Start your Italian vacation right in Rome, the "Eternal City," and visit magnificent landmarks like the Colosseum, the Pantheon, and the Vatican City. Experience the vibrant Italian culture by sampling delicious Italian cuisine and gelato.
In Naples, enjoy the breathtaking view of Mount Vesuvius and explore the ancient and well-preserved ruins of Pompeii. Savor some of Naples' famous "pizza margherita" and indulge in some street shopping at the famous Spaccanopoli market.
Experience the tranquility of Tuscany and immerse yourself in history and art in the picturesque town of Siena. Take a walk around the Piazza del Campo and visit the imposing Siena Cathedral. Savor some Tuscan specialties at the Osteria le Logge.
Continue your Tuscan adventure in the Renaissance city of Florence, where you can visit the beautiful Galleria degli Uffizi and see art from Botticelli and Da Vinci. Climb to the top of the Campanile di Giotto for a panoramic view of the city. Sample some delicious Florentine steak at the La Giostra.
Visit the fashion capital of Italy and see the stunning Duomo di Milano and the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II for some luxury shopping. Take a stroll through the Sforza Castle or visit one of Milan's excellent cultural institutions such as the Pinacoteca di Brera.
In Madrid, visit the magnificently beautiful Palacio Real de Madrid or the atmospheric Prado Museum, home to one of Europe's largest collections of art. Stroll through the Retiro Park or catch a live performance at Teatro Real. Satisfy your hunger at the Casa Botin, which opened in 1725 and is the oldest continuously operated restaurant in the world.
End your trip in Barcelona and visit the world-famous La Sagrada Familia and the stylish Park Guell designed by Gaudi. Catch a football match at Camp Nou or take a stroll through the pedestrian-friendly Barri Gotic. Sample Spanish dishes like paella and tapas at the Bodega 1900.
Traveling by car is the easiest way to get around Italy and Spain. There are several car rental companies available at each city's international airport. The train is also an excellent option and is affordable for all budgets. The rail network connects all major cities and offers a fast and comfortable way of travel. Estimated costs range from €65-100 for car rental, and €50-80 for train travel.
If you have more than 15 days, consider spending more time in Florence or Madrid, as these cities have lots to explore. If you have less time, skip Siena and Milan and fly to Madrid directly from Florence. Remember to book tickets in advance for popular tourist destinations to skip the long lines.
The airports in Italy are Rome-Fiumicino Airport (FCO), Naples International Airport (NAP), Florence Airport (FLR), and Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP). The airports in Spain are Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD) and Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN). All airports are located within close proximity to the city center, and public transportation is available for ease.