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Amsterdam, Netherlands - Madrid, Spain 12 day trip

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12 days

About Amsterdam

Amsterdam, the capital city of the Netherlands, boasts a captivating history that dates back to its 12th century beginnings as a modest fishing village. Over time, the city flourished into a bustling commercial center, and, by the 17th century, played a pivotal role in global trade. The establishment of the Dutch East India Company during the colonial era further fueled periods of prosperity, cultural blossoming, and architectural advancement. The city's charm has remained as vibrant as ever, offering modern-day tourists a dynamic and multicultural hub in a wonderful atmosphere, surrounded by a unique, impressive architectural maze.

The old city of Amsterdam, often referred to as the "Venice of the North," is a testament to its immense cultural heritage. Built along the banks of its iconic canals, the old city is home to rich cultural heritage full of artistic masterpieces. Renowned museums in the museum district, situated on the Singelgracht canal, showcase the best works of Dutch painters like Johannes Vermeer, Rembrandt van Rijn, Vincent van Gogh, Hieronymus Bosch, Peter Paul Rubens, and other luminaries of the art world. Amsterdam is known as one of the friendliest cities for cyclists, with cycling deeply ingrained in the local culture. Embrace the city's spirit by renting a bike and joining the vibrant atmosphere as you pedal along the bike paths, gaining a unique perspective on the picturesque canals, charming atria, and stunning buildings. When it comes to culinary delights, Amsterdam offers a diverse array of experiences. Savor the local delicacies and don't miss out on stroopwafels (caramel-filled waffles), bitterballen (meatballs), pannenkoeken (pancakes), and the delectable Gouda or Edam cheeses. The bustling food markets like Albert Cuyp and Foodhallen are a treat, serving up an enticing array of local and international dishes. Pair your meal with a refreshing local beer or indulge in the distinctive flavor of Jenever, the local gin, for a truly immersive culinary experience. Amsterdam is home to a wealth of attractions- here are just a few to get you started: The Floating Flower Market, famously known as Bloemenmarkt, is a local gem. Throughout the city's history, flower merchants used to ply their trade from boats navigating the canals. As the 19th century progressed, trade flourished on floating rafts anchored in the Singelgracht canal. Today, it stands as the only floating flower market in the world, offering a stunning array of the finest blooms and flower seeds from the Netherlands. During the spring season, the market comes alive with a kaleidoscope of colorful tulips, making it a must-visit destination for flower enthusiasts. The Anne Frank House is where Anne and her family hid during the horrors of World War II. The house has been converted into a museum that offers a deeply moving experience, showing where the family lived in a concealed space in her father’s office for over two years, evading the Nazi persecution that targeted the Jewish community in Amsterdam. Tragically, in 1944, they were discovered and sent to the Bergen-Belsen extermination camp, where Anne met her untimely and cruel end. Yet, her diary survived, and is a chilling testament that touches the hearts of millions of readers worldwide, serving as a poignant reminder of the vital significance of empathy and compassion. Begijnhof, a historical complex dating back to the early 14th century, was created as a religious community for women embracing a monastic way of life, dedicated to prayer and acts of kindness. Originally located outside the city walls, it was eventually relocated to its present position in the heart of the city center. Encircled by captivating historic buildings, the enclave boasts several remarkably well preserved wooden houses—a rare sight in Amsterdam, given the city's tumultuous history of fires. Leidseplein and Rembrandtplein are two squares that are famous for their vibrant nightlife, attracting visitors with an array of bars, clubs, live music venues, and entertainment options. In Rembrandt Square there is a monument to the painter’s memory with statues depicting characters from his well-known painting, "The Night Watch." Leidseplein is also home to the casino and the National Theatre. The Eye Film Museum is the Dutch national museum dedicated to photography. Situated along the city's waterfront, the building alone is an attraction with its distinctive and striking architecture! The museum contains a rich collection of films, photographs, posters, as well as other memorabilia related to cinema, and it features various exhibitions that celebrate the history, development, and meaning of filmmaking in the Netherlands and abroad. On the top floor of the museum, there is a panoramic balcony with an amazing view of the city and the waterfront. Amsterdam's rich history, captivating cultural heritage, picturesque canals, and vibrant atmosphere make it a popular and unforgettable tourist destination!

Amsterdam

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Numa Amsterdam Docklands

★ ★ ★ ★

Sights on the way 523.99 km | 5 hrs 21 mins

About Paris

Stunning, magnificent Paris… here are just a few of the names used to describe the city: "The City of Lights", "The City of Love", "The City of Bridges", and "The City of Fashion." 

The special atmosphere in Paris is influenced not only by its vibrancy, places of entertainment, restaurants and cafes, theaters and cinemas, museums and historical sites, fashion houses and shops, but, first and foremost, by the architectural planning of the city which was implemented about 150 years ago and completely changed the face of the city. In the second half of the 19th century, France was ruled by Napoleon III, the nephew of Napoleon Bonaparte. During his reign, he, together with his emissary, Baron Haussmann, transformed the overcrowded and neglected medieval Paris into a modern, beautiful city. Their massive urban renewal planning included wide, long boulevards connected by spacious squares, with each boulevard wide enough for a 6-horse chariot to maneuver easily. They built large public parks, theaters, opera houses, and public transportation lines, including the first Metro, which was inaugurated in 1900. They also installed underground sewage and water systems. The Place de l’Etoile (Star Square) is one the most famous squares in Paris. It surrounds the Arc de Triomphe, which was built during the time of Napoleon Bonaparte, and its gates include national symbols as well as the names of more than 500 officers who fought in the ranks of Napoleon's army. Beneath the Arc de Triomphe is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Following the death of Charles de Gaulle, the square was renamed Place Charles de Gaulle. Concord Square is another of Paris’ most famous squares, and, at its center, there is an Egyptian obelisk. This was the location of the guillotine during the French Revolution. As the excavations for the city’s Metro were taking place, a new raw material was discovered - hard, cream-colored limestone. Baron Haussmann gave instructions that houses were to be built exclusively from this limestone, and the facades of the houses were to be uniform in style. As a result, the streets and boulevards in Paris have a special character - cream-colored stone with black slate roofs, and elaborate iron forges on the balconies. The city’s architecture fits in well with its huge range of attractions. Be sure to notice the decorations at the entrance to the Metro stations. At the beginning of the 20th century, artist Hector Guimard designed these entrances in the Art Nouveau style that dominated Europe at the time. The River Seine, which flows through the city and into the English Channel, has been the lifeblood of the city since Roman times. There are many bridges that cross the Seine, connecting its right bank to its left bank. Paris is surrounded by a ring road, known as the Boulevard Peripherique, which is almost 20 miles long and marks the city’s boundaries. The cities outside the ring road are not part of the Paris municipality but are part of a huge metropolis that is approximately six times the population of Paris itself with 2.2 million inhabitants. Because of the traffic congestion in Paris, it is best to visit the city by train or Metro rather than by a private car. The Metro lines are efficient and easy to navigate, including to the nearby international airports – Orly and Charles de Gaulle. Paris is divided into 20 districts (arrondissements) that are arranged in a clockwise spiral starting from the center of the city. The first district is the heart of Paris, and it includes the Louvre Museum and the island: "Ile de la Cité," home to the Gothic Notre Dame Cathedral. A fire broke out in the cathedral in 2019, and it is still undergoing renovations. Ile de la Cite is also home to the "Sainte- Chapelle", a renowned church with magnificent stained glass windows. Paris, also known as, "the City of Art," has a rich heritage of culture and art. The Louvre, the most famous museum in Paris, was founded over 200 years ago in what had formerly served as a palace. While the Mona Lisa, gifted to King Francois I by its painter, Leonardo da Vinci, at the beginning of the 16th century is one of the museum’s main highlights, the museum is home to many extraordinary collections of art of all types and includes magnificent gardens, as well. Other outstanding museums in Paris include the Musee d'Orsay, the Picasso Museum, the Musee de la Orangerie, and the Pompidou Center. Wandering through Paris, many visitors are inspired by the city’s romantic atmosphere – its parks, riverside promenades, the sidewalk cafes, and the many stores displaying beautiful clothing and objects- from the world’s most luxurious brands to more affordable options. As darkness falls, the city’s buildings and boulevards become illuminated, giving off a special aura. Be sure to see the daily light show at the Eiffel Tower. The Eiffel Tower has been a Paris icon since it was erected in preparation for the 1889 Paris World’s Fair celebrating 100 years since the French Revolution. Within 10 minutes of dusk, the tower shimmers with golden lights and beacons. The flashing hours vary according to the seasons, and you can check the current hours on the tower’s website, One simply cannot describe Paris without discussing its cuisine! French cuisine is, of course, renowned, and Paris offers exceptional culinary experiences. From Michelin-starred restaurants to charming cafes and patisseries, you can indulge in some of the most delicious dishes, pastries, wines, and cheeses. If you are a foodie, do not miss the market tours – they are unforgettable! For good reason, Paris – the city of art, history, culture, lights, fashion, and cuisine – has been and continues to be one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations!

Paris

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Victoria Palace Hotel

★ ★ ★ ★

Sights on the way 1036.99 km | 10 hrs 10 mins

About Barcelona

This lively, exciting metropolis, set on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, is renowned for its exceptional architecture, rich cultural heritage, delicious cuisine, stunning beaches, and fascinating history. It is said that a secret of Barcelona's charm lies in the fact that its tourist sites are an integral part of its residents’ daily life.

Barcelona is not only the capital city of the autonomous community of Catalonia and the second largest city in Spain, but a leading international city, having major influence on global commerce, education, entertainment, media, fashion, science, and the arts. It is an important cultural center, blending modernity and tradition. The city’s most famous landmarks include the architectural works of Antoni Gaudi and Lluis Domenech i Montaner, which have been designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The center of the city and its heart is Placa de Catalunya, a charming square with statues and fountains, shops and boutiques, cafes and restaurants. La Rambla, a bustling boulevard that connects Placa de Catalunya to the ocean, extends from the square. Also extending from the square is one of the city’s most prestigious boulevards, the Passeig de Gracie, where two of Gaudi’s iconic houses are located, the Casa Batllo and the Casa Mila- also known as La Padrera. One of Barcelona’s main highlights is the Church of the Holy Family - La Sagrada Familia – which was designed by Antonio Gaudi and to which he devoted much of his life. The church, which began construction in 1882 and is still not finished, is one of the city's most exciting and awe-inspiring sites. Not far from the church, at the end of Gaudi Avenue, is the Sant Pau Hospital, one of Lluis Domenech I Montaner’s most important architectural works. It is a large complex in which the buildings fit together harmoniously and are surrounded by magnificent gardens. The city’s Gothic Quarter, which dates back to the Middle Ages, is considered the historic heart of the city, and there are numerous city landmarks located within its narrow streets. The Sinagoga Major de Barcelona, which was the main synagogue in the Jewish neighborhood until the expulsion of the Jews in 1492, still remains, as does the 14th-15th century Barcelona Cathedral, an impressive Gothic cathedral and the seat of the Archbishop of Barcelona, Catalonia. The historic palace, Palau de la Generalitat, is also found here and continues to function as the seat of the Government of Catalonia and the Presidency of the Generalitat. The 14th century Ajuntament City Hall building is another landmark in the Quarter. The Picasso Museum is housed in one of the Gothic Quarter’s elegant mansions, and the Palau de la Musica Catalana is a magnificent concert hall designed in Catalan modernista style by Lluis Domenech I Montaner in the early 20th century. There is a mountain overlooking the city known as Montjuic, the Jewish Mountain, a name derived from the medieval Jewish cemetery that is found there. Situated on the mountain is the National Palace, an enormous Italian-style building built in 1929, which today houses the National Art Museum of Catalonia as well as the Olympic Stadium and the Pueblo Espanyol tourist complex. Also located here is the Joan Miro Museum, a museum of modern art dedicated to the famous Catalan artist who initiated its establishment of the museum and donated many of her works. Just beneath Monjuic, you’ll find Placa de Espana, Barcelona’s largest square. The square had once been used as an entrance gate to the museum and today is a center for fairs and exhibits. The Font Magica provides fun entertainment in the evening as the illuminated fountain shoots jets of water, which change shape and color, 164 feet high – all accompanied by great music. Barcelona is also home to some outstanding parks. In the center of the city is the Parc De La Ciutadella, a green oasis with a large central fountain, statues, and an artificial lake with row boats. On the park’s grounds you’ll also find the zoo, the Catalan Parliament building which today houses the Modern Art Museum, the Museum of Natural Sciences, and the Cascada, a large triumphal arch. Park Guell, located in the García district atop a hill, is one of the city's most intriguing sites and a unique example of creative environmental design. Originally intended as a private residential area with 60 single-family homes, the project was unsuccessful, and it became municipal property in 1923. Though not complete, it is one of Antonio Gaudi's best-known and most imaginative works. The buildings are coated with colorful ceramic fragments whose combination throughout the garden creates a mosaic of shapes. Along the beautiful stairway at the entrance gate, you’ll see one of the park’s most famous features: the huge, mythological dragon– or salamander. At the top of the stairs is La Placa, a square with a colorful, rolling bench covered with ceramic fragments and spectacular views of the city. Tibidabo is the highest hill in the Serra de Collserola, and, at its peak, is the Sagrat Cor Church. Adjacent to it is the Tibidabo Amusement Park, a historic theme park with modern attractions, events, shows, and panoramic views. Camp Nou is the largest soccer stadium in Europe and the home field of FC Barcelona. It includes a museum and a visitor’s center. Markets are another important feature of life in Barcelona and a great place to feel the city’s vibe. The 13th century Boqueria Market, located off the famous Rambla and a popular tourist destination, is filled with the sites, smells, and sounds of a bustling city market. In addition to fresh, delicious produce, you’ll find fresh fish, cheeses, juices, Catalan sausages, and other local delicacies – as well as numerous bars and restaurants. The San Antonio Market located in the Eixampla area is one of the largest in Barcelona, combining stalls, restaurants, and bars alongside clothes, books, and stamps for collectors. The Encants flea market is one of the oldest in Europe, dating back to the 13th century, and a place to find diverse and unique art, crafts, gifts, fashion, and more. Not far from Catalonia Square is El Nacional, a charming restaurant complex where you’ll find many traditional dishes from the Iberian Peninsula. Established in 1870 as a theater, the building served other purposes before undergoing a massive renovation and opening in 2013 as a luxurious and well-designed entertainment complex in the heart of the city. And there’s more – Barcelona is also home to shopping centers, an extensive and delectable restaurant scene, and a vibrant night life. To sum up, Barcelona – an innovative, cosmopolitan city with a Mediterranean flair- shouldn’t be missed!

Barcelona

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Hotel Regina Barcelona

★ ★ ★ ★

Sights on the way 645.45 km | 8 hrs 6 mins

About Madrid

Madrid, the capital of Spain and its largest city, is the seat of the government of Spain and the residence of the Spanish monarch. In short, Madrid is the political, economic, and cultural center of Spain. 

This city which never sleeps was built in the 16th century when Philip II, who disliked the capital Valladolid, decided to turn a remote, ancient village in Castile into a capital. Lying at the foot of the Sierra de Guadarrama mountain range, the Monzanares River flows through the city. Madrid is home to impressive architecture, leading international art museums, green parks, phenomenal food, and a lively nightlife. The Royal Palace Palacio Real serves as the official seat of the King of Spain. This huge palace, one of the largest Italian Baroque style palaces in Europe, is located on a spectacular cliff overlooking the Monzanares River. The palace contains thousands of art treasures, including paintings and wall murals, porcelain objects, musical instruments, and medieval weapons. There are breathtaking gardens surrounding the palace -the Sabatini Gardens to the north and the Campo del Moro Gardens at the foot of the hill on which the palace is located. Madrid’s large, Neo-Gothic style Santa Maria de la Almudena Cathedral is among the newest cathedrals in Europe, inaugurated in 1993 after over 100 years of construction. Madrid is a city with three famous museums. The Prado El, which began to be constructed in the 18th century, has a neo-classical façade and was intended to be a vast center for nature and science studies. It later became a museum with tens of thousands of works of art from the royal palaces of Spain. It has a huge collection of Spanish paintings, including works by Velázquez, Goya and El Greco; Italian paintings by foremost painters such as Botticelli, Veronese, Caravaggio; and Flemish masterpieces by Hieronymus Bosch, Bruegel, Rubens, Rembrandt, and Van Dyck. The Reina Sofia Museum is housed in a building that was used as a hospital until the 18th century. It is home to an impressive collection of 20th century works, including cubism, surrealism, and realism, and a permanent collection with works by Salvador Dali, Juan Miro, and Pablo Picasso. The highlight of the museum is Picasso's famous masterpiece from 1937, "Guernica.” Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum is the third famous museum in Madrid. It began in 1920 as an exhibit of the private collection of Baron Heinrich Thyssen- Bornemisza, who was a well-known collector. It is considered to be one of the most impressive private collections in the world. The museum was sold to Spain and opened to the public in 1992. Much of Madrid’s charm lies in its many public squares, each with its own character and beautiful parks and gardens. The Puerta del Sol (Gate of the Sun) square is a focal point of the city. It was built as a half moon decorated with two fountains and the equestrian statue of Carlos III (who built most of the squares in the city). The Bear and Strawberry Tree statues are attractions, as well, and have become symbols of the city. Today, the square’s central building is used by the Autonomous Community of Madrid. The square is known for its New Year’s Eve tradition of eating twelve grapes, one for each chime at midnight. Plaza Mayor (Town Square) is in the heart of the old city. Originally used in the 15th century as the town market, it was established in the 17th century as a town square, and the 19th century equestrian sculpture of Philip III stands in the center. There are ten entrances to the square and nine gates. Plaza Mayor has historically been the scene of many events, including bullfights and soccer games, and today is the venue for the annual Christmas market. The Casa de la Panaderia, a municipal and cultural building on the north side of the plaza, has a beautiful façade and angular towers to its sides. Plaza Mayor is a thriving center of Madrid life both day and night with its cafes, restaurants, and bars. Plaza Oriente is built in the shape of a crescent with an impressive facade of the Royal Palace as its base. It is surrounded by flower beds, beautiful shrubbery, and statues of the kings of Spain. In the center, above an imposing fountain surrounded by lions, is the equestrian statue of Philip IV. In the rectangular Plaza Espania, a spacious square surrounded by trees, there is a large stone monument honoring one of Spain's greatest writers, Miguel Cervantes, and the two iconic characters, Don Quixote and Sancho Panza. The 18th century Plaza de Cibeles is one of the main squares in the city and is considered to be one of its most important symbols. The fountain in the square depicts the goddess Cybele sitting in a chariot driven by two lions. At one end of the square is the Madrid City Hall building. The Parquet del Buen Retiro is the green lung of Madrid. It was established as a royal garden with a summer palace, and its garden paths, fountains, lake, playgrounds, and cafes attract many visitors. The Casa de Campo, Madrid’s largest public park, was created in the 16th century for the royal family and nobility and became a public park in 1931. It is a popular urban park and destination for both visitors and locals, especially on the weekends. The park contains lakes as well as an amusement park and a large zoo. Madrid is also a great shopping destination with its many colorful markets. The San Miguel Market is one of the most famous in the city with a wide variety of food, wine, and tapas stalls. San Ildefonso market is a food market, which, at dark, turns into a lively entertainment area with a stunning balcony and comfortable seating. The Platea Market, which used to be a theatre, bustles with restaurants, shops, bars, and bakeries. Anton Martin Market is a food market with cafeterias, restaurants, and even a flamenco school. Last but not least, be sure to visit Calle Gran Via, the busiest thoroughfare in Madrid with cinemas, shopping malls, international chain stores, and banks. If you’re a foodie, Madrid won’t disappoint! It has its own gastronomy as well as culinary specialties from all over Spain. Madrid’s many restaurants and cafes serve the famous bean stews, roast suckling piglet, Galician octopus, and the iconic Paella.

Madrid

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Oriente Palace Apartments

★ ★ ★ ★

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Amsterdam, Netherlands

3 nights

523.99 km | 5 hrs 21 mins

Paris, France

3 nights

1036.99 km | 10 hrs 10 mins

Barcelona, Spain

2 nights

645.45 km | 8 hrs 6 mins

Madrid, Spain

3 nights

Amsterdam, Netherlands - Madrid, Spain 12 day trip

Hotels in Amsterdam- explore rates & availability

Numa Amsterdam Docklands

Hotels in Paris- explore rates & availability

Victoria Palace Hotel

Hotels in Barcelona- explore rates & availability

Hotel Regina Barcelona

Hotels in Madrid- explore rates & availability

Oriente Palace Apartments

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