Comprehensive 22-Day Itinerary: Madrid, Lisbon, & Albufeira Highlights

Day 1: Historic Madrid

Madrid, Spain on June 11, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Chocolatería San Ginés

Enjoy traditional churros with thick hot chocolate at this iconic Madrid cafe open from 7:00am, perfect to start your day with an authentic local treat.
EUR5, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit the Royal Palace of Madrid

Explore the stunning palace and its lush gardens, open 10:00am–8:00pm. Admire exquisite art collections and architecture in Europe's largest royal palace by floor area.
EUR13, 2h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Mercado de San Miguel

Savour a variety of Spanish tapas and fresh seafood in this historic covered market near the palace, open daily until midnight.
EUR20, 1h0m

2:00pm

Prado Museum Visit

Spend your afternoon viewing masterpieces from Velázquez and Goya. The museum opens 10:00am–8:00pm; closed Mondays.
EUR15, 2h0m

5:00pm

Relax at Retiro Park

Stroll or rent a boat on the lake at Retiro Park, open from 6:00am to midnight. A perfect place to unwind after museum touring.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Sobrino de Botín

Dine at the world’s oldest restaurant, dating back to 1725, known for its traditional roast suckling pig and lamb. Open from 1:00pm–11:00pm.
EUR35, 1h30m
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Day 2: Art & Culture

Madrid, Spain on June 12, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Café Murillo

Enjoy a light Spanish breakfast with pastries and coffee near the Prado, open from 8:00am.
EUR7, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Reina Sofia Museum

Home to Picasso’s Guernica and other modern masterpieces, open 10:00am–9:00pm, closed Tuesday. Ideal for modern art lovers.
EUR12, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at El Brillante

Famous for its calamari sandwich next to Atocha station, open 10:00am–midnight, a quick and tasty option.
EUR12, 1h0m

1:30pm

Walk Gran Vía and Plaza Mayor

Explore the lively main shopping street and the historic Plaza Mayor, great for photos and street performances.
Free, 2h0m

3:30pm

Visit Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum

One of Madrid’s top art museums with a vast private collection spanning multiple styles, open 10:00am–7:00pm.
EUR13, 2h0m

6:00pm

Tapas Dinner in La Latina District

Enjoy lively evening tapas hopping around renowned bars like Casa Lucio, open until late, to experience authentic local ambience.
EUR25, 2h0m
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Day 3: Day Trip Toledo

Madrid, Spain on June 13, 2025

7:30am

Train to Toledo

Take a 33-minute train ride from Madrid’s Atocha station to historic Toledo, departing frequently in the morning.
EUR15, 0h33m

8:15am

Breakfast at Café de las Monjas, Toledo

Enjoy a traditional Spanish breakfast nestled in Toledo's old quarter, open from 8:00am.
EUR7, 1h0m

9:30am

Explore Toledo Cathedral

Visit the magnificent Gothic cathedral from 10:00am–6:45pm showcasing stunning architecture and religious art.
EUR10, 1h30m

11:15am

Wander Old Town & Alcázar

Discover narrow medieval streets and the imposing hilltop fortress now housing a museum, open 10:00am–8:00pm.
EUR5, 2h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Restaurante La Ermita

Enjoy traditional Manchego cuisine with views of the Tagus River, open from noon to 4:00pm.
EUR25, 1h30m

3:00pm

Return to Madrid by train

Relax during the comfortable journey back to Madrid in the afternoon.
Included, 0h33m

4:00pm

Free time or local shopping

Spend the late afternoon visiting El Rastro flea market if Sunday, or enjoy Madrid’s boutique shopping and cafés.
Varies, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Ramón Freixa Madrid

Indulge in contemporary Spanish cuisine with 2 Michelin stars, reservations recommended, open 8:00pm–11:00pm.
EUR80, 2h0m
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Day 4: Modern Madrid

Madrid, Spain on June 14, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at La Rollerie

Relax with fresh pastries, coffee, and breakfast dishes in a charming setting, open from 8:00am.
EUR8, 1h0m

9:00am

Visit Santiago Bernabéu Stadium

Tour Real Madrid’s home stadium, open 10:00am–7:00pm, offering immersive exhibits and views of the pitch.
EUR25, 2h0m

11:30am

Walk through Chamberí District

Explore boutique shops, street art, and traditional taverns in this cultural neighbourhood.
Free, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Taberna El Sur

Enjoy authentic Andalusian tapas with a local atmosphere, open all day until 11:00pm.
EUR20, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit CaixaForum Madrid

Check out contemporary art exhibitions and the vertical garden, open 10:00am–8:00pm, closed Mondays.
EUR5, 1h30m

4:30pm

Afternoon coffee at Toma Café

Sit down for speciality coffee at one of Madrid’s prominent coffee spots, open until 8:00pm.
EUR4, 0h45m

6:00pm

Early dinner at StreetXO

Enjoy creative Asian fusion street food in a vibrant setting, open 1:30pm–3:30pm and 8:30pm–11:30pm.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 5: Start Lisbon Journey

Lisbon, Portugal on June 15, 2025

8:00am

Flight Madrid to Lisbon

A short 1h15m flight from Madrid Barajas to Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport, multiple daily flights.
EUR60, 1h15m

10:00am

Check-in and freshen up

Get settled in your Lisbon accommodation, ideally central Baixa or Chiado area.
Included, 1h0m

11:00am

Brunch at Manteigaria Silva

Taste artisan Portuguese cheese and charcuterie, open from 9:00am, perfect to start your Lisbon adventure.
EUR12, 1h0m

12:30pm

Explore Alfama District

Wander Lisbon’s oldest neighbourhood with narrow winding streets, historic sites, and views of the Tagus River.
Free, 3h0m

3:30pm

Visit Lisbon Cathedral

Tour the iconic Sé Cathedral, open 9:00am–7:00pm, a mixture of architectural styles from the 12th century onwards.
Free, 1h0m

5:00pm

Pastéis de Belém

Head to Belém to try the famous custard tarts from Pastéis de Belém bakery, open until 11pm.
EUR3 per tart, 0h45m

7:00pm

Dinner at Time Out Market

Enjoy a variety of Portuguese dishes from top chefs all under one roof, open until midnight.
EUR25, 1h30m
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Day 6: Historic Lisbon

Lisbon, Portugal on June 16, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Fabrica Coffee Roasters

Start the day with excellent locally roasted coffee and pastries, opens at 8:00am.
EUR6, 1h0m

9:30am

Jerónimos Monastery visit

Explore this stunning UNESCO World Heritage site, open 10:00am–6:30pm, closed Mondays. Must-see for Manueline architecture.
EUR10, 2h0m

11:30am

Belém Tower

Visit Lisbon’s iconic riverside tower, open 10:00am–6:30pm, exploring Portugal’s Age of Discovery history.
EUR6, 1h0m

12:45pm

Lunch at O Prego da Peixaria

Enjoy delicious prego steak sandwiches and seafood dishes, open until 11:00pm daily.
EUR20, 1h0m

2:00pm

Tram 28 ride

Hop on the historic tram 28 for a scenic route through Lisbon’s most famous neighbourhoods, perfect for sightseeing until early evening.
EUR3, 1h30m

3:45pm

Visit the National Tile Museum

Discover Portugal’s beautiful azulejos from medieval to modern times, open 10:00am–5:30pm, closed Mondays.
EUR5, 1h0m

5:00pm

Sunset at Miradouro da Senhora do Monte

Enjoy one of the best panoramic views over Lisbon just before sunset, open all day.
Free, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Ramiro

Savour the best of Lisbon’s seafood, including shellfish and fresh fish, open from 12:00pm to 11:00pm.
EUR35, 2h0m
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Day 7: Cultural Immersion

Lisbon, Portugal on June 17, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Padaria Portuguesa

Enjoy fresh bread and pastries from this popular local bakery, open from early morning.
EUR5, 1h0m

9:00am

Day trip to Sintra

Travel by train (40 min) to Sintra, to visit magical palaces including Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira, open 9:30am–6:00pm.
Train EUR5 return, Palaces approx. EUR15 each, 7h0m

5:30pm

Return to Lisbon

Relax on the train back to Lisbon after a full day in Sintra.
Included, 0h40m

7:00pm

Dinner at A Cevicheria

Try Portuguese-Peruvian fusion seafood dishes with a lively vibe, open until 11:00pm.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 8: Leisure & Markets

Lisbon, Portugal on June 18, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Nicolau Lisboa

Enjoy healthy and hearty breakfast options in the heart of Lisbon, open early from 8:00am.
EUR10, 1h0m

9:30am

Explore LX Factory

Discover an artsy complex of shops, restaurants, and galleries in a former industrial site, open 10:00am–8:00pm.
Free, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Wish Slow Coffee House

Relax with light lunches and specialty coffee, open to 6:00pm.
EUR15, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit MAAT – Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology

Explore a unique modern museum on the Tagus riverfront, open 11:00am–7:00pm.
EUR9, 1h30m

4:00pm

Coffee break at Fabrica Lisboa

Unwind with one of Lisbon’s specialty coffee spots before evening plans.
EUR5, 0h45m

7:00pm

Dinner at Sea Me - Peixaria Moderna

Enjoy fresh seafood with a modern twist in a relaxed atmosphere, open till late.
EUR35, 1h30m
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Day 9: Travel to Albufeira

Albufeira, Portugal on June 19, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel or local cafe

Fuel up with a light breakfast before departing Lisbon.
EUR7, 1h0m

9:30am

Train or drive to Albufeira

Travel approximately 3h by train or car to Albufeira on the Algarve coast, known for stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife.
EUR30, 3h0m

12:30pm

Check-in accommodation

Settle into your accommodation in central Albufeira or near the beach.
Included, 1h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at O Marinheiro

Enjoy Algarve regional cuisine in a quaint setting, open 12:30pm–3:00pm and 7pm–10:30pm.
EUR25, 1h0m

3:00pm

Relax at Praia dos Pescadores

Spend the afternoon at this popular golden sandy beach right beside Albufeira’s old town, free access all year.
Free, 3h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Vila Joya

Dine at one of Algarve's Michelin-starred restaurants, reservation required. Open 7:00pm–10:30pm.
EUR100, 2h0m
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Day 10: Beach & Nature

Albufeira, Portugal on June 20, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Padaria Central Albufeira

Start with fresh pastries and coffee at this popular bakery open from 7:30am.
EUR6, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Praia da Falésia

Walk or swim along Praia da Falésia, famous for its striking red cliffs and long sandy beach, perfect for morning outdoor activities.
Free, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Restaurante Evaristo

Try fresh seafood right on Praia do Evaristo beach, open 12:00pm–10:00pm.
EUR30, 1h0m

2:00pm

Boat tour of Algarve caves

Take a scenic boat tour exploring the stunning sea caves and coastline near Albufeira, tours run from 2:00pm and last about 2 hours.
EUR25, 2h0m

5:00pm

Stroll Albufeira Old Town

Explore charming streets, shops and cafes with a relaxed vibe before sunset.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at A Ruína

Enjoy a casual meal with sea views at this beachside restaurant open 12:00pm–11:00pm.
EUR25, 1h30m
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Day 11: Relax & Explore

Albufeira, Portugal on June 21, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast seaside at Restaurante O Cantinho

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast near the marina, open 8:00am–12:00pm.
EUR8, 1h0m

10:00am

Visit Zoomarine Algarve

Family-friendly marine park with dolphin shows, aquarium, and water rides, open 10:00am–6:00pm.
EUR30, 4h0m

2:00pm

Lunch at the park or nearby

Grab lunch at one of Zoomarine’s restaurants or pack a picnic for the day.
EUR15, 1h0m

3:00pm

Return to Albufeira for shopping and cafes

Spend a relaxed afternoon exploring artisan shops and cafés, ideal for souvenir hunting.
Varies, 3h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at O Marinheiro

Revisit this scenic restaurant for regional dishes or try their fresh catch of the day.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 12: Wine & Countryside

Albufeira, Portugal on June 22, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at your accommodation

Start your day with a convenient and relaxed breakfast at your hotel or rental.
Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Day trip to Algarve vineyards

Explore Algarve’s emerging wine region visiting local vineyards such as Quinta dos Vales, open for tours and tastings by appointment.
EUR40, 6h0m

4:00pm

Return to Albufeira

Relax and refresh before dinner after your countryside experience.
Included, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Vila Joya

Enjoy a second unforgettable fine dining experience at Albufeira’s top Michelin-starred restaurant.
EUR100, 2h0m
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Day 13: Beach & Wellness

Albufeira, Portugal on June 23, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Padaria Central

Start with fresh coffee and bread at this local favourite bakery.
EUR6, 1h0m

10:00am

Morning spa session

Book a wellness or massage treatment at one of Albufeira’s top spa hotels for relaxation.
EUR70, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch near the beach

Enjoy informal dining with fresh seafood at Restaurante Conchas along the coast.
EUR25, 1h0m

2:00pm

Afternoon at Praia da Coelha

Relax on this quieter beach with crystal clear waters and stunning cliffs.
Free, 3h0m

6:00pm

Sunset drinks at a beach bar

Sip cocktails while watching the sunset at a beachside bar like NoSoloÁgua.
EUR15, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at O Lourenço

Enjoy traditional Portuguese dishes, especially grilled fish, in a cosy setting, open until 10:30pm.
EUR28, 1h30m
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Day 14: Explore Nearby Towns

Albufeira, Portugal on June 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Inglês

Hearty breakfast near your accommodation to prepare for a day of exploring.
EUR7, 1h0m

9:00am

Visit Lagos

Drive or take a train (approx. 40 min) to Lagos to explore historic sites and beaches like Praia Dona Ana and Lagos Marina.
EUR8 train, 6h0m

3:00pm

Return to Albufeira

Relax after your excursion, with time for shopping or a stroll.
Included, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at The Cottage

Enjoy British-Portuguese fusion dishes with a friendly atmosphere in central Albufeira.
EUR25, 1h30m
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Day 15: Leisure Day

Albufeira, Portugal on June 25, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Relaxed start with hotel breakfast service.
Included, 1h0m

10:00am

Morning yoga on the beach

Join a sunrise or morning yoga session at a local instructor, perfect for wellness enthusiasts.
EUR15, 1h0m

11:30am

Leisure by the pool or beach

Spend your afternoon at leisure, enjoying your hotel pool or nearby beaches.
Free, 4h0m

3:30pm

Coffee and pastries at a local pastelaria

Treat yourself to Portuguese sweets and coffee mid-afternoon.
EUR6, 0h45m

7:00pm

Dinner at Restaurante Dom Carlos

Experience elegant dining with Algarve flavours, open until 11:00pm.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 16: Adventure & Sports

Albufeira, Portugal on June 26, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at local café

Fuel for an active day with a nutritious breakfast at a nearby café, open early.
EUR7, 1h0m

9:00am

Kayaking or Stand-Up Paddleboarding

Explore the sea caves and coastline around Albufeira with equipment rental from local watersports centres, weather permitting.
EUR30, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at A Ruína

Enjoy a scenic lunch by the beach after your water activities.
EUR25, 1h0m

2:00pm

Hiking the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail

Tackle part of this beautiful coastal trail from Praia da Marinha area, about 4 hours including stops; shuttle or taxi back.
Free, 4h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Restaurante Vila Joya

Celebratory dinner at the Michelin-starred restaurant to complete your adventurous day.
EUR100, 2h0m
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Day 17: Market & Culinary

Albufeira, Portugal on June 27, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Pastelaria Riviera

Enjoy traditional Portuguese cakes and coffee in this quaint pasteleria, open from 8:00am.
EUR5, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Mercado Municipal de Albufeira

Explore the local market for fresh produce, fish, and crafts; ideal to observe local life and purchase souvenirs, open 7:00am–3:00pm.
Free, 1h0m

11:00am

Cooking class in Portuguese cuisine

Join a half-day cooking class learning to prepare authentic Algarve dishes, including seafood specialties.
EUR70, 4h0m

3:30pm

Rest & relaxation

Take some downtime after your cooking experience.
Free, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at your accommodation or local restaurant

Enjoy a quiet meal reflecting on your culinary adventure.
Approx. EUR20, 1h30m
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Day 18: Free Day

Albufeira, Portugal on June 28, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at your leisure

Enjoy breakfast at your accommodation or explore a new café in Albufeira.
Varies, 1h0m

10:00am

Flexible activities

Choose from beach, shopping, or revisiting favourite spots at your own pace.
Varies, 5h0m

3:00pm

Coffee and sight-seeing

Visit any museums, viewpoints or galleries you may have missed.
Varies, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at a local seafood tavern

End the day with simple, fresh seafood dishes in an authentic setting.
EUR25, 1h30m
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Day 19: Explore Lagos or Faro

Albufeira, Portugal on June 29, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Padaria Central

Start early with fresh baked goods in town before your day trip.
EUR6, 1h0m

9:00am

Day trip to Faro

Visit the Algarve’s administrative centre with a charming old town and catacombs, accessible by train or car in about 45 minutes.
EUR8 train return, 7h0m

5:00pm

Return to Albufeira

Relax back at your accommodation after the day exploring Faro.
Included, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Don Alfonso

Experience Italian-Portuguese fusion cuisine in Albufeira’s old town.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 20: Outdoor Activities

Albufeira, Portugal on June 30, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Café Inglês

Fuel for an active day with a tasty breakfast in town.
EUR7, 1h0m

9:30am

Golf or biking

Spend the morning at a local golf course or rent a bike to cycle coastal or countryside trails. Golf courses typically open 8:00am–7:00pm.
EUR40 for golf rental, EUR15 for bike hire, 4h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Restaurante Vila Velha

A charming Mediterranean inspired restaurant near Albufeira's marina, open 12:30pm–10:00pm.
EUR25, 1h0m

3:00pm

Relax at Praia de São Rafael

Spend the afternoon at a picturesque beach with calm waters and cliffs, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Free, 3h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Restaurante Dom Carlos

Enjoy your last dinner in Albufeira with traditional Algarve specialities in an elegant setting.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 21: Packing & Departure Prep

Albufeira, Portugal on July 1, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at accommodation

Stay relaxed with a calm breakfast while packing and preparing for departure.
Included, 1h0m

10:00am

Last minute shopping or beach walk

Take a final stroll along the beach or pick up last souvenirs for home.
Varies, 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at local café

Enjoy a light lunch close to your accommodation.
EUR15, 1h0m

3:00pm

Relax and pack up

Ensure all belongings are ready for departure the next day.
Free, 2h0m

7:00pm

Farewell Dinner at a beachfront restaurant

Have a memorable final meal with sea views and Portuguese cuisine.
EUR35, 1h30m
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Day 22: Departure

Albufeira, Portugal on July 2, 2025

7:00am

Early breakfast

Enjoy a final quick breakfast before checking out.
Included, 0h45m

8:00am

Travel to Faro Airport

Depart Albufeira and head to Faro Airport for your onward journey, approximately 45 minutes by taxi or shuttle.
EUR30, 0h45m
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