Spain, France, Italy in 2 Weeks: A Grand Tour of European Capitals
Embark on a 14-day journey through three iconic European countries, experiencing the vibrant culture of Barcelona, the romantic allure of Paris, and the ancient wonders of Rome, with scenic train travel and charming day trips in between.
- 1Barcelona
- 2Paris
- 3Florence
- 4Rome
Day 1: Arrive Barcelona
Arrive in Barcelona, settle into your accommodation, and begin your Spanish adventure with an evening exploration of the historic Gothic Quarter.
Highlights
- Land at Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN) and make your way to the city center, perhaps via Barcelona Sants train station.
- Wander through the atmospheric Barri Gòtic, discovering its narrow lanes, hidden squares, and Roman traces.
- Savour a classic Catalan Pa Amb Tomàquet, a simple yet iconic tomato-rubbed bread.
Day 2: Explore Barcelona
Dedicate your day to Gaudí's architectural masterpieces, immersing yourself in the unique Modernisme style that defines Barcelona.
Highlights
- Marvel at the soaring towers and extraordinary light of Gaudí’s unfinished Basílica de la Sagrada Família.
- Explore the whimsical Park Güell Monumental Zone, enjoying its mosaics, viaducts, and city views.
- Admire the imaginative Casa Batlló on Passeig de Gràcia, known for its bone-like façade and colorful ceramics.
Day 3: Bookable day trip from Barcelona to Girona
Take a day trip by train to Girona, a city rich in medieval history with charming streets waiting to be explored.
Highlights
- For planning, the earliest outbound departure is 05:44 and the latest return departure is 23:05.
- Catch an early train from Barcelona to Girona (earliest at 05:44, tickets from €7), arriving in about 57m.
- Explore Girona's Barri Vell, a dense medieval quarter of lanes, stairs, and monuments.
Day 4: Barcelona -> Paris
Journey by train from Barcelona to the romantic capital of Paris, arriving in time for an evening stroll along the Seine with iconic Eiffel Tower views.
Highlights
- Travel comfortably by train from Barcelona Sants to Paris Gare de Lyon, a journey taking around 7h 4m with tickets from €59.
- Take an evening stroll along the Seine River, admiring the illuminated Eiffel Tower.
- Consider a classic Croque-Monsieur for a quick Parisian bite at a local brasserie.
Day 5: Explore Paris
Immerse yourself in Parisian art and history, visiting world-renowned museums and the area around Notre-Dame Cathedral.
Highlights
- Discover masterpieces like the Mona Lisa at the Louvre Museum, the world's most visited museum.
- Explore the historic Île de la Cité, walking between Notre-Dame Cathedral and Sainte-Chapelle.
- Enjoy a traditional Boeuf Bourguignon for dinner, a beloved French comfort dish.
Day 6: Explore Paris
Experience the bohemian charm of Montmartre and enjoy panoramic views of Paris from the Sacré-Cœur Basilica.
Highlights
- Wander through Montmartre, a historic hilltop district known for its artists, stairways, and village-like atmosphere.
- Visit the Sacré-Cœur Basilica for breathtaking panoramic views over the city.
- Explore the vibrant streets and enjoy the unique character of this iconic Parisian neighborhood.
Day 7: Explore Paris
Spend your final full day in Paris exploring the grand Champs-Élysées, the Arc de Triomphe, and the impressive Musée d'Orsay.
Highlights
- Stroll along the grand Champs-Élysées, linking Place de la Concorde and the Arc de Triomphe.
- Ascend the Arc de Triomphe for a rooftop panorama of the city.
- Admire Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces at the Musée d'Orsay, housed in a magnificent former railway station.
Day 8: Paris -> Florence
Travel by train from Paris to the heart of Tuscany, Florence, and enjoy an evening walk to the iconic Ponte Vecchio.
Highlights
- Board a train from Paris Gare de Lyon to Firenze Santa Maria Novella, a journey taking around 7h 6m with tickets from €107.
- Upon arrival, take a leisurely walk to the Ponte Vecchio, Florence's most iconic bridge lined with historic shops.
- Savour a traditional Florentine Bistecca Alla Fiorentina, a thick T-bone steak, for dinner.
Day 9: Explore Florence
Immerse yourself in the Renaissance art and architecture of Florence, visiting world-famous galleries and the magnificent Duomo complex.
Highlights
- Explore the Uffizi Gallery, home to masterpieces by Botticelli, Leonardo, and Michelangelo.
- Visit the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, admiring Brunelleschi’s dome and the Gothic marble facades.
- See Michelangelo’s David at the Galleria dell'Accademia, a must for art enthusiasts.
Day 10: Bookable day trip from Florence to Pisa
Embark on a day trip by train to Pisa to witness its iconic Leaning Tower and the architectural wonders of Piazza dei Miracoli.
Highlights
- For planning, the earliest outbound departure is 00:40 and the latest return departure is 23:50.
- Take a train from Florence to Pisa (earliest at 00:40, tickets from €5), with a journey time of about 57m.
- Capture classic photos with the world-famous Leaning Tower of Pisa in the Piazza dei Miracoli.
Day 11: Florence -> Rome
Travel by train to Rome, the Eternal City, and spend your afternoon exploring the ancient Pantheon and the lively Piazza Navona.
Highlights
- Enjoy a scenic train journey from Firenze Santa Maria Novella to Roma Termini, taking approximately 2h 45m with tickets from €19.
- Visit the Pantheon, the best-preserved ancient Roman temple, celebrated for its dome and oculus.
- Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Piazza Navona, admiring Bernini's fountains and enjoying some people-watching.
Day 12: Explore Rome
Delve into ancient Roman history with visits to the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, stepping back in time to the heart of an empire.
Highlights
- Explore the monumental Colosseum, the ancient amphitheatre famed for its gladiatorial history.
- Wander through the vast archaeological area of the Roman Forum, discovering temples, arches, and civic ruins.
- Enjoy a classic Roman Pasta Alla Carbonara, known for its rich flavor without cream.
Day 13: Explore Rome
Dedicate your day to exploring Vatican City, including the awe-inspiring St. Peter's Basilica and the extensive Vatican Museums.
Highlights
- Discover the world-famous Vatican Museums, home to the Sistine Chapel and Raphael Rooms.
- Visit St. Peter's Basilica, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture and one of the largest churches in the world.
- Explore the charming cobbled lanes of Trastevere in the evening, known for its local character and nightlife.
Day 14: Depart Rome
Enjoy a final morning in Rome for some last-minute souvenir shopping before heading to Leonardo da Vinci International Airport (FCO) for your departure.
Highlights
- Spend your morning picking up unique Italian souvenirs or revisiting a favorite spot.
- Travel to Leonardo da Vinci International Airport (FCO) for your flight home, or depart from Roma Termini train station for onward travel.
- Consider Ciampino Airport (CIA) as an alternative, located 13-13.6 km southeast of the city, primarily serving low-cost carriers.
France
Italy
