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Map of Barcelona to Rome including France, Italy and Spain

From la vida loca to la dolce vita, enjoy a slice of the good life from Barcelona to Rome.

Lose yourself in three of Europe's most enchanting countries. From the vibrant streets of Barcelona, travel into the heart of the picturesque Spanish Pyrenees, then discover Provencal food and world-class wines as you frolic with Europe’s high rollers in the French Riviera. Feast on breathtaking sights in the cliff-top towns of the Cinque Terre, see master works of art in Florence and marvel at the leaning Torre de Pisa. Call into beautiful Siena then conclude this European adventure in the ancient city of Rome.

Start
Barcelona, Spain
Finish
Rome, Italy
Destinations
France, Italy, Spain
Style
Original
Theme
Explorer
Code
ZMSC
Physical rating
Ages
Min 15
Group size
Min 1, Max 12

Why you'll love this trip

  • Spend your free time in Barcelona visiting Gaudi's modern basilica, La Sagrada Familia – a Gothic masterpiece that embodies the city’s artistic and progressive heart.

  • Hike in the majestic Spanish Pyrenees mountains, revelling in the fresh air, panoramic views and an exhilarating sense of freedom.

  • Explore the idyllic Provencal landscapes of southern France and gain an understanding as to why this part of the world is so adored by artists.

  • The Leaning Tower may be Pisa’s most iconic image, but there’s so much more to discover – The Piazza dei Miracoli and Pisa Baptistry are masterpieces in Medieval-Italian architecture.

  • Enjoy plenty of free time in Rome to discover the ancient Colosseum, stroll through Vatican City and gaze up towards the gods inside St Peter's Basilica.

Is this trip right for you?

  • Less time spent travelling; more time to explore each destination. The primary means of transportation on this trip is by train. Trains are a fast way to cross long distances, allowing you to avoid traffic jams and arrive right into the city centre. They are comfortable and all have toilets, however, can sometimes be quite busy. Please note that you'll have to carry your own luggage on and off the train, so make sure it doesn’t exceed our weight and size recommendations. You can find specifics under ‘Packing’ in the ‘Essential Trip Information’ section.

  • Europe is steeped in majestic old buildings, and often there are no lifts or escalators, particularly in some train stations or hotels. You may have to carry your bags up and down stairs, but the trek will be worth it.

  • Don’t let the heat keep you from exploring the world! Summer temperatures can be very high (over 40°C), which can make things uncomfortable. It’s important to use sun protection, wear layers to combat the heat, and drink plenty of water.

  • Hotels in Europe often don't have double beds, but rather two single beds that can be pushed together. In some cases, bathroom facilities will be shared rather than ensuite.

The beautiful Nice - France
La Sagrada Familia - Barcelona
Get a guided tour of Barcelona with your Intrepid local leader
Chateau Comtal in Carcassonne - France
The leaning tower and the basilica in Pisa
Italy_CinqueTerre_Vernazza_Hike_Group
Vernazza lookout - Cinque Terre
Good food with new fiends
Italy-florence-rooftops-views
Fontana di Trevi - Rome

Itinerary
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Welcome to Spain! Barcelona's quirky character and fabulous Catalan cuisine mixes seamlessly with a ground-breaking art scene, Gothic architecture, superb dining and a non-stop nightlife, making it a city you won't soon forget. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 7 pm today – you can arrive at any time before this. If you arrive early, use free time to get your bearings of Barcelona. There are plenty of galleries, cafes and historic corners to keep you busy. Gaudi's bizarre La Sagrada Familia Basilica is not be missed. As there's not much time in Barcelona, we suggest you arrive a few days early so you can get under the skin of this great city. The heart of Catalonia prides itself as a gastronomic centre and so this evening, perhaps venture out to taste the reputation for yourself. You could take a tapas crawl through rustic Catalan dishes in the funky neighbourhood of El Born.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Optional Activities
  • Barcelona - Museum of Gaudi - EUR6
  • Barcelona - National Art Museum of Catalonia - EUR12
  • Barcelona - Andean-Amazonian Ethnographic Museum - Free
  • Barcelona - Old Santa Creu Hospital - EUR10
  • Barcelona - Picasso Museum - EUR14
  • Barcelona - Casa Batllo - EUR24
  • Barcelona - Museum of City History - EUR7
  • Barcelona - Guell Palace - EUR12
  • Barcelona - Barcelona Cathedral - EUR9
  • Barcelona - Tapas Tour in El Raval Urban Adventure - EUR70
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.
Special Information
It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place. If you would like to visit La Sagrada Familia, it’s best to pre book your tickets before the tour. On this trip the best time to visit is before the group meeting today, ideally in the morning or early afternoon.

Travel north today by train and climb into the Spanish Pyrenees, which form a mighty barrier between the Iberian Peninsula and the rest of Europe, arriving in the small town of Ribes de Freser (approximately 2 hours). This is your base for next two days. Beautifully placed Ribes de Freser is a low-key town situated at the confluence of three different rivers; Freser, Rigard and Segadell. The town is not only an important tourist centre in this part of Pyrenees, but it’s also well known for its mineral water and milk products. Make sure you sample these, perhaps in your free time during the rest of today. The town is a great place to relax with the views of beautiful Pyrenees Mountains in the background. In the evening, perhaps head out for dinner with the group.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Today, enjoy stunning views from a cogwheel train ride into the Nuria Valley. This train line was first opened in the 1930s and connects Ribes de Freser with Queralbs, making a spectacular and magical snaking journey up to the small ski town and pilgrimage site of Nuria. It crosses viaducts, travels past dramatic cliffs, through tunnels, forest and waterfalls, finally arriving at 2000 metres above sea level after one of the most magnificent rides in the Pyrenees. Along with the cogwheel train journey, you will find time to stretch your legs on a hike in the scenic surrounds. Take to the hills for a day of hiking in the Pyrenees and be prepared for some steep ascents. Climb up through the forest to a fantastic viewpoint of the mountain peaks (weather permitting). Don't forget your camera, as the alpine scenery is spectacular. Return to Ribes de Freser in late afternoon. Tonight it's time for an included paella dinner.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Pyrenees - Cogwheel Railway to Nuria Valley
  • Pyrenees - Hiking in Nuria Valley
  • Ribes de Freser - Paella Dinner
Meals Included
  • Dinner
Special Information
On today's hike please be prepared for some steep sections on uneven and rocky terrain. Please make sure you bring sturdy trainers or light hiking boots. Feel free to opt out of the hike if you prefer to take it easy upon arrival at the final stop of the cogwheel railway.

Continue your adventure across the French border today with a combination of a train journey and private transfer to Carcassonne (approximately 4.5 hours). The stunning medieval French city of Carcassonne looks like it's straight out of a classic fairytale and is famous for its 53 watchtowers and double-walled fortifications. The first walls were built in Gallo-Roman style with later additions made in 13th and 14th centuries, making it the biggest and most beautiful medieval construction in Europe. For good reason, this World Heritage-listed fortress is the second most visited tourist site in France after the Eiffel Tower. There’ll be plenty of time to explore and uncover the memorable castle and ramparts, crossing the medieval stone-arched bridge and navigating the cobbled streets that form a spider’s web through the town. You'll have plenty of time to explore and uncover Carcassonne’s secrets. Chateau Comtal, a 12th-century fortress within Le Cite, which offers archaeological exhibits and a tour of the inner ramparts, is certainly an interesting option for a free afternoon. This evening, if weather permits, watch a golden sunset over this medieval landscape.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Optional Activities
  • Carcassonne - Chateau Comtal Entrance - EUR8
  • Carcassonne - Saint Nazarius Basilica - Free
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.

Leave Carcassonne behind today and take the train into the French region of Provence, through heartland scenery that has long attracted the brushes of Impressionist painters, settling in the town of Arles (approximately 3 hours). Once a provincial capital of ancient Rome, Arles is now famed for inspiring the paintings of Van Gogh, which can be seen at the local gallery that takes his name. On arrival, take a walk around this town stepped in Provençal culture and immerse yourself in the picturesque landscapes that surround you. There’s also an included trip to see the beautiful double rows of arches of the Arles Amphitheatre in the afternoon, an ancient Roman arena still in use after 1000 years. Later, what better way to round off the day than a leisurely stroll, relax, and a coffee or ‘pastis’ at the shaded terraces of the atmospheric outdoor cafe that once paid host to the famous painter.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Arles - Amphitheatre Visit
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Enjoy a free day in the town of Arles. Perhaps follow the Van Gogh trail to see sites that the artist drew on as subjects for his paintings, finishing at the Vincent Van Gogh Foundation to browse the changing exhibitions of the Post-Impressionist painter, as well as temporary exhibitions of other famous artists. Discover Gothic architecture in a walled city where the Pope once took refuge, uncover an ancient Roman necropolis and theatre, or stroll past an ancient multi-storey aqueduct. You could also head outside of the town to the Camargue Nature Park, a beautifully bio-diverse region, and cycle among pink flamingos that frolick in sandy reed beds. The Antiques Museum, Arlaten Ethnographic Museum and Reattu Museum back in town also provide lots of culture to discover. Otherwise, you might simply relax by the Rhone River and watch the world go by. A wander around the town at night becomes an art history lesson, with scenes recognisable from famous artworks like ‘Cafe Terrace at Night’.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Optional Activities
  • Arles - Reattu Museum - EUR8
  • Arles - Arlaten Ethnographic Museum - EUR6
  • Arles - Musee de Arles Antique - EUR8
  • Arles - Vincent Van Gogh Foundation - EUR9
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Take the train to Nice today, which should take you around five hours. The star of the Riviera and a great base from which to explore the rest of the Cote d'Azur, Nice boasts both public and private beaches, with countless opportunities to relax. Your afternoon and evening are free but try not to miss the flower and evening markets on Place Saleya. Take some time to explore Nice’s old centre, walking its maze of staircases and lanes, fine Baroque churches, and the famous Promenade des Anglais – a hot spot for street theatre and local artists. The Old Quarter is a warren of alleyways, boutique shops, cafes and restaurants just waiting to be discovered.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Today is free for you to further explore Nice as you like, there's even the option of taking a day trip to the glitzy city of Cannes, which only costs around EUR14 by train. The famed film festival host is a place of sun, sand, style and shopping, while the old town still maintains a Provencal feel. You might like to visit the cliff-top village of Eze, known as 'The Eagles Nest' which is just a few kilometres outside of Nice. This medieval town is a true gem – it’s vaulted, narrow streets are filled with art galleries, workshops and gastronomic restaurants and at the top is a ruined medieval castle commanding one of the most beautiful panoramas on the Cote d'Azur. Back in Nice there are museums to explore, tiny shops in the retro neighbourhood of Vieux to browse, beaches to lounge on, scenic gardens to discover, and delicious French fare to feast on.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Optional Activities
  • St Tropez - Day Trip (by boat) - EUR65
  • Cannes - Day Trip (by train) - EUR14
  • Nice - Matisse Museum - EUR10
  • Monaco - Day Trip (by train) - EUR8
  • Eze - Day Trip - EUR4
  • Nice - Exotic Garden - EUR7
  • Nice - Grasse Perfume Tour - EUR6
  • Nice - Museum of Modern & Contemporary Art - EUR10
  • Nice - St Nicolas Cathedral - EUR3
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

This morning after breakfast, spend the day travelling by train across the Italian border to the once important naval base of La Spezia, now the gateway to the gorgeous Cinque Terre, or ‘Five lands’ in English (approximately 6 hours). The name comes from the five tiny villages – Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore – whose position, wedged into a series of coves between sheer cliffs, makes it one of the highlights of the whole of Italy. On arrival in La Spezia there won't be too much time to explore yet, but after checking into your hotel perhaps get your bearings of the area with a short walk around the pedestrian zone on Via del Prione to the gardens along the harbour, or head out for dinner with the group. Afterwards, you might like to relax and rest up before the walk along the famous Cinque Terre route tomorrow.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

This morning venture out on the footpaths of Cinque Terre (Five Lands), a region of Italy famed for its coastline and pastel villages. The footpaths that run between the villages were once the only way to travel in the region, and take you through olive groves, vineyards and on to idyllic vistas. Walking the entire network of paths can take around five hours (12 kilometres in total) and you will need a good level of fitness. You can also choose to walk just a few sections, which will still unveil a great amount of majestic scenery. Some sections of path can be difficult, as there are challenging uphill stretches, narrow paths, steep cliffs and foot bridges. Please remember to bring comfortable footwear such as trainers or light hiking shoes. It's also possible to take the train between any of the villages or back to the group's base whenever you want. After working up an appetite, take advantage of the foods of the Liguria region with a pesto class – focaccia is also a speciality in this area and makes a great start to lunch. The rest of the day is free for you to enjoy at your own leisure. In the evening, there's no better way to recover from your day of walking with more indulgence in delicious Mediterranean food.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Cinque Terre - Day Trip, including Cinque Terre Pass
Optional Activities
  • Cinque Terre - 'Il Laboratorio del Pesto' Making & Demonstration - EUR15
  • Cinque Terre - Sea Kayak Hire - EUR10
  • Cinque Terre - Church of St Andrea in Levante - Free
  • Cinque Terre - Coastal Cruise - EUR30
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
Due to recent landslides in the area, it is currently not possible to walk the Via dell'Amore and the coastal section between Manarola and Corniglia. There are alternative inland routes, however these are of a higher physical rating and involve steep ups and downs. It is possible to take the train or a bus for these sections. Due to safety reasons some sections of any path can be closed at short notice. Please remember to bring comfortable footwear such as trainers or light hiking shoes.

Depart Cinque Terre today and catch a train to Pisa (approximately 1 hour). Divided in two by the River Arno, the heart of Pisa is the Santa Maria quarter on the north bank. Here there'll be ample time for you to visit the world-famous Leaning Tower, as well as the Duomo (Piazza dei Miracoli, once the largest in Europe) and Pisa Baptistry. Please note that it's not always possible to climb the tower, although you'll have plenty of time to take pictures and explore the city. The tower was built in the 12th century, but its foundation was on shifting sand and clay, meaning that it now leans at an angle of 4 degrees (after restoration and stabilising work). Wander the shopping streets, from high-end boutiques to speciality book and antiques stores, and perhaps enjoy lunch and an aperitif in a backstreet restaurant before returning to the station in the afternoon and taking the train to Florence (approximately 2 hours). After checking in to your hotel, join your leader for quick orientation walk. The rest of your evening is free to explore the city of the Renaissance.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Optional Activities
  • Pisa - Leaning Tower of Pisa - EUR18
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

After breakfast head out into Florence, one of the most culturally rich and beautiful cities in Italy, known to many as the beating heart of Tuscany. The Medicis, Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, Brunelleschi, Machiavelli, Donatello and Michelangelo all lived in Florence at the height of their creative reign. It's impossible to see everything in this Renaissance wonderland, so take your time and enjoy it. Perhaps visit the Uffizi, one of the world's oldest art galleries, or walk up to Piazzale Michelangelo, which is set on a hill on the south bank of the Arno River, to take in beautiful views of the city – a lovely way to while away the day. There are plenty of sights to see during your time in Florence – don't forget to visit Michelangelo's David, housed in the Galleria dell'Accademia. As the evening comes around, join the locals in taking a passeggiata, a leisurely socialising stroll, perhaps between piazza Beccaria and piazza della Repubblica.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Optional Activities
  • Florence - Medici Chapels - EUR15
  • Florence - Bargello Museum - EUR13
  • Florence - Baptistry, Museo Opera del Duomo, Giotto Bell Tower and Brunelleschi Dome - EUR30
  • Florence - Pitti Palace, Gallery of Modern Art & Palatine Gallery - EUR19
  • Florence - Aperitivo Time! Urban Adventure - EUR77
  • Florence - Foodies Walk Urban Adventure - EUR67
  • Florence - Palazzo Vecchio - EUR12
  • Florence - Pitti Palace (Boboli Gardens, Museo Argenti, Costume Gallery, Porcellain Museum) - EUR12
  • Florence - Uffizi Gallery - EUR24
  • Florence - Accademia - EUR16
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
The individual Florentine State Museums have slightly different opening times and closing days between them but the website firenzemusei.it has everything you need to know about all of them, including the option to purchase tickets. We suggest that you pre-book your visit to the Uffizi, as this museum experiences enormous queues (up to 5 hours) all year round. Your leader can be of assistance. Make your reservations for these museums for any time today.

Leave Florence early in the morning by bus for a day tour to Siena (approximately 1.5 hours). Surrounded by olive groves and the vineyards of Chianti, Siena is one of the most idyllic cities of Tuscany. Wander the tiny alleyways and lively piazzas, and search out the unique Piazza del Campo, a grand fan-shaped piazza built on the site of the old Roman forum, and where the famous Palio horse race takes place (twice annually in mid-July and the end of August). Siena has an energetic and friendly student atmosphere thanks to one of the oldest universities in the world being located here. Be sure to visit the small but stunning Siena Cathedral, and see the statue of the Capitoline Wolf which was brought here by Romulus and Remus, the mythical founders of Rome. You will be back in Florence for the evening, which is free to enjoy as you please. Food is also a major part of the city's identity, so perhaps explore some of the culinary delicacies on offer from across Tuscany. Regional specialities are noted for their simplicity and fine flavour, and the use of high-quality olive oil, cannellini beans and fresh herbs.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Siena - Day Trip
Optional Activities
  • Siena - Duomo di Siena - EUR15
  • Siena - Torre del Mangia Climb - EUR10
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

In the morning, take the train to Rome (approximately 2 hours), and remember that while here, the best attitude is ‘when in Rome’! Join your leader on an orientation walk around the city, where you can see some of the iconic sights such as the Colosseum and Arch of Constantine, the Forum (centre of ancient Rome), the Victor Emmanuel Monument, the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navona, Spanish Steps, Via Dei Condotti and Piazza Venezia. No visit would be complete without a trip to Vatican City and St Peter's Basilica, so check with your leader for options and tips on how to fit that in a day. Entry to the Basilica is free and there's a small charge to climb the dome for a panorama over the city. Use your free time to also visit the Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel. Rome is packed full of restaurants and trattorias that cater to every taste and budget. Eating in trattorias will give you a chance to sample some Italian wines, with house choices usually very good and affordable. Head out in the evening with the group for a final farewell gastronomic fling.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Optional Activities
  • Vatican City - Vatican Museum - EUR21
  • Rome - Galleria Borghese - EUR15
  • Rome - Venezia Palace - EUR12
  • Vatican City - St Peter's Dome Climb & Elevator - EUR10
  • Rome - Christian Catacombs - EUR8
  • Rome - Castel Sant'Angelo - EUR14
  • Rome - Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill - EUR16
  • Rome - Keats-Shelley Memorial House - EUR6
  • Rome - Pantheon - EUR2
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Your Barcelona to Rome adventure comes to an end this morning. There are no activities planned for today and you're free to depart the accommodation at any time. As there is so much to see in Rome, we recommend you stay a little longer. We are happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability). Please speak to your agent at the time of booking.
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Want to tailor this itinerary?

Meals

12 breakfasts, 1 dinner

Transport

Bus, Cog wheel railway, Metro, Public bus, Train

Accommodation

Hotel (14 nights)

Included activities

  • Pyrenees - Cogwheel Railway to Nuria Valley
  • Pyrenees - Hiking in Nuria Valley
  • Ribes de Freser - Paella Dinner
  • Arles - Amphitheatre Visit
  • Cinque Terre - Day Trip, including Cinque Terre Pass
  • Siena - Day Trip

Dates & availability

Trip departures are unavailable.

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Important notes

1. A single supplement is bookable for this trip, excluding Day 9&10. available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. Availability is limited due to small property we use. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
2. You don't have a lot of time in Barcelona and in Rome at the start and end of the trip, so if you're keen to explore these spectacular cities in depth we recommend you arrive a day or two before the start of the trip or extend your stay at the end of the trip.

Essential trip information

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

View Essential Trip Information

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