Highlights of France and Barcelona with Madrid Extension

The metropolitan center of southeastern France, vibrant Lyon abounds with stunning architectural masterpieces, gastronomic delights, and immersive museums. This spectacular city, founded by the Romans centuries ago, rivals Paris as a cultural and social hub for exploring the best that France has to offer.

Discover beautifully constructed cathedrals and remnants of the Renaissance in the neighborhood of Vieux Lyon, designated a UNESCO World Heritage site and located on the banks of the Saône River. From the Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste’s vaulted ceilings and exquisite stained-glass windows to the mysterious Traboules, concealed passageways beneath the city, Vieux Lyon is the perfect place to trace Lyon’s rich history. Just north of Vieux Lyon, the remains of the Theatres Romains de Fourvière, built thousands of years ago during Roman occupation, still stand; the amphitheater’s immense stone steps seemingly transport you to another bygone era. Steps away, la Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière, the nineteenth-century basilica overlooking Lyon’s city center, represents a more recent period in Lyonnaise history, adorned in a decadent and colorful Byzantine style.

You'll find dozens of fascinating and unique museums throughout Lyon, including the Musée des Beaux Arts, the Musée Miniature et Cinema, Musée des Automates, La Sucrière, and many more! When you finish wandering through these carefully curated exhibits, stop to savor Lyon’s highly lauded culinary scene, where numerous Michelin starred restaurants serve some of the best food in all of France. Taste everything from coq au vin, quenelles, andouillette, and salade lyonnaise, and relish in the city’s flavorful gourmet paradise.

Lyon, France beckons you!

The French Riviera, or Côte d'Azur, is one of the most iconic and glamorous coastal destinations in the world, attracting visitors from all over the world. Stretching along the southeastern Mediterranean coast of France, it is renowned for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque towns such as Nice, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez. The region offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and rich history, with visitors able to explore everything from the charming medieval villages perched on hillsides to the lively, bustling promenades of modern resorts. Every year the Cannes Film Festival draws thousands of movie lovers to the city as well, making it one of the most important events in the global film industry.

Aside from its famous beaches and opulent lifestyle, the French Riviera also boasts a rich cultural heritage. Travelers can experience numerous art museums, such as the Musée Matisse in Nice and the Picasso Museum in Antibes, which houses the artist’s work from his time in the region. Whether you're basking in the sun on a private beach or strolling through the vibrant markets, the French Riviera offers something for every traveler.

The French Riviera, or Côte d'Azur, is one of the most iconic and glamorous coastal destinations in the world, attracting visitors from all over the world. Stretching along the southeastern Mediterranean coast of France, it is renowned for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque towns such as Nice, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez. The region offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and rich history, with visitors able to explore everything from the charming medieval villages perched on hillsides to the lively, bustling promenades of modern resorts. Every year the Cannes Film Festival draws thousands of movie lovers to the city as well, making it one of the most important events in the global film industry.

Aside from its famous beaches and opulent lifestyle, the French Riviera also boasts a rich cultural heritage. Travelers can experience numerous art museums, such as the Musée Matisse in Nice and the Picasso Museum in Antibes, which houses the artist’s work from his time in the region. Whether you're basking in the sun on a private beach or strolling through the vibrant markets, the French Riviera offers something for every traveler.

Known for its grand architecture, world-class museums, and thriving culinary scene, Madrid offers something for everyone. Walking through the streets of Spain's capital city, visitors can feel its rich heritage while enjoying its dynamic urban atmosphere.

Art lovers will find Madrid to be a cultural treasure trove. The city's "Golden Triangle of Art" features three world-famous museums: the Prado Museum, showcasing works by masters like Velázquez and Goya; the Reina Sofía Museum, home to Picasso’s powerful "Guernica"; and the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, offering an extensive collection of European art. For a glimpse into royal life, visitors can explore the grand Royal Palace of Madrid, one of Europe’s largest palaces, and its beautifully manicured Sabatini Gardens.

Madrid’s culinary scene is another highlight of the city. Visitors can sample local specialties like churros dipped in thick hot chocolate, patatas bravas, or jamón ibérico. The tradition of tapas hopping, where small plates of flavorful dishes are paired with wine or beer for an authentic Madrid experience, is a must.

Visitors can also enjoy Madrid’s green spaces, such as the expansive Retiro Park, perfect for a leisurely rowboat ride on its central lake, or the less crowded Casa de Campo, which offers trails and a cable car ride with panoramic views of the city.

Known for its grand architecture, world-class museums, and thriving culinary scene, Madrid offers something for everyone. Walking through the streets of Spain's capital city, visitors can feel its rich heritage while enjoying its dynamic urban atmosphere.

Art lovers will find Madrid to be a cultural treasure trove. The city's "Golden Triangle of Art" features three world-famous museums: the Prado Museum, showcasing works by masters like Velázquez and Goya; the Reina Sofía Museum, home to Picasso’s powerful "Guernica"; and the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, offering an extensive collection of European art. For a glimpse into royal life, visitors can explore the grand Royal Palace of Madrid, one of Europe’s largest palaces, and its beautifully manicured Sabatini Gardens.

Madrid’s culinary scene is another highlight of the city. Visitors can sample local specialties like churros dipped in thick hot chocolate, patatas bravas, or jamón ibérico. The tradition of tapas hopping, where small plates of flavorful dishes are paired with wine or beer for an authentic Madrid experience, is a must.

Visitors can also enjoy Madrid’s green spaces, such as the expansive Retiro Park, perfect for a leisurely rowboat ride on its central lake, or the less crowded Casa de Campo, which offers trails and a cable car ride with panoramic views of the city.