europe trip ideas 3 weeks

Unforgettable Europe in 3 Weeks: Your Essential Guide to Must-see Cities and Hidden Gems

If you’re planning your Europe itinerary for 3 weeks, here’s the ultimate Europe itinerary that will leave you with unforgettable memories.

Trying to create the ultimate Europe itinerary for 3 weeks is a tough job, something for the experts. Better yet, for someone who has been to all those places and can advise you on where to go and what to see.

So hello there, I’m Julia, and I have been to all these places in Europe (and much more) I am one of the few travel experts around that will be able to guide you while planning an unforgettable experience that will last forever in your memories. This is not an exaggeration.

If you’re planning your first trip to Europe and have about three weeks to spend on holiday, you want to create for yourself the best possible Europe itinerary. As a Europe travel expert and as someone who has seen most of these places, I’m about to spill the beans and tell you some things not a lot of travel agencies and famous bloggers want you to know about your first trip to Europe. 

What do you want to see during your Europe itinerary?

This is not my first blog about how to plan a trip to Europe or my first European itinerary. In fact, I drove in most European countries and did most of the continent by car multiple times. By the way, if you need to rent a car in Europe , always check the reviews.

And the one conclusion I’ve come to time and time again is that Europe is a big place, and it has so much to offer that you should know what you’re looking for before you start looking for it.

What I’m trying to say is that Europe has something for all of us, but we all want and like different things, so there will not be one true Europe itinerary that will fit all kinds of travellers. 

That’s why I highly encourage travellers to decide on what they want, and it doesn’t have to be a place or type of place. It could be a vibe or a feeling, the weather, culture, history, or anything that feels important to you.

Fortunately, You can get almost anywhere in Europe in a matter of hours, so creating a European itinerary that includes a bunch of cities from different countries will not be that extreme. 

We all travel differently

But before you attempt to create that Europe itinerary for your three weeks holiday in Europe, try to decide on some of the following topics:

• What do you want to see? Cities, towns, villages, landscapes, nature, rivers, mountains, sea, the ocean, etc.
• Do you have any specific weather you prefer? Hot, cold, spring temperatures, cloudy weather, etc. 
• What are your preferred activities? City sightseeing, hiking, water sports, extreme sports, etc. 
• Are you looking for a certain vibe, something that inspires you or what kind of place brings you joy? 

I’ve said many times before that travel destinations are about the way they make us feel, and therefore, there isn’t a one size fits all type of touristic destination or a favourite place we all share. And that’s a good thing. 

For instance, I dislike crowded cities and tourist places, and I prefer to stay away from them. As much as I would like to see a certain spot, if it’s too crowded, I know for a fact that it will ruin it for me. And at the end of the day, the only thing that matters is that I enjoy myself and recharge my soul with positive vibes. 

So please take a few moments to try to visualize and feel what you would expect to see, and then you will be better at creating a Europe itinerary that suits your personality and travel style. 

But that doesn’t matter I wouldn’t give you a base to start planning your itinerary. You can take it as it is, as this is my personal recommendation for a 3 weeks Europe itinerary, but feel free to adjust it to better suit you. 

Because the ultimate goal of travelling is to find places and hidden spots that spark our souls, and we all spark differently. 

Tips for travelling to Europe

Before you go, check out these insider tips that’ll have you exploring like a savvy local during your Europe 3 weeks itinerary. Buckle up, ’cause here we go!

• Early bird saves your budget: Book your hotels in advance! Scoring a sweet deal on accommodations in Europe is a piece of cake if you’re on the ball. Don’t sleep on it, or you’ll be stuck shelling out the big bucks.
• Bunk like a boss: Hostels are the best choice for budget-conscious wanderers. You’ll save a pretty penny, and hey, you might even make some fab new friends along the way. Check out Generator Hostels (they’re in multiple European cities) or St. Christopher ‘s Inns for a bangin’ good time.
• Bus it, baby: Euro-trains might be all the rage (check out RailEurope for deals), but let’s be real: buses are where it’s at for the wallet-watchers. FlixBus and Omio have got your back, offering cheap tickets that’ll have you zipping across borders without breaking the bank. Check out other ways to travel cheaply in Europe . 
• The world’s your oyster (card): Public transportation is a Euro-dream come true. Each major city has a city card that most often includes unlimited public transport and entrance to the most popular touristic attractions. Grab a city card (like London’s Oyster or Amsterdam’s OV-chipkaart) to save some dosh on local transit, and ride the rails like a true Euro-pro.
• Chow down like a champ: Skip the tourist traps and hunt down local markets, street food vendors, and hole-in-the-wall joints for mouthwatering grub that won’t cost an arm and a leg. And for this, you’ll need to get away from the city centre or around popular attractions. Foodies, rejoice!
• Freebie Frenzy : Europeans love to make the most of their vacay time, and that includes taking advantage of the tons of free attractions. Scope out free walking tours, museums, and galleries to give your wallet a much-needed breather. Some cities have a day of the month when museums are free (Yes, that’s Paris!)
• Night owls unite: Europe’s nightlife is absolutely legendary, but it can get pricey. Pre-game with some cheap supermarket booze, and then hit up bars with killer happy hour deals to party the night away without draining your bank account. And in most places, drinking on the street is legal.  
• Pack like a pro: Keep your luggage light and versatile. Research all the best apps you need for your first-time travel to Europe . And don’t forget a power adapter for those pesky Euro outlets! Check out here what to pack for your Eurotrip.  
• Learn the lingo: Europeans appreciate a traveller who makes an effort with their language. Pick up a few key phrases, and you’ll be winning hearts and scoring local tips left and right. 
• Carpe diem: Embrace spontaneity, and don’t be afraid to change plans on the fly for your 3 weeks Europe itinerary. You never know what hidden gems you might stumble upon when you let your Euro-adventure take the wheel.

3-week Europe itinerary 

Day 1-4: arrival in london, united kingdom.

London is one of the most famous cities in the world, and it has a lot to offer. While it isn’t a personal favourite, I can’t say it should be overlooked because it has some of the most iconic places on Earth. 

Also, London is a major Europe transport hub (check out flights here ), so you will most likely find plenty of flights from your country to London. After you arrive in Europe, you can book your flights using low-cost carriers such as Ryanair or EasyJet. 

On the first day, settle in, adjust to the new time and take it easy. 

Also, there’s plenty to see in London besides the popular streets, such as Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, the British Museum, and Westminster Abbey. London is a huge city, so there will be more places to see and experience to try than you will have time and energy for. I recommend deciding on a couple of things and then simply going with the flow. 

Some of the nice things to do in London include:

• Take a ride on the London Eye for panoramic city views
• Explore vibrant neighbourhoods: Camden, Notting Hill, and Shoreditch
• Attend a West End theatre show
• Day trip to Stonehenge and Bath

Day 5-7: Paris, France

If and only if this is your first time in Europe, then yes, go to Paris. You can simply travel from London to Paris via Eurostar train (get tickets on RailEurope ). It’s easy and convenient. But if you’ve been to Paris before, I would say to skip it and visit some European hidden gems instead. 

There’s plenty to do in Paris on your first visit, and some of the most popular activities include:

• Visit famous attractions: Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and Arc de Triomphe.
• Enjoy a Seine River cruise
• Explore Montmartre, Marais, and Latin Quarter neighbourhoods
• Visit iconic museums: Musée d’Orsay and Centre Pompidou
• Taste authentic French cuisine at a local bistro (it will not be cheap)
• Day trip to Versailles Palace (it’s closed on Monday. Don’t ask me how I know.)

For many, Paris is the essence of Europe, but I disagree. It’s nice, but there’s much more out there. I am including Paris on this Europe itinerary for 3 weeks because I know there’s a big demand for this tourist destination, but I urge you to reconsider. Most of the time, Paris is overcrowded, expensive for most of us, and not very clean. Once you get out of Paris, you might find lovely places, but only if you have the time. 

Disclaimer: As someone who has travelled extensively in Europe, Paris is simply not that great. Yes, it is home to the great Louvre Museum (and a few others) and the iconic Eiffel Tower. But unless you’re travelling to take photos for your Instagram or to make your friends jealous, then there are other places that you must visit in Europe before you take a second trip to Paris. I am afraid the internet might cancel me if I say I dislike Paris, so I won’t say it. 

Day 8-10: Amsterdam, Netherlands

You can travel from Paris to Amsterdam via RailEurope . After all, the best way to experience Europe is by train, especially if you can afford it. If not, we’ll always have Ryanair, which basically flies everywhere in Europe. 

Once you get to Amsterdam, don’t miss out on a canal cruise and a visit to the major sites, Anne Frank House, Van Gogh Museum, and Rijksmuseum. To soak in the spirit of Amsterdam, check out the Jordaan neighbourhood, Vondelpark and canal district (that was my favourite thing to do). Amsterdam has a huge culture around biking, so if you can ride a bike, rent one to explore the city. If you want to see more, spend a day trip to discover traditional Dutch villages. I recommend checking out Zaanse Schans, Volendam, and Marken. 

Obviously, Amsterdam is famous for its nightlife, which you can experience in Leidseplein or Rembrandtplein.

Day 11-13: Berlin, Germany

You can easily get from Amsterdam to Berlin via RailEurope . Prepare to explore the most multicultural city of the entire continent.

Berlin is unlike anything else you’ve seen or will see again anywhere in Europe. I fell in love with it the first time I travelled to Berlin.

And I have loved it ever since. Berlin is the kind of place you travel to because you want to feel the creative vibe and the freedom that comes with it. It’s about music, clubbing, flea markets, and an alternative lifestyle.

No matter how many blogs I write about Berlin (and I have quite a few guides), I can never fully translate how this city makes me feel. It’s hectic, new, and yet familiar. 

Ok, so once you get into this alternative vibe, you need to see the historical sites in Berlin , such as the Brandenburg Gate, Reichstag Building, the Berlin Wall, the Holocaust Memorial and Checkpoint Charlie. Get a bike (I like Donkey app) or a day ticket for public transport.

Then make sure to see a few of its different neighbourhoods. Explore the vibrant neighbourhoods of Kreuzberg, Friedrichshain, and Prenzlauer Berg. If you’re into museums, you’ll probably need a day to discover all the museums on Museum Island. Check out my blogs on Berlin’s culture and life in Berlin after the wall fell.

And if you have more energy, then Berlin’s nightlife and club scene will keep you up all night. You simply can get bored in Berlin. I would suggest a day trip to Postdam, but I’m not sure you can do all this in just 3 days in Berlin. 

Day 14-16: Prague, Czech Republic

Travel from Berlin to Prague via RailEurope or bus. Prague is only a couple of hours away, so this day will not be completely wasted. 

On the same day, you’ll have time to explore the Old Town and Charles Bridge. You can end the day at a traditional restaurant where you can taste Czech cuisine.

On the second day in Prague, head over to Prague Castle. Get the ticket that includes the four attractions (you’ll see there’re a bunch of places within the castle that require additional tickets, but that will be enough). However, for the best view, do visit the Lobkowicz Palace, which has a balcony that overlooks the entire city. My personal favourite place in the city. 

Prague is one of my favourite cities in Europe , and I’ve been there so many times, I lost count. Some of the things you should not miss in Prague are: 

• evening cruise on the Vltava River (get Prague Boat tickets online here )
• Go up in the Astronomical Tower
• Visit the Jewish Quarter and Lennon Wall
• Day trip to Kutná Hora or Český Krumlov

Day 17: Milan, Italy

Get a Ryanair and arrive in Italy. No trip to Europe is complete without a trip to Italy. There’s no place on Earth like Italy. And you will finally understand people’s fascination for Italy. 

Ah, Milan! This Italian fashion capital is a must-see for any Euro-tripper. Start by visiting the jaw-dropping Milan Cathedral (Duomo di Milano), a true Gothic masterpiece.

Then, stroll through the posh Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II for a taste of luxury shopping or a cheeky espresso. Catch a glimpse of da Vinci’s iconic Last Supper at the Santa Maria delle Grazie, and don’t miss out on the contemporary art scene at the Fondazione Prada.

Lastly, get your fill of culture at La Scala Opera House or catch a football match at the iconic San Siro Stadium. Milan’s got it all, from haute couture to historic gems!

Day 18-21: Rome, Italy

It can’t come as a surprise that all roads lead to Rome , right? 

I know I said that I’m not the kind of person to like big and crowded places, but Rome is a special place. I believe this is the most beautiful city on Earth, and I hope to visit it again as many times as possible. 

Rome is simply amazing, and you will not have enough time to see it all in only a couple of days, but you can try. 

Of course, you should not miss historical sites such as the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and Pantheon. And then you’ll need at least half of a day, but probably more, to explore the Vatican City, where you’ll find the famous St. Peter’s Basilica and Vatican Museum. 

Of course, you shouldn’t miss the Trevi Fountain or the Spanish Steps. 

And eat as much pasta, pizza and gelato as you possibly can. 

Day 22: Departure from Rome

Unfortunately, this is it for the Europe itinerary for 3 weeks. Check out of accommodation and head for the airport.

By now, you should have tons of memories from all these European experiences. But now you also know that Europe has so much more to offer. This 3-week Europe itinerary is barely scratching the surface of European culture.  

What else can you add to your Europe itinerary?

If you decide to spend more time in Europe, here’s what I recommend:

• Napoli, Italy (best pizza ever)
• Greek cities (Thessaloniki or Athens ) and, of course, the Greek islands (Santorini, Paxos, Zakynthos, Milos or Crete, just to name a few)
• The underrated part of Europe – Eastern Europe . Think about making a road trip to Bulgaria , Bucharest and a mountain hiking trip to Romania and, of course, Budapest, one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. 
• Once things get settled, I do encourage you to visit Ukraine – I loved Odesa , Kyiv and Lviv . 
• Poland is a huge country, but you shouldn’t miss Krakow, which is simply stunning. 
• The Baltic countries are worth their own road trip, or probably around two weeks. If you don’t have that much time, try at least to see Riga, the capital of Latvia , because you’ll be blown away. 
• Scandinavia is a trip on its own. These countries are all huge, but you can easily see Helsinki on a day trip from Tallinn , and then the Stockholm archipelago is within reach by ferry. And since you’ve made it this far, the fjords in Norway aren’t like anything you’ve seen before. 
• Spain is always a good idea, Barcelona is on the pricier side, but Madrid, Valencia and Seville are some of my favourites city on the peninsula. If you make it more south, Check out Gibraltar, as this is the only place on the continent to see wild monkeys. 
• And the southern region of Portugal is only hours away by car from Spain. Check out Algarve ; it’s probably the best place in Europe to see cliffs by the Ocean.  

This Europe itinerary for 3 weeks can be customized according to personal preferences and interests. It is advisable to book accommodations, RailEurope train tickets, and popular attraction tickets in advance.

Iulia Vasile

Iulia is a travel expert, blogger, engineer, freelance copywriter, and a curiosity-driven personality. She sees travel as the ultimate tool for self-improvement and personal growth, and that's the main topic of her blog, Juliasomething.com.

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Don't Miss A Thing: The Ultimate Three Week Europe Itinerary

7.02min read

Published 7 April 2022

Flight Centre

You’ve got three weeks in  the UK and Europe  – how are you going to spend them? Three weeks might seem like a long time, but believe us when we say that you could spend a lifetime travelling around this part of the world and there would still be more places to see, food to try and experiences to have.  

Luckily, we’re here to help you see as much as possible in the time you’ve got! Here are our top three UK and Europe itineraries to give you some inspiration. Pick your favourite one or stitch them all together to create the ultimate UK and Europe trip. It’s entirely up to you! 

Itineraries

• UK and Europe 
• Scandinavia 

Itinerary One: UK and Europe

Dublin, ireland.

Where better to start your adventure than the friendly city of  Dublin ? Visit the Book of Kells at  Trinity College Dublin  for a dose of history and follow it up with a trip to the  Guinness Storehouse . It’s the perfect place to learn all about Ireland’s most iconic beverage!  

Edinburgh, Scotland

Next up is  Edinburgh , Scotland’s stunning capital! Walk the cobbled Royal Mile, hike Arthur’s Seat or explore Scotland’s intriguing history at  Edinburgh Castle  and the  Palace of Holyroodhouse . The city is full of historic sites to explore. If you’re visiting in August, make sure to check out the famous Edinburgh Festival Fringe.  

London, England

Journey south and get ready to immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of  London  life. Catch a theatre performance in the West End and explore the many incredible (and often free) world-class museums London has on offer. You’ll also want to visit all the iconic landmarks like Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, St Paul’s Cathedral and Trafalgar Square.  

London is home to lots of incredible parks and green spaces that shouldn’t be skipped! Pack a picnic and head to Greenwich Park, Battersea Park, Kensington Gardens or Regent’s Park. You’ll forget you’re in the major, metropolitan city of London.  

Paris, France

Day 9 to 11.

Wave goodbye to the  United Kingdom  as you cross the Channel and arrive in  Paris . Climb the Eiffel Tower, walk along the Seine and pay a visit to da Vinci’s Mona Lisa at  the Louvre . For something different, explore the charming, cobbled streets of the Montmartre district. Oh, and don’t forget to allow plenty of time for bread, cheese and croissants while you’re there!

Amsterdam, the Netherlands

Day 13 to 14.

Next stop, the Netherlands! We’d recommend visiting the  Rijksmuseum  and the  Van Gogh Museum  for a bit of culture while in  Amsterdam . Or spend some time at the  Anne Frank House  to learn more about this incredible young girl’s story. Rent a bicycle to explore the city like a local and make time to try some poffertjes, or Dutch pancakes.  

Berlin, Germany

Day 15 to 16.

Immerse yourself in history at the East Side Gallery, once part of the Berlin Wall and now a 1.3km long art installation, and the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe. Keen to get outdoors? Pay a visit to Tempelhofer Feld for something different! It’s an abandoned runway-turned-city park. And don’t leave  Berlin  without sampling some of Europe’s best kebabs.  

Prague, the Czech Republic

Day 17 to 18.

From Berlin to  Prague ! Lose track of time admiring the famous Prague Astronomical Clock in Old Town Square or take a stroll across the striking Charles Bridge.  Prague Castle  is another attraction that you won’t want to miss. The castle dates all the way back to the 9th century. 

Salzburg, Austria

Day 19 to 20.

Next stop on your Europe itinerary is the charming city of  Salzburg . Visit the Getreidegasse, Mozart’s birthplace and now a bustling shopping street, or head to  Hohensalzburg Fortress , one of Europe’s largest medieval castles. Fan of the Sound of Music? See the sights of Salzburg made famous by the movie on a guided tour.  

Zermatt, Switzerland

Day 20 to 21.

Onwards to the Swiss Alps! Go skiing, take in the views and explore an enchanting glacier palace at the  Matterhorn Glacier Paradise , Europe’s highest mountain station. A visit to Zermatlantis, the Matterhorn Museum, is perfect for those looking to find out more about the history of the famous Swiss landmark. 

Switzerland  is also a great place to experience some of the best train travel in the world! Try the Jungfrau Railway and journey to the highest railway station in Europe. It’s a good idea to book your train tickets in advance. You can also reserve a seat to make sure you get a great view while on board.  

UK and Europe Travel: Tips on Where to Visit Based on Your Travel Type

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Itinerary Two: Europe

Barcelona, spain.

Admire the distinct architecture of La Sagrada Familia,  Barcelona’s  famously unfinished basilica, or the colourful ceramic designs decorating  Park Güell . Authentic Spanish paella and tapas are also a must while visiting Barcelona. 

Rome, Italy

Hopefully you’ve been practising your Italian because the next stop on our travel itinerary is  Rome ! Be transported back to the time of gladiators with a visit to the Colosseum. The Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon are also incredible landmarks that you’ll want to tick off the bucket list.  

Spend a full day exploring Vatican City if you can! From the Renaissance architecture of St. Peter’s Basilica to Michelangelo’s incredible painting ceiling in the Sistine Chapel, the world’s smallest city is sure to leave a big impression. 

Venice, Italy

The second Italian stop in this Europe itinerary is  Venice , the famous ‘floating city’. Known for gondola rides on the Grand Canal, the imposing St. Mark's Basilica and Doge’s Palace, Venice is sure to keep you busy.  

Make sure you try the seafood and explore the colourful Burano neighbourhood while you’re there. And if bridges are your thing, don’t miss the Rialto Bridge and the Bridge of Sighs. Both are hundreds of years old and bursting with history! 

Zagreb, Croatia

Day 10 to 11.

Your adventure continues with a stop in the Croatian capital of  Zagreb ! This often-overlooked destination is full of museums, galleries and cultural attractions to explore. Check out King Tomislav Square, a beautiful green space found in the city centre, St. Mark’s Church and the Cathedral of Zagreb. For those looking for quirkier experiences, pay a visit to the  Museum of Broken Relationships  – an entire museum dedicated to failed romantic relationships! 

Budapest, Hungary

Day 12 to 14.

From the imposing Hungarian Parliament Building and Buda Castle to views of the Danube River. Hungary’s major city of  Budapest  has something for every traveller! Relax and let your worries wash away with a visit to the Széchenyi Thermal Bath or be moved by the Shoes on the Danube Bank memorial honouring the Jews who were killed there during World War Two.  

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, make sure you save some time to wander Budapest’s beautiful streets. Sampling some local delicacies, like Kürtőskalács (a delicious, sweet treat) and goulash, is also highly recommended! 

Athens, Greece

Day 15 to 18.

Next up on our three-week Europe itinerary is  Athens , the birthplace of modern democracy and Western civilisation. Once one of the world’s most influential cities, Athens is full of ancient monuments to marvel at, like the Parthenon and the Panathenaic Stadium. Don’t miss the  National Archaeological Museum  and the  Acropolis Museum  to take in that Greek history before fuelling up on souvlaki, moussaka and gyros!

Travel Tips: How Much Does It Cost To Go To The UK & Europe?

Istanbul, turkey, day 19 to 21.

This adventure ends in  Istanbul , a major city in Turkey and well worth a visit! Don't miss the iconic Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, Hagia Sophia and the Galata Tower. And no trip to Istanbul would be complete without a wander through the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s biggest and oldest covered markets! It’s the perfect spot to pick up some unique Turkish souvenirs for your family and friends back home.  

Itinerary Three: Scandinavia

Copenhagen, denmark.

Our third itinerary starts further north, in chilly  Copenhagen ! Don’t miss  Tivoli Gardens , one of the oldest amusement parks in the world, or the famous Little Mermaid statue. Do as the locals do and get around by bicycle, eat in some of the world’s best-hatted restaurants and explore Freetown Christiania, the self-governing community in the heart of the city. 

If you want to see Scandinavia a little differently, cruising is a great option! For more information on cruising post-COVID-19, see  How Safe Is Cruising Post COVID-19?

Stockholm, Sweden

Next stop,  Sweden ! Immerse yourself in culture by exploring the narrow, cobbled streets and impressive historic buildings of Gamla Stan,  Stockholm’s  Old Town. After you’re done there, head to the  Vasa Museum  for the chance to admire and learn all about the Vasa, a well-preserved seventeenth-century warship. Museum-lovers might also like to check out  ABBA The Museum , Stockholm Medieval Museum and the  Viking Museum . 

Helsinki, Finland

Time to visit another major Scandinavian city –  Helsinki ! Located on the Gulf of Finland in the country’s south, Helsinki is the perfect place to unwind for a day or two.

Explore the vibrant Market Square for traditional food options and unique souvenirs paired with striking views out over the South Harbour. In winter, you’ll find heated café tents waiting to keep you warm while you enjoy your hot chocolate or coffee and soak in the atmosphere! Feeling adventurous? Take a ferry out to the UNESCO World Heritage Listed  Suomenlinna Fortress , an eighteenth-century island fortress.  

Rovaniemi, Finland

Day 8 to 11.

Onwards and upwards!  Rovaniemi , the capital of  Lapland , is the next stop on this three-week itinerary. Known as the Official Hometown of Santa Clause, Rovaniemi is the perfect place to get into the Christmas spirit – no matter what time of year you visit!  

Spend a full day exploring  Santa Clause Village . Meet Santa Clause, hang out with the reindeer and enjoy Christmas-themed Arctic cuisine. And what better time to get started on the Christmas shopping? Oh, and keep your eyes on the skies when the sun goes down in case the northern lights decided to come out and play. 

Lofoten Islands, Norway

Looking for something a little more remote? You’ll love this next stop! The natural beauty of the Lofoten Islands dotted along the northern Norwegian coastline is unforgettable. It's also far enough north to experience the midnight sun when visiting in the summer or to search for the northern lights in winter.  

Explore small fishing villages, feast on some of the freshest seafood around or brave the arctic waters (wetsuits definitely required) and go surfing. Yes, you read that right!  

Oslo, Norway

Time to go to  Oslo ! Visit the Bygdøy Peninsula for the city’s best museums (try the  Norwegian Maritime Museum , the  Norwegian Folk Museum  and the  Fram Museum ) and incredible hiking trails. 

Visit Akershus Castle and Fortress to learn about Oslo’s medieval history. Then, go tobogganing in Korketrekkeren or try Fårikål (lamb and cabbage stew – a Norwegian favourite). No matter how you spend your time here, Oslo is sure to keep you busy! 

Reykjavik, Iceland

Day 18 to 21.

The last stop on this epic three-week adventure is the charming city of  Reykjavik ! Admire the striking architecture of Hallgrímskirkja church and be sure to check out the famous Sun Voyager sculpture. You’ll also want to make time for a mosey down Laugavegur, Reykjavik’s main shopping street, for souvenirs and a coffee. 

There are lots of incredible day trips (or multi-day trips if you have the time) that depart Reykjavik and explore other attractions in  Iceland ! Try planning a day trip to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, Thingvellir National Park, the  Blue Lagoon  or Geysir. 

There are so many ways to enjoy your trip to  Europe  or  the UK . Be inspired by the itineraries above or plan your own travel itinerary. However you choose to spend your weeks in Europe or the UK, you’re sure to make memories that will last a lifetime.  

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3 Week Europe Itinerary: 10 Perfect Ideas

Are you looking for the best 3 Week Europe Itinerary? You’ve come to the right place.

Whether you are looking for classic Europe routes, driving itineraries, options for travel by train, or off-the-beaten path discoveries, we have you covered. 

These amazing European Itineraries cover everything from fairytale towns to UNESCO World Heritage Sites and everything in between.

Ready to find your dream 3 week Europe itinerary? Let’s go!

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Unforgettable Europe in 3 Weeks – 10 Itineraries

1. where is the best place to visit in europe for the first time – england, france, the netherlands, and belgium.

If this is your first visit to the European continent, this is the ideal introduction.

Embarking on your maiden voyage to Europe? What better way to initiate your experience than through these four captivating countries? Each one offers a rich history, cultural variety, and culinary wonders.

This itinerary promises diverse and rich encounters during this 3-week adventure. These are some of the most popular destinations in Western Europe, so be sure to plan your trip early.

Hitting the Highlights – London, Paris, Amsterdam, and Brussels

• Day 1-5: London, England
• Day 6-10: Paris, France
• Day 11-15: Amsterdam, The Netherlands 
• Day 16-21: Brussels, Belgium 

DAY 1-5: London, England

Kick off your 3-week European adventure in England’s capital, London . A city steeped in history, here you will find some of the world’s most iconic landmarks, elegant squares, and vibrant neighborhoods.

Explore the Tower of London , Tower Bridge, Westminster Abbey, and Big Ben in your first couple of days.

For a bird’s eye view of the city head to the London Eye, Sky Garden, or the Shard. Be sure to catch the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace and spend time relaxing in Hyde Park.

For a true taste of British culture, we recommend a traditional afternoon tea experience at one of the city’s luxury hotels or the Brigit’s Bakery Bus tour offering tea and scones on wheels.

DAY 6-10: Paris, France

On Day 6, take a train ride or catch a quick flight from London to Paris. There are plenty of direct flights on budget airlines like easyJet or Ryanair. Spend the next few days immersed in the romantic capital of France.

No visit to Paris would be complete without  ascending the Eiffel Tower  or exploring the world-renowned Louvre museum. Stroll through the cobblestone streets of Montmartre and treat yourself to a delicious croissant from a local boulangerie.

At night, take a cruise along the Seine where you can admire the beautifully lit buildings and their reflections upon the water.

DAY 11-15: Amsterdam, The Netherlands

On Day 11, catch a train from Paris to Amsterdam . Wander aimlessly through the city’s streets, crossing over canals and exploring the neighborhoods.

There are so many fun and unique things to do in Amsterdam . Don’t miss a visit to the Van Gogh Museum , the Anne Frank House, and the Rijksmuseum.

Spend some time in Vondelpark and try traditional Dutch pancakes.

Some of our favorite day trips from Amsterdam include:

• Rotterdam to see the Cube Houses and explore the charming area of Delfshaven
• Volendam where you can learn how to make clogs and sample some cheese
• The Hague is home to Dutch Parliament and Mauritshuis where you can see the painting “Girl with a Pearl Earring”

DAY 16-21: Brussels, Belgium

On Day 16, travel from Amsterdam to Brussels, the final stop of this 3 week Europe itinerary. Experience Belgium’s vibrant history and architecture at the Grand Place, and don’t miss a chance to taste some famous Belgian chocolates and waffles.

Plan a day trip to Bruges and Ghent to experience some of Belgium’s most beautiful towns. Take a canal ride in Bruges and go back in time at Gravensteen Castle in Ghent.

What is the Best Time for this Itinerary?

The mild months of May, June, and September are perfect. The weather is usually comfortable and tourist crowds are manageable.

2. Timeless Journey through Classic Europe: France, Italy, Greece

If you are looking for a classic Central Europe vacation, why not take on this itinerary that hits the major highlights?

This tour offers an unmatched experience, covering three monumental countries. Each destination is uniquely steeped in ancient history, brimming with vibrant culture and culinary delights, promising a multifaceted tour through Europe.

Visiting the Classical Capitals of Europe

• Day 1-7: Paris, France
• Day 8-14: Rome, Italy
• Day 15-21: Athens, Greece

DAY 1-7: Paris, France

Begin your 3-week European holiday in France’s capital, Paris. The city captures hearts with its iconic landmarks, artistic heritage, and culinary sensations.

Paris offers plenty of unique tours that appeal to families. Step back in time and visit the Palace of Versailles (don’t forget to spend a little time in Versailles – the town!). Take a bike tour at Versailles , learn how to make macarons with a local chef , or dig into the city’s history on a Context Travel tour .

Ascend the Eiffel Tower, a timeless symbol of Paris, for a panoramic view of the city. Don’t miss the opportunity to stroll down the historic Champs-Élysées and visit the famous Notre Dame Cathedral (note – you can’t access the inside until December 2024, but it is still worth a visit).

With extra days you can taste your way through the  Champagne Region of France , or take day trips from Paris . Head to Normandy to learn about World War II history or visit the chateaux and wine estates of the Loire Valley.

DAY 8-14: Rome, Italy

On Day 8, embark on a flight from Paris to Rome. Dedicate the following week to discovering Italy’s capital, also known as the Eternal City.

Visit the historic sites in Rome . Explore the Colosseum, wander through the Roman Forum, and marvel at the splendor of St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City. Unleash your inner foodie with a traditional pasta or gelato-making class.

Don’t forget to explore the cobblestone streets of Trastevere, known for its vibrant nightlife and traditional Italian cuisine.

Explore the ancient ruins at Ostia Antica, visit two World Heritage sites in one day at Tivoli, and throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain.

If you have extra days, you can spend a day at the beach in Ostia, take in the art and architecture of Florence , or discover the lost city of Pompeii .

DAY 15-21: Athens, Greece

On Day 15, you’ll fly from Rome to Athens , the culmination of this classic European route. Athens is known as the cradle of Western civilization and democracy.

History unfolds as you step into the Acropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage site that is home the Parthenon, Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike.

The archaeological richness continues at the Ancient Agora, the nucleus of political and public life in ancient Athens.

The National Archaeological Museum is a must-visit, with artifacts spanning 5,000 years of Greek history.

Complete your Athens experience with a walk around the old neighborhood of Plaka, nestled at the foot of the Acropolis. Make plans to enjoy the sunset and breathtaking city views from Mount Lycabettus. 

Discover the temple of Apollo at Delphi and enjoy the island life away from the hustle and bustle of Athens in Aegina.

If you want to explore other islands, we recommend Crete, Santorini, Naxos, and Paros. Grab this Greece itinerary if you want everything planned for you!

When is the Best Time to Visit?

Enjoy this timeless journey during the Spring (April to June) and Autumn (September to October). During these months, the weather is typically pleasant and tourist crowds are fewer, ensuring a more relaxing trip.

3. Nordic Adventure: Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Denmark

If you want to soak up Scandinavian and Baltic cultures, head to these Nordic countries. Here you will be met with unbelievable natural beauty and unique adventures.

This trip to Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Denmark allows you to dive into their different cultures and create a 3-week experience you won’t soon forget.

The Best of the Nordic Countries

• Day 1-6: Oslo, Norway
• Day 7-11: Copenhagen, Denmark
• Day 12-16: Stockholm, Sweden
• Day 17-21: Helsinki, Finland

DAY 1-6: Oslo, Norway

Begin your Nordic journey in Norway’s capital, Oslo . The city seamlessly blends urban life with outdoor fun. Oslo boasts a range of must-see landmarks.

Visit the expansive Vigeland Park, delve into the Viking history at the Viking Ship Museum, and enjoy panoramic city views from the Holmenkollen Ski Jump.

Make time to travel the Norway in a Nutshell route to see the country’s breathtaking scenery.

DAY 7-11: Copenhagen, Denmark

On day seven make your way from Oslo to Copenhagen by train (7.5 hours) or plane (1 hour 10 minutes). The vibrant Nyhavn harbor, the enchanting Tivoli Gardens, and the iconic Little Mermaid statue await you in Copenhagen.

Our favorite day trips include Frederiksborg Castle, a quick 40-minute train ride to Hillerød, where you can explore the town, castle, and its gardens. For those who want to learn about Viking history, head to Roskilde where you can visit the Viking Museum and even head out on a Viking ship.

We highly recommend using a Copenhagen card for discounts on attractions and transportation. Wrap up your journey with Danish smørrebrød, cinnamon snails ( kanelsnegl ), and a local beer.

DAY 12-16: Stockholm, Sweden

On Day 12, make your way from Stockholm to Helsinki. It’s an easy flight with Norwegian, SAS, or Finnair. If you prefer the long route, there are ferries available.

The next five days are filled with Swedish splendor, from the streets of Gamla Stan to the impressive Vasa Museum , and the tranquil setting of Djurgården Island.

We also recommend the Skansen living history museum, learning about Swedish royalty at The Royal Palace, and visiting the city’s ICEBAR.

DAY 17-21: Helsinki, Finland

This last leg of your journey lets you explore Finland’s capital city of Helsinki with its avant-garde architecture, the historic Suomenlinna sea fortress, and the bustling Market Square.

Don’t forget to unwind in a traditional Finnish sauna and plunge into the ocean. If you would like to squeeze in one more country board a ferry for a day trip to Tallinn , Estonia. (And here’s what to do in Tallinn when you get there).

When is the Best Time to Visit Scandinavia?

The perfect window for this Nordic Adventure is during the summer months, from June to August. The weather is at its best, offering endless daylight due to the Midnight Sun, providing ample time to explore the stunning landscapes of the North.

4. Fairy Tale Road Trip: Germany, Austria, Czech Republic, and Hungary

Want to explore the far-away lands depicted in fairytales? Prepare for an enchanting 3-week journey through Germany, Austria, the Czech Republic, and Hungary. 

Each country has its own vibrant history, breathtaking landscapes, and fascinating architecture. A trip to these countries takes you straight to the land of fairytales.

A Classic Trip through the land of stories

• Day 1-6: Munich, Germany 
• Day 7-11: Prague, Czech Republic
• Day 12-16: Vienna, Austria
• Day 17-21: Budapest, Hungary

DAY 1-6: Munich, Germany

Start your fairytale journey in Munich , Germany. A city renowned for its historic charm, Munich offers stunning palaces, an automobile museum, and world-famous beer halls.

Explore the scientific artifacts at the Deutsches Museum, enjoy a traditional beer at the famous Hofbräuhaus, learn about automobile history at the BMW Museum, and soak up the cultural atmosphere in Marienplatz.

Take a day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle , known for its striking beauty that inspired Disney’s Sleeping Beauty castle.

Don’t forget to sample the hearty local cuisine, including pretzels, weisswurst, and strudel.

Of course, if you are in town at the end of September join in the largest beer festival in the world, Oktoberfest!

DAY 7-11: Prague, Czech Republic

On Day 7, travel from Munich to Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic and one of the cheaper cities in Europe for those on a budget. Known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant nightlife, Prague is a city that never ceases to amaze. 

Explore Prague Castle, stroll across the Charles Bridge, and enjoy a traditional Czech meal accompanied by a pint of their world-renowned beer.

Take a day trip to Cesky Krumlov to see one of the most beautiful places in the Czech Republic and explore the most quaint town you will ever visit.

DAY 12-16: Vienna, Austria

On Day 12, continue your journey to Vienna , Austria. The Austrian capital, synonymous with imperial palaces, musical heritage, and stunning architecture, promises a wealth of experiences.

Visit the opulent Schönbrunn Palace , stroll through the historic city center (a UNESCO World Heritage site), and enjoy a classical music concert at the Vienna State Opera. These are both some of the most beautiful places in Austria .

We recommend a guided walking tour, bicycle tour, or Segway tour that explores the famous sites in Vienna.

DAY 17-21: Budapest, Hungary

On Day 17, set off to Budapest , the final stop on this fairytale journey. The Danube River divides the city into Buda and Pest, and each one offers unique attractions and experiences. Don’t miss the imposing Buda Castle or the famous  Széchenyi Thermal Bath .

As night falls, witness the city’s iconic structures light up, such as the Chain Bridge and Hungarian Parliament building. We recommend taking a river cruise at night to see everything in its splendor.

We recommend taking a food tour to try lángos, strudel, and Hungarian wine.

Best Time to Visit the Magical Cities

To fully enjoy the outdoor adventures and stunning landscapes of this route, the best time to visit is during the spring (April to June) or autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller.

5. Discovering Hidden Gems: Slovenia, Croatia, Montenegro, and Bosnia and Herzegovina

Delve into the European countries that were once one country – Yugoslavia. Head away from the well-traveled tourist routes on this 3-week Europe itinerary. You’re about to discover the underrated countries of Slovenia, Croatia, Montenegro, and Bosnia and Herzegovina. 

Each country has its unique allure. You will find vibrant cityscapes, idyllic landscapes, and an array of historical and cultural treasures. It’s a destination you’ll want to return to time and time again.

The Gems of Former Yugoslavia

• Day 1-6: Ljubljana and Bled, Slovenia
• Day 7-11: Zagreb and Plitvice Lakes, Croatia
• Day 12-16: Sarajevo and Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Day 17-21: Kotor and Durmitor National Park, Montenegro

DAY 1-6: Ljubljana and Bled, Slovenia

Begin your unique journey in the picturesque city of Ljubljana, one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia . Get lost in Old Town, peppered with vibrant cafés and marked by the distinct Ljubljana Castle dominating the city skyline.

Take a leisurely cruise on the Ljubljanica River, flanked by lush green banks and elegant bridges, like the famed Triple Bridge and Dragon Bridge.

A day trip to Lake Bled is a magical experience. Nestled in the Julian Alps, this emerald-green lake, with a small island home to a 17th-century church and an imposing medieval castle perched on a hill, is nothing short of a fairy-tale scene.

Don’t miss the chance to ring the church bell on the island and make a wish!

DAY 7-11: Zagreb and Plitvice Lakes, Croatia

On Day seven, make your way to Croatia’s lively capital, Zagreb. Explore the historic Gornji Grad, home to the brightly tiled St Mark’s Church, and visit the quirky Museum of Broken Relationships.

Delight in local dishes like “strukli” in the bustling Dolac Market.

A trip to Plitvice Lakes National Park is an absolute must for nature enthusiasts.

The park is a magical world of 16 interconnected lakes, cascading waterfalls, and lush woodland home to diverse wildlife, including bears and wolves.

DAY 12-16: Sarajevo and Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina

On day twelve, head to the captivating city of Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina’s capital. Explore the historical Bascarsija old bazaar, visit the Gazi Husrev-bey Mosque, and learn about the city’s recent history at the Sarajevo Tunnel Museum.

Savor local delights like cevapi, a grilled dish of minced meat, and burek, a meat-filled flaky pastry.

Make sure to spend a day in the historic city of Mostar, known for its iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge), quaint cobbled streets, and lively marketplaces.

DAY 17-21: Kotor and Durmitor National Park, Montenegro

End your European vacation in the town of Montenegro, Kotor. Walk the cobblestone streets of the Old Town, lined with medieval stone buildings, and visit the remarkable Kotor Cathedral.

The strenuous but rewarding hike up to the ancient San Giovanni Fortress rewards you with panoramic views over the Bay of Kotor.

Extend your Montenegro experience with a visit to Durmitor National Park. Explore its dramatic landscape featuring towering peaks, deep canyons, dense pine forests, and the enchanting Black Lake.

Best Time to Visit These Hidden Gems

 Experience these destinations in all their glory during the mild seasons of spring (April to June) or early autumn (September to October). During these times the weather is pleasantly warm and the crowds are smaller.

6. Time for Sunshine: Greece, Spain, Portugal, and France

Want to soak up the sunshine on your European journey? This route is the ultimate combo for beach lovers.

The Europe trip itinerary moves you through Greece, Spain, Portugal, and France – countries celebrated for their stunning coastlines and unique food and drink.

Your 3-week Europe trip is set to offer an eclectic blend of sunbathing, swimming, and adventure.

Beach Lovers Europe Itinerary

• Day 1-5: Athens, Greece
• Day 6-10: Nice, France
• Day 11-15: Barcelona, Spain
• Day 16-21: Lisbon, Portugal

DAY 1-5: Athens, Greece

Your beach tour kicks off in Athens , Greece. From the historic Parthenon to the mesmerizing beaches of the Athenian Riviera, there’s a wealth of experiences waiting.

Soak up the sun at Astir Beach Club, go shopping in the Plaka district, or learn about Ancient Greece at the National Archaeology Museum .

DAY 6-10: Nice, France

Catch a flight to the glamorous city of Nice, France. The city’s stunning beaches on the French Riviera , such as Blue Beach or Opera Plage, are an ideal spot to unwind.

DAY 11-15: Barcelona, Spain

Next, head to Barcelona, a city renowned for its urban beaches and Gothic architecture. Head to Barceloneta Beach in the city center, explore La Boquería market, and marvel at Gaudi’s famous works.

DAY 16-21: Lisbon, Portugal

End your trip in the fabulous city of Lisbon . There are beautiful beaches in the surrounding region, perfect for day trips.

Head to the Belém district where you can learn about famous Portuguese explorers, wander the courtyard of a 16th-century monastery, and sample the famous custard tarts at Pastéis de Belém . Climb to St. George’s Castle for stunning city views.

Visit Cascais, Costa da Caparica, or Sintra for some time at the beach.

Best Time to Visit Mediterranean Beaches

The summer months, from June to August, are ideal for this itinerary, ensuring sunny weather for the ultimate beach relaxation. However, for smaller crowds, opt for late spring (May) or early fall (September).

7. The Baltics: Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia

Are you an adventurous traveler that loves exploring lesser-known destinations? The Baltic route , traversing through Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia, could be your ideal itinerary.

Each of these Northern European countries boasts a unique character, abundant with medieval charm, unspoiled natural landscapes, and a distinct cultural vibrancy.

Embarking on this 3-week journey offers you a chance to uncover Europe’s hidden gems.

Best of the Baltics

• Day 1-5: Vilnius, Lithuania
• Day 6-10: Riga, Latvia
• Day 11-15: Tartu, Estonia
• Day 16-21: Tallinn, Estonia

DAY 1-5: Vilnius, Lithuania

Begin your journey in the captivating city of Vilnius, Lithuania’s capital. The city’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is filled with Baroque architecture set against the backdrop of cobblestone streets.

While here, explore the grandeur of Vilnius Cathedral, climb the Gediminas’ Tower for a sweeping view of the city, and pay a visit to the Bohemian neighborhood of Užupis.

Round off your Lithuanian adventure by tasting traditional dishes like cepelinai (potato dumplings) and kibinai (pastries filled with mutton and onion).

DAY 6-10: Riga, Latvia

Set course for Riga, Latvia’s capital, next. Riga’s skyline is dotted with spires reflecting its rich Art Nouveau heritage.

Wander through the picturesque Old Town, stand in awe of the Riga Cathedral’s beauty, and explore the bustling Central Market. Be sure to sample local specialties such as rye bread and smoked fish.

For a refreshing break, head to the pristine beaches of Jūrmala, just a short trip from the city center.

DAY 11-15: Tartu, Estonia

The next stop is Tartu, Estonia’s second-largest city, renowned as the country’s cultural and intellectual hub.

Visit the University of Tartu, the oldest university in Estonia, and stroll around Toome Hill Park, the city’s green heart.

Tartu’s Old Town is a blend of historical buildings and a vibrant street culture. Treat yourself to the local cuisine, particularly the Sült (jellied meat) and Kama (a traditional dessert).

DAY 16-21: Tallinn, Estonia

The final leg of your journey brings you to Tallinn, one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe.

Stroll the Old Town and admire the old buildings and stone towers, and be sure to visit the grand Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.

Explore the seafaring history at the Maritime Museum in the Seaplane Harbour, and relax in one of the city’s many parks.

Best Time to Visit The Baltic Capitals

To enjoy the Baltics in all their glory, consider visiting between May and September. The weather is typically mild and the landscapes are in full bloom. Summer days extend into long, light-filled evenings, perfect for exploring.

8. Christmas Market Tour: Germany, France, Switzerland, and Austria

Nothing encapsulates the magic of the holiday season quite like the traditional Christmas markets of Europe . 

This specially curated tour takes you through the heart of four countries that really celebrate the holiday season – Germany, France, Switzerland, and Austria. 

Each of these destinations boasts its own unique festive traditions, tantalizing local delicacies, and colorful markets, transforming your 3-week journey into a dreamy holiday extravaganza.

Christmas Market Highlights

• Day 1-5: Frankfurt, Germany
• Day 6-10: Strasbourg, France
• Day 11-15: Zurich, Switzerland
• Day 16-21: Innsbruck, Austria

DAY 1-5: Frankfurt, Germany

Begin your holiday journey in Frankfurt, home to one of Germany’s largest and oldest Christmas markets.

Held in the historic Römerberg Square, this market comes alive with over 200 beautifully decorated stalls offering a variety of gifts, from intricate Christmas decorations to handmade crafts.

Treat yourself to traditional German holiday specialties, such as lebkuchen (gingerbread), stollen (fruit bread), and a warm glass of apple wine.

Don’t miss a chance to enjoy the view of the market from above by climbing up the tower of St. Nicholas Church.

DAY 6-10: Strasbourg, France

Board a train to Strasbourg, lovingly known as the “Capital of Christmas.” Its Christmas market, dating back to 1570, now extends beyond the area surrounding Strasbourg Cathedral into the rest of the city.

As you wander through the 300 stalls, sample traditional Alsatian Christmas delicacies, including bretzels (pretzels), spiced biscuits, and vin chaud (mulled wine).

Take a stroll through La Petite France, the city’s historic district, adorned with decorations and lights. It’s a romantic place to explore any time of day or night.

DAY 11-15: Zurich, Switzerland

Zurich ‘s Christmas markets transform the city during the holiday season. Not-to-miss markets include the Christkindlimarkt at the main train station and the Wienachtsdorf near the water.

Another favorite is the singing Christmas tree and market that offers various performers throughout the season sharing their favorite Christmas carols.

Don’t miss a stroll along the Bahnhofstrasse, one of the world’s most exclusive shopping avenues. Climb Lindenhof Hill or the steps of Grossmünster Cathedral for beautiful city views. Be sure to sample Swiss fondue and chocolate during your visit.

DAY 16-21: Innsbruck, Austria

In the heart of the Austrian Alps lies Innsbruck, a true winter wonderland. With twinkling lights, snow-covered roofs, and majestic mountains, it’s an idyllic setting for the city’s Christmas markets.

Families should explore historic landmarks like the Golden Roof and St. Anne’s Column. For those wanting adventure, the nearby Nordkette mountain range offers winter activities like skiing, snowboarding, and tobogganing. The breathtaking panoramic views from the cable car are sure to take everyone’s breath away.

Be sure to indulge in traditional Austrian delights like freshly baked strudel, warm chestnuts, and gingerbread cookies.

Innsbruck’s Christmas markets create a magical backdrop for families exploring Europe during the holiday season.

When is the Best Time to Visit the Christmas Markets 

The best time to visit Europe’s Christmas markets is from the end of November through December. During this time the markets are in full operation, and the European cities are filled with holiday spirit.

9. Highlights of the British Isles: England, Scotland, Wales, and Ireland

Culturally and geographically diverse, a three-week itinerary through these cities and their surroundings is an unforgettable experience. This trip appeals to history buffs, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who loves the blending of the past and present that the British Isles have to offer. UK family holidays are made for all types of travelers.

These nations have a common history but each has a unique story to tell.

This 3-week exploration through England, Scotland, Wales, and Ireland promises to delight every member of the family.

Best of the British Isles

• Day 6-10: Cardiff, Wales
• Day 11-15: Dublin, Ireland
• Day 16-21: Edinburgh, Scotland

We think London is the perfect blend of history, culture, and entertainment. It won’t be a struggle to spend 5 days in this gorgeous city.

Visit iconic landmarks like the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace, explore the British Museum, and find time to relax in Hyde Park or Regents Park.

The West End delights with kid-friendly shows like Matilda and The Lion King .

Day trips to the Harry Potter Studio Tour or Windsor Castle shouldn’t be missed. It’s easy to navigate London transportation or explore on foot.

DAY 6-10: Cardiff, Wales

Day 6 you’ll head to Cardiff, a vibrant city in Wales, just under 3 hours by train.

Begin with Cardiff Castle, where kids can be enchanted by the fairy-tale towers and explore all of its nooks and crannies. Bute Park offers tranquil walks and St. Fagans National Museum of History will teach everyone about Welsh heritage.

If you want to explore beyond Cardiff, we recommend day trips to Castle Coch and Caerphilly Castle.

DAY 11-15: Dublin, Ireland

There are a few options for traveling from Cardiff to Dublin. One is to travel to the northern part of Wales where you can catch a ferry from Holyhead to Dublin. It takes about 2.5 hours. If you don’t want to make the drive, there are non-stop flights between Cardiff and Dublin on Ryanair.

Dublin offers history, culture, and a lot of green space. Don’t miss the EPIC Irish Emigration Museum and the national museums which are all free.

Take a stroll through Phoenix Park or St. Stephen’s Green. Learn about Ireland’s political history at Kilmainham Gaol. Kids and adults alike will also enjoy a tour of Guinness Storehouse where you can grab a bite to eat, sample draft beer, and take in city views from the Gravity Bar.

DAY 16-21: Edinburgh, Scotland

Finish this itinerary in Edinburgh , an easy one-hour flight from Dublin. The city has a rich history, stunning architecture, and amazing summer festivals. Be sure to explore Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace to learn about British royalty and their Scottish connections.

Shop along the Royal Mile, hike up Arthur’s Seat for panoramic views or take a city ghost tour . No matter what you choose, Edinburgh is sure to please all ages.

What is the Best Time to Visit the British Isles?

To fully enjoy this itinerary, we recommend visiting from April to June or September to October. During these times the weather may be cold and rainy, or warm and sunny. It’s very unpredictable, but you will enjoy fewer crowds, which is always a bonus.

10. Eastern Europe Route: Germany, Poland, Hungary, and Romania

Embark on an unexplored journey to Eastern Europe, where history comes alive in the stunning architecture, ancient cities, and rich cultural traditions of Germany, Poland, Hungary, and Romania. 

This 3-week journey offers an authentic, immersive experience that breaks away from the typical tourist paths.

Eastern Europe Explorer

• Day 1-5: Berlin, Germany
• Day 6-10: Warsaw, Poland
• Day 11-15: Budapest, Hungary
• Day 16-21: Bucharest, Romania

DAY 1-5: Berlin, Germany

First up on this itinerary is Berlin, a city that has witnessed pivotal moments in modern history. Reflect on the Cold War era as you explore remnants of the Berlin Wall. Visit the Brandenburg Gate, an iconic symbol of European unity and peace.

Explore Museum Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site housing five of Berlin’s most important museums. The Pergamon has a vast collection of antiquities, and the Neues Museum has the famous bust of Nefertiti.

Round off your stay in Berlin with a visit to the historic Alexanderplatz and the Berlin Cathedral.

DAY 6-10: Warsaw, Poland

Next up is Warsaw, the resilient capital of Poland. Walk along the Royal Route, witnessing centuries-old palaces, churches, and statues. Tour the meticulously restored Royal Castle, home to numerous works of art. 

Visit Wilanów Palace, a pearl of Polish Baroque architecture surrounded by magnificent gardens. 

Learn about the city’s wartime past at the Warsaw Uprising Museum and the POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews . 

Indulge in traditional Polish dishes, from comforting pierogi dumplings to the hearty hunter’s stew, bigos.

DAY 11-15: Budapest, Hungary

From Warsaw head to Budapest, Hungary’s illustrious capital, known for its thermal baths and art nouveau architecture. 

Visit Buda Castle, situated on Castle Hill, with fabulous views of the Danube and the Pest side of the city. 

Explore Gellért and Széchenyi Thermal Baths for a relaxing, quintessential Budapest experience. 

DAY 16-21: Bucharest, Romania

Finish your Eastern European odyssey in Bucharest, Romania. Visit the colossal Palace of the Parliament, the world’s heaviest building created by the notorious former dictator Nicolae Ceaușescu. Families will be pleasantly surprised by all of the fun things to do in Bucharest with kids .

Explore the historic Lipscani district, where cobblestone streets are lined with bustling cafes, bohemian boutiques, and vibrant nightlife. 

Spend time in Herastrau Park, or take a trip to the Village Museum showcasing traditional Romanian village life. 

If you have time, take a day trip to Transylvania to see a different side of Romania.

What is the Best Time to Visit Eastern Europe?

We recommend exploring this Eastern European route during the shoulder seasons, specifically between April and June or September and October. These periods promise pleasant weather and fewer crowds, making it the perfect opportunity to explore these unique destinations.

How to Plan a 3 Week Europe Itinerary

1. decide where you want to go.

Define what you want to get out of the trip. Is your group interested in history, art, food, adventure, relaxation, or a mix of these? Your interests will guide your choice of destinations

2. Choose your destinations wisely

Research various countries and cities to find ones that match your interests. Aim for a balance between popular spots and lesser-known destinations for a well-rounded experience.

3. How many countries should I visit in Europe in 3 weeks?

This is a personal choice. How often do you want to move accommodation? For three weeks in Europe, we recommend 3 to 4 different locations. Note that travel time between locations can significantly reduce the actual time you have for exploration.

If it is your first time visiting Europe be sure to leave enough time to make connections. Opt for destinations that are closer together or well-connected by efficient transport networks.

4. How Much to Pack for 3 Weeks in Europe

For such a long trip we recommend liming luggage to the essentials . Choose items that mix and match and pack layers.

The weather can vary greatly across Europe, so be sure to check the weather during your trip and pack appropriately.

If it’s an option, book accommodation with a washer and/or dryer so you can pack fewer clothes. Remember, you’ll probably pick up a few souvenirs along the way.

5. Don’t over plan your trip

While it’s tempting to try and see everything, cramming too many activities or cities into your itinerary can lead to burnout. Allow for downtime and spontaneous exploration, especially when traveling with younger kids. Flexibility is key.

6. Research Visa Requirements

Some countries may require visas for entry, so ensure that you’re aware of these requirements and prepare accordingly.

*Note: Starting in 2024, Americans will need authorization through ETIAS to visit 30 European countries. For more information, we recommend this website .

7. How Far in Advance to Book a Trip to Europe

This really depends on your schedule and availability. It also depends on the time of year you plan to travel.

We recommend booking flights and accommodations at least 6 months in advance to get your first choices. Be sure to book your intercity train or plane tickets at the same time.

If there are any must-see attractions or experiences on your list, be sure to book those in advance to prevent disappointment.

8. Purchase Travel Insurance

I’ve had to file two claims in the last two years and I wouldn’t recommend traveling without insurance right now. Travel insurance can provide coverage for unexpected situations such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost luggage.

9. How to Stay Connected in Europe

Consider your options for staying connected, such as getting a local SIM card or portable WiFi. Each carrier offers different coverage. T-Mobile offers an international calling plan, whereas Verizon and AT&T offer a daily rate. Another option is to set phones to airplane mode and use Wi-Fi when available.

Recently we discovered eSIM cards which are very easy to use. Just download the app to your phone and connect through it. We used Airalo and felt it was a great option.

10. How much should I budget for 3 weeks in Europe ?

Unfortunately, it’s not a set number. Nordic countries are typically more expensive than the rest of Europe. Southern countries like Greece, Portugal, and Spain are relatively inexpensive as are the former Yugoslavian countries, Bulgaria, and Romania.

Depending on your travel style and how many people are traveling with you, I think it’s safe to plan on $1000 minimum per week.

Research and plan your budget carefully. You’ll need to be sure to account for transportation, accommodation, food, attractions, and tours at a minimum. We recommend you always carry emergency cash just in case.

Wrap-Up: 3 Week Europe Itinerary

Planning your three-week European adventure can be as exciting as the journey itself.

Whether you’re drawn to the allure of famous landmarks or the charm of hidden gems, there’s an itinerary to fit your interests. Relax in small towns or soak up big-city energy. Europe is a great place to learn about a variety of cultures, sample some amazing cuisine, and check some highlights off your travel bucket list.

Remember to plan thoroughly yet stay flexible, savor each moment, and embrace the unexpected. The memories you’ll create are sure to be priceless. 

This continent’s beauty is unmatched, its heritage profound, and its allure is irresistible. 

About the author: This article was co-written by Kirsten of Kids Are A Trip and Fiona, an Australian Travel Blogger at  Travelling Thirtie s . She has spent the last 13 years traveling Europe extensively and discovered the best ways to spend 21 days in Europe. Kirsten has traveled throughout Europe annually for the last 30 years.

The post 3 Week Europe Itinerary: 10 Perfect Ideas appeared first on Kids Are A Trip™ .

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A Eurail adventure in 7 European countries

If you're spending 3 weeks in Europe and want to get a taste of its most famous cities in one go, this is the route for you! Whether you're a first-timer to Europe or coming back for more, these European capitals and star cities each have their own unique character.

Click here or on the map  to view this route in our Trip Planner.

You can adjust it in any way you want, and we'll show you the recommended Eurail Pass for your trip.

Cities visited in this trip:

1. milan, italy.

Visit young and cosmopolitan Milan, the finest place for Italian cuisine, coffee, and of course, fashion!

Don't miss: the Cathedral Square and its entertaining surroundings. View the city from the cathedral roof.

Got more time? Watch a soccer game at the San Siro stadium. Or take a day trip to celeb hotspot Lake Como.

Video train route Milan - Venice

2. Venice, Italy

Arrive by train in Venice to be greeted by romantic views of canals, bridges, and boats.

Don’t miss: riding a gondola ferry ( traghetto ) across the Grand Canal  or splash out on your own private ride.

Got more time? Stroll from Rialto Bridge to the squares of San Polo for markets and an afternoon spritz.

3. Munich, Germany

The Bavarian blockbuster, Munich. Expect a warm welcome, impressive architecture, and culture galore.

Don't miss: the Kunstareal district . Full of world-class museums and galleries, it has something for everyone.

Got more time? Stroll through the Englischer Garten and catch the most scenic panoramic view over the whole city from the Monopteros .

4. Vienna, Austria

Follow in the footsteps of Mozart and Beethoven and visit Vienna, where you’re never short on entertainment.

Don't miss: the Schönbrunn Palace with its extensive gardens, sculptures, and truly decadent interior.

Got more time? Get your thrills at the Vienna Prater , the world’s oldest amusement park.

Video train route Vienna - Budapest

5. Budapest, Hungary

Explore the grand sights of Budapest. Check out Buda Castle by day, and the Chain Bridge by night.

Don't miss: the chance to unwind in this spa city. Take a dip in the Gellért or Széchenyi thermal baths .

Got more time? Take the train to Balatonakarattya and around Lake Balaton to see rural Hungarian life.

6. Prague, Czech Republic

From medieval cobbled streets to rooftop restaurants, the magic of Prague will charm you.

Don't miss: the astronomical clock ( orloj ) striking the hour. While you’re there, explore the Old Town Square .

Got more time? Wander from the saintly statues of Charles Bridge up to the splendid castle complex.

7. Berlin, Germany

Historic sites and a vibrant social scene await you in Germany's dynamic, ever-changing capital.

Don't miss: hearing stories at the poignant Berlin Wall Memorial or graffiti-decorated East Side Gallery .

Got more time? Head to the Grunewald for a stroll through woodland or a swim in its freshwater lakes.

8. Amsterdam, Netherlands

The "Dam". Tolerant, open-minded, and a labyrinth of narrow streets and canals. Expect the unexpected.

Must-do: Try a canal cruise for a different perspective of the city. If you prefer dry land, rent a bike!

Got more time? Get intellectual and check Dutch glory at the Rijksmuseum, then chill over a coffee or two...

9. Paris, France

Enjoy the good life in Paris with a baguette and a slice of Brie cheese while resting your feet by the River Seine.

Don't miss: standing before the Eiffel Tower in one of the most Instagram-worthy moments of your life.

Got more time? Check out art classics (think Mona Lisa) at the Louvre or modern art at the Centre Pompidou .

10. Nice, France

It’s time for you to relax and take it easy in the capital of the French Riviera. Nice!

Don't miss: soaking up the sun on the Promenade des Anglais with its cafés, palm trees, and pebble beach.

Got more time? It’s just 7 minutes to sandy beaches in Villefranche-sur-Mer , and 20 to Monte Carlo casino .

If you’re heading back to Milan, change trains in Ventimiglia to get there in just over 5 hours.

Is this itinerary for me?

This itinerary is designed to give you an example of what you can do with a Eurail train pass. It's made for independent travelers who want to shape their own Europe itinerary. Three weeks gives you enough time to spend 2 nights in all these famous cities. In each destination, you have the freedom to make your own plans. The best train pass to use to follow this itinerary is the Eurail Global Pass . It gives you the luxury and flexibility to travel by train in all these countries on any day of your trip. Want to spend more time in one city and less in another? With Eurail, that's not a problem! Simply choose a Pass with a longer validity period.

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A 3 Week Europe Itinerary: From Sweden to Italy

I took my first three week trip to Europe in 2012 . I was 19 years old and it was my first trip to Europe, as well as my first solo trip ever.

That 3 week trip changed my life. It’s why this blog exists and it’s why I fell in love with Europe.

Many years later, and I’m still just as in love with Europe and have been lucky enough to visit many times since, including studying abroad in Amsterdam and living in Prague.

Three weeks is an incredible amount of time to spend in Europe . Of course, it’s not enough to see everything. But it is enough time to get a little taste of what the continent has to offer.

Below I’m sharing a 3 week Europe itinerary that we road tested in 2019 when my mom and Colin’s mom came out to visit us while we were living in Prague. Of all the Europe trips I’ve taken, this is one of my favourites!

This three week itinerary goes from Sweden down to Italy through Czechia and Austria, then back up to France. It’s medium-paced (apx three days per city) and mostly relies on trains, with a flight or rental car thrown in every now and then.

While this itinerary does hit a lot of big cities, it’s balanced with some smaller towns and relaxing nature vibes too . We did this trip in September but I think it would work well at almost any time of year.

So if you’re looking for a pretty perfect itinerary for your time in Europe (in my completely biased opinion), I think this would be a great place to start!

Keep reading for my day by day itinerary breakdown, as well as some alternatives for other ways to spend three weeks in Europe!

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning if you click through and make a purchase, I will earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thanks for your support!

Table of Contents

How to decide where to go in Europe

There are so many places to discover in Europe – it would be impossible to see everything in just three weeks. So you have to narrow it down.

Here are a few things to consider to help you craft your perfect European itinerary:

• What time of year are you travelling? As summer is the hottest and busiest time on the continent, you may want to head to smaller towns in the north to stay cool and less crowded.
• What’s your budget? Places like Scandinavia and the UK are going to be more expensive than the Balkans and most of Eastern Europe.
• Who’s coming with you? Obviously a solo trip itinerary might look pretty different than a group trip with a family of 10.
• Where are you flying in/out of? If you snagged an awesome flight deal , it might make sense to base your trip around your arrival airport.
• What’s your ideal travel pace? While both fast and slow travel have their merits, you should have an idea of how quickly you want to move on this three week trip.
• What do you want to do? Probably the biggest factor in determining your itinerary is what you want to do in Europe. From shopping to sports, there’s something for everyone.

How I planned this 3 week Europe itinerary

The three week itinerary below is based off of a trip my husband and I took with our moms in September 2019. At the time, we were living in Prague and eagre to see as much of Europe as we could, plus show our moms around.

We started with our goals for the trip : My mom wanted to visit friends in Sweden, Colin’s mom wanted to sip wine in Italy, and Colin and I wanted to introduce our moms to our new home in Prague.

That gave us three locations to build our trip around: Sweden, Italy and Prague . We also factored in our moms’ flights (they were flying into London and out of Paris) and our preference to take trains over flights whenever we could.

Plotting all of those places on a map, we charted a course that resulted in the three week itinerary you see below!

3 week Europe trip map & summary

Here’s the route my below itinerary will take, covering some of the highlights all across Europe:

• Fly into Copenhagen, spend the day, then train over to Malmo
• Base in Malmo to explore Southern Sweden
• Fly to Prague and enjoy the city
• Train to Salzburg, live out your Sound of Music fantasies
• Train to Venice, get lost amongst the canals
• Train to Florence, see David and grab your rental car
• Drive into Tuscany and kick back for a few days
• Drop off your car in La Spezia, train to Cinque Terre
• Enjoy Cinque Terre for a few days then train to Pisa
• Take the iconic leaning tower photo then fly from Pisa to Paris
• Discover Paris and then head home

Ready? Let’s dive into the itinerary!

Day 1-3: Copenhagen & Malmo

Your three weeks in Europe starts in Copenhagen, which you can conveniently fly into (or train, if you’re already in Europe) from many major airports.

Spend your first day seeing the sights of Copenhagen . We had a rainy day in Copenhagen but were still able to explore colourful Nyhavn, take a water taxi tour to see the Little Mermaid and visit the Royal Palace.

You can also visit Tivoli Gardens , which look beautiful, and explore the infamous free town of Christiania.

Rather than stay overnight in pricy Copenhagen, take a short 40 minute train to nearby Malmo in Sweden . This is where you’ll base for the first three days of your trip.

On day 2, head out to explore Malmo and the neighbouring university town, Lund . I loved walking through the beautiful university buildings and cathedral in Lund; it was clear to see why friends of mine loved studying abroad there!

In Malmo, I’d recommend going on a canal tour , which is a great way to see the sights and learn about the city. If the weather is bad, take cover in the Moderna Museet Malmö or Malmö Museum in Malmo Castle.

Of course, you have to make time for fika while you’re in Sweden . Fika is the Swedish tradition of taking a break during the day to enjoy some cozy time with friends over a warm beverage and pastry. It’s one of my favourite European traditions!

On day 3, you’re going castle hopping! This is best done by car; you can pick up a rental car for the day in Malmo.

From Malmo, head south to 17th Century Marsvinsholm Castle and Ales Stenar , which I like to think of as Sweden’s version of Stonehenge. Stop in at Olof Viktors for lunch (their crayfish sandwich and carrot cake are an unbeatable combo).

Then, head north to Helsingborg where you’ll board a ferry to Helsingør on the Danish side to eventually reach Kronborg, aka Hamlet’s Castle.

I loved exploring this impressive castle with its giant rooms and tapestries. But the highlight was definitely the casemates where a tour guide showed us around and introduced us to Holger the Dane.

After a big day of driving, return your rental car then catch some zzzs in Malmo before leg two of your trip starts tomorrow!

Check out my full Southern Sweden road trip itinerary for more details!

Day 4-6: Prague

How to get from Malmo to Prague : Train to Copenhagen Airport (25 mins), fly to Prague (80 mins)

Having lived in Prague for almost a year , I’m very excited to include this on your Europe trip itinerary! From Malmo you’ll train to CPH Airport and then take a short flight to Prague.

After your big morning of trains and planes, enjoy a chill first afternoon in Prague by exploring Vysehrad . Vysehrad is Prague’s second castle and, in my opinion, the cooler one.

The castle grounds are really fun to explore, complete with pretty views and a very ornate cemetery. Don’t miss the casemates where you’ll find the original Charles Bridge statues!

PS: We liked this castle complex so much, we did a photoshoot there!

On day 5, I recommend getting a good introduction to Prague with a free walking tour and a boat ride on the Vltava River . While touristy, both of these are a great way to get to know the city.

Finish your day by strolling across Charles Bridge, checking out the penguins and creepy baby statues in Kampa Park, visiting the Lennon Wall and being underwhelmed by the astronomical clock in the Old Town Square.

Start day 6 by heading to Prague Castle , the largest castle complex in Europe . More popular than Vysehrad, this castle may be crowded but it’s still worth visiting to explore all the different buildings and see the epic stained glass in St. Vitus Cathedral.

After a full morning in the castle, relax in nearby Letna Park where you can grab a drink from Letna Beer Garden and enjoy views over the river.

For a slightly more local option, head to Riegrovy Sady. This was our local park when we lived in Prague. It’s a beautiful place to pack a picnic and catch the sunset over the old town.

Get all the details in my 3 day Prague itinerary!

Day 7-9: Salzburg

How to get from Prague to Salzburg : Train (5.5 hrs with one transfer)

You’ll spend a good chunk of day 7 getting from Prague to Salzburg (with an easy transfer in Linz). Luckily, this is an extremely scenic train ride so sit back and enjoy the views!

Salzburg is one of my favourite European cities and definitely one of the most stunning . I’ll cross my fingers you have good weather for your trip so you can take in all these mountain vistas.

Once you arrive on day 7, take some time to settle in . You’ve been pretty go-go-go the first week of your trip, so feel free to take tonight off. Walk around your new neighbourhood and enjoy a nice dinner.

On day 8, head out to explore Salzburg’s old town . You can visit Mirabell Palace and Gardens to reenact scenes from the Sound of Music, see where Mozart once lived, and go up to the Hohensalzburg Fortress.

The Hohensalzburg Fortress was probably my favourite part of Salzburg . I loved exploring this ancient castle complex and the views over the city and valley were spectacular. Colin, our moms and I treated ourselves to dinner up there with a view!

Speaking of the Sound of Music, if you’re a big fan then you should spend day 9 on a Sound of Music bus tour .

Honestly, even if you aren’t a big fan, you should still go on this tour (Colin had never seen the movie and he loved the tour!). It’s a great way to explore outside of Salzburg and see some beautiful lakes, churches and countryside.

Not feeling like a little Do-Re-Mi (because yes, there is a sing-a-long aspect)? Why not try a day trip to Hallstatt instead? We visited Hallstatt in Dec 2019 and found it so charming!

Day 10-12: Venice

How to get from Salzburg to Venice : Train (6 hrs with one transfer)

From Salzburg, it’s another big train ride to the next stop on your itinerary, Venice, Italy! After spending most of day 10 getting to Venice, check into your accommodation and take a stroll around your new neighbourhood.

If you can afford it, I recommend staying right in Venice, rather than back on the mainland . This allows you to be in the heart of the action and experience Venice when the day trippers and cruisers leave.

Spend day 11 exploring Venice – which really means, getting lost! My favourite thing to do in Venice was simply lose myself in the maze of bridges and canals, stumbling upon wine bars, churches and local games of soccer in the local piazza.

Of course, you’ll probably want to visit St. Mark’s Square and the Rialto Bridge. You may also want to take a gondola ride. They’re quite pricy, so we skipped it, but go ahead and splurge if it’s on your bucket list!

On day 12, I recommend heading out on a day trip from Venice . The most popular option is to visit the nearby islands of Burano and Murano.

We did this while we were in Venice and it was really fun to discover these other islands. Burano is famous for its colourful homes and lacework, both of which are beautiful.

And Murano is well known for glass blowing, meaning there are tons of gorgeous glass galleries to discover.

We did this trip by local ferry and while more affordable, I’d strongly recommend taking a tour to Murano and Burano by private boat instead.

We ended up waiting for hours as ferry after ferry passed us. The docks were heaving with people – it was so crowded and so hot! And because the ferries took so long to actually get us, we ended up losing half our day just to waiting.

I wish we had just paid a little bit more and booked a tour. It would have been so much more comfortable and given us more time on the islands.

Find out if Venice is overrated or not in this post!

Day 13-15: Florence & Tuscany

How to get from Venice to Florence : Train (apx 2 hrs)

From Venice, you’re heading to my favourite place in all of Italy, Tuscany! But first, you’re going to have a quick day of art and culture in Florence.

Take a morning train from Venice to Florence , where you’ll arrive just two hours later. Spend the rest of the day taking in as many of Florence’s highlights as possible: Uffizi Gallery, Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Piazza del Duomo, Ponte Vecchio and, of course, Michelangelo’s David statue.

Sadly, we visited Florence on a Monday which is when the Accademia Gallery, home to David, is closed. And after some trouble getting our rental car, we only had time for pizza, gelato and a quick walk past the Duomo and an outdoor statue gallery.

But with better planning luck on your side, you’ll have most of day 13 to discover Florence!

As your day in Florence wraps up, pick up a rental car and drive to your accommodation in Tuscany . I highly recommend booking a Tuscan villa (there’s quite a few on Airbnb) out in the countryside. Depending where in Tuscany you’re staying, this drive should take 30-90 minutes.

We booked a beautiful villa near the small town of Poggibonsi and it’s one of the best places I’ve ever stayed . The home was gorgeous – old on the outside but modern updates on the inside. But the best part was the view!

For days 14 and 15 in Tuscany, I suggest you adopt the routine we established on our trip . Start with lazy mornings hanging around the house, admiring the view and enjoying the slow life.

As you get hungry for lunch, drive to a nearby town. We visited both Siena and San Gimignano easily from our villa. Grab lunch, explore the town and pick up some provisions for dinner.

Back at your villa, make yourself a simple pasta, salad or even just a grazing board. Enjoy it outside while watching the sun set over the Tuscan hills.

You may also want to visit a winery while in Tuscany . We did this on our last day in Tuscany and it was so fun! While I’m not a huge wine drinker, our winery visit also included a tour of the vineyard and multi-course lunch, so there was something for everyone.

Check out this small group wine tasting tour in the Chianti region of Tuscany!

Day 16-17: Cinque Terre

How to get from Tuscany to Cinque Terre : Drive to La Spezia (apx 2 hrs), train to Cinque Terre (apx 20 mins)

After a few days in Tuscany, you’re off to another beautiful place in Italy, Cinque Terre .

Return your rental car in La Spezia, which should be 1-3 hours away depending on where in Tuscany you based. Once in La Spezia, board a quick train for Cinque Terre.

You could also choose to return your car in Florence and train to Cinque Terre from there to avoid paying any one-way car rental fees.

Cinque Terre is a legendary stretch of five small towns on the Italian Riviera , sort of like a more rustic version of the glitzy Amalfi Coast. These towns are picturesque and very popular in the summer.

A lot of people visit Cinque Terre on a day trip , but this itinerary has you staying two nights . That’s what we did on our trip and I’d highly recommend it. The towns are completely different when the day trippers leave.

We stayed in Riomaggiore , which is the first of the five towns and largest of the five, making it easy to base in. But any of the towns would be great!

You’ll likely spend the first half of day 16 getting to Cinque Terre. Once there, I’d recommend exploring 1-2 of the towns . That way, you have fewer towns to get to on day 17.

On day 17, explore the remaining towns that you missed . The towns are easily connected by train, ferry or hiking path. We took the train, which was fast and convenient.

Since you’ll be able to get a head start on the day trippers, I recommend either going out to the furthest town first and working your way back to where you’re staying or visiting the most popular town first.

Manarola is usually considered the most popular of the five towns , as it has the most scenic view. We made the mistake of visiting this town last and it was packed!

On the other hand, Corniglia is the smallest of the towns and the only one that is inland. For that reason, it often gets skipped and is less crowded.

You’ll also want to decide what you want to do in each town . They are quite tiny, so it’s easy to walk around, see the views, pop into shops or grab a bite to eat.

Some of the towns offer something extra, such as the option to swim at the beach in Monterosso (which my mother in law loved!). And, of course, if you’re hiking between the towns, that will take up a lot of your time.

After a full day of exploring, head back to your accommodation and enjoy your final night on the Italian coast.

Day 18: Pisa

How to get from Cinque Terre to Pisa : Train (apx 90 mins)

Sadly, your time in Italy is coming to an end. We have time to tick one more thing off the bucket list when you visit Pisa and pose with the Leaning Tower .

While I wouldn’t go out of my way to see this tourist site, Pisa is actually a convenient place to go on this itinerary. It’s only a 90 minute direct train ride from Cinque Terre and is the closest major airport with flights to your next destination.

So since you have to go to Pisa anyway, why not strike a pose with the leaning tower while you’re there? I know, it’s cheesy. But everyone’s doing it, so you might as well get in on the fun!

Besides the tower, I also really enjoyed strolling around Pisa. In fact, I liked this more, as everywhere that’s not the tower is quiet. Colin and I stumbled upon a really delicious gelato place while exploring Pisa.

After spending most of day 18 in Pisa, head to the airport and fly to Paris, France!

Day 19-21: Paris

How to get from Pisa to Paris : Fly (1 hr 45 mins)

Since you arrived in Paris on day 18, you get to wake up on day 19 with three full days in Paris ahead of you. Oo la la!

You don’t need me to tell you that Paris is a big city with plenty to do. If you’ve never been to Paris before, I recommend spending day 19 seeing the highlights .

To me, that means a walk from the Arc de Triomphe down the Champs-Élysées, over the Pont Alexandre bridge, through Rue Cler to pick up picnic supplies, and over to the iconic Eiffel Tower for a picnic lunch.

In the afternoon, head up to Montmartre where you can check out Sacré-Cœur Basilica, explore the artsy community and maybe see a show at the Moulin Rouge .

On day 20, split your time between museums, churches and parks . The Louvre is popular, but for good reason. Snap a selfie with Mona Lisa and then get as far away from that wing of the museum as possible and you’ll find lots of uncrowded art to discover.

Admire the Notre Dame Cathedral (expected to reopen in late 2024) and Sainte-Chapelle, pop into famous English bookstore Shakespeare and Company, and enjoy some outdoor time at The Luxembourg Gardens.

For day 21, I recommend heading out to Versailles , a popular and worthwhile day trip from Paris . I visited way back in 2012 and was so blown away by the opulence!

Or you could choose to visit Mont-St-Michel, Monet’s garden in Giverny or even Disneyland Paris on day 21. Of course, you may also want to just stay in Paris as there is plenty still to do in the city.

For all the info you need, check out my Paris itinerary and where to stay in Paris on a budget .

And with that, your three weeks in Europe have come to an end! From Paris, you’ll be able to fly to many international destinations directly, which hopefully includes your home airport.

Where else can you go with three weeks in Europe?

Anywhere and everywhere! There are truly so many ways you could spend three weeks in Europe. In case you need a few more suggestions, here are some of my other favourite spots:

• Amsterdam : One of my favourite cities in Europe and perfect for a first time Europe trip as the city is so charming and everyone speaks English. Check out the Anne Frank House, Van Gogh Museum and beautiful canals.
• London : Another favourite European city with charm and English speakers, plus amazing history and an awesome theatre scene.
• Seville : Seville completely stole my heart when we visited in early 2020; the culture, food and architecture were so incredible.
• Slovenia : The country of Slovenia has so many beautiful places to visit; don’t miss Lake Bohinj, Lake Bled and the cool capital of Ljubljana.
• Budapest : Budapest is such a funky city with a ton to do and a lower price tag than some of Europe’s other big cities.
• Ireland : Ireland would be an amazing place to choose if you want to spend your whole three weeks road tripping in one country.

Wrapping up this 3 week Europe itinerary

Three weeks is really such a great amount of time to spend in Europe. Of course, after this three week Europe itinerary, you’ll wish you had three years!

But look at everything you get to do in just three weeks : castle-hop in Sweden and Prague, take in views in Salzburg and Tuscany, get out on the water in Venice and Cinque Terre, and check things off the bucket list in Pisa and Paris.

Of course, there are so many variations this trip could take. There’s an endless number of ways to spend your time in Europe.

But if you’re looking for an itinerary that covers a lot of Europe but doesn’t move to fast, gives you big cities and rural countryside, and features many beautiful views, famous landmarks and great food – this is the 3 week European itinerary for you!

I’d love to know: What do you think of my itinerary? What places would you add or eliminate for your own European trip?

Get more ideas for your Europe itinerary with these posts:

• Where to Go on Your First Trip to Europe
• The Best Places to Travel to in Europe in the Fall
• 8 Underrated European Cities You Should Visit (& 4 Overrated Ones You Can Skip!)
• The Best Places to Visit in Italy for the First Time
• Your Guide to Iceland’s Golden Circle Route
• 7 Day Paris, Brussels & Amsterdam Itinerary
• How to Spend 1 Week in Amsterdam and Paris
• An 8 Week Spain and Portugal Itinerary With My Mom!
• How to Spend 1 Week in Slovenia
• Our European Christmas Market Road Trip

Inspire someone else’s Europe trip – Pin it! 

Riana Ang-Canning is a travel writer who has been sharing her global adventures as the founder of Teaspoon of Adventure since 2012. In that time, Riana has travelled to almost 50 countries on 6 continents, including interning in Eswatini, working in Tokyo, road tripping New Zealand and living abroad in Prague. Riana helps everyday travellers discover the world on a mid-budget, proving that you don't have to be athletic, wealthy or nomadic to have an adventure!

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12 comments.

Wow, sounds like an awesome trip! Enjoy!

Thanks so much, Tanya! Looking forward to it and looking forward to seeing your family over here hopefully soon 🙂

Looks like you’re in for a great 3 weeks travelling around Europe! Lots of variety in the places you’ve chosen. Have a fantastic time!

Thanks so much! Yes, super excited about it!

This is such a cute idea! Love the idea of a roadtrip with my mum. Wish I had your planning skills though!

MB meaghan-bethany.blogspot.com

Thanks so much, Meaghan! I’m super excited about the trip. Hope you can plan something similar one day!

I’m sure your moms were sooo happy to explore all around Europe! Salzburg looks beautiful. I would love to go back to Italy: I remember riding the Eurostar from Florence to Rome and seeing parts of Tuscany.

I hope they are excited! It all starts tomorrow!

Thanks for sharing my gondola hack – I highly recommend it! This sounds like an awesome itinerary and I would love to do something like this with my mom one day!

Thank YOU for sharing your gondola hack! I think we’re going to have to give it a try and hopefully that will satisfy our inner gondola desires. Thanks so much for reading!

This trip sounds absolutely incredible, I hope you have the best time! I’m sure your mums will have an amazing experience too. I’ve been to a lot of the places on your list and Venice is a little underwhelming compared to somewhere like Rome but it’s still beautiful! x

Thanks so much, Sophie! We leave in the morning and I’m so excited! I’ve heard that a lot about Venice so will try to go in with low expectations.

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3 Weeks in Central Europe Itinerary

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I’ve always been kind of scared to travel around Central Europe because of its reputation for being expensive. Now that I finally visited this region of Europe, I can attest that it’s true – not only it’s expensive, but it’s actually very expensive.

I’ve travelled to Scandinavia , which is already known as a costly destination, but Central Europe is different. To be fair, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, and Austria are the three high-cost countries here. While Poland, Czechia, Hungary, and even Germany are reasonable,.

However, it’s so worth it though. The train rides around the Alps, the beautiful scenery, great beer, and overall experience, it has to be visited at least once in your life.

Central Europe is one of the regions stretching from the Baltic Sea to the north of the Adriatic . It has some of the world’s oldest and most well-preserved cities, including Berlin, Bratislava, Budapest, Geneva, Ljubljana, Munich, Prague, Vienna, Warsaw, Krakow, and Hamburg, among others.

Aside from that, Central Europe is very rich in heritage and has tons of languages because of the different countries comprising the region.

Central Europe consists of countries that tourists would be interested in seeing. This comprehensive itinerary is for 3 weeks in Central Europe and will guide you into clusters of lands next to each other, as well as the activities and tourist spots to enjoy.

BASIC TRAVEL TIPS FOR CENTRAL EUROPE

Before we proceed with the list of tourist destinations in those countries, let’s first discuss transportation in Central Europe. Just like with the rest of Europe, getting around isn’t hard at all as tons of public transport is available. You can get around by train, bus, plane, or rent a car.

Perhaps, you might want to consider travelling around Western Europe for 3 weeks during this trip or spend 3 weeks in South Europe .

When is the best time to go to Central Europe

Depending on what you plan to do, Central Europe could be a great place to spend your 3-week holiday any time of the year. If you want a proper beach holiday, you probably shouldn’t go to Central Europe. Enjoy your 3-week vacation in Italy or 3 weeks in East Europe where beaches are desired.

For winter, Central Europe is an incredible destination. If you want to do some skiing during your 3 weeks in Central Europe, you can head to the skiing capital – Switzerland. If that’s not within your budget, Czechia and Poland also have great slopes.

I like going during spring, just before summer, or just before autumn. During this time, the crowd is smaller, and the accommodations and flights can even be cheaper.

Getting around

Travelling by train is the most scenic way to travel in this region. When planning to ride a train, it’s better to book online. You can opt to buy point-to-point tickets if you’re just planning on a short trip, but if you’re travelling across multiple countries, getting a rail pass is better.

Travelling by bus is the cheapest option, but there’s a chance that you might sit on cramped seats and get off the bus for an inspection when crossing borders. 

If you prefer freedom of your time, renting a car and driving on your own is best. A summer road trip in Switzerland is such a scenic experience. If you go to Germany, you are probably curious about driving on the famous no-speed limit autobahn road.

If you’re heading to famous tourist destinations, book at least a month in advance, especially during peak season, which is the summer.

Language and Currency

The countries in Central Europe speak different languages except for Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, which share the language of Deutch (however, different accents should be expected). All countries in Central Europe use Euro, while Switzerland uses the Swiss Franc.

Communicating in Central Europe is pretty straightforward. Most people, especially in big cities speak English. The only time you probably have to pull out your translation app is when you are in rural parts and need to ask for directions.

The road signs might be in the local language if you are driving a rental car. Simply ask a local if you need some help.

A travel visa is easy as well. If you are from North America, some parts of Latin America, Oceania, and Asia – you can enjoy a 90-day visa for free. If you need to apply for a visa, you will get a Schengen visa valid in all EU states and other non-EU countries, including Switzerland.

Although Europe is open to tourism in general, each country has their own entry requirements and policies. Some might request that tourists be fully vaccinated, while others allow non-vaccinated to follow specific protocols.

The same goes for wearing a mask. Some places might still require you to have your mask on while in public places while other countries have removed this mandate.

Other travel tips

Here are some quick tips on tools you might need when planning your itinerary for Central Europe. These are the websites I usually use when booking accommodation, renting a car, finding great tours, and more:

MUST-SEE PLACES IN CENTRAL EUROPE (pinned map)

Click the icon on the top right to enlarge the map. Credit: map data: Google

3 WEEKS IN CENTRAL EUROPE

Now that you should know all the basic things about travelling to Central Europe, let’s dive into two travel itineraries. You can follow this as you wish, get some insight, and create your own 3-week travel itinerary .

If you always have dreamed of visiting the Alps, heading to Central Europe is one of the best ways to explore this region. The Alps stretch from Germany, Austria, Switzerland, France, and also Italy. Visiting in the winter means you can go skiing. You can hike the Alps if you visit from late April to mid-October.

When it comes to other parts of Central Europe, are you familiar with Wes Andersen’s The Grand Budapest Hotel? It is a fantastic film with surreal cinematography and a setting that is actually modelled on the Grand Hotel Pupp in the Czech Republic.

TIP: There’s also a 7-day tour for central Europe featuring Germany, Czechia, Slovakia, Hungary, Austria, and Switzerland. It leaves from Frankfurt, which is perfect if you have limited time.

Itinerary #1: Germany, Poland, Czech Republic

The first triad country for a 3-week vacation in Central Europe is Germany, Poland, and the Czech Republic since they are all neighbouring countries. It is easy to travel from one country to the other. 

Germany and Poland have some beaches for those who love the heat or are fond of taking a dip, but Czechia is landlocked.

Week 1: Germany for 7 days

I’m sure that you’re excited now that we’ve unveiled the first triad countries, and you’ll even be more excited once you read about some of the exciting things about Germany. Starting with food, this country has more than 1,000 varieties, so foodies wouldn’t run out of sausages to sample. 

Oktoberfest originated in this country and is a must-attend event for beer lovers. There are more than 20,000 castles in this country. There’s so much to explore. If you have been to Germany before or you don’t enjoy big cities, there are a lot of German cities that you can visit and still want the whole German experience minus the crowd.

You can also read our itinerary for 3 weeks in Germany if that’s the only place you want to visit during your trip.

Must-see places in Germany :

• Berlin: River Spree , TV Tower (Berliner Fernsehturm), Jewish Museum , Madame Tussauds , Museum Island, Body Worlds , Pergamon Museum , Natural History Museum , Berlin Wall , Berlin Story Museum
• The Black Forest
• Cologne – Cologne Cathedral , Melaten Cemetery , Chocolate Museum , VR Time Travel
• Miniatur Wunderland
• Munich – Old Town and Viktualienmarkt , WWII Walking Tour , Segway Beer Tour , Food Tasting Tour
• Brandenburg Gate
• Neuschwanstein Castle and Linderhof Castle – south of Munich, book a full-day trip

Week 2: Poland for 7 days

Poland is the fifth most populous member state and has the sixth-largest economy in the EU. It currently has 17 UNESCO world heritage sites filled with WWII history and medieval architecture. So much so that you’ll feel as if the time has turned back.

The best way to get to Poland from Germany is by train. You could also ride the bus or fly, which is the fastest but most expensive option. 

Must-see places in Poland

• Krakow: Wieliczka Salt Mine , Auschwitz-Birkenau Camps , Schindler’s Factory , Old Town Segway Tour
• Malbork Castle
• Warsaw: Chopin Concert , POLIN Museum , City Tour
• Crooked Forest

Week 3: Czech Republic for 7 days

The Czech Republic or Czechia, has the most castles in Europe and is the seventh safest country to live in the world. It also has the largest ancient castle; its most popular sport is ice hockey. What I love most about the Czech Republic is the capital city Prague.

This city offers the classic European experience; cobbled stones, castles, tasty beer, and yummy dishes. All without spending too much compared to Germany or Austria. Once you finish exploring all the historical sites of Czechia, don’t forget to treat yourself to a nice dinner (or two!) at one of the best restaurants in Prague .

Coming from Poland, start your trip to Ostrava or travel all the way to Brno and spend 3 days, then finish your trip in Prague and spend 4 days. Just like the transportation from Germany to Poland, the most recommended form of transport from Poland to Czech is via train or bus. Other options include driving a car rental or flying.

Must-see places in Czechia :

• Prague: Evening Cruise , Prague Castle , Sedlec Ossuary, Old Town and Astronomical Clock . St. Vitus Cathedral
• Association of Czech Paradise
• Cesky Krumlov Castle
• Sedlec Ossuary
• The Konopiste Castle
• State Castle and Chateau Český

Itinerary #2: Switzerland, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary

The second cluster of countries for your 3-week holiday in Central Europe are Austra, Slovakia, Hungary, and Switzerland.

The winter months in these countries are from December to February, so the perfect months to travel to these countries if you want to enjoy the snow and do some snow-centric sports and activities are from late December to late February. 

Week 1: Switzerland and Austria for 7 days

3 weeks in Central Europe is simply incomplete without visiting stunning Switzerland. It is a mountainous country with numerous villages, lakes, and the high peaks of the Alps. That’s why the perfect mode of transportation when getting around this country is by train so that you’ll get a chance to take in all of the scenic routes.

It is also home to two of the world’s most liveable cities, Zurich and Geneva. Here’s a more detailed Switzerland itinerary for 7 days .

Another country on this list is Austria. This country is also mountainous, like Switzerland. And along with Switzerland, they form what people call the neutral core of Europe. Austria has the world’s oldest zoo in the world and is well-known for its mountain railways and trains. 

Must-see place in Switzerland and Austria

Switzerland:

• Mount Pilatus – you can enjoy a cable car ride and cogwheel train or t ake a day trip from Zurich
• The Matterhorn
• Grindlewald and Interlaken – combine these two spots in one trip
• Jungfraujoch
• Join a city tour of Zurich
• Lake Lugano and Ticino
• Take a cruise on Lake Geneva
• Lindt Home and Museum – get your ticket
• Lake Oeschinen
• Rhine Falls – exciting boat tour
• Tandem Paragliding over Interlaken

Austria: Get a hop-on, hop -off bus ticket for Vienna to travel around easier, if you enjoy exploring on your own, get the Vienna Pass to must-see places in the city.

• Attend a Mozart Concert – at Vienna Golden Hall
• Altstadt Salzburg
• Giant Ferries Wheel Rides – get a skip-the-line ticket
• Melk Benedectine Abbey
• Mozart House and Museum – enjoy a classical concert
• Belvedere Palace – get your ticket
• Vienna Central Cemetery – join a spooky tour
• Schönbrunn Palace – book a tour
• Vivaldi’s Four Season Concert – at Karlkirche
• Swarovski Crystal Worlds – buy your entrance ticket

Week 2: Slovakia for 7 days

Slovakia is a country filled with historical cities, enchanting castles, and wine-growing valleys. This country has the highest wooden altar in the world, the Basilica of St. James, which is located in the town of Levoca. You can also find the tallest cave column here, called Krásnohorská cave. Both of these became UNESCO world heritage sites. 

For art lovers, they have the second-largest collection of Andy Warhol’s works. The recommended mode of transportation to get to Slovakia from Austria is through riding a bus. Aside from that, you can also board the train, drive a car rental, or use rideshare.

Must-see places in Slovakia :

• Bojnice Castle
• The Blue Church
• Bratislava – bus tour or walkin g tour
• Alpine Skiing
• Dobsinska Ice Cave
• High Tatras
• Devin Castle – join a tour
• Slovak Karst National Park

Week 3: Hungary for 7 days

Hungary is a landlocked country where the world-famous city of Budapest is located. It has a cityscape filled with neoclassical buildings, castle hills, and other architectural landmarks. It is one of the oldest countries in Europe, founded in 895.

Budapest has the most thermal springs in the world, ideal for those who want to unwind and relax. The recommended option to travel to Hungary from Slovakia is via train. Other than that, you can also ride a bus, drive a car or use rideshare.

Must-see places in Hungary

• Danube Cruise – Night Cruise or Day Cruise
• Buda Castle
• Szechenyi Thermal Bath – full-day spa tour
• The Great Synagogue – book a tour
• Anna Cave of Miskolc-Lillafüred
• Hungarian Open-Air Museum
• Eger Castle
• Visegrad Royal Palace
• Basilica of Esztergom

SUMMARY OF 3 WEEKS IN CENTRAL EUROPE ITINERARY

You’re now familiar with the various tourist destinations in Central Europe. But before we end this article, I want to provide you with some tips when going to central Europe, especially for first-timers.

First, make sure that you check if visas are required for each country because while some of them don’t, there are still some that require them, and it might ruin your 3- weeks in Central Europe vacation plan.

Next is to travel during the off-season because that’s when accommodations are less expensive and you can also avoid crowds. Make sure to bring comfortable shoes as you’ll do a lot of walking if you want to explore scenic cities.

I hope that you found these itineraries for 3 weeks in Central Europe holiday helpful in creating your own itinerary.

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3 Week Central Europe Itinerary For Active Travelers

A trip to Central Europe offers travelers an opportunity to step back in time. It’s a destination where ancient history and modern culture collide, awakening the curious corners of the mind, pushing you to explore as much as possible.

That being said, in this 3 Week Central Europe Itinerary , we’re covering a number of countries and cities that provide an immersive travel experience. It’s an active itinerary that will take you through 4 countries and at least 8 cities . Each provides an opportunity to be wowed by the scenery, witness ancient history, expand your palate and discover unique culture.

While this Europe itinerary is designed for 3 weeks, feel free to extend or shorten your stay in the locations we recommend. In addition to recommended stops, we’ll be covering flights and transportation, recommended hotels and activities. We’ll also recommend additional cities in each country we mention that you might consider adding or swapping into your itinerary.

Getting To Central Europe & Travel Logistics

For the sake of this particular itinerary, flying into Geneva makes the most sense given the direction of the route. You’ll be heading West to East, although you could of course reverse the stops. This direction is an enjoyable experience that allows for an evolution of language and culture. You can take a look at the current best flight deals into Geneva and get flight deal notifications with Airfarewatchdog . Browse beautiful hotels to any of the locations mentioned below right here .

We designed this route for active and adventurous travelers. It’s our recommendation that you rent a car for the majority of this trip, as opposed to taking a bus, train or other forms of transportation. This will give you the flexibility to explore at your own leisure, and also go a bit off the beaten path and have a more immersive travel experience. The only exception to this would be taking a train from Vienna (Wien) to Prague, as it’s a lengthy ride.

If you’re considering renting a car, Auto Europe has some great deals as does Sixt Rent a Car . You can also browse car rentals on Expedia for other companies. Given the amount of car travel you’ll be embarking on, spending the last leg of the trip on the train is a relaxing way to wind it down. Book a cheap train ticket with GoEuro .

1st Stop: Geneva, Switzerland (3 Days)

Switzerland is a stunning and interesting country. It’s a wonderful first stop in Central Europe because you’re going to experience a multitude of languages, cultures, and sights.

Geneva is one of the most beautiful regions in the country, between stunning Lake Geneva, the terraced UNESCO World Heritage vineyards , and the quaint snow-capped mountain villages and towns — you’ll be hard-pressed to find a more diverse assortment of beauty.

It’s also the region in Switzerland where French is spoken more than German. As you continue to travel East, you’ll notice that the local languages spoken will change. In fact, if you venture through the Ticino region, you’ll even hear some Italian.

We recommend staying in Geneva for about 3 days. This gives you enough time to explore the city, the lake, the reformation wall, the museums, and of course, see the famous Jet d’Eau water fountain. In addition, Geneva also serves as a good home base to take day trips to other nearby areas. In particular, we highly recommend driving to visit Lavaux — the famed wine-growing region that is so impressively beautiful, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007.

Top Tours & Things To Do Near Geneva

Walk Around Lake Geneva

See The Reformation Wall

The Birthplace of the United Nations

Visit the Lavaux UNESCO World Heritage Vineyard Sites

Witness the Jet d’Eau Fountain

Where We Stayed in Geneva

The Kempinski Hotel

Located right along the shores of Lake Geneva, the Kempinski offers an unparalleled 5-Star experience. Easy access to the ferries and tram stops make it an ideal home base for navigating the city from a lakeside perspective. The rooms are sleek, clean, modern and upscale. Views from the hotel include but are not limited to the Jet d’Eau fountain and the French Alps in the distance. 

RELATED: Learn All About Switzerland’s Wine Regions & Wines

2nd Stop: Grindelwald, Switzerland (4 Days)

Grindelwald is an ideal second stop as you continue progressing East. It’s within the now relatively popular Jungfrau region of Switzerland, by the Bernese Alps. Given its proximity to several other beautiful and exciting destinations, as well as its affordable accommodation, we recommend using it as your home base in Jungfrau. 

The village of Grindelwald itself is gorgeous. You can sit outside your hotel surrounded by snow-capped mountains while sipping on a glass of Chasselas wine. While we were recently there, we even encountered an avalanche in the distance as the sun was setting!

We recommend spending 4 days here. On the first day, take some time to explore the village itself. In the winter, this is a popular ski destination. In the Spring and Summer, it’s the perfect village for hiking and witnessing the nearby waterfalls. 

On your second day, head about 30 minutes northeast outside of town to Lauterbrunnen , and hike around the waterfalls that careen off of the cliff faces throughout the valley.

On the third day, drive about 30 minutes northwest to Interlaken (German for “Between Two Lakes”). This is one of the more famous resort towns in Switzerland. It’s a town that quite literally sits between two lakes — Brienz and Thun. Surrounded by mountains and dotted with dense foliage, there are beautiful meadows and glaciers nearby. The two lakes themselves are colored with a deep emerald blue hue, unlike anything else in the world. We definitely recommend the short 20-minute ride east to Brienz for a day, which offers stunning lakefront dining experiences and excellent hiking. The town of Spietz on Lake Thun in the other direction is also worth the short 20-minute drive in the other direction.

Top Tours & Things To Do Near Grindelwald

Hike Around Grindewald and Witness the Eiger Mountain

Hike Around Lauterbrunnen

Explore Interlaken

Helicopter Skydive in Interlaken

Explore the Village of Spietz

Explore the Lakeside Town of Brienz

Where We Stayed in Grindelwald

Sunstar Hotel Grindelwald

One of the more pleasant experiences we had while visiting Switzerland, the Sunstar offers an assortment of room options at affordable price points. I was blown away that you could walk out the back of the lobby and sit within just a couple hundred yards of the Swiss Alps. The staff were incredibly courteous, the rooms were comfortable and practical and the hotel even has somewhat of a wine theme to it. I had some of the best Chasselas in Swizterland while staying at the Sunstar. 

3rd Stop: Zurich, Switzerland (2 Days)

This cosmopolitan yet medieval city is a must-stop when traveling through Switzerland. Just approaching Lake Zurich alone as it shines in the sun and you emerge from Old Town, with the snow-capped mountains beset in the background, are reason enough to make a stop. 

Take a stroll by the lake, enjoy a glass of Swiss Chasselas or Blauburgunder wine and take in the crisp alpine air, or stroll through the back alleyways of Old Town with its cobblestone corridors and quaint shops and restaurants. If you’re in more of a spending mood, take a leisurely stroll down Bahnhofstrasse, Zurich’s world-famous (yet expensive) shopping street. You can also take a boat cruise across the lake , or explore the city by bicycle. If you’re looking for a sweeping and stunning view of the city, stop by Lindenhof Hill . 

Zurich has more to offer than its beautiful views and upscale shopping scene. There’s a bohemian side to this city creeping up (in a good way) within Zurich’s Industrial Quarter. Venture on over to Frau Gerold’s Garten, which is pretty much a small neighborhood constructed out of shipping containers. There are several bars, shops and eateries here that offer a completely unique perspective of Zurich.

Top Tours & Things To Do in Zurich

Walk the Limmatquai Promenade

Go Wakeboarding on Lake Zurich 

Take in a view of the city from Lindenhof Hill

Explore Altstadt (Old Town)

Explore Grossmünster Church

Where We Stayed in Zurich

25hours Hotel Zürich West

This was by far the most practical hotel we stayed at while in Switzerland. Not only were the staff incredibly friendly and accomodating, especially with helping to navigate the city, but the hotel is conveniently located across the street from the tram. It made waking up and traversing the entirety of Zurich in just a couple of days incredibly easy. The 24Hours Hotel Zurich West is also one of the most affordable hotel options in the city for what you get.

The rooms are also large, very clean and very cute. The staff went so far as to write me a handwritten happy birthday card and leave me with treats in the room while we spent the day out exploring. 100% highly recommended, a must-stay. 

4th Stop: Munich, Germany (2 Days)

As you continue to progress along your route, Munich makes for an ideal stop while en route to Austria. It’s positioned not far from Germany’s southwestern border.

As you drive towards Munich (also known as München in German), we recommend stopping at Neuschwanstein Castle — the same castle that inspired Walt Disney to create Sleeping Beauty. Among other attractions worth visiting for a couple of days are the Allianz Arena, Marienplatz, and the Deutsche Museum. Take some time especially to explore Marienplatz, Munich’s most well-known square and its architecture.

RELATED: 11 Beautiful Destinations To Visit in Germany and Why

We feel that two days in Munich is enough to explore the bulk of the “must-dos” in the city as well as sample some of the essential cuisine, though feel free to increase the duration here as you see fit.

Top Tours & Things To Do in Munich

Stop by Neuschwanstein Castle

See the Allianz Arena

Walk Marienplatz

See the Deutsche Museum

Where We Stayed in Munich

The Cortiina Hotel

This was a gem of a find to stay at for a brief stint in Munchen. It’s conveniently located not far from Marienplatz, just about 5 minutes. It’s also a short walk from the famed Viktualienmarkt farmers market. The rooms are very modern, the breakfast buffet is high-end and free, and they have one of the best wine bars in the city attached to the hotel, aptly dubbed — “Grapes.” 

5th Stop: Hallstatt, Austria (3 Days)

I’m not sure how many of you are history and archeology buffs like I am, but as I was walking towards the skywalk above Hallstatt, I looked to my left and this beam of light starting shining on a hill where they uncovered over 5,000 Celtic graves (pictured above), many several thousand years old. But this isn’t just any gravesite, it’s one of the most significant finds in Europe. It wasn’t the skeletons they found here that are so interesting, it’s what was buried with them.

This site was a special place because of the salt rocks mined just beneath the Alps here, and these salt rocks were traded and mined for over 7,000 years, as far as Asia. Because of the natural resource here, the Celts became wealthy and were buried with their riches. In some cases, they were buried still sitting in their chariots with their armor and weapons. I came to Hallstatt specifically to see the history for myself. I even wandered around the forest and mountain streams here looking for artifacts. 

Long story short, Hallstatt is one of the most significant historical sites in Central Europe. But aside from the history and archeology, it’s also an incredibly pleasant place to explore and take in the views. This is a hiker’s paradise, a history buff’s dream, and for those who enjoy a good glass of Grüner Veltliner , o ne of the best places to enjoy Austria’s most famous white wines with a view.

Top Tours & Things To Do in Hallstatt

Take a Tour of Salzwelten (The Salt Mine)

Hike Around The Town

Have a lake-side schnitzel meal and glass of Gruner Veltliner

Walk the Hallstatt Skywalk

Take the Funicular Above the Town

Tour the Hallstatt Museum for Celtic Archeology

Walk Old Town

Rent a Small Boat on the Lake

See the Hallstatt Ossuary

Where We Stayed in Hallstatt

Hallstatt Heritage Hotel

Accommodation is relatively scarce in Hallstatt, given its increasing popularity and small stature of a town. We found extreme comfort and a remarkable view at the Hallstatt Heritage Hotel. The rooms were large and clean, and the staff were attentive. Keep in mind that this hotel maintains two buildings, which are a hundred or so yards apart. Depending on the room you receive, you may be positioned lakeside or slightly more inland in town. However, both buildings are upscale. The breakfast buffet is located by the lakeside building and is included. 

6th Stop: Vienna, Austria (3 Days)

I wasn’t fully sure what to expect when I visited Vienna (also known as Wien in Austria). I knew from guidebooks and my Instagram feed that it was certainly one of the more iconic locations to stop at in Austria. What I didn’t know was how impressed I would be by it. 

After checking into my hotel, the 5 Star Sans Souci , and receiving several dozens of recommendations from the concierge, I was immediately overwhelmed. Unfortunately, I only had 1 day to traverse Vienna. I quickly found out that this was a mistake, which is why I’m recommending that you all stay in Vienna for at least 3 nights. 

Vienna is a white city, from its quaint cobblestone back alleys to its wide-angled streets, the buildings themselves offer dramatic views to digest. The wealth of this place becomes obvious within minutes. But it’s not just its modern wealth that makes Vienna so iconic, this is also a medieval place, with ancient archeology just beneath the modern streets. 

Among some of the best things to do in Vienna, be sure to marvel at St. Stephen’s Cathedral, walk by Schonbrunn Palace, explore the Museum Quarter, and definitely either see a performance or take the guided tour of the State Opera House ( Staatsoper). You can also go on a guided bike tour for a couple of hours to get a real sense of the city and cover more ground.

 Top Tours & Things To Do in Vienna

Visit St Stephen’s Cathedral

Walk the Schonbrunn Gardens

Witness the Architecture of the Rathaus Town Hall

Visit the Museums in the Museum Quarter

See a show at the Opera House

Where We Stayed in Vienna

Hotel Sans Souci

Arguably the most upscale experience we had on this Europe trip was our stay at the San Souci Hotel in Vienna. This 5-Star property was incredibly accomodating and comfortable, with a generous front-desk staff willing to divulge all of the city’s secrets. The rooms themselves are complete with high ceilings, and everything from the molding to the bedding is luxurious. You can even watch TV directly in your mirror. It’s a 3-minute walk from the Museum Quarter and conveniently located by the Hofburg Imperial Palace. A complimentary champagne breakfast buffet is also included.

7th Stop: Prague, Czech Republic (4 Days)

“The Golden City” as it’s often referred to and we like to call it, is one of eclectic culture, architecture, cuisine, nightlife and history. As you traverse this bohemian atmosphere (which happens to be one of the top 5 most visited cities in Europe currently), you’ll fall in more love with it every corner you turn. From navigating the Old Town square and witnessing Prague’s Astrological Clock — for which mentions go back as early as 1410 — to exploring the world’s most beautiful library — the Klementinium — you’ll be in awe. 

For a detailed breakdown of how to best navigate Prague, the best things to do throughout the city, in addition to trying Czech beer and wine, take a look at our Essential 4 Day Guide to Exploring Prague here .

Top Tours & Things To Do in Prague

Visit Castle Hill

Walk Staré Mesto (Old Town Square)

Walk The Jewish Quarter

See a String Quartet at the Klementinium

Tour the Klementinium Library

Walk and Visit The Charles Bridge

See The Dancing House

See the John Lennon Wall

Eat at Hotel U-Prince

Where We Stayed in Prague

Majestic Plaza Prague Best Western

Don’t let the fact that the Majestic Plaza is a Best Western fool you. This upscale property is elegant and located just a couple of kilometers from the Charles Bridge. The rooms are somewhat rustic, yet elegant, comfortable, and clean. Staying here will also get a complimentary champagne breakfast buffet. 

Questions, suggestions? Let us know in the comments! Note that this itinerary is more of a high-level guide to help you plan a perfect route through the above 4 countries. We go into more specific recommendations within our city travel guides.

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Leave a comment, ask a question or share a review cancel reply, comments ( 7 ).

It’s been a long time since I was there but I loved Zurich and Munich. Prague was a lot of fun, a few years ago I spent 30 days in Prague and had a great time walking around and exploring. The trains there are also great and I did a few day trips to nearby towns and even a one day trip to Dresden Germany. Great itinerary, You took in a lot in 3 weeks.

We are heading back to this area next summer, bookmarking for reference!

The Lavaux wine region around Lake Geneva is absolutely stunning – a must do!

I’ve wanted to go back to Switzerland specifically to visit the wine regions for quite some time. We discovered Swiss wine years ago on our first trip, and there are lovely hiking trails right through the vineyard and such.

It’s been a while since we visited Munich and Zurich. I adore Zurich, we spent a weeks there and had enchanting trips to Lucerne and Salzburg. I would love to get back. I think Hallstatt and Vienna will have to be on our itinerary also! Thank you for the great recommendations!

Looks like you hit up some amazing destinations during this trip. Munich is one of my all-time favourite cities. We have only briefly been to Switzerland but the high prices were enough to keep us from exploring too much. Great article great cities great suggestions

Some great spots you visited here, and a great itinerary to follow. I really want to visit Switzerland as it looks so pretty ? 3 weeks is a perfect amount of time too for the spots you suggested.

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21 Day Europe Tour Packages

Filter for departure dates and price to find the right 3 week Europe tour with TourRadar. Choose from 963 trips with 7,425 customer reviews, that range from 15 up to 21 days.

250+ Europe 3 week tours with 7,425 reviews

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Athens to Vienna; Grand Tour of the Balkans & Central Europe

Fabulous tour full of history. Our guide was very educated and extremely knowledgeable about his country and it’s history. He was also a safe driver. It was very hot when we toured but we stopped for some beach swims.

Vienna to Athens or Corfu; Grand Tour of Central Europe & the Balkans

We have just finished pur 21 days balkans Adventure. Sokol our guide was the best, he did such a good job during our tour, we loved him . Choos Balkans ensured a smooth and enjoyable adventure from start to finish. The accommodations were top-notch. This 5-star experience has left me with cherished memories and a deep appreciation for the Balkans. Kudos to everyone takingcare of this tour. ????????????????

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Grand European (End Paris, 21 Days)

Overall excellent tour package for anyone who has never been to Europe or less adventurous and prefers to spend the energy enjoying the journey than planning during it. A must travel for anyone who has a interest in either European history/architecture/food/seeing a mixture of cosmopolitan and little towns. Was initially worried of how our 6 year son would cope, but thanks to the excellent friendship within the people on the same group and our excellent Travel Director Kassie who championed everything smoothly that gave us parents to enjoy the journey even better.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Essential Europe: Italy, Croatia & Mediterranean Magic

Complete Europe

Ultimate Spain & Portugal

My husband and I loved our Portugal- Spain tour. There was plenty of free time and all of the group adventures were wonderful. Our CEO Beatriz Oubel went above and beyond to help every person on the tour. She was knowledgeable, helpful and never showed any signs of stress for the entire 21 days. She made the entire vacation better. We will definitely search out tour with her as CEO. Susan Mendes

Europe from West to East

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Slovenia to Macedonia Real Food Adventure

21 days Complete Tour of Balkans from Sofia through Transylvania (34 destinations)

I went on this tour with no preconceived ideas, so I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of my tour. Liviu is a very pleasant, helpful and knowledgeable guide. His grasp of history was amazing. Liviu definately made this a trip of a lifetime. The tour was definitely full on but so much to see. I can definately recommend this tour. Liviu certainly made this tour very enjoyable. Thank you Liviu

21 days Balkans Group Tour from Sofia

I enjoyed the tour but there some places that were a waste of time. Some hotels were ok others pretty poor for what we paid. I notice the tour is now half of what I paid!! I guess that means we paid for the new uncomfortable vans. I was glad to see the end of this tour and thankful that I’m still alive. Our guide/driver was terrible. Driving at 150kph in pouring rain and sitting on the tail of cars in front. In the end we asked him to slow down but that only lasted a few days.

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Paris to Prague & Splendours of Europe

Poland and The Baltics off-season: UNESCO sites, Teutonic Knights castles and other beautiful destinations together with non-touristy historical places on a 21-days tour from Warsaw

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What people love about 3 week europe tours.

I had planned on visiting Macedonia, but also wanted to get a taste for the rest of the Balkans on our first trip to the region, so engaged Choose Balkans to get the most out of our time there, and frankly it was getting complicated looking at each individual bit myself! (We started in Belgrade and visited Sarajevo, Mostar and Kravica in B&H, Dubrovnik, Albania, Montenegro, Kosovo, Skopje, Ohrid, Prilep, Heraklia in Macedonia and Thessaloniki, Meteora, Delphi, Corinthe in Greece with drop-off in Athens. Sirma did an amazing job of planning the trip. She balanced our requirements, such as pick up and drop off points (multiple drop-offs), needing to be in certain places at certain times to meet up with friends/celebrate Orthodox Easter/catch flights etc, with suggestions about what we could do in between and some of the more classic itineraries. She was very responsive to messages when we were organising the trip, despite the time difference with Australia. It was reassuring to know that she was there in the background making sure everything went smoothly as well during the trip. The hotels ranged from good to excellent and we liked all of them for different reasons, whether it be the location, friendliness of the staff/owners or the breakfasts. The breakfasts catered to all our tastes, me who likes to try local food and the kids who preferred more classic options. And I was able to do the laundry at the Choose Balkans accommodation in Tirana, which was not a highlight of the trip, but still a necessity. During the trip itself, our guide Eri Veseli took great care of us. Firstly, he speaks a few of the same languages I speak - German, Italian, Greek (and English obviously ), so we got on well from the beginning, swapping in and out of our languages and conversing with other people we met, which really enhanced the experience for me. He shared stories and perspectives on historical and cultural aspects of the Balkans, so we left with a deeper understanding of the region. We felt safe at all times while he was driving, which was something that was important for me, and somehow he managed to negotiate the narrow streets in some of the places we went and always found parking, which was a miracle sometimes! Everything went smoothly, including borders, and currency exchange. A couple of bonus points that had not really occurred to me before deciding to use Choose Balkans were that, thanks to Eri, we ended up with some amazing family photos, that received many compliments from our friends, and also he knew all the good places with amazing views to stop to eat when we were travelling around. A few comments on the Balkans generally. Firstly, we felt very safe in terms of our personal belongings (we were a lot less cautious than we would have had to be in other parts of Europe!) and when we had free time, felt comfortable out and about by ourselves in the evening. Likewise with the roads - general driving behaviour is actually much better than say Italy or Greece. OK, parking in the towns and cities is as bad as elsewhere.... The people are welcoming and the variety of breathtaking scenery and cultural aspects in such a small geographical area makes it an ideal place to visit. For anyone looking to escape the hoards of tourists elsewhere in Europe, I would definitely recommend it, although some of the places would be busy during high season. For anyone who can't make up their mind whether to organise their tour themselves or use Choose Balkans, my main reason for using Choose Balkans was so that I didn't have to deal with hiccups like transport options having changed from what is published and getting stuck somewhere (with the implications for hotel bookings elsewhere etc),, plus we were on a tight schedule. Thanks to Sirma's great planning and Eri looking after us "on the ground", there weren't any hiccups, but I knew that if there had have been, they would have sorted it out and it would not have been stressful for us. I will be returning to the Balkans frequently and will definitely use Choose Balkans again. I would highly recommend them, whether it be for a long and complex itinerary like ours, a side-trip for a few days to explore the region further if you are based in one of the capital cities, or even just for a day trip. Thanks again Sirma and Eri.

We have just finished pur 21 days balkans Adventure. Sokol our guide was the best, he did such a good job during our tour, we loved him . Choos Balkans ensured a smooth and enjoyable adventure from start to finish. The accommodations were top-notch. This 5-star experience has left me with cherished memories and a deep appreciation for the Balkans. Kudos to everyone takingcare of this tour. ????

This was my 13th tour with a variety of different tour companies but my first with Trafalgar. Kassie was knowledgeable, professional, exceptionally patient and an absolute joy to have as our tour director and as such has been the best one I’ve ever had, so thank you Kassie

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The Best 3-week Backpacking Route in Europe – using Interrail!

Are you planning a 3-week backpacking route through Europe using Interrail? Amazing! It’s such a great experience and you’ll have the best time. We’re here to help you plan your 3 weeks in Europe and how using interrail can make the journey a breeze! Read on to find out more about planning a 3 week interrail route in Europe.

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How to Plan a 3-week Backpacking Route with Interrail

Table of Contents (Skip to a section!)

Europe is a continent full of history, amazing culture, multiple languages and a variety of countries. With so many countries, it can be hard to figure out where to start your 3 week interrail route!

In this travel guide, we’ll show you a 3-week Backpacking Route through gorgeous Europe and which cities are best to visit on a first-time trip. Of course, you can mix this itinerary up to your preference, however, we think everyone will enjoy this interrail route.

As we’re born in the UK, we grew up visiting some of these countries with our families, exploring well-known towns and impressive buildings.

It wasn’t until we took our first weekend trip together that we suddenly realized how big Europe is and how much we wanted to explore our home continent. So we created our own 3 week interrail route and hit the road!

This 3-week Backpacking route is the perfect mix of cities, nature and beaches! As part of our planning process, we purchased our Interrail tickets, pre-booked our accommodation, and noted down which trains we wanted to take.

What is Interrailing in Europe?

Interrailing is a European train pass that gives you more freedom than the average train ticket. You can purchase global passes that cover 33 countries within Europe or specific passes for one country.

Depending on how much travelling you’re doing they can be a good way to save money. However, this is not always the case if you’re travelling less often on your trip. Have a browse on the Interrail website to see the range of passes.

Interrail vs Eurail

They are the same thing! The only difference between the tickets is what country your passport is from. As a European citizen, you can get the Interrail pass, if you’re from a country outside of Europe then Eurail is your option. It’s just the price that changes.

Find out about 8 Great Backpacking Tips you need to know before hitting the road!

The first step – Do I need to plan a route before my trip?

If you’ve found our 3 week interrail route travel guide, you likely want to plan your route before starting your journey. It’s a great idea to at least have a rough plan for your trip, especially if it’s longer than 2 or 3 weeks.

There are over 40 countries in Europe , so it’s going to be a hard decision when figuring out which countries to travel to

Interrail passes are designed to make your trip flexible. You can book hostels on the day of arriving at a new destination, you can meet friends and they will take you somewhere new.

There are benefits to being flexible on a trip! When it comes to regions like South East Asia it’s popular to book accommodation within a day or two of the stay because there’s not much worry about the price and availability.

Why it’s good to plan your interrail route:

• Europe has higher prices, it can be more expensive to be flexible
• Travelling in high season means the good hostels will sell out
• You may miss the train to a destination on your bucket list
• Saves time on your trip worrying about travel plans

Even if you prefer to book a flight and go with the flow it’s a good idea to have a rough 3 week interrail route to start your journey.

Helpful Tips for a 3 Week Interrail Route

• 💤  Hotels  – Book advance on Booking.com !
• 🛌  Hostels  – Book advance on Hostelworld !
• Check prices for buses on Busbud , before using a day on your interrail pass!
• Here’s 8 Great Tips on Backpacking Europe you need to check out!

3-Week Backpacking Route using Interrail

If you’re struggling to create the best interrail 3 week route, you can follow this guide for a perfect trip with lots of variation! Here’s the countries we’ll take you to on in this Europe backpacking itinerary.

Countries: Poland – Germany – Czech Republic – Austria – Slovenia – Croatia Interrail Pass :   5 days within 15 days Interrail pass

This itinerary is based on our experience, so we’ll give you some tips along the way. We started with a northern destination in Eastern Europe and worked our way down to the south. This worked out amazing because we could feel the weather getting warmer as we travelled south on the trains.

Day 1 – 3 | Warsaw

Start your 3 week Europe backpacking route in Poland – an underrated country in Europe!

Warsaw is the capital of Poland and also the largest city! When it comes to Poland, most travellers visit Krakow , but Warsaw is the perfect place to start your interrail route as you can continue into Germany!

There are lots of things to do in Warsaw from museums to parks and trying Polish cuisine. The historic city has a beautiful Old Town and Łazienki Park is a great spot for a picnic .

When we visited Warsaw, it rained and stormed for a whole day, but it didn’t stop us from enjoying what the city has to offer. We tried pierogis for the first time and fell in love, we’ve been eating them ever since this trip!

We’re glad it was our first stop and will definitely be visiting more of Poland in the future, especially for the delicious perogies! It’s a great way to start your interrail route.

Tip : Make sure you don’t visit Warsaw on a Monday or Tuesday because the museums may be closed.

Best Things To Do in Warsaw

• Explore the Old Town
• Check out the museums
• Visit the Museum World of Illusion – find out more here!
• Watch a Chopin Concert in the Old Town
• Wander around Łazienki Park
• Try Polish Cuisine (pierogies)

Where to stay in Warsaw for Backpackers

• Chillout Hostel € – In the centre of Warsaw in a Pre-war tenement house.
• Oki Doki Old Town Hostel Warsaw € – Mixed and private rooms in the heart of Warsaw.
• Safestay Warsaw Old Town € – A perfect hostel for backpackers – Book on HostelWorld .

Day 3 – 6 | Berlin

The capital city of Germany is a great place to visit on any European adventure! It’s perfect for a city break or if you’re stopping by on a backpacking trip. The city has amazing culture, booming nightlife, iconic monuments and tasty cuisine. It’s easy to fall in love with Berlin.

Make sure to visit Tempelhofer Feld to experience another side of Berlin! It was once an airport, but it’s now a massive field to explore. You will find many Berlin locals rollerskating down the old airstrips.

Berlin is a must-visit on your 3 week interrail route as there’s so much to do, it’s a backpacker heaven. The prices aren’t too bad either, although they’re more expensive than in Poland. Try some currywurst, walk along the old Berlin wall and relax on the river Spree. Berlin will always have a place in our hearts!

Another reason to visit Berlin is for it’s amazing vegan food scene. It’s one of the best vegan-friendly cities in Europe and the options here make it so easy to travel as a vegan .

Best Things To Do in Berlin

• Visit Brandenburg Gate
• Eat the best German food
• Visit the Reichstag – Plenary Chamber, Dome & Government District Tour
• Go thrift shopping!
• Explore Potsdamer Platz
• Go up the TV Tower – Find tickets online here !
• Find Checkpoint Charlie
• Explore the city by boat on a river tour !

Where to stay in Berlin for Backpackers

• Circus Hostel € – A beautiful hostel in Rosenthaler Platz – Find on Hostelworld !
• MEININGER Berlin East Side Gallery € – The perfect base for exploring Berlin’s highlights, also has a huge common area – Find here on Hostelworld !
• St Christopher’s Berlin Mitte € – A sociable hostel in the heart of Berlin – Find here on Hostelworld !

Wolfsburg – Day Trip from Berlin

Located west of Berlin is a city named Wolfsburg. It isn’t a top-rated stop on a European Itinerary as you don’t need long to enjoy its small city.

However, it’s known as the headquarters for the German brand Volkswagen . It’s also home to the Autostad, an automobile-themed park with a classic car museum and driving track. The AutoMuseum showcases Volkswagen models and prototypes, which is amazing if you’re a Volkswagen fan like Dan.

It’s only a 1-hour train journey away from Berlin, and it’s the perfect way to explore a new German city. If you don’t fancy visiting a car museum, spend the extra day in Berlin instead.

Day 6 | Dresden – Interrail Stopover

Dresden is another wonderful city in Germany. Filled with spectacular architectural buildings, Dresden stands out for its rich history.

The Zwinger , an important building with attractive gardens, is one of the city’s highlights. As we were only there for a day, we made sure to gaze at all of these grand buildings.

Germany is also known for its great beer gardens, which we took the time to enjoy!

We chose to visit Dresden after we realised our train from Berlin to Prague passed through. We spend most of the day here, lugging around our backpacks and resting in the sun. It was awesome to explore an extra city on our travels, so different to Berlin!

💤  Hotels  – Book advance on Booking.com ! 🛌  Hostels  – Book advance on Hostelworld !

Day 6 – 9 | Prague

Prague is the capital of the Czech Republic and there are many monuments to see throughout this cobblestoned city. It’s the perfect city for your 3 week backpacking interrail itinerary.

Charles Bridge is one of Prague’s astounding things to do and you can also climb to the top of Petrin Tower to overlook the city. Prague was one of the most affordable destinations on our trip, as long as you avoid eating in tourist areas.

Browsing the old town of Prague and finding all of the cathedrals will give you all the European vibes. You can’t leave the city without trying a Trdelník . It’s a sweet pastry often called a chimney cake!

Prague was one of the destinations that inspired our Interrail adventure because we almost chose to go here on a previous trip. It was one of the top destinations on our list! After looking at a few pictures, you will know what we mean!

Best Things To Do in Prague

• Climb up Petrin Tower
• Go on a River Night Cruise
• Try a Czech Beer
• Walk over Charles Bridge
• Admire Prague Castle ( Find ticket prices online here )!
• Indulge in a Medieval Dinner with Unlimited Drinks

Where to stay in Prague for Backpackers

• Prague Dream Hostel € – The perfect place to meet other travellers in a cosy hostel – Find them on Hostelworld !
• Hostel One Home € – Close to the train station and main square – Find them on Hostelworld !

Day 9 – 12 | Vienna

Next up on this 3 week interrail route is Vienna – Austria’s capital city! Austria is a landlocked German-speaking country. Home to part of the alps and famous for its palaces, buildings and castles.

Vienna is well known for its fascinating buildings and opera! Unfortunately, we are not that interested in opera so we opted for roaming the streets in search of museums.

We originally booked accommodation in the centre of Vienna, but they cancelled on us days before. We were trying to stick to a strict budget, so ended up booking an apartment next to the Danube River ! It worked out amazing though, as it gave us the unknown opportunity to relax by the Danube and see a more local side of Vienna.

From Vienna, you can also visit Bratislava on a day trip, but we didn’t have time on our interrail 3 week route. There’s much more of Austria to see, but after a few days in the capital, we decided to head to Slovenia next. Here’s a few things to do in Vienna for 3 days.

Best Things To Do in Vienna

• Visit the Natural History Museum
• Admire St Stephens Cathedral
• See an impressive Vivaldi’s Four Seasons Concert in Karlskirche
• Watch a Mozart Concert at the Golden Hall
• Discover Belvedere Palace
• Take a day trip to Hallstatt & the Alpine Peaks

Where to stay in Vienna for Backpackers

• Wombat’s City Hostel Vienna Naschmarkt € – The best location in Vienna! – Find on Hostelworld !
• Hostel Ruthensteiner Vienna € – Great for meeting other travellers in Vienna! – Find on Hostelworld !

Check out our tips on backpacking Europe (especially if you’re on a budget!)

Day 12 – 14 | Lake Bled

We have to admit that Lake Bled is a place we never knew existed before researching travel routes. It has become very popular for backpackers to visit on their route through Europe as it connects a lot of major countries.

It was one of our favourite destinations on the trip , but at this point, we were craving nature because we had spent almost 10 days in cities. Lake Bled is a town in Slovenia close to the Austrian border and a short distance away from Ljubljana, the capital city.

Lake Bled is one beautiful blue lake with an island situated near the middle, many boats bring visitors to the island. Although you don’t need to spend long as it’s very small.

When you’re not following the trail around the lake, there are areas you can swim in and spots you can sunbathe. You can also try the famous Bled Cake, a creamy pastry dessert!

Next to the lake is a hill where you can experience tobogganing for a small cost. It feels like a mini rollercoaster and definitely worth doing to get your adrenaline rush. Just remember to break!

Once we saw the pictures of the lake, it was instantly on our European Bucket List. The photos and recommendations enticed us to explore for ourselves, and that’s what we love about reading travel blogs!

Best Things To Do in Lake Bled

• Visit Bled Island
• Ride the Toboggan
• Walk around Lake Bled
• Swim the swimming areas
• Visit Lake Bled Castle
• Indulge in Bled Cream Cake
• Hike to Mala Osojnica

Where to stay in Lake Bled for Backpackers

• Bled Hostel € – Great location in the centre of Bled – Find on Hostelworld!
• Penzion Zaka €-€€ – In the most relaxing spot in Bled – Find on Booking.com !

Day 14 | Ljubljana – Interrail Stopover

Ljubljana pronounced: loo·blee· aa ·nuh

We took a local train from Lake Bled to Ljubljana in the morning to spend the day before catching our night train. This meant we had to carry our backpacks around for the day, which is why it’s a great idea to pack light when backpacking!

Slovenia is a beautiful country, so it was amazing to explore two locations within the country. Although Ljubljana is a small cosy capital city, it’s praised for its green spaces! The buildings are mesmerising, and it was lovely to see so many people enjoying the sun by the river.

The key landmark of the city is the towering castle and one of the ways to reach it is by the Ljubljana Castle funicular . There is a view of all the orange-coloured buildings in Ljubljana.

Ljubljana is a lovely stopover on the way to Croatia! As hard as it was to say goodbye to Lake Bled, we were excited to see more of Slovenia during our short time in the country.

Best Things To Do in Ljubljana

• The Triple Bridge
• Ljubljana Castle
• Prešeren Square
• Tivoli Park
• Ljubljana Cathedral
• Ljubljana Central Market

Where to stay in Ljubljana for Backpackers

• Hostel Celica €-€€ – The trendiest hostel in Ljubljana – Find on Hostelworld !
• Apartments Maria €-€€ – The best location in Ljubljana – Find on Booking.com !

Overnight Train Ride to Split – 1 night

The best way to get from Zadar to Split on your 3 week interrail route is to catch an overnight train. They’re actually pretty comfy and you’ll wake up to views of the ocean when you arrive on the coast of Croatia.

Day 15 – 18 | Split

Now it’s time for the beach part of our Interrail trip, we couldn’t wait!

Split is the second-largest city in Croatia, and a popular location for backpackers! With the sun shining almost constantly in the summer and many sandy or rocky beaches, it’s easy to see why Split is so enjoyable.

On one of our days, we walked around Park Šuma Marjan searching for small isolated beaches, it was another one of our favourite days from our 3-week backpacking route!

There are many restaurants and ice cream shops to indulge in whilst wandering in the Croatian heat.

We had our first overnight train experience getting to Split, and when we arrived a local told us it’s easier and faster by bus, so we will remember that in the future!

The main reason we chose to go to Croatia was because of the magical pictures we saw of Krka National Park and Plitvice Lakes National Park.

We managed to make it to the stunning Krka National Park, but when we arrived it was extremely busy. The waterfalls were definitely impressive! The only area that wasn’t too busy was when we were swimming in the water.

The park’s trail was only one-way and because of this, it was full of many slow people. We don’t like to be too negative about places on here, but the truth is, this spot is just very popular! However Split is definitely worth a visit, and now onto our last location of the trip.

Best Things To Do in Split

• Diocletian’s Palace ( go on a Game of Thrones Tour! )
• Relax at the rocky beaches
• Head to Krka National Park
• Visit St.Duje Cathedral
• Walk along the promenade
• Go on an island-hopping Tour
• Cetina River Rafting with Cliff Jumping Tour

Where to stay in Split for Backpackers

• En Route Hostel € – best location & perfect for meeting travellers – Find on Hostelworld !
• Sweet Dreams (Old Town) €-€€ – walking distance to all the best spots in Split – Find on Booking.com !

Day 18 – 20 | Zadar

Zadar is another city along Croatia’s Dalmatian coast and about 2 hours away from Split. The historic Old Town and wonderful ruins are what makes Zadar worth visiting.

It’s less famous than Split and very different! If you decide to go from Split to Zadar, we recommended getting the bus , instead of a train as it will be a lot faster and it’s affordable. Find bus tickets here!

A lot like most of Croatia, Zadar is covered in orange-topped buildings, which is so beautiful to see and also convenient for the heat. The city has also created a sea organ which is an architectural sound art object, it uses the power of the waves to create sounds. There is also a big solar-powered dance floor next to the sea organ.

Zadar came up on our radar after we saw a great priced flight back to our home country, UK. It was only a couple of hours away from Split and a good opportunity to explore another area in Croatia.

Best Things To Do in Zadar

• Find the Sea Organ
• Chill at the beaches
• Explore Old Town
• Jump off dive boards
• See the Church of St. Donatus
• Walk around the Roman Forum
• Go on a Day Trip to Plitvice Lakes

Where to stay in Zadar for Backpackers

• The Lazy Monkey Hostel & Apartments € – the perfect hostel for anyone – Find on Hostelworld !
• Unique Rooms €-€€ – great location in Zadar – Find on Booking.com !

So that’s the end of our 3-week backpacking route in Europe using interrail! We have a few more tips for you about Interrailing Europe in this travel guide.

3 Week Interrail Route Overview

For most of our intercity trips we used our interrail pass! We paid separately for the train return to Wolfsburg and our bus from Split to Zadar.

As you can see we stopped off at many capital cities along this journey. This was our first time visiting all of these countries and it’s lovely to discover the capital of a city before finding the hidden gems.

Whilst we now love finding off-the-beaten-track places and pushing ourselves to discover the unknown more, we also enjoy learning about the capital.

It can be hard deciding where to begin your Interrail trip, but in the end, it’s really about your experience and how you spend your time. Throughout our travels, we decided to take it easy in Austria as our accommodation was near the Danube river and outside of the central city.

Catching the sun on a man-made beach whilst taking frequent dips into the river instead of rushing around in the city is something we will remember forever! Don’t get us wrong, we absolutely love cities.

When travelling for 3 weeks in Europe by interrail you have to give yourself a break because it can get tiring walking thousands of steps a day and you won’t be appreciating your adventure as much.

3 Week Interrail Route Breakdown

To summarise our trip we visited 10 locations in 6 countries and caught many modes of transport.

• Poland – Warsaw (2 days)
• Germany – Berlin – (3 days)
• Germany – Wolfsburg (1 day-trip)
• Germany – Dresden (1 day-trip)
• Czech R – Prague (3 days)
• Austria – Vienna (3 days)
• Slovenia – Lake Bled (2 days)
• Slovenia – Ljubljana (1 day-trip)
• Croatia – Split (3 days)
• Croatia – Zadar (2 days)

Immediately after the trip, we spoke about what we enjoyed the most and what we would change or recommend to someone else doing this route.

Ultimately, Lake Bled was our favourite location . We should have spent more days there, but cut ourselves short with only 2 days as we decided to see Ljubljana (which we don’t regret). Near Lake Bled there were amazing parks to explore such as Triglav National Park that we didn’t get to see.

We love being surrounded by mountains with fresh air and nature. Our Airbnb also offered rental bikes for €4, which is amazing! We didn’t get the chance to use them, but now we know for the future. If we were to plan this trip again, we would probably lose a day in Vienna in order to spend more time in Lake Bled.

Although Lake Bled was our favourite destination, Germany was actually the country we wanted to go back to the most. Germany has a great vibe and draws us in to want to explore more. Its cities have such a big energy and there is so much to do throughout the country, we can’t wait to visit again.

Interrailing in Europe can get quite expensive. It’s best to save enough money for your trip , so you can have the best time away!

3 Week Interrail Route Conclusion

Slovenia was definitely the country that surprised us the most as we didn’t realise how beautiful it was going to be. Even going past on the trains, we were mesmerised by the journey from Vienna to Lake Bled, although a lot of that journey was Austria too!

Another one of our favourite destinations was Prague. We tried amazing Czech food in underground restaurants and it’s definitely a walking city which we love!

Out of the destinations we visited, our top 3 recommendations are Berlin, Prague, Lake Bled . (We also recommend Budapest, but we didn’t visit here on this trip)

We are looking forward to visiting other regions of all 6 countries we visited. You can never complete a country, as there’s always so much to do!

Check out our – 8 Great Trips for Backpacking Europe Better !

Other 3 Week Interrail Routes in Europe

• Amsterdam 3 nights – Berlin 3 nights – Prague – 3 nights – Vienna – 3 nights – Salzburg 2 nights – Lake Bled 3 nights – Ljubljana 1 night – Budapest 3 nights
• Paris 3 nights – Amsterdam 3 nights – Berlin 3 nights – Prague 3 nights – Vienna 3 nights – Bratislava 2 nights – Budapest 3 nights
• Berlin 3 nights – Warsaw 2 nights – Krakow 3 nights – Prague 3 nights – Vienna 3 nights – Lake Bled 3 nights – Split 3 nights
• Amsterdam 3 nights – Berlin 3 nights – Prague 3 nights – Vienna 3 nights – Lake Bled 2 nights – Venice 3 nights – Milan 2 nights – Lake Como 2 nights

Tip : Sometimes Interrail have discounts on their passes if you book them before March 31st!

That’s the end of our 3 Week Backpacking Route using Interail! Enjoy your trip to Europe and if you need any more help planning – send us a message on Instagram (@thesunrisedreamers) or leave a comment below!

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Amy & Dan are the founders of The Sunrise Dreamers. They are travellers from the UK who have been on the road since 2017 whilst living in places like England, Canada, Thailand and the Canary Islands. They share their knowledge of travelling the world with detailed travel guides and tips. They're experts in vegan travel and show their audience how to travel on a budget.

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This itinerary looks perfect for so many travelers! Sounds so easy to get around and get a taste of the main cities too

Thanks Tess! Yes, we love that about Europe! 🙂

That sounds like a dream trip. Backpacking Europe is my dream and I can’t wait to start prepping for it. Thank you for this amazing post, it is so inspiring and informative.

Oh wow thank you! 🙂 It will be so exciting when you begin your adventure, Europe is magical!

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Travel the classic Orient Express route all the way from London to Istanbul.

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See a whole new side of Europe with our Balkans for beginners itinerary.

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Enjoy beautiful lakes, waterfalls and beaches in Slovenia and Croatia.

• Includes Ljubljana, Lake Bled, Piran, Zagreb, Plitvice Lakes, Split, Hvar Island, Dubrovnik and more

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Follow this route to share an Instagrammable adventure with friends, family and followers.

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Travel across Portugal from Porto in the north to the Algarve in the south.

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3 Week Interrail Route: Explore Europe by Train in 2024!

Ahhhh Europe! I do love the diversity. Sipping cocktails by the Seine River in Paris or Trekking up the Julian Alps in Slovenia. No matter where you go there is always a new and exciting adventure just waiting to happen. I’ll never forget the day my ‘European Dreams’ became a reality. Travelling through Europe by train gave me my first ‘true’ taste for the travel lifestyle. I became obsessed and never looked back. Which ultimately led to me setting up my very own travel blog 😉

At the age of 19 over a few cocktails, a group of friends and I decided to sit down at my kitchen table and plan our first ever backpacking trip through Europe. We made a detailed list of the places we would like to see and the time frame we would like to see them in. We were determined to tick off some of Europe’s best interrail destinations, while also experiencing some of the more off the beaten path locations. And that is when we came up with our 3 week Interrail itinerary through Europe. And Today, I would like to share it with you guys.

So, if you are looking for an unforgettable summer, filled with endless memories and exciting experiences. Look no further, because this interrail 3 weeks itinerary is just what you are looking for.

Stop 1: Budapest

Budapest is nick named the ‘Paris to the East’ and I can certainly see why. The Hungarian capital has it all, from a rich culture, to amazing architecture and delicious food. From the moment I stepped foot in the charming city I knew it was worth the visit .

There are a numerous reasons why Budapest features on most interrail routes. For starters, it is super cheap to get around whether you choose to walk, use public transport or threat yourself to a taxi . Eating also doesn’t cost an arm and a leg and well… it’s a nice place to have a glass of bubbly or two.

I’m not afraid to admit that Budapest is by far my favourite city in Europe and I can not wait to go back! I always feel so safe as I explore the city, especially as a solo female traveller. The main language spoken is Hungarian , however, English is wildly used especially among the younger generation.

Things to do in Budapest:

There are so many things to see and do in Budapest it’s hard to do it all in just one trip. To make things easier I have put together a list of my top favourites.

• Go for a soak in the Szechenyi baths
• Take a stroll up Castle Hill for a panoramic view of the Danube River
• Get up close and personal with the World’s most magnificent parliament
• Stroll along the Danube promenade.
• Go on a caving adventure beneath the city.
• Take a Boat Cruise down the Danube

Where to Stay in Budapest

Estimated Budget: I’d recommend for those on a Backpacker’s budget to aim for €30 a day . For those of you who are like me and are on a Backpackers budget with a little pinch of adventure (aka the caving tour), then aim for €40 a day. This includes accommodation and food.

Stop 2: Split Croatia

Split is a stunning coastal city that offers a great mix of modern amenities, yet still shows evidence of it’s historic Roman empire.

It is the perfect city for those looking to explore a mediterranean climate, go island hopping and relax by the beach.

It is impossible to run out of things to do in Split and here is a sample of some of my favourites:

• Spend a few hours exploring the phenomenal buildings of the old town.
• Spend the day on the beach soaking in the sun.
• Take a trip to near by town Trogir to see some Game of Thrones filming sights.
• Spend the day visiting the nearby Islands.
• Go white water rafting on the Cetina River.

Where to stay in Split

I stayed in the Enroute Hostel while in Split, it’s one I highly recommend. I made a great group of friends while I was there and it is only a 15-minute walk from the main tourist areas. The rooms are quite large in size however this didn’t really bother me as everyone has their own privacy curtain which is great if you where looking to relax for a few hours.

Next Stop Lake Bled, Slovenia

It’s is time for my favourite stop on the entire 3 week Europe trip, Slovenia. Slovenia is a truly magical country, from the moment I stepped foot in it, I felt like I had walked into a real life version of a fairytale . Other than it’s Disney like qualities, Slovenia is know for it’s alps line mountains, gorgeous national parks and glistening lakes.

There is so much to see and do it Slovenia , you would need weeks to get it all done. When staying in Slovenia, I’d recommend basing yourself at the stunning Lake Bled. It is extremely central and easy to get to most places.

Things to do in Slovenia:

• Hike and Walk around Lake Bled
• See the crystal clear what of the Emerald River
• Skip rocks at Bohinj Lake
• Take endless photos at the Vintgar Gorge.
• Go on a Canyoning adventure in 3Glav National Park (perfect for adrenaline junkies )
• Enjoy one of Slovenia’s beautiful hikes

Words can not describe how beautiful Slovenia really is. It’s a MUST HAVE destination on any interrailing route.

Recommended Stay Time: 4 days

Currency: They use Euro in Slovenia

Estimated Budget: The budget for everyday items like food, accommodation and small everyday activities are similar to split. So, €30 to €35 a day should do the trick. However, if you plan on taking part in adventure activities like Canyoning or a day trip around 3glav national park I’d suggest bringing €150 to €200 euro more. Trust me they are worth every penny.

Accommodation: Once again this trip was before my blogging days. I do, however, recommend booking with booking.com for peace of mind, reviews you can trust and FREE cancelation.

The 4th stop on our 3 week Interrail itinerary is Munich, Germany

My time in Munich was short so I can’t advise on many things to do there. I can, however, advise on what not to do when interrailing through Europe. Now one may ask, ‘how do 4 people end up stranded in a foreign city until 5am with no accommodation?’

the answer is simple, we forgot to reserve our seats for a connecting train and when we arrived they where all sold out.

The next train didn’t leave until 5 in the morning. So… that meant we where stuck there.

And it’s not over yet…

We also had the bright idea of storing our bags in lockers, which meant we had no clothes to change into. …but HEY! Things like this are all part of the experience, right?

Now, before you start panicking, not all interrail trains need reservations, just be sure to do your research which ones do before you leave.

Also, I can promise you it wasn’t all too bad. We got to spend 5 day light hours in an unexpected city. And at night, we finally convinced the bouncer to let us into a cocktail bar while wearing gym leggin’s and a hoodie, It took A LOT of pleading but it was worth it.

Now, you may be wondering why I decided to include Munich in this itinerary. Well… that’s because in those 5 short hours, I fell in LOVE with the cities astonishing buildings, wide high streets and the friendly people. And it’s only fair that you too get to experience it.

I did try to make another trip to Munich (and have since made it), but that’s another story for another time. because I should really get on with the Europe Itinerary …

Recommended Stay Time: 2 days

Next Stop on our 3 week interrail itinerary is Prague in the Czech Republic

Prague is an amazing city. It has a great nightlife scene and so many interesting places to explore. And for a nice extra bonus, it is super duper cheap.

Prague was mid way through out trip so it’s was nice to splash out a little bit knowing it wasn’t going to break the bank. You can walk around the city, experience the culture and make new friends all while spending barely any money. In fact, my favourite things to do in Prague where FREE or relatively cheap.

Things to do in Prague:

• Go on one of Pragues many tours
• Spend the night on a party boat
• Rent a paddle boat on Vltava River
• Explore the Old Town
• walk across the Charles Bridge

Recommended Stay Time: 3 days

Currency: They use Czech Crowns in Prague

Estimated Budget: As mentioned, Prague is relatively cheap. Those travelling on a backpackers budget should get by with €30 a day.

Next Stop on our 3 week interrail itinerary is Berlin in Germany

Berlin is one BIG city. You definitely need at least three days there. One to find your bearings and two for sightseeing and having a bit of a wander around. The historic city has so much to offer, you will find yourself getting lost easily, That’s why I recommend booking a hop on hop off bus tour . This will prevent you from missing out on all the top tourist attractions. It’s a great way to see the city without getting lost. I also recommend putting 3 or 4 days aside to explore Germanys Capital city.

Things to do in Berlin:

• Check out the Brandenburg Gate
• Take 101 photos of Berlin’s famous TV tower
• Take a FREE walking tour
• Check out Berlin’s nightlife scene
• Learn about the Berlin Wall and it’s history

Currency: They use Euro in Berlin

Estimated Budget: Berlin is expensive! So, depending on you want to do, I’d recommend bringing AT LEAST €50 a day. That will cover a backpackers food and accommodation. Activities will be extra.

Next Stop on our 3 week interrail itinerary is Amsterdam in the Netherlands

Amsterdam is one amazing city! In fact, it is one of my favourites in all of Europe. One of the best things about Amsterdam is the cities size. It is easy to walk about without the need of public transport. Amsterdam is a must on any Europe itinerary.

Things to do in Amsterdam:

• Visit Anne Franks House
• Walk the street and get awesome pictures of the Amsterdam canals
• Go on a FREE walking tour
• Enjoy Amsterdams Nightlife scene
• Take a boat cruise

Currency: They use Euro in Amsterdam

Estimated Budget: Amsterdam can be expensive, that of course depends on want you want to do, I’d recommend bringing AT LEAST €50 a day. That will cover a backpackers food and accommodation and some activities will be extra.

Last Stop: Paris, France interrail routes

It wouldn’t be a European adventure without stopping off in the city of love. Paris is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe , although it can be very expensive, it is definitely worth it. Much like Berlin, Paris is a big city, however, I recommend walking as much as you possibly can. This way you can experience the culture, city life and all that Paris has to offer. The picture above was taking from Galleries Lafayette. It’s my favourite view of Paris.

Things to do in Paris:

• Take photos of the Eiffel Tower from ever angle.
• Find that famous painting of Mona Lisa in the Louvre.
• Find all of Paris Instagramable Spots
• Try a French baguette
• Get a picture with the Arc de Triomphe

Currency: They use Euro in Paris

Estimated Budget: The budget needed for Paris would be similar to that of Berlin, So €50 a day is a must. Once again that will cover a backpackers food and accommodation for the day. Activities will be extra.

The 3 Week Interrail Train Schedule

Next, I will walk you through the train schedule for this suggested 3 week interrail route. Please note that the recommended time frame for this interrail itinerary is 3 weeks and will involve night train , direct trains and local trains.

Train Journey 1: Budapest (Hungry) to Split (Croatia)

It is actually super exciting boarding the first train of any interrail trip. Nerves are high and the excitement is even higher. It may feel as if you are completely unprepared but soon you will be a pro at travelling Europe by train.

The first journey on the list is Budapest to Split. This is the longest travel period of the trip. It takes a total of 15 hours and 1 change over (under two hours) in Zagreb Croatia.

Don’t let the long train time scare you, the train journey’s are what you make them. Start to socialise with other travellers, exchange stories and make lifelong friends.

The first train journey is a day train and does not require a reservation. It is however, a popular route so if you want a guaranteed seat I suggest making a booking.

The second train is a night train, once again a reservation is not required. It is however important to note that to stay in a sleeper carriage requires a reservation.

Train Journey 2: Split (Croatia) to Lake Bled (Slovenia)

The next train journey on the interrail itinerary is Split to Lake Bled. Now, Lake Bled can be a little tricky to get too but… 100% totally worth it. So, if you are willing to make the journey this is the best route.

Book a bed in the sleeper carriage for the night train going from split to Zagreb taking a total of 8 hours. Once you arrive in Zagreb hop on a train to Jesenice, Slovenia for a 3 hour and minute journey.

At Jesenice you will have to catch a local bus to Lake Bled from the train station. It will cost about 3 euros.

Train Journey 3: Lake Bled (Slovenia) to Munich (Germany)

Ok, so as I mentioned I ended up in Munich by complete accident. So, my train schedule from Bled was a bit topsy turvy.

I do, however recommend you take the night train pictured above. Please note that schedule changes on a regular basis and reservation is required. So, be sure to check the interrail train scheduler for updates.

Train Journey 4: Munich (Germany) to Prague (Czech Republic)

The journey from Munich to Prague is an easy 4 hour and 40 minute ride. The only difference is it’s a bus journey instead of train. Don’t worry it is included in the interrail pass. Just note that a reservation is required.

Train Journey 5: Prague (Czech Republic) to Berlin (Germany)

The next journey on our interrail itinerary is Prague to Berlin. This journey takes a total of 4 hours and runs several times a day. No reservation in required and there is a bar on board 😉

Train Journey 5: Berlin (Germany) to Amsterdam (The Netherlands)

A direct train from Berlin to Amsterdam takes 6 hours and 20 minutes. No reservation is required and the route runs at least twice daily. Alternatively, there is a route with a similar ETA with one change over.

Train Journey 5: Amsterdam (The Netherlands) to Paris (France)

The final train journey of our interrail route is from Amsterdam to Paris. It takes a total of 3 hours and 20 minutes to complete. BUT… A RESERVATION IS REQUIRED. Don’t make the same mistake as I did. I end up spending an extra 3 hours on local trains as I overlooked the reservation.

What is Interrailing?

Interrailing is an amazing experience, one that can’t be missed. It is a hassle-free way of visiting several European countries without the dreaded airport liness, long stopovers and waiting at the baggage claim.

Interrailing is possibly one of the most popular travel experience for those on a gap year, young college students or adventurous backpackers. It is a ‘unlimited rail pass’ so to speak. A pass that grants ticket holders access to over 30 countries in Europe, with free use of their well connected train routes. All without the need to purchase a ticket, at least most of the time. <- A little more that later.

Who can avail of the Interrail Pass?

The interrail pass is available to anyone who has citizenship in Europe. For those of you living outside of Europe, don’t worry, there is an alternative pass called ‘Eurrail’. It can be slightly more expensive, but still 10 times cheaper than booking individual train tickets. Unless you are a really good planner and book WELL in advance.

however, there is one catch, do you remember that old saying ‘Age is but a number’ well that doesn’t apply in interrail territory. When it comes the prices, interrail is most definitely in favour of those on the more youthful side of life.

Interrail offers a hefty discount to those between the ages of 12 to 27. So, if your are starting to enter your mid 20’s like myself. I suggest you get in there quickly and book your interrail pass today .

It is however, not the end of the world, for those of you a little bit older. Interrail still over rail passes, just not at a discounted price.

*Find a list of the countries that qualify for an interrail pass click here*

Is there just one type of Interrail pass?

There are three types of Interrail passes, the Global Pass , the One Country Pass and the Premium Pass . The Global pass allows passengers to travel through the majority of European countries using the one train ticket. The One Country pass allows passengers to travel freely through one country. The Premium Pass allows passengers to travel through Italy or Spain with pre-booked seats and unlimited journeys a day. 

If you are planning on using my interrail Itinerary, you will need to book the Global Pass.

Can you explain how the Global Pass Works?

Certainly, The Global pass is designed to allow passengers to travel to over 40,000 European destinations by train, including 31 countries in total. There are two types of Interrail Global Passes. The non consecutive pass and the continuous pass.

The non consecutive pass gives ticket holders the option to travel Europe by train over a certain period of time using a certain amount of days. Generally speaking, this pass is for those who plan on spending two, three or more days at each destination.

An example of the non consecutive pass is the 10 days within two months pass. That pass allows passengers to use their interrail pass 10 times over the space of 2 months. The pass can be used every few days or one day after the other. Get you non consecutive interrail pass here.

The continuous pass allows passengers to use their pass whenever they like during a set period of time, without having to worry about having a limited number of days. This pass is usually purchased by people who are planning on spending 1 day in each destination and then moving on to the next.

An example of the continuous interrail pass is the 22 days pass. The pass allows interrail passengers to travel freely through Europe as they please. Get your Continuous interrail pass here.

Are there any additional costs with the Interrail pass?

Yes, if you want to take any trains that need reservations, they come at an additional cost. Which is something you need to factor into your Interrail Budget . I will let you know the trains that need reservation for my interrail itinerary in the train schedule section of this post. 

It also cost extra to purchase a bed on the night trains. Just think of it as paying for a nights stay in a hostel, but instead of waking up in the same room, you will wake in a new exciting destination. Like, how cool is that?

And that’s a wrap!

This brings us to the end of our European itinerary. I want to thank you for taking the time to read this post and hope it helps you plan your backpacking europe route! Have an amazing adventure.

All train timetable screenshots where taking from the Interrail Train Time Planner . I don’t own these screenshots. Interrail tickets can be purchased on the official Interrail Website .

Disclaimer: Please note, this website contains affiliate links, as by I may make a little commission. This is at no extra cost to you.

Planning a trip to Europe? Here’s some post to help with your planning!

• Fairytale Places in Europe
• 2 Week Europe Itinerary
• 3 Week Europe Itinerary
• How much my 4 Month Europe Trip Cost
• Best Hostels in Europe (My Personal Reviews)
• How big Texas is compared to Europe (I’m Shocked)

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14 Comments

Wow! This is awesome! I have never been to Europe or UK, but the pictures said a lot… I would love to visit Paris. Thanks for sharing.

You should Definitely visit Europe. Their trains are so connected, makes it super easy to visit so many countries in such a short period of time.

Ummmm this sounds like the perfect itinerary!! When can I start?!

Start Now !! <3

AH! This makes me feel so much better about doing my train trip in east and central europe this September. I really think this is a very well done and professional looking post ( no seriously) It looks great! Thanks for sharing!

The trains are so good throughout Europe. Best of Luck with your trip. You will have an amazing time 🙂

That itinerary seems wonderful! Ive always wanted to do that interail but somehow it never worked for me. I am glad you’ve got to see cities like Prague, Berlin, Munich or Amsterdam as they are so beautiful! You must have an amazing time! ( but I bet you wont miss this long train rides for a while? 🙂 )

I actually like travelling on the trains. Great place to catch up on some well-needed sleep. When we weren’t sleeping we were chatting away to other travellers or enjoying the beautiful views.

I would love to take a train trip like this eventually, but my trips are always too short to be able to take all that time for the train journey. One day! So far I’ve been on one train from Chaumont, France to Paris, and the seating was kind of difficult to understand. People kept getting on the train and asking people to move, since they were in their assigned seats, so I don’t think we were the only ones confused. Still, every time the train stopped we were so anxious that we would be asked to move as well, and now I’m a little nervous that I’ll be just as confused in future train travels. Ha!

A lot of seats on the French trains are reserved. I wouldn’t disagree they can be quite tricky to understand.

Definitely marking this for when I plan my trip to Europe!

Best of Luck with your travels, Glad you liked it 🙂

This looks like an amazing trip! I’ll have to look into seeing Europe by rail.

You so should. It’s an adventure of a lifetime

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How to Plan an Epic 2 Week Europe Trip (+ Europe Itinerary Ideas!)

Ready to plan a 2 week Europe trip but not quite sure where to start?

We want to help!

Whether it’s your first trip to Europe or your tenth, there’s something simultaneously overwhelming and exhilarating about planning a trip through multiple countries that–for us and most of the readers of this blog post–lie across an ocean from home.

I’ll never forget planning our first 2 week Europe itinerary: I pored over flight schedules, bucket lists, budgets, and maps for months, desperate to pull together the ultimate Europe trip.

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There were many, many lists involved in planning that first trip, and after months of planning, I emerged with an eclectic but incredible itinerary that kicked our love of travel into high gear.

In the summer of 2015, Jeremy and I spent a little over 2 weeks in Europe exploring Krakow , Budapest , Plitvice Lakes National Park , Zadar , Dublin , and the Cliffs of Moher (I told you it was eclectic!).

We’ve now cumulatively spent years of our lives traveling in Europe, falling in love with world-famous cities and less iconic locations alike, and there’s absolutely nothing we like better than helping people plan their own unforgettable adventures.

Over the years, we’ve explored the continent in almost every way possible, from backpacking Europe on a budget for 2 weeks to checking into luxury hotels to playing tour guide for family and friends to finally spending more than a year living in Lisbon, Portugal !

We’ve put together this 2 week Europe itinerary guide to help you plan your trip–here’s what you need to know before you go.

(Also, yes–this is an incredibly long blog post! We recommend using the table of contents right below this paragraph to help you navigate to different sections depending on what you’re hoping to read first.)

Table of Contents

How to Use This 2 Week Europe Trip Guide

Exciting 2 week europe itinerary ideas, how to get around during 2 weeks in europe, important tips for planning a 2 week europe trip, faq for spending 2 weeks in europe, what to pack for 2 weeks in europe, read more about visiting europe.

This 2 week Europe trip guide is designed for someone hoping to see the highlights of a few different European destinations, spread across multiple countries, in only a couple of weeks.

We’ve primarily written it for someone planning their first trip to Europe, but if this is your second trip, third trip, or beyond, hopefully, we have some interesting ideas and tips for you, too!

And, of course, given that Europe is home to more than 50 countries and is roughly the same size as the USA, no 2 weeks in Europe could hope to cover the entire continent or all of its numerous and distinct cultures, languages, and histories.

For ease of communication, we’ll talk in general terms about traveling in Europe here, but once you pick your itinerary, of course, you’ll want to follow up with further research on the specific locations you’ll be visiting.

And, once you’re further along in your planning process, we’d love to help you with some of that planning here on Our Escape Clause, too!

We’ll link to relevant blog posts throughout this travel guide, but given the hundreds of posts we have on the site, we won’t be able to link them all.

You can use our destinations page or the search bar on the top right of the page (on desktop) or at the top of the pop-out menu (on mobile) to find our content about various specific destinations across Europe or general travel tips.

For example, a few of our most popular guides that might come in handy next include our guide to traveling Europe by train , our 75 best Europe travel tips , and our (biased) guide to the best cities in Europe .

The number of possible 2 week Europe itinerary ideas is truly infinite–just look at the odd itinerary that I cobbled together for us in 2015 as an example !

However, the sample itineraries for Europe outlined below should give you a good idea of what you can accomplish with around 14 days in Europe .

I truly struggled to narrow down these ideas–I could name 10 more excellent 2 week Europe trips in an instant, and still feel like I was leaving so much on the table.

I aimed to keep these mostly focused on destinations that are popular for first-time visitors to Europe, with just a couple of slight curve balls thrown in.

The Classic: London, Paris, Rome

As three of the world’s most beloved and celebrated cities, you can’t go wrong with splitting your 2 weeks in Europe between London, Paris, and Rome.

As the capital of an English-speaking country and home to an enormous airport hub, London makes logistical sense for a first trip to Europe hailing from North America–and, of course, it’s a truly fascinating city.

Visit Buckingham Palace and Hyde Park, stroll through Notting Hill, snap photos of Big Ben, check out the Tower Bridge and the Tower of London , visit the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, stop by Piccadilly Circus, ride the London Eye , and tour the British Museum.

… And that’s just to get you started !

The City of Lights is one of our favorite cities in the world and was also the first place we visited on our very first trip to Europe (we spent a week there and then planned our 2 week Europe trip outlined in the introduction of this blog post the following year).

Since then, we haven’t been able to stop going back, and believe that it’s an excellent addition to any 2 week Europe itinerary!

While you’re in Paris , visit the Eiffel Tower, marvel at the beauty of Sainte-Chapelle, tour the Louvre and the Musee d’Orsay, stroll the picturesque streets of Montmartre and the Latin Quarter, visit the Palais Garnier, discover hidden passages and tiny cafes, and soak up every minute of that Parisian charm.

Our full guide to planning your first trip to Paris can help you get started!

Ah, Rome –if Paris is the first European city we fell in love with, Rome is probably our deepest love on the continent.

From wonders of Ancient Rome like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Pantheon to more recent additions like the Vatican Museums , Trevi Fountain, and winding cobblestone streets of Trastevere , exploring Rome is a captivating, engaging experience that we can’t recommend highly enough.

And, of course, you couldn’t ask for a better cuisine to savor during your 2 weeks in Europe: Rome is home to some of the best pasta in all of Italy!

Southern Europe Charm: Madrid, Rome, Amalfi Coast

Want your 2 weeks in Europe to focus on a delightful combination of history, food, and sunshine?

Head directly to Spain and Italy!

While Barcelona gets all the love (and a lot of the crowds), we’re personally smitten with the Spanish capital of Madrid… and excellent flight deals from North America make it almost irresistible on a 2 week Europe itinerary.

With a few days in Madrid , you can admire world-class art in the Prado, soak in Spanish culture with a stroll through Retiro Park, eat all the tapas and churros con chocolate you can get your hands on, tour the Royal Palace , check out an Egyptian temple, and take day trips to fairytale towns like Toledo and Segovia.

I described Rome in the first Europe itinerary on this list, so I won’t repeat myself here, but as I sit typing this Europe travel blog post out in a Rome apartment while dreaming of the carbonara I’ll eat for dinner tonight, all I can say is: you won’t regret coming to Rome (and scroll up for more details).

And, while I detailed some of Rome’s highlights above, let me also say… don’t forget to get off the beaten path in the Eternal City , either!

Amalfi Coast

The famed Amalfi Coast , with its dramatic cliffs, chic villages like Positano, delicious lemons, and jaw-droppingly beautiful hikes like the Path of the Gods, is a fabulous conclusion to any 2 week Europe trip–where better to relax than one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world?

While you’re there, be sure to make room for plenty of day trips!

Iconic locations like Capri and Pompeii , as well as less-popular but equally amazing spots like Ischia, Herculaneum , and Procida, are all at your fingertips when staying on the Amalfi Coast.

(Also, if you like page-turning novels about friendship and Italy, I highly recommend reading Elena Ferrante’s My Brilliant Friend series before coming or while visiting Europe).

Regal Central Europe: Prague, Vienna, Budapest

Sweeping boulevards, dramatic architecture, beautiful coffeehouses, and tasty comfort food: a trip to Central Europe is an absolute delight.

In my opinion, this region truly shines during the winter months when Christmas markets are in full swing and the hearty cuisine keeps you warm from the inside out.

I’ll try to keep this section quite brief, as I’ve already written a detailed Central Europe itinerary here , but suffice it to say, we love it.

Known as the City of a Hundred Spires (and also for the fact that beer is cheaper than water here–true story, at least when it comes to pricey bottled water at restaurants), Prague is easily in the running for the most beautiful city in Europe.

The beauty of Prague Castle, St. Vitus Cathedral, the famed Charles Bridge, and Prague’s well-known astronomical clock will all draw you in.

If you have enough time, consider adding a day trip to a smaller Czech town like gorgeous Český Krumlov as well!

Regal and beautiful, full of spacious, wide avenues and ornate buildings, Austria’s capital city is the perfect place to come to tour grand palaces ( Schonbrunn is one of the most popular), see a show in one of the world’s premier opera houses, and to enjoy European cafe culture at its finest.

We absolutely adore Vienna’s coffee houses–be sure to try a slice (or several) of Esterhazy Cake while there, as well as Viennese hot chocolate.

The city’s famed Spanish riding school and striking St. Stephen’s Cathedral are also worth adding to your list!

As our favorite city in central Europe and one of our top 10 cities in Europe overall, I really can’t say enough about how beautiful Budapest is! 

The city is somehow, simultaneously, both grand and down-to-earth , absolutely gorgeous while also remaining accessible, affordable, and fairly simple to visit and explore.

While in Budapest, go for a soak in the famous thermal baths, tour one of the most beautiful houses of Parliament in Europe, check out a castle, visit grand basilicas, take a boat ride down the Danube, and, if you’re up for a bit of adventure, even go on a cave tour!

Be sure not to miss the great food , either–Budapest’s hearty cuisine is a delight, and one of our all-time favorite wine tastings took place there!

Europe for Art Lovers: Paris, Florence, Venice

If you’re an art buff at heart, you can’t ask for a better sampling of some of the continent’s most beloved artistic cities than the trifecta of Paris, Florence, and Venice (and it certainly helps that each city is practically an art museum in and of itself).

From the Louvre to the Musee d’Orsay to the Orangerie to the Musee Rodin to the Centre Pompidou to the Cluny Museum, it would probably take a lifetime to enjoy all the art museums in Paris alone.

And of course, the city has so much more to offer once you need a break!

Nicknamed the Cradle of the Renaissance, Florence boasts the finest collection of Renaissance art on the planet–and claims many of its most famous artists as locals. 

Michelangelo, DaVinci, Botticelli, and more all originally hailed from Florence, and their works are scattered about the city.

Perhaps most famously, Michelangelo’s David is in the Galleria dell’Accademia and Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus is in the Uffizi Gallery .

And of course, no art-focused trip to the Cradle of the Renaissance can overlook Florence’s iconic Duomo , a masterpiece of the era!

Located an easy train ride away from Florence, Venice may be slightly less well-known for its art than the first two cities on this 2 week Europe itinerary, but there’s no doubt that there’s plenty to find!

From the utter masterpiece of St. Mark’s Basilica (don’t miss a chance to go in!) to the incredible Doge’s Palace to the famous Galleria dell’Accademia (not to be confused with the one in Florence!) that focuses mostly on Venetian artists, Venice is an art lover’s dream.

Mix it up by adding a visit to the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, which holds modern art, and a gondola ride .

A fter all, Venice itself is no doubt one of the best artistic masterpieces in the city, and it deserves to be seen from all its best angles.

The Incredible Iberian Peninsula: Lisbon, The Algarve, Andalucia

The Iberian Peninsula is dominated by Spain and Portugal , and while I might be biased after spending more than a year living in Lisbon, it makes for an unforgettable Eurotrip!

(The fact that there are often flight deals from the US to Lisbon and Madrid doesn’t hurt, either).

There are infinite ways to craft southern Europe itineraries out of these two countries, but here’s one great option…

Start your trip with a few days in Lisbon , Portugal’s trendy capital city, soaking up beautiful views from its many miradouros , sampling Portuguese food (starting with pastéis de nata ), touring the incredible Jerónimos Monastery, and taking day trips from Lisbon to nearby gems like the palaces of Sintra and/or the beach resort town of Cascais .

Be prepared to head up and down a lot of hills while you’re there–but Lisbon is worth the climb.

If you’re looking for neighborhoods to wander through, Alfama, Castelo, Chiado, and Bairro Alto are particularly picturesque–keep an eye out for trams, azulejos, and peacocks as you explore!

And, while Lisbon’s top attractions are definitely worth a visit, seeking out some of the many hidden gems in Lisbon will add extra beauty to your trip.

The Algarve

After saying goodbye to Lisbon, head south of Portugal’s Algarve for a dizzying array of whitewashed villages (you’ll find many of the best beach towns in Portugal here) and a picturesque coastline.

Lagos is one of the most popular places to stay, and we can highly recommend it–don’t miss the famous Ponta da Piedade, which photos can’t do justice to.

Nearby attractions (ideally, you’ll want to rent a car in the Algarve) include the famous Benagil Cave and the unmissable Seven Hanging Valleys Trail!

For the second week of your trip in Europe, cross the border into southern Spain (note: there’s no direct train access for this journey, but there are buses).

Split your time between any two of Andalucia’s incredible cities, taking nearby day trips from there.

Seville (with its Alcazar and famous Plaza de Espana), Granada (home of the Alhambra ), and Cordoba (home of the Mosque-Cathedral , one of the most unique houses of worship in the world) are all wonderful inland options.

On the coast, options include Cadiz, Malaga, Marbella, Tarifa, and many more.

With a bit more than 2 weeks in Europe or an ambitious schedule, you may be able to squeeze in a day trip to Gibraltar and/or Tangier, Morocco while here!

Food + History: Athens, Santorini, Istanbul

Feel like heading further east–as far east as you can get during a Europe vacation?

Greece and Turkey pair very well for a 14 day European itinerary–here’s what that might look like.

Start your trip in Athens, marveling at some of the world’s most remarkable ruins, including the famous Acropolis complex and museum.

Be sure to make time to explore non-ancient aspects of Athens as well, including the trendy Plaka neighborhood, Monastiraki Square (and nearby flea market!), and Syntagma Square.

And of course, one of the absolute best things to do after you touch down in Athens is to dive into plate after plate of phenomenal Greek food –that alone is worth traveling to Greece for ( our Athens food tour remains one of my favorites that we’ve taken in Europe).

Truly, any one of Greece’s amazing islands would fit nicely into this 2 week Europe itinerary, but where better to choose than Santorini , with its iconic blue-and-white color scheme, fantastic caldera views, and excellent flight connections?

While Santorini isn’t best known for its beaches–you’re better off heading to Crete for those–you sure can’t beat the charming villages or stunning nature.

The city of two continents, where thousands of years of history blend seamlessly with modern life, and where you can eat one of the best breakfasts you’ll ever experience in your life: Istanbul tops bucket lists around the world, and there is simply nowhere on the planet quite like it.

Marvel at the Blue Mosque, step inside the Hagia Sophia, eat your weight in Turkish breakfast (seriously, I can’t emphasize enough how tasty it is), admire the views of the Bosphorus, climb the Galata Tower, and shop your way through the Grand Bazaar.

Since this Europe travel blog post focuses on, well, Europe, I won’t sketch out any other possibilities further east in Turkey in detail…

But, if you have time, you could easily add a visit to Cappadocia , complete with a sunrise hot air balloon ride, to your trip, or even a visit to the ruins of Ephesus.

Architecture + Culture: Cologne, Amsterdam, Belgium

With this small triangle of destinations, you can easily visit separate countries via train, with very little travel time between them!

And, if you were particularly motivated to add another, you could even squeeze in a day trip to Luxembourg.

If you’re looking for a winter itinerary for Europe that focuses on cities, this is a fantastic option.

Home to a stunning cathedral and what may just be the best Christmas markets on the planet, Cologne is a gorgeous German city that is a delight to explore on foot.

Don’t miss its soaring Gothic Cathedral while you’re there!

… Though honestly, that would be hard to do, considering you can see it right as you step outside the train station.

As one of the most popular cities to visit in Europe, Amsterdam requires no introduction.

The city of canals, biking, and revelry is somehow even more beautiful in person than in the billions of photos of it.

While you’re there, be sure to take a canal cruise, stroll the 9 Streets, and visit at least a couple of the city’s museums (the Anne Frank House is incredibly moving).

If you visit Amsterdam in winter , you’ll no doubt need to bundle up–but the lack of crowds in this often-packed city is also a treat to experience.

Perhaps it may be slightly unfair to list Belgium entirely while the other destinations are split into cities… but considering Belgium’s two most popular cities, Bruges and Ghent , are located less than an hour apart by train, you can cover quite a bit of the country in a few days !

With stunning architecture, canals, and carbs (bring on the waffles and frites), it’s easy to have a blast in Belgium.

Winter in Belgium brings a lack of crowds and plenty of festivities during the Christmas season!

Alpine Escape: Bavaria, Switzerland’s Jungfrau Region, Milan, and Lake Como

If your dream Europe trip involves plenty of Alpine views with a side of cities, this is the itinerary for Europe in 2 weeks for you.

Start your trip in Bavaria, the land of castles, beer, and outdoor delights.

City lovers will enjoy being based in Munich (don’t miss the opulent Munich Residenz or view from St. Peter’s Church and/or the Town Hall Tower while there).

From Munich, you can easily day trip to more mountainous areas, starting with Fussen, home to Germany’s famous Neuschwanstein Castle .

If you get good weather and want to see as many mountains as possible, a day trip to the Zugspite–the highest point in Germany–is also an option.

Really, though, if there’s one thing to prioritize in Munich, it’s to eat and drink all the sausage, pretzels, beer, and beyond you can get your hands on!

Switzerland’s Jungfrau Region

I am convinced that Switzerland’s Jungfrau region–located around (literally, above) Interlaken–is paradise on earth in the summer.

If you’re dreaming of the Alps, check into a hotel in Wengen, Murren, or Grindelwald (for the best views) or Interlaken (for a bit more selection) or Lauterbrunnen (to be in the literal center of the action) and have the trip of your dreams.

Switzerland’s legendarily efficient trains and gondolas mean that wherever you stay, the region is at your fingertips.

Hiking from Mannlichen to Kleine Scheidigg, riding the highest train in Europe to Jungfraujoch (aka the “Top of Europe”), eating daily fondue, walking from Murren to Gimmelwald , and riding a historic cogwheel train to Schynige Platte are just a few of the unforgettable experiences you’ll find here.

Milan + Lake Como

End your trip to Milan and Lake Como , two of the most popular destinations in northern Italy!

In Milan , be sure to visit its legendary Duomo, stroll through the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, visit Sforzesco Castle, and, if you can get tickets (plan ahead!) see Da Vinci’s The Last Supper .

At Lake Como (just an hour north of Milan by train), take a boat tour around the lake and visit delightfully charming towns like Varenna and Bellagio while admiring magnificent Alpine views.

Getting around in each city on your 2 week Europe itinerary is a question better suited to blog posts on that particular city, so this section is designed to address getting in between each destination during your 14 days in Europe.

We recommend checking several solutions for each destination, as you never know what will crop up!

Personally, our first 2 week Europe trip involved an overnight train, a budget plane ride, and a couple of rental cars.

Train travel is our absolute favorite way to travel in Europe!

I t’s much less stressful than traveling by plane, especially once you get the hang of it, far more comfortable, and for those of us hailing from North America, it’s a travel experience in its own right!

We recommend using services like Omio to compare train prices across multiple countries.

It works more or less exactly like a car rental aggregate does, searching multiple companies and generating the best routes and prices for your dates.

Keep in mind that train travel is most useful in western and central Europe–once you head into eastern Europe and especially the Balkans, train travel becomes more limited and bus travel more common (for example, popular Dubrovnik, Croatia doesn’t have a train station).

Shop train routes and tickets prices in Europe today!

For those traveling on a budget or between two smaller destinations where rail travel isn’t an option, buses can be a very affordable choice.

In addition to standard local buses, companies like Flixbus provide an easy-to-use service, and you can check their prices and availability directly or through Omio as well (that way you can compare train tickets at the same time).

Browse bus routes in Europe today!

With plenty of budget airlines and plenty of airports to choose from, if you plan wisely, it’s possible to take flights in Europe that are so inexpensive you wonder how the company pays for the fuel.

S eriously: 10 Euro flights are possible, though we’ve never actually managed to pay that since we prefer to check our bags !

When looking for flights within Europe, we recommend using Google Flights in order to search the whole continent at once (you can simply put “Europe” in as the destination, and it’ll pull up a map of prices). 

With a little flexibility on destination (for example, maybe flying into nearby Bologna is cheaper than flying into Florence ?) and even on dates if possible, you just might end up with an excellent flight deal or two during your trip to Europe.

Personally, we recommend avoiding a car rental when possible during your 2 weeks in Europe, especially if you’re following anything resembling a Europe itinerary like the ones I outlined above.

In large cities, rental cars are a hindrance and a liability, not an asset, and they add quite a bit to your bottom line.

That being said, if you’re planning on visiting any rural areas or small towns, road trips in Europe can be a delight!

Y ou could consider renting a car for a couple of days in Tuscany , for example, or to visit the villages of Provence.

If you do choose to rent a car, we recommend searching for the best prices through Discover Cars , which will allow you to search multiple companies at once and come up with a great option. 

While major international carriers like Hertz and Enterprise are available in Europe, they’re not always the best deal, and searching for a combination of local and international companies is best.

Personally, we have no loyalty to any one rental car company, and book with whoever is most affordable (and we always buy the extra insurance).

As a result, we’ve rented cars through easily more than 15 or 20 agencies over the years (I’d be hard-pressed even to estimate it), and we’ve never had any issues with surprise charges.

Price out rental cars with Discover Cars now!

Don’t forget boats when it comes to planning a 2 week Europe itinerary, especially over the summer!

While ferries between or to/from islands are obviously the most popular ( Dubrovnik to Hvar , for example, or Barcelona to Mallorca), there are longer ferry options as well!

Last summer, we took a ferry from Barcelona to Rome and loved the experience of drifting along the Mediterranean Sea for 24 hours!

Many ferry routes are seasonal, but not all.

Don’t plan to visit too many destinations.

With only around 14 days in Europe, I know it can be incredibly tempting to squeeze in as many destinations as possible (and I have many fevered outlines of ridiculously ambitious trips I planned in my college days to prove it), but your trip will go so much more smoothly if you can resist that temptation.

In most cases, we recommend an absolute minimum of two full days per major city.

By full days, I mean with limited exceptions (like a red-eye flight that lands at 8:00 AM), the day you arrive and the day you depart don’t count as a “day” in a given city–just as a travel day.

Three or four days per city is even better and will allow you to potentially squeeze in a day trip from that city to a smaller city or village if you want to mix things up.

Start and end in a major airport hub.

It doesn’t necessarily have to be the same hub–more on that below–but there are definitely airports that are cheaper to fly into and out of for intercontinental flights than others.

Budapest may be affordable once you’re there, for example, but flying from the US directly to Budapest can hurt the wallet!

For those of you coming from the USA, London, Dublin , Madrid , Paris , Lisbon , Frankfurt, Amsterdam , and Milan are a few places to check ticket prices for.

That’s not an exhaustive list by any means, but there are often flight deals to and from these cities.

If you can, use an open-jaw ticket rather than a return ticket.

This will allow you to begin and end your 2 weeks in Europe in entirely different destinations, and let you avoid doubling back!

While one-way tickets can be pricier than round-trip ones, if you’re flexible on your dates and destinations (so deciding which cities to start and end in partially based on price), you can usually find excellent deals

This is exactly how we ended up flying into Krakow and out of Dublin for our first 2 week Europe trip!

You will be exhausted at some point. Plan for it.

Two weeks in Europe may not seem like a ton, but if you’re anything like us or virtually all of the travelers we have talked to, exhaustion will set in during your trip.

Sightseeing in Europe is fabulous, but it’s also tiring.

Add in navigating cultural differences, language barriers, and moving countries every few days, and you’re bound to need a break at some point.

We recommend planning a couple of laid-back days without museum visits, tours, or day trips so that you can catch your breath and avoid burnout.

Try to be flexible with where you go.

As you start pricing train, plane, and bus tickets for your trip to Europe, you’ll likely notice dramatic shifts–for example, is it 4x the money to get to London instead of Amsterdam?

Does traveling to Prague require a long flight and 2 layovers but Rome is a quick hop away?

If you can, be flexible when you come upon these challenges: we recommend having 1-2 “must visit” destinations and filling in the rest of your trip based on a combination of logistics and desire.

After all, there’s no way you can see it all on a 2 week Europe trip anyway!

Don’t underestimate the time and energy it takes to change destinations.

“Oh, it’s only a 3-hour train ride away! That’s nothing!”

I think we’ve all said that at some point when planning a multi-country trip, but be cautious.

Three hours on the train doesn’t account for packing and unpacking, getting to and from the train station, checking out of and into a hotel… you get the picture.

If you’re looking at a high-level schedule without picking a specific date or time, you may also come to find that sure, there’s one direct 3-hour train between two cities… but it leaves at 10:00 PM or 6:00 AM, and the rest of the trains require layovers.

Or perhaps the direct train only runs 3 days a week.

Or maybe you’re looking at a plane, in which case, be sure to add at least 4 hours to your transit time: getting to and from the airport and security/check-in beforehand.

Long story short, travel days between countries are virtually always more tiring and time-consuming than they look at first glance, so don’t overcommit on those days when planning your ultimate Europe trip!

Big cities are more accessible than small towns and nature areas.

For the first trip to Europe especially, big cities are absolutely the easiest to plan your itinerary for Europe around.

They’re generally easier and cheaper to get into and out of, and there’s far more information available about them online to help plan your trips.

That’s no reason not to visit other places too, of course–but keep in mind that the more rural the area, the more logistically challenging your trip will be.

Skip-the-line tickets are incredibly useful.

I’m sure it comes as absolutely no surprise that the world’s most iconic monuments and museums tend to get a bit crowded… and that makes skip-the-line tickets invaluable, especially with only 2 weeks in Europe to squeeze in as much sightseeing as possible.

In some places (like the Arc de Triomphe ) they’re available without any additional fee, and in other places (like the Colosseum) they cost a bit extra.

Either way, though, it’s 1000% worth the price and effort to get tickets online beforehand for popular spots, especially if you’re traveling during the high season.

And, in 2024, it’s worth pointing out that given ever-changing capacity limits, it’s a better idea than ever to book in advance–and for some attractions, it’s even required!

When 2020 shook the travel industry to its core, many of the most popular museums and monuments in Europe found that life was easier with reservations and online bookings, and have continued prioritizing that system over traditional lines and ticket booths even as crowds returned to “normal”.

We use skip-the-line tickets all over the continent and book them through Get Your Guide .

Book your hotels and major transportation in advance.

Before kicking off your 2 week Europe itinerary, we recommend having all of your hotels and major transportation (so travel between destinations) booked and ready to go.

This dramatically cuts down on stress levels, makes it easier to budget and plan out your days, and generally helps your trip run more smoothly.

These days, we book virtually all of our lodging (including apartments, farm stays, houses, and more) through Booking.com .

Smaller things, like metro passes or tickets for getting around cities, can be handled once you arrive.

If you can, we recommend taking at least one food tour during your 2 weeks in Europe.

Food tours are one of our favorite ways to get our bearings in a new city while learning about the culture, history, and neighborhood through something we can all appreciate: a tasty meal.

We’ve taken food tours in several countries around the world, including many in Europe, and have never walked away unsatisfied!

You do need to pay to use the restroom… sometimes.

Throughout Europe, public restrooms are generally available for a fee (typically either half a Euro or a Euro).

If you’d like to avoid those costs, be sure to take advantage of available restrooms in restaurants and museums as you sightsee !

Also, toilet paper is far from guaranteed in public toilets on the street.

We recommend carrying a small pack of tissues with you just in case.

Will I need an adapter?

Most likely, yes!

Luckily, adapters are cheap to buy and easy to carry–we recommend picking these up before you go.

Keep in mind that the UK and a few other countries ( Ireland , Malta ) use a separate plug from the bulk of the continent.

If you’re heading to a place that uses UK plugs, you’ll want these adapters as well.

Is a money belt a good idea?

It depends, honestly.

We used a money belt for our first trip to Europe and for a couple after that.

Back then, we weren’t used to life in bustling big cities, and though we knew that thieves knew about them (because they definitely do), Jeremy found them comfortable enough to wear and it was an easy way to keep our belongings a bit more secure.

If you’re not used to traveling in a big city or watching for pickpockets, I don’t think it’s a terrible idea to use one– this is the one we used and we had no complaints–but I also don’t think it’s necessary, especially if you’re comfortable in large cities.

Is the water safe to drink?

Usually, yes.

We drink out of the tap just about anywhere in Europe.

In rare cases where the water is not safe to drink (usually in remote areas of southern and eastern Europe, or in very old buildings with iffy pipes), there will generally be large and obvious signs stating so.

If you’re worried about it, though, you can always ask your hotel concierge or host about it!

Is it worth going to Europe for 2 weeks?

This is a pretty common question, and honestly, I get it: with long and expensive flights, it’s easy to wonder if flying to Europe for “only” 2 weeks is worth it.

But yes, it absolutely is!

Two weeks in Europe is long enough that you’ll have plenty of time to get past jetlag, visit several destinations, and have a wonderful trip packed with memories.

Now whether or not it’s worth flying to Europe for just one week is a bit more controversial… but we love to travel Europe so much that we still say yes (for some people).

How extreme is the language barrier?

It varies significantly, of course, but generally, it’s not nearly as difficult as first-time visitors to Europe worry before they arrive (ourselves included).

We recommend learning basic phrases in the language of the countries you are visiting during your 2 week Europe itinerary, but this is usually more for good manners than out of necessity.

While you can absolutely find monolingual Europeans in virtually any country, especially in smaller cities and towns, the people employed in customer service roles and in the tourism industry in major cities–in other words, where most or all of your 2 weeks in Europe will likely take place–generally speak some English.

How many European countries should you visit in 2 weeks?

For most travelers, we recommend roughly 3 “base” destinations for a 2 week Europe trip, plus a couple of day trips from there to mix things up.

These can all be in one country (for example, here’s how we recommend spending 2 weeks in Italy ), or they can be in 3 separate countries!

There are plenty of exceptions to this standard layout, of course, but it’s a doable but exciting number of destinations to work with for most 14 day Europe itineraries.

When should I tip?

While this is very country and industry-dependent, generally speaking, tipping is not nearly as prominent in Europe as it is in the USA, and you’ll virtually never need to tip over 10%.

In some countries, you may also tip 5-10% at restaurants, while in others, you might round up the bill or leave nothing at all.

Frequently, a “service charge” will be automatically supplied to the bill which serves the purpose of a tip.

For tour guides, a 10% tip is common.

What’s the best month to visit Europe?

All of them, except August.

I kid–somewhat–but honestly, every single month in Europe has its perks!

For a concise answer, the late spring (April-May) and early fall (September-October) are considered ideal by most travelers.

August is specifically difficult because it’s not only very hot in many of Europe’s most popular destinations, but most Europeans take vacations then, so many places (especially in the mountains and on the coast) are at their priciest.

If we absolutely had to visit Europe only during one month for the rest of our lives, we’d pick September, though October is a very close second.

What’s the cheapest month to visit Europe?

It depends–trying to spot the northern lights in Tromso would be one exception to this, for example–but for standard first time Europe itineraries like the ones I outlined in this blog post, January and February are often the cheapest months to visit.

When the Christmas markets are over and the gray weather settles in, you can score great deals on vacations in Europe (and have plenty of room to stretch out at iconic monuments).

How far in advance should I book my trip?

For plane tickets, as soon as you can commit to dates!

Not only will this allow you to have more time to plan and budget with a bit of structure, but it will also spread out your costs a bit more.

During peak seasons, like coastal locations in the summer or popular destinations during the Christmas season in Europe , you’ll want to book your hotels as far in advance as you can commit to them as well.

Can you do Europe for $100/day?

This depends a lot on the traveler, group size, etc, but my initial, instinctive answer is:

If you don’t include plane tickets to and from Europe, yes, absolutely, without a doubt–we’ve done it many, many, many times (as a couple).

The key is to shop for deals, visit during the off-season, not shy away from less common destinations (especially in Eastern Europe and the Balkans), and travel slowly.

The fewer destinations you visit, the cheaper a trip generally is!

If you want to stick to Western Europe, southern Spain , southern Portugal, and southern Italy can all be bargains (as compared to places like Paris and London) as well.

Here’s how we manage our travel budget.

We’ve put together detailed packing lists for various seasons in Europe, so be sure to check out our complete suggestions for spring , summer , fall , and winter before you head off on your 2 weeks in Europe.

We go into far more detail on what to wear in Europe there !

To get you started, though, here are a few essentials that should definitely be at the top of your list .

Travel Insurance — We don’t ever suggest traveling without travel insurance–anything can happen, and it’s better to be safe than sorry during your 2 weeks in Europe.

Check travel insurance policy inclusions and prices for your trip here.

Pacsafe — We can’t recommend our Pacsafe enough!

This travel safe is affordable, sturdy, easy to pack, and will help keep your valuables safe in your hotel room (not that you should need to worry much about theft from your hotel room during your trip to Europe, but it’s better to be safe than sorry!).

Comfortable Day Bag  — We currently use  Pacsafe’s sleek anti-theft backpack  and love it, but if you don’t want to shell out the cash for this trip, that’s totally understandable.

Just aim for something comfortable to wear, not flashy, and medium-sized–we used a  Northface Jester backpack  for years and loved it as well.

Travel Adapters for Europe — If you’re coming from outside of Europe, you’ll definitely need adapters for your electronics.

Be sure to check the requirements for any particular countries you visit–the United Kingdom, for example, is well-known for using different plugs than most of the continent.

Portable USB Charger — Don’t stress about your phone dying while you’re sightseeing!

Add a portable charger to your 2 weeks in Europe packing list.

Hand Sanitizer — We carry this everywhere, and never been sorry to have it floating around in our day bag.

Travel Journal — If you want to keep a travel journal during your 2 week Europe trip but can’t commit to a huge amount of writing each night, I can’t recommend the One Line a Day Journal enough.

I’ve been using it for more than 5 years now (I’m on my second volume!) and I absolutely love it.

In the process of booking your Europe trip and eager to keep planning?

We’d love to help!

You can browse all of our general Europe blog posts here , find articles about specific places through our destinations page , or check out these guides:

• Your 13-Step Guide to Traveling to Europe for the First Time
• The Perfect 2 Week Spain and Portugal Itinerary (+ Essential Tips!)
• How to Travel Europe By Train: The Ultimate Guide (+ Tips!)
• 11 Quick Tips for Finding + Using Toilets in Europe
• Prague, Vienna, Budapest, Beyond: Epic Central Europe Itinerary

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About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

58 thoughts on “How to Plan an Epic 2 Week Europe Trip (+ Europe Itinerary Ideas!)”

Great post! I’m actually working on my own 2 week itineraries through Europe post, but I might wait to publish until next year, when I’ve visited a few more spots. I totally agree that the key is to slow down and not switch cities every day or two. Three nights is perfect and sometimes more for the big cities. And yes, multi-city flights are so helpful so you don’t have to backtrack!

Thanks, Riana! We definitely love to slow down whenever we can. 🙂

Hi Kate! This is the BEST post related to Europe Itinerary out of the 1000 other posts that I have checked.

I am from India and I am planning for a trip in February end.

I definitely want to visit FINLAND (so that’s definitely in my list). From there, I am planning for Bupadest,Croatia OR Budapest, Prague OR Budapest/ Vienna.

Do you think this will be good for 2 weeks?

Waiting for your reply. And thanks a ton for such a beautiful detailed post.

Thank you so much, Akshay, that’s wonderful to hear!

That sounds like a wonderful itinerary. Croatia is a bit further out of the way than the other places, but it’s peaceful and beautiful during the winter and fairly simple to get to via a budget flight.

Hope you have an incredible trip to Europe!

Oh my goodness Kate, thank you so much for this post! This is exactly what I needed for my boyfriend and I to plan our trip to Europe in 2020. We want to visit Italy, Spain, France, and England but Greece and Croatia look amazing too! It’s so hard to decide.

Thank you, Jessica! So glad you found our blog helpful.

It is SO hard to decide, and honestly, it never gets any easier in my experience! All of those places are absolutely amazing, so no matter what you decide I’m sure you guys will have an incredible trip.

Italy, France, and Spain are really easy to pair together if you want to keep logistics simple, but really any combination of those would work.

What about panning around the seasons? Isn’t the Amalfi coast and Italy in general super hot during August?

It’s always nice to plan around the seasons when you can, but it depends on your availability!

Italy can be hot in August but it depends very much on where you go. It averages around 85 F / 30 C on the Amalfi Coast in August, which I have to admit isn’t enough to bother us, but it depends on where you’re coming from. It is high season there, though–very, very generally speaking, August is an expensive and crowded time to visit beaches in Europe because it’s when many Europeans tend to take their vacations and head to the coast!

Planning a trip in 2023-24 for my daughter’s graduation present. I was thinking maybe 2-3 weeks. On this trip, how much did you spend in total? I might end up being more because I usually pay for more luxurious than most, but will help with a little expectation of costs plus COLA increases obviously over the years. I figured I should start planning and saving now. lol

Hi Steven! We put this together based on years of traveling in Europe, so unfortunately I don’t have a specific figure to offer. So much varies, and can be impacted by where you go, how fast you travel (ie, how many times you change destinations), of course luxury as you mentioned, etc, etc. Generally speaking, for two people, I would say that $100/person/day is a good lower-midrange figure to calculate (excluding airfare), $200/person/day starts edging toward luxury territory, and of course, the sky is the limit.

That’s INCREDIBLY general, though. You’d be better off narrowing down which countries you plan to visit and calculating based on how long you plan to spend in each of them.

A few things to look at to give you an idea: price of hotels, price of day tours, projected cost of moving between destinations, and average cost of a meal. Those figures should give you a backbone to estimate a budget from.

What brand are the boots you are wearing in the photo “Comfortable Day Bag.” My wife loves them. Gift idea for when we go to Europe 🙂

Those are Ugg Kesey Motorcycle boots, and I love them too! Just got them out again for fall last week. 🙂

Hi kate I am planning to visit europe sometime in 2023(may/june) with my wife and son. Could you please guide me with an itinerary for 15 days Or so?? Swiss, italy, France, spain. After that we will go to a friend in England. If possible, the expenses involved as well. Thanks

Hi Abhijit! I’m not a travel agent, so that’s a bit beyond my scope. 🙂 Generally speaking, though, I’d recommend parring your itinerary down to 2 countries, or 3 at the absolute maximum. 4 countries in 15 days is a lot of travel! Luckily, all of those destinations pair well together, so you can mix and match fairly easily. Also very generally speaking, Italy and Spain will be the most affordable, and Switzerland by far the most expensive–but that depends a lot on where you go and what you do!

Hey Kate, All your pictures are amazing! What kind of cameras do you bring with you? And do you edit your photos? If so what do you use for that, they are all really bright, great pictures.

Hi Stefanie! Thank you so much! We’ve used different cameras over the years, but our main camera these days is a Sony A7 rIII. We love it, and yes, all the photos taken with it are edited in Lightroom. 🙂

Hi Kate, THANK YOU for the great article! I have booked my flights for a 2 week trip next spring, into London and out of Paris. I’ve been to both cities before, but do hope to get a few days in paris again. It’s stolen my heart.

What do you recommend in terms of getting from London to Rome, fairly quickly, and cheaply? I arrive into London mid-day and had hoped to just figure it out at the airport (Gatwick). Do you think that’s possible?

Thank you so much, Sarah! Your trip sounds fantastic.

I’d definitely plan on flying between London and Rome–it’ll be fastest and most likely cheapest, too. Check budget carriers like Ryanair, etc.

If you’re planning on flying out to Rome the same day you arrive in Gatwick, I’d absolutely recommend booking before you arrive. Be sure to double-check and make sure you’re flying out of Gatwick, too, or have time to change airports.

Hope you have an amazing time!

Oh wow I’m doing the same trip with my 3 sons. And unfortunately is the month that she said it’s the worst to go ..in August…oh well🤷🏽‍♀️ can’t do anything about it how but I am worried about the expense tho..

Love your information. I’m planning a trip to Italy and then we want to go to Salzburg as well in the summer of 2023. Our first time to Europe. We will be 60 in 2023 and we think we can plan this without going through a company. After reading your information, I feel comfortable. Two questions about hotels and transportation. What would you recommend for safe places for hotels in those two countries? We don’t need luxury but just comfort and clean. Would you recommend using rail between cities in Italy and it looks like you can travel from Venice to Salzburg by rail? Thoughts?

That’s great to hear, glad we could help!

Venice to Salzburg by rail is very doable in a day and a scenic journey. You’ll probably have to make a change, but that’s workable. Personally, we’d opt for it over flying in a heartbeat.

For hotels, I have several recommendations in our specific Venice and Salzburg posts (you can use the search bar to pull up everything we have on both cities). The centers of both places are quite safe, I wouldn’t worry much about that in a well-reviewed hotel.

Hope you guys have an unforgettable trip!

AWESOME Post!!!!

Please let me know if you have posted anything similar in 2020 or 2021. My wife and I are bringing our three teenagers and we will likely choose the Food & History trip. We both would like to speak with you if possible as we are planning our trip for December.

Hi guys! We don’t run tours ourselves, just provide information for independent travelers, but we’re always happy to answer a few questions about possible itineraries!

Hi Kate, THANK YOU for the amazing Pic ,for now i’m in South Africa Cape Town I’m planning a trip to Italy , France & Austria next year 2022 for 2weeks , Would you recommend using rail or Via Road way .

Thank you in advance & best Regards En vous remerciant d’avance et cordialement

Sounds like a fabulous trip!

Rail vs car depends entirely on where you’re going. If you’re sticking to cities, I’d recommend going by train. If you want to enjoy the countryside, a car could be helpful.

You can also mix-and-match, and rent a car for only part of your trip if you’re going to be in the countryside only part of the time.

Thank you for this awesome post, Kate! My husband and I are wanting to take our first international trip to Central Europe early spring 2022 and have reviewed your Central Europe post. What type of difficulties have you faced with international travel during COVID-19? Any issues with a country on your itinerary going into lock-down or no longer allowing tourists from the US?

We haven’t personally run into any issues with lockdowns interrupting our plans but of course, it’s always possible and things are changing constantly.

Most, if not all, countries in Europe are accepting vaccinated and/or tested US visitors now and haven’t shut their borders to US citizens again since the initial reopening. All of the countries included on our Central Europe itinerary are currently among them.

In addition to entry, some countries are requiring proof of vaccination in order to do certain things like eat in restaurants or check into hotels. Portugal, where we are now, is among them. It’s a very simple process as long as you have the paperwork in order!

Generally, if you plan to visit Europe from the US in 2022, we recommend arriving with proof of vaccination, a negative COVID test (check regularly for specifications as your flight gets closer), flexibility, and the expectation that you’ll wear a mask indoors and potentially in crowded outdoor areas.

I am not a public health expert, of course, and European countries all set their own restrictions, but in the early stages of planning, that’s what I’d keep in mind!

The reaction that we’ve seen from readers who visited in the second half of 2022 has generally been that it’s easier than they expected, but as we’ve all learned way too much in the last 2 years, none of us can predict the future!

Thanks so much, Kate! It definitely seems like flexibility is key as well as continuously monitoring each country’s individual rules for a multi-country trip. I think right now Hungary isn’t accepting tourists but fingers crossed that will change soon so we can replicate your trip. 🙂 Cheers to more adventures for you in 2022!

Hi Kate, my family is in the beginning phase of planning our first international trip and have decided on Europe! I really liked your recommendation of arriving and departing from different airports and I think departing from London would make sense (we’ll probably want to spend the most time there). All we’ve decided is to vacation for somewhere between 2-3 weeks, and we want to see London and Ireland (oh and I want to stay at least one night in a castle hotel!). Would you have any recommendations on destinations or experiences to share? Thanks!

How exciting–nothing like your first trip abroad. 🙂

We actually still haven’t been to London, which is a huge shame! Fingers crossed that 2022 is the year.

Ireland, on the other hand, is one of our absolute favorites! If you search “Ireland” on the top right corner of the blog (or on the pop out menu on mobile), all of our blog posts will come up, but this is a great one to start with: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/10-day-ireland-itinerary-ireland-road-trip/

We spent a night in this castle (slash manor house) and had a fantastic time: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/belleek-castle-county-mayo-ireland/

Ireland is one of our favorite places for road trips on the planet. You’ll love it!

Great post, thanks!

Need your advice here 🙂 We will be landing in London, staying there 3 days, then train to Paris (staying in Paris for 3 days). We fly back home from Lisbon and have 3 options: night train to Nice (spend some time there and then a few days in Lisbon), fly to Napoli (spend some time there and then fly to Lisbon) or fly to Lisbon and discover a bit more of Portugal… What would you recommend?

Oh and we are travelling with two teens who have never been to Europe… I’m trying to pack as much stuff, but wonder what would be too much :/

That’s a lot of hard choices! Each and every one of those destinations is a delight (and we’re living in Lisbon right now).

I’d opt for Nice if you’re looking for coastal views, picturesque villages, and something logistically simple. Nice is a delightful city and the day trips to nearby villages like Eze as well as Monaco are phenomenal. It is the most formal and pricey of the 3 cities and will have a resort feel near the coast in the summer.

Naples is a much less manicured city, it’s a love-it-or-hate-it place (we love it). I’d argue that it has the best food of the 3 options, but those are fighting words and many would disagree. The day trips are equally stunning but very different. If you or your family has an interest in ancient ruins, Pompeii and Herculaneum are unmatched. Visiting the Amalfi Coast or nearby islands is also doable, but it’s a trek if you’re staying in the city center. Keep in mind that there’s no train service to the Amalfi Coast proper, you will need a bus, car, or ferry to get beyond Sorrento.

Lisbon is delightful but honestly, our favorite parts of Portugal lie outside the city. Porto, in the north, has a much more regal feel while Lisbon is fairly spread out. The Duoro Valley (also in the north) is magnificent for port tastings and views, Sintra’s palaces located just outside of Lisbon are must-sees, and if you want to head to the south, the Algarve is incredibly striking.

Logistically speaking, I’d make sure you have at least 2-3 days in Portugal at the end of your trip before flying out, regardless. With 3 full days, you can spend 2 in Lisbon and take one day trip (probably to Sintra but the coastal town of Cascais is also easy and lovely).

If you have time to do that and add another stop for 3 full days, I would check detailed flight and train schedules and let that guide you–the logistics alone may make the choice for you.

That got a bit long, but I hope it helps! 🙂

Thanks a lot for the precious information!

Hi Kate! I know you said you are not a travel agent but are open to a few itinerary questions! We have recently done a European Cruise which hit almost all of Italy! We are wanting to go back independently. I am highly interested in Ireland, but would also like to see Paris. My husband is interested in Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland. With a 14 day trip wanted, what areas do you think we should do (based on best places to see, with allotted time?)

& Austria! 🙂

That is a lot of very different places, but you’ll definitely be able to pull together a great trip! I’d recommend narrowing it down to around 3 destinations, 4 if you’re comfortable moving quite fast and two of them are close together.

Ireland is definitely the odd one out geographically, but if you use two one-way tickets instead of flying in and out of the same airport, it can work (it’s what we did on our first multi-country Europe trip many years ago).

Since you’ll likely have 1-2 flights in this itinerary regardless, which destinations you pick can come down to a combination of your absolute favorites and what makes logistical sense. Paris is a very popular place to fly in and out of, so it’ll likely be easy to work in.

I’m not sure which parts of Germany your husband is interested in, but parts of western Germany have simple train access to The Netherlands and/or France.

As far as what places I’d personally visit, Ireland and Paris are two of my favorite places on the planet, so I’m biased! Switzerland’s mountain landscapes are truly beyond belief, so if you’re looking for nature (and aren’t concerned about the budget), it’s a winner.

Germany is also gorgeous, both its nature and many of its cities, though it’s quite big and varied–with a big trip like this, you’ll want to choose one small corner of it (Bavaria is a popular first stop, but you can also look at places along the Rhine, which makes more sense if you’re hoping to visit Paris or The Netherlands by train before or after).

The only part of The Netherlands we’ve had a chance to visit so far is Amsterdam, which is visually stunning but will be extremely crowded–probably more so than anywhere else you’ve listed, as there’s less room to spread out there than in, say, Paris.

When it comes to your itinerary, I’d recommend that each of you pick one place that is your absolute first choice, plan on a trip to those, and then fill in the 3rd and possible 4th destination based on what makes logistical sense as far as what planes/trains/buses are available to the spots on your shortlist.

Also, if you do need to book high-speed train tickets, book them ASAP, as prices increase as your trip gets closer.

What a wonderful blog, just when I feel like I’ve read them all I find another really helpful article. Heading to Europe for 1 month in May. Keen on Spain, definitely Italy, and probably 2 days in London and Paris respectively (arrival and departure). Feel like we have space for one more place and can’t figure out which is the better option (Portugal, Croatia or Greece) for potentially 5 days? Any recommendations?

Thank you for sharing all your wonderful insights.

That’s tough, because all 3 are fantastic but very different!

I’d probably recommend (if I had to choose), Greece for beaches/swimming and small towns, Portugal for cities, and Croatia for a combination of all. But we adore each and every one of them, so hard to go wrong!

Portugal fits nicely into your Spain section geographically, so there is that to consider.

Hi, Kate! Super love your blog. I just booked a trip to Europe for August, was thinking of going to France, Spain, and Italy in 2 weeks. Or should I cut it down to 2 countries? Hope to hear from you!

Less relevant than the countries are the destinations within them–I wouldn’t go more than 4 places in 2 weeks, max.

So if you’re hitting up Paris, Barcelona, and Rome, for example, your plan is fine. If you want to go to 2-3 places within each country, it’s time to cut it down. 🙂

HI! Thanks for the fantastic blog! My husband and I are planning our first trip to Europe from Canada and are feeling quite overwhelmed by all the choices! His family is from Holland, so we are spending one week touring with them for the first week of May, and then will stay an additional 2 weeks after that. What would you recommend? We are not keen on France but everything else looks so great, and it was good to read that you don’t recommend trying to fit everything else in, which is what we might otherwise be trying to do. Any suggestions for the 2 weeks after Holland?

Hi Michele,

That’s so exciting! You guys are going to have an amazing time.

Without knowing your tastes or the season you’re traveling, the sky is truly the limit when planning your itinerary! Anywhere that sounds exciting to you is going to be worth it. With 2 weeks, I’d opt for 1-2 countries and no more than 4 base destinations (3 would be even better).

I started trying to make a list of some of our favorite countries in Europe for you, but just backspaced the sentence because I was ending up just listing every country, LOL. But Italy is one of our special favorites that we would recommend to just about anyone!

We will be in Holland for the first week of May so we could do the other two weeks either before or after that (or split one before and one after). The suggestion to cut down to less rather than more is helpful – it’s our first time to Europe and everything looks like something we should see! We are 50 and really like most things – some scenery, some castles, etc. Do you think it would be do-able to do Germany and Italy on top of Holland? Any specifics on what you love in Italy? I am really NOT a crowd person, so we’re really going to try and avoid huge crowds or I’ll lose my mind 😉

A week in Germany followed by a week in Italy is definitely doable!

Personally I’d opt for either southwest Germany (Black Forest, Heidelberg, Burg Eltz) or Bavaria.

We love virtually all of Italy, but if you want something somewhat more offbeat that’s in the top half of the country (for geography reasons), I’d recommend looking into Emilia-Romagna.

It’s the region east of Tuscany, and has similar appeal with far fewer tourists. It’s also gorgeous and a culinary dream–Emilia-Romagna is the origin of many iconic foods like parmigiano-reggiano and traditional balsamic vinegar.

A few destinations in the region to poke into as you research: Bologna, Parma, Ravenna, Ferrara, Modena. The micronationa of San Marino is also accessible from there!

Kate-what a remarkably comprehensive, detailed and resourceful blog! I love the considerations offered from different perspectives. My family of 4 (including 2 kids ages 10 and 6) will be traveling to Paris for the second half of August for 2 weeks to visit family. We have already been to Paris a few times so this time around, I would like us to explore more of Europe for some of the time, ideally via trains. I am thinking of staying in Air B&B’s as we have been enjoying that accommodation when we travel locally within the US but would love your perspective on this (vs hotels) considering the cultural and language differences in certain destinations as well as any recommendations for either you may have. Based on some research, some destinations I came cross purely based on travel distance via train from Paris are Switzerland (3 hrs), Barcelona (6.5 hours! would probably have to be an overnight train for the kids), London (2 hrs, have family we can see), and Greece (2 hours), Belgium (1.5 hrs, also some family we can see). My goal is to show my kids/family different cultures, ways of living and experience foods, interesting architecture, beautiful cafe’s etc. Also curios if any of these can be “day trips”. I do not have specific destinations yet to see at these locations and would love your input. From your article, it sounds like limiting to 2 destinations maybe best (outside of Paris) and your thoughts may help me narrow down where to focus. Thanks so much and look forward to reading your insights on this.

So glad you found it helpful, Tez! Sounds like you guys have an amazing trip planned.

I’m sure you already know this, but August is the height of peak season for European travelers visiting the coast and mountains, so some destinations will be quite crowded and expensive (book your hotels and train tickets ASAP, especially in a group of four).

I’m assuming Greece is a typo, so I’ll pass over that one–pretty sure it’s much further than 2 hours even by plane. 🙂

Luckily Paris is a huge train hub for getting across Europe, so you have plenty of options! Most of them will take longer than it looks on the map once you navigate connections, train times, etc. We highly recommend using Omio to search exact routes and dates, and keep in mind tickets will increase in price as you get closer. With kids, you’ll probably want to search by the fastest available routes.

London, Belgium, and Switzerland all jump out at me from your list–simple to access and incredible. The Jungfrau region in Switzerland is pure paradise, though a bit further away.

You may also want to look into Amsterdam, it’s only 3.5 hours from Paris by train.

With the right schedule, you can get as far as Venice in a day from Paris (we’ve done this), so Italy is an option for you as well, as is Germany.

Essentially, the more you stick to major cities, the easier it will be to navigate solely by train. Smaller towns and cities are often connected, but you’ll virtually always need to pass back through the main city of a region to make your way back to Paris.

You may want to take a look at this post as well, we talk a lot more about train travel here: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/travel-europe-by-train/

Hi Kate Love your blog, lots of useful information. My husband and I are planning a 10 day trip to Europe end of April to early May. At the moment we are looking at flying from the US RT to Paris. We’re thinking of possibly going to Amsterdam and Belgium as well. this will be our second trip to Paris. We are open to other suggestions. Do you have any other recommendations?

Happy to be able to help, Daisy!

Paris + Amsterdam + Belgium is an excellent itinerary and doable in 10 days. It’s actually a route we recommend ourselves. We have posts on all those places, but here are our suggestions on spending 3 days in Belgium to give you an idea of what you can cover in a short time frame: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/3-days-in-belgium-itinerary/

Paris is extremely well-connected by rail (you can be in Venice in 9 hours or Munich in under 6, for example), so as far as ideas for other destinations go, the sky is the limit!

If you choose to extend your original itinerary, a few additional places that you might consider along that route are Strasbourg/Alsace, Heidelberg, and Cologne.

Thank you for your blog.. We are travelling to Europe for 14 days the end of May. Flying Calgary to Dublin, doing a couple days at the Isle of Man races then hopefully, London, Paris, Rome. Your blog shares what to pack for clothing in Summer, Fall and Winter, what would you recommend for spring? We are trying to decide if we take the trains or flights from London, Paris and Rome. We aren’t planning any beach time. Also, what do you recommend for luggage? I’m leaning towards a rolly carryon but have every size hard shell case and multiple back country camping packs.

So happy you find it helpful!

Funny you mention spring packing ideas–I’m actually working on a post for that right now. It will hopefully be up next week. But off the top of my head, you’ll definitely want a travel umbrella and to pack in layers. The end of May is a beautiful time to be in much of Europe but the weather could be unpredictable–you may want sundresses on some days and light jackets on some evenings!

As far as luggage, either is completely fine. There are advantages to both backpacks and suitcases, but as long as you’re comfortable carrying your bag up and down staircases, carrying (or rolling) it down the street for 10+ minutes, and loading it into and out of trains and/or cars, you’re good.

As far as trains vs planes–London to Paris can definitely be a train, but do a time and cost-benefit analysis between that and a plane (depending on the dates, your travel style, etc, you may choose either). Paris to Rome is better done as a flight!

Thank you very much for sharing your wisdom. We are really excited.

Hi Kate, Thank you so very much. You have provided an AMAZING amount of helpful information. Can you pretty please help me with the best location to travel to 1st, 2nd, 3rd & 4th and the best way to get to the locations? (We will NOT be doing any driving).I’m a 55 years old woman. I live in USA. I’m planning the 1st International trip for me and my husband for either the 1st or 2nd week of September 2023. My biggest challenge is knowing where to start and end the trip, based on logistically traveling to the different destinations, as well as, the best way to get to each destination.Here are the the things I have planned. I know you mentioned you’ve never been to London but i’m hoping you can assist based on me providing the area I want to be in. *LONDON-7 NIGHTS I’m a theatre/adrenaline junkie person so Theatreland West End of London near (North of the River Thames. 3-Plays (evening events) 2-Hour Sherlock Holmes museum (near West End) 1-Hour Ghost Bus tour (nearest tube stations are Embankment and Charing Cross) 4-Hours-day walking tasting tour (near London Bridge Station) 1-day Harry Potter Studio Tour (Leavesden London) 2 -Nights Theme park “Alton Towers” located Alton, Staffordshire near Manchester and Birmingham. (stay onsite at the parks resort)*PARIS-3 NIGHTS Moulin Rouge (BD de Clichy area) L’ATELIER DES LUMINERES -DIGITAL ART MUSEUM I would like to visit just one of the haunted castles in Paris (depending on recommendation) Château de Puymartin Château de Brissac Château Lagorce Château de Chambord Château de Versailles* GERMANY 3 NIGHTS-Phantasialand Theme park (located Bruhl Germany) Stay onsite at the parks resortThank you for any advice or suggestions you can provide.

Hi Melvina,

I definitely can’t speak to getting around London in detail, though a combination of the tube and buses will likely be doable! You can add cabs as needed as well.

In Paris, the metro is so dense you should have no issue getting around. Assuming you are planning to do the usual Paris sights (Eiffel Tower, Louvre, etc), our Paris itinerary might be able to help you out (and has hotel recommendations): https://www.ourescapeclause.com/3-days-in-paris-itinerary/

For the chateaus, Versailles is by far the closest to Paris and you can get there by RER train. Château de Chambord in the Loire Valley is doable via an organized day trip like this: https://www.getyourguide.com/paris-l16/loire-valley-castles-wines-day-trip-from-paris-t70389/?partner_id=1OI4D21&utm_medium=online_publisher&placement=content-middle

The others are way too far from Paris for day trips, so I’d focus on Versailles and/or Chambord this time.

Hope you have a wonderful time! 🙂

Thank you so very much.

Hi, thank you for this comprehensive post! We are planning a trip this summer and will be going to Paris, Rome, Florence and Amsterdam. My question is about changing money. We were in Iceland last year and used Apple Pay or credit card everywhere, never needed cash and didn’t get any. Is that possible in either France, Italy or Netherlands? Should I plan on getting cash for taxis, tips, etc?

Happy to help!

I’d definitely recommend having some cash with you as you travel, especially for small purchases like coffee, gelato, etc. Most hotels in Italy will require the city’s tourist tax in cash, too. Some taxis and tips will be best done in cash as well, and occasionally very small, offbeat tourist attractions.

While cash-only restaurants definitely aren’t the norm in any of those cities, they’re not unheard of, either.

Overall, I’d say you’re most likely to avoid cash entirely in Amsterdam and most likely to use some of it in Rome and Florence, but that’s not a hard and fast rule by any means (I used some cash on my trip to the Netherlands last spring, for example).

We find that the easiest way to get cash, by far, is to withdraw Euros from any bank’s ATM once you’re already in Europe (avoid Euronet–use an ATM branded by an actual bank). Luckily, since all the places you’re visiting use the Euro, you won’t need to worry about changing currency beyond that. 🙂

Hi Kate, thank you for this great, and helpful post! We’re are planning a trip to Europe for the first time in September for next year in 2024. My plan is to visit Spain, Italy and I’m still undecided on the third country to visit. What country would you suggest or advised that we can visit that has beautiful scenery, mountains, lakes, etc. We like the city, but we also want something where we can hike out in nature like Iceland maybe, Switzerland. Any tips on that? Also, is it cheaper to stay in hotels, Airbnb’s? Thank you!

Spain and Italy–two of our favorites! You guys are going to have a great time. 🙂

The hardest part about picking a third country with your criteria will be narrowing it down between many excellent choices–you really can’t go wrong.

Switzerland is absolutely spectacular, if the Alps are what you’re looking for, it’s iconic and hard to beat in every category except the price tag.

Germany and Austria also offer beautiful mountains and lakes and are a more budget-friendly than Switzerland.

The French Alps are also wonderful–towns like Chamonix and Annecy offer plenty of mountains, lakes, etc.

And, for a a wild card, you don’t necessarily need a third country at all: the Dolomites in Italy have everything you’re looking for.

Any of those that appeal to you and fit your budget will be a great addition to your trip. They’re well-connected to Italy and each other by train, the travel times aren’t too far, and they’re all phenomenal places to visit.

One small thing to keep in mind if you’re planning to travel by train a bunch is that Spain isn’t very well connected to the rest of the places you’re considering by rail–you may want to consider flying in and out of there.

Iceland is definitely far out of the way, but assuming you’re traveling to and from North America, look into the Icelandair stopover program if you want to add it on! I will say that while it does offer mountains, lakes, and beautiful scenery, it’s a very different vibe than Switzerland or any of the surrounding Alpine countries, so take a close look at the specific destinations and see if it’s what you’re looking for. It’s a stunning place, just very different than the others. Here’s one of our Iceland posts if you want to get a feel for it: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/10-day-iceland-ring-road-itinerary/

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20 one-week europe trip itinerary ideas.

Wondering where to spend one week in Europe? These 20 ideas for your Europe trip will help you decide how to maximize your time.

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How to Choose the Best One Week Itinerary for a Europe Trip: 20 Europe Itinerary Ideas

If you’re like most people and getting time off work or kids out of school is challenging, you may only be able to manage one week of vacation. Europe is a great destination to go for one week, simply because of the cultural diversity in such a small geographic area.

The small size, proximity, and ease of transportation between many of the countries in Europe make it a good choice for a culturally rich one week holiday. If you’ve only got one week in Europe, and really want to maximize your time, but you’re wondering where to go in Europe, here are 20 perfect one-week Europe travel itineraries.

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• Before You go to Europe

Europe is an amazing destination, especially if you pick any of these awesome itineraries, but before leaving there are a few things you should consider when planning your Europe trip:

• KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: Before you go to Europe, be sure you follow my 50 travel tips for Europe. You can find those here. 

And the winter months are generally cold in most European countries, especially in the north.That doesn’t mean you should avoid those times, it just depends on your tolerance for crowds and your preference in weather.

• WHAT TO PACK FOR EUROPE: What you pack for Europe will highly depend on what time of year you go and where you decide to go. This  packing guide for Europe will ensure you have the essentials.
• GETTING AROUND: Getting around Europe can be a little daunting, but if you do some research before you go, you’ll be just fine. Transportation in every country in Europe is a little different. I’ve linked many of my articles with helpful advice below like   How to Survive Train Travel in Italy   and   Driving in Scotland . Some itineraries will require you to go by train, car, plane or boat. Travel around Europe doesn’t have to be scary if you learn what to do ahead of time.

If you’re renting a car, there are two companies we prefer to use: Rental Cars and Expedia Cars. We have had no issues with them and have been able to find the best prices available.

What to do in Europe for One Week: 20 European Vacation Ideas for Your Europe Trip

These are my best one week vacations in Europe. Taking a multi city European vacation can be a great way to experience several different cultures on one continent. I know that one week in Europe isn’t a lot of time, so I’ve picked cities that are either close in proximity or a quick and cheap flight between each other.

I’ve also tried to choose each Europe travel itinerary with a mix of classic sites and unique destinations. There are so many cool places to visit in Europe that are still undiscovered. Hopefully, some of these locations will be new to you and you’ll be able to discover a new European favorite!

Here's a Short Cut

1 | Amalfi Coast + Rome

2 | paris + london, 3 | ireland + iceland, 4 | heidelberg, germany + strasbourg, france, 5 | colmar, france + basel, switzerland, 6 | interlaken + lucerne, switzerland, 7 | lake como, italy + zermatt, switzerland, 8 | paris + normandy, 9 | iceland and the scottish highlands, 10 | venice and lake como, 11 | the ionian islands, greece, 12 | ireland + northern ireland, 13 | edinburgh + scottish highlands, 14 | colmar + strasbourg, 15 | loire valley + paris, 16 | london + cotswolds, 17 | cinque terre + florence, 18 | prague + vienna, 19 | budapest + bratislava, 20 | lucca + sardinia, 21 | lisbon + algarve, 22 | vienna + hallstatt + salzburg , 23 | croatia + montenegro, 24 | budapest + bratislava + vienna, practical tips for booking your trip.

This is one of my very favorite European vacation destinations. There are hundreds of choices for stunning history and scenery when you visit Italy, but this Amalfi Coast and Rome itinerary gives you the best of both worlds. Rome is one of the top places to visit in Europe and offers history around every corner…literally, while on the Amalfi Coast you will be overwhelmed by breathtaking ocean views.

Spend several days in Rome, then head south to the Amalfi Coast via Naples and spend a few more relaxing on the beach and driving the coast. It’s one of the best European beach vacations you can take! Amalfi is also one of the most popular Europe vacation spots during the month of August, so you may want to take that into consideration when planning your trip.

Check out these other 5 amazing itineraries for Italy.  Italy is one of the best countries to visit in Europe due to its size and variety of landscapes, cultures, and attractions.

GETTING THERE: Fly into Rome

GETTING BETWEEN CITIES: Getting from Rome to Amalfi is easy. Take the train from Rome to Naples, from there take the bus to Sorrento. There are many tour buses that travel along the coast, or you can rent a car and do the driving yourself.

WHERE TO STAY Rome | Amalfi RESOURCES How to Spend One Day in Rome Family Guide to Rome How to Spend 2 Days in Naples How to Survive Train Travel in Italy The Best Places to Visit in Italy How to Spend 10 Days in Italy Tips for Renting a Car in Europe i Heart Italy

If you’re looking for a European vacation with a lot of history and class, this is it! I can’t even count the number of times that I have done the Paris/London combo. I’ve done it with kids, as a couple, as a girls’ trip, and as a field trip. No joke! And every time I go, it’s like completely different cities. You can follow completely different options for London and Paris itineraries and have an amazing time no matter what you choose. In my opinion, these are two of the best cities to visit in Europe as they offer a huge amount of culture, food, and entertainment bang for your buck!

When I plan our family trip to Europe each year, I make sure to always include both Paris and London. These are two of my favorite places in all of Europe. They are popular for good reason. Both Paris and London are so vast and diverse that you can have a new experience each time you visit. The best part about visiting these two cities is that they are very easy to travel between with the help of the Eurostar. It’s a quick journey from the heart of one city to the next that requires no airports, no flying, and no hassle. Note: You will need a   passport or visa   to travel between England and France and you will need to go through customs before boarding the Eurostar.

I’ve created an easy-to-use day-by-day itinerary for Paris and London so that you can show up and enjoy your trip. 

GETTING THERE: Fly into London or Paris GETTING BETWEEN CITIES: Take the Eurostar

WHERE TO STAY Paris | London

RESOURCES Paris Walking Guide Paris with Kids Foods You Must Try in Paris Paris Neighborhood Guide How to Use the Paris Bike System London Travel Guide Perfect London Itinerary London with Kids Christmas in London Paddington’s Guide to London How to Use the Paris Bike System

If you’re looking for a European vacation with wild nature and rural beauty, this option is a winner. While both of these spectacular islands really deserve their own week (or weeks really), a trip combining the two is possible, thanks to affordable flights between Iceland and Ireland. A good route would be Reykjavik and the Golden Circle, combined with the west of Ireland including Killarney, the Ring of Kerry, and the Cliffs of Moher. These countries are some of the best places to go in Europe if you love majestic natural beauty.

GETTING THERE:  Fly into Iceland as its one of the cheapest ways to get to Europe. GETTING BETWEN COUNTRIES:  From Iceland , take a quick flight to Ireland. Dublin , Belfast , Cork, or Shannon Airports are usually where you’ll find the best deals.

WHERE TO STAY Ireland | Iceland

RESOURCES Iceland on a Budget Bucket List Things to do in Iceland Iconic Things to do in Dublin Day Trips from Dublin What to do in Killarney Perfect Ireland Itinerary Ireland with Kids Ireland Packing List

This one-week European itinerary includes two of my favorite cities in Europe! Heidelberg, Germany, known for its ancient castle and walkable downtown is a perfect companion to Strasbourg, France only an hour and a half away, in the Alsace region of France, known for its impressive cathedral and half-timber houses. These towns are particularly spectacular during the Christmas season and some of the best places to spend Christmas in Europe. This will be the best Europe itinerary for those looking to spend time in provincial looking towns!

GETTING THERE:  Fly into Frankfurt, Germany GETTING BETWEEN COUNTRIES:  Drive for 1.5 hours or take the train for 1.5 hours.

WHERE TO STAY Heidelberg | Strasbourg

RESOURCES Best European Christmas Markets European Christmas Market Treats What to do in Strasbourg What to do in Heidelberg, Germany What to do in Strasbourg, France

If you want to spend your Europen vacation wandering charming streets and feeling like you’re in a fairytale, this is it. Basel, Switzerland holds a special place in my heart and is often an overlooked town. Only a quick 45-minute train ride from the popular and iconic Colmar, France, Basel offers a unique culture that only a town on the border of three countries can. Basel is especially fun during Herbstmesse, the local Autumn Fair when the city literally turns into a fair! Combine these two beautiful cities for a one-of-a-kind holiday.

GETTING THERE: Fly into Basel or Zurich GETTING BETWEEN CITIES:  Drive 45 minutes or Train 30 minutes

WHERE TO STAY Colmar |  Basel

RESOURCES What to do in Basel Guide to Colmar, France

No European vacation list would be complete without including the unimaginable beauty of the Swiss Alps. Switzerland is a wonderland of natural beauty for the outdoor enthusiast or even anyone who has a remote interest in pretty scenery! It’s one of the best countries in Europe for those who love outdoor activity and natural beauty. It’s just jaw-droppingly gorgeous.

For such a small country, there is so much to see and with two of Switzerland most breathtaking areas just a few hours from each other, it’s worth visiting both of them. These areas offer pristine lakes, ancient gorges, colossal mountains, and a vast array of cultural activities.

GETTING THERE: Fly into Zurich, Switzerland GETTING BETWEEN CITIES: Train to Lucerne, Train to Interlaken

WHERE TO STAY Interlaken | Lucerne

RESOURCES Switzerland Itinerary Swiss Food Guide Switzerland Packing List 24 Hours in Zurich What to do in Interlaken What to do in Lucerne

If you’d like your Europe trip to have a good mix of beach and mountain time, this is the perfect combination. Lake Como is probably one of my top favorite places on the planet. It is totally magical and peaceful, and I’ve written about it multiple times and helped friends and family plan trips there. Don’t skip Lake Como on your next trip to Italy. One of my favorite parts of Lake Como is its proximity to the Swiss border. You can actually hike over the borer and into Switzerland! But if you’d rather not hike, hop in the car and take a trip to Zermatt, Switzerland, home of the famous towering mountain, Matterhorn.

GETTING THERE: Fly into Milan, Italy GETTING BETWEEN CITIES: Drive 3 hours to Zermatt or take a 4 hour Train ride from Milan

WHERE TO STAY Lake Como | Zermatt

RESOURCES Guide to Lake Como Boating Lake Como Guide to Zermatt Best Places to Visit in Italy How to Spend 10 Days in Italy i Heart Italy

This is a European vacation full of charm, but also a healthy dose of history and reality. A Paris-Normandy itinerary of Europe combines all the glamor and romance of the city of light with the charm, history, and beauty of Northern France. Spend several days in Paris, taking several day trips, including the impressive floating Mont Saint Michel. This area is one of the best places to visit in Europe for history lovers.

GETTING THERE: Fly into Paris GETTING BETWEEN CITIES: Drive 3 hours

WHERE TO STAY Paris | Normandy

RESOURCES Paris Itinerary Paris Walking Guide Paris with Kids Foods You Must Try in Paris Paris Neighbgorhood Guide Guide to Normandy Guide to Visiting Mont Saint Michel France with Kids

Two naturally and culturally beautiful countries are just a short and cheap flight apart and a great combination for a one-week European itinerary, although both countries could take weeks to explore on their own.  Spend a few days in Iceland, then take a cheap hopper flight and explore the mystical highlands of Scotland.

GETTING THERE: Fly into Reykjavik GETTING BETWEEN COUNTRIES: Fly into Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, or Aberdeen

WHERE TO STAY Iceland | Scotland

RESOURCES Iceland on a Budget Scotland Itinerary What to do in Inverness What to do on the Isle of Skye Scotland Packing List

Some of my favorite Italian destinations, Venice and Lake Como, both built on water, are ideal locations for aquatic enthusiasts. Taking a ride on a gondola in Venice is one of the best things to do in Europe! Take the Vaporetto (water bus) in Venice, then take a short drive or train ride to Lake Como and enjoy boating and relaxing on the beach in one of the adorable villages lining the lake.

GETTING THERE: Fly into Venice or Milan GETTING BETWEEN CITIES: 3.5 hours by car or 10 hours by train

WHERE TO STAY Venice | Lake Como

RESOURCES Guide to Lake Como Boating Lake Como Surviving Train Travel in Italy Guide to Venice Best Places to Visit in Italy How to Spend 10 Days in Italy i Heart Italy

If you’re interested in cheap Europe trips, the gorgeous Ionian islands of Greece are one of the best-kept secrets in Europe. Naturally and culturally diverse, affordable, and downright beautiful, Kefalonia and Corfu make great choices for one week in Europe.

Explore ancient ruins, relax on pristine beaches with locals, and dine, affordably, like a Greek god. If you’re travelling Europe on a budget, this is a great option and Greece is one of the best places to visit in Europe in summer if you’re looking for gorgeous beaches at affordable prices.

GETTING THERE: Fly into Kefalonia from London on Ryanair GETTING BETWEEN ISLANDS: Take a ferry between the Ionian Islands from Greek Ferries

WHERE TO STAY Kefalonia | Corfu

RESOURCES Guide to Kefalonia Greece The Ionian Islands The Best Beaches on Corfu What to Wear in Greece Guide to Athens

Two countries on one island? Yep! Take a visit to Ireland AND Northern Ireland. Two countries that are very similar, but also very different. Explore the entire island with this perfect itinerary.

GETTING THERE: Fly into Dublin or any airport in Ireland GETTING BETWEEN COUNTRIES: Rent a Car. Driving in Ireland can be tricky and slow, but worth the views and the adventure.

WHERE TO STAY Ireland | Northern Ireland

RESOURCES The Best Places to Visit in Ireland Perfect Ireland Itinerary Ireland with Kids What to do in Killarney Scotland and Ireland Itinerary Ireland Packing List

Scotland is one country that should really be given an entire week. You could definitely say that about any destination, but for a relatively small country, but it has so much to offer that you could spend years here and not see it all.

For one week in Scotland, I recommend visiting Edinburgh and the Scottish Highlands, including the Isle of Skye. Read here for an entire Scotland Itinerary, here for Edinburgh , here for Inverness and the Highlands , and here for the Isle of Skye.

GETTING THERE:  Flying into Edinburgh is usually the cheapest option. GETTING BETWEN AREAS:  It’s best to rent a car or hire a driver or tour company. Be sure to read my guide to driving in Scotland.  

WHERE TO STAY Ediburgh | Inverness | Isle of Skye

RESOURCES Perfect Scotland Itinerary What to do in Edinburgh What to do in Inverness What to do on the Isle of Skye Scotland Packing List

What could be more charming than a week spent in these “poor provincial towns.” Ok, so they’re definitely not poor or provincial, but you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into Belle’s hometown from Beauty and the Beast .

The ancient half-timber homes built along scenic rivers provide a feast for the eyes, while the patisseries, boulangeries, shops, and restaurants provide a feast for the tongue. Split your time between these two idyllic towns and enjoy a peaceful trip back in time.

If you visit Colmar or Strasbourg during Christmas, these towns will be even more magical! Strasbourg is known as “The Capital of Christmas” and both towns have incredible Christmas markets and decorations!

GETTING THERE:  Fly into Zurich GETTING BETWEEN COUNTRIES:  30 minutes by train or 1 hour by car

WHERE TO STAY Colmar | Strasbourg

RESOURCES 24 Hours in Zurich Guide to Colmar Guide to Strasbourg The Most Magical European Christmas Markets Must-Have European Christmas Market Treats 

Divide your time between the ancient and modern city of light and the historic Loire Valley , home to magnificent palaces, stunning gardens, and green pastures. This one-week itinerary is the perfect balance between city and country life and will provide you with a mix of excitement, peace, and romance. It can be hard to squeeze everything you want into one week European itineraries, but this is a must!

Be sure to map out the castles and palaces you want to see along the way. Our favorite is Chenonceau ! Don’t miss it!

GETTING THERE: Fly into Paris GETTING AROUND:  Rent a car and drive two hours to the Loire Valley

WHERE TO STAY Loire Valley | Paris

RESOURCES Walking Guide to Paris Paris with Kids Day Trips from Paris Foods You Must Try in Paris Guide to the Loire Valley 15 Affordable Castles You Can Stay In

This London and Cotswolds Itinerary provides the best of both British worlds, encompassing both the hustle and bustle of one of the world’s oldest and largest cities and the peace and tranquility of the quaint cottage speckled Cotswolds.

As much as I love London (it’s my favorite city), I do get tired of the crowds and the constant noise. It is so refreshing to get into the countryside and have a change of scenery during your time in London. The Cotswolds are a fairytale-like dream trip. Be sure to grab cream tea every chance you get!

GETTING THERE: Fly into one of three London Airports GETTING AROUND: Rent a car and explore the whole Cotswolds area

WHERE TO STAY London | Cotswolds

RESOURCES London Travel Guide Complete Guide to London Perfect London Itinerary London with Kids Paddington’s Guide to London Christmas in London Guide to the Cotswolds

I call this itinerary the best of Northern Italy. Italy is huge and has so much to offer geographically and culturally, but one of my favorite parts of Italy is the train system. The trains in Italy allow for easy access to most major sites, but it can be slightly confusing, so be sure to read this guide to train travel in Italy before you go. Getting between Florence and Cinque Terre is simple with the right knowledge.

The great thing about this itinerary is that you will get to see a big city full of culture, history, and art, and also spend time swimming at the beach and on a boat soaking up rays in in the Liguerian Sea. Read here for Florence, here for Cinque Terre, here for Trains in Italy.

GETTING THERE: Fly into Florence GETTING BETWEEN CITIES: Two hours by train

WHERE TO STAY Cinque Terre | Florence

RESOURCES Guide to Cinque Terre Guide to Florence How to Survive Train Travel in Italy Best Places to Visit in Italy How to Spend 10 Days in Italy

I think Prague and Vienna might be some of the most underrated cities in Europe, and they are worth dedicating an entire week to. Stunning architecture, delicious cuisine, and cultural activities abound in these cities that are just a few hours apart.

GETTING THERE: Fly into Vienna or Prague GETTING BETWEEN CITIES: 3-hour drive or 4-hour train ride

WHERE TO STAY Prague | Vienna

RESOURCES One Day in Prague What to do in Vienna

If you’re looking for cheap European vacations, the farther east you go, the cheaper it generally gets. These are two cities that had never really been on my bucket list, and to be honest, I had never even heard of Bratislava, which is in Slovakia by the way! Both cities are charming and culturally rich. They are especially festive and beautiful around Christmas time.

Bratislava is on the way between Budapest and Vienna (you can even cycle between Budapest and Vienna ) and Budapest and Prague, so if you’re thinking of doing a combination of any of those cities, it’s a great stop.

GETTING THERE: Fly into Budapest GETTING BETWEEN CITIES: 2 hours by car, 2.5 hours by train

WHERE TO STAY Budapest | Bratislava

RESOURCES What to do in Budapest European Christmas Markets What to do in Bratislava

These incredible destinations in Italy are not well known, but that is part of the appeal. I would say they are a good option for a cheaper and less crowded alternative to the  Florence and Cinque Terre itinerary.

Lucca is a walled city in Tuscany offering stunning architecture and culture with great family fun activities such as riding bikes along the top of the medieval wall around the city. Sardinia is a heavenly island, just a ferry ride away full of breathtaking beaches, delicious food, and friendly locals. Known as one of the five blue zones in the world- places in the world where people live longer and healthier than anywhere else on earth-Sardinia will make you feel younger and more alive just by visiting.

GETTING THERE: Fly into Rome or Florence GETTING BETWEEN DESTINATIONS: Take a Ferry from Civitavecchia to Olbia

WHERE TO STAY Lucca | Sardinia

RESOURCES One Day in Rome What to do in Lucca Sardinia Best Places to Visit in Italy How to Spend 10 Days in Italy What to Wear in Italy

Portugal is a beautiful country full of diverse landscapes, amazing beaches, and cultural city centers. Lisbon is a stunning city and the Algarve region in the south of Portugal offers sunny beaches with world-famous surfing. There are some really cheap flights to Lisbon from the US right now and you can either drive, train, bus, or fly to the Algarve easily. As a southern European country, Portugal is a great choice for a winter destination. We were there last January and could still get in the water. There are many towns to choose from in the Algarve and they are all equally unique and beautiful. 

GETTING THERE: Fly into Lisbon GETTING BETWEEN DESTINATIONS: Take a plane, car, or bus to the Algarve.

The Perfect Portugal Itinerary

This one week in Europe spent in Austria is a dream. Combining the culture of Vienna and Salzburg with the picturesque feel of Hallstatt, it’s sure to satisfy any traveler. In my opinion, this is a great winter destination if you don’t mind the cold. Vienna and Salzburg have several amazing Christmas markets and Hallstatt is simply a dream to see in the snow! 

GETTING THERE: Fly into Vienna GETTING BETWEEN DESTINATIONS: Take a train to Salzburg (2.5 hours). A great way to see Hallstatt is to take a day trip from Salzburg.

Hallstatt Day Trip

European Christmas Markets

Christmas Market Treats

If you’re into coastal towns, walled cities, and breathtaking scenery, this combination is for you. The Dalmation Coast is absolutely stunning. The bordering country of Montenegro is really the hidden gem of Europe, offering the same draw as Croatia, but with far fewer tourists. I recommend going during shoulder season (April-May or September-October) to be able to enjoy warmer weather with fewer crowds. 

GETTING THERE: Fly into Dubrovnik, Croatia  GETTING BETWEEN DESTINATIONS:  Take a Day Trip to Montenegro

Two of the most underrated cities in Europe if you ask me, Budapest and Bratislava are both cities that offer an amazing array of culture and also incredible food. If you’re up for the cold weather, these cities all have incredible Christmas markets and stunning decorations around the holidays. These cities are also all connected by rail so you can easily navigate between them. 

GETTING THERE: Fly into Vienna or Budapest GETTING BETWEEN DESTINATIONS: Take the train between each city. Bratislava would be a good day trip from Vienna.

25 | Berlin + Prague

If you love history and architecture, then these two cities will captivate you! Split your time between the two, rent a car and take a road trip between them to enjoy some beautiful scenery. 

GETTING THERE: Fly into either Berlin or Prague, whichever airport is cheaper.  GETTING BETWEEN DESTINATIONS: Rent a car and take a road trip between Berlin and Prague.

Whichever Europe Itinerary you choose, you’re guaranteed to love it. You can definitely see so much of Europe in a week and you really can’t go wrong with any of these choices. Just remember to relax and enjoy and also remember that this probably won’t be the last Europe trip of your lifetime.

Not the Trip You Need?

Not exactly the trip you’re looking for? Don’t worry, I also offer custom trip planning by request for many destinations! Learn more here.

Book Your Flight s and Car Find a budget airlines by using  Skyscanner . This is my favorite way to search for flights because they crawl websites and airlines around the globe, so you always know you’re getting the best deal. Learn more tips for finding the best flight deals here. For cars, I like to use Rental Cars because they have good filters and its easy to search for multiple companies.

Book Your Accommodation My preferred way to stay around the world is VRBO . I find it usually gives you a unique local experience in any destination. If you want to stay in a hotel, use  Booking , as it consistently gives the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels. I use them both all the time.

Always Get Travel Insurance Travel insurance protects you and your family against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s peace of mind in case anything goes wrong. I never travel without it. I’ve been using World Nomads for the last few years and love how easy it is to use. I have also used Allianz . Compare rates to see which is best for the coverage you need.

Looking for ways to save money on travel? Check out my  resource page  for the companies I use for traveling! I share everything I use to save me time and money.

Wanderlust Crew

9 thoughts on “ 20 one-week europe trip itinerary ideas ”.

Hi there, My husband and I will be celebrating our 20th anniversary next March and would love to go somewhere in Europe for a week. I have only been to Italy (over 20 years ago) and he’s never been. I’m a bit overwhelmed by even trying to figure out where to go. Can you help? Thanks! Hannah

Hi Hannah. I can definitely help! I’ve got several Italy Itinerary ideas for Italy here: https://wanderlustcrew.com/10-days-in-italy/ I also do custom trip planning, specifically for Italy, if you’re interested in that, you can find more info here: https://wanderlustcrew.com/custom-travel-planning/ Italy will be so much fun! One of my favorite places on earth! xo Vanessa

Very helpful! Thank you. We are planning a one year stay & this helped with our itinerary tremendously.

Oh that sounds amazing! You’ll see so much!

Great ideas! We hope we’ll be able to travel to Europe again soon!

Thanks so much! Me too! Going as soon as it’s safe!!

Pingback: Backpacking around Italy with kids - Travel Mad Mum tips

Pingback: How to Find the Best Gelato in Italy! | I Heart Italy

Very good these tips I was even thinking about taking a vacation for a few days, thank you

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More From Forbes

Affordable summer vacations 2024: how and where to travel for less.

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Monte Argentario in Tuscany, Italy—one of the cheapest destinations to head this summer?

As Google reveals that one of its most popular travel search trends is currently 'cheap summer vacations', there are lots of ways that travelers can find ideas to travel for less.

This is particularly important as Bloomberg reports that the post-pandemic travel boom, merged with curbs on hotel construction, overtourism and restrictions on Airbnb in many cities, is sending hotel rates sky high, especially in Europe.

It's also clear that travelers might be feeling the pinch. Vacasa, the home rental platform found that while 4th July and Memorial Day will be the big summer travel weekends, its poll suggests that some people have shifted their travel plans or planning behavior to be more budget conscious (81% of respondents), driven significantly by higher cost of living and inflation (74%).

Ways To Find Cheap Summer Vacations

Bloomberg recommends ignoring Instagram feeds for overhyped, over-expensive destinations and instead hitting places under the social radar for cheap summer vacations —in Italy, this might be the picturesque Costiera Cilentana, an hour from the Amalfi coast or the stylish but under-developed peninsula of Monte Argentario, just 90 minutes from Rome's Fiumicino airport.

If Italy still seems like too much on the beaten European track, Romania's travel star has been rising for a while, hot on the heels of the much-beloved (and still relatively cheap) Albania .

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This is a big deal congress suddenly hurtling toward a crucial crypto vote that could blow up the price of bitcoin ethereum and xrp, netflix s best new overlooked action movie is a must watch.

There are also alternatives to the hotel for cheap summer vacations. Bloomberg reports that European hotel rates have increased 50% since 2019, according to market researcher CoStar Group, so maybe a boat would be better value.

Alternatively, HomeExchange, the home swap website, allows members unlimited exchanges for only $220 per year, meaning you can travel relatively cheaply but also visit places that might not be quite so crowded this summer.

The U.K's Telegraph also advocates finding some of the nicest youth hostels or staying in a mountain bothy in Britain —these are remote shelters in some of the most breathtaking hills and woods across the U.K. that are free to use for just an annual subscription of $32 from The Mountain Bothies Association. There are similar refuge schemes across Europe in the most spectacular places—many also run a basic menu for breakfast and dinner.

Change your mode of travel for cheap summer vacations. Though there are cheaper ways to fly (the London to New York route remains one of the most competitive, if you are available to fly at any time) but one of the most inexpensive ways to travel on holiday this summer might be by train.

The Telegraph lists several examples, notably Eurostar tickets if you book a long time in advance (around $50 one-way)—it's sometimes easier to find deals if you book to Brussels and not London to Paris. The 51-hour rail journey from Chicago, Illinois to Emeryville, California can be had for just under $100 if booked in advance.

Inter-railing across Europe can be cost-effective or you can take the train on a 28-hour, 1,300-mile journey from New Delhi to Goa for just $13 (first class is only $67)—and it can cost less than a dollar to travel across parts of the Himalayas.

Change your mode of finance for cheap summer vacations. One final way of limiting the damage is to use multi-trip travel insurance (if you travel often) and definitely go for a bank card that doesn't add on charges for overseas use and find one that charges lower fees when transfering between different exchange rates.

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See Europe as the Europeans do this summer with these pro tips | Cruising Altitude

Americans are heading to Europe for vacation as much as ever these days, and that means the typical tourist spots like Venice, Paris and London are sure to be crowded this year. But, because this is Cruising Altitude, we’ll look at the aviation angle first.

First and foremost: If you’re really determined to go to Europe this summer and haven’t booked yet, stop reading now and get on it. 

“I’ve never seen a year like this … We’re at the point where there’s no more availability,” Brigitte Armand, president of Eurobound , a tour organizer that specializes in European packages, told me. “Book as quickly as possible.” 

How to get around

According to Armand, trains are generally a great way to get from place to place within Europe, but for farther-flung stops, the continent’s network of low-cost airlines offers travelers a reliable alternative.

Learn more: Best travel insurance

“Don’t think of one airline as being your network and entry point within Europe,” Laura Lindsay, public relations director at online booking platform Skyscanner told me.

She said if you’re flying to Europe from the U.S., you may well rely on a large network carrier like British Airways, KLM, or Lufthansa to get across the Atlantic and then book your intra-European flights separately.

“You’re suddenly opening up Europe in a different way if you search for different airports and multiple airlines,” Lindsay said. “It’s pretty straightforward to get around, so don’t feel put off by jumping through a few different countries or trying a few different destinations.” 

Tips for European airlines

According to Lindsay, European low-cost carriers like Ryanair, Easyjet and Wizz Air often have stricter baggage policies like American ULCCs Spirit and Frontier.

“(The) top tip would be always make sure you understand the luggage allowance that is part of your ticket,” she said. “More often than not, don’t book the basic fare without checking.”

It’s also a good idea to be flexible with your airports and dates of travel if you want to get the best deals on those shorter flights.

“You’ll get a number of places that have more than one airport,” Lindsay said, noting that Skyscanner has a tool that allows travelers to search for flights to or from nearby airports when choosing a destination. “Just getting a map out and actually looking at where exactly you want to travel and where the nearby airports are.” 

Armand added that if you take the train instead, you may need to secure a reservation in advance, particularly for some of the more tourist-heavy routes like panoramic trains in Switzerland. 

Last week's Cruising Altitude: There was no Golden Age of flying. We're in it now.

Where to go

If you really want to summer like a European, you should consider places a little more off the radar for most Americans.

“Albania is somewhere that broke through a couple of years ago as somewhere that people recognized as offering a huge value for money,” Lindsay said. “Sarajevo is reporting its busiest April on record for travelers.”

Armand said it can also be a good idea to try different parts of countries that are already popular if you want a more authentic, less crowded experience.

“We recently arranged a whole trip for some clients in the Abruzzo region of Italy,” she said. “The Abruzzo region, it’s on the Adriatic, people don’t know this region, and I think this is the first time ever we put together a package to get to that region.” 

Data from Skyscanner shows that some destinations in Europe are picking up in popularity with travelers on the continent. Here are some trends bubbling up year over year from 2023 to 2024:

◾ Ljubljana, Slovenia, saw a 188% increase in searches from Spanish travelers

◾ Tromso, Norway, saw a 130% increase in interest from Italian holidaymakers

◾ Dusseldorf, Germany, had a 122% spike in interest from Brits

According to Armand, the best last-minute availability seems to be in Eastern Europe, like Bulgaria and Poland.

“There are some good deals there perhaps, even the Czech Republic I’m finding some decent space,” she said.

So go on, get packing.

Zach Wichter is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in New York. You can reach him at [email protected].