Welcome to our blog about our epic three-week European road trip itinerary! We can’t wait to share all of the amazing sights, experiences, and memories we made along the way.
Over three weeks, we traveled through several beautiful countries, each with its unique culture and attractions. From Italy and France’s stunning coastlines to Switzerland and Austria’s breathtaking mountain ranges, we saw it all.
We stayed in various accommodations throughout our journey, from cozy bed and breakfasts to luxury hotels. We also tried a wide range of local cuisines and sampled some of the region’s best wines and beers.
We hope that by sharing our itinerary with you, we can inspire you to plan your own European road trip and create lasting memories of your own.
So join us as we take you on an adventure of a lifetime!
Are 3 weeks enough to travel to Europe?
Three weeks is a good amount of time to travel Europe and see a variety of destinations, but it’s not enough time to visit every country on the continent.
It’s important to carefully plan your itinerary, prioritize the places you want to visit and consider the distances between destinations and the time it will take to travel between them.
If you want to visit multiple countries in Europe, you may want to consider focusing on a specific region or selecting a few key destinations that are relatively close together.
This will allow you to make the most of your time and see as much as possible without feeling rushed.
You could also consider taking longer trips to certain destinations or breaking your trip up into multiple shorter trips to different parts of Europe. This can give you the opportunity to see and experience more while still allowing you to take your time and really immerse yourself in each destination.
Overall, the best way to make the most of a three-week European trip is to plan carefully and be flexible. This will allow you to have a rewarding and memorable experience without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
How many European countries can you see in 3 weeks?
It’s possible to visit several European countries in three weeks, but it will depend on the specific countries you want to visit and the distance between them.
If you want to visit multiple countries, you may want to focus on a specific region or select a few key destinations that are relatively close together.
This will allow you to make the most of your time and see as much as possible without feeling rushed.
For example: if you want to visit several countries in Western Europe, you could consider starting in Paris and making your way through the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, and Germany.
Alternatively, you could start in Rome and travel through Italy, Switzerland, Austria, and Germany.
If you want to visit Eastern Europe, you could consider starting in Prague and traveling through the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, and Austria.
Alternatively, you could start in Krakow and visit Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, and the Czech Republic.
It’s important to note that travel times between destinations can vary significantly, and you’ll need to factor in the time it takes to travel between countries when planning a Europe itinerary.
It’s also a good idea to consider the distances between cities and the time it will take to travel between them when selecting your destinations.
Which European country is best for a road trip?
There are many beautiful and interesting countries in Europe that are well-suited for a road trip.
Some popular destinations for road trips in Europe include:
France
France is a diverse country with a wide range of landscapes and tourist attractions, including stunning coastlines, picturesque countryside, and vibrant cities.
Highlights of a road trip in France might include exploring the charming villages of the Loire Valley, driving along the Mediterranean coast, and visiting the iconic city of Paris.
Italy
Italy is another popular destination for road trips, with its beautiful coastlines, historic cities, world-class museums, and rolling hills.
Highlights of a road trip in Italy might include visiting the iconic cities of Rome and Venice, exploring the stunning Amalfi Coast, eating a pizza in Napoli and driving through the beautiful Tuscany region, also known for its high-quality local wine.
Spain
Spain is a diverse country with a rich cultural heritage and a range of landscapes, from the Mediterranean coast to the Pyrenees mountains.
Highlights of a road trip in Spain might include visiting the vibrant cities of Barcelona and Madrid, exploring the stunning beaches of the Costa del Sol, and driving through the beautiful countryside of Andalusia.
Germany
Germany has a rich history and a range of landscapes, from the picturesque Bavarian Alps to the bustling cities of Berlin and Munich.
Highlights of a road trip in Germany might include exploring the charming towns and villages of the Black Forest, visiting the historic city of Dresden, and driving through the beautiful countryside of Bavaria.
What’s the best time to visit Europe?
The best time to visit Europe depends on various factors, including your personal preferences, the specific destinations you want to see, and the type of activities you want to do.
Here are a few things to consider when planning your trip:
Consider the weather
Europe experiences a wide range of weather, from the hot and dry summers of the Mediterranean to the cold and snowy winters of the Northern countries.
If you’re planning a trip to Europe, it’s essential to consider the weather and choose a time of year that is suitable for the activities you want to do.
In general, the climate in Europe is characterized by four seasons: spring, summer, fall (autumn), and winter. The specific months each season falls in can vary depending on the region.
Spring (March, April, May)
The weather in spring is generally mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from cool to warm, depending on the location.
In the southern regions of Europe, such as the Mediterranean and the Black Sea, the weather can be pretty warm during the spring months, with average temperatures in the mid-60s to mid-70s Fahrenheit (around 20-25°C).
In the northern regions of Europe, such as the Scandinavian countries and the Baltic states, the weather can be cooler during the spring months, with average temperatures in the 40s to 50s Fahrenheit (around 5-15°C).
Summer (June, July, August)
The weather in summer is generally warm to hot, with temperatures ranging from mild to hot, depending on the location.
In the southern regions of Europe, such as the Mediterranean and the Black Sea, the weather can be quite hot during the summer months, with average temperatures in the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (around 25-30°C).
In the northern regions of Europe, such as the Scandinavian countries and the Baltic states, the weather can be mild to warm during the summer months, with average temperatures in the 60s to 70s Fahrenheit (around 20-25°C).
Fall (September, October, November)
The weather in fall is generally mild to cool, with temperatures ranging from warm to cool, depending on the location.
In the southern regions of Europe, such as the Mediterranean and the Black Sea, the weather can be quite mild during the fall months, with average temperatures in the 60s to 70s Fahrenheit (around 20-25°C).
In the northern regions of Europe, such as the Scandinavian countries and the Baltic states, the weather can be cool during the fall months, with average temperatures in the 40s to 50s Fahrenheit (around 5-15°C).
Winter (December, January, February)
The weather in winter is generally cold, with temperatures ranging from cool to cold, depending on the location.
In the southern regions of Europe, such as the Mediterranean and the Black Sea, the weather can be quite mild during the winter months, with average temperatures in the 50s to 60s Fahrenheit (around 10-20°C).
In the northern regions of Europe, such as the Scandinavian countries and the Baltic states, the weather can be very cold during the winter months, with average temperatures in the 20s to 30s Fahrenheit (-5 to -10°C).
It is important to note that the weather in Europe can vary widely from year to year, and it is always a good idea to check the forecast for the specific location and time of year that you will be visiting.
Crowd factor
Europe is a popular tourist destination, and the crowds can vary significantly depending on the time of year.
Generally, the summer months (June, July, and August) are the busiest and the most expensive, while the shoulder seasons (April, May, September, and October) are less crowded and often offer better deals.
Festivals and events
Europe is home to various festivals and events throughout the year, from music and sporting events to cultural festivals and holiday celebrations.
If you’re planning a trip to Europe, you might want to consider visiting during a specific festival or event that interests you.
The best time to visit Europe is a matter of personal preference.
Some people prefer to visit during the warm and sunny summer months, while others prefer to visit during the cooler and less crowded shoulder seasons.
Ultimately, the best time to visit Europe will depend on your specific interests and priorities.
How much should I budget for a 3-week Europe trip?
The cost of a three-week Europe trip can vary widely depending on several factors, including
- your travel style
- the specific destinations you visit
- the time of year you travel
- and the type of accommodation and transportation you choose.
Here are some general estimates of the costs incurred during a three-week Europe trip.
Airfare
The cost of airfare to Europe can vary depending on your departure city and the destinations you visit.
It is a good idea to book your flights well in advance and be flexible with your travel dates to get the best deals.
Accommodation
Depending on your travel style and the type of accommodation you choose, you can expect to spend anywhere from $50 to $300 per night on accommodation.
If you are willing to stay in budget hotels, hostels, or Airbnb rentals, you can save on accommodation costs.
As a rough estimate, you should pay around $50-100 per night for a hotel or vacation rental, depending on the location and amenities.
If you are staying in hostels or camping, you might expect to pay around $20-30 per night.
Transportation
The cost of transportation will depend on the specific destinations you visit and the mode of transportation you choose.
If you plan to travel by plane, you can expect to pay around $100-200 for a one-way ticket between major European cities.
If you plan to travel by car, you will need to budget for fuel costs, tolls, and parking fees.
Food and drink
The cost of food and drink can vary widely depending on the specific destinations you visit and your dining habits.
You can expect to pay around $10-30 per day for meals in most European cities, although prices can be higher in touristy areas.
Activities
The cost of activities will depend on the attractions you visit and the type of activities you participate in.
Some popular attractions and activities in Europe, such as museum admissions and guided tours, can be expensive, while others, such as walking tours and outdoor activities, can be more affordable.
As a rough estimate, you might expect to pay around $30-100 per day for activities such as visiting famous landmarks and museums, depending on your destinations.
More expensive activities such as skydiving or skiing cost $100-200 per day.
Bottom line
As a general rule, it is a good idea to budget at least $100-150 per day per person for a three-week trip to Europe.
This estimate includes transportation, accommodation, food, and activities but does not include the cost of airfare.
Based on these estimates, you might expect to budget around $2,500-5,000 per person for a three-week trip to Europe.
However, this is just a rough estimate, and the actual cost of your trip will depend on your specific destinations, mode of transportation, accommodation, and activities.
Top travel tips for your 3 weeks Europe trip
Here are some top travel tips for your three-week trip to Europe.
Plan your itinerary carefully: It’s important to carefully plan your Europe itinerary and prioritize the places you want to visit.
- Consider the distance between destinations
- the time it will take to travel between them
- and the type of transportation you will use
It’s also a good idea to be flexible and leave some room in your schedule for unexpected delays or detours.
Pack light: Europe has a wide range of climates and landscapes, so it’s important to pack clothing suitable for various weather conditions. Try to pack light and bring only the essentials, as you’ll likely be on the move a lot, and you don’t want to be weighed down by heavy luggage.
Research local customs and etiquette: Each European country has its own unique culture and customs, so it’s a good idea to research local etiquette before arriving. This can help you avoid offending locals and make your trip more enjoyable.
Learn some basic phrases in the local language: Even if you don’t speak the local language fluently, learning some basic phrases can go a long way in helping you communicate with locals and make your trip more enjoyable.
Use local transportation: Europe has an extensive public transportation network, including trains, buses, and subways, which can be an economical and convenient way to get around. Consider using local transportation instead of renting a car, as it can be more cost-effective and help you avoid the hassle of navigating unfamiliar roads.
Stay safe: As with any trip, it’s important to stay safe while traveling in Europe. Research the local safety conditions and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
The key to a successful and enjoyable three-week trip to Europe is to plan carefully and be flexible.
Top travel itineraries for 3 weeks in Europe
It’s easier to create a specific three-week Europe itinerary with more information about your interests and priorities and the specific destinations you want to visit.
For that reason, we compiled three different itineraries for different profiles so you can get inspired by the one that talks to you the most.
Europe itinerary for nature enthusiasts
Week 1
Day 1: Arrive in Zürich, Switzerland.
Day 2: Explore Zürich’s natural beauty and take a day trip to the Swiss Alps.
Day 3-5: Drive to Interlaken and take a hike in the Jungfrau region.
Week 2
Day 6-8: Drive to the Italian Dolomites, enjoy the mountain town and go rock climbing.
Day 9-11: Drive to the French Pyrenees and go hiking in the mountains.
Week 3
Day 12-14: Drive to the Spanish Pyrenees and go rafting on the Noguera Pallaresa River.
Day 15-17: Drive to the Basque Country and go surfing in San Sebastián.
Day 18: Depart from Bilbao.
Itinerary for visiting historical monuments
Week 1
Day 1: Arrive in Paris, France.
Day 2-4: Explore Paris and see iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral, or get lost among the colorful baroque buildings.
Day 5-7: Take the Eurostar to London and visit historic landmarks such as Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London.
Week 2
Day 8-10: Take a day trip to Stonehenge and visit the Roman baths in Bath.
Day 11-13: Fly to Rome and visit ancient landmarks such as the Colosseum, the Vatican City, and the Pantheon.
Week 3
Day 14-16: Explore the ruins of Pompeii and take a day trip to the Amalfi Coast.
Day 17-19: Visit the historic city of Venice and take a gondola ride (boat trip) through the grand canal.
Day 20: Depart from Venice.
Europe Itinerary for foodies
Week 1
Day 1: Arrive in Barcelona, Spain.
Day 2-4: Explore Barcelona and try local specialties such as paella, tapas and sangria.
Day 5-7: Drive to the Basque Country and visit San Sebastián, known for its delicious pintxos (tapas).
Week 2
Day 8-10: Drive to the Italian region of Tuscany and visit the cities of Siena and Florence. Try local specialties such as Chianti wine and truffles.
Day 11-13: Drive to the French region of Provence and visit the cities of Nice and Marseille. Try local specialties such as bouillabaisse and ratatouille.
Week 3
Day 14-16: Drive to Andalusia’s Spanish region and visit Granada and Seville’s cities.
Try local specialties such as tapas and flamenco.
Day 17-19: Drive to Lisbon, Portugal, and try local specialties such as pastéis de Nata and port wine.
Day 20: Depart from Lisbon.
These are just a few examples of three-week Europe trip itineraries that focus on different interests.
The specific destinations and activities can be adjusted based on your personal preferences and the specific things you want to see and do.
Travel itinerary for 3 weeks in Eastern Europe
Eastern Europe is a diverse and fascinating region with a rich history and culture. Here is a sample three-week travel itinerary for Eastern Europe.
Week 1
Day 1: Arrive in Prague, Czech Republic.
Day 2-4: Explore Prague and visit landmarks such as the Old town square, Charles Bridge, and the Prague Castle.
Day 5-7: Take a train to Krakow, Poland and visit landmarks such as the Wawel Castle and the Kazimierz Jewish District.
Week 2
Day 8-10: Take a train to Budapest, Hungary and visit landmarks such as the Buda Castle and the Széchenyi Thermal Bath.
Day 11-13: Take a train to Vienna, Austria and visit landmarks such as the Schönbrunn Palace and the Vienna State Opera.
Week 3
Day 14-16: Take a train to Salzburg, Austria and visit landmarks such as the Salzburg Cathedral and the Hohensalzburg Castle.
Day 17-19: Take a train to Munich, Germany and visit landmarks such as the Marienplatz and the Nymphenburg Palace.
Day 20: Depart from Munich.
This itinerary allows you to visit some of the most iconic cities in Eastern Europe and experience the rich culture and history of the region.
Three-week travel itinerary for Northern Europe
Week 1
Day 1: Arrive in Copenhagen, Denmark.
Day 2-4: Explore Copenhagen and visit landmarks such as the Tivoli Gardens and the Nyhavn waterfront.
Day 5-7: Take a ferry to Stockholm, Sweden and visit landmarks such as the Vasa Museum and the Gamla Stan (Old Town).
Week 2
Day 8-10: Take a train to Helsinki, Finland and visit landmarks such as the Helsinki Cathedral and the Suomenlinna Sea Fortress.
Day 11-13: Take a ferry to Tallinn, Estonia and visit landmarks such as the Tallinn Old Town and the Kadriorg Palace.
Week 3
Day 14-16: Take a train to Riga, Latvia and visit landmarks such as the Riga Castle and the St. Peter’s Church.
Day 17-19: Take a train to Vilnius, Lithuania and visit the most famous landmarks such as the Vilnius Cathedral and the Gediminas’ Tower.
Day 20: Depart from Vilnius.
3-weeks Central Europe itinerary
Central Europe is a diverse and fascinating region with a rich history and culture.
Here is a sample three-week travel itinerary for Central Europe.
Week 1
Day 1: Arrive in Prague, Czech Republic.
Day 2-4: Explore Prague and visit Prague castle, the old town square, the Charles Bridge and the Prague Castle.
Day 5-7: Drive to the German region of Bavaria and visit the cities of Munich and Nuremberg.
Week 2
Day 8-10: Drive to the Austrian region of Tyrol and visit the cities of Innsbruck and Salzburg.
Day 11-13: Drive to the Italian region of Trentino-Alto Adige and visit the cities of Trento and Bolzano.
Week 3
Day 14-16: Drive to the Italian region of Lombardy and visit the cities of Milan and Brescia.
Day 17-19: Drive to Veneto’s Italian region and visit Venice and Verona’s cities.
Day 20: Depart from Verona.
This itinerary allows you to visit some of the most iconic cities in Central Europe and experience the rich culture and history of the region.
3-week itinerary for visiting modern and vibrant cities in Europe
Week 1
Day 1-3: Amsterdam, Netherlands. Explore the canals and visit the Anne Frank House. Check out the city center of this modern city. Visit the Red Light District and sample some Dutch cuisine.
Day 4-6: Berlin, Germany. Visit the Brandenburg Gate and Checkpoint Charlie. See the Berlin Wall and the Holocaust Memorial. Explore the trendy neighborhoods of Neukölln and Kreuzberg.
Week 2
Day 7-9: Prague, Czech Republic. Visit the Prague Castle and the Charles Bridge. Check out the John Lennon Wall and the Jewish Quarter. Explore the city’s nightlife in the Vinohrady and Žižkov districts.
Day 10-14: Vienna, Austria. Visit the Schönbrunn Palace and the Hofburg Imperial Palace. See the Kunsthistorisches Museum and the Naturhistorisches Museum. Take a walk through the city’s beautiful gardens and parks.
Week 3
Day 15-22: Milan, Italy. Visit the Cathedral of Milan and the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Check out the Brera Art Gallery and the Leonardo da Vinci National Museum of Science and Technology. Shop and dine in the Navigli district.
There are many other modern and vibrant cities in Europe that you can visit, such as Paris, Barcelona, London, and Lisbon.
De-tour to view the Northern Lights in Europe
Day 1-3: Tromsø, Norway
- Tromsø is a popular destination for viewing the Northern Lights, as it is located above the Arctic Circle and has a high probability of clear skies.
- Explore the city’s museums and cultural attractions, such as the Polar Museum and the Tromsø Cathedral.
- Take a tour to the nearby islands or go dog sledding or snowshoeing in the surrounding wilderness.
Day 4-6: Reykjavik, Iceland
- Reykjavik is another great destination for viewing the Northern Lights, as it is located in the high-latitude region of the Northern Hemisphere.
- Visit the city’s museums and landmarks, such as the Reykjavik Art Museum and the Hallgrimskirkja Church.
- Take a tour to see the Golden Circle or go whale watching in the nearby waters.
Day 7-9: Rovaniemi, Finland
- Rovaniemi is the capital of Lapland and is a popular destination for viewing the Northern Lights.
- Visit the Santa Claus Village and the Arktikum Science Museum.
- Take a tour to see the nearby wilderness and try activities such as reindeer sledding and snowmobiling.
The best time to view the Northern Lights in Europe is during the colder months, from September to April, when the nights are longer and the skies are clearer.
The Northern Lights are most active during solar storms, which usually occur around the equinoxes (March and September). However, the Northern Lights can be unpredictable, and it is not guaranteed that you will see them even during the optimal viewing times and locations.
It is important to note that the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, and it is impossible to guarantee their visibility. It is also important to dress warmly and be prepared for cold weather conditions.
Backpacking itineraries for 3 weeks in Europe
Backpacking in Europe is a popular and affordable way to explore the continent.
You can follow many different itineraries depending on your interests and the specific destinations you want to visit.
Here are a few sample three-week backpacking itineraries for Europe
Europe itinerary for budget travelers
Week 1
Day 1: Arrive in Berlin, Germany.
Day 2-4: Explore Berlin and visit landmarks such as the Brandenburg Gate and the Berlin Wall.
Day 5-7: Take a bus to Prague, Czech Republic and visit cultural attractions such as the Charles Bridge, the historic jewish district, and the Prague Castle.
Week 2
Day 8-10: Take a bus to Krakow, Poland and visit landmarks such as the Wawel Castle and the Kazimierz Jewish District.
Day 11-13: Take a bus to Budapest, Hungary and visit landmarks such as the Buda Castle and the Széchenyi Thermal Bath.
Week 3
Day 14-16: Take a bus to Vienna, Austria and visit landmarks such as the Schönbrunn Palace and the Vienna State Opera.
Day 17-19: Take a bus to Salzburg, Austria and visit landmarks such as the Salzburg Cathedral and the Hohensalzburg Castle.
Day 20: Depart from Salzburg.
Europe itinerary for beach lovers
Week 1
Day 1: Arrive in Barcelona, Spain.
Day 2-4: Explore Barcelona and visit landmarks such as the Sagrada Família and the Gothic Quarter.
Day 5-7: Take a bus to Marseille, France and visit landmarks such as the Old Port and the Notre-Dame de la Garde.
Week 2
Day 8-10: Take a bus to Nice, France and visit landmarks such as the Promenade des Anglais and the Musée Matisse.
Day 11-13: Take a ferry to the island of Corsica and visit landmarks such as the Ajaccio Citadel and the Calvi Beach.
Week 3
Day 14-16: Take a ferry to the island of Sardinia and visit landmarks such as the Nuraghe Su Nuraxi and the Costa Smeralda.
Day 17-19: Take a ferry to the island of Sicily and visit landmarks such as the Valley of the Temples and the Catacombs of Palermo.
Day 20: Depart from Palermo.
Europe in 3 weeks for families
Europe is a great destination for families, with a wide range of attractions and activities that are suitable for people of all ages.
Here are some of the best places to visit in Europe for families with children under 10 years old:
Paris, France: Paris is an elegant city and a great destination for families, with a wide range of kid-friendly attractions such as Disneyland Europe, the City of Science and Industry, the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and the Jardin du Luxembourg.
London, United Kingdom: London is another great destination for families, with a range of child-friendly attractions such as the Tower of London, the London Eye, and the Science Museum.
Barcelona, Spain: Barcelona is a vibrant and colorful city with a range of kid-friendly attractions such as the Sagrada Família, the Gothic Quarter, and the Barcelona Zoo.
Rome, Italy: Rome is a city with many historic sites and a range of kid-friendly attractions such as the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Vatican City, and the Trevi Fountain or immerse yourself into the history of ancient Rome.
Amsterdam, Netherlands: Amsterdam is a charming and picturesque city with a range of kid-friendly attractions such as the Rijksmuseum, the Anne Frank House, and the Vondelpark.
Here is a sample three-week road trip itinerary for families with children in Europe:
Week 1
Day 1: Arrive in Paris, France.
Day 2-4: Explore Paris and visit landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum.
Day 5: Drive to the Loire Valley and visit castles such as the Château de Chambord and the Château de Chenonceau.
Day 6-7: Drive to the French Alps and visit the ski resort town of Chamonix.
Week 2
Day 8-10: Drive to the Italian Dolomites and visit the towns of Bolzano and Merano.
Day 11-13: Drive to the Italian region of Tuscany and visit the cities of Siena and Florence.
Week 3
Day 14-16: Drive to the Italian region of Umbria and visit the cities of Perugia and Assisi.
Day 17-19: Drive to the Italian region of Lazio and visit the city of Rome.
Day 20: Depart from Rome.
This itinerary offers a mix of city sightseeing and outdoor adventures and allows you to visit some of Europe’s most beautiful and iconic regions.
You can adjust the specific destinations and activities based on your family’s interests and preferences.
You may also like: Why road trips are better than flying? (Answered!)
Final thoughts
In conclusion, a three week itinerary is the perfect amount of time to explore this diverse and fascinating region.
With careful planning and a bit of flexibility, you can see a wide range of destinations and experience the rich culture and history of Europe.
Whether you are interested in history, nature, culture, or cuisine, there is a European itinerary that will suit your interests and budget.
With so many amazing places to visit in Europe, it can be tough to choose the perfect itinerary. However, the key is to focus on your interests and priorities and to be open to new experiences.
Don’t be afraid to mix and match different destinations and activities, and be willing to adjust your plans as you go.
No matter what itinerary you choose, a three-week trip to Europe is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
So why wait? Start planning your trip today and discover all that Europe has to offer!
