Barcelona 11-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrive at Barcelona

Arrive at Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN), clear customs, and transfer to your hotel.

Settle in and prepare for your Spanish adventure.

Explore Gothic Quarter

Wander through the narrow, winding streets of the historic Gothic Quarter, discovering hidden plazas, medieval buildings, and Barcelona Cathedral.

Wear comfortable shoes. Many small shops and cafes line the streets.

Barcelona Cathedral Visit

Admire the stunning architecture of the Barcelona Cathedral, dedicated to Saint Eulalia.

Check opening hours for visitors, especially on Sundays. Dress code may apply (shoulders and knees covered).

Dinner in El Born

Enjoy a traditional Catalan dinner in the trendy El Born neighborhood, known for its lively atmosphere and excellent restaurants.

Try some local specialties like 'pa amb tomàquet' or 'fideuà'.

Sagrada Familia Visit

Experience Antoni Gaudí's unfinished masterpiece, the Sagrada Familia Basilica, with its breathtaking facades and intricate interior.

Book tickets well in advance online to secure your entry time and avoid long queues. Consider an audio guide for a richer experience.

Explore Park Güell

Discover another one of Gaudí's fantastical creations, Park Güell, offering unique architecture, vibrant mosaics, and panoramic city views.

The monumental zone requires a ticket. Book online in advance as slots fill up quickly. Wear comfortable shoes as there are hills.

Lunch in Gràcia

Enjoy a leisurely lunch in the charming Gràcia neighborhood, near Park Güell, known for its independent boutiques and lively squares.

Passeig de Gràcia Walk

Stroll down Passeig de Gràcia, Barcelona's elegant boulevard, admiring more Modernista architecture including Casa Batlló and Casa Milà (La Pedrera) from the exterior.

Consider going inside Casa Batlló or Casa Milà if time permits and you're interested in more Gaudi interiors (booking required and can be expensive).

Authentic Tapas Dinner

Indulge in a traditional tapas dinner, sampling a variety of small plates at a local tapas bar.

Many tapas bars are busy, especially in the evening. Try to visit a few different places for a true tapas experience.

Montjuïc Castle & Views

Take the Montjuïc Cable Car up to Montjuïc Castle for panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea.

Explore the castle's history.

MNAC (National Art Museum)

Visit the Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya (MNAC), housed in the majestic Palau Nacional, showcasing Catalan art from Romanesque to early 20th century.

Closed on Mondays. Check for temporary exhibitions. Located near the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc.

Lunch in Poble Sec

Descend from Montjuïc and have lunch in the Poble Sec neighborhood, known for its authentic local eateries.

Barceloneta Beach Walk

Enjoy a refreshing walk along Barceloneta Beach, taking in the sea breeze and views of the Mediterranean.

Even in February, a walk along the beach is pleasant. You might see locals exercising or enjoying the sun.

Seafood Dinner by Port

Savor fresh seafood at a restaurant near Port Olímpic or Barceloneta, enjoying the evening ambiance by the water.

La Boqueria Market

Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells of La Boqueria Market, Barcelona's most famous public market.

Enjoy fresh juices or small bites.

A great spot for photos and trying local produce. Can be very crowded, especially later in the day.

Catalan Cooking Class

Learn to prepare traditional Spanish and Catalan dishes in a hands-on cooking class, culminating in enjoying your creations for lunch.

Look for classes that include a market visit or focus on specific regional dishes like paella or tapas.

El Born Neighborhood Exploration

Revisit El Born or discover new corners, browsing boutique shops, art galleries, and enjoying the bohemian atmosphere.

Consider visiting the Picasso Museum if time and interest allow (booking recommended).

Flamenco Show (Optional)

Experience the passion and energy of a live flamenco performance, a quintessential Spanish art form.

Book tickets in advance, especially for popular venues. Some shows include a drink or dinner.

Farewell Barcelona Dinner

Enjoy a final dinner in Barcelona, perhaps revisiting a favorite spot or trying a new recommendation.

Morning Leisure & Checkout

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast, pack your belongings, and check out from your hotel.

You might have time for some last-minute souvenir shopping or a final stroll.

Travel from Barcelona to Zurich

Take a flight from Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN) to Zurich Airport (ZRH).

This includes travel to/from airports, check-in, flight time, and security.

Arrive & Settle in Zurich

Arrive at Zurich Airport (ZRH), transfer to your accommodation, and check in.

Take some time to freshen up after your travel.

Dinner in Zurich Old Town

Enjoy your first Swiss dinner in Zurich, perhaps in the charming Niederdorf (Old Town) area, experiencing local cuisine.

Zurich can be more expensive than Barcelona. Look for traditional Swiss dishes like Zürcher Geschnetzeltes.

Travel from Barcelona to Zurich

Fly from Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN) to Zurich Airport (ZRH).

Transfer to your hotel and check in.

Consider taking a train or tram from Zurich Airport directly to Zurich Hauptbahnhof (main station), which is central to most hotels.

Hotel Check-in

Check into your accommodation and freshen up after your journey.

Stroll along Bahnhofstrasse

Walk down Zurich's famous shopping street, home to luxury brands, boutiques, and Swiss banks.

Enjoy the elegant atmosphere.

Fraumünster Church

Visit the Fraumünster Church, known for its stunning stained glass windows by Marc Chagall and Augusto Giacometti.

Check opening hours, as they might be shorter in winter. Photography of the windows may be restricted.

Dinner in Old Town

Enjoy a traditional Swiss dinner in one of the charming restaurants in Zurich's historic Old Town (Altstadt).

Grossmünster Church & Tower

Explore the iconic twin-towered Grossmünster, a Romanesque Protestant church.

Climb the Karlsturm tower for panoramic views of Zurich.

The climb to the tower involves many steps but offers rewarding views. Tower opening hours may vary seasonally.

Lindenhof Hill

Visit Lindenhof Hill, a tranquil public park offering beautiful views over the Limmat River, the Old Town, and the Grossmünster.

A perfect spot for photos and a moment of relaxation.

Lunch by Limmatquai

Enjoy a casual lunch at a cafe or restaurant along Limmatquai, offering pleasant views of the river.

Best Of Switzerland City Tour

Join a comprehensive tour of Zurich's highlights.

As a leading tour operator with over 20 years of experience, they offer excursions to popular attractions.

Dinner near Lake Zurich

Dine at a restaurant with views or close proximity to Lake Zurich, enjoying the evening ambiance.

Lake Zurich Boat Trip

Enjoy a scenic boat trip on Lake Zurich, offering stunning views of the city, surrounding hills, and distant Alps.

Even in winter, short cruises operate, weather permitting.

Check winter schedules for boat tours as they might be less frequent. Dress warmly.

Lunch in Seefeld

Have lunch in the elegant Seefeld district, located along the eastern shore of Lake Zurich.

Swiss National Museum

Delve into Switzerland's cultural history, from prehistoric times to the present, housed in a magnificent historic building.

Free admission with a Swiss Travel Pass, otherwise entry fee applies.

Relax at Hotel

Enjoy some downtime at your hotel before dinner, or explore nearby areas at your leisure.

Dinner in Niederdorf

Experience the vibrant evening atmosphere of Niederdorf in the Old Town, offering diverse dining options from traditional to international cuisine.

Explore Zurich West (Kreis 5)

Discover Zurich's former industrial quarter, now a trendy district with contemporary architecture, design shops, and a vibrant arts scene.

Highlights include the Prime Tower and Viadukt arches.

Lunch in Zurich West

Enjoy lunch at one of the many hip restaurants or cafes in the trendy Zurich West district.

Kunsthaus Zurich (Art Museum)

Visit the Kunsthaus Zurich, one of Switzerland's most important art museums, featuring significant collections from the Middle Ages to contemporary art, including famous works by Monet and Picasso.

Mondays typically have shorter hours or closures for many museums. Kunsthaus Zurich is usually closed on Mondays, but a flexible schedule allows it to be moved if needed. As this is a Monday, I will assume it's open, but it's crucial to verify. *Self-correction: Kunsthaus is typically closed on Mondays. I will swap this with something else, or move it to Sunday if needed. Let's adjust to something that is typically open.* Instead of Kunsthaus, I'll recommend FIFA World Football Museum, which is usually open on Mondays.

FIFA World Football Museum

Explore the fascinating world of football history, interactive exhibits, and the FIFA World Cup Trophy.

A great experience for sports fans and families alike.

This museum is typically open on Mondays, unlike some art museums. Check for special exhibits.

Aperitif by the River

Enjoy a traditional Swiss 'Aperitif' (drinks and snacks) at a bar or cafe overlooking the Limmat River.

Traditional Swiss Fondue

Indulge in a classic Swiss cheese fondue experience for dinner, a must-try culinary delight.

Uetliberg Mountain Viewpoint

Take a short train ride up Uetliberg, Zurich's 'local mountain,' for breathtaking panoramic views of the city, Lake Zurich, and the Alps.

Enjoy a walk on the summit.

The train departs from Zurich Main Station. Dress warmly as it can be colder at the summit. The hike from the train station to the summit viewpoint is short and easy.

Lunch in Central Zurich

Enjoy a final Swiss lunch in the city center before heading back to prepare for your next leg of the journey.

Last-Minute Souvenir Shopping

Grab any last-minute souvenirs or Swiss chocolates from shops around Bahnhofstrasse or the Old Town.

Relax & Pack

Return to your hotel to relax and pack your luggage, preparing for your departure to Paris tomorrow.

Farewell Dinner

Enjoy a pleasant farewell dinner in Zurich, reflecting on your experiences in Switzerland.

Eiffel Tower Photo Stop

Start your final day with a visit to the iconic Eiffel Tower.

Enjoy panoramic views from Champ de Mars and capture some memorable photos without ascending the tower to save time for departure.

Access to Champ de Mars is free. Consider purchasing a souvenir from one of the vendors. Nearest Metro: Bir-Hakeim, Trocadéro, École Militaire.

Stroll along Champs-Élysées

Take a leisurely walk down the famous Avenue des Champs-Élysées, admiring the luxury boutiques and Parisian architecture.

Conclude at the Arc de Triomphe for an exterior view.

The Arc de Triomphe can be accessed via an underground passage from the Champs-Élysées. It's free to view from outside.

Authentic Parisian Lunch

Enjoy a final French meal at a local bistro or café near the Champs-Élysées.

Savor classic dishes like a Croque Monsieur, French onion soup, or a fresh salad.

Many restaurants offer a 'formule' (set menu) for lunch, which can be a good value. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory.

Last Minute Souvenir Shopping

Grab any last-minute gifts or souvenirs from one of the charming shops.

Parisian pharmacies are also great for unique beauty products.

Look for unique items in smaller boutiques rather than large tourist traps. Galleries Lafayette or Printemps are also options for a more upscale experience.

Travel to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG)

Allow ample time to travel from central Paris to Charles de Gaulle Airport for your international departure.

Options include RER B train, Roissybus, or a taxi/ride-share.

The RER B train is generally the fastest and most cost-effective option, taking about 30-45 minutes from Gare du Nord. Roissybus is a direct coach service. Taxis can be quicker but more expensive. Confirm your terminal in advance.