Photo: Petar Milošević, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Signature place
Colosseum Archaeological Park
Book official timed entry for the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill; start early for lower heat and crowd pressure.
Five weeks through Europe, finishing in Dublin
Seven well-paced bases from Italy to Ireland, with Dublin placed in late July for its warmest usual period.
- Shape
- Day by day, no dates shown
- Party
- 2 adults
- Nights
- 35
Rome5n16°C to 28°CFlorence4n15°C to 27°CVenice4n15°C to 25°CZurich4n13°C to 23°CParis6n15°C to 25°CBarcelona4n21°C to 29°CLisbon3n18°C to 28°CDublin5n12°C to 20°C
In through Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO), out through Dublin Airport (DUB).
This is a south-to-north route designed for a 35-night summer holiday: Italy first, then the Alps, France, Spain and Portugal, before Dublin in the final late-July stretch. Dublin is included during its climatological warmest period, typically July and August, but Irish weather remains variable. Each base has at least three nights and an uncommitted half-day is protected in every stop. All 2027 flights, rail timetables, fares and hotel rates are confirmation_required until released by providers.
Route logic
Arrive in Rome and leave from Dublin to avoid backtracking. Rail links carry the mainland route where practical; flights are used for Barcelona to Lisbon and Lisbon to Dublin.
Dublin timing
Dublin is scheduled for Days 31 to 36, 14/07/2027 to 19/07/2027. Met Éireann climate information identifies July and August as the warmest months on average, though rain, wind and cool evenings are still possible.
Budget position
A$50,000 for two adults is a workable planning envelope for 35 nights in 4 to 5-star hotels if long-haul flights and the highest-demand hotel dates are secured early. The budget below is a planning target, not a quote.
Photo: Petar Milošević, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Chapter 01 · 5 nights · from Day 1
RomeRoma
Start with five nights in a central 4 to 5-star hotel around Campo de' Fiori, Piazza Navona or Monti, subject to final hotel choice. Day 1 is only airport transfer and settling in. Use the full days for major sights, with one half-day left open for a long lunch, shopping or a neighbourhood walk.
- 01
Rome arrival and recovery
Use Leonardo express to Roma Termini, about 32 minutes, then a short taxi or walk if the hotel is near Campo de' Fiori or Piazza Navona. A licensed taxi from the official airport rank is simpler if tired or carrying larger cases.
- 02
Ancient Rome at a measured pace
Book an early timed entry for the Colosseum and Roman Forum through the official Colosseum Archaeological Park channel. Starting early is the best heat and crowd-management choice in mid-June.
Photo: Petar Milošević, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Signature place
Vatican Museums
Use official timed entry for the museums and Sistine Chapel, then keep St Peter's Basilica flexible around security and access arrangements.
Photo: Petar Milošević, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Signature place
Galleria Borghese
A compact, reservation-led gallery that fits well into a single morning before Villa Borghese and the Pincio.
Photo: Petar Milošević, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Signature place
Capitoline Museums
A useful late-afternoon indoor choice after ancient Rome, with Piazza del Campidoglio and Forum views nearby.
Photo: Petar Milošević, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Day 1
Rome arrival and recovery
- afternoonUse Leonardo express to Roma Termini, about 32 minutes, then a short taxi or walk if the hotel is near Campo de' Fiori or Piazza Navona. A licensed taxi from the official airport rank is simpler if tired or carrying larger cases.Map
- afternoonCheck in at Hotel Indigo Rome - St. George, then ask reception to hold luggage if the room is not ready. The hotel is on Via Giulia, well placed for a low-effort first walk.Map
- eveningTake a gentle 10-minute walk to Piazza Navona, then continue to the Pantheon if energy allows. Both are easy first-evening landmarks without committing to timed entry.Map
Arrive at Rome Fiumicino Airport, then use Leonardo express to Roma Termini if the hotel suits it, or the official airport taxi rank for a direct transfer. Settle in only; no fixed tour.
DinnerArmando al Pantheon, Roman, mid-rangesit-down dinner
A long-running Roman kitchen near the Pantheon, practical after an easy arrival walk.
Reserve directly by phone or the restaurant's official booking contact once June 2027 availability is released.
- OrRoscioli Salumeria con Cucina, Roman and Italian, higher. A more splurge-oriented central option with strong produce and wine focus.
- OrPizzeria Ai Marmi, Roman pizza, lower. A straightforward Trastevere pizza option if jet lag calls for a quick, unfussy meal.
Key decision
Train or taxi from Fiumicino
Choose Leonardo express only if the final hotel transfer from Termini is easy. After a long flight, use the official taxi rank for a door-to-door arrival and avoid unsolicited drivers.
Photo: Petar Milošević, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Day 2
Ancient Rome at a measured pace
- morningBook an early timed entry for the Colosseum and Roman Forum through the official Colosseum Archaeological Park channel. Starting early is the best heat and crowd-management choice in mid-June.Map
- morningWalk through the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill after the Colosseum. Allow around 2.5 to 3.5 hours in total and carry water, sun protection and shoes with grip for uneven stone paths.Map
- afternoonHave a slow lunch in Monti, about 10 to 15 minutes on foot from the Forum, then return to the hotel for a rest during the warmest part of the day.Map
- eveningVisit the Capitoline Museums in the late afternoon, around a 10-minute walk from the Forum. It is a good indoor option with views across the Forum from Piazza del Campidoglio.Map
DinnerLa Taverna dei Fori Imperiali, Roman, mid-rangesit-down dinner
Near Monti and the Forum, making it a sensible finish after the Capitoline Museums.
Reserve through the restaurant's official contact details closer to travel.
- OrAroma Restaurant, Italian fine dining, higher. For a special evening with a Colosseum outlook; reserve well ahead when 2027 dates open.
- OrAi Tre Scalini, Roman wine bar and small plates, lower. A relaxed Monti option for wine and share plates after a full sightseeing day.
Key decision
Book the Colosseum site directly
Official timed entry provides the core archaeological access without paying for a general tour. Add an official guided element only if you want the extra interpretation or restricted-area access.
Photo: Petar Milošević, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Day 3
Vatican City and Prati
- morningUse the official Vatican Museums ticket channel for an early timed entry. Allow about 3 hours for the museums, Sistine Chapel and exits, with the exact 2027 opening arrangements still to be confirmed.LinkMap
- afternoonWalk to St Peter's Basilica after the museums. Basilica access, security procedures and dome arrangements can change, so reconfirm the official visitor information shortly before travel.Map
- afternoonTake a late lunch and a slower walk through Prati, a flatter and less hectic neighbourhood than the central lanes. Via Cola di Rienzo is useful for an easy browse if you want shops rather than another museum.Map
- eveningCross Ponte Sant'Angelo towards Castel Sant'Angelo for exterior views and a sunset walk beside the Tiber. Enter the castle only if energy remains.Map
DinnerPizzarium Bonci, Roman pizza al taglio, lowercasual lunch or early dinner
A practical Vatican-area choice for high-quality pizza by the slice without a long formal meal.
Walk in; go outside peak lunch periods where possible.
- OrIl Sorpasso, Roman and Italian, mid-range. A well-placed Prati dinner option for a more relaxed sit-down meal after Vatican City.
- OrLa Pergola, Italian fine dining, higher. A destination dinner for a major splurge, best treated as a separate taxi journey and booked well ahead.
Key decision
Museum first, basilica second
The Vatican Museums are the most time-sensitive part of the day. An early entry protects the rest of the day from queues and leaves the basilica and Prati flexible.
Photo: Petar Milošević, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Day 4
Trastevere, the Jewish Ghetto and Testaccio food
- morningCross Ponte Sisto into Trastevere before the lanes become busy. Visit Basilica di Santa Maria in Trastevere and wander the quieter streets around Piazza di Santa Maria.Map
- afternoonWalk about 20 minutes to the Jewish Ghetto for the Portico d'Ottavia and the lanes around Via del Portico d'Ottavia. Dress respectfully near places of worship and check any access controls on the day.Map
- afternoonContinue to Campo de' Fiori and Piazza Farnese for a slow coffee or gelato stop, then keep the late afternoon open for rest, shopping or an unplanned neighbourhood walk.Map
- eveningHead to Testaccio for the evening. It is one of Rome's strongest food neighbourhoods, reached in roughly 15 to 25 minutes by taxi from the historic centre depending on traffic.Map
DinnerFlavio al Velavevodetto, Roman, mid-rangesit-down dinner
A classic Testaccio setting for Roman pasta and local dishes, matching the food-neighbourhood focus.
Reserve through the restaurant's official contact details once 2027 dates are available.
- OrGlass Hostaria, Contemporary Italian, higher. A more polished Trastevere option if you prefer to avoid the extra trip to Testaccio.
- OrTrapizzino Trastevere, Roman street food, lower. A quick, informal choice for filled pizza pockets and an easy Trastevere evening.
Key decision
Keep the afternoon deliberately uncommitted
This is the recovery buffer for heat, jet lag, shopping or a long lunch. It protects the trip from becoming a sequence of fixed museum bookings.
Photo: Petar Milošević, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Day 5
Villa Borghese, Spanish Steps and a flexible final Rome afternoon
- morningBook Galleria Borghese directly through its official channel for the first available morning entry. The collection is compact, so it works well as a focused 2-hour visit rather than an all-day museum.Map
- morningWalk through Villa Borghese to the Pincio Terrace for city views, then descend to Piazza del Popolo. Allow about 20 to 30 minutes at an easy pace, longer if stopping in the gardens.Map
- afternoonContinue via the Spanish Steps and Via Condotti. This is best treated as a scenic walk and shopping area rather than a tightly scheduled attraction.Map
- eveningLeave the rest of the afternoon free. If you want one final landmark, see Trevi Fountain after dinner or early the next morning, when it is generally less crowded than mid-afternoon.Map
DinnerPierluigi, Italian seafood and Roman, highersit-down dinner
A central special-occasion dinner near Campo de' Fiori, suitable for the final full evening in Rome.
Reserve directly with the restaurant when June 2027 bookings are released.
- OrCesare al Casaletto, Roman, mid-range. A respected Roman trattoria if you are happy to take a taxi beyond the historic centre.
- OrSupplizio, Roman snacks and supplì, lower. A convenient central option for a light final meal or snack before an evening walk.
Key decision
Reserve Galleria Borghese, then keep the afternoon open
The gallery has controlled entry and should be locked in first. The Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain and surrounding streets are better enjoyed without a timetable, especially in June heat.
Photo: Petar Milošević, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
A table worth planning around · Day 1
Armando al Pantheon
Roman · mid-range
A long-running Roman kitchen near the Pantheon, practical after an easy arrival walk.
Reserve directly by phone or the restaurant's official booking contact once June 2027 availability is released.
Photo: Petar Milošević, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
preferred
Hotel Indigo Rome - St. George
5-star · rating not yet checked
Via Giulia 62, 00186 Rome, Italy
Via Giulia, 62, 00186 Roma RM, Italia
Via Giulia places you between Campo de' Fiori, Piazza Navona, the Vatican approach and Trastevere. It suits the walking-led first five days while still making taxi transfers to Termini manageable.
Ask the hotel to confirm whether it can accept luggage before check-in and hold it after check-out, the easiest access point for a taxi, room size and current cancellation terms.
Not yet checked
Photo: Petar Milošević, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
alternative
Hotel de Russie
5-star · rating not yet checked
Via del Babuino 9, 00187 Rome, Italy
Via del Babuino, 9, 00187 Roma RM, Italia
Between Piazza del Popolo and the Spanish Steps, this is a strong fit for Villa Borghese, the Pincio and a polished central base. It is less convenient than Via Giulia for Trastevere but has simpler access to the north-central sights.
Confirm luggage storage, exact vehicle drop-off arrangements, room category and June 2027 rate and cancellation conditions directly with the hotel.
Not yet checked
Photo: Petar Milošević, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Chapter 02 · 4 nights · from Day 6
FlorenceFirenze
Four nights allow Florence to be experienced without rushing from gallery to gallery. Stay on the historic-centre side of the Arno or around Santa Maria Novella for straightforward station access. Arrival day is reserved for the rail transfer and hotel check-in.
- 06
Rome to Florence transfer and settling in
Leave the Rome hotel with time for the local transfer to Roma Termini; a taxi is simplest with larger cases.
- 07
Uffizi, Piazza della Signoria and the Arno
Book the Uffizi Galleries for the first entry period available. Concentrate on the Botticelli rooms, Leonardo, Michelangelo, Raphael and Titian rather than attempting every room.
Photo: Petar Milošević, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Signature place
Uffizi Galleries
Florence's principal Renaissance painting collection, best visited on a pre-booked early timed entry.
Photo: Petar Milošević, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Signature place
Galleria dell'Accademia di Firenze
The essential stop for Michelangelo's David and the unfinished Prisoners.
Photo: Petar Milošević, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Signature place
Opera del Duomo Museum and Cathedral Complex
The cathedral precinct, baptistery, bell tower and museum require ticket planning if entering paid areas.
Photo: Petar Milošević, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Signature place
Basilica of Santa Croce
A major Franciscan complex with art, cloisters and memorials to important Florentine figures.
Photo: Petar Milošević, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Day 6
Rome to Florence transfer and settling in
- morningLeave the Rome hotel with time for the local transfer to Roma Termini; a taxi is simplest with larger cases.Map
- morningTake a direct Frecce or Italo high-speed train from Roma Termini to Firenze Santa Maria Novella. Reserve adjacent seats and use the carriage-end racks for larger bags.Map
- afternoonTransfer from Santa Maria Novella to the hotel on foot if manageable, otherwise use the official taxi rank. Florence's historic centre has restricted traffic zones, so confirm the hotel's vehicle access point.Map
- eveningKeep the rest of the day unplanned. After check-in, take a gentle orientation walk from Piazza Santa Maria Novella to Piazza della Signoria if energy allows.Map
Travel from the Rome hotel to Roma Termini, take a direct high-speed train to Firenze Santa Maria Novella, then walk or take a taxi to the hotel. Allow about 2 to 3 hours door to door, plus a buffer for luggage and platforms.
DinnerTrattoria Sostanza, Tuscan, Mid-rangeTraditional trattoria
A compact, long-running Florence trattoria known for straightforward Tuscan cooking. It is a good first-night choice if you want dinner near Santa Maria Novella without a formal tasting-menu commitment.
Phone or ask the hotel concierge to check current booking arrangements.
- OrTrattoria Mario, Tuscan, Budget to mid-range. A classic central-market lunch option for simple Florentine dishes. Check current service pattern and queue arrangements on the day.
- OrIl Santo Bevitore, Contemporary Tuscan, Upmarket. A polished Oltrarno dinner choice for a more considered meal and stronger wine list.
Key decision
Choose a hotel within easy reach of Santa Maria Novella
This keeps the rail arrival and Day 10 departure simple, while Piazza della Signoria, the Duomo and Oltrarno remain walkable. It also avoids relying on taxis inside restricted-traffic streets with luggage.
Photo: Petar Milošević, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Day 7
Uffizi, Piazza della Signoria and the Arno
- morningBook the Uffizi Galleries for the first entry period available. Concentrate on the Botticelli rooms, Leonardo, Michelangelo, Raphael and Titian rather than attempting every room.Map
- afternoonStep into Piazza della Signoria after the gallery for Palazzo Vecchio's exterior, the Loggia dei Lanzi and the fountain of Neptune.Map
- afternoonWalk through the Vasari Corridor precinct and across Ponte Vecchio, then continue to Piazza Pitti for an Oltrarno wander.Map
- eveningUse the cooler evening for a riverside walk from Ponte Santa Trinita, where there is a clear view back to Ponte Vecchio.Map
DinnerTrattoria Cammillo, Tuscan, Mid-rangeTraditional trattoria
On the Oltrarno side near Ponte Vecchio, it suits a day that finishes around Pitti and the river. The menu is rooted in Tuscan staples rather than a tourist set menu.
Phone or ask the hotel concierge to book once 2027 arrangements are published.
- OrI' Brindellone, Tuscan, Budget to mid-range. A casual San Frediano option for hearty Florentine dishes and a livelier local feel.
- OrCibrèo Trattoria, Tuscan, Upmarket. A more polished Sant'Ambrogio dinner with an established Tuscan cooking tradition.
Key decision
Pre-book the Uffizi rather than queueing
The Uffizi is the essential Renaissance-art visit in Florence and summer demand is high. An early timed entry protects the afternoon for the piazzas and Oltrarno at an easier pace.
Photo: Petar Milošević, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Day 8
Accademia, Duomo precinct and artisan Oltrarno
- morningVisit the Galleria dell'Accademia on a timed ticket, primarily for Michelangelo's David and the unfinished Prisoners. Book direct through the official museum channel when 2027 slots are released.Map
- afternoonWalk the Duomo precinct: Florence Cathedral exterior, Giotto's Bell Tower and the Baptistery. Choose only one paid climb or interior visit if the heat is building.Map
- afternoonCross to Oltrarno for artisan streets around Via Maggio, Borgo San Jacopo and Piazza Santo Spirito. Treat this as browsing time, not a shopping mission.Map
- eveningFinish at Piazzale Michelangelo around sunset. It is a steady uphill walk, so take a local bus or taxi if preferred and walk down afterwards.Map
DinnerIl Latini, Tuscan, Mid-rangeTraditional Tuscan restaurant
Near Santa Maria Novella, it is convenient after a full central day and is known for traditional shared-table Tuscan dishes. Confirm whether its current dining format suits you before booking.
Book directly with the restaurant or ask the hotel concierge to confirm availability and service format.
- OrI' Girone De' Ghiotti, Tuscan sandwiches and cured meats, Budget. Useful for a quick, good-value lunch near the centre, leaving more time for galleries and the artisan quarter.
- OrEnoteca Pinchiorri, Italian fine dining, High-end. A major special-occasion option for a long, formal dinner. Reserve well ahead once 2027 dates are available.
Key decision
Pick one vertical Duomo experience only
The dome and bell tower both involve substantial stair climbing and can be hot in June. One climb leaves enough energy for the Accademia and the more relaxed artisan streets of Oltrarno.
Photo: Petar Milošević, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Day 9
Flexible Florence half-day and Santa Croce
- morningStart at the Basilica of Santa Croce for its church, cloisters and tombs associated with Michelangelo, Galileo and Machiavelli. Check the official visitor information before going.Map
- afternoonContinue through Sant'Ambrogio and its surrounding streets for a less formal local-neighbourhood feel than the Duomo precinct.Map
- afternoonKeep the afternoon deliberately free. Use it for a long lunch, leather or paper-goods browsing, a hotel rest, or the Bargello Museum if you want another focused sculpture visit.Map
- eveningTake a final evening passeggiata via Piazza della Repubblica and the Arno, then pack for the Venice rail transfer tomorrow.Map
DinnerCibrèo Trattoria, Tuscan, UpmarketRefined trattoria
In the Sant'Ambrogio area, it gives the final Florence dinner a more special feel while staying rooted in regional cooking.
Book directly with the restaurant or ask the hotel concierge to arrange a reservation.
- OrMercato Centrale Firenze, Italian regional food stalls, Budget to mid-range. A flexible choice if the day runs differently than planned and you want several casual options in one central location.
- OrSanta Elisabetta, Contemporary Italian, High-end. A special-occasion option in central Florence for travellers wanting a formal final dinner. Confirm current menus and reservations directly.
Key decision
Protect the afternoon from advance bookings
Florence's compact centre rewards unstructured time. This buffer also absorbs heat, museum fatigue, shopping, laundry or a weather-driven change without losing the core Renaissance highlights.
Photo: Petar Milošević, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
A table worth planning around · Day 6
Trattoria Sostanza
Tuscan · Mid-range
A compact, long-running Florence trattoria known for straightforward Tuscan cooking. It is a good first-night choice if you want dinner near Santa Maria Novella without a formal tasting-menu commitment.
Phone or ask the hotel concierge to check current booking arrangements.
Photo: Petar Milošević, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
preferred
The Place Firenze
5-star · rating not yet checked
Piazza di Santa Maria Novella 7, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy
Piazza di Santa Maria Novella, 7, 50123 Firenze FI, Italia
A high-end base directly on Piazza Santa Maria Novella, about a 5-minute walk from Firenze Santa Maria Novella station. It suits the rail-heavy itinerary and puts the Duomo, Uffizi and Arno within practical walking distance.
Ask the hotel to confirm 2027 room availability, cancellation terms, station-to-hotel luggage assistance and taxi drop-off arrangements within the restricted-traffic area. Confirm whether it accepts luggage before check-in and after check-out.
Not yet checked
Photo: Petar Milošević, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
alternative
Hotel Lungarno
5-star · rating not yet checked
Borgo San Jacopo 14, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy
Borgo San Jacopo, 14, 50125 Firenze FI, Italia
A riverfront Oltrarno address beside Ponte Vecchio, ideal for artisan streets, evening Arno walks and restaurants around Santo Spirito. It is less convenient for the station than Santa Maria Novella, so plan a taxi with luggage.
Confirm 2027 rates, room type, vehicle access, porter assistance and luggage storage directly with the hotel before booking. Ask whether early-arrival bags can be accepted on Day 6.
Not yet checked
Photo: Petar Milošević, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Chapter 03 · 4 nights · from Day 10
VeniceVenezia
Base in Venice proper for four nights, ideally in San Polo, Dorsoduro or Cannaregio rather than commuting daily from the mainland. The transfer day has no fixed activity. Keep at least one afternoon free for a vaporetto ride or a quiet cicchetti stop.
- 10
Florence to Venice transfer
Travel from Firenze Santa Maria Novella to Venezia Santa Lucia on a direct high-speed service, booking adjacent seats and using the end-of-carriage luggage racks.
- 11
Early San Marco and Castello
Pre-book the earliest available entry to St Mark's Basilica. This is the best chance to see it before the square and basilica become crowded.
Photo: Petar Milošević, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Signature place
St Mark's Basilica
Book an early entry to see Venice's principal basilica before the heaviest crowds.
Photo: Petar Milošević, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Signature place
Doge's Palace
The former seat of Venetian government, best paired with St Mark's Basilica on the same early morning.
Photo: Petar Milošević, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Signature place
Murano Glass Museum
A useful historical anchor for Murano's glassmaking tradition before exploring the island canals.
Photo: Petar Milošević, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Signature place
Peggy Guggenheim Collection
A compact Grand Canal museum that gives the itinerary a strong 20th-century art stop.
Photo: Petar Milošević, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Day 10
Florence to Venice transfer
- morningTravel from Firenze Santa Maria Novella to Venezia Santa Lucia on a direct high-speed service, booking adjacent seats and using the end-of-carriage luggage racks.Map
- afternoonFrom Santa Lucia, walk only if the hotel is close and bags are manageable; otherwise use an ACTV vaporetto to the nearest stop.LinkMap
- afternoonCheck in, confirm the nearest vaporetto stop and ask the hotel for its least-bridge route to Piazza San Marco.Map
- eveningKeep the evening unstructured: take a gentle first walk through San Polo and along the Grand Canal rather than trying to fit in a major sight.Map
Leave Florence for Venezia Santa Lucia, then walk or take ACTV vaporetto to the hotel. Allow 2 hours by direct high-speed train plus 10 to 35 minutes locally; Venice bridges make a vaporetto stop near the hotel valuable with luggage.
DinnerOsteria La Zucca, Venetian and seasonal Italian, $$sit-down dinner
A well-placed San Polo choice for the first night, within an easy walk of the quieter western side of Venice and with a vegetable-forward Venetian menu.
Book directly with the restaurant before travel; confirm 2027 service days and reservations.
- OrTrattoria alla Madonna, Traditional Venetian seafood, $$$. Near Rialto and suited to a classic seafood-focused first dinner if you want a livelier central setting.
- OrBacareto da Lele, Cicchetti and sandwiches, $. Near Piazzale Roma, useful for a simple low-cost bite if travel runs late.
Key decision
Keep the arrival day free of fixed sightseeing
The rail journey is straightforward, but Venice arrival involves bridges, water transport and hotel access. A San Polo wander gives you a worthwhile first evening without risking a missed timed entry.
Photo: Petar Milošević, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Day 11
Early San Marco and Castello
- morningPre-book the earliest available entry to St Mark's Basilica. This is the best chance to see it before the square and basilica become crowded.Map
- morningWalk through Piazza San Marco to the Doge's Palace, allowing time for the institutional rooms and the Bridge of Sighs route if included with the chosen ticket.Map
- afternoonTake the quieter walk east through Castello to Campo Santa Maria Formosa and the bookshop Libreria Acqua Alta. Treat the bookshop as a brief stop, not the main purpose of the day.Map
- afternoonFinish around Via Garibaldi and the Giardini della Biennale, a more residential waterside part of Venice with room to wander before dinner.Map
DinnerOsteria alle Testiere, Venetian seafood, $$$small sit-down restaurant
A small, serious Venetian seafood restaurant near Campo Santa Maria Formosa, fitting naturally after the Castello walk.
Reserve directly well ahead once 2027 dates are open.
- OrTrattoria da Remigio, Venetian seafood and pasta, $$. A more moderately priced Castello option close to the eastern half of the day.
- OrBacaro Risorto, Cicchetti and wine, $. Useful for an informal cicchetti dinner near San Giovanni e Paolo if you prefer to keep the evening flexible.
Key decision
Book the two San Marco essentials, then leave Castello unstructured
St Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace reward an early timed entry. Castello works best without a rigid route, especially in warm weather when a shaded campo or waterside stop may be more appealing than another museum.
Photo: Petar Milošević, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Day 12
Murano, Burano and lagoon time
- morningTake an ACTV vaporetto from Fondamente Nove to Murano. Check live routing and disruption notices on the official ACTV site before leaving.LinkMap
- morningVisit the Museo del Vetro in Murano for context on the island's glassmaking tradition, then use the canals away from the busiest group-tour stretch.Map
- afternoonContinue by vaporetto to Burano for the coloured houses, lace tradition and a slow canal-side walk. Have lunch here rather than rushing back to Venice.LinkMap
- afternoonReturn to Venice before late evening, or shorten the day by visiting Murano only if heat, rain or waterbus queues make a longer lagoon circuit unappealing.Map
DinnerTrattoria al Gatto Nero, Burano seafood and Venetian pasta, $$$lagoon island trattoria
A long-running Burano lunch option that makes the island visit feel like a proper lagoon day rather than a quick photo stop.
Reserve directly before travel; confirm 2027 opening days and seating.
- OrTrattoria da Romano, Burano seafood and risotto, $$$. Another established Burano option, particularly useful if your preferred lunch time is unavailable.
- OrOsteria al Ponte del Diavolo, Venetian lagoon cooking, $$. A lower-key Murano alternative if you decide not to continue to Burano.
Key decision
Choose the full lagoon circuit only if conditions suit
Murano and Burano are worthwhile together, but vaporetto travel and summer exposure make it a long day. If it is hot, wet or crowded, do Murano properly and save Burano for another visit rather than racing both islands.
Photo: Petar Milošević, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Day 13
Dorsoduro, the Grand Canal and free afternoon
- morningVisit the Peggy Guggenheim Collection soon after opening for 20th-century art in Palazzo Venier dei Leoni on the Grand Canal.Map
- morningWalk through Dorsoduro via Campo Santa Margherita and the Zattere. This is a calmer counterpoint to San Marco and gives good shade and canal views.Map
- afternoonSee Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute, then take vaporetto line 1 along the Grand Canal for the full water-level view of Venetian palaces.Map
- eveningProtect the late afternoon for whatever you have enjoyed most: a cicchetti crawl in Cannaregio, a second vaporetto ride, shopping for glass or paper goods, or simply rest before the Switzerland transfer.Map
DinnerOsteria Enoteca Ai Artisti, Modern Venetian and Italian, $$$small sit-down restaurant
An intimate Dorsoduro restaurant close to the day's walking route, suited to a final Venetian dinner without returning to the busiest streets.
Reserve directly before travel and reconfirm close to the date.
- OrOsteria Bancogiro, Venetian cicchetti and seasonal dishes, $$. Beside the Grand Canal near Rialto, good for a more central but still characterful final dinner.
- OrCantine del Vino già Schiavi, Cicchetti and wine, $. A straightforward Dorsoduro option for a light, informal meal before an early packing night.
Key decision
Keep the final afternoon open
This is the planned flexible half-day. It provides a weather buffer for the lagoon or a major sight missed earlier, and avoids overloading the day before the long Venice to Zurich rail transfer.
Photo: Petar Milošević, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
A table worth planning around · Day 10
Osteria La Zucca
Venetian and seasonal Italian · $$
A well-placed San Polo choice for the first night, within an easy walk of the quieter western side of Venice and with a vegetable-forward Venetian menu.
Book directly with the restaurant before travel; confirm 2027 service days and reservations.
Photo: Petar Milošević, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
preferred
Ca' Sagredo Hotel
5-star · rating not yet checked
Campo Santa Sofia 4198/99, 30121 Venice, Italy
Campo Santa Sofia 4198/99, 30121 Venezia VE, Italia
On the Grand Canal beside Ca' d'Oro, with easy access to Rialto, Cannaregio and the Ca' d'Oro vaporetto stop. It suits this itinerary because it places San Marco within a reasonable walk while keeping you on the less hectic Cannaregio side of the centre.
Ask the hotel to confirm the closest waterbus stop, bridge-free or low-bridge arrival route from Santa Lucia, porter assistance and whether it accepts luggage delivery before guest arrival.
Not yet checked
Photo: Petar Milošević, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
alternative
Palazzo Morosini degli Spezieri
4-star · rating not yet checked
San Polo 2347/2348, 30125 Venice, Italy
San Polo 2347/2348, 30125 Venezia VE, Italia
A San Polo base close to Rialto Market and within practical reach of Santa Lucia, while giving you quieter local streets for the first and final evenings. Apartment-style space can also help during a five-week trip, subject to room type.
Confirm the exact apartment access, lift availability, bridge count from the nearest vaporetto stop, reception hours and luggage-storage or pre-arrival delivery policy.
Not yet checked
Chapter 04 · 4 nights · from Day 14
ZurichZürich
Four nights in Zurich create a comfortable pause between Italy and France. Choose a central 4 to 5-star hotel around Enge, the old town or the lakefront. The city works as a refined base for a lake day, museums and an optional rail excursion once 2027 schedules are confirmed.
- 14
Venice to Zurich transfer and lakefront settling-in
Leave the Venice hotel with time for bridges, vaporetto access and luggage handling before Venezia Santa Lucia.
- 15
Zurich old town, riverfront and Kunsthaus
Walk from the hotel via Paradeplatz and Bahnhofstrasse to Lindenhof for an elevated view across the Limmat and old town. Allow about 20 minutes from Baur au Lac at an easy pace.
Signature place
Lake Zurich and Bürkliplatz
The easiest central lakefront for a promenade, public boat departure and flexible evening walk.
Signature place
Zurich Old Town
A walkable sequence of Lindenhof, the Limmat, Fraumünster, Grossmünster and Niederdorf.
Signature place
Kunsthaus Zürich
The main art museum choice, best paired with the old town and Bellevue.
Signature place
Swiss National Museum
A practical history-focused museum next to Zürich Hauptbahnhof for the final morning.
Signature place
Mount Rigi
A flexible full-day Alpine option for a clear day, reached by rail and mountain railway.
Photo: Petar Milošević, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Day 14
Venice to Zurich transfer and lakefront settling-in
- morningLeave the Venice hotel with time for bridges, vaporetto access and luggage handling before Venezia Santa Lucia.LinkMap
- morningTake the booked Venice to Zurich rail itinerary, commonly via Milano Centrale. Keep passports, medication and valuables in a day bag.Map
- afternoonCheck in, confirm whether the hotel can receive forwarded bags on a later visit, and ask reception for the nearest tram stop and lake access.Map
- eveningIf energy allows, take an easy 15 to 25-minute walk from Bürkliplatz along the eastern Lake Zurich promenade towards Bellevue.Map
Travel from Venice hotel to Venezia Santa Lucia, then international rail to Zürich Hauptbahnhof, followed by a short tram, walk or taxi to the hotel. Allow about 6 to 8 hours station to station, usually with a Milan connection, plus local transfers. No fixed sightseeing today.
DinnerZeughauskeller, Swiss and Zurich brasserie, $$historic restaurant
It is a practical first-night choice near Paradeplatz and the preferred hotel, with recognisable Swiss dishes after a long rail day.
Reserve through the restaurant's official website or ask the hotel concierge to book once 2027 dates are firm.
- OrKronenhalle, Swiss and European, $$$$. Choose for a higher-end first evening close to Bellevue, with a long-established dining room and art-filled setting.
- OrHiltl, Vegetarian Swiss and international, $$. A flexible central option near Paradeplatz if a lighter meal suits the arrival evening.
Key decision
Keep Day 14 free after arrival
The Venice to Zurich journey can involve a Milan connection and summer disruption. A lakefront walk is optional, but do not commit to a timed museum, cruise or dinner far from the hotel.
Day 15
Zurich old town, riverfront and Kunsthaus
- morningWalk from the hotel via Paradeplatz and Bahnhofstrasse to Lindenhof for an elevated view across the Limmat and old town. Allow about 20 minutes from Baur au Lac at an easy pace.Map
- morningContinue through the Altstadt: St. Peter, Münsterhof, Fraumünster and Grossmünster. Enter only the churches that are open on the day, as services and events can alter access.Map
- afternoonVisit Kunsthaus Zürich for Swiss art and the major modern collection. Pre-book only if the museum’s 2027 ticketing system requires a timed entry.Map
- eveningUse the later afternoon for Bellevue, the Quai Bridge and a lakeside drink, rather than adding another indoor attraction.Map
DinnerHaus zum Rüden, Contemporary Swiss, $$$historic riverside restaurant
It sits in the old town near the Limmat, so it fits naturally after Kunsthaus and the riverfront walk without requiring a cross-city transfer.
Book directly through the restaurant's official website once 2027 availability is published.
- OrRestaurant zum Kropf, Swiss and European, $$. A more moderately priced Bahnhofstrasse-area choice, useful if you prefer an earlier, uncomplicated dinner.
- OrStorchen Zürich La Rôtisserie, French and Swiss, $$$$. A more formal riverside option with a strong old-town position for a celebratory evening.
Key decision
Choose one major museum
Kunsthaus is the best fit for art, while the Swiss National Museum is better for broad Swiss history. Do not try to do both in one afternoon if you want time to enjoy the old town.
Day 16
Flexible Alpine day: Uetliberg or Mount Rigi
- morningCheck the mountain forecast, visibility and operating notices after breakfast. If cloud, storms or poor visibility are expected, use the Zurich museum and lake plan instead.Map
- morningBest clear-weather option: take rail from Zürich Hauptbahnhof to Arth-Goldau, then the Rigi Bahn to Rigi Kulm. This is a full-day outing and all 2027 train and mountain-rail timings need confirmation.Map
- afternoonAt Rigi Kulm, take a short signed walk only within your comfort level, carry water and a warm layer, and descend before late-afternoon weather changes.Map
- afternoonPoor-weather or low-energy alternative: take the S-Bahn from Zürich Hauptbahnhof to Uetliberg for a much shorter local hill walk, then return for an unhurried lakeside afternoon.Map
- eveningFinish with an optional Lake Zurich public boat ride from Bürkliplatz if the weather remains settled; check the day’s timetable before leaving the hotel.Map
DinnerRestaurant Felsenegg, Swiss, $$mountain restaurant
It is a convenient lunch option if you choose the local Uetliberg and Felsenegg route, avoiding the need to carry a full picnic.
Book directly through the venue or confirm with the hotel after choosing the Uetliberg option.
- OrRigi Kulm Hotel Restaurant, Swiss and Alpine, $$$. Choose if undertaking the Mount Rigi full-day option and you want a seated summit lunch.
- OrSternen Grill, Swiss grill and sausages, $. A lower-cost Zurich fallback for a quick dinner after any mountain day, close to Bellevue.
Key decision
Commit to Mount Rigi only for a clear-weather day
Rigi is worthwhile for broad lake and Alpine views, but those views are the point. If visibility is poor, Uetliberg or an indoor Zurich day gives a better return and keeps the longer excursion flexible.
Day 17
Lake Zurich, Swiss National Museum and free afternoon
- morningVisit the Swiss National Museum beside Zürich Hauptbahnhof for a structured overview of Swiss cultural history. Check its official 2027 calendar and ticket arrangements before setting a timed entry.Map
- afternoonWalk five minutes to the Landesmuseum riverfront, then follow the Limmat south through the old town at a relaxed pace, stopping at Niederdorf if it appeals.Map
- afternoonKeep the second half of the afternoon uncommitted. Use it for a Lake Zurich boat cruise, shopping around Bahnhofstrasse, a swim if conditions suit, or a return to any old-town lane missed on Day 15.Map
- eveningPack for the Paris transfer tomorrow, reconfirm the TGV Lyria departure time and leave passports, tickets and valuables ready in the day bag.Map
DinnerBaur's, European brasserie, $$$hotel brasserie
It is at the preferred hotel and makes the final Zurich evening simple, particularly if rain or a late lake return changes the day’s timing.
Reserve directly through the restaurant or Baur au Lac official website once the date is available.
- OrRaclette Factory, Swiss raclette, $$. A central, more casual option for a classic Swiss meal near the old town.
- OrPavillon at Baur au Lac, French and contemporary European, $$$$. Choose for a special final dinner if you want a more formal experience and reservation availability is confirmed.
Key decision
Protect the free afternoon
This is the weather buffer for a lake cruise or for catching up on an attraction missed because of rain. It also avoids arriving at the Paris transfer day tired and under-packed.
A table worth planning around · Day 14
Zeughauskeller
Swiss and Zurich brasserie · $$
It is a practical first-night choice near Paradeplatz and the preferred hotel, with recognisable Swiss dishes after a long rail day.
Reserve through the restaurant's official website or ask the hotel concierge to book once 2027 dates are firm.
preferred
Baur au Lac
5-star · rating not yet checked
Talstrasse 1, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland
Talstrasse 1, 8001 Zürich, Schweiz
On the lake-side edge of the centre, about 8 to 12 minutes on foot from Bürkliplatz and Bellevue, with easy tram access to Zürich Hauptbahnhof. It suits Lake Zurich walks, old-town sightseeing and a polished final dinner without relying on long taxi rides.
Recommended for the 14/06/2027 to 18/06/2027 Zurich stay, subject to 2027 rates and room inventory. Ask the hotel to confirm room category, air-conditioning, station transfer advice and whether it accepts couriered luggage before booking.
Not yet checked
alternative
The Dolder Grand
5-star · rating not yet checked
Kurhausstrasse 65, 8032 Zürich, Switzerland
Kurhausstrasse 65, 8032 Zürich, Schweiz
A quiet hilltop alternative beside woodland, with broad city and lake views and a direct hotel shuttle or public transport connection to central Zurich. It suits travellers who value resort-style downtime more than walking straight out into the old town.
Recommended only if the retreat setting matters more than central convenience. Confirm the 2027 shuttle arrangement, restaurant closure dates, room air-conditioning and luggage acceptance directly with the hotel.
Not yet checked
Chapter 05 · 6 nights · from Day 18
ParisParis
Six nights give Paris the longest mainland stay, allowing a calmer rhythm around museums and reservations. A Left Bank, Marais, Opéra or Saint-Germain location gives good access while retaining time for café stops and wandering. Arrival day stays clear, and one half-day remains deliberately open.
- 18
Zurich to Paris transfer
Leave the Zurich hotel with time for luggage collection, the local transfer and international rail boarding.
- 19
Louvre, Tuileries and the Seine
Enter the Louvre on a timed ticket at the opening period. Focus on one wing or a short route rather than trying to cover the whole museum.
Signature place
Louvre Museum
Book a timed entry and focus on a manageable section rather than attempting the whole collection.
Signature place
Musée d'Orsay
A strong second major museum for Impressionist and post-Impressionist art in the former railway station.
Signature place
Sainte-Chapelle
Reserve ahead for the stained glass and allow time for security screening.
Signature place
Musée Carnavalet
Paris history museum in the Marais, useful for a quieter cultural stop between neighbourhood walks.
Signature place
Notre-Dame de Paris
Check the official visitor information before going because access arrangements may change.
Day 18
Zurich to Paris transfer
- morningLeave the Zurich hotel with time for luggage collection, the local transfer and international rail boarding.Map
- morningTake the TGV Lyria from Zürich Hauptbahnhof to Paris Gare de Lyon. Book adjacent seats and keep passports accessible.Map
- afternoonUse the official taxi rank, G7 or a hotel-arranged car from Gare de Lyon. With large bags, avoid a Metro transfer with stairs.Map
- eveningCheck in, unpack and keep the evening deliberately light with a short walk through the Tuileries or along Rue Saint-Honoré if energy allows.Map
Travel from central Zurich to Zürich Hauptbahnhof, take TGV Lyria to Paris Gare de Lyon, then use an official taxi or hotel-arranged car to the hotel. Planning time: about 4 hours 5 minutes by direct train, plus local transfers. No fixed sightseeing today.
DinnerLe Soufflé, French, Mid-rangeRestaurant
It is close to the suggested hotel and suits a low-effort first evening after the train.
Reserve through the restaurant's official website or contact details once 2027 availability is published.
- OrJuveniles, French bistro and wine bar, Mid-range. A relaxed central bistro option with a short walk from the hotel area.
- OrL'Arpège, French tasting menu, High-end. Choose this only if you want to make the first Paris evening a major dining occasion and can secure a suitable reservation.
Key decision
Use a taxi for the Gare de Lyon hotel transfer
A taxi costs more than Metro travel but removes stairs, narrow gates and a final walk with luggage after an international rail day.
Day 19
Louvre, Tuileries and the Seine
- morningEnter the Louvre on a timed ticket at the opening period. Focus on one wing or a short route rather than trying to cover the whole museum.Map
- afternoonWalk through the Tuileries Garden towards Place de la Concorde. It is an easy outdoor reset after the museum.Map
- afternoonFollow the Seine from Pont Royal towards Pont Neuf, stopping at the booksellers and river views rather than setting a strict pace.Map
- eveningKeep the early evening free for a drink, shopping around Palais Royal, or a rest at the hotel before dinner.Map
DinnerBistrot Richelieu, French bistro, Mid-rangeBistro
Near the Louvre and Palais Royal, so it works well after a museum-focused day without another cross-city trip.
Book directly with the restaurant once its 2027 reservation settings are published.
- OrLe Fumoir, French and international, Mid-range. A very convenient Louvre-side option for a slower lunch or early dinner.
- OrPalais Royal Restaurant, Contemporary French, High-end. A more formal option near the gardens for a special Paris dinner.
Key decision
Book the Louvre before building the rest of the day
Timed entry is the one fixed commitment. The garden and Seine walk remain flexible if heat, rain or museum fatigue changes the pace.
Day 20
Musée d'Orsay and Saint-Germain-des-Prés
- morningVisit Musée d'Orsay for Impressionist and post-Impressionist works. Pre-book an entry time through the museum's official channel.Map
- afternoonCross Pont Royal or Passerelle Léopold-Sédar-Senghor and walk into Saint-Germain-des-Prés at an unhurried pace.Map
- afternoonSee the exterior of Église de Saint-Germain-des-Prés, then browse Rue de Buci and the nearby side streets for food shops and bookshops.Map
- eveningLeave time for a café stop, a hotel break or a return stroll beside the Seine. This is the protected unstructured half-day for the Paris stay.Map
DinnerSemilla, Contemporary French, Mid-rangeRestaurant
In Saint-Germain-des-Prés, close to the day's walking route and well suited to a relaxed but polished dinner.
Reserve through the restaurant's official booking channel when 2027 dates are released.
- OrLe Comptoir du Relais, French bistro, Mid-range. A classic Left Bank choice, useful if you prefer an established bistro atmosphere.
- OrArpège, French tasting menu, High-end. A destination meal near Les Invalides for travellers wanting a high-end vegetarian-led tasting menu.
Key decision
Keep only Musée d'Orsay timed
Saint-Germain is best explored by wandering. A single museum booking leaves room to adjust for weather and how long you want to spend in galleries.
Day 21
Le Marais, Place des Vosges and Centre Pompidou
- morningStart at Place des Vosges, then walk through the quieter southern Marais streets before shops become busy.Map
- morningVisit the Musée Carnavalet for the history of Paris. Check the museum's official page for 2027 access conditions and any temporary-gallery changes.Map
- afternoonExplore Rue des Francs-Bourgeois, Rue Vieille du Temple and the small lanes around Hôtel de Sully. Stop where it looks appealing rather than following a fixed route.Map
- afternoonWalk to Centre Pompidou only if its 2027 reopening and exhibition programme are confirmed. Otherwise use the time for the Seine near Hôtel de Ville or a longer Marais wander.Map
DinnerLe Petit Célestin, French bistro, Mid-rangeBistro
Near the eastern Marais and the Seine, with a straightforward walk from Place des Vosges.
Reserve directly with the restaurant once 2027 dates are available.
- OrChez Janou, Provençal French, Mid-range. A lively Marais option near Place des Vosges.
- OrDavid Toutain, Contemporary French tasting menu, High-end. A destination-level dinner across the river for a night when a longer meal is the main event.
Key decision
Treat Centre Pompidou as optional
Its operating arrangements can change during major works. Carnavalet and the Marais provide a complete day even if Centre Pompidou is unavailable.
Day 22
Montmartre early, then an open Paris afternoon
- morningReach Sacré-Cœur early for cooler temperatures and clearer views. Use the funicular or take the steps according to comfort.Map
- morningWalk through Place du Tertre and downhill via Rue de l'Abreuvoir and Rue des Saules. These streets are most pleasant before the busiest part of the day.Map
- afternoonVisit Musée de Montmartre if you want a contained cultural stop, or continue through the neighbourhood at your own pace.Map
- afternoonKeep the later afternoon unplanned. Return to the hotel, browse Galeries Lafayette, take a Seine cruise if conditions suit, or book a second museum only if you still have energy.Map
DinnerBouillon Pigalle, Traditional French, Budget to mid-rangeBouillon
A simple, casual choice after a Montmartre day, with less formality than a long fine-dining booking.
Walk in or check the restaurant's official channels closer to the date.
- OrLe Relais Gascon, French and south-western French, Mid-range. A nearby, more substantial Montmartre dinner option.
- OrMoulin Rouge, Dinner show, High-end. Choose only if a traditional Paris cabaret night matters more than a quiet neighbourhood dinner.
Key decision
Go to Montmartre early and leave the afternoon free
Montmartre is easier before crowds and summer heat build. The open afternoon protects recovery time and gives you a weather-led choice.
Day 23
Île de la Cité, Latin Quarter and a final Seine evening
- morningBook a timed entry for Sainte-Chapelle, allowing for security screening. Check official access rules before the visit.Map
- morningSee Notre-Dame Cathedral from the Île de la Cité and check the official cathedral site for 2027 visiting conditions before deciding whether to enter.Map
- afternoonCross to the Latin Quarter for a slow walk around Rue de la Huchette, Place de la Sorbonne and the Luxembourg Gardens.Map
- eveningFinish with a Seine walk from Pont Neuf towards the Left Bank, or take a Bateaux-Mouches cruise if you would prefer to rest your feet.Map
DinnerLe Procope, French brasserie, Mid-rangeBrasserie
A historic Left Bank setting close to the Latin Quarter route and an easy final full-night dinner.
Reserve through the restaurant's official booking channel closer to the date.
- OrBouillon Racine, Traditional French, Mid-range. A handsome Art Nouveau setting near Luxembourg Gardens with a comparatively accessible format.
- OrGuy Savoy, French tasting menu, High-end. A special-occasion option near the Monnaie de Paris for a final Paris dinner if the budget and reservation timing suit.
Key decision
Choose between a Seine cruise and a final long walk
Both give a strong final Paris evening. The cruise is easier after several days on foot, while the walk is more flexible and costs less.
A table worth planning around · Day 18
Le Soufflé
French · Mid-range
It is close to the suggested hotel and suits a low-effort first evening after the train.
Reserve through the restaurant's official website or contact details once 2027 availability is published.
preferred
Le Roch Hotel & Spa
5-star · rating not yet checked
28 Rue Saint-Roch, 75001 Paris, France
28 Rue Saint-Roch, 75001 Paris, France
This 1st arrondissement location is well placed for the Louvre, Tuileries, Palais Royal and the Seine, with manageable taxi access from Gare de Lyon. It also keeps the six-night stay central without committing you to one museum district.
Confirm the room category, air-conditioning, cancellation terms, breakfast, exact luggage storage policy and whether early arrival luggage can be accepted on 01/07/2027.
Not yet checked
alternative
Hôtel Dame des Arts
4-star · rating not yet checked
4 Rue Danton, 75006 Paris, France
4 Rue Danton, 75006 Paris, France
This Left Bank base puts Saint-Germain-des-Prés, the Latin Quarter, the Seine and Musée d'Orsay within easy reach. It is a good fit if you prefer neighbourhood dining and evening river walks over being closest to the Louvre.
Confirm room size, lift access, air-conditioning, taxi drop-off arrangements and luggage acceptance before booking. Gare de Lyon is typically easier by taxi than Metro with large cases.
Not yet checked
Chapter 06 · 4 nights · from Day 24
BarcelonaBarcelona
Four nights in Barcelona balance architecture, food and slower summer evenings. Consider Eixample, El Born or a well-connected part of Gràcia for a high-quality hotel base. The rail arrival day is only for transfer and settling in, with a free half-day retained later in the stay.
- 24
Paris to Barcelona transfer
Travel from Paris Gare de Lyon to Barcelona Sants on the confirmed SNCF or Renfe service. Keep passports accessible and use the carriage luggage racks.
- 25
Gaudí and Eixample
Visit the Basílica de la Sagrada Família at the first available timed entry. Book only through the official basilica website once 2027 tickets are released.
Signature place
Basílica de la Sagrada Família
Gaudí's basilica is the essential Barcelona interior. Use an early timed entry to avoid the busiest part of the day.
Signature place
Recinte Modernista de Sant Pau
A complete Modernisme hospital complex that pairs naturally with Sagrada Família.
Signature place
Park Güell
Gaudí's landscaped park above the city, best visited early because the approach is exposed and uphill.
Signature place
Casa Vicens
Gaudí's early house in Gràcia, useful as a smaller indoor alternative to the beach.
Day 24
Paris to Barcelona transfer
- morningTravel from Paris Gare de Lyon to Barcelona Sants on the confirmed SNCF or Renfe service. Keep passports accessible and use the carriage luggage racks.Map
- afternoonTake an official taxi from Barcelona Sants to the hotel. The direct ride avoids Metro stairs after a long rail day.Map
- eveningSettle in, buy water and take only a short orientation walk along Passeig de Gràcia to see Casa Batlló and La Pedrera from outside.Map
Leave Paris for Barcelona Sants by international high-speed rail, then take a taxi to Eixample. Allow about 7 to 8 hours station to station once the 2027 timetable is released.
DinnerEl Nacional, Spanish and Catalan, mid-range to upper-mid-rangerestaurant hall
It is an easy first-night choice near the hotel, with several kitchens under one roof and useful flexibility after a rail transfer.
Book through the venue's official website when 2027 availability is published.
- OrCiudad Condal, Catalan tapas, budget to mid-range. Busy, informal tapas near Passeig de Gràcia. Expect a queue at peak dinner time.
- OrMoments, Catalan fine dining, high-end. A formal tasting-menu option within Mandarin Oriental Barcelona for an unhurried first evening if a reservation is secured.
Key decision
Use a taxi after arriving at Barcelona Sants
The hotel is roughly 2 km from Sants, but a taxi is easier with cases and avoids station and Metro stairs. Confirm the 2027 rail arrival time before deciding whether dinner needs a reservation.
Day 25
Gaudí and Eixample
- morningVisit the Basílica de la Sagrada Família at the first available timed entry. Book only through the official basilica website once 2027 tickets are released.Map
- afternoonWalk about 20 minutes, or take a short taxi, to the Recinte Modernista de Sant Pau. Its Modernisme pavilions complement Gaudí's basilica without another crowded city-centre stop.Map
- afternoonReturn to Passeig de Gràcia for exterior viewing of Casa Batlló and Casa Milà. Choose one paid interior only if architecture is a priority, leaving time for a late Spanish lunch.Map
- eveningKeep the evening unplanned around Rambla de Catalunya or the hotel. This is the protected flexible half-day for shopping, rest or an indoor visit if it is hot.Map
DinnerCinc Sentits, Contemporary Catalan, high-endfine-dining restaurant
A focused Catalan tasting menu suits the architecture day and is within a short taxi ride of Eixample.
Reserve through the restaurant's official website when the relevant 2027 booking window opens.
- OrBodega Joan, Catalan and Spanish, mid-range. Straightforward local dishes in Eixample, suitable for a less formal evening.
- OrLa Pepita, Catalan tapas, budget to mid-range. A lively tapas option near Gràcia for a casual shared-plates dinner.
Key decision
Choose one Gaudí house interior, not both
Sagrada Família and Sant Pau already make a full architecture day. Casa Batlló is the stronger choice for immersive interiors; Casa Milà suits travellers more interested in the roofscape and building history.
Day 26
Market, Gothic Quarter and waterfront
- morningStart at Mercat de Sant Antoni, about 15 minutes by taxi or 25 minutes on foot from Eixample. It is a practical food-market choice with a more local feel than the busiest central market.Map
- afternoonWalk through El Raval and La Rambla, then continue into the Barri Gòtic. Keep valuables zipped away in crowded areas and avoid stopping in pinch points around La Rambla.Map
- afternoonSee the Cathedral of Barcelona from the Gothic Quarter, then walk through Plaça de Sant Jaume towards El Born for medieval lanes and independent shops.Map
- eveningFinish with a 20 to 30-minute walk from Port Vell towards Barceloneta before dinner. Go before sunset, but leave the beach area after dark if it feels crowded or uncomfortable.Map
DinnerCan Solé, Catalan seafood, upper-mid-rangeseafood restaurant
A longstanding Barceloneta seafood choice after the waterfront walk, with a proper sit-down Catalan meal rather than a tourist-market stop.
Reserve through the restaurant's official website or contact channel once 2027 service details are published.
- OrLa Cova Fumada, Catalan tapas and seafood, budget to mid-range. An informal Barceloneta institution. Go early and expect limited space rather than a polished dinner setting.
- Or7 Portes, Catalan and rice dishes, upper-mid-range. Near Port Vell, with classic rice and seafood dishes in a more traditional dining room.
Key decision
Use Sant Antoni rather than centring the day on La Boqueria
La Boqueria is historic and convenient, but Sant Antoni generally gives a calmer market experience. If La Boqueria is a must, walk through it briefly before 10:00 and avoid making it the main meal stop.
Day 27
Park Güell, Gràcia and the beach
- morningVisit Park Güell on a timed ticket early in the day. The Monumental Core requires advance entry, and the uphill approach makes a taxi from Eixample more comfortable in summer.Map
- afternoonWalk downhill into Vila de Gràcia for a slower lunch and a look at Plaça de la Vila de Gràcia and the surrounding small streets.Map
- afternoonKeep the afternoon free. Choose a hotel break in heat, Casa Vicens if you want one more Gaudí site, or a taxi to Bogatell Beach for a less central beach walk.Map
- eveningTake an early-evening seafront walk from Bogatell towards Port Olímpic. Swim only where conditions and flags permit, and do not leave phones or wallets unattended on the sand.Map
DinnerDisfrutar, Contemporary Catalan, high-endfine-dining restaurant
It is a destination meal near Eixample and a fitting final Barcelona dinner if the budget and booking window work.
Use the restaurant's official reservation system. Availability is likely to be limited, so check the published booking release date well ahead.
- OrGresca, Contemporary Catalan, mid-range to upper-mid-range. A more relaxed but still food-led Catalan dinner near Eixample.
- OrLa Pubilla, Catalan seasonal cooking, mid-range. A good Gràcia option for traditional flavours and a less formal final night.
Key decision
Make the final afternoon weather-led
Late June is usually warm but Barcelona can be humid or briefly wet. Choose the beach in settled conditions, Casa Vicens in heat or rain, or simply rest before the next day's airport transfer.
A table worth planning around · Day 24
El Nacional
Spanish and Catalan · mid-range to upper-mid-range
It is an easy first-night choice near the hotel, with several kitchens under one roof and useful flexibility after a rail transfer.
Book through the venue's official website when 2027 availability is published.
preferred
Alma Barcelona
5-star · rating not yet checked
Mallorca 271, 08008 Barcelona, Spain
Carrer de Mallorca, 271, 08008 Barcelona, Espanya
On the Eixample side of Passeig de Gràcia, about 5 minutes on foot from Casa Milà and roughly 10 minutes from Casa Batlló. It gives direct access to Modernisme, reliable taxi access and a simpler departure to Barcelona Airport than the older lanes of the Gothic Quarter.
Ask the hotel to confirm 2027 room rates, breakfast inclusion, bed configuration, cancellation terms, taxi access and pre-arrival luggage storage before booking.
Not yet checked
alternative
Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona
5-star · rating not yet checked
Passeig de Gràcia 38-40, 08007 Barcelona, Spain
Passeig de Gràcia, 38-40, 08007 Barcelona, Espanya
Directly on Passeig de Gràcia, placing Casa Batlló very close by and making Eixample evenings easy. It is a strong luxury choice for the architecture focus, though the main boulevard location is busier than Alma Barcelona.
Confirm 2027 availability, room type, breakfast, cancellation conditions, porter assistance and the hotel's policy for receiving luggage before arrival.
Not yet checked
Photo: Filipe Almeida, CC0, Wikimedia Commons
Chapter 07 · 3 nights · from Day 28
LisbonLisboa
Three nights in Lisbon provide a compact but relaxed stop before Ireland. Base around Chiado, Avenida da Liberdade or Príncipe Real in a 4 to 5-star hotel, avoiding overly steep access if mobility or luggage handling matters. Keep the arrival day free and leave one afternoon open.
- 28
Barcelona to Lisbon transfer and settle in
Leave the Barcelona hotel for Barcelona El Prat Airport with time for summer traffic, checked bags and airport security.
- 29
Baixa, Alfama and the classic Lisbon viewpoints
Start at Praça do Comércio, then walk through Baixa via Rua Augusta and the Arco da Rua Augusta. Go early before the busiest part of the day.
Photo: Filipe Almeida, CC0, Wikimedia Commons
Signature place
Praça do Comércio
Lisbon's grand riverfront square, best used as the starting point for a Baixa and Alfama walk.
Photo: Filipe Almeida, CC0, Wikimedia Commons
Signature place
Lisbon Cathedral
The city's Romanesque cathedral, on the climb between Baixa and Alfama.
Photo: Filipe Almeida, CC0, Wikimedia Commons
Signature place
Miradouro das Portas do Sol
A broad Alfama viewpoint over tiled roofs and the Tagus.
Photo: Filipe Almeida, CC0, Wikimedia Commons
Signature place
Jerónimos Monastery
Belém's Manueline monastery and the best major interior visit for this short stay.
Photo: Filipe Almeida, CC0, Wikimedia Commons
Signature place
Belém Tower
A riverside landmark best viewed early, before the hottest and busiest part of the day.
Photo: Filipe Almeida, CC0, Wikimedia Commons
Day 28
Barcelona to Lisbon transfer and settle in
- morningLeave the Barcelona hotel for Barcelona El Prat Airport with time for summer traffic, checked bags and airport security.LinkMap
- afternoonTake the confirmed Barcelona to Lisbon flight. 2027 flight times, airline and fare conditions remain confirmation_required.LinkMap
- afternoonFrom Lisbon Airport, use the official taxi rank for the easiest luggage transfer to a central hotel. Metro suits light luggage and an easy station connection.Map
- eveningCheck in, rest and take only a short orientation walk around Praça do Comércio and the Tagus if energy allows.Map
Fly Barcelona to Lisbon, then use an official airport taxi or Metro only if the hotel connection is simple. Allow about 20 to 45 minutes from Lisbon Airport to Chiado or Avenida da Liberdade. No fixed touring today. Relevant transport legs: 19, 20 and 21.
DinnerTaberna da Rua das Flores, Portuguese small plates, $$restaurant
In Chiado, it is a good first-night choice for sharing Portuguese dishes without committing to a long formal dinner after a flight.
Book directly with the restaurant if reservations are released; otherwise arrive early and confirm current walk-in arrangements.
- OrSolar dos Presuntos, Portuguese seafood and meat dishes, $$$. A more substantial, classic Lisbon dinner near Avenida da Liberdade.
- OrTime Out Market Lisboa, Portuguese and international food hall, $ to $$. Flexible timing and plenty of choice if the flight arrives late or energy is low.
Key decision
Take a taxi rather than Metro if carrying full-size cases
Lisbon's hills, cobbles and station access can turn a cheap transfer into a tiring first task. The Metro is worthwhile only with a straightforward hotel connection and manageable luggage.
Photo: Filipe Almeida, CC0, Wikimedia Commons
Day 29
Baixa, Alfama and the classic Lisbon viewpoints
- morningStart at Praça do Comércio, then walk through Baixa via Rua Augusta and the Arco da Rua Augusta. Go early before the busiest part of the day.Map
- morningVisit Lisbon Cathedral, then continue uphill through Alfama at an unhurried pace. The route is cobbled and steep in places, so wear grippy shoes.Map
- afternoonPause at Miradouro das Portas do Sol and Miradouro de Santa Luzia for Tagus views, tiled façades and a break before more walking.Map
- afternoonKeep late afternoon open for a hotel rest, a tram ride only if queues are reasonable, or a relaxed wander in Mouraria. Do not treat Tram 28 as essential in peak summer crowds.Map
- eveningHear fado in Alfama or Mouraria after dinner if you want a cultural evening. Confirm the venue's current sitting times directly before relying on it.Map
DinnerSanto André, Portuguese and fado dinner, $$$fado restaurant
It fits an Alfama day and gives the evening a distinctly Lisbon finish without needing another cross-city transfer.
Book directly with the restaurant and confirm whether fado is scheduled for the chosen evening.
- OrClube de Fado, Portuguese and fado dinner, $$$$. A more formal fado option in Alfama for a longer special-occasion meal.
- OrCervejaria Ramiro, Portuguese seafood, $$ to $$$. A lively seafood alternative if fado feels too structured; go early or confirm its current queue and booking policy.
Key decision
Choose viewpoints and Alfama over a packed monument list
This is the most enjoyable way to experience Lisbon's historic core in summer. It leaves time for shade, a drink, uneven streets and a weather-led change of plan.
Photo: Filipe Almeida, CC0, Wikimedia Commons
Day 30
Belém, Chiado and an open final mainland afternoon
- morningTravel to Belém early for Jerónimos Monastery. Check the official visitor information and any timed-entry process before this date, as 2027 arrangements are confirmation_required.Map
- morningWalk through Belém to the Monument to the Discoveries and Belém Tower. Treat tower entry as optional, as queues and operating arrangements can change.Map
- afternoonHave a pastel de nata at Pastéis de Belém, then return to Chiado for slower browsing around Livraria Bertrand and nearby streets.Map
- afternoonKeep the final afternoon deliberately free. Good low-key options are the Museu Nacional do Azulejo if you want a museum, or Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara for sunset if the weather is clear.Map
- eveningPack for the Dublin flight, confirm airline baggage limits and ask the hotel to order a licensed taxi if you have an early airport departure on Day 31.Map
DinnerBelcanto, Contemporary Portuguese tasting menu, $$$$fine-dining restaurant
A polished final mainland dinner in Chiado, close to the recommended hotel area and appropriate if you want one planned celebratory meal.
Reserve directly through the restaurant's official website well ahead once 2027 travel dates are firm.
- OrTaberna Sal Grosso, Portuguese small plates, $$. A relaxed, good-value Portuguese option near Santa Apolónia; book ahead if its official channels open bookings.
- OrO Frade, Alentejo Portuguese, $$$. A more local-feeling dinner focused on Alentejo cooking, suitable for a final night without tasting-menu formality.
Key decision
Keep the afternoon uncommitted
Belém can run longer than expected in summer, and this protected time gives you room for heat, queues, shopping, laundry, packing or a museum if the weather changes.
Photo: Filipe Almeida, CC0, Wikimedia Commons
A table worth planning around · Day 28
Taberna da Rua das Flores
Portuguese small plates · $$
In Chiado, it is a good first-night choice for sharing Portuguese dishes without committing to a long formal dinner after a flight.
Book directly with the restaurant if reservations are released; otherwise arrive early and confirm current walk-in arrangements.
Photo: Filipe Almeida, CC0, Wikimedia Commons
preferred
Bairro Alto Hotel
5 star · rating not yet checked
Praça Luís de Camões 2, 1200-243 Lisbon, Portugal
Praça Luís de Camões 2, 1200-243 Lisboa, Portugal
A strong fit for a short final mainland stay: on the Chiado and Bairro Alto edge, with easy walks to Baixa, the riverfront, viewpoints and a wide choice of restaurants. It avoids the steepest parts of Alfama while still feeling central.
Ask the hotel to confirm the booked room category, lift access, airport-taxi arrangement and whether it will accept luggage before check-in or after check-out. 2027 rates and availability are confirmation_required.
Not yet checked
Photo: Filipe Almeida, CC0, Wikimedia Commons
alternative
The One Palácio da Anunciada
5 star · rating not yet checked
Rua das Portas de Santo Antão 112-134, 1150-268 Lisbon, Portugal
Rua das Portas de Santo Antão 112-134, 1150-268 Lisboa, Portugal
Near Restauradores and Avenida da Liberdade, this is a practical luxury base with easier taxi access than the narrowest historic lanes. It is within walking distance of Baixa and Chiado, with good public transport for Belém connections.
Confirm luggage storage, vehicle drop-off point and whether the selected room faces a quiet side of the property. 2027 availability and conditions are confirmation_required.
Not yet checked
Chapter 08 · 5 nights · from Day 31
DublinBaile Átha Cliath
Finish with five nights in Dublin during the warmer part of the Irish summer. Stay centrally around Merrion Square, St Stephen's Green, The Liberties or Docklands, depending on hotel preference. Arrival day is only airport transfer and check-in; retain one half-day for weather-led plans such as Howth or a museum.
- 31
Lisbon to Dublin transfer and settling in
At Dublin Airport, take Dublin Express to a city-centre stop near the hotel, then walk the final section. Allow about 45 to 70 minutes door to door, depending on traffic and hotel location.
- 32
Georgian Dublin, Trinity and Temple Bar
Start at Merrion Square and view the Georgian streetscape, Oscar Wilde Memorial and the National Gallery of Ireland exterior. The square is about a 10 to 15-minute walk from St Stephen's Green.
Signature place
Trinity College Dublin and the Book of Kells Experience
Key literary and historic stop; reserve a timed entry if the Book of Kells is essential.
Signature place
Marsh's Library
Early-18th-century library beside St Patrick's Cathedral, well suited to the literary focus.
Signature place
National Gallery of Ireland
Central art museum near Merrion Square and a dependable wet-weather option.
Signature place
Howth Harbour and Cliff Path
Easy coastal escape by DART, best saved for a dry, less windy day.
Signature place
EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum
Indoor alternative near Connolly Station if Howth weather is poor.
Day 31
Lisbon to Dublin transfer and settling in
- afternoonAt Dublin Airport, take Dublin Express to a city-centre stop near the hotel, then walk the final section. Allow about 45 to 70 minutes door to door, depending on traffic and hotel location.Map
- afternoonAlternative: use the official taxi rank outside the terminal. A central hotel transfer usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic.Map
- eveningCheck in, confirm breakfast, luggage storage and the easiest airport route with reception. Keep the first evening close to the hotel after the Lisbon flight.
- eveningTake a gentle orientation walk around St Stephen's Green and Grafton Street if energy and weather allow. It is a flat, central introduction to Dublin without committing to a timed attraction.Map
Fly Lisbon to Dublin, then use an airport coach or taxi to the central hotel. Keep the day free after check-in.
DinnerThe Winding Stair, Modern Irish, Mid to upperRestaurant
Near the River Liffey and central neighbourhoods, with an Irish-led menu suited to a first evening without travelling far.
Book directly through the restaurant website when the late-July booking calendar opens.
- OrThe Woollen Mills, Irish and European, Mid-range. More casual riverside option in the same central area.
- OrChapter One, Contemporary Irish, High-end. A special-occasion choice if you want the strongest formal dinner of the Dublin stay.
Key decision
Coach versus taxi from Dublin Airport
Choose Dublin Express if its stop is within a short walk of the hotel and you are arriving in daylight. Choose an official taxi for late arrival, heavy cases or rain, as it avoids a final walk on uneven footpaths.
Day 32
Georgian Dublin, Trinity and Temple Bar
- morningStart at Merrion Square and view the Georgian streetscape, Oscar Wilde Memorial and the National Gallery of Ireland exterior. The square is about a 10 to 15-minute walk from St Stephen's Green.Map
- morningVisit the National Gallery of Ireland. Use the collection as a weather-proof cultural stop and confirm any ticketed exhibition requirements directly before the visit.Map
- afternoonWalk 8 to 12 minutes to Trinity College Dublin. Pre-book the Book of Kells Experience if it is a priority, as late-July demand is likely to be high. Entry arrangements for 2027 are confirmation_required.Map
- eveningCross via Grafton Street to the Creative Quarter, then continue to Temple Bar before dinner. Treat Temple Bar as a short walk-through rather than the main evening base if you prefer less noise.Map
DinnerEtto, Italian-influenced seasonal European, UpperRestaurant
A compact, well-located restaurant near Merrion Square and St Stephen's Green, making it easy after a walking day.
Reserve directly through the restaurant website.
- OrTang Citygold, Middle Eastern and Mediterranean, Lower to mid-range. Good-value casual dinner near Dawson Street.
- OrPatrick Guilbaud, French fine dining, High-end. A formal Dublin dinner close to Merrion Square for a celebratory night.
Key decision
Book of Kells or National Gallery first
Book the Book of Kells for a timed morning or early-afternoon slot if it is non-negotiable. Keep the National Gallery flexible because it is the better rain-day and queue-avoidance option.
Day 33
Literary Dublin and The Liberties
- morningBegin at St Patrick's Cathedral. Allow about an hour, then walk roughly 5 minutes to Marsh's Library, one of Dublin's key literary and scholarly interiors. Check visiting arrangements closer to travel because 2027 details are confirmation_required.Map
- morningVisit Marsh's Library for its early-18th-century setting and historic collections. It is a stronger fit than adding another large museum if the focus is literary Dublin.Map
- afternoonWalk about 10 minutes into The Liberties for the Irish Whiskey Museum alternative or a Guinness Storehouse visit. Pre-book Guinness if chosen, especially for a late-afternoon Gravity Bar slot.Map
- eveningFinish with a relaxed walk through Thomas Street and the streets around Christchurch. This leaves room for a pub stop, shopping or an early return to the hotel.Map
DinnerThe Fumbally, Seasonal Irish cafe and bakery, Lower to mid-rangeCafe restaurant
In The Liberties, it suits a low-key meal after St Patrick's Cathedral and Marsh's Library.
Walk in; confirm current evening service directly before travel.
- OrL. Mulligan Grocer, Irish pub food, Mid-range. Well-regarded neighbourhood pub meal in Stoneybatter, best reached by taxi or bus from The Liberties.
- OrThe Michelin Guide restaurant at The Shelbourne, Contemporary Irish, High-end. A more polished special-occasion alternative near St Stephen's Green; confirm the current restaurant and booking details with the hotel.
Key decision
Guinness Storehouse versus a slower Liberties afternoon
Choose Guinness if the iconic brewery experience and city views matter most. Skip it for a quieter literary and neighbourhood day, as the Storehouse can take several hours and is busiest in summer.
Day 34
Howth coastal day with a weather-led fallback
- morningTake DART from central Dublin to Howth. From Pearse Station, allow about 30 to 35 minutes on the train; confirm the 2027 timetable and any works through Irish Rail before leaving.Map
- morningWalk Howth Harbour and the East Pier, then choose a short coastal section rather than committing to the full cliff loop. The harbour is immediately beside the station; cliff paths are weather-dependent.Map
- afternoonIf conditions are dry and visibility is good, walk a section of the Howth Cliff Path Loop. Wear grippy shoes and turn back if wind, rain or low cloud makes the exposed path unpleasant.Map
- afternoonIf rain is persistent, return to Dublin for EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum at CHQ. It is a short walk from Connolly Station and makes a useful indoor replacement.Map
DinnerAqua Restaurant, Seafood and modern Irish, UpperRestaurant
In Howth Harbour, it makes the coastal day feel complete without returning to central Dublin before dinner.
Reserve directly through the restaurant website.
- OrBeshoff Bros Howth, Fish and chips, Lower to mid-range. Simple harbour-side option for a quicker, less expensive meal.
- OrThe Oar House, Seafood and Irish, Mid-range. A relaxed Howth Harbour option with a broader menu than takeaway.
Key decision
Coastal walk versus indoor Dublin
Use the Howth plan only in settled conditions. Dublin's summer rain and wind can make exposed paths slippery, so switch early to EPIC rather than trying to push through poor weather.
Day 35
Museum choice, Phoenix Park and a free final afternoon
- morningChoose one museum rather than trying to cover several: the National Museum of Ireland, Archaeology for Irish history, or the Hugh Lane Gallery for art. Both are central and practical in wet weather.Map
- afternoonWalk the River Liffey quays from O'Connell Bridge to the Ha'penny Bridge, then through the north side streets. This gives a final view of central Dublin without timed commitments.Map
- afternoonKeep the later afternoon deliberately open for last shopping, a hotel rest, a second visit to a favourite neighbourhood, or a weather-led trip to Phoenix Park. Central Dublin to the park entrance is roughly 15 to 25 minutes by taxi, depending on traffic.Map
- eveningIf choosing Phoenix Park, visit the Visitor Centre area and walk only as far as energy allows. Do not build the day around seeing deer, as they are wild and sightings are not guaranteed.Map
DinnerDavy Byrne's, Traditional Irish pub food, Mid-rangeHistoric pub
A literary Dublin choice associated with James Joyce's Ulysses, close to Grafton Street and useful for a relaxed final evening.
Walk in or check directly for current table arrangements.
- OrDublin Pizza Company, Pizza, Lower to mid-range. Easy, informal option near Aungier Street if you want an early night before departure.
- OrThe Shelbourne Hotel dining rooms, Irish and international, High-end. Convenient polished dining near St Stephen's Green; confirm the current restaurant offering directly with the hotel.
Key decision
Protect the final afternoon
Leave this time unscheduled. It gives the trip a weather buffer, space for purchases and packing, and avoids a rushed final evening before the airport transfer.
Day 36
Dublin departure day
- morningConfirm the long-haul airline's check-in and bag-drop guidance after tickets are issued. As a planning rule, aim to leave the hotel about 4 hours before an international departure, then adjust to the airline's written advice.Map
- afternoonOption 1: take Dublin Express from its central stop. Allow about 45 to 70 minutes from hotel door to terminal, including the walk to the stop, traffic and coach loading.Map
- afternoonOption 2: take an official taxi arranged by reception or from a licensed rank. Allow about 30 to 60 minutes from central Dublin, with extra time in peak traffic or rain.Map
- morningCheck out by the hotel's confirmed time. Ask before arrival whether same-day luggage storage is available after check-out. If accepted, leave bags with reception, collect them at least 20 minutes before the planned departure from the hotel, then go directly to the airport.
Check out, leave bags with the hotel if needed, then travel to Dublin Airport by coach or official taxi. No activities or bookings are planned.
DinnerHotel breakfast, Hotel breakfast, Included or hotel-pricedHotel dining
Keeps departure morning simple and leaves enough margin for luggage collection and the airport journey.
Confirm whether breakfast is included with the chosen rate.
- OrHatch & Sons, Irish breakfast and cafe food, Mid-range. Central option only if flight timing allows and bags remain stored at the hotel.
- OrThe Shelbourne breakfast, Hotel breakfast, High-end. A more formal option only if staying nearby and the flight departs later.
Key decision
Airport coach versus taxi
Use Dublin Express if the hotel is close to its stop and you have a comfortable timing buffer. Use a taxi for an early flight, heavy luggage, rain or a hotel location requiring a longer walk to the coach.
A table worth planning around · Day 31
The Winding Stair
Modern Irish · Mid to upper
Near the River Liffey and central neighbourhoods, with an Irish-led menu suited to a first evening without travelling far.
Book directly through the restaurant website when the late-July booking calendar opens.
preferred
The Merrion
5-star · rating not yet checked
Upper Merrion Street, Dublin 2, D02 KF79, Ireland
A strong fit for the cultural focus: beside Merrion Square, near the National Gallery of Ireland, Trinity College and St Stephen's Green. The location is calmer than Temple Bar while still walkable to central dining and museums.
Confirm 2027 room rates, air-conditioning preference, accessible room needs, breakfast inclusion and whether reception will accept luggage before check-in and after check-out.
Not yet checked
alternative
The Shelbourne
5-star · rating not yet checked
27 St Stephen's Green, Dublin 2, D02 K224, Ireland
Directly opposite St Stephen's Green, with easy walks to Grafton Street, Merrion Square and Trinity College. It is a practical high-comfort base for a final five nights and for taxi collection on departure morning.
Confirm 2027 room configuration, current dining offerings, airport-transfer assistance and luggage holding before and after check-out directly with the hotel.
Not yet checked
Getting between bases
Booking systems and booking windows. Haydi links and reminds. You book.
Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport (SYD) to Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO), international flight, Planning target: roughly 23 to 30 hours including one connection, confirmation_required.
Airline and routing to be selected · Airline official website or accredited travel agent · A$7,000 · Planning allowance for two adults in premium economy or a well-priced business-class sale is not assumed; final cabin and fare are confirmation_required.
planning target
Plan an open-jaw itinerary into Rome and home from Dublin. Select a through-ticket with checked baggage through to Rome where possible. Exact 2027 routings, connection rules and fares are confirmation_required.
- Airline schedules and sale inventory: opens 330 days before, that is 19/07/2026
- For two adults on a long-haul itinerary, choose seats during airline-managed selection when available. Confirm the checked-baggage allowance on every operating carrier, especially where an itinerary includes a European partner airline.
- Fare conditions depend on the selected airline and fare family. Check change, cancellation, no-show and refund rules before payment.
- If it is cancelled: Ask the ticketing airline for rerouting under its disruption policy. Retain travel insurance details and allow a connection buffer if separate tickets are considered.
Not yet checked
Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO) to Central Rome hotel, train and walk or taxi, Planning target: about 32 minutes by Leonardo express to Roma Termini, plus local transfer; confirmation_required for 2027 operations.
Trenitalia or licensed Rome taxi · Trenitalia official website/app for Leonardo express; taxi rank for licensed taxi · A$70 · Planning allowance for two adults using airport rail and a short local taxi, or one official airport taxi depending on hotel location.
confirmation required
On arrival day, use the non-stop Leonardo express from Fiumicino Aeroporto to Roma Termini if the hotel is convenient to Termini or a short taxi ride away. Otherwise use the official taxi rank only and confirm the fixed-fare conditions displayed by the City of Rome.
- Leonardo express rail ticket: opens 0 days before
- Leonardo express has space for standard luggage but no seat reservation is normally needed. For a taxi, use the official rank, not unsolicited drivers in the terminal.
- Rail and taxi conditions depend on the product used. Check the ticket terms at purchase.
- If it is cancelled: Use an official taxi from the airport rank or arrange a hotel-approved private transfer directly with the hotel.
Not yet checked
Central Rome hotel to Roma Termini, taxi or local public transport, Planning target: 15 to 35 minutes depending on hotel location and traffic.
Licensed Rome taxi or ATAC · Taxi rank or ATAC official channels · A$35 · Planning allowance for two adults travelling from a central hotel to Roma Termini.
planning target
Leave the hotel with sufficient margin for station access, luggage handling and platform confirmation. A taxi is the simpler option with larger luggage.
- Local transport ticket: opens 0 days before
- Use a luggage-friendly vehicle if taking a taxi. Validate any local paper transit ticket where required.
- Local ticket and taxi conditions apply at purchase or use.
- If it is cancelled: Ask the hotel to arrange a licensed taxi or walk to the nearest taxi rank.
Not yet checked
Roma Termini to Firenze Santa Maria Novella, high-speed train, Planning target: about 1 hour 30 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes on direct high-speed services.
Trenitalia Frecce or Italo · Trenitalia official website/app or Italo official website/app · A$180 · Planning allowance for two adults in standard or premium class on a direct high-speed service.
confirmation required
Choose a direct high-speed service from Roma Termini to Firenze Santa Maria Novella. Book a flexible fare or a fare allowing changes if onward plans are still movable. Exact 2027 sales dates, trains and fares are confirmation_required.
- Trenitalia Frecce tickets: opens 120 days before, that is 21/12/2026
- Italo tickets: opens 180 days before, that is 21/12/2026
- Reserve adjacent seats. Store larger cases in rack areas at the end of the carriage or overhead only if safely manageable. Keep valuables and passports with you.
- Conditions differ by operator and fare. Review refund and exchange limits before booking, especially for discounted fares.
- If it is cancelled: Use the other high-speed operator, take the next available service, or ask the original operator about re-accommodation.
Not yet checked
Firenze Santa Maria Novella to Central Florence hotel, walk or taxi, Planning target: 5 to 20 minutes.
Licensed Florence taxi · Taxi rank or hotel-arranged taxi · A$25 · Planning allowance for two adults from Firenze Santa Maria Novella to a central 4 to 5-star hotel.
planning target
Walk if the hotel is within the pedestrian-friendly historic centre and luggage is manageable. Otherwise use the station taxi rank or ask the hotel to arrange a licensed taxi.
- Local taxi: opens 0 days before
- The historic centre has restricted traffic zones, so confirm the hotel drop-off point in advance.
- Taxi fare conditions apply at the time of travel.
- If it is cancelled: Walk, use the official taxi rank, or request hotel assistance.
Not yet checked
Central Florence hotel to Firenze Santa Maria Novella, walk or taxi, Planning target: 5 to 20 minutes.
Licensed Florence taxi · Taxi rank or hotel-arranged taxi · A$25 · Planning allowance for two adults from a central hotel to Firenze Santa Maria Novella.
planning target
Allow time for hotel luggage collection and access through the historic centre. Use a taxi if cases make the walk impractical.
- Local taxi: opens 0 days before
- Confirm any restricted traffic zone access with the hotel if a vehicle is used.
- Taxi fare conditions apply at the time of travel.
- If it is cancelled: Walk to the station or request the hotel to call a licensed taxi.
Not yet checked
Firenze Santa Maria Novella to Venezia Santa Lucia, high-speed train, Planning target: about 2 hours on a direct high-speed train.
Trenitalia Frecce or Italo · Trenitalia official website/app or Italo official website/app · A$180 · Planning allowance for two adults in standard or premium class.
confirmation required
Book a direct high-speed train to Venezia Santa Lucia, not Venezia Mestre, so the train reaches the island. Exact 2027 service patterns, sale dates and prices are confirmation_required.
- Trenitalia Frecce tickets: opens 120 days before, that is 25/12/2026
- Italo tickets: opens 180 days before, that is 25/12/2026
- Reserve adjacent seats and use end-of-carriage luggage racks for large cases. Venice Santa Lucia is the practical arrival station for a hotel in Venice proper.
- Rules depend on operator and fare class. Check exchange and refund conditions before booking.
- If it is cancelled: Use the competing rail operator, take the next available train, or seek operator re-accommodation.
Not yet checked
Venezia Santa Lucia to Venice hotel, walk or vaporetto waterbus, Planning target: 10 to 35 minutes depending on hotel location and waterbus route.
ACTV · ACTV official ticket channels or ticket machines · A$35 · Planning allowance for two adults using vaporetto tickets and short walks; a private water taxi would cost more and needs separate confirmation.
planning target
Choose the route based on the hotel pier and luggage. A short walk may be easiest near Santa Lucia; otherwise use the ACTV vaporetto network and verify the nearest stop with the hotel.
- Vaporetto ticket or travel pass: opens 0 days before
- Venice bridges have steps. For heavy luggage, prioritise a hotel with a nearby vaporetto stop and ask about porter or water-taxi arrangements.
- ACTV ticket conditions apply at purchase. Validate tickets where required.
- If it is cancelled: Walk if practical, use an alternate ACTV route, or arrange a licensed water taxi through the hotel.
Checked 30/10/2026source
Venice hotel to Venezia Santa Lucia, walk or vaporetto waterbus, Planning target: 10 to 35 minutes.
ACTV · ACTV official ticket channels or ticket machines · A$35 · Planning allowance for two adults using ACTV services.
planning target
Confirm the closest vaporetto stop and allow extra time for canals, bridges and luggage. Travel to Venezia Santa Lucia for the Switzerland-bound train.
- Vaporetto ticket or travel pass: opens 0 days before
- Avoid tight rail connections because boarding with luggage can take time. A hotel near a vaporetto stop reduces transfer stress.
- ACTV ticket conditions apply at purchase.
- If it is cancelled: Take an alternate waterbus route, walk if suitable, or arrange a hotel-booked licensed water taxi.
Checked 30/10/2026source
Venezia Santa Lucia to Zürich Hauptbahnhof, international rail, Planning target: about 6 to 8 hours, usually with one connection; confirmation_required.
Trenitalia and Swiss Federal Railways · Trenitalia official website/app or SBB official website/app · A$380 · Planning allowance for two adults on a flexible or semi-flexible international rail itinerary.
confirmation required
Plan for a Venice to Zurich itinerary, commonly via Milan, using official operator channels. Avoid a short connection in Milan because cross-border platform changes and luggage add time. Exact 2027 routing, reservation requirements and sales timing are confirmation_required.
- International rail tickets: opens 120 days before, that is 27/02/2027
- Reserve adjacent seats where offered. Keep passports accessible for possible border checks. Large luggage should be stored in designated areas and kept in view where possible.
- Refund and exchange conditions depend on each operator and fare. Check whether the itinerary is issued as one protected ticket before payment.
- If it is cancelled: Ask the ticketing operator to rebook the disrupted segment. If cross-border services are heavily disrupted, an overnight stop in Milan may be the safest contingency.
Not yet checked
Zürich Hauptbahnhof to Central Zurich hotel, walk, tram or taxi, Planning target: 5 to 25 minutes.
Zürcher Verkehrsverbund or licensed taxi · ZVV official ticket channels or taxi rank · A$30 · Planning allowance for two adults using local transport or a short taxi.
planning target
Use tram or walk for a central hotel, or take a taxi if luggage is substantial. Buy the correct Zurich zone ticket through official ZVV channels if using public transport.
- Local public transport ticket: opens 0 days before
- Trams have low-floor access on many routes but luggage space can be limited in peak periods.
- Local ticket conditions apply at purchase.
- If it is cancelled: Use a different tram route, walk or take a licensed taxi.
Not yet checked
Central Zurich hotel to Zürich Hauptbahnhof, walk, tram or taxi, Planning target: 5 to 25 minutes.
Zürcher Verkehrsverbund or licensed taxi · ZVV official ticket channels or taxi rank · A$30 · Planning allowance for two adults using local transport or a short taxi.
planning target
Allow time for a local transfer, station wayfinding and international train boarding. Use tram or taxi according to hotel location and luggage.
- Local public transport ticket: opens 0 days before
- Keep passports accessible for the international rail journey.
- Local ticket conditions apply at purchase.
- If it is cancelled: Use an alternate tram, walk or take a licensed taxi.
Not yet checked
Zürich Hauptbahnhof to Paris Gare de Lyon, international high-speed train, Planning target: about 4 hours 5 minutes on a direct service.
TGV Lyria · SNCF Connect or TGV Lyria official website · A$360 · Planning allowance for two adults in standard or first class, with a flexible fare preference.
confirmation required
Book a direct Zurich to Paris Gare de Lyon TGV Lyria service where available. Exact 2027 timetable, fares, ticket-release dates and seat choices are confirmation_required.
- TGV Lyria tickets: opens 180 days before, that is 02/01/2027
- Reserve adjacent seats. Keep passports accessible and use designated luggage racks for larger suitcases. Arrive early enough to find the correct coach and luggage space.
- Refundability and exchange rules vary by fare. Check terms before payment, particularly for promotional fares.
- If it is cancelled: Use a later TGV Lyria service or ask SNCF/TGV Lyria for re-accommodation. If needed, explore a route via Basel only after operator advice.
Not yet checked
Paris Gare de Lyon to Central Paris hotel, taxi or Paris Metro/RER, Planning target: 15 to 45 minutes depending on hotel location and traffic.
G7 Taxi or RATP · Official taxi rank, G7 official app, or RATP ticket channels · A$55 · Planning allowance for two adults taking a central-station taxi or equivalent local connection.
planning target
With long-haul luggage, use the official taxi rank or a hotel-arranged licensed taxi. Metro or RER is practical only if the hotel is close to a direct station connection and luggage is manageable.
- Local transport ticket: opens 0 days before
- Avoid unlicensed approaches at the station. Paris Metro stations may have stairs and narrow gates.
- Taxi and local transit conditions apply at use or purchase.
- If it is cancelled: Use another official taxi rank, G7 booking, or RATP journey planner for an alternate public transport route.
Not yet checked
Central Paris hotel to Paris Gare de Lyon, taxi or Paris Metro/RER, Planning target: 15 to 45 minutes.
G7 Taxi or RATP · Official taxi rank, G7 official app, or RATP ticket channels · A$55 · Planning allowance for two adults travelling from a central hotel to Gare de Lyon.
planning target
Travel to Gare de Lyon with enough time for station navigation and high-speed train boarding. Taxi is simpler with larger cases; use official services only.
- Local transport ticket: opens 0 days before
- Allow additional time if using Metro because some stations require stairs or longer internal walks.
- Taxi and local transit conditions apply at use or purchase.
- If it is cancelled: Use an alternate official taxi, G7 booking or an RATP route.
Not yet checked
Paris Gare de Lyon to Barcelona Sants, international high-speed train, Planning target: about 6 hours 45 minutes on a direct service, confirmation_required.
SNCF Voyageurs and Renfe · SNCF Connect or Renfe official website/app · A$420 · Planning allowance for two adults on a direct or sensible one-change international high-speed itinerary.
confirmation required
Book a direct Paris to Barcelona service if the 2027 timetable retains one, otherwise choose the most reliable official itinerary with a sensible connection. Check whether the departure station is Gare de Lyon when schedules publish. Arrive early because international high-speed services may have access controls.
- International high-speed rail tickets: opens 180 days before, that is 08/01/2027
- Reserve adjacent seats and use luggage racks near the coach entrance or centre. Keep passports accessible for cross-border travel.
- Fare conditions differ between SNCF and Renfe products. Review change and refund rules before booking.
- If it is cancelled: Ask the ticketing operator for re-accommodation. If rail disruption is prolonged, a same-day flight is a practical but separate contingency.
Not yet checked
Barcelona Sants to Central Barcelona hotel, taxi, Metro or suburban rail, Planning target: 10 to 35 minutes.
TMB, Rodalies de Catalunya or licensed taxi · TMB official channels, Rodalies official channels or taxi rank · A$35 · Planning allowance for two adults using a local connection from Barcelona Sants.
planning target
Take a taxi if luggage is substantial or use local public transport if the hotel has a direct, easy connection. Confirm the hotel's nearest accessible station before travel.
- Local transport ticket: opens 0 days before
- Barcelona Metro can involve stairs and interchange walks. Taxis are usually the simpler transfer after a long rail journey.
- Local transport and taxi conditions apply at purchase or use.
- If it is cancelled: Use an official taxi rank or an alternative TMB/Rodalies route.
Not yet checked
Central Barcelona hotel to Barcelona El Prat Airport (BCN), taxi, Aerobús or rail, Planning target: 25 to 60 minutes depending on hotel location, terminal and traffic.
Aerobús, Rodalies de Catalunya or licensed taxi · Aerobús official website, Rodalies official channels or taxi rank · A$50 · Planning allowance for two adults travelling to Barcelona airport.
planning target
For a flight transfer with checked bags, use a licensed taxi or select Aerobús or rail only if the hotel has a straightforward connection. Confirm the departure terminal and airline check-in requirements after the 2027 flight is issued.
- Airport bus or local rail ticket: opens 0 days before
- Allow extra time for summer road traffic and airport queues. Keep cabin-bag liquid and battery rules in mind.
- Local transfer conditions apply at purchase or use; airline fare rules are separate.
- If it is cancelled: Use a licensed taxi or ask the hotel to arrange a car.
Checked 30/10/2026source
Barcelona El Prat Airport (BCN) to Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS), international flight, Planning target: about 2 hours in the air, plus airport processing; confirmation_required.
Airline to be selected · Airline official website · A$500 · Planning allowance for two adults on a non-stop economy flight with checked luggage, subject to 2027 fares.
confirmation required
Choose a non-stop Barcelona to Lisbon flight where available, preferably on one ticket with checked baggage included. Exact 2027 operators, frequencies, departure times and fares are confirmation_required.
- Airline schedules and sale inventory: opens 330 days before, that is 15/08/2026
- Confirm cabin and checked-bag allowance before payment because European economy fares vary. Seat selection rules depend on the airline and fare type.
- Airline fare rules apply. Review change, cancellation and no-show conditions before purchase.
- If it is cancelled: Request rerouting from the operating or ticketing airline. If a same-day arrival is important, consider a flight with an earlier departure rather than the final service of the day.
Checked 30/10/2026source
Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) to Central Lisbon hotel, metro or taxi, Planning target: 20 to 45 minutes depending on hotel location and traffic.
Metro Lisboa or licensed taxi · Metro Lisboa official ticket channels or official taxi rank · A$40 · Planning allowance for two adults using metro plus a short walk or a central taxi.
planning target
Use Metro only if the hotel has an easy station connection and luggage is manageable. Otherwise use the official airport taxi rank or a hotel-arranged licensed transfer. Do not accept unsolicited drivers.
- Metro ticket: opens 0 days before
- Lisbon has hills and cobblestones, so a taxi is usually easier for a 4 to 5-star hotel in Chiado, Príncipe Real or Avenida da Liberdade.
- Metro and taxi conditions apply at purchase or use.
- If it is cancelled: Take a licensed taxi from the official rank or arrange a hotel-approved transfer.
Not yet checked
Central Lisbon hotel to Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS), metro or taxi, Planning target: 20 to 45 minutes.
Metro Lisboa or licensed taxi · Metro Lisboa official ticket channels or official taxi rank · A$40 · Planning allowance for two adults travelling to Lisbon airport.
planning target
For the flight to Dublin, use a licensed taxi or Metro according to hotel access and luggage. Confirm airline terminal, baggage drop timing and security advice once the ticket is issued.
- Metro ticket: opens 0 days before
- Allow for traffic and airport queues. Taxi is recommended if departing early or carrying larger cases.
- Metro and taxi conditions apply at purchase or use; airline terms are separate.
- If it is cancelled: Use a licensed taxi or hotel-arranged car.
Not yet checked
Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) to Dublin Airport (DUB), international flight, Planning target: about 2 hours 50 minutes in the air, plus airport processing; confirmation_required.
Airline to be selected · Airline official website · A$600 · Planning allowance for two adults on a non-stop economy flight with checked luggage, subject to 2027 fares.
confirmation required
Book a non-stop Lisbon to Dublin service where available, with checked baggage and an arrival time that does not create pressure on the transfer day. Exact 2027 flights, timings and fares are confirmation_required.
- Airline schedules and sale inventory: opens 330 days before, that is 18/08/2026
- Check baggage allowance and cabin-bag dimensions for the selected fare. Keep passports and any entry documentation accessible.
- Rules are set by the airline and fare family. Check change, cancellation and no-show conditions before purchase.
- If it is cancelled: Ask the airline to reroute to Dublin. If the disruption requires an overnight stay, seek airline guidance on duty-of-care arrangements and use travel insurance as applicable.
Checked 30/10/2026source
Dublin Airport (DUB) to Central Dublin hotel, airport bus or taxi, Planning target: 30 to 60 minutes depending on traffic and hotel location.
Dublin Express, Aircoach or licensed taxi · Dublin Express official website, Aircoach official website, or official taxi rank · A$55 · Planning allowance for two adults using an airport coach or central taxi.
planning target
Use an airport coach if its city stop is close to the hotel, otherwise take a taxi from the official rank. Confirm hotel access because some central streets have traffic restrictions or short walking sections.
- Airport coach ticket: opens 0 days before
- Airport coaches have luggage holds. A taxi is easier if arriving late, carrying large cases or staying away from a coach stop.
- Coach ticket conditions depend on the operator. Taxi conditions apply at use.
- If it is cancelled: Use the alternative airport coach operator or the official taxi rank.
Checked 30/10/2026source
Central Dublin hotel to Dublin Airport (DUB), airport bus or taxi, Planning target: 30 to 60 minutes depending on traffic and hotel location.
Dublin Express, Aircoach or licensed taxi · Dublin Express official website, Aircoach official website, or official taxi rank · A$55 · Planning allowance for two adults travelling from central Dublin to Dublin Airport.
planning target
Travel to Dublin Airport according to the confirmed long-haul departure terminal and check-in requirement. A taxi is recommended for an early departure or significant luggage; otherwise use an airport coach with a stop near the hotel.
- Airport coach ticket: opens 0 days before
- Allow generous time for summer traffic, airport queues and tax-refund procedures if relevant. Verify baggage allowance through to Sydney.
- Coach and taxi terms apply at use; long-haul airline ticket conditions are separate.
- If it is cancelled: Use the alternate airport coach operator or take a licensed taxi.
Checked 30/10/2026source
Typical weather
Typical for June, based on long-term averages, not a forecast
Typically 16°C to 28°C
Rome is typically warm to hot in June, with long daylight and occasional thunderstorms. These are long-term climate normals, not a forecast.
34 mm rainfall · about 5 wet days in the month
What to wear
- • Light, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes with grip for cobbles.
- • Bring a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and a refillable water bottle.
- • Pack a light layer and compact rain shell for evening showers or air-conditioned museums.
- • Book outdoor archaeological sites and Vatican Museums early to reduce heat and queues.
- • Keep the middle of the day for lunch, hotel rest or indoor museums.
- • Carry water and check same-day official notices for heat, security controls and altered access.
Luggage plan
Rome hotel to Florence hotel
Hand in by Ask the Rome hotel by Day 3 whether it can arrange a tracked luggage service. Hand bags in by the hotel's stated cut-off on Day 5 for Day 6 arrival. on Day 5. Expected Day 6.
Confirm acceptance with the hotel. If the bag service is unavailable, take the bags on the train. Use the end-of-carriage luggage racks and keep passports, medication and valuables in a day bag.
Typical weather
Typical for June, based on long-term averages, not a forecast
Typically 15°C to 27°C
Florence in June is typically warm to hot by afternoon, with strong sun and occasional showers or thunderstorms. These are long-term climate averages, not a forecast.
60 mm rainfall · about 7 wet days in the month
What to wear
- • Wear breathable clothing, sun protection and comfortable closed shoes for cobblestones.
- • Carry a light rain layer for short showers and a light layer for air-conditioned museums.
- • Pack clothing that covers shoulders and knees for church visits.
- • Book the Uffizi and Accademia for morning entries, then use shaded lanes, museums or a hotel break through the hottest part of the afternoon.
- • Carry water and avoid scheduling both a Duomo climb and Piazzale Michelangelo uphill walk in the same heat-heavy period.
- • Recheck museum entry rules, church dress requirements and any heat alerts shortly before travel.
Luggage plan
Rome hotel, Rome to Florence hotel, Florence
Hand in by No separate forwarding is planned. Keep luggage with you for the direct Rome to Florence rail journey and confirm hotel early bag-drop before travel. on Day 6. Expected Day 6.
Confirm acceptance with the hotel. If early check-in is unavailable, leave bags with the Florence hotel only after it confirms storage. Keep passports, medication, valuables and one change of clothes in a day bag.
Florence hotel, Florence to Venice hotel, Venice
Hand in by No forwarding is planned. Take bags on the direct high-speed train to Venezia Santa Lucia; ask the Venice hotel to confirm early bag acceptance before leaving Florence. on Day 10. Expected Day 10.
Confirm acceptance with the hotel. If the bag service is full, take the bags on the train. Use the rear carriage near the luggage rack and keep valuables in a day bag.
Typical weather
Typical for June, based on long-term averages, not a forecast
Typically 15°C to 25°C
June is typically warm and humid in Venice, with long daylight hours but a real chance of showers or thunderstorms. It is a climate normal, not a forecast.
78 mm rainfall · about 8 wet days in the month
What to wear
- • Wear breathable layers, sun protection and comfortable shoes with grip for wet paving and bridge steps.
- • Carry a compact rain jacket or small umbrella.
- • Bring modest shoulder and knee coverage for basilicas.
- • Start St Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace early to avoid heat and peak crowds.
- • Keep a compact rain jacket and use museums, churches or a long lunch as a thunderstorm fallback.
- • Check official Venice high-water and weather notices closer to travel, as short-term conditions can affect low-lying routes and water transport.
Luggage plan
Central Florence hotel, Florence to Venice hotel, Venice historic centre
Hand in by No forwarding is planned between Florence and Venice. Keep luggage with you for the direct rail journey and hand bags to the Venice hotel at check-in. on Day 10. Expected Day 10.
Confirm acceptance with the hotel. Take the bags on the train. Use the end-of-carriage luggage rack, keep valuables in a day bag, and choose a hotel near a vaporetto stop to reduce bridge crossings.
Typical weather
Typical for June, based on long-term averages, not a forecast
Typically 13°C to 23°C
June is early summer in Zurich: usually mild to warm by day, cooler beside the lake and in the evening, with regular rain or thunderstorms possible. The stay runs from 27/06/2027 to 30/06/2027, so June normals are the relevant planning basis.
128 mm rainfall · about 12 wet days in the month
What to wear
- • Pack a light waterproof jacket and a compact umbrella.
- • Wear comfortable shoes with grip for cobbles and possible wet paths.
- • Take a warm mid-layer for Lake Zurich evenings and Mount Rigi.
- • Start outdoor old-town and lake walks in the morning, then keep museums as a wet-weather fallback.
- • Check MeteoSwiss and the Rigi operator on Day 16 before committing to the Alpine excursion.
- • Carry a compact rain jacket on every day; mountain temperatures and exposure can be markedly cooler than central Zurich.
Luggage plan
Venice hotel, Venice to Baur au Lac, Talstrasse 1, 8001 Zürich
Hand in by Do not forward luggage on this short rail transfer. Leave Venice with all bags and board early enough to use train luggage racks. on Day 14. Expected Day 14.
Confirm acceptance with the hotel. Take the bags on the train. Use carriage-end luggage racks where available and keep passports, valuables and medication in a day bag.
Typical weather
Typical for July, based on long-term averages, not a forecast
Typically 15°C to 25°C
July is Paris's warmest month on long-term averages, but rain, thunderstorms and short hot spells remain possible. This stay runs from 01/07/2027 to 06/07/2027, so July climate normals are the relevant basis.
59.6 mm rainfall · about 10 wet days in the month
What to wear
- • Pack breathable clothes, comfortable closed walking shoes and sun protection.
- • Carry a compact rain jacket or umbrella each day.
- • Bring a light layer for air-conditioned museums and cooler evenings.
- • Book major museums for morning entry and use gardens, the Seine or hotel downtime during the warmest part of the afternoon.
- • Carry a compact rain layer and move an outdoor walk to a museum, covered passage or café if showers develop.
- • Check official museum pages a few days beforehand for exceptional closures, security conditions and timed-entry requirements.
Luggage plan
Central Zurich hotel to Paris hotel
Hand in by No separate forwarding is planned. Keep all luggage with you for the Zurich to Paris rail transfer and hand bags to the Paris hotel at arrival if the room is not ready. on Day 18. Expected Day 18.
Confirm acceptance with the hotel. Take the bags on the train. Use the designated luggage rack near your carriage and keep passports, medication and valuables in a day bag.
Typical weather
Typical for July, based on long-term averages, not a forecast
Typically 21°C to 29°C
Day 24 is 07/07/2027 and Day 27 is 10/07/2027, so this Barcelona stay falls in July. July is typically hot and comparatively dry, but humidity, strong sun and occasional thunderstorms are possible.
20 mm rainfall · about 4 wet days in the month
What to wear
- • Light, breathable clothing, comfortable walking shoes and a sun hat.
- • Pack high-SPF sunscreen and a refillable water bottle.
- • Bring one light layer and a compact rain jacket for evening breeze or a storm.
- • Book Sagrada Família and Park Güell for the morning to reduce heat and crowd exposure.
- • Carry water, sunscreen, a hat and a light layer for strong indoor air-conditioning or a late waterfront breeze.
- • Use the flexible afternoon on Day 27 for the beach only in settled weather; switch to Casa Vicens or rest if it is very hot or wet.
Typical weather
Typical for July, based on long-term averages, not a forecast
Typically 18°C to 28°C
Late July is typically hot, dry and sunny in Lisbon, with warm evenings. These are long-term climate normals, not a forecast; Atlantic breezes can make exposed riverfront and hilltop areas feel cooler.
6.1 mm rainfall · about 1.2 wet days in the month
What to wear
- • Light breathable clothes, a hat and sunscreen for daytime walks.
- • Wear grippy walking shoes for cobbles, hills and tram tracks.
- • Carry a light layer for breezy evenings and air-conditioned interiors.
- • Start Belém and exposed viewpoints early, then use the hottest period for lunch, a rest or an indoor museum.
- • Carry water and plan shade breaks; Lisbon's hills make heat feel stronger.
- • Check official venue pages shortly before travel for 2027 entry arrangements, closures and timed-ticket rules.
Luggage plan
Central Barcelona hotel to Central Lisbon hotel
Hand in by Check the airline's checked-bag deadline after the 2027 flight is ticketed. Take bags to Barcelona Airport with you; do not send them separately for this flight. on Day 28. Expected Day 28.
Confirm acceptance with the hotel. If checked-bag service is disrupted, keep passports, medicines, valuables, one change of clothes and chargers in cabin bags. Ask the Lisbon hotel to hold delayed luggage when it arrives.
Typical weather
Typical for July, based on long-term averages, not a forecast
Typically 12°C to 20°C
Day 31 falls on 14/07/2027 and Day 36 on 19/07/2027, so the Dublin stay is wholly in July. July is typically Dublin's warmest month, but conditions remain mild and changeable, with rain and wind possible.
50 mm rainfall · about 10 wet days in the month
What to wear
- • Pack a light waterproof jacket and compact rain cover for the day bag.
- • Wear layers: T-shirt, light knit or fleece, and comfortable closed shoes with grip.
- • Bring a warmer evening layer for coastal wind and outdoor dining.
- • Plan Howth only on the driest, least windy day and retain EPIC as the indoor replacement.
- • Book timed indoor attractions for the middle of the day, leaving outdoor walks flexible.
- • Carry a waterproof layer daily and use the final open afternoon as a weather buffer.
Colosseum Archaeological Park official timed entry
Check the official channel from early 2027 and reconfirm release timing closer to the visit; June slots can sell quickly.
Official admission price and any optional official guided component are confirmation_required for 2027.
confirmation required
Colosseum Archaeological ParkNot yet checked
Vatican Museums official timed entry
Check the official Vatican Museums booking channel from early 2027; reserve the earliest suitable entry once June dates are released.
Official museum admission and reservation charges are confirmation_required for 2027.
confirmation required
Vatican MuseumsChecked 30/10/2026source
Galleria Borghese official timed entry
Check the official gallery channel from early 2027 and book a morning slot when June 2027 sales open.
Official admission price and booking terms are confirmation_required for 2027.
confirmation required
Galleria BorgheseNot yet checked
Uffizi Galleries timed entry
Check the official Uffizi ticket channel once 2027 dates are released; book an early entry as soon as the preferred date is available.
Official admission and reservation charges are confirmation_required for 2027.
confirmation required
Uffizi GalleriesNot yet checked
Galleria dell'Accademia timed entry
Check the official Accademia channel when 2027 timed entries are published; reserve the first practical entry period.
Official admission and reservation charges are confirmation_required for 2027.
confirmation required
Galleria dell'Accademia di FirenzeNot yet checked
Florence Cathedral Complex entry
Choose a paid component only after checking the official 2027 ticket types, timed-entry rules and stair-access conditions.
Official ticket prices and inclusions are confirmation_required for 2027.
confirmation required
Opera di Santa Maria del FioreNot yet checked
St Mark's Basilica timed entry
Check the official basilica booking channel from early 2027 and again 60 days before the visit, as 2027 release timing is not yet published.
Official visitor access conditions and any booking fee are confirmation_required for 2027.
confirmation required
St Mark's BasilicaNot yet checked
Doge's Palace timed admission
Check official MUVE ticket release timing from early 2027 and book the earliest suitable slot once available.
2027 admission price and ticket inclusions are confirmation_required.
confirmation required
Fondazione Musei Civici di VeneziaNot yet checked
Murano and Burano self-guided vaporetto day
No tour booking needed. Confirm the relevant ACTV tickets, pass validity and 2027 routing shortly before travel.
ACTV fare products and 2027 prices are confirmation_required.
recommended
ACTV VeneziaChecked 30/10/2026source
Mount Rigi self-guided rail and mountain railway day
Check 2027 Rigi Bahn operating dates, maintenance notices and SBB connections again from 01/03/2027; buy transport after the weather decision if flexible fares are available.
Transport-only planning target. Exact 2027 fares, inclusions and any reservation requirements are not yet published and must be confirmed directly.
confirmation required
Rigi BahnenNot yet checked
Louvre timed-entry ticket
Check the Louvre's official ticket calendar from early 2027, then reserve as soon as July 2027 dates are released.
Official admission pricing for July 2027 has not been published and must be confirmed before purchase.
confirmation required
Musée du LouvreNot yet checked
Musée d'Orsay timed-entry ticket
Check the official Musée d'Orsay online ticket calendar when July 2027 dates become available.
Official July 2027 admission pricing is confirmation_required.
confirmation required
Musée d'OrsayNot yet checked
Sainte-Chapelle timed-entry ticket
Book through the official monument ticket channel when July 2027 dates are released, allowing for security screening.
Official July 2027 admission pricing is confirmation_required.
confirmation required
Sainte-ChapelleNot yet checked
Bateaux-Mouches Seine cruise
Check official schedules and reserve only if you prefer a cruise to the final riverside walk. Confirm close to travel because operating patterns can change.
Use the official operator's published 2027 fare at booking; no fare is assumed in this plan.
confirmation required
Bateaux-MouchesNot yet checked
Sagrada Família timed entry
Check the official ticket page from early 2027 and book once July 2027 dates are released.
Official admission price for two adults is confirmation_required for 2027; select tower access only if comfortable with height and stairs.
confirmation required
Basílica de la Sagrada FamíliaNot yet checked
Park Güell Monumental Core timed entry
Check the official website from early 2027 and reserve a morning slot when July dates open.
Official entry price for two adults is confirmation_required for 2027.
confirmation required
Park GüellNot yet checked
Fado evening in Alfama or Mouraria
Check direct venue reservations about 30 to 60 days before the preferred date, then reconfirm 7 days before travel.
Venue-set dinner and performance pricing varies by menu, seating and 2027 programme; confirmation_required.
confirmation required
Visit LisboaNot yet checked
Jerónimos Monastery visitor entry
Check official entry and any timed-ticket process 30 to 60 days before travel; recheck the week before because 2027 arrangements are not yet published.
Official admission pricing and concessions for 2027 are confirmation_required.
confirmation required
Museus e Monumentos de PortugalNot yet checked
Book of Kells Experience
Check the official calendar from late 2026, then reserve once 14/07/2027 availability is published.
Timed-entry price for two adults is confirmation_required for 2027.
confirmation required
Trinity College DublinNot yet checked
Guinness Storehouse
Check the official booking calendar from late 2026 and book a late-afternoon slot only if this is preferred over a slower Liberties walk.
Adult admission for two is confirmation_required for 2027; selected tickets may include a drink, subject to current terms.
confirmation required
Guinness StorehouseNot yet checked
Howth self-guided coastal day
No tour booking required. Check Irish Rail services and weather the day before and again on the morning.
DART fares and any optional food or attraction costs are payable separately and confirmation_required for 2027.
recommended
Irish RailNot yet checked
What to pack, place by place
- Rome16°C to 28°CLight, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes with grip for cobbles. Bring a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and a refillable water bottle. Pack a light layer and compact rain shell for evening showers or air-conditioned museums.
- Florence15°C to 27°CWear breathable clothing, sun protection and comfortable closed shoes for cobblestones. Carry a light rain layer for short showers and a light layer for air-conditioned museums. Pack clothing that covers shoulders and knees for church visits.
- Venice15°C to 25°CWear breathable layers, sun protection and comfortable shoes with grip for wet paving and bridge steps. Carry a compact rain jacket or small umbrella. Bring modest shoulder and knee coverage for basilicas.
- Zurich13°C to 23°CPack a light waterproof jacket and a compact umbrella. Wear comfortable shoes with grip for cobbles and possible wet paths. Take a warm mid-layer for Lake Zurich evenings and Mount Rigi.
- Paris15°C to 25°CPack breathable clothes, comfortable closed walking shoes and sun protection. Carry a compact rain jacket or umbrella each day. Bring a light layer for air-conditioned museums and cooler evenings.
- Barcelona21°C to 29°CLight, breathable clothing, comfortable walking shoes and a sun hat. Pack high-SPF sunscreen and a refillable water bottle. Bring one light layer and a compact rain jacket for evening breeze or a storm.
- Lisbon18°C to 28°CLight breathable clothes, a hat and sunscreen for daytime walks. Wear grippy walking shoes for cobbles, hills and tram tracks. Carry a light layer for breezy evenings and air-conditioned interiors.
- Dublin12°C to 20°CPack a light waterproof jacket and compact rain cover for the day bag. Wear layers: T-shirt, light knit or fleece, and comfortable closed shoes with grip. Bring a warmer evening layer for coastal wind and outdoor dining.
Luggage
- Arrival-day storage
- Both suggested hotels need to confirm early luggage acceptance directly for the booked rate and date.
- 01Keep passports, medication, valuables, a change of clothes and one evening outfit in cabin bags.
- 02Ask the chosen hotel to confirm luggage storage before check-in and after check-out in writing.
- Do not rely on a room being ready after a morning arrival.
- Rome's historic-centre paving can be difficult with large wheeled cases.
- Possiamo lasciare i bagagli prima del check-in?, Can we leave our luggage before check-in?
Not yet checked
Transit cards
- Airport rail
- Leonardo express is the direct Fiumicino Airport to Roma Termini option; verify 2027 operations before travel.
- 01Use contactless payment or buy tickets only from official operator channels and machines.
- 02Validate paper local tickets where required before boarding.
- Do not accept transport offers from people approaching you inside the airport.
- A taxi is more practical than public transport with larger luggage or severe jet lag.
- Dov'è la stazione dei taxi ufficiali?, Where is the official taxi rank?
Not yet checked
Cash and cards
- Currency
- Italy uses the euro.Source
- 01Use a fee-aware card for most purchases and carry a small amount of euro cash for minor purchases.
- 02Choose to pay in euro if prompted by a card terminal.
- Dynamic currency conversion can add cost.
- Check restaurant bills for any service charge before adding a tip.
- Posso pagare con la carta?, Can I pay by card?
Checked 30/10/2026source
Etiquette
- Church dress
- Shoulders and knees should be covered for many churches and religious sites; site rules can vary.
- 01Carry a light scarf or overshirt for church entry.
- 02Use refillable water bottles at public fountains only where water is clearly marked potable.
- Eating on monument steps and littering can attract fines in central Rome.
- Avoid treating a restaurant cover charge as an error; ask if unclear.
- Un tavolo per due, per favore., A table for two, please.
Not yet checked
Emergency
- European emergency number
- Call 112 for emergency assistance in Italy.
- Australian consular assistance
- For urgent consular assistance, contact the Australian Embassy in Rome or the DFAT Consular Emergency Centre.
- 01Save 112, your travel insurer's emergency number and your hotel address offline.
- 02For lost passports or serious incidents, contact the Australian Embassy in Rome and follow its current instructions.
- 112 is for genuine emergencies, not routine travel support.
- Carry a photo of passports separately from the originals.
- Ho bisogno di aiuto., I need help.
- Chiamate il 112, per favore., Please call 112.
Not yet checked
Transit cards
- Walking base
- Most central Florence sights are within a 10 to 30-minute walk from Santa Maria Novella or the Duomo precinct.
- 01Use walking for the historic centre, particularly between Santa Maria Novella, the Duomo, Uffizi and Ponte Vecchio.
- 02Use an official taxi for station transfers with large luggage or for the uphill return from Piazzale Michelangelo.
- 03Check the hotel drop-off point because the historic centre has limited-traffic streets.
- Do not assume a taxi can stop directly at every hotel entrance.
- Cobblestones, narrow pavements and summer crowds make wheeled luggage slower than the map distance suggests.
Not yet checked
Cash and cards
- Currency
- Italy uses the euro.Source
- 01Carry a small amount of euro cash for minor purchases and use a card with low foreign-transaction fees where accepted.
- 02Choose to be charged in euro if a card terminal offers currency conversion.
- Dynamic currency conversion can be poorer value than paying in euro.
- Check card acceptance before sitting down at a very small bar or market stall.
Checked 30/10/2026source
Etiquette
- Church clothing
- Cover shoulders and knees when entering churches, including Santa Croce and the cathedral complex.
- 01Order and pay at the counter when having a quick coffee at a bar unless table service is clearly offered.
- 02Make museum and restaurant reservations in advance for June.
- 03Speak quietly in churches and keep food and drink outside where required.
- A cappuccino is available at any time, but locals commonly treat milk coffee as a morning drink.
- Restaurants may have a coperto, or cover charge, listed on the menu.
- Buongiorno, Good morning or hello
- Vorrei prenotare per due, I would like to book for two
- Il conto, per favore, The bill, please
Not yet checked
Packing
- June conditions
- Warm days, strong sun and occasional rain are normal for Florence in June.
- 01Pack breathable clothes, a light layer for air-conditioned museums and evenings, and supportive shoes with grip for cobblestones.
- 02Carry a refillable water bottle, sun protection and a compact rain layer.
- 03Use a small cross-body bag or zipped day pack in crowded museum and bridge areas.
- The Duomo complex and Piazzale Michelangelo involve stairs or uphill walking.
- Churches may refuse entry to visitors in very short shorts, singlets or uncovered shoulders.
Not yet checked
Emergency
- Emergency number
- Call 112 for police, ambulance or fire emergency services in Italy.
- Australian consular help
- Contact the Australian Embassy in Italy or the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre if needed.
- Health advice
- For Australian travel advice and registration information, consult Smartraveller before departure.
- 01For a life-threatening emergency, call 112 and give your exact location or nearest landmark.
- 02Keep passport copies, travel-insurance details and hotel contact details separately from the originals.
- 03For theft, ask police for a report required by insurers and contact the bank promptly to freeze affected cards.
- 112 can be used across the European Union.
- Do not rely on a hotel concierge as a substitute for urgent medical or police contact.
- Aiuto, Help
- Ho bisogno di un medico, I need a doctor
- Chiamate il 112, Call 112
Not yet checked
Transit cards
- Water transport
- ACTV runs Venice vaporetto services. Buy and validate the correct ticket or pass before boarding, and check route notices on the day.Source
- Airport and city transport
- ACTV ticket products and validity rules can change, so confirm the applicable 2027 fare on the official site before purchase.Source
- 01Use the official ACTV journey planner or maps to identify the hotel’s nearest stop.
- 02Allow extra time at busy stops and keep bags close when boarding.
- 03Validate paper tickets where required before travel.
- Vaporetto routes can be busy in summer and boarding with large cases takes time.
- Walking routes often include bridge steps, even over short distances.
Checked 30/10/2026source
Cash and cards
- Currency
- Italy uses the euro. Carry a small amount of cash for small purchases, while checking card acceptance before ordering.
- 01Use a bank card with low foreign-transaction fees where possible.
- 02Choose to be charged in euros rather than Australian dollars if offered a card conversion choice.
- Some small bacari may prefer or set minimums for card payments.
- Keep cash and cards in separate secure places in crowded areas.
Not yet checked
Etiquette
- Church visits
- Dress and access rules are set by each church; check official visitor guidance before visiting.
- 01Cover shoulders and knees for basilica visits, and carry a light layer in your day bag.
- 02Order and pay as directed at bacari, where standing at the counter is common.
- 03Keep voices down in residential alleys, particularly late at night.
- Do not sit or picnic where prohibited around major monuments.
- Avoid feeding pigeons and follow local notices in Piazza San Marco.
- Buongiorno, Good morning or hello.
- Due biglietti, per favore, Two tickets, please.
- Il conto, per favore, The bill, please.
Not yet checked
Packing
- Walking surfaces
- Venice has paving, uneven edges and frequent bridge steps, so stable footwear matters.
- 01Use comfortable shoes with grip rather than new sandals or smooth-soled shoes.
- 02Carry a refillable water bottle, sunscreen, sunglasses and a compact rain layer.
- 03Keep passports, medication and valuables in a small day bag rather than checked luggage.
- Wheelie cases are difficult across bridges, so pack with manageable lifting in mind.
- Mosquitoes can be present near water in summer; pack repellent if you are prone to bites.
Not yet checked
Emergency
- European emergency number
- Call 112 for emergency assistance in Italy.
- Australian consular assistance
- For urgent help overseas, contact the Australian Government Consular Emergency Centre.
- Italy travel advice
- Check current Australian travel advice and local safety guidance before departure.
- 01Call 112 for police, fire or ambulance emergencies.
- 02Save hotel contact details and your travel insurer’s emergency number offline.
- 03If a passport is lost, contact the Australian Embassy in Rome through official DFAT channels.
- Pickpocketing risk is higher around transport hubs and crowded visitor areas.
- Do not use unlicensed porters, boats or transport solicited aggressively on the street.
- Aiuto, Help.
- Chiamate il 112, Call 112.
- Ho bisogno di un medico, I need a doctor.
Not yet checked
Transit cards
- Local tickets
- Buy Zurich public-transport tickets and check zones through ZVV before boarding.
- Lake boats
- Zurichsee-Schifffahrtsgesellschaft operates scheduled Lake Zurich services; routes and seasonal timetables must be checked for the actual day.
- 01Use the official ZVV journey planner for tram, S-Bahn and bus routing.
- 02For a mountain day, use SBB for the complete Zurich to Arth-Goldau itinerary, then check Rigi Bahn operating information directly.
- 03Keep rail tickets and passports accessible for the next-day France-bound train.
- Swiss public transport is generally proof-of-payment, so hold a valid ticket before travel.
- Do not assume a city ticket covers an Alpine excursion or a Lake Zurich cruise.
- Check the final departure for any mountain railway before walking away from the station.
- Grüezi, Hello
- Danke vielmals, Thank you very much
Not yet checked
Cash and cards
- Currency
- Swiss franc, abbreviated CHF.
- Cards
- Cards are widely used, but keep a small amount of CHF for minor purchases or contingencies.
- 01Use a bank ATM or a fee-transparent card for CHF withdrawals if cash is needed.
- 02When paying by card, choose CHF rather than an offered Australian-dollar conversion if given the choice.
- Switzerland is not in the euro area, so do not rely on euros for routine payments.
- Check your Australian bank’s overseas transaction and ATM fees before departure.
Not yet checked
Etiquette
- Public spaces
- Keep voices low on trains and trams, and allow passengers to exit before boarding.
- 01Make restaurant bookings for preferred dinner times, especially in June.
- 02Tip only for good service if desired; service is generally included in listed prices.
- Sunday trading and public-holiday hours can differ, so confirm museums, shops and restaurants close to the date.
- Mountain weather can change quickly even after a warm Zurich morning.
- Entschuldigung, Excuse me
- Sprechen Sie Englisch?, Do you speak English?
Not yet checked
Packing
- Mountain safety
- Check official Swiss weather warnings and mountain operating notices before the Rigi option.
- 01Carry a compact rain layer, sunglasses, sunscreen, refillable water bottle and a warmer top for the mountain day.
- 02Use shoes with grip for cobbles, lakeside paths and any short mountain walk.
- 03Keep passports in the day bag because the onward Paris rail trip crosses an international border.
- A clear city forecast does not guarantee clear summit conditions.
- Do not wear new shoes for the Uetliberg or Rigi day.
Not yet checked
Emergency
- Police
- 117
- Fire service
- 118
- Ambulance
- 144
- European emergency number
- 112
- Australian consular help
- Contact the Australian Embassy in Switzerland or DFAT’s 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre.
- 01For a life-threatening emergency, call 112 or the relevant Swiss service number.
- 02For lost passports or serious consular issues, use Smartraveller contact directions and notify travel insurance promptly.
- 03Keep hotel address, travel-insurance assistance number and medication details saved offline.
- Travel insurance is not a substitute for urgent emergency care.
- For non-urgent medical advice, ask hotel reception for a local doctor or pharmacy rather than using emergency services.
- Ich brauche Hilfe, I need help
- Rufen Sie bitte einen Krankenwagen, Please call an ambulance
Not yet checked
Transit cards
- Metro and RER
- Use official RATP journey planning for Metro, RER, bus and tram routes. Ticket products and fares for July 2027 require confirmation.
- 01Use contactless payment or buy the appropriate ticket product through official RATP or Île-de-France Mobilités channels once 2027 fares are published.
- 02Use taxis for Gare de Lyon transfers with substantial luggage; use Metro mainly for day trips without bags.
- Some Metro stations have stairs, narrow gates and lengthy internal corridors.
- Keep the ticket or payment method until you have exited the system, as inspection rules apply.
Not yet checked
Cash and cards
- Currency
- France uses the euro. Cards are widely accepted, but carry a small amount of cash for small purchases or contingencies.
- 01Use a card that does not charge foreign transaction fees where possible.
- 02When offered dynamic currency conversion, choose to pay in euros rather than Australian dollars.
- Keep a second card separate from your main wallet.
- Check your bank's overseas transaction and cash withdrawal fees before departure.
Not yet checked
Etiquette
- Greeting
- Say Bonjour before asking for help in shops, cafés and restaurants.
- 01Use Bonjour in the daytime and Bonsoir in the evening before beginning an interaction.
- 02Ask for the bill with L'addition, s'il vous plaît rather than waiting indefinitely after a meal.
- Service is generally included, but a small extra tip for notably good service is optional rather than mandatory.
- Book popular restaurants rather than relying on a walk-in at peak summer dinner times.
- Bonjour, Hello
- Bonsoir, Good evening
- L'addition, s'il vous plaît, The bill, please
- Parlez-vous anglais ?, Do you speak English?
Not yet checked
Packing
- Summer conditions
- July in Paris is usually warm but can include rain and occasional hot spells. Use layers and check conditions shortly before each day.
- 01Carry a refillable water bottle, sunscreen and a compact rain layer.
- 02Wear supportive walking shoes with grip for cobbles, station stairs and long museum days.
- 03Pack one smart-casual outfit for restaurant reservations and a light layer for cooler evenings.
- Museum air-conditioning and cool interiors can feel markedly cooler than outside.
- Avoid carrying valuables in open bags on crowded Metro platforms and around major visitor sites.
Not yet checked
Emergency
- Emergency number
- Call 112 for emergency services across the European Union.
- Police emergency
- Call 17 for police in France.
- Medical emergency
- Call 15 for SAMU medical emergency services in France.
- Australian consular help
- For urgent Australian consular assistance, contact the Australian Embassy in France or the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre.
- 01For an immediate threat, medical emergency or fire, call 112 and state your location clearly.
- 02For passport loss or serious consular issues, contact the Australian Embassy in France and your travel insurer.
- 03Keep a photo of passports, insurance details and hotel address in a secure offline location.
- Emergency operators may ask for the arrondissement, street and nearby landmark.
- Travel insurance assistance is not a substitute for emergency services.
- J'ai besoin d'aide, I need help
- Appelez une ambulance, Call an ambulance
- Où est le commissariat ?, Where is the police station?
Not yet checked
Transit cards
- Main local network
- Metro, buses and other city transport are operated through the TMB network.
- Airport connection
- Confirm the airport terminal and the best route from the hotel before Day 28. Taxi is usually simplest with checked bags.Source
- 01Use contactless payment or buy the appropriate TMB ticket after checking the current official fare rules.
- 02For Sagrada Família, Park Güell and beach transfers, use taxis when heat, hills or time matter more than saving a few euros.
- Barcelona Metro stations can have stairs and longer underground connections.
- Do not use unofficial drivers or accept unsolicited transport offers.
Not yet checked
Cash and cards
- Currency
- Spain uses the euro.
- 01Carry a small amount of euro cash for small purchases, but use a card with low foreign-transaction fees where accepted.
- 02Choose to pay in EUR, not an Australian-dollar conversion, if the card terminal offers a choice.
- Check the terminal before tapping, as dynamic currency conversion can be poor value.
Not yet checked
Etiquette
- Visitor safety guidance
- Keep belongings secure in crowded tourist areas and on public transport.
- 01Keep phones, passports and cards in zipped bags, especially around La Rambla, the Gothic Quarter, Sagrada Família and beaches.
- 02Use only licensed taxis or transport booked through the hotel or official operator.
- Do not leave valuables on the beach while swimming.
- Restaurants commonly eat later than in Australia, though tourist-area venues may offer earlier service.
- Bon dia, Good morning
- Si us plau, Please
- El compte, si us plau, The bill, please
Not yet checked
Emergency
- European emergency number
- Call 112 for police, ambulance or fire emergency assistance.
- Australian consular help
- For urgent consular assistance, contact the Australian Embassy in Spain or DFAT's 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre.
- 01Call 112 first for an immediate emergency.
- 02For lost passports or consular matters, use the Australian Government's Spain travel advice and embassy contacts.
- 03Keep digital copies of passports, travel insurance and booking details separate from the originals.
- Travel insurance and consular services do not replace urgent medical or police assistance.
- Necessito ajuda, I need help
- Truqui al 112, Call 112
Not yet checked
Transit cards
- Metro access
- Lisbon Airport is on the Metro network. Buy and load a Viva Viagem card through official Metro channels if using public transport.
- 01Use a taxi for hotel transfers with larger cases or if staying on a steep street.
- 02For local public transport, buy a Viva Viagem card from an official machine or Metro point of sale.
- 03Check the current route before travelling, especially for tram diversions and works.
- Historic Lisbon is hilly, cobbled and often stepped.
- Tram 28 can be crowded. Keep phones and wallets secure and do not force it into the plan.
- Dois bilhetes, por favor., Two tickets, please.
- Onde fica a estação de metro?, Where is the Metro station?
Not yet checked
Cash and cards
- Currency
- Portugal uses the euro.
- 01Use a card with low foreign-exchange fees where possible.
- 02Keep a small amount of cash for small purchases and contingencies.
- 03Choose to pay in euros, not Australian dollars, if a card terminal offers currency conversion.
- Some small venues may have minimum card-spend rules or prefer a local debit card.
- Check the final amount before tapping, particularly at busy tourist-area venues.
- Posso pagar com cartão?, Can I pay by card?
Not yet checked
Etiquette
- Restaurant pace
- Meals can be slower than in Australia, especially at dinner. Ask for the bill when ready.
- 01Say hello when entering smaller shops and cafés.
- 02Ask for the bill rather than waiting for it: A conta, por favor.
- 03Tip only for good service and according to your judgement; it is not a fixed compulsory percentage.
- Bread, olives or snacks placed on the table may be chargeable if eaten.
- Watch for uneven pavements, slippery polished stone and passing trams on narrow streets.
- A conta, por favor., The bill, please.
- Obrigado., Thank you, said by a man.
- Obrigada., Thank you, said by a woman.
Not yet checked
Packing
- Sun safety
- Use shade, water and sunscreen for long exposed walks around Belém and viewpoints.
- 01Pack broken-in walking shoes with grip for cobbles and hills.
- 02Carry a refillable water bottle, sun protection and a light layer for breezy evenings.
- 03Use a small cross-body or zipped day bag in crowded trams and viewpoints.
- A dressier restaurant may prefer smart-casual clothing.
- Belém has less shade than central lanes, so schedule its outdoor sights early.
Not yet checked
Emergency
- Emergency number
- Call 112 for police, ambulance or fire emergency assistance across Portugal.
- Australian consular assistance
- For urgent consular help, contact the Australian Embassy in Portugal or the Consular Emergency Centre.
- Health advice
- For urgent health concerns, contact local emergency services or seek advice from the Portuguese health service information line where available.
- 01For an immediate emergency, call 112 and state your location clearly.
- 02Keep passport copies, travel-insurance details and the hotel address available offline.
- 03Report lost passports promptly to Australian consular services and local police as directed.
- Do not rely on roaming data in an emergency. Save the hotel address and emergency numbers before going out.
- For non-urgent issues, ask the hotel to help find a local pharmacy, doctor or police station.
- Preciso de ajuda., I need help.
- Chame uma ambulância, por favor., Please call an ambulance.
Not yet checked
Transit cards
- Useful local payment
- A contactless bank card is practical for many city journeys. Check current Leap Card and visitor-ticket products before travel.
- Howth rail
- DART connects central Dublin stations with Howth; check the Irish Rail journey planner on the day for works or service changes.
- 01Use the Transport for Ireland journey planner for buses, Luas and rail.
- 02For Howth, check the Irish Rail journey planner before leaving the hotel.
- 03Keep a contactless card and a small amount of cash as backup.
- Late-July events, road closures and rail works can change journey times.
- Do not assume all central stops are step-free or equally convenient with luggage.
Not yet checked
Cash and cards
- Currency
- Ireland uses the euro.
- 01Use a card for most hotel, restaurant and transport spending.
- 02Carry a small euro amount for small purchases or a contingency.
- Check whether your Australian card charges foreign-transaction or ATM fees.
- Choose to be charged in euro, not Australian dollars, if offered dynamic currency conversion.
Not yet checked
Etiquette
- Tipping
- Tipping is discretionary. Check whether a service charge has already been added before leaving extra.
- 01Queue for buses and let passengers alight before boarding.
- 02Ask before photographing performers, pub interiors or private shop displays.
- 03Use marked crossings and take care around buses, cyclists and Luas tracks.
- Weather can change several times in a day, so carry a light rain layer even in July.
- Temple Bar is lively but can be crowded and more expensive than nearby neighbourhood pubs.
- Dia duit, Hello
- Go raibh maith agat, Thank you
Not yet checked
Packing
- Weather planning
- Late July is usually mild rather than hot, with rain possible in every week.
- 01Pack a compact waterproof jacket, light knit or fleece, and shoes with grip for cobbles and coastal paths.
- 02Bring one smarter outfit for formal dining and a light layer for cooler evenings.
- 03Keep passport, medication, valuables and a rain layer in the day bag for the airport and coastal day.
- Do not rely on umbrellas on exposed coastal paths because wind can make them impractical.
- Cobblestones, wet paving and cliff paths can be slippery.
Not yet checked
Emergency
- Emergency number
- Call 112 or 999 for ambulance, fire or police emergency services in Ireland.
- Australian consular help
- For urgent consular assistance, contact the Australian Embassy in Ireland or the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre.
- Travel advice
- Read and subscribe to Smartraveller advice for Ireland before departure.
- 01Call 112 or 999 for an immediate emergency.
- 02For a non-urgent medical issue, ask the hotel to direct you to an appropriate local service.
- 03Keep travel insurance assistance details available offline.
- The European Health Insurance Card arrangements do not generally apply to Australian visitors; rely on suitable travel insurance and confirm policy cover.
- For theft or lost passports, obtain a local police report if your insurer or consular service requires one.
- Glaoigh ar otharcharr, Call an ambulance
- Cabhrú, le do thoil, Help, please
Not yet checked
Budget, estimate only
Australian dollars for the whole party, with the basis for every line. Estimates with provenance, never a quote.
| international flights | A$14,000estimate, not yet checked | Planning allowance for two adults on a Sydney to Rome and Dublin to Sydney open-jaw itinerary. Cabin choice, operating airline, stops and 2027 fare release remain confirmation_required. |
| accommodation | A$20,500estimate, not yet checked | 35 nights for two adults in well-located 4 to 5-star hotels. Planning target averages about A$586 per night, with higher summer costs expected in Venice, Paris, Barcelona and Dublin. Hotel rates, taxes, breakfast and cancellation terms are confirmation_required. |
| ground transport | A$1,650estimate, not yet checked | Two adults across airport links, local transfers and the Rome-Florence-Venice-Zurich-Paris-Barcelona rail route. Includes a planning allowance for Barcelona-Lisbon and Lisbon-Dublin flights only where listed transport costs are aggregated separately from long-haul flights. |
| tours | A$2,600estimate, not yet checked | Planning allowance for selected guided experiences, food experiences and one or two day trips for two adults. Specific operators and 2027 prices are not yet selected. |
| admissions | A$1,500estimate, not yet checked | Planning allowance for major museums, monuments and timed-entry sites for two adults. Advance-entry requirements and 2027 prices are confirmation_required. |
| meals | A$6,000estimate, not yet checked | Planning allowance for two adults across 36 calendar days, allowing a mix of hotel breakfasts, casual lunches, good dinners and occasional higher-cost meals. |
| incidentals | A$1,200estimate, not yet checked | Planning allowance for local transit, laundry, coffee, small purchases, tips where customary and mobile data. |
| contingency | A$2,550estimate, not yet checked | Reserve for exchange-rate movement, summer fare changes, weather-led adjustments and unexpected local transport or hotel costs. |
Recommended A$50,000, about A$25,000 each
Comfort A$58,000, about A$29,000 each
Not included
- • Personal shopping and optional upgrades
- • Travel insurance and passport or visa costs
- • Any price change after the source-check date
Watchpoints
2027 transport is not published yet
All 2027 long-haul flights, European flights, rail timetables and prices require confirmation when operators publish them. The numeric booking lead times are planning targets based on typical sales patterns, not guarantees. Book the open-jaw long-haul flights first, then high-demand hotels and timed attractions.
Decide by 15/08/2026
Dublin weather is warmest on average, not reliably hot
Dublin is positioned for 14/07/2027 to 19/07/2027, within the usual warmest part of the year. Pack layers and rain protection, and keep the free Dublin half-day weather-led. Confirm short-range forecasts close to travel.
Decide by 01/07/2027
Schengen and Irish entry rules differ
Italy, Switzerland, France, Spain and Portugal are within the Schengen travel area, while Ireland is not. Australian passport holders should verify passport validity, visa and any travel-authorisation requirements directly with official authorities before ticketing and again before departure.
Decide by 01/03/2027
Summer hotels and timed entries
June and July are high-demand periods. Venice, Paris, Barcelona and Dublin are the most likely pressure points for 4 to 5-star inventory. Once flights are locked, choose hotels with clear cancellation terms and then secure timed-entry sites through official venue systems when their 2027 calendars open.
Decide by 01/10/2026
Sources
Every link Haydi checked and found alive while writing this trip.
venue
- Vatican MuseumsChecked 30/10/2026
transport
- ACTV VeneziaChecked 30/10/2026
- Aena Barcelona-El Prat AirportChecked 30/10/2026
- Dublin AirportChecked 30/10/2026
- Dublin AirportChecked 30/10/2026
Use this as inspiration, then tell Haydi what matters for your own holiday.
Plan one like this