Barcelona City Break by Rail
- 6
- £999
- Spain
- Travel by Eurostar and high-speed TGV to Avignon in the heart of Provence
- Continue across the Spanish border to Barcelona
- Spend 3 nights in this fabulous city on the coast
- Return via Lyon with a night to enjoy some of this city’s famous food
- Decide when you would like to travel
- Adapt the route to suit your plans
- Upgrade hotels and rail journeys
- Add extra nights, destinations and/or tours
- All rail journeys, in standard class
- Seat reservations where required
- 5 nights’ hotel accommodation with breakfast
- Despatch of tickets by email
- Proactive rerouting in case of strikes or disruptions
Suggested Itinerary
Head for International Departures at London St Pancras and catch a Eurostar bound for Lille or Paris. We’ll give you suggested timings to Lille so that it’s a nice and easy change here for your onward journey to Avignon. But if these timings don’t work for you, please just let us know.
From Lille, you’ll race through France at speeds of up to 200 miles per hour, heading towards Avignon. On arrival here, check in for an overnight stay at the Avignon Grand Hotel (or similar), with plenty of time to enjoy dinner in this stunning city. If you have the time, why not add an extra night here?
You’ll need to leave straight after breakfast this morning and return to the station for a direct service which will take you across the Spanish border and down to Barcelona. When you arrive at Barcelona Sants station, make your way to the Catalonia Born (or similar) where you will be spending the next 3 nights.
Barcelona is the regional capital of Catalonia, located on the Mediterranean Sea. It’s become one of the most popular city destinations in Spain, with its wonderful architecture and numerous attractions.
You have two days to experience Barcelona at its vibrant best. Explore the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the awe-inspiring Sagrada Família, the elegant Passeig de Gràcia with Gaudí’s celebrated Casa Batlló and La Pedrera buildings, and the historic lanes of the Gothic Quarter. Stroll along La Rambla towards the waterfront, pause in the serene cloisters of the Cathedral, and make time for the Picasso Museum or the Museu d’Història de Barcelona, both offering illuminating perspectives on the city’s artistic and cultural story.
For sweeping views across the skyline, head up to colourful Park Güell or take the cable car to Montjuïc which features gardens, galleries and panoramic terraces.
It’s time to leave Barcelona today and make your way back through France to the UK. It is possible to do this in one day but we highly recommend making a stop en route. Lyon is the perfect option as it divides the journey neatly and has a fantastic selections of restaurants for the last evening meal of your holiday.
You’ll arrive in the early afternoon, so once you’ve checked in at the Mercure Lyon Part-Dieu (or similar), there’s time to have a look around the city too. Don’t miss the cobbled streets of the Old Town or the view from the Fourviere Basilica, which you can reach on foot or by funicular.
Check out of your hotel today and head back into the station at Lyon Part Dieu for your return TGV service to Lille or Paris. From either destination, you can connect to a Eurostar service, taking you back to London.
Typical hotels on this itinerary
Avignon
The Avignon Grand Hotel is conveniently located close to Avignon’s central station just outside the historic city walls. All bedrooms feature free Wi-Fi internet access, air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs and tea & coffee making facilities, with a separate seating area. The hotel also offers a small rooftop pool, a gym, a bar and a 24-hour reception.
Barcelona
Occupying a 19th century residence in the El Born district of Barcelona, the Catalonia Born offers comfortable accommodation within easy reach of the city’s main attractions. The hotel features a rooftop swimming pool and a snack bar where you can enjoy free snacks and drinks during the afternoon and evening. Bedrooms are decorated in a classic style with air-conditioning and free Wi-Fi access.
Lyon
Conveniently located close to Lyon’s Part Dieu station, this hotel also offers access to Lyon’s historic centre via local metro and tram links. All bedrooms are sound-proofed and air-conditioned, with free Wi-Fi internet access, flat-screen TVs and tea & coffee making facilities. The hotel also offers a restaurant, where you can enjoy local and traditional French cuisine along with a wine bar.
Upgrade your accommodation
Barcelona
Hotel Arts Barcelona rises 44 stories above the seafront, making this Barcelona hotel’s façade of blue glass and exposed steel a true beacon of luxury. From a contemporary collection of art, to award-winning dining, this luxury Barcelona hotel provides guests with unparalleled access to all this vibrant destination has to offer.
Lyon
Located in the centre of Lyon on the Place Bellecour, Hotel Le Royal has been welcoming guests since 1912. The hotel offers 72 bedrooms and suites, including 10 suites, with classic décor and luxury amenities. Enjoy a delicious breakfast at Côté Cuisine, a dinner prepared by chefs from the well-known Paul Bocuse Institute for dinner and a signature cocktail to round off the day at the Côté Bellecour bar.
