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Barcelona, Florence & Athens Itinerary: 1-Week Southern Europe City Hopping Trip
7 Days
3 Stops
Private transfer
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Trip curated by Roman Karin
ExpertThe private tapas tour is the evening that makes the Barcelona stay special. Moving through the Born and the Raval with someone who knows the market bars and tiled taverns delivers a neighborhood map and a food culture that the Sagrada Família and Park Güell alone simply don't cover, and it's the kind of evening I always tell clients to prioritize over a restaurant reservation. In Florence, keep the Tuscany day and the city walking tour on separate days; the Pisa and countryside morning needs its own attention, and returning to the city in the evening with that rural context behind you changes how the streets read. What I always tell clients heading into Athens: the walking city tour earns more on the first morning than the second, when it gives you the Plaka and Monastiraki layout before you start exploring independently.
The private tapas tour is the evening that makes the Barcelona stay special. Moving through the Born and the Raval with someone who knows the market bars and tiled taverns delivers a neighborhood map and a food culture that the Sagrada Família and Park Güell alone simply don't cover, and it's the kind of evening I always tell clients to prioritize over a restaurant reservation. In Florence, keep the Tuscany day and the city walking tour on separate days; the Pisa and countryside morning needs its own attention, and returning to the city in the evening with that rural context behind you changes how the streets read. What I always tell clients heading into Athens: the walking city tour earns more on the first morning than the second, when it gives you the Plaka and Monastiraki layout before you start exploring independently.
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Barcelona
Day 1 - 2
Set on Spain’s gorgeous southeastern coast, the capital and largest city of the Catalonia region, Barcelona, is an exquisite, seaside metropolis. With its dizzying array of architecture and its world-class galleries and museums, artistic delights abound at every corner (most strikingly in the astonishingly whimsical structures designed by the prolific modernist architect Antoni Gaudi). Explore the winding alleys of the picturesque Gothic Quarter, take in the boisterous carnival atmosphere of the world famous, tree-lined La Rambla boulevard, or go on a gastronomical adventure through the city's restaurants. Head to one of the gorgeous white sandy beaches and when the sun sets, join the eclectic all-night party scene. Don’t miss the opportunity to see the phenomenal Sagrada Familia, take in an opera at the sublime Palau de la Musica Catalana, and watch a game at the famous Camp Nou stadium.
Hotel 1898
Hotel 1898 is a luxurious and historic hotel located in the heart of Barcelona on the famous La Rambla. Housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century building, this hotel combines elegance with rich history, offering guests a unique and memorable experience.
The rooms and suites at Hotel 1898 are tastefully designed, providing a blend of classic charm and modern comforts. Each space is equipped with high-end amenities to ensure a relaxing and indulgent stay, with many rooms offering stunning views of La Rambla or the hotel’s tranquil courtyard.
Dining at Hotel 1898 is a delight, with an exceptional restaurant that serves a variety of Mediterranean and international dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. Guests can also enjoy a drink at the rooftop bar, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of Barcelona’s skyline.
The hotel's luxurious spa provides a perfect retreat for relaxation, featuring a range of treatments and wellness facilities, including a heated pool. The central location of Hotel 1898 makes it easy to explore Barcelona’s major attractions, vibrant neighborhoods, and cultural highlights.
Your activity
Private Tapas tour: taverns & bars
Meet your local guide to enjoy the most inescapable element of Spanish cuisine: Tapas tour, popular all over the world. In all Spain's cities you will find bars, taverns & markets specialized in tapas. Spend few hours escorted by an expert guide who will point out little-known cultural and gastronomic landmarks, while listening to stories and legends of this tapas culture during the tour.
Florence
Day 3 - 4
Florence, the beautiful capital of the Italian region Tuscany, lies in the center of the country. A small city with a big heart, and an even bigger offering of artistic and historical treasures. For centuries, travelers have journeyed to the birthplace of the Renaissance era to marvel at the many masterpieces of architecture and art: Michelangelo's iconic David, the impressive works of Botticelli, the Uffizi Gallery (packed with works by Caravaggio and Da Vinci), and of course, Brunelleschi's remarkable dome — the religious centerpiece of Florence that dominates the skyline. All are absolute must-sees on any itinerary. Once you've ticked off these renowned attractions, you can take a stroll through the vast Boboli Gardens or climb the hill to the church of San Miniato al Monte for a breathtaking view of this beautiful, enchanting city.
Tivoli Palazzo Gaddi Florence Hotel
Tivoli Palazzo Gaddi Florence Hotel is located in a historical palace in the heart of Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance. It is only 400 meters from the magnificent Florence Cathedral, and its rooftop terrace offers stunning city views. The hotel features 86 elegant rooms equipped with air-conditioning, flat-screen TV, rain effect shower or bathtub, complimentary Wi-Fi and a comfortable bed with pillows. The hotel has a restaurant serving Tuscan and Mediterranean specialities and a spacious bar next to the hall.
Your activity
Highlights of Tuscany: Pisa & more
Enjoy the rich history and the art of the most spellbinding sights in Tuscany in a single memorable day including lunch in a typical Tuscan restaurant!
Depart to Pisa, you will reach the Field of Miracles, a green grass field dominated by the dazzling white buildings of the Cathedral, the Baptistery and the famous Tower, exquisite examples of Pisan Romanesque architecture: the Leaning Toweris almost 56 meters tall (about 183 ft). You are in one of the most world known places: revel in it, take creative photographs or wander off down the local streets. From Pisa, we drive past hilltop hamlets scattered over some of the most beautiful and enchanting view of the countryside up to arrive at San Gimignano where a traditional Tuscan Lunch withTasting of 4 different wines, will be served. After lunch, your visit continues to the discovery of a Tuscan medieval pearl, the stunning village of San Gimignano, Unesco world heritage, known for the ancient town planning still intact. Free time to explore the town center, the charming craftsmen’s shops along the cobbled stone streets and small squares. Our last stop is Siena, which we will reach by driving through the lovely Chianti countryside. Siena is an amazing hilltop town,rich in works of art and traditions, famous monuments and picturesque views with a fascinating pedestrianized historical center and one of the most beautiful Cathedrals in the world. Upon arrival in Siena our local guide will take you on a guided walking tour along the small medieval streets and squares, passing the oldest bank in the world, and the Piazza del Campo - site of the famous 600-year-old Palio horse-race, to the spectacular Cathedral. You will also have free time to walk around the historic center as you like and conclude your memorable experience of Tuscany with the memory of a perfect day.
Meeting point at 7:15 am Piazzale Montelungo at the end of the ramp connecting with the railway station.
Group size - 50/55 pax
Start time: 07:30 AM
Athens
Day 5 - 7
Dominating the Attica region of Greece, the country’s capital, Athens, is one of the oldest cities in the world. For over two and a half centuries, the astonishing Greek temples and monuments of Athens have continued to intrigue and amaze visitors from around the world. This icon of western civilization seamlessly combines ancient history with modern architecture and a surprisingly lively atmosphere. This is particularly apparent in areas at the foot of the Acropolis, Anafiotika, Plaka, Monastiraki, and Thissio where visitors will find numerous extraordinary Neoclassical buildings, trendy and traditional cafes, and shops, and narrow winding streets with historical treasures at every turn. Once you have enjoyed a history and art fix, try some mouth-watering Greek cuisine at one of the city’s fine local restaurants before indulging in the insatiable nightlife at the chic cocktail bars and waterfront dance clubs.
Athenian Callirhoe Hotel
With a stay at Athenian Callirhoe Hotel, you'll be centrally located in Athens, just a 4-minute walk from Acropolis Museum and 12 minutes by foot from Acropolis. This hotel is 1.1 mi (1.8 km) from Syntagma Square and 6 mi (9.6 km) from Port of Piraeus.
Enjoy recreational amenities such as a sauna and a fitness center. This hotel also features complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and wedding services.
Stay in one of 84 guestrooms featuring LCD televisions. Your bed comes with down comforters and premium bedding. 20-inch Smart televisions with satellite programming provide entertainment, while complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected. Private bathrooms have complimentary toiletries and hair dryers.
Your activity
Athens Walking City Tour
The tour begins in front of the Parliament in Syntagma Square where you will see the Monument of the Unknown Soldier and the change of the famous Guards. A pleasant walk will follow through the National Gardenand on to the Zappeion Hall, the Temple of Olympian Zeus and Hadrian's Arch. From here you will enter the Plaka area heading to the Acropolis and visit with your guide the Propylaea, the Temple of Nike, and the Parthenon, the monuments that remind us of the Glory of Ancient Athens and the Golden Age of Pericles. See also in the surrounding the Athenian Agora, the Observatory, the Hill of Democracy (Pnyx), Mars and Philoppapos Hill, the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, and the Theater of Dionysus. At the end of the tour, and since you are so close, do not miss the opportunity to visit on your own the New Acropolis Museum.
The tour start time: at 09.40 from the Amalia Hotel
Group size: Max 48 pax
From$2,400
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Excellent
Why plan with an expert?
200+
Plan with professionals who are explorers themselves.
22+ hours of time saved
Our experts plan and book for you.
10+ Bookings managed
Everything is bundled in one place and perfectly planned.
6+ Transfers coordinated
For optimal transport and comfort.
Excellent
Itinerary inspiration
Two nights in Barcelona, two in Florence, two in Athens — each city gets a focused stay rather than a rushed one, and the trip moves east and south in a sequence that makes both geographic and cultural sense. Barcelona's Mediterranean inventiveness gives way to Florence's Renaissance precision, and Athens closes with ancient history under open sky.
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What I appreciate about the Florence section specifically is the Tuscany and Pisa excursion placed alongside the historic center visit. Pisa is worth the drive; the cathedral square and the Leaning Tower are more impressive in person than any photograph suggests, and the Tuscan countryside between Florence and the coast rewards the journey in both directions.
Day 1–2: Barcelona
Hotel: Hotel 1898
Hotel 1898 is on La Rambla, which makes the Gothic Quarter, the Boqueria market, and the waterfront all walkable. The Sagrada Familia and Park Güell are best covered on the same morning — the Sagrada Familia at opening, Park Güell in the early afternoon before the timed entry slots fill. The private tapas tour on the first evening sets up the city's food culture well before the architectural visits begin.
Day 3–4: Florence
Hotel: Tivoli Palazzo Gaddi Florence Hotel
The Tuscany and Pisa excursion fills one day, the walking tour through the historic center the other. The Ponte Vecchio in the early morning before the goldsmiths open is one of the quieter pleasures of a Florence stay: the bridge belongs to the city rather than its visitors at that hour.
Day 5–7: Athens
Hotel: The Athenian Callirhoe Exclusive Hotel
Two nights with the guided city tour and Acropolis visit on the first day and the Plaka, Monastiraki, and surrounding neighborhoods on the second. The evening walk up to the Filopappou viewpoint — with the Parthenon lit across the valley — is worth doing before dinner on the first night.
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Tips for your trip to Spain, Italy & Greece
The best time to visit these countries depends on your preferences and what you plan to do. The shoulder seasons of spring and fall are generally recommended for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer is ideal for beaches, but expect more visitors and higher prices.
➔ Best time to travel to Spain | Best time to travel to Italy | Best time to travel to Greece
The cost of your trip will vary based on your budget and travel style. A mid-range, week-long trip to Spain is about $1,375, a trip to Italy is about $1,700, and a mid-range week in Greece is about $1,100.
➔ Travel cost Spain | Travel cost Italy | Travel cost Greece
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