Embarking on a two-week journey through Europe offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the continent’s rich tapestry of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. From the regal charm of London to the romantic allure of Paris, and the ancient wonders of Rome, Europe presents a diverse array of experiences that cater to every traveller’s desires. This carefully curated itinerary guides you through some of the most iconic destinations, ensuring you make the most of your fortnight adventure.
Western european capitals circuit: london, paris, and rome
Begin your European odyssey with a trio of capitals that have shaped the course of Western civilisation. These cities offer a perfect blend of historical significance and modern vibrancy, setting the stage for an unforgettable journey.
London’s royal heritage: buckingham palace to tower bridge
Start your adventure in London, a city where centuries-old traditions seamlessly coexist with cutting-edge trends. Your first stop should be Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British monarch. Time your visit to witness the Changing of the Guard, a ceremonial spectacle steeped in royal tradition. From there, make your way to the Tower of London, a fortress that has played a pivotal role in English history for nearly a millennium.
As you stroll along the South Bank of the Thames, you’ll encounter iconic landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben. Cross the river via the magnificent Tower Bridge, an engineering marvel that offers stunning views of the city skyline. Round off your London experience with a visit to the British Museum, home to an unparalleled collection of artefacts from around the world.
Parisian art trail: louvre to musée d’orsay
A short train ride on the Eurostar whisks you from London to Paris, the City of Light. Begin your Parisian adventure at the world-renowned Louvre Museum, where you can marvel at masterpieces like the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo. After lunch at a charming sidewalk café, make your way to the Musée d’Orsay, housed in a former railway station and boasting an impressive collection of Impressionist art.
As evening approaches, ascend the Eiffel Tower for panoramic views of Paris bathed in golden light. The next day, explore the charming neighbourhood of Montmartre, crowned by the stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica. Wander through its winding streets, once home to artists like Picasso and Van Gogh, before enjoying a romantic Seine river cruise to cap off your Parisian sojourn.
Ancient rome exploration: colosseum and roman forum
Your final Western European capital awaits as you fly to Rome, the Eternal City. Begin your exploration at the Colosseum, an architectural marvel that has stood for nearly two millennia. Imagine the roar of the crowds as gladiators once battled in this grand amphitheatre. Adjacent to the Colosseum lies the Roman Forum, the heart of ancient Rome’s political and social life.
No visit to Rome is complete without experiencing Vatican City. Marvel at Michelangelo’s frescoes in the Sistine Chapel and stand in awe of St. Peter’s Basilica, the largest church in the world. As you bid farewell to Rome, toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain, ensuring your return to this captivating city.
Rome is not like any other city. It’s a majestic museum, a living room to tiptoe through.
Central european cultural odyssey: prague, vienna, and budapest
Venturing into Central Europe, you’ll discover a region rich in imperial history, musical heritage, and architectural splendour. These cities offer a fascinating glimpse into the cultural tapestry of the former Austro-Hungarian Empire.
Prague’s architectural marvels: charles bridge to prague castle
Your Central European journey begins in Prague, the City of a Hundred Spires. Start your exploration at the iconic Charles Bridge, adorned with 30 Baroque statues and offering spectacular views of the Vltava River. As you cross into the Old Town, pause to admire the Astronomical Clock, a medieval marvel that has been keeping time for over 600 years.
Ascend to Prague Castle, the largest ancient castle complex in the world. Within its walls, you’ll find St. Vitus Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece that took nearly six centuries to complete. End your day with a stroll through the picturesque Golden Lane, once home to Franz Kafka.
Vienna’s musical legacy: schönbrunn palace and musikverein
From Prague, a comfortable train ride brings you to Vienna, a city synonymous with classical music and imperial grandeur. Begin at Schönbrunn Palace, the summer residence of the Habsburg rulers. Its lavish interiors and meticulously manicured gardens offer a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of Austria’s royal family.
In the evening, indulge in a quintessential Viennese experience by attending a concert at the Musikverein, renowned for its exceptional acoustics. The next day, explore the Kunsthistorisches Museum, home to masterpieces by Vermeer, Raphael, and Bruegel. Don’t forget to savour a slice of Sachertorte at one of Vienna’s elegant coffee houses, a tradition that dates back centuries.
Budapest’s thermal baths: széchenyi and gellért spas
The final stop on your Central European odyssey is Budapest, the Pearl of the Danube. This city is famous for its thermal baths, a legacy of both Roman and Turkish occupations. Start with a visit to the magnificent Széchenyi Baths, one of the largest spa complexes in Europe. Its outdoor pools, set against the backdrop of Neo-Baroque architecture, offer a uniquely Hungarian experience.
For a contrasting bathing experience, head to the Art Nouveau Gellért Baths, known for their stunning mosaics and stained-glass windows. In the evening, take a sunset cruise along the Danube, admiring the illuminated Parliament Building and Buda Castle. Conclude your Budapest stay with a visit to the Great Market Hall, where you can sample traditional Hungarian delicacies and pick up souvenirs.
Mediterranean coast and islands: barcelona, french riviera, and greek isles
As you transition from Central Europe to the Mediterranean, prepare for a change of pace and scenery. This leg of your journey combines vibrant coastal cities with idyllic island retreats, offering a perfect blend of culture, cuisine, and relaxation.
Gaudí’s barcelona: sagrada família and park güell
Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia, is a city that marches to its own beat. Begin your exploration with Antoni Gaudí’s unfinished masterpiece, the Sagrada Família. This awe-inspiring basilica, with its organic forms and intricate facades, is a testament to Gaudí’s unique vision. Next, venture to Park Güell, a whimsical public park that showcases Gaudí’s distinctive architectural style.
Stroll down Las Ramblas, Barcelona’s bustling pedestrian thoroughfare, before losing yourself in the narrow streets of the Gothic Quarter. End your day with a visit to the Picasso Museum, housing an extensive collection of the artist’s early works. Don’t forget to indulge in some tapas and cava, quintessential elements of Barcelona’s culinary scene.
Côte d’azur glamour: nice, cannes, and monaco
From Barcelona, make your way to the French Riviera, a stretch of coastline synonymous with luxury and glamour. Base yourself in Nice, known for its pebble beaches and charming old town. Take a day trip to Cannes, famous for its international film festival. Stroll along La Croisette, the waterfront promenade lined with designer boutiques and palatial hotels.
Another must-visit destination is the principality of Monaco. Marvel at the opulence of Monte Carlo Casino and witness the changing of the guard at the Prince’s Palace. For a dose of culture, visit the Oceanographic Museum, perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean.
Greek island hopping: santorini, mykonos, and crete
The final leg of your Mediterranean adventure takes you to the Greek Islands. Begin in Santorini, known for its breathtaking sunsets and distinctive white-washed architecture. Explore the picturesque village of Oia, perched on the caldera’s edge, and sample some of the island’s renowned wines.
Next, sail to Mykonos, famed for its vibrant nightlife and beautiful beaches. Wander through the narrow streets of Mykonos Town, admiring the iconic windmills and charming white-washed houses. Finally, conclude your island-hopping adventure in Crete, the largest Greek island. Visit the Palace of Knossos, the centre of the ancient Minoan civilisation, and relax on the pink sand beaches of Elafonisi.
The Greek Islands are not just a place, but a state of mind and a way of life.
Alpine adventure: swiss alps and bavarian highlands
Your European journey now takes you to the heart of the Alps, where majestic mountains, pristine lakes, and charming villages await. This segment of your trip offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences.
Jungfrau region: interlaken, grindelwald, and lauterbrunnen
Begin your Alpine adventure in Interlaken, nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. This town serves as the perfect base for exploring the Jungfrau region. Take the cogwheel train to Jungfraujoch, known as the “Top of Europe,” for panoramic views of the Aletsch Glacier and surrounding peaks.
Next, visit the charming village of Grindelwald, surrounded by towering mountains and lush meadows. For a dose of adrenaline, try paragliding or take a scenic gondola ride. Don’t miss Lauterbrunnen, a picturesque valley famous for its 72 thundering waterfalls, including the impressive Staubbach Falls.
Bavarian castles: neuschwanstein and hohenschwangau
Cross into Germany to explore the fairy-tale castles of Bavaria. Start with Neuschwanstein Castle, the inspiration for Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle. This enchanting 19th-century palace, perched atop a rugged hill, offers stunning views of the Bavarian countryside.
Just a short distance away lies Hohenschwangau Castle, the childhood residence of King Ludwig II. Take a guided tour to learn about the Bavarian royal family’s history and admire the romantic 19th-century murals adorning the walls. End your day in the charming town of Füssen, known for its colourful houses and medieval centre.
Zermatt and the matterhorn: Swiss-Italian border exploration
Return to Switzerland for the final leg of your Alpine journey. Head to Zermatt, a car-free village at the foot of the iconic Matterhorn. Take the Gornergrat railway for unparalleled views of the Matterhorn and surrounding glaciers. For the adventurous, consider hiking one of the many well-marked trails or skiing, even in summer, on the Theodul Glacier.
Cross the Swiss-Italian border to explore the Italian side of the Matterhorn in Breuil-Cervinia. This resort town offers a different perspective of the mountain and a chance to indulge in delicious Italian cuisine. End your Alpine adventure with a relaxing spa day, soaking in thermal baths while admiring the majestic mountain scenery.
Northern european fjords and capitals: oslo, stockholm, and copenhagen
The final leg of your European journey takes you to Scandinavia, a region known for its stunning natural beauty, innovative design, and high quality of life. Here, you’ll explore fjords, archipelagos, and vibrant capital cities.
Oslo’s viking history: fram museum and viking ship museum
Begin your Scandinavian adventure in Oslo, Norway’s capital. Start at the Fram Museum, which houses the strongest wooden ship ever built, used in polar expeditions. Next, visit the Viking Ship Museum to see remarkably well-preserved Viking ships and artefacts, offering insight into Norse culture and maritime prowess.
Take a stroll through Vigeland Sculpture Park, the world’s largest sculpture park created by a single artist. End your day with a visit to the Oslo Opera House, an architectural marvel that appears to rise from the waters of the Oslo Fjord.
Stockholm archipelago: vaxholm and sandhamn day trips
From Oslo, take a scenic train ride to Stockholm, often called the “Venice of the North” due to its archipelago setting. Explore the old town, Gamla Stan, with its narrow cobblestone streets and colourful 17th and 18th-century buildings. Visit the Vasa Museum to see a fully intact 17th-century warship that sank on its maiden voyage.
Dedicate a day to exploring the Stockholm archipelago. Take a ferry to Vaxholm, known for its fortress and charming wooden houses. For a taste of island life, continue to Sandhamn, a popular summer retreat with beautiful beaches and scenic hiking trails.
Copenhagen’s design scene: danish design museum and strøget
Conclude your Scandinavian tour in Copenhagen, a city renowned for its design and culinary scenes. Start at the Danish Design Museum to understand the principles of Danish design and its global influence. Then, stroll down Strøget, one of Europe’s longest pedestrian shopping streets, showcasing both international brands and local Danish designers.
Visit the colourful Nyhavn harbour, lined with 17th and 18th-century townhouses, cafes, and restaurants. For a touch of whimsy, head to Tivoli Gardens, the world’s second-oldest operating amusement park. End your trip with a visit to the innovative Reffen street food market, where you can sample a variety of cuisines in repurposed shipping containers.
In Copenhagen, design is not just about aesthetics; it’s a way of life that prioritises functionality, sustainability, and human well-being.
Efficient Inter-City travel: rail passes and budget airlines
Navigating between European cities efficiently is crucial to maximising your two-week itinerary. A combination of rail travel and strategic flights can help you cover more ground without exhausting your time or budget.
Eurail global pass: maximizing train travel across borders
The Eurail Global Pass is an excellent investment for travellers planning to visit multiple countries. This flexible pass allows unlimited train travel in 33 European countries, offering a cost-effective and scenic way to traverse the continent. It’s particularly useful for journeys between neighbouring countries, such as France and Switzerland or Germany and Austria.
To make the most of your Eurail Pass, consider the following tips:
- Book seat reservations in advance for popular routes, especially during peak season
- Take advantage of night trains to save on accommodation costs
- Use the Eurail app to plan routes and check train schedules in real-time
- Consider first-class passes for added comfort on longer journeys
Low-cost carriers: ryanair and EasyJet route networks
For longer distances or when time is of the essence, budget airlines like Ryanair and EasyJet offer an economical alternative to train travel. These carriers operate extensive route networks across Europe, often flying to secondary airports that are well-connected to city centres.
When booking budget flights, keep these factors in mind:
- Book well in advance for the best fares
- Be aware of baggage restrictions an
d additional fees
Overnight trains: saving time and accommodation costs
Overnight trains offer a unique way to maximize your travel time and budget. By travelling while you sleep, you can cover long distances without losing a day to transit. Many European night trains offer comfortable sleeping accommodations, from couchettes to private cabins.
Some popular overnight train routes include:
- Paris to Venice on the Thello sleeper train
- Berlin to Budapest on the EuroNight train
- Stockholm to Narvik on the Arctic Circle train
When booking overnight trains, consider these tips:
- Book well in advance, especially during peak season
- Choose your accommodation type based on your comfort needs and budget
- Pack a small overnight bag with essentials for easy access
- Bring earplugs and an eye mask for a better night’s sleep
By combining rail passes, budget flights, and strategic overnight train journeys, you can create a seamless and cost-effective travel plan that allows you to experience the best of Europe in just two weeks. Remember, the journey is often as memorable as the destination, so embrace the diverse modes of transport as part of your European adventure.
Travel is not just about the places you visit, but the experiences you have along the way. Each train ride, flight, or overnight journey adds a unique chapter to your European story.