Planning a summer trip to Europe is exciting – and undeniably daunting.
Personally, I don’t think there’s a more beautiful place on earth than Europe during the summertime. Whether you’re sat enjoying a beer on a sun-drenched pavement in Paris, or strolling a jasmine-filled street in Sicily, Europe in the summer is an explosion of azure coastlines, wildflower filled mountainsides and rooftop sunsets.
It’s both a bucket list trip and a rite of passage; a route that intrepid travellers have been enjoying since the 18th century, when the idea of the ‘Grand Tour’ became so popular.
But, where to begin? If you’re visiting Europe for the summer from the US, or from Asia, no doubt this trip is taking a lot of planning – and indeed money. You want to make sure you get it right and make the most of your time.
In this guide – and to help ease the overwhelm – we therefore share some of the best places to visit in Europe in summer, along with practical tips and two-week itinerary ideas to help you plan an unforgettable trip.
In short, it’s a step-by-step guide to planning a summer trip to Europe.
This guide is especially useful if you have around two weeks in Europe (or 14-15 days), want to visit multiple destinations, are travelling between June and September and want a mix of cities and scenery.
Alongside a ‘classic itinerary’ for summer in Europe, we’ve also included an alternative route – a hidden gems Europe itinerary focused on Eastern European and the Baltic.
Europe in summer is gorgeous, but getting your itinerary right is important. So, take a deep breath and let’s dive into the options.
2 Week Summer in Europe Itinerary (Classic Route)
The Best Cities to Visit in Europe in Summer
Cities are often the starting point for a European trip and probably the easiest way to get down a blueprint of sorts. They are not only bucket-list destinations, but are also well connected by trains and flights, making them ideal for a multi-destination European itinerary.
As we’re starting with a classic itinerary, here are some of the best cities to visit during a summer trip to Europe – tried and tested by our good selves.
We have tried to swap a few of the very obvious cities (e.g. Barcelona) for alternatives, just because honestly (and don’t hate us) there are better places to see than these more popular cities.
We’ve made this itinerary easy to follow, as efficient as possible (especially if you’ve only got a fortnight, or 14 or 15 days in Europe) and have ensured it combines a good mix of cities and scenery (ideal for first time visitors to Europe).
The route also moves gradually south through the continent (so expect things to heat up as you go).
Route: Paris – Amsterdam/The Hague → Provence →Valencia→Seville
Day 1 – 3: Paris
Where to stay: try the very cool and reasonably priced Mama Shelter
Paris is one of the most popular first stops on a European itinerary, thanks to the fact it’s so well connected and means you can then head south after.
You can fly in from both the US or UK (or indeed Asia) and kick-start your trip in a way that feels logical and practical.
Things to do in Paris
Paris in summer is, quite simply, a ‘chef’s kiss’. Long evenings make it perfect for walking (or taking a boat ride) along the Seine and many locals leave the city in August, which can make some areas feel quieter.
Although Paris is often associated with its famous landmarks and busy tourist attractions (hello, Eiffel Tower), some of our own most memorable experiences come from exploring its quieter neighbourhoods (something we did on our last trip).
We’d definitely recommend a slower-paced visit – one spent strolling food-focused streets like Rue des Martyrs, visiting historic covered passages and browsing independent bookshops.
Creative neighbourhoods such as Belleville and Le Marais, with street art, local cafes and panoramic viewpoints were probably our favourite spots in all of Paris – and much nicer than the tourist areas such as the Ile de la Cite (where you’ll find Notre Dame).
Exploring these less-visited districts is a great way to really immerse yourself in Paris – especially when those summer evenings stretch out ahead of you.
Read our full guide to non-touristy Paris here.
Day 4 – 7: Amsterdam and The Hague
With your first stop on your summer European itinerary under your built, it’s time to leave France for the Netherlands.
Given its fantastic connections, the best city to start in is Amsterdam.
Best place to stay in Amsterdam: You can never go wrong with a Hoxton.
Getting from Paris to Amsterdam
The easiest way to travel from Paris to Amsterdam is by high-speed train. It’s usually the quickest and most convenient option, especially if you’re following a jam-packed 2 week European itinerary.
In terms of how much the train between Paris and Amsterdam costs, prices vary quite a bit depending on how early you book. If you book super early, you can get a single fare for as little as £40, however, on average, most travellers will pay about £75 – £100.
Booking 1–3 months in advance usually gives the best prices.
The journey takes 3.5 hours and delivers you straight to Amsterdam Centraal – very handy.
Things to do in Amsterdam
Summer is one of the best times to visit Amsterdam.
The city comes alive with long, sunny days, bustling outdoor cafes and colourful markets lining the canals.
For a more authentic experience, again head beyond the busiest tourist areas. Quieter canals in Jordaan and De Negen Straatjes are perfect for peaceful walks, boutique shopping and charming cafes (we loved it there).
Markets, including Albert Cuyp or Noordermarkt are best visited early in the morning to beat crowds and make sure you enjoy the local foods here. We’d also definitely recommend renting a bike or taking a small canal boat tour – and definitely pack a picnic and take it to either Westerpark or Oosterpark parks.
From Amsterdam, you can also take a day trip into the Dutch countryside – including the famous Bollenstreek (Bulb Region), near Lisse.
Next Stop: The Hague
Where to stay in The Hague: the eclectic The Collector
Although not immediately on most tourists’ radar, definitely include a visit to The Hague on your 2 week European itinerary.
We have visited The Hague three times (more so than Amsterdam) and absolutely love this hidden gem of a European city.
Getting from Amsterdam to The Hague
The most popular option is the train (which we took), which takes about 50 minutes. Trains run frequently throughout the day and booking tickets in advance isn’t usually necessary.
Tickets cost between £13 – £17 and trains in the Netherlands are amazing.
Things to do in The Hague
Nestled on the North Sea, The Hague is not only a fascinating city, but offers amazing golden beaches just a short ride from its historic centre – perfect for summer in Europe.
Definitely visit the quieter Kijkduin coast and the livelier Scheveningen beach, and enjoy lounging by the sea, surfing or renting a little beach hut for the day.
The Hague itself is a great city.
Art lovers can explore world‑class museums like Escher in het Paleis and the Mauritshuis, home to Dutch masters including Vermeer and Rembrandt. The city’s iconic Peace Palace is also worth a visit (although you’ll need to book a guided tour to get in).
Be sure to explore the independent boutiques and bookshops lining pretty streets like Hofkwartier and Noordeinde – and sit back with a coffee and enjoy watching the blend of tourists, NGO workers and politicians wander by.
Read our full guides to visiting The Hague (city) here and a guide to Hague’s beaches here.
Day 7 – 9: Provence
Where to stay: spend a night in this hotel with a view in Gordes and a night inside historical Avignon (try this exceptional hotel, where we stayed in late summer).
So, on any normal itinerary for two weeks in Europe in summer, this might be the point that it’s suggested you go into Germany or perhaps even further North, upwards towards Copenhagen or Stockholm (both great cities, by the way).
However, given that there is nowhere on earth like this next destination come summer, we would definitely urge you hop back on a train and head towards Provence.
Getting from the Netherlands to Provence
The quickest option is to fly from Amsterdam to Marseille, which takes about 2 hours. From Marseille, you can rent a car, take a train, or use regional buses to reach destinations like Avignon, Aix-en-Provence or the Luberon.
If you’re committed to train travel during your summer European itinerary (or are interrailing) you can take a high-speed Thalys or NS International train from Amsterdam to Paris, then transfer to a TGV heading south to Provence. The total journey usually takes 6–8 hours and is super scenic. T
Tickets will set you back between £80 – £120, depending on how far you book in advance.
Once in Provence, there is a pretty good public transport system – but we’d perhaps recommend getting a hire car for this bit, just so that you can enjoy this gorgeous region at your own pace.
You can get a car from Marseille airport, or collect one at Aix-en-Provence train station or Avignon TGV station.
Things to do in Provence
So, why add Provence to your two week trip through Europe?
In short – Provence in the summer is pure magic. Think sun-soaked villages, rolling vineyards and ancient hilltop towns that look straight out of a postcard.
We would definitely recommend starting in Avignon, where you can wander the medieval streets, explore the Palais des Papes and enjoy fresh local treats at the market.
Come the summer months, as swifts dive overhead, there really is no place like Avignon.
From Avignon, head out into Provence’s famous countryside.
From hiking around Mont Ventoux to exploring the vineyards near stunning Gigondas, there’s plenty to see and do – especially if you love a good white wine with a view (don’t we all). The hilltop villages of Gordes and Roussillon are gorgeous to wander through, with colourful streets and stunning views.
And of course, you cannot skip Provence’s famous lavender fields.
If there is one core memory you’ll make during this two week Europe road trip itinerary, it’s visiting the beautiful Senanque Abbey, found in the heart of Provence’s purple-hued lavender fields (and close to the village of Gordes).
Still a working abbey, visitors can come here and watch as a community of Cistercians monks set about their day – harvesting honey, preparing food and tending to daily chores.
Combined with the lavender that completely surrounds the abbey, this is the most iconic place to visit in Provence during the summer.
Day 10 – 12: Valencia
Where to stay: we stayed here at the Las Arenas Balneario Resort and loved it.
It’s time to leave behind the purple haze of Southern France and head across the border into Spain.
Now, summer in Spain is hot – and increasingly so, as you head down the coast.
However, it’s also when locals tend to leave the cities, leaving things not only quieter, but in some cases much cheaper.
Getting from South of France to Valencia
If you want to travel predominantly by train through Europe, then you can get the fast train from Marseille or Avignon, straight to Barcelona. You can have a quick stop over here, before heading on to Valencia.
Both tickets will cost you around £110, combined – not bad.
Although you have the option to stop in Barcelona – honestly (and I understand this is controversial), we don’t love the city. No doubt it’s beachside location, Gaudi architecture and the iconic Sagrada Familia make it a great city, but it didn’t quite have the magic we were perhaps expecting.
We’d therefore suggest you instead head to Valencia; a city not as popular as Barcelona with tourists, but incredibly beautiful.
Valencia is one of the most family-friendly destinations we’ve travelled to, with the perfect mix of city, beach and child-focused activities.
From huge green parks and creative playgrounds to interactive museums, beaches and wildlife attractions, there’s plenty to keep children entertained without feeling like every activity is just for them.
During our own visit, we loved mixing bigger attractions with slower moments like picnics in the gardens or wandering the Old Town, which made the trip feel relaxed rather than rushed.
Read our full guide to Valencia here.
Day 13 – 15: Seville
Where to stay: try the phenomenal Hotel Lobby
So, while some itineraries for 2 weeks in Europe might end over in Italy or Greece, we would instead recommend enjoying your time in Southern Spain to its fullest – visiting Seville.
Yes, the weather will be hot, but this city is so stunning and special, that you’d be remiss to not include it on your Europe road trip.
It really is one of our favourite European cities.
Getting from Valencia to Seville
Unfortunately there are no fast trains between Valencia and Seville, but there is a pretty cheap and comfortable train (via Madrid) that takes between 5 – 7 hours and costs as little as £45 (if you book early).
Ironically, the cheapest option to travel between Valencia and Seville may well be to fly (with flights costing anything from £15 – £45 if booked early). However, once you add on luggage, or time in the airport, all this adds up – so I’d probably stick to train travel.
Things to do in Seville
From wandering through the beautiful gardens of Parque de Maria Luisa and Plaza de Espana, to pottering around the winding streets of the Santa Cruz neighbourhood, Seville is a very walkable and relaxed city.
Getting around is straightforward – most places are within easy walking distance and when you need it, the trams and buses are regular, cheap and family friendly.
Definitely spend a sunny afternoon enjoying the castle gardens, panoramic views from Metropol Parasol and the fairytale charm of the Alcazar’s courtyards.
For an extra treat, enjoy a spa experience at the heavenly Air Ancient Baths, where you can float in their underground thermal baths and enjoy luxury massages.
Read our full guide to Seville here.
Classic 2 week Summer Itinerary Europe
If you’ve got just 14 or 15 days in Europe this summer – and are looking for an intierary for first time visitors – we really would recommend the above.
By finishing in Seville, you also have the opportunity to then hop across the water to explore the chaotic (yet mesmerising) souks of Marrakech, or fly (or take a boat) over to Italy and gorgeous Sicily, if you wish.
While this differs a little from probably the more classic – or common fortnight long Europe itinerary – we think these destinations will provide you with a varied, but incredible, experience of summer in Europe.
Alternative 2 Week Itinerary for Summer in Europe
While our classic two week Europe itinerary sticks to most of the usual hotspots, there’s a whole other side of the continent that most overlook.
Sure, cities like Paris, Rome and Barcelona are iconic, but they’re also crowded and super expensive in the height of summer.
If you’re looking for something different, this 14 day Europe itinerary is therefore for you – meandering its way through the magic of Eastern Europe and the Baltics (personally, our favourite part of the continent).
Affordable, far less crowded than Western Europe’s famous capitals and packed with stunning coastlines, this route is perfect for travellers who want a different sort of European charm.
Below is our hidden gem itinerary for summer in Europe: the Eastern Europe and Baltic edition.
Route: Istanbul → Bucharest → Riga → Talinn → Gdansk → Helsinki
Days 1–3: Istanbul, Turkey
Where to stay: we stayed in this luxury hotel (expensive, but worth it).
Things to do in Istanbul
Kick off your adventure in colossal Istanbul – the iconic city where East meets West.
A place that immediately grabs you with its chaotic energy, incredible history and (vast) size, we visited Istanbul in 2019 and instantly fell in love.
During our own 3 days there, we packed in everything from sipping cocktails with panoramic views, wandering the very cool streets of Karakoy and visiting the most iconic mosques in Europe.
We also flew to Cappadocia, to experience the phenomenal hot air balloon rides that happen each morning.
You could absolutely dedicate more than a week to Istanbul (it is enormous), but you can still experience this city in just 2 -3 days. If you’re short on time, we’d definitely advise heading straight to the Grand Bazaar, the awe‑inspiring Hagia Sophia and the stunning Blue Mosque – as well as enjoying a peaceful moment at Siuleymaniye Mosque.
Stepping onto one of the city’s iconic ferries is also definitely a top Istanbul experience.
Even the brief commuter ride that crosses between Europe and Asia is worth taking, however the sightseeing ferries that cruise along the Bosphorus towards the Black Sea are really popular with visitors. From your boat, you get to see the city’s grand palaces, parks and historic wooden waterfront houses.
If you have more time, you can also catch a ferry from the Kabatas or Kadikoy docks to the Princes’ Islands (a little peaceful oasis).
Read our full guide to Istanbul here.
Days 4–6: Bucharest, Romania
Where to stay: we had a great stay here and made good use of the spa.
How to get from Istanbul to Bucharest
The journey from Istanbul to Bucharest takes you (excitingly) from the edge of Europe and Asia into the heart of Romania. Whether you choose to fly or travel overland, there are actually a few (fairly) straightforward ways to get to the Romanian capital.
The fastest option is definitely flying. Direct flights depart from Istanbul arrive at Henri Coanda airport (Bucharest) in just over an hour. If you book ahead, you can find one-way tickets starting from around £45, although prices are more likely to be in the £50-£100 region.
For those who have a bit more time (i.e. more than just 2 weeks) taking the train across the Balkans is a great idea.
Overnight trains leave from Halkali railway station (connecting through Sofia) before continuing on to Bucharest. The trip takes around 18–20 hours, but travelling overnight means you wake up in a new country, with glimpses of the Balkan countryside along the way.
Basic berths generally start at about £10 – £15, while sleeper cabins range from roughly £25 – £75 (depending on comfort and availability).
Things to do in Bucharest
For us, Bucharest was a real hidden gem.
The city offers an amazing mix of grand architecture, lively neighbourhoods and mind-boggling history. One of its most famous landmarks is the enormous Palace of the Parliament, one of the largest administrative buildings in the world.
Built during the communist era under Nicolae Ceausescu, the building is vast and imposing – giving visitors a glimpse into Romania’s turbulent past.
One of the best places to experience the atmosphere of the city is the Old Town, known as ‘Centrul Vechi’. Its cobbled streets are packed with historic buildings, churches and lovely cafes, making it the perfect area to wander. Highlights nearby include the beautifully ornate Stavropoleos Monastery and the ruins of the Curtea Veche (probably two of our favourite spots in the city) – both once associated with the legendary ruler Vlad the Impaler.
Beyond its historic centre, Bucharest also has plenty of green space. Parks such as Cismigiu Gardens offer an escape from city life, while all the nearby flea markets bring a real buzz to things on a Saturday morning.
Combined with its affordable restaurants and vibrant cafe culture, Bucharest makes an excellent short stop on this hidden gem itinerary.
Read our full guide to Bucharest here.
Days 6-9: Riga, Latvia
Where to stay: we treated ourselves to this gorgeous hotel during our own visit.
Getting from Bucharest to Riga
As this hidden gem Europe itinerary only spans 2 weeks – time is of the essence. We’d therefore definitely recommend that you fly from Bucharest to Riga.
Direct flights operate between Bucharest airport and Riga International Airport, usually taking about 2 hours 25–30 minutes. The route is operated by airBaltic, with several flights each week.
If there isn’t a convenient direct flight available, you can also travel via Warsaw or Vienna, which typically takes 4–6 hours total.
Things to do in Riga
Riga is a small, but perfectly formed, European capital – and one that completely charmed us when we visited (albeit, at Christmas).
The city itself is beautiful – filled with Art Nouveau architecture and some amazing restaurants. We’d definitely recommend booking a tour of the Old Town, as there is just so much to learn about this city. Outside of Riga, the country is filled with unspoilt forests, glassy lakes and (surprisingly) sandy beaches.
If you have time, you can also visit towns on the coast like Jurmala and Liepaja, while smaller towns such as Kuldiga have their very own waterfalls.
Read our full guide to Riga here.
Days 10 – 12: Gdansk, Poland
Where to stay: this is a great hotel (and well priced) in the heart of the Old Town.
How to get from Riga to Gdansk
Traveling from Riga to Gdansk is easier than it might seem.
Again, the fastest way is to fly and the journey takes just about 1.5 hours (try Ryanair and airBaltic for cheap seats). Once you arrive at Gdansk airport, it’s a 30–40 minute taxi to the city centre.
Alternatively, for those looking to save money, buses are a budget-friendly alternative. Companies like FlixBus and Ecolines run routes from Riga to Gdansk that take roughly 10–12 hours, with overnight options.
Things to do in Gdansk
We love Gdansk – especially Gdansk in summer (we actually think it’s the highlight of this alternative itinerary for summer in Europe).
From the moment you arrive on the city’s cobbled Old Town streets and see its colourful merchant houses and grand gates, you can immediately feel how layered and fascinating this city is.
Exploring iconic spots like Długa and Długi Targ – the historic thoroughfares once walked by royalty – are a must, while quirky local experiences like historic milk bars add a deliciously authentic touch to your trip (definitely grab lunch in one of these if you can – they’re cheap, too).
What we loved was just how compact the city is. You can climb up the Town Hall tower or even St. Mary’s Church for views over the rooftops, then lose yourself on Mariacka Street – one of Poland’s prettiest lanes – browsing amber stalls and sipping coffee in cafes.
Definitely also enjoy a boat ride, to view the city from the water.
If you’ve got more time, we’d definitely recommend hopping on the short train ride to Sopot, where you’ll find the most amazing golden beach.
Affordable, walkable and gorgeous in summer, Gdansk is definitely worth adding to your European summer road trip.
Days 12 – 15: Helsinki, Finland
Where to stay: you can never go wrong with a Radisson.
How to get from Gdansk to Helsinki
Getting from Gdansk to Helsinki is probably easiest by plane, with direct flights taking around 1.5–2 hours. Airlines like Finnair and LOT offer regular routes, and once you land in Helsinki, it’s just a short train or bus ride into the city centre.
If you have longer than a fortnight in Europe, you could potentially combine train or bus travel with an overnight ferry from nearby Gdynia to Helsinki. The ferry takes about 16–18 hours and offers cabins, restaurants (and entertainment).
Things to do in Helsinki
Helsinki is one of those cities we’d honestly return to in a heartbeat – especially when the summer nights hit and the sun barely sets.
From the moment you arrive, you’ll notice how much locals embrace the sun (after those long, dark winters) – sea pools and saunas are everywhere, leafy parks host music events and there’s a great outdoor food scene.
One of the city’s true staples is the Finnish sauna experience, including the buzzy Allas Sea Pool with its rooftop bar overlooking the harbour and the more traditional Loyly sauna. Once you’ve sweated it out and plunged into the cold water, your summer days can easily be filled with island hopping to places like historic Suomenlinna or the wildflower trails on Vallisaari (we adored both) – each offering their own slice of summer magic.
Beyond the water and saunas, Helsinki’s creative side really comes alive in summer. Its design district is perfect for wandering and we picked up some great jewellery here. Street‑corner ‘lippakioski’ kiosks pop up throughout the city, serving seasonal bites and coffee. Classic spots, like Cafe Regatta (with views over the sea), are also just perfect on a warm summer’s day.
It’s the most fabulous city to end your epic alternative European summer itinerary.
Read our full guide to Helsinki in summer here.
Planning a Summer in Europe: Top Tips
Paris – skip pricey tourist restaurants near the Eiffel Tower or Champs-Elysees. Instead, grab a fresh baguette, cheese and fruit from local boulangeries (or markets like Marche Bastille) and have a picnic in the Jardin du Luxembourg (our favourite spot in the city).
Also, the Paris Museum Pass can save money if you plan to visit multiple museums in a few days.
Amsterdam/The Hague – instead of taxis, use the bike-share system to explore the city like a local. Additionally, any galleries and museums, including the Rijksmuseum, have discounted entry if booked online in advance.
Provence – enjoy the region’s charm without splurging on guided tours. Instead, stroll lavender fields, coastal trails and local markets in Aix-en-Provence or Marseille.
Valencia/Seville – street food and tapas bars are your friends here. Try Central Market in Valencia or small tapas bars off the beaten path in Seville for fresh, affordable meals. Also, use public transport or rent a bike instead of taxis – both cities are very bike-friendly.
Riga/Tallinn – smaller Baltic cities mean cheaper accommodation and food. Stay near the Old Town, but not directly on main squares to save on hotels. Free walking tours are a great way to explore, and you can enjoy Baltic beaches or parks without spending a euro.
Gdansk – book trains in advance for trips to nearby towns like Sopot and check out local bars and cafes away from Długi Targ for cheaper meals.
Helsinki – use the Helsinki Card if you plan to visit several museums and need public transport. Otherwise, stick to free options like the Esplanadi Park, ferry rides to Suomenlinna (budget-friendly with a short ticket), and city markets for cheap local snacks.
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Is it Worth Visiting Europe for Two Weeks?
So, is it worth traveling all the way from overseas for just two weeks in Europe?
Will you really be able to put these itineraries to use?
Yes, absolutely.
While it might feel short for such a diverse continent, we definitely think that a carefully planned fortnight allows you to experience a mix of iconic European cities, hidden gems and relaxing escapes – all without feeling (too) rushed.
The key is to focus on quality over quantity. Choose a handful of destinations, plan your highlights in advance and get your trains booked early. You might want to cherry pick a little from the itineraries above – if you want to keep the pace a little slower.
Whether you’re sipping coffee by Amsterdam’s canals, cycling along the Baltic coast, or watching the sunset over Seville’s rooftops, even a short European summer break can feel full and unforgettable.
