14-Day European Odyssey: Istanbul to Barcelona

Day 1: Explore Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

9:00AM

Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Sofrası

Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast featuring menemen and olives at this locals’ favourite spot.
Located in the Beşiktaş district, a short walk from public transport.
TRY150, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Hagia Sophia

Visit this iconic masterpiece that has stood the test of time as a museum, showcasing stunning Byzantine architecture.
Take a tram from Beşiktaş to Sultanahmet.
TRY200, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Doy Doy Restaurant

Savor the flavour of Turkish kebabs and pide for lunch at this charming eatery with a view.
Located a short walking distance from Hagia Sophia.
TRY120, 1 hour

2:30PM

Topkapi Palace

Wander through the opulent halls and lush gardens of this former residence of Ottoman sultans.
Just a short walk from the restaurant.
TRY300, 2 hours

5:00PM

Bosphorus Cruise

Enjoy a relaxing sunset cruise along the Bosphorus, taking in stunning views of palaces and the city skyline.
Catch the cruise from Eminönü pier.
TRY250, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Galip Dede Restaurant

End your day with delicious mezes and traditional fish dishes at a local favourite on Galata Bridge.
Easily accessible by taxi from the pier.
TRY300, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Istanbul Highlights

Istanbul, Turkey

8:30AM

Breakfast at MOC Turkish Coffee

Begin your day with a strong cup of Turkish coffee and baklava at this trendy spot.
Located in the Galata area.
TRY100, 1 hour

10:00AM

Blue Mosque

Marvel at the stunning blue tiles and incredible architecture of this active mosque.
Short walk from MOC.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Explore the Grand Bazaar

Dive into the vibrant atmosphere of this historic market, perfect for souvenir shopping.
Just a few minutes' walk from the Blue Mosque.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Hamdi Restaurant

Relish famous kebabs with stunning views of the Golden Horn from this rooftop restaurant.
Located near the Grand Bazaar; easily reached on foot.
TRY175, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Spice Bazaar

Immerse yourself in the scents and colours of spices, dried fruits, and nuts at this bustling market.
A short walk from Hamdi Restaurant.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Chora Church

Marvel at the exquisite mosaics of this historic church, now a museum showcasing Byzantine art.
Take a taxi to get there from the Spice Bazaar.
TRY150, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Ciya Sofrasi

Indulge in the revived flavours of Anatolian cuisine at this popular restaurant in Kadikoy.
Take a ferry from Eminönü to Kadiköy.
TRY200, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Journey to Positano

Positano, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy a delightful breakfast at your hotel before checking out.
Prepare for your departure to the airport.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Transfer to Airport

Head to Istanbul Airport for your flight to Naples.
Allow for at least 2 hours for check-in and security.
Varying, 2 hours

12:00PM

Fly to Naples

Take a scenic flight from Istanbul to Naples, Italy.
Duration of flight approx 2 hours.
Varying, 2 hours

2:00PM

Transfer to Positano

Enjoy a picturesque drive along the Amalfi coast to reach Positano.
Private taxi or shuttle recommended.
EUR80, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Check-in at Villa Treville

Settle into your beautiful hotel with stunning views of the coastline.
Located just outside the town centre.
EUR500, 1 hour

5:00PM

Beach Time

Unwind at Spiaggia Grande or one of the more secluded beaches of Positano.
Short walk down from the hotel.
Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at La Pergola

Dine al fresco on fresh seafood and pasta with stunning sea views.
Located near the beach.
EUR75, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Positano Adventure

Positano, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Positano

Begin your day with a delicious Italian breakfast featuring cornetti and espresso.
A short walk from the hotel.
EUR15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Path of the Gods Hike

Take in breathtaking views while hiking one of the most famous trails in Italy.
Starting point is easily accessible; recommended to wear good hiking shoes.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Da Vincenzo

Relish in authentic Italian pizza and local dishes in a family-owned restaurant.
Walk back to Positano town.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Shopping in Positano

Explore local boutiques for handmade ceramics, sandals, and clothing.
Located throughout the town.
Cost varies, 2 hours

5:00PM

Gelato Break at Gelateria Da Maria

Cool off with a refreshing gelato in one of the town's best gelaterias.
Just a few minutes’ walk from shopping.
EUR5, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at Chez Black

Enjoy dinner with the sea lapping at your feet, famous for its spaghetti alle vongole.
Located on the beach.
EUR60, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Exploring Sicily

Sicily, Italy

7:30AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Fuel up with a hearty Sicilian breakfast before setting off.
Included with the hotel stay.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Ferry to Sicily

Enjoy a scenic ferry ride from Positano to Sicily.
Buy tickets in advance.
EUR30, 2 hours

11:00AM

Arrival in Taormina

Check in to your accommodation and freshen up.
Car rentals are available at the port.
EUR100, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Trattoria Da Nino

Indulge in Sicilian pasta and fresh seafood at this local favourite.
Located in Taormina's charming streets.
EUR40, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore the Ancient Theatre of Taormina

Visit the historic site that offers beautiful views of Mount Etna over a backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea.
A short walk from the restaurant.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Relax at Isola Bella

Spend the afternoon swimming and relaxing at this idyllic beach.
Take a short car ride to Isola Bella.
Free, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Osteria RossoDiVino

Enjoy a mix of traditional and contemporary Sicilian dishes with a local twist.
Return to Taormina for dinner.
EUR50, 2 hours
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Day 6: Sicilian Culture

Sicily, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a light Sicilian breakfast before starting your exploration.
Included in your stay.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Mount Etna

Take a guided tour to explore the majestic, active volcano.
Rental cars are available from Taormina for the drive.
EUR75, 5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Ristorante Da Giovanni

Relish traditional Sicilian cuisine after your volcano adventure.
Located in the nearby town.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Explore Catania

Visit the bustling city of Catania, famous for its baroque architecture and vibrant markets.
A short drive from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Trattoria Il Mare

Enjoy dinner featuring fresh seafood and local delicacies in Catania.
Close to the city centre.
EUR40, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Last Day in Sicily

Sicily, Italy

9:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast, sampling local pastries.
Included with your stay.
Included, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Syracuse

Travel to the historic town of Syracuse, exploring its ancient ruins and beautiful coastline.
Drive to Syracuse; enjoy the scenic views along the coast.
Free, 4 hours

2:30PM

Lunch in Syracuse at Caffè Nereide

Savour rustic Sicilian dishes in a charming atmosphere.
Located close to the archaeological site.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Return to Taormina

Head back to your hotel for a rest before dinner.
30-minute drive back to Taormina.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at La Griglia

Wrap up your Sicilian journey with wonderful grilled dishes at this local restaurant.
Located in the heart of Taormina.
EUR45, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Scenic Switzerland

Switzerland

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Get ready for your adventure with a hearty breakfast.
Included with your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Fly to Zurich

Take a morning flight from Sicily to Zurich.
Check-in at the airport; allow plenty of time.
Varying, 2 hours

11:30AM

Arrival in Zurich

Transfer to your accommodation and check in.
Car rentals available at the airport.
CHF100, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Zeughauskeller

Enjoy traditional Swiss cuisine in this historic restaurant.
Located in the city centre.
CHF40, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Zurich Lake

Stroll along the beautiful shores of Lake Zurich, perfect for relaxation and people-watching.
Short walk from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit Bahnhofstrasse

Shop at one of the world's most exclusive shopping avenues.
Directly heads from the lakefront.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Raclette Stube

Indulge in Swiss fondue or raclette in a cozy atmosphere.
Short walk from Bahnhofstrasse.
CHF60, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Day in Lucerne

Switzerland

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Prepare for a wonderful day with breakfast at your hotel.
Included with accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Day Trip to Lucerne

Drive to picturesque Lucerne, known for its preserved medieval architecture.
Follow signs to Lucerne; around 1-hour drive.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Exploring Chapel Bridge

Wander across this historic wooden bridge adorned with beautiful paintings.
Easily accessible upon arrival.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Wirtshaus Taube

Dig into local Swiss dishes in a welcoming atmosphere.
Located in the centre of Lucerne.
CHF45, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Lion Monument

Pay homage to the poignant Lion Monument, commemorating Swiss Guardsmen.
A short walk from lunch.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Relax by Lake Lucerne

Enjoy the refreshing breeze and stunning scenery on the lakeside.
Easily accessible from the Lion Monument.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Return to Zurich

Drive back to Zurich for the evening.
Same route back.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Swiss Chuchi

Enjoy a classic cheese fondue experience at this traditional restaurant.
Located downtown Zurich.
CHF45, 1.5 hours
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Day 10: Journey Through the Alps

Switzerland

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up for your alpine adventure with a nutritious breakfast.
Included with your stay.
Included, 1 hour

8:30AM

Scenic Drive to Interlaken

Drive through the breathtaking Swiss landscape towards Interlaken.
Stunning views awaiting along the way.
Free, 2 hours

10:30AM

Arrive in Interlaken

Explore this charming town known for adventure sports and its beautiful lakes.
Drive to Interlaken city centre.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Restaurant Taverne

Try local dishes with a modern twist in this popular eatery.
Located in the heart of Interlaken.
CHF35, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Harder Kulm

Take the funicular to the view platform for stunning views over the Jungfrau region.
Funicular station is centrally located.
CHF38, 2 hours

4:00PM

Leisure Time in Interlaken

Stroll along the lakes or perhaps try paragliding for the thrill-seekers!
Free to explore nearby areas.
Cost varies, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The 3 Tells

Savour local Swiss cuisine with a modern flair in a cozy atmosphere.
Short walk from your activity area.
CHF50, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 11: Arriving in Barcelona

Barcelona, Spain

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a filling breakfast to kick-off your day.
Included in your accommodation costs.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Fly to Barcelona

Take a flight from Zurich to Barcelona and marvel at the scenic views from above.
Check-in at the airport; allow adequate time.
Varying, 2 hours

11:30AM

Arrival in Barcelona

Arrive in the vibrant city of Barcelona and check into your hotel.
Rent a car for convenient transport around the city.
EUR100, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Cervecería Catalana

Satisfy your appetite with local tapas in a bustling atmosphere.
Located near your accommodation.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit La Sagrada Familia

Explore Gaudí’s architectural masterpiece that's been under construction for over a century.
Short walk or taxi from lunch.
EUR25, 2 hours

5:00PM

Stroll Through Park Güell

Wander through this colourful park filled with Gaudí's mesmerising mosaics.
A short taxi ride from La Sagrada Familia.
EUR10, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at La Paradeta

Partake in a unique dining experience where you choose fresh seafood that is grilled on the spot.
Located in the city's centre.
EUR40, 1.5 hours
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Day 12: Cultural Barcelona

Barcelona, Spain

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a pleasant breakfast before your exciting day.
Included with your hotel stay.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Casa Batlló

Explore another of Gaudí’s masterpieces that combines nature and art in a stunning setting.
Short taxi ride from your hotel.
EUR25, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at El Nacional

Enjoy a variety of Spanish dishes in a beautifully designed food hall.
A quick drive from Casa Batlló.
EUR40, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore the Gothic Quarter

Roam through medieval streets whilst discovering historical gems around every corner.
Short walk from El Nacional.
Free, 3 hours

5:00PM

Visit Museu Picasso

Discover an extensive collection of Pablo Picasso’s artworks showcasing his artistic journey.
Located in the Gothic Quarter.
EUR12, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Poble Espanyol

Experience a local environment with multiple dining options in a picturesque village setting.
Short distance from Museu Picasso.
EUR35, 2 hours
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Day 13: Discover More of Barcelona

Barcelona, Spain

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a convenient hotel breakfast.
Included in your stay.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Montjuïc

Take a cable car ride to Montjuïc for breathtaking views of the city.
Easily accessible by public transport.
EUR15, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Miramar

Enjoy a Mediterranean meal with sweeping views at this mountaintop restaurant.
Short walk from your cable car stop.
EUR50, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit the Magic Fountain

Watch the stunning light show at the dazzling Magic Fountain.
Walking distance from lunch.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore the Joan Miró Foundation

Discover works by this celebrated Spanish artist in a beautiful museum.
Located nearby the Magic Fountain.
EUR10, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Can Majó

Visit this popular seafood restaurant for delicious paella and fresh fish dishes.
Located near the beach.
EUR60, 1.5 hours
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Day 14: Departure

Barcelona, Spain

9:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel, remembering your incredible journey.
Included in hotel stay.
Included, 1 hour

10:30AM

Last-minute Shopping

Pick up some souvenirs from local shops to take a piece of Barcelona back with you.
Easily accessed in the Gothic Quarter.
Cost varies, 2 hours

12:30PM

Transfer to Airport

Head to Barcelona El Prat Airport for your departure flight.
Allow enough time for check-in.
Varying, 1 hour
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