Exploring Europe is a dream for many travelers, offering a mix of history, culture, and stunning landscapes. Planning a Europe trip might seem daunting, especially if you only have two weeks to explore. This guide will help you craft the perfect two-week Europe itinerary, ensuring you make the most out of your trip.

How to Plan a Europe Itinerary

Planning a Europe itinerary requires careful consideration of several factors. Here are some key steps to help you get started:

1. Define your interests

First, identify what you want to experience in Europe. Are you interested in history, culture, nature, food, or a mix of everything? This will help you decide which cities and countries to include in your itinerary.

2. Set your budget

Europe can be as affordable or as luxurious as you want it to be. Setting a budget will help you narrow down your choices and plan accordingly. Consider accommodation, transportation, food, and activities when creating your budget.

✨You can also take a guided European tour that is about 2 weeks long to avoid the hassle of planning and booking your trip.

3. Choose your destinationsand route

Europe is vast, so it’s essential to narrow down your list of must-visit places. Consider the following popular cities and regions:

Western Europe – Paris, London, Amsterdam

Central Europe – Berlin, Prague, Vienna

Southern Europe – Rome, Barcelona, Athens

Northern Europe – Copenhagen, Stockholm, Oslo

A well-planned route is crucial for a successful trip. Think about the geography of Europe and try to minimize travel time between destinations.

4. Choose your mode of transport

Europe offers various transportation options, including trains, buses, and flights. Trains are often the most scenic and convenient way to travel between cities, especially in Western Europe. Budget airlines and long-distance buses are also viable options for longer distances.

5. Book accommodation in advance

Booking accommodation in advance, especially during peak seasons, can save you money and ensure you have a place to stay. Consider staying in centrally located hotels or hostels to maximize your sightseeing time.

2-Week Europe Itinerary Ideas

Creating the perfect two-week Europe itinerary depends on your interests and preferences. Here are three sample itineraries to inspire your planning:

Itinerary 1: Classic Europe Tour from London

Day 1-3: London, United Kingdom

• Visit the British Museum, Tower of London, and Buckingham Palace.
• Take a ride on the London Eye and explore the South Bank.

Day 4-6: Paris, France

• See the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral.
• Stroll through Montmartre and enjoy a Seine River cruise.

Day 7-8: Amsterdam, Netherlands

• Visit the Anne Frank House and Van Gogh Museum.
• Explore the canals and visit the Rijksmuseum.

Day 9-10: Berlin, Germany

• Discover the Berlin Wall, Brandenburg Gate, and Museum Island.
• Experience the vibrant nightlife in Kreuzberg.

Day 11-12: Prague, Czech Republic

• Explore Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, and Old Town Square.
• Enjoy traditional Czech cuisine and beer.

Day 13-14: Vienna, Austria

• Visit Schönbrunn Palace, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, and the Hofburg.
• Attend a classical concert or opera.

Itinerary 2: Classic Western Europe from Paris

Day 1-3: Paris, France

• Visit iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral.
• Stroll along the Champs-Élysées and enjoy a Seine River cruise.
• Sample French cuisine at local bistros.

Day 4-5: Brussels, Belgium

• Explore the Grand Place and Atomium.
• Visit the European Parliament and enjoy Belgian waffles and chocolate.

Day 6-7: Amsterdam, Netherlands

• Tour the Anne Frank House and Van Gogh Museum.
• Take a canal cruise and bike through Vondelpark.

Day 8-9: Berlin, Germany

• Discover the Berlin Wall, Brandenburg Gate, and Checkpoint Charlie.
• Visit the Berlin Cathedral and Museum Island.

Day 10-12: Prague, Czech Republic

• Wander through Prague Castle and Charles Bridge.
• Enjoy the Old Town Square and Astronomical Clock.

Day 13-14: Vienna, Austria

• Explore Schönbrunn Palace and St. Stephen’s Cathedral.
• Visit the Vienna State Opera and Belvedere Palace.

Itinerary 3: Southern Europe Highlights

Day 1-3: Rome, Italy

• Visit the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Vatican City.
• Toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain and enjoy Italian gelato.

Day 4-5: Florence, Italy

• See Michelangelo’s David and visit the Uffizi Gallery.
• Explore the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio.

Day 6-7: Venice, Italy

• Take a gondola ride and visit St. Mark’s Basilica.
• Wander through the Doge’s Palace and Rialto Bridge.

Day 8-9: Barcelona, Spain

• Marvel at Sagrada Familia and Park Güell.
• Stroll down La Rambla and enjoy tapas in the Gothic Quarter.

Day 10-12: Madrid, Spain

• Visit the Royal Palace, Prado Museum, and Retiro Park.
• Enjoy a flamenco show and try churros with chocolate.

Day 13-14: Lisbon, Portugal

• Explore Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery.
• Ride the historic Tram 28 and enjoy views from São Jorge Castle.

Itinerary 4: Central and Eastern Europe

Day 1-3: Budapest, Hungary

• Relax at the Széchenyi Thermal Bath and visit Buda Castle.
• Cruise the Danube River and see the Parliament Building.

Day 4-5: Krakow, Poland

• Discover the historic Wawel Castle and Auschwitz-Birkenau.
• Wander through the Old Town and Kazimierz district.

Day 6-7: Vienna, Austria

• Explore Schönbrunn Palace and St. Stephen’s Cathedral.
• Visit the Vienna State Opera and Belvedere Palace.

Day 8-9: Bratislava, Slovakia

• Tour Bratislava Castle and St. Martin’s Cathedral.
• Walk through the Old Town and enjoy Slovak cuisine.

Day 10-11: Prague, Czech Republic

• Wander through Prague Castle and Charles Bridge.
• Enjoy the Old Town Square and Astronomical Clock.

Day 12-14: Berlin, Germany

• Discover the Berlin Wall, Brandenburg Gate, and Checkpoint Charlie.
• Visit the Berlin Cathedral and Museum Island.

Best European River Cruise Itineraries

If you prefer a more relaxed way to see Europe, consider a river cruise. Popular options include:

Rhine River Cruise: Explore cities like Amsterdam, Cologne, and Basel while enjoying scenic views of castles and vineyards.

Danube River Cruise: Visit Budapest, Vienna, and Bratislava, experiencing the rich history and culture of Central Europe.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a 2-week trip to Europe cost?

Costs can vary greatly depending on travel style, destinations, and activities. A budget of $3,000 to $5,000 per person is a good starting point, but it can be higher or lower depending on your preferences.

Is two weeks enough to see Europe?

While two weeks is not enough to see all of Europe, it’s sufficient to visit several key cities and get a good taste of the continent. Focus on a few regions or countries to make the most of your time.

What are some must-see cities in a two-week Europe itinerary?

Must-see cities often include London, Paris, Rome, Amsterdam, and Berlin. However, your choices should reflect your personal interests and travel style.

What are the must-pack items for a European vacation?

Pack comfortable walking shoes, as you’ll likely be doing a lot of exploring. An adapter plug is essential for charging your electronic devices. Research visa requirements for the countries you plan to visit and pack any necessary documentation.

How to make your Europe backpacking itinerary?

When backpacking, plan a logical route, stay in hostels, use rail passes, and pack light. This approach helps you save money and make the most of your trip.

Do I need to learn European languages before my trip?

While English is spoken in many tourist areas, learning a few basic phrases in the local language will enhance your experience and endear you to the locals.

Planning a two-week Europe itinerary involves careful preparation and consideration of your interests and budget. Whether you choose a classic tour of Western Europe, an exploration of Southern Europe, or an adventure through Central and Eastern Europe, each itinerary offers unique experiences and unforgettable memories.