City Experiences & Cultural Immersion Rail/Train Trip: London, Paris, Bordeaux, Toulouse, Barcelona, Valencia, Malaga, Madrid

Day 1: London Exploration

London, UK

8:00AM

Visit Buckingham Palace

Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Buckingham Palace, where you can witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
From your accommodation, take the tube to Green Park station near Buckingham Palace. Approximately 30 minutes travel time.
Free entry, paid tours available, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore the British Museum

Immerse yourself in history and culture at the British Museum, home to a vast collection of artifacts from around the world.
Take the tube from Green Park to Tottenham Court Road station for the British Museum. Approximately 20 minutes travel time.
Free entry, donations appreciated, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Borough Market

Savor a variety of delicious food options at Borough Market, a renowned food market offering diverse culinary delights.
Walk from the British Museum to Borough Market. Approximately 15 minutes travel time.
$$, 1 hour

3:30PM

Explore Tower of London

Discover the rich history of the Tower of London, home to the Crown Jewels and centuries of intriguing stories.
Take the tube from Borough Market to Tower Hill station for the Tower of London. Approximately 25 minutes travel time.
Paid entry, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Shard

Enjoy a panoramic dining experience at The Shard, offering stunning views of the city skyline during sunset.
Take a taxi from the Tower of London to The Shard. Approximately 15 minutes travel time.
$$$, 2 hours
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Day 2: London Cultural Day

London, UK

9:00AM

Visit the Tate Modern

Explore contemporary art at the Tate Modern, housed in a former power station with impressive exhibitions and views of the Thames.
Take the tube from your accommodation to Southwark station for the Tate Modern. Approximately 20 minutes travel time.
Free entry, special exhibitions may have fees, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Covent Garden

Indulge in a meal at Covent Garden, a vibrant area filled with street performers, shops, and diverse dining options.
Walk from the Tate Modern to Covent Garden. Approximately 10 minutes travel time.
$$, 1 hour

1:30PM

Tour Shakespeare's Globe Theatre

Step back in time with a guided tour of Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, a faithful reconstruction of the Bard's original playhouse.
Walk from Covent Garden to the Globe Theatre. Approximately 15 minutes travel time.
Paid entry, tours available, 2 hours

4:00PM

Stroll through Hyde Park

Relax in the picturesque surroundings of Hyde Park, one of London's largest royal parks with serene landscapes and attractions.
Take the tube from the Globe Theatre to Hyde Park Corner station for Hyde Park. Approximately 20 minutes travel time.
Free entry, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Clos Maggiore

Dine at Clos Maggiore, known for its romantic ambiance and exquisite French cuisine, perfect for a memorable evening.
Take a taxi from Hyde Park to Clos Maggiore. Approximately 15 minutes travel time.
$$$, 2 hours
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Day 3: Historical London

London, UK

9:00AM

Explore Westminster Abbey

Delve into the history of Westminster Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with royal coronations, weddings, and memorials.
Take the tube from your accommodation to Westminster station for Westminster Abbey. Approximately 20 minutes travel time.
Paid entry, guided tours available, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit the Houses of Parliament

Admire the iconic Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, symbols of British democracy and architectural grandeur.
Walk from Westminster Abbey to the Houses of Parliament. Approximately 10 minutes travel time.
Free entry, tours available, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Gordon Ramsay's Heddon Street Kitchen

Indulge in a culinary experience at Gordon Ramsay's Heddon Street Kitchen, offering modern British cuisine in a stylish setting.
Walk from the Houses of Parliament to Heddon Street Kitchen. Approximately 15 minutes travel time.
$$$, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Churchill War Rooms

Immerse yourself in the underground world of the Churchill War Rooms, where Winston Churchill led Britain during WWII.
Walk from Heddon Street Kitchen to the Churchill War Rooms. Approximately 10 minutes travel time.
Paid entry, audio guides available, 2 hours

5:00PM

Shopping at Harrods

Indulge in luxury shopping at Harrods, an iconic department store offering a wide range of designer and exclusive products.
Take the tube from the Churchill War Rooms to Knightsbridge station for Harrods. Approximately 20 minutes travel time.
$$-$$$, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Sketch

Experience innovative cuisine and artistic decor at Sketch, a renowned restaurant with a unique dining concept.
Take a taxi from Harrods to Sketch. Approximately 15 minutes travel time.
$$$, 2 hours
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Day 4: Parisian Charm

Paris, France

8:00AM

Visit the Louvre Museum

Begin your Parisian adventure with a visit to the Louvre Museum, home to famous masterpieces like the Mona Lisa.
Travel from London to Paris via high-speed rail. Check out from your accommodation and take a taxi to London St Pancras International for your train journey. Approximately 2.5 hours travel time.
Paid entry, audioguides available, 3 hours

11:30AM

Stroll along the Seine River

Enjoy a leisurely walk along the picturesque Seine River, passing by iconic landmarks like Notre Dame Cathedral.
Walk from the Louvre Museum to the Seine River. Approximately 20 minutes travel time.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Le Marais

Savor a delicious French meal in the historic district of Le Marais, known for its charming streets and culinary delights.
Walk from the Seine River to Le Marais. Approximately 15 minutes travel time.
$$, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Montmartre

Discover the artistic vibes of Montmartre, visit the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, and explore the vibrant streets of this bohemian neighborhood.
Take the metro from Le Marais to Montmartre. Approximately 30 minutes travel time.
Free entry, 2 hours

5:00PM

Shop on Champs-Élysées

Indulge in luxury shopping on the famous Champs-Élysées avenue, home to designer boutiques and flagship stores.
Take the metro from Montmartre to Champs-Élysées. Approximately 20 minutes travel time.
$$-$$$, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Le Jules Verne

Dine at Le Jules Verne, located in the Eiffel Tower, offering gourmet French cuisine and breathtaking views of Paris.
Take a taxi from Champs-Élysées to the Eiffel Tower. Approximately 15 minutes travel time.
$$$, 2 hours
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Day 5: Art and Wine in Bordeaux

Bordeaux, France

9:00AM

Visit the Cité du Vin

Embark on a journey through the world of wine at the Cité du Vin, an interactive museum celebrating the culture of wine.
Travel from Paris to Bordeaux by high-speed rail. Start your day with a visit to the Cité du Vin upon arrival. Approximately 2 hours travel time.
Paid entry, wine tasting experiences available, 3 hours

12:00PM

Wine Tasting in Saint-Émilion

Experience a wine tasting session in the charming village of Saint-Émilion, known for its vineyards and historic architecture.
Take a short train ride to Saint-Émilion. Approximately 45 minutes travel time.
$$$, 2 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at Le Bouchon Bordelais

Enjoy a traditional French meal at Le Bouchon Bordelais, a cozy bistro offering regional specialties and local wines.
Walk to Le Bouchon Bordelais. Approximately 10 minutes travel time.
$$, 1 hour

4:00PM

Explore Place de la Bourse

Marvel at the beauty of Place de la Bourse, a stunning square reflecting in the Miroir d'Eau, creating a magical atmosphere.
Walk to Place de la Bourse. Approximately 15 minutes travel time.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Wine Tasting Cruise on the Garonne River

Embark on a scenic wine tasting cruise along the Garonne River, enjoying Bordeaux's landscapes and local wines onboard.
Walk to the river cruise departure point. Approximately 20 minutes travel time.
$$$, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at La Brasserie Bordelaise

Indulge in a gastronomic experience at La Brasserie Bordelaise, known for its exquisite French cuisine and warm ambiance.
Walk to La Brasserie Bordelaise. Approximately 10 minutes travel time.
$$$, 2 hours
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Day 6: Toulouse Highlights

Toulouse, France

9:00AM

Visit Basilique Saint-Sernin

Start your day with a visit to the Basilique Saint-Sernin, a stunning Romanesque church and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Travel from Bordeaux to Toulouse by high-speed rail. Take a short walk or bus ride to Basilique Saint-Sernin upon arrival. Approximately 15 minutes travel time.
Free entry, donations appreciated, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Musée des Augustins

Discover art and sculptures at the Musée des Augustins, housed in a former Augustinian monastery with a diverse collection.
Walk to Musée des Augustins. Approximately 10 minutes travel time.
Paid entry, discounts available, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Marché Victor Hugo

Enjoy a culinary journey at Marché Victor Hugo, a bustling market offering fresh produce, local delicacies, and gourmet food stalls.
Walk to Marché Victor Hugo. Approximately 5 minutes travel time.
$$, 1 hour

2:30PM

Walk along the Garonne River

Stroll along the picturesque banks of the Garonne River, taking in the scenic views and vibrant atmosphere of Toulouse.
Walk to the Garonne River. Approximately 15 minutes travel time.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Visit Capitole de Toulouse

Admire the grandeur of Capitole de Toulouse, the city's town hall and a symbol of Toulouse's architectural beauty and heritage.
Walk to Capitole de Toulouse. Approximately 10 minutes travel time.
Free entry, guided tours available, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Les Jardins de l'Opéra

Dine at Les Jardins de l'Opéra, a charming restaurant offering French cuisine with a view of the opera house, perfect for a delightful evening.
Walk to Les Jardins de l'Opéra. Approximately 5 minutes travel time.
$$$, 2 hours
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Day 7: Barcelona Delights

Barcelona, Spain

9:00AM

Visit Sagrada Família

Embark on a journey of awe at the Sagrada Família, Antoni Gaudí's masterpiece cathedral blending nature and architecture in a unique way.
Travel from Toulouse to Barcelona by high-speed rail. Start your day with a visit to the Sagrada Família upon arrival. Approximately 3 hours travel time.
Paid entry, skip-the-line tickets recommended, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Park Güell

Discover the whimsical Park Güell, a UNESCO site filled with Gaudí's colorful mosaic work, unique structures, and panoramic views of Barcelona.
Take the metro from the Sagrada Família to Park Güell. Approximately 30 minutes travel time.
Paid entry for certain areas, free for park visit, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at La Boqueria Market

Indulge in a culinary experience at La Boqueria Market, a bustling food market offering fresh produce, tapas, and local delicacies.
Walk to La Boqueria Market. Approximately 10 minutes travel time.
$$, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Gothic Quarter

Wander through the labyrinthine streets of the Gothic Quarter, discovering historic buildings, charming plazas, and hidden gems.
Walk to the Gothic Quarter. Approximately 15 minutes travel time.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Visit Casa Batlló

Admire the architectural marvel of Casa Batlló, one of Gaudí's masterpieces with its colorful facade and innovative design elements.
Walk to Casa Batlló. Approximately 10 minutes travel time.
Paid entry, audio guides available, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Tickets

Experience a culinary spectacle at Tickets, an avant-garde tapas bar by Ferran Adrià, offering creative dishes in a lively atmosphere.
Walk to Tickets. Approximately 5 minutes travel time.
$$$, 2 hours
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Day 8: Valencia Discovery

Valencia, Spain

9:00AM

Visit City of Arts and Sciences

Start your day at the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences, an architectural wonder with interactive exhibits and cultural spaces.
Travel from Barcelona to Valencia by high-speed train. Proceed with a visit to the City of Arts and Sciences upon arrival. Approximately 3 hours travel time.
Paid entry to certain attractions, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Central Market

Enjoy a gastronomic experience at Central Market, one of Europe's oldest food markets with a vibrant atmosphere and local delicacies.
Walk to Central Market. Approximately 10 minutes travel time.
$$, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Old Town Valencia

Stroll through the historic streets of Old Town Valencia, discovering landmarks like the Valencia Cathedral and Plaza de la Virgen.
Walk to Old Town Valencia. Approximately 15 minutes travel time.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Oceanogràfic

Immerse yourself in marine life at Oceanogràfic, the largest aquarium in Europe, featuring diverse aquatic ecosystems and species.
Take a short walk or bus ride to Oceanogràfic. Approximately 20 minutes travel time.
Paid entry, combination tickets available, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at La Pepica

Indulge in authentic paella at La Pepica, a renowned restaurant on the beachfront known for its traditional Valencian cuisine.
Walk to La Pepica. Approximately 10 minutes travel time.
$$-$$$, 2 hours
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Day 9: Malaga Relaxation

Malaga, Spain

10:00AM

Visit Alcazaba of Malaga

Begin your day with a visit to the Alcazaba of Malaga, a Moorish fortress offering panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean.
Travel from Valencia to Malaga by high-speed train. Start your day with a visit to the Alcazaba upon arrival. Approximately 3.5 hours travel time.
Paid entry, guided tours available, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Atarazanas Market

Savor local seafood and Andalusian specialties at Atarazanas Market, a vibrant food market showcasing the flavors of Malaga.
Walk to Atarazanas Market. Approximately 10 minutes travel time.
$$, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Picasso Museum

Discover the art of Picasso at the Picasso Museum, housed in a historic palace and showcasing the master's diverse works.
Walk to Picasso Museum. Approximately 5 minutes travel time.
Paid entry, audio guides available, 2 hours

4:00PM

Relax at Malagueta Beach

Unwind at Malagueta Beach, soaking up the sun and enjoying the Mediterranean Sea with views of the Castillo de Gibralfaro.
Walk to Malagueta Beach. Approximately 20 minutes travel time.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Visit El Pimpi

Experience Malaga's nightlife at El Pimpi, a famous bodega offering local wines, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Walk to El Pimpi. Approximately 15 minutes travel time.
$$, 2 hours
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Day 10: Madrid Majesty

Madrid, Spain

9:00AM

Visit Prado Museum

Immerse yourself in art at the Prado Museum, home to one of the finest collections of European art with works by Goya, Velázquez, and more.
Travel from Malaga to Madrid by high-speed train. Begin your day with a visit to the Prado Museum upon arrival. Approximately 2.5 hours travel time.
Paid entry, audioguides available, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Mercado de San Miguel

Enjoy a culinary experience at Mercado de San Miguel, a historic market offering gourmet tapas, Spanish delicacies, and wines.
Walk to Mercado de San Miguel. Approximately 5 minutes travel time.
$$, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Retiro Park

Relax in the beautiful surroundings of Retiro Park, a historic park with gardens, sculptures, a boating lake, and cultural events.
Walk to Retiro Park. Approximately 15 minutes travel time.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Shop at Gran Vía

Indulge in shopping along Gran Vía, Madrid's famous shopping street lined with fashion boutiques, theaters, and iconic buildings.
Walk to Gran Vía. Approximately 10 minutes travel time.
$$-$$$, 2 hours

6:30PM

Visit Royal Palace of Madrid

Admire the opulence of the Royal Palace of Madrid, the official residence of the Spanish royal family and a symbol of Spanish royalty.
Walk to the Royal Palace. Approximately 15 minutes travel time.
Paid entry, audio guides available, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Botín

Dine at Botín, the world's oldest restaurant with a cozy atmosphere and traditional Spanish dishes like suckling pig and lamb.
Walk to Botín. Approximately 10 minutes travel time.
$$-$$$, 2 hours
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Day 11: Day Trip to Toledo

Madrid, Spain

8:00AM

Travel to Toledo

Embark on a day trip to Toledo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its medieval architecture, fortress, and El Greco's artworks.
Take a morning train from Madrid to Toledo. Approximately 30 minutes travel time.
Paid train tickets, Full day trip

10:00AM

Explore Toledo Cathedral

Visit Toledo Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture housing stunning artworks, sculptures, and religious relics.
Walk to Toledo Cathedral. Approximately 15 minutes travel time.
Paid entry, audio guides available, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Bodega La Mancha

Enjoy traditional Spanish cuisine at Bodega La Mancha, a local restaurant serving dishes like tapas, paella, and regional wines.
Walk to Bodega La Mancha. Approximately 10 minutes travel time.
$$, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Alcázar of Toledo

Explore the Alcázar of Toledo, a historic fortress with military museum, impressive views of the city, and rich medieval history.
Walk to Alcázar of Toledo. Approximately 5 minutes travel time.
Paid entry, guided tours available, 2 hours

4:30PM

Shop for Damascene Ware

Discover Toledo's craftsmanship with a shopping experience for Damascene Ware, intricate metalwork with Arab and Spanish influences.
Walk to a local Damascene Ware shop. Approximately 10 minutes travel time.
$-$$$, 1 hour

6:00PM

Return to Madrid

Take an evening train back to Madrid, enjoying the scenic views of the Spanish countryside during the journey.
Take a train from Toledo to Madrid. Approximately 30 minutes travel time.
Paid train tickets, Evening return
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Day 12: Culinary Experience in Madrid

Madrid, Spain

9:00AM

Visit San Miguel Market

Start your day at San Miguel Market, a gourmet food market offering a wide range of Spanish delicacies, tapas, and fresh produce.
Walk to San Miguel Market. Approximately 5 minutes travel time.
$$, 2 hours

11:00AM

Attend a Cooking Class

Participate in a hands-on cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Spanish dishes like paella and sangria from local chefs.
Travel to the cooking class venue via public transportation. Approximately 20 minutes travel time.
$$$, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch with Sangria Tasting

Enjoy the fruits of your labor with a delicious lunch featuring the dishes you prepared, paired with a tasting of different Sangria varieties.
Savor your lunch at the cooking class venue. Approximately 2 hours
$$, 2 hours

4:00PM

Explore Chueca District

Take a leisurely walk through the vibrant Chueca District, known for its LGBTQ+ scene, eclectic shops, and trendy cafes.
Walk to Chueca District. Approximately 15 minutes travel time.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Tapas Crawl in La Latina

Experience a traditional tapas crawl in La Latina, hopping between local bars to sample a variety of delicious small plates and drinks.
Walk to La Latina. Approximately 20 minutes travel time.
$-$$, 2 hours
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Day 13: Historical Exploration in Madrid

Madrid, Spain

9:00AM

Visit El Retiro Park

Begin your day with a visit to El Retiro Park, a tranquil oasis in the heart of Madrid with gardens, fountains, and the Crystal Palace.
Walk to El Retiro Park. Approximately 10 minutes travel time.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Tour Reina Sofía Museum

Explore contemporary art at the Reina Sofía Museum, home to works by Picasso, Dalí, and other notable Spanish artists.
Walk to Reina Sofía Museum. Approximately 15 minutes travel time.
Paid entry, special exhibitions may have fees, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Mercado San Antón

Enjoy a diverse culinary experience at Mercado San Antón, a modern food market offering gourmet options and rooftop dining.
Walk to Mercado San Antón. Approximately 10 minutes travel time.
$$, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Royal Botanical Garden

Wander through the lush greenery of the Royal Botanical Garden, a hidden gem near the Prado Museum with diverse plant species.
Walk to Royal Botanical Garden. Approximately 5 minutes travel time.
Paid entry, guided tours available, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Visit Temple of Debod

Admire the sunset at the Temple of Debod, an ancient Egyptian temple relocated to Madrid, offering panoramic views of the city.
Walk to Temple of Debod. Approximately 10 minutes travel time.
Free entry, 1 hour

7:00PM

Farewell Dinner at DiverXO

Indulge in a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience at DiverXO, a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its innovative and creative cuisine.
Take a taxi to DiverXO. Approximately 15 minutes travel time.
$$$$, 3 hours
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Day 14: Departure Day

Madrid, Spain

9:00AM

Last-Minute Shopping

Take the morning to do some last-minute shopping in Madrid, picking up souvenirs, local specialties, or gifts for loved ones.
Explore shopping areas near your accommodation. Approximately 2 hours
$-$$$, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum

Discover the art collection at the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, featuring works from Renaissance to contemporary masters.
Take a short walk or transport to Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum. Approximately 15 minutes travel time.
Paid entry, audioguides available, 2 hours

1:30PM

Farewell Lunch at Sobrino de Botín

Enjoy a final meal at Sobrino de Botín, the oldest restaurant in the world, serving classic Spanish dishes in a historic setting.
Walk to Sobrino de Botín. Approximately 10 minutes travel time.
$$$, 2 hours

3:30PM

Explore Puerta del Sol

Stroll through Puerta del Sol, one of Madrid's central squares, known for its bustling atmosphere, street performers, and iconic landmarks.
Walk to Puerta del Sol. Approximately 5 minutes travel time.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Transfer to Airport

Bid farewell to Spain as you transfer to Madrid Barajas Airport for your departure, reminiscing about the wonderful memories made on this journey.
Take a taxi or public transportation to the airport. Approximately 30 minutes travel time.
Transportation cost to the airport, 1 hour
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