If you’re asking me where to go on your first trip to Europe, my answer is always the same: start with Paris. The City of Light is the perfect introduction to the wonders of the Old World. Plan to spend at least four days here, soaking up the art, architecture, cuisine, and culture.
If you have more than five days to play with, consider starting your trip in Amsterdam. This charming Dutch city is a great place to shake off your jet lag and acclimate to the European way of life. Spend three days exploring Amsterdam’s canals, museums, and cafes, then hop on a train to Paris for another four days of adventure.
For an even more diverse first-time itinerary, add a stop in Belgium to your Amsterdam-Paris route. Cities like Antwerp, Bruges, and Ghent offer a delightful mix of medieval charm and modern cool. With eight days total, you could spend two days in Amsterdam, one day in Belgium, and four days in Paris.
Second Trip: Follow Your Interests
Once you’ve gotten a taste of Europe on your first trip, your second visit is all about diving deeper into what interests you most. Two countries that always top my list for a second European adventure are Spain and Italy.
Spain: Easy on the Wallet, Big on Charm
Spain is a fantastic choice for budget-conscious travelers who still want a full and fascinating itinerary. The country is well set up for tourism, with excellent infrastructure and a warm, welcoming culture.
Here’s a sample 9-day itinerary for Spain:
- Barcelona (3 days): Start your trip in this vibrant Catalan city, known for its stunning Gaudí architecture, lively beaches, and world-class dining scene.
- Valencia (1 day): Take a quick train ride down the coast to Valencia, home of paella and a futuristic arts and science complex.
- Granada (1 day): Head inland to Granada, where you can explore the magnificent Alhambra palace and soak up the city’s Moorish heritage.
- Nerja (1 day): Take a break from the cities with a night in this charming Costa del Sol beach town.
- Ronda (1 day): Head into the mountains to visit Ronda, known for its dramatic gorge and historic bullring.
- Seville (2 days): End your trip in the heart of Andalusia, where you can marvel at the massive cathedral, stroll through the lush Alcázar gardens, and experience the passion of flamenco.
Of course, there are countless ways to customize this itinerary based on your interests and travel style. You could add a day in Madrid to see world-class museums like the Prado, or spend a night in a rural parador to get a taste of old-world Spain. The possibilities are endless.
Italy: A Feast for the Senses
Italy is another perennial favorite for a second European trip. From the ancient ruins of Rome to the romantic canals of Venice to the rolling hills of Tuscany, this country offers an embarrassment of riches for travelers.
That said, Italy can be a bit more challenging than Spain for some visitors. Prices tend to be higher, especially in popular cities like Rome and Venice. And the Italian way of life, while charming, can sometimes frustrate travelers who are used to a more rigid schedule.
But don’t let those minor challenges deter you. With a bit of planning and a healthy dose of patience, Italy will reward you with some of the most unforgettable experiences of your life.
Here are a few must-see destinations for any first-time Italy itinerary:
- Rome (4 days): No visit to Italy is complete without a stop in the Eternal City. From the Colosseum to the Vatican to the Trevi Fountain, Rome is packed with iconic sights. Plan to spend at least four days here to do it justice.
- Venice (2 days): Venice is unlike any other city on Earth, with its winding canals, grand palazzos, and atmospheric alleyways. Two days is the minimum to get a taste of this enchanting city.
- Florence (2-3 days): If you have more time, consider adding a stop in Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance. Here you can marvel at masterpieces like Michelangelo’s David and Botticelli’s Birth of Venus, and indulge in Tuscan specialties like bistecca alla fiorentina.
Other possible additions to your Italy itinerary could include the colorful cliff-side villages of the Cinque Terre, the medieval towers of San Gimignano, or the rolling vineyards of Chianti. Again, the options are virtually limitless.
Off the Beaten Path: Portugal and Southern France
If you’ve already hit the major highlights of Europe on previous trips, consider venturing a bit off the beaten path for your next adventure. Two regions that I highly recommend are Portugal and the South of France.
Portugal: A Hidden Gem
Portugal is often overlooked by travelers in favor of its larger neighbor, Spain. But those who do venture to this small country on the western edge of Europe are in for a treat.
Portugal offers a compelling mix of historic cities, stunning beaches, delicious cuisine, and warm, welcoming people. Best of all, it’s one of the most affordable destinations in Western Europe, making it a great choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Here’s a sample 7-day Portugal itinerary:
- Porto (2 days): Start your trip in Portugal’s second city, known for its charming riverfront district and the famous port wine lodges across the Douro River in Vila Nova de Gaia.
- Lisbon (3 days): Next, head to the capital city of Lisbon, where you can ride historic trams, explore the winding streets of the Alfama district, and indulge in delicious pastéis de nata (custard tarts).
- The Algarve (2 days): End your trip with a relaxing stay on the sunny beaches of the Algarve, Portugal’s southern coast. Base yourself in a town like Lagos or Tavira and spend your days soaking up the sun, exploring sea caves and grottoes, and enjoying fresh seafood.
Southern France: La Belle Vie
If you’re looking for a bit of Mediterranean glamour and old-world charm, look no further than the South of France. This sun-drenched region is the perfect place to slow down, savor the good life, and indulge in some of the best food and wine on the planet.
Here are a few of my favorite spots in the South of France, each worth at least two nights:
- Nice: The unofficial capital of the French Riviera, Nice is a great base for exploring the region. Don’t miss the colorful Cours Saleya market, the stunning views from Castle Hill, and the iconic Promenade des Anglais along the waterfront.
- Aix-en-Provence: This chic university town is the perfect place to soak up the laid-back Provençal lifestyle. Stroll the tree-lined Cours Mirabeau, sip a coffee at a sidewalk cafe, and explore the colorful markets and boutiques.
- Cassis: For a taste of the Mediterranean, head to the charming fishing village of Cassis. Take a boat trip to the nearby Calanques (rocky inlets), hike to the Cap Canaille for stunning views, and indulge in fresh seafood and crisp Provençal rosé.
- Arles: Art lovers won’t want to miss Arles, where Vincent van Gogh painted some of his most famous works. Visit the Van Gogh Foundation to see the places that inspired him, and explore the town’s well-preserved Roman ruins, including an ancient amphitheater.
Making Your European Dream a Reality
Of course, these are just a few of the countless possible itineraries for a European vacation. The key is to choose a trip that aligns with your interests, budget, and travel style.
If you’re a history buff, you might want to focus on ancient cities like Athens or Rome. If you’re a foodie, consider a culinary tour of Spain or Italy. If you’re an art lover, you can’t go wrong with Paris, Florence, or Amsterdam.
The beauty of Europe is that there truly is something for all. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned pro, this diverse and endlessly fascinating continent will welcome you with open arms.
So what are you waiting for? Start dreaming, start planning, and start packing. Your European adventure awaits!
