South of France and Spain Itinerary 10 Days

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Dreaming of wandering through the breathtaking South of France and Spain itinerary?

This travel blog has crafted a perfect 10-day itinerary for you, covering both the South of France and Spain, ensuring you don’t miss a beat.

From the Mediterranean beauty of the French Riviera Capital to the beaches and Gothic architecture of Barcelona, this trip is sure to be a memory of a lifetime.

Keep reading to find out!

Key Takeaways:
➜ Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with iconic dishes like bouillabaisse in Marseille and tapas in Barcelona, enhancing your travel experience.
➜ Engage yourself in the vibrant cultural tapestry of the region, from exploring Gaudí’s architectural wonders in Spain to the charming streets of Nice.

Overview of The South of France and Spain Itinerary

Ready to transform your south of France and Spain trip into an unforgettable journey?

Look no further! We’ve put together a comprehensive 10-day itinerary to guide you through the spots effortlessly:

Days – Places	Attractions/Activities
1 & 2 – Nice	Promenade des Anglais | Old Town | Nice Castle | Villefranche-sur-Mer
3 & 4 – Marseilles	Vieux Port | MuCEM | Calanques | Day Trip to Avignon | Vineyards
5 & 6 – Montpellier	Place de la Comédie | Gardens & Musée Fabre | Montpellier Cathedral | Narbonne
7 & 8 – Barcelona	Sagrada Familia | Gothic Quarter | Picasso Museum | Montjuïc Hill
9 & 10 – San Sebastian	La Concha Beach | Old Town | El Buen Pastor Cathedral | Miramar Palace

Destination 1: Nice

Welcome to Nice- the second-largest French city on the Mediterranean Coast.

A visit to this ancient Greek-founded gem and modern seaside hotspot is the best decision you can make- guaranteed.

However, don’t rush – take your time to explore the city’s rich history and lively present. From glamorous beaches and luxurious yachts to beautiful villages, this region offers it all.

Popular airlines from Major US cities to Nice Cote d’Azur Airport (NCE) include

• Delta Air Lines (SkyTeam)
• United Airlines (Star Alliance)
• American Airlines (Oneworld)
• La Compagnie

So, your activities for days 1 and 2 in the capital of the French Riviera can go like this-

Day 1 Activities in Nice

• Promenade des Anglais: Stroll along this iconic seafront promenade, enjoy the views of the Mediterranean, and relax on the pebbled beaches.
• Old Town (Vieux Nice): Explore the narrow, winding streets, visit the colorful markets, and savor local cuisine at a traditional café or bistro.
• Nice Castle (Colline du Château): Hike or take the elevator to the top for panoramic views of Nice, the coastline, and the surrounding area.
• Visit a local market: Browse the Cours Saleya Market for fresh produce, flowers, and regional delicacies.

Day 2 Activities – Day Trip to Villefranche-sur-Mer

• Villefranche-sur-Mer Old Town: Wander through the charming streets, admire the colorful buildings, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.
• Plage de Villefranche: Relax on the beautiful sandy beach and take in the clear blue waters of the bay.
• Saint-Pierre Chapel: Visit this small chapel adorned with murals by Jean Cocteau, a unique cultural attraction.
• Explore the waterfront: Walk along the scenic harbor, enjoy the stunning views, and dine at one of the waterfront restaurants.
• Fort du Mont Alban: Hike up to this historical fort for wonderful views of the bay and the surrounding area.

Return to Nice for a good night’s sleep and get ready for your next destination the following day.

Destination 2: Marseille

The next stop is Marseille- France’s largest and oldest city on the Mediterranean coast. A drive from Nice to Marseille along the French Riviera coast takes no more than 2.5 hours.

You’ll traverse breathtaking coastal roads, soaking in stunning sea views and exploring charming towns along the way. All you need to do is simply rent a car and let the scenic route unveil its beauty and capture picturesque landscapes.

Day 3 activities in Marseilles

• Vieux Port (Old Port): Stroll around the bustling harbor, visit the local fish market, and enjoy a meal at one of the many seafood restaurants.
• MuCEM: Explore the exhibits on Mediterranean culture and history in this striking modern museum.
• Notre-Dame de la Garde: Visit this iconic basilica for panoramic views of Marseille and the Mediterranean Sea.
• Explore Le Panier: Wander through the oldest district of Marseille, with its colorful streets, art galleries, and local shops.
• Relax at Plage des Catalans: Spend some time at this popular beach near the city center.

Day 4 trip to Avignon 

The drive from Marseilles to Avignon will take only 1 hour and 15 minutes by car.

• Pope’s Palace: Tour this impressive medieval palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and learn about its historical significance.
• Pont Saint-Bénézet: Walk along this famous bridge and take in views of the Rhône River.
• Avignon Cathedral: Visit this historic cathedral with its beautiful architecture and views from the nearby gardens.
• Jardin des Doms: Relax in these peaceful gardens with panoramic views of Avignon and the surrounding landscape.
• Enjoy local wine: Sample wines from the region in one of Avignon’s charming wine bars or cafes.

Stay the night in this medieval place and prepare for your next day.

Destination 3: Montpellier

Having revealed Marseille’s secret treasures and Avignon’s timeless beauty, it’s now the perfect moment to discover the enchanting city of Montpellier. A drive from Avignon to Montpellier will take about 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Situated just inland from France’s southern coastline, Montpellier is famed for its stunning cathedrals and wide boulevards.

You should allocate at least two days to explore this city.

Why? Because the city has an abundance of fantastic activities available, check out how to utilize your time in Montpellier:

Day 5 activities in Montpellier

• Place de la Comédie: Explore this central square, known for its lively atmosphere, historic buildings, and the grand Opéra Comédie.
• Explore the historic center: Wander through Montpellier’s charming streets, visit local boutiques, and enjoy a meal at a café or restaurant.
• Jardin des Plantes: Visit this beautiful botanical garden, perfect for a leisurely stroll and enjoying its diverse plant collections.
• Musée Fabre: Discover an impressive collection of fine arts, including works from the Renaissance to contemporary pieces, in this renowned museum.
• Montpellier Cathedral: Admire the Gothic architecture and explore the interior of this historic cathedral.

Day 6 trip to Narbonne

A drive from Montpellier to Narbonne will take about 1 hour and 15 minutes.

• Narbonne Cathedral: Visit this Gothic cathedral, known for its stunning architecture and impressive interior.
• Palais des Archevêques: Explore this historical archbishop’s palace with its rich history and impressive architecture.
• Les Halles de Narbonne: Browse this vibrant market for fresh produce, local delicacies, and regional specialties.
• Canal de la Robine: Walk along this beautiful canal, which is part of the UNESCO-listed Canal du Midi.
• Visit the Roman Horreum: Discover the well-preserved underground Roman warehouse and learn about the city’s ancient history.

Enjoy a leisurely evening in Narbonne, dining at a local restaurant, or exploring the charming streets. Have a good sleep, as the next day will be about crossing the border to Spain.

Destination 4: Barcelona

Located in the northeastern part of Spain in the Catalonia region, it holds the title of the country’s most-visited city. A drive from Narbonne to Barcelona will take about 3 hours, or alternatively, you can also take the train, which will take you within 2 hours.

Explore the lively Catalan capital, including Gaudi’s architecture and Las Ramblas.

Day 7 activities in Barcelona

• Sagrada Familia: Marvel at Antoni Gaudí’s iconic basilica, renowned for its intricate architecture and ongoing construction.
• Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic): Wander through the narrow medieval streets, visit the Barcelona Cathedral, and explore charming squares like Plaça Reial.
• Picasso Museum: Explore an extensive collection of Pablo Picasso’s works, showcasing his artistic evolution and relationship with Barcelona.
• La Rambla: Stroll down this lively boulevard, known for its shops, street performers, and vibrant atmosphere.
• La Boqueria Market: Enjoy a visit to this bustling food market, perfect for sampling local delicacies and fresh produce.

Day 8 activities in Barcelona

• Montjuïc Hill: Explore this scenic hill with attractions including Montjuïc Castle, the Magic Fountain, and beautiful gardens.
• Fundació Joan Miró: Visit this museum dedicated to the works of Joan Miró, featuring a significant collection of his art.
• Poble Espanyol: Discover this open-air architectural museum that showcases replicas of traditional Spanish buildings and crafts.
• Casa Batlló: Admire another of Gaudí’s masterpieces, known for its colorful facade and unique design.
• Casa Milà (La Pedrera): Explore this Gaudí-designed building with its distinctive stone facade and rooftop sculptures.
• Barceloneta Beach: Relax at this popular urban beach, enjoy a seaside walk, or dine at one of the nearby seafood restaurants

Destination 5: Donostia-San Sebastian

Last but not least, you shouldn’t miss taking at least a two-day tour of the pristine beaches of San Sebastian.

Wondering what’s the catch here? Well, it’s a haven with three stunning shores: Playa de la Concha and Playa de Ondarreta, and the vibrant Zurriola (or Gros Beach).

But, this is not the end; it offers more than just these beautiful beaches.

Day 9 activities in San Sebastian

• La Concha Beach: Relax on this iconic beach, renowned for its beautiful bay and golden sands. Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, or a leisurely stroll along the promenade.
• Old Town (Parte Vieja): Explore the vibrant heart of San Sebastián, famous for its bustling tapas bars, narrow streets, and lively atmosphere.
• El Buen Pastor Cathedral: Visit this beautiful neo-Gothic cathedral with its striking architecture and serene interior.
• San Telmo Museoa: Discover Basque culture and history through a diverse collection of art, artifacts, and exhibitions in this museum housed in a former convent.
• Monte Urgull: Hike up this hill for panoramic views of the city and bay, and explore the historic fortress and sculptures along the way.

Day 10 activities in San Sebastian

• Miramar Palace: Tour this elegant palace and its surrounding gardens, which offer stunning views of the bay and the city.
• Zurriola Beach: Enjoy this popular beach known for its surf-friendly waves and relaxed atmosphere.
• Aquarium: Visit this modern aquarium featuring marine life exhibits, a glass tunnel through the main tank, and a touch pool.
• Peine del Viento: Marvel at the unique sculptures by Eduardo Chillida located at the edge of the sea, where waves crash against the rocks.
• Kursaal Congress Centre: Admire this contemporary architectural landmark and catch a performance or event if available.
• Basaula Market: Explore this local market for fresh produce, local specialties, and a taste of regional cuisine.

Your scenic tour of the South of France and Spain has reached its final chapter. So, for your return journey to the USA from Donostia-San Sebastián, you can choose from several major airlines that offer international flights.

Delta Air Lines and American Airlines provide direct flights from major European hubs to various US cities. United Airlines also offers robust transatlantic service.

Travel Tips for South of France and Spain Itinerary

As you are planning to make a wonderful trip to two culturally rich and diverse regions, learning travel tips for maximizing your experience is a must.

• Travel Documents: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date. Depending on your nationality, check if a visa/Green Card is required for entry into France and Spain.
• Currency: Both France and Spain use the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted. However, carry some cash for emergencies.
• Language: Basic phrases in each language can be helpful. 
• Health and Safety: Carry a basic first-aid kit and any personal medications. Consider travel insurance for coverage of health and travel disruptions.
• Packing: Pack light, breathable clothing for warm weather, but also bring a light jacket for cooler evenings and coastal breezes. Comfortable walking shoes are essential.
• Public Transit: Both cities have efficient public transportation systems. In Nice, you can use trams and buses; whereas, in Barcelona, the metro, buses, and trams are more convenient.
• Car Rentals: If you are planning to rent a car, familiarize yourself with local driving laws and road signs as parking can be quite challenging in city centers.

Closing Notes

Your comprehensive South of France and Spain itinerary includes every dreamy aspect of your journey from A to Z with suggestions on dining, drinking, and accommodations.

From the sun-kissed beaches of the French Riviera to the historic streets of Barcelona, each day embraces new adventures and sights. This remarkable adventure promises an incredible exploration of two countries’s most cherished treasures, where every stop is simply an invitation to indulge in the finer things.

So, let this be the moment your dreams take flight. There’s no better time than now.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)