12-Day Family Friendly Itinerary: Exploring Madrid, Spain and Nice, France

Day 1: Arriving in Madrid

Madrid, Spain

8:00 AM

Breakfast at La Mallorquina

Start your day with delightful pastries and hot chocolate from this charming bakery.
Located at Puerta del Sol.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit the Royal Palace

Tour the stunning Royal Palace with its beautiful gardens, perfect for family photos.
Short metro ride from Puerta del Sol.
EUR12, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Mercado de San Miguel

Enjoy a variety of gourmet tapas in a vibrant market atmosphere.
Walking distance from the palace.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Explore Retiro Park

Take a leisurely walk or rent a rowboat in this beautiful park, perfect for relaxation and fun.
Short walk from the market.
Free, 2 hours

3:30 PM

Visit Prado Museum

Discover masterpieces in one of the world's premier art museums.
Walking distance from Retiro Park.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Sobrino de Botín

Dine at the oldest restaurant in the world, known for its roast suckling pig.
A short walk from the museum.
EUR50, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Family Fun in Madrid

Madrid, Spain

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Café de Indias

Enjoy fresh coffee and local pastries at this beloved café chain.
Located near your accommodation.
EUR8, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Day Trip to Parque de Atracciones

Spend a thrilling day at Madrid's amusement park, featuring rides for all ages.
Take the metro to the park.
EUR25 (entrance), 6 hours

4:00 PM

Return to Madrid

Rest and freshen up after a day full of excitement.
Use the metro to return.
Free, 1 hour

5:30 PM

Relax at Plaza Mayor

Enjoy the lively atmosphere of this historic square, ideal for people-watching.
Walk to Plaza Mayor from your hotel.
Free, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Dinner at Casa Lucio

Experience the famous huevos rotos (broken eggs) and other traditional dishes.
Short stroll from the square.
EUR40, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Traveling to Valencia

Valencia, Spain

8:00 AM

Breakfast at La Más Bonita

Feast on delicious breakfast treats and fresh juices before heading to Valencia.
Located centrally in Madrid.
EUR12, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Train to Valencia

Board the high-speed train to Valencia for a swift 1.5-hour journey.
Departing from Madrid's main train station.
EUR25 per person, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Visit City of Arts and Sciences

Spend the afternoon exploring this stunning architectural complex with interactive museums for the kids.
Take public transport from the train station.
EUR40 (multiple attractions), 3 hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at Mercado Central

Experience local treats and tapas while immersing yourself in the vibrant market atmosphere.
Short walk from the City of Arts.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

3:30 PM

Relax at Turia Gardens

Take a leisurely stroll or bike ride through beautiful Turia Gardens, a transformed riverbed turned park.
Easily accessible from the market.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at Restaurante La Pepica

Savor authentic Valencian paella and fresh seafood at this beachfront restaurant.
Located near the beach, short bus ride away.
EUR50, 2 hours
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Day 4: Valencia Culture and Nature

Valencia, Spain

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Panaria

Start your day with fresh bread, pastries, and coffee at a local favorite.
Located near your accommodation.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit the Valencia Cathedral

Discover the stunning architecture of Valencia Cathedral and climb the Miguelete Tower for panoramic views.
Walking distance from breakfast spot.
EUR5, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at El Rall

Experience delicious traditional Spanish food in a cozy setting.
Short walk from the Cathedral.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Explore Albufera Natural Park

Take a boat ride or hike through beautiful wetlands home to diverse wildlife.
Take a local bus from the city center to the park.
EUR15 for the boat, 3 hours

5:30 PM

Visit the Oceanogràfic

Spend the evening at the largest aquarium in Europe, featuring diverse aquatic life.
Easily reachable by public transport.
EUR32, 2 hours

7:30 PM

Dinner at La Bodeguilla

End your day with local wines and tapas in a family-friendly environment.
Not far from your hotel.
EUR40, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Traveling to Barcelona

Barcelona, Spain

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Café de Indias

Start with fresh coffee and pastry before your journey to Barcelona.
Close to your hotel.
EUR8, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Train to Barcelona

Travel northeast to Barcelona, enjoying a scenic 5-hour train ride.
Departing from Valencia's main train station.
EUR45 per person, 5 hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at Cervecería Catalana

Savor a delicious lunch of tapas at this popular spot known for its vibrant atmosphere.
Located centrally in Barcelona, easily reachable by metro.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

3:30 PM

Visit Sagrada Familia

Discover Gaudí's iconic masterpiece and marvel at its stunning architecture.
5-minute walk from lunch.
EUR26, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Relax at Park Güell

Enjoy a leisurely stroll through this colorful park filled with Gaudí's whimsical designs.
Use the metro to get to Park Güell.
EUR10, 2 hours

8:30 PM

Dinner at Can Culleretes

Dine at the oldest restaurant in Barcelona, known for its authentic Catalan cuisine.
Located centrally, easy to access.
EUR60, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Exploring Barcelona

Barcelona, Spain

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Chök

Start your day with delectable pastries and chocolate delights famous for its gourmet doughnuts.
Located in the heart of the Gothic Quarter.
EUR15, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Casa Batlló

Explore Gaudí's fantastical Casa Batlló with its vibrant tiles and organic shapes.
5-minute walk from breakfast spot.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Chill at the Beach

Unwind at Barceloneta Beach, letting the kids play in the sand while parents relax in the sun.
Take the metro to Barceloneta.
Free, 3 hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at La Barceloneta

Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the beachside restaurants.
Walking distance from the beach.
EUR45, 1.5 hours

3:30 PM

Visit Montjuïc

Take a cable car ride to Montjuïc for stunning city views and explore the Olympic Park.
Take the metro to the cable car station.
EUR15 for cable car, 3 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at El Nacional

Experience diverse Spanish cuisines in a unique setting perfect for families.
Located near Passeig de Gràcia, accessible by metro.
EUR70, 2 hours
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Day 7: Traveling to Nice

Nice, France

8:00 AM

Breakfast at La Mansa

Delight in delicious breakfast pastries and coffee before heading to France.
Located close to your hotel.
EUR12, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Flight to Nice

Catch a direct flight from Barcelona to Nice, approximately 1.5 hours.
Barcelona El Prat Airport is easily reachable by taxi or metro.
EUR70 per person, 2 hours

11:30 AM

Lunch at La Petite Maison

Enjoy Mediterranean dishes at this famous restaurant in Nice.
Located near the Promenade des Anglais.
EUR60, 1.5 hours

1:00 PM

Relax at Promenade des Anglais

Take a stroll along this beautiful seafront promenade and soak in stunning views.
Walking distance from lunch.
Free, 2 hours

3:00 PM

Visit Castle Hill

Hike up Castle Hill for panoramic views of Nice and the coastline.
Walk up from Promenade des Anglais.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Explore Old Town (Vieux Nice)

Discover charming streets filled with vibrant shops, markets, and cafes.
Short walk from Castle Hill.
Free, 2 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Le Safari

Indulge in traditional Niçois dishes right in the heart of Vieux Nice.
Located centrally in Old Town.
EUR45, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Exploring Nice

Nice, France

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Café de Turin

Start your day with fresh pastries and coffee at this renowned café known for seafood.
Located close to the port.
EUR15, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Marc Chagall National Museum

Discover vibrant works of Marc Chagall at this delightful museum.
Take a tram from the port.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Walk in Place Masséna

Explore the stunning square filled with beautiful fountains and art.
Tram back to the city center.
Free, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at Boulangerie Pâtisserie Miette

Enjoy artisanal pastries and sandwiches at this local bakery.
Short walk from Place Masséna.
EUR20, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Relax at Nice's Beaches

Unwind at Nice's beautiful pebble beaches, allowing the kids to play in the sea.
Easy access from the bakery.
Free, 2 hours

3:30 PM

Discover the Russian Orthodox Cathedral

Admire the stunning architecture of this unique landmark in Nice.
A short walk from the beach.
Free, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Explore Cours Saleya Market

Wander through this lively market filled with flowers, spices, and local delicacies.
A stroll from the cathedral.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Chez Pipo

Enjoy an authentic Niçois dining experience with local dishes like socca and ratatouille.
Located not far from the market.
EUR35, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Day Trip to Eze and Monaco

Nice, France

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Boulangerie Louis

Start the day with fresh baguettes and pastries from this local bakery.
Close to your accommodation.
EUR8, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit the Village of Eze

Explore the enchanting medieval village of Eze, perched atop a hill overlooking the coast.
Take a bus from Nice to Eze.
EUR5, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Visit Fragonard Perfume Factory

Take a guided tour of this famous perfume factory in Eze and learn about the art of scent-making.
Walking distance from the village center.
Free, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at La Chèvre d'Or

Dine at this luxurious restaurant known for breathtaking views and gourmet cuisine.
Located in Eze, reservation recommended.
EUR100, 2 hours

3:00 PM

Travel to Monaco

After lunch, make your way to Monaco for an afternoon of exploration.
Catch a bus to Monaco's Monte Carlo.
EUR10, 30 minutes

3:30 PM

Explore Monte Carlo Casino

Visit the famous Casino de Monte-Carlo, known for its stunning architecture and glamour.
Walking distance from the bus stop.
Free to enter, unless visiting inside., 1 hour

5:00 PM

Stroll at the Exotic Garden

Enjoy the beautiful botanical garden with stunning views of the Mediterranean sea.
A short walk from the casino.
EUR8, 1.5 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Café de Paris

End the day with a meal at this renowned restaurant, reminiscent of French elegance.
Located nearby the casino.
EUR70, 1.5 hours
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Day 10: Exploring Nice

Nice, France

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Angelina

Indulge in a luxurious breakfast at this iconic café known for its hot chocolate and pastries.
Centrally located in Nice.
EUR20, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Matisse Museum

Gain insight into Henri Matisse's artwork and the museum's beautiful gardens.
Take a taxi or tram from the center.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Stroll in Promenade du Paillon

Wander this beautiful park with fountains and playgrounds for kids.
Return to the city center for easy access.
Free, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at Le Voyageur Nissart

Enjoy local specialties in a charming and homey restaurant atmosphere.
Short walk from the park.
EUR25, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Relax at Nice's Beaches

Unwind at Nice's beautiful pebble beaches, allowing the kids to play in the sea.
Easy access from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

3:30 PM

Explore Cours Saleya Market

Wander through this lively market filled with flowers, spices, and local delicacies.
Located near the beachfront.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Visit Nice Observatory

Enjoy stunning views of the city and the sea from this historic observatory.
Short taxi ride from the market.
EUR8, 1.5 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at La Plancha

Dine at this beachfront restaurant known for grilled dishes and seafood.
Located close to the beach.
EUR50, 1.5 hours
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Day 11: Day Trip to Villefranche-sur-Mer

Nice, France

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Les Bains Douches

Start your day with delicious French pastries and coffee.
Located nearby your hotel.
EUR15, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Travel to Villefranche-sur-Mer

Catch a train to the picturesque coastal town of Villefranche-sur-Mer.
Direct train from Nice to Villefranche.
EUR5, 30 minutes

10:00 AM

Relax at the Beach

Spend the morning on the beautiful beaches of Villefranche, ideal for swimming and playing.
Walking distance from the train station.
Free, 2.5 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at La Mère Germaine

Savor fresh seafood while enjoying stunning views of the bay.
Close to the beach.
EUR50, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Visit Fort Saint-Elme

Explore this historic fortress and enjoy panoramic views of the coastline.
A short walk from the restaurant.
EUR8, 1.5 hours

3:30 PM

Discover Villefranche's Old Town

Stroll the charming streets filled with colorful buildings and quaint shops.
Walking distance from the fort.
Free, 1 hour

4:30 PM

Return to Nice

Take the train back to Nice to unwind after your day.
Short walk to the train station.
EUR5, 30 minutes

5:00 PM

Explore Nice

Enjoy a leisurely evening exploring more of Nice at your own pace.
Use optional recommendations to explore nearby areas.
Free, 2 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Le Bistro du Pêcheur

Indulge in local cuisine focusing on fresh produce from the surrounding region.
Located in a central area of Nice.
EUR45, 1.5 hours
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Day 12: Departure from Nice

Nice, France

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Angelina

Indulge in a luxurious breakfast at this iconic café known for its hot chocolate and pastries.
Centrally located in Nice.
EUR20, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Last-minute Shopping at Avenue Jean Médecin

Take a relaxing stroll down Nice's main shopping avenue for souvenirs.
A short walk from breakfast.
Free, depending on purchases, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Chez Rene Socca

Enjoy a final meal of local specialties like socca and salades niçoises before you leave.
Close to the shopping area.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Transport to Nice Airport

Head to the airport for your departure, reflecting on your fantastic journey.
Book a taxi or use public transport, based on your schedule.
EUR30, 1 hour
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