Madrid, Spain - Bari, Italy 31 day trip

Madrid is where ancient and old meet modern and cosmopolitan, where sightseeing, dancing, and shopping go hand in hand.

Spectacular enough to rival the Louvre, this museum is well-known for its revered art collection including best national artists.

Old Madrid offers a range of exploration from small charming residences, to elaborate mansions, to a number of churches.

This must-see museum provides a comprehensive journey of prehistoric, Iberian, Visigothic, Muslim, and Christian cultures.

Housed in an old hospital, this museum holds a most excellent collection of art by 20C Spanish artists.

This magnificent monasterial complex boasts a palace, a church, an ancient library, royal apartments, and many more historic gems.

A memorial dedicated to those who fell during the Spanish Civil War, covering over 3,360 acres of beautiful woodland.

The historical richness of Salamanca's architecture has earned it a status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Strolling through the historic center takes you through the lovely winding streets, steeped with a delightful character.

This 18C square, the heart of the city, offers a great atmosphere and a fun crowd, all observable from one of numerous cafes.

Complementing the adjacent New Cathedral, this Romanesque cathedral features great chapels, colors, and a wonderful lantern tower.

This beautiful cathedral features Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque elements, testament to the centuries it took to build.

A great destination for active nature lovers, this mountainous area offers great outdoor opportunities.

Visible for miles, this prominent mountain with a monastery atop of it offers a 360-degree panorama of the entire region.

Stroll through this renowned university and enjoy its facades, its library, the lovely patio, and especially the fine cloister.

This unique 15C Gothic residence is symbolically decorated with 300 seashells, as well as featuring other notable ornamentation.

A 15C Renaissance convent, featuring a unique cloister full of captivating sculptures and interesting architectural curios.

Built in the 16C and 17C, this church with a massive gorgeous facade is an elegant combination of Gothic and Renaissance styles.

A remarkable example of surviving Visigothic architecture, this 7C church impressively commands its surroundings.

This mountain range is rich with lakes, lush vegetation, and wild animals, much of which is preserved in a national reserve.

Housed in a delightfully fitting building, this museum displays excellent decorative art, as well as modern artists such as Mucha.

Known for its stunning fortified walls, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is full of medieval history as well as superb food.

This 15C Mudejar castle looms over the countryside, featuring excellent architecture, a chapel, and several lovely courtyards.

Famous for its wine, Portugal's second largest city boasts a lovely waterfront and several historical sites and monuments.

One of Porto's most significant landmarks, this 12C cathedral is an architectural collage of striking beauty and historical value.

A cultural institution, set on an 18ha estate, featuring a park, a contemporary art museum, and a villa.

A wine cellar owned by one of Porto’s most historic and famous wine producers, it houses a museum and a port tasting room.

Wander through the cobbled streets of Porto and discover one of Portugal’s historic cities; wine and dine in exquisite venues.

This unique natural park was created to preserve and maintain the dunes and the wildlife in the area, especially birds and fish.

Over 7,000 ha of mountainous land, this park is home to waterfalls, granite rock formations, and an abundance of flora and fauna.

A 14C Gothic church, it boasts an impressive Baroque facade, rich interiors of gilded wood paneling, as well as hidden underground catacombs.

A beauty of Baroque design, this 18C church boasts extraordinary ornaments and a monumental bell-tower which is a local icon.

This 18C church is a breathtaking sight with its lush Rococo facade, a magnificently tiled exterior wall, and seven gilt altars.

Covered with nearly 16,000 exquisitely painted ceramic tiles, this 18C chapel exudes an irresistible storybook charm.

During the dry season this 1C submerged village appears for visitors to explore and admire.

A stunning 18C hilltop Baroque sanctuary, boasting an impressive staircase as well as spectacular scenic views.

Be sure to visit Porto's former stock exchange, a superb example of Neoclassic palatial architecture, with many hidden gems within.

The commercial hub of Porto can be found along this wide pedestrian avenue, lined with shops and beautiful architectural gems.

This 100 year old bookstore is unlike any other, with its picturesque facade, winding staircase and wrap-around Gothic shelves.

Built in 1900, this historic station is known for the 20,000 azjuelos that decorate its walls, depicting the history of Portugal.

A mountainous forest replete with a large variety of greenery, and home to a 17C monastery and a Neo-Manueline summer palace.

Formerly a place of Pagan worship, this 17C seaside chapel boasts beautiful views and hand-painted azulejos.

Stretching along the Douro River, this quay is home to many restaurants and bars that are sure to satisfy everyone’s taste buds.

A single-track funicular, running up the cliff of Batalha, it offers great views of the river, as well as the Dom Luís I Bridge.

A 19C museum set in an old convent, home to exhibitions of Portuguese artwork and decorative arts.

A 15C Renaissance church boasting a rich interior of stunning gilded wood carvings in Baroque style.

The country’s first capital in the 12C, this historic city features a very well preserved medieval town.

This chapel was built in the 20C to house the incorrupt remains of Saint Mary Adelaide, which are on display in a glass coffin.

A picturesque city set on a hill, which offers a wide range of restaurants, cafes, pastry shops, monuments and nightclubs.

Established in 1290, it is one of the oldest universities in the world, whose campus houses several impressive historic buildings.

An opulent 18C botanical garden, spanning 13ha of greenhouses, herbariums, and unique specimen, all maintained by the university.

Take a pleasant stroll through the ancient streets of Coimbra and discover monuments, museums, shops and eateries on your way.

Enjoy a cup of coffee in one of the many cafes littering this pedestrian square, and admire the surrounding architectural diversity.

A series of remarkable grottoes, home to elaborate limestone formations and a neat exhibition of minerals and fossils.

A beautiful river, perfect for sightseeing cruises, bird watching, and enjoying a peaceful sunny afternoon in the sand.

An art museum set in a former palace, dedicated to Portuguese and Flemish sculpture and painting, as well as local artwork.

An 18C library built in a Rococo style, it contains about 250,000 volumes covering medicine, humanistic studies, philosophy and more.

Well-preserved ruins of a 14C monastery, offering great examples of Gothic architecture soaked in history.

Located a short distance from the Old Town, this leisure area is home to a blooming ecosystem and offers great respite from the city.

A mountainous forest replete with a large variety of greenery, and home to a 17C monastery and a Neo-Manueline summer palace.

Two mountain ranges connected by a deep valley, this park is known for its beautiful caves and breathtaking scenery.

Portugal’s first cathedral was built by its first king in the 12C. It features Romanesque architecture and a beautiful cloister.

The more recent cathedral of Coimbra was built in the 16C. Its facade is a beautiful combination of Baroque and Mannerist styles.

Located in the Coimbra University's old quarter, this 15C chapel boasts luxurious decorative designs, and an impressive 18C organ.

Hidden in the heart of the Old Town, this 12C church is rich with history and remnants of elaborate Romanesque design.

A historical town set on the banks of the River Tagus, home to a number of exquisite Templars, churches, and scenic viewpoints.

A vast archaeological site, home to one of Portugal’s largest Roman settlements. It contains several ruins and interesting artifacts.

A coastal town, set on a cliff over a long stretch of sand, popular for its beach, water sports facilities and charming old town.

Besides offering excellent surfing conditions, this Blue Flag beach is also ideal for enjoying a relaxing day sunbathing.

Enjoy the fresh ocean breeze as you wander through the picturesque narrow streets of Nazare’s historic center.

This noted church is decorated with painted tiles depicting biblical scenes, and it boasts twin bell towers and a gorgeous apse.

A series of remarkable grottoes, home to elaborate limestone formations and a neat exhibition of minerals and fossils.

An archipelago of small uninhabited islands, one of which can be visited. It boasts nice beaches, a lighthouse, and a fort.

An impressive and majestic 17C Baroque palace and monastery, containing a basilica, two main towers, a convent and a library.

Two mountain ranges connected by a deep valley, this park is known for its beautiful caves and breathtaking scenery.

A destination in Italy frequented by few tourists.

Stroll through Molfetta's town center and absorb the local
atmosphere

Located on a small hill, this uniquely constructed fortress dates to the 13C and affords lovely views of the surrounding area.

Abandoned in the 1980s due to natural disasters, this ancient town dates to the 6C BC and retains a unique almost-biblical scenery.

A most striking town, Matera seems to hail straight from the middle ages, rich in churches, fine buildings, and history.

Situated on the beautiful Gargano Peninsula, this national park offers its visitors cliffs, caves, superb views, hiking, or cycling.

Explore the lush expanses of this national park, rife with natural attractions, archaeological sites, and breathtaking scenery.

Famed for its traditional and somewhat peculiar trulli buildings, this historic little town is a national cultural monument.

The capital of Portugal, Lisbon is a lively city filled with restaurants, shops, buzzing nightlife, and historical sites.

A 16C architectural gem of Manueline art, the UNESCO World Heritage Site monastery features an ornate facade and a peaceful courtyard.

Wander through the lively streets of Lisbon and discover beautiful architecture, historical sites, and stunning viewpoints.

An art museum displaying a vast collection of ancient Oriental and Classical art, as well as 11C-20C European art.

A 17C palace, formerly used as hunting pavilion, it boasts a 16C chapel and beautiful artwork decorating the different rooms.

Its structures melt into the wild natural surroundings, this 16C convent embodies the spirit of the minimalism its order practiced.

A majestic 19C Romanticist hilltop palace, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

A museum dedicated to the history of carriages in Portugal, it displays an exquisite collection of 16C-20C carriages.

These winding cobbled streets are where you’ll find the city's trendiest restaurants, bars and shops.

A 5C hillside castle that has been modified throughout the centuries. It boasts beautiful scenic views of the surrounding area.

This 16C garden is the ideal spot for enjoying a peaceful afternoon in the sun or a short walk in the woods.

Surrounded by lush gardens, this 19C villa is famed for a superb mixture of Gothic, Indian, and Moorish architectural elements.

An impressive and majestic 17C Baroque palace and monastery, containing a basilica, two main towers, a convent and a library.

An art museum set in a 17C palace dedicated to presenting the history of Portugal through collections of 12C-19C art.

Lisbon’s oldest church was built in the 12C. Its continuous reconstruction resulted in an intriguing mix of architectural styles.

A 16C Romanesque-Gothic tower, originally built to serve as a lighthouse. It offers beautiful views of the river and the city.

A wide pedestrian avenue, lined with architectural gems, it is the perfect spot for enjoying a shopping trip and a pleasant meal.

A scenic viewpoint at 500m above sea level in a natural park, home to a large cross and spectacular panoramic views.

Home to a wealth of beautiful flora and fauna, this park is especially popular due to its proximity to the city of Lisbon.

A cultural center dedicated to Portugal’s relationship with the Orient, it houses a collection of intricate pieces from the Far East.

Climb to the top of this historical stone monument to enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the old town, castle and river.

A beautiful scenic viewpoint set in front of a small chapel offering views of the Sao Jorge castle and Lisbon’s historic center.

Set in a charming garden, this is one of Lisbon’s most beautiful belvederes, offering spectacular views of the city and the river.

A cape west of Sesimbra, popular for its impressive views of the Atlantic Ocean, an active chapel, and a picturesque lighthouse.

Located just 10km south of Lisbon, this popular seaside city is known for its excellent beaches and delicious, fresh seafood.

Granada is simply spectacular, with its Moorish history and culture beautifully preserved to this very day.

Stunningly beautiful, this 9C fortress complex boasts an array of architectural styles, several palaces, and a rich medieval air.

An elegant 14C residential palace, boasting lush gardens, water features at every turn, and stately pavilions.

This 16C palace is superbly designed with its two-story courtyard, also housing two excellent museums.

Erected by the Catholic monarchy, this 16C chapel features fantastic mausoleums, superb Gothic architecture, and an art museum.

This immense cave is a show of natural wonder and a testament to the Paleolithic Era with findings of weapons, bones, and more.

Walk along the walls of this narrow gorge to enjoy breathtaking views and a truly unique experience. Children must be at least eight years old.

Dating to the 16C, this gorgeous cathedral features Baroque and Renaissance elements, as well as spectacular architectural design.

Originally an Arab district, the remains of its fortress are best approached through the narrow, hilly paths known for their views.

Established in the 16C, this monastery is awe-striking in its vast and detailed ornamentation, boasting Renaissance architecture.

From the terrace of St. Nicholas Church, this site provides a commanding view and an intriguing perspective of the surroundings.

A short walk from the El Chorro campsite leads to a suspension bridge stretching over one of the most stunning gorges there are.

This steep gorge is the setting of several popular villages: Pampaneira, Bubion, and Capileira.

Established in the 16C, the Carthusian monastery retains much of its original Baroque elegance, as well as rich decorative details.

Located at an elevation of 2,014m, this road winds through the lush landscape of Sierra Nevada, offering a wealth of natural scenery.

This 214,000ha reserve is an excellent choice for exploring Spain's mountains, whether by vehicle or a well-planned hiking trip.

While Valencia retains a pride and tight connection to its past, it also is extremely modernized in its demeanor and culture.

Begin exploring Old Valencia by having breakfast or lunch in the friendly and bustling Mare de Deu Plaza.

This expansive complex includes an opera hall, an interactive science museum, and the largest aquarium in Europe.

The Valencia beach is popular for its sand, sun, and surf, with some areas offering amenities and others more tranquil.

Housed in a 17C palace, this museum hosts a wealth of medieval artworks, as well as sculptures, archaeological findings, and more.

Book in advance if you want to visit this amazing winery, sampling Spanish wines and enjoying the views of the surrounding vineyards.

Trace the history of this castle by the artifacts left by its former inhabitants, from Romans, to Arabs, to Christians.

Dating to the 13C, this Gothic church as built on the site of a mosque. It is renowned for its unique mixture of architectural styles.

Part of the City of Arts and Sciences, this must-see aquarium, the largest in Europe, is home to more than 500 aquatic species.

This 15C Gothic building was once the heart of Valencia's trade, and now retains ornate exterior and elaborate decor.

Housed in a 15C Baroque palace with lavish exterior, the museum displays over 5,000 ceramic artworks dating as far back as the 13C.

Known for its rich history and amazing old architecture, this remarkable Spanish town hosts annual festivals to celebrate its iconic castle.

Learn about Spanish wine production and sample some delicious wines at this excellent winery. Make sure to book in advance.

If not traveling by train, you should visit this modern early 20C station, with murals throughout complimenting its uniqueness.

Built in the 14C, this Templar fort guarantees a lengthy visit as you explore its ramparts and views of the surroundings.

A beautiful mountain town, Teruel shows off an interesting landscape of Christian, Jewish, and Muslim influences from its past.

A vibrant metropolis set on the Mediterranean Sea, famed for its brilliant architecture, rich culture, and captivating history.

Recognized as the masterpiece of Antoni Gaudi, this incomplete church is an exquisite blend of Gothicism and Art Nouveau.

In the heart of the city center, this historic quarter is full of Gothic architectural gems, as well as artifacts dating to the 4C.

A marvel of landscaping by Antoni Gaudi, this park blends lush gardens with architectural curios, and is full of whimsical statues.

The center remains the heart of Barcelona, combining historic sites and cultural monuments with cafes, shops, and fun activities.

Dating to the 11C, this cliffside monastery boasts Romanesque features and is surrounded by the breathtaking nature of the Cingles de Berti.

A beautiful mountaintop abbey that offers breathtaking views over the whole of Catalonia, and houses a famed image of Black Madonna.

Once the city's infamous Chinatown, today the neighborhood is best known for its nightlife and a myriad of diverse eateries.

Located centrally in the Gothic Quarter, this cultural square is surrounded by some of Barcelona's most grand medieval buildings.

Walk down this major avenue, admiring fantastic architectural gems, browsing the various shops, and enjoying the local cafes.

Established in the 15C, this famous avenue is lively, colorful, and manic, with ever-changing commerce, nature, and celebrations.

Take a guided tour through the salt mines to explore the breathtaking caves and learn about salt mining in the region.

Heavenly visions guided two young shepherds to this cave in the 9C, where they discovered a relic of the Virgin Mary.

Known for its famous "Promenade des Anglais", this port city boasts a rich cultural life and a profusion of modern artworks.

The Plateau St-Michel offers some beautiful views over Nice and the Bay of Angels, take your time and enjoy this lovely promenade.

Western Europe's largest Eastern Orthodox church was built to honor Nicholas Alexandrovich, Tsarevich of Russia who died in Nice.

Stroll the narrow streets and relax in a cafe terrace, from which you can do some people watching.

Housed in the 17C Villa des Arenes, this museum holds one of the largest collections of Matisse works in the world.

This is a beautiful archipelago with many charming islands, such as Le Levant and Porquerolles.

Cannes is a famous upscale seaside resort town in the Riviera, it offers fantastic beaches, food, and nightlife.

This museum has an amazing collection of modern and contemporary art from some of the most prestigious artists.

Whether public or private, relax and enjoy in one of the large and lovely beaches of Nice.

Wandering through this museum is a wonderful way to discover Asian history and culture.

Housed in a majestic building, this museum offers beautiful collections of 17C to 19C European art.

Admire the superb Cians River as it winds through the natural sculptures it created over the years.

Profuse with fresh greenery and the unique color of red cliffs, this gorge is a must-see in the Var region.

This museum holds the famous Message Biblique series and has the largest collection of work by Chagall.

A famed route taken by Napoleon in 1815 towards the Battle of Waterloo, featuring the natural beauty of the riviera, the Alps, and much more.

While visiting here, be sure to see St. Marguerite Island, a beautiful place covered in eucalyptus and pine.

A small historic city well-known for its culinary produce, as well as lovely natural surroundings and a few notable cultural curios.

Stroll through Parma's historic center, visit the small shops for some souvenirs, and be sure to sample the famed local prosciutto.

While bearing an unremarkable Romanesque facade, this 12C cathedral boasts exquisite frescoes and various artworks.

This large ducal complex is centered upon three courtyards, and now houses museums, a theater, an art school, and a gallery.

A striking rock formation reaching the height of over 1,000m, boasting a national park and an array of tropical vegetation.

Hemmed with charming small towns, this lovely lake little-known, but boasts marvelous scenery and a serene atmosphere.

Comprised of five colorful villages, this Italian town sprawls over terraced rocks along the coast and offers spectacular scenery.

Immortalized in several Shakespearean plays, Verona lures travelers with its culture, rich history, and unforgettable atmosphere.

Spanning 70km, only 2 of which are open to the public, this marvelous karst cave system is rich with mesmerizing rock formations.

Riddled with trails of various lengths, this limestone cave system features stalactites, subterranean lakes, mud formations, and more.

A cultural hub throughout its history, this major port boasts fascinating landmarks, a great culinary scene, and vibrant nightlife.

Explore the chic and beautiful streets of this city center, admiring the architecture, hunting for souvenirs, and visiting cafes.

Strewn throughout the city, these remnants of the ancient Roman city feature an amphitheater, several temples, churches, and a gate.

Erected in 1913, this complex served as a concentration and transition camp during WWII, and now houses a small museum about the period.

Rich with fascinating history, architectural diversity, great beaches, and a superb atmosphere, this city is a must for any traveler.

Trace the old city walls, visit the abundant market, or simply roam the streets of this center, full of fine buildings and lively cafes.

Iconic of the city and one of Croatia's most famous churches, this massive 9C pre-Romanesque gem boasts superb acoustics.

A remarkable 11C church adjacent to a monastery, featuring an exhibit of gold and silver artifacts and boasting a fascinating history.

Although near the city's center, feel like you've left civilization far behind at this relaxing rocky Croatian beach.

Croatia's largest national park is famous for its 16 lakes and an extremely diverse collection of flora and fauna.

This gorgeous bay is recognized as a nature preserve for its towering cliffs, diverse marine life, and breathtaking beauty.

With parts of the wall and four city gates still intact, the cit's former fortification system is symbolic of Zadar's history.

Dalmatia's largest church is this enormous Romanesque cathedral, dating to the 5C and featuring elegant interior.

If you wish to glimpse the true Croatia, head to the market, full of fresh local produce, including olive oil, fruits, herbs, and cheeses.

The Romanesque 12C church features nice frescoes, interesting architectural elements, and a peaceful atmosphere.

Dating as far back as the 1C, this ancient city features an ancient Roman villa, a 5C basilica, and the medieval Church of St. Martin.

Offering a unique experience, the cave is almost untouched by humanity, featuring a wealth of marvelous stalactites and stalagmites.

Dating to the 1C BC, this Roman Forum is the largest in Croatia. Wander among the ruins that bring to life this former civic center.

An enormous musical instrument lining the beach, turning the sea waves into a hypnotic melody. A must if you are visiting Zadar.

Dalmatia's oldest Gothic church dates to the 13C, and while it and the adjoining monastery are simply arranged, they're full of history.

Relax in a cafe and enjoy this bustling city square, lined with historic buildings, some of which date to the 15C.

Explore the narrow streets, the quaint courtyards, and the easy way of life in this lovely town in the south-west of Krk Island.

Known far and wide for its beauty, the natural cove resembles a fjord and reveals a WWII German shipwreck just below the surface.

With its dramatic scenery, a wealth of historic sites, quaint streets, and marvelous beaches, this vibrant city is a superb destination.

Stroll through the city center, rich in history and cultural relics, and enjoy the many landmarks dotting the ancient streets.

Trace the city's medieval fortifications in their circuit around the Old Town, enjoying incredible views and nearby landmarks.

Perched on a cliff jutting into the Adriatic Sea, this beautiful 11C stronghold serves as a theater during the annual Dubrovnik Festival.

Great for people-watching, this 15C ornate fountain once supplied water to the entire city and now serves a nice piece of local history.

Famed for its delicious oysters, this village features 15C fortifications that can be explored and boasts a lively small-town ambiance.

Hemmed with notable historic and cultural landmarks, including churches and palaces, this lively square is buzzing with energy.

The Renaissance palace houses a museum of historic and ethnographic artifacts, including a notable collection of coins and furnishing.

A bustling marketplace where you can buy fresh seasonal produce, nice souvenirs, and authentic local goods.

Hosting a 15C Gothic statue, this 18C Baroque church also features rich ornamentation and beautiful stained-glass windows.

Chilling to the bone, this exhibit displays photographs of the horrors of war and its victims, from Yugoslavia and other countries.

A 12C cathedral retaining elements of its 17C Baroque reconstruction, this church boasts a treasury rich with religious artifacts.

These gates boast fine 16C Renaissance architecture, and once served as a part of the city's more extensive fortifications.

Remarkable for its Renaissance and Romanesque architecture, the 14C monastery also hosts the world's oldest operating pharmacy.

The biggest city in the region, with an impressive historic center, good food, beaches, and vibrant nightlife.

Roam through the winding narrow streets of this wonderful historic center, taking in the ambiance and enjoying the medieval scenery.

Serving as an important Catholic pilgrimage destination, this 12C Romanesque cathedral features fine decorations and a museum.

This 12C castle is a medieval gem, boasting a moat and most of its original construction in a well-preserved state.

Dating to the 13C, this city's chief cathedral features stately Romanesque architecture and fine decorative details.

Located on a small hill, this uniquely constructed fortress dates to the 13C and affords lovely views of the surrounding area.

Abandoned in the 1980s due to natural disasters, this ancient town dates to the 6C BC and retains a unique almost-biblical scenery.

A most striking town, Matera seems to hail straight from the middle ages, rich in churches, fine buildings, and history.

Situated on the beautiful Gargano Peninsula, this national park offers its visitors cliffs, caves, superb views, hiking, or cycling.

Explore the lush expanses of this national park, rife with natural attractions, archaeological sites, and breathtaking scenery.

Famed for its traditional and somewhat peculiar trulli buildings, this historic little town is a national cultural monument.