Coastal Spain & Southern Italy Trip: Barcelona, the Costa Brava, Sicily & the Amalfi Coast - 14 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Barcelona (Spain), Guided Tapas Walking Tour

Welcome to Spain! Your trip begins in Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia, a region in Spain's northeast, famous for its rich history, distinct architecture, and fabulous Catalan cuisine. Upon arrival at the airport, a driver will pick you up and take you to your downtown hotel. Settle in, and when you're ready, experience the city through the lens of a local with a walking tapas tour.

Meet your expert guide and spend the next three hours strolling Barcelona's Gothic Quarter, ducking into alleys filled with foodie hotspots, and exploring the lesser-known tapas spots favored by locals. Feast on morsels such as esqueixada (a cod, onion, and tomato salad) and bomba Barceloneta (meat and potato croquettes topped with aioli), washed down with the local wine or beer while your guide shares tales of the city's fascinating history and culture. 

Day 2: Tour the Gaudí Masterpieces of La Sagrada Família & Park Güell

After breakfast, discover the city's landmarks designed by the renowned architect Antoni Gaudí. First up is the stunning La Sagrada Família, a dramatic Roman Catholic cathedral featuring an impressive mix of Gothic, Catalan-Modernism, and Art Nouveau architectural styles. Venture inside and marvel at the astonishing sky-high ceiling and the light pouring through the stained-glass windows while your guide shares anecdotes of the cathedral's history. 

Afterward, continue to the UNESCO-listed Park Güell, a whimsical green space perched on a hill featuring manicured gardens, imaginative statues, and enchanting mosaic-covered stairways and benches in Gaudí's signature style. Stroll the walkways and take in the panoramic views over the city, then wander over to the two pavilions, a great spot to soak up the atmosphere and listen to the live music. Part ways with your guide and, after a laid-back lunch, continue exploring under your own steam with a wander down La Rambla, a pedestrian stretch filled with shops and cafés. 

Day 3: Transfer to the Costa Brava, Free Afternoon to Explore

Today, you'll swap Barcelona's vibrant city vibe for the dramatic cliffs and sandy beaches of the Costa Brava: a 133-mile (214 km) stretch of Mediterranean coastline that runs from the town of Blanes to the French border. Your driver will take you on the 1.5-hour journey north of Barcelona to your accommodation, with plenty of picturesque towns en route and beautiful spots where you can linger over a scenic lunch.

In the afternoon, venture inland to explore some of the region's serene villages, including the hilltop town and castle of Begur and the artsy, whitewashed town of Cadaqués. The coastal fishing villages of Calella de Palafrugell and Llafranc are perfect for a laid-back aperitif and a plate of fresh seafood while you relax and enjoy the leisurely pace of Spanish life. 

Day 4: Coastal Hike, Kayaking & Lagoon Dipping in the Costa Brava

Spend today getting a feel for the Costa Brava's fauna, flora, rocky coves, and inviting waters with a full-day tour of the lovely Sant Feliu de Guíxols area. Start with a short hike along the coastal path and arrive at the beach in Sant Pol de S'Agaró, a long sandy crescent opening into a natural bay. It's a well-known spot for kayaking, with plenty of secluded caves, crystal-clear cobalt waters, and marine life.

After a brief introduction, paddle out with your guide and spend a couple of hours kayaking along the coast against overhanging sandstone cliffs and the rocky landscape dotted with umbrella pines. If the sea is just too tempting, dive in for a mid-way snorkel or swim before returning to S'Agaro Beach. Feast on fresh seafood and authentic paella for lunch, and spend the rest of the afternoon enjoying a lazy beach day before returning to your accommodation. 

Day 5: Fly to Palermo (Italy), Street Food Experience

It's the next leg of your European adventure this morning as you say adiós to Spain, transfer back to Barcelona, and catch a three-hour flight to Sicily, an island at the bottom of Italy's "boot." Your destination is Palermo, Sicily's regional capital, known for its wonderful climate, rich blend of ancient history, and famous street food. Settle in after your flight, and when you're ready, head out to explore the city's legendary cuisine with a foodie tour through the back streets.

Your local guide will steer you through the maze of the city's riotous Vucciria and Capo markets, where you'll savor delicacies such as panelle (chickpea fritters), pani câ meusa (sesame-flavored bread stuffed with fried veal and spleen), and arancini (deep-fried balls of rice stuffed with meat, vegetables, and cheese). Refresh with a glass of local Sicilian wine or a soft drink before ending the tour with delicious cannoli (deep-fried pastries filled with sweet ricotta cheese), gelato, or a refreshing granita (a semi-frozen treat made with fruit, sugar, and water). 

Day 6: Guided Tour of Palermo, Visit Monreale 

Start the day with a relaxed breakfast of caffè and pastries before meeting your guide for a private tour of the Sicilian capital. Alongside the 12th-century Duomo (Palermo's cathedral), you'll see sights including the Palazzo Reale and Quattro Canti (officially known as Piazza Vigliena), all wonderful examples of the city's evocative Arab-Norman architecture. Stop at Capo Market to pick up lunch—try the cazalli (pan-fried croquettes) and wander over to Piazza Marina, a great spot to relax with a cool drink and admire the views.

The afternoon is yours to relax in Palermo or head out on a tour. The nearby town of Monreale is home to the famous Cattedrale di Monreale, a 12th-century UNESCO Heritage Site considered the greatest example of Norman architecture in the world. Explore the dazzling interior, covered entirely in gold mosaics featuring scenes from the Old and New Testaments and the cathedral's ornate cloisters. Afterward, stroll through the Villa di Belvedere, a gorgeous public garden, and admire the view over the valley laden with citrus trees. Return to Palermo in the evening, in time for dinner.

Day 8: Drive to Taormina via Mount Vesuvius, Free Afternoon to Explore

It's an early start this morning as you leave Cefalù and drive three hours east to Taormina, a sophisticated and popular town on the Ionian Sea. First, though, is a detour inland to Europe's largest active volcano, Mount Etna. Make your way to the Rifugio Sapienza, the southern access point for the volcano, where you'll meet your guide and ride the cable car up 9,5000 feet (2,900 m) to Torre del Filosofo. Spend a couple of hours hiking around the crater and pause to admire the vistas of solidified lava flows, fumaroles, and views that stretch out to the Mediterranean. 

Afterward, hop back in your car; Taormina is a 1.5-hour drive away. Settle in and head to the Piazza IX Aprile, the town's elegant main square. It's the perfect spot to get your bearings and sip a spritz while the sun sets over the Bay of Naxos. Dine at one of the popular trattorias on nearby Corso Umberto. You'll find plenty of fresh fish here and some excellent pizzerias. 

Day 9: Drive to Catania, Guided City Tour, Private Cooking Class 

Founded by Chalcidian Greeks in the eighth century, Catania, located on Sicily's east coast toward the base of Mount Etna, has a history filled with culture, art, and politics. Drop off your rental car and discover all this and more with a guided tour of the city. Over a couple of hours, you'll visit, among others, the Piazza Duomo, Castello Ursino, and the ancient Teatro Greco. Finish at the Piazza Università, the town's lively main square, filled with plenty of Baroque architecture and a great place to soak up the atmosphere, sip coffee, and people-watch. 

In the afternoon, consider sharpening your Sicilian cooking skills with a lesson dedicated to mastering regional classics such as pasta alla Norma, salt-baked seabass, and pasta with pistachio pesto and shrimp. Under the guidance of an experienced local cook, you'll be shown techniques passed down through generations and learn plenty of authentic tips to help recreate your culinary creations when you return home. Dishes ready, you'll enjoy a convivial dinner with your host and chef alongside a selection of red and white Sicilian wines. 

Day 10: Day Trip to Syracuse, Ortigia & Noto

An hour's drive south of Catania lies Syracuse, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its ancient Greek history, ornate Baroque architecture, and as the birthplace of mathematician Archimedes. After a private transfer from your hotel, spend the morning discovering the ruins at the Neapolis Archaeological Park and continue to Ortiga, Syracuse's historical heart connected to the city by three bridges. Visit tucked-away gems such as the 19th century Palazzo Impellizzeri, the Temple of Apollo in Piazza Pancali, or go underground to the San Giovanni Crypt and Catacombs. 

Break for lunch, then hop back in the car for a 45-minute drive to Noto, a town that seals Sicily's well-earned reputation for the quality of its Baroque architecture. Spend a couple of hours exploring this city, akin to an open-air museum, and stroll Corso Vittorio Emanuele, Noto's main drag, filled with ornamented buildings, restaurants, and boutiques. Walk beneath the Porta Reale (Royal Gate) and continue to the Chiesa di Santa Chiara before finishing at Noto Cathedral, the region's Baroque limestone jewel. 

Day 11: Fly to Naples, Transfer to the Amalfi Coast, Sunset Cruise Along the Bay

This morning, you'll transfer to Catania's airport and board a short one-hour flight to Naples, in Italy's south. Your destination is the Amalfi Coast, known for its pastel-hued houses perched along dramatic cliffs, scented lemon groves, bougainvillea-clad cobblestone streets, and terraced vineyards. 

Settle into your hotel, and as the sun dips, experience the peninsula's renowned beauty on a cruise around the coastline. Departing from either Positano or Sorrento, you'll set sail on the calm waters of the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea. With a glass of Prosecco or spritz in hand, sit back and relax as you cruise past the picturesque fishing villages whose twinkling lights start to appear as the sun gently sets over the horizon. You'll return to the shore in time for dinner at a local restaurant, where you can feast on local Sorrentine specialties.

Day 12: Amalfi Coast Tour by Vespa

Just south of the Gulf of Naples lies the Sorrentine Peninsula, featuring 24 miles (40 km) of Italy's famed Amalfi Coast. With a history dating back to ancient Rome, the Empire's most wealthy and powerful citizens were among the first to arrive here and build their seafront villas along this breathtaking stretch. Today, you'll tour this iconic coastline with an exhilarating ride on a Vespa driven by an experienced driver.

Ride along winding roads into Positano, where you'll break for an hour and explore the main pedestrian street that tumbles down from the road at the top and through charming bougainvillea-adorned alleyways. Hop back on the scooter, zip past lemon groves and vineyards, and arrive in Amalfi. You'll have plenty of time to browse the cobbled backstreets and stop for a cool drink before continuing your ride along the coast. Sit back and admire the Mediterranean views, stopping wherever takes your fancy before your guide drops you back at your hotel at the end of the tour. 

Day 13: Day Trip to Capri & Anacapri 

Set sail for the "Isle of Sirens" this morning and head to the port, where you'll board a ferry and cross the cobalt blue waters past the Amalfi Coast to Capri. You'll arrive at the Marina Grande harbor, where the day is yours to explore the island at your leisure. Head first to the quaint village of Anacapri perched toward the top of the island. Here, you'll see the sweeping views of the Gulf of Naples and Mount Vesuvius that prompted Emperor Tiberius to build twelve villas on the isle.

Stroll Piazza Vittoria and stop for a gelato before taking the chairlift from Anacapri to Mount Solaro. At 1,932 feet (589 m) above sea level, it's the island's highest point and offers more astonishing views across the bays and over to the Calabrian mountains. When you're ready, make your way back down and enjoy lunch overlooking the coastline. After a wander around Capri's chic Old Town, don't miss a trip to the Gardens of Augustus. These manicured Mediterranean gardens provide the world-famous shot of the dramatic Faraglioni Rocks below.

Day 14: Transfer to Naples via Pompeii, Depart

It's your last day in Italy, and after breakfast, you have a couple of options. Depending on your departure timings, either head to Naples airport in time to catch your flight or stop off for a tour of Pompeii along the way. See the ancient plazas, villas, and shops frozen in time when volcanic ash and debris flowed from Mount Vesuvius in 79 CE, devastating the city while simultaneously preserving it in its entirety. If the timings allow, you'll have plenty of time to wander the archaeological site before your guide drops you at the airport or station for your onward journey. Safe travels!

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