Highlights
- Discover local cuisine in Venice and Barcelona with local guides
- Embark on epic hikes in both the Pyrenees and the Dolomites
- Enjoy a romantic gondola ride along Venice's Grand Canal
- Relax in the hot springs of Lake Garda and take wine tours
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Barcelona (Spain), Tapas Tour | Barcelona |
| Day 2 | Gaudí Architecture Walk | Barcelona |
| Day 3 | Transfer to the Pyrenees via Montserrat | Pyrenees |
| Day 4 | Hike Tossal de l'Àliga Mountain | Pyrenees |
| Day 5 | Transfer to Sort, Hike to a Pyrenees Viewpoint | Pyrenees |
| Day 6 | Transfer to Arties, Mushroom Foraging | Pyrenees |
| Day 7 | Transfer to Barcelona via Alquézar | Barcelona |
| Day 8 | Fly to Venice (Italy), Food Tour | Venice |
| Day 9 | Best of Venice Tour, Gondola Ride | Venice |
| Day 10 | Transfer to the Dolomites, Trekking Day 1 | Dolomites |
| Day 11 | Dolomites Trekking Day 2 | Dolomites |
| Day 12 | Dolomites Trekking Day 3, Transfer to Lake Garda | Dolomites |
| Day 13 | Desenzano & Sirmione Tour, Optional Hot Springs | Lake Garda |
| Day 14 | Optional Wine Tasting, Transfer to Milan, Depart |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Barcelona (Spain), Tapas Tour
Welcome to Spain! You'll arrive in Barcelona, the capital of the Catalonia region, one of Spain's 17 autonomous communities. This famous city is known for its golden beaches, rich culture, and delicious cuisine. It's the food you'll enjoy first, as upon arrival, you'll transfer to your hotel and meet a guide for a walking tapas tour. The word "tapas" literally translates to "tops," and you can find these small plates (designed to be shared) at bars, bodegas, and tabernas (taverns) throughout the country.
During this three-hour culinary experience, you'll walk around Barcelona's favorite neighborhoods, like the Gothic Quarter, ducking into alleys and popping in at local tapas spots to taste various dishes. As you go, your expert guide will share tips and insider knowledge regarding which dishes to try. At each stop, you'll pair your bites with sips of local wine, beer, or nonalcoholic drinks. Even better, with each plate and glass, your guide will reveal fascinating insights into Barcelona's history and culture.
Day 2: Gaudí Architecture Walk
In the morning, you'll enjoy a guided walking tour of some famous landmarks designed by renowned Catalan architect Antoni Guadí. First, you'll visit La Sagrada Família, a spectacular Roman Catholic church and UNESCO World Heritage Site. During a tour of the interior, you'll learn all about Gaudí and this jaw-dropping masterpiece. Despite first being built in 1882, the church is still technically under construction and was only consecrated in 2010.
Afterward, you'll continue to Park Güell, Barcelona's most famous green space. Located atop Carmel Hill and offering incredible city views, Park Güell is defined by its pretty gardens and Gaudí's artistic elements. Some of the most iconic include the dragon fountain near the entrance and the mosaic-covered "serpent bench." Don't miss the local buskers performing in the park's nooks and crannies.
Later, say goodbye to your guide and take the rest of the afternoon to discover Barcelona on your own. Perhaps stroll down La Rambla, a bustling pedestrian street lined with shops and cafés that passes some of the city's most historic neighborhoods. Near here is La Boqueria, Barcelona's oldest and most famous municipal market. Dating to the 13th century, it's a gastronomic hub filled with fresh produce, food stalls, restaurants, bars, and more. If the weather is pleasant, continue down to Barceloneta, the main urban beach, to do some people-watching along the boardwalk.
Day 3: Transfer to the Pyrenees via Montserrat
Say goodbye to Barcelona and hello to the Pyrenees! You'll be whisked into the mountains that border Spain and France via a private 4WD vehicle (likely a Jeep). On the way, stop for lunch in the region of Montserrat to tour the impressive Monastery of Montserrat and enjoy its commanding mountain views. Founded in the 11th century, it remains in operation, as more than 70 monks call it home.
The journey then continues into the high mountains, where the hiking section of the trip begins. Here, you'll stay at a family-run hotel. Besides being a cozy accommodation, it offers a first glimpse at authentic Pyrenean life.
Day 4: Hike Tossal de l'Àliga Mountain
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Wake up for an early breakfast, which should fortify you for today's half-day hiking excursion. After eating, you'll transfer by vehicle for about 30 minutes to Montcortès, a peaceful lake surrounded by meadows and hills and backed by snowcapped peaks.
From the trailhead, you'll embark on a three-hour hike up to the summit of Tossal de l'Àliga. The trail covers 6 miles (9.5 km) with no shortage of beautiful scenery. It's also a great area for birding, and common species you can spot include herons, egrets, kestrels, and (occasionally) golden eagles.
After returning to the trailhead, you'll have some time to cool off before hopping back in the car for the return trip to your hotel. On the way, you'll stop in the charming town of Baro. Later, you'll have the option to embark on another short hike or continue to the mountain resort of Sant Joan de l'Erm, where you'll overnight.
Day 5: Transfer to Sort, Hike to a Pyrenees Viewpoint
It's another early start as you leave the hotel in the morning and transfer north to the comarca (county) of Pallars Sobira, located in the central Pyrenees. Your driver will turn off at Llesui village, then it's another 25 minutes on dirt tracks up to a trailhead.
Then, along with your guide, you'll embark on a 5.5-mile (9 km) hike on a trail up Montsent de Pallars mountain that takes about five hours to complete. This is another summit hike, and once you reach the top, you'll be standing at 6,168 feet (1,880 m) in altitude. Needless to say, the panoramic views here are incredible.
On the way back down, you'll take a break near the idyllic Mainera Lakes, where you'll stop and enjoy a picnic lunch. Later, at the trailhead, you'll hop back in the car and transfer about 40 minutes to the town of Sort. Here, you'll check into your hotel.
Day 6: Transfer to Arties, Mushroom Foraging
Meet your driver in the morning and head north to the town of Isil. There, you'll turn off onto a dirt road for another 45 minutes of driving deep into the northeast region of the Catalan Pyrenees. Depending on your guide's recommendation, you'll stop for a scenic hike through the forest in this area, which ranges from 9-12 miles (6-8 km). Unlike the mountain hikes of previous days, this is a leisurely excursion at a relaxed pace. You can even stop on the trail to hunt for wild mushrooms.
The trail will take you over pastureland, streams, and meadows to historic Montgarri, a mountain outpost with a population in the single digits. It's famous for its 12th-century sanctuary, and here you'll stop for a barbecue lunch. Later, you'll have the option to hike one of the mountain summits in the area, like Eth Tuc or Tuc de Costarjàs. Each trail covers about 6 miles (10 km) and takes around four hours to complete.
After the hike, you'll return to the Jeep and continue driving into the heart of the Pyrenees. The drive will take you through the scenic Val d'Aran region of northwest Catalonia for about 30 minutes until you reach the picture-postcard town of Arties. Dating back 1,000 years or more, Arties is surrounded by Pyrenees peaks and is famous for its stone houses, cobbled streets, and well-preserved Romanesque church. Upon arrival at your hotel, you can explore Artie's streets on your own.
Day 7: Transfer to Barcelona via Alquézar
It's time to say goodbye to the Pyrenees and head back to Barcelona. Meet your driver in the morning and begin the trip back to the city. If you like, you can stop in Alquézar along the way. This picturesque town is nestled within the Sierra de Guara Natural Park, a region known for its dramatic canyons, rugged landscapes, and pristine rivers. The village itself is perched on a rocky hill overlooking the Vero River, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
The origin of the complex is in an Arab fortification built in the ninth century, though no apparent architectural remains from this period remain. However, Alquézar's historic center is a well-preserved medieval jewel characterized by narrow cobblestone streets, ancient stone buildings, and a maze of alleys. You can see these highlights on a self-guided walking tour. After stretching your legs, continue to Barcelona and check into your hotel.
Day 8: Fly to Venice (Italy), Food Tour
Your driver will pick you up early for the transfer to the airport, where you'll catch a two-hour flight to Venice. Welcome to Italy! This country boasts thousands of years of history, much of it visible on the historic streets of its cities and villages. A perfect example is Venice. It was officially founded in the fifth century in the marshy Venetian Lagoon on the Adriatic Sea. Aptly nicknamed the "City of Water," it draws over a million visitors annually, who come to see its palaces and ride its romantic canals.
Upon arrival, you'll transfer to your hotel. Then, it's time to head out and experience the Venetian wonders for yourself. Today's excursion focuses on food as you'll head off along the canals and narrow backstreets as your local expert guide reveals insight into the city's gastronomic history. Of course, there will be plenty of food along the way. Stop at a local eatery and indulge in cicchetti (the Venetian version of tapas) paired with a refreshing spritz—a classic aperitif born right in Venice.
Then, walk to the Rialto Bridge—one of the four scenic bridges that span the Grand Canal. A short stroll from here brings you to the bustling Rialto Market. Stroll around this lively epicenter of daily Venetian life and culture, tasting local products that help create the city's incomparable cuisine.
Day 9: Best of Venice Tour, Gondola Ride
There's no time to rest as this morning, you'll head out for a three-hour tour to experience the grand highlights of Venice. Meet your guide, venture down alleyways and across piazzas to the Rialto Bridge, and spend some time people-watching. The next stop is Piazzo San Marco (Saint Mark's Square), where you'll soak up the atmosphere and marvel at the Gothic and Renaissance architecture—you might even find yourself serenaded by an outdoor orchestra.
At the plaza, you'll visit the impressive Basilica San Marco. Dating to the 11th century, the exterior is a mix of architectural styles that reflect its ties to the Byzantine Empire. Inside, the basilica is famous for its high altar and shimmering, gold-leaf-covered mosaics depicting religious and historical scenes. Next, you'll visit the adjacent Doge's Palace, home to one of the world's longest-standing governments. Over an hour, you'll see all the best sights, from ceilings frescoed by Tintoretto to Veronese paintings. Then you'll return to your hotel for a break.
Later, you'll enjoy something of a classic—a gondola tour of its romantic canals. It's a leisurely 30-minute ride along Venice's waterways under the power and guidance of a professional gondolier. It may be a popular tourist activity, but gondolas have been used as transport in the City of Water for well over 1,000 years. This elegant and romantic journey will leave you perfectly content as you glide on the water's surface, under Rialto Bridge, passing iconic landmarks that comprise Venice's horizon line.
Day 10: Transfer to the Dolomites, Trekking Day 1
Get an early start as you meet your driver for the four-hour transfer north to Italy's famous Dolomites Mountains for another mountain adventure. You'll meet your driver and transfer north from the city about two hours to the foot of the Ortler Alps and the Val di Rabbi. This valley is the picture of rural beauty, with livestock grazing on green meadows and pristine rivers flowing between snowcapped peaks. Here, you'll meet a guide and begin a half-day hike.
The 5-mile (8 km) route will take you through Stelvio National Park. This unspoiled protected area is renowned for its unspoiled mountain scenery, including towering peaks, glaciers, and pine and spruce forests. You'll hike into these woods, crossing suspension bridges on your way up to the mountain hut, where you'll overnight. On the way, be on the lookout for resident wildlife like deer, horses, and ibexes.
Day 11: Dolomites Trekking Day 2
Day 12: Dolomites Trekking Day 3, Transfer to Lake Garda
In the morning, you'll begin hiking down the mountains on a route with no shortage of natural splendor. This relatively easy 3.7-mile (6 km) trail is lined with plenty of colorful flora, like rhododendrons, as well as native animals. It also leads to the Pra di Saent, a beautiful alpine meadow that's the gateway to the region's famous waterfalls.
After crossing some bridges, you'll arrive at the Saent Falls, the most majestic waterfall system of all. The impressive cascades here can reach heights of about 98 feet (30 m). After marveling at the falls and snapping photos, you'll continue hiking to the end of the trail and meet a car for the transfer to Italy's Lombardy region and Lake Garda, the country's largest lake.
Day 13: Desenzano & Sirmione Tour, Optional Hot Springs
The best way to experience the romantic villages around Lake Garda is on a walking/boat tour. And that's exactly what you'll do on today's full-day excursion. In the morning, you'll meet your guide in the town of Desenzano del Garda (known simply as Desenzano), located on the southwestern shore of the lake. Its origins date to Roman times, and you'll even get to visit a Roman Villa with well-preserved and intricate floor mosaics. Other highlights include stops at the colorful Venetian harbor and lakefront promenade. Don't miss the bustling outdoor market if you're here on a Tuesday.
Then, hop on a boat for a scenic ride to Sirmione. This unique town occupies a narrow peninsula that juts up from the south end of the lake. While here, you'll tour the well-preserved historic center, known for its medieval and Renaissance architecture, narrow cobblestone streets, and charming squares. The most famous of all is Scaliger Castle. This 13th-century fortress dominates the entrance to town, and from its ramparts, you'll be treated to incredible views of the lake and mountains.
After the boat tour, you can spend the rest of the day relaxing. There are world-class spas all around the lake that take advantage of the area's thermal springs, which have attracted visitors since Roman times. The most famous is right in Sirmione. The sulfurous baths here hover around 93°-96°F (34°-36°C) and offer various therapeutic benefits, from alleviating arthritis and respiratory conditions to soothing skin conditions and reducing stress. Another fine option is the Villa dei Cedri Spa, set amid a beautifully landscaped garden with centuries-old cedar trees, lush greenery, and scenic pathways.
Day 14: Optional Wine Tasting, Transfer to Milan, Depart
No need to hurry off just yet. This morning, you'll have the option to enjoy another memorable wine tasting. Leave Lake Garda with your driver and visit the surrounding Valpolicella region, known as the "Land of Red Wines." On this fun excursion, you'll visit two wine estates to taste a few of the region's celebrated reds, like Amarone and Valpolicella Classico. A real treat is a sampling of Recioto, a dessert wine made from dried grapes, not unlike raisins, resulting in a deeply rich and sweet flavor profile.
Afterward, you'll head back toward Lake Garda and continue west to Milan. Your driver will drop you off at the international airport there, where you'll catch your flight home. See you soon!
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