Ultimate Break company logo
Europe
Italy, France &...

Italy, France & Spain

16 days, 8 cities66
See dates and prices

From $2769 without flightsPayments as low as $76

Aerial view of a city with a large red-domed building at sunset
Aerial view of a city with a large red-domed building at sunset
Aerial view of a city port filled with yachts with mountains in the background
A table with glasses of red wine and a plate of hams and cheeses on it
A large stone ruin with many arches
Trip Type:
or
Activity Level:

Why go?

This is that European experience. Explore Roman art and history (and food), dive into the stunning beaches and seaside villages (and food) of the French Riviera, and indulge in the architecture and nightlife (and food) of Barcelona. This is that experience, the one everyone should have.

Picture yourself

  • Taking that picture at the Leaning Tower of Pisa

  • Kayaking along the Lake of Sainte Croix

  • Soaking in the architectural artwork of La Sagrada Familia

  • Unleashing your inner foodie over tapas and sangria

What you'll get

  • Round-trip flights & airport transfers (or book 'em yourself)

  • 14 nights in handpicked accommodations

  • 14 breakfasts

  • 1 lunch and 2 dinners

  • Expert Tour Director

  • 24/7 support from our travel gurus

  • 3 insider city tours with a local guide

  • Entrance to Parque Guell

Map for the Italy, France & Spain tour
Full trip itinerary

Itinerary

  • Day 1: Overnight Flight

    Board your overnight flight, bound for Italy. Get ready to eat spaghetti on penne on linguine on fettuccine on gnocchi on ravioli on chocolate gelato (not literally, but maybe literally).

  • Day 2: Arrive in Rome + Welcome Dinner

    Welcome to Rome, Italy’s capital city that is bursting at the seams with energy. Locals fill the streets, day and night, usually doing something that involves eating or drinking. And how can you blame them when pasta, pizza, gelato, coffee, and wine are everywhere you go? Rome is all big city/ancient ruins, served with a side of spaghetti.

    In the evening, enjoy a Welcome Dinner of local cuisine and drinks with fellow travelers at an authentic local spot. Afterwards, you’re free to take the party elsewhere!

    Today's highlights:

    • Meet an EF representative at the airport.
    • Transfer to your accommodations and check in.
    • Meet your fellow travelers as they arrive.
    • Take a guided tour of some top sights around Rome.
  • Day 3: Tour Rome

    They say all roads lead to Rome, but once you’re there you quickly realize that all roads actually lead to restaurants. Take the morning to satisfy your cravings and sip some espresso, then enjoy a walking tour of Rome.

    Today's highlights:

    • Tour the city with a local guide who will show you why Rome is one of the most legendary cities in Europe.
    • Experience the heart of ancient Rome with a visit to the Forum, once a hub of activity for the city.
    • See the ruins of several Roman temples, including the Temple of the Vestal Virgins.
  • Day 4: Free Day in Rome + Optional Vatican City Excursion

    Mama mia, a whole day in Rome to do as you please! Explore some of your favorite places form the past few days, look for something new, or do as Lizzie McGuire did and fall in love with a local pop star who says you look exactly like his ex-singing partner. And if none of that sounds appealing, join the Vatican City excursion and catch a glimpse of the most interesting cities you’ve ever seen.

    Today's highlights:

    • Head to the nearest Italian café for a cappuccino—it’s how the locals do.
    • Carpe all of the diem and make the most of your last day in Rome.
    • Cross another country of your list (Vatican City is an independent nation).

    Free time suggestions

    Trevi Fountain: Rumor has it, if turn your back to the Trevi Fountain and toss a coin over your shoulder, it guarantees you’ll return to the Eternal City. Throw in a second coin, and you’ll not only come back, but also find love. Fine print: Significant other not guaranteed by EF Ultimate Break.
    Shopping on Vide del Corso Walk down the longest pedestrian street in the city for some prime shopping. Populated by both locals and tourists, there’s room for everyone on the narrow store-filled street.

    A Visit to the Vatican (extra cost)

    Visit the Pope’s house: Vatican City. Take a guided tour of the Vatican Museum and St. Peter's Basilica, and get your dose of art history up close and personal—viewing Michelangelo's famed Sistine Chapel frescoes.

    Please note: The Vatican is closed on Sundays. In the event that the itinerary day containing this optional lands on a Sunday for your departure, the optional will take place the day before.

    This excursion is pre-book only; if your trip is less than 90 days away, please call 800-766-2645 to purchase. This excursion is also non-refundable 95 days prior to departure.

  • Day 5: Travel to Florence via Orvieto

    Travel to Florence via Orvieto. Goodbye bustling city, hello Tuscan countryside. Florence was king during the Renaissance, and it still holds on to that artsy, fashionable, cultural vibe today.

    Today's highlights:

    • Board your private coach, bound for Florence.
    • Stop in Orvieto, a quaint Italian hill town perched atop a rock cliff.
    • Marvel at the artistry of the facade of Orvieto’s stunning cathedral, built in 1290 (no, that’s not a typo—it’s really that old).
    • Arrive in Florence and begin exploring.
  • Day 6: Tour Florence + Optional Tuscan Wine Tasting

    You’ve got a full day in Florence, the compact capital of the Tuscany region known for its quaint, cobblestone streets and impressive artwork from Renaissance geniuses like Michelangelo and Donatello. Throw on some comfortable shoes and join a local guide for a walking tour of the city. By the end of it, you’ll be looking up how to live in Italy forever.

    *Note: There is no included entry to the Duomo during the guided sightseeing on this day, but you will have free time to return if you so choose.

    Today's highlights:

    • Cross the Ponte Vecchio, the oldest bridge in Florence, home to many of Florence’s jewelers and art merchants. Ready to get some bling?
    • Stroll the Piazza della Signoria, home to Florence’s seat of power, the Palazzo Vecchio, as well as several intricate sculptures.
    • Visit the Duomo Cathedral. Return during your free time and challenge yourself to climb the 463 steps to the top for stunning views of the city.

    Free time suggestions

    Get Some Fresh Air: Loggia dei Lanzi is an open air sculpture museum, with a number of Renaissance statues. It’s beautiful, it’s in the open, and it’s free.
    Leather-Bound Books Florence is known for its plethora of leather goods, from belts and jewelry to purses and wallets. Maybe you can finally buy that leather jacket you’ve always wanted but didn’t think you could pull off. Fun fact: you can.

    Tuscan Wine Tasting (extra cost)

    Some of the world’s best wine come from Tuscany, and you get to sample some at a scenic winery. Next head to the medieval walled town of San Gimignano, home to the world-famous Gelateria di Piazza gelato shop.

    Why wait? Save money by booking this optional excursion before your trip departs.

  • Day 7: Travel to the Italian Riviera via Pisa

    The Italian Riviera. Even the name sounds beautiful. This coastal slice of Italy pulls travelers from all over the world to its stunning beaches, quaint towns, and an authentic—and literal—taste of la dolce vita (the sweet life). Before you reach the coast, you’ll stop for a chance to see one of the most famous, most crooked, and most photographed monuments: The Leaning Tower of Pisa.

    Today's highlights:

    • Travel through Italian countryside to the town of Pisa, where the famous tower leans as it has since the 12th century.
    • Pose, pretending the tower is ice cream or that it’s falling on you—everybody’s doing it.
    • Arrive to your accommodations in the Italian Riviera.
    • Head out on your own for dinner, drinks, and maybe another dinner (not unlikely with food this good).
  • Day 8: Free Day in Italian Riviera + Optional Cinque Terre Excursion

    You’ve settled in to the Riviera lifestyle. Now take the day to explore everything the region has to offer. Bask in the sun on the beach, fill your camera roll with breathtaking photos, or walk through open-air markets. Nothing is off the table today—except for boredom.

    Today's highlights:

    • Wake up, grab an espresso, and head out for an entirely free day in Italian paradise.
    • Pick a hike, any hike for some fresh air and views of classic Italian countryside like you’ve never seen.
    • Opt in for an excursion to Cinque Terre, where more beauty and more relaxation await you.

    Cinque Terre (extra cost)

    Note: This excursion is seasonal. Availability is subject to your tour’s departure date.

    Lay your eyes on the most beautiful coastal scenery anywhere, Cinque Terre. Discover mountainside villages, iconic colorful seaside buildings, and spend the rest of your day enjoying the pebble beaches of Monterosso.

    Why wait? Save money by booking this optional excursion before your trip departs.

  • Day 9: Travel to the French Riviera via Monaco

    Check another country off your list—Monaco, the world’s second-smallest (but possibly swankiest) nation! This country is home to the Monaco Yacht Show, where millionaires and billionaires come together in harmony to throw money at mega-yachts. In 2017, the combined total value for the yachts on sale exceeded $3 billion. After letting that sink in, continue on to see more of the French Riviera.

    Today's highlights:

    • Play millionaire at a stop in Monaco.
    • Feel closer than ever to Elton John, Bono, and Bill Gates (just a few of the celebs with homes in the French Riviera).
    • Wander through local food markets, where you can look at food, take pictures of food, and yes—eat food.
  • Day 10: Explore the Cities of the French Riviera + Optional French Food Tour

    Ready for a full day in Côte d'Azur (that’s what the French call the Riviera)? Trick question! The answer is always yes. Because this place is beautiful. Sundrenched beaches, historic central squares, and, of course, more food await you on this full-day Riviera adventure.

    Today's highlights:

    • Visit several French Riviera towns over the course of one extraordinary day.
    • Keep your camera out for endless photo-ops along the way.

    French Food Tour (extra cost)

    Nosh like a true Niçois on a food crawl to nearly a dozen authentic hidden gems, feasting on treats like savory chickpea pancakes, stuffed peppers, and—oh yeah—plenty of wine.

    Why wait? Save money by booking this optional excursion before your trip departs.

  • Day 11: Free Day in French Riviera

    Sleep in, slow down, and do whatever you want during a free day in the French Riviera. There’s so much to see and do, but if you’re tired of seeing and doing, take a break and relax at one of the many beaches or take in the scenery from a hill town.

    Today's highlights:

    • Enjoy waterfront restaurants, lounge on world famous beaches, explore posh boutiques, and feel like an A-Lister (kind of), because you’re in the vacation hotspot of the world’s rich and famous.
    • Taste-test some local favorites, including socca, the South of France’s take on the traditional crepe. Step aside, Parisian pastries!
    • Channel your inner Picasso (the famous painter who did not cut off his ear) and visit a few esteemed art museums and demonstrations—you’re in the former stomping grounds of many influential artists.
  • Day 12: Travel to Provence via Verdon Gorge

    It’s on to Provence, where scenic countryside inspired artists likes Vincent Van Gogh and Pablo Picasso. The vineyards are vast, and the ratatouille (vegetable stew) delectable. But first, stop at Verdon Gorge river canyon for some lunch and water activities. Look around—what you see is no mirage. But it is paradise.

    Today's highlights:

    • Catch stunning views of Verdon Gorge from (included) pedal boats or kayaks on the Lake of Sainte Croix.
    • Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and explore this seaside town with your Tour Director
    • Hunt for lavender fields that will leave you breathless—and make your nose happy.
  • Day 13: Travel to Barcelona

    You’re going to Barcelona, a city of endless parties, wacky architecture, and premium beaches (which also happen to be where the clubs are). So throw on your walking shoes, your party pants, and any shirt you’d like. Barcelona is the fiesta that keeps on fiesta…ing.

    Today's highlights:

    • Take an introductory walk of Barcelona with your Tour Director. (Stopping for tapas is not required, but highly encouraged.)
    • Stroll Las Ramblas, the main pedestrian thoroughfare lined with bars, cafes, shops, and street performers (some more impressive than others).
    • Stop in Plaça de Catalunya, the city center where old meets new, and pigeons fly next to you, above you, and maybe even through your legs.
  • Day 14: Tour Barcelona + Optional Sagrada Familia

    Barcelona is so well known for its architecture, we decided to dedicate a whole day to showing you the best of it. You’ll follow a local guide by coach and foot through several neighborhoods, all with their own unique flavor. You’ll visit a church that’s been under construction since before your great-grandparents were born, a colorful ceramic salamander welcoming you into a park, and a stadium where really athletic people from around the world competed for the gold in 1992.

    Today's highlights:

    • Explore the Gothic Quarter with your guide. Don't forget your black eyeliner (cue crickets).
    • Visit one of Antoni Gaudí's greatest work of modernist art, Parque Güell. This colorful park is adorned with tilework, dreamlike structures and not a straight line in sight.
    • Head up to Montjuïc, a hill overlooking Barcelona where the 1992 Olympic Games took place (and where you’ll be out of breath from walking up said hill).
    • Check out the unfinished Sagrada Familia cathedral, where Gaudí began construction over 100 years ago.

    Free time suggestions

    OverARCHing Theme: The Arc de Triomf was built as the main entrance for the 1888 Barcelona World Fair. While it may remind you of a different (perhaps more famous) arch, it can certainly, shall we say, stand on its own.
    Comer Little Closer: From paella, a traditional rice dish, to Basque-style tapas, Barcelona has gastronomy locked down. Head out on the town and look for some good eats.

    Sagrada Familia & Sangria (extra cost)

    Antoni Gaudí’s Sagrada Família Basilica is the world’s most unbelievable church—under construction since 1882, finished by 2026 at the earliest. Tour it with a local guide, then enjoy included Sangria and pintxos, which are small finger snacks popular in Spain.

    This excursion is pre-book only; if your trip is less than 30 days away, please call 800-766-2645 to purchase.

  • Day 15: Free Day in Barcelona

    Barcelona is one of the most vibrant cities in Europe, and there’s usually some sort of festival, event, or celebration happening on any given day. Find it. This is your last day to experience as much of it as you can. Even if there’s nothing going on, you’re guaranteed to find something exciting. Whether it’s a restaurant to consume more tapas, a new neighborhood to explore, or a funky building to admire that’s not Gaudí’s design.

    Today's highlights:

    • Head back to Las Ramblas for food, shopping, and Instagram opportunities aplenty.
    • Drool before, during, and after eating pan con tomate, or “bread with tomato,” a simple but delicious Catalan snack.
    • Hit the town (or the beach) for an epic final night out in Barcelona.

    Free time suggestions

    Market Down: Visit La Boqueria, the famous market just off of Las Ramblas, with everything from fresh fruits to meats, flowers and sweets.
    Playa Long Barcelona’s coast is lined with beaches, each with its own personality. Try party-centric Barceloneta, tranquil Caldetes or water sports at Mar Bella.

    Farewell dinner
    Share some last laughs (and maybe shed a few tears) at an included farewell dinner with the group.

  • Day 16: Fly Home

    ¡Adios, amigos!
    Translation: Goodbye, friends. Your next destination awaits—home. Before you head to the airport, enjoy your last few moments together. Take one more group photo. Grab that final drink. (Fine, maybe a couple of drinks.) But this isn’t goodbye. It’s “See you later.” The only question is, where?

    –OR–

    EXTEND YOUR TRIP 2 WAYS

    1. Double the fun
    A lot of our trips line up back to back! Give us a call—we can help you add another and save big while you're at it.

    2. Go ahead or stay behind
    Extending your trip is easy! During checkout, you'll have the option to fly to (or from) the gateway of your choice for an additional fee. We'll adjust your flights accordingly, but you'll be responsible to take care of your transportation, hotels, and other logistics outside of tour.

    Note: Depending on your desired gateways, additional fees may apply.

Reviews


Overall rating: 4.8 out of 5
Based on 66 authentic traveler reviews
  • Fabuloso

      Aliena, traveled Oct. 2023

    Me encanto este viaje. Tienes la oportunidad de ir a varios lugares y tienes mucho tiempo libre para planificarte. Hay que caminar al menos unas 5 millas diarias pero apenas lo notas. La convivencia a veces es bastante difícil porque son hasta 6 personas en un hostel y las habitaciones pueden ser reducidas pero todo depende la mentalidad que tengas. Barcelon... See more

  • A blast! A definite must if you like the Rivieras and the Mediterranean Coast!

      Seung Tae, traveled Oct. 2023

    Fantastic experience all around! This was one of the trips that I wanted to do for the longest time, and I think this specific trip was one of the better ones provided by EF. If you like the Mediterranean coast and the Rivieras, then this trip is a definite must. I just wish that there were more trip options in the month of October and in the fall in general... See more

  • Italy, France, and Spain

      Anonymous, traveled Sep. 2023

    I had the best time on my trip! EF allows me to just show up and enjoy myself while they do all the planning. The tour guides are always so personable and fun and always go out of their way to help give us the best experience!

  • BOOK IT!

      Anonymous, traveled Sep. 2023

    Prepare yourself to have new friends! even if you aren't social. Definitely recommend this trip, just book it. you won't regret it !

  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4

Select your date

  • No Flights Included 
  • Albany, NY 
  • Albuquerque, NM 
  • Amarillo, TX 
  • Anchorage, AK 
  • Atlanta, GA 
  • Austin, TX 
  • Baton Rouge, LA 
  • Billings, MT 
  • Birmingham, AL 
  • Bismarck, ND 
  • Boise, ID 
  • Boston, MA 
  • Bozeman, MT 
  • Bradley, CT 
  • Bristol, TN 
  • Buffalo, NY 
  • Calgary 
  • Cedar Rapids, IA 
  • Charleston, SC 
  • Charleston, WV 
  • Charlotte, NC 
  • Chattanooga, TN 
  • Chicago, IL 
  • Cincinnati, OH 
  • Cleveland, OH 
  • Colorado Springs, CO 
  • Columbia, SC 
  • Columbus, OH 
  • Corpus Christi, TX 
  • Dallas, TX 
  • Dayton, OH 
  • Denver, CO 
  • Des Moines, IA 
  • Detroit, MI 
  • Edmonton 
  • El Paso, TX 
  • Fairbanks, AK 
  • Fayetteville, AR 
  • Fresno, CA 
  • Grand Rapids, MI 
  • Great Falls, MT 
  • Green Bay, WI 
  • Greensboro, NC 
  • Greenville, SC 
  • Helena, MT 
  • Honolulu, HI 
  • Houston, TX 
  • Huntsville, AL 
  • Indianapolis, IN 
  • Jackson, MS 
  • Jacksonville, FL 
  • Kansas City, MO 
  • Knoxville, TN 
  • Las Vegas, NV 
  • Lexington, KY 
  • Little Rock, AR 
  • Los Angeles, CA 
  • Louisville, KY 
  • Lubbock, TX 
  • Madison, WI 
  • Memphis, TN 
  • Miami (MIA, FLL) 
  • Midland, TX 
  • Milwaukee, WI 
  • Minneapolis, MN 
  • Missoula, MT 
  • Mobile, AL 
  • Montreal 
  • Nashville, TN 
  • New Orleans, LA 
  • New York/New Jersey (EWR, LGA, JFK) 
  • Norfolk, VA 
  • Oklahoma City, OK 
  • Omaha, NE 
  • Orlando, FL 
  • Pensacola, FL 
  • Philadelphia, PA 
  • Phoenix, AZ 
  • Pittsburgh, PA 
  • Portland, ME 
  • Portland, OR 
  • Raleigh Durham, NC 
  • Rapid City, SD 
  • Reno, NV 
  • Richmond, VA 
  • Roanoke, VA 
  • Rochester, NY 
  • Saginaw, MI 
  • Salt Lake City, UT 
  • San Antonio, TX 
  • San Diego, CA 
  • San Francisco, CA 
  • San Jose, CA 
  • San Juan, PR 
  • Savannah, GA 
  • Sacramento, CA 
  • Seattle, WA 
  • Shreveport, LA 
  • Sioux Falls, SD 
  • South Burlington, VT 
  • Spokane, WA 
  • Springfield, MO 
  • St.Louis, MO 
  • Syracuse, NY 
  • Tampa, FL 
  • Toronto 
  • Traverse City, MI 
  • Tucson, AZ 
  • Tulsa, OK 
  • Vancouver 
  • Washington DC (BWI, IAD, DCA) 
  • Wichita, KS 
  • Wilmington, NC 
  • Winnipeg, MB 
Dates: May 10, 2024 – May 25, 2024May 10, 2024 – May 25, 2024

Additional costs may apply on departures within 60 days.

    Travel Protection
    Excursions
Total price$3,519

Stress-free booking: You have 48 hours to cancel and receive a full refund.

Back to top