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France, Italy and Spain Tours & Trips

From historic Rome to the sunny French Riviera and all the way to colorful Barcelona, our Europe travel packages are designed to feed your thirst for travel and discovery. Delight yourself with unparalleled views and incredible food, and surround yourself with wonderful people. Find here your France, Spain and Italy vacation package  or read about the best 10 day and  7 day France itineraries .

77 France, Italy and Spain tour packages with 949 reviews

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Enchanted Landscapes

Excellent experience. Good co-ordination and guides. Nice hotels. Would book a similar trip again.

Barcelona to Rome

Brilliant trip!.Because Intrepid do small groups we were able to get into the best locally run restaurants and really get to experience life like a local. We traveled by train and got to sit and chat with the locals (even picked up some top tips on where to go out) The tour leader was amazing, his knowledge of the 3 counties visited blew me away. He even booked us tickets to see Santana feat. Dave Matthews on the piano in a 2000yr old amphitheater in Nimes, something I would never had known about on my own. The tour was such a great mix of activities and free time. highly recommend.

France, Andorra and Catalonia

Rome to Lisbon: Coasts & Countryside

I did Rome to Madrid on a shoestring. It was an amazing tour! We visited a lot of places but still had enough time to chill and relax. Highlights were Lagos, Lisbon and Grenada. Alhumbra is a must see! Our tour guide was incredible! Lalo was AMAZING! He was so helpful and full of energy that you couldn't help but be excited as well. He is such an amazing human being, it was a privilege to meet and travel with him! He gave us amazing orientation walks and is quite the photographer. All in all - an amazing trip!!

• Train & Rail

Mediterranean Express: Rivieras & Railroads

Hey is anyone going on the Mediterranean Express trip on 8th September, looking to get to know my fellow travellers a little before I arrive! :)

London to Rome (Start London, 15 Days)

Great trip! Jessie and Jake were amazing and could not thank them enough for everything they did.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Mediterranean Highlights (13 Days)

Well organized. Great tour guide. Perhaps too many stops and places included. Optional tours sometimes not with money.

Mediterranean Flavors

Cosmos Tour Director Gabrielle and Driver Oscar are the best! Enjoyed seeing Spain, France and Italy and would recommend this tour. The only suggestion I would have would be to have less one night stays in hotels. Two nights is fine, but the one night stays got tiresome.

Western Europe Group Rail Tour (18-35)

The tour was really well organised and took all the stress out of all the transfers and finding trains etc. The hostels were all clean and helpful and any issues were sorted very quickly . My tour leader Tom (aka Liam Payne) was super helpful and knowledgeable about the areas (best places for food etc) . Great sense of humour too haha

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

London to Rome (Start Paris, 15 Days) (16 destinations)

Amsterdam to Rome

We had an amazing time. Saw alot and will definitely do another tour with you all. Thank you

Magical Barcelona, France & Italy -12 Days (Small Group)

Best of Spain & Southern France & Italy Lakes - 19 Days (Small Group)

Get Social: Central & Southern Europe Highlights

• €75 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Grand tour of Spain, France, Belgium and Italy in 2 Weeks - Covering Madrid, Barcelona, Paris, Bruges, Venice and Rome

What people love about france, italy and spain tours.

The tour is generally good. I wish though that more time are given to explore major places. Some places can be skipped already since there was nothing much to see.

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3 Weeks in Spain, France, and Italy

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When I decided to spend 20 days across these two iconic countries, it was more of a challenge. I’ve been to all three, but on separate trips . I really loved each of them, and the most I think of it, I can really see the reasons why these are the top destinations in Europe.

Now, not everyone has the time to take many trips. Trying to see as many countries as possible in a single trip is quite popular. So, I went and challenged myself to spend 3 weeks in Spain, France, and Italy and see if it was possible .

Spoiler alert: it can be done! But it’s not for everyone . It’s a tight-pack itinerary, but with careful planning and knowing that you can stick to that plan, you can do it.

All these destinations are actually popular ports for cruises. Perhaps you want to check out our compilation of 3-week cruises you can enjoy.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE GOING TO SPAIN, FRANCE, AND ITALY

Spain is the largest country in Southern Europe and shares a border with France in its northern region. It is also one of the most visited countries in Europe. Spain is known for its food, music, arts, literature, siesta, flamenco, and more.

France, on the other hand, is located primarily in Western Europe and sits just above Spain. France has numerous world-famous landmarks and food, such as baguette, cheese, and fine wine.

Last but not least is Italy, located near the Mediterranean Sea. It shares borders with a few countries, including France on the north and west. It also enclaves microstates of San Marino and Vatican City.

When is the best time to go

The best time to visit Spain, France, and Italy is generally during the shoulder seasons of April to June and September to October . You’ll enjoy pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

The peak tourist season is in the summer months, July and August when the weather is hottest and the places are most crowded. December is also a busy season for these three destinations. During these months, it gets really expensive due to the high demand.

Rainy seasons vary : Spain and Italy’s wetter months are usually October to December, while France’s northern parts see more rain from November to January.

Are 3 weeks enough for Spain, France, and Italy

As I mentioned before, it’s possible but will require careful planning. Consider visiting 3 cities and travel by air most of the time if each destination is more than 4 hours of driving, bus, or train ride.

You can also be very strategic in choosing the cities. For example, if you include Paris, you can take a day trip to Dunkirk and Calais.

If you choose Marseille, you can travel to Nice and explore Southern France more as a day trip. The same goes for Seville and Malaga in Southern Spain; it allows you to see more cities since these are in the centre of major attractions.

So, look at the map and pick which cities are well-located.

What to pack

If you’re visiting during the summer season, packing comfortable and breathable clothing is highly recommended. Comfortable walking shoes to sandals are needed for visiting Europe .

On the other hand, for those who plan to come during the winter or fall season, make sure you bring warm clothes. Aim for layering rather than a bulky winter jacket. We have a c ompilation of packing lists for a 3-week trip depending on the season.

How to get around

This all depends on your destination. France and Italy both have amazing train systems and are quite affordable, too. Spain, on the other hand, has a rail network as well but not as intensive.

I really recommend you consider travelling by air to save you time . But first, check if points A to B can be done by bus or train (somewhere around 4 hours).

All these three destinations can be travelled by car rental too. However, the cars are usually in manual transmission. By bus will be the most affordable option, but also the slowest.

Language and currency

The official language of France is French . Most locals who work in the hospitality industry can speak English, but outside that, it can be a challenge. This is because French people don’t enjoy speaking English.

The opposite can be said about Spain. The official language there is Spanish, but many locals enjoy speaking English . However, in smaller towns and rural areas, English may be less commonly spoken.

Italy can be a hit-and-miss, where the official language is Italian . In my experience, lots of young people are happy to speak English with foreigners, but the older generation might ignore you.

Make sure to learn some basic words and carry a translation app with you, especially for France. Learning some basic words will also help you with navigation, and it’s a great way to show the locals respect and appreciation for their culture.

France, Spain, and Italy use the Euro (€) as the main currency . Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in France, Spain, and Italy , especially in cities and tourist areas. However, cash is still preferred for small transactions, in local markets, and in rural areas. It’s wise to carry some cash for such instances.

Average travel cost for 3 weeks in Spain, France, and Italy

This can really vary a lot, but the season is what affects the cost of a vacation in these three destinations. France is the most costly, followed by Italy, making Spain the most affordable on this list.

However, during the peak season (summer and Christmas), the prices gets nearly double when it comes to accommodation, transportation, and tours.

On average, you can plan €150 a day, so for 3 weeks, that will cost you around €3,000 . This allows you to book a private room, sign up for mid-range tours, use trains or even planes to get from one city to another and eat out in a decent restaurant.

For a budget trip, €90 can do it (€1,800 total) . You will be staying in a dorm room in a hostel, signing up for free tours (tip-based), taking buses, and visiting convenience stores or supermarkets for meals.

For those looking for luxury experiences such as honeymooners or anniversary celebrations, €350 a day per person or around €7,500 for three weeks is realistic. With this budget, you can sleep in 4 or 5-star hotels, take premium tours, get around with private vehicles, and enjoy fine dining.

If you’re visiting during the busy season, make sure to book your accommodation at least 6 months in advance to have plenty of choices.

Spain, France, and Italy are all located in Europe, are members of the EU, and are part of the Schengen Area. This means that they all implement the same visa.

If you hold a passport from the UK, New Zealand, Canada, Australia, the US, some parts of Latin America, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, South Korea, and some parts of the Gulf country – you can travel to Spain, France, and Italy without a visa for up to 90 days (in total, not 90 days in each country).

You can book a flight to Paris, then fly out of Barcelona back to your home country, for example. You don’t need to fly into and fly out of the same city.

For the rest of the world, you must apply for a Schengen visa at the nearest Spanish, Italian, or French embassy/consulate. You must send in your application to the embassy of which country you plan to enter first.

For example, if you plan to start your trip in Italy, you must obtain a visa from the Italian Embassy. EU passport holders have freedom of movement in these destinations.

Other travel tips

I personally always book the accommodation first because these are the ones that get booked up fast. At the time of writing this, I have a plan to go to Europe in the summer, which is 9 months away. But I also booked my hotel.

If I change my mind, I can cancel those booking since the site I used have free cancellation. This is one of the reasons I love using the following services.

TRIP COST CALCULATOR

Trip cost calculator, pinned map of must-see places in spain, france, and italy.

Click the enlarge button on the top right corner. Credit: map data: Google

3 WEEKS IN SPAIN, FRANCE, AND ITALY ITINERARY

If you ask me which of these countries is my favourite, I honestly won’t be able to answer you because each of them offers a unique experience, fantastic dishes, and extraordinary history.

There are four travel itineraries here covering Spain, France, and Italy , offering various themes for each. The first itinerary is great if it’s your first time visiting these destinations.

The second itinerary suits those who love the beach and want to spend their vacation doing water activities and booking boat tours.

The third itinerary is perfect for people who want a mix of popular sites and also go off-the-trail for a little bit and explore quieter areas.

Finally, the fourth itinerary is awesome if you love hiking and want to explore these three countries by trekking and enjoying the outdoors.

After reading through the itineraries, you will see a list of things to do and activities that you can plan in each city, plus tips on tours that you can book. There’s also a list of recommended accommodations depending on your budget.

And lastly, you will see a tasty compilation of must-try dishes . You must try out local dishes from Spain, France, and Italy and see which ones you like the best.

Country-specific Itineraries

If you decide that you prefer to visit one country only, perhaps the following itineraries can help you with that:

• 3 weeks in France itinerary
• 3 weeks in Italy itinerary
• 3 weeks in Spain itinerary
• 3 weeks in Portugal and Spain itinerary
• 3 weeks in France and Spain itinerary
• 3 weeks in Southern Europe itineraries
• 3 weeks in Europe itineraries
• 3 weeks in Western Europe
• 3 weeks in Eastern Europe
• 3 weeks in Central Europe
• 3 weeks in Scandinavia

Itinerary #1: The Capital/Historical and Cultural (Madrid, Paris, Rome)

This itinerary is suitable for first-timers who are history buffs and for those who love the art scene . The first stop is Madrid , which is Spain’s capital. Aside from that, UNESCO also declares Madrid as a world heritage site.

The next stop is Paris (France), known for fashion, food, nightlife, art, and history. Aside from the Eiffel Tower, there are still tons of world-famous landmarks, and of course, the Parisian food is top-notch.

The last stop is Rome (Italy), a must-visit for its numerous ancient ruins, including the oldest building in the world and one of the seven wonders of the world.

Aside from that, the coffee culture in Rome is top-notch as they mastered the art of aperitif, a pre-dinner ritual involving sipping bitter concoctions. The sequence of the locations can be interchanged depending on where you’ll travel from.

Madrid, Spain for 7 days

Madrid is the capital and the most populous city of Spain . Your Spain travel itinerary would not be complete if you didn’t go to Madrid because this city has so much to offer. Not only is it a haven for art enthusiasts, but it is brimming with history and culture.

In fact, the city managed to preserve most of its historical sites , such as the Royal Palace of Madrid, Royal Theater, Plaza Mayor, and more. It has tons of museums as well. You seriously wouldn’t run out of places to visit here in 7 days.

For football enthusiasts , it is home to two of the most famous football clubs, Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid. Other places to visit include the Temple of Debod, Circulo de Bellas Artes, Barrio de Latina, Palacio de Cristal, and more.

Paris, France for 7 days

Just like Madrid, Paris is also both the capital and most populous city in France . It has been one of the world’s major centres in culture, fashion, gastronomy, commerce, finance, and diplomacy.

Paris is famous for The Eiffel Tower , Louvre, Champs Elysees, Notre Dame Cathedral, Montmartre, and Seine River. If you’re interested in learning more about WW2, there are tons of day trips to Calais and Dunkirk.

Art enthusiasts will also love Paris because it is the art capital of France . It is also included in the “Big Four” fashion capitals of the world, celebrating fashion week with participants from various high-end clothing brands.

You can get to Paris from Madrid by getting on a direct flight . It takes around 2 hours and costs about $50 or higher depending on the season.

Rome, Italy for 7 days

Rome is located in the central-western portion of the Italian Peninsula. It is the 14th most visited country in the world in 2019. UNESCO lists its historic centre as a World Heritage site , and Vatican City (the smallest country) can be found here. Rome is brimming with a history spanning 28 centuries.

A couple of must-visit locations here include the world-famous Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, Vatican Museum, St. Peter’s Basilica, Sistine Chapel, and more.

For those who are fond of museums, you can visit Borghese Gallery and Museum, Capitoline Museums, and Rome National Museums.

To reach Rome from Paris, you can book a non-stop 2-hour flight . It’s around $100 or even more during busy season.

Itinerary #2: Beach Trail (Barcelona/Canary Islands, Nice/Marseille, Naples)

The second itinerary for your 20 days in Spain, France, and Italy is focused on beach trails and for those who want to see the Mediterranean Sea . The first stop is either in Barcelona or the Canary Islands (both are part of Spain).

For your first stop, choose between Barcelona and the Canary Islands (Spain ). You can go to Barcelona to experience beach life and see unique art pieces, architecture, and vibrant cultural scenes.

The Canary Islands, on the other hand , has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, tons of wildlife, and even a world heritage city for history buffs.

After Spain, we’re heading to France. You can choose between Nice and Marseille. You can do both since they’re not that far from one another.

Nice is an amazing spot in the French Riviera , which possibly has the best market in France. The place is not only filled with beaches, but it also is rich in history, heritage, architecture, and even festivities. In fact, it is home to the world’s first jazz festival and the world’s first and largest carnival.

On the other hand, Marseille is home to Europe’s largest port and a melting pot of European and African cultures, so it has some of the coolest and edgiest cultural spaces.

The last stop is Naples (Italy), which has 3,000 years’ worth of preserved culture. This is where you’ll find the famous areas of Capri, Amalfi Coast, and Sorrento. Aside from beaches, you can hike to a Roman Sauna in the mountains, take history tours, and go on boat tours.

Barcelona or the Canary Islands, Spain for 7 days

Both Barcelona and the Canary Islands have beaches . However, one of their main differences is that Barcelona is busier and is located in mainland Europe.

The Canary Islands is located in the Western area of Africa , which means you need to take a short flight from Europe mainland. There are fewer people, and the overall vibe is more laid-back here.

Barcelona, however, is more suitable for you if, aside from beaches, you’re also looking to do other activities or watch one of the most famous football clubs, FC Barcelona, where the likes of Messi used to play.

Aside from that, it is also a haven for architecture and art enthusiasts as it is filled with buildings designed by world-renowned Gaudi.

A couple of those are Casa Battlo, Palau Guelli, and, of course, Sagrada Familia. Other places to visit include Mount Tibidabo, the Picasso Museum, the National Art Museum of Catalonia, and more.

The Canary Islands have pleasant, sunny weather all year round, which is fitting for people who love to sunbathe and do beach-related activities.

The islands also have tons of unique landscapes , including sub-tropical forests in Garajonay Natural Park, desert landscapes by the sea in Dunas de Corralejo, and nature reserves in Fuerteventura, among others.

Nice and Marseille, France for 7 days

Nice is a city in the prefecture of the Alpes-Maritimes department in France . Nice is famous for its breathtaking landscape, cuisine, stunning architecture, and rich history.

It has a wonderful Mediterranean climate, with more than 300 days of sunshine per year. Some of the must-see attractions here are The Promenade des Anglais, Old Town, Castle Hill Park, and Castel Beach. You can even take a day trip to Cannes or Monaco from here.

Marseille is the prefecture of the French Department of Bouches du Rhone . It is also the capital of the Provence-Alpes-Cote d’Azur region. Marseille is known for its vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and rich history. It is one of the most dynamic cities in France, as it has been home to a diverse range of cultures.

Some of the must-visit places here are the Basilica of Notre Dame of la Garde, Chateau d’Ilf, Palais Longchamp, Fort Saint-Jean, and more. You can rent a car once you’re in these places as the locations are only 2 hours away from each other.

From Barcelona to Nice , there are limited non-stop flight, which is only an hour and 15 minutes. A flight with a connection transits in Bordeaux or Paris, making the flight around 3 hours and 15 minutes. The ticket costs between $30 to $50.

From Barcelona to Marseille , you can still take a flight that is direct. There are more flights with transit, which connect either in Paris, Madrid, or Lisbon. The ticket will cost between $100 to $150 per person.

From Canary Islands (Gran Canaria) to Marseille or to Nice , there’s no direct flight; most of them connect in Barcelona or Madrid and take around 6 to 7 hours, costing $70 to $120.

Naples, Italy for 6 days

Last but definitely not least, the location for the second itinerary for 3 weeks in Spain, France, and Italy. The final region is Naples, which is the regional capital of Campania and the third largest city in Italy.

Naples is famous for being the birthplace of Pizz a, a stunning opera house, a hub for history buffs, and its stunning churches. I want to highlight a couple of locations here in Naples, one of which is Sorrento.

It is a town overlooking the Bay of Naples, and aside from its ethereal view, it is also famous for its lacework, ceramics, and woodwork shops. You can also try limoncello, tart, and tangy desserts here.

Next is the Amalfi Coast, a stretch of coastline in Southern Italy overlooking the Gulf of Salerno and the Tyrrhenian Sea. It is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site and has been a famous jet set spot for upper-class Europeans since the 18th century.

Lastly is the island of Capri , located in the Tyrrhenian Sea of the Sorrento Peninsula. Just like Amal Coast, Capri is also famous for jet setters. This place is filled with exquisite villas, immaculately manicured gardens, and stunning natural vistas.

You can reach Naples from Nice by air . But there are no direct flights; most connect in Barcelona, Madrid, or Paris. And the ticket prices are around $70 to $100.

Itinerary #3: Off-the-Trail (Florence, Bologna, Nantes, Seville)

The third itinerary is suitable for people who want to avoid the touristy crowd for a little bit but not miss out on the top sites each country has to offer.

The first stop is Florence (Italy) , which is an art lover’s paradise as it has some of the world’s most famous museums and galleries. The streets themselves are picturesque and are best travelled on foot as well.

The next destination is Bologna (Italy) , which offers its visitors a unique blend of world-class gastronomy and history. In fact, it is home to the oldest university in the Western world.

Nantes (France) is also filled with historical sites, particularly in the Bouffay District . Another reason why it is a must-visit is because of its must-try local dishes, including Crepes Bretonnes, Filet de Sandre au Beurre Blanc, Le Canard Nantais, and more.

The last stop is Seville (Spain), which is home to world-renowned landmarks such as Alcazar and the Cathedral of Sevilla, which is the third largest cathedral. Aside from that, it is also the cradle of flamenco, Spain’s most popular dance.

Florence, Italy for 5 days

Florence is the capital and the most populated city in the Tuscany region. It was a centre of medieval European trade and one of the wealthiest cities of that era. UNESCO declared it a world heritage site in 1982.

It is known for Renaissance art, culture, monuments, and architecture . You should definitely not skip Florence on your trip because it has one of the most famous art galleries in the world, with art pieces created by Da Vinci, Raphael, Michelangelo, and Titian, to name a few.

Some of the must-visit tourist attractions in Florence are Battistero di San Giovani, Uffizi Palace and Gallery, San Lorenzo and Michaelangelo’s Medici Tombs, Palazzo Vecchio, and more.

It also offers interesting day trips, including one of the seven wonders of the world, the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

Bologna, Italy for 3 days

Bologna is the capital of the metropolitan city and Emilia-Romagna region. It is the seventh most populous city in Italy. Bologna is known as the Fat City for its rich cuisine and as the food capital of Italy .

It is also called as the Red City for its red-tiled rooftops . Bologna is filled with historical churches, museums, medieval squares, and gardens.

A couple of top-rated attractions here are Piazza Maggiore and Piazza del Nettuno, San Petronio, Archiginnasio Anatomical Theater, Museo Civico Archeologico, and the leaning towers of Torre Garisenda and Torre Degli Asinelli, among others.

There are a few ways to get Bologna from Florence. The cheapest is by bus, which will take around two hours. The train is a little faster, around 40 minutes and also more comfortable. If you’re renting a car, the drive is about 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Nantes, France for 6 days

Nantes is a city in the Loire-Atlantique region of France . It is the sixth largest city in France. It is an ideal destination for those who want to get away from the usual hustle and bustle of major tourist spots.

But don’t get me wrong, there are still tons of things to see in Nantes. Machines of the Isle, for instance, is a famous amusement park that one must not miss out on, especially if you come with family.

Other locations include Jardin des Plantes de Nantes, Chateau Country, where you can see the Loire Valley and tons of mesmerizing castles, HAB Galerie, Musee des Beaux-Arts de Nantes, and more.

It offers beach day trips as well . For those who love football, this city also houses one of France’s most successful football leagues, FC Nantes.

Unfortunately, there are no direct flights from Bologna to Nantes . There are 1-stop flight, which transits to Madrid, Paris, or Amsterdam. It usually costs $150. If you can travel down to Rome, there are a bit more affordable flights, but they still require a connection.

Seville, Spain for 6 days

Seville is the capital and largest city of Andalusia . Its old town contains a UNESCO World Heritage Site comprising three buildings: the General Archive of the Indies, the Cathedral, and the Alcazar Palace Complex.

Seville is one of Spain’s most popular destinations and is famous for its Christian, Jewish, and Moorish architecture and some of t he most delicious tapas known to mankind . It also is home to popular traditions such as bullfighting and flamenco.

A couple of places to visit in Seville include Alcazar Palace, Christopher Columbus’ Tomb, Plaza de Espana, Mercado de Triana, and more.

There are also numerous things to do here, such as availing a hop-on-hop-off bus tour, seeing a flamenco show, climbing Metropol Parasol, trying out the tapas at Seville’s oldest bar, Cordoba day trip, and more.

You can fly to Seville from Nantes and connect in Barcelona or Madrid . The ticket price is $70 to $150. You can also fly to Malaga and then travel by land to Seville.

Itinerary #4: Hiking Trail (Barcelona/Tenerife, Lyon, Catania)

Last but definitely not least, in 3 weeks in Spain, France, and Italy, the itinerary consists of places filled with hiking trails – perfect for active people and those who love the outdoors.

Barcelona (Spain) is actually usually the hikers’ starting point as it is near mountainous areas, and most of these are quick hikes.

It also has numerous day trips to other hiking locations such as Costa Brava, Montserrat, Montseny, and more. Tenerife (Canary Islands, Spain) is a hiker’s paradise, as you’ll find the highest point in Spain here. The scenery includes pine forests, volcanic landscapes, and green valleys.

Lyon (France) is also filled with hiking paths that are suitable for all levels. In fact, there are no less than 150 countryside walks to be discovered in Rhone, both for regular and occasional walkers.

Last is Catania (Italy), or the entirety of Sicily island , which offers tons of hiking opportunities. Aside from Mount Etna, there’s also the village of Militello, surrounded by natural waterfalls, and the Sartorius Mountains, suitable for all fitness levels.

Barcelona or Tenerife, Spain for 6 days

You must choose between Barcelona and Tenerife. Both are great hiking destinations . The main difference is that Barcelona is in mainland Europe, while Tenerife is an island in the Canary region. Your next destination will d epend on your preference for hiking trail difficulties .

Barcelona is located on the Northeastern coast of Spain, near the border with France. It is the capital and the largest city of Catalonia and the second most populous municipality of Spain.

Tenerife, on the other hand, is the largest and most populous island of the Canary Islands. It is known for its world-class hiking trails because of its volcanic landscapes , while the trails in Barcelona are far in between.

That’s why Tenerife is better if you want to be completely surrounded by nature and do other nature-related activities such as snorkelling, scuba diving, and the like.

You might prefer to hike in Barcelona if you want a balanced city vibe with preserved historical structures and nature. Some of the hiking trails in Barcelona are Sant Jeroni Summit Loop, Mount Tibidabo, Park Guell, and La Rambla, among others.

Lyon, France for 8 days

Lyon is the third largest city in France, Located at the confluence of the rivers Saone and Rhone. It is loved as France’s gastronomy capital, with numerous Michelin-starred restaurants and a couple of themed cafes littered around the city.

It is perfect because you will need some nourishment after a couple of hours of hiking. Yes, Lyon also has a couple of hiking trails for adventurers at heart.

In fact, a couple of places that comes to mind are Parc Naturel regional du Morvan, Parc Naturel Régional Livradois-Forez, and Parc Naturel Régional des Monts d’Ardèche, which is a UNESCO global geopark

If you had your fill of hiking during your stay here, you can also have a day trip to Geneva (Switzerland).

You can get to Lyon from Barcelona by a non-stop plane , which takes 1 hour and 30 minutes and costs $30. From Tenerife to Lyon requires transit in Madrid or Lisbon , costing a lot more.

Catania/Sicily, Italy for 6 days

Although Catania is the logistical, commercial, and industrial centre of Sicily, i t also has tons of natural resources, such as mountains and beaches , perfect for hiking and other outdoor activities, but also some mind and body events. There are yoga retreats in Sicily that you can book if you’re interested in them.

Mount Etna is one of those must-hike locations . Other hiking trails are Schiena dell’Asino, Calanna Valley, Monte Zoccolaro, and more. It is an active volcano that attracts many visitors whenever it spills out lava, which is quite often.

It is the perfect place to end your trip because you can also enjoy the beaches there . This includes The Playa of Catania, Torre Pozillo Beach, Praiola Beach, Mulino Beach, and Santa Maria la Scala, among others.

There are still other tourist spots aside from hiking trails and beaches like Monastero dei Benedettini, Villa Bellini Gardens, Castelo Ursino, and Palazzo Biscari, among others.

There are flights from Lyon to Sicily, but most of them require a connection or two and are a bit pricey . If you can travel back to Paris, Nice, or even to Geneva (Switzerland), you can find better flights toward Sicily.

THINGS TO DO

After giving you some ideas on cities you can include in your itinerary for spending 3 weeks in Spain, France, and Italy, I want to share with you a list of things you can do in each place. These activities can also help you decide if the destinations you chose are suitable for you.

Bologna, Italy

• Explore the city centre – do a walking tour or a guided e-bike tour
• Piazza Maggiore
• Torre degli Asinelli – get an entrance ticket and food tasting option
• Fountain of Neptune
• Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca
• Basilica di San Petronio
• Basilica of San Domenico
• Ferrari Lamborghini – visit the factory and museums
• Palazzo d’Accursio
• Pinacoteca Nazionale
• Certosa di Bologna
• It’s the food capital; don’t miss food tours such as home cooking class or self-guided food tasting or visit a Bologna food factory or do a walking food tour or a classic food tour with a local or Emilia Romagna food tour

Florence, Italy

• Uffizi Gallery – buy an affordable skip-the-line tour in advance
• Ponte Vecchio
• Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
• Pallazo Vecchio
• David of Michaelangelo
• Pitti Palace
• Basilica of Santa Croce
• Accademia Gallery and Brunelleschi Dome
• Piazzale Michaelangelo
• Chianti Wineries – vineyard and wine tasting tour
• Cinque Terre hike from Florence
• Join a handmade pasta and dessert cooking class
• Forteza da Basso
• Travel from Florence to Pisa for the day including a stop at Siena and San Gimignano with lunch
• Day trip to Tuscany with Chianti Winery

Rome, Italy

• Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill – buy a combo ticket
• Vatican City, Vatican Museums (open from 8:30 am to 6:30 pm) and Sistine Chapel are open 24 hours – get yourself a skip-the-line ticket
• St. Peter’s Basilica is open every day from 7 am to 6 pm but from April through September, it is open until 7 pm – join a St. Peter’s Basilica to Underground Grotto tour
• Castle Saint Angelo or Mausoleum of Hadrian
• Spanish Steps
• Trevi Fountain
• Rome food tour
• Vatican and Rome City Pass with free use of transportation

Naples, Italy

• Naples hop-on hop-off bus tour
• Naples National Archaeological Museum
• Climbing Mount Vesuvius , famously caused the burial of Pompeii and Herculaneum. The hike towards the crater will only take 20-30 minutes. It opens at 9 am, but the closing hours vary, depending on the month.
• Veiled Christ – located in Sansevero Chapel Museum
• Ruins of Pompeii – visit the sites, including the Casa del Fauno, the Temple of Apollo, the Amphitheater, and the Temple of Jupiter – book a combo tour
• Visit Catacombe di San Gennaro – open from 9:30 am to 5 pm
• Herculaneum – Some interesting sights include the House of Argus and the Villa of Papyri. It is open from 9:30 am to 7:30 pm, but the last admission is at 6 pm.
• Sorrento, Positano, and Amalfi full-day tour
• Castel dell Ovo is a sea-bound castle that is open from 9:30 am to 7:30 pm
• Boat Tour of Capri and Naples coastline or Capri and Blue Grotto
• Naples Underground tour
• Piazza del Plebiscito
• Bourbon Tunnel tour
• Castel Sant’Elmo
• Naples food tour or an authentic pizza-making workshop

Sicily, Italy

• Mount Etna is considered a UNESCO heritage site. It is accessible from 9 am to 4:15 pm during summer and from 9 am to 3:45 pm during winter
• Mount Etna buggy tour
• Zingaro Natural Reserve is open from 7 am to 7:30 pm
• Taormina – Greco Teatro, Castelmola, and Isola Bela
• Selinunte Archaeological Park is the largest in Europe. Tours last from 40 minutes to 4 hours, depending on the inclusions of the tour package you chose. It is open from 9 am to 4:30 pm
• No Mafia walking tour
• Cala Gadir is perfect for divers as the sea is always evident. It is open from 9 am to 7 pm
• Palermo food tour
• Catania City tour

Lyon, France

• Parc de la Tete d’Or
• La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourviere
• Cathedrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste
• Rhone Valley – book a wine tasting tour
• Place Bellecour
• Musee des Confluences – get your ticket in advance
• Teatro Galo-Romano
• Vieux Lyon – join a food tour or an Old Town walking food tour
• Lake Geneva, Switzerland – 2 hours from Lyon
• Musee Cinema et Miniature
• Saone River – get on a cruise and visit UNESCO sites or a cruise with a dinner
• Musee de l’imprimerir et de la
• Musée des Arts de la Marionnette
• Fresqye des Lyonnais
• Bartholdi Fountain
• Lyon Botanical Garden

Marseille, France

• Mucem – Museum of Civilizations of Europe, you can skip the line and save some time
• Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde
• Old Port of Marseille
• Chateau d’lf
• Cathedrale La Major
• Massif des Calanques – have fun on a 5-hour cruise or explore with an e-bike
• Palais Longchamp
• Parc National des Calanques – sign up for a kayak tour
• Calanque de la creme
• Do a day trip to Provence – best if you have max of 7 people in your group or book a wine tour to Provence

Nice, France

• Promenade des Anglais
• Marc Chagall National Museum
• Musee Matisse
• Villefranche Bay – enjoy a 1-hour cruise or have fun snorkelling
• Castle of Nice
• Modern and Contemporary Art
• Foundation Maeght
• Field of Lavender and Gorges of Verdon – best if visiting from spring to summer, then you must book a tour of the Lavender fields
• Cathedrale Saint-Nicolas de Nice
• Parc Phoenix
• Cimiez Monastery
• Basilique Notre-Dame de l’Assomption
• Opera de Nice

Paris, France

• Eiffel Tower – you can skip the line and hike up the stairs or take the elevator
• Notre-Dame Cathedral
• Louvre Museum – get a skip-the-line ticket without a guide or with a live guide
• Sacre-Coeur
• Arc de Triomphe – scale the rooftop
• Pompidou Centre
• Seine River Cruise – you can book a 1-hour cruise or a cruise with a yummy gourmet dinner
• Champs-Elysees
• Musee de Montmartre
• Moulin Rouge Cabaret Show – enjoy with champagne or a dinner
• Musee d’Orsay
• Luxembourg Gardens
• Catacombs of Paris – explore with an audio guide
• Sainte-Chapelle
• Grand Palais
• Versailles – join a guided tour
• Tuileries Garden
• Shakespeare and Company

Barcelona, Spain

• Get a public transport pass – look at the price
• Mount Tibidabo
• Barceloneta Beach
• Basilica de la Sagrada Familia – skip the online and explore with an audio guide or combine with Parc Guell
• Barcelona Aquarium – suitable for young children, buy your ticket in advance
• Palau de la Musica Catalana
• Park Güell- get your ticket in advance , there’s a limit per day ticket sold for Parc Guell
• Casa Batllo
• Enjoy tapas and wine – book a walking tour
• Bogatell Beach/Playa de Bogatell
• Magic Fountain of Montjuic – ride a round-trip cable car
• Museo Picasso de Barcelona
• Explore Montserrate – join a half-day tour
• Trio-day trip and cover Spain, France, and Andorra – check the itinerary
• Walk around Barri Gotic
• Go kayaking and snorkelling in Costa Brava – book an affordable tour

Gran Canaria, Spain

• Pico de las Nieves
• Reserva Natural Especial de las dunas de Maspalomas
• Go scuba diving – book a tour
• Playa Puerto Rico
• Drive an ATV – enjoy a tour
• Roque Nublo
• Enjoy a submarine tour – read the reviews
• Palmitos Park
• Sign up for a morning cruise – check the price

Madrid, Spain

• Royal Palace – get your fast-access ticket
• Plaza Mayor
• Museo Nacional del Prado – purchase your ticket in advance
• Parque Natural de Peñalara and Sierra de Guadarrama National Park
• Visit Real Madrid’s Stadium (Santiago Bernabéu Stadium) – join a Bernabeu Stadium tour
• Buen Retiro Park and the Crystal Palace
• Puerta del Sol
• Fuente de Cibeles and Gran Via
• Temple of Debod
• Basilica de San Francisco el Grande
• Enjoy wine and tapas tasting – join a group tour
• Puerta de Alcala
• Watch a flamenco show with dinner
• National Museum of Romanticism
• Day trip to Avila and Segovia and visit historical sites or go to Toledo with a local guide

Seville, Spain

• Royal Alcazar of Seville
• Catedral de Seville
• Punta Umbria Beach
• Cascadas del Hueznar
• Real Alcazar
• Parque de Maria Luisa and Plaza de Espana
• Barrio de Santa Cruz
• Museo del Baile Flamenco
• Real Maestranza de Caballeria de Sevilla
• Palacio de la Condesa de Lebrija
• Metropol Parasol
• Torro del Oro

Tenerife, Spain

• Lago Martianez
• Playa de Las Teresitas
• Mount Teide National Park
• Siam Water Park – get your tickets
• Whale and dolphin watching
• Museum of Science and the Cosmos
• Fuerteventura – do a 4×4 tour
• Cueva del Viento
• Masca Village
• Tabaiba Shipwreck/Pecio de Tabaiba
• Bajamar Natural Pools/Piscina Natural de Bajamar Teneriffa
• Sign up for a whale and dolphin watching tour or do a kayak tour while looking for dolphins and turtles

WHERE TO STAY

To make it a bit easier, I also included a list of accommodations for the destinations listed on this 3 weeks in Spain, France, and Italy itinerary. These are arranged by city and also according to your budget.

• Affordable: Casa Isolani Pizza Maggiore or Denise B&B
• Mid-range: Casa Isolani or A San Lazzaro Rooms
• Luxury: Art Hotel Commercianti or Hotel Corona d’Oro or NH Bologna De La Gare or Starhotels Excelsoir
• Mid-range: hu Firenze Camping in Town or B&B Home
• Luxury: Hotel De La Ville or Hotel della Signoria
• Affordable: Residenza Laterano or Affittacamere de Barby
• Mid-range: Villa Paganini or Walker Guest House
• Luxury: Dimora ai Fori or Tree Charme Parliament Boutique
• Affordable: Los Mochileros Hostel or Naples Experience Hostel
• Mid-range: B&B Vesu or Raggio di Sole 2
• Luxury: Macchiato Suites or Relais della Porta
• Affordable: Appartamento Aretusa or B&B Great Sicily
• Mid-range: San Giorgio Palace or Villa Giardinata
• Luxury: Casa Nostra Boutique or Domia Boutique
• Affordable: Alter’hostel or Away Hostel & Coffee Shop
• Mid-range: Bayard Bellecour or Hotel Edmon W Lyong Part-Dieu
• Luxury: Hotel Le Roosevelt or Cour des Loges Lyon
• Affordable: Toyoko INN or Montempo Marseille Centre Dome
• Mid-range: Best Western Hotel or Maison Juste
• Luxury: La Residence Du Vieux Port or Hotel Belle-Vue Vieux-Port
• Affordable: Villa Saint Exupery Beach Hostel or Hostel Ozz Nice
• Mid-range: Hotel Byakko Nice or Villa Berlioz or Centrum Nice
• Luxury: Hotel de France by AMMI or Hotel La Villa Nice Victor Hugo or Hotel Florence Nice
• Affordable: Hotel des Belges or City Inn Paris
• Mid-range: B&B Hotel Paris or Au Pacific Hotel
• Luxury: Pullman Paris or citizenM Paris or Hotel 31 or Hotel Vic Eiffel or Moris Grands or XO Hotel
• Affordable: Unite Hostel or Factory Hostel
• Mid-range: Sixties Ramblas or Violeta Boutique
• Luxury: Vincci Gala or Ohla Barcelona or ME Barcelona
• Affordable: La Hoyilla Hostel or Mountain Hostel Finca La Isa
• Mid-range: La Cason Canaria or Hotel Rural Hacien del Buen Suceso
• Luxury: Hotel the Lumm or Hotel Cordial or Wavia Hotel (adults only)
• Affordable: Olblanc Plaza de Espana or Hostal Arrate
• Mid-range: II Castilla Madrid or Hotel Liabeny
• Luxury: Pestana CR7 Gran via Madrid or Palacio de Atocha
• Affordable: Hostel A2C or Pension Javier
• Mid-range: Hotel Casona de San Andreas or Cool Sevilla Hotel
• Luxury: Hotel Rey Alfonos X or Hotel Dona Maria
• Affordable: Albergue San Jose de Los Llanos or Hotel Las Canadas
• Mid-range: Hotel Adonis Plaza or Alua Tenerife
• Luxury: Hotel Hacienda del Conde or Gran Melia Palacio de Isora Resort & Spa

MUST-TRY DISHES AND DESSERTS FROM EACH COUNTRY

European cuisine is easily my favourite in the Each country has so much to offer; from savoury to sweet food, it’s all so satisfying. When it comes to dessert, France has my heart, while Italy gets me when it comes to savoury food. And, of course, Spain is my go-to for seafood dishes.

Here’s a quick list of traditional and authentic food you can try during your visit. Don’t forget to at least check out 3-4 items (or more!) from this list and see which ones you like the most.

• Bouillabaisse
• Ratatouille
• Boeuf Bourguignon
• Creme Brulee
• Tarte Tatin
• Pizza Napoletana
• Risotto alla Milanese
• Panna Cotta
• Jamon Iberico
• Tortilla Espanola
• Churros con Chocolate
• Crema Catalana
• Tarta de Santiago

SUMMARY OF 3 WEEKS IN SPAIN, FRANCE, AND ITALY ITINERARY

Did you know that Spain is the second most-visited country worldwide? Very rightfully so, as it has so much to offer.

It is filled with aesthetic natural beauty, crystalline Mediterranean beaches, a favourable climate all year round, and well-preserved historical landmarks, while France is a perfect balance of history, art, culture, and food, as well as the snow-capped Alps.

And, of course, let’s not forget Italy, which is famous mainly for its contribution to the fashion scene, architecture, art, and literature.

To sum it up, this trip will be a feast not only for your eyes and will fill your stomach, but you’ll also enjoy learning about their history and culture, and adventure-seekers, activities that will definitely give you a rush.

3 weeks in Spain France and Italy sounds like a lot, and it is. But it’s not impossible. So get started on the planning and make the most of your holiday. I hope that you found these itineraries helpful.

SAVE THIS TRAVEL ITINERARY ON YOUR PINTEREST:

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Mediterranean Coastal Journey

About this tour.

Venture along the glittering Mediterranean coast on an immersive journey connecting the Spanish, French and Italian Rivieras. Taste your way along the Mediterranean coast sampling paella in Barcelona, flavorful Provençal cuisine in Marseille and traditional focaccia in Genoa. Enjoy the iconic must-sees like La Sagrada Familia and venture to gems off the beaten path, like the rolling hills of the Tuscan countryside. Take a step into the culture and meet the locals. From chameleonic Barcelona to sun-kissed Nice; from glamorous Monaco to the rolling hills of the Chianti countryside, find your dream Mediterranean journey.

Your Tour Includes

• 6 Handpicked Accommodations
• 4 Choice on Tour Options

Included Highlights

• La Sagrada Família
• Choices on Tour
• Costa Brava

Your Tour at a Glance

14 Breakfasts

Travel Style

Explorations

Customize Your Tour

Optional Excursions

Starting at $99.00

Activity Level

• Level This Tour

For specific details about this tour's activity level and other info to know before you book your trip, click here.

Extension Style

Travel styles, highlights and inclusions.

Must-See Inclusions:

Visit Antoni Gaudi’s final masterpiece, the awe-inspiring La Sagrada Familia.

Discover the historic, charming streets of Aix-en-Provence.

Explore the colorful cliffside villages of the Cinque Terre by local train.

Cultural Experiences:

Take in the Spanish coastline during a walk between the villages of Calella de Palafrugell and Llafranc.

Impact Moment: dine at a restaurant solidale (solidarity restaurant) in Marseille that uses its profits to give meals to the poor.

Set out through the rolling hills and olive groves of Tuscany in company of a truffle hunter and his truffle-sniffing dogs.

Culinary Inclusions:

Dine on traditional Catalan specialties in a 17th-century farmhouse transformed into a local restaurant.

Visit an ancient abbey turned winery for a tour of the cellars and a taste of their wine.

Discover the flavors of the Italian at a local restaurant renowned for its cheese-filled focaccia and home-made pesto sauce.

• Winery Visit
• Impact Moment
• Aix-en-Provence
• French Riviera
• Monaco-Montecarlo
• Cinque Terre
• Truffle Hunting
• Tuscan Villa Stay

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* With Insurance Purchased

• *No Hassle Refunds
• Traveling Well Safety
• No booking fee, *no change fees
• Top Rated Travel Protection

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Getting Prepared

Know before you go, travel tips, enhance your tour.

• Choice On Tour

Unique Experience

Cultural Experiences

Enhance Your Trip

During your stay in Barcelona, you’ll have the choice between 2 activities. Your first choice is a visit to Catalunya’s National Museum of Art, one of Spain’s largest museums, in company of a local guide. Your second choice is to hop on a cable car and ascend the Montjuïc Castle for bird-eye views over the bustling port.

During your stay in Marseille, you’ll have the choice between 2 activities. Your first choice is to delve into the area’s prehistoric past with a visit to the Cosquer Cave, an outstanding example of primitive rock art admirably replicated in the Villa Méditerranée museum. Your second choice is to hop on a local ferry and discover one of the city’s heritage trades during a visit to the museum of “Marseille” soap, which has been crafted in the area for over 600 years.

Explore Modernist Barcelona on a walking tour & “tapas” dinner. The Catalan Modernism, also called 'Catalan Art Nouveau,' was a movement in architecture, art, and literature that took place in Spain's Catalonia region, with Barcelona as the capital in the period from around 1885 to 1920. During your walking tour, visit 2 locally loved tapas bars and learn the unwritten rules of doing tapas like a local. Taste some of the city’s most beloved bites as you take in the vibrant atmosphere of the Eixample neighborhood.

Explore historic St. Paul de Vence, an artists’ haven situated atop a hill overlooking the beautiful countryside. Wander along the narrow lanes of this charming walled medieval village, soaking in its distinctive light, said to have inspired artists such as Matisse and poet Jacques Prévert. Continue to Grasse, the capital of French perfume. Here, discover the secrets of perfume making during a hands-on workshop led by an expert perfumer, affectionately referred to as Nez (Nose).

Accommodations

Hotel catalonia passeig de gracia, park hotel san jorge, nh collection marseille, hotel massena, nh collection genova marina.

Nights 10-12

Hotel Borgo di Cortefreda

Nights 13-14

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Home » Itineraries » 3 Week France, Italy & Spain

Italy, France & Spain Three Weeks Itinerary

Private tours, free refunds & rescheduling, customizable itineraries, explore italy, france & spain in 21 days.

Our tour planning specialists have designed this captivating three-week journey through the heart of Italy, France, and Spain for those who seek to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of European culture, history, and landscapes.

Our 21-day itinerary starts in the eternal city of Rome, traverses through Italy’s iconic cities, crosses into the scenic rivieras and lavender fields of France, culminates in the vibrant heritage of Spain, and ends in Madrid.

Destinations On Our 3 Weeks Italy, France, & Spain Itinerary

• Days 1-2: Rome
• Days 3-4: Florence & Pisa
• Day 5-6: Venice
• Day 7 & 8: Nice
• Day 9: Monaco
• Days 10: Provence (Aix-en-Provence)
• Days 11-12: Lyon & Beaujolais Wine Region
• Day 13-14: Paris
• Days 15-16: Barcelona
• Days 17-18: Valencia
• Days 19-20: Madrid
• Day 21: Toledo

Day 1: Rome's Ancient Heart

Beginning with collection at the airport with your private driver or pick up from your accommodation if you will already be in the Eternal City, we have crafted day one of our itinerary to be a journey through time as you explore the ancient wonders of Rome, where history is etched into every corner of the city.

Colosseum and Roman Forum

Your Roman adventure gets underway at the Colosseum, the emblem of Rome’s imperial might.

With your private guide, you will delve into the history of this iconic amphitheater, imagining the gladiatorial combats that once captivated audiences.

Continue to the Roman Forum, the political and social hub of the ancient city, where your guide will bring to life the ruins of temples, marketplaces, and government buildings.

Palatine Hill Tour

Ascend to Palatine Hill, the mythical birthplace of Rome.

Stroll through the ruins of imperial palaces and gardens with your guide narrating the legends of Romulus and Remus. The hill offers panoramic views of the Forum and the city, providing a majestic backdrop to your exploration.

Pantheon and Piazza Navona

Your guide will then take you to the Pantheon, a marvel of ancient engineering with its massive dome and oculus.

Then, wander to Piazza Navona, where the Baroque fountains and architecture are illuminated beautifully at dusk. Your guide will share the stories of the artists and architects who shaped this vibrant square.

Day 2: Vatican City's Artistic Legacy

Discover the artistic and spiritual treasures of Vatican City, home to some of the world’s most influential art and architecture.

Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel

On the second day of our itinerary, you meet your guide at the Vatican Museums, where they will lead you through rooms filled with priceless art collected by popes over centuries.

Highlights include the Raphael Rooms and, of course, the Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo’s ceiling frescoes and The Last Judgment await to leave you in awe.

Peter's Basilica

Continue to St. Peter’s Basilica, the largest church in Christendom. Marvel at the magnificent interior, including Michelangelo’s Pietà and Bernini’s towering baldachin over the papal altar.

Climb to the dome for a breathtaking view of Vatican City and beyond, with your guide explaining the basilica’s architectural wonders and historical significance.

Vatican Gardens

Day 2 culminates with a tranquil stroll through the Vatican Gardens.

This private tour offers a rare glimpse into the serene landscapes that popes have cultivated for centuries. Admire the fountains, sculptures, and carefully manicured lawns that make these gardens a peaceful haven in the heart of Vatican City, providing a perfect reflective end to your exploration of the Vatican’s artistic legacy.

Day 3: Florence - Cradle of the Renaissance

On day three, you have the option of making the transfer from Rome with a private driver and luxury vehicle in 3 hours, or your driver will deliver you to the train station for the 1.5-hour high-speed rail journey.

Prepare to delve into the artistic and architectural wonders of Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, where every street and building tells a story of creativity and splendor.

Uffizi Gallery Tour

Step into a world of high art and particularly renaissance masterpieces in the Uffizi Gallery, home to one of the most important art collections in the world.

With a private guide, navigate through halls adorned with works by masters like Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Da Vinci. The Birth of Venus and Primavera are just a few of the prestigious works that your guide will illuminate with insightful commentary.

Florence Cathedral and Brunelleschi's Dome

Visit the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, majestically perched atop Fourvière Hill.

This stunning basilica, a blend of Romanesque and Byzantine styles, offers breathtaking views of Lyon. Inside, marvel at the intricate mosaics and the ornate interior.

Ponte Vecchio and the Oltrarno

Alongside your guide, stroll to the Ponte Vecchio, the oldest bridge in Florence, renowned for its jewelry shops housed in medieval structures.

Cross into the Oltrarno district, where artisans still ply their centuries-old trades. Your guide will share stories of the bridge and introduce you to the local crafts that make this area unique.

Day 4: Day Trip to Pisa

Awake in Florence and join your private driver in the morning for the journey to Pisa, just over an hour away, nestled in the beautiful Tuscan landscapes.

Pisa, of course, is famous for its famous leaning tower and other architectural wonders that are rich in historical significance.

Leaning Tower and Piazza dei Miracoli Tour

Your day in Pisa begins at the iconic Leaning Tower, where you’ll learn about the tower’s history and the efforts to preserve its tilt.

The Piazza dei Miracoli, with its immaculate lawns, is home to the tower, the Cathedral, and the Baptistry. Your guide will delve into the art and architecture of these religious monuments, highlighting their role in Pisa’s spiritual and cultural life.

Pisa's Historical Center and Riverfront

Explore the historical heart of Pisa with your private guide, wandering through medieval streets to discover hidden gems like the Knights’ Square (Piazza dei Cavalieri) and the historic University of Pisa buildings.

Stroll along the Arno River, admiring the views and the beautiful mix of Gothic and Renaissance buildings that line its banks.

Visit to a Local Tuscan Vineyard

As the afternoon sun begins to set, visit a local vineyard in the Tuscan countryside near Pisa.

You will be joined by local specialists, who will teach you about the winemaking process and give you a tasting session of regional wines. This will offer a relaxing end to your day trip and a taste of Tuscany’s renowned viticulture.

Rejoin your driver for the private transfer back to Florence.

Day 5: Arrival in Venice and Gondola Ride

Arrive in the magical city of Venice, where history flows through the canals and art adorns every corner.

There are 2 ways to get here from Florence. Option 1 is a private transfer with our luxury vehicle, which takes 3 hours, or you can take the high-speed rail link, which takes just over 2 hours.

Mark's Basilica and Doge's Palace

Upon arrival in Venice, your tour begins with an exclusive guided experience of St. Mark’s Basilica, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture.

Gaze upon the golden mosaics and the Pala d’Oro altarpiece as your guide unveils the basilica’s treasures. Next, explore the Doge’s Palace, the heart of Venetian political power. Traverse the opulent halls, the Bridge of Sighs, and the eerie prisons, with your guide providing insights into Venice’s illustrious past.

Hidden Venice and Gondola Ride

Delve into the lesser-known quarters of Venice with your guide, exploring the city’s hidden gems and tranquil canals away from the crowds.

What better way to conclude this intimate exploration than with a private gondola ride? Glide through the serene waterways, under historic bridges, and past ancient palazzos, offering a unique perspective of Venice’s timeless beauty.

Day 6: Murano & Burano - Artisanal Islands of Venice

Venture beyond the main island on guided private tours to explore the rich cultural heritage and artisan traditions of Murano and Burano.

Murano Glassblowing Experience

In Murano, known for its centuries-old glassblowing tradition, we will include a private visit to a renowned glass studio for a private demonstration.

Witness the skillful transformation of molten glass into exquisite art by master glassblowers. Your guide will explain the history of glassmaking on the island, and you’ll have the opportunity to attempt your own creation before exploring the studio’s gallery, showcasing stunning glass artworks.

Burano Lace-making and Colorful Homes

Next, your guide will take you to the picturesque island of Burano, famous for its brightly colored fishermen’s houses and delicate lace-making.

Visit a local artisan’s workshop for a private demonstration of the intricate art of lace-making, a tradition passed down through generations.

Wander the vibrant streets with your guide, who will share tales of the island’s history and culture.

As you return to Venice, reflect on the unique experiences and skilled craftsmanship of Murano and Burano. These islands offer a deeper understanding of the Venetian Lagoon’s cultural diversity and artistic heritage, making them essential to the Venetian experience.

Day 7: Arrival in Nice - Gateway to the French Riviera

Begin your French Riviera adventure with a 1 hour morning flight from Venice to Nice, transitioning from the Lombard capital’s urban elegance to the sun-drenched allure of the Côte d’Azur.

Arrival and Promenade des Anglais

Your private guide will welcome you at the airport and start your tour along the famous Promenade des Anglais.

With its azure backdrop and palm-fringed walkways, this iconic seafront boulevard epitomizes the Riviera’s charm. Your guide will share the promenade’s history and role in Nice’s transformation into a belle époque resort town.

Old Town Exploration and Cours Saleya

Dive into the heart of Nice with a guided stroll through the vibrant Old Town (Vieux Nice).

Discover the narrow, winding streets filled with colorful buildings, traditional shops, and the lively Cours Saleya market. Your guide will reveal the stories behind historic sites like the Palais Lascaris and the Nice Cathedral, offering insights into the city’s rich cultural tapestry.

Castle Hill (Colline du Château)

Your first day in France draws to a close with a visit to Castle Hill, offering panoramic views of Nice and the Baie des Anges.

As the sun sets, your guide will illuminate the hill’s history, from its early Greek settlers to its current status as a picturesque park, providing a serene ending to your first day in Nice.

Day 8: Artistic Journey in Nice & Saint-Paul-de-Vence

Dedicate your second day in the city to exploring Nice’s artistic heritage and the enchanting village of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, a haven for artists and writers.

Matisse Museum and Chagall Museum

Nestled in the Cimiez neighborhood, your guide will take you to the Matisse Museum, where they will showcase Henri Matisse’s life and work in Nice.

Continue to the Chagall Museum to admire Marc Chagall’s vibrant biblical paintings, with your guide providing context to his unique style and themes.

Saint-Paul-de-Vence

Travel to the medieval village of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, known for its art galleries and studios.

With your guide, wander the cobblestone streets, explore the local art scene, and learn about the village’s allure to past artists like Marc Chagall.

Visit the Fondation Maeght, a modern art museum set amidst a sculpture garden, where your guide will highlight key works and the foundation’s history.

Day 9: From Nice to Monaco: A Glimpse into Riviera Glamour

Experience the opulence and charm of Monaco, the jewel of the French Riviera, on this exclusive day trip from Nice. This trip blends luxury, history, and stunning coastal views.

Monte Carlo's Casino Square

The famous Monte Carlo district awaits as you are escorted to the iconic Casino Square, where the world-renowned Monte Carlo Casino stands as a testament to luxury and elegance.

Stroll around the square, taking in the sight of lavish cars and the exquisite Hôtel de Paris. Your guide will share tales of the casino’s storied past and its impact on Monaco’s allure.

Prince's Palace and Monaco-Ville

Journey to the historic heart of Monaco, Monaco-Ville, on “The Rock.” Here, explore the Prince’s Palace, the official residence of the ruling Grimaldi family. You may witness the ceremonial Changing of the Guard depending on the time of year.

Wander the narrow, picturesque streets of the old town with your guide, uncovering its medieval architecture and visiting the Saint Nicholas Cathedral, where Grace Kelly is interred.

Exotic Garden and Panoramic Views

Our luxurious day trip comes to an end at the Exotic Garden (Jardin Exotique de Monaco), perched on the cliffsides. This unique garden is home to an impressive collection of succulent plants and offers breathtaking panoramic views of Monaco and the Mediterranean.

Return to Nice in the evening.

Day 10: Provencal Charm in Aix-en-Provence

Another day trip from Nice beckons as you prepare to immerse yourself in Provence’s stunning natural beauty and timeless charm.

Valensole Plateau Lavender Fields

Drive to the Valensole Plateau, renowned for its vast lavender fields that bloom in vibrant shades of purple during summer.

Enjoy the bliss of the aromatic landscape while the picturesque scenery provides an ideal backdrop for breathtaking photos and a moment of tranquility amidst nature’s splendor.

Verdon Gorge and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

Our exploration of France’s particular natural grace and beauty continues at the Verdon Gorge, often referred to as Europe’s Grand Canyon, where the turquoise waters of the Verdon River cut through steep limestone cliffs.

Discover viewpoints offering spectacular vistas of the gorge and its surroundings. Afterward, visit the charming village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, nestled at the entrance to the gorge. Known for its fine faience ceramics, the village’s winding streets, historic chapels, and artisan shops offer a glimpse into Provencal life.

Evening: Fast Train to Lyon

After a day immersed in the beauty and history of Aix-en-Provence, your guide will accompany you to the train station for your fast train journey to Lyon, the gastronomic capital of France.

Day 11: Lyon

Delve into the rich tapestry of Lyon’s gastronomy, history, and vibrant culture, exploring the city’s renowned culinary scene and historical landmarks with an expert guide.

Vieux Lyon and Renaissance Courtyards

On your private walking tour, explore the narrow traboules (hidden passageways) of Vieux Lyon, one of Europe’s largest Renaissance neighborhoods. The streets reveal courtyards and stunning architectural details.

Learn about the area’s history and its significance during the Renaissance period.

Croix-Rousse and the Silk Weavers

Ascend to the Croix-Rousse district, historically home to Lyon’s silk weavers, known as Canuts.

Your guide will take you through this hilltop area, explaining the silk industry’s impact on the city and showing you some remaining silk workshops where traditional methods are still in use.

Day 12: Beaujolais Wine Region

On a guided day trip from Lyon, experience the charm and flavors of the Beaujolais wine region, renowned for its picturesque landscapes and exquisite wines.

Vineyard Tours and Tastings

Depart from Lyon to the rolling hills of Beaujolais, where you’ll visit several vineyards and wineries.

In a local winery, accompanied by a specialist, you will be introduced to the winemaking process, the region’s unique terroir, and the variety of wines produced here, from light and fruity Beaujolais Nouveau to the more complex Beaujolais Crus.

Historical Villages and Lunch in the Beaujolais wine region

Continue your exploration by visiting some of Beaujolais’ historic villages, such as Oingt and Fleurie, where medieval architecture and charming streets provide a glimpse into the region’s history.

Enjoy lunch in a local restaurant, sampling regional cuisine paired with Beaujolais wines, making for an authentic culinary experience.

Day 13: Paris - Icons of Art and History

After taking the high-speed rail link from Lyon in the morning, you will arrive in Paris in under two hours.

Prepare to immerse yourself in the splendor of the City of Light, exploring its most celebrated monuments and museums with expert guides who bring the city’s rich tapestry of art and history to life.

Louvre Masterpieces

Your Parisian adventure kicks off at the Louvre Museum, home to some of the world’s most iconic artworks.

Meet your guide outside and they will provide you with your tickets before leading you through the vast corridors to see masterpieces such as the Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo, and the Winged Victory of Samothrace.

Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur

Walk the quaint streets of the bohemian Montmartre district with your guide in the evening as they share tales of the artists who once lived here.

The day ends at the Basilica of Sacré-Cœur, offering one of the best panoramic views of Paris at sunset.

Day 14: Parisian Elegance and Seine River Romance

We have dedicated the fourteenth day of your itinerary to experiencing the city’s elegance, from chic avenues to the romantic banks of the Seine.

Champs-Élysées and Arc de Triomphe

Stroll down the iconic Champs-Élysées, admiring luxury boutiques and historic buildings. Your walk culminates at the Arc de Triomphe, where you’ll learn about its historical significance and enjoy sweeping city views from its terrace.

Musée d'Orsay's Impressionist Collections

Take the time to visit the Musée d’Orsay, housed in a grand Beaux-Arts railway station, to explore its world-class Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art collection.

Marvel at works by Monet, Van Gogh, and Degas, as your guide, provides context to the artistic movements represented here.

Seine River Cruise

End your Parisian journey with a private Seine River cruise. Glide past illuminated landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Notre Dame as you end your Parisian journey with a private cruise on the River Seine.

This serene experience offers a moment to reflect on the beauty of Paris, providing a memorable finale to your time in the City of Light.

Day 15: Transfer to Barcelona & Gaudi's Masterpieces

On day 15, we enter the third country on our cross-European adventure. After a one-hour and forty-minute flight from Paris, you will arrive in the heart of Catalan culture and architecture. The day will be dedicated to exploring Barcelona’s iconic landmarks.

Sagrada Familia Tour

Your Barcelona journey begins at the awe-inspiring Sagrada Familia, Antoni Gaudí’s unfinished masterpiece.

Explore the intricate facades and the breathtaking interior of this basilica, learning about Gaudí’s vision and the ongoing construction efforts. Your private guide will ensure you grasp this iconic structure’s symbolic elements and innovative architectural techniques.

Gothic Quarter and Barcelona Cathedral

Continue to the Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic), the oldest part of the city, known for its narrow medieval streets filled with history.

Follow your guide through this labyrinthine district to the Barcelona Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture. Discover hidden squares, historic buildings, and the stories that have shaped this ancient neighborhood.

Passeig de Gràcia and Casa Batlló

Conclude your day with a stroll along Passeig de Gràcia, one of Barcelona’s most elegant avenues, lined with luxury shops and modernist landmarks.

Visit Casa Batlló, another of Gaudí’s creations. Your guide will explain the imaginative design and symbolism behind its façade and interiors, which reflect the vibrant spirit of Barcelona.

Day 16: Barcelona - Montjuïc Hill and Artistic Treasures

Now for some of the lesser visited treasures of Barcelona with a day filled with art, panoramic views, and the city’s Olympic legacy, guided by experts who bring each destination to life.

Montjuïc Hill and Olympic Sites

Montjuïc Hill offers the best views over the city and its harbor. Visit the Montjuïc Castle for a glimpse into Barcelona’s military history, complemented by stunning panoramic vistas.

Joan Miró Foundation and National Art Museum of Catalonia

The Joan Miró Foundation is a museum dedicated to one of Catalonia’s most famous artists. Your guide will highlight Miró’s major works and provide insight into his life and artistic evolution.

Next, visit the National Art Museum of Catalonia (MNAC) located in the Palau Nacional. Marvel at the extensive collection of Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque art, with your guide emphasizing the museum’s most significant pieces and their historical context.

Magic Fountain of Montjuïc

End your day at the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc, where you can enjoy a spectacular water, light, and music show.

Day 17: Valencia - Modern Marvels and Historic Charms

Set off on a high-speed train journey from Barcelona, arriving in Valencia in just 2.5 hours to begin a day of innovative architecture and timeless traditions.

City of Arts and Sciences

Start exploring Valencia with a visit to the City of Arts and Sciences, a stunning creation by architects Santiago Calatrava and Félix Candela.

With your private guide alongside you every step of the way, explore the futuristic structures, including the Hemisfèric, the Science Museum, and the Oceanogràfic. Your guide will delve into the design concepts and the role of this complex in Valencia’s cultural and scientific development.

Valencia's Old Town and Cathedral

Transition from modern to historic Valencia as your guide leads you through the winding streets of the Old Town.

Visit the Valencia Cathedral, where you can see a mix of architectural styles and learn about its claim to house the Holy Grail. Explore the bustling Plaza de la Virgen and the Gothic Silk Exchange (La Lonja de la Seda), a UNESCO World Heritage site, to understand Valencia’s historic trade importance.

Turia Gardens

Stroll through the Turia Gardens, a verdant oasis in the city built on the former riverbed of the Turia River. Enjoy a relaxing stroll through the urban park as you enjoy the sculptures, fountains, and bridges on display.

Day 18: Valencia's Coastal Beauty and Culinary Delights

Focus on the Mediterranean coastline and rich culinary heritage of Valencia on day 18.

Albufera Natural Park

Venture south of Valencia to the Albufera Natural Park, a vital wetland reserve known for its biodiversity and beautiful lagoon.

Enjoy a boat tour on the lagoon, highlighting the local flora and fauna and the importance of rice cultivation in the area, essential for Valencia’s signature dish, paella.

Paella Cooking Class

Embrace Valencia’s culinary traditions with a private paella cooking class.

A local chef will guide you through the steps of creating authentic Valencian paella, sharing tips and the cultural significance of this iconic dish. Enjoy the fruits of your labor in a delightful meal, gaining a deeper appreciation for Valencia’s gastronomic legacy.

Malvarrosa Beach

End your day with a relaxing visit to Malvarrosa Beach, Valencia’s popular urban beach. Take a leisurely walk along the promenade, and enjoy the Mediterranean breeze as you prepare to visit the Royal Capital of Spain the following day.

Day 19: Madrid - A Tapestry of Royal Splendor and Artistic Riches

A swift one-hour and 40-minute high-speed train journey from Valencia brings you into the heart of Spain’s capital, where royal history and art converge.

Royal Palace of Madrid

Your first stop in Madrid is the Royal Palace, the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family, where you will explore the opulent state rooms on an exclusive private tour.

Throughout the Palace, your guide will share intriguing stories of its history and architectural evolution. Each room is adorned with art and exquisite furnishings, revealing the lifestyle and tastes of Spanish royalty.

Prado Museum

One of the world’s premier art galleries, the Prado Museum, is your next destination.

Your tour here promises to be an exquisite guided journey through an impressive collection of European art, highlighting masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, El Greco, and Titian. Gain insights into these works’ historical and cultural contexts, enhancing your appreciation of Spain’s rich artistic heritage.

Stroll through Retiro Park

Top off your day with a leisurely walk in Retiro Park, Madrid’s most famous green space.

The park perfectly balances significant landmarks, such as the Crystal Palace and the Monument to Alfonso XII, while ensuring a pervading sense of space and relaxation.

Day 20: Madrid - Vibrant Streets and Historic Neighborhoods

Navigate Madrid’s lively avenues and traditional districts, enriched by the expertise of local guides, and immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

Madrid's Habsburg District

We begin our second day in Madrid in the Habsburg district, the historic heart of the city, where you can explore the Plaza Mayor, a grand square with a rich history of markets, bullfights, and public executions.

Wander through the narrow streets to the Mercado de San Miguel, where the city’s culinary delights are on full display.

Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum and Gran Vía

Visit the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, housing an extensive art collection that complements the Prado’s, with works ranging from medieval to modern.

With so many masterpieces on display, a private guide is essential to maximize your time here, exploring and highlighting key pieces and the stories behind them.

Afterward, take a stroll down Gran Vía, Madrid’s bustling thoroughfare, known for its grand architecture, theaters, and shops.

Flamenco Show

Experience the passion and intensity of Flamenco at a local “tablao.”

Truly, no trip to Spain would be complete without taking the time to view the mesmerizing dance and music that capture the spirit of Spain.

Day 21: Day Trip to Toledo

Spend your final day in Spain, the last of our 21-day itinerary, on a day trip to Toledo, a city that stands as a testament to Spain’s diverse historical layers, from its Moorish past to its medieval heritage.

Toledo's Historic Center

In Toledo, your guide will lead you through the winding streets of the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Visit the imposing Alcázar, the majestic Toledo Cathedral, and the Santo Tomé Church, home to El Greco’s masterpiece “The Burial of the Count of Orgaz.”

Jewish Quarter and Synagogue

Explore Toledo’s Jewish Quarter, where the Synagogue of Santa María la Blanca and the El Tránsito Synagogue and Sephardic Museum offer insights into the city’s multicultural past.

Your guide will share the history of Toledo’s Jewish community and the significance of these well-preserved sites.

Return to Madrid

With a final private transfer to your accommodation in Madrid, we conclude our epic three-country itinerary, having explored the best of Italy, France, and Spain in just 21 days!

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Contact Us About This Italy, France & Spain Itinerary

From the ancient streets of Rome to the elegant boulevards of Paris and the lively squares of Madrid, each day has been an invitation to explore and cherish. If this journey speaks to your spirit of adventure and cultural curiosity, we invite you to contact our tour planning team.

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Salut from France! I’m Debbie, founder of Luxury France Tours.

Having developed into a Francophile on a trip to the French Alps many years ago while still in school, I moved to France after a career traveling the world led to me meeting my (now) French Husband in Johannesburg. I created Luxury France Tours as a way of sharing my love of France & igniting this passion in others.

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Romantic Escape to France, Spain & Italy Tour

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Countries Visited

Places visited, suggested duration.

From the French Riviera to Italy’s Amalfi Coast, Paris, Barcelona, and Rome, this is a romantic journey crossed three superlative countries. Think chocolate tasting, Catalan dining, Michelangelo’s frescos, colorful houses on the coast and wine chateaux in the mountains. The pace is relaxed – three days each in five destinations – and there’s always a new place to walk hand in hand.

Customizable Itinerary

Paris – romance in the city of lights.

Aromas float through Parisian neighborhoods, coffee, chocolate, and the sultry scent of a French evening. Footsteps echo off the cobbles. Small doors tempt you into bistros and bars. The sound of a street musician greets you at a corner, an acoustic guitar that fades as you keep walking hand in hand. Paris is the most romantic of all cities and there’s no better introduction than walking without a plan, especially when your hotel is in such a central arrondissement . Today you’re greeted at the airport and transferred privately to the hotel. The rest of the day is free to explore on your own.

What's Included:

Paris – Walking the Seine and Chocolate in Saint-Germain

While the Eiffel Tower is a famous image, the Parisian experience is best in small neighborhoods. It’s here you find a local and authentic side to the city, especially when you have a good guide. Today you tour the neighborhoods. Follow your nose to a chocolatier in Saint-Germain, the place that gave the world macarons. Walk through the grandeur of Ile de la Cite, Saint Chapelle to one side, and Notre-Dame de Paris to the other. Explore bohemian history in Montmartre, the place where Van Gogh and the others would hang out at small cafes. Then finish the day in a bistro, trying delicacies from all across the country. The tour will finish in the mid to late afternoon, leading you into another quiet evening in the heart of Paris.

Paris – A Day in Fontainebleau

Smells continue to guide you, this time a forest of oak an hour south of Paris. As you walk through the trees, you come across a palace, a magnificent World Heritage Site on the scale of Versailles just without the crowds. Explore its art, admire the gold-gilded corridors, and take a coffee on a verandah with garden views. From here you keep exploring heading into the small town of Fontainebleau, where the farmers market continues as it has done for centuries. Fontainebleau is like a microcosm of old-world France, a mix of regal grandeur, quiet nature, and tradition. After half a day here, you return to Paris and have time to visit any of the Parisian icons you deem essential such as the Louvre or Eiffel Tower.

Nice – Lounging Around the South of France

From Paris to Nice the train journey showcases the landscapes of France. You can picture a Monet painting as you zoom south, open valleys studded with stone cottages and church spires. Food and drinks are provided in the first-class carriage, so sit back and enjoy this window onto what is a relatively rural country. It takes five hours to reach Nice and after you reach your hotel you can stretch your legs on the promenade. The Mediterranean glistens, yachts rock in the harbor, and there are so many al fresco terraces along the water. Nice also provides a good change of tempo after the city. There’s nowhere better in Europe for sunset beach walks.

Nice – A Day in Cannes

Take a look around Nice. Old-world grandeur hangs over the Mediterranean, streets have vibrant modern grit, and it seems you’re never more than a step away from the water. Tourists have been coming here since the 18th century, but the city has always retained its local feel. That can be said of nearby Cannes as well. Spend the afternoon and evening in a city that is so much more than an annual film festival. Chic and emanating glamor, Cannes has a luxuriant feel every day of the year. Couture shops juxtapose palaces, designer bars look onto the Mediterranean, a castle, and cathedral rise high above the yachts. This is the French Riviera, and you’ll soon see why it is so revered.

Nice – The Wines and Mountains of Southern France

Into the mountains today, the road winding as it ascends towards the vineyards of Provence. They’ve been making wine here for 2,600 years and you can tell, such subtlety and sensuality to what you taste. Visit three chateaux. At one you taste with a winemaker, at another, you explore old vintages, and at a third, you dine with sublime views over the Cote d’Azur. The Rose wines are legendary, the whites are precious, then the full-bodied red wines go well with lunch. After the tutored tasting, you’re back on the French Riviera for a final evening on the promenade. By now you might have a favorite cafe or bar, perhaps even a spot to watch the sun drop into the Mediterranean.

Barcelona – Soaking Up Catalan Flavors and Fine Dining

It’s only a short flight to Barcelona but the atmosphere changes greatly. Cured ham hangs from small shops. There’s a bustle to the pedestrianized streets, Barcelona a city that’s quick to whisk you into its atmosphere. Explores the elegant lanes of Barrio Gothic, eat tapas on a terrace, follow the Columbus statue to the beach, and absorb first impressions of this magnificent city. Like your time in Paris, there will be guided exploration in the coming days. But for now, it’s all about the two of you discovering for yourselves.

Barcelona – Beautiful Modernist Architecture and Barcelona Sunset

Gaudi’s La Sagrada Familia points to the sky, an epic cathedral of peculiar design. Out in the suburbs, you find the mansions of luminaries, Gaudi’s flamboyant style visible everywhere you look. He wasn’t the only Modernist and Barcelona’s finest buildings are those designed by his teacher. With architecture as a lens, today’s tour also helps you understand different Barcelona neighborhoods, from those that are rugged and charming to those of pure grandeur. Park Guell is a romantic place to end the day, a mosaic serpent glistening as sunset colors enliven the sky. Barcelona remains lively after dark, with musicians on the streets and locals going on their evening paseo (walk). The choice of restaurants is superb and the guides can help you get reservations at Catalan favorites.

Barcelona – Exploring More of the Catalan Coast

On your third day in Barcelona and you have a chance to explore more of Spain. Start the morning with a short drive into the mountains, choir song leading you into the grand monastery of Montserrat. Take the cable car up the peak for views across Catalonia then stop for lunch in a small village, where tradition dictates every day. Just south of Barcelona there are beautiful coastal towns where winding cobbled streets descend onto golden beaches. This day is kept flexible and the guide can adjust where you go based on your mood. That could be more time on the coast or more time in the city, perhaps discovering Barcelona’s superb art scene.

Rome – Immersed in the City of Legends

Fly to Rome and once again the atmosphere changes. France, Italy, and Spain have a distinctive feel, one that you can only understand when you visit. Welcome to a land of coffee smells, gelateries (ice-cream stores), and iconic history. You’re in the heart of the old Roman Empire, staying at a hotel that’s around the corner from the Spanish Steps. Walk the pedestrianized lanes, stop for a drink on a piazza, gaze up at The Colosseum, and enjoy your first amorous impressions of Italy. Prepare yourself for many delicious meals of pizza and pasta with a grand range of fine-dining establishments. The guide will give you tips on route to the hotel, telling you where to eat like a local in the heart of Rome.

Rome – Discovering the Vatican Museums

Columns send shadows across St Peter’s Square. The domes of a grand basilica look down. You’re in the Vatican, gazing around at the magnificence of history. Skip the queues and enter the Vatican Museums, going beyond the rope to take a private staircase used by popes. The art extends with Renaissance sculptures crafted from marble, towering canvases that fill entire walls and chapels enlivened by artistic details. It’s best to go early when museums have just opened. That avoids the bulk of the crowds and leaves a full afternoon to go on exploring Rome. One romantic option today is to take a horse and carriage ride out to Trastevere, a neighborhood of cobbled streets and the most delightful restaurants.

Rome – More Romance in Ancient Rome

Stand in the Colosseum and inhale the history. Wander into the Pantheon and appreciate its details. Discover the excavated heart of the Roman Empire, where the columns lay cracked yet not bowed. With a historian guide, you see how a city and empire evolved, going beyond the postcards to understand how Rome influenced the rest of the world. It’s a full-day tour with lunch, one that moves at a slow pace so that you can really soak up Rome’s legends. These are not places you can simply photograph and move on. There’s an ineffable feeling of standing in ancient Rome and surrounding yourself with all the legends.

Sorrento – Lounging on the Italian Coast

The train from Rome to Naples takes a little over an hour. At the station, you meet a guide and store your luggage, before heading off to discover one of Italy’s most misunderstood cities. Naples is gritty and down to earth, yet it’s also chic and contemporary. The architecture has a faded grandeur, and this lack of polishing is what makes the Naples experience. Discover the key sights then eat pizza in the city where pizza originates. Later on today, you’ve driven a little further south to Sorrento, a town of colorful houses built into imposing cliffs. Relax on the small piazza, look down on the Mediterranean, and feel the brilliance of being perched between mountain and sea.

Day  14 - 15

Sorrento – Indulgence and Tranquility

Sorrento is a romance. It’s waking up late and listening to church bells echo onto the mountain. It’s walking down to waterside cafes and lazing away two hours at a terrace. It’s taking a boat to Capri and finding a quiet beach. From Sorrento, you can easily reach the other side of the peninsula and the towns of the Amalfi Coast. Another option is to spend half a day in the ruins of Pompeii, which stand beneath the looming dome of Mount Vesuvius. But most of all, when staying in Sorrento you can relax. After visiting so many cities, the exploration these last two days are just about the two of you.

Naples – Departure

It’s a short transfer back to Naples for the start of your outbound journey. The airport transfer is private, and late check-out can be arranged.

Trip Highlights

• Indulge on the French Riviera, including a day in Cannes and a day of wine tasting at different chateaux
• Celebrate in style with three days in Barcelona, a city of superlative architecture and cuisine
• Surround yourself with legends in Ancient Rome, your hotel in the middle of the history
• Start the vacation in Paris, the most romantic city of them all
• Relax on Italy’s coastline with three nights around Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast where colorful old-world towns are draped above the water
• Go chocolate tasting, walk the Seine and spend a day in Fontainebleau
• Stand beneath Vesuvius, spend a day in Naples and explore the art of the Vatican
• High-speed train journeys provide a window onto France and Italy, with direct flights used for international travel

Detailed Description

The romance flows in Europe’s great cities. You will stroll along the River Seine, Parisian neighborhoods, and the cobbles of Ancient Rome. In Barcelona, you will experience the food, the architecture, the atmosphere of centuries past. It wouldn’t be a romantic vacation in Europe without time on the Mediterranean. Lounge on the promenades of the French Riviera, where al fresco terraces look out onto lulling yachts. Gaze into the water from the cliffs of Sorrento, where colorful houses meet the sunset. This itinerary has been handcrafted for those seeking romance in old-world Europe. With three days each in five different destinations, you have time to take it slow and explore at the pace that romance deserves.

Your hotels are centrally located, close to legendary sights but tucked away, often on cobbled streets. Travel from Paris to Nice by high-speed train, crossing most of France in just five hours, a beautiful journey for a picnic and a view. Rome to Naples is also by train, a window onto landscapes you would miss by flying. The other destinations are connected by direct flights. Local guides lead the discovery in each destination, introducing you to their cities and taking you out to nearby wonders – the Palace of Fontainebleau, Cannes, Montserrat, Pompeii and so many other places that await your discovery.

Start with three days in Paris. Go chocolate tasting in Saint-Germain, soak up the iconic sights, dine in local bistros and take a day trip to Fontainebleau. In Nice, you spend the evenings lounging on the French Riviera, with a day in Cannes and a day in mountain vineyards. Barcelona is another city for romantic dining. Indulge in the food and the architecture, hear the choir singing in Montserrat, and find more promenades to walk. You’re surrounded by legends in Rome – The Colosseum, Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain – and have a day dedicated to Vatican City and its art. Tour Naples on route to your final stop, the cliffside town of Sorrento. Sunset colors reflect off the Mediterranean, and you settle into a final three nights of amorous luxury, just the two of you in one of Europe’s grandest destinations.

Starting Price

$5,467  per person (excluding international flights)

Your Zicasso trip is fully customizable, and this sample itinerary is a starting place for your travel plans. Actual costs are dynamic, and your selection of accommodations and activities, your season of travel, and other such variables will bring this budget guideline up or down. Throughout your planning experience with your Zicasso specialist, your itinerary is designed around your budget. You can book your trip when you are satisfied with every detail. Planning your trip with a Zicasso travel specialist is a free service.

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Your final trip cost will vary based on your selected accommodations, activities, meals, and other trip elements that you opt to include.

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Travel Home > Itineraries > 16 Day Venice to Barcelona

Italy, France & Spain: From Venice to Barcelona 16-Day Tour Itinerary

• Officially Licensed Guides

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Flexible rescheduling, customize your 16 day tour itinerary.

Welcome to our Venice to Barcelona Tour Itinerary, a journey through three of Europe’s most vibrant and diverse countries: Italy, France, and Spain. 

From the stunning canals and historic architecture of Venice to the breathtaking landscapes and cultural treasures of the French countryside, and the vibrant art and cuisine of Barcelona, this tour offers a truly unparalleled travel experience. 

Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to explore some of the continent’s most iconic landmarks, taste the finest local cuisines, and immerse yourself in the rich cultures and histories of each region.

Trip Highlights

• Venice, Italy
• Bologna, Italy
• Cinque Terre, Italy
• Nice, France
• Marseille, France
• Barcelona, Spain

What's Included?

• Luxury Transport
• Private Drivers
• 24 Hour Online Support
• Fully Customizable Tour Itinerary
• Free Cancellation & Rescheduling

Watch Our 16 Day Tour of France, Italy & Spain Video Overview

Day 1: private water limousine transfer from venice marco polo airport to hotel.

The private water limousine transfer from Venice Marco Polo airport to your hotel is the ultimate way to start your vacation in style. 

As soon as you arrive at the airport, a professional chauffeur will greet you and assist you with your luggage before escorting you to your private water limousine. Sit back and relax as you are whisked away across the Venetian Lagoon to your hotel, taking in the breathtaking views of the city along the way. The water limousine is equipped with comfortable seating, music, and refreshments, ensuring that you have a comfortable and enjoyable journey.

Walking Tour of Venice

During your walk through the stunning city of Venice, your guide will lead you to some of the most beautiful and iconic locations in the city. 

The itinerary may include a stroll along the typical canal pathways, a visit to the iconic Rialto Bridge, and a tour of the Fondaco dei Tedeschi, a former German trade house.

You’ll also have the chance to visit Marco Polo’s neighborhood and see St. Mark’s “Great School”. Other highlights of the tour may include a visit to St. John & Paul’s Cathedral, also known as the Dogees’ Pantheon, and a stop at Campo S. Maria Formosa. Depending on your interests and the timing of the tour, your guide will tailor the itinerary to ensure you have an unforgettable experience in Venice.

Venice Gondola Ride

A private gondola trip is the most romantic way to see the city. 

As you glide along the canals of Venice in your private gondola, you’ll be able to take in the stunning architecture, historic landmarks, and charming waterways of this iconic city. Your gondolier, a local expert and professional rower will guide you through the lesser-known waterways and provide you with historical and cultural insights about the city as you go.

During your private gondola trip, you’ll have the chance to customize the route and choose the sights you want to see. Some popular options include a tour of the Grand Canal and a visit to the Rialto Bridge.

You can also opt for a sunset or evening ride, which offers a unique and romantic perspective of the city.

Day 2: Murano & Burano Tour by Private Boat

The islands of Murano and Burano are true gems located just a short boat ride from Venice. 

These majestic and colorful islands are known for their rich history and artisan culture, with Murano being famous for its glassmaking and Burano for its lace production. A private guided tour of these islands allows you to fully immerse yourself in their unique culture and witness skilled craftsmen and women at work. 

As you wander through the bright and charming streets and piazzas of these islands, your guide will provide you with fascinating insights into their history. This private tour is the perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle of central Venice and discover the hidden treasures of these beautiful islands.

Your guide will meet you at your hotel and take you on a journey to the beautiful Island of Murano. After arriving on the island by water taxi, you’ll have the opportunity to visit an operational glass factory and learn about the secrets of this age-old tradition from your guide.

You’ll also get to see skilled artisans at work producing a range of items, from beadwork to spectacular chandeliers. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to learn about and experience the art of glassmaking in Murano.

Your private water taxi will take you to the vibrant island of Burano, known for its colorful houses and rich history of lace production. In the 16th century, the women of Burano began making needlepoint lace, a tradition that is still practiced today. During your tour, you’ll have the chance to watch skilled artisans handmake lace in the time-honored tradition, and admire their skill and craftsmanship up close.

In addition to the lacemakers, another highlight of Burano is the opportunity to wander through the charming streets and take in the stunning array of pastel-colored houses that line the waterfront. With your private guide by your side, you’ll be able to fully immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere and culture of this colorful island.

Day 3: Fast Train or Private Chauffeur from Venice to Bologna

Whichever method of transport you choose the journey will take approx 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Food Tour of Bologna

On this food tour of Bologna, you’ll not only get to taste some of the delicious local cuisines, but you’ll also have the chance to explore the heart of the city with a local host. Your host will take you to the main squares, a food market, and some hidden places that would be difficult to find on your own, all while entertaining you with stories about the culture and traditions of Bologna.

As you make your way through the city, you’ll have the opportunity to sample a variety of delicious foods, including cured meat, Parmigiano, and Aceto balsamico, as well as traditional homemade pasta dishes at a typical trattoria and a visit to a pasta factory. You’ll also get to try the Roman pizza and artisanal Italian gelato, making this a truly mouth-watering and memorable tour.

Day 4: Wine Tasting On The Bologna Hills

This full-day wine tour begins at 9:00 AM with a departure from your location in Bologna by private car or van and an English-speaking driver. At 10:00 AM, you’ll visit the Tenuta Bonzara winery for a guided tour and wine tasting.

After the visit to Tenuta Bonzara, you’ll head to the Az. Agr. Gradizzolo winery for a wine tasting and a delicious lunch featuring a local menu and wines. In the afternoon, you’ll visit the Monteveglio Abbey before continuing on to the Az. Agr. La Colombarola winery for another wine tasting.

The tour will conclude at around 6:30 PM, at which point you’ll be returned to your hotel in Bologna.

Day 5: Transfer From Bologna To Cinque Terre

Join your private guide for the transfer to Cinque Terre which will take just over 2.5 hours.

Cinque Terre Boat Tour

Join us on a tour of the Cinque Terre, starting with a ride on our “gozzo” boat from the Manarola marina. 

We will visit the secluded village of Corniglia, perched atop a rocky cliff, the picturesque Vernazza, and the largest of the Cinque Terre towns, Monterosso. Afterward, we will return to Riomaggiore, the first of the five villages as you travel from La Spezia. Before heading back to Manarola, we will have a short break where you can try snorkeling and explore the stunning underwater world of our clear blue seas.

Day 6: Transfer From Cinque Terre To Genoa

This transfer with your private chauffeur will take approx 1.5 hours.   

Genoa Street Food Tour

Join our Genoa street food tour to discover the local culinary culture and try some of the city’s most popular dishes. 

Led by locals, you’ll be taken to hidden gems known only to the residents. Indulge in fried fish, the best focaccia in town, and other savory pastries as you explore Genoa. Sample traditional pesto and other specialties, paired with local wine or artisanal beer. 

Finish off the tour with a traditional “caffè” and experience the relaxed rituals of the locals.

Day 7: Pick Up At Genoa & Transfer To Nice

Private transfer taking approx 3 hours.

Eze Village, Monaco & Monte Carlo Private Half-Day Trip From Nice

Your tour begins with pickup at your accommodation or hotel in Nice by your English-speaking guide. 

During the tour, you’ll visit the medieval village of Eze, perched above the sea and known for its charming narrow streets and artisanal atmosphere. The village has attracted artists and writers throughout the centuries, including the famous philosopher Nietzsche who is said to have written “Thus Spoke Zarathustra” here. 

After visiting Eze, your tour will continue on to Monaco. Take a walk through the narrow streets of the old town and witness the changing of the guards (on the morning tour). You’ll have the chance to visit the Neo-Romanesque Cathedral and the Memorial dedicated to Princess Grace and Rainier of Monaco. 

The tour will conclude in Monte Carlo, where you’ll see the famous Old Monte Carlo Casino, Hotel de Paris, Café de Paris, beautiful Gardens, and luxurious boutiques. On arrival or departure, you’ll have the opportunity to drive on the Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix race track. The return trip to Nice will include the scenic coastal road.

Day 8: Tour of Nice

On your guided tour of Nice, your guide will take you to explore:

Promenade des Anglais – a famous waterfront boulevard in Nice, ideal for a leisurely stroll with beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Old Town (Vieille Ville) – home to charming streets and squares, colorful houses, and lively markets.

Castle Hill (Colline du Château) – a hill overlooking the city with panoramic views and a ruined castle from the 16th century.

Matisse Museum – dedicated to the works of the French artist Henri Matisse, who lived in Nice for a period of time.

Notre Dame de Nice – a basilica in the Neo-Gothic style with stunning stained-glass windows and an ornate interior.

Place Massena – the central square of Nice, featuring fountains, statues, and a vibrant atmosphere.

Le Suquet – the historic district of Nice, with narrow streets, charming houses, and the famous Tour Bellanda tower.

Transfer to Marseille

Join your chauffeur for the 2.5-hour journey.

Day 9: Walking Tour of Marseille

On your guided tour of Marseille, your guide will take you to explore:

Old Port of Marseille – the historic port of the city, featuring a variety of restaurants, shops, and boat tours.

Notre Dame de la Garde – a Catholic basilica located on a hill overlooking the city, with panoramic views of the surroundings.

MuCEM (Musée des Civilisations de l’Europe et de la Méditerranée) – a museum dedicated to the cultures of Europe and the Mediterranean, with a variety of exhibits and events.

Calanques – a series of rocky cliffs and inlets along the Mediterranean coast, with beautiful beaches and hiking trails.

Le Panier – the oldest neighborhood in Marseille, known for its colorful houses, street art, and bohemian atmosphere.

La Canebière – a main street in Marseille, known for its shopping and dining options, as well as its historical significance.

Château d’If – a castle located on an island off the coast of Marseille, made famous by the novel “The Count of Monte Cristo” by Alexandre Dumas.

La Major – a basilica in the Romanesque style, with a rich history and a beautiful interior.

Parc Borély – a large park with gardens, sports facilities, and a racecourse.

Plage des Catalans – a popular beach in Marseille, known for its crystal-clear waters and fine sand.

Day 10: Pick Up At Marseille & Transfer To Narbonne

Your driver will collect you in the morning to make the 3-hour journey.

Walking Tour of Narbonne

Narbonne, located in the Aude department of Occitanie in southern France, is a hidden gem that offers a rich cultural experience. With a history dating back 2,500 years, Narbonne was the capital of the Narbonne region of Gaul, the residence of Visigoth kings, and the site of the Archbishops’ palace. 

Highlights from your private tour of Marseille include:

Cathedral of Saint-Just-et-Saint-Pasteur – a cathedral located in the heart of the historic center of Narbonne, designated as a Historic Monument.

Archbishops’ Palace – a palace located in the historic center of Narbonne, also designated as a Historic Monument.

Canal du Midi – a canal located near Narbonne, with beautiful scenery and a rich history as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Narbonne Plage – a beach located near Narbonne, with crystal-clear waters and fine sand.

Musée de Narbonne – a museum dedicated to the history and culture of Narbonne, with a variety of exhibits.

La Cité de Carcassonne – a fortified city located near Narbonne, with a rich history and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Château des Ducs de Narbonne – a castle located in Narbonne, with a rich history and beautiful architecture.

Abbaye de Fontfroide – a monastery located near Narbonne, with beautiful gardens and a rich history.

Place de l’Hôtel de Ville – a square in Narbonne, known for its fountain and historical buildings.

Narbonne Food Market – a market in Narbonne, known for its fresh produce, local specialties, and lively atmosphere.

Transfer to Barcelona

End the day with the 2 hours and 40-minute journey to Barcelona.

Day 11: Guided Walking Tour of The Gothic Quarter

Start at the Plaça de Sant Jaume, the central square in the Gothic Quarter. This is a good starting point because it is surrounded by important landmarks, including the City Hall and the Catalan Government Palace.

Head west towards the Barcelona Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture. Take a tour of the interior, which features stained glass windows, stone carvings, and an impressive altar.

Continue walking west towards the Plaça del Rei, a historic square that was once the center of medieval Barcelona. This area is home to several important landmarks, including the Royal Palace and the Gothic Chapel, both of which are worth a visit.

From the Plaça del Rei, head north towards the Plaça de Sant Felip Neri, a small square with a beautiful church and a tranquil garden.

From the Plaça de Sant Felip Neri, head east towards the Roman walls, which date back to the 1st century AD. These ancient walls are a testament to Barcelona’s rich history.

From the Roman walls, head south towards the Plaça de Sant Just, a charming square with a beautiful fountain. From here, you can explore the winding streets of the Gothic Quarter, which are filled with charming boutiques, artisanal craft stores, and quaint restaurants.

As you explore the Gothic Quarter, be sure to keep an eye out for other landmarks, such as the Church of Santa Maria del Pi, the Picasso Museum, and the Palau de la Música Catalana.

End your tour at the Mercat de la Boqueria, a bustling food market that is a must-see for foodies. Here, you can sample a wide variety of local specialties and culinary delights.

Day 12: Montserrat and Llopart Winery & Cava Tasting (Sparkling Wine)

Start your tour by taking the cogwheel train from the base of the mountain to the monastery, located at the top. The train ride takes about 30 minutes and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Upon arrival at the monastery, take a guided tour of the grounds. This will allow you to learn about the history and significance of the monastery, as well as see some of the most important landmarks, including the Basilica of Montserrat and the museum.

After the guided tour, take some time to explore the monastery on your own. Be sure to visit the Black Madonna, a famous icon housed in the Basilica. You can also attend a performance by the Montserrat Boys’ Choir, which sings at the monastery several times a day.

From the monastery, take a short hike to the Sant Jeroni peak, the highest point in the mountain range. The hike takes about 1-2 hours round trip and offers panoramic views of the region.

After your hike, head back down to the base of the mountain and enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the local restaurants. Be sure to try some traditional Catalan dishes, such as pa amb tomaquet (toasted bread with tomato and garlic) or esqueixada (shredded salt cod salad).

End your time in Montserrat with a visit to the Montserrat Art Museum, which features a collection of Catalan and Spanish art from the Middle Ages to the present day.

Llopart Winery

Begin your tour by being picked up at your location by your chauffeur. Sit back and relax as you are driven to Llopart Winery, located in the beautiful Penedès region of Catalonia.

Upon arrival at the winery, meet your private guide, who will lead you on a tour of the facility. Learn about the history and tradition of cava production, as well as the modern techniques used at Llopart.

As you tour the winery, your guide will take you through the different stages of cava production, including grape harvesting, fermentation, and aging.

After the tour, enjoy a private cava tasting in the winery’s tasting room. Savor a selection of cavas, ranging from young and fruity to aged and complex. Your guide will provide detailed tasting notes and explain the characteristics of each cava.

After the tasting, your chauffeur will be waiting to take you back to Barcelona.

Day 13: Gaudí Private Tour of Barcelona Including Sagrada Familia & Parc Güell

On this 4-hour tour, we will explore Modernisme, the Catalan version of Art Nouveau, and visit some of the most famous works of Antoni Gaudí, the renowned Catalan architect.

The Temple of the Sagrada Família is Gaudí’s iconic, yet incomplete masterpiece. In designing the basilica, Gaudí drew upon the traditions of Gothic and Byzantine cathedrals, creating a harmonious blend of form and Christian symbolism. His architecture was highly personal and innovative, incorporating natural shapes, structures, and geometries, and emphasizing the role of light and color.

We will also visit the magical Park Güell, a testament to Gaudí’s creativity and imagination. Commissioned by Catalan entrepreneur Eusebi Güell, this park is a major tourist attraction in Barcelona and was used for traditional Sardana dancing and other social events. Gaudí’s design perfectly complements this recreational space.

On the tour, we will also admire the façades and exteriors of Passeig de Gràcia, including the iconic Gaudí houses, such as Casa Milà (also known as “La Pedrera”) and Casa Batlló, which contribute to the distinct character of Barcelona.

Day 14: Girona & Dali Museum in Figueres

Drive Barcelona – Figueres: 1:45 h – 145 km

Drive Figueres – Girona: 40 m – 50 km

Drive Girona – Barcelona: 1.5 h – 128 km

Salvador Dalí’s hometown of Figueres is home to the Teatre-Museu, a collection of his works that offers an immersive journey into the world of Dalí. Full of imagination, eccentricity, and symbolism, Dalí’s world was like no other. On this tour, you will follow in his footsteps and visit some of the places that were most important to him.

Girona is a historic city located on a fortress-like hill overlooking the Onyar and Ter rivers. It has a rich history dating back to ancient Iberian and Roman times and is known for its Romanesque monasteries, Arab baths, Gothic architecture, charming squares, and the charming Jewish quarter, which retains much of its Kabbalistic mystery from the Middle Ages. The city’s 15th-century cathedral, with the widest unsupported Gothic arch in the world, is a major landmark. Girona is also known as the “city of four rivers” or “Little Florence” and is a fascinating place to explore with its labyrinthine cobbled streets and medieval atmosphere.

Day 15: Private Show-Cooking in Barcelona

Catalonia is known for its rich culinary traditions, featuring smoky spices, earthy stews, and fresh fish and vegetables. As a culinary destination, Barcelona boasts top chefs and world-class produce markets. In this culinary tour, you will have the opportunity to learn about the art of creating excellent regional dishes using great ingredients.

The tour begins with a visit to a local market, where chefs and locals have been carefully selecting produce for many years. You will then head to the kitchen, where a chef will guide you in preparing a delicious menu of local dishes. This hands-on cooking workshop is a fun way to discover the best of Catalan and Spanish cuisine and enjoy the meal that you have created.

The tour includes a market visit, a private cooking workshop, all ingredients and materials, a lunch with wine, and the guidance of knowledgeable and friendly experts.

Day 16: Half-Day Visit To Museu Picasso & Fundació Miró In Barcelona

Pablo Picasso and Joan Miró were two renowned Spanish artists who met in Barcelona during the height of the avant-garde era. 

The Museo Picasso in Barcelona, which opened in 1963, contains a collection of works from the formative years of Picasso’s career, including pieces from his Blue Period and the series Las Meninas. 

The Miró Foundation, founded by Catalan architect Josep Lluís Sert and opened in 1975, features paintings, sculptures, drawings, and ceramic and textile works by Miró, as well as contemporary art. 

The tour will include private guided visits to both museums, as well as tickets and private transportation. The tour will conclude with a visit to the Street Art Center Nou Bostik to see murals.

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Contact Us About A Custom Tour Across France, Italy, & Spain

Our Venice to Barcelona tour itinerary offers a unique opportunity to explore three of Europe’s most stunning and culturally rich countries. 

From the winding canals and stunning architecture of Venice to the vibrant art and cultural scene of Barcelona, this tour has something for everyone. 

If you’re interested in customizing this tour or planning a trip to other amazing destinations across Europe, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Travel by Luxe. Our team of experienced travel professionals will work with you to create a personalized and unforgettable travel experience.

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Spain-France-Italy (11 nights/12 days or 12 nights/13 days)

Yet another classic itinerary covering the key three attractions in Europe that are a must see when visiting Europe. This itinerary takes you to Spain, France and Italy with sightseeing ensuring that you see the slice of Europe right from the cultural to modern Europe. Itinerary also provides options for day trips. As with any Black Grape holidays, this one too can be customised as per your exact requirement.

Additions we recommend if you happen to have few more days at hand are: a visit to Amsterdam, Brussels and and maybe a Switzerland.

Spain-France-Italy - 11N/12D (without Florence & Pisa)

Spain-France-Italy - 12N/13D (with Florence & Pisa)

Add a visit to Florence to your itinerary and make it go further!

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Italy, France & Spain

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

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3 insider city tours with a local guide

Entrance to Parque Guell

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).

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.

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.

• 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.

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.

• 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.

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.

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.

• 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.

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.

• 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.

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.

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.

• 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).

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.

• 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.

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.

• 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.

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.

• 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.

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.

• 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.

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.

• 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.

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.

• 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.

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.

• 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.

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.

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.

• 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.

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.

¡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?

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.

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

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

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!

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

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Southern Europe Road Trip: 18 Days Across Italy, France & Spain

Follow our 18 day journey across 3 countries: Italy , France and Spain (4 including Monaco ). Also along for the ride were my parents which made this an extra fun time. If you’ve ever thought about taking a road trip around southern Europe , here’s the ultimate guide to get you started .

Tip #1: Each day below contains links to our posts which cover each location in much more detail.

Tip #2:  We had two cars and communicated by walkie talkies . This saved on purchasing 3 different SIM cards for each country we visited. 

Tip #3: Read more about  car leasing . If you decide to go longer than 17 days it will probably save you money compared to a regular car rental. Let’s go!

New Tip (2023):  Sort out your internet ahead of time. I wish I had an eSIM from aloSIM when I did this trip back 2013. Fast, reliable mobile internet all over Europe for just a few bucks.

Note: tolls & fuel have been converted from EUR to AUD.

Travel tip: If you've got time up your sleeve, consider a detour from Livorno, Italy to the island of Corsica via ferry.

Day 1 - Italy

Pickup car in Rome drive to Praiano

Accommodation: Hotel Margherita, Praiano ( check prices in area... )

Tolls: $22.90

Our car collection from Citroen was smooth and easy. We really enjoyed our trip to Praiano except when we got to Positano. You can read all about that trip here .

We found a wonderful place to stay, high up on the hill and settled in for a few days. To finish up we enjoyed a dinner overlooking the ocean at a cliff-side restaurant that sported a small kid’s playground.

Tip: If you're looking for a rental car, check out Discover Cars for savings up to 70%.

Day 2 - Italy

Accommodation: Hotel Margherita, Praiano  ( check prices in area... )

The car stayed in the garage and we took the bus to Positano today. Wow, what a hairy adventure. Check all the details here . Got our laundry done next door for €15, and spent the afternoon swimming in the hotel pool. 

Day 3 - Italy

Accommodation: Tramonto D’Oro, Praiano ( check prices in area... )

We were going to drive to Amalfi , but ended up going by bus. Our plans to visit Capri were spoiled by bad sea weather. Enjoyed a lovely dinner and watched the sun go down from the top floor of Hotel Margherita .

Day 4 - Italy

Praiano to Pompeii to Matera

Accommodation: Hotel Sassi, Matera ( check prices in area... )

Tolls: $2.80

Back on the road, we left Praiano and headed to Pompeii which was a bit of a let down for us. Afterwards we headed to Matera, which was an absolute surprise – stunning.  We booked into a cave hotel, didn’t have anything on our Turkish ones , but was comfortable and large.

Day 5 - Italy

Matera to Termoli

Accommodation: Hotel Mistral, Termoli ( check prices in area... )

Josh did a sunrise photography tour around Matera before we ate some breakfast and headed down the coast to Alberobello . This little town was mysterious and a must-see in Italy. 

After Alberobello we visited the Molfetta Outlet before heading to Termoli.

We arrived late and simply bought ham and bread for sandwiches that night. It was nice to have plain food after rich Italian most nights and it was good to stay in and get a proper sleep. 

Day 6 - Italy

Termoli to Perugia

Accommodation: Albergo Nyers, Perugia ( check prices in area... )

The breakfast at our hotel was delicious. We didn’t stick around in Termoli, opting to head straight to Perugia . We were meant to meet my mum and dad for lunch, but couldn’t find them so headed straight to Perugia.

Perugia was just as surprising as Matera, a beautiful part of Italy that needs to be visited. We enjoyed a walk around the city and dinner in town. 

Day 7 - Italy

Perugia to Florence

Accommodation: Villa San Michele, Fiesole Firenze ( check prices in area... )

Our GPS directed us down some dangerously narrow roads to the wrong location, but we eventually made it to our hotel. 

After we had checked in at the amazing Villa San Michele we took a taxi to Florence and had a walk around town vising the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio and riding the carousel.

As the sun went down we opted to return to Villa San Michele for one of the best meals of our life.

Tip: If you're looking for a more authentic accommodation experience, take a closer look at  Italian Agriturismo . As the name suggests, it combines agriculture with tourism in the form of beautiful rural properties and delicious produce. 

Day 8 - Italy

Accommodation: Villa San Michele, Fiesole Firenze ( check prices in area... )

Following breakfast we went for a swim in the pool. The kids went to kids club while Josh and I enjoyed a leisurely lunch by the pool, did some writing and booked some flights.

The kids came back for a nap and play. We had organized a babysitter to watch the kids and headed back to Florence via the hotel shuttle for a double date with my parents.

After my Dad attempted a 1kg steak we headed to a gelati store taking another walk around the city.

Day 9 - France

Florence to Pisa to Nice, France

Accommodation: Little Palace, Nice ( check prices in area... )

After our delicious breakfast, it was a sad farewell to Villa San Michele.  Josh could not leave Italy without seeing the Leaning Tower of Pisa so we headed off early that morning for a quick stop at Pisa.

I found a great parking spot, Josh took a few happy snaps and we were back in our car on the way to Monte Carlo, Monaco.

This was another quick stop checking out the super impressive cars and gold star hotels before continuing onto Nice, France. Phew! 3 countries in one day.

In Nice we had a walk along the French Rivera, stopped for a terrible dinner with arrogant waiters and checked into our tiny out-of-the-way hotel.

Day 10 - France

Nice to Arles

Accommodation: Airbnb Apartment , Arles ( check prices in area... )

Tolls: $30.20

Crepes for breakfast were better than dinner. And we checked out of Nice and headed to Cannes. Took some photos by the beach and then drove to Aix.

We had a great walk around Aix, stopped for a delicious burger lunch and drove onto Arles.

Our apartment was ready for us and was ultra-cute in a very French-loft-kind-of-way. Cooked our meal in our apartment and had a night in.

Day 11 - France

Accommodation: Airbnb Apartment , Arles ( check prices in area... )

We met my parents and took a walk to the old city, visited the amphitheater, rode on the carousel and made it back home for an afternoon nap.

Lunch in the old city was not good and our Chinese takeaway was a bit average that evening. 

Day 12 - France

Arles to Creissels

Accommodation: Hericlea Hotel Sport, Millau ( check prices in area... )

Tolls: $7.80

Today we drove to Saint-Guithem-le-Desert. An adorable medieval style town, easy to walk around and enjoy. Decided to have dessert for lunch and had delicious crème brulee and profiteroles. I have to admit, the French know how to do desert.

Back on the road we made it to Millau and checked into our log cabin, while my parents chose a castle. We took a walk around Millau, ate dinner and came home.

Day 13 - France

Creissels to Toulouse

Accommodation: Airbnb Apartment , Toulouse ( check prices in area... )

Today we decided on an impromptu visit to the French countryside and the Aven Armand Caves . The drive was beautiful and the caves fascinating.

We headed to Toulouse after the caves, checked into our apartment and bought some kebabs for dinner, while the kids slept through. 

Day 14 - France

Accommodation: Airbnb Apartment , Toulouse ( check prices in area... )

We took a walk around Toulouse today, found a playground and rode a carousel again. Had an afternoon nap before heading for dinner at the Hippopotamus, which was pretty good. 

Day 15 - Spain

Toulouse to Pamplona, Spain

Accommodation: Hotel Avenida, Pamplona ( check prices in area... )

Tolls: $39.30

Impound: $140

Early start this morning… didn’t happen. Walked out of our apartment towards our car and there was a market there. No car. The French police stole our car .

Finally after several hours we got on the road for a mad run to get to Pamplona, Spain.

Made a stop at a highway road stop for lunch and kept going making it to our hotel late afternoon.

We decided to take a walk around town and stumbled, by chance, upon a family “running of the bulls”. It was absolutely delightful and one of my favourite spontaneous moments of our road trip. 

Josh tried boar stew for dinner before we headed back home. 

Day 16 - Spain

Pamplona to Barcelona

Accommodation: Mercer Hotel, Barcelona ( check prices in area... )

Zaragoza was on our stops today and we had a fun lunch at Tommy Mel’s Diner before continuing our trip to Barcelona.

We all decided Barcelona was not made for cars and we hit up Citroen to return our car. It happened to be the same depot as my parent’s Renault so we hitched a taxi back to our hotel.

The taxi was clueless and dropped us some distance, but when we finally walked with all our stuff to the Mercer Hotel we were in awe.

The kids had left overs from lunch and I found a Chinese restaurant across the street for Josh and I to enjoy while the kids were fast asleep. 

Day 17 - Spain

Accommodation: Mercer Hotel, Barcelona ( check prices in area... )

Today we explored Barcelona . We walked the main drag to the bus stop to get to Guell Park.

Once we finished there I headed back to the hotel with some tapas to let the kids nap, while Josh went on to the famous Cathedral.

Later that evening we walked to the harbor and stopped for some Spanish food. Dinner at El Ray De La Gamba was a disappointment. 

Day 18 - Ireland

Barcelona flight to Ireland

Accommodation: Ballsbridge Hotel, Dublin ( check prices in area... )

My parents came to our hotel to say goodbye today. It was emotional. We grabbed a taxi to the airport and took our first Ryanair flight to Dublin, Ireland . Made our home at the Ballsbridge for the next 6 nights. I got to go to a Guinness Storehouse party while Josh stayed home with the kids.

And there you have it. Our 18-day journey through Italy, Monaco, France and Spain. Italy by far was my favourite, followed by Spain and with the experiences we had in France I have to say I am not a fan. Jaded as it was by the missing car incident, rude restaurant staff and disappointing food choices. But maybe it was just my English blood. In all seriousness, seeing southern Europe by road is a great way to go. There are so many little towns that exude their unique flavor and I wish we could see them all. Maybe next time.

Road Trip Tally

Total Days:  18

Total Tolls:  AUD$252

Total Fuel:  AUD$476

Total Distance:  3,507 km  (2,179.15 miles)

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Reader Comments...

I would love to do a road trip through Italy. I've been to Rome, Pisa, Florence, and Venice, but I want to see the tiny towns next time. So I'll add some of this to my list. Thanks. When you were talking on FB about Eastern Europe, have you thought about Germany? I know you saw that in your younger days, but it would make an amazing road trip. I want to return for a long stay in Germany, and some more camping in Australia and Switzerland.

And I am AMAZED that you went that fast with children. I wear out if I travel that fast. I don't do long stays everywhere, but every few days I have to stop and do nothing for a day or two.

Wow! What a trip. I can't wait to try gelati in Italy =)

Fantastic photos Erin and Josh! I love Italy, it is my favourite European country (so far). Last time we did it by train, but despite the scary narrow roads, you've inspired me, that a road-trip would be awesome! You packed a lot into your 18 days goodness me! Thanks for sharing :-)

Well done Erin. You hit parts of Italy we wanted to, but didn't on our road trip there. You have even been to parts of Spain we haven't seen yet! I guess that means we will just have to do it again some time. Those tolls are crazy, aren't they?

This is an awesome daily update that we can use as well when we get to Europe late this year! And the photos are awesome too.

Hi there, Your trip sounds wonderful........I had ask how many miles from Rome to Millau, France. I figure that if someone drove more or less straight thru, it would be about 1200 or 1400 miles.........This would take us 3 days of hard driving so I guess we should take a train......I was hoping to see your pictures of the beautiful bridge in Millau, France......It is so awesome...I just want to see it.........Thank you & good luck on your future travels..........Mary Ann

Me and my friends are planning to go to spain this January. We would love to see some nice beaches with clear water and some stunning scenery. We were thinking Majorca,Ibiza and Canary Island, we are up to some adventures and experience a great nightlife in our travel. I came across this great article too here in https://www.canaryislandsinfo.co.uk/el-hierro/things-to-do/ but i wanted to hear your thoughts first. Can anyone suggest any ideas or tips? Any help is kindly appreciated :)

Erin your article is very amazing and can you give us some advice because we were planning to visit France for vacation this is our schedule base on this website 1. Arrive in Paris 9am. Montmarte and Moulin Rouge 2. Louvre Museum and Arc du Triomphe / shopping day 3. Palace of Versailles 4. Eiffel Tower and Madeline Neighborhood 5. Notre Dame Cathedral, Quartier Latin and Bastille 6. Local Parisian Shopping in Rue du Charone and Eiffel / Louvre at night 7. Flea market and Outlet 8. Tuileries Garden and surrounding area 9. Honfluer 10. Mont Saint Michel 11. Amboise 12. Sleeping Beauty Castle 13. Dordogne and La Roque Gaegac 14. Arles 15. Marseilles 16. Nice Downtown 17. Monaco 18. Grasse 19. Nice 20. Travel Back to Paris What can you say?

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18 Day Mediterranean Coast Road Trip Itinerary

3 adults, 2 kids, 2 walkie-talkies , and 2 cars. Our Mediterranean coast road trip lasted 18 days across 4 countries: Italy, France, Monaco, and Spain. If you’ve ever thought about taking a road trip around the Mediterranean coast of Europe, here’s the ultimate itinerary to get you started.

When my parents asked whether I’d consider driving the Mediterranean coast with them. It was not a difficult decision. The kids and I flew to Italy, cruised the eastern Mediterranean with them, and then decided to drive the western Mediterranean in one epic 18 day Mediterranean Coast road trip itinerary.

Can you drive around the Mediterranean?

The Mediterranean Sea region is surrounded by 21 countries, which together share a coastline of 46,000 km. They are Albania, Algeria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia , Cyprus, Egypt, France , Greece , Israel , Italy , Lebanon, Libya, Malta , Monaco, Montenegro, Morocco, Slovenia, Spain , Syria, Tunisia, and Turkey . And you can drive around, through, and between them all.

What is the Mediterranean coast road called?

No one road takes you from coast to coast as you pass through multiple countries, but here is a rough map of our Mediterranean Coast Road Trip itinerary.

What is the best way to see the Mediterranean?

Having cruised the Mediterranean and road-tripped, both offer pros and cons. But for freedom to stop, change the itinerary, stay longer, leave sooner than nothing beats a road trip Mediterranean coast.

How long does it take to travel across the Mediterranean?

Well, that’s an open-ended question depending on how many of the 21 countries you’d like to visit along the Mediterranean sea. We traveled from the Amalfi Coast in Southern Italy through the French Riviera and Monaco, ending in Spain at a leisurely 18 days.

Top 3 tips for a Mediterranean coast road trip

Tip #1: Each day below contains links to my supporting articles which cover each of these best places in more detail.

Tip #2: We had two cars and communicated by walkie-talkies. This saved on purchasing different SIM cards for each country we visited with different numbers.

Tip #3: You need to read more about car leasing Europe here . If you decide to go longer than 17 days, it will save you money more than a regular car rental. If you are planning a trip under 17 days then consider using RentalCars.com. They have the best car rental prices – Guaranteed.

Our perfect 18 Day Mediterranean coast road trip itinerary

Note: Tolls & fuel have been converted from EUR to AUD.

Day 1 – Italy: Rome to Praiano

Tolls: $22.90 | fuel: $73, accommodation: hotel margherita, praiano ( check prices ).

Picked up my car lease from Citroen and had a beautiful drive to coastal town, Praiano. Check here for prices on how to get to Praiano from Rome.

We found an insanely scenic place to stay, high up on the hill, and settled in for a few days. We finished this evening with a stunning view at dinner overlooking the sandy beach at a cliff-side restaurant that sported a small kid’s playground, and the glorious sound of Church bells.

Day 2 – Italy: Praiano

Accommodation: hotel margherita, praiano ( check prices).

We didn’t use the car today as we decided to miss the infamous curves of the Amalfi coast and take the bus to Positano . As predicted it was quite the hairy adventure.

After our magnificent day in Positano, we got some laundry done next door for €15 and spent the afternoon swimming in the hotel pool.

Day 3 – Italy: Praiano

Accommodation: tramonto d’oro, praiano ( check price here ).

We were going to attempt a drive to Amalfi today but ended up taking the bus again for our day trip. Our plans to visit Capri were spoiled by bad sea weather. It’s a must if you haven’t been before. The evening ended with a sunset from the rooftop.

Day 4 – Italy: Praiano to Pompeii to Matera

Tolls: $2.80, accommodation: hotel sassi, matera ( check prices in this area ).

We were back on the road today leaving Praiano for Matera. We made a quick stop at the famous Pompeii ruins, an Italian UNESCO World Heritage Site, but didn’t feel like it lived up to its reputation.

Our arrival in Matera was a huge surprise. This city is stunning and used in many ancient movies, including Mel Gibson’s famous one.

Day 5 – Italy: Matera to Termoli

Tolls: $17 | fuel: $86, accommodation: hotel mistral, termoli ( check prices ).

My dad captured the most beautiful photos on a sunrise photography tour around Matera before we ate some breakfast and headed down the coast to the ancient city of Alberobello. This little town is so mysterious and a must-see in Italy. The little houses look like something out of a fairytale for gnomes.

From Alberobello, we visited the Molfetta Outlet before heading to Termoli. We arrived late and simply bought ham and bread for sandwiches that night before hitting the sack.

Day 6 – Italy: Termoli to Perugia

Tolls: $21| fuel: $121, accommodation: albergo nyers, perugia ( check prices ).

The breakfast at our hotel was worth a mention! We didn’t stick around in Termoli, opting to head straight to Perugia instead. The kids and I were supposed to meet my mum and dad for lunch, but we headed straight to Perugia as we couldn’t find them.

Perugia was just as surprising as Matera, a beautiful part of Italy that should be visited. We enjoyed a walk around the city and dinner in town.

Day 7 – Italy: Perugia to Florence

Accommodation: villa san michele, fiesole firenze ( check the price here ).

Funny story today as our GPS directed us down some dangerously narrow roads to the wrong location. Felt truly Italian. When we arrived at our hotel I was gobsmacked, it was incredible, and I didn’t want to leave. Thank God we had booked 2 nights.

Leaving the car at the Villa we decided to take a taxi to Florence and enjoyed an evening walk around town visiting the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and letting the kids ride the carousel. We returned to Villa San Michele for dinner and enjoyed one of the best meals I ate in Italy.

Day 8 – Italy: Florence

Accommodation: villa san michele, fiesole firenze ( check price ).

Following another incredible breakfast, the kids and I went for a swim in the pool. After our swim, the kids wanted to stay at the kids club so I enjoyed a leisurely lunch by the pool, caught up on some writing, and even booked some flights.

Once the kids returned I organized a babysitter and headed back to Florence via the hotel shuttle for an evening with my parents. My Dad attempted a 1kg steak before we walked around Florence with our Italian gelato.

Day 9 – Italy: Florence to Pisa to Monaco to Nice, France

Accommodation: little palace, nice ( check prices ).

A sad farewell to Villa San Michele, but I wanted to start early because I could not leave Italy without letting the kids see popular Italian icon , Leaning Tower of Pisa. I found a great parking spot, took a few happy snaps and we were back in our car on the way to Monte Carlo, Monaco.

We stopped in Monaco very briefly for a quick look at the super impressive cars and gold star hotels before continuing onto Nice in Southern France.

Phew! 3 countries in one day.

In Nice, we had a walk along a beautiful beach in the French Rivera, stopped for a terrible dinner with arrogant waiters, and checked into our tiny out-of-the-way hotel. Not a great start for the French part of our journey.

Day 10 – France: Nice to Arles

Tolls: $30.20 | fuel: $91, accommodation: airbnb apartment, arles ( check prices in this area ).

Our crepes for breakfast were better. And we checked out of Nice and headed to Cannes. Took some photos by the beach and then drove to Aix.

We had a delightful time walking around Aix, before driving onto Arles. We had an ultra-cute French-loft Airbnb apartment for the evening so we cooked our meal and had a night in.

Day 11 – France: Arles

After meeting up with my parents we took a walk around the old city , visiting the amphitheater, taking another ride on another carousel, and made it back home for an afternoon nap.

Day 12 – France: Arles to Creissels

Tolls: $7.80, accommodation: hericlea hotel sport, millau ( check price ).

Today we drove to Saint-Guithem-le-Desert. An adorable medieval-style town, easy to walk around and enjoy. Decided to have dessert for lunch and it didn’t disappoint with mouth-water crème Brulee and profiteroles. I have to admit at least the French know how to do dessert.

Back on the road we made it to Millau and checked into our log cabin, while my parents chose a castle.

Day 13 – France: Creissels to Toulouse

Tolls: $2 | fuel: $105, accommodation: airbnb apartment, toulouse ( check prices in the area ).

Today we decided on an impromptu visit to the French countryside to see a French cave, Aven Armand . I’m so glad we did. The countryside was gorgeous and the caves were fascinating.

After the caves, we headed to Toulouse, checked into our apartment, and bought some kebabs for delivery as the kids were already fast asleep.

Day 14 – France: Toulouse

We took a walk around Toulouse today, found a playground, and rode yet another carousel. Had an afternoon nap before heading for dinner at the Hippopotamus, which was pretty good.

Day 15 – Spain: Toulouse to Pamplona, Spain

Tolls: $39.30 | impound: $140, accommodation: hotel avenida, pamplona ( check price ).

An early start this morning didn’t happen. As the kids and I walked out of our apartment towards the car, there was no car. Instead, there was a market. The French police stole my car. Finally, after several hours we were back on the road and made a mad dash out of France to our Spain road trip. After a quick highway road stop for lunch. We made it to our hotel in Northern Spain late afternoon.

Never to miss any opportunity to see an old town we decided to take a walk around Pamplona and stumbled, by chance, upon a family “running of the bulls”. What fun! And such a relief to just have fun after our stressful morning in France.

Day 16 – Spain: Pamplona to Barcelona

Accommodation: mercer hotel, barcelona ( check price ).

Zaragoza was on our list of stops today and we had a fun lunch at Tommy Mel’s Diner before continuing our trip to Barcelona . Having decided not to visit Southern Spain, we all decided Barcelona was not made for cars and hit up Citroen to return our car. It happened to be the same depot as my parent’s Renault so we all squished in a taxi back to our hotel. The taxi driver actually had no idea what he was doing and dropped us some distance. I was bummed we weren’t going ot make it to Costa Brava, but after walking miles to our hotel, I was more then happy. The Mercer Hotel was incredible.

Day 17 – Spain: Barcelona

As part of our Spain itinerary today we explored Barcelona. We walked the main drag and took the bus to Guell Park . Later that evening we walked to the harbor and stopped for some Spanish food. Dinner at El Ray De La Gamba was a disappointment.

Day 18 – Ireland: Barcelona flight to Ireland

Accommodation: ballsbridge hotel, dublin ( check price ).

It was a sad start as our Spanish road trip came to an end. My my parents came to our hotel to say goodbye and I was emotional mess, but determined that the travel must go on. The kids and I grabbed a taxi to the airport and took a flight to Dublin, Ireland. We settled in at the Ballsbridge hotel for the next 6 nights for TBEX.

What is the Mediterranean coast road trip final tally?

And there you have all my travel tips for an 18-day Mediterranean coast road trip through Italy, Monaco, France, and Spain.

Italy by far was my favorite, followed by Spain. Unfortunately, this being my third trip to France, I’m still not a fan, jaded as it was by the missing car incident, rude restaurant staff, and disappointing food choices. I also blame my English blood.

In all seriousness, seeing the Mediterranean Coast by road is a great way to go. There are so many little towns that are the epitome of history and have such a unique flavor. I wish we could see them all. Maybe next time.

Total Days: 18 Total Distance: 3,507 km (2,179.15 miles) Total Fuel: AUD $476 Total Tolls: AUD $252

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Essential sights to discover in France, Spain and Italy

Aug 3, 2012 • 1 min read

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• How to Plan a Trip to Italy and France 2024: 5 Easy Steps

Italy and France boast numerous world-famous landmarks. They are a good combo for a trip to Europe.

In this guide, we'll help you put together a tour of Italy and France, ensuring a memorable journey filled with culture, history, and scenic beauty.

Content Preview

• 1. How Long to Spend
• 2. Itinerary Suggestions
• 3. Best Times
• 5. How to Travel

How Many Cities to Visit and How Long to Spend There

If you want to make the most of this trip to get a classic experience without rushing, we suggest a period of about 12 to 14 days.

You could spend about a week in Italy in two or three cities, usually chosen from its top three cities of Rome, Florence, and Venice. The other week, you would go to France to tour two or three cities, such as Paris, Marseille, and Nice, which are a classic combination.

If you are short on time, make sure to allow at least 10 days for both countries. Spend 5 days in Italy for one or two cities, such as Rome and Florence for culture and history or Rome and Venice for families.

Another 5 days are an ideal minimum for France. Paris is a must. Besides Paris, you could add one more city. Lyon is good for its historical sights, old towns, and food, and Nice is renowned for its beaches.

If you want to explore more places in Italy and France, you may need more than 2 weeks. Then, you could explore southern Italy, for example, the Amalfi Coast (2–3 days) and Sicily (3–7 days). You could go to France's Provence (2–3 days) or Bordeaux (2–3 days) for a wine tour.

Italy and France Itinerary Suggestions

Here are two itinerary ideas, for inspiration.

10-Day Itinerary of Italy and France

• Days 1–3: Rome
• Days 4–5: Florence
• Day 6: Fly to Paris
• Days 7–8: Paris
• Days 9–10: Lyon

We suggest not packing your 10-day itinerary too tightly and recommend exploring 1–2 significant cities in each country.

During a 5-day trip to Italy, consider visiting Rome and Florence. These two cities epitomize Italy's cultural and historical richness, showcasing ancient Roman ruins and various renowned museums.

If you're traveling with children, you might consider replacing Florence with Venice. Venice is like a water-themed paradise where kids could enjoy entertaining boat rides and explore some interesting islands.

In the remaining 5 days in France, visit the famous Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum in Paris. Take a boat cruise along the Seine River to admire Paris from a different perspective. Explore Lyon's old town and visit its iconic basilica, offering panoramic views of Lyon from the Fourvière Hill.

Contact us if you need suggestions on your upcoming France and Italy trip. We would create your itinerary based on your interests and requirements.

14 Days in France and Italy

Week 1: France

• Days 1–3: Paris
• Days 4–5: Marseille
• Days 6–7: Nice

Week 2: Italy

• Days 8–10: Rome
• Days 11–12: Florence
• Days 13–14: Venice

In the first week in France, besides Paris, you could go to southern France to explore the French Riviera. Marseille and Nice are the representative cities. There, you could enjoy the beaches and visit old ports, towns, and markets. If you have time, you could discover Monaco, a country within a country.

In Italy, you could go on a classic route to visit the top three cities. Learn about the history of ancient Rome by exploring historical ruins and architecture, such as the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Trevi Fountain. Learn about the Renaissance in Florence's museums and streets. Experience the beauty of Venice in its canals.

Feel free to contact us if you are interested in this itinerary or if you want to make an itinerary based on your own ideas.

Best Times to Visit France and Italy

If you want to have a good time with comfortable weather and relatively fewer crowds, we recommend visiting France and Italy in April, May, early June, September, and October.

Late June, July, and August are the peak season. July and August are also the months to appreciate Provence's lavender. Summer in France is cooler than in Italy. In July, the highest temperatures in Paris are usually about 30°C (86°F), while Rome sometimes exceeds 35°C (95°F).

If you are planning a summer trip to Italy and France, make sure to book in advance (at least 3 months). With careful planning and expert advice, you could still have an enjoyable tour during the peak season. Feel free to contact us if you need any help.

Winter is the offseason in both countries. Winters are chilly, sometimes with rain. But you could enjoy less-crowded attractions and get better discounts.

You could learn more information on the weather and travel by reading our Best Times to Visit Italy .

Costs for a Trip to Italy and France

The travel cost in France could be a little more expensive than for Italy. The daily private tour cost in Italy is typically about 400–500 USD per person and 500–600 USD in France.

These estimated prices are based on a high-quality private tour for two people, including airfares within/between Italy and France, 4- or 5-star hotels, attractions, guides, and transfers. Kids under 10 would get 30–50% off.

We would give you a more detailed quote based on your specific itinerary, your travel time, group size, and other requirements. Feel free to contact us .

How to Travel between Italy and France

Flying is the most recommended and quickest way to travel between France and Italy. The major cities in Italy (Rome, Venice, and Florence) have direct flights to Paris. The journey takes about 2 hours.

If you're not in a hurry and want a slower pace of travel, you could also consider taking the train. There is a direct train between Paris and Milan, but it was closed due to a landslide in the Alps. If you want to take a train now, you would need to change at Geneva in Switzerland. The whole train journey takes about 10 hours.

Transportation arrangements between the two countries are included in our tour services. We will recommend the best way for you to travel between Italy and France and book tickets in advance according to the itinerary arrangements between the two countries and your preferences.

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11 Best first-time Europe itineraries for 1, 2, or 3 weeks

Europe is going to be very busy in the summer of 2024 as the world is back to normal and travel demand is higher than ever. One other key factor is that most European currencies are still hovering at lower levels historically compared to the US dollar, which means that Europe will feel somewhat cheap again this year. In fact, according to our World Backpacker Index , European cities like Lisbon, Madrid, and Munich are about 30% cheaper to visit than Boston, Chicago, and New York City. In other words, flying to Europe might seem expensive, but most things will be cheaper once you get there compared to the costs of visiting a large US city.

Below you’ll find 11 of the most popular and best itineraries for a first visit to Europe. Your first visit is not really the time to be different or creative, and the famous destinations tend to be popular for a reason. In other words, it’s kind of silly to visit, say, Bulgaria, if you’ve not yet been to France or Italy. I lay out the best options along with how long to stay in each place as a general guide. I also discuss Mediterranean cruises, which can actually be an amazing way to see a lot of Europe on your first visit, especially if you don’t like going back and forth to train stations and airports every 2 or 3 days.

For a bit of fun you might be interested in the cheapest 5-star hotels in Europe , which start at US$80 per night for really nice hotels. It helps show that if you choose some of the cheaper cities, you can treat yourself to some luxury that you can’t afford in most other places.

This article was last updated in March, 2024.

There are 11 starter itineraries described in detail below

• Classic London and Paris
• England and Scotland
• Paris and Italy
• Mediterranean cruise
• France, Belgium, and Netherlands
• Paris and elsewhere in France
• Switzerland
• Best of cheap eastern Europe

For each itinerary there are suggestions of other destinations that are easy to add on to the main cities.

Note: This article was most recently updated in March, 2024

Building the best itinerary for your first trip to Europe

Below there are 11 popular itineraries for one week in Europe. If you’ve only got a week then choose one of them and assume you’ll return again to conquer more of this amazing part of the world. If you’ve got more time then you can choose from some of the top add-on suggestions for each one.

Start in the most famous cities

Your first visit to Europe is no time to try to be different or edgy. I recommend that you  focus on these 5 great cities  before you start branching out into cheaper or more obscure places.

Keep your travel days to a minimum

Spend 3 (or 4) nights in almost every major city

So many first-time visitors are initially planning on spending only 1 or 2 nights in major cities that I wrote a detailed explanation of why  3 nights is ideal for almost all European cities , even if you want to see as much as possible.

3 (or 4) nights will be enough for any city on your first trip

Most first-time visitors are tempted to move too quickly, but it can also be a mistake to move too slowly. It’s really amazing how much you can see in two full sightseeing days. If you spend too long in one city you’ll end up seeing things that are way down your list, while you could be in another city seeing things at the top of your list there.

Choose cities that are easy to reach from each other

For your first trip it’s best to visit cities that are no more than a 5-hour train ride apart.

Choose cities that are connected by reasonable train rides rather than flights

To build on the point above, finding cheap flights within Europe is easy, but train travel is about a million times more enjoyable and less stressful. You’ll enjoy the train rides almost as much as the cities, so focus on places that are within 5 hours of each other by train.

Start with one of the classic itineraries below, and then add to it if you have more time

If you only have 7 days then you’ll find a list below of classic itineraries that are well-suited to a first visit to Europe. Hopefully you have more than 7 days though, and if you do you can add in one or more of the suggested add-on cities to build an itinerary that appeals most to you.

Best 1-week itineraries for the first time in Europe

Itinerary 1: classic london and paris.

• London  (3 or 4 nights)
• Paris  (3 or 4 nights)

Fly into either city and take the 2-hour Eurostar train between them

London highlights

• Big Ben and Parliament
• Westminster Abbey and St. Paul’s Cathedral
• Tower of London and Tower Bridge
• West End shows (Broadway equivalent) and classic pubs
• Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle

Paris is actually far more beautiful than London and the food is famously much better as well. Since Paris gets so many tourists from non-French speaking countries, it’s easy to get by on just English, and the Metro system makes it fast and easy to get around. The architecture of both cities is amazing from the Tower of London, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey to the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower. These cities each pack a huge punch and they are very different from each other as well. Actually, England is arguably the best choice for your first trip to Europe .

Paris highlights

• Eiffel Tower
• Louvre Museum and Museum de Orsay
• Arc de Triomphe and other monuments
• Montmartre neighborhood and Sacré Coeur Cathedral
• Probably the world’s best affordable restaurants and wine

Best add-ons to London and Paris

• Edinburgh  (2 or 3 nights, from London)
• Amsterdam  (2 or 3 nights, from Paris)
• Bruges  and  Brussels  (2 nights, from Paris)

>>> Best one-week London and Paris itinerary in detail >>> Check London hotel deals >>> Check Paris hotel deals

Itinerary 2: England and Scotland

• York (1 night)
• Edinburgh, Scotland  (2 or 3 nights)
• Inverness, Scotland (2 or 3 nights)

York is a small Roman city with intact city walls and one of the most famous cathedrals in Europe. Edinburgh is not only the capital of Scotland, but it’s easily the second most interesting city in all of Britain. If your time is short, skip York and spend more time in Edinburgh.

If you prefer to focus on the south of England on your first trip then the best option is to go to Bath or nearby Bristol after London. Bath is another of England’s top destinations and it’s a gorgeous city that has been a spa resort for many centuries. It’s also reasonably close to Stonehenge. You can also easily get to Cornwall in England’s southwest corner from Bath, and that’s a whole different and fascinating experience (with nicer weather than up north).

If you’ve got more than a week and want to spend more time in Scotland, especially in the summer months, the place to head to is Inverness. It’s a small town that is considered the gateway to the Scottish Highlands, but it’s an interesting and charming place on its own. You can take day-trips by bus to the highlights of the Highlands including the Isle of Skye and Loch Ness. Between you and me, it’s better to minimize time in Loch Ness or skip it altogether because it’s not one of the more photogenic parts of Scotland and the monster has always been a hoax.

Travel times between the recommended places

• London to York by train: 2 hours
• York to Edinburgh by train: 2.5 hours
• London to Edinburgh by train: 4 hours
• Edinburgh to Inverness by train: 3.5 hours
• London to Bath by train: 85 minutes

Best add-ons to England and Scotland

• Paris  (3 or 4 nights from London)
• Amsterdam  (3 nights from Paris)

If you think you want to spend your whole trip in Britain you should have a look at our article on the  best itineraries in England, Scotland, and Wales .

>>> Check London hotel deals >>> Check Edinburgh hotel deals

Itinerary 3: Paris and Italy

• Paris (3 or 4 nights)
• Venice (1 night)
• Florence (2 or 3 nights)
• Rome (3 nights)

From Paris you can easily fly to Venice (or nearby Treviso) where you should try to spend about 24 hours. Venice is small enough to see in a full day, and so crowded that most people are satisfied to leave after that day. The key is to stay in the main part of the main island so you can enjoy Venice before the cruise passengers and day-trippers arrive, and also after they leave for the day. Two nights in Venice would not be wasted time, and it’s possibly the most gorgeous city in the entire world, but you can see the best of it in a bit over 24 hours.

Rome also lives up to the hype and spending a day in the Vatican City will be a highlight even for non-Catholics, but it’s also a crowded and busy city so three days is usually enough for most people. Similar to Paris, Rome is an unusually beautiful city from almost any angle when you are in the historical center. You’ll walk through a stunning piazza (town square) and then turn a corner and you’ll see gorgeous buildings or public statues that are as nice as anything in the museums. Seriously, it’s worth a visit.

Paris to Venice flight: 1 hour 35 minutes Venice to Florence by train: 1 hour 53 minutes Florence to Rome by train: 1 hour 16 minutes

You can of course instead fly from Paris to Rome and then go north to Florence and then to Venice and fly home (or back to Paris) from there, and it would be just as enjoyable.

Best add-ons to Paris and Italy

• Nice/Cannes/Monaco  (2 or 3 nights)
• Avignon (2 nights)
• Bourges (2 nights)
• Bordeaux (2 nights)
• Aix-en-Provence (2 nights)
• Reims (2 nights)
• Dijon/Burgundy (2 nights)
• Milan  (1 or 2 nights)
• Lake Como (2 nights)
• Siena (2 nights)
• Cinque Terre (1 night)
• Naples / Sorrento /Amalfi Coast/Pompeii/Capri (3 to 5 nights)
• Sicily (3 to 4 nights)

>>>Much more information in this article about the best France and Italy itineraries >>> Check Paris hotel deals >>> Check Venice hotel deals >>> Check Florence hotel deals >>> Check Rome hotel deals

Itinerary 4: Mediterranean cruise

In spite of the reputation of cruises to be floating buffets, they can actually be an excellent way to visit a great number of amazing European cities in a short time. The ship typically is in port from the early morning until mid evening, often giving you the opportunity to have dinner in the city (unlike Caribbean cruises). Better still, the cruise ports are often near the center of town, so you can just walk off the ship and do sightseeing on foot or by public transportation.

Mediterranean cruises usually start at 7 nights but can go up to 3 weeks, which can provide an amazing tour of the entire region without having to pack and repack your bags more than once. They also can provide excellent value, especially compared to the price of taking trains or flights and finding new hotels in every destination.

Most popular Mediterranean departure ports

Barcelona, Spain – It’s an easy port to reach. Ships generally go from Barcelona with stops in France and then Italy.

Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy – The port isn’t very close to Rome, but it’s easy to get back and forth. Ships go west to France and Spain as well as south around the tip of Italy and then on to Croatia, Venice, and to Greece.

Venice, Italy – The cruise ships no longer dock close to the best tourist areas, but it’s easy enough to visit Venice for a day or two before boarding a ship. Ships starting in Venice go south and then head west and to Rome and then to France, or they go south to Croatia and then head east to Greece.

Athens, Greece – The cruise port of Piraeus is just south of Athens and easy to reach. Ships from Athens usually head west towards Croatia, Italy, France, and Spain, but there are also ships that visit Greek islands and Turkey.

>>> Check for deals on Mediterranean cruises

Alternative to consider: a river cruise

Amsterdam ,  Budapest , and  Prague  are some of the most popular river cruise ports, but there are dozens of others including many smaller towns in France where few other tourists will be when you stroll off the ship. There is little or no entertainment on the river cruise ships, but passengers don’t miss it because the entire day and into the evening is spent just steps from local cultural offerings and restaurants.

>>> Check for Europe and river cruise deals

Itinerary 5: France, Belgium, and Netherlands

• Paris  (3 nights)
• Brussels  and  Bruges  (1 or 2 nights)
• Amsterdam  (2 or 3 nights)

Paris to Brussels: 1 hour 22 minutes Brussels to Bruge: 58 minutes Bruges to Amsterdam: 2 hours 45 minutes Amsterdam to Paris: 3 hours 17 minutes

Spending 4 nights in Paris and 3 nights in Amsterdam would be a great trip, but if you want to see something else you’ve got a couple options in between. My advice is to spend an afternoon looking around the Grand Place (main square) in Brussels and then hop a 58-minute train ride to Bruges for a night or two. Brussels isn’t a great tourist city, but Bruges really is so it’s a better option for most people. Whatever you choose out of this group, you can be back in Paris on another high-speed train for your flight home.

Best add-ons to France, Belgium, and Netherlands

• Luxembourg City  (1 or 2 nights)
• Cologne, Germany (1 or 2 nights)
• Interlaken, Switzerland  (2 or 3 nights)

>>> Check Paris hotel deals >>> Check Bruges hotel deals >>> Check Amsterdam hotel deals

Itinerary 6: Paris and elsewhere in France

And a choice of:

• Normandy (2 nights)

While Nice is a wonderful tourist city for a look at the French Riviera, the other larger cities of Lyon and Marseilles are probably better saved for a future trip because they are light on key sights compared to many smaller towns. Wine lovers can rent a car or take trains into Bordeaux or Burgundy. Since you can get between most of these towns by train in 2 hours or less, spending only 2 nights in each one is a reasonable option if you want to see a lot in a short time.

Normandy is an interesting choice and easy to reach in only about two hours by train from Paris. Some visitors like to see the famous WWII beaches and memorials, while others (especially in summer) like to check out one or more of the beach-resort towns. Deauville is one of the more famous of those, and it’s also famous for its horse race track and as one of the epicenters of the industry in Europe.

Best add-ons to Paris and elsewhere

• More France, of course

>>> Check Paris hotel deals >>> Check Nice hotel deals

Itinerary 7: Italy

• Rome  (3 nights)
• Florence  (2 or 3 nights)
• Venice  (1 or 2 nights)

Rome to Florence: 1 hour 16 minutes Florence to Venice: 1 hour 53 minutes

Venice is small enough that you can see the main sights in about 24 hours, and it’s so insanely crowded that many people tire of it after about a day as well. It’s better to pay more for a hotel to be on the main island and visit quickly than to save money with a hotel on the mainland where you’ll be in crowds going back and forth as well. Florence is the most relaxing of the 3, and also a great base for side trips to Pisa, Siena, and Cinque Terre, just to name a few.

Going to Italy? Here are the  best first-time Italy itineraries for 3 days to 2 weeks  (in much greater detail)

Best add-ons to Italy

>>> Check Rome hotel deals >>> Check Florence hotel deals >>> Check Venice hotel deals

Itinerary 8: Spain

• Madrid  (4 nights) (including day trip to Toledo)
• Barcelona  (3 nights)

Madrid to Barcelona: 2 hours 30 minutes

A huge part of Spain’s tourism industry is built around its southern beaches and islands such as Ibiza, Mallorca, and Tenerife (in the Canary Islands). For most people it’s best to ignore those places on your first trip because none of the beaches are special enough to spend days on them compared to the culture of the cities.

Best add-ons to Spain

• Valencia  (2 nights)
• Seville  (2 or 3 nights)
• Granada  (2 or 3 nights)
• Lisbon  (3 nights)

By popular demand, I’ve added a full article on where to go in Spain with itineraries from 7 to 10 days up to two weeks .

>>> Check Madrid hotel deals >>> Check Barcelona hotel deals >>> Check Lisbon hotel deals

Itinerary 9: Germany

• Berlin  (3 nights)
• Munich  (2 or 3 nights)
• Rothenburg ob der Tauber (1 night)
• Füssen (1 night)

Berlin to Munich: 6 hours 2 minutes Munich to Rothenburg ob der Tauber: 2 hours 56 minutes Munich to Füssen: 2 hours 4 minutes

Those two cities are the keys to a Germany visit, and after that you’ve got a wide variety of choices. I cover most of the popular choices in my article on  where to go in Germany , which covers several smaller towns that are major highlights.

Best add-ons to Germany

• Cologne (1 or 2 nights)
• Hamburg  (2 or 3 nights)
• Amsterdam  (3 nights)
• Prague  (3 nights)
• Salzburg  (2 or 3 nights)
• Vienna  (3 nights)
• Interlaken, Switzerland  (3 nights)
• Lucerne, Switzerland  (2 or 3 nights)

>>> Check Berlin hotel deals >>> Check Munich hotel deals

Itinerary 10: Switzerland

• Interlaken  (3 nights)
• Bern (1 night)
• Lucerne  (3 nights)

Zurich Airport to Interlaken: 2 hours 10 minutes Interlaken to Bern: 53 minutes Bern to Lucerne: 1 hour 50 minutes Lucerne to Zurich Airport: 1 hour 3 minutes

Interlaken is the best hub for the most dramatic Alps views and experiences. The one-hour cable car ride up to the Schilthorn observation deck is something you’ll never forget, and the only thing that might be more dramatic is the train ride up to the Jungfraujoch station, which is the highest in Europe. Lucerne is almost as beautiful with a scenic lake at its heart and also great mountaintop views nearby. If you do want to see a Swiss city then the capital of Bern is the most interesting and photogenic on a short visit. Read more about  where to go in Switzerland  for even more ideas.

Best add-ons to Switzerland

• Munich  (3 nights)
• Italy (as long as you’ve got)

>>> Check Interlaken hotel deals >>> Check Lucerne hotel deals

Itinerary 11: Eastern Europe’s best cheap cities

• Budapest  (3 nights) and/or
• Krakow  (3 nights)

Each of these cities is beautiful and historic, but English is less widely spoken so they can also be quite a bit more challenging for a first-time visitor. Another difficulty is that the trains between them are still quite slow compared to the high-speed rail in the West, so it takes most of a day from one to another, and a bus is often a better choice. I cover this best cheap Europe itinerary more fully in the linked article.

Prague to Budapest: 6 hours 41 minutes Budapest to Krakow: 9 hours 54 minutes (flying might be better)

Best add-ons to cheap Eastern Europe

• Cesky Krumlov, Czechia  (2 nights)
• Ljubljana, Slovenia  (2 or 3 nights)
• Split, Croatia  (3 nights)
• Belgrade, Serbia  (2 or 3 nights)
• Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina  (2 or 3 nights)
• Sofia, Bulgaria  (2 or 3 nights)

>>> Check Prague hotel deals >>> Check Budapest hotel deals >>> Check Krakow hotel deals

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11 Best first-time Europe itineraries for 1, 2, or 3 weeks " --> All Comments

Hi Roger, was reading your article and reply to various questions and its actually too good and kind from you. if you pls,help me out a route plan for 15days. but my catch is, i have to start from Stockholm.i like to end in rome to head back home. in between what should be my plan?thanks

I’m happy to help. Stockholm to Rome could be done in 15 days, but it would require skipping quite a few great places along the way. My recommendation would be to choose 5 or maybe 6 cities total and spend 3 days in each. If Stockholm is one of your cities you’d only have 12 days left but even if Stockholm didn’t count on the 15 days I think it’s probably best to fly from Stockholm to a city closer to Italy and then do the rest of it on shorter train rides. You could do Stockholm to Copenhagen by train, but those are pretty long train rides and honestly those two cities are pretty similar to each other.

So maybe Stockholm and then a flight to Paris and then trains to Venice, Florence and Rome? That sort of thing. Stockholm is just so remote that it would require at least 3 or 4 longer train journeys but if you flew from Stockholm to Paris (or Berlin or Prague or Budapest or wherever) the remaining train rides would be relatively short. I hope this helps and let me know if you have any other questions. -Roger

Firstly, I would like to thank you for the article and itineraries; they are very helpful.

My wife and I are planning a 3 to 4-month trip around the EU (Western Europe). Before I delve into the specifics of our itinerary, I am wondering if the same 3 to 5-day in each-city principle applies for cases where travellers will spend more time travelling around?

I look forward to hearing from you. Thanks Raf

Wow. That sounds amazing! Even when traveling for longer periods like that I’d recommend a minimum of 3 nights in almost any place you go. The main reason is your travel days tend to be kind of long when you factor in everything from checking out of one hotel to getting to the train station and waiting and then the journey time and then getting to your next hotel and getting situated. All of that usually takes 4 to 6 hours even when the train journey is only an hour or two, so you just don’t get much sightseeing done on those days. So if you only stay 2 nights in each city it means every other day is a travel day and that just takes up too much time.

That said, I think 3 or 4 days is enough time in most places as well. If you really want to get to know Paris, for example, you might stay a week there. But for most cities there are diminishing marginal returns starting on day 3 or 4. In other words, you’ll be able to see the 10 things that most interest you in 3 days or so, and at that point you might be ready to see the Top 10 things in the next city instead of the #11 through #20 things in the first city.

Another thing that is important with longer trips like that is to plan some down time at least every few weeks. If you try to do sightseeing 7 days per week for weeks at a time it starts to feel like a job. What I like to do is every two or three weeks find a smaller town or cheaper place where I can rent a little apartment or some place larger and more comfortable than a typical small European hotel room. And I like to stop in places without many sights otherwise it’s too tempting to keep sightseeing every day.

I’ve actually done quite a few long trips like this and I’m happy to help with any other advice if you like. -Roger

Comment*We are planning on Athens to Amsterdam from June 4, 2024 to Amsterdam June 24th.

We are thinking trains to major cities inbetween Athens and Amsterdam. We are open to anything and everything.

Priorities: Parthenon in Athens, Art Museums in Amsterdam (3-5 days in Amsterdam) Can you help us?

That is a tricky one. Both Athens and Amsterdam are great and very worthwhile, but once you go north of Athens to Thessaloniki in northern Greece, the train service is spotty and very slow all the way until you reach Budapest. Strangely enough, buses tend to be faster and much more frequent in those “eastern” countries like Bulgaria and Romania. Also, being perfectly honest, most of those in-between cities such as Sofia and Belgrade are kind of dull by European standards, although they are quite cheap.

If you really want to visit Athens I’d definitely start there and then after a few days fly to Budapest or some other city in that area that interests you and then carry on from there by train. In fact, Athens to Budapest and then trains to Prague then Berlin and then Amsterdam could be perfect. You could even add in a couple of days in Cesky Krumlov near Prague if you want to include a gorgeous smaller town among the big cities.

Those are all first-class cities and several of them are quite affordable as well. I hope this helps and let me know if you have any other questions. -Roger

Hi, my wife and I would like to visit Rome, Florence, Italy, Venice, Prague, Berlin and maybe Switzerland. This will be the first time travelling to Europe and I would appreciate your help in planning where to start, where to stay, how to get there and where to go. We will be coming from Trinidad and Tobago for 2 weeks. If possible, i would like a day-to-day plan.

Unfortunately I don’t have time to do a day-by-day plan for you, but I can help get you started. If you’ve got 14 nights I would keep the list to 5 total cities. If you tried to include Switzerland on this trip it would mean spending only 1 or 2 days in some cities and that means spending every other day on trains.

I think the best thing to do would be to fly into Berlin or Prague and then spend 3 days there and then take a train to the other one and spend 3 days there and then fly to Venice. Spend 1 or 2 days in Venice and then take a short train ride to Florence for 2 days or so and then a train ride down to Rome for your final 3 days and then a flight home or back to your starting city if that is cheaper. I’m happy to help if you have any other questions. -Roger

Hi, Roger. My wife and I (56 and 63) want to do our first trip to Europe from Canada and would like to start by visiting Portugal (Lisbon and Porto) and Spain (Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Granada y Sevilla with day trips to close small cities in between). What it would be your suggestion for: 1. Stay in each city for a 15/17 days trip? 2. any additions/modifications? 3. Train over flights internally? 4. If we travel with one suitcase of 50 Lbs would it work to take public transit when required? 5. Instead of this plan, would it be better to visit 1/2 famous city in different countries? Would appreciate your inputs. Than you Roger

If you’ve only got about 16 days I’d recommend choosing 5 or maybe 6 cities in total. I strongly believe that 3 nights is the best amount of time to stay in each city so you have two full sightseeing days in each one, although some smaller cities can be done a bit quicker. I go over the reasons in detail on this other article about how long to stay in each European city , but the main point is that if you stay only two nights it means literally spending every other day on trains or in airports and such and you just don’t get much sightseeing done on those travel days with all of the packing and unpacking and checking in and out of hotels.

I’d definitely include Lisbon, Madrid, and Barcelona. You could add a 2-day visit to Porto and 2 or 3 days each in Sevilla and Granada. I’d save Valencia for a future trip. It’s nice, but aside from the new buildings clustered in one area, it’s more generic than any of the others on your list.

The only train between Portugal and Madrid goes over night and I’m not a fan of those so I’d fly on that leg. But from there I’d definitely take the high-speed trains, which are fast and comfortable. Buy your tickets at least a couple months in advance for the best fares.

There will be room for a 50 lb suitcase on the flights (of course) and on the trains as well. On older trains they have you put them on racks above the seats, but on most of the more modern ones (like the high-speed trains) they also have room for larger bags at each end of the carriage. If you can lift them, there will definitely be room for them.

I think your plan sounds really good and those are all great cities. That said, for most first-time visitors to Europe I’d recommend Paris and Italy as those are really more dramatic and interesting, although also more crowded and somewhat more expensive as well. I think once you do the Iberia trip you’ll be hooked and you’ll start planning a trip to France and Italy for the coming years. Let me know if you have any other questions. -Roger

Hi, Roger. Thank you for your comments and recommendations and also for your prompt response. I have modified my plan as I have now 22 days. My Itinerary is Porto(3), Lisbon(3), Seville(2), Malaga(2), Madrid(3),Barcelona(3), Zaragoza(2) and Bilbao(3). What do you think? is this a good plan? Any suggestions? I am still debating between Malaga and Granada though. I included Bilbao to visit friends. The question on the luggage was more related to the comfort to pull a large back in public transit than the allowance in the planes or trains. I will appreciate your inputs. Thank you again, Roger

Those six more days will help a lot. I think your new plan looks really good. You can probably enjoy Porto in 2 days and add an extra day somewhere else, but you might also be dealing with jet-lag so 3 days might be better. Your itinerary looks efficient and logical.

I really like Granada and Malaga, but I think if I were to choose between the two I would go with Granada. Malaga is (in my opinion) an underrated city that is close to some extremely popular beach towns and it’s got a lot going for it, but if you aren’t also going to be staying by the beach I think I’d save it for another trip. Granada has got the Alhambra and Generalife Gardens and those are unlike anything else in Spain or the world for that matter. Granada is small enough to enjoy in two days and I think seeing the Alhambra will be more memorable than anything in Malaga.

Buy your train tickets as early as possible for the best times and fares, and the flight for Lisbon to Seville (or you could take a bus).

And again, your 50 lb suitcase will fit on city to city trains (although not as well on buses or trams within a city), but still (as the saying goes) no one ever went on a trip around Europe like this and swore they would pack more stuff the next time. In other words, 40 lbs is much easier than 50 lbs and getting laundry done cheaply in a country like Spain is quite easy. Let me know if you have any other questions. -Roger

Comment*Hi travelling first time to europe next year we are 55 years age group any suggestions for 10-12 days itenary with guided tour would be nice if any suggestion are there also april or may better time to visit there anil

Actually, all of my best suggestions for first-time visits to Europe are in the article above. If you specifically want a guided tour you’ll obviously just be choosing from the ones that are available from the companies you look it, although many of those should resemble the itineraries in my article. Planning your own trip to Europe is actually quite easy, and especially if you are going to the classic and most popular cities. I’ve got lots of articles that could help you.

I’m not sure how many guided tours you’ve done, but one thing to consider is that they always move at the speed of the slowest person in the group. If YOU are the slowest person in the group then it’s fine, but if you are 55 then you should be much faster than most other people on a guided tour. For example, if you have a coach/bus tour for a day with 5 or 6 stops, you always have to wait for the slowest people to get on an off the bus. I’ve done countless day tours this way and it can be frustrating waiting 10 extra minutes many times each day as slow people are trying their best.

I think my top two best suggestions are London and maybe another stop or two in England and then Paris and other stop or two in France, OR, Paris then another stop in France and then Venice, Florence, and Rome. It obviously depends whether England or Italy sounds more interesting. Let me know if I can be of any other help. -Roger

Planning a family trip with a adult and nearly adult children. Hoping to be able to do 18 to 20 days. Must sees are Paris, Venice, England, and Prague but would adore seeing more! What route would you suggest and should we rent a car, fly, train, river cruise? There are so many options and I’m completely overwhelmed! A suggested itinerary would be amazing!! Thank you!

That sounds like a great start to a plan. As far as “England” is concerned it’s probably best to just think of it as 3 or probably 4 nights in London. With 4 nights you’d have enough time for a good day trip to Bath/Stonehenge and Windsor or to Oxford or even York, but London is big enough to keep you busy and it’s probably best to just stay there and then take the Eurostar train to Paris for 3 or 4 nights.

Prague is a bit out of the way, but you can fly there cheaply enough if you want and then after 3 nights fly to Venice. After 2 nights in Venice I’d take a train down to Florence for 2 nights and then another train to Rome for 3 nights. That would be just about a perfect 18 to 20 day trip including Prague. I definitely wouldn’t rent a car as they tend to be counter productive when visiting a string of large cities that have bad traffic and expensive parking. Your itinerary doesn’t really work with a river cruise at all, but hopefully you can plan one in the future.

It would probably be cheapest to fly from Rome back to London for your flight home (being careful of which of London’s 5 airports you fly into because your flight home will almost certainly go out of Heathrow), but if you can get a flight home straight from Rome for a good price, that would be even better. Getting around by train in Europe is by far the best way wherever it’s close and fast enough, so I’d focus on trains in the places I mentioned. I hope this helps and let me know if you have any other questions. -Roger

Yes, I meant London. Thank you for picking up on that. After reading though your site and many, many of these informative comments, I think I have figured out a basic itinerary and would love your feedback and suggestions!

-Fly into London London(3 days) -Eurostar Train to Paris Paris (3 days) -Train to Switzerland – unsure which train company Switzerland (3 days) -Train to Venice?? Venice (2 days) -Train to Florence – which train company? Is there a pass? Florence (2 days) -Train to Rome Rome (2 days) -Fly to Prague Prague (3 days) -Fly home out of Prague

Very interested to hear your feedback. I know you suggest 3 nights but I am ok with missing out on some things in Rome/Florence if needed. Would love train suggestions and if passes are best. NO idea on how the trains operate in Europe.

Thank you so much for your time!

This itinerary looks amazing. My only real suggestion would be to spend only one day in Venice and three days in Rome, or at least a day and a half in Venice rather than two, but you’ll enjoy it no matter what. The thing is that Venice is about the size of a theme park like Disneyland and from 9 AM until 5 PM it feels even more crowded than Disneyland. It’s absolutely amazing, but also easy to get tired of the crowds and you’ll do your best sightseeing in the mornings before the day-trippers come and in the evenings after they’ve left. And Rome is huge with a long list of really cool sights so with only one full sightseeing day you’ll miss quite a few of them. But again, you’ll enjoy it no matter how you divide your time.

In most of Europe including between France and Switzerland and Italy, there is just one rail company per country so just book whatever comes up. From Paris to Basel, Switzerland you’ll take the France national service and then change trains to a Swiss train for your ride to Interlaken or Lucern. Then from Switzerland you’ll take (probably) a Swiss train to Spiez or Brig and then change there for an Italian train to Venice. You’ll buy it just as one ticket and it’ll include all the legs required to get from one city to your final city, and usually come with seat reservations as well (except in Switzerland).

My favorite site for checking schedules all over Europe is the Trainline . But you can also check the official rail sites of each country involved and I’d definitely check those prices before booking anything. My article on buying European train tickets in advance is still pretty much up to date and it has links to the various national train companies.

It will be cheapest if you lock in your dates and buy all of your train tickets as early as possible, which will be around 3 months out in most cases. The tickets start off really cheap and go up in price as more seats are sold on each train, so earlier is always better. There are no rail passes that would be helpful on a trip like this, but that’s mostly because the tickets will be pretty cheap already, especially the ones within Italy.

Trains in Europe are really fun and shockingly easy once you get started. All the important signs will be in English as well as a local language. For most of them you can literally walk aboard just before it leaves and you are fine as long as you have a reserved seat, but the Eurostar works more like a flight with security and such so you have to be checked in at least 30 minutes in advance. Let me know if you have any other questions.

I won’t have time to update that other older article about trains vs planes vs buses, partly because these days there is a clear choice depending on which two cities you are going between. There are places in eastern Europe where there are advantages to each mode, but for the cities you’ll be doing the train is going to be the fastest, by far the most enjoyable, and probably the cheapest as well, at least once you factor in airport transportation costs. It’s going to be a great trip! -Roger

Thank you SO much for all of your help. Your in-depth website is an amazing resource! I get so lost in it and spend hours scouring your resources and links – it has everything anyone could need! And, the fact that you are also personally answering comments and offering personalized advice is mind blowing! Thank you for all that you do to inform us!

If you could suggest on a 14-15 day iterinary covering Athens, rome Milan paris London and Finland from New Delhi / Mumbai.

If you have 14 to 15 days I’d suggest choosing about 5 cities in total to visit. So your list should work out fairly well, although it depends on how much of Finland you’d hope to see. I’m guessing you must have a specific reason for wanting to go there? Finland normally isn’t very popular and honestly there isn’t much to see. Helsinki is, in my opinion, the least interesting of the Nordic capitals, although it’s pleasant enough and the country has some nice forests. If you are visiting relatives or something, that requires different planning of course.

It might be easiest to fly from Mumbai to London and then use that as a base. You could spend a few nights there and then fly to Helsinki and back after that or Helsinki to Paris for a few days. After Paris you could fly to Milan or Rome and then take a train to the other and then fly to Athens to finish your trip.

Milan actually isn’t a popular tourist city. It’s the home of most of Italy’s big banks and fashion brands, but neither of those are accessible to most tourists. Italy has amazing fashion shopping in Rome as well as Florence. Venice is also more popular. I hope this helps and I’m happy to help more if you have questions. -Roger

Comment* Planning first trip to Europe Want to do tour of England, Scotland, Wales and then to Paris for sites and Monet Gardens. Might take train to Brussels and Bruge. Then to Switzerland and home. Any suggestions what tour group to contact. Want slower pace trip…at least 3 weeks. Thank you.

I enjoy helping people plan independent trips, and I honestly don’t know much about booking all-inclusive tours like you are after. I’d imagine you’d have to do at least a few different tours to cover all the places you have in mind. The one outfit that I am familiar with is Rick Steves, who I am a huge fan of for his Europe travel guides and I know he has a big tour organization. I’d start with them and see if they have anything that fits what you are looking for. Best of luck. -Roger

Where to find Europe’s best wine regions

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Europe is known for excellent wine, with dozens of award-winning vineyards. Photo / Unsplash

France, Italy, and Spain form the epicentre of Europe’s great winemaking traditions, and they offer a remarkable diversity of styles to enjoy, writes Susan Gough Henly

You could spend a lifetime exploring the wine regions of Europe, which are without a doubt the world’s greatest. There’s really no better way to delve into the history and geography – indeed the very heart and soul of the continent. And wine always goes better with food. It certainly doesn’t hurt that these are also wonderful gourmet destinations as well.

FRANCE: L’art de vivre

Here are five standouts among the 17 main wine regions of France.

Bordeaux : Located in the southwest and dubbed the wine capital of the world, Bordeaux is France’s largest wine region, which surrounds the beautiful city of Bordeaux, the world’s largest Unesco-listed urban area. This is where you’ll find exquisite cabernet sauvignon/merlot red blends in the castle-dotted Medoc region on the left bank of the Gironde Estuary and in Pomerol and the pretty hill region of Saint-Emilion on the right bank as well as the famed Sauternes sweet white wines made from late-harvest botrytis semillon, sauvignon blanc and muscadelle. Blended white and red wines are also made in Graves and Entre Deux Mers.

Burgundy : Over in eastern France, Burgundy runs along the slopes of a mountain range between Dijon and Lyon with its most famous sub-regions being the Cote de Nuits and Cote de Beaune, Chablis and Macon. Here you’ll find tiny parcels of land cultivated with some of the world’s finest pinot noir and chardonnay grapes.

Champagne : Northeast of Paris lies the famed Champagne region encircling the historic towns of Reims and Epernay, home to the most famous sparkling wine on earth, which is made predominantly from chardonnay and pinot noir grape varieties.

Loire : Southeast of Paris, the undulating Loire wine region stretches along a 500km landscape between Sancerre and Nantes and offers a mind-blowing array of grape varieties and wine styles interspersed with grand chateaux and gorgeous gardens. You’ll discover sauvignon blanc in Sancerre, chenin blanc in Vouvray, romorantin in Cour-Cheverny, cabernet franc in Chinon and pinot noir and gamay as you move east.

Cotes du Rhone : Stretching from Lyon to the Rhone delta, the Cotes du Rhone is a mainly red wine growing region focusing on grenache, syrah and mourvedre blends that do well under the hardy Provencal sun. Some of its most iconic sub-regions include Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Gigondas, Côte-Rotie and Hermitage.

ITALY: La Dolce Vita

Here are four must-visits among the 20 wine regions of Italy.

Piedmont : Located in northwest Italy between the Alps and the Ligurian coast, Piedmont is one of Europe’s most beautiful winemaking areas with hilltop castles overlooking fog-shrouded valleys, vineyards tiered down hillsides and ancient chestnut forests framing historic villages. This is nebbiolo country, the black grape that produces the region’s famous barolo and barbaresco wines. Barbera and dolcetto are two other red varieties while arneis and cortese make white wines. Piedmont is also famous for its truffles.

Tuscany : Stretching along the Ligurian coast, the wine region of Tuscany is dotted across rolling hills surrounding the city of Florence. Some of its most famous sub-regions include Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino and Montepulciano. Sangiovese is the key red grape variety, however, in recent years. Super Tuscan wines are being made with sangiovese often blended with international varieties such as cabernet sauvignon and syrah.

Veneto : In northeast Italy, the Veneto wine region stretches from the Dolomite Mountains to the Adriatic Sea. This is sparkling prosecco country and it’s also the home of soave wine, made from the white garganega variety. There’s even been a revival of the dorona white grape variety on Mazzorbo Island in the Venetian lagoon. The Indigenous corvina and rondinella are the basis of the red wines of valpolicella and amarone, the latter made from air-dried resonated grapes.

Sicily : It is not only the largest island in the Mediterranean but also the largest wine growing region in Italy. Sicily is home to more than 65 indigenous grape varieties. The southeast of the island is famous for its beaches, Greek temples and medium-bodied red wines made from nero d’avola and frappato. The west is home to marsala fortified wine, while on the volcanic soils around Mount Etna in the northeast, red and white wines are made with nerello, mascalese and carricante.

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SPAIN: La Buena Vida

There are a whopping 69 diverse wine regions in Spain. Here are four of the most interesting to visit.

Rioja : Located along the Ebro River in north central Spain (two hours from Bilbao), Rioja is Spain’s most famous wine region and the home of big red wines with high tannins made from the tempranillo grape.

Galicia : The green coastal region of Galicia in northwest Spain with its fjord-like river estuaries carving through lush hillsides, is the home of crisp acidic albarino white wines in the Rias Baixas sub-region along the coast, full-bodied godello white wines in Valdeorras and aromatic red wines made with mencia grapes grown on vertiginous terraces above river gorges in Ribeira Sacra. This is also the seafood capital of Spain.

Jerez : In the province of Andalusia on the southwestern tip of Spain, Jerez is home to sherry, a fortified wine made from the palomino white grape variety grown on stark white albariza soil on a triangle of land between the towns of Jerez de la Frontera, Sanlucar de Barrameda and El Puerto de Santa Maria. This is the place to sample bone-dry pale fino and manzanilla sherry and dark oak-aged amontillado and oloroso in white-washed bodegas.

Catalonia : Stretching along the northern Mediterranean coast, Catalonia is home to Barcelona and Girona, seaside resorts and fabulous gastronomy. It’s also a multi-faceted wine growing region with several highlights. Check out the Penedès sub-region, renowned for sparkling cava made from macabeo, zarel-lo and parellada grape varieties, as well as the Priorat sub-region planted with carinena and grenache varieties that make dense, multi-layered red wines.

OTHER EUROPEAN GEMS

There are many more wine regions to visit elsewhere in Europe.

Explore the steeply terraced vineyards of the Duoro Valley in Portugal, renowned for port; the riesling vineyards of Mosel and Rhineland Pfalz in Germany; the Tokaj-Jegyalja region of Hungary, home to the world’s first ‘noble rot’ botrytis wines such as tokay; the Lavaux terraced vineyards between Lausanne and Montreux in Switzerland with views across Lake Geneva to the Alps; and finally the vineyards on the Greek island of Santorini where vines are wound into low crown-like baskets to protect the grapes from strong winds and allow them to soak up dew to make crisp white assyrtiko wines and vinsanto dessert wines.

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Latest Foreign Office travel advice for France, Spain, Turkey and Italy

T he Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), provides information and guidance about risks of travel to any of 226 nations and territories in a bid to help people make informed decisions and stay safe.

The Government department's updates can include things like security risks, passport and visa requirements, and health warnings, and it is important to be aware of the latest guidance.

Ahead of what is likely to be a very busy year for international travel, we have taken a look at all the latest travel advice for France, Spain, and other destinations that are popular with UK travellers.

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While there are no enforced covid requirements in France at the moment, Gov.UK guidance states: "You’re strongly recommended to wear a face mask in health settings. In some areas, people aged 6 and above may need to wear a face mask."

As with all EU countries, your passport must be issued less than 10 years before the date you enter the country - so you should check the "date of issue" - and be valid for at least three months after the day you plan to leave (check the "expiry date").

If your passport was issued before 1 October 2018, extra months may have been added to its expiry date.

On arrival in France you may need to show border control staff proof of where you intend to stay, for example a hotel booking, as well as proof of travel insurance, a return or onward ticket, and proof you have enough money for your whole stay.

You can travel to countries in the Schengen area, which France is part of, for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa.

You cannot take food items such as meat and dairy to France from the UK, though there are some medical exceptions which include certain amounts of powdered infant milk and infant food. You can find out more about this here.

The FCDO says terrorists are "very likely" to carry out attacks in France and advises UK travellers to be vigilant at all times. It adds that attacks could take place in areas such as shopping centres, entertainment establishments, on public transport, and at places of worship.

Foreign Office advice also warns there can be "frequent industrial action across France", which can lead to delays and disruption especially on public transport. It adds: "If you’re due to travel to or within France, monitor the media, check your operator’s advice and follow the advice of the authorities."

A further warning reads: "Thieves and pickpockets operate on the Paris underground, RER lines and at mainline stations" while people with a British driving licence who plan on driving while in France are reminded: "You may need a UK sticker to drive your car outside the UK.

"These have replaced GB stickers. Check the guidance on displaying number plates if you are driving outside the UK."

There are currently no covid rules for Spain, according to the FCDO, and as with France your passport must be issued less than 10 years before the date you enter the country, and be valid for at least three months after the day you plan to leave.

You can travel to countries in the Schengen area, which Spain is part of, for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. To stay longer, to work or study, for business travel or for other reasons, you need to meet the Spanish government’s entry requirements.

Border control staff may ask for proof you have enough money for your stay and confirmation of your accommodation - which may be a hotel booking, or a carta de invitation completed by your hosts.

People planning to travel between Spain and Gibraltar are warned over delays due to border checks, with FCDO advice adding: "There is no charge to enter or leave Gibraltar. You should not hand over money to anybody claiming there is a charge."

You cannot take food items such as meat and dairy to Spain from the UK, though there are some medical exceptions which include certain amounts of powdered infant milk and infant food. You can find out more about this here.

The FCDO says terrorists are "likely" to carry out attacks in Spain and advises UK travellers to "stay aware of your surroundings" at all times. Of Spain's "political situation", the government department adds: "Demonstrations, political gatherings or marches can take place with little or no warning, particularly in cities. Follow the advice of police and local authorities.

"While most demonstrations are peaceful, there is a risk of unrest or violence. If you’re in and around areas where demonstrations are taking place, be aware of what is happening around you and move away if there are signs of disorder."

Travellers are also advised to protect their belongings and "be alert to street crime" although "most visits to Spain are trouble-free". Advice states: "Take care of your passports, money and personal belongings" and suggests people keep a photocopy or scanned copy of their passports in a safe place.

When it comes to alcohol, UK travellers are reminded: "You cannot drink alcohol in the street in some areas of Spain. You can be given an on-the-spot fine.

"There are strict controls on drinking and sexual activity in public places, including on beaches."

Local laws limit the sale and availability of alcohol in areas of some resorts on the islands of Mallorca and Ibiza, prohibiting drink promotions such as happy hours, open bars, and off licence sales between 9.30pm and 8am.

Hotels and other establishments are obliged to evict customers who behave dangerously on balconies. Both the customer and the establishment can be fined for such behaviour.

People planning on driving while in Spain are reminded: "You may need a UK sticker to drive your car outside the UK. These have replaced GB stickers. Check the guidance on displaying number plates if you are driving outside the UK."

The FCDO advises against travel within 10km of Turkey's border with Syria, and against all but essential travel to Sirnak and Hakkari province.

If you are visiting Turkey, your passport must be valid for at least 150 days from the date you arrive and have a full blank page for entry and exit stamps. You only need a visa if you plan on staying longer than 90 days in any 180-day period.

The FCDO says terrorists are "very likely" to carry out attacks in Turkey and advises UK travellers to be vigilant at all times. It adds that attacks could take place in areas such as shopping centres, entertainment establishments, on public transport, and at places of worship.

Of the nation's "political situation", it adds: "Occasional demonstrations can occur in cities and may become violent. Police have used tear gas and water cannon to disperse protests.

"Occasional demonstrations can occur in cities and may become violent. Police have used tear gas and water cannon to disperse protests."

It also warns that "street robbery and pick-pocketing are common in the major tourist areas of Istanbul", and advises people always make sure their personal items are secure.

The FCDO says that 42 cases of sexual assault were reported to British consular staff in Turkey in 2023, adding: "Most sexual assault cases reported to British consular staff in Turkey have happened during summer holidays in coastal tourist areas.

"Many were committed at night by someone the victim met during the day, including hotel workers. There have also been sexual attacks on minors visiting toilet facilities alone. Be extra vigilant in these situations."

A stray dog warning is listed for Turkey, as packs "congregate and can be aggressive". People are advised to take care and not to approach any dogs.

Guidance adds: "If you’re bitten, get medical advice immediately. Rabies and other animal borne diseases are present in Turkey."

You must carry a green card if you plan to drive while in Turkey. More information can be found here.

There are no covid requirements for Italy however if you are visiting a hospital intensive care ward or a car home, you must wear a FFP2 mask.

As with travel to all other EU nations, your passport must be issued less than 10 years before the date you enter the country, and be valid for at least three months after the day you plan to leave.

You can travel to countries in the Schengen area, which Italy is part of, for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. To stay longer, to work or study, for business travel or for other reasons, you need to meet the Italian government’s entry requirements.

Border control staff may ask for proof you have enough money for your stay and confirmation of your accommodation, as well as proof of travel insurance and a return or onward ticket.

You cannot take food items such as meat and dairy to Italy from the UK, though there are some medical exceptions which include certain amounts of powdered infant milk and infant food. You can find out more about this here.

The FCDO says terror attacks in Italy "cannot be ruled out" and advises UK travellers to "remain vigilant at all times." Of Italy's "political situation", the government department adds: "Demonstrations may occur with little or no warning in cities. Avoid any protests, political gatherings, or marches."

People are advised that crime levels are "generally low" but that petty crime such as bag snatching and pickpocketing is more common in big cities such as Rome and Milan.

It adds: "Robberies from parked cars have been reported, in Rome, particularly the Colosseum area, Ostia, Milan and Pisa. Coastal areas and towns have been targeted as well as motorway service stations. Always lock your vehicle, never leave valuables in cars and avoid leaving luggage in cars for any length of time."

The government department also warns travellers that some Italian towns and cities have specific local laws. These may see you fined for actions such as dropping litter, sitting on monument steps, and eating or drinking next to churches or other historic buildings.

Gov.uk advice adds: "It’s also an offence to enter or bathe in public fountains in many towns and cities, including Florence and Rome. A fine of up to 10,000 euros can be imposed for urinating in a public place."

You must also not take any disposable plastic items, such as bags, cups or places, onto the island of Capri. If you are caught doing so you can be fined up to 500 euros.

People should also only use licensed taxi drivers, the FCDO has said, and that these "should be called or taken from an official rank rather than hailed in the street".

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