Two Countries in One Day: Spain & France

Thinking about a day trip that lets you tick two countries off your list without the hassle of long travel times? This “Two Countries in One Day” tour from Barcelona offers just that—an adventure that takes you from the heart of Catalonia to the southern French coast. It’s perfect for travelers who want to maximize their sightseeing, especially if you’re interested in history, scenery, and a touch of pop culture like Game of Thrones filming locations.

What we particularly like about this experience is how it combines a small-group vibe with local guides who are clearly knowledgeable and enthusiastic. The comfort of private, air-conditioned transport also means you’re not stuck with a big bus or crowded crowds. On the flip side, the duration—around 8 to 9 hours—means a fairly packed schedule, so it’s not ideal if you prefer slow mornings or extensive sightseeing in each spot.

This tour suits those with a sense of adventure, a curiosity for history and scenery, and a desire to sample both Spanish and French cultures in one go. It’s especially appealing if you’re short on time but want a well-organized, comprehensive experience. Just keep in mind, if you’re traveling with young kids or have mobility restrictions, the walking and driving involved might be something to consider.

Key Points

• Visit Two Countries in One Day: Perfect for quick, varied experiences in Spain and France.
• Small Group & Private Transport: Ensures a more personalized, comfortable journey.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enrich your understanding of each location.
• Stunning Sights & Film Locations: Girona’s architecture and Game of Thrones sites, plus the scenic French coast.
• Flexible Free Time: Especially in Collioure, to explore or relax.
• Cost-Effective: At around $112.57, it offers a lot of value for a full-day adventure.

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour is designed for travelers who want efficiency and variety. Starting early at 8:30 am from a central Barcelona meeting point, you’ll hop into a private, air-conditioned vehicle with a small group of no more than seven people. This limited size makes for a more relaxed, engaging experience.

The Itinerary in Detail

First stop: Passeig de Gràcia
We kick off right in the city, gathering at a recognizable, central spot. While it’s a quick meeting point, this is where you leave the urban buzz behind and head toward Girona. The scenic drive is approximately two hours, giving you a chance to settle in and enjoy the views.

Crossing the Eiffel-inspired Pont de les Peixateries Velles
After about 20 minutes crossing this iconic bridge, you’ll arrive in Girona’s old town. This bridge, built around 1877, is a highlight—constructed by the same designer behind the Eiffel Tower, adding a fun historical tidbit to your photos.

Walking around Girona’s Gothic Cathedral
While you won’t go inside, strolling outside the Girona Cathedral allows you to appreciate its massive Gothic nave—the second widest in the world. The cathedral’s impressive façade and the charming streets around it make for lovely photos and a sense of stepping back in time.

The Game of Thrones Connection
One of the tour’s highlights is Pujada de Sant Domanec, a street famous for its Game of Thrones scenes. Though the guide will keep the walk to a stop for pictures only, fans will love seeing a real filming location. Multiple reviews praise the guide’s knowledge and the engaging storytelling about the city’s filming spots.

Journey into France: Collioure
After about an hour of driving, you’ll reach the picturesque town of Collioure, on the Mediterranean coast. The town is pretty much a postcard—think colorful buildings, dramatic sea views, and medieval history. The Château Royal de Collioure offers stunning vistas, and the Notre-Dame-des-Anges Church’s bell tower doubles as a lighthouse in its past life.

Two hours to explore and relax
You’ll have free time here for lunch, a stroll, or even a quick dip if the weather permits (bring your swimwear!). Reviewers mention how much they appreciated this free time, with one noting that even rainy weather didn’t spoil their experience. The town’s charm lies in its narrow streets, local art shops, and seaside cafes.

Return to Barcelona
The drive back takes about two hours, giving you a chance to unwind and reflect on your day. Some travelers suggest bringing your swimsuit if you want to enjoy the beach—especially in the summer months.

The Experience’s Strengths

Knowledgeable Guides
Multiple reviews praise guides like Matilde, Guillermo, and Papa Bear for their friendliness, detailed knowledge, and engaging storytelling. They make history come alive, weaving in fun facts, cultural insights, and the quirks of each town.

Comfort & Personal Touch
The private, air-conditioned vehicle, combined with small group sizes, makes the trip comfortable—crucial for a long day. Travelers remark on how this setup allows for more interaction and tailored attention.

Balancing Sightseeing & Free Time
The tour strikes a good balance, with structured visits and enough free time for lunch, photos, or just wandering. Many reviews highlight how this flexibility enhances the experience.

Value for Money
At roughly $113, this tour packs in a full day of sightseeing, expert guiding, and transportation. Considering the number of stops and the transportation logistics handled for you, it’s quite reasonable.

What Could Be Better

While most find the experience excellent, a few points are worth noting. The tour involves a fair amount of driving—about four hours total—so if you’re not comfortable on long road trips, this might feel tiring. Also, the schedule is rather tight, so if you prefer leisure over exploration, it might not suit you.

Plus, entrance to Girona Cathedral costs €12 per person, which isn’t included in the price. If you’re eager to go inside, budget for that. And if rain is forecast, some outdoor activities might be less enjoyable, although the guides seem prepared for weather changes.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal if you’re craving a full, varied day with minimal hassle. It’s perfect for history buffs, Game of Thrones fans, or anyone looking to see both Spanish and French coastlines in one go. The small-group format and guided approach make it especially suitable for travelers who value local insights and personalized attention.

If you’re traveling solo, it’s a great way to meet like-minded explorers. Families with older children might also enjoy it, especially if they’re interested in scenery and culture. However, keep in mind the walking involved and the tight schedule.

FAQs

Do I need my passport for this tour?
Yes, it’s recommended to bring your passport or ID in case of police controls, even if it’s not explicitly mentioned that you need it for crossing borders.

How long is the drive between Barcelona and Girona?
The drive takes about two hours, providing a comfortable start to the day and a scenic introduction to the region.

Is there free time in Collioure?
Yes, you get around two hours free to explore, grab lunch, or relax by the sea.

Are entrance fees included?
No, the Girona Cathedral costs €12 per person and isn’t included. Most other attractions are free to enjoy.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring your passport or ID, some euros for expenses in Collioure, and if you’re visiting during summer, don’t forget your swimwear and towel.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour involves a fair amount of walking and car travel, so it’s better suited for older children comfortable with a full day of sightseeing.

What is the group size?
Maximum of seven travelers, which helps create a more intimate, engaging experience.

What if the weather turns bad?
The tour is dependent on good weather. If canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This “Two Countries in One Day” tour from Barcelona offers a rare chance to experience diverse scenery, history, and culture without spending multiple days on the road. Its small-group approach, guided insights, and well-planned itinerary make it a compelling choice for curious travelers eager to pack a lot into a single day.

If you’re someone who loves learning about new places, enjoys scenic drives, and wants a taste of both Spain and France in one go, this trip could be just what you need. The combination of beautiful coastal views, historic towns, and a friendly guide makes for a memorable day trip that’s well worth the price.

For those who prefer a leisurely pace or want to explore each stop in depth, this might feel a bit rushed. But if you’re after a quick, well-organized adventure that hits all the highlights, it’s worth considering.

Ready to explore two countries in one day? This tour offers a seamless, enjoyable way to see some of the most charming spots on the border of Spain and France, with expert guides and comfort along the way.