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Is A Trip To Europe Worth It? 10 Pros And Cons

Visiting Europe is always a wonderful idea, but one question commonly comes up: is a trip to Europe worth it? When you factor in the time and money necessary to go on a vacation to this spectacular continent, it can quickly become overwhelming, too. You might find yourself wondering, how much will visiting Europe cost? Where should I visit in Europe? Should I go on a guided tour?

Generally speaking, a trip to Europe is worth it. Every country in the continent has an incredible culture and history that you won’t regret experiencing, and the nature is just gorgeous, too. Aside from that, it’s a great opportunity to polish your second language skills and step out of your comfort zone. Visiting Europe isn’t for everyone, though, and there’s plenty of ways to enjoy your vacation at home or even at beautiful places nearby!

In this article, I’ll be looking at some of the best reasons you should visit Europe — and some of the cons that might inspire you to plan an entirely new vacation! I know how crucial it is to plan your vacation right from the beginning, so I’ve created this guide to help you determine if a Europe vacation is right for you — and how you can make it the best it can be.

Table of Contents

1. Pro: Europe’s Architecture And Natural Landscapes Are Beautiful

One of the most understated benefits of visiting Europe is the opportunity to witness the continent’s incredible natural landscapes and breathtaking historical architecture. From Rome’s coliseum to Scotland’s seaside cliffs, every region in the continent is awe-inspiring in its own way. It’s safe to say that you won’t regret soaking in the sights of Europe’s uniquely spectacular expanses.

As you plan your trip to Europe, considering what you might like to see is essential to developing an itinerary, too. For example, if you think biking through a spectacular river city sounds appealing, then visiting Amsterdam might be a perfect fit. But if you’d prefer to see breathtaking masterpieces of architecture and vision, you might find Barcelona or Rome to be a lot more interesting. No matter where you choose to visit, though, there’s no doubt you’ll leave Europe feeling amazed. 

2. Con: You Might Find Yourself Too Far Outside Of Your Comfort Zone

There’s no doubt that traveling across the world takes a lot of courage, but unfortunately, some people find that their vacation to Europe took a form of courage they regret. Before you go through with any extravagant or expensive plans on how to spend your limited budget and vacation time, it’s worth questioning what your interests are — and what you’re comfortable doing. You don’t have to travel across the world to enjoy yourself, after all! There are plenty of exciting things closer to home to consider, too.

For example, if you’re in the United States, it couldn’t hurt to consider taking a road trip. If you’re a nature lover, there’s tons of national and state parks with unforgettable sights for you to explore. If you prefer the excitement that comes with big cities, it’s safe to say that the U.S. has no shortage of places to go. And it’s not just the United States that has fantastic destinations — whether you’re taking a driving tour along the coasts of Ireland or hiking along the rocky faces of the Andes mountains, finding something incredible at home is as simple as viewing familiar delights with a new perspective. 

3. Pro: Europe’s Public Transportation Is Incredible

Wherever you happen to find yourself in Europe, there’s no doubt that you’ll be impressed with their well-developed public transportation systems. Compared to countries like the United States, European countries generally have extremely sophisticated rail systems and bus lines that allow citizens to travel around the country easily — and they’ll make your time traveling in Europe much more convenient and simple, too!

It’s worth researching the country and region you’re visiting in advance, so that you’re familiar with their offerings and know how to use their services. It’s an added bonus if you’re familiar with the country’s language or know a decent lingua franca, since it’ll make responding to any unexpected challenges much easier. Aside from rail and bus lines, you can also consider travel by boat and plane wherever it’s available. Most cities are even bike-friendly!

4. Con: You’ll Find Yourself Far Away From Friends And Family

While everyone is different, most people enjoy being close to friends and family — and when you’re balancing work, keeping a home, and even raising children or caring for pets, finding enough time to spend with all of your friends and family can be extremely difficult. For this reason, it’s worth seriously considering if you’d prefer to travel abroad over taking the opportunity to spend what time you have with your dearest friends and relatives.

If you decide to visit relatives or even travel domestically, there’s a lot more opportunities to spend time with the people you cherish. Traveling with friends, for example, becomes a lot simpler when you don’t all need to secure passports, travel documents, and the expensive plane fares — you can have just as much fun taking a train or road trip to a gorgeous vacation spot within your home country. While there’s no doubt that visiting Europe is a chance to make some pretty incredible memories, spending time with your loved ones is something you won’t soon forget either. 

5. Pro: Visiting Europe Is A Chance To Challenge Your Language Skills And Grow

Aside from all of the usual frustrations that come with learning a new language, one of the biggest issues that emerging second-language speakers face is never actually having an opportunity to practice their skills! And worse yet, whenever they do have the opportunity, the difficulty, frustration, and even embarrassment can cause many new learners to switch back to their native language and give up.

When you’re visiting Europe, you generally won’t have the opportunity to switch back to your native language — and this can be an incredible thing. When you’re forced to listen to, read, and even speak your new language in every interaction and activity, your brain will want to adapt as soon as possible. This can cause an incredible period of growth. Many language learners who found themselves stagnating were quickly inspired by a trip to Europe. If you’re finding yourself in a similar situation, it’s definitely worth a try.

6. Con: Figuring Out Europe’s Travel Requirements Can Be Frustrating

If you’ve ever traveled internationally before, or been in an airline in the United States, you’re probably already familiar with how stressful travel requirements can be. This is especially true in recent years, since you’ll generally need more than just a passport to get where you want to go. Each country in Europe tends to have its own requirements and regulations for travelers. While visiting just one can already be difficult, if you’re planning a continental tour, you may just feel like giving up.

In particular, since COVID-19 became an international issue, many countries in Europe have established travel requirements that you’ll need to be aware of before attempting to visit. For example, in Spain, you’re only required to fill out a health form to visit the country. But if you’re planning to visit France or Italy, you’ll need to bring proof of vaccination or a valid COVID-19 test to enter the country (depending on their specific requirements). You should research well in advance to make sure the beginning of your vacation goes smoothly. 

7. Pro: You Won’t Regret Seeing One Of Europe’s Famous Festivals

One of the most compelling aspects of visiting Europe has always been its incredible culture. If you’re looking to enjoy Europe’s unique cultures fully, you can’t forget to see at least one of the incredible festivals that happen year-round. From Flamenco Fair to Oktoberfest, the world’s center of fun and festivities has no shortage of delights to offer — and you won’t regret experiencing them for yourself.

To start, you should definitely consider seeing Venice’s Carnival. The beautiful and elaborately painted masks and costumes are a highlight of this ancient festival, and best of all, you’ll get to enjoy seeing them across the course of 20 days! Maslenitsa is also a fantastic festival to visit if you love crepes — since the ban on dairy and meat is relaxed for Orthodox Christians during this week, the fantastic food is made to take full advantage of the opportunity!

is a trip to europe worth it

8. Con: Traveling Across The World Can Be Extremely Stressful

While there’s a lot of appeal to packing your bags and taking a journey somewhere new, it’s no surprise that the process can be just as stressful as it is fun — and in some cases, the stress can become overwhelming. To start, even when you plan your vacation out carefully, it’s not uncommon for unexpected expenses to put a huge financial burden on your back. And if that wasn’t enough, if any issues at home or in your own personal life come up, it’s hard to manage them when you’re across the world.

Ideally, if you plan to travel across the world to Europe or another distant continent, you should have an escape plan ready if any issues come up. While it’s impossible to account for every possible issue, it’s safe to say that you can address most of them by having a decent amount of savings and a few alternative modes of transportation and rest if things go awry. Understanding the language and local resources of wherever you’re visiting is also a bonus, since you’ll ultimately have a lot more tools in hand if and when any problems come up. 

9. Pro: The Authentic Food Will Blow Your Mind

Whether you’re drawn to a lovingly prepared carbonara or Greek salad, you’ll quickly find that authentic food is so widely beloved for a reason — it’s incredible. And best of all, trying food doesn’t have to be boring — it’s easy to make a must-try list or even a food tour that will let you fully experience all of the culinary delights a city or region has to offer. So whether you’re finding yourself in Scotland or Belgium, you should make sure to savor the delicious food just as much as the incredible scenery and awe-inspiring history. 

The local cuisine of wherever you choose to visit is essential to understanding everything about where you’re at, whether it indicates fishing practices passed down for generations or agricultural practices that allowed the country’s hardy people to survive in the worst of times. And you don’t just have to savor the tastes to find this enlightening — there’s plenty of resources in books and on the web that tell the incredible stories of how food and culture intertwined across history in countries around the world, and you won’t regret reading them. 

10. Con: You May Find Europe To Be Too Close To Home

Europe has plenty of unique sights and twists to offer on classic delights, but after the novelty wears off, you might find your vacation destination to be surprisingly close to home. After all, you’ll still be enjoying many of the same activities (like hiking or eating out at a restaurant) — just far away from home. It’s worth considering if you might prefer the larger budget that comes with a staycation.

You don’t just have to stay right at home, either. If you’re in the United States, rail lines like Amtrak offer a safe, affordable, and easy way to travel. And across the world, you can usually find private bus lines or train lines that offer reasonably priced travel services. Whether you’re drawn to the dazzling allure of a big city or would prefer to hike at a National Park, you won’t run short of things to enjoy domestically. 

10 Best Tips To Make Your Europe Vacation Better

1. plan your travel beforehand.

One of the worst disasters that can take away from your enjoyment of a vacation is having your travel plans fall through. Whether that special bus tour ends up being fully booked when you go to buy your ticket or your airline of choice ends up adding an extraordinarily expensive surcharge, disasters are common — and they can put a huge damper on even the best of moods. Whether you’re traveling to Rome or the Guiana Space Centre , you need to plan ahead.

For this reason, one of the best things you can do to ensure your vacation to Europe is amazing the whole way through is planning and booking your travel well in advance — and if possible, you should have emergency funds available in case you need to arrange an alternative, too. Aside from the security that having booked tickets and emergency funds will offer you, it also gives you a better idea of your itinerary and what you’ll be able to enjoy during your visit. 

2. Prepare For Jet Lag

If you’ve ever flown overseas, you’re probably familiar with the feeling of jet lag — defined as the exhausted feeling you get when abruptly changing time zones. The significant difference between what time it actually is and what your internal clock thinks it is can cause extreme fatigue, so it’s important to prepare for it if you intend to make the most of your vacation.

Luckily, there are a few hacks you can use to prevent jet lag and stay energized across your entire vacation. To start, you should make sure that you stay awake during the whole first day of your vacation and have an early bedtime. If you need a nap, it’s okay to take it, but you should ensure that it’s brief and that you enjoy caffeine later in the day.

Planning out the itinerary of your first day well can help you combat jet lag, too. Ideally, you should plan out a day that will keep you active without exhausting you. For example, you could visit laid-back venues like a cafe for lunch and even a park, while giving yourself time to recover between activities. But as long as you can stay awake during the first day and go to bed at a decent time, you won’t have much trouble at all getting your internal clock to adapt. 

3. Use Your Trip As An Opportunity To Learn About Yourself

It’s easy to feel like you’ve stagnated when you’re stuck in a routine, and unfortunately, adulthood is routine in almost every facet. From your job to the place that you live, it’s easy to feel stuck — and traveling is the perfect opportunity to change that. Many travelers find that they’re able to discover new sides of themselves when they take a journey across the world, and fortunately, you can too!

If you’ve decided that a trip to Europe seems right for you, making your trip one that nourishes your sense of self and allows you to explore your interests is as simple as planning a well thought-out itinerary. There are plenty of ways to enjoy yourself and learn new skills in Europe, from dance classes to festivals. With such a variety of activities available to choose from, finding something that suits you is simple — and you won’t regret giving it a try. 

barcelona is a beautiful city

4. Look For Souvenirs In Unexpected Places

You’ve probably seen them nearby, and you’ll probably find them abroad — it’s safe to say that tourist traps aren’t a particularly interesting part of any destination. Rather than taking the plunge and attempting to find something cool to bring home at a generic tourist shop or international brand, it’s worth checking out local markets and shops to find interesting trinkets.

There’s no shortage of places to look, either. To start, it’s worth checking to see if there are any local flea markets or vintage shops. Thrift stores are also worth diving into, since the donations will reflect what the locals buy and use! And if you’re still indecisive about where to go, Yelp is always a great resource for finding underrated local shops to explore. (In fact, it’s even excellent for finding hotels — we used it to find the best hotels in Old Quarter Hanoi !)

5. Focus On Making Memories

It’s easy to get caught up in a consumerist mindset, since the idea is pushed almost everywhere you look. Whether you’re watching TV or reading a magazine, it’s said time and time again: “Buy this!” When you’re exploring a spectacular place like Europe, though, it’s better to focus on an alternative action: “Do this”. And there’s no doubt that this wonderful continent offers plenty of things to do.

To start, it’s worth allowing yourself to wander. You should be spontaneous, and engage with eating local foods and enjoying all of the activities your destination has to offer to your heart’s desire. It’s worth making friends and socializing, too, especially if it gives you a chance to polish any second language skills. Buying products will give you a thrill for a few days, but if you focus on making memories, you’ll forge something incredible that lasts a lifetime. 

6. Consider Filling Out Your Very Own Bucket List

There’s more things to appreciate in Europe than you can possibly imagine, so if you’re planning to visit this spectacular continent, it doesn’t hurt to plan out beforehand what your most important things to see and do are. When you bring a bucket list on your trip, it’s less likely that you’ll have any regrets coming home — and if you do, it’s a perfect opportunity to make a brand new bucket list for your next vacation overseas.

And in a wonderful place like Europe, there’s no shortage of things to add to your bucket list. If you love history, it’s worth adding the most significant historical sites in the regions you’re visiting to your bucket list — and you might find museums and old businesses to be interesting, too. If you have a particular interest, like art or computing, it’s safe to say that you can find a few attractions to engage and fascinate yourself as long as you’re willing to look. 

Regardless of what you like, it’s seriously worth considering adding a few local dishes (or their diet-friendly / belief-friendly equivalents) to your bucket list!

7. Stay Open Minded To New Opportunities

Most people don’t get a ton of opportunities to visit Europe, so it’s not unusual to want the very best in every area. From the hotel rooms you decide to rent to the food you decide to eat, there’s more than enough luxury choices to consider — but those aren’t the only good options on the market! Actually, many locals offer similar services at a fraction of the price. And rather than staying in a sterile hotel room and eating professionally made food, you might find that the homeliness of a modest rental and homemade, authentic food makes your vacation significantly more memorable.

So on your next trip to Europe or somewhere else abroad, it’s worth keeping your mind open and considering all of the options available to you. You might find that the luxury options weren’t everything they claimed to be, and you might find that many of the local options offer a level of authenticity you just can’t find anywhere else. Yelp is a great place to look for hidden gems, but if you happen to know anyone locally, it’s also worth asking around for recommendations!

8. Take Your Time And Enjoy Things Fully

One of the biggest issues that people commonly run into when visiting Europe is that they try to fit way too many trips into a very short vacation. Unfortunately, seeing Berlin, London, Rome, and Paris within the span of a week isn’t realistic, and even if it were, you would have little to no time to enjoy every spot — actually, a significant portion of your time would be wasted on travel.

If you’re planning to visit Europe, you should come up with a trip itinerary that minimizes travel and maximizes experience. You won’t be missing out if you’re only able to visit Rome on your first trip — actually, focusing on Rome for your first trip will allow you to have an invigorating trip to London on your second vacation, and you won’t have any issues with diving deep into everything Berlin has to offer on your third, either!

While it’s okay to visit a few cities on your vacation, you should plan beforehand to ensure that you’re spending at least two to three days in each city. This will allow you to at least superficially enjoy most of the city’s offerings and the culture of where you’re visiting — but the more time you’re able to envelop yourself in a city’s unique culture, the better. There’s no doubt that when you plan your vacation correctly, many of Europe’s most extraordinary cities could keep you entertained for weeks. 

9. Consider Riding Trains And Buses

There’s a lot of reasons that riding planes is compelling: they’re fast, and when you’re traveling long distances, they can be extremely convenient, too. Unfortunately, there are some drawbacks to riding planes, too. Aside from how expensive the tickets can be, the process of going through an airport is exhausting, and you don’t have much of an opportunity to enjoy the scenery during your airplane ride.

In certain cases, you might even find that going on a train or bus is significantly faster than riding on a plane! While the ticket might say that the flight takes one hour, when you factor in the time it takes to board and unboard the plane, you might find that going on a bus or train is both faster and cheaper. Aside from that, going on a bus or train is extremely eco-friendly, and it’s just as safe and pleasant as riding on a plane. 

10. Consider Taking A Road Trip

It isn’t just buses and trains that have an incredible level of appeal to offer — going on a road trip across Europe can be amazing, too, and starting is as easy as renting a car. Unlike other forms of transportation, when you rent a car, you won’t be limited to certain times or destinations. You’ll have full freedom to see what you want, when you want.

There’s plenty of great companies to rent cars from, too, from Europcar to Avis. You can compare prices, features, models, and mileage to find the best fit for your trip, and once you’ve decided, going on your road trip is as easy as simply paying the rental fee. You can even have your rental car delivered at an airport or train station, as long as you’re willing to pay additional fees!

Is A Trip To Europe Worth It?

There’s a lot of factors that go into determining whether or not a vacation is worth it. Unfortunately, traveling across the world can be extremely expensive, so your vacation will have to give you a lot of joy to be worth it. In a wonderful place like Europe, though, it isn’t hard to make that happen. Before spending any money, you should try to plan in advance and research your options thoroughly to make sure that your vacation is the best fit for you. 

And if you’re not sure, it’s worth noting that there are plenty of other options on other continents — and even near home — that can provide the same level of fun for a fraction of the price. To determine if a trip to Europe is worth it, you should look in your heart to see what you really value. With the right amount of self-reflection and research, the answer will become clear in no time. (If you’re looking for a way to make your trip to Europe extra-special, you should consider purchasing a Europe travel package to make it 10x more convenient!)

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is a 5 day trip to europe worth it

Danielle Lacoste

Is a Long Weekend Trip to Europe Worth it? (Including Tips!)

is a 5 day trip to europe worth it

Is a long weekend trip to Europe worth it?  In short (and in my opinion), YES!  

If you check out my blog post, 3 Days in Madrid: Travel Guide , you’ll see that recently, Rick and I took a long weekend trip to Madrid.  The idea of taking a long weekend trip to Europe had been living rent-free in my mind for awhile, but when I first brought it up to Rick a few months back, he thought I was crazy.  Why would we put ourselves through two nine-hour flights and a big time change for only a few days? Well, here is my reasoning: 

I LOVE traveling.  If I go more than a few months without a trip, I get restless.  I crave that adventure.  However, with a full-time, nine-to-five job, it can be hard to plan vacations numerous times a year without taking too much time off.  So for me, it is essential to plan each and every one of my days off to a tee!

Europe is my love language.  It’s my favorite place to travel to, and Rick and I have tried to go there once a year for the past few years to scratch that itch.  However, I wanted to see if we could go more often than that.  So, with Mardi Gras approaching and therefore having 2 days off of work for the festivities, I thought, why not test it out?  If not now, when?  

So I finally convinced Rick, we did it, it was completely manageable, and I’m now here to share my tips and what I learned with y’all!  

is a 5 day trip to europe worth it

TIP #1: Go somewhere that doesn’t have too many tourist sites that you feel obligated to go to, or go somewhere you’ve been before.  

When we were deciding to do a long weekend in Europe, the first question was where?  Since we were only going to be there for a few days, we wanted to either (1) go somewhere we had gone previously (so we would have already visited all the main tourist sites and wouldn’t feel the need to tour them again) or (2) go somewhere that wasn’t going to have an overwhelming amount of sites to see or museums to visit.  For example, I didn’t want to go somewhere I hadn’t been to in the past, like Rome, where there are so, so many things I’d feel like I HAD to see. We also wanted to stay closer to the western side of Europe because the flights were more likely to be shorter and the time change would be a bit less.  

We ended up choosing Madrid for those reasons.  While Rick and I have been to other parts of Spain together before, neither of us had ever been to Madrid.  Madrid is closer to the western side of Europe, our flight only had one lay-over, and there wasn’t an overwhelming amount of sites we felt obligated to visit.  Also, we have both been focusing on learning Spanish lately, so we thought it’d be good to practice our new language skills, as well! 

TIP #2: Take an overnight flight.  

Like I said, we had off Monday and Tuesday for Mardi Gras.  We decided to take off Friday, as well, and were able to find a late night flight on Thursday after work, which meant we would arrive in Madrid Friday afternoon.  Our flight home was on Tuesday afternoon, so all in all, we had approximately 4 days in Madrid.  

If you want to do a long weekend in Europe, my number one tip is to take an overnight flight!  I find that an overnight flight leaves so much less room for jet-lag.   Yes, you’ll likely still be tired, but flying overnight kind of forces you to sleep on the plane, and you wake up at a time that would be morning in the US.  Plus, as an added bonus, an overnight flight means one less day that you have to take off of work.  For example, instead of flying out Thursday during the day, pick a Thursday evening or night flight.  This way, you still arrive in Europe the next day, but you don’t have to take that extra day off. 

TIP #3: Utilize your off holidays! 

I realize this may not apply to everyone, but if you are able, utilize the holidays off that you are given!  If you have a Monday off for Memorial Day, leave the Thursday night before, and return that Monday or Tuesday.  That way, you’re only taking one or two days off, but you’re essentially getting 3-4 days for your trip.  Also, just as a side note, I find that the jet-lag isn’t nearly as bad on the way back to the US from Europe, so, referencing my Memorial Day example, it’s definitely manageable to arrive back home Monday and go to work on Tuesday.  Will you be a little tired?  Of course!  But, I like to remind myself that I won’t remember how tired I was for a few days.  Instead, I’ll remember the memories I made and the adventures I had.  

TIP #4: Stay in centrally located accommodations.

When you travel abroad, especially to major cities, it can be extremely time consuming to commute.  In my opinion, while staying in the city center, or the “old” town, may be more expensive, it is worth it when it comes to time–especially when only traveling over a long weekend.  I recommend staying in a central location that is close to the majority of the sites you plan to visit! 

TIP #5:  Write a checklist of everything you’d like to do before arriving at your destination.  

Before you arrive in your city of choice, make a list of all of the attractions you’d like to see, restaurants you’d like to go to, and things you’d like to do.  I don’t like to go into a trip with a set schedule, but I do like to go in with a guide.  With just a few days in the city, it can be a whirlwind, and if you bring a guide, you can divide the things you’d like to do between the days you’ll be there and make sure you don’t miss out on anything critical. 

TIP #6:  Book tickets in advance. 

If you are planning on visiting a museum, a castle, or another tourist attraction, check the website and buy tickets in advance if you are able!  Many sites (like the Prado Museum and the Royal Palace of Madrid) have extremely long lines that can take hours if you try to purchase tickets in person.  However, their websites allow visitors to purchase tickets online, which, in turn, allows visitors to bypass the long lines.  In my opinion, buying tickets ahead of time is really critical if you only have a few days in a city! 

is a 5 day trip to europe worth it

Like I said, we arrived in Madrid on Friday afternoon and left Madrid on Tuesday afternoon.  While we were in Madrid, we decided that the trip would have been worth it even if we had left Madrid on Monday instead.  Before our trip, Rick was a skeptic, but after being in Madrid for only 24 hours, Rick conceded and said he was so glad we made the trip!  

So there are my tips for traveling to Europe for a long weekend!  I realize that this may not appeal to everyone, but in my opinion, it was so worth it, and I hope this helps inspire one of you to take that weekend trip you’re dreaming of!

XX, Danielle

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is a 5 day trip to europe worth it

The 17 Best Countries to Visit in Europe

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It’s no secret Europe is an appealing continent for country-hopping. Once you’re there, cycle-friendly streets, extensive train systems, and relatively cheap inter-country flights make it highly accessible. Scenery wise, Europe has everything from snowy mountains, lush forests, and glittering beaches to ultra-modern cities, medieval villages, and Neolithic structures. Wherever you go, you can just as easily spend your time immersed in local history, art, and architecture as you can lingering over a four-hour meal, wandering cobblestone streets, or dancing the night (or day) away.

Perhaps the biggest challenge in planning a trip to Europe is deciding where to go. To make it a little easier, we’ve put together a guide to our favorite places. The first nine are the obvious contenders; there’s a reason why these countries are frequently talked about—they’re easily reachable, they’re well-adjusted to tourists, and they feature a wide range of activities, experiences, and landscapes. The remaining eight countries represent equally great options for something similar but slightly more off the beaten path (for non-European tourists, at least). Whichever you choose, you'll find something for every type of traveler.

United Kingdom

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With four separate countries—England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland— the U.K . offers a taste of European diversity. From mountains, lakes, and valleys (like the Mourne Mountains , Snowdonia National Park , and the Scottish Highlands ) to rocky coastlines, rolling hills, and pebble-strewn beaches (like Seven Sisters , the Lake District , and the Pembrokeshire Coast ), it’s a hiker’s paradise. Beyond its natural wonders, the U.K. also boasts lots of lively, inclusive cities packed with bustling literary and expat scenes, LGBTQIA+ history, some of Europe’s best comedy, music, and drag festivals, and a culture centered around food and drink.

Whether you’re exploring some of the world’s best cocktail bars or restaurants in Barcelona and Madrid , lounging in the turquoise waters of the Costa Brava or Tenerife , browsing the art of Bilbao , or marveling at the medieval architecture of Seville or Toledo, one thing unites all of Spain —its warm, welcoming people. Known for closing shops to eat lunch with loved ones and later chatting for hours over pintxos and wine at dinner, Spaniards make time to appreciate life and its simple pleasures, and that energy is delightfully contagious. Solo travelers especially will never feel alone here.

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Contrary to Hollywood portrayals, France is more than high-end fashion, delicious pastries, and top-quality wine—though of course those are prevalent. While you can easily live out your ritzy cinematic montage via shopping on the Champs-Élysées , sunbathing on wind-swept piers in the French Riviera , or touring chateaux in wine country, the affordable ways of experiencing French culture are what make it special. Most museums offer free or discounted hours, cabarets often have cheaper performance nights, some of the best meals come from Paris street vendors or Aix-en-Provence markets, and five euro grocery store wine is better than most table wines.

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Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, with a partner, or with family, Italy has something for everyone. You can have a city break filled with art and shopping in Milan or Florence or immerse yourself in harrowing history in Pompeii . You can relax on white sand beaches in Sardinia or the Amalfi Coast . You can have an action-packed skiing trip or hiking trip. Whatever you choose to do, there is one thing you can and should explore everywhere, at every opportunity: the country's food and wine scene. Local cooking classes from the village nonna are especially fun.

Although Iceland is slightly harder to reach and could get overcrowded at popular spots like The Blue Lagoon , once you’re here, any hassle is forgotten. There are so many jaw-dropping waterfalls , glaciers , mountains , caves , and hot springs everywhere you look that you’ll forget you’re still on Earth. If you road trip (or travel by horse ) around the Ring Road that circles Iceland’s perimeter, you can also branch off to lesser travelled lava rock fields, fjords, and potential Northern Lights viewing spots. For an extra dose of Icelandic magic scenery, keep an eye out for elf walks .

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An excellent choice for nature lovers, history buffs, and partiers alike is Greece . Islands like Santorini , Crete , and Mykonos attract the most visitors and press, but there are literally hundreds of inhabited islands made for hiking, snorkeling, and dancing in the sun. If you prefer city life on the mainland, Athens is the heart of Ancient Greek history with modern levels of fine-dining and nightlife, and Thessaloniki is rich in Byzantine art and international festivals. To combine history and art all in one experience, visit during the brief public opening times of Ancient Greek theaters to catch a play. 

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With long, dark winter nights and long, bright summer days, Sweden is prime territory for Northern Lights viewing and Midsummer celebrations, but its friendly locals, buzzy student population, and inviting bakeries make it entertaining year-round. Stockholm is a great gateway city, as it has everything you’d want from an urban hub—museums, restaurants, nightclubs, and a distinct mix of architectural styles—plus easy access to day trips , farther afield Swedish cities, and the equally appealing neighboring countries of Norway and Finland. Always make time to enjoy fika , a daily social hour with friends over coffee and pastries like kanelbullar (Swedish cinnamon buns).

Known for its breweries , meat-heavy meals, exclusive nightclubs and festivals , and eclectic art scene, Germany is often seen as a hipster’s paradise or the perfect backdrop to a rowdy night out. While it is both of those things—especially Cologne with its university life and Berlin with its extensive street food, street art, and prevalence of eerie abandoned spaces—it’s also a country with impressive architecture, meandering scenic drives , an appreciation for literature , kid-friendly attractions, some of the best Christmas markets in Europe, and a strong commitment to remembering its darker history . 

The Netherlands

Most people associate the Netherlands with three Ws: windmills, waterways, and weed. While it’s difficult to go anywhere without encountering at least one of those—and you should wander canals and frolic in tulip-covered fields—it’s home to more than just natural and “herbal” beauty. The first country to legalize same-sex marriage and adoption, the Netherlands is a welcoming place for LGBTQIA+ visitors and hosts queer-celebratory festivals, performances, and events throughout the year. It’s also edam gouda destination for cheese aficionados, with dedicated cheese museums in Amsterdam and traditional medieval cheese markets easily accessible from the capital city.

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If dramatic scenery and its culturally-ingrained love of alcohol attract you to the U.K., Ireland has both—plus even greener landscapes and even kinder locals. You’ll pay steeply in Dublin, especially for attractions like the Guinness Storehouse , but its unique architecture , literary heritage, and theater scene are worth the coin. The best way to see the country, though, is to drive along the western coastline via the Wild Atlantic Way . Accommodation ranges from homestays to full-on castles , and you can traipse woodland waterfalls , befriend Connemara horses, hike the Cliffs of Moher , and hear live music in Galway along the way.

Take everything great about Spain while subtracting the heftier crowds and costs, and you'll get Portugal . In addition to wine and sangria, you can sip on local drinks like port, ginjinha (sour cherry liquor), and vinho verde (green wine) for a few euros a glass, plus intercity train travel and rideshare apps are often cheaper than the bus. Approachability is a big plus, but the highlights are river tours around Porto and the Douro Valley , sampling pastel de nata (egg custard tarts) and pão de deus (coconut bread) in Lisbon , exploring fairytale castles of Sintra , and hopping beaches and coves along the Algarve .

Switzerland

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As with France, people often associate Switzerland with elaborate indulgences, like fancy ski resorts , the wealthy city of Geneva , and internationally acclaimed dining . While no trip to Switzerland would be complete without a surplus of fondue and chocolate, some of the best experiences in the country are found outside its cities. Hiking and skiing around its lakes , mountains, and parks will give you the chance to get up close and personal with its natural charm, but you don’t even have to be an active traveler to partake: there are also many ways to catch the views by train .

This central European country shares more than just a border with Italy: it also shares a passion for local wines, truffle-laden pastas, mountaintop skiing, and lakeside castles and hiking—and all at a fraction of the price. Capital city, vegetarian-friendly Ljubljana, is completely walkable, with lots of meandering canals and small farmers’ and flea markets even on the coldest of days. If you head to Slovenia’s most popular lake—Lake Bled—during the off season, you can avoid touristy beach parties and instead enjoy a virtually uninterrupted view of crisp, turquoise water shimmering beneath the mountains.

Faroe Islands

It’s hard to find unspoiled nature, but the Faroe Islands get pretty close. Located between Iceland and Norway, this remote sovereign nation offers the same rugged, otherworldly landscapes as its neighbors, but with significantly less foot, car, and boat traffic. If you’re more of an indoor cat, you may want to give this trip a skip, but otherwise suit up with layers and waterproof gear and get ready to fall in love with puffins. Stay with a local if you can—it’s more traditional, more affordable, and you’ll learn more about respecting the ecosystems around you.

Much like Greece, Croatia can impress steadfast city-breakers as much as die-hard nature-chasers. From summer festivals in Split and Dubrovnik to dedicated booze-cruise boats that take you to islands like Hvar and Brač, it has plenty of opportunities to indulge hedonistic tendencies. Equally prominent, though, are chances to rejuvenate on more remote islands , plan a leisurely food crawl , or hike through forest, mountains, and waterfalls at national parks like Krka or Plitvice Lakes .

Czech Republic

If Germany’s castles, scenic road trips, and literary appreciation are as appealing as its vast quantities of alcohol, the Czech Republic offers all of the above but with smaller crowds and, especially outside its capital, significantly lower costs. With its Franz Kafka museum, striking Jewish quarter, and black light theater performances as well as its thriving restaurant , nightlife , and absinthe scenes, Prague is definitely worth a visit, but make sure to take advantage of the extensive domestic train system to take day trips or spend time elsewhere to see some of its best architecture, World War II history, and wine and beer producers.

If you can’t decide whether to go to France, Germany, or the Netherlands, Belgium has elements of all three. It has the excellent chocolate of France, the impressive range of architecture like Germany, and the walkable, canal-filled cities like the Netherlands. Plus, the Belgians are the inventor of frites . The bilingual capital of Brussels is an ideal gateway to other cities and neighboring countries, and with its diplomatic ties, it also offers a great cultural melting pot. Eat at least one meal in Matongé, its African quarter, before traveling out to other cities like Antwerp or Bruges .

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The 5 Days and 5 Cities European Tour

The 5 Days and 5 Cities European Tour

Traveling Europe has never been easier, with the European Union (EU) allowing adventurers to cross borders with ease. Home to some of the planet’s most astounding cultures and civilizations, Europe’s cities present a plethora of opportunities for visitors, from Paris’ Eiffel Tower to the British Museum in London.

Enjoy a European Experience in Just a Few Days

Covering just 4,000,000 square miles, Europe is slightly bigger than Australia, making it the world’s second-smallest continent. Although small in size, it more than makes up for its lack of land coverage with its rich culture, attractions and population. Home to over 740 million people, Europe has made a significant impact on the world. The Industrial Revolution and the Renaissance are just two examples of the many historical events that have taken place on European soil and shaped the future of the world as we know it.

European Tour

Get a glimpse into Europe’s fascinating past and discover all it has to offer on a five-day tour of five must-visit cities. Below, we highlight some of the most sought-after European travel destinations, of which you can discover in five days with a well-executed travel plan:

1. Brussels, Belgium – History enthusiasts will be in their element exploring Brussels, where the nightlife scene is pumping throughout the week and the the locals will treat you like locals. Kids and adults alike will have a blast inspecting miniature European attractions at Mini-Europe. Statues are sprinkles around the city, such as the 17th-century Mannekin Pis – a bronze statue of a young boy peeing! Spend an afternoon admiring the Art Nouveau architecture at The Horta Museum , The Autrique House and The Max Hallet House , before winding down with some Belgian beer inside a cozy pub. What else makes Brussels special? Aside from being an art nouveau playground, the city streets conceal cute little jazz clubs and quirky landscaped parks.

2. Geneva, Switzerland – Enclosed by the Jura mountains and the snow-capped Alps mountain range, the city of Geneva is steeped in local tradition. Enjoy local entertainment in the form of live music from yodellers and country music bands. Uniquely formed amidst Lake Thun and Lake Brienz’ vibrant emerald waters, Geneva offers hiking opportunities for anyone who is keen to reach one of the Bernese Alps major summits, which is the Jungfrau peeking above the clouds at 4,158 meters.

3. Paris, France – One of the most romantic cities on the planet, Paris is home to magnificent landmarks like the Eiffel Tower. And the Louvre Art Museum . To make the most of a day spent in this European city, consider arranging a private tour. You can witness a lot in a short space of time if you plan wisely. Recommended points of interest worth including in your Paris itinerary include Disneyland Paris , Notre-Dame de Paris and Tuileries Garden. Some other sights that lure in millions of travelers every year are the Place de la Concorde and Grand Palais.

European Tour

5. Barcelona, Spain – Since flights from London to Barcelona are cheap and quick (the travel time is usually no longer than four hours,) the idea of visiting this charming city in Spain will surely be tempting. The urban landscape is a mish-mash of striking Medieval buildings, cobblestoned markets and sculptural masterpieces. You will find a Gaudi-designed church in Barcelona (the Sagrada Familia) and the seaside just a short drive away in a neighborhood called La Barceloneta

Planning in Advance of Your European Tour

Do something today that your future self will thank you for, such as by planning your trip around Europe in advance! The early bird catches the worm and this will certainly be the case if you know how to converse with the locals. Earning the respect of local residents in the cities you choose to visit could get you on a friendly basis, so read a language phrase book or research languages online to grasp the basics.

Installing an application on your phone, such as, will aid you in getting the most out of your schedule. You might also consider visiting the tourism websites for the cities you intend on exploring.Pack clothing that is appropriate for the weather, get your currencies exchanged and arranged, oh, and don’t forget your passport.

For more help with planning a trip or traveling as an entrepreneur, view Expedia’s Squareship content.

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Which City To Visit On A 5-Day Trip To Europe

Published: November 14, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Beitris Bedard

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Introduction

Europe is a continent bursting with rich history, breathtaking architecture, vibrant cultures, and diverse landscapes. Planning a 5-day trip to Europe can be an exhilarating experience, but choosing the right city to visit can be a daunting task. Each city offers its own unique charm and attractions, making it crucial to consider several factors before making a decision.

When planning your trip, it is essential to consider your personal interests, budget, travel preferences, and the time of year. Whether you’re a history buff, a food lover, an art enthusiast, or simply seeking a mix of relaxation and adventure, Europe has a city to fulfill your desires.

In this article, we will explore five popular European cities, each offering a distinct experience. From the romantic charm of Paris to the ancient wonders of Rome, the vibrant streets of Barcelona, the picturesque canals of Amsterdam, and the fairy-tale beauty of Prague, each city has its own allure and adventure waiting to be discovered.

Join us as we dive into the heart of Europe and uncover which city will make your 5-day trip an unforgettable journey.

Factors to Consider Before Choosing a City

Before making a decision on which city to visit for your 5-day trip to Europe, it is important to consider several factors. These factors will help ensure that you choose a city that aligns with your interests, preferences, and budget. Here are some key factors to consider:

  • Interests and Activities: Think about what you enjoy doing the most during your travels. Are you a history enthusiast who loves exploring ancient ruins and museums? Or are you more interested in vibrant nightlife and culinary experiences? Consider the city’s attractions and activities available to match your interests.
  • Travel Budget: Each city in Europe has its own cost of living and tourism expenses. Consider your budget and research the average costs for accommodation, dining, transportation, and attractions in each city. This will help you plan and choose a city that fits your financial capabilities.
  • Accessibility: Take into account the ease of travel to your chosen city. Check for direct flight options or convenient train connections. Choosing a city with good accessibility will save you time and make your journey more efficient.
  • Time of Year: Different cities in Europe have unique charms in different seasons. Consider the weather conditions and events happening during your travel dates. Are you looking for a summer beach getaway or a winter wonderland? Keep in mind the seasonality of your chosen city.
  • Language and Culture: Take into consideration the language spoken in the city and the cultural experience it offers. If you are interested in immersing yourself in a new language or culture, choose a city that caters to your preferences.
  • Safety: Safety is an important factor to consider while traveling. Research the safety ratings and overall security situation in the cities you are considering. Choose a city that provides a sense of security and comfort for your trip.

By carefully considering these factors, you can choose a city that matches your interests, preferences, and budget. It will ensure that you have a fulfilling and unforgettable 5-day trip to Europe.

City 1: Paris

Welcome to the enchanting City of Light, Paris! With its iconic landmarks, world-class cuisine, and romantic ambiance, Paris offers a truly magical experience. In just 5 days, you can immerse yourself in the city’s rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture.

No visit to Paris would be complete without a visit to the Eiffel Tower. Take the elevator to the top and enjoy breathtaking views of the city. Stroll along the Champs-Élysées, explore the charming neighborhoods of Montmartre and Le Marais, and indulge in delectable pastries at local patisseries.

Art enthusiasts will be in awe at the Louvre Museum, home to the famous Mona Lisa. Discover other artistic gems at the Musée d’Orsay and the Centre Pompidou. Take a leisurely boat ride along the Seine River and admire the stunning architecture, such as Notre-Dame Cathedral and the exquisite bridges.

Paris is also a haven for food lovers. Sample authentic French cuisine at cozy bistros and bustling markets. Don’t miss out on the chance to savor mouthwatering pastries, heavenly macarons, and fine wines. Indulge in a romantic dinner cruise on the Seine or dine at a Michelin-starred restaurant for an unforgettable gastronomic experience.

For a touch of history, visit the Palace of Versailles, located just outside the city. Marvel at the opulent palace, vast gardens, and the famous Hall of Mirrors.

When it comes to shopping, Paris is a fashion capital. Explore the designer boutiques on Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré and the trendy shops in Le Marais. Browse through vintage finds at the flea market, Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen.

Paris comes alive in the evening, offering a vibrant nightlife scene. Catch a cabaret show at Moulin Rouge, soak in the atmosphere at the lively Latin Quarter, or enjoy a classical concert at the stunning Opéra Garnier.

With its timeless beauty and romantic charm, Paris is a city that will captivate your heart. A 5-day trip is just enough to scratch the surface of all that this magnificent city has to offer, leaving you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.

City 2: Rome

Welcome to the Eternal City, Rome! With its ancient ruins, magnificent architecture, and mouthwatering cuisine, Rome offers a captivating blend of history and modernity. In 5 days, you can immerse yourself in the rich culture and experience the wonders that Rome has to offer.

A visit to Rome wouldn’t be complete without exploring the iconic Colosseum. Step back in time as you wander through this ancient amphitheater, imagining the gladiators’ battles and the cheers of the crowd. Be sure to visit the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, where you can see the ruins of ancient temples and structures.

The Vatican City, an independent city-state within Rome, is a must-visit. Marvel at the breathtaking beauty of St. Peter’s Basilica and admire the intricate artwork of the Sistine Chapel, painted by Michelangelo. Take a stroll through the Vatican Museums, home to a vast collection of art and historical treasures.

Delve into the heart of Rome’s culture by wandering through its charming neighborhoods. Explore the narrow streets of Trastevere, filled with lively cafes and authentic trattorias. Visit the Spanish Steps, toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain, and make a wish for a return visit.

Indulge in the delectable flavors of Italian cuisine in Rome. From mouthwatering pasta dishes like carbonara and cacio e pepe to pizzas cooked in traditional wood-fired ovens, the culinary offerings in Rome will leave you craving more. Don’t forget to savor gelato from one of the city’s renowned gelaterias.

Rome is a city that seamlessly blends history with modern life. Take leisurely walks along the Tiber River, cross the picturesque bridges, and soak in the atmosphere of the city. Explore the vibrant markets, such as Campo de’ Fiori, where you can find fresh produce, local delicacies, and artisanal crafts.

For art enthusiasts, a visit to the Galleria Borghese is a must. Admire the exquisite sculptures, paintings, and archaeological treasures housed in this stunning museum. The MAXXI National Museum of 21st Century Arts is also worth a visit for its contemporary art exhibits.

Rome’s nightlife is vibrant and varied. Enjoy an evening stroll in the lively Trastevere district, dine at cozy trattorias, and sip on a refreshing Aperol spritz at a trendy bar. For an atmospheric experience, catch an open-air opera performance or a concert in one of the city’s historic venues.

Rome is a city that will transport you back in time while captivating you with its modern charm. In just 5 days, you can explore its ancient ruins, indulge in delicious cuisine, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this extraordinary city.

City 3: Barcelona

Welcome to the vibrant city of Barcelona! Known for its stunning architecture, lively atmosphere, and beautiful Mediterranean beaches, Barcelona offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modernity. In 5 days, you can dive into the colorful streets of this dynamic city and discover its endless charms.

Barcelona is home to the architectural wonders of Antoni Gaudí, including the iconic Sagrada Família, Park Güell, and Casa Batlló. Marvel at the intricate details and innovative designs that make these landmarks truly extraordinary. Take a stroll along the famous boulevard of La Rambla, lined with street performers, cafes, and bustling market stalls.

Immerse yourself in the rich Catalan culture by exploring the charming neighborhoods like the Gothic Quarter. Get lost in its narrow streets, stumble upon hidden squares, and soak in the medieval ambiance. Visit the Barcelona Cathedral and discover the history and architectural beauty within its walls.

The Mediterranean Sea is a defining feature of Barcelona, and its beaches are perfect for relaxation and leisure. Spend a day soaking up the sun at Barceloneta Beach, take a refreshing swim in the azure waters, or enjoy water sports activities. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in delicious paella and seafood at beachfront restaurants.

Art enthusiasts will find a haven in Barcelona’s vibrant art scene. Visit the Picasso Museum to admire the works of the legendary artist or explore the contemporary art exhibits at the Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art (MACBA) and the Fundació Joan Miró.

Tapas and Catalan cuisine are a delight for food lovers. From patatas bravas to fresh seafood, Barcelona offers an array of culinary delights. Explore the lively markets, such as Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria, and sample local delicacies. Wash it down with a glass of refreshing sangria or a traditional vermouth.

Barcelona is also a city of festivals and celebrations. If you’re lucky enough to visit during the festive season, you can experience the vibrant colors and energetic atmosphere of events like La Mercè, where the streets come alive with fireworks, music, and traditional Catalan customs.

As the sun sets, Barcelona’s nightlife lights up. Explore the bustling bar scene in El Raval, dance the night away at the beach clubs, or enjoy live music performances in the trendy neighborhood of El Born. The city offers an eclectic mix of bars, clubs, and live music venues to suit all tastes.

Barcelona is a city that embraces diversity and creativity, making it a captivating destination for travelers. In just 5 days, you can explore its architectural wonders, indulge in delicious cuisine, relax on beautiful beaches, and immerse yourself in its vibrant culture.

City 4: Amsterdam

Welcome to the charming city of Amsterdam! With its picturesque canals, historic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene, Amsterdam offers a unique and enchanting experience. In just 5 days, you can explore the city’s iconic sights, immerse yourself in its rich history, and embrace its laid-back atmosphere.

Amsterdam is known for its beautiful canals, and a boat ride along the historic canal ring is a must-do. Admire the stunning architecture and picturesque houses that line the waterways, and learn about the city’s history as you glide through this UNESCO World Heritage site.

No visit to Amsterdam would be complete without a visit to the world-renowned Van Gogh Museum. Immerse yourself in the works of this celebrated artist and gain a deeper understanding of his life and artistic journey. The Rijksmuseum is also a must-visit, housing an impressive collection of Dutch art, including works by Rembrandt and Vermeer.

Explore the charming neighborhoods of Amsterdam, such as the Jordaan and De Pijp. Wander through the narrow streets, admire the traditional Dutch houses, and discover cozy cafes, trendy boutiques, and local markets. Don’t miss the chance to take a stroll in the beautiful Vondelpark, Amsterdam’s largest park, and enjoy a picnic or leisurely bike ride.

Amsterdam is known for its vibrant and diverse cultural scene. Visit the Anne Frank House and learn about the life and legacy of Anne Frank, whose diary has touched people around the world. Explore the Foam Photography Museum and the Stedelijk Museum, which showcases contemporary art. Catch a performance at the renowned Concertgebouw or visit one of the city’s many theaters.

Taste the flavors of Dutch cuisine during your stay in Amsterdam. Indulge in delicious cheese at the Cheese Museum or sample traditional herring from one of the street food stalls. Don’t forget to try some stroopwafels (syrup waffles) and bitterballen (deep-fried meatballs) at a local cafe.

Amsterdam’s nightlife is vibrant and diverse, catering to all tastes. From cozy brown cafés where you can enjoy a beer and chat with locals, to trendy cocktail bars and clubs where you can dance the night away, Amsterdam has it all. The famous Red Light District also offers a unique experience, with its bustling streets and distinctive atmosphere.

Amsterdam’s bike-friendly streets make it easy to explore the city on two wheels. Rent a bicycle and pedal along the canals, visit the floating flower market, or venture outside the city to explore the beautiful Dutch countryside and its iconic windmills.

Amsterdam is a city that effortlessly combines history, art, beauty, and a relaxed vibe. In just 5 days, you can discover its enchanting canals, immerse yourself in its cultural treasures, and experience the unique atmosphere that sets Amsterdam apart from any other city.

City 5: Prague

Welcome to the magical city of Prague! With its fairytale-like architecture, rich history, and charming old-world atmosphere, Prague is a true gem of Europe. In just 5 days, you can explore its cobblestone streets, visit its breathtaking castles, and immerse yourself in its vibrant culture.

Prague’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a treasure trove of architectural wonders. Explore the Prague Castle, the largest ancient castle complex in the world, and marvel at the stunning St. Vitus Cathedral. Wander through the narrow streets of the Old Town, where you can admire the astronomical clock, stroll across Charles Bridge, and soak in the medieval ambiance.

The Charles Bridge offers magnificent views of the Vltava River and the city’s skyline. Take a leisurely walk across the bridge and discover the striking statues that line the way. Be sure to visit the lesser-known Prague Castle district, where you can find hidden gems and enjoy panoramic views of the city.

Prague is known for its vibrant arts and culture scene. Explore the collections of the National Gallery, which houses a vast array of Czech and European art. Visit the Kafka Museum to learn about the life and works of the famous writer Franz Kafka. Don’t miss the chance to attend a classical concert in one of Prague’s stunning concert halls or churches.

Indulge in the flavors of Czech cuisine during your visit. Try traditional dishes like goulash, svíčková, and trdelník, a delicious pastry. Sample some of the world-famous Czech beer at local pubs and beer halls, and experience the lively atmosphere of the city’s beer gardens.

Prague’s Jewish Quarter, known as Josefov, is a must-visit to explore the city’s Jewish history and culture. Discover the Jewish Museum, which includes several synagogues and the hauntingly beautiful Old Jewish Cemetery. Learn about the struggles and achievements of the Jewish community in Prague throughout history.

For a unique experience, visit the Prague Astronomical Clock as it strikes the hour. Marvel at the figures in motion and the intricate details of this medieval masterpiece. Climb the Old Town Hall tower for panoramic views of the city.

Prague’s nightlife offers something for everyone. From trendy cocktail bars to underground pubs and live music venues, you can enjoy a vibrant and diverse scene. Explore the lively bars in the neighborhood of Žižkov or head to the riverside clubs and bars for a memorable night out.

Prague’s beauty is not limited to the city center. Take a boat ride on the Vltava River, visit the picturesque neighborhood of Malá Strana, or explore the charming parks and gardens, such as the Letná Park and the Kinsky Garden.

Prague is a city that will transport you back in time, with its medieval charm and captivating atmosphere. In just 5 days, you can experience the rich history, stunning architecture, and warm hospitality that make Prague a must-visit destination in Europe.

Choosing the right city for your 5-day trip to Europe can be a thrilling yet challenging task. Each city offers its own unique charm, attractions, and experiences, making it important to consider various factors before making a decision.

Paris, with its romantic ambiance, iconic landmarks, and exquisite cuisine, offers a blend of history, art, and culture that captivates visitors. Rome, the eternal city, enchants with its ancient ruins, magnificent architecture, and delectable cuisine, immersing travelers in the rich heritage of the Roman Empire.

Barcelona, a vibrant and cosmopolitan city, entices with its stunning architecture, beautiful beaches, and lively cultural scene. Amsterdam, with its picturesque canals, world-class museums, and laid-back atmosphere, offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern flair.

Prague, a fairytale-like destination, delights with its fairytale castles, cobblestone streets, and rich history. Each of these cities has something extraordinary to offer, ensuring an unforgettable 5-day journey through European marvels.

Consider your personal interests, budget, travel preferences, and the time of year when choosing a city. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an art lover, a foodie, or seeking a relaxing beach getaway, Europe has a city that will satisfy your desires.

From the romantic streets of Paris to the ancient wonders of Rome, the vibrant energy of Barcelona, the enchanting canals of Amsterdam, and the magical atmosphere of Prague, each city opens a world of exploration and adventure.

Whatever city you choose, be prepared to be captivated by its beauty, immerse yourself in its culture, indulge in its cuisine, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Embark on your 5-day European trip with excitement and anticipation, ready to embark on a journey of discovery and cultural immersion.

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  • Helicopter Tours
  • Horseback Riding
  • Land & Sea Exploration
  • Local Market Visits
  • Northern Lights
  • Photography Seminars
  • Scuba Diving
  • Small Ship Cruises
  • Small Ship Sailing
  • Spa Relaxation
  • Stand Up Paddle Boarding
  • Urban Exploration
  • Village Visits
  • Whale Watching
  • Wilderness Lodge Exploration
  • Wildlife Viewing
  • Wine Tasting
  • Adriatic Pearl
  • Adriatic Sun
  • Avalon Envision
  • Avalon Expression
  • Avalon Imagery II
  • Avalon Impression
  • Avalon Panorama
  • Avalon Passion
  • Avalon Poetry II
  • Avalon Tapestry II
  • Avalon Tranquility II
  • Avalon View
  • Avalon Vista
  • Emerald Azzurra
  • Emerald Dawn
  • Emerald Destiny
  • Emerald Liberté
  • Emerald Luna
  • Emerald Radiance
  • Emerald Sakara
  • Emerald Sky
  • Emerald Star
  • Emerald Sun
  • Greg Mortimer
  • L'Art de Vivre
  • L’Impressionniste
  • La Bella Vita
  • La Belle Epoque
  • La Nouvelle Etoile
  • Le Bougainville
  • Le Champlain
  • Le Commandant Charcot
  • Le Dumont-d'Urville
  • Le Laperouse
  • Lord of the Glens
  • M/S Ambassador
  • M/S Captain Bota
  • M/S Invictus
  • M/S Mama Marija
  • M/S Mama Marija II
  • M/S Sjoveien
  • M/S Splendid
  • M/S Stockholm
  • Magna Carta
  • MS Amabella
  • MS Amacello
  • MS Amacerto
  • MS Amadante
  • MS Amadolce
  • MS Amadouro
  • MS Amakristina
  • MS Amalia Rodrigues
  • MS Amalucia
  • MS AmaMagna
  • MS Amaprima
  • MS Amaserena
  • MS AmaSiena
  • MS Amasonata
  • MS Amastella
  • MS Amaverde
  • MS Amaviola
  • MS Beethoven
  • MS Botticelli
  • MS Fernao de Magalhaes
  • MS Fridtjof Nansen
  • MS Gérard Schmitter
  • MS Gil Eanes
  • MS Infante Don Henrique
  • MS L'Europe
  • MS La Belle de Cadix
  • MS La Boheme
  • MS Lafayette
  • MS Leonard De Vinci
  • MS Loire Princesse
  • MS Michelangelo
  • MS Miguel Torga
  • MS Mona Lisa
  • MS Rhone Princess
  • MS San Spirito
  • MS Seaventure
  • MS Seine Princess
  • MS Spitsbergen
  • MS Symphonie
  • MS Vasco de Gama
  • MS Victor Hugo
  • MV La Belle de L'Adriatique
  • MV La Belle des Océans
  • MV Plancius
  • MV Vikingfjord
  • National Geographic Endurance
  • National Geographic Explorer
  • National Geographic Resolution
  • Ocean Adventurer
  • Ocean Albatros
  • Ocean Endeavour
  • Ocean Explorer
  • Rembrandt van Rijn
  • Renaissance
  • River Duchess
  • River Empress
  • River Princess
  • River Queen
  • Royal Clipper
  • S.S. Antoinette
  • S.S. Beatrice
  • S.S. Bon Voyage
  • S.S. Joie de Vivre
  • S.S. Maria Theresa
  • S.S. Sao Gabriel
  • Scenic Amber
  • Scenic Azure
  • Scenic Crystal
  • Scenic Diamond
  • Scenic Eclipse
  • Scenic Jasper
  • Scenic Opal
  • Scenic Pearl
  • Scenic Ruby
  • Scenic Sapphire
  • Scottish Highlander
  • Sea Cloud II
  • Sea Cloud Spirit
  • Seabourn Venture
  • Shannon Princess
  • Silver Endeavour
  • Silver Whisper
  • Silver Wind
  • Spirit of Scotland
  • Star Clipper
  • Sylvia Earle
  • Ultramarine
  • Variety Voyager
  • Viking Cruises
  • World Navigator
  • World Traveller
  • World Voyager

Wild Iceland Escape

  • Explore Iceland's pristine fjords
  • Soak in geothermal hot springs,
  • Discover Westfjords' biodiversity
  • Watch out for humpback whales

Strútur Trek

  • Explore Mt Sveinstindur
  • Experience Eldgjá
  • Explore Syðri Ófæra river
  • Discover Skaftá River

Delightful Christmas Markets in the Neckar Valley

  • Explore romantic city of Heidelberg
  • See whimsical Christmas Market
  • Tour in historic Speyer
  • Stroll through Eberbach

Rhineland And Dutch Christmas

  • Experience the magic of Christmas
  • Explore romantic Rhine Valley
  • Tour the city of Cologne

Springtime in Holland

  • Discover Dutch & Flemish ports
  • See the floral gardens of Keukenhof
  • Tour Amsterdam's canals at night
  • Tour the canals of Amsterdam
  • Explore the Keukenhof Gardens

Ocean Voyage: Bergen-Helsinki

  • Explore Bergen's historic streets
  • Ascend Bergen's cable car
  • Experience Helsinki's charm
  • Savor graavilohi

An Outing to the Dolce Vita

  • See views from Castello Sant' Elmo
  • Explore Lipari cultural heritage
  • Visit the Aeolian Museum
  • Sail along Amalfi Coast

The Loire Valley, a Royal Legacy

  • Discover Nantes
  • Experience the Muscadet Wine Route
  • Explore castles and gardens
  • Enjoy the river in France

Christmas on the romantic rhine, the enhancement of the Lorelei Rock

  • Discover Lorelei Rock
  • Experience Marksburg castle
  • Explore Rudesheim

The Romantic Rhine Valley and the Rock of Lorelei

  • Explore the old Strasbourg at night
  • Visit the famous Drosselgasse
  • Enjoy a tasting of local wines

Christmastime in Alsace and Germany

  • Experience the Black Forest
  • Explore Christmas market in Europe
  • Visit Fascinating Heidelberg Castle
  • Tour Strasbourg Cathedral

The Magic of Christmas: Savory Delights And Holiday Traditions On A Rhine River Cruise

  • Savor the magic of Christmas
  • Make Alsatian Christmas cookies
  • Explore Christmas markets

Natural Iceland Adventure

  • Tour a glacier
  • Explore Snæfellsnes Peninsula
  • Visit the Golden Circle

Ocean Voyage: Brest - Reykjavík

  • Take a dip at the Blue Lagoon
  • Visit Oskjuhlið hill museum
  • Discover Oceanopolis center
  • Explore Château de Brest Museum
  • Explore cozy Christmas markets
  • Visit historic Heidelberg Castle
  • Tour the Strasbourg Cathedral

Top Europe Travel Destinations

  • Czech Republic
  • Danube River
  • Douro River
  • French Riviera
  • Mediterranean
  • Moselle River
  • Netherlands
  • Norway Fjords
  • Rhine River
  • Rhone River
  • Russian Arctic
  • Scandinavia
  • Seine River
  • Switzerland
  • United Kingdom

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Europe Trips by Activity

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Europe Travel Guide

Last Updated: January 8, 2024

The historic city of Prague with its classic stunning architecture

From beautiful Paris to smoke-filled coffeeshops in Amsterdam, Oktoberfest to La Tomatina, Europe is a massive, diverse continent with an unlimited assortment of things to see and do. You won’t have any problem filling your time, whether you’re backpacking Europe for a few months on a budget or just spending a few weeks there on a well-earned vacation.

The continent boasts wonderful beaches, historical architecture, amazing wine, and tons of world-class festivals. Every country is incredibly different from the next too, providing limitless variety in what you do during your trip.

I first backpacked Europe in 2006 and was hooked immediately. I’ve been visiting every year since, have run tours around the continent, and even wrote a book on traveling in Europe . It’s a destination I love and never get tired of exploring.

This guide will give you an overview of Europe and the tips and tricks you need to start planning your trip. I’ve also written extensive travel guides to each country on the continent (linked below in this post) so you can get more in-depth information for your specific itinerary too!

Table of Contents

  • Things to See and Do
  • Typical Costs
  • Suggested Budget
  • Money-Saving Tips
  • Where to Stay
  • How to Get Around
  • How to Stay Safe
  • Best Places to Book Your Trip
  • Related Blogs on Europe

Click Here for Country Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in europe.

Aerial view of Greek town along the Mediterranean ocean, with mountains in the background

1. Tour the Greek Islands

These islands are the mecca of summer beach fun and each is unique in its own great way. There’s Ios (beach party central with archeological ruins and awesome boat tours); Kos (ancient ruins and nature); Crete (Bronze Age ruins of Knossos, hiking, beaches, and wine), Santorini (iconic blue water, white buildings, and local wineries); Mykonos , (the upscale party island with beautiful beaches, villages, and sunsets), Naxos (best island in the Cyclades). Plus, Milos, Corfu, Lemnos, Zakynthos, and so many more! With hundreds of islands in the country, you can always find what you are looking for!

2. Ride the rails

Europe is famous for its international rail system. Rail passes like the Eurail Pass have been around forever and still make it very easy to get from country to country on a relatively small budget (and with lots of flexibility). Europe has some of the fastest trains in the world that travel up to an incredible 217 mph (350 kph). The whole continent is connected by trains and there’s a growing push for even more connections and long-distance, high-speed trains in order to reduce flying and help combat climate change. There’s nothing more quintessential than riding the trains in Europe and I encourage you to take as many trains as possible. It’s one of the best ways to see the continent.

3. Get lost in Paris

The “City of Lights” is everything people say it is. I fell in love with it the first time I stepped foot in Paris . The city is just magical. You have a ton of museums, cafes, jazz clubs, famous art, and beautiful architecture. I love just strolling around the streets of the Quartier Latin (Latin Quarter) or Montmartre neighborhood as it makes for a breathtaking day. Another one of my favorite things to do here is just sit in the Jardin des Champs-Élysées park and picnic like the Parisians. For something a bit different, check out the famous Catacombs and Paris Sewer Museum. With so much to offer in the way of culture, history, and gastronomy, it would take years to see everything here but you can still get a good feel of the city in a few days.

4. Go city hopping

There are so many amazing cities in Europe that we’d need a top 100 to list them all. Here are some of my personal favorites and must-see cities: London is rich in history, culture, and the famous Big Ben clock; Edinburgh is a vibrant medieval city with cozy pubs and a famous castle with a huge New Year’s Eve Party; Amsterdam has cozy coffee shops and canopied tree-covered canals; Berlin has a wild party scene, street art, and the Berlin Wall; Barcelona has tapas, beach, and unique Gaudi architecture; coastal Lisbon has colorful tiles, old tramcars, cobblestone streets and plenty of fresh seafood; Prague has a beautiful intact Old Town, incredible architecture and eclectic bars; Tallinn Estonia has beautiful medieval buildings with colorful roofs. Florence  is a mecca for Italian Renaissance architecture, art history, and gelato; Stockholm mixes medieval architecture and modern art and design. Crisscross the continent, take in the culture, and enjoy all the historic cities!

5. Hit the Alps

Whether you go skiing in the winter or hiking in the summer, the Alps hold some of the most breathtaking views in all the world. You don’t even need to be an expert hiker because there are mountain trails for all levels and crystal-clear Alpine lakes. Check out the spectacular Eibsee trail loop in Bavaria at the foot of Die Zugspitze, Germany’s tallest mountain, for the clearest, multi-colored, sparkling lake you’ve ever seen. Or the Männlichen Kleine Scheidegg Panorama trail in Switzerland’s stunning green and snow-capped Alps. Or visit Italy’s Dolomites in South Tyrol for the scenic Seceda trail. The Alps have trails for every fitness level and in every season.

Other Things to See and Do in Europe

1. tour amsterdam.

I love Amsterdam so much that I lived here for a short period of time in 2006. Here cobblestone and brick streets weave around lovely canals as people ride their bikes to and fro. My favorite things to enjoy here are Amsterdam’s vibrant art and music scene and there are also a ton of interesting museums here like the Anne Frank House, FOAM, the history museum, and the hemp museum. Be sure you get out of the center into Jordaan and Oost with their wonderful outdoor cafes and fewer tourists. Also, a visit to Amsterdam wouldn’t be complete without a canal cruise to visit the many islands and there are many to choose from that include snacks and drinks, sunset cruises, live guided tours, and more.

2. Hang out in Barcelona

Barcelona is a city that goes 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It truly could give NYC a run for the “city that never sleeps” title. Be prepared for late-night dinners and parties until dawn. Besides a great food and nightlife scene, there is a wonderful beach, tons of Gaudi architecture (including the fairytale-like Parc Güell, as well as the iconic Sagrada Familia , which has been under construction for over 100 years!), incredible food tours, one of the best history museums in the country, and lots of outdoor spaces. What I love about Barcelona is that when you’re ready to chill, you can wander around Parc de la Ciutadella and marvel at the majestic fountains, plant life, and buildings created from an ornate military fortress.

3. Visit Berlin

Hip and trendy Berlin is an energetic destination. It is one of Europe’s most affordable capital cities, with a vibrant music and art scene and a growing foodie movement. Be sure to spend some time learning about the city’s darker history via the many excellent museums, memorials, and landmarks. The East Side Gallery, a section of the Berlin Wall that’s now painted with murals, and the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe are two especially powerful reminders of Germany’s past. For all periods of German history, don’t miss the Deutsches Historisches Museum (German Historical Museum) – it’s one of the best history museums in the world. Once you’ve had your fill of history, relax in Berlin’s many green spaces, from Tempelhof Field, the site of a former airfield and popular local hangout spot, to Tiergarten, a tree-covered former hunting ground for 17th-century aristocrats.

4. Drink beer at Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest is a must for anyone going to Germany at the end of September. While not a budget option since beers now cost 15 € a maß, I love the energy and friendly camaraderie this event inspires. For two weeks, millions of people from all over the world gather for lots of beer, excitement, music, and wild fun. Watching thousands of people sing together, raising quart-sized beer mugs for endless toasts, and enjoying the general party atmosphere makes you feel good about the world. (Or maybe that’s just the beer?) Just be sure to book your accommodation well in advance and be prepared to pay top prices for them. If you don’t have an outfit, don’t worry, there are plenty of shops even at the main train station where you can buy a Bavarian dirndl dress and men’s lederhosen.

5. Experience London

Get a taste of English culture in diverse London . The museums here are some of the best in the world (most are free) and include the Tate, the British Museum, the City Museum, the National Gallery, the Historical Museum. There’s no shortage of iconic sights here as well, with Big Ben, the House of Parliament, the London Eye, the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, and of course, Buckingham Palace. I love London’s diversity because of the countless international eateries with great food and wonderful pub culture, perfect for after a long day seeing the sights. Head to Brick Lane on the weekends for some amazing food and craft markets. I prefer Paris to London, but there is something sophisticated and fun about London. Just watch those pints — London is not a cheap destination!

6. Get outdoors in Scandinavia

My favorite region in Europe is Scandinavia. The quality of life here is high, the people are beautiful and friendly, and the cities are clean and historic. Cycling the cities, taking canal tours, hiking the vast forested areas, archipelago hopping, enjoying fika (a Swedish coffee break), and warming up in saunas are just a few of the popular activities that await you here. True, this area of Europe is not cheap, but there are plenty of ways to reduce your expenses. Don’t let the high prices scare you away. Highlights for me include Copenhagen , Stockholm , Gotland, Norway’s fjords, and Lapland in Finland .

7. Get enchanted in Prague

Prague has an amazing history and is one of the most beautiful and picturesque cities I’ve ever seen. Highlights include the 9th-century Prague Castle, the magnificent Charles Bridge (built in the 14th century and one of the oldest standing bridges in the world), the 10th-century old square with its iconic astronomical clock, and the winding Jewish Quarter. Even if you only have a few days there don’t miss the free walking tour which is one of my favorites in Europe and the best way to learn about the Old Town and the tragic history of the city that went from thriving Bohemian capital of art, music, and literature to part of the Iron Curtain after WWII. Some of my favorite gems here include the fantastic black light theater shows in 4D and the one-of-a-kind medieval dinner show in an old tavern complete with musicians and jugglers not to mention hearty food and drinks. During the weekends it heaves with people enjoying the bars, cheap beer, and delicious food so try to visit during the week (and in the spring or fall) to beat the crowds.

8. Relax on the French Riviera

Here, you can pretend to live the high life for a little bit. Have fun in the sun, relax on the beach, swim in azure blue water, hobnob with the rich and famous, and sail on (or gaze at) gigantic yachts. As for cities, Nice is nice with its palm-tree-lined promenade, old town, and many art museums. If you want to go see how the rich and famous live, spend an afternoon checking out Cannes to soak up some glamorous vibes on La Croisette where they hold the famous Cannes Film Festival. The kingdom of Monaco with its tiny streets, beautiful buildings, and world-famous casino is just a skip away too.

9. Enjoy the great outdoors in Interlaken

Located in the beautiful mountains of Switzerland, Interlaken is a gorgeous place to unwind with fantastic hiking, delicious hot chocolate, and plenty of outdoor sports. The area is full of natural attractions to explore, including the St. Beatus Caves (complete with a legendary dragon), the cascading 500-meter-high (1,640 feet) Giessbach Waterfalls, the Jungfraujoch mountain railway (which leads to the highest train station on the continent), and a plethora of lakes (hence the town’s name). It’s a good alternative to all the cities and museums. Interlaken is also a popular party destination for backpackers and other young travelers. By far, my favorite scenic and visually stunning trail was the Oberberghorn panoramic hike, where you can wander the green mountain ridge ogling the amazing views and the turquoise-blue Brienzersee.

10. Experience history in Rome

In this thriving historical city, you can’t walk two feet without stumbling over a ruin, making Rome a history buff’s dream. Its tiny streets are perfect for wandering as you explore the Colosseum, see the Forum and Palatine Hill, visit the Pantheon, spend time in Vatican City, admire the Spanish Steps, and toss coins into the famous Trevi Fountain. The skip-the-line tickets can definitely be worth it so you don’t waste time waiting outside attractions. Rome also has amazing food (it’s Italy, after all) and nightlife. Visit the Trastevere area for a taste of “local” Rome and chill bars. It’s my favorite area in the city because you feel like you’re in a small village in the middle of a big city.

11. Hike around the Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is my favorite part of Italy. These five beautiful cliffside towns are perched near warm waters and beautiful olive and grape groves. There are wondrous and strenuous hikes in these hills; for a real challenge, take trail #8. Or just walk the coastline for something less difficult. Many activities here revolve around the coastline: kayaking, swimming, having a beach picnic or visiting the Technical Naval Museum. If you happen to be here in December or January, don’t miss the Nativity Manarola, the world’s biggest lighted nativity scene.

12. Tour Krakow

Krakow looks like it stepped out of a medieval postcard. It’s a hip, trendy, and youthful city that’s the center of education in Poland, meaning there are a lot of university students here. Most travelers come to party here (the vodka is cheap) but try to enjoy the city’s history and food besides just the bars. Walk the Royal Road through the Old Town to the 13th-century Wawel Castle, tour Schindler’s Factory (where Schindler saved over 1,200 Jews during World War II), and visit the sobering Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp. You can also take a fascinating day trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Wieliczka Salt Mine, a 13th-century mine with cavernous chambers, statues, chapels, chandeliers, and cathedrals all carved out of salt.

13. Visit the ruin bars in Budapest

The coolest nightlife in all of Europe is found in Budapest . Built in abandoned buildings, ruin bars feature funky art installations, repurposed furniture, and quirky decor. They are amazing, fun, and great places to meet locals, as people of all ages flock here. Open since 2001, Szimpla Kert is the original ruin bar and one of my favorites, along with Instant-Fogas Complex, which takes up an entire building and is actually many different bars in one. Don’t skip the ruin bars — they’re one of the most unique things about the city!

14. Explore Cornwall

The best part of England is outside London, yet unfortunately, not a lot of travelers leave London. Head west to the area of Cornwall for cheaper prices, welcoming locals, natural beauty, great hiking, rolling hills, plenty of medieval castles, and picturesque small towns. If you like biking, the Camel Trail from Bodmin to Padstow is worth the trip and you even pass by a local vineyard. It’s an easy way to spend a day (and it’s pretty flat so it’s not too hard to do.) Plus, I had the best fish and chips in Cornwall! Overall, it’s what you think of as “traditional England.”

15. Walk the Camino

El Camino de Santiago (The Way of Saint James) is an ancient pilgrimage route that stretches from France all the way across northern Spain. It is a 500 mile (800 km) trail that winds through incredible terrain, ending in Santiago de Compostela at the cathedral where St. James is supposedly buried. As a pilgrim, you get a “pilgrim’s passport” which allows you to stay in affordable pilgrim-only hostels, making this a surprisingly budget-friendly adventure. While it usually takes over a month to complete, you can just walk a section if you don’t have the time. To receive a “Compostela” (certificate of completion), you just need to walk the last 62 miles (100 km), which generally takes 4-5 days.

16. Throw tomatoes during La Tomatina

By far my favorite festival, the largest food fight in the world happens during the last Wednesday of August in Bunol, Spain. What started in 1945 as a local brawl has turned into a massive event drawing tens of thousands of people from all over the world. For about an hour, everyone throws tomatoes at each other, leaving streets ankle-deep in tomato juice. Afterward, everyone walks down to the river, cleans off, and then heads to the town square for sangria and music.

17. Find Dracula in Romania

Not a lot of people visit Romania but this underrated country in Eastern Europe has undiscovered yet picturesque medieval towns like Brasov (home to “Dracula’s castle”), Sighisoara, and Sibiu; gorgeous beaches on the Black Sea; and incredible hiking in the Fagaras Mountains — all at dirt-cheap prices. Other major sights include frescoed Byzantine monasteries, the steepled wooden churches of Transylvania, the hip university town Cluj-Napoca, the post-communist capital of Bucharest, and the Danube Delta, a huge nature reserve.

18. Drink whisky in Islay

Whisky has a long history on Islay , an island off Scotland’s west coast. It’s been made there since the 16th-century — first in backyards and then, starting in the 19th-century, in large distilleries. Over the years, whisky from the island came to be considered a specialty and was used to flavor a lot of other blends on the mainland. There are currently nine working distilleries on the island, all located along the island’s shores, with Laphroaig, Ardbeg, and Lagavulin being the most famous. Most distilleries here make single-malt Scotch, meaning that only one type of grain (barley) is used. My visit here was amazing and, even if you don’t like whisky, there are tons of good hikes and walks throughout this magnificent island.

19. Explore Iceland

Iceland is a magical country with majestic waterfalls, hidden hot springs around every corner, and sweeping vistas unlike anywhere else in the world. After my first visit, the country quickly became one of my favorite countries. With whale watching in the summer, the northern lights in the winter, and geothermal baths for soaking in year-round, there really is no bad time to visit! While Iceland’s main draw is the epic natural landscapes, it’s worth spending a couple of days in Reykjavik with its café culture, artsy feel, and brightly colored wooden row houses.

20. Sail the Croatian coast

With calm winds, short distances, a coastline littered with over 1,000 islands, and countless historical sites, Croatia is one of the world’s best sailing destinations. If you can, go during the shoulder season when you can find some great deals. Plan to stay at least a couple of days on one of the islands, with the most popular being Brac, Hvar, Krk, Cres, and Lošinj. However, don’t be afraid to get off the beaten path and explore some of the lesser-known islands such as Silba, Vis, and Lastovo. If you want to splash out and spend a week partying on a yacht, check out The Yacht Week, which hosts week-long parties, complete with DJs, from May-September. You can book a full boat to share with friends or just a cabin if you’re traveling solo. Prices start at 5,250 HRK per person and go up to 9,300 HRK.

21. Explore the Balkans

While the Balkans have become more popular with backpackers in recent years, it’s still largely overlooked by most budget travelers, despite being an extremely budget-friendly region. The Balkan peninsula is home to great (and again, overlooked) wine, beautiful medieval towns like Kotor and Mostar, stunning mountainous landscapes, beautiful pebble beaches, coffee culture, fresh, hearty yet inexpensive food, and museums covering the area’s history, including the most recent turbulent events of the early 1990s. I especially loved my time in Albania . Don’t miss the beautiful beaches in Ksamil, nicknamed the “Maldives of Europe’ as well as the mountain village of Gjirokastër, which was occupied by Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans. The Balkans have so much to offer for every budget and every country has its unique cultural flavor.

22. Take a wine tour in the Loire Valley

Located in central France, the picturesque Loire Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site and stretches 280 kilometers (174 miles) along the Loire River. One of the major wine-producing regions of France, the area is home to some of the best wines in the world, with over 1,000 vineyards open to the public. Even those who don’t drink wine will enjoy the beautiful small towns, great food, and the region’s over 300 impressive chateaux. I loved the medieval Chenonceau Castle and Chateau Villandry and the small villages like Saint-Florent-le-Vieil. Spring and Autumn are my favorite times to visit because you can go biking and do outdoor activities when it’s not too hot and there are fewer people. It’s an area not to be missed.

23. See Fado in Portugal

Fado is an important musical tradition in Portugal , originating in Lisbon and stretching back some 200 years. The word “fado” likely stems from the Latin word for fate, and it’s very haunting, poetic, and emotional music. Most of the songs follow themes of loss and mourning, and the music was popular with the working class (especially sailors). Performances normally take place in restaurants during dinner. In Lisbon, head to Clube de Fado, Tasca do Chico, Parreirinha de Alfama, or Senhor Vinho.

24. Tour green Slovenia

Slovenia is one of Europe’s least-visited destinations, which is mind-blowing to me because it’s an amazing place to visit. Slovenia offers all the beauty of Western Europe but at a fraction of the cost and with a fraction of the crowds. Perfect for outdoor adventure lovers, Slovenia offers rugged mountains, untouched landscapes, fantastic ski resorts, plentiful wine, sprawling cave systems, incredible food, and postcard-perfect lakes, such as the famous Lake Bled with its castle on an island. I loved Piran, Slovenia’s often overlooked coastal Venetian-style harbor town that was actually founded 3000 years ago. Stroll around its beautiful windy cobble-stoned streets, beautiful plazas, and take advantage of the many affordable restaurants right on the water. Make sure to also spend a few days in the country’s capital, Ljubljana, known as one of the continent’s greenest and most livable cities. Take a river cruise to see the city and enjoy the friendliness of the locals.

  For more information on specific countries in Europe, check out the guides below:

  • Albania Travel Guide
  • Austria Travel Guide
  • Belgium Travel Guide
  • Belarus Travel Guide
  • Bosnia & Herzegovina Travel Guide
  • Bulgaria Travel Guide
  • Czechia Travel Guide
  • Croatia Travel Guide
  • Denmark Travel Guide
  • England Travel Guide
  • Estonia Travel Guide
  • Finland Travel Guide
  • France Travel Guide
  • Germany Travel Guide
  • Greece Travel Guide
  • Hungary Travel Guide
  • Iceland Travel Guide
  • Ireland Travel Guide
  • Italy Travel Guide
  • Latvia Travel Guide
  • Lithuania Travel Guide
  • Malta Travel Guide
  • Moldova Travel Guide
  • Montenegro Travel Guide
  • Netherlands Travel Guide
  • Norway Travel Guide
  • Portugal Travel Guide
  • Poland Travel Guide
  • Romania Travel Guide
  • Scotland Travel Guide
  • Slovakia Travel Guide
  • Slovenia Travel Guide
  • Spain Travel Guide
  • Sweden Travel Guide
  • Switzerland Travel Guide
  • Ukraine Travel Guide

Europe Travel Costs

a traditional Austrian home overlooking the snow capped mountains and rolling hills in the Austria countryside

Accommodation – Accommodation prices vary greatly by region. In Western Europe, hostel dorm rooms cost between 25-45 EUR per night, depending on the room’s size and the popularity of the hostel. I stayed in a 6-bed dorm in Berlin for 20 EUR, while the same one would have cost me around 45 EUR in Paris. A room in Paris costs on the higher end and a room in cheaper Athens costs on the lower end.

In Eastern Europe, hostel dorm rooms cost between 10-15 EUR per night depending on the size of the dorm room and the popularity of the hostel. The further east you go, the cheaper it gets. Expect to pay around 30-60 EUR per night for a private room that sleeps two.

In Scandinavia, hostel dorm beds cost around 25-45 EUR, while private rooms are 65-80 EUR. Budget hotels start around 85 EUR.

Most accommodations offer free linens, free Wi-Fi, and a lot offer free breakfast, but it’s important to check specific websites for exact amenities.

Campsites cost between 10-15 EUR per night for a basic plot for two without electricity.

Food – Food traditions in Europe run deep, stretching back centuries to become integral parts of each country’s culture. From baguettes in France to tapas in Spain, from hearty Eastern European stews and goulash to the fresh vegetables and olive oils of the Mediterranean, European cuisine varies as much as the countries themselves. Food prices differ greatly across the continent, so check individual country guides for specifics.

But no matter where you are, even in the more expensive countries, finding places to eat within your budget is easier than you might think. Throughout Western Europe, you can find small shops, street food stalls, or food trucks where you can get sandwiches, gyros, kebabs, slices of pizza, or sausages for between 3-7 EUR. These shops are most often found in train stations, bus stations, and main pedestrian areas, and offer cheap food alternatives that can have you eating on 12-17 EUR per day. Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 7-10 EUR for a combo meal.

Turkish, Middle Eastern, and Vietnamese eateries abound in Germany, while Indian food is incredible and everywhere in the United Kingdom. Meals at these restaurants usually cost between 8-12 EUR.

Restaurant meals in casual, traditional eateries generally cost around 13-25 EUR for a main dish and drink. Food is much cheaper in the east than in the west, and in the west, northern regions like Scandinavia and the UK are more expensive than southern countries like Spain, Portugal, and Italy.

In Eastern Europe, even if you are eating out for all your meals, you can still get by on a food budget of as little as 15 EUR per day.

For drinks, a pint of beer is 2-5 EUR, a glass of wine is 2-7 EUR, a cappuccino is 2-5 EUR, and cocktails range from 6-14 EUR.

If you eat out, do so at lunch and get the prix-fixe menu (two-course or three-course set menu). Restaurants offer this set menu during lunch, and with prices between 10-20 EUR, it’s a way better deal than the regular dinner menu. You can also get affordable lunches at outdoor markets. So many European cities have huge fresh food markets throughout town.

You can cook your own food for around 45-65 EUR per week. This gets you basic staples like rice, pasta, seasonal produce, bread, and some meat. You can save money by shopping at discount supermarkets like Profi, Lidl, Aldi, and Penny Market.

If you want to save big money on meals, head to one of the markets, pick up some cheese, wine, bread, meats, or anything else, and go to the park for a picnic. (Or grab a sandwich for later!) You’ll find the locals doing the same thing, and it’s one of the cheaper ways to get a true taste of local food.

Backpacking Europe Suggested Budgets

Prices for travel in Europe vary greatly depending on how far north, east, south, or west you travel. If you stick to the budget accommodations, food, and tours listed here and use all my tips on saving money, you need about 65-110 EUR per day in Western Europe, 40-50 EUR in Eastern Europe, and about 85-130 EUR in Scandinavia.

Those numbers reflect a traveler who stays in hostels, cooks some meals and eats out cheaply, enjoys a few drinks, and sticks to free and cheap activities like hiking, walking tours, and enjoying nature. This is your typical backpacker budget. You aren’t going to have a fancy time, but you aren’t going to want for anything either.

However, by getting tourist cards and rail passes, avoiding flights, occasionally Couchsurfing or camping, cooking all your meals, and not drinking, you can travel a lot cheaper. On this budget, you could do Western Europe on 35-45 EUR per day, Eastern Europe on 20-25 EUR, and Scandinavia on 50-65 EUR. That would require you to take a train or a bus or hitchhike everywhere, skip most museums, and limit how often you go out.

Generally, the suggested daily budget for Europe is 80-120 EUR. You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need to budget daily. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Europe Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Individual country guides have more specific information on how to save money in them but here are some general tips on cutting your costs while you explore Europe:

  • Picnic – This continent has a lot of little shops where you can buy pre-made sandwiches or ingredients to make your own. Many supermarkets have delis as well where you can get food to go. Buy some food, eat outside, and watch the city and its people go by. It’s a much more enjoyable and cheaper way to eat.
  • Eat local and cheap – Not into picnicking? Eat at local sandwich shops, pizza parlors, Maoz, Wok to Walks, and outdoor street vendors. Avoiding restaurants and eating at a lot of the local “grab n’ go” places gives you a taste of the local cuisine at a much cheaper price. If you’re really on a budget, use your creative cooking skills to prepare meals at the hostel as well.
  • Stay with a local – Hostels can add up really quickly. If you don’t have any friends with whom you can stay, consider using Couchsurfing , which connects you with locals who let you stay with them for free. Plus, they tend to also have meetups to meet other locals and travelers. It’s a great way to save on accommodation and meet a local who can share their insider tips and advice.
  • Camp in a garden – A very good camping service specific to Europe is Campspace , which allows you to pitch a tent in someone’s backyard for free or for a small fee (around 10-20 EUR). All of the garden owners have profiles that tell you what services and facilities they offer. Also, many countries allow wild camping (like Sweden), which can save you a fortune if you have a tent.
  • Take the bus – Budget bus companies like Flixbus can take you across the continent for cheap. I personally feel it’s best for day travel as sitting up for an overnight bus isn’t really ideal for sleeping. It isn’t glamorous, but with tickets starting at 5 EUR, you really can’t complain!
  • Get a Rail Pass – Eurail Passes have saved me hundreds of dollars. If you are traveling far distances and through many countries, they are a great deal.
  • Take the free city tours – One of the great things about Europe is that you can find free walking tours in all the major cities. They can be a great way to see the city attractions, take in some history, and learn your bearings without spending any money. Just make sure to tip your guide at the end!
  • Plan accordingly – Plan your trip around Europe so you avoid doubling back. Transportation is a big expense so proper planning can save you a lot of money (and time). Go in a straight line or a loop. Booking your accommodation ahead helps you save as well since cheap, good places unsurprisingly get reserved first. One thing I’ve learned is that waiting until the last minute means you get stuck with expensive places or cheap places no one wants.
  • Fly cheap – If you know where you are going and a train won’t do, try to book flights early. You can often get round trip fares for as little as 5 EUR from many of the European discount airlines like Ryanair or Wizz. Many capital cities have smaller airports farther from the city with ‘inconvenient’ times but cheaper fares. Keep in mind you might need to factor in an early morning Uber or taxi if the busses aren’t running and you have an early flight!
  • Drink less – Those 5 EUR beers add up. Hit happy hours or pick and choose when you party. Hostel bars are a good place to get cheap drinks or buy your alcohol at the supermarket. Plus, in Europe, it’s legal to drink outside in parks, plazas, by the lakes or rivers. You’ll find you can save a lot of money by not going to bars and clubs. Partying your way across the continent will destroy your bank balance in no time.
  • Get a city tourist card – Many local tourism offices sell a tourism card for all their attractions, tours, and restaurants. This card gives you free entry and substantial discounts on all the attractions and tours in a city, free local public transportation (a huge plus), and discounts at a few restaurants and shopping malls. They save a ton of money. If you plan on doing a lot of sightseeing, get one of these cards.
  • Rideshare – If you’re flexible in your schedule, use the ridesharing service BlaBlaCar to catch rides with locals between cities (or countries) by paying a small fee. It’s like Airbnb but for rides. I used this service in Switzerland and, not only did I save a lot of money, but I got to meet interesting people and learn about local culture and life. Drivers are verified and it’s perfectly safe, though sometimes rides cancel at the last minute (which is why you need to be flexible). Check their ratings first and try to use rides where the person has done many trips.
  • Bring a water bottle – The tap water is safe to drink in most of Europe, so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.
  • Get a HostelPass – HostelPass is a discount membership for hostels in Europe. Members get 10-20% off select hostels around Europe, as well as perks like free breakfast or free drinks. There are discounts on tours and activities too. It’s a great way to save money if you’re bouncing around Europe as they have hostels in 18 countries around the continent.

Where to Stay in Europe

Europe has a ton of budget accommodation options. The individual country and city guides have tons of recommendations but here’s a short list of some of my favorite budget hostels and hotels around Europe:

  • The Flying Pig (Amsterdam, The Netherlands)
  • Hotel 54 (Barcelona, Spain)
  • Generator Hostel (Copenhagen, Denmark)
  • Harcourt Hotel (Dublin, Ireland)
  • Castle Rock (Edinburgh, Scotland)
  • Ios Palm Pansion (Ios, Greece)
  • Greg and Tom’s Party Hostel (Krakow, Poland)
  • Largo da Sé Guest House (Lisbon, Portugal)
  • Sophie’s Hostel (Prague, Czech Republic)
  • The Yellow (Rome, Italy)
  • City Backpackers (Stockholm, Sweden)

How to Get Around Europe

The famous steam train from Harry Potter crossing an old bridge in Scotland

Public transportation – Transportation around most European cities is by tram, subway, or bus. Prices are typically around 2 EUR for a one-way ticket in Western Europe and closer to 1 EUR in Eastern Europe. Most large cities also have day passes available that offer unlimited public transportation. These passes are usually 5-12 EUR per day.

In large cities with international airports, there is usually a bus or train available that ferries travelers from the downtown core to the airport. Expect to pay around 5-15 EUR to get to/from the airport.

Bus – Buses are not quite as comfortable as Europe’s trains, although certain lines do have great amenities (like roomy seats and Wi-Fi). While buses are not the most efficient way to travel around the continent, they’re certainly dependable, reliable, and cheap. You can find last-minute rides for as little as 5 EUR. A route from Berlin to Munich is about 25 EUR, while Paris to Bordeaux can be as low as 10 EUR. Longer routes, like Amsterdam to Copenhagen, start at around 47 EUR.

Each country has its own national bus service, but some lines also take you long distances internationally. Megabus and Flixbus (which now owns Eurolines) are the most popular companies.

Train – Train travel is a great way to see Europe. Intercity train prices vary wildly from country to country, depending on whether you take the slow train or a high-speed train and how far in advance you book. For example, a high-speed train from Berlin to Munich costs around 38-60 EUR, Bordeaux to Paris is about 50-85 EUR, and Madrid to Barcelona ranges from 45-85 EUR. Non-high-speed trains and other intercity lines are a lot cheaper, generally costing about 40-50% of the price of high-speed trains. Eastern Europe inter-country trains usually cost between 45-100 EUR when the ticket is booked last minute. Short train rides of 2-3 hours within countries cost about 27 EUR.

You may also want to consider getting a Eurail Pass , which allows travelers to explore Europe by providing a set number of stops in a specific time period. These passes are continent-wide, country-specific, or regional. It can potentially save you hundreds of dollars.

Ridesharing/Car sharing – If your schedule is flexible, use a ridesharing service and catch rides with locals between cities (or countries). Drivers are verified and it’s perfectly safe. BlaBlaCar is the most popular.

If you’d rather rent a car yourself and find passengers to share a ride with, use Discover Cars to find the best car rental prices.

Flying – Budget airlines are so prolific that competition helps keep fares low. You can often find tickets where the fare is just 5 EUR round-trip! Companies like EasyJet, Ryanair, Wizz, and Vueling offer mind-blowingly cheap flights throughout Europe. Book at least a month early to scoop up great deals.

Make sure that the airport they fly into isn’t too far out of your way (transportation from the secondary airport sometimes negates the savings from using the budget airline itself).

Keep in mind that you’ll have to pay to check your baggage on these cheap flights. It costs about 25-39 EUR for one checked bag. If you wait to pay for your luggage at the gate, you end up paying almost double. Travel carry-on only to avoid this added cost.

Hitchhiking – Hitchhiking in Europe is very safe, but it’s not for everyone. Hitching is quite common around the continent and I’ve met a number of travelers who have done it (I, myself, traveled this way in Bulgaria and Iceland). Some countries are very supportive (Romania, Iceland, Germany) while others may be a bit more time-consuming (Italy, Spain). HitchWiki is the best website for hitchhiking info.

Here are my suggested articles for how to get around Europe:

  • 7 Cheap Ways to Travel Across Europe
  • Are Eurail Passes a Giant Scam or Do They Save You Money?
  • The Ultimate Guide to Finding Cheap Flights

When to Go to Europe

There’s no wrong time to visit Europe. Peak season is summer, when Europe gets crowded and August is the time most European families are at the beach so everything becomes more crowded and expensive. But the overall atmosphere and weather are great during this time, so it’s still worth visiting during peak season (just book your accommodation in advance — especially in August). Keep in mind it’s much hotter in summer so if you like AC, be sure to check that your hostel or hotel has it before you book. You can expect the most crowds in Western Europe. For this reason, I feel summer is a great time to visit the Balkans and the Baltics because many people head to the beaches in Spain, France, Italy, Croatia, and Greece.

Shoulder season is spring and fall (April-May and September-October). It’s still warm during this time but there aren’t as many crowds and prices are cheaper. This is my favorite time to visit hotspot places like Spain, Croatia and Greece, where it’s still hot enough to swim in the sea but you have way more room on the beach. It’s also a good time to go hiking in the Alps in Germany, northern Italy, Slovenia and Switzerland because it’s cooler during the day so you’re much less sweaty on the mountain without shade. The weather is good, the crowds are smaller, and the prices lower.

Winter is from November to February but in much of Central Europe, it’s wet and cold until March or April. It gets cold, even as far south as it gets (like Greece). On the other hand, the Christmas season has Christmas markets and festivals galore! Even if it’s cold, this is a cultural tradition you can’t miss and why I love Europe in December. There is hot mulled wine, sweets, and plenty of hot snacks, which vary by country. One of my favorites is Prague because the Old Town Square is lit up with a gigantic tree with aromas of crispy cinnamon pastries and mulled wine. Berlin takes their Christmas markets very seriously, so there are around 80 different markets with special themes.

Winter is fantastic in Europe for skiing and snowboarding but it doesn’t have to break the bank if you plan carefully. While Switzerland and France are probably the most famous, they are also expensive, but there are plenty of budget winter options.

How to Stay Safe in Europe

Europe is very safe for backpacking and solo traveling, even if you’re traveling solo, and even as a solo female traveler. Violent crimes against tourists are very rare. In fact, some of the safest countries in the world are in Europe. (I wrote a whole article about how Europe is safe to visit right now .)

That said, there are scams and petty crimes you should watch out for, especially around popular tourist landmarks. The most important thing to be aware of is pickpockets in crowds and on public transportation. Zip your bags and don’t put your mobile phone in a jacket pocket where someone could quickly take it. This should be obvious but don’t flash your money to let everyone know you have a huge wad of cash.

When choosing a hostel, look for ones with lockers. It’s always a good idea to carry around a padlock or combination lock. Most hostels are safe and travelers respect each other and I’ve rarely seen things happen to people’s valuables. Nevertheless, I always think that prevention is better.

As anywhere, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). When at the bar, always keep an eye on your drink. Avoid walking home alone at night if you’re intoxicated.

For female travelers in particular, it’s always a good idea to have a bit of extra money on you just in case you need to take an Uber or taxi back by yourself so you don’t take unnecessary risks to save money. If you’re using apps to date people while traveling, please use common sense and meet in public places. Since I’m not a female traveler, please check out the numerous female bloggers who have first hand knowledge of this.

If you’re worried about scams, you can read about common travel scams to avoid here.

If you rent a vehicle, don’t leave any valuables in it overnight. Break-ins are rare, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Be aware that the UK drives on the left and that most rental cars in Europe will have manual transmissions unless you request otherwise.

When hiking, always bring water, sunscreen, and bandaids or foot plasters. There is nothing worse than being halfway up the mountain with a blister and nothing you can do about it!

Likewise, when at the coast, don’t forget not only to wear sunscreen! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen people get burnt to a crisp the first day. Be sure to check the weather before you depart and dress accordingly.

If you do experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary to loved ones so they know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Europe Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

  • Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
  • Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
  • Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
  • HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
  • Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
  • The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
  • Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
  • FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
  • SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
  • LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
  • Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
  • Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

GO DEEPER: Nomadic Matt’s In-Depth Budget Guide to Europe!

Nomadic Matt's Guide to Europe

While I have a lot of free tips on Europe, I also wrote an entire book that goes into great detail on everything you need to plan a trip here on a budget! You’ll get suggested itineraries, budgets, even more ways to save money, my favorite restaurants, prices, practical information (i.e. phone numbers, websites, prices, safety advice, etc etc), and cultural tips.

I’ll give the insider view of Europe that I got from years of traveling and living here! The downloadable guide can be used on your Kindle, iPad, phone, or computer so you can have it with you when you go. Click here to learn more about my book on Europe!

Europe Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more tips for your trip? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Europe travel and continue planning your trip:

The Best Walking Tours in Barcelona

The Best Walking Tours in Barcelona

How to Be a Digital Nomad in Europe

How to Be a Digital Nomad in Europe

The Best eSIM for Traveling Europe

The Best eSIM for Traveling Europe

The 6 Best Hotels in Athens

The 6 Best Hotels in Athens

The 6 Best Hotels in Stockholm

The 6 Best Hotels in Stockholm

The 8 Best Hotels in Amsterdam

The 8 Best Hotels in Amsterdam

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13 Super Charming European Cities Well Worth a Day Trip

Go ahead. Get out and explore more.

You'd have to have a heart of stone not to be moved by the little streets of Paris , the palaces of Vienna , or the twisting canals of Venice . After all, there's a reason these iconic cities are as timeless and as popular as they are. But Europe is more than just these well-known destinations. In fact, some of Europe's most beautiful and exciting cities are often also some of the continent's smallest or most unassuming.

"Europe is such a great place to visit to enjoy the varying cultures, food, and history," Sofia Markovich, a Travel + Leisure A-List travel advisor specializing in European travel, tells T+L. "It is easy to get around Europe, but the key to taking advantage of the diversity is to pick a region and travel throughout that area." As Markovich suggests, it's a good idea to plot out your stay by region — think Western, Eastern, or Southern Europe. Markovich says this will "allow a traveler an opportunity to visit several countries on one trip," or at the very least, experience some of the continent's best cities in one go. To maximize your next European vacation's day trip potential, Markovich also suggests narrowing down your home base to a major city where public transportation is a mainstay. "Choosing larger cities as a hub provides the most flexibility and easy access to surrounding areas," she says. "For example, Munich is a great spot to stay in order to have easy access to Austria in addition to many must-see areas of Bavaria. Staying in a large hub opens the opportunity for many out-of-town tours and easy transportation options without having to spend countless hours traveling back and forth."

Indeed, Europe is incredibly easy to get around thanks to its various modes of transport, from bus to ferry, and of course, by hopping aboard its famed trains, which whizz you from one glamorous city to the next in mere hours. For example, while visiting London, visitors can make their way to the medieval city of Bruges via a three-hour ride with Eurostar. Similarly, Poland's Szczecin is a beloved waterfront city that's just a quick, two-hour train trip from Berlin. Bratislava, the charming capital of Slovakia, isn't as popular a destination as Vienna, but it's an easy day trip from the famous Austrian metropolis (only an hour away by train) and is a perfect home base for wine-tasting expeditions in the surrounding countryside.

All of the European detours listed here are easy, convenient trips, with no private drivers or even car rentals necessary. But, perhaps more importantly, all of the cities included — few of which get the attention they deserve — offer intrepid travelers the chance to have a unique, under-the-radar European experience. Below, find 13 spectacular European second cities that are absolutely worth the day trip during your stay.

Munich to Salzburg, Austria

Perhaps most famous for being the birthplace of Mozart (as well as the setting for "The Sound of Music"), Salzburg lies just on the border with Germany. A fully preserved embodiment of Baroque architecture, few modern buildings have been allowed a place in the inner city, meaning today it looks almost identical to how it did 400 years ago.

The Route: The Munich-to-Salzburg route is a quick cross-border train journey : prices begin at $27 each way, and it'll take you just under two hours to arrive. If you opt for the bus (go for ​Flixbus ) it’ll cost $13 each way with a journey time of two hours.

Where to Stay: If you're in Salzburg, you want historical luxury, and if you want historical luxury, you want ​Hotel Schloss Leopoldskron . The hotel, which served as the filming location for the von Trapp family residence in "The Sound of Music," is set inside a stunning 18th-century palace with a beautiful interior and remarkable surroundings.

Where to Eat: It's no palace, sure, but ​S'Kloane Brauhaus serves classic, rustic Austrian cuisine (think wiener schnitzel and venison stew) and home-brewed beer in a warm, traditionally decorated environment.

What to Do: Take a ​ "Sound of Music" tour , or visit the ​birthplace of Mozart , which is now a museum. Or just head down to the Alter Market and dedicate your day to eating as much Austrian street food as you can.

Berlin to Szczecin, Poland

As the country's seventh-largest city, Szczecin often finds itself in the shadow of some of Poland's more popular destinations, such as Warsaw or Kraków. Nonetheless, this port city (located just on the Poland-Germany border) is as well loved by German tourists as it is by locals, chiefly for its gorgeous riverfront and locally made beer and vodka.

The Route: Luckily, Szczecin is as easy to get to as it is hard to spell. You can catch a bus from Berlin's central bus station to central Szczecin for about $17 one way, and you'll arrive in just over two hours.

Where to Stay: The Park Hotel is a little slice of luxury situated right in the middle of Szczecin's Old Town, only a short distance away from pretty much everything in the city worth seeing — including that aforementioned riverfront.

Where to Eat: You won't have to go far for this one: the Park Hotel's restaurant is one of the highest-rated in the city and offers up a range of Polish and international dishes.

What to Do: The Szczecin Philharmonic hosts a number of events throughout the year, and the striking building itself is a wonderful example of Poland's architectural eccentricity.

Paris to Luxembourg City, Luxembourg

One of Europe's smallest capital cities (in one of Europe's smallest countries), Luxembourg City is known as the "Gibraltar of the North" for its vast series of medieval fortifications.

The Route: The high-speed train will get you there from Paris in just two hours, with one-way fares starting at $34.

Where to Stay: Effortlessly stylish yet also undeniably cozy, the Hotel Parc Beaux Arts is made up of rooms that feel like they've been lifted straight out of a charming, local cottage and is located near the Palais Grand Ducal in Luxembourg's historical city center.

Where to Eat: Take advantage of the country's unique gastronomic culture with traditional Luxembourgian fare (think beer-braised pig's trotters and sauerkraut) at Mousel's Cantine — and don't forget to try the local beer.

What to Do: The Bock casemates are a series of tunnels, running beneath the ruins of the old city fortifications, that leads out to large, cliff-side openings that offer not only some of the best panoramic views in Luxembourg but also a fascinating look into the city's history.

Venice to Pula, Croatia

An ancient city full of Roman ruins, Pula is still flourishing thanks to the same industries that put it on the map over 2,000 years ago: winemaking, fishing and leisure.

The Route: Many ferries to Pula are seasonal, and only run from April to October. (Note: You can find the odd ferry over the winter, but they are very few and far between, so don't count on being able to find a ride.) During those months, Venezia Ferries or Adriatic Lines will take you across the Adriatic in just over three hours, at $170 round-trip.

Where to Stay: Scaletta provides a touch of fun to a stay at Pula. Its colorful rooms and central location make it a perfect place to rest during your quick stay.

Where to Eat: The charming Restaurant Oaza serves up locally sourced seafood (a specialty in Pula) and traditional Croatian dishes.

What to Do: History buffs, take note: the city's many Roman ruins are a must-visit, especially the massive Pula Arena, Temple of Augustus, and Triumphal Arch. Visitors should also head down to the waterfront paths that lead out of town to try to find some of the many dinosaur footprints that are still preserved in the rocks today.

London to Bruges, Belgium

Alisha McDarris/Travel + Leisure

Bruges is a classic medieval city, which comes lined with twisting cobblestone streets, crisscrossed by canals, and towered over by the iconic Belfry of Bruges. One of Europe's prettiest secrets, the city is the perfect short getaway from the hustle and bustle of London.

The Route: The 3.5-hour Eurostar trip starts at about $140 for a one-way ticket. You’ll need to change trains in Brussels.

Where to Stay: Don't be put off by the strange name — the very reasonably priced Hotel Bla Bla in the city center is one of the coolest, friendliest hotels in Bruges.

Where to Eat: Check out Soup , a small restaurant near Bruges' Market Square that serves beer, panini, and, of course, soup. Cap off the day with a Belgian waffle at the nearby Chez Albert .

What to Do: Climb the Belfry, of course. It's the city's most famous sight, and the views from the top are nothing short of breathtaking.

Zurich to Vaduz, Liechtenstein

Liechtenstein, with its bizarre history, powerful monarchy, and tiny population, might be one of the most intriguing countries in Europe, and its Lilliputian capital city (population: 5,700) is an underrated gem for alpine travelers.

The Route: Getting from Zurich to Vaduz takes about 90 minutes. You'll need to catch a train from Zurich Hauptbahnhof to Sargans, just on the border. From there, it’s a short bus ride to Vaduz. Expect to pay around $30-$40 for the whole trip.

Where to Stay: Liechtenstein is one of the few countries left in the world that still takes its monarchy very seriously, so you might as well live like royalty yourself while visiting. And the 29 beautifully appointed rooms and suites at the luxurious, bucolic Parkhotel Sonnenhof are certainly fit for a king.

Where to Eat: You won’t have a better meal in Vaduz than at the Parkhotel Sonnehof's elegant, Michelin-starred Restaurant Marée .

What to Do: Hike out of town and take in the mountain views on the Grüschaweg Trail , or stop in on the personal cellars of the Prince of Liechtenstein for a wine and whiskey tasting .

Bern, Switzerland to Lausanne, Switzerland

Set on the shores of Lake Geneva, Lausanne is one of Switzerland's most scenic cities. The surrounding Vaud region is famous for its wines, cuisine, and stunning natural beauty, and, as the largest French-speaking region in Switzerland, provides a French-Swiss cultural experience that nicely complements a visit to the more Germanic-leaning city of Bern.

The Route: Trains run from the center of Bern straight into Lausanne for around $20 each way, and the journey takes about an hour.

Where to Stay: The Hôtel du Port is located in Lausanne's vibrant marina and has rooms overlooking Lake Geneva.

Where to Eat: Two Michelin stars, a legendary French chef, and some of the finest lake views in town: Anne-Sophie Pic au Beau-Rivage Palace is where you want to be.

What to Do: Board La Suisse , an authentic turn-of-the-century paddle steamer, for lunch and a tour of the lake.

Vienna to Bratislava, Slovakia

The wonderful thing about Vienna is just how close it is to so many of Europe's best cities — Prague, Budapest, and Munich being just a few — but Bratislava might well be Vienna's most exciting and convenient neighbor. The capital of Slovakia, Bratislava is the cultural heart of one of the world's most underrated countries.

The Route: You can get to Bratislava from Vienna in an hour on the train. The cost? A whopping $12.

Where to Stay: The Hotel Michalská Brána , in the city's historic center, has an inconspicuous, traditional exterior, but is thoroughly modern on the inside. The city's most popular bars and clubs are only seconds away, as is the magnificent Bratislava Castle.

Where to Eat: Modra Hviezda does atmospheric Central European dining at a surprisingly low cost and is frequently ranked as one of the best restaurants in the city. Make sure to try something off of their list of traditional Slovak specialties.

What to Do: It's worth heading out of the city to take a tour of the surrounding vineyards and wineries. (Slovakia, ever the underdog, has a tremendously underrated winemaking industry). And if wine isn't your thing, the Slovaks aren't exactly strangers to beer-making either.

Bilbao, Spain to Biarritz, France

Don't let the Pyrenees get in your way. Travelers staying near the Spanish-French border should take the chance to hop over to the country next door. Biarritz, on the Bay of Biscay, is a French surfing town marked by thriving nightlife and the sort of glitz and glamour you'd normally be hard-pressed to find outside of the French Riviera.

The Route: Local bus companies will sell you a ticket from Bilbao, Spain for anywhere between $9-$20 each way. The trip should take just under three hours.

Where to Stay: You're never going to want to be too far away from the seaside while you're in Biarritz, so book a room at the Hotel l'Ocean, which offers affordable luxury in the city center, only seconds away from the beach.

Where to Eat: Treat yourself to a fantastic post-surf meal at Bistro Toqué Anglet , which offers a seafood-forward menu and lighter fare.

What to Do: Surf, of course. Biarritz is as good a surfing spot as anywhere else in France or Spain, and the city has a prominent surf culture. If you're a rookie, don't panic — the École de Surf Hastea offers lessons and camps throughout the year for surfers at any level.

Amsterdam to Ghent, Belgium

Ghent is obscure enough to enjoy a relaxed, relatively quiet atmosphere, but also entertaining enough — thanks largely to its university and thriving student scene — to keep any errant partiers from Amsterdam happy.

The Route: Traveling via train will take only slightly over three hours and costs about $50-$100 each way. Buses also run to Ghent at around $15-$40 for a single ticket, and the journey will take 2.5 hours.

Where to Stay: Spend a night or two in the Boatel , a floating hotel in a converted riverboat.

Where to Eat: The Belgians do few things better than steak and frites, and Gillis probably does it best of all.

What to Do: If you're taking a break from the mile-a-minute Amsterdam nightlife, check out the Museum of Fine Arts to soak up a bit of medieval, Renaissance, and modern culture. Otherwise, head down to Korenmarkt for some of Ghent's more central bars and pubs, or out towards Blandijnberg for the city's student nightlife.

Helsinki, Finland to Tallinn, Estonia

Christopher Larson/Travel + Leisure

Tallinn, Estonia's capital, lies on the southern shores of the Gulf of Finland. Although less well known than its northern counterparts, Tallinn is often regarded as one of the most cultured, developed, and technologically advanced cities in Europe. Perhaps not the best destination if you're trying to get away from Finland’s biting cold, Tallinn is certainly a must-visit for lovers of the northern reaches of the continent.

The Route: Getting there from Helsinki will require a short trip on a ferry; the ​Viking Line or Eckerö Lines tend to have the cheapest tickets (from $20-$30 one-way), and the crossing will take about two hours.

Where to Stay: Set in an elegant, Soviet-era building, ​ My City Hotel is one of Tallinn's higher-end establishments, but its sumptuous interior and unrivaled location in the city's Old Town will more than justify the slightly higher price tag.

Where to Eat: ​ Kohvik Moon is only a short distance from the Old Town and serves high-end, modern Russian cuisine at incredibly affordable prices.

What to Do: Tallinn has a long history of producing alcoholic beverages — from beers and vodka to classic Estonian liqueurs. Explore the city’s spirited traditions during a private ​tasting tour .

Tangier, Morocco to Tarifa, Spain

Okay, so Tangier isn't quite Europe, but it's rather close — and how often do you get to go on a quick jaunt over to the continent next door? Tarifa, in the province of Cádiz, near the Strait of Gibraltar, lays claim to some of Spain's prettiest beaches and is one of the best spots for wind sports in the country.

The Route: You'll need to get the ferry across, of course. ​ ​FRS runs a few sailings a day from Tangier Ville to Tarifa. The crossing takes an hour and will set you back around $80 for a round-trip.

Where to Stay: ​Koala Tarifa is a guesthouse located in the city’s historic center that offers five apartments in a 300-year-old, perfectly preserved building.

Where to Eat: Travelers and locals go to ​ ​Vaca Loca , a small, friendly, and typically Spanish restaurant known for serving steak and grilled meats in a beautiful, traditional setting.

What to Do: Try out kitesurfing (or other wind sports) down at the beach. ​ ​KitePassion Tarifa offers private lessons for $65 per hour.

Lisbon to Cáceres, Spain

Cáceres is a mish-mash of cultures: the city was founded by the Romans, yet it’s dotted with medieval streets and Renaissance palaces and surrounded by Moorish city walls. The Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the whole town itself is not only foodie heaven — it was named the 2015 gastronomy capital of Spain by the Spanish Hospitality Federation — but is also just far enough out of the way to remain relatively tourist-free.

The Route: Since the rail route was shut down, getting to Cáceres from Lisbon takes a while — the bus journey is a five-hour trip. Nonetheless, it'll cost around $30 with ​GoEuro and will take you through some of the most stunning countryside in Iberia.

Where to Stay: The ​ ​Hotel Parador , which is part of that UNESCO Heritage Old Town, feels more like a palace than a hotel, which probably comes from the fact that it actually is one.

Where to Eat: Cuisine is what Cáceres does best, and ​ ​Restaurant Javier Martin offers up a sterling tasting menu from one of the freshest and most exciting new chefs in town.

What to Do: Take a walk around the Old Town. In addition to being unspeakably beautiful, the area is home to market stalls and boutique shops selling all the sweets, wines, liqueurs, and street food a traveler could ever want.

How to go to Europe -- just for the weekend -- from the East Coast

Andrea M. Rotondo

Update: Some offers mentioned below are no longer available. View the current offers here .

Time is a resource you can't make more of, and sometimes you have to make the most of what you have. If you live on the East Coast and only have a weekend to work with, can you squeeze in a quick trip to Europe using your points and miles?

That's the question that TPG reader Ryan recently asked. So Ryan, this one's for you.

Here's how to make that weekend trip to Europe -- including tips for what airlines to fly, which hotels to book and the key sights to see in three of our favorite European cities.

Let's start by stating the obvious. These weekend adventures will be really short, whirlwind trips! If you have more time than just a weekend, take it so you can explore more of a city.

Nonstop flights will be essential to making the most of the weekend, so we'll assume you value time over the cheapest flight option.

You'll depart on a Friday (the earlier, the better), arrive at your destination as early as possible on Saturday morning (or late Friday night if you leave the U.S. on Friday morning) and depart as late as possible on Sunday. At best, you're going to have 30 to 40 hours on the ground.

London's skyline. (Photo by TangMan Photography/Getty Images)

Note, too, that trips such as these have the potential -- especially in the winter months or during thunderstorms -- to become a "trip in vain." That's when a weather, mechanical, operational or other delay happens on your outbound flight, making the rest of the trip unrealistic (i.e., your rescheduled outbound flight would arrive in Europe after your return flight is scheduled to depart).

To be on the safe side, consider buying trip insurance ; here are some providers and policies to consider. Or, decide to rely on credit card protections .

For these quick jaunts, we recommend Paris, London or Lisbon due to the number of nonstop flights to these cities that clock in between 7.5 and 8.5 hours. They are also three of Europe's most compelling destinations.

Related: The best ways to get to Europe using miles and points

Europe for the weekend flight basics

Watch for cash deals.

Recently, we've seen some terrific fares to Europe from the East Coast. Try $259 round-trip from JFK, Newark or Los Angeles to London and Paris , $232 round-trip from East Coast cities to London, Paris, Rome, Barcelona, Madrid and Brussels or $258 round-trip from Newark to Paris . We've also seen $1,000 round-trip fares in business class on La Compagnie . So, you may want to save your miles and points and just pay cash if a deal becomes available.

Also, look to low-cost carriers like Norwegian, French Bee (starting flights from Newark in June 2020) and LEVEL to see if paying cash makes more sense than using loyalty currency. (Of course, if you are going to pay cash, book an airline where you earn frequent flyer miles -- unless you can snag a deal that's so good, it doesn't matter if you forgo a miles-earning opportunity).

is a 5 day trip to europe worth it

Pay with points

Watch for saver award availability or flash sales, like those from Delta with round-trip flights to Europe for as low as 22,000 SkyMiles -- even on some nonstop routes. (Remember, you need that nonstop flight for a quick trip.)

Boston (BOS) to London (LHR) for 22,000 Delta SkyMiles + $177 in taxes and fees round-trip in economy.

FlyingBlue (Air France/KLM) has similar promotions , with recent Europe one-way awards going for 10,750 miles for economy and 39,750 miles for business class.

If you don't have enough frequent flyer miles, you can transfer points to top off your account. If you have American Express Membership Rewards points , Chase Ultimate Rewards points , Capital One miles or Citi ThankYou points , you can transfer them to the following airlines and then make an award reservation. Be sure the flights you want have availability before you transfer your points to your frequent flyer account. Use a service like ExpertFlyer (owned by TPG parent company Red Ventures) to help you search for award availability.

Broaden your flight choices with partner airlines

Remember that if you have miles or points with one airline, you can use them to book an award on a partner airline. There are three alliances -- Oneworld, SkyTeam and Star Alliance -- as well as some individual partnerships that will help you get to Paris, London and Lisbon.

Related: Your guide to airline partners and award charts

Beware of fees on British Airways and Virgin Atlantic

British Airways can tack on some hefty taxes and fuel surcharges on top of the cash or points required for some award redemptions to Europe. If you must use Avios, price out the award flights completely before deciding if they are a good deal, or look at one of BA's partners like Iberia where some fees are less expensive.

Since American and British Airways are both part of OneWorld, searching award availability on American's website or app will return a lot of BA options that you should rule out. That being said, American does have some of its own metal flights, so definitely check availability and you could luck out.

Virgin Atlantic falls into a similar bucket as British Airways. It can charge higher fees on its award flights than if you booked with Delta SkyMiles (the airlines have a partnership), so just be sure to compare apples to apples.

British Airways (Photo by Nicolas Economou/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

Consider one-way bookings

It will be important that you select flight pairs that allow for the most time at your destination. You may need to book on one airline one direction and another on the way home. Just know that may increase the price in some situations, so price it out.

Travel in a premium cabin, if possible

You don't have a lot of time on the ground in Europe so you want to arrive as rested as possible. Try to book premium economy, business or first class -- at least on your flight headed to Europe. It's often easier to sleep when you have more room to spread out. You will not have time to nap away that first day.

Save time at the outbound airport

Now's the time to make sure you've got TSA PreCheck or CLEAR or anything else that can help speed you through security and shave off a bit of wait time at the outbound airport. You do not want to miss your outbound flight when every minute counts.

United has added Clear checkpoints throughout the U.S., including here at Newark's Terminal C. (Photo by Zach Honig/The Points Guy)

Related: Best credit cards for Global Entry and TSA PreCheck

Europe for the weekend hotel basics

Use programs and status for early check-in and late checkout.

Since time will be of the essence, consider booking hotels where you can possibly check in late or have guaranteed late checkout. For example, if you book a hotel through American Express' Fine Hotels & Resorts program , you can request early check-in (at noon) and you'll get it when available. Late checkout at 4 p.m. is guaranteed.

Certain levels of elite status in different hotel loyalty programs also confer late checkout. For example, Marriott Bonvoy Platinum, Titanium and Ambassador Elite members get guaranteed 4 p.m. late checkout at most properties with a few exceptions (though Silver and Gold elites can also request it based on availability). World of Hyatt has similar terms, with Discoverists and Explorists getting 2 p.m. late checkout, upon request and pending availability, while Globalists get the checkout time extended to 4 p.m.

Use a free night certificate at the hotel

A weekend trip like this is the perfect time to use a free night certificate, the type you earn on the anniversary of certain cobranded hotel credit cards. Here are some credit cards that come with an annual free night . In Paris, Lisbon and London, you'll want to focus on:

  • World of Hyatt Credit Card: Earn one Category 1–4 free night certificate on your card anniversary.
  • IHG Rewards Premier Credit Card: You'll earn an Anniversary Free Night certificate on your card anniversary that you can use at any hotel that costs 40k points or less per night.
  • The following Hilton credit cards offer a Free Weekend Night Award (some are conferred on your card anniversary while other certificates are delivered at account start): Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card, Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card or the Hilton Honors American Express Business Card. You can use this award at nearly any Hilton hotel with these exceptions .
  • Get an up to 35k Marriott free night certificate on your card renewal month with the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card or Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card.
  • Get an up to 50k Marriott free night certificate each year after your card renewal month with the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card valid at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy program (certain hotels have resort fees).

The information for the Hilton Aspire Amex card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

OK. Are you ready to plan your European express vacation? Let's get started.

How to spend a weekend in Paris

is a 5 day trip to europe worth it

You've probably heard that Paris is beautiful in the spring. But the rest of the year isn't too shabby, either. Even winter in Paris can be wonderful. The only time I try to avoid is late August, when many restaurants and shops close for summer vacation. Here's a list of the things you should do on your first trip to Paris and what to eat while you're there.

Related: The best ways to get to Paris using miles and points

Flights to Paris

You've got a lot of nonstop flights to choose from for your weekend getaway to Paris. Here are some of the gateways and airlines that can get you to the City of Lights:

  • Boston (BOS) to Paris (CDG) -- Air France , Delta and Norwegian Air Shuttle
  • From Newark (EWR) to CDG -- United Airlines
  • From Newark (EWR) to ORY -- La Compagnie
  • From New York (JFK) to CDG -- Air France , American Airlines, Delta and Norwegian Air Shuttle
  • From New York (JFK) to ORY -- Air France
  • *From Philadelphia (PHL) to CDG -- American Airlines
  • From Washington, D.C. (IAD) to CDG -- Air France and Delta

Use Google Flights or a tool like ExpertFlyer to search for all the nonstop flights out of the airport of your choice. If you haven't used Google Flights before, here's how to find cheap flights and how to become an advanced user .

is a 5 day trip to europe worth it

Here's an example of a good long weekend routing to Paris:

  • On Friday: Depart New York JFK on Air France flight 23 at 4:40 p.m. and arrive in Paris (CDG) at 5:50 a.m. on Saturday morning
  • On Monday: Depart CDG on Air France Flight 8 at 7:20 p.m. and arrive back at JFK at 9:55 p.m
  • Duration: That gives you 61.5 hours in Paris from touchdown to wheels up.

You can book Air France flights with Flying Blue miles or Delta SkyMiles. Both programs have dynamic award charts, so we can't tell you exactly how many miles you'll spend, but we've seen round-trip economy tickets via these programs for as low as 22,000 miles. You can transfer Chase Ultimate Rewards points to FlyingBlue and American Express Membership Rewards points to Flying Blue and Delta. All transfers are at a 1:1 basis.

Where to stay in Paris

You will be spoiled for choice when it comes to points hotels in Paris . Families should consider hotels that accommodate four people , which isn't all that common in Europe with strict occupancy restrictions . (We also don't usually recommend a weekend trip for little ones.)

Hotel Banke Opera, a Marriott property (Photo courtesy of Marriott)

You can take a few different approaches to your hotel selection. Since you'll only be in town for a short time, you could simply pick the best deal on cash or points, or a hotel in a location that's closest to the sights you most want to see.

We've split that difference here and are recommending well-located hotels that are available for a reasonable number of points, or ones where you can use free night certificates. Spending certificates in Paris can be a terrific value.

For location, it's tough to beat World of Hyatt's Hotel du Louvre (from 25k points) in the 1st arrondissement, just steps from the Louvre.

is a 5 day trip to europe worth it

For value and location, use your Anniversary Free Night at the Holiday Inn Paris – St. Germain des Pres (from 35k points) near Notre Dame in the 6th, the Holiday Inn Paris - Elysees (from 40k points) for the Champs-Elysees and Madeleine neighborhoods in the 8th or the Holiday Inn Paris Opera - Grand Blvds (from 35k points) near Opera Garnier in the 9th arrondissement. For hotels that are more upscale than Holiday Inns, try Hilton Paris Opera (66k–80k points) and Maison Astor (71k–80k) both in the 8th arrondissement, where you can use your free Hilton Weekend Night Award.

Marriott loyalists can look into the Paris Marriott Champs Elysees Hotel (Category 7, from 60k points -- though you can use your Marriott up to 50k free night certificate that you earned with the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card when off-peak rates are 50k points per night). There are also these Category 6 properties: Paris Marriott Opera Ambassador Hotel and Hotel Banke Opera, Autograph Collection where you can use your 50k free night certificate on standard dates or spend from 40k points on off-peak dates.

is a 5 day trip to europe worth it

Paris must-sees

If you don't have time to go inside the Louvre, at least walk by and take in the gorgeous views. (Photo by Roman Slavik/Getty Images)

There is too much to see and do in Paris to ever think you'll do it all in a weekend. But you should definitely see the iconic postcard sights of the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Notre Dame, Grand Palais, Opera Garnier and Sacre-Coeur. A Big Bus Paris hop-on hop-off sightseeing tour can take you to all of those places. Or just map out a path from your hotel using foot power, the Metro and Uber ride-shares or taxi services. On your tour, make time to stroll through the gardens of the Jardin du Luxembourg and Jardin de Tuileries, and window shop along the Champs-Elysees.

Take the time to sit at an outdoor table at a sidewalk cafe and watch Parisians and visitors go about their daily lives. Les Deux Magots , a traditional brasserie since 1885 in Saint-Germain des Pres, is one of the most famous cafes in all of Paris -- but you can pick any spot you like.

It's a shame to come all the way to Paris and not go inside the Louvre, but you might not have time in your schedule. If you feel it's a must-see, buy tickets in advance so you can skip the long lines at the box office and go right to the security line instead. Even if you don't go inside the museum, definitely enjoy the courtyard atmosphere and take in the unique pyramid-style architecture of the entrance.

Here's some more Paris advice:

  • 3 ways to do Paris on points
  • 15 things to do on your first trip to Paris
  • 8 mistakes travelers often make during their first trip to Paris

How to spend a weekend in Lisbon

You'll get your steps in when exploring Lisbon, Portugal. (Photo by Sean3810/Getty Images)

This summer it seemed as if every TPG staffer and contributor was on the way to Portugal . It's just about a perfect destination if you're starting out from the East Coast, since it's not all that far away. Nonstop flights from New York, for example, are just about seven hours.

Once in Lisbon, you'll love wandering the historic neighborhoods, dining on Mediterranean cuisine (much of it seafood-based), visiting world-class museums and visiting a nightclub to listen to Portugal's distinctive Fado music.

Flights to Lisbon

There are a variety of airlines flying from the East Coast to Lisbon. Here are your main choices.

  • Boston (BOS) to LIS -- Delta, TAP Air Portugal
  • From Newark (EWR) to LIS -- TAP Air Portugal and United
  • From New York (JFK) to LIS -- Delta, TAP Air Portugal
  • From Washington, D.C. (IAD) to LIS -- TAP Air Portugal and United

I didn't come across any fantastic cash deals to Lisbon in my searches but that doesn't mean you won't for your dates. TPG has seen round-trip cash rates from $418 to $465 per person in the past. Also watch for flash sales from TAP Air Portugal .

If you can't find a deal using dollars, rely on your miles. Here's an example of a long-weekend award itinerary on United Airlines flights using United MileagePlus miles. In this case, the outbound flight was 30,000 miles plus taxes and fees per person, and the return was 45,000 miles plus taxes and fees.

is a 5 day trip to europe worth it

To get the most hours out of your stay, here's an example routing from the NYC area:

  • On Friday: Depart Newark (EWR) on TAP Air Portugal flight 202 at 6:05 p.m. and arrive in Lisbon at 5:45 a.m. on Saturday morning
  • On Monday: Depart LIS on TAP Air Portugal flight 209 at 5 p.m. and arrive back at JFK at 8 p.m
  • Duration: That gives you 59 hours and 15 minutes in Lisbon from touchdown to wheels up.

Use your free night certificates in Lisbon

You've got some excellent points hotel choices in Lisbon, and you can use your free night certificates, earned from various cobranded credit cards, at some of the best properties in the city. Use your World of Hyatt Category 1–4 free night certificate at the Hotel Da Estrela (or, from 15k points per night) in the Estrela neighborhood near the Museu Joao de Deus.

If you've got a Hilton Weekend Night Reward certificate, book the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Lisbon – Fontana Park (or, from 28k to 50k points per night).

Stay at the InterContinental Lisbon with an IHG Anniversary Free Night or 40k points.

Marriott 35k free night certificates can be used at Altis Belem Hotel & Spa , Lisbon, a Member of Design Hotels; Lisbon Marriott Hotel ; Memmo Principe Real , Lisbon (a Member of Design Hotels); and the Sheraton Lisboa Hotel & Spa . If you've got a 50k certificate, book the Fontecruz Lisboa, Autograph Collection .

Learn more about Marriott's free night certificates:

  • Step-by-step: Using a Marriott Bonvoy 35,000-point certificate
  • Using a free-night certificate at Category 7 Marriott properties
  • Great uses of Marriott Bonvoy 35,000-point free night certificates
  • 13 ways to redeem the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant 50k free night award

What to see in Lisbon

Lisbon is the capital of Portugal, with nearly a half-million residents. There's plenty to explore here, including the Portuguese Riviera that stretches along the Atlantic coast.

History and architecture buffs should head for the religious sites of Lisbon Cathedral, built in 1147, and the Monastery of St. Jerome, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Another UNESCO site worth seeking out is nearby Belem Tower, a fort and city gateway that dates to the 16th century. And, at St. George's Castle, you'll see just how far back history stretches in Lisbon. Fortifications here were built in the 1st century.

A visit to Lisbon has to include a ride on the Santa Justa Elevator on Rua de Santa Justa in the historic district, which connects the lower Baxia neighborhood with Largo do Carmo above it. There's a viewing platform at the top where you can snap some great pictures of the city below.

Here's some more advice about Lisbon:

  • Traveling to Portugal: 7 things to know before you go
  • Why the Lisbon coast Is Europe's next hot spot
  • Why every family you know is flying to Portugal -- and why you should, too

How to spend a weekend in London

Don't miss London's Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. (Photo Courtesy of Getty Images)

London is a fantastic place to visit, but there are two downsides for frequent flyers. No. 1: British Airways all but owns this market (along with Virgin Atlantic), but both add hefty fees and surcharges to award tickets, especially in premium cabins, which makes using points/miles less appealing.

The taxes and fees for two economy award tickets on a round-trip British Airways itinerary from JFK to LHR is $700 in addition to the 52,000 Avios points.

A similar round-trip itinerary for two people in economy class on American Airlines from PHL to LHR will cost more miles -- 120,000 -- but only $355.86 in taxes and fees.

is a 5 day trip to europe worth it

The other issue is that the UK levies an Air Passenger Duty fee in addition to a Passenger Service Charge.

So, while we're listing British Airways and Virgin Atlantic from the following U.S. gateways, you may not want to book them if you're using points or miles. You'll pay less in fees if you instead book a flight on American Airlines or another airline that doesn't charge fuel surcharges . If you're looking to book on Virgin Atlantic, price the award out with your Delta SkyMiles to see if the fees are cheaper.

Related: Using points and miles to get to London

Flights to London

  • From Boston (BOS) to LHR -- American Airlines (beginning March 29, 2020), British Airways, Delta, Virgin Atlantic
  • From Boston (BOS) to LGW -- Norwegian Air UK, Delta (beginning May 22, 2020)
  • From Baltimore (BWI) to LHR -- British Airways
  • From Newark (EWR) to LHR -- British Airways, United, Virgin Atlantic
  • From New York (JFK) to LHR -- American, British Airways, Delta, Virgin Atlantic
  • From New York (JFK) to LGW -- British Airways, Norwegian Air UK, Virgin Atlantic (Virgin starts this route on May 21, 2020)
  • From Philadelphia (PHL) to LHR -- Aer Lingus, American Airlines, British Airways
  • From Washington, D.C. (IAD) to LHR -- British Airways, United, Virgin Atlantic

If you want to fly on Virgin Atlantic on miles, you might be better off booking using Delta SkyMiles. See the below round-trip itinerary from Washington Dullest to London on Virgin using your SkyMiles. Notice how the fees for two people are just $360.86.

is a 5 day trip to europe worth it

Now, here are those same flight pairs using Virgin Atlantic Flying Club miles. Note how the fees for two people jump to $935.26, though you do spend 20k fewer miles.

is a 5 day trip to europe worth it

An example routing that gives you as much time in London as possible over a weekend is:

  • On Friday: Depart Washington, D.C. (IAD) on United flight 122 at 8:20 a.m. and arrive in London (LHR) on the same day at 8:50 p.m.
  • On Monday: Depart LHR on United flight 925 at 4:20 p.m. and arrive back at IAD at 7:45 p.m (same day)
  • Duration: That gives you 71 hours and 55 minutes in London from touchdown to wheels up.

Where to stay in London

London is home to many points hotels where you can use a free night certificate. Here are some good candidates:

Related: Using points and miles to stay in London

Hilton Honors: If you're a first-time visitor to London and plan to hit the main tourist sights like Tower Bridge, Tower of London, Shakespeare's Globe Theatre and Tate Modern, the Hilton London Tower Bridge (42k–70k points per night) is a fantastic location. Another great home base is Mayfair, where you'll find the London Hilton on Park Lane (66k–80k points), near Buckingham Palace, Knightsbridge and Bond Street.

IHG: You have a few good choices like Staybridge Suites London – Vauxhall ; the Holiday Inn Express locations in Southwark , Victoria , London - City and Earl's Court ; or the Holiday Inns at Oxford Circus or Kensington High St. But, I'd probably go for either the Crowne Plaza London - Kings Cross or Hotel Indigo London – Kensington . All of these IHG properties are available from 40k points or a free night certificate.

Marriott: If you want to stay in one of the city's fanciest hotels, visit when you can snag a Marriott Category 7 hotel as an off-peak award redemption at 50,000 points per night. When those hotels are redeemable for 50k points, you can also use your 50k free night certificate. Here are some excellent Category 7 options and here's how to use a free-night certificate :

  • W London – Leicester Square
  • Le Meridien Piccadilly
  • The Westbury Mayfair, a Luxury Collection Hotel
  • The London EDITION
  • JW Marriott Grosvenor House London
  • The Park Tower Knightsbridge, a Luxury Collection Hotel
  • Blakes Hotel London, a Member of Design Hotels

is a 5 day trip to europe worth it

Top London sights

Even if you're only in London for a day or two, try to visit some of the iconic sights like Tower Bridge and the Tower of London, Shakespeare's Globe Theatre and Westminster Abbey. Other top spots are St. Paul's Cathedral, Windsor Castle, Kensington Palace, Kew Gardens, the West End, London Eye and Piccadilly Circus.

If you enjoy the art of afternoon tea, make time for a reservation at an iconic spot like Claridge's, The Dorchester, The Savoy or The Lanesborough.

Here's some more advice about London

  • These are the best times to visit London
  • The best way to get from Heathrow Airport to London
  • How to spend a Sunday in London

Advice for quick trips

The approach you take to sightseeing a city in 24 to 48 hours is very different than if you have an entire week to play with. Here are some tips for quick trips.

Research the best ground transfer methods

Wherever you choose to visit, research the best transit options from the airport into the city center. Certain modes of transportation make more sense at different times of the day, so do your research and pick the quickest option.

Hop-on hop-off buses

When you've got limited time to see a new city, these hop-on hop-off sightseeing buses can be a terrific tool. Discount coupons/codes are often available at the tour operator's website, the local visitors bureau office or on the printed maps hotel concierges distribute to guests. You can usually buy one or more days of unlimited access to the bus that travels a set route (or routes). There is often informative commentary (live or via recording on audio headsets). You can get off or on the bus at any stop on its route.

Skip-the-line tickets

If you plan to visit a tourist hot spot, like the Louvre, be sure to buy tickets in advance. Sometimes, this is the only way to avoid long lines at the box office or even gain entry at all, since some museums reach capacity during high seasons. (Hint: The best time to visit the Louvre is at night. )

Private guides

Don't discount the idea of hiring a private guide. If you have a very specific wish list of what you want to see in a very little time, a knowledgeable guide can help make it happen. He or she knows the city inside and out and can create an itinerary to make the most of your time and suggest sights based on your particular preferences. Search the internet for guide options, ask your traveling friends and family, or inquire at the TPG Lounge Facebook group . Also look to sites like Viator, where private guides and tour operators promote their offerings.

While we love trying restaurants in every new city we visit, we recommend that you avoid sit-down dining experiences unless they are of the most casual sort or are an experience by themselves. Just don't waste 90 minutes eating somewhere if the only goal is to fuel up. Focus on grab-and-go snacks from a local market or shop, fast food, a diner or sidewalk cafe where service may be relatively quick.

Finally, this will be a fast-paced weekend. Life is bound to get in the way at some point. You could get in a traffic jam from the airport into the city center, public transit workers could be on strike, a sight you really wanted to see may be closed for renovation, etc. When a roadblock presents itself, do your best to take it in stride. Don't stress out, just move on to the next item on your itinerary. This will be an adventure, no matter what happens!

Bottom line

Have you visited a European city from the East Coast for just a weekend? How did it go? Would you do it again? Tell us about it in the comments.

Happy to Wander

Honest Eurail Pass Review: Is It Worth It?

Last Updated: October 25, 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.

is a 5 day trip to europe worth it

If you’re looking for an honest Eurail pass review, this one’s for you my friends!

One of the biggest questions that first-time visitors to Europe have is whether or not buying a rail pass is worth it.

This was one of my big questions too during my first backpacking trip 5 years ago – after all, many of us grow up with this whole backpacking Europe by train thing ingrained in our heads as THE rite of passage for eager wanaderlusters…

But the more I dug into research, the more I realized the multitude of ways you can get around Europe … not necessarily with a rail pass.

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is a 5 day trip to europe worth it

So, is the Eurail Pass worth it? Does it actually save you any money? After using a Eurail pass twice (once sponsored by ACP Rail and once paid on my own dime), I consider myself a bit of an obsessive Eurail expert. The very annoying and vague answer is it depends on your specific set of needs.

So, in this post, I’ll be going over the many considerations you should make to decide whether a Eurail pass is right for you, along with a free quiz to help you decide as well!

NOTE: I’m talking primarily about the Eurail pass today, which is a rail pass for non European residents. That said, all the information below should apply for the Interrail pass too (which is a very similar pass but for European residents).

Short on Time? Take This Eurail Quiz to Help You Decide!

If you’re really on the fence about whether or not to buy a Eurail pass , I’ve created a quiz based on the info shared below that might help you decide whether or not a Eurail Pass makes sense in your particular case. Answer these questions below and it’ll give you a recommendation:

How to Find the Best Deals on Eurail Passes

One thing I’ve noticed over the years is that Eurail tends to run special sales during specific times, so the best way to ensure you get great value from your pass is of course by buying during a sale!

One big event to look out for is the Eurail Black Friday sale (their biggest of the year). They do run other sales quite randomly throughout the year though, especially during the off-season, so click here to see if any sales are on right now.

5 Considerations to Make When Deciding if a Eurail Pass is Worth it for You

Whether or not a Eurail pass is worth it for your trip depends on a variety of factors, so to help you decide, here are some key considerations you need to ask yourself before buying.

Consideration #1: What is Your Travel Priority?

Everybody prioritizes different things when they travel. For instance, while once upon a time, staying under budget was of utmost importance for me, these days I’m more inclined to pay extra for comfort, convenience, and being as far away from loud youths as humanly possible.

So, the first thing that you need to ask yourself when considering whether a Eurail Pass is worth it is what your #1 priority actually is.

If your travel priority is budget-friendliness…

If your travel priority is budget-friendliness, honestly, there are cheaper ways to travel around Europe than using a Eurail pass. Click here for my roundup explaining different methods.

Specifically when it comes to train travel, most of the time, booking point to point tickets in advance is really going to be much cheaper than using a pass, especially if you take advantage of low fares that are booked well in advance and/or regional ticket deals, youth discounts, etc.

Of course, booking point to point tickets comes with a major downside, which is that they tend to be inflexible and locked to a certain date and time, leaving no wiggle room at all in terms of travel dates.

This is usually fine if you’re an organized traveler who likes to book everything like accommodation well in advance, but if you’re hoping for a more spontaneous trip where you can hop on a train and go, point to point tickets won’t lend themselves too well to this travel style.

EXAMPLE: Booked well in advance, German train tickets can be as cheap as 19.90 one way, even for high speed and long distance routes. This is why whenever I have a trip where I know when I’m going and where I’m staying, I’ll usually book these in advance and pay no more than 50 euros roundtrip. In most cases, this works out to be cheaper than buying a Eurail pass for the same trip.

is a 5 day trip to europe worth it

If your travel priority is flexibility…

If you’ll be prioritizing flexibility during your trip however, then a Eurail pass is a great choice.

A wonderful thing about using a Eurail pass is (with a few exceptions where reservations are mandatory), you can usually just hop onto the train with your rail pass and take any journey that you want. This is really, really great if you have a more spontaneous travel style or if you just want more flexibility when it comes to your travel plans.

EXAMPLE: This past spring, I used my Eurail pass to visit some of Europe’s most amazing spring destinations (i.e. those that had pretty flowers blooming like the Netherlands) .

Because blooming season varies year to year, I couldn’t exactly book my tickets in advance. So instead of booking a trip in advance and hoping for the best, what I did instead was I just stalked blooming conditions/Instagram and waited for conditions to be optimal before grabbing my pass and just going.

In these cases, if I had purchased tickets on the day of, that would have been upwards of 100 euros per ticket, but because of the pass I was able to just go whenever the flowers commanded for about 30 euros per travel day, and it was perfect!

is a 5 day trip to europe worth it

If your travel priority is comfort/convenience…

And lastly, if you really value comfort and convenience when you travel, then a Eurail pass may be a good choice for you.

That’s because train travel is hands down one of the most comfortable ways to travel around Europe – you get way more leg room than a bus (and much nicer bathrooms), plus the journeys tend to be substantially more scenic and enjoyable than flights.

Another key factor to consider is that train stations tend to be in the center of cities rather than the outskirts like most airports, which means travelling by train can save you lots of time and money in that regard too.

Because of all those factors, I do think that train travel makes sense if your priority is comfort and convenience, and using a Eurail pass can help you save quite a bit of money.

Consideration #2: Which Eurail Pass Are You Buying?

Another key consideration is which Eurail pass you intend to buy. Eurail newbies often get confused because there are a few different kinds of passes that you can buy, in spite of the fact that the term “Eurail pass” gets tossed around as one single entity all the time. The value that you’re able to extract from your pass depends a lot on which one you buy, so here is a quick overview of the different ones and the instances that they’re good for.

Eurail One Country Pass vs. Eurail Global Pass

The first distinction that you need to make is in terms of the geographical area that your pass covers.

This is actually pretty easy now because Eurail recently rehauled their entire system and nowadays you can only purchase either a one country pass or a global pass .

The one country pass is fairly straightforward: you purchase one pass and it’s valid for that one country only.

On the other hand, with the global pass, you actually gain access to the entire Eurail network, which is 31 countries.

In my personal opinion, a one country pass is very rarely worth it just because they’re tremendously expensive and it’s hard for you to get your money’s worth. On the other hand, a global pass can be worth it depending on where you go and how far apart your different stops are.

For instance, I would say if you are traveling really far distances, then it might make more sense to actually buy just a flight because time is money and you don’t want to be spending 12 hours on a train, when you could be spending 12 hours eating spaghetti. BUT I do think it can be really, really worth it if you plan a bunch of different legs that are only within a few hours of each other.

EXAMPLE: I used my Global Pass a lot going from Germany to Switzerland and because they’re neighbours, none of my train rides were ever more than a few hours so it made sense to do these journeys by train rather than fly. In addition to that, these countries tend to be quite pricey for trains, so I was really able to get my money’s worth using the pass.

is a 5 day trip to europe worth it

Eurail Continuous Pass vs. Eurail Flex Pass

The second distinction that you need to make with your Eurail pass is in terms of the validity period and the number of travel days that you get…

There are two kinds of passes that you can purchase, the first of which is the continuous pass. With it, you purchase a ticket for a set period of time and then every day of that period you can ride a train and your pass is valid. For example, if you get a Eurail continuous pass for two months, then you can take the train every single day of those two months and it’s all included in your pass.

On the other hand, you have the flex pass. With it, you get a set number of days to travel in a time period ranging from one to two months. For example, if you get a Eurail Flex Pass with 10 travel days in two months, then within a two month period, you get 10 days during which you can use the pass and ride as many trains as you want during that day.

I’ll be honest, the continuous pass is very rarely worth it unless you’re going to be traveling every one or two days. On the other hand, I really do recommend a Flex Pass if you’re going to be buying a Eurail Pass. This is the option I’ve always gone for and I find it’s better suited for trips where you’ll be travelling a bit slower, spending more than 1 or 2 days in one destination.

Consideration #3: Which countries do you plan to visit with your Eurail Pass?

The next important question you need to ask yourself is which countries you intend to visit.

The honest truth is with Eurail, there are certain countries that are much better for the pass than others.

Countries Where I Don’t Think a Eurail Pass is Worth It

For instance, there are countries that have a lot of mandatory reservation fees like France, Italy, and Portugal. Taking high speed trains in all of these countries require additional reservation fees, which really racks up costs. In the case of Portugal, you can’t even make reservations online, only in person, which (speaking from personal experience) is mindbogglingly inconvenient. In addition to that, most of the time point to point tickets in these countries aren’t that expensive, so your savings with the pass wouldn’t actually be that significant anyway.

There are also certain countries where bus travel is a lot more common than train travel and for that reason, I would really avoid getting a rail pass for countries in Eastern Europe and the Balkans.

Countries Where I Think a Eurail Pass is Worth It

On the flip side, some countries really do offer amazing value with a Eurail pass.

In my opinion, Germany, Switzerland, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom are great countries for the Eurail pass because a) they tend to have very expensive point to point tickets and b) they largely don’t require mandatory reservations. These two factors combined mean you’re likely to save a lot of money with a Eurail pass.

EXAMPLE: I used my Eurail pass a lot in Switzerland where trains are notoriously expensive and I actually used them on a lot of scenic sightseeing trains like the Glacier Express and Bernina Express, which saved me hundreds of euros compared to full price!

The Final Word on Whether Eurail is Worth it for Your Destinations

When in doubt, checking if Eurail is worth it for your countries is easy – just search the prices for point-to-point tickets in the countries that you’re visiting and also add up potential costs like reservation fees in order to figure out whether or not a Eurail pass actually makes sense for your trip.

is a 5 day trip to europe worth it

Consideration #4: How Old Are You?

Another consideration is your age, because Eurail offers really really fantastic discounts for both youth and senior passengers.

A youth pass is meant for those who are 27 or younger, and tends to be about 20% cheaper than the adult pass, which is for adults age 28 to 60.

A senior pass is meant for those aged 60+. Unfortunately, the discount is not as good as the youth pass, with savings clocking in at about 10% but it’s still better than paying full price!

So, if you want to consider getting a Eurail pass, know that the deal is a lot sweeter if you’re 27 years old and under or 60+.

Consideration #5: Will You Be Using the Other Perks of Your Eurail Pass?

Last but not least, a final thing to consider is whether or not you’ll be using the additional perks of your Eurail pass.

It’s a little known benefit of the Eurail pass that you can use it to score discounts at a variety of spots around Europe, primarily hostels, city cards, and tours.

If you intend to make use of these discounts, that makes the Eurail pass a lot more worth it. So, what I would do if I were you is I would actually look at the different countries that you’re going to be exploring and check the Eurail website to see what those additional perks are. Depending on your travel style, if you decide to use a lot of these perks, that would make the pass super, super worth it.

For me personally, I didn’t actually use the perks very much apart from one time on a special train in Switzerland where it saved me 25% off… but that did save me 10 euros so as you can see, you can extract a lot of additional value from your pass if you use the perks often!

Is a Eurail Pass Worth It? The Final Word

So, as you know by now, there are a lot of factors that go into whether or not a Eurail pass is worth it.

To sum up everything I’ve explained above, I do think that Eurail passes ARE worth it if you meet the following requirements:

You value flexibility, spontaneity and comfort over budget

You are travelling extensively around countries like Germany, Switzerland and the UK where trains are normally very expensive, and where reservation fees don’t tend to be mandatory

You are under the age of 27 or over the age of 60, and eligible for additional discounts

You intend to make use of the Eurail Pass’ additional perks, like hostel and attraction discounts

On the other hand, I do not think the Eurail pass is a good idea for you if you meet the following requirements:

You are looking for the cheapest possible way to travel around Europe

You will be travelling a lot in the following countries: France, Italy, Portugal and Eastern European countries/the Balkans like Albania, Montenegro, Bulgaria, Romania, Kosovo, North Macedonia, etc.

You are a very organized traveller and intend to book all your accommodation/activities in advance

You do not qualify for additional discounts (e.g. you would pay full adult fare for those aged 28-59)

You won’t really be using any of Eurail’s additional perks/discounts

Any more questions about the Eurail Pass?

Let me know in the comments below! I hope you enjoyed this honest Eurail review and that it helped you decide whether or not a Eurail pass is worth it for your trip. If you do decide to buy one, I’d love if you could use my affiliate link here at no additional cost to you! This gives me a small commission, but costs you nothing extra. Thanks in advance, and I hope you have an amazing trip!

is a 5 day trip to europe worth it

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16 thoughts on “Honest Eurail Pass Review: Is It Worth It?”

Buyer be very aware of this pass. Even if it might save money, you have 100% responsibility if they mess up, according to them. I bought the 7 day global, their system booked me or planned me on multiple trains that never existed, including giving me a seat number for one. Their response is to use fine print and state that you are responsible for confirming their information with individual train companies. So you might as well book directly with the companies, because they have zero responsibility in their eyes when they lie to you. I was saddened to find that only 1 out of my 6 trips went to plan (should have been 5 or 7 but their errors led to an extra day being needed and then I needed to literally change my flight to ensure I’d get home). I would never use this product again, personally. They even pretended they couldn’t confirm one wrong train they had in their system, and actually deleted an entire itinerary that I thankfully screenshotted after the fact.

I implore you to make sure you want to risk it as a traveller, because no one should be stuck in places because of things they paid extra for.

June 11, 2022 we finally get into venice. We had trouble with the train. We had eurail first class passes and we paid for reservations online with eurorail pass numbers and printed tickets. When we got to train we were told we had to show the app with linked trip or we would have to get off train. I told the guy i would need time to link it. He said i can’t link it after the fact. I told him that doesn’t make sense because we made reservations with the eurail passes. I told him i needed time to figure it out. He said that i dont have time because he was getting off next stop so we had to pay full price for all of us, $1500 for all of us. When he left i figured it out and i was able to link it. I called another ticket person to help and they said they couldn’t . We just had to file complaint. . This was the first hiccup in the whole trip , 16 days in our travels. In the end we didn’t think it was worth it to buy eurail passes with all these trouble (had to activate pass, then hadf to get reservations online and unbeknownst to us we had to link the trip to the app or we pay full price at train even if we had printed tickets). I think this rail company was just taking advantage of travelers. We immediately filed complaint at their station in venice and told our credit card company to nullify the charge. I went to explain to customer service that we actually paid for it the ticketsv3x and they said sorry had to link it to app. I was able to link and in all fairness we paid for tge services received they just want to sneakily make m9ney off unsuspecting travelers #eurailpass #for #foryou #foryourpage❤️ #eurail

Thank you for your point of view on Eurail passes. Helpful. After reading what you wrote, I almost surely will just buy point-to-point tickets for my trip (France, Italy, Austria, Germany). Your article helped me think about the important factors. Thanks and good luck to you! — tom

Your posts are very instructive, which I later learned a lot from. It was great I hope you get more new posts! I am one of your Permanent Visitors

I would add a little consideration: if you are traveling with kids eurail is free for them…

I’m preparing for a 2023 Sept/Oct trip. I have had nothing but trouble with my Global Pass. The app is horrible. The website doesn’t work. There are no trains that I can reserve, but reservations are required on all Spanish AVE trains. Total Catch-22. I had Eurail passes two times earlier in my life and they were fabulous. Not now. The company that has taken over Eurail has the absolute worst customer service — in other words, NO customer service. You literally cannot find a way to contact them. They have nothing but a chat bot, which is useless. Don’t do it! Do not buy Eurail passes!!!

for countries that do not require reservations… you basically can just show up and hop on the train for no fee? i am originating and ending in paris but i’d like to take trains to Belgium, Amsterdam, Luxemburg, Germany and Switzerland. I’m confused as to whether I need to book these or not (it sounds like i might have to book to and from Paris, which is fine) but perhaps not the rest.

ps i took the quiz and because we are looking to be spontaneous and our destinations, the result was for us that we should get the pass.

thank you for your help.

Hi Cindy, whether or not you need reservations depends not just on the country, but also on the type of train (regional ones usually don’t need reservations, but often long-distance/intercity ones might), so make sure you double check your specific route before you go! It can get really confusing haha. If you’re sure that reservations aren’t mandatory, then yes you can just hop on board and take any seat that’s free. Hope that helps!

Love your personality and Web-pages. Q: My wife (41) & I (61), [and maybe my step-daughter (20) are planning some touring of Europe for 2 weeks, before or after our 9-day cruise from Rome to London [29/04/25 – 08/05/25]. We live by San Francisco. We’re wondering if maybe cheaper to fly round-trip into the same city, either Rome, London, or ?, then “tour-travel-commute” between London & Rome, seeing the popular sites. Was thinking 2-weeks Eurail [or ?] from London to Rome. Inside advise?

Hi Guy, it honestly depends a lot on the flights themselves! The best way to know for sure (since your trip is still so far away) would be to hop on Google Flights and compare prices. On Google Flights, you can select ‘Multi-City’ from the options and then it’ll show you the price of tickets if you booked SF to Rome, then London to SF separately. Your trip is still so far away that you might not be able to look at your exact dates but if you choose some dates for next year it might give you a good idea of the cost difference. Google flights is free and you can use it here: https://www.google.com/travel/flights/

For me personally, unless the cost difference was huge, I’d probably choose the separate flights so I don’t have to travel back to Rome just to catch my flight home, but that’s up to you. Remember that time is money too and that extra time you spend commuting back could be spent exploring another new amazing place. Hope that helps! Safe travels 🙂

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Home » Europe » An Intro to Rail Passes in Europe Including Eurail Passes and More

An Intro to Rail Passes in Europe Including Eurail Passes and More

So you’re planning a European backpacking trip to countries like Spain, Portugal, and Germany and wondering, what is the best way to travel around Europe?

If you want to backpack Europe cheaply, you generally need to plan your travels in advance. This  complete guide to rail passes in Europe  will highlight everything you need to know about European railways. We’ll talk about the best ways to travel Europe by train and cover the ever-controversial subject of whether  Eurail passes  are worth your time.

Besides talking Eurail, I will also cover several other types of train passes in Europe, including point-to-point tickets, and regional passes.

Below I have mapped out everything you need to know about the Eurail Pass, discussed the different types of train tickets in Europe, and explained when it is advantageous to buy a train ticket versus sticking to flights or the road.

We’ve also included  a discount on Eurail Passes in this article!  Read on to claim it, my fellow broke backpackers.

Guide to Rail Passes in Europe

Types of eurail passes, how much does a eurail pass cost, types of train tickets in europe, how to buy train tickets in europe, essential information for railways by country, advantages of train travel in europe, disadvantages of train travel in europe, travel tips: trains & rail passes.

As an American, I am always thoroughly impressed by European public transportation. The railways are an extremely convenient (and fun) way to travel Europe. The vast network of rails connect even the smallest towns to one another (a luxury we don’t have in the US).

That said, it can be a bit confusing to decipher all of the different types of passes when planning a trip to Europe, and each country has different railway companies and regulations to abide… Plus, you might be wondering if you should even travel Europe by train and if the costs of Eurail Passes are really worth it.

That’s where this Europe rail guide comes in!

train travel in berlin europe

Let’s start with probably the most important question, what is a Eurail Pass , and how does it work? Below I have written a guide to on how to use these special European train passes.

What is a Eurail Pass? HINT: It’s a Train Pass for Non-EU Citizens

Okay, first things first, what is a Eurail pass versus a normal train ticket?

This is a railway pass that allows non-European residents to travel throughout Europe on the extensive rail network.

Firstly, you pay a one-time fee for your rail pass, which is delivered to your home address before your trip. This means you have to plan to buy a European rail pass in advance; this isn’t a last-minute purchase !

Tip: It is possible to have it delivered to an address while in Europe. I did it, but make sure it’s a trustworthy location. The pass isn’t cheap, and I actually had to hunt mine down at the DHL office in Madrid to get it in time!

How to Use the Eurail Pass

You can use a Eurail pass for your entire trip instead of buying individual tickets for each ride.

You pay per day, not per train:  Take 1 train or 5 trains a day, or travel 400km. With a rail pass, you can travel as much as you want on that day.

Flexibility: Travel whenever you want, wherever you want. No need to plan ahead! A rail pass in Europe offers unmatched freedom for multiple journeys (unless a reservation is required, which is necessary for most overnight and high-speed trains).

Reservation: Most trains do not require a reservation, but some will. You will only pay a small fee to travel onboard premium trains like the TGV , Eurostar , Thalys , TGV Lyria and more.

Hamburg Germany Train Station

A Eurail Pass is the  best option if you plan to use the train as your main source of transport and you want the ultimate flexibility to plan your trip as-you-go. The pass is best used to travel to neighboring countries; whereas, budget flights will make more sense from a time and money perspective if you are jetting across the European continent.

Point-to-point tickets can be cheaper than the railway pass when you buy them far in advance, but prices tend to skyrocket as the date gets closer. Flights, buses, and shared rides can be cheaper than the train. I will discuss when these options are best later in the guide.

Are the Eurail and InterRail the same Pass?

Only non-European residents can use a Eurail pass. The InterRail pass is for European/UK residents; it’s cheaper too! You can buy an InterRail pass if you have been living in Europe for the last 6 months.

train travel in italy is fun and cheap

Not all passes are created equal. There are a few options to choose from when you are buying a Eurail Pass.

Regional Pass

Not to be confused with a regional ticket, this is the type of pass that allows you to travel in 1 or 2 countries .

Want to know which countries you can visit with Eurail?  Download the official  Eurail Pass Map  from their website and start planning your trip. Just try not to go cross-eyed reading it.

Select Pass

For the Select Pass, you are limited to traveling between 3 , 4 , or 5 bordering countries. Some countries, like the Netherlands, Belgium, and Luxembourg are considered  1 country on the pass called “ Benelux. “

You can purchase a  3 Country Select Pass and travel between the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg (i.e. Benelex), France, and Germany. The more countries you choose, the more expensive the pass.

The Select Pass is only usable for 5 to 15 travel days in a two-month period . The more travel days you choose, the more expensive the pass gets.

Tip: Remember you can travel on multiple trains in one day, and it is still considered one trip.

Global Pass

This is generally the most expensive option, but it also grants you much more flexibility if you are planning to travel all over Europe. You can travel between the 28 participating Eurail countries on the Global Pass.

Right now, Broke Backpacker readers can receive a discount on Eurail Global Passes of either type when they use the code BBPKLOOK . Have a train station coffee on us!

Get 10$ USD off Europe Rail bookings

Continuous and Flexi Option

Flexi Pass: This pass gets you a certain amount of travel days between a 2-month period. The Global flexi pass is similar to the Select flexi Pass, the difference being the global pass isn’t limited to 3-5 countries. You will have a minimum of 10 travel days on the flexi Global pass i.e. 10 different train tickets.

Continuous pass:  This pass grants you unlimited travel between any Eurail participant country for 15 days to 3 months. The longer your pass is valid, the more expensive it is.

The continuous pass also provides the most flexibility. You never have to wonder if a train trip justifies using a “travel day” like the flexi pass. This is generally the most expensive option, and often times not worth the cost  unless   you plan to ride the train nearly daily.

Should you choose a continuous pass or flexi pass?

If you plan to spend at least 3 days at most of your destinations, the flexi pass definitely makes the most sense. I wouldn’t recommend the continuous pass unless you have money to blow.

is a 5 day trip to europe worth it

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Alright, so you decided to get a rail pass for Europe. What is it going to cost you?

Most of the time this isn’t the cheapest option, but it is the most flexible. The costs of Eurail Passes vary greatly based on how many countries you select , how many trips you choose,  and  flexi vs. continuous .

If you already have predetermined dates for your European itinerary, then point-to-point train tickets and flights are cheaper than the pass. If you do not want to plan the dates ahead of time, then the pass is probably going to save you money.

train travel on old train in Europe

Use the Klook calculator to figure out the cost of your Eurail pass. Choose your plan and divide the rail pass price by the number of days you’ll be traveling by train to figure out the average expenses of each journey on the pass.

Remember this cost, and always check last-minute regular tickets too. If the cost for a point-to-point or regional ticket is less than your divided price, save one of your trips and buy the cheaper ticket instead!

Budget Tip: If you know you are traveling to Europe this summer, then book your pass   far in advance .  The prices of Eurail Passes are usually lower when you order ahead.

Other Eurail Pass Discounts

Young travelers can receive a big discount on Eurail Passes! If someone is under 27, they can get up to 20% off any type of Eurail Pass, be it a global, single-country, or select-country pass.

Those on a gap-year from school or who are still in the springtime of their life (you whipper-snappers) should ABSOLUTELY be taking advantage of this opportunity. Paying less for your rail pass means more money for all of those amazing museums and those crazy backpacker parties in Europe.

parties in Spain

Note that, the terms “Eurail Youth Pass” and “Eurail Student Pass” are often used interchangeably. It’s best to use the former as students over 27 don’t actually get discounts on Eurail Passes.

When Shouldn’t You Get a Train Pass for Europe

Travel in Italy :  Train tickets in Italy are usually cheap (even if bought at the station), so you’ll save money by simply buying point-to-point tickets. On the other hand, train travel is very expensive in Switzerland, so you should buy a SwissRail pass.

Travel in Spain: Often times Renfe (the system here) is quite expensive for last-minute tickets. Plan ahead here! I found that buses were a more efficient and cheaper way to get around Spain.

Travel in Eastern Europe and the Balkans:   Train travel is also very cheap here. Moreover, a lot of countries in Eastern Europe and the Balkans are not as well connected as Western Europe. Often times the bus is actually cheaper and more efficient.

Travel on Islands: When traveling to countries like Greece, mostly comprised of islands, it obviously makes no sense to travel by a rail pass. Even on mainland Greece, the buses are going to be cheaper. You don’t even have the option on Iceland.

Traveling Regionally: If you are only traveling within a region of a country, the regional ticket will be sufficient. Don’t buy a Eurail pass if you aren’t covering much ground on your trip.

Traveling Long Distances: Conversely, don’t buy a Eurail pass if you are covering a lot of ground either. If you will be jumping around countries (ex: Spain to Italy) the train is going to eat up much of your itinerary and time, and flights are probably going to be cheaper anyway!

For example, if you want to get from Barcelona to Rome, just buy a flight.  If you are traveling slowly from Barcelona to Rome (going through the French Riviera, Switzerland, Tuscany, and a few towns in Italy along the way) then the train pass makes the most sense for fun and flexibility.

Summary of the Eurail Pass

To summarize all of that information above, the Eurail pass is not the cheapest way to travel Europe unless you are traveling by train every couple days. That said, it is the most flexible way to travel because you do not need to buy a ticket in advance. Most of the time you can just hop on the train, which leaves from cities’ centers.

The Flexi option is almost always of better value than the Continuous option unless you are changing cities daily. Activate the pass on the last day of your first city, and end it on the first day of your last city to get the most value.

In order to figure out if the cost of a Eurail pass is even worth it, take your travel style and itinerary into consideration. If you already have a set itinerary with accommodation reservations, look up flights, train tickets, and bus tickets ahead of time. It is probably cheaper to book these in advance versus buying a pass.

Traveling Europe on a budget ? Figure out which Eurail Pass makes sense for your travels, and divide the total pass cost by the number of trips included to figure out how much each “trip” on the pass is worth. Compare the price of the Eurail Pass to every point-to-point, flight, and bus ticket option.

Now that we have covered the different types of Eurail passes, I’m going to discuss all of the other types of train tickets in Europe. Sometimes the pass doesn’t make sense. Below I explain why.

Point-to-Point Train Tickets

These are just your average one-way/roundtrip train tickets you can purchase online or at the train station.  Buying tickets far in advance is almost always the best way to save money when using train travel in Europe, but it’s also the least flexible way to travel.

If you are already traveling Europe on a strict itinerary with reservations, or with limited-time vacation, then this shouldn’t be disadvantageous anyway. Moreover, you want to buy a ticket in advance for popular destinations, like London to Paris.

This is also a great way to travel Europe if you are short on time and trying to make the most of your itinerary. Train stations are located in the city centers, so you don’t have to deal with travel between far-out airports and your destination.

Regional Trains in Europe

Regional trains, as the name suggests, will transport you around a specific region of a country. They are one of the best ways to discover non-touristy areas of Europe.

They do not have the luxury of speed, though you don’t really need it as the distances are short.

You don’t have to buy a regional train ticket in advance since there are frequent services and reservations are not required.

Even if you are only going on a day trip between two destinations, regional train passes can be  cheaper  than a normal roundtrip ticket! This is especially true if you are  Backpacking Germany

For example, if you are trying to visit  Füssen   to visit the famous Neuschwanstein Castle from Munich , it actually makes more sense to buy a Bavaria Regional Day Pass  than a normal roundtrip ticket as the locals do.

Many towns are only reachable by regional trains, like  Sintra, Portugal . This fairy-tale, castle filled town is only 40 minutes from Lisbon, and definitely worth the trip.

Railway Passes in Europe

We discussed this above. The Eurail Pass is the most flexible way to travel around Europe  for non-European residents. Interrail is great for European residents. You can combine 1-5 countries, or get a global pass for full-admittance to all 28 participating countries.

First Vs. Second Class Eurail Pass

In my opinion, one should always choose a second class ticket when buying a rail pass, if possible. There isn’t much of a difference in comfortability, and it’s the best option for travelers on a budget!

The only downside is that second class is significantly more crowded. It can be tough to find a seat on popular train routes. Even if a reservation is not required, it may be worth making one if you are traveling between two popular destinations.

Youth Class

If you are 26 or younger, you’re in luck because a second-class train ticket is up to 35% cheaper for you! Make sure to check this box when you are buying your Eurail Pass!

train travel in Europe

Buy Your Train Tickets Online: You’ll get the best deals on tickets if you buy online, but you need to buy them directly from each country’s site if you do not have a pass. Refer to the  Essential Information for Rails by Country   below.

Here are the websites for Rail Europe Canada , Rail Europe Australia , and Rail Europe New Zealand .

Buy Your Tickets at the Station:  It’s easier to buy regional tickets at the train station. They do not require reservations anyway. It’s also best to buy tickets at the station if you are traveling in Eastern European countries.

How to Buy a Eurail Pass:  You must purchase a Eurail Pass online, which will be shipped to your home address. It is possible to have one shipped within Europe, but you need an address.

You will then activate your rail pass by getting it stamped at the ticket window at the departure station on the day of your first train journey . Once activated, your time limit will begin.

If you have already purchased have a Eurail Pass , you won’t need to purchase another ticket!

The 7 pm rule:  This is important if you have a flexi pass. You only need to use one travel day when you travel on a direct night train that departs after 7 p.m. (19:00) and arrives after 4 a.m. (04:00). The date that counts as the travel day is the arrival date .

beautiful green hills viewed by train travel in europe

Even though European countries are well-connected by rail, each country has their own national rail company and regulations.

Individual Country’s National Rail Websites

If you are buying individual tickets, or you are traveling within one country in Europe, use these individual websites for reference:

Austrian Railways  – Belgian Railways  – Danish Railways – Finnish Railways – French Railways –

German Railways – Irish Railways – Italian Railways – Spanish Railways – Netherlands Railways  –

Norwegian Railways – Polish Railways – Swedish Railways – Swiss Railways  – United Kingdom Railways

train travel in europe budapest

Since the UK isn’t a Eurail participant country, this is the pass you would purchase to travel between England, Scotland, and Wales.

In my opinion, it’s almost always too expensive for what its worth, but the countryside is absolutely beautiful. If you feel like living your Harry Potter off to Hogwarts dream, a train ticket in the U.K is worth the splurge. If you’re on a budget, check Megabus and other cheap ways of travel instead!

Unlike the Britrail pass, it’s almost always worth buying the SwissRail pass. This is a pass you can use to travel around Switzerland; point-to-point tickets in Switzerland are expensive. The pass allows you to use the train on small journeys in between the smaller villages as well.

train travel in Switzerland winter

Below I have highlighted the advantages of traveling Europe by train, and why you should choose a train over air travel.

1. Vast Network of Railways

The coolest part about taking the train is that you are not confined to the main cities. The railway network connects even the smallest European towns, so you can get a bit off the beaten path without having to rent a car.

2. Flexibility

Most passes allow you to hop on a train at a moment’s notice. While some trains require a reservation (like most overnight excursions), most of them do not require you to book ahead. You can show up at the train station and hop on, unlike flying or renting a car, which generally requires a reservation far in advance.

This is a fun way to travel Europe because you can travel without a plan. You never know who you are going to meet while staying in hostels around Europe (or at the bars)! Because European cities are so well connected, you can easily make detours and changes to your itinerary with a rail pass.

3. No Luggage Limits

Even though airline tickets can be cheaper, you will often have to deal with strict weight and size limits. Trains do not have luggage weight or quantity limits, which can sometimes make train travel cheaper than air travel. Check out our guide on what to pack for Europe .

4. Arrive at the City Center

This is a huge advantage of traveling Europe by train. Again, airline tickets may seem cheaper, but once you add in luggage fees and the taxi or metro fare you’re going to need to pay to get to your hostel, money can start adding up.

European train stations are located in the center of town, so you don’t have to spend money (or precious time) getting to/from the city. If you only have a couple weeks to travel around Europe, cutting out time spent at the airport can be huge!

5. Comfortability

The train is much more comfortable than planes, especially those budget airlines like Ryan Air… You have larger seats, and the ability to walk around. You can grab a meal or beer in the food cart, or bring your own refreshments and booze – a great way to save money while travelling Europe and have a good time!

Furthermore, the train has beautiful views and allows you to see more of the countryside and stop in towns you may not have known about. Even if a train ticket is more expensive, it’s sometimes worth it just for the view and comfort.

train station in belgium

Okay, train travel is great, but there are disadvantages of the rails too. I’ve highlights the top reasons why you shouldn’t choose train travel below.

1. Cost of rail passes in Europe

Even though train travel is more fun, it can also be more expensive, especially for long distances or last-minute tickets. Often times the bus or a ride-sharing app is cheaper than train travel.

That being said, there are discounts for youth travelers (under 26) so make sure to use this option! If you are pinching pennies, your best bet is to purchase your train ticket far in advance.

If all else fails, use a ride-sharing app, like Bla Bla Car or hitchhike instead.

2. Slow for Long Distance Travel

The train is great if you are hopping from city to city within one country or neighboring countries, but I wouldn’t want to take a train all the way from Paris to Rome if a flight is a similar cost (and it is). This is the difference between a multi-day excursion and a few hours on a plane.

Make sure to check the timetables and distance for your European trip. It may be worth adding a couple flights if you are trying to cover a vast distance.

3. Some Countries have awful train service

This is mostly true in the Baltics, Greece, Georgia and the rest of Eastern Europe, where taking the bus is way more convenient. In these instances we would point you towards Flixbus who operate across Europe.

is a 5 day trip to europe worth it

Our GREATEST Travel Secrets…

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Below are my top travel tips for taking the train in Europe. These tips are guaranteed to save you $100s of dollars and lots of time, so use them!

1. Preplanned train travel will save you money

It is much cheaper if you buy your tickets online a month or two ahead of time. This takes the flexibility of train travel out of the equations though, which is why a European rail pass is so convenient.

2. Use the Eurail timetable to plan your journey

You can use the  Eurail timetable  to plan your journey with regional trains too. Check the box ‘Avoid trains that require a reservation’ though!

3. Almost always choose the Flexi Pass over the Continuous Pass

If you won’t be traveling every day, there’s no point of the continuous pass. Choose the flexi pass instead; it’s cheaper!

4. Plan to activate your Eurail pass when you will be traveling by train most

You don’t need to buy a month-long pass just because you’re in Europe for a month. You can activate your pass whenever you want, so keep this in mind when you are choosing the length of time for your pass. This will save you money!

For example, You plan to go to Paris, Amsterdam, Berlin, and Munich for one month, but you will be in Paris for a week and Munich for a week. It makes much more sense to buy the 14-day pass instead of a full month.

Moreover, you should also check point-to-point ticket between Paris and Amsterdam. If it’s affordable, then you can use your pass with one less country (France) which will save you a lot of money.

5. Don’t use your Eurail pass if a point-to-point ticket is cheaper

Always check the prices for normal tickets when you are using train travel in Europe. It may be cheaper to buy an individual ticket than your one trip on the pass is worth.

For example, i f you only have 2 train rides left on your Eurail Pass, you’re going to want to use it to get from Paris to Berlin, not Berlin to Dresden (which will probably have a more affordable local ticket).

6. Some rail passes in Europe do not include subways, metros, or trams

Some European train passes, including Eurail, do  not  include intra-city public transport. Regional Tickets, however – like if you buy a Bavaria regional pass – do! Check before you buy to make sure.

7. Choose the night train to save money

If you’re traveling a long distance and set on train travel, you should take a night train. Night trains require a reservation though, so plan in advance. A bed will cost about the same as a hostel bed and should be reserved ahead of time. This is also a good way to save time and money.

8. Check for reservation fees when traveling by train

Many high-speed and overnight trains require reservations even if you have a pre-paid European rail pass. Look for an “R” on the train schedule, which stands for reservation required. There is also a small fee for reservations. Most trains within France require a reservation, but you can make a reservation at the train station!

9. Each country will have a different railroad company

For example, Germany has an extensive rail network, mostly monopolized by Deutsche Bahn, which controls the rail system and metro system in cities.

10. Bring your own snacks and booze

This is definitely the cheapest way to travel! And remember, regional trains do not have a restaurant car!

11. Check the prices of Buses and Flights too

Sometimes train travel is cheaper and more convenient. Other times the bus is. Flights are a cheaper, faster way to jump countries. Check out this post I wrote on  how to find the cheapest flights !

buy Europe train travel tickets ahead of time

Final Thoughts on Train Travel in Europe

It can be overwhelmingly confusing to decipher between the different types of train tickets and passes when planning a trip to Europe. And sometimes it’s tough to know when to use the train vs. car, bus, or plane! That’s why I wrote this guide to European train travel!

Also, remember, if you decide to purchase a Eurail pass, non-EU residents should use Eurail . European and UK residents should use Interail . Comment below if you found this article helpful!

Don’t forget to claim your Eurail Pass discount either people! Just remember to use the code BBPKLOOK when checking out on Klook.

Safe and happy travels!

Get $5 off your Eurail order here!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Ana Pereira

Ana Pereira

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Thrifty Nomads

Is the Eurail Pass Worth It? The Ultimate Guide

is a 5 day trip to europe worth it

Y ou have romantic visions of yourself waking up in Paris, strolling to the railway station with a croissant in one hand, and hopping the next train to Italy. Perhaps you’ll linger in Milan, or maybe you’ll make a beeline to Venice or Rome. All that matters is how you feel in the moment –  you have no plans, no restrictions, and already hold the ticket to all the trains in Europe.

If this sounds like your style, then the Eurail pass may be for you. On the other hand, Eurail passes are expensive, and purchasing one doesn’t always make sense. It all depends on where you’re going, and how you plan to travel.  Here’s a detailed look at exactly who can and should use the Eurail pass, and whether it’s really worth the cost:

What is the Eurail Pass and how does it work?

The Eurail pass is basically the ultimate train ticket. You can use it across multiple countries in Europe and ride ‘free’ – you pay when you buy the rail pass, and don’t need to worry about purchasing more tickets on your journey. You can travel within countries and across borders, provided your pass covers all the countries you pass through.

You don’t need the Eurail pass to travel Europe – it's perfectly possible to buy tickets as you go – but it's a convenient and sometimes cost effective way to do it.

Eurail and passes come in three different regions and in two different styles. Let’s break that down:

One: Choose your region

  • Global – 28 European countries are covered. This includes everywhere from Poland to Portugal, but not Britain (for Britain you’ll need to get hold of a Britrail Pass ). Here’s a complete list of all countries included.
  • Select – choose any 2-4 bordering countries, for example France, Italy and Germany, or Spain and Portugal
  • Single Country – want to spend a month exploring Italy from top to toe? You can buy a single country Eurail pass to zoom in on a specific destination.

Two: Choose your style

  • Flexible – The cheaper option. Choose a number of days to travel on within a certain time frame. For example, 5 days within 1 month. You can travel anywhere in your chosen region for any 5 days within the timeframe of your pass. Once you’ve used up your 5 days of travel, your pass is spent even if you still have time left over. Ticket inspectors will clip your pass with the date each time you travel.

is a 5 day trip to europe worth it

A Few Examples

Let’s look at a couple of Eurail pass examples to make it clearer, and give you an idea of the cost, starting from the most specific to the most general.

  • Single Country Flexible Pass . At current prices , a single country pass for Portugal giving you any 3 days travel within 1 month will cost you € 80. Not all countries cost the same: the same pass for Italy will cost you € 159
  • Select Flexible Pass . Traveling in Italy and Switzerland on any 10 days within 2 months will currently cost you € 334
  • Global Continuous Pass . Been saving up and want to ‘go hard or go home?’ The ultimate Eurail pass has to be the Eurail Global Pass . For adults, the ‘Ultimate Pass’ – 3 months continuous, unlimited travel, will currently cost you € 1308. That’s a lot of coin, but can easily save you a small fortune if you’ll be traveling every day and plan to cover the whole of the continent.

Note: Prices vary and can be cheaper for youth travelers (under 28). Check Eurail.com or RailEurope.com for the latest rates. Prices are frequently slashed during events like Black Friday – keep an eye on Thrifty Nomads and we’ll let you know the next time they’re on special.

Is The Eurail Pass Worth It?

If you know in advance where you’re going and have fixed dates, it can work out cheaper not to get the pass, and instead to book online , especially if you’re only making a handful of journeys.

That said, train tickets prices in Europe can jump up sharply. A train from Berlin to Paris can cost you just €48 if you book well ahead, but if you show up in the morning and hope to get lucky, you could be in for a nasty shock.

is a 5 day trip to europe worth it

Prices Vary Widely Across Europe

While prices in Western European countries like France, Germany, Italy and (especially) Switzerland can be terrifyingly high, Eastern Europe and the Balkans can be shockingly cheap. I once spent a mere 14 Euro on an overnight train from Belgrade to Berlin, including a perfectly comfortable (albeit dusty) bed.

If you’re planning to travel in countries like Czechia and Poland, then the weak local currency and generally lower cost of living means that may not be worth it for you to buy a Eurail pass, even if you’re traveling without fixed dates.

Flying Can Be Cheaper… BUT

With the advent of budget airlines like RyanAir, WizzAir and EasyJet , flying – even at short notice – between European cities has never been quicker or cheaper. Websites like Skyscanner can help you find the best fare. Just remember, there is more than just the cost of the flight to factor in. Checked luggage fees, transport to and from the airport, and sneaky fees for things like not printing your own boarding pass all add up, and can easily exceed the cost of the train.

Despite the convenience of air travel, many travelers prefer the train – it’s slower, but more comfortable, and you get the actually see the places you travel through as you venture from one town to the next.

Another benefit of train travel is the sleeper train. Most overnight journeys will provide you with a bed (for an additional fee) or a seat (normally included in your pass, but you may need to pay a small booking fee – more on this below). This is perfectly safe and comfortable, and means you get a ‘free’ night’s accommodation in addition to making it to your destination.

Bus Travel is a Solid Option… If You Can Stomach It

Buses travel to places that trains don’t go – particularly more remote, mountain villages, and tend to be a lot cheaper than trains for one off trips.  If you’re traveling in Eastern Europe or the Baltics, Polski Bus, a Polish company, offers cheap long distance fares on their clean and comfy buses.

Bus tour companies like BusAbout and Kontiki take (frequently young and party inclined) tourists from major European capital to major European capital, and even organize activities and accommodation for you on route. If you only have time for a short trip and are looking to party your way through Europe, this is a fun option, but it’s definitely not recommended for everybody! You can browse a selection of bus tours, along with reviews and instant booking confirmations, on Viator and GetYourGuide .

is a 5 day trip to europe worth it

A major drawback of bus travel is speed. Buses are much slower than other means of transport: the train between Berlin and Paris takes 8 h 28 min, a bus will take 15 h 36 min – that’s seven hours you can no longer spend at the pub… uh, museum!  Buses are also (in this traveler’s opinion) much less comfortable and far less interesting. From the window of a bus you see only highways, whereas trains pass through cities, villages and fields.

Ok, back to rails:

Eurail Pass Catches To Be Aware Of

Reservations are a pain.

For many trains, the Eurail pass works as a golden ticket. You simply show up, hop on the train, grab the closest available seat, and you’re away laughing. For others, you still have to reserve like all the other suckers. Reservations tend to be required for popular high speed trains between major destinations (trains likely to sell-out) as well as for overnight sleeper trains.

The handy Rail Europe Planner App  has a nifty timetable feature that will warn you if a reservation is required on the route you’re planning to take. If you do have to reserve, the Rail Europe  reservations portal also makes that reasonably painless.

Reservations fees are a flat 8 Euros per train, plus varying charges to reserve your own seat (not always compulsory, but recommended unless you want to be sitting on your suitcase in a cramped train for 8 hours, as has happened to me more than once!).

Travelers report that reservation requirements are getting worse by the day. If you avoid major routes and travel via slower regional trains, you can probably still manage to avoid the need to reserve in advance. I suggest you download the free Rail Planner app and spend some time playing with potential routes so that you see where you stand.

Are You Eligible?

Eurail passes are available only to non – Europeans . You have to order your pass online, and receive it in the post in your home country before you set out on your trip. Prices are cheaper for youth fares – which are available to anyone under 28.

If you’re a European Resident, don’t panic: you can still ride the rails with the carefree abandon of a hobo: you just need a different pass. The Interrail pass is basically the same thing as the Eurail – even slightly cheaper – and is available for European residents only.

is a 5 day trip to europe worth it

The Thrifty Gist

The eurail pass is a convenient way to see europe.

  • The ‘Ultimate Train Ticket’ the Eurail pass means you can travel with, between and across 28 European countries
  • Global : includes all 28 European countries
  • Select : choose 2-4 bordering countries
  • Single : choose 1 country
  • Flexible: travel on a limited number of days within your time limit. This is cheaper.
  • Continuous: unlimited travel within your time limit. This costs more.

The Eurail Pass is Worth the Cost IF

  • You’re traveling in expensive, Western European countries like Germany, France and Italy
  • You plan to travel frequently and cover a lot of ground
  • You plan to take overnight trains instead of flying to get a ‘free’ night’s accommodation
  • You don’t want to do too much planning in advance: you value the freedom of being able to choose your route or dates as you go

The Catch Is…

  • You have to be a non-European resident and order your pass in advance. Europeans can use the similar Interrail pass
  • Many routes – particularly busy high speed trains and overnight journeys – require advance reservation.

Bottom line : The Eurail pass isn’t a ‘must have’ for all travelers, but it can be a major asset if it suits your plans and travel style.

Ugh. Where was this article and advice a month ago before I spent too much money on our Eurail passes and then couldn’t figure out how to use them. They have an app, but there’s no ticket on the app. We ended up buying tickets for our three individual trips and spending so much less than the Eurail passes. But can only get 85% of our ticket costs back. Was a mistake for ya.

I will be landing in Tokyo in mid November! After a couple days I want to get to Europe by rail and see Paris London and Zurich on the quickest trip possible! [email protected]

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is a 5 day trip to europe worth it

These Are The 7 Most Underrated Travel Destinations For 2024

Post may contain affiliate links; we may receive compensation if you click links to those products. This has no impact on how offers are presented. Our site does not include all offers available. Content on page accurate as of posting date.

Looking for travel inspiration for your 2024 travels?

While the most popular destinations around the world are popular for a reason, it can be refreshing to travel somewhere off the beaten path instead.

Some of these underrated destinations can be a bit more challenging, but the reward is worth the effort.

Others on this list simply don't receive the recognition they deserve when stacked up against the most popular travel destinations.

Here are the most underrated destinations for 2024 to add to your bucket list ASAP.

One of the most underrated places to travel in Europe is Poland.

This Eastern European gem is gaining in popularity, but it's still overshadowed by more popular countries and doesn't make the cut for many European travel itineraries.

However, Poland should absolutely be on your list of places to travel.

I visited for the first time this past December and was blown away by how gorgeous Poland was (especially around the holidays when the cities are transformed with lights, decorations, and festive Christmas markets!)

There's so much to discover in Poland, with tons of charming cities like Krakow, Wroclaw, and Gdansk. Poland is also incredibly affordable and extremely safe.

2. El Salvador

Being a very small country, El Salvador often takes a backseat to the other power players in Central America, such as Costa Rica and Guatemala.

But you really shouldn't skip El Salvador.

The country has worked hard to become a safe, beautiful, and welcoming destination for travelers.

From the great surfing beaches on the Pacific coast to the country's natural wonders like Coatepeque Lake and Santa Ana Volcano, El Salvador is worth a trip in 2024.

Its small size also makes it perfect for a week-long getaway.

The country of Georgia is another one of the most underrated travel destinations to check out this year.

Although it remains under the radar for most travelers, it's only a matter of time before this country in the Caucasus explodes in popularity.

Georgia has a cool capital city, Tbilisi, and tons of amazing natural beauty.

And it's an up-and-coming wine tourism destination where you can tour vineyards and enjoy local wine for extremely affordable prices.

4. Sri Lanka

Next up, Sri Lanka is an underrated destination to add to your travel bucket list.

Although the small country recently set a new tourism record (at over 150,000 annual visitors), it's still well off the radar for most travelers.

This small Asian island nation located in the Indian Ocean is known for packing a diverse array of sights, attractions, and landscapes into a relatively small area.

5. Montenegro

If you're looking for a less crowded, less expensive alternative to Greece or Croatia this summer, look no further than Montenegro.

Although this small Balkan country has a healthy tourism industry dominated by European travelers, American tourists have yet to discover it.

This means fewer crowds (especially if you travel in the shoulder season of May or late September) and lower prices, along with gorgeous beaches, historic towns, and great national parks.

This landlocked South American nation is often overshadowed by its neighbor, the tourism powerhouse Peru.

But it's well worth visiting this stunning country in 2024.

I visited Bolivia in 2023 and was surprised and amazed by how much I enjoyed my time there.

This is the ultimate destination for adventure junkies , with bucket list experiences like cycling the infamous Death Road, off-roading on the Uyuni Salt Flats, exploring the Witches' Market in La Paz, and more.

Finally, Cyprus is one of the best underrated destinations for travelers.

Geographically located in the Middle East but part of the EU and more culturally European, Cyprus is a small island in the Mediterranean that is currently trending.

Although it's slowly growing in popularity as more travelers discover the country's beautiful beaches and year-round warmer weather, Cyprus still remains an underrated destination.

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These Are The 7 Most Underrated Travel Destinations For 2024

Respiratory Virus Guidance

Each year, respiratory viruses are responsible for millions of illnesses and thousands of hospitalizations and deaths in the United States. In addition to the virus that causes COVID-19, there are many other types of respiratory viruses, including flu and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The good news is there are actions you can take to help protect yourself and others from health risks caused by respiratory viruses.

CDC’s Respiratory Virus Guidance

This guidance provides practical recommendations and information to help people lower risk from a range of common respiratory viral illnesses, including COVID-19, flu, and RSV.

Preventing Respiratory Viruses

  • Immunizations for Respiratory Viruses
  • Hygiene and Respiratory Virus Prevention
  • Taking Steps for Cleaner Air for Respiratory Virus Prevention
  • Preventing Spread of Respiratory Viruses When You’re Sick
  • Masks and Respiratory Virus Prevention
  • Physical Distancing and Respiratory Viruses
  • Testing and Respiratory Viruses

RVG summary graphic

Download and share this infographic that summarizes key strategies in the guidance.

Special Considerations

In addition to CDC’s Respiratory Virus Guidance, there are several special considerations for people with certain risk factors for severe illness.

Risk Factors for Severe Illness from Respiratory Viruses

  • Older Adults
  • Young Children
  • People with Weakened Immune Systems
  • People with Disabilities
  • Pregnant People

Treatment as Prevention

Treatment is a core prevention strategy to lower risk from respiratory viruses.

Treatment of Respiratory Viruses

About the Guidance

  • Background for the Guidance
  • Frequently Asked Questions

CDC offers separate, specific guidance for healthcare settings ( COVID-19 , flu , and  general infection prevention and control ).  Federal civil rights laws  may require reasonable modifications or reasonable accommodations in various circumstances. Nothing in this guidance is intended to detract from or supersede those laws.

Exit Notification / Disclaimer Policy

  • The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) cannot attest to the accuracy of a non-federal website.
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Illinois student, 11, killed trying to protect pregnant mom from her knife-wielding ex-boyfriend who was released from prison day earlier: officials.

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An 11-year-old Chicago boy died Wednesday as he tried to protect his pregnant mother from her knife-wielding ex-boyfriend who was released from prison a day earlier.

Crosetti Brand, 37, is accused of stabbing the boy in the chest and the 33-year-old woman before he was arrested for the heinous killing of Jayden Perkins, according to the  Chicago Police Department .

Brand had been paroled Tuesday from the Stateville Correctional Center, where he was serving a 16-year sentence for home invasion and aggravated assault.

Jayden Perkins, 11, died while he tried to stop his mother's deranged ex-boyfriend from stabbing her to death.

He forced his way into his ex-girlfriend’s home in Edgewater, Ill. and “brutally attacked” the family, Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling said during a Friday  press conference .

The 33-year-old mother of two was leaving with her children to take them to school at around 8 a.m. when Brand attacked.

The 11-year-old boy stepped in to shield his mother, who was stabbed in the doorway of their home, from the deranged criminal.

Snelling also noted that the woman’s “5-year-old son was also present and witnessed the attack.”

The mother and son were rushed to the hospital after officers arrived on the scene to find them both stabbed “multiple times.”

Crosetti Brand, 37, was arrested for killing the 11-year-old and for attempting to kill his mother.

Perkins was declared dead upon arrival at the hospital.

His mother was listed in critical condition, but prosecutors shared she and her baby are expected to survive.

“An innocent child’s life was taken as he tried to protect his mother far too soon and a mother was attacked in what should have been the safest place for her, which was her home,” Cook County State’s Attorney Kim Foxx said. 

Brand was captured on video fleeing from the home and tossing a “silver item” — later found to be a bloody knife — over a fence, police said.

Perkin's 5-year-old brother was also present and witnessed the attack.

The mother, who had a “lifetime” order of protection against Brand, dated the felon more than 15 years ago, Chicago Police Chief of Detectives Antoinette Ursitti said.

Brand was also charged with one count of attempted murder, home invasion with a dangerous weapon, domestic battery, robbery with a dangerous weapon, felon possession of a weapon, and violation of an Order of Protection, charging documents  show .

The alleged child killer had been previously paroled last year in October.

However, Brand was reasserted in February after “he threatened the female victim via text – and also showed up at her home,” Foxx said.

The alleged child killer had only been out of prison for one day before attacking the family and allegedly killing the 11-year-old.

Snelling said he didn’t “have a good answer” as to why Brand was released and deferred the question to the Illinois Department of Corrections.

“My feeling is that he should not have been,” Snelling said. “He violated parole. He violated an order of protection – and it involved the same type of crime that he was paroled for. So this is someone who should not have been on the street.”

Foxx noted the issues in Brand’s case as “shocking and so glaring.”

“However rare, this is horrific, and we need to do an evaluation – particularly in this case and others – to ensure that there were no gaps in the justice system that will allow for a dangerous offender to commit the acts that he did.”

On Thursday, dozen’s from around the community came out for a vigil to remember the hero 11-year-old boy.

Following the heartless murder, a vigil was held for Perkins on Thursday.

The 11-year-old earned straight A’s in school, consistently made the honor roll, and was involved in cross-country, football, and the arts, a  website  set up to memorialize the boy shared.

“Jayden had a passion for performing and theater, and he had the lead role in several school plays, including ‘Finding Nemo’ at Peirce Elementary.”

His mother was also mentioned on the site as a “beloved member” of the school staff before she moved to the medical field.

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Jayden Perkins, 11, died while he tried to stop his mother's deranged ex-boyfriend from stabbing her to death.

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What to know about the political debate around daylight saving time

Emily Olson

Diba Mohtasham

is a 5 day trip to europe worth it

The Zeitfeld ( Time Field ) clock installation by Klaus Rinke is seen at a park in Düsseldorf, Germany, in 2019. Maja Hitij/Getty Images hide caption

The Zeitfeld ( Time Field ) clock installation by Klaus Rinke is seen at a park in Düsseldorf, Germany, in 2019.

Twice a year, every year, the ritual returns as literal clockwork: the start and end of daylight saving time.

Millions of Americans, with grunts or glee, tap at their devices or wind their watch hands, manually — and mentally — changing the time to reflect a change in seasons.

In recent years, lawmakers have talked about this timeworn tradition being on its last legs. A raft of bills on the federal and state levels that take aim at the biannual time changes are waiting for action or stalled, at least for now.

Here's a look at where things stand.

What's the status of that Senate bill to end time changes?

In March 2022, the Senate passed the Sunshine Protection Act. The intent behind the bill was to make daylight saving time permanent starting in the spring of 2023.

And at first, it looked as though it might become a reality. The Senate passed the bill through an expedited process and with unanimous consent — legislative rarities in this day and age.

But the bill wasn't taken up in the House. Members cited higher priorities, like a budget deficit and the war in Ukraine, but there was also a growing chorus of criticism about the bill's approach (more on this below).

Greenland is keeping daylight saving time permanently

Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., reintroduced the bill in March 2023, and it was sent to the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, but there has been no notable movement on it since. A companion bill, introduced by Rep. Vern Buchanan, R-Fla., is similarly stuck in committee at the House level.

Even if either bill manages to pass both chambers, it'd still need to be signed by President Biden, who hasn't indicated how he leans on the issue.

So for now, the tradition remains intact.

Who observes daylight saving time?

All states but two — Hawaii and Arizona (with the exception of the Navajo Nation) — observe daylight saving time. The U.S. territories of American Samoa, Guam, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands and the Northern Mariana Islands also don't change their clocks.

What's the argument against the Sunshine Protection Act?

When the Sunshine Protection Act was first debated in a House subcommittee, experts said switching to permanent daylight saving time would do everything: save lives, reduce crime, conserve energy and improve health.

And pretty much everyone agrees that ending the time changes is generally a good idea . Our bodies can be very sensitive to disruptions to our circadian rhythms.

But the medical community has taken issue with how the bill proposes to make the change — specifically, that it mandates all states adopt permanent daylight saving time rather than sticking to standard time.

Doctors and scientists argue that standard time is better for our health. Our internal clock is better aligned with getting light in the morning, which, in turn, sets us up for better sleep cycles.

Changing our clocks is a health hazard. Just ask a sleep doctor

Shots - Health News

Changing our clocks is a health hazard. just ask a sleep doctor.

The bill's sponsors aren't budging though. Rubio is still pushing for permanent daylight saving time.

And the biggest argument for this approach may be an economic one. The idea is that having more light in the evenings encourages people to go out and do things — i.e., spend money.

The nation's convenience stores, for example, told a congressional subcommittee that they see an uptick in spending when clocks are set to daylight saving time.

Could the states adopt their own time-change rules?

With federal legislation stuck in a holding pattern, states could take up the issue, but they're still subject to some federal limitations.

The Uniform Time Act , which was passed in 1966, says that states can enact permanent standard time but not permanent daylight saving time.

At least 550 bills and resolutions have surfaced concerning time changes at the state level in recent years, according to a tally from the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL). So the same debate that's happening at the federal level is playing out in statehouses across the United States.

Save Standard Time , a nonprofit that works to end daylight saving time, regularly updates a detailed chart with the exact status of state bills.

If daylight saving time seems tricky, try figuring out the time on the moon

If daylight saving time seems tricky, try figuring out the time on the moon

Which states are trying to end daylight saving time.

In 2023, at least 29 states considered legislation related to daylight saving time.

At least half of those states have enacted or passed measures pledging to switch to permanent daylight time if Congress changes the rules to allow for such an action.

Several of those states were also actively considering legislation that would end daylight saving time, but by switching the state to year-round standard time, according to the NCSL .

Last month, an Oregon bill to keep most of the state in Pacific Standard Time for the entire year didn't advance in the state's Senate. But supporters agreed to amend the bill to say that Oregon will end daylight saving time only if California and Washington make the same change within the next 10 years.

Lawmakers in Oregon's neighboring states of Idaho, California and Washington proposed similar bills.

When will daylight saving time end?

That'll be Sunday, Nov. 3. Mark your calendars.

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Even Photoshop Can’t Erase Royals’ Latest P.R. Blemish

A Mother’s Day photo was meant to douse speculation about the Princess of Wales’ health. It did the opposite — and threatened to undermine trust in the royal family.

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Hair has artificial pattern

is a 5 day trip to europe worth it

Hair has artificial

Mark Landler

By Mark Landler

Reporting from London

If a picture is worth a thousand words, then a digitally altered picture of an absent British princess is apparently worth a million.

That seemed to be the lesson after another day of internet-breaking rumors and conspiracy theories swirling around Catherine, Princess of Wales, who apologized on Monday for having doctored a photograph of herself with her three children that circulated on news sites and social media on Sunday.

It was the first official photo of Catherine since before she underwent abdominal surgery two months ago — a cheerful Mother’s Day snapshot, taken by her husband, Prince William, at home. But if it was meant to douse weeks of speculation about Catherine’s well-being, it had precisely the opposite effect.

Now the British royal family faces a storm of questions about how it communicates with the press and public, whether Catherine manipulated other family photos she released in previous years, and whether she felt driven to retouch this photo to disguise the impact of her illness.

It adds up to a fresh tempest for a royal family that has lurched from one self-created crisis to another. Unlike previous episodes, this involves one of the family’s most popular members, a commoner-turned-future queen. It also reflects a social media celebrity culture driven in part by the family itself, one that is worlds away from the intrusive paparazzi pictures that used to cause royals, including a younger Kate Middleton, chagrin.

“Like so many millennial celebrities, the Princess of Wales has built a successful public image by sharing with her audience a carefully curated version of her personal life,” said Ed Owens, a royal historian who has studied the relationship between the monarchy and the media. The manipulated photograph, he said, is damaging because, for the public, it “brings into question the authenticity” of Catherine’s home life.

Authenticity is the least of it: the mystery surrounding Catherine’s illness and prolonged recovery, out of the public eye, has spawned wild rumors about her physical and mental health, her whereabouts, and her relationship with William.

The Princess of Wales holding red roses and speaking with a small group of people taking photographs.

The discovery that the photo was altered prompted several international news agencies to issue advisories — including one from The Associated Press that was ominously called a “kill notification” — urging news organizations to remove the image from their websites and scrub it from any social media.

Mr. Owens called the incident a “debacle.”

“At a time when there is much speculation about Catherine’s health, as well as rumors swelling online about her and Prince William’s private lives,” he said, “the events of the last two days have done nothing to dispel questions and concerns.”

Kensington Palace, where Catherine and William have their offices, declined to release an unedited copy of the photograph on Monday, which left amateur visual detectives to continue scouring the image for signs of alteration in the poses of the princess and her three children, George, Charlotte, and Louis.

The A.P. said its examination yielded evidence that there was “an inconsistency in the alignment of Princess Charlotte’s left hand.” The image has a range of clear visual inconsistencies that suggest it was doctored. A part of a sleeve on Charlotte’s cardigan is missing, a zipper on Catherine’s jacket and her hair is misaligned, and a pattern in her hair seems clearly artificial.

Samora Bennett-Gager, an expert in photo retouching, identified multiple signs of image manipulation. The edges of Charlotte’s legs, he said, were unnaturally soft, suggesting that the background around them had been shifted. Catherine’s hand on the waist of her youngest son, Louis, is blurry, which he said could indicate that the image was taken from a separate frame of the shoot.

Taken together, Mr. Bennett-Gager said, the changes suggested that the photo was a composite drawn from multiple images rather than a single image smoothed out with a Photoshop program. A spokesman for Catherine declined to comment on her proficiency in photo editing.

Even before Catherine’s apology, the web exploded with memes of “undoctored” photos. One showed a bored-looking Catherine smoking with a group of children. Another, which the creator said was meant to “confirm she is absolutely fine and recovering well,” showed the princess splashing down a water slide.

Beyond the mockery, the royal family faces a lingering credibility gap. Catherine has been an avid photographer for years, capturing members of the royal family in candid situations: Queen Camilla with a basket of flowers; Prince George with his great-grandfather, Prince Philip, on a horse-drawn buggy.

The palace has released many of these photos, and they are routinely published on the front pages of British papers (The Times of London splashed the Mother’s Day picture over three columns). A former palace official predicted that the news media would now examine the earlier photographs to see if they, too, had been altered.

That would put Kensington Palace in the tricky position of having to defend one of its most effective communicators against a potentially wide-ranging problem, and one over which the communications staff has little control. After a deluge of inquires about the photograph, the palace left it to Catherine to explain what happened. She was contrite, but presented herself as just another frustrated shutterbug with access to Photoshop.

“Like many amateur photographers, I do occasionally experiment with editing,” she wrote on social media. “I wanted to express my apologies for any confusion the family photograph we shared yesterday caused.”

Catherine’s use of social media sets her apart from older members of the royal family, who rely on the traditional news media to present themselves. When King Charles III taped a video message to mark Commonwealth Day, for example, Buckingham Palace hired a professional camera crew that was paid for by British broadcasters, a standard arrangement for royal addresses.

When Charles left the hospital after being treated for an enlarged prostate, he and Queen Camilla walked in front of a phalanx of cameras, smiling and waving as they made their way to their limousine.

Catherine was not seen entering or leaving the hospital for her surgery, nor were her children photographed visiting her. That may reflect the gravity of her health problems, royal watchers said, but it also reflects the determination of William and Catherine to erect a zone of privacy around their personal lives.

William, royal experts said, is also driven by a desire not to repeat the experience of his mother, Diana, who was killed in a car crash in Paris in 1997 after a high-speed pursuit by photographers. Catherine, too, has been victimized by paparazzi, winning damages from a French court in 2017 after a celebrity magazine published revealing shots of her on vacation in France.

Last week, grainy photos of Catherine riding in a car with her mother surfaced on the American celebrity gossip site TMZ. British newspapers reported the existence of the photos but did not publish them out of deference to the palace’s appeal that she be allowed to recuperate in privacy.

Catherine and William are not the only members of their royal generation who have sought to exercise control over their image. Prince Harry and his wife, Meghan, posted photos of themselves on Instagram, even using their account to announce their withdrawal from royal duties in 2020.

Catherine’s embrace of social media to circulate her pictures is a way of reclaiming her life from the long lenses of the paparazzi. But the uproar over the Mother’s Day photo shows that this strategy comes with its own risks, not least that a family portrait has added to the very misinformation about her that it was calculated to counteract.

On Monday afternoon, Catherine found herself back in traditional royal mode. She was photographed, fleetingly, in the back of a car with William as he left Windsor Castle for a Commonwealth Day service at Westminster Abbey. Kensington Palace said she was on her way to a private appointment.

Gaia Tripoli and Lauren Leatherby contributed reporting.

Mark Landler is the London bureau chief of The Times, covering the United Kingdom, as well as American foreign policy in Europe, Asia and the Middle East. He has been a journalist for more than three decades. More about Mark Landler

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    anoeba. •. This sub is really, really skewed to long term travel. And that's simply not the reality for most people. Yes, week-long international vacations are worth it. Be mindful of the length of travel to get there, and realistic about how much you're going to see (keep to one or 2 places, take it easy).

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  20. Worth going to Europe for a week : r/travel

    I've taken 9 hour flights for a long weekend to europe before. Totally worth it and no regrets. For 6 nights, you can either pick one city to explore or if you're more ambitious pick two and do 3 nights in each. Most importantly, hope your pregnant wife is ok with you traveling for a week! 635. kiratnyc.

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  23. Is the Eurail Pass Worth It? The Ultimate Guide

    For adults, the 'Ultimate Pass' - 3 months continuous, unlimited travel, will currently cost you € 1308. That's a lot of coin, but can easily save you a small fortune if you'll be traveling every day and plan to cover the whole of the continent. Note: Prices vary and can be cheaper for youth travelers (under 28).

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