There’s something unforgettable about your first trip to Europe.
It’s the mix of café breakfasts in Paris, gondola rides in Venice, the hum of languages at train stations, and the quiet awe of stepping into a centuries-old cathedral.
When I planned my first Europe trip, I was both thrilled and overwhelmed. Where do you even start when there are so many countries packed so close together? Over time and after a few mistakes I learned that planning a first Europe adventure doesn’t have to be complicated. You just need the right route, a sense of timing, and a handful of smart travel habits.
Here’s everything I wish I’d known before my first trip across the continent plus sample itineraries and 12 incredible destinations that never fail to wow first-time visitors.
Before You Go: How to Start Planning Your First Europe Trip
1. Choose the Right Duration
For a first-time Europe trip, most travelers spend between 7 and 14 days.
Less than a week, and you’ll feel rushed; more than two, and logistics can get tricky.
2. Pick a Logical Route
Travel west to east or north to south avoid zig-zagging across the map. Open-jaw tickets (flying into one city and out of another) often save both time and money.
3. Balance Big Cities with Smaller Stops
Iconic capitals like Paris and Rome are bucket-list musts, but pair them with smaller towns such as Bruges, Annecy, or Chania for breathing space and a glimpse of local life.
4. Book Early for Trains & Attractions
High-speed trains between major cities sell out early, as do entry slots for popular attractions like the Eiffel Tower or Colosseum. Always book at least a few weeks in advance.
5. Travel Light
Trust me you’ll thank yourself later. Cobblestones and stairs are everywhere. A carry-on suitcase or backpack is ideal, especially if you’re hopping between countries.
Sample Europe Itineraries for First-Time Travelers
7-Day Europe Highlights Route
London → Paris → Amsterdam
- Days 1–2: London
Visit Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, and the British Museum. Ride the London Eye at sunset. - Days 3–4: Paris
Take the Eurostar train to Paris. Explore the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Montmartre. Picnic by the Seine. - Days 5–7: Amsterdam
Catch a Thalys train north. Wander the canals, visit the Van Gogh Museum, and enjoy a leisurely bike ride through Vondelpark.
Why it works: You’ll cover three classic European capitals connected by easy, fast rail lines perfect for beginners.
10-Day Classic Europe Route
Rome → Florence → Venice → Vienna → Prague
- Days 1–3: Rome
Start at the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Vatican. Evenings in Trastevere feel like magic. - Days 4–5: Florence & Tuscany
Admire Michelangelo’s David, climb the Duomo, and sample local wine in nearby Tuscan hill towns. - Days 6–7: Venice
Stroll through Piazza San Marco, ride a vaporetto down the Grand Canal, and lose yourself in the alleys. - Days 8–10: Vienna & Prague
A night train or short flight gets you to Vienna for palaces and pastries, then end in storybook Prague with its castle and Charles Bridge.
Why it works: A romantic, art-filled route that combines Italy’s warmth with Central Europe’s charm.
14-Day Europe Dream Loop
Barcelona → Paris → Bruges → Amsterdam → Berlin → Budapest
- Days 1–3: Barcelona
Start with Gaudí’s architecture and tapas by the beach. - Days 4–6: Paris
Art, pastries, and river cruises what’s not to love? - Day 7: Bruges
A day or two in this fairytale Belgian town adds slower rhythms to your trip. - Days 8–9: Amsterdam
Bike rides, canals, and museums galore. - Days 10–12: Berlin
Dive into history at the Berlin Wall Memorial and the East Side Gallery. - Days 13–14: Budapest
End your journey soaking in thermal baths while gazing at the Danube.
Why it works: This itinerary blends Western Europe’s classics with Eastern Europe’s energy and affordability.
12 Iconic Spots for First-Time Visitors
1. Rome, Italy
Rome is where history breathes. You’ll wander through ancient ruins, hear church bells echo across cobblestoned piazzas, and pass fountains older than most countries. Start at the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill for a window into ancient civilization, then toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain to ensure your return.
Spend an afternoon inside Vatican City, home to St. Peter’s Basilica and Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel ceiling, and cap the evening with a plate of cacio e pepe in Trastevere, Rome’s bohemian heart.
Stay: Near Piazza Navona or Trastevere for walkability and lively evenings.
Best Time: April–June and September–October for mild weather.
Zee Tip: Book combo tickets for the Colosseum and Roman Forum online, and always wear comfy shoes Rome is best explored on foot.
2. Paris, France
Paris has a rhythm that’s impossible to rush. Mornings smell like buttery croissants and coffee, afternoons blend art and architecture, and evenings sparkle with wine and golden light. Start with the Eiffel Tower, stroll along the Seine, and pause at Notre-Dame before diving into world-class art at the Louvre or Musée d’Orsay.
Wander Le Marais for vintage shops and falafel, then find a quiet bench in Luxembourg Gardens the ultimate Parisian pastime. End your day with a river cruise or a sunset from Montmartre.
Stay: Saint-Germain for classic charm or Le Marais for trendy cafés.
Best Time: Spring and fall for blooming gardens and fewer crowds.
Zee Tip: Buy a multi-day Navigo Easy Metro pass, and book museum tickets in advance to skip long queues.
3. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam feels like a city drawn with soft watercolor strokes gentle canals, leaning townhouses, and flower markets that brighten even cloudy mornings. Cycle through Vondelpark, visit the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum, and pay your respects at the Anne Frank House.
In spring, take a day trip to Keukenhof Gardens to see the tulip fields in full bloom. In the evenings, the Jordaan neighborhood buzzes with candlelit cafés and indie boutiques.
Stay: Jordaan or De Pijp for charm and proximity to major attractions.
Best Time: April–May (tulip season) or September for pleasant weather.
Zee Tip: Reserve your museum slots early and explore smaller canal belt streets for photo ops away from the crowds.
4. Bruges, Belgium
Bruges looks straight out of a fairy tale. Medieval towers reflect in still canals, horse-drawn carriages clip-clop across cobblestones, and the scent of waffles and chocolate fills the air. Start in the Markt Square, climb the Belfry Tower for panoramic views, and take a canal cruise to see the city from the water.
Evenings are particularly magical lantern-lit bridges and quiet streets reveal Bruges’ storybook side once the day-trippers leave.
Stay: Inside the historic center near the Markt or Burg Square.
Best Time: December for its enchanting Christmas market or spring for quiet, sunny days.
Zee Tip: Visit early morning or late evening for a peaceful Bruges experience, and sample Belgian chocolate at The Old Chocolate House.
5. Vienna, Austria
Vienna is elegance in motion a city of grand palaces, symphonies, and coffee rituals. Spend a morning touring Schönbrunn Palace, then visit the Belvedere Museum to admire Klimt’s The Kiss. Take a break at a traditional café for Sachertorte and melange coffee, and catch an evening concert in a Baroque hall.
For a taste of local life, explore the Naschmarkt food stalls or stroll the Ringstrasse boulevard lined with ornate buildings.
Stay: Near the Innere Stadt (First District) for proximity to major sites.
Best Time: May–September for outdoor concerts and pleasant evenings.
Zee Tip: The Vienna City Card gives you free transit and discounts on attractions perfect for short stays.
6. Budapest, Hungary
Budapest offers a perfect blend of history and youthful energy, split by the shimmering Danube. Explore Buda Castle, cross the Chain Bridge, and admire Parliament, one of Europe’s most beautiful buildings. Soak in thermal bliss at the Széchenyi Baths, then unwind with rooftop cocktails overlooking the city lights.
The ruin bars in the Jewish Quarter are a must for nightlife lovers quirky, creative, and uniquely Budapest.
Stay: District V (Belváros) for views or Erzsébetváros for nightlife.
Best Time: March–June or September–November for comfortable weather.
Zee Tip: Take a night cruise on the Danube the illuminated skyline is unforgettable.
7. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague feels like it’s been frozen in a fairytale moment. Gothic spires, cobblestoned lanes, and baroque churches create a magical skyline, especially at sunrise. Begin at the Old Town Square, watch the Astronomical Clock chime, then wander up to Prague Castle for sweeping views.
Cross the Charles Bridge at dawn for serenity, and try hearty Czech fare with a pint in a local tavern.
Stay: Mala Strana for historic charm or Vinohrady for a quieter, local feel.
Best Time: April–June or September–October.
Zee Tip: Skip taxis Prague’s tram and metro systems are efficient and scenic.
8. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona blends beachside relaxation with architectural wonder. Marvel at Gaudí’s masterpieces the Sagrada Família, Casa Batlló, and Park Güell then wander the Gothic Quarter’s labyrinthine alleys.
Spend afternoons lounging on Barceloneta Beach or sampling tapas at Mercado de la Boqueria. As the sun sets, join locals for sangria along the waterfront or catch a flamenco show.
Stay: Eixample for walkable access to Gaudí landmarks or Barceloneta for ocean views.
Best Time: April–June or late September for warm weather without peak crowds.
Zee Tip: Reserve Sagrada Família and Park Güell tickets weeks in advance, especially in summer.
9. The Dolomites, Italy
The Dolomites are nature’s masterpiece a dramatic blend of jagged peaks, emerald valleys, and storybook villages. In summer, hike trails like Tre Cime di Lavaredo or Lago di Braies, where the reflections are postcard-perfect. In winter, ski the Sella Ronda circuit or sip hot chocolate in cozy alpine lodges.
Drive through Val Gardena or Cortina d’Ampezzo for breathtaking vistas that change with every curve.
Stay: Ortisei, Selva di Val Gardena, or Cortina for easy trail access.
Best Time: June–September for hiking, December–March for skiing.
Zee Tip: Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore remote lakes and mountain passes often missed by bus tours.
10. London, England
London’s blend of history and modernity makes it endlessly fascinating. Start with the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and Big Ben, then lose yourself in world-class museums like the British Museum or Tate Modern, many are free!
Cruise the Thames River, shop along Oxford Street, and unwind in Hyde Park or Notting Hill’s pastel streets. For theater fans, catching a West End show is non-negotiable.
Stay: South Kensington or Covent Garden for convenience and atmosphere.
Best Time: May–September for long days and summer events.
Zee Tip: Use contactless payments on the Tube, it’s faster and cheaper than paper tickets.
11. Chania, Crete, Greece
Chania feels like the Mediterranean distilled bright blue waters, whitewashed houses, and old Venetian charm. Wander the Old Venetian Harbor, where colorful buildings meet the sea, then explore the Agora Market for local olive oil, honey, and herbs.
Spend a day swimming at Elafonissi Beach or hiking the Samaria Gorge, and wind down with sunset seafood by the waterfront.
Stay: Near the Old Port for atmosphere or Agii Apostoli for peace and sea access.
Best Time: May–October for warm, swimmable weather.
Zee Tip: Visit the Maritime Museum for a quick yet fascinating look at Crete’s seafaring history.
12. Annecy, France
Nestled between a turquoise lake and snow-capped mountains, Annecy feels like a secret slice of France that few international tourists know about. The Old Town’s canals are lined with pastel houses and flower boxes, and the Lac d’Annecy is crystal clear for swimming or paddleboarding.Take a leisurely bike ride around the lake or hike to Semnoz for sweeping Alpine views. Evenings are best spent dining on raclette or fondue at a local bistro.
Stay: Within the Old Town or near the lake promenade for postcard views.
Best Time: June–September for lake activities or December for its winter market.
Zee Tip: Visit on market days (Tuesday, Friday, Sunday) for regional cheeses, charcuterie, and handmade crafts.
Budgeting for Your First Europe Trip
- Daily Range: €80–€200 depending on country and season.
- Accommodation: Book early especially in Paris, Rome, and Amsterdam.
- Transport: Use rail passes only if you’ll take 4+ long-distance trains; otherwise, point-to-point tickets are cheaper.
- Meals: Mix sit-down dinners with bakeries, food markets, or casual cafés to keep costs balanced.
Essential Logistics
Travel Insurance: Non-negotiable for Europe covers delays, lost baggage, and medical emergencies.
SIM Cards: eSIMs like Airalo or local prepaid options (Orange, Vodafone, etc.) work well.
Adapters: Type C, E, or F plugs; bring a universal adapter if hopping countries.
Currency: The Euro dominates, but remember the UK, Switzerland, and parts of Eastern Europe have their own currencies.
Do I need a visa for Europe?
Most travelers from the U.S., Canada, UK, and Australia can stay up to 90 days in the Schengen Zone visa-free. Check ETIAS updates before 2026.
When’s the best time to visit?
Spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) offer mild weather and smaller crowds. Summer brings long days but higher prices.
How much should I book in advance?
Book flights 2–3 months ahead, hotels 3–6 weeks out, and skip-the-line attraction tickets as early as possible.
What’s the easiest way to travel between countries?
Trains for short hops (under 5 hours), budget flights for longer stretches, and buses for budget travelers.
Is it safe to travel solo?
Yes! Europe is generally safe. Use standard precautions keep valuables close and stay aware in crowded areas.
Final Thoughts: Your First Europe Trip Awaits
Planning your first Europe trip is both exciting and empowering. The train rides between countries, the different accents and flavors it’s like flipping through a living storybook.
Start simple. Pick a route that flows, don’t try to do everything, and give yourself permission to slow down. Europe isn’t meant to be “checked off” it’s meant to be experienced.
When you return home, your suitcase might be lighter, but your heart will be full of stories.
