europe day trips

26 Great European Day Trips by Rail / Bus

Last Updated on April 4, 2024

Many travelers to Europe don’t consider extending their time in one city and taking a day trip to other cities nearby. However, it’s often worthwhile and very affordable, especially if you’re using a rail pass.

There are numerous and fascinating day trips you can take wherever you travel in Europe. Most times the fastest and most comfortable means of getting to those destinations is by train. A shorter version of this article appeared in Never Stop Traveling three years ago. We’ve now updated both the time of travel and fares, which in some cases are less than they were previously. We’ve also added bus travel as an option since it is usually the least expensive mode of transportation. And, finally, we’ve included an additional 12 city pairs to the list, making a total of 26.  I hope this will be helpful on your future trips to Europe.

UPDATED FOR 2024

Estimated reading time: 27 minutes

By Jim Ferri

Although travelers in Europe usually don’t think of them, you can take great day trips by rail to many destinations. This lets you see a lot more without having to pack and unpack at every stop.

Most travelers, however, only use their rail passes, or buy tickets for, long-distance travel. Say, perhaps, traveling from Paris to Berlin or Rome to Zurich. But it makes sense to also use trains for day trips at your primary destination.

Train trips in Europe are usually quite good and comfortable. With a rail pass or a discount, they are also relatively inexpensive. You can often cut those costs even more by making the trip on a comfortable modern bus. The caveat is that bus travel is usually much longer, although there are exceptions.

Day trips are easily doable in Europe, where significant places of interest are often close together. And they’re all usually connected by an excellent rail system. All over Europe, you’ll find a treasure trove of European day trips. Many are well worth tacking an extra day onto your itinerary. 

26 Good European Day Trips

Here are 26 good European day trips by rail that are well worth the time. Better yet, they are also relatively inexpensive, as well. Many are only a one-or-two-hour ride each way (one only 14 minutes), some two-three hours, two over three hours. We have not included any that were four hours or longer.

We have, however, included information on bus travel which may be of interest to those who want to curtail costs even more.

If you feel a long ride leaves you too little time to see a city, consider making it overnight, staying at a hotel near the station.

All prices quoted are for one-way tickets in 2024.

If you have a Eurail Pass, these trips may be completely “free,” depending on the type of pass you’ve purchased. But always check in advance whether you’ll need to make a reservation.

Also, check to see if the trip requires a change of trains or buses. And ensure that you’re leaving from the correct station since large cities often have several rail and bus stations.

Amsterdam ­– Delft: A Short, Pleasant European Side Trip

Train: 1h  ($12-30)  |  Bus: 1h 10m  ($8-12)

I returned to Delft after many years and found it as charming as ever . It’s so close to Amsterdam and just a stone’s throw from Rotterdam, and it’s lovely with old brick buildings, brick streets, brick sidewalks, and more bikes than you can count.

It’s a quiet place that charms you with its shops, cafes and restaurants. There are also centuries of culture that beckon from all over town. Be sure to relax with a drink in one of the cafés in Markt Square, which sits between the bookends of the old Nieuwe Kerk (New Church) and the ornate city hall.

And, as you might guess, you’ll find plenty of antique shops selling the old Delft ceramics. After leaving the antique shops, relax in one of the city’s good restaurants to gloat over your treasures.

Brussels – Bruges: A Great European Day Trip

Train: 1h 3m  ($11-16)  |  bus: 1h 20m  ($10-15).

Little Bruges is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Belgium . It’s an incredibly charming and stunningly beautiful city, basically because the compact city center is closed off to cars. You can easily explore it on foot, by boat along quiet canals, or by horse-drawn carriage on cobblestone streets.

Visit the old Markt Square, the serene Begijnhof, the superb 11-room Groeninge Museum, and take a canal tour. One of the city’s biggest draws is its numerous chocolate shops, each with its fans. It’s worth a trip from Brussels just to take a chocolate tour of the town.

Brussels – Ghent: A Fast-Train Day Trip 

Train: 35m  ($7-11)  |  Bus: 55m  ($7-11)

This is one of the shortest train trips in Europe for a one-day getaway. While many travelers set their sights on famous Bruges,  even closer to Brussels is Ghent, a magnificent city  that, like Bruges, is also crossed by canals. The difference is that Ghent is more spread out and has many broad open spaces in addition to a wealth of beautiful architecture.

In fact, there are more listed historic buildings in Ghent than in any other Belgian city. In medieval times, Ghent was one of the largest cities in Europe, second only to Paris, and today it continues to have an abundance of museums and galleries. Also, nowhere else have I seen anything like Ghent’s Castle of the Counts, a massive castle at street level right in the middle of a city.

Dublin – Belfast: More Than the Titanic Museum

Train: 2h 10m  ($28-40) | Bus: 2h 25m  ($27-40)

Belfast is more than just the capital of Northern Ireland . It’s a charming and fascinating city with plenty to do and easy to reach via a trip by train from Dublin.  Certainly, don’t miss the Titanic Museum, an incredible place  that tells the story of the building of the great, ill-fated ship and of life in Belfast at the time.

Also, don’t miss Belfast Cathedral, St. George’s Market (open on Fridays only), and the Crown Liquor Saloon. But, of course, the best way to get a good overview of the city is to take a tour with a driver in one of the city’s famous Black Taxis, which will also give you access to the once-troubled Catholic-Protestant neighborhood.

Florence – Venice: More Than Gondolas

Train: 2h 14m  ($22-85)  |  Bus 4h 35m  ($25-35)

Venice is one of the most beautiful and unique cities in the world. First-timers can get a good taste of the city on this European day trip from Florence.

After you arrive at Venezia Santa Lucia Station in Venice, walk out the front of the station and buy a day ticket for the Vaporetto. Board Vaporetto #1 and take it to Piazza San Marco (St. Mark’s Square), one of the most famous places in Italy. If it’s your first time in Venice, you’ll find this trip itself worth the price of the train ride here.

Visit the Basilica and if you go up to the loggia you’ll have a nice view of the Piazza. Then wander around the nearby streets before heading back to the Rialto Bridge on the Vaporetto. Certainly, if you can, visit the nearby fish market (Pescheria di Rialto).

Although it’s a lot of fun just wandering aimlessly about Venice, the city does have some outstanding museums. You may want to visit the Gallerie dell’Accademia , is home to one of the most significant collections of Venetian paintings in the world . There are also several other notable museums in the city. And find a cozy café or ristorante for a late lunch or early dinner before heading to the station.

Frankfurt – Heidelberg: An Über Popular European Day Trip

Train: 1h5m  ($16-40)  |  Bus: 1h 39m  ($11-16)

Heidelberg is not only one of Germany’s most picturesque cities, but it also holds the record for the most European day trips in Germany every year, about 3 million in all.

Once the center of political power, it’s a lively, beautiful university town (the first university in Germany) that’s great for walking and wandering, from the Old Bridge on the Nectar River to the world-renowned castle above the city.

Although the castle is mostly in ruins, be sure to visit it – in addition to boasting the most significant wine barrel in the world, it also provides beautiful views of the city below.

Geneva – Zurich: A Beautiful City

Train: 2h 41m  ($95-170)  |  Bus: 3h 50m  ($15-40)

Zurich’s well-deserved reputation as a global center of bank belies the fact that it’s also a beautiful city worth visiting. Switzerland’s largest city, it has a picturesque, pre-medieval Altstadt (Old Town) where one can wander for hours . Interactive exhibits in the Swiss National Museum – that takes you from pre-history to the present – could also while away hours.

If you enjoy art you’ll find one of the most important art collections in Switzerland in the Kunsthaus Zürich . In the Fraumünster Church you’ll find the artwork of Chagall in the beautiful stained glass windows. Walk through Paradeplatz in downtown Zurich and you’ll find world-renowned banks and the most expensive real estate in Switzerland . You’ll find Paradeplatz on Bahnhofstrasse among plenty of high-end shops.

Helsinki, Finland – St. Petersburg, Russia: The White Nights

Train: 5h 57m  ($41-60)  |  Bus: 7h 55m  ($30-70)

St. Petersburg, is easily accessible from nearby Helsinki, which itself was once part of the Russian Empire . This is the reason parts of the city have a Russian aura.

It’s just a bit over 200 miles from Helsinki to St. Petersburg, which makes this European day trip comparatively easy. the second-largest city in Russia. It’s the cultural heart of the country and home to The Hermitage, one of the outstanding museums of the world. You could easily spend an entire day there, but this is a beautiful city with much to see and do.

On the banks of the River Neva, it’s a city known for its canals and cathedrals, palaces, and terraces, and seemingly hundreds of bridges. In Russia, it is unmatched in its splendor. It’s also the northernmost of the great cities of Russia, known for its famous “white nights” in late June and early July.

Lisbon – Coimbra: Portugal’s University City

Train: 1h 36m ($14-20)  |  Bus: 2h 20m ($14-50)

Coimbra is a city of medieval churches and a maze of medieval streets. In fact, Coimbra  is so picturesque you’ll think you’re in another time,  which is likely why some consider it the most romantic city in Portugal. It’s an interesting day trip by train from Lisbon or Porto. Although it was once the capital of Portugal, today, Coimbra is better known for its university, one of the oldest in Europe. You’ll still see students all around the city, identified by the black capes they still wear. Visit Santa Cruz Monastery, a national monument, and the resting place of two of Portugal’s early kings , and the Convent of Santa Clara, the final resting place of the former Portuguese Queen St. Isabel. Wander around the old town near the tourist office near the river, and you’ll find a miniature “best of Coimbra” all rolled into one relatively compact area.

London – Bath: A Good European Day Trip

Train: 1h 20m  ($60-140)  |  bus: 3h 20m  ($27-40).

Famous as a European day trip by train from London, Bath offers a glimpse into Roman (with the best-preserved ancient temple and baths in Northern Europe) and 18th-century Georgian Britain. In addition to visiting the Roman baths, see the adjacent Bath Abbey, built-in 1499, and the Royal Crescent often called the most majestic street in Britain. Number One Royal Crescent, a home museum that provides a glimpse into aristocratic life in the 18th century, is quite interesting. From there, walk up to the Circus and over to the Jane Austen Centre. In addition, the small Holburne Museum, on the other side of the city, provides a pleasant short museum experience for day-trippers.

London – Brussels: Gourmet Food and European Charm on This Trip

(Chunnel) Train: 2h 4m  ($125-350)

Undoubtedly one of the most popular cities in Europe, Brussels is historic and beautiful. It’s a good European day trip from many cities, not just London. It’s a very charming and walkable city with a lot to see and enjoy.

First, visit the city’s magnificent masterpiece, the Grand Place, and its incredible ancient guild houses. Then head over to see the Manneken Pis, the icon of the town.

Brussels is also a city of great art, considered wonderful by some, weird by others. Walk about the Place Royal and visit the world-class Musee Magritte and Musees Royauxdes Beaux-Art de Belgique . And visit some of the chocolate shops on Place du Grand Sablon.

Above all, leave time to relax in one of the city’s famous restaurants . Rue des Bouchers is one of the streets renown for its many cafes and ambiance.

London – Paris: A City Like No Other on Any European Trip

(Chunnel) Train: 2h 16m  ($130-410)  |  Bus: 9h 30m  ($35-60)

There’s a lot to see in Paris, undeniably one of the most beautiful cities in the world. On this European day trip, If you take the early morning Chunnel train and return to London on the night train, you can squeeze a lot into the day. The first thing to do is buy a carnet of Metro cards in the train café to avoid wasting time standing in line at metro stations. 

Head for Montmartre for a quick taste of old Paris after you arrive at the Gare du Nord in Paris at about 10am . Have some crêpes or a glass of wine in one of its little cafés before heading for a few hours in one of the city’s great museums. When I took the trip, I visited the Musée d’Orsay. It’s a fantastic museum that’s just about the right size for a short visit. Then wander about the Left Bank or walk over to the Eiffel Tower. Finally, leave time for dinner at one of the restaurants near the train station.  

Madrid – Barcelona: A Wonderful City

Train: 2h 30m  ($24-85)  |  Bus: 9h 27m  ($42-145)

This is another excellent and outstanding European train trip to an incredible city. What makes Barcelona stand out is its trove of nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites , all architectural treasures. (For some perspective, the entire city of Paris has one.) As you should with any of these day trips, ensure that you purchase any tickets online to skip the line. The problem may be, however, that you’ll have a timed entry. If you can, certainly see La Sagrada Família, one of the most incredible churches anywhere (and still under construction) designed by Antoni Gaudi. Visit the Gothic Quarter and the famous Picasso Museum. Have a quick lunch in a tapas bar.  Tour at least one other of Gaudi’s masterpieces, perhaps Casa Batlló or La Pedrera . And above all, find a good restaurant near the train station that evening – Barcelona is a great city for foodies.

Madrid – Segovia: Where Madrialeños Go for Lunch

Train: 1h 28m  ($10-37)  |  Bus: 1h 20m  ($7-11)

Because of Madrid’s central location in Spain, many European travelers take day trips  from the Spanish capital. A significant number opt for Toledo, the former home of the artist El Greco, about a half-hour train ride south of the city.

Madrialeños, though,  head north to Segovia, a wonderful old town with medieval walls , a former royal palace, and a great ancient Roman aqueduct, still intact in the city’s center. They don’t come here for a history lesson, but for the food since Segovia is a renowned food town.

Wander the old streets and lanes and then have a leisurely lunch in one of the cafés on the Plaza Mayor near the Gothic Cathedral (the last built in Spain) or beneath El Acueducto in the Plaza Azoguejo.

Madrid ­– Sevilla: A Very Seductive City

Train: 2h 43m  ($30-70) | Bus: 6h 25m  ($35-65)

You’ll likely love Sevilla, perhaps Spain’s most seductive city. Stroll along Avenida de la Constitución, the main pedestrian-only artery in the heart of the town, to Seville Cathedral. It’s the third largest in Christendom and the final resting place of Christopher Columbus. Across from it is the magnificent Real Alcázar (Royal Palace).  A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s the oldest Royal Palace still in use in Europe. Also visit  the Museo de Bellas Artes (Museum of Fine Arts), set in a restored convent  if you have time.

It has the most outstanding collection of Spanish art outside of the Prado in Madrid. Also, visit the extravagantly tiled Plaza de Espana, built for the 1929 Ibero-American Exposition. From Madrid it’s an easy and pleasent European trip.

Milan, Italy – Lugano, Switzerland: A Taste of Ticino

Train: 1h 15m  ($26-70)  |  no bus service

Here’s the best of two worlds – the ambiance of laid-back Italy combined with everything-works-on-time Switzerland.

Lugano is Switzerland’s “Little Italy,” a place where attitudes, customs, and food are more Italian than anywhere else in the country.  Even many of its buildings are built in Italianate Lombardy style. This is a good and scenic train trip in Europe. Stroll along its palm-lined lakeside or across one of its piazzas, and you’ll see for yourself. The city’s center is a cluster of little neighborhoods, each with a different feel, that spill out into numerous small piazzas.

In October, it hosts the  Festa d’Autunno , which features gastronomic delicacies, wines, and typical regional products.

Munich, Germany – Salzburg, Austria: The Sound of Music 

Train: 1h 29m  ($21-170)  |  Bus: 1h 50m  ($10-21)

Salzburg is a beautiful city made for walking.  First, visit beautiful Mirabell Gardens, where parts of the Sound of Music were filmed , then cross the river into the old town. This is a great European trip by train through the beautiful countryside.

Once in Salzburg you’ll feel that you’ve stepped back into another century, and you can wander about it for hours. Next, visit Mozart’s birthplace (9 Getreidegasse), Salzburg Cathedral, the famous Residenzplatz, and the beautiful Mirabell Gardens for the iconic view of the castle looking over the city (even better, take the funicular up to it) .

Finally, go for a carriage ride but be sure to leave time to while away in a café.

Paris – Versailles: An Incredible Royal Residence  

Train: 26m  ($3-11)  |  No buses listed – Taxi: 25m  ($35-45)

If you visit no other château in France on a European trip, visit Versailles , considered the quintessential royal residence in Europe. It began life as a hunting lodge in the 17th century but was later transformed by Louis XIV into the largest palace in Europe, capable of housing 20,000 people . The Treaty of Versailles, which brought World War I to an end, was ratified in its famous Hall of Mirrors.

Look out the window in the hall for a view of the palace’s incredible formal gardens and then take a walk through them. Almost 2,000 acres in size, they took 40 years to complete.

Paris – Dijon: A Relaxing European Trip 

Train: 1h 35m  ($35-100)  |  Bus: 3h 55m  ($21-70) *Note: buses leave Paris in the evening and arrive in Dijon after midnight*

Dijon, the capital of Burgundy, is so famous for its food and wine that Parisians make day trips by rail there  on the super-fast TGV just for lunch. Join them, but also wander about the old city and admire its beautiful architecture.

Visit the Palais des Ducs , where the Dukes of Burgundy (responsible for all those beautiful buildings) once held court. Today it’s home to great art treasures, as is the well-regarded Musée des Beaux-Arts and several other excellent museums scattered about the city.

Also visit the merchants’ quarter in the old town where medieval half-timbered houses still line the street. And, of course, buy some mustard to take home.

Rome – Bologna: Some of the Best Food in Italy

Train: 2h 3m  ($24-95)  |  Bus: 4h 36m  ($15-50)

If you enjoy good food, really good food, this European train trip will be over-the-top for you.

Bologna is a legendary city well known for fantastic, delicious, glorious Bolognese food. It’s the reason that in Italy, the city is known as La Grassa or “The Fat One.” It’s also the reason it’s one of the  top places to visit in Italy .

Visit the old Quadrilatero market area adjacent to the Piazza Maggiore by the basilica. Quadrilatero is the only place in the city where everything of high quality is brought together in one spot. The number and variety of foodstuffs all around are nearly overwhelming.

Stop in the 100-year-old food shop Paolo Atti & Figli on Via Caprarie before continuing to A. F. Tamburini. Founded in 1932, it also is one of the city’s most famous food stores . Best yet, in the rear, there’s a small cafeteria with many tables for patrons to sit and eat. The food is  delizioso !

Rome – Naples: Birthplace of Pizza

Train: 1h 8m  ($15-70)  |  Bus: 2h 35m  ($10-35)

Many travelers who visit Naples only stay for a short time since they’re often en route to the Amalfi Coast , the islands of Capri and Ischia, or Pompeii. Naples isn’t a popular destination for travelers in Italy since it’s somewhat chaotic and dirty, and its massive garbage and crime problems are world-renown. Still, though, it retains a charm for some. The old center of the city is crowded with churches, monasteries, and convents. In the center, you’ll also find the Museo Archeologico Nazionale, a world-renowned archeological museum.

The capital of Campania, the city, provides an excellent introduction to southern Italian cooking,  including its famous pizzas.

Rome – Florence: An Easy European Day Trip You’ll Love

Train: 1h 36m  ($18-80)  |  Bus: 3h 45m  ($24-35)

If you’re short on time and want to make a quick day-train trip outside of Rome, this is your place.  One of the great cultural capitals of the world, Florence remains a monument to the Renaissance . The city is home to innumerable cultural treasures that you’ll find in numerous world-famous museums and galleries. This is a great European day trip by rail.

Seek out Michelangelo’s David, the beautiful Duomo, and its Baptistry, Santa Croce, the Ponte Vecchio, the Uffizi, the Piazza Della Signoria…the list is near-endless.

As the capital of Tuscany, it’s also renowned for its food and wine . One needs to spend days or weeks in Florence to get a taste of the city’s gastronomic and cultural banquets. But it’s well worth taking a bite of it in a day.

Salzburg – Hallstatt: The Prettiest Lakeside Village

Train: 3h 13m  ($25-54)  |  Bus : 3 h 2m  ($23-35) 

While this is a relatively long trip either by train (the time includes a one-hour transfer) or bus, if you’re in a rush you can make this trip by car in about one hour. Either way  y ou’ll be rewarded with the sight of Hallstatt, which is often called “the prettiest lakeside village in Austria.” (And to tell you the truth, that may be an understatement.)

If you arrive on this European trip by train at the tiny station, you board a ferry that takes you across the lake to the town. It’s best if you can stay overnight and enjoy the village after all the other day-trippers have left.

The trip to Hallstatt takes you through the Salzkammergut, the stunning Lake District in western Austria. It’s the region best known to Americans for its meadows and mountains in the opening scenes of the “Sound of Music.” It’s an easy town through which to amble, with plenty of little cafés sprinkled about.

Trieste, Italy – Ljubljana, Slovenia: Wonderful Art Nouveau

Train: 2h 37m  ($10-18)  |  Bus: 1h 25m  ($6-15)

Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, is a beautiful and affordable city that’s too often missed by travelers. What you can’t miss here is some of the most beautiful Art Noveau and Baroque architecture you’ll find anywhere.  It’s one of the most beautiful and charismatic cities in southeastern Europe.

It’s a fascinating place with a fairytale castle looming up on a hillside right in the middle of the beautiful Old-World city. In its Old Town, you’ll discover old churches, intriguing little shops and markets, and little-cobbled streets worthy of its Old-World character.

In its New Town, you’ll find the Modern Gallery and the National Gallery . Prešeren Square on the river is a perfect place to start exploring both sides of the river.

Vienna – Budapest: A Great Old-World City for a European Trip

Train: 2h 31m  ($12-15)  |  bus: 3h 5m  ($22-35).

You’ll find plenty to do in Budapest since it’s a unique and charming Old World city . In fact, it’s the most stunning on the Danube. It’s a beautiful place shaped by a history that offers travelers a multitude of great experiences. 

Walk along its avenues, and you’re surrounded by turn-of-the-century architecture, cozy cafés tucked away on cobbled streets, and excellent music and art. Certainly visit the beautiful and historical Mátyás Church and the adjacent Neo-Romanesque Fishermen’s Bastion, one of the most popular places in the city. 

Take a taxi to Heroes’ Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home of the Museum of Fine Arts . Then walk back down Andrassy Street towards the Danube, passing the Opera House and the St. Stephen Basilica.

When you reach the river, turn right and walk a few hundred yards to the Shoes on the Danube Bank memorial. It’s incredibly simple and incredibly moving.

Vienna – Salzburg, More of the Sound of Music

Train: 2h 30m  ($12-20)  |  Bus: 3h 40m  ($20-40)

Many of the things to do in Salzburg, Austria, connect to the Sound of Music because the city and the movie are forever entwined. In fact, in Salzburg today, the only sound you hear more than “Do-Re-Mi” is  ka-ching, ka-ching .

Salzburg is a storybook city with domes and spires set below an imposing fortress. It’s surrounded by a backdrop of mountains, a scene you never tire of.  There’s also enough art, incredible Baroque and modern architecture, wonderful food, and great festivals to make your head spin. Everywhere you look, the city oozes charm and beauty. If you visit on your European trip, head first for the Altstadt, the city’s Old Town and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where horses clip-clop through the streets pulling their carriages to Residenz Platz, the most famous plaza in the city.

Go to Getrapidegasse, a picturesque street with tall narrow houses and plenty of shops and shoppers . There you’ll find the home that was Mozart’s birthplace. Delve into the maze of streets about his birthplace, and you’ll find these courtyards now brim with little cafés and shops. Keep wandering and then go up to the castle for a great view of the city.

September 23, 2021 at 4:37 pm

You do a wonderful job with your newsletter. I hope to get to Italy in 2022 and appreciate all the information that you share. Mary

September 24, 2021 at 8:31 am

Thank you Mary for the compliment. I’ll also be going back to Italy next year. Maybe I’ll see you there! Jim

November 1, 2023 at 11:31 am

Jim: I did make it to Italy in 2022 for three wonderful weeks and used many of your suggestions. Hoping to get back in the not-too-distant-future. Keep up the good work!

November 11, 2023 at 7:22 am

Mary, I’m glad you ere able to get to Italy and had a wonderful time. I’m glad I as able to help, even if just a little. Thank you for the compliments. Jim

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13 Super Charming European Cities Well Worth a Day Trip

Go ahead. Get out and explore more.

You'd have to have a heart of stone not to be moved by the little streets of Paris , the palaces of Vienna , or the twisting canals of Venice . After all, there's a reason these iconic cities are as timeless and as popular as they are. But Europe is more than just these well-known destinations. In fact, some of Europe's most beautiful and exciting cities are often also some of the continent's smallest or most unassuming.

"Europe is such a great place to visit to enjoy the varying cultures, food, and history," Sofia Markovich, a Travel + Leisure A-List travel advisor specializing in European travel, tells T+L. "It is easy to get around Europe, but the key to taking advantage of the diversity is to pick a region and travel throughout that area." As Markovich suggests, it's a good idea to plot out your stay by region — think Western, Eastern, or Southern Europe. Markovich says this will "allow a traveler an opportunity to visit several countries on one trip," or at the very least, experience some of the continent's best cities in one go. To maximize your next European vacation's day trip potential, Markovich also suggests narrowing down your home base to a major city where public transportation is a mainstay. "Choosing larger cities as a hub provides the most flexibility and easy access to surrounding areas," she says. "For example, Munich is a great spot to stay in order to have easy access to Austria in addition to many must-see areas of Bavaria. Staying in a large hub opens the opportunity for many out-of-town tours and easy transportation options without having to spend countless hours traveling back and forth."

Indeed, Europe is incredibly easy to get around thanks to its various modes of transport, from bus to ferry, and of course, by hopping aboard its famed trains, which whizz you from one glamorous city to the next in mere hours. For example, while visiting London, visitors can make their way to the medieval city of Bruges via a three-hour ride with Eurostar. Similarly, Poland's Szczecin is a beloved waterfront city that's just a quick, two-hour train trip from Berlin. Bratislava, the charming capital of Slovakia, isn't as popular a destination as Vienna, but it's an easy day trip from the famous Austrian metropolis (only an hour away by train) and is a perfect home base for wine-tasting expeditions in the surrounding countryside.

All of the European detours listed here are easy, convenient trips, with no private drivers or even car rentals necessary. But, perhaps more importantly, all of the cities included — few of which get the attention they deserve — offer intrepid travelers the chance to have a unique, under-the-radar European experience. Below, find 13 spectacular European second cities that are absolutely worth the day trip during your stay.

Munich to Salzburg, Austria

Perhaps most famous for being the birthplace of Mozart (as well as the setting for "The Sound of Music"), Salzburg lies just on the border with Germany. A fully preserved embodiment of Baroque architecture, few modern buildings have been allowed a place in the inner city, meaning today it looks almost identical to how it did 400 years ago.

The Route: The Munich-to-Salzburg route is a quick cross-border train journey : prices begin at $27 each way, and it'll take you just under two hours to arrive. If you opt for the bus (go for ​Flixbus ) it’ll cost $13 each way with a journey time of two hours.

Where to Stay: If you're in Salzburg, you want historical luxury, and if you want historical luxury, you want ​Hotel Schloss Leopoldskron . The hotel, which served as the filming location for the von Trapp family residence in "The Sound of Music," is set inside a stunning 18th-century palace with a beautiful interior and remarkable surroundings.

Where to Eat: It's no palace, sure, but ​S'Kloane Brauhaus serves classic, rustic Austrian cuisine (think wiener schnitzel and venison stew) and home-brewed beer in a warm, traditionally decorated environment.

What to Do: Take a ​ "Sound of Music" tour , or visit the ​birthplace of Mozart , which is now a museum. Or just head down to the Alter Market and dedicate your day to eating as much Austrian street food as you can.

Berlin to Szczecin, Poland

As the country's seventh-largest city, Szczecin often finds itself in the shadow of some of Poland's more popular destinations, such as Warsaw or Kraków. Nonetheless, this port city (located just on the Poland-Germany border) is as well loved by German tourists as it is by locals, chiefly for its gorgeous riverfront and locally made beer and vodka.

The Route: Luckily, Szczecin is as easy to get to as it is hard to spell. You can catch a bus from Berlin's central bus station to central Szczecin for about $17 one way, and you'll arrive in just over two hours.

Where to Stay: The Park Hotel is a little slice of luxury situated right in the middle of Szczecin's Old Town, only a short distance away from pretty much everything in the city worth seeing — including that aforementioned riverfront.

Where to Eat: You won't have to go far for this one: the Park Hotel's restaurant is one of the highest-rated in the city and offers up a range of Polish and international dishes.

What to Do: The Szczecin Philharmonic hosts a number of events throughout the year, and the striking building itself is a wonderful example of Poland's architectural eccentricity.

Paris to Luxembourg City, Luxembourg

One of Europe's smallest capital cities (in one of Europe's smallest countries), Luxembourg City is known as the "Gibraltar of the North" for its vast series of medieval fortifications.

The Route: The high-speed train will get you there from Paris in just two hours, with one-way fares starting at $34.

Where to Stay: Effortlessly stylish yet also undeniably cozy, the Hotel Parc Beaux Arts is made up of rooms that feel like they've been lifted straight out of a charming, local cottage and is located near the Palais Grand Ducal in Luxembourg's historical city center.

Where to Eat: Take advantage of the country's unique gastronomic culture with traditional Luxembourgian fare (think beer-braised pig's trotters and sauerkraut) at Mousel's Cantine — and don't forget to try the local beer.

What to Do: The Bock casemates are a series of tunnels, running beneath the ruins of the old city fortifications, that leads out to large, cliff-side openings that offer not only some of the best panoramic views in Luxembourg but also a fascinating look into the city's history.

Venice to Pula, Croatia

An ancient city full of Roman ruins, Pula is still flourishing thanks to the same industries that put it on the map over 2,000 years ago: winemaking, fishing and leisure.

The Route: Many ferries to Pula are seasonal, and only run from April to October. (Note: You can find the odd ferry over the winter, but they are very few and far between, so don't count on being able to find a ride.) During those months, Venezia Ferries or Adriatic Lines will take you across the Adriatic in just over three hours, at $170 round-trip.

Where to Stay: Scaletta provides a touch of fun to a stay at Pula. Its colorful rooms and central location make it a perfect place to rest during your quick stay.

Where to Eat: The charming Restaurant Oaza serves up locally sourced seafood (a specialty in Pula) and traditional Croatian dishes.

What to Do: History buffs, take note: the city's many Roman ruins are a must-visit, especially the massive Pula Arena, Temple of Augustus, and Triumphal Arch. Visitors should also head down to the waterfront paths that lead out of town to try to find some of the many dinosaur footprints that are still preserved in the rocks today.

London to Bruges, Belgium

Alisha McDarris/Travel + Leisure

Bruges is a classic medieval city, which comes lined with twisting cobblestone streets, crisscrossed by canals, and towered over by the iconic Belfry of Bruges. One of Europe's prettiest secrets, the city is the perfect short getaway from the hustle and bustle of London.

The Route: The 3.5-hour Eurostar trip starts at about $140 for a one-way ticket. You’ll need to change trains in Brussels.

Where to Stay: Don't be put off by the strange name — the very reasonably priced Hotel Bla Bla in the city center is one of the coolest, friendliest hotels in Bruges.

Where to Eat: Check out Soup , a small restaurant near Bruges' Market Square that serves beer, panini, and, of course, soup. Cap off the day with a Belgian waffle at the nearby Chez Albert .

What to Do: Climb the Belfry, of course. It's the city's most famous sight, and the views from the top are nothing short of breathtaking.

Zurich to Vaduz, Liechtenstein

Liechtenstein, with its bizarre history, powerful monarchy, and tiny population, might be one of the most intriguing countries in Europe, and its Lilliputian capital city (population: 5,700) is an underrated gem for alpine travelers.

The Route: Getting from Zurich to Vaduz takes about 90 minutes. You'll need to catch a train from Zurich Hauptbahnhof to Sargans, just on the border. From there, it’s a short bus ride to Vaduz. Expect to pay around $30-$40 for the whole trip.

Where to Stay: Liechtenstein is one of the few countries left in the world that still takes its monarchy very seriously, so you might as well live like royalty yourself while visiting. And the 29 beautifully appointed rooms and suites at the luxurious, bucolic Parkhotel Sonnenhof are certainly fit for a king.

Where to Eat: You won’t have a better meal in Vaduz than at the Parkhotel Sonnehof's elegant, Michelin-starred Restaurant Marée .

What to Do: Hike out of town and take in the mountain views on the Grüschaweg Trail , or stop in on the personal cellars of the Prince of Liechtenstein for a wine and whiskey tasting .

Bern, Switzerland to Lausanne, Switzerland

Set on the shores of Lake Geneva, Lausanne is one of Switzerland's most scenic cities. The surrounding Vaud region is famous for its wines, cuisine, and stunning natural beauty, and, as the largest French-speaking region in Switzerland, provides a French-Swiss cultural experience that nicely complements a visit to the more Germanic-leaning city of Bern.

The Route: Trains run from the center of Bern straight into Lausanne for around $20 each way, and the journey takes about an hour.

Where to Stay: The Hôtel du Port is located in Lausanne's vibrant marina and has rooms overlooking Lake Geneva.

Where to Eat: Two Michelin stars, a legendary French chef, and some of the finest lake views in town: Anne-Sophie Pic au Beau-Rivage Palace is where you want to be.

What to Do: Board La Suisse , an authentic turn-of-the-century paddle steamer, for lunch and a tour of the lake.

Vienna to Bratislava, Slovakia

The wonderful thing about Vienna is just how close it is to so many of Europe's best cities — Prague, Budapest, and Munich being just a few — but Bratislava might well be Vienna's most exciting and convenient neighbor. The capital of Slovakia, Bratislava is the cultural heart of one of the world's most underrated countries.

The Route: You can get to Bratislava from Vienna in an hour on the train. The cost? A whopping $12.

Where to Stay: The Hotel Michalská Brána , in the city's historic center, has an inconspicuous, traditional exterior, but is thoroughly modern on the inside. The city's most popular bars and clubs are only seconds away, as is the magnificent Bratislava Castle.

Where to Eat: Modra Hviezda does atmospheric Central European dining at a surprisingly low cost and is frequently ranked as one of the best restaurants in the city. Make sure to try something off of their list of traditional Slovak specialties.

What to Do: It's worth heading out of the city to take a tour of the surrounding vineyards and wineries. (Slovakia, ever the underdog, has a tremendously underrated winemaking industry). And if wine isn't your thing, the Slovaks aren't exactly strangers to beer-making either.

Bilbao, Spain to Biarritz, France

Don't let the Pyrenees get in your way. Travelers staying near the Spanish-French border should take the chance to hop over to the country next door. Biarritz, on the Bay of Biscay, is a French surfing town marked by thriving nightlife and the sort of glitz and glamour you'd normally be hard-pressed to find outside of the French Riviera.

The Route: Local bus companies will sell you a ticket from Bilbao, Spain for anywhere between $9-$20 each way. The trip should take just under three hours.

Where to Stay: You're never going to want to be too far away from the seaside while you're in Biarritz, so book a room at the Hotel l'Ocean, which offers affordable luxury in the city center, only seconds away from the beach.

Where to Eat: Treat yourself to a fantastic post-surf meal at Bistro Toqué Anglet , which offers a seafood-forward menu and lighter fare.

What to Do: Surf, of course. Biarritz is as good a surfing spot as anywhere else in France or Spain, and the city has a prominent surf culture. If you're a rookie, don't panic — the École de Surf Hastea offers lessons and camps throughout the year for surfers at any level.

Amsterdam to Ghent, Belgium

Ghent is obscure enough to enjoy a relaxed, relatively quiet atmosphere, but also entertaining enough — thanks largely to its university and thriving student scene — to keep any errant partiers from Amsterdam happy.

The Route: Traveling via train will take only slightly over three hours and costs about $50-$100 each way. Buses also run to Ghent at around $15-$40 for a single ticket, and the journey will take 2.5 hours.

Where to Stay: Spend a night or two in the Boatel , a floating hotel in a converted riverboat.

Where to Eat: The Belgians do few things better than steak and frites, and Gillis probably does it best of all.

What to Do: If you're taking a break from the mile-a-minute Amsterdam nightlife, check out the Museum of Fine Arts to soak up a bit of medieval, Renaissance, and modern culture. Otherwise, head down to Korenmarkt for some of Ghent's more central bars and pubs, or out towards Blandijnberg for the city's student nightlife.

Helsinki, Finland to Tallinn, Estonia

Christopher Larson/Travel + Leisure

Tallinn, Estonia's capital, lies on the southern shores of the Gulf of Finland. Although less well known than its northern counterparts, Tallinn is often regarded as one of the most cultured, developed, and technologically advanced cities in Europe. Perhaps not the best destination if you're trying to get away from Finland’s biting cold, Tallinn is certainly a must-visit for lovers of the northern reaches of the continent.

The Route: Getting there from Helsinki will require a short trip on a ferry; the ​Viking Line or Eckerö Lines tend to have the cheapest tickets (from $20-$30 one-way), and the crossing will take about two hours.

Where to Stay: Set in an elegant, Soviet-era building, ​ My City Hotel is one of Tallinn's higher-end establishments, but its sumptuous interior and unrivaled location in the city's Old Town will more than justify the slightly higher price tag.

Where to Eat: ​ Kohvik Moon is only a short distance from the Old Town and serves high-end, modern Russian cuisine at incredibly affordable prices.

What to Do: Tallinn has a long history of producing alcoholic beverages — from beers and vodka to classic Estonian liqueurs. Explore the city’s spirited traditions during a private ​tasting tour .

Tangier, Morocco to Tarifa, Spain

Okay, so Tangier isn't quite Europe, but it's rather close — and how often do you get to go on a quick jaunt over to the continent next door? Tarifa, in the province of Cádiz, near the Strait of Gibraltar, lays claim to some of Spain's prettiest beaches and is one of the best spots for wind sports in the country.

The Route: You'll need to get the ferry across, of course. ​ ​FRS runs a few sailings a day from Tangier Ville to Tarifa. The crossing takes an hour and will set you back around $80 for a round-trip.

Where to Stay: ​Koala Tarifa is a guesthouse located in the city’s historic center that offers five apartments in a 300-year-old, perfectly preserved building.

Where to Eat: Travelers and locals go to ​ ​Vaca Loca , a small, friendly, and typically Spanish restaurant known for serving steak and grilled meats in a beautiful, traditional setting.

What to Do: Try out kitesurfing (or other wind sports) down at the beach. ​ ​KitePassion Tarifa offers private lessons for $65 per hour.

Lisbon to Cáceres, Spain

Cáceres is a mish-mash of cultures: the city was founded by the Romans, yet it’s dotted with medieval streets and Renaissance palaces and surrounded by Moorish city walls. The Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the whole town itself is not only foodie heaven — it was named the 2015 gastronomy capital of Spain by the Spanish Hospitality Federation — but is also just far enough out of the way to remain relatively tourist-free.

The Route: Since the rail route was shut down, getting to Cáceres from Lisbon takes a while — the bus journey is a five-hour trip. Nonetheless, it'll cost around $30 with ​GoEuro and will take you through some of the most stunning countryside in Iberia.

Where to Stay: The ​ ​Hotel Parador , which is part of that UNESCO Heritage Old Town, feels more like a palace than a hotel, which probably comes from the fact that it actually is one.

Where to Eat: Cuisine is what Cáceres does best, and ​ ​Restaurant Javier Martin offers up a sterling tasting menu from one of the freshest and most exciting new chefs in town.

What to Do: Take a walk around the Old Town. In addition to being unspeakably beautiful, the area is home to market stalls and boutique shops selling all the sweets, wines, liqueurs, and street food a traveler could ever want.

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10 Perfect Day Trips From London To Europe

Day trips to europe from london (or overnight stays).

Living in London or the surrounding counties? Fancy a day trip abroad to brighten up your week? We’ve put together a shortlist of perfect day trips from London to Europe, suggested by savvy travellers who describe the delights of their favourite destinations, what to do and see, and how to get there and back without wasting any time.

Although we’re focusing on days out from London, you’ll love staying in these places a little longer too – ideal for weekend trips from London to Europe , the majority are also accessible from anywhere in Britain by plane.

24 hours in Alicante (Spain)

You’ll have 24 hours of non-stop fun discovering this lively Mediterranean City, a sun-lapped day on the beach and a delicious evening of wining and dining by the sea makes Alicante the perfect day trip from London.

Planes leave London’s main airports around-the-clock for Alicante on the Costa Blanca, one of the world’s top holiday spots. Look out for a low-cost flight that leaves early and returns really late to make the most of your day – in summertime especially, you can party or chill on a terrace all night and come back home in the morning (current Covid restrictions permitting)!

Board the hourly airport bus straight into the city (or get a taxi), it’s only 10 minutes! Have breakfast on the seafront Esplanade – typically start your day with a thick hot chocolate drink with dunking ‘churros’ (long twisted donutty pastries) or a freshly squeezed orange juice, coffee and croissants.

Walk along the palm-lined promenade to the city’s main beach, Playa Postiguet for a morning lazing under a sun umbrella on the sands and a dip in the warm, habitually calm Mediterranean Sea.

Alternatively, take the TRAM to San Juan Beach just around Alicante bay, kilometres of wide sands which never seem to be busy – there’s lots of space for beach games, loads of traditional restaurants and ‘chiringuito’ beach bars open until really late.

Amble into Alicante ‘old town’ for lunch, a maze of mainly pedestrianized side streets and shady avenues where you can get ‘tapas’ to eat with a glass of local wine, cool lager or sparkling cava – the choice of tasty Spanish aperitifs is infinite. Or you could try a ‘plate of the day’ in a gastro bar mixing authentic recipes with fusion cuisine. Sit outside in a tree-lined square or if you prefer, enjoy a seafood platter or saffron paella at one of the beach-front cafeterias.

Spend the afternoon back at the beach, unless you fancy delving into Alicante’s history with a visit to Santa Barbara Castle, the Medieval Basilica or Alicante Archaeological Museum, for example. For dinner, it’s a personal choice and really depends on what (and how much!) you had for lunch. To recap, traditional Spanish or gastro cuisine, fish and seafood, paella and similar rice dishes, freshly picked Mediterranean vegetables and fruits, as well as international food.

A stroll along the leisure harbour past the fancy yachts brings you to the nightlife zone. Cocktails bars and terraces bordering the waters, Costa Blanca Casino, beach clubs with chillouts and infinity pools. Sip something cool under the starlight and relax to the sound of the sea. Dust the sand from your toes, rinse the salt water from your hair, dab on the deo, change into your travel clothes, and board your plane back to London after an exciting day in Alicante!

How to get to Alicante from London By plane : There are several direct flights to Alicante every day from London heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted and Luton, as well as from other major and regional airports in the UK. Flight time from London to Alicante is approxi,ately 2 hours 30 minutes.

If you are looking for perpetual sunshine head over to the Spanish Canary Islands, a four-and-a-half-hour flight and the perfect place for a weekend trip from London to Europe or a longer holiday.

A day trip to Cardiff (Wales)

Cardiff is an easy and ideal day trip from London and you get to visit a new country within the UK (no passports or vaccination visas needed)! There’s lots to do in Cardiff , while small, the city is packed with historical landmarks and beautiful places to see both in the historic centre and on the outskirts. If you’re going to Cardiff on a day trip from London, the first thing to do is to get yourself some warm, homemade Welsh cakes for breakfast from Cardiff Market in the city centre.

While at the market, get local produce for a picnic which you can enjoy in one of the city’s many green parks, such as Bute Park or Roath Park Lake (where you can also hire kayaks and take a picture with the large white lighthouse). Be sure to get a pint in one of the local pubs and even try some of the Welsh-speaking-only pubs if you’re brave enough!

For a historical activity, visit Cardiff Castle right in the centre of town and the stone animals that line the walls adjacent to the castle. For a more beautiful castle, head 20 minutes outside of Cardiff (and on the way back to London) to Castell Coch which will make you feel like you’re in a fairytale, and explore the surrounding woodlands called Fforest Fawr.

When you’re ready to head back to London, go and get some more of those lush Welsh cakes for the way home!

How to Get to Cardiff from London The fastest way to get to Cardiff from London is by train. By rail: Direct train from London Paddington to Cardiff Central Station which takes 1h 50 min. By car: Take the M4 which runs from London to Cardiff and is a straightforward drive taking about 3 hours (150 miles); By bus : National Express from Victoria Coach station to Cardiff Coach Station, or the Megabus which takes 3h 45 min.

Suggested by Shireen Ahmed from The Happy Days Travel s

Catch a plane to Guernsey (Channel Islands)

The nearby island of Guernsey makes for an easy and unique day trip from London. One of the legendary Channel Islands, it’s perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the big city. With plenty of rural sights in the middle of the island and stunning vistas along the coastal paths, Saint Peter Port is the place to see if you’re only visiting for the day.

Guernsey’s quaint capital is a pretty seaside town with beautiful views and a fascinating maritime history, it’s the perfect place to relax and soak up some culture. The narrow passageways of the old town hide listed buildings from Elizabethan and Victorian times, the ancient parish church (1250), stone towers and turrets. The steep cobbled streets are made for strolling and window shopping, sprinkled with amazing bakeries and fun souvenir stores. 

Castle Cornet overlooks the entrance to St. Peter’s Port, a large fortress built right on the coast in the 1800’s to defend the city, just walk along the breakwater to get there. The castle offers various tours and activities for history seekers. The waterfront restaurants are the perfect way to experience what Guernsey has to offer in a short amount of time. Enjoy fresh seafood and other specialties, sample some local wine, and enjoy the gorgeous views of the marina and Castle Cornet. It’s so peaceful and beautiful, you might not want to come away!

Visiting the Channel Islands for more than a day? Then combine your trip to Guernsey with a holiday in Jersey .

How to get to Guernsey from London By plane : Travel to Guernsey by plane from London Gatwick Airport (LGW) – the flight time is approximately 1 hour. If in central London, get the Gatwick Express train from Victoria Station to the airport (30 minute ride). Guernsey Airport (GCI) is very small, so once you arrive it doesn’t take much time to collect your bags and head out to catch a taxi St. Peter Port which is only 10 minutes away. Leaving London early in the morning and returning in the evening gives ample time to escape to this hidden gem of an island.

Suggested by Olivia from the Girl With Blue Sails

One day in Paris (France)

When you are looking for ideas to take a day trip from London, leaving the country is probably not your first intention. But did you know that Paris is only a short 2-hour train ride away from London, St Pancras. Thanks to the Eurostar train, you are in France’s capital in no time and, because the train station is conveniently located, you can start your one day in Paris sightseeing programme right away. 

Closest to your arrival point lays the beautiful Montmartre artists’ quarter, a hill in the north of Paris with the famous Sacre Coeur cathedral on top of it. Isn’t enjoying the view over Paris a great way to start your daytrip from London? Montmartre is also a great place to take a late breakfast. It’s packed with cute cafés and bakeries, and perfect for trying a fresh French croissant and a café au lait!

Now head straight to Châtelet, the heart of Paris! From here you have some of the most iconic quarters within walking distance: the Marais, the Latin Quarter, Saint Germain, as well as the beautiful Notre Dame Cathedral and Pont-Neuf. Due to the fire incident in 2018, it is unfortunately still not possible to visit Notre Dame, but the cathedral is nevertheless still a nice photo stop.

The centre of Paris is also a good spot to find a place to sit down and enjoy lunch. However, try to avoid the cheap eateries around Saint Michel, it’s very touristic and the quality is not as good as it should be. If you want to save time, you also can have lunch the Parisian way: grab a jambon/beurre from the nearest bakery – a half baguette with ham and butter. 

After a nice walk through Paris’ historic quarter, board a river cruise boat and take a tour on the River Seine. The panoramic cruises are a great occasion to see Paris from a different perspective and you will have the best Eiffel Tower views ! 

If you have a bit of time left after this exciting day, you can cross the Seine to see the Pyramid of the Louvre light up at dusk. It’s just a short walk from Pont-Neuf and you can check another Paris highlight off your bucket list. To see the museum inside you’ll need another day at least, so consider staying overnight or longer to see the many wonders of Paris.

How to get to Paris from London The easiest and cheapest way to get from London to Paris is by train (taking into account travel connections to the city centres); By rail: Get the Eurostar Train from London St Pancras to Paris which takes 2 hours 15 minutes; By Plane: Flights depart London Heathrow to Paris Charles de Gaulle or from London Heathrow, Gatwick and Stansted to Paris Orly. Flight time 1 hour 10 minutes.

Suggested by Lena from Salut From Paris

A shopping spree in Lille (France)

Lille is a wonderful French city with a variety of cultural sights, as well as some great shops! If you arrive by train, you’ll see the Euralille commercial centre right next door to the station, so you can start your shopping spree right away. However, I much prefer the little stores in the centre of Lille, so you might want to start there first.

The Old Town is truly pretty, with gorgeous architecture like the Grand Place, the Town Hall with its majestic belfry and the Old Stock Exchange. You can also visit Charles de Gaulle’s birthplace if you’re so inclined.

One of my favourite things to do in Lille, however, is stuff my face with all kinds of delicacies. I love visiting anything from farmer’s markets to really fancy locations like the Meert shop (they sell the most amazing waffles!).

If you happen to visit during the holiday season, it’s good to come prepared with plenty of extra luggage space as Lille has one of the best Christmas markets in Europe .

The city is magical at this time of the year and besides seasonal markets, Lille’s shops will lure you in starting with their awesomely decorated windows and chic merchandise. But honestly, Lille makes for a great trip any time of the year. So enjoy!

How to get to Lille from London By rail : The easy and quickest way to get from London to Lille is by train. Eurostar takes you from the centre of London to the centre of Lille in under 1 hour and a half. Just keep in mind that you’ll need 30 minutes to clear customs and security before you get on board, so make sure you arrive at St Pancras International train station with plenty of time in advance. Also, keep in mind that your Eurostar ticket grants you 2 x 1 access to Lille’s top museums and galleries.

Suggested by Laura from Travelers Universe

Visit Brussels for a day (Belgium)

A day trip from London to Brussels is the perfect opportunity to explore the land of chocolate, beer, and waffles! Upon arriving in Brussels, begin your morning at the opulent Grand Place. The Grand Place, or Grote Markt, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that is said to be one of the most spectacular squares in all of Europe. Several important buildings grace this lovely square including the Town Hall and the King’s House (now home to the Brussels City Museum).

From the Grand Place, head to the nearby Maison Dandoy to sample some of the best Belgian waffles in the city. Grab a waffle to go and enjoy it while soaking in the gorgeous views of the main square. Next, take the metro to one of the most famous landmarks in Brussels: the Atomium. You can purchase tickets to go inside the structure, or you can marvel at it from the lounge chairs in the surrounding park. After visiting the Atomium, head over to the European Union Administrative Centre for a walk around the area. Be sure to check out the Triumphal Arch, which is located just a short distance away. This monumental triple arch serves as the gateway into a sprawling urban park that also features a number of museums worth visiting at its east end. End your day by admiring the Royal Palace before making your descent to the Mont Des Arts Gardens. This elevated urban park offers the most beautiful view of Brussels and is extra magical to see during sunset! Ideally, stayover for a couple of nights and do a day trip from Brussels to Bruges – it only takes an hour by train.

How to get to Brussels from London By rail: The heart of Brussels can be easily reached from London via a 2 hour 15 minute train ride on the Eurostar, this is the easiest option if you are going for a day trip; By plane : Direct flights from London Heathrow to Brussels with a flight time of 1 hour 10 minutes.

Suggested by Olivia from Inspired by Croatia

A day out in Antwerp (Belgium)

Antwerp is the perfect day trip from London if you love history, beautiful shops, and great food. The capital of fashion is well-known for its famous fashion designers, Belgian beers, diamonds, and beautiful architecture.

When arriving in Antwerp central  by train, you will immediately fall in love with the memorizing building. Antwerp has the most beautiful train station in Europe, so don’t rush out of the station to go out and explore, take the time to walk around and absorb the architectural beauty.

Antwerp is a relatively small city and can easily be discovered on foot. Make sure to visit the ‘Oude Markt’ where you will find the beautiful 450 year old city hall. During summer many restaurants and bars will have terraces, where you can enjoy a drink in one of the most beautiful squares in town. The MAS museum is situated only 10 minutes from the Oude Markt and is definitely worth a visit.

Enjoy a beautiful stroll beside the city river Scheldt to get there. In the Museum you will find encounters and exchanges between people from all over the world for several centuries. Take the escalator to the 10th floor and enjoy the best view over the town. Don’t forget to buy one of the world’s most famous Belgian chocolates as a souvenir! Neuhaus is one of the best chocolates you simply need to buy!

How to get to Antwerp from London By rail : It takes 2.5 hours to get from St Pancras International London to Antwerp, you can book a ticket with Eurostar Trains. There is free WIFI access, and you can buy snacks, meals or drinks in the onboard Café Metropole. The Eurostar train will get you to Brussels-Midi/Zuid, from there you can take the next train to Antwerp with no additional costs.

Suggested by Stéphanie from Bey Of Travel

A walk through medieval Bruges (Belgium)

If you’re looking to visit somewhere in Europe for the day from London, there aren’t many better places than Bruges. This city in Belgium is an ideal place to visit if you want to get away from the big smoke for the day. Bruges isn’t the biggest city in the world, but there’s plenty to do there.

If you’ve seen the film In Bruges, you’ll be familiar with the city. It’s medieval in nature, with a variety of interesting spots to check out. The main attraction is the Belfry of Bruges which towers above the city. Walking into the city, you can see it from a distance. You can pay a small fee to enter and climb the 366 steps to the top where you’ll be presented with a fantastic view of the city and the surrounding area.

Bruges is built around canals and this is a great way to explore and see the city. Multiple canal tours take place every day and this allows you to see the city from a different perspective as well as learn more about its fascinating past. To learn even more about this past, you should check out the Bruges Historium. Here you’ll learn that Bruges used to be a major trading centre in days gone by, an age the Historium recreates, referring to it as Bruges’ ‘Golden Age.’

You can’t visit Bruges , or Belgium for that matter, without trying some Belgian beer and chocolate. This is easy enough as you have your pick of bars and chocolate stores to choose from. They’re everywhere in Bruges. A beer or two and some chocolate to take home with you is a good memento from the trip.

How to get to Bruges from London By plane : You can either fly from Gatwick, Stansted or London City airport which takes around 50 minutes; By rail : Via the Eurostar train which takes just over 3 hours; By car : You can drive via the Eurotunnel. You’ll have to drive from London to Folkestone and then from Calais to Bruges, but this takes about 5 hours one way depending on traffic.

Suggested by Tom Stevenson from The Travelling Tom

Fly over to Amsterdam for the day

Amsterdam is known worldwide as a lively city full of culture and history, and since it is only a short hop over the pond from London, it makes for a great destination for a day trip! When you visit Amsterdam, use this Amsterdam bucket list to guide you to the best sights and activities in the city.

Nicknamed ‘ Venice of the North’, your first stop in Amsterdam should be the canals. The best way to get to know the canals is literally on them. Rent a boat for a few hours and navigate the maze of canals to the Singel, Herengracht, Spiegelgracht and the Amstel River.

Then go for a stroll through De Wallen, Amsterdams ‘Red Light District’. You might instantly associate this district with prostitution, but during the day it is actually a very charming and lively neighbourhood full of little bars and boutique shops.

You can’t visit Amsterdam without having visited at least one museum. Luckily it doesn’t really matter what kind of museums you’re into, because Amsterdam has them all. For masterpieces from painters like Rembrandt and Vermeer visit the Rijksmuseum, located in one of the city’s most beautiful buildings.

For modern art pieces from current day legends like Banksy, visit the Moco Museum, for some culture and local history visit the Anne Frank House. Visit Madame Tussauds for freakishly lifelike wax statues of celebrities and for something completely different check out the Nemo Science Museum, which is located in a building shaped after captain Nemo’s boat, The Nautilus.

When you feel a bit tuckered out, head to the Vondelpark, Amsterdam’s big city park to relax for a bit, or dive into the city’s food scene and grab something to eat. Opt for something truly Dutch like bitterballen or Dutch Old Amsterdam cheese, or take your pick from one of the world-class restaurants, like Bord’Eau, Blauw, De Kas or Stork.

End the perfext day with a cocktail in one of Amsterdam’s rooftop bars as the city lights up at the golden hour and the sun sets on the horizon.

How to get to Amsterdam from London By plane : The quickest and easiest way to get to Amsterdam is by plane. British Airways and KLM both fly multiple times a day between London Heathrow Airport and Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, and flight time is less than an hour.

Suggested by Tom & Zi from Craving Adventure

A day discovering the beauty of Copenhagen (Denmark)

Not often mentioned as a day trip from London, Copenhagen is the right place within a less than 2 hours flight. To be honest it is also one of the cheapest solutions for an amazing 24 hours away from London.

The Danish capital is beautiful and the city centre completely walkable, which is a plus planning a day trip from London. However, walking distances can be one of the obstacles of spending a single day in Copenhagen . Instead of using efficient public transport, you can explore more in less time.

You should visit Rosenborg Castle, one of the most suggestive palaces in the city. The Danish Royal Family still lives here. If you are lucky enough and arrive at the Palace Courtyard before 10 am, you can see the Change of Guard. It is not as impressive as the one at Buckingham Palace but still very suggestive. Other incredible spots to discover in Copenhagen are the Round Tower, the highest point of the city, the amusement Tivoli Park, and the walk along the Nyhavn.

While exploring Copenhagen you might also visit Amalienborg Palace, another awesome building in the Danish Capital, with a completely different style compared to Rosenborg Palace. Not too far away there is the Little Mermaid, the statue symbol of Copenhagen, which welcomes sailors and boats to Copenhagen Harbour. The statue was inspired by the Danish author Hans Christian Anderson.

As you can see Copenhagen is the ideal city to explore in a day out from London. It doesn’t matter which season you are travelling, Copenhagen can welcome tourists and offer the perfect winter escape, but also a relaxing summer. Also, you can consider Copenhagen just as a day trip before moving on the other side, exploring Malmoe, in Sweden just crossing the beautiful Øresund Bridge.

How to get to Copenhagen from London By plane : Copenhagen has daily connections from London Heathrow Airport and Stansted, and the flight takes just under 2 hours. The ticket is not expensive and purchasing it in advance can make the difference.

Suggested by Alessia & Toti from Italian Trip Abroad

Popular Places to See in England on Day Trips from London

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If you’re planning a few days out in Somerset (UK), there are lots of great places to visit in the historic towns, sandy beaches to laze on, trails to tread along stunning coastline and nature parks.

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It’s easy to see Kent on a day out from London! Discover the heritage of Canterbury, visit castles & country mansions, enjoy the beach & coastal walks, then dine on seafood with a glass of local wine.

Visit the Sights of Wiltshire

On a day trip from London or visiting the south of England for a few days? Put the sights of Wiltshire on your itinerary (there’s so much history to see & lots to do for free)!

The Perfect 2-Day Trip to Cambridge

Cambridge is a picture-perfect county in the south of England. Discover which historical sites to see in the city, what to do while you’re here for 2 days, and where to go for something good to eat!

8 Comments:

I love how close London is to so many beautiful places!! I’ve added Guernsey to my to-visit list!!

I lived in London as a kid and never got bored, we were always going on day trips to interesting places! Didn’t get to the Channel Islands though, so Guernsey is still on my wishlist!

That’s a great list of suggestions!! I would have never thought of Alicante! Thanks for this :-)

We live near Alicante and love it here!

Fantastic article. Love these recommendations!

There are some lovely places to see near London!

Love all of these day trip ideas! I can’t believe how easy it is to reach so many places from London :)

That’s the joy of living in London or the majority of capital cities around the world, there are so many interesting places to visit within easy reach!

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Day trips from London to Europe

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Day trips from London to Europe are easy when you travel by train. A world of possibilities and fun journeys awaits - but how do you get from London to Europe? Well, the answer is Eurostar!

Here's a taste of the day trips you can do in Europe:

• Brussels and beyond
• Disneyland Paris
• French Alps
• South of France

But before we go on, here's a bit of history on the train you'll be taking - the ever-reliable Eurostar.

What is Eurostar?

It’s safe to say Eurostar has revolutionised travel since its inaugural journey back in 1994. Linking London with northern Europe’s most iconic capitals via the Channel Tunnel , these ultra-modern trains from London St Pancras International to Europe whisk passengers off to the continent at speeds of 300km/h (186 mph). In essence, it’s a more civilised, stress-free way to go with spacious carriages and ample luggage allowance, plus of course, a seamless city-to city journey that puts you right in the heart of where you want to be, from lively Amsterdam to Brussels or Paris. Eurostar to Europe shouldn’t be confused with Eurotunnel, which operates car-carrying trains which shuttle vehicles through the tunnel.

If you're looking to bag a bargain Eurostar to Europe fare or splurge on a luxury Paris weekend, we'll show you how to score the best value Eurostar fare. Consider off-peak days and times, and book well in advance to secure a great price.

Aside from the reduced city-to-city journey times, the Eurostar passenger experience also beats flying in many other ways too. There are more relaxed luggage restrictions and streamlined check-in and security screening procedure, and no long waits on arrival at passport control – immigration checks are done before you arrive. Perhaps best of all, there is free Wi-Fi for all throughout the journey, even through the tunnel. You are free to get up and move around at your leisure, as well as perhaps grab a coffee and snack at one of the two bar cars. 

Eurostar Europe fares are very competitive with the airlines in all classes of service. Eurostar has three ticket options - Standard Class which offers promotional fares as low as €35, Standard Premier which also includes a light meal and Business Premier which comes with a gourmet three-course meal, dedicated fast track check-in, full ticket flexibility and access to business lounges. 

Eurostar to Europe

Eurostar operates an airline-style check-in process but without the seemingly endless lines. Luggage stays with you for the entire journey, doing away with the time-consuming wait by the bag carousel on arrival, and security screening is much more streamlined. There's no need to remove your belt or shoes or fret over what liquids you may be carrying. Bags are scanned and you pass through the metal detector – it’s as simple as that. Minimum check-in time is just 30 minutes or as little as 10 minutes for Business Premier ticket holders.

Eurostar day trips

Paris  – The classic London to Europe route. The perennially popular London to Paris service unlocks an elegant metropolis of iconic landmarks, art and quintessential French style. Arrival point Paris Gare du Nord station is just a short Metro ride away from Paris’ countless bucket list worthy attractions and also serves as a seamless transit point if Paris is not your final destination. As France’s busiest rail hub, there are numerous intercity services all across Northern France.

Brussels and beyond  – Brussels is an even quicker trip from London at less than two hours. Much of its downtown is pedestrian friendly and generally laid back for a European capital, so a rewarding, hassle-free option for a day trip. A melange of French-Flemish cultural influences, Brussels delivers a multi-layered Northern European experience. Feeling more adventurous? Book a London to Brussels service with us with an ‘Any Belgium Station’ add-on, allowing you to venture further afield via a connecting Belgium Railways ( SNCB ) train.

Disneyland Paris  – Although Eurostar does not currently run direct services to Disneyland Paris, it's still easy to get there by train. You can hop on a train from London to Lille ; from here, switch trains and get on a train to Marne-la-Vallée, home of Disneyland Paris . 

The Ski Train  – Feel like carving up some fresh powder in the French Alps? Eurostar can take you there. Departing each Saturday during winter months, you can catch a train to Lille and then change for a high-speed TGV train for onward travel to the French Alps, where you can enjoy top mountain resorts including Tignes, Les Arcs and Courchevel.

South of France  – Got time to spare? Rural South of France and the French Riviera beckons. In less than five hours you can be enjoying a culinary getaway in Lyon - just hop on a train to Paris and then transfer to another train when you're in the capital. A little further south unlocks the cultured history of Avignon or continue on to vibrant Marseille , the gateway to the sun-kissed French Riviera.

Amsterdam  –   Eurostar’s newest London to Europe destination needs no introduction. The Dutch capital’s buzzing lifestyle and serene canals have always been a big draw and now are under four hours away by high-speed train from London. Those wild party weekends in Amsterdam just got so much easier. The service also stops at Rotterdam .

How long is the Chunnel ride?

The Channel Tunnel section of the ride connecting the coastlines of Southern England and Northern France lasts just 20 minutes as you speed along beneath the English Channel. The Chunnel spans 31 miles in length and top speed within the tunnel is reduced to 100mph. Complete Eurostar journey times from London range from 2h 16m direct to Paris, less than two hours to Brussels, and about 3h 50m to Amsterdam.  The shortest trip is to the Northern French city of Lille, at just 1h 20m, making it an ideal fuss-free day trip option.

Choosing Eurostar is a no-brainer when comparing it with air travel to Paris or Brussels. Say au revoir to a long journey out of the city to London Heathrow Airport plus a time-consuming check-in procedure and security screening. By the time you actually get in the air, you could have already arrived, sipping your first coffee in a Parisian pavement café.

Ready to book your tickets?

25 Amazing Day Trips to Europe From UK

• July 21, 2023

Have you ever dreamt of exploring Europe’s most captivating cities, but don’t want the expensive costs of hotel accommodation?

No problem!

In this article we’ll guide you to 25 amazing day trips to Europe from the UK. Whether it is by flight or train, all of the destinations mentioned will have you back in your own bed the same night!

In just a day, you can experience the charm of Paris, the historic architecture of Brussels, or the vibrant culture of Dublin.

So buckle up and get ready to decide on your next daycation through Europe’s capitals, coastal escapes, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, cultural hubs, and lesser-known gems.

Exploring Europe’s Capitals

Can you imagine hopping from the UK to Paris, Brussels, or Dublin in just a day? It’s not only possible, but incredibly exciting!

Europe’s capitals offer a diverse taste of culture, history, and architecture, making them perfect destinations for day trips from the UK.

Whether you’re strolling along the Seine in Paris, admiring Brussels’ architectural beauty, or soaking up the lively atmosphere of Dublin, you’ll be amazed by how much you can see and experience in just one day.

Paris, France

Ah, Paris – the City of Love!

On a day trip from the UK, you can experience the romance and culture of Paris with its iconic landmarks, museums, and charming streets.

Imagine a train ride whisking you from London City Airport to the French capital, where you can climb the majestic Eiffel Tower, enjoy people watching with a freshly baked pastry at a corner café, or explore shopping on the famous Champs Elysées.

Don’t forget to take a river cruise boat tour on the Seine to see Paris from a different perspective and explore the city centre. With cafés and bakeries in Montmartre just a short walk away, you’ll have the perfect Parisian breakfast experience before delving into the city’s attractions.

Brussels, Belgium

From the UK, embark on a journey to Brussels, Belgium, a European city known for its exciting mix of art, architecture, cool bars, and restaurants. In just under two hours, you can find yourself exploring the stunning buildings in the Grand Place, wandering the narrow streets lined with restaurants and shopping arcades, and admiring the city’s street art and museums.

While in Brussels, why not plan a fabulous day trip to Bruges, another beautiful European city known for its beautiful historic center and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Just over one hour away from London, you can enjoy a drink in one of the most beautiful squares in town during summer in Antwerp and visit the MAS museum, just 10 minutes away from the Oude Markt.

Dublin, Ireland

Hop on a plane at London Heathrow Airport and immerse yourself in Dublin’s lively atmosphere, historic sites, and vibrant pub scene on a day trip from the UK. With a flight time of just 1hr 20mins, you’ll find yourself:

• exploring the cobbled streets of Temple Bar
• following the Heritage Trail
• strolling through Phoenix Park
• visiting the Guinness Factory

With Dublin’s friendly locals and walkable sights within walking distance, you’ll instantly feel at home in this exciting European capital.

Prague, Czechia

Wander through the fairy-tale streets of Prague, Czechia, and admire its gothic architecture, medieval streets, and stunning buildings. In just 1 hour and 45 minutes from London, you’ll be mesmerised by the sights of the iconic Charles Bridge and the quaint cobbled streets of the old town.

Make your way to the city centre, where you’ll find the main square featuring:

• The grand astronomical clock
• Vibrant spring events on the river
• Wonderful outdoor markets
• Vibrant al fresco bars in the picturesque city squares

Prague’s incredible entertainment awaits you on this unforgettable day trip.

Berlin, Germany

Delve into the rich history, art, and architecture of Berlin, Germany on a day trip from the UK. Discover:

• The Berlin wall
• East Side Gallery
• Amazing street art
• Vibrant markets
• Stunning parks
• Iconic monuments

These attractions make Berlin an unforgettable destination.

With so much to see and experience, Berlin is a must-visit European capital for history buffs and art enthusiasts alike.

Budapest, Hungary

Unearth the hidden treasures of Budapest, Hungary, and discover its stunning architecture, thermal baths, and vibrant nightlife. From the majestic Parliament building to the captivating Buda Castle, Budapest offers a wealth of cultural experiences for visitors.

Take a dip in the famous Szechenyi Baths or Gellert Baths, and indulge in the city’s unique gastronomy. Budapest is an enchanting European capital that will leave you longing for more.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Venture to Copenhagen, Denmark, and enjoy the city’s charming streets, Tivoli Gardens, and unique attractions.

From the colourful Copenhagen Harbour of Nyhavn to the enchanting Little Mermaid statue, this is a city brimming with wonder and excitement.

Experience Danish “hygge” firsthand as you explore the picturesque streets, indulge in delicious cuisine, and immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

Oslo, Norway

Journey to Oslo, Norway, and experience the city’s scenic beauty, historical attractions, and world-class museums. From the iconic Vigeland Sculpture Park to the fascinating Viking Ship Museum, Oslo offers a captivating glimpse into Norway’s rich history and culture.

Whether you’re strolling along the waterfront or exploring the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, Oslo is a must-visit European capital for any traveler.

Stockholm, Sweden

Explore Stockholm’s picturesque old town, waterfront attractions, and vibrant culture on a day trip from the UK. Wander the charming cobblestone streets of Gamla Stan, visit the historic Royal Palace, and immerse yourself in the city’s rich history at the Vasa Museum.

Stockholm’s enchanting blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication makes it an unforgettable European destination.

Coastal European Escapes

Looking for a seaside escape? Europe’s beautiful coastal cities offer relaxation and unique experiences you won’t forget. From the sun-soaked beaches of Nice, France, to the party paradise of Ibiza, Spain, and the romantic canals of Venice, Italy, these coastal escapes provide the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life.

So pack your sunscreen and get ready to unwind in some of Europe’s most stunning beach destinations. Enjoy the sun, sand, and surf, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Nice, France

Stroll along Nice’s glamorous Mediterranean coastline and explore its charming old town on a day trip from the UK. From the breathtaking Promenade des Anglais to the daily flower market, Nice offers an enchanting blend of vibrant culture and stunning natural beauty.

Discover the city’s hidden gems and indulge in its delicious cuisine as you soak up the sun on the French Riviera. Enjoy the city’s vibrant nightlife, explore its historic monuments, and take in the city’s vibrant nightlife.

Ibiza, Spain

Experience the vibrant nightlife and stunning beaches of Ibiza on a day trip from the UK. Dance the night away at world-famous clubs, or relax on the island’s pristine sandy shores.

Ibiza’s unique blend of excitement and relaxation makes it the perfect destination for those looking to let loose and unwind in a beautiful setting.

Venice, Italy

Discover the romantic canals and historic architecture of Venice, Italy on a day trip from the UK.

• Glide through the city’s enchanting waterways on a gondola
• Marvel at the stunning St. Mark’s Basilica
• Explore the vibrant art scene at the Peggy Guggenheim Collection.

Venice’s captivating charm and rich cultural heritage make it an unforgettable coastal escape.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Why not enrich your European day trip experience by visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites? From the medieval charm of Bruges, Belgium, to the stunning old town of Luxembourg City, Luxembourg, and the rich history of Krakow, Poland, these destinations offer a unique insight into Europe’s cultural and architectural heritage.

Step back in time and uncover the stories behind these incredible sites on your next day trip from the UK. Discover the best day trips from London and make the most of your time exploring the rich history and culture of the surrounding areas.

Bruges, Belgium

Explore the medieval charm of Bruges on a day trip from London, with its cobblestone streets, canals, and historic buildings. Wander the quaint streets of this picturesque Belgian city, and be transported back in time as you admire the stunning architecture of the Belfry, the Basilica of the Holy Blood, and the Church of Our Lady.

Bruges’ enchanting atmosphere and well-preserved historic centre make it a must-visit UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Luxembourg City, Luxembourg

Discover Luxembourg City’s stunning old town, fortifications, and picturesque views on a day trip from the UK. Known for its rich history and beautiful architecture, Luxembourg City offers a unique blend of modern sophistication and medieval charm.

Wander the city’s charming streets on a walking tour, visit the iconic Grand Ducal Palace, and marvel at the breathtaking views of the Alzette and Pétrusse valleys.

Krakow, Poland

Experience the rich history and cultural heritage of Krakow, Poland on a day trip from the UK. Some highlights of the trip include:

• Visiting the stunning Wawel Castle
• Exploring the historic Jewish Quarter of Kazimierz
• Taking a tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Auschwitz-Birkenau and paying your respects at the poignant Holocaust memorial.

Krakow offers a captivating glimpse into Poland’s past and is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts.

Krakow’s fascinating history and vibrant cultural scene make it an unforgettable European destination.

Cultural and Artistic Hubs

Immerse yourself in the culture and art of European cities like:

From the elegant architecture of Vienna to the picturesque canals of Amsterdam and the charming old town of Gdansk, these cultural hubs offer unique experiences and unforgettable memories.

Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, or a food lover, you’ll find something to delight your senses in these vibrant European destinations.

Vienna, Austria

Enjoy Vienna’s elegant architecture, world-class museums, and vibrant coffeehouse culture on a day trip from the UK.

• Discover the majestic Schönbrunn Palace
• Marvel at the stunning St. Stephen’s Cathedral
• Immerse yourself in the city’s rich musical history at the Vienna State Opera.

With its charming streets and lively atmosphere, Vienna is a must-visit destination for culture and art enthusiasts.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Discover Amsterdam’s picturesque canals, historic center, and renowned art museums on a day trip from the UK. Wander the charming streets of the Dutch capital, visit the iconic Anne Frank House, and explore the world-renowned Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit Amsterdam and experience its unique atmosphere.

With its unique blend of history, art, and culture, Amsterdam is a must-visit destination for any European traveler.

Gdansk, Poland

Explore Gdansk’s charming old town, maritime history, and amber shops on a day trip from the UK.

• Wander the cobblestone streets of this Polish city
• Visit the historic Gdansk Shipyard
• Discover the city’s rich history at the European Solidarity Centre.

With its picturesque streets, vibrant cultural scene, and unique shopping experiences, Gdansk is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

Bologna, Italy

Experience Bologna’s rich culinary scene, historic architecture, and lively atmosphere on a day trip from the UK. Savor the flavors of traditional dishes such as tortellini, lasagna, and mortadella, and marvel at the stunning Basilica di San Petronio and the majestic Palazzo Comunale.

With its vibrant markets, lively piazzas, and friendly locals, Bologna is a must-visit destination for food lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.

Munich, Germany

Visit Munich for its beer gardens, historic sites, and vibrant cultural scene on a day trip from the UK. Explore the city’s picturesque old town, attend a traditional Bavarian beer festival, and discover Munich’s rich history at the Deutsches Museum.

With its lively atmosphere, stunning architecture, and world-famous Oktoberfest, Munich is an unforgettable European destination.

Milan, Italy

Discover Milan’s fashion, art, and iconic landmarks on a day trip from the UK.

• Wander the stylish streets of this Italian city
• Visit the breathtaking Duomo di Milano
• Explore the world-renowned art museums, including the Pinacoteca di Brera and the Museo del Novecento.

Milan’s captivating charm and rich cultural heritage make it an unforgettable coastal escape.

Lesser Known Gems

Uncover lesser-known European gems like:

Cork, Ireland

Porto, portugal, frankfurt, germany, bordeaux, france.

On day trips from the UK, a day trip abroad can lead you to the lively atmosphere of Cork, Ireland, to the stunning riverside of Porto, Portugal, and the modern skyline of Frankfurt, Germany. These hidden treasures offer unique experiences off the beaten path.

Step away from the tourist crowds and discover the charm and beauty of these lesser-known destinations. Explore the cobblestone streets of Bordeaux, France, and sample the local cuisine.

Experience Cork’s lively atmosphere, historic sites, and beautiful surrounding countryside on a day trip from the UK. Wander the city’s charming streets, visit the iconic St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral, and explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Wild Atlantic Way.

With its friendly locals, vibrant pubs, and stunning natural beauty, Cork is an unforgettable European gem.

Discover Porto’s stunning riverside, historic architecture, and world-famous port wine on a day trip from the UK. Wander the city’s picturesque streets, visit the iconic Clérigos Tower, and sample the region’s renowned wine at a local cellar.

With its enchanting blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, Porto is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

Explore Frankfurt’s highlights on a day trip from the UK. Here are some must-see attractions.

• Städel Museum: Discover the city’s fascinating history through its extensive art collection.
• Römerberg square: Visit this iconic square in the heart of the old town, surrounded by historic buildings.
• Local restaurant: Enjoy a traditional German meal at a local restaurant, and savor the flavors of Frankfurt.

With its unique blend of old-world charm and contemporary sophistication, Frankfurt is a must-visit European destination.

Immerse yourself in Bordeaux’s world-renowned wine culture, historic sites, and charming streets on a day trip from the UK. Wander the city’s picturesque streets, visit the iconic Place de la Bourse, and sample the region’s famous wines at a local vineyard.

With its enchanting blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, Bordeaux is an unforgettable European gem.

Tips for Planning Your European Day Trip

To make the most of your European day trip, consider transportation options such as the fast Eurostar train or frequent cheap flights from London. Plan your itinerary in advance and research the best cities to visit during different seasons. For instance, avoid visiting Venice during peak tourist season to escape the crowds. Don’t forget to check the proximity of your destination to a train station for easier access.

Be prepared for different service standards in restaurants and cafes, and remember to wear comfortable shoes to explore Europe’s cobblestone streets. With careful planning and an open mind, you’ll create unforgettable memories on your European day trip from the UK.

From exploring Europe’s capitals and coastal escapes to uncovering hidden gems and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, there’s no shortage of exciting day trips from the UK. Whether you’re strolling through the charming streets of Paris, indulging in the world-famous wines of Bordeaux, or immersing yourself in the vibrant culture of Amsterdam, these unforgettable European destinations offer a wealth of unique experiences. So why wait? Embark on your next European adventure and create memories that will last a lifetime!

Frequently Asked Questions

What countries can you visit for a day.

Explore and experience different cultures in just one day! Visit countries like France, Ireland, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Spain, Italy, Latvia, Slovakia, Denmark, and Norway for a memorable day-trip.

Experience the unique culture of each country, from the food to the architecture, and create lasting memories. Immerse yourself in the local culture.

What countries can you do a day trip from London?

You can easily take a day trip to countries like France, Belgium and the Netherlands from London! Have a great time exploring Europe in a single day!

Can you do a day trip to France?

You can definitely do a day trip to France! Visit some idyllic towns for shopping, dining and sightseeing, all within a short train, flight or ferry! Sail from Portsmouth to Caen, Cherbourg or St Malo with options of a same-day return or overnight sailing.

Plus, you can mix routes to make your perfect itinerary – it’s the perfect way to make the most of Paris!

Can you travel Europe from London?

Travelling to Europe from London has never been easier thanks to the Channel Tunnel and high-speed trains from London St Pancras International! Experience the wonders of northern Europe’s iconic capitals at lightning-speed – a perfect way to begin your next European adventure.

What transportation options are available for European day trips from the UK?

If you’re looking for convenient transportation options for your European day trip from the UK, Eurostar trains and cheap flights are your best bet!

Eurostar trains offer a fast and comfortable journey, with direct services from London to Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam, and other major cities. They are also a great way to explore the continent, with stops in many smaller towns.

Explore more about Paris

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27 Best Day Trips in Europe, One Should Not Miss !

List of All Europe’s Top Day Trips 

With the pandemic situation slowly coming back to normal across Europe, European citizens have already started to make day trips across the smaller towns nearby. 

Although, given the situation, the idea of travel is still very dicey all around the world but with proper measures, flights have resumed domestic operations which means normalcy in internal travel across Europe is likely to be seen by Sept/ Oct.

For those who stay in Europe, and for those who have plans to travel in Europe . The continent offers plenty of amazing day trips option within countries or sometimes within towns, so that one can easily cover the attractions over a day or so.

Europe is dotted with several beautiful places and more so with the amazing connectivity within each country due to its robust transport system and excellent roads, which makes it even more convenient for travelers to undertake as many day trips in Europe .

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So, this article will give you enough choices to opt from some of the best day trips options across Europe.

1. Day trip from the High Tatras to Stara Lubovna (Slovakia)

Table of Contents

By Slavka | On2Continents 

Slovakia is a perfect day trip destination in Europe because its territory is compact, and you can easily travel from one end to the other in one day. When you visit the most popular national park called the High Tatras and you’d like to do some cultural travel besides hiking in the mountains, highly recommended is a day trip to Stara Lubovna .

If you go by car, you can reach the small town in about 30 minutes. If you have to rely on public transportation, then the journey to Stara Lubovna takes 60 to 80 minutes. From the High Tatras, take the TEZ train to Poprad where you hop on the Stara Lubovna shuttle train and then walk uphill to Stara Lubovna Castle for about 30 minutes. You can also take a taxi.

Stara Lubovna is a small town and its touristic attraction is all about the majestic medieval castle that dominates the panorama. Stara Lubovna belongs to one of the best and visitor-friendly castles in Slovakia. You have plenty to do there for the whole day. First, visit the castle on a guided tour and then explore the rest on foot on your own time. There is more to see after the tour. You can climb the tall tower for fantastic views and then you can descend to the deepest dungeon.

Directly below the castle, there is an open-air folk museum which is a well-preserved, authentic folk village. It’s very interesting to explore the large collection of wooden houses and their indoor spaces.

2. Day Trip to Giverny from Paris (France)

By Stephen | Monk bought lunch

Make like Monet and leave the streets of Paris behind – his gardens in the quaint little village of Giverny in the Ile-de-France countryside are a classic escape from the city and a welcome respite in natural surroundings from the bustle of Paris.

Monet’s garden and house in Giverny are equal parts of rural country retreat and quiet ode to the great artist. Many scenes inside will already feel familiar to fans of the Impressionist’s work, particularly his later period as Monet’s health began to decline and he wandered away less and less from grounds of this very house and the Clos Normand just outback.

The interior of the house, which remains much as it did during the artist’s own life, now also exhibits many of his works. Not exactly in situ to the location represented, but at least on-site and authentically connected to Monet and his legacy.

Though a public bus runs occasionally from the nearest train station in the town of Vernon , opt instead to bike along quiet backroads that connect the town to the countryside estate, passing historic churches and lovely little inns along the way. Before leaving Vernon, you can even stop at the local market to pick up a picnic to eat in the very same fields that Monet himself used to explore concepts of light and color in his early years at Giverny – it’ll probably leave quite an Impression.

3. Day Trip to Corinth from Athens (Greece)

By Nina | Lemons and Luggage

Heading to Corinth from Athens, Greece is one of the best day trips in Europe. And it actually includes two places: New Corinth and Ancient Corinth. Because while Ancient Corinth is not located in the modern town of Corinth it can easily be reached by taxi.

To get from Athens to Corinth you only need to take the train for an hour, making this one of the best day trips from Athens . The train from Athens to Kiato will leave you at the Corinth train station from where you can take a taxi into town.

Modern Corinth is well worth a stroll itself and is quite underrated among tourists. But you will probably appreciate the lack of other tourists as you walk through the town center and along the sea. Don’t miss the famous statue of Alexander the Great and philosopher Diogenes.

If you’re into the history of Ancient Greece a 10-minute taxi ride to Ancient Corinth is an absolute must when you’re in Corinth. Here you can see Acrocorinth, the acropolis of Ancient Corinth, commonly known to be one of the most spectacular acropolis sites in the entire country.

Below Acrocorinth, you will find the Archaeological Museum of Ancient Corinth . For €8 you can see both the museum as well as the entire archaeological site which includes the beautiful Temple of Apollo , the Glauke Fountain, the Pirene Fountain, and the Theater of Ancient Corinth.

4. Day Trip to Tallinn from Helsinki (North Europe) 

By David | Surveys Fanatic

If you are looking for the best day trip in North Europe, it’s hard to go past visiting Tallinn, Estonia from Helsinki, Finland.

Despite seeming like these two countries are in different parts of Europe, they are amazingly close and it takes just a two-hour ferry trip to travel between the two. Ferries run regularly and can be quite cheap, especially if you book in advance.

Tallinn is a fantastic destination with one of the best medieval old towns in the world. This is a short taxi ride from the ferry terminal and the first (and possibly only) place you will want to head on your day trip. Once here, explore the colorful Old Town on foot. Start by climbing the Old Town Tower for great views as well as the tower in St Olav’s church.

Learn more about Estonia at the Estonian History Museum and Estonian Maritime Museum and visit some of the well-preserved churches. You also can’t miss a walk around the Old Town walls.

If you can tear yourself away from the Old Town, a short walk away is a different experience. You can take a one hour tour at the Original Sokos Hotel Vira . This building was also an international hotel in Soviet times with KGB officers who would work at the hotel monitoring what was going on. It’s a very different side of Estonia’s history to explore.

5. Day Trip from Lisbon to Costa Vicentina (Portugal)

By Alya & Campbell | Stingy Nomads

The Costa Vicentina in the south of Portugal is a great place for a day trip from Lisbon . The scenery along the coast is truly breathtaking; pristine beaches, dramatic cliffs, hidden bays, charming fishermen villages and blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean.

The Costa is located 160km south of Lisbon, less than a 2-hour drive. The best way to visit the area is to rent a car and drive along the coast stopping at look-outs, beaches, and small towns along the route. It’s possible to get to the coast by public transport from Lisbon. There are several daily buses from Sete Rios Bus Station.

Porto Covo, a small beach town, is the best place to start the trip. The town is absolutely beautiful; cobbled streets, traditional white fishermen houses, cozy street cafes, stunning coastal views, and a couple of small beaches nearby. One can easily spend here the whole day wandering along the streets, eating fresh seafood at local restaurants, chilling on the beach, swimming, kayaking, and walking along the coast following the Fisherman’s Trail , one of the most beautiful hiking routes in Portugal.

It’s possible to walk from Porto Covo to Vila Nova de Milfontes, the next town, following the trail and take a bus back to Lisbon from there. The walk takes between 5 and 6 hours, it’s best to start from Porto Covo in the morning.

If you travel by car from Porto Covo continue driving along the coast. There are several amazing places not to miss such as Vila Nova de Mirfontes, Cabo Sarao, Almograve Beach, Amoreira Beach, and more. 

Also, read about Top Festivals of Europe 

6. Day Trip from London to Winchester (United Kingdom)

By Deeptha | The Globe Trotter

The cathedral city of Winchester is located on the edge of the South Downs in the county of Hampshire. With fast trains from London to Winchester taking less than an hour, Winchester makes for a great day trip from London . You can also travel to Winchester by bus with National Express operating around eight services daily from London (with a journey time of around 1 hour 45 mins).

Winchester is one of the UK’s most historic cities and has a horde of attractions. Popular ones are Winchester Cathedral (one of Britain’s greatest cathedrals), the Great Hall (home to the legendary Arthurian Round Table and Prince Charles’s ‘Wedding Gates’), Winchester College (the oldest continuously running school in the UK), Wolvesey Castle and Palace, Hospital of St Cross and the City Museum.

Other places that visitors can visit include Winchester’s military museums, the Guildhall, Winchester City Mill, and St Peter’s Catholic Church.

In addition to the above, Winchester has a thriving shopping scene with an array of popular big-name stores, boutiques and small independent businesses. It is a great place to pick up all kinds of knick-knackery and unique gifts.

When it comes to the dining scene, Winchester has some really great pubs, lively bars, grab-and-go food stalls, and fine dining venues. Whatever your taste, you will find great places to enjoy a meal out.

With so many things to see and do in Winchester , it is no wonder the city makes for a great day trip destination.

7. Day Trip from Galway to the Cliffs of Moher (Ireland)

  By Sarah |  The Tales of tiny boots

The Cliffs of Moher is undoubtedly one of Ireland’s most popular attractions; while Galway is a firm favorite when it comes to the best city in Europe. You can tick both of these must-see places off in one go with a day trip from Galway to the Cliffs of Moher.

Galway is the cultural capital of Ireland. There is so much charm and buckets of atmosphere packed into this small medieval city. There is so much to do, from pubs heaving with craic and Irish music, to enjoying the beautiful streets and fishing village of The Claddagh , taking in views of the Spanish Arch, and the Long Walk. and experience the festival atmosphere of the Latin quarter. 

The drive to the Cliffs of Moher is a treat in itself, passing by miles and miles of open green countryside with the wild Irish coast on your right. On route you can stop in the charming village of Kinvara, a fishing village with Dunguaire Castle , looking straight out of a fairytale. 

Continue on this coastal route and you will arrive at the Burren – one of Ireland’s most unique landscapes .

Before hitting the cliffs, be sure to stop off in Doolin, the small village beloved by tourists . Stop off in the chocolate shop or grab a pint at Gus O’Connors pub. In Doolin, you can actually have the unique experience of walking the Doolin cliffs right the way to the Cliffs of Moher.

The Cliffs of Moher are the top attraction in the area. These sheer cliffs stand at a crazy 200m and run for 8km along the coast. You will have great views of the Atlantic and Ireland’s rugged western coastline . A site you will always remember.

8. Day trip to Sighisoara from Brasov (Romania)

Arnav Mathur from Eat | Travel | Live | Repeat 

Romania is one of the unexplored gems in Europe (as compared to other popular destinations), that should be there on your travel bucket list for sure. Romania is not only home to Bran Castle aka Dracula’s Castle, but also to one of Europe’s most well preserved medieval cities – Sighisoara. Which incidentally happens to be the birthplace of Vlad Tepes aka Count Dracula , and also a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

One thing that stands out about the Old Town in Sighisoara is the pastel-colored houses , which along with the cobbled stone paths, give Sighișoara a distinct identity. A leisure walk along the cobbled stone paths is highly recommended, and if you happen to walk into a local distillery, a free Palinka tasting session might follow.

Sighisoara without a doubt is one of Transylvania’s prettiest towns and makes for a great day trip from Brasov, Romania’s 7th most populous city.   Brasov , located 166 km north of Bucharest, Romania’s Capital , acts as a gateway to exploring Transylvania, and is also home to Poiana Brasov – a popular Ski Town, just a couple of hours by road from Bucharest.

The most convenient way of reaching Brasov from Bucharest is by train. And another train from Brașov to Sighișoara. Just for your information, Brasov to Sighisoara is just 90 km , so you can easily do a road trip as well. And if you plan to stay in Sighisoara for the night, there are plenty of Airbnb’s that you can check out too. Just enquire on the spot.

9. Day Trip to Dublin to Kilkenny (Ireland)

By Bruna Venturinelli | Maps ‘N Bags

After staying in Dublin and enjoying everything this buzzing city has to offer, many travelers venture on a day trip to Kilkenny.

Kilkenny is a charming medieval city located in the center of Ireland. The city is full of lively pubs, impressive castles, and a dynamic art scene.

Because of that, there are lots of exciting things to do in Kilkenny, such as visiting Kilkenny Castle. This castle, built-in 1195, is a symbol of the Viking occupation in Ireland and is an exciting place worth visiting.

Beyond that, Kilkenny has many other medieval sites, such as St. Candice’s Cathedral with its tower, the oldest construction in town, and the Black Abbey with an impressive history.

But after visiting so many sacred places, you will want to dive into the past of Kilkenny in the town’s oldest surviving house – The Hole in the Wall.

While Irish pubs are renowned for their welcoming atmosphere and memorable characters, The Hole in the Wall goes the extra mile. Built-in 1582, this pub pre-dates Trinity College Dublin and is the most famous pub in the whole country. As the name says, it is a tiny bar where locals squeeze in to hear stories, music, or just to have a nice drink.

10. Day Trip from Munich to Salzburg (Central Europe)

By Vrushali |   Couple of Journeys

After you are done exploring the beauty of Bavaria, you should definitely consider taking a day trip from Munich to Salzburg. The best way to travel between Munich and Salzburg is by train. A train journey from Munich to Salzburg usually takes about two hours. 

Plenty of small Bavarian and Austrian towns will greet you on your train journey. Plus, traveling by train saves you toll fees and the trouble of having to park your car far away from the city center in Salzburg. 

If you are planning to cover all of Salzburg within a day and come back to Munich by evening, you should take a train that leaves by 9 in the morning. If you are traveling as a family, a great tip to save money is to buy a Bayern Ticket or a Bavaria ticket which is valid even on trains going to Salzburg. 

Some places that you must visit on your day trip to Salzburg are the Hohensalzburg Fortress, the Mirabell Palace and Gardens, the Hellbrunn Palace and Zoo, and of course the birthplace and residence of Mozart. 

If you are a Sound of Music fan , you should definitely book yourself a guided Sound of Music tour that will take you to all the filming locations of the classic movie. A typical tour usually takes about 4 hours.

You should also leave yourself enough time to shop in the Old Town, eat the famous ‘Mozart balls’ and probably even enjoy a short cruise in the Salzach River.   After you are done exploring the wonderful Austrian city, take an evening train and head back to Munich. 

11. Day Trip from Interlaken to Jungfraujoch  (Switzerland)

By Carolyn | Holidays to Switzerland

One of the best day trips in Europe is the excursion from the Swiss town of Interlaken to Jungfraujoch mountain , where you’ll find Europe’s highest railway station.

The trip involves a series of connecting train rides from Interlaken via either Lauterbrunnen or Grindelwald to Kleine Scheidegg, a journey which takes around 90 minutes. 

At Kleine Scheidegg passengers transfer to the Jungfraubahn for the final ascent, part of which goes through a seven kilometer-long tunnel through the mountain, to Jungfraujoch, at 3,454 meters above sea level.

Once at the summit, there is plenty to do.  As well as shops and restaurants, visitors can admire ice sculptures in the Ice Palace, learn more about the history of the Jungfrau railway in the Alpine Sensation tunnel exhibition and enjoy spectacular views from the terrace of the Sphinx Observatory.

With a panorama of snow-capped mountain peaks and the Aletsch Glacier, the vista is one that will take your breath away.

During the summer months, a number of outdoor activities are offered in the Snow Park.  They include sledging, snow tubing, skiing, and ziplining and are a fun way to spend an hour or two. 

As the trip to Jungfraujoch takes two hours each way from Interlaken, it’s best to allow a full day for your excursion.  You’ll want to spend at least three hours at the summit in order to visit all the exhibitions, browse the shops, enjoy a bite to eat and partake in some of the snow activities before your scenic journey back to Interlaken.

12. Day Trip from Catania to Taormina (Sicily)

By Veronika | Travel Geekery

One of the prettiest day trip options in Europe takes us to Taormina , an enchanting town in the Northeast of Sicily. You can visit it easily from Catania, the capital of Sicily , since it’s located just an hour drive away. There are buses and trains going between Catania and Taormina too, each taking about an hour.

Taormina is a wonderful blend of historical sights, great food, and beautiful beaches. When visiting Taormina , one shouldn’t leave out the Ancient Greek Theatre. The amphitheater is well preserved and offers absolutely stunning views over the coast.

Strolling along the Corso Umberto all the way from Porta Messina to Porta Catania will have you come across the most notable churches and buildings, such as the Santa Caterina Church, a medieval palace called Palazzo Corvaja and churches Chiesa di Sant’Agostino and Chiesa di San Giuseppe at the Piazza IX Aprile square.

A quick cable car ride then takes you from the town level to the beaches. You can skip the closest but too small Mazzaro Beach and head to the prettier and more spacious Isola Bella Beach with a little islet of the same name, which you can walk to.

When coming to this part of Sicily, skipping Taormina would be a huge mistake. Base yourself in Catania and make a day trip to the charming town!

13. Day Trip from Munich to Garmisch-Parenkirchen (Germany)

By Darek | Darek and Gosia Travel Blog

Europe is known for its beauty and number of day trips option. From famous cities to stunning beaches. But there are also some hidden gems, located a bit further away from the well-known locations. If you are planning to visit Germany, Garmisch-Partenkirchen will be definitely one of them!

Rent a car at Munich airport and head out on the road! It will take you around 90 minutes to get to a different world – a fairy-tale-like town in the southern region of Germany – Bavaria.

There is so much to see in this stunning area that one day might not be enough. Having said that you can still visit a few amazing places on your day from Munich.

Start with the obvious one – the Garmisch-Partenkirchen town . This twin-town is a very famous ski resort in Germany due to the fact that in 1936 Olympic Winter Games were held there. It is also one of the prettiest places in the country. After walking around, visit Partnachklamm – a stunning gorge with a mountain stream.

Your next stop is located 15 minutes away. Drive to Parkplatz am Eibsee and take a cable car to the top of Zugspitze – the highest mountain in Germany. The views from the top are spectacular – especially the beautiful Eibsee lake looks fantastic from there. To finish off your day, go for a walk around the lake before driving back to Munich!

14. Day Trip to Mooska Smoke Sauna from Tallin (Estonia)

By Oksana & Max | Drink Tea & Travel 

Located 3 hours from Tallinn or 2 hours from Riga, Mooska Smoke Sauna may be one of longer European day trips but it is worthwhile nonetheless. Our Mooska Smoke Sauna experience was one of the most memorable experiences we had in Tallinn and it was definitely the most unique spa experience we have had to date. 

Mooska Smoke Sauna is a traditional Estonian smoke sauna experience that has been dubbed a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity activity. The sauna is located on a traditional farm amidst nature and is meant to cleanse the body and the mind.

At Mooska Farm you will be welcomed with open arms and guided through the elaborate 3-hour woodfired smoke sauna experience by the charming host, Eda. The experience takes you in and out of the hot sauna and is punctuated by chanting, meditation, whisking with leaves and twigs, honey scrubs, and even an optional ice-cold skinny dip! Unique to say the least!

The sauna is a sacred place for the local people and experiencing it first hand gave us a unique insight into local traditions. Afterward, we had an amazing homemade lunch at the farm which included lots of local products and goods like their famous smoked meats which are cured inside the sauna. If you have an opportunity to take a day trip from Tallinn or Riga, don’t hesitate to go to the Mooska Smoke Sauna.

15. Day Trip from Rome to Pompeii (Italy)

By Katy | Untold Travel

Visit the ancient city of Pompeii destroyed by the explosion of Mount Vesuvius in 79AD on one of the best day trips from Rome . The famous ruins of the city were preserved by ash and lava that erupted from the volcano and it’s here you can see how people lived in southern Italy almost 2,000 years ago.

At the site, you can visit the luxurious houses of the wealthy, bakeries, a vineyard, and Pompeii’s amphitheater where gladiators fought for glory just as they did at the Colosseum in Rome.

There are a few ways to visit Pompeii from Rome. You can take the fast train to Naples and transfer to the local Circumvesuviana train and get off at Pompeii Scavi – Villa Dei Misteri. The journey takes around 2 hours including transfer time in Naples and costs around €28 for the one way fare if you book in advance.

Alternatively, you can join a guided tour that will take you by bus to Pompeii where an archaeologist will show you the sights and tell you stories of this incredible preserved city. Some small group tours combine your Pompeii visit with some time in Sorrento, Naples, or even the Amalfi Coast for an action-packed day trip from Rome.

16. Day Trip from Paris to Strasbourg (France)

By Erin Parker | Love to Travel, Stay Eat Do

Strasbourg is a delightful European city, that I would highly recommend it to anyone who is visiting France. There are so many great things to do in Strasbourg and it really is an easy day trip from Paris by train, if you don’t have enough time to stay.

The picturesque train trip takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes from the French capital. Once you arrive, you should head directly to the pedestrianized area. Strasbourg has a great café and bar scene, the difficult decision will be, where to stop for lunch.

Take your time wandering through La Petite France , keep an eye out for Grande Ile and the half-timbered houses ; it is truly fairytale-like. Visit the Notre Dame Cathedrale, the Astronomical Clock and of course Place de la Republique, being the main square in Strasbourg.

There are many tour options in Strasbourg, by foot, bike, boat on the canals or by car or bus out to explore the Alsace Region and the wineries. There are some beautiful nearby to visit and explore, you could even hire a car for half a day and self-tour the area.

If you are visiting in December, be sure to put Strasbourg on your list, as they host remarkable Christmas markets.

17. Day Trip to Ring of Kerry ( Ireland )

By Cath | Travel Around Ireland 

One of the best day trips to take in Europe is one which takes you around the R ing of Kerry in southern Ireland. This 179-km circular route in County Kerry is a beautifully scenic route which usually starts from the town of Killarney. It is a very popular tourist route which can be enjoyed by bus tour, car or even bicycle (although this option will not leave you much time for stopping and visiting certain sites along the way).

The Killarney National Park sits within the boundaries of this route and part of the external route that runs along the coastline also forms part of the Wild Atlantic Way, another popular tourist route in Ireland.

Starting from Killarney, travel to Kenmare and then on top Sneem, taking time to visit the Torc Waterfall and Muckross House along the way. Driving from Kenmare around to Killorglin will allow you to follow the Wild Atlantic Way part of the Ring of Kerry. The rugged coastline is amazing and there are several quaint villages along the route to stop in for refreshments or lunch.

Before heading back to Killarney, you should visit the Gap of Dunloe, a valley that runs from Kate Kearney’s Cottage towards the village of Dunloe. It runs between the MacGillycuddy Reeks and the Purple Mountain range and follows four lakes.

You can hike or cycle the route, take a boat from Kate’s Cottage or take a horse and cart. The road is a public road, despite what the jaunting car owners would have you think but is narrow so passing opportunities are limited.

18. Day Trip from Belfast to Bangor (Ireland)

By Allan Wilson | Bangorni Travel Blog

Northern Ireland is a small and close-knit destination with well-connected routes from the capital city of Belfast. And all ends of the country can be found on leisurely day-trips by both rail and road. But one of the best day-trip destinations has to be Bangor (County Down ) a seaside resort overlooked by the big tour buses because it is just so easy to reach by a short 35-minute train ride. 

So Bangor is like the seaside alternative to staying in Belfast and it is most famous for its fancy marina and a seafront that marks the start of the North Down Coastal Path which is a famous coastline with beaches and walks in both directions.

Otherwise, tourism focuses a lot on its historical influences and Christian with an ancient abbey in the center of town as well as the North Down Museum found around the courtyard of Bangor Castle which looks over the town and coastline from above. 

The museum and other main tourist sites like the Victorian Walled Garden are also free of charge and the town offers a cheap and easy destination to cover on a day-trip on little more than a return train ticket from Belfast.

19. Day Trip from Prague to Terezin (Czech Republic)

By Jeremy  | Cultura Obscura

This is one of the not so easy day trips in Europe, but it is one worth taking. Terezin is an important historical site and a must for anyone wishing to learn more about what happened to the Czech Republic during WWII.

Formerly a fortress known as Theresienstadt , the town of Terezín was converted into a concentration camp/ghetto hybrid by the Nazis during World War II. Unlike other Nazi concentration camps, Terezín was a propaganda camp , with its purpose being to show a distorted view of what life was like as a prisoner under the Nazi regime.

Life was considered “better” here than most concentration camps because the inmates were allowed to play games and put on theatre productions, and the children were even allowed, art classes. But in reality, life in Terezin was horrific. Over 33,000 people died in the camp as a result of malnutrition and disease.

Today almost the entire town has been converted into a memorial museum for the victims of the Terezin Ghetto and Concentration Camp.

You can visit several museums within Terezin, the most prominent of which is the Ghetto Museum , dedicated to life in the ghetto. In addition to telling the story of the town, the museum also showcases artwork done by the children.

Terezín is just 39 miles from Prague and can be reached by private car or by bus leaving the city from Praha-Holesovice in the direction of Litoměřice. These buses run regularly throughout the day and take you directly into Terezín itself.

20. Day Trip from Kotor Bay to Dubrovnik (Croatia)

By Clotilde | A princess travelling with Twins

Montenegro is one of the beautiful countries in Europe with lovely people, good food, and stunning scenery especially on The Bay of Kotor and in the Durmitor National Park. If you can hire a car and spend time exploring these 2 gorgeous areas with its parks, lakes, and beaches, but you would be crazy not to pop across the border into Croatia and visit the city of Dubrovnik . 

Start early in the morning from Kotor and about 3 hours scenic driving will take you across the border arriving in Dubrovnik to enjoy the day. 

Dubrovnik is a delightful coastal City perched on the edge of the Adriatic, but one of the special attractions of Dubrovnik are the city walls which encircle the old city and you can walk on them!! It’s not so cheap, and can get pretty hot up there so make it your first stop and bring some water! 

After exploring the walls, enter into the city and allow yourself to get lost in the picturesque myriad of cobbled streets and squares but don’t forget to find a cafe to stop for a snack and a coffee, you will feel like you are in Rome! 

Dubrovnik has been used extensively as a filming location for the hugely popular Game of Thrones series and now draws many fans of the series who want to walk in the footsteps of their heroes and so can you! Find your own way or take a guided tour but don’t miss it! 

Before you leave take the cable car up to the top of Mount Srd to enjoy a scenic panorama over Dubrovnik. If you are happy to drive back to Montenegro in the dark then visit Mount Srd for Sunset, you won’t regret it!

21. Day Trip from Copenhagen to Helsingør (Denmark)

By Derek and Mike | Everything Copenhagen

One of Europe’s best day trips is traveling from Copenhagen, Denmark up the coastline to Helsingør, also known as Elsinore. Most people haven’t heard of Helsingør, but still they know the destination very well. That’s because it’s the setting of Shakespeare’s tragedy, Hamlet.

The main attraction in Helsingør is Kronborg Castle from Hamlet. It’s a fascinating Danish Renaissance castle that helped Denmark control the flow of goods in and out of the Baltic Sea during the Danish Golden Age.

The castle was also the home of Danish kings who often hosted acting troupes from London, and perhaps even Shakespeare himself. Whatever inspired Shakespeare to write about Kronborg Castle, his impact lives on there. Each summer day you can find Shakespearean actors performing scenes from Hamlet on the grounds.

Besides the castle, a Copenhagen day trip to Helsingør offers plenty more to do and see. There is a city museum, aquarium and a street food market on weekends. One of the best stops to make in Helsingør is the Danish Maritime Museum.

Denmark has a long tradition of surviving off the seas. Copenhagen sprung from a small fishing village to a world capital and Danish shipping has led the world since the Viking age.

Besides castles and museums, Helsingør is quintessential Scandinavian, with picturesque squares, cobblestone streets and pastel half-timber houses.

22. Day Trip from Madrid to Toledo (Spain)

By Jennifer Aspinwall | World on a Whim

The city of Toledo is a popular day trip from Madrid in West Europe as it is only 70 km outside of Spain’s capital city, and extremely accessible by bus or train. The high-speed train leaves from Madrid’s main train station, Atocha, and only takes 30 minutes. The bus journey takes about an hour to an hour and a half each way and costs around 5 -7 euros per trip. Ultimately, both transport options are very inexpensive for a day trip. 

Toledo, Spain is sure to be a highlight on your Spain itinerary . This walled city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site seated atop a gorge that overlooks the Tajo river. Muslims, Christians, and Jews all coexisted peacefully in Toledo during the Middle Ages which is why it is known as the “city of three cultures.” 

Today, those religious influences are still a significant part of the general landscape. Some of the main attractions to include on your day trip in Toledo are the La Catedral Primada, Mirador del Valle, and El Greco museum and monastery. 

You should plan on walking through the historic center and getting lost among the city streets during your day in Toledo. And, if you’re feeling extra adventurous, you should indulge in Toledo’s traditional dish for lunch, partridge stew, or their signature pork dish called Carcamusa . You can also get some shopping in at one or more of the many medieval shops aligning the streets. Swords and marzipan are popular souvenirs in Toledo.

23. Day Trip from London to Oxford (United Kingdom)

By Liliane Fawzy | My Toronto My World 

Oxford is most known for the world-renowned university but the town has so much to offer and an Oxford day trip from London is incredibly easy to do. You’ll find Oxford located about 1 hour from London. It’s accessible by either bus or train. While the train option is slightly faster and slightly more expensive, the X90 Tube makes it so easy to get to Oxford and with multiple pick-up locations in London it’s a no-brainer to use. 

A must-do in the town of Oxford is of course to visit Oxford University. Make sure to spend some time exploring colleges like Christ Church College and New College (both featured in the Harry Potter films!) and taking in architectural greats like the Radcliffe Camera and the Bridge of Sighs. If you’re interested in a vantage point of the town you can climb to the top of the University Church of St Mary the Virgin or the top of Carfax Tower.

In addition to exploring the university, other must-dos in Oxford include the Oxford Covered Market (where you can get some great local goods), the Pitt Rivers Museum, the Oxford Botanic Garden and so much more. If you’ve got a lot of time you can also visit the graves of both the great C. S. Lewis and the great J. R. R. Tolkien. Therefore, Oxford from London is no doubt one of the short and best day trips in Europe .

24. Day trip from Vienna to Budapest (Central Europe) 

B y Krisztina Harsanyi | She Wanders Abroad

Visiting Vienna (Austria) to Budapest (Hungary) can be easily done as a part of a day trip in Central Europe. Although it would be better to spend at least a weekend in Budapest , since Vienna in Austria is quite close to the Hungarian capital,  you can easily visit this amazing city in a d ay trip as well. If you have a car, it’s an easy 2.5-3-hour drive via the highways and you can leave as early as you want and come back as late as you please.

Trains run frequently between the two cities so you can also choose this option. The average travel time is 2 hours 45 minutes, the first one usually leaves around 6 am and the last one comes back around 7 pm which will give you almost a full day to explore Budapest.

If you plan to arrive by train, it will drop you off at ‘Keleti Pályaudvar’. From there you can take the metro line M2 in the direction of ‘ Déli Pályaudvar’ and take off at ‘ Batthányi tér’ metro stop. Right after you come up from the underground station, you will be facing directly one of the most breathtaking buildings in Budapest across the Danube river, t he Hungarian Parliament.

From there it’s an easy 10-minute walk to reach the famous Fisherman’s Bastion, which will grant you the best views in Budapest. Since the Buda Castle is really close, it’s worth taking a walk around the building and soak in the panoramic views from there as well.

After you’re finished with your sightseeing on the Buda side, cross the Széchenyi Chain Bridge to reach the Pest side of the city. This is the classic city center of Budapest and you can visit many amazing landmarks there like the St. Stephen’s Basilica, the Budapest Eye, or the Dohány Street Synagogue .

Simply spend your afternoon wandering around the streets, discovering all the beauty Budapest has to offer, and end the day with a beer or a cocktail in one of the ruin pubs before heading back to Vienna.

25. Day trip to Golden Circle from Reykjavik (Iceland)

By Nicole | Nicole LaBarge Travel Blog

Iceland is one of those places you need to drive around and see the beautiful landscapes and scenery.  One of the best day trips from Reyjkavik is going on the Golden Circle .  Not to be confused with the Ring Road which goes all the way around the island, the Golden Circle would only take a few hours to drive around but believe me you will want to take a lot longer and make a lot of stops along the way.

You can explore the Golden Circle of Iceland at any time of year.  This popular driving route will take you through the southern portion of the island, where you will experience such iconic natural wonders as Gullfoss Waterfall, Geysir Geothermal Field, and Thingvellir National Park.  

This is an iconic route around Iceland and the most popular day trip.  You will see beautiful waterfalls, stunning coastlines, and even Icelandic horses along the way.  Technically the Blue Lagoon is not part of the Golden Circle but there is no reason why you can’t add it to the end of this perfect day in Iceland.

26. Day Trip to Kinderdijk from Amsterdam (Netherlands)

By Constance | The Adventures of Panda Bear

As one of the most beautiful places in the Netherlands and Kinderdijk is the perfect day trip destination from Amsterdam . Located approximately 2 hours away from Amsterdam, it can be a bit far, but it is totally worthy of a Day Trip in Amsterdam, Europe.

Explore the Nederwaard Windmill Museum where you can see how millers lived during the Dutch Golden Age. The museum’s windmill is still operational and you can see how the windmill pumps water from the earth. 

Check out the Blokweer Polder Windmill Museum for some insight into one of the oldest windmills in Kinderdijk. This windmill moves water into the river and is home to a lush vegetable garden and cute farm animals. 

Don’t forget to take the boat tour! The cruiser tour takes approximately 30 minutes and will take you on a ride around the river, it’s a great way to explore the area. Alternatively, take the hop-on-hop-off boat which stops at 4 places along the river at various museums and viewpoints in Kinderdijk.

Of course, being in the Netherlands, you can also rent bikes and bike around in Kinderdijk. Get the full Dutch experience while in the Netherlands and be sure to visit Kinderdijk on your next trip to Amsterdam. 

27. Day Trip from Ljubljana to Bled (Slovenia)

By Anjali | TravelMelodies

T hink Slovenia and the image of turquoise lake with a tiny island sitting right in the heart of lake emerges in front of you – Well, Bled represents Slovenia. An icon in the true sense, Bled has to be a part of your Slovenia itinerary.

Owing to its proximity (just about 56 km or 34 miles) to Ljubljana, Bled makes for a great day trip from Slovenia’s capital in Central Europe. But that is, of course, not a reason that Bled attracts thousands of tourists every year. The reason is its other-worldly natural beauty.

A clear blue alpine lake at the foot of Julian Alps, a beautiful island right in the center of the lake, a castle perched on a cliff above the lake – Bled is like your fairytale story in motion.

There are tons of awesome things to do in Bled , but I still urge you to relax and admire the crystal clear waters while sitting at one of the benches around the lake or take a stroll around the lake (2 km stretch) or swim in its cold waters and then lie on a mat with your favorite book and a cup of coffee maybe.

You can ride a traditional Pletna boat to Bled island and ring a wishing bell at Our Lady of the Lake church because why not…wishes do come true!

Are you a sucker for exquisite sunsets and sunrises? Then, hike to Mala Osojnica to witness the iconic sunset or sunrise over Lake Bled.

It’s easy to reach Bled from Ljubljana with a host of bus and train options available. A self-drive takes approx. 4o minutes while a bus ride can take a little over an hour. You can also take a guided day tour to save time and hassle. The cost varies a bit depending upon the mode of transport you choose – a bus ticket costs nearly €12 and, a train ticket is for €10 for a roundtrip.

If you go by the guidebook, summer is the best time to visit Bled but, I’d argue as it’s the time of the year when the Alpine town is thronged with tourists, so it’s wise to plan during spring or fall.

Pin this complete list of Best Day trips across Europe for your Later Read

So, Next time if you are planning to visit any part of Europe, this comprehensive list of best day trips in Europe will surely give you enough options to choose from. And for your ultimate planning for Europe, you can refer to this blog on Budget Travel Guide to Europe. 

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Comments 28.

Europe truly is such a rich region- both in terms of nature and urban life. I especially enjoyed reading about the journey from Interlaken to Jungfraujoch. Your pictures helped elevate the experience as well!

Yup Europe has plenty of options that way ..thanks for the read

These are some really inspiring and exciting day trip options. How I wish, I knew about these when I was in UK in 2018. Would have had been so much awesome. Also thanks a ton for including my writeup about Sighisoara too. Europe is indeed incredible and all these day trips are unique in their own sense. Bookmarked this for the future.

This is easily one of the most handy articles we’ve found for day tripping – particularly that one on Strasbourg on the German border! Thank you for sharing! ?

Thank you if u feel so .. yes I tried to cover all at one go

yeah German landscapes are anyway heaven on earth indeed.

Wow, you are killing it Debs. Your recent posts are so good with lot of information and beautiful pics. This post is super awesome. Kudos.

Yes trying to make a all in one guide article for future reference

Thank you so much. Glad you liked it .

wowww…such a comprehensive guide. We are bookmarking it for sure. Which one is your favourite, Debjani?

I havent been to switzerland so definitely the day trip to Jungfraough is high on my list. Thanks for the read

What a great post! I love Europe for this possibility of traveling to another country for a day trip! I live in London now and i am definitely planning to explore whats around as i dont think ill be getting on a plane anytime soon

Yeah infact sitting here in India and remnicising all the good times in Europe makes me wanna go run there ..but given the situation for now it’s not possible .. thanks for the read

Looks like day trips are the only way to go these days! Europe is amazing because so many beautiful places are accessible within a day.

Indeed europe is amazing and endless

We love to find a spot in Europe and then day trip from there. So it was great to find your list of some of the best day trips. Some we have done. But I have saved this list for future reference. We are sorry to have never made the day trip from Paris to Giverny. Monet is one of my favourite painters and it would be great to see what inspired him. We often never leave London when we visit. So good to know that Winchester is a good option. Ireland is definitely on our list to return. Kilkenny sounds like a charming day trip from Dublin. And we were definitely sad to have missed Jungfraubahn on our last visit to Switzerland. All good things to consider when we are able to visit Europe again.

Yeah there are so many places I wanna go to ..while adding it to my blog I was actually adding to my wishlist too ..Europe is vast n big n beautiful ..Glad if the post could be a reference for u in future

I love the wonderful selections for day trips. This is wonderful for traveling through Europe with short periods of time in one location.

Day trips are worth doing and that too in Europe and you have listed some of the beautiful trips in this post. When I visited Prague, I missed day trip from Prague to Terezin and it really looks worth doing. Interlaken-Jungfrau day trip in Switzerland is really worth doing and I loved this trip as it is like a wonderland trip. Munich to Garmisch day trip is also I would suggest as it was my lifetime memory.

Yeah there are so many that I wanted to do actually ..German roads are killer for day trips actually

This is an awesome list of day trips. I wish I knew some of these when I was backpacking for 6 weeks and spent time in Portugal, Switzerland, Netherlands and London. I have only only been to the Golden Circle from Reykjavik. And none of the others you have mentioned. One more nice day trip from Lisbon is to Sintra. It’s a beautiful small town.

Absolutely a travelers delight. This list is just what I would require to plan. I have done a few from the list but there are so many more that I am looking forward to from this list. Ljubljana to Bled, Golden Circle from Reykjavik and Prague to Terezin would be few first.

Yeah so many places I need to visit too.. Europe is beautiful ..glad u found the post helpful

I have to admit that day trips in Europe are full with beautiful destinations. However, I personally prefer the ones where you can drive. That way you can stop at the places along the way as long as you want. Not just looking at small towns through the moving train. Day trip in Slovakia sounds great since you can drive from one end to another end in a day. And of course, a day trip to the Cliffs of Moher is a must-do while in Ireland. The nature is just amazingly beautiful.

This is a beautiful and delightful compilation. I have been to more than fifteen places but would love to visit rest of the places too. Ireland, Croatia, Romania are high on my list. I bet everyone is keeping their fingers crossed for things to return to normal. But what I really believe is that we should still not rush up into travel. Only small travel bubbles should start. Also these lessons of hygiene should not be forgotten after the pandemic is gone.

Yeah true we have to be extra careful

Such a wonderful post could only be produced by someone who knows Europe like the back of his/her palm. You have really scaled Europe like a hardcore traveler and presented them wonderfully. This post deserves to be bookmarked and followed whenever one decides to make a trip to any European country.

Thank you so much .. I have another budget planned tips for europe ..Shpuld u like to read that it’s in my blog .. Hope that helps in u becoming a pro as well 🙂

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Eurostar destinations

Explore Europe the easy way with Eurostar

City breaks in Europe

Explore Europe the easy way with Eurostar. Go direct from city centre to city centre by high-speed train on Eurostar routes between the UK, France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany. Simple, smart, and speedy. Whatever your city break desire or your dream destination, choosing Eurostar European city breaks means that you’ll arrive in your chosen location in comfort and style. Read on to discover some of the best European city breaks with Eurostar.

Top Eurostar destinations from London

Paris city breaks

Paris is all about people watching, as you drink coffee on a café terrace.

Amsterdam city breaks

There's so much to do and see in Holland's capital, you'll want to stay longer than a weekend.

Brussels city breaks

Beer, waffles, chocolate and culture, find out everything this iconic city has to offer.

Eurostar route map

Where does Eurostar go? Discover all our routes between the UK, France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany.

France city breaks

If you fancy a little time away from the crowds, head to the equally as interesting, if less packed, French cities that are ideal for city breaks. The beautiful culture-packed city of Lille is under 1 hour 30 minutes from London and makes the perfect short city break. To the East of France, you will find the stunning city of Strasbourg, also known as the Capital of Christmas. In the heart of France, discover historical and architectural landmarks in Lyon . Or take a longer break to the South of France and discover  Avignon with its Gothic palaces and cultural heritage or take a trip to the exuberantly multicultural port city of Marseille . France has so much to offer.

City breaks in Lille

At only 1 hr 30 mins from London, Lille is the perfect destination for a day trip or overnight stay.

Disneyland® Paris holidays

We all need a little magic in our lives and where better to rediscover your inner child?

City Breaks in Strasbourg

Whenever you go, Strasbourg is perfect for a short break or weekend away.

Marseille city breaks

Sun, sea, culture and gastronomy are all combined in this exciting city, just waiting to be explored.

Avignon city breaks

If you love food, culture, sun, wine and sightseeing then look no further.

Aix-en-Provence Holidays

Just a short drive from Marseille and the coast, this city of fountains and markets is a great holiday base.

Lyon city breaks

The gastronomic heart of France, this city has it all - history, culture, food and sunshine.

Belgium city breaks

Belgium’s capital Brussels  might just surprise you with its breathtaking mix of art, culture and UNESCO sites. Alternatively, why not lose yourself in the medieval masterpiece that is  Bruges , arguably the most photogenic city in the world? Another top pick just 30 minutes from Brussels is the medieval city of  Ghent , which offers a little peace and quiet away from the crowds.

Belgium isn’t just about a trip into the past.  Antwerp  is the coolest city in the country and caters for all your contemporary needs. Great shopping? Check. Top-notch food? Check. Diamond jewellery? Liège has far more to it than first meets the eye – it’s the cultural hub of Belgium’s Wallonia region, with museums and art on tap and a lively nightlife scene.

Antwerp city breaks

The coolest town in Belgium is well worth a shopping trip or a foodie break.

Bruges city breaks

Visit one of the prettiest towns in Europe and you won't be disappointed, whatever the time of year.

Liège city breaks

Liège is a city of wide boulevards, pockets of timber-frame architecture and pretty parks.

City breaks in the Netherlands

Why not wile away the hours amongst canals, winding walkways and some of the most famous museums in Europe on a weekend getaway in Amsterdam ? That’s not to forget the 600+ shops and markets, as well as the 1,500+ bars, restaurants and clubs.

But lively nightlife in the Netherlands isn’t just limited to Amsterdam. The city’s neighbour Rotterdam is ideal for European city breaks with a difference.

The famous port is also a vibrant university town, with great shopping and a buzzing night-time scene that caters to all-night partygoers, culture connoisseurs and jazz aficionados. And at just under four hours from London, it’s ideal for weekend breaks with friends.

City breaks in Rotterdam

It may not be as well known as Amsterdam, but Rotterdam is a party town with lots to offer.

London to Amsterdam trains

With its canals, cobblestone quays and buzzing art scene. Amsterdam is the perfect city for a weekend of culture.

City breaks in Germany

The atmospheric spa town of Aachen has drawn visitors for two millennia. Culture-buffs will enjoy wandering the narrow, winding streets; foodies will love popping into the many bars, outdoor restaurants and cafes below pretty pastel-painted buildings; and those looking for a restorative trip can dip into some of the hottest thermal springs in Central Europe. Düsseldorf is Germany’s wealthiest city and sits at the confluence of the Rhine and Düssel rivers. This elegant, clean and relatively small metropolis blends modern architecture, skyscrapers and an atmospheric old town.

Cologne city breaks

With a world-famous cathedral and a unique local beer scene, Cologne makes a perfect city break.

Aachen city breaks

This atmospheric spa town is home to Northern Europe's oldest UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Düsseldorf city breaks

From church spires and cobbled streets to rivers and abundant green space, this city has it all.

Book your accommodation too

City breaks to remember are made up of quick and easy travel, the dream location, and accommodation that ticks all your boxes. That's why we give you the opportunity to select your hotel and book the full trip with us.

Eurostar holidays

Sometimes a weekend away just isn’t enough. While a city break serves to whet the appetite, a longer break offers a tasting menu of treats. If you fancy hitting the slopes for skiing, snowboarding and a little après then head to the French Alps . For a longer break in France with Eurostar you can enjoy the coastal delights of the South of France or the wine and foodie treats of Bordeaux. Or why not opt for a longer stay for the whole family with Mickey and friends at Disneyland® Paris ? Whatever your holiday of choice, we’ll take you to your dream destination.

South of France holidays

There's a reason so many artists and celebrities flock to this part of the world. Find out why.

Bordeaux holidays

Wine, food, culture and shopping - all the ingredients for a fantastic holiday.

Ski holidays

Hop on the Eurostar and change trains in Paris for your ski holiday.

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Yes, we do! Eurostar European weekend breaks cater to all your short break requirements. Fancy a festive treat to visit some of the  best Christmas markets in Europe  in the likes of Brussels, Paris or Bruges? Is a Valentine’s break in the most romantic city in the world top of your travel plans? Are you itching to sample some of the best culinary delights from across the continent?

Where are the best city breaks for summer?

Fancy some sunshine? Book a ticket to Marseille or Avignon for a hot weekend break. Visit stunning beaches and access Cannes and Monaco quite easily. Whether you’re sunning yourself in the French Riviera or soaking up the culture, history and rosé in Provence, a weekend break in France never disappoints.

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10 Day Europe Tours & Trips

Filter for departure dates and price to find the right 10 day Europe tour with TourRadar. Choose from 3,958 trips with 33,601 customer reviews, that range from 8 up to 10 days.

250+ Europe 10 day tour packages with 33,601 reviews

• In-depth Cultural
• Coach / Bus

Britain and Ireland Delight (Summer, 10 Days)

"Wonderful tour guide and driver. Very professional" Manoj, traveled in June 2023

Britain and Ireland Highlights (10 Days)

"It was an amazing adventure!!!" Joy, traveled in June 2023

European Highlights

"This is very nice to see the places we want, to taste different foods, meeting new friends." Carmen, traveled in October 2023

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

From Copenhagen to Helsinki

"Great experince . Every thing was well planned and executed." Lalit, traveled in July 2022

• Christmas & New Year

Berlin and Imperial Capitals

"We are enjoying with everything" Khamphouy, traveled in April 2023

London to Rome Highlights (10 Days)

"What made the trip great was our fantastic tour Director Deborah Wiggin" Robert, traveled in June 2023

Essential Britain & Ireland

"Everything was planned and organised professionally. Absolutely hassle free travelling." Sarah, traveled in May 2018

Rome to London Quest (Summer, 10 Days)

"Great experience, got to see a lot in a small duration. Remi provided a fun experience." Yasmin, traveled in May 2019

European Traveller (10 Days)

"The travel was perfect for our first trip to Europe. The coach was fun and comfortable, and the entire trip was very organized." Erwin, traveled in September 2017

Sicilian Secrets - Tour of Sicily 10 days from Palermo 2024

"The price was very good considering you had dinners included. I would use Tourradar again." Linda, traveled in September 2022

Balkan Discovery (4 Star Hotels)

"All of the places we visited were amazing, and the tour was an amazing and emotionally moving experience." Margaret, traveled in March 2024

• $150 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Timeless Cities in Modern Transportation: Turkey Unleashed 10 Day Tour

"Very informative, well planned and organized. Really enjoyed every single moment of it." Ludmila, traveled in May 2023

Grand Classical Tour Of Greece plus Mani and Monemvasia (Small group - In depth culture/Historical/Nature/Culinary guided tour)

"Greece is an amazing country - so the tour was really engrossing." Dina, traveled in May 2023

Magic Carpet Tour

"Very professional tour guide" Peter, traveled in May 2023

Best of Western Europe

"The stop in Swarovski was a waste of time" Ian, traveled in October 2023

What people love about 10 Day Europe Tours

Trip was very good and gave an overall view of the countries. Tour guide was excellent! She gave us background of cities we visited and history of the area. Only criticism I have is that the bus seats were narrow and cramped for leg room. Since we spent so much time riding, improvement in this area would make the trip more enjoyable.

Very professional company. This tour is more suited for older individuals who don’t like walking around much. I took my 21-year-old and 13-year-old. The long hours spent on the bus was too much for them. They said the tour was “cool@, but not what they considered “fun”.

This was a very fast paced highlight tour of Europe. This is a good sampler to see what is worth seeing on an extended trip. The guide and driver were excellent, and the tour was well thought out. It was a lot of time spent on the bus, but that was a good way to see what the countries really look like.

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7 Days in Europe: 25 Exciting Itineraries for Your One Week Europe Trip!

Like this article? Share it with your friends!

Seven days in Europe may seem like too short a time, but if you are looking to do a quick vacation, get ready to be surprised by how many exciting one-week Europe trips you can do!

Europe is made up of so many countries, big and small, that you can build any number of one-week itineraries.

Budget airlines and a robust network of trains (and buses, in some cases), make it relatively convenient to hop to more than one destination, even in the short span of 7 days in Europe.

While some of our 7 day Europe itinerary ideas do involve multiple bases, we also have suggestions for one or two bases with day trips if you dislike moving too much from one place to another.

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In this article, we’ve rounded up an eclectic collection of one-week Europe itineraries, from bucket-list city combinations like London and Paris to must-visit regions like Tuscany and lesser visited single countries like the stunningly beautiful Montenegro.

If you are planning a two-week (or longer!) Europe trip, many of these itineraries can easily be combined for an extended European vacation.

On a recent trip to Europe, we strung together a week each in Montenegro and Slovenia with a longer stay in Croatia. On an earlier trip, we did one week each in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.

Excited? Let’s get started discovering the very best 7-day Europe trip itineraries!

TABLE OF CONTENTS 7-Day Europe Itineraries: City Hopping One Week Europe Trips: Single City + Day Trips One Week in Europe: Must-Visit Regions 7 Days in Europe: Single Country Trips

7-day europe itineraries: city hopping, venice-florence-rome.

Italy is a bucket-list destination for many travelers, and the three iconic cities of Venice, Florence, and Rome make for a dream trip filled with history, charm, art and architecture, and fabulous food, drink, and gelato.

With just 7 days, we suggest just hitting the high spots in each city, so you leave yourself some time to just walk around the historic centers, or relax in the piazzas, to savor the ambience.

In Venice , visit St. Mark’s Basilica, take a tour of the Doge’s Palace, and ascend to the top of the campanile (there’s a lift!) for views over Venice. This popular tour offers skip-the-line access to both St. Mark’s and the Doge’s Palace.

Do a gondola ride, if that’s on your wish-list for Venice, or ride the vaporetto along the Grand Canal to see the sights from the water.

Get lost in the lesser-visited districts to experience the charm of a quieter Venice.

In Florence , book a time to climb to the cupola of the Duomo di Firenze: this tour lets you climb either up to the terraces or to the top of the dome.

See Michelangelo’s David in the Accademia Gallery, or the incredible masterpieces in the Galleria Uffizi.

Hit some of the famous gelato shops in Florence. And be sure to cross the historic Ponte Vecchio and take in the sunset from Piazzale Michelangelo: it’s one of the best things to do in Tuscany !

A tour of the Colosseum , along with the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, is a must in Rome .

Walk the historic center to take in the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps, the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, and many other famous sights. An after-dark walk is magical!

Strolling Rome’s centro storico allows you to take in some of the best free things to do in Rome !

Visit the magnificent St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, and take in the views from the cupola of the dome.

Do a guided tour of the Vatican Museums . Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel will take your breath away, but there are numerous other treasures to view as well: the Raphael Rooms and the Spiral Staircase are must-sees.

Foodies should definitely book a food walking tour in Rome , to sample culinary delights as you stroll the historic center.

In each city, be sure to book guided tours or skip-the-line tickets (timed, if available) in advance, to conserve time.

Getting In and Out

Fly into the Marco Polo Airport in Venice and out of the Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport in Rome.

Take the high-speed train from Venice to Florence (journey time is 2 hours and 15 minutes) and the fast train from Florence to Rome (journey time is about 1 hour and 30 minutes).

Suggested Itinerary at a Glance

Days 1-2: Arrive in Venice, explore Venice Days 3-4: Arrive in Florence, explore Florence Days 5-6: Arrive in Rome, explore Rome Day 7: Depart

Suggested by us

London-Paris

A very popular combination for a first trip across the pond, London and Paris make for a fabulous 7 days in Europe.

The two cities have much to offer, from historic landmarks and must-visit neighborhoods to great dining and special experiences.

In London, one of Europe’s top cities , start by exploring Westminster, which is a city unto itself in Central London. Here you will find the Palace of Westminster and Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, and Buckingham Palace. Take a ride on the London Eye!

On day two, visit the Tower of London, where you can see the Crown Jewels: buy tickets in advance! Step into St. Paul’s Cathedral, snap the perfect photo of beautiful Tower Bridge, and take in the views from the Shard.

On your last day in London, you can spend more time on sights you missed on days 1 and 2, or explore Kensington, where you will find Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens, several museums, and more.

Be sure to schedule afternoon tea at one of the many top spots!

On your first day in Paris, visit Sainte-Chapelle, Notre Dame (currently being restored following a fire in 2019), and Sacré-Cœur. Explore charming Montmartre, and take a stroll by the Seine, or a cruise.

If you enjoy museums, the Musee d’Orsay is a must!

On day two, visit the Eiffel Tower: be sure to book elevator tickets in advance. Do a guided tour of the Louvre to see the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo , stroll the Champs-Élysées, and take in the views from the Arc de Triomphe.

On your final day in Paris, you can continue to explore the city, catching up on sights you haven’t seen yet, or take a day trip to Versailles. The palace and gardens are simply breathtaking!

In each city, book guided tours or skip-the-line tickets in advance, to conserve time.

Both London and Paris have international airports, making it easy to get in and out.

Take the Eurostar from London to Paris. The journey time is a little over two hours, and it will drop you in the heart of Paris.

Days 1-3: Arrive in London, explore London Days 4-6: Arrive in Paris, explore Paris Day 7: Depart

Considering a 10-day Europe trip? Check out our round-up of 10-day Europe trip itineraries !

Madrid-barcelona.

Spain’s capital, Madrid, and iconic Barcelona combine perfectly for a trip steeped in art, culture, history, and great food and drink.

Throw in a day trip to historic Toledo, and you’ve got a wonderful 7-day Europe itinerary without a lot of moving around.

In Madrid, the golden triangle of art is a must-do. Made up of Madrid’s premier museums: Prado Museum, Reina Sofía Art Centre, and the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, this trio features masterpieces from many renowned artists.

Do a walking tour through the historic core of Madrid. The magnificent Royal Palace is a must-visit, with its stunning tapestries and gorgeous chandeliers. Retiro Park is a wonderful green space, with water features and the beautiful Crystal Palace.

Be sure to enjoy lots of tapas and catch a flamenco performance during your 3 days in Madrid .

Historic Toledo, known as “The City of Three Cultures,” is just a short bus ride, and makes for one of the best day trips from Madrid .

Wander the streets to admire the architecture, visit the beautiful cathedral, tour the El Greco Museum, and snap photos of the picturesque bridges. You can also do a guided tour .

Next, it’s on to Barcelona ! Spend your first day in the city admiring the works of Gaudi: from the impossibly magnificent Sagrada Familia to Casa Milà and Casa Batlló. Plan to be at Park Güell in the late afternoon so you can enjoy sunset here.

On Day 2, check out La Boqueria, Barcelona’s oldest market and also its most renowned. Stroll Las Ramblas. Explore the Gothic Quarter, where you can visit the Picasso Museum. The Cathedral of Barcelona is also nearby.

On your last day in Barcelona, visit more fun attractions in the city, from the museums on Montjuic Hill and Montjuic Castle to the summit of Tibidabo Mountain for panoramic views.

Both Madrid and Barcelona have international airports, making it a breeze to get in and out.

Take the AVE train from Madrid to Barcelona. The journey time is 2.5 hours. Book your tickets in advance, the early departures may sell out. We use Omio to book train and bus travel in Europe.

Days 1-2: Arrive in Madrid, explore Madrid Day 3: Day trip from Madrid to Toledo Days 4-6: Arrive in Barcelona, explore Barcelona Day 7: Depart

Copenhagen-Stockholm

On this exciting 7-day Europe itinerary, you’ll explore two gorgeous Scandinavian capitals: Copenhagen and Stockholm. With rich histories, magnificent landmarks, and great food and drink, the two cities deserve spots on any Scandinavia itinerary .

Copenhagen is a city of palaces and castles. Watch the changing of the guard at Amalienborg Palace, and view the Danish crown jewels at Rosenborg Castle. At Christiansborg Palace, admire the Queen’s tapestries, which depict 1,100 years of Danish history.

Climb to the top of the Round Tower for views over the city. Pose for a photo with the statue of The Little Mermaid. Stroll Strøget, Copenhagen’s main shopping street. Visit Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen’s amusement park, which is said to have inspired Walt Disney.

Enjoy the colorful facades and lively ambience of Nyhavn, the city’s historic waterfront. A canal cruise from Nyhavn is a wonderful way to experience the city.

You can also explore around the city on one of many day trips from Copenhagen . We did this fabulous tour , which includes Roskilde, Frederiksborg, and Kronborg.

Sweden’s stunning capital, Stockholm, is built on fourteen islands. One of the best things to do in Stockholm is to ascend to the top of the tower at City Hall for panoramic 360-degree views.

There are several wonderful museums in Stockholm, but one you won’t want to miss is the Vasa Museum, where you can see the restored 17th century ship that sank on its maiden voyage.

Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s spectacular Old Town, is full of must-see landmarks, from the Stockholm Cathedral to the Royal Palace. The main square, Stortorget, features beautiful architecture. This excellent guided tour combines Gamla Stan with the Vasa Museum.

Don’t miss touring the local train stations: Stockholm’s subway art has been called the longest art gallery in the world. And take the ferry to Drottningholm Palace , where you can tour not only the palace but also the beautiful grounds.

Both Copenhagen and Stockholm have international airports, so you can fly in and out with ease.

The two cities are connected by train. The fast train takes just over 5 hours.

Days 1-3: Arrive in Copenhagen, explore Copenhagen Days 4-6: Arrive in Stockholm, explore Stockholm Day 7: Depart

Paris-Brussels-Berlin

If you are looking for a 7-day itinerary for Europe highlighting major cities, choose to visit Paris, Brussels, and Berlin!

This itinerary provides a good mix of food, architecture, and history and is a perfect introduction to Western Europe, so it’s a must-do for first-timers traveling to Europe.

Plan to spend two days in Paris, two days in Brussels , and two days in Berlin.

Paris is a city of love and light. Visit the Eiffel Tower by day and by night, and enjoy the incredible views from the Arc de Triomphe. See the famous Mona Lisa and more at the Louvre.

Relax at a cafe while enjoying yummy French pastries. Take a cruise down the Seine River, and see attractions like Notre Dame and the Eiffel Tower from the water.  

Brussels is a perfect place for food and beautiful architecture. Visit Grand Place and eat Belgian waffles. Stroll through Brussels Park, right next to the Royal Palace. Explore the underground ruins of Coudenberg, beneath modern Brussels. 

Berlin is a city for history enthusiasts. See the parts of the Berlin Wall that are still standing. Visit one of the many museums on Museum Island.

Be moved when visiting historical monuments such as the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe. Walk under the famous Brandenburg Gate, and take a walking tour of the city’s most important sites. 

Fly into Paris and out of Berlin.

To get from one destination to the next, you can choose to fly or ride the train.

If taking the train, take the overnight train from Brussels to Berlin so you can save on travel time and accommodations by combining them into one.

Days 1-2: Arrive in Paris, explore Paris Days 3-4: Arrive in Brussels, explore Brussels Days 5-6: Arrive in Berlin, explore Berlin Day 7: Depart

Suggested by Melissa of My Beautiful Passport

London-Edinburgh

If you’re looking for awesome 7-day Europe itinerary ideas, then exploring the cities of London and Edinburgh on a 7-day Europe trip is a must!

Both cities offer so much in terms of attractions, culture, and food spots! You’ll get to see the best of the United Kingdom by visiting these two destinations, as they have incredible architecture and many historic sites.

The capital of the United Kingdom, London is a bucket-list destination. There are endless attractions in the iconic city, but the most famous include Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, the London Eye, and the Tower of London. 

Snap a photo of the Tower Bridge. Enjoy a meal with a view at The Shard. Visit the British Museum: its collection is one of the largest in the world. Have afternoon tea!

Edinburgh is one of the most beautiful cities in the world and the capital of Scotland. 

Some of the most popular spots to visit include Arthur’s Seat, the remnants of an extinct volcano, and Edinburgh Castle, which offers stunning views from the ramparts.

Other historic sights include Calton Hill and the Royal Mile. Edinburgh Old Town makes for a wonderful stroll.

You’ll also want to head to the coastal suburb of Portobello, and spend some time on the beach.

Fly into London, one of the main entry points into the UK, with six major airports including Gatwick, Heathrow, and Stanstead. Fly out of Edinburgh Airport.

To get to Edinburgh from London, take a train. The journey takes between 4.5 – 5.5 hours depending on which type of service you choose. 

Days 1-3: Arrive in London, explore London Days 4-6: Arrive in Edinburgh, explore Edinburgh Day 7: Depart

Suggested by Jack and Abbie of A Couples Calling

Munich-Salzburg

This 7-day itinerary is a must-do in Europe for the rich history, culture, and food and drink. Bavaria is one of the most beautiful parts of Germany, and Salzburg one of the most visited destinations in Austria.

In Munich , try  traditional Munich food  like white sausage, pretzels and beer. Catch the Glockenspiel show in Marienplatz Square and explore English Garden Park, one of the largest urban parks in Europe.  

Tour the Residenz, the gorgeous former royal palace of the Wittelsbach monarchs of Bavaria. The Nymphenburg Palace is another beautiful palace complex, with a carriage museum and lovely gardens and grounds.

Take a Munich walking tour. This popular tour explores the sites that saw one of the darkest events in human history: the rise of Adolf Hitler and the Third Reich.

On Day 3, do a day trip to Nuremberg , where you can explore the old town within the city walls, watched over by the Nuremberg Castle. Discover picturesque streets, bridges, and buildings.

Take a sobering excursion to Nuremberg’s Palace of Justice, where the infamous Nuremberg Trials took place and 21 leading Nazis stood trial. It is now a museum: you can visit Courtroom 600, where the trials happened.

On Day 4, take a day trip to visit the fairy tale Neuschwanstein Castle and Linderhof Palace!

Salzburg is the fourth-largest city in Austria and a place of musical wonders. When in Salzburg, learn about the invention of the Christmas carol, Silent Night , and walk in the footsteps of Salzburg’s most famous son, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, from his childhood home to the museum and all of the places named in his memory. 

Also be sure to take a guided tour to discover the filming locations for The Sound of Music , which was set in Salzburg and filmed here.

Fly into Munich Airport, and out of Salzburg Airport. Salzburg is well connected with major European travel hubs for onward flights to other parts of the world.

To travel between the cities, take the train. The journey from Munich to Salzburg is just under two hours.

Days 1-2: Arrive in Munich, explore Munich Day 3: Day trip from Munich to Nuremberg Day 4: Day trip from Munich to Neuschwanstein Castle Days 5-6: Arrive in Salzburg, explore Salzburg Day 7: Depart

Suggested by Shireen of The Happy Days Travels

Lisbon-Nazare-Porto

With vibrant cities, lovely villages, stunning beaches and incredible food, it’s easy to love Portugal. A trip from Lisbon to Porto with a stop at seaside Nazare along the way will show you the best the country has to offer.

Going on this one-week Europe trip is a breeze with short distances and excellent transportation options.

Start your Portugal trip by spending three days in the capital, Lisbon.

Hop on board tram number 28 to see the city’s most iconic sights and viewpoints. For the best views of Lisbon, don’t miss the Miradouro das Porta do Sol or the Santa Justa elevator.

Spend the next day in Belem visiting the iconic Belem Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, and the Monument of the Discoveries and gorging on egg tarts at the Pasteis de Belem bakery.

On day three, take a day trip to Sintra to see the stunning palaces, mansions and gardens. The Pena Palace is a must, of course, but also consider Quinta de Regaleira and the Palácio Nacional de Sintra.

Next, head north along the coast to seaside  Nazare . Spend the day on the beach and eat some of the country’s best seafood.

Praia do Norte is a wild beach with massive waves, perfect for long walks or surfing.

Lovely Porto is where your trip ends. But not before seeing this smashing city.

Spend one day exploring downtown Porto, visiting the must-sees like Livraria Lello (the Harry Potter bookshop!), Sao Bento Station and tile-covered churches.

On your last day, head across the Douro River to tour the port wine cellars and wine bars in the Gaia neighborhood.

Fly into Lisbon Airport, and out of Porto Airport.

To travel between the cities, take the bus. The journey from Lisbon to Nazares takes about two hours, and the journey from Nazares to Porto is about 3.5 hours.

If you dislike moving too much, you can visit Nazare on a day trip from Lisbon, and then take the train from Lisbon to Porto. The journey is just under 3 hours.

Days 1-2: Arrive in Lisbon, explore Lisbon Day 3: Day trip from Lisbon to Sintra Day 4: Arrive in Nazares, explore Nazares Days 5-6: Arrive in Porto, explore Porto Day 7: Depart

Suggested by De Wet of Museum of Wander

Bruges-Ghent-Antwerp-Amsterdam

When you’re visiting Belgium for the first time, it’s a great idea to put three of the  best places to see in Belgium  into your itinerary: Antwerp, Ghent and Bruges.

Add in Amsterdam for a wonderful week in Europe!

Start your trip in Amsterdam. Spend an active day in the capital of the Netherlands: enjoy a boat tour on the canals, visit the beautiful tulips at Keukenhof (in season) or the floating flower market, and learn all about WWII in Anne Frank’s house.

Next stop: Antwerp. This city is all about fashion and diamonds, but also offers a charming historic center and some stunning museums such as Het Rubenshuis, and Het Mas, that has an awesome viewpoint.

After two days exploring Antwerp, make a day trip to nearby Ghent, only one hour away by train.

The historic center of Ghent feels like a charming town rather than a city but without the large crowds you’ll see in Bruges. Places you definitely shouldn’t miss are Het Gravensteen (with its collection of torture equipment) and the neighborhood Het Patershol.

Also, do like the locals do and have a picnic on the banks of the river at the Graslei.

For the last days of your trip, move to Bruges. It’s the most touristic place in Belgium but for good reason. A visit to Bruges will feel like stepping back in time. Definitely head to the Beguinage, the Belfry, and The Historium.

Fly into Amsterdam Airport, and out of Ostend-Bruges International Airport.

To travel between the cities, take the train. The direct train from Amsterdam to Antwerp takes 1 hour and 45 minutes. The train from Antwerp to Bruges takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Day 1: Arrive in Amsterdam, explore Amsterdam Day 2-3: Arrive in Antwerp, explore Antwerp Day 4: Do a day trip from Antwerp to Ghent Days 5-6: Arrive in Bruges, explore Bruges Day 7: Depart

Suggested by Barbara of Next Stop Belgium

Prague-Vienna-Budapest

For a week sampling some of Central Europe’s best cities, with incredible architecture and their own, very distinct personalities, plan a trip exploring Prague, Vienna, and Budapest.

Each of these three cities has much to offer, so on this whirlwind trip, plan to focus on just a few highlights in each city.

These cities also make for a great break in the winter in Europe , because they host some of the most visit-worthy Christmas markets in Europe !

Kick off your 7-day Europe trip in Prague by exploring some of its historic architecture, like the Charles Bridge or Prague Castle.

Wander the Old Town Square, where you can see the famous Astronomical Clock, tour the old Jewish Ghetto, or take a cruise on the Vltava River.

Of course, no trip to Prague would be complete without trying out its lively nightlife. For a mellow experience, try a Prague beer spa .

Next, travel to Vienna , where you’ll spend your time indulging in Vienna’s high culture, like taking in arias at the Vienna State Opera, perusing the enormous collection of artwork at the Belvedere Museum, and marveling at the design of Schönbrunn Palace.

The Hofburg Palace and St. Stephen’s Cathedral are other gems to visit in Vienna’s historic center. And you have to try Sachertorte at Cafe Sacher or Cafe Demel!

End your trip in Budapest, a city that mixes grandiose design with bohemian whimsy.

Spend time here enjoying its extravagant thermal baths, like the Gellért Spa, and gawking at the opulent architecture of the Parliament Building and Fisherman’s Bastion.

Fly into Prague’s Václav Havel Airport, and depart from Budapest Airport.

To travel between the cities, take the train. The journey from Prague to Vienna by high-speed train is about 4 hours and 30 minutes, and the journey from Vienna to Budapest is 2 hours and 20 minutes.

Days 1-2: Arrive in Prague, explore Prague Days 3-4: Arrive in Vienna, explore Vienna Days 5-6: Arrive in Budapest, explore Budapest Day 7: Depart

Suggested by Jessica of Uprooted Traveler

Vilnius-Riga-Tallinn

The Baltics are one of the most underrated holiday destinations in Europe.

This  Eastern Europe  region consists of the three small countries of Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia. They are affordable, offer unique attractions, and are relatively free from big crowds, especially in the shoulder seasons.

Start your trip in Vilnius, the capital city of Lithuania. Here, you can see historical sites such as the KGB Museum, a prison camp for Lithuanians during World War II. Hike the small hill to the Three Crosses Monument and the Gediminas Castle Tower.

You can take a day trip to the famous Trakai Castle, which is surrounded by a lake. Coming during winter means you can walk on the frozen lake.

Next stop: Riga, Latvia! During summer, locals and tourists flock to the Lielipe Beach.

Walk around the city and visit the House of the Black Head, Riga Central Market, and The Freedom Monument.

Finally, head to Tallinn, the capital of Estonia. It has a beautiful Old Town!

The most famous spots here are the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the Lennusadan (a maritime museum featuring a 1560s sunken ship), and the Estonian Open Air Museum, which showcases the history and traditions of the country.

Both Vilnius and Tallinn have international airports, making it easy to get in and out.

From Vilnius, you can take a flight, train, or bus to Riga. From Riga, fly to Tallinn or take the bus.

The bus (or train) from Vilnius to Riga takes about 4 hours, and the bus from Riga to Tallinn takes about 4.5 hours.

Days 1-2: Arrive in Vilnius, explore Vilnius Days 3-4: Arrive in Riga, explore Riga Days 5-6: Arrive in Tallinn, explore Tallinn Day 7: Depart

Suggested by Elizabeth of Three Week Traveller

Paris-Avignon-Arles-Lyon

France is blessed with many amazing cities, and this itinerary is an excellent sampler of France’s charms. All the cities are connected by rail, so relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Start off in Paris. Visit iconic monuments such as the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe. Immerse yourself in Paris’ world-class museums, such as the Louvre and the Musée D’Orsay.  

Your next stop is Avignon. Avignon is historically important as the 14 th  century seat of the papacy. Visiting the Palais des Papes (a UNESCO World Heritage site) is one of the best  things to do in Avignon .  

Arles is a quick trip from Avignon and is famous for its many Roman ruins. Spend the day exploring the Arènes d’Arles, the Roman Theater, and the Alyscamps, a Roman necropolis.   

Your final stop is Lyon. Explore the traboules, Lyon’s unique secret passageways. And don’t miss the incredible trompe-l’oeil murals, such as the Mur des Canuts. 

Return to Paris and enjoy one more day in the City of Light. 

On this one-week Europe itinerary, you’ll start and end in Paris, with international airports that make getting in and out easy.

All the cities on this itinerary are connected by rail.

From Paris to Avignon, the high-speed train takes about 3 hours. Avignon to Arles is just 20 minutes by train.

The journey from Avignon to Lyon is just under one hour. The high-speed train from Lyon to Paris takes about 2 hours.

Days 1-2: Arrive in Paris, explore Paris Day 3: Arrive in Avignon, explore Avignon Day 4: Day trip from Avignon to Arles Day 5: Arrive in Lyon, explore Lyon Day 6: Return to Paris, explore Paris Day 7: Depart

Suggested by Lisa of Waves and Cobblestones

One Week Europe Trips: Single City with Day Trips

Rome, italy + day trips.

There are so many exciting things to do in Rome that you could spend your entire one-week Europe trip enjoying the many marvelous sights here and indulging in the pasta dishes for which the city is famed.

But it is also near enough to other epic Italian destinations that you could add in a few day trips from Rome to round out your Italian holiday, without having to move.

Start your itinerary with 3 days in Rome , taking in the major sights in the city.

On your first day, visit the most famous sites of ancient Rome: the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill. Walk through the historic center to admire the Pantheon and the Spanish Steps, and throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain.

Vatican City should be your focus on the next day. Tour the magnificent St. Peter’s Basilica, ascend to the top of the dome for panoramic views over Rome, and take in all the fabulous art in the Vatican Museums.

On your third day in Rome, spend some time in charming Trastevere, and visit some of Rome’s beautiful churches: the Basilica of St. John in the Lateran is gorgeous! The Borghese Gallery is another must-visit, and its gardens are a great stroll.

For an easy day trip from Rome you can do on your own, consider Tivoli, home to two stunning villas: Hadrian’s Villa and the Villa d’Este. Another option is the charming hill town of Orvieto .

To visit the Amalfi Coast and Pompeii on a day trip from Rome, we suggest a guided tour. This very popular tour   combines both. It’s a long day, but an efficient way to sample the beautiful coast on a short trip to Europe.

If you’d like to add in another city, Florence is within day-trip distance of Rome, and while you will not see and do everything Florence has to offer, you can certainly hit the highlights and stroll the beautiful historic center.

On this one-week Europe trip itinerary, you’ll be based in Rome the entire time.

Rome’s international airport makes it easy to fly in and out.

Days 1-3: Arrive in Rome, explore Rome Day 4: Day trip from Rome to Florence Day 5: Day trip from Rome to Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast by guided tour Day 6: Day trip from Rome to Tivoli or Orvieto Day 7: Depart

Barcelona, Spain + day Trips

With fabulous architecture and great food and drink, Barcelona is an epic destination in its own right. But it is also a great base from which to explore the Costa Brava and other parts of Catalonia on day trips.

On your first day in Barcelona, visit La Sagrada Familia, Antonio Gaudi’s most famous work. Construction began in 1882, and the church is still under construction! Then tour the Palau de Musica Catalana and the Picasso Museum, and finish at Park Guell for sunset.

On day two, see more of Gaudi’s work at Casa Milà and Casa Batlló. Then visit the Boqueria Market and stroll Las Ramblas: join a tapas tour . Explore the Barri Gòtic, where you can also visit the Barcelona Cathedral.

On your final day of Barcelona sightseeing, visit the Montjuic Castle, gawk at Camp Nou, the largest stadium in Europe, and spend some time at La Barceloneta Beach.

Your first day trip from Barcelona should be to Montserrat, where a mountaintop monastery offers spectacular views over Catalonia. Montserrat is one of the most popular day trips from Barcelona .

This highly-rated full day tour to Monserrat includes a winery stop for lunch and wine tasting.

Next, explore Girona and the scenic villages of the Costa Brava. You can rent a car and do it independently, or, if you’d rather sit back and enjoy the views, join a tour .

On your final day, take a day trip to historic Tarragona, where you can tour many ruins from Roman times, including an amphitheater, a necropolis, and remnants of the Forum.

Barcelona’s international airport makes it a breeze to fly in and out.

Days 1-3: Arrive in Barcelona, explore Barcelona Day 4: Day trip from Barcelona to Montserrat Day 5: Day trip from Barcelona to Girona and the Costa Brava Day 6: Day trip from Barcelona to Tarragona Day 7: Depart

One Week in Europe: Famous Regions

Tuscany, italy.

One of the most beautiful parts of Italy, Tuscany is perfect for a one-week visit to Europe. In one week, you can explore Florence, known as the Cradle of the Renaissance, and visit the top hilltop towns in the region.

You can do a road trip through Tuscany, but we did it with two bases: Florence and Siena, to avoid packing and unpacking every day, and that’s the way we’ve described it here. We have a detailed 7-day Tuscany itinerary you can follow.

On days one and two, explore Florence. Visit the Duomo di Firenze, climbing to the top of the dome if you are up for the challenge, admire the original David at the Accademia Gallery, and wander the historic center.

If you enjoy art, you’ll be spoiled for choice in Florence, but a visit to the Galleria degli Uffizi should definitely be at the top of your list. Cross the River Arno via the historic Ponte Vecchio and take in sunset from Piazzale Michelangelo.

On day 3, do a day trip to Pisa and Lucca. Pisa’s Field of Miracles includes the Leaning Tower, and walking (or biking) Lucca’s walls is a delight. You can visit independently or on a guided tour.

On day 4, visit San Gimignano and Volterra. San Gimignano is famous for its many medieval towers, and Volterra for its alabaster. You’ll enjoy wandering both picturesque towns.

On day 5, you’ll travel to Siena . Siena’s duomo is one of the prettiest we’ve seen in all of Italy. Its Piazza del Campo is enormous and actually hosts the Palio, a horse race. Climb to the top of the Torre del Mangia for panoramas.

On your final day in Tuscany, do a tour of the Val d’Orcia , where the charming hill towns of Montalcino, Pienza, and Montepulciano will captivate you.

Take a late evening train back to Florence, or return the following morning, if your flight is later in the day.

Florence has an international airport, making it easy to get in and out. Some travelers to Tuscany also fly in and out of Pisa.

Days 1-2: Arrive in Florence, explore Florence Day 3: Day trip from Florence to Pisa and Lucca Day 4: Day trip from Florence to San Gimignano and Volterra Day 5: Arrive in Siena, explore Siena Day 6: Tour the Val d’Orcia from Siena, return to Florence Day 7: Depart

Andalusia, Spain

Visit some of the most beautiful cities in Southern Spain on this 7-day Europe trip to Andalusia. The land of flamenco and tapas, Andalusia is lively, entertaining, and exciting: you won’t want to leave!

Start your Andalusia adventure in the port city of Malaga . Visit the Alcazaba and take in the views from the Gibralfaro. Stroll the waterfront and the old town and visit the Picasso Museum.

On the next day, take a day trip to some of the pretty white villages of Andalusia. You can visit Frigiliana and Nerja, located close to each other, or Ronda and Setenil de las Bodegas. Travel to Granada in the late evening.

Granada is home to the world-famous Alhambra Palace. Tour the magnificent complex, which includes the breathtaking Nasrid Palaces and the Generalife Gardens, and wander the historic neighborhoods of Albaicin and Sacromonte.

On day four, travel to Seville , the Andalusian capital, where you will spend three days. One of the top things to do in Seville is touring the Royal Alcazar , with its Mudejar architecture, and its stunning gardens.

Step inside the Seville Cathedral, take in the views from La Giralda, the bell tower, and visit the impressive Plaza de España.

Take a day trip from Seville to Cordoba , where you can marvel at the beautiful red-and-white arches in the Mezquita!

Other top things to do in Cordoba include walking the Roman Bridge, and touring the Jewish Quarter.

Fly into the international airport in Malaga, and fly out of the international airport in Seville.

From Malaga to Granada, take the fast train. The journey time is a little over one hour.

From Granada to Seville, the fast train takes about 2 hours and 20 minutes.

If you prefer, you can visit Granada for the day from Malaga, and then travel directly from Malaga to Seville. The fastest trains take about 2 hours. We think seeing the Alhambra at sunset from the Albaicin is worth an early wake-up call the next morning!

Day 1: Arrive in Malaga, explore Malaga Day 2: Day trip from Malaga to Nerja + Frigiliana or Ronda + Setenil de las Bodegas, travel to Granada Day 3: Explore Granada Days 4 and 5: Travel to Seville, explore Seville Day 6: Day trip from Seville to Cordoba Day 7: Depart

The French Riviera

Discover the most glamorous side of the French Mediterranean by taking a road trip from Saint-Tropez to Monaco. Cruising the Côte d’Azur gives you the opportunity to discover iconic cities, perched villages, scenic beaches and picture-perfect panoramas.

The beauty of the French Riviera has inspired some of the world’s most famous poets and painters. This 7-day French Riviera itinerary allows you to follow in their footsteps.

Spend day one in iconic Saint-Tropez, where you will want to wander the streets of the Old Town, called La Ponche. Spend a lazy afternoon at Pampelonne Beach before having cocktails at the yacht-lined marina.

Your next stop is Cannes. Visit the Forville market, cruise the famous Croisette or take a ferry to the Lérins islands.

Next up is low-key Antibes where you can hike the meandering coastal trail to discover the scenic Cap d’Antibes peninsula.

On day four, you drive inland to reach Saint Paul de Vence, an idyllic medieval village lined with art galleries. Watch the sunset from the town’s ramparts before trying some local delicacies in one of the convivial restaurants.

From there, head to lively Nice where you can stroll the famous Promenade d’Anglais or visit the flower market at Cours Saleya in the heart of the Old Town called Vieux Nice.

Day six is spent in Monaco. Watch the changing of the guards in front of the Palais Princier, have lunch at the La Condamine area or visit the world-renowned casino of Monte Carlo.

Fly into the international airport of Toulon, where you can pick up your rental car. From Toulon, the drive to St. Tropez is about one hour.

Fly out of the international airport in Nice. From Monaco, the drive to Nice is about 25 minutes.

Day 1: Arrive in St. Tropez, explore St. Tropez Day 2: Arrive in Cannes, explore Cannes Day 3: Arrive in Antibes, explore Antibes Day 4: Arrive in Saint Paul de Vence, explore Saint Paul de Vence Day 5: Arrive in Nice, explore Nice Day 6: Arrive in Monaco, explore Monaco Day 7: Depart

Suggested by Sarah of CosmopoliClan

The Algarve, Portugal

The Algarve region in southern Portugal is the perfect place for a one-week trip. The area is famous for its spectacular beaches, picturesque cliffs, turquoise-colored water, and charming coastal towns.

The Algarve offers a great variety of outdoor activities such as kayaking, hiking, and surfing, and makes for a wonderful road trip.

This itinerary starts in the small town of Sagres. Cabo de S. Vicente, the most southwestern point of continental Europe and the Fort of Sagres are two not-to-miss places here. Tonel Beach in Sagres is a popular surfing spot.

From Sagres, continue along the coast to Lagos, one of the most popular holiday towns in the Algarve. You can spend two days here.

There are many amazing things to do in Lagos . Dona Ana Beach, Porto de Mós Beach, Praia do Camilo, Ponta da Piedade, the Old Town, and the Marina de Lagos are must-visit places.

After Lagos, head to Carvoeiro, another beautiful beach town in the Algarve, where you can spend two days. From Carvoeiro, you can visit some of the main highlights of the Algarve region: Marinha Beach, Benagil Cave and the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail.

From Carvoeiro, continue along the coast to Albufeira, a colorful town with a beautiful marina and nice sandy beaches, and finish your itinerary in Faro, the biggest town in the Algarve, where you can wander the old town and visit the cathedral.

Fly into the international airport at Lisbon, where you can pick up a rental car. The drive from Lisbon to Sagres is about 3 hours and 20 minutes.

Fly out of the international airport in Faro.

Day 1: Arrive in Sagres, explore Sagres Days 2-3: Arrive in Lagos, explore Lagos Days 4-5: Arrive in Carvoeiro, explore Carvoeiro and surrounds Day 6: Arrive in Albufeira, explore Albufeira, and end in Faro Day 7: Depart

Suggested by Alya of the Algarve Family

Cambridge-Oxford-Cotswolds, England

Europe is filled with outstanding road trips but one of the best is the drive from Cambridge to the Cotswolds via Oxford. The road trip overall takes just over two and a half hours and allows plenty of time for exploring.

To make the most of each destination, spend two nights in Cambridge, two nights in Oxford, and three nights in the Cotswolds. This road trip gives you the best of two worlds, famous cities and gorgeous villages that are exactly the way you probably picture England.

In Cambridge, take a punt on the River Cam, and explore the University colleges: Kings College is one of the most famous colleges in the United Kingdom.

Check out the Corpus Clock, stroll around the botanic gardens, and if you like museums, the Fitzwilliam Museum is a great way to spend an afternoon.

The drive from Cambridge to Oxford takes around one hour and 50 minutes, but allow a few hours to stop at some cute towns along the way.

Like Cambridge, Oxford is well known for its University and you must explore the colleges that are around the city, step back in time at the castle and prison, enjoy the quiet at Bodleian Library, and marvel at Radcliffe Camera.

Finally, head onto the Cotswolds. Although the villages are much smaller than both Cambridge and Oxford, you will want to spend a large portion of your road trip here, as there are so many amazing villages to see.

Some of the  best places to visit in the Cotswolds  are Stow-on-the-Wold (you must check out the door at St. Edwards Church!), Snowshill, Bourton-on-the-Water, and the Slaughters.

Fly into one of the international airports in London, where you can pick up a rental car, and fly out from London as well.

The drive from London to Cambridge is about 1 hour and 30 minutes, and the drive from the Cotswolds to London is about 2 hours and 20 minutes.

Days 1-2: Arrive in Cambridge, explore Cambridge Days 3-4: Arrive in Oxford, explore Oxford Days 5-6: Arrive in the Cotswolds, explore the Cotswolds Day 7: Depart

Suggested by Fiona of The Travelling Thirties

West Coast of Scotland

The west coast of Scotland has to be one of the most beautiful places in the UK. With ancient castles, famous distilleries, and dramatic landscapes, the rugged west coast is truly breathtaking.

A seven-day road trip of the west coast of Scotland is for seafood lovers, history buffs, and those that want to get under the skin of Scotland and understand what makes the country tick.

From Glasgow, stunning Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park ease you into the dramatic landscapes. On to the coast and you’ll enjoy fresh seafood, before heading to Inverary Castle, home to the Duke of Argyll and Chief of Clan Campbell.

Visit the living museum at Auchindrain to learn about the Highland Clearances, which took place between 1750 and 1860, before heading to Dunnadd Hill Fort, where the first kings of Scotland were inaugurated.

On Easdale Island, spend a day with wildlife, before tasting the whisky at Oban Distillery, one of the smallest and oldest distilleries in Scotland. Then stop to take photographs of iconic Castle Stalker, from the shores of Loch Linnhe. 

Finally, arrive at Glen Coe, site of the Massacre of Glencoe in 1692. Follow the Glen Coe Geotrail to learn more about the ancient volcanic history in this landscape full of natural wonders.

Starting in Glasgow, you’ll end this road trip in Fort William, where you can either continue across the Scottish Highlands to Inverness or head south to Edinburgh or Glasgow, all of which have airports.

Day 1: Arrive in Glasgow, explore Glasgow Day 2: Arrive in Loch Lomond, explore Loch Lomond Day 3: Explore Inverary Castle and Dunnadd Hill Fort Day 4: Easdale Island Day 5: Explore Oban and drive to Glen Coe Day 6: Explore Glen Coe Day 7: Drive to Fort William and explore before departing

Suggested by Izzy of The Gap Decaders

Sicily, Italy

One of the best ways to experience Southern Europe is to spend 7 days on the island of Sicily. The island sees sun year round and winter temperatures are considerably warmer compared to other parts of Europe. 

Spend day one of your seven-day Europe trip in Palermo, checking out the UNESCO-designated Palatine Chapel, eating a spleen sandwich, and visiting the magnificent baroque churches. 

On the next two days, explore the eastern side of the island. 

Erice is wonderful for the views from the fortress. San Vito Lo Capo has the best beaches of the island. And Trapani has salt flats that turn pink during the summer months.

Spend the next two days exploring Western Sicily.

Spend one full day exploring the baroque palazzi in the towns of Noto and Ortigia.

On the next day, explore Taormina. Both the village and the amphitheater are must-visits. 

On your last day, either choose an adventurous activity like climbing up Mount Etna, or opt to relax on the beach in the charming fishing village of Cefalu, before heading home. 

Fly in and out of the capital of Palermo, the  best place to stay in Sicily  for a week-long trip to the island. Use the city as a base to take day trips to the various parts of Sicily.

The easiest way to get around the island is by renting a car. Public transportation is scarce and will require a lot of patience. Rental cars can be picked up right outside the airport terminal.

Day 1: Arrive in Palermo, explore Palermo Day 2: Do a day trip from Palermo to San Vito Lo Capo Day 3: Do a day trip from Palermo to Erice and Trapani Day 4: Do a day trip from Palermo to Noto and Ortigia Day 5: Do a day trip from Palermo to Taormina Day 6: Hike Mount Etna or relax in Cefalu Day 7: Depart

Suggested by Caroline of Veggie Wayfarer

Single Country 7-Day Europe Trips

On this 7-day Europe trip, you will hit the highlights of Croatia on a picturesque road trip.

While the country is famous for its idyllic coastline and islands, Croatia also has a rich history. Plus, you have to visit Plitvice Lakes National Park!

Start in Dubrovnik , where the stunning Old Town is a must-wander. Dubrovnik is, hands down, one of the best places to visit in Croatia .

Walk the walls of Dubrovnik, stroll Stradun and visit historical landmarks, and join a tour to discover Game of Thrones filming locations.

Take in the views from Mount Srd (you can drive up or take the cable car), tour Lovrijenac Fortress, take a boat trip to Lokrum Island, and enjoy a drink at the famous Buza Bar.

Next, head to Split , where you can spend the rest of the day wandering around Diocletian’s Palace and take in the main sights, including the Split Cathedral and the Peristyle. Go for a stroll along the seafront promenade in the evening, or head to Marjan Hill for views.

On your second day in the city, visit Hvar on a day trip from Split by ferry.

Hvar Town has a picturesque fortress with views over the rooftops and the Pakleni Islands. St. Stephen’s Square is impressive and the little alleys of the town are worth discovering.

Your next destination is inland. Plitvice Lakes National Park, with its network of interconnected lakes and thousands of waterfalls, is one of the most beautiful national parks in Europe . Spend the day walking the trails and taking lots of photos!

On your final day, head to Zagreb , the country’s capital. Upper Town is compact and walkable, and here you will find the Zagreb Cathedral, St. Mark’s, with its famous tiled roof, and viewpoints looking out over the city.

Dolac Market is worth browsing for fresh fruit and snacks. Also walk Tkalciceva Street, where you will find numerous coffee houses and restaurants.

Fly into Dubrovnik Airport, where you can pick up a rental car, and out of Zagreb Airport.

The drive from Dubrovik to Split is about 3 hours. The journey from Split to Plitvice Lakes will take you about 2 hours and 20 minutes, and the drive from Plitvice Lakes to Zagreb is just under 2 hours.

Days 1-2: Arrive in Dubrovnik, explore Dubrovnik Day 3: Arrive in Split, explore Split Day 4: Do a day trip from Split to Hvar Day 5: Arrive at Plitvice Lakes, explore Plitvice Lakes National Park Day 6: Arrive in Zagreb, explore Zagreb Day 7: Depart

Slovenia , with the Julian Alps and its many alpine lakes, makes for one of the most scenic Europe trips you can do. It’s a small country, and you can see many of the major sights in Slovenia in one fun-filled week.

Start in Ljubljana , the Slovenian capital. We’ve split this itinerary up into two bases, but if you prefer, you can stay in the capital city for your entire week and explore the country on day trips from Ljubljana .

Spend a day touring charming Ljubljana. Snap photos of the famous “pink church,” head to Ljubljana Castle for panoramic views, and wander the historic center to admire the architecture of Jože Plečnik.

On the second day, take a day trip to visit Škocjan Caves in the karst region. The cave system is designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. Also visit Predjama Castle, built into the cliff face.

If steps are an issue visit Postojna Cave instead of Skocjan.

On day three, take a day trip to the Slovenian coast. Stop in to wander the little town of Koper before spending the day in beautiful Piran . Climb the town walls, visit St. George’s Parish Church and climb the bell tower for views. Enjoy the waterfront.

On day four, travel to Bled. Along the way, spend a couple of hours in the charming town of Škofja Loka . Spend the rest of the day exploring Lake Bled : walk the shore, take a pletna boat to the picturesque little island in the middle of the lake, and visit Bled Castle.

On day five, visit Vintgar Gorge in the morning for the stunning hike, and spend the afternoon at beautiful Lake Bohinj , where you can snap a photo of Slap Savica, take the cable car to the top of Mount Vogel, and take a canoe out on the lake.

On day six, take a day trip to Vršič Pass and the Soca River Valley. This is a full day if you take in sights along the way, so start early! Admire beautiful Lake Jasna, take in the views at Vrsic Pass, and hike to Kozjak Falls in Kobarid.

Fly in and out of Ljubljana Airport. Rent a car in Ljubljana if you want to explore independently with ease.

The drive from Ljubljana to Bled is about 40 minutes. If your flight out on day seven is early in the day, you can return to Ljubljana instead of Bled the previous evening.

Day 1: Arrive in Ljubljana, explore Ljubljana Day 2: Do a day trip from Ljubljana to Skocjan Caves (or Postojna Cave) and Predjama Castle Day 3: Do a day trip from Ljubljana to Piran and Koper Day 4: Arrive in Bled, explore Lake Bled Day 5: Visit Vintgar Gorge and Lake Bohinj from Bled Day 6: Do a day trip from Bled to Vrsic Pass and the Soca River Valley Day 7: Depart

One of the best destinations in Europe is the Island of Ireland: it includes the Republic of Ireland (ROI) and Northern Ireland (NI). Because all the best areas to visit are within a reasonable travel distance, Ireland is one of the best 7-day Europe trips you can do!

Start by exploring the city of Dublin, with its vibrant atmosphere, the music of Temple Bar, and the Guinness Factory with its iconic beer.

Some of Dublin’s other must-not-miss attractions include Dublin Castle, Trinity College, Christ Church Cathedral, Saint Patrick’s Cathedral, and the Saint Stephen’s Green (be sure to pop into the shopping center!).

From Dublin, do day trips to explore other destinations. Either rent a car and explore on your own, or join guided tours.

On day three, visit the stunning Cliffs of Moher and Galway City. This popular full-day excursion takes you along the Irish countryside and the Wild Atlantic Way to the Cliffs of Moher. You will also get some time to explore Galway City, with its colorful facades.

On day four, take a day trip to Kilkenny, where you can tour the castle, and drive through scenic Wicklow Mountains National Park to Glendalough, to tour the medieval monastic settlement.

On day 5, head to Northern Ireland. Here you cannot miss exploring the city of Belfast with its iconic Titanic Museum, the Queen’s University, and the captivating City Hall.

On day 6, do a day trip (or guided tour ) along the Antrim Coast from Belfast. Stop at Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Giant’s Causeway, and Bushmill Distillery for a warm sip of the oldest Irish whiskey.

On your final day, return to Dublin and go back home with your heart full of the most awe-inspiring wonders of ROI and NI!

Fly in and out of Dublin Airport. Rent a car at Dublin Airport if you want to explore independently. Guided tours are a convenient alternative.

The drive from Dublin to Belfast is about 1 hour and 45 minutes. If your flight out on day seven is early in the day, you can drive to Dublin late the previous evening.

Days 1-2: Arrive in Dublin, explore Dublin Day 3: Do a day trip from Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher and Galway City Day 4: Do a day trip from Dublin to Kilkenny and Glendalough Day 5: Arrive in Belfast, explore Belfast Day 6: Do a day trip from Belfast along the Antrim Coast Day 7: Depart

Suggested by Francesca of Travel Heal Love

Montenegro is a spectacularly beautiful country that’s perfect for a one-week Europe trip. The fjord-like Bay of Kotor, the many national parks, and charming old towns make Montenegro a must-visit European destination.

We’ve structured this 7-day Montenegro itinerary with a single base, in Old Town Kotor, with day trips from Kotor to explore the rest of the country.

If you wish, you can head north on day 5 and base yourself in Podgorica, from where you can fly out. Podgorica is closer to Durmitor National Park.

Start your Montenegro holiday by exploring picturesque Old Town Kotor . Wander the alleyways, visit the St. Tryphon Cathedral, and climb the walls to the Fortress of St. John for great views over Kotor and the Bay of Kotor.

On day two, drive along the Bay of Kotor and visit Herceg Novi and the Lustica Peninsula, known for its beautiful beaches and the Blue Grotto. Stop in to view the Roman mosaics in Risan.

On day three, visit Perast and Old Town Budva from Kotor. In Perast, a boat trip to the Church of Our Lady of the Rocks is a must! Old Town Budva is very picturesque, and you can spend some time at Mogren Beach as well.

On day 4, visit Mount Lovcen and the Mausoleum of Njegoš, and the historic city of Cetinje. Do a boat tour at Lake Skadar National Park, and stop to snap photos of Sveti Stefan before returning to Kotor.

On day 5, visit the impossibly-located Ostrog Monastery, enjoy walking around beautiful Black Lake in Durmitor National Park , and take in the views from the spectacular Tara Canyon Bridge.

On day 6, you can do an exciting Tara Canyon rafting trip from Kotor, or visit the charming coastal towns of Bar and Ulcinj, or visit yet another of Montenegro’s beautiful national parks, Biogradska.

Fly in and out of Tivat Airport. Rent a car at Tivat Airport if you want to explore independently, or have more than one base in Montenegro. Guided tours are a convenient alternative.

The drive from Tivat to Kotor is under 20 minutes.

Day 1: Explore Old Town Kotor Day 2: Do a day trip from Kotor to Herceg Novi, the Lustica Peninsula, and Risan Day 3: Do a day trip from Kotor to Perast and Old Town Budva Day 4: Do a day trip to Mount Lovcen National Park, Cetinje, and Lake Skadar National Park Day 5: Do a day trip from Kotor to Durmitor National Park and Ostrog Monastery Day 6: Enjoy Tara River Rafting or Biogradska National Park or Stari Bar and Ulcinj on a day trip from Kotor Day 7: Depart

That’s our round-up of some amazing one-week trip itineraries for Europe. Which one will you choose for your next visit?

More Europe Travel Inspiration

If you are planning a trip to Europe, check out some of our other articles!

• T he Best Europe National Parks to Visi t
• The Best Cities in Europe for Your Next Trip!
• Magnificent Palaces in Europe for Your Bucket List
• Where to Go in Europe in Winter
• Best Places to Visit in Spain
• Most Beautiful Little Towns in Italy

Did you find this article informative? Pin it for later reference!

Dhara's travel interests are eclectic, spanning everything from natural wonders to history, culture, art and architecture. She has visited 22 countries, many more than once, plus almost all 50 states of the USA, and has amassed a hoard of cherished travel moments.

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What to Know About Biden’s Trip to France

The international trek offers the president a chance to commemorate D-Day and to contrast with his predecessor.

What to Know: Biden’s Trip to France

Evan Vucci | AP

President Joe Biden is welcomed by French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal, left, after arriving at Orly Airport south of Paris on Wednesday, June 5.

Key Takeaways

• The trip marks Biden’s first state visit to France.
• The president will deliver remarks commemorating the 80th anniversary of D-Day.
• Along with French President Emmanuel Macron, Biden is also expected to talk with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

President Joe Biden arrived in France on Wednesday for a visit during which he will commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day, when Allied forces landed in Normandy and paved the way for the liberation of Europe in World War II. The trip also marks Biden’s first state visit to France.

The historic D-Day operation included nearly 160,000 troops from Britain , the U.S. , Canada and other nations, and helped lead to the defeat of Nazi Germany. On Thursday, Biden is expected to deliver remarks at a ceremony in Normandy commemorating the event, and to participate in a wreath-laying. At least 25 heads of state are expected to be in France to mark the occasion.

Did You Know?

The anniversary provides the perfect opportunity for Biden to weave together symbolism with policy and politics. Along with falling in the midst of his reelection campaign – and offering him opportunities to contrast with his opponent, former President Donald Trump – the visit to America's oldest ally comes as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is in its second year, the humanitarian crisis in the Middle East continues to escalate and China looms large over Taiwan, threatening its independence.

World War II “showed the world the value of strong alliances and partnerships, which is a lesson that continues to resonate strongly today, both in Europe and, quite frankly, well beyond Europe,” John Kirby, White House national security communications advisor, told reporters earlier this week during a preview of Biden’s trip.

“President Biden has made revitalizing our relationships a key priority, recognizing that we are stronger when we act together and that today’s challenges require global perspectives, global approaches, global responses, and multilateral effort and cooperation,” Kirby said. “France is our oldest ally, and this visit will underscore continued U.S.-French leadership on a range of consequential global issues.”

The Best Political Cartoons on Joe Biden

Biden, who will be in France for five days, is also scheduled to deliver remarks Friday at Pointe Du Hoc – where American soldiers on D-Day scaled cliffs to seize German artillery. He’s expected to focus on the importance of fighting for democracy.

“You can point to real lives that were impacted at Pointe du Hoc,” Kirby said. “You can point to real blood that was spilt in pursuit of that loftier goal. And you can tell stories about real men who climbed real cliffs and faced real bullets and real danger in the pursuit of something a whole hell of a lot bigger than themselves.”

Following the anniversary commemorations, French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife, Brigitte Macron, will host Biden and First Lady Jill Biden for the state visit. During a bilateral meeting between Biden and Macron, the two presidents will discuss continuing to support Ukraine, the war in Gaza and efforts to combat climate change, Kirby said.

Macron is reportedly weighing sending French military trainers to Ukraine – a potential move that’s sparked concern among some allies as it could lead to increased tensions with Russia. Notably, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will be in France this week as well, and is expected to meet with both Macron and Biden.

Biden follows a long line of U.S. presidents who have visited France to commemorate D-Day. His trip comes 40 years after former President Ronald Reagan’s famous speech at Pointe du Hoc, where he stressed the importance of allies.

"We in America have learned bitter lessons from two World Wars: It is better to be here ready to protect the peace, than to take blind shelter across the sea, rushing to respond only after freedom is lost. We’ve learned that isolationism never was and never will be an acceptable response to tyrannical governments with an expansionist intent," Reagan said during remarks on the 40th anniversary of D-Day.

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Christopher Wolf Sept. 7, 2023

In the background of Biden’s trip, of course, is the 2024 presidential election – the outcome of which could impact the relationship between the U.S., France and other NATO allies. Trump, for example, has repeatedly called out NATO members for not devoting enough money to defense, and has threatened not to come to the aid of those who don’t meet the alliance’s defense spending target – something he’s also sought to frame as a negotiating tactic.

While in France, Biden also plans to speak with U.S. and international veterans who served in World War II, and to visit a cemetery honoring fallen American soldiers during World War I. During a Trump trip to France in 2018, the former president did not visit the WWI Aisne-Marne American Cemetery due to what the White House at the time said was poor weather. Later reporting from The Atlantic said Trump criticized the dead buried there as “losers,” which Trump denied.

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Visiting Europe, Biden Will Find Both Solidarity and Isolation

The president arrived in France for a visit meant to mark the 80th anniversary of the D-Day invasion and showcase Western unity. But even as he rallies American allies in defense of Ukraine, he will defy them on the war in Gaza.

By Michael D. Shear and Peter Baker

Michael D. Shear and Peter Baker are both in Paris covering President Biden’s trip.

As President Biden visits France this week, he will be rallying European leaders to his side and showcasing the resolve he has helped to foster on behalf of Ukraine.

But he will also be defying the very same leaders and standing virtually alone among Western democracies still firmly in support of Israel as it wages war in Gaza.

Mr. Biden arrived in Paris on Wednesday morning for a trip aimed at celebrating the 80th anniversary of the D-Day invasion. It is his first visit to Europe since the Oct. 7 terrorist attack led by Hamas, which killed 1,200 people in Israel and triggered a military retaliation that has killed about 36,000 people in Gaza. Next week he will return to Europe for a summit in Italy with the leaders of the Group of 7 nations, and three weeks after that he will host the 75th anniversary summit of NATO nations in Washington.

The series of meetings will put Mr. Biden in a position he has not experienced since becoming president: He will be embraced and isolated at the same time by the same group of allies he has courted for nearly four years. For a president who has emphasized his support for America’s traditional alliances, it represents a challenge that will test his diplomatic skills in unfamiliar ways.

“Gaza undermines the moral clarity of the argument they want to make about Ukraine,” said Peter Beinart, a professor of journalism and politics at the City University of New York and a longtime analyst of Middle East affairs who has been critical of Israel’s government. “The Gaza war makes that story a lot less compelling to a lot of people.”

Ivo Daalder, who was an ambassador to NATO under President Barack Obama, acknowledged the tension in Mr. Biden’s approach.

“Yes, it seems to be slightly contradictory to be making one argument on Russia and another argument on Israel,” said Mr. Daalder, who now serves as president of the Chicago Council on Global Affairs. “But the situations are different. One was attacked, and the other did the attacking. It’s pretty big.”

The European allies, with a couple of notable exceptions, have been strongly aligned with Washington for more than two years in the multinational campaign to defeat Russia after its invasion of Ukraine, broadly matching American investments in the war with their own commitments to Kyiv. But the Europeans have grown increasingly critical of how Israel is conducting its operation in Gaza over the past nine months, even as the Biden administration has rejected efforts by the chief prosecutor at the International Criminal Court to seek arrest warrants for Israeli leaders on war crime charges.

The disparate priorities will play out at an event on Thursday meant to showcase Western unity and resolve. The D-Day landings at Normandy on June 6, 1944, will be celebrated as a high-water mark of the alliance that defeated Nazi Germany. President Emmanuel Macron of France will host leaders of the World War II partner countries, including King Charles, Queen Camilla, Prince William and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak of Britain and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau of Canada, representing the two nations that joined the United States in staging the climactic amphibious invasion.

Chancellor Olaf Scholz of Germany, representing the vanquished enemy, will also attend in a show of Europe’s reconciliation. Not present, however, will be President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia, despite the Soviet Union’s alliance with the West during the war. Mr. Macron’s government initially invited lower-level Russian representatives to participate but rescinded the offer after objections stemming from Moscow’s aggression in Ukraine.

By contrast, President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine will attend the ceremony, an opportunity for him to press Western leaders for more aid. White House officials said on Tuesday that Mr. Biden would meet with Mr. Zelensky while in France and then again during the G7 gathering in Italy.

John F. Kirby, a White House spokesman, said Mr. Biden knew that not every nation agrees with his policies. “Disagreements with allies and partners is not something new to President Biden,” Mr. Kirby said, “any more than unity and cooperation and collaboration, which he also fosters across a range of issues.”

The meetings between Mr. Biden and the allies come at a critical moment in both Europe and the Middle East. Ukraine is trying to fend off an escalating Russian offensive that threatens to break through its eastern defenses in a decisive way after two years of grinding combat. Hundreds of miles away, Israel and Hamas are both under pressure to agree to a cease-fire deal that could be the final chance for a path toward a more sustainable peace in the region.

Mr. Biden on Friday outlined such a cease-fire agreement that would eventually lead to the release of all hostages held by Hamas, the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza and a “permanent” end to the war. By advancing a deal that Europeans can support, the president may have found a way to minimize differences when he is in Paris.

The Group of 7 nations, including the United States, Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy and Japan, issued a statement on Monday endorsing the deal that Mr. Biden outlined and calling on Hamas to accept it. Mr. Biden characterized the deal as a proposal put forward by Israel but Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has not explicitly endorsed or rejected it publicly as he navigates his own domestic politics and seeks advantage in any renewed negotiations with Hamas.

At the same time, Mr. Biden addressed another difficult issue before the trip by authorizing Ukraine for the first time to use U.S.-provided weapons against targets inside Russia for self-defense in limited circumstances, something France, Britain, Germany, Poland and other allies had already embraced .

“The only way out of such a dilemma is to push ahead on both problems — help Ukraine do better or win and get Israel on a path to peace,” said Dan Fried, a retired diplomat now at the Atlantic Council in Washington. “Hence the decision to lift some restrictions on Ukraine’s use of U.S. arms and to push a complex and ambitious peace plan” in Gaza.

Still, the differences remain real and stark. Spain, Ireland and Norway formally recognized an independent Palestinian state last week, just days after the International Court of Justice ordered Israel to halt its military offensive in the city of Rafah in southern Gaza. Most European governments have endorsed the war crimes action against Israel at the International Criminal Court. “France supports the International Criminal Court, its independence and the fight against impunity in all situations,” the country’s foreign ministry said in a statement .

France has not acted to recognize a Palestinian state but did vote in the United Nations in May to support including Palestine as a full member of the organization. Britain, which is no longer a part of the European Union, abstained from that vote.

Critics of Mr. Biden said he has no one to blame for his diplomatic challenges in Europe but himself for an inconsistent approach to international crises.

“The contradiction, I think, is in American policy,” said Peter Rough, the director of the Center on Europe and Eurasia at the Hudson Institute and a former aide to President George W. Bush. “In Ukraine, he’s backing Ukraine against the Russian-Iranian alliance, while in Gaza he is managing Israel, even limiting it, as it confronts an Iranian proxy.”

From the other side of the spectrum, some foreign policy veterans said Mr. Biden has brought troubles upon himself by being too supportive of Israel.

“I am not at all sure that Biden has made the right choices on Israel-Gaza, although I acknowledge that he’s in a tough spot, as is our country,” said Eric Rubin, a longtime U.S. diplomat and the former president of the American Foreign Service Association. “Israel has lost the sympathy of most other countries and their citizens, and we won’t see it get it back in our lifetimes, I fear.”

But at the end of the day, some diplomats said, France and the other allies ultimately defer to the United States when it comes to such issues. And even though he will find them on different pages, Mr. Biden enjoys a constructive relationship with his peers, unlike his predecessor, and possible successor, Donald J. Trump, who berated European allies over their disagreements and left them dreading his potential return to office.

“The United States still plays the indispensable role,” said Mr. Daalder. “Everybody is looking to us to figure out how do we deal with Russia, how do we deal with China, and frankly even how do we deal with Israel. We’re still looked at by our friends and by our adversaries as the ones who will determine the outcome.”

Michael D. Shear is a White House correspondent for The New York Times, covering President Biden and his administration. He has reported on politics for more than 30 years. More about Michael D. Shear

Peter Baker is the chief White House correspondent for The Times. He has covered the last five presidents and sometimes writes analytical pieces that place presidents and their administrations in a larger context and historical framework. More about Peter Baker

Inside the Biden Administration

Here’s the latest news and analysis from washington..

Artificial Intelligence:  The Justice Department and the F.T.C. reached a deal that allows them to proceed with antitrust investigations  into the dominant roles that Microsoft, OpenAI and Nvidia play in the A.I. industry.

Immigration:  President Biden issued an executive order  that prevents migrants from seeking asylum at the U.S.-Mexico border when crossings surge, a dramatic election-year move  to ease pressure on the immigration system.

Israel and Ukraine:  Biden has promised to support the two countries for as long as it takes. Both their wars appear to be at critical turning points .

Attacks on Justice Dept.:  Attorney General Merrick Garland lashed out at House Republicans , accusing them of seeking to undermine the rule of law, peddling “conspiracy theories” and spreading falsehoods.

‘Corporate Offender’ Registry:  The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau finalized a plan to create a public registry  of nonbank businesses that have been penalized for violating consumer protection laws.

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Biden lands in France for D-Day anniversary, democracy speech

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Reporting by Jeff Mason and Paris newsroom; additional reporting by Steve Holland, Eric Beech, Kanishka Singh, Katharine Jackson and Andrea Shalal; Editing by Heather Timmons, Stephen Coates and Michael Perry

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Jeff Mason is a White House Correspondent for Reuters. He has covered the presidencies of Barack Obama, Donald Trump and Joe Biden and the presidential campaigns of Biden, Trump, Obama, Hillary Clinton and John McCain. He served as president of the White House Correspondents’ Association in 2016-2017, leading the press corps in advocating for press freedom in the early days of the Trump administration. His and the WHCA's work was recognized with Deutsche Welle's "Freedom of Speech Award." Jeff has asked pointed questions of domestic and foreign leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korea's Kim Jong Un. He is a winner of the WHCA's “Excellence in Presidential News Coverage Under Deadline Pressure" award and co-winner of the Association for Business Journalists' "Breaking News" award. Jeff began his career in Frankfurt, Germany as a business reporter before being posted to Brussels, Belgium, where he covered the European Union. Jeff appears regularly on television and radio and teaches political journalism at Georgetown University. He is a graduate of Northwestern University's Medill School of Journalism and a former Fulbright scholar.

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Houthi security forces have detained 11 United Nations personnel in Yemen over the past three days and the U.N. is seeking their safe and unconditional release as soon as possible, U.N. spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said on Friday.

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