22-Day Budget-Friendly Euro Trip from Madrid: Barcelona, Paris, Malta & Snowy Alps

Day 1: Madrid Arrival

Madrid, Spain on January 31, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Café de Oriente

Enjoy a typical Spanish breakfast with coffee and tostada. It opens at 8:00am and is great for getting local flavour.
EUR5, 1h

11:00am

Explore Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol

Walk around these iconic Madrid landmarks to start your cultural immersion with free sightseeing.
EUR0, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Museo del Jamón

Try budget-friendly Iberian ham plates and local dishes in a lively traditional spot.
EUR10, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Museo del Prado

Explore one of the world's foremost art museums. Entry free from 6:00pm to 8:00pm, so plan accordingly or pay EUR15 for earlier access.
EUR0 or EUR15, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at El Tigre

Enjoy affordable tapas in a lively bar setting, perfect for budget travellers.
EUR12, 1.5h
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Day 2: Madrid to Barcelona

Madrid to Barcelona, Spain on February 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bicos café

A cosy spot to start your day with coffee and pastries before travel.
EUR5, 1h

10:00am

Train to Barcelona

Take an early Renfe AVE high-speed train; journey takes about 3 hours. Booking in advance ensures lower prices.
EUR40-60, 3h

1:30pm

Lunch at La Boqueria Market

Sample fresh and affordable Catalan cuisine at various stalls.
EUR10, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Parc Güell

Explore Gaudí's colourful park with panoramic city views. Tickets are reasonably priced and worth booking online.
EUR10, 2h

6:00pm

Walk along La Rambla

A lively pedestrian street great for people watching and street entertainment, free to wander.
EUR0, 1h

8:00pm

Dinner at Cervecería Catalana

Popular tapas bar offering great variety at reasonable prices.
EUR15, 1.5h
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Day 3: Barcelona Sightseeing

Barcelona, Spain on February 2, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Granja Viader

Traditional café known for its local dairy products and pastries from 8:00am.
EUR6, 1h

10:00am

Visit La Sagrada Família

Gaudí's masterpiece basilica. Pre-book tickets to save and avoid lines.
EUR20, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Els 4Gats

Historic café offering traditional Catalan dishes at affordable prices.
EUR12, 1h

2:00pm

Explore Gothic Quarter

Wander through alleys and enjoy medieval architecture for free walking tours or self-guided.
EUR0, 2h

5:00pm

Relax at Barceloneta Beach

Take a leisurely walk or sit by the sea to unwind.
EUR0, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at La Paradeta

Self-service seafood restaurant offering fresh choices at good prices.
EUR15, 1.5h
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Day 4: Barcelona to Paris

Barcelona to Paris, France on February 3, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel or local café

Quick bite before travel; many cafés open from 7:00am.
EUR5, 0.5h

8:00am

Fly to Paris

Budget airlines offer morning flights around 2 hours; book in advance for best price.
EUR40-60, 2h

11:00am

Check-in and freshen up at accommodation

Budget hotels and hostels available in central Paris.
EUR0, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Le Bouillon Chartier

Traditional Parisian brasserie offering hearty meals at low prices.
EUR15, 1h

1:30pm

Explore Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur

Free access to the basilica with stunning city views; walk around artistic streets.
EUR0, 3h

5:00pm

Visit Louvre Museum

Entry is free on the first Sunday of the month; otherwise, €17. Closed Tuesdays.
EUR0 or EUR17, 2h

8:00pm

Dinner at Crêperie Josselin

Affordable Breton-style crêpes in a cosy setting on Rue de Montparnasse.
EUR15, 1.5h
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Day 5: Paris City Tour

Paris, France on February 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café de Flore

Iconic Parisian café open from 7:30am, perfect for people watching and pastries.
EUR8, 1h

9:30am

Visit Notre-Dame Cathedral

Free to enter the cathedral, despite restoration works ongoing after 2019 fire.
EUR0, 1h

11:00am

Walk along the Seine and visit Shakespeare & Co bookstore

Enjoy riverside strolls and browse this famous independent bookstore.
EUR0, 1.5h

1:00pm

Lunch at L’As du Fallafel

Budget-friendly legendary falafel in the Marais district.
EUR10, 1h

2:30pm

Tour Eiffel Tower Lower Levels

Visit the first and second levels. Tickets approximately €18. Booking online recommended; open 9:30am - 11:45pm.
EUR18, 2h

5:00pm

Relax at Champ de Mars park

Ideal spot to relax with a view of the Eiffel Tower, free and open all day.
EUR0, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Bouillon Pigalle

Low-cost French bistro with hearty portions, suitable for budget travellers.
EUR15, 1.5h
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Day 6: Travel to Innsbruck

Paris to Innsbruck, Austria on February 5, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel or nearby café

Stock up before travel, many cafes open from 7:00am.
EUR5, 0.5h

8:30am

Train travel Paris to Innsbruck

Take a train via Munich or Zurich; journey time approx 8-9h. Book saver tickets early for lower rate.
EUR50-70, 9h

6:00pm

Check-in and dinner nearby

Choose a budget guesthouse and enjoy a quick dinner at a local pub with Tyrolean dishes.
EUR15, 1.5h
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Day 7: Innsbruck Winter Day

Innsbruck, Austria on February 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Munding

Historic café with pastries and coffee from 7:00am, perfect start pre-snow activities.
EUR7, 1h

9:30am

Nordkette Cable Car and Snow Fun

Take the cable car for breathtaking snowy alpine views and optional snow hiking or sledging. Open all day weather permitting.
EUR30, 4h

2:00pm

Lunch at Alpenlounge

Affordable alpine cuisine with cosy mountain atmosphere.
EUR15, 1h

3:30pm

Visit Old Town Innsbruck

Stroll old streets and see the Golden Roof and Innsbruck Cathedral, free to explore at leisure.
EUR0, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Stiftskeller

Traditional Austrian fare at reasonable prices in a historic setting.
EUR18, 1.5h
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Day 8: Innsbruck to Malta

Innsbruck to Malta on February 7, 2025

6:00am

Quick breakfast at hotel

Early start for airport transfer; cafes may be limited in opening hours.
EUR5, 0.5h

8:00am

Fly Innsbruck to Malta (via connecting flight)

One stop flight approx 4-5 hours total. Book early budget flights for best price.
EUR70-100, 5h

1:30pm

Check-in and lunch at Café Jubilee

Affordable Maltese and Mediterranean cuisine near Valletta.
EUR12, 1h

3:00pm

Walk around Valletta

Explore the capital city’s UNESCO sites, including Upper Barrakka Gardens and the Grand Harbour views, free of charge.
EUR0, 3h

7:00pm

Dinner at Nenu The Artisan Baker

Enjoy traditional Maltese ftira and local dishes at moderate prices.
EUR15, 1.5h
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Day 9: Malta Exploration

Valletta and Malta on February 8, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Caffe Cordina

Historic café in Valletta serving pastries and coffee since 1837.
EUR6, 1h

10:00am

Visit Mdina

The old capital, known as the ‘Silent City’ with medieval streets and panoramic views; free entry and open daily.
EUR0, 3h

1:30pm

Lunch at Fontanella Tea Garden

Famous for cakes and views overlooking Mdina, budget options available.
EUR10, 1h

3:00pm

Explore Blue Grotto by boat

Boat tours provide scenic views of sea caves; seasonal openings from 9:00am to 5:00pm. Cost-effective when booked on-site.
EUR8, 1h

5:00pm

Relax at St. Peter’s Pool

Natural swimming pools for quiet relaxation when weather permits; free to access.
EUR0, 1.5h

7:30pm

Dinner at Ta’ Kris

Highly rated for authentic Maltese home cooking in a budget-friendly setting.
EUR15, 1.5h
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Day 10: Malta to Madrid

Malta to Madrid on February 9, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at accommodation

Prepare for flight with a simple meal before airport transfer.
EUR5, 0.5h

9:00am

Fly Malta to Madrid

Direct flight approx 2.5h; book early for low cost carriers.
EUR50-70, 2.5h

12:30pm

Check-in and lunch near Madrid city centre

Try Mercado de San Miguel for wide affordable options.
EUR12, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Reina Sofía Museum

Modern art museum housing Picasso’s Guernica; free entry from 7:00pm to 9:00pm Tue-Sat, and 1:30pm to 7:00pm Sun-Mon. Otherwise €10.
EUR0 or EUR10, 2h

5:00pm

Stroll Retiro Park

Relax in this expansive city park renowned for its sculptures and lake, free all day.
EUR0, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Museo del Jamón

Return to enjoy relaxed affordable tapas near your lodging.
EUR12, 1.5h
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Day 11: Day trip Toledo

Madrid, Spain on February 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel or local bakery

Start early to catch train to Toledo.
EUR5, 0.5h

9:00am

Train to Toledo

30-minute ride; trains depart frequently from Madrid’s main stations. Return tickets affordable around EUR15.
EUR15, 0.5h

10:00am

Visit Toledo Cathedral

Gothic cathedral with beautiful interiors, small fee required; open 10:00am-6:45pm.
EUR10, 1.5h

12:00pm

Lunch at Taberna El Botero

Traditional Toledo cuisine with budget options.
EUR12, 1h

2:00pm

Explore Alcázar and city walls

Historic fortress and panoramic views worth photographing; entry about €5.
EUR5, 2h

4:30pm

Return train to Madrid

Evening arrival back in Madrid allows relaxed dinner.
EUR0, 0.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at El Tigre

Affordable tapas bar to unwind with local dishes.
EUR12, 1.5h
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Day 12: Madrid Leisure & Local

Madrid, Spain on February 11, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at San Ginés Chocolatería

Try the famous churros con chocolate at this historic café, open from 9:00am.
EUR5, 1h

10:30am

Explore Lavapiés neighbourhood

Immerse yourself in a multicultural area with street art, galleries, and markets, all free to explore.
EUR0, 3h

2:00pm

Lunch at Casa Toni

Traditional and affordable Spanish tavern near Lavapiés.
EUR12, 1h

3:30pm

Visit Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum

Art museum with diverse collection; ticket €13, free on Mondays 12:00pm - 4:00pm.
EUR0 or EUR13, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at El Brillante

Famous for quick affordable bocadillos (sandwiches), ideal for casual dining.
EUR10, 1h
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Day 13: Madrid to Seville

Madrid to Seville, Spain on February 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast local café

Light meal before train journey.
EUR5, 0.5h

9:30am

Train to Seville

High-speed AVE train takes about 2.5 hours; book in advance for best fares.
EUR30-45, 2.5h

12:00pm

Check-in and lunch at El Rinconcillo

One of the oldest tapas bars in Seville serving Andalusian cuisine affordably.
EUR15, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Seville Cathedral & Giralda Tower

Largest Gothic cathedral with views from the tower; entry approx €9; open 11:00am-5:00pm.
EUR9, 2h

4:30pm

Explore Plaza de España and María Luisa Park

Enjoy the beautiful square and park, free to visit and perfect for a stroll.
EUR0, 1.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at La Azotea

Well-reviewed tapas with affordable pricing and local atmosphere.
EUR15, 1.5h
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Day 14: Seville to Granada

Seville to Granada, Spain on February 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at local café

Early breakfast before coach or train to Granada.
EUR5, 0.5h

9:00am

Bus or train to Granada

Journey approx 3 hours; buses tend to be cheaper than trains.
EUR15-20, 3h

12:30pm

Check-in and lunch at Bodegas Castañeda

Popular local tavern offering tapas and wines affordably.
EUR15, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Albayzín Quarter

Historic Moorish district with narrow streets, free to explore and great views of the Alhambra.
EUR0, 2h

4:30pm

Tour Generalife Gardens

Tickets cost about €7, a serene oasis attached to the Alhambra palace complex.
EUR7, 1.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at Bar Los Diamantes

Famous for fresh seafood tapas at reasonable prices.
EUR12, 1.5h
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Day 15: Alhambra Visit

Granada, Spain on February 14, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Café Lisboa

A good spot for pastries and coffee near the city centre.
EUR5, 1h

10:00am

Visit Alhambra Palace

Main attraction with magnificent Nasrid palaces and gardens; pre-book tickets (€14) are essential.
EUR14, 3h

1:30pm

Lunch at Restaurante Ruta del Azafrán

Enjoy affordable Andalusian cuisine specializing in local flavours.
EUR15, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Sacromonte

Famous cave houses and flamenco shows; explore on foot and appreciate the culture and views.
EUR0, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner Tapas crawl

Try various tapas bars in Granada’s city centre for a low-cost authentic experience.
EUR15, 2h
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Day 16: Granada to Madrid

Granada to Madrid, Spain on February 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel or local café

Prepare for departure after a relaxing morning.
EUR5, 0.5h

9:30am

Train to Madrid

High-speed link takes about 4 hours; book early for best prices.
EUR40-55, 4h

2:00pm

Check-in and lunch at Mercado de San Ildefonso

Trendy market with reasonably priced small plates.
EUR12, 1h

3:30pm

Visit Royal Palace of Madrid

Grand palace with free entry Mon-Thurs evenings (after 4pm); daytime €12.
EUR0 or EUR12, 2h

6:30pm

Walk through Sabatini Gardens

Peaceful garden with palace views, open until dusk, free entry.
EUR0, 1h

8:00pm

Dinner at Museo del Jamón

Familiar spot to enjoy affordable traditional Spanish evening meal.
EUR12, 1.5h
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Day 17: Day trip Segovia

Madrid, Spain on February 16, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Early start to catch train.
EUR5, 0.5h

9:00am

Train to Segovia

Approx 30 mins on high-speed train; ticket around €10-12.
EUR12, 0.5h

9:45am

Visit Roman Aqueduct and Old Town

Free to walk around and appreciate medieval architecture and ancient aqueduct.
EUR0, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Mesón de Cándido

Try traditional roast suckling pig, local specialty; affordable options exist.
EUR20, 1h

1:30pm

Explore Alcázar of Segovia

Castle with rich history and panoramic views, entrance €8.
EUR8, 2h

4:00pm

Train back to Madrid

Evening return for relaxed dining.
EUR0, 0.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at El Brillante

Casual bocadillo dinner to wrap up the day.
EUR10, 1h
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Day 18: Madrid to Lisbon

Madrid to Lisbon, Portugal on February 17, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Quick start before travel.
EUR5, 0.5h

8:00am

Bus to Lisbon

Budget international bus approx 6-7 hours; more affordable than flights.
EUR30, 7h

3:00pm

Check-in and rest

Relax after long journey at budget-friendly guesthouse.
EUR0, 1h

4:00pm

Explore Belém district

Visit Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower exteriors, free to explore park areas.
EUR0, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Time Out Market

Wide variety of affordable Portuguese foods in market hall setting.
EUR15, 1.5h
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Day 19: Lisbon sights

Lisbon, Portugal on February 18, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Pastéis de Belém

Famous for pastéis de nata, opens at 8:00am.
EUR6, 1h

9:30am

Visit Alfama and São Jorge Castle

Walk through Lisbon’s oldest quarter and explore castle grounds (€10 entry).
EUR10, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Ramiro

Popular seafood spot offering good value with local fare.
EUR20, 1h

2:30pm

Ride Tram 28

Budget-friendly tram ride through historic city sights, ticket €3.80 single ride.
EUR4, 1.5h

5:00pm

Walk along Praça do Comércio

Enjoy the riverside square and architecture, free and open.
EUR0, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Cervejaria Trindade

Historic brewery with good prices for Portuguese classics.
EUR15, 1.5h
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Day 20: Lisbon to Madrid

Lisbon to Madrid on February 19, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at accommodation

Prepare for travel back to Madrid.
EUR5, 0.5h

8:00am

Bus or flight to Madrid

Morning flight approx 1.5h or 7-hour bus; budget airlines recommended for faster return.
EUR40-60, 1.5h

11:30am

Lunch near hotel

Rest and eat light meal after travel.
EUR12, 1h

1:00pm

Shopping and exploring Gran Vía

Famous avenue with shops and architecture, ideal for a relaxed afternoon walk.
EUR0, 2h

4:00pm

Visit CaixaForum Madrid

Cultural centre offering free and affordable exhibitions, open 10am-8pm.
EUR0, 1.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at La Casa del Abuelo

Known for affordable tapas including gambas garlic style.
EUR12, 1.5h
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Day 21: Final Madrid Day

Madrid, Spain on February 20, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Chamberí Market

Newer market with café options, budget-friendly and lively.
EUR6, 1h

10:30am

Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum or Prado revisit

Spend last day enjoying great art; free entry in late afternoon or pay standard fees.
EUR0 or EUR15, 3h

2:00pm

Lunch at Mercado San Miguel

Final delicious and affordable bites in iconic market atmosphere.
EUR12, 1h

4:00pm

Relax at El Retiro Park

Leisurely final stroll or boat ride on the lake if weather permits.
EUR0, 2h

7:00pm

Farewell dinner at La Castela

Traditional tapas with local flavour at budget price to end your trip.
EUR15, 1.5h
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Day 22: Departure

Madrid, Spain on February 21, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at accommodation

Light breakfast before airport transfer.
EUR5, 0.5h

8:00am

Transfer to Madrid Airport

Leave early to allow for travel time and security check for international flights.
EUR0, 1h
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