Our 7 Best Europe Itineraries for First-Timers

Length: 10 Days

Places Visited: Rome, Florence, Venice

Why we recommend this sample itinerary:

Whether eager to wander through lavish gardens or witness preserved ancient architecture, find the influence of Michelangelo or glide along charming canals, the Highlights and Hidden Treasures of Italy Tour: Rome, Florence, Venice celebrates the three iconic Italian cities. Renaissance villas and wine capture the splendor, while the marbled palaces of Venice display the glamour on an immersive tour of the essential highlights, as well as Italy’s hidden wonders.

Learn more: Italy Tours & Vacations for First Timers • Italy Travel Guide

Length: 10 Days

Places Visited: Athens, Santorini, Chania (Hania), Crete, Heraklion

Why we recommend this sample itinerary:

Greece is one of the world’s ultimate destinations and a perfect place for a first-time visit to Europe. Highlights of Greece in 10 Days: Unforgettable Aegean Journey accentuates the most iconic images of the country and brings you face to face with the ancient history, renowned beauty, and integral culture that has made Greece a fascinating destination for millennia. From fabled Crete to legendary Santorini, the breathtaking Parthenon to a relaxing black-sand beach, you can find immersion and splendor.

Learn more: Greece Vacations & Tours • Greece Travel Guide

Length: 13 Days

Places Visited: London, Paris, Rome

Why we recommend this sample itinerary:

First-time visitors to Europe must experience iconic architecture, culture, and art on the Perfect London, Paris, and Rome Tour. Europe overflows with treasured heritage and these three cities practically cover the history of Western Europe in the way they celebrate and showcase their design, traditions, and culinary customs. From ancient life to Renaissance beauty, the Belle Epoque to imperial grandeur, you can find glamour and prestige at Parliament, the Eiffel Tower, and the Colosseum.

Learn more: London & Paris Vacation Packages • Paris & Rome Vacation Packages

Length: 9 Days

Places Visited: Toledo, Segovia, Lisbon, Sintra, Seville, Granada, Barcelona, Costa Brava

Why we recommend this sample itinerary:

Spain and Portugal are cultural adventures with art, architecture, and traditions around every corner. Highlights Adventure in Spain & Portugal was designed to immerse you in the beauty and excitement of the Iberian Peninsula’s historic cities and tangible heritage. From cycling to flamenco, ziplining over ancient streets to sampling mouthwatering cuisine, fairytale castles to soccer, you can experience the excitement of the modern world steeped in the charms of the past.

Learn more: Spain & Portugal Tours • Spain Travel Guide • Portugal Travel Guide

Length: 14 days

Places Visited: London, Dover, Canterbury, Windsor, Stonehenge, Bath, Warwick, York, Yorkshire, St. Andrews, Glencoe, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Cotswolds, Stratford-Upon-Avon, Fife, Western Highlands, Sterling, North Berwick

Why we recommend this sample itinerary:

England and Scotland, with their centuries of intertwined history, offer a perfect introduction to Europe for first-time visitors. The Signature Tour of England and Scotland’s Comforting Charms uncovers renowned charisma and exceptional opulence from London to Edinburgh. Experience a quaint Shakespearean village, witness the mysterious Stonehenge, or explore the dramatic Scottish Highlands. From thatched-roof cottages to the Royal Mile, you will find endless beauty in England and Scotland.

Learn more: England and Scotland Tours • England Travel Guide • Scotland Travel Guide

Length: 10 days

Places Visited: Prague, Nuremberg, Berlin, Potsdam, Sachsenhausen

Why we recommend this sample itinerary:

First-time visitors to Europe can find antique spires and surprising colors on the Beacons of Central Europe: Prague, Nuremberg, Berlin Tour, which reveals the captivating histories and exceptional artistry of some of Central Europe’s most dynamic cities. With illustrious architecture, a unique ambiance, rolling hills, and fertile farmland, you can explore fascinating artistry in attentive luxury at your pace for a combination of adventure and discovery from the Czech Republic to Germany.

Learn more: Czech Republic Tours • Germany Tours & Vacations • Germany Travel Guide

Length: 11 Days

Places Visited: Paris, St-Remy-de-Provence, Nice, Antibes

Why we recommend this sample itinerary:

For an essential experience of glamour, luxury, and beauty, France should be your first stop in Europe. Our Fabulous Paris, Provence, and French Riviera Tour inspires unforgettable memories in breathtaking scenery and exceptional culture. From the Louvre to Versailles, blossoming lavender fields to the elegant seaside ambiance, discovering France offers a unique perspective of national and greater European heritage, while bringing to light the endless charms for which the country is known.

Learn more: France Vacations & Tours • France Travel Guide

Travel to Europe offers a unique lens on history, culture, and cuisine. From Moorish castles to fairytale villages, ancient ruins to mouthwatering wines, you have endless opportunities to experience where national cultures and a greater European heritage converge. Consider whether one country or several are right for your trip or search our top places to visit in Europe.

Find more inspiration to customize your vacation with more sample Europe tours or enjoy new perspectives on things you can do with our Europe travel guide.