The 11 BEST European Travel Itineraries (and How to Plan Them)

The 11 BEST European Travel Itineraries (and How to Plan Them)

planning your first big Europe trip or maybe 
your second. I’m Roger from priceoftravel.com and in this video I’m going to walk you through 
11 classic Europe itineraries that actually make sense with smart stops and famous stops to 
avoid. We’ll start with the iconic London and Paris combo, then hit some of the most scenic 
and exciting routes across Italy, France, Germany, Switzerland, and more. Each itinerary can work 
in 7 to 14 days and is easy to customize based on your own interests. and stick around to the 
end for a stunning itinerary through central and eastern Europe that costs about half as much as 
most of the others. Perfect if you’re traveling on a tighter budget. Let’s dive in. London and Paris 
in 7 to 10 days. This is the classic first-time Europe itinerary, and for good reason. It’s two 
of the world’s most iconic cities connected by a super-easy 2-hour train ride. I’ve lived in London 
and been to Paris more times than I can count, and I still think this is the best way to start. 
Spend three or four nights in London. See Big Ben, the Tower of London, and a free museum or two. 
Stroll through Hyde Park, ride a red double-decker bus, and catch a West End show if you can. Then 
take the Eurostar train to Paris. If you book a month or two out, fares can be under $75 one way. 
In Paris, you’ve got the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, Montmartre, and the stunning Seine River cruise at 
sunset. The food, somehow even a cheap lunch at a corner cafe seems like a spiritual experience. 
You won’t see everything, but this one’s nearly foolproof. It’s fast-paced, but not exhausting, 
loaded with unforgettable sights, and easy to pull off, even if you’ve never left North America. And 
if you want more details, I’ve got a whole video breaking this one down day by day. There’s a link 
in the description. Paris and Italy in 9 to 12 days. This combo gives you the best of two iconic 
countries, starting with the elegance of Paris and ending with the passion of Italy. It’s perfect 
if you want to hit a few of Europe’s most famous highlights in one smooth trip. Start with three 
or four nights in Paris. Walk along the Seine, explore the Louvre in the Eiffel Tower, and eat 
your weight in croissants. You’ll want a full 2 days for the major sites and one for optional 
things like a day trip to Versailles or just relaxing in a cafe-lined square. Then fly or take 
a high-speed train to Italy. If you’re flying, Rome is the easiest starting point. From there, 
spend about three nights exploring the ancient ruins and piazzas. Then head north to Florence 
for art, architecture, and Tuscany day trips. And finally end in Venice for a couple of dreamy 
crowd-dodging days. You’ll probably fly home from Venice or Milan, depending on flights. The whole 
route is very efficient, and with Italy’s great train system, it’s easy to get around without 
stress. This is a great choice for a first Europe trip if you want culture, scenery, and pizza all 
in one vacation. Italy highlights in 8 to 12 days. Italy is one of those countries where you could 
spend a month and barely make a dent. But this north-to-south route hits the greatest hits and 
still feels relaxed. Start with two nights in Venice, where getting lost in the alleys is half 
the fun. It’s unique, atmospheric, and a place every traveler should see once, even if the prices 
are a little inflated. Then head to Florence for three nights. It’s packed with Renaissance art, 
incredible food, and easy access to the Tuscan countryside. One of my top day trip picks from 
here is Cinque Terre. Five colorful villages perched on cliffs above the sea. It’s crowded, 
yes, but ridiculously photogenic and worth the trip in good weather. Just skip it in winter when 
half the town’s shut down. Next up, Rome for at least three nights. You’ll want two full days to 
explore the Colosseum, the Forum, Vatican City, and whatever neighborhood Tratorria calls to you. 
If you’ve got extra time, consider ending on the Amalfi Coast or in Naples for a seaside finish. 
and the best pizza on earth. If you end in Naples, Pompeii is an easy and fascinating half-day trip. 
One of the world’s best preserved ancient cities, frozen in time by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. 
Trains are fast, views are amazing, and the food is almost always better than it needs to be. 
Switzerland, mountains, waterfalls, and fairy tale views. Switzerland looks small on the map, 
but it’s one of Europe’s most breathtaking and, let’s be honest, most expensive countries. 
So efficiency is key. Rather than spending time in Zurich or Geneva, head straight to the 
Lauterbrunnen Valley near Interlaken. It’s often described as the most beautiful spot in Europe, 
and I honestly agree. Picture green meadows, snowy peaks, and waterfalls cascading down 
cliffs. You can stay in Lauterbrunnen or nearby Gimmelwald, Mürren, or Wengen for postcard views 
in every direction. Allow at least three nights, four if you can. Lucern is another highlight with 
a medieval old town right on a gorgeous lake, plus the famous Chapel Bridge and mountain excursions 
nearby. Two nights there works well, and it’s a great place to wind down your trip. If you’ve got 
the time, one of Switzerland’s scenic train rides, like the Glacier Express or Golden Pass, can 
turn a travel day into a highlight. And if you’re set on visiting a Swiss city, Bern is the one I 
recommend. Compact, photogenic, and full of charm. It even makes a great cloudy day backup if the 
weather in the Alps isn’t cooperating. Switzerland rewards smart planning and quick movement more 
than almost anywhere else. Mediterranean Cruise, a relaxing intro to Europe. If you want to see 
a bunch of incredible places in one week without packing and unpacking every day, a Mediterranean 
cruise might be your perfect intro to Europe. There are dozens of routes, but for first-timers, 
I recommend ones that focus on Spain, France, and Italy. You’ll get a great mix of cultures, 
cuisines, and coastlines, and you won’t need a visa or extra flights. Skip the ones with too 
many sea days or far-flung ports like Athens, which make the trip feel more rushed. Here’s 
a real example I found for $654 per person in September, with a balcony for just $848. It 
even includes a day in Malta, which is one of my favorite lesser-known destinations in Europe. 
It’s seven nights with a new world-class stop almost every day. Even with excursions, the 
total cost is surprisingly low compared to a land-based itinerary, and the weather in September 
is better than July or August. I’ve been to almost all of these ports, and they’re some of the most 
memorable places in Europe. The only downside, you’ll wish you had more time in each one. But 
as a sampler of the best of southern Europe, it’s hard to beat. France highlights Paris, plus 
a taste of the rest. Paris is just the beginning. France is one of Europe’s most diverse and 
rewarding countries to explore. After three or four nights in the capital, you’ll want to 
add at least two more regions, depending on how much time you’ve got. If you’re into wine 
or scenic countryside, head to Burgundy or the Champagne region. Both are close to Paris by 
train and offer charming towns, rolling vineyards, and world-class tastings. For a coastal vibe, Nice 
on the Mediterranean is a favorite. It’s historic, beautiful, and ideal for short day trips to 
Monaco and Cannes, both less than 30 minutes away by train. But heads up, Nice gets crowded 
and pricey in July and August when much of France goes on vacation. If you’re traveling 
in summer, I actually recommend Deauville in Normandy instead. It has better beaches, fewer 
crowds, a famous August horse racing meet, and is close to the D-Day landing sites. An emotional and 
important day trip. Avignon is another excellent option for history and architecture in southern 
France, and it pairs well with nearby villages and countryside. Skip Leon or Marseille on your 
first trip. Save those for round two. By the way, if you’re into this sort of trip planning 
content, I’ve been running a website called priceoftravel.com since 2009. There’s a full 
article with more details on all of these itineraries. I’ll link it below if you want to 
check it out later. Germany highlights from Berlin to Bavaria and a castle or two. Germany offers 
one of Europe’s best combos of history, culture, and efficiency, and it’s generally cheaper than 
nearby France or Switzerland. Start with three nights in Berlin, one of Europe’s most fascinating 
and fast-changing cities. The Cold War history is everywhere, but so are edgy galleries, creative 
restaurants, and a laid-back, unpretentious vibe. It’s cool, weird, and endlessly interesting. From 
there, head to Munich for at least two nights. It’s cleaner, calmer, and full of Bavarian charm 
with a beautifully restored Old Town, beer halls, and the famous Oktoberfest grounds right in the 
city. The BMW Museum is a must for car lovers. For other quick options, Germany excels. Visit Cologne 
to see the country’s most visited attraction, the towering Cologne Cathedral, right next to 
the train station. Or head to Neuschwanstein Castle near Füssen, the real-life inspiration 
for Disney’s castle. It’s a stunning fairy tale experience that fits into a single day. Rothenburg 
ob der Tauber is another favorite. An impossibly photogenic walled town that feels like you’ve 
stepped back 500 years. Germany’s rail system makes it easy to link all of these stops. 
But be warned, it’s not quite as punctual as it once was. So give yourself some wiggle 
room. Amsterdam, Belgium, and Paris. Canals, chocolates, and culture. This one starts strong, 
ends stronger, and has great beer in the middle. Begin with three nights in Amsterdam, one of 
Europe’s most unique and unforgettable cities. The entire central canal district is basically 
car-free, and locals glide around on bikes or in trams while you wander the cobblestone streets 
and historic bridges. It’s compact, charming, and full of iconic sites like the Anne Frank House, 
the Van Gogh Museum, and the interactive Heineken Brewery Tour. Crowds are real, and prices are 
high, but it’s still 100% worth it. From there, head south into Belgium. You can stop for a 
few hours in Brussels to see the famous Grand Place and grab some chocolate, waffles or fries, 
then keep moving. Brussels is fine, but Bruges is better. Spend two nights in Bruges, which 
feels like a mini Amsterdam with fewer crowds, amazing beer, and storybook streets that you’ll 
want to photograph from every angle. Finally, take the train to Paris for three or four nights. 
That section’s already covered in detail earlier, but this route gives you the perfect mix of 
chill, charm, and capital city splendor. This one’s a winner if you want three countries in one 
trip without spending all of your time in transit. Spain highlights Mediterranean vibes, Moorish 
history, and big city energy. If you’ve got about 10 days, Spain is an excellent option. And 
with smart planning, it’s surprisingly affordable, too. Start in Barcelona with two or three nights 
to take in Gaudi’s unforgettable architecture like the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell. The whole 
city pulses with energy from the beachy boardwalk to the Gothic quarter’s narrow lanes. Just avoid 
July and August if you can. Summer crowds here are intense. Next, take a high-speed train to Madrid, 
Spain’s vibrant capital. It’s home to the Royal Palace, the elegant Plaza Mayor, and the Prado, 
one of the world’s great art museums. But the real magic here is in its plazas, tapas bars, and that 
late night energy that somehow never feels unsafe. Then head south to Andalusia. Seville and Granada 
are both top picks. The Alhambra in Granada is jaw-dropping, and Seville’s Old Town with its 
Flamenco Fair and Cathedral views feels like a movie set. If you’re craving beach time, finish 
in Malaga. It’s much more authentic and underrated than the Costa del Sol resorts with great food, 
solid museums, and a beach right in town. England and Scotland, castles, cathedrals, and classic 
countryside. Start with three or four nights in London where you’ll knock out many of Europe’s 
most famous sites in one go. From the British Museum to Big Ben to that perfect first pint in 
a cozy pub, it’s a whirlwind, but a magical one. From there, take a short train ride west to Bath, 
easily one of England’s prettiest cities. It’s famous for Roman ruins, Georgian architecture, 
and Jane Austen connections. Combine it with a half-day stop at Stonehenge for a well-rounded 
slice of history. If you’ve got more time, consider heading farther west to Cornwall, 
known for its stunning coastline, charming fishing towns, and mild weather. Just don’t bother 
with the overpriced Lands’ End attraction. Next, head north and stop in York for a night or two. 
It’s a beautifully preserved medieval city with Roman roots, surrounded by ancient walls, 
and anchored by the incredible Yorkminster Cathedral. Then take the train up to Edinburgh in 
Scotland for two or three nights. The Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, and dramatic views make this 
city unforgettable. If you’ve got more time, base yourself in Inverness for a couple days 
to explore the Scottish Highlands and skip the Loch Ness tour. The Isle of Skye is a far more 
scenic reward. Eastern Europe on a budget, Prague, Budapest, and Krakow. If you’re after maximum 
charm on a minimum budget, this is the itinerary for you. These cities are stunning, culturally 
rich, and still remarkably affordable. Perfect whether you’re stretching your budget or just to 
enjoy a good splurge without the guilt. Start with three nights in Prague, which somehow combines 
fairy tale beauty, diverse architecture, and a lively bar scene without breaking the bank. Hotels 
in the center can be pricey, but just a short tram ride away, you’ll find stylish rooms for a 
fraction of the cost. If you’ve got extra time, add a night or two in Český Krumlov, a gorgeous 
little town that feels like a movie set and still flies under the radar. Next stop, Budapest. 
Like Prague, but grander, the river views are breathtaking, and soaking in one of the famous 
thermal spas is the perfect way to recharge after a long travel day. Finally, head to Kkow. With 
its castle-topped old town and buzzing nightife, it’s one of the best value cities in Europe. 
Good hotels under $70 a night are still easy to find. Just note, trains in the region are slow. 
Long-distance buses or budget flights are often faster and cheaper. Thanks so much for watching. 
I hope this gave you some good ideas or maybe even helped you pick your next Europe itinerary. I’ve 
been a full-time travel writer since 2007. And if you’ve got questions about planning your trip or 
even where to start, drop them in the comments. I try to respond to everyone and I genuinely 
enjoy helping people figure out the best routes and strategies. There’s also a written version of 
this on my site, priceoftravel.com, which has even more details and links to helpful tools. So, feel 
free to check that out, too, or bookmark it for later. And if you want more videos like this, hit 
subscribe. I’ve got a few follow-ups in the works, like themed itineraries and some clever 
summer trip ideas. So, I hope to see you again

📌 11 Classic Europe Itinerary Ideas (Perfect for First-Time Travelers & Dreamers Alike!)

Planning a trip to Europe and not sure where to start? Or maybe you just love dreaming about future travels? In this video, I’ll take you through 11 amazing European itineraries—from the classics like London & Paris, to Italy highlights, Germany, Spain, Mediterranean cruises, and even beautiful budget-friendly Eastern Europe trips.

✅ Each itinerary includes smart routes, key highlights, and honest tips from a professional travel writer who’s been to all of them, plus a few overrated stops you might want to skip.

Whether you’ve got 7, 10, or 14 days, or just want to gather ideas, this guide will help you build the perfect Europe trip.

👇 Useful links and resources:
• 📝 The full article version with maps & tips: https://www.priceoftravel.com/best-europe-itineraries/
• 📩 My free travel ebook (with dozens of cheap destination ideas): https://www.priceoftravel.com/ebook
• 🎥 My London & Paris detailed video itinerary: https://youtu.be/pnjooO4m44Y

If you have any travel questions, drop them in the comments—I’m happy to help!

💡 Don’t forget to like and subscribe for more smart travel guides every week.

0:00 Intro
0:38 London & Paris – 7 to 10 Days
1:41 Paris & Italy – 10 to 14 Days
2:43 Italy Highlights – 10 to 14 Days
3:58 Switzerland’s Scenic Towns – 7 to 10 Days
5:11 Mediterranean Cruise – 7 Nights
6:17 France Beyond Paris – 10 to 14 Days
7:38 Germany Highlights – 10 to 14 Days
8:52 France, Belgium & Netherlands – 10 to 14 Days
10:03 Spain Highlights – 10 to 14 Days
11:12 England & Scotland – 10 to 14 Days
12:26 Cheap & Gorgeous Cities in Eastern Europe – 10 to 14 Days
13:37 Wrap-up & Final Thoughts