Elegant Riviera and Vibrant Spain to Historic Britain: A 10-Day Spring Journey from Nice to Edinburgh

Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation

Nice, France on May 15, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Café Marché

Enjoy traditional French pastries and coffee in this cozy café near the Cours Saleya market, opening at 7:00 AM for a perfect start.
EUR15, 1h0m

10:00am

Promenade des Anglais Walk

Take a leisurely walk along this famous beachfront promenade to admire Mediterranean views and Nice’s architecture.
Free, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at La Rossettisserie

Savour delicious French rotisserie chicken dishes in a charming and rustic setting close to Old Town, opens at 12 PM.
EUR25, 1h30m

2:30pm

Explore Old Town (Vieux Nice)

Wander through narrow streets, colorful shops, and historic buildings including the Baroque Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Visit Castle Hill (Colline du Château)

Hike or take the elevator to Castle Hill park for panoramic views of Nice and the Baie des Anges.
Free, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Le Bistro du Fromager

Experience a gourmet dinner focusing on cheese dishes in a lively atmosphere near Old Town, opening till 10 PM.
EUR40, 2h0m

Day 2: Art and Markets

Nice, France on May 16, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Emilie's Cookies

Start with delightful homemade cookies and coffee in this popular spot near central Nice, opens at 8 AM.
EUR10, 45m

9:00am

Visit Matisse Museum

Explore the works and life of Henri Matisse in this museum open from 10 AM to 5 PM, located in a historic villa.
EUR10, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Le Safari

Enjoy fresh seafood and Niçoise specialties in the bustling Cours Saleya market area, lunch service from 12 PM.
EUR30, 1h30m

2:00pm

Stroll through Cours Saleya Market

Browse local produce, flowers, and crafts in one of Nice’s liveliest markets open until late afternoon.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Visit Marc Chagall National Museum

Discover Chagall’s vibrant biblical-themed artworks in a dedicated museum open until 6 PM.
EUR8, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Restaurant Jan

Fine dining with Michelin-starred South African cuisine in a sophisticated setting, reservation recommended, open till 10 PM.
EUR70, 2h0m

Day 3: Local Exploration

Nice, France on May 17, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Boulangerie Pâtisserie Cappa

Treat yourself to fresh croissants and coffee from this renowned bakery, opening early at 7:00 AM.
EUR10, 45m

9:30am

Day Trip to Eze Village

Take a short 30-minute bus ride to the medieval hilltop village of Eze, known for magnificent views and quaint streets. Explore the exotic gardens (open 9 AM-7 PM).
Bus EUR1.50, Gardens EUR7, 4h0m

2:00pm

Lunch at Château Eza Restaurant

Dine with stunning views over the French Riviera in this charming restaurant perched in Eze village, opens from 12 PM.
EUR50, 1h30m

4:00pm

Return to Nice and Relax at the Beach

Unwind at a private beach club like Plage Beau Rivage to enjoy the sea and sunset.
EUR20 entrance, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at La Petite Maison

Enjoy classic Niçoise cuisine with a modern twist at this renowned restaurant, booking ahead advised.
EUR60, 2h0m

Day 4: Charming Coastal Town

Antibes, France on May 18, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Nice Accommodation

Have an early breakfast before heading to Antibes by train, meal included or at local café.
Included or EUR10, 45m

9:00am

Travel to Antibes by Train

Enjoy a scenic 30-minute train journey along the coast from Nice to Antibes.
EUR5, 0h30m

10:00am

Visit Picasso Museum

Explore Picasso’s works housed in the historic Château Grimaldi, open 10 AM to 6 PM.
EUR6, 1h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Le Figuier de Saint-Esprit

Dine in an elegant Michelin-starred restaurant serving refined Provençal cuisine, open for lunch from 12 PM.
EUR55, 1h30m

2:00pm

Walk along Port Vauban

Stroll around one of Europe’s largest marinas to see luxury yachts and enjoy seaside cafés.
Free, 1h0m

3:30pm

Visit the Fort Carré

Tour this 16th-century star-shaped fort with impressive views, open 10 AM-6 PM.
EUR5, 1h0m

5:00pm

Travel back to Nice

Return to Nice by train for evening relaxation.
EUR5, 0h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at JAN by Keith Floyd

Enjoy another creative dinner in Nice or explore local bistros for lighter meals.
EUR45, 1h30m

Day 5: Move to Barcelona

Barcelona, Spain on May 19, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast in Nice

Quick breakfast at accommodation or nearby café before check-out.
EUR10, 30m

8:00am

Travel from Nice to Barcelona by Flight

Flight takes approximately 1h30m; arrive midday in Barcelona.
EUR80, 3h including airport and transit

12:30pm

Lunch at Ciudad Condal

Sample Catalan tapas renowned at this popular eatery in the city center, open daily from noon.
EUR25, 1h30m

2:30pm

Explore Gothic Quarter

Walk through the historic heart of Barcelona visiting the Cathedral, narrow streets and boutiques.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Visit La Boqueria Market

Experience this vibrant market off La Rambla to taste local fruits and snacks, open till 8 PM.
Free, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Cervecería Catalana

Enjoy an authentic tapas dinner at one of Barcelona’s buzzing tapas bars, open until midnight.
EUR35, 2h0m

Day 6: Gaudí and Culture

Barcelona, Spain on May 20, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Brunch & Cake

Enjoy hearty breakfast with creative dishes, opens at 9 AM but arrive a bit earlier to avoid wait.
EUR15, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Sagrada Família

Tour Gaudí’s masterpiece basilica with advanced ticket booking required; open 9 AM–6 PM.
EUR30, 2h0m

12:00pm

Visit Park Güell

Explore colorful mosaics and views at this iconic park, entry ticket required; open 9:30 AM–7:30 PM.
EUR14, 1h30m

2:00pm

Lunch at La Paradeta

Select fresh seafood and have it cooked to your liking at this casual eatery, open from noon.
EUR25, 1h0m

3:30pm

Relax at Barceloneta Beach

Spend the afternoon by the Mediterranean sun and sea with a casual walk or café stop.
Free, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Tickets Bar

Book in advance for this world-famous Michelin-starred tapas bar offering innovative dishes.
EUR70, 2h0m

Day 7: Travel to Marbella

Marbella, Spain on May 21, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast in Barcelona

Light breakfast at your hotel or nearby café before travel.
EUR10, 30m

8:00am

Travel by Flight from Barcelona to Malaga

Fly to Malaga airport (about 1h30m), then travel by taxi or bus to Marbella (about 45 minutes).
EUR70 flight + EUR30 transfer, 4h0m including transit

1:30pm

Lunch at Marbella Old Town

Try local Andalusian dishes at a traditional restaurant like El Patio de Mariscal, open from noon.
EUR25, 1h30m

3:00pm

Walk around Marbella Old Town

Enjoy the charming streets with whitewashed buildings, the Plaza de los Naranjos, and local shops.
Free, 2h0m

6:00pm

Relax at Playa de Venus Beach

Spend relaxing time on Marbella’s main beach with opportunities for a beachfront café.
Free, 1h30m

8:00pm

Dinner at Skina

Enjoy Michelin-starred Andalusian cuisine, reservation required for this intimate fine dining spot.
EUR80, 2h0m

Day 8: Leisure and Sightseeing

Marbella, Spain on May 22, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Florida

Start your day with excellent coffee and pastries at this historic café, opens 8 AM.
EUR12, 45m

9:00am

Day trip to Ronda

A 1.5-hour drive or bus from Marbella, visit the dramatic Puente Nuevo bridge and historic old town (morning to afternoon).
Bus EUR12; attractions Free to EUR8, 6h0m

3:30pm

Return to Marbella and Relax

Relax at your hotel or enjoy the pool and spa facilities.
Included in hotel, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Restaurante Venus

Enjoy elegant Mediterranean cuisine close to the beach, open till 11 PM.
EUR40, 2h0m

Day 9: Golf and Relax

Marbella, Spain on May 23, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Hearty breakfast included at your hotel before outdoor activities.
Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Golf at Marbella Golf & Country Club

Enjoy a morning round of golf on one of Marbella’s famous courses; bookings required in advance.
EUR80, 4h0m

2:00pm

Lunch at Clubhouse Restaurant

Relax with lunch at the golf club restaurant offering beautiful views.
EUR30, 1h0m

3:30pm

Visit Puerto Banús Marina

Explore the luxury marina with designer shops, cafés, and people watching in the late afternoon.
Free, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Dani García Restaurante

Enjoy a top-rated Michelin-starred dinner by famous chef Dani García; booking required.
EUR90, 2h0m

Day 10: Departure to London

London, England on May 24, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast in Marbella

Quick breakfast before departure, at the hotel or nearby café.
EUR10, 30m

8:00am

Travel to Malaga Airport

Taxi or shuttle to Malaga airport for your flight to London.
EUR30, 45m

10:00am

Flight from Malaga to London

Approximate flight time 2h30m; arrive in London late morning.
EUR90, 3h including airport formalities

1:00pm

Lunch at Dishoom Covent Garden

Enjoy Indian-inspired dishes in a stylish setting, open from noon to 11 PM.
GBP25, 1h0m

2:30pm

Explore British Museum

Visit one of the world’s greatest museums with free entry, open 10 AM to 5:30 PM Thursdays.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Walk along the Thames

Enjoy iconic views of the London Eye, Big Ben and river life with a stroll along the South Bank.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Hawksmoor Seven Dials

Savour British steaks and seafood in a warm ambiance, open till 10:30 PM.
GBP50, 2h0m

Day 11: Historic London Tour

London, England on May 25, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Breakfast Club Soho

Enjoy classic and creative breakfast dishes in a lively café, opens at 8 AM.
GBP15, 1h0m

9:30am

Tour Tower of London

Discover the history of the fortress, Crown Jewels, and medieval architecture; opens at 9 AM.
GBP30, 2h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Borough Market

Sample diverse food stalls and delicacies at this renowned market, open till 5 PM weekdays.
GBP20, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Tate Modern

Explore contemporary art in the iconic converted power station, free entry, open till 6 PM.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Relax in St. James’s Park

Enjoy green spaces and views of Buckingham Palace at this central London park.
Free, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Rules Restaurant

Dine at London’s oldest restaurant serving classic British cuisine, open till 10 PM.
GBP45, 2h0m

Day 12: Travel to Edinburgh

Edinburgh, Scotland on May 26, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast in London

Early breakfast before taking the train or flight to Edinburgh.
GBP15, 30m

8:30am

Train from London to Edinburgh

Scenic 4.5-hour train journey departing from London King’s Cross to Edinburgh Waverley.
GBP90, 4h30m

1:30pm

Lunch at The Witchery by the Castle

Enjoy luxurious Scottish dining in a dramatic historic setting near Edinburgh Castle, booking advised.
GBP50, 1h30m

3:30pm

Explore Edinburgh Royal Mile

Wander this famous cobbled street with medieval landmarks, shops, and street performers.
Free, 2h0m

6:00pm

Visit Edinburgh Castle

Tour the castle’s historic sites and museums; last entry 5 PM but offers evening events in May, check schedule.
GBP20, 1h30m

8:00pm

Dinner at Angels with Bagpipes

Relish contemporary Scottish cuisine on the Royal Mile, open until 10 PM.
GBP40, 2h0m

Day 13: Scottish Culture

Edinburgh, Scotland on May 27, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Urban Angel

Hearty and healthy breakfast options in a cozy café open from 8 AM.
GBP12, 1h0m

9:30am

Climb Arthur’s Seat

Enjoy a scenic hike up this extinct volcano for panoramic views of Edinburgh; accessible anytime, best in morning.
Free, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Henderson’s Vegan

Enjoy healthy and delicious vegan dishes in one of Edinburgh’s oldest vegetarian restaurants.
GBP20, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit National Museum of Scotland

Explore Scottish history, art, and science in this free-entry museum, open 10 AM to 5 PM.
Free, 2h30m

4:00pm

Tea at The Dome

Experience an elegant afternoon tea in this stunning landmark building.
GBP30, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at The Scran & Scallie

End with hearty Scottish gastropub fare in a comfortable setting, open till 11 PM.
GBP35, 2h0m