14-Day Spain, Portugal, and South of France Backpacking Adventure

Day 1: Barcelona Exploration

Barcelona, Spain on July 5, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Brunch & Cake

Start your day with a delicious and healthy breakfast featuring artisanal coffee and freshly baked pastries at this popular café.
EUR15, 1h

10:30am

Visit Sagrada Família

Explore Gaudí’s iconic basilica, marvel at its stunning architecture and intricate facades; booking tickets in advance is recommended.
EUR26, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at La Boqueria Market

Enjoy fresh tapas and local Catalan dishes from various stalls in this vibrant food market located on La Rambla.
EUR20, 1h

2:30pm

Stroll through Park Güell

Visit Gaudí’s colorful park with unique architectural elements and city views; open from 8:00am to 9:30pm.
EUR10, 1h30m

4:30pm

Walk along La Rambla and Gothic Quarter

Discover bustling streets, shops, and historic alleys leading to the Barcelona Cathedral.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Cervecería Catalana

Savor traditional tapas in a lively atmosphere, perfect to end your first day in Barcelona.
EUR25, 1h30m
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Day 2: Art and Beach

Barcelona, Spain on July 6, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Federal Café

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast with great coffee and brunch options near the city center.
EUR12, 1h

10:00am

Visit Picasso Museum

Discover an extensive collection of Picasso’s early works in a beautifully restored medieval building. Open 9:00am - 7:00pm.
EUR12, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at El Xampanyet

A cozy tapas bar offering traditional Catalan dishes and sparkling cava near the museum.
EUR20, 1h

2:00pm

Relax at Barceloneta Beach

Spend the afternoon lounging on the city beach with views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Free, 3h

6:00pm

Explore El Born District

Wander narrow streets filled with boutiques, cafes, and lively bars.
Free, 1h30m

8:00pm

Dinner at Cal Pep

Enjoy fresh seafood and tapas in one of Barcelona’s most famous local spots; expect a wait but worth it.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 3: Valencia Arrival

Valencia, Spain on July 7, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at hotel or local café

Grab a quick breakfast before heading to the train station.
EUR8, 0h45m

8:00am

Train to Valencia

Travel from Barcelona to Valencia by high-speed train; journey takes about 3h30m.
EUR40, 3h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Central Market Valencia

Sample paellas and fresh produce at the iconic Central Market often regarded as one of Europe’s largest.
EUR18, 1h

1:30pm

Visit City of Arts and Sciences

Explore futuristic architecture, two museums and an oceanarium; open 10am-7pm. Tickets recommended in advance.
EUR30, 3h

5:00pm

Relax at Turia Gardens

Walk or rent a bike in this lush park built on a former riverbed spanning the city.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at La Pepica

Famous beachfront restaurant known for traditional Valencian paella, open daily until 11pm.
EUR28, 1h30m
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Day 4: Valencia to Madrid

Madrid, Spain on July 8, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Dulce de Leche Boutique

Enjoy freshly baked croissants and excellent coffee to start your day.
EUR12, 0h45m

9:00am

Train to Madrid

Travel from Valencia to Madrid in approximately 1 hour 45 minutes by AVE high-speed train.
EUR35, 1h45m

11:00am

Visit Prado Museum

Explore one of the world’s finest art museums featuring masterpieces from Velázquez, Goya, and more. Open 10am-8pm.
EUR15, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Mercado de San Miguel

Try a variety of gourmet tapas in this historic and vibrant market near Plaza Mayor.
EUR20, 1h

3:00pm

Stroll through Retiro Park

Relax by the lake and visit the Crystal Palace inside this expansive green oasis in central Madrid.
Free, 1h30m

5:00pm

Explore Gran Via and Plaza Mayor

Enjoy shopping and sightseeing along Madrid’s main street and the historic square.
Free, 1h30m

8:00pm

Dinner at Sobrino de Botín

Dine at the world’s oldest restaurant serving classic roast specialties since 1725.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 5: More Madrid Sights

Madrid, Spain on July 9, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Café Murillo

Light pastries and coffee just steps from the Prado Museum.
EUR10, 0h45m

10:00am

Visit Royal Palace

Tour the official residence of the Spanish royal family filled with grand rooms and artworks; open 10am-8pm.
EUR14, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Lhardy

Taste traditional Madrid dishes like cocido and callos at this historic eatery.
EUR22, 1h

2:00pm

Explore Museo Reina Sofia

View modern art including Picasso’s Guernica in this famous museum open 10am-9pm.
EUR12, 2h

5:00pm

Churros and Chocolate at San Ginés

Indulge in the classic Spanish treat at this iconic late-night café open 24hrs.
EUR7, 0h30m

7:00pm

Evening tapas in La Latina

Experience vibrant nightlife and diverse tapas bars in this lively district.
EUR25, 2h
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Day 6: Madrid to Lisbon

Lisbon, Portugal on July 10, 2025

7:00am

Early breakfast at hotel

Grab a quick breakfast before traveling to Lisbon.
EUR8, 0h30m

8:00am

Flight from Madrid to Lisbon

Take a direct 1h15m morning flight to Lisbon for an efficient transfer between countries.
EUR50, 1h15m

10:30am

Check-in and lunch near Baixa

Get settled and enjoy a meal at Time Out Market, featuring top local food vendors with diverse options.
EUR20, 1h

12:30pm

Ride Tram 28

Hop on this historic tram to explore iconic Lisbon neighborhoods like Alfama and Bairro Alto.
EUR3, 1h

2:00pm

Visit São Jorge Castle

Tour the ancient castle with panoramic views over Lisbon; open 9am-6pm.
EUR10, 1h30m

4:00pm

Explore Alfama district

Wander through narrow cobbled streets full of character, local shops, and cafés.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Cervejaria Ramiro

Enjoy fresh seafood and local beer in this casual but popular Lisbon spot.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 7: Lisbon Highlights

Lisbon, Portugal on July 11, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Fabrica Coffee Roasters

Experience excellent coffee and light breakfast options in a trendy café.
EUR10, 0h45m

9:30am

Day trip to Belém

Visit Belém Tower, Jerónimos Monastery (open 10am-5:30pm), and sample famous Pastéis de Belém pastries.
EUR15, 5h

3:00pm

Return to Lisbon and relax at Miradouro de Santa Catarina

Enjoy sunset views over the Tagus River with a laid-back vibe and street musicians.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Taberna da Rua das Flores

Traditional Portuguese cuisine in a cozy, authentic setting with an inventive menu.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 8: Lisbon to Porto

Porto, Portugal on July 12, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Padaria Portuguesa

Enjoy fresh pastries and coffee at this popular chain before departure.
EUR8, 0h45m

9:00am

Train to Porto

Travel north via Alfa Pendular train; journey takes about 3 hours with scenic views.
EUR30, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Mercado do Bolhão

Try traditional northern Portuguese dishes and fresh goods at this historic market.
EUR20, 1h

2:00pm

Walk along Ribeira District

Explore colorful riverside streets, historic buildings, and the Dom Luís I Bridge.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Port Wine Cellar Tour

Visit Vila Nova de Gaia cellars for tours and tastings; open 10am-6pm; book in advance.
EUR15, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Brasão Cervejaria Aliados

Enjoy local specialties including francesinha, a Porto classic, in a lively atmosphere.
EUR25, 1h30m
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Day 9: Porto to Bordeaux

Bordeaux, France on July 13, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Nicolau Porto

Have a healthy and hearty breakfast before traveling.
EUR12, 0h45m

8:00am

Train from Porto to Bordeaux (via Lisbon and connection in Irun or alternative routes)

Travel by combination of train and possibly a connecting journey around 7-8 hours; book tickets in advance for best options.
EUR70, 8h

4:00pm

Check-in and late afternoon stroll

Relax and explore Bordeaux’s historic center, including Place de la Bourse and Water Mirror.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Le Petit Commerce

Savor fresh seafood and classic French cuisine in a popular Bordeaux bistro.
EUR35, 1h30m
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Day 10: Bordeaux Wine and Culture

Bordeaux, France on July 14, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Sip Coffee Bar

Start with excellent coffee and light pastries in a trendy setting.
EUR10, 0h45m

9:30am

Wine Tour in Médoc or Saint-Émilion

Half-day guided visit of renowned wine chateaux with tastings; pre-booked tours often start around 9:30am.
EUR60, 4h

2:00pm

Lunch at La Tupina

Traditional southwestern French cuisine in a rustic ambiance, open daily from 11:45am to 3pm and 7pm to 9:30pm.
EUR35, 1h30m

4:00pm

Visit CAPC Museum

Contemporary art museum in former warehouse, open 11am-6pm Tuesday to Sunday.
EUR6, 1h30m

6:00pm

Riverfront walk and sunset at Pont de Pierre

Enjoy picturesque river views in the evening light.
Free, 1h

8:00pm

Dinner at Restaurant Miles

Creative contemporary French dishes emphasizing local ingredients.
EUR40, 1h30m
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Day 11: Bordeaux to Nice

Nice, France on July 15, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at local café

Quick breakfast before morning travel.
EUR8, 0h30m

8:00am

Train from Bordeaux to Nice

Scenic train journey through southern France taking about 7 hours; book TGV in advance for best fares.
EUR60, 7h

3:30pm

Check-in and explore Promenade des Anglais

Relax along the famous seaside promenade and enjoy Mediterranean views.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at La Rossettisserie

Cozy bistro known for expertly roasted meats and local wines.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 12: Nice and Monaco

Nice, France on July 16, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Emilie’s Cookies

Enjoy fresh pastries and specialty coffee near Old Town.
EUR10, 0h45m

9:30am

Day trip to Monaco

Visit the Prince’s Palace, Casino de Monte-Carlo and Exotic Garden; trains run frequently with approx. 20-25 minutes travel time.
EUR10 rail fare, 5h

3:30pm

Return to Nice, visit Old Town (Vieux Nice)

Explore narrow streets, colorful markets, and Baroque churches.
Free, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Oliviera

Mediterranean cuisine with an emphasis on olive oil-based dishes in a charming atmosphere.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 13: Nice Museum and Beach

Nice, France on July 17, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Café Marché

Enjoy coffee and light local breakfast fare near the market.
EUR10, 0h45m

10:00am

Visit Musée Matisse

Explore a superb collection of Matisse’s works in a beautiful villa in Cimiez, open 10am-6pm.
EUR10, 1h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at La Merenda

Tiny local spot serving traditional Niçoise dishes, cash only; open 12pm-2pm.
EUR25, 1h

2:00pm

Relax at Blue Beach

Spend the afternoon sunbathing at a private beach with rentals for loungers and umbrellas.
EUR20, 3h

6:30pm

Evening walk around Port Lympia

View yachts and enjoy waterfront cafes in lively marina district.
Free, 1h

8:00pm

Dinner at Jan

Michelin-starred restaurant offering refined French-South African fusion cuisine; reservation recommended.
EUR70, 2h
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Day 14: Departure Day

Nice, France on July 18, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel or nearby café

Enjoy a relaxing final breakfast in Nice before departure.
EUR10, 0h45m

10:00am

Last-minute shopping or stroll

Visit local shops in Old Town or enjoy a last walk on the promenade, depending on your flight time.
Free, Variable
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