Are you looking for a list of the best one-week in Europe itineraries? I have you covered!
No matter what kind of traveler you are, this list has a trip you’ll love. These best one-week Europe trips will take you to Italy, France, England, Spain, and beyond!
Europe is a vast continent with so many different and unique countries. That is part of what makes it such an awesome place to spend a week. You can land anywhere and find a way to fill your time.
These best Europe itineraries for 7 days are all amazing options for your next vacation.
There are trips for those who like to have a home base and then make day trips.
If you want a week-long road trip through beautiful landscapes, there’s a 7 days in Europe itinerary for you too. There are even packed itineraries for those who don’t like to sit still.
You will have so much fun spending 1 week backpacking Europe no matter how you do it!
I have spent so much time in Europe in a variety of countries so I know all the best tips for planning an exciting 7-day European vacation!
It’s easy to do Europe in one week with any of these amazing itinerary ideas.
Get ready to plan the best European trip itinerary!
One Week In Europe: 15 Europe Trip Itinerary Ideas
Northern Italy
Highlights
- Shopping in Milan
- Exploring Lake Como
- Explore the Western and Eastern Dolomites
- Reenact Romeo and Juliet in Verona
- Wander the Alleys of Venice
Northern Italy is truly perfect for a week in Europe. If you are looking for a trip that is packed with amazing opportunities, then you’ll love the ultimate Northern Italy itinerary.
Fly into Milan and spend a few hours exploring the home of some of the most famous couture brands. You can easily do Milan in one day.
From Milan, you’ll head north to Lake Como. Lake Como is one of the most beautiful lakes in Italy with many picturesque towns on its shores.
Continue by heading to the Western and Eastern Dolomites where you’ll discover breathtaking views. You will love hiking in the Dolomites! I am obsessed with this region!
From there, head to Verona and reenact scenes from Shakespeare’s most famous play, Romeo and Juliet.
End your Italy trip in Venice, one of the most iconic and romantic cities in Italy! There are so many things to do in Venice but since it is small, you only need 1 to 2 days here.
This is one of the best 1 week Europe trips if you want to see a mix of iconic and underrated Italy.
Where to Stay:
Milan | Verona | Venice
Extra Resources:
Beautiful Places to Visit in Northern Italy
2 Days in Venice Itinerary
Italy Packing List
Intro To Ireland
Highlights
- Explore Dublin
- Kiss the Blarney Stone
- Drive the Ring of Kerry
- Visit Killarney
- Check Out the Cliffs of Moher
This intro to Ireland itinerary focuses on exploring the South of Ireland. It truly is one of the best one week trips in Europe!
Begin by flying into Dublin. You’ll want to check out the Temple Bar neighborhood for all things Guinness. While in Dublin, you’ll also want to stop by the breathtaking Trinity College.
Next, make your way to Cork, and along the way stop at Rock of Cashel and Hore Abbey.
You may also want to check out the best things to do in Cobh. It is full of colorful houses and just 30 minutes outside of Cork.
You can’t see Southern Ireland and not kiss the Blarney Stone! Outside of Cork, the Blarney Castle is the home of the Blarney Stone. Spend the day exploring the estate, and of course, kiss the Blarney Stone.
Next, drive the Ring of Kerry which is a path of very narrow roads that allow you to see some beautiful sights. Continue the amazing driving vistas as you head out to Killarney.
Killarney itself is also full of attractions like the Killarney National Park, the Ross Castle, and the Torc Waterfall.
Finish your Ireland road trip by heading out to the Cliffs of Moher where you’ll experience the famous, breathtaking views.
When you are planning a week in Europe itinerary, you should 100% consider Ireland. I love Ireland and keep being drawn in by its beauty!
Where to Stay:
Dublin | Cork | Killarney
Extra Resources:
Tips for Driving in Ireland
Budgeting a Trip to Ireland
Best Time to Visit Ireland
London and Paris
Highlights
- Explore London’s Free Activities
- Take in Hyde Park
- Breakfast at The Ritz and a Tour of Buckingham Palace
- Visit the Eiffel Tower and Shop at the Champs Élysées
- Take a Day Trip to Versailles
This London itinerary is combined with a stop in Paris for the ultimate 7 days in Europe.
On your first day, take advantage of the many free activities London has to offer. Explore the Museum of Natural History, visit the Victoria and Albert Museum, and take your picture at Picadilly Circus and Trafalgar Square.
When you explore London make sure to head out to the beautiful Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens.
You’ll also want to see some of the classic London highlights, like breakfast at the Ritz and a tour of Buckingham Palace.
When you’re done exploring London take the Eurostar to Paris. It is a stress-free, 2-hour train ride that takes you under the English Channel.
Some of the coolest things to do in Paris are shopping at the Champs Élysées, seeing a show at Moulin Rouge, and exploring the Louvre. Of course, you will want to see the Eiffel Tower!
There are also plenty of great day trips from Paris you can take to see more of France. Hop on the train to visit the grand Palace of Versailles.
Your one week in Europe itinerary will be full of classic sights if you spend it exploring London and Paris. These are some of my favorite cities, and I know you will fall in love with them too!
Extra Resources:
4-Day London Itinerary
Where to Stay in London
4 Days in Paris Itinerary
Best Time to Visit Paris
Rome, Florence, and Venice
Highlights
- Explore Ancient Rome
- Visit the Vatican
- Make a Wish at the Trevi Fountain
- Visit the Florence Cathedral
- Ride in a Gondola in the Canals of Venice
If you want to hit the ultimate highlights of Itay, then this trip through Rome, Florence, and Venice is perfect for you. This itinerary is great for one week in Europe by train.
Because there are so many attractions in Rome, you’ll be spending most of your trip there.
Spend a day exploring the sights of ancient Rome. Make stops at the Colosseum, the Arch of Constantine, Palatine Hill, and the Roman Forum.
Don’t forget to make a wish at the Trevi Fountain, climb the Spanish Steps, and explore Castle Sant’Angelo.
Even travelers who aren’t religious will want to take a day to explore the Vatican City. There you’ll want to take a tour of St. Peter’s Basilica and the dome.
Next, travel farther into Italy and spend a day or two exploring the beautiful city of Florence.
There are so many things to do in Florence! Visit the Florence Cathedral, walk to the Baptistry of St. John, and admire the art at the Uffizi Palace and Gallery.
Make sure to stop by the Galleria dell’Accademia to see Michelangelo’s David!
Your last stop is Venice, and of course, you’ll want to take a gondola ride in the canals. Also check out St. Mark’s Square and Basilica, shop for glass trinkets in Murano, and stop by Burano for some colorful sights.
You will love this 1 week in Europe itinerary!
Where to Stay:
Rome | Florence | Venice
Extra Resources:
4 Days in Rome Itinerary
How to Get From Florence to Venice
One Day in Venice
Southern Germany
Highlights
- Explore Rothenburg ob de Tauber
- Visit Neuschwanstein Castle
- Grab a Beer in Munich
- Explore the Black Forest
The most popular way to explore Southern Germany during one week in Europe is by taking a road trip.
The first option is driving Germany’s Romantic Road, or Romantische Straße. This is one of my top central Europe trip recommendations!
Start this road trip by visiting Germany’s wine country. From there, drive through beautiful Medieval towns, like Rothenburg ob de Tauber.
You’ll end your Romantic Road Germany trip with a visit to Neuschwanstein Castle in Schwangau. This 18th-century landmark is known as the Fairytale Castle and even inspired the Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland.
The second road trip option starts in Munich where you can grab a beer and enjoy the amazing Gothic architecture of the city.
As you continue to drive, you’ll find yourself near the Alps, in Schwangau, and eventually in Germany’s famous Black Forest.
There you can take a few days to enjoy one of the many spas, go hiking, and explore one of the many lakes in the area.
You will agree this is the best 1 week vacation in Europe!
Where to Stay:
Rothenburg ob de Tauber | Munich
Extra Resources:
Germany Road Trip Itinerary
Towns in Germany Out of a Fairytale
Beautiful Castles in Germany
Highlights of Iceland
Highlights
- Drive the Golden Circle
- Explore Reykjavik
- Stop Along the Ring Road
- Admire Glaciers
- Relax in the Blue Lagoon
This Iceland road trip can be done in 5 days, but with two extra days, you can spend a bit more time exploring. Iceland is one of my all-time favorite places in Europe!
Start your trip by driving Iceland’s famous Golden Circle. As you drive, you’ll see beautiful geysers, the Gullfoss Waterfall, horses, and more. From there, head to Reykjavik.
In Reykjavik, there are so many awesome things to do. Explore the Phallological Museum, visit the famous Hallgrimskirkja Church, or find awesome deals at the Kolaportid Flea Market.
After you explore Reykjavik, you’ll want to start making the drive out to Vik on the Ring Road.
On the way to Vik, stop at the Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls and the Sólheimasandur Airplane Wreck.
Stay the night in Vik, and then continue to Hofn. While you drive, stop and admire a black sand beach, epic glaciers, basalt columns, and Skaftafell National Park.
In Hofn, explore more glaciers and even a glacier lagoon. Stay a day or two in Hofn and explore the area before you head back to Reykjavik to end your journey.
Once back in Reykjavik, make sure you stop at the Blue Lagoon to relax before your flight home.
If you love nature, you cannot miss out on this European vacation itinerary!
Extra Resources:
5 Days in Iceland Road Trip Itinerary
Iceland on a Budget
Southern England
Highlights
- Explore Iconic Sights in London
- Wander the Streets of Oxford
- Enjoy the Beauty of the Cotswolds
- Find History in Bath
Start this 1-week road trip in Europe by flying into London. There are so many things to do in this major tourist city!
Check out the world-class museums (many of which are free), wander the beautiful parks, and photograph famous sights light Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, and the London Eye.
From London, either rent a car or take the train to Oxford. This college city is drenched in history and amazing architecture. If you are a Harry Potter fan, make sure to tour the filming locations here.
After Oxford, I highly suggest renting a car because it will be so much easier to explore all the picturesque small towns of the Cotswolds.
There are so many beautiful places to visit in the Cotswolds. Having a car allows you to have the freedom to see it all since this area is not as well connected by train.
Bath sits at the southern point of the Cotswolds. It has been a tourist destination for hundreds of years, drawing people in because of the Roman baths.
Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this city is a beautiful place to explore and enjoy a spa day.
Where to Stay:
London | Oxford | Burford
Extra Resources:
Where to Stay in London
Best Time to Visit London
Pretty Places in Southern England
South of France
Highlights
- Explore Romantic Bordeaux
- Enjoy historic Lyon
- Discover Chambéry
This magical South of France trip will take you to some of the best parts of the country.
Start in Bordeaux, the hub of France’s wine-growing region and a port city. There are so many things to do in Bordeaux including beautiful public gardens, wineries, and historical sites.
When you leave Bordeaux, make your way to the historic city of Lyon.
While you drive, make time to stop in Rocamadour. It is a stunning city that makes you feel like you just stepped into the set of a fantasy movie. It’s worth the detour as you drive to Lyon.
In Lyon, you’ll want to check out one of the many historical sites. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has a history dating back to the Romans.
Lyon has a piece of architecture or art for every major historical period, so you may want to spend a few days exploring. When you’ve discovered all you can in Lyon, make your way to the last city on this itinerary.
Chambéry is a small Alpine town in Southeastern France that is full of charm. Enjoy more history and the beauty of the Alps.
If you are looking to spend one week in Europe, you can’t go wrong exploring the South of France!
Where to Stay:
Bordeaux | Lyon | Chambéry
Extra Resources:
France Road Trip Itinerary
Fairytale Castles in France
Croatia and Montenegro
Highlights
- Soak in the Views of Split
- Explore Historic Dubrovnik
- Fall in Love With Kotor
The coast of the Adriatic Sea is a beautiful and underrated region of Europe. You will want to rent a car for this gorgeous road trip from Split, Croatia, to Kotor, Montenegro.
Start in Split, the second-largest city in Croatia. Wander among beautiful architecture, take a boat tour, and eat fresh seafood.
Next, drive down the coast towards Dubrovnik, making stops along the way to take in views of the water.
In Dubrovnik, you will love walking through the Old Town and along the city walls. Discover fun beaches, sin local wine, and find Game of Thrones filming locations at King’s Landing.
Then cross the border into Montenegro and make your way to Kotor.
Nestled on the Bay of Kotor, this historic town is a great destination if you love hiking to great views, admiring architecture, petting stray cats, or relaxing at the beach.
You can fly home from the Podgorica Airport in Montenegro or drive the five hours back to Split. Since the destinations are so close, this itinerary is perfect for a short Europe trip.
Where to Stay:
Split | Dubrovnik | Kotor
Extra Resources:
Best Road Trips in Europe
Best Summer Destinations in Europe
Incredible Switzerland
Highlights
- Admire Art in Zurich
- Explore Lucerne
- Take the Chocolate Train in Montreux
- Go to the Headquarters of the United Nations in Geneva
If you want to spend one week in Europe exploring Switzerland you’ll want to start in Zurich. Take time to walk the Lake Zurich Promenade, visit the Museum of Art, or one of the 100 art galleries.
From Zurich, travel to Lucerne. Some things you should do include taking the Golden Round Trip, visiting the Chapel Bridge and Water Tower, and even just walking around the city is sure to be a treat.
When you make your way from Lucerne to Montreux there are tons of cities and small towns you can stop in.
If you have the time to do a Switzerland road trip, then definitely stop and enjoy them. If you don’t have the time, then head straight to Montreux.
Montreux is a small town outside of Geneva. It’s the perfect place to recharge on the last leg of your trip before ending in Geneva.
In Montreux, make sure you ride the Chocolate Train. It’s a quintessential Swiss experience where you’ll get to sample cheese and chocolate!
After you’ve recharged, head into Geneva to end your trip.
In Geneva, soak up Swiss culture at one of the many museums or seasonal festivals. I also recommend touring the headquarters of the United Nations.
Exploring Switzerland is perfect for a Europe trip in 7 days, and you’re bound to have a good time.
Where to Stay:
Zurich | Lucerne | Geneva
Extra Resources:
Switzerland Road Trip Itinerary
Pretty Towns in Switzerland
Barcelona, Montserrat, and Costa Brava
Highlights
- Meander Through Park Güell
- Visit La Sagrada Familia
- Take the Train to Montserrat
- Explore the Parks of Costa Brava
For one of the best Euro trips, travel to one of Spain’s most popular destinations is Barcelona. It is a beautiful coastal city with some amazing things to do.
Plan to spend a few days just in Barcelona and explore. Then I suggest planning a day trip to Montserrat and Costa Brava.
In Barcelona, there are a few things you will absolutely want to see. Walk through Park Güell, a public park full of beautiful gardens and mosaics built into the architecture.
A visit to Barcelona also has to include a visit to the La Sagrada Familia basilica, the Gothic Quarter, and the Picasso Museum. Enjoy a tapas and wine tour too.
After Barcelona, take the train to Montserrat. One of the coolest things here is the Abadia de Montserrat, a Benedictine Monastery. It is built against the side of a large mountain and they offer several different tours to attract travelers of all kinds.
The last stop on your one-week Europe tour of Southern Spain needs to be Costa Brava.
Costa Brava is a coastal region full of interesting things to do. Stroll through the Jardines de Santa Clotilde or explore Surrealism at the Salvador Dali House.
No matter what you decide to do in Costa Brava, it is a perfect way to end your week in Europe vacation.
Where to Stay:
Barcelona | Montserrat | Cadaqués
Extra Resources:
Most Romantic Cities in Europe
Lisbon and the Algarve
Highlights
- Explore the Alfama District
- Admire the Mosteiro dos Jeronimos
- Go swimming at Praia da Falésia
- Walk on the Boardwalk at Algar Seco
Portugal is a beautiful country that is amazing if you are looking to spend 7 days in Europe.
While there are so many great places to explore in Portugal, on this trip I suggest you focus on Lisbon and the Algarve. Lisbon is one of the most romantic cities in Europe, and the Algarve is full of beautiful beaches.
Lisbon offers so many great things to do!
If you love architecture, make sure to explore the Alfama district, a neighborhood in Lisbon. It is full of Arabic and Gothic influences, perfect for a unique walking tour. For another Gothic architectural marvel, tour the Mosteiro dos Jeronimos as well.
After exploring Lisbon, I suggest spending the rest of your trip in the Algarve. This is the Southernmost region of Portugal and is known for its beautiful, sandy beaches.
Make sure to go swimming at one of the most beautiful beaches in the Algarve: Praia da Falésia. It has stunning views of sandy cliff sides and the Atlantic Ocean.
For more epic views, I also suggest taking a walk on the boardwalk at Algar Seco. This section of coastline has natural rocky caves as well as a boardwalk that allows you to get better views of the landscape.
This is the best itinerary for Europe in a week during winter because the weather is warm and prices are lower.
Extra Resources:
Best Time to Visit Europe
Best Places to Visit in Europe in February
The French Riviera
Highlights
- Spend Time at the Casino at Monte-Carlo
- Explore the Cours Saleya Market in Nice
- Admire the Yachts in Saint-Tropez
- Marvel at the Buildings in Menton
The French Riviera is one of the most beautiful parts of France. It never gets too cold, its summers are hot and gorgeous, and it is full of fun things to do.
In the 1920s, the area got a reputation for being the go-to vacation spot for the fabulous, and ever since then, it’s kept that reputation.
If you want to get a little bit of that high roller experience, then you’ll want to spend a night enjoying the Casino at Monte Carlo.
You can gamble if you want, but if that isn’t your thing that’s okay too. The building itself is gorgeous and you can spend hours just walking around, soaking up the atmosphere, and admiring the casino.
After a night at the casino, take a stroll through the Cours Saleya market in Nice. You’ll be able to buy fresh produce, sample local dishes, and experience Parisian culture while you stroll through the stalls.
In the afternoon, drive down to Saint-Tropez. While there, admire the beautiful coastal city and the luxury yachts in the many marinas. Walk through the city, grab a bite to eat, and just relax in the sun.
Your last stop on your French Riviera itinerary should be the painted, coastal town of Menton, which is on the border with Italy.
It is a beautiful little town right on the edge of the ocean. All of the buildings are painted in bright colors that resemble the sunset and you’ll love strolling along the beach and admiring the view.
This Europe travel itinerary for one week is perfect for anyone wanting to spend time by the sea!
Where to Stay:
Monte-Carlo | Nice | Menton
Extra Resources:
Scotland NC500 Road Trip
Highlights
- Look for Nessie
- Walk Through Time at Dunrobin Castle
- Stroll on Coldbackie Beach
- Explore Ullapool
The Scotland NC500 road trip takes you through the epic and famous Scottish Highlands. Start your trip in Inverness where you can spend the afternoon at Loch Ness on the search for Nessie.
From Inverness, you’ll continue heading north along the coast to Dornoch. Just outside of Dornoch, in Sutherland, is the stunning Dunrobin Castle.
You’ll feel like you’ve stepped through time as you explore this castle that has portions dating back to 1275.
As you continue to drive north, there are tons of amazing places to stop and admire the landscape, ancient buildings, and cozy little towns.
About halfway through your trip, you’ll find yourself near Coldbackie Beach. One of the northernmost Scottish beaches, it is a beautiful white sand beach that remains largely untouched. It is the perfect spot to take a break, stretch your legs, and enjoy the scenery.
Next, begin your way back to Inverness on the loop that is the NC500. Just before you get to Inverness, there is a small village named Ullapool.
It is a charming Highlands village and is worth the stop. You’ll be greeted by friendly locals and have the opportunity to try one of the amazing restaurants with local fare.
By the time you get back to Inverness, you will have gotten to enjoy and sample everything that makes the Scottish Highlands such a special place to spend one week in Europe.
Where to Stay:
Inverness | Coldbackie
Extra Resources:
Scotland Road Trip Itinerary
Prettiest Towns in Scotland
Tips For Your 1 Week Europe Trip
Whether this is your first trip to Europe or hundreth, here are some of my top tips for a great vacation!
- Choose a Focus Area: With only a week, consider focusing on one region or a couple of nearby cities. This will help you avoid spending too much time in transit or being overwhelmed.
- Prioitize Cultural Highlights: Include a mix of popular landmarks and local hidden gems. Visit museums, historical sites, and experience local cuisine.
- Take Day Trips: Consider short day trips to nearby towns or countryside to get a more rounded experience of the region. This is one of the best ways to explore nearby Europe vacation spots.
- Utilize the Trains: Europe’s train network is extensive, affordable, and easy. This is the best way to see Europe in a week! Consider getting a rail pass if planning multiple train journeys.
- Fly With Budget Airlines: For longer distances, look into budget airlines, but be mindful of baggage restrictions and additional fees.
- Book Accommodations in Advance: Especially in popular destinations, to book ahead of time to secure the best rates and locations. Apart from hotels, consider hostels, B&Bs, or vacation rentals for a more local experience.
- Know the Currency: While many countries in Europe use the euro, not all do. Check the currency for each country when you go to Europe.
- Cash vs. Card: Have some cash for smaller establishments or markets, but credit cards are widely accepted. Check if your credit card has a foreign transaction fee.
- Learn Basic Phrases: Knowing simple greetings and phrases in the local language can be helpful. Hello and thank you alone can go a long way.
- Use Language Apps: Use translation apps to help with communication barriers. You can download languages offline on the Google Translate app to use for signs, menus, and conversation.
- Know Cultural Etiquette: Do a little research about the cultural etiquette of the places you will visit. This will help you understand and connect with the locals while showing respect.
- Bring a Travel Adapter: You’ll need a universal travel adapter for your electronic devices.
- Prepare Mobile Data: Consider using a local SIM card or a roaming plan for internet access.
These one week itineraries for Europe are all packed with amazing adventures and beautiful sites.
If you are on a budget for a week vacation in Europe, consider traveling in the off-season!
Have you ever spent 7 days in Europe? If so, where did you go and what did you do? Please let me know in the comments!
Next, check out the best hidden gems in Europe! Have fun during your trip to Europe!
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