Day trip from Barcelona to France
 

Can anyone suggest a nearby city in France to visit from Barcelona?<BR><BR>I'm not looking to drive more than 2-3 hours.<BR><BR>Suggestions appreciated!<BR><BR>Thanks :)

Perpignan, a very Catalan town with some historical sights. Some villages in Haut-Pyr&eacute;n&eacute;es (I know you said cities).<BR>It's around 200 km to Perpignan on autopista A7, taking around 2 hours. Carcassonne (beware daytrippers!) or B&eacute;ziers (fine cathedral) further hour or so.

Thanks for the suggestions... do you think either place is worth it for a day?

My personal opinion is no, unless you must visit France. Girona makes an easy day trip from BCN, a lot quieter but equally historical and atmospheric, esp around the old Jewish quarter. From there you can reach Figueres for Dali museum, or inland to Banyoles and Besalu, both gem of a place.

Again, not a city, but on the coast southeast of Perpignan is the very lovely Collioure. It is extremely picturesque with a beautiful small cafe lined harbour, an interesting fort and castle, and some delightful little shops and restaurants. It was and is a favorite of many artists -- and for good reason.

I second Patrick's vote for Colliure. It is really a delightful town to savor. A little futher than Perpignan, but, from what I hear, well worth it. (I've not been to Perpignan, but it doesn't get great reviews, unlike Colliure.) If you have time, the Dali Museum in Figueres is definitely worth a stop.

I just returned from a trip to Barcelona. We took a day trip to Girona and to a fabulous castle just outside of Perpignon. The castle gives tours in English. We hired an American woman named Debi to take us to these places. She also gave us a tour of the city of Barcelona. It was nice to have a private escorted tour with someone who knew the area well. I would recommend that you contact her for the day trip and for a tour of Barcelona as well. Debi's e-mail address is [email protected]. <BR>Angela