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2 Week Europe Itinerary - Barcelona Parc Guell Sunrise

2 Weeks in Europe – The Perfect Europe Itinerary

Last updated: January 28, 2024 . Written by Laurence Norah - 30 Comments

Are you visiting Europe and looking for the perfect itinerary? Well, you’re in the right place! We’ve travelled extensively in Europe, and based on our experiences, we’ve put together a detailed 2 week Europe itinerary to help you plan.

This Europe itinerary will take you to many of the highlights that we think first time visitors to Europe will want to see and explore for themselves. These include many of our favourite destinations that we’ve visited multiple times over.

This itinerary is aimed at those of you visiting Europe for the first time, or those of you looking for an easy itinerary to follow that covers some of the major highlights of Western Europe. It’s not overly rushed as we think you will get more from your experience if you focus on a few major locations rather than trying to see everything in one go.

The trip as outlined is for 14 days in Europe, but you could make it longer or shorter depending on how much time you have. For example, with 10 days in Europe, you could clip off a day or two in some of the cities, and maybe even skip one of the cities to make it a more comfortable experience.

As well as the itinerary, we’re also going to share everything you need to know to help you plan the perfect European trip. Tips about currency, what to pack, where to stay, how to get around and other considerations.

Hopefully this guide will give you everything you need to know to plan your own perfect European adventure, and of course, we’re always happy to answer your questions in the comments. Now, let’s get started!

Table of Contents:

2 Week Europe Itinerary

This two week itinerary has you visiting four European countries and five cities. We think these cover some of the top highlights of Europe.

The destinations on this itinerary are all cities, so this trip is aimed more towards those of you looking to explore the cities, which are all full of cultural highlights, fantastic restaurants, and plenty of photo-worthy sights!

But if have your eye more on smaller towns, secondary cities, and rural locations, this might not be the best itinerary for you.

If you’d prefer to focus on one country, take a look at our two week UK itinerary , and our 10 day Italy itinerary for some inspiration.

Days 1 – 3: London

We’re going to start your European adventure with 3 days in London . London makes a great starting point for your European itinerary. It has a number of international airports to choose from, so getting here is easy, and there are a wealth of sights and cultural attractions to immerse yourself in. I lived in London for a number of years, and it’s still one of my favourite cities in the world.

If this is your first overseas trip and you are coming from an English speaking country, London is a good place to ease yourself into the experience. You can acclimate yourself to the time difference and get used to travelling in a new country, without having a language barrier to work with as well.

We think 3 days is a good amount of time to spend basing yourself in London. We’d suggest spending at least two days exploring the capital, and perhaps one day trip outside of London. This might look as follows.

On your first day in London, we’d suggest seeing the major sights around Westminster. This includes the Houses of Parliament , Westminster Abbey , Trafalgar Square, Covent Garden, the Churchill War Rooms , Buckingham Palace and the London Eye .

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On your second day, which will be a full day, we’d suggest starting at the Tower of London . Get here when it opens to avoid the crowds if you can. Included on the London Pass , or y ou can buy a ticket online in advance here . Using our link saves you some money on the adult admission price for the Tower of London, meaning these discounted Tower of London tickets are some of the best value we’re aware of.

We also recommend checking prices via GetYourGuide here , and on the official website here , as pricing can vary. You can also see opening times and other information for your visit on the official site.

Once you are done with the Tower of London, you can see more sites in the area like Tower Bridge , Borough Market (a London Harry Potter filming location ), St. Paul’s Cathedral , the Tate Modern , Shakespeare’s Globe and the Shard .

You certainly won’t run out of things to occupy your time! For some more inspiration, see our guides for 2 days in London and 3 days in London . We also recommend picking up a two day London Pass to save money on your sightseeing while in London. You can do that here .

On your third day in the UK, we recommend taking a day trip out of the city. This could be to somewhere like Windsor Castle or Hampton Court Palace , neither of which are too far.

If you really want to get out a bit further, we can recommend perhaps taking a trip to Stonehenge, the Cotswolds, Bath or Oxford. There are a variety of companies who offer easy day trips from London which include a number of these highlights like this or this , or you could do it yourself.

See our guide to taking a day trip to Stonehenge and a day trip to Oxford for some inspiration. If you’re a Harry Potter fan, then you may instead consider a trip out to the Harry Potter Studios where the films were made.

Of course, you will want to adjust this schedule depending on when you arrive and depart London. Our suggestion would be to take the day trip on your last day, overnight in London, and then take an early morning train to Paris.

Whilst you’re in London, we recommend getting around by public transport. It’s the most cost effective and also generally the most efficient way to get around. See our guide to public transport in London for some tips, as well as our overview of how to pay for public transport in London .

If you enjoy walking tours, there’s no shortage of options to choose from in the city. We love taking a walking tour when we first arrive in a new city – it can be a good way to get familiar with the city, plus you can ask your guide for local tips on places to eat and less well-known attractions.

If you do decide to take a walking tour, we suggest Take Walks for small group tour (tours range in length from a couple of hours to full day tours), and Context for private tours. We’d specifically recommend this full day walking tour with Take Walks as a possible option to consider.

You’ll most likely be arriving into London by plane, into one of London’s major international airports. London actually has six airports, but you’re most likely to land in either Gatwick or Heathrow. Whichever one you do land at, we have a guide to how to get from the airport to London .

Well, that’s your time in London covered. Now we’ll suggest a few places for you to stay, before giving you some tips on getting from Paris to London.

Where to stay in London

Some of our favourite hotels, from budget to luxury, in London are as follows:

The Walrus Bar and Hostel – A well reviewed centrally located hostel
The Z hotel in Shoreditch – Excellent value in a popular part of London with great dining options
Point A Hotel – We’ve stayed here; the rooms are tiny but clean and it’s a great budget option.
Lime Tree Hotel – A well reviewed boutique hotel, around nine minutes walk from London Victoria
The Resident Victoria Hotel – A well reviewed and centrally located hotel offering excellent value for money. The room we stayed in was quite compact, but it had everything we needed
The Savoy – true luxury as close to the city centre as you can get!

If you prefer an apartment, then we recommend Plum Guide .

Plum Guide doesn’t have quite so many choices as some other UK based websites , but they carefully curate their listings so their options tend to be of a very high quality whilst still being available at a range of price points. We’ve used them on a number of trips and always had a great experience. See their listings for London here .

If you can’t find what you want on Plum Guide or you want some new options to try out, we wrote a whole post on the best alternatives to AirBnB which you should check out!

How to get to Paris from London

We’d recommend taking the Eurostar train service from London to Paris. This departs multiple times a day, and the journey takes 2 hours and 16 minutes.

This is a lot quicker than flying, especially once you consider you’ll have to get to and from the airport on either end. The Eurostar will take you directly to Gare Du Nord. Get your tickets for that journey in advance here .

We also have a guide to getting from London to Paris which lists all the options you have.

Days 4 – 6: Paris

Welcome to Paris – the city of lights and love! We’re going to suggest three full days exploring Paris, as the city has so much to offer.

After you’ve dropped your bags off at your hotel (or at a luggage storage location ), it’s time to start sightseeing. As with London, the plan is to see the major sights in the city.

We’re going to start off with the Eiffel Tower . This is without doubt Paris’s most famous landmark, and a must-visit when you come to Paris. You can either enjoy the views from below or head up inside the tower to one of the various stages.

If you do decide to go up the Eiffel Tower, we highly recommend you book your tickets in advance. The best place to do this is on the official website . There are often huge lines for tickets on site, and you don’t want to waste time unnecessarily. For a lot more tips for your visit, see our complete guide to visiting the Eiffel Tower .

From the Eiffel Tower, we suggest taking a cruise on the River Seine , which will let you see many of the highlights of the city from the river. You can book a discounted Seine River cruise which departs from near the Eiffel Tower with our link .

Alternatively, you might prefer to do an evening Seine River dinner cruise , in which case this will happen later.

After the cruise, you might consider a walking tour of Paris or a Hop on Hop off bus trip. Alternatively, consider visiting the Musee d’Orsay .

On your second day in Paris, we suggest you start bright and early with a visit to spectacular Sainte Chapelle , one of Paris’s prettiest churches. The stained-glass windows here have to be seen to be believed. Just be sure to turn up at or just before opening time, as the lines get very busy.

From here, you can pop across to Notre Dame if you want. Due to the fire in 2019 this is undergoing significant reconstruction work, so do keep that in mind. From Notre Dame, head across to the Louvre , one of the most famous art museums in the world.

There’s a huge amount to see here, including highlights such as the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo. You could spend a whole day here, but you may want to limit yourself to 2 – 3 hours so you can see more of the city! Book your tickets online in advance here .

From the Louvre, if you have time, you might consider sneaking in a wine tasting session , or going for afternoon tea in Paris . From here, it’s time to head up the most famous shopping street in Paris, the Champs Elysees, where you’ll finish up at the Arc de Triomphe .

This massive archway stands in memory of those who died in the French Revolution and the Napoleonic Wars. The view from the top is one of our favourite views in Paris, so do head to the top if you have the time.

For your final day in Paris, our suggestion is that you head out to Versailles . This was the palace of French royalty, and is a stunning place to visit. You can book your tickets for Versailles in advance here .

Between exploring the palace and the extensive gardens, there is more than enough to do here to fill from half a day to a full day, which is why we suggest allocating most of the day to it. Then perhaps plan a nice dinner or show for your final evening.

We can recommend the evening show at the Moulin Rouge, and you can read about our experience at the Moulin Rouge here , and book tickets here .

And that’s all your sightseeing for your time in Paris on our European itinerary! For more detailed inspiration for your time in Paris, see our itinerary for 3 days in Paris and 2 days in Paris , which should give you lots more ideas.

For your visit in Paris, we recommend either the Paris Pass , or the Paris Museum Pass . The former includes a number of activities like the hop on hop off bus tour, guided Eiffel Tower climb, and Seine River cruise, as well as all the museums and sights included on the Paris Museum Pass. These both include most of the attractions we’ve listed, including Versailles.

You can buy the Paris Pass on the official site here , and the Paris Museum Pass here .

Again, for those of you who enjoy walking tours, we recommend Take Walks and Context . The former offer small group walking tours, whilst the latter primarily focus on private tours. We’ve taken tours with both companies in cities around the world and are always happy to recommend them.

As an example tour, check out this full day Paris tour , which includes a Skip the Line Louvre Tour, Eiffel Tower, Montmartre & Seine River Cruise.

As with London, the easiest way to get around Paris is to take public transport. Specifically, the Metro is likely going to be the fastest and most cost-effective way to get around.

We have a full guide to how to get around Paris , which should help you plan your transport in the city.

Now, we’re going to share some tips on where to stay in Paris, as well as how to get to the next city on your itinerary of Europe – Barcelona.

Where to stay in Paris

Our itinerary has you spending 2 nights in Paris, arriving by train on the morning of the first day, and departing either by plane on the evening of the third day. We suggest the following options for accommodation in Paris.

3 Ducks Hostel . A well-rated boutique hostel just 2 minutes from the nearest metro and a 22 minute walk to the Eiffel Tower
Hotel Dress Code & Spa , A highly reviewed centrally located 4 star hotel
Hotel Ekta Champs Elysees – a well rated 3* hotel just off the Champs Elysees
Hôtel Eiffel Turenne , A well rated 3* hotel within a ten minute walk of the Eiffel Tower
Ateliers de Montmartre , An apartment in Montmartre with views of the Sacre Coeur
Vintage Paris Gare du Nord by Hiphophostels , A hostel located just next to Paris Gare du Nord
George V – A fabulous centrally located 5* hotel, an excellent luxury pick

We’ve also stayed in Paris with Plum Guide in a gorgeous apartment with Eiffel Tower views. See their listings for Paris here .

How to get from Paris to Barcelona

You have two main options for travelling from Paris to Barcelona, you can take the train, or you can fly.

There used to be a direct night train from Paris to Barcelona, but this was discontinued in 2013. So you can take a train in the daytime (around 6.5 hours journey time) or you can travel by a slower overnight train (around 13 hours).

We think flying is likely going to be the easiest option. There are a number of direct evening flights from Paris to Barcelona, taking just under two hours. Just try to book a flight from Paris Orly or Paris Charles de Gaulle. Many budget airlines operate from Paris Beauvais, which is quite a long way outside the city, and requires a lengthy coach journey.

Check flight times and prices online here . If you’d prefer to take the train, you can check train times and prices here .

Days 7- 9: Barcelona

It’s time for the third city on your European adventure – Barcelona! Barcelona is full of incredible sights, including architectural gems from Antoni Gaudi, a gothic city center, and even a beach!

Again, we think you’ll need 3 days to do justice to all the sights in Barcelona. We’re also going to suggest a day trip from the city to explore some of the surrounding highlights. Here’s how your three days in Barcelona might look.

We suggest starting your first day with a trip to the Sagrada Familia . This was master architect Antoni Gaudi’s final work, and whilst construction was started in 1882, he didn’t live to see it completed. It’s getting there now, but still has some way to go!

The Sagrada Familia is a very popular attraction and they operate a timed entry system. It’s vital that you reserve your timeslot in advance, as otherwise you will end up in a very long queue, and at busy times of year, tickets sell out far in advance. You can reserve your tickets online here .

We also have a detailed guide to visiting the Sagrada Familia which we recommend reading in advance of your visit.

After spending a couple of hours at the Sagrada Familia, we recommend heading across to the nearby Recinte Modernista Sant Pau , a beautiful Art Nouveau style hospital building which has UNESCO world heritage status.

After the Recinte Modernista Sant Pau, continue on to Park Güell . This is a large public park which was also designed by Anton Gaudi, and there’s a lot to see here. Again, this is a popular spot with timed entry, and we highly advise booking this online in advance here .

Near Park Güell is the Gaudi Experience , where you can learn a bit about the man behind some of the wonderful architecture you have been experiencing. You can get tickets for that here if you are interested.

From the Gaudi Experience, you have a few options depending on your interest. If you are using the hop on hop off bus to travel around Barcelona (included on the Go Barcelona Pass ), it continues from Park Guell on to a number of other attractions.

These include the hill top fairground Tibidabo , the stunning Monastery of Pedralbes , and Camp Nou , the home of Barcelona’s football club.

We’re sure one or more of those will be of interest!

For your second day in Barcelona, we suggest starting with a visit to some of Gaudi’s famous houses near the city centre – Casa Batlló , and Casa Milá . These are popular, so try to get here by opening time so as not to have to queue for too long.

Then, continue your day by exploring the oldest part of Barcelona – the Gothic Quarter. Here you can visit the incredible Barcelona Cathedral , the UNESCO world heritage listed Palau de la Musica Catalana , and the Picasso Museum .

For your third day, you could continue to explore Barcelona. You could visit the beach, Barcelona Zoo , the attractions on Montjuic Hill – the list goes on! See our 3 day Barcelona itinerary for more ideas.

However, we think you might enjoy heading out of the city on a day trip to explore a bit of Catalonia, the region which Barcelona is capital of.

A popular day trip from Barcelona is a visit to Girona and Figueres, two lovely towns which are rich in history. Girona is home to stunning medieval architecture, and Figueres is known as the birthplace of surrealist artist Salvador Dali .

You can see our guide to visiting Girona and Figueres in a day here . In terms of tours, we suggest this full day tour which includes Girona and the coast, or this full day tour which includes Girona and time to visit the Dali Museum in Figueres.

The other popular option is to visit the spectacular monastery and mountains of Montserrat, around an hour from Barcelona. You can see our guide to visiting Montserrat here for all the tips you need to do that.

Of course, there are lots of other tour options. You could go hot air ballooning , visit the Vall de Nuria , go skiing (if you visit in winter), go hiking in La Garrotxa , visit the Montserrat monastery – the list goes on!

That just about wraps up our suggestions for what to see and do with your three days in Barcelona.

To further help you with your planning for Barcelona, we have some guides we think you’ll find useful. See our itinerary for 3 days in Barcelona , our guide to Gaudi sites in Barcelona , and our favourite photography locations in Barcelona to get you started.

There are a few city passes for Barcelona, including the Barcelona City Pass , the Barcelona Card , and the Go Barcelona Pass . These work slightly differently, and so one or the other might be better for you. See our full break down and review of all the passes in our comparison of the Barcelona Discount Passes .

For most visitors we think the Go Barcelona Pass will offer the best value as it includes the main attractions like the Sagrada Familia, Park Guell and hop on hop off bus tour. We also have a full review of the Go Barcelona Pass to help you decide if it’s going to save you some money.

Finally, it’s worth bearing in mind that Barcelona has a bit of a poor reputation when it comes to petty crime, specifically around pick pockets, and items like phones being swiped off cafe tables. We have not personally experienced this, but have heard firsthand accounts from readers and friends who have.

We have more on this in our section below with tips for safety when travelling in Europe, but just try to keep your valuables out of sight all the time, ideally in zipped and secured pockets.

Now, let’s look at some options for where to stay in Barcelona, before planning how to get to the next city in your Europe itinerary.

Where to Stay in Barcelona

Here are a few options for your stay in Barcelona across a variety of price points, including a number of hotels we’ve personally stayed in and can recommend.

Hotel Barcelona Catedral – A 4* property in Barcelona in the heart of the Gothic Quarter. We’ve stayed here, and enjoyed the roof top pool and incredible central location.
Hostel One Ramblas – A very well reviewed and very central hostel option
The 8 Boutique B&B – A highly rated and well located bed and breakfast
Duquesa de Cardona – A 4* property on the waterfront with a roof top bar
Leonardo Hotel Barcelona Las Ramblas – Part of the good value Leonardo chain, this 3* property is a few moments from Las Ramblas. We enjoyed our stay here, and the breakfast in particular was excellent.
Ohla Barcelona – A very central 5* property with a roof top pool and excellent reviews.

How to Get from Barcelona to Venice

From Barcelona, the next stop on the trip will be Venice, Italy. If you are travelling for less than two weeks, you might want to skip Venice, and head straight to the last city on this itinerary, but for two weeks in Europe, we think Venice is a great addition.

The main option you have for getting from Barcelona to Rome is to fly. Of course, you could take the train, but as the average journey is around 22 hours and requires a number of changes, we’d suggest a flight is going to make more sense.

A direct flight from Barcelona to Rome is just under 2 hours. You can either go on your evening of your final day in Barcelona or the morning of the following day, it’s up to you. We think travelling in the evening makes more sense so you don’t lose time sightseeing in the morning.

Check times and book your flights here .

Days 10 – 11: Venice

You’ve arrived in the fourth and final country of your 2-week European itinerary – Italy! Home to amazing gelato , delicious coffee , and oodles of history.

We’re going to visit two cities in Italy on your European itinerary, both of which are favourites with visitors to Italy – us included! Of course, it’s hard to pick a second city in Italy from all the amazing options, but we think Venice is a must. Naturally, this will be followed by Rome.

We’ve put Venice ahead of Rome for the simple reason that it’s relatively easy to fly to Venice from the rest of Europe, but a little bit harder to fly onwards from Venice to international destinations. Ending the itinerary in Rome should make it easier for you to travel onwards to international destinations.

Anyway, we’re getting ahead of ourselves.

The next city on your European adventure is the beautiful city of Venice. This car-free city is famous for being built across a number of islands, with waterways and boats replacing roads and cars.

Venice is definitely one of our favourite cities in Europe, and was where we had our wedding ceremony with friends and family. So it’s definitely a city that is close to our hearts.

We’re going to recommend you spend two days in Venice. Many people visit the city for a day, which is do-able of course, but to really get a feel for Venice, we think you’ll enjoy spending two days here.

Our recommendation for your two days in Venice is to spend the first day exploring the highlights of the city – places like St. Mark’s Square, the Doge’s Palace and the Rialto Bridge. Take a Gondola ride , listen to musicians playing in the cafes, and get lost down the countless winding alleyways.

For your second day, we recommend taking a boat out to one of the islands around Venice, like Murano or Burano. These are much quieter with a different vibe to Venice itself, and we think you’ll enjoy this as a way to finish off your grand European adventure.

For more inspiration on what to do in Venice, see our guide to spending a day in Venice . We also recommend reading our guide to visiting the Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica .

Of course, if you would prefer to visit another city in Italy other than Venice, you could spend these two days in any number of destinations, including the Amalfi Coast, Cinque Terre, Naples or Florence . You could even do a one day stopover in Florence on your way to Rome, rather than spending the two days in Venice. It’s entirely up to you, and depends on the flights you can find.

Where to Stay in Venice

Venice has a great many options for accommodation. Just be aware that many of the properties are old (as is much of the city!), and so elevators are not always standard. In addition, there are no vehicles allowed, so to get to your hotel from the train station you’ll need to take a ferry boat, water taxi, or walk.

Casa Cosmo – a great value well rated budget option, five minutes walk from St. Mark’s Square and the Rialto Bridge. Rooms are air conditioned and are en-suite
B&B Bloom Settimo Cielo – A highly rated and good value B&B breakfast, 10 minutes from St. Mark’s Square and the Rialto Bridge. Individually designed rooms have en-suite facilities, and there’s a rooftop terrace
Leon Bianco on the Grand Canal – this historic property with Grand Canal views is where we stayed for our wedding ceremony in Venice. The views are fantastic, and it’s amazing value for the location
Hotel Saturnia & International – a lovely 4* hotel just moments from Saint Mark’s Square, this turn of the century hotel offers en-suite rooms, a terrace with views, and an on-site restaurant.
The Gritti Palace – a 5* luxury property right on St. Mark’s Square – this is the place you stay if you want to be in the middle of everything

How to Get from Venice to Rome

The best way to get from Venice to Rome is to take the train.

As always, you’ll get the best prices if you book your tickets in advance. You can check train times, prices, and book online here .

There are also flights, but by the time you have gotten to the airport, checked in, and then collected your baggage at the other end and gotten from Rome airport to the city center, you might as well have taken the train!

Days 12 – 14: Rome

Your next stop in Italy, and the last stop on your Europe itinerary, is the Italian capital of Rome. Founded almost 3,000 years ago, Rome is absolutely stuffed full of historical wonders and attractions.

We think that to do Rome justice, you should spend three days here. Here’s how those days might look.

Start your first day with a visit to the Colosseum . Built during the height of the Roman Empire, and nearly 2,000 years old, this is the largest amphitheatre in the world. It’s a must when in Rome.

Do be aware that like many of the other popular attractions in our itinerary, the Colosseum operates a timeslot system for entry, and you absolutely need to book in advance. See our complete guide to visiting the Colosseum for more on that.

After the Colosseum, we recommend visiting the Roman Forum, which is next to the Colosseum, and usually included on the Colosseum entry ticket. This was the heart of the Roman Empire, and is also a must when visiting Rome.

You’ll likely already be half way through your first day already. We suggest spending the rest of the day exploring the historic city center, with attractions like the Spanish Steps, Pantheon, and Trevi Fountain.

For your second day in Rome, we recommend you head to the Vatican City. This is a city-state inside Rome itself, and is home to the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica. The Vatican Museums are home to world renowned works of art as well as the Sistine Chapel – a masterpiece of Renaissance art.

Both these attractions are very popular, and you will want to plan in advance to ensure you don’t waste time standing in line if you are visiting at a busy time of year. You have a few options.

First, you can take a guided tour which includes the Vatican and St. Peter’s Basilica like this one .

This will give you loads of information about what you are seeing and ensure you don’t waste time standing in line.

Another option is to invest in a pass which includes skip the line entry or a tour of these attractions. We would suggest looking at the Rome Tourist Card which includes skip the line access to the Vatican, Colosseum, and St. Peter’s Basilica.

You can also consider the Omnia Vatican and Rome Card , although this doesn’t currently include skip the line access to St. Peter’s Bascilica.

Finally, you can book individual tickets here for the Vatican via their official website (or here on GetYourGuide , which is easier to use in our experience).

As of early 2023 St Peter’s Basilica doesn’t actually have an entry fee, but nor does it have skip the line tickets (skip the line tickets used to be an option and we hope they come back soon!). So the best option if you want to skip the line is to invest either in a tour or a pass which includes a tour like the Rome Tourist Card .

You can also book Vatican tickets here , using our link gives you 5% off their usual price for Vatican tickets. It’s a little more expensive than the official website but somewhat more user friendly in our experience.

Exit Stairway Vatican Museums Rome_by_Laurence Norah (3)

We recommend allocating at least half a day to explore the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica.

For lots more information on visiting the Vatican City and its attractions, see our complete guide to the Vatican , which has everything you need to know, including all the highlights, tips for visiting, how to buy tickets and lots more.

From here, head along to the Tiber River, and explore Castel Sant’Angelo (get tickets here ). Afterwards you can head back towards the city center, and visit locations like the Piazza Popolo.

If you have time and are interested you could also visit the Borghese Gallery. Note that this is also a timed entry system – see our guide to visiting the Borghese Gallery for more.

For your last day in Rome, we recommend spending some time exploring the Appian Way. This was one of the major routes in and out of the city, and is home to a number of ancient Roman ruins, as well as catacombs. A stop at the Baths of Caracalla on your way out of the city is also recommended.

Another option for your last day in Rome (or your first day, depending on how you decide to structure your itinerary) is to take a walking tour.

We’ve taken a number of walking tours in Rome with both Take Walks and Context , and enjoyed them all. As an example, see this introduction to Rome which includes gelato tasting!

For more inspiration for your visit to Rome, see our itineraries for 3 days in Rome , 2 days in Rome and a day in Rome .

In terms of saving money, there are a number of passes available for sight-seeing. For 3 days, our recommendation would be the Omnia Rome and Vatican Card. This includes public transport in Rome, a hop on hop off pass, and skip the line entry with timed reservations at the major attractions.

There are other passes as well, including the Roma Pass , the Rome Tourist Card and the Best of Rome All Access pass . Which is best for you will depend on how many sites you are interested in visiting, and whether you plan on using the specific features they offer.

That pretty much finishes up the itinerary section of this post. We’ll share with you our tips for where to stay in Rome, before moving on to some practical information to help you plan this trip perfectly.

Where to Stay in Rome

We recommend the following hotels in Rome. The first three are near the main train station, which will make for an easier transfer when you arrive from Venice.

Gioberti Art Hotel – 50 yards from Termini Station, a well rated excellent value 4* hotel
NH Collection Palazzo Cinquecento – Awesome value 5* hotel just a few steps from the train station
Hotel Valentino Palace – a fantastic mid-range 3* property, just 150 yards from the train station
The Navona Theatre Hotel – a well reviewed and very centrally located 3* hotel
The Mimosa Pantheon Hotel – an excellent value budget hotel just around the corner from the Pantheon
The Hotel Navona – a well reviewed 3* hotel next to the Pantheon
Di Rienzo Pantheon Palace – a centrally located well reviewed boutique hotel within walking distance of Rome’s highlights

2 days in Rome - Sunrise castell d angelo rome

2 Week Europe Itinerary Map

To help you visualise this itinerary, we’ve put together this overview map of the stops and route.

2 Week Europe Itinerary Summary:

Day 1: London. Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, Trafalgar Square, Covent Garden, Churchill War Rooms, Buckingham Palace and the London Eye .
Day 2: London. Tower of London , Tower Bridge, Borough Market, St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Tate Modern, Shakespeare’s Globe and the Shard.
Day 3: London. Windsor Castle, Hampton Court Palace, Stonehenge
Day 4: Paris. Eiffel Tower, Seine River Cruise, Musee d’Orsay, Walking tour
Day 5: Paris. Saint Chapelle, Notre Dame, Louvre, Arc de Triomphe
Day 6: Paris. Versaille, Moulin Rouge
Day 7: Barcelona. Sagrada Familia, Recinte Modernista Sant Pau, Park Güell, Gaudi Experience, Camp Nou
Day 8: Barcelona. Casa Batlló, Casa Milá, Barcelona Cathedral, Palau de la Musica Catalana, Picasso Museum
Day 9: Barcelona. Girona & Figueres
Day 10: Venice. St. Mark’s Square, Doge’s Palace, Rialto Bridge, Gondola ride
Day 11: Venice. Murano, Burano
Day 12: Rome. Colosseum, Roman Forum, Spanish Steps, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain.
Day 13: Rome. Vatican Museums, St. Peter’s Basilica, Castel Sant’Angelo, Piazza Popolo, Borghese Gallery
Day 14: Rome. Appian Way, Baths of Caracalla

How to Get Around Europe

Europe has no shortage of transportation options to get you from place to place. For this itinerary, we would suggest you primarily use the train to get from city to city.

The high speed trains in Europe run frequently, are very comfortable, and are more environmentally friendly than short hop flights. If you book in advance they can also be cost effective. They also have the advantage that there are fewer baggage restrictions, and train stations tend to be in the city center – unlike airports.

Of course, not every segment of this trip would suit a train. For example, from Barcelona to Venice would take at least 24 hours by train. Also, Paris to Barcelona is a fairly lengthy journey. There is the option to take an overnight train, however it isn’t direct so it takes a while. It does save you the cost of a hotel night though.

For train travel across Europe, it’s important to book your tickets in advance as this will get you the best prices. We recommend thetrainline which supports booking tickets in all the countries visited on this itinerary.

For flights, we suggest you try Kiwi , which includes the major low cost airlines as well the more traditionally priced carriers.

When to Visit Europe

You can certainly visit Europe year-round, although visiting at different times of year will give you different experiences.

For the most part, summers in Europe are quite warm, with temperatures likely to be between 25C & 32C (77F – 90F) on average. Whilst the weather is going to be most reliable in the summer months of June through August, this is also going to be the busiest time of year to visit.

The cities in particular are very popular with visitors, and lines for attractions can be long at these times of year. We wouldn’t say you shouldn’t visit at this time of year, but you should definitely plan ahead and arrange all your entry tickets so as to make the most effective use of your time.

Our favourite time to travel in Europe is the shoulder months of April / May, and September / October. These months tend to offer a combination of reasonable weather and less busy attractions.

We’ve also travelled extensively throughout Europe in the cooler winter months, from November through to March. It never gets much below freezing during this time, so as long as you dress appropriately, we think you will have a great time.

See our guide to what to pack for London to give you some ideas of what you might want to bring along.

We don’t think there’s a bad time of year to travel in Europe. It’s just a question of planning and preparing properly in advance. It is also worth checking if there are any events happening in the city when you visit that might cause it to be busier.

For example, Venice has a major Carnival celebration near the start of the year, and the city is always busier at this time. Other cities also have events, and if you visit during them you will find accommodation prices will be higher, and the city will be busier.

Practical Advice for Travelling in Europe

Europe uses a 220-240V electrical system, so if you are travelling from the USA, Canada, or any other country that uses a 110V system, you will need to check that your electrical items are compatible.

In our experience, lower power items like laptops and smartphone charges are compatible from 110V – 240V, but higher power items like hair dryers and hair straighteners are usually not. The power rating and acceptable voltage should be marked on the device somewhere.

It’s really important you don’t plug a device into a voltage it doesn’t support, as it will damage it. Its best to leave non-compatible items at home and purchase a dual voltage appliance if you need it during your trip, such as a dual voltage hair straightener .

In addition, the UK and continental Europe have two different plug types. Mainland Europe generally uses a two pin system with round holes, whilst the UK has a three pin system with rectangular holes.

For travel, therefore, you will need a travel adaptor like this which will let you plug your devices in. Note that most travel adaptors are not voltage convertors. You would need something like this to convert the voltage.

Internet in the form of free WiFi access is fairly easy to get access too across all the cities mentioned in our article. In addition, since the EU has abolished roaming charges, if you buy a SIM card in one EU country, you should be able to continue to use it in other countries without any additional charges.

Depending on the device you are travelling with, you will have a number of options for accessing the internet when you travel, from picking up a local SIM, to renting a WiFi hotspot, to just using WiFi as you go.

We have a detailed guide to getting online when you travel to help you figure out which is best for you.

The two currencies that you’ll need for this trip are the pound sterling (GBP) and the euro (EUR). The UK (London in the case of our itinerary) uses the pound sterling and the rest of the European destinations on our itinerary use the Euro. Euros from one country can be used in any of the other countries.

In our experience, you should be able to pay for the majority of your travel spending using a credit or debit card. We’d advise getting one of these that doesn’t impose foreign transaction fees if that is an option. Ideally it will also support contactless technology, which will make using it for smaller payments easier.

We would also suggest you always have some cash in the local currency on you for small purchases, tips, and places that don’t accept credit cards (or if there is any issues with your credit card).

There are cash machines available in all the major cities on this itinerary where you will be able to use your bank card to withdraw a local currency. Depending on the policy of your bank at home, you might be able to withdraw cash from these without a fee, but do check in advance of your travel so you don’t pay fees unexpectedly. Some ATM’s also charge a fee.

If there is a fee from your bank for withdrawing cash, you might find it is more cost effective to order some money at home before you leave – or to find a bank account that lets you withdraw cash fee free.

All the cities that we have listed are relatively safe, but of course you should take the same safety precautions when travelling that you would at home. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and don’t leave valuables lying around where they could be easily snatched.

It’s also a good idea to read up on some of the common scams that you might encounter in each city – for example, we wrote a guide to common scams in Paris to give you an idea of what to look out for.

We’d also suggest keeping your valuables locked in your hotel safe when possible, and to avoid carrying large amounts of money on you. We’d also suggest having a good travel insurance policy. Basically, just apply the same safety principles that you would at home to your personal belongings and safety, and you should have a safe trip!

Drinking Water

Unless otherwise indicated with a sign, the water in the taps in all of the cities on our list is safe to drink. In some cities, you’ll also found water fountains where you can refill your water bottle.

The water in Barcelona does have a slightly strange taste due to the high mineral content, and many local people prefer to drink bottled water. However, the tap water is safe to drink unless otherwise noted.

We very much recommend that you travel with a high quality reusable water bottle like this and fill it up as you go. This will be friendlier to the environment, and save you having to spend money on a resource that is available for free.

Walking Tours in Europe

One of our favourite ways to explore a new city is to take a walking tour. It’s a great way to get oriented, learn about the city, its sights and its culture, plus get local tips on places to eat, drink and see from the guide.

We’ve taken walking tours in cities around the world, and we nearly always use one of two companies – Take Walks , and Context . Both of these companies offer small group walking tours in all the cities we’ve covered.

Take Walks offers tours with groups of up to around 14, whilst Context offers more private and semi-private tours. Here are some example tours to consider for the various cities in this itinerary.

This London In a Day tour visit the highlights of London in one day, including the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey & Changing of the Guard.
This introduction to London Tour which includes many of the highlights of the city
This tour of the Chruchill War Rooms in London
This full day tour of Paris which includes a Skip the Line Louvre Tour, the Eiffel Tower, Montmartre & a Seine River Cruise
An introduction to Paris Tour , which includes the Louvre, Opera Garnier and the Champs-Elysees
A full day tour of Barcelona which includes a visit to La Sagrada Família, Casa Milà & the Gothic Quarter
This Rome In A Day Tour which includes a guided visit and skip the line entry to the Vatican, the Colosseum & a tour of the Historic Center of the city
A full day tour of Venice which includes St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, & a Gondola Ride

Of course, this is just a sample of some of the many tours available, which vary in length from a couple of hours to a full day. We suggest taking a look at all the walks on Take Walks here and Context here . Note that all bookings through our Context links save you 10% on the tour price automatically.

Finally, there are of course a multitude of other options for walking tours. If you would like more options, we suggest looking at the listings on either GetYourGuide or Viator. These two sites have tour options from a wide range of companies, and you can read reviews from other travellers prior to booking to decide if it’s a good option for you.

Saving Money in Europe

Europe, and western Europe in particular, is not exactly known for being a budget destination. The cities in particular are fairly expensive. Your main costs on this trip are likely to be the flights (biggest cost for most), accommodation, attraction entry, transport between the cities, and eating out.

To help you control these costs, we wanted to share some of our tips from years of experience travelling in European cities, so you don’t spend money unnecessarily. Even if you’re not on a tight budget, there’s no need to waste money when you don’t have to!

Use City Passes

All the cities in our itinerary have one or more city passes to choose from. City passes generally include either free or discounted admission to the major attractions in the city, and may also include other benefits.

These other benefits will vary, but will generally include things like fast track entry to some attractions, inclusive public transport, hop on hop off bus tickets, and discounts on meals and other activities like walking tours, wine tastings, and so on.

We have used a number of city passes during our travels in the cities in this itinerary, and our recommended passes for you to consider are as follows:

For London: The London Pass. Available in durations from one to ten days, covers all the major attractions in London. See our full review of the London Pass here , and buy yours here .
For Paris: The Paris Pass or the Paris Museum Pass. The Paris Pass includes entry to most of Paris’s major museums, plus includes attractions like a HOHO bus and Seine River Cruise. The Paris Museum Pass just covers attraction entry fees. See our full review of the Paris Pass here , and buy your Paris Pass here . We also have a full review of the Paris Museum Pass here, and you can buy it here .
For Barcelona: The Go Barcelona Pass , Barcelona City Pass and Barcelona Card . These vary in what they cover, and whilst we suggest you pick up at least one of them, the best one for you will depend on your interests. See our full comparison of the Barcelona City Passes for more information.
For Rome: The Omnia Rome and Vatican Card or the Roma Pass . Both these passes include free public transport in Rome, as well as free and discounted admission to attractions across the city. The Omnia Rome and Vatican Card also includes skip the line access to the Vatican Museums, St. Peter’s Basilica, as well as other Vatican attractions. It also has a hop on hop off bus.
For Venice : We have never used a discount card in Venice. However, there is a Venice Pass which includes many of the museums and churches that is well worth checking out.

If you are planning on seeing a number of sights in each city you visit, a city pass can definitely save you money. Some of them will also save you time, as they offer skip the line benefits. However, we do recommend doing a little bit of reading on each pass to make sure it makes sense for your specific trip.

Note that city passes are often not as good of a value for children (especially young children) and those who are eligible for discounts at many attractions (seniors, disabled, EU university students), so do check if you qualify for any discounts before buying a pass.

Book accommodation and transportation in advance

The two major costs on your trip are likely to be accommodation and transportation. Our major tip for both of these is to book them in advance.

For transport in Europe, the best deals are nearly always to be had if you book as far in advance as possible. The cheapest tickets on flights and trains always sell out first, and then the prices will increase.

We recommend you check your flights and book in advance here , and your trains here .

Accommodation is not quite so straight forward, as prices can dip and rise depending on demand. However, in our personal experience, prices tend to be lower if we book further in advance. Plus, you can often take advantage of free cancellation policies, and re-book if the prices drop.

Also, don’t forget to look at accommodation options beyond hotels. Short term apartment rentals can be very cost effective, plus they will allow you to prepare some of your own meals if you want, which will also save you money.

We generally use booking.com for booking our hotels, and they also include apartments. We also use Plum Guide regularly. There are plenty more options though – see our guide to some AirBnB alternatives to give you some ideas.

Invest in a Guidebook

We recommend investing in a guidebook, especially if this is your first trip to western Europe.

Investing $15 to $25 in a guidebook can save you much more in time and money. A guidebook can cover much more in-depth information than we can in this blog post, and means you’ll have all the information you need at your fingertips.

For this trip, we recommend the Rick Steves Best of Europe guide . If you had to pick one guide book, that would be our favourite – it covers all the destinations in this itinerary (plus many more!) and has lots of practical information, tips and advice to help you plan. We use and love it.

If you have room in your bag, we can also recommend the Europe through the Back Door book , which has a lot of general travel advice for Europe.

Other options to consider include Lonely Planet’s Western Europe guidebook and/or the Insight Guide to Western Europe .

Be sure to purchase a recently edited/updated version of the guidebook. So make sure it was updated in the last year or so. Most guidebooks are updated every year or two to make sure the information is as up to date as possible.

If you are not sure which guidebook may be best for you, you might want to browse in your local bookshop or library before picking one.

Use Public Transport Effectively

The cheapest and most effective way to get around the cities listed in this post is to take public transport (well, after walking of course!).

Each city has its own public transport network, with various fares and ticket options. Learning how to use these properly will save you money.

For example, in London, it’s possible to buy individual tickets using cash. However, this can be twice as expensive as using an Oyster Card or Contactless bank card for your travel. In Paris, you can buy tickets individually, or you can save money by buying booklets of ten tickets.

In addition, many of the city passes we recommend come with some sort of travel card, which can also save you money.

Basically, each transport system has its own quirks, and having a handle on these will likely save you money. We also recommend always checking to see how far your destination is on foot before taking public transport.

The public transit maps are unlikely to match up to the reality of geography, and you might find it will take the same amount of time to walk somewhere as it would have to take a bus or metro, plus walking is free!

Find restaurant deals

Our final tip covers the last major expense, which will be eating out. Of course, eating out is a major part of travelling, but the costs can quickly add up.

The good news is that you can also save money on eating out. The secret is to figure out when the restaurant deals are likely to be happening.

For example, in France and Spain, it’s very common for lunch time menus to be offered. These are usually two or three course meals, which sometimes include wine, bread and coffee, and which are usually priced under €20 per person.

For Paris, see our guide to some of the best Michelin starred restaurants for lunch deals .

In London, these aren’t as common, however, many restaurants offer theater deals. These are special priced menus offered either late in the afternoon (5pm – 7pm generally) or late in the evening (10pm and onwards), designed for theatre goers who want to get a meal before or after the show.

Of course, you don’t have to be going to the theatre to take advantage of these deals!

Other options for saving money on dining out include taking advantage of street food, picking up “meal deals” at supermarkets like M&S in London, putting together picnics from markets in Paris – the list goes on. It is certainly possible to eat on the cheap quite easily if you make a little bit of effort to do so.

There are 30 comments on this post

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Kirsten says

1st April 2023 at 1:43 am

We just came back from this exact trip on 3/26/23. We followed your itinerary and most of your suggestions on what to do in each city. Thank you so much for putting this together. My husband and I aren’t the best planners and this step by step guide was so helpful and perfect for us! We really couldn’t have done it without you. Thank you!

Laurence Norah says

2nd April 2023 at 10:33 pm

Hi Kirsten!

Thank you so much for taking the time to stop by and share your experience! I’m delighted to hear you guys had a great time in Europe and that we were able to help with your trip planning, it really means a lot to know that our content is helpful 🙂

Safe travels!

Laurence & Jessica

12th February 2023 at 3:08 pm

This is an awesome itinerary. Thank you so much for sharing! We hope to make our first trip to Europe in the future.

12th February 2023 at 4:18 pm

My pleasure Sara, I hope you get to visit Europe soon and do let me know if you have any questions when you start to plan your trip!

6th February 2023 at 12:20 am

Hello, Thank you for great posts on Europe trip. Really help a lot when I’m trying to plan for mine. Do you mind sharing apartment name you stayed in Paris, the one with Eiffel tower view? Im looking for nice apartment to stay with Eiffel tower view for my honeymoon this year. Really appreciate it if you could share. Thank you 🙂

9th February 2023 at 8:15 am

Thanks very much. So the apartment was this one which we booked via Plum Guide. I’m not sure it’s still bookable, although there is an option to message the host. I’d also recommend the Eiffel Tower guide we have here , as that as a selection of accommodation options with good views. We’ve also stayed at the Pullman Paris hotel which has excellent Eiffel Tower views for example.

Have a great trip to Europe!

19th January 2023 at 4:05 pm

I’ve subscribed, but still cannot gain printing access…please help – thank you!

23rd January 2023 at 2:17 pm

Sorry for the slow response, we’re travelling in Uganda and Internet access has been sporadic! I can see you are an active subscriber, does it still not work when you put your email address in on the print page? If not, if you could let me know what device and browser you are using and I’ll see if I can figure out what is going on!

2nd July 2022 at 3:39 am

This was a great blog. I am trying to put together a surprise trip for my wife’s 40th next year. I am gonna try to do it myself based off all the deals y’all have given. Bless

2nd July 2022 at 10:58 am

My pleasure Wayne, have a great trip and do let me know if you have any questions 🙂

alex47_in_downtown says

8th February 2022 at 2:16 pm

This was the most detailed, informative & hence the most helpful travel blogpost I’ve ever read… 🙂 Perfect itinerary for first-timers (like me)…! Lots of love from India <3

10th February 2022 at 12:11 pm

Thanks very much Alex, I was delighted to be of help! I hope you have a great time in Europe, and do let me know if you have any questions!

Ashley Salgado says

8th October 2022 at 7:19 pm

Why not have a pdf versión to be able to print. Tried to print this but it’s a whopping 100 pages with all the ads and comments. Great info I’d love to print and read with time not on a screen.

8th October 2022 at 11:23 pm

Thanks for your message! Every post is available in printable format, if you look at the bottom of the post on mobile, or the side on desktop, there is a little print icon. If you press that you can go through the steps to access a printable version without ads, comments or images. You can then print it to PDF, most devices these days let you save a webpage as a PDF from the print option.

Have a great time in Europe!

Michelle says

2nd November 2021 at 1:49 am

I’m so glad I found this blog. This is so helpful and fantastic. It really gives us a clearer picture on how to plan our first trip to Europe (16 days) and it hits the cities we want to start off with and we plan on doing. Thank you!!!

2nd November 2021 at 11:06 am

My pleasure Michelle! Have a wonderful trip across Europe, and do let me know if you have any questions!

Penny Hampton says

2nd January 2021 at 2:42 pm

Loved your blog on traveling to Europe. We have never been to Europe so this would be our first time. What you write is exactly what we are looking for. Great advise on everything from where to go-where to stay and where to visit. If Covid ever dies down, we will try to make the trip.

2nd January 2021 at 2:46 pm

Thank you so much Penny! I certainly hope you get to take a trip sooner rather than later 🙂 If you have any questions when it comes to the planning, just let me know. Happy 2021!

20th February 2020 at 4:03 am

Hi Lawrence and Jessica,

Thank you so much for this article, it has been very helpful as I try and plan out our first trip to Europe. I will be taking my sons ages 24 and 18 this summer and are hoping to say about 18 days. We are planning to go to every location except Barcelona, and would like to add a city in either the Netherlands, Belgium or Switzerland. Which would you recommend? Also we are planning to travel at the end of July/early August, so I’m sure our costs will be quite high. Any thoughts on how much I should expect a 2 week trip to cost? I know that may be a difficult question to answer, but even if it’s a broad ballpark it would be very helpful.

20th February 2020 at 12:43 pm

Our pleasure, sounds like you have a great trip coming up! So yes, this is a really hard question to answer 😉 I would suggest taking a look at our suggested costs for a UK trip here , which should help with your planning. Prices in continental Europe are fairly comparable to the UK. Everyone has a different travel style and budget, and idea of what is expensive or acceptable, so it’s hard to know. There would be a huge difference depending on if it was hostel accommodation of 5* 😉 Just be aware that capital cities tend to be more expensive as a general rule of thumb.

In terms of saving, definitely check out apartment rentals which might work out cheaper as you are in a group. Also, booking transport well in advance (planes and trains) will make a huge difference to the cost. Flexibility in timing is also useful.

In terms of adding another city, Amsterdam is obviously nice but busy. Ghent and Bruges are lovely in Belgium. We’ve actually just come back from Switzerland. There’s a lot to choose from and a great transport network, but Geneva is a good starting point.

Let me know if you have any more questions, I’m happy to try and help!

12th February 2020 at 4:36 pm

I’ve sent this to my wife, this looks amazing! I think ill try to see if we can get an overnight Rail between the far trips however, this looks fantastic! and Exciting!

It will be our 1st trip to the EU, so hitting up all these locations at once will give us a great taste of so many locations!

12th February 2020 at 5:38 pm

Thanks Ryan! I hope you guys have a great trip, and do let me know if you have any questions!

10th December 2019 at 4:46 pm

Amazing article! You have inspired me to explore Europe soon! Thanks!

10th December 2019 at 4:58 pm

Thanks very much – I hope you get to visit soon and have a great trip when you do!

19th November 2019 at 4:03 pm

Loved this article and found it very useful. I’m in the process of trying to plan a trip for next year with my 18 and 19 year olds. I can’t quite committ to exactly where I want to take them. This will be our first trip overseas and I’ve been driving myself crazy googling different locations and ideas. This article has been one of the best as I feel like I really need a step by step guide to create and book whatever vacation I decide to go with. Any tips on what you think would be a great trip for that age bracket would be very appreciated.

20th November 2019 at 3:06 pm

Awesome, delighted to have been able to help. So I think this itinerary will work for your family, the only thing might be to tweak the attractions you visit based on your interests and the interests of your family. So if they aren’t into lots of museums, or art, then maybe cut those back a bit. Perhaps they’d be more interested in food tours or more interactive things like that. The best option would definitely be to just have a chat with them and find out what they might like to do, and then you can try to make everyone happy 😉 Communication is definitely key, and if they feel they have input and control then I think everyone will have a better time.

I hope this helps a bit!

Have an amazing trip and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any more questions!

Natasha says

4th October 2019 at 1:19 pm

I might suggest taking skipping at least Barcelona. It’s not that it’s not beautiful, it definetly is. The city can’t handle all the tourist coming its way…Please do some research beforehand. I might opt for a longer stay in one city than trying to do too much. Or focus on one region. You probably wouldn’t do New York, California, Chicago and Grand Canyon in 2 weeks… It may not look like it on the map, but these aren’t such small distances.

4th October 2019 at 7:40 pm

Hi Natasha,

Thanks for your feedback. I’d disagree about Barcelona as I think it’s a beautiful city (we have visited many times – this article is based on our experiences not research). We would agree that folks should try and spend longer in each place rather than moving too fast for sure, and slower travel is something we prefer ourselves. That said, not everyone has the luxury of longer vacations, and wants to see quite a few places, hence we’ve put this itinerary together. Compared to some itineraries, we think it’s actually pretty relaxed and achievable 🙂

Thanks again for taking the time to comment!

14th September 2019 at 4:57 pm

Thanks for this detailed itinerary and plans. I really liked reading this. We are planning for a Europe trip on coming December. Do you think the itinerary you mentioned can be a difficult one to choose because of weather in December?

14th September 2019 at 5:47 pm

I think the itinerary is do-able at any time of year. December is a good month for visiting Europe as you have the pretty Christmas lights and Christmas markets. Obviously it will be colder and there’s more chance of rain, but appropriate clothing will solve that issue!

Have a great trip and let me know if I can be of any more help 🙂

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This Grand European trip has all the 'musts', but also takes you off the beaten path. Discover the gourmet talents of France, the heart of the Black Forest and the moreish delights of Sachertorte in classical Vienna, leaving with a song in your heart and a polka in your step.

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23 days itinerary trip from London to Paris visiting 11 countries and 27 cities Choose Your End Location

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Sightseeing highlights.

Fast-track Admission to the Vatican Museums

Explore London, Bruges, Salzburg, Vienna, Assisi, Pompeii, Capri, Rome, Florence, Paris

Discover Amsterdam, Heidelberg, Lucerne, Innsbruck, Venice, Pisa, Monaco, Nice, Avignon

Visit the Rhine Falls at Schaffhausen, Vaduz, a glassblowing factory in Venice, excavations in Pompeii and the Sistine Chapel in Rome, Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Beaune

View the ancient sites of Rome, the Leaning Tower in Pisa, Avignon's Papal Palace and Pont d' Avignon, Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris

See the Lorelei Rock in Rhine Valley, Benedictine Abbey of Monte Cassino, vineyards of Burgundy

Scenic Cruise through Amsterdam's canals, by private launch to St. Mark's Square in Venice, the Rhine River and to the Isle of Capri

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Ferry across the Channel from Dover to Calais

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Eurostar high-speed train from Paris to London

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Epic Europe road trip across 47 countries

Have you ever wondered what is the most efficient way to visit all the countries in Europe by road? The answer is this epic European road trip that takes you to 47 countries in geographical Europe , and almost all of the European Union, whoa!

Unfortunately, it skips the Faroe Islands, Greenland and Iceland which you can easily do on a roadtrip either on a group tour , or independently.

If you were to drive this amazing road trip across Europe in one go, without stopping and without sleeping, it would take about 364 hours or 16 days to cover the route, and you would drive almost 27,000 kilometers.

But you wouldn’t go on this once in a lifetime European road trip and just drive through, you would want to stop, probably several times every day, to explore some of the most beautiful, heritage-rich, fascinating and delicious parts of the continent. You may even consider hiring a motorhome for your journey so that you can really take your time.

Realistically, we would recommend completing this epic European road trip in probably a year, but 6 months would be enough to do justice to most of the key highlights.

We planned this road trip with a very cool and addictive app (yep, we stayed up till 2am playing with it!) called Roadtrippers which not only lets you plan a road trip but also shows you all the points of interest, accommodation & restaurants, photo spots, attractions, and more on the map. Use our bonus coupon code BTR5QTP for $5 off. Check out this list of gifts for road trippers to get all the gadgets you need.

Epic European road trip by the numbers

Almost 27,000km of roads.
Approximately 364h of driving time without stops.
Over $1,600 in fuel spent.
47 countries, including 25 European Union members, Kosovo (which we count as an independent country despite the lack of recognition by the UN), the 3 countries in the Caucasus, Turkey and Russia, both of which are partially in Europe and mostly in Asia. Only 3 island countries would be missing, Malta, Cyprus and Iceland.
More than 200 UNESCO sites would be within 50km of the itinerary.

In this unforgettable European road trip you will explore well-known but no less amazing cities such as Barcelona , Prague, London and Rome , and other up and coming ones such as Ljubljana, Bruges, Girona , Kiev, Tirana or Tbilisi.

Of the 400 UNESCO listed sites in Europe , this road trip will get you within 50km to more than half of the continent’s most fascinating heritage, from Gaudi’s La Sagrada Familia to Switzerland’s stunning mountain train journeys such as the Glacier Express or lesser known spots in tiny countries such as Andorra .

More standouts include medieval Kotor , Salzburg and Dubrovnik, the Vatican City, Santiago de Compostela’s Cathedral, Brussels’ Grand Place, Budapest Castle, Mostar Old City, Casa Batllo , Lake Ohrid, and many more.

You could add about 100 more UNESCO sites if you take a detour to explore southern Italy and Sicily , central Spain or Germany , a country that is only bordered on this itinerary.

It is also a great road trip for foodie lovers with stops in San Sebastian for pinchos and tapas, in Bologna for parmesan cheese and mortadella, in Lyon for refined French food, Copenhagen for forward-looking Nordic food and in Porto for seafood and codfish.

The route does not just cover mainstream destinations but will also take you to the lesser known parts of the continent such as the tiny country of Liechtenstein (one of the least visited countries in the world despite being located in the middle of Europe), Croatia’s Istria, Romania’s Transilvannia, and historical sites such as Chernobyl.

European road trip essentials 1. Roadtrippers : Create the itinerary and navigate with points of interest marked along the way with Roadtrippers , such a cool app. Get it, it’s a no brainer. 2. Visas : We highly recommend iVisa , they are prompt and professional and offer lots of services. A Schengen visa gives you access to 25 countries, others have their own system, Russia will be the trickiest. 3. Car rental : Our choice is Rentalcars.com which aggregates car rental companies across the world. Make sure you can take the car across the border and check additional insurance and permits. Or buy a car and sell it at the end. 4. Travel insurance : Do not leave the house without, really, don’t. We recommend World Nomads or SafetyWing who include coverage for COVID-19 since August 2020. 5. Accommodation : Use Booking.com they offer free cancellation charge if your plans change. 6. Tours : An efficient way to see cities in a short period of time is to get a day tour. We love and use Getyourguide which allows you to cancel tours up to 24h in advance.

So where does this incredible road trip across all of Europe and the Caucasus take you? Let’s explore the main stops.

1. Dublin, Ireland

Your journey starts in the capital of Ireland, beautiful Dublin. Being the birthplace of Guinness beer, you’ll definitely need to taste the dark stout in one of Dublin’s 1,000 pubs like Temple Bar or The Brazen Head , Ireland’s oldest pub.

If you plan on driving after your visit, just go to the Guinness Storehouse where you can dive into the 250+ year history and have a bite to eat. Jameson Whiskey also has its home in Dublin.

Peer into Ireland’s Emigration history at World Travel Awards winner EPIC to see what it means to be Irish beyond the border. If you have some time left over pop into Dublin Castle which dates back to 1204 and has guided tours. Ireland is also home to many great thinkers such as Oscar Wilde, Bram Stoker and Samuel Beckett and is even one of UNESCO’s Cities of Literature . Visit Trinity College where they all got their start.

2. London, United Kingdom

Next on your European road trip is the capital of the UK, London! With a rich history and loads of activities to take part in, you can experience art at museums like the Tate Modern or The National Gallery , have fun on the London Eye , learn something new at Speaker’s Corner in Hyde Park , have a pub lunch overlooking the river Thames, or try and see the Queen at Buckingham Palace .

If you aren’t for visiting tourist sites like Big Ben , the Tower of London , Westminster Abbey or the bohemian Soho district, you can always try something a little different and experience one of these unique things to do in London like eating jellied eel or take a somber stroll around Highgate Cemetery. Make sure to make a stop at Borough Market for a super good vibe with loads of fresh produce and delicious meals!

3. Amsterdam, Netherlands

Leaving the island and riding north-east, you’ll soon get to friendly Amsterdan in the Netherlands. This bustling city is so much more than hash brownies, tulips and windmills as you’ll experience on a bike after parking your car.

Cruise along the canals at your own pace and visit the best tourist attractions in Amsterdam like Rijksmuseum , Van Gogh Museum , the artsy district of Jordaan, or dine way up high at A’dam Lookout .

A must-visit is Ann Frank’s House , where you will learn how this brave soul lived through a treacherous time. Apart from the multitude of historic sights, Amsterdam is also home to hip and up-and-coming neighbourhoods like gentrified Westergas and creative Zaandam’s Hembrugterrein. Walk the cobbled streets of De Negen Straatjes (‘The Nine Streets’) for some boutique retail therapy.

4. Brussels, Belgium

As the administerial centre of the EU, Belgium’s capital can be viewed as quite a stringent place. Yet when you pass the iconic little boy peeing into the fountain at the Manneken Pis, you get a sense for the city’s lightheartedness. It’s this mix that makes it a fascinating place for all types of tourists.

There is spectacular architecture like the Grand Place , Notre Dame Du Sablon , or the Instagrammable Atomium . See arts and culture at the Musee des Beaux-Arts d’Ixelles or Musee Constantin Meunier and gorgeous nature at Park Malou, Parc Georges Henri or Parc Du Cinquantenaire.

But you cannot leave Brussels without going on a beer tasting tour while diving mouth-first into their famous fries and mussels.

5. Luxembourg

Luxembourg is one of the smallest countries in the world and most of the top places to visit in Luxembourg are all concentrated in the city center. This makes it a great day stop for your European road trip. Start slow by perusing the Old Quarter in Luxembourg City which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site , as the night nears, take in a show at the legendary Philharmonic of Luxembourg .

Then make your way to any of the multitude of castles in the country (there are 130 in total) from Luxembourg Fortress to Vianden Castle . The castles you choose to explore will depend on the amount of time you have and whether you’d like to include a bit of nature on your visit or not.

For nature we suggest the Mullerthal region where you’ll find Schiessentümpel Waterfall. You can even camp there for the night along the river Sûre in your car or spa at Mondorf-les-Bains if that’s more your style.

6. Liechtenstein

While an unlikely candidate, Liechtenstein is actually one of the least visited countries in the world . The main reason is because it’s a landlocked country, sandwiched between Switzerland and Austria, without an airport. This means it’s perfectly reachable by car, great for your European road trip!

A fun fact about Liechtenstein is that it hasn’t had a murder since 2014 and is therefore one of the safest countries in the world. As it’s so small, you can see the entire country in a day from castles like Vaduz , Burg Gutenberg or Obere Burg to jaw-dropping nature (400km network of hiking trails!) and even eat at a Michelin-awarded traditional Restaurant Torkel . This is a popular winter Europe road trip pit stop for ski fanatics.

7. Bern, Switzerland

The city where Einstein started dabbling in physics and the older enclave being awarded UNESCO World Heritage status in 1983, Bern is a thriving city with a deep history and stunning sites. In fact you can visit Einstein’s former residence or the museum constructed in his name .

If you’re a fan of treasure hunts, you could try to find all 11 Renaissance fountains in the centre of Old Bern. Saunter around the Rosengarten , take in the views at Gurten mountain, or see the symbol of Bern (and Toblerone ) at Bärengraben (Bear Pit) or BärenPark (Bear Park).

With a rich culture, Bern has loads of great artsy festivals to take part in year round from the Summer and Winter Jazz Festivals to the Buskers Festival to July’s Gurtenfestival . If you miss the festivals, don’t worry, there’s more art at the Kunstmuseum (Museum of Art) which contains 51,000 pieces! The fascinating Zytglogge , a medieval clock tower with moving puppets, is always a fun stop over.

If you’d like to go beyond the capital and are a fan of skiing or being pampered, I would suggest making a stop at either Andermatt or St. Moritz (stay for the night at Chedi, Andermatt ). Or change your mode of transportation and hop on the Glacier Express which connects St. Moritz with Zermatt and is a truly once in a lifetime experience.

8. Central France

Traveling south from Switzerland (with a possible stop in Geneva before crossing the border), you’ll be cruising the central part of France passing by two exquisite regions: Lyon and Bordeaux.

Lyon is steeped in a 2,000 year history and is the capital of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. It is also considered the foodie capital of France so you should make sure to eat your way around the city.

Witness the Roman Amphithéâtre des Trois Gaules and venture into Vieux (Old) Lyon with the largest renaissance old quarters in Europe. But don’t miss the modern Confluence district on the Presqu’île peninsula with its elegant bistros and upscale apartments.

There are museums of all kinds from fine art at Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon to the Institut Lumière , an ode to the famed brothers who spearheaded the modern cinema. The architecture will leave your jaw agape, so be sure to pass by the Fourvière Basilica and Lyon Cathedral.

Making your way toward the Bay of Biscay you’ll end up in one of the most praised wine regions in the world, Bordeaux. Wine enthusiasts better get a designated driver, because this stretch of your Europe road trip is bound to be the most fueled by alcohol.

The choices of wineries to visit can be a bit overwhelming, so it’s best to first visit the spectacular ode to wine, La Cité du Vin. This is a mammoth 3,000sqm building with a 55m tower that looks like a giant decanter. It has around 10 hours of audiovisual info all about the history and future of the grape. You’ll also be able to get help picking which wineries to visit.

Beyond wine, there are open spaces (Quais de Bordeaux, Jardin Public), shopping streets (Rue Sainte-Catherine), ancient architecture (La Grosse Cloche, Porte Cailhau, Bordeaux Cathedral) and so much more!

Those wanting to stop by Paris should do so after Luxembourg, as this is the quickest route to the capital and you will only be venturing further south from here. Read our Parisian articles to get more insight about the City of Love:

Best Paris Bistros
Autumn In Paris, A Perfect Weekend For Two
Rooftop Bars In Paris With The Ultimate Best Views Of The City
5 Markets In Paris To Bargain-hunt
Adorable Places For A Beautiful Picnic In Paris From Rivers To Gardens
Secret Gardens In Paris To Find Romance And Nature

9. Northern Spain

Reaching the Bay of Biscay with a possible hangover, you’ll surely just want to take it easy on the beach. This is where San Sebastián comes in. Also known as Donostia, San Sebastián is a resort town hidden in Spain’s mountainous Basque Country and is known for Playa de la Concha and Playa de Ondarreta.

Playa means beach, and beach is what you will get, although not the kind of warm beach you find on the Mediteranean! Bring a sweater, even in the summer months San Sebastian can be pretty chilly.

Not only will you find beautifully soft sand, but also picturesque bayfront promenades, cobblestone roads of old town (Parte Vieja), upscale shopping, vibrant pintxo bars and world-class restaurants.

San Sebastian is one of Spain’s foodie capitals along with Barcelona and Madrid and the Basque Country where it is located, has more Michelin-starred restaurants than any other part of the country.

Think three-starred Arzak and Akelarre , one-starred Kokotxa and Mirador de Ulía or famous Nerua in the Guggenheim Bilbao. Or just have a picnic at Miramar Royal Palace ( Palacio de Miramar ) if your wallet is feeling a bit light.

Taking the most epic coastal drive, you’ll enter one of Spain’s most spiritual centres at Santiago de Compostela. This is the end of the famed Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route as well as the capital of northwest Spain’s Galicia region. Legend has it that the apostle St. James was buried in what is today the UNESCO-listed old town.

Even if you aren’t religious, you’ll find a spiritual resonance in the idyllic Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque buildings, particularly the remarkable Pórtico de la Gloria . The Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela , Praza do Obradoiro and Monastery of San Martiño Pinario are all epic and within walking distance.

10. Coastal Portugal

Grab your surfboards because you are entering a country with some of the best waves in the world. Even if you don’t know how, Portugal is a great place to learn how to surf. It’s also a burgeoning place for digital nomads so you’re sure to bump into other European road trippers here on your journey.

The three standout places you’re going to pass on the coastal route are Porto in the north, Coimbra in the center and Lisbon at the south. Porto is known for its dessert wine which you will know as Port. But beyond the sweet aperitif Porto offers stately bridges, the medieval Ribeira (riverside) district with cobbled streets and cafes, and grand designs from baroque São Francisco Church to the palatial Palácio de Bolsa .

Travel down to the coast and you’ll end up at the riverfront city of Coimbra. It is famous for its historic University of Coimbra that houses a baroque library, the Biblioteca Joanina with a gorgeous 18th-century bell tower. You can set foot around the city’s old town to take in the calm atmosphere and visit the 12th-century Romanesque cathedral Sé Velha.

Drive south from the old capital (Coimbra) to the new one, Lisbon. This hilly coastal city has some spectacularly romantic views, particularly at sunset from São Jorge Castle where the pastel-colored buildings blend with the pink and purple hues of the setting sun.

Nature blends seamlessly with historic buildings in Lisbon, so make sure to pass along the Torre de Belém , the Golden Gate-like Ponte 25 de Abril suspension bridge, and the Padrão dos Descobrimentos . Try to take a day trip to the protected Tagus Estuary. You can ride trams throughout the city and then relax on the beaches of Cascais, Costa da Caparica, or Estoril.

11. Southern Spain

Now it’s back into Spain where you’ll witness a very different vibe and even peer over into Africa. The south of Spain is spectacular as you travel through Seville, Gibraltar, Granada, Valencia and finishing in Barcelona.

Seville is the capital of Andalusia and has a rich Moorish heritage which is evident in the colourful tiles, the lobed arches and the iconic Giralda tower .

This is the place to experience the stereotypically Spanish cultural activities – flamenco, tapas and toros (although we strongly oppose bullfighting and you should too). Spring is a particularly festive time to visit with Semana Santa (Holy Week) and the lively Feria de Abril ( Seville Fair ). Or just to stroll along the banks of the Guadalquivir.

Before you leave the area, consider a day trip to Morocco which you can take from Tarifa . Go on a guided tour which is usually cheaper than buying a ferry ticket, and add a new continent, just for the day.

Gibraltar may be geographically located in Spain, but it was actually ceded to Britain in 1713 and remains a British Overseas Territory. This means that while Euros are accepted, the main currency is the British Sterling.

Moorish architecture and the Rock of Gibraltar are the two most famous sites. Europa Point at the most southern tip of Gibraltar is where you can glance into Morocco, an entirely different continent. Try not to visit on a Sunday as most places on Main Street will be closed.

Laying at the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains is Granada, best known for its pristine examples of medieval architecture, particularly the Alhambra from the Nasrid dynasty . UNESCO-listed La Alhambra is massive and needs a full day to explore properly, especially to see the Generalife gardens .

From past to future, you’ll then venture forth to Valencia, known for its City of Arts and Sciences . This futuristic structure, reminiscent of Zaha Hadid’s Heydar Aliyev Center in Azerbaijan or Dongdaemun Design Plaza in Seoul , Contains a planetarium, oceanarium and interactive museum.

As Valencia is a coastal city, you can also set your towel down in one of its beaches including those in the Albufera Park, which is actually a wetlands reserve with a lake and walking trails. This is also a fantastic place to try out authentic paella.

Your last stop over in Spain will be the capital of Catalunya, Barcelona. There is too much to do in Barcelona and we have written about it extensively as it is our Editor-in-Chief’s home.

If you’re looking for things to do in Barcelona on this leg of your European road trip, here is a massive list of articles you can save, from the best of Gaudi to the top wineries to some brilliant ideas for day trips…

The stunning views from Bunkers del Carmel

Barcelona guides:

A local’s guide to one day in Barcelona
Barcelona itinerary – Where a Barcelonian would take you in 4 days
Epic and fabulous, the best things to do in Barcelona
The most unusual things to do in Barcelona – unique activities to cool places
Where to stay in Barcelona – Best areas and luxury boutique hotels
The Best Rooftop Terraces in Barcelona to watch the sunset
Gaudi Barcelona most incredible sights
Guide with Sagrada Familia tickets, sights, history and other info
A local’s guide to seeing Casa Batlló inside and out
A local’s guide to La Casa de les Punxes
Tips to Prepare for your Camp Nou Tour
A local’s tips for visiting Barcelona Bunkers del Carmel

Wineries near Barcelona & Food:

Weekend wine escape from Barcelona – includes full itinerary
Top wineries near Barcelona to visit – Best wine and cava tours
Poblet Monastery in Conca de Barbera: How the church brought back wine
How to make the most of your Familia Torres Winery visit
Visiting Cava Codorniu Spain’s oldest family-run business
Albet i Noya – the pioneer in organic winemaking in Spain
A day out of Barcelona taking the Cava Llopart 1887 Gran Reserva Tour
Learning about Kosher wines at Celler de Capcanes
Disfrutar Restaurant, elBulli’s legacy freshly carried on
Review of Lasarte, Barcelona’s first 3 Michelin star restaurant
Review of ABaC Restaurant Barcelona
Gaig Restaurant Barcelona: Traditional Catalan fine-dining since 1869
The Proximity Food Movement in Barcelona – Beyond Organic

Day trips from Barcelona:

Perfect day trips from Barcelona for everyone as told by a local
Things to do in Sitges where to eat and best beaches
How to get from Barcelona Airport to Sitges? (and from Sitges to Barcelona Airport)
Guide to Siurana, a legendary village on Priorat’s mountains
Day trip to Montserrat from Barcelona by a local
Things to do in Girona + 1 day itinerary

12. Andorra

Just like Luxembourg and Liechtenstein, Andorra is another one of the smallest countries on the planet. Landlocked between Spain and France, it’s a hidden secret that will add some spice to your Europe road trip. The “country in the Pyrenees mountains” is all about beautiful nature in any season.

There are ski slopes to hit in winter, gorgeous hiking trails in summer and a variety of activities for everything in between. Topping the list is the Caldea spa complex that leverages the natural hot springs in the area to provide an entertainment destination with hydrotherapy and wellness in mind.

We have written a complete guide to Andorra where you can explore all of the best things to do from savoring rustic food to a list of all the museums to the best places to go shopping and the top hotels to stay at.

13. Southern France

Crossing the border, you’ll again venture into France, this time exploring the coastal cities along the Gulf of Lion from Languedoc to Provence all the way into Italy.

Start at Montpellier, an underrated city with a rich history, beautiful architecture and bustling boutiques and sidewalk cafés among magnificent squares. It even has its own Arc de Triomphe .

Montpellier’s lively vibe is attributed to some 60,000 students that call it home. Sip some Languedoc-Roussillon wines with delicious Mediterranean-inspired cuisine or climb the 658m Pic Saint-Loup. You may want to explore Toulouse, known as “The Pink City” due to its terra-cotta bricks, as it is another lively and gorgeous destination for a European road trip.

After Montpellier, you can choose to explore the more popular port city of Marseille and Nice along the French Riviera, both in the Provence region, if you like more touristy and cosmopolitan destinations. The former is hailed for the epic Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde and the latter pays homage to native artists Henri Matisse and Marc Chagall .

It’s time to join the rich and famous in another one of the smallest countries in the world, Monaco. In fact, Monaco is the second smallest country after the Vatican and is only 2sqkm. Like Andorra and Liechtenstein, Monaco is a principality, meaning that a monarchy governs, currently ruled by Prince Albert II of the Grimaldi family.

The most well-known area in Monaco is its capital city, Monte-Carlo, synonymous with James Bond, Casinos, F1 and the rich and famous (because of its tax status). Expect a multitude of yachts docked at the ports along this country in the French Riviera housing all the beautiful people of the world.

For more, check out our guide to Monaco .

15. The Vatican

From the second smallest to indeed the smallest country in the world and the headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church which is home to the Pope.

Like Lesotho in South Africa , the Vatican is surrounded by the Italian capital, Rome. So if you’re visiting Rome, the Vatican is a must. Your time at the Vatican will be spent viewing ancient buildings, seeing historic art pieces and taking in the spirituality of Catholicism.

Standouts include Michelangelo’s work on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel , St. Peter’s Basilica which is the world’s largest basilica of Christianity, Renaissance art treasures at the Vatican Museums , Castel Sant’Angelo , Saint Peter’s Square and Gardens of Vatican City .

16. Rome, Italy

Buongiorno, you’ve reached the “beautiful country”! You’ve explored the Vatican and had your spiritual fix, so now it’s time to venture into the capital of Italy, Rome. While it wasn’t built in a day, you can try to see it all in 24 hours but we recommend spending much longer, Rome needs to be enjoyed not rushed.

Ancient landmarks like the Colosseum , the Pantheon , the Roman Forum and the Arch of Constantine should all leave you speechless.

Gaze at the famed Trevi Fountain as you pay homage to Federico Fellini’s La Dolce Vita or “take a little time for yourself…live dangerously” at the Spanish Steps like Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck did in Roman Holiday . Then support the local artists and street vendors at Piazza Navona.

What next?

Eat, eat and eat some more by exploring all the Michelin-starred restaurants of Rome (there are around 20!).

You can then ride directly up into San Marino, which we explore next, or you have the option for going south into Naples and then Sicily to take a detour around the Italian coast and see some of the most famous parts of the country which have recently reached Instagram stardom (Amalfi Coast, Capri, etc.).

The beaches in Favignana, off Sicily

In Sicily you can hike up an active volcano at Mount Etna , explore the best Sicilian food , visit the Godfather filming locations like Savoca , or relax in the quaint towns of Syracuse or Taormina and its Ancient Greek Theater . Here’s an extensive travel guide to Sicily for those who want to set out into the island.

17. San Marino

San Marino is a hilly microstate on and around Mount Titano that’s completely surrounded by north-central Italy. It’s as if time has stood still in this ancient republic, with much of its historic architecture still intact.

The capital, sharing the same name as the microstate, is most well known for its medieval walled old town and narrow cobblestone streets. Once a year in July there’s even a Medieval Days festival which is a spectacle as the entire town dresses up and celebrates their history.

At the top of Titano’s peaks sits The Three Towers which date back to the 11th century and are great viewpoints. If you have a drone, this would be the place to fly it!

You may want to pop into foodie heaven Emilia-Romagna or Venice to see the iconic canals and the colorful glass island of Murano before moving onto Slovenia.

18. Ljubljana, Slovenia

Well done, you’ve made it into central Europe!

Start in Slovenia, a really beautiful country known for its mountains, ski resorts and lakes. Slovenia’s capital Ljubljana (say “loo-blee-ana”) is a university city with epic green spaces. Tivoli Park is the first of these spaces that you’ll want to explore. It’s a well manicured park where you can take a break and wander to your heart’s content.

Cross over the iconic Tromostovje (Triple Bridge) and visit a few of the outdoor cafes that dot the Ljubljanica River. Then get cultured at one of the many museums like the National Museum of Slovenia or the Museum of Modern Art .

55km north-west from the capital is the epic Lake Bled, the iconic blue lake with Bled island at its center that houses the Pilgrimage Church of the Assumption of Mary (Cerkev Marijinega vnebovzetja). This is closer to the Austrian border though, so you may want to visit it later in your journey as you’re now going down to Croatia.

19. Zagreb & Split, Croatia

While Croatia is quite large, you’ll be sticking to the south-west so that you can easily make it into Bosnia & Herzegovina and then Montenegro. This area is also the most well-catered for tourists due to its gorgeous beaches.

Starting in the capital of Zagreb, you’ll get to stretch your feet as you explore the quaint Tkalčićeva Street with its outdoor cafes and car-free Jelačić Square in Lower Town which also has museums, shops and parks. Upper Town is more focused on Austro-Hungarian architecture like Zagreb Cathedral and St. Mark’s Church.

Quirkier travelers can visit the Museum of Broken Relationships which is dedicated to breakups. Make sure to get a licitar, a traditional honey dough cookie in the shape of a heart and is Zagreb’s symbol. There’s no real to-do in Zagreb so let your feet guide you.

Moving onto the more touristy sites, you’ll venture on down to the coastal cities of Zadar and Split. Zadar, on the Dalmatian coast, is most well known for its Roman and Venetian ruins such as St. Anastasia’s Cathedral and the Church of St. Donatus.

Split on the eastern shore of the Adriatic Sea has some really beautiful beaches that get super packed in summer. The entire city center is like visiting a giant Roman palace, still going strong after 1700 years with additions and restorations. Game of Thrones fans will know all about Diocletian’s Palace, which is also UNESCO listed .

20. Mostar & Sarajevo, Bosnia & Herzegovina

Moving onto your next country in the Balkans, Bosnia & Herzegovina came into the public eye in the 90s due to the Bosnian War. Today it’s a lively off-the-beaten track destination that is safe for visitors to soak in the diverse culture.

Unlike tourist-heavy Croatia, Bosnia & Herzegovina is yet to have a tourist boom and therefore makes for a great destination for those who like a more intimate experience.

You can start your journey in Mostar before heading into the capital of Sarajevo. Mostar is a quaint city that’s known for its iconic UNESCO-listed Stari Most (Old Bridge) surrounded by mountains and greenery. Explore the alleyways on foot and find some hidden gems before walking up the hills for some panoramic views.

Previously war-torn Sarajevo is now completely restored to its former glory where east meets west – think Vienna paired up with Istanbul. While not too touristy, it still caters for foreigners with information booths and guides to the many churches, mosques, museums, amazing cafes and vibrant nightlife.

Stroll through the cobbled streets of Baščaršija and look out for the 100 “Sarajevo Roses” which commemorate those who lost their lives in the war. A walking tour is a must! And you should definitely educate yourself on the Bosnian War before heading into the country. Read up more about it here .

21. Kotor, Montenegro

The view on the way up to Kotor fortress

Back to the coast, you’ll head to the south of gorgeous Montenegro . This is the best place to go in the Balkans for sun, sand and sea as it’s way less packed than neighbouring Croatia.

The quaint UNESCO-listed fortified city of Kotor is a great place to have a moment of respite as you wander through the cobblestone roads or perhaps walk up to St. George Fortress for a spectacular view of the idyllic bay below.

You could also choose to explore some of the many picture perfect beaches of Montenegro , take a day trip to the uber luxurious and iconic Aman Sveti Stefan , or make your way to the humble oceanside towns of Rose, Perast or Ulcinj. Montenegro also has a very unique local cuisine which is always fresh and super delicious.

22. Tirana, Albania

Similar to Bosnia and Herzegovina, Albania has a difficult and tumultuous past. After the fall of long term and extremely paranoid dictator, Enver Hoxha, the country has tried to rebuild itself as a center for arts and the freedom of expression.

You’ll see graffiti all around the country, particularly in the capital of Tirana, where it is encouraged to turn the dreary blocklike buildings into a sign of hope for the future.

The Bunk’Art museums in Tirana are a perfect example of this change, where underground bunkers built by the Hoxha regime were converted into exhibition and learning spaces.

Beyond the beautiful Tirana, there is so much to see in Albania, from idyllic Albanian beaches to gorgeous castles (look for Rozafa, Prezë and Kruje Castles), or ancient architecture in Berat , Durres and the Greek ruins at Archeological Park of Apollonia – a UNESCO heritage site .

The other end of Mirror Beach in Albania

Need some more help? I have written articles on fun facts about Albania , the best food in Albania , as well as a complete travel guide to Albania and things to do in Tirana .

23. Ohrid, North Macedonia

St. John the Theologian Church on Lake Ohrid

Before venturing into the Land of the Gods, you’ll be making a stop at the sleepy resort city of Ohrid, Macedonia. You’ll come back to the capital of Macedonia, Skopje, a bit later in the journey.

This is your chance to completely relax from the frantic sightseeing and driving – wine glass in hand, platter of cheese and cold cuts in front of you, while gazing deep into the vast expanse of UNESCO-listed Lake Ohrid .

If you can get off the view, take a stroll in Old Town, a boat tour around the lake or walk along the ancient Somoil’s Fortress and picturesque St. John the Theologian Church for more epic views.

24. Thessaloniki, Greece

Thessaloniki Ekklisia Agios Pavlos Church

Cruising into Greece, you’re going to stay in the north, stopping halfway at Thessaloniki. This port city, straddling the Thermaic Gulf of the Aegean Sea, is a glimpse into the country’s past.

You can see Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman remains, particularly if you venture into the upper town of Ano Poli . While parts of the city were destroyed in the Great Fire of 1917 , some ruins remain like Roman Emperor Galerius’ 4th-century palace. Munch on local street food koulouri Thessalonikis and pop open a local wine from the nearby Naousa appellation .

25. Istanbul & Ankara, Turkey

You’re now on one of the longest stretches on your trip which is from Greece through Turkey and onto Georgia. You can space out your long drive by stopping first at energetic Istanbul and then in Ankara, the cosmopolitan capital.

Istanbul is the confluence of East meets West, of Europe and Asia, all in one. The fantastically fascinating Old City will give you a glimpse into the past.

Explore the Sultanahmet district which houses the Roman-era Hippodrome (think chariot races), Egyptian obelisks, the epic Blue Mosque and the jaw-droppingly beautiful Byzantine Hagia Sophia . Don’t miss the Grand Bazar for some local delights.

Ankara is more about the present and has a thriving performing arts scene. This is your chance to dress up and go to the Opera, Ballet or see a show at the Presidential Symphony Orchestra . Before the show make sure to visit the grand Anıtkabir , the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the first President of the Republic of Turkey.

26. Tbilisi, Georgia

After a very long drive through the Turkish countryside, you’ll finally cross the border to Georgia, which was once part of the Soviet republic. Today, due to providing 365-day visas on arrival, Georgia has become a digital nomad hotspot if you need to get some work done or meet like-minded travelers.

Georgia is famous for its black sand beaches, the quaint Caucasus Mountain villages and Vardzia, a sprawling cave monastery dating to the 12th century.

Yet you’ll be stopping in the capital landlocked city of Tbilisi where you can wander through the maze-like cobblestoned roads of old town or hike up the scenic Narikala Fortress to see the blend of art nouveau buildings, Soviet Modernist structures and Eastern Orthodox churches.

27. Sheki & Baku, Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan, known as the Land of Fire and the birthplace of crude oil, is a place where East meets West, where Asia and Europe are both present but do not dominate, at once modern and a well-preserved history.

Make a culinary pitstop in Sheki, a small but gorgeous historic town on the ancient Silk Road route. You can taste some of the best local Azerbaijani food like piti and halva in a Caravanserai before moving onto the capital.

In Baku you will experience some of the most luxurious hotels in Azerbaijan like the Fairmont Baku Flame Towers , modern architecture like Zaha Hadid’s Heydar Aliyev Center , and ancient natural wonders like the volcanoes.

Little known fact about Azerbaijan , it has 45% of the world’s mud volcanoes! For a closer look, read my article on the top things to do in Baku and Azerbaijan .

28. Yerevan, Armenia

Yerevan, Armenia’s capital, is your next stop on this epic European road trip. The imposing Soviet-era architecture will astound you and its history will amaze. Make a stop at the Matenadaran library , where you will find thousands of ancient Greek and Armenian manuscripts.

Then head over to the vibrant Republic Square to watch the musical water fountains. Learn a bit more about Armenia’s past at the History Museum of Armenia with artefacts dating back to 3500 BC.

Note on feasibility : The itinerary considers that you return to Georgia from Armenia and then enter Russia by crossing the disputed territory of Abkhazia, however, at the time of writing, that is not possible. Instead, you should leave Georgia to the north at Kazbegi and enter Russia at Vladikavkaz and then retake the route. Thank you to Alastair Gill for pointing this out.

29. Sochi, Russia

As you may know, Russia is absolutely massive. In fact, at 17 million sqkm it’s the largest country in the world , by far.

To put it in perspective, the 2nd largest country, Canada, stands at just under 10 million sqkm. In order to fit Russia into your road trip of Europe, you can travel to Sochi, along the Black Sea and far from the capital Moscow . Sochi is around the same distance between Armenia and the Ukraine.

You may know Sochi best as the home to the 2014 Winter Olympics, but in summer it’s also a popular beach resort destination. The 1,937sqkm Forested Sochi National Park is a must for nature lovers. Interested in ditching the car and catching the train? I’d definitely recommend either the Golden Eagle on a once in a lifetime trans-Siberian journey .

Note on safety and feasibility of this portion : At the time of writing, the itinerary passes through the disputed territory of Crimea. Entering Crimea from Russia is possible but, if you plan to continue driving into Ukraine, as shown in this itinerary, you would be entering Ukraine illegally. Likewise, crossing from Russia into Ukraine is currently difficult given the security situation. The safest and easiest way to drive from Russia into Ukraine involves driving farther north on the border between the two, possibly near Kharkiv or Sunny and then driving down to Odessa to continue with the itinerary. Thank you to Alastair Gill, Igor Gakalo and Justin Golden for share their experience.

30. Odessa & Kiev, Ukraine

Traveling along the Black Sea, you’ll cross the border over into the port city of Odessa. You’ll get to relax on one of the many beaches or watch a performance at the Odessa Opera and Ballet Theater.

Film fanatics will tick an activity off their bucket list as they climb the iconic Potemkin Stairs, immortalized in The Battleship Potemkin . Saunter along Primorsky Boulevard with monuments and mansions.

Next up is Kiev, an important industrial, scientific, educational and cultural center of Eastern Europe. It’s a pedestrian-friendly city with amazing public transport and a metro. So you can visit all the most beautiful monuments quite easily.

Marvel at Eastern Orthodox Christianity’s most important landmark Pechersk Lavra , which is a complex of churches, bell towers and subterranean caves and contains a host of UNESCO heritage sites . Look up to see notable monuments like Maidan Nezalezhnosti or The Motherland Monument and then finish with a stroll in Hryshko National Botanical Garden .

Before crossing the border to Minsk, you should make a stop in Chernobyl, an historical destination where you can learn about humanity’s flaws, particularly the nuclear power plant accident from 1986 .

You will need to go on a tour of the abandoned city in a hazmat suit, but it is safe due to stringent precautions. It is a sobering experience and definitely one that will stay with you. Learn more about Chernobyl from the recent HBO docuseries.

31. Chișinău, Moldova

Adding Moldova to your European road trip will have you taking a bit of a detour. Instead of going straight from Odessa in the south to Kiev up north, you can make a pit stop in Chișinău between the two.

The capital of Moldova is an up and coming destination, but still one of the least visited in Europe . It’s a pedestrian-friendly city where you can soak up the local culture at Piata Centrala, Stephan the Great Central Park or Valea Morilor Park. There are also a few landmarks to spot like the neoclassical Nativity Cathedral or the dome-topped Chișinău’s Cathedral Park.

32. Minsk, Belarus

Belarus is definitely not one of the most sought after European road trip destinations, but it surely has its own charm. At first it may seem like there is not much to do in the capital city of Minsk, but the attractions could keep you busy for about 2-3 days.

Like most post Soviet Union countries, one of the top things to do in Minsk is to admire the Soviet architecture, particularly walking along Independence Avenue.

Main structures include the Central Post Office , Palace of the Republic , Nyamiha Shopping Center, the National Academic Bolshoi Opera and Ballet Theatre and even an incredible Soviet bas-relief above a KFC.

There’s also a quaint Old Town, shopping at a GUM (department) store, visiting Mir and Nesvizh Castles , and checking out the hip cafes and street art near trendy Kastrychnitskaya street.

33. Vilnius, Lithuania

Another city where you can find astounding architecture is Lithuania’s capital Vilnius , a UNESCO heritage center . Architectural styles from all periods can be found here. And did you know you can go on a hot air balloon ride over the city? Amazing.

Strolling along the cobblestoned streets of Old Town you’ll come across the beautiful baroque Gate of Dawn and Basilian Monastery, neoclassical Vilnius Cathedral and Gothic St. Anne’s Church (and so so much more!).

Get your green fix at Bernardine Park , open air museum Europos Parkas or atop the Hill of Three Crosses for panoramic views. Shop local at Hall Market and explore the multitude of museums.

34. Riga, Latvia

From one capital to the next, this time you’ll be visiting Latvia’s Riga, the largest city in the three Baltic states.

You may be a bit tired of perusing all the amazing buildings of Vilnius, and Riga is just the right place as it’s a youthful city with a pumping nightlife, hipster eateries and thriving alternative scene. Maybe you’ll take home a bottle of Riga Black Balsam , a bitter but slightly sweet liqueur made in oak barrels.

Before partying it up, take in the old centre of Vecrīga, with its maze-like streets filled with restaurants, museums and nightspots, Medieval churches and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

But of course, there is more than enough architecture too to keep you happy from the vibrant House of the Blackheads to the world’s largest collection of Art Nouveau buildings, particularly those by “Riga’s Gaudí”, Mikhail Eisenstein .

35. Tallinn, Estonia

Your final Baltic State before crossing over to Northern Europe is another cultural hub right on the Black Sea. Tallinn is for creatives.

Starting at Telliskivi Loomelinnak (Creative City) where you’ll find Fotografiska (home to fine-art photography), venture onto PROTO Invention Factory for a look into the history of inventions and then end off at Kumu Art Museum which won European Museum of the Year in 2008.

Cafe hop as you pass ancient monuments like Kiek in de Kök , Gothic-structured Town Hall or 13th-century St. Nicholas Church.

36. Helsinki & Rovaniemi, Finland

Take the 2 hour ferry ride across the Gulf of Finland where you’ll end up in its capital, Helsinki. You can continue your cultural adventure by taking a walk along the Mannerheimintie, with its multitude of institutions like the National Museum , grand Parliament House and Kiasma contemporary art museum.

Temppeliaukio Church is out of this world (think Auroville in Pondicherry or Iglesia El Rosario in El Salvador ) and Suomenlinna , a giant maritime fortress spread across seven islands, is man-made marvel. Red-bricked Uspenski Cathedral is also stunning.

In Helsinki, take the option of a ferry ride to St. Petersburg and avail of the 3 day free visa option to explore Russia’s grandest city.

You wouldn’t want to leave Finland without making a trip to Rovaniemi. Why? Because it’s the official home of Santa Claus!

That’s right, the capital of Lapland is also home to one of the most beloved figures. There’s Santa Claus Village , SantaPark , Santa Claus Office and even Santa Claus Reindeer where you can meet the friendly helpers. Beyond all things Santa there is also lots to do from Arktikum Science Museum , Rovaniemi Art Museum , and of course Angry Birds Park !

Rovaniemi is also your chance to experience an authentic Finnish sauna, munch of some pulla (Finnish cardamom bread), and glimpse the Northern Lights.

37. Stockholm, Sweden

Journey down the coast of Sweden along the Gulf of Bothnia all the way down to the Baltic Sea where you’ll find the capital, Stockholm. What many travelers to Stockholm might not know is that the capital city actually encompasses 14 islands with over 50 bridges. So the best way to see it all is to hop on the various ferries or sightseeing boats between the islands.

Like most large European cities, Stockholm has its own old town called Gamla Stan which stands out for its cobblestone streets and ochre-colored buildings.

Notable sites here include the 13th-century Storkyrkan Cathedral (make sure to go inside), the Swedish monarch abode Kungliga Slottet Royal Palace and the Nobel Museum (about the history of the Nobel Prize ).

Get your Mama Mia on at the ABBA Museum , learn about all things nautical at the acclaimed Vasa Museum , or be more contemporary at Moderna Museet . Fashionista’s shouldn’t miss a visit to Södermalm (home to Greta Garbo) for “fika” (Swedish coffee break), boutique shopping, and massive photography gallery, Fotografiska .

38. Oslo, Norway

Take in the gorgeous scenic landscapes of Swedish as you travel across the country into Norway. Shortly after crossing the border, you’ll arrive at the capital of Oslo.

Here you’ll find vast green spaces and plenty of museums to explore. Nature is a key part of life in Oslo, so this is a great chance to get out and moving as you won’t want to miss the epic scenery of the forests, walking trails and mountains – all easily accessible by public transport if you want to take a break from driving.

Take a coastal stroll on the Bygdøy Peninsula which has, apart from astounding natural scenery, 5 national museums including the Viking Museum . Saunter around Frogner Park which has some 212 sculptures from artist Gustav Vigeland (as well as an eponymous museum ).

Another major artist with a dedicated museum is Edvard Munch . Learn all about sliding down snow at the Holmenkollen Ski Museum & Tower or see a show at Oslo Opera House . Make your journey complete with a tranquil trip around the Oslofjord.

We would also recommend you add 3 more weeks to your trip and explore the rest of Norway. Check out this website with 18 scenic routes in Norway .

39. Copenhagen, Denmark

Your epic European road trip continues back into Sweden with an extensive leg of the journey down into Malmö (where you should try their famed kebabs), crossing the epic Øresund Bridge and ending up in Denmark’s capital of Copenhagen. One glimpse at this beautiful city and you’ll see where famed fairytale author Hans Christian Andersen got his inspiration.

Copenhagen has something for literally anyone from amusement parks ( Tivoli Gardens ) to trendy pedestrian streets (Strøget) to Michelin-starred cuisine (23 stars to 16 restaurants in 2020) to arts and culture galore. A short 10km ride to Lyngby-Taarbæk Kommune you’ll find the oldest amusement park in the world called Dyrehavsbakken (“The Deer Pasture’s Hill”), also known as Bakken (“The Hill”).

Rent a bike and do as locals do, explore different areas from Christiania, an old commune, the historic waterfront of Nyhavn and of course the Little Mermaid statue.

If you can, leave your car in Copenhagen and traverse the waters into the tiny island territory of the Faroe Islands – where the roofs are covered in grass , the sheep outnumber the people and the views are epic. This might inspire you to take a trip…

40. North and East Germany

Catch another ferry from Lolland in Denmark to Fehmarn in Germany. The Fehmarn Belt connecting these two destinations through an 18km underwater tunnel has also been approved , so keep on the lookout for its opening.

You will be traveling the North of Germany through such cities as Hamberg, Bremen, Münster, Dortmund, down to the tip of the Rhine, then onward through several states from Lower Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt and Brandenburg which encompasses the capital of Berlin.

Here is where startup owners mingle with vegans, artists and hipsters, Berlin is the center of art and creativity in Germany and well worth a couple of days.

While we only border Germany, you can feel free to venture into the country and explore as much or as little as you would like. Cruise straight through as fast as you can on the Autobahn blaring Kraftwerk ,enjoy sausages and beer and just take it all in.

41. Warsaw & Wrocław, Poland

After speeding on the Autobahn and living it up in hedonistic Berlin, it’s time to take it a bit slow as you enter Poland’s capital of Warsaw.

Warsaw is a city to reflect on the atrocities of the Nazi invasion and the aftermath of World War II by visiting the many monuments dedicated to the mass destruction of the city and the people in it. Yet, like a flower through the cracks, the city has been restored to its former glory – a far cry from the rubble of the 1940s.

Old Town and Łazienki Park are particularly beautiful and the many museums will keep you intrigued, like POLIN , Warsaw Uprising Museum or the Copernicus Science Centre (Poland is the birthplace of the famed mathematician who found the sun to be the centre of our universe). Make a pit stop at Wrocław on the Oder River, particularly the Market Square for some more culture, art and elegant architecture.

42. Prague, Czech Republic

Crossing over to the center of the Czech Republic, Prague is a beautiful city to go around on foot while exploring the unique baroque buildings, Gothic churches and the stunning medieval Astronomical Clock.

It’s a place where art and creativity is thriving from puppetry to jazz, and was also home to writer Franz Kafka (he used to live in Golden Lane) and father of modern psychoanalysis Sigmund Freud . There’s even a statue of him hanging from a pole in Old Town.

Sip some world famous Czech pivo (beer) while gazing at the Vltava river or go the full nine yards by taking a tour of the Czech Beer Museum Tour where you can bottle your own beer. Don’t forget to taste some pork knuckle and pickled cheese before exploring the thriving nightlife.

43. Salzburg & Vienna, Austria

Cross yet another border and you’ll be in the birthplace of Mozart , Salzburg. It is known for having the best-preserved baroque architecture in the old town centre in Europe, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site . If you have time visit The Eagles Nest in nearby Berchtesgaden, Germany for an amazing hike and epic views of the Bavarian Alps.

Vienna is the next stop on your epic road trip of Europe, home to the United Nations and the cultural, economic and political center of Austria. It’s known as one of the most livable cities in the world and has a rich history of artists, intellectuals, culture and music. So there will be more than enough to keep you busy for a few days.

44. Bratislava, Slovakia

Right on the border of both Austria and Hungary is Slovakia’s capital, Bratislava. So it’s an easy choice to stop here between the two countries.

Get your hiking shoes because this beautiful city has many nature trails on offer through vineyards, the Little Carpathian mountains, and overlooking the breathtaking Danube river. From fairytale castles ( Bratislava & Devin) to sky blue cathedrals to the revitalised Eurovea district , there is surprisingly a lot to take in when visiting Bratislava.

45. Budapest, Hungary

Roll along the north of Hungary until you reach the Danube, which bisects Hungary’s capital Budapest. Interesting fact about Budapest is that it’s actually not one, but rather 3 unified cities.

They are Buda and Óbuda on the west bank of the Danube and Pest on the east bank. Many consider Budapest to be one of the most beautiful cities in Europe and will be a surprising standout of your Europe road trip.

If you don’t know where to start in this gem, try the UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Buda Castle Quarter and Andrássy Avenue. Peruse the gorgeous Parliament Building along the banks of the Danube, or Heroes’ Square and St. Stephen’s Basilica before descending into the infamous Faust Wine Cellars under Buda Castle. Then relax your muscles with a dip in the Széchenyi Thermal Baths or the Gellért Baths .

46. Transylvania and Bucharest, Romania

While Transylvania is usually associated with Dracula, Gothic fortresses and churches and baroque buildings, it’s not as spooky as Bram Stoker makes it out to be.

Most of your Transylvania itinerary will be centred around the castles like Bran , Peleș and Corvin , the UNESCO World Heritage Site of colorful Sighișoara and exploring the Turda Salt Mine are equally impressive.

But it is a rather large region of around 102,834 sqkm, so there’s a lot to cover. Hop over to the trendy student area of Cluj-Napoca for a taste of Romanian cool, explore the medieval walls and towers of Sibiu on foot or ski at Poiană Brașov.

Keep going south-east until you reach the capital of Bucharest. Once home to Vlad the Impaler and communist despot Nicolae Ceaușescu , it’s now in a boom with highrise towers and sleek glass facades.

There is still a glimpse of the past among the newer lofty towers. Bucharest has the world’s biggest parliamentary building Palace of Parliament standing at 365,000 sqm and 1,100 rooms. Take a romantic stroll at Cișmigiu Gardens, the cobblestone streets of Lipscani (Old Town) and glimpse a replica of Paris’s Arcul de Triumf, an ode to its former nickname “Paris of the East”.

47. Sofia, Bulgaria

Walking through the capital of the Balkan nation of Bulgaria is like taking a time machine back to almost 2,000 years ago.

Witness Sofia’s history of outside occupation through the Greek, Roman, Ottoman and Soviet landmarks. The city’s history is deep and complicated where mosques have been converted into churches and monolithic soviet structures overshadow newly formed boulevards.

While you can’t dip in, the Central Mineral Baths is a very photogenic spot with an informative museum. Adventurous travelers can ascend the 2,200m Vitosha Mountain.

48. Skopje, North Macedonia

Coming back into North Macedonia, this time you’ll be visiting Skopje, the country’s capital and largest city.

While being the center of politics, culture, economics, and academics, it is an ancient city dating back to 4000 BC with Neolithic remains at the old Kale Fortress. Probably the best thing to do in Skopje is to stroll along the Vardar river and do some quirky architecture and statue spotting (trust us there is a lot of that!).

After all the walking, get some fuel at the old bazaar where you can also delve more into the culture of Skopje and visit the fort at the top of the hill. Then continue on to find some really quirky brutalist architecture and sip some thick coffee at the hipster Debar Maalo area.

49. Pristina, Kosovo

National Library of Kosovo Wiki Arben Llapashtica (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Pristina might not be the most popular or well-known city in Europe, but once you start strategizing a trip here, you’ll notice that there is indeed a lot to do.

One unique fact about Albania concerns Kosovo where 92.9% of the population is actually ethnic Albanian and Muslim.

This ethnic differentiation between Muslim Kosovar people and the rest of Orthodox Serbia, the official UN country Kosovo belongs to has been the focus of tension for decades and tragically ended in the terrible Kosovo War .

Sadly, because Kosovo has not been recognised as an independent country by the UN, these tensions continue and mean that parts of the country are under the supervision of the United Nations Peacekeeping Forces . But fret not, traveling in Kosovo is very safe and attacks are rare.

Back to pristina, many of the things to do in the capital are interlinked with Albanian culture. For example, you can taste some Albanian Rakia , see sculptures of Skanderbeg like the ones in Tirana , and pay homage to the devout spiritual leader at the Cathedral of Saint Mother Teresa (who was ethnically Albanian).

You can socialise over a thick Turkish coffee, witness the medieval UNESCO Site in Gračanica or see one of the world’s ugliest buildings – the Kosovo National Library .

To truly enjoy the most beautiful parts of Kosovo, take a detour to Peje and Prizren, two beautiful mountain villages where traditional architecture and rich Ottoman heritage have been preserved, they are real gems.

50. Belgrade, Serbia

You’ve been around the continent and visited almost every country and your final epic European road trip destination is Serbia’s capital, Belgrade.

Belgrade is one of the oldest cities in Europe and has a tumultuous past of war and upheaval. It’s possibly this turbulent past that’s created it’s free-spirited present, particularly on the Bohemian avenue of Skardarlija and in the frequent splavovi (party boats) along the Danube and Sava. You can end your monumental road trip of Europe with a bang in Belgrade by partying the night away. After sobering up, take in your final views from the Beogradska Tvrđava fortress , stroll around in deep thought at what you’ve accomplished at Kalemegdan Park and then jump into the water at Ada Ciganlija island.

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Europe Road Trip – 24 Incredible Routes

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The Best Road Trips in Europe

Europe is perfect for an epic road trip! From the rolling fields of Tuscany and the soaring mountains of the Sierra Nevada to the beaches of the South of France and the mighty Alps, you can find a European road trip route to suit your taste and travel style.

Whether you’re road tripping in Europe for a week, a month, or a year, our top Europe road trip itinerary ideas will give you plenty of inspiration to get on the road.

We have lived on the road in Europe for over five years, and in our Europe trip planner, we share our top routes and itineraries, ideas about what do to and see, and accommodation recommendations. If you’ve got wheels there’s a European road trip here for you!

Europe Road Trip Planner

We have traveled every single one of these European roads in and on a variety of vehicles! Whether you ride a motorbike, drive Europe by car or you’re traveling in a motorhome or RV, you’ll find some of the best European road trip ideas here.

If you’re on a flying visit and or want a 3 month Europe road trip , we have the best Europe road trip itineraries for you. Our road trip planner Europe includes specific road trip routes, amazing hotel recommendations, and insider travel tips to help you plan a driving holiday in Europe.

RELATED POST: Why We Think These Are the Best Driving Roads in Europe

Are you planning to rent a car in Europe? As one of the largest car hire aggregator companies in the world, we recommend Rentalcars.com because they have massive purchasing power which enables them to secure the best rental prices, which benefits you when you’re planning a road trip through Europe.

For a real adventure, hire a motorhome or campervan in Europe. We recommend Motorhome Republic for their large range of fully equipped vehicles, competitive pricing, and great customer service. Use the Park4Night app to find overnight spots and campsites, and sleep on a high mountain pass, next to a beautiful lake, or in a wildflower meadow.

Europe Road Trip Map

Make sure you have travel insurance you can trust when visiting Europe . We recommend True Traveller for their 5-star TrustPilot reviews, variety of cover options, best activities cover as standard, great prices, and excellent service.

Get the Travel Guides
Lonely Planet Austria
Fodor’s Vienna and the Best of Austria
DK Eyewitness Austria
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Vienna to Innsbruck Road Trip

Vienna – graz – hallstatt – salzburg – zell am see – mayrhofen – innsbruck.

Distance: 615km
Duration: 10-14 days
Drive Time: 9 hours
When: May – October

We recommend starting your two week Austrian road trip in Vienna and concluding the itinerary in Innsbruck.

As you leave Vienna, beautiful and quaint Austrian towns and villages will greet you as you travel south toward the foodie city of Graz, the next major stop on your Austrian itinerary. From here, it’s north to Hallstatt, a small, alpine village situated on the western shores of Hallstätter See, also known as Hallstatt Lake, that offers iconic views and outdoor experiences.

Next up is Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We recommend leaving enough time in your itinerary to explore the Baroque architecture of the city and visit the Salzburg Fortress for stunning panoramic views. From Salzburg, head to Zell am See, a charming mountain town surrounded by the unforgettable mountain peaks of the Alps.

Zell am See is the perfect spot from which to drive the spectacular Glossglockner high alpine pass, a mountain road that twists and bends itself along the Alps mountains, providing panoramic scenery and an unforgettable experience.

Your journey will continue on to Mayrhofen, a popular skiing destination known for its vibrant nightlife, unrivaled winter sports, and stunning alpine scenery.

Finally, finish your Austria road trip in Innsbruck, the capital of the Tyrol region. This Austrian city is surrounded by breathtaking mountains and is home to several impressive landmarks. Innsbruck is the perfect place to end your road trip and reflect on the stunning beauty of Austria.

Driving the gorgeous mountain roads, when you feel like you’re on top of the world!
Listening to Mozart in Salzburg, his birthplace and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Walking out 1,48 feet onto the Hallstatt World Heritage Skywalk for breathtaking views of the Hallstätter See.

Where to Stay

Vienna ⇒ Jaz in the City Vienna for its city center location, modern interior, and funky bar.

Salzburg ⇒ Altstadthotel Wolf-Dietrich for its old town setting, luxury spa, and fantastic breakfast.

Innsbruck ⇒ Hotel Grauer Bär for its perfect downtown location, light and stylish rooms, and excellent customer service.

snow capped mountains with wooden huts and green pastures in the foreground

Lonely Planet France
DK Eyewitness Road Trips France
Fodor’s Essential France
France Travel Guide
France Road Trip – 13 Amazing Itineraries
South of France Road Trip: Route, Highlights & Tips
Route Napoleon: A Historic French Road Trip
Normandy Road Trip: Ultimate 7 Day Itinerary
Motorhoming in France: Your Complete Touring Guide
Driving to France from UK: Absolutely Everything You Need to Know
Route des Grandes Alpes: An Epic French Road Trip

Loire Valley Road Trip

Orleans – Blois – Tours – Angers – Nantes

Distance: 350km
Duration: 1 week
Drive Time: 6 hours
When: year-round

Centre-Val de Loire is a landlocked region, located to the southwest of the French capital Paris. As the name suggests this region is all about the magnificent river Loire. Just four to five hours from Calais to the capital of Orleans, and three from Paris, this region is a popular holiday region and makes an ideal destination for a road trip.

This is a real France bucket list trip. Fine historical cities and towns, many of which stand on the banks of the Loire, offer superb Renaissance religious buildings and architecture and of course, the fabulous and extravagant chateaux the region is best known for.

Follow this Loire Valley road trip between famous cities and marvel at the natural wonders, opulent architecture, charming towns, and breathtaking castles of one of France’s best-loved regions.

You’ll visit the many chateaux on the route, including the famous Chateau de Chambord and Chateau de Villandry, and explore the Loire’s historic towns, learning about French history, architecture, and culture and you go.

Discover Joan of Arc’s legacy in Orleans and take a ride on a giant machine elephant in Nantes as you take in the beautiful Loire landscape.

Taking a vineyard tour to taste the delicious white wines, like Vouvray, Pouilly-Fume, and Sancerre, which are produced here.
Visiting the world-famous Chateau Chenonceau, the only castle on the Loire built by women.
Watching the iconic steampunk elephant strutt its stuff at Machines de L’Ile on the Ile de Nantes, an urban island in the Loire river.

Orléans ⇒ Empreinte Hotel & Spa for its riverbank location, beautiful bathrooms, and private spa.

Tours ⇒ Château Belmont for its wonderful grounds, stylish bedrooms, and excellent restaurant.

Nantes ⇒ Okko Hotels Nantes Château for its city center location, cool decor, and private parking.

Fine French chateau with turretssurrounded by lush grass and foliage

Pyrenees Road Trip

Lourdes – cauterets – gavarnie – arreau – bagnares-de-luchon.

Distance: 1095km
Drive Time: 3 hours
When: May – September

This is a Pyrenees road trip and hiking tour all in one. With four easy-to-moderate classic Hautes-Pyrenees hikes en route plus an extra in Spain just over the border and some of the most spectacular mountains on the map of Europe at your feet, this is an amazing route.

One of our go-to happy places, get our detailed seven day Pyrenees hiking tour guide, including an interactive map of hikes and the suggested route.

Taking a dip in the crystal clear waters of the beautiful Lac de Gaube on a hot summer’s day.
Braving the nail-biting drive up the Pic du Midi and the incredible views from the Col du Tourmalet.
Standing at the top of Pic de la Pahule with the entire Pyrenees mountain range at your feet.

Lourdes ⇒ Villa L’Orante for its commanding views, beautiful bathrooms, and delicious homemade breakfasts.

Gavarnie ⇒ Hotel Le Taillon for its location, views, and hearty mountain food.

Bagnares-de-Luchon ⇒ Le Castel d’Alti for its elegant decor, heated jacuzzi and pool, and live music in the bar.

South of France Road Trip

Lyon – st croix du verdon – aups – cassis – aix-en-provence – bezier – carcassonne – toulouse.

Distance: 1030km
Duration: 2-3 weeks
Drive Time: 15 hours
When: avoid July and August

A road trip in France is one of the best ways to see this beautiful country, and because France is so accessible, this is an easy 2 week Europe road trip from UK and the rest of Europe

Start in the foodie city of Lyon, a five hour drive south of Paris , before using the historic Route Napoleon to travel south. It’s one of the best drives in Europe , free and incredibly scenic.

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is a gorgeous little town and worth a stop before you take a jaunt around the stunning Gorge du Verdon.

Try some wild swimming in the Lac de Sainte-Croix here before making your way to Aups for their authentic farmers market and Provencal vibe.

Stop at Cassis to explore the Calanques, huge gashes in the coastal cliffs, often only accessible by boat. Take a day trip out for a picnic and an idyllic afternoon of soaking up the sun and snorkeling.

Head north to the vibrant and pretty French city of Aix-en-Provence and spend an evening strolling through the charming squares and winding alleys of this elegant and cultured city.

Next up is the drive east across the hauntingly beautiful and off-the-beaten-track Camargue, before arriving at Bezier, famous for the nine locks of the Midi Canal.

Move on to Carcassonne, dipping into the Pyrenees en route to see the incredible Peyrepertuse Castle, before spending a few days marveling at La Cite, the Disneyesque medieval citadel of Carcassonne.

The pink city of Toulouse is your last stop and what a road trip destination it is! Head into the old town for great food, live music, and a typically Occitan atmosphere of noise, heat, and fun.

Walking through the fragrant iconic lavender fields of Valensole in Provence (June is the best month).
Kayaking to hiffen beaches in the stunning Calanques National Park from Cassis.
Discovering the atmospheric UNESCO World Heritage site of the medieval citadel in Carcassonne.

Lyon ⇒ Mob Hotel Lyon for stylish design, contemporary dining, and live DJ sets.

Aix-en-Provence ⇒ Le Pigonnet for its beautiful location and luxury with a touch of glamour.

Carcassonne ⇒ Hotel de la Cite for the Citadel location, traditional character, and spa.

Getty images - Colourful houses and yachts in front of pine covered hills

Lonely Planet Germany
The Rough Guide to Germany
DK Eyewitness Germany
Germany Travel Guide
Six Unmissable Germany Road Trip Routes
Deutsche Märchenstraße: Germany’s Fairy Tale Road
Romantic Road Germany: Itinerary, Map & Tips
Deutsche Alpenstrasse: Route, Map & Highlights
Motorhome Germany: Complete Touring Guide
Driving from UK to Germany: Best Routes, Costs & Tips

The Fairy Tale Road

Frankfurt – steinau – marburg – kassel – gottingen – hamelin – bremen.

Distance: 660km
Duration: 7 days
Drive Time: 10 hours

This central to north Germany road trip from Frankfurt does not technically start in the city, but Frankfurt is the perfect place to fly into and pick up a rental car. If you’re spending the night, make sure you visit the South Bank, where you’ll find an eclectic selection of restaurants, bars, and clubs.

The Fairy Tale route, or Deutsche Märchenstraße , offers travelers a series of charming towns, half-timbered buildings, castles, beautiful parks, and museums, most of which reference one fairy tale or another from the story collection of the Brothers Grimm .

The starting town of Steinau an der Strasse is straight out of their fairy tales, complete with typical half-timbered houses, twisting cobbled alleys, and the turreted Schloss Steinau which overlooks the whole town. Visit the Brüder Grimm Haus and Museum Steinau, both of which showcase the works of the brothers.

Take the back roads to Marburg and enjoy the gorgeous landscapes and slower pace for a few hours. Marburg’s altstadt is full of medieval houses and the hilltop Landgrafenschloss, a dramatic castle holding exhibits on sacred art and local history.

From Marburg, head to Kassel, where the Brothers Grimm spent their teenage years whilst working as librarians for the King of Westphalia, Jerome Bonaparte, the younger brother of the infamous Napoléon. Make sure to visit the Brüder Grimm Museum, and the Schloss und Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe, a tranquil green space and the largest hill park in all of Europe.

Gottingen is home to the University of Gottingen, where the Grimm Brothers once served as professors. Make for the traditional and atmospheric central market square, where the statue of Ganseliesel, the little goose girl of German lore, is one of the most kissed statues anywhere in the world. It is said that the kisser is rewarded with good luck, but maybe post-virus this practice will change!

Hameln (or Hamelin) is next up and one of the most famous fairy tale destinations in Europe. Hameln is the home of the Pied Piper, or Rattenfänger, who rid the town of rats in 1284, only to be cheated out of his payment.

The Pied Piper returned to Hameln a year later and lured away all the children. The story is re-enacted in the town center every Sunday between May and October and is a fantastic spectacle. The Weser Renaissance architecture of the Rattenfängerhaus and the Hochzeitshaus makes a fitting historic backdrop for the streets which are thronged with locals dressed the part, stalls selling food, and live music playing.

Finally, on to the Hanseatic city of Bremen, your final stop. Good places to visit in Bremen include the traditional Marktplatz, which is located in the city’s charming altstadt, the 600-year-old Rathaus or town hall, the Roselius-Haus Museum, and the stunning St. Petri Dom, the 11th century gothic cathedral.

Another landmark can be found in the city’s central town square – a statue of the Bremen musicians and heroes of the Brothers Grimm story, ‘The Town Musicians of Bremen’.

Watching the lively re-enactment of Hameln’s Pied Piper luring away visiting children.
Exploring the altstads of towns en-route, where half-timbered houses and cobbled streets are common.
Indulging in northern Germany’s hearty and tasty cuisine, like wurst , Germany’s delicious sausages, Bremer klaben , a yeasty cake of candied fruit and nuts, and kluten , a delicious dumpling.

Frankfurt ⇒ Kempinski Hotel Frankfurt Gravenbruch for its proximity to the airport and city center, fantastic spa, and beautiful surroundings.

Marburg ⇒ The Vila Vita Rosenpark for its central location, excellent regional restaurant, and stylish bedrooms.

Bremen ⇒ Atlantic Grand Hotel for its perfect riverside location, bike rental from reception, and ultra-stylish bathrooms.

Tradtional German altstadt with colourful houses and a castle perched on a rocky crag

Southern Germany Road Trip

Wurzburg – rothenburg – ludwigsburg – burg hohenzollern – fussen – oberammergau – linderhof – munich – chiemsee.

Distance: 790km
Drive Time: 11 hours

This route follows parts of southern Germany’s famous Romantic Road and the Deutsche Alpenstrasse and has a good mix of Alpine views, historic schloss and castles, and typical Bavarian towns and villages.

As you head south, enjoy the views of the magnificent Alps ahead.

You could rush around in a week but we think ten to fourteen days gives you enough time to visit a few other places of interest when you’re all castled out!

Visiting in the summer will provide you with sunshine and clear skies but if you can do this route in winter, then you’ll be rewarded with some of the best Christmas markets in the world, fairytale snowy landscapes, and schloss decorated for the festive season.

More of a palace than a castle, the Wurzburg Residence is a huge Baroque palace. Beautiful inside, the real draw here is the gardens, laid out in a typically formal French style.

From here, head to Rothenburg ob der Tauber, a fairytale Bavaria town packed with medieval architecture, half-timbered houses, and cobblestone streets.

Next up is Ludwigsburg Residential Palace one of the largest Baroque palaces in Germany. Its sumptuous interiors, with gold leaf and painted ceilings, are on a similar scale to Versaille, and the Palace Theatre is pretty impressive.

Schloss Lichtenstein is a pretty little Neo-Gothic castle built in the romantic style. It may not have the scale of other castles but it’s charming and quirky, with amazing views.

Hohenzollern Castle does have the scale, along with grandeur, Rapunzel towers, and a long royal history. It’s one of the most magical castles to visit in Germany .

Hohenzollern Palace (also known as Sigmaringen Castle) sits 50km to the southeast, can be seen on the horizon for miles around, and is a real hidden gem in Germany .

Our next stop is the daddy of German castles, Neuschwanstein. Just outside Fussen, in the village of Schwangau, Neuschwanstein is a truly stunning Cinderella-esque schloss built by the fascinating historical figure of King Ludwig II, who ruled Bavaria in the 19th century.

If you have time when visiting Neuschwanstein Castle , take a walk out to Marienbrucke bridge where you can take the perfect images of the castle, the earlier the better! This castle gets very busy every day through the year, so make sure you book tickets online before arriving.

Next up, take in Oberammergau, home of the famous once-in-a-decade Passion Play. There is also a fantastic public spa here, which may be just the thing after a few days of driving. The Germans know how to do a spa and this is one of the best we’ve visited.

If you’ve time to spare, visit the Zugspitze , you’re only an hour away from Germany’s highest mountain in the northern Alps . This natural wonder is easy to summit, with the help of the cogwheel train and cable car; it is absolutely worth the detour, and the views are stunning.

The next stop is Linderhof Palace , our favorite of the German schloss. This beautifully symmetrical and elegant palace is arguably King Ludwig’s finest creation. Check out the grottos in the landscaped grounds; they’re pretty special!

Finally, drive on to Munich for the Nymphenburg Palace, one of the premier royal palaces in Europe with magnificent interiors and gardens. Spend a day discovering Munich and if you’re road tripping in autumn , you could also take in Oktoberfest, Munich’s famous beer festival.

Herrenchiemsee Palace is the last stop on this Bavaria road trip. Known as the ‘Bavarian Versaille’, this palace is in a beautiful location on Herreninsel, the largest island on the Chiemsee lake.

Discovering the pretty medieval houses and architecture of Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
Admiring King Ludwig’s before-their-time building innovations at his fairytale castles .
Taking fantastic images of Neuschwanstein from Marienbruck at dawn, when the light is perfect and you’ll have the bridge to yourself.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber ⇒ Hotel Reichs-Kuchenmeister for its altstadt location, traditional Bavarian decor, and fabulous breakfast!

Oberammergau ⇒ Mammhofer Suites for their family-run hospitality, central location, and kitchen access for self-catering.

Munich ⇒ Roomers Munich for stylish design, superb customer service, and an excellent restaurant.

fairytale castle in mountains of Bavaria

Looking for the best SIM card deals in Europe for your trip? Check out our guide to the best data SIMs in Europe and get the best deal for your trip to France.

Lonely Planet Greece
The Rough Guide to Greece
DK Eyewitness Greece: Athens and the Mainland
Greece Road Trip: Incredible Routes for the Best Trip
One Day in Athens – Itinerary, Map, Tips & Guide
Motorhome & Campervan Greece – Complete Guide

Mainland Greece Road Trip

Athens – delphi – galaxidi – nafpaktos – parga – meteora – mount olympus – thessaloniki.

Distance: 947km
Duration: 2 weeks
Drive Time: 13 hours

The beautiful landscape of mainland Greece is dotted with ancient Greek monuments and temples, UNESCO World Heritage sites, hot springs, roadside churches, lemon trees overhanging the roads, and traditional tavernas where you’ll be welcomed with open arms.

This trip hits all the big highlights of Greece, taking you from the modern yet historic capital city to the most charming coastal towns before exploring the mountainous interior, all on one road trip.

You’ll visit the most important archaeological site in Greece, Ancient Delphi, and be in awe of the gravity-defying monasteries in Meteora, before making your pilgrimage to the most mythical of all sites in Greece, Mount Olympus.

Looking across the magnificent landscape of Meteora, to capture that once-in-a-lifetime iconic image.
Sipping a carafe of chilled Greek rose on the harbourside in Parga.
Taking the hike up to the Acropolis in Athens in the early morning, before the crowds arrive.

Ancient Delphi ⇒ Fedriades Delphi Hotel , for its perfect location and fantastic Greek breakfast.

Parga ⇒ Villa Coralli apartments for its perfect location overlooking Krioneri Beach and 200m from the center of town.

Thessaloniki ⇒ Plaza Hotel in Ladadika, for its beachside location close to all the major attractions.

Turquoise sea by small Greek coastal town

Peloponnese Road Trip

Athens – corinth – kalavryta – olympia – kalamata – the mani – sparta – nafplio – mycenae – athens.

Distance: 818km

This two week Peloponnese itinerary and road trip starts in the capital city of Athens. Spend a day or two in this incredible city, which is both ancient and edgy.

As you head west from Athens towards Ancient Corinth, you’ll cross the Corinth Canal, which splits the Corinth Isthmus, the narrow strip of land between mainland Greece and the Peloponnese, and joins the Aegean and Ionian Seas, it’s worth making a stop to see what was a major feat of engineering back in the day.

Home to the legendary Jason of the Argonauts, of Golden Fleece fame, Ancient Corinth was one of the largest and most important cities of Greece, with a population of 90,000 in 400 BCE. The Romans demolished Corinth in 146 BCE before building a new city in its place in 44 BCE, which became the provincial capital of Greece.

Next up, head to Kalavryta, known officially as the place where the Greek War of Independence started when Greece revolted against the Turks in 1821, and where 500 souls were massacred by the Nazis in World War Two. The latter event is depicted in the Museum of the Kalavryta Holocaust, a moving tribute to those residents and the story of the struggle between Greek partisans and the occupying forces.

The Diakofto-Kalavryta Railway is a vintage rack and pinion railway between the two towns. The route is incredibly scenic, passes through seven tunnels, and twists along the dramatic Vouraikos Gorge, clinging to its narrow ledge over the churning rapids below – make sure to fit this into your visit before moving on to Ancient Olympia.

The birthplace of the Olympic Games, Ancient Olympia is where the Games took place every four years, for over 1100 years! The Olympic Flame is still lit here for the modern Games. This beautiful, shady archaeological site is incredibly evocative – wandering through the ruins, it’s easy to imagine the ripped athletes and excited spectators of its heyday, amongst the magnificent temples and athletic facilities.

Our route has two options at this point – head inland for spectacular scenery and mountain passes, or take the coastal route around the middle peninsula of the Peloponnese through the wild and rugged Messinian Mani, with picture-perfect Kardamyli and the colorful harbor of pretty Gythio awaiting.

Your final stop is Nafplio , often called the most romantic city in Greece, and blessed with pretty streets, elegant neoclassical architecture, and interesting independent shops, bars, and tavernas.

Hiking the incredible Vouraikos Gorge from Kalavryta to Diakofto, and admiring the limestone formations along the route.
Driving the 59km Langada Pass across the Taygetos Mountains from Kalamata to gory Sparta and the Byzantine capital of Mystras.
Walking along the Cave of the Lakes boardwalk to view the incredible rock formations and thirteen crystal clear subterranean pools formed by millennia of mineral deposits.

Athens ⇒ The Athens Gate Hotel for its central location, Acropolis view, and stylish decor.

Kalamata ⇒ Messinian Icon Hotel & Suites for its spa and pools, sea views, and large, bright rooms.

Nafplio ⇒ Amymone and Adiandi for its perfect location, gorgeous decor, and homemade Greek breakfast.

Busy beach with sun shades and mountains behind

Don’t forget your road trip essentials! Our free road trip checklists help you remember everything, including road trip snacks , podcasts , and road trip songs for the journey!

Lonely Planet Iceland
The Rough Guide to Iceland
DK Eyewitness Top 10 Iceland
Iceland Road Trip – 26 Epic Things to See & Do
One Day Reykjavik Itinerary – Map, Tips & Guide
South Coast Iceland: 18 of the Best Things to Do & See

The Golden Circle Road Trip

Reykjavik – thingvellir national park – geysers of haukadalur valley – gullfoss waterfall – reykjavik.

Distance: 226km
Duration: 1 day
Drive Time: 4 hours
When: June – September

Close to Iceland’s capital city of Reykjavik , the Golden Circle is easily the most touristy thing to do in the land of fire and ice, and traditionally the first stop on Iceland’s Ring Road, so it can get very busy, especially in peak season.

Start early if you can, and hop onto the Iceland ring road (route 1), which takes you first past the Reykjavik waterfront, and then out to the three stops on the Golden Circle. It’s a short drive away from Reykjavik, and should only take about 40 minutes to get to the first stop, Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Located right in Þingvellir (or Thingvellir) National Park , you can walk through the middle of the large area where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates have been splitting apart over the course of the centuries. This is one of the coolest things to do while you’re visiting the Golden Circle.

Don’t miss the other attractions in the national park where the Continental Divide is located. It’s home to Iceland’s first Parliament, where chieftains formed the first laws and court proceedings at what is known as the Lögberg, and has lots of trails and beautiful nature to explore if you have the time. You can even go snorkeling at Silfra, and see the divide in the tectonic plates underwater!

The next stop, about 60 kilometers from Þingvellir, is the two geysers at Haukadalur . These geysers are easy to visit because they erupt very regularly, so you’ll definitely see at least one eruption while you’re there. Strokkur is the larger of the two, but don’t get too close as the water really is boiling hot!

The last stop on the Golden Circle is the Gullfoss waterfall, just one of Iceland’s incredible waterfalls, of which there are 10,000! The waterfall, located at the end of the Hvítá River, is absolutely gigantic and produces beautiful rainbows and light prisms from every angle.

There are viewing places galore here. A concrete path makes it easy to see the waterfall at various points, though there are clearly marked signs and ropes warning you where you should stop, as it can be very windy and slippery the closer you get to the edge.

After you’ve finished seeing Gullfoss, it’s about an hour and a half drive back to Reykjavik to complete the circle. There are add on’s which aren’t traditional Golden Circle stops, but you may want to take a lovely warm bath at the Blue Lagoon just outside the city, enjoy a slightly more natural thermal experience at the Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River, or head to the Kerid Crater if you’re in an off-road vehicle.

Spending an hour lounging in the Reykjadalur Hot Springs whilst taking in the incredible scenery.
Standing at the continental divide where Europe becomes North America, and being in awe of Iceland’s geology.
Doing the Golden Circle in reverse and getting to Gullfoss before the crowds arrive.

Reykjavik ⇒ Sand Hotel for its city center location and Icelandic character and design.

Lonely Planet Ireland
DK Eyewitness Ireland
The Rough Guide to Ireland
Wild Atlantic Way: Itinerary, Map & Tips
One Day in Dublin – Itinerary, Map, Tips & Guide
Motorhoming in Ireland – A Complete Guide

Wild Atlantic Way Road Trip

Co. donegal – co. sligo – co. mayo – co. galway – co. clare – co. limerick – co. kerry – co. cork.

Distance: 2600km
Drive Time: 37 hours

From Co. Donegal to Co. Cork and passing through counties Leitrim, Sligo, Mayo, Galway, Clare, Limerick, and Kerry, the Wild Atlantic Way winds down the intricate coast of western Ireland and the edge of Europe.

Taking in the must-sees of Malin Head, the Killarney National Park, the Cliffs of Moher, the Ring of Kerry, and the Dingle Peninsula, this is a truly epic Ireland road trip covering many of the Emerald Isle’s most beautiful spots .

This huge trip from the north to the south of Ireland is best done with time on your side. Three weeks is just about enough, four weeks or longer will give you time to explore more and perhaps participate in some activities along the way.

If this is too long for you, then pick out one of the six regions that appeal the most and take a couple of weeks to cover that specific area. You can find out more about these from the official Wild Atlantic Way website.

The Bay Coast stretches south from Erris to Galway Bay and takes in the wild beauty of Connemara, the incredible 365 islets of Clew Bay, pretty Georgian Westport, dramatic Downpatrick Head, and medieval Galway, our favorite city in Ireland .

There’s plenty of things to see and do in Ireland if you love wide open spaces, wilderness, and raw nature, one of the reasons we adore this bit of the Wild Atlantic Way.

A great alternative is to road trip from Dublin to Galway , traveling the southern half of the Wild Atlantic Way in a huge circle, and visiting Waterford, Dingle, and Cork on the way.

Dublin is a great place to start your road trip with an easily accessible international airport and lots of car rental choices.

Watching the rollers crashing from the savage beauty of Malin Head in Co. Donegal.
Tapping your foot, sipping a pint of Guinness, and enjoying a hooley (live traditional Irish folk music) in Galway.
Taking the steep and winding road to Dunquin Pier on the Dingle Peninsula for a memorable photo opportunity.

Westport Co. Mayo ⇒ Knockeranny House Hotel and Spa for sublime Clew Bay views, Irish hospitality, and elegant dining.

Rossnowlagh Co. Donegal ⇒ The Sandhouse Hotel and Marina Spa for its stunning beachfront location, contemporary decor, and excellent spa.

Glengarriff Co. Cork ⇒ Eccles Hotel and Spa for its snug and traditional decor, a superb restaurant specializing in local seafood, and proximity to the pretty village and harbor.

grass topped cliffs in front of steel grey sea and cloudy sky

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A Bucket List Amalfi Coast Road Trip
Sicily Road Trip – Itinerary, Tips & Map
Beautiful Puglia – A Road Trip Itinerary
Dolomites Road Trip: Explore the Best of Northern Italy
Motorhoming in Italy: Your Complete Guide
Driving to Italy from UK – Routes & Tips

Amalfi Coast Road Trip

Sorrento – positano – amalfi – ravello – salerno.

Distance: 70km
Duration: 2-3 days
Drive Time: 2-3 hours

The Amalfi Coast road, the SS163, is a 50km spectacular stretch of tarmac, hugging the cliffs and coves of the Tyrrhenian Sea, and is a bucket list Italy road trip experience.

Like the roads around Portofino and the Cinque Terre, this is a car route only and the road is permanently closed to motorhomes and RVs.

In a car or on a bike, it is best driven early in the morning in the months of April, May, October, and November due to the monstrously high amount of traffic in the peak months.

You can do the entire road in a day and stop in Ravello for lunch, but two or three days will give you longer to enjoy the glorious views and pretty towns en route.

Start from easily accessible Sorrento and head south across the peninsula until you get to the coast at San Pietro. Your first view of the glistening sea and this epic road are pretty special, prepare to be wowed.

Stop at Positano, the quintessential coast road town and the image on a thousand travel magazine covers. Take a wander through the maze of steep streets, pastel-painted stacked houses, and steps to find charming hotels and restaurants alongside chic independent boutiques.

Next up is Amalfi itself. This hugely popular holiday resort is the largest town along the coast road. The pretty seafront, with its cafes and glamorous boutiques, gives this town a great vibe.

Head west on foot to Spiaggia del Fornillo from Amalfi, a long stretch of soft sandy beach perfect for an afternoon’s relaxing.

Ravello has to be one of the most romantic villages in Italy and is right up there on our list of favorite places in Europe. Perched high above the sea and overlooking immaculate terraced slopes full of vines, Ravello is home to lush Mediterranean planting and charming sun-dappled squares, and has to be one of the best spots in Southern Italy .

The 20km round-trip detour to Ravello from the main coast road is so worth taking. Visit Villa Rufolo, host to beautifully landscaped and dramatic gardens with superb sea views.

On to Salerno and the end of the Amalfi Coast road, surely one of the best driving roads in Europe .

The glorious coastal views from the gardens of Villa Rufolo in Ravello.
Taking a Limoncello tour and tasting this delicious local liquor where it’s made.
Watching the fiery sun sink into the Tyrrhenian Sea at the end of a perfect day.

Positano ⇒ Hotel Marincanto for its stunning cliff-hugging position, beautifully decorated rooms, and hands-on owners.

Ravello ⇒ Hotel Villa Maria for its romantic dining terrace, old-world Italian charm, and fabulous breakfasts.

Vietri sul Mare ⇒ Palazzo Suriano for its fragrance-filled terraced gardens, excellent homemade breakfasts on the terrace, and gorgeous decor.

the Amalfi coast road with a small town in front and the turquoise sea to the right

Puglia Road Trip

Taranto – gallipoli – santa maria di leuca – lecce – ostuni – alberobello – bari.

Distance: 465km
Drive Time: 7 hours

Puglia, the heel of Italy’s boot, is a beautiful place for a 7 day road trip in Europe. With Trulli houses, a fabulous sandy coastline, and whitewashed villages, there is a lot to see and do here.

The abundance of fresh, local produce means you will eat and drink well on this road trip! We spent an amazing seven days exploring beautiful Puglia and fell in love with the region.

Visiting the UNESCO Trulli houses at Alberobello for an other-world experience.
Discovering Gallipoli’s atmospheric, oh-so-Italian old town and castle.
Finding a salumeria (deli) and enjoy the local specialties over a lazy lunch.

Gallipoli ⇒ Palazzo Presta for its fabulous old town location, eclectic design, and excellent service.

Lecce ⇒ La Fiermontina Urban Resort for its contemporary art and sculpture, outdoor pool set in an olive grove and gorgeous rooms.

Alberobello ⇒ Tipico Resort for its superb location, fabulous breakfast and for being a Trulli!

A large castle built jutting out into the sea

Sicily Road Trip

Catania – syracuse – ragusa – agrigento – marsala – palermo – cefalu – taormina.

Distance: 840km
Drive Time: 12 hours

A coastal road trip around Sicily can take a few weeks or a few months, there is so much to see. From ancient, immaculately preserved temples to modern and vibrant cities like Palermo , via jaw-dropping natural wonders, this rich and diverse island is a world away from anywhere you’ve ever been before.

Read our detailed guide to road-tripping eclectic Sicily , which includes an itinerary along the island’s coastal ring road, and start planning your trip!

Taking a hike above the clouds to the summit of Mount Etna and look deep into the rumbling magma below.
Being awed by the ancient Valley of the Temples in Agrigento.
Wandering the charming historic back streets of Ortigia, the old town of Syracuse.

Syracuse ⇒ Hotel Gutkowski for lovingly crafted and unique interiors, beachcomber chic, and a cool roof terrace.

Palermo ⇒ BB22 for its perfect piazza location, a cozy home-from-home feel, and palazzo style.

Taormina ⇒ Hotel Villa Ducale for spectacular views, a relaxed vibe, and legendary cocktails!

an Italian hilltop town with houses stacked together

Tuscany & Umbria Road Trip

Pisa – lucca – florence – san gimignano – siena – arezzo – cortona – pienza – montepulciano – assisi – spoleto.

Distance: 500km
When: avoid August

Italy is a gorgeous country for a road trip , no area more so than Tuscany and Umbria, which are easily accessible by car from the UK and Europe. The rolling fields of vines and golden wheat, studded with tall cypress trees and creamy stone villas are iconic.

This is a truly epic journey packed full of culture, great food, wine, and fantastic roads. There is much to see and lots of interesting places to stop between the main route destinations, make sure to do your research before leaving home!

Pisa in northern Italy is a great place to start this road trip. The leaning tower is a bit cliched but has to be seen. Lucca is perfect to explore on foot, with narrow lanes opening onto charming piazzas lined with historic buildings.

Florence is the jewel in Tuscany’s crown. A surprisingly compact city with the imposing Duomo at the center, a must-see. Book well in advance for anything to do with the Duomo, it’s strictly ticketed and you won’t be able to buy a ticket on the day.

You’ll probably want at least two days in Florence to see everything at a manageable pace, although you can see Florence in a day if you plan well. Leaving Florence is the time to set your sat nav to ‘no autostrada’ and get off the beaten track in the Tuscan countryside …yes, it may take a little longer but it will be worth it!

San Gimignano, famous for its thirteen towers, sits high on a hill south of Florence. Between April and September, this thriving hill village is busy with tourists visiting the churches, palazzos, independent shops, and restaurants.

Onwards to Arezzo and then Cortona, one of the oldest and most scenic hill towns in Tuscany. Pienza is a delightful village and has perfect, interesting streets for wandering and admiring the 15th century architecture.

The drive through the Val d’Orcia from Pienza to Montepulciano on the SP146 is like driving through a film set! Sweeping curves, rolling vineyards, and photo opportunities at every bend; this is quintessential Tuscany.

From Montepulciano , follow the road around the tranquil Lake Trasimeno to Assisi, our favorite Umbrian destination. The imposing Basilica of St Francis can be seen hugging the hillside for miles around. Your last stop is the gorgeous hill town of Spoleto, stuffed with monuments, churches, and other historic buildings.

For us, this has got to be one of the best European road trips we have taken; for the fabulous ride (we did it on a motorbike, highly recommended!), the stunning landscapes, and the beautiful Italian hospitality.

Taking the breathtaking drive through the Val d’Orcia to Montepulciano with photo opportunities galore and a glass of local red waiting for you!
Discovering Siena’s perfectly laid out, beautiful fan-shaped Piazza del Campo.
Climbing the dome of the Duomo in Florence for spectacular views, inside and out!

Florence ⇒ AdAstra Suites for their stunning location, classy and interesting decor, and magnificent terrace.

Montepulciano ⇒ Palazzo Carletti for attention to detail, gorgeous frescoed interiors, and central location.

Assisi ⇒ Nun Assisi Relais and Spa – for its lavender-filled gardens, incredible Roman spa, and fabulous restaurant.

road lined with Italian Cypress trees winding through green fields with an orange sunset sky

Lonely Planet Norway
Fodor’s Essential Norway
The Rough Guide to Norway
Norway Road Trip – Three Unmissable Routes
Atlantic Road Norway: Absolutely Everything You Need to Know!
Driving to Norway from UK – Routes & Tips
One Day Oslo Itinerary – Map, Guide & Tips
Campervanning in Norway – Tips, Routes & Destinations
Flåm Norway: Visitor Guide & Tips

West Coast of Norway Road Trip

Bergen – loen – geiranger – trollstigen – kristiansund – trondheim – jektvik – bodo – tromso.

Distance: 2120km
Drive Time: 30 hours

Taking in the iconic sights of Norway ‘s west coast, this route will take you through tunnels, over fjords, along the Atlantic Ocean Road, and the infamous Trollstigen Mountain Road.

This is a route for those that love the journey more than the destination; it’s all about the road – even getting to Norway is a road trip in itself!

Start in beautiful Bergen , the city surrounded by seven fjords and seven hills. There are lots of things to do here, including visiting the lively Vagen harbor in Bergen’s old quarter, Bryggen.

From Bergen, take the E39 motorway north to Loen where you’ll find the awesome new Loen Skylift which takes you to the top of Mount Hoven for spectacular views of the white-blue Jostedalsbreen glacier.

If you prefer to get to the top under your own steam, then take the via Ferrata up and the zip-line down! Is sea-level activity more your thing? Then head for glacial Lake Lovatnet where you can swim and kayak.

At Hellesylt, you’ll take the ferry through Geirangerfjorden to Geiranger itself before picking up the RV63, the Trollstigen Mountain Road. Incredibly beautiful, this road was opened in 1936 and includes eleven hairpin bends and a 9% incline. Stop at the Ornesvingen viewing point for incredible vistas and again at the top to admire the Stigfossen waterfall.

Once you reach Andalsnes, head west and then drive north on the E39 to Vevang, and the start of the Atlantic Ocean Road, which runs across seven bridges and follows the islands between them like a silver ribbon. If you want to visit picture-perfect Alesund on the way, take a slight detour and head south on the E39 instead of north – if you have a few extra days, you won’t regret it!

Next up is Trondheim, Norway’s original capital city before you head to Jektvik. You can either take the E6 Arctic Highway all the way or around 80km north of Trondheim, and just after Steinkjer, pick up the FV17 and take in the glorious landscape and coastal views from the magnificent Kystriksveien Coastal Route.

This Atlantic road route will add a fair few kilometers, two days, and six fjord ferries to your journey, but the detour will be worth it if you have the time. You’ll cross into the Arctic Circle at 66 degrees, on the ferry between Kilborghavn and Jektvik.

At Bodo, you can get a ferry out to the Lofoten Islands if you are making this a longer trip. Perfect for hikers and nature lovers, Lofoten has become Norway’s go-to place for adventure – you can even swim with Orca whales here!

Mount Romvik, outside Bodo and with minimal light pollution, is a good place to see the Northern Lights.

Otherwise, keep on trucking to Tromso , Norway’s party city. From here, you can head on to Nordkapp where the sun never drops below the horizon from mid-May to the end of July.

Hauntingly beautiful but incredibly busy, you may prefer the true northernmost point of continental Europe at Knivskjelodden, an 18km hike away and inaccessible to vehicles.

You could also take a ferry to Svalbard and visit the polar bears, catch the Hurtigruten ferry back to Bergen or Oslo , or get on a flight to pretty much anywhere in the world. Wherever you end up, it will take you a while to forget what is surely one of the best road trips in Europe.

Driving the thrilling and impressive Trollstigen Road from Geiranger to Andalasnes
Crossing the Arctic Circle into the land of the midnight sun and Northern Lights.
Following the Kystriksveien Coastal Route and see the real coastal Norway of fishing villages and subsistence agriculture.

Bergen ⇒ Det Hanseatiske Hotel for its harbourside location, dining options, and cozy decor.

Narvik ⇒ Narvik Mountain Lodge for its truly spectacular location, traditional log cabin style, and amazing coastal views.

Tromso ⇒ Scandic Ishavshotel for its harbor location, fabulous breakfasts, and excellent customer service.

red and green shed by the edge of lake surrounded by mountains

Western Fjords Road Trip

Stavanger – preikestolen – kjeragbolten – trolltunga – flam – bergen.

Distance: 687km
Duration: 7-10 days
Drive Time: 14 hours

This is an outdoor enthusiasts’ adventurous road trip ! If you’ve ever looked at those amazing images of people perched on tongues of rock, sheer cliffs, or precipitously balanced boulders whilst gazing out over stunning blue fjords, then this is the road trip for you. We did this Norway route by campervan , and it’s got to be one of our favorite travel experiences!

You’ll start in the pretty and typically Norwegian city of Stavanger before heading off to hike to Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) which is 4km and can be done in half a day with an early start.

Next up is the Kjeragbolten hike, the site of a giant boulder wedged in a crevasse 1084m above Lysefjorden, where you can also base jump. This is a longer hike at 10km and you will need a full day to complete it.

Both hikes can get busy and you may have to wait if you want the obligatory photo, so allow plenty of time. If you’re not a confident hiker, consider taking a guided hike, you’ll learn lots on the way.

Everywhere you drive in Norway, you are surrounded by mountains, fjords, and waterfalls. The scenery is simply spectacular, with new thrills around each bend in the road. Route 13 from Stavanger to Odda is known as the Ryfylke National Scenic Route, one of Norway’s eighteen official touring routes designated for their stunning scenery and tourist-friendly infrastructure.

As you drive through Norway you will motor through tunnels and need to get a ferry to cross a fjord. Allow several hours drive time longer than Google Maps suggests; this is a full day drive and you should start early.

Your next stop is Odda, for the infamous Trolltunga (literally Troll’s Tongue) one of the best hikes in the world. The most challenging of the three, this hike is 20km distance across mainly flat terrain but can be tricky underfoot with changeable weather. Hiking Trolltunga is not for the faint-hearted or unprepared but is an absolute must-do on your Norway road trip.

Take a few day’s downtime in Flam, a small village right at the top of the beautiful Aurlandsfjord. Surrounded by mountains, waterfalls, and water this is a playground for hikers, water sports enthusiasts, and mountain bikers.

From Flam, you can drive to Bergen or take the spectacular Flamsbana railway there, considered one of the most spectacular train rides in the world.

Taking the incredible Flam Railway to Myrdal and cycle the Rallar Road.
Standing on the edge of the Troll’s Tongue with the world at your feet.
Discovering the imposing and dramatic Lysefjorden by boat.

Stavanger ⇒ Sola Strand Hotel for the breathtaking beachfront location and a modern spa.

Odda ⇒ Vikinghaug Apartments for their amazing fjord views and the post-Trolltunga bath!

Flam ⇒ Flåmsbrygga Hotel for its superb central position, cozy traditional decor, and micro-brewery.

A small black clapboard church by a gree and white river

Lonely Planet Portugal
DK Eyewitness Portugal
The Rough Guide to Portugal
Road Trip Portugal – Two Incredible Itineraries
Driving from Lisbon to Porto: Itinerary, Route & Tips
Driving to Portugal from UK – Routes & Tips
Campervanning in Portugal: Complete Guide

Atlantic Coast Road Trip

Porto – coimbra – nazare – sintra – lisbon.

Distance: 400km
Duration: 5-7 days

Portugal is a tiny country but it packs one hell of a punch. This Portugal road trip itinerary can be managed in five days, but seven gives you the opportunity to revel in the cities of Porto and Lisbon and enjoy a beach stop en route.

You could easily drive from Lisbon to Porto as a 7 day road trip in Europe from UK if you fly into Porto and out of Lisbon, or vice versa. One-way car rental is possible from either airport.

Porto is a lively and fun city, intimate and friendly. There’s a lot to do in Porto but walking over the mighty Douro river on the iconic Luis I Bridge to Vila Nova de Gaia and the historic port lodges, has to be top of the list.

Head south from here to the less-traveled city of Coimbra , Portugal’s ancient capital. Stacked on the banks of the river Mondego, the Moorish old town is dramatic and atmospheric. This is a great place to stop at a bar for authentic live fado or Portuguese guitar music.

Halfway between Coimbra and Lisbon, take a short detour to Nazare on Portugal’s Silver Coast. Known for its monster waves and daredevil surfers, this is a great place if you like huge beaches and dramatic landscapes.

Heading south, Sintra, in the mountains of the same name, is a love-it-or-hate-it kind of place. Home to Portuguese royalty for centuries, the lush landscape is dotted with pastel-colored palaces, villas, and houses.

You can also take a day trip to Sintra from Lisbon if you’d prefer to base yourself in the city. Visit and decide for yourself!

Finally to wonderful Lisbon for picture-postcard panoramas and fabulous food! This most Portuguese of cities serves up fantastic bacalhau, pastel de nana, and port from the Douro Valley. Head for the exotic Tropical Botanical Gardens and stroll amongst giant banana plants before visiting the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, a haven of peace amongst the bustling city.

If you want to stretch your week in Portugal, you’ll find the beautiful Algarve region just three hours south of Lisbon. This stunning part of Portugal is famous for its incredible beaches and perfect climate. Make for the charming town of Lagos and enjoy the laid-back holiday vibes.

Taking a port wine tour and tasting in one of Porto’s historic port wine lodges.
Heading to a fado bar to hear the traditional and haunting music of Portugal played live.
Tasting hundreds of delicious foods at the Mercado de Ribeira, Lisbon’s buzzy food hall.

Porto ⇒ Flores Village Hotel and Spa for its central location, roof-top bar views, and stylish design.

Coimbra ⇒ Sapientia Boutique Hotel for the perfect location, stylish design, and warm hospitality.

Lisbon ⇒ Valverde Hotel for its gorgeous interiors, walkable location, and courtyard pool.

red roofed colourful houses and domed topped church in front of sea and cloudy sky

Lonely Planet Spain
DK Eyewitness Road Trips Spain
The Rough Guide to Spain
Spain Travel Guide
Six of the Best Road Trips in Spain
The Perfect Andalucia Road Trip: Itinerary, Map & Tips
North Spain Road Trip: Itinerary, Route & Tips
Madrid in One Day – Itinerary, Map, Tips & Guide
One Day in Barcelona – Itinerary, Map, Tips & Guide
Driving from UK to Spain – Routes & Tips
Motorhoming in Spain: Your Complete Guide

Andalucia Road Trip

Marbella – ronda – cadiz – jerez de la frontera – seville – cordoba – granada.

Distance: 600km

Andalucia epitomizes Spain for most visitors; vibrant, colorful, and passionate. This itinerary will take you to the major cities of Andalucia, bringing Spain alive.

If you’re looking for a longer holiday, it’s perfect for a 3 week European road trip itinerary with a bit of beach time thrown in, even if you visit in winter .

This is a perfect road trip to start and finish in Malaga. Fly in, hire a car, and within a few hours, you can be on the beaches of the Costa del Sol, enjoying year-round sunshine.

In Marbella, spend a day soaking up the sun and visiting the charming old town. Make for Taberna Casa Curro Marbella where you’ll find great tapas and fruity Spanish wine.

Head north to Ronda and the stunning mountains of the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park. If you have a few extra days, now is the time to visit the atmospheric cities of Cadiz and Jerez de la Frontera, two of our favorite places in Spain .

Your next stop is Seville , a city almost too good to be true, and everything you ever through Seville would be.

Cordoba is home to the breathtaking Mezquita, or mosque-cathedral, started by the Moors and finished by the Spanish conquistadors in the sixteenth century. Seeing this alone would make a visit to Cordoba worthwhile.

Pass through Antequera and learn the local legend of the Lovers Rock before making your way high into the Sierra Nevada to Granada and the famous Alhambra. Make sure you book your priority tickets online at least three months in advance, this ancient palace of kings sells out quickly.

Visiting the beautiful La Casa del Rey Moro in Ronda for unrivaled views of the Puenta Nuevo.
Watching steamy live flamenco in Seville’s atmospheric Barrio Santa Cruz.
Being wowed by the incredible Moorish architecture of the Mezquita in Cordoba.

Marbella ⇒ Amare Beach Hotel for its fun adults-only vibe and glamorous beach club.

Seville ⇒ Casa del Poeta for the beautifully renovated interiors, Barrio Santa Cruz location, and roof-top views to die for.

Granada ⇒ Hotel Santa Isabel la Real for cozy rooms, spectacular Alhambra views, and a really special cooked breakfast.

creamy coloured palace with snow capped mountains behind

Northern Spain Road Trip

San sabastian – bilbao – comillas – oviedo – ribadeo – a coruna – santiago de compostela.

Distance: 775km
When: April – October

This Spanish road trip will take you through the beautiful and lush, aptly named Green Spain, hugging the north coast along the Bay of Biscay.

From the border with France and through the regions of the Basque Country, Cantabria, Asturias, and Galicia, you’ll see some of the most picturesque landscapes in Spain, enjoy amazing food, and crisscross the famous Camino de Santiago .

Start in San Sabastian, a sophisticated city with a renowned restaurant scene, famous for seafood and pintxos (pronounced pinchos), which are similar to tapas.

Take a gastronomic tour for the best experience. Eat your fill and head west to Bilbao, home of the incredible Guggenheim museum . The building itself is a work of art, with beautifully curved and sweeping architecture.

Head west, making sure to stop at the cave of El Castillo to see the 35,000-year-old drawings there.

Continue along the coast to the stunning Santillana del Mar, known as the town of the three lies; not holy (santi), flat (llana) or by the sea (del mar) .

This medieval town is beautifully preserved and worth a wander before you make your way to Comillas, further along the coast. Traditionally low-rise, you’ll find a pretty beach, a tiny fishing port, and a charming cobbled old center here.

Don’t miss El Caprichio, a Gaudi-designed villa. If you have a few extra days, head into the Picos de Europa , the small but perfectly formed mountain range.

Oviedo is the next stop and the starting point of the lesser-known Camino Primitivo (the oldest Camino). This compact and elegant city is another foodie delight, with a lively gastronomic scene.

Home to Spanish cider (who knew?), you’ll find traditional sidrerias along Calle Gascona, known as cider boulevard. Visit in September for Fiestas de San Mateo , a live theatre and music spectacular. If you go in October, you’ll be in the middle of the Asturias apple harvest.

A Coruna is up next, passing by the spectacular Playa de Las Catedrales en route. There is so much to do in A Coruna, a dynamic city that is home to a busy modern port, a relaxed beachfront resort, and an atmospheric old town.

The seafood here is some of the freshest and finest in Spain, with seafood tapas being a specialty. Take a walk out to the Tower of Hercules, the least-looking lighthouse we have ever seen!

Finally, you’ll reach Santiago de Compostela , the end point of the famous Camino de Santiago, and your last stop. As you enter the town, you’ll see pilgrims covering the final few miles into one of the most beautiful cities in Spain, proudly displaying their vieira, the scallop shell badge that you’ll have seen along your route .

Twisting alleys, dramatic squares, and historic religious buildings make up this labyrinth of a city, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are too many must-sees to list so consider a walking tour with a local to make the most of the time you have in this gorgeous city.

Eating delicious pintxos straight from the bar in the Basque Country.
Walking along the boardwalks at Playa de Las Catedrales and marvel at the extraordinary natural arches.
Exploring the cathedral in Santiago de Compostela and make the climb to Las Cubiertas , the cathedral roof, for incredible views of the city and landscape beyond.

San Sebastian ⇒ Lasala Plaza Hotel for a big dose of glamour, sea views, and a cool rooftop pool.

Oviedo ⇒ Barcelo Oviedo Cervantes for its laid-back vibe, modern decor, and smooth service.

Santiago de Compostela ⇒ Parador De Santiago de Compostela for its history, traditional decor, and HUGE breakfast buffet.

Large and ornate Roccoco cathedral in Spain

Switzerland

Fodor’s Essential Switzerland
Rough Guide to Switzerland
DK Eyewitness Switzerland
Switzerland Road Trip: The Best Itinerary + Map & Tips
One Day in Zurich – Itinerary, Map, Tips & Guide

Grand Tour of Switzerland: The Best Road Trip in Europe?

Road trip to the alps, zurich – bern – lausanne – geneva – montreux – nendaz – zermatt – interlaken – lauterbrunnen – grindelwald – furka pass – lucerne – zurich.

Distance: 991km
Drive Time: 17 hours

This two week Switzerland summer road trip will take you on a spectacular, circular drive through Switzerland’s iconic landscapes covering roughly 1000km south across western Switzerland to Geneva before heading east towards Zermatt and eventually back north to Zurich.

Starting in Zurich, your first stop will be Bern, found within the curves of the Aare river. Bern is the capital city of Switzerland and is known for its 12th century architecture that forms the old town or Alstadt . Your visit to Bern would be incomplete without exploring Lake Brienz, just north of the Alps, which offers breathtaking mountain views and is considered one of the most beautiful places in Switzerland .

After your trip to Bern, begin traveling south to Lausanne, Geneva, and Montreux, visiting Lac Léman en route.

The following stretch of your trip will provide unrivaled views of Les Diablerets as you head towards Zermatt where you will be met with the iconic Matterhorn, a mountain in the Swiss Alps.

At this point, your road trip starts the route east taking you to Interlaken, Lauterbrunnen, and Grindelwald where hiking, mountain views, waterfalls and plenty of exciting adventures await.

As you leave Grindelwald, make sure you save time for the Furka Pass as you head to Lucerne. Our Swiss road trip itinerary will continue north to our initial starting point, the city of Zurich.

Driving the incredible Alps passes of Furka and Susten, high in the picturesque Bernese Highlands.
Taking one of the many cog-wheeled trains or cable cars into the big mountains that Switzerland is famous for.
Exploring the incredible Jungfraujoch from Lauterbrunnen, an absolutely epic day trip!

Zurich ⇒ Placid Hotel Design & Lifestyle for its very cool interiors, accessible location, and free bikes to help you explore the city.

Geneva ⇒ Hotel Mon Repos for its excellent location, beautifully decorated rooms, and comfy beds.

Lauterbrunnen ⇒ Hotel Schützen Lauterbrunnen for its Swiss chalet style, cozy restaurant and terrace, and friendly service.

United Kingdom

Lonely Planet Great Britain
DK Eyewitness Great Britain
Rough Guides Make the Most of Your Time in Britain
United Kingdom Travel Guide
UK Road Trip – 18 Unmissable Routes
Eight Incredible Scotland Road Trips
North Coast 500 Route Planner + Highlights, Map & Tips
Road Trip England – 10 of the Best Routes
Wales Road Trip – A Stunning Route & Itinerary
A South England Road Trip to Dorset & The New Forest
Cornwall Road Trip: The Best Itinerary, Map & Tips
Causeway Coastal Route: The Best Road Trip In Ireland?
Belfast in A Day: Itinerary, Map & Tips
Atlantic Highway: An Epic Devon & Cornwall Road Trip

Causeway Coastal Route, Northern Ireland

Derry-londonderry – port rush – bushmills – cushendun – carrickfergus – belfast.

Distance: 185km

The wild and unspoiled Antrim Coast in Northern Ireland is made for a road trip. Peppered with fascinating places to see and exciting things to do, this route will appeal to outdoor adventurers.

If you are a Game of Thrones fan , there are lots of places along this route which featured in the show or book a tour to find them all.

Start in the walled city of Derry-Londonderry, one of the finest examples of a walled city in Europe and the only remaining completely walled city in Ireland. The walls, which are around 1.5km in circumference, form a walkway around the inner city and provide a unique promenade to view the layout of the original town.

From here head north on the coast road, past the magnificent and unmistakable mountain of Binevenagh, and stop at Benone beach for a bracing walk along the sands. Don’t miss the Mussenden Temple perched on the cliff edge at the easternmost point of the beach.

Make your way to the pretty seaside town of Port Rush for a local ice cream and local craft shopping before meandering along the coast to Bushmills, home of the whiskey distillery. This is the perfect starting point for the gloriously breathtaking Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland’s first UNESCO site.

As you head west, make sure to stop at the picture-perfect harbor of Ballintoy and test yourself at the Carrick-a-rede rope bridge.

Take in the conservation village of Cushendun, steeped in character and folklore before heading on to Carrickfergus Castle. This imposing Norman castle stands on the northern shore of Belfast Lough and is one of the best-preserved medieval structures on the island of Ireland.

Belfast is your final stop; don’t miss the fantastic Titanic Quarter, historic Crumlin Road Gaol, and the buzzing nightlife of the Cathedral Quarter. Check out this detailed post for more things to do in Belfast .

If you have longer, start in Belfast and head in the opposite direction. From Derry-Londonderry head across the border into raw and wild Co. Donegal and pick up the Wild Atlantic Way. This makes for a great island of Ireland 2 week road trip in Europe.

Discovering the Giant’s Causeway, a truly spectacular natural wonder.
Crossing the iconic Peace Bridge in Derry-Londonderry and then walking the ancient city walls.
Taking a black cab mural tour in Belfast for a unique cabbie’s take on local politics and the troubles.

Londonderry ⇒ Bishop’s Gate Hotel for its perfect location, fascinating history, and tasteful decor.

Bushmills ⇒ The Bushmills Inn Hotel for its homely peat fires, great Irish breakfast, and proximity to the Giant’s Causeway.

Belfast ⇒ Ten Square Hotel for its superb central location, fantastic grill restaurant, and contemporary decor.

narrow road running by sea with green hills on the other side

Norfolk Road Trip, England

Norwich – wroxham – winterton – cromer – hunstanton – sandringham – king’s lynn.

Distance: 175km

This delightful coastal road trip will take you through the county of Norfolk to the Norfolk Broads, old-fashioned English seaside resorts, and onto the beautiful and unspoiled North Norfolk coast .

Summer road trips in the UK are best if you want sunshine, but visit the UK in winter for more cost-effective travel and you’ll enjoy incredible beaches, big skies, and perfect solitude, especially when you road trip in Norfolk, England.

From the historic and pretty city of Norwich , head east towards Wroxham, the self-styled capital of the Broads. The dramatic landscapes and raw natural beauty of the Norfolk Broads were created when peat digs flooded in the 14th century.

This area is now a national park and a haven for wildlife and birds. Take a Broads cruise, hire a boat, or head off for a long walk along towpaths and through fields, where seeing flapping sails in the river is an everyday occurrence.

Nearby is the loud and bright town of Great Yarmouth , a traditional bucket and spade destination, with great nearby beaches and lots to do – you certainly won’t get bored here!

From the Broads, head east to explore the pretty towns and incredible beaches of the Norfolk coast. Winterton-on-Sea is a perfect place to see seal pups in the winter. Further north is the popular seaside town of Cromer , renowned for its lively pier.

From Cromer make a short detour south to the stunning Jacobean Blickling Hall , home of Anne Boleyn.

Continue along the coast road to Blakeney and practice your crabbing skills from the harbor. Make a stop at the beautiful and huge Holkham Beach, where the ending of ‘Shakespeare in Love’ was filmed.

Onwards from here to Hunstanton , another bucket and spade destination, which is close to the medieval and Hanseatic port town of King’s Lynn .

From here it’s a short drive to Sandringham , home of the Queen. There are lots of things to do here, including visiting the house, gardens and country park.

If you have time, head to 12th century Castle Rising before making your way to the Hanseatic town of Kings Lynn. The town’s heritage is reflected in the fine merchants’ houses which stretch down to the river between cobbled lanes and the elegant Custom House that overlooks the harbor.

Walking on Holkham Bay, one of the most beautiful beaches in the country.
Traditional, delicious and fresh fish and chips from No 1 Cromer .
Discover the stunning historic estates of Blickling Hall and Holkham Hall.

Norwich ⇒ The Georgian Townhouse for its informal vibe, lively bar and restaurant, and contemporary decor.

Thornham ⇒ The Lifeboat Inn for its romantic retreat-style location, open fires, and really seriously good pub grub.

King’s Lynn ⇒ Bank House for its prime location, Grade II exterior, and go-to, lively brasserie.

red and white stiped lighthouse in a field of ripe rapeseed

North Coast 500 Road Trip, Scotland

Inverness – wick – john o’groats – durness – lochinver – ullapool – applecross.

Distance: 830km

A favorite of motorhomers and campervanners, this iconic Scottish road trip is a 516 mile route that wends its way around the spectacular north coast of Scotland, starting and ending in Inverness.

Passing through the remote and wild landscapes of the Scottish Highlands and the spectacular west coast, the North Coast 500 route delivers dramatic roads with spectacular views and is one of the must-do road trips in the United Kingdom .

Hiking to beautiful Sandwood Bay Beach , for the incredible sight of the Am Buachaille sea stack, a remnant of when the Highlands and North America were connected, millions of years ago.
Whale watching from Gairloch, where you might also see porpoise, dolphins, and sharks, as well as seals, otters, puffins, and maybe white-tailed eagles.
Driving Bealach na Ba, the legendary Applecross Pass, and one of the best (but also most dangerous) roads in the UK.

Inverness ⇒ Kingsmills Hotel for its traditional Scottish decor, lively bar, and spa.

Wick ⇒ Mackays Hotel for its award-winning service, great restaurant, and ideal location.

Gairloch ⇒ Shieldaig Lodge Hotel for its wonderful lochside location, traditional hunting lodge style, and seriously good breakfast.

Scottish loch with a small bothy beside in in fall

Snowdonia to the Brecon Beacons, Wales

Snowdonia – portmeirion – barmouth – new quay – pembrokeshire – gower peninsula – mumbles – brecon beacons.

Distance: 256km

Small but perfectly formed, the glorious country of Wales is a road tripper’s dream. With soaring mountains and valleys, miles of golden sands, craggy headlands, and some incredible roads, head to Wales for an adventurous and eclectic road trip.

Start your road trip itinerary in the spectacular Snowdonia National Park, or Parc Cenedlaethol Eryri in Welsh, in north Wales for drama, huge skies, and plenty of outdoor adventures. Perfect as a base for a few days, Betws-y-Coed is a typical mountain town in a beautiful valley, full of companies offering outdoor adventures, shops selling outdoor gear, and pubs and restaurants full of hikers talking about the day’s activities.

Your next stop is Portmeirion, considered by many to be one of the most beautiful places in Wales. Portmeirion is best known for Portmeirion Pottery (now made in Stoke-on-Trent) and its role in the 1960’s cult TV show The Prisoner . Look beyond the obvious though and enjoy local walks, tropical gardens, and interesting architecture.

Families with love Barmouth and its location on the west coast has to be one of the most beautiful in Wales. Steeped in a history rich with connections to the shipping and slate industries, this is a good old-fashioned seaside resort with a west facing beach ideal for sea swimming and watersports.

Head south through coastal mid-wales to the vibrant seaside town of New Quay, following the Coastal Way along the length of Ceredigion Bay. Popular with tourists for its picturesque harbor and sandy beach, New Quay is an ideal base for water sports like sailing, stand-up paddle, kayaking, and canoeing – you’ll find lots to pack in for a couple of days.

Next up is Pembrokeshire, famous for its rough cliffs, huge beaches, and remote islands. The coast of Pembrokeshire offers limitless opportunities to enjoy the outdoors and is one of the most stunning places in the UK.

Pembrokeshire boasts that it invented coasteering, and it’s an activity you must try. The sport of jumping from land to sea, cliff scrambling, and swimming between rocks will stretch you mentally and physically but give you hours of fun. There is also lots of opportunity for swimming, paddling and generally messing about on the water.

Your next stop is the spectacular Gower Peninsula in south Wales, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty famous for its breathtaking coastline, 30 or so unspoiled beaches and coves, and coastal walking, including the gorgeous Rhossili Beach and the dramatic Worm’s Head, whose long ridged back rises straight from the sea.

Stop at Mumbles, a traditional seaside town, and walk along the bustling prom, where rollerbladers weave between pedestrians, and ice-cream parlors tempt.

Make a detour to the infamous Top Gear road, the Black Mountain Pass, as you head into the Brecon Beacons, or Bannau Brycheiniog in Welsh, for more fantastic hiking, especially if you tackle Pen y Fan, and incredible views.

Driving the Black Mountain Pass and the Gospel Pass through the Brecon Beacons.
Paddleboarding at the Blue Lagoon at Abereiddy in Pembrokeshire.
Visiting the puffins and wildlife of Skomer Island.

Snowdonia ⇒ Ty Gwyn Hotel in Betws-y-Coed for its great location, friendly welcome, and traditional decor.

New Quay ⇒ Rooms @ The Dolau Inn for its location close to the beach, cozy rooms, and Welsh hospitality.

Pembrokeshire ⇒ Heywood Spa Hotel in Tenby for its luxury facilities, comfortable rooms, and great location.

brightly painted houses and a beach with small fishing boats

European Road Trip Resources

Here are the websites and services we personally use and recommend for planning a European road trip.

Search for affordable flights to Europe with Skyscanner
Search for availability and book hotels and accommodation in Europe with Booking.com
Find and book the best campsites in Europe with Eurocampings
Book the cheapest and most reliable hire cars in Europe with Rentalcars.com
Best for ferries around Europe are Direct Ferries
Find and hire your perfect motorhome or campervan with Motorhome Republic
Get highly rated, reliable, and trustworthy travel insurance with True Traveller
Check if you need a visa and arrange your documents with Visagov

Information About Driving in Europe

Driving in Europe – Everything You Need to Know
How to Plan a Road Trip – Your Complete Guide
19 Helpful Long Distance Driving Tips
Road Trip on a Budget: 36 Tips to Save Money in Europe
The Best Printable Road Trip Checklists
150+ Road Trip Songs: Your Ultimate Driving Playlist
Podcasts for Road Trips: 26 to Keep You Entertained
Road Trip Snacks: 32 Ideas for Your Next Trip
113 Road Trip Quotes to Inspire Your Next Trip
You must have at least three months remaining on your passport (issued in the past ten years) at your intended date of departure from Europe. If you’re traveling to Ireland , your passport must remain valid for the duration of your stay (UK citizens do not need a passport to visit Ireland, which is in the Common Travel Area).
You must have at least 3rd party insurance for your vehicle.
Citizens of non-EU third countries may require an International Driving Permit for driving in Europe . You can check whether you need an IDP here .
Most of Europe drives on the right, except the United Kingdom which drives on the left.
Most European countries, especially those with mountains, have rules about snow tires and snow chains. Make sure you check these rules if you’re taking a road trip to Europe in colder weather.
You may want to consider carrying an electronic toll pass for the duration of your European road trip itinerary. These devices deduct the toll fees from a credit card automatically, meaning you don’t have to stop at a booth or barrier.
Many cities across Europe have low emissions zones, which can be easy to stray into accidentally. The Urban Access Regulation in Europe website has information on a country and city-by-city basis, to help you plan your trip. They also share links for purchasing LEZ and ULEZ stickers online.
Make sure you’re aware of the specific rules for each European country that you intend to visit. Some have obscure rules about driving in flip-flops or eating road trip snacks at the wheel! You can find more information about the rules of the road and what to carry in your vehicle here .
Although it is strongly advised, you are not required to have breakdown cover. UK registered vehicles may be able to add this to an existing policy or take out a policy for the duration of the trip. If you’re hiring a car to road trip around Europe, make sure to check breakdown arrangements with the car rental company.

Looking for more Europe itinerary ideas? Check out these top posts…

Road Trips from London: The 6 Best Routes to Explore

Road Trip Belgium: Fall In Love With Europe’s Hidden Gem

Stelvio Pass: The Best Mountain Road in Italy?

Spain Road Trip: 8 Amazing Routes for an Epic Trip

Croatia Road Trips: Five Incredible Routes

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About The Author

Izzy Nicholls

8 thoughts on “europe road trip – 24 incredible routes”.

Hi Jim Your plans sound really exciting! I’ve emailed you regarding UK and European motorhome routes, hope you have a great summer!

My wife and I are planning to do just what you to have done this summer. Is it possible to get a map of where you went (routing). This is so we can coordinate it with your blogs. Be blessed in everything you do.

Hey Harve great to hear from you, sounds like your plans are coming on nicely. Good luck and maybe we’ll see each other on the road some day!

Thanks for providing this great planning resource guide! A great way to spend a cold February afternoon with a glass of wine in hand… dreaming of trips to come. Fingers crossed for early Fall 2021 or sooner. We have purchased a new camping car and what great inspiration you have provided. Harve in the USA.

Hi Kanika Thanks for your comment. Give a road trip a go, you might be surprised by how much you enjoy it, let us know how you get on! Izzy

I personally don’t like road trips but will surely try this adventure as well, after reading your blog I got quiet motivated about it and would love to try, will share this with my friends and family as well

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Your Europe itinerary: 14 routes to explore the continent

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written by Dre Roelandt

updated 16.08.2024

You can’t expect to fit everything Europe has to offer into one trip and we don’t suggest you try. For those taking a big, extended trip around the continent you could join a few countries together. You'll find that the best Europe itinerary is one that allows time to explore, relax, and take in the sights. Here's a collection of our favourite routes in Europe.

1. Britain and Ireland

2. france and switzerland, 3. the netherlands and belgium, 4. germany and austria, 5. spain and morocco, 7. slovenia, 8. balearic islands island hopping, 9. the balkans, 12. portugal, 14. czechia and hungary, planning the best europe itinerary.

This two week itinerary will take you through England, Northern Ireland and Ireland. Start in London, on day one. Explore iconic sights like Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London on day two . Then, head to Dublin for a change of scenery.

You’ll spend day three exploring O'Connell Street, Trinity College, and more, capped with a lively evening at Temple Bar. Day four takes you to Belfast via Newgrange Passage Tomb and St. Peter’s Cathedral, followed by natural wonders like Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge and Giant’s Causeway on day five .

Meander through charming towns like Sligo and Westport on days six and seven , discovering Connemara National Park and Kylemore Abbey. Day eight brings a visit to Galway's Aran Islands and Cliffs of Moher.

Continue with a stroll through Killarney National Park on day nine and scenic drives along the Ring of Kerry on days ten and eleven . Wrap up with visits to the Rock of Cashel and Blarney Castle on day twelve before bidding farewell to Dublin. Read more .

This 10 day itinerary will take you through France and Switzerland. On the first day , Paris welcomes you with open arms, with a tour of the Eiffel Tower and a stroll through the vast Champ de Mars. On the second day you’ll explore the Louvre's treasures and the timeless beauty of Notre-Dame Cathedral.

On the third day you’ll visit the Loire Valley, where the grandeur of Château de Chambord awaits alongside delightful local wine tastings in a charming chateau. On the fourth day , you’ll explore Bordeaux's lively city, followed by a blissful coastal escape to Lacanau or Cap Ferret on the fifth day .

The sixth day brings sun-soaked relaxation on the Côte d’Azur, and unwinds in Nice. The seventh day is spent in Monaco before a returning to Nice for seaside dining.

The eighth day is spent with scenic riverside strolls in Lyon, while the ninth day transitions to Zurich for exploration of its Old Town. Finally, on the tenth day , you’ll have free time Zurich before jetting home.

Dealing with the complexities of your first trip to Europe? Our comprehensive planning guide will simplify the process and ensure you are well-prepared.

Chateau de Saumur, Loire Valley, France © Alexander Demyanenko/Shutterstock

This 9 day itinerary will take you through the best of the Netherlands and Belgium. Day one kicks off as you touch down at Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam. Once you've settled in, it's time to hit the water with a Canal Cruise, soaking in the city.

Rise and shine on day two for a morning exploration of Amsterdam, followed by a guided tour of must-see spots like the Heineken Experience and the ice-cool XtraCold Icebar.

Day three brings countryside bliss with a scenic tour to Zaanse Schans, Volendam, and Marken. Get ready to fall in love with those picturesque Dutch landscapes!

Next stop: Brussels. Day four treats you to a smooth ride to your hotel, where you'll kick back and relax.

Indulgence is the name of the game on day five , with sweet visits to the Belgian Chocolate Village and a hoppy Belgian Beer Tasting in Brussels.

Days six to eight are spent in Ghent. Dive into its history with a walking tour, hop over to Bruges for a day trip, and soak up some leisure time in this charming city.

Wrapping up on day nine , bid adieu to Ghent with some final exploration before your ride back to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport. Read more .

brussels-grand-place-shutterstock_660874609

This itinerary will take you through the best of Germany and Austria.

Begin your journey in Munich on the first day . On day two , hop on a morning train to Salzburg for a private walking tour. Explore St. Peter’s Monastery, Mozart House, Mirabell Gardens, and the Baroque Old Town.

Day three is all about relaxing in Zell am See after another train transfer. Day four ? Your call—relax or dive into optional activities in Zell Am See.On the fifth day , journey to Kitzbühel by train for more leisure time or extend your stay in Zell Am See.

In Kitzbühel on day six , explore Innsbruck during a transfer to Garmisch-Partenkirchen, stopping at hotspots like the Golden Roof and Swarovski Crystal Worlds.

Days seven to eight are spent in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, including a must-see at Neuschwanstein Castle on day seven. Wrap it all up on day eight with a ride back to Munich airport. Read more .

munich-christmas-market-shutterstock_165818693

Pack your bags for this itinerary across Spain and Morocco in just five days.

Touch down in Madrid on day one , where you'll dive straight into stops at the Royal Palace, Almudena Cathedral, Plaza Mayor, and Puerta del Sol, capped off with a feast at a local tapas joint.

Day two kicks off with more of Madrid at the Prado Museum and Retiro Park before hopping a high-speed train to Seville. Check into your hotel and soak in the sights of Seville Cathedral and Giralda tower, topped off with a fiery flamenco show and dinner in Santa Cruz.

On day three , it's off to Morocco. Discover the wonders of Tangier, from the Kasbah to mouthwatering Moroccan cuisine. Day four brings a market frenzy in Tangier before cruising to Chefchaouen for some serious photo ops amidst its iconic blue streets and a classic dinner.

Wrap it up on day five with a final wander in Chefchaouen before heading back to Tangier to catch your flight home or continue further into Morocco .

If you're planning a trip to Spain, don't miss our Spain itineraries and information on how to get there .

seville-plaza-de-espana-shutterstock_546660205

This itinerary is an excuse to check off those Italian must-sees with a whirlwind tour of Rome, Florence, and Venice. Day one starts in Rome with a Vatican and Sistine Chapel visit, followed by a stroll through Centro Storico hitting up gems like the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and Spanish Steps. Don't forget to refuel with a tasty lunch before hitting the Galleria Borghese.

Day two is all about Rome's ancient vibes—early birds catch the Coliseum and Forum Romanum. On day three , catch a train to Florence and spend the afternoon soaking in the Arno River scene and crossing the iconic Ponte Vecchio.

Day four is Florence central—hit up those top museums and churches. Take a scenic detour to San Gimignano for some Tuscan charm on day five .

On day six , hop a train to Venice for a leisurely afternoon of getting happily lost in its maze-like streets and canals. Wrap it all up on day seven with visits to the Doge's Palace and a leisurely stroll in St. Mark's Square. Read more .

Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Flower in Florence © Shutterstock

On this 7 day itinerary, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the treasures of Slovenia. Touch down at Ljubljana Airport on day one . Once you're all settled, hit downtown Ljubljana for an evening stroll and local cuisine.

Day two kicks off with a hearty breakfast, followed by a stroll with a local guide to check out the city's hotspots at your own pace. On day three , bid farewell to Ljubljana as you journey towards the Slovenian Coast, visiting the enchanting Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle along the way, and enjoying an authentic Slovenian lunch before arriving in Portorož.

Day four is dedicated to exploring Piran with a walking guide followed by some free time in Portorož and a sunset wine tasting in Slovenian Istria. Day five takes you on a trip through the Soca River Valley, exploring landmarks like the WW1 German Charnel House and Kozjak waterfall before landing in Bled.

Day six is all about Lake Bled—Pletna boat rides, Bled Castle visits, and a jaunt through Vintgar Gorge. Wrap it up on day seven with a departure from Ljubljana Airport. Read more .

Set sail for a week of Balearic bliss, hopping from Mallorca to Menorca , Ibiza , and Formentera .

Start in in Palma de Mallorca on the first day, exploring historic gems like Palma Cathedral and the Royal Palace of La Almudaina. Wind down with a stroll through the Old Town for dinner.

On day two, soak up panoramic views from Bellver Castle and check out Valldemossa's Royal Charterhouse. Day three is spent in Sóller, nestled in the UNESCO-listed Serra de Tramuntana.

Day four brings you to Ibiza—hit up Dalt Vila's historic spots before diving into the island's famous nightlife. On day five, it's beach time in Ibiza, plus a ferry trip to Formentera's crystal-clear waters.

On day six you’ll make your way to Menorca for a taste of Mahón's history and cuisine. Finally, on day seven, soak in Ciutadella's beauty and relax on its tranquil beaches. Wrap it up with a farewell dinner, cherishing the serene vibe of Menorca.

Sant Antoni Sunset, Ibiza, Balearic Islands

This Balkan itinerary begins with the first day spent in Bucharest.

Day two sees you exploring the coastal gem of Constanta, with a half-day guided city tour taking you through its charming old town. Try the local seafood at a local restaurant or unwind at your hotel.

On day three , you’ll cross into Bulgaria via Vama Veche, stopping for some fun in this lively Romanian destination before exploring Balchik palace and its enchanting gardens.

Days four to six are a beach lover's paradise at Sunny Beach, where you'll soak up the sun and explore nearby treasures. Highlights include a half-day excursion to Nessebar to sightseeing in Burgas. You can also spend these days exploring Sozopol, Beglik Tash, and the UNESCO Heritage site of the Madara Rider.

Wrap up your journey on the seventh day with a return to Bucharest. Read more .

Palace of Parliament and fountain on Piata Uniri, Bucharest, Romania

10. Greece

On this week long trip , you’ll get to discover the best of classical Greece. Touch down in Athens on day one , immersing yourself in over 3,000 years of history. After transfering to your city centre accommodation, dive into Athens' lively ambiance at your leisure.

Day two starts with a guided tour through Syntagma Square, the iconic Acropolis, and the charming Plaka district, concluding with dinner and an olive oil tasting in Kolonaki.

On day three , you’ll hop in a car from central Athens to uncover the ancient wonders of Epidaurus and Nafplio, passing through the Corinth Canal and exploring historic sites like Epidaurus's Ancient Theatre and Nafplio's picturesque Syntagma Square.

Days four to five will lead you to Olympia, where the Temple of Zeus and a vineyard tour await. Venture onward on the sixth day to Delphi, followed by an overnight stay in Meteora, where Byzantine monasteries perch on towering cliffs.

Experience Meteora on the seventh day before returning to Athens for a final day of exploration, culminating in a transfer to the airport for your journey home. Read more .

This five day Poland itinerary starts in Warsaw, where you’ll begin by delving into the city's past at the Warsaw Old Town and the immersive Warsaw Uprising Museum. On day two , you’ll bask in the greenery of Łazienki Park and marvel at the imposing Palace of Culture and Science.

Next up, Kraków awaits on day three , where UNESCO-listed treasures like the Old Town and majestic Wawel Castle beckon. Here you’ll explore the poignant history of the Jewish Quarter before day four leads you to Oskar Schindler's Enamel Factory Museum and a serene riverside walk along the Vistula.

Cap off your adventure on day five with a half-day excursion to the extraordinary Wieliczka Salt Mine before bidding Poland adieu.

Ready for your trip? See our other Poland itineraries for inspiration.

This seven day itinerary covers the most essential spots in Portugal.Touch down at Lisbon International Airport on day one , where you'll have the freedom to wander the vibrant streets of Lisbon at your own pace.

Day two brings a private half-day tour, unveiling Lisbon's cultural treasures like Liberty Avenue and Alfama Quarter, culminating in a mesmerising Fado Show brimming with local music and cuisine.

After breakfast on day three , set off on a full-day escapade along Lisbon's breathtaking coastline, exploring Sintra, Cabo da Roca, Cascais, and Estoril before returning to Lisbon.

On day four , hop on a journey to Porto, making a scenic stop at the Serra do Bussaco Mountain Range to visit the Carmelite monastery, then enjoy a leisurely afternoon in Porto.

Days five to six invite you to immerse yourself in Porto's allure, from private tours to strolling through Mercado do Bolhão. Opt for a scenic Douro Cruise of Six Bridges on day five before bidding farewell to Porto International Airport on day seven . Read more .

Colourful Sintra, Portugal palace Palácio da Pena © Shutterstock

This week long itinerary will take you through Turkey’s best travel gems.Touch down in Istanbul and settle into your city hotel on day one , where you'll have time to explore the bustling streets. Day two begins with a full-day tour of Istanbul's Old City, showcasing iconic landmarks like the Blue Mosque and the Grand Bazaar, with lunch options to sample local cuisine.

On day three , fly to Cappadocia for days of adventure amidst rock-carved churches and optional hot air balloon rides.

Day four takes you on a scenic journey to Pamukkale via Konya, stopping at historical sites along the way.

Spend days five and six exploring Pamukkale's natural wonders before transferring to Kusadasi. Your trip concludes with a day tour of Ephesus Ancient City on the final day . Read more .

Uchhisar fortress and colorful hot air balloons flying over Pigeon valley in Cappadocia, Turkey © Shutterstock

On this eight day itinerary , you’ll be taken through fairytale Czechia and Hungary, starting on day one with a flight to Prague. Take this moment to unwind and prep for the days ahead.

Day two kicks off with a guided tour, leading you through Prague's storied past, from Gothic alleys to grand Baroque edifices, including must-sees like Prague Castle and the Astronomical Clock. Then, embark on a delectable four-hour food tour, savoring Czech delights and uncovering charming cafes.

Day three is a full-day jaunt to Cesky Krumlov, unveiling its fairytale castle and the captivating Egon Schiele Art Centrum. On day four , delve into Kutna Hora's eerie Bone Church and the majestic Church of St. Barbara before returning to Prague.

Transitioning to Budapest on day five , you'll explore Bratislava en route, settling in for the Budapest leg for days six and seven . Highlights include a private guided stroll through Budapest and a day trip to the scenic Danube Bend.

Wrapping up on day eight , bid farewell as you head from Budapest Airport homeward, cherishing the memories of your Central European escapade. Read more .

You can skip the hours and hours of research it takes to create the perfect itinerary and instead allow us to handle the details. Our tailor made trips are designed by local travel experts, and are completely customisable. We handle the planning and booking, and offer support while you are on your trip 24/7. See some of our existing itineraries for inspiration.

Looking for more ideas for your holiday? Also explore our guide to the best beach destinations for holidays in Europe .

Dre Roelandt is originally from the United States but lives and works in Berlin, Germany. Dre is a freelance writer and artist with a passion for travelling. They are an in-house Senior Content Editor at Rough Guides.

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Traveled in June 2019

Places You’ll See

Free days to explore Paris, Lucerne, Rome, Berlin and Amsterdam
Visit Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany
See the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa in Italy
Locally guided tours in Rome, Budapest, Vienna and Prague
Taste champagne in France and cruise the canals in Amsterdam
Introduction
Day 1 Start of tour in London
Day 2 London - Paris
Day 3 Paris: Free Day
Day 4 Champagne region - Luxembourg - Heidelberg
Day 5 Black Forest - Lake Titisee - Rhine Falls - Lucerne region
Day 6 Lucerne: Free Day
Day 7 Liechtenstein - Neuschwanstein Castle - Innsbruck
Day 8 Modena - Siena
Day 9 Pisa - Florence - Siena
Day 10 Siena - Rome
Day 11 Rome: Free Day
Day 12 Rome - Venice
Day 13 Venice - Ljubljana - Zagreb
Day 14 Zagreb - Budapest
Day 15 Budapest - Bratislava - Vienna
Day 16 Vienna: Free Day
Day 17 Vienna - Prague
Day 18 Dresden - Berlin
Day 19 Berlin: Free Day
Day 20 Berlin - Amsterdam
Day 21 Amsterdam: Free Day
Day 22 Amsterdam - Bruges - London

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M Monte Gerald · 23rd July 2023 The true hero of our tour was the coach driver Silvian. He worked tirelessly to load and unload all the tour participants’ luggage, and then drove hundreds of miles to our destinations. He got us there safely and on time. The downside to the tour was... Show more Trip date: June 2023

J JeanetteCuzzolini · 15th August 2019 Luke was Fantastic and full of energy and knowledge. Trip date: June 2019

C Christine · 7th August 2019 Happy days! Good times! Lovely day! This will be my forever memory of Luke. He is a terrific tour leader. Ever so helpful, cheerful and so patient with us. Never a dull moment in this tour. And our driver , "King" Steven was awesome! They make a great... Show more Trip date: June 2019

G GregMacklow · 10th July 2018 The entire tour exceeded our expectations and Karina MERKEL our Expat tour guide was exceptional. Her enthusiasm, positive nature and willingness to go above and beyond to deliver a first class tour for everyone shone through. Mark the driver was very... Show more Trip date: June 2018

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What our customers ask about this tour

Whilst internal flights are covered for certain itineraries, you will have to make your way to the meeting point for the start of your tour. When booking flights be mindful of departure times and possible delays. Tip: We suggest that you start comparing prices the moment your deposit is paid to avoid costly flights.

We have a set minimum age of 10 for our tours, but we're happy to consider younger children on a case-by-case basis. Just let us know your request, and we'll do our best to accommodate it. Expat Explore reserves the right to accept or decline the request at our discretion. We want to ensure everyone has a great time exploring with us!

We make every effort to include local cuisine on our tours to ensure an authentic experience for you. You'll receive an email before the tour begins, where we'll ask for your dietary preferences. We always have a vegetarian option, and we'll work hard to accommodate any other dietary needs or preferences you may have.

Contactless payment is widely accepted across Europe – it’s best to bring a payment card with no overseas withdrawal fees. * Keep in mind that certain optionals are payable in cash to your tour leader whilst on tour. We suggest that you talk to your Tour Leader about when & where to draw cash to pay for the optional excursions.

While Expat Explore cannot assist with booking pre or post-tour accommodation, we recommend Booking.com for affordable accommodation options prior to and after the tour. If hotel information is available, we can provide you with the details in advance so that you can book accommodation at or nearby the start hotel. Please request this by sending a message through on the conversation page.

While Expat Explore endeavours to stay current on all major entry requirements, we are not a registered visa agent. We are, however, able to make things a little easier by providing you with the required supporting documents for a visa application once your tour is paid in full. It is a requirement of the embassies that tours are paid for in full before visa support documentation is requested and applications are made. When you have made the final payment for your booking, simply reach out to our Customer Support Team to request your visa support documents and confirm which embassy you will be applying to.

This is up to you and will vary depending on how much you wish to spend on snacks, drinks, souvenirs etc. We do not include entrance fees to attractions and museums. We do, however, provide you with free time to see everything you want, and our tour leaders will have all the information on pricing and locations so you can manage your own budget. Please refer to your tour-specific pre-departure information and optional excursions guide for further details.

It's your responsibility to arrange sufficient travel insurance for your trip. When you travel with Expat Explore, both you and your personal belongings do so at your own risk. A comprehensive insurance policy should cover medical expenses for illness or accidents before or during the holiday, as well as reimbursement for lost holiday funds due to cancellation, curtailment, or other insurable events. Make sure there are no exclusions that would limit coverage for the activities included in your tour. We generally recommend WorldNomads because they cover a wide variety of nationalities, but you are welcome to use any supplier that offers you the most comprehensive plan. You are able to obtain travel insurance through one of TourRadars partners, XCover. Please reach out to receive a quote.

We embrace travelers of all ages and backgrounds, prioritizing attitude and mindset over age restrictions. However, our tours are fast-paced and jam-packed with experiences. Regrettably, individuals with mobility limitations or those using wheelchairs may find this tour challenging. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring quaint towns and navigating cobblestone streets. We want every traveler to fully enjoy their journey, so we encourage reviewing the itinerary carefully before making your booking decision.

When you book for more than one person, we will by default group you together in the same room(s), unless you request single supplements or specifically request us not to. If there are unequal numbers (3, 5, 7 etc.) then the remaining traveller will be roomed with another passenger of the same gender, unless you opt to add a single supplement (subject to availability) to your booking. Please note that minors under the age of 18 cannot share with another traveller outside of your group's booking. If you are making separate bookings and would like to share the same room(s), please send us an email with the booking references for each of the travellers and the details of your preferred rooming allocation.

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Currencies € Euro Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg and Netherlands kn Kuna Croatia Kč Czech Koruna Czech Republic Ft Forint Hungary Fr. Swiss Franc Liechtenstein and Switzerland £ Pound Sterling England

As a traveller from USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa you will need an adaptor for types C, E, F, L, J, G. As a traveller from England you will need an adaptor for types C, E, F, L, J.

These are only indications, so please visit your doctor before you travel to be 100% sure.
Tick-borne encephalitis - Recommended for Austria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, Slovakia, Slovenia and Switzerland. Ideally 6 months before travel.
Hepatitis B - Recommended for Croatia, Czech Republic, Hungary, Slovakia and Slovenia. Ideally 2 months before travel.
Hepatitis A - Recommended for Czech Republic, Hungary, Slovakia and Slovenia. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
For any tour departing before 9th November 2024 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after 9th November 2024, a minimum payment of 10% is required to confirm your booking with Expat Explore Travel. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 50 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
Some departure dates and prices may vary and Expat Explore Travel will contact you with any discrepancies before your booking is confirmed.
The following cards are accepted for "Expat Explore Travel" tours: Visa, Maestro, Mastercard, American Express or PayPal. TourRadar does NOT charge you an extra fee for using any of these payment methods.
Your money is safe with TourRadar, as we only pay the tour operator after your tour has departed.
TourRadar is an authorised Agent of Expat Explore Travel. Please familiarise yourself with the Expat Explore Travel payment, cancellation and refund conditions .
Insurance Unless otherwise mentioned, TourRadar does not provide travel insurance. We do however recommend purchasing it through our tried and trusted partner, World Travel Nomads .
Accessibility Some tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveller, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For any enquiries, you can contact our customer support team , who are ready and waiting to help you.
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The Dare announces 2024 UK and European tour

It comes in celebration of the debut album ‘What’s Wrong With New York?’

The Dare has announced details of a UK and European tour, set to take place later this year.

READ MORE: The Dare – ‘What’s Wrong With New York?’ review: an effective if uninventive throwback

Revealed today (September 18), the new tour dates come in celebration of the musician’s debut album ‘What’s Wrong With New York?’

Arriving via Polydor/Republic Records on September 6, the artist – real name Harrison Patrick Smith – then kicked off his first-ever North American headline tour. These dates included a sold-out show at New York’s Webster Hall last week.

Now, he has announced details of a UK and European leg of the tour, which is set to kick off later this year.

Seven new shows have been shared, all of which take place in November. They kick off with an opening night at the Gretchen venue in Berlin (13), followed by two shows in Paris, held at the Silencio and Badaboum venues on November 15 and 16 respectively.

From there, The Dare will play one show at the Bitterzoet in Amsterdam on the 18th, before heading over to the UK for three live dates. The first of which is at London’s Heaven on November 20, followed by a show in Leeds the following night and a closing gig at The Arch in Brighton on November 23.

The Dare’s UK and European tour dates are:

NOVEMBER 13 – Berlin, Germany @ Gretchen 15 – Paris, France @ Silencio 16 – Paris, France @ Badaboum 18 – Amsterdam, Netherlands @ Bitterzoet 20 – London, UK @ Heaven 21 – Leeds, UK @ Belgrave Music Hall 23 – Brighton, UK @ The Arch

The Dare recorded ‘What’s Wrong With New York?’ over the last year between his home and his studio in New York. It features his huge lead single ‘Girls’, as well as other singles including ‘You’re Invited,’ ‘Perfume’ and ‘Good Time.’

It also came with a star-studded list of collaborations, including appearances from the likes of Dylan Brady, Emile Haynie, Romil Hemnani, Chris Greatti, Isaac Eiger and more. Before the release, Smith reached his first UK Number One with the Charli xcx and Billie Eilish remix of ‘Guess’ , which he produced for the deluxe edition of ‘Brat’.

‘What’s Wrong With New York?’ was given a three-star review by NME , with Jordan Bassett writing: “It’s tempting to tell Smith that Murphy wants his shtick back (along with his suit), but the pastiche is often effective, at least.”

“His defiantly dumb breakthrough track ‘Girls’ is one of the best singles of 2006 and ‘Movement’ builds to a crunching, multi-layered cacophony that demonstrates greater musical sophistication than he’s often given credit for,” it added.

“Still, there’s something a little depressing about music that’s this nakedly backwards-facing. Beneath the hedonism, anxiety thrums through ‘What’s Wrong with New York?’ – hence, perhaps, Smith’s dream of his teeth falling out – and he’s clearly captured a wish to return to a time before Covid, before fake news, before bots and pile-ons and information overload. But you’d be better off just listening to LCD.”

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Iron maiden announce 50th anniversary world tour for 2025-2026.

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INDIO, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 06: (EDITORIAL USE ONLY) (L-R) Dave Murray, Adrian Smith, and Bruce ... [+] Dickinson of Iron Maiden perform onstage during the Power Trip music festival at Empire Polo Club on October 06, 2023 in Indio, California. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for Power Trip)

Heavy Metal legends Iron Maiden have announced an ambitious World tour for 2025 and 2026, one which celebrates 50 years since the U.K. band formed. The Run For Your Lives world tour will see the band perform hits off their first nine studio albums from their 1980 debut Iron Maiden to 1992’s Fear of the Dark (the last album vocalist Bruce Dickinson performed on before exiting the band and then later returning in 1999).

So far Iron Maiden has only revealed the U.K. and European dates for their world tour, which will have the band performing across 27 stadiums between May and August of next year. Provided the tour announcement does list both 2025 and 2026, the band will likely announce a North American leg in addition to other continents in the near future.

Members from Iron Maiden have commented on the upcoming tour, with vocalist Bruce Dickinson stating, “Next year is a very special one for IRON MAIDEN and we’re going to be giving our fans a once-in-a-lifetime live experience. This is a tour that’s gonna put a smile on your face and a cheer in your throat. If you’ve seen us before, then get ready to take that experience to a whole new level. If you’ve never seen us before, then what the hell have you been waiting for? Now’s your chance to find out what you’ve been missing! IRON MAIDEN’s definitely gonna get ya!”

The band’s longtime manager Rod Smallwood also commented stating, “50 years of Maiden and I have seen 46 of them! With well over 100 million albums sold and almost 2500 shows in 64 countries and counting, to countless millions of fans, we are all still loving every second and consider every tour a new challenge to bring something different and exciting to our fans. And for this very special one we’re pulling out all the stops!

While Iron Maiden are no strangers to ambitious world tours, this tour announcement may come as a surprise to some fans, specifically those who’ve speculated the band is nearing its ‘farewell tour’ era. A fair number of bands from the same era as Iron Maiden, namely acts KISS, Ozzy Osbourne, and Aerosmith have all embarked on farewell tours and closed the book on their touring careers. After this announcement it’s clear that Iron Maiden isn’t at that stage quite yet, and they still have a fair amount of gas left in the tank to continue delivering their one of a kind live spectacle.

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Italy next to face storm after 21 killed in Europe floods

Intense storms battering central Europe are now reaching Italy, where warnings for heavy rain, strong winds and floods have been issued for much of the country.

Floods are already reported in the central city of Pescara, while the Italian meteorological service's weather alerts apply from the northern coast of Emilia-Romagna to the far-south.

The warnings come as flooding has devastated parts of Poland , the Czech Republic, Romania and Austria this week, leaving at least 21 people dead.

Authorities in Croatia, Hungary and Slovakia are also warning of flooding in the coming days.

The significant flooding has been caused by Storm Boris, which brought vast amounts of rain and snow at the weekend.

More than 5,000 soldiers have been deployed to help people in southern Poland, including the 40,000 residents evacuated from the town of Nysa.

The flood waters are receding in some places in the region and spreading in others, with the extent of the damage revealed in Polish towns like Glucholazy.

The town's main bridge collapsed after being damaged by the swollen river, while many of its streets have been covered in mud.

Polish police on Tuesday confirmed at least six people have died, cautioning against “false information” following media reports that put the total number of people killed at more than a dozen.

The country's prime minister, Donald Tusk, has declared a month-long state of natural disaster - with the worst flooding expected to hit the city of Wroclaw on Wednesday.

A map showing rainfall density across the affected areas of Europe between 9 and 15 September. The highest rainfall of over 200mm is concentrated over central Austria and the Polish-Czech border. More than 150mm has been recorded in southern Poland, much of the Czech Republic, Slovenia, Croatia and Montengro.

Areas along the Czech-Polish border are among the worst-hit, where 15,000 people have been evacuated in Czech Republic as well.

The country has experienced the worst flooding in over 27 years, according to local NGO Člověk v tísn.

Ostrava has been one of the most-affected towns, after the river Oder burst its banks following heavy downpours on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, water levels are continuing to rise fast on the River Danube in Slovakia and Hungary, with the Slovak capital Bratislava and its Hungarian counterpart Budapest preparing for possible flooding.

Emergency services and volunteers, in some places backed up by the army, are also working round the clock to protect low-lying settlements in the region.

From Above - Storm Boris

Reuters A drone view shows the flood-affected area in Ostrava, many houses are submerged entirely or up to the second floor

Austrian authorities have closed sections of the Danube to shipping traffic over the elevated water levels along the vital waterway, according to reports in local media.

The Croatian Meteorological and Hydrological Service has warned the river could experience an "extremely rare" water increase - and confirmed plans are in place to put up flood barriers if necessary.

In Italy, the country's National Civil Protection Service has also issued yellow alerts for nearly 50 regions tomorrow, warning there is a risk of storms, landslides and floods.

Prof Hannah Cloke, a meteorologist from the University of Reading, told the BBC that river levels had peaked in most of the smaller, upland rivers of flood-hit eastern Europe.

"Some bigger rivers, such as the Danube and Oder, are still rising in parts and will not start to go down again until late Tuesday or Wednesday, and will remain much higher than normal," she added.

BBC Weather forecasts are pinpointing the Emilia-Romagna and Marche regions as areas of greatest concern.

The region could see one or two months' worth of rainfall in the next three days alone, and there are major concerns over the prospect of flooding.

Firefighters in Pescara, Abruzzo say they have already received more than 200 calls for help after heavy rainfall triggered flooding.

In Romania, more rain is forecast in the eastern Carpathians, endangering towns and villages in Galati and Vaslui counties, which have already been hard hit.

Getty Images More than a dozens soldiers in uniform are piling up sand bags and plastic sheets as a temporary flood barrier

Extreme rainfall is becoming more frequent and intense across central Europe, as across much of the world.

While events in central Europe fit with expectations of more extreme rainfall in a warming world, it is not yet possible to quantify exactly how much of a role climate change has played.

To know for certain, that requires a full scientific analysis of the natural and human influences - which can take weeks or months.

But climate scientists have been warning for years about extreme rainfall events like these occurring as the planet warms.

A warmer atmosphere holds more moisture, leading to more intense rainfall.

Warmer oceans also lead to more evaporation, feeding storm systems.

For every 1C rise in the global average temperature, the atmosphere is able to hold about 7% more moisture.

Prof Cloke told the BBC experts expect climate change to lead to worse flooding in the coming years if global temperatures continue to rise, as "extreme summer downpours are heavier and fill up rivers more quickly".

She also noted: "Only a few weeks ago, parts of southern and eastern Europe were suffering from droughts, heatwaves and fires".

"We have gone out of the frying pan and into the hot water."

BMW PGA Championship: DP World Tour Fantasy ones to watch

Feel closer to the action on the DP World Tour by competing against golf fans from around the world in our official Fantasy game as the Back 9 continues with the return of the Rolex Series at the BMW PGA Championship .

To play Fantasy DP World Tour, click here .

One of the founding events on the inaugural DP World Tour schedule in 1972, its list of champions features some of the most recognisable figures of the game.

Ryan Fox won the biggest title of his career at the West Course 12 months ago, with a closing birdie helping him to a one-shot victory over English duo Aaron Rai and Tyrrell Hatton.

Among those also teeing it up are 2023 Ryder Cup-winning team-mates Robert MacIntyre, Tommy Fleetwood, Shane Lowry, Justin Rose and Nicolai Højgaard, while Adam Scott, Byeong Hun An and Si Woo Kim bring international interest as they warm up for next week's Presidents Cup in Canada.

Billy Horschel, who won this event in 2021, looks to continue his resurgence in form which included a tied second finish at The Open earlier this summer, while he is joined in the field by fellow Americans Peter Malnati and Mark Hubbard.

If you have not done so already, you can sign up to play the official 2024 DP World Tour Fantasy game here and submit your six-man team before round one gets under way on Thursday.

The 2024 season-long winner will win a trip to the DP World Tour Championship in Dubai next year, enjoy a lesson with a DP World Tour professional and a round of golf on the Earth Course at Jumeirah Golf Estates. For more information on this amazing prize and others, read here .

Fantasy Insight : In the early stages of players picking their teams, Adam Scott, who will represent the International Team at the Presidents Cup next week, is currently most chosen, featuring in almost 70% of squads.

Robert MacIntyre, who won his first Rolex Series title at the Genesis Scottish Open in July, is the next most-selected at just under 66%, while his fellow Ryder Cup-winning team-mate Tommy Fleetwood is third in just over 63% of teams.

Former champions Billy Horschel and Shane Lowry round off the top five, with 60% and just over 50%.

Here, we pick out three players in action this week who are worth considering for your Fantasy team selections.

Favourite - Rory McIlroy

Beware the wounded animal. After the disappointment of missing out on winning his national Open in his home County, this could well be the week that McIlroy puts the memories of some near misses this year behind him and claims a second BMW PGA Championship title. The champion of 2014 arrives as the Race to Dubai Rankings in Partnership with Rolex leader, and as the favourite among the bookies. A winner in both Dubai and the United States this year, the 35-year-old has finished in the top ten at Wentworth in each of the last four editions.

Form Horse - Rasmus Højgaard

To pick a man who won last time out as a Form Hose may seem a little on the nose but there are more reasons to go for Højgaard than his sensational victory at the Amgen Irish Open. The Dane now sits second on the Race to Dubai Rankings, the same position in which brother Nicolai finished last season and sibling rivalry could well provide inspiration for Rasmus to keep his foot down. After missing out on Dual Membership with the PGA TOUR last season, he started 2024 with five consecutive top 12s and since then has added two further top fives along with his fifth career victory.

Wild Card - Laurie Canter

It shows just how strong the field is this week at Wentworth Club that a player with a win in 2024 can be a Wild Card but less than 4% of players have Canter in their team. A long-time nearly man on the DP World Tour, Canter came through the Qualifying School in 2015, 16 and 17 before breaking out in the Covid-affected 2020 season with a top 20 finish on the Race to Dubai. He finished in the top 25 on the Rankings the following season, largely thanks to a runner-up finish at this event and while he missed the cut in 2022, he is clearly comfortable on the West Course. He has a second and two further top tens this season and a tie for 17th in Ireland last week was his best finish since his victory at the European Open.

Looking Back - Amgen Irish Open

With his victory at Royal County Down in Northern Ireland, Rasmus Højgaard amassed 176 points for the 1,283 (3.89%) players who picked him, with 42 making inroads on their competition by making him their captain.

Our Favourite Rory Mcllroy finished runner-up to Højgaard, while our Form Horse Robert MacIntyre finished tied fifth and Wild Card Rasmus Neergaard-Petersen - making his first DP World Tour start since gaining automatic promotion from the Challenge Tour - missed the cut.

Season so far - 2024 DP World Tour Fantasy Top 10 player rankings

Rolex Series

Ryan Fox hoping to rediscover 'calm' he felt during Wentworth win

Ryan Fox is hoping to rediscover the sense of calm he felt on his way to winning last year's BMW PGA Championship as he returns to Wentworth Club to defend his title.

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ENTERPRISE EARTH, DISTANT, THE LAST TEN SECONDS OF LIFE & HARBINGER Announce European Tour

Kicking off in January 2025.

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Distant robbed on tour, needs your help.

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IMAGES

Europe Map with Famous Sightseeing. Travel Guide. Vector illustration
49 Best Places To Visit On A Europe Road Trip
The Ultimate Road Trip Around Europe in One Cool Map
Europe Travel Map Guide
Europe travel map Royalty Free Vector Image
How to Plan a Trip to Europe (2-Week Europe Itinerary)

VIDEO

Europe Map New Update after 14 years
Pt 12 1607 Europe map France
Europe Map But Find The Mistakes
Europe Map In August 1994
Europe map timeline (2024-1000BC)(PART 1)🇪🇺#europe
Europe map timeline (2024-1000BC) (PART 1+PART 2 combined)🇪🇺#europe

COMMENTS

Map of Europe
Rough Guides® is a trademark owned by Apa Group with its headquarters at 7 Bell Yard London WC2A 2JR, United Kingdom. Plan your Eurotrip with an interactive travel map of Europe from Rough Guides. Use our Europe map to explore all the countries of the European continent.
Europe Trip Planner
Use our interactive Europe Trip Planner tool to create your own route. Use our Europe trip planner map to create your own self-guided route, including any major European destinations - plus some further afield including Russia and China! The map tool is interactive and super easy to use; you can make a plan without any obligation to book your ...
Europe trip planner: make a Europe itinerary & map
Visited my first 7 wonders of the world with Crown Tours and it was a superb experience 👍🏻 Have always loved watching the Roman history shows and this was top of the list when we are planning our Europe trip - definitely worthwhile to get access to the Arena (maybe even the underground tour) if you are into history of the Colosseum!
Europe Trip Planner & Multi-City Itinerary Builder
Triptile allows you to build complex multi-city trips in a few minutes. Build your trip. Support. $ USD. En. Looking for the easiest way to plan a trip to Europe? Build and book your itinerary in a matter of minutes with Triptile - #1 online trip builder for Europe.
Plan Your Vacation With Maps of Europe
Brandenburg, Bavaria, Rheinland-Pfalz, and Saxony, these are just some of the states in Germany that you can include in your travels. The country is made up of 16 states in total, including Berlin and Hamburg, which are really more like city-states. A map of the biggest German cities will aid your planning as well.
2 Weeks in Europe
Days 12 - 14: Rome. Your next stop in Italy, and the last stop on your Europe itinerary, is the Italian capital of Rome. Founded almost 3,000 years ago, Rome is absolutely stuffed full of historical wonders and attractions. We think that to do Rome justice, you should spend three days here.
Grand European Tour 2024
Book your 2024 European tour with confidence. Free 3 day booking hold and flexible changes. Visit grand European cities with a multi-center tour from Trafalgar. ... Trip map & itinerary. Day by day itinerary. 23 days itinerary trip from London to Paris visiting 11 countries and 27 cities Choose Your End Location .
Epic Europe road trip across 47 countries
Epic Europe road trip to 47 countries. Almost 27,000km of roads. Approximately 364h of driving time without stops. Over $1,600 in fuel spent. 47 countries, including 25 European Union members, Kosovo (which we count as an independent country despite the lack of recognition by the UN), the 3 countries in the Caucasus, Turkey and Russia, both of which are partially in Europe and mostly in Asia.
Europe Road Trip Planner: Best Road Trips in Europe
Read Our Taxi vs. Car Rental Comparison. To learn more about our company or request more information about renting a vehicle for your dream European road trip, call toll-free at 1-888-223-5555. Our representatives specialize in finding travelers the perfect vehicle at the guaranteed best rate and are available.
Europe Road Trip
Loire Valley Road Trip. Orleans - Blois - Tours - Angers - Nantes. Distance: 350km. Duration: 1 week. Drive Time: 6 hours. When: year-round. Centre-Val de Loire is a landlocked region, located to the southwest of the French capital Paris. As the name suggests this region is all about the magnificent river Loire.
Your Europe itinerary: 14 routes to explore the continent
Turkey. 14. Czechia and Hungary. Planning the best Europe itinerary. 1. Britain and Ireland. This two week itinerarywill take you through England, Northern Ireland and Ireland. Start in London, on day one. Explore iconic sights like Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London on day two.
The Best Europe Tours & Trips 2024/2025
Central Europe tours. 2,109 tours. Stroll through Prague's historic Old Town, marvel at Budapest's thermal baths, and cruise Vienna's Danube River. Visit Krakow's medieval squares, explore Berlin's rich history, and hike Slovenia's Julian Alps. Discover Bratislava's charming streets and taste beer in Munich.
Europe Travel Guide
A Grand Tour of Europe is an iconic trip for a reason: The continent packs an incredible amount of diversity into a relatively small space. Feast on pasta and gelato in Italy, chase the Northern Lights in Scandinavia, and island hop in Greece. Or step off-the-beaten-path to see Romania's haunting castles and the Baltics' charming coast.
1 Month in Europe: The Perfect Europe Itinerary
4. Nice, France. A great inclusion for an ultimate Europe itinerary, Nice gives you a chance to experience the famous French Riviera. Since Nice is a coastal city, it only makes sense to start with a good stroll along the Promenade des Anglais, which follows the city's waterfront.
3 Weeks in Europe: 15 Perfect Europe Itinerary Ideas [2024]
Most fairytale stories are plucked straight from the lovely and quaint villages scattered throughout France, Germany, and Austria. This 3 weeks Europe itinerary is just the ticket for a dreamy fairytale trip to see magical castles and enchanting storybook towns. Day 1-4: Paris, France. Day 5-7: Colmar + Riquewihr, France.
10 Best Fully Guided Tours in Europe 2024/2025
Europe Escape. 4.5 762 Reviews by TourRadar travelers. "Best express Europe tour .. 12 days - 15 cities - 7 countries- 9 hotels - it was fun - it was a marathon.". Areej Anees, traveled in July 2024. In-depth Cultural. Family.
5 Best European Tours 2024 & 2025
Rick Steves tours provide the best value for your trip to Europe. Our stress-free European vacations package together small groups, great guides, central hotels, all sightseeing — and memories to last a lifetime. Browse Rick's best Europe tours and vacation packages:
Best of Europe by Expat Explore Travel with 74 Tour Reviews (Code: EB
Best of Europe, a 22 days tour from London to Paris, Luxembourg and 25 destinations. Best Selection - Best Price - Trusted Payments. Shop 2,500 operators. 4.5 stars on ... Open map popup View Destinations. Highlights. Free days to explore Paris, Lucerne, Rome, Berlin and Amsterdam;
Europe Tours
Cruise through South America, India, and Egypt in relaxed luxury with Avalon. It's the only time we approve of letting the world pass you by! Visit Avalon Waterways. Globus offers escorted Europe tours to Italy, Britain, Ireland, Spain, France, Iceland & more! Explore our vacations to Europe today!
Best of Europe in 21 Days Tour
Single Supplement $1,175. Our classic, three-week Best of Europe tour packs more travel thrills into a single vacation than you can imagine. Starting in the Netherlands with your Rick Steves guide, you'll experience the best of Amsterdam, Germany's Rhine Valley and Romantic Road, Austria's Salzburg, canals of Venice, Renaissance Florence, the ...
European Railway Map
Eurail railway map. Plan your Eurail trip with our two-page map, showing the rail routes covered by your Pass and which routes require reservations. Please note that routes may change during the year and this map doesn't show temporary disruptions. Visit the rail disruptions webpage for updates. (Map last updated on Sep 3 2024.)
3 Trending Winter European Destinations To Book Before They ...
Salzburg Is The Trendiest European Destination This Winter. Searches for winter vacations in the Austrian city of Salzburg increased by 135% this year, according to DFDS.
Rolling Quartz announce dates for 2025 Europe tour
Rolling Quartz's 2025 Europe tour will kick off in January 2025 with a concert in London. In the same month, the band will also play shows in Amsterdam, Paris, Barcelona and more.
The Dare announces 2024 UK and European tour
The Dare's UK and European tour dates are: NOVEMBER 13 - Berlin, Germany @ Gretchen 15 - Paris, France @ Silencio 16 - Paris, France @ Badaboum 18 - Amsterdam, Netherlands @ Bitterzoet
Valley
A visual map representation follows. Skip map. Show on map. End of map. Public transportation. Underground. U Schlesisches Tor. 0.4km. U1; U3; U Görlitzer Bahnhof. ... more about: Lake Street Dive - Good Together European Tour. Next date: Lake Street Dive Date: Sunday, 09/February/2025 20:00 Venue: Metropol Berlin Address: Nollendorfplatz 5 ...
Iron Maiden Announce 50th Anniversary World Tour For 2025-2026
Heavy metal titans Iron Maiden have announced an ambitious world tour for 2025-2026, revealing 27 U.K. and European dates slated for next summer.
Storm Boris: Italy braces for rain as 21 killed in Europe floods
Rescuers work at flooded areas in Czechowice-Dziedzice, south Poland Intense storms battering central Europe are now reaching Italy, where warnings for heavy rain, strong winds and floods have ...
BMW PGA Championship: DP World Tour Fantasy ones to watch
The 2024 season-long winner will win a trip to the DP World Tour Championship in Dubai next year, enjoy a lesson with a DP World Tour professional and a round of golf on the Earth Course at Jumeirah Golf Estates. ... two further top tens this season and a tie for 17th in Ireland last week was his best finish since his victory at the European ...
Enterprise Earth, Distant, the Last Ten Seconds of Life & Harbinger
Enterprise Earth, Distant, The Last Ten Seconds Of Life, and Harbinger will hit the road this upcoming January through March across Europe. The tour kicks off on January 30 at the Kulttempel in ...

Europe Trip Planner

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

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

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

Europe Trip Planner

Top attractions in Europe

Other notable attractions

Explore nearby places

All related maps of Europe

Europe throughout the year

Q&A about Europe

Global Trip Planner

Top destinations

Amalfi Coast

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2 Weeks in Europe – The Perfect Europe Itinerary

2 Week Europe Itinerary

Days 1 – 3: London

Where to stay in London

How to get to Paris from London

Days 4 – 6: Paris

Where to stay in Paris

How to get from Paris to Barcelona

Days 7- 9: Barcelona

Where to Stay in Barcelona

How to Get from Barcelona to Venice

Days 10 – 11: Venice

Where to Stay in Venice

How to Get from Venice to Rome

Days 12 – 14: Rome

Where to Stay in Rome

2 Week Europe Itinerary Map

2 Week Europe Itinerary Summary:

How to Get Around Europe

When to Visit Europe

Practical Advice for Travelling in Europe

Drinking Water

Walking Tours in Europe

Saving Money in Europe

Use City Passes

Book accommodation and transportation in advance

Invest in a Guidebook

Use Public Transport Effectively

Find restaurant deals

Further Reading for your Trip to Europe

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Grand European

3-Week Europe Tour from London to Amsterdam, Vienna, Rome and Paris

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How much is the deposit for a Trafalgar tour?

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Epic Europe road trip across 47 countries

Epic European road trip by the numbers

1. Dublin, Ireland

2. London, United Kingdom

3. Amsterdam, Netherlands

4. Brussels, Belgium

5. Luxembourg

6. Liechtenstein

7. Bern, Switzerland