We have 16 days in France and Spain this summer. We will spend 6 days in Paris then head for Spain, flying out of Barcelona at the end. I'm looking for recommendations for an interesting path to get from Paris to Madrid or Barcelona with one or two stops along the way. We probably prefer taking a train but would consider a car.
Posted by
Boston
4132 posts
I think if you want to see some sights enroute that you'd be better off going to Barcelona first and then flying home from Madrid. It just works better logistically. If you define "in between" broadly, you can visit Provence by train, then take trains down the coast to Barcelona. I'd prefer to take a little more time and visit SW France, but that really needs a car for part of it. Sounds like that might not be for you, though. If I really just wanted to get to Spain quickly I'd look into flying (to Madrid if you like). I know that's not exactly you but on the other hand if you take the train (except for night train, and you might as well fly) you won't have time for much sightseeing anyway.
Posted by
OP
Dallas, Texas, US
2 posts
Thanks - anuthing in particualr that interests you in SW France?
Posted by
Boston
4132 posts
Well, the Dordogne and Lot valleys are astonishing, with old chateaux (of the Hundred Years War variety) and cave paintings. Many interesting hill towns from St Cirq to Rodez to Castres. Albi is of interest historically, as are the ruined forts of the Albigensian crusade that march into the foothills of the Pyrenees; I also like Carcassonne, though some find it too touristy. Collioure makes a pretty break just before the border, you could return your car in Perpignan and take trains the rest of the way. But all this requires a car and some time. In two days you would be mostly in transit rather than sightseeing.