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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 !

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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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europe trip plan

Planning a Trip to Europe: Your 10-Step Guide

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Caroline Costello

Caroline Costello's travel accomplishments include surviving a 2 a.m. whitewater rafting excursion in the Canadian wilderness, successfully biking from Dusseldorf to Cologne without a map, and gaining access to a covert pizza speakeasy in New Orleans.

Caroline is an active member of the Society of American Travel Writers (SATW). Her work has appeared on USA Today , the Boston Globe , AOL.com, MSNBC.com, ABC News, TODAY Travel, and CruiseCritic.com, among other publications.

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Before you can experience authentic Spanish tapas, piazzas in Rome, or rooftop terraces in Prague, an important to-do list stands between you and your European vacation. The logistics involved in planning a trip to Europe may seem tedious or overwhelming, but the more prepared you are, the greater your chances of a successful trip that lives up to your expectations. That’s why it’s important to do a bang-up job creating an itinerary, arranging transportation, and tackling the brass tacks before you’re off to the Continent.

The following guide explains how to plan a trip to Europe in 10 simple steps—so you can spend less time worrying about your travel arrangements and more time staring at pictures of castles and men in kilts.

Four friends sitting in front of the Eiffel Tower

1. Get your documents in order.

If you don’t have a passport, it will take at least four to six weeks from the time of application for you to receive one. Expedited services—either through the State Department or an expeditor such as Travel Visa Pro —can trim the process down to a week or so, but it will cost you an additional fee, so it’s best to take care of this well before your trip.

Already have a passport? Check its expiration date. The last thing you need is to find out your passport has expired while you’re in line at airport check-in. Keep in mind that some countries require your passport to be valid for six months beyond your trip dates.

All car rental companies require drivers to have valid licenses in their home country, so you’ll also want to check the expiration date of your license. Some car rental companies also require an international driving permit for European rentals in addition to a valid driver’s license. For U.S. citizens, these can be obtained through the American Auto Association (AAA); in Canada, try the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA).

Depending on length of stay, some destinations require valid visas in addition to passports; obtaining one is a complicated process that can take weeks even after you have been approved—so start early.

2. Establish a budget.

When planning a trip to Europe, establish a budget as early as possible—even before you know your destination, travel dates, or itinerary. Some destinations are generally cheaper than others, but there are ways to save everywhere: travel in the off-season, pick budget accommodations, plan a shorter trip. For example, London is an expensive city, but many travel providers and airlines offer affordable vacation packages to the city, and it’s not hard to find cheap air deals to London, especially during the winter.

Set your budget early on, and you’ll avoid any disappointment that could come from forging a fabulous itinerary, like two weeks in Switzerland during summer, and then discovering you can’t afford it. Travel budget apps such as TrabeePocket ( iOS | Android ) can help you keep track of your expenses once you start making bookings.

The Most Expensive Cities in the World

3. Pick a destination.

Now that you know how much you can spend, where do you want to go? If you’re like many travelers and you have a humongous list of places in Europe you want to visit, this could be tricky.

One strategy is to pick a particular site that’s on your must-see travel list, and plan your vacation around that. Last year I planned a trip to Ireland centered on an excursion to remote Skellig Michael Island , a UNESCO World Heritage site I’d dreamed of visiting. The excursion turned into an unforgettable two-week Emerald Isle road trip.

Another option is to pick someplace timely. Visit countries’ tourism websites and search for seasonal events like festivals or local holidays (which you may want to either avoid or join, depending on how you feel about crowds). Don’t forget to check the weather before you decide on your destination.

4. Create a rough itinerary.

So you want to go to France, eh? Don’t go ahead and buy a roundtrip flight to Paris and a hotel room—at least, not yet. You’ll want to sketch out a day-by-day itinerary of your perfect trip to France before you book a thing. Research sites and cities you really want to explore, and then figure out which ones you have the time and budget to get to.

Check out alternative ways to travel in Europe. If you want to see multiple countries or cities but are on a tight budget, you may want to consider a cruise (exchange rates are naught for U.S. citizens onboard American ships). If you’d rather not do the work of creating your own itinerary, continue booking a group tour with a company such as Intrepid Travel , G Adventures , Trafalgar , or Rick Steves’ Europe .

Woman standing on wall overlooking the ocean in Santorini, Greece

5. Book your airfare.

Because airfare will probably be the most expensive part of your trip, you’ll want to book it before anything else (car rental, hotel, etc.). This will allow you to be more flexible with your dates, which is a great way to save money on your flight. You can often spend less by flying on international discount airlines like Aer Lingus or Norwegian . Check multiple booking sites , including meta-search sites such as Skyscanner and traditional booking sites such as Expedia , to make sure you’re seeing a wide range of options. You can also set up fare alerts using Airfarewatchdog , SmarterTravel’s sister site, so you’ll be notified when the price of your flight drops.

Consider spicing up your trip with a layover in a different country. Icelandair has a long-running program that allows passengers flying elsewhere in Europe to take a free stopover in Reykjavik for up to seven nights.

Where to Find Premium Airfare Deals on First Class and Business Class

6. Book your accommodations.

It’s time to go back to that rough itinerary you jotted down and fill in some places to sleep. As is the case with pretty much everything you book for your trip, the earlier you make arrangements, the better—especially during summer high season.

Sure, you can just book a room at the local Hilton and be done with it. But do a bit of research and you could discover some funky lodging that’s almost as exciting as the attractions you plan to visit. Keep your eyes open for historic castles, tiny bed and breakfasts, houseboats, eco-friendly hotels, or organic farms. Budget travelers take note: Vacation rentals , homestays, farm stays, and house-swapping are accommodation options that can be shockingly affordable … or even free.

As with airfare, you should shop around on multiple hotel sites to make sure you’re getting the best deal, and read reviews from past guests to see what the experience is like. TripAdvisor , Booking.com , and Hotels.com are a few good places to start.

7. Consider travel insurance.

There are several kinds of travel insurance: trip cancellation insurance, flight cancellation insurance, medical insurance, etc. The best time to buy insurance is right after you put down the major deposits on your trip, whether that entails airfare, a package, or prepaid hotels. Once you know how much money you’ve paid upfront, you can ensure your trip if you so choose. Many airlines and travel providers sell insurance that you can purchase along with your flight or tour package. Always, always read the fine print in your policy and compare it with other travel insurance policies before you make a purchase.

Check your medical insurance coverage to see if you’re covered overseas. If not, you may want to purchase supplemental medical insurance to cover situations like the cost of transportation back home for emergency care.

Reputable travel insurance companies to consider include Allianz Travel and Seven Corners .

Travel Insurance Coverage: 18 Things Your Policy Won’t Cover

8. Book local transportation and day tours.

When in Rome, ride the Metropolitana. Find out how the locals get around the destination to which you’re traveling and act accordingly. You won’t need a car rental in places like bike-friendly Amsterdam or London with its convenient underground Tube, unless you plan to go outside the city.

A car rental is your best bet if you’re traveling to locales that can’t be easily reached by rail or plane (such as the Irish countryside). Be mentally prepared to drive in a foreign country, which can be a frightening experience when faced with incomprehensible traffic signs, narrow streets, or sheep roadblocks.

To get from city to city or country to country, examine your rail options in comparison to routes and prices offered by European discount airlines like easyJet  or Ryanair . Travelers embarking on extensive travel within Europe may save money by purchasing a rail pass from Rail Europe that permits unlimited train travel within a specified region.

Check out Viator to book day tours, especially if you want to take advantage of skip-the-line options.

Couple sitting next to canal in Copenhagen, Denmark

9. Tackle last-minute logistics.

A few weeks before your departure date is the right time to start taking care of a number of key logistics: money, phone, house-sitter, pet-sitter.

Call your credit card companies to let them know you’ll be traveling abroad. While you’re at it, find out if you’re going to be charged a fee for using your card overseas. Research the locations of ATMs in your destination, especially if you’ll be relying on cash.

Does your cell phone plan allow you to make calls overseas, and if so, how much will it cost you? Many cell phone companies offer temporary international plans that you can purchase for the month you’re traveling. You might also want to consider a mobile hotspot device to keep you connected.

5 Ways to Use Your Phone GPS Without Data

Packing for Europe requires both different items and a different mindset in comparison to some other types of trips. After all, there’s no arguing that Parisians are more stylish than your typical North American tourist. Most of central and western Europe have milder climates throughout the year, but that doesn’t mean you won’t encounter rain or a heatwave. You should pack clothing that’s easy to layer , and always include a packable raincoat or travel umbrella in your suitcase when traveling to Europe. Think about how you’ll be carrying your money —pickpocketing schemes are more common abroad, so it’s important to carry your money and personal belongings securely. When researching your European destination of choice, consider the overall climate and time of year you’ll be traveling. Then, about a week before your trip check out the forecast, mobilize a packing list , and ensure your suitcase is in working condition and meets your airline’s size restrictions.

Pro packing tip: If you’re tight on packing space, invest in a packing cube set . They do wonders, especially if you’re stopping in multiple destinations as they make repacking a breeze.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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blue domes of oia santorini, one of the best places to visit when traveling to europe for the first time

Your 13-Step Guide to Traveling to Europe for the First Time

There is absolutely nothing like traveling to Europe for the first time–and we want to help make your experience as magical as possible!

It has been about a decade since our very first trip to Europe, and I still remember it like it was yesterday.

The thrill of the plane touching down in Paris , the confusion of taking the RER B train into the city, and the absolute electricity that shot through my veins as we exited the train stop and I marveled at the real-life version of Saint-Germain-des-Prés unfolding before my eyes (I swear, actual church bells were going off)–I remember it all.

I remember the next trip, too, where we upped the stakes: instead of a week in Paris, we spent 2.5 weeks exploring Krakow ,  Budapest ,  Plitvice Lakes National Park ,  Zadar ,  Dublin , and the  Cliffs of Moher .

… and then we quit our jobs to travel the world , and we’ve only gotten more obsessed with traveling Europe since.

kate storm in a black dress at the top of the bell tower, one of the top activities saint emilion france

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In the decade since that first trip to Paris, we’ve thrown ourselves into exploring the world, traveling full-time for 4+ years, visiting 50+ countries (including most countries in Europe), and even living in Portugal along the way.

One of my absolute favorite parts of my job, though, is to help people–primarily Americans like myself–plan their first trip to Europe.

Because here’s the thing: neither my husband Jeremy nor I ever had a passport or left the USA until we were adults.

We taught ourselves how to travel Europe and the world at large from scratch, and I remember the fear we felt and the mistakes we made along the way almost as well as I remember the beauty of that first glimpse of the Eiffel Tower.

If you find yourself with a major case of European wanderlust and a dizzying array of questions about how to turn those travel dreams into your actual first trip to Europe, this checklist is for you.

Here’s your step-by-step guide to traveling to Europe for the first time!

Table of Contents

Ready to Plan Your First Europe Trip?

Our top 2 tips for visiting europe for the first time, planning your first trip to europe: your 13-step checklist, faq about traveling to europe for the first time.

kate storm jeremy storm and ranger storm in plaza de espana seville spain

Helping people plan trips is our passion and purpose here on Our Escape Clause.

Once you read this step-by-step checklist for planning your first trip to Europe, we’d love to help you continue to plan your travels in more detail!

We have around a dozen general Europe travel guides on our website, including everything from suggested Europe travel itineraries to where to find the most magical Christmas markets , plus literally hundreds of posts on specific European destinations!

We’ll link relevant blog posts throughout this Europe travel guide, but if you’re curious about our coverage of any particular place, you can use the search bar in the top right corner of the site (or on the pop-out menu if you’re reading on your phone) to see what we’ve written.

You can also check out our destinations page to browse by country!

Postcard view of Plitvice Lakes Croatia showing lake and waterfalls seen from above in a vertical image

We have a lot to say when it comes to Europe travel tips ( here are 75 of our best ones ), but specifically for travelers visiting Europe for the first time, there are 2 pieces of advice we’d give above all others.

First, resist the urge to overcrowd your itinerary.

I go into this more below, but believe us, we absolutely relate: I still have to fight this urge with every trip we take!

However, moving around constantly is a surefire way to end up overwhelmed, exhausted, and not getting to appreciate all of the magnificent places you’re seeing.

Best Views in Prague: View from Old Tower Bridge

Second, know that throwing down money and committing to finally taking the trip of your dreams is often the hardest part–once you board the plane, everything gets easier.

I vividly remember how nervous we were to book our first (and second, and third) trips abroad.

For 2 people who had never even had passports until they were adults, we had a lot to learn!

But at the same time–I’m so, so, so glad we took the plunge, and you will be too.

After all, millions of people travel to foreign countries each year, and there’s absolutely no reason that you can’t be among them.

You’ve got this!

Now onto the details…

kate storm standing on the edge of the island san giorgio maggiore

Step 1: Get inspired and brainstorm where you want to go.

Without a doubt, the first step to planning a trip to Europe is brainstorming all of the places you want to visit!

If you’re anything like us, odds are high that the list is longer than what you could rationally accomplish in a decade, let alone on a single vacation, but it never hurts to dream!

Whether you want to road trip Tuscany , wander the streets of Paris , marvel at the Alhambra in Spain, hike on a glacier in Iceland, stroll along the Cliffs of Moher in Ireland , or something radically different, pay attention to what calls to you the most.

There are no wrong answers when deciding which destinations are most interesting to you!

kate storm and jeremy storm on a glacier tour iceland

Step 2: Check visa requirements for Europe.

While most readers of this blog post, such as Americans like us and other people from non-European, strong-passport countries like Canada and Australia, will likely not need a visa to take their dream trip to Europe, it’s always best to triple-check!

(And, in a post-2020 world, we all know more than ever that expectations can change quickly.)

As you research what you need to travel to Europe, you’ll likely come across many references to the Schengen Area .

These are the 26 European countries that share open borders with each other.

kate storm standing in front of 3 blue domes on Santorini, Honeymoon in Santorini

Americans and many others can visit these countries for up to 90 days out of any 180 without a visa.

In the future, the ETIAS system –essentially an e-visa procured by filling out paperwork online before traveling, which will cost a nominal 7 Euro–will come into effect for the Schengen Area.

ETIAS is currently slated to begin operating sometime in 2024, though the starting date has been pushed back several times.

Other countries–like the UK, Montenegro, and Romania, for example–are not part of this system, but if you come from a country with a strong passport, you likely won’t need a visa there either.

A few nearby places that might be on your radar, like Turkey , require an e-visa for Americans to enter.

kate storm in cascais portugal on a day trip from lisbon

Step 3: Shop for flights (and be as flexible as possible).

Once you have a list of your most-wanted travel destinations and have confirmed you’re clear to travel, it’s time to shop for your flights to Europe!

We recommend being as flexible as possible during this process, either with your travel dates, your destinations, or ideally, both.

Flight prices and routes can vary dramatically depending on where you’re coming from and where you’re going, which is one reason why we don’t recommend finalizing your Europe itinerary until you have your flights purchased (more on that below).

Ideally, you’ll want to start and end your first Europe trip in a major airport hub.

This doesn’t necessarily need to be the same hub, though!

Ryanair plane parked on the tarmac with people boarding--you have to be extra careful to pack all your in flight essentials when taking a budget flight

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 during our first multi-country trip to Europe!

As far as airports go, for those of you coming from the USA (or anywhere in North America, really), you’ll want to potentially check ticket prices for London, Madrid , Dublin, Paris ,  Lisbon , Frankfurt,  Amsterdam , and  Milan .

That’s not an exhaustive list by any means, but there are often flight deals to and from these cities.

Kate Storm and Jeremy Storm in gardens of Madrid Royal Palace, an excellent stop on any 3 day Madrid itinerary

Step 4: Narrow down your itinerary for your first Europe trip.

Now that you’ve scored a great flight deal on the “bookends” of your trip, it’s time to fill in the rest of your itinerary for traveling Europe for the first time!

As we mentioned above, the biggest challenge here for most travelers is to not bite off more than they can chew and travel too fast.

Trust me, we understand the temptation–I still have to trim destinations from every. single. trip. that we plan, because my overwhelming desire to do it all fights with logic every step of the way.

I promise, though, you will have a much better trip if you slow it down.

Ideally, allow at least 2 full days (typically not including days you travel to or from the destination, though there are exceptions) to each “base” or city.

Staying in one place for 3 or 4 days is even better, and will give you time for a day trip or two.

kate storm and ranger storm in menerbes luberon valley france

We have several suggested Europe itineraries outlined here , and can highly recommend all of them!

However, there are truly infinite possibilities when it comes to structuring your first Europe trip.

When it comes to deciding exactly which of your dream destinations make the cut, we recommend letting geography be the tiebreaker.

For example, if you’re trying to decide whether to visit Amsterdam or Budapest on a trip where you fly into Paris, Amsterdam is the clear winner.

Kate Storm and Jeremy Storm wearing winter coats on the edge of a canal in Amsterdam in December, facing each other

If you fly into Vienna instead of Paris, though… Budapest it is!

Other factors to keep in mind when narrowing down your itinerary include seasonality/weather and your budget.

Using Google Flights and searching the general term “Europe” in the “Where To?” box can be a great way to find unexpected flight deals!

(Don’t forget to play around with the map, zooming in and out on different regions–you might be surprised at what deals you find).

Best Things to Do in Budapest: Imre Nagy Statue

Step 5: Finalize your budget for traveling to Europe for the first time.

Now that you know exactly when your trip to Europe is happening and where you are going, it’s time to finalize your travel budget!

We recommend taking the total amount you hope to spend in Europe, subtracting any splurges or major expenses you know are coming (a pricey tour, some clothes shopping, etc.), and then dividing the remaining amount by the number of days you’ll be traveling in Europe.

Voila–you have your daily Europe travel budget!

This is the number you should try to stay under each day when you add up the amount you spend on food, activities, lodging, and intra-city transportation.

We have used this simple strategy to budget our trips for years and detail it more thoroughly in our travel budgeting guide .

kate storm in front of igrejo do carmo azulejos, one of the best places to visit in porto in a day

Step 6: Book some of your accommodation.

Once you have your plane tickets, a plan for where you’re going, and a budget set, it’s time to decide where to sleep!

We offer specific hotel suggestions in the vast majority of our destination-specific travel guides, but generally speaking, you’ll want to look for something well-reviewed (we aim for an 8.0 rating or better on Booking.com ) in a central location.

Also, keep an eye out for air conditioning and/or heating as the weather demands–those things are not a guarantee in all areas!

A very general rule to keep in mind when booking hotels?

The smaller the destination, the earlier you will want to book.

Somewhere like Cinque Terre simply doesn’t have as much lodging available as it does people who want to visit, while places like Paris are big enough to absorb their travelers in spite of their popularity.

Photo of skyline of Vernazza when approaching from Corniglia: making sure to see this view is one of our Cinque Terre tips!

As a result, tiny, popular places are where we tend to book our accommodation the earliest.

Of course, if you’re headed somewhere for a big event or festival–say Oktoberfest in Munich or Christmas markets in Salzburg –you’ll want to book ASAP.

We find virtually all of our accommodation (short-term apartment rentals included) via Booking.com these days.

If we get stuck, we may occasionally check Airbnb too, but as the years have gone by, prices and guest expectations have both increased dramatically, so we find ourselves using it much less than we once did.

kate storm jeremy storm and ranger storm on a balcony overlooking matera on a southern italy itinerary

Step 7: Figure out your inter-city (or country) transportation.

When it comes to traveling between each of your destinations during your vacation in Europe, you might find that you come up with quite a mix of methods!

Trains are our favorite way to travel in Europe–they’re simple, comfortable, safe, and extremely convenient for visiting most major cities (there are caveats to this, in places like the Balkans).

We would only recommend renting a car if you’re visiting the countryside somewhere.

Bled Island in the center of Lake Bled in Slovenia, a must-see during a Slovenia road trip itinerary

If your itinerary is a more typical first-timer’s route and sticks to major cities–something like London-Paris-Amsterdam–then a car is absolutely unnecessary.

Buses are our least favorite method, as they tend to be slow and uncomfortable, but are undoubtedly the cheapest.

Flights are by far and away the best option for extreme distances, but are cumbersome and tend to eat up an entire day.

And, finally: if you’re visiting Europe in the summer , don’t forget about ferries!

jeremy storm and ranger storm standing in front of the sea in otranto italy, ranger in a backpack

Step 8: Book some of your bucket-list travel experiences in Europe.

While simply existing in a gorgeous new destination is a bucket-list travel experience in and of itself, booking some unique tours and attractions can help make your trip even more memorable!

From touring the Colosseum at night to eating our way through Athens on an incredible food tour to snorkeling between 2 tectonic plates in Iceland, we have never been sorry to splurge on a memorable experience abroad.

(And yes, we paid our way on each of those tours–we don’t accept sponsored trips or tell anyone that we’re bloggers while there.)

kate storm overlooking the colosseum after hours

Booking your experiences in advance goes beyond the small group tours, though: skip-the-line tickets for major attractions like the Arc de Triomphe , Vatican Museums , and Sagrada Familia are so beneficial that I cannot sing their praises enough.

We never show up to a major attraction without booking tickets in advance these days (and it’s even more important in a post-2020 world).

We book our skip-the-line tickets and many of our tours through Get Your Guide .

For bespoke, small-group tours that go above and beyond the “normal” experience, we love Take Walks .

interior of the sagrada familia in barcelona spain, an amazing destination when traveling to europe for the first time

Step 9: Learn a little bit of the local language(s).

If you’re staying firmly on the tourist trail on your trip to Europe, you won’t necessarily  need  to speak any of the local language(s) to travel there.

… But you will almost certainly encounter some monolingual Europeans, and either way, it will definitely enhance your experience in the country to know a tiny bit of their language.

Simple phrases like hello, goodbye, please, thank you, you’re welcome, do you speak English, and the numbers 1-10 can go a long way!

If you’d like to go a bit further, learning to order in restaurants and read menus is both helpful and efficient.

In addition to being fun and practical to learn, it’s one of the conversations that you’re likely to have repeatedly enough during your travels that the phrases will potentially stick with you until long after your trip is over.

jeremy storm and ranger storm eating breakfast in venice italy--it's fun to be able to order in italian during your first trip to europe

Step 10: Make a packing list (and shop!).

Packing can often be one of the most unexpectedly stressful parts of getting ready for a trip, and even more so for your very first European vacation!

We have full suggested packing lists for Europe in spring , summer , winter , and fall , which go into far more detail than I have room for here.

Our absolute biggest advice for packing for Europe, though, is not to stress too much about it: just about anything you could possibly forget will be available there too!

For now, here are a few essentials that we absolutely recommend adding to your list:

Fun Things to Do in Dubrovnik: Kate Storm and Jeremy Storm on Dubrovnik city walls

Travel Adaptors for Europe — If you’re coming from outside of Europe, you’ll definitely need adaptors for your electronics.

Be sure to check the requirements for any particular country that you visit–the United Kingdom, for example, is well-known for using different plugs than most of the continent.

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.

Jeremy Storm carrying a pacsafe backpack and wearing a gray jacket, looking out over Conor Pass in Ireland

Portable USB Charger — Don’t stress about your phone dying while you’re sightseeing: add a portable charger to your packing list for Europe.

Basic Medication  — Some people prefer to buy medication for basic headaches, fevers, and stomach aches as needed, but who wants to deal with language barriers when they’re sick?

I personally learned this lesson the hard way on our very first trip to Europe, and have never hopped continents without my own supply since.

grote markt in bruges belgium, a fun stop for your first time traveling europe

Step 11: Purchase travel insurance.

Don’t forget to purchase travel insurance before jetting off to Europe!

While Europe is generally a perfectly safe place to travel, the reality is that traveling in general opens you up to vulnerabilities that you simply don’t have at home.

If you miss a plane or train, have your luggage get lost, get pickpocketed, or worse, get injured, you’ll be glad that you have insurance.

Given how inexpensive travel insurance is when purchased in advance (especially as compared to the price of plane tickets!), it’s well worth the investment.

Consider checking inclusions and prices with  Safety Wing  for your first trip to Europe.

kate storm in a navy blue dress in front of the marsaxlokk harbor, one of the best places to visit in malta

Step 12: Plan for your arrival.

The penultimate step of planning a trip to Europe is as simple as it is important: make an arrival plan.

When you arrive, you’re undoubtedly going to be exhausted, overwhelmed, and probably a bit jetlagged, too!

No matter how many times we step foot in a new country, it never stops being a tiny bit stressful, simply because there are a lot of variables at play in the first few hours of arriving somewhere new.

ranger storm overlooking toledo spain on his first vacation in europe

Make life easier on yourself by thinking ahead!

When learning how to travel to Europe, set aside time to figure out your exact steps for what to do after the plane lands.

That means knowing exactly how far away your hotel is, how you’ll get there from the airport (train, bus, rental car, taxi?).

If you’ll be traveling by taxi, look up what a reasonable price is at your destination and/or if there’s a set fare from the airport to the city center (in major cities, there often is).

Though it’s not strictly necessary, if you’d like to make arriving in Europe for the first time extra easy on yourself, consider treating yourself to an airport transfer when you arrive (like tours, you can often book these on Get Your Guide ).

Options like this one in Rome and this one in Paris can be a great way to make sure your very first Europe trip starts off on the right foot.

Kate Storm wearing a brown coat and blue backpack, looking up at a departures board in an airport. Her purse holds some of her long haul flight essentials!

Step 13: Have an amazing first trip to Europe!

Once you’ve done the planning… then it’s time for the fun part!

Enjoy every step of your first trip to Europe, from the confusing parts to the magical ones–and yes, both will probably end up with a prominent place in your memories.

If you’re anything like us, the odds are high that your first experience of traveling in Europe won’t be your last.

Once you start… it’s hard to stop.

kate storm and jeremy storm overlooking a balcony in wengen switerland jungfrau region

Every day, I wake up to emails from readers planning a trip to Europe.

I love answering emails (and yes, I will probably answer yours!), but there are definitely some frequently asked questions that come up often enough that they deserve a blanket response here.

These are some of the most common FAQs we see about traveling in Europe!

kate storm and jeremy storm sitting on a ledge overlooking cesky krumlov in winter

What’s the easiest way to get Euros and other currency?

The answer to this question has a significant caveat: be sure to check foreign transaction fees and ATM fees with your bank before leaving and let your financial institutions know that you’ll be abroad.

However, generally speaking, by far the easiest way to acquire a new currency when traveling in Europe is to simply withdraw money from the ATM when you arrive.

It has been years since we’ve done anything else, anywhere in the world!

Pena Palace in Sintra, an excellent day trip from Lisbon Portugal

When you’re at the ATM, be sure to opt to have the transaction go through in the currency you’re receiving (ie, Euros), not your home currency (ie, USD).

Your bank’s conversion rate will undoubtedly be better than the ATM’s!

Also, avoid Euronet-branded ATMs like the plague: they’re infamous for their extremely high fees.

Instead, look for an ATM operated by a local bank.

Paris in winter: view from Notre Dame

How should I get from city to city in Europe?

This depends entirely on your itinerary, but here’s a very short, very general answer.

Trains are the most comfortable, and often the most expensive.

Buses are the least comfortable, frequently take the longest, and are generally the cheapest.

Rental cars have their place–there are some truly phenomenal road trips in Europe –but rarely make sense for first-time travelers, who tend to bounce between major cities that are well-connected by rail.

kate storm boarding a train to sintra from lisbon portugal

Flights are the most cumbersome, as they burn time dealing with things like security and getting to and from airports located outside of city centers, and simply aren’t comfortable.

However, flights can be surprisingly affordable compared to trains and are obviously the fastest option for covering very long distances.

When traveling Europe for the first time, we recommend traveling by train wherever it makes sense, and filling in the other options as necessary ( here’s our full guide to train travel in Europe ).

Our first multi-country trip to Europe included an overnight train, a daytime train, 2 rental cars, and a flight–in other words, you can definitely mix and match!

Kate Storm waiting for a train on a platform in Luxembourg, as part of a travel Europe by train adventure across Europe

How can I use my phone in Europe?

If your phone is unlocked, the cheapest and easiest way to use your phone in Europe is to buy a local SIM card.

You can either do that on the ground once you land (there’s almost always a selection of helpful kiosks near the airport exit) or if you’d prefer not to worry about it once you arrive, you can buy one online before you go or even try out an eSIM card.

If your phone is not unlocked, or you just hate the idea of changing your SIM card, check with your carrier and see what they offer as far as international plans go.

praia do camilo from above, one of the best things to do in lagos portugal

Will I need an adaptor for my electronics?

Most likely, yes!

Luckily, adaptors 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 adaptors as well.

Cliffs of Moher in Ireland with O'Brien's Tower visible on the left and the Stack visible on the right

Do I need to be worried about pickpockets?

I wouldn’t go so far as the use the word “worried”, but aware, yes.

Pickpockets are a problem around the world in places where there are crowds, and that includes major European cities.

Barcelona, Rome, Paris, and Naples are examples of places that are particularly prone to pickpockets.

Watch your belongings carefully, especially near particularly crowded tourist attractions and in and around transportation hubs like train stations, and you will most likely be fine.

Kate Storm in a gray dress standing in Rue de l'Universite in Paris with the Eiffel Tower behind her

Very generally speaking, the closer to a world-famous landmark you are, the higher the risk of getting pickpocketed is in that place.

We have never been pickpocketed, but it does happen, even to experienced travelers.

We don’t choose to use a money belt anymore, and pickpockets certainly know about them, but if you would like another layer of protection, they’re an option (we used this one when we first started traveling).

An anti-theft day bag that can be locked and/or attached to a chair can help too, and we carry one everywhere ( we love this one ).

busy spanish steps with fountain in foreground as seen when traveling rome italy

How severe 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 that you are planning to visit during your first European vacation, 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 trip will likely take place–generally speak some English.

kate storm standing in front of the blue mosque, one of the best things to do in istanbul turkey

Can I drink the tap water in Europe?

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!

kate storm and jeremy storm standing at an overlooking slovakia hiking high tatras

How far in advance should I book my trip?

For plane tickets, we recommend booking your trip 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 central European cities during the Christmas markets, you’ll want to book your hotels as far in advance as you can commit to them as well.

kate storm and jeremy storm holding mugs of gluhwein in one of the christmas markets in bavaria munich germany

What’s your favorite country in Europe?

We get asked this all the time, and the answer is: we couldn’t possibly choose!

We definitely have a very special love for Italy –we’ve spent more time there than any other country outside the USA, traveled the country from north to south, know the travel scene there very intimately, and will continue to visit extensively for the rest of our lives.

And no, we haven’t discounted the possibility of living there one day, either!

However, simply naming Italy as our favorite would discount so much.

Like, for example, how much we adore hiking amongst the Alps in Switzerland, or waking up in picturesque bed and breakfasts in Ireland .

cows in ireland at sunset in the summer, a great first timers destination when traveling to europe for the first time

It skips over the joy of wandering through the art museums of Paris , admiring the rocky coastline of the western Algarve in Portugal, and jumping into the Adriatic Sea in Croatia .

Simply naming one favorite doesn’t leave room for sharing just how incredible it is to marvel at Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany, or devour Greek salads on Santorini … or so much more than I could include in this list.

And really, the answer to the question behind the question is this: as long as it’s somewhere that you’re desperate to visit, and you plan your trip well, it doesn’t really matter where you decide to go on your first trip to Europe.

Traveling to Europe for the first time is a magnificent and potentially (in our case, definitely) life-altering experience, and there are no wrong answers.

4 photos of europe: french castle, cinque terre, greek beach, woman sightseeing. black and red text reads "how to plan your first europe trip"

About Kate Storm

Image of the author, 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.

2 thoughts on “Your 13-Step Guide to Traveling to Europe for the First Time”

Your blog is SO informative! Planning my first ever trip to Europe (Scotland in particular) and all the info you have is super helpful! 🙂

So glad to help, and I hope you have a fantastic trip to Scotland!

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Here's How to Plan Your Very First Trip to Europe, According to a Professional Traveler

Heading to Europe for the very first time? We've got some advice for you.

europe trip plan

Whether you study abroad , backpack solo, or go with a group for your first trip to Europe, it's an experience that will change your life — and alter your perspective in all the best ways — forever. Even if you visited the continent with your parents as a kid, your first "solo" adventure to Europe as a young adult promises to reward you with rich memories. From digging into freshly baked pizza in Italy to picnicking beneath the Eiffel Tower with a still-warm baguette, it's a trip filled with experiences you'll talk about for the rest of your life.

Though I had visited Italy with my parents as a kid, my own first adventure to Europe as a young adult was in 2015. I was 21, newly married, and heartbroken at the loss of my father four months earlier. I had been studying British literature and European history in my college classes and was eager to make real-world connections to my curriculum. In preparation, my husband and I watched every Rick Steves video on YouTube and movies like Under the Tuscan Sun , Midnight in Paris , Notting Hill , and Eat, Pray, Love . The spring semester of my junior year ended, and we set off with nothing but backpacks containing a few (and I do mean a few) sets of clothes, a budget of about $100 per day, and five short weeks to see it all.

Besides opening our eyes, pushing us to our limits, and expanding our perspectives in ways that nothing else could, that trip ignited in us a shared passion for travel — and for encouraging others to do the same. Read on for tips for planning your first trip to Europe like a pro.

Get Around With a Eurail Pass

Do you need a Eurail pass to get around Europe? Maybe not, but I devoted a large chunk of our shoestring budget to it on my first trip, and I've bought one for every extended trip I've taken to Europe since then — even now that I've hit the ancient age of 28 and no longer qualify forEurail's discounted youth pricing — so that should tell you something.

Most of Europe is well connected via a vast rail network spanning the continent. A Eurail pass — available exclusively to non-Europeans — makes it hassle-free to hop between countries and even navigate regional trains. Depending on your travel plans, you can purchase passes for specific countries or regions and choose whether you need unlimited use or a set number of travel days.

Remember that once you're in Europe, hops between major cities are often surprisingly low-price (I've seen flights for as little as $6), but often a train is the best choice when you factor in time, convenience, price, and the chance to watch the world go by from your window. Splurge on first-class passes , and you'll always have a comfortable seat.

Plan Your Trip Geographically

Make a list of all your must-hit places, then look at where they fall on a map — connect the dots, and you have your route. Maybe you start in Spain and work your way east, or fly into London, take the Chunnel to Paris , and work your way down to Italy. Whatever you choose, ensure that your route makes sense geographically so you don't waste time (or money) crisscrossing the continent.

Keep Seasons in Mind

Europe is a large continent covering a variety of climates. It may seem obvious, but if you're planning a summer trip, don't expect to frolic in fields of Dutch tulips (that happens in the spring) or ski the Austrian slopes (that would be a winter thing). And as enchanting as the European Christmas markets look on Instagram, don't be disappointed when you put two and two together and realize that they'll only make it to your feed if you're going to Europe in November or December.

An Italian summer is nothing short of sweltering and ice-cold AC isn't a given, so if you're planning to cover all of Rome on foot at high noon, you may want to rethink that. (I learned this the hard way and damn near had a heat stroke.) A midday siesta is common in countries like Spain and Italy for a reason, so do as the locals do and take the summer weather into account before you overexert yourself.

Book in Advance

A PSA for type-A travelers like me: You don't have to have your entire trip planned out before leaving home. (I had a down-to-the-minute itinerary mapped out for my type-B husband and me on our first venture to Europe, and he almost left me as I dragged him from museum to walking tour to restaurant reservation and back again.) Part of the fun — especially if you have a Eurail pass — is going where the wind blows you and deciding what appeals to you upon arrival.

Pro tip: Taking a bus tour on your first day in a destination is a great way to get the lay of the land and cover a lot of ground quickly (without exhausting yourself).

Make a general timeline and book your departure flight from the USA to Europe before you leave home, but perhaps wait until you've hopped the pond to book your flight back. You may decide to stay longer in a particular country or run out of time to make it all the way to Portugal, where you originally intended to fly out of. Create a general outline, but leave some of your trip open and stay flexible.

The one thing you may want to do in advance is reserve hotels, hostels, and Airbnbs because they can fill up during the popular summer months. That's why it's helpful to have a general idea of where you'll be and when — just don't cling to your plan at the expense of a spontaneous sidetrack or two.

What to Bring to Europe

Start working on your packing list a few months beforehand. What you bring will vary depending on destinations, length of trip, and your fussiness level, but there are a few non-negotiables.

Don't leave home without:

  • Your passport
  • Converters for European outlets (both UK and EU, as needed)
  • A credit card and/or a debit card for getting cash out of an ATM (you'll get a better rate this way than doing it through a currency-exchange counter)
  • COVID-era items such as your vaccine card, printed copies of your negative COVID test results (if required) , and a few self-test kits
  • A secure envelope to hold all of these important documents (including a few color copies of your passport) in one place
  • An international plan added to your phone (unless you're a T-Mobile customer)
  • Global Entry (not necessary, but a definite plus when you return to the USA)

You'll also find life a lot easier with the Google Translate app and the XE currency conversion app on your smartphone. Before you depart, download the countries you'll be visiting to ensure offline availability. The Been app , where you can track which countries you've visited and how much of the world you've seen, is another fun app for travelers, especially on a trip like this where you'll be checking off a lot of countries.

And a note on packing light : You'll need nothing more than a backpack and a carry-on, max. Trust me. (There are laundry rooms at every hostel and laundromats in every city.)

Where to Go on Your First Trip to Europe

If you only have time or the budget to see a few places, start with the basics . You've likely learned about major cities like London, Paris , and Rome since you can remember — now's the time to see them through your own eyes.

Once you have the must-hit places on your itinerary, plan some additional stops according to your interests. There's a lot to see in Italy outside of Rome — I'd include Venice, Cinque Terre or the Amalfi Coast, Florence, and the surrounding Tuscan wine country on any trip to Italy, especially for first-timers.

Maybe you've been digging into your ancestry and found that you have Hungarian heritage like I have — Budapest was a shoo-in for us this summer — or perhaps you've always dreamed of hiking the Swiss Alps, clinking glasses in a German beer hall, or soaking up the sun in the Greek Isles .

Maybe you want to visit Poland and pay your respects at Auschwitz — I consider this sobering, heart-wrenching experience a must — or try every waffle you come across in Belgium. You can do it all if you have enough time, but start by arranging a shortlist with your top priorities and then tack on additional destinations if you have space.

These are some of the best places to visit in Europe, but the best destinations for you will depend on your interests, priorities, and goals. If you're purely on "vacation" with no remote work or school obligations, two to three days in each place should suffice, but if you can't devote your full attention each day to exploring, then you'll want a little extra time in each city to do it justice.

If you plan on going on ice climbing or hiking excursions, be sure to include crampons in your packing list for Europe in winter

How to Plan an EPIC Trip to Europe in 8 Simple Steps

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Want to know how to plan a trip to Europe in just a few simple steps? I can help!

Europe is a dream vacation for many people. With everything from experiencing the Eiffel Tower glimmer after dark in Paris, watching the sun set over the fairytale village of Český Krumlov in Czechia, to kayaking through the Algarve in Portugal, it’s easy to understand why Europe is so highly praised.

But, with dozens of countries, hundreds of cities, and thousands of activities to choose from, you must be wondering “how am I ever going to organize a trip to Europe that encompasses everything I’m looking for?”

And I’m here to tell you it’s simpler than you think! With years of backpacking and travel experience under my belt, I’ve broken the process down into easy steps for you to follow.

Everything from figuring out where to go, what to do, how long to stay, how to book, and what to pack are included so all of the guesswork has been removed!

Just follow my simple guide and you’ll be jetting off to Europe on your dream vacation in no time.

How to Plan a Trip to Europe in 8 Simple Steps

Being an itinerary planner myself, I’ve nailed down the 8 essential steps that everyone must take in order to plan their first trip to Europe. And once you learn them, you’re in luck because they can actually be used for anywhere that you want to travel… not just Europe!

Go in order, organize your thoughts, and you’ll have your itinerary planned in no time.

Step 1: Figure Out Your Travel Style

Figuring out how to plan a trip to Europe can be daunting, so it's important to figure out your travel style first

BEACHES, MOUNTAINS, or MEDIEVAL CASTLES?

Europe is overflowing with charm and culture from its cobblestone streets to its luxurious beaches. When deciding to plan a trip to Europe, it’s important to consider what you’re looking to experience during your trip.

Are you a self-confessed beach snob who is seeking the clearest, turquoise blue waters and fine, golden sand? Would you prefer to spend your vacation enjoying the peace and serenity of the mountains, away from the chaotic cities and crowds of tourists?

Or do you want to get lost in a network of narrow alleyways lined with quaint shops and cafés on your way to a gothic cathedral adorned with sky-high spires?

No matter what you’re looking for out of your vacation, Europe has it! If you like the sounds of relaxing on the beach the best, then Spain, Portugal, Italy, Greece, the south of France, Croatia… you get it. You have endless options.

But, if the mountains are more your style then you could spend your days hiking in the Pyrenees and Sierra Nevada Mountains of Spain or the majestic Alps in France, Italy, and Switzerland.

If fairytale towns pulled like a scene from a storybook are calling your name, you have several options, as well.

The southeastern town of Annecy in the Haute Savoie region of France boasts vibrant colors, interweaving cobblestoned streets, and a former island prison whereas the medieval town of Bruges in Belgium is full of gothic architecture, meandering canals, and old time charm.

Got castles on the brain? Head to Ireland! With over 30,000 castles in the Republic alone, you could spend months here and not visit the same castle twice. Not to mention, Ireland is full of lively folk music, hearty cuisine, and the most hospitable people!

If you aren’t really sure where to start when it comes to figuring out your travel style, you’re in luck because I created a travel style quiz that will help you figure it out!

3 DAYS or 2 WEEKS?

Knowing how long you want to travel for is an important part of learning how to plan a trip to Europe

When deciding on how to plan a trip to Europe, you’ll need to know how much time you have for travel. If you’re squeezing a trip into a spring break from college, it’s likely you’ll only be able to visit one or two countries.

If you plan on using your full two weeks of vacation time in one go from your job, then you’ll be able to thoroughly explore a larger region and several countries depending on your travel style.

To figure out your travel style, ask yourself this: “do I plan on backpacking through several countries in a short period of time or do I prefer to relax and enjoy each place to the fullest?”

Having done both, I can honestly say they both have their perks.

In college, I backpacked across four European countries in 9 days. I was able to see magnificent sights, explore different cities, try different foods, meet new people, and experience different cultures in a very quick trip.

But, I was on the move A LOT. Every second of my day was planned out and there really wasn’t much room for relaxing.

I have also explored single European countries over longer periods of time and found that I was able to learn more about the region, fit in unique day trips, and enjoy the amenities offered to me by my accommodations.

How you plan your trip will depend on what matters more to you: more countries or more time to explore.

BUDGET or LUXURY?

europe trip plan

Next, the budget. If you are like I was in college, you’re probably penny-pinching quite a bit. And, that’s okay! Read through my travel guide below for my best travel tips and advice on how I traveled across Europe when I was in college on a very tight budget.

If you’re not in college and maybe have a bit more money to spare, you’ll have more options for hotels, food, and activities. It’s important to figure out your budget when deciding how to plan a trip to Europe, otherwise, it’s easy to go way overboard.

However, it doesn’t matter if you’re a college student or a millionaire, Europe can be very expensive… I want to make that clear. But, if done correctly, you could be having a picnic under the Eiffel Tower for just a couple hundred dollars coming from the U.S. (I did it!)

Once you know how long you have for traveling, you can start building your budget. Different countries vary greatly in food, accommodation, and travel costs, so be sure to do plenty of research on each place before choosing your country or countries.

Budget travel in Europe typically involves backpacking between countries. In layman’s terms, you’ll be traveling with nothing but a backpack, a good pair of walking shoes, and most likely a Eurail pass.

You’ll be spending most nights in hostels or cheap hotels, will be limiting attractions, and avoiding sit-down restaurants for most of your trip.

On a mid-range budget, you’ll be able to stay in hotels every night, view most of the major attractions but not all, and can comfortably eat at sit-down restaurants a couple of times during your trip. The majority of people live in this world, so don’t feel bad if this is where you are!

On a luxury budget, the sky is the limit. Hotel rooms with a view and rooftop bars and heated pools, room service, guided tours, access to all attractions, and Michelin-starred restaurants if you so choose.

Europe has something for everyone on every budget. Try to think about what you would be comfortable spending and then plan your trip to avoid shocking credit card statements and travel regret!

Step 2: Choose Your Destination(s)

Knowing how to plan a trip to Europe all starts with figuring out where you want to go

Okay, you have figured out your travel style, set a budget, and know what you’re looking for out of your trip. Now, it’s time to do some research on possible European destinations!

I’ve listed a few good places to start your research below. Be sure to keep your budget in mind when researching destinations… countries like Switzerland and England are some of the most expensive countries in the entire world.

Although they can certainly be visited on a budget, it’ll be easier to stick to your budget by choosing other countries, especially if this is your first time visiting Europe.

For the Avid Hiker:

  • Sierra Nevada and Pyrenees Mountain Ranges in Spain
  • French, Italian, and Swiss Alps
  • Glacier and mountain hiking in Iceland
  • If you decide to head up to Spain’s incredible mountains, be sure to read about them in the 33 Most Unique Places to Visit in Spain !

For the Beach Bum:

  • Algarve, Portugal
  • Costa Brava, Spain
  • The Balearic and Canary Islands, Spain
  • Amalfi Coast, Italy
  • The Greek Islands
  • Dubrovnik, Croatia
  • The French Riviera

For the Fairytale Town Seeker:

  • Bruges, Belgium
  • Lake Annecy, France
  • Chamonix, France
  • Luxembourg City, Luxembourg
  • Český Krumlov, Czech Republic
  • Salzburg, Austria

For the Night Owl:

  • Doolin, Ireland (and most of Ireland for that matter)
  • Paris, France
  • Munich, Germany
  • Prague, Czech Republic
  • Budapest, Hungary
  • Lisbon, Portugal
  • Barcelona, Spain

Step 3: Choose Your Travel Method

To know how to plan a trip to Europe, you first need to know you you are going to get around

Once you have decided on where you want to go based on your travel style and budget, it’s time to figure out how you’re going to get there . If you’re coming from the U.S., an airplane is in your future one way or another. A combination of planes and trains is common for European itineraries.

But, if you’re traveling from within the continent of Europe, train travel might be a better option for you.

Typically, if you are already in Europe, but are traveling from more than two or three countries away, it will be far more efficient to fly to your destination. But, if you are residing in France and want to visit Spain, just jump on the Eurail .

You’ll save time and money and will enjoy a beautiful trip through the countryside!

If you plan on visiting more off-the-beaten-path destinations in Europe like the Balearic Islands or Crete, then a boat is likely also in your future. Do plenty of research on the most efficient travel methods for your destination before assuming flights will be the best way to get somewhere!

Once you have figured out the best way to get to your destination, you’ll have to research how to get around your destination , as well. For big cities like Paris, London , or Berlin, I highly suggest taking advantage of their metro systems. They are quick, very affordable, and easy to use.

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, try to avoid renting cars in Europe by all means possible . Unless you plan on doing a self-driving tour of Ireland or Scotland, rental cars are very expensive and driving conditions are usually poor.

Instead, opt to rent bicycles or book buses , trolleys , or trains to get between cities. This will save you money and a ton of stress and worry!

Step 4: Check Your Documents

europe trip plan

Alright, you’re almost there! You’ve decided on what you want to do on your vacation, where you’re going to go, how you’re going to get there, and how you are going to get around once you’re there. All that’s left to do is book your trip now, right?!

Wrong. You need to double and triple-check all of your documents before booking any trips , especially if you are planning on departing within 6 months .

One of the most important things you can learn about how to plan a trip to Europe starts with learning from other people’s mistakes. Don’t fall victim to forgetting your ID or showing up with the wrong or expired document.

✔️ Pro Tip: Additionally, if you arrive at an international airport with a passport that is due to expire within 6 months or doesn’t have any open pages left, you may not be allowed to board the plane.

Before booking anything, be sure to confirm that your passport has available pages for stamping and won’t expire within 6 months of your travel dates. You’ll also want to take a look at your government-issued photo ID and check the expiration date, as well.

Typically, you’ll only need your passport, but having extra identification is always smart when traveling internationally.

If your documents are due to expire, be sure you have enough time to get them renewed before the start of your trip.

Passports can take anywhere from 2 weeks to 3 months to get renewed along with several fees, and licenses require a long trip to your local registry with additional fees and several items proving your identification, as well.

Once you have confirmed that all of your paperwork is in order, you can start getting ready to book your trip !

Step 5: Plan Your Route

europe trip plan

You have decided on whether you want to travel to one or multiple destinations, so now you can start planning your route! You can use Google Maps or the map at the bottom of this article to help you plan the most efficient way to get from one place to the next.

This is a big step in deciding how to plan a trip to Europe. Be careful not to get caught skipping over a country just to decide you want to turn around and go back to it.

You’ll waste precious travel time and we want to make sure you get the most out of your time in Europe!

The best way to ensure your route is efficient is to check the distances and travel times between each destination.

Be sure you don’t pass by one of your stops on the way to a different stop, and if you do, try rearranging your travel itinerary a little.

Step 6: Book It!

You cannot book random flights to any country, you first must know how to plan a trip to Europe

Now, don’t jump to the confirmation page just yet. Be sure to check your bank account and any credit card statements prior to booking to avoid any unwanted overdraw fees!

Once you have done that, then you can book your trip to Europe .

First, if your dates are not flexible, start with booking your flights . International flights are at their cheapest the further out you book and only drop on very specific days within a few weeks of departing which can be hard to track.

If you have flexible dates, consider looking at the available accommodations first. If there is somewhere you really want to stay but they only have room on certain days, consider shifting your dates a little.

Keep in mind, however, that this usually also affects the price of flights depending on the days of the week you fly. Tuesdays are typically the cheapest day to both book flights, depart, and return home.

Once you have your flights booked, go through your planned travel route and start booking your accommodations in order. If you’re traveling across France from the Alps up to Paris, start in Chamonix, then book your stay in Annecy, possibly Lyon, then Paris last if it’s the last stop in your journey.

Then, book any necessary plane, train, bus, or ferry travel between destinations. Once you’ve done this you’re all booked and ready to get to the airport… look at you learning how to plan a trip to Europe all on your own!

This is also the time you can choose to do a little more research on possible excursions or adventures if you so choose. We are big adventure travelers, so we went paragliding in the French Alps. I highly suggest this if you are looking for an adrenaline rush on your European vacation!

Step 7: Prepare to Leave

europe trip plan

Now, this may seem simple and to the point, but in fact, there are a lot of things that need to happen before you head to the airport. Just because you now know how to plan a trip to Europe, doesn’t mean you can forget about all of your prior responsibilities.

First, you need to prepare your home to be vacant. If you own a house, this can be a lot of work. If it’s summer, you may want to hire someone to mow your lawn , and if it’s winter, hiring someone to shovel your driveway in the case of a storm is a good idea, as well.

Ensure there are no dirty dishes or laundry left lying around and that the trash and recycling gets taken out to prevent coming home to any bad odors . It’s also a good idea to unplug any unnecessary items (i.e. toaster, microwave, chargers, etc.) to reduce the risk of an electrical fire while you’re away.

If you own pets, be sure to hire a pet sitter well in advance and make sure your pet is comfortable with them before leaving. Typically, I book my dog sitter 4 months in advance and always use the same sitter to ensure my dog will be comfortable with my absence.

Animals get stressed just like people do, so be sure to take this into consideration before booking your vacation.

Be sure to call your bank and let them know where you will be traveling, including layovers, and your travel dates. This will ensure that they don’t shut your credit or debit cards off for suspicion of fraudulent charges.

Also, call your phone provider if you would like to purchase a temporary international plan. Most plans range from $15-$50 and include unlimited texting and calling for 30 days.

Otherwise, just download WhatsApp and let anyone know who wants to get in touch with you that they’ll have to download the app and text you through it (completely free and works with wifi!)

Lastly, if you’re close with your neighbors or have family or friends that live nearby, it’s worth asking if they’ll check on your home once or twice while you’re gone.

Empty apartments and houses are, unfortunately, targets for unwanted visitors so letting someone close to you know you’ll be away is a good idea.

Step 8: Enjoy Yourself!

europe trip plan

You’ve made it to Europe! The dream destination you’ve always wanted to go to is finally here. You’ve gone through all the struggles of learning how to plan a trip to Europe, booked everything in sequence, aligned your trip with your schedule, and ensured everything was all set for you to leave.

Now, there’s simply nothing left to stress about and you can sit back and enjoy yourself. Stroll some streets, sample the cuisine, practice speaking the language with the locals, check out a few sights, and enjoy a freshly baked pastry and an espresso while people-watching.

Do whatever pleases you. Remember, there is no reason to rush through everything in order to get to the next item on your list. Really take the time to enjoy all of your hard work and planning and do what makes you happy.

+And if you’re traveling with others, be sure that they do the same. Most people are only allotted a few short weeks of time off from their jobs each year, so make the most of it!

One of my favorite travel quotes…

“Travel is not reward for working, it’s education for living” Anthony Bourdain 

3 Sample Itineraries for Europe

Now that you know how to plan a trip to Europe, it’s time to start designing your own! I have created 3 sample itineraries below to help you get started. Remember, make your budget and try to stick to it !

Otherwise, you may come to believe that traveling is too expensive for your lifestyle… and that’s simply just not the case. Anyone can travel on any budget, you just need to stick to your goals.

3 Days in Amsterdam

europe trip plan

Amsterdam is a wonderful city with a lively night scene, eccentric neighborhoods, and fun attractions. With neighborhoods geared towards college kids and young adults and museums and open-aired markets suitable for any crowd, this city packs a cultural punch with something for everyone.

In 3 days, you’ll have enough time to experience the nightlife, enjoy a boat ride through the meandering canals, take a peek inside the museums, and have your fair share of sampling their famous stroopwafels.

✔️ Day 1 : Canal Boat Tour & Rijksmuseum & Van Gogh Museum ✔️ Day 2 : Free Walking Tour of the City & Explore the Neighborhoods (Amsterdam Center, Jordaan, De Pijp, De Wallen) ✔️ Day 3 : Bloemenmarkt & Waterlooplein Flea Market

Free walking tours meet almost daily in Amsterdam and are typically organized by the local hostels. Just pop into one and see if they have any available that day, or even better, create your own with a local map!

One Week in France

europe trip plan

France offers some of the most beautiful landscapes, incredible wine and cuisine, and famous attractions in all of Europe. It would be impossible to see everything there is to see in one week, but you’ll still get to experience France’s genuine culture and unique flair!

✔️ Day 1 : Arrive in Chamonix, France & Stroll the Town ✔️ Day 2 : Paragliding in Chamonix or Bus to Annecy ✔️ Day 3 : Annecy & Le Palais de I’Île & Lake Annecy Boat Ride ✔️ Day 4 : Day Trip to Talloires. Explore the town and go for a Hike Overlooking Lake Annecy ✔️ Day 5 : Train from Annecy to Paris & Eiffel Tower & Arc de Triomphe ✔️ Day 6 : Notre Dame Cathedral & Le Louvre & Musée d’Orsay ✔️ Day 7 : Shopping on Champs-Élysées & Return Home

If you only have one week in France, you could easily spend the entirety of it in Paris, or you can venture out and see another small region. My favorite region in France is the Haute Savoie region which is absolutely beaming with charm and beauty.

It’s easily accessible by flying into Geneva, Switzerland and taking an hour-long bus ride or by arriving in Annecy by train and taking a bus to Chamonix. I do suggest starting with Chamonix and then heading to Annecy since you’ll need to go through Annecy to go up to Paris anyway and it will save you a bus ride.

As one of the most stunning regions in all of Europe and just a few hours from Paris, I highly recommend squeezing in a few days in these incredible towns!

2 Weeks in Spain and Portugal

europe trip plan

Spain and Portugal are a classic European itinerary combination that work very well together. With similar climates and activities, you won’t have a hard time packing and furthermore, they are both simply amazing.

One of my favorite backpacking trips in Europe was bouncing between Portugal and Spain, and I can honestly say it’s one of the most beautiful regions in the world.

With daily departures via both train and plane between the two, setting up this itinerary is a cinch! Both Spain and Portugal boast some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe and are well known for their indescribable cuisine, hospitable people, and unique culture.

In just two weeks, you’ll be able to cover a lot of ground and see some of the best sights these countries have to offer. I’ve created an itinerary below that encompasses beach days, hiking days, and sightseeing days.

If it’s your first time visiting Europe, I would suggest limiting the number of additional buses and trains you take to limit confusion. Also, check out my Greatest Tips for Traveling to Europe for the First Time !

✔️ Day 1 : Arrive in Barcelona & Arc de Triomf & La Sagrada Familia ✔️ Day 2 : Park Güell & Las Ramblas Street ✔️ Day 3 : Gothic Quarter & Barcelona Cathedral ✔️ Day 4 : Train to Valencia & Beach Day ✔️ Day 5 : Central Market & Valencia Cathedral ✔️ Day 6 : Train to Seville & Plaza de España ✔️ Day 7 : Royal Alcázar of Seville & Seville Cathedral ✔️ Day 8 : Train to Faro, Portugal & Sightseeing ✔️ Day 9 : Beach Day ✔️ Day 10 : Train to Lagos & Cave Kayaking ✔️ Day 11 : Beach Day ✔️ Day 12 : Train to Lisbon & Sightseeing ✔️ Day 13 : Day Trip to Cascais & Estoril. Cabo da Roca & Boca do Inferno ✔️ Day 14 : Day Trip to Sintra & Sintra Castle & Short Hike in the Park ✔️ Day 15 : Train to Lisbon and Return Home

This is my ultimate Spain and Portugal trip, but do your research and make some changes depending on if you want even more beach days or if you’d like to spend more time hiking! Spain is known for its mighty northern mountain ranges and Portugal’s Porto is packed with culture.

If you do decide to visit Cascais, be sure to check out the 10 Best Beaches in Cascais . Traveling on a budget but still want to visit Barcelona? Here are my top 25 Best Free Things to do in Barcelona !

Europe Trip Planner Map

Take a glance at this map to gauge the proximity of the countries you wish to explore. This will aid in your determination of whether to add or remove destinations, modify your travel route, and more!

FAQ: How to Plan a Trip to Europe

How do i organize my trip to europe.

Most people don't know how to plan a trip to Europe, which is why I've created a step-by-step process to help you get through the process with ease

Let’s face it, organizing a trip to Europe is a daunting task, to say the least. There is SO much to consider! Even just thinking about which countries to visit is a very hard choice, especially if you’re like me and enjoying everything from the mountains to the beaches and city life.

But, if you break the process down into more manageable steps, you’ll be far less likely to stress yourself out.

First, think about your priorities and make a list. The top of the list should be inclusive of your must-do’s and your must-see’s, while the bottom of the list will encompass everything that would be an added perk – great if it happens but not a problem if it doesn’t, so to speak.

From there, you’ll be able to identify which destinations are your top priority and you’ll have the information you need to organize a time- and cost-efficient trip to Europe!

Simply keep an eye on your budget and your time allowance to ensure you stay within your personal limitations.

How Far in Advance to Plan a Trip to Europe?

If you're wondering how to plan a trip to Europe and book your trip in advance, we have several good tips for you

Since we want you to follow the step-by-step process that we’ve laid out for you above, you’ll want to start planning your trip to Europe up to a year in advance. Any longer than that and accommodations can close down, travel requirements may change, and so forth.

When it comes to actually booking your trip, you can often find the best deals the further in advance you book for international travel. If you’re flying domestically or are coming from within Europe, this isn’t always the case.

✔️ Pro Tip: If you’re coming from outside of Europe, then I would recommend booking your flights as soon as you know your travel dates. The earlier the better. But, if you’re already in Europe, then 4-6 weeks before your travel date is usually the cheapest time to book.

How Do I Plan a 7 Day Trip to Europe?

europe trip plan

There are several options available if you’re planning a trip to Europe for 1 week, depending on the destinations you wish to see. To begin, decide on the countries or cities you would like to visit and then research different transportation options.

Flying is usually the most convenient method of travel, but rail and bus services can also be used. Once you’ve figured out your transportation, start looking into accommodation options in each city or country, as well as the cost of food and drinks.

It would be wise to compile a list of activities that you want to do during each day of your trip too. Take note of any attractions that you’d like to see, as well as restaurants or cafes you want to visit.

Having this information in advance will help you plan out your day-to-day activities much more efficiently. Consider whether a tour guide would be beneficial, particularly if it’s your first time visiting the area.

Be sure to take the time to look up local customs, laws and regulations. Depending on the country or city you’re visiting, certain cultural norms may be quite different from what you are used to. Additionally, make sure that you have appropriate travel documentation like visas and passport stamps where necessary.

It may sound daunting at first, but with a bit of research and organization, planning a seven day trip to Europe can be an exciting and rewarding experience! Good luck!

How to Plan a 15 Day Trip to Europe?

europe trip plan

Wondering how to plan a trip to Europe for 2 weeks? Fortunately, it’s pretty much the exact same process as planning a trip to Europe for 3 weeks, 5 weeks, 1 week, or 2 days.

You’ll still need to prioritize your activities and destinations before creating the itinerary itself. First, start with your budget and your time allowance, From there, figure out what you want to do and where you want to go.

Once you’ve done all that, start researching efficient travel methods (i.e. flights, trains, etc.) and planning your route. To save money, take a look at the best departure and arrival days for flights and ensure you have an accommodation for every night of your stay.

Planning a 15-day trip to Europe is relatively simple, but you’ll want to focus on time and cost efficiency. Avoid flying from Paris to Vienna then going back to Barcelona. I use Google Maps to ensure my routes are as efficient as possible, which is why I’ve included a map in this post.

What is the Cheapest Month to Travel to Europe?

Figuring out how to plan a trip to Europe is quite simple once you know your travel style

Most newbies heading to Europe have heard the same rumors time and time again… Europe is expensive !

And while these rumors aren’t wrong per se, there are a lot of gray areas here. Each country in Europe (there are over 40 of them) has an entirely different cost of living. Visiting France in July is going to cost a lot more than visiting Portugal in July.

With that being said, the shoulder seasons of March through May and September through October are the cheapest months to travel to Europe .

This is when most countries experience a decrease in tourism due to less desirable weather, a general lack of events or festivals going on, and it’s outside of the holiday season when Christmas markets are thriving.

With the decrease in tourism, flight costs significantly drop, tour agencies and hotels drop their rates, and even food prices go down. You can also find great deals on train travel between European countries!

In our experience, the shoulder season months are by far the cheapest time to visit Europe as a whole, but you’ll want to do some extra research on your particular destination if you’re on a tight budget.

How Much Money Do You Need to Travel Europe Comfortably?

If you want to know how to plan a trip to Europe on a budget, follow these steps

The average cost of a European vacation is going to vary drastically depending on several factors.

First, the countries that you visit will make all the difference . Portugal can be visited on a very tight college budget whereas Switzerland is often rated as the most expensive country in the world with budget options being few and far between.

Second, how long your trip is will make a big difference, as well. If a one week European vacation roughly costs you a few thousand dollars, then a two week European vacation will roughly cost 1.5x-1.75x as much.

Flights typically won’t change too much from the same destinations over the course of one week (day of the week will make prices vary greatly, however).

Lastly, your travel style is a big contender in determining the cost of your European vacation.

Depending on if you prefer budget or luxurious accommodations, don’t mind eating at food trucks or prefer sit-down restaurants, or are content with self-guided walking tours over full-day guided private tours, the cost of your trip will vary a lot .

So, to travel Europe comfortably, you’ll want to research the average cost of food, lodging, transportation, activities, and so forth in your preferred destination.

With this information, you’ll be able to create an informed estimate of how much money you should bring to comfortably travel to your European destination!

✔️ Pro Tip: There is no way to give an accurate average since these factors will drastically alter the cost of your vacation, but if you’re someone who likes numbers then be sure to take a peek at my article on tips for traveling to Europe for the first time .

Is $2000 Enough for a Europe Trip?

europe trip plan

Absolutely, $2000 can be enough for a Europe trip, but it entirely depends on your travel style. If you’re a backpacker who doesn’t mind staying in hostels, eating street food, and using public transportation, you could possibly spend even less!

However, if you prefer a bit more comfort and luxury, you might need to increase your budget.

How Much Should I Budget for a 3 Week Trip to Europe?

For a 3-week trip to Europe, your budget will largely depend on your personal preferences, travel style, the season, and the countries you plan to visit. On a shoestring budget, you might be able to pull it off with around $1800 – $2500, which will cover basic accommodation in hostels, cheap meals, public transportation, and modest entertainment.

If you prefer mid-range accommodations like budget hotels or Airbnbs, expect to spend somewhere between $2500 – $4500. This budget will also afford you the occasional nice meal and entrance to more attractions.

For a luxury experience, with high-end hotels, meals at top-notch restaurants, and private tours, expect to spend at least $6000 or more.

Remember, these are rough estimates and your actual spending might be different. The key is to plan ahead and keep track of your spending so that you know where your money is going.

Where Should I Go in Europe for the First Time?

europe trip plan

If this is your first trip to Europe, there are endless options for countries and European itineraries to choose from. Most common beginner trips to Europe begin in popular destinations such as London or Paris, which are great starting points.

However, if you already know you’re going to enjoy getting a little bit more off the beaten path, then I would recommend considering the options of less popular destinations like Budapest , Chamonix , Berlin , or Prague .

Even if you prefer to get out of the cities and explore more of the rural towns, these are great starting points to do so!

If you’re visiting Europe for the first time, be sure to check out my post on everything you need to know about traveling to Europe for the first time at the bottom of this post!

How to Plan a Trip to Europe on a Budget

europe trip plan

If you’re wondering how to plan a trip to Europe on a budget, I’ve got some great tips to help! I actually backpacked across 4 countries in Europe when I was just 20 years old, so I picked up a thing or two about how to see some of the world’s most beautiful countries on a tight budget.

✔️ First, don’t be fooled into thinking that you can’t visit expensive countries on a budget.

Of course, it will cost you more overall to visit a place with a higher cost of living, but you can always find cheap accommodations and travel arrangements.

You can also get a more in-depth guide on how I continue to travel Europe on a budget by entering your name and email in the guide at the end of this section!

✔️ Book Cheap Accommodations

So, keep an eye out for deals on accommodations. Hostels and Airbnb’s are very popular across Europe, so you can easily save hundreds of dollars just by booking one of these over a hotel.

You can also use websites like CouchSurfing to find cheap and even free places to stay. For the most part, this website is safe, however, you will always need to use your best judgment when staying with strangers.

Long-term accommodations like condos and apartments are often cheaper when booked on a weekly basis in comparison to nightly rates, as well.

✔️ Be Mindful of Where You Eat

Second, opt for buying food at local supermarkets, farmer’s markets, and food trucks . In Europe, the food quality is almost always superb, so there’s no need to always sit down at nice restaurants when the food is top-notch everywhere you go.

✔️ Be Your Own Guide

Also, create your own walking tour of the city or join a free one. Guided tours are fantastic if you have room in your budget, but if you don’t, then consider researching where the guided tours go with their guests then get yourself there on your own!

Usually, everything in Europe is reachable via walking, biking, or the metro, so there’s no reason to exclude an activity simply because you aren’t joining a tour.

✔️ Take Advantage of Public Transportation

Lastly, buy full-day or one-week metro passes when exploring a city . This is a far cheaper option than booking numerous single journeys.

Also, take the Eurail to get between countries ! Train travel is one of the best ways to score super cheap rates between major capital cities and even smaller, more rural towns.

The train is almost always cheaper than flying, though sometimes it will take 5x as long to get there.

Depending on how much room your budget has, be sure to research the difference in cost and travel time between flying and taking the train when creating your Europe itinerary.

How to Plan a Trip to Europe for 10 Days, 2 Weeks, 3 Weeks, or One Month

If you're wondering how to plan a trip to Europe for 10 days, take a look at the step-by-step process I've created for you

Whether you’re planning a trip to Europe for 10 days, 2 weeks, 3 weeks, or even one month, you’re going to follow the same steps that I have laid out above.

You’ll still need to determine your travel style, decide on your budget, and consider all of your options and what you want to include in your itinerary.

It’s also important to mention that if you’re traveling with other people, you’ll want to make sure that you take their thoughts and preferences into consideration, as well.

As a general guideline, you’ll need to remember that if you stay in Europe longer, then you’ll need to plan out more accommodations, trains, buses, and meals. That is, if you plan on moving around.

If you simply plan on picking one country and only moving to a new accommodation once a week or so, you’ll have very little extra planning to do.

So, depending on how much you know about how to plan a trip to Europe and how to get around Europe on your own, you may want to limit how much moving around you do.

What to Pack for Europe

Once you know how to plan a trip to Europe, you can start packing appropriately

Almost there!!

You’ve booked your trip, prepped your house, taken care of your pets, and now all that’s left is just packing your suitcase. However, figuring out how to pack for a trip to Europe can actually be harder than figuring out how to plan a trip to Europe. But, I’m here to help!

Europe has countries that hit every climate zone during every season of the year. If you are only visiting one country, you’ll have a much easier time packing than if you are traveling between multiple destinations, but you’ll still need a broad range of clothing to be comfortable.

Before throwing your entire wardrobe in your suitcase, check the weather of your destination(s). Plan out your outfits ahead of time, neatly fold and roll them up into small cylinders, and pack them into your packing cubes .

If you don’t have packing cubes yet, be sure to check out my article on the Top Things You Must Include On Your Europe Travel Essentials List !

✔️ First things first…always, always, always, pack a rain jacket .

No matter what. Even if there is no chance of rain, pack one anyway. Due to the vast coastline and sky-high mountain ranges in Europe, the weather can change drastically in just a few hours.

One minute you can be soaking up the sun on Barceloneta Beach and the next you could be running to the nearest restaurant to escape a rogue thunderstorm.

✔️ Next, be absolutely sure to pack comfortable and supportive walking shoes

You’re going to be walking over uneven cobblestoned streets and putting a lot of miles on your feet (especially if you’re traveling on a budget!)

Bring along a nice pair of shoes for when you want to go out and look nice, but good walking shoes are essential for a pleasant trip.

✔️ Bring layers

In addition to the weather shifting frequently, the temperature also drops vastly at night. Even in the summer when you’re expecting to walk around in your bathing suit at the beach all day, you should expect low temperatures in the 60s once the sun starts going down.

This means you’ll most likely be comfortable in pants and a light sweater, rather than a bikini.

✔️ Lastly, don’t overpack !

I can’t express this one enough. Traveling is a little bit of a hassle anyway, so lugging around extra items with you across multiple countries is just going to cause frustration.

Plan your outfits ahead of time and add a rain jacket, your shoes (2 pairs maximum if you’re going for a week or less), and an extra warming layer or two and you’re good to go.

How To Travel Around Europe On A Budget

With just pennies to my name, I figured out how to travel to some of the most expensive countries in Europe! ​ ​

Get my simple 5-step guide on how I have saved thousands on European travel by subscribing below.

Hint : You won’t be staying in hostels!

europe trip plan

Learning how to plan a trip to Europe is no easy feat, so be sure to pat yourself on the back if you’ve followed my steps and were successful in booking a trip! Europe is so full of wonder and magic, it’s not hard to see why so many people fall in love with it.

Each and every country has so much diversity and a multitude of sights and adventures to offer, you really can’t go wrong.

So now that you know how to plan a trip to Europe, be sure to teach your friends and family! Plan a friend’s trip, a family trip, or even a romantic getaway for your parents’ anniversary. Whatever the occasion, Europe is always a good idea!

Other Helpful Resources for Europe

✔️ The Ultimate Europe Bucket List: 101 Experiences to Have in Europe ✔️ Packing List for Europe in Winter: A Full Country by Country Guide ✔️ Minimalist Packing List for Females Traveling to Europe ✔️ 5 Things You Must Include on Your Travel Essentials List ✔️ Backpacking Europe Routes for 2 Weeks: Routes & Tips ✔️ European Honeymoon Itinerary: 9 Incredible Options for 1 Week, 2 Weeks, + 1 Month ✔️ 30+ Best Places to Visit in Europe in December ✔️ 73 Best Places to Visit in Europe in January 2024 ✔️ 25 Best Places in Europe for New Years Celebrations ✔️ 30+ BEST Places to Visit in Europe in March 2024 ✔️ 30+ BEST Places to Visit in Europe in April 2024 ✔️ Is Azerbaijan in Europe? The Facts for 2024 ✔️ Is Norway in Europe? Norway & the EEA EFTA States ✔️ Is Denmark in Europe? The EU, the Danish Krone, & Its Territories Explained

Now that you know how to plan a trip to Europe , start planning your next trip abroad!

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Hey there! I'm Emily Concannon, a seasoned globetrotter who has backpacked her way across over a dozen European countries, immersing myself in the diverse cultures, languages, and cuisines of the region.

My passion for travel transcends personal experiences; I've spent years learning how to transform my globetrotting knowledge into personalized itineraries for fellow travelers worldwide.

With a tally of 26 countries (and counting!) under my belt, my day job involves extensive research on different countries which often leads me to booking a new adventure every chance I get!

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20 one-week europe trip itinerary ideas.

One Week Europe Itinerary Ideas

Wondering where to spend one week in Europe? These 20 ideas for your Europe trip will help you decide how to maximize your time.

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How to Choose the Best One Week Itinerary for a Europe Trip: 20 Europe Itinerary Ideas

If you’re like most people and getting time off work or kids out of school is challenging, you may only be able to manage one week of vacation. Europe is a great destination to go for one week, simply because of the cultural diversity in such a small geographic area.

The small size, proximity, and ease of transportation between many of the countries in Europe make it a good choice for a culturally rich one week holiday. If you’ve only got one week in Europe, and really want to maximize your time, but you’re wondering where to go in Europe, here are 20 perfect one-week Europe travel itineraries.

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If you're heading to Europe and only have one week to enjoy it, try one of these 20 one week European itineraries that will help you make the most of your time. #Europe #Itinerary #Vacation

  • Before You go to Europe

Europe is an amazing destination, especially if you pick any of these awesome itineraries, but before leaving there are a few things you should consider when planning your Europe trip:

  • KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: Before you go to Europe, be sure you follow my 50 travel tips for Europe. You can find those here. 

And the winter months are generally cold in most European countries, especially in the north.That doesn’t mean you should avoid those times, it just depends on your tolerance for crowds and your preference in weather.

  • WHAT TO PACK FOR EUROPE: What you pack for Europe will highly depend on what time of year you go and where you decide to go. This  packing guide for Europe will ensure you have the essentials.
  • GETTING AROUND: Getting around Europe can be a little daunting, but if you do some research before you go, you’ll be just fine. Transportation in every country in Europe is a little different. I’ve linked many of my articles with helpful advice below like   How to Survive Train Travel in Italy   and   Driving in Scotland . Some itineraries will require you to go by train, car, plane or boat. Travel around Europe doesn’t have to be scary if you learn what to do ahead of time.

If you’re renting a car, there are two companies we prefer to use: Rental Cars and Expedia Cars. We have had no issues with them and have been able to find the best prices available.

What to do in Europe for One Week: 20 European Vacation Ideas for Your Europe Trip

These are my best one week vacations in Europe. Taking a multi city European vacation can be a great way to experience several different cultures on one continent. I know that one week in Europe isn’t a lot of time, so I’ve picked cities that are either close in proximity or a quick and cheap flight between each other.

I’ve also tried to choose each Europe travel itinerary with a mix of classic sites and unique destinations. There are so many cool places to visit in Europe that are still undiscovered. Hopefully, some of these locations will be new to you and you’ll be able to discover a new European favorite!

Here's a Short Cut

1 | Amalfi Coast + Rome

2 | paris + london, 3 | ireland + iceland, 4 | heidelberg, germany + strasbourg, france, 5 | colmar, france + basel, switzerland, 6 | interlaken + lucerne, switzerland, 7 | lake como, italy + zermatt, switzerland, 8 | paris + normandy, 9 | iceland and the scottish highlands, 10 | venice and lake como, 11 | the ionian islands, greece, 12 | ireland + northern ireland, 13 | edinburgh + scottish highlands, 14 | colmar + strasbourg, 15 | loire valley + paris, 16 | london + cotswolds, 17 | cinque terre + florence, 18 | prague + vienna, 19 | budapest + bratislava, 20 | lucca + sardinia, 21 | lisbon + algarve, 22 | vienna + hallstatt + salzburg , 23 | croatia + montenegro, 24 | budapest + bratislava + vienna, practical tips for booking your trip.

Europe Itinerary- 20 Europe Trip Ideas

This is one of my very favorite European vacation destinations. There are hundreds of choices for stunning history and scenery when you visit Italy, but this Amalfi Coast and Rome itinerary gives you the best of both worlds. Rome is one of the top places to visit in Europe and offers history around every corner…literally, while on the Amalfi Coast you will be overwhelmed by breathtaking ocean views.

Spend several days in Rome, then head south to the Amalfi Coast via Naples and spend a few more relaxing on the beach and driving the coast. It’s one of the best European beach vacations you can take! Amalfi is also one of the most popular Europe vacation spots during the month of August, so you may want to take that into consideration when planning your trip.

Check out these other 5 amazing itineraries for Italy.  Italy is one of the best countries to visit in Europe due to its size and variety of landscapes, cultures, and attractions.

GETTING THERE: Fly into Rome

GETTING BETWEEN CITIES: Getting from Rome to Amalfi is easy. Take the train from Rome to Naples, from there take the bus to Sorrento. There are many tour buses that travel along the coast, or you can rent a car and do the driving yourself.

WHERE TO STAY Rome | Amalfi RESOURCES How to Spend One Day in Rome Family Guide to Rome How to Spend 2 Days in Naples How to Survive Train Travel in Italy The Best Places to Visit in Italy How to Spend 10 Days in Italy Tips for Renting a Car in Europe i Heart Italy

Europe Trip Itinerary

If you’re looking for a European vacation with a lot of history and class, this is it! I can’t even count the number of times that I have done the Paris/London combo. I’ve done it with kids, as a couple, as a girls’ trip, and as a field trip. No joke! And every time I go, it’s like completely different cities. You can follow completely different options for London and Paris itineraries and have an amazing time no matter what you choose. In my opinion, these are two of the best cities to visit in Europe as they offer a huge amount of culture, food, and entertainment bang for your buck!

When I plan our family trip to Europe each year, I make sure to always include both Paris and London. These are two of my favorite places in all of Europe. They are popular for good reason. Both Paris and London are so vast and diverse that you can have a new experience each time you visit. The best part about visiting these two cities is that they are very easy to travel between with the help of the Eurostar. It’s a quick journey from the heart of one city to the next that requires no airports, no flying, and no hassle. Note: You will need a   passport or visa   to travel between England and France and you will need to go through customs before boarding the Eurostar.

I’ve created an easy-to-use day-by-day itinerary for Paris and London so that you can show up and enjoy your trip. 

europe trip plan

GETTING THERE: Fly into London or Paris GETTING BETWEEN CITIES: Take the Eurostar

WHERE TO STAY Paris | London

RESOURCES Paris Walking Guide Paris with Kids Foods You Must Try in Paris Paris Neighborhood Guide How to Use the Paris Bike System London Travel Guide Perfect London Itinerary London with Kids Christmas in London Paddington’s Guide to London How to Use the Paris Bike System

Europe Trip Itinerary Ideas

If you’re looking for a European vacation with wild nature and rural beauty, this option is a winner. While both of these spectacular islands really deserve their own week (or weeks really), a trip combining the two is possible, thanks to affordable flights between Iceland and Ireland. A good route would be Reykjavik and the Golden Circle, combined with the west of Ireland including Killarney, the Ring of Kerry, and the Cliffs of Moher. These countries are some of the best places to go in Europe if you love majestic natural beauty.

GETTING THERE:  Fly into Iceland as its one of the cheapest ways to get to Europe. GETTING BETWEN COUNTRIES:  From Iceland , take a quick flight to Ireland. Dublin , Belfast , Cork, or Shannon Airports are usually where you’ll find the best deals.

WHERE TO STAY Ireland | Iceland

RESOURCES Iceland on a Budget Bucket List Things to do in Iceland Iconic Things to do in Dublin Day Trips from Dublin What to do in Killarney Perfect Ireland Itinerary Ireland with Kids Ireland Packing List

Europe Trip Itinerary Ideas

This one-week European itinerary includes two of my favorite cities in Europe! Heidelberg, Germany, known for its ancient castle and walkable downtown is a perfect companion to Strasbourg, France only an hour and a half away, in the Alsace region of France, known for its impressive cathedral and half-timber houses. These towns are particularly spectacular during the Christmas season and some of the best places to spend Christmas in Europe. This will be the best Europe itinerary for those looking to spend time in provincial looking towns!

GETTING THERE:  Fly into Frankfurt, Germany GETTING BETWEEN COUNTRIES:  Drive for 1.5 hours or take the train for 1.5 hours.

WHERE TO STAY Heidelberg | Strasbourg

RESOURCES Best European Christmas Markets European Christmas Market Treats What to do in Strasbourg What to do in Heidelberg, Germany What to do in Strasbourg, France

Europe Trip Itinerary Ideas

If you want to spend your Europen vacation wandering charming streets and feeling like you’re in a fairytale, this is it. Basel, Switzerland holds a special place in my heart and is often an overlooked town. Only a quick 45-minute train ride from the popular and iconic Colmar, France, Basel offers a unique culture that only a town on the border of three countries can. Basel is especially fun during Herbstmesse, the local Autumn Fair when the city literally turns into a fair! Combine these two beautiful cities for a one-of-a-kind holiday.

GETTING THERE: Fly into Basel or Zurich GETTING BETWEEN CITIES:  Drive 45 minutes or Train 30 minutes

WHERE TO STAY Colmar |  Basel

RESOURCES What to do in Basel Guide to Colmar, France

Europe Trip Itinerary Ideas

No European vacation list would be complete without including the unimaginable beauty of the Swiss Alps. Switzerland is a wonderland of natural beauty for the outdoor enthusiast or even anyone who has a remote interest in pretty scenery! It’s one of the best countries in Europe for those who love outdoor activity and natural beauty. It’s just jaw-droppingly gorgeous.

For such a small country, there is so much to see and with two of Switzerland most breathtaking areas just a few hours from each other, it’s worth visiting both of them. These areas offer pristine lakes, ancient gorges, colossal mountains, and a vast array of cultural activities.

GETTING THERE: Fly into Zurich, Switzerland GETTING BETWEEN CITIES: Train to Lucerne, Train to Interlaken

WHERE TO STAY Interlaken | Lucerne

RESOURCES Switzerland Itinerary Swiss Food Guide Switzerland Packing List 24 Hours in Zurich What to do in Interlaken What to do in Lucerne

One Week Europe Itinerary

If you’d like your Europe trip to have a good mix of beach and mountain time, this is the perfect combination. Lake Como is probably one of my top favorite places on the planet. It is totally magical and peaceful, and I’ve written about it multiple times and helped friends and family plan trips there. Don’t skip Lake Como on your next trip to Italy. One of my favorite parts of Lake Como is its proximity to the Swiss border. You can actually hike over the borer and into Switzerland! But if you’d rather not hike, hop in the car and take a trip to Zermatt, Switzerland, home of the famous towering mountain, Matterhorn.

GETTING THERE: Fly into Milan, Italy GETTING BETWEEN CITIES: Drive 3 hours to Zermatt or take a 4 hour Train ride from Milan

WHERE TO STAY Lake Como | Zermatt

RESOURCES Guide to Lake Como Boating Lake Como Guide to Zermatt Best Places to Visit in Italy How to Spend 10 Days in Italy i Heart Italy

Europe Trip Itinerary Ideas

This is a European vacation full of charm, but also a healthy dose of history and reality. A Paris-Normandy itinerary of Europe combines all the glamor and romance of the city of light with the charm, history, and beauty of Northern France. Spend several days in Paris, taking several day trips, including the impressive floating Mont Saint Michel. This area is one of the best places to visit in Europe for history lovers.

GETTING THERE: Fly into Paris GETTING BETWEEN CITIES: Drive 3 hours

WHERE TO STAY Paris | Normandy

RESOURCES Paris Itinerary Paris Walking Guide Paris with Kids Foods You Must Try in Paris Paris Neighbgorhood Guide Guide to Normandy Guide to Visiting Mont Saint Michel France with Kids

Europe Trip Itinerary Ideas

Two naturally and culturally beautiful countries are just a short and cheap flight apart and a great combination for a one-week European itinerary, although both countries could take weeks to explore on their own.  Spend a few days in Iceland, then take a cheap hopper flight and explore the mystical highlands of Scotland.

GETTING THERE: Fly into Reykjavik GETTING BETWEEN COUNTRIES: Fly into Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, or Aberdeen

WHERE TO STAY Iceland | Scotland

RESOURCES Iceland on a Budget Scotland Itinerary What to do in Inverness What to do on the Isle of Skye Scotland Packing List

Europe Trip Itinerary Ideas

Some of my favorite Italian destinations, Venice and Lake Como, both built on water, are ideal locations for aquatic enthusiasts. Taking a ride on a gondola in Venice is one of the best things to do in Europe! Take the Vaporetto (water bus) in Venice, then take a short drive or train ride to Lake Como and enjoy boating and relaxing on the beach in one of the adorable villages lining the lake.

GETTING THERE: Fly into Venice or Milan GETTING BETWEEN CITIES: 3.5 hours by car or 10 hours by train

WHERE TO STAY Venice | Lake Como

RESOURCES Guide to Lake Como Boating Lake Como Surviving Train Travel in Italy Guide to Venice Best Places to Visit in Italy How to Spend 10 Days in Italy i Heart Italy

Europe Trip Itinerary Ideas

If you’re interested in cheap Europe trips, the gorgeous Ionian islands of Greece are one of the best-kept secrets in Europe. Naturally and culturally diverse, affordable, and downright beautiful, Kefalonia and Corfu make great choices for one week in Europe.

Explore ancient ruins, relax on pristine beaches with locals, and dine, affordably, like a Greek god. If you’re travelling Europe on a budget, this is a great option and Greece is one of the best places to visit in Europe in summer if you’re looking for gorgeous beaches at affordable prices.

GETTING THERE: Fly into Kefalonia from London on Ryanair GETTING BETWEEN ISLANDS: Take a ferry between the Ionian Islands from Greek Ferries

WHERE TO STAY Kefalonia | Corfu

RESOURCES Guide to Kefalonia Greece The Ionian Islands The Best Beaches on Corfu What to Wear in Greece Guide to Athens

Europe Trip Itinerary Ideas

Two countries on one island? Yep! Take a visit to Ireland AND Northern Ireland. Two countries that are very similar, but also very different. Explore the entire island with this perfect itinerary.

GETTING THERE: Fly into Dublin or any airport in Ireland GETTING BETWEEN COUNTRIES: Rent a Car. Driving in Ireland can be tricky and slow, but worth the views and the adventure.

WHERE TO STAY Ireland | Northern Ireland

RESOURCES The Best Places to Visit in Ireland Perfect Ireland Itinerary Ireland with Kids What to do in Killarney Scotland and Ireland Itinerary Ireland Packing List

Europe Trip Itinerary Ideas

Scotland is one country that should really be given an entire week. You could definitely say that about any destination, but for a relatively small country, but it has so much to offer that you could spend years here and not see it all.

For one week in Scotland, I recommend visiting Edinburgh and the Scottish Highlands, including the Isle of Skye. Read here for an entire Scotland Itinerary, here for Edinburgh , here for Inverness and the Highlands , and here for the Isle of Skye.

GETTING THERE:  Flying into Edinburgh is usually the cheapest option. GETTING BETWEN AREAS:  It’s best to rent a car or hire a driver or tour company. Be sure to read my guide to driving in Scotland.  

WHERE TO STAY Ediburgh | Inverness | Isle of Skye

RESOURCES Perfect Scotland Itinerary What to do in Edinburgh What to do in Inverness What to do on the Isle of Skye Scotland Packing List

Europe Trip Itinerary Ideas

What could be more charming than a week spent in these “poor provincial towns.” Ok, so they’re definitely not poor or provincial, but you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into Belle’s hometown from Beauty and the Beast .

The ancient half-timber homes built along scenic rivers provide a feast for the eyes, while the patisseries, boulangeries, shops, and restaurants provide a feast for the tongue. Split your time between these two idyllic towns and enjoy a peaceful trip back in time.

If you visit Colmar or Strasbourg during Christmas, these towns will be even more magical! Strasbourg is known as “The Capital of Christmas” and both towns have incredible Christmas markets and decorations!

GETTING THERE:  Fly into Zurich GETTING BETWEEN COUNTRIES:  30 minutes by train or 1 hour by car

WHERE TO STAY Colmar | Strasbourg

RESOURCES 24 Hours in Zurich Guide to Colmar Guide to Strasbourg The Most Magical European Christmas Markets Must-Have European Christmas Market Treats 

One Week Europe Trip Itinerary

Divide your time between the ancient and modern city of light and the historic Loire Valley , home to magnificent palaces, stunning gardens, and green pastures. This one-week itinerary is the perfect balance between city and country life and will provide you with a mix of excitement, peace, and romance. It can be hard to squeeze everything you want into one week European itineraries, but this is a must!

Be sure to map out the castles and palaces you want to see along the way. Our favorite is Chenonceau ! Don’t miss it!

GETTING THERE: Fly into Paris GETTING AROUND:  Rent a car and drive two hours to the Loire Valley

WHERE TO STAY Loire Valley | Paris

RESOURCES Walking Guide to Paris Paris with Kids Day Trips from Paris Foods You Must Try in Paris Guide to the Loire Valley 15 Affordable Castles You Can Stay In

Europe Trip Itinerary Ideas

This London and Cotswolds Itinerary provides the best of both British worlds, encompassing both the hustle and bustle of one of the world’s oldest and largest cities and the peace and tranquility of the quaint cottage speckled Cotswolds.

As much as I love London (it’s my favorite city), I do get tired of the crowds and the constant noise. It is so refreshing to get into the countryside and have a change of scenery during your time in London. The Cotswolds are a fairytale-like dream trip. Be sure to grab cream tea every chance you get!

GETTING THERE: Fly into one of three London Airports GETTING AROUND: Rent a car and explore the whole Cotswolds area

WHERE TO STAY London | Cotswolds

RESOURCES London Travel Guide Complete Guide to London Perfect London Itinerary London with Kids Paddington’s Guide to London Christmas in London Guide to the Cotswolds

Europe Trip Itinerary Ideas

I call this itinerary the best of Northern Italy. Italy is huge and has so much to offer geographically and culturally, but one of my favorite parts of Italy is the train system. The trains in Italy allow for easy access to most major sites, but it can be slightly confusing, so be sure to read this guide to train travel in Italy before you go. Getting between Florence and Cinque Terre is simple with the right knowledge.

The great thing about this itinerary is that you will get to see a big city full of culture, history, and art, and also spend time swimming at the beach and on a boat soaking up rays in in the Liguerian Sea. Read here for Florence, here for Cinque Terre, here for Trains in Italy.

GETTING THERE: Fly into Florence GETTING BETWEEN CITIES: Two hours by train

WHERE TO STAY Cinque Terre | Florence

RESOURCES Guide to Cinque Terre Guide to Florence How to Survive Train Travel in Italy Best Places to Visit in Italy How to Spend 10 Days in Italy

Europe Itinerary

I think Prague and Vienna might be some of the most underrated cities in Europe, and they are worth dedicating an entire week to. Stunning architecture, delicious cuisine, and cultural activities abound in these cities that are just a few hours apart.

GETTING THERE: Fly into Vienna or Prague GETTING BETWEEN CITIES: 3-hour drive or 4-hour train ride

WHERE TO STAY Prague | Vienna

RESOURCES One Day in Prague What to do in Vienna

One Week European Itinerary

If you’re looking for cheap European vacations, the farther east you go, the cheaper it generally gets. These are two cities that had never really been on my bucket list, and to be honest, I had never even heard of Bratislava, which is in Slovakia by the way! Both cities are charming and culturally rich. They are especially festive and beautiful around Christmas time.

Bratislava is on the way between Budapest and Vienna (you can even cycle between Budapest and Vienna ) and Budapest and Prague, so if you’re thinking of doing a combination of any of those cities, it’s a great stop.

GETTING THERE: Fly into Budapest GETTING BETWEEN CITIES: 2 hours by car, 2.5 hours by train

WHERE TO STAY Budapest | Bratislava

RESOURCES What to do in Budapest European Christmas Markets What to do in Bratislava

Europe Trip Itinerary Ideas

These incredible destinations in Italy are not well known, but that is part of the appeal. I would say they are a good option for a cheaper and less crowded alternative to the  Florence and Cinque Terre itinerary.

Lucca is a walled city in Tuscany offering stunning architecture and culture with great family fun activities such as riding bikes along the top of the medieval wall around the city. Sardinia is a heavenly island, just a ferry ride away full of breathtaking beaches, delicious food, and friendly locals. Known as one of the five blue zones in the world- places in the world where people live longer and healthier than anywhere else on earth-Sardinia will make you feel younger and more alive just by visiting.

GETTING THERE: Fly into Rome or Florence GETTING BETWEEN DESTINATIONS: Take a Ferry from Civitavecchia to Olbia

WHERE TO STAY Lucca | Sardinia

RESOURCES One Day in Rome What to do in Lucca Sardinia Best Places to Visit in Italy How to Spend 10 Days in Italy What to Wear in Italy

europe trip plan

Portugal is a beautiful country full of diverse landscapes, amazing beaches, and cultural city centers. Lisbon is a stunning city and the Algarve region in the south of Portugal offers sunny beaches with world-famous surfing. There are some really cheap flights to Lisbon from the US right now and you can either drive, train, bus, or fly to the Algarve easily. As a southern European country, Portugal is a great choice for a winter destination. We were there last January and could still get in the water. There are many towns to choose from in the Algarve and they are all equally unique and beautiful. 

GETTING THERE: Fly into Lisbon GETTING BETWEEN DESTINATIONS: Take a plane, car, or bus to the Algarve.

The Perfect Portugal Itinerary

europe trip plan

This one week in Europe spent in Austria is a dream. Combining the culture of Vienna and Salzburg with the picturesque feel of Hallstatt, it’s sure to satisfy any traveler. In my opinion, this is a great winter destination if you don’t mind the cold. Vienna and Salzburg have several amazing Christmas markets and Hallstatt is simply a dream to see in the snow! 

GETTING THERE: Fly into Vienna GETTING BETWEEN DESTINATIONS: Take a train to Salzburg (2.5 hours). A great way to see Hallstatt is to take a day trip from Salzburg.

Hallstatt Day Trip

European Christmas Markets

Christmas Market Treats

europe trip plan

If you’re into coastal towns, walled cities, and breathtaking scenery, this combination is for you. The Dalmation Coast is absolutely stunning. The bordering country of Montenegro is really the hidden gem of Europe, offering the same draw as Croatia, but with far fewer tourists. I recommend going during shoulder season (April-May or September-October) to be able to enjoy warmer weather with fewer crowds. 

GETTING THERE: Fly into Dubrovnik, Croatia  GETTING BETWEEN DESTINATIONS:  Take a Day Trip to Montenegro

europe trip plan

Two of the most underrated cities in Europe if you ask me, Budapest and Bratislava are both cities that offer an amazing array of culture and also incredible food. If you’re up for the cold weather, these cities all have incredible Christmas markets and stunning decorations around the holidays. These cities are also all connected by rail so you can easily navigate between them. 

GETTING THERE: Fly into Vienna or Budapest GETTING BETWEEN DESTINATIONS: Take the train between each city. Bratislava would be a good day trip from Vienna.

25 | Berlin + Prague

europe trip plan

If you love history and architecture, then these two cities will captivate you! Split your time between the two, rent a car and take a road trip between them to enjoy some beautiful scenery. 

GETTING THERE: Fly into either Berlin or Prague, whichever airport is cheaper.  GETTING BETWEEN DESTINATIONS: Rent a car and take a road trip between Berlin and Prague.

Whichever Europe Itinerary you choose, you’re guaranteed to love it. You can definitely see so much of Europe in a week and you really can’t go wrong with any of these choices. Just remember to relax and enjoy and also remember that this probably won’t be the last Europe trip of your lifetime.

Not the Trip You Need?

Not exactly the trip you’re looking for? Don’t worry, I also offer custom trip planning by request for many destinations! Learn more here.

Book Your Flight s and Car Find a budget airlines by using  Skyscanner . This is my favorite way to search for flights because they crawl websites and airlines around the globe, so you always know you’re getting the best deal. Learn more tips for finding the best flight deals here. For cars, I like to use Rental Cars because they have good filters and its easy to search for multiple companies.

Book Your Accommodation My preferred way to stay around the world is VRBO . I find it usually gives you a unique local experience in any destination. If you want to stay in a hotel, use  Booking , as it consistently gives the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels. I use them both all the time.

Always Get Travel Insurance Travel insurance protects you and your family against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s peace of mind in case anything goes wrong. I never travel without it. I’ve been using World Nomads for the last few years and love how easy it is to use. I have also used Allianz . Compare rates to see which is best for the coverage you need.

Looking for ways to save money on travel? Check out my  resource page  for the companies I use for traveling! I share everything I use to save me time and money.

europe trip plan

Wanderlust Crew

9 thoughts on “ 20 one-week europe trip itinerary ideas ”.

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Hi there, My husband and I will be celebrating our 20th anniversary next March and would love to go somewhere in Europe for a week. I have only been to Italy (over 20 years ago) and he’s never been. I’m a bit overwhelmed by even trying to figure out where to go. Can you help? Thanks! Hannah

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Hi Hannah. I can definitely help! I’ve got several Italy Itinerary ideas for Italy here: https://wanderlustcrew.com/10-days-in-italy/ I also do custom trip planning, specifically for Italy, if you’re interested in that, you can find more info here: https://wanderlustcrew.com/custom-travel-planning/ Italy will be so much fun! One of my favorite places on earth! xo Vanessa

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Very helpful! Thank you. We are planning a one year stay & this helped with our itinerary tremendously.

Oh that sounds amazing! You’ll see so much!

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Great ideas! We hope we’ll be able to travel to Europe again soon!

Thanks so much! Me too! Going as soon as it’s safe!!

Pingback: Backpacking around Italy with kids - Travel Mad Mum tips

Pingback: How to Find the Best Gelato in Italy! | I Heart Italy

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Very good these tips I was even thinking about taking a vacation for a few days, thank you

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Two Week Traveller

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

4 IMAGES - colourful houses in bergen, london tower, colosseum in rome, and buildings by the sea - 2-Weeks in Europe Itinerary

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

2 images - sunset over cordoba, spain and dome church in venice - 2-weeks in europe

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.

2 images - bavarian houses in germany and st mary church in krakow, poland - 2-weeks in europe

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 .

2 images - aerial view of Trakai Castle and snowy tallin - 2-weeks in europe

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.

2 images -city view of budapest and aerial view of dubrovnik, croatia - 2-weeks in europe

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.

2 images - colourful houses in bergen, norway and northern lights in iceland - 2-weeks in europe

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.

2 images - tulip field with two windmills in netherlands and tower clock of london

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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How to Plan a Trip to Europe (2-Week Europe Itinerary)

If you’ve been wanting to visit Europe for a while, you’re probably super excited to begin planning your trip and building your Europe itinerary. In this post, we’re going to show you how to plan a trip to Europe that you’ll never forget!

We know from experience that planning a trip to Europe can be quite overwhelming because there are so many places to go and things to see. You want to make sure you add everything possible to your Europe itinerary. Believe me, we understand how important travel planning is!

Venice canal

We’ve been traveling around Europe for more than 10 years. We now spend at least 2 weekends per month traveling in Europe. That’s why we’ve prepared this Europe trip planner for you.

If you have at least 10 days to spend in Europe, this itinerary will cover all the top spots you must see. Do keep in mind that traveling in Europe can be expensive. You also have to be very wise in your planning to make everything fit together perfectly.

You can fly between cities cheaply if you plan it right. Or you can plan to travel with the Eurail Pass, though this option will take longer.

Let’s get your dream European vacation started. Here’s how to plan a trip to Europe, and see as much as humanly possible in 10-14 days.

Quick. Check these necessities off your prep list!

  • Travel insurance : Travelex has reliable coverage at a reasonable price. You can search for the insurance you need on their website, and filing a claim is easy.
  • The right luggage can make or break your trip. These hard-sided suitcases come in all different sizes, with spinner wheels and TSA-approved lock.
  • Renting a car? Discover Cars helps you search and compare offers from all the top companies. Don’t forget to check if you need an International Drivers License.

Table of Contents

Where to Go in Europe

Europe is full of history, bustling cities, incredible sights, unique places to stay , and – my favorite – amazing food! There are a good number of tourist destinations that just about anyone planning a trip to Europe would want to include in the itinerary.

But, obviously, with just 10-14 days in Europe, there’s no way you can cover them all. We’ve chosen the top destinations that we feel you can fit comfortably into 10+ days.

Planning for Europe? Here’s more…

  • How to Plan a 2-Week Trip to Europe

Ultimate Summer Europe Packing Guide

  • 11 Charming Small Towns & Cities in Europe

The Louvre in Paris

Here are the top destinations we recommend visiting in 10+ days in Western Europe: London (I’m still considering this Europe even if it’s no longer in the EU), Paris , Venice , Rome , Berlin , and Amsterdam .

We love all of these cities for different reasons as you’ll see below, but if you can’t fit them all in, you might need to decide between them. For instance, if you’re wondering if should I visit Paris or Rome , consider aspects like cost, activities, and your own personal interest in those activities.

If you have additional time, you could add Munich , Barcelona , Dublin , and/or Edinburgh . We also suggest checking out some of the more charming and small towns in Europe . Or maybe you’re into history – there are so many great medieval towns to visit .

You might want to take a look at this post with 50 of the best street food destinations in Europe before you decide where to go. There are quite a few that would persuade me.

How to Spend 2 Weeks in Western Europe

There are really two perfectly acceptable ways to take a vacation in Europe. Either way can be quite rewarding, but it depends greatly on your travel style how much time you want to put into planning, and what trips you are looking to book for.

Option 1: Book a pre-planned guided tour

A guided tour is the easiest option, by far. While Europe is very easy to get around for travelers, it can be difficult to figure out how to get from place to place, and very tedious trying to decide what to do in each location.

A pre-planned tour won’t give you the same freedom to do what you want, but it is completely planned out for you and you will always have a guide along to help you with anything you need.

Option 2: Plan your own trip

Planning your own self-guided tour of Europe gives you ultimate freedom to choose what you want to do and when. You can go to the places you want, without a group to tag along with.

The drawbacks are that you have to plan it all out yourself, which can be daunting.  Check out these additional Europe travel tips to help with your planning.

We will give you the options for both below, including a pre-planned tour we highly recommend and a 14-day self-guided itinerary to follow.

Paris France Eiffel Tower

Guided Tour of Europe

If you want to try a guided tour, I recommend a Classic Europe 14-day tour.

This tour is run by Expat Explore Travel and includes everything except International airfare, extra excursions that aren’t in the tour itinerary, and personal incidentals.

» See more information about the Classic Europe tour .

The 14-day itinerary includes:

  • Start in Amsterdam
  • Drive through Brussels for a quick stop en route to Paris
  • Visit Burgundy and the breath-taking Swiss Alps
  • In Italy , see Pisa, Tuscany, Florence, Rome, and Venice
  • Travel into Munich and Bavaria in Germany , then to Nuremberg and Berlin
  • Head back to Amsterdam

There are other Europe tour options with varying destinations. Check out the website to see all options with this tour operator .

Self-Guided Tour of Europe – Plan Your Own Travel Itinerary

With a good plan of action, your 2-week Europe trip will run smoothly and provide you with a comprehensive overview including some of the main countries in Western Europe.

If this schedule seems too ambitious for just a 10 day Europe trip, you can always extend your stay in the cities that interest you most and decide not to visit others.

There’s no right or wrong way to do it. It’s entirely up to you.

Day 1-2: London

Arrive in London . Take the Heathrow Express from the airport to your hotel.

You’ll want to stay in West London for easy access to all the top sights. London is very walkable. To get around to all the sights in a day or two, you’ll want to get your walking shoes on.

You can take a hop-on-hop-off bus tour if you’re not up for the walking. For foodies, we highly recommend spending some time doing any of these fun foodie activities in London .

The city is one of the best for restaurants in the world. If you want to take a day trip from London, we suggest Stonehenge , Bath , or Windsor . They’re all very close by and offer a fantastic experience.

London city and Thames view

In London, be sure to see these sights:

(You can purchase tickets in advance for these activities. These links are affiliate links to activities we’ve done and recommend.)

  • Tower of London (with the Crown Jewels)
  • Tower Bridge Experience
  • Shakespeare Globe
  • Churchill War Rooms
  • Westminster Abbey & Big Ben
  • View from the Shard
  • Kensington Palace
  • Kew Gardens

Tower Bridge

How to Spend One Day in London

Windsor England

Things to Do in Windsor: A Perfect Day Trip From London

borough market

21 Fun Foodie Things to Do in London

Where to Stay in London: We recommend the Trafalgar St James by Hilton . It’s in a historic building in a really prime location. The hotel and rooms are designed in art deco and the rooms are really spacious and bright. ⇒  Read reviews on Trip Advisor .

Day 3-5: Paris

Travel to Paris on the Eurostar train . The journey takes just 2 hours from St. Pancras Train Station.

Don’t forget to take a picnic lunch and a bottle of wine with you to enjoy on the train. There are so many things to do in Paris . In only two days, you can cover a lot of ground. You can do a few of these great foodie activities , see the top sights on a walking tour, or join this fun gourmet bus tour for a multi-course meal on a double decker tour bus.

You’ll want to either plan on walking a lot, or acquaint yourself with the Paris Metro map and take short trips in between sights. You can also take the Paris hop of hop off bus to get between sights.

Check out our 3-day Paris itinerary that will help you plan what to see.

paris eiffel tower

In Paris, be sure to see these sights:

  • Eiffel Tower
  • Notre Dame (closed for renovations)
  • Seine River Cruise
  • Luxembourg Gardens
  • Arch d’Triomphe
  • The Avenue des Champs-Élysées
  • Louvre Museum
  • Sacre Coeur & Montmartre

Paris Eiffel Tower

How to Spend One Day in Paris

Paris bridge

3-Day Paris Itinerary for First Timers

wine and croissants at the eiffel tower

9 Fun Foodie Things to Do in Paris

Where to Stay in Paris: The best location to stay in Paris is 6th Arrondissement. It is the Latin Quarter. The heart of Paris. And it’s the best location for tourist who are planning to see everything. Here are 8 top hotels with an Eiffel Tower view . We recommend the boutique 4-star  Hotel Parc Saint Severin . The rooms are larger than most in Paris and they’re nicely refurbished. Plus it’s a really great location. The metro is really close.  ⇒ Read reviews on Trip Advisor.

Day 5-7: Venice

Venice gondolas

Venice is just one of those places you have to visit at least once in your life. It’s an incredibly enchanting city, with so much character that you feel a little like you’re floating around in a Disney movie.

The views across the Grand Canal are so beautiful, and the narrow alleys can lead you to get lost in a city of charm. Everywhere you turn is another incredible view, and a gondola floating by in the distance. It’s one of a kind.

With so many great things to do in Venice, you really need to set up a good itinerary before you leave, to make sure you fit everything in. 

Check out our shortcut guide to all the best parts of Venice, which will help you plan. Definitely make time for a Venice food tour .

The food in Venice is great, if you know where to look. And you can check out our YouTube video for the top 10 things to do in Venice , if you need more ideas.

Venice waterway at sunset

You can pre-book some of the activities. I would definitely pre-book the activities below, so you don’t miss out.

  • Venice Gondola Ride and Serenade
  • Eat Like a Local: 3-hour Venice Small-Group Food Tasting Walking Tour
  • Legendary Venice St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace

Venice waterway at sunset

Essential Travel Guide to Venice, Italy [Infographic]

Restaurant in St. Mark's Square

Top Foods to Try on a Venice Food Tour

wine corks forming Italy

Guide to the Best Wine Regions in Italy

Where to Stay in Venice:

Ai Patrizi di Venezia   If you’re staying for 3+ nights, I highly recommend this apartment. It’s in the perfect location, is incredibly comfortable and clean, and has a kitchenette. We sometimes prefer an apartment to a hotel so we’re not being bothered by housekeeping. This place is a gem. | Read Reviews or Book a Stay Hotel Londra Palace   If you’d rather stay in a hotel because you like the extra amenities, then Hotel Londra Palace is a great choice. It’s in a very good location, only 5 min walk from St. Mark’s Square, with free wifi and a restaurant. Some rooms have a balcony and an incredible view. | Read Reviews or Book a Stay

Day 8-10: Rome

Coliseum in Rome - how to plan a trip to europe

Rome is a city that will capture your heart the moment you arrive. It’s amazing to see so much history packed into one place, and so much of it is scattered right in the middle of a modern city. There’s really no where else like it. Plus the food. You have to go on a food tour and witness it first hand.

If you’re planning a trip, we’ve got you covered with our shortcut travel guide to Rome : an informative and helpful infographic that will give you a quick peek at all the top things you should plan to do in Rome. Here’s our 3-day itinerary to help plan it all out.

Top things to put on your itinerary:

  • The Colosseum : This monumental amphitheater is one of the most recognized symbols of Rome, offering a peek into the world of ancient Roman gladiators. Try to book a guided tour to get the full historical context.
  • Roman Forum & Palatine Hill : Located near the Colosseum, the Roman Forum was the political, commercial, and judicial center of ancient Rome. The Palatine Hill, according to Roman mythology, is where the city was founded by Romulus.
  • Pantheon : This best-preserved monument from the Roman Empire is a marvel of architectural design, with its impressive dome and the oculus at its center.
  • Vatican City : Here, you can visit St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and the Sistine Chapel, with Michelangelo’s renowned frescoes. Be sure to dress modestly as a sign of respect.
  • Trevi Fountain : Throw a coin into this iconic fountain to ensure your return to Rome. It’s beautiful during the day, but consider a visit at night when it’s lit up.
  • Piazza Navona : This square is home to Bernini’s famous Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi (Fountain of the Four Rivers), as well as various artists, musicians, and street performers.
  • Spanish Steps : Climbing these steps from Piazza di Spagna to Piazza Trinità dei Monti offers a wonderful view. The nearby shopping district is a must for fashion enthusiasts.

PRO TIP: Skip the line tickets are necessary in Rome, especially during high season. You won’t waste time waiting in huge lines.

  • Eating Europe’s Twilight Trastevere Tour  (We loved this tour! Read about it here .)
  • Faster Than Skip-the-Line: Vatican, Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica Tour (definitely worth it)
  • Colosseum and Ancient Rome Small-Group Tour

Rome

What To Do in Rome in 3 Days

Rome Coliseum

Essential Travel Guide to Rome, Italy [+Infographic]

Rome food tour

Eat Like a Local on a Rome Food Tour

Where to Stay in Rome

The best location in Rome depends on what you want to accomplish during your stay, but it’s always best to be centrally located so you can walk to all of the main attractions. 

Two great choices in the affordable luxury range are  The Inn at the Spanish Steps  (with a gorgeous roof-top pool) and  Il Palazzetto . We also really enjoyed staying at  Nerva Boutique Hotel  in the popular Rione i Monti area.

Day 10-12: Berlin

Berlin, Germany

Berlin is a very modern city with a good art scene, many museums, great food options, and cultural/historical things to see and do. It’s a sprawling city so you’ll want to be ready for public transportation. 

There are a few Berlin attractions and sights you don’t want to miss like these we’ve listed here:

  • Brandenburg Gate : This iconic symbol of Berlin was once a symbol of division during the Cold War, but now stands for German unity and is a must-see.
  • Berlin Wall Memorial and Checkpoint Charlie : No visit to Berlin is complete without learning about its Cold War history. The Memorial provides an insightful look into the era of the city’s division.
  • Reichstag Building : The seat of the German Parliament, the building’s glass dome offers a panoramic view of the city. It’s a good idea to register in advance for a visit.
  • Museum Island : Home to five world-class museums, including the Pergamon Museum and the Neues Museum. The latter houses the bust of Nefertiti, an ancient Egyptian queen.
  • Alexanderplatz and TV Tower : A large public square and transport hub in the central Mitte district, featuring the iconic TV Tower (Fernsehturm) which provides excellent views over the city.
  • Holocaust Memorial (Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe) : A poignant, powerful monument to one of history’s darkest times.

The best way to see all of these sights is on this Discover Berlin half-day walking tour . The tour is really inexpensive and is the best way to learn the historical and cultural past of Germany, while see the top sights.

Foodies will also want to check out Markethalle Neun , an indoor market with international food vendors, especially on Street Food Thursdays! Also plan for a beer tour and a Berlin food tour in order to taste the best parts of the city!

Berlin

Essential Travel Guide to Berlin, Germany [Updated 2024]

Berlin is a city that holds a certain mystery, due to its interesting history that forever changed the world. ...

Where to Stay in Berlin

One of my favorite hotels is the  Hotel am Steinplatz, Autograph Collection . It’s located right in the center of the city, conveniently located for transportation, so you can easily get around to the top sights. There’s a bar, restaurant, and really comfortable rooms. ⇒ Read reviews on  Trip Advisor .

Day 12-14: Amsterdam

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

As a tourist, you’ll likely find Amsterdam to be a very welcoming and fun place to explore. The canals and old cobblestone streets make it the quintessential European city, and it’s just so easy to get around. Read our full guide to 3-days in Amsterdam for the full rundown.

The many activities in Amsterdam include history, art and food. I think a good plan to tackle the city includes a bit of walking tour, interspersed with stops to try the local food and drinks.

Be sure to try bitterballen, poffertjes, and frites (which you can get with dozens of different sauces), along with all the cheese. There are dozens of different canal cruises you can take that are often paired with cheese, beer, wine or even pizza.

For drinks, we recommend stopping at some of the beer bars , like Proeflokaal Arendsnest and Beer Temple, as well as the top cocktail bars like Tales & Spirits and Flying Dutchman. And don’t forget to sample the genever at Proeflokaal ‘t Kelkje, one of the best places in Amsterdam to taste genever!

Here are a few links to our favorite tours and activities in Amsterdam so you can purchase your tickets in advance:

  • Amsterdam Canal Cruise in Classic River Boat
  • Skip-the-line Rijksmuseum & Van Gogh Museum Guided Combo Tour – Private Tour

Eat like a local in Amsterdam with Eating Europe Food Tours – there are 5 tours available:

  • Jordaan Food Tour
  • Jordaan Food & Canals Tour
  • Amsterdam at Twilight Food Tour
  • Food Tour in Haarlem
  • A Taste of Life in Haarlem

Amsterdam waterway and buildings

Essential Travel Guide to Amsterdam [Updated for 2024]

Places to drink beer in Amsterdam

Where to Find the Best Beer in Amsterdam

Where to stay in Amsterdam

We like staying near Dam Square in central Amsterdam. It’s fun and lively, close to or within easy walking distance of many of the top attractions, and easily accessible for public transportation. 

Radisson Blu – This is a nicely-decorated 4-star hotel located directly on a canal near Rembrandt Square. Great place to stay.  Read Reviews on Trip Advisor

Tips for Planning a Trip to Europe

Best time to go to europe.

When you decide to go to Europe should be based on what type of experience you want to have. A lot of people make it a priority to go to Europe in the summer because that’s when they take vacation, or when the kids are out of school. 

However, everyone else is doing the same thing. That means July-August is high season and there are a lot of visitors. Attractions are packed, lines are long, prices are high, and it can be really hot outside.

The best weather in Europe can be found from late March to early June and from late September to early December. This is considered the shoulder season in Europe and there will be less people and lower prices.

We prefer to travel during these times because it’s just so much easier. And the nicer weather makes all the difference.

We especially caution against traveling in Italy in August. It is one of the hottest months and the weather can be a real hindrance to your happiness.

St Paul's Cathedral, London

Getting to Europe

Many top airlines from around the world have direct flights into London. It’s probably one of the easiest cities to get into.

Check Skyscanner for great deals on airfare. We prefer to fly into London for the ease of it all, but you can skip London and fly directly into Paris, if you wish.

Also keep in mind that airfare is lower on the shoulder and off season than it is during the summer. (See this article for more on how to find great airfare ).

We also recommend flying into one city and out of another, so you don’t waste some of your holiday time flying back to the starting point. Using the multi-city option on Skyscanner , you should be able to find this option without the fares getting to high.

Getting Around Europe

When planning your Europe itinerary, keep in mind the distance between each destination. Europe seems small, but it takes a while to get between destinations. In most cases, you’ll need at least a half day to get between locations, more if taking the train.

Once you arrive in Europe, you can either fly or take the train between cities. We prefer to take early morning or late night flights, to avoid burning active hours in our destination.

Flying is relatively cheap on budget airlines like Ryanair and EasyJet . We fly with them all the time.

There are fees for any extras you add, and checking luggage can be expensive, so do be mindful of that.

See here for an idea of what it costs and the flight times for each of the legs in our itinerary:

  • London to Paris: $50
  • Paris to Venice: $85
  • Venice to Rome: $70
  • Rome to Berlin: $95
  • Berlin to Amsterdam: $70

train station in Europe

Via Train – Eurail Pass

Another way to travel around Europe in by train. You can purchase individual train tickets for each journey you wish to take. That will help you mix and match, if you want to fly between some cities and take the train between others.

However, a more economical way to go by train is with a Eurail Pass. The price of the Eurail Pass varies depending on your needs. They range from $250 to over $1000. For the itinerary we laid out in this post, you would need a 5 days within 1 month pass, which costs $326 (updated 2019).

This allows you to travel on any 5 days over a period of a month. There’s also a 7 days in one month pass for $388, if you think you’d like to tack on another destination. These passes entitle you to travel on specific trains only.

You can’t just show up and get on any train, but you don’t need reservations except for the high-speed and overnight trains (which also require an extra fee). They’re only for non-European travelers. And they can only be used for the class of service booked.

Travel Documents – Schengen Area

Always verify the entry requirements and travel documents needed for each specific country you are trip planning for as requirements can vary. You can check with the embassies or consulates of the countries you’ll be visiting or use official government travel websites for the most accurate and current information.

Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned return date. Some countries may have different requirements, so it’s always a good idea to check the specific entry requirements for the countries you plan to visit.

Depending on your nationality and the specific European countries you plan to visit, you may or may not need a visa. Citizens of the United States can generally enter the Schengen Area (a group of 26 European countries that have abolished passport control at their mutual borders) for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa. However, if you plan to stay longer or visit countries outside the Schengen Area, you may need additional visas.

Tipping in Europe

Yes, you do need to tip in Europe. However, it’s not at the custom level of the U.S. There are some key differences.

First of all, 10% is the norm for tipping in a nice restaurant. You can give more if you had a stellar experience, but that’s more like 12%. Not 20%. In a cafe or deli, just round up your bill to the nearest dollar. If it was €3.80, leave the .20 cents as a tip.

In pubs in London and bars in Europe, tipping isn’t expected on small amounts.

Whatever you do, always check the bill for a service charge. There are MANY places throughout Europe now that charge a set service fee and include it in the bill. This is often 10 or 12%. If this fee has been added to your bill, there is no need to tip.

Eating in Europe

cacio e pepe pasta

Since you’ll be visiting many different countries while in Europe, the food will be very diverse. You will have the best overall experience if you’re willing to try all the foods you come across and have an open mind that you mind really like something you’ve never tried before.

  • In London, you should have a Sunday roast , Fish and Chips , a Steak & Ale pie . See our foodie guide to London for more.
  • In Paris, are you daring enough to try frog’s legs or escargot ? Definitely make room for crepes and a Croque Monsieur . See our foodie guide to Paris for more.
  • In Italy, you’ll find an unimaginable array of pasta dishes , pizza, dried meats, and cheeses. Berlin has a very international food scene. It’s not just Schnitzel and sausage anymore.
  • And in Amsterdam, you must try the frites , the bitterballen and the  Poffertjes (pancakes).

In every city, there is now a food tour taking place. We always recommend going on a food tour first thing when you arrive because it gives you a very good overview of the foods you should look out for and where to find them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is $5000 enough for a trip to europe.

With careful planning and budgeting, $5000 can allow you to have an enjoyable and fulfilling trip to Europe. However, the amount of money you need for a trip to Europe can vary widely depending on several factors, including the duration of your trip, the countries you plan to visit, your travel style, and the activities you want to experience.

How early should I plan my Europe trip?

Starting to plan your Europe trip 6 months in advance is a good timeframe, especially if your trip involves multiple destinations, is during the peak season, or requires visas. This allows you to also get your accommodation booked in advance. However, if your trip is relatively simple and during the off-peak season, you might be able to start planning 3 months before your travel dates.

What’s the best time to visit Italy?

Italy is a year-round destination, but many people prefer the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is pleasant, and tourist crowds in Italy are generally smaller at this time of year.

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Now you know how to plan a trip to Europe, and we’ve given you a 2-week itinerary to follow. What are you waiting for? Whether you take a guided tour or do this Europe 2-week itinerary on your own, I am certain you will find it to be the most exciting and rewarding trip you’ll ever take.

Europe is fascinating and full of surprises. Let us know how your trip to Europe turns out!

Be Prepared For Travel

Planning is the most important part of any successful trip. Do it the easy way:

🧳 Travel Packing List | ✔️ Why You Need Travel Insurance | ✈️ What to Do Before You Leave Home

  • Find and book the best hotel (our favorite booking site is Expedia)
  • Research flight options (our favorite tool is Skyscanner )
  • Book a tour (we always use Viator to find the best tours)
  • Rent a car through Discover Cars (they search the best deals for you!)

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Like this post? Why not save it to your Pinterest board ?

Laura

Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.

15 thoughts on “ How to Plan a Trip to Europe (2-Week Europe Itinerary) ”

A great two-week itinerary for those looking to see the capital cities of Europe Laura – and totally agree with the London food choices! We are heading to the UK early next month and the Sunday roast and fish and chips ( with curry sauce) are high on our agenda;) Also an afternoon tea with clotted cream! 🙂 Thanks for sharing this thorough article. Shelley x

I always love a good cream tea!

I am planning on visiting Europe – more like a backpacking trip. And believe, I probably have read all the possible articles about “How to Self Organize Europe Trip” and this is the first article which covered everything I needed to know in a simple and minimal way. I couldn’t thank you enough, Laura. Really helpful!!!!!

Glad you found it useful, Sneha. Enjoy your trip.

This is awesome, thank you ❤️

Thank you for ALL of this great information. I’m in the beginning stages of planning a vacation for my family of 6. We will fly out of JFK – probably late June 2023 and we would like to visit: London, Paris, Venice, (Rome maybe) and Barcelona. Does the order of countries make sense? And know we would do train from Paris to Venice – but what would you suggest for the rest of the trip as far as traveling between countries? Thank you!

Hi Jill. That trip route sounds good. You can actually do all trains, if you don’t mind overnight travel, to save time. I would likely take the Eurostar from London to Paris, fly to Venice, train to Rome, and flight to Barcelona. You can easily get low-cost airline flights between all of those places.

Hi Laura, do you know whether the flight from Paris to Venice would be very busy? We definitely want to hit up London, Amsterdam, Paris and Italy (Venice/Florence/Rome) but felt that 14 days was ambitious for us. We also were hoping to avoid flights as much as possible due to the mass flying and worry it might take forever at the airport during August/September.

Hi Linda. The flight from Paris to Venice is likely always full, but it’s not a bad experience. We fly these routes all the time. You could also take the train! If you want to take a slower journey and actually cover it well, I would recommend 3 weeks for that trip. It is quite ambitious to do it in 2 weeks, but most people don’t have that much vacation time.

Hi and thank you so much for sharing all of this information! I am planning a summer trip for next year and am just researching to get a jump start on things and saving up!

I have a question…is there a way to add in the Almafi coast in this itinerary easily? What would you suggest as far as when you would add that? Before or after Venice…etc. and how many days would you recommend there? I was planning to do a boat day there.

Hi Cassandra. We were just in the Amalfi coast! You’ll love it. If you have time, I would suggest doing this itinerary the opposite way – starting in London and ending in Naples. Then you can visit the Amalfi coast and travel home from Naples.

Thanks so much for the in-depth wonderful article you turned out here .God Bless You

Hi there! This is really helpful!! I’m just confused, and trying to follow the map you post at the top. Just underneath your header “Self-Guided Tour of Europe – Plan Your Own Travel Itinerary”, there’s a map with a travel route posted. But that map does not match up with the route that is detailed below. The map appears to start in London and go to Paris, and them double-back to Amsterdam. But in the written itinerary, you talk about going from Paris to Venice, but this is not shown as the route on the map, and there’s no mention of how to get from Paris to Venice. Just trying to figure out if I follow what’s posted on the map, or what is outline in the written itinerary?? THANK YOU!!!

Hi Sherry. It looks like Amsterdam just got inserted in the wrong place on the map. I’ve updated it to be last instead of 3rd. Although if you wanted to fly into London and out of Rome, you could still put Amsterdam 3rd in the itinerary.

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  • Travel Resources

Planning a rail trip around Europe? Use Eurail Planner to plan your route, book accommodation, and more!

Our app makes it easy to plan and book everything you need for your trip around Europe.

Plan the best route across Europe and see your eurotrip come to life.

See your day-by-day trip itinerary, so you know when you’ll be in each European city.

Accommodation

Instantly search for the best accommodation for the dates and destinations in your plan.

View durations for each rail journey on your route through Europe.

Share your plan with friends and family.

Track how many travel days you need, so you know which Eurail pass is best for your trip.

Keep track of costs as you edit your trip.

Add notes with important information about each destination.

Unlock offers on eurotrip essentials - exclusive to Premium members.

Multiple Plans

Make as many plans as you want.

Happy to Wander

The FREE Europe Trip Planner You Need to Steal (Printable + Digital Workbook!)

Last Updated: April 21, 2023

*FYI - this post may contain affiliate links, which means we earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase from them. Also, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Check out our Privacy Policy and Disclosure. for more info.

Planning a trip to Europe? Stressed out about all the things you need to get done?

Don’t worry – my free 30 page Europe trip planner / workbook is here to help.

If you want a free resource that will guide you through the Europe trip planning process from start to finish, then keep scrolling. I have exactly what you need!

europe trip plan

Save this Free Europe Trip Planner for Later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

How to Use My Free Europe Trip Planning Workbook

While I think the workbook itself is fairly self-explanatory, I think you’ll get the most value out of it if you first watch the accompanying video guide here, or read the written version of the guide in my How to Plan a Trip to Europe (Step by Step) post.

In short, the workbook contains 30 pages of helpful information and worksheets designed to guide you through the research and planning process for your Europe trip!

With it, you’ll go through all the following steps:

  • Understanding the Schengen Area
  • Choosing how much time to spend in Europe
  • Choosing where/when to go to Europe
  • Figuring out your visas/documents
  • Booking your flights
  • Booking your accommodation
  • Figuring out what to do in each destination
  • Deciding what to pack

europe trip plan

Sound good? Then whoo – all my hours hunched over the computer were not in fact in vain. Take that, mom!

I’ve prepared two versions of this free Europe trip planner – a fillable PDF version that you can use and complete online, as well as a printable PDF version.

NOTE: There are some pages in the workbook that are intended to be used multiple times (e.g. one template/worksheet that can be used for every city or destination on your trip). In these cases, simply use your preferred PDF Reader to duplicate the pages as needed. This guide should help with that.

europe trip plan

My Free Europe Trip Planning Workbook: Fillable PDF Version

This digital version is a fillable PDF with links to helpful resources and also interactive elements like checkboxes so you can have everything done online from your computer!

You can download it here.

europe trip plan

My Free Europe Trip Planning Workbook: Printable Version

The printable version of my free Europe trip planner can be found here.

It’s basically the same as the digital copy, just with less emphasis on the clickable links and also a fun printable map that you can use to star your potential destinations.

NOTE: There are some pages in the workbook that are intended to be used multiple times (e.g. one template/worksheet that can be used for every city or destination on your trip). In these cases, simply print additional copies of those pages as needed.

I Hope You Enjoy Using My Free Europe Trip Planner!

Let me know in the comments if you have any questions or suggestions for additional pages to be added. I’d love to continue improving this free Eurotrip planner for the future, so I’m all ears!

My Go-To Travel Favourites:

🧳 Eagle Creek: My favourite packing cubes

💳 Wise: For FREE travel friendly credit cards

🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

📷 Sony A7IV: My (amazing) camera

✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

1 thought on “The FREE Europe Trip Planner You Need to Steal (Printable + Digital Workbook!)”

Christina, what a wonderful resource! Thanks so much and glad to see you back.

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Crazy Family Adventure

How To Plan A Trip To Europe

W e are excited to share with you all of our tips and tricks on how to plan a trip to Europe! We successfully planned our 3 month – 14 country backpacking trip in a couple months. It took a lot of time and organization to plan but it was totally worth it!

If you are overwhelmed with the thought of planning, there are always tours you can join, but know the price tag goes way up if you go this route. Read on as we share everything we learned while planning our trip.

For our trip we focused on western Europe and visited:

Lisbon, Portugal | Spain ( Madrid , Barcelona , Valencia ) | Italy ( Cinque Terre , Florence , Tuscany , Rome , and Venice ) | Lauterbrunnen , Switzerland | Prague , Czech Republic | Salzberg, Austria | Germany ( Munich , Rothenburg , Bacharach ) | Amsterdam, Netherlands | Brussels, Belgium | Paris, France | London, England | Scotland | Ireland.

**Also note that you should look into this as well to see if it is active and if you need to go through this process prior to getting to Europe: ETIAS – European Travel Information And Authorisation System .**

Questions to ask yourself before you start planning

How long do you want to go for?

The way we looked at it was since we are going to be jet lagged when we got there and flights aren’t cheap, we wanted to spend as much time as we could.

Sure you can push through the jet lag, but if you have the time to give yourself an extra couple days at the beginning to get over your jet lag, it will make the rest of your trip better.

Will you go to one location for the whole trip or visit multiple cities and/or countries?

The nice thing about Europe is the countries are pretty close together. This makes it very possible to do a multi city or country trip. That being said, you could easily spend weeks to a month or more in each country and not see it all!

I would base this decision on if you plan to come back to Europe again in the near future or if this is a once in a lifetime trip. If it is a once in a lifetime trip, see as much as you can! It is really cool to cross a border and hear a different language, experience a new culture and just to see how even though these countries are so close they are all still so different.

Do you want to do big city stops or more countryside and off the beaten path?

You can do both in a trip, but you will want to think through this before you start planning since this may impact what you need to get around.

The public transportation is great in Europe, but in some places it doesn’t work as well. These are the places we rented a car and planned to road trip around the area. For us it was Tuscany since we wanted to stay in the Tuscan countryside, Scotland since we wanted to drive the Isle of Skye and Ireland since we wanted to do the Ring of Kerry.

We could have opted to go on tour buses for those places but we wanted the freedom to take a car and go where we wanted. For the rest of our stops we were good with finding places that the train went so we didn’t need a car.

How will you get to the locations you want to go?

If you do plan to visit multiple cities or countries how will you get between them? For us we opted for mostly trains with a Eurail pass. This was so much easier than getting on a flight, but did take longer. We were OK with that since it meant we could look out our window and see the country as we rode through it.

Flights are another option and tickets flying between EU countries are usually very reasonable. However if you have a lot of luggage the price can add up with all the fees, so pay attention to that. On the train they don’t limit your bags, though it can be a hassle to find places for big luggage.

If you do plan to fly and have younger kids with you be sure to check out these tips on flying with a baby or a toddler to help make the flight better for everyone.

How do you want to get around once you are there?

Once there, are you good taking public transportation, Ubers, etc. or are you going to want to rent a car? We rented a car a few places, but most places we did not need one and public transportation was amazing!

If you don’t plan to get a car, be sure to take into consideration where you stay and how close it is to a train station or subway station.

I have to say using public transportation was so easy and a lot less stressful compared to having a car that we had to find parking spots, had to drive, etc. With public transportation you just get on and go!

Check out these great tips on going to Europe With Kids and these awesome Travel Tips for Europe.

Planning Our Trip To Europe

This was going to be our first time planning our own trip to Europe – no tour – just all us. Our plan was to backpack through Europe for 3 months with our 4 kids (14,12,12 and 9 when we started the trip) and to create our own Europe itinerary to follow.

We wanted to see as many countries as we could and planned to focus on mostly western Europe and hit a lot of the big stops and major cities you do when visiting Europe.

This was the end of January and our plan was to leave for Europe in the beginning of March. We knew we wanted to be back by June 10th or so since our oldest is going to play High School football. That meant we wanted to get back in time for him to start summer training for it.

After talking about it, we decided we did not want to wing where we would be staying and what days would be travel days. We wanted a solid plan together on where we were going, when we would be there and where we would stay.

This would also help us budget our nightly cost for stays and would take out the stress of trying to find somewhere to stay while we were traveling. This way when we were in a location we could just enjoy it and not be worried about where we were going next since it was already taken care of.

Yes, this took away from the flexibility of easily extending somewhere or changing routes mid trip. For this trip and with 6 of us we were 100% OK with that.

We would plan what we would do at the location, attractions, dinner, etc once we got there or when we were a few weeks out for things we knew we needed tickets for. Yes – this would mean we would miss out a few things that you needed to buy tickets for months ahead of time. This just gave us a reason to plan a trip back in the future since there was no way we would see it all in one trip anyways!

That being said if there is something you really don’t want to miss while on your trip be sure to research those tickets ASAP and get them booked as soon as you can . There were a few things we did want to do and their were tickets available, but I decided to wait until closer to getting to the location and at that time the tickets were gone.

Planning Where To Go

We looked at the map, bought a Rick Steves Best Of Europe book, and started to pick what European destinations we wanted to hit!

If we left March 7th. That gave us about 3 months to travel and get back by June 10th (originally we though June 7th, but once we started to plan and set dates it got pushed back a bit and really could have been more like July 10th).

For our first stop we knew we wanted to stay for 1 week so we had a chance to get over our jetlag and to get settled into the trip. We choose Lisbon, Portugal as our first European country to stop in. This was a pretty “short” flight from Chicago, plus the weather was going to be a bit warmer than other places.

The first location was set now to fill in the rest! We took out the map and looked at exactly where Lisbon was and what was around it. We had also decided we were going to do the Eurail for our trip so went on to their site to see what routes they had trains for.

You can check out their highlevel routes here: Eurail Routes

This helped us determine some of the route since it would be easier if we knew a train went right where we were going. We also knew on this trip we wanted to hit all of the big highlights and as many different countries as we could.

Pace Of Travel

We have had a few people ask why we are moving so fast – staying only a few nights in some places and 1 week at most – in only 2 locations on the whole trip. We are doing this because we love to travel this way! Our whole family gets bored quickly and it is exciting to know we are heading to a new place in just a couple of days.

We also aren’t really living normal life on this trip. We Unschool our kids, which means our travel is their school when we are on trips like this. I am working, but very minimal as I have been able to set things up for both of our businesses so I am able to do that by having an awesome team of people that help keep both businesses running from a day to day perspective.

On this trip our goal was to go and see and do a lot and figure out what countries or places we would like to come back to again. We did the same kind of traveling when we first started RVing and after doing that for 8 years we still move quickly for a good part of the year and find other pockets of time throughout the year where we stay put for a month or more.

This is by no means the only way to travel to Europe. You could definitely settle into each location for a week or more and explore it in a different way. For us and with backpacks only it made sense to go for it this way.

About half way into the trip we really saw that we loved this style of travel. Having just a backpack made it so simple. The focus isn’t on the things we have, but the experiences we are doing.

We have found down time and usually go in at night by around 7ish so everyone has time to do what they want for a while. We also make sure there are multiple days a week for everyone to sleep in. Other days we are up bright and early to catch a train or head out on an activity.

Having an idea that our family could handle this pace of travel, we dove into the map of Europe and train routes and started to put together a plan.

Planning Spreadsheet

In order to keep track of everything and make it easy to share I created a Google Sheet with the following columns:

  • Length Of Stay
  • Where We Are Staying
  • When We Will Arrive
  • Date Charging Card or Paid In Full
  • Free Cancellation Up To
  • Total Amount
  • Train Reservation
  • Closest Train Station Name
  • Distance From Train Station
  • Link To Property
  • Washing Machine Y/N

I started by first filling in the locations we wanted to go and any set dates where we knew we wanted to be places. More on that process below.

Planning The Stops

In each country, starting with Lisbon, we looked at the train stops. We thought we could get from Lisbon to Madrid on an overnight train (yes, I said thought) so we planned to go from Lisbon to Madrid.

As I was looking up places to visit in Spain I came across a post about the different festivals in Spain and found that Las Fallas was going to be going on in Valencia right around the time we could be there! That adjusted the schedule a bit so that we could be sure to have 4 days to spend at the festival.

Now I am at:

  • Lisbon, Portugal (interested in more time in Portugal check out this great article on how much it costs to travel to Portugal and also this one on planning a trip to Portugal .)
  • Madrid, Spain
  • Valencia, Spain (Las Fallas Festival)

From here I knew we wanted to do Barcelona, Spain to see the La Familia Sagrada church.

  • Barcelona, Spain

After this and how fast we were moving we thought it would be a good idea to find somewhere in France to just relax for a few days – no sightseeing plans – just sleep in and hang out.

  • Nice, France

This also got us closer to Italy. Yes, we didn’t spend much time in France. But we do have plans to go back to Paris later on in the trip. If you want to spend time in France check out these holidays in the South of France .

Cinque Terre had been on my list for a long time of places I wanted to go. This was an easy one. Same thing with Tuscany. I started to research by mostly googling places to visit in Italy, places to go in Italy with kids, things like that.

Tip – when you google things like this scroll down the results until you find a blog post from an actual family or person not the high level ones like Trip Advisor or Crazy Tourist, but actual blogs written by real people who have done these trips. Trust me the information is way better!!

For Tuscany, I kept seeing these Agriturismo Farms show up. I found a blog post from a Mom who had visited a few in Tuscany and listed her favorites. That is how I found Daiccironi. I am so glad I found it! We went back and forth on if we would do it. If we did we knew we needed to rent a car – since trains don’t go into the Tuscany countryside.

After looking more into it we decided it was worth it so added this to the list and booked a car rental for Tuscany (we would pick it up in Pisa when we came in on the train).

  • Cinque Terre, Italy
  • Tuscany, Italy

From here we knew we would do the other big cities in Italy: Florence, Rome, Venice. We considered going down to Naples and the Amalfi Coast. We also really looked into adding Greece to the trip (and originally had these locations on our itinerary). But once we saw we were running out of time to get back by June we cut these parts out of this trip.

  • Florence, Italy
  • Rome, Italy (check out this post on photo spots in Rome)
  • Venice, Italy (check out this post on 3 Days In Venice )

Switzerland was high on my list of places I wanted to go to. The mountains, the glacier water, the waterfalls, sign me up!! When I was researching Switzerland I came across the Bernina Express . It was a train that goes from Tirano, Italy to Chur, Switzerland or vice versa.

Tirano was a train ride away from Venice so it seemed like a great way to get into Switzerland! The Bernina Express was free with the Eurail ticket but we did need to buy a seat reservation for the train. This was one of the first activities I booked as I wanted to be sure we got on this train!

This also meant I planned the next few stops all around the train ride. I am glad we did as met a family who missed the train since the train they had booked to take them to Tirano was running late!

To avoid this we booked 1 night in Tirano (the night before the Bernina Express left). We also booked a night in Chur, Switzerland (where the train got in). So we could travel on the regular train from Chur, Switzerland to Interlaken, Switzerland. My thought was any train travel in Switzerland you want during the day so you can take in the beauty of the country!

I knew we wanted to stay in Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland. It is highly recommended by Rick Steves and the picture of the waterfalls and mountain views had be sold. Problem was the only place we could find to stay wasn’t available until a day later . . . hence we had to book another 1 night stay in Interlaken and took the 20 minute train into Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland the next day.

Yes, that was a lot of one night stays. But a couple of things. First, Switzerland was expensive so finding places to stay within our “budget” was not easy. Second, I knew we wanted to do the Bernina Express and this seemed like the best way to make that happen. That was how Switzerland was planned and I am glad we did it since we really enjoyed our time in Interlaken and at the Giessbach Waterfall ! We highly recommend planning a Switzerland family vacation . This place is magical!

  • Tirano, Italy
  • Chur, Switzerland
  • Interlaken, Switzerland
  • Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland

From here we wanted to head into Austria for a few nights. We had looked at Vienna, but from a train ride perspective it made more sense to go to Salzburg, Austria.

  • Salzburg, Austria

For Germany, we had Berlin on the list, but as we looked at the other things we wanted to do in Germany (mostly from the Rick Steves Europe book) Rothenburg, Germany and the Rhine Valley area – Munich made more sense.

Prague had been on my list for a long time so I looked to see if this could happen (I knew Craig would love the Beer Spa there!). It could! There was a train from Munich, Germany to Prague, Czech Republic and a train from Prague to Rothenburg, Germany. Add them to the list!

  • Munich, Germany
  • Prague , Czech Republic
  • Rothenburg, Germany
  • Bacharach, Germany

I also had on my list that we wanted to see the Tulips in Amsterdam! We almost stopped mid trip to make a quick run up to Amsterdam to see them at the end of April, but it wasn’t really a quick trip so opted to set our timing so we could be in Amsterdam before the tulips were predicted to be gone. Side note – we missed the tulip fields being in full bloom, but still saw the beautiful gardens.

  • Amsterdam, Holland

From there on the map we saw Belgium and Craig pointed out Luxumbourg. We figured we couldn’t do all of the countries around these 2 little ones and skip them! Plus, beer and chocolate?! Add those in too. Just for a few nights.

  • Brussles, Belgium

Luxumbourg – we ended up canceling this trip while we were in Amsterdam as we only had it for 1 night and instead extended our time in Paris.

Now it was time to go back to France and check out Paris. Our original thought was to stay in Paris for a week. But it was expensive and hard to find a place even close to our budget so we opted for just 3 nights at a hostel that turned into 4 when we canceled Luxumbourg – once we knew we could extend our hostel in Paris by a night.

  • Paris, France (Great posts to help you plan your trip: 5 Days In Paris Itinerary and a list of the top Paris family tours and Paris travel tips ).

Up next was London, England. From a train perspective we needed tickets ahead of time for the high speed train (The Eurostar) from Paris to London. This meant we had to commit to dates and get this booked! We were almost done with our high level list at this point so we kept adding places to finish out the trip so we could get these train tickets booked.

Check out these great posts: First Time Guide To London With Kids! and Hidden Gems In London .

  • London, England

There were a lot of places around England we wanted to go, but opted to find a place in London and figured we would take the train out for day trips from there. Wales looked amazing so we added a few nights on there as well.

  • Tenby, Wales

Scotland was next. Craig knew he wanted to try to play a round of golf in St Andrews, so that was on the list. When we looked at trains in Scotland we weren’t as happy about where they went and what we could do. So we decided we would rent a car here. That gave us more flexibility on where we would go in Scotland. We booked a car to be picked up at the airport in Edinburgh and took a tram from the train station to get to the airport and a bus from the airport to the rental car place.

  • Isle Of Skye
  • Edinburgh (check out this post on 2 days in Edinburgh )

From Scotland to get to Ireland we would need to fly or take a ferry. On this trip we were already flying, taking trains, driving so we figured let’s add in a ferry! This pushed us to determine where we would be in Scotland so we could catch the ferry to Ireland.

Ireland trains were similar to Scotlands so we decided to rent a car here as well so we could visit the places we wanted to go. It was not easy to take the same car from Scotland to Ireland so we dropped our car in Scotland before we spent 2 days in Edinburgh. Then we took a train to HolyHead, England to get on the ferry to Dublin.

  • Dublin – (check out this post on a weekend in Dublin )
  • Dublin to fly back to the US

That got us to the end of the high level list of where we wanted to go. Next we went back through the list on a spreadsheet to put the number of nights we would want to stay at some places. We knew we had a few set days with the Las Fallas festival, Tulips in Amsterdam and when we needed to be back so with those in place we plugged in the rest. Doing this we also checked train routes and times to make sure it would work.

Issues We Ran Into When Planning

We ran into a few issues. No train from Lisbon to Madrid. Ok figured we would book a flight for this. We found tickets that were super reasonable around $35 a person with carry ons.

From Valencia to Barcelona we were having problems finding a train on the day we needed and everything said we had to wait until we were at a train station in Spain to ask at the ticket counter. We knew this meant we might not get the train we wanted so we made sure our stop in Barcelona was able to be canceled or adjusted after we got to Spain.

Good thing it could be since when we got to Madrid and waited in line at the ticket counter at the train station we were told the train we wanted to take was full . . . so we had to find an additional night in Valencia and shorten our stay in Barcelona to one night.

We also ran into a situation where getting from Barcelona to Nice was going to be a 10 hour travel day and included a bus. Craig found plane tickets that were reasonable so we went with that option instead.

Finalizing The Plan

We kept working through our list and getting all of our dates in place and making notes where we had to rent a car, book a ferry, book an extra train (outside of Eurail) and things like that.

We finally had most of our dates in place. Craig had been watching the plane tickets to Portugal and prices had started to go up. We sat down together and asked each other are we really going to do this?!

We were both nervous, scared and unsure. Especially with COVID and where things were at. Everyone had been vaccinated to date so we were ready that way but still we were just unsure of what the atmosphere was like in Europe. But we figured hey if we are going to do this, let’s do it now!

Over the years of full time travel and visiting places like Baja, Mexico and Canada we have learned that usually things are way more scary when you are thinking about them versus when you actually are there doing them.

With this in mind we used our credit card points and Craig booked us the tickets from Chicago to Lisbon! OK I guess this is actually happening!!

From there we kept setting dates and planning our travel routes. I had also started to book our overnight stays at places – with all of them having free cancellation – so in case we changed anything we had room to adjust. More on this process below.

Once we got our list and dates complete and saw there were places to stay in most of these places. Craig booked our return flight from Dublin, Ireland to Chicago. Ok here we go! Now for all the details around where to stay and getting from one place to another.

Where To Stay

My goal was to set a budget of $100 a night for places to stay. I had looked up a few places and figured this may be doable. In the end it ended up being more like $150/$200 a night (sometimes more). That being said I also wanted to make sure all the places we stayed had good recent reviews. If I wasn’t worried about that we could have gone cheaper . . .

We wanted to do apartments, but also wanted to do a good amount of Hostel stays. When we were in Jerusalem we stayed in a hostel. We really enjoyed seeing so many different people from all over the world and even getting a chance to meet and talk to some. Apartments don’t really have a shared space like hostels do.

Staying in a hostel means Craig and I are normally in a bunk bed, so not 100% ideal, but hey this trip isn’t about 5 star hotels and comfort, it is about adventure!

Side Note – Now that the trip is done and we stayed in a lot of hostels I would say try your best to spread them out. We had a stretch where we were in hostels for over 2 weeks and it got long! Craig and I not having a space for just the 2 of us at night with a door if you get my meaning – put a strain on our relationship during this time. Keep that in mind!

I had the budget of $100ish a night. I did not want to use Airbnb as I am not happy with them. As a blogger we used Airbnb’s affiliate program and recommended a ton of Airbnb locations to our readers. A lot of people booked based off of our suggestions. We were making a nice amount of money each month off of this. A year or so ago they decided to cancel their affiliate program. No explanation they just canceled it. This had us very frustrated so we wanted another option.

Booking.com is very popular in Europe so I started to look into Booking.com and really liked their interface. I could find a location, see how close or far it was from the train station or other places we wanted to visit. Plus they had free cancellation on almost all of the stays we were going to book.

On Booking.com we could also keep all of our stops together in one place. This was super handy to have!

Now that I knew we were going to use Booking.com I wanted to make sure the places we were going to stay would work for our family. When you put in a location and the number of people on booking.com you click on the map. You than see the options for places to stay with a price set. I started here to see what was in our price range.

From there you can click on the location to see the rating for the place. I always tried to get places that were at least 8.0 and up. Once I saw the ranking I would click the reviews and sort by most recent to make sure people were still enjoying the location.

I am glad I did this. Some of the places had high rankings but when I searched by most recent reviews the most recent ones were really bad! People talking about things getting stolen from their rooms and the place not helping them out.

I also wanted to find places that were close to the train station. I knew we would be coming in by train and we would have to walk from the train station to get to our place.

With this criteria:

Price range: $100-$200 a night

Ranking: 8.0 or higher

Location: Walking distance to the train station plus how close it was to the city centers

Layout: Beds for 6 people

I worked through finding places for us to stay.

It was hard to find a place to stay In London. I asked in a few facebook groups I had joined and got some recommendations – that weren’t on Booking.com. Facebook groups for traveling with kids to a specific place are really helpful for this! I recommend these ones:

  • London With Kids: Travel Planning and Advice
  • Italy Travel Group
  • Worldschoolers

Once I was done I went through the list and realized I made a mistake where I missed a day! But luckily we were able to extend. Overall I felt pretty confident with what I had booked . . .

Confirming Where We Would Stay

On the Facebook groups I was on people kept talking about how they were notified a week before their trip that the room had been double booked! Umm no I didn’t want to get that call!!

I kept a spreadsheet of each place I booked. It had the date we could cancel for free up to, when payment was due, and a link to the location on Booking.com.

I completed the spreadsheet. Craig took over from there. He reached out to each location to confirm with an actual person working there or via WhatsApp if it was an apartment that the booking was set and we were all good.

Yes, this took a lot of extra work. But it meant we knew for sure the booking was booked. It also helped Craig know the route (since I had done most of the booking). Plus he was able to make a connection with the location. Which was helpful when we got somewhere.

If there were any issues he now knew exactly how to contact the right person. A lot of them are on WhatsApp so he was able to save that in his phone. This made it even easier to communicate when we got to a location.

We kept a Google Spreadsheet with all of this information on it. We also created a separate Google doc for each location we were going to be stopping at. With the Google doc we could put more information on it and easily pull up that location when we were getting ready to head there.

The doc had the following on it:

  • name of where we were staying
  • contact info
  • If there was laundry there
  • how to get into the location
  • what the closest train station is
  • what we needed to do to check in
  • when check in and check out was
  • and any top things we wanted to do at the location

By the time the planning was done we had a few holes in our plan. Some of them meant we had to readjust. Our van booking for Tuscany just was not happening so we got 2 cars – guess I will be driving in Italy!

We couldn’t finalize all the trains/buses until we got to Spain. That meant we weren’t sure how we were getting to and from a few places but we had a thought and a plan. Once we got there we got the trains booked that we could and booked the flights to Nice while we were in Spain.

At this point we felt the plan was as good as it was going to get and now it was time to make sure we had all the other logistics in place!

We did not have a set amount of money we were looking for this trip to cost us. We had a high level idea of what we wanted the budget to be but we knew that would be fluid.

In all honesty I think it is hard to truly budget for a trip like this. There are a lot of unknown things that come up. Plus once you are there you want to do, experience, and eat all the things!!

We went into the trip with a high level idea of what we thought we wanted to spend. We definitely spent more. That being said we weren’t trying to be super careful. If we were we could have spent less and still had an amazing trip.

Things we realized we wanted to cut back on while traveling. Our kids don’t really care if they have an amazing meal. That meant we could just order pizza to go multiple times a week and bring it back to our place to eat. Craig and I would also grab a bottle (or two :)) of wine at a store on the way home. This is always cheaper compared to getting alcohol when you are out somewhere.

From a high level we were thinking the following:

  • Eurail Tickets and Car Rentals: $5,000 – $6,000
  • Plane tickets: we used credit card points for one way the other was about $2400
  • Places to stay: $3000 – $6000 a month ($100 – $200 a night)
  • Eating: $100 – $150 a day
  • Extras: No idea!

Overall we thought we would spend $10,000 – $15,000 a month (this was after paying for all accommodations, travel, etc). We stayed pretty close to budget the first 2 months. Not so much the 3rd month when we got to the UK.

Here is the final of what we actually spent on our 95 day trip in Europe:

Accommodations

These came out to be about $210 on average a night. In the end we liked every place we stayed. Some we liked more than others, but overall we were very happy with everywhere we stayed.

We did a combination of eating out and grocery shopping. With the majority of it being eating out. We usually only did 1 sit down type of meal a day – meaning a meal with a server. The other meal was either just grabbing something at the store or doing a fast food type of meal or getting take out food and bringing it back to our place.

A lot of times we did a later breakfast and an early dinner with just a few snacks in between – which a lot of the time was gelato :).

Here is a breakdown on the travel expenses:

We really liked the Eurail and would definitely recommend using it when traveling in Europe! We were also very happy we rented the car in the places we did. The Ferry to Dublin was another great way to travel.

Most of the activities were purchased through GetYourGuide or direct on the places website. A lot of it we planned the day before we went. Some of it we did ahead of time.

We took cash out and used it. We didn’t need much cash as most places took a card. But there were still a few places that were cash only. I did not track where we spent the cash we took out but I would say most likely on food – which would increase the food total.

We always went to an ATM to get cash out.

Miscellaneous

This was for the things I wasn’t sure what they were when I looked on my card. Most of it was random things, shopping, probably food, a few activities. So if you are trying to be really accurate take this money and split it across travel, food and activities.

Things To Get Ahead Of Time

Always be sure your passport is as current as it needs to be! In most places it can’t be expiring within 6 months so be sure to check that based on the country you are going to.

International Drivers License – we would be driving in another country. We saw mixed reviews on if you needed this but figured we would get it just in case. It was easy and we did it at a Triple A location. We did need this in Italy!

Covid Vaccine Cards

Who knows what will happen with this. But for now we knew we all needed to be current with our shots and needed our vaccine cards.

Travel Locator Forms

Again who knows if this will continue. But Craig did a lot of up front research to make sure we had all of these filled out when we needed them. It is always good to research where you are going and what you will need before you get to the airport.

Internet/Cell Coverage

I would be working while we were there. Plus we wanted to be sure we had a way to stay in touch with family and friends back in the US. Craig asked around and did some research and GoogleFi seemed to be the best solution.

We were able to get a plan that had a hotspot option so I can use it for work as well. Plus a lot of the places we stayed at would have WiFi.

The coverage was good enough and worked well for us for the whole 3 months.

**Travel Tip – we did get a message that we had to use our plan state side after 3 months or it wouldn’t work for us anymore! Luckily we were heading back so it was all good.

Originally we left the sim cards from our Verizon plans at home. We ended up needing my parents to bring them to us in Europe (luckily they were meeting us in Italy). I had some issues getting verification texts on GoogleFi to access a few of my work things.

That being said I would bring those along with you just in case you need them.

We did pause our kids Verizon plans while we were in Europe. But kept ours active so we could do call and text forwarding.

When researching for places to stay it was important to me that every other place had at least a washer that I could use. A lot of places in Europe do not have dryers. For that reason we brought a travel clothes line that we did end up using multiple times!

We only had limited clothes since we just had a backpack. With having a washing machine at least every other stop we were able to make it work. Probably since we were moving so quickly! In any case don’t forget how important this could be to you on your trip. Especailly if you aren’t bringing a new outfit and underwear for each day.

It is usually listed on the booking site if they have one or not or else reach out to ask. A few times we didn’t think they would and they did!

I would say I don’t know if we were smart about this. Or if it just worked out but we didn’t stress about exchanging any money before we got to each location. We brought $500 US dollars with us – that we never touched.

Once we got to a new currency location – luckily all of the EU was Euros so that meant we could use the same money in most countries, we would just go to an ATM and get money out. The ones that were different were Switzerland, Czech Republic and the UK (not Ireland they are Euros).

We had heard to be sure the ATM looked legit and to keep an eye out for what the local banks were called and to make sure the ATM was associated with one of those banks. It was never an issue for us and we were always able to find an ATM.

**NOTE – we had heard that when the ATM machine asks you if you want the conversion rate to say No! If you say yes you are going to be double charged for the conversion rate. Same thing when using your card always say you want it charged in whatever currency is where you are. That way your bank does the conversion rate and it is usually better.

We used our CC or phone – with the tap to pay – everywhere we could. Which was most places, but there were still a few random stops that were cash only so we tried to always have some cash on us.

Overall this was not stressful and worked very seamlessly. Just be sure your debit card will work internationally and same with your CC. This is an easy call to your bank or CC company.

People asked about the language barrier. For the most part it was not much of an issue. Almost everyone spoke some English. And if they didn’t, Google Translate on our phone worked great.

There were definitely times we had to be patient or that made it hard to order the exact food or drink that we wanted, but overall it was totally fine as long as we had a little patience.

What To Pack

I am going to do this as its own post as I think it makes sense to have its own. I didn’t want to write this until we had been on the trip for over a month to make sure what we brought with was right! Post coming soon – but know that going with the backpack worked out great and was plenty of clothes for our whole trip!

There you have it how to plan your Europe trip!! Time to get planning!!

If you are looking for more info about places to visit and what to do. Check out these posts:

Tips on Visiting All 5 Cinque Terre Towns (Itinerary Included)

Backpacking Europe Packing List (With Kids!)

30+ Best Things To Do In Lisbon, Portugal

1 Day In Belem (Lisbon) – 9 Awesome Places To Visit

1 Day In Sintra Portugal – 3 Places You Don’t Want To Miss!

One Day In Madrid Itinerary – 14 Stops Not To Miss!

A Tourist Guide To Las Fallas Festival in Valencia Spain

15+ Things to do in Tuscany, Italy

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The post How To Plan A Trip To Europe appeared first on Crazy Family Adventure .

Learn the ins and outs of how to plan a trip to Europe! Where to go, where to stay, how to get around, budget and more!

Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

  • Travel Destinations

How To Plan A Europe Trip By Train

Published: December 5, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Cyndi Tolson

  • Plan Your Trip
  • Travel Essentials & Accessories
  • Travel Guide
  • Travel Tips

how-to-plan-a-europe-trip-by-train

Introduction

Europe is a continent filled with rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant cities, making it a dream destination for travelers. And what better way to explore Europe than by train? Train travel offers a unique and immersive experience, allowing you to soak in the scenic beauty and connect with the local culture as you journey through different countries.

Embarking on a train trip across Europe requires careful planning and research to ensure a smooth and memorable journey. From selecting your destinations to booking tickets and packing your bags, there are several factors to consider. This article will guide you through the process of planning a Europe trip by train, helping you make the most of your adventure.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or planning your first trip to Europe, train travel offers a convenient and efficient way to explore the diverse landscapes and vibrant cities. From the vibrant streets of Paris to the historic sites of Rome, the picturesque canals of Amsterdam to the stunning fjords of Norway, Europe has something to offer for every traveler.

Not only does train travel provide an opportunity to witness the breathtaking beauty of the continent, but it also allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture. As you journey through different countries, you’ll have the chance to interact with locals, sample delicious cuisine, and discover hidden gems off the beaten path.

With an extensive railway network connecting major cities and towns, traveling by train in Europe is both efficient and comfortable. High-speed trains whisk you between destinations, while regional trains offer a more leisurely pace, allowing you to savor the scenic views along the way.

Whether you’re planning a short trip or an extended adventure, a well-planned train trip can be a cost-effective way to explore multiple countries. By choosing the right train routes and accommodations, you can save money on transportation and spend more on experiencing the local culture, trying delicious cuisine, and visiting iconic landmarks.

In the following sections, we’ll delve into the essential aspects of planning a Europe trip by train, from choosing your destinations and researching train routes to booking tickets, navigating train stations, and managing your budget. So, let’s embark on a journey through the enchanting landscapes and vibrant cities of Europe!

Choosing Your Destinations

One of the first steps in planning a Europe trip by train is selecting the destinations you want to visit. Europe offers a myriad of options, from bustling cities to quaint villages, historical landmarks to natural wonders. Here are some tips to help you narrow down your choices:

  • Research: Start by researching different countries and cities in Europe. Consider your interests, whether it’s art and culture, history, nature, or nightlife. Look for destinations that align with your preferences.
  • Must-See Landmarks: Make a list of the iconic landmarks you don’t want to miss. This could include the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the Colosseum in Rome, the Acropolis in Athens, or the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona. Identify the cities or regions where these landmarks are located.
  • Off-the-Beaten-Path: Europe is not just about the popular tourist destinations. Research lesser-known towns and villages that offer unique experiences and a glimpse into local life. These hidden gems can provide a more authentic and memorable travel experience.
  • Consider Proximity: Take into account the proximity of destinations you wish to visit. Europe’s efficient train system allows for easy travel between neighboring countries and cities, making it convenient to explore multiple places.
  • Diversity: Aim for a blend of experiences. Include a mix of big cities, charming towns, and natural landscapes in your itinerary. This will give you a well-rounded experience of the continent.

Once you have a list of potential destinations, make sure to check their accessibility by train. Research train routes and connections to ensure that your chosen locations are well-connected and easily reachable. This will help you save time and avoid any unnecessary detours during your journey.

Remember that there is no right or wrong answer when it comes to choosing your destinations. It ultimately depends on your personal preferences and interests. As you plan your Europe trip, consider what excites you the most and go with your gut instinct. After all, the best travel experiences often come from following your passions and exploring the places that truly speak to you.

Researching Train Routes

Once you have a list of destinations for your Europe trip, the next step is to research train routes that will connect these locations. Europe has an extensive and efficient railway network that makes traveling between cities and countries convenient and enjoyable. Here are some tips to help you research train routes:

  • Use Online Resources: Utilize various online resources, such as official railway websites, travel forums, and train route planners, to gather information about train connections. Websites like Rail Europe and Eurail provide comprehensive information about train routes, schedules, and ticket prices.
  • Consider High-Speed Trains: In Europe, high-speed trains like the Eurostar, Thalys, and ICE offer rapid connections between major cities. These trains are comfortable, modern, and often provide amenities like Wi-Fi and onboard dining. Research if there are any high-speed train options available for the routes you plan to take.
  • Check Regional Train Services: While high-speed trains are efficient for long distances, regional trains are perfect for exploring smaller towns and countryside. Research regional train services that connect your chosen destinations and consider incorporating them into your itinerary for a more scenic and immersive experience.
  • Check for Direct Routes: Look for direct train routes between your destinations to minimize travel time and avoid unnecessary transfers. Direct routes often provide a smoother and more convenient travel experience.
  • Consider Overnight Trains: Overnight trains are a great option for long journeys between distant cities. They allow you to save time and money on accommodation while you sleep onboard. Research if there are any overnight train options available for the routes you plan to take.

When researching train routes, be sure to consider the duration of the journey, as well as any stops or transfers along the way. Take note of the departure and arrival times to plan your schedule effectively. It’s also advisable to check for any potential disruptions or maintenance works on the train lines during your travel dates.

Once you have a clear understanding of the train routes you want to take, it’s time to move on to the next step: booking your train tickets.

Booking Train Tickets

Booking train tickets for your Europe trip can be done through various channels, providing you with flexibility and convenience. Here are some tips to help you navigate the process of booking train tickets:

  • Official Railway Websites: Start by checking the official websites of the national railway companies in the countries you plan to visit. These websites often provide the most accurate and up-to-date information on train schedules and ticket prices. You can typically book tickets directly on these websites.
  • Third-Party Websites: There are several reputable third-party websites that offer train ticket bookings across multiple countries. Examples include Rail Europe, Trainline, and Omio. These websites provide a user-friendly interface, making it easy to search for train routes, compare prices, and book tickets.
  • Eurail Pass: If you plan to do extensive train travel within Europe and visit multiple countries, consider purchasing a Eurail Pass. The Eurail Pass allows you to travel on various trains within a specific timeframe. It offers flexibility and cost savings, especially if you plan to take long-distance or multiple train journeys.
  • Advance Booking: Train tickets in Europe can get expensive, especially if you book them close to your travel date. To secure the best prices, book your train tickets in advance. Many railway companies release tickets three to six months before the travel date, and booking early can help you snag the best deals.
  • Flexible Tickets: If you prefer to have flexibility in your travel plans, consider booking flexible tickets that allow changes or cancellations. While these tickets may be slightly more expensive, they provide peace of mind in case your travel itinerary needs adjustments.

When booking train tickets, consider the type of seating or accommodation you prefer. Most trains offer different classes, including standard, first class, and sleeper options. First-class cabins provide more spacious seating and additional amenities, while sleeper cabins offer overnight accommodations for long journeys.

It’s important to note that some popular train routes, such as the Venice to Vienna or Paris to Amsterdam routes, may require seat reservations in addition to the train ticket. Check if your chosen route requires seat reservations, as this ensures that you have a guaranteed seat on the train.

Lastly, keep track of your ticket confirmations and make sure to print them or have them easily accessible on your mobile device. It’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with the terms and conditions of your ticket, including refund policies and any restrictions on exchanges or modifications.

By following these tips, you can secure your train tickets hassle-free and be well-prepared for your journey through Europe’s magnificent landscapes and captivating cities.

Understanding Eurail Passes

If you’re planning to do extensive train travel across Europe, one option to consider is purchasing a Eurail Pass. A Eurail Pass is a convenient and cost-effective way to explore multiple countries within a specific timeframe. Here’s what you need to know about Eurail Passes:

  • Types of Eurail Passes: There are different types of Eurail Passes available to suit your travel needs. The Global Pass allows unlimited travel in multiple countries, while the One Country Pass focuses on a single country. Additionally, there are regional passes that cover specific regions or combinations of countries. Choose the pass that aligns with your planned itinerary.
  • Valid Countries: Eurail Passes are valid in a wide range of countries across Europe, including popular destinations like France, Italy, Germany, Spain, and the United Kingdom. Check the list of countries covered by the pass to ensure it aligns with your desired travel destinations.
  • Flexibility: Eurail Passes offer flexibility, allowing you to choose your travel dates within the pass’s validity period. This means you can be spontaneous and change your itinerary as you go. However, keep in mind that some trains may require seat reservations, so it’s advisable to check and reserve seats in advance for popular routes.
  • Types of Trains: With a Eurail Pass, you can travel on various types of trains, including high-speed trains, regional trains, and night trains. This gives you the freedom to explore different regions and experience the diverse landscapes of Europe.
  • Cost Savings: The cost of a Eurail Pass can be more affordable than purchasing individual train tickets, especially if you plan to take multiple long-distance journeys or visit several countries. Calculate the potential cost of individual tickets for your planned itinerary and compare it to the cost of a Eurail Pass to determine if it’s a cost-effective option for you.

It’s important to note that Eurail Passes are generally available to non-European residents. If you are a European resident, you may be eligible for a similar pass called Interrail Pass, which also allows for unlimited train travel within Europe.

Before purchasing a Eurail Pass, consider your travel plans and compare the cost of the pass to the prices of individual train tickets. If you plan to travel extensively and visit multiple countries within the pass’s validity period, a Eurail Pass can offer convenience, flexibility, and cost savings. However, if you have a more limited itinerary or prefer to book tickets as you go, individual train tickets may be a better fit.

Be sure to familiarize yourself with the terms and conditions of the Eurail Pass, such as the validity period, rules for seat reservations, and any additional benefits or discounts included with the pass. Understanding the details will help you make the most of your Eurail Pass and enjoy seamless train travel throughout your Europe trip.

Packing for Your Trip

When preparing for your Europe trip by train, packing efficiently and appropriately is essential. Here are some tips to help you pack smart and ensure you have everything you need for a comfortable journey:

  • Check the Weather: Before you start packing, familiarize yourself with the weather conditions in the countries and regions you’ll be visiting. Pack clothing suitable for the season and bring versatile pieces that can be layered for changing weather conditions.
  • Opt for a Carry-On: As you’ll be traveling by train, it’s recommended to pack light and opt for a carry-on-sized suitcase or backpack. This will make it easier to navigate train stations and store your luggage in the designated compartments or overhead racks.
  • Essentials: Make a checklist of essential items to pack, including travel documents, such as passports and visas, train tickets or Eurail Pass, travel adapters, and a copy of your itinerary. Don’t forget to pack toiletries, medications, and any necessary personal items.
  • Clothing: Pack a mix of comfortable and versatile clothing, suitable for walking and exploring different cities and attractions. Stick to a color scheme to create more outfit options with fewer items. Include essentials like comfortable walking shoes, a lightweight jacket or sweater, and a travel umbrella or raincoat.
  • Electronics: If you plan to bring electronics, such as a smartphone, camera, or laptop, don’t forget to pack chargers, adapters, and extra batteries. It’s also wise to have a portable power bank to keep your devices charged during long train journeys.
  • Entertainment: Train travel can involve long stretches of time, so pack some form of entertainment, such as books, magazines, or a tablet for movies and games. This will help pass the time and make your journey more enjoyable.
  • Snacks and Water: While there are often food options available onboard trains, it’s a good idea to pack some snacks and a refillable water bottle. This will ensure you have something to eat and drink during your journey, especially on longer train rides.
  • Travel Accessories: Don’t forget to pack travel accessories like a neck pillow, earplugs, sleep mask, and a small lock for securing your luggage. These items will enhance your comfort and security during your train travel.

Remember to pack efficiently by rolling your clothes to save space and utilizing packing cubes or compression bags to organize your belongings. Keep any essential items and important documents easily accessible in your day bag or carry-on for quick retrieval.

Lastly, be mindful of the weight and size restrictions imposed by the train stations and ensure that your luggage meets the requirements. Keeping your luggage compact and manageable will make your train travel experience more convenient and enjoyable.

By packing smart and light, you can focus on making the most of your train journey and exploring the incredible destinations that Europe has to offer.

Navigating Train Stations

Train stations in Europe can be bustling hubs of activity, so knowing how to navigate them will help make your journey smoother and more enjoyable. Here are some tips to help you navigate train stations:

  • Arrive Early: It’s recommended to arrive at the train station well in advance of your departure time. This allows you to familiarize yourself with the station layout, locate your platform, and ensure a stress-free boarding experience.
  • Follow Signage: Train stations are equipped with clear signage in multiple languages to guide passengers. Look for signs indicating platforms, ticket offices, restrooms, waiting areas, and other amenities. Utilize maps provided at the station or on official train station apps to find your way around.
  • Validate Your Ticket: If you are traveling with individual train tickets, pay attention to whether they need to be validated prior to boarding the train. Some tickets may require validation at machines located on the platforms or in the station concourse.
  • Keep Important Documents Handy: Have your train tickets or Eurail Pass easily accessible, as you may need to present them to station staff or ticket inspectors. Keeping them in a designated pocket or wallet ensures quick access and avoids any last-minute scrambling.
  • Ask for Assistance: If you’re unsure about where to go or need help, don’t hesitate to ask station staff or information desks for assistance. They are there to help passengers navigate the station, provide information about train schedules, and offer guidance.
  • Watch for Platform Announcements: Pay attention to platform announcements or display boards for any changes or updates regarding your train. Platforms can sometimes change at the last minute, so stay vigilant and listen for any announcements or check the information boards periodically.
  • Be Mindful of Your Belongings: Train stations can be busy and crowded, so it’s important to remain vigilant with your belongings. Keep an eye on your luggage and valuables at all times, and be cautious of pickpockets. If you’re traveling with larger luggage, ensure it is securely stored or lockable.
  • Utilize Luggage Storage: If you have time between train connections and want to explore the city or town, many train stations offer luggage storage facilities. Take advantage of these services to free yourself from the burden of carrying your bags and explore unencumbered.
  • Stay Connected: Train stations often have Wi-Fi access available, so take advantage of it to stay connected and access any necessary information. Having internet access can help you check train schedules, confirm platform changes, and stay in touch with fellow travelers.

Remember, each train station may have its unique layout and processes, so some variations in navigating train stations may occur. However, these general tips should provide you with a solid foundation for navigating most European train stations.

By being prepared, staying organized, and asking for assistance when needed, you can navigate train stations with confidence and make the most of your train travel experience in Europe.

Getting Around in Cities

Exploring cities in Europe is an integral part of any train trip. Once you arrive at your destination, you’ll need to know how to navigate the city efficiently. Here are some tips for getting around in cities:

  • Public Transportation: Most European cities have well-developed public transportation systems, including buses, trams, and metros. Familiarize yourself with the local public transportation options and consider purchasing a city travel card or day pass for unlimited rides.
  • Walking: Many European cities have compact and pedestrian-friendly city centers, making walking an excellent option for shorter distances. Exploring on foot allows you to absorb the atmosphere, discover hidden gems, and stumble upon charming cafés, shops, and landmarks.
  • Bike Rentals: Some cities offer bike-sharing programs or bike rentals, allowing you to cycle around and explore at your own pace. This eco-friendly mode of transportation can be a fun and efficient way to see the sights and cover more ground.
  • Taxis and Rideshares: Taxis and rideshare services like Uber are available in most European cities. They can be a convenient option, especially when traveling with heavy luggage or during late-night hours. Check local regulations and pricing before using these services.
  • Tourist Passes: Some cities offer special tourist passes that include unlimited public transportation rides and discounts on attractions. These passes can provide cost savings and simplify your city exploration. Research if the city you’re visiting offers such passes.
  • Offline Maps and Travel Apps: Download offline maps or use travel apps to navigate the city easily. Apps like Google Maps, Citymapper, or local transit apps provide real-time directions, public transportation schedules, and alternative route options.
  • Ask for Recommendations: Don’t be afraid to ask locals or hotel staff for recommendations on the best way to get around the city. They can often suggest shortcuts, tips for avoiding tourist crowds, and hidden gems that may not be found in guidebooks.
  • Be Mindful of Rush Hour: Consider the time of day when planning your city exploration. Rush hour can significantly impact the efficiency and speed of public transportation, so try to avoid peak commuting times if possible.
  • Language and Ticketing: Familiarize yourself with basic phrases or the local language for navigating public transportation. It’s also helpful to understand the ticketing system, whether it requires purchasing tickets in advance or validating them upon boarding.

Each city will have its unique transportation system and intricacies, so it’s essential to research and plan accordingly. Take some time to understand the public transportation options available in each city you’ll be visiting to make the most of your time and optimize your city exploration.

Remember, getting around in cities is not only about reaching your desired destinations but also immersing yourself in the local culture, discovering hidden corners, and embracing the rhythm and vibe of each city you visit.

Managing Your Budget

Traveling in Europe can be a fulfilling experience, but it’s important to manage your budget effectively to make the most of your trip without breaking the bank. Here are some tips for managing your budget while traveling by train in Europe:

  • Plan Ahead: Create a realistic budget for your trip, taking into account transportation costs, accommodation, meals, attractions, and other expenses. Research the average prices in the countries you’ll be visiting to get a sense of what to expect.
  • Transportation: Utilize cost-effective transportation options like regional trains or buses for shorter distances between cities or towns. If you plan to travel extensively, consider purchasing a Eurail Pass or individual train tickets in advance to take advantage of early booking discounts.
  • Accommodation: Look for budget-friendly accommodations like hostels, guesthouses, or budget hotels. Consider staying in less touristy areas or booking in advance to secure better deals. Alternatively, consider options like Airbnb or staying with locals through platforms like Couchsurfing.
  • Meals: Eating out can add up quickly, so be mindful of your dining expenses. Take advantage of local markets or grocery stores to buy snacks or items for picnics. Sampling street food or opting for budget-friendly eateries can also help you save money while experiencing local cuisine.
  • Free Attractions: Europe offers a wealth of free attractions, including parks, architectural wonders, and scenic landscapes. Take advantage of these opportunities to explore and enjoy without spending a dime. Additionally, many museums and attractions offer discounted or free admission on certain days or times.
  • Use Local Currency: When paying for expenses, use the local currency instead of relying on exchange rates at the airport or train stations. This can help you get better rates and avoid unnecessary fees or charges.
  • Track Your Expenses: Keep track of your expenses throughout your journey. Use a budgeting app or simply jot down your expenditures in a notebook. This will help you stay aware of your spending and make adjustments if necessary.
  • Take Advantage of Discounts: Look out for student discounts, senior discounts, or other promotional offers that may be applicable to attractions, transportation, or accommodations. Carry relevant identification or membership cards to avail these discounts.
  • Avoid Peak Season: If possible, consider traveling during off-peak seasons or shoulder seasons. Prices for accommodations, flights, and attractions tend to be lower, and popular tourist destinations are less crowded.
  • Engage in Free or Low-Cost Activities: Take advantage of free walking tours, local festivals, or community events. These activities not only provide insight into the local culture but also allow you to participate without spending a fortune.

Remember, managing your budget doesn’t mean sacrificing experiences. It’s about being mindful of your spending, making educated choices, and finding a balance between cost-effective options and the activities that matter most to you.

By planning ahead, researching affordable options, and seeking out cost-saving opportunities, you can have a remarkable journey through Europe while staying within your budget.

Safety Tips for Train Travel in Europe

Train travel in Europe is generally safe and reliable, but it’s always important to prioritize your safety and take precautions to ensure a smooth and secure journey. Here are some safety tips for train travel in Europe:

  • Secure Your Belongings: Keep a close eye on your luggage and personal belongings at all times. Avoid placing valuable items in easily accessible exterior pockets or bags. Use a lock or fasten your bags together to deter potential thieves.
  • Stay Alert: Be aware of your surroundings and remain vigilant, especially in crowded areas or during busy periods. Stay alert to any suspicious behavior and report any concerns to train staff or authorities if necessary.
  • Keep Important Documents Safe: Store your travel documents, such as passports, train tickets, and identification, securely on your person or in a hidden travel pouch. Make digital copies of these documents and keep them stored in a secure online location.
  • Avoid Revealing Valuables: Minimize the display of expensive jewelry, electronics, or large sums of cash, as it can attract unwanted attention. Blend in with the locals by dressing modestly and avoiding flashy attire.
  • Know Emergency Procedures: Familiarize yourself with emergency procedures and the location of emergency exits on the train. Take note of the emergency contact information provided in the train compartments or displayed in the stations.
  • Use Locker Facilities: If you have a layover or need to temporarily store your luggage, utilize locker facilities at the train stations. This ensures that your belongings are secure and allows you to explore without the burden of carrying everything with you.
  • Travel in Groups: If possible, travel with a companion or in a group, especially during nighttime or in less crowded areas. There is safety in numbers, and having someone to watch your back can provide an extra level of security.
  • Stay in Well-Lit Areas: When waiting for trains or walking through train stations, stick to well-lit and populated areas. Avoid secluded or dimly lit places, particularly during late hours.
  • Be Cautious with Strangers: While train travel can be a great opportunity to meet new people, exercise caution when interacting with strangers. Avoid sharing personal information or financial details, and be wary of anyone who seems overly intrusive or suspicious.
  • Emergency Contact Information: Keep a list of emergency contact numbers for the countries you’ll be visiting and familiarize yourself with the local emergency services. In case of any emergencies or incidents, you’ll know who to contact for assistance.

It’s important to note that these safety tips apply to train travel in general and are not limited to Europe. Use common sense, be cautious, and trust your instincts to ensure a safe and enjoyable train journey throughout Europe. Remember, a little precaution can go a long way in ensuring a worry-free travel experience.

Embarking on a train trip through Europe is an incredible adventure that allows you to experience the diverse cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant cities that the continent has to offer. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can plan your Europe trip by train with confidence and make the most of your journey.

Choosing your destinations carefully, researching train routes, and booking tickets in advance will help ensure a smooth and efficient travel experience. Packing smartly, navigating train stations, and getting around cities will enhance your comfort and convenience while exploring the different destinations. Managing your budget and prioritizing safety will contribute to a worry-free and enjoyable trip.

As you travel by train in Europe, immerse yourself in the local culture, sample delicious cuisine, and embark on unforgettable adventures. Whether you’re strolling along the canals of Amsterdam, marveling at the historic sites of Rome, or exploring the stunning landscapes of Switzerland, each destination offers its unique charm and enriching experiences.

Remember to stay flexible, embrace spontaneity, and allow yourself to be swept away by the magic of train travel through Europe. The journey itself becomes an integral part of the experience, as you watch picturesque landscapes pass by and connect with fellow travelers from around the world.

So, embark on your European train adventure with enthusiasm and an open mind. Discover the hidden gems, immerse yourself in the local customs, and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. Bon voyage!

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New to riding a European sleeper train? Here’s the best way to book tickets

As more people reconsider how they travel on a warming planet, a small but growing contingent in Europe wants to switch from high-emission, short-haul planes to more climate-friendly sleeper trains.

But for all the climate benefits – plus the enduring romance of overnight train journeys – building a vacation around them is not always simple.

Several national railways and private operators have moved in to meet the rising demand, and the result is a patchwork of overnight routes sold at over 30 different websites. Many routes may not run every day, and online ticket aggregators don't include all countries that have night trains.

"I've always gone around on trains and boats and buses, so it was normal for me," said Cat Jones, founder of the flight-free travel agency Byway. "But friends would say, 'Oh, that sounds amazing, but no way am I going to plan all that.' "

Sleeper train advocates, however, say the experience and convenience of riding the rails makes them worth any booking difficulty. With patience and a few tips, you'll never have to deal with airport security lines in the middle of your European holiday.

Air travel in Europe is a mess. Trains are a cheaper, quicker workaround.

1. Start with a little research

First, make sure routes exist between your desired cities. Back on Track, a European rail advocacy group, maintains a night train database with all current and soon-to-launch routes on the continent. Just be aware that city names are listed with local spellings, such as Praha for Prague.

Then head to the sleeper train section of Man in Seat 61, a website run by former rail industry worker Mark Smith that exhaustively explains what to expect. The site has details on dozens of international routes, down to seat and berth numbers on specific trains – even photos of the food and where to find electrical outlets.

Many operators provide perks like breakfast and free water, and some allow female travelers to book shared spaces only with other women.

Once you've found the right route, check Trainline and RailEurope, which sell tickets on most railways. Or go directly to the operator's website; all will have an option to switch the language to English.

2. Decide how much privacy you need

Night trains' configuration varies by operator, line and carriage. Many trains have a car or two with traditional upright seats selling for as little as 19 euros, but they recline and are much more spacious than an airplane seat.

Other carriages have sleeper cabins with anywhere from one to six beds, which likely fold up when not in use. It's possible to book an entire cabin for a family or group of friends, but you'll pay extra.

Sarah Marks, a frequent sleeper train traveler from London, said she was nervous the first time sharing a cabin, but ultimately found it was a great way to meet like-minded travelers. "It's quite an intimate experience," she said. "But hand over heart, every single one has been really nice and actually enhanced my experience."

3. Plan to book in advance – but not too much in advance

Because most rail companies use dynamic pricing, as airlines do, the price of a ticket likely will rise as the date approaches.

But if you search for tickets now for summer travel, chances are you won't see the routes available. Many railways do not open ticket sales until two or three months in advance. Several factors influence the timing, but it's mostly because track maintenance is usually scheduled overnight to minimize commuter disruption.

"With sleeper trains, that's tricky to plan around," Smith said, noting that he often hears concerns from Americans who like to plan their trips several months in advance.

4. Be flexible

During peak times, the most popular routes, such as Paris to Berlin, can sell out or become prohibitively expensive for some travelers.

Jones said that rather than being deterred, travelers should consider rail travel as a way to break the mold of point-to-point round trips.

"If what people want is not available on that day, do a daytime train and we'll put you on another sleeper somewhere else," she said. Because Europe's rail network is so extensive, there are many ways to get from point A to point B and back again, maybe returning through a city you might not have considered visiting.

"By relying on that network effect," she said. "There's always an amazing option as long as you're flexible."

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New to riding a sleeper train? Here’s the best way to book tickets

Sarah Marks, of London, looks out at the Italian countryside on TrenItalia's Intercity Notte sleeper train from Palermo to Rome, on June 10, 2023. A growing number of climate-conscious Europeans are giving up flying in favor of long-haul trains. (Sarah Marks via AP)

Sarah Marks, of London, looks out at the Italian countryside on TrenItalia’s Intercity Notte sleeper train from Palermo to Rome, on June 10, 2023. A growing number of climate-conscious Europeans are giving up flying in favor of long-haul trains. (Sarah Marks via AP)

This image released by ÖBB shows a Nightjet sleeper train at a station in Vienna, Austria. A growing number of climate-conscious Europeans are giving up flying in favor of long-haul trains. (Marek Knopp/ÖBB via AP)

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As more people reconsider how they travel on a warming planet, a small but growing contingent in Europe wants to switch from high-emission, short-haul planes to more climate-friendly sleeper trains .

But for all the climate benefits — plus the enduring romance of overnight train journeys — it’s not always simple building a vacation around them.

Several national railways and private operators have moved in to meet the rising demand, and the result is a patchwork of overnight routes sold at over 30 different websites. Many routes may not run every day, and online ticket aggregators don’t include all countries that have night trains.

“I’ve always gone around on trains and boats and buses, so it was normal for me,” said Cat Jones, founder of the flight-free travel agency Byway. “But friends would say, ‘Oh, that sounds amazing, but no way am I going to plan all that.’”

Sleeper train advocates, however, say the experience and convenience of riding the rails makes them worth any booking difficulty. With patience and a few tips, you’ll never have to deal with airport security lines in the middle of your European holiday.

START WITH A LITTLE RESEARCH

Police on site after an explosion in Tyreso, Sweden, Thursday March 7, 2023. Sweden’s Security Service said Thursday it had arrested four people on suspicion of preparing “terrorist offenses” with links to Islamic extremism and organized crime. Several houses were searched in the operation. (Anders Wiklund/TT via AP)

First, make sure routes exist between your desired cities. Back on Track, a European rail advocacy group, maintains a night train database with all current and soon-to-launch routes on the continent. Just be aware that city names are listed with local spellings, such as Praha for Prague.

Then head to the sleeper train section of Man in Seat 61 , a website run by former rail industry worker Mark Smith that exhaustively explains what to expect. The site has details on dozens of international routes, down to seat and berth numbers on specific trains — even photos of the food and where to find electrical outlets.

Many operators provide perks like breakfast and free water, and some allow female travelers to book shared spaces only with other women.

Once you’ve found the right route, check Trainline and RailEurope, which sell tickets on most railways. Or go directly to the operator’s website; all will have an option to switch the language to English.

DECIDE HOW MUCH PRIVACY YOU NEED

Night trains’ configuration varies by operator, line and carriage. Many trains have a car or two with traditional upright seats selling for as little as 19 euros, but they recline and are much more spacious than an airplane seat.

Other carriages have sleeper cabins with anywhere from one to six beds, which likely fold up when not in use. It’s possible to book an entire cabin for a family or group of friends, but you’ll pay extra.

Sarah Marks, a frequent sleeper train traveler from London, said she was nervous the first time sharing a cabin, but ultimately found it was a great way to meet like-minded travelers. “It’s quite an intimate experience,” she said. “But hand over heart, every single one has been really nice and actually enhanced my experience.”

PLAN TO BOOK IN ADVANCE — BUT NOT TOO FAR IN ADVANCE

Because most rail companies use dynamic pricing, as airlines do, the price of a ticket likely will rise as the date approaches.

But if you search for tickets now for summer travel, chances are you won’t see the routes available. Many railways do not open ticket sales until two or three months in advance. Several factors influence the timing, but it’s mostly because track maintenance usually is scheduled overnight to minimize commuter disruption.

“With sleeper trains that’s tricky to plan around,” Smith said, noting that he often hears concerns from Americans who like to plan their trips several months in advance.

BE FLEXIBLE

The most popular routes, such as Paris to Berlin, can sell out or become prohibitively expensive for some travelers during peak times.

Rather than be deterred, travelers should think of rail travel as breaking the mold of point-to-point round trips, said Jones.

“If what people want is not available on that day, do a daytime train and we’ll put you on another sleeper somewhere else,” she said. Because Europe’s rail network is so extensive, there are many ways to get from point A to point B and back again, maybe returning through a city you might not have considered visiting.

“By relying on that network effect,” she said, “there’s always an amazing option as long as you’re flexible.”

EDITOR’S NOTE: Albert Stumm lives in Barcelona and writes about food, travel and wellness. Find his work at https://www.albertstumm.com

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Introduction to Citi Transfer Partners

List of citi transfer partners, how to transfer citi points.

  • How to earn Citi ThankYou points

Citi Transfer Partners: Airlines, Hotels, and More

Our experts answer readers' credit card questions and write unbiased product reviews ( here's how we assess credit cards ). In some cases, we receive a commission from our partners ; however, our opinions are our own. Terms apply to offers listed on this page.

The information for the following product(s) has been collected independently by Business Insider: Citi Premier® Card, Citi Prestige® Card, Citi Rewards+® Card, Citi® Double Cash Card, Citi Custom Cash℠ Card, AT&T Points Plus® Card. The details for these products have not been reviewed or provided by the issuer.

  • Citi ThankYou points are valuable because the program partners with 14 airlines and 3 hotel chains.
  • Citi's hotel partner programs are Choice Privileges, Wyndham Rewards, and Accor Live Limitless.
  • Other partners include JetBlue, Air France-KLM, Singapore Airlines, and Cathay Pacific.

Overview of Citi Points Transfer

Earning transferable points with rewards credit cards is one of the best strategies you can use to maximize returns on your spending. Programs like Chase Ultimate Rewards ® and Amex Membership Rewards are popular with award travelers, in part because their transfer partners include numerous domestic airlines and popular hotel chains. 

The Citi ThankYou Rewards program is a bit of an underdog in this regard, with just one domestic carrier (JetBlue) among airline transfer options. 

Benefits of Transferring Citi Points

Despite having few domestic airline options, you can still squeeze excellent value from the program — in fact, some of Citi's international airline transfer partners offer lucrative sweet spots that allow you to book award flights for far less than other frequent flyer programs charge.

In addition, the program added Choice Privileges, Wyndham Rewards, and most recently Accor Live Limitless (ALL) to its partner roster, marking the first hotel transfer options since Hilton left the program several years ago.

That's on top of the numerous other ways to use your rewards points, like booking travel directly through the Citi ThankYou Travel Portal or cashing in rewards for gift cards and merchandise. These options are available to any ThankYou Rewards cardholder, but to unlock the ability to transfer points to all of Citi's airline partners, you'll need to have the Citi Premier® Card or Citi Prestige® Card (no longer available to new applicants) in your wallet.

Best Airline Transfer Partners

As with most transferable points programs, there are definitely some partners that are better than others. Depending on the partner and how you redeem your points, the value you get from your transfer can vary significantly.

Here's a look at the best Citi airline transfer partners.

Turkish Airlines Miles & Smiles

It may seem strange that one of the best uses of Citi ThankYou points is transferring to a European airline that most people are likely never to fly. But the real value of Turkish Airlines miles lies in using the Miles & Smiles frequent flyer program to book award flights on its Star Alliance partners.

For example, the Miles & Smiles partner award chart requires only 10,500 Turkish miles for an economy-class flight anywhere within the US, including Hawaii, on Star Alliance partner United Airlines. If you booked the exact same flight through the United MileagePlus frequently flyer program, you'd pay 25,000 United miles.

Using the Miles & Smiles program does take a bit of patience as its online booking site can be hard to navigate, but cheap award prices like these can make it worth the extra effort. 

Air France-KLM Flying Blue

Air France and KLM share the Flying Blue frequent flyer program, and one of the best uses of Flying Blue miles is its recurring promo rewards. Each month, Flying Blue publishes a list of routes with a 25 to 50% discount on mileage costs. This can be a great way to stretch the value of your ThankYou points.

Rates for a one-way economy flight from the US to Europe range from about 15,000 to 30,000 Flying Blue miles. The number of miles required varies quite a bit depending on the date and if the route is on a monthly promo award. Keep in mind Flying Blue adds more taxes and fees than other programs, so you'll have to weigh the savings in miles and the increased cash cost.

Because it's a transfer partner of all of the major transferable rewards currencies, Flying Blue is a great place to combine points balances from different programs.

Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer

Singapore Airlines is also a member of the Star Alliance, which means that you can use KrisFlyer miles to book travel on partner airlines like United, Air Canada, and Lufthansa.

In fact, using Singapore Airlines is also cheaper than using United's own miles for flights anywhere in the continental US to Hawaii. Singapore also has a non-alliance partnership with Alaska Airlines, and you can use as few as 11,500 KrisFlyer miles to get to Hawaii as well. 

For luxury aficionados, Singapore Airlines also flies the ultra-premium Singapore Suites first class on certain routes. Singapore rarely opens up award seats in Suites Class to partner airlines, so transferring to KrisFlyer is often the only way to book these bucket-list awards.

Virgin Atlantic Flying Club

Although Virgin Atlantic is headquartered in the UK, its mileage program offers a fair amount of value for US travelers. You'll often get the best deal from Virgin Atlantic miles when you book award flights on its SkyTeam partners, like Delta.

Because Delta no longer publishes an award chart, the cost of a flight in Delta SkyMiles can vary wildly depending on the route, date, and number of stops. Before you book an award flight using your Delta miles, it pays to check with Virgin Atlantic. It is quite common that the exact same Delta flight will cost fewer miles if you book with Flying Club miles.

Avianca LifeMiles

Avianca is also a member of the Star Alliance, which means that you can use its miles to book partners like United, Lufthansa, and Ethiopian Airlines. Avianca's award chart divides the US into three separate regions, with flights within a region requiring only 7,500 Avianca Lifemiles to book. Some US airline frequent flyer programs would charge 12,500 miles or more for the exact same flights.

Avianca also offers regular promotions that offer huge (150% or more) bonuses on buying or transferring LifeMiles. This can make it easy to top off your balance if you just need a few more miles to book your next trip.

Good Citi Airline Transfer Partners

Some Citi airline transfer partners can provide decent value, but only in certain situations.

Etihad Guest

Etihad is not a member of any airline alliance but has a number of non-alliance partnerships that can provide good value for your Citi ThankYou points. These include Czech Airways (Prague to Seoul in business class for 25,610 Etihad Guest miles) and Royal Air Maroc (New York-JFK to Casablanca for 22,000 miles in economy or 44,000 miles in business class).

Cathay Pacific Asia Miles

Cathay Pacific is a member of the Oneworld alliance and has a distance-based award chart. The number of miles you need will depend on whether you are flying only Cathay Pacific or if you are flying one of its Oneworld partners, like American Airlines or British Airways. A flight from Los Angeles to Hong Kong on Cathay Pacific is only 27,000 miles in economy or 84,000 miles in business class.

Qantas Frequent Flyer

Like Cathay Pacific, Qantas is also a member of the Oneworld alliance and also has a distance-based award chart. The best value for using Qantas miles is on short flights under 600 flown miles on either Qantas or Oneworld partners like American Airlines. These short flights can be had for only 8,000 Qantas miles.

JetBlue TrueBlue

The number of points required for a JetBlue award flight is directly tied to the cash price of a ticket, so it's hard to get outsized value from your TrueBlue points. Still, it is possible to save points by transferring your Citi ThankYou points to JetBlue instead of using them directly to book a paid flight through the Citi portal.

Remember that JetBlue is the only Citi airline transfer partner that you can use without having the Citi Premier® Card or Citi Prestige® Card (though at a lesser ratio of 1,000 ThankYou points to 800 JetBlue points).

Citi Airline Transfer Partners That Aren't Great Value

The rest of the Citi ThankYou airline transfer partners are generally not worth considering, except for extremely niche redemptions.

Aeromexico Club Premier

Aeromexico uses kilometers instead of miles, so its award chart is generally inflated by 1.6x compared to other programs. While other bank program points, such as Amex Membership Rewards , transfer to Aeromexico at a rate of 1:1.6, Citi transfers at only 1:1. 

Eva Air Infinity MileageLands

The award chart for Eva Air Infinity MileageLands is not spectacular when compared to most other airline programs, and you'll generally find better value elsewhere. Eva Air does have some generous stopover allowances, though you can't book stopovers online — instead, you'll need to call the airline directly.

Emirates Skywards

While Emirates first-class cabins are among the best in the world, it's best to use partner miles to book these awards. While Emirates recently reduced the astronomical fuel surcharges they charge on Skywards award tickets, there are other mileage programs that offer better value.

Qatar Airways Privilege Club

Like fellow Gulf carrier Emirates, Qatar has a great premium cabin flight experience that is best booked with partner miles. In Qatar's case, rather than transferring Citi ThankYou points to Qatar Airways Privilege Club, it's better to use American Airlines AAdvantage miles to fly on Qatar Airways.

Thai Airways Royal Orchid Plus

Thai Airways is currently in the middle of bankruptcy, spurred on at least in part by the limited travel demand due to the pandemic. And while bankruptcy does not mean that your Royal Orchid Plus miles would all of a sudden become worthless, it does give you one more reason to avoid transferring your ThankYou points here.

Hotel Partners

It's possible to get decent value from Citi's hotel partners, Choice, Wyndham, and Accor, but because many of their brands are budget-friendly, you might be better off saving your points and paying cash instead. It's also possible to redeem Citi ThankYou points at a rate of 1 cent apiece for stays at these chains by booking through the Citi Travel Portal.

Accor Live Limitless (ALL)

Citi's newest transfer partner is Accor Live Limitless (ALL), which comprises 45 brands across over 5,000 properties worldwide. Accor hotels include Fairmont, Raffles, Sofitel, SLS, and Swisshotel, but most of its properties are located outside the US, making this a better deal for international travelers.

This transfer option is only available to Citi Premier and Prestige cardholders, with a transfer ratio of 2:1 (2 Citi points equals 1 Accor point). Accor doesn't have an award chart; instead, you can redeem points in 2,000-point increments toward a stay discount, where 2,000 points equal 40 euros off your bill. That makes Accor points worth just over 2 cents each, but since there's a 2:1 transfer ratio from Citi, you'll only get a value of just over 1 cent per Citi point (depending on the current exchange rate).

Choice Privileges

The loyalty program of Choice Hotels, Choice Privileges includes brands like Comfort Inn, Quality Inn, Clarion, Cambria, and Ascend Collection hotels. Award prices start at 8,000 points per night and go up to 35,000 points per night, with a few exceptions. Rates also vary depending on the season and even the day of the week you stay.

If you have the Citi Premier® Card or Citi Prestige® Card, the transfer ratio is 1:2 (1 ThankYou point equals 2 Choice points), with transfers in 1,000-point increments. The no-annual-fee Citi Rewards+® Card and Citi ThankYou® Preferred Card have a transfer ratio of 1:1.5 (1 ThankYou points equals 1.5 Choice points), with transfers also in 1,000-point increments. And if you have the Citi® Double Cash Card , you also have the ability to transfer to Choice at a 1:1.5 ratio.

Wyndham Rewards

Wyndham Rewards includes familiar brands like Super 8, Days Inn, Howard Johnson, and Travelodge — as well as over 40,000 vacation rentals through its partnership with Vacasa.

With the Citi Premier® Card or Citi Prestige® Card, you'll get a 1:1 transfer ratio to Wyndham. Otherwise, with the Citi Rewards+® Card, Citi ThankYou® Preferred Card, and Citi® Double Cash Card, the ratio is 5:4 (1,000 Citi ThankYou points = 800 Wyndham points). 

Wyndham's award structure is simple — you'll pay 7,500, 15,000, or 30,000 points for an award night, depending on the property. With Vacasa vacation rentals, you'll pay these fixed points rates per listed bedroom. 

Other Rewards Programs

In addition to airline and hotel transfer partners, Citi ThankYou has one retail transfer partner. 

Sears Shop Your Way

You can transfer your Citi ThankYou points to Sears Shop Your Way points at a rate of 1:10. Shop Your Way points are worth 0.1 cents each, and Sears does sell some third-party gift cards that you can buy with Shop Your Way points.

This would allow you to effectively redeem your Citi ThankYou points for 1 cent per point for gift cards (or other merchandise) available for purchase at Sears. Unless you already have Sears Shop Your Way points and need to top off your account for a redemption, it's easier to redeem Citi ThankYou points directly for gift cards through the ThankYou portal.

Transferring your Citi ThankYou points is a fairly straightforward process. Once you log into your account at thankyou.com, find "More Ways To Redeem" in the top header, then choose "Points Transfer." Or, select "Transfer & Share" in the main menu under "See everything that can be done with ThankYou Points."

After you've selected "Points Transfer," you'll then see a list of Citi transfer partner options available to you. It's important to note that the first and last names on your ThankYou account and the account you're transferring to must match in order to be able to transfer.

Citi Citi Premier® Card

Earn 10x ThankYou® Points per dollar on hotel, car rentals, and attractions (excluding air travel) booked on the Citi Travel℠ portal through 6/30/2024. Earn 3x ThankYou® points on restaurant, supermarket, gas station, air travel, and hotel purchases. Earn 1x ThankYou® points on all other purchases.

21.24% - 29.24% Variable

Earn 60,000 bonus ThankYou® points

Good to Excellent

  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Strong bonus
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Generous bonus categories
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Doesn't offer much in the way of statement credits or other perks
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Citi ThankYou Rewards may not be as convenient as other points for US-based travelers

If you're looking for an all-purpose travel credit card with strong rewards, many ways to use your points, and an annual fee under $100, the Citi Premier should be on your shortlist. Beyond the welcome bonus offer, the Citi Premier® Card offers great 3x earning categories that just about anyone can take advantage of — and the rewards it earns are incredibly flexible.

For most of these partners, the transfer ratio is 1:1, with transfers in 1,000-point increments. The only exception for Citi Premier and Prestige cardholders is Accor (2:1). For other cardholders, JetBlue, Choice, and Wyndham, which are the only transfer partners available (along with Sears Shop Your Way rewards) if you don't have a Citi Premier® Card or Citi Prestige® Card have transfer ratios and availability that vary depending on the card you have.

It's important to note that ThankYou points transfers are one-way and nonrefundable — once you move ThankYou points to a partner, you can not transfer them back to ThankYou Rewards.

How to Earn Citi ThankYou points

You can earn Citi ThankYou points through welcome bonuses and spending on a variety of different Citi credit cards , including:

Remember, you can only access all of Citi's transfer partners if you have the Citi Premier® Card or Citi Prestige® Card. If you have multiple Citi ThankYou credit cards, you can combine your points into one ThankYou account.

Citi points can be transferred to a variety of airline and hotel partners, but not all airlines or hotels are partners. It's important to check the current list of Citi transfer partners for available options.

Transfer times vary by partner. While some transfers are instant, others may take several days to process. It's advisable to plan ahead if you need to use transferred points for specific bookings.

Once transferred, points are subject to the expiration policies of the partner program. This means they could expire if not used within the timeframe set by the partner.

Generally, there are no fees for transferring points from Citi to its partners, but it's always best to confirm any potential costs directly with Citi before making a transfer.

The best use of transferred points varies depending on personal travel preferences, the specific transfer partner, and the value of flights or hotel stays. Comparing redemption options can help maximize value.

Editorial Note: Any opinions, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed in this article are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any card issuer. Read our editorial standards .

Please note: While the offers mentioned above are accurate at the time of publication, they're subject to change at any time and may have changed, or may no longer be available.

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europe trip plan

  • Main content

WTOP News

New to riding a sleeper train? Here’s the best way to book tickets

The Associated Press

March 6, 2024, 11:43 AM

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As more people reconsider how they travel on a warming planet, a small but growing contingent in Europe wants to switch from high-emission, short-haul planes to more climate-friendly sleeper trains .

But for all the climate benefits — plus the enduring romance of overnight train journeys — it’s not always simple building a vacation around them.

Several national railways and private operators have moved in to meet the rising demand, and the result is a patchwork of overnight routes sold at over 30 different websites. Many routes may not run every day, and online ticket aggregators don’t include all countries that have night trains.

“I’ve always gone around on trains and boats and buses, so it was normal for me,” said Cat Jones, founder of the flight-free travel agency Byway. “But friends would say, ‘Oh, that sounds amazing, but no way am I going to plan all that.’”

Sleeper train advocates, however, say the experience and convenience of riding the rails makes them worth any booking difficulty. With patience and a few tips, you’ll never have to deal with airport security lines in the middle of your European holiday.

START WITH A LITTLE RESEARCH

First, make sure routes exist between your desired cities. Back on Track, a European rail advocacy group, maintains a night train database with all current and soon-to-launch routes on the continent. Just be aware that city names are listed with local spellings, such as Praha for Prague.

Then head to the sleeper train section of Man in Seat 61 , a website run by former rail industry worker Mark Smith that exhaustively explains what to expect. The site has details on dozens of international routes, down to seat and berth numbers on specific trains — even photos of the food and where to find electrical outlets.

Many operators provide perks like breakfast and free water, and some allow female travelers to book shared spaces only with other women.

Once you’ve found the right route, check Trainline and RailEurope, which sell tickets on most railways. Or go directly to the operator’s website; all will have an option to switch the language to English.

DECIDE HOW MUCH PRIVACY YOU NEED

Night trains’ configuration varies by operator, line and carriage. Many trains have a car or two with traditional upright seats selling for as little as 19 euros, but they recline and are much more spacious than an airplane seat.

Other carriages have sleeper cabins with anywhere from one to six beds, which likely fold up when not in use. It’s possible to book an entire cabin for a family or group of friends, but you’ll pay extra.

Sarah Marks, a frequent sleeper train traveler from London, said she was nervous the first time sharing a cabin, but ultimately found it was a great way to meet like-minded travelers. “It’s quite an intimate experience,” she said. “But hand over heart, every single one has been really nice and actually enhanced my experience.”

PLAN TO BOOK IN ADVANCE — BUT NOT TOO FAR IN ADVANCE

Because most rail companies use dynamic pricing, as airlines do, the price of a ticket likely will rise as the date approaches.

But if you search for tickets now for summer travel, chances are you won’t see the routes available. Many railways do not open ticket sales until two or three months in advance. Several factors influence the timing, but it’s mostly because track maintenance usually is scheduled overnight to minimize commuter disruption.

“With sleeper trains that’s tricky to plan around,” Smith said, noting that he often hears concerns from Americans who like to plan their trips several months in advance.

BE FLEXIBLE

The most popular routes, such as Paris to Berlin, can sell out or become prohibitively expensive for some travelers during peak times.

Rather than be deterred, travelers should think of rail travel as breaking the mold of point-to-point round trips, said Jones.

“If what people want is not available on that day, do a daytime train and we’ll put you on another sleeper somewhere else,” she said. Because Europe’s rail network is so extensive, there are many ways to get from point A to point B and back again, maybe returning through a city you might not have considered visiting.

“By relying on that network effect,” she said, “there’s always an amazing option as long as you’re flexible.”

EDITOR’S NOTE: Albert Stumm lives in Barcelona and writes about food, travel and wellness. Find his work at https://www.albertstumm.com

Copyright © 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, written or redistributed.

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