Spain and France, as members of the European Union, share a land border and are neighboring countries, located in the north of Spain and the south of France.
This border is approximately 656 km long and is crossed by several roads. Below, you will find useful information about itineraries, how to cross the France–Spain border, and what you should know before traveling.
It is interesting to know that both countries are part of the Schengen Area and use the Euro (€) as their currency. There are no passport control gates or inspection checkpoints at the France–Spain border.
If you are on a road trip in northern Spain or southern France and plan to cross the border, there are no border formalities or customs checks. However, carrying an identification document is always recommended.
One of the most interesting ways to cross the France–Spain border is via Road N20 in France, then continuing on Road N22, which takes you through one of the smallest countries in Europe: Andorra.
Andorra, with an area of only 486 square kilometers, is located between France and Spain. By taking Road N22, you can enter Andorra from France and exit into Spain.
Although France and Spain are members of the European Union, Andorra is not part of the EU. However, it has open borders with both countries.
You can find more information about visiting this country in our Andorra tour itinerary, including suggested stops. For example, if you are looking for one of the largest spa centers in Europe, Andorra la Vella is a great place to stop.
Visitors usually spend one day in Andorra to enjoy its natural beauty, mountain scenery, and lower VAT, which makes shopping attractive. In winter, Andorra is also known for ski resorts, winter activities, and spa hotels in the heart of the Pyrenees.
Long before the modern political border existed, the Pyrenees Mountains formed a natural border between France and Spain. This mountain range has separated the two regions for centuries.
Because of this shared history, the Catalan language is widely spoken on both sides of the border, influenced by both Spanish and French cultures.
Crossing the France–Spain border by road through the Pyrenees is considered one of the most scenic road trips in Europe. Some routes reach elevations of up to 2,408 meters, offering spectacular mountain views.
Visit three countries in one day: Spain, France, and Andorra.

Several Spanish regions lie along this border, including Basque Country, Aragon, Lleida, and Girona. On the French side, you will find Pyrénées-Atlantiques, Hautes-Pyrénées, Haute-Garonne, Ariège, and Pyrénées-Orientales.
There are many picturesque towns worth visiting, such as Collioure, Carcassonne, Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, Panticosa, Cauterets, Arreau, Benasque, Castellar de n’Hug, Barruera, and Portbou.
Collioure, for example, is a charming fishing town just a few kilometers from the border. It is known for its colorful harbor, relaxed atmosphere, wine tasting, shopping, sunbathing, and kayaking.
Do not forget San Sebastián, famous for its beaches and gastronomy. During summer, it is one of the best destinations for water sports and seaside activities.
Depending on your travel route, you can easily visit three countries in one day: Spain, France, and Andorra.
The France–Spain border is home to several protected natural parks. Travelers interested in eco-tourism can choose routes that pass through these areas and even stay overnight in mountain villages.
There are well-established hiking trails throughout the Pyrenees. Camping and wild camping are generally forbidden, and visitors should always follow local regulations and posted signs.
One of the best ways to explore this region is through a “Visit Three Countries in One Day” tour from Barcelona, covering Spain, France, and Andorra.
This itinerary typically starts in Barcelona, passes through Montserrat and the Pyrenees, crosses the Spain–France border, and reaches the charming French town of Ax-les-Thermes.
From France, the route continues into Andorra, where you can explore mountain landscapes, villages, and viewpoints before exiting into Spain via the Andorra–Spain border.

For travelers who prefer more nature and fewer cities, an Andorra tour with hotel pickup is another excellent option. This route allows you to explore the Pyrenees in depth and reach altitudes of nearly 8,000 feet.
