Madrid and Barcelona - 18 Days Itinerary

Depart Porto Alegre

Begin your journey with a flight from Salgado Filho International Airport (POA) to Madrid, Spain.

Ensure you arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before your international flight. Confirm baggage allowance with your airline.

Arrive in Madrid

Arrive at Madrid-Barajas Adolfo Suárez Airport (MAD).

Proceed through customs and transfer to your accommodation. Check-in and freshen up.

Consider pre-booking an airport transfer or use public transport (metro, commuter train) for convenience.

Traditional Spanish Lunch

Enjoy a typical Spanish lunch near your hotel or in the city center.

Try some tapas or a Menu del Día.

Royal Palace of Madrid

Explore the lavish Royal Palace of Madrid, the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family, rich in history and opulent rooms.

Book tickets online in advance to save time. Rated 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor. Also listed on Google Places with 4.7/5.

Almudena Cathedral

Visit the Catedral de Santa María la Real de la Almudena, located adjacent to the Royal Palace.

Admire its impressive architecture and interior.

Entrance to the cathedral is generally free, but there may be a small charge for the museum/dome. Rated 4.6/5 on Google Places.

Dinner in La Latina

Head to the charming La Latina neighborhood for dinner, known for its lively atmosphere and traditional taverns.

Hotel Breakfast

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel or a local cafe.

Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum

Visit the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum, home to a diverse collection spanning eight centuries of European art.

Part of Madrid's 'Golden Triangle of Art'. Book tickets online to avoid queues. Rated 4.7/5 on Google Places.

Lunch near Prado

Have lunch in the area around the art museums.

Reina Sofía Museum

Explore the Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía, Madrid’s national museum of 20th-century art, featuring Picasso's Guernica.

Another essential part of the 'Golden Triangle of Art'. Rated 4.5/5 on Google Places. Free admission on certain evenings.

Retiro Park Stroll

Enjoy a leisurely walk through the beautiful Retiro Park, a vast and tranquil green space in the heart of Madrid.

Rent a rowboat on the lake or visit the Crystal Palace within the park. Free entry.

Dinner & Flamenco Show

Experience a traditional Spanish dinner followed by an authentic Flamenco show.

Book in advance as popular shows sell out quickly.

Hotel Breakfast

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel or a local cafe.

Royal Basilica of Saint Francis the Great

Visit the Royal Basilica of Saint Francis the Great, known for its impressive dome and Goya frescoes.

A beautiful and often less crowded alternative to more famous sites. Rated 4.7/5 on Google Places.

Explore El Rastro Area

Wander through the streets of the El Rastro area, especially lively on Sundays for its famous flea market, but charming on weekdays too.

Enjoy the historic ambiance even if it's not market day. Look for unique shops and cafes.

Farewell Lunch in Madrid

Enjoy a final Spanish lunch before departing for Barcelona.

Travel to Barcelona (Train)

Head to Atocha train station for your high-speed train to Barcelona.

Enjoy the scenic journey.

Ensure you arrive at least 30 minutes before departure. High-speed AVE trains offer comfort and speed.

Arrive & Check into Barcelona Hotel

Arrive at Barcelona Sants station, transfer to your hotel, and check in.

Unpack and relax after your journey.

Public transport (metro, bus) is readily available from Sants station.

Dinner in Eixample

Enjoy a late dinner in the Eixample district, known for its grid-pattern streets and Modernist architecture.

Hotel Breakfast

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel or a local cafe.

Basilica de la Sagrada Familia

Visit Antoni Gaudi's unfinished masterpiece, the iconic Basilica de la Sagrada Familia.

Marvel at its intricate facades and stunning interior.

Book tickets well in advance to ensure entry and choose a specific time slot. Rated 4.7/5 on TripAdvisor.

Lunch near Sagrada Familia

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant or cafe near the Sagrada Familia.

Explore Gothic Quarter

Wander through the narrow, winding streets of Barcelona's historic Gothic Quarter, discovering hidden squares and ancient buildings.

Visit Plaça Sant Jaume, Plaça del Rei, and the Barcelona Cathedral. Free to explore.

Stroll La Rambla

Take a walk down the famous La Rambla boulevard, soaking in the lively atmosphere and street performers.

Be aware of your surroundings, as it can be crowded. Visit La Boqueria Market off La Rambla.

Tapas Dinner

Enjoy a traditional tapas dinner in a lively Barcelona neighborhood like El Born or Gràcia.

Arrive in Paris & Hotel Check-in

Arrive at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG), transfer to your accommodation, Le Bristol Paris, and check in.

Settle into your room before starting your Parisian adventure.

Utilize RER B train or taxi for transfer from CDG to city center.

Eiffel Tower Visit

Experience the grandeur of the Eiffel Tower.

Ascend to the top for panoramic views of Paris. Consider pre-booking tickets to save time.

Book tickets well in advance online. The queues can be very long.

Seine River Cruise

Embark on a relaxing boat trip along the Seine River, offering unique perspectives of Parisian landmarks like Notre Dame, the Louvre, and Musée d'Orsay.

Cruises often depart near the Eiffel Tower or Pont Neuf. Enjoy the beautiful evening light.

Dinner near Eiffel Tower

Enjoy a delightful dinner at a traditional French bistro in the 7th arrondissement, close to the Eiffel Tower.

Many charming restaurants offer classic French cuisine in this area.

Louvre Museum Visit

Explore one of the world's largest and most famous art museums, home to iconic works like the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo.

Book your tickets online in advance to skip long queues. Consider focusing on a few key collections.

Lunch near Palais Royal

Enjoy a casual lunch at a cafe or brasserie near the Palais Royal, offering classic French dishes.

Many options available ranging from quick bites to more relaxed dining.

Champs-Élysées & Arc de Triomphe

Stroll down the famous Avenue des Champs-Élysées, window shop, and then visit the iconic Arc de Triomphe, with an option to climb to the top for views.

The Arc de Triomphe offers fantastic views, especially at sunset. Be cautious of traffic when crossing.

Galeries Lafayette Haussmann

Indulge in a luxury shopping experience at Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann, known for its stunning Art Nouveau dome and wide array of fashion, accessories, and gourmet food.

Don't miss the panoramic rooftop terrace for a free view of Paris.

Dinner near Opéra Garnier

Enjoy dinner in the vibrant Opéra district, offering diverse dining options from casual brasseries to upscale restaurants.

The area is bustling and has many theatre-goers.

Cathedrale Notre-Dame

View the iconic Cathedrale Notre-Dame de Paris from the exterior.

While still under reconstruction, its Gothic grandeur is undeniable.

Currently undergoing restoration, so interior access is limited. Still a breathtaking sight from the outside.

Explore Le Marais District

Wander through the historic and trendy Le Marais district, known for its unique boutiques, art galleries, and rich Jewish heritage. Explore Place des Vosges.

A great area for unique shopping and exploring charming streets.

Lunch in Le Marais

Savor a delicious lunch in one of Le Marais' many excellent eateries, from traditional French bistros to trendy cafes.

This area is famous for its falafel shops.

Centre Pompidou

Visit the Centre Pompidou, a high-tech architectural marvel housing a vast public library, the Musée National d'Art Moderne, and a music research center.

Known for its distinctive exterior with exposed pipes and structural elements.

ExperienceFirst Paris Tour

Join an ExperienceFirst walking tour to gain deeper insights into Parisian history, culture, or a specific neighborhood, guided by local experts.

They offer various themed tours. Check their schedule for options that fit your interests.

Dinner in Latin Quarter

Explore the vibrant Latin Quarter for an evening meal, famous for its lively atmosphere, bookstores, and diverse restaurants.

A historic student district with many affordable and charming dining options.

Musée d'Orsay

Visit the Musée d'Orsay, housed in a former Beaux-Arts railway station, featuring an impressive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces.

Consider pre-booking tickets. Its clock room offers unique views of the Seine.

Lunch in Saint-Germain-des-Prés

Enjoy a leisurely lunch in the charming Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood, known for its literary history and upscale cafes.

Famous cafes like Les Deux Magots and Café de Flore are in this area.

Montmartre & Sacré-Cœur

Explore the artistic neighborhood of Montmartre, visit the beautiful Sacré-Cœur Basilica, and enjoy panoramic views of the city.

Take the funicular up to Sacré-Cœur to save your legs, or enjoy the stairs. Watch out for street artists in Place du Tertre.

Farewell Dinner in Montmartre

Enjoy a farewell dinner in Montmartre, soaking in the bohemian atmosphere and enjoying local cuisine.

Many charming and romantic restaurants can be found here.

Last Parisian Breakfast

Enjoy a final French breakfast at a local patisserie or your hotel, savoring croissants and coffee.

A classic way to say goodbye to Paris.

Hotel Check-out

Check out from Le Bristol Paris, ensuring all your belongings are packed and ready for your onward journey.

Confirm check-out time with the hotel.

Buckingham Palace

Witness the iconic residence of the British monarch.

Explore the exterior and grounds, and if time permits, observe the Changing of the Guard (check schedule closer to date).

The Changing of the Guard usually takes place on Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun; confirm dates online. Exterior viewing is free.

Westminster Abbey

Visit the historic coronation church of British monarchs and burial place of many notable figures.

Admire its Gothic architecture and rich history.

Houses of Parliament & Big Ben

Walk past the Houses of Parliament and the iconic Elizabeth Tower, home to Big Ben.

Capture photos of these quintessential London landmarks.

Big Ben is undergoing restoration, but its clock face is often visible. Public access inside Parliament is limited; check official website for tour availability.

Trafalgar Square & National Gallery

Explore the vibrant Trafalgar Square, home to Nelson's Column and the National Gallery.

Pop into the National Gallery for a quick look at some masterpieces.

The National Gallery has free entry to its main collection.

Dinner in Covent Garden

Enjoy dinner and soak in the lively atmosphere of Covent Garden, known for its street performers, shops, and diverse dining options.

British Museum

Explore one of the world's greatest museums, home to a vast collection of world art and artifacts, including the Rosetta Stone and Egyptian mummies.

Entry is free. Consider downloading the museum app or joining a guided tour to make the most of your visit.

Lunch in Bloomsbury

Enjoy lunch in the charming Bloomsbury area, near the British Museum, offering various cafes and restaurants.

Oxford Street & Regent Street Shopping

Indulge in some retail therapy on Oxford Street and Regent Street, known for their flagship stores and diverse range of shops.

West End Theatre Show

Experience London's renowned theatre scene with a captivating West End show.

(Pre-booking highly recommended for popular productions).

Check online for current show listings and book tickets in advance. Many theaters are in the Covent Garden/Leicester Square area.

Tower of London

Explore the historic fortress, home to the Crown Jewels, notorious prisoners, and the Yeoman Warders (Beefeaters).

Tower Bridge Exhibition

Walk across the iconic Tower Bridge and visit the exhibition to learn about its history and engineering, including the glass floor walkways.

Lunch at Borough Market

Indulge in a variety of international and local foods at London's famous Borough Market, a foodie's paradise.

Market can be very busy, especially on Saturdays.

Tate Modern

Visit one of the world's leading contemporary art galleries, housed in a former power station.

Enjoy modern art and panoramic views from the top floor.

General admission is free, special exhibitions may have a fee.

Shakespeare's Globe

See a reconstruction of the open-air playhouse where many of Shakespeare's plays were first performed.

Consider a tour or catch a performance if available.

Tours are available for a fee. Check performance schedule.

Dinner on South Bank

Dine at one of the many restaurants along the South Bank, enjoying views of the Thames and the city skyline.

Transfer to London Airport

Check out from your hotel and make your way to London Heathrow (LHR) or Gatwick (LGW) airport for your flight to Rome.

Be mindful of the time difference once in Rome.

Flight London to Rome

Board your flight departing from London at 10:30 AM.

Arrive at Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO). Remember to adjust your watch to Europe/Rome timezone (UTC+2).

Upon arrival, the local time will be 14:00/2:00 PM.

Transfer to Rome Hotel

From Rome Fiumicino Airport, transfer to your hotel in central Rome.

Options include the Leonardo Express train to Termini Station, taxis, or private transfers.

Hotel Check-in & Relax

Check into your hotel in Rome and take some time to freshen up and relax after your journey.

Timezone: Europe/Rome (UTC+2)

Evening Stroll near Piazza Navona

Take a leisurely walk to Piazza Navona, admire Bernini's Fountain of Four Rivers, and soak in the Roman evening atmosphere.

Grab a gelato!

Authentic Roman Dinner

Enjoy your first authentic Roman dinner.

Try classic dishes like Cacio e Pepe or Carbonara.

Colosseum Exploration

Step back in time at the magnificent Colosseum, the largest amphitheater ever built.

Imagine gladiatorial contests and public spectacles.

Book tickets online well in advance to skip lines. Combined tickets with Roman Forum and Palatine Hill are often available.

Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

Wander through the ruins of the Roman Forum, the heart of ancient Rome, and explore Palatine Hill, one of the most ancient parts of the city with imperial palace ruins.

Typically included with your Colosseum ticket. Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking.

Lunch near Colosseo

Enjoy a traditional Italian lunch in one of the many trattorias or cafes around the Colosseum area.

The Pantheon

Visit the remarkably preserved ancient Roman temple, now a church, known for its impressive dome and oculus.

Entry is free, but timed entry may be required during peak hours. Dress respectfully (shoulders and knees covered).

Piazza Navona & Gelato

Return to Piazza Navona for a more relaxed experience, perhaps enjoying another gelato while people-watching and admiring the fountains.

Great spot for an aperitivo (pre-dinner drink).

Dinner in Rome's Historic Center

Savor another delightful Italian dinner in the charming streets of Rome's historic center.

Colosseum & Roman Forum

Step back in time with a visit to the iconic Colosseum, followed by a walk through the sprawling ruins of the Roman Forum, the center of ancient Roman life.

Book tickets online in advance to skip long queues. The ticket typically includes access to Palatine Hill as well.

Palatine Hill Exploration

Wander through the archaeological site of Palatine Hill, one of the seven hills of Rome, offering stunning views of the Colosseum and Roman Forum.

Access is usually combined with your Colosseum/Roman Forum ticket.

Lunch in Monti District

Enjoy a traditional Roman lunch at a charming trattoria in the bohemian Monti district, known for its authentic eateries.

Capitoline Museums

Explore the Capitoline Museums, located on Capitoline Hill, home to a vast collection of ancient Roman artifacts and sculptures.

Designed by Michelangelo, the museum offers fascinating insights into Roman history and art.

Dinner in Monti

Savor another delightful dinner in the Monti neighborhood, enjoying its lively evening atmosphere and diverse culinary scene.

Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel

Immerse yourselves in the artistic treasures of the Vatican Museums, culminating in Michelangelo's breathtaking Sistine Chapel.

Pre-book tickets online to avoid extremely long lines. Dress code requires shoulders and knees to be covered.

St. Peter's Basilica & Square

Visit the magnificent St.

Peter's Basilica, an architectural marvel and spiritual heart of Catholicism. Optionally, climb to the dome for panoramic views.

Entry to the Basilica is free, but expect security checks. Dome climb has a fee.

Trevi Fountain & Pantheon

Toss a coin into the iconic Trevi Fountain to ensure a return to Rome, then marvel at the architectural wonder of the Pantheon.

The Pantheon is still a church, be respectful. Entry is free.

Spanish Steps & Via dei Condotti

Ascend the elegant Spanish Steps and enjoy views of the city.

Afterwards, browse the luxury boutiques along Via dei Condotti.

Farewell Dinner near Piazza Navona

Enjoy a special farewell dinner at a restaurant near the beautiful Piazza Navona, reflecting on your Roman adventures.

Hotel Checkout & Airport Transfer

Check out from your hotel and transfer to Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (FCO) for your international flight.

Airport Check-in & Security

Complete check-in procedures and security checks at Fiumicino Airport (FCO) for your flight back to Brazil.

Flight Departure to Brazil

Depart from Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO) for your return journey to Porto Alegre, Brazil.