Barcelona 20-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrive in Barcelona

Arrive at Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN).

Proceed through customs and transfer to your accommodation. Settle in and refresh after your journey.

Explore Gothic Quarter

Wander through the narrow, winding streets of the historic Barri Gòtic.

Discover hidden plazas, Roman ruins, and architectural gems like the Barcelona Cathedral.

Wear comfortable shoes. Many small shops and cafes to explore. Free entry to Barcelona Cathedral's cloister during certain hours.

Tapas Dinner & Stroll

Enjoy a traditional Spanish tapas dinner in a local restaurant within the Gothic Quarter or El Born, followed by an evening stroll to soak in the atmosphere.

Sagrada Familia Visit

Visit Antoni Gaudi's unfinished masterpiece, the Sagrada Familia.

Marvel at its intricate facades and stunning interior stained glass. Book your tickets in advance to avoid long queues.

Book tickets online directly on the official website. Consider an audio guide for a deeper understanding.

Lunch in Eixample

Enjoy lunch in the Eixample district, near Sagrada Familia, known for its beautiful grid-like streets and wide range of eateries.

Park Güell Exploration

Explore another of Gaudi's iconic works, Park Güell.

Enjoy panoramic views of the city, colorful mosaic art, and unique architectural features. Pre-book your entry time.

Book tickets online well in advance, especially for afternoon slots. The park involves some uphill walking.

Passeig de Gràcia Walk

Stroll down Passeig de Gràcia, Barcelona's elegant boulevard.

Admire the exteriors of two more Gaudi masterpieces: Casa Batlló and Casa Milà (La Pedrera), as well as other Modernista buildings.

Catalan Dinner

Savor authentic Catalan cuisine at a restaurant in the Eixample or Gràcia neighborhood.

Montjuïc Hill & Castle

Take the Montjuïc cable car up to Montjuïc Castle for panoramic views of the city and harbor.

Explore the castle grounds and enjoy the green spaces.

Purchase a return ticket for the cable car. The castle itself has an entry fee.

Lunch near Montjuïc

Have lunch near Montjuïc, perhaps at Poble Espanyol which offers a variety of dining options.

Relax at Barceloneta Beach

Head down to Barceloneta Beach.

Enjoy a relaxing walk along the promenade, soak up the sun, or have a refreshing drink at a chiringuito (beach bar).

Dinner in El Born

Explore the trendy El Born neighborhood and enjoy dinner at one of its many stylish restaurants, perhaps trying some seafood or traditional Catalan dishes.

La Boqueria Market

Immerse yourself in the vibrant sights, sounds, and smells of La Boqueria Market on La Rambla.

Sample fresh juices, fruits, and local delicacies.

Go early to avoid the biggest crowds. Be mindful of pickpockets in crowded areas.

Stroll down La Rambla

Walk the length of La Rambla, from Plaça Catalunya to the Columbus Monument by the harbor.

Enjoy the street performers and lively atmosphere.

Lunch in Gothic Quarter

Find a cozy spot for lunch in the Gothic Quarter after your stroll along La Rambla.

Picasso Museum Visit

Explore the Picasso Museum, which houses one of the most extensive collections of artworks by the 20th-century Spanish artist Pablo Picasso.

The museum is particularly notable for its complete series of works from his early years.

Book tickets online in advance to guarantee entry and skip queues.

Evening Flamenco Show (Optional)

Experience the passion of a traditional flamenco show in one of Barcelona's venues.

Many shows offer a drink or dinner option.

Booking advised, especially for popular tablaos. Prices vary depending on inclusions.

Arc de Triomf & Parc de la Ciutadella

Visit Barcelona's Arc de Triomf, then stroll through the beautiful Parc de la Ciutadella, home to the Cascada Monumental (waterfall), the Parliament of Catalonia, and the city zoo.

Free Time / Souvenir Shopping

Enjoy some free time for last-minute souvenir shopping, revisit a favorite spot, or relax at a café.

Farewell Barcelona Lunch

Enjoy a final lunch in Barcelona, perhaps revisiting a favorite eatery or trying a new spot.

Prepare for Next Destination

Spend the afternoon packing and preparing for your journey to Valencia or Madrid tomorrow.

Confirm your train/flight details.

High-Speed Train to Valencia

Board a high-speed train from Barcelona Sants to Valencia Joaquín Sorolla station, enjoying scenic views along the way.

Travel is approximately 3 hours.

Hotel Check-in & Lunch

Check into your accommodation in Valencia and have lunch at a local restaurant to refuel after your journey.

Look for a menú del día (daily menu) for a good value lunch.

City of Arts and Sciences

Explore the stunning, futuristic architecture of the City of Arts and Sciences.

You can admire the exterior, visit the Oceanogràfic (Europe's largest aquarium), or the Príncipe Felipe Science Museum.

Consider purchasing tickets online if you plan to enter any of the buildings. Walking around the complex is free.

Dinner in Ruzafa

Enjoy dinner in the trendy Ruzafa neighborhood, known for its vibrant atmosphere, boutique shops, and diverse restaurants.

Try some traditional Valencian dishes or explore the international cuisine options.

Valencia Cathedral & El Miguelete

Visit the Valencia Cathedral, home to what is claimed to be the Holy Grail.

Climb El Miguelete bell tower for panoramic views of the city.

Entry fee for the Cathedral and climbing the tower are separate.

Explore Barrio del Carmen

Wander through the narrow, winding streets of El Carmen, Valencia's oldest neighborhood, filled with street art, historic buildings, and charming squares.

Discover hidden cafes and artisan shops.

Authentic Valencian Paella

Indulge in an authentic Valencian paella for lunch, a dish that originated in this region.

Many restaurants offer it, especially around the old town.

True Valencian paella often features rabbit, chicken, and green beans, not seafood.

Central Market & Silk Exchange

Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Valencia's Central Market, one of Europe's oldest and most beautiful food markets.

Afterward, visit the nearby Silk Exchange (La Lonja de la Seda), a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The market is a great place to sample local produce and snacks. La Lonja is a stunning example of Gothic civil architecture.

Stroll in Turia Gardens

Enjoy a leisurely walk or rent a bike in the Turia Gardens, a former riverbed transformed into a magnificent urban park stretching through the city.

A perfect spot for relaxation and people-watching.

Evening Tapas in Valencia

Experience Spanish evening culture with a tapas crawl, sampling small plates and local wines or beers.

Relaxed Morning in Valencia

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast, revisit a favorite spot, or explore a neighborhood you haven't seen yet.

Perhaps a visit to the Fine Arts Museum of Valencia if time permits.

Lunch Before Departure

Have a final Valencian lunch before heading to the train station.

High-Speed Train to Madrid

Take a comfortable high-speed train from Valencia Joaquín Sorolla to Madrid Atocha station.

The journey is approximately 1 hour 50 minutes.

Hotel Check-in & Settle In

Check into your accommodation in Madrid.

Take some time to settle in and refresh.

Evening Stroll: Puerta del Sol & Plaza Mayor

Take an evening walk through Madrid's iconic central squares.

Start at Puerta del Sol, the heart of Spain, and then head to the historic Plaza Mayor.

Enjoy the vibrant evening atmosphere and street performers.

Dinner in Madrid

Enjoy dinner at a traditional Spanish restaurant in the bustling city center.

Royal Palace of Madrid

Explore the magnificent Royal Palace, the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family (though primarily used for state ceremonies).

Visit the opulent rooms, armory, and gardens.

Book tickets online in advance to avoid long queues, especially on Mondays. Check for free entry hours if interested.

Lunch near Royal Palace

Enjoy a traditional Spanish lunch in the area surrounding the Royal Palace and Plaza de Oriente.

Prado Museum Visit

Immerse yourself in Spanish art history at the Museo del Prado, home to masterpieces by Goya, Velázquez, El Greco, and more.

Prioritize the works you wish to see, as the museum is vast. Book tickets online. Free entry often available in the last two hours.

Tapas Tour in La Latina

Experience a classic Madrid evening with a tapas crawl in the historic La Latina neighborhood, known for its lively bars and traditional eateries.

Jump from bar to bar, trying different tapas and drinks (e.g., vermouth, beer, wine).

Morning in Retiro Park

Enjoy a relaxing morning stroll through the beautiful Retiro Park.

Rent a rowboat on the lake, visit the Crystal Palace, and admire the statues and gardens.

The park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a perfect urban oasis.

Lunch near Retiro Park

Have lunch at a cafe or restaurant near Retiro Park, perhaps in the bustling area around Atocha station.

Reina Sofía Museum

Visit the Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía, Spain's national museum of 20th-century art.

Its most famous work is Picasso's 'Guernica'.

Book tickets online. Free entry often available in the late afternoon/evening. Check current hours.

Dinner in Chueca/Malasaña

Explore the trendy Chueca or Malasaña neighborhoods for dinner, known for their diverse culinary scenes, vibrant nightlife, and welcoming atmosphere.

Arrive in Lisbon

Travel from Madrid to Lisbon by high-speed train or flight.

Check into your accommodation and settle in.

Explore Alfama District

Wander through the narrow, winding streets of Alfama, Lisbon's oldest district.

Discover hidden alleys, charming squares, and enjoy views from various miradouros (viewpoints).

Wear comfortable shoes as the streets are steep and cobbled. Don't miss the Miradouro de Santa Luzia for panoramic views.

Visit Lisbon Cathedral

Visit the historic Sé de Lisboa (Lisbon Cathedral), a beautiful Romanesque cathedral and one of the city's oldest monuments.

Traditional Fado Dinner

Experience an authentic Portuguese Fado show with dinner in a traditional restaurant in Alfama.

Fado is a soulful and melancholic music genre unique to Portugal.

Book in advance, especially for popular Fado houses. Many venues have a fixed menu with the show.

Jerónimos Monastery

Visit the magnificent Jerónimos Monastery in Belém, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a prime example of Manueline architecture.

Explore its church and cloisters.

Arrive early to avoid long queues. The church entrance is free, but there's a fee for the cloister.

Taste Pasteis de Belém

Indulge in the famous Pastel de Nata at its original birthplace, Pastéis de Belém.

These custard tarts are a must-try Portuguese delicacy.

Expect a queue, but it moves quickly. Enjoy them warm with cinnamon and powdered sugar.

Belém Tower Visit

Explore the iconic Belém Tower (Torre de Belém), another UNESCO site, which served as a fortress and a starting point for many Portuguese voyages of discovery.

Monument to the Discoveries

Admire the Padrão dos Descobrimentos, a grand monument celebrating Portugal's Age of Discovery. You can ascend to the top for views over Belém and the Tagus River.

Dinner in Chiado

Enjoy dinner in the elegant Chiado district, known for its theatres, historic cafes, and sophisticated restaurants.

Chiado offers a wide range of dining options, from traditional Portuguese to international cuisine.

Rossio Square & Baixa

Start your day exploring Rossio Square, one of Lisbon's main squares, and stroll through the grid-patterned streets of the Baixa district, rebuilt after the 1755 earthquake.

Admire the elegant architecture and bustling atmosphere.

Santa Justa Lift

Ride the iconic Santa Justa Lift for panoramic views of Lisbon, connecting the lower Baixa district with the higher Chiado neighborhood.

There can be long queues; consider purchasing a 24-hour public transport ticket (Viva Viagem card) which covers the lift.

Carmo Convent Ruins

Visit the hauntingly beautiful ruins of the Carmo Convent, destroyed in the 1755 earthquake.

It now houses an archaeological museum.

Explore Bairro Alto

Wander through the charming, bohemian streets of Bairro Alto, famous for its nightlife but also pleasant to explore during the day with its colorful buildings and local shops.

Discover street art and unique boutiques.

Miradouro de São Pedro

Enjoy breathtaking views of São Jorge Castle and the Baixa district from the Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara.

Dinner in Bairro Alto

Have dinner in Bairro Alto, where you can find a variety of restaurants catering to different tastes.

Travel to Sintra

Take a morning train from Rossio Station in Lisbon to Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its romantic 19th-century architecture.

Pena Palace & Park

Explore the vibrant and fairytale-like Pena Palace, perched atop a hill.

Wander through its colorful rooms and the surrounding romantic park.

Book tickets online in advance, especially for timed entry. Use local bus 434 from Sintra station to reach the palace.

Lunch in Sintra Village

Enjoy lunch in Sintra's historic town center, choosing from local cafes or restaurants.

Quinta da Regaleira

Discover the mystical Quinta da Regaleira estate, famous for its Initiation Well, grottoes, lakes, and elaborate gardens.

Allow plenty of time to explore the intricate grounds. Wear comfortable shoes.

Return to Lisbon

Take the train back to Lisbon from Sintra after a full day of exploration.

Relaxed Dinner

Enjoy a relaxed dinner near your hotel or in a neighborhood you've enjoyed, reflecting on your Sintra adventures.

Explore LX Factory

Visit LX Factory, a trendy industrial area under the 25 de Abril Bridge, transformed into a hub of shops, restaurants, cafes, and art studios.

Perfect for unique souvenirs and exploring local creativity.

Take Tram 15E or a taxi/ride-share to get there. Enjoy brunch or coffee at one of the many hip establishments.

Last-minute Shopping/Free Time

Spend your afternoon doing some last-minute souvenir shopping in Baixa or Chiado, or revisiting a favorite spot in the city.

Farewell Dinner in Lisbon

Enjoy a final dinner in Lisbon, perhaps trying a restaurant you've heard good things about or revisiting a favorite from your trip.

Prepare for Departure

Pack and prepare for your departure to Dublin/London tomorrow, concluding your time in Lisbon.

Travel to Dublin

Fly from Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS) to Dublin Airport (DUB).

Enjoy scenic views as you transition from Portugal to Ireland.

Hotel Check-in

Check into your accommodation in Dublin and settle in.

Take some time to freshen up before exploring the city.

Dublin Castle Exploration

Visit Dublin Castle, a complex of buildings that has served as a Viking settlement, a medieval fortress, and a British administrative headquarters.

Explore its grounds, State Apartments, and Chapel Royal.

Entrance fees apply for some parts of the castle. Check opening times, especially on Mondays.

Dinner & Pub Experience

Enjoy a traditional Irish dinner in the lively Temple Bar area, followed by experiencing the famous pub culture with live music.

Many pubs offer traditional Irish stews, fish and chips, and, of course, a pint of Guinness. The area can be very busy, especially on a Monday evening.

Guinness Storehouse Tour

Discover the history and brewing process of Ireland's most famous stout.

The tour concludes with a complimentary pint at the Gravity Bar, offering panoramic views of Dublin.

Book tickets online in advance to secure your preferred time slot and avoid queues.

St. Patrick's Cathedral

Visit Ireland's National Cathedral, known for its stunning architecture and historical significance, including its connection to Jonathan Swift.

Trinity College & Book of Kells

Explore the historic campus of Trinity College Dublin, and visit the Old Library to see the magnificent Book of Kells, an illuminated manuscript.

Booking tickets for the Book of Kells online in advance is highly recommended as slots sell out quickly.

Dinner near Grafton Street

Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants around Grafton Street, known for its upscale shops and lively atmosphere.

Travel to London

Fly from Dublin Airport (DUB) to London.

London has several airports (Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton), so check your booking for specifics.

Hotel Check-in

Check into your accommodation in London and settle in.

London is vast, so choose a hotel with good transport links.

Explore Covent Garden

Wander through the vibrant Covent Garden area, known for its street performers, unique shops, and the Royal Opera House. Enjoy the bustling atmosphere.

West End Show (Optional)

Experience London's world-renowned theatre scene with a West End musical or play.

Book tickets well in advance for popular shows. Check for last-minute deals at Leicester Square ticket booths.

Tower of London

Explore this historic castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its role in British history, the Crown Jewels, and the Yeoman Warder tours.

Arrive early to avoid large crowds, especially for the Crown Jewels. Consider a Yeoman Warder tour for fascinating historical insights.

Tower Bridge Exhibition

Walk across the iconic Tower Bridge, visit the exhibition inside to learn about its history, and enjoy panoramic views from the high-level walkways, including the glass floor.

Included with your Tower of London ticket if purchased as a combo, or separately. Check lift times if you wish to see it open.

British Museum

Immerse yourself in world history and culture at the British Museum, home to a vast collection including the Rosetta Stone, Egyptian mummies, and the Elgin Marbles.

Entry is free, but special exhibitions may have a fee. Plan which galleries you want to see as it's impossible to see everything in one visit.

Dinner in Soho

Enjoy dinner in the lively Soho district, offering a wide array of international cuisine, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants.

Buckingham Palace & St. James's Park

Visit the iconic residence of the Queen.

If timing allows (check schedule), witness the Changing of the Guard. Afterwards, stroll through the beautiful St. James's Park.

Changing of the Guard usually happens on specific days (check schedule) and can attract large crowds. Exterior viewing is free. State Room tours are seasonal and require tickets.

Westminster Abbey (Exterior)

Walk past Westminster Abbey, a magnificent Gothic church and the traditional place of coronation and burial for British monarchs.

See the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben nearby.

You can opt to tour the interior if time allows (requires tickets and 1.5-2 hours).

Last-minute Shopping & Souvenirs

Grab any last-minute souvenirs or gifts in areas like Oxford Street, Regent Street, or smaller independent shops.

Departure Preparations

Return to your hotel to finish packing and organize for your journey home tomorrow.

Consider an early dinner near your hotel.