Europe's Capitals of Romance

Name: The Best of Europe: Paris and Barcelona in Eight Days
Brand: JayWay Travel
Rating: 4.91 (14 reviews)

8 Days / 7 Nights

Paris, Barcelona

Average Guest Rating 4.9 / 5

For a romantic European getaway, this carefully planned eight-day itinerary is the perfect introduction to the many charms of Europe. Your journey starts in Paris, a city that epitomizes romance, a destination that no couple in love should miss out on. From world-renowned landmarks, such as the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe, to insanely picturesque neighborhoods that could serve as the setting for the greatest love stories to some of the world's finest pieces of art, Paris is that one city that everyone should visit at least once in their lives. And then there's Barcelona. Dotted with extraordinary examples of Gaudi's artistic genius, from buildings to parks to sites of worship, Barcelona is a destination steeped in history but also a city to savor with all your senses as you watch the sunset sitting on the white sand of La Barceloneta or sip local cava surrounded by smiling locals.
One of our team members in France or Spain will be available to you leading up to and during your trip to answer any questions and arrange local services. You will receive access to your Guest Page, with its information on the best these two countries offer, including things to see and do, and other inside tips from restaurant recommendations to tipping advice. Upon request, we will provide you with an eSIM with data that you can use to reach your local JayWay contact (whom you will meet in person) throughout your trip. In all of our destinations, we offer a variety of memorable 3- to 5-star accommodation options, including boutique hotels and charming B&Bs. With our firsthand experience, we can ensure they are all clean, comfortable, and centrally located, with local ambiance.

4 Nights in Paris

4 Nights in Paris

Paris is situated in the northern part of France. The city sprawls over both banks of the Seine River and on two islands: the Îles Saint Louis and the larger Île de la Cité. The historical city center is built around the Seine, and it has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1991. For a glimpse into the oldest part of Paris, take a stroll along the Seine and around the 1st and 4th districts to admire iconic landmarks, such as the Cathedral of Notre Dame de Paris or the Louvre Museum, among others. But leave some space and time for the rest of the city's districts, as each of Paris' 20 arrondissements possesses incredible treasures to discover.

Day 1

Day 1 - Arrival in Paris

Welcome to Paris! We'll arrange for a driver to meet you at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport and drive you to your centrally located accommodation. The journey time to the city center is about one hour.

Seine Boat Group Cruise Experience Including Dinner (Privilège Service)

Welcome To The City of Light

Included in your vacation package price.

Welcome to Paris! Tonight, indulge in your first glimpse of the city from the enchanting Seine River. This 90-minute cruise promises breathtaking views of iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, Hotel de Ville (City Hall), Pont Neuf (New Bridge), Pont Alexandre, and more. All of this unfolds while you relish a delectably prepared dinner paired with exquisite French wine on an all-glass boat.

Activity Level : Light

Duration : 1 hour and 15 minutes

Day 2

Day 2 - Your First Full Day in Paris

The Magic of Paris in a Day

Included in your vacation package price.

Experience the epitome of Parisian charm with a nostalgic three-and-a-half-hour drive in a vintage 2CV, offering a unique perspective of the city's iconic landmarks. Revel in the enchanting views of the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and an array of other Paris attractions, all from the most picturesque vantage points. This vintage car tour promises not only a journey through the city but a captivating voyage through time, allowing you to immerse yourself in the allure of Paris in a truly distinctive and memorable way.

Activity Level : Easy

Duration : 3 hours and 30 minutes

Closing Time at the Louvre Group Tour - Mona Lisa at Her Most Peaceful

A Glimpse into The Artistic Side of Paris

Included in your vacation package price.

Experience the Mona Lisa in her serene moments with our thoughtfully curated itinerary. Join our Louvre Tour, which guides you through the highlights of the collection, encompassing French paintings, Italian sculptures, and even the foundations of the palace's moat. In a small group and led by an expert local guide, ensure an enriching and personalized exploration, guaranteeing the utmost from this extraordinary visit.

Activity Level : Light

Duration : 3 hours

Day 3

Day 3 - Your Second Full Day in Paris

Champagne Day Trip Small Group Experience

Included in your vacation package price.

If spending a day in the capital of bubbly wine sounds like the ultimate French thing to do, you are just about right. This full-day trip from Paris will introduce you to the charms of the Champagne region. In the company of your knowledgeable guide and small group, spend an unforgettable day sipping on superb champagne while strolling around the very soil that gives birth to the indisputable queen of bubbly wines.

Activity Level : Light

Duration : 11 hours

Day 4

Day 4 - Your Third Full Day in Paris

Enjoying Paris Like a Local

Suggestion to explore on your own

While visiting Paris' iconic attractions is a must, exploring lesser-known districts, often frequented by locals, adds a unique charm to your trip. Cour du Commerce St-André and Canal Saint-Martin offer an authentic glimpse into the lives of Parisians. For a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, Belleville stands out, providing an opportunity to mingle with locals over a glass of wine or indulge in mouthwatering local cuisine. To enhance your authentic Parisian experience, consider a picnic at Buttes-Chaumont, where you can savor delightful local treats amidst the scenic beauty of this hidden gem.

Day 5

Day 5 - Traveling to Barcelona by Train

Say au revoir to Paris, and buenos dias to Barcelona. We will arrange your transfer to the train station and provide you with second-class tickets. If you prefer, you can upgrade to first class for an additional fee. There is one high speed direct train to Barcelona daily, around 9 in the morning. Once on the train, sit back and enjoy the 6.5-hour journey. Flights are also available, and can be cheaper, but a long train journey through France and into Spain can be a great way to catch up on some reading or enjoy the scenery.

We also offer the following excursions in Paris

Catacombs of Paris Self-Guided Visit

Strenuous45 minutes

Chateau Chambord and Chateau Chenonceau, Full Day Private Tour to Loire Valley

Moderate11 hours

Disneyland Daily Entrance Ticket ( No Premier Access Ultimate and No Transportation Included)

Light12 hours

Eiffel Tower Tickets, 2nd Floor with Optional Summit Access

Light1.5 hours

3 Nights in Barcelona

3 Nights in Barcelona

Barcelona is a city with a big historic legacy. Its origins can be traced back to the 1st-century BC when it became the Roman colony of Barciro. Today Antoni Gaudí’s Modernist architecture has become the main attraction for visitors from all over the world. Barcelona has two UNESCO listings covering nine buildings. Seven of them are by Gaudi! Despite its age, a youthful, energetic city vibe can be felt in all Barcelona’s quarters. Embrace your hidden love of Gothic aesthetics followed by Catalan cuisine with a private chef and finish your evening with a ramble on La Rambla, the heart of social Barcelona. So whether you feel like a picnic overlooking the beach-fronted La Estrella Herida, a private tapas tour throughout the city, or a stroll through the Gaudi-inspired Park Güell, there is something for everyone!

Day 5

Day 5 - Arrival in Barcelona

When you arrive at Barcelona's train station, we will have a driver there to meet you and take you to your accommodation.

Discover the surprising drink of Barcelona's Happiest Hour

Suggestion to explore on your own

In Barcelona, the tradition of vermouth hour remains timeless. Whether the oldest establishments or the most contemporary, all the "temples of vermouth" in the city share an unwavering passion for this fortified wine. Locally known as ‘vermouth hour,’ it has experienced a resurgence in popularity, particularly among the younger demographic. Numerous bars across the city now offer their own homemade variations, accompanied by traditional pairings like sardines, olives, and crisps. Some, like El Xampanyet and La Vermuteria del Tano, boast nearly a century of history, while others, such as Balius in Poblenou, blend modernity with a commitment to upholding this cherished tradition.

Day 6

Day 6 - Your First Full Day in Barcelona

Old Quarter Private Walking Tour with Food & Wine Tasting

Get a grounding in Barcelona

Included in your vacation package price.

Today you'll receive the perfect introduction to Barcelona with a private tour exploring the historic Ciutat Vella, including the charming Gothic and Born neighborhoods, led by a knowledgeable and personable guide. You will enjoy a comprehensive introduction to Barcelona and Catalunya and crown the experience with tasting tapas and wine in a traditional restaurant.

Activity Level : Moderate

Duration : 3 hours

Day 7

Day 7 - Your Second Full Day in Barcelona

Gaudi Highlights eBike Group Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

On this tour, you will follow the traces and influence of the Master everywhere. You will ride through the Gothic Quarter, Park Ciutadella, and the Eixample neighborhood towards Gaudís most appreciated magnum opus, the Sagrada Família. You will also hear anecdotes from Gaudís life and better understand his fantastic architecture and how his four big passions influenced his style.

Activity Level : Light

Duration : 3 hours

Day 8

Day 8 - Departure Day

The driver will pick you up from your accommodation and take you to the airport for your departing flight. The duration of the drive is about 30 minutes.

We also offer the following excursions in Barcelona

Barcelona Old Town Walking Group Tour with Flamenco Show & Tapas in the Born District

Moderate4 hours

Barcelona Private Cooking Class - Farm To Table Experience

Moderate6 hours

Barcelona Private Food Tour

Moderate4 hours

Barcelona Secret Forest - Nature Hike and Best Views Small Group Tour

Strenuous5 hours 30 minutes

What's Included

Here are all the services provided as part of your complete vacation package. See what every JayWay trip includes.
Please let us know if you'd like to upgrade any transfers or add any additional tours or excursions to your itinerary.

Paris

4 Nights Accommodation

Breakfast (hotels only)

Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport Arrival Transfer

Seine Boat Group Cruise Experience Including Dinner (Privilège Service)

The 2CV Great Escape

Closing Time at the Louvre: Mona Lisa at Her Most Peaceful

Champagne Day Trip Small Group Experience

Paris Train Station Arrival Transfer

Paris - Barcelona Train

Barcelona

3 Nights Accommodation

Breakfast (hotels only)

Barcelona Railway Station Arrival Transfer

Old Quarter Walking Private Tour with Food & Wine Tasting

Gaudi Highlights eBike Group Tour

Barcelona Airport Departure Transfer

package excludes:

Flights to and from Europe.
Tips for Tour Guides, Drivers and Local Reps.
Meals (other than breakfast if included in room rate and meals listed as included in food tours and excursions, unless explicitly stated otherwise).
Parking fees for your Rental Car (if you are booking one with us) unless otherwise indicated. Some hotels provide free parking facilities.
Travel Insurance. See the insurance link on our website

Benefits of Traveling with JayWay

A JayWay vacation is more than the sum of its parts. Our team work tirelessly to ensure your experience is memorable for all the right reasons. Your trip is personalized to maximize your enjoyment. You're taken care of every step of the way.

A Travel Advisor who speaks your language

We will make sure that all your requirements and interests are taken into account in preparing your itinerary.

A totally tailored itinerary for your vacation

Your trip is customized for you by an experienced trip planner and an expert on the region.

A choice of hand-picked hotels and excursions

We've personally inspected and tested all the hotels and local tour providers we work with to ensure quality.

Detailed pre-trip preparation to make the most of every day

Your Europe-based Tour Manager will be in touch by email and phone a month before you arrive to finalize timings.

On-trip Concierge Service to smooth out any bumps in the road

Your tour manager is at your service throughout your journey. We'll provide a local SIM so you can stay connected.

Personalized Guest Page to make sure you're not missing out

Packed with detailed information and recommendations curated by locals on the best things to do, see and eat.

Glowing Reviews from Our Guests

4.9 / 5

Average of our Guest's Ratings of vacation packages including these destinations

Marilyn & Terry

California

We have taken two trips with JayWay and have received excellent service each time. As we’ve gotten older we still prefer independent travel but really like the extra assistance with transfers, local into private tours and so much information about each place we went.Highly recommend!

Year : 2023
Visited : Italy, France
Itinerary : Florence, Paris
Rating :

5 / 5

Sally & Shane

Oregon

JayWay created a trip that was custom tailored to our interests. Every aspect of the trip seemed designed specifically for us and the In Country guide, Tea, was constantly in touch to ensure that our custom trip unfolded flawlessly with zero stress and maximum enjoyment. We can't recommend JayWay highly enough.

Year : 2023
Visited : France, Italy, Slovenia, Croatia
Itinerary : Nice, Venice, Ljubljana, Bled, Bovec, Rovinj, Plitvice, Zadar, Split, Hvar, Korcula, Dubrovnik, Zagreb, Paris
Rating :

5 / 5

Tom & Shannon

Ohio

JayWay Travel went above and beyond our expectations. We would definitely recommend the service to friends and family.

Year : 2023
Visited : France
Itinerary : Paris, Avignon, Nice
Rating :

4.8 / 5

Get an Instant Price Estimate

Choose the month of travel, how many travelers and what star level accommodation you'd like to stay in, then get an instant price estimate.

Once you’ve done that you can request a tailor-made itinerary based on this by entering just a few more details.

Per Person Package Price from^*

Sending ...

Thank you!

Thank you for your interest in taking a trip based on this itinerary. One of our expert travel advisors will be in touch soon to start tailoring it precisely to your preferences.

Ooops!?

Something went wrong at our end, please try again in a moment.