15 One Week European Itineraries For Every Type Of Traveler

Are you looking for a list of the best one week in Europe itineraries? Then this list is for you!

No matter what kind of traveler you are, this list has a trip you’ll love. 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 in. You can land anywhere and find a way to fill your week.

These one week in Europe itineraries 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 European landscapes, there’s an itinerary for you too. There are even packed itineraries for those who don’t like to sit still.

It’s easy to do Europe in one week with any of these amazing itineraries.

15 One Week European Itineraries For Every Type Of Traveler

Northern Italy in 7 Days

Highlights

• Shopping in Milan
• Exploring Lake Como
• Explore the Western and Eastern Dolomites
• Reenact Romeo and Juliet in Verona

Northern Italy is a truly beautiful place to spend one week in Europe. If you are looking for a trip itinerary that is packed with amazing opportunities, then you’ll love the ultimate Northern Italy itinerary.

Landing in Milan, you’ll be able to spend a few hours exploring the home of some of the most famous couture brands. From Milan, you’ll head out to Lake Como. Lake Como is a beautiful blue lake that has a picturesque town on its shores.

Continue on by heading to the Western and Eastern Dolomites where you’ll take in breathtaking views. From there, you can finish your trip in Verona and reenact scenes from Shakespeare’s most famous play.

The ultimate Northern Italy itinerary offers other stops if you’ve already seen some of the ones listed here, so you’ll want to check it out as you plan your Northern Italy in 7 Days vacation.

Extra Resources

The Ultimate Northern Italy Road Trip
10 Stunningly Beautiful Places You Must Visit in Northern Italy
14 Best Boutique Hotels in Milan Italy
What Does a Trip to Italy Cost? Breakdown by Budget!

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. Landing in Dublin will give you the opportunity to spend some time exploring the area. You’ll definitely 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, you’ll want to make your way to Cork, and along the way stop at Rock of Cashel and Hore Abbey. You may also want to explore one of the cutest little towns, 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. Just outside of Cork, on the Blarney Estate is the Blarney Castle, the home of the Blarney Stone. Spend the day exploring the estate, and of course, kiss the Blarney Stone.

Next, you’ll want to 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 things to do. Like the Killarney National Park, the Ross Castle, and the Torc Waterfall. Finish your trip by heading out to the Cliffs of Moher where you’ll experience breathtaking views.

Extra Resources

How to Plan the Ultimate Ireland Honeymoon
The Perfect Ireland Road Trip Itinerary You Should Steal
How Much Does a Trip to Ireland Cost? Breakdown by Budget!
10 Best Castle Hotels in Ireland Out of a Fairytale

London and Paris

Highlights

• Explore London’s Free Activities
• Take in Hyde Park
• Breakfast at The Ritz and a Tour of Buckingham Palace
• Stroll Along Near the Eiffel Tower and Shop at the Champs Élysées
• Take a Day Trip to Versaille

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. You’ll get to explore the Museum of Natural History, the Victoria and Albert Museum, and take your picture at Picadilly Circus and Trafalgar Square.

When you explore London make sure head out to the beautiful Hyde Park. If you want, you can even take a horse ride through the grounds. 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.

Some of the coolest things to do in Paris are to go shopping at the Champs Élysées, see a show at Moulin Rouge, and explore the Louvre. You could do this all in one day in Paris, but if you have the time, spend a day or two just exploring all that Paris has to offer.

While you’re in Paris, you’ll definitely want to take a day trip to the stunning Versaille. Your one week in Europe will be full of classic sights if you spend it exploring London and Paris.

Extra Resources

The Best 4 Day London Itinerary for First Time Visitors
Hands Down, This is Where to Stay in London
10 Stops to Include on the Perfect Paris Itinerary
Hands Down, This is How to See Paris in a Day

Rome + Florence + 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. Because there is just so much to do in Rome, you’ll be spending most of your trip there.

Spend a day exploring the sights of Ancient Rome. You’ll want to make stops at the Coliseum, the Arch of Constantine, Palatine Hill, and the Roman Forum. Even travelers that aren’t religious will want to take a day to explore Holy Rome and the Vatican. There you’ll want to take a tour of St. Peter’s Basilica and the dome.

While in Rome, don’t forget to make a wish at the Trevi Fountain, climb the Spanish Steps, and explore Castle Sant’Angelo. Next, travel farther into Italy and spend a day or two exploring the beautiful city of Florence.

Florence is a stunning city with so many things to do. While there, you’ll definitely want to make sure you visit the Florence Cathedral, walk to the Baptistry of St. John, and admire the art at the Uffizi Palace and Gallery.

Your last stop is Venice, and of course, you’ll want to take a gondola ride in one of the canals. Make sure you also check out the St. Mark’s Square and Basilica, shop for glass trinkets in Murano, and stop by Burano Island for some colorful sights.

Extra Resources

The Perfect Four Days in Rome Itinerary [+Skip the Line Details]!
15 Best Airbnbs in Rome (Pools, Terraces, and More!)
Exactly How to Get From Florence to Venice
How to Make the Most of One Day in Venice

Romantic Southern Germany

Highlights

• Explore Rothenburg ob de Tauber
• Visit the “Fairytale Castle”
• Grab a Beer in Munich
• Explore the Black Forest

Visiting Romantic Southern Germany during your one week in Europe there are a few ways to explore. The most popular ways are both road trips. The first road trip option is the Romantic Road Germany drive.

On the Romantic Road Germany drive you’ll start off by getting to explore Germany’s wine country. From there, you’ll drive through beautiful Medieval towns, like Rothenburg ob de Tauber.

You’ll end your Romantic Road Germany trip with a visit to the “Fairytale Castle”. The “Fairytale Castle” is actually the Neweschenstein Castle in Schwangau Germany. Schwangau is a beautiful town that actually has a few castles.

The second road trip option is the Perfect Germany Road Trip and about halfway through the trip, you’ll end up in Schwangau. The Perfect Germany Road Trip starts out 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. There you can end your journey through Romantic Southern Germany.

Extra Resources

10 Picturesque Stops on the Romantic Road Germany
The Perfect Germany Road Trip Itinerary
10 Prettiest Small Towns in Germany Out of a Fairytale
10 Stunningly Beautiful Castles in Germany You Must See

Highlights of Iceland

Highlights

• Drive the Golden Circle
• Explore Reykjavik
• Stop Along the Road to Vik
• Admire Glaciers
• Relax in the Blue Lagoon

This Iceland road trip can be done in 5 days, but with two extra days, you’ll be able to spend a bit more time exploring. Start your trip by driving Iceland’s famous Golden Circle. As you drive, you’ll get to see beautiful geysers, the Gullfoss Waterfall, ponies, and more. From there, head to Reykjavik.

In Reykjavik you’ll find so many awesome things to do. You can 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.

Along the drive to Vik you can stop at the Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls and the Sólheimasandur Airplane Wreck. Stay the night in Vik, and then continue on to Hofn. While you drive you’ll be able to stop and admire a black sand beach, epic glaciers and basalt columns, and Skaftafell National Park.

In Hofn you’ll be able to explore more glaciers and even a glacier lagoon. You’ll want to 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.

Extra Resources

The Ultimate 5 Days in Iceland Road Trip Itinerary
Where to Stay in Iceland: Best Hotels by Area
17 Unique Things to Do in Reykjavik Iceland
Iceland on a Budget: 5 Things You’re Forgetting to Save For

Best of the UK

Highlights

• Explore London and the Cliffs of Dorset
• Enjoy the beauty of the Cotswolds
• Journey to Glasgow
• Walk Through Time in Edinburgh

The best thing about the Best of the UK road trip is that there is no set timeline. Starting in London, you may want to stay for a day or two. If you’ve been to London before, then we suggest making your way to the Cliffs of Dorset. There you’ll get to enjoy scenic views of the England coastline and even get some hiking in.

From Dorset, we suggest you head to the Cotswolds. In the Cotswolds, you’ll want to explore many of the small villages with quaint homes built from the limestone that makes up the landscape. When you are done exploring the area, you’ll begin to make your way out of England.

Your first stop in Scotland will be Glasgow. Glasgow is an extremely popular city and is actually the most populated city in Scotland. Because of this, you’ll find an endless amount of things to do where both modern and ancient history meet.

Next you’ll want to head to the enchanting city of Edinburgh where you’ll end your trip. Stepping into Edinburgh is like stepping back into time. It is a city full of important historical figures and has been the host to many significant historical moments in its long past. From beautiful architecture and a breathtaking landscape, Edinburgh is always worth the stop.

Extra Resources

The Ultimate UK Road Trip Itinerary
Hands Down, This is Where to Stay in London
10 Prettiest Towns in Scotland With Magical Charm

Magical South of France

Highlights

• Explore Romantic Bordeaux
• Enjoy historic Lyon
• Discover Chambéry

The Magical South of France road trip takes you to some of the best parts of the South of France. Start your trip in Bordeaux. Bordeaux is the hub of France’s wine-growing region and its a port city. There are so many things to do in Bordeaux, like beautiful public gardens, touring wineries, and even historical sites.

When you leave Bordeaux you’ll make your way to the historic city of Lyon. While you drive, make sure to try to find 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, many historical sites. The city is a World Heritage Site and has a history dating back to the Romans. Lyon has a piece of architecture or art for every major historical time period, so you may want to spend a few days exploring. When you’ve discovered all you can in Lyon, make your way to your last city, Chambéry.

Chambéry is a small Alpine town in Southeastern France that is full of charm. In Chambéry you can enjoy more history, or enjoy the natural beauty of the Alps. If you are looking to spend one week in Europe, you can’t go wrong exploring the South of France.

Extra Resources

The Ultimate France Road Trip Itinerary
10 Fairytale Castles in France You Can’t Miss
Europe Packing List: 10 Things You Are FORGETTING to Bring

Best of Russia

Highlights

• Marvel at St. Petersburg and the Winter Palace
• Explore the Red Square in Moscow
• Admire the ancient village of Yaroslavl

Russia is an amazing way to spend one week in Europe. You’ll want to begin your trip in St. Petersburg. While there take the time to experience the breathtaking beauty of St. Petersburg’s many fascinating structures.

You can walk in the footsteps of Anastasia in the Winter Palace or explore one of the stunning churches. There are also a number of beautiful palaces and state buildings you can tour. Next on your trip through Russia’s highlights, you’ll want to explore the capital city of Moscow. Moscow is one of the prettiest European capitals, and like St. Petersburg, it’s full of unique and gorgeous architecture.

While in Moscow, make sure you wander around the Red Square, admire St. Basil’s Cathedral, and soak up some history in one of the many museums. Your last stop in Russia on your one week in Europe trip should definitely be Yaroslavl.

Yaroslavl is on the Golden Ring group of ancient villages. Yaroslavl is a World Heritage Site and was founded in 1010. In Yaroslavl, you’ll really get a feel for what it would have been like to live in Russia throughout history if you weren’t a royal.

Extra Resources

10 Prettiest European Capitals
Getting a Visa to Travel to and From Russia

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 are looking to spend one week in Europe exploring Switzerland you’ll want to start in Zurich. Because you won’t be traveling to many cities, we suggest making sure to give yourself enough time to explore each one. While in Zurich, take the time to walk the Lake Zurich Promenade, visit the Museum of Art, or one of the 100 art galleries.

From Zurich you’ll want to travel to Lucerne. Some things you should definitely do include taking the Golden Round Trip, visit 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 the Ultimate 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 some Swiss culture at one of the many museums or seasonal festivals. We also recommend making a stop to take a tour of the Headquarter for the United Nations. Exploring Switzerland is a perfect way to spend one week in Europe and you’re bound to have a good time.

Extra Resources

The Ultimate Switzerland Road Trip Itinerary
13 Pretty Towns in Switzerland with Magical Charm

Barcelona + Montserrat + Costa Brava

Highlights

• Meander through Park Güell
• Take the train to Montserrat
• Explore the parks of Costa Brava

One of Spain’s most popular cities to visit is Barcelona. It is a beautiful coastal city with some amazing things to do. You can plan to spend a few days just in Barcelona and exploring. Then we suggest planning a day trip to Montserrat and Costa Brava.

In Barcelona there are a few things you will absolutely want to see. Take the time to walk through Park Güell, which is a public park that is full of beautiful gardens and mosaics built into the architecture. A visit to Barcelona also has to include exploring the Gothic Quarter, an area of the city that is full of Gothic architecture.

There is also a Picasso Museum, Tapas and Wine tours, and so much more. When you think you’ve got your fill of Barcelona, take the train to the island of Montserrat. One of the coolest things in Montserrat is the Abadia de Montserrat, a Benedictine Monastery. It is built against the side of a large mountain and they offer several different kinds of tours to attract travelers of all kinds.

The last stop on your one week in Europe tour of Southern Spain needs to be Costa Brava. Costa Brava is another coastal city that is full of interesting things to do. One of the best things to do in Costa Brava is to explore one of the many parks and museums. Stroll through the Jardines de Santa Clotilde or explore Surrealism at the Salvador Dali House.

No matter what you decided to do in Costa Brava, it is a perfect way to end your one week in Europe vacation.

Extra Resources

The Most Romantic Cities in Europe Every Couple Should Visit

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 we 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.

While in Lisbon, there are a few things that you’ll definitely want 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, which makes for a very unique walking tour. For another Gothic architectural marvel, make sure you tour the Mosteiro dos Jeronimos as well.

You can spend days exploring Lisbon, and when you are ready to move on, we suggest spending the rest of your trip in The Algarve. The Algarve is the Southernmost region of Portugal and is known for its beautiful sandy beaches.

As you explore The Algarve there are a few things you wont want to miss. Make sure to go swimming at one of, if not 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, we also suggest taking a walk on the boardwalk at Algar Seco. Algar Seco is a section of coastline that has natural rocky caves as well as a boardwalk that allows you to get better views of the landscape. Lisbon and The Algarve is a beautiful way to spend one week in Europe.

Extra Resources

The Most Romantic Cities in Europe Every Couple Should Visit

The French Riviera

Highlights

• Spend a night enjoying the Casino at Monte-Carlo
• Explore the Cours Saleya market in Nice
• Admire the Yachts in Saint-Tropez
• Marvel at the Beautiful Painted Buildings in Menton

The French Riviera is one of the most beautiful parts of France. It never gets too cold, it’s 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 local 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 to 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.

Extra Resources

15 Best Airbnbs in France
Europe Packing List: 10 Things You Are FORGETTING to Bring

The 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. You’ll 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 of the building dating back to 1275. After you are done exploring, you’ll continue heading north.

As you drive, 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.

You’ll continue driving and you’ll begin to make 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 definitely worth the stop. You’ll be greeted by friendly locals and have the opportunity to try one of the amazing restaurants with local fare.

The end of your NC500 road trip finds you back in Inverness. By the time you get back, you will have gotten to enjoy and sample everything that makes the Scottish Highlands such a special place to spend one week in Europe.

Extra Resources

The Ultimate Scotland Road Trip Itinerary You Should Steal
10 Prettiest Towns in Scotland With Magical Charm

These European itineraries are all packed with amazing adventures and beautiful sites. Have you ever spent 7 days in Europe? If so, where did you go and what did you do? Please let us know in the comments!