Monaco to Barcelona

(12 Days - Departs Daily on a Private Basis)
Monaco, Avignon, Carcassonne, Costa Brava, Barcelona

This private luxury tour is an overland journey along the coast of the Mediterranean Sea through some of the most beautiful, historic and culturally significant regions in southern France (including Monaco) and northern Spain.

Begin in sophisticated Monte-Carlo with a stay at an elegant luxury resort overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Explore the city and Prince’s Palace, relax on the beach, or celebrate with a special meal at a local restaurant. Enjoy a day with your own private driver-guide at your disposal to tour the endlessly fascinating attractions and towns in the Cote d’Azur region, such as Nice, Eze and Saint-Paul de Vence.

Continue inland to Provence, stopping in Aix-en-Provence and, if desired, exploring the art, wine and architecture at Chateau La Coste en route to Avignon. Here, see the wonderful main market, the antiques district, and historic attractions such as  the Palais des Papes, an imposing fortress-palace from which renegade cardinals once challenged the Vatican. One day, take an excursion to the Provencal countryside and explore the countryside. Options include markets, cultural sites, Roman ruins in Bonnieux, and villages such as Lacoste, Gordes, Roussillon, Lourmarin, Arles, or L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue.

Next, visit Carcassonne, a medieval fortified town that looks straight out of a fairytale. With your expert local guide, wander the narrow cobblestone streets, and explore the ancient crenellated walls, castle and churches of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Cross the border into Spain and the Costa Brava, the heartland of Catalonia, where the region’s unique culture is apparent in its cuisine, architecture and language. One day, enjoy a private excursion to Figueres, birthplace of Salvador Dali and home to the fascinating Dali Theatre-Museum, and Port Lligat, the tiny port near windswept Cadaques that served as both inspiration and home to Dali. Also visit Girona, with its beautifully preserved cathedral, Arab baths and old Jewish quarter. On an optional excursion, perhaps tour some of the many charming medieval villages that dot the countryside.

End your tour in Barcelona, one of Europe's most dynamic centers of modern design and cutting-edge cuisine. Discover Gaudi’s fantastical structures such as Sagrada Familia, Casa Mila, Casa Batllo or the hillside Parc Guell. Visit some of the city’s excellent museums, such as the Picasso Museum or Miro Museum. Stroll along Las Ramblas—Barcelona’s most famous boulevard—and explore the narrow streets of the Gothic Quarter and La Ribera. If desired, explore the city’s shopping districts, stopping at upscale boutiques along the broad Passeig de Gracia and design shops in the stylish Born and Raval neighborhoods. Also visit the city’s leading food markets, including the Santa Caterina Market and La Boqueria Market.