Spain, France, Switzerland and Italy in 15 days

After arriving at Madrid-Barajas Airport, we will be greeted and transferred to our hotel.

We will have the rest of the day to relax and begin enjoying the capital of Spain.

Madrid, lively and awake at all hours, is famous for being an open city where people of all kinds and from anywhere come together.

In addition to its well-known museums, lively avenues with all kinds of shops, world cuisine restaurants, and incomparable nightlife, Madrid surprises with quiet historic corners full of charm for strolls.

There, we will find centuries-old taverns with family traditions where friends gather for a drink, neighborhoods of all styles, and alternative cultural centers away from the more touristy circuits.

At the same time, this city has an authenticity that is hard to match. It is hospitable, diverse, and undoubtedly one of the most interesting in Europe.

Greca Tip: As in any other large city, the center of Madrid offers a diverse variety of gastronomic venues to suit all tastes, where you can taste the traditional local tapas.

Following breakfast, we will set out to discover the vibrant heart of Madrid, a city where centuries of history blend seamlessly with elegant boulevards and lively public squares. Our panoramic tour introduces some of the Spanish capital’s most iconic landmarks, including Paseo del Prado, the fountains of Cibeles and Neptuno, Puerta de Alcalá, Plaza de Colón, and the historic Plaza Mayor, each reflecting a different chapter of Madrid’s rich cultural heritage.

Our journey continues to Retiro Park, the city's beloved green sanctuary. Here, we will admire its peaceful lake and the striking Crystal Palace, a remarkable glass pavilion surrounded by beautiful gardens. Later, we will visit the legendary Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, home to Real Madrid and one of the world's most celebrated football venues, where passion for the sport and sporting history come together in an unforgettable setting. The remainder of the afternoon will be yours to explore Madrid at your own pace before concluding another rewarding day in Spain's dynamic capital.

Greca Tip: Madrid’s Plaza Mayor has witnessed royal ceremonies, markets, and celebrations for more than four centuries, making it one of the city's most emblematic gathering places.

In the morning, as soon as you finish breakfast, you will depart towards Aragon, crossing the lands of the Castile region.

Once in Zaragoza, you will make a brief stop to visit the Basilica of Our Lady of Pilar. The basilica is dedicated to the Virgin Mary, specifically under the title of Our Lady of Pilar. According to tradition, the Virgin Mary appeared to the apostle Saint James the Greater on a pillar (made of jasper) and instructed him to build a church at that location. The basilica was constructed over the centuries and is famous for its unique Baroque architecture.

Afterward, you will continue to the Monastery of Poblet, surrounded by walls in a beautiful location, which is one of the best-preserved medieval monasteries in the world.

Following this, you will proceed to Barcelona, arriving in the evening.

Barcelona is a vibrant and culturally rich city located in the Catalonia region of Spain. It is known for its unique architecture, historical significance, art, and lively atmosphere.

Greca Tip: The Boqueria Market in Barcelona is a vibrant food market where you can sample local products.

After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, we will set out in the morning on a panoramic tour of Barcelona, one of Europe’s most captivating capitals. Nestled along the shores of the Mediterranean, this vibrant city dazzles with the whimsical modernist creations of Gaudí, the lively Ramblas, and a rich legacy shaped by milestones such as the Universal Exposition and the Olympic Games.

The afternoon will be free for you to continue exploring at your own pace, whether that means wandering through charming neighborhoods, relaxing by the sea, or discovering hidden corners of the city.

In the evening, we will provide a transfer to Maremagnum, a modern complex by the sea near Plaza de Colón, where the energy of Barcelona blends with the Mediterranean breeze. Here, you may take a pleasant stroll through the lively area and choose from a wide selection of dining options to end the day on a perfect note.

Greca Tip: Don’t leave Barcelona without tasting a plate of “pa amb tomàquet,” the traditional Catalan bread with tomato, often paired with local cured ham or cheese, it’s a simple yet unforgettable flavor of the region.

After breakfast, it will be time to leave Barcelona behind and continue your European adventure towards the French capital. At the scheduled time, we will provide a transfer to the railway station, where you will board the high-speed train bound for Paris. Sit back and enjoy a comfortable journey of just over six hours as the landscapes of Spain gradually give way to the picturesque countryside of France.

Upon arrival in Paris, one of the world's most iconic cultural capitals, a transfer will be waiting to take you to your hotel. The rest of the day will be yours to begin discovering the city's unique atmosphere, whether strolling along its elegant avenues or simply relaxing at a Parisian café. In the evening, your guide will contact you with details about the upcoming experiences, or you may consult the information available at your hotel reception to prepare for the days ahead.

Greca Tip: The high-speed rail connection between Barcelona and Paris is one of the most comfortable and sustainable ways to travel between Spain and France, offering scenic views throughout the journey.

Breakfast will prepare us for a day dedicated to discovering two of France’s most iconic landmarks, where royal history and artistic heritage come together. Our first destination will be the magnificent Palace of Versailles, the former residence of the French monarchy and one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in Europe. Although admission is not included, its elegant exterior and magnificent gardens offer a glimpse into the grandeur that defined the reign of Louis XIV and the influence of the French court.

Back in Paris, we will explore the enchanting district of Montmartre, a hilltop neighborhood celebrated for its bohemian spirit, charming streets, and long-standing connection to painters, musicians, and writers. To complete the day, a panoramic tour with a local guide will introduce the city's grand boulevards, elegant architecture, and world-famous landmarks, providing a deeper understanding of why Paris remains one of the world's most admired capitals.

Greca Tip: Montmartre was once home to legendary artists such as Picasso, Renoir, and Toulouse-Lautrec, making it one of the most influential artistic neighborhoods in Europe.

After enjoying a delicious breakfast, we will go to the center of Paris, starting by the Eiffel Tower, where we will have the opportunity to go up to the second floor of this remarkable metal monument (ticket included).

Designed by Gustave Eiffel and his engineering company, the Eiffel et Compagnie, the tower was built as the centerpiece of the 1889 Exposition Universelle (World's Fair) held in Paris to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution. Construction began in 1887 and was completed in 1889, taking a mere two years, two months, and five days.

Then, we enjoy a boat cruise along the River Seine, which divides the north of Paris from the south. We will have the rest of the afternoon free to explore this magical city.

As we glide along the river, we'll pass by some of Paris's most iconic landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, Louvre Museum, Musée d'Orsay, and the majestic bridges that span the Seine. These landmarks look even more stunning from the water, providing excellent photo opportunities.

Greca Tip: Treat yourself to a delicious French meal at a local restaurant or bistro. Sample classic dishes like coq au vin, boeuf bourguignon, or escargots, and savor the flavors of French cuisine. Don't forget to save room for dessert. Paris is famous for its pastries and sweets!

After our breakfast, we will travel to the center of France, to the Bourgogne region, famous for its wines. Making a stop in Semur-en-Auxois, a small medieval town listed, surrounded by impressive walls.

After this we will visit Beaune, located in the center of the Bourgogne region, with its streets full of flowers, hospice and wine museum all points of interest. There we will have ime for lunch and wander through the charming streets of Beaune's Old Town, lined with historic buildings, quaint shops, and inviting cafés. Don't miss the chance to see the 15th-century Beaune Clock Tower and the picturesque Place Carnot.

Continuing on, we will arrive to Lyon in the mid-afternoon, the capital of Roman Gallia on the banks of the Rhône (its historic center has been declared a World Heritage site). We include a funicular climb to Notre Dame de Fourvière, where we have a great view of
the city. After, we will enjoy some leisure time to walk around.

During the Roman Empire, Lyon thrived as a major economic, political, and cultural hub. It was renowned for its trade networks, amphitheaters, theaters, and temples. The city's Roman past is still evident in its well-preserved archaeological sites, such as the Roman Theater and Odeon.

Greca Tip: Discover Lyon's illuminated landmarks on an evening stroll along the banks of the Rhône and Saône rivers. Admire the beautifully lit bridges, buildings, and monuments, including the iconic Fourvière Hill and its basilica.

After a fantastic breakfast, we will set off for Switzerland. Once we arrive in Geneve, the guide will take us to the Palais des Nations (the European headquarters of the United Nations), the beautiful “Jardin Anglais” (with its quaint flower clock), and the “Jet d´Eau”, the tallest fountain in Europe.

Geneva has long been associated with international diplomacy and humanitarianism. It is home to numerous international organizations, including the United Nations Office at Geneva (UNOG), the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, and the World Health Organization (WHO). The city has hosted many important diplomatic conferences and negotiations throughout history.

After lunch, we will continue travelling through Switzerland by the beautiful Leman, Neuchatel and Biel lakes. We will drive the scenic road alongside the three large lakes, with their magnificent vineyards overlooking the mountains. We will stop in Neuchatel, where we will enjoy a walk by the lake, the historic town center or visit its beautiful, 10th century castle.

In the 16th century, Neuchatel became a principality ruled by the House of Orléans-Longueville. It remained an independent principality until 1848 when it joined the Swiss Confederation as a canton.

We will then head to Zurich, where we will arrive in the late afternoon.

Greca Tip: Enjoy panoramic views of Zurich's skyline and the surrounding mountains from one of the city's rooftop bars. Sip on cocktails or fine Swiss wines as you soak up the atmosphere and watch the sunset over the city. Popular rooftop bars include Clouds Bar, Terrasse, and Jules Verne Panoramabar.

We start the day with our breakfast and a stroll in the most populated city of Switzerland, Zurich, the financial and cultural capital of the country. Zurich has twice been declared the city with the best quality of life in the world. After this we will board a boat for a trip on Zurich lake, this will last about two hours. The boat makes brief stops, allowing us to admire the villages along the way.

We get off in Rapperswil, a small and highly picturesque village overlooked by its medieval castle, constructed in the early 13th century, played a central role in the town's history. Over the centuries, it served as a residence for various noble families and as a stronghold against potential invaders.

Rapperswil was founded in the early 13th century by Count Rudolf II of Rapperswil. The town grew around Rapperswil Castle, which was built on a hill overlooking Lake Zurich to control trade routes and protect the region.

We return to Zurich by train and will see the efficiency and punctuality of the Swiss Railways. After, we will enjoy an evening in the historic center next to the lake, here we can dine at one of the many restaurants offering a wide range of different cuisines.

Today, Zurich is a global city known for its high quality of life, economic prosperity, and cultural diversity. It continues to thrive as a leading financial center, with a strong emphasis on innovation, technology, and sustainability. Zurich's historic Old Town, vibrant cultural scene, and picturesque setting on Lake Zurich make it a popular destination for visitors from around the world.

Greca Tip: Zurich remained neutral during both World War I and World War II, serving as a safe haven for refugees fleeing conflict and persecution. The city's humanitarian efforts and commitment to neutrality earned it a reputation as a center of international diplomacy and peace.

After a delicious breakfast, we will continue our adventure. Today's journey has beautiful landscapes with high mountains and lakes.

Breathtaking scenery in the region of Interlaken. We will stop in Grindelwald, where we will have time for a coffee before taking the cable car up to the mountain.

We will walk along the winding path which will lead us to the "footbridge over the empty". Dare to walk along the bridge amongst the fantastic scenery, enjoying glaciers all around us. We will take lunch up the mountain (included) before heading back down.

After breakfast, we will leave Zurich early in the morning and cut across the Alps in order to reach the Italian-speaking part of Switzerland. Alongside the route, we will get to see beautiful lakes and snow-capped mountains.

After the trip we will arrive in Lugano, the cosmopolitan capital of the Italian Switzerland built next to its beautiful lake. There, we will have time to have a stroll and grab lunch.

On our free time we will be able to walk through Lugano's charming Old Town, with its narrow cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and colorful piazzas. Discover hidden gems like the 16th-century Cathedral of Saint Lawrence (Cattedrale di San Lorenzo) and the picturesque Piazza della Riforma.

Next, we will reach the enchanting little town of Morcote famous for its flowery stone houses. In the 15th century, Morcote came under the control of the Dukes of Milan, who ruled over the territory of Ticino. During this time, the village prospered as a center of trade and commerce, benefiting from its strategic location on Lake Lugano.

We will then travel to Italy. Arrival in Milan, where the guide will take us to the impressive Duomo Square. Here you will find a variety of local and international restaurants to have dinner at.

The construction of the Milan Cathedral began in 1386 under the direction of the architect Simone da Orsenigo. Over the centuries, various architects and artists contributed to its design and construction, resulting in a blend of architectural styles, including Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque. 

Greca Tip: Don't forget to try the Risotto alla Milanese. This creamy saffron-infused risotto is a Milanese classic. Made with Arborio rice, saffron, butter, onion, white wine, and Parmesan cheese, it's a comforting and flavorful dish that perfectly showcases the region's culinary heritage.

Today we continue our journey towards Pisa. On a little tourist train, we will travel to the Piazza Dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles), where there will be time to
admire one of the most alluring and beautiful art complexes in Italy, including the well-known Leaning Tower of Pisa.

The characteristic lean of the tower is due to the unstable foundation upon which it was built. The tower began to lean during construction, likely due to the soft ground and inadequate foundation. As construction progressed, engineers attempted to compensate for the lean by making the upper floors taller on one side, but this only exacerbated the problem.

Then, we continue to Rome, arriving at the end of the day.

Greca Tip: In the evening, treat yourself to some authentic Italian gelato in Piazza Navona, one of Rome's most beautiful squares. Grab a cone or cup from one of the gelaterias and enjoy it as you take in the lively atmosphere and admire the Baroque fountains and sculptures.

Breakfast marks the beginning of an unforgettable day exploring Rome, a city where more than two thousand years of history continue to shape everyday life. We will enjoy a guided tour combining a panoramic drive with a walking exploration through Imperial Rome, discovering many of the landmarks that made the capital of the Roman Empire one of the most influential cities in Western civilization. Along the way, we will admire the Arch of Constantine, the exterior of the Colosseum and the Imperial Forums, Circus Maximus, the Baths of Caracalla, the Basilica of Saint Mary Major, the Pyramid of Cestius, and Castel Sant’Angelo, each revealing a different chapter of Rome’s remarkable past.

Our tour concludes in Vatican City, the spiritual heart of the Catholic Church, where you may choose to join an optional visit to the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel, home to Michelangelo’s world-famous masterpieces. Later, we will head to the lively Trastevere district, whose charming cobbled streets and inviting trattorias offer the perfect setting to experience authentic Roman cuisine and atmosphere before bringing another memorable day in Italy to a close.

Greca Tip: Trastevere takes its name from the Latin Trans Tiberim, meaning "across the Tiber," and remains one of Rome’s most authentic neighborhoods, renowned for its vibrant local character.

After enjoying your breakfast, and at the time indicated, you will be transferred to Rome Airport to board your flight back home or to your next destination.

After spending a few fantastic days with Greca, we hope to see you again soon to create more wonderful moments that will remain in your memory forever!

Have a nice trip! Or, as the locals say: "Buon Viaggio!".

Greca Tip: You can extend your stay in Rome, at Step 1 of your reservation.