A 15-Day Backpacking Itinerary Through Portugal, Spain, France, England, Ireland, Italy, and Greece

  • Day 1: Lisbon, Portugal
    Flight to Lisbon, Portugal (2.5 hours)

    Get started on your trip by flying into Lisbon and spending the day exploring the Bairro Alto, a neighborhood with stunning views, interesting bars and restaurants, and colorful street art. In the evening, head to a Fado restaurant to listen to traditional Portuguese music.

  • Day 2: Madrid, Spain
    Train from Lisbon to Madrid (9 hours)

    Start your day at the Museo Nacional del Prado, where you can admire works by Spanish masters like Velazquez and Goya. In the afternoon, visit the Mercado San Miguel for lunch and then take a stroll through El Retiro Park.

  • Day 3: Barcelona, Spain
    Train from Madrid to Barcelona (3 hours)

    Visit the Sagrada Familia, the famous basilica designed by Antoni Gaudí. After lunch, spend the afternoon at Park Guell, another of Gaudí's masterpieces. Take in the city's vibrant nightlife in the evening by heading to the Gothic Quarter.

  • Day 4: Nice, France
    Flight from Barcelona to Nice, France (1.5 hours)

    Stroll down the Promenade des Anglais, a waterfront street that is a symbol of Nice's glamor. Take a walk through the colorful Old Town and visit the open-air flower market. Don't forget to sample some socca, a traditional Niçois snack made from chickpea flour.

  • Day 5: Paris, France
    Train from Nice to Paris (6.5 hours)

    Start with a visit to the Louvre Museum, home to the famous Mona Lisa painting and other masterpieces. In the evening, head to Montmartre for a romantic atmosphere and breathtaking views over the city. End the day with a trip to the Eiffel Tower to experience the City of Light at night.

  • Day 6: London, England
    Train from Paris to London (2 hours)

    Start your day with a traditional English breakfast before visiting the British Museum, home to some of the world's most famous archaeological finds. Afterward, take a stroll through the famous Camden Market for souvenirs and street food. In the evening, watch a play in the West End.

  • Day 7: Dublin, Ireland
    Flight from London to Dublin, Ireland (1.5 hours)

    Begin your day with a visit to the Guinness Storehouse and learn about the world-famous beer. Head to Dublin Castle after lunch, a historic fortress that has played an essential role in Irish history. Finish the day in the Temple Bar district, the city's cultural district, and nightlife hub.

  • Day 8: Rome, Italy
    Flight from Dublin to Rome, Italy (3.5 hours)

    Start with a visit to the Colosseum, the world-famous amphitheater where ancient gladiators battled. Head next to the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill to immerse yourself in the city's history. Finish the day by throwing a coin into the Trevi Fountain for good luck.

  • Day 9: Vatican City
    Train from Rome to Vatican City (20 minutes)

    Spend the day in Vatican City, starting with a visit to St. Peter's Basilica, home to Michelangelo's famous Pieta. Take a stroll through the Vatican Museums before admiring the famous Sistine Chapel.

  • Day 10: Athens, Greece
    Flight from Rome to Athens, Greece (2.5 hours)

    Visit the Acropolis, one of the most recognizable landmarks in Greece, and learn about the ancient history of the country. Afterward, head to the National Archaeological Museum to see artifacts from throughout Greece's history.

  • Day 11: Santorini, Greece
    Flight from Athens to Santorini, Greece (1 hour)

    Spend the day exploring the beautiful island of Santorini. Walk along the cliff paths that offer wonderful views of the ocean before exploring the charming towns and stopping for lunch at a local taverna. End the day by watching the sunset over the iconic blue roofs of Oia.

  • Day 12: Mykonos, Greece
    Ferry from Santorini to Mykonos (3 hours)

    Start your day in Mykonos with a walk through Little Venice, a picturesque neighborhood where the houses hug the water's edge. Visit the Archaeological Museum of Mykonos before lounging on one of the island's many beaches. In the evening, indulge in some nightlife at one of the many clubs.

  • Day 13: Athens, Greece
    Ferry from Mykonos to Athens (5 hours)

    Spend your last day in Athens walking up to the Parthenon and enjoy the views from the top. Take a walk through the Monastiraki Flea Market where you can buy souvenirs and taste local cuisine. End your day admiring the sunset from Mount Lycabettus.

  • Day 14: Athens, Greece
    Free Day in Athens

    Use your last day of the trip to relax and enjoy Athens at your own pace. Consider visiting the Byzantine and Christian Museum, take a food tour or visit some rooftop bars.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Flight to Lisbon: 2.5 hours, $400
  • Train from Lisbon to Madrid: 9 hours, $70
  • Train from Madrid to Barcelona: 3 hours, $50
  • Flight from Barcelona to Nice: 1.5 hours, $60
  • Train from Nice to Paris: 6.5 hours, $90
  • Train from Paris to London: 2 hours, $100
  • Flight from London to Dublin: 1.5 hours, $80
  • Flight from Dublin to Rome: 3.5 hours, $70
  • Train from Rome to Vatican City: 20 minutes, $2
  • Flight from Rome to Athens: 2.5 hours, $100
  • Flight from Athens to Santorini: 1 hour, $30
  • Ferry from Santorini to Mykonos: 3 hours, $80
  • Ferry from Mykonos to Athens: 5 hours, $40
  • Total Estimated Costs: $1,172

Transportation

Transportation costs are not included in the estimated costs. Air travel in Europe is affordable and a great way to save time. In addition, trains are an excellent option to consider to connect the different countries. Always book your tickets in advance for better prices. If you prefer more freedom during your travels, consider renting a car to explore the different cities and countryside. Keep in mind that Europe is also famous for its convenient and fast public transportation systems.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider adding more days to each destination to explore the cities more thoroughly. Alternatively, if you have less time, consider cutting out some activities in each location to make the most of your trip. Keep in mind that some destinations require specific visas and tickets ahead of arrival. Also, do not forget to bring extra cash or credit cards for potential unexpected expenses, and always keep your belongings secure while traveling.

Airports

In Lisbon, the Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS) is 6.9 km northwest of the city center. In Madrid, the Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD) is 13 km northeast of the city center. In Barcelona, the Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN) is 12 km southwest of the city center. In Nice, the Nice Côte d'Azur Airport (NCE) is 7 km southwest of the city center. In Paris, Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) and Orly Airport (ORY) are the two main airports, both located approximately 25 km outside the city center. In London, Heathrow Airport (LHR), Gatwick Airport (LGW), London City Airport (LCY), and Luton Airport (LTN) are the major airports, with Heathrow being the closest to the city center. In Dublin, Dublin Airport (DUB) is 10 km north of the city center. In Rome, the Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport (FCO) is the primary airport, located 32 km southwest of the city center. In Athens, the Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport (ATH) is 20 km east of the city center.

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