Exploring Spain and France with Great Rail Journeys
24/07/2025 · By Rob Payne
Discover the scenic delights of northern Spain and southern France with Great Rail Journeys, enjoying coastal views, rich culture and charming rail trips.
Read moreSun-drenched coastlines, flamenco dancing, mouthwatering tapas and world-class wine are just the tip of the iceberg in Spain. But beyond the beaches and bustling cities lies a land rich in tradition, history and unforgettable landscapes.
With over 50 years' experience crafting exceptional rail holidays, Great Rail Journeys are experts in showcasing the true highlights of Spain - whether it's exploring the Moorish architecture of the Alhambra in Granada, uncovering the works of renowned artist Salvador Dali or sampling traditional Basque pintxos in the gastronomic city of San Sebastián.
Now with our brand-new tours, you can immerse yourself in even more of Spain, staying in historic Parador hotels while exploring sights along the Camino de Santiago or embarking on an escorted walking tour to experience the joys of Catalonia.
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These unique hotels have been leading Spanish tourism for more than a century. In 1910, the Spanish Government created hotels in authentic accommodation, preserving historic sites. Now, they offer a luxurious insight into the country's culture and hospitality.
Journey by rail through Spain's most captivating regions - from the vineyard -covered hills of Rioja to the grand architecture of Córdoba and Seville. Explore charming rural villages, sip local wine in rustic taverns and discover the rich culture that makes Spain truly unforgettable.
Wherever you wish to explore in 2026, we have an expert-crafted Spanish holiday for you. Uncover Andalucía and the Camino de Santiago while staying in luxury Parador hotels, discover Catalonia by rail, soak up northern Spain's culture or walk the Catalan coast.
Uncover the country's history through the architecture of Andalucía. With elaborate Moorish influences showcased in Granada's Alhambra and Cordoba's Mezquita, explore UNESCO World Heritage sites in spellbinding southern Spain.
A celebration of regional differences, Spain's cuisine offers something for every palate. From the celebrated wine region of La Rioja to the famed city of gastronomy, San Sebastian, the Basque Country shows off its culinary heritage like nowhere else.
Uncover the gems of Spain and France's Basque Country from a grand base, a fortified castle in medieval Hondarribia, a picturesque town with a global reputation for great food. This gastronomy-packed tour includes a tour of San Sebastián with a sampling of pintxos at lunchtime, as well as entry into the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao. Take a...
Based in the attractive coastal town of Roses, explore the rugged Costa Brava and experience the region's cultural and gastronomic highlights. Cruise around the picturesque Cap de Creus peninsula to the fishing village of Cadaqués, savouring local flavours with lunch at a vineyard. Explore Barcelona, which showcases the fantastic...
Combining five-star luxury with superb excursions and stunning views of the golden Douro from our outstanding ship, custom-built to navigate the delightful Douro, this brand-new tour delivers a fascinating insight into Portuguese culture on guided tours, onboard events and port tastings. The MS Estrela offers unparalleled comfort and a...
From the coastal town of Roses, discover the glistening Catalan coast and ride into the Pyrenees, taking in the stunning scenery of France and Spain on this relaxing holiday. Journey through peaceful landscapes on the Núria Valley Rack Railway and ride the Little Red Train from Rivesaltes to Axat in France's Pyrenean foothills. Explore...
Discover the rich cultural heritage and artistry of Spain. On a journey through iconic cities, we travel from the capital of Madrid, into Moorish Andalucía and Barcelona. We explore Granada's World Heritage Alhambra palaces and gardens, Seville's vibrant landmarks including its historic cathedral, and wander through Córdoba's magnificent...
Fly to Lisbon to uncover the sights of the capital on a guided tour including a trip on a heritage tram. After visiting Sintra's colourful palaces, journey to Porto to board a brand-new ship for a cruise along the golden Douro. Superb excursions to Lamego Cathedral, Castelo Rodrigo, Salamanca and Mateus Palace are enhanced by dinner at a...
Fly to Lisbon and explore Sintra's palaces on a Portuguese voyage of discovery before embarking on a seven-night Douro cruise. Drifting through golden valleys and past enchanting towns and wine estates, our cruise reveals the best of this serene river, stopping at wonderful ports enroute. We set sail from Porto, tracing the Douro's path.
Discover the best of Andalucía on this unforgettable holiday, exploring the region's three most iconic cities. There is also plenty of free time for you to relax by the hotel pool or explore the local area at your leisure. From a base in Antequera, often referred to as 'the crossroads of Andalucía', embark on guided tours of the historic...
Flying in to Porto, set sail for a seven-night cruise along the Douro. Our floating hotel drifts past golden valleys, enchanting towns and wine estates as the route reveals the timeless beauty of this serene river, stopping at wonderful ports along the way. A showcase of culture, history and scenery in the Douro Valley, our journey takes us...
Embark on an immersive exploration of Catalonia's ancient charm and stunning coasts during scenic hikes and visits to fascinating locations on this walking tour. Based in the picturesque towns of Roses and Calella, enjoy panoramic views while walking from a 10th-century hilltop monastery to an idyllic harbour town. Sail to Cadaqués to...
Follow the tracks of the ancient Moors from the shores of Spain to mystical Moroccan cities. Discover the diverse architecture of Barcelona and the treasures of Andalucía's capital, Seville, before crossing the Strait of Gibraltar to Morocco. Soak up Morocco's flavours in Casablanca, Rabat, Fes, Meknes and Marrakech, and experience its rich...
Embrace the spirit of exploration on an island-hopping journey which takes in the beauty, culture and immense history of the entrancing eastern Mediterranean. Journey by train to Barcelona for a tour of the city, before cruising the Mediterranean on the luxurious Celebrity Equinox to medieval Valletta on Malta. Encounter the iconic...
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