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The Ultimate Western Europe Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

A trip to Europe is a great idea for first-time travelers.  This part of the world has a well-developed tourist trail with reliable transportation links, plenty of accommodation choices, and numerous activities and entertainment options to suit a variety of travelers.

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Western Europe offers just enough challenges to keep the trip fun and adventurous without being overwhelming for those traveling for the first time. All it takes is a little bit of research, some planning, and a big sense of adventure to make the most of your first trip to Europe!

Over the last eight years, we’ve visited many of Europe’s major cities, so it’s no surprise that when it comes to the ultimate itinerary for first-time visitors, we have a few recommendations.  Here’s a roundup of our favourite cities that we think are worth putting on your Europe itinerary for your first-time visit .

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Whether you’re flying to Europe from North America or Oceania, London will most likely offer the   cheapest flights  in and out of the region. If this is your first trip to Europe, take advantage of these great deals and  put London top of your itinerary .   London  offers a plethora of activities to satisfy even the pickiest traveler.

Take in the Major Sights

Don’t miss the big attractions, like  Buckingham Palace ,  London Eye,   Piccadilly Circus ,  Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and St Paul’s Cathedral.  The best way to see the sights that interest you is to download a self-guided London walking tour map. This way you can go at your own pace and take as many photos as you like, without feeling pressured to match the pace of a guided tour.

To see as many of these popular attractions as possible, you might want to split your tour into two parts. Buckingham Palace can easily take half a day, especially if you decide to check out the stunning architecture of Westminster Abbey and Big Ben, which are within short walking distance of the palace. The  Tower of London , the  London Eye , and the iconic  Tower Bridge are about an hour’s walk from Buckingham Palace, so it’s worth either catching a ride to a starting point or just saving those sights for another day instead of rushing to visit all the destinations in one day.

Experience London Culture

Culture vultures will love London’s selection of  world-class museums and art galleries,  shopaholics will enjoy checking out  London’s amazing markets , and foodies will go crazy for the  city’s multicultural restaurants and street food finds .

Visit London Museums

The famous  Madame Tussauds  wax museum is a fun spot to visit, and history buffs or maritime aficionados will enjoy  Cutty Sark , a historic sailing ship that has been preserved and converted into an interactive museum.

If art museums are more to your liking, the  National Gallery  has over 2,600 amazing works from the 13th century to present day. You’ll see artworks by Leonardo da Vinci, Monet, Van Gogh, and Rembrandt, and admission is free! While you’re in the city center, you can walk to  Trafalgar Square  and watch the street performers in  Covent Garden ’s cobblestone plaza.

Go on a Literature and Theatre Tour

For fans of classic literature, the  Charles Dickens Museum  is a fantastic hidden gem. Located in Charles Dickens’ former home on Doughty Street, this museum has over 100,000 items related to the author, including manuscripts and personal items. The home is laid out as it would have looked while the author lived there, like a time capsule!

There is no shortage of theaters in London, but Shakespeare fans should definitely visit  The Globe Theatre . A reconstruction of the original theatre that burned down in 1613, this venue offers tours and has regular showings of Shakespeare’s plays. A trip to The Globe is as close as you’re ever going to get to seeing The Bard, so don’t miss it when you visit Europe.

If you are looking to take a couple of tours around London, these are the ones we recommend:

• Classic London 3.5-Hour Bike Tour : Take a morning bike ride through central London and visit some of the city’s iconic sights in an eco-friendly way.
• State Rooms at Buckingham Palace : A trip to London would be incomplete without taking in the wonders of Buckingham Palace. This tour gives you a closer look at life as a Royal, and the chance to marvel at some of the amazing treasures.
• Jack the Ripper Walking Tour : Journey back in time for a spine-chilling (and fun!) evening to discover the dark side of Jack the Ripper’s London.
• Climb The Roof of The O2 Arena : Become an urban mountaineer and get a uniquebird’s eye view of the city with a climbing tour of the O2 Arena.

Planning the London Portion of Your Europe Itinerary

Time Needed : Three to five days, although you can easily spend an entire week in London and feel like you didn’t get a chance to see everything.

Where to Stay in London

West End or Bloomsbury if you want to be  near attractions  and  entertainment options . Kings Cross, Euston, and Camden are  more popular with backpackers exploring the alternative side of London. We try to stay in eco-friendly accommodation as much as possible during our Europe trip. 

Eco-Friendly Hotels in London: 

• Wesley Hotel  is the first hotel in the UK to receive the Social Enterprise Mark for its sustainable practices. They are  located 15 minutes from King’s Cross Station, Camden Market,  and other famous attractions. The onsite restaurant relies on locally sourced ingredients and offers a variety of vegan options 
• The Cavendish  is an award-winning eco-hotel, located a mere  10 minutes walk  from Trafalgar Square and Buckingham Palace. Conveniently located just a few minutes from the Piccadilly Tube Station, The Cavendish is the perfect home base for your visit to London. 
• citizenM is situated in the heart of London and offers spectacular views of the river Thames, The Tower Bridge, and the Tower of London. The Tower Hill tube station is about a minute away, so you can easily get around London.

No Europe trip itinerary would be complete without Paris. Located  a quick 2.5-hour train ride from London ,   Paris  offers visitors some of the most iconic sights in the world, like the  Eiffel Tower,  the  Champs Élysées , the  Louvre , and the  Arc de Triomphe.

This city of high fashion, glamour, and arts is also known for amazing food, wine, shopping, and entertainment options. Of all the major cities on the continent, Paris is among the most walkable, making it a perfect destination for those who visit Europe. 

We recommend exploring Paris on foot, getting lost on its streets, and losing track of time while people watching in cafés along the way. Don’t miss the Sacré-Coeur  and a chance to check out the  Montmartre District , home of the  Moulin Rouge , street artists and performers, bohemian apartments, and tiny cobblestone streets.

Have a Garden Picnic

Paris is home to some of the most beautiful public gardens in the world, and a must-see for any trip to Europe. Located in the heart of Paris, the famous  Luxembourg Gardens  is the perfect place for a stroll and a picnic. If you plan on visiting the Louvre, the Jardin des Tuileries is just down the street from the museum. While not as popular as the Luxembourg Gardens, the lovely Jardin des Tuileries will be a welcome refreshment after the Louvre.

Take a Day Trip to the Loire Valley or Champagne Region

A visit to France wouldn’t be complete without a day in the country’s gorgeous countryside. To get to the Loire Valley, it’s about a 3-hour train ride from Paris, but it’s much easier to join a guided tour. This guided tour  provides transportation, a guided tour of three UNESCO-listed castles in the Loire Valley, and a wine tasting in Amboise.

With this   guided tour ,  Champagne lovers take a day trip to learn about bubbly at the source, sample several vintages, and tour historic sites in the region. You’ll take a guided walk through a vineyard, where you’ll learn about the specific grapes suitable for Champagne, tour the abbey where Dom Perignon lived in the 17th century, and visit with vintners for a demonstration of the production process. 

If you are looking to take a couple of tours around Paris, these are the ones we recommend:

• Evening at the Moulin Rouge : Feel the bohemian spirit with a show and glass of champagne at the Moulin Rouge.
• Secret Paris 3-Hour Bike Tour: Get off the beaten track and ride away from the usual tourist spots on this 3-hour bike tour. Your tour guide will take you to the  hidden gems of Paris to see street art, markets, and more.
• Dinner in 58 Tour Eiffel : Make a trip to the Eiffel Tower even more special by  having dinner  in ‘58 Tour Eiffel’ before taking the lift to the top to look out over the city that never sleeps.

Planning the Paris Portion of Your Europe Itinerary

Time needed:  two to four days, or longer if you love art, high fashion, and glamour Getting here:  Fly for $45 USD, take a 2.5-hour train for $60 USD, or take an overnight bus for $30 USD.

Where to Stay In Paris

Stay in the Montmartre District, if you want to be in  close proximity to entertainment options . The 19th and 13th arrondissements offer lots of great options, too.

Eco-Friendly Hotels in Paris: 

• Hotel Gavarni  is the first independent hotel in Paris to receive the European ecolabel for its sustainable practices. This boutique hotel is conveniently located just a short walk from the Eiffel Tower and a quick bus ride from the Champs Elysees, the Arc de Triomphe, and the Louvre.
• Hidden Hotel  is a contemporary hotel near the Champs Elysees. The hotel’s furniture is made largely from  organic farming materials  like stone, wood, linen, and leather. Hidden Hotel is part of Green Globe, the first global environmental certification program designed specifically for the travel and tourism industry. The hotel is within walking distance to a few places away from the tourist crowds, including the elegant  Parc Monceau , and the  Paris Fashion Museum .
• For a  slightly cheaper option,  the   Solar Hotel is a good choice for its eco-friendly nature, clean rooms, and value for money. Perks include free bicycle rentals and organic breakfast, plus a garden onsite that is open to hotel guests. Luxembourg Gardens, The Louvre, and Eiffel Tower are all a short walk or bike ride away, making Solar Hotel a great starting point for your adventures in the capital city.

While many travelers associate   Amsterdam with great parties and smoky coffee shops, there’s a lot more to the Netherlands’ capital than that. The city is full of museums, architecture, and art.

It’s also one of the most  eco-friendly stops on your Europe trip itinerary.  It’s extremely easy to explore on foot or to enjoy on two wheels. 

In our opinion, the  Van Gogh Museum  and the  Anne Frank House  are a must, as is the Leidseplein, which is the center of Amsterdam’s entertainment scene and home to nightclubs, movie theatres, concert venues, casinos, and the ubiquitous coffee shops.

Enjoy the Free Sights

If Amsterdam makes it onto your Europe trip itinerary, don’t skip the city’s amazing outdoor spaces. Located southwest of the city center and just west of Museum Quarter,  Vondelpark  is the largest urban park in Amsterdam. The park is full of paths, sculptures, and greenspaces, making it the perfect spot for a morning coffee or lunch picnic. 

Architecture buffs will enjoy Amsterdam’s  Canal Ring  area. Dating back to the 17th century, this half-moon of canals is a UNESCO World Heritage Site lined with historic buildings, restaurants, shops, and bars.

If you are looking to take a couple of tours around Amsterdam, these are the ones we recommend:

• Amsterdam Walking Tour: The Fascinating Story of Anne Frank : This guided walking tour is a must for anyone with an interest in history. Learn about the city during WWII and see it through the eyes of Anne Frank.
• Henri Willig Cheese Tasting Tour with Wine : Enjoy a  45-minute cheese tasting  sampling 5 different kinds of cheese while sipping on delicious red wine or specialty beer.
• Tour of the Dutch countryside : If you are planning to spend at least 10 days in Europe, you can afford to spend a little more time in Amsterdam and  take a road trip to the windmills ! A guided day trip to the water lands is a great way to get a break from the crowded streets of the city. 

Planning the Amsterdam Portion of Your Europe Itinerary

Time needed:  Two to four days Get there:  Take a  1.5-hour flight from Paris  for under $55 USD, a  3-hour train ride from Paris  for $57 USD or take an even cheaper overnight bus.

Where to Stay in Amsterdam

Stay in The Old Centre and the surrounding areas , so you can be  a short walk away  from the  main sights  and  shopping  and  entertainment  areas.

Eco-Friendly Hotels in Amsterdam:

• WestCord City Hotel  for its central location and its impressive sustainable practices. Conveniently located within five minutes of Dam Square and Kalverstraat, this hotel is at the heart of Amsterdam. 
• For a  slightly cheaper option  choose the   Conscious Hotel Vondelpark . This uber eco-conscious option is perhaps  among the greenest group  of hotels in Amsterdam. Guests are offered rental bikes and a daily vegetarian breakfast buffet prepared with organic produce. They have a few locations around the city including the   Conscious Hotel The Tire Station ,  and   Conscious Hotel The Westerpark .
• Qbic Hotel WTC Amsterdam  is an  affordable quirky eco-hotel in the downtown core. This hotel is a 15-minute bus ride to Museum Quarter, where you can easily spend a day wandering around the  Van Gogh Museum , the outstanding  Rijksmuseum , and the  Vondelpark .

Best known for its  historical associations, lively nightlife, street art,  and an  abundance of museums ,   Berlin is a fascinating city to visit on your first trip to Europe. This historical hotspot is famous for the   Berlin Wall , offers great nightlife,  and is one of the most eco-conscious cities in Europe.

Don’t Miss the Main Sights in Mitte

The city centre and historic district of Mitte are home to several of the most famous attractions in Berlin. You can easily spend half a day walking through the historic district, visiting the Brandenburg Gate, the Reichstag, the Holocaust Memorial, the Berlin Wall Memorial, and more sights significant to the city’s history.

See the Famous Street Art of Berlin

To explore the alternative side of the capital city, head to the Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain districts. Here, you’ll see the East Side Gallery and Museum, a kilometre-long stretch of the former Berlin Wall that is now covered in murals, including the famous piece of Leonid Brezhnev and Erich Honecker kissing. For a more in-depth experience and a chance to see some hidden gems, consider a guided walking tour  of Berlin’s street art.

If you are looking to take a couple of tours around Berlin, these are the ones we recommend:

• Tempelhof Airport: Hidden Places – Guided Tour : This 2-hour walking tour will take you down into the underground bunkers and tunnels beneath the city exploring the secret and off-the-beaten-path gems.
• Berlin: 3-Hour Segway Tour : Ditch the bus tours for a more sustainable 2-wheel tour of the city! You’ll glide past  Berlin’s most famous monuments , learning and having fun as you go.
• Mitte Culinary Food Tour : This 3-hour tour will prove to you that Berlin is more than just German sausage! 

Planning the Berlin Portion of Your Europe Itinerary

Time needed:  Two to four days. Check out our 3-day Berlin itinerary here .   Get there:  From Amsterdam,  take an overnight bus  for about $28 USD, a 6.5-hour train for $45, or a two-hour flight for around $65 USD.

Where to Stay in Berlin

Stay in Mitte to be close to  major sights  and  attractions  or the  artsy areas  of Friedrichshain and Kreuzberg if you want to experience the best of Berlin’s nightlife.

Eco-Friendly Hotels in Berlin: 

• Hotel Bleibtreu Hotels  eco-focus is on using sustainable products – so all of their cleaning products are chemical free and their restaurant uses  locally sourced healthy ingredients ! The hotel is a short walk away from public transportation hubs, making this a convenient home base for your visit to Berlin.
• Scandic Berlin Kurfuerstendamm Hotel  is located in the  main shopping district  of Berlin, and   Scandic Berlin Potsdamer Platz Hotel is in the trendy Kreuzberg district. They have both won a number of awards for their sustainability efforts, including the prestigious Green Globe award .
• For a slightly cheaper option check out the   Circus Hostel . This unique hotel is loved for its sustainable practices, and location close to Mitte. Dorm beds or private rooms are available. The hotel offers rental bikes, and it’s just a short walk from the Rosenthalerplatz U-Bahn Station. For a night in, Circus Hostel has an onsite microbrewery and a quirky museum dedicated to David Hasselhoff. 

Germany’s diversity grants it two spots on your Europe itinerary.  For a taste of true Bavarian culture , check out the picturesque town of   Munich . Visit the  English Garden,  hang out in the  Marienplatz , and see the  Old Town Square alive with street performers. You can also check out  München’s Viktualienmarkt , climb to the top of  St. Peter’s Church  for amazing views of Munich, and take part in the world-famous  Oktoberfest  in September.

If you are looking to take a couple of tours around Munich, these are the ones we recommend:

• Day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle : If you’re traveling to Europe for the first time you may have dreams of Disney-type castles surrounded by enchanted forests, and day trips like this one are a must for your itinerary. It’s just a 2 hours train or coach ride from Munich and the journey itself will make this the ultimate Europe trip.
• Munich Segway Tour : For a fun way to explore the city take a 2.5-hour guided Segway tour. An experienced guide will take you to visit Konigsplatz, the historic town hall square, the English Garden, Museums, and the State Chancellery.
• Scavenger Hunt through the Old Town : A great activity for those on a Europe trip with the family and is another fun and novel way to discover the city and see its most interesting sights.

Planning The Munich Portion of Your Europe Itinerary

Time needed : Two to four days Get there:  From Berlin, take an  overnight bus  for around $30 USD, a  6-hour train for under $25 USD, or a one-hour flight for $165 USD. 

Where to Stay in Munich

Stay in the city centre to be within walking distance from  Marienplatz  and the  Viktualienmarkt food market . Or choose one of the less touristy   neighborhoods to stay in Munich . 

Eco-Friendly Hotels in Munich: 

• Hotel Metropol  is conveniently located within a short walking distance of Old Town and Munich Central Station. Focused on sustainability, Hotel Metropol offers guests a breakfast buffet full of delicious food prepared with ingredients from Upper Bavaria and nearby organic farms.
• The Derag Livinghotel  is  next to the Viktualienmarkt food market . They are very environmentally conscious and offer well-appointed, clean rooms that use renewable energy sources. The Reichenbachplatz Tram Stop is a 2-minute walk away, linking you to popular sights. 
• A slightly cheaper option is the   Novotel München City . They have a long list of green credentials and offer soundproof rooms at a central location. The hotel is a 20-minute walk from the heart of Munich or a 5-minute ride by subway.

Prague  is considered to be  one of the most unique, romantic, and beautiful cities in all of Europe . Make sure you leave enough time on a Europe trip itinerary for this Bohemian gem! 

Visit Staromestske Namesti

Famous for its unique medieval architecture, the historic city center is home to famous attractions like  Prague Castle,   Charles Bridge , the  Old City Hall , and the famed  Astronomical Clock.  Founded during the 12th century, this square in historical Prague is lined with stunning baroque architecture, restaurants, and galleries. 

If you visit the city during the holiday season, be sure to check out the famous  Christmas Markets  held here every year. This is the largest of Prague’s Christmas markets, and it’s just beautiful to see at night.

If you are looking to take a couple of tours around Prague, these are the ones we recommend:

• Communism and Nuclear Bunker Tour:   Excellent choice for  history buffs . Enjoy a tour of Prague’s communist past.
• Prague Ghost Tour: Dark Shadows of the Old Town:   If you like stories of ghosts and ghouls, give yourself a fright with this 2-hour walking tour.
• Half-day trip to Kutná Hora and Ossuary from Prague:  See the weird and wonderful Church of All Saints, decorated with more than 40,000 human bones.

Planning The Prague Portion of Your Europe Itinerary

Time needed:  Two to four days Get there:  From Munich, take a  five-hour train for just $25 USD or a 4.5-hour  bus for $25 USD. Depending on the time of year, you’ll pay around $120 USD for a 1.5-hour flight that will take you from Munich to Prague.

Where to Stay in Prague

Stay in the city centre or in the Lesser Town (Mala Strana), the historical centre of the city.

Eco-Friendly Hotels in Prague: 

• Adria Hotel  for its sustainable practices and location right in Wenceslas Square. Here historic  charm meets modern amenities . The hotel is less than 1 km away from Old Town Square, so you can easily reach the Astronomical Clock and other sights on foot.
• For a slightly cheaper option, the   Mosaic House is a nice choice. This carbon-neutral hotel is a part hostel as well.  The hotel is a 15-minute walk from the Old Town Square, and close to attractions in the modern city like the Prague Botanical Garden.
• Aurea Legends  is a sustainable boutique hotel housed in one of Prague’s many historic buildings. The hotel is just a short walk from the most popular sights in Prague and steps away from restaurants and cafes.

Rome  is one of the most important  centers for art and history in the world, and it’s chock-full of bucket-list sights and attractions. Its  historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site , and the city is famous for its millennia-old churches, grand ruins, lavish monuments, elaborate statues, and graceful fountains. 

Lovers of food, art and history, beauty and love itself should put Rome on their Europe itinerary. Of all the European countries, there is no comparison to the romance of this beautiful city. If you have to be selective with your itinerary, make sure to visit Italy.

If you are looking to get the most out of Roma in your short time in the city, consider taking a couple of tours. These are the ones we recommend:

• Vatican Museum, Sistine Chapel, and Saint Peter’s : We’re not necessarily fans of museums but there are some that are the exception and this is certainly one of them!
• Colosseum and Ancient Rome Walking Tour : Discover the  ancient past of this great city on a 3.5-hour walking tour and skip the queues at the most popular sites.
• 4-Hour Food Tour by Night : You’ll sample some of the best food on your Europe trip to Rome, so it’s worth dedicating a whole evening to this great culinary experience
• 1-Day Rome Tour : Perfect for those on a tight timeframe. This 1-day walking tour will take you straight to all the best sights and allow you to skip the queues.

Planning The Rome Portion of Your Europe Itinerary

Time needed:  Two to four days Get there:  From Prague, take an overnight train to Rome for about $50 USD. At 15 hours, it’s a pretty long train ride so if you’d rather save time, consider a  1.5-hour flight for $55 USD or less. 

Where to Stay in Rome

Staying near the Termini train station  is one of the most popular neighborhoods to stay in while visiting Rome since it makes it easy to get in and around Rome during your time there. However, there are a couple of other   neighborhoods in Rome  to consider.

Eco-Friendly Hotels: 

• President Hotel for its sustainable practices, central location, and amazing breakfast which features Italian classic cuisine. The hotel is a little over a kilometre away from the  Coliseum , Palatine Hill, and the ancient ruins of the Roman Forum .
• DVE Suite Rome  is located  close to Termini train station, and the Coliseum . The hotel is steps away from the Monti district, a historic section full of medieval alleys full of boutiques and trattorias away from the crowded tourist spots. They honour a series of policies to operate their business sustainably.
• Foro Romano is a sustainable boutique hotel just a few metres from the Roman Forum and Circus Maximus. Other sights, like the Coliseum, Trevi Fountain, and the Palazzo Venezia are about a 15-minute walk from the hotel. If location is your top priority, you really can’t go wrong with Foro Romano

Barcelona  is full of culture, incredible food, markets, museums, rich history, and great nightlife. It makes for a great last stop on your whirlwind Europe itinerary. 

Soak up the sun on  Barcelona’s gorgeous beaches , enjoy street performers and cafés on La Rambla, shop at the markets,  admire  Gaudí’s modernist architecture,  and spend the nights enjoying  Barcelona’s lively nightlife .

If you are looking to take a couple of tours around   Barcelona , these are the ones we recommend:

• The Ice Bar Experience : If the heat of the city is getting too much, then cool down with a trip to the Ice Bar.
• Barcelona Main Sights by E-Bike : Explore Barcelona’s sights with a local guide during a 2.5-hour electric bike tour. You’ll discover the  history of the Gothic Quarter  and visit some of the most iconic landmarks.
• Montserrat Monastery & Natural Park Hike : If you still have some energy left at the end of your ultimate Europe trip, then we recommend a  half-day hike to   Montserrat  to visit the Abbey . If you’re lucky, you’ll also get to hear the famous boys’ choir.

Planning The Barcelona Portion of Your Europe Itinerary

Time needed:  Two to four days Get there:  From Rome, take an hour and a half flight for $30 USD.

Where to Stay in Barcelona

Stay in the  old city  to be in close proximity to sights and attractions or  along La Rambla .

• Arts Hotel  for its incredible views of Barceloneta Beach, and its sustainable practices. The hotel houses a contemporary art collection and a two Michelin-starred restaurant. 
• The Eco Boutique   Hostal Grau  is a wonderful choice for its beautiful rooms. This modern, family-run hotel is steps from the Modern Art Museum and Placa Catalunya.
• If you are willing to share a room,   Twentytu Hostel  is an  affordable green option . In fact, they have one of the greenest properties in Barcelona and were one of the  first hotel properties  in Barcelona to apply green technology. The hostel also offers rental bikes, and guided tours for groups.
• Mas Salagros Eco-Resort  is technically just outside the city limit, but definitely worth a mention. This  luxurious resort  has earned the label of 100% sustainable. The resort offers cooking classes and fragrance workshops, both using organic produce and aromatics grown onsite. 

Give Yourself Time to be Flexible

Follow our recommendations above  for a three to five-week Europe itinerary . Plan your route ahead of time, but give yourself a little bit of flexibility when it comes to the number of days in each city. You never know which one of these amazing European cities will  steal your heart , making you linger for a few extra days.

Get Off the Beaten Path

If time permits and you’re looking to extend your stay in Europe, consider going  off the beaten path  and paying a visit to non-capital cities in Europe. We have a whole host of ideas on our   Europe destination page .

While they might not get as much attention from travelers as the capital cities do,  they pack a punch  and offer some  unique experiences  that will make your Europe trip that much more exciting.

About The Author

Oksana & Max St John

2 thoughts on “the ultimate western europe itinerary for first-time visitors”.

European countries are amazing to visit. One needs to be careful as its not same as other countries.

My wife and I are excited for the vacation we’ve booked in Europe to Spain and definitely we will go to the Canary. Gran Canaria is one of our eyeing place for our 1st stop 🙂 There so many thing we want to do from a page we’ve read https://www.canaryislandsinfo.co.uk/gran-canaria/places/

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3 Weeks in Western Europe Itinerary

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The countries listed under Western Europe can conflict depending on which resources you look into. For this article, we’ll only include the far west of Europe: Ireland, the UK, Belgium, and the Netherlands.

If you have 3 weeks in Western Europe, you will get to see at least 3-4 different countries, visit historical spots, try out local dishes, and enjoy the scenic locations.

All these countries are sought-after by international visitors for different reasons. The west of Europe is rich in history, has one of the oldest cultures and governments in the world, and is famous for its beautiful sceneries and exciting cuisine.

The Netherlands is located in Northwestern Europe with Caribbean overseas territories. The Netherlands is famous for many things, including cheese markets, wooden shoes, windmills, and bulb fields.

Next is Belgium, bordered by Germany to the east, The Netherlands to the North, France to the southwest, and Luxembourg to the southeast. It is well-known for, you guessed it right, chocolate. Aside from that, they also have medieval castles and modern architecture.

The UK is famous for many things and prominent people , including the Royal Family. England is also the birthplace of some of the most renowned music artists, including the Beatles, Sir Elton John, Queen, and the Bee Gees.

Aside from people, you’ll also find historically-famous structures here, such as Big Ben and London Bridge. The UK consists of 4 countries. Scotland is known for its highlands, whisky distilleries, and lively music.

Wales, the home of the stunning Snowdonia National Park . Northern Ireland is located on the island northwest of the UK. And, of course, England – a globally-diverse country.

ALSO READ: 20 days in Southern Europe itinerary

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE GOING TO WEST EUROPE

We all know many things to see and adventures to experience in these beautiful countries. But before we proceed with the actual itinerary for your 3 weeks in Western Europe, there are some essential matters that you should know first.

Such as the modes of transportation in the country, the best time to go, the languages and currencies, as well the visa policies.

All this information will help you write and plan your travel itinerary for Western Europe and ensure you will have a great time.

When is the best time to go to West Europe

West Europe’s summer is from June to September, and the peak season is from mid-June to August. If you’re curious about winter activities and foods, the winter season is from December to February.

While October through March/April is the rainy season in Western Europe, these months offer magnificent changes of colours on the trees, flowers, and other plants.

I prefer going during the shoulder season, which is in May and September . There will be fewer people and the cost of accommodation will be lower. Plus, the weather is much bearable, neither too hot nor so rainy.

What to pack

What you need to pack depends on the season you plan to visit. If you want to go to Western Europe in summer, pack breathable and lightweight clothes but also carry one long-sleeved pair of trousers, which will be required to be worn when visiting sacred sites such as churches and cathedrals. Check out our summer packing list for a 3-week trip .

For the winter packing list , you should bring a down jacket and plan to do layering instead of packing a heavy and thick winter jacket. Doing layers means you can bring more clothes and have multiple outfits. You can also remove the layers if some of the days seem to be too hot for a jacket.

READ >> What to pack for a 3-week holiday (comes with free printable)

How to get around

Getting around is very easy in Western Europe. You can have a pick depending on which one you prefer and which is most suitable for you. If you want freedom of your time, renting a car is the best option. But remember that you might have to switch cars whenever you cross international borders.

Trains, in general, are also reliable. Western Europe has an excellent network for riding trains, even between countries. The same goes for taking the bus. It will be slower than the train and driving but cheaper. You can also take a flight, but remember that you still need to arrive at the airport 2-3 hours before international flights.

Language and currency

Most people in Western Europe can speak English. UK’s primary language is English. Belgium has three official languages, Dutch, German and French, while the Netherlands has Dutch as its primary language.

The UK uses the Births Pound Sterling (GBP / £) while the Netherlands and Belgium use Euro (€). Paying with your credit card or bank card is convenient in these places; however, carrying some cash with you will be wise.

Are 3 weeks enough for Western Europe

3 weeks in Western Europe is an incredible amount of time . You can visit 2 countries in the UK and 2 other countries (Ireland, Belgium, or the Netherlands). The travel time between these countries should be less than 3-4 hours. You can even reach some destinations in under an hour or less than 2 hours.

Average travel cost for Western Europe

This part of Europe requires high cost. B udget about $100-$150 per day per person ($150 to $400 for two people) for 20 days in Western Europe. If you don’t mind staying in hostels, you can probably squeeze to $80/day. We also have a guide for 3 weeks in Europe on a budget that highlights affordable destinations in Europe.

Accommodation usually is the highest cost, a hotel room will run you at least $40 a night, you can save some money by staying in shared rooms in youth hostels where the bunk bed is around $20 a night.

Transportation is quite a decent price if you plan to use public buses and trains. If you want to rent a car, plan to spend between $15 to $70 per day, depending on the size and type. Both the Netherlands and Belgium are small countries, you can easily get around without a car.

Food can be affordable, but make sure to at least dine at a nice local restaurant at least a few times. Look for family-owned places to have the full experience of the local cuisine. Around $25 per day for 2-3 meals per day will be a decent budget.

You can also reach our specific articles about the average cost of a 3-week trip . We discussed the cost if you’re a single person, for two people, and for a family of four. Plus, tips on how to save some money.

Since the UK left the EU, it has changed its visa policy for international visitors. EU passport holders can still enter the UK without a visa. But instead of having freedom of movement, you can stay for 6 months maximum.

The same policy applies to travellers holding a passport from the US, Canada, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Brazil, Chile, Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, Namibia, and Botswana.

The rest of the world has to apply for a UK tourist visa beforehand. The processing time can take a while, it’s recommended to submit your application at least 3 months before your intended trip.

Belgium, Ireland, and the Netherlands are part of the EU and the Schengen States. This means that all three countries have the same visa policy in place.

If you hold a passport issued by another EU member country, you have freedom of movement in these 3 countries. This allows you to stay in Belgium, Ireland, and the Netherlands for an indefinite period of time.

Travellers from most parts of Latin America, North America, Oceania, some parts of East and Southeast Asia, and East Europe can enter and travel around the three countries for up to 90 days in 180 days. You must obtain a Schengen Tourist Visa if your passport is not listed.

Other travel tips

There are now a lot of travel sites and services out there relating to travel arrangements. Honestly, they can be overwhelming. Not to mention the ever-changing travel policies.

This is why I stick to travel sites that offer some free or flexible cancellation policies in case my travel plan changes or some rules become updated.

Below is a list of my personal favourites when it comes to arranging and booking my trip. From finding flights, hotels, tours, and airport pick-up. I also always buy affordable travel insurance for peace of mind. Perhaps you’ll find these helpful too.

MUST-SEE PLACES IN WEST EUROPE (pinned map)

Click the enlarge button on the top right corner. Credit: map data: Google

3 WEEKS IN WESTERN EUROPE ITINERARY

This itinerary is fantastic because you will be starting in London and finishing the trip in Amsterdam. Both cities have big airport hubs that have flights directly to many countries in the world.

England might be famous for its historical landmarks, but did you know it also has scenic beaches? That’s right, it has an unbelievably stunning coastline where you can unwind and relax.

It has many festivals year-round and even quirky traditions that would be fun to witness, such as chasing a block of cheese down the hill and the apple wassail ceremony.

Meanwhile, Scotland might be a haven for hikers because you can basically hike everywhere. It has more than 2,100 hiking spots listed as of the moment, and they’re adding more up until now.

The hiking trails are also well-marked, making them easy to find and follow if you’re hiking in Scotland for the first time. Aside from hiking trails, this country is abundant in lakes and islands.

Next is Belgium. Besides mouthwatering food, stunning medieval towns, and magnificent castles, Belgium is also the home of the European Union and a remarkably flat country. Regardless, it has one of the most famous pro cyclists in the world, such as Eddy Merckx (most stage wins in Tour de France history – tie with Cavendish).

You’ll find tons of vintage shops and boutique stores in the Netherlands. The biggest flea market in Europe can be located in Amsterdam. Visit the canals, ride a bicycle, and check out its tulip bloom in spring.

If you visit in winter, pack your ice skating shoes because the canals will freeze, and the locals will turn it into a magical skating park.

England for 7 days

Aside from the world-famous music and artists, there are many other things England is famous for, such as Stonehenge, a UNESCO World Heritage site, Buckingham Palace, the London Eye, Windsor Castle, football, drinking tea, and English breakfast.

England is a perfect starting point for your three weeks in West Europe as it offers various day trips from London.

Some day trips to another country include the Cardiff day trip, the luxury Paris day trip, the Brussels visit, a day out in Antwerp, or walking through Medieval Bruges.

These trips are easily accessible as international flights are regularly available at Heathrow Airport or by train and ferry from England to neighbouring countries.

Day trips within the country include Warner Bros studio Harry Potter tour, London River Thames dinner cruise, Downtown Abbey Village day trip, and more. If you want to only explore England, we have a guide for 3 weeks in England .

TIP : If you have never been to England, I recommend using London as your base then take day trips from there.

Things to do in London

• Get a hop-on, hop -off bus pass to visit top attractions at your convenience, it comes with a river cruise
• Tower of London and Crown Jewels – get your ticket in advance
• Tower Bridge and Big Ben
• Join a fun Harry Potter guided walking tour and get a ticket to Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio – check the tour price
• The British Museum
• Book a spooky Jack the Ripper tour – check the tour price
• Kensington Palace
• Buckingham Palace
• Westminster Abbey – can be visited with a River Thames cruise
• The National Gallery
• London Eye – skip-the-line ticket
• Picadilly Circus and Trafalgar Square
• Madame Tussauds
• Windsor Castle
• Stonehenge – you can do a combo tour of Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Bath

Things to do in Northern England

• Explore Manchester on a city bus – get your ticket
• Castlefield Canals
• Science and Industry Museum
• Coronation Street
• Sign up for a food tour or Cheese crawl
• Manchester Cathedral
• National Football Museum (Manchester City) – join a stadium tour
• The Whitworth
• Book a canal cruise
• Enjoy a day trip to the North of Wales, Snowdonia, and Chester or a day trip to the Lake District and Windermere
• Penny Lane and Strawberry Fields (Liverpool)
• Tate Liverpool
• World War II Museum (Liverpool)
• Merseyside Maritime Museum
• Mersey River (Liverpool) – enjoy a cruise at Mersey River
• Croxteth Hall (Liverpool)
• Enjoy a Beatles tour / Beatles Story (Liverpool) – hop-on, hop-off Beatles tour
• Birkenhead Park (Liverpool)
• Liverpool Football Stadium (Anfield) – visit LCF stadium with a guide
• Peaky Blinders filming locations (Liverpool)
• Book a ghosting walking tour (Liverpool)

Accommodations in London

• Affordable: Hootananny Hostel or Dover Castle Hostel or The Phoenix Hostel
• Mid-range: Central Hotel or Keystone House or Studios2Let
• Luxury: The Londoner or The Ampersand Hotel or One Hundred Shoreditch

Scotland 4 days

3 weeks in Western Europe must include a visit to the highlands. Scotland has picturesque landscapes that look straight out of a movie scene. You could also do many activities, such as bike riding, skiing, hiking, and visiting well-preserved historical sites.

Scotland is famous for its castles, Loch Ness, where the tales of the Loch Ness monster originated, bagpipes, and more. It’s also close to London, with more than three hours of travel time via plane. Other modes of transportation include driving, riding a bus, or boarding a scenic train.

Scotland’s tourist spots include Edinburgh Castle, Isle of Skye, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, Fort William, and Ben Nevis. Go golfing at St. Andrews Royal and Ancient Golf Club since this sport originated in this country.

You can also simply spend 3 weeks in the UK (England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland) or do the 3 weeks in the UK and Ireland , or 3 weeks in Ireland and Northern Ireland .

From England, you can easily get to Scotland by land. You can either rent a car and drive, take the bus, or the train. The bus will be the most affordable, while the train offers a scenic experience. Driving a car will be the fastest.

Edinburgh vs Glasgow

You can choose between these two cities to use as your base while exploring Scotland. Both are of course gorgeous in their own way. Edinburg is a bigger city while Glasgow has a very cool charm and is close to Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park and less-visited parts of Scotland.

Things to do in Scotland

• Edinburgh Castle – get your skip-the-line ticket
• The Royal Palace
• National War Museum
• Palace of Holyroodhouse
• See more of the Harry Potter – HP guided walking tour
• National Museum of Scotland
• Arthur’s Seat – you can take the trail from Holywood Park
• Edinburgh Hidden Secrets – join the underground walking tour
• Dean Village
• Calton Hill
• Camera Obscura & World of Illusions
• The Gatehouse
• Scottish National Portrait Gallery
• Craigmillar Castle
• Portobello Beach
• Don’t miss the spooky features – haunted underground and graveyard tour
• Duddingston Golf Club
• Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
• Loch Lomond – you can enjoy an hour of boat cruise
• The Trossachs National Park
• Tease your taste buds with – chocolate tour and Scotch whiskey tour
• Loch Ness – join a full-day Scottish Highlands tour
• Stirling Castle
• From Inverness – you can do a full-day tour to the Isle of Skye and Eilean Donan Castle

Accommodations in Edinburgh

• Budget hostels: High Street Hostel or Royal Mile Backpackers
• Mid-range hotels: Native Edinburgh or Holyrood Aparthotel
• Luxury hotel: Apex City of Edinburgh Hotel or Kimpton – Charlotte Square

Accommodations in Glasgow

• Affordable: Euro Hostel or The Z Hotel
• Mid-range: Point A Hotel or Motel One
• Luxury: Native Glasgow or Maldron Hotel

Belgium for 4 days

Various incredible architecture and scenic small towns on lakes can be found in Belgium. This country is also one of the most famous in terms of the quality of sweets. Aside from the chocolates, their Belgian waffles are also a must-try, and they can easily be found around the country’s capital – Brussels.

Do you know that the diamond capital of the world is Belgium? It also has the largest courthouse and an abundance of castles. It is also well-known for unusual and astonishing artworks.

Belgium’s tourist spots are the canals, cathedrals, and castles of Ghent, upper Meuse Valley, the Royal Art and History Museum, and Mechelen Old Town, among others.

There are many ways to reach Belgium if you’re coming from Scotland . The most recommended is flying, which has more than 4 hours of travel. The cheapest option is to ride the bus, and other modes of transportation include riding the train, bus, or driving.

Things to do in Belgium

• Purchase hop-on, hop-off bus pass – check the price
• Grand-Place
• Join a walking tour – history and tasting tour or beer and chocolate tou r or legends of Brussels/historical tour
• Manneken Pis
• Atomium – get your entry ticket in advance
• Belfry of Bruges
• Discover Belgian cuisine – chocolate, beer, waffle, and whiskey tour or chocolate walking tour and workshop
• Royal Palace of Brussels
• Gravensteen
• St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral
• Royal Museum of Fine Arts
• Mini-Europe
• Parc du Cinquantenaire
• Sign up for a pub crawl
• Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert
• Day trip to Ghent and Antwerp – check the itinerary
• Museum Aan de Stroom
• Day trip to Luxembrough and Didant – book your tour
• Mont des Arts
• Day trip to Amsterdam – read the reviews and see the price

Accommodations Brussels

• Affordable: Artistic World or Jacques Brel Youth Hotel or 2G04 Hostel Grand Place
• Mid-range: 9Hotel Central or Motel One or Latroupe Grand Place Hostel
• Luxury: Radisson Collection Grand Place or The Hotel Brussels

The Netherlands for 4 days

During your 20 days in West Europe, you plan to stay in the Netherlands for at least 4 days. This will allow you to visit its historical and modern architecture, scenic walking trails, varied craft beers, and coffee shops.

You’ll also see tons of artwork and visit the famous place where the teenage author Anne Frank hid during the German occupation of the Netherlands.

This country is famous for its capital and most populous city, Amsterdam. It has exciting nightlife and world-renowned museums, gorgeous canals, and historical monuments, so it is perfect for everyone, no matter what type of visitor you are.

It’s also where you can visit the beautiful tulip farms, traditional Dutch houses, and the home of the tallest people in the world – where the average person is about 182.5 cm (6 feet) .

The Netherlands isn’t that far from Belgium. The most recommended mode of transportation is to board the train, with a travel duration of almost 3 hours and the cheapest option is through rideshare. Other options include driving and riding a bus.

It is perfect to end the trip in this country because there are loads of international flights to and from Amsterdam, so you’ll easily be able to return to your homeland or proceed to your next destination. If you have 3 weeks in Western Europe, it definitely must include the beautiful Netherlands.

Things to do in the Netherlands

• Anne Frank House – join a walking tour through the Jewish Quarter
• Cube Houses
• Rijksmuseum – check the tour price
• Heineken Experience
• Mauritshuis
• Van Gogh Museum – skip-the-line ticket
• Royal Palace Amsterdam
• Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam
• Amsterdam Canals – evening cruise or booze cruise or classic boat with drinks & cheese or all-inclusive Captain Jack
• UNESCO Werelderfgoed
• Keukenhof Gardens – grab your entry ticket with transportation
• Albert Cuyp Market
• The National Maritime Museum
• Zaanse Schans – day trip to Zaanse Schans, Volendam, and Marken or Zaanse Schans, Giethoorn, Afsluitdijk tour
• Icebar – book your ticket with 3 drinks included
• Erasmusbrug
• Digital Art Audiovisual Museum at Rotterdam – read the reviews

Accommodations in Amsterdam

Accommodations in the Netherlands are very expensive. It’s recommended that you book your room in advance, especially if your travel plans fall during the peak season – summer and spring.

• Affordable: This Hostel or Nadia Hotel or The Bee Hostel
• Mid-range: Motel One or Inntel Hotels
• Luxury: Hotel Esthrea or Room Mate Aitana

SUMMARY OF 3 WEEKS IN WEST EUROPE ITINERARY

There are tons of sights and sceneries in this part of Europe. 3 weeks in Western Europe and barely scratch the surface. You can even come back later and never see the same locations twice, that’s how diverse everything is here.

From history buffs to landscape enthusiasts, outdoor lovers, and foodies – west Europe has something for everyone. If you don’t enjoy big cities, you can easily visit smaller villages and get away from the big crowd of tourists while still experiencing and learning about each country’s history and culture.

I hope you found this travel itinerary for 3 weeks in Western Europe helpful.

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Head to Western Europe with a Eurail Pass and be amazed by how much you can see by train on a single vacation. This travel itinerary takes you to famous cities, including Paris, Geneva, Munich, Berlin and Amsterdam. Check out world-class monuments in Paris, admire the dramatic mountain ranges of the Alps as you travel by train between Geneva and Interlaken, and be charmed by Amsterdam's canals. A truly exciting Eurail adventure!

Cities visited in this trip:

Paris, france, geneva, switzerland, interlaken, switzerland, innsbruck, austria, salzburg, austria, munich, germany, berlin, germany, amsterdam, the netherlands, bruges, belgium.

Start your journey by clicking here or on the map on the right

Paris is a city loved the world over, and for very good reason. The capital of France has a multitude of must-sees, and as cliché as it may be, the Eiffel Tower (tour Eiffel) is top of the list. Dedicate half a day to roaming around the Louvre , the most visited art museum in the world and set eyes on Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa. Once you’ve had your artistic fill, find a spot along the Seine and absorb the charisma that dances through this beautiful city. Escape the hustle and bustle of Paris on the peaceful grounds of the Père Lachaise Cemetery (Cimetière du Père-Lachaise). Many renowned artists and authors were laid to rest here, including The Doors’ singer Jim Morrison and celebrated writer Oscar Wilde. Montmartre – the city's highest point–is another calm place offering spectacular views over Paris. Drop into the Sacré Cœur (Basilique du Sacré-Cœur) while you’re there.

From Paris to Geneva

Travel time:

Gare de Lyon

Genève-Cornavin

Welcome to Geneva, one of Europe’s most cosmopolitan cities and home to international bodies, the United Nations and International Red Cross , the offices of which can be visited. Do a spot of retail therapy on the Rue de Marché, where Switzerland’s best-loved brands may tempt you to part with your money. Catch breathtaking views of Western Europe’s tallest mountain Mont Blanc (15770ft / 4807m), visible from the city center. Most special of all is the French-styled old town with its winding roads and café terraces laid out. And let’s not forget that Geneva is home to Europe’s largest glacial lake, with the French and Swiss Alps punctuating this stunning backdrop. The scenic train route around the lake offers fantastic views of this spectacular part of Switzerland. Eurail pass holders get free boat rides around Lake Geneva with CGN boat services – just show your pass.

From Geneva to Interlaken

Bern, switzerland.

Bahnhof Bern

Interlaken Ost

Interlaken is Switzerland’s (and perhaps Europe’s) adventure-sport mecca, where anything goes - from world-class snowboarding and skiing pistes to paragliding and skydiving above the sparkling Brienz and Thun lakes  or plunging through white rapids aboard a raft. The Jungfrau Railway* chugs its way to the Jungfrau mountain , which towers dramatically over the town. Once you get there, you'll be rewarded with mind-blowing views of the mountain giants Jungfrau, Eiger, and Mönch. * You'll get a discount on this private railway attraction with your Eurail Pass.

From Interlaken to Innsbruck

Bahnhof Bern

Zurich, Switzerland

Innsbruck Hbf

The first thing you’ll notice on stepping out of Innsbruck train station is the mountain vista that surrounds the entire Austrian town. The old town is the city’s beloved center, dressed in bright-coloured medieval buildings and home to the Goldenes Dachl (Golden Roof) – an intricately-detailed gothic balcony. For great views of the Tyrolean capital, you’ve got plenty of options – take the Hungerburg Funicular up the mountainside, or visit the Bergisel Ski Jump Stadium, where you can also take in views of the jump used in the 1976 Winter Olympics. Alternatively, take the sightseeing bus to Ambras Castle,  perched up on the Innsbruck mountainside. For the adrenaline junkies, there are heaps of adventure sports to partake in, come snow or shine.

From Innsbruck to Salzburg

Salzburg Hbf

Salzburg, Austria’s gem of a city, was the birthplace and home to Mozart. Check out the 2 fascinating museums dedicated to the city’s prodigy, both of which he once lived in. Wander aimlessly through the old town and step back to a period of magnificent architecture and riches. From atop the Hohensalzburg Fortress, enjoy enchanting views of the city and the Salzach river as it radiates through the city. A trip to Salzburg wouldn’t be the same without joining the Sound of Music Tour , taking you on a whistle-stop tour of the film’s key locations, passing the snow-capped mountains, sprawling green meadows and crystal blue lakes of Salzburg’s Lake District. You’ll also be let into the facts and fiction of the Von Trapp family as portrayed in the Hollywood movie.

From Salzburg to Munich

München Hbf

Munich, set in the heart of Bavaria, is Germany’s third-largest city. Visit during Oktoberfest, and you’ll be in for a treat during this traditional Bavarian beer-drinking festival. Held annually, this is Germany's most famous festival, attracting more than 5 million people. The city itself is centered around Marienplatz , the main square and the life and soul of the city. Visit the Munich Residence (Münchner Residenz), once the royal palace to the Bavarian monarch—marvel at the Renaissance, baroque, rococo and neoclassical styles of decoration. Once you’ve fed your artistic taste buds, it’s time to join the locals at the Hofbrauhaus – one of Munich’s oldest breweries. This famous beer-drinking hall can hold up to 3,500 revelers. Try not to be intimidated by the 1-liter glasses – known as a maß.

From Munich to Berlin

Perhaps Europe’s coolest capital, Germany's Berlin, is famous for its underground subcultures and alternative attitude while surrounded by remnants of a dramatic past. To get your head around Berlin’s part in the Cold War, visit Checkpoint Charlie – once the official crossing point between East and West. There are also a number of World War II bunker tours, including detailed accounts of the events that unfolded there.

Berlin is home to an eclectic bunch of artists, musicians and many on a journey of experimentation and discovery. There’s an array of art galleries and exhibitions across the city, including the Berlinsche Gallery, with a permanent collection from local artists dating back to 1870, covering a broad spectrum of themes and periods. Come night, decadence and hedonism is in full flow throughout Berlin’s underground scene.

From Berlin to Amsterdam

Reservation needed:

Reservation optional

Amsterdam Centraal Station

Amsterdam may be small for a capital, but there’s plenty of reason to stop there. Visit the Van Gogh Museum and journey through the works of the famous Dutch painter, or explore the Rijks Museum with its display of Dutch art from the Golden Age. Another must-see is the Anne Frank Museum – step inside the Secret Annex that was the home and hiding place of the Jewish girl and her family for over 2 years during World War II. It’s a city famous for its seedy Red Light District lined with coffee shops, but don't be tricked into thinking that Amsterdam is one-dimensional. Wander through the cobbled canal-side lanes and stop off at one of the traditional Amsterdam brown cafés (bruin café) for a local beer, or head to the Nine Streets (Negen Straatjes) for a spot of retail therapy in the hip and trendy stores. The city is best explored on foot or by hiring a bicycle.

From Amsterdam to Bruges

Brussels, belgium.

Bruxelles-Midi

If you’ve got just a short time in Belgium, then the medieval town of Bruges should be your main focus. The location of movie hit, In Bruges, the city is every bit as enchanting as it appeared on screen, minus all the drama that unfolded, of course! Ascend the 366 steps of the Belfry – the medieval bell tower – an iconic symbol of the city.

The well-preserved centre of Bruges is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s easy to see why, once you take a stroll through quaint narrow lanes and alongside romantic waterways. Once you’ve seen all there is to see, reward yourself with a Belgian beer on a sunny terrace or stop off to buy some hand-made Belgian chocolates to take back with you.

Experience this itinerary with the Eurail Global Pass

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An intricate jigsaw of landscapes, cultures, histories, art, architecture and cuisines, Western Europe retains time-honoured traditions while constantly evolving to incorporate inspired new trends.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Van Gogh Museum

This wonderful museum traces Van Gogh's life and artistic development via the world's largest collection of his work. More than 200 canvases are on…

Windsor Castle

Windsor & Eton

The world’s largest and oldest continuously occupied fortress, Windsor Castle is a majestic vision of battlements and towers. Used for state occasions, it…

County Meath

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Attracting over 12 million visitors per year, Amsterdam’s favorite playground is the green expanse of Vondelpark, with its 116 acres (47 hectares) of…

Cité de l’Espace

The fantastic space museum on the city's eastern outskirts brings Toulouse's illustrious aeronautical history to life through hands-on exhibits, including…

Anne Frank Huis

Western Canal Ring

Visiting the Anne Frank Huis is one of Amsterdam's most profound experiences. Tragically, of the 107,000 Jewish adults and children deported from the…

Westminster Abbey

The West End

A splendid mixture of architectural styles, Westminster Abbey is considered the finest example of Early English Gothic. It's not merely a beautiful place…

Rijksmuseum

The Netherlands’ top treasure house, the Rijksmuseum (pronounced ‘rikes’), is among the world's finest art museums. With over 1.5km of galleries, it packs…

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Western Europe and beyond

Western Europe Travel Guide

Travelling through Western Europe is often what springs to mind when would-be visitors dream of a European holiday. Whether it be snacking on croissants in Paris, trekking in the Swiss Alps or taking in the tulips and canals in Amsterdam, there is so much to see and do in Western Europe.

Though it can be a broad designation and region, this Western Europe travel guide will help you plan a trip to a wide array of nations and, hopefully, have you booking a flight for a dream European adventure in no time!

Table of Contents

Western Europe Countries

The term “Western Europe” can be a bit ambiguous and somewhat loaded as it can hypothetically comprise a wide array of countries depending on who is doing the classifying. For the purposes of this Western Europe travel guide, we are concentrating on the countries of Belgium, France, Germany, Netherlands and Switzerland.

For information about countries such as Portugal, Greece, Spain & Italy, please visit our Southern Europe page.

For information about countries such as Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland and Iceland, visit our Nordics page .

If you already know where you want to visit in this incredible region, then make sure to browse our country-specific articles and guides.

Places to Visit in Western Europe

With so many countries comprising this region, there are countless amazing places to visit in Central Europe. No matter what kind of holiday you’re after – whether you’re looking to lounge on a beach, learn about history or hit the ski slopes – there is something for everyone here.

From famous, historic and international cities like Paris and Amsterdam to swoon-worthy cuisine to history spanning centuries, France, Belgium, Switzerland, Germany and the Netherlands are fascinating destinations that won’t soon be forgotten.

As one of Europe’s most visited countries, the nation of France is really a wonderful destination to visit. There is so much more to this beautiful country than the cosmopolitan streets of Paris or the beaches of the Riviera and a trip here isn’t one that is soon to be forgotten.

If you’re planning a trip to France, make sure to have a look at the articles below to map out the ideal holiday for you and your travel style.

The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in Nice Itinerary

The Ultimate 5 to 7 Days in the French Riviera Itinerary

The Ultimate 4 to 5 Days in Paris Itinerary

The Perfect 5 to 7 Days in Provence Itinerary

The Perfect 3, 4 or 5-Day Brittany Road Trip Itinerary

The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in Champagne Itinerary

Steeped with history, modern Germany is a dynamic and interesting European destination that has something new around every corner. From ultra-cool and gritty Berlin to the depths of the Black Forest to the beer halls of Munich, Germany is an excellent destination that is so worth taking the time to explore.

If you’re heading to Germany on your Western European adventure, make sure to have a look at the guides below to help point you in the right direction.

The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in Hamburg Itinerary

The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in Frankfurt Itinerary

The Perfect 1 to 2 Days in Cologne Itinerary

How Many Days in Berlin? Planning a 2, 3 or 4-Day Itinerary

The Perfect 3-Day Black Forest Itinerary

The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in Munich Itinerary

Switzerland

Though geographically small in size, the nation of Switzerland really has a lot of diversity and interesting places to visit. From exciting, metropolitan and international cities like Zurich and Geneva to gorgeous Alpine getaways like Interlaken and Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland is absolutely gorgeous and a true joy to visit.

For those who have a Swiss adventure in the cards, make sure to browse the articles below to make your travel planning a breeze.

The Perfect 1, 2 or 3 Days in Interlaken Itinerary

The Perfect 2 or 3 Days in Zurich Itinerary

Is Switzerland Expensive? A Trip Cost Guide for 2024

The Perfect Weekend in Geneva: A 2-Day Itinerary

Geneva vs Zurich: Which Swiss City to Visit?

The Ultimate 7 to 10 Days in Switzerland Itinerary

Known for beer, chocolate and frites , Belgium is an interesting and historic place to visit that is a fantastic addition to any trip through Western Europe.

Whether you want to explore the EU capital of Brussels, party into the wee hours of the night in Antwerp or get lost on the cobbled streets and canals of Bruges, Belgium is truly a delight to visit. Have a look at the articles below to ensure you don’t miss a thing while travelling through Belgium.

The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in Bruges Itinerary

One Day in Ghent Itinerary: A Day Trip from Brussels

The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in Brussels Itinerary

The Perfect 5 to 7 Days in Belgium Itinerary

The Perfect 1, 2 or 3 Days in Antwerp Itinerary

One Day in Luxembourg Itinerary: A Day Trip from Brussels

Netherlands

Famous for tulips, canals and coffee shops, the Netherlands is more than just the bicycle-laden streets of Amsterdam. Wherever you’re interested in visiting in this small but fascinating nation, you’re sure to fall in love with the Dutch history and lifestyle.

If you’re planning to visit the Netherlands – whether as a city break or as a longer trip – then have a look at the articles below to make you’re planning just a bit easier.

One Day in Utrecht Itinerary: A Day Trip from Amsterdam

Is Amsterdam Expensive? An Amsterdam Trip Cost Guide

The Perfect 4 to 5 Days in Amsterdam Itinerary

Western Europe has so many dynamic and diverse places to visit that planning a trip to this area of the continent can be seriously overwhelming. Whether you’re planning a whirlwind tour through the major capital cities or have a long, leisurely time to dig deep and explore far-flung areas, hopefully, this Western Europe travel guide will help you along your journey.

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10  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $4,025

Central Europe is imbued with stunning history, landscapes, and legends, and this 10-day tour of the Czech Republic and Germany has been handcrafted to immerse you in all of it. As you make your way from Prague to Nuremberg and Berlin, you will enjoy a blend of leisure and guided explorations that will ensure a relaxing and adventurous exploration of each region.

14  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $4,783

Dream of Europe and so many of the iconic experiences are found on this first-timers tour to Spain, France, and Italy. Visit Gaudi’s Barcelona, Michelangelo’s Florence, El Greco’s Toledo, the canals of Venice. Walk along the Parisian neighborhoods, eat tapas in Madrid plazas, and learn about history in Ancient Rome and Vatican City. Handcrafted to minimize travel time and maximize time spent in legendary destinations, this luxury tour shows you the sights and immerses you in all the ambiance.

17  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $6,846

When you look back on your introduction to Europe tour, you will take out photos filled with panoramic views, sensational monuments, and energetic smiles. You see yourself standing in a verdant field beneath a looming alpine summit. The Spanish Steps in Rome glow with marble elegance. Eltz Castle peeks out of the encompassing forest with storybook character. Your custom tailored tour creates a collage of Europe, where you discover the majesty of landscapes and cityscapes connecting various countries and simultaneously setting each city apart. When you look back on your vacation, you will find more than photos, but experiences across the continent.

Dynamic pricing from  $5,007

This 13-night tour of France, Italy, and Greece embodies the spirit, passion, beauty, and love of these iconic European gems. Sample the charms of exclusivity and experience the allure of secret hideaways on the Mediterranean Sea. Indulge in the sweet confections of Paris under the cloak of its incredible architecture and be seduced by Rome’s cobblestone streets and delicious cuisine.

9  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $3,064

Your custom family vacation to Central Europe takes your family through the storybook villages and majestic landscapes from Prague to Vienna, where fairy tales were created, castles are real, and the majesty of daily life continues to grow. You feel the soft dough between your fingers, before twisting it into a pretzel and placing it on a sheet. The cave walls around you are covered in ice, and it looks like you have stepped inside a glacier.  The kids marvel at the grand armory decorating historic castles and highlighting the medieval history of the encompassing mountains.

12  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $4,867

Your 12-day custom-tailored European tour of the battlefields of England, France, Belgium, and the Netherlands takes you to poignant memorials and powerful museums, each offering a unique telling of the conflicts that changed the world. With time, the picturesque cities and perfect landscapes of Western Europe have returned after the culturally impactful and unforgettable battles of World War I and World War II.

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Dynamic pricing from  $5,147

Your two weeks Europe tour is hand-tailored to discover the luxuries and splendors of your dreams. Journey from Paris to Munich to Rome, where you can determine the true highlights of a city, whether it’s the Louvre, the glockenspiel, or a basilica. Savor the taste of morning espresso, a Mediterranean beach, and the traditions of the Alps or simply bask in the lights of the Eiffel Tower illuminating Paris.

Dynamic pricing from  $3,355

A rich heritage with vibrant contemporary culture is found across Central Europe. Some stories are vivid and easily discovered as you explore cities and palaces from forgotten times. Others are hidden, but will be uncovered alongside your private guide and through immersive experiences. On this 10-day trip across Europe, you will find centuries of enthralling history as you explore three countries and five cities. Warsaw is wonderfully cultural, Krakow is pure charm, Prague brings artistic indulgence, Dresden brings a complicated legacy, and Berlin brings a new beginning as every city looks to the future while appreciating their pasts.

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Europe Trip Planner

Euroventure specialises in multi-city europe trips – specifically interrail and eurail adventures., check out our resources and tools below to help you plan your european escape.

It can be really overwhelming trying to plan your Europe trip. There are a ton of things to work out, research and eventually book. That’s why we offer as many resources and services as possible. From planning tools and rail trip advice, to fully guided tours , we can help you plan your ultimate Europe trip on your terms.

Use our interactive Europe Trip Planner tool to create your own route.

Use our Europe trip planner map  to create your own self-guided route, including any major European destinations – plus some further afield including Russia and China!

The map tool is interactive and super easy to use; you can make a plan without any obligation to book your trip with us. We’ll then send you over our best ideas for your route, plus a price including all your trains and accommodation. If you like the idea of having your multi-destination trip planned for you, you can book it within minutes! If not, no problem – you can still use the planner.

Not sure which destinations to visit? Get some inspiration with our destination guide !

Planning a trip to Europe but need some inspiration? Take a look at our self-guided itineraries.

Choose the route you like the best, and we’ll plan your Europe trip. You travel on your own, or with friends, but we’ll organise everything and send it all to you in a handy travel pack. We can also book activities, attractions and excursions for you. All you have to arrange is a flight to and from your start/finish point, plus your travel insurance (which you can sort through our partners here ) and spending money. Find out roughly how much spending money to take .

Wherever we can, we use trains to get from A to B. They’re the most sustainable, sociable and convenient way to get around – and we’ve got deals with all the main providers plus a ton of expert knowledge! Read more about  travelling Europe by train  – or check out our comparison of  different ways to travel Europe  for more inspiration. Scroll down for Europe trip itineraries from 1 – 8 weeks or longer!

If you prefer to travel with likeminded backpackers, why not join one of our small group trips across Europe:  Find out more.

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Fully Guided Tours & Trips in Western Europe

Find the right fully guided tour for you in Western Europe. There are 6696 trips to choose from, that range from one day in length, up to 49 days. The month with the most departures is September, making it the most popular time to visit Western Europe.

250+ Fully Guided tour packages in Western Europe with 76,913 reviews

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Enchanted Landscapes

Ok very well thank you

European Highlights

Excellent from start to finish

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

The Great Adventure

I truly enjoyed traveling with the group. Europamundo did a good job facilitating the trip. Though, we did have a little trouble keeping to the itinerary near the end. I would make a few changes to some of the highlighted stops in order to add in a little more free time.

European Colours

The South European Line

We had an amazing tour thanks to our tour leaders Bigornia and Eva. They were very nice, helpful and knowledgeable! Also, kudos to our wonderful drivers who made sure that we arrive safely in our destinations!

• Walking Adventure
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European Discovery (Summer, Start London, Classic, 12 Days)

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

Europe Taster

Excellent thanks tlto Kirstie and CC

European Experience (12 Days)

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Trekking Mont Blanc

Amazing trekking through the alps. It was a challenge so be prepared! Our tour leader Diane was AMAZING. Everything was well organized and ran smoothly. Highly recommend if you like trekking.

The Best of Europe

Overall, had a good time on the tour courtesy of our experienced and friendly tour director Zsolt and highly-skilled driver Antonio. They were both very knowledgeable and friendly, providing many insights into the places we visited and lots of good humour as well. Despite a few unexpected issues during the trip, they worked extremely hard after hours to resolve them and ensure no disruption for the tour group. This was first tour my wife and I have done and we felt it allowed us to see a lot of Europe in a short period of time, with the trade-off being some very early starts and late finishes. To make the most of the tour, to will need to book the optional excursions as probably half the time on location is spent in some form of optional excursion. We found some of the local guides that are required to be used in Italy were not as good at leading the group as the tour director, leading to some confusion at times on the excursions. A few of the hotels felt a bit underwhelming in terms of location, food or broken amenities which could be due to the recent reopening from COVID but given we mostly were exploring throughout the days/evenings, the main issue with this was that some of the breakfasts were a little sparse. Altogether we found the tour quite enjoyable, with highlights for us definitely being Lucerne, Venice and The Isle of Capri. We would consider doing future tours with Cosmos, but given the pace of this tour and the amount of travel involved, we would likely pick shorter regional ones and do a few less of the optional night excursions to allow more time to self-explore.

Vibrant Europe

Scandinavia Explorer

i traveled to Scandinavian countries with Russia on 5th may2017for 15 days.Veena world is tour operator.well organized,beautifully managed,no skipping any mention ittenary,timely food given.i had experienced with Thamos cook, Cox & kings, vacation exatica, i feel ,my opinion Veena world is the best

Trekking Through the Continent with Rome

Play & Pause: Intro to Europe

• €75 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Seven Countries, Venice & Paris

I took a trip with Cosmos for the first time last year. I have never written a review

What people love about Fully Guided Tours in Western Europe

The tour is generally good. I wish though that more time are given to explore major places. Some places can be skipped already since there was nothing much to see.

Eva and Rene were amazing tour guides. Disappointed that we didn't see the Eiffel Tower at night. Several times we were dropped in town at night with not enough time to get a meal before being taken to the hotel. Some hotels were out of town with nothing within walking distance. Thank you to Rene for arranging for a group of us to go to the Moulin Rouge.

Travel Styles

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International Versions

• Deutsch: Geführte Rundreisen in Westeuropa
• Français: Europe de l'Ouest : Circuits entièrement guidés 2024/2025
• Español: Totalmente guidado Circuitos en Europa Occidental
• Nederlands: Volledig begeleid Rondreizen in West-Europa

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

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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Europe is easily the most popular place in the world to visit across multiple generations of travelers. This has to do with the diversity that the continent offers including nature, outdoors, city life, nightlife, culture, food, drink, and history. There’s a little something for everyone in Europe.

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There is a well-beaten trail and this is because there are  cities in Europe  that you simply cannot miss including the likes of London, Paris, Amsterdam, Madrid, Munich and Dublin, to name a few.

We’ve spent more time in Europe than we care to admit, thinking hard on it we’ve taken no less than 10 trips to Europe at the time of publishing this guide.

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Visit the christmas markets.

If you want a unique experience, then you should head to Europe in December. While the Christmas Markets in Germany are the most famous, you can find plenty of  Christmas Markets in Europe  to enjoy. It’s also popular to take a Christmas Markets cruise too.

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The beauty of Greece is understated and planning a  Greek Island hopping itinerary  will put you right into the thick of it. Visit famous places like Santorini, Rhodes,  Lefkada , and Crete while also getting off the beaten path in Samos and Naxos.

DRIVE THE ROMANTIC ROAD

Explore the best that Bavaria, Germany has to offer by  driving the Romantic Road  from Wurzburg to Fussen visiting  Nuremberg  and Rothenburg among others. You’ll uncover castles, medieval villages, towering cathedrals, and beautiful nature.

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There is no shortage of great  things to do in Europe  during your visit and the biggest problem you’ll face is fitting them all into your itinerary.

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DRIVE THE WILD ATLANTIC WAY:   (Ireland) The 2500km Wild Atlantic Way leads you to the very best on the west coast of Ireland. This includes  Killarney , the  Ring of Kerry , the  Skellig Islands , the Dingle Peninsula, Donegal, the Cliffs of Moher,  Galway , the Connemara Peninsula and so much more.

HIKE THE ALTA VIA 1:  (Italy) One of the most famous hikes in Europe takes you along the  Alta Via 1  through the best of the Italian Dolomites. It’s challenging but highly rewarding and the total thru-hike will last around 2 weeks. There are mountain huts to stay in and you’ll meet people from all around the work.

LEARN ABOUT WWII:  From Germany to Poland and reaching from France to the Czech Republic, you won’t be able to escape the WWII history that emanates in Europe. Our advice? Take the time to learn about it, visit the monuments, visit the concentration camps and allow yourself to ponder the realities of that war. It will not be the most glamourous thing you do in Europe and you’ll likely have some uncomfortable moments, but it’s our duty to be educated so history doesn’t repeat itself.

TOUR PARIS:  (France) Developing an obsession with the Eiffel Tower is perfectly acceptable, at least in my eyes. Paris is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, featuring a rich history and a wide variety of districts, each serving up its own unique flare for you to discover.

VISIT LONDON:  (England) Since it was the very first city I ever visited in Europe, London holds a special place in my travel resume. Not only is it a fabulous city, but there are so many things to do there that you could spend a week just scratching the surface. You’ll definitely want to hit the highlights like Buckingham Palace, the Tower Bridge, the Tower of London, Picadilly Circus, Westminster Abbey and Big Ben, to name a few, during your visit.

DRIVE THE NE250 IN SCOTLAND:  Uncover the whiskey and castle route of Scotland on the  NE250 drive  that starts and ends in  Aberdeen . This route exposes not only the classic Scottish countryside you yearn for but also the history of the nation. You’ll see coastal villages, Highland Coos, warm up in pubs, come across castles, hike in the Cairngorms and much more on this fascinating route.

TAKE AN EXPEDITION CRUISE IN NORWAY:  This is easily one of the most stunning countries in Europe and much of the beauty can be found along the coastline. This means that taking a  cruise in Norway  will give you access to towering fjords, glaciers, islands, fishing villages and coastal cities. Since the topography of the country can take hours to navigate by land, sailing will give you the most bang for your buck if you’re short on time.

SAIL FROM ST PETERSBURG TO MOSCOW:  While it’s overlooked by most, you can take a  river cruise along the Volga River  between Moscow and St Petersburg. The route takes roughly 2 weeks and visits places you wouldn’t be able to access otherwise, such as Kizhi Island.

TAKE THE TRAIN AROUND ITALY:  This is a country that is incredible to explore by train as even the smallest of villages are connected to the train network. This means you can hit all the iconic sites but also get off the beaten path and uncover the heart of Italy. Popular routes start in Venice and end in Rome, taking in Tuscany, Cinque Terre, Assisi, the Italian Riviera and more.

DRIVE THE RING ROAD IN ICELAND:  Even if you’re short on time when you visit Iceland, this road trip that follows the coastal ring around the country will be time well spent in the country. You’ll see many of the best natural sites on your own schedule. Starting and ending in  Reykjavik , you’ll tour the  Golden Circle  before heading to  Iceland’s south coast  and then onwards.

EUROPE FESTIVALS

CHRISTMAS MARKETS:  Europe hosts excellent Christmas markets, and in most major cities across the continent, you’ll find vibrant markets brightening up the winter months with local food and drink and wonderful festive shopping opportunities.

NEW YEAR:  Europe goes wild for the New Year, and in the capitals and cities, you can find huge celebrations and endless parties on 31st December, that carry on well into the next day.

SUMMER FESTIVALS:  When the sun comes out, Europe loves to enjoy itself and when summer comes around you can rest assured that everywhere across the continent there will be summer festivals and celebrations. These range from music festivals to traditional celebrations of the summer solstice.

OKTOBERFEST:  Taking place in Munich, Germany every year from mid-September to the first Sunday in October, this festival is the world’s largest Volksfest. More than 6 million people from around the world attend this event every year.

PLAN THE ULTIMATE ITALY ITINERARY!

Popular regions in europe, western europe.

Western Europe is a loose term used to define many of the countries in the western sphere of the continent. There is a wide range of places to visit, including  Germany , France, Belgium, Netherlands,  Luxembourg, and Switzerland. This is modern Europe at its best, the heart of the EU, and cultural malaise of languages, history, and food. Cities you shouldn’t miss include  Berlin ,  Munich ,  Paris ,  Amsterdam ,  Brussels ,  Luxembourg City , and Zurich.

BRITISH ISLES

The British Isles is one of the best places to travel in Europe, with a diversity of landscapes and destinations to explore. This region includes Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and England. You have classic cities such as  London  and Edinburgh to visit, but also rolling English countryside and dramatic  Scottish highlands . Travel to the remote islands off the coast of Scotland for a real adventure, or explore the rugged terrain of Wales if you want an outdoor adventure. In  Ireland , you can drink Guinness in  Dublin  and traverse the Wild Atlantic Way before heading north to see the astounding Giants Causeway in  Northern Ireland .

The Nordics are comprised of Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland, and  Iceland . These are some of the most modern and liberal countries in the world, and you can explore such cities as  Bergen ,  Stockholm ,  Helsinki ,  Reykjavik  and  Copenhagen  while immersing yourself in wonderful culture and heritage. Heading further to the north you can see a remote side of Europe too, as you near the Arctic in places like the  Lofoten Islands ,  Tromso ,  Nordkapp , and Svalbard you’ll feel as if you’ve left the European continent completely. There’s stunning nature in the Nordic countries and you can see the Northern Lights in many destinations. 

CENTRAL EUROPE

Central Europe is where east meets west. Comprising the central nation-states of Austria, Hungary, Slovakia, Poland, and the Czech Republic, amongst others, this is where the intertwined linguistic and cultural boundaries of Europe really begin to reveal themselves. Cruise along the River Danube, marvel at the glory of Vienna and  Budapest , drink beer in  Prague , and unravel the intriguing communist pasts of  Krakow  and  Warsaw .

IBERIAN PENINSULA

The Iberian Peninsula, comprised of Spain and Portugal, is a wonderful place to explore and it’s surprisingly diverse too. You have the Meditteranean coastline featuring places like  Mallorca  and  Ibiza , and iconic cities such as  Barcelona  to visit. Heading inland the Spanish capital of  Madrid  and  Seville  are timeless destinations. Alternatively, you can explore the Atlantic coastline of Portugal with a stop in  Lisbon  or northern Spain, uncovering different cultures and cuisines in this beautiful part of Europe as you go.

The Baltics, namely, Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia are found on the edge of the Baltic Sea. With charming old towns and intriguing regional identities, these small countries on the fringe of Europe are slowly becoming more popular. The main cities of Riga, Tallinn, and Vilnius offer experiences that differ greatly from the most iconic cities you’ll find in other parts of Europe. You’ll sample hearty Baltic food, visit the many museums dedicated to the Russian and German ‘Occupations’ through the region’s history and enjoy the energetic vibes on nights out. This region also offers some great hiking and wildlife too.

EASTERN EUROPE

Eastern Europe is one of the most fascinating areas to travel in Europe. A vast region that includes the likes of Ukraine, Belarus, and mighty Russia, this is a part of Europe that can be difficult to travel around if you have no knowledge of Russian. It can be a cultural shock, but also an incredible experience. You’ll explore the intriguing cities of  St Petersburg  and  Moscow . It’s also possible to take a  river cruise through Russia  too. 

ITALIAN PENINSULA

Italy  needs little introduction when it comes to travel in Europe. Visit the ancient ruins of  Rome , ponder nature’s power in  Pompeii , explore the Renaissance city of  Florence , take a  road trip around Tuscany , and shop and dine in cosmopolitan Milan. There are beaches to lounge on, the waterways of  Venice  to cruise along, not to mention wineries and eateries galore to visit. If you seek something less iconic during your trip to Italy, head north into the  Dolomites  for some hiking or get off the beaten path in  Commachio .

After years of war following the breakup of Yugoslavia in the 1990s, the Balkans are very much open for tourism again and are one of the most beautiful and affordable places to visit in Europe. Travel along the spectacular coastlines of Croatia visiting places like  Split  and  Dubrovnik , discover  Montenegro  and Albania, uncover the horrendous recent history of Bosnia and get off the beaten track in Serbia, Kosovo, Macedonia, or Bulgaria.

GREECE & TURKEY

Facing each other across the Aegean Sea, Greece and  Turkey  have an intertwined history and culture that neither country cares to admit to. Both are similar, yet both are incredibly different. Visit the  Greek Islands  for a classic getaway in the sun and explore the coastline of  Turkey  for dramatic scenery. Both countries offer ancient history and archaeological ruins. Don’t miss places like  Istanbul ,  Ephesus ,  Cappadocia , and  Pamukkale  when you visit Turkey. 

EUROPE TRAVEL BUDGET

Setting a budget for travel to Europe is highly dependent on your travel style. It is possible to visit just about anywhere across the continent on any budget and still have a great trip. That said, you can make your trip as basic or as luxurious as you desire.

To help you set your budget, we’ve included some base range price estimations for Europe travel. Of course, keep in mind that prices can fluctuate based on seasons, availability and festivals.

If you’re looking to travel on a budget, be sure to check out the  10 Cheapest Places to Travel in Europe  before you start planning.

ACCOMMODATION:  Varies by type and rating. Generally, you can expect  hostels to be between 10 to 30 Euros per night,  mid-range hotels  from 50 to 100 Euros per night and  luxury hotels  to be from 100 Euros per night.

ATTRACTIONS : Costs can vary immensely depending on the country. Western Europe and Nordic countries will charge more for museum entrance and activities, while in the Balkans or Eastern Europe things are much, much cheaper comparatively.

TRANSPORTATION:  The most popular method of travel around Europe is by train, bus or rental car. The  intercity buses  start at 20 Euro.  Car rental  varies by length of time and generally average around 15 Euro per day for a compact. Taking  flights withing the EU  will vary depending on route, but tend to be around 50 Euro and up (Barcelona to London).

FOOD:  Food will vary widely depending on your tastes and what restaurants you choose to visit on your trip. Generally, though, you can expect to find  fast food  for around 5 to 15 Euro per meal, take a meal in a  mid-range restaurant  for 10 to 25 Euro per person and pay around 5 Euro for a  beer .

50 EURO PER DAY

Sticking to cheaper countries like the Balkans or Eastern Europe. Staying in Hostels, eating fast food and only paying for a few activities.

100 EURO PER DAY

Staying in hotels or guesthouses in Western or Northern Europe. Traveling by train or flying, eating at restaurants & enjoying some tours.

200 EURO + PER DAY

Staying in four or five-star hotels, eating at restaurants every day, renting a car and enjoying plenty of tours and activities.

WHERE TO STAY IN EUROPE

Below you will find some of the places we have stayed during our travels in Europe. These are in-depth guides to cities and properties that we enjoyed and would recommend to other travelers.

HOW TO GET AROUND IN EUROPE

There are a few ways to get around Europe during a visit, including bus, train, car, cruises, ferries and flights. Despite most of the countries being small, there is a surprising number of ways to move around.

TRAIN:  Train travel in Europe  is a classic way to journey around the continent, and while the glory days of rail travel may be over, you can still reach almost any European city on the rail network. Fares and standards vary from region to region, with fast intercity trains in Western Europe, but slower, Soviet-era trains in places like Ukraine. If you are up for a real adventure, then you can even travel from Europe all the way  across to Asia  by train on the Trans-Siberian, or from Western Europe across the continent to Istanbul, in Turkey. The options are vast and varied. Booking systems also vary massively from country to country, and you’ll need to check up on fares for each destination you might be visiting.

BUS:  Europe is well connected by bus, and you will find both short and long-distance bus routes both domestically and internationally. Many fares are cheaper if booked in advance.  FlixBus  has the most comprehensive European travel, with modern coaches and online booking. In Eastern Europe, bus travel may be more rustic, and less scheduled.

CAR RENTAL:  If you rent a car, then you will have much more freedom to travel, and in many cases, it can be just as cost-effective as public transport. Europe, aside from the UK and Ireland, all drive on the right. You’ll need to also check if you can take your rental car over international borders. Check out  Discover Rental Cars  for great deals.

FLIGHTS:  Thanks to budget airlines like Ryan Air and Easy Jet, Europe is incredibly well served by low-cost carriers offering regular flights and cheap fares. Major cities, and increasingly, many more regional airports, have connections between one another. In most cases – particularly over longer distances – flying is cheaper than taking the train or bus.

CRUISES:   Europe River cruises  are a popular way to experience many cities while not having to change hotels during your tour. An expansive collection of river cruise boats, at all price points, prowl the waters of every major river on the continent. Some of the most popular include the Danube and Rhine while lesser-known rivers, like an  Elbe River cruise , can offer a more intimate experience.

FERRIES:  There are many ferry connections in Europe, from crossing the English Channel, traveling from  Stockholm to Helsinki  and island hopping around Greece. There are also plenty of boats that ply the major European rivers, particularly the Danube.

TOP EUROPE TOURS

Rome to budapest explorer.

23 Days Rome to Budapest Visits: Austria, Hungary, Italy and Slovenia

EXPLORE CENTRAL EUROPE

9 Days Berlin to Budapest Visits: Germany, Austria, Czech Republic & Hungary

BALTIC ADVENTURE

13 Days Vilnius to Helsinki Visits: Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia & Finland

WHEN TO VISIT EUROPE

Europe has a generally temperate climate, with colder weather in the north and a warm Mediterranean climate in the south. Travelers flock to the European continent year-round but there are very distinct high and low seasons across the continent.

The most popular time to travel in Europe is most definitely  summer . This is when the weather is at its best, but it’s also when popular destinations are at their most crowded. It is not uncommon to find the most popular cities so packed with tourists during these months that you can hardly move. Don’t say we didn’t warn you, summer will give you the best weather but it will be packed.

If you’re planning a summer trip, be sure to check out our  Practical Summer in Europe Packing List .

Traveling in the shoulder seasons, either in  spring or fall,  will be quieter than peak season. But we won’t sugar coat it for you, this secret is out there and to be honest, we find Europe in the shoulder season to be just as busy as summer now.

Winter  brings with it the cold and thus fewer crowds. The exception to this is December when you’re looking at the peak holiday season. Christmas Markets pop up all across Europe during this month and with it brings the crowds. If you’re looking for a true off-season experience, plan your visit between January and April.

If you are heading to northern Europe, then unless you want to see the Northern Lights, it’s best to avoid the cold, dark winters. In the southern areas, you can find pleasant getaways in winter, on the Greek Islands or in the Canaries where the weather will still be relatively warm.

For more in-depth information, check out  When is the Best Time to Visit Europe?

PACK LIKE A PRO ON YOUR NEXT EUROPE TRIP!

Safety in europe.

When you travel to Europe, the safety and security situation can vary depending on the country or even just the city you are in.

In very popular tourist destinations, you need to be aware of pickpocketing and theft, which can be a common occurrence (Barcelona for instance, is notorious for the pickpockets and bag snatchers on the metro and on the streets).

Petty scams in major tourist cities are also an annoyance, and in cities such as Budapest you can easily find yourself in an unlicensed taxi, being charged through the roof, or in Prague, there is a proliferation of unofficial money exchangers looking to swindle tourists.

Terrorism in Europe is always a possibility, but you are highly unlikely to be caught up in an attack, while natural disasters are thankfully, very rare in Europe.

As with any destination, we recommend learning and adhering to certain safety practices when you travel. Be sure to read our personal  travel safety tips , compiled from our travels across 7 continents.

EUROPE TRAVEL: BOOKING RESOURCES

Europe travel guide: related articles.

Looking for more info? Check out all the articles we’ve written on travel to Europe and start planning your dream trip.

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2 Weeks in Europe: 6 Itineraries

DISCLAIMER: This post might have links to travel services and products that we enjoy. We might make a commission from it at no extra cost to you.

Europe is a continent consisting of 44 countries with diverse languages, climates, and cultures . It has numerous world-famous landmarks preserved from years upon years of history.

Spending 2 weeks in Europe will cover plenty of amazing places. It’s not much, but a good start, especially if it’s your first time here.bulga

Another great thing about Europe is that the places are close to each other, you can reach most of them via train, buses, and driving. Land borders separate the countries. However, many of them practice free movement across borders.

This continent has peninsulas, islands, and varied landforms, as well as seas, lakes, and other bodies of water. There are infinite fascinating places to see, foods to taste, and activities to try out during your 2 weeks in Europe.

TIP : This is a long-form article, I highly recommend you check the Table of Contents below to help you navigate the page easier and faster.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING EUROPE

Before you go book your flight and hotels, take a look at the information below first. It will help you visualise and plan your itinerary better. You can get ideas on when to go, how to travel around, and what to pack.

When is the best time to go to Europe

This depends on what you plan to do. Most people go to Europe during summer, but of course, if you want to ski, come between December and February. I personally love going in spring and summer, during autumn, it’s also very pretty but it rains a lot.

You might want to consider travelling during the off-season because this is when there are fewer travellers and the prices of accommodations and tours aren’t sky-high so you’ll be able to save quite a bit.

Getting around Europe

The best way to get around Europe is to rent a car especially if the country you’re visiting are next to each other or have an open border agreement. It’s cheaper and gives you freedom of your time.

However, if you are crossing countries and they are not next to each other, you are probably better off flying than doing a long drive. Check first if your driver’s license is valid in Europe and check what type of cars each country you are going to have.

For example, Italy, Spain, and France are known for using a stick or manual transmission. While the UK and Ireland drive on the left.

Buses and trains are quite reliable and affordable. But there are also domestic flights which are affordable as long as you don’t pack too much unless you are willing to pay extra.

Language and currency

There are over 24 official languages in Europe. You should be able to get around with English but it’s important to also learn basic words to show respect for each country’s culture and easily communicate with locals.

Luckily though, most countries in Europe use Euro, except in the UK, Nordic countries, and maybe some countries in East Europe. It’s easy to pay with credit cards but carrying cash with you for emergencies is still advisable.

Visa and COVID-19 policy

Each country has different visa rules, however, if your destination is an EU member, they have the same visa policy; 90 days visa-free for visitors with a passport from North America, some Latin America, some Southeast Asia and East Asia, and most Oceania. This also applies to non-EU countries such as Switzerland and Norway.

For visitors with a passport from the EU or a European country, you should have freedom of movement for unlimited time except for some nationalities such as the UK and countries in East Europe.

Europe is open to COVID-1 vaccinated tourists. If you are unvaccinated, best to check if your destination has extra entry requirements. Depending on the airline and destination, you might be required to submit a test before boarding.

Wearing a mask is no longer required in many places in Europe, but it’s smart to carry one just in case you get to countries that still require them. Read about the EU reopening .

What is the average cost for 2 weeks in Europe

As diverse as the European culture is, the cost also varies a lot. The budget for 14 days in Europe depends on a few things such as the countries, type of tours, accommodation, and how you plan to move around.

$800 in Eastern Europe will not work for Scandinavia. $800 is a tight budget, but it might work for more affordable countries such as Eastern Europe or the Baltics (assuming this excludes the flights to the region and back). $1,000 will be fine for southern-east Europe, and $1,500 will be decent for central Europe. While west Europe and the Nordics plan to spend around $3,000.

The accommodation will cost the most expensive, but the food can be budgeted. Then the transportation. You can either use public transport or rent a push bike when moving around the cities. Take the bus or train when travelling to the next country or ride a plane.

Travelling during the peak season will also cost a lot more. Check under each itinerary to see the average cost of a 2-week trip in Europe.

Other basic travel tips

Planning a trip can be exhausting and often overwhelming. To make it a bit easier, I use travel sites and services that have flexible cancellation policies in case I change my mind or my travel dates. Here’s a list of travel tools I use. From flight selections, affordable hotels, wide-range options for car rentals, and even affordable travel insurance.

TOP PLACES IN EUROPE (pinned map)

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

2 WEEKS IN EUROPE ITINERARIES

I will show your six itinerary options to choose from for your 14 days in Europe. Covering multiple countries and featuring famous attractions that are historical, cultural, and outdoor activities.

Deciding where to spend your 2 weeks in Europe can be hard. Should it be in Spain or Portugal? How about both? Should you visit Rome or Paris ? When unsure, there are a few things you can do to see which places are more suitable for you.

For example, Rome would be ideal if you love historical sites such as ruins. Perhaps you like history, but in the form of art, then Paris is the one. For food lovers, don’t miss visiting France, Spain, Italy, and Greece.

Itinerary #1 South Europe: Spain and France or France and Italy

We have two sub-options in our first itinerary for your 2 weeks in Europe. This includes either Spain and France or France and Italy. Spain is well-known for its lively culture, flamenco, arts, and literature, as well as its wines, beaches, and, of course, football.

If you feel like this itinerary is a little too expensive, you can instead go to Portugal. Take a look at how to spend 2 weeks in Portuga l or even just a few days in Lisbon. Spending 14 days in Southern Europe is a good place to do your first trip to this continent.

France, on the other hand, is well-known for macarons, wine, champagne, great pastries, as well as fashion, museums, and other historical sites. You could also do many water activities in France or if you plan to come during winter, you can head to the Alps for some skiing.

Italy is loved for its opera, its art cities, unique scenery, and good food. They are also among the four fashion capitals, with luxury brands, and of course, who could forget the Vespa?

If you have never been to Italy, make sure you visit Venice, Rome, Florence, and the southwest coast, where you can visit Naples for Amalfi and Sorrento. You can also consider 2 weeks in Greece for this itinerary. Not to mention, the south is a famous region to spend honeymoon in Europe .

Spain for 7 days

Spain is one of the most popular destinations in Europe, not only for foreign visitors but also for other European nations. With its stunning beaches, yummy food, and very welcoming culture, Spain is undeniably a must-visit when you come to Europe for 2 weeks.

Most people go to Madrid, the capital of Barcelona, a coastal city. However, if you want to get away from big crowds, head to Seville, Valencia, or even Zaragoza. For young travellers who love to dance and party, Ibiza is a top spot, while Palma, Tenerife, and Gran Canaria are awesome islands to explore and spend your vacation in.

We have a specific 2 weeks in Spain itinerary , which might help you plan a trip there if you decide to spend your trip in one European country only.

Here are some of the top-rated attractions in Spain :

• Alhambra and Generalife in Granada
• Palacio Real in Madrid – get your ticket in advance
• El Escorial near Madrid
• Aqueduct of Segovia – north of Madrid
• Sagrada Familia and Gaudi Sites in Barcelona – check tour prices
• Great Mosque in Cordoba, near Seville
• Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao
• Beaches of Gran Canaria

France for 7 days

Some of the options to reach France from Spain include flying, taking a train, riding the bus, using rideshare or driving. The most recommended option is to ride a plane, but if you have plenty of time, you should consider renting a car and driving on your own. We have an article with 3 different itineraries on how to spend 2 weeks in France .

France is a country famous for many reasons. The food is great, it is rich in culture, the abundance of historical sites, and thousands of wineries to explore. France is also known for Tour de France and is a great holiday destination any time of the year. You should geat a hop-on hop-off bu s that will take you to the top attractions of Paris.

Paris is an obvious place to visit, but if you don’t like big cities or have been here before, you can consider other places. For history buffs, head to Calais, Dunkirk, and Normandy. For those who love the outdoors, check out Lyon, Marseille, Nice, and Bordeaux (aka the Basque region).

Here are some of the top attractions n France:

• The Louvre in Paris – book a guided tour
• Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Chartres near Paris
• Eiffel Tower in Paris – get your skip-the-line ticket in advance
• Chateau de Versailles in Paris – visit with a garden access
• Mont Saint Michel
• Loire Valley Chateaux
• Côte d’Azur aka French Riviera in the South
• Provence for lavender fields
• Chamonix-Mont-Blanc for skiing in the Alps

Italy for 7 days

To reach Italy from France, you could either take the train or fly but taking the train is preferred by most tourists and locals alike because you’ll be able to reach your destination in less than five hours anyway. There are tons of routes to choose from if you want to see some interesting scenery and plan to drive instead.

2 weeks in Europe have to include Italy. It is loved for its dishes to die for, beautiful castles, amazing hiking trails, and warm culture. Just like in Spain and France, wine in Italy is world-class and their historical sites are well preserved.

Before you book anything, decide where you want to go. Rome and Venice are the top places to visit in Italy. But if you have been there, it’s time to explore Florence, Milan, Bologna, and Genoa in the north. For the south, head to Naples, Sicily, and all the way to Palermo. Check out our 4 itineraries for 2 weeks in Italy .

Some of the top tourist attractions in Italy include :

• Colosseum in Rome – get your ticket in advance to skip the very long queue
• Spanish Steps in Rome
• Trevi Fountain in Rome
• Venice Grand Canal – don’t skip the romantic gondola ride
• Gode Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica in Venice – explore with a tour guide and secure a ticket
• Leaning Tower of Pisa
• Vatican City near Rome; Basilica of St. Peter, Sistine Chapel & Vatican Museums – you can visit this in one go
• The Uffizi Gallery in Florence
• Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore in Florence
• Lake Como near Milan
• Cinque Terre
• Amalfi Coast
• Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius in Naples – visit this and the entirety of Naples on a day trip from Rome

Travel cost

These three destinations are one of the most expensive places in Europe. Budget around $2,000 for a 2-week trip around Spain, France, and Italy not including the flights from your location and back. Accommodation will be the most expensive cost while food is quite affordable in these places.

Of course, if you want to travel with luxury, you can easily spend $3,000-$5,000 which will allow you to stay at 4-5 star hotels, dine at fancy restaurants, and take a private car with a driver anywhere.

For those on a tight budget, $1,500 is possible , however, you will likely stay at youth hostels and share a room with other people in dorm/bunk rooms or even look at Couchsurfing. You can also save more money by looking at ready-to-eat meals at grocery stores or cooking in the hostel is possible. Join a free walking tour where you will be expected to give a tip based on the tour guide and the tour itself.

Itinerary #2 Central Europe: Germany and Poland

For this next itinerary, we’ll be covering 2 weeks in Central Europe, which consists of the countries Germany, Poland, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Austria, Czechia, Slovakia, and Hungary. However, in this itinerary, we’ll only be covering Germany and Poland.

Germany is well-known for its cathedrals, castles, palaces, and colourful architecture, as well as its sausages and beers. It has many historical sites relating to World War I and II. Berlin is loved for being vegan-friendly, but meat-eaters shouldn’t have a problem finding their way around restaurants either.

Conversely, Poland is famous for its food, stunning geography, folklore, history, and friendly locals. In Poland, you’ll find Europe’s most ancient forest, Medieval Castle, the infamous Auschwitz-Birkenau Camp, amazing museums, and more.

Apart from that, you can also visit theme parks in Poland, such as Engerylandia Theme Park, Rabkoland, and Aquapark Sopot.

Germany for 8 days

Germany has so many things to offer that it would take 8 days to satiate your curiosity, and even then, you would barely scratch the surface. Don’t overwhelm yourself trying to see everything in 8 days. If you want t visit Germany only, we have these 2 weeks in Germany itineraries .

Most people will go to Berlin or Munich, but there are also other cities such as Hamburg, Frankfurt, Nuremberg and Cologne to name a few. I highly recommend you rent a car to move around easier, but taking a domestic flight or the train is also easy and affordable.

If you’re going to Berlin, the best way to see all the top attractions is by buying a hop-on hop-off bus with live a tour guide .

Here’s a list of the top attractions in Germany:

• Brandenburg Gate in Berlin
• Berlin Wall
• Cruise the River Spree – book a 2.5-hour boat tour
• Museum Island in Berlin
• Sachsenhausen Memorial – visit with a tour guide
• Neuschwanstein Castle near Munich
• Linderhof Palace near Munich – book a combo tour with Neuschwanstein Castle
• Marienplatz in Munich
• Pay respects at Dachau Concentration Camp – join a tour from Munich
• Kölner Dom in Cologne
• The Black Forest, Baden-Württemberg, near Stuttgart
• Miniatur Wunderland at Port of Hamburg
• Bamberg and the Bürgerstadt near Nuremberg

Poland for 8 days

There are tons of modes of transportation from Germany to Poland, including boarding a plane, using rideshare cars, trains, buses, or driving. Flights between these two countries are frequent and affordable.

Poland has a dark history, but the country is more than that. It has stunning lakes, UNESCO sites, and rather interesting cuisine, and it is in the top 20 safest countries in the world – a great place to discover if you are travelling alone.

Poland also has the biggest castle in the world, and many believe that vodka originated in Poland. In winter, you can ski in Poland, which is more affordable than France, Switzerland, and even Italy.

Many foreigners get confused and think Krakow is the capital of Piland, but it’s actually Warsaw. Apart from these two cities, you can also visit Gdansk, Wroclaw, Katowice, and Lublin. Most of the cities are connected via buses and trains hence moving around during your 2 weeks in Europe shouldn’t be a problem.

>>TIP: Check out our 2 weeks in Poland post if you prefer to explore that country on a single trip. There are two itineraries to choose from.

Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Poland:

• Wieliczka Salt Mine near Krakow
• Auschwitz- Birkenau Camps near Krakow – book a guided tour or combine it with the Wieliczka Salt Mine tour
• Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory in Krakow
• Wawel Royal Castle in Krakow
• Warsaw Old Marketplace
• Lazienki Park in Warsaw
• Malbork Castle near Gdansk
• Morskie Oko Lake and Hot Bath Pools near Zakopane – check tour prices
• Crooked Forest near Szczecin

Travel cost:

Central Europe in general can be costly, but only if you plan to visit Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. Poland and Czechia are both affordable destinations compared to their neighbouring countries. $2,000 will take you a long way if you choose one expensive place to spend a week and the other one is a more affordable country (e.g Germany and Poland or Switzerland and Czechia).

You can save even more money if you focus on Poland or Czechia only or book a trip to Switzerland just for 2-3 days instead of an entire week.

$5,000 will be a great budget for a luxury trip . This is suitable for couples who are on their honeymoon or retiree travellers. For young visitors and backpackers, you can probably get away with $1,000 to $1,500 for the 2 weeks trip .

Accommodation in Germany, Switzerland, and Austria is costly but affordable in Poland and Czechia. Rely on using public transportation in all countries, such as buses and trains, instead of renting a car or flying.

Itinerary #3 Baltics: Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia

The Baltics are one of the most affordable regions in Europe. Although it has its fair share of tourists, the streets and attractions don’t get too busy, even during the summer season. It’s an awesome place to spend your 2 weeks in Europe vacation without being surrounded by a big crowd.

Lithuania is famous for its natural scenery, including forests, lakes, flatlands, and other landscapes. There are also historical spots here to visit, and you must try their local ciders. I personally loved their local food, especially beetroot. If you’re a foody, check this Vilnius food guide for a list of must-try dishes.

Conversely, Latvia is known for its UNESCO World Heritage Sites and art nouveau architecture. It’s on the coast, hence if visiting during summer, don’t forget to dip your toes.

Last but definitely not least is Estonia, which is famous for its dense woods, thousands of uninhabited islands, and rich history. It experienced a boom in tourism recently since it implemented a digital nomad visa.

Estonia is among Europe’s most linguistic nations, is one of the countries with the cleanest air in the world, and half of the country is made up of forest, which probably explains the great air quality. We also have two itineraries specifically for 2 weeks in the Baltics only or 2 weeks in Eastern Europe itineraries .

Lithuania for 5 days

Lithuania is rich in cultural preservation, so much so that UNESCO considered their folk dance as one of the intangible cultural heritages. They also have one of the oldest languages, even older than Greek, German, and Celtic, and the oldest tree in Europe could be found here as well.

With five days in Lithuania, you can do and see a lot of things. You can cover at least two major cities; the capital city Vilnius, and the cultural art city of Kaunas. If it’s warm enough, head to the coast and visit Klaipeda.

Here is a list of the best places to see in Lithuania:

• Gediminas Castle Tower in Vilnius
• Vilnius Cathedral Square
• Hot Air Balloon Flight – over Vilnius or Trakai Castle
• Energetikos ir technikos muziejus in Vilnius
• Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights and A.Mickiewicz Memorial Museum in Vilnius
• MO Muziejus in Vilnius
• Gates of Dawn in Vilnius
• Three Crosses Monument in Vilnius – join a full-day tour from Vilnius
• Walk around Uzupis
• Trakai Castle near Vilnius
• Kaunas Castle
• Devils’ Museum in Kaunas
• Hill of Crosses near Šiauliai

Latvia for 4 days

You can go to Latvia from Lithuania by driving, riding a bus, plane, or taking the train. The most recommended option is through riding a bus as it is the cheapest and fastest. Latvia is also a great destination during summer. You can take a swim on its sandy beaches, lakes, and rivers.

You can either spend the entire 4 days in Riga, the capital city or take day trips to see Gauja National Park and Turaida Museum Reserve for example. You can also explore Riga on a segway tour .

Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Latvia :

• House of the Black Heads in Riga – get your ticket in advance
• Riga Cathedral
• Three Brothers, Latvian Museum of Architecture
• St. Peter’s Church
• The Freedom Monument in Riga
• Shop souvenirs at Riga Central Market – join a food-tasting tour
• Gauja National Park outside of Riga
• Rundale Palace and Museum ner Jelgava

Estonia for 4 days

To reach Estonia if you’re coming from Latvia, you could board a plane, ride a bus, take the train, or drive. The most recommended option would be to ride a plane as it’s the fastest, but the cheapest option would be to take the bus.

Estonia is very unique, they have islands but are inhabited – and that makes them interesting to visit. There, you can go fishing, sailing, canoeing, kayaking, and for those who love birds, birdwatching is a popular thing to do in Estonia.

Tallinn, the capital, is obviously the most popular destination. However, with 2 weeks in Europe, around the Baltics, you can also head to Parnu and Tartu – both are located in the south of Estonia. Go to Haeska, Kabili, and Matsalu for birdwatching and wildlife experiences.

Here are some of the sights to see in Estonia :

• Tallinn’s Old Town
• Lennusadam Seaplane Harbor in Tallinn
• Lahemaa National Parl – sign up to a day trip
• Patarei Prison Exhibition/Communism Prison in Tallinn
• Parnu’s Beaches
• Alpakafarm near Parnu
• Estonian National Museum in Tartu
• Tagurpidi Maja (Peapeal OÜ) / Upside Down House in Tartu
• TYPA Letterpress and Paper Art Centre in Tartu
• Kuressaare Castle in Saare
• Join a 3-hour food tour

Travelling around the Baltics is one of my favourite destinations and one I recommend if you’re on a budget. You will still experience the European culture, walk through the alleys and paves with cobbled stone, and eat delicious meals.

It’s honestly possible to travel here for around $1,000 for those on a budget . You will stay in a hostel and consume street food or grocery store meals. The tours also don’t cost that much. Accommodation is around $25 to $35 a night, but transportation is cheap.

$2,000 is the average cost where you get to have a private room and try out a few local restaurants. For a luxury trip, $3,000 will get you very comfortable.

Itinerary #4 East Europe: Hungary and Croatia or Romania and Bulgaria

East Europe is a massive region. You will have to choose 2-3 countries to cover during your visit and perhaps next time, you go to new places. Right now, we’ll only cover 4 destinations for your 12-day in Europe itinerary; Hungary and Croatia or Romania and Bulgaria.

Croatia has so much to offer, but in the last few years, being the filming location of Game of Thrones, this country attracted more tourists. Aside from that, they also have stunning waterfalls and gorgeous Adriatic Islands, among other landscapes.

Hungary on the other hand is famous for its ruin bars, paprikas, and goulash. It also has sought-after outdoor and public thermal bars and great nightlife. Outside the city, Hungary has a lot of nature preserves and can be an affordable ski destination in winter.

Bulgaria is the oldest country in Europe and has tons of hot springs. It’s undeniable how affordable Bulgaria is as a travel destination. It also sits right on the Black Sea, a popular spot during summer.

Nightlife in Bulgaria is another reason tourists come here for its affordability. Speaking of cuisine, the traditional Bulgarian food is something of a must-try.

Romania is famous for its Carpathian Mountains, Salt Mines, and Medieval Fortresses. Just like Bulgaria, it’s also located on the Black Sea. One might want to visit Romania since it’s famous for being the home of Dracula.

Hungary for 7 days

Hungary, like many other European countries, is a landlocked country. But it doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy summer in Hungary. This country has over 1,000 natural springs water, hence, the popularity of its thermal baths.

Budapest is not the only city worth visiting in Hungary, you should also consider Debrecen and Szeged. While Balaton Uplands National Park is the spot to you want to go hiking, join wine tours, and be around nature.

Here are some of the top tourist attractions in this country :

• Hungarian Parliament Building in Budapest
• Budapest’s Széchenyi Thermal Bath – book a full-day spa
• Buda Castle
• Buy souvenirs at Central Market Hall
• Take a boat cruise Danube River in Budapest – check cruise prices
• Matthias Church in Budapest
• Esztergom Basilica
• The Caves of Lillafured near Miskolc
• Lavender field at Tihany

Croatia for 7 days

It is relatively easy to travel to Croatia if you’re coming from Hungary as they are neighbouring countries. You could travel by bus, by train or by driving. Any option is fine, but the cheapest option would be to ride the night bus.

As mentioned before, Croatia is now popular for being the filming location for Game of Thrones, but there are other places to see in this magnificent country. Just like its neighbouring country of Italy, Croatia is also a fantastic beach destination and so much more affordable.

Zagreb is the capital of Croatia and a must-visit, then you can go to the coast. The most popular city is Split and Dubrovnik, but Zadar,  Hvar, and Pula are an equally stunning area for swimming and other water activities.

Want to spend 14 days in Croatia ? Our guide has three itineraries you can check out and see which one suits you best.

Some of the top tourist attractions in this country include :

• Dubrovnik’s Old Town Walls – join a walking tour
• Trsteno Arboretum, Trsteno near Dubrovnik
• Dubrovnik’s Lovrijenac Fort
• Visit Game of Thrones filming locations – book a tour
• Nikola Tesla Technical Museum in Zagreb
• Diocletian’s Palace in Split – enjoy a walking tour with a local guide
• Blue Cave, near Split – book the 5 island boat tour
• Krka Waterfalls, near Split – visit on a boat tour
• Plitvice Lakes National Park near Zadar
• Kornati National Park near Zadar
• Euphrasian Basilica in Porec
• Pula’s Roman Arena
• Swim at Galebove Stijene in Pula
• Explore Brijuni/Brioni National Park near Pula
• Mulini Beach in Rovinj

Romania for 7 days

A massive country in East Europe, Romania has a lot to offer. From national parks, vibrant cities, historical sites, and beach access to the Black Sea. Bucharest is known for great nightlife, but apart from that, it’s also rich in cultural and historical spots.

Other than Bucharest, you have to go to the Transylvanian region, known as the home of Dracula. If it’s warm enough, head to Constanza, while Brasov and Cluj-Napoca are the areas to go to during winter for skiing and other winter activities.

Here are some of the places you could visit once you reached Romania:

• Romanian Athenaeum in Bucharest
• Grigore Antipa National Museum of Natural History in Bucharest
• National Museum of Romanian History in Bucharest
• Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum in Bucharest
• Vaser Valley Forestry Railway
• Bran Castle aka Dracula’s Castle in Transylvania – book a tour combo with Peles and Brasov trip
• Sighisoara Historic Center
• Covered Stairway in Sighisoara
• The Clock Tower in Sighisoara
• The Black Church in Brasov
• Peles Castle near Brasov – book a 2-day tour from Bucharest to visit Brasov, Sibiu, and Sighisoara
• Bucegi Natural Park near Brasoc
• Transylvanian Alps

Bulgaria for 7 days

Just south of Romania, you can reach Bulgaria by train, bus, or driving. The quickest option would be to drive, which would take you more or less five hours, but the cheapest option is by riding a train.

Another country with the best nightlife, Bulgaria is popular with young tourists. But it doesn’t mean non-partygoers cannot enjoy Bulgaria. This country is a great place to explore the outdoors. There are many hiking trails and to ski here, you don’t have to spend too much.

Head to the capital city, Sofia, but for winter sports, you can go to Bansko, Borovets, and Pamporovo. If you are coming during the warm months, you can still go to the Black Sea by heading toward Varna.

Some of the top spots in Bulgaria are:

• National Palace of Culture in Sofia
• Sofia History Museum
• Rila Monastery – visit with combo tour to Boyana Church
• Seven Rila Lakes – check tour price from Sofia
• Tsarevets Fortress in Veliko Tarnovo
• Belogradchik Rocks
• Prohodna Cave in Karlukovo
• Krushuna Waterfalls
• The Rose Valley near Kazanluk
• The Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis in Plovdiv – join a tour of Plovdiv, Asen’s Fortress, and Bachkovo Monastery
• Pirin National Park near Plovdiv
• Thracian Tomb of Sveshtari near Shumen

East Europe is one of the most affordable regions in Europe. The accommodation alone can range between $20-$30 while food and the use of public transportation are also very affordable.

It’s easy to travel on a budget in eastern Europe, around $800 is feasible for backpackers and young travellers. If you want to be comfortable, $1,000 will be great and get you your own private room and dine at restaurants. $2,000 can easily be a luxury trip in this region for a 2-week adventure.

Itinerary #5 Nordic: Iceland, Norway, and Denmark

The next option would be the Nordic countries, which consist of Norway, Iceland, Sweden, Finland, and Denmark. However, in this itinerary, we will only cover Norway, Iceland, and Denmark.

Norway is also known as the Land of the Midnight Sun. It is famous for its fjords, lakes, and magical skies (Aurora Borealis), as well as Viking culture and folklore.

Iceland is also famous for a lot of natural wonders such as geysers, active volcanoes, and glaciers. You could also see the Northern Lights here. Iceland is relying 100% on renewable energy; hydropower, and geothermal.

Last but definitely not least is Denmark, which is well-known for its coastal towns, architecture, Royalty, and cuisine. Copenhagen is a must-visit. If you find yourself with extra time, you can hop on a train and head to Sweden.

Iceland for 4 days

Iceland is the land of fire and ice, and you might be wondering why. They have glaciers but have volcanically heated pools at the same time, where you could swim all year round. That’s pretty fascinating.

Aside from that, it is also a literary-focused country. In fact, one out of ten Icelanders will publish a book even at least once in their lifetime.

Iceland is not a big country, but spending four days here is plenty. Most tourists love staying in Reykjavik, but you don’t have to. If you want to save money, you can stay outside the city and rent a car instead. You can easily move around in your own car, which means it doesn’t matter if your hotel is not in the city.

We have a complete guide and itinerary for 2 weeks in Iceland .

Top attractions in Iceland:

• Drive the Golden Circle
• Blue Lagoon – get your ticket in advance including Kerid Volcanic Crater
• Gullfoss Falls
• Seljalandsfoss
• Silfra – snorkel between 2 tectonic plates between North American and Europe
• Þingvellir National Park
• Jökulsárlón
• Chase the Northern Lights – join a tour to find the best spot
• Icelandic Phallological Museum
• National Museum of Iceland
• Reykjanesfólkvangur
• Whale Watching near Reykjavik – book a cruise
• Eystri-Fellsfjara / Diamond Beach

Norway for 6 days

You will need to ride a plane to reach Norway if you’re coming from Iceland. The fastest route takes more or less 6 hours. However, the journey would be worth it because there are so many sights and sceneries once you reach Norway.

This includes the world’s longest road tunnel and the world’s most remote island, among others. This is also an amazing place to ski during winter.

Many tourists usually go to Oslo and Bergen, but you can also add Stavanger, Kristiansand, and Tromso to your itinerary of 2 weeks in Europe.

If you want to see Fjords, you have to head west; from Trondheim all the way down to Stavanger. Check our 2 weeks in Norway itinerary list if you only want to see this country.

Here is a list of some of the best places to visit in Norway:

• Bygdoy Peninsula in Oslo 
• Vigeland Sculpture Park in Oslo
• Viking Ship Museum in Oslo
• Naeroyfjorden
• Akershus Fortress in Oslo
• Oslo’s Fjords – check tour prices or a cruise to Nærøyfjorden, Flåm, and Stegastein 
• Hanseviertel Bryggen in Bergen
• Sognefjord near Bergen
• Osterrjod and Mostraumen near Bergen – join a cruise
• Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen), in Stavanger
• Lofoten Islands
• Geirangerfjord
• Arctic Museum in Tromso
• Find the Northern Lights from Tromso – book a guided tour
• Atlantic Ocean Road

Denmark for 4 days

To reach Denmark from Norway, the best would be to take a plane. There is also a car ferry service, but with a limited time, it’s not ideal. Denmark has the oldest Monarchy in Europe.

Denmark is a small country but popular not only in Europe but around the world. For many years, it has been voted the happiest country in the world. It’s also known for being safe for tourists, the home birth of lego, and has the oldest monarchy in Europe and the oldest flag in the world.

Naturally, visitors will go to Copenhagen, but since the country (excluding Greenland and the Faroe Islands) is not that big, 4 days in Denmark is plenty

You can explore the entirety of Copenhagen and even have time to go to Odense, where the famous children’s book author Hans Christian Andersen was born. You can actually get to the city centre from Copenhagen airport in just 13 minutes – a great way to save time.

Here is a list of some of the best attractions in Denmark:

• The Little Mermaid (Den Lille Havfrue) – explore Copenhagen in a day
• Freetown Christiania
• The King’s Garden
• Amalienborg
• Rosenborg Castle
• Tivoli Gardens – get your ticket in advance
• Botanical Garden
• The Round Tower
• Memorial Anchor
• Copenhagen Opera House
• Walk around Strøget
• Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek
• Christiansborg Palace
• Danish Architecture Centre
• Ofelia Plads
• Legoland in Billund
• Hans Christian Andersen’s Childhood Home
• H. C. Andersens House

Nordic and Scandinavia is undeniably the most expensive place to travel around Europe. Accommodation alone could run $100, and dining and consuming alcohol are costly as well. But taking the bus and train is a little bearable.

To ensure that you will enjoy your 2 weeks in Europe around this region, plan to spend about $2,000 . If you are on a budget, you can probably do it for $1,700 but no less. But for l uxury, your trip cost will really skyrocket up to $5,000 .

Itinerary #6 West Europe: The UK, Netherlands, and Belgium

The last itinerary option for your 2 weeks in Europe includes the countries the UK, Netherlands, and Belgium, also known as the west of Europe.

The UK is popular for many things, including its monarchy, culture, history, and performers. Being the home of four different countries; England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, you can easily say that it’s worth a visit. From bustling cities, amazing hiking trails, pubs to check out, and castles to explore.

There are tons of iconic places in the Netherlands despite it being a small country. The Netherlands is famous for many things . Here, you’ll be able to see windmills, cheese markets, bulb fields, and earthenware, among others. The Netherlands also have plenty of historical spots to discover including Anne Frank’s House.

The last country on our list is Belgium. They have high-quality chocolates, hence the name Belgian chocolate. This country is also well-known for waffles and beer and is the home to NATO headquarters.

The UK for 6 days

There are many things to see in the UK, and six days is definitely not going to be enough. But don’t panic. If this is your first time here, list the attractions you really want to see first. The world-famous Big Ben, London Eye, and River Thames can all be found here, and that’s just in London.

If you have been here before, perhaps, you can now explore less popular areas. Perhaps, you can focus on hiking instead of being in the city or just spend 14 days in England only, especially if it’s your first time.

It’s undeniable that the UK has the most famous monarchy in the world. London alone has a lot of attractions related to the British Monarchy and historical places. In order to make the most out of your trip, the recommended duration of stay is at least five days.

ALSO READ: 2 weeks in the UK , 2 weeks in England , and 2 weeks in Ireland and Northern Ireland itineraries.

List of some best places to see in the UK :

• Tower Bridge
• Stonehenge – book a combo tour with Windsor Castle and Bath
• Buckingham Palace
• The British Museum
• Tower of London and Crown Jewels Exhibition – buy your ticket in advance
• Kensington Palace
• Madame Tussauds – get your skip-the-line ticket
• Shakespeare’s Globe
• St. Paul’s Cathedral
• Book a Harry Potter tour – Warner Bros. Studio
• Scotney Castle
• Bodiam Castle
• Warwick Castle
• Lake District National Park
• Dean Village
• Edinburgh Castle – book a skip-the-line tour
• Palace of Holyroodhouse
• Loch Ness, Glencoe, and the Scottish Highlands – check the tour price from Edinburgh
• Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park
• Titanic Belfast – join a guided tour
• Crumlin Road Gaol
• Giants Causeway – visit with a stop at Dark Hedges, Dunluce, and Belfast
• Free Derry Corner
• The Derry Walls

The Netherlands for 4 days

You could either ride the train or drive if you want to reach the Netherlands from the UK. Once you reach the Netherlands, you could experience the biggest ice skating tour in the world, or join a cycling tour. You can also know more about world-famous painters like Van Gogh and Rembrandt.

Four days sounds too little but you can actually do a lot while in the Netherlands. You can of course explore Amsterdam, and head to The Hague, Rotterdam, and Groningen.

Some things to see and do in The Netherlands:

• Jordaan and Amsterdam’s Canals – book the famous canal cruise
• Anne Frank House
• Rijksmuseum
• Mauritshuis
• Van Gogh Museum – enjoy with an audio guide
• The Windmills of Kinderdijk
• Hoge Veluwe National Park
• Valkenburg Castle Ruins

Belgium for 4 days

To reach Belgium, you could ride the train, ride a bus, use rideshare, or drive. The cheapest option would be to use rideshare and the most recommended option would be to ride the train. It would take you almost 3 hours to reach your destination.

The popular cities in Belgium are Brussels which is the capital, Ghent, Antwerp, and Bruges. You can take buses, trains, or rent a car to travel between cities. Don’t forget to go try different beers and waffles which are two of my favourite part of my visit.

Popular attractions in Belgium:

• Grand Palace
• Atomium – get your entry ticket in advance
• Sign up for the famous Hungry Mary’s beer and chocolate tour or join chocolate making class
• Manneken Pis
• Day trip to Bruges and Ghent – enjoy with a tour guide
• The Canals of Bruges
• Battlefield in Flanders
• Belfry of Bruges
• Basilica of the Holy Blood
• Bruges Beer Experience
• Sint-Salvatorskathedraal
• Gravensteen
• Museum Aan de Stroom
• The Rubens House

What I enjoy about travelling in western Europe is how it’s honestly a pricey place but it can be done on a budget. If you think you can stay on your feet for long hours and walking around is not a problem, you can easily cut costs by taking the bus or taxi. The accommodation will surely get you, but dining can be affordable.

The street food in all these countries is fun, globally diverse, and easy to find. For budget travellers, $1,700 is required for your 2-week trip and most likely requires you to stay in a youth hostel. $ 2,500 offers comfort and a bit of luxury where you can dine at nice restaurants. $4,000 means you can stay in hotels right downtown and near the top attractions, With this budget, you can even hire taxis during your entire trip.

SUMMARY OF 2 WEEKS IN EUROPE

There are so many countries to choose from if you plan to visit Europe. Fortunately, Europe has amazing transportation between cities and countries, making it easy to travel around even with limited time.

When planning your 14-day itinerary for Europe, don’t try to cram it too much. It’s better to travel a bit slower, see fewer places, but be able to enjoy and process everything you have seen and experienced. Europe is not going anywhere, you can always visit again and check out a new place.

I hope that you found these 2 weeks in Europe itineraries helpful in planning your own.

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