Plan Your European Itinerary 3 Weeks: Top Cities, Routes & Tips (Free Itinerary included)

A European itinerary 3 weeks long is the best way to see the best of Europe: time to hit iconic landmarks, taste local culture, and still enjoy moments of relaxation without feeling rushed. 

A 2 weeks plan is a popular option for first-time visitors. The 3 weeks Itinerary, on the other hand, offer a more comprehensive experience. You can see multiple cities at a comfortable pace, each place with its own incredible landmarks, food, and vibe.

To help you see the best of Europe in 21 days, we’ve designed three popular routes, which balance both world-famous highlights with quiet, local moments. Add your own personal twist, and you’ll have a trip of a lifetime. 

Not sure where to start? Download CABINZERO’s 3 Week Europe Itinerary Planner and see how each 21 day Europe itinerary compares to build a journey that’s just right for you.

Are you ready? Let’s dive in.

What Is The Best Time To Visit Europe?

The best time to visit Europe is late spring (May to early June) and early autumn (September to October). During this shoulder season, you can enjoy milder weather and explore top attractions without the summer rush.

What's the cheapest month to go to Europe? The best time to go is from November through March, when long-haul flights are normally cheapest.

What is the most beautiful season in Europe? You can visit the continent in spring for blooming gardens (like tulip season in the Netherlands) or autumn for fall foliage (regions like Tuscany and Bavaria).

Europe Travel Tips

How to spend 3 weeks in Europe? Let's be honest, a little planning goes a long way, from pacing your trip to where you stay and how you spend it. Wondering “Is 3 weeks in Europe enough?” or “How many countries to see in Europe in 3 weeks?” The answer is: absolutely!

Pacing is Key

When planning where to go in Europe for 3 weeks, pacing is key. For a multi-city European trip, you'll likely struggle to find the right rhythm. Cramming a new city intro every two days? It's doable but exhausting. You'll only scratch the surface of each destination, without truly connecting to the locals and their way of life.

Remember, the jet lag is real. So most people will need at least a full day to recover. So that's first day gone.

Moreover, moving from one city to another takes a whole day in itself. Besides the time on the train/plane, you’ll have to factor in checking in/out of hotels, finding your way around the airports/stations, packing, etc.

Thus, it is a good idea to stay 2-4 full days (3-5 nights) per major city (and more days if it serves as a base for your day trip). This gives you a good rhythm between sightseeing and not constantly being on the move.

Our Europe travel planner follows this rhythm, but feel free to adjust anything to your liking. The best pace is the one that fits your travel style.

The Eurail Global Pass

A regional express train is the best way to get around Europe.

What is the Eurail Global Pass? You can call it “the ultimate companion” for your cross-country Europe trip. With this ticket, you can simply hop on a train and travel across 33 stunning countries, from Portugal to Turkey. The two most popular options include 15 travel days within two months or 30 days of continuous travel.

Why use this Eurail Global Pass

• No labour of booking individual tickets.

• Save cost on your Europe by train itinerary.

• It's no big deal to miss a train if you have the Eurail Pass. You can simply wait for the next ride without frantic re-bookings or wasted money. 

If you follow our Central European Gem route, you’ll rely heavily on high-speed trains for hopping between destinations. This is when the Eurail Global Pass makes more sense than booking individual tickets in terms of cost and time. 

Accommodation

Split your time between luxury hotels, affordable hostels, and cheap Airbnbs on your 3-week European vacation. Low-cost options like Airbnbs or a quaint Inn can keep your budget in check. Staying in these places also gives you a cultural immersion Europe experience. You can socialise, blend in like a local, and also explore off the beaten path Europe. Then, switch to 1-2 upscale hotels to pamper yourself after long days on the road. 

Budgeting for a Long Trip

So, how much would it cost to spend 3 weeks in Europe? Not all parts of Europe hit your wallet the same way. Before you pack, let’s compare the price tags for Western, Central, and Southern Europe so you know what to expect.

Average Daily Budgets By Region (Estimate Only)

Wondering how much money for 3 weeks in Europe? We've put together some average daily budgets by region so you can get a realistic idea of what you might spend.

Note: Please note that these estimates do not include the cost of flights between cities.

Expect to spend at least 100 euros per day.

Regional Cost Breakdowns

These are just the general estimates, as there are many factors affecting the actual expenses: season, events, travel style, weather, the crowds, etc.

1. Western Europe

Western Europe is generally the most expensive region to visit, especially in major cities like Amsterdam, Paris and Zurich. So plan your 3 week Europe budget with extra funds for museums, Alpine excursions, and dining.

2. Central Europe

Prices in Central Europe are way cheaper than in Western Europe, so this region is a popular destination for budget travellers.

3. Southern Europe

Southern European destinations like Greece and Spain are also more affordable than Western Europe, especially during the off-season.

Route 1: The Western Europe Deep Dive (Culture & Alps)

On this route, you can experience 3 very different personalities of the continent: Amsterdam’s canals, Berlin's historic yet modern vibe, and Paris’s timeless romance. Your journey is not only culturally rich but also logistically practical. Fast trains between these cities are convenient, making the Amsterdam, Prague, Budapest route a great option for backpackers.

>>> For more Europe backpacking tips, you may want to check out this article.

Week 1: Amsterdam (Canals, Museums)

Canals, bikes, and cosy vibes - Amsterdam at its best. Photo credit: Karen Turner

Days 1-4: Amsterdam

Also known as the "Venice of the North", Amsterdam is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Come for canals glowing at golden hour and charming neighbourhoods. Then, get lost in the labyrinth of streets and find yourself a freshly made stroopwafel.

Best Things to Do in Amsterdam

Anne Frank House: A deeply moving and memorable stop to know the life of the German Jewish diarist and her time hidden from the Nazi. Remember to book your tickets online months in advance, as they sell out fast.

Rijksmuseum & Van Gogh Museum: You can find both on Amsterdam's Museum Square. The Rijksmuseum holds masterpieces like Rembrandt's The Night Watch, while the Van Gogh Museum showcases Vincent van Gogh's iconic works like the "Sunflowers,".

Canals: Stroll, cycle along the canals, or jump on a 1-hour cruise to see the best of Amsterdam from the water.

Jordaan District: You can wander and see the gabled building and find the hidden hofjes (inner courtyards once built as almshouses)

Vondelpark: Great for a morning walk or bike ride before checking out De Pijp and Albert Cuyp Market for street food and convivial cafés.

Where to stay in Amsterdam?

Days 5-9: Berlin

History and hustle: that's Berlin. Photo by Lichtwolke99 - stock.adobe.com

You can literally feel the weight of the past at the Berlin Wall and the Brandenburg Gate. Yet this is a city that thrives on the new, with a creative art scene and a serious food scene that make it one of a kind.

Day 10: Travel Day: From Amsterdam to Berlin

Besides flying, you could take an overnight train. This is a good way to save time. Just take a nap, then wake up at the destination and start exploring.

Best Things to Do in Berlin

East Side Gallery: Walk along the longest remaining section of the Berlin Wall and explore the murals at the open-air gallery.

Brandenburg Gate & Reichstag Building: They’re iconic landmarks to check in. Remember to book a visit (for free) to the glass dome and peek down into the debating chamber below.

Museum Island: Home to five world-renowned museums, including the Pergamon & Neues Museums. However, the Pergamon Museum is under long-term renovation, so check what's open before your visit.

Holocaust Memorial: A moving tribute to the Jewish victims of the Holocaust.

Kreuzberg & Prenzlauer Berg: Two of Berlin’s most vibrant neighbourhoods. Kreuzberg offers edgy street art and iconic Berlin nightlife, while Prenzlauer Berg has cute cafés and boutiques along its tree-lined streets.

Where to stay in Berlin?

Week 2: Days 10-14 (Alpine Adventures)

On the edge (of the Alps) in Interlaken. Photo by Zbigniew Wu on Adobe Stock

Day 10: Travel Day: From Berlin to Interlaken

How to get from Berlin to Interlaken? Well, this is the longest leg of your itinerary, so you’ll need to plan carefully:

• By Train: Train is a popular choice for this leg, which typically takes around 11 hours, with at least 1-2 changes (usually in Frankfurt or Basel). We know it's a long journey, but the scenic views in the final part into the Swiss Alps are rewarding.

• By Plane: The fastest way is to fly from Berlin to Zurich. The flight itself takes about 1.5 hours, but you should add the time for airport security to your calculation. From Zurich, you can take a train ride to Interlaken, around 2 hours. This helps cut your transit time nearly in half.

Days 11-14: Interlaken

Ready for a full week of a nature deep dive as you’re heading to Interlaken, a town sitting between two lakes. This is a perfect gateway to emerald valleys, mighty peaks, and alpine villages that you'll think are straight out of a magazine.

Best Things to Do in Interlaken

Harder Kulm: Take a funicular ride to Harder Kulm for the perfect photo op. The views over Lake Thun and Lake Brienz are second-to-none, whether you're visiting at sunrise or sunset.

Jungfraujoch: You'll find yourself on a train journey to the highest railway station in Europe. The view of the Aletsch Glacier is just jaw-dropping.

Lauterbrunnen Valley: A hiker's paradise with 72 waterfalls, so bring sturdy shoes.

Grindelwald: To get a taste of a classic Swiss alpine village!

Jungfraujoch or Schilthorn day trip: Spend a full day to immerse yourself in glacier panoramas and dine at mountain restaurants.

Canyoning, white rafting: Don’t skip these two popular Interlaken adventure sports on the Lütschine river. Otherwise, you can go lake cruising on Thun/Brienz on rest days.

Hike: You can do a chill walk by the lake, go all out on multi-day trails, or take a cable car for an easy-access, high-altitude hike.

Where to stay in Interlaken?

Week 3: Paris (Icons, Art)

Lights, art, action - Paris truly has it all. Photo by Luciano Mortula-LGM on Adobe Stock

Day 15: Travel Day: From Interlaken to Paris

A train ride is a beautiful option for this leg of your trip. You can take a Swiss rail from Interlaken to Basel (approx. 2 hours) and then a high-speed TGV to Paris (approx. 3 hours). The entire journey can take around 5.5 hours.

Again, remember that there are many things that eat into our time: finding your way to and around the stations, packing and unpacking things, checking out the hotels, catch a taxi to next accommodation, checking in, etc. so this may full well take a whole day.

Our advice is to depart Interlaken in the morning or early afternoon, so you can enjoy the final mountain views and arrive in Paris with the whole evening ahead of you. As always, book tickets early for the best prices (SBB.ch or SNCF Connect).

 Days 16-21 - Paris

Icons you know by heart, neighbourhoods that feel like movie sets, and pastries that redefine “breakfast.” Paris? Definitely one of the best cities to visit in Europe, and also an ending you’ll never forget.

Best Things to Do in Paris

Eiffel Tower: Go up the second floor for the views (be sure to book well in advance) or have a picnic on the Champ de Mars.

Louvre Museum: Get there early to see Mona Lisa and Winged Victory of Samothrace. It’s best to pace yourself as it’s a vast gallery.

Montmartre & Sacré-Cœur: The neighbourhoods have artistic squares and hilltop views. Then, you can check out Le Marais for falafel (L'As du Fallafel is highly recommended), cafes, and boutique shopping. 

Seine River Evening Cruise: Nothing beats a river cruise to see Paris landmarks under the evening lights.

Notre-Dame Cathedral: The church has finally reopened after the devastating 2019 fire. Entrance is free, so don't miss the chance to see this incredible French Gothic cathedral.

Day trip to Versailles Palace: This trip will take you back in time to the height of the French monarchy with a beautiful palace and perfectly manicured gardens (you’ll need half to a full day).

Fly Home from Paris 

It’s time to bid farewell to Europe. Flying home from Paris is super easy, thanks to its well-connected airports and train stations. You can depart from Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG), Paris’s main international hub with many direct long-haul connections. For flights within Europe, Orly Airport (ORY) is often a convenient alternative. If you’re travelling on a low-cost airline such as Ryanair, flights typically operate out of Beauvais Airport (BVA).

Where to stay in Paris?

We've also covered a full guide on Where To Stay In Paris, check it out to find your perfect stay.

Route 2: The Central European Gem (History & Value)

This Central Europe itinerary 3 weeks will take you through cities that breathe history, impressive architecture, and cultural experiences, all on a budget. It might not be as famous as Western Europe or the Mediterranean, but that's exactly what makes your trip so full of amazing, unexpected discoveries.

Week 1: Prague (Old Town Square, Charles Bridge) -> Vienna (Palaces, Classical Music)

Lively squares, Clock towers, and endless photo ops in Prague. Photo by rh2010 on Adobe Stock

Day 1-4: Prague

Prague is a living fairytale. The city draws visitors with its Gothic architecture, cobblestone streets, and a winding river that looks straight out of a painting. Yes, it’s charming, super photogenic, but also easy on your wallet.

Best Things To Do In Prague

Prague Castle: This huge complex houses the Old Royal Palace, St. Vitus Cathedral, and Golden Lane. You’ll need at least half a day to fully cover it. 

Charles Bridge: Come early in the morning or at sunrise to beat the crowds.

Letna Park: Take in the iconic Metronome, sip a cold beer at the beer garden, or relax with a book in this popular park.

Old Town Square: Come here for the hourly show of the Astronomical Clock and lively street performances.

Lennon Wall & Kampa Island: This wall is covered with colourful graffiti with messages of peace. Just steps away, you can also slow down on Kampa Island, a beautiful park right by the river.

Day 5: Travel Day from Prague to Vienna

Simply head to cd.cz and book a ticket in advance. The good thing is that there are many trains connecting these two destinations daily. It’s a 3-4-hour journey.

Days 6-10: Vienna

Looking for a slow travel Europe experience? Take a train ride to Vienna. This is where you can linger in grand coffeehouses, wander through royal palaces on a slow afternoon, and let your evenings unwind to a mellow soundtrack.

Best Things To Do In Vienna

Schönbrunn Palace: Vienna’s answer to Versailles, Schönbrunn Palace is built with grand Baroque style and sprawling gardens. (Must-do: book the palace tour).

Hofburg Palace: You can pay €19.50 to see lavish rooms and centuries of royal history inside this complex. The Imperial Apartments and, Sisi Museum are also right on the site.

St. Stephen's Cathedral: Go inside to experience the interior for free, or pay a small fee to climb the North or South Tower for breathtaking views of the city. If you come during winter, this church also has a stunning Christmas market filled with holiday spirit.

Spanish Riding School: Horse lovers? Let’s watch the famous Lipizzan stallions perform in perfect harmony to classical music.

Belvedere Palace: Because it might be rude to visit Vienna and not catch a look at Klimt’s The Kiss - Austria’s most famous artwork.

Viennese Coffeehouse Experience: Café Central or Café Sacher are two hotspots to experience Vienna’s coffee culture, so expect a line. The former is our favourite, not only for the brew but also in-house pastries. 

Where to stay in Vienna?

Week 2: Budapest (Thermal Baths, Ruin Bars) & Krakow (Wawel Castle, Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial)

The Hungarian Parliament in Budapest, glowing at sunset from across the Danube. Photo by muratart on Adobe Stock

Days 8-12: Budapest

Budapest is a city of two halves: Buda and Pest, divided by the grand Danube River. Five days are enough to explore both sides - Buda, with its hills and castles, and Pest, with its flat streets and buzzing nightlife.

Again, getting from Vienna to Budapest is a breeze. There’s a train connecting the two. It should take around 2.5-3 hours. Some even make Budapest a day trip from Vienna. But it’s better to spend a few days here to see and soak in all the culture and vibes.

Best Things To Do In Budapest

Thermal Baths: Soak like a local at either Széchenyi or Gellért Thermal Baths.

Buda Castle & Fisherman’s Bastion: After exploring Buda Castle’s history, you can step onto Fisherman’s Bastion for a fairy-tale lookout over the Danube and Pest.

Hungarian Parliament Building: This is by far the most ornate parliament building you'll ever see. Book your tickets online ASAP, and remember that you can only get in at the time on your ticket.

Ruin Bars: Born from Budapest's forgotten spaces, ruin bars are the heart of Budapest's nightlife. Szimpla Kert is the most popular one.

Central Market Hall: Budapest's Central Market Hall is hailed as the most beautiful in Europe. Find everything from lángos and goulash, and all the perfect souvenirs to fly home with.

Chain Bridge: This famous bridge connects Buda and Pest, so stop by for a great pic. 

Danube River Cruise: You can splurge on a 90-minute evening cruise on the Danube to see Budapest's nightlife from the water. See all the landmarks like Buda Castle, Gellért Hill, and Margaret Bridge lit up against the dark sky.

Where to stay in Budapest?

Days 13-16: Kraków (Wawel Castle, Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial)

From Budapest, a train ride will take you to Krakow, also known as Poland’s cultural capital. It's a walkable and compact city with medieval architecture and a sombre yet essential history.

CABZINZERO tips: The ride to Krakow normally takes 7-8 hours. Consider night trains so you can sleep on the way and wake up in Krakow.

Best Things To Do In Kraków

Wawel Castle & Cathedral: Overlooking the Vistula River, this is where Polish monarchs were crowned.

Main Market Square (Rynek Glówny): At the heart of Kraków, Rynek Główny is a huge square lined with churches, cafés, and historic landmarks.

St. Mary's Basilica & the Cloth Hall: Spot the twin towers, catch the hourly bugle call, then browse for Polish keepsakes at the Cloth Hall next door.

Kazimierz (the old Jewish Quarter): It’s best to plan for a half to a full day in Kazimierz. Spend the morning checking out the Engineering Museum and Synagogue, and then grab some lunch. After that, do a bit of vintage shopping and finally enjoy a few beers at a local beer garden.

A day trip to Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial: Optional but highly recommended if you want to understand the essential history of WWII. Best done with an official guide.

Where to stay in Kraków?

Week 3: Train to Berlin for a final dose of modern history & Fly home

Reichstag Building - a timeless Berlin landmark under the glass dome sky. Photo by Marcus Beckert on Adobe Stock

Days 19-21: Berlin

The final leg of your journey takes you to Berlin. History and hustle: that's Berlin. You can literally feel the weight of the past at the Berlin Wall and the Brandenburg Gate. Yet this is a city that thrives on the new, with a creative art scene and a serious food scene that make it one of a kind.

Best Things to Do in Berlin

East Side Gallery: Stroll along the longest remaining section of the Berlin Wall and explore the murals at the open-air gallery.

Brandenburg Gate & Reichstag Building: They’re iconic landmarks to check in. Remember to book a visit (for free) to the glass dome and peek down into the debating chamber below.

Museum Island: Home to five world-renowned museums, including the Pergamon & Neues Museums. However, the Pergamon Museum is under long-term renovation, so check what's open before your visit.

Holocaust Memorial: A moving tribute to the Jewish victims of the Holocaust.

Kreuzberg & Prenzlauer Berg: Two of Berlin’s most vibrant neighbourhoods. Kreuzberg offers edgy street art and iconic Berlin nightlife, while Prenzlauer Berg has cute cafés, boutiques, and tree-lined streets.

Where to stay in Berlin?

Route 3: The Mediterranean Sun-Seeker (Coasts & Cuisine)

In this Mediterranean Europe itinerary, you’ll trade museum marathons for longer lunches and golden-hour sunsets. We’ll start with Gaudí architecture Barcelona, then ancient Rome, before arriving at the Amalfi Coast. The grand finale? Renaissance Florence. This itinerary is for the unhurried: eat, wander, and chill to genuinely connect with each place you visit.

Week 1: Barcelona (Gaudí architecture, Tapas) -> Fly to Rome

La Sagrada Família is a beauty in progress since 1882. Photo by Nexa on Adobe Stock

Days 1-7: Barcelona

In Barcelona, you don't have to choose between culture and coastal fun. The city has Gaudí’s whimsical works at one end and a sun-kissed beach at the other. Their tapas are also second to none. 

Best Things To Do In Barcelona

Sagrada Família: This is the most famous cathedral in Barcelona and also Gaudí’s most famous work. If you think the intricate façades are impressive enough, let’s step inside and admire the light streams through its stained-glass windows.

Park Güell: Go for the mosaic benches and a postcard-ready view of the city. Also, book your tickets well ahead of time.

La Rambla & Boqueria Market: Save these two spots for lazy mornings when you only want to browse and snack. La Boqueria is the best place to grab jamón, fresh fruit and a vermut (pairs well with many tapas).

Barri Gòtic (Gothic Quarter): Simply wander and get lost in the maze of cobblestone streets. You can browse antique shops, taste an espresso at tiny cafés, and find your way to Barcelona Cathedral.

Casa Batlló & Casa Milà: If you want to see more of Gaudí’s iconic modernist architecture, check them out.

Montjuïc & Magic Fountain: Take an easy teleférico ride to check out the sweeping views and Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya. If you stay until the evening, there's a fountain show with lights and music.

Beach time at Barceloneta: Soak up the sun on Barcelona's beaches before going for a tapas crawl to wrap up your day.

For a full list of top attractions in the city, check out our detailed guide on the best places to visit in Barcelona.

Where to stay in Barcelona?

Day 8: Travel Day: From Barcelona To Rome 

Fly from Barcelona (BCN) to Rome (Fiumicino or Ciampino), which will take you under 2 hours. If you can book well ahead, budget airliners like Vueling and Ryanair normally have great deals. 

CABINZERO tips: Packing light is key for a successful backpacking Europe itinerary 3 weeks, especially if you plan to hop between multiple countries. The real cost when flying with these airlines comes from checked baggage and oversized carry-ons. 

Ready to hit the road? Check out the Best Backpacks For European Travel From CabinZero. They’re light, durable, and perfectly built for city-hopping and train rides across Europe.

Rome (Ancient History) -> Train to the Amalfi Coast (Positano, Coastal Drives)

Ruins of the Roman Forum, once the heart of the Roman Empire. Photo by Paolo on Adobe Stock

Days 9-13: Rome

Rome is an open-air museum, with ancient ruins and piazzas around every corner. It's also a city where you can slow down with espresso, gelato, and long dinners on repeat.

Best Things To Do In Rome

Colosseum & Roman Forum: You’ll be walking where gladiators once walked. Get a combined ticket and guided tour to skip the long line.

Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel: Must-see: Michelangelo's work, the map rooms, and the dome of St. Peter's Basilica. Arrive early or late afternoon to avoid the crowds.

Trastevere: Cross the Tiber River to this neighbourhood of cobblestone streets and lively trattorias. You can also stumble on some of the best eats in the area, such as Fatamorgana for gelato or Supplì Roma for classic Roman supplì. 

Trevi Fountain & Pantheon: Toss a coin at the iconic Trevi Fountain to lock in your return trip to the Eternal City. Pantheon is great for a mid-afternoon break with a gelato.

Piazza Navona & Campo de’ Fiori: Check out Piazza Navona to appreciate its Baroque art before heading to Campo de’ Fiori to feel the market vibes and nightlife.

Where to stay in Rome?

Days 11-14: The Amalfi Coast

When all the glorious history is behind your back, you’re now on a train south for an unforgettable Amalfi Coast trip. 

Best Things To Do In Amalfi Coast

Positano stroll & Spiaggia Grande: Wander those iconic pastel-colored houses spilling down the cliff for plenty of photo ops. On another day, you can soak up the sun on Positano or Fornillo Beach.

The Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei): It’s one of the most famous hikes in Italy, and the Mediterranean views are to die for.

Coastal Drive & Ravello: Take a road trip, either by bus or in a rented car. Then, visit Ravello - a quieter village on the hill with the famous gardens of Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone.

A day trip to Capri: On this pretty European island, make sure you ride the chairlift from Anacapri up to Monte Salario. From start to finish, the views are nothing short of jaw-dropping. With a vibrant nightlife scene, Capri is also known as one of the best party islands in Europe. Last but not least? Blue Grotto.

Where to stay on the Amalfi Coast?

Week 3: Florence and Tuscany Then Fly Home from Florence

Florence shows off its Gothic side with the Duomo and Giotto’s Campanile. Photo by Luciano Mortula-LGM on Adobe Stock

H4. Day 15: Travel Day: From the Amalfi Coast to Florence

Take a bus from your town (either Positano or Amalfi) to Sorrento or Salerno. From there, you will board a high-speed train, like Frecciarossa, and you'll be in Florence for around 6 hours. This is the best balance of comfort, travel speed and costs. While flying from Naples might seem faster, the time spent on transfers to and from the airports often makes the total journey just as long.

Day 16-18: Florence (Renaissance Art)

Leaving the beauty of the coast behind, now let’s take a deeper dive into Europe’s rich culture and history. Welcome to Florence - the cradle of the Renaissance. 

Florence will also serve as a base for your trip: you'll stay two or three full days in the city before slowing down in the Tuscan countryside. This removes the chore of lugging your bags around, so you'll have more time to settle into the rhythm of each place.

Best Things To Do In Florence

Accademia Gallery: Because it’s home to Michelangelo’s David!

Duomo & Brunelleschi’s Dome (Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore): While the intricate facade and bell tower are impressive, you must climb the dome to appreciate the Renaissance engineering and city views.

Uffizi Gallery: Fans of Renaissance art shouldn't skip the masterpieces by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Caravaggio in this museum.

Ponte Vecchio & Oltrarno: Cross the famous Ponte Vecchio, lined with jewellery shops where you might find a unique souvenir. On the other side? Oltrarno, the cool part of town.

Boboli Gardens: You're forgiven for skipping Pitti Palace. However, those gardens right behind it shouldn't be missed.

Day 19-21: The Tuscan Countryside

Ready to trade cobblestone streets for rolling hills? This is your chance to truly experience la dolce vita - a world with good company, amazing food, and incredible wine, set against stunning countryside views.

Best Things To Do In the Tuscan Countryside

Pisa & Lucca (Day Trip): Doing Pisa and Lucca together in one day makes sense logistically. You can hop on a train from Florence to Pisa, which only takes about an hour. 

First, spend the whole morning on Pisa's key attractions: Leaning Tower & Campo dei Miracoli. It won’t take more than 3 hours if you’re focused. Then, take a 30-minute train ride to Lucca. You can spend the afternoon strolling or biking to explore this pedestrian-friendly old town.

Siena & San Gimignano: You can’t miss the famous main square in Siena - Piazza del Campo, and its striking black-and-white Gothic cathedral. From there, it's an easy trip to San Gimignano, the town with all the medieval towers. Climb Torre Grossa for sweeping views before taking a break with a gelato at Gelateria Dondoli.

Chianti Vineyards: The best way to spend an afternoon here? A glass of Chianti Classico wine on a wine tour. Visit Greve in Chianti to see a unique triangular piazza and go on a road trip along Strada Statale 222 Chiantigiana.

Where to stay in Florence?

Slow Morning in Florence & Fly Home From Florence

Travelling back home from Florence after your 21 day Europe itinerary trip is simple, but with a bit of planning. You can depart from Florence's airport (FLR), which has flights to major European cities like Frankfurt, Paris or London. From this airport, you can easily connect to a long-haul flight to the US. Cities like Atlanta, New York and Boston all have direct flights from these hubs. 

For those flying back to the UK, there are direct flights right from FLR, so there's no extra layover. Another option is to hop on a high-speed train from Florence to Rome or Milan for more direct flights to the UK and US. Whatever you choose, our advice is to book ahead for the price and allow ample time for layovers (if any).

How to Make Your Own Itinerary

Why settle for a standard trip when you can customise the European trip of a lifetime? Here comes the coolest part of the planning: craft a 3 week European vacation for your own style. 

Mix & Match

A simple way is to mix and match based on our Europe trip ideas for 3 weeks above. For example, you can start with art in Barcelona, then add a Swiss Alps travel and an Interlaken adventure sports experience. Then, arrive in Vienna and Prague for imperial heritage. This is a great combo if you want to combine history, outdoor adventure and culture in one single package. 

It also makes sense in terms of costs and logistics. It only takes a quick flight to travel from Barcelona to Switzerland, but it's a wild culture swap: sangria traded for the crisp air of the Alps. The journey continues effortlessly eastward: an overnight train will transport you to Vienna. And finally, a short, cheap train ride connects you to Prague. This means zero wasted travel time.

If you want to simplify things, just pick 3 destinations and spend a week in each of them.

Add A Personal Touch

Customising your Europe trip also means building it around what excites you most. If you're party lovers, plan your European visit around La Tomatina or Oktoberfest. For outdoorsy types, include a Cinque Terre hiking adventure along Italy’s coastal trails. If you love adventure together, the best Europe itinerary for couples might be scenic train rides, a sunset gondola ride in Venice and wine tasting in Tuscany.

Get Your 3 Weeks  European Itinerary Now

Don’t waste time guessing your route. You can download our Europe travel route planner to see the best routes, must-see landmarks and more travel tips for a perfect trip. Download it now!

Your Europe, Your Way

Planning for 3 weeks in Europe can feel overwhelming, so let us do the legwork for you. We've found some incredible routes for your European Itinerary 3 Weeks. All you have to do is pick one, mix and match to build a custom trip that's totally yours. 

If you still have any questions, drop them in the comment box below. Is this Europe travel guide 3 weeks helpful to you? If so, please give it a like and share it with fellow travellers who are planning their own European adventure. Happy travels.

KELSEY