Maximizing Your European Adventure: 10-Day Itineraries for Every Traveler

Europe is amazing—the culture, the food, the history, the architecture. It’s no wonder that some of the most visited places on Earth are in Europe. However, many travelers don’t go to Europe because they think they need weeks to pull it off. I’m here to tell you that you can have an amazing Europe trip in just 10 days, which usually only requires you to take about one week off work if you do it right.

When my wife Ally and I first started traveling internationally, we didn’t have weeks and weeks of vacation time to blow. We would take these quick trips to Europe using only one week of vacation time. Typically, we’d leave on a Friday night, land Saturday morning, and stay through the following weekend, coming home Sunday. So that’s like a nine-night, 10-day trip. We rarely try to tackle an entire country in 10 days—that’s a disservice to you and the country. Assume you’ll come back and go a little deeper by traveling to specific regions.

In this blog post, I want to share seven of my absolute favorite 10-day Europe trip itineraries.

Northern Italy: A Journey Through Culture and Cuisine

First up is what we’ve always called our Northern Italy trip. We caught a cheap flight deal for roundtrip tickets to Milan and built an itinerary that goes in a clockwise loop between Milan, Venice, Florence, and the Cinque Terre. Each stop was connected by short, easy train rides.

Milan: The Heart of Fashion and History

Fly into the hustle of Milan for a day. The Duomo is unmissable with its spires reaching up like hands in prayer. This city is also the place to see The Last Supper, but make sure you book your tickets in advance. We enjoyed renting bikes and riding them around the city.

Venice: The City of Canals

Next, we caught a train to Venice. On our way, we learned more about how Parmigiano Reggiano cheese is made. Once in Venice, explore the canals, bridges, and hidden alleyways. I highly recommend the Doge’s Palace Secret Tours to uncover some more of Venice’s history. Take a day trip to the vibrant islands of Murano and Burano, and of course, there’s St. Mark’s Basilica. The key to Venice is letting yourself get lost—it’s part of the charm. And yeah, Venice is touristy, but there are some amazing spots that we love away from the crowds. No regrets splurging on a gondola ride either.

Florence: The Cradle of the Renaissance

Next, catch a train to the heart of the Renaissance in Florence. This is my wife Ally’s absolute favorite city. Spend time with Michelangelo’s David at the Academia, marvel at the Uffizi Gallery’s collection, and climb the Duomo for city views that’ll stay with you forever. Don’t forget to wander across the river to Oltrarno. Trust me on this—dine at La Chingale Bianco; your taste buds will thank you. And if you ask politely, the owner may actually take you through the kitchen to their speakeasy-style bar next door.

Cinque Terre: Coastal Beauty

Last stop on this trip is the stunning Cinque Terre. With two days here, you can hike from town to town along the cliffside paths, with each view more breathtaking than the last. Our personal favorite, and where we based ourselves, is Vernazza. This is actually where the Pixar movie Luca is based. Amazing seafood here, and the region is known for white wine. We loved buying a bottle and sipping it on the sand—it was a great way to slow down. Italy’s our favorite.

Southern Italy: Rome to the Amalfi Coast

Okay, it’s so nice we’re going to talk about it twice. Here’s another great way to spend 10 days in Italy, which hinges on roundtrip flights in and out of Rome. This one goes Rome, Naples, hits Pompeii, and the gorgeous Amalfi Coast, including Sorrento, Capri, and Positano.

Rome: The Eternal City

Step back in time with visits to the Colosseum, Forum, and Capitoline Hill, where the echoes of ancient Rome still linger. The Pantheon is an amazing marvel of architecture. Vatican City and St. Peter’s Basilica are must-visits, and you can’t miss the Borghese Gallery for incredible art. My personal favorite in Rome is the food. I’ve got a favorite spot in Trastevere I cannot wait to get back to. Rome requires a good amount of time, to be honest with you. We spent four nights and could definitely do more.

Naples and Pompeii: Ancient Wonders

Next, grab a train from Rome to Naples. We’ll connect here to get to our next destinations, but first, let’s check out the city. I highly recommend Rick Steves’ Naples City Walk to immerse yourself in Naples’ vibrant streets. And this is the birthplace of pizza—you’ve got to have pizza here if you can. Next, hop on the slick and easy Circumvesuviana train to Pompeii. Frozen in time by Mount Vesuvius’ eruption, Pompeii offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient Roman life. Walking its streets is like stepping back 2,000 years, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in history.

Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast: Coastal Bliss

Then it’s on to Sorrento for a few nights of coastal bliss. Sorrento is a chill and easy home base for exploring the Amalfi Coast, and it’s got this wonderful laid-back Southern Italian charm—plus lemons the size of footballs. I’m not kidding. The best part is it’s an easy boat ride from here to the Isle of Capri, which is totally worth exploring, and a quick scenic bus ride to the beautiful Positano. Now, in my opinion, you must see Positano. We actually stayed in Positano, but if I could do it again, I would just day trip there. Positano is beautiful, but it was overcrowded, touristy, and in my opinion, very overpriced. From Sorrento, we just retraced our steps, had one more amazing night in Rome, and headed home. All good things must come to an end.

Bavaria: Castles, Beer, and Natural Beauty

So now, let’s leave Italy behind and head to another amazing pocket of the world full of medieval castles, natural beauty, and probably my favorite food and Beer—Bavaria. For the uninitiated, Bavaria is a specific region in southern Germany, which is very distinct from the rest of the country. Roundtrip flights to Munich pave the way for a seamless Bavarian adventure, whisking you from Munich’s historic charm and famed Beer halls to the enchanting castles around Füssen and the natural beauty of Garmisch-Partenkirchen.

Munich: Beer Halls and History

Our journey starts and ends in Munich, the capital of Bavaria. Dive into the city’s heritage at Marienplatz, indulge in culinary delights at the Viktualienmarkt, and let the Gothic architecture of the Residenz inspire you. Highly recommend touring the Residenz. And no Munich visit is complete without a frothy Beer at a German Beer hall. If you’ve never been to Munich, you should at least check out Hofbräuhaus, but there are so many great Beer halls in Munich. Personal favorites of ours are the Augustiner Stammhaus and Augustiner-Keller. Munich is also home to some amazing Christmas markets, which is a magical tradition where town squares transform into winter wonderlands filled with festive stalls, lights, and the aroma of mulled wine and gingerbread.

Füssen: Castles and Scenic Drives

Munich is also only about an hour from the Dachau Concentration Camp, which was among the first Nazi concentration camps and actually served as a template for many that followed. It’s a stark reminder of what our species is capable of, and I think an important visit for anyone who can handle it. Leaving Munich, let’s head to nearby Füssen, which is a charming Bavarian town known for violin making. It’s a quaint home base for exploring the castles in Schwangau—the Hohenschwangau Castle and, of course, built by Mad King Ludwig, the majestic Neuschwanstein. Also, don’t sleep on the sausage stands on the way to Neuschwanstein—might be the best sausage that I have ever tasted. Füssen is also situated well for a fun road trip through the mountains. We rented a car—well, we thought it was going to be a car; it was actually this diesel minivan. We drove this bad boy to Oberammergau, which is home of incredible wood carvings and the Passion Play. It’s also worth exploring the beautiful Abbey and finally Linderhof Palace, which is like a mini Versailles.

Garmisch-Partenkirchen: Alpine Bliss

Now we head to Garmisch-Partenkirchen, which is a picturesque Alpine town that once played home to the Winter Olympics. Nestled at the foot of Germany’s highest peak, the Zugspitze, this charming destination offers more than just a postcard-perfect backdrop. You can take the cable car up to Zugspitze’s summit, where breathtaking panoramic views await. And if you’re a skier or snowboarder, hit the slopes for a few runs and a mid-mountain Beer. Garmisch is also a cute place to slow down. When we were traveling full-time, we actually spent about 10 days in Garmisch over Christmas as a way to slow down, relax, and enjoy. After you’ve rested up, take an easy train back to Munich, hit one last Beer hall, and head home.

Austria: The Elegance of Vienna and Beyond

Now let’s embark on an unforgettable journey through Austria, where the elegance of Vienna meets the natural beauty of Salzburg, with a stop in the fairy-tale town of Hallstatt. This 10-day adventure will take you through some of Europe’s most breathtaking landscapes and culturally rich cities.

Vienna: The City of Music and Imperial Splendor

Start your adventure in Vienna, the city of music, cafes, and imperial architecture. Spend your days exploring the grandeur of the Hofburg Palace and the beauty of Schönbrunn Palace and its gardens. Immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant cafe culture. One time, Ally and I visited five Vienna cafes in a single day. We made a video for this channel, ate nothing but coffee and cake, and I think I still have a headache. Honestly, we love Vienna so much. It’s consistently ranked one of the best places to live in the world, and this was also the first international city that we brought our daughter to—very special. Vienna is also only a short train ride from the capital of Slovakia, Bratislava. It’s an easy day trip to visit a charming city with a historic castle, compact old town, charming vibes, and a cool bridge that looks kind of like a UFO.

Hallstatt: A Fairy-Tale Village

Next, make your way to Hallstatt, a picture-perfect village nestled between the lake and towering Alps. Spend a day exploring the salt mines and take the funicular up to the Skywalk for awe-inspiring views. Over-tourism has actually become a problem here, so you’ll want to think about the timing of your visit. It’s worth seeing in my opinion, but mind the seasonality because it can get crowded.

Salzburg: The Birthplace of Mozart

Conclude your journey in Salzburg, which is the birthplace of Mozart and the backdrop for “The Sound of Music.” Dive into the city’s rich musical heritage and stroll through the old town with its baroque architecture. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site that feels like stepping back in time. Salzburg is also home to our absolute favorite Beer hall of all time, Augustiner Bräustübl. Very sorry if I butchered the pronunciation, but this place is amazing. It’s been operating since 1621 and is Austria’s biggest Beer hall—a must-visit in my opinion. Salzburg doesn’t require much time, but it’s a cool place and an easy train ride to Munich where you can catch your flight home or continue exploring Bavaria as we mentioned before.

Central Europe: Prague and Budapest

How about a trip focused on two of Central Europe’s must-see cities? Next on our European escapade, we head to Prague and Budapest, each city with its own unique charm and history creating a mesmerizing blend of old-world allure and vibrant street life. This trip is best done as an open jaw, flying into one and home from the other. Neither of these cities are very hard to get to.

Prague: The Czech Republic’s Crown Jewel

Prague is a labyrinth of cobblestone streets that wind past centuries-old buildings under the watchful gaze of Prague Castle. It’s also home to the world-famous astronomical clock, the oldest still-operating clock in the world. Its hourly chime is quite the spectacle and draws huge crowds. I think it’s worth seeing—just watch your pockets if you know what I’m saying. Stroll across the Charles Bridge at dawn or dusk for some picture-perfect moments, or go for a run with a local running guide. I did this a few years ago, and it was awesome. Beyond these iconic sites, delve deeper into Prague’s rich cultural tapestry at the Josefov neighborhood, the historic Jewish Quarter. Here, amidst the thought-provoking museums and the hauntingly beautiful Old Jewish Cemetery, you’re transported into the heart of Prague’s storied Jewish heritage. Then venture into the city’s vibrant art scene with a visit to a black-light theater. This unique performance art is a Prague specialty and combines black lights and fluorescent costumes to create some really great illusions. For a taste of local life, wander into Lesser Town to discover cozy cafes and pubs where the air is rich with the aroma of Czech cuisine and freshly poured Pilsners. Don’t leave without trying a delicious chimney cake—perfect for a sweet treat as you explore. If you’re the type that enjoys physical activity as one of your excursions, a very fun day trip was taking a guided tour out to Bohemian Switzerland National Park for a hike.

Budapest: Hungary’s Enigmatic Capital

From Prague, we’re headed to Budapest. Now, you’ve got a couple of options—you could either take a longer but scenic train ride, or there are extremely affordable flights via Ryanair. Your call. The Ryanair flight will take like an hour, and the train ride will take like six. Budapest was once two separate cities—Buda and Pest—separated by the Danube River. The Hungarian Parliament Building is a sight to behold. Its neo-gothic architecture is a symbol of national pride and a must-visit for its stunning facade and equally impressive interiors. Budapest has excellent public transportation, and getting around is a breeze, which is good because the city is pretty big. Consider grabbing a multi-day pass for unlimited access to metros, buses, and trams to make your journey easier. Immerse yourself in the city’s unique vibe by exploring District 7, the Jewish Quarter, renowned for its famous ruin pubs. These once-abandoned buildings have been ingeniously transformed into lively bars and eateries. No visit to Budapest would be complete without experiencing the thermal baths, a tradition that dates back to Roman times. The city is dotted with all kinds of relaxing baths, but the Széchenyi Bath stands out as Europe’s largest medicinal bath. There’s a variety of pools with different temperatures and settings—it’s a great place to unwind and relax.

Spain: Tapas, Flamenco, and Sunshine

Next, we’re headed to Spain, known for tapas, music, art, and a work-to-live rather than live-to-work laid-back culture. We’ll visit bustling Madrid, marvel at the Andalusian hilltowns like Granada and Ronda, and then soak up the sunshine with a side of Flamenco in Sevilla, with an Optional Foray into Morocco.

Madrid: Spain’s Vibrant Capital

Our journey starts in Spain’s vibrant capital, Madrid. Immerse yourself in the world-renowned art at the Prado Museum, enjoy the lively atmosphere of Plaza Mayor, and embark on a tapas crawl to indulge in Spanish culinary delights. Somehow, Madrid is the city in Europe I visited more than any other. It was the first European city I ever set foot in, and somehow I always end up back here. I love Madrid.

Granada: The Alhambra’s Breathtaking Beauty

Next, head to Granada to marvel at the Alhambra’s breathtaking beauty. The intricate details of this Moorish palace and the panoramic views from the Alhambra are truly unforgettable. When we were here a couple of years ago, there was a dust storm coming from the Sahara, and everything was covered in mud rain.

Ronda: Dramatic Scenery and Deep-Rooted Traditions

En route to our next destination, be sure to stop in Ronda. Ronda is famous for two things: the Puente Nuevo, which is an imposing bridge that arches over the dramatic El Tajo Gorge, and its ancient bullring, one of the oldest in Spain, which is dedicated to the traditional spectacle of bullfighting. Together, they capture the essence of Ronda’s breathtaking scenery and deep-rooted cultural traditions. I’m so glad we stopped in Ronda.

Sevilla: The Soul of Southern Spain

Now on to my favorite place in all of Spain—the vibrant heart of Andalusia, Sevilla. Alive with the rhythms of Flamenco and scented by orange blossoms, Sevilla represents the soul of southern Spain. Sevilla is a mosaic of cultural influences from its time under Moorish rule to its discovery of the New World. It’s a city where history is etched in every corner, especially within the majestic landmarks of Plaza de España and the intricate Real Alcazar. Meander through Barrio Santa Cruz, where the labyrinth streets lead to hidden plazas and lively tapas bars showcasing the city’s penchant for leisure and conviviality. Amidst its Gothic and Moorish splendor stands the Sevilla Cathedral, an architectural marvel and a testament to its religious significance. No trip to Sevilla is complete without taking in a Flamenco performance—or two, or three. We get lost every time we try to find this unassuming place, but as a musician for over 20 years, this place is easily a top-three musical experience for me, hands down.

Optional Foray into Morocco

From here, you’ve got a couple of options. You could make your way back to Madrid to catch a flight home or continue southward into Morocco. In 2018, we made our way to Marrakesh, Morocco, first by grabbing a ferry across the Strait of Gibraltar and