14-Day Shoestring Adventure through Italy, Spain, and Greece

Day 1: Explore Ancient Rome

Rome, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Forno Campo de' Fiori

Start the day with fresh pizza bianca and coffee from this local bakery, a Roman classic.
Walk 10 minutes to the Roman Forum.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Roman Forum and Colosseum

Step into the heart of ancient Rome with these iconic landmarks, rich with history.
Entry ticket covers both locations.
EUR16, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Trattoria da Enzo

Savor a delicious carbonara in this cozy eatery that serves authentic Roman cuisine.
Directly walk from the Colosseum.
EUR12, 1 hour

1:00PM

Stroll through Trastevere

Experience the charming streets of this neighborhood filled with cafés and art.
20-minute walk from lunch.
Free, 2 hours

3:00PM

Visit St. Peter's Basilica

Marvel at the grandeur of one of the world's largest churches, filled with Renaissance art.
Take public transport (bus) to Vatican City.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Pizzeria La Montecarlo

Enjoy classic Neapolitan pizza, a local favorite, before wrapping up your first day.
Walk from St. Peter's Basilica.
EUR10, 1 hour
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Day 2: Art and Culture in Rome

Rome, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pastificio Guerra

Grab a quick bite of pasta at this popular spot known for its authenticity.
Short walk to the Trevi Fountain.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Vatican Museums

Explore the vast collection and end your visit with the stunning Sistine Chapel.
Public transport to the Vatican Museums.
EUR17, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Mercato di Testaccio

Experience local food markets where you can taste various Italian specialties.
Take the metro to Piramide.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Pantheon

Stand in awe of this ancient temple, a masterpiece of architectural design.
20-minute walk from lunch.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Relax in Villa Borghese

Wander this beautiful park and admire the sculptures and fountains.
15-minute walk from the Pantheon.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Osteria dell'Ingegno

Enjoy a delightful meal featuring seasonal ingredients and Roman delicacies.
Walk to the restaurant.
EUR15, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Tuscany's Charm

Florence, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Gilli Café

Start your day with a traditional Italian pastry and espresso at this historic café.
Walk to the train station.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Florence

Take a scenic train ride to the heart of Tuscany.
Train ride from Rome to Florence.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Visit the Uffizi Gallery

Discover some of the most significant artworks of the Renaissance period.
Walk from the train station.
EUR15, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Trattoria Mario

Indulge in a hearty Tuscan meal at this bustling, local favorite.
Short walk from Uffizi.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore the Duomo

Climb to the top for panoramic views of Florence after touring this historic cathedral.
Walking distance from lunch.
EUR12, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Osteria Vini e Vecchi Sapori

Savor traditional dishes in a cozy atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing dinner.
Walk through the city.
EUR15, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Florentine Delights

Florence, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pasticceria Nencioni

Enjoy a variety of pastries and coffee to fuel up for the day's adventures.
Walk to the nearby market.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Accademia Gallery

Get mesmerized by Michelangelo’s David—an icon of Renaissance art.
Walk from the market.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Stroll over the Ponte Vecchio

Walk across this famous medieval bridge lined with shops, soaking in the views.
Short walk from the gallery.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at ‘Ino

Try a delicious sandwich made from local ingredients at this informal eatery.
Walk back to the city center.
EUR8, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Boboli Gardens

Enjoy an afternoon in these historic gardens filled with art and beautiful landscapes.
20-minute walk.
EUR10, 2 hours

4:30PM

Dinner at Berberè

Taste unique pizzas with fresh toppings that redefine Italian pizza culture.
A bit of a walk back to the city center.
EUR12, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Venetian Wonders

Venice, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pasticceria Rizzardini

Savor Italian pastries and enjoy a coffee before a day of exploring.
Walk to the Santa Lucia train station.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Venice

Enjoy the scenic train ride to enchanting Venice.
Train ride from Florence to Venice.
EUR25, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit St. Mark’s Basilica

Explore this architectural marvel and its stunning mosaics that tell stories of the past.
Take a Vaporetto to St. Mark's Square.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ristorante da Alberto

Indulge in classic Venetian seafood dishes in a charming atmosphere.
Walk from St. Mark's.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Gondola Ride Experience

Float through the canals and experience Venice from the water during this iconic ride.
Row from the restaurant to the gondola station.
EUR80 (can be shared), 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Osteria alle Testiere

Finish the day with a romantic dinner highlighting local Venetian flavors.
Walk back to the restaurant.
EUR25, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Last Day in Venice

Venice, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Florian

Experience elegance while enjoying a coffee and pastry at this historic café.
Walk through St. Mark's Square.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Doge’s Palace

Explore the opulence of Venetian governance and the history of this iconic building.
Short walk from breakfast.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Walk the Rialto Bridge

Stroll this famous market bridge and enjoy the views along the Grand Canal.
Walk to the bridge from the palace.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Antiche Carampane

Taste the fresh seafood pasta that Venice is famous for in a cozy ambiance.
Walk to the restaurant.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Murano Island

Take a boat to Murano to see stunning glass art and maybe even a glass-blowing demonstration.
Take the Vaporetto to Murano.
EUR20 (round trip), 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Osteria Vini e Vecchi Sapori

Enjoy your final meal in Venice with more local specialties.
Return to Venice via Vaporetto.
EUR15, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Fly to Barcelona

Barcelona, Spain

8:00AM

Breakfast at Alberti

Grab a sandwich or pastry and coffee on your way to the airport.
Walk to the bus terminal.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:00AM

Flight to Barcelona

Fly across the Mediterranean to vibrant Barcelona in just a couple of hours.
Flight direct from Venice to Barcelona.
EUR50, 2 hours

12:00PM

Check into your Hostel

Get settled at a budget-friendly hostel in the city center.
Walk from the airport bus.
EUR30 (per night), 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Cervecería Catalana

Enjoy tapas at this popular spot that's loved by locals and visitors alike.
Short walk from your hostel.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Park Güell

Wander through Gaudí’s colorful and whimsical park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Take the metro from your hostel.
EUR10, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at La Paradeta

Choose fresh seafood and have it cooked right before your eyes in this casual dining space.
Take the bus back to the city center.
EUR20, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Barcelona’s Vibrancy

Barcelona, Spain

8:00AM

Breakfast at Chök

Delight in unique pastries at this chocolate and donut shop to kickstart your day.
Walk from your hostel.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit La Sagrada Familia

Marvel at Gaudí's masterpiece still under construction, with its stunning architecture.
Used the metro.
EUR26, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Bar Tomàs

Have some delicious patatas bravas and other tapas in this laid-back restaurant.
Short walk from Sagrada Familia.
EUR12, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Gothic Quarter

Wander the narrow alleys and discover hidden gems in this historic part of the city.
Walk from lunch.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit Picasso Museum

See an extensive collection of works by the famous artist from his formative years.
Short walk from the Gothic Quarter.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at El Xampanyet

Enjoy a lively atmosphere while tasting local wines and tapas.
Walk from the museum.
EUR20, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Cultural Madrid

Madrid, Spain

8:00AM

Breakfast at La Mallorquina

Enjoy a morning pastry with coffee at this iconic café in Puerta del Sol.
Walk to the train station.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:00AM

Train to Madrid

Experience the fast train that takes you to the capital in no time.
Train from Barcelona to Madrid.
EUR45, 3 hours

12:00PM

Check into your Hostel

Unwind at a budget-friendly hostel in the city center.
Short walk from the train station.
EUR30 (per night), 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Mercado de San Miguel

Taste a variety of Spanish tapas in this vibrant food market atmosphere.
Short walk from your hostel.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Prado Museum

Discover magnificent artwork from the likes of Velázquez and Goya at this impressive museum.
Use the metro.
EUR15, 2.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Taberna La Concha

Enjoy authentic Spanish dishes in a relaxed setting to wind down your day.
Walk back to the hostel.
EUR20, 1.5 hours
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Day 10: Explore Madrid

Madrid, Spain

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café de Oriente

Have a delightful coffee and pastry with views of the Royal Palace.
Walk to the palace.
EUR6, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Royal Palace

Explore the lavish palace that serves as the official residence of the Spanish royal family.
Short walk from the café.
EUR12, 2 hours

11:30AM

Relax at Retiro Park

Enjoy a leisurely stroll or a boat ride in one of the city’s most beautiful parks.
Walk from the palace.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Casa Lucas

Experience traditional tapas in this charming eatery in La Latina.
Walk to La Latina area.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Reina Sofia Museum

Don't miss Picasso’s Guernica at this contemporary art museum.
Use metro.
EUR10, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Sobrino de Botín

Indulge in a unique gastronomical experience at one of the oldest restaurants in the world.
Short walk from the museum.
EUR30, 2 hours
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Day 11: Arriving in Athens

Athens, Greece

8:00AM

Breakfast at a local café

Enjoy a light breakfast with Greek yogurt and honey before traveling.
Walk to the airport bus.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:00AM

Flight to Athens

Fly from Madrid to Athens, landing in the historical heart of Greece.
Direct flight.
EUR100, 3 hours

12:00PM

Check into your Hostel

Settle into a budget-friendly hostel in the Plaka district.
Short walk from the metro station.
EUR25 (per night), 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Ta Karamanlidika Tou Fani

Try traditional Greek delicacies, including cured meats and cheeses, in a cozy atmosphere.
Walk from your hostel.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Acropolis

Walk up to the ancient ruins that overlook the city, including the Parthenon.
Short walk from lunch.
EUR20, 2.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Klimataria

Enjoy authentic Greek flavors in this traditional taverna with live music.
Short walk from the Acropolis.
EUR20, 1.5 hours
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Day 12: Explore Athens

Athens, Greece

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Avissinia

Start your day with coffee and a traditional Greek omelette while enjoying the view of the Acropolis.
Walk from your hostel.
EUR8, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Acropolis Museum

Discover artifacts from the Acropolis at this modern museum that showcases history.
Short walk from breakfast.
EUR10, 2 hours

11:30AM

Stroll through the Ancient Agora

Walk through the ruins of the marketplace from ancient times where philosophers once gathered.
Short walk from the museum.
EUR8, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Avocado

Eat fresh, healthy dishes made from local ingredients in this modern eatery.
Walk from the Agora.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Plaka District

Wander the narrow streets filled with shops and cafes that embody the charm of Athens.
Walk from lunch.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at To Kafeneio

Experience traditional Greek cooking with local wines at this beloved taverna.
Walk from Plaka.
EUR18, 1.5 hours
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Day 13: Island Hopping to Santorini

Santorini, Greece

8:00AM

Breakfast at a local bakery

Grab some pastries and coffee before heading to the ferry.
Walk to the metro for ferry terminal.
EUR4, 1 hour

9:00AM

Ferry to Santorini

Cruise over the Aegean Sea to the stunning island of Santorini.
Direct ferry from Athens to Santorini.
EUR50, 5 hours

2:00PM

Check into your Hotel

Settle in at a budget hotel with great views of the caldera.
Public bus from the port to Fira.
EUR40 (per night), 1 hour

3:00PM

Lunch at Lucky's Souvlakis

Grab a quick, delicious gyro at this popular local spot.
Walk from your hotel.
EUR8, 1 hour

4:30PM

Visit Oia for Sunset

Marvel at one of the most breathtaking sunsets in the world as it sinks into the Aegean.
Catch the local bus from Fira to Oia.
EUR2, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Kastro

Indulge in Greek cuisine overlooking the caldera with stunning views.
Walk from the sunset viewpoint.
EUR25, 2 hours
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Day 14: Relaxing in Santorini

Santorini, Greece

8:00AM

Breakfast at a local café

Enjoy breakfast with a view, featuring fresh fruits and Greek yogurt.
Walk from your hotel.
EUR8, 1 hour

9:00AM

Explore Akrotiri Ruins

Wander through the remains of this ancient Minoan settlement that was preserved in volcanic ash.
Take a local bus from Fira.
EUR12, 2 hours

11:30AM

Relax at the Red Beach

Spend time swimming and lounging on the unique red sands, surrounded by stunning cliffs.
Short walk from the ruins.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Melitini

Enjoy delicious mezze and local delights at this popular taverna with caldera views.
Take the bus back to Fira.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Wine Tasting at Santo Wines

End your journey with a wine tasting featuring Santorini's unique volcanic wines.
Public bus from Fira.
EUR20, 2 hours

5:30PM

Farewell Dinner at Sunset Santorini

Relish your last dinner overlooking the magnificent caldera as the sun sets one last time.
Walk back to your hotel.
EUR30, 2 hours
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