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 moreBoasting cultural Barcelona and the medieval city of Girona, the golden beaches of the Costa Brava and delightful heritage railways, Catalonia is one of our customers' most popular holiday destinations.
Our tours based in the charming seaside town of Roses are all about relaxation. Bask on the glistening Catalan coast, ride into the foothills of the Pyrenees on the famous Little Red Train and take a trip on the Núria Valley Rack Railway through a peaceful valley. Besides scenic trains, uncover the world of surrealist artist Salvador Dalí on a visit to his exuberant museum in Figueres, and explore the picture-perfect town of Besalú.
Another way to experience beautiful Catalonia is on our new Walking Tour, featuring medieval towns, captivating culture and hidden coves. Staying in idyllic Roses and Calella, enjoy panoramic views on a walk from a hilltop monastery to a pretty harbour town. Sail to Cadaqués to explore the rugged Cap de Creus, hiking a section of the Cami de Ronda. Between walks, discover Dalí's artwork in his hometown, spend time in Girona, Besalú and Pals, and taste authentic Catalan wine at a rustic estate.
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Best known for its Gothic Quarter and magnificent Gaudí creations including the Sagrada Familia and fantastical Parc Guëll, Barcelona's seaside neighbourhoods exude coastal charm, with leafy squares and buzzing bodegas. Sample Catalan tapas at the Boquería market or look out over the city from Montjüic Castle or Gaudí's Parc Guell. Wander through medieval Girona and the ancient streets of Besalú with its distinctive arched stone bridge.
The rugged Costa Brava has many facets and hidden gems, with medieval fortress towns, glorious bays and golden sandy beaches. Sail along the beautiful unspoilt Cap de Creus peninsula to charming Cadaqués, and - on our new Walking Tour - experience panoramic views of this beautiful coastline on various hikes, including one along a section of the long-distance Cami de Ronda.
In Barcelona, you can step back in time among the atmospheric streets of the Gothic Quarter. City galleries include the Picasso Museum, the Museum of Contemporary Art and Galeria SENDA - which houses bold artwork. On day trips to Figueres, discover the quirky Salvador Dalí Musuem, while a boat ride around the Cap de Creus peninsula takes you to the harbour town of Cadaqués, a light-filled location that has inspired many artists.
Catalonia is also loved for its delightful railways. The Little Red Train takes us into the Pyrenean foothills, past châteaux, vineyards and forests, with the option of riding in open-air carriages in summer. Encounter the Núria Valley on the Núria Valley Rack Railway, ride the iconic 'Canary Train' into breathtaking mountain vistas, and board the charming Roses Express, which reveals the beauty of the Bay of Roses.
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...
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...
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 architecture of...
Rolling foothills, sprawling ocean views and Pyrenean peaks lie ahead on this holiday on the coast of Catalonia. While based at a beachfront resort in Roses, experience the undulations of the landscape and the region's idyllic towns with four distinct rail experiences. Uncover lush views of the Núria Valley on the Núria Valley Rack Railway...