Geographic documents. A Cruise Line Travel agreement was enclosed but had no signature line. This document contained language which was unacceptable. We submitted the signed NatGeo documents. The following day we canceled the trip due to the unacceptable Cruise Line language. Cancellation was made 12 days after booking and no deposit was returned. We were told on the phone that the refund deadline was triggered by the 14 day window OR signatures on the Travel Agreement which ever came first. This was NEW information. To date, we have received NO refund of our $1000. We cancelled our trip within the advertised 14 day window."

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French Pyrenees & Spain's Rioja Region Walking & Hiking Tour
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4.8/5 Excellent
62 reviews
Group Tour
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Extreme
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Basque Country, French Pyrenees

Highlights

  • Journey from the dramatic coastline of the Atlantic Pyrenees in France to the glorious green mountain landscapes of Spanish Basque Country
  • Enjoy a breathtaking ascent in the Pyrenees, with views of vast beech forests and broad patchwork hills
  • Discover the famed pilgrimage trail of Saint James, the Camino de Santiago
  • Extend your trip in Bilbao and visit the dazzling Guggenheim Museum, or travel to the stunning seaside town of San Sebastián

Themes

Hiking & Walking

What travelers are saying

"Until Covid clears, I would steer clear of Backroads. We were partially through their June 2020 Costa Rica tour when a guest tested Covid positive. She and her husband were isolated. The rest of the group were offered wimpy masks. Nobody was offered Covid testing daily and masks were not required of the guests or staff. The guides kept repeating "not in the CDC guidelines." Our group of six decided that the Backroads response was inadequate so returned home mid-excursion. The hotel and food was excellent, but the provided bikes were inadequate. The front derailleurs were poorly adjusted, and most of the riders had the chains come off during the first ride. Hikes or bike rides were conducted in downpours. Disappointed for charging such a premium price."

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Best of Basque Country of Spain & France in 9 Days Tour
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4.2/5 Great
23 reviews
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Strenuous
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Basque Country

Highlights

  • Experience walking tour through half-timbered Bayonne, the capital of the French Pays Basque
  • You will have Great time in San Sebastián as pilgrims, hiking along a stretch of the famous camino
  • Massive walking tour of elegant San Sebastián ("Donostia" in Basque)
  • Explore more of Bilbao's Old Town maze, its Maritime Museum, and other sights
  • Discover Basque Bayonne

Themes

50 plus, Cultural, Hiking & Walking, Local Immersion & Homestays, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Transformative

What travelers are saying

"We purchased two backpacks from Rick Steves Europe. One of them arrived damaged and unusable. Their website says that you must contact them if you receive damaged merchandise. I have attempted to email them through their website and I have left 3 voicemails (nobody answers the phone, ever!) and nobody has contacted me back. At this point, it seems like I've been ripped off. Buyer beware. Extremely disappointed."

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England, Spain and Portugal Ultimate Adventure
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4.5/5 Excellent
16 reviews
Private Guided
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Visits

Arc de Triomphe, Barcelona, Buckingham Palace, Eiffel Tower, Lisbon, Louvre Museum, Madrid, Paris

Highlights

  • Explore Paris
  • Amazing visit to Louvre museum, additionally get on top of the Eiffel Tower
  • Visit Sacre Coeur cathedral
  • Discover Barcelona
  • visit the Prado Museum or Reina Sofia Museum

Themes

Cultural, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Transformative

What travelers are saying

"I recently took the Best of Australia and New Zealand tour...added on Fiji and a day in Auckland...with Discovery Nomads. During the booking process they were attentive and helpful. However, the nightmare began after paying for the tour! They told us we would receive our itinerary 10 to 20 days before our trip. It was sent 4 days before departure. We booked a tour for the trans alpine train from Christchurch to Queensland which we were told after the fact, that it did not exist. Furthermore, they failed to make a transfer reservation from the airport to our hotel in Christchurch. It took a week of constant sending of emails to get credit. They never answered them! Credit was finally issued almost 25 days later. The nightmare continues...we had to call each shuttle ride to confirm as their confirmation numbers were wrong and the local company could never find our reservations. So now add the cost of all the phone calls! Furthermore, when we reached out to Discover Nomads to help us while traveling, they NEVER answered their phone or a request for refund by email. We were completely ignored and left on our own. The only saving grace was we were traveling in English speaking countries. Can you imagine this happening to you in a country that doesn't speak English? Nightmare!!!!! And no assist from this horrible company. The only communication from them was for flight delays which we found out first by checking into the airport and one response asking for how much I paid for my transfer and proof of payment. I explained that it was all electronic and requested a refund of my original payment...heard nothing again from them until seven days later they sent an email stating that a meeting point had changed. So they had my email, just refused to deal with refunds or help. In addition, they had us waiting 15 hours for a hotel room in two flights. We were not allowed to stay in hotel lobby for so long and we arrived at 1:00am. We ended up paying for an early check in. Also, all internal flights were booked with 7.5 kg cabin luggage only. We had to pay baggage fees of $45 per bag. The costs of this trip were way higher then we anticipated. We had quotes for private tours just $2,000 higher...we should have booked that as we probably spent close to that amount in other fees!! TAKE MY WARNING...DO NOT USE THIS COMPANY!!!!!"

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Portugal, Spain, France and UK Adventure Tour
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4.5/5 Excellent
16 reviews
Private Guided
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Visits

Barcelona, Bordeaux, Lisbon, London, Madrid, Paris, Porto

Highlights

  • Visit 2 UNESCO World Heritage sites: Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery in Lisbon
  • Explore the historic heart of Porto, go to the vibrant Bolhão Market, sample Portuguese wines at the Caves Croft wine cellar
  • Visit Prado Museum in Madrid
  • Visit Sagrada Familia in Barcelona
  • Wine tasting and sightseeing tour in Bordeaux
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Themes

Cultural, High Adventure, Singles Travel

What travelers are saying

"I recently took the Best of Australia and New Zealand tour...added on Fiji and a day in Auckland...with Discovery Nomads. During the booking process they were attentive and helpful. However, the nightmare began after paying for the tour! They told us we would receive our itinerary 10 to 20 days before our trip. It was sent 4 days before departure. We booked a tour for the trans alpine train from Christchurch to Queensland which we were told after the fact, that it did not exist. Furthermore, they failed to make a transfer reservation from the airport to our hotel in Christchurch. It took a week of constant sending of emails to get credit. They never answered them! Credit was finally issued almost 25 days later. The nightmare continues...we had to call each shuttle ride to confirm as their confirmation numbers were wrong and the local company could never find our reservations. So now add the cost of all the phone calls! Furthermore, when we reached out to Discover Nomads to help us while traveling, they NEVER answered their phone or a request for refund by email. We were completely ignored and left on our own. The only saving grace was we were traveling in English speaking countries. Can you imagine this happening to you in a country that doesn't speak English? Nightmare!!!!! And no assist from this horrible company. The only communication from them was for flight delays which we found out first by checking into the airport and one response asking for how much I paid for my transfer and proof of payment. I explained that it was all electronic and requested a refund of my original payment...heard nothing again from them until seven days later they sent an email stating that a meeting point had changed. So they had my email, just refused to deal with refunds or help. In addition, they had us waiting 15 hours for a hotel room in two flights. We were not allowed to stay in hotel lobby for so long and we arrived at 1:00am. We ended up paying for an early check in. Also, all internal flights were booked with 7.5 kg cabin luggage only. We had to pay baggage fees of $45 per bag. The costs of this trip were way higher then we anticipated. We had quotes for private tours just $2,000 higher...we should have booked that as we probably spent close to that amount in other fees!! TAKE MY WARNING...DO NOT USE THIS COMPANY!!!!!"

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France and Spain Tour Selection Trips

  • A trip to France and Spain has rich experiences, from historic landmarks to culinary delights. To make the most of your journey, consider these essential travel tips:

    Research and book accommodations and attractions in advance, especially during peak seasons.
  • Familiarize yourself with common phrases in French and Spanish to navigate conversations with locals.
  • Opt for versatile clothing and essential items to make traveling between destinations easier.
  • Indulge in authentic French pastries and Spanish tapas to savor the flavors of each region.
  • Be vigilant in tourist areas and avoid unsolicited offers or scams.
  • Take advantage of efficient public transportation networks to explore cities and regions affordably.
  • Familiarize yourself with local customs and traditions to show respect for the local culture.
  • Carry a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated, especially during warm weather.
  • Safeguard your passport, tickets, and other essential documents in a secure location during your travels.
  • Embrace spontaneity and be open to unexpected experiences that may enrich your journey.

Additional details

What is the currency in France and Spain?

  • The Euro

Both Spain and France use the euro as their form of currency. Euros come in seven denominations of banknotes, €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200 and €500. The color and size of each banknote differs, making it easy to tell them apart.

Do I need a visa?

The Visa rule depends on what country you are a passport holder of. Those with passports from countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, Mexico, and most of south America do not require a visa. Parts of Asia require a visa, and some do not.

Most of the African continent, the middle east, and western Asia do require a visa to enter. Check with your government official to see if you require a visa upon entering the Schengen zone. The Schengen zone is an area of 26 European countries that allow unrestricted movement of people once one enters the Schengen zone.

Once you enter the Schengen zone, you are free to move around the area, and cross country borders without going through border control. For example, if you start the tour in France, if you head directly to Spain, you’re able to do so just as if you were crossing a state line or flying a domestic flight. You go through border control when entering the Schengen zone, and you’re clear until you leave the Schengen area.

Common routes for France and Spain tours

The common routes for France and Spain tours depend on what you’re hoping to see! Listed below are some common tour routes for both these countries.

  • Major cities: Paris, Barcelona and Madrid
  • Western France + Barcelona: Paris, Bordeaux, San Sebastian and Barcelona
  • France Highlights + Spain: Paris, Loire Valley, Lyon, Nice, Carcassonne, Barcelona and Madrid
  • River cruise through Eastern France + Barcelona: St Jean De Losne, Macon, Lyon, Avignon, Nice, and Barcelona.
  • Bordeaux and Basque Country: Bordeaux, Saint-Emilion, San Sebastian, Bilbao, Haro, Leon, Santiago de Compostela, and Madrid.
  • Paris, Bordeaux, Bilbao, and Madrid.

What is the weather like in France and Spain?

The weather differs depending on the season and where you’re located. Both France and Spain are large countries. In Northern France, in the winter, you can get snow and experience extremely chilly days.

The French Riviera, on the other end, has moderately warm weather year round. Winter days can often be in the upper 50s-low 60s with sunny days. Spain relatively shares the same weather around the country. Winters are often in the mid-50s with summer heat reaching mid-to-upper 80s. Below is a list of major cities/regions and an idea on the year-round weather.

Paris has chilly winters with rainy days. Temperatures run in the mid 40s, and increasingly get warmer in the spring and fall. Visitors can expect a mix of sunny and rainy days with temperatures in the 60s. Summer is sunny and warm, with averages often in the mid-upper 70s.

Nice – Winters in Nice can drop down to the upper 40s for a high, with summers reaching close to 80s. This is the warmest region for winters in France. French Riviera has

Bordeaux winters hover around 50 degrees with rainy days. Spring warms up to mid-60s, and as summer approaches, temperatures climb to nearly 80 degrees. Fall dips back down to the mid-60s.

Madrid has mild winters with averages in the 50s. The warm weather climbs quickly and reaches nearly 70 degrees in mid spring, and the same for fall. Summers are hot, with temperatures averaging nearly 90 degrees.

Barcelona is ideal year round for people looking for minimal rain, and the temperatures aren’t too shabby either. Winter stays around mid-to upper 50s. Spring and fall weather is comfortable, with averages in the upper 60s. Summers are often in the upper 70s to low 80s.

Seville winters, spring and fall are fairly balmy, with the cooler months average slightly above 60 degrees, climbing up to nearly 80 in spring and fall. Summers are scorching, with averages in the upper 80s to mid-90s.

Bilbao is one of the cooler spots in Spain. Winter averages are around the mid-50s, with peak summer averaging upper 70s. Spring and fall consist of averages in the 60s.

When is the best time to go to France and Spain?

The best time to go to France and Spain depends on what you’re hoping to do. If you’re into winter activities, you’ll find incredible skiing in the French alps in the winter. On the other hand, if you don’t mind the cold, winter (November-February) is a great time to visit to avoid crowds. Christmas and holiday season travel will be crowded in December, but the winter in general often offers affordable prices.

Most people are working/still in school, so it’s a great opportunity to get out and see the sites. Shoulder season (spring and fall) are also ideal times to visit as well. Things are warming up (spring) or cooling down (fall) so the weather is often fair and comfortable. The spring and fall offers some of the prettiest scenery with the seasons changing. Most people are still in school, so crowds are on the smaller side. This is also an affordable time to visit.

The summer is prime if you’re hoping to spend time relaxing in the sun and swimming in the Mediterranean. The weather is hot and sunny, and the water should be warming up to a good swimming temperature. There’s plenty of daylight and things to do. On the other hand, it can get extremely hot. Mix that with the summer crowds and the trip can be a bit tough.

Summer is when most people have time off and the combination of great weather makes for a popular time to visit. Be prepared for the cost, as this is the most expensive time to visit. Overall, there truly is no bad time to visit Spain and France. Finding the time of year that aligns most with your interest is how to find the best time to go.

What to pack for France and Spain?

Most of the locals love the fashionable and functional look. Scarves are a bit hit, as they provide a layer of warmth and a touch of fashion. Comfortable closed-toe shoes are crucial for your trip to Spain and France. Most roads are cobblestone, and wearing heels wouldn’t be functional.

Notice this about your luggage too. If you’re bringing a wheeling suitcase, remember you’ll be carrying along bumpy, cobblestone road. Many accommodations in Europe don’t have elevators, so be mindful when you’re packing. You don’t want to lug heavy suitcases up five flights of stairs. If you’re going in the summer, make sure to bring breathable clothing. Days can be hot and humid, so packing the right clothing is crucial for enjoying your trip.

The sun is extremely strong in Spain, and you shouldn’t underestimate. Of course, SPF and sun protection is a necessity. Bringing clothing and accessory that can help protect you is also important. A hat and sunglasses to protect your face, and a lightweight wrap to cover your arms and shoulders when the sun is at its peak.

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