month trip in europe

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The ultimate 1 month europe trip itinerary for your first trip to europe.

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Plan the ultimate 1 month Europe trip itinerary with our guide, featuring four iconic cities full of history, culture, and cuisine!

Are you planning a one-month trip to Europe and don’t know where to start? Look no further than this detailed itinerary that takes you through some of the most iconic cities in Europe. From the romantic streets of Paris to the vibrant nightlife of Barcelona, the historic landmarks of Rome to the charming canals of Amsterdam, and the imperial grandeur of Vienna to the exotic flavors of Budapest, this itinerary offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a first-time European visitor or a seasoned traveler, this itinerary will take you on a journey you won’t forget.

We’ll cover a 1 month Europe trip itinerary, 21 days in Europe itinerary, extending to a 5 week Europe itinerary, and more!

This post is all about the ultimate 1 month Europe trip itinerary!

The ultimate 1 month europe trip itinerary, transportation in europe.

There are many options for transportation in Europe, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. One of the most popular ways to travel between European cities is by taking a cheap flight on a budget airline. While these flights may seem to be very affordable, it’s important to factor in all fees for checked bags, carry-ons, and seat selection. Also, factor in the time and money it takes to get to and from the airport.

Train travel is another common option, with many high-speed trains connecting major cities across the continent. Train travel is often more comfortable and scenic than flying, but can sometimes be more expensive though it is still fairly affordable.

Ferries are also a popular option for traveling between coastal cities and islands, offering stunning views of the sea along the way.

For those who prefer more flexibility, renting a car is a great option, allowing travelers to explore at their own pace and visit smaller towns and villages that may not be easily accessible by public transportation. Whatever mode of transportation you choose, make sure to research your options and book in advance to save money and ensure availability.

• Find the best deals on your car rental!

Week 1: Amsterdam + Paris

Days 1-4: Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam is the perfect city to kick off your one-month Europe itinerary. Since the Amsterdam airport is one of the busiest in the world, this makes for a great starting point through Europe. This charming Dutch city is known for its picturesque canals, charming streets, and delicious foods such as cheese and stroopwafels. While in Amsterdam, be sure to visit the Van Gogh Museum to see some of the artist’s most famous works, and the Anne Frank House to learn about the city’s history during World War II. Amsterdam is also a great place to rent a bike and explore the city like a local. It’s great to spend your first 3-4 days here and then take a short flight or a train ride to Paris.

Days 5-7: Paris, France

Paris is a must-visit city during a 1 month Europe trip itinerary. During your first week in Europe, you can immerse yourself in French culture, enjoy delicious cuisine, and visit iconic landmarks. Start your trip with a visit to the Eiffel Tower, where you can take in stunning city views. Then, take a boat tour on the Seine River to see the city differently. Don’t miss the chance to explore the Louvre Museum, home to some of the world’s most famous works of art. 

With charming cafes and restaurants lining the streets, Paris is the perfect place to indulge in French cuisine and wine. By the end of your first week, you’ll have fallen in love with the City of Light and be ready for the next leg of your European adventure. You could easily spend months just in Paris but enjoy the city for the second half of your first week, and it’s time to head south to Italy.

If you are looking for a longer itinerary through Europe, you could easily spend a week to ten days in each of these cities or add on a few nearby cities like Rotterdam from Amsterdam, Versailles, or Champagne from France. Or you could even stop in Brussels, Belgium, on your way between the two cities.

Week 2: Italy

Italy is a country that offers an endless amount of sights, sounds, and flavors. Start in Rome and visit the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Pantheon, where you can experience ancient Rome firsthand. Don’t forget to visit Vatican City, the world’s smallest country, and see the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica.

Although I would never mind spending a week or more in Rome, since you only have a week in Italy, I would recommend pairing Rome with another city. Depending on what you are looking for, you could travel to a handful of other cities throughout the country. With train travel being cheap and efficient, you can easily travel within the country on a one-week trip.

If you’re interested in more culture (and food), you can take a 2-hour train to Florence. This city was the birthplace of the Renaissance and houses some of Italy’s most famous works of art. You could also visit Venice, the city of canals, where you can take a gondola ride through the winding waterways and enjoy Italian food and wine in charming piazzas and trattorias. If you’re visiting during warmer weather, try heading to the coast with gorgeous small towns in Cinque Terra or luxury waterfront experiences on the Amalfi Coast. The possibilities are endless, and you really cannot go wrong with any choice. Italy is all-around just amazing.

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Week 3: Greece

From Italy, you’ll head to Greece. Greece is a country steeped in history and mythology, and a must-visit during a 1 month Europe trip itinerary. Start your journey in Athens and visit the Acropolis and the Parthenon, two of the most famous ancient landmarks in the world.

From Athens, head to any of the beautiful Greek islands. You can fly to some or take a ferry and take in the lovely views along the way. For a more traditional route, try visiting Santorini or Mykonos. But you can expect it to be busy and expensive. For a less crowded Greek island experience, visit Paros or Milos. Enjoy Greek food and wine in charming tavernas and cafes while taking in the breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea.

• Find your entry requirements and make getting a visa a breeze!

Week 4: Spain

To fully immerse yourself in the adventurous and fast-paced one-month trip to Europe, make sure to add Spain to your itinerary. With a unique blend of history, culture, and modernity, this country has so much to offer. Start your journey in Barcelona, one of the most enchanting cities in Spain. Immerse yourself in its vibrant nightlife, visit the world-renowned museums, and marvel at the stunning architecture, including the works of Antoni Gaudi. While in Barcelona, make sure to enjoy some of the best tapas in the world and indulge in the local delicacies until midnight.

Next, travel to Madrid, Spain’s capital city, via high-speed train. The city is a melting pot of cultures with a rich history and a vibrant contemporary art scene. Take some time to explore the city’s many art museums, including the famous Prado Museum, where some of the world’s most famous works of art are displayed. Don’t miss out on the delicious local cuisines and the nightlife, which is just as exciting as Barcelona’s.

This post was all about the ideal 1 month Europe trip itinerary. With so much to see and do in Europe, I hope this is just the beginning of your European adventures.

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All Destinations , Europe , Road Trip Itineraries

Your perfect 1 month europe travel itinerary.

Europe: its cultural diversity twinned with a managable size and excellent transport links make for an immensley rewarding travel experience.

No matter where you go, cities everywhere from Seville to Helsinki always attract a wave of travellers, especially during the summer.

Many backpackers and travellers want to spend at least one month in Europe to get a real feel for this historic and diverse yet compact continent. Plane tickets can be cheap if you are willing to go off season or get the right deal, and driving in Europe is fun, but when it comes to transport train is king.

Not only there are trains everywhere, with both regular and high-speed options, but also programs like Eurail and Interrail let you use almost the whole train network for a fixed amount of money.

And of course, taking the train is a great way to protect the environment – train travel is one of the best sustainable travel tips ! This is how I navigated the continent during my one month Europe trip.

If you are planning to do something similar, fear not! Train distances, times, itineraries, reservations… Been there, done that. And now I’m sharing it with you while you’re sorting out your Europe travel itinerary, so everything runs smoothly.

Organising your Europe Trip Itinerary: Before the Trip

The first step on this Europe itinerary planner is to purchase a rail pass.

If you are a European citizen or a non-European who is living in a European country, the Interrail Pass is what you need.

It is cheap, it gives you access to the European train network and includes some really nice extras: from included buses in some cities to discounted ferries and tours.

For example: do you want to hop to Morocco from the south of Spain? The Interrail Pass gives you a 30% discount in the ferry that crosses the strait of Gibraltar! Click here for more information about the Interrail Pass .

What happens if you are not eligible for the Interrail Pass?

The good news is that you can still buy a rail pass; the Eurail Pass .

The bad news is that is going to cost you a little bit more. Everything else is roughly the same.

Some of the benefits and discounts might vary, but most of them are still there.

No matter which one you choose there are plenty of options depending on the length of your trip and which countries you want to visit.

If you are an under 27 year old backpacking Europe or over 60 and seeing the highlights you’ll get a nice discount; and you will also get some money off if you are travelling with children.

The most important thing to consider when choosing a rail pass is the length of time in which it will be valid. For a Europe trip itinerary 4 weeks is a great amount of time to explore the continent, so most people opt for a month-long interrail pass.

While you can buy one that will work for an entire month every single day, bear in mind that you probably are not going to take a train every day.

This is important because you can buy one that will allow you to travel just for a few days, but will be valid for an entire month.

For example, one of the most popular options lets you travel for 15 days in a month. That means you can use the pass for 30 days, but you are only allowed to travel on 15 of these days.

This is very useful because usually, you are not going to take a train every day, thus the pass is substantially cheaper. The 30/15 day pass is roughly 150€ cheaper than the 30/30 day pass!

Once you have the pass, planning is important. If you want to take a night train or a high-speed train you will probably need to make a reservation.

Of course, you don’t have to use high-speed trains at all, but it saves a lot of time! If you need some help with times and distances, this wonderful map lists all the major destinations and the time it takes from one to another.

The Organised Tour Option

If you’d rather sit back and let someone else show you around this wonderfully diverse continent, you have options!

Packing for A One Month Europe Trip

If you are going to embark on a one month trip to Europe there are a few essentials you should remember to pack. These include:

• Water bottle – you can drink the tap water in many parts of Europe, but for those places that you can’t, a water to go bottle  is a great solution.
• Padlock for hostels
• Universal adapter
• A rain jacket or a poncho
• A copy of your important documents
• A kindle  or a small computer
• A copy of Lonely Planet’s Europe guidebook

Most of Europe enjoys (subject to opinion!) four seasons, so pack accordingly. In the summer, you’ll be wearing mostly shorts and t-shirts but the northern cities could be chilly, so be sure to pack some trousers and jackets as well.

In spring and autumn, you’ll want a mix of summer and winter clothes. In winter, it can get very cold, so make sure you incorporate a coat, a scarf, and gloves to your Europe packing list!

1 Month Europe Itinerary

London is a great place to start your one-month Europe trip.

It’s an action-packed city that’s great to visit whatever the season. While the city comes alive in the summer, London in winter has a real charm.

Heathrow is Europe’s biggest airport, and it is really easy to reach from almost anywhere in the world.

From the airport, you can easily get to the city centre via rail or coach links, where the hostels are located. You can also fly into Gatwick, Stansted and Luton – all of which are well connected to Central London.

London is the biggest city in Western Europe and one of the most popular destinations in the world, so there are plenty of activities to do.

You can join one of the many free walking tours, or explore the city on your own. The main attractions of London include Buckingham Palace, Westminster Bridge and the Parliament, the Tower Bridge and the Tower of London, the London Eye, Covent Garden, the Soho, Piccadilly Circus, Trafalgar Square and more… if you are willing to walk for a bit you can easily visit most if not all of them in a day.

Or you can always take the famous London tube! That counts as cultural experience, doesn’t it?

Once you’ve adjusted to London life and know where the landmarks are, you’ll want to delve a little deeper into some of the best bits of the capital. Westminster Abbey is a great place to see to experience some of the best British histories as it is where hundreds of the most notable characters of the UK are buried and where the kings and queens of Britain are crowned.

Another London must-do for history fans is going on a tour inside the Tower of London. Here you can learn all about the fabled stories of this impressive building and see the crown jewels.

If you are after some more contemporary attractions, how about doing a Harry Potter tour to see some of London’s most magical sights or visiting the London Dungeons?

After two busy days, you might want to go easy. Maybe start your day with a visit to the British Museum, or walk through Hyde Park or Regent’s Park.

If you want to try some local food you could visit one of the historic pubs; like The Spaniard’s Inn which has almost 500 years of history.

If you like shopping, Oxford Street is where to go (be careful, your backpack gets heavier with everything you buy!).

And the West End is a great choice if you are interested in theatres, or check out the galleries and museums of Kensington. No matter your preferences, there’s always something to do in London !

Recommended Tours in London

• Bus transfer and tour of the Warner Bros Studios. Click here for more information .
• Cruise down the River Thames, from Westminster to Greenwich. Click here to book .
• Visit Buckingham Palace’s State Rooms (only open for visitors from late July to early September). Click here to find out more .
• See the most magical sights of the capital with a Harry Potter tour. Click here to reserve tickets .

Where to Stay in London

• Hostel  – There are so many hostels in London, some of which are surprisingly budget-friendly. I’d highly recommend WOMBATS city hostel, which has a fun, social atmosphere, free wifi, USB outlets for each bed and ensuite bathrooms. Click here for rates or to read more !
• Hotel – The fantastic value Hotel Moonlight is located in the upmarket Kensington and Chelsea area. This is near where all the museums are, and a short tube right to other London attractions. The hotel rooms offer mini-fridges and microwaves, as well as city views from soundproof windows. For rates and to book, click here .

After a few days in London, it is time to go to the City of Light for the next leg of your one month Europe itinerary. Paris is just over two hours away from London by train.

The Eurotunnel connects the UK with the rest of the continent, and you can take a train, the Eurostar, from St. Pancras station to Gare du Nord, in Paris.

However, be aware that this train is NOT included in any of the rail passes, so you will need to buy it on your own!

If you’re after a cheaper way to reach Paris, budget coaches make the 10 hour journey daily.

It will be the afternoon by the time you arrive, so I’d recommend a stroll around the Montmartre district, where famous landmarks like the Basilica of the Sacré Coeur or the Moulin Rouge are located.

Start your Paris itinerary with a nice breakfast by visiting a local boulangerie and buying some fresh and delicious croissants.

There are places to grab a coffee and croissant on virtually every street corner in Paris!

Then, get ready to start exploring. Paris is a big city, so using its public transportation is a good idea.

If you want to start with the most famous landmarks of the country visit the Champ de Mars and see the Eiffel Tower in all its glory.

Ascending the iconic monument first can be tempting, but I personally prefer leaving it for the sunset, to watch the city glow in beautiful shades of orange from above.

For the rest of the day, you can visit famous landmarks, like the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Arc de Triomphe, or take a slow and relaxing walk through the Tuileries Garden.

When I have multiple days in a city I always try to leave all the cultural activities for the last day or days, since they are more relaxing and less demanding than going from landmark to landmark.

Paris has so many of them that you would need a week just to go to the main ones, but within a day you can probably manage to visit the Palace of Versailles and visit the Louvre Museum.

If you really want to cram something else today, the Musée d’Orsay or the Rodin Museum are good options too.

Of course, don’t forget to go at least once to a proper French restaurant and enjoy the delicious cuisine of the country!

Recommended Tours in Paris

• 1, 2 or 3 Day Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour. Click here for details .
• Paris in One Day. Click through to learn more .
• Catacombs Special Access Tour. Click here for more information .

Where to stay in Paris

• Hostel  – Plug Inn Montmarte by Hip Hop Hostels (pardon the mouthful) is a great place to rest your head. This budget accomodation option is only 600m from Sacre Couer Cathedral and offers free wifi, a terrace, rooms with private bathrooms and an included buffet breakfast. For rates and to book, click here .
• Hotel – The newly renovated Dream Hotel Opera is popular with those looking for somewhere perfect to kick back and relax. Rooms are soundproofed and have patios, and the hotel enjoys its own sauna. For rates and to book, click on this link .

After a few days in Paris it’s time to visit one of my favourite cities in Europe; which will be a highlight of your one month Europe trip for sure!

The train from Paris to Amsterdam takes between three and four hours. Sometimes you have to switch trains in Brussels, but the time is about the same.

After arriving in Amsterdam Centraal you will be almost in the heart of the city, where the famous canals are located.

Spend the afternoon just relishing the city centre and its unique ambience, enjoying its architecture and modern culture. Remember to watch out for bikes!

There’s no better way to get to know the city better than joining a walking tour.

Amsterdam is a city with a long and interesting history, where all the buildings tell a different story.

The tour will answer some questions you inevitably might have about the unique architecture and give you some fun facts about the city!

You can rent a bike if you want to explore outside of the city centre; they are available everywhere.

In the evening, joining one of the walking tours explaining the history of the Red Light District is one of the most famous things to do in the city.

If you want to see one of the famous Dutch windmills you can visit the last one standing in Amsterdam, just a 30 minutes’ walk from the city centre.

However, The Dutch are not only famous for their tulips, dykes, and windmills, but also for their many famous painters.

From Rembrandt to Van Gogh, the museums of Amsterdam are home to hundreds of famous paintings. Probably the best ones to visit are the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum.

It takes a while to see them, so it’s best to choose your favourite one or two museums and stick to them! Another worthwhile yet harrowing cultural place to visit is Anne Frank’s House, but make sure to book it in advance to avoid the queues.

When night comes, you could do a pub crawl through the many Amsterdam bars, which is a great way of getting to know your new hostel friends and having some fun in the Venice of the North.

Recommended Tours in Amsterdam

• Evening Canal Cruise. Click here to read more .
• Bike Tour of Historical Amsterdam. Click here to book today .
• Amsterdam in WW2: History of Anne Frank Tour. Click here for information and tickets .

Where to stay in Amsterdam

• Hostel – Ecomama is a great hostel, located really close to the city centre. It has comfy beds, hot showers, clean dorms with beds with their own socket and a big area with games. It also organizes all kind of activities, like walking tours or pub crawls. It just took me 15 minutes to reach it from the train station. Click here for more details and to book .
• Hotel – Hotel Levell offers fully equipped bedrooms, a buffet breakfast each morning, and 24 hour reception. The interior is modern and the staff are very accommodating. Click here for more details and to reserve your stay .

Germany has a huge amount of historic cities, and Frankfurt is but one of them.

If you take an early train from Amsterdam Centraal, you’ll be able to spend the afternoon exploring Frankfurt before heading to Bern the next day. Frankfurt isn’t quite up there with the glitz and glamour of London, Paris and Barcelona, but it is a worthwhile stopover on your one-month Europe trip.

Rent a bike for a cheap way to see the city and explore the Old Town, or take the Ebbelwei Express, which tours the city’s major landmarks and serves up apple wine. A great way to see the city!

Where to stay in Frankfurt

• Hostel – Five Elements Hostel Frankfurt offers a terrace with barbecue facilities, fully heated rooms, free WiFi and bicycle rental services. Choose from twin, double or dorm rooms – or if there’s a group of you, why not rent out its apartment? Click here for rates and to book .
• Hotel – You can enjoy studios and apartments at Capri by Fraser, which has a bar and gym on site. Each room has a desk and flat screen TV, and is tastefully decorated. Check rates and reserve here .

Get up early to take the train to Bern, so you can enjoy the afternoon in the city.

The Swiss capital is a small city, but probably one of the prettiest ones in Europe. Bern is a fantastic launching pad for exploring Switzerland by rail .

Bern is a gorgeous city, with beautiful buildings and is surrounded by a stunning landscape.

Take a walk through the streets and discover all the city has to offer, from the Zytglogge, the tower with a 15th-century astronomical clock, to Einstein’s House, where he lived when he developed his Theory of Relativity.

Don’t forget to walk all the way up to the Rosengarten, where you can have a fantastic panoramic view of the whole city. Here’s some more information about how to spend a perfect day in Bern .

Where to stay in Bern

• Hostel – Beautiful as Bern may be, it’s expensive! Staying in a hostel will reduce the price somewhat  – Bern Youth Hostel is super clean and well facilitated, with an included breakfast which will help you save some money during your trip. There are not many hostels in Bern, so it’s recommended to definitely book this one in advance before it sells out! Check prices and book here .
• Hotel – B&B Gutenberg is an affordable choice in the city. Highly rated by previous visitors, the property has excellent free wifi, some in-room cooking facilities and the price includes a delicious breakfast. Click here for prices and to book .

Milan, for me, was just a quick stop before going to Venice, but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do here. It’s well worth a stop on your Europe itinerary!

Probably the biggest thing to do here is going to see the Last Supper.

The famous painting is located at the Basilica di Santa Maria delle Grazie, and to see it you have to book in advance or join a guided tour. Of course, the most iconic landmark of Milan is the Duomo di Milano, the massive white cathedral, the third-largest church in the world.

Right next to it the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, which has some of the most expensive and elegant shops and restaurants in the city – maybe not suitable for a backpacker’s budget, but fun to look around!

Where to stay in Milan

• Hostel – Ostello Bello Grande is located in the middle of the city, next to Milan Train Station; so it’s a perfect place to base yourself when travelling to and from the city by train! There is a 24 hour reception and 24 hour snack bar, a communal kitchen, a great atmosphere, beautiful surroundings and breakfast and dinner is included! Check rates and reserve here .
• Hotel – Hotel Milano Castello has a modern feel, with chic, air conditioned rooms offering comfy beds and luxury bathrooms, some with a spa bath. The hotel is in a prime location for exploring the city and has wifi throughout the property. Click here for rates and to reserve a room .

Venice is just two and a half hours away from Milan by train.

The Serenissima is one of my favourite cities of Italy and is a highlight of many people’s Europe tour itinerary. The beauty of the buildings and the canals, the wonderful Mediterranean weather, the rich history… it’s no wonder why so many people fall head over heels for Venice.

Venice has so many things to do.

If you are like me probably walking the streets finding beautiful buildings like the Ponte di Rialto and looking at the beautiful canals is more than enough.

Or maybe go to the Piazza San Marco to have a –very expensive- coffee and see the Basilica. Taking a gondola ride is also a possibility – but be aware, private gondalas cost up to 100€ for an hour!

Ca’ d’Oro is a private palace that is now an art gallery and museum which is well worth exploring, and the Rialto Bridge and Market are stunning on a sunny day.

Once you think you’ve seen all of Venice’s highlights, there is still so much more to explore. Ca’ Rezzonico is a patrician palace which demonstrates life in 18th century Venice, and the Penny Guggenheim Museum exhibits some of the most impressive early modern artworks in Europe.

You can also take the Vapretto Line to see some of the best sights of Venice from the water.

Recommended Tours in Venice

• 20 minute shared gondola ride – a great budget way to do this iconic Venetian experience! Click for more details and to book .
• Create your own carnival mask workshop. Click here to reserve tickets .

Accomodation in Venice

• Hostel – The biggest problem with Venice is how expensive everything is; especially accommodation! That’s why instead of staying in the city I went to a cheap hostel in Mestre, the mainland of Venice. Since I had the Interrail Pass I could take the short train to Venice for free, saving a lot of money. Check rates for the cheap and popular Anda Venice Hostel her e.
• Hotel – Palazzo Veneziano is located close to the main attractions; but the hotel itself is so fantastic you might struggle to leave! With luxury features like marble bathrooms (some with spa baths!) and comfy beds, as well as an included breakfast, the hotel offers affordable luxury in the heart of the city. Click here for rates and to book today .

The capital of Austria, Vienna is a beautiful historic city with plenty of amazing cultural activities. You won’t see a city like it during your month in Europe! 

The 2 day Vienna Pass includes entry to more than 60 of the capital’s top attractions and the Vienna sightseeing bus.

At €79, it’s not cheap, but Vienna isn’t exactly budget friendly, and if you want to see all of the sights it will save you money.

Taking the sightseeing bus will orientate yourself in the city.

A stroll around the old town is a must, as well as seeing the Rathaus, Hofburg, The Museum Quarter and St Stephen’s Cathedral.

Other great attractions to enjoy in Vienna are Belvedere Palace, Vienna Stadtpark, Hundertwasser House, Votive Church and the Parliament. Make sure you factor in enough time to stroll around the beautiful old town as well.

Recommended Tours in Vienna

• Vienna to Bratislava Boat Tour – cruise the Danube and get a taste of Slovakia with this return day trip. Click here for more information and to book .
• Walking Tour By Night – discover the spooky side of Vienna after dark. Click here for rates and to reserve your spot .

Accomodation in Vienna

• Hostel – Our friends, WOMBATS, are back with another excellent hostel in Vienna! A great place to meet fellow backpackers, WOMBATS is great value and has a 24 hour reception. The decor is modern and stylish and a buffet breakfast is provided each morning. Click through to read more and book today !
• Hotel – Hotel Stefanie, the oldest hotel in Vienna, provides rooms at great deals. Air conditioning, private bathrooms and satellite TV are provided in each room and its adjoining restaurant provides Austrian and international cuisine. Book by using this link .

The train ride from Vienna to Budapest is supposed to be three hours – although it can take up to five!

But it’s worth it when you arrive; Budapest is a fantastic city, where you can see the distinct mix between Soviet and imperial buildings, which gives the city a unique look.

Two days in Budapest during your one-month Europe itinerary is enough to get a taste of central Europe; although be warned, you’ll be wanting to return!

Budapest, with its beautiful architecture, is a fantastic place to explore by foot. One of the best places to see its buildings is the Andrássy Avenue, with incredible constructions like the Hungarian State Opera House.

Another great spot is the Parliament Buildings, the biggest building in the city at the time of construction.

Right on the other side of the river, the Fisherman’s Bastion is another must-see ; the 19th-century white fortification is not only one of the most beautiful parts of Budapest, it also offers a great view of the city.

If you’re not exhausted after a whole day walking the city, head back to Andrássy Avenue and go in the opposite direction of the Parliament to find the Heroes’ Square, a huge square decorated with statues of the Magyars, the nomad central Asian warlords that founded the country a thousand years ago.

The Heroes’ Square is just the entrance to the massive City Park, another brilliant point of Budapest and, of course, filled with majestic buildings showing off the wonderful 19th-century architecture of the city.

Here you can also find some of the famous Bath Houses, where you can relax and swim – although beware, the queues are sometimes gigantic! End your trip by visiting one of the Ruin Pubs which are huge pubs, and clubs built in the ruins of the old imperial and Soviet buildings.

Budapest is one of the best places in Europe to party hard if that’s your thing!

Recommended Tours in Budapest

• Night Cruise on the Danube. Click here for more details .

Where to stay in Budapest

• Hostel – Big Fish Hostel is in a really good location, the people working there are amazing and it has clean and comfortable beds. There is also free coffee in the mornings! Click here for more details and to book .
• Hotel – Danubius Hotel Helia is 15 minutes from the historic city and features a popular spa, a good gym and a swimming pool. The rooms are clean, comfy and modern. Check here for more details and book today .

From the big Budapest to the tiny Slovenian capital, Ljubljana offers a peek into the Balkan countries, showing you another side to the continent on your Europe trip itinerary!

Green fields, emerald forests and crystal blue lakes and rivers gives the whole of Slovenia a fairy tale look. 

Ljubljana is a small city that blends in perfectly. It doesn’t have many landmarks, besides the castle and the Dragon Bridge, but I just love to walk through the streets.

Accomodation in Ljubljana

• Hostel – Hostel Tresor is located in the centre of Ljubljana, and is listed amongst the most unique hostels in the world; it is located inside a former bank and offers free WiFi as well as rooms with air conditioning. Each bunk has privacy curtains. A bar and grocery shop are located in the same building. Check rates and reserve by clicking here.
• Hotel – If you enjoy city views and modern comfortable rooms, Hotel Lev is for you. There are plenty of spots around the hotel to relax, and a buffet breakfast is included in the morning. Book by using this link .

Lake Bled –or Bled Jezero in Slovenian- is probably the most famous landmark in the whole country. Taking a train or coach to the north is really easy from Ljubljana, and there are plenty of things to do and hostels in the area.

For your day in Bled, I recommend walking around the lake and kayaking to to the island in the centre, which has a church and a spectacular lookout over the lake.

Where to stay in Lake Bled

• Hostel – You can either do Lake Bled as a day trip from Ljubljana, or stay at the lake. Jazz Hostel is extremely traveller friendly, with helpful staff, use of kitchen included and a great atmosphere. Breakfast is not included in the price, but at just 5 euros for a huge plateful, it’s impossible to turn down! Check rates and book by clicking here .
• Hotel – with beautiful views over the lake, a delicious breakfast and clean facilities, Guest House Mlino is a great choice. Click here for rates and to book today .

Going to Verona from Bled Lake takes a while. I had to go back to Ljubljana and from there go to Trieste.  Once in Trieste, there is a train that takes around 4 hours. Be sure to leave early to reach Verona in time to see some of the attractions!

Verona is a small Italian city, probably most known for being the hometown of Romeo and Juliet.

You can actually visit Juliet’s house and balcony! Of course, don’t leave the city without going to the Arena, which is still used today as a theatre. It also has a beautiful river with amazing views of the typical Italian buildings.

Where to stay in Verona

• Verona is somewhat lacking in hostels, so if you are backpacking Europe this night might be a good excuse to treat yourself to some well-needed privacy.You could rent an Airbnb – use this code for money off your first booking.
• Or check out some of the cheaper guesthouses in Verona. The adorable Juliette House BB is only 50 metres from the actual Juliette House; it is decorated in boutique style and is very clean and well facilitated – and has a budget price to boot. For rates and to book, check here .

I think just one day in Verona is more than enough, so after making sure you have seen the city’s attractions in the morning after your long day of travel, a side trip to Bologna to see more of the north of Italy is a great addition to your Europe itinerary. That’s one of the great advantages of the Interrail Pass, the flexibility!

Bologna is a beautiful town, with lots of medieval style buildings. Some of the most famous ones are the two huge towers in the town centre, and, of course, the university, which is the oldest in the world!

Bologna is the perfect place to enjoy the local food or learn about the weird stories about the town, like the war they had against Modena , cause by… a wooden bucket.

Where to stay in Bologna

• Hostel – Loved by travellers, Dopa Hostel has comfy beds, friendly staff, and complimentary breakfast. Guests can also make use of free WiFi and a great location; it’s the ideal place to stay in the city. Check here for rates and to book .
• Hotel  – Ramo Rosso di Paolo Natalini has comfy and spacious rooms, tastefully decorated with modern amenities, as well as an included breakfast and helpful staff. Click here for more information.

Your 1 month Europe itinerary now takes you westwards, towards the Iberian peninsula.

The train from Italy to Spain is a long one, so it’s a great idea to break it up with some stops in some southern French cities. Culturally these cities are completely different to Paris; so they make a great addition to your European itinerary.

The train from Bologna to Nice takes around 7 hours; so it’s best to get an early one and snooze en route – or you could even take a night train to save on accommodation.

Once you arrive in Nice, head to the glorious old town. Some of Nice’s best attractions are here, including the Palais Lascaris Museum and the Église Saint-Jacques-le-Majeur de Nice.

The Cours Saleya Market is open every day apart from Monday (when it becomes an antique market!) and is a great spot for purchasing local produce. The port is also a lovely place to pass some time, with colourful boats and lots of bars and restaurants.

Accomodation in Nice

• Hostel – After all that city trawling, you might want some beach time, right? Villa Saint Exupery Beach Hostel is just a 4 minute walk away from the nearest beach. The hostel price includes access to a fitness centre and a sauna, perfect for some chill time before your next stop. For rates and to book, click here .
• Hotel  – Nice is pretty affordable when it comes to decent hotels, and Hotel 64 is great value for what you get. It’s in close proximity to everything, has amazing staff, and gorgeous clean rooms with fantastic facilities.  Click here for more details .

Another southern French city that’s well worth visiting on your western Europe travel itinerary is the beautiful Marseille.

The stunning Notre Dame de la Garde, which sits on top of a hill and overlooks the sea, is a must-visit. The Vieux Port and the old town are the most photogenic areas of the city, and a great bet, if it is raining, is to head to the Musee des Civilisations de l’Europe et de la Mediterranee (MuCEM), which explores Mediterranean culture and history.

Accommodation in Marsaille

• Hostel – Right by Vieux Port is Hostel Vertigo Vieux-Port, a popular backpacker hangout with a shared kitchen and a Mediterranean style lounge area. Breakfast is included in the price. Check here for rates and to book today .
• Hotel  – The chic yet affordable Staycity Aparthotels are a great place to rest your head. With clean facilities, free wifi, and modern furnishings, this aparthotel makes a great stay. Click here for rates and to book .

Welcome to Spain! You might be exhausted by the time you arrive in Barcelona, but the atmosphere of this effervescent city will quickly boost you back up. There is so much to do and see in Barcelona !

The main sight of the city is, of course, the Sagrada Familia Cathedral. This unfinished massive church in the middle of the town is Gaudi’s masterpiece.

It has been in construction for over 100 years, and won’t be finished at least for another 20. From there you can take Gaudi Avenue up to the Hospital de Sant Pau, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a beautiful example of the Modernista architecture of Barcelona.

Another great example of this style of building is the Palau de la Música Catalana. If that’s not enough architecture visit the Casa Milà, Casa Vicens and Casa Batló, the other famous buildings designed by Gaudi.

If you haven’t had enough of Gaudi, head up to the Park Güell. All of these are UNESCO World Heritage Sites! In case you are wondering, there are seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites designed by Gaudi in Barcelona!

Of course, a visit to Barcelona is not complete without going to Plaça de Catalunya and walking down La Rambla, the most famous street in the city. From there explore La Boquería, the traditional market where you can find fresh food.

Keep walking down and turn left to get into the Gothic Quarter, where the big 19th century avenues and streets become medieval twisted alleys. Here you can find the Barcelona Cathedral or the old Roman and Medieval walls. Not far away is the number one spot for many tourists: the beach!

It’s not the greatest beach ever but the Mediterranean is always pleasant. From here you can walk to Port Olímpic, the Olympic Harbour, where the games were celebrated in 1992.

Nearby is another landmark of the city, the statue of Christopher Columbus, famously pointing in the wrong direction. And be sure to pass through Plaça d’Espanya before ending your time in the city.

It is a huge square with two very famous towers modelled on the campanile of St. Marl’s Basilica in Venice, and for that reason, they are called the Venetian towers.

Recommended Tours in Barcelona

• Costa Brava Coastal Tour with Snorkelling. Click here for more information .
• Hop-On Hop-Off Barcelona City Tour. Click here to learn more .

Accommodation in Barcelona

• Hostel – In a city as big as Barcelona, accommodation options are plentiful – but due to Barcelona’s mass tourism, staying in the city isn’t cheap! But Generator Hostel Barcelona manages to twin luxury with great value. Each bunk has its own reading light and power sockets and all dorms are facilitated with air conditioning and heating. Breakfast is available at an extra cost, and the Gràcia area in which the hostel is located in a buzzing part of the city with lots to do. For rates and to book, click here .
• Hotel -The small but personable Casa Mathilda is set in a historic building with refurbished rooms. It offers a personable atmsophere with helpful staff and the rate included breakfast. Use this link to book

It would be a shame to venture all the way to Spain by rail and only see Barcelona – its capital, Madrid, is very different and a lot less touristy than Barcelona! Awash with museums, churches and amazing eateries, there is plenty to do in two days in Madrid.

The most famous street in Madrid is the Gran Via, and is a great place to orientate yourself. Plaza de Oriente is located near the Royal Palace of Madrid and Almundena Cathedral, both of which are worth checking out.

Plaza Mayor is a fantastic spot for lunch. Plaza de Espana, Casa de Campo and the Temple of Debod can be explored in the afternoon.

Spend your last day in Spain seeing some of Madrid’s galleries and museums, such as the Prado Museum and Retiro Park. Plaza de Castilla and Cuatro Torres are interesting spots that show a more modern side of the city.

Recommended Tours in Madrid

• Spanish Inquisition Walking Tour. Click here for more details .
• Madrid Royal Palace Guided Tour. Click here to learn more .

Accommodation in Madrid

• Hostel – D’Hostel Madrid offers a central location and great features making this an excellent place to stay. Some dorms have a kitchenette, and there is a large lounge and kitchen in the communal areas. Breakfast is included. Check rates and reserve by clicking here .
• Hotel – Only YOU Hotel is audaciously funky, with enthralling decor in reception and the bar and restaurant, and a personable air to each perfectly clean boutique-style bedroom. Check rates and book here.

One month Europe itinerary: where to next?

And that’s a wrap! You’ve covered a lot of ground during this month in Europe, so give yourself a big pat on the back!

From Madrid, you can travel to lots of destinations; if you have a bit of extra time, why not turn your trip into a 5 week Europe itinerary and visit Portugal too?

Or take advantage of Madrid’s cheap flights to South America, or visit North Africa… the choice is up to you!

For this Europe itinerary, 4 weeks has been chosen as the optimum amount of time.

This is because the rail passes are most cost-effective if they are bought for a month.

But it must be stressed that Europe is such a culturally vibrant area; you could spend months in France or Italy alone.

If you have more time in Europe, why not return to the country that intrigued you the most?

There’s so much to explore in this continent, and this Europe trip itinerary is just a taster!

This is a guest post by Daniel from Travel in 35mm . Keep up with his adventures on Facebook and Instagram !

Hey! I’m on YouTube too!

I’m currently travelling from Bali to London without taking a single flight! I’m documenting my journey on YouTube and would love it if you could follow me there! Here is a video detailing the journey a bit more:

Click here to go to my channel – I’d love it if you subscribed and joined the community!

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12 thoughts on “ Your Perfect 1 Month Europe Travel Itinerary ”

Brilliant! i live in Europe but haven’t been in even half of those places yet. Nice suggestions.

This is one the amazing posts. Thank you so much. Is there any way you can provide rough expense estimate including everything? Hotels, Trains, Buses between all above locations?

It would be really helpful to know just range of amount.

Thank you so much. This is what I was looking for, for a long time. I am near my retirement age 63 yo (still very active) , I am considering touring the major cities of Europe with my granddaughter who is 15 years of age to introduce her culture and history. I don’t want to spend too much money, just the basic transportation and accomodation. You have answered many of the questions I have. Am so happy to have read your article.

Amazing! That sounds like a fantastic trip and I’m sure your granddaughter will love it. Never stop exploring! 🙂

Planning to do my trip next year. Plan to include, Rome, Portugal and Greece in my trip. Any tips you can share on how I can insert them in my travel plan base on your iterinary. Thanks.

This is great!!!!! Thank you so much for sharing!!!! This is what exactly what I was looking for as I am starting to plan our 30 day trip to Europe (scheduled for the month of July 2019). I will substitute some recomended cities for other of my interests!!!! Also, my husband and I are traveling with our 2 kids (8 and 9), hope this trip is not too much for the kids! They are looking forward to it!!!! Can you give us an idea of your total expense in those 30 days please!!!

We are planning our 1 month europe vacation for this coming June and our kids 7 and 9 y/o. Can you share your experience and some tips for our trip?

Thanks for the tips. That’s a great 30 days plan trip. Can you give us or estimate the total expenses or budget on the trip?

Superb article just reading the article gives goosebumps Please give detailed cost so that we can plan our Europe trip Thanks so much

Hi! How much do you think would the budget be for this long of a trip excluding the accommodation? I want to travel in Europe for a month as well, so I want to know how much I should save up for.

This is very detailed – thank you so much. I know there is nothing called “A budget”, it all depends on the person. But i hate to ask, how much did it cost you overall (excluding the flight tickets to london and flying out from madrid) as I will be flying from Australia. I just want to get an idea, after you landed in London and until you get out of europe to your home country please? And kindly advise if its for just one person?

Hi jen, thanks for sharing the information, i was planning to go Europe for a month in march 2016, started saving the money, and will be following your itenary, can you tell me how much i need to travel Europe for a month following your itenanry and considering low cheap hostels and what else on the trip i can save money, does travelling to bus will be cheaper option. Thanks in advance Hi Fahad, Thanks for getting in touch and I am glad you found the itinerary useful. If you are planning to follow this exact itinerary staying in hostels dorm rooms, I would say accommodation will set you back around 15 Euros a night so around 450 Euros for the month. Other costs you will encounter are food and sightseeing. If you shop in supermarkets and cook in the hostels you could save a ton on eating out. The cost of sightseeing will depend on what you want to see and do. I have lots of posts throughout this website on all of the places mentioned in this itinerary that outline what the sights cost for entry. As for the bus, yes that would be the most cost effective way to travel but it is also the slowest so you need to weigh up whether you would prefer quality time in places or cheaper prices. I hope this helps and do get in touch should you have any follow up questions. Cheers Jen

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First Timers One Month Europe Itinerary

Planning your first trip to a new region is exciting but it can be a daunting task, especially one as big and full of interesting and exciting places as Europe. With limited time it can be hard picking which places you should see on a one month Europe itinerary and which might be better left for next time.

There are a few factors that I have considered when putting together this first timers one month Europe itinerary.

Firstly, this one month in Europe itinerary is about giving you enough time in each destination to see the main sights but also have some time to just soak it all in.

Secondly, I considered logistics and how easy it is to get from one place to another. While Europe has many transport options that all make it simple to get around, when you only have one month you don’t want to be spending a week of that getting from place to place.

Finally, I considered popularity. A lot of people are reluctant to visit the popular places because they can be overcrowded and a touch touristy. Me on the other hand, I like to embrace it because really these places are popular for a reason, they are awesome!

It is nice to get off the beaten path from time to time but I believe that most people visiting Europe for the first time want to experience the places and sights everyone is talking about.

This one month in Europe itinerary is by no means comprehensive, but what it does give you is an overview of what I think you shouldn’t miss on your first visit to Europe. Feel free to use this as a guide, or a starting point and plan from there by adding more stops or removing any places you don’t fancy.

Getting Around Europe

In Europe I have travelled by bus, plane, boat and train all at different times and for different reasons. For this itinerary and for the easiest and most convenient way to travel, I suggest using the extensive network of trains.

Why Travel by Train in Europe?

I’m a big advocate for train travel. And while it isn’t always the cheapest mode of transport, it is usually the most convenient. The train will usually pick you up in the centre of a city and drop you in the centre of the next unlike air travel where airports are usually a long way from the city centre.

The biggest pluses to train travel for me are how comfortable and scenic it is. Most trains come in 1st and 2nd class with 2nd class being the equivalent of 1st class in most other parts of the world. Big picture windows, and on some trains, almost entirely glass compartments, help you take in the view while you’re relaxing in your comfortable air-conditioned seat.

High speed trains also make train travel in Europe the quickest way to get around on a lot of the routes. Some trains travel at over 300km/hr!

Train Tickets in Europe

For the itinerary below, getting a rail plus is the most cost-effective and simplest way to go in terms of tickets. In most cases the pass is all you will need to board any train (except overnight sleepers and high-speed trains) at any time of day giving you the flexibility to move onto your next destination when the time suits you most.

Cost of a Europe Rail Pass

10 or 15 days in 2 months basically means that you have 10 or 15 travel days over a 2 month period. A travel day is a 24 hour period. Say you jump on a train at 9:00am one day, your travel day will end at 9:00am the next day.  On each of those travel days you’re allowed unlimited connections.

With the itinerary below, a 10 days in 2 months pass covers all 10 travel days outlined below. If you are adding any more days, then the 15 days in 2 months pass will be required. If you are cutting some stops out, you may need to look into whether point to point tickets may be a cheaper option.

One thing to be aware of is that an extra seat reservation and fee is required on sleeper and high-speed trains. The agency where you buy your pass (more on that below) will be able to sort out those reservations for you as well.

Where to Buy Europe Rail Tickets

European rail passes are not available to buy in Europe, so it is necessary that you are organised and buy them before you leave home.

Visit the Rail Europe website in your home country using the links below to purchase tickets and rail passes.

One Month Europe Itinerary

Paris – 4 Days

Things to See & Do in Paris

Paris is the perfect place to start a 4 week Europe itinerary and will give you a heavy dose of art, culture and food to get you started. Check out some of the best museums in the world, The Louvre and d’Orsay to name just two. Take a ride up the iconic Eiffel Tower for views over the city. Cathedral lovers will love Notre Dame, Saint Chapelle and Sacre Coeur . For a bit of people watching, take a stroll down the Champs Elysee or through the Tulleries and  Luxembourg Gardens . And why not add a half day trip out to visit the Palace of Versailles .

Read More About Paris

30 Things to Do in Paris

The Best Tours in Paris for Sightseeing

The Best Day Trips from Paris

Suggested Paris Tours

Hop-on-Hop-off bus tour

Louvre Museum Skip the Line

Seine River Cruise

Arc De Triomphe Skip the Line

Eiffel Tower Priority Access

Palace of Versailles Skip the Line

Where to Stay in Paris

Here are three accommodation options to suit all budgets that I recommend you check out. All are centrally located, highly rated and come with excellent facilities. You can also check out my whole post dedicated to places to stay in Paris here .

Budget – Hotel Marignan

Mid-Range – Hotel Le Relais des Halles

Luxury – Four Seasons Hotel George V Paris

What to Eat in Paris

Croissants  for breakfast, baguettes with fresh cheese and cured meats for lunch and warming soups , casseroles and steak frittes for dinner. And then there’s the sweets. Delicate macarons , eclairs and other French pastries can be found in the most amazing smelling shops. Or pick up a crêpe smothered in nutella chocolate spread or lemon and sugar from vendors on the street.

Bruges – 2 Days

Travel Time Between Paris and Bruges

Paris to Bruges on a direct train service takes about two and a half hours. More frequent services run with one change in Brussels and take about the same amount of time.

Things to See & Do in Bruges

Take a wander around the Old Town , through the Main Market Square , and down the cobblestone streets past beautiful medieval architecture . Cruise the romantic canals past some of the city’s most romantic spots. Climb the steps of the Belfry for views over the city. Visit the Church of Our Lady to see Michelangelo’s Madonna and Child.

Read more about all the things to do in Bruges here .

Suggested Bruges Tours

Beer and Chocolate Tasting Tour

Bruges Private Highlights and Hidden Gems Tour

Bruges Electric Scooter Tour

Where to Stay in Bruges

Here are three accommodation options to suit all budgets that I recommend you check out. All are centrally located, highly rated and come with excellent facilities.

Budget – B&B Lady Jane

Mid-Range – Monsieur Maurice

Luxury – B&B Le Foulage

What to Eat in Bruges

Chocolate , chocolate, chocolate! And once you’re sick of chocolate, try some waffles (with chocolate of course!) or Frites which are hot fries with mayonnaise. Yum!

Amsterdam – 3 Days

Travel Time from Bruges to Amsterdam

Bruges to Amsterdam by train requires one change in Brussels with the journey taking no more than three hours.

Things to See & Do in Amsterdam

You can’t come to Amsterdam without checking out its famous canals . Whether it’s on foot, abroad a canal boat or riding a bike , you could spend your whole three days just exploring them. But if you want to fit in a few more things, I highly recommend Anne Frank Haus to learn about the young woman and her family’s story. You can also visit a few other world-class museums like the  Rijksmuseum , Van Gogh Museum and Rembrandt House to name a few. Or take a cheeky walk around the famous Red Light District at night.

Read more about all the things to do in Amsterdam here .

Suggested Amsterdam Tours

Red Light District Walking Tour

Rijksmuseum Museum Skip the Line

Van Gogh Museum Skip the Line

City Canal Cruise

Zaanse Schans Windmills

Countryside Bike Tour

Where to Stay in Amsterdam

Budget – Hotel Prinsenhof

Mid-Range – Hotel Sebastians

Luxury – Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam

What to Eat in Amsterdam

For some quintessential Dutch food, find yourself some raw herring , if you can stomach it. Grab a Kroket from a vending machine or some Frites from a street vendor. Or take a seat in a café to order some Erwtensoep , traditional split pea soup with other vegetables and pork. And to finish with something sweet try the poffertjes which are mini pancakes or stroopwafel , thin chewy waffle like biscuits.

Berlin – 3 Days

Travel Time from Amsterdam to Berlin

Amsterdam to Berlin can be done by direct train or with one change in Hanover. Travel time is about six hours.

Things to See & Do in Berlin

Make a beeline straight to the iconic Brandenburg Gate to start your visit. From there it’s an easy walk to most of the city’s must see sights like the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe to reflect on the city’s terrible history. Visit a  bunch of great museums on Museum Island , take a ride up the Berlin TV Tower for views of the city and see some of the remaining parts of the Berlin wall, including the section that’s been converted into an outdoor art gallery, East Side Gallery .

Read more about all the things to do in Berlin here .

Suggested Berlin Tours

TV Tower Skip the Line

Hop-on-Hop-off Bus

Walking Tour

Third Reich and Cold War Walking Tour

Reichstag Dome & Government District Tour

EasyCityPass

Berlin War & Cold War History Cycling Tour

3-Hour Street Art Tour

Where to Stay in Berlin

Budget – Ibis Budget Berlin  Kurfürstendamm

Mid-Range – Pension Absolut Berlin

Luxury – Regent Berlin

What to Eat in Berlin

You’re in Germany so a giant schnitzel  or a pork knuckle is a must. For some street food try the currywurst which is basically sausages with curry sauce. Berlin is a very multicultural city so you will find food from just about every country in the world represented across the city and done very authentically.

Prague – 3 Days

Travel Time from Berlin to Prague

Berlin to Prague trains run direct and takes less than 5 hours.

Things to See & Do in Prague

Avoid the craziness of Charles Bridge with an early morning stroll. Visit Prague Castle  to step back in time and for views of the hundred spires across the city. Wander the old town cobblestone streets. Watch the Astronomical clock do it’s thing in the Old Town Square.

Read more about all the things to do in Prague here .

Suggested Prague Tours

Prague Castle Skip the Line

Jewish Quarter Walking Tour

Beer & Traditional Dinner Tour

Ghosts and Legends Walking Tour

1-Hour Vltara River Cruise

Prague City Card

Where to Stay in Prague

Budget – Ragtime

Mid-Range – Motel One Prague

Luxury – Four Seasons Hotel Prague

What to Eat in Prague

Food in Prague is cheap if you stay away from the main tourist areas. Wander down the back streets to find traditional restaurants selling hearty goulash with dumplings and fish soup to help warm you up on a cold day. Try some local pork sausages with a typical accompaniment of sauerkraut . And wash it all down with some of the best beers in the world.

Salzburg – 2 Days

Travel Time from Prague to Salzburg

Prague to Salzburg takes about six hours by train with one change in Linz.

Things to See & Do in Salzburg

Get your Sound of Music on with a tour of this famous movies filming locations. Walk around the old town checking out some of the best examples of Baroque architecture in the world. Dance around the Pegasus Fountain (Sound of Music reference) in the beautiful Mirabell Gardens . Enjoy the incredible views from Hohensalzburg Fortress . And learn more about the genius that was Mozart at his once birthplace which is now a museum.

Read more about all the things to do in Salzburg here .

Suggested Salzburg Tours

Original Sound of Music Tour

Hallstatt Tour

Salzburg Card

Hohensalzburg Fortress Admission Ticket Skip the Line

Walking Tour of Salzburg

Where to Stay in Salzburg

Budget – Pension Jahn

Mid-Range – Gastehaus im Priesterseminar Salzburg

Luxury – Hotel Goldener Hirsch

What to Eat in Salzburg

Similar cuisine to that of neighbouring country Germany. You’ll find big schnitzels , hearty pork knuckles with sauerkraut and traditional soups in the winter. For something sweet try a strudel or the national favourite,  Nockerl .

Exploring Austria by Car: A 5 Day Itinerary

Venice – 2 Days

Travel Time from Salzburg to Venice

Salzburg to Venice can be done on an overnight train taking seven hours or during the day with one change in Villach taking around six hours.

Things to See & Do in Venice

Whether it’s in a gondola or vaperetto, you must take a ride on the famous canals of Venice . Get lost wandering the winding cobblestone streets . Spend some time taking in the atmosphere of  St Mark’s Square, watching the people and the pigeons. Explore some of the outer islands of Burano , Murano or Lido to see a different side of Venice.

Suggested Venice Tours

St Mark’s Basilica Skip the Line

Venetian Lagoon Tour

Gondola Tour

Doge’s Palace Priority Admission

2-Hour Walking Tour

Where to Stay in Venice

Budget – Hotel ai do Mori

Mid-Range – Albergo Casa Peron

Luxury – Hotel Danieli

What to Eat in Venice

Unfortunately Venice is touristy and overpriced when it comes to food. Try to stay off the main tourist trail and get lost in the back streets to find traditional tavernas serving Italian food of pizzas , pastas and antipasto plates of cured meats . And don’t forget to finish every meal with a gelato !

Rome – 4 Days

Travel Time form Venice to Rome

Venice to Rome takes around three and a half hours by direct train with almost hourly departures.

Things to See & Do in Rome

Get a taste of Roman life in the centre of one of Europe’s biggest cities at the Colosseum and Roman Forum . Visit the inspiring and ancient Pantheon . Spend time in some of the city’s best public spaces like the  Spanish Steps , Campo de Fiori and Piazza Navona . Visit another country, Vatican City , to see some of the worlds most incredible masterpieces and get the chance to come face to face with the Pope . And of course you must throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain so you can one day return to Rome.

Read more about all the things to do in Rome here .

Suggested Rome Tours

Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Skip the Line

Authentic Italian Cooking Class

Street Food Tour

Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill Tour

Where to Stay in Rome

Budget – Roma Trastevere Station

Mid-Range – Al Viminale Hill Inn & Hotel

Luxury – Hotel Raphael – Relais & Chateau

What to Eat in Rome

You are in Italy so that means pizza , pasta , fresh salads and antipasto . Get off the main tourist drag to find the authentic tavernas , restaurants and cafes. Although the Italians are not huge on dessert, a slice of tiramisu or a canoli is a must. And eating gelato at least once a day is mandatory!

Florence – 2 Days

Travel Time from Rome to Florence

Rome to Florence takes just one and a half hours with services departing a few times every hour.

Things to See & Do in Florence

Art is the biggest drawcard in Florence and you can see some of the worlds best at the Uffitzi Gallery including the famous Statue of David . Check out the massive Duomo which dominates the square it sits on. Walk over one of Europe’s most atmospheric bridges, Pont Vechhio .  And shop for leather goods in the Mercato Centrale .

Read more about all the things to do in Florence here .

Suggested Florence Tours

Accademia Gallery Skip the Line

Tuscany Day Trip

Florence Dome Climb Skip the Line

Uffizi Gallery Small Group Tour

Where to Stay in Florence

Budget – Hotel Por Santa Maria

Mid-Range – Casa Pucci

Luxury – Portrait Firenze

What to Eat in Florence

As with Venice and Rome,  pizza and pasta will dominate the menus. A specialty of the region is steak , specifically Florentine t-bone steak which is cooked to perfection. I guarantee it will be the best steak you’ve ever had!

Read More About Italy

The Best of Italy by Train: A Two Week Itinerary

10 Day Italy Itinerary

Nice – 2 Days

Travel Time from Florence to Nice

Florence to Nice can take up to seven hours by train with two changes required in Genova or Milan and Ventimiglia.

Things to See & Do in Nice

Take a walk along the Promenade des Anglais on the water front. Explore the winding lanes of the old town looking for tiny cafes and bars. Enjoy the Mediterranean waters with a swim. Take a train to Cannes to see where the rich and famous come to play for the yearly film festival. Or head to the tiny country of Monaco to mingle with the wealthy at Monte Carlo Casino .

Read more about all the things to do in Nice here .

Suggested Nice Tours

Monaco & Monte Carlo Tour

Lamborghini Driving Experience

Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus

Where to Stay in Nice

Budget – Hotel des Dames

Mid-Range – Ibis Styles Nice Centre Gare

Luxury – Hotel Negresco

What to Eat in Nice

You’re on the sea so seafood is fresh and at its best. Dine near the port for restaurants serving the freshest catches. Lots of fresh produce is used in fresh salads and dishes with a distinct Mediterranean flavour. Fish stew is the must try dish and don’t miss out on trying the world-famous Nicoise salad .

Read More About France

The Best of France: A Two Week Itinerary

10 Days France Itinerary: See the Best of France

Barcelona 3 Days

Travel Time from Nice to Barcelona

Nice to Barcelona by train takes around eight hours with two changes required in Marseille and Montpellier.

Things to See & Do in Barcelona

Take a long stroll down Las Ramblas to be entertained by street performers and lots of people watching opportunities. Check out the mark left on the city by Gaudi at Sangrada Familia , Park Guell and Casa Batllo all of which are some of the most famous Spanish landmarks . Wander the Gothic quarter to see some of the city’s best Gothic architecture.

Suggested Barcelona Tours

Sagrada Familia Skip the Line

Park Guell Admission

Barcelona Card

Flamenco Show

Where to Stay in Barcelona

Budget – Hotel Curious

Mid-Range – Yurbban Trafalgar Hotel

Luxury – Serras Barcelona

What to Eat in Barcelona

For a meal shared with friends, find a small tapas bar to enjoy small plates of food including freshly cut jamon , creamy croquettes , fresh seafood like sardines and bite sized omelette . For a bigger meal try the seafood paella , a rice dish cooked in one pan and topped with fresh seafood and meat. For sweets you can’t go past churros , a sugar or cinnamon coated long doughnut.

Over to you!

What is top of your list of places to visit in Europe? What would you add to this one month Europe itinerary for your own trip?

Let me know using the comments section below or join me on social media to start a conversation.

Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed this post.

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110 thoughts on “First Timers One Month Europe Itinerary”

It’s only when you start planning a trip in Europe, you realise just how many countries and places to see there are! This is about as comprehensive a list as its going to get, but the one main omission is London, which would be a good place to perhaps start, and then get the train through to Paris after a few days.

Thanks Dave. I agree London is a great place to start but in this case I omitted it because having spent so much time in the UK, I believe London and the UK deserve another trip altogether.

hi its been a lifelong dream of me to travel all over europe for a month to 45 days . i just dont know where to start from. ive been to venice, switzerland , italy and france and may want to skip them except for paris. can you recommend an itinerary from what country to start with. thank you

Hi Florenda. I have more itineraries which can be found on this page. Hope this helps you plan your perfect trip! Cheers Jen

Where do I sign up? 🙂 This sounds fantastic! And I like how you have the train as the transportation so the countryside can be seen too!

Thanks Gretta! The train is definitely the way to travel whenever possible I think.

Great list! We’ve been travelling in Europe for the last 2 months (for the first time) and it’s a pretty daunting place to plan for. We started in London then few to Romania and are now in the Greek islands. Our favourite places so far have probably been Budapest, Transylvania and Santorini.

Santorini is amazing isn’t it! Hope you continue to enjoy your European adventures.

For a break from cities, it might be worth venturing in to the mountains for an activity break. You can get to the Ecrins National Park and the Southern french Alps really easily on the train from Marseille and have access to a full range of activities from skiing, snowshoeing, husky sledding, sleeping in an igloo in the winter to canyoning, via ferrata, rock climbing, white water rafting, paragliding, walking, biking etc in the summer.

Thanks Sally. There are tons of great areas like this throughout Europe. If you have more than a month I would definitely suggest visiting a few of them.

Wow just looking through this is making me excited! I’m planning a month long trip to Europe for 2016 and this has been so helpful! Thank you! I just wanted to know, how much was the budget for this? Thank you!

Hi Angela. So glad you found this useful. This trip can be done on any budget you just need to make some alterations to the type of accommodation, where you eat and what you see in each place. If you’ve got a small budget then stay in hostels or even try couch surfing, eat bigger meals at lunch time when it’s cheaper and shop in supermarkets and for activities there are lots of free walking tours in Europe and museums generally have a free day each month too. Happy planning!

thank you for this information

Glad to help.

May I ask how much was your spending for this trip?

Thank you! Brandon Lee

Hi Brandon, This isn’t a trip I have done all at once myself. I’ve done it in bits and pieces. The budget for this would be entirely up to your personal choice depending on the type of accommodation you choose, the places you eat and what you see along the way. A good ball park figure for a budget to moderate traveller is around $100 a day. This will get you a dorm bed in a hostel, transport, simple meals and entrance to a few attractions. Hope this has been of some help. Cheers Jen

I was wondering the same thing. Thanks for this! Though my fiance and I are going to use this trip itinerary (with a few tweeks here and there) for our honeymoon. My question is, what if we dont want to share a hostel? Being a honeymoon and all, privacy would be nice but we also dont want to spend a bunch of money. We’re doing this on as much of a budget as possible. Any suggestions on where to look, or would the “moderate” level hotels you listed be the the best choice?

Hi Haley, Congrats on the upcoming nuptials You must be very excited! Hostels have fantastic private rooms as well as dorms and they are very affordable, usually cheaper than most budget hotels. Some have private bathrooms, others you will be sharing facilities, so shop around until you find exactly what you are after. If you would like some specific recommendations based on where you are going I would be happy to help. Just email me at [email protected] . Hope you have a great honeymoon! Cheers Jen

Hi This is really very helpful . I am excited.Thank you so much for this fantastic itinerary. We are planning to travel this April with a 2 year toddler for one month. Do you think that we can make it through out the month with a toddler and yeah with rent a car . Please suggest

Thank you so much

I love this!!! I am planning to do a Europe trip for a few weeks in the fall so this is awesome. I will use this for future reference!

THanks Holly. Glad this has been of some help and I hope you really have a great time in Europe.

I love this! My husband and I are planning a 7 week trip in Europe for the fall 2015 (2 weeks in the British Isles and 5 weeks on the continent). Your itinerary includes most places we were planning to visit on the continent, so we will definitely use a big chunk of it! I’m 39 and it is my first time ever in Europe (I’m Canadian), so I planned a pretty good budget for it, enough to include a Eurail pass. The only changes I would make is stopping in Geneve to visit a friend, and skipping Spain to spend more time in France (400 years ago, my ancestors came to Canada from France! And French is my first language). Oh and we will make it to Danemark, as my husband has relatives there. Anyway, thank you very much for taking the time to put this itinerary together and post it! Websites like your are priceless for inexperienced travellers like me! 🙂

Thanks Karine. I really appreciate your kind words. I hope you have a lovely time in Europe and I’d love to hear all about it when you return. Feel free to email me anytime. 🙂

hi! how much do you suggest I should bring if I follow the itinerary you posted above? 🙂

Hi Danielle, The amount you spend on this itinerary will depend entirely on your level of comfort for transport, accommodation and food. I’d be happy to talk about this more with you via email ( [email protected] ) at any time. Cheers Jen

Hi jen, thanks for sharing the information, i was planning to go Europe for a month in march 2016, started saving the money, and will be following your itenary, can you tell me how much i need to travel Europe for a month following your itenanry and considering low cheap hostels and what else on the trip i can save money, does travelling to bus will be cheaper option. Thanks in advance

Hi Fahad, Thanks for getting in touch and I am glad you found the itinerary useful. If you are planning to follow this exact itinerary staying in hostels dorm rooms, I would say accommodation will set you back around 15 Euros a night so around 450 Euros for the month. Other costs you will encounter are food and sightseeing. If you shop in supermarkets and cook in the hostels you could save a ton on eating out. The cost of sightseeing will depend on what you want to see and do. I have lots of posts throughout this website on all of the places mentioned in this itinerary that outline what the sights cost for entry. As for the bus, yes that would be the most cost effective way to travel but it is also the slowest so you need to weigh up whether you would prefer quality time in places or cheaper prices. I hope this helps and do get in touch should you have any follow up questions. Cheers Jen

hi, this is a very useful itinerary as I’ve wanted to go travelling for years but I didn’t know where to start. I’m only 16 but I’m planning on making this trip in 2018 after I’ve finished my A-levels. I know prices will change between now and 2018 but I was wondering roughly how much you think I would need to save up (including money for places to stay, food, travel). I worked out that I would need roughly £1500 for travel and accommodation but I haven’t even considered food yet. Does that price sound about right for a month of travelling and overnight stay? Thank you in advance x

Hi Charlotte! Thanks so much for reading my itinerary. I am so impressed that you have these dreams and I really hope you get to live them out in 2018. The cost will depend entirely on what type of accommodation you plan to stay in, whether you’d be eating out the whole time or cooking for yourself sometimes and how many paying attractions you would visit. Also what type of transport you’d be taking. The cheapest way to do it would be staying in dorms in hostels, cooking say 50% of your meals, travelling by bus and only doing one or two of the paid attractions in each place. For that I think £1500 for transport and accommodation would be sufficient and then add another £20 a night for accommodation, £20-30 for food per day and £20-30 per place for attractions. I hope this helps and please feel free to email me any time with any follow up questions [email protected] Cheers Jen

Hello, my husband and me along with our son are planning Europe trip at end of April 2016 for the first time. We are middle aged and big nature lover, rather mountain lover, to be specific. Hence we would like to avail the scenic train routes of eurail and other regional trains as far as practicable to explore the countryside and of course, would like to include Switzerland (Bernina Express/ Glacier Express) by reducing time for other cities. Can you please guide us?

Hi Sharmila, Thanks for your comment. Your trip sounds wonderful. We don’t have too much experience exploring the mountains and nature of Switzerland as we have taking in mostly the cities so far (would love to in the future though). We did do one scenic train from INterlaken to Lucerne called the Golden Line which was amazing. I have heard that the ones you mentioned are even better, so you are on the right track there. This website ( https://www.rhb.ch/en/panoramic-trains ) has tons of good info on those two trains you mentioned including good route maps. If you have any more specific questions, please feel free to email me ( [email protected] ) at any time and I’ll be happy to help. Cheers Jen

Hello, I have the possibility of going to Europe soon, if I go forward with it, it would be in January. The idea is to go for a full month, on my own. I am 19 and I’d like to have an idea on the budget I’d need for this. Also, I’d like to know what other things I can do, removing some of the cities you name in this itinerary (Bruges, Berlin, Salzburg), since I’d have more days in each of the remaining cities.

Thank you in advance, Juan.

Hi Juan, Thanks for your comment. Budget will depend entirely on what type of accommodation you choose to stay in, how you choose to eat meals, the mode of transport you choose and how many paying sights you visit. Feel free to email me ( [email protected] ) with more specifics and I’ll be happy to help you out with budget. As for more things to see and do in the cities you will be visiting, check out these posts which provide you with info on everything i recommend. Paris – https://thetrustedtraveller.com/tag/paris/ Amsterdam – https://thetrustedtraveller.com/tag/amsterdam/ Prague – https://thetrustedtraveller.com/tag/prague/ Rome – https://thetrustedtraveller.com/tag/rome/ Hope this helps. Cheers Jen

This is an awesome itinerary and this will help me in march on my 1 month trip to europe.. probably ill start in amsterdam and last stop is italy.. thank you so much!!

My pleasure Jvista. So glad I could help and have a great trip.

I really enjoyed your article, I found it very helpful. I’m planning to travel Europe next year for a month however I have not decided which month would be best to go. When do you think I should go, I was thinking May but I’m not 100% sure.

Hey! May is a great time of year because the weather is generally fine and the crowds haven’t quite descended on the region yet. Equally good is September/October. The summer crowds are gone and the weather is still comfortable. Hope this helps.

HI Jen, do you think this itinerary would work in December-January? I know it’s cold, but it’s our long summer break in NZ.

Cheers, Craig

Hi Craig No problems at all with travelling Europe in winter. It is just a different experience. Everything will be open as usual and you’ll get to visit the Christmas Markets as well. Hope you enjoy! Cheers Jen

This article was wonderfully helpful! Are the days listed including the arrival / departure date?

Thanks so much Seleena. I am glad it is of help to you.

With 4 days in Paris at the beginning and 3 in Barcelona at the end, there is definitely room to arrive and depart within this itinerary. However If you have the time I would suggest at least arriving the day before or early on the first day to make the most of your time.

Hope this helps and don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any other questions.

Hi Jen, I enjoyed reading your list. I’m planning a trip to South of France, Italy (Pisa, Amalfi Coast) & Greece. This will be my retirement 1-time-in-a-lifetime trip to Europe. This has been my goal for over 10 years now. I’ll do it by car cause I’m a photography fanatic and just have to be by the ocean. I love the notes on Pisa & Florence. My dream is to “get lost” in Toscani, traveling to every hidden place and every little town I can find, I want to meet the people get to know the culture and learn their cooking and music…. I’m traveling with no return date. And I want to own my time, the places I want to stop to take pix and the places I want to stay just cause. So any recommendations on Toscani and the Amalfi coast will be greatly appreciate it. I’m looking for good places to stay and eat that are nice but don’t break my budget. Also, what would you recommend, a Spring or autumn trip? I have subscribed to you page and hope to get lots of info I can use. Thank you so much.

Thanks so much for getting in touch. Your trip really does sound amazing and once in a lifetime.

In Tuscany we recommend visiting Siena and San Gimignano at the very least. Siena is one of the largest towns in Tuscany but it has lovely winding cobblestone lanes, beautiful architecture (check out the main square) and great atmosphere. It also get quieter in the evening and early morning when there are no day trippers there. San Gimignano is much smaller and is the town on the hill with the iconic towers. Its a lovely place to wander around for a day.

On the Amalfi Coast we recommend staying in Sorrento. It is much cheaper than the towns on the Amalfi Coast but is still easily accessible. From Sorrento you can drive along to the Amalfi Coast or do what we did and take a ferry hopping on and off whenever you see something you like. From Sorrento you can also access the Isle of Capri. At night join the locals as the walk off their meals. the main street of Sorrento is closed to traffic in the evening and the locals parade up and down chatting to their friends and family. It a really night laid back tradition. In the town of Amalfi right on the waterfront was a really nice little pizza place which we loved and had the best pizza we’d had in all of Italy. Sorry I don’t recall the name.

As for other places to eat in both areas, we are not good a remembering to get the names of the places we enjoyed.

Both Spring and Autumn are good times to travel in Europe. There is less people and the weather is generally fine with sunny mild days and cool nights. If you want to avoid the heat I would visit in Autumn after summer but if you’d prefer to avoid the cold then I’d suggest Spring.

I hope this helps and if you have any more questions please feel free to email us ( [email protected] ) and we’d be happy to help.

All the best for your trip.

Wow! Amazing article and comments too read them all. Planning a trip in Jun 2016 for 2 weeks. From Dubai to Birmingham (return ticket)- then Following your itinerary can you please guide us with the transportation (train) and how much it will cost per person. Is there a unlimited pass for the train for two weeks and much cheaper than a regular once. Thank you

Hi Margie, Thanks, I am so glad you found this useful. Train tickets are sold either point to point or in passes which give you a certain number of days travel. It will depend on how many travel days you have within your two weeks as to whether the point to point or pass would be cheaper. If you’d like to email me ( [email protected] ) with the country you live in I can point you in the right direction for checking exact prices. Unfortunately each country will have a different booking site. Cheers Jen

I am from Southeast Asia and I’ve been planning a Euro trip in 2017. I am so glad I came across this article as I don’t have a concrete plan yet as to my starting point! Thanks for this, I will use this as my guide. Cheers!

Thanks so much Love! I am so glad this itinerary will be helpful for you. Please feel free to email us if you need any travel planning assistance.

I am planning my senior trip to Europe, so stumbling across this article is a life saver. I was going to go on this trip with little notion of what to expect, due to none of my immediate contacts have ever traveled in Europe for an extended time. But, now that I have found this, I will be planning my trip around your outline- thank you!

am so glad that you have found our itinerary useful Meghan and that you have chosen to take your senior trip in Europe. I hope you have an amazing time and don’t hesitate to email us if you have any questions as you are planning.

I think this is an excellent guide for first-timer. I’d personally add the Switzerland alps into the list or one of the towns like Lucerne. Maybe London too. But other than that this would make a great introductory itinerary.

Thanks Andrew. Totally agree, London and Lucerne would both may excellent additional to this itinerary.

Hi Jen, Im planning a trip with my partner for 25 days starting mid September. Love your article and most of the places in your itinerary we are already considering. We are flying into London and from there our plans are as follows Belgìum (Ghent or Bruges) Amsterdam Berlin Prague After Prague we are unsure of where to go. We are finishing our trip and flying out of Paris. We are thinking of either going to Venice and then getting a scenic train (or trains) through swiss alps to paris. Or going from Prague to Stuttgart for the Cannstatter Volksfest beer festival. Do you have any suggestions on what would be a better option? Also do you think we are better off purchasing a rail pass or would it be better to book each trip individually? Thankyou, Clare

Hi Clare, Thanks so much and glad you found the itinerary useful. Your itinerary looks good. How long were you planning to spend in each place? I like the idea of going to Venice and then getting the scenic train, the outlook is incredible. I have also heard good things about the beerfest in Stuttgart so it is a tough one to decide on. Another alternative would be taking a train to Salzburg for a night or two and then to Lucerne in Switerland and then onto Paris. As for tickets, you would need to look it up closer when tickets are available. Depending on how many segments you are travelling will depend on what is cheaper. Usually point to point is cheaper but don’t forget that if you are travelling on high speed trains you need to factor in the seat reservation costs too. Use the links I provided in the post above to cheap prices closer to your departure. Hope this helps and please don’t hesitate to contact use if you have any follow up questions ( [email protected] ) Have a great trip! Cheers Jen

Thank you Jen for your wonderful itinerary and travel advice. We followed most of the itinerary minus Bruges and Nice but with the added stop of Madrid for 3 nights. Everything went perfectly and for first time visitors to Europe it was a fantastic introduction. We can’t wait to go back !

Thanks Tony. That is fantastic to hear! Europe is so addictive and there is plenty to see so lots of excuses to keep going back.

Super super article and comments,, thank you very much for putting things together in this organized and informative way..I’m planning for a trip in 1 month ( very late plan but I finally got the time and money to do it) so I’m a bit anxious about it and your article is relieving.. I have couple questions here: 1) We are from Canada, so where do you advise us to start the trip from? 2) also I was hoping to go to Switzerland and Austria, would these be possible options and can we use the same train ticket passes to go there?

Thanks a lot

That’s so exciting Rose! There is no time like the present.

You could start your trip from any of the cities mentioned in the itinerary. I’d suggest checking out the best flight deals from your nearest international airport to each of them to see what the best option would be.

As for adding Switzerland and Austria, that could definitely work. Salzburg is included in the itinerary already but you could add Vienna if you liked also. In Switzerland I suggest Interlaken, it is amazing! Both are included in the pass, but with Switzerland it only includes the normal trains (not scenic trains).

Hope this has been of help to you and don’t hesitate to email me if you have any follow up questions ( [email protected] ).

Happy travels Jen

Many thanks Jen!! You are amazing and I’ll follow your advises. Best

These are such great recommendations Jen. I plan to travel to Europe and this is my first time. I have just 2 weeks time off from my work in India, and I like to go slow and not cramp my travel with many countries to visit. Maybe just go to a place or two and spend time there and soak in the countries/cities.

Which are the 1 or 2 or 3 places that you would suggest I go to, in the two weeks i have? I love countryside, nature, hills, valleys, mountains, river, sea, beach. 🙂 City-life does not excite me much!

Hi Pria, Thanks for your comment and so glad you found these recommendations useful. If you love mountains and nature then I’d suggest visiting Switzerland and Italy. Both are loaded with stunning landscapes with lots of opportunity for mountain hikes and/or scenic train rides. I can recommend visiting Interlaken in Switzerland and taking the Golden Line Scenic Train or similar towards Italy. In Italy I think Tuscany is stunning, lots of rolling hills and small hill towns. You could base yourself in Florence for Tuscany and day trip from there. Also Cinque Terre is great if you like walking and beaches. Hope this helps and if you ever have any other travel questions, we’d be happy to help ( [email protected] ) Cheers Jen

I am so glad I came across this. I was looking for my son who is planning a month this summer after college. After reading your article I believe it is time to take this trip with my husband. The information you provide is wonderful. Thank you!

Excellent! So glad this inspired you to travel yourself. I hope your son and you and your husband enjoy Europe!

Hi! my best friend and I are headed for a month in Europe January of 2017. All of our housing is taken care of, because we have friends who live in different cities. We would absolutely like to go to Paris, London, Barcelona, Amsterdam, and Rome, possibly Greece to meet a friend if its possible. Any tips or insight on how we can better plan our trip? We are flying into Paris.

Hey Gabi, You must be getting so excited for your trip! This itinerary is a great place to start with your planning. It has information on the using the trains and things to see and do in all the cities you mentioned. Because of the longer distances you will be travelling, you might be better flying most of the legs. If you are flying into Paris I would suggest taking the train to Amsterdam then London and then flying from London to Barcelona and another flight to Greece. This makes the most sense to me. Feel free to email me if you have any more specific questions and I would be happy to help. Hope you have the trip of a lifetime!

I really like your Europe travel plan. And working on a itinerary on the similar lines. I have few queries though. I’m using a rail planner app (only European trains are listed in this app) to identify train schedule. ex. Venice to Munich, Florence to Venice etc. and i can see that these trails require reservation. I’m not able to find Hop-on Hop-off trains that can be used with a global pass. How should i overcome/ rectify this? As in this case a global pass may not be a cost efficient option.. 🙁 Kindly suggest.

Hi Praveen, Thanks for your message. Only high speed trains like the Eurostar, Thalys etc require a reservation. All other trains, usually slower services with more stops, can be reserved but don’t require it. You best bet would be to check with a rail booking agent in your country of origin.

Hi Jen, My wife and I are planning a trip to Europe in October this year for about 30 days and as it is our first time, I found your guide really helpful and am planning to follow it as per your recommendations. Many people I have spoken to about our upcoming trip keep saying not to cram too much in and to make sure we enjoy each place we visit without rushing around. Would you agree with their sentiments? Would you say this is one of those rushed trips where we could get burnt out, or does it provide ample time in these cities to enjoy and take in the sites, but also just relax? For a first time visit, Would you recommend a trip like this where we visit a number of countries, or would you recommend seeing about 4 countries and going deeper into each? Any help would be greatly appreciated. Cheers, Nigel

Hi Nigel, So glad you have found this itinerary useful and that you will be visiting Europe for the first time. What I find makes people more burnt out is long travel days. That’s why when I put together this itinerary, I made sure that the travel time between each place wasn’t too long. This gives you more time to spend in each place and as we all know, travel days really do take it out of you. I always recommend at least 3 nights in a big city and at least 2 nights in a smaller city. This principal I have used in my itinerary. This will give you time to see the key sites that interest you the most but also allow you time to just wander and soak up the atmosphere. If you are planning to head back to Europe again sometime, narrowing the destinations down a little this trip will give you more time to explore each place in more depth and have some time to relax in between. But remember, whatever alterations you make to the itinerary, make sure that it doesn’t increase your travel days. Hope this helps and if you need any more help please don’t hesitate to reach out to me. Have an amazing time! Cheers Jen

Thanks for these insights Jen. Really helpful. If we were to go deeper into 4 countries over the 30 days, would an itinerary that has France, Spain, Portugal and Italy be advisable? Is Portugal worth travelling to for the first time (mindful that it is off the track as well). Would you have any recommended itineraries for these countries? Thanks again, Nigel

Hello! Thanks for this article and travel tips, they’re so useful! I already bought my ticket to Spain for the summer and I’m so excited since I’ve never been to Europe. I was wondering, which is the easiest and cheapest way to go from Barcelona to Nice? I was thinking about going through the coast until I get to Cannes, or maybe Italy I’m not sure yet. But I don’t know if there is a bus company or something of some sort that takes you around the coast. Is it cheaper to fly? or is there like a bus that takes you to different points around the coast? Thank you! 🙂

How exciting! I hope you have an amazing time in Europe. If you can get cheap flights, that would be the cheapest way to go. Keep any eye on the budget airlines that fly that route, Vueling and EasyJet for sales. The next cheapest way will be by bus. You can use http://www.eurolines.com/en/ . The bus will stop at lots of different places along the coast giving you more options. Hope this helps!

This is something i have been searching for so long and ,looks like i landed on the perfect one. Do u also help in making the bookings?

Hi Shuch, Glad this has helped. Unfortunately I am not a booking agent but you can find links throughout this post to website that I use and recommend to book your trip. Always happy to help with questions!

European countries are amazing to visit. One needs to be careful as its not same as other countries. Nice article Europe First Time Traveler.

Wow. This is such a great article. We are planning a trip to Europe next June July and I will use your itinerary as a template. Thanks so much for putting so much effort into this

So glad to could help Caroline. Enjoy your trip!

Thanks for putting up such an amazing and helpful post. We are planning a Europe trip in June/July next year and this will definitely be the basis of our itinerary. We are planning a 5 week trip. Do you think we could possibly fit in Croatia and/or Greece? Any suggestions as to travel mode and where to slot it in would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks, Katie

Hi Katie, Thanks, I am glad you found it useful. With an additional week, I would suggest picking just one, either Croatia or Greece. There is lots to see in both countries and so many incredible islands. Both are a little off the route of this itinerary so a flight would probably be the most time saving way to get there and with so many discount airlines in Europe, you’d be able to get it pretty cheap too. Adding it to the end or beginning of the trip makes sense to me. Hope you have an amazing trip! Cheers Jen

Hi Jen, Thankyou for great article, you have inspired me to solo travel! I have booked plane tocket. Can you tell me does the eurorail pass take me to each countries city centre and are rhe hotels you recommend close to train stations? Kind regards Maureen

Hi Maureen, I am so happy to hear that I have inspired you! The main train station in most European cities is in the city centre or very close to it. This makes it super easy to get around. All of my accommodation recommendations for the cities in this itinerary are above in the post. I hope you have a fabulous trip! Cheers Jen

Hi Jen!, So I know it is soooo far away but I want to get this done right. I am currently in Europe (Stuttgart, DE) as an Au-Pair but I would like to travel at the end of my stay for a month. The problem is that it would have to be by mid-December and I know how traveling can get during that time specially if there is bad weather. So I was wondering if you could give some sort of tips.

Plus, the trip I am planning is with my boyfriend who is currently in America and we both know nothing about Europe and the best ways to move around it. Can we still do the same places shown above during this time of the year? If we do some sort of this itinerary, what would be the best times to take the train? Because if I understood correctly there is another price if we were to take the night train right? Please HELP

Hi Ingrid, I have never personally travelled in Europe during winter but I know many people do so I don’t think you will have any problems following this itinerary at that time of year. Train is defintiely still the best way to get around. It is quick and cost effective, plus it lands you right in the heart of each city. Not sure what you mean by the best times to take the train. However, I usually aim for a morning departure as it is just more convenient than having to find somewhere to store your bags during the day while you wait for your train. Night trains will ultimately cost you less because you won’t be paying for accommodation. However, most of this itinerary is shorter tips so it wouldn’t necessarily be possible to take a night train. I suggest night trains if you are traveling more than 8 hours at a time. Hope this helps and have a fab time in Europe! Cheers Jen

I am from Singapore and we are planning for a honeymoon trip albeit a short one of about 2 weeks.

We have decided to include London, Paris, stopover for a day in disneyland. However we are undecided for a third place. Any suggestion for a scenic place with beautiful scenary of mountain and/or sea?

I have shortlisted Austria and Switzerland. We are not intending to drive though.

We will be going during winter time between dec to jan as we want to experience the xmas markets and vibes during the winter festive season!

Looking forward for your advice.

Hi Thomas, Congrats on your upcoming wedding! Switzerland would be a great choice and easy to get to from Paris on the train. You could split your time between the mountains and the city with maybe visiting Zurich, Lucerne and/or Interlaken. All are beautiful and have lots to offer. Hope this helps and have a great trip! Cheers Jen

Thank you Jen!

We probably would take the train from paris in to basel and from there to Zurich then to Lauterbrunnen.

Can i check if during this season dec to jan if this plan is feasible?

We will probably fly out from switzerland.

Hello i like your page i am planning a European trip for 6 weeks we are doing Egypt first we then will have 6 weeks in Europe any information on where to start and finish would be great thank you

Hi Jeff, Sounds like an awesome trip. I would suggest the itinerary above but maybe adding a few extra stops in between or adding some more time in Spain or a side trip over the Greece or Croatia.

I’m planning two trips of a month each in March and July. Was thinking of covering the Mediterranean countries once and then the rest of Europe.. what do u think? Can u suggest any better ideas- would like to cover Greece, Croatia, Hungary, Italy, France, Spain and Portugal in one trip and Austria, Czech, Germany, Switzerland, Denmark, Netherlands, Belgium and the UK in the second trip.

I think I am going to start in London, to to Scotland, Ireland, Northern Ireland, then around Europe a bit. I’ve already been to Paris and Amsterdam so I plan maybe 12 days in UK and 14 days in Germany, Prague, Italy and maybe Spain. A total of about 28 days not including travel to and from Europe. Thank goodness for the train system, it really works when so many countries are so close and compact.

Hi Roohan Sounds good. Just try not to pack too much in, otherwise you will need another holiday to get over the holiday. Cheers Jen

Thank you for posting this! I am in the beginning phase of preparing for a month-long Eurotrip next year. I have been so overwhelmed with information online until I stumbled across this post. Thank you so much!! I would like to avoid the massive tourist crowds and peak season pricing, would Sept or Oct be a good month to visit?

Hi Hamila, Glad you found this useful. Yes Sept/Oct is my preferred time of year to travel to Europe. The weather is good and the summer crowds are generally gone. Cheers Jen

Hi, my husband and I are planning to visit Europe for 30-days starting this November. This is gonna be our first time and your article is really a great help for us in planning this trip. Just want to check if we can squeeze in Switzerland in this itinerary and how; Appreciate your help!

Hi Krys, Glad this was useful for you. Depends on how long you plan to spend in Switzerland. You would need to remove a place or two from this suggested itinerary. It really depends on what interests you most. Cheers Jen

Your itinerary here is amazing. Looks like most of my trip planning just got finished 🙂

I am planning a one month trip to Europe form our 30th anniversary. Do you happen to have any info on Switzerland? Her favorite place so one we must stop at.

I’m considering road tripping around Britain and Scotland, August / September next year. The preference is to tour the countryside with B & B accommodation and avoid the major cities I thought that we could have 5 or 6 different locations which we could use as a base, and therefore do day trips rather than packing and unpacking every day or two. It is envisaged that the amount of time spent at each location would be about 3 to 5 days I would be pleased if you could make any recommendations for an itinerary, also various locations and any accommodation we could use that would suit our purpose.

Thank you for sharing this itinerary. Its very comprehensive and it covers a lot of the must see as a first timer in Europe. I like the fact that you have included train transpo and budget/mid-range hotels. I will be following this itinerary on my trip to Europe.

Hii as i am travel and toursim student from India and i am very weak in Europe but because of this article i got to know so many things about Europe when I’ll be traveling to Europe this itinerary will be followed. Thank you☺

Great outline We hope to use it as soon as the Covid crisis passes.

Thank you for your time and expertise.

Thank you so much for this. I’m actually using it to plan my mum, sister and I’s trip to the Rugby World Cup in France. It’ll be our first time in Europe and we will be there for about 6 weeks, with 3 weeks in between which we will dedicate to exploring Europe so this has come in quite handy. Thank you once again xx

This is great, but I wanted to add Milan on my trip. Which country do u think i can skip?

Regards Madz

If you want to add Milan, maybe missing out on Venice or Florence which are nearby. I guess it depends on which of these places you really wanted to go to can’t can’t miss out on.

Thanks for sharing this itinerary. It is very comprehensive and covers many must-see sights for first-time visitors to Europe. I like that you include train transport and budget/mid-range hotels. I will follow this itinerary on my European tour.

Nice guide, so interesting! Thanks for sharing with us ! 🙂

Hi Jen Thanks for this my wife and I are planning a 5 week trip next year hopefully starting around en of May . Never been to Europe before only Asia, we are from Melbourne

Cheers Chris

Glad you found this helpful Chris. Hope you and your wife enjoy Europe as much as I do!

I’m trying to plan a long trip to Europe for this summer. Its very overwhelming but this article has helped a ton. Would you recommend I book a one way ticket and then when I decide to come home book a flight back wherever I end up? Also regarding housing/hostels along the way- how do I find them? Do I have to book all these in advanced as well?

Hi Faith, Glad this has been helpful. If you know exactly when you will be coming back and from where, then I suggest booking the flight back as it will be cheaper the more in advance you book it. If money isn’t an issue, then you can just book when you know. Depending on the time of year you are travelling will depend on whether I suggest you book in advance for hostels or not. If you are travelling in the height of summer you may find it hard to find a bed in some of the most popular places. Suggest booking a destination or two in advance as you go to ensure you get a bed before you arrive at least. Cheers Jen

It is so great to have your itinerary and suggestion in this page. My family is going to have a 2 month-trip to Europe this summer (from Jun 1 to July 31st). We have 6 adults and 1 child and want to save cost as much as possible. One more thing to be worried about, we come from Vietnam and we can visit Schengen countries only as we have visa of one Schengen country so pls. do advise the best itinerary for us. We will fly directly from our city to Frankfurt (German) so we have to start our trip from Frankfurt. It is so nice to have your advice. Thank you in advance.

Hi Que, Thanks for your kind words. Please feel free to email me if you would like further travel planning advise [email protected] and we can talk more about my services and your plans. Cheers Jen

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Detailed 3 Months Europe Itinerary + Costs (2024) : The Best of Europe in 3 Months

3 months in europe is a good duration to get to explore the best bits of europe. this 3 month europe itinerary has not just fun and adventurous activities but also tips and tricks to save money and the best places to stay and eat.

Spending 3 months in Europe allows you to delve deeper into the regions that interest you the most, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller.

You can explore the blue-domed Churches in  Santorini , The black sand beach in  Iceland , the architecture in  Seville  or the mountains in  Switzerland . With so many destinations to choose from, the possibilities are limitless.

After spending about 10 years exploring what Europe has to offer, here’s the best tips and tricks to save money on your 3 month Europe itinerary and visit the best places in the continent.

Read along for a complete Europe itinerary 3 months to make the most of your trip to Europe.

If you’re planning your 3 months Europe itinerary at the last minute:

Here’s the top experiences and stays you don’t want to miss on your trip

Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Bath Full-Day Tour

Lisbon: History, Stories and Lifestyle Walking Tour

From Amsterdam: Keukenhof Flower Park Trip with Transfer

Prague: Vltava River Night Cruise with Buffet

Florence: Chianti Wineries Tour with Food and Wine Tasting

Here’s where to stay on your 3 months in Europe itinerary

London – Fox and Goose hotel

Venice – Venice Maggior Consiglio

Amsterdam :   Hotel Nes

Florence: Soggiorno La Cupola Guesthouse

Budapest: Callas House

A detailed 3 months Europe itinerary

Here’s a comprehensive 3 months Europe itinerary that will take you on an unforgettable journey through some of the continent’s hidden gems, and breath-taking landscapes.

This Europe itinerary 3 months offers a myriad range of experiences that will satisfy even the most discerning traveller, so, grab a cup of coffee and prepare to be inspired by Europe’s magic and wonder.

Month 1 of your Europe itinerary 3 months

Western europe.

Welcome to the first month of your epic 3 month Europe trip!

This 3 months in Europe itinerary will begin in Western Europe, where you will have the opportunity to visit some of the continent’s most iconic and cosmopolitan cities covering the countries UK, France, Spain , Portugal and The Netherlands .

If you’d prefer spending more time here on your 3 months in Europe itinerary consider adding countries like Iceland , Ireland and the other regions of the UK like Scotland and Wales.

London, UK (5 days)

Starting your 90 days in Europe itinerary in London is an excellent way to immerse yourself in the city’s rich history, diverse culture, and iconic landmarks.

What to do in London during your 3 months Europe itinerary

A great way to explore London is to take this Big Bus Open-Top Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour , which covers almost all the major spots in the city.

Here are some of the things you could do in London:

Visit the Houses of Parliament , Big Ben and Westminster Abbey

Learn about the Tower of London’s history as a royal palace, prison, and fortress

Take a stroll through St. James’s Park to witness the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace

Take this day trip to the charming town of Windsor and its castle, Stonehenge, and the Georgian city of Bath. Adding Bath to your 3 month Europe itinerary is a fab way to get a taste of the countryside in the UK

Attend a performance in London’s famous theatre district, the West End

Explore London’s many museums, including the Victoria and Albert Museum, British Museum , the Natural History Museum, and the Science Museum

Walk around Covent Garden, checking out the shops, street performers, and cafes

Explore Camden Town’s vibrant neighbourhood and bustling market

Visit the National Theatre or Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre to see a play or musical

Take a ride on the London Eye, a giant observation wheel offering panoramic views of the city

Visit the Royal Observatory and the Prime Meridian in the historic Greenwich neighbourhood

A rare find is the Fox and Goose hotel . It has a traditional pub and is close to the Underground and is about 15 to 20 minutes from the major attractions. Couples quite like it for the location and vibes!

Paris, France (5-7 days)

From London, take a train to Paris , France and spend 1 week out of your 3 month Europe trip itinerary,  exploring the City of Lights.

What to do in Paris during your 3 months Europe itinerary

You can visit the top sites in Paris by booking a  Hop-on Hop-off Discovery Bus Tour . Some of the things to do in Paris are:

Visit the iconic Eiffel Tower and take in the city views from the top.

Take a stroll along the  Seine River  and marvel at the numerous bridges and landmarks, including Notre Dame Cathedral.

See the magnificent Palace of Versailles, a magnificent symbol of France’s royal history. It’s a bit of a trek from the city centre, but worth the trip.

Visit the Luxembourg Gardens, a tranquil haven in the city’s heart or have a picnic in the beautiful Tuileries Gardens.

Explore the world-renowned Louvre Museum and its impressive collection of art and artefacts, which includes the Mona Lisa.

Take a walk through Montmartre’s picturesque streets, which are known for their bohemian vibe and artistic history. You can also book this  Montmartre Cheese, Wine & Pastry Guided Walking Tour  and indulge in some local cuisine, from croissants and pastries.

Enjoy a boat ride along the Canal Saint-Martin to discover the city’s charming waterways and hidden treasures.

See the impressive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art, including works by Monet, Van Gogh, and Degas. at the Musée d’Orsay.

Take  this day trip  to the Palace of Fontainebleau and Vaux-le-Vicomte to see its impressive collection of art and architecture.

Explore the trendy Marais neighbourhood’s many boutiques, cafes, and art galleries.

The People – Paris Belleville IEx Les PiaulesI , is a great budget stay option in Paris. This hostel, located in the Belleville district, offers both dormitory-style and private rooms at an affordable price.

French Riviera ( 5 days) – Nice, Eze etc.

Hop on a train or flight to Nice, France, to spend 5 amazing days from your 3 month Europe trip itinerary, exploring the gorgeous French Riviera.

What to do in the French Riviera during your 3 months in Europe Itinerary

Here are some suggestions on what you can do in the French Riviera:

Discover Nice’s beautiful Old Town, including the Place Rossetti, Cours Saleya, Promenade des Anglais and the magnificent Russian Orthodox Cathedral.

In Nice, see Take the bus or train to nearby Villefranche-sur-Mer, where you can explore the charming old town and waterfront.

Book  this half-day trip  from Nice to the hilltop village of Eze and the tiny principality of Monaco.

Spend a day in Cannes, which is famous for its opulent shopping, and beautiful beaches. Visit the Palais des Festivals, which hosts the Cannes Film Festival.

Take a train to  Antibes , a charming old town with a lovely marina and the famous Picasso Museum.

Visit Saint-Tropez, a glamorous and picturesque seaside resort town known for its beaches and lively nightlife.

Travel by train or bus to Marseille, France’s second-largest city, and explore its vibrant Vieux-Port and the magnificent Notre Dame de la Garde.

Take  this boat tour  to the Calanques National Park, a beautiful coastal area with clear waters and towering cliffs.

Stay at Nice at Locarno , a gorgeous property with free Wi-Fi and a breakfast buffet.

Barcelona, Spain + Montserrat, Sitges (5 days)

Next on this 3 month Europe trip itinerary, book a high-speed  train  to  Barcelona  to experience this vibrant and lively city that is known for its unique architecture, beaches, delicious food, and rich culture.

What to do in Barcelona during your 90 days in Europe Itinerary

Visit Antoni Gaudi’s iconic Sagrada Familia, an unfinished basilica designed by him.

Explore the vibrant  Park Guell  and take in the city’s breath-taking views.

Explore the Gothic Quarter, a charming neighbourhood filled with narrow streets, historic buildings, and cosy cafes.

Stroll down lively  La Rambla  and visit the Boqueria Market for fresh produce and local treats.

Soak up the Mediterranean sun on Barcelona’s sandy beaches, such as Barceloneta or Mar Bella.

Explore the nightlife in the El Raval and Gracia neighbourhoods.

Visit the Picasso Museum to learn about the famous artist’s work.

Book  this day trip  to Montserrat, a beautiful mountain range with a monastery and breath-taking views.

Try some of the local cuisine, including traditional tapas, paella, and the famous Catalan dish, calçots.

A fantastic to explore Barcelona is by booking  this Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour .

Stay at  Praktik Bakery  in the heart of the city. The best bit? Enjoy traditional breads and pastries from the hotel’s bakery, fresh and hot! Also close to most attractions in the city!

Lisbon, Sintra, Cascais – Portugal (5 days)

Next, on your Europe 3 month itinerary you can take a flight to Lisbon, Portugal’s charming capital city, located on the Atlantic coast.

What to do in Lisbon during your 3 month Europe trip itinerary

A great way to explore Lisbon is by booking this  History, Stories and Lifestyle Walking Tour

Explore Alfama’s historic district, which is known for its narrow streets, traditional buildings, and picturesque city views.

Visit the Belem neighbourhood and its famous landmarks, such as the Belem Tower, the Jeronimos Monastery, and the Discoveries Monument.

Tram 28 is a historic tram that runs through some of the city’s most charming neighbourhoods and landmarks.

Visit the Sao Jorge Castle, a historic fortress with beautiful views of the city and the Tagus River.

Take  this day trip  to the nearby town of Sintra, and the beach towns of Cabo da Roca, and  Cascais .

Explore Bairro Alto, a bohemian neighbourhood known for its lively nightlife, charming cafes, and trendy shops.

Visit the Mercado da Ribeira, a historic market that has been converted into a food hall serving traditional and modern Portuguese dishes.

Take a walk along Belem’s waterfront and take in the views of the Tagus River and the 25 de Abril Bridge.

Visit the National Museum of Ancient Art, which has a large collection of Portuguese and European art dating from the 12th to the 19th centuries.

Hotel Alif Avenidas  is a great accommodation. It is located in Lisbon’s historic centre, with private and shared rooms, and a cosy lounge area.

Amsterdam, Netherlands (4 days)

Take a flight to the vibrant city of Amsterdam, your next destination in this  Europe itinerary 3 months.

What to do in Amsterdam during your 3 month trip to Europe itinerary

Apart from delectable Dutch cheese and stroopwafels, Amsterdam has plenty of activities to do, some of them being:

Take a walking tour of the city centre to see major attractions like Dam Square, the Royal Palace, and the A nne Frank House

Visit the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum.

Take this  canal cruise  to get a different perspective on the city.

Discover the charming streets, cafes, and boutiques of the Jordaan neighbourhood.

For a tour of the famous beer brand’s brewery, visit the Heineken Experience.

See the famous window displays and learn about the area’s history and culture by visiting the Red Light District.

Explore the Museumplein neighbourhood, which is home to several museums, including the Stedelijk Museum of Modern Art.

Visit Zaanse Schans to see the traditional Dutch windmills and learn about the area’s history.

Visit nearby attractions such as the picturesque town of Haarlem or take  this guided tour  to  Keukenhof Gardens , which are well-known for their spring flower displays.

Visit local markets like the Albert Cuyp Market or the Noordermarkt.

Stay at  Hotel Nes  situated in one of the best areas in Amsterdam; a traditional canal house alongside the Amstel River. The restaurants are nearby and the rooms cosy! One of the best places to stay as per guests!

Month 2 of your Europe itinerary 3 months

Central europe.

Prepare for a whirlwind adventure as we embark on the second month of your 3 month trip to Europe, in Central Europe.

This month will be filled with art, culture, history, and delicious cuisine, from the trendy streets of Berlin to the picturesque city of  Prague , from the imperial charm of Vienna to the thermal baths of Budapest. Prepare for an unforgettable journey through Europe’s heart.

Berlin, Germany (5 days)

Hop on a train from Amsterdam to Berlin, the capital city of Germany. You can set aside 5 days in your Europe travel itinerary 3 months to explore Berlin.

What to do in Berlin during your 90 day Europe itinerary

Book this Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour to visit Berlin’s top attractions.

Visit the iconic Brandenburg Gate, Berlin’s symbol and one of the city’s most photographed landmarks.

Explore the historic Reichstag building, which houses the German Parliament, and climb to the top of its glass dome for amazing views of the city.

Learn about the events that occurred at the iconic Checkpoint Charlie, the most famous crossing point between East and West Berlin during the Cold War.

Take a walk down Unter den Linden , one of the city’s most famous boulevards lined with impressive buildings and historical monuments.

Visit the Berlin Wall Memorial and East Side Gallery to learn about the city’s division and the difficulties that East Berliners faced during the Cold War.

Visit Museum Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site that houses five world-class museums displaying ancient artefacts, art, and cultural treasures.

Explore Berlin’s trendy neighbourhoods such as  Prenzlauer Berg and Neukölln,  known for their charming streets, boutiques, and cafes.

Take this boat tour along the Spree River to get a different perspective on Berlin’s history and architecture.

Learn about the history and culture of Jews in Germany by visiting the Jewish Museum, an architectural masterpiece and one of Europe’s largest Jewish museums.

Relax and take in the dazzling views of the city from the top of the Berlin TV Tower, Germany’s tallest structure and a symbol of the city’s skyline.

Stay at Hotel 38 located in the city centre – 100 yards from the Oranienburger Tor Tram Stop, each room is done differently and is in quite a popular area with easy access to transport.

Krakow, Poland (3-4 days)

Next on this Europe itinerary 3 months, you can take a train to Krakow, a Polish city, known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and cultural significance.

What to do in Krakow during your three month Europe itinerary

Here are some suggestions on how can you spend our 5 days in Krakow:

Visit the  Wawel Castle, a former residence of Polish kings that is now a museum complex.

Admire colourful buildings and street performers as you walk around the Main Market Square (Rynek Gówny), one of Europe’s largest mediaeval squares.

Visit Auschwitz-Birkenau, the largest Nazi concentration and extermination camp during WWII. The location is now a museum and a memorial.

Visit St. Mary’s Basilica and listen to the hourly trumpet call from the tower.

Explore Krakow’s historic Jewish quarter, Kazimierz, and see the Old Synagogue, Remuh Synagogue, and Jewish Cemetery.

Enjoy a traditional Polish dinner at one of Kazimierz’s many restaurants.

Explore the  Wieliczka Salt Mine with this tour , a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Europe’s oldest salt mines. The mine contains underground chambers, lakes, and salt sculptures.

Take a  guided tour of the Schindler’s Factory Museum  to learn about Oskar Schindler and the Jewish prisoners he saved during WWII.

Visit the various museums in Krakow such as the  Krakow Museum of Contemporary Art or the Polish Aviation Museum or the Krakow Museum of History.

Visit the Tatra Mountains and explore Zakopane, a popular ski resort town with stunning Tatra Mountain views. For panoramic views of the surrounding area, take a cable car up to Kasprowy Wierch.

The Hotel Krupnicza 30  is a top-rated stay option in Krakow. It is located in the old town, 1 mile from the castle and has classy rooms. It is 4 star yet budget friendly!

Prague, Czech Republic (1 week)

Take a scenic train journey from Krakow to spend 1 week in Prague in your 3 month itinerary Europe.

What to do in Prague during your three months in Europe itinerary

There is a lot to  see and do in Prague  also called the  ‘Golden City’, here are some suggestions:

Visit  Prague Castle, one of the world’s largest castle complexes.

Explore St. Vitus Cathedral, a magnificent example of Gothic architecture.

Cross the famous Charles Bridge, which is lined with 30 saint statues.

Visit the Old Town Square and see the 600-year-old astronomical clock.

Visit the Sedlec Ossuary, a chapel decorated with human bones, by taking a  day trip to Kutna Hora .

Visit Wenceslas Square, a historically significant location that witnessed many of the city’s pivotal events.

Take a tour of Prague’s Jewish Quarter to learn about the city’s Jewish history.

Visit the National Museum to learn about the Czech Republic’s history and culture.

Take a  river cruise on the Vltava River  to see the city from a new angle.

Take a walking tour of the Lesser Town and enjoy the stunning views from the Petrin Tower.

Enjoy a soothing bath at one of the city’s well-known beer spas.

Explore the nearby Karltejn Castle, one of the most well-known castles in the Czech Republic.

Visit the lovely Konopit Castle, the former home of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria.

Savour traditional  Czech cuisine

Explore the art and architecture of the Municipal House, one of Prague’s most beautiful Art Nouveau structures.

Explore Kampa Island and see David ern’s famous sculptures.

Book your Prague stay at the  Hotel CUBE Prague , located quite close to Charles bridge and other attractions. It has clean rooms and great service with rooms that come with coffee machines. It is also quite budget friendly even in peak season!

Austria (5 days)

Take a 4-hour train journey to explore Vienna and enjoy a glimpse into the opulence of the Habsburg Empire during your 3 months travelling Europe. You can check out this amazing  5-day Austria Itinerary  if you want to explore more

What to do in Vienna during your 3 month Europe itinerary

Visit the famous  Hofburg Palace, a former imperial palace that now houses several museums and the famous Spanish Riding School.

Take  this guided tour  of the  Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens, the former imperial summer residence.

St. Stephen’s Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture, is a must-see.

Explore the Kunsthistorisches Museum, one of the world’s largest art museums, which houses a significant collection of European art.

Visit the Vienna State Opera, one of the world’s foremost opera houses.

Visit the Belvedere Palace, a stunning Baroque palace that now houses an impressive collection of Austrian art.

Visit the  Naschmarkt , Vienna’s largest outdoor market, which sells a wide range of food, beverages, and other items.

Attend a performance at the renowned Musikverein, which is home to the Vienna Philharmonic and one of the world’s most renowned concert halls.

Book  this day trip  to the nearby Wachau Valley, a scenic region known for its vineyards, castles, and charming towns

Have lunch at the historic  Demel bakery , which is famous for its delectable pastries and desserts.

You can stay at the MEININGER Hotel Wien Downtown Sissi . This hotel in Vienna’s Leopoldstadt district is within walking distance of the city centre and offers modern rooms with free Wi-Fi.

Budapest, Hungary (3-5 days)

Hop on a short train ride from Vienna to explore the ‘Paris of the East’,  Budapest .

What to do in Budapest during your 3 months Europe itinerary

Here are some  things to do in Budapest  during your 90 day Europe itinerary:

Book  this guided city tour  and explore the Buda’s Castle District, Gellért Hil, Heroes’ Square and the magnificent Hungarian Parliament Building.

Walk across the Széchenyi Chain Bridge and take in the view of the Danube.

Take in the panoramic views of Budapest from Castle Hill and Fisherman’s Bastion.

Visit the Matthias Church, a lovely neo-Gothic church in the Castle District.

Relax in a famous thermal bath, such as Széchenyi Bath or Gellért Bath.

Visit the Great Market Hall to try Hungarian cuisines such as goulash, chimney cake, and langos and buy local products.

Take  this Danube River cruise  and admire the cityscape from the water.

Visit the House of Terror Museum, which depicts the horrors of Hungary’s fascist and communist regimes.

Visit the Dohány Street Synagogue while strolling through the Jewish Quarter.

Take a stroll down Andrássy Avenue and pay a visit to the  Hungarian State Opera House .

Admire the Vajdahunyad Castle’s eclectic mix of architectural styles and the stunning art nouveau structure of Gresham Palace.

Visit Memento Park, an open-air museum displaying communist-era statues and memorials in Hungary.

Ride the Budapest Eye, a massive Ferris wheel located in Erzsébet Square.

You can book a room at Callas House , located right next to the Opera house, that’s close to most attractions. It is in one of guests’ favourite areas and the rooms are quite spacious!

Month 3 of your Europe Itinerary 3 months

Southern europe.

Welcome to Month 3 of your 90 day Europe itinerary! You’ve already travelled through Central and Western Europe, so it’s time to head to sunny and warm Southern Europe. Prepare to immerse yourself in Mediterranean culture, visit ancient ruins, indulge in delectable cuisine, and bask in the warm sunshine.

Athens, Greece (3 days)

Athens, the capital city of  Greece , is an ancient city rich in history, culture, and mythology. You can book a flight from Budapest o Athens, which will take around 2 hours. You can also explore  Athens in a day  and save other days for other gorgeous destinations.

What to do in Athens during your 3 months Europe itinerary

Take  a guided tour  of the Acropolis, Parthenon, & Acropolis Museum..

Explore the ancient Agora, a key centre of Athenian life during the classical period.

Visit the Temple of Olympian Zeus, Greece’s largest temple and one of the best-preserved ancient Greek temples, the Temple of Hephaestus.

Explore the historic Plaka district, which is known for its picturesque streets, shops, and restaurants.

Visit the National Archaeological Museum, the Benaki Museum, and the Museum of Cycladic Art

Visit the Panathenaic Stadium, where the first modern Olympic Games were held in 1896.

Explore the Roman Agora’s ruins, including the Tower of the Winds and the Gate of Athena Archegetis.

Explore the historic neighbourhoods of Psirri and  Anafiotika.

Climb Mount Lycabettus for panoramic views of Athens and its environs.

Visit the stunning Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion, which is known for its stunning sunset views.

Book this  Gourmet Food Tour  and explore the bustling Athens Central Market (Varvakios Agora), and enjoy traditional Greek food.

Arethusa Hotel  located next to the Plaka is close to the Metro station and is tastefully decorated. There’s a roof garden with great views and its close to most attractions!

If you’re planning to explore the Greek islands, Santorini is perfect with direct flights from Athens. Mykonos is also a fab option!

Dubrovnik, Croatia (5 days)

Dubrovnik, also known as the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’ is a stunning Croatian coastal city. There are plenty of things you can do in the city during your Europe itinerary 3 months, some of them as follows.

What to do in Dubrovnik during your 3 month Europe itinerary

Walk along Dubrovnik’s city walls, which provide stunning views of the city and the Adriatic Sea.

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Dubrovnik’s historic Old Town by booking  this guided walking tour  and visit Dubrovnik Cathedral, and Rector’s Palace among other major spots

Take a boat ride to Lokrum, a nearby island with a beautiful botanical garden and a 12th-century Benedictine monastery.

Take the cable car up Mount Srd for sweeping views of Dubrovnik and the surrounding countryside.

Take a sea kayaking tour of the coastline and caves of Dubrovnik.

Explore the exhibition War Photo Limited and the Dubrovnik Maritime Museum

Take a day trip to Ston, a nearby town known for its ancient walls and salt pans.

Relax on Banje Beach, a popular swimming and sunbathing destination.

Explore the Dubrovnik Synagogue, the world’s oldest Sephardic synagogue still in use.

Take  this Game of Thrones-themed tour  to see some of the popular TV show’s filming locations.

Stay at  boutique Villa Dorma , located in a quiet area of Dubrovnik’s Old Town, just a few minutes walk from the city walls and major attractions.

Venice, Italy (3 days)

Next on this 3 month tour of Europe, take a flight to the  ‘Floating City’, Venice and explore its intricate canals, stunning architecture, and rich culture.

What to do in Venice during your 3 month Europe itinerary

Book  this guided tour  of St. Mark’s Square and the Doge’s Palace.

Take a gondola ride through Venice’s canals to see the city’s unique waterways.

Visit the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, a modern art museum containing works by Picasso, Pollock, and others.

Go on a  tour of the island of Murano to see the famous  Murano  lass being made and the island of  Burano  to see its colourful houses and enjoy seafood

Visit the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute, a stunning Baroque church at the Grand Canal’s entrance.

Explore the Cannaregio neighbourhood’s quiet and picturesque backstreets.

Visit the Gallerie dell’Accademia, an art museum specialising in Venetian Renaissance art.

Spend the evening watching the sunset over the Grand Canal.

Stay at the Venice Maggior Consiglio , located in the Cannaregio neighbourhood, just a 10-minute walk from the Rialto Bridge.

Florence, Italy (5 days)

The last destination on this 3 month Europe travel itinerary  will be the Italian city of  Florence, renowned for its Renaissance art and architecture.

What to do in Florence during your 3 months Europe itinerary

Book  a guided tour of the Accademia Gallery  to see Michelangelo’s David statue.

Visit the Florence Cathedral, Giotto’s Campanile, and the Baptistery as you walk around Piazza del Duomo.

Explore the Uffizi Gallery, one of the most famous art museums in the world.

Take a walk across the  Ponte Vecchio , a famous bridge lined with jewellery stores.

Visit Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens, which were once home to the powerful Medici family.

Discover the Mercato Centrale, a bustling indoor market filled with vendors selling local food and wine.

Take  this guided tour  of the famous Chianti vineyards for some food and wine tasting.

Visit the Basilica di Santa Croce, the world’s largest Franciscan church and the final resting place of many famous Italians, including  Michelangelo  and Galileo.

Soggiorno La Cupola Guesthouse is a beautiful stay option in Florence, featuring stylish rooms with free Wi-Fi.

Tips for travelling around Europe 3 months

Backpacking Europe 3 months can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but making the most of your trip requires careful planning. Here are some suggestions to help you make the most of your three months in Europe:

Plan a rough Europe itinerary 3 months ahead of time, but be willing to change it as you go.

Pack lightly and wisely, opting for versatile clothing that can be mixed and matched.

Stay in low-cost accommodations such as hostels.

Take public transportation, such as trains, buses, or metros, to get around.

Look into free or low-cost activities such as walking tours or visiting local markets.

For low-cost meals, try local street food or local supermarkets.

Don’t be afraid to meet new people and make new friends.

Stay safe by being aware of your surroundings, avoiding dangerous areas, and keeping your belongings secure

You’ll be prepared for your 3 month trip to Europe if you follow these tips. Enjoy the journey.

Big Bus Open-Top Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour in London

Lisbon: Pena Palace, Sintra, Cabo da Roca, & Cascais Day Trip

Amsterdam: Classic Boat Cruise with Cheese & Wine Option

Berlin: Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour with Live Commentary

Berlin: 1-Hour City Tour by Boat

Krakow: Auschwitz-Birkenau Tour

Krakow: Oskar Schindler Factory Guided Tour

From Prague: Kutná Hora and Ossuary Tour

Vienna: Schönbrunn Palace & Gardens Skip-the-Line Tour

Vienna: Wachau, Melk Abbey, and Danube Valleys Tour

Budapest: Grand City Tour with Parliament Visit

Budapest: 1-Hour Sightseeing Cruise

Athens: Acropolis, Parthenon, & Acropolis Museum Guided Tour

Athens: Gourmet Food Tour

Dubrovnik: Old Town Walking Tour

Dubrovnik: The Ultimate Game of Thrones Tour

Venice Doge’s Palace & St Mark’s Basilica Skip-the-Line Tour

Florence: Skip-the-Line Accademia Guided Tour

• The People – Paris Belleville IEx Les PiaulesI

The Loft Hostel ,

Home Lisbon Hostel

St Christopher’s Inn Berlin Mitte

Bubble Hostel

Hostel EMMA

MEININGER Hotel Wien Downtown Sissi

City Circus Athens

boutique Villa Dorma

With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and diverse cultures, Europe offers a wealth of experiences that are both unique and unforgettable that can only be experienced if you spend 3 months in Europe.

3 month Europe itinerary FAQs

How to travel europe for 3 months.

The best way to Travel within Europe is by train. These are fast and more affordable than flights.

Can I take a 3 month Europe road trip?

Yes, you can take a three-month road trip through Europe, but you must carefully plan your three month Europe itinerary, ensure you have all necessary documents and permits, and budget for fuel, tolls, and parking fees.

What is 3 month Europe trip budget?

The approximate cost of a 3 month vacation in Europe for budget travellers would be €50-€70 per day for lodging, food, and transportation. This would bring the total cost of the trip to between €4,500 and €6,300. It’s also important to consider extra costs like sightseeing activities, travel insurance, and visa fees (if applicable).

Award-winning Analyst, multi-nominated digital content creator and photographer Lavina Dsouza's words capture stories about culture and tradition mainly through its food and people. She has written and contributed to publications such as The Washington Post, Lonely Planet and Matador Network, to name a few. She is the editor of UntraditionalHumans.com, a non-profit created to share inspiring stories from women of colour who break free from traditions and choose happiness.

She's also a speaker passionate about DEI and champions solo travel. She has collaborated with numerous renowned brands such as Intrepid Travel, TripAdvisor, Travel and Leisure and Adobe, to name a few.

She can be found on Twitter and Instagram.

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1 Month Europe Itinerary

by Sharyn McCullum | Last updated Dec 5, 2023 | Europe live work and play , Itineraries

Visit places you have only dreamed of on your 1 month Europe itinerary!

You have one month holiday and you want to spend it travelling around Europe. I know just how you are feeling. Excited. Daunted. Maybe a little stressed at how many amazing places there are and how you will fit seeing them all in to a 1 month Europe itinerary? But it doesn’t have to be.

In this post I will show you the best places to visit and advise you on some of the ‘must’ things to do and see in Central Europe. Plus, I provide an idea of how many days you will need to make the most of your time in each country with some added European city accommodation options. Plus provide options of how to travel to and in each European country destination so you can decide the best Europe trip route to follow. And lastly, help you to work out your 1 month Europe trip cost.

Whether you are traveling through Europe as a solo person, in a couple or family you can adapt this month long European itinerary to suit your travel style. Get ready to start planning your best of Europe itinerary for your 1 Month in Europe. This perfect Central Europe Itinerary for first timers I’ve written can be done any time of the year. So yes, you can  travel around Europe in winter or travel around Europe in summer, or the other seasons making the most of this itinerary.

Table of Contents

When is the Best Time to Visit Europe?

Anytime, is the best time to visit Europe in my opinion as every European season has something different to offer! Your first challenge to organising your own 4 week Europe itinerary is working out when is the best time for you to visit for your European vacation. You may be governed by your employer or an event as to when you must take your holiday but if not, you have some things to consider.

Summer in Europe

Most first-timers to Europe are likely to choose to travel through Europe during the warmer summer months of June, July and August. This is when Europe is not only at its warmest but also its busiest and most expensive. If you don’t mind the European heat with lots of crowds at popular tourist attractions and also paying a little more for your accommodation, transport and other services then summer time will be great for you to travel around Europe.

READ MORE : If you’ve chosen to travel around Europe in the summer months you will need an idea of Europe summer outfits plus essentials for traveling in Europe. Check out my summer Europe packing list for ideas of what to pack. Packing List for a European Summer Holiday.

Winter in Europe

Winter time can be magical in Europe with lots of snow capped mountains, Christmas markets and warm drinks inside in front of fireplaces. If your aim is to do some skiing or snowboarding then a visit in winter is a must. Perhaps you want to extend your month in Europe to work and ski some of the best European ski centres ? Or perhaps you want to include snowy destinations during your winter in Europe itinerary. Crowds over the winter months of December, January and February will be less in major tourist areas but some attractions may close during this time. If there is some specific European attraction you want to visit I would suggest you make sure it will be open when you will be there.

READ MORE : If you’ve chosen to travel around Europe in the winter months you will need an idea of Europe winters outfits plus essentials for traveling in Europe. Check out my winter Europe packing list for ideas of what to pack. Packing List for a European Winter Vacation

Spring in Europe or Autumn in Europe

Spring and Autumn are also great times to visit Europe. The weather is milder and potentially more comfortable for travel. Crowds will only be beginning or slowing down and you might save a few dollars on accommodation, transport and other services during these off-peak seasons. Spring and Autumn in Europe for a month are popular for these reasons.

Is One Month Long Enough in Europe?

If I had the choice I would spend a lot longer than one month in Europe. I would probably choose a 2 month Europe itinerary or a 3 month Europe itinerary – if I had the time. But one month in Europe is a very good start to discovering the amazing countries in Central Europe. One month in Europe will allow you to visit all the best parts of Europe. And this itinerary includes visiting 8 countries in 4 weeks.

Now before you read any further, I must warn you that this itinerary of Europe is jam-packed with things to see and do every day. Providing you with as many opportunities as possible to experience Europe. Some days you will need to be very prompt on your departure to fit everything in. So how long to visit Europe? How long have you got? One month in Europe is a great beginning. Afterall, I did this exact 1 month Europe itinerary for my first visit to Europe!

1 Month Europe Trip Cost?

To work out how much it will cost to visit Europe for a 4 week Europe itinerary, I suggest you create a budget. Now everyone’s budget will be different mostly because of the style of accommodation you choose to stay at, the amount of meals you purchase and how many attractions you visit. To give you a good idea of the cost of your Europe trip, list it out as follows:

Airfare or transport to Europe _____ Transport to travel around Europe _____ Accommodation 28-30 nights @ _____ Food _____ is this included? Is breakfast included in accommodation stay? Extras _____ ie. entrance fees to museums and other sites Travel Insurance ______

LWPT Tip : If you have chosen to visit Europe during the summer months, I advise you book everything in advance. From accommodation to popular attractions booking in advance will ensure you have somewhere to stay and help you skip-the-line with pre-booked tickets. Believe me, queues to enter some tourist sights can be very long. I book all my accommodation through Booking.com and I buy tickets to the sites I want to see through GetYourGuide .

LWPT Tip : With the exception of the UK, most of the Central European countries in this itinerary belong to the Schengen Zone. This means, you won’t need a visa for individual countries as the Schengen Visa allows you to travel freely between the countries in this zone. But find out what visas are required for the countries you plan to visit.

How to Travel Through Europe

Europe is well serviced by plenty of different transport options so the continent is well linked and a rather easy place to get around. Here are the general travel options for getting around Europe. You can choose one or link different modes of transport together for your European vacation.

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Sharyn McCullum – Travel Writer / Blogger, Remote On-line Worker, sometime Digital Nomad and Travel, Live and Work Abroad Expert. Is a chocoholic, coffee connoisseur and lover of ’80s music. Been travelling all her life thanks to her dad who worked for an airline. Lived in London 4 years on a working holiday. Has holidayed in Hawaii over 15 times and currently calls Melbourne, Australia home. Is inspiring others to live work play travel around the world with this blog. Read more about Sharyn here.

42 Comments

Wow, this is quite the itinerary. There are definitely a lot of places here I need to visit and the ones I’ve been to I agree that they are worth being on this list. That’s what I love about Europe is that everywhere is so close. Train travel in Europe is the best

What a dream itinerary. I need to go back to Europe and see some of these places I haven’t been to, like Brussels and The Netherlands.

This was my itinerary the first time I went to Europe. It is jam packed with all the major things to see and do in the most popular must-see cities when you have never been to Europe before. I hope you get to Brussel and the Netherlands also.

Wow, this is such great information! I’d love to visit someday. Thanks for sharing 🙂

I’m glad you enjoyed the information and I hope one day you will be able to visit Europe.

Wow, this is very helpful info. Following this itinerary would definitely show you lots of great spots in Europe. It’s just crazy to think about how much there is to see around this continent!

Agree. There is so much to see and unfortunately you can’t see it all in 1 month. This is why I have done the itinerary to help first-timers to Europe work out what they should see and do during their month in Europe. Then hopefully they will return in the future to see other things.

great information for planning and breaking down cities so you can do part of the route if you don’t have a month

It’s a great guide for an independent travel through Europe. I’d like to travel by trains most of the time, even though it’s expensive. I guess if you book your tickets in advance, prices are not that high. isn’t it?

I like trains for the simple fact you can get a sleeper. Major suppliers of tickets like Eurail often have specials so I suggest you regularly check in with them to get a good price.

Unless I was renting a car, I think I would prefer to go via train. From past experiences the trains have been really good in the European countries. This is an awesome list you’ve put together and has given me some ideas for my next trip!

As a French and an European person I really like your itinerary! It will allow people to see the best of Europe! And also trains are a great way to travel and allow you to see the landscapes at the same time!

Talk about giving me wanderlust! I have been lucky enough to visit a number of these amazing cities, but there are just so many out there. We loved Venice last summer, particularly seeing it without the usual crowds. Milan and the pink palace in Nice are next on my list!

Sounds like you love visiting Europe. It is always good to have list of places to visit next. I’d love to hear more about your travels so please comment further once you have travelled further.

I would love to spend a month in Europe! So many great places to see. You have provided a great itinerary for first timers with heaps of tips.

It seems that most people get a month’s holiday so the itinerary is aimed at them. However, I am in the process of writing a 2 month itinerary – you may want to look at that too!

What a great itinerary! I miss being able to change countries by car, train or bus – nice to see wonderful Europe and a one-month itinerary. Thanks for sharing!

When you only a month holiday, this itinerary will help you see all the ‘must sees’. I miss Europe also.

The French Riviera has long been on our bucket list for Europe. We have wanted to go to St.Tropez and Cannes forever – they look absolutely stunning. And especially after visiting Paris? I feel like it would be an ideal baby moon

St Tropez and Cannes are stunning places to visit on any European vacation. I hope you manage to get to both.

A great itinerary that includes some fabulous European cities & sights! Thanks so much for sharing!

Great itinerary for visiting Europe and by train makes it easy with large cities. I love road tripping through Europe, have yet to try out hopping on train through Europe. Just did London, Paris and Germany by train from my home country the Netherlands.

I’ve been to most of these places but never all in one trip, what a fantastic itinerary and I love the multiple Italy stops too, that’s what I always struggle with because there’s so much to see in Italy!

Great itinerary! So many amazing places on your list. I’ve been to most of them, but I still need to hit Florence. I love that train travel is so easy in Europe, I have such a fear of flying, so it’s ideal for me!

Europe has such great transport infrastructure – trains and buses – to travel Europe. I hope you get back to Florence. Me too – I don’t like flying. I spent 42 days at sea, sailing from Southampton to Sydney as I couldn’t get on a plane!

Great guide to visiting central Europe! I’ve been to a few places like Vienna, but this guide is definitely making me want to plan a road trip!

Oh wow, this itinerary is amazing! You’ve highlighted some great cities and sights to see. I’ve not made it to Vienna, Salzburg and Brussels and would love to check them out

This is a great roundup of some of the best spots in Europe! I would love to visit Milan, Nice and several other great places on this list.

This is a great post, thank you! I did 1 month in Europe a few years ago and a similar route, but missed spots mentioned! I would love to go back and Belgium and Nice. Thanks for sharing!

Central Europe is a popular route to follow. I hope you get back to Belgium and Nice soon.

I wish more Americans would take a month instead of a week to try to see Europe in it’s entirety. I love the canals in Amsterdam. The light tour is new since I was there. It looks beautiful.

The longer the better I say! A week is way too fast to enjoy the different cultures of Europe. I wish Americans would / could stay longer in Europe also.

I love having a longer visit to Europe to take in so many great spots. Your month in Europe includes some new spots that we have not yet visited in Germany. We would definitely travel by train for most of the visit. With car rentals for day trips that may be hard to do any other way.

What an amazing itinerary! I would love to take a month to visit Europe, maybe when I retire.

Thank you. I hope you can get to Europe before you retire! But if that is when, that is when.

Your itinerary is impressive, particularly your decision to use trains instead of planes. Europe’s rail network is exceptional, and the picturesque scenery is not to be missed. Great!

This itinerary looks jam packed with fantastic information, the list of locations is impressive and super helpful for someone who’s never been. I never thought about taking the train around Europe but it makes so much sense to, and you get to see the countryside along the way!

LOVE posts like this this which have so many great tips, and include a flow and geography already organized… I would love to someday have a whole month for an adventure like this!

Great itinerary for one month in Europe! I love the tips of when to visit, what mode to use for travel, and what to see in each place. We found that Eurail is convenient and easy to use in Europe plus road trips are great too since distances are relatively shorter. 🙂

I often dream about getting to take a sabbatical from work so I can travel for an extended period of time, but alas. I’d love to do this itinerary someday though — you got to cover so many places! :]

Could this be done in the opposite direction? Going from London to Brussels and working backwards?

The two personality dimensions extraversion and neuroticism were described in his 1947 book Dimensions of Personality. It is common practice in personality psychology to refer to the dimensions by the first letters, E and N.

E and N provided a two-dimensional space to describe individual differences in behaviour. Eysenck noted how these two dimensions were similar to the four personality types first proposed by the Greek physician Galen.

High N and high E = Choleric type High N and low E = Melancholic type Low N and high E = Sanguine type Low N and low E = Phlegmatic type The third dimension, psychoticism, was added to the model in the late 1970s, based upon collaborations between Eysenck and his wife, Sybil B. G. Eysenck.

Eysenck’s model attempted to provide detailed theory of the causes of personality. For example, Eysenck proposed that extraversion was caused by variability in cortical arousal: “introverts are characterized by higher levels of activity than extraverts and so are chronically more cortically aroused than extraverts”.

Similarly, Eysenck proposed that location within the neuroticism dimension was determined by individual differences in the limbic system. While it seems counterintuitive to suppose that introverts are more aroused than extraverts, the putative effect this has on behaviour is such that the introvert seeks lower levels of stimulation.

Conversely, the extravert seeks to heighten his or her arousal to a more favourable level (as predicted by the Yerkes-Dodson Law) by increased activity, social engagement and other stimulation-seeking behaviours.

https://colorpersonality.edublogs.org/2024/03/16/how-personality-can-be-defined-in-a-biological-manner/

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The Ultimate 1-Month Europe Itinerary for Families (2024)

Looking for a 1 month Europe itinerary ? Europe is one of the most beautiful, unique and memorable continents to visit. You are guaranteed to experience the rich history, art and culture, fabulous food, great people and iconic European landmarks on a month-long trip to Europe.

Planning a 1 month itinerary in Europe can be a challenge, as there are many great cities to experience. If you are travelling with family in Europe, you also need to make sure you have an amazing Europe with kids’ itinerary!

The good news is that we have a perfect itinerary for your family trip across Europe in 30 days, offering amazing cities, family-friendly accommodation and straightforward travel solutions. 

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through a link. Please see my   full disclosure  for further information.

Table of Contents

1 Month in Europe Itinerary Map

Don’t forget to plan ahead when visiting Europe:

🛫 Book cheap flights with WayAway

Get up to 10% cashback on flights with WayAway Plus ! Use the code EuropeanCitieswithKids2023 for 10% off a plus membership.

🛏️ Find the perfect place to stay with Booking.com , or discover your perfect holiday home 🏨 with VRBO

🚗 Find the best car rental deals with Discover Cars

🎫 Book amazing tours and tickets with Get Your Guide

How to Travel Around Europe

There are lots of transport options for travelling around Europe. Here’s what you need to know, so you can choose the right mode of transport for your family:

Travelling Around Europe By Car

Travelling around Europe via car is an excellent option if you are travelling with kids and luggage on a 1-month Europe trip.

The sample Europe itinerary provided offers great 1 month travelling ideas, but with a car, you can easily visit additional places as you are not relying on public transport.

Check out the road rules before you visit/left or right side of the road driving. You can get Eurotrip route ideas from Via Michelin .

View hire car prices and availability for your dates here >>>

Travelling Around Europe by Train

Trains are a great way to travel on your 1 month trip to Europe.

There are many high-speed trains, so you can relax and enjoy the scenery once on board, making this one of the best ways to travel in Europe with family.

Booking online in advance is recommended as you will secure cheaper rates / travel passes.

View tickets and passes here >>>

Flying in Europe

Europe has many options in terms of airlines, with major carriers connecting large European cities as well as budget airlines (EasyJet, Ryanair and Wizz Air) offering great flight prices (additional charges for luggage, seat selection etc.)

You also need to consider travel to and from the airport, but a short flight can allow you to fit more into your 30- day Europe trip itinerary.

View flight prices and availability for your dates here >>>

Europe By Bus

 If you are looking at more of a backpacking trip through Europe with kids than taking bus or coach options offers (if you can travel light), this offers a really cost-effective Europe trip. J

ourneys will inevitably be a bit longer, but it is a great option if the kids have some activities to keep them entertained or can sleep.

Accommodation in Europe for Families:

There is plenty of choice in terms of accommodation for your 1-month tour of Europe. Whether you are looking for budget, mid-range or luxury hotels or a mixture of all three, booking as early as possible is the best option.

Apart from saving money, you can ensure that you are in an area suitable for families.

Another option is to stay in guesthouses, B&B’s, apartments, apart-hotels or pensions. Some of the latter options have more space as well as offering self-catering facilities – perfect for a family trip. Check Booking.com for the latest deals.

Best Time to Visit Europe

Choosing when best to visit Europe can be tricky as you need to factor in the different climates and events that you want to fit in as you travel across Europe for a month.

It is best to consider the positives and negatives of each season, then work out what is the best fit for your family.

In warmer weather, summer is great, so sightseeing and travelling on your 1 month Europe itinerary will be more enjoyable.

The temperature can be high in the Southern part of Europe , but you can counter this with early or later excursions. Many attractions are a lot busier during the school/summer holidays, so booking in advance is a good idea.

Winter is a magical time to visit Europe, particularly over Christmas. If your family loves winter sports such as skiing or snowboarding, there are many great locations in Europe to enjoy these activities.

However, travel in the colder weather may be trickier as there is a strong possibility of rain and snow.

The shoulder months blend these issues in terms of the changeable weather and number of tourists. If you can travel in early Spring or early Autumn, better weather and fewer tourists are more likely.

You may also want to consider visiting at the time you find the cheapest flights and accommodation options .

1 Month Europe Itinerary for Families: A Complete Family Trip to Europe Itinerary

If you’re planning a Europe itinerary of up to 1 month, why not use this this 1 month Europe itinerary:

Days 1 to 3: London, UK

Start your 1 month Europe trip in London. The art, culture and history is amazing, and the city has a real vibrancy.

Highlights include Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Houses of Parliament, London Eye and St James’ Park. Enjoy shopping on Oxford Street and Harrods, then head to Covent Garden for lunch, craft markets and street artists.

Don’t miss an opportunity to see a West End show or a Shakespearean play at the Globe Theatre. Two to three days in London is a perfect way to begin your Europe travel itinerary.

Where to Stay in London with Kids

Novotel London Tower Bridge is a Great-value hotel with stylish and spacious family rooms – two children (under 16) can stay free, with breakfast when sharing a room with adults. Families have access to video games, baby equipment, a healthy children’s menu and late check-out on Sundays.

View prices and availability for your dates here >>>

Park Plaza Westminster Bridge London is a Great mid-range hotel on the South Bank of the Thames, opposite Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament.

You can walk to the London Eye, aquarium, restaurants and theatres in less than 5 minutes. The hotel has a swimming pool, cafes and restaurants (including kids’ menus). View prices and availability for your dates here >>>

Hilton London Bankside is a Stunning hotel with an indoor pool, restaurant, gym, cocktail bar and luxury beds. The hotel is close to the Tate Modern and Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, with great links via Waterloo Station.

The interconnecting rooms are perfect for families, and added touches, like the sweet stall on arrival, set this hotel apart.

View More Places to Stay for Your Dates:

More on The UK – View our UK Homepage

Oxford City Break

Cambridge City Break

Days 4 to 7: Paris, France

Paris is a magical and memorable city, so it is well worth spending four days of your 1 month Europe itinerary here.

Must-see activities include the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Art Gallery and Notre Dame cathedral, as well as a boat trip on the River Seine. Centre Pompidou is an amazing museum to visit with kids (buy a ticket for the escalator, which takes you through the colourful tubes on the outside of the building to the rooftop).

Montmartre is beautiful: a traditional Parisian neighbourhood just north of Paris, home to Sacre Couer Cathedral as well as cobbled streets, quaint shops, cafes and street artists.

Disneyland Paris is about an hour from the city centre and well worth a day trip with the kids.

How to Get to Paris from London:

Eurostar: Take the train from St Pancras Station to Gare du Nord, Paris, in just over two hours. There is also the option to take your car on Eurostar.

Flight: Flights from London airports take just over one hour, and you can secure budget prices. View London to Paris flights for your dates ><<<

Ferry: You can travel from Dover to Calais, then take a high-speed train from Calais to Paris (another option is to take your car on the ferry) the entire journey takes 6 to 8 hours.

Bus: Direct coach from London Victoria Green Line Coach Station take 11 hours to Paris (Place du Pantheon).

Where to Stay in Paris with Kids

Le 12 Hotel 41 : This hotel offers a great value junior suite with balcony and a fabulous city view, as well as a family-friendly location in the 8th district. The rooms are modern, well-equipped, and comfortable, with continental breakfast and bike rental available.

Dream Hotel Opera 45 Stylish hotel in the 9 th district, close to Tuileries Gardens and Opera Garnier, with the Louvre museum 15 minutes away.

There are two- or three-bedroom apartments with private hammam access, cots are also available. The hotel is close to Galeries Lafayette, shops, cafes and restaurants. View prices and availability for your dates here >> >

Hotel Regina Louvre 53 Luxurious hotel in the heart of the city, overlooking the Louvre and Tuileries Gardens, with views of the Eiffel Tower.

The décor in the hotel is stunning, and the spacious family rooms are exceptional too. There is an inviting breakfast room, bar and restaurant with lovely outside seating areas and a kids’ menu available.

Days 8 to 10: Bern, Switzerland

The third destination for your 1 month in Europe trip is the Swiss capital of Bern .

The charming Old Town is surrounded by the Aare River and has stunning architecture, including the still-working Zytglogge (astronomical clock dating back to 1530), gothic Munster Cathedral and many fountains statues and shops to explore.

Bern is named after the German word for bear, and the BarenPark (Bear Park) is on the banks of the river and home to several bears. The Gurten is the local mountain overlooking Bern and a short tram and funicular ride from the Old Town, so a perfect day trip.

The kids will love the many playgrounds, miniature trains, riding cars, observation tower and plenty of green space.

How to Get to Bern from Paris:

Train: Paris Bercy has a direct train to Bern once a day and additional services to Basel SBB (the stop before Bern where you can transfer). The journey takes 4.5 hours via direct train.

> (opens in a new tab)” href=”https://tp.media/r?marker=298899.1%20month%20europe&trs=424&p=4692&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.expedia.co.uk%2Fcar-hire” target=”_blank” rel=”noreferrer noopener sponsored” class=”ek-link”>Compare hire car deals here >>

Flight: Flights from Paris CDG to EuroAirport Basel Mulhouse Freiberg (BSL) Basel take just over one hour and you can secure budget prices. There is a 20-minute transfer bus from the airport to Basel train station, then take one of the regular trains to Bern in one hour.

View Paris to Bern flights here >>>

Where to Stay in Bern with Kids

Alpenblick Bern Family-friendly, good value hotel located close to the Old Town with great rooms (bunk beds for the kids!) as well as a café and restaurant on site. Breakfast can be delivered to your room, and cots/extra beds are available too.

Hotel Savoy : Modern, elegant and mid-priced hotel situated in the old town of Bern. Many of the main sights in Bern are within walking distance, as are the quaint shopping streets and restaurants. The rooms are very spacious and comfortable.

Hotel Bellevue Palace Bern : Splash out with a stay at this 5-star palace hotel in the centre of Bern, located in an Art Nouveau building dating back to 1913. The hotel has luxurious family rooms with stunning views of the Alps or the River Aare.

More on Switzerland :

Facts About Switzerland

Basel City Break Guide

Days 11 to 14: Munich, Germany

Munich is a great city to visit as part of your 30-day Europe trip. The city is home to unique museums, huge parks, fairytale castles, and many family-friendly cafes and restaurants.

Munich’s Old Town is beautiful, including Marienplatz (central square) where the impressive Rathaus (Town Hall) and the 100-year-old Glockenspiel with daily shows is located.

The English Garden is in the centre of Munich and is one of the most extensive urban gardens in the world, with lots of family-friendly activities.

Olympia Park is also a great place to visit for the kids to let off steam. The fairytale Neuschwanstein Castle is arguably one of Europe’s best family day trips.

How to Get to Munich from Bern

Train: Take the train from Bern Bhf to Munich Hbf in 5 hours, with one change at Zurich. This is the best combination in terms of price and speed. > (opens in a new tab)” href=”https://tp.media/r?marker=298899.1%20month%20europe&trs=424&p=4692&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.expedia.co.uk%2Fcar-hire” target=”_blank” rel=”noreferrer noopener sponsored” class=”ek-link”>Compare hire car deals here >>

Flight: Direct flights from EuroAirport Basel Mulhouse Freiberg (BSL) to Munich Airport take one hour but can be quite expensive (c. €400 per person). See if you can find a good deal for your dates here >>>

Where to Stay in Munich with Kids

H2 Hotel München Olympiapark : Great location in central Munich, family-oriented and good value.

The beds are comfortable, the rooms are stylish, and there is a sun terrace, café and restaurant on site. Olympia Park and the BMW Welt/Museum are close by, and the UBahn (Metro) provides quick transfer across the city.

Citadines Arnulfpark Munich : Apartments only 2km from the old town. This aparthotel is a great option as there are separate living and sleeping areas and a modern kitchen. You can get a continental breakfast on-site or visit the many cafes/restaurants nearby. Cots available/small charge for extra beds. >> (opens in a new tab)” href=”https://tp.media/r?marker=298899.1 month europe&trs=154055&p=2076&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Fde%2Fcitadines-munich-arnulfpark.en-gb.html%3F” target=”_blank” rel=”noreferrer noopener sponsored” class=”ek-link”> View prices and availability for your dates here >>>

Andaz Munich Schwabinger Tor Luxury 5-star hotel between the English Garden and Olympia Park, with spa, gym, swimming pool and a rooftop bar with fantastic views over Munich and the Alps. There are three restaurants and a café that serves stunning food. Cots and extra beds are available.

More Places to Stay in Munich:

More on Germany:

Germany Facts

Berlin with Kids

Days 15 to 17: Vienna Austria

Vienna is a not-to-be-missed stop on your 30-day Europe itinerary. The City of Music is famous for its majestic castles, palaces, churches and gardens, which the kids will love exploring (Schonbrunn Palace, Hofburg Palace and St Stephen’s Cathedral are breathtaking).

Vienna State Opera is considered one of the best opera houses globally, so booking tickets in advance is worth booking.

The kids will enjoy a visit to the Prater amusement park, including a ride on the iconic Ferris Wheel, Madame Tussauds, parks, a planetarium and the Schweizerhaus for traditional Austrian food.

Café culture is extremely popular in Vienna, too, don’t miss trying the delicious cakes and desserts!

Read More About Visiting Austria with Kids here >>>

If you’re visiting near Christmas, make sure you visit the Austria christmas markets .

How to Get to Vienna from Munich

Train: Take the direct train from Munich Hbf to Vienna Central Station in just over 4 hours. > (opens in a new tab)” href=”https://tp.media/r?marker=298899.1%20month%20europe&trs=424&p=4692&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.expedia.co.uk%2Fcar-hire” target=”_blank” rel=”noreferrer noopener sponsored” class=”ek-link”>Compare hire car deals here >>

Flight: Direct flights from Munich Airport to Vienna International Airport (VIE) take just over one hour (c. €100 per person). You can then take a taxi, train or airport bus to central Vienna, only 18km. 

Where to Stay in Vienna with Kids

Hilton Vienna Danube : Beautiful location on the banks of the River Danube, a short metro ride to the city centre, and very close to Prater amusement park. An open-air riverside pool and bicycle paths along the Danube are outside the hotel.

HeyMi Apartments The apartments are in the centre of Vienna in a fantastic building, with each apartment having a kitchen area and plenty of space.

There is a park with a playground opposite the apartments and an ice cream cafe around the corner, so its perfect for the kids.

Boutique Hotel Stephansplatz: Fabulous hotel in the heart of Vienna, opposite Saint Stephen’s Cathedral and close to many museums, palaces, shops and restaurants.

The hotel is exceptionally family-friendly, with welcome gift bags for the kids, thoughtful touches for the adults, lovely rooms, décor and great food. A great place to recharge half way through your month-long Europe trip itinerary.

  View prices and availability for your dates here >>>

More on Austria:

Innsbruck with Kids

Days 17 to 20: Venice, Italy

The Floating City is an unbelievable place and one of the top places to visit on your 1 month European itinerary. Built on 118 islands in the Venetian Lagoon, separated by canals and linked by 400 bridges, the kids will enjoy exploring the meandering streets and taking an infamous Gondola ride.

St Mark’s Basilica, Doge Palace (one of the best museums of Europe ), and St Mark’s Square are not to be missed.

The kids will love visiting one of the many carnival mask-makers shops (San Polo area) or the glass-blowing island of Murano. Carnival is held during February/early March: an enchanting festival with parades, concerts, markets, ornate Venetian masks and fabulous costumes!

How to Get to Venice from Vienna

Train: Take the direct train from Vienna Central Station to Venice Santa Lucia in approximately 7.5 hours. The station is located on the Grand Canal in the Cannaregio district. Get your tickets here >>>

Car: Driving from Vienna to Venice takes approximately 5.5 hours. View flight prices for your dates here >>>

If you are looking for a 20-day itinerary, you can easily secure a great value flight back home. The dock is a 10-minute walk from arrivals, and you can get tickets at the public transportation desk. Taxi is another option, more expensive but only a 15-minute journey.

Bus: You can take a direct bus from Vienna, Central Station Wiedner to Venixe, and Viale Stazione in just over 7.5 hours.

Where to Stay in Venice with Kids

Locanda Ai Santi Apostoli : Great value hotel, located in a 14th-century building overlooking the Grand Canal and a short walk to the Rialto Bridge and St. Marks’ Square. There are many vibrant fruits, vegetables, and flower markets close by to explore. View prices and availability for your dates here >>>

Ca’ San Trovaso – 6 Rooms: Quaint hotel with canal views in the quiet district of Dorsoduro. Rooms are decorated in a typical Venetian style, and there is a great roof terrace. You can easily walk to the main attractions, and the Guggenheim Museum is just around the corner. Cots and extra beds are available. View prices and availability for your dates here >>>

Palazzo Veneziano – Venice Collection : Elegant, centrally located, luxurious hotel close to the Great Canal. with comfortable beds, spacious rooms, great breakfast and welcoming staff. Cots and extra beds are available. Try and book the suite with an outdoor jacuzzi for an extra charge. View prices and availability for your dates here >>>

More on Italy:

Amazing Facts About Italy

Lucca with Kids

Florence with Kids

Palermo with Kids

Days 21 to 23: Milan, Italy

Milan is widely known as the capital of fashion, but it is actually a really family-friendly city too. At the heart of Milan is the impressive Duomo (the 5 th largest cathedral in the world), and the kids will enjoy the exciting climb to the rooftop, followed by a visit to Piazza du Duomo nearby for gelato.

Another key landmark in Milan is Castle Sforzesco: an impressive castle surrounded by Sempione Park. Milan Aquarium is located on the edge of the park, so this is a fun activity for the kids to enjoy too.

The National Museum of Science and Technology is the largest in Italy and is dedicated to Leonardo Da Vinci with many interactive activities for younger and older kids.

How to Get to Milan from Venice

Train: Take the direct train from Venice Santa Lucia to Milan Centrale in just over 2 hours.

43 Station Hotel : Budget-friendly hotel, close to central station and with great transport links to explore Milan and further afield. Family rooms are clean, modern and spacious (cots available).

Brera’s lovely cafes and restaurants are 1.2 miles away, while Milan Cathedral is only five metro stops. View prices and availability for your dates here >>>

Montenapoleone Suites  : Superb Aparthotel, offering beautifully decorated suites with one or two bedrooms, a living area and bathroom (some also have a jacuzzi).

NH Collection Milano President Situated in the historic centre, this superb 5-star hotel is 500 yards from the Cathedral and Milan’s famous shopping street. The family rooms are well equipped and spacious. There is a great Italian restaurant on-site and babysitting service available (extra charge). View prices and availability for your dates here >>>

Turin with Kids

Verona with Kids

Days 24 to 26: Nice, France

Nice is one of the most beautiful French cities to visit, located in the heart of the French Riviera and the penultimate city in your 4 week Europe itinerary. Visit the beach and Promenade des Anglais, where you can hire scooters, bikes, and skateboards to explore the 7km promenade.

The Old Town has beautiful winding streets, with many markets, shops, restaurants and cafes to explore. Don’t miss the impressive Castle Hill of Nice, with amazing views, waterfall, playground and café. The kids will love Parc Phoenix, too, with tropical plants, many animals, a lake and a tropical dome!

How to Get to Nice from Milan

Train: Take the train from Milano Centrale to Nice, with one change at Ventimiglia, in 5 hours. Get your tickets here >>

Car: Driving from Milan to Nice takes approximately 3 to 4 hours. View flight deals for your dates here>>>

Bus: You can take a direct bus from Milano Autostazione Lampugnano to Nice Airport in 6.5 hours.

Where to Stay in Nice with Kids

Hotel Aria : Located near Mozart Square in the city centre of Nice, the hotel is only a 10-minute walk from the Promenade des Anglais and the beach. Rooms and suites are bright, beautiful, comfortable and of great value. View prices and availability for your dates here >>>

Le Windsor, Jungle Art Hotel This unique, quirky hotel will be a hit with the kids, as each room is uniquely designed and decorated by an artist. The hotel is only five minutes from the beach and close to the Old Town, with a tropical garden, swimming pool, fitness and wellness centre. View prices and availability for your dates here >>>

Goldstar Apartments & Suites : Apartments and studios situated only 5 minutes’ walk from the beach, with most units comprising bedroom, living room, and kitchen (including household essentials, bed linen and towels).

The location is perfect in terms of proximity to the city centre and beach, with great transport links to the adjacent old town. View prices and availability for your dates here >>>

Days 27 to 30: Barcelona, Spain

The final stop on your 1 month Europe itinerary is Barcelona , one of the best European city breaks and spending four days here is a must.

The city is beautiful, with great weather and ticks many boxes in terms of a perfect city break with kids. Don’t miss Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia, Park Guell and Casa Battlo, and explore the Gothic Quarter and vibrant Las Ramblas area.

Get Your Park Guell Tickets Here Before They Sell Out!

In the following days, you can take a trip to one of Barcelona’s beautiful beaches, enjoy a football match at the Nou Stadium or visit the historic Montjuic area. If you have the option of a 2-month Europe trip itinerary, then exploring Spain and Portugal would be amazing too.

If you want to see more of Spain on your Europe trip, make sure you read our one week in Spain itinerary for families .

Read More – The Best Family Hotels in Barcelona

How to Get to Barcelona from Nice

Flight: EasyJet flights from Nice Cote D’Azur Airport (NCE) to Barcelona El Prat airport take just over 1 hour and are extremely cheap (from around €35 per person).

You can then take the Aerobus express shuttle to Barcelona, which stops at various locations across the city.

Car: The journey from Nice to Barcelona via car takes just over 6 hours. It may be worth considering a night in Provence to break up the trip if you have time at the end of your 4-week tour of Europe (Nimes is a great option).

Where to Stay in Barcelona with Kids

Aparthotel Bcn Montjuic Located at the foot of Montjuic Hill, this aparthotel offers serviced apartments with a living area, kitchen and bathroom, and an outdoor pool rooftop terrace with solarium.

There are many shops, cafes and restaurants close by and the city centre can be accessed by bus or Metro in 15 minutes. View prices and availability for your dates here >>>

Sallés Hotel Pere IV : Great hotel, close to the beach and marina area in the Poble Nou district, with deluxe family rooms and great facilities. The indoor pool and spa access are included in the room price, and there is also a great restaurant on-site with a kids’ menu. View prices and availability for your dates here >>>

Gran Hotel Havana : Luxury hotel in the impressive Casa Fradera building (built-in 1882) with rooms decorated in a classic style and exceptional facilities. The rooftop pool and terrace are stunning, and the location in the Eixample area is perfect for exploring the city. View prices and availability for your dates here >> >

Visiting Europe Tips

• Plan ahead and book accommodation, activities, and transportation in advance to save time and money.
• Pack light and bring comfortable walking shoes for exploring cities on foot.
• Remember to bring a Europe travel adapter . There is more than one plug type in Europe.
• Keep passports and important documents in a safe place, such as a hotel safe or a hidden travel wallet.
• Use public transportation, such as trains or buses, to get around and save money on rental cars and parking fees.
• Take advantage of free activities and attractions, such as parks, museums with free admission days, and walking tours.
• Be aware of scams and pickpocketing in busy tourist areas and keep an eye on belongings at all times.
• Consider purchasing an eSIM for your phone to have internet access and stay connected while travelling without incurring expensive roaming charges.
• Bring a first-aid kit and any necessary medications to ensure health and safety during the trip.
• Allow for some flexibility in the itinerary to account for unexpected delays or changes in plans.

Discover More of The Best of Europe

Best Citybreaks for Families

Best Theme Parks for Kids

What is an Airport Transfer?

Copenhagen with Kids

Major Landmarks

Turin with kids

Prague with kids

Return to Homepage >>>

Sylvie Simpson

Sylvie Simpson is the founder of European Cities with Kids. For the past 6 years, she has been travelling all over Europe whenever she has the chance, both solo, for work and with her daughter. Sylvie is on a mission to help people make the most of city breaks in Europe with kids and helps over 50,000 readers per month plan and make the most of their trips in Europe with kids.

• Sylvie Simpson https://europeancitieswithkids.com/author/sylvie-simpson/ 55 Inspirational Cruise Quotes
• Sylvie Simpson https://europeancitieswithkids.com/author/sylvie-simpson/ Finland’s Nuuksio National Park with Kids
• Sylvie Simpson https://europeancitieswithkids.com/author/sylvie-simpson/ The 9 Best Switzerland Cities to Visit in 2024 [The Family Edition]
• Sylvie Simpson https://europeancitieswithkids.com/author/sylvie-simpson/ The BEST Water Parks in Poland to Visit with Kids (2024)

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Home > Europe > 3 Months in Europe: The Best 3 Month Itinerary for Europe

3 Months in Europe: The Best 3 Month Itinerary for Europe

By Dymphe / June 19, 2022

Spending 3 months in Europe is an amazing experience you'll never forget. This 3 month itinerary for Europe shows you exactly where to go!

Europe is a continent with many gorgeous destinations. You can find so many different places there! In Europe, you find history, beaches, cities, little towns, museums, islands, and so much more! Because of this, going there is a wonderful experience.

I live in Europe and I visited so many places on the continent! I saw large cities with impressive skyscrapers and Italian and Greek traditional villages. Furthermore, I saw beautiful lakes, gorgeous islands, beaches, and more!

No matter how much time you have in Europe, there's always something new to discover! The continent keeps surprising me, even though I'm living here.

As there's so much to see and to do, spending 3 months in Europe is great! This allows you to see many of the wonderful destinations the continent has to offer.

This 3 months itinerary for Europe is perfect if you're planning on spending 90 days there. You're definitely going to have 3 wonderful months in which you will see so many amazing places!

Table of Contents

Things to Know Before Spending 3 Months in Europe

When you are spending 3 months in Europe, there are some useful things to know! Below, you can find some important information.

1. Bring an Adapter/Converter With You When You’re Going to Spend 3 Months in Europe

There are other electrical sockets in Europe than in some other countries in the world, such as the US. Keep this in mind when you are in Europe for 3 months.

You need an adapter that allows you to plug your existing devices into European sockets.

There are two types you need. One for the UK and one for the rest of Europe.

Furthermore, the voltage in Europe can be different from your country. Most devices work for both, but if not you need a converter. As you're going to visit many places when you're 3 months in Europe, it's convenient to have the correct one.

You can buy an adapter/converter at many stores!

2. Schengen Visa

With a Schengen visa, you can travel within the Schengen Area. This includes the countries of the European Union and some other countries.

With this visa, you can stay up to 90 days in Europe within a period of 180 days. Make sure you don't stay longer than that!

When you are traveling from some countries you don't need a visa, but the same rules apply! For example, you don't need to apply for a visa when you are traveling from the United States to the Schengen Area!

3. Pay in The Local Currency

When you are paying with your credit or debit card you often have the option to pay in your own or the local currency.

You should choose the local currency, as this is often cheaper! This can save you lots of money during your 3 months in Europe.

4. Know the Limits of Hand Luggage

The limits of hand luggage in Europe are often much stricter than in the United States. So keep that in mind when you travel by airplane!

3 Months in Europe Itinerary

The destinations in this 3 months in Europe itinerary are:

Iceland (1 week) London (1 week) Amsterdam (3 days) Paris (1 week) French Riviera (1.5 weeks) Monaco (3 days) Zurich, Lucerne, and Lakes in Switzerland (1 week) Milan (3 days) Venice (1 week) Florence, Pisa and Cinque Terre (1 week) Rome (1 week) Naples and Positano (1 week) Athens (1 week) Santorini (1 week)

Let's start with the itinerary! If you follow this itinerary, you're going to have the most wonderful 90 days in Europe. You'll see beautiful cities, villages, islands and more!

Iceland (1 week): The First Destination of Your 3 Months in Europe

The first place for your 3 month trip to Europe starts in the country of Iceland.

Flying here from the United States can be very affordable. There are low-cost carriers that offer many flights to the country.

Furthermore, there are very cheap flights to the rest of Europe from here. That makes this a great place to fly through when going to Europe. But you should definitely stop here for a week to experience all the country has to offer!

Iceland is a wonderful place to visit. It is a country with a small population that is smaller than that of many cities. There are only about 400,000 people who live in Iceland. But there is a lot to do in Iceland, so it's definitely worth going to!

What makes Iceland great is the nature you find there. There are lots of beautiful places and the country's landscape is very diverse.

For example, there are a lot of places with ice. One of the best examples of this is Diamond Beach. This is a beautiful beach with small blocks of ice that look like diamonds.

Besides that, there are many volcanos in Iceland. These are very impressive to see. There are many places where you can see lava, which is very unique! When you're 3 months in Europe, you should definitely see this!

Also, there are beaches with black sand as a result of all the volcanic activity in the country.

Another great thing about nature in Iceland is the waterfalls.

Furthermore, there are lots of places where you can find Geysers in Iceland. This is yet another thing that is very impressive to see!

Also, there are thermal baths in the country. One of the best of these is Blue Lagoon .

In short, Iceland is wonderful to visit!

London (1 week): One of the Largest Cities of Your 3 Months in Europe

After seeing Iceland, it's time to go to London! You'll spend one week in London if you follow this 3 month itinerary for Europe.

London is the capital of the United Kingdom. Besides that, it's also the largest city in the United Kingdom. It's one of my favorite cities to visit.

Exploring such a large city in England is so much fun. There are many incredible things to see in London.

When you're in the city, you should see Tower Bridge and London Tower for sure. Besides that, seeing Big Ben, the Thames and London Eye is amazing as well!

Besides that, you should see the colorful houses and streets in London too. Especially in Notting Hill, you will find some of the most beautiful streets in the world.

Moreover, there are many incredible museums in London. One of the best museums in London is the British Museum . If you want to see great museums during your 3 months in Europe, this one is perfect!

You can see many objects here from all around the world and from all periods of time. For example, there are lots of objects from Ancient Greece.

Furthermore, those who love shopping will love London too! There are many amazing places for shopping, such as Oxford Street.

Also, London is one of the most beautiful cities in the world! It's very photogenic.

For example, there are many pretty cafes in London. It's incredible to go there as they look very beautiful with lots of flowers and pink.

Amsterdam (3 days)

From London, it is easy to get to the next destination in Europe: Amsterdam. There is a direct train connection between the two cities that is very fast.

Amsterdam is the capital of the Netherlands and it is a lovely place to visit. There is a lot to do in the city, but you can visit the highlights in 3 days, so I recommend spending that amount of time here.

The city of Amsterdam has a lot of canals and bridges. These make the city very unique. Along these canals, you can see very picturesque canal houses. Each house is unique and wonderful to see!

A great activity in the city is doing a canal cruise. During this, you'll learn about the city's history and you'll see some amazing places.

Also, you can rent a boat and sail through the canals of Amsterdam yourself, which is great too!

Besides that, there are a lot of museums in the city of Amsterdam. These are interesting and great to visit when you're 3 months in Europe.

For example, when you love the art of Van Gogh, then you are at the right place at the Van Gogh Museum. Here you find the largest collection of his artworks.

Another great museum is Rijksmuseum. Here you can find a large collection of paintings and other objects.

Besides that, the Anne Frank House is another sight you have to see when you are in the city of Amsterdam. This is the house where Anne Frank lived during the second world war and where she wrote her diary.

Furthermore, the city has a great nightlife scene. There are lots of clubs and bars in the city center.

Also, Amsterdam Dance Event is a great event with lots of dance music events!

Paris (1 week)

The next place on this itinerary for 3 months in Europe is Paris. If you're in Europe, you should definitely visit the capital of France.

Paris is one of the most romantic cities in the world. That's why people call it the City of Love.

There are so many reasons to visit Paris!

One of the reasons is that there are many incredible sights. For example, the Eiffel Tower is a must-see when you're in the city.

Besides that, you can also visit one of the most amazing museums in the world. The Louvre is a large museum that's definitely worth visiting.

And there's so much more, such as the Arc de Triomphe and the Sacré-Cœur.

So the sights in Paris are amazing, but there's another important reason to spend a week in Paris. That's the feeling and atmosphere in the city.

Going to Paris for a week is such an incredible thing to do as you can experience the city a bit like a local.

For example, going to some Parisian cafes is amazing. Or start your day at a lovely Parisian bakery with a baguette and croissant.

Wander through Montmartre and enjoy the beautiful Parisian Streets!

Also, you can shop at the Champs-Élysées or at one of the many lovely boutiques in Paris.

French Riviera (1.5 weeks)

After visiting the City of Love, it's time to go to the French Riviera. The French Riviera is also in France, but it's very different from Paris.

The weather in the French Riviera is often amazing. You can find many beaches and pretty villages in the French Riviera.

For example, Menton and Villefranche-sur-Mer are incredible.

Menton is a small town with some great things to do. One of the places you should see in Menton is Plage des Sablettes.

Plage des Sablettes is a very beautiful beach that's close to the train station of the town. If you want to visit pretty beaches when you're 3 months in Europe, you'll love this one!

The beach is very unique as you have a beautiful view of the colorful houses of the old town. Swimming in the water at this beach is very pleasant when it's summer.

Furthermore, there are lovely rocks where you can sit down and relax.

Villefranche-sur-Mer is also a gorgeous little town you should see!

Other places in the French Riviera are Nice and Cannes. These cities are larger than Menton and Villefranche-sur-Mer.

If you like shopping, going to Nice and Cannes is incredible!

At the French Riviera, you can find many great places to stay. You can choose between one of the small villages or one of the cities. Especially staying in one of the hotels with a view of the sea is very relaxing.

Monaco (3 days)

Another one of the best destinations in Europe when you are doing a 3-month trip is Monaco.

Monaco is actually part of the French Riviera, but it is a separate country. It is a very small place. In fact, it is one of the smallest countries in the world! Because of this, it's a must-see.

Getting to Monaco is as easy as getting to other places in French Riviera. There is a great train connection from places in the French Riviera!

What makes Monaco great is how beautiful it looks. Everywhere in the city, there are pretty spots. For that reason, it's an amazing place to see when you're 3 months in Europe.

One of the best events in Monaco is the Monaco Grand Prix. During this event, the whole country turns into a racing track, which is incredible!

One of the best places you can go to in Monaco is the Monte-Carlo Casino. The casino appeared in many movies and it is a very fun place to go to! Fun fact, people who live in Monaco may not enter the casino to ensure the citizen don't lose their wealth here.

Another great place to visit in Monaco is the Rock of Monaco. This is the highest point in the city with many sights.

You can find here the St Martin Gardens. These gardens are beautiful and are especially pretty because of the view!

Another interesting sight at the Rock of Monaco is the Prince's Palace. This is the official palace of the Prince of Monaco, which is very interesting. Also, you can see the ritual of the changing of the guards here, during which the guards change shifts.

In Monaco, there are amazing beaches. One of the best of these is Larvotto Beach.

Zurich, Lucerne, and the Lakes in Switzerland (1 week): The Most Beautiful Nature of Your 3 Months in Europe

Now it is time to visit some places in Switzerland. Switzerland is famous for its beautiful nature and wonderful cities.

From France, it is easy to get here by train!

When you are going to Switzerland, you should definitely go to Zürich. This is the capital of the country, with lots of things to do and see.

Wandering through the city and seeing the typical Swiss architecture is amazing. It is a great addition to your 3 month trip to Europe that you should not miss out on!

Another great city in Switzerland that I definitely recommend visiting is Lucerne. You can go here by train from Zürich.

The old part of the city of Lucerne is great! The houses here are very picturesque. Furthermore, the Kapellbrücke is lovely to see. This is a very old wooden bridge that crosses the river.

You can also visit the mountains near the city. From there you have a wonderful view of the city. Furthermore, it is great to see nature here!

Next to Lucerne, you can find Lake Lucerne. This is one of the most beautiful lakes in Switzerland. The water is very blue and the views of the mountains are lovely! Furthermore, you can swim in the lake!

Besides this lake, there are a lot of other great lakes that are worth visiting in Switzerland. Each lake is unique, but all are stunning!

You can visit these lakes when you are 3 months in Europe. There are great train connections or you can go there by car!

Milan (3 days)

From Switzerland, you should travel to Italy. There are good connections by train between the two countries.

One of the best Italian cities close to the border with Switzerland is Milan.

Milan is one of the largest cities in Italy with lots of great sights.

The most famous sight in the city is definitely Milan Cathedral. This is a beautiful cathedral in the center of the city. If you love architecture, it's a wonderful sight.

Also, next to it you can find the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. This is a great covered passage that looks beautiful. You can find here lots of luxury fashion stores.

Milan is one of the fashion capitals of Europe and it is a great place for shopping! There are lots of other shopping streets in the city.

There are also a lot of places of high cultural significance. For example, you can find here The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci, which is a very famous mural painting.

Also, there are lots of great parks in the city and there are good restaurants.

Because you can see the highlights of the city in a very easy way, spending 3 days in Milan is enough to cover it!

There are many other great places in Italy left to explore!

Venice (1 week)

After you went to Milan you should definitely go to another great place in Italy: Venice.

From Milan, it is easy to get to Venice by train or by bus.

Venice is a very special city and one of my favorite ones that I went to! It is such a gorgeous place!

In the city of Venice, there's water everywhere. The whole city is full of canals and bridges. This is also the only way to move around. There are no cars, so you can only travel on foot or by boat.

The canals look amazing with the blue water and lovely canal houses. Seeing these is a great experience when you are 3 months in Europe.

For example, the view of the Grand Canal from the Rialto Bridge will surprise you. It is so gorgeous to be there.

Furthermore, one of the best things you can do in the city is a gondola ride. This is a very famous and romantic activity. On board a gondola, you'll tour the canals of Venice and see the city from the water!

Another great activity in the city is going to St. Mark's Square. You'll find here the Doge's Palace and Saint Mark's Basilica. These places have incredible architecture and a very interesting to visit.

Besides seeing the famous things in the city, you should definitely get lost when you are in Venice. The little streets of the city are great to wander through and you'll stumble upon pretty places for sure!

There are also lots of great events in the city of Venice. When you happen to visit the city of Venice during March, you can see the Venice Carnival. This is a great festival with lots of dance, music, and incredible masks.

Florence, Pisa and Cinque Terre (1 week)

Now it is time to visit one of my favorite cities. Florence is another beautiful city in Italy. It is the capital of the region of Tuscany.

The city is all about the Renaissance and you can see that in all the buildings in the city. This makes the city very beautiful and very interesting.

The history of the city is what is very interesting. During the Middle Ages, it was a very wealthy and influential city.

Under the rule of the Medici family, the city flourished. Many people consider the city as the Renaissance's birthplace. Furthermore, many famous people lived here. These include Michelangelo, Galileo Galilei, Machiavelli, and Leonardo da Vinci.

The historic center of Florence is amazing to wander through. You can see beautiful buildings and monuments everywhere.

For example, the Palazzo Vecchio, the town hall of Florence, is amazing. Also, you'll find here the Loggia dei Lanzi, where you can see all kinds of historic statues for free.

Other notable sights in the city are Ponte Vecchio, Palazzo Pitti, and the Duomo. There is so much to see here!

Also, there are lots of great places for art in the city. The Uffizi Gallery is one of the best museums in Europe. You can find here lots of paintings that are wonderful to see.

Another great place for art is the Galleria dell'Accademia. You can find here lots of sculptures. The most famous object here is David by Michelangelo.

Furthermore, when you are in Florence you should also do a trip to Pisa and Cinque Terre.

Pisa is a lovely city that is especially famous because of the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

And Cinque Terre is a great collection of colorful seaside towns. The houses there are very picturesque and beautiful!

Rome (1 week)

The next Italian city on this itinerary for 3 months in Europe is Rome.

This city is very famous and you definitely already know about it.

Rome has a very interesting history and there are lots of great things to see and do here.

Rome was the capital of the Roman Empire and you can still see a lot of remains from that period in time.

Definitely, the most famous sight of the city is the Colosseum. This is an old arena from the Roman Empire where fights, plays, and more events took place.

What's incredible about the building is its size and age. Back in its days, the Colosseum could hold between 50,000 and 80,000 people, which is a lot. And the fact that a large part of such a large building survived is amazing!

Another one of the best sights in the city, near the Colosseum, is the Roman Forum. This was the city center of Ancient Rome. You can see here ruins of all kinds of buildings, such as temples. Furthermore, you can see here the houses of former emperors.

Furthermore, the Trevi Fountain is an incredible sight to see in Rome. This is a fountain in the middle of the city with lots of statues and decorations.

Close to this, you can also see the Pantheon. This is an ancient temple from the Roman Empire for the old Roman gods.

The Spanish Steps are another lovely thing in the city of Rome. This is a great spot with many shopping streets surrounding it.

Also, when you are in Rome, you should definitely visit Vatican City. This is the smallest country in the world and it is the place where the pope lives. You can find here the impressive St. Peter's Basilica.

Naples and Positano (1 week)

Another great place to go to during your Europe trip of 3 months is the city of Naples. When you are spending one week here, you can explore the city and some of the surrounding areas!

In comparison to other cities in Italy, Naples feels more authentic. There are fewer tourists, which makes this a great place to go!

There are many sights in the city. For example, there are lots of beautiful churches throughout the city. Also, there is a lot of beautiful architecture in the city. Naples is the perfect city for your 3 months in Europe if you love architecture. For example, Piazza del Plebiscito is great!

But wandering around in Naples is a great activity too!

Also, you should definitely try out pizza when you are in Naples. That's because Naples is the birthplace of Pizza! Experiences authentic pizza is a great experience for your 3 month Europe trip!

You can find lots of great pizzerias in the city. My favorite pizza restaurant is L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele. Their pizzas are very cheap and very delicious!

Next to Naples is the volcano Mount Vesuvius and the ancient city of Pompeii.

During the time of the Romans, the eruption of the volcano covered the city in ashes. All buildings and people of the city got frozen in time. Because of that, there are a lot of interesting things to see here!

Furthermore, visiting the volcano is great too! From there you have a wonderful view of the city of Naples and the sea. Also, you can see lava here.

Another great place near Naples is Positano. This is a small coastal town that looks incredible. There are many picturesque houses and beautiful viewpoints. Visiting this town is definitely worth it when you are in Naples as well!

Athens (1 week)

From Naples in Italy, you can fly to the city of Athens in Greece.

Athens is the capital city of Greece and it is an amazing place to visit.

The history of the city is very interesting and you can find remnants of it throughout the city center. Furthermore, the city looks very beautiful.

One of the best things to do in Athens is to visit the Acropolis. The Acropolis is an old citadel of Ancient Greece. Thousands of years ago, you could find here many important buildings. Nowadays, there are a lot of ruins left.

The most important building that you can still see a large part of here is the Parthenon. This is an old temple dedicated to the Goddess Athena, who was the patron of the city of Athens.

Another great thing to do in Athens is going to the Temple of the Olympian Zeus. Here you can see ruins of the ancient temple that focused on the God Zeus. When this temple was in use, it was the largest temple in the world.

When you are in Athens, you should definitely go to Ermou too. This is the main shopping street in the city that is great for shopping!

Also, Plaka is a great part of the city to visit. You can find here lots of boutique shops and restaurants serving delicious food. Wandering around here is great!

Another great sight in the city that is worth visiting is the Ancient Agora. You find here lots of ruins from Ancient Greece.

Besides that, the Panathenaic Stadium is also worth checking out. This is a very old stadium.

From Athens, you can visit the Greek islands. There are many of them, and from Athens, you can travel there by ferry in a quick way!

Santorini (1 week)

The last place you're going to visit if you follow this itinerary for 3 months in Europe is Santorini. Santorini is a beautiful island in Greece that's part of the Cyclades.

Santorini is one of the most popular destinations in the world for photography. That's because it's so beautiful!

Santorini is famous because of its magnificent blue domes and viewpoints. If you're going to visit Santorini, I'm sure the beauty of the island will amaze you!

You can find pretty villages in Santorini. As you're spending one week in Santorini, there's enough time to visit several villages!

The most famous place on the island is Oia.

Oia is a wonderful village where you can find the most gorgeous viewpoints, such as Oia Castle.

Furthermore, there are gorgeous blue domes and lovely shops.

Oia is definitely a must-see when you're on the island! It's is also the most popular place to take photos on Santorini.

Other great villages are Fira and Imerovigli.

Fira is the capital of the island. In Fira, you can find many great shops. Furthermore, it's also a place where many buses to other parts of Santorini leave.

Imerovigli is a wonderful village where you can also find great viewpoints.

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This 1-month itinerary skips over some of Europe's tourism hotspots in favor of lesser-visited but equally unforgettable destinations. Ready to go one stop further and experience some of Europe's highlights and hidden gems? This itinerary is for you. 

Itinerary highlights 

For this itinerary, we recommend:

• Eurail Pass:  Global Pass
• Travel days:  1 or 2 months Continuous Pass
• Tip:  Travelers can split up long train journeys by exploring stopover cities. For example, travelers going from Zagreb (Croatia) to Bologna (Italy) may choose to stay in Villach (Austria) for a day or two. 

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

Ghent, Belgium

Don't miss  St. Bavo Cathedral,  filled with famous artwork such as the Ghent Altarpiece by the Van Eyck brothers. 

Ghent's  large student population  contributes to a lively atmosphere in the medieval center. 

Art and music are everywhere during the  Gentse Feesten , a spectacular 10-day festival held in July.

Rotterdam, the Netherlands

Amsterdam's neighbor to the south has a  futuristic skyline  that's unique in the Netherlands.

Modern architectural landmarks include the  Erasmus Bridge  and the  Market Hall .

Up for a concert? Rotterdam is home to dozens of  live music venues.

Leipzig, Germany

Leipzig has been called the " New Berlin"  for years, due to its vast creative scene. 

Enjoy the city's architectural variety and check out  St. Nicholas Church , where Johann Sebastian Bach once played the organ.

Visit the  Spinnerei Art Centre,  a former cotton spinning mill that is now home to more than 100 artists' studios. 

Warsaw, Poland

•   Catch  a live concert  of composer Frédéric Chopin's music, performed daily in Warsaw's picturesqure Old Town.

On a sunny day, take a stroll or enjoy a bike ride on the kilometers-long promenade along the Vistula river. 

• In Warsaw's  Praga district , former factories have been transformed into restaurants, art galleries, and beyond. 

Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is a visually striking city, split in two by the Danube River. Visit  Buda Castle  for some of the best views of the city.

Bask in Baroque beauty (and sip a latte or two) at Budapest's famous  coffee houses and cafes. 

Pick up some groceries and souvenirs and  sample local specialties  with a visit to Budapest's Central Market Hall. 

Belgrade, Serbia

• Go for a stroll around  Kalemegdan,  a large park situated where the Danube and Sava rivers meet.
• Take in the view from atop the  Belgrade Fortress , which has historical roots dating back to the Neolithic period. 
• Consider a  day trip to Novi Sad  (or another Serbian destination) by train. The journey from Belgrade to Novi Sad, included in the Pass, takes under an hour.

Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

• Begin with a cup of Bosnian coffee at the historic  Bascarsij.  Nearby, you'll find local artisans selling traditional copper and other souvenirs.  
• Ride the  cable car  up to Trebević and soak in a sweeping view of Sarajevo before taking a short hike on walking paths through the forest. 
• Take the train to  Mostar , a picturesque city in southern Bosnia and Herzegovina. This train ride, included in the Pass, takes under 3 hours.

Zagreb, Croatia

• Start your day by getting some fresh fruit at  Dolac Market , a beautiful square famous for its red umbrellas used by vendors. 
• Visit the unique  Museum of Broken Relationships  and unpack the universal experiences of loss and heartbreak.
• After the museum, take a long walk around Zagreb's Upper Town. Don't miss the  Church of St. Mark 's   colorful tiled roof.  

Bologna, Italy

Travelers can lose themselves for days exploring Bologna's  medieval churches, long porticoes, and hidden canals.

The  University of Bologna  is the crown jewel of this lively student city, dating back to the year 1088.

Climb to the top of the  Clock Tower  for a breathtaking view of Bologna. 

Lyon, France

• Lyon, home to more than 4,000 restaurants, is said to be the  gastronomical capital of France . 

Signs of the city's history and architectural variety are everywhere you turn, from the ancient  Roman theater  to the futuristic  Musée des Confluences .

Visit the soaring  Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière,  recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and symbol of Lyon. 

What Pass should I get for one month in Europe?

The Eurail Global Pass allows travelers to explore 33 European countries by train. Choose a 1 or 2 months Continuous Pass  for maximum flexibility. 

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The Ultimate 1-Month Europe Itinerary for Families: A Comprehensive Guide

• Post author: David Lee
• Post last modified: August 9, 2023

Europe is one of the most beautiful, unique and memorable continents to visit, and a month-long trip to Europe is a dream come true for many families. However, planning a one-month itinerary for Europe can be a daunting task, especially if you are traveling with kids. That’s why we have put together the ultimate 1-month Europe itinerary for families, which will help you to make the most of your time in Europe and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones.

Our itinerary covers some of the most iconic European landmarks, rich history, art and culture, fabulous food, and great people that Europe has to offer. From the romantic streets of Paris to the canals of Venice, from the fairy-tale castles of Germany to the stunning beaches of Croatia, our itinerary has something for everyone. Whether you are interested in history, art, culture, or just want to relax and enjoy the beauty of Europe, our itinerary has got you covered.

We have carefully designed our itinerary to make it family-friendly, so you can enjoy your trip without worrying about your kids getting bored or tired. We have included plenty of activities and attractions that are suitable for kids of all ages, as well as some downtime for relaxation and exploration. So, pack your bags, grab your family, and get ready for the ultimate one-month Europe itinerary that you will never forget.

Table of Contents

Top European Cities to Visit in One Month

If you’re planning a one-month trip to Europe with your family, you want to make sure that you visit the best cities that the continent has to offer. Here are some of the top European cities to visit in one month, each with its unique charm and attractions.

Paris is known as the City of Love, but it’s also a great city for families to visit. The city has many iconic landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral. You can also take a boat ride on the Seine River or visit Disneyland Paris.

Rome is a city that’s full of history and culture. You can visit the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Pantheon. You can also take a stroll through the Vatican City and visit St. Peter’s Basilica. Don’t forget to try some authentic Italian pizza and gelato while you’re here.

London is a city that’s full of fun and excitement for families. You can visit the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and the British Museum. You can also take a ride on the London Eye or visit the Harry Potter Studio Tour. Don’t forget to try some fish and chips while you’re here.

Amsterdam is a city that’s known for its beautiful canals and relaxed atmosphere. You can visit the Van Gogh Museum, the Anne Frank House, and the Rijksmuseum. You can also take a boat ride on the canals or visit the famous Red Light District.

Berlin is a city that’s full of history and culture. You can visit the Berlin Wall, the Brandenburg Gate, and the Holocaust Memorial. You can also take a stroll through the Tiergarten Park or visit the Berlin Zoo.

Barcelona is a city that’s known for its stunning architecture and beaches. You can visit the Sagrada Familia, the Park Guell, and the Gothic Quarter. You can also take a stroll through the La Rambla or visit the Barceloneta Beach.

Overall, these are some of the top European cities to visit in one month with your family. Each city has its unique charm and attractions, making it a memorable experience for everyone.

Transportation Options

When planning a one-month trip to Europe with your family, transportation is a crucial aspect to consider. Luckily, Europe has an extensive transportation network that can take you to any corner of the continent. Here are some transportation options to consider:

Europe has many options in terms of airlines, with major carriers connecting large European cities as well as budget airlines (EasyJet, Ryanair, and Wizz Air) offering great flight prices (additional charges for luggage, seat selection, etc.). It’s important to note that budget airlines often fly to secondary airports, which may be farther from the city center. However, this can be an advantage if you’re looking to save money on transportation from the airport to your accommodation.

Train travel in Europe is a popular and efficient way to get around. High-speed trains such as the Eurostar, TGV, and ICE can take you between major cities quickly and comfortably. It’s important to make reservations for high-speed trains in advance, as they can sell out quickly during peak travel season. If you’re planning to take multiple train journeys, consider purchasing an Eurail pass, which can save you money and allow you to travel flexibly.

Buses are a budget-friendly option for traveling between cities in Europe. Companies such as Flixbus and Eurolines offer routes throughout the continent at affordable prices. However, be prepared for longer travel times and less comfortable seats compared to trains.

Car Rentals

Renting a car can be a great option if you’re looking to explore the countryside or visit smaller towns. However, keep in mind that driving in Europe can be challenging, especially if you’re not used to narrow roads and different traffic rules. It’s also important to consider parking costs and restrictions in cities.

Overall, there are many transportation options to consider when planning a one-month trip to Europe with your family. Consider your budget, travel time, and preferred mode of transportation when making your decision.

Accommodation

When planning a one-month family trip across Europe, finding the right accommodation is key. There are many options available, including hotels, hostels, and apartments, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

Hotels are a popular choice for families, offering a range of amenities and services that make for a comfortable stay. Many hotels offer family rooms or suites, which can accommodate larger groups. They also often provide breakfast, making it easier to start the day off right. However, hotels can be expensive, and may not offer the same level of flexibility as other options.

Hostels are a great choice for families on a budget, offering affordable accommodation in shared or private rooms. Many hostels have communal areas, such as kitchens and lounges, where families can relax and socialize. They are also often located in central areas, making it easy to explore the city. However, hostels may not offer the same level of privacy and security as other options.

Apartments are a good choice for families who want more space and privacy. They often come equipped with kitchen facilities, allowing families to cook their own meals and save money on dining out. They can also be more affordable than hotels, especially for longer stays. However, apartments may not offer the same level of service and amenities as hotels, and may be located further from the city center.

When choosing accommodation, it’s important to consider your family’s needs and preferences. Whether you opt for a hotel, hostel, or apartment, make sure to read reviews and compare prices to find the best option for your family.

Must-See Attractions

If you’re traveling to Europe with your family, there are some must-see attractions that you won’t want to miss. From iconic landmarks to historical sites, there’s something for everyone in these top European destinations.

Eiffel Tower

No trip to Paris is complete without a visit to the Eiffel Tower. This iconic landmark is one of the most recognizable structures in the world, and it offers stunning views of the city from the top. Be sure to book your tickets in advance to avoid long lines.

Tower of London

The Tower of London is a must-see attraction for history buffs. This historic castle has been the site of many important events throughout the centuries, including the imprisonment and execution of Anne Boleyn. Today, visitors can tour the castle and see the Crown Jewels on display.

Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace is the official residence of the British monarch, and it’s a must-see attraction for anyone visiting London. Visitors can watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony, tour the State Rooms, and see the Queen’s Gallery.

The Louvre is one of the world’s most famous museums, and it’s home to some of the most iconic works of art in history. Visitors can see the Mona Lisa, the Winged Victory of Samothrace, and the Venus de Milo, among many other treasures.

Notre Dame is one of the most famous cathedrals in the world, and it’s a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Paris. Although the cathedral suffered a devastating fire in 2019, visitors can still see the exterior of the building and the beautiful stained glass windows.

Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey is one of the most important religious buildings in the world, and it’s the site of many royal coronations and weddings. Visitors can tour the abbey and see the tombs of many important historical figures, including Isaac Newton and Charles Darwin.

Palace of Versailles

The Palace of Versailles is a stunning example of French Baroque architecture, and it’s a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Paris. Visitors can tour the palace and see the Hall of Mirrors, the Royal Chapel, and the King’s State Apartments.

Big Ben is one of the most famous landmarks in London, and it’s a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the city. Although the clock tower is currently undergoing renovations, visitors can still see the exterior of the building and take a tour of the Houses of Parliament.

The London Eye is a giant Ferris wheel that offers stunning views of the city. It’s a must-see attraction for anyone visiting London, and it’s especially popular with families.

Brandenburg Gate

The Brandenburg Gate is one of the most famous landmarks in Berlin, and it’s a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the city. The gate was built in the 18th century and it’s a symbol of peace and unity.

Sacre Coeur

Sacre Coeur is a stunning basilica located in the Montmartre neighborhood of Paris. It’s a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the city, and it offers stunning views of the city from the top of the hill.

Champs Elysee

The Champs Elysee is one of the most famous streets in the world, and it’s a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Paris. Visitors can stroll down the street and see some of the city’s most famous landmarks, including the Arc de Triomphe.

Luxembourg Gardens

The Luxembourg Gardens are a beautiful park located in the heart of Paris. They’re a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the city, and they offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Visitors can stroll through the gardens and see the beautiful fountains and statues.

Getting Around Europe

When it comes to getting around Europe, there are several options available for families. The most popular modes of transportation are train travel, driving, and budget airlines. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to choose the right option based on your family’s needs and preferences.

Train Travel

Train travel is one of the most popular ways to get around Europe, thanks to the extensive network of railways that connect major cities and towns. Traveling by train is not only convenient but also allows you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic views. Moreover, it is a safe and eco-friendly mode of transportation.

Europe has several types of trains, including high-speed trains, regional trains, and local trains. High-speed trains are the fastest and most comfortable way to travel between major cities, while regional trains are slower but offer more stops and are cheaper. Local trains are the slowest but are the most affordable and connect small towns and villages.

To save money on train travel, it is recommended to book tickets in advance, travel during off-peak hours, and take advantage of rail passes. Rail passes allow you to travel on multiple trains within a set period, and they often include discounts on other attractions and activities.

Driving is another popular option for families who want to explore Europe at their own pace. Renting a car gives you the freedom to travel to remote areas and explore hidden gems that are not accessible by public transportation. Moreover, it is more convenient to travel with children and luggage when you have your own vehicle.

However, driving in Europe can be challenging, especially if you are not used to narrow roads, different traffic rules, and unfamiliar signs. It is important to check the rental car policies, get an international driving permit, and purchase insurance coverage before hitting the road.

To save money on driving, it is recommended to rent a car for longer periods, avoid toll roads, and compare prices from different rental car companies.

Budget Tips

Traveling on a budget is possible in Europe, thanks to several budget airlines that offer cheap flights between major cities. Budget airlines are a great way to save money on transportation, especially when you book in advance and avoid peak travel seasons.

Another way to save money on transportation is to use public transportation, such as buses and trams. Many cities in Europe have efficient and affordable public transportation systems that connect major attractions and landmarks.

Finally, walking and cycling are also great ways to explore Europe, especially in cities that have pedestrian-friendly streets and bike lanes.

In conclusion, getting around Europe with your family can be an exciting and memorable experience. Whether you choose to travel by train, drive a rental car, or take a budget airline, it’s important to plan ahead, compare prices, and choose the option that suits your family’s needs and budget.

Off the Beaten Path

If you’re looking for a unique and memorable family vacation, consider exploring some of Europe’s lesser-known destinations. Here are five off the beaten path destinations that offer plenty of family-friendly activities and attractions.

Krakow, Poland is a charming and historic city that offers a wealth of cultural experiences for families. Take a stroll through the Old Town to see the stunning architecture and visit the Wawel Castle. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Wieliczka Salt Mine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore the underground chambers and tunnels. For a fun family outing, head to the Krakow Zoo or the Park Wodny water park.

Seville, Spain is a vibrant and colorful city that is perfect for families. Take a walk through the historic Santa Cruz neighborhood to see the beautiful architecture and visit the Alcazar Palace. Don’t miss the opportunity to see a flamenco show or take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the city. For a fun family outing, head to the Isla Magica amusement park or the Aquopolis water park.

Venice, Italy is a unique and enchanting city that is sure to captivate the whole family. Take a gondola ride through the canals to see the stunning architecture and visit the Doge’s Palace. Don’t miss the opportunity to see a glass-blowing demonstration on the island of Murano or take a boat ride to the colorful island of Burano. For a fun family outing, head to the Lido di Venezia beach or the Parco delle Rimembranze amusement park.

Prague, Czech Republic is a magical and historic city that is perfect for families. Take a walk across the Charles Bridge to see the stunning views and visit the Prague Castle. Don’t miss the opportunity to see the famous Astronomical Clock in the Old Town Square or take a boat ride on the Vltava River. For a fun family outing, head to the Prague Zoo or the Aquapalace water park.

Bruges, Belgium is a picturesque and historic city that is perfect for families. Take a walk through the cobbled streets to see the beautiful architecture and visit the Belfry of Bruges. Don’t miss the opportunity to take a boat ride on the canals or visit the Chocolate Museum. For a fun family outing, head to the Boudewijn Seapark amusement park or the Plopsaland De Panne theme park.

These off the beaten path destinations offer plenty of family-friendly activities and attractions for a memorable and unique European vacation.

Best Time to Visit Europe

Europe is a continent with a diverse climate, which means that the best time to visit Europe will depend on your preferences and interests. Generally, the peak travel season in Europe is from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, this is also the busiest time of the year, and the crowds can be overwhelming, especially in popular tourist destinations.

If you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more relaxed travel experience, consider visiting Europe in the shoulder season. The shoulder season falls between April to May and September to October, and it is a great time to visit Europe. During this time, the weather is mild, and the crowds are thinner, making it easier to explore popular tourist attractions.

If you are planning to visit Europe during the winter season, you can experience the magical Christmas markets that are held in many cities across Europe. The Christmas markets are a great way to experience the local culture, taste traditional food and drinks, and buy unique souvenirs. Some of the best Christmas markets in Europe are held in Vienna, Prague, Munich, and Strasbourg.

When it comes to the climate, Southern Europe has a Mediterranean climate, which means that the summers are hot and dry, and the winters are mild and wet. On the other hand, Northern Europe has a maritime climate, which means that the summers are cool and rainy, and the winters are cold and snowy. If you want to enjoy the warm weather, visit Southern Europe during the summer season. If you want to experience the winter wonderland, visit Northern Europe during the winter season.

In conclusion, the best time to visit Europe will depend on your preferences and interests. Consider visiting Europe during the shoulder season to avoid the crowds, or during the winter season to experience the magical Christmas markets.

When planning a one-month trip to Europe with your family, there are a few essential things you need to keep in mind to make the most of your time and ensure a stress-free journey. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Length of Time

One month may seem like a long time, but it can go by quickly when you’re traveling. It’s important to plan your itinerary carefully to make the most of your time. Consider visiting 4-5 countries and spending 3-4 days in each city. This will give you enough time to explore each destination and experience the local culture without feeling rushed.

Before you start planning your itinerary, it’s a good idea to get a map of Europe and mark the cities you want to visit. This will help you visualize your route and make sure you’re not backtracking or wasting time traveling long distances.

Reservation Tips

To avoid last-minute stress and disappointment, it’s important to make reservations for your accommodations and transportation in advance. Consider booking your flights, trains, and rental cars as early as possible to get the best deals. When it comes to accommodations, consider staying in apartments or vacation rentals instead of hotels, as they can be more affordable and offer more space for families.

Packing Tips

When packing for a one-month trip to Europe, it’s important to pack light and smart. Consider bringing versatile clothing that can be mixed and matched, and pack layers for changing weather conditions. Don’t forget to pack comfortable walking shoes, as you’ll be doing a lot of exploring on foot. To save space, consider packing a travel-sized laundry detergent and washing clothes as needed.

By keeping these essentials in mind, you’ll be well-prepared for your one-month trip to Europe with your family. If you’re looking for a guided tour option, G Adventures offers a variety of family-friendly tours that can take the stress out of planning your trip.

Memorable Experiences for Families

When planning a one-month trip to Europe with your family, you want to make sure that you create memories that will last a lifetime. Here are some of the most memorable experiences that families can have in Europe:

Europe has some of the most beautiful and scenic hiking trails in the world. Families can enjoy a day of hiking in the Swiss Alps or the Italian Dolomites. The Four Seasons Hotel in Gstaad, Switzerland, offers guided hikes for families of all ages. The hotel also provides backpacks, hiking sticks, and binoculars for kids.

Backpacking

Backpacking is a great way to experience Europe’s diverse cultures and landscapes. Families can take a night train from one city to another and explore the local culture and cuisine. Heathrow, Stansted, and Gatwick airports offer backpacker-friendly accommodations and transportation options.

West End Shows

London’s West End is known for its world-class theater productions. Families can enjoy a night out at the theater and watch a musical or play. Some of the most popular shows for families include The Lion King, Matilda, and Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.

Tapas Tours

Spain is famous for its tapas, small plates of food that are perfect for sharing. Families can take a tapas tour in Madrid or Barcelona and sample a variety of local dishes. The tours are led by local guides who can provide insight into the history and culture of the region.

In conclusion, there are many memorable experiences that families can have in Europe. Whether it’s hiking in the Alps, backpacking through different cities, watching a West End show, or taking a tapas tour, there’s something for everyone. These experiences will create lasting memories that families will cherish for years to come.

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If we had 3 months in Europe this is where we would go! [3 Month Itinerary]

Europe how we love you! If you’re reading this, you’re likely considering a longer Europe adventure, and we are so happy for you! After completing 6 months full time travel in Europe, and multiple other trips to various regions in the continent, we are uniquely qualified to give a little advice, and a few suggestions! We urge you to do lots of research, including reading blogs like ours, before you start planning you adventures. Take a look below at some recommendations, where we would head if we visited Europe for 3 months, and a few proposed itineraries for you to check out!

A few things to consider when travelling for 3 months (or more)

3 months isn’t as long as you think.. don’t try and fit everything in! Yes, 3 months seems like a lot, and it is! However, Europe is enormous, and despite the temptation of trying to tick off every one of your ideal destinations, we urge you to slow it down a little and re-assess. We travelled Europe for 6 months, and despite visiting 25 countries, we didn’t even get close to seeing everything, or ticking off all places we were keen to visit (Malta we will return for you!). Therefore, we urge you to pick your standouts, work out where you definitely want to visit, and spend some time in these locations.

Fast & Slow travel: Leading on from the last point, some destinations you may skip through quicker, but definitely we urge you to slow down in others. Not only will this help you refresh and enjoy it more, you physically cant keep going country-to-country every few days. We put a little piece together on Slow vs Fast travel if you want to read a little more on this area.

Head to a variety of different locations . Don’t spend your entire 3 months in big cities. However, spending the whole trip on the beach is likely too much as well. We would recommend striking a balance. Definitely include some big cities full of history, culture and good food (see our favourites below). We also strongly encourage you to check out the smaller towns as the often give a more authentic and often picturesque experience. And depending on your preferences, head out into nature, whether it be beachside, or hiking, or lakeside. There’s so much in Europe and we recommend you sample a complete range!

Step away from the conventional tourist paths for awhile. The ‘big ticket items’ (e.g. Italy, France etc) are popular for a reason, they are often spectacular. However, underrated countries and destinations are often just as impressive, and come with far less cost and fewer tourists. We definitely think it’s worth considering.

Do lots of research! Well done, you’re already on the way with this point by reading this blog! There’s so much great information out there, and the more you research the better you can plan your dream 3 month trip!

Where we would travel if we were heading to Europe for 3 months

If we were in your shoes, planning a dream 3+ month holiday, these are some of the countries and regions we would lock straight into our travel itinerary.

It’s a no-brainer. Italy is one of the best countries in all of Europe (and the world) to visit! Filled with amazing food, stunning big cities, so many inland and coastal towns, and lots of impressive beaches. Despite the popularity, there’s still many places to see that are a little away from the busy crowds. Don’t think twice, plan to head to Italy. Breaking down where to visit in Italy becomes a little more of a challenge. To give you some inspiration, we urge you to consider the following locations:

• Puglia: see why we loved this underrated coastal region!
• Tuscany: see our road trip through this amazing region!

The stunning country of Croatia is a true gem and definitely somewhere you should look to visit, especially during warmer summer months and shoulder seasons! Boasting some of the best beaches in the world, a crazy amount of incredible islands to explore, and lots of wonderful seaside towns, Croatia is a must visit! See some of the locations in Croatia that we loved!

• Croatian Islands: our favourite island is Vis!
• Makarska: this beachside town is bursting with reasons to visit!
• Dubrovnik: despite the tourist ‘hype’, it’s worth visiting!

Switzerland:

Ah Switzerland, your beauty is boundless! Our visit to this stunning country was punctuated with family moments (Tess’s Swiss-Italian family), incredible views, great hikes and cute towns to explore. We urge you to visit the many mountainous and lake regions, where postcard views will be at every turn. Don’t miss:

• Jungfrau: see our guide to the region!
• Oeschinensee: one of the most beautiful natural regions we have ever seen!

Portugal may well be our favourite country in Europe, or at least a close second to Italy. We loved the cities, beaches and smaller towns, but even more so enjoy the positive and welcoming nature of the locals. The food was excellent, and there was so, so much to see and do. If you’re heading to Europe, definitely consider Portugal on your ‘hit list’ of places to check out. We urge you to visit:

• Lisbon: our pick of things to do in Lisbon!
• Porto: our snapshot of Porto!
• Algarve: the impressive Portuguese beachside region

The Balkans:

This region in the central-east of Europe is truly a hidden gem filled with so many amazing places to explore. While Croatia (listed above) is part of the Balkans, there are many more amazing countries like Slovenia, Albania, Montenegro, Bosnia, Romania and more! You could easily spend a month or 2 just in this region, so we’d strongly urge you to consider adding the Balkans into your Europe trip. Take a look at our guide to the Balkans here.

And don’t miss..

There’s so many more amazing locations which we will include below, including cities like Copenhagen, Prague, Budapest and Edinburgh, along with amazing small towns and regions like south of France, Lake Bled, Albanian Riviera and more!

3 month Europe travel itineraries:

The planning is always a strange mix of extreme excitement and wanderlust, mixed with stress and ‘fear of missing out’. However, as discussed above, we urge you to not try and ‘fit everything in’, and choose a few key areas and regions to visit! Additionally, we also recommend a mix of coastal, big cities and smaller towns/regions. We have put together a few sample itineraries that we think cover off all the regions we love, and give you a wonderful mix of different locations. These can be copied exactly, but are more designed to give you inspiration for you 3 month travel planning.

Option 1: Switzerland, Italy & the Balkans

This itinerary covers of so many of our favourite places, particularly Switzerland, Italy and the Balkans! Start in the Swiss capital of Zurich , make your way down to the stunning Jungfrau region , before heading to one of our favourite countries, Italy ! Spend up to a month in Italy covering off Tuscany, Rome, Puglia and Venice, before a pit stop in Lake Bled on the way to another of our favourite countries, Croatia ! Head along the coast, to some of the islands, and a pit stop to Mostar on your way to Dubrovnik . After Dubrovnik, don’t miss Kotor in Montenegro, before flying across to check out the booming Albanian Riviera. Head further off the tourist path with Lake Ohrid, Sofia, and Transylvania (Romania). Finish your amazing trip visiting 2 of our top big cities in Budapest and Prague !

• Switzerland: 1-2 weeks
• Italy 3-4 weeks
• Lake Bled 3 days
• Croatia 2-3 weeks
• Mostar 1-2 days
• Kotor 3-4 days
• Albanian Riviera 7 days
• Lake Ohrid 3-5 days
• Skopje 1 day
• Sofia 2 days
• Romania 5-7 days
• Budapest 2-3 days
• Prague 2-4 days

Option 2: Portugal, Spain, Sth France, Italy & Croatia

This is another amazing option to visit some of our few favourite European locations, including Portugal, southern Spain and France, Switzerland, Lake Bled and Sicily! Start you travels in one of the best countries around, Portugal ! Work down from Porto, Lisbon and the Algarve, before heading to the Andalusian region of Spain . A pit stop in Barcelona takes you through to the beautiful south of France . Don’t miss Avignon and Gordes! Head across to the Jungfrau region of Switzerland, and then make your way to northern Italy. We recommended Lake Garda over Como, and pit stop in Venice before stopping at the gorgeous Lake Bled ! Head down to the underrated Sicily in Italy to finish you adventures with great food, beaches and culture!

• Portugal: 1-2 weeks
• South Spain: 1 week
• Barcelona: 3 days
• South France: 1 week
• Switzerland: 1 week
• Northern Italy: 1 week
• Lake Bled: 2-3 days
• Southern Italy: 1-2 weeks

Option 3: Northern Europe

Start in one of our favourite cities in Europe, Edinburgh . Spend at least 3 days here, and try to get up to the Scottish Highlands if you can. Make your way down to London stopping at the historic towns of York and Cambridge. London has so much to offer, but could easily be sampled in a few days, or spend a longer timeframe and see so much more. Catch a train from London to Brussels , then check out some of the other smaller Belgian towns, with Bruges top of our list. Make your up to Leiden which we consider a ‘mini Amsterdam’ and is a great base to stay and visit the nearby Amsterdam . From the Netherlands, make your up to Copenhagen stopping a few times in Northern Germany . When at Copenhage n, stay at least 3 days in one of our favourite cities in Europe! Consider day trips the the Swiss town of Malmo by train (approximately 45minutes) or the fishing village of Hornbaek (1-2 hours via train). Tick off some of the top big cities in Europe with Berlin, Prague and Munich before slowing down a bit in the Jungfrau Region and lake region of Switzerland. We then encourage you to either finish your trip in 2 of our favourite countries, Italy or Croatia !

• Edinburgh: 3-4 days
• Scottish Highlands: 2-3 days
• York: 1-2 days
• Cambridge: 1-2 days
• London: 3-7 days
• Brussels: 2 days
• Bruges: 1-2 days
• Leiden: 1-2 days (or stay here for Amsterdam)
• Amsterdam: 1-3 days (pending if you stay Leiden or Amsterdam)
• Dusseldorf/Dortmund: 1-4 days
• Hamburg: 1-3 days
• Copenhagen: 3-5 days
• Hornbaek: 1-2 days (or day trip)
• Malmo: 1 day (or day trip)
• Berlin: 2-4 days
• Prague: 2-4 days
• Munich: 2-4 days
• Choose Italy or Croatia to finish your trip for 1-2 weeks

These are only example travel itineraries put together to spark inspiration and excitement! We have visited most of these locations, and have literally 100s of guides available on our blog. We have also put together some recommendations to help you travel. A few top options include our complete Europe Travel Guide and our Favourite Accommodation in Europe !

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Table of Contents

If you have a chance to plan a month-long trip to Europe, you have a chance to explore a variety of places in depth. It might be overwhelming to decide where to go on your European adventure, so here are three itineraries that you can use as they are, or you can use them as a starting point for your own customized one-month Europe itinerary.

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One Month Europe Itinerary: Western Europe

If you’ve never been to Europe and are hoping to fit in as much as you can, this tour is for you. Start your trip in Paris. This classic European city is popular with tourists and locals alike. Spend at least a few days here visiting iconic sights such as the Louvre art museum or the Eiffel Tower and unwinding with a pastry at a sidewalk cafe. Paris is a city with a thriving culture you’ll want to immerse yourself in, so don’t rush your time in this French city.

After experiencing the rich culture and history of Paris, head to Luxembourg . Spend some time exploring the Old Quarter of this small European country. This historic neighborhood is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in itself and is a winding maze of cobblestone alleyways and stone structures that you could spend days exploring. The Bock Casements are another unique historic site in Luxembourg – it’s a 10th century fortress and the casements in question are storage areas for military weapons and other equipment. Although the Treaty of London ordered the fortress to be destroyed in an effort to ease tensions, the casements remain and were actually opened to the public in 1933 as a bomb shelter. You can visit today to learn about this historic site.

After you get your fill of Luxembourg, continue on to Brussels . This city in Belgium is known for many things that you can spend your time exploring, but one of the most popular is its food. Waffles, chocolate, fries, and beer are all especially good when you try them in Belgium, and the country offers its own twist on these things you might think you’re familiar with already so be sure to give them a try when you’re visiting.

Make sure you spend at least one day in Belgium visiting Bruges. This can be a great day trip from Brussels, and you can spend your time wandering the picturesque streets. It’s also a great place for traveling by boat – Bruges is known as the “Venice of the North” !

From Brussels, head to Cologne . Spend a day wandering through the German Chocolate Museum or the National Sports Museum – two very different institutions but they both will give you a glimpse into the city’s culture. There are plenty of options for day trips as well, and you can take a detour to Phantasialand for an exciting day riding the rollercoasters.

After four or five days in Cologne, you can venture onwards to Dusseldorf. This city is the capital of North Rhine-Westphalia, which is the most populous state in the country. Experience the city by taking a stroll on the Rheinuferpromenade – this river walk is best experienced at sunset. You can head to the old town area to try out any of the hundreds of bars and restaurants that call the neighborhood home. The Rhine Tower stands high above the city offering incredible views from the observation deck or from the revolving restaurant.

Next, head west to Frankfurt , Germany. Stop by the Römerberg, a square lined with Medieval buildings. You can stop at one of the many sidewalk cafes for lunch or simply admire the grandeur of this historic space. Art buffs will love a chance to explore the Städel Museum as it hosts many 12th century works of art. The structure itself is historic as it was built in the 1800s. You can easily spend a few days exploring this museum and the many others that make up the city’s museum district.

One Month Europe Itinerary: The Balkans

The Balkans are a group of countries in eastern and central Europe that are well worth a trip. Start your Balkans adventure in Albania. This country is not often high on European travel bucket lists but it should be! Full of interesting cultural landmarks, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and a fantastic outdoor landscape, there is something for every type of traveler here. Head to the city of Shkoder for a few days and visit Rozafa Castle. The coastline of Albania also features beautiful beaches which are well worth a visit.

After a few days in Albania, you can continue to Skopje , North Macedonia. The city is known for its eclectic collection of statues that are scattered throughout the various neighborhoods. You can also spend time visiting the Old Bazaar, a 12th-century marketplace that is still operating to this day. You can grab some fresh food or a souvenir to mark your time in this incredible place.

From Skopje, head east to find the Bulgarian city of Sofia . There are plenty of historic sites to explore, but you will be especially pleased if you are a fan of the cultural arts. The city is home to legendary institutions such as the National Opera and Ballet of Bulgaria, the National Palace of Culture, the National Archaeological Museum, and the Serdica Amphitheatre.

From Bulgaria, head to Bucharest , Romania. This fantastic city is known for its architectural marvels and it’s known for having some of the fastest internet speeds in the world thanks to its huge concentration of IT companies. That said – you won’t want to spend time browsing the internet when you have the city of Bucharest to explore!

Next, spend some time in Montenegro . The coastal region of this country is located in the Lustica Peninsula and is home to the incredible Blue Grotto. This sea cave exists in such a way that the sunlight reflects off of the sandy ocean floor and creates a stunning effect inside the cave. When you enter you’ll be amazed by the iridescent blue waters inside. Montenegro also has several other beaches – about 117 in total! Spend some time relaxing here before traveling onwards.

Finish your Balkans adventure in Dubrovnik , a coastal city in Croatia. This historic city is recognizable to many as it was used as the filming location for King’s Landing in the hit HBO television show, Game of Thrones. Even if you’re not a fan of the show, there are several incredible historic sites to visit and tours you can take to learn about the history of the city.

One Month Europe Itinerary: Alpine Adventure

The Alps are one of the most magnificent mountain ranges in the world and if you are planning to spend a month in Europe, why not spend it exploring some of the Alpine countries. Start in Switzerland , where you can explore small picturesque towns and soak in some truly remarkable views. There are several train routes that allow you to travel through the region but if you have the chance to ride on the Glacier Express then you should! The Glacier Express offers large windows covering the sides and the top of the train that allows passengers to get a truly unique view of the region.

From Switzerland, head to Monaco. Many don’t think of Monaco when they are planning a vacation through the Alps but this country is a significant part of the region. Like with many other places in the area you can find some unique opportunities to ski, cycle, and participate in other outdoor activities. Monaco lies on the coast so you can also try your hand at sailing or other water activities. The country is also famous for its opulent casinos.

After several days in Monaco, head to Italy. The Italian portion of the alps lies on the northern tip of the country and is quite a distance from Rome, the Amalfi Coast, and other famous Italian locations you might also want to visit. That said, you can easily take an excursion towards the southern part of the country. One of the highlights of the Italian Alps is Lake Como . This thriving resort area has been a famed getaway for centuries and provides stunning views and ample opportunities to relax and unwind.

Next, head to the portion of the Alps that lie in the country of Lichtenstein . You can spend a few days here exploring the medieval castles, picturesque villages, and beautiful mountains before heading to Austria. There are plenty of grand palaces, beautiful gardens, and historic structures that you can tour to learn more about the country. If you’re interested in outdoor activities you’ll have plenty of options to explore this stunning landscape while hiking, skiing, cycling, and more.

Video Guide: One Month in Europe Itinerary Ideas

Travel Resources for Planning a One Month in Europe

To make planning your month-long trip or a one-month Europe itinerary easier, we included some of our recommended travel resources below. You can search and find the best flights, transportation options, hotels to stay in, tours/activities, and things you can do at each destination during your trip.

Agoda : Search thousands of destinations around the world & quickly compare prices to find amazing deals on the best flights.

CheapOAir : You can find airline tickets, hotel rooms, rental cars, and vacation packages all on one site!

Kiwi.com : What we like about Kiwi is the fact that they are able to create combinations of flight, train, and bus tickets and offer them in a single itinerary. Also, Kiwi has what they called “ Nomad ” which helps you find the best way of visiting multiple destinations, saving you time and money.

JetRadar : You can search and compare airfares from 726 airlines and dozens of travel agencies and systems.

Agoda : Agoda is one of the world’s largest online travel accommodation platforms with a network of over 2,000,000 vacation rentals and hotels worldwide.

Hotellook : They have more than 250,000 hotels in 205 countries, working with data from more than 10 online booking systems, such as Booking.com, Agoda.com, Hotels.com, Expedia, and others.

Transportations:  

Airport Transfers :  KiwiTaxi ,  Viator

Train :  EuroRail ,  Trainline  or  RailEurope  

Bus :  Flixbus : Very affordable (as low as $6) and convenient way to transfer between cities in Europe.

Car Rentals :  AutoEurope ,  EconomyBookings ,  or   GetTransfer  (transfers & car rentals with a personal driver)

Bike Rental :  BikesBooking  (Bikes & scooter rentals) 

Transportation Comparison :  Omio  (search, compare, and book tickets for buses, trains, and flights all in one site)

Tours & Activities :

TakeWalks  (WalkofItaly): This is our favorite site for walking tours & day trips.

Tiqets : Great site for entrance tickets. It offers directly bookable, instantly available, and completely mobile tickets for museums, shows, and attractions all over the world.

Musement : They have good activities and tours in Italy and Spain, also many great day trips you can choose from.

GetYourGuide : A large number of tours, excursions, and other travel activities

Viator : The largest one. It has everything from tours, attractions, shore excursions, and private guides in over 2,700 destinations worldwide. It also has many transportations and transfers options and some unique experiences we didn’t find anywhere else.

Need help planning a one-month Europe Itinerary?

Want to plan a one-month Europe itinerary to these European destinations but don’t know where to begin? If you find this type of trip planning to be too complicated to plan on your own, we’re here to help!

At  MultiCityTrips , multi-destination travel and complicated itineraries such as a month-long trip or one-month Europe itinerary to multiple destinations in Europe are our specialties.  Contact us  today to learn more about how one of our experienced travel experts/destination specialists can  personalize your multi-city vacations   at the best price.

Don’t want to start from scratch and need some trip inspiration? Check out our  marketplace  for customizable pre-designed packages available right now for many amazing destinations.

To learn more about how our process of trip planning works in detail, please see our “ How It Works ” page or check out our video on  “How to Plan a Multi-City Trip to Europe in  5 Easy Steps”   here.

Have questions for us?  Schedule a FREE Call  with us here or contact one of the travel experts/destination specialists at  [email protected] , call/text us at  (888)223-2316  today.

Private Travel Coaching & Consulting Call

Want to plan and book your upcoming trip yourself? If this is your first time traveling to any of the European destinations or you are new to multi-city, multi-country travel but prefer to manage every part of your trip on your own, this option is for you! 

For just  $150 per hour , our destination expert can answer any questions you might have as you plan and book your dream trip. From assisting with route planning, and destination selection, recommending the best areas or places to stay, the best transportation options, things to do and see, saving tips and so much more! 

Ready to plan your trip with our help? Book your private coaching session with our destination expert now and we’ll confirm your appointment within 24 hours!

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7 of the Best Day Trips from Milan by Train You’ll Love

Travel resources for planning your own trip.

To make planning your European trip on your own easier, in addition to what already mentioned in our travel guide, we included some of our recommended travel resources below. You can search and find the best flights, transportation options, hotels to stay in, tours/activities, and things you can do in any destination using these travel resources:

European River Cruises:

Uniworld River Cruises : The world’s best and most awarded luxury river cruise line—offers itineraries in spectacular destinations throughout Europe, Russia, Egypt, Asia, and Peru. The company’s European fleet features luxurious ships with an average capacity of 120 guests, the highest staff-to-guest ratio in the river cruise industry, enticing shore excursions, world-class gourmet cuisine, impeccable hospitality, and numerous other all-inclusive benefits.

Pre- and Post-cruise/Tour Extensions:  Uniworld curated pre-and post-cruise/tour extensions make it easy to add a few days to the front or back end of your trip while leaving the planning to them

The packages include a variety of hotel options, transfers, and a dedicated destination expert to escort you along the way.

Airport Transfers & Transportations:  

Airport Transfers: GetTransfer offers both airport transfers & car rentals with a personal driver. Other airport transfer options are KiwiTaxi and Viator.

Train :  EuroRail ,  Trainline ,  or  RailEurope are all great sites for train tickets as well as Rail Passes if you would like to add more flexibility to your trip. They are good for most trains throughout Europe. For trains in Italy, we like and recommend ItaliaRail . As for Portugal, you will need to go to the official website for Comboios de Portugal (the Portuguese train company) to book your train tickets when traveling in Portugal.

CarRentals :  AutoEurope ,  EconomyBookings ,  or   GetTransfer  (transfers & car rentals with a personal driver)

Bike Rental :  BikesBooking is a great site for bikes & scooter rentals

Travel Insurance:

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How I Planned a 1 Month Trip in Europe – On a Budget

Are you planning a trip to Europe? This might help you get started. Some years ago, I discovered my passion for travelling and, more specifically, for travelling alone. Yes, it was scary, but this is how I planned my one-month trip in Europe, travelling alone, on a budget.

Disclaimer: It was 2016 before all these budget-saving apps were even available. I had to walk around with a map in my hand.

One month in Europe: Why travel alone?

Why planning a trip to Europe is probably one of the best things for personal development ? It might not be for everyone, but it sure helps lots of people, just like travelling helped me.

It gives me this immense freedom to do what I want when I feel like it, and more than that, I benefit from this never-ending source of experiencing myself through a new place and different people I meet along the way.

For those who have tried it or still do it, you will know what I’m talking about. If you are among the others, then here is a good read for you, a piece I wrote about travelling alone for the first time .

I cannot tell you enough about how much it will help you with your personal growth. Yes, there are greater things yet to be discovered about yourself, and here are some of my conclusions – Great Things Which Happened to Me After I Started Travelling Alone.

If your biggest question is ‘How much does it cost to travel one month in Europe?”.

1 month Europe trip cost

When it comes to planning a trip to Europe, many people start asking about costs. Here’s a list of things to help you plan a budget trip to Europe . Note that these Europe trip cost details are from 2016.

But the answer is that it’s up to you!

If there is one thing you get out of this blog post, it’s that comfort comes at a price, and it isn’t cheap .

In my case, I didn’t pay for accommodation because I planned my trip around the places I have some friends (or used Couchsurfing ), and it cost me well under 1000 Euros (it was in 2016).

The total cost of my transport which I had to book was 170 Euros. After I added the price of the food and other costs (museums, city transport), it added up to 800 Euros.

Keep on reading to see how I did it and what my strategy is for planning a one-month Euro trip under 1000 Euros.

How I travelled cheap, on a budget in Europe for 1 month ?

How I started planning a 1-month trip to Europe

In 2016 I was based in Klagenfurt, a small town in the south of Austria. That’s a great location to travel around Europe because it’s right in the centre.

It was about one month before the actual trip, and because I was tired of waiting for my friends to decide if we were going to do something together, I said to myself, “I’m gonna plan my own holiday, and I will make the most out of it .”

Yes, I have some  tips for you to plan your own holiday , but it will always depend on a lot of other things too. The country, budget, and personal lifestyle. I mean, cheap is a trade-off for comfort and time.

The entire process of planning took me one day. Yes, it was one day of work. Writing prices and locations down. And comparing. Trying different combos.

Planning a trip in Europe: Itinerary planning for budget backpacking in Europe

Your Europe itinerary comes down to money (again).

Years later, I’ve finally written a complete guide on how to plan a trip to Europe , and you should check it out if this is what you’re trying to figure out right now.

So there I was in front of my laptop, with only 400 Euros in my bank account (please keep in mind this was 2016!). Ok, I knew by the time I had to leave, I would have another 330 Euros. But that was for the actual trip (things like food and other unforeseen expenses).

When you travel on a budget, planning plays a huge role.

I had the entire of Europe to choose my locations, so I was flexible about the places , not about the money. Europe on a budget was my only plan.

And I had only one place which was for sure on the list – Paris. But other than that, no clue.

The core of my trip was planning my European route, which depends on transport connections, prices, friends who live there and weather.

Everything was so tied up it was hard to decide.

I checked the weather for the month and decided the week I was going to be in Paris.

Then I had to find a cheap way to get there (by bus). That was my starting point. I knew I wanted to reach Paris, and I had an approximate date because I wanted sunshine, not rainy days.

However, I had a couple of rainy days too. September can be a weird month, but at least it was warm.

Other than Paris, I had no idea where to go next. So I just check all the possible destinations, sorting them by price and checking each one how much it would cost to get to another one from there. I was checking all options, in and out of Paris.

And then I sorted everything based on the price to get there. Remember that you also need to add the cost of transportation from the airport to the city centre. Most budget airports are outside the cities, and a one-way trip to the city can be as much as 20 Euros. So I had to check that too.

Also, I was trying to find the perfect balance between the number of places to visit and the time spent in each city . I don’t like to rush through cities. When you travel for more than a few days, it will get you exhausted, and it’s a good idea to plan some resting days too.

I am going to walk you through my method of building a cheap itinerary in Europe and will explain each destination as I build the final list of stops from my Euro backpacking trip.

My strategy for planning the cheapest trip in Europe (I used all means of transport in Europe – plane, train and bus)

I wrote all about transport in Europe in this post: How to plan a budget trip to Europe .

After I had an idea of where I wanted to go first (Paris), I was on a mission to find the best and cheapest way to get there . Sure, there were 100 Euros train tickets and even more expensive plane tickets, but I was looking to find something less than 50 Euros to get there. When I say travel budget in Europe, I mean it.

At that time, I was based in Klagenfurt, Austria.

The plane was out of the question (in Austria). Too expensive. Then, I opened Google Maps and started to check trains and buses to get there, or somewhere close to France anyway.

That’s how I got to book a train to Frankfurt via Vienna. It was the best option for me, and it was a perfect opportunity to visit Frankfurt as well. And I was getting closer to Paris. It sounded like a good plan. I had no friends in Frankfurt, but it was one for one night, so I decided to use Couchsurfing.

Now they have a Lauda Motion, a low-cost airline flying to Vienna, and life is so much better. It’s like Ryanair, literally. You buy the tickets on the same website!

When travelling in Europe, the  train can be expensive . Next plan: flying. Yes, there are cheap airlines, low cost, but at the time, they were not in Austria. So, I found a pretty decent train ticket to Frankfurt.

Ok, so I decided to spend 2 days (1 night) there.

And on the second day, I found a night bus from Frankfurt to Zurich. I was getting closer to Paris, without spending all my money on the train ticket.

The great advantage of that cheap night bus was that I was leaving Frankfurt at midnight and arriving in Zurich, Switzerland, in the morning. That gave me the entire day to explore Frankfurt and also a full day in Zurich.

Taking two buses was cheaper than taking the train directly to Paris, so that’s why I added Zurich to my European tour map. Only for one day, and then took another night bus to Paris.

For that one day in Zurich, I locked my backpack in a locker at the train station , for which I paid quite a lot. I don’t remember exactly because the prices are in Francs, but I would say it was around 8 Euros. I wasn’t expecting it, but I got to see Zurich.

Also, I’m glad I didn’t get any other ideas because that place is so expensive. No wonder they don’t care about the European Union stuff. A sandwich at the metro was 10 Euros. A stamp = 3 Euros and a postcard = 3 Euros. A beer = 7 Euros (2016). Enough said.

After one sunny day in Zurich, I hopped on another night bus to Paris. By this time, I was so tired my body was hurting. I recommend booking a night bus only if you are under 25 or desperate.

The next morning I arrived in Paris.

Paris is huge. Therefore, I had many transport options. Low-cost airlines, buses, trains, Bla Bla car. Everything. My thoughts on Paris here (sarcasm included). I spent one week in Paris. Here’s a useful guide on how to spend 2 days in Paris . A few days with a friend and the rest of the week with someone I found on Couchsurfing .

Having friends in Dublin , I decided to go there next. The plane ticket was cheap; I bought it five weeks before. I spent six days in Dublin.

Note that the duration of each stay was also determined by the day on which the cheapest flights were.

So if the next cheap flight was in six days, then I would stay six days. If there was a cheap flight in seven days, then I would stay seven days; that was my reasoning.

From Dublin, the options were not so many. And going too far from home was not an option because it meant an expensive return ticket. (Yes, I’ve tested all the options).

Also, there are lots of things to do in Dublin that do not include visiting a bar . And if you make it to Ireland, I can’t recommend enough going to Northern Ireland and visiting the Giant Causeway . It’s just magical.

From Dublin, I found that Copenhagen was really cheap at that time. It’s ironic, considering how crazy expensive Denmark is. So I bought that cheap plane ticket to Copenhagen. Here’s a curated list of top things to do in Copenhagen on your first trip. Since then, I have visited this gorgeous city once more.

I spent another six days there—the same reasoning with the plane prices.

From there, the options were already limited. It was either a long time on a bus or a plane.

I had to get closer to Austria, So I was looking for destinations closer to my home base. I was looking for a destination that had a cheap on-land connection to the home .

While I couldn’t find anything bus, train, or plane to take me closer to Austria, I checked prices for plane tickets to Italy.

If you are in for a special treat, try to book a day trip from Milan, since it’s so close to Como Lake.

Most of the time, planes to Milan have a great price, going from all over Europe. Mine plane was less than 25 EUR. You can still find similar tickets today, but you will need to add an extra carry on or checked luggage, since the rules for luggage have changed since then.

But back in 2016, for 25 EUR, I flew from Copenhagen to Milan. That’s why I decided to go to Milan for one night. And the perk of this destination was that there was a direct cheap night train heading home in Southern Austria—total bliss. For complete disclosure, that train was a night train, which was about 26EUR, but that’s still better than a night bus because you have room to move.

Tips to find cheap accommodation in Europe

During my constant coordination between prices, tickets, and times, I had to keep in mind accommodation. I always check my Facebook friends to see the cities in which I have friends.

This step is a highly important step. Accommodation in Europe is not cheap . A cheap hostel is around 20 Euros per night , and then when you multiply that by 30 nights… it’s not gonna go well if you’re on a budget. It’s not an option for a 1-month trip in Europe.

So when you are looking to find cheap accommodation in Europe, try taking a night bus/train and save that money. Two in one. Transport and accommodation . Although the level of comfort declines.

*After spending 2 nights in a row on a bus, I felt so tired, the first thing I did when I arrived in Paris was to sleep for 5 hours.*

As a last resort, check Booking for some cheap hostels , and always make sure you have a little extra money. For emergencies, you know?

If you happen to meet friends on the way (or make new ones), a nice flat on Airbnb could save you for the night.

I was also confused if I should even consider expensive cities like Copenhagen. I had no idea if I should visit that place. But the weather was great. (I was constantly checking the weather, monthly predictions, etc.).

I knew nobody there, or so I thought. I literally searched on Facebook for “Friends who live in Copenhagen.” I have a friend from high school living there. (After arriving there, I realised I had another friend and two colleagues from the university there. I guess most people are over Facebook at this point, because most of us don’t update our profiles anymore.)

The only two places in which I had no friends prior to my trip were Frankfurt and Milan. I spent only one night in each, so I used Couchsurfing to find a host .

All in all, I’m grateful for all the wonderful people I’ve met and for all their help. This backpacking trip made me realize that people are genuinely kind. Most of them, anyway.

I met amazing people, more than welcoming, and I totally recommend it. I also used the Couchsurfing app a lot to find a buddy for a day, visit a museum, or eat ice cream.

I said it before, and I will say it again – Couchsurfing is More Than Just a Free Bed For The Night .

To sum it up, here are my tips for finding cheap accommodation in Europe:

• Check hostel beds. Try to get a bed in a smaller room for more comfort. If you’re travelling to popular locations (such as Paris or London), book well in advance.
• Check out Couchsurfing. Nowadays, you need a subscription to access it, but I believe it is for the better, as it keeps the weirdos out.
• Research hotel location. In the end, it might be worth paying a bit more for a place that is conveniently located, so you will save much more on transport tickets.
• Reach out to friends and former colleagues. I bet most of them won’t mind helping you out for a couple of days.

Managing travel dates and times during my one-month travel around Europe

Considering the lowest costs for that given time frame, planning a trip in Europe required lots of price checking and notes about different options. It was almost like a game of chess, but the outcome was all up to me.

I picked the days based on the price of the ticket. For example, taking a plane from Copenhagen to Milan was half price on a Monday than on Saturday or Sunday.

The cheapest plane tickets are during the week. Monday – Wednesday. The night buses/trains were also cheaper. Or the ones leaving very early in the morning.

A lot of my mornings were spent chasing a train somewhere in those cities. Or arriving. Which is great if you want to make the most out of your day there.

What apps did I use planning and during my 1-month trip in Europe?

Google Maps – whenever the obvious departure and arrival point had too expensive tickets, I stared at the map and searched for “What is close enough and can be cheaper?” (That was a question for me, not Google.)

OBB  –  The Austrian railway company. It’s cheap if you buy it a week before. It’s comfortable. The connections are great. Love it. I was always trying to use the train whenever getting in or out of the country.

Flixbus is a bus company which operates in many countries in Europe. Probably the cheapest one. It’s a bus; it’s ok. But it can be late, so don’t plan to catch a plane after a bus ride. Take some hours in between as a safety measure. And regarding safety, well… it’s like a car. A lot of things can happen on the highway.

Ryanair is a low-cost European airline with great connections and really cheap tickets. Each plane ticket (Paris – Dublin, Dublin – Copenhagen, Copenhagen – Milan was less than 26 Euros).

Sure, nowadays, they have changed their policies, and they basically charge extra for everything (cabin luggage, seat selection, etc.), but it still is one cheap airline.

Just make sure to follow all their rules, and you won’t be charged extra. Install their mobile phone to always have the boarding pass on hand! Please check out my guide on planning a Europe trip for my best and updated tips.

Kiwi is one of my favourites to check for all kinds of flight connections. Low cost or not, this is worth checking, and I love it.

Couchsurfing is an online platform for travellers, open-minded people who have a great passion for travelling and love meeting fellow travellers and/or locals. I used it to find people to hang out with or to find a place to stay. Great, amazing community. Too bad some speak poorly of it. I have many amazing memories because of it, and I have many more friends because of it. Read more about my experiences with Couchsurfing .

What else to keep in mind? Booking.com in case you need a last-minute place to stay.

Don’t forget about travel insurance ! You should always be on the safe side!

Check out the ultimate list for how to travel cheap in Europe for one month in Europe!

Destinations for my 1-month trip in Europe

Oh boy, I felt exhausted after a day of sitting on a chair and killing the internet. And extremely proud of my achievement. And not a single night had to be spent in a hostel. Mastery.

The total cost of my transport which I had to book was 170 Euros. The year of this trip was 2016. After I added the price of the food and other costs (museums, city transport), it added up to 800 Euros.

This is what my final itinerary looked like.

Klagenfurt (Austria) – Frankfurt (Germany) – Zurich (Switzerland) – Paris (France) – Dublin (Ireland) – Copenhagen (Denmark) – Milan (Italy) – Klagenfurt (Austria)

If you’re looking for a Europe itinerary for your first European adventure, check out my recommended itinerary for 3-weeks in Europe . I promise it will be fabulous.

The outcome of planning my own backpacking trip

I was always waiting for someone else to bring me along on their trips or plan everything for me. Oh, I had no idea what I was missing.

This simple, basic thing gives a feeling of self-control and confidence, and it illustrates how in the end, we can manage everything.

What’s in it for you when planning a trip to Europe for yourself ?

You get to decide each step of the way, how long you stand, and what to see. You truly feel like you have complete control over your life.

I manage to travel cheaper and decide my own pace of travelling, destinations, and means of transport.

And it put a smile on my face on those mornings when, at 3 a.m., I was waking up and heading to the airport. Because it was all me. Every second of, it was my idea, and I happily embraced it.

But I had to put in the work. Nothing worth having comes easy or cheap. And cheap isn’t always about the money.

Thanks for reading (assuming you made it this far).

This is my strategy for planning a backpacking trip to Europe , and I hope it helps.

Years later, I still read this blog post and find it hard to understand how I did it, but this is proof that most things happen when you HAVE to make them happen, not when you have extra cash to pump into your 1-month trip to Europe.

Travelling on a budget to Europe happens only when you are truly committed to living on a budget, and the reality is that not all of us are. Unfortunately.

There is still a lot to be said, but I hope you got the idea. Anyway, feel free to tell me about your plans and travel ideas, and I will try my best to help you. When I don’t travel, it makes me really happy to help someone else travel!

Please share, pin, and tell your friends! Travel cheap to Europe and be happy!

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Iulia Vasile

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

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Tell me what you think cancel reply, 10 comments.

[…] few years ago, I saw a lot of Europe on a really tight budget and wrote a blog post on how I found the best and cheapest travel options in Europe and travel in Europe for a […]

Thanks for inspiring me! You really helped me to plan this out. And I really agree with traveling alone because waiting the others really not worth it ahahaha *sorry for my bad grammar

I am so glad!! Happy travels and may you have the greatest time! I am sure you will love it!

[…] If you are planning a trip to Europe, make sure to check all my tips on how I planned a 1-month trip to Europe on a budget. […]

[…] Read more on How I planned a 1 Month Trip in Europe – On a Budget […]

[…] I was travelling across Europe, I realized this one simple thing, that travelling doesn’t require loads of money. I used […]

[…] is an affordable country in Europe and has pretty much everything Earth has to offer to its inhabitants: mountains, seaside, rivers, […]

[…] PS. This is how to travel 1 month around Europe, ON A BUDGET! […]

Hi Julia I can see myself in you we are just like the same person. I’m going to Europe in 1 month and if I could write any review I would do exactly the same like you. I really your inspiration. Thank you for all your articles. Pam

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Europe Trip – 6 Months, 16 Countries, 55 Cities, 11 Languages

At A Glance

• 55 cities,
• 16 countries.

That’s one third of the 44 countries in Europe.

• And 8% of the world, out of the 195 countries in the world.

Get more travel tips & hacks for your favourite destinations!

55  cities,, 16  countries., and  8% of the world, out of the 195 countries in the world..

And that’s the number of places I’ve covered in 6 months while travelling around Europe from January to June 2015.

Equipped with my Europe packing list , I set off to Europe for the first time, and I’ve discovered a world far bigger than I’ve imagined.

You can find some of the Europe trip itineraries from the cities I’ve been to below in that 6 months in Europe. This is especially useful if you’re looking to travel Europe on a budget .

In chronological order, I’ve been to:

• Zaanse Schans
• Trouville-Deauville
• Georgensmünd
• Cinque Terre
• Vatican City

You may find links accompanying each of the destinations I’ve been to. They contain my personal experience while spending the 6 months in Europe, as well as some handy tips for making the most of your experience there.

Planning a trip to Europe needn’t be stressful or overwhelming. You can start with this list of 50+ Europe travel tips that teaches you the best way to travel Europe. The cheapest way to travel Europe is by budget airlines, buses and trains.

Europe is a cluster of countries that are relatively close by, so travelling between cities and countries are less arduous than countries like USA or Canada where the land area is massive!

This page will be continuously updated with up to date links, so keep checking back!

If you have further queries regarding the destinations I’ve been/ how to budget, feel free to ask me !

‘Til then, au revoir !

Neglecting to broaden their view has kept some people doing one thing all their lives. – Napolean Hill

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Isabel Leong

Full-time travel blogger at Bel Around The World and SEO coach roaming the world at a whim, Isabel helps aspiring content creators and brands get the most out of their online presence by attracting organic leads/traffic and achieving financial freedom with her Skyrocket With SEO course. She's closely involved in and has been featured as a speaker in other travel & digital nomad networks & podcasts such as Traverse, Travel Massive, The Nomadic Network and Location Indie.

Hi! I'm Isabel, a full-time traveller and digital nomad from Singapore. In the past 10 years, I've lived in New Zealand , Japan , Kauai Hawaii , Mexico , Costa Rica and Bali . Pulling from my own world travel adventures and blogging lessons, I share my tried and tested tips, so that I can get YOU to work LESS and play MORE!

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Bel28 is a sunday in Singapore.

This looks awesome, what a great trip 🙂 Which one was your favourite ?

It’s hard to say – each gave me a very special experience. I loved the mountains in Switzerland, the plains in the Cotswolds, the hot air balloon in Turkey, the cosmpolitan Amsterdam and the tarts in Portugal! Have you been to these places? 🙂

Wow! That is really amazing….traveling the world, meeting people, learning cultures, marveling nature as well as man-made architectural wonders…this is what great life is made of.

Yes I can’t agree more! Everyone should take the time to do that once in a while- to truly LIVE.

wow this is amazing!

Yeah when I look back and see how far I’ve gone, I amaze myself too.

Yes I am sure!! amazing!

Thanks a lot Lynz 🙂

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Hi, do you have the itinerary for your travels? It’s quite difficult planning how to get to places and which places to go next! 🙁 Thanks in advance!

Hi Pee Jay,

Thanks for popping by!

Where exactly are you looking at? I might have depending on which destinations you’re going to! 🙂

Hi Isabel, most of the countries which you have visited are in the Schengen region (except UK).How did you manage to stay in the regions for 6 months? According to the travel rule, traveller only can stay in Schengen region for 90 days out of 180. Kindly advise

Hi Edison, Thanks for your query! I was on a student exchange that’s why. 🙂

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As a Brit I am slightly biased, but please return and see more of the country! Especially Devon and Cornwall; Pembrokeshire; and the some of the cities and national parks up north such as the lake district and Yorkshire dales. Scotland would be its own trip entirely !

Granted a lot of what I would show people would involve a lot of coastal walks and hikes up mountains which isn’t everyone’s thing.

What an excellent guide and list. Thanks for sharing!

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30 Days in Europe: Travel Tips & Itinerary Ideas

Discover Europe in 30 days with our tips and itinerary ideas for a diverse and enriching adventure

A budget-friendly journey blending adventure and culture awaits

Welcome, willkommen, bienvenue to Europe, one of the most diverse continents on the planet. Steeped in history, culture and tradition, Europe is famously abundant with art, antiquity, and ornate architecture –there’s good reason why the Grand Tour was a right of passage for the 18th-century aristocracy– and a 30-day tour offers a chance to experience more than a brief snapshot of its character and beauty.

With 44 countries spanning nearly four million square miles (10m sq. km), Europe is a vast yet surprisingly connected continent. In a month, you can beach hop around the Mediterranean, trek through the Tatra Mountains, and see Amsterdam through Rembrandt’s lens with ease.

Spending 30 days in Europe costs less than you think. While it’s relatively cheap and straightforward to fly between major cities, exploring by road or rail is the most popular – and best – way to see Europe. Whether you want to scale the lofty Eiffel Tower in Paris, explore Rome’s ancient Colosseum, or see the gargantuan dome of the Hagia Sofia in Istanbul, a well-thought-out itinerary can be accessible to all budgets. 

One of the most logical, convenient, and time-savvy ways to see Europe is on an organized adventure, where all the planning, logistics, and hard work is done for you. Whether you’re on a backpackers’ budget or want a once-in-a-lifetime holiday, here’s how to get the best out of Europe in just 30 days .

Top tips for planning your itinerary

1. don’t try to see everything.

Rome wasn’t built in a day. And Europe can’t be seen in a month, but you can scratch more than the surface on a 30-day traveling budget. Whether you want to tick off the top sights or spend your time more leisurely and get to know the vibe of a city, research, and planning is always the key to a successful trip. 

Feeling free and easy? Why not leave the itinerary to the professionals and book an organized adventure? With many trips starting in London, the adventures begin as soon as they hit the rails or road, traveling through key cities across Europe, including Barcelona, Amsterdam, Paris, Berlin and Budapest.

2. Schedule in plenty of downtime

So many cities, so little time can be the death knell of fun when you’re traveling. While it’s tempting to pack your 30 days in Europe to the brim, it’s important to remember it’s a holiday, not a challenge. Let go of the FOMO and factor in some downtime on the beach or in the mountains to rest and recharge.

3. Pick your top destinations

Whether you want to island hop around Greece, bathe in Iceland’s Blue Lagoon or embark on a Game of Thrones pilgrimage to Dubrovnik, take time to choose what you really want to get out of your 30 days in Europe. Have a wish list as a baseline and work your itinerary and budget around it.

There are dozens of 30-day organized adventures available across Europe, many of which combine the big-hitting city stops like Amsterdam, Paris and Berlin, along with lesser-known destinations like Kotor, Tirana and Delphi.

How to get around Europe

Although vast, Europe is an accessible continent and you can cover plenty of distance in 30 days. Depending on your budget and what you want to achieve, flying is usually the quickest way to hop between major cities; however, you do lose much of the charm you get from seeing Europe from ground level.

Traveling by train is one of the best ways to explore the continent. Europe has an extensive cross-border rail network which is reliable, efficient, and reasonably priced. Eurail offers interrailing passes that fit a 30-day budget and allow more freedom to explore on your own timetable.

If keeping costs down is a major factor, low-cost coach and bus services such as FlixBus and Infobus can be good options, having routes to more than 1200 destinations in 24 countries.

Alternatively, booking an organized adventure will really make the most of your 30 days on the continent. There are dozens of brilliant itineraries covering all interests and budgets –almost always including travel, accommodation, and the services of a tour leader– it’s a great way to travel around Europe with like-minded people. 

See Also: The Seven Most Scenic Train Rides in Europe

30 days in Europe: Where to go and what to do

With 30 days to play with, Europe really can be your oyster. Amsterdam to Antwerp, London to Ljubljana, Zurich to Zagreb, you can easily check out 10 countries or more on a 30-day budget. Classic Europe itineraries include Paris, Amsterdam, Barcelona, while the more unique itineraries include destinations like Pamplona, Liechtenstein, and the Rhineland. Focus on one or two regions and get stuck into seeing the best of it on a 30-day European holiday. 

See Also: 50 Fabulous and Free Things to Do in Europe

Western Europe

From Anne Frank Huis in Amsterdam to the Zurich opera, most classic pan-European tours focus on the big hitters – Paris, Berlin, Rome, Venice, Barcelona – where there’s enough culture and history to fill 300 days, let alone 30. 

Some organized adventures will take a deeper dive into western Europe, starting in London and winding through 18 or 19 destinations, including Biarritz and Madrid, the French Riviera and Monaco, Florence, Venice, and Rome, while others will include a river cruise through the Rhineland, a tour of Cologne and the last few days enjoying Amsterdam.

Southern Europe

Sweeping across from Spain to Serbia, the southern Europe region incorporates Portugal, Italy, Greece, Turkey, Croatia, Albania, Slovenia and more. From the temples of ancient Greece, the ruins of Rome to the beaches of Spain, Cyprus, and Albania, southern Europe is great for combining culture and kick-back time. 

For something a little different from the classic European Grand Tour, book an organized adventure that takes in the most fascinating destinations along the Mediterranean and Dardania route. Several 30-day itineraries have options that start in Tirana, Albania, and wind across the length of southern Europe, including overnights in Naples and Pompeii, Durmitor National Park in Montenegro, Sarajevo, Belgrade and Budapest.

Central and Eastern Europe

From the emerald-hued Plitviče Lakes in Croatia and the bohemian nightlife of Sofia, to the Gothic architecture and beer taverns of Prague, there are a million and one reasons to include central and eastern regions on your 30-day European trip, not least because these affordable cities will make a tight budget stretch even further.

Whether you start in Vienna or Vilnius, there are a number of organized adventures that explore central and Eastern Europe’s most captivating cities, including Bucharest, Sofia, and Plovdiv. Alternatively, choose an itinerary that ventures into the rugged landscape of the High Tatra Mountains between Poland and Slovakia.

Northern Europe

With its design-centric cities, glacial fjords and stark arctic wilderness, Northern Europe can feel like an entirely different planet, compared to the rest of the continent. From the geothermal waters of Iceland’s Blue Lagoon, and the pop culture museums of Stockholm to the fjords of Norway, there are plenty of reasons to head north on your adventure. 

From Copenhagen and Oslo to Stockholm, you can have some incredible Nordic adventures on these 30-day itineraries across northern Europe. Several include overnight cruises from Stockholm to Helsinki or crossing over the Arctic Circle to Rovaniemi in Finnish Lapland. 

For more inspiration — or to book a hassle-free holiday and travel with a group of like-minded people — check out our full range of 30-day Europe tours.

See Also: The Best Places to Travel Alone in Europe

Tracey Davies

Tracey Davies is a Brighton-based travel writer, journalist and editor of 101 Singles Holidays, as well as a former co-host of “The Carry On” travel podcast.

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Two Months in Europe Itinerary  

Welcome to our two months in Europe Itinerary! Europe is absolutely awash with beautiful cities and full of activities so it’s no wonder the region is one of the most popular destinations for backpackers. No matter what you enjoy doing, Europe has an array of climates to satisfy your desires; from skiing in the Alps or relaxing on a beach overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, the possibilities are endless!

Our Two Months in Europe Itinerary provides you with the best route around Europe so you can see as much of Europe in the shortest possible time. We’ll also recommend how long to stay; what to do; where to stay; and the average cost per day for each destination. 

If you are travelling around Europe, here are some other guides you might find useful!

• The 23 Best Hostels in Europe
• The Top Party Destinations in Europe
• Tips for Travelling Europe on a Budget

Do I need a visa for my Two Month Europe Itinerary? 

Now, this entirely depends on your nationality. For example, if you’re a UK National, despite Brexit, you can still travel to the EU/Schengen Area for up to 90 days WITHOUT needing to apply for a visa. In addition, Canadian or American nationals can also travel visa-free for up to 90 days. 

To clarify whether you need to apply for a visa before entering the EU/Schengen Area, we’d advise checking your respective country’s foreign department and the European Commission’s Migration and Home Affairs policy on Visas.

What to pack for Two Months in Europe? 

Some people may recommend taking a wheeled suitcase for two months in Europe and we completely understand why. However, if you are trying to keep this trip as budget-friendly as possible (like we did) you may well find yourself walking through old towns and up a lot of hills. Europe is notorious for its cute cobbled alleys, which while beautiful are not ideal for wheeled suitcases.

We would recommend taking a 40L backpack such as this Osprey one . If you find yourself having to take a flight here and there, you’ll appreciate not having to spend extra on checked-in baggage – which can double your flight price in Europe. If you are not planning on taking many flights, this larger Osprey backpack is the one we use for all our travels and it has a perfectly sized zip-off backpack for day trips.

European weather can be very unpredictable and throughout this two-month trip, it is likely you will experience varying degrees of temperatures and climates, and this can be minimised depending on the time you visit. We started with bright sunshine and ended with lots of snow; because of this, layers are your best friend. A comfy pair of shoes is an absolute must as you will be walking a lot; we brought two pairs each and felt this was the right amount considering baggage space. Europeans tend to also dress very smart-casual which is a huge generalisation but if you do not want to stand out as a tourist, neutral colours and smart-casual are the way to go. It’s also very helpful to be comfortable in whatever you wear.

A tote bag has been a great addition to our packing list and we now won’t go anywhere without one; it’s super handy as a day bag and will barely take up any room in your backpack. We’d also highly recommend an under-the-clothes money belt as, unfortunately, pickpocketing is rife in big European cities.

Accessories

As luck would have it, we’ve already set out everything you need to purchase before travelling around Europe. Make sure to check out our Ultimate Amazon Shopping List ; Top Gadgets you NEED for Travelling ; and 21 Must-Have Apps for Travelling !! 

In addition, as your two months in Europe will be pretty hectic, we wouldn’t recommend bringing a laptop. Whilst technology will go a long way to helping you relax after a long day of exploring, most of this can be enjoyed through your phone.

However, if you’re planning a worldwide tour or wishing to work abroad afterwards then you should definitely consider taking your laptop. You can change your mind and have your laptop shipped out to you but this is obviously expensive. 

How to get around Europe

Flying is a very viable option for exploring Europe. Flights between European countries do tend to be more affordable than in other locations in the world but it’s still quite more expensive than other options. If you are planning on flying around Europe, be sure to only take hand luggage as putting your luggage in the hold can often double the price of your ticket!

We’d recommend using Skyscanner or Expedia to get all the best deals.

We mostly got around using buses during our two months in Europe. Buses are usually the cheapest option but they do tend to take longer than trains. Therefore, if you aren’t tight on time, we’d definitely recommend looking into using buses on your travels.

We’ve found that Flixbus was a very reliable and popular company for getting around Europe. However, make sure to check out Omio who will provide you with all the best options!

Trains are probably the most common way for backpackers to get around Europe as many people travel via Interrail or Eurorail route.

One of the reasons why is that they’re affordable, quicker and tend to take you directly to the centre of the city you wish to visit. They’re also very affordable

Check out these interrail tips for first-timers to decide if this is the best option for you!

Renting a car

While renting a car is a less popular option for getting around Europe, if you have a larger budget, it can be a great way to explore the region. Pretty much the whole of Europe is driveable and there are some stunning road trips through the countryside.

As you can imagine, renting a car has numerous benefits; you’ll get to experience each country at your own pace and not rely on the (sometimes) inferior local transport to get around.

How much would Two Months in Europe cost? 

We’ll be completely honest here, Europe was our first destination and we hadn’t had a holiday for over two years so it is safe to say that we weren’t frugal with our money at the beginning; as shown by the amount of sangria and olives we consumed. As a result, we spent nearly £10k between us in two and a half months.

However, if you’re eating cheaply and staying in hostels, you could easily spend two months in Europe for less than £4k (per person). That being said, make sure you still enjoy yourself and don’t be weighed down by the cost of everything; money can be earnt back but opportunities can’t.

Where to start? 

As we’re from the UK, London was naturally our starting point as it has great air and land links with the rest of Europe. No matter where you’re from in Europe, it will be far easier starting from your nearest biggest city like Munich or Milan. Alternatively, if you’re coming from the United States or Canada, we’d recommend flying to a major city in Western Europe; any city that has good connections and is well-priced. This could include London, Amsterdam, Paris, Madrid or Barcelona. From these locations, you can follow this recommended route or do it backwards. 

Do bear in mind that your route will also depend on your plans after your two months in Europe I.e. which airport is the best/cheapest to fly out from to go home or my next destination. 

However, for our two months in Europe itinerary, we’d recommend starting off in London due to Heathrow’s great connections worldwide. 

Starting Point: London, England

Our two months in Europe itinerary starts in London. London is one of the best tourist destinations in the world with vast amounts to do and see in each part of the city. Frustratingly, however, London is quite expensive for backpackers so whilst you could easily spend a week here, it will blow a massive hole in your budget that isn’t really worth it. Moreover, people spend years living in London and they’ll still not have seen everything London has to offer; it’s just that big of a place. As a result, we’d recommend spending three or four nights here and focusing on the bits you REALLY want to see. 

If you’re a foodie, then London is the absolute place to be. We love the fact there are so many independent cafes and restaurants offering quality food from a variety of different cuisines. Moreover, getting around London is incredibly easy; the London Underground or Tube is arguably the best in the world when taking into account cost and coverage.

Even though we like to think we know our stuff about London, we found these London Travel Plans guide super informative and really handy. It gives you tonnes of tips on how to get around and where to visit so its definitely a must-read if you’re planning to visit.

How long to stay: 3-4 nights 

Getting around: Tube or walking 

Currency: GBP, £

Where to stay: Generator London

Must Do’s: Camden Market, London Eye, Big Ben, London Walking Tour

Average cost per day: £60-£80 

Stop 2: Madrid, Spain

How to get there? 

Travelling from London to Madrid is incredibly easy; flights operate from London Heathrow and Gatwick airports multiple times a day and normally fly into Madrid’s Adolfo Suárez airport. Flights start at around €50 and many deals include checked-in baggage which makes them very affordable! 

Madrid is a city that many backpackers miss out on but it was one of our favourite stops throughout the whole of Europe. In comparison to Barcelona, we found Madrid a lot less touristy and enjoyed the fact that you could get to all the attractions on foot. 

We also particularly enjoyed and embraced the Spanish culture of eating tapas as the sun sets every evening. Whilst eating later in the day (no earlier than 9pm) took some getting used to, we fell in love with sangria and olives in Madrid; you absolutely must try! 

How to get there: Fly from London €50

How long to stay: 3-4 nights

Getting around: Walking or Metro 

Currency: Euro, €

Where to stay: The Hat Hostel

Must do’s: Museum des Illusions , Parque de El Retiro, Plaza Mayor, Mercados (Food Markets)

Average cost per day:  €50-€70

Why don’t you check out our Madrid Travel Guide for more information about visiting Madrid?

Stop 3: Barcelona, Spain

As you can imagine, Spain’s two biggest and most populous cities are very well connected. You can choose to travel by plane, bus or train; however, we’d recommend taking the latter as it’s affordable and can provide better comfort than the other two options. 

Whilst we met tons of backpackers in Barcelona , it is a VERY popular holiday destination as it is home to a lot of Europe’s most iconic landmarks , so if you want to put yourself in a position to meet other people then definitely make sure to stay in a busy hostel.

The metro is by far the best way to get around given the frequency of stations and how big Barcelona is; trust me, it can take some time on foot. This city has so much to offer we would recommend staying for at least 4 days in Barcelona .

How to get there: Train from Madrid €30 

How long to stay: 5 nights

Getting around: Metro 

Where to stay: Yeah! Hostel €20

Must do’s: Sagrada Familia , Park Guell , Free walking tour, Beach day 

Average cost per day:  €50-€85

Thinking about visiting? Make sure to check out our Barcelona Travel Guide for more information! 

Stop 4: Nice, France

Travelling to Nice from Barcelona is only really accessible by bus or flying, given that there are no direct train links. As the journey takes 9.5 hours, you can either choose to write off one day or take a night bus.

The City 

We’ll be honest, we actually visited Marseille but didn’t find it backpacker-friendly at all. Having made the mistake for you, we’d definitely recommend visiting Nice instead and this recommendation is based on our own research. Nice is a beautiful city located on the French Riviera which is definitely worth stopping off at.

There are far more activities to do in Nice and we’ve heard the food is also particularly amazing , whilst the metro makes every part of the city accessible. Just be aware, as with any southern French city, the prices of anything will be quite expensive. 

How to get there: Night Bus from Barcelona €25

How long to stay: 2 nights 

Where to stay: Villa Saint Exupery Beach €18

Must do’s:  Promenade des Anglais, Cours Saleya Market, Beaches

Average cost per day:  €70-€80

Stop 5: Genoa, Italy

How to get there?

Given the locations of both Nice and Genoa, on the Ligurian Sea, it is incredibly easy (and surprisingly affordable) to travel between the two. We’d recommend travelling by bus as it is only €8 per person. 

We found Genoa to be a great introduction to Italy and was a lovely place to visit. Whilst Genoa is dominated by its port, the city has ample things to do. We particularly enjoyed the views over the city from Spianata di Castelletto, you can easily enjoy two days exploring Genoa . In addition, it is a great location to visit the beautiful fishing village of Portofino where you can act like a celebrity enjoying the beautiful al fresco dining. 

How to get there: Bus from Nice €8 

How long to stay: 3 nights 

Getting around: Walking

Where to stay: Ostello Bello Genoa  €21

Must do’s: Spianata di Castelletto, Museo di Palazzo Reale , Day trip to Portofino 

Average cost per day:  €60-€65

Stop 6: Florence, Italy

Italy, and the major cities, in particular, are incredibly well connected so travelling by train or bus is very easy. This includes Florence so we opted to take the bus due to it being marginally cheaper than a train at €7pp; however, either method is feasible. 

Florence was easily one of our favourite destinations in the whole of Europe so if you’re going to Italy, you MUST visit! The city itself has an amazing atmosphere with beautiful streets and cafes on every corner to sit and people-watch. Its location means it’s a great spot to take some day trips from Florence , which is why we think that 3-4 days is the perfect amount of time to spend at this stop.

We unfortunately only spent 1 full day here so didn’t fully appreciate everything Florence had to offer; we wished we stayed for two or even three more days. It is also a very walkable city so there is no need to spend any money on other modes of transport; unless you want to try your hand at an e-scooter. 

How to get there: Bus from Genoa €6

Where to stay: PLUS Florence €25

Must do’s:  Piazzale Michelangelo Viewpoint , Magnum Factory, Mercato Centrale, Michelangelo’s David

Average cost per day:  €60-€80

Stop 7: Rome, Italy

Again, as Rome is the country’s capital it made getting to and from incredibly easy. Due to the price and convenience, we decided to take a direct train from Florence which was £24 each. 

Whilst Rome was admittedly not our favourite destination, mainly due to its poor inner-city transport links, it is obviously a must-visit. However, it is still a city you need to tick off your list as the Colosseum is something you have to see! We spent 3 days here but you could easily see most of the main highlights of Rome in 1 day !

We particularly enjoyed staying at Yellow Square Hostel as it was a great chance to meet like-minded people in the Yellow Square bar opposite. They have happy hour each night and those staying at the hostel get an even further discount.

How to get there: Train from Florence for €16

Getting around: Walking and metro 

Where to stay: Yellow Square Rome  €35

Must do’s: Colosseum , Trevi Fountain, Vatican City  

Average cost per day:  €75-€90

Stop 8: Venice, Italy

For logistical and budgetary reasons, we stayed on the mainland at Anda Hostel and we were very glad we did so; it is cheap and easy to take the train onto the island every day. In addition, it is right next to the train and bus station which means you can choose either method of getting here from Rome. 

Venice is absolutely as nice as advertised and the canals are stunningly beautiful. Whilst Venice has so much to see and do , it is most enjoyable just getting lost in the maze of walkways; some you won’t even think lead to anywhere. Doing this will allow you to find out the true Venice and some great handmade local food.

We’d also highly recommend taking a day to visit the neighbouring islands of Murano and Burano which are also part of the Venetian region; the latter’s brightly coloured houses are beautiful. 

How to get there: Train From Rome €44

How long to stay: 3 nights

Getting around: Walking and taxi boats 

Where to stay: Anda Venice €32

Must do’s: Murano & Burano day trip, St Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace , St Mark’s Square, Gondola Ride

Average cost per day:  €80-€100

Stop 9: Zagreb, Croatia

Venice’s bus and train station are right next to each other so it’s all about what method of transport you’d prefer. We ended up taking the bus from Venice, which cost £21 pp, as we didn’t mind the slightly longer journey for the cheaper price. 

Zagreb was another one of our favourite cities and the whole place really surprised us. We absolutely loved the atmosphere, where it was slightly cold (puffer jacket weather) but every still sat outside drinking. In addition, everything was super walkable and the food was amazing. It also has a great range of activities to do; if you like views or walks then the viewpoint and Art Park are beautiful whilst Ivana Tkalcica is a street full of bars and great eateries. Hopefully, you’ll agree that Zagreb is definitely worth a visit ! Ideally, you would want to spend a few days here but you can easily spend just one day in Zagreb .

How to get there: Bus from Venice €20

Currency: Croatian kuna, HRK

Where to stay: Chillout Hostel  €23

Must do’s: Museum of Broken Relationships , Viewpoint, Art Park

Average cost per day:  €55-€60

Stop 10: Vienna, Austria 

Again, as all of Europe’s main cities are really well connected, you can either choose the bus or train depending on where you’re staying. Vienna’s International Busterminal (VIB) is a huge train station with well-connected metro links all over the city. We ended up getting a bus to Vienna from Zagreb because it was the cheapest but the train is just as easy. 

Admittedly, Vienna wasn’t our favourite city as the weather wasn’t our friend and it was quite expensive. As a result, we wouldn’t recommend staying that long here. Having said that, we particularly enjoyed the Royal Palace and the Hop-on, Hop-off bus which allowed us to see most of the city. The food was also particularly amazing so if you do visit, there is an extensive list you must try!!  

If like us you make a stop in Vienna over the festive period, be sure to check out some of the city’s beautiful Christmas markets !

How to get there: Bus from Zagreb €17

How long to stay: 2-3 nights

Getting around: Walking and Metro

Where to stay: Wombats Hostel €26

Must do’s: Palace, Walking tour , Prater Wien, Big Bus tour

Stop 11: Budapest, Hungary

You can either choose the bus or train from Vienna as it’s simple, easy and direct. We ended up commuting by bus but had real trouble finding a taxi once we got to the Nepliget Train Station as there was no taxi rank nearby and we didn’t have the Bolt app downloaded. As such, we’d recommend getting a train to Budapest as it’ll be easy to get into the city centre. 

What a place. By far our favourite place in the whole of Europe. It has everything one could want from a holiday destination, apart from a beach. You can visit the beautiful Buda Castle that overlooks the city and the relaxing Széchenyi Thermal Baths.

However, by far the most enjoyable aspect of Budapest was that it is one of the best party destinations in Europe which is epitomised by the Szimpla Kert or Ruin Bars, as they’re commonly referred to. Here you can relax, drink and chat into the early hours whilst being surrounded by a unique setting; it has a great atmosphere and is our favourite place to visit in Budapest. 

To top it off, the city is easily walkable and a fairly cheap city to visit and explore. Ultimately, Budapest has it all and if you’re going to visit in place on the list, it has to be here. 

How to get there: Train from Vienna €15

How long to stay: 5 nights 

Getting around: Walking and Tram

Currency: Hungarian Forint, HUF

Where to stay: Hostel One €19 or The Hive €12

Must do’s: Buda Castle , Fisherman’s Bastion, Ruins Bars, Széchenyi Thermal Baths , Boat Party

Average cost per day:  €25-€40

Stop 12: Krakow, Poland

We ended up taking the bus as it was again cheaper and we couldn’t find a direct train to Krakow from Budapest at the time. Coming from Budapest also gives you the top room to fly; whilst more expensive it’s ideal for those who wish to keep their travelling time down. 

Krakow is arguably the best city in the whole of Europe for backpackers. This is because it has great nightlife, it’s very cheap to socialise and there is a great deal of sightseeing to do (Old Town in particular). The only more expensive part we found was the accommodation; however, we found Greg & Tom’s Beer hostel which is just a five-minute walk to Old Town and was perfect. Your stay includes free breakfast and dinner and it was surprisingly really good although you must get out and try local food because it’s amazing also! 

How to get there: Fly from Budapest or Bus €28

How long to stay: 4 nights 

Currency: złoty, zł

Where to stay: Greg and Toms Hostel €18

Must do’s:  Old Town Square, Jewish District, Bar crawl, Auschwitz and Birkenau , Free walking tour

Stop 13: Prague, Czech Republic

We ended up getting the train to Prague as it then allowed us to get the metro to our accommodation. The transport system in Prague was really really good; you had the choice of the metro but we loved walking and taking the trams. 

Another one of our favourite cities as it had such a good atmosphere and the whole city was beautiful! To make it even better, we visited in autumn so the air was crisp but not too cold. As a result, we thoroughly enjoyed sitting in the Old Town Square with a beer, gluhwein or hot chocolate to watch the world go by. The city is also home to some incredible restaurants and bars, so you won’t struggle to fill your evenings here!

How to get there: Train from Krakow €9

How long to stay: 4 nights

Currency: Czech koruna or crown, CZK

Where to stay: Hostel One Old Town €19

Must-do’s: Lennon Wall, Prague Castle , Charles Bridge, Old Town Square, Pub crawl, Walking tour

Average cost per day:  €30-€50

Stop 14: Berlin, Germany

Germany has arguably the best train network in the whole of Europe. There are three huge train stations the size of Waterloo, all within a couple of miles of each other. As the city is so vast, you’ll be able to hop onto the metro or any tram from a variety of locations as walking can be time-consuming. 

Being the capital of Germany and with its history, Berlin is a must-visit for anyone backpacking Europe. We loved visiting everything Berlin has to offer and particularly enjoyed (as much as you can) the Topography of Terror and sampling some Currywurst. As Berlin is a recent modern city (i.e. rebuilt after the war), everything is quite spread out which means a massive reliance on its impressive transport system. As such, it costs time and money to get to different parts of the city BUT Berlin is still well worth a visit, especially for its infamous nightlife! 

How to get there: Train from Prague €20

Where to stay: St Christopher’s Alexanderplatz €17

Must do’s: Berlin Wall , Topography of Terror , Brandenburg Gate,  Walking tour

Average cost per day:  €45-€60

Stop 15: Hamburg, Germany

We chose to take the bus from Berlin (£10pp) as the pickup and drop off location was right outside our accommodation and it was cheaper. But again, the train is equally as viable and arguably comfier. 

Whilst there isn’t as much to do compared to Berlin, we found it to be a great contrast and loved the atmosphere. The food in Germany is absolutely incredible and we definitely managed to eat our body weight in currywurst during our visit! We were unlucky during our stay as it pretty much rained the whole time we were there. Having said that we still had a great time, so if you’ve got a spare few days then definitely don’t skip out on Hamburg as it is very underrated!  

How to get there: Bus from Berlin €7

Getting around: Walking 

Where to stay: Generator Hamburg €28

Must do’s: Speicherstadt, Harbour cruise , Miniatur Wunderland, Treasure hunt

Stop 16: Copenhagen, Denmark

Surprisingly, getting a bus from Hamburg to Copenhagen is much cheaper and quicker than getting a train. In addition, your route will likely take you across the Femer Baelt which is a beautiful ferry crossing. 

Whilst not necessarily your typical backpacking location, a trip to Copenhagen is definitely unique; in a good way! Admittedly whilst it is one of the most expensive cities on our European travels, it was also a lot of fun. If you don’t fancy becoming a true Dane and decide to cycle everywhere, the metro is also very good and worth getting a zone pass for your stay. There are so many things to do in Copenhagen , but some of our highlights were Tivoli Gardens and Copenhagen Zoo!

We only spent three days in Copenhagen, but if you do want to stay a bit longer there are some amazing day trips that are worth checking out!

How to get there: Bus from Hamburg €20

Getting around: Walking, metro and bicycle 

Currency:  Euro, €

Where to stay: CityHub €89 or Copenhagen Downtown Hostel   €25

Must do’s: Proud Mary Pub, Copenhagen Zoo , Freetown, Bike tour , Tivoli Garden

Average cost per day:  €70-€120

Stop 17: Malmo, Sweden

Due to its close proximity, getting to Malmö from Copenhagen via train is incredibly easy and cheap. We met loads of people who live in Malmö but work in Copenhagen in order to save money on accommodation; Scandinavia really is that expensive! 

If you’re in Copenhagen, you’d be silly not to take a quick trip to Malmö for a day or two. As with a lot of Scandinavia, it rains a lot and it was no exception during our visit. Nonetheless, Malmö is utterly beautiful and a great city to walk around; we particularly enjoyed the cold, crisp air (when it wasn’t raining). 

How to get there: Train from Copenhagen €13

Currency: Swedish krona, SEK

Where to stay:  Hotel n Hostel Malmo City €35

Must do’s:  Technology and Maritime Museum , Turning Torso, Kungsparken, Cycle tour , Pildamnsparken.

Average cost per day:  €55-€70

Stop 18: Amsterdam, Netherlands

Surprisingly, getting to Amsterdam from Malmö is quite simple. You’ll firstly need to get to Copenhagen via train (which is very easy) before walking to the nearby bus station for a night bus to the Netherlands. This was our first night bus on our trip and we were incredibly surprised to find the bus was full to the brim so be prepared for very little sleep! 

Amsterdam ended up going into lockdown just before we were about to visit so we, unfortunately, didn’t get the chance to explore the beautiful city – we will one day! Nonetheless, it is obviously a hotbed for Europeans to visit for all the obvious reasons so why not try it for yourself? 

How to get there: Night bus from Copenhagen €37

How long to stay: 3 days in Amsterdam is the perfect amount of time to explore the city!

Where to stay: Flying Pig Downtown €30

Must do’s:  IJ-Hallen flea market, Anne Frank House , Heineken Experience , Van Gogh Museum

Average cost per day:  €65-€80

Stop 19: Brussels, Belgium 

With Brussels being the epicentre of European politics, it is incredibly easy to get to. Visiting from Amsterdam is no exception with both the bus (€10pp) and train (€20pp) going direct to Brussels.

Despite being warned by many people that there wasn’t much to do in Brussels , we surprisingly found the city really enjoyable. The Grand Place is a beautiful square, especially at night, and we were lucky enough to visit in December so we were able to explore all the festive Christmas markets the city offered.

If you fancy visiting more of Belgium, Brussels is a great location for day trips to Ghent , Antwerp and Bruges!

We also visited Pairi Daiza Zoo and this is easily the best zoo we’ve visited ever; the animals had so much space to roam which was great to see. 

How to get there: Bus from Amsterdam €10

Getting around: Walking and trains

Where to stay:  MEININGER Bruxelles City Center €32

Must-do’s: Pairi Daiza Zoo , Grand Palace, Atomium, Walking tour ,

Average cost per day:  €50-€90

We definitely recommend checking out Carolin’s Day Trip to Brussels Itinerary as it has everything you need to know about visiting Brussels.

Stop 21: Lille, France

Whilst taking the bus is an option, we found Brussels’ great transport links meant we could get a direct train to Lille; simple, easy and just €9pp.

Lille is definitely one of northern France’s hidden gems and whilst we only really stayed here to kill a few days before Paris, we were very glad we did. The city is really walkable and the canal de la Moyenne-Deul is beautiful to walk around. We also loved the fact that the main square was always bustling and there was so much to see. Being the foodies we are, we loved the sweet and savoury crepes at Crêperie Beaurepaire; truly amazing! 

How to get there: Bus from Brussels €4 or train €9.

Where to stay:  CALM Appartments and Hostel €24

Must do’s:  Grand Place, Old Lille, Parc Zoologique, Sightseeing tour .

Final Destination: Paris, France 

In a similar fashion to the rest of Europe, transport links to Paris are very good. As such, you can choose to take the train or bus from Lille and arrive within a good time. 

Due to a series of unfortunate events, we had to skip out on sightseeing during our trip to Paris, but luckily we have been before. Paris is one of the most famous cities in Europe, home to some of the continent’s most iconic landmarks and best museums .

Brimming with history, art, food and fashion, Paris is on everyone’s bucket list and you can easily spend 3 to 4 days in Paris . However, it is not the most backpacker-friendly location budget-wise so be sure to pick your activities wisely and try to do a free walking tour to see a lot of the sights.

How to get there: Bus from Lille €12

Where to stay: Jo&Joe Paris  €40

Must do’s:  Eiffel Tower , Louvre Museum, Montparnasse Tower, Walking tour

Average cost per day:  €65-€95

Where next? 

Paris is a great final destination because of its great links with the rest of the world. You have the ability to fly out of Paris’ Charles de Gaulle airport which has great connections with Africa, North America and Asia. Alternatively, you can get the Eurostar train back to London, as Heathrow’s international links are arguably a little better, or to finish your journey; what’s next is completely up to you!!! 

Ultimately, your trip around Europe totally depends on where you want to visit and when. However, in order to keep costs to a minimum, it would be wise to travel as shorter distances as possible between cities. In addition, you could easily adapt this itinerary to include places like Munich, Split or Dubrovnik , or even cut out Scandinavia if your budget doesn’t stretch that far.

If you are heading to Europe during the festive season, do check out our places in Europe to spend New Year’s Eve post!

There you have it; our Two Months Backpacking Europe, outlining all the best places to visit; how much it costs and where to stay. No matter wherever you visit, you’re going to absolutely love Europe as there are so many places to visit and so many things to see and do. You’re also bound to meet tonnes of people that you’ll continue to be friends with; that, for us, is the best part about travelling.

Travelled to Europe before? Let us know any of your top tips in the comments!

Check out some of our other Europe content!

• The Ultimate Madrid Bucket List – 26 Things to do in Madrid 

25 Unmissable Experiences To Add To Your Italy Bucket List! 

• 28 Unmissable Experiences to add to your Spain Bucket List

Is Zagreb Worth Visiting? 

• Unusual Museums in Europe: A Journey Through the Bizarre and the Curious

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42 comments.

What a great itinerary! I would love to spend 2 months wandering around in Europe!

Thank you so much Marianne, so glad you liked our post!

Loved this article. I agree 100% on staying in London 4 days. London is such a big city that it would be impossible to see everything during one vacation! I have been living in London since 2013 and I still haven’t seen everything!

So pleased you loved this article Valentina. We love London as well and totally understand not seeing everything!

Spending two months traveling around Europe is such a dream! I’ve been to most of these cities, but not all of them yet. This is great inspo for planning a trip around Europe and exploring a bunch of amazing places.

It really was an amazing experience; we’d recommend it to anyone! Thank you for your kind words Kate.

Sooooo, this is basically my DREAM. I would love to spend 2 months (or even more, why limit myself you know?!) traveling around Europe. Totally agree with the luggage recommendation – I feel I would get quite tired of wheeling around a larger suitcase quite quickly. Better to stick to a backpack.

Totally agree Alaina!! Trust me, it really is tiring, especially on cobbled streets; backpacks are the way forward!

My husband and I spent almost a month in Europe, and we had such a great time! My only regret was not staying longer! Haha. This is such a great itinerary. Croatia and Germany are two spots on your itinerary that really caught my eye because I’m dying to visit there! Thanks for sharing.

So glad you enjoyed your trip Brittany! You really should visit; we’re gutted we missed out on Split and other sunny places in Croatia.

How I wish I could go to Europe right now for 2 months! You have hit a lot of places I have been, and you are absolutely right – they MUST be on this list. You also had some I haven’t been to. Thanks for getting them on my radar for a future trip! Excellent details!

So glad you agree Erin! Our pleasure; don’t hesitate to get in contact if you have any questions!

Sounds like you had a blast and so many amazing places! So much information as well for planning a trip!

It was such an amazing time thanks Emma, so glad we visited. Thank you.

What a fabulous breakdown of your Europe itinerary. There was so much helpful information! I’m envious of your two month adventure. It looks and sounds like amazing experiences.

It really was an amazing experience Michele; so glad the information was helpful!

Two months in Europe? Yes, please! Love this itinerary. I’veen to 10 of these lovely cities…and actually spending three weeks in England in September. So will also check out your London posts.

You’ll absolutely love London; if you want any further tips then don’t hesitate to get in contact!

We love this itinerary! It’s packed with things to do but not overloaded so you feel burnt out by the middle of the trip.

So pleased you liked our guide, thank you for your kind words.

I’d love to spend two months in Europe! This looks like a great pick of cities. Thanks for the tips about which ones might be more expensive and that you would probably spend less time in if you’re wanting to be more budget friendly.

It was so worth it Anushka and totally agree! Our pleasure, so glad we’ve be able to help.

We are happy that as Canadians we don’t need a visa for a 2 month visit. But we still need to watch the 90 day Schengen rules. On our current long trip to Europe we did indeed have to pack for a wide range of weather. And still probably packed too much! You sure have some great stops on your itinerary. I hope you have a great trip.

We were in exactly the same boat Linda.. too much stuff and too many climates! Thank you, we hope you do too!

Wow! You guys are loving the dream!! I loved all of these places 😁

Ahah we’re very lucky! So glad you enjoyed them Belle!

This is a great itinerary! I hope I get to travel it one day!

Thank you Yvonne; you definitely should!

Wow, I’m totally envious. I would love to spend two months in Europe! It’s on the horizon though, Normally I avoid large cities but I can see how transport between the bigger cities in Europe would be a cinch!

Europe definitely lived up to expectations! Totally agree Angie.

This is a great itinerary very inspiring! Although I know very well London, France and Italy I’ve never been in Sweeden and I’d love to visit Hamburg. They look so charming! Thank you for sharing this!

So pleased you enjoyed our guide Anita! Thank you for your kind words; you should definitely visit Sweden if you get the chance!

I probably wouldn’t want to backpack through Europe, but spending two months in all of these destinations would be pretty awesome.

It was honestly amazing; so glad we did it and it’s definitely worth it!

Love this itinerary! It’s awesome you saw so much in just 2 months. I’m saving for a future trip!

You’re very kind Nikki, thank you. Looking back it was definitely crammed a lot of places in a couple of months but we loved it!

This is exactly my dream Europe trip with so many beautiful destinations to visit and useful tips to make it a seamless journey. Definitely saving this post now!

Thank you so much Fiona Mai. We’re so pleased you enjoyed our post!

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How much more to add do you think on all the prices you have given on every place (buses, trains, fly, accomodation etc). I have plan to go to Europe for 2 monts in October 2023. With the weather in October and November, is it good idea that we start from the nothern part first? As we are coming from Australia. Thanks!

Hi Nia, thanks so much for getting in touch. We’ve dropped you an email, would love to help you out!

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What Summer Travel to Europe Will Look Like This Year

By Arati Menon

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

With additional reporting by Sarah Allard

When travel journalist Jenn Rice decided to spend July and August in Italy and Croatia last year, she wasn’t expecting to be spending most of her time indoors. “It was very very hot, so I booked museum tickets during peak days or just lounged around in my room with a spritz and a book until the sun set.” In Dubrovnik she tried escaping to the sea for a cool dip, but everyone else had the same idea—resulting in sweaty, overcrowded beaches. “In Rome , gelato melted faster than the speed of light,” she says.

Come summer, major attractions like the Spanish Steps in Rome are thronged by international tourists and vacationing Europeans.

Rome and Dubrovnik weren’t the only European destinations overcome with heat. To travel in Europe in the summer of 2023 was to experience first-hand a single season of contrasting extremes. Temperatures swung from hot and dry to cold and wet, and heatwaves broke out across several of the most heavily touristed destinations, with temperatures reaching upwards of 100°F. In Northern Greece, wildfires broke out —the worst experienced there in 20 years —destroying homes, forests, and vineyards.

Yet in the midst of it all, the continent also saw record-breaking tourist numbers —the highest since pre-pandemic levels—even as hotel prices swelled and airfares hit peaks. From scenic escapes like Bellagio in Como and Taormina in Sicily (where the White Lotus effect was on full display) to bucket-list cities like Paris and Madrid , much of touristed Europe was completely overwhelmed.

“We had people calling us from Athens and Rome asking us to get them out [to somewhere cooler in Europe], because it was too hot and too crowded,” recalls Jan Sortland , founder of Scandinavia specialists Norwegian Adventures.

International tourists weren’t the only ones thronging these spots. According to the European Travel Commission , most Europeans took their vacations before the peak month of August, with Italy and France being their top destinations. This resulted in packed crowds at all the major attractions. For John Canning, an LA-based executive who traveled to Paris in July, the crowds were eye-opening. “We didn’t anticipate that everything we would want to see was sold out. We only got Musée d’Orsay tickets through our concierge at a substantial premium and could not get into the Louvre full stop,” he says.

Rice says the summer taught her to plan her travel differently this year—and beyond: “I’m going to try and do coastal Italy early in May, and if I decide to travel in Europe this summer it will be either Asturias in Northern Spain or the Julian Alps in Slovenia to keep cool."

She’s not alone—according to the travel specialists we spoke with, there’s an increased interest in lesser-known destinations offering a more laid back (and cooler) holiday. “Our guests are asking after places where they can be outdoors, yet have access to wine & foodie experiences and culture. Slovenia is a great example of where you can have all that without being overwhelmed with the heat; the Dolomites in Italy is another,” says Rachael Mendizabal, Europe travel specialist at Scott Dunn . Richard Hyde, COO at Small Luxury Hotels of the World , is seeing similar trends across their European portfolio: “Guests seem to be gravitating towards alternative destinations—Milos instead of Mykonos and Slovenia instead of Spain.”

Norway is a popular destination this summer, offering cooler weather and a myriad ways to be active outside, exploring the islands and fjords.

A big part of that shift will play into Sortland’s area of expertise: Northern Europe. With the Med getting too hot to handle, experts predict that tourism will shift northwards. “We’re seeing a lot of interest in Copenhagen and Stockholm for the cultural experience, and then onward to Norway for the nature. Currently, the fjords are still a favorite but Norway is a large country and there’s so much more to see—the Helgeland coast for example with its beautiful coastline and mountainous islands,” he says. The draw is a more moderate temperature and unique outdoor experiences. “ Iceland is a big favorite right now with the Northern lights being the most active this year from September through March,” says Mendizabal.

Hannah Towey

Maya Silver

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In turn, for many, the more standard city breaks will fall later in the year. “Athens and Rome will always be desirable destinations, but we’ve seen an uptick in many people preferring to go there in May and October to swerve crowds,” says Carolyn Addison, head of product at Black Tomato , noting the weather in fall has been stable lately and enticing to travelers not tied to school holidays.

With this increased flexibility, shoulder season will become tricker to define, according to Mendizabal. Thanks to hotels extending their season as demand shifts to almost year-round and the high-season pricing window getting longer, the days of “scooping a deal in September are likely over.” At Jumeirah Palace in Capri , the season now runs from March to the end of December. “Thanks to the good weather, guests are staying longer than in the past,” says Ermanno Zanini, regional vice president at Jumeirah Group, Southern Europe and United Kingdom.

Castello di Vicarello in Tuscany 's Maremma countryside has traditionally stayed open in March and November. “We're pushing the low season as much as possible because we truly believe it is a wonderful time to discover Tuscany. There is so much for guests to enjoy from hiking to mountain biking, truffle hunting, and wine tastings,” says owner Neri Baccheschi Berti.

Crucially, traveling in the shoulder and off seasons isn't just about avoiding the crowds; it’s knowing that seasonal destinations are multi-dimensional, with year-round appeal. “One of my favorite things to do in cooler weather is to hike to the peak of Mount Solaro, with its beautiful views of the town of Capri and the bay of Marina Piccola with the Faraglioni, as well as Anacapri. You also see plenty of wintering birds on the island,” says Zanini.

Zanini adds that they are in talks with the island's municipality to consider what it would take to stay open in February and March, traditionally strictly closed off. “It's not as straightforward as you think. There’s a lot of infrastructure that needs to be geared towards the low season: restaurants need to stay open, as do shops, and guides need to be available; it can’t just be the hotel,” he adds.

However, with staying open longer, there’s a real opportunity to engage local communities year-round, not to mention stabilize the hiring pool—and improve work culture. “We’ve already seen the positive impact of a longer season for our partners on the ground and locals in the hospitality and tourism sector,” says Addison, who adds that shifts in travel seasons are far from a fleeting trend. “This pattern for more year-round travel will continue to pick up pace in 2025—and beyond," she says.

Travel specialists are quick to point out that even with some of this rebalancing, summer this year and next will continue to see high demand for travel to—and within—Europe. According to Hayley Berg, chief economist at Hopper, while airfare remains higher than at this time in 2019, 40% of all searches for international trips this summer are to Europe, in line with last year and slightly higher than in 2019.

“Sure, we think that traveler numbers on the Côte d'Azur will smooth out through the year, but summer will certainly remain the festive season—only it will be longer,” says Lucie Weill, owner of wellness retreat Lily of the Valley near St. Tropez , which sees its faire share of packed streets and crowded beaches come summer. Weill adds that the hotel has seen success in extending its season.

For travel specialist Cari Gray of Gray & Co . late requests and a lack of flexibility could mean getting turned away because of a lack of availability. “Whether it’s a visit to the Vatican or dogsledding in Alaska , access is going to be very difficult. And there are only that many high-end lodges in Lapland ,” she says. Addison offers the example of Lake Como , where the best properties can often get booked up a year or two in advance during the busiest summer months. “Knowing that the top hotels and guides are getting booked up and that weather disruptions are increasingly unpredictable, clients who want to commit to the most popular summer hotspots in Europe, like the Greek islands and Sardinia are securing their bookings a year out.”

The Balearic island of Menorca is a charming escape with its rocky coves, white-sand beaches, and green rolling hills.

Ultimately, it’s not about giving up on all the places you love: just about pivoting, even if within the same country. “Why not Menorca instead of Mallorca, with its explosion of fantastic hotels and its great beach front, or Epirus in Northern Greece on the Albanian border with its Stone villages, old-growth forests, and truffle hunts instead of the islands," says Gray.

"In Italy we’re always pushing to discover new areas, even in regions that we’ve been exploring for decades like Tuscany and Umbria because new hotels are opening up regularly,” says Courtney Mundy , a travel specialist at experiential travel experts Butterfield & Robinson.

And, a word of caution for the rising favorites: “Smaller destinations in Iceland & Norway will really need to consider how to manage the higher number of visitors than ever before,” says Addison. “Parts of Iceland are overtouristed,” agrees Sortland, “so, it’s not unreasonable to think that smaller communities in Norway could eventually be at risk, too.” Whether it's through new tourist tax regimens or limits on cruise ship day-trippers to reduce crowding, a shifting tide will need more alert local governments—and as we’re swapping beaches for the mountains or Rome for Stockholm, more responsible travel habits that leave fewer traces behind.

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Did Golden Bachelor’s Gerry Turner and Theresa Nist Ever Go on Their Italian Honeymoon?

Did The Golden Bachelor couple Gerry Turner and Theresa Nist ever make it on their honeymoon to Italy? It seems three months of marriage wasn’t enough time to fit in a trip to Europe.

It was reported that the couple planned to take the trip this upcoming May, but so it’s safe to speculate that the honeymoon was called off, along with the marriage.

During the Golden Bachelor wedding special on January 4, the couple was given a trip to their desired honeymoon destination, Italy, by ABC.

An Instagram post shared by Theresa, 70, later that same month was the last that Bachelor Nation heard about the vacation.

Related: Golden Bachelor Gerry Turner and Theresa Nist's Relationship Timeline

“Having so much fun planning and dreaming about our honeymoon in May to Italy … flying into Rome, spending a few days in Tuscany and then heading down to Sorrento and the Amalfi coast,” she captioned the January 28 post . “I’ve been to Italy twice, once when I was 18, and again to visit my daughter when she studied abroad there. I can’t wait to experience it with Gerry!”

Gerry, 72, proposed to Theresa during the Golden Bachelor season finale in November 2023. They tied the knot in a live TV special earlier this year. After only three months as a married couple, the duo announced that they were getting a divorce .

“Theresa and I have had a number of heart-to-heart conversations and we’ve looked closely at our situation — our living situation — and we’ve kind of come to the conclusion mutually that it’s time for us to dissolve our marriage,” Gerry said during a Good Morning America appearance on Friday, April 12. “The things that strike me the most in our conversations it’s been how dedicated both of us are to our families.”

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Related: Celebrity Splits of 2024: Stars Who Have Called It Quits This Year

Because of the close-knit relationship they both have to their respective families , Gerry went on to say that “it’s best for the happiness of each of us to live apart.” (Gerry shares two daughters with late wife, Toni . Theresa also has two kids — a son and daughter — with her late husband, Billy .

Despite the breakup, there’s no love lost between Gerry and Theresa.

“I still love this person, there’s no doubt in my mind,” he said. “I root for her every day.”

In this article

Gerry turner, theresa nist, more stories.

When is Eid al-Fitr 2024 and how is it celebrated?

The three-day festival celebrates the completion of the fasting month of Ramadan by Muslims across the world.

As a new moon was not sighted on Monday evening after Maghrib prayers, Muslims in Saudi Arabia and neighbouring countries will fast one more day, completing 30 days of Ramadan. The first day of Eid will then be celebrated on Wednesday, April 10.

The first day of Eid al-Fitr is determined by the sighting of the crescent moon marking the start of the month of Shawwal, the 10th month of the Islamic (Hijri) calendar.

Keep reading

A ramadan no palestinian will ever forget, the cost of a ramadan iftar meal around the world, ramadan 2024: where do your dates come from, in washington, dc: celebrating ramadan, protesting israel’s siege of gaza.

Lunar months last between 29 and 30 days so Muslims usually have to wait until the night before Eid to verify its date.

Other countries follow independent sightings.

When the sighting has been verified, Eid is declared on television, radio stations and at mosques.

How do Muslims celebrate Eid?

Traditionally, Eid is celebrated for three days as an official holiday in Muslim-majority countries. However, the number of holiday days varies by country.

Muslims begin Eid day celebrations by partaking in a prayer service that takes place shortly after dawn, followed by a short sermon.

On their way to the prayer, which is traditionally held in an open area, Muslims recite takbeerat, praising God by saying “Allahu Akbar”, meaning “God is great”.

It is customary to eat something sweet before the prayer, such as date -filled biscuits known as maamoul in the Middle East. This particular festival is known as the “sweet” Eid – and the distribution of sweets is common across the Muslim world.

Muslims usually spend the day visiting relatives and neighbours and accepting sweets as they move around from house to house.

Each country has traditional desserts and sweets that are prepared before Eid or on the morning of the first day.

Children, dressed in new clothes, are offered gifts and money to celebrate the joyous occasion.

Girls and women in many countries decorate their hands with henna. The celebration for Eid begins the night before as women gather in neighbourhoods and large family gatherings for the application of henna.

In some countries, families visit graveyards to offer their respects to departed family members right after the morning prayers.

It is common for Muslim-majority countries to decorate their cities with lights and hold festivities to commemorate the end of the fasting month.

Eid amid the onslaught in Gaza

For some 2.3 million Palestinians in Gaza this Eid, this will be the first Muslim religious holiday after more than 33,000 people have been killed in Israeli attacks. With little food aid, and very limited water, Gaza’s Eid al-Fitr will be mired in destruction amid the continuing attacks.

What are common Eid greetings?

The most popular greeting is “Eid Mubarak” (Blessed Eid) or “Eid sa’id” (Happy Eid). Eid greetings also vary depending on the country and language.

The video below shows how people say Eid Mubarak in different languages around the world.

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The U.S. issues new travel guidelines, warning that Iran will avenge the killings of senior commanders.

The State Department has barred its employees from traveling to large parts of Israel. Iran has repeatedly vowed to strike back over the deadly bombing this month of an Iranian Embassy complex in Syria.

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By Liam Stack and Eric Schmitt

• April 12, 2024

Several countries including the United States have issued new travel guidelines for Israel and the surrounding region, as the Israeli military said its forces were “highly alert” for a possible Iranian strike in retaliation for the killings of several commanders.

Iran has repeatedly vowed to strike back at Israel over the bombing of an Iranian Embassy complex in Damascus, Syria, this month that killed three generals and four other military officers. An American official said on Friday that Washington expects an attack by Iran against Israel that would be bigger than recent attacks in the long shadow war between the two countries, but not so big that it would draw the United States into war. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the matter.

The U.S. State Department on Thursday barred its employees from traveling to large parts of Israel, the first time the U.S. government had restricted the movement of its employees in this way since the war in Gaza began more than six months ago.

On Thursday, Britain told its citizens that they “should consider leaving” Israel and the Palestinian territories “if it is safe to do so.” On Friday, India told its citizens “not to travel to Iran or Israel till further notice,” while France advised people not to travel to Israel, Iran or Lebanon and evacuated the families of French diplomats from Iran.

Asked about the U.S. travel warning , Matthew Miller, the State Department spokesman, said at a news briefing Thursday: “We have seen Iran making public threats against Israel in the past few days.” He declined to provide details about any specific information that prompted the warning.

The new guidelines bar U.S. government employees and their families from traveling to locations outside the Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and Beersheba metropolitan areas “out of an abundance of caution” until further notice. The State Department said U.S. personnel could move among those areas for personal travel.

The top American military commander for the Middle East, Gen. Michael E. Kurilla, traveled to Israel to coordinate a response to possible Iranian retaliation, U.S. officials said.

“Our enemies think that they will divide Israel and the United States,” the Israeli defense minister, Yoav Gallant, said in a statement on Friday after meeting with General Kurilla. “They are connecting us and are strengthening the relationship between us.”

If Iran attacks, he added, “we will know how to respond.”

On Thursday, the Israeli military’s chief spokesman, Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, said that the armed forces were “highly alert and prepared” for any action Iran might take, even as the timing and scale of any response remained unclear. Analysts say that Tehran, which has long used a network of proxy forces to project power across the Middle East, wants to avoid igniting a full-fledged war that could drag in the United States and threaten the survival of Iran’s regime.

“For years, and even more so during the war, Iran has been financing, directing and arming its proxies — in Lebanon, Gaza, Syria, Iraq and Yemen — to attack the state of Israel,” he said. “An attack from Iranian territory would be clear evidence of Iran’s intentions to escalate the Middle East and stop hiding behind the proxies.”

Liam Stack is a Times reporter covering the Israel-Hamas war from Jerusalem. More about Liam Stack

Eric Schmitt is a national security correspondent for The Times, focusing on U.S. military affairs and counterterrorism issues overseas, topics he has reported on for more than three decades. More about Eric Schmitt

Our Coverage of the Israel-Hamas War

News and Analysis

The disappearance and death of an Israeli teenager, whose body was found in the West Bank , spurred deadly rioting by Israeli settlers in Palestinian villages, ratcheting up tensions  even further in the occupied territory.

For months, Western governments have sent weapons to Israel while fending off accusations of abetting war crimes in Gaza. But as an outcry over the civilian death toll mounts, maintaining that balance is becoming increasingly difficult .

Mobilizing the American Left: As the death toll in Gaza climbed, the pro-Palestinian movement grew into a powerful, if disjointed, political force in the United States . Democrats are feeling the pressure.

Riding Rage Over Israel: Jackson Hinkle’s incendiary commentary  has generated over two million new followers on X since October — a surge that some researchers say is aided by inauthentic accounts by the online celebrity.

Psychedelics and Trauma: Thousands of festival-goers were using mind-altering substances when Hamas-led fighters attacked on Oct 7. Now, scientists are studying the effects of such drugs at a moment of trauma .

Turmoil at J Street: The war in Gaza has raised serious concerns within the Jewish political advocacy group about its ability to hold a middle position  without being pulled apart by forces on the right and the left.