From Madrid-Barajas Airport, a licensed white taxi with a red stripe takes about 25–40 minutes to the centre in ordinary traffic; the official flat fare to destinations inside the M-30 is €33. The Metro is cheaper—take Line 8 to Nuevos Ministerios and change for the centre—but allow roughly 45–60 minutes, plus a small airport supplement. After your flight, I’d choose a taxi if you have luggage. For a convenient first stay, look around Sol, Gran Vía or the Literary Quarter; hotels and apartments here make this gentle first walk easy.
Start at Puerta del Sol, the city’s lively central meeting point. Give yourself around 30 minutes to find the Kilometre Zero marker and watch the flow of people before strolling west through the old lanes to Plaza Mayor—about 10 minutes on foot. The arcaded square is best enjoyed without a checklist: look up at the façades, then duck into the surrounding streets. Allow around 45 minutes. Both squares are open public spaces and free to visit; cafés around them can be pricey, so save your appetite for dinner.
Walk roughly 15 minutes south through Austrias to Casa Lucio in La Latina for a classic first-night Madrid meal. Expect about €35–55 per person; book ahead if you can, and check the restaurant’s current dinner hours when reserving. It’s a hearty, old-school choice—pace yourself, especially after a long journey. If jet lag wins, keep the walk short and head back to your accommodation rather than trying to fit in more sightseeing.
Start at the Museo del Prado on the Paseo del Arte. Give yourself around 2½ hours and focus on the Spanish masters: Velázquez’s Las Meninas, Goya’s Black Paintings, and works by El Greco. General admission is typically about €15; check the museum’s official site for 2027 hours and book ahead if you want a particular entry time. Arriving near opening helps you see the galleries before they get busy.
Step next door to the Real Jardín Botánico, a lovely change of pace after the galleries. Allow about an hour to follow the paths through its formal beds and greenhouses; admission is usually around €4–€6. From there, stroll into Retiro Park for an easy wander among the tree-lined paths and around the lake—about 1½ hours is plenty without trying to cover the whole park. Finish at La Sanabresa in Retiro for hearty, traditional cooking; budget roughly €15–€25 per person. It’s popular, so check opening times and reserve if possible, especially if you’re aiming for a Spanish lunchtime around 2 p.m.
Start at the Royal Palace of Madrid; allow around two hours for the state rooms. Booking a timed ticket ahead is sensible, and admission is typically around €14–€15, though check current prices and opening arrangements before you go. From there, it’s just a short walk to the Catedral de la Almudena. Spend about an hour inside, with extra time if you want to visit the museum and viewpoint, which may have a separate fee.
For lunch, wander over to Mercado de San Miguel and graze from a few counters; it’s a lively, popular stop, so expect crowds around midday. Set aside roughly €20–€35 per person. After a breather, walk about 20 minutes to Templo de Debod and enjoy the park and views in the late afternoon. Check current access arrangements for the temple itself, and arrive early if you’re hoping for a good spot to watch the light change.
Make La Bola Taberna your evening meal on 8 April. It’s a long-established Madrid restaurant, a short walk from the palace area, and a particularly good choice if you’d like to try cocido madrileño; allow about €30–€45 per person. Reserve ahead if possible, and check whether cocido is available for your preferred dinner time.
Head to Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía in Atocha for about two hours. Make Picasso’s Guernica your anchor, then leave time for the surrounding modern collection. Check the museum’s official site for 2027 hours and ticket prices; general admission is often around €12, and timed entry is useful. It’s an easy walk from Atocha station, or take the Metro to Estación del Arte.
After the museum, pop into the Estación de Atocha tropical garden for a 30-minute change of scene. The palm-filled indoor space is inside the station and free to visit. Then walk north into Lavapiés—allow roughly 15–20 minutes on foot—or take the Metro from Estación del Arte to Lavapiés. Give yourself an unhurried hour to wander its steep, busy streets and browse the international shops; Calle Argumosa is a good place to pause for a coffee or a drink if you need a break.
Stay in Lavapiés for dinner at La Fisna, a cosy wine bar where the staff can help you choose a glass to go with seasonal dishes. Budget about €30–45 per person; book ahead if you can, and check opening days and dinner hours before setting out. From central Lavapiés, it’s a short walk back to the Metro or onward to your accommodation.
You’re leaving Madrid today and spending the night in Zaragoza, a convenient stop between Madrid and Barcelona. Leave the morning and early afternoon for the separately planned travel; allow a little extra time after arrival to reach your accommodation, check in and have a breather. Hotel Sauce is a practical Old Town base, within walking distance of the main sights; check current rates and room availability for your dates.
If you arrive with time to explore, head to Mercado Central de Zaragoza for a first look at local produce and a light snack. Then walk a few minutes to Plaza del Pilar and visit the Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar. Continue across the square to La Seo del Salvador; the two landmark churches are close together, so this makes a compact, easy first stroll rather than a day of criss-crossing town. Check current visitor access and admission details before setting out, as religious services can affect sightseeing.
Have dinner at Casa Lac, known for its seasonal cooking and vegetables, a short walk through the Old Town from the square. Allow roughly €30–50 per person for dinner, depending on your choices and drinks; reserve ahead if possible. Keep the rest of the evening unhurried—you’ll have a useful head start for continuing to Barcelona tomorrow.
You left Madrid on 10 April and spent the night in Zaragoza, a convenient stop between the two cities. Keep the morning unhurried: have breakfast near your accommodation, then make your way to Zaragoza-Delicias station with enough time to board. Direct trains to Barcelona usually take around 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours; check the current timetable and book ahead, as services and fares vary.
After arriving at Barcelona Sants, allow time to reach your accommodation and drop your bags before heading into the centre. Start at Plaça Reial, a good place to pause and get your bearings in the Gothic Quarter. From there, walk toward Palau Güell in El Raval; it’s a striking early Gaudí building, and timed-entry tickets are worth arranging in advance.
If you have the energy, continue downhill to the Maritime Museum of Barcelona, housed in the old royal shipyards near the waterfront. It makes a manageable visit before dinner, but leave some breathing room after the train rather than trying to pack in too much on arrival day.
Head to 7 Portes for Catalan cooking and rice dishes; it’s a long-established, popular restaurant, so booking ahead is sensible. Budget roughly €35–60 per person, depending on your choices and drinks. After dinner, take a relaxed stroll nearby or return to your accommodation—tomorrow is a better day for a full sightseeing schedule.
Book an early timed entry at Basílica de la Sagrada Família and allow about two hours to take in the interior, façades and, if you’ve reserved a tower visit, the views. Tickets are usually around €26–€40 depending on what’s included; buy direct well ahead, as popular slots sell out. From Sagrada Família station, follow Avinguda de Gaudí for about 15 minutes to Recinte Modernista de Sant Pau. Give the former hospital roughly 1½ hours to wander its tiled pavilions and courtyards; allow around €17–€20 for admission and check the official site for current hours.
From Sant Pau, take the L5 Metro from Sant Pau–Dos de Maig to Diagonal—a short ride—or walk for about 25 minutes down Carrer de Provença. At Casa Milà (La Pedrera), allow around 1½ hours for the sculpted attic, rooms and rooftop chimneys. Timed tickets are wise; standard visits commonly cost about €28–€30, with prices and opening times to confirm closer to your trip. Leave a little breathing room between visits for a coffee or a relaxed lunch nearby rather than trying to squeeze in another major stop.
Finish at Cervecería Catalana, a lively, very popular tapas bar a few minutes’ walk from Casa Milà. Expect roughly €25–€40 per person; go early, around 6:30–7pm, to improve your chances of getting a table, as waits can build and reservations may not be available. Order a few plates to share and settle in—this is a busy, buzzy spot, not a quiet lingering dinner.
Start at Palau de la Música Catalana in El Born. Book a guided tour in advance; it takes about an hour and is the best way to appreciate the stained glass, sculpted columns and dazzling concert hall without rushing. Tours typically cost around €20–€25, with schedules and prices subject to change. From there, walk west toward the Gothic Quarter—about 10–15 minutes through the old lanes.
Visit Barcelona Cathedral, allowing about an hour for the church and cloister. Entry is generally around €10–€15, and modest clothing is expected; check the cathedral’s visitor hours before you go, as access can be limited during services. Then stroll a few minutes to Plaça de Sant Jaume, the historic civic square framed by the city and regional government buildings. Take a short pause here to look around before continuing on foot through the quarter.
Settle in at Can Culleretes, a venerable Catalan restaurant tucked into the Gothic Quarter. Book ahead if you can, especially for lunch, and budget roughly €25–€40 per person. It’s a good place to linger over traditional dishes rather than squeeze in another stop; afterward, leave time to wander the surrounding lanes at an easy pace.
Head to Parc Güell early, before the paths and viewpoints get busy. Book a timed ticket for the Monumental Zone in advance; entry is generally around €18, and you’ll want roughly two hours for Gaudí’s mosaics, the sweeping city views and a wander through the gardens. From central Barcelona, take the Metro’s L3 to Lesseps, then walk uphill for about 20 minutes, or use a local bus or taxi to save your legs for the park.
Walk downhill through Gràcia to Casa Vicens, Gaudí’s richly decorated early house, and allow about 1½ hours for the visit. It’s a lovely change of scale after the park: look closely at the colorful tilework and intricate details. Check the official site for the day’s opening hours and reserve ahead if you can; the walk from the park takes around 15–20 minutes, depending on your route.
Take a proper breather at Plaça del Sol, the neighborhood’s easygoing café-and-terrace hub. Settle in for a coffee or a light bite for about 45 minutes, then enjoy a little unplanned time among Gràcia’s independent shops and side streets. For dinner, La Pepita is nearby and serves inventive tapas and generously filled sandwiches; budget about €25–40 per person. It’s popular, so booking or arriving early is wise, especially if you want an outdoor table.
Start at Museu Picasso in El Born, ideally with a timed ticket for opening time; allow about two hours for the collection, which traces Picasso’s development through his early work. General admission is usually around €12–€15, but check current prices and opening days on the museum’s official site—Monday closures are common, though today is Thursday. Book ahead if you can, and arrive with a little time to spare.
Walk a few minutes to Santa Maria del Mar and spend around 45 minutes inside. Its broad, elegant Gothic interior feels quieter than Barcelona’s major cathedral; entry is often free for worship, with a modest charge for sightseeing or rooftop access, depending on the day. Then stroll to Parc de la Ciutadella for an unhurried hour among the shaded paths and fountains. If you’d like a coffee or snack, the Passeig del Born area is an easy stop on the walk between the church and park.
Make your way back toward Cal Pep in El Born for seafood tapas at the counter. Expect roughly €35–€55 per person before drinks; it’s a popular, lively spot, so go early or be prepared to wait, and ask the staff what’s especially good that day. Keep the rest of the evening flexible—El Born is best enjoyed with a slow wander through its narrow lanes after dinner.
Once you reach Girona, drop your bags at your accommodation; the station is about a 15-minute walk from Barri Vell, or a short taxi ride if you’re carrying luggage. Stay in the old town for atmosphere—Hotel Nord 1901 is a comfortable central option, while Hotel Historic puts you right among the medieval lanes. After checking in, head to Pont de Pedra for an easy first look at the colorful houses along the Onyar River. Give yourself around 30 minutes for the views and photos; the bridge is public and free.
From Pont de Pedra, it’s a few minutes’ walk to Rambla de la Llibertat. Take your time under the arcades, browse the small shops and pause for a coffee or a drink at one of the terraces. It’s a lively place to get your bearings without committing to a packed sightseeing schedule. If you’d like a light lunch, choose a café along the Rambla—save room for dinner, and leave time to check in properly or rest before heading out.
For El Celler de Can Roca in Taialà, take a taxi from the centre; allow roughly 10–15 minutes, depending on traffic. This is a special-occasion meal, not a casual drop-in: reserve well ahead, confirm the menu and current price directly with the restaurant, and plan on several hours at the table. Tasting menus are a significant splurge—budget several hundred euros per person, before drinks—and dietary needs should be raised when booking. Check the return-taxi arrangement with the restaurant or your hotel in advance.
Make Girona Cathedral your first stop while the old town is still quiet. Allow about 1½ hours for the broad nave, cloister and museum; the long staircase is a workout, so take it slowly and pause for the views. Saturday hours are usually generous, but check the cathedral’s official site before you go; admission is roughly €7–€10.
Continue to the Girona Art Museum, housed in the former episcopal palace nearby. Give its Catalan collection around 1½ hours, from Romanesque and Gothic works to more recent art. It’s typically open on Saturdays, with hours often running into the early evening; expect to pay around €6. Then walk a few minutes to the Arab Baths for a 45-minute visit to the graceful Romanesque bathhouse. Entry is usually about €3, and it’s worth checking the day’s closing time so you don’t have to rush.
Have a leisurely lunch at Le Bistrot, whose terrace is a lovely place to try Catalan dishes; budget around €25–€40 per person, and reserve if you want an outdoor table. Afterward, leave the rest of the afternoon open for a slow wander through the lanes and a coffee break—these sights are all close together, so there’s no need to turn the day into a march.
Start with the Passeig de la Muralla, the old-town ramparts. Allow about 1½ hours to follow the walkway above the rooftops, with views across the Barri Vell and out to the surrounding countryside. The route includes plenty of steps and uneven stone, so wear shoes with grip; go at a relaxed pace and bring water, especially if the sun is out. After the walls, take a breather at the Jardins dels Alemanys, a peaceful pocket of greenery beside the old fortifications—give yourself around 30 minutes to sit in the shade and enjoy the quiet.
Continue to Sant Pere de Galligants, a beautiful Romanesque monastery that houses Girona’s archaeology museum. Set aside about an hour for the church and exhibits; opening days and hours can vary, so check the museum’s schedule before setting out. Then wander through the lanes of Barri Vell to La Fabrica Girona for specialty coffee and a light lunch—budget roughly €12–22 per person. It’s popular with cyclists and can get busy around lunchtime, so arrive a little early if you’d like a table. Check current opening hours, particularly if visiting on a Monday.
Head east from the old town to Sant Daniel Valley for an easy countryside walk of around two hours. From the centre, it’s roughly a 20–25-minute walk to the valley; a taxi is handy if you’d rather save your steps. Follow the paths from the monastery area into the green valley, where the city soon gives way to woodland and quiet country lanes. Wear shoes with a bit of grip, and bring water—the route is pleasant rather than strenuous, but shade and facilities are limited once you’re away from town.
Visit Monestir de Sant Daniel, a historic Benedictine monastery in the valley, for about 45 minutes. Check visiting arrangements before setting out: access can be limited by services or the community’s schedule, and opening hours may vary. Afterward, walk back towards the centre; allow around 20–25 minutes, or take a taxi if you’re ready for a break.
Settle in at Plaça de la Independència for a relaxed 45-minute pause. The arcaded square is a good spot for a coffee or a drink and a little people-watching before lunch; cafés around the edges make an easy stop without committing to a long meal. From the square, Casa Marieta is right there, making the transition effortless.
Have dinner at Casa Marieta, known for traditional Catalan cooking. Budget around €25–40 per person before drinks, and consider reserving, especially if you want a particular dinner time. It’s a fitting, unhurried end to the day—order a local dish, then enjoy the square’s lively evening atmosphere.
Start at the Girona Cinema Museum in Barri Vell and give yourself around 1½ hours. Its collection follows the history of moving images from shadow plays and optical toys to early cinema—an engaging change of pace after several days among Girona’s medieval streets. Check the museum’s opening days and hours before setting out, as schedules can vary; admission is usually around €7. From the old-town lanes, it’s an easy walk to the riverside afterward.
Follow the Cases de l’Onyar along the river for about 45 minutes, taking in the brightly painted façades from the bridges and riverside paths. Keep your camera handy, but leave time to simply wander: the view shifts as you cross between Barri Vell and the newer side of town. Then walk east toward Mercat del Lleó in Eixample—roughly 10–15 minutes, depending on your route.
Browse Mercat del Lleó for about an hour. It’s a working local market, best visited before the lunchtime rush; many stalls typically trade in the morning and close in the early afternoon, so check the day’s hours and don’t leave this stop too late. Pick up fruit, cheese or something small from the counters, or settle nearby for lunch. Afterward, stroll back toward Barri Vell for Rocambolesc Girona, the Roca brothers’ playful ice-cream shop. Expect about €5–€10 per person; it’s a fun final treat, and a good excuse to take the rest of the afternoon at an unhurried pace.
Allow roughly 3–4 hours for the train from Girona to Montpellier Saint-Roch, including any connection; direct services and schedules vary, so check Renfe or SNCF Connect when booking. Aim for a morning departure, then leave your bags at your accommodation or in station lockers if your room isn’t ready. Saint-Roch is right by the centre, so you can walk into the Écusson without needing a taxi.
Start at Place de la Comédie, Montpellier’s lively central square. Spend about 45 minutes taking in the grand façades, people-watching and getting your bearings; the Office de Tourisme is nearby if you’d like a map. From there, wander the pedestrian lanes of the Écusson to Église Saint-Roch (about a 10-minute walk). This distinctive neighborhood church is a peaceful stop; check the door for visitor hours, as access can vary around services.
Finish at Café Riche, on Place de la Comédie, for a classic terrace meal and a front-row view of the square as it livens up for the evening. Budget around €20–35 per person; it’s a popular spot, so expect a wait at peak dinner time. Afterward, your accommodation in the Écusson or near Saint-Roch should be an easy walk away.
Start at Musée Fabre in the Écusson, Montpellier’s historic centre. Set aside about two hours for its European and regional art collections; opening days and hours can vary, so check the museum’s official site before you go, and allow roughly €9–€10 for a standard ticket. The galleries are easy to explore at your own pace, and there’s no need to rush through every room.
From the museum, wander west through the old lanes to Promenade du Peyrou—about a 10–15-minute walk. Give yourself an hour to take in the Porte du Peyrou, the château d’eau and the long views towards the countryside. Then head to the nearby Jardin des Plantes de Montpellier, a short walk away. This peaceful garden is one of France’s oldest; an hour is plenty for a relaxed loop. Entry is generally free, but check current visiting hours, as the garden may close on certain days or outside seasonal hours.
Stroll back through the Écusson for dinner at Le Petit Jardin, tucked into a courtyard at 20 Rue Jean-Jacques Rousseau. It’s a lovely spot for Mediterranean cooking in an intimate setting; budget about €30–€45 per person, and reserve ahead if you can. The historic centre is best explored on foot, though Comédie tram stop is handy if you’d rather ride back to your accommodation.
Begin at Cathédrale Saint-Pierre de Montpellier, tucked into the Écusson’s narrow lanes. Its huge stone porch is unlike a typical church entrance, and the Gothic interior is worth a quiet 45-minute look. Entry is generally free; check service times and visitor access before setting out, as worship can affect visiting hours. From here, it’s only a short walk to the Faculté de Médecine de Montpellier. The historic rooms are seen on a guided visit rather than a casual drop-in, so reserve ahead and confirm the tour time and meeting point with the faculty.
Continue on foot through the old centre to the Mikvé médiéval, a remarkably preserved medieval Jewish ritual bath. Visits are guided and places can be limited, so book in advance and check the day’s available slot; allow about 45 minutes. The three stops are close together, but their tour schedules may not line up perfectly—build in a café pause around Place de la Canourgue if you have time between visits. For dinner, La Diligence serves French cooking in a historic setting in the Écusson; expect roughly €35–55 per person. Reserve a table, especially for Friday evening.
Take a taxi or tram and bus out to Château de Flaugergues, east of the centre; allow roughly 20–30 minutes depending on the connection. Set aside about two hours for the château and gardens. Tour times and garden access can vary, so check the château’s official site and book ahead if you want an interior visit. Wear comfortable shoes for the grounds, and note that this is a longer outing than a stroll around the Écusson.
Continue to Marché du Lez in Port Marianne—a short taxi ride or around 20 minutes on foot from the château. Give yourself about 1½ hours to browse the food stalls and creative shops; opening days and hours vary, so check before setting out. Then wander to Bassin Jacques Cœur for an easy 45-minute waterside promenade. The broad paths and modern architecture make a pleasant contrast with the old centre.
Finish at Les Halles du Lez, beside Marché du Lez, and pick from the food counters for dinner. Budget around €15–30 per person, depending on what you order. It’s a relaxed, lively spot rather than a formal sit-down meal, so arrive before the busiest dinner stretch if you want more choice of seats. Trams and taxis connect Port Marianne with the centre; check the evening tram timetable before heading back.
After your morning arrival, drop your bags and head into the walled centre. If you arrive at Avignon Centre, the old town is an easy walk; from Avignon TGV, take the connecting train or a taxi into town. Get your bearings at Place de l’Horloge, the lively main square, and pause for a coffee at one of the terrace cafés—about 45 minutes is enough to soak up the atmosphere before sightseeing.
Walk a few minutes to the Palais des Papes for a roughly two-hour visit through the grand halls, chapels and courtyards. Tickets are typically around €12–€15, with a combined ticket for the palace and nearby sites sometimes available; check current hours and book ahead if you can. The stone rooms can feel cool even on a sunny day, so bring a light layer.
Stay within the city walls for dinner at La Fourchette, near Place de l’Horloge, for Provençal cooking; budget around €30–€45 per person and reserve, especially at weekends. It’s an easy walk from the palace, leaving you time afterward for a gentle stroll through the lit-up lanes rather than another scheduled stop.
Start at the Pont d’Avignon (Pont Saint-Bénézet), an easy walk from the walled centre. Allow about an hour to explore the surviving arches and chapel, and use the audio guide to get the story behind the bridge. Entry is typically around €5–€6; check current hours and ticket details before setting out. Go earlier if you can—the Rhône-side light is lovely, and the bridge is usually quieter before midday.
From the bridge, walk uphill to Rocher des Doms in about 10 minutes. Take an hour to wander its shaded paths and viewpoints over the Rhône, the island of Barthelasse and the surrounding countryside; the garden is free to enter. Then head to Musée du Petit Palais, right by the papal palace quarter, for around 1½ hours among its medieval and Renaissance paintings. Admission is generally about €6, and the museum is often closed on Tuesdays, so confirm its 2027 opening day and hours before planning around it.
Leave a little breathing room after the museum for a relaxed wander through the lanes around Place du Palais before dinner at Restaurant Christian Étienne, beside the palace. Book ahead for its refined Provençal cooking; expect roughly €50–€75 per person before drinks. It’s a polished, leisurely meal, so allow a couple of hours and enjoy the old-town atmosphere on the stroll back afterward.
Head to Les Halles d’Avignon on Place Pie for a light breakfast and a browse through the stalls—look for local cheeses, olives, fruit and pastries. Budget about €10–20 per person. It’s generally open Tuesday to Sunday in the morning, but check the market’s hours before setting out. From here, walk west to Rue des Teinturiers and follow the canal-side lane past its old waterwheels and plane trees; allow about an hour to wander without rushing.
Walk back towards the station for Collection Lambert, housed in two handsome townhouses near Avignon Centre. Give the contemporary art collection around 1½ hours; exhibitions and opening hours vary, so check ahead, and expect standard admission to cost roughly €10–15. For dinner, book L’Agape in the centre for seasonal, locally minded cooking—allow about €35–55 per person before drinks. It’s a pleasant, unhurried finish after a day on foot; reserve ahead, especially for a popular dinner time.
Take a local bus or taxi across the Rhône to Villeneuve-lès-Avignon—allow around 20–30 minutes each way, depending on traffic. The bus is the budget-friendly option; check the day’s route and timetable before setting out, and wear comfortable shoes for the hilltop visit.
Start at Fort Saint-André, allowing about 1½ hours to explore its walls and towers and take in the broad views over Avignon and the Rhône valley. The climb and uneven stone surfaces call for sturdy shoes; check current opening hours and admission before you go, as seasonal schedules can change.
Walk or take a short taxi ride to the Chartreuse de Villeneuve lez Avignon. Set aside about 1½ hours for its courtyards, cloisters and chapels—the complex is extensive, so leave time to pause rather than trying to cover every corner. Check the site’s visitor information for opening times and ticket prices; if you’re hungry, pick up a simple lunch in the village before heading back across the river.
Return to Avignon and settle in before dinner at La Mirande, a special-occasion address in the old town. Expect an elegant Provençal meal at roughly €60–90 per person, before drinks; reservations are wise. Give yourself time to enjoy the setting and a leisurely dinner after your half-day of walking.
Once you’ve reached Lyon, leave your bags at your hotel, then head to Place Bellecour on the Presqu’île. This huge central square is an easy place to get your bearings between the Rhône and Saône; allow about 30 minutes for a look around and a breather after the train. If your hotel is near Part-Dieu, the metro is quickest: take Line B to Saxe–Gambetta, then Line D to Bellecour. A taxi is simpler with luggage.
From Place Bellecour, walk north along Rue de la République for around 20 minutes to Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon, on Place des Terreaux. Give the galleries about two hours, including the sculpture garden, a peaceful courtyard break from the city streets. Standard admission is roughly €8–€12, with discounts and opening days varying; check the museum’s official site before you go. If you arrive on a Tuesday, note that many Lyon museums close that day—confirm the museum’s schedule and adjust your visit if needed.
For dinner, make your way to Café Comptoir Abel in Ainay, south of Bellecour—about a 15-minute walk from the square. It’s a traditional, atmospheric bouchon; expect around €30–€50 per person, and reserve ahead if you can. Order a local specialty and take the meal at an unhurried pace. Afterward, stroll back through the Presqu’île or cross toward Vieux Lyon for a gentle first-night wander.
Take the F2 funicular from Vieux Lyon up to Fourvière—it’s a quick ride and saves you the steep climb. Spend about 1½ hours at Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière: look inside for the mosaics, then step onto the terrace for a sweeping view over the rooftops. Entry to the basilica is free; check access before you go, as services or events can affect visiting. Continue on foot to the Théâtres Romains de Fourvière, a short downhill walk. Allow about an hour to wander the ancient seating and stage; the archaeological site is generally free to enter, though access and hours can vary.
Head down to Vieux Lyon on foot or take the funicular back to the bottom, then leave around 1½ hours for Musée Cinéma et Miniature. Its painstaking miniature rooms and film props make for a fun change of pace; check the museum’s current hours and admission, often roughly €15–€20, before setting off. For dinner, book Les Lyonnais in Vieux Lyon and try a classic bouchon dish such as quenelles or a regional sausage. Expect about €25–€40 per person before drinks; the old-town lanes are cobbled, so comfortable shoes are a good idea.
Start at Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse in Part-Dieu, Lyon’s celebrated indoor food market. It’s usually a good place to graze on oysters, cheese, charcuterie and pastries; allow €20–35 per person. One important date-specific catch: 1 May is a French public holiday, and the Halles may be closed, so confirm directly before setting out. If it is open, arrive around 10:30–11:00 for the best choice and a more relaxed browse.
From the Halles, walk about 10 minutes or take a short taxi ride to Parc de la Tête d’Or in Brotteaux. Give yourself around two hours for an easy circuit by the lake, with time to sit in the gardens rather than trying to cover the whole expansive park. Then visit Lyon Zoo, inside the park; it’s compact and free, and about an hour is plenty. Check the park’s access and zoo hours for the holiday, and wear comfortable shoes—the paths are broad, but there’s a lot of ground to wander.
Head back to Brotteaux for dinner at Le Neuvième Art, a special-occasion splurge known for inventive cooking. Book well ahead and check its holiday service before making plans for 1 May; expect a long, carefully paced meal and a substantially higher bill than lunch. Allow time to return to your accommodation by taxi or public transport afterward, as evening service may run on a holiday schedule.
Head south to Musée des Confluences, at the meeting of the Rhône and Saône. From central Lyon, take tram T1 toward Debourg and get off at Musée des Confluences; the ride from Bellecour takes roughly 15 minutes. Give the striking, angular building and its natural-history and anthropology collections about 2½ hours. Standard admission is usually around €12, but check the museum’s site for current hours and exhibitions before setting out.
Have a relaxed lunch near the museum, then continue on foot through the Confluence district to La Sucrière—around 15–20 minutes along the riverfront. Allow about 1½ hours for its contemporary-art exhibitions; check what’s on and the opening schedule before you go, as exhibitions can vary. Afterwards, make your way back toward central Lyon and spend an easy hour on the Berges du Rhône. Walk or rent a bike for a stretch of the riverside paths; the flat route is a welcome breather after the galleries.
Finish at Brasserie Georges, near Perrache. From the riverbank, take tram T1 toward Debourg to Perrache, or walk roughly 20–25 minutes depending on where you join the path. This grand, lively brasserie is known for its Belle Époque interior and generous traditional dishes; budget about €25–45 per person. Booking ahead is sensible, especially for dinner, and it’s an easy stroll back to the station or onward tram connections afterwards.
After your morning arrival in Dijon, drop your bags at your accommodation in or near the historic centre; from Dijon-Ville, it’s roughly a 15-minute walk or a short taxi ride. Start at the Palais des Ducs et des États de Bourgogne, the city’s grand former ducal palace, and allow about an hour to explore the courtyards and historic rooms. The Musée des Beaux-Arts, inside the palace, is also worth a look if you have time; check current opening hours, as museum access and palace areas can vary.
Next, climb Tour Philippe le Bon, reached from within the palace complex. The guided ascent takes around an hour and rewards you with a fine view over Dijon’s tiled rooftops; tours have limited places, so check availability and reserve ahead if possible. From the palace, it’s only a short walk through the centre to Les Halles de Dijon. The covered market is best enjoyed around lunchtime, but opening days and hours vary—check before heading over. If the stalls are closing, choose a nearby café or bistrot and sample Burgundy cheeses, charcuterie or gougères; budget around €15–25 per person for a casual bite. Then leave the rest of the afternoon free to wander the surrounding streets at an easy pace.
Head back to the Palais des Ducs et des États de Bourgogne for the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Dijon, housed inside the palace. Give it about two hours for the collections and the ducal tombs; check the museum’s current opening days and hours before setting out, as many French museums close one day a week. Entry to the permanent collections is generally free, though temporary exhibitions may cost extra. Afterwards, walk a few minutes through the historic centre to Église Notre-Dame de Dijon. Allow around 45 minutes to admire its Gothic façade and look for the small carved owl on the north side—tradition says to rub it with your left hand for good luck.
Pick up a leaflet or map for the Parcours de la Chouette and follow the numbered owl markers through the old streets; an hour is enough for a relaxed loop, with time to pause for façades and little courtyards. The route is mostly flat, but cobbles call for comfortable shoes. For dinner, book Le Pré aux Clercs on Place de la Libération, right beside the palace. It’s a polished setting for Burgundian cooking; allow about €35–55 per person before drinks, and reserve ahead if you’re visiting at a popular dinner hour.
Start at Musée de la Vie Bourguignonne, a quiet, engaging look at daily life and local traditions in Burgundy. Allow about 1½ hours; it’s south of the historic centre, around a 15–20-minute walk from the palace area. Admission is generally free, though check current opening hours before setting out—many Dijon museums close on Tuesdays, so confirm that it’s open on this date.
Walk a few minutes to the Musée d’Art Sacré de Dijon, set inside the former church of Sainte-Anne. Give its religious art and atmospheric galleries about an hour; admission is usually free. Afterwards, stroll north through the centre to Jardin Darcy, near the station. Its paths and bear sculpture make a pleasant pause; allow around 45 minutes, and pick up a coffee or something small nearby if you fancy lingering.
Head back into central Dijon for dinner at Chez Léon, a relaxed choice for Burgundy specialities. Expect around €25–40 per person; booking is sensible, especially for a popular evening. Try a regional dish and a local glass of wine, and keep the rest of the night unhurried—Dijon’s old streets are lovely for a gentle post-dinner wander.
Head to the Cité Internationale de la Gastronomie et du Vin, a short walk south of Dijon-Ville station and about 15 minutes on foot from the historic centre. Give yourself around two hours to explore Burgundy’s food and wine traditions; exhibitions, tastings and any ticketed experiences can vary, so check the official site for current opening hours and prices. It’s a good place to linger over the region’s flavours rather than trying to cover every display.
Within the complex, stop at the Chapelle des Élus for about 30 minutes. Its ornate interior is a striking change of pace, and it’s an easy visit before continuing south to Parc de la Colombière. Walk there in roughly 25–30 minutes, or take a local bus or taxi if you’d rather save your legs. Spend about an hour and a half wandering the broad, tree-lined paths; it’s a lovely breather after several days in the centre.
Return to the historic centre by bus or taxi, or walk back in around 30 minutes, then settle in at Dr Wine for a Burgundy-focused dinner. Expect roughly €30–50 per person, depending on the wine and how much you order. Ask the staff to guide you through a regional glass or bottle, and book ahead if you have your heart set on a particular evening—the compact wine-bar setting can fill up.
After your morning arrival at Gare de Lyon, continue to your hotel by Metro or taxi, drop your bags and head to Le Marais. For a first night, staying in the Marais puts you close to today’s plans; Saint-Germain-des-Prés is another good base, while anywhere near a Metro station makes getting around straightforward. Leave time to settle in before exploring.
Spend about 45 minutes at Place des Vosges, one of Paris’s loveliest squares. Its arcaded galleries are ideal for a slow lap or a coffee break, and the lawns are a pleasant place to pause if the weather cooperates. Then visit Maison de Victor Hugo, the writer’s former apartment at No. 6 on the square. Allow around an hour; the permanent collection is generally free, but check current opening hours before you go, as it is often closed on Mondays and public holidays.
For dinner, Les Philosophes on Rue Vieille-du-Temple is a dependable choice for classic French bistro cooking; budget about €25–40 per person before drinks. It can get busy, so reserve or arrive early. Afterwards, take an easy wander through the Marais’s small streets, or call it an early night after the travel day.
Book a timed entry at the Musée du Louvre and aim for opening; allow around three hours, choosing a handful of galleries rather than trying to cover the whole museum. Pick up a map at the entrance and decide your highlights in advance—the collection is vast, and it’s easy to spend more time navigating than looking. Tickets are generally around €22, but check the official site for 2027 prices and book ahead. If you’re staying in central Paris, the Palais Royal–Musée du Louvre Metro stop is convenient.
After the museum, step into the Jardin des Tuileries, right outside, for an hour among the tree-lined paths and the green chairs around its fountains. Grab a coffee or a light bite from a garden kiosk, or simply take a breather before continuing west to Place de la Concorde—about a 15-minute stroll through the gardens. Allow half an hour to take in the monumental square and its long perspectives toward the Champs-Élysées and the Louvre; keep an eye on traffic when crossing, as this is a very busy junction.
Walk back east toward the Palais-Royal for dinner at Bistrot Victoires, a relaxed choice for classic French bistro cooking. Expect roughly €25–40 per person before drinks; booking is sensible, especially at the weekend. It’s an easy finish after a full day on your feet, so leave time to wander the nearby arcades before sitting down.
Start at Musée d’Orsay, in the former railway station on the Left Bank. Allow about 2½ hours for the Impressionist galleries—arriving near opening helps you enjoy the highlights before the busiest part of the day. Timed tickets are a good idea; check the museum’s official site for 2027 hours and prices, and note that it’s typically closed on Mondays. If you’re coming from central Paris, the Metro or RER to Musée d’Orsay station is convenient.
Afterward, cross toward Shakespeare and Company in the Latin Quarter. Browse the English-language shelves for around 45 minutes, then grab a simple lunch nearby on Rue de la Huchette or Rue Saint-André-des-Arts. Continue on foot to the Panthéon; allow about 1½ hours to see the grand interior and the crypt, where notable French figures are buried. Check current ticket prices and opening hours before you go.
Walk west through Saint-Germain-des-Prés to Le Procope for dinner, budgeting roughly €35–55 per person before drinks. It’s a historic, atmospheric dining room, so reserve ahead if you can; after a full day on your feet, take your time over dinner rather than trying to fit in another sight.
Start with your timed visit to the Eiffel Tower. Book ahead through the official website, choosing the summit if it’s important to you; lift tickets vary by level, but budget roughly €15–€36. Allow about two hours, including security and the queues, and arrive a little before your slot. The nearest Metro stops are Bir-Hakeim and Trocadéro; the latter gives you a lovely approach across the river, while Bir-Hakeim is more convenient if you’re heading straight to the tower.
Afterward, stroll through the Champ de Mars for around 45 minutes. It’s a pleasant place to take a breather and admire the tower from below; pick up a coffee or something small to eat nearby rather than expecting a full picnic spread from the park kiosks. Then walk or take a short taxi ride to the Musée Rodin in Invalides. Set aside about 1½ hours for the sculpture-filled rooms and garden—check the museum’s opening day and ticket details before you go, as hours can vary. The garden is especially rewarding when the weather is fine.
Finish with dinner at Café Constant on Rue Saint-Dominique, a relaxed neighborhood spot for classic French cooking. It’s a popular choice, so reserve if you can; expect roughly €30–€45 per person before drinks. You’ll be in the 7th arrondissement throughout the day, so there’s no need to rush between stops—leave a little room to wander the side streets around Rue Cler on the way to dinner.
Make an early start on Île de la Cité at Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris. Entry to the cathedral is free; check the official site for visitor arrangements and reserve a time slot if offered, as queues and access rules can change. Dress respectfully and allow around an hour to look inside. From there, it’s only a few minutes on foot to Sainte-Chapelle. Reserve a timed ticket in advance and give yourself about an hour to take in the soaring stained-glass windows; security checks can add time, so arrive a little early.
Continue on foot to the Conciergerie, the former royal palace turned revolutionary prison. Allow roughly 1½ hours for the rooms and exhibits, including the story of Marie Antoinette. A combined ticket with Sainte-Chapelle may be available and can simplify planning; check current prices and entry times before booking. Then settle in for a late lunch at Au Bougnat on Île de la Cité, a traditional bistro for French classics—budget about €30–45 per person. Book ahead if you can, and leave some time afterward to wander the island’s quieter lanes rather than rushing straight on.
Take the Métro to Abbesses and spend about an hour wandering Montmartre before the hill gets busiest. Follow Rue des Abbesses and Rue Lepic, then dip into the quieter lanes around Place Émile-Goudeau; this was the artists’ quarter, but it still feels like a lived-in neighborhood if you step away from the souvenir shops. The streets are steep and often cobbled, so wear comfortable shoes.
Walk uphill to Basilique du Sacré-Cœur for a look inside and time on the steps overlooking Paris; allow about 1½ hours, including the climb and a pause for the view. The basilica is generally free to enter, while access to the dome is ticketed and involves a long staircase—check current opening times and fees before you go. From there, stroll back through the lanes to Musée de Montmartre, where the collections and gardens give a more intimate account of the neighborhood’s artistic past. Set aside around 1½ hours and check the museum’s official site for hours and admission, as these can change.
Finish at Le Coq Rico for its poultry-focused French cooking. It’s a good idea to reserve, especially for dinner; budget roughly €40–60 per person before drinks, and check the current menu and service hours when booking. The restaurant is in Montmartre, so you can settle in without crossing the city after a full day on the hill.
Book an early timed slot at Musée de l’Orangerie in the Tuileries and give yourself about 1½ hours. The oval rooms of Monet’s Water Lilies are the highlight; arrive near opening for a quieter look. Standard admission is roughly €12–€13, but check the museum’s official site for 2027 prices and reserve ahead. Afterward, walk west through the gardens and across Place de la Concorde toward the Champs-Élysées—about 15 minutes on foot.
Spend around 1½ hours at Petit Palais, where the permanent fine-arts collection is generally free; special exhibitions may require a ticket. Don’t miss the airy central courtyard and its café terrace if you fancy a pause. Then continue a few minutes along the Champs-Élysées to Grand Palais. Allow about 1½ hours, checking its official program in advance: exhibitions and events vary, and entry arrangements depend on what’s on.
Stay in the same area for dinner at Le Mini Palais, inside the Grand Palais. It’s a lovely setting for a slower meal after the museums; budget about €35–€55 per person and reserve, especially for a terrace table. If you have energy afterward, take an easy stroll along the nearby Pont Alexandre III for a glittering Seine-side finish.
Head to Canal Saint-Martin for an easy 90-minute wander along the water, bridges and lock gates. Start near Jaurès or République Métro station and follow the towpath past the cast-iron footbridges; the stretch around Quai de Valmy is especially pleasant before the lunchtime crowds. It’s free and open at any time, so there’s no need to rush—pause for a coffee if a waterside terrace catches your eye.
Walk about 15 minutes east to Marché Saint-Quentin, a handsome covered market near Gare de l’Est. Spend around 45 minutes browsing the produce, cheese and prepared-food stalls; it’s a good spot for a small snack, though individual vendors’ schedules can vary. Check opening hours before setting out, as markets may close on certain days or earlier than you expect.
Continue west to Place de la République, about a 15-minute walk. Take half an hour to cross the broad square and watch the neighbourhood bustle around the statue; it’s a useful meeting point and a handy Métro interchange if your feet need a break. Then stroll back toward the canal for a relaxed meal at Chez Prune. Expect roughly €25–40 per person; it’s popular, so arrive a little early or be prepared to wait for a table, and check the day’s service hours before you go.
Start at Palais Garnier in Opéra; book a self-guided visit and allow about 1½ hours to explore the grand staircase, foyers and auditorium. Entry is usually around €15–€20, and access can change when rehearsals or performances are on, so check the official site before you go. From Opéra, it’s only a few minutes on foot to Galeries Lafayette Haussmann.
At Galeries Lafayette Haussmann, look up at the Art Nouveau glass dome, then head to the rooftop terrace for a free city view—weather and opening hours permitting. Give yourself around 1½ hours, including time to browse; it’s a department store, so you can also pick up picnic supplies or a coffee. Walk about 15 minutes south-east to Passage des Panoramas, one of the city’s oldest covered shopping arcades. Allow 45 minutes to browse its little shops and restaurants; it’s a lovely place to duck in if the weather turns.
Finish at Bouillon Chartier on Grands Boulevards for a lively, old-school Paris dinner. Expect roughly €15–€25 per person; it doesn’t usually take reservations, so arriving before the main dinner rush helps avoid a long queue. From Passage des Panoramas, it’s a short walk. The room is part of the experience, and the service is brisk—settle in, order classic French comfort food, and enjoy the bustle.
Make your last full day feel pleasantly local with a browse at Marché d’Aligre, in the 12th arrondissement. The covered market and its lively outdoor stalls are best in the morning; allow about an hour to look for seasonal fruit, cheese, olives and a pastry for breakfast. The food market is generally open Tuesday to Sunday, with hours varying by stall, so go earlier rather than arriving near closing. Take Métro Line 8 to Ledru-Rollin. If you’d like coffee first, Café Aouba nearby is a relaxed neighbourhood stop.
Walk around 15 minutes west to Place de la Bastille, where the July Column stands at the centre of the busy square. It’s a good place to pause and take in the scale of the old revolutionary site; allow about 30 minutes, then continue towards the nearby canal basin. The square itself is free to visit, and the pavements can be crowded, so watch for traffic as you cross.
From the square, head down to Port de l’Arsenal for a quieter final waterside stroll. Follow the paths beside the moored boats for about 45 minutes, taking a seat along the quay if the weather is kind. For your farewell dinner, book Bofinger, just off Bastille: its grand Belle Époque dining room is part of the occasion, and the Alsatian-French menu makes a satisfying last-night meal. Budget around €40–60 per person before drinks; reserve ahead, especially for dinner. Afterward, keep the evening simple and enjoy the short walk back through Bastille.
Take a morning Eurostar from Paris Gare du Nord to London St Pancras International. Allow at least 90 minutes at Gare du Nord for check-in, security and border formalities; fares vary, so book ahead and check your ticket for the exact departure time. The train takes about 2 hours 20 minutes, and London is one hour behind Paris, so you’ll arrive with the afternoon still ahead.
Take about 30 minutes to get your bearings at St Pancras International—the station’s grand Victorian interior is worth a look before you head out. Then walk or take the Tube to The British Museum in Bloomsbury; allow around two hours for highlights such as the Rosetta Stone. General admission is free, but check the museum’s current entry requirements and opening hours before you go. If your train arrives later than planned, keep the museum visit flexible rather than rushing through it.
Return to King’s Cross for dinner at Dishoom King’s Cross, a lively Bombay-inspired restaurant in a converted industrial building. Budget about £25–40 per person; booking ahead is wise, though walk-ins may be possible with a wait. You’ll be close to your arrival station, which makes this an easy first evening in London after a travel day.
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