France and Spain Small Group Tours & Trips
2 France and Spain trips. Tours from 4 tour companies. 0 reviews.
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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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