Europe 1 Month in Europe: The Perfect Europe Itinerary

1 Month in Europe: The Perfect Europe Itinerary

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The idea of making your first trip to Europe can be exciting, but it’s also kind of daunting. After all, Europe is a continent full of amazing destinations, so where do you start? Maybe you have a few places you want to visit or some cities that friends and family have recommended. Still, planning a trip to Europe all by yourself can be stressful if it’s your first time.

You’re not alone, though! You have great travel resources like this Europe trip itinerary to help you plan your first visit. We’ll show you which places to visit and what you have to see and do. We’ll also explain how to get there and how many days you’ll need to see the best of each destination. In other words, we’ll make it a little simpler for you to see all the best places to visit in Europe in one trip. We think you’ll love this amazing continent so much that you’ll be eagerly planning your second trip as soon as you get home.

One Month Europe Itinerary

Best Time to Visit Europe

One of the greatest challenges of planning a big Eurotrip like this is working out the best time to visit. Whether you choose to visit Europe in the summer, winter, or shoulder season, you’ll have to consider a lot of different climates and events (all presenting their own pros and cons), as this trip will take you right across the continent.

The obvious choice for first-timers is to go in the summer, when Europe is at its warmest, but this is also when most attractions are busiest. If long lines and big crowds dissuade you from sightseeing, summer probably isn’t the best fit for you – unless you want to spend more time sunbathing at the beach than sightseeing, of course.

Recommendation: If you’ll be visiting Europe in the summer, book everything well in advance, including entrance tickets to popular attractions. Paying a little more for skip-the-line tickets is worth it, as you probably don’t want to spend most of your vacation waiting in line. Learn more about how to skip the lines in Europe here.

Europe doesn’t need to be hot to be busy, though. Winter is also a popular time for travel in Europe, as it can be a lot of fun visiting Christmas markets in places like Vienna and Berlin. But it can also get quite cold, so outdoor sightseeing may not be all that fun. There’s also the concern that certain attractions and sights may be closed during the winter offseason.

The shoulder season – early spring and early autumn – tends to share both strengths and weaknesses with other seasons. It’s ideal for avoiding large crowds while still enjoying generally good weather, but these months often suffer from more rainy days, not to mention shorter daylight. Ultimately, it’s all a balancing act.

How to Get Around Europe

Europe is ahead of the game when it comes to tourism, with plenty of transport services and options readily available. You should find getting around Europe to be quite manageable, especially when following the route we’ve picked out for you. While we’ll talk about transport for each leg of the trip specifically, here are your general options for getting around.

1. By Car

For the most freedom regarding when you travel and where you go along the way, the best choice is to drive yourself. With a rental car, you aren’t limited by the schedules of public transport and can make day trips and stops as you please. However, driving a rental car across countries can be expensive and put you in unfamiliar situations.

Recommendation: To get the best rate on your rental car, check out RentalCars.com. This site searches and compares prices from all major rental companies in Europe, helping you find the best possible price on a rental car.

2. By Train

Train travel in Europe is one of the most popular ways to get around. Not only do you get to relax and watch the scenery pass by, but you can make good time too, particularly with high-speed trains. However, to travel Europe by train is potentially expensive, as the InterCity tickets are often pricey and may require you to pay extra for seat reservations.

3. By Bus

While buses aren’t as fast as trains or planes, they’re a viable choice for getting around Europe. They’re usually the cheapest form of public transport, and European bus companies such as FlixBus and Eurolines offer surprisingly comfortable travel.

4. By Plane

Of course, flying is always an option, and you’re spoiled for choice with airlines in Europe. While many major carriers have connections to major European cities, there are also budget carriers such as Ryanair, EasyJet, and Wizz Air. Although you have to pay for checked luggage and seat selection, these airlines still work out to be surprisingly affordable. To see tips and considerations for flying with budget airlines, check out this post.

5. By Rideshare / Hitchhiking

If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, consider a ride-share service such as BlaBlaCar. These services let you carpool with people throughout Europe and can be an affordable choice. Besides, it can be fun to meet new people along the way. Similarly, hitchhiking is a fairly common and accepted practice in Europe. Hitchhiking naturally comes with difficulties and risks, but it may be a handy option for some people. 

Apart from the United Kingdom, this Europe itinerary only includes countries in the Schengen Area. That means you’ll be able to travel freely between the non-U.K. countries under a Schengen visa or visa waiver for the length of time it allows.

Visa Requirements for Europe

A Schengen visa allows you to stay in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days, whether you’re there for business or pleasure. If you plan to be in the Schengen Area for more than 90 days, you must apply for a national visa from a specific European country. There are no border controls between the 26 countries in the Schengen Area, meaning you won’t have to stop at customs (and you won’t get a new passport stamp). 

To obtain a Schengen visa, anyone coming from outside this zone will need a valid passport that doesn’t expire for at least three months after your departure date. Some will also need to apply for their Schengen visa before entering the European Union, depending on nationality.

Accommodations in Europe

Just as you can travel in whatever style suits you, you can find different types of accommodation to meet your needs. Ultimately, the best way to travel Europe is whatever works best for you, and with so many options in Europe, you’re bound to find something that fits. Whatever type of lodgings you choose, though, it’s best to book early so you don’t end up overpaying.

The hostels on Hostelworld are great lodging options for backpacking through Europe. You’ll find every type of hostel in the major cities, from budget to flashy, from quiet and cozy to a nonstop party.

Guesthouses, bed-and-breakfasts, and pensions (boardinghouses) are other popular alternatives to hotels that are both more personal and affordable. You can easily find these places – along with hotels of all styles and even private apartments – on Booking.com.

Of course, there’s also Airbnb, which connects you with locals who have a spare room or even an apartment where you can stay. Airbnb can be a great way to interact with locals or enjoy a lived-in space with amenities like a kitchen.

The Ultimate First-Timer’s Europe Itinerary

For your first European trip, we’ve assembled an itinerary that will take you to all the highlights you’ve longed to see. Of course, it takes more than one trip to see everything, but this plan will take you to some of the best things to do in Europe and show you just what makes this part of the world so special. 

This itinerary will take you to 11 countries: England, France, Spain, Italy, Austria, Hungary, Poland, the Czech Republic, Germany, the Netherlands, and Belgium.

However, before we get to our Europe travel itinerary and the best things to do in Europe, we just wanted to remind you to purchase travel insurance. You never know what will happen and, trust us, you do not want to get stuck with thousands of dollars in medical bills. As a wise man once said, “If you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel.” So don’t leave home without it.

SafetyWing offers travel insurance for only about $10 a week, making it a no-brainer to get. You can get a quick, non-binding quote below:

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SafetyWing is, of course, not the only option available. Two other popular alternatives are World Nomads and Heymondo.

Although this itinerary is designed to show you the best of Europe, you can certainly alter or add places to make it your own. After all, this is just a sample itinerary for Europe based on some of the most beloved destinations. No two trips are the same, so feel free to use this itinerary however best suits your needs. Now let’s get to it, shall we?

Big Ben and houses of Parliament on the river Thames, London UK
IR Stone / shutterstock.com

1. London, UK

A fantastic place to start your first trip to Europe, London is a huge city with countless things to do.

Naturally, you’ll want to take in its highlights, starting with well-known landmarks like Big Ben, the Palace of Westminster, and Westminster Abbey. You can then head down the road and wave to the royal family from outside the gates of Buckingham Palace

In the center of the city, you can visit popular spots like Piccadilly Circus before being blown away by the exhibits in the British Museum. Following the River Thames, you’ll pass Shakespeare’s Globe and the London Eye before winding up at the Tower Bridge and Tower of London.

Time needed: 3-4 days

Getting there: London is serviced by six major international airports, including Heathrow (LHR), Gatwick (LGW), and Stansted (STN). Long-haul flights from major airlines and budget flights from European airlines are both plentiful here.

Where to stay: 

Recommended tours:

Further reading:

The Louvre Pyramid in Paris, France.
photo.ua / shutterstock.com

2. Paris, France

Pretty much all first-time visitors to Europe want to visit the city of Paris. To start, head for the Arc de Triomphe and meander down the elegant avenue of Champs-Élysées. When you can’t wait any longer, make a beeline for the Eiffel Tower and see the city from way up high. 

Back at ground level, be sure to visit the Notre Dame de Paris and the Basilica of Sacré Coeur, both important landmarks in their own right. Linger around the Sacré Coeur to explore its enchanting neighborhood of Montmartre.

To take in some high culture, definitely allow plenty of time for the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay. That goes double for your trip out of the city to the unparalleled Palace of Versailles, one of the best things to do in all of France.

Time needed: 3-4 days

Getting there: London and Paris are connected by the Eurostar train that crosses through the Channel Tunnel. Trains leave hourly, and the journey lasts two hours and 15 minutes. A much cheaper but considerably longer alternative is to travel by bus, with both day and night departures possible.

Where to stay: 

Recommended tours:

Further reading:

Park Guell by architect Gaudi in a summer day in Barcelona, Spain.
S-F / shutterstock.com

3. Barcelona, Spain

There’s a lot to like about Barcelona, one of Europe’s most popular destinations. A great way to start your visit is to search out the Works of Antoni Gaudí,an eclectic architect whose creations are unbelievable. His UNESCO-listed buildings include Parque Güell, Casa Batlló, and the famously unfinished church of La Sagrada Familia. For creativity in a different artistic field, visit the Picasso Museum to see works by the famed Spanish painter. 

Next, follow the street of La Rambla into Barcelona’s beautifully surprising Gothic Quarter. From there, you should certainly visit the lovely Barceloneta Beach. In the evenings, unwind with a nice glass of sangriaand make the tough choice between tapasand paellafor dinner.

Time needed: 3 days

Getting there: A high-speed TGV train goes directly from Paris to Barcelona several times a day, with the journey lasting six hours and 30 minutes. However, flying between the cities with a budget airline like Ryanair is both cheaper and faster.

Where to stay: 

Recommended tours:

Further reading:

Panoramic view of the harbor in Nice, France
Sergii Zinko / shutterstock.com

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. Eventually, find your way into Vieux Nice (the Old Town) to see its traditional narrow streets and colorful houses. Next, venture up Castle Hill for the huge park and superb viewpoints. 

When it’s time for some sun and sand, you can choose from various public and private beaches. Public beaches like La Réserve are free, while private ones like Castel Plage require you to pay.

Time needed: 2 days

Getting there: The fastest and cheapest option to travel from Barcelona to Nice is a four-hour flight. You can also take an eight-hour journey on the high-speed train, with a transfer in Marseille.

Where to stay: 

Recommended tours:

Further reading:

Milan Cathedral with lion statue, Milan,Italy
elesi / shutterstock.com

5. Milan, Italy

Start your time in Italy with the northern city of Milan, known for its fashion and plenty of wonderful sights. Begin in the Piazza del Duomo in front of the Gothic Milan Cathedral and climb to its roof for some incredible city views. For further sightseeing, cut through the luxurious arcades in the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, where it’s only natural to do a little window shopping along the way. Visit Castello Sforzesco, taking in not only the castle but also the grounds of Parco Sempione and the triumphal arch of Porta Sempione.

Among Milan’s many churches, one not to miss is Santa Maria delle Grazie. This is where you can see the famous Leonardo da Vinci painting “The Last Supper.”

Time needed: 1-2 days

Getting there: Three high-speed InterCity trains run daily between Nice and Milan, making the trip in just short of five hours. Taking the bus means a journey of over five hours, but it may cost quite a bit less.

Where to stay: 

Recommended tours:

Further reading:

Florence Duomo. Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore (Basilica of Saint Mary of the Flower) in Florence, Italy.
Catarina Belova / shutterstock.com

6. Florence, Italy

Explore Florence’s expansive historic center along the banks of the Arno. See the immense Florence Cathedral, admire the rooftop views from Giotto’s Campanile, and experience the splendor of grand squares and medieval palaces like the Palazzo Vecchio. Find your way to Piazza della Signoria and all the wonderful public statues of the Loggia dei Lanzi

Be sure to visit the Uffizi Gallery and the Galleria dell’Accademia for endless iconic Renaissance artwork. Finish your stay with a walk across the Ponte Vecchio (Old Bridge) and a sunset view from Piazzale Michelangelo.

Time needed: 2 days

Getting there: High-speed trains connect Milan to Florence, taking an hour and 40 minutes. Trains run roughly every hour, with slower regional connections also possible. Buses are slower still but cheaper.

Where to stay: 

Recommended tours:

Further reading:

View of Colosseum in Rome and morning sun, Italy, Europe.
prochasson frederic / shutterstock.com

7. Rome, Italy

Lovingly called the “Eternal City,” Rome is brimming with ancient sites and landmarks. Start with the city’s icon, the Colosseum where gladiators fought, then take the short walk to the expansive Roman Forum. Here you’ll find the remains of ancient buildings around a marketplace. 

You can find more ruins throughout the city center, such as the Pantheon temple and Castel Sant’Angelo. Of course, Rome has landmarks from other eras too, including the Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain. Don’t skip the trip to Vatican City, headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church and the world’s smallest country.

Time needed: 3-4 days

Getting there: Several InterCity trains run directly from Florence to Rome every hour, taking an hour and 30 minutes.

Where to stay: 

Recommended tours:

Further reading:

Aerial cityscape view on Venice old town with Santa Maria basilica at the sunny day
RossHelen / shutterstock.com

8. Venice, Italy

A floating city like no other, Venice can easily keep you entertained for a couple of days. Working your way along the city’s many canals, find the Grand Canal and look along it from the Rialto Bridge. From there, wander this labyrinthine city to the famous St. Mark’s Square. Here you can experience the extravagance of the Doge’s Palace, the Bridge of Sighs, and St. Mark’s Basilica, then climb St. Mark’s Campanile for its wonderful views. 

You also need to see Venice from the water at some point, whether you take a gondola ride through the city or the Vaporetto (Water Bus) out to the colorful islands of Burano and Murano.

Time needed: 2 days

Getting there: Several high-speed trains run directly from Rome to Venice every hour, making the journey across Italy in just under four hours. While it may take almost twice as long, the bus is a considerably cheaper alternative.

Where to stay: 

Recommended tours:

Further reading:

Beautiful view of famous Mirabell Gardens with the old historic Fortress Hohensalzburg in the background in Salzburg, Austria
canadastock / shutterstock.com

9. Salzburg, Austria

Across the Alps in Austria, you’ll find the charming city of Salzburg. Enjoy the classical music playing through the streets as you pass medieval and Baroque houses in the Altstadt (Old Town) from the city’s heyday. Find your way to the quaint street of Getreidegasse, where you can visit Mozart’s Birthplace

Passing the scenic Salzach riverfront, head to the pretty gardens of Mirabell Palace for a great view of Hohensalzburg Fortress, one of the city’s true icons. With a spare day, take a trip out to nearby Hallstatt, a postcard-perfect Alpine town.

Time needed: 2 days

Getting there: The fastest and cheapest way from Venice to Salzburg is to take a bus. This journey is a little shorter than the seven hours that InterCity trains take, as they require a transfer in the Austrian city of Villach. It’s also possible to take a direct overnight train from nearby Padua to Salzburg.

Where to stay: 

Recommended tours:

Further reading:

Traditional old-fashioned fiacre in Hofburg, Vienna, Austria
Lipskiy / shutterstock.com

10. Vienna, Austria

In the grand imperial city of Vienna, walk through the historic center to admire its architecture, especially around the Stephansplatz and Graben squares. Stand before magnificent buildings like the Gothic Rathaus (City Hall) and elegant Karlskirche. To rest your feet, you can also enjoy a carriage ride through the Austrian capital. 

Try sweet treats from around the world at the Naschmarkt, and spend your evenings listening to concerts of classical music and the opera. You can also visit one imperial residence after another, going from the Hofburg and the Belvedere to the enormous Schönbrunn Palace. If you finish all this in a couple days, consider popping over to nearby Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, for an easy day trip.

Time needed: 3 days

Getting there: To travel from Salzburg to Vienna, you have your choice of regular direct trains from two companies, each taking around two hours and 30 minutes.

Where to stay: 

Recommended tours:

Further reading:

The picturesque landscape of the Parliament and the bridge over the Danube in Budapest at sunset
Andrij Vatsyk / shutterstock.com

11. Budapest, Hungary

Once you’re in the Hungarian capital of Budapest along the Danube, head straight for Buda Castle. Here you can admire the historic palace complex, its grounds, and its great view out over the city. Nearby is another exceptional viewpoint at the picturesque Fisherman’s Bastion just behind the ornately patterned Matthias Church. From here, you’ll spot both the Széchenyi Chain Bridge and the amazing Hungarian Parliament Building, which the bridge will take you to when you cross it. 

Elsewhere in the city, seek out the impressive Heroes’ Square and the magical sight of Vajdahunyad Castle. Spend your spare time relaxing in the city’s world-famous bathhouses, such as the Széchenyi Thermal Bath, but still allow time for a day trip to either Szentendre or Lake Balaton.

Time needed: 3 days

Getting there: InterCity trains directly connect Vienna and Budapest, leaving every hour or two. The journey lasts two hours and 20 minutes, but it’s considerably more expensive than a slightly slower bus.

Where to stay: 

Recommended tours:

Further reading:

Horse carriages at main square in Krakow in a summer day, Poland
S-F / shutterstock.com

12. Kraków, Poland

Venture through the beautifully preserved Old Town of Kraków, starting with the Main Square, where you’ll see memorable landmarks like the Cloth Hall and St. Mary’s Basilica. Make your way along the medieval streets to the hilltop Wawel Royal Castle and its fire-breathing dragon statue. 

You can learn about the city’s Jewish history in the quarter of Kazimierz and across the river at Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory, where the World War II ghetto was. Don’t forget to indulge in some delicious pierogi (Polish dumplings).

Time needed: 2 days

Getting there: The best way from Budapest to Kraków is with a budget airline like Ryanair. The flight takes around four hours, about half the time that the much cheaper bus route takes.

Where to stay: 

Recommended tours:

Further reading:

Prague city skyline, Prague, Czech Republic
Noppasin Wongchum / shutterstock.com

13. Prague, Czechia

Prague is certainly one of Europe’s grandest cities, and the best place to start your visit is the Old Town Square with its famous astronomical clock. Head for another famous landmark, the scenic Charles Bridge, before climbing your way up to Prague Castle to experience its halls, city views, and especially St. Vitus Cathedral

You have your pick of two incredible libraries, one at the Clementinum and one at the Strahov Monastery. You can also learn about some local folklore and history in the city’s Jewish Quarter. If you need to slow down, rest one afternoon with a soak at the Original Beer Spa, where you’ll literally bathe in beer. 

Time needed: 3 days

Getting there: The best way to get from Kraków to Prague is probably the one-hour flight with a budget airline like Ryanair. The bus and train trips tend to take around seven hours, with only a few daily departures.

Where to stay: 

Recommended tours:

Further reading:

East Side Gallery in Berlin, Germany
turtix / shutterstock.com

14. Berlin, Germany

For your first Europe trip, you won’t want to miss Germany and its cool capital city, Berlin. Starting in the historic Alexanderplatz, make your way along the picturesque riverfront and into the city. Following the Unter den Linden boulevard past the Berlin State Opera, head for the majestic Brandenburg Gate

Your next stop should be the Reichstag, a grand government building with beautiful architecture and a sorry past. You can further explore those dark days with a contemplative moment at the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe. Other historic landmarks include Checkpoint Charlie and the infamous Berlin Wall, which you can see covered in all sorts of graffiti at the East Side Gallery.

Time needed: 3-4 days

Getting there: InterCity trains make the four-hour journey from Prague to Berlin about every two hours. There is also the cheaper option of going by bus, with departures every few hours that require a stop in Dresden along the five-hour trip.

Where to stay: 

Recommended tours:

Further reading:

Canal in Amsterdam
S.Borisov / shutterstock.com

15. Amsterdam, Netherlands

With just the right mix of culture and fun, the Dutch capitaloffers an amazing time. Wander along Amsterdam’s many canals to delight in its scenery. Stop at Dam Square, where you’ll find the Royal Palace of Amsterdam and other landmarks. For some culture and history, visit the renowned Rijksmuseum and the tragic memorial that is the Anne Frank House

It’s also worth venturing outside the city center to explore neighborhoods like Jordaan, the Museum Quarter, and Amsterdam-Noord. For experiences that only Amsterdam can provide, walk over to the Red Light District or visit one of its many “coffeeshops,” such as Grey Area Coffeeshop near the palace, where it’s possible to buy cannabis.

Time needed: 2 days

Getting there: The quickest and one of the cheapest ways to travel from Berlin to Amsterdam is a four-hour flight with a budget airline. Alternatively, you can take the direct high-speed train that leaves every two hours, making the westward journey in six hours and 30 minutes.

Where to stay: 

Recommended tours:

Further reading:

Colorful old brick houses in the Market Square in the UNESCO World Heritage Old Town of Bruges, Belgium
Gabor Kovacs Photography / shutterstock.com

16. Bruges, Belgium

Treasure some of Belgium’s medieval charm with a visit to the picturesque capital city of Bruges. Starting in the central Market Square, take in cherished landmarks such as colorful houses and the elegant Belfry of Bruges, whose towering spire you can climb for some great city views. 

To see Bruges from a different angle, take a canal ride along the Reien, the city’s beloved network of waterways. Next, head to the Basilica of the Holy Blood to see the church’s relic, said to contain the blood of Jesus Christ. Then you can choose whether to go shopping for handcrafts, check out some chocolate shops, or try a few Belgian beers.

Time needed: 1-2 days

Getting there: The InterCity train from Amsterdam to Bruges takes three hours and 30 minutes. Both services on this route leave hourly.

Where to stay: 

Further reading:

Getting home again: The nearest major international airport to Bruges is an hour away in Brussels. Alternatively, you can return to London on a direct Eurostar train that leaves roughly every two hours, with a two-hour trip time.

Well, that’s everything you need to know to enjoy your first Europe trip with this itinerary! This trip will take you to some superb places, hopefully leading to great experiences and even better memories.

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Comments

  • Natalie

    Could this be done in the opposite direction? Going from London to Bruges and working in that direction?

  • Would a Eurail go through these countries?

    • A

      Yes, Eurail is just a pass that allows you to use certain trains in Europe. Just keep in mind that a Eurail pass might be more expensive than booking transportation individually.

  • Lilly Crapella

    How much would this trip cost for 2 people leaving from the US?

  • Dr. Upendra Bhide M

    Nice and cool places … however how much it cost per person from Bangalore including ticket and stay, visa, food, etc.

  • Muck Adams

    Cool post, thanks so much for the info. How much do you estimate this to cost for one person?

  • James Matthew

    In usd, how much would something like this cost for one person? Great post by the way, this is seriously worth considering.

  • Daniel B.

    Not including cost of food OR flights to London from U.S., and out of Bruges to U.S., what do you think the approximate cost would be for 2 people who follow this? Thank you for your time and consideration.

  • Emmanuel Chibuikem

    Italy seems to have most appearance on the list, Florence, Rome, Venice. I would love to visit Venice, a city on water. Sounds so cool.

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