21 Days of European Exploration Itinerary

Begin your second day in Paris with a visit to Sainte Chapelle. This Gothic chapel is renowned for its stunning stained glass windows that depict biblical scenes in vivid colors. Following this, explore Palais Royal, a former royal palace that now houses beautiful gardens and arcades filled with shops and cafes.

After lunch at Café de Flore, one of Paris's most famous cafés located in Saint Germain des Prés, head over to Montmartre. This historic district is known for its bohemian atmosphere and artistic heritage. Visit the iconic Basilique du Sacré-Coeur perched atop Montmartre hill for panoramic views of Paris.

In the evening, experience traditional French cuisine with a modern twist at Le Relais Gascon in Montmartre. End your day with an enchanting performance at Paris: Moulin Rouge Cabaret Show Ticket with Champagne, one of Paris's most famous cabaret shows.

Start your third day by visiting one of Paris’s most prestigious art museums, Musée d'Orsay (Orsay Museum) Entry Ticket. Housed in a former railway station, this museum features an extensive collection of Impressionist masterpieces by artists such as Monet, Van Gogh, and Degas.

After enjoying lunch at Restaurant Le Musée d'Orsay, take some time to explore the charming neighborhood of Le Marais. Visit historical sites like Place des Vosges and enjoy shopping in trendy boutiques. Don’t miss out on visiting Centre Pompidou (Pompidou Centre Modern Art Museum Entry Ticket), known for its unique architecture and contemporary art collections.

Conclude your day with dinner at L'As du Fallafel, famous for its delicious falafel sandwiches located in Le Marais. Afterwards, enjoy an evening stroll along the Seine or relax at one of Le Marais’s cozy wine bars like La Belle Hortense.

Begin your day in Madrid with a visit to the Royal Palace of Madrid (Palacio Real de Madrid). This magnificent palace is the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family, although it is now only used for state ceremonies. The palace's grandiose architecture and lavish interiors are sure to impress. After exploring the palace, take a stroll through the adjacent Sabatini Gardens (Jardines de Sabatini), which offer beautiful views of the palace and are a perfect spot for a morning walk.

In the afternoon, head over to Prado Museum (Museo del Prado), one of the most important art museums in Spain. The museum houses an extensive collection of European art, including works by Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco. After immersing yourself in art history, enjoy lunch at Café Prado, located near the museum.

For an evening filled with culture and entertainment, attend a flamenco show at Madrid: Flamenco Show at Tablao Las Carboneras. This traditional Spanish dance performance is both passionate and captivating. End your day with dinner at Sobrino de Botín, one of the oldest restaurants in the world, known for its delicious roast suckling pig.

Reina Sofia Museum (Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofia) should be your first stop today. This modern art museum is home to Picasso's famous painting 'Guernica' as well as works by Dalí and Miró. Spend your morning exploring its vast collection.

Retiro Park (Parque de El Retiro) is perfect for a relaxing afternoon. This large park offers beautiful gardens, sculptures, and a peaceful lake where you can rent a rowboat. Enjoy lunch at La Cabaña Argentina, located near Retiro Park.

Madrid: Wine and Tapas Walking Tour will be an excellent way to experience Madrid's culinary scene in the evening. This guided tour takes you through some of Madrid's best tapas bars where you can sample delicious local dishes paired with Spanish wines.

Barcelona: Private City Tour by Eco Tuk Tuk offers an eco-friendly way to explore Barcelona’s highlights including La Sagrada Familia, Casa Batlló, and more. This tour provides an excellent overview of the city’s main attractions.

Park Güell is next on your list. Designed by Antoni Gaudí, this whimsical park features colorful mosaics and unique architectural elements that make it one of Barcelona’s most famous landmarks. Enjoy lunch at El Jardí de l'Àpat, located near Park Güell.

Conclude your day with a visit to Barcelona: Flamenco Show at Tablao Flamenco Cordobes. Experience authentic flamenco dancing accompanied by live music in an intimate setting right on La Rambla. For dinner, head to Cervecería Catalana, known for its wide variety of tapas.

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Sagrada Familia. This masterpiece by Antoni Gaudí is still under construction but remains one of the most visited landmarks in Barcelona. The intricate facades and stunning interior will leave you in awe. After exploring the basilica, take a short walk to Milà House (Casa Milà), another one of Gaudí's architectural marvels. Known as La Pedrera, this building features unique undulating stone facades and wrought-iron balconies.

In the afternoon, head over to Gothic Quarter (Barri Gotic). This historic neighborhood is filled with narrow medieval streets, charming squares, and ancient buildings. Don't miss visiting Barcelona Cathedral (Catedral de Barcelona), a stunning example of Gothic architecture. Enjoy lunch at El Xampanyet, a popular tapas bar located in the Gothic Quarter.

Conclude your day with a relaxing evening at Barcelona: Flamenco Show at City Hall Theater. Experience the passion and intensity of traditional flamenco dancing accompanied by live music. For dinner, head to Cervecería Catalana, known for its wide variety of delicious tapas.

Royal Palace of Madrid (Palacio Real de Madrid) should be your first stop today. This magnificent palace is the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family, although it is now only used for state ceremonies. The palace's grandiose architecture and lavish interiors are sure to impress. After exploring the palace, take a stroll through the adjacent Sabatini Gardens (Jardines de Sabatini), which offer beautiful views of the palace and are a perfect spot for a morning walk.

Prado Museum (Museo del Prado) is one of Spain's most important art museums and houses an extensive collection of European art, including works by Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco. Spend your afternoon immersing yourself in art history before enjoying lunch at Café Prado, located near the museum.

Madrid: Flamenco Show at Tablao Las Carboneras offers an evening filled with culture and entertainment. This traditional Spanish dance performance is both passionate and captivating. End your day with dinner at Sobrino de Botín, one of the oldest restaurants in the world, known for its delicious roast suckling pig.

Musée d'Orsay (Orsay Museum) Entry Ticket should be your first stop today. Housed in a former railway station, this museum features an extensive collection of Impressionist masterpieces by artists such as Monet, Van Gogh, and Degas.

Le Marais is perfect for exploring after lunch at Restaurant Le Musée d'Orsay. Visit historical sites like Place des Vosges and enjoy shopping in trendy boutiques before heading to Centre Pompidou (Pompidou Centre Modern Art Museum Entry Ticket), known for its unique architecture and contemporary art collections.

L'As du Fallafel offers delicious falafel sandwiches located in Le Marais for dinner. Afterwards, enjoy an evening stroll along the Seine or relax at one of Le Marais’s cozy wine bars like La Belle Hortense.

Start your day with a visit to Venice: St. Mark's Basilica and Terrace Skip-the-Line Tour. This iconic basilica is renowned for its stunning mosaics and impressive architecture. The skip-the-line access ensures you can make the most of your time exploring this beautiful landmark. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through St. Mark's Square, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

In the afternoon, embark on a Venice: Rialto Market Food and Wine Lunchtime Tour. This tour offers a delightful culinary experience as you explore the bustling Rialto Market, sampling local delicacies and wines along the way. Enjoy lunch at one of the market's charming eateries.

Conclude your day with a romantic Venice: Shared Gondola Ride Across the Grand Canal. Glide through Venice's picturesque canals while enjoying the serene ambiance of this unique city. For dinner, head to Trattoria Al Gazzettino, known for its delicious Venetian cuisine.

Begin your day in Florence with a visit to Florence: Uffizi Gallery Timed Entrance Ticket. This world-famous art museum houses an extensive collection of Renaissance masterpieces by artists such as Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci. The timed entrance ticket ensures you can explore at your own pace without long waits.

Afterward, take a short walk to Piazza della Signoria, Florence's historic square filled with impressive statues and surrounded by beautiful architecture. Enjoy lunch at All'Antico Vinaio, famous for its delicious sandwiches made with fresh local ingredients.

In the evening, immerse yourself in Florentine culture with a visit to Florence: Accademia Gallery Timed Entrance Ticket, home to Michelangelo's iconic statue of David. Afterward, dine at Trattoria ZaZa, known for its traditional Tuscan dishes.

Start your day in Rome with a visit to Colosseum Skip-the-Line Guided Tour. This ancient amphitheater is one of Rome's most iconic landmarks, offering fascinating insights into Roman history and architecture. The skip-the-line guided tour ensures you can make the most of your time exploring this historic site.

Afterward, head over to Roman Forum & Palatine Hill Skip-the-Line Tour, located nearby. These ancient ruins offer a glimpse into daily life in ancient Rome and provide stunning views over the city from Palatine Hill. Enjoy lunch at Taverna dei Fori Imperiali, located close to these historic sites.

Conclude your day with an evening visit to Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Skip-the-Line Tour. Explore the vast collections of art and artifacts housed within Vatican City before marveling at Michelangelo's breathtaking frescoes in the Sistine Chapel. For dinner, head to Ristorante La Pergola, offering gourmet Italian cuisine with panoramic views over Rome.

Begin your day in Milan with a visit to the iconic The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci. This world-renowned mural is housed in the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie and offers a glimpse into the genius of Leonardo da Vinci. The timed entrance ensures you can appreciate this masterpiece without the crowds. Afterward, take a short walk to Sforza Castle (Castello Sforzesco), a historic fortress that now houses several museums and art collections.

In the afternoon, head over to Milan Cathedral (Duomo di Milano). This stunning Gothic cathedral is one of Milan's most famous landmarks, offering breathtaking views from its rooftop terrace. Enjoy lunch at Luini, known for its delicious panzerotti, located near the cathedral.

Conclude your day with an evening visit to La Scala Opera House (Teatro alla Scala). Experience the grandeur of one of the world's most famous opera houses with a guided tour or attend a performance if available. For dinner, head to Trattoria Milanese, offering traditional Milanese cuisine in a cozy setting.

Venice: St. Mark’s Basilica with Terrace & Doge’s Palace should be your first stop today. This combined tour allows you to explore two of Venice's most iconic landmarks with skip-the-line access. Marvel at the stunning mosaics inside St. Mark's Basilica before heading over to Doge's Palace to learn about Venice's rich history.

Venice: Murano & Burano Panoramic Boat Tour w/ Glassblowing offers an excellent way to spend your afternoon. Visit the islands of Murano and Burano, known for their glassblowing workshops and colorful houses respectively. Enjoy lunch at a local eatery on Burano.

Venice: Traveling Opera in a Historic Palace on Grand Canal provides an enchanting end to your day. Experience live opera performances in an intimate setting within a historic Venetian palace along the Grand Canal. For dinner, head to Osteria alle Testiere, known for its fresh seafood dishes.

Florence: Uffizi Gallery Timed Entrance Ticket should be your first stop today. This world-famous art museum houses an extensive collection of Renaissance masterpieces by artists such as Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci.

Piazza della Signoria is perfect for exploring after lunch at All'Antico Vinaio, famous for its delicious sandwiches made with fresh local ingredients. Take some time to admire the impressive statues and beautiful architecture surrounding this historic square.

Florence: Accademia Gallery Timed Entrance Ticket offers an evening filled with art and culture as you visit Michelangelo's iconic statue of David housed within this renowned gallery. For dinner, dine at Trattoria ZaZa, known for its traditional Tuscan dishes.

Start your day with a visit to the Royal Palace of Madrid (Palacio Real de Madrid). This magnificent palace is the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family, although it is now only used for state ceremonies. The palace's grandiose architecture and lavish interiors are sure to impress. After exploring the palace, take a stroll through the adjacent Sabatini Gardens (Jardines de Sabatini), which offer beautiful views of the palace and are a perfect spot for a morning walk.

Prado Museum (Museo del Prado) is one of Spain's most important art museums and houses an extensive collection of European art, including works by Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco. Spend your afternoon immersing yourself in art history before enjoying lunch at Café Prado, located near the museum.

Madrid: Flamenco Show at Tablao Las Carboneras offers an evening filled with culture and entertainment. This traditional Spanish dance performance is both passionate and captivating. End your day with dinner at Sobrino de Botín, one of the oldest restaurants in the world, known for its delicious roast suckling pig.

Barcelona: Private City Tour by Eco Tuk Tuk offers an eco-friendly way to explore Barcelona’s highlights including La Sagrada Familia, Casa Batlló, and more. This tour provides an excellent overview of the city’s main attractions.

Park Güell is next on your list. Designed by Antoni Gaudí, this whimsical park features colorful mosaics and unique architectural elements that make it one of Barcelona’s most famous landmarks. Enjoy lunch at El Jardí de l'Àpat, located near Park Güell.

Barcelona: Flamenco Show at Tablao Flamenco Cordobes provides an authentic flamenco experience accompanied by live music in an intimate setting right on La Rambla. For dinner, head to Cervecería Catalana, known for its wide variety of tapas.

Venice: St. Mark’s Basilica with Terrace & Doge’s Palace should be your first stop today. This combined tour allows you to explore two of Venice's most iconic landmarks with skip-the-line access. Marvel at the stunning mosaics inside St. Mark's Basilica before heading over to Doge's Palace to learn about Venice's rich history.

Venice: Murano & Burano Panoramic Boat Tour w/ Glassblowing offers an excellent way to spend your afternoon visiting Murano and Burano islands known for their glassblowing workshops and colorful houses respectively. Enjoy lunch at a local eatery on Burano.

Venice: Traveling Opera in a Historic Palace on Grand Canal provides an enchanting end to your day with live opera performances in an intimate setting within a historic Venetian palace along the Grand Canal. For dinner, head to Osteria alle Testiere, known for its fresh seafood dishes.

Begin your day with a visit to the iconic The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci. This world-renowned mural is housed in the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie and offers a glimpse into the genius of Leonardo da Vinci. The timed entrance ensures you can appreciate this masterpiece without the crowds. Afterward, take a short walk to Sforza Castle (Castello Sforzesco), a historic fortress that now houses several museums and art collections.

In the afternoon, head over to Milan Cathedral (Duomo di Milano). This stunning Gothic cathedral is one of Milan's most famous landmarks, offering breathtaking views from its rooftop terrace. Enjoy lunch at Luini, known for its delicious panzerotti, located near the cathedral.

Conclude your day with an evening visit to La Scala Opera House (Teatro alla Scala). Experience the grandeur of one of the world's most famous opera houses with a guided tour or attend a performance if available. For dinner, head to Trattoria Milanese, offering traditional Milanese cuisine in a cozy setting.

Venice: St. Mark’s Basilica with Terrace & Doge’s Palace should be your first stop today. This combined tour allows you to explore two of Venice's most iconic landmarks with skip-the-line access. Marvel at the stunning mosaics inside St. Mark's Basilica before heading over to Doge's Palace to learn about Venice's rich history.

Venice: Murano & Burano Panoramic Boat Tour w/ Glassblowing offers an excellent way to spend your afternoon visiting Murano and Burano islands known for their glassblowing workshops and colorful houses respectively. Enjoy lunch at a local eatery on Burano.

Venice: Traveling Opera in a Historic Palace on Grand Canal provides an enchanting end to your day with live opera performances in an intimate setting within a historic Venetian palace along the Grand Canal. For dinner, head to Osteria alle Testiere, known for its fresh seafood dishes.

Florence: Uffizi Gallery Timed Entrance Ticket should be your first stop today. This world-famous art museum houses an extensive collection of Renaissance masterpieces by artists such as Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci.

Piazza della Signoria is perfect for exploring after lunch at All'Antico Vinaio, famous for its delicious sandwiches made with fresh local ingredients. Take some time to admire the impressive statues and beautiful architecture surrounding this historic square.

Florence: Accademia Gallery Timed Entrance Ticket offers an evening filled with art and culture as you visit Michelangelo's iconic statue of David housed within this renowned gallery. For dinner, dine at Trattoria ZaZa, known for its traditional Tuscan dishes.