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Cheap Europe package deals

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• There are loads of types of vacations in Europe and the cost will depend on what type of trip you’re taking and for how long you’d like to stay. Here are the latest prices for a 3 night trip for 2 travelers: Top vacation $526; Family vacation $442; Romantic vacation $591; Luxury vacation $601; Budget vacation $374.

Why should you book a vacation package to Europe?

By booking packages, you can ensure that your itinerary includes your destination's major sights and experiences. Packages are also a great way to cut the cost of visiting Europe. With the right deal, you can combine luxury accommodation, access to the sights and a rental car, and have money left over to shop for souvenirs.

When should you book a vacation package to Europe?

Booking European packages is an excellent way to save money and make travel easy, and you can make even bigger savings by traveling at the right time of year.

In southern Europe, peak season lasts from around June to September, but cheaper shoulder season breaks in May or October can be almost as sunny. In the north, the peak season is shorter, so look for affordable packages in fall and spring. However, expect price spikes around Christmas and local events like Oktoberfest in Munich or Bastille Day in Paris (14 July).

Where should you stay in Europe during your vacation?

For any vacation type in europe:.

The Four Seasons Hotel George V is perfectly located for sightseers in Paris and is an Art Deco gem with gorgeous views of the Eiffel Tower. It's just an hour from Charles de Gaulle Airport, while a meet and greet service is available on request.

Located on the famous "Rambla", Hotel 1898 is one of the finest places to stay in Barcelona. Blessed with amazing city vistas from its terrace, and created from a renovated 19th century mansion, it is 500 meters from the Aerobus stop at Plaza Cataluña.

For family vacations in Europe:

The La Marquise Luxury Resort Complex on the Greek island of Rhodes is a fantastic family hotel with kids' facilities featuring games rooms, pools and multilingual support staff. It's all just 6 miles from Rhodes Airport.

Located on Italy's Amalfi Coast, the Hotel Poseidon in Castellammare has a spacious parking lot on-site, while recreation options like tennis courts make it very appealing for families. It's also an easy drive to and from Naples Airport.

For romantic vacations in Europe:

If you want to see Venice, the Hilton Molino Stucky is ideal. It's conveniently placed for taking gondola cruises and to see the Biennale. Water taxis from the airport arrive a few meters from the hotel door.

Ideal for a romantic break in laid-back Amsterdam, the Rembrandt Square Hotel is right at the city's heart - and next to the spectacular flower market. A taxi from Schiphol Airport takes just 14 minutes.

For luxury vacations in Europe:

London's Ritz Hotel is like a synonym for luxury. Situated on Piccadilly, it offers delicious Indian and Lebanese food, stunning furnishings and couldn't be more convenient for seeing the sights. It's also almost directly connected to Heathrow Airport via the London Tube.

Lisbon's Four Seasons Ritz Hotel is another great choice for a luxury getaway in Europe, with its Louis XVI style design, artworks in every room and relaxing urban gardens. It's just 20 minutes by car from Lisbon Airport.

For budget vacations in Europe:

A great base for exploring Germany's capital, the A&O Berlin Kolumbus is tucked away from the action but only 15 minutes from Alexanderplatz, the city's hub. This means that getting there from the airport is also quick and easy.

Copenhagen's City Hotel Nebo ticks all the boxes for budget breaks in Denmark. It has a central location and is an easy walk away from the capital's galleries and family attractions like Copenhagen Zoo. And it's just 12 minutes away from the airport by train.

Where to stay in Europe

Europe vacation information, popular package vacation destinations in europe.

• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Czech Republic
• Faroe Islands
• Isle of Man
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• North Macedonia
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom
• Vatican City

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Europe Vacations & Trips from $946

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Bianca's House Hotel Heathrow Airport

Reviewed on May 29, 2024

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Reviewed on Jul 14, 2024

Baglioni Hotel Regina - The Leading Hotels of the World

Reviewed on Aug 18, 2024

Hotel Pulitzer Roma

Reviewed on Jul 29, 2024

Mercure Rome Leonardo da Vinci Airport

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Your Guide to Europe Vacations

Best places to vacation in Europe

Best time to go to Europe

How to save money on a vacation in Europe

Best Places to Vacation in Europe

Experience vacation packages in Spain where Islam meets the west

In Spain, you can experience a unique culture whose medieval influences draw from Islamic and Western cultures. You'll see incredible architecture and a culinary tradition that's unlike anything anywhere else. See concerts in astoundingly posh performing arts halls or walk museums with unique and ancient treasures. Explore urban markets filled with delectable sights and smells, then take a bit of the culture home.

See the heart of the Roman Empire with Italy vacation packages

Italy offers ancient culture, elegant architecture, and artwork showcasing the Renaissance Masters. You can head for Venice and take a gondola ride. Head for Rome and see the Colosseum, or see the ruins of Pompeii. Visit the Vatican and see the Sistene Chapel. Head for a sidewalk cafe for a cappuccino or enjoy mouth-watering cuisine. Don't be surprised if, when you go home, you're speaking a little Italian.

Head for the Emerald Isles with Ireland vacation packages

Ireland offers the chance to explore vast, rolling hills and experience famous landmarks like the Cliffs of Moher. You can kiss the Blarney Stone or take a tour of the original Guinness brewery. See medieval castles and cathedrals or even unusual museums tracing the history of crime and punishment. Ireland offers a wealth of things to do and provides thriving nightlife as well as family-friendly events.

Walk the footsteps of Vikings on Iceland vacation packages

Iceland is defined by dramatic rock formations, volcanoes, geysers, and other geological features and by its eco-friendly way of life. Its capital city is run entirely on geothermal power. You can see stunning natural vistas with serene blue mountain lakes and heavily forested mountain valleys. You can tour ice caves and visit museums rich with Norse culture. Take a walk back to the ancient days of Europe.

Head for the birthplace of democracy on a Greece vacation

A vacation in Greece lets you see the place where the famed mythology of Zeus and Heracles was born. You can visit ancient sites like the Parthenon, cities like Athens that combine ultramodern urbanism with millennia-old culture, and see medieval sites of stunning architecture. Visit museums and walk through traditional marketplaces, where you can try everything olive. Enjoy delicious food and wine, and soak up the culture.

Experience vibrant nightlife with an Amsterdam vacation package

Amsterdam is renowned for being a party town. Aside from its famous red-light district and vibrant nightclubs, however, the city offers an array of things to see and do, many of which are family friendly. It's filled with art and culture museums, outdoor adventures, open-air theaters, and quirky shops selling handmade toys and games. Whether you're an adult or a kid, there's a party in Amsterdam for you.

Beachside Bliss

For many travelers, the perfect Europe vacation package revolves around sun, sea and sand. Get your fill on Spain ’s most famous beaches, from San Sebastian and the Costa del Sol on the mainland to the warm-year-round Canary Islands . In Greece , hop through some of its 6,000 islands such as Santorini and Mykonos or sail to dreamy hideaways like Karpathos . With 300 days of sunshine annually and around 125 miles of coastline, it’s no surprise that the Algarve in Portugal is among Europe’s top beach resort areas. Meanwhile the Italian island of Sardinia , famous for its iridescent waters and fine white sand, regularly tops polls of the world’s best beaches.

Culture & Sightseeing

Packed with culture and major attractions, Paris is always a good idea! Climb the Eiffel Tower , stare at the Mona Lisa in the Louvre and wander the streets of charming Montmartre . In Rome , you’ll come face to face with history at almost every turn. Check out the Colosseum and Trevi Fountain before exploring Italy ’s other wonders like the Leaning Tower of Pisa and Grand Canal of Venice . In Athens , walk around the ruins of the Acropolis and in London , see Big Ben and Buckingham Palace . The mysteries of Stonehenge are a day trip away. How about a Europe vacation package to Barcelona ? Here, be wowed by the architecture of Sagrada Familia and dance the flamenco. Olé!

Outdoor Adventures

What if mountains, fjordlands or forests are your idea of heaven? When it comes to nature, Iceland dazzles with its electric blue ice caps, black-sand beaches and vast lava fields. Take a dip in the Blue Lagoon and tick a must-do off the list. If skiing is your thing, head for the Swiss Alps to shred under the shadow of the mighty Matterhorn . In the Scottish Highlands , hike the rugged Isle of Skye and keep an eye out for the Loch Ness Monster (Nessie) at Loch Ness lake. Scandinavia is a dream for outdoor enthusiasts. Sail through the fjords of Norway , chase the northern lights in Finland and hike through lush forests around Stockholm , Sweden . Be sure to add some activities or experiences to your Europe vacation package for the ultimate adventure.

Vacations for Foodies

It’s time to eat your way through Europe! In Brussels , Belgium , chow down on moules-frites (mussels and French fries), Belgium chocolate and waffles and then wash it all down with a beer. Bring your appetite to the birthplace of pizza, Naples . Order a slice from a hole-in-the-wall restaurant to find out why it’s considered the world’s best. While you’ll no doubt think of wine when it comes to Bordeaux , this French culinary haven is also renowned for its oysters, foie gras and canelé pastries. Tapas, paella and churros dipped in chocolate are on the menu in Madrid , while Portugal’s capital Lisbon serves up delicacies from pastéis de Belém (custard tarts) to grilled sardines.

Europe Packages on a Budget

If you’re looking for cheap vacation packages in Europe , Budapest won’t break the budget. The Hungarian capital’s exceptional beauty and famous landmarks (like Buda Castle ) have earned it the nickname of the “Paris of the East.” In Slovenia , pristine nature full of mountains, rivers and caves await along with castles and museums. Want to do the Mediterranean on the cheap in Malta ? There are gorgeous beaches, charming villages and medieval fortified cities to explore. Sicily also serves up a stellar lineup of sights for less, from the Valley of the Temples in the Province of Agrigento to the volcanic Aeolian Islands .

Luxury Locations

With destinations like the  Amalfi Coast to tempt you, a European vacation package is your opportunity to splurge. This stretch of Italian coastline is home to Mediterranean superstars like the cliffside village of Positano and Capri , where you’ll find the magical Blue Grotto . If the French Riviera is calling your name, say bonjour to the “billionaires’ playground” of Monaco . Hit the famous Monte Carlo Casino and maybe even cruise around on a luxury yacht. Glamorous Nice , Cannes and Saint-Tropez are just over the border in France . Ibiza is one of Spain’s most famous luxury destinations. Its crystal-clear waters, white sands and epic nightlife have long attracted celebrities and party-loving travelers.

Save on Europe Packages

Wherever you choose to go, you’ll save with Expedia’s cheap vacation packages to Europe . For example, discover the best of London or book a Rome package to marvel at the Vatican and Sistine Chapel . Wander around the Louvre Museum on a Paris vacation — alternatively, if Amsterdam is more your style, then book one of our bundles and you’ll be taking a private tour of the city and experiencing its world-famous nightlife soon enough. Europe vacation packages start at $946* and can save you heaps.

Flights, hotels and rental cars, or any combination of them — the choice is yours when it comes to creating your package. Prices depend on exactly what you bundle, and whether you add extras like tours and experiences. Other factors include the length of your trip, hotel rating, time of year you travel and where you’re flying from. You can unlock even more discounts on your European escape by simply booking your flight and hotel together, rather than booking separately. Europe package savings can add up to as much as 52%** . Still haven’t picked your destination? We recommend exploring unmissable Prague — where great package savings means more cash to spend on eating hearty pork knuckles and sightseeing at Prague Castle !

How to Plan Your Europe Vacation

Select one of our ready-made cheap packages to Europe or build your own customized trip – all you need to do is enter your desired destination and travel dates. Take your pick of hotels, resorts or vacation rentals, add flights and/or a car rental and get incredible prices. You can sort your results by price, amenities and more.

Wondering when to travel to Europe? Peak season is June, July and August. Expect sunny weather, long days and plenty of excitement, but also higher rates and large crowds. If you really want to save, consider the quieter months of April through mid-June, or September through October. The low season, November through March, is another option. While it may be cold, you’ll usually get the best hotel and airfare deals, not to mention fewer tourists.

Looking for cheap all-inclusive Europe vacation packages ? Select the all-inclusive filter and we do the rest. Simply pick one of our awesome properties and you’ll get food, drinks and activities included in the price. Check out our all-inclusive stays in Europe for the ultimate stress-free vacation!

* Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

**Savings based on all package bookings with Flight + Hotel made on Expedia from 2019-04-01 - 2020-03-31 as compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings will vary based on origin/destination, length of trip, stay dates and selected travel supplier(s). Savings not available on all packages .

Best months to visit Europe

Looking for the best time to visit Europe? Our table will help you. Europe boasts a year-round average temperature of 51.4°F, reaching a peak of 65.7°F in August, its warmest month, and dropping to an average low of 38.1°F in January, February, the coolest month. The annual rainfall averages 71.6mm, with December experiencing the heaviest showers, while March is the driest month.

How to save money on a vacation to Europe

• Combine your flights with hotels or car rentals to save money, especially in popular European destinations.
• Take advantage of Expedia's OneKey program to collect points and save money on your European travel.
• Utilize the helpful search filters on Expedia to find the perfect accommodation within your price range.
• Consider traveling during the off-peak season in Europe, which is typically from November to March, for the most budget-friendly options.
• Use the search filter for price limits on Expedia to find a vacation package that suits your budget.
• Discover the best European vacation experience for you by using the travel experience filter on Expedia, whether it's a family, romantic, or adventurous getaway.

Europe Hotel Deals

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Reviewed on Aug 16, 2024

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Custom Europe Vacation Packages

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Best Europe Vacation Packages

7 nights from $509*

Our #1 Bestseller and the perfect introduction to Italy! . Visit these fascinating cities starting in: Rome (the Eternal City, with its stunning architecture like the Colosseum and the Roman Forum and delicious food) after that, travel north to Florence (capital of Italy’s Tuscany region, is home to many masterpieces of Renaissance art and architecture) and finally, to Venice (set on gorgeous canals, intimate Gondola rides will guide you past sumptuous palaces and under sculpted bridges). Travel between these cities by very convenient train rides which allow you an opportunity to observe the lovely country side. This is a flexible vacation package. Select your number of nights in each city, desired hotel and activities.

• Hotel for 3 nights in Rome
• Train from Rome to Florence
• Hotel for 2 nights in Florence
• Train from Florence to Venice
• Hotel for 2 nights in Venice

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Popular Europe Vacation Packages

London and paris by train.

6 nights from $689*

Everything was wonderful. Tripmasters was very helpful, called me a few times in regards to our return flight fiasco. We ...

Rome - Florence - Venice by Train

The only issue we had was with the return flight showing the booking airline (KLM) rather then the actual flight which w . ..

Madrid and Barcelona by Air

6 nights from $449*

I can only recommend an option to take a high speed train between Madrid and Barcelona instead of having to fly. It wou ...

Suggested Europe Vacation Packages

Athens and Istanbul by Air

6 nights from $309*

Take an exciting vacation in Grece and Turkey! . Begin with a visit to Athens (the cradle of civilization and home of democracy, is a heady mix of history and edginess with iconic monuments mingle with first-rate museums) and then, take a flight to Istanbul (which is world-famous for its rich history and culture, stunning scenery, magnificent structures across the sprawling Bosphorus Strait). This is a flexible vacation package. Select your number of nights in each city, desired hotel and activities.

• Hotel for 3 nights in Athens
• Flight from Athens to Istanbul
• Hotel for 3 nights in Istanbul
• Ramadan is a month of spirituality and purification during which participants abstain from eating, drinking, and smoking. Ramadan is typically celebrated in late winter or early spring. Please verify dates before booking travel because food and entertainment services in hotels and other public places may be affected.

Paris and Amsterdam by Train

A taste of two of the most fascinating cities in Netherlands and France ! Visit Paris (The City of Lights with impressive monuments, museums, culture and gastronomy) and Amsterdam (easygoing and liberal; a diverse culture full of museums, shops and eclectic neighborhoods set along tranquil canals with a vibrant nightlife). Travel between these two amazing destinations by train. This is a flexible package. Select your number of nights in each city, desired hotel and activities.

• Hotel for 3 nights in Paris
• Train Paris - Amsterdam
• Hotel for 3 nights in Amsterdam

Madrid and Barcelona by Train

6 nights from $419*

Spain is recognized throughout Europe for its distinctive style and contribution to art; and these two cities highlight that commitment. Visit Madrid (lively, energetic and vibrant - with a well earned reputation for its nightlife and cultural contributions with its diverse Spanish museums) and Barcelona (with dramatic buildings by famed artists Gaudi, the stunning Gothic Quarter and always on the biting edge of fashion, food, style and music while retaining and celebrating its own unique heritage). Catch a train between these cities. This is a flexible vacation package. Select your number of nights in each city, desired hotel and activities.

• Hotel for 3 nights in Madrid
• Train from Madrid to Barcelona
• Hotel for 3 nights in Barcelona

Limerick - Killarney - Dublin (Self Drive)

6 nights from $539*

This Self-Drive, independent vacation package will introduce you to all the most breathtaking aspects of Ireland . Pick up your car in Shannon and drive to Medieval Limerick (King John`s Castle, Lough Gur Neolithic Settlement and Stone Age Centre); then proceed to Killarney (Muckross House and Gardens, Ring of Kerry); and finally, visit the Irish capital city Dublin (rimming with tradition; old pubs and trendy coffee shops). This is a flexible vacation package. Select your number of nights in each city, desired hotel and activities.

• Rental Car for 7 days
• Hotel for 2 nights in Limerick
• Hotel for 2 nights in Killarney
• Hotel for 2 nights in Dublin

Driving Time Shannon Airport - Limerick: 30 mins. approx. Limerick - Killarney: 2 hrs. approx. Killarney - Dublin: 3 hrs. 45 mins. approx.

Dubrovnik - Split - Zadar - Opatija - Zagreb (Self Drive)

8 nights from $509*

Take Croatia into your own hands, travelling between the most popular cities with a Rental Car. Start in Dubrovnik (the Pearl of the Adriatic), then drive to Split (a picturesque town with a lovely castle, cathedral and a few very interesting museums), then, Zadar (an impressive pre-Roman settlement known for their ports), Opatija and lastly, Zagreb (a vibrant destination with modern shops, restaurants and recreational facilities). This is a flexible vacation package. Select your number of nights in each city, desired hotel and activities.

• Hotel for 2 nights in Dubrovnik
• Rental Car for 5 days
• Hotel for 2 nights in Split
• Hotel for 1 night in Zadar
• Hotel for 1 night in Opatija
• Hotel for 2 nights in Zagreb

Driving Time Dubrovnik - Split: 3 hrs. 5 mins. approx. Split - Zadar: 3 hrs. 15 mins. approx. Zadar - Opatija: 1 hr. 20 mins. approx. Opatija - Zagreb: 2 hrs. 5 mins. approx.

Madrid - Seville - Granada by Train

8 nights from $459*

Discover Spain's most popular destinations, with visits to; Madrid (lively, energetic and vibrant - with a well earned reputation for its nightlife and cultural contributions with its diverse Spanish museums); Seville (a rich Moorish heritage, the passion of the Flamenco and the perfume of orange blossoms in every corner); and Granada (a historic Moorish-Christian artistic heritage and a UNESCO World Heritage site). Travel by train between cities. This is a flexible vacation package. Select your number of nights in each city, desired hotel and activities.

• Train from Madrid to Seville
• Hotel for 3 nights in Seville
• Train from Seville to Granada
• Hotel for 2 nights in Granada

London and Dublin by Air

6 nights from $589*

Experience two fascinating cities in England and Ireland with this customizable vacation package. Visit London (a world center of theatre, art, music, literature and culture) and then, fly to Dublin (a delightful mix of history and culture, with medieval, georgian and modern architecture). This is a flexible vacation package. Select your number of nights in each city, desired hotel and activities.

• Hotel for 3 nights in London
• Flight from London to Dublin
• Hotel for 3 nights in Dublin

Oslo - Copenhagen - Stockholm by Air

6 nights from $429*

The perfect Nordic Trio in Norway, Denmark and Sweeden . Visit Oslo (situated by a fjord and surrounded by hills and forests), Copenhagen (cozy European capital, filled with stunning architecture, historic sites, world-class museums, and some of the best shopping and dining in Europe) and Stockholm (built on 14 islands around one of Europe`s largest and best-preserved medieval city centers, with stunning and extremely varied scenery in every direction.) Travel between them by flights. This is a flexible package. Select your number of nights in each city, desired hotel and activities.

• Flight into Oslo and out of Stockholm
• Hotel for 2 nights in Oslo
• Flight from Oslo to Copenhagen
• Hotel for 2 nights in Copenhagen
• Flight Copenhagen to Stockholm
• Hotel for 2 nights in Stockholm

Athens - Mykonos - Santorini

10 nights from $819*

Our most popular combination in Greece! . Enjoy Athens (the cradle of civilization and home of democracy, is a heady mix of history and edginess with iconic monuments mingle with first-rate museum), up next by ferry/hydrofoils, visit Mykonos (famous for shopping, beach parties, and the very photogenic Mykonos Town and its windmills) and after that, to Santorini (recognizable for its whitewashed, cube-shaped buildings adorned with blue accents, steep cliffs and tangerine sunsets that light up the sky and sea). Finally, fly back to Athens to finish enjoying what the city has to offer. This is a flexible vacation package. Select your number of nights in each city, desired hotel and activities.

• Ferry from Athens to Mykonos Island
• Hotel for 3 nights in Mykonos Island
• Ferry from Mykonos Island to Santorini Island
• Hotel for 3 nights in Santorini Island
• Flight from Santorini Island to Athens
• Hotel for 1 night in Athens

Ferries/hydrofoils for the Islands do not operate in off seasons (autumn and winter) due to weather conditions

Paris - Monte Carlo - Nice by Train

6 nights from $609*

Take the time to enjoy this fantastic vacation package through France and Monaco ; Visit Paris (The city of lights with impressive monuments, museums, culture and gastronomy), then continue to Monte Carlo (Playground of the rich and famous, with its famous casino, famous Formula One Monaco Grand Prix, Oceanographic Museum and Aquarium, the Monaco Cathedral and the Prince's Palace). Travel between them by train. This is a flexible package. Select your number of nights in each city, desired hotel and activities.

• Train Paris - Montecarlo
• Hotel for 2 nights in Montecarlo
• Train Montecarlo - Nice
• Hotel for 1 night in Nice

Marrakech and Casablanca by Air

6 nights from $379*

Two Jewels of Morocco !. Visit Marrakech (core of the Berber culture with its medina, the Jemaa el Fna, Morocco`s UNESCO-recognized platform for halqa, the stately Koutoubia minaret and Majorelle Gardens) and Casablanca (vibrant metropolis with the awe-inspiring Hassan II Mosque; the Old Medina and the Shrine of Sidi Abderrahman). A flight connects these destinations. This is a flexible vacation package. Select your number of nights in each city, desired hotel and activities.

• Hotel for 3 nights in Marrakech
• Flight from Marrakech to Casablanca
• Hotel for 3 nights in Casablanca

From Venice to Rome via Tuscany plus Amalfi Coast

11 nights from $799*

Sample all that Italy has to offer from north to south, take your vacation into your own hands with the convenience of a rental car! Start off with a visit to beautiful Venice (charming canals, gorgeous palaces). Then pick up your car for a drive to Pisa (famous for its leaning Tower); continue to artistic Florence (home to the statue of David, and the famous Birth of Venus). Afterwards visit mystical Assisi , then drive down to charming Sorrento and finally visit Imperial Rome (the Vatican, centuries of artistic achievement). This is a flexible vacation package. Select your number of nights in each city, desired hotel and activities.

• Rent a car for 7 days
• Hotel for 2 nights in Pisa
• Hotel for 1 night in Assisi
• Hotel for 2 nights in Sorrento
• Hotel for 2 nights in Rome

Reunion Island - Mahe Island - Praslin Island by Air

6 nights from $1,089*

An Exotic African Holiday in Reunion and Seychelles Islands! . First enjoy Reunion Island (lying off the east coast of Africa; its famous for have one of the most active volcanoes in the world , hiking routes, beautiful villages and for its highest-quality vanilla plantations). After that, travel to the amazing Seychelles ; where the most famous island in the country; Mahe Island (capital city with beautiful beaches, local markets, big hotels and luxury resorts) and Praslin Island (Seychelles' second-biggest island; famed for having some of the world's most beautiful beaches, like Anse Lazio and Anse Georgette ; abundant wildlife, majestic palm trees, and wild nature trails) await you for unforgettable and relaxing days under the sun!. These destinations are connected by flights. This is a flexible vacation package. Select your number of nights in each city, desired hotel and activities.

• Hotel for 2 nights in Reunion Island
• Flight from Reunion Island to Mahe Island
• Hotel for 2 nights in Mahe Island
• Flight from Mahe Island to Praslin Island
• Hotel for 2 nights in Praslin Island

Emilia Romagna (Bologna - Rimini - Ravenna - Ferrara) and Venice by Train

12 nights from $619*

Combine Bologna (a thriving university town and architectural gem), Rimini  (Adriatic coast, in Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region), Ravenna (former capital of the Western Roman Empire, the Visigoth Empire, and the Byzantine Empire, but best known today for the Byzantine mosaic decoration of its churches and tombs), Ferrara (known for the buildings erected by its Renaissance rulers, the Este family) and Venice (built on more than 100 small islands in a lagoon in the Adriatic Sea. It has no roads, just canals, lined with Renaissance and Gothic palaces) with train between cities.  This is a flexible vacation package. Select your number of nights in each city, desired hotel and activities.

• Hotel for 3 nights in Bologna
• Train from Bologna to Rimini
• Hotel for 2 nights in Rimini
• Train from Rimini to Ravenna
• Hotel for 2 nights in Ravenna
• Train from Ravenna to Ferrara
• Hotel for 2 nights in Ferrara
• Train from Ferrara to Venice
• Hotel for 3 nights in Venice

Zurich and Grindelwald (Self Drive)

7 nights from $989*

Flawless cities in Switzerland with a Rental Car! . Combine Zurich (a global center for banking and finance, lies at the north end of Lake Zurich in northern Switzerland) and after that, drive to Grindelwald (a village in Switzerland’s Bernese Alps, is a popular gateway for the Jungfrau Region , with skiing in winter and hiking in summer). Drive back to Zurich for one last night stay, before returning home. This is a flexible vacation package. Select your number of nights in each city, desired hotel and activities.

• Hotel for 1 night in Zurich
• Rental Car for 6 days
• Hotel for 5 nights in Grindelwald

Driving Time Zurich - Grindelwald: 2 hrs. 15 mins. approx. Interlaken - Grindelwald: 2 hrs. 15 mins. approx.

Other Europe Vacation Packages

Paris and Prague by Air

Combine two of the most exciting countries in Europe: France and The Czech Republic with this vacation. Visit Paris (the romantic City of Lights; an enduring city, home to rich history - museums, architecture, shopping, fine food and wine) and Prague (known for its Old Town Square, with colorful baroque buildings, Gothic churches and its Medieval Astronomical Clock). This is a flexible vacation package. Select your number of nights in each city, desired hotel and activities.

• Flight from Paris to Prague
• Hotel for 3 nights in Prague

Lisbon and Porto by Train

Experience beautiful Portugal through two of its most popular destinations!. Begin your vacation in Lisbon (the dazzling capital with an ancient fortress at its heart with charming neighborhoods, local festivals, nightlife, and delectable food) and then, take a train to Porto (the former residence of the Royal Family; visit medieval cathedrals, concert halls, the national library and museums with breathtaking art treasures and porto wines!). This is a flexible vacation package. Select your number of nights in each city, desired hotel and activities.

• Train from Lisbon to Porto
• Hotel for 3 nights in Lisbon
• Hotel for 3 nights in Porto

Prague - Vienna - Budapest by Train

9 nights from $509*

Our most popular combo for Czech Republic , Austria and Hungary !. Visit Prague (`The City of a Hundred Spires` with 1,000 years of art and architecture), Vienna (City of music, cafes, waltzes, parks, pastries, and wine with stately streets and Baroque palaces) and Budapest (two cities in one: Buda built upon hills, Castle Hill and Gellert Hill and Pest, as flat as a pancake, the perfect contrast between the right and left banks, a vibrant city). Transportation between cities by train. This is a flexible vacation package. Select your number of nights in each city, desired hotels and activities.

• Train from Prague to Vienna
• Hotel for 3 nights in Vienna
• Train from Vienna to Budapest
• Hotel for 3 nights in Budapest

Europe In the Spotlight

London and bath by train.

6 nights from $739*

Athens - Santorini - Heraklion by Air

9 nights from $729*

Athens and Santorini by Air

6 nights from $369*

Lisbon - Coimbra - Porto (Self Drive)

8 nights from $640*

Lisbon and Albufeira (Self Drive)

6 nights from $389*

Explore Europe & All Countries

• Bosnia Herzegovina
• Czech Republic
• Faroe Islands
• Ivory Coast
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• Northern Ireland
• Sao Tome and Principe
• South Africa
• Switzerland
• United Arab Emirates

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Say Yes to Greece

Explore all the places we go in Europe

THIS IS WHAT AWAITS IN EUROPE

Towering castles. Untamed natural beauty. Captivating history. Can’t-miss cuisine. This is your time, your moment, your chance to discover Europe.

Destination Must-Sees

One of the most well-known tourist destinations in Greece, Olympia is located in the western Peloponnese, known as the “Valley of the Gods.” Surrounded by beautiful scenery from the Arcadian Mountains, it is home of the first Olympic Games that were held in 776 B. Step into history when you walk through the ruins of the ancient Olympic stadium or witness amazing sculptures at the museum.

France’s romantic capital is a must-see destination, and a gorgeous gateway to the wonders the rest of this country has to offer. Whether your ideal Parisian getaway has you spending some free time sipping coffee at a café and watching the bustling city life, roaming the halls of art at the Louvre, or exploring the bohemian artist’s haven — the Montmartre neighborhood, there’s rich history and culture abound in every corner of the City of Light.

Irish countryside:

Take in the atmosphere of quaint seaside villages, see awe inspiring views of the Lakes of Killarney and explore the picturesque town of Kinsale. Wherever you travel in the countryside, you’ll find that the rolling hills and friendly people you encounter will become a part of your fabric.

Ancient cities of Italy:

Italy is positively brimming with the world’s most famous Roman ruins like the Colosseum, Pompeii and many other relics from the ancient past. In fact, many cities in Italy still hold evidence of what once was. You can find an aqueduct, city gate, Roman theater or the ruins of an entire city there.

Destination Must-Dos

Meteora Monastery:

Over 600 years ago Byzantine monks chose to build their monastic community atop limestone rock “towers” that extend nearly 900 feet into the air, making them virtually inaccessible. It is one of the greatest monuments in the world, and is the most important monastic center in Greece. You can climb these rocks and travel the paths hidden behind the massive rocks.

The Palace of Versailles

The iconic Palace of Versailles (UNESCO) and its gardens reflect the extravagant tastes of King Louis XIV, the "Sun King." Alongside a local guide, learn the history and admire the various rooms of the State Apartments, including the Queen's bedchamber and the famous Hall of Mirrors. Be sure to explore the incredible gardens, some of the most famous in the world, which took over 40 years to complete and include intricate architecture, elaborate fountains, and gorgeous statues.

Drift down a canal:

While canals are found across Europe, nothing beats a romantic gondola ride in Venice. Locals like to say the best way to explore the city is to ‘get lost.’ So take a ride along these waterways, step off and then wind your way through the intricate blend of bridges, narrow streets and grand squares.

This was the first capital of Spain located about 43 miles south of Madrid. The history of Toledo dates back to the Roman occupation circa 192 B.C. The old city of Toledo sits atop of a small mountain surrounded on three sides by the Tagus River, and medieval walls on the fourth. From the top of the mountain you can get a 180 degree view of the surrounding landscape.

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The Balkans From Coastal Croatia to Legendary Greece

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Magnificent landscapes combined with the country’s charming traditions and customs offer new experiences unlike anywhere else in the world. Famous for bullfighting, Spain allows you to grab life by the horns and dive into adventure. Whether it’s the eye-catching architecture of Madrid, the bold Spanish wines, or the shimmering Costa del Sol, this country remains a delight to the senses. Once you experience Spain, you’ll never want to leave and when you do, you’ll always be craving more.

Whether it’s old-world traditions and wonderful culture, cuisine, history, fashion or natural beauty, Italy is special to many people for different reasons. Few other countries boast so many legendary cities. There are also many charming hill towns and coastal villages that showcase Italy’s amazing natural beauty. From the big cities to the small towns, there is always something exciting to see in Italy. With so many reasons to visit, the rest is up to you!

A rendezvous with a magnifique experience awaits! As cliché as it sounds, France truly has something for everyone. With over two dozen cities, each with their own nuances of the French culture and contributions to its history, architecture, art and last but not least, the gastronomical delights that the French are famous for throughout the world are yours to explore, experience and fall in love with during your stay. Coast to coast, border to border, there are seemingly endless variations on your French experience to be had. Rolling hills and scenic valleys lined with the fruit of the gods; seaside towns, along sandy beaches with views you just might be sharing with royalty; or maybe snowcapped mountain ranges providing some of the best skiing in the world and an adrenaline rush to match is what you seek. Whatever you decide, France easily makes you feel as if you have stepped out of reality and into the art you learned about and loved since you were a child.

This European paradise is often referred to as the land of a thousand islands. Located on the east bank of the Adriatic Sea across from Italy, some say that a trip to Croatia is to experience “the Mediterranean as it once was.” It is a natural and historic setting for the many activities and cultural experiences that lie ahead. The art of wellness is practiced along its shores – be sure to indulge in a heavenly spa treatment.

From the coasts of the Mediterranean to the top of Mount Olympus, Greece is a place grand enough for mythical gods and friendly enough for travelers alike. Uncover its ancient ruins and relics and take in an iconic landscape of whitewashed homes. This is only the beginning of the endless wonders you’ll find when you first set foot on Greek soil.

A gem of the Iberian Peninsula, Portugal is a paradise. On the coasts, sun-soaked beaches meet breathtaking hillside towns all down the edge of the Atlantic Ocean. In the cities, ancient structures rise up shoulder-to-shoulder with modern living. Everywhere you turn, you can find mouth-watering food paired with delicious local wines, medieval architecture paired with Moorish artistic influence, and friendly locals paired with charming attitudes. No matter what you seek, when you go, where you look, or how long you stay, Portugal offers something for every traveler.

At the heart of Europe, monumental contemporary and historic events shape today’s Germany. From the fall of the Berlin Wall to the rise of the Beatles in Hamburg, the culture of the country is marked by its influential past and present. Imagine yourself exploring postcard-worthy castles such as Neuschwanstein or wandering through medieval cities such as Regensburg. From the Bavarian Alps to the Rhine Gorge to the plains of the north, the range of Germany’s landscapes will capture your heart. Perhaps you’ll also indulge your taste buds as you sample the delicious Marzipan sweet treats of the Hanseatic port of Lubeck, which have been produced there for over 200 years. Whether on a journey on the ‘Romantic Road’ or cruising along the Rhine, know that a stein of German beer or a glass of wine from the Rhine vineyards are both a worthy compliment to a destination that offers far more than the average traveler anticipates.

Switzerland

Incredible skiing on the Swiss Alps and delectable Swiss chocolate are only two reasons for visiting Switzerland. Located between Austria, France, Germany and Italy, you can get quite a diverse European cultural experience depending on which region of Switzerland you choose. And though the food, music, art and people themselves are very much influenced by their European neighbors, they are all still uniquely Swiss. You will leave with plenty of memories to savor for a lifetime.

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Enjoy afternoon tea in London

Sample over 300-years of history in the simplicity of homemade scones with whipped cream and jam. This deliciously British treat is best enjoyed in the afternoon, complete with a hot cup of Earl Grey, cucumber sandwiches and a tower of sugary delights.

Explore ancient Athens

You don't need to be a historian to appreciate the significance of Athens. Your love affair with the city might begin with goddess Athena’s Parthenon temple and the ruins of Acropolis, but it’s likely to end in a quaint alleyway getting a glimpse at daily life in this ancient capital. The story of Athens continues to unfold.

Catch a flamenco show in Spain

Discover the soul-stirring emotion of a Flamenco show in Spain. This expressive art-form has an intangible cultural heritage recognised by UNESCO, merging song, dance and musical instruments into a performance that has to be experienced at least once. Finish with dinner of paella or tapas to round off your perfect evening.

View the Northern Lights in Iceland

Mother Nature’s wonders come to life with the Aurora Borealis or ‘Northern Lights’. In the frosty landscapes of Iceland, this light display offers viewers a genuine pinch-me moment as vivid colours dance across the night sky.

Spend a night at the opera in Vienna

Hear the talents of traditional opera with the ghosts of Mozart and Strauss in your presence. Though there are more than few places to catch the opera in Vienna, none can compare to the State Opera House (Staatsoper).

Our top 5 things to do in Europe & Britain

There are endless pinch-me moments to be found across the many countries that make up our Europe travel packages. But where to even begin? Perhaps a Flamenco show in Spain, afternoon tea in London or a Northern Lights viewing in frosty Iceland? Here are some of the highlights of our Europe and Britain trips that you're sure to love. 

Paris, France

The world’s largest gallery and the home of Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, the Louvre is without rival in the art world and is a must see when in Paris. Allow an entire day to explore its eight departments, not missing the Egyptian antiquities, Islamic art and various halls of sculptures. End your day with sunset by the Louvre Pyramid.

London, England

The British Museum

With some eight million works within its permanent collection, The British Museum is an illustrious European landmark. Admire objects brought back from the voyages of Captain James Cook and walk in the controversial presence of the Parthenon Marbles.

Florence, Italy

Uffizi Gallery

The Tuscan capital is home to Uffizi Gallery, where the brushworks of art’s true masters can be found. Names like Raffaello, Leonardo, and Michelangelo fill Uffizi’s grand pink walls, whilst internal courtyards leading to the Arno River reveal the building’s architectural brilliance.

Best museums in Europe & Britain

When traveling Europe with Trafalgar, museum hopping is one of the best ways to understand the culture and history of the places you visit. You’ll find yourself critiquing ancient art and staring in awe at some of the world’s most prominent works. Here are some of our favorites.

Paella Valenciana

Saffron, snails, butterbeans and bomba rice are just some of the ingredients you might find in traditional Spanish paella. Despite originating from the coastal town of Valencia, Paella Valenciana is a variety without seafood. You'll love sitting back to enjoy a steaming plate over the sounds of Spanish jazz in a lively alfresco restaurant.

Beef Stroganoff

Now a staple dish in many parts of the world, beef stroganoff is best enjoyed in its birthplace in Russia with a vodka in hand. This simple dish of beef strips sauteed in a sour cream sauce offers a heart-warming taste of this country’s culinary heritage.

Bouillabaisse

The Mediterranean city of Marseille is where a French culinary icon can be found and devoured. The fragrant stew of bouillabaisse, commonly served with crusty white bread, boils up the finest local seafood and seasonal vegetables with the flavors of fennel, saffron and cayenne pepper.

Best food in Europe & Britain

Our trips to Europe gravitate around indulgent local mealtimes. With new cuisines and cooking methodologies found at every turn, this continent is simply delicious. 

What to pack for a tour in Europe

With such a large expanse of space to explore on a European travel tour, on some days, long journeys are unavoidable. The scenery will provide plenty of visual entertainment, while headphones can be used to listen to some local music or enjoy podcasts about European history, culture and politics when you're not enjoying the storytelling from your Travel Director.

A good book

Exploring Europe is best done at a relaxed pace with ample opportunity to absorb your surroundings. Dedicate a few days to sitting in a park or a cafe, alternating between reading and watching the world go by.

Versatile shoes

Within the space of one outing you may experience all kinds of terrain when in Europe. Pack shoes that can see you walking from an elegant restaurant to a cobbled footpath, with a stroll along the soft grass of a park in between.

A blank journal

With the wealth of inspiration tucked into every corner of Europe, you may find yourself compelled to write down notes or memories. At the very least to share recommendations with friends when you return home.

All climate clothing

No matter the time of year you travel, Europe can deliver a myriad of temperatures. From frosty cities of Scandinavia to the temperate hills of Portugal, layered clothing best suits the varying micro-climates across this continent.

Pack for sustainable travel

Consider your environmental impact when you next take a trip and go single-use-plastic-free by packing a reusable water bottle, a steel straw, your own shopping bags and refillable toiletry bottles.

Our Europe & Britain destinations

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European Discovery (Winter, Start London, Classic, 12 Days)

Europe escape, europe jewel, european horizon (start london, end london, 11 days), the great adventure, anatolian civilizations | 10 days (small group), train tours italy: venice, florence, rome, sorrento by train, european delight, european highlights escape - 12 days, mamma mia - 13 days/12 nights.

• In-depth Cultural
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“Good coordination and good infrastructure.”

• Cruise the canals of Amsterdam and the Rhine River in Germany
• Enjoy free days in Rome, Paris, and the Swiss Alps
• Taste local German wine and say prost in a traditional beer hall

“amazing. with abundance knowledge”

• See the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa
• Free days in Prague, the Swiss Alps and Paris
• Cruise Amsterdam’s canals and sail along the Rhine River in Germany

“We loved our trip and feel we got a lot of 'bang for the buck'. The included meals and tours were fantastic.”

• Wine tasting
• Watch and sip champagne at a Parisian Cabaret Show
• See the famous Lorelei Rock in Rhine Valley
• Enjoy a canal cruise with an onboard bar in Amsterdam

“very knowledgeable, fun and overall great personality.”

• Christmas & New Year

“The hotels were good, but some hotels were packed for breakfast time. It was a chance to meet new friends and learning the history and culture of different countries.”

• Most comprehensive itinerary of Central and Western Anatolia
• Free Wi-Fi on the bus (between days 3-9) 
• Whirling Dervishes Ceremony in Cappadocia Cave Lodge

“The balloon flight was excellent. Unfortunately, we contracted COVID-19 on the tour.”

• Train & Rail
• • Guaranteed departure
• • Professional guide for the entire duration of the tour
• • A guided tour of every visited place of interest

“Sharing her wealth of knowledge in Italy made it an incredibly enjoyable and easy trip.”

• Savour Hungarian cuisine and enjoy a Danube boat tour
• Discover the ancient Rome and tour the historic Florence
• Visit Saint Mark's Basilica and the Murano glass factory

“The Vatican City is a principal centre of Christianity in the world. You will be able to visit St. Peter's Basilica.”

• Historical, Cultural & Exploration Experiences
• 5 European Countries
• Amsterdam, Bruges, Paris, Zurich, Venice, Florence & Rome

“DOT was nothing short of extraordinary with their customer service. We will be booking with DOT travel eu.”

• Explore Venice's canals
• Walk around the Vatican
• Visit the famous city of Pompeii

“Antonio is the sweetest guy ever we loved him.”

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Europe Jewel

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Irish Explorer

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Explore the virtually unspoilt mountains of the Albanian Alps. Holiday by Albania's pristine sandy beaches such as Vlora and Dhermi along the beautiful Adriatic and Ionian Sea coastlines. Visit villages and towns almost untouched by the passing years and sip a glass of local raki (strong alcoholic aperitif made with plums and grapes) at any bar or restaurant.

Albania travel guide

Nestled high in the Pyrenees, the tiny principality of Andorra sits snugly between Spain and France. It is at once French and Spanish, the languages of both become intermingled, and you’ll find a lot of culture and cuisine from both countries. Principally known as a ski haven, the picturesque mountains attract a lot of enthusiasts, it also has the best resorts in all of the Pyrenees.

Austria may be small but it's also packed with variety, from grand Hapsburg palaces to mountain-framed alpine-green pastures. Stick to the cities to sip cream-smothered Viennese coffees in chandelier-lit cafes or trawl contemporary art galleries in fast developing Linz. Head for the great outdoors for lively aprés-ski chalets or ski down Tyrol's snowy Alps.

Austria travel guide

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• Vienna holidays

Belgium is a fascinating country, with two languages, French and Flemish, and two atmospheres to experience. Take in the cobbled lanes of diamond-capital Antwerp and chocoholic Brussels, pausing for a Lambic beer in medieval squares. Be invigorated on the sandy beaches and dunes of the Flemish coast, and the leafy waterways that criss-cross the country.

Belgium travel guide

Explore Sofia's Byzantine churches and fashionable boutiques, and Plovdiv's picturesque old quarter. Then head to Bulgaria's hills for hidden away monasteries and heritage-filled villages. Experience Bulgaria's extremes, from Black Sea beaches in Varna and Bourgas to fast-developing ski resorts like Bansko and Pamporovo. Get to grips with Balkan history, or just kick back and immerse yourself in traditional Bulgarian music.

Bulgaria travel guide

On vacations in Croatia, explore the mountainous Adriatic coast and its Dalmatian Islands. Visit Croatia's most fashionable holiday destination, medieval-walled Dubrovnik, and the glamorous island of Hvar. Head north to Istria for truffles and fine wine, or travel inland for Croatia's capital, Zagreb. In pretty Split, the jewel of the Dalmatian Coast, explore the atmospheric Old Town. Or stretch out on the stunning sands of the Makarska Riviera.

Croatia travel guide

Fall in love with Aphrodite's isle on your holiday. Fly to Larnaca to spot colourful fish in the crystal waters at Cyprus' rugged Cape Greco and bronzed bodies on party resort Ayia Napa's sandy Nissi Beach. Explore Venetian walls in the capital, Nicosia, and Roman mosaics in the resort of Paphos. Enjoy fresh fish and seafood at Latchi's habourside tavernas.

Cyprus travel guide

Czech Republic

From Karlovy Vary's celebrity-filled spas to the snow slopes of the Krkonose Mountains and Plzen's Pilsner Urquell beer, there's plenty to entice you to the Czech Republic. Prague remains a highlight with its cobbled historic centre and vast Prague Castle. But don't miss out on a visit to the beautiful, UNESCO-listed town of Cesky Krumlov.

Czech Republic travel guide

Explore Denmark's 400 islands and its mainland, Jutland, to discover its unique mix of sea-faring history, fresh Nordic air and fast-paced cities. Visit cosmopolitan capital Copenhagen to experience Denmark's royal heritage at Amalienborg Palace and its Viking past at the National Museum.

Denmark travel guide

Discover Finland's wide open spaces, lakes and arctic mystery, as well as its urban sophistication. Catch the midnight sun, the Northern Lights and the icy wilderness. You'll appreciate the huge contrast with the busy capital, Helsinki, and the stimulating cultural attractions of provincial cities like Tampere. Families will be drawn by its connections with Santa Claus and Tove Janssen's classic children's characters, the Moomins.

Finland flights

From world-class art at Paris's Louvre to Brittany’s windswept sandy beaches, France is a feast for the senses. Medieval history comes alive along Strasbourg’s cobblestoned lanes, while sporty types head to Chamonix for skiing. Lavender-hued Provence was Cézanne’s inspiration, and in Amiens, the bells ring out from its gothic cathedral.

France travel guide

• Tignes Val Claret

Picture Germany and Berlin's iconic Brandenburg Gate, Munich's lively beer hall tradition and creamy Black Forest gateau spring to mind. But there's more. Slip under Germany's skin to find storybook villages, rich culture and hearty food.

Germany travel guide

It may overlook North Africa, but Gibraltar sometimes feels more British than Britain itself. An overseas territory of the United Kingdom since 1713, this rock jutting out from the Andalusian coast has streets lined with English tearooms, pubs and red post boxes.

Gibraltar travel guide

Take a holiday in Greece to explore ancient Greek monuments in Athens and Byzantine relics in Greece's second city, Thessaloniki. In the north, visit the Meteora region's remote medieval monasteries. Sun-soaked sands and sleepy villages or vibrant resorts await on the Greek islands of Rhodes and Kos. While the natural beauty and traditional charm of Crete and Corfu will captivate.

Greece travel guide

• Thessaloniki

Explore Hungary's diverse countryside from the mountainous north to the southern plains. Or discover relics of the country's history from Roman ruins to communist-era architecture in its villages, cities and fortified castles. Relax in curative spa baths in Budapest and sample traditional goulash - beef stew with paprika.

Hungary travel guide

You won’t be disappointed by the abundance of natural wonders that Iceland has to offer. Tick off waterfalls and geysers on a Golden Circle tour. Or enjoy a luxurious soak in the Blue Lagoon’s famous geothermal pools. Then explore Reykjavik, the world’s most northerly capital, and absorb the cosmopolitan charm of this colourful city.

Iceland travel guide

Italy is a trove of historical treasures – from the Colosseum in the eternal city, Rome, to Milan’s soaring Gothic Duomo cathedral. From the top of the Leaning Tower, Pisa’s cityscape unfolds, and art-lovers can look for their favourite Renaissance paintings in Florence. Drink in Italy’s seductive natural beauty – from the dramatic seascape of the Amalfi Coast and verdant olive groves of Tuscany, to Sardinia’s awe-inspiring gorges and pristine beaches.

Italy travel guide

• Amalfi coast

Stand on the Adolphe Bridge and you see Europe in a nutshell. Landlocked by Belgium, Germany and France, Luxembourg City might be Europe central, but it’s one European capital many of us have yet to explore. Luxembourg has several EU institutions seated in its ridiculously pretty medieval capital. The Ville Haute and Ville Basse are at the capital’s historic core, while the Ardennes provides epic natural scenery.

Clichéd as it may sound, Malta effortlessly ticks every box - with its warm temperatures, amazing scenery and fascinating history. This surprisingly diverse archipelago of rocky outcrops, Malta, Gozo and Comino, is home to ancient walled cities, glittering hidden caves and an energetic nightlife that rivals Ibiza.

Malta travel guide

Discover this compact country’s many jewels, from its stunning Adriatic coastline to its amazingly biodiverse nature spots. Sweep along the sparkling Bay of Kotor calling in at beautifully well-kept medieval towns such as Herceg Novi and Petrovac. Wander around narrow, winding cityscapes admiring the terracotta roofs and maybe call in at some wineries on the Wine Route between Podgorica and Lake Skadar.

Montenegro travel guide

Drive through flower-strewn lowlands and pass picturesque canals to funky capital Amsterdam with its exciting blend of culture, history and late-night partying. Or mingle in the hip bars and contemporary design shops of buzzing second city Rotterdam and you'll soon admire how the Netherlands combines the best of the old and the new.

Netherlands travel guide

Discover pristine natural beauty, from the deep blue fjords and vast wilderness of the Jostedalsbreen glacier to the sparsely populated Arctic islands. Cosmopolitan Oslo is packed with museums and eclectic bars, but escape the capital to find remote villages of wooden houses nestled deep in the mountains. Visit in summer to make the most of never-ending days under the midnight sun.

Norway travel guide

From the Baltic Sea's famous shipyards in Gdansk to the snowy peaks of the Tatra Mountains and Krakow's Old Town, Poland has something for everyone. The central capital, Warsaw, may not be as beautiful as Krakow, but has its own charm with some of Poland's best restaurant and club action. Explore the relative newcomer to the tourist scene, Wroclaw on the Oder River.

Poland travel guide

Holidays in Portugal take you to Lisbon's Manueline (Portuguese Gothic) Belm Tower and Porto's port wine caves. Unwind on beautiful beaches or hone your skills on championship golf courses in the Algarve. With flights to cosmopolitan Funchal, discover the mesmerising beauty of Madeira. Spectacular scenery and a warm year-round climate create this island-idyll’s enduring appeal.

Portugal travel guide

Experience Romania's extremes, from the unchanged folk traditions of the Maramures area in the north to the thriving bars of fashionable university city Cluj-Napoca. Stroll the narrow streets of baroque Brasov and discover the eclectic capital of Bucharest. Come back to go hiking in Transylvanias mountains and sunbathing on the Black Sea coast.

Romania travel guide

Soak up the beauty of Slovenia, from turquoise lakes to towering mountain peaks –and discover its ever-changing landscape. Begin with picturesque castles in Ljubljana, then journey west to the Vršič Pass. Otherwise, go south to see the Postojna Cave or west to the coastal town of Piran.

In majestic Madrid, the Prado gallery houses haunting El Greco paintings, and 20th-century art fills Frank Gehry’s Guggenheim in Bilbao. It’s easy to pack your Barcelona visit with Gaudi’s eccentric mosaics, while in vibrant Seville the royal palace Alcazar drips with Moorish influence. Snorkel in the south coast’s warm Mediterranean waters. Or discover the Canary Islands of Fuerteventura and Tenerife, with their sun-drenched sandy beaches and striking volcanic landscapes.

Spain travel guide

• Fuerteventura
• Gran Canaria

Visit Sweden's arctic north for mountainous wilderness or the eastern Baltic coast for rocky islands. You'll find a very different feel in the south of Sweden, where the cities of Gothenburg, Stockholm and Malm ooze urban sophistication. Or visit the capital city, Stockholm, also known as the Venice of the North' find out why by exploring its striking architecture and delightful waterside setting.

Sweden travel guide

Switzerland

Take France, Italy and Germany's best bits, mix them all together and you'll soon see why people return to Switzerland again and again. If you love the great outdoors head straight for Switzerland's snow-capped Alps, rippling mountain-framed lakes near Geneva or the winding meadow trails of Zurich. Or relax in picturesque towns sipping coffee and people watching on historic squares.

Switzerland travel guide

Take a holiday to Turkey to visit Istanbul's famous 17th-century Blue Mosque. Then head for the sandy beaches of the Turquoise Coast, or Cappadocia's moonscape rock formations. Turkey is all about contrasts…Ancient ruins mingle with renowned nightspots in Bodrum. Beyond the thriving resorts around Dalaman, traditional Turkish culture can be observed at its bazaars and hammams.

Turkey destination guide

Soak in the culture, history and effortless charm on a last minute city break to Europe. Or soak up the summer sun on a beach holiday in the Mediterranean. Take advantage of our hand-baggage only fares or enjoy guaranteed savings when you book a flight and hotel together. Our European holidays go beyond your expectations.

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Europe beach holidays, europe city breaks, all inclusive holidays.

Kennedy Hotel

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Beach holidays.

Europe’s best hidden beaches

Oh we do like to be beside the seaside… unless, of course, it means lying towel to towel with a complete stranger on a packed beach. But if you want to sunbathe in peace, escape Europe’s bucket-and-spade brigade at one of these secret stretches of sand where towel space is guaranteed. Just don’t tell everyone…

Harriet Cooper

for British Airways

City breaks

Europe’s most romantic cities

With majestic architecture, old-world grandeur and intimate streets tucked away from the crowds, Europe’s romantic appeal is undeniable. These five charming cities are guaranteed to bring back that loving feel – and make your friends jealous.

Christopher Beanland

FAMILY HOLIDAYS

Europe: six educational city breaks

Home to some of the most fascinating ancient cultures in the world, Greece makes a great break if you want to inspire your children. Have a history lesson in Athens as you tour its ancient sites – plus discover five more great educational breaks.

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17 Best Summer Destinations in Europe (2024)

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: August 15, 2024

Looking for where to go for your summer in Europe? This guide covers the best summer destinations in Europe, as well as beaches, culture, and adventure. Top spots like Dubrovnik, the Algarve, and the Greek Islands . Europe has a mix of popular summer hotspots and hidden gems for all kinds of travelers, from beach lovers to adventure seekers.

Summer in Dubrovnik it’s like stepping into a fairy tale. The old town charm and those beaches along the Adriatic Sea are unbeatable. Then there’s the Algarve in Portugal , where we spent days lounging on golden sandy beaches and exploring dramatic sea cliffs. It’s the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure.

Another favorite trip was the Amalfi Coast . Picture colorful towns clinging to dramatic cliffs and stunning views around every corner. We spent our days eating delicious Italian gelato and wandering the streets. And don’t get me started on the Path of the Gods hiking trail – an adventure lover’s dream!

The Greek Islands are another must-see. Island hopping was so much fun; each island had its own charm. Mykonos for the nightlife, Santorini for the sunsets, and Crete for the culture. The clear waters and villages made it a summer to never forget. Travel sustainably in Europe and make your trip even better; book eco-lodges and support local. It’s a win-win.

Table of Contents

Top Destinations for a Summer Vacation in Europe

Europe’s top summer destinations offer a delightful mix of sunny weather, rich cultural experiences, and unforgettable adventures. Whether you’re sipping wine under the Mediterranean sun or exploring picturesque villages, these destinations promise to make your summer vacation truly memorable.

Here are some of the best summer destinations in Europe that should be on your travel radar.

1. Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik, aka the Pearl of the Adriatic, is a destination with stunning beaches and an old town that really stands out. The ancient city walls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are the backdrop to your summer.

As you walk through Dubrovnik’s narrow streets, you’ll feel like you’ve gone back in time, especially if you’re a Game of Thrones fan, as the city was the filming location for King’s Landing. The beaches along the Adriatic Sea are perfect for sunbathing and dipping.

Plan Your Trip To Dubrovnik With Our Guides:

• 14 Best Luxury Hotels in Dubrovnik, Croatia
• 22 Best Things to do in Dubrovnik, Croatia
• Where to Stay in Dubrovnik – Guide to the Best Neighborhoods

2. Algarve, Portugal

The Algarve in Portugal is famous for its golden beaches, dramatic cliffs, and fishing villages. This region has relaxation and adventure in spades, making it one of the top summer spots in Europe. Whether you’re exploring the coastline, water sports, or eating local food, the Algarve will be the summer of a lifetime. Don’t miss the Benagil Cave, which is a natural wonder you can only access by boat.

Plan Your Trip To The Algarve With Our Guides:

• Best Things to Do in the Algarve: Your Ultimate Guide
• Where to Stay in Algarve: 5 Best Areas To Stay
• 3 Days in the Algarve Itinerary
• Benagil Cave in 2024 – New Rules, Helpful Tips & The Best Tours

3. Amalfi Coast, Italy

The Amalfi Coast is a dream destination with its villages and Mediterranean views. This coastal gem has towns perched on cliffs, with stunning scenery around every corner. We spent our days wandering the streets, eating gelato, and visiting the Amalfi Cathedral. The nearby Path of the Gods hiking trail is something you should not miss. The views are incredible.

The Amalfi Coast is a sensory overload. The colors of the towns, the scent of the lemon groves, and the sound of the waves crashing against the cliffs is magic. Whether you’re eating al fresco with a view or lounging on one of the beaches, the Amalfi Coast is the perfect combination of relaxation and adventure.

Plan Your Trip To The Amalfi Coast With Our Guides:

• 18 Beautiful Amalfi Coast Towns to Visit
• 16 Best Things to Do On The Amalfi Coast
• 18 Best Things to Do in Positano
• Cinque Terre Vs Amalfi Coast: Which One To Visit

4. Greek Islands

The Greek Islands are a summer paradise, with clear waters, beautiful beaches, and rich culture. Island hopping is the way to go here; you can visit multiple islands on one trip. Mykonos is for the party people, while Santorini and Crete are for people interested in something more relaxed or into a more cultural experience.

Each island has its own charm, from the white buildings of Santorini to the ancient ruins of Crete. Enjoy Greek food , visit villages, and enjoy the Mediterranean views. The Greek Islands are one of our favorite summer destinations.

Plan Your Trip To Greece With Our Guides:

• 21 Best Greek Islands to Visit
• Where to Stay in Santorini: Our Guide to The Best Places
• 23 Unique Things to Do in Crete
• 22 Best Things to do in Mykonos
• 42 Best Things to Do in Santorini, Greece

5. Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is a city that has art, culture, and beach life. Famous for its Mediterranean vibe and Gaudi’s architecture, this city is a visual feast. Walk through the markets, relax on the city beaches, and eat tapas. The city has a lively atmosphere and nightlife, so it’s a top summer spot.

You can get a taste of Barcelona’s culture by taking a tapas cooking class. And if you’re here in mid-July, don’t miss one of the summer festivals, Sónar or Primavera Sound. Barcelona has something for every kind of traveler.

Plan Your Trip To Barcelona With Our Guides:

• Where to Stay in Barcelona This Year: Our Favorite Places And Neighbourhoods
• 28 of the Best Places to Visit in Barcelona
• How to Visit Barcelona on a Budget
• 19 Best Day Trips From Barcelona

Hidden Gems: Underrated Summer Getaways

While the usual summer hotspots are always popular, Europe has many hidden gems that offer a peaceful experience away from the crowds.

These under-the-radar summer getaways are perfect for those who want to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations that are just as beautiful and full of culture.

6. Bay of Kotor, Montenegro

The Bay of Kotor is a fjord-like inlet in Montenegro that has stunning views and a mix of cultural experiences. The medieval Old Town of Kotor is perfect for wandering through narrow pedestrian streets and finding historical landmarks. For the adventurous, a hike up to the Kotor Fortress has stunning views of the bay.

The Bay of Kotor feels like going back in time. The steep cliffs and calm waters create a dramatic and peaceful atmosphere, perfect for a summer escape. The best times to visit are April, May, September, and October, when the weather is nice, and the crowds are small.

7. Ljubljana, Slovenia

Ljubljana, Slovenia’s capital, is a charming and lively city during the summer months. The city offers a perfect blend of old-town charm and modern metropolis vibes, making it ideal for exploration.

Stroll through the picturesque streets, visit notable landmarks like Ljubljana Castle and Triple Bridge, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere that the city offers.

8. Lofoten Islands, Norway

The Lofoten Islands in Norway are a nature lover’s and adventure seeker’s paradise. Famous for their dramatic landscapes, towering mountains, and deep fjords, these islands offer a summer adventure. In the summer, the islands have almost 24 hours of daylight, so endless opportunities for exploration and outdoor activities.

Hiking, kayaking, and fishing are popular activities in the Lofoten Islands to get up close and personal with the stunning nature. The continuous daylight creates a surreal and magical atmosphere, it’s a must visit for those who want a unique and unforgettable summer trip.

Adventure Seekers’ Paradise

If you love adventure and the great outdoors, Europe has plenty of destinations for you. From hiking snow capped peaks to kayaking in crystal clear waters, these places have it all.

9. Interlaken, Switzerland

Interlaken is sandwiched between two beautiful lakes and surrounded by towering mountains. Whether you’re hiking the trails, paragliding over the scenery, or taking a boat trip across the lakes, Interlaken has it all for every adventurer.

Interlaken is a charming town, with its old town and laid-back vibe. Don’t miss Jungfraujoch , known as the ‘Top of Europe’, for the most incredible views you’ll ever see. Interlaken is the ultimate summer adventure destination.

Plan Your Trip To Switzerland With Our Guides:

• 28 Best Things to Do in Interlaken
• Is Switzerland Expensive To Visit? Trip Costs
• 27 Best Things to Do in Switzerland
• 15 Beautiful Cities in Switzerland That We Loved

10. Iceland

Iceland is a land of fire and ice, with volcanic landscapes, geysers, and hot springs. In the summer, the country is alive with 24 hours of daylight, so there’s plenty of time for adventure. Hiking, horseback riding, and whale watching are popular activities, so it’s a nature lover’s paradise.

Iceland is best explored by caravanning, so you can go at your own pace and discover the hidden gems along the way. Whether you’re soaking in the Blue Lagoon or gazing at the waterfalls, Iceland is the ultimate summer adventure.

Plan Your Trip To Iceland With Our Guides:

• Ultimate Iceland Ring Road Itinerary: Explore the Best of Iceland in 10 Days
• How Much Does An Iceland Trip Cost: Detailed Budget Breakdown
• South Coast of Iceland: 31 Best Things to Do and See
• 22 Best Things to do in Iceland

11. Lake Bled, Slovenia

Lake Bled in Slovenia is a pretty spot for outdoor activities and relaxation. Surrounded by stunning mountain scenery, it has kayaking, hiking, and cycling.

The serene atmosphere and stunning natural beauty make Lake Bled an ideal destination for a peaceful yet adventurous summer getaway.

Cultural and Historical Hotspots

Europe is a treasure trove of cultural and historical hotspots for history lovers and culture vultures. From ancient ruins to cities that buzz, these places have stories to tell and experiences to immerse you in.

12. Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul is a city where the East meets the West and history meets the modern. The iconic Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace are must-sees that will take you back in time. Istanbul is a top destination for history lovers at any time of the year.

Walking through the bustling bazaars, tasting the Turkish delights, and seeing the Bosphorus are just a few of the experiences that will await you in this amazing city. We have visited on several occasions and always find a new reason to fall in love with Istanbul. Old and new blend together for an unforgettable summer.

Plan Your Trip To Istanbul With Our Guides:

• 3 Days In Istanbul Itinerary
• 27 Best Things to do in Istanbul, Turkey
• The Blue Mosque of Istanbul and tips for Entry

13. Rome, Italy

Rome is an open-air museum, so it’s a city full of history and cultural heritage. You can visit the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Pantheon; all of them will give you a glimpse of the city’s glorious past. The narrow streets and the people are part of the charm, so, despite it being very crowded, it’s a top summer destination for us.

No trip to Rome is complete without eating authentic Italian food . From pasta to pizza to gelato, the city’s food will make your taste buds happy. Rome has history, culture, and food, which is the perfect combination for any European summer.

Plan Your Trip To Rome With Our Guides:

• Where to Stay in Rome: Our Favourite Places And Neighbourhoods
• The Ultimate One Day in Rome Itinerary: How To Maximize Your Visit
• 21 Best Monuments in Rome To See In Your Lifetime
• 23 of the Best Things to do in Rome, Italy

14. Prague, Czech Republic

Prague is a city that will hook you with its history and architecture. We first visited back in 2011 and loved everything about it. From Gothic to Baroque, the buildings are a mix of all types of architecture. We enjoyed walking the narrow cobblestone streets, enjoying classical concerts, and soaking up the nightlife. The squares and cafes are buzzing, and Prague is a must-see for a cultural summer.

Also Prague has many historical landmarks to prove its rich past. The Prague Castle, one of the biggest ancient castles in the world, has stunning views of the city and a deep dive into Czech Republic’s history. The Charles Bridge with baroque statues is perfect for a walk, especially at sunrise or sunset when the views are magic.

Don’t miss the Astronomical Clock in the Old Town Square, a medieval masterpiece that puts on a show every hour. For art lovers, the city has plenty of museums and galleries, including the National Gallery and the Museum of Decorative Arts, to name a few, with a wide range of art from different periods.

Plan Your Trip To Prague With Our Guides:

• Is Prague Expensive? (Tips For Visiting This Year)
• 20 of The Best Things to Do in Prague, Czechia
• Prague Tourist Traps – Don’t Spend Your Money on Them

Best Coastal Escapes

If beach lounging and charming coastal towns are your ideal summer holiday destination, then these coastal getaways are for you.

Europe has some of the best summer destinations, with beaches and landscapes that are pure bliss.

15. French Riviera, France

The French Riviera , also known as Côte d’Azur, is glamorous and luxurious. This beautiful coastal region has sun drenched beaches, nightlife and boutiques. In Nice you can walk along the Promenade des Anglais, relax on the beaches and bike ride with the Mediterranean Sea as your backdrop. The French Riviera has a vibrant cultural scene and al fresco dining opportunities making it a top destination for summer vacations.

Nearby are charming medieval villages like Gourdon and Sainte Agnes, which have views and history. Gourdon is known as the Eagle’s Nest and has breathtaking views over the valley. The French Riviera has natural beauty and luxury, so it’s the perfect summer holiday destination.

16. Cinque Terre, Italy

Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are five colorful villages that we fell head over heels in love with. Imagine pastel-coloured buildings tumbling down hills and views of the sea that make you pinch yourself. We spent our days wandering through the narrow cobbled streets, lounging on the beautiful beaches and soaking up the Mediterranean magic in each village.

Each of the five villages—Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore—has its own special charm and attractions. Monterosso al Mare has big sandy beaches and lemon trees, so it’s perfect for sunbathing and chilling out. Vernazza has a tiny harbor and colorful houses and is often considered one of the most beautiful villages in Italy. Corniglia is perched on top of a hill and has the most stunning views of the Ligurian Sea. It is the only village without direct access to the sea, so it adds a bit of an extra challenge to your exploration.

You’ll never want to go home.

Plan Your Trip To Cinque Terre With Our Guides:

• Where to stay in Cinque Terre, Italy: The Best Towns And Villages
• Hiking in Cinque Terre – Complete Guide to Italy’s 5 Villages
• How Much Does A Trip to Italy Cost: Detailed Budget Breakdown

17. Balearic Islands, Spain

Majorca, Ibiza and Menorca are three of our top choices for the summer holidays. Majorca is a dream with its clear blue waters, white sandy coves and stunning natural spots like Sierra de Tramontana. The island has a lively nightlife, great food and beautiful beaches so it’s the perfect destination in the summer season.

One of my favorite things to do is island hopping in the Balearics. Each island has its own vibe. Whether you’re partying in Ibiza, chilling on Menorca’s beaches, or soaking up Majorca’s natural beauty, you can see why these made the list.

Majorca is the biggest island and a heaven for nature lovers and adventure seekers like us. You can hike the rugged trails of Sierra de Tramontana, visit the historic Bellver Castle, or explore the famous Caves of Drach. And there’s so many water sports to try out, from snorkelling in clear blue waters to sailing along the coast. You won’t leave these islands without having the time of your life.

Sustainable Travel in Europe

Sustainable travel means being aware and having a positive impact on the environment and local communities. Europe has many opportunities to practice sustainable travel, from choosing eco-friendly accommodation to using sustainable transport and supporting local businesses.

Here are some tips to make your European trip more sustainable.

Eco Accommodation

Look for eco accommodations that use renewable energy and reduce waste. Many hotels are now turning off lights and air con when not in use. Staying at these places makes your trip more sustainable and supports businesses that care for the planet.

Choosing eco accommodation means your holiday has a positive impact on the environment. These places often have a great vibe and delicious food, so you can enjoy and be sustainable.

Sustainable Transport

Reduce your carbon footprint while traveling by using sustainable transport. Many European cities have great public transport systems, including buses, trams, and trains. Public transport reduces carbon emissions and lets you experience the city like a local.

Cycling is becoming more popular in European cities and is another sustainable transport option. Many cities have bike rental services and bike paths, so you can explore the city on two wheels.

Walking tours are a way to discover a city’s history and culture while having a low-impact travel experience.

Support Local Communities

Supporting local communities during your travels is key to their cultural and economic well being. Choose local accommodation, eat at local restaurants and participate in community events so your travel dollars go to the local economy. Make conscious choices to preserve the character and culture of the places you visit.

The Last Word

Summer in Europe means endless experiences, from sunbathing on beautiful beaches to strolling through historic streets to adventure-filled outdoor activities. Whether you choose a top destination, a secret gem, or an adventure paradise, each place will have its own memories and landscapes. Travel sustainably, support local communities, and reduce your impact. Pack your bags and get ready to discover the best of Europe’s summer destinations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some top destinations for a summer vacation in europe.

If you’re looking for a summer getaway in Europe, check out Dubrovnik, the Algarve, the Amalfi Coast, the Greek Islands, and Barcelona. Each spot has beautiful beaches, amazing culture, and something special to offer!

What are some hidden gems in Europe for a summer getaway?

Check out the Bay of Kotor in Montenegro, Ljubljana in Slovenia, and the stunning Lofoten Islands in Norway for a chill summer getaway. These spots are perfect for beautiful views and a break from the crowds!

Which European destinations are ideal for adventure seekers?

For adventure seekers, Interlaken in Switzerland, Iceland, and Lake Bled in Slovenia are top picks, offering amazing opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and paragliding. Let’s get your adrenaline flowing!

What are some coastal escapes in Europe for a relaxing summer vacation?

For a chill summer vibe, check out the French Riviera, Cinque Terre, or the Balearic Islands; they’ve got gorgeous beaches and charming towns to relax in.

How can I travel sustainably in Europe?

Traveling sustainably in Europe is easy! Just opt for eco-friendly accommodations, rely on public transport or bikes, and spend your money at locally-owned businesses.

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

You May Also Like

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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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Traveling with kids to Europe? Why including a cruise might be better than just staying on land

You may associate the word "cruising" with short jaunts to the Bahamas or Mexico. On those cruises, a lot of the experience is about the onboard fun, and some passengers never even leave the boat.

But if those typical short cruises out of Florida aren't necessarily your kind of thing and you are planning a trip with kids, there's a very different type of experience available in Europe that is worth considering.

I've been traveling to Europe with kids from when they were crawling to now, with one on the cusp of high school. On those trips, we've stayed in traditional hotels, apartments and even in a dome above the Arctic Circle . While all of the trips were magical in their own ways, our most recent almost-two-week European trip included five nights on a cruise, and this may now be my favorite way to experience Europe with kids.

Here's why cruising to Europe with kids during your European vacation might be an even better trip than staying in hotels on dry land.

Related: Best European cruises: Ships that stand out across the pond

Occupancy limits

First and perhaps most importantly, booking traditional hotels might frustrate you quite quickly when you're in Europe with a family.

Most of the time, you'll find that standard hotel rooms have an occupancy limit of two people per room — three if you're really lucky. Outside of some airport hotels and pricier family-specific rooms, you'll almost never be able to sleep four to a room in Europe due to occupancy limits.

So, for example, if you have a family of four, you'll often have to book two rooms — and whether you're paying with cash or points, that adds up quickly. (You can inquire about family plan rooms where the second room is at a discount, but even that can be hit and miss.)

If you choose the apartment or home rental route, there are other issues to consider, such as evolving laws and sentiments related to using vacation rental companies such as Airbnb, which residents often feel contribute to local housing crises.

However, if you opt instead to sleep aboard a cruise ship in Europe, you can easily find rooms built for four or even five. For example, we recently sailed in Europe on Disney Dream and it has standard cabins bookable for up to five people.

Related: Beware occupancy limits: How to save money when booking hotels for a family trip to Europe and beyond

Familiar foods when you want them

While eating and experiencing different kinds of cuisine is a big, fun part of exploring Europe for adults, that may not be the case for children. Not every kid is ready to scour a new menu, in potentially another language, for each and every meal.

When we travel, it can be tough to keep one of my kids fed since she struggles with eating unfamiliar food (though not for lack of trying). So, a cruise is a great option for our family. We can go ashore for a local lunch and then return to the ship at night for some easy comfort food.

For example, a few culinary highlights (for me) on our trip included lunch on a Tuscan farm featuring cheese, truffle honey and oil-dipped bread, and a paella in Barcelona.

As excited as I was about those dishes, my 8-year-old was equally thrilled to see some familiar favorites back on board. In other words, it was a win for all involved.

Related: The best European destinations for families

See a lot without working hard for it

Traveling through Europe with kids is amazing, but it's also work. There's packing up, dealing with checking in and out, making sure you didn't forget that charger or stuffed animal, hauling everyone's bags to the train station or airport, unpacking, restocking the fridge, and on and on — all of that can get old quickly.

Conversely, if you are cruising Europe with kids (at least for a portion of your trip), there will be no packing or unpacking to deal with during that part of your journey. Simply drift away to sleep at night after sailing out of, say, Barcelona and wake up in Livorno, Italy, just a short drive from Pisa, while leaving the "work" of getting there to the ship. You get somewhere new to explore virtually every day without worrying about the logistics of getting there.

Not only do you have the option of some of the larger ships on lines such as Royal Caribbean and Disney available in Europe, but there are even some river cruises that are family-friendly, such as the Adventures by Disney river cruises, which opens up all kinds of additional ports and destinations.

By sailing from port to port, you can get a taste of an area without committing to multiple days there. The worst-case scenario with less time in each destination means that you may fall in love with a place and want more time. But then, you can always plan another trip there in the future.

All that said, it is worth noting that when you cruise in the Mediterranean, some of the frequently used ports are quite a distance from the major cities you'll likely want to experience. For example, the port used to visit Rome, Civitavecchia, is about an 80-minute bus ride from the Eternal City itself. The considerable distance between the port and Rome can lead to early mornings, long days and tired kids. In our case, we used our time on the bus to take some power naps and keep everyone happy.

Something for everyone

In my opinion, if you're going to Europe, you should do things that you can only do in Europe. That might mean walking through the Roman Forum, seeing the Leaning Tower of Pisa or dancing under the Eiffel Tower in Paris. And often, if you are traveling as a family, you will be doing those things as a family.

However, there may be times when some family members don't want to do things at the same time as everyone else for days on end.

Maybe you want to enjoy some jazzy piano tunes and a quiet drink at a bar while your tween wants to play basketball with their friends and your partner wants to go for a swim. After returning from a day out and about onshore, everyone can return to the ship in the evening to do exactly what they want to do when they want to.

A little time (slightly) apart can be a fantastic way to reset so you're ready to enjoy more experiences together the next day.

Related: How Disney makes cruising Europe easy for families

Cool off easily

A lot of Europe is quite warm in the summer — hot, actually. When we visited Rome in mid-July, temperatures clocked in at 100 degrees, and it felt even hotter than that.

In much of Europe, widespread air conditioning and swimming pools are few and far between, so it can be tough to cool off between adventures. However, if you stay on a large cruise ship, you will have access to not only some pretty great air conditioning (which means a whole lot, especially in southern Europe) but also pools, waterslides and plenty of ways to cool off.

Readily available 'easy button'

Just before boarding our most recent cruise, the kids needed something familiar for dinner on our fourth night in Barcelona. So, since I had spotted a global pizza chain across the road from our hotel that night, I fired up Google Translate, went online and ordered some pizza. It wasn't fancy, but I hoped it would be easy and affordable.

When I walked across the street to pick the order up, there was no pizza. There was no record of the order despite my email confirmation number. My Spanish and their English weren't meeting in the middle enough for anyone to understand the problem — or solve it. Magically, after an hour or so of confusion and two trips into the store, my order eventually appeared, but it's a good example of how sometimes the "easy button" can be hard to find abroad when you're doing it yourself.

On the ship, when we wanted a pizza after a long day exploring Rome, we simply walked up to the top deck and got it.

While each ship is different, some other amenities of a large ship that may make your life easier include a way to do laundry, really good air conditioning waiting for you, onboard medical assistance if someone in the group is unwell, and easily accessible staff members that speak your language in case you have questions or are in need of recommendations.

You may not need those conveniences, but knowing they are there can take away some of those stresses you may have in the back of your mind.

Related: I just flew these 2 kid-friendly international airlines — here's what US airlines could learn from them

Combine time at sea with time on land

Of course, if you do head to Europe for a family cruise, then you might as well go a little deeper and at least explore the city you're departing from. If you have time, you can even tack on more time in the city that your cruise will end in, too. That means you can get the best of all worlds: You can enjoy all the conveniences and made-for-kids entertainment available on the ship and have time to really explore Europe on your own, too.

For us, that meant spending more time in Barcelona at the beginning of our cruise. We had plenty of time to walk the Gothic streets; shop; feast on Iberian ham, paella and gelato; enjoy an evening stroll in Park Guell; and, of course, visit the Sagrada Familia, among other things.

After the cruise disembarked in Barcelona, we took a train to Paris and spent several nights exploring there, too.

In both of those locations, we were often shelling out for multiple rooms each night, grateful for the easy days in the middle of the trip that we'd spent on the ship and — every now and then — really missing the familiar food waiting on the ship and the fun (and friends) readily available in the kids and teens clubs.

Pro tip: Some European cruises start in one port and end in another, which is an even easier way to make the most of your time in two different cities.

Bottom line

If you're nervous about navigating Europe with kids , first know that it is absolutely doable. But having tried multiple methods, I would highly recommend considering a cruise as an easy introduction to Europe.

You can visit various cities, see impressive sights and do it all with the familiar home base of your cruise ship waiting for you each night. Or, do what we did and combine some days on your own, exploring by land, and some days aboard a cruise with a captain at the wheel. That way, you can see more places than you otherwise would, and everyone can take a bit of a break and wake up in a new port to have as busy or lazy of a day as their heart desires.

As for my family, I now have my eye on a Northern Europe cruise, where we could perhaps experience places like Ireland, Norway, Iceland or even Greenland — it's an experience that would be tough to replicate solely traveling by land and air.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• 8 cabin locations on cruise ships you should definitely avoid
• Cruise packing list: The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• Which cruise brand is best for you? A guide to the most popular lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways that cruising newbies waste money on their first cruise
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

The 20 biggest cities in Europe by population - five are in one country

Europe is home to many large dynamic cities boasting populations of more than one million people.

However few are what might be deemed as megacities like New York , which has around 22 million inhabitants.

This is partly due to some European countries being relatively small and others having multiple major cities rather than one large capital city.

However, of the top 20 cities in Europe by population, five of them are in fact in the same country: Russia.

The largest city on the continent is Moscow , which has a population of more than ten million people.

However, the Russian capital is very much an outlier, with statistics showing that populations of between one and three million are more typical for many major European cities.

Also on the list are popular western European tourist hotspots like London, Madrid, Rome, Paris and Berlin.

Below the Express lists the twenty largest European cities and five of them are located in Russia.

1. Moscow, Russia (10,381,2220)

2. London, UK (7,556,900)

3. Saint Petersburg, Russia (5,028,000);

4. Berlin, Germany (3,426,354)

5. Madrid, Spain (3,255,944)

6. Kyiv, Ukraine (2,797,553).

7. Rome, Italy (2,318,895)

8. Paris, France (2,138,551)

9. Bucharest, Romania (1,877,155)

10. Minsk, Belarus (1,742,124)

11. Budapest, Hungary (1,741,041);

12. Hamburg, Germany (1,739,117).

13. Warsaw, Poland (1,702,139)

14. Vienna, Austria (1,691,468)

15. Barcelona, Spain (1,621,537)

16. Stockholm, Sweden (1,515,017)

17. Kharkiv, Ukraine (1,430,885).

18. Novosibirsk, Russia (1,419,007)

19. Yekaterinburg, Russia (1,349,772)

20. Nizhniy Novgorod, Russia (1,284,164)

Many will have never have heard of most of the Russian cities on the list, other than Moscow and St Petersburg, but most of them are of huge historic significance.

Yekaterinburg is located in the Urals and was the birth place of former Russian President Boris Yeltsin .

Today the city is home to the Yeltsin Presidential Centre, which includes a museum, exhibition and discussion centre, as well as a branch of the Boris Yeltsin's Presidential library.

But perhaps the city is most famous for being the place where the Romanov family of Nicholas II were murdered by the Bolsheviks, following the Russian revolution.

In the early hours of July 17, 1918, the Romanovs-ex-tsar Nicholas II , ex-tsarina Alexandra, their five children, and their four remaining servants, including the loyal family doctor, Eugene Botkin-were awoken by their Bolshevik captors and told they must dress and gather their belongings for a swift nocturnal departure.

At the time they were staying at the Ipatiev House, the family home of a Russian merchant.

Nicholas and his family gathered in the cellar of the mansion, standing together almost as if they were posing for a family portrait.

Alexandra, who was sick, asked for a chair, and Nicholas asked for another one for his only son, 13-year-old Alexei. Two were brought down.

They waited there until, suddenly, 11 or 12 heavily armed men filed ominously into the room.

The men then gunned down the family in cold blood in what became one of the most notorious political event of the C20th.

The 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy Could Be the Most Glamorous Games Yet. Here’s How to Attend Them.

The paris olympics were so inspiring, we’re already dreaming about the next games in europe, the milano-cortina 2026 winter olympics. here’s everything to know about tickets, travel, and what to expect..

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The 2026 Winter Olympics will be the first with two host cities, Milan and Cortina, an alpine region of Italy (pictured).

Dzerkach Viktar/Shutterstock

With a first-of-its-kind opening ceremony on the Seine , scores of new world records , and internet memes that all but transformed the games into the planet’s most wholesome reality show , the Paris Olympics was one for the books.

If you missed out on the big event in 2024, you’re in luck: Your next chance to attend the Olympic Games in Europe is around the corner. Planning for the Milano-Cortina Winter 2026 Olympics has officially begun—and the upcoming games, the fourth ever to take place in Italy (following the 1956 Winter Games in Cortina d’Ampezzo, the 1960 Summer Olympics in Rome, and the 2006 Winter Olympics in Turin) and the first in Milan, is anticipated to be nothing short of glamorous.

Set against the backdrop of dramatic Italian landscapes, including the snow-draped Dolomites and historic cities such as Milan and Verona, fans can expect the 17-day event to come packed not only with incredible athletic talent but experiences tailored to both the sports- and travel-obsessed crowds, including exciting side trip options, upscale dining, box seats, lounges, and five-star hotels.

Ready to hit the slopes (or soak in the luxe après-ski atmosphere ) alongside the world’s most passionate fans, athletes, and travelers? Here’s how to plan a trip to the Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics.

When are the Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games?

The Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics is scheduled for February 6 to 22, 2026. The 2026 Winter Paralympics will be held from March 6 to 15, 2026.

The 2026 Winter Olympics will mark the first time that Italy’s fashion capital, Milan, will host the international sporting event.

Photo by Ouael Ben Salah/Unsplash

Where will the Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games take place?

The 2026 Winter Olympics will be the first-ever games with two host cities : Milan and Cortina.

The opening ceremony will take place on February 6, 2026, in Milan at San Siro, the largest stadium in Italy. Events will be spread across two regions (Lombardi and Veneto) and several cities in northern Italy, including Milan, Cortina d’Ampezzo (also known as Cortina) in the Dolomites, and Valtellina in the Alps. For the first time since 1984, the closing ceremony will be set in a separate venue: the Arena di Verona in the 2,000-year-old city of Verona, best known as the setting for Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet .

What events will take place at the Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games?

More than 3,500 athletes from 93 countries will compete across 22 events during the 2026 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Crowd favorites include figure skating, ice hockey, snowboarding, ski jumping, bobsledding, cross-country skiing, and luging; ski mountaineering is also set to make its Olympic debut.

How to book Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games tickets

Eager to secure your spot? You can already sign up for the official 2026 Winter Olympics ticket draw from now until January 2025, which will assign time slots for purchasing tickets. Fans will be notified of their purchase window as early as January 2025, with sales opening in February. You can sign up for the draw and purchase tickets online .

For those who miss the initial ticket draw, general access tickets for both the 2026 Olympic and Paralympic Games will go on sale in April 2025.

Want to attend Olympic events for free? Volunteer applications for the 2026 Winter Olympics open in September 2024. Here’s how to apply .

While in Italy for the Winter Olympics, why not round out your stay with some skiing and sightseeing in the Dolomites?

pixelshop/Shutterstock

How to book Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games travel packages

On Location —the same group tasked with organizing the 2024 Paris Olympics, Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans, and the 2026 FIFA World Cup—will helm hospitality for the 2026 Winter Games. Its Olympics packages can be tailored to guests’ ideal length of stay and ideal sporting events on a first-come, first-served basis. Visitors can also tack on additional travel experiences; for instance, you can add excursions to explore Milan’s fashion history, ride along the Venetian canals, or ski at world-class resorts in the Dolomites.

2026 Winter Olympic package tiers include:

• Livigno : Includes single-day tickets for two sporting events in Livigno, with an overnight stay.
• Milan : Features a three-night stay in Milan and tickets to three sporting events.
• Cortina : Features a three-night stay in Cortina and tickets to three sporting events.

On Location will also offer a package for those interested in combining the Olympics with tourist excursions. For instance, guests can book three-night mountain stays with access to sporting events, followed by two-night city breaks focused on nonsporting events like dinners and tours in Venice and Milan. Until September 30, 2024, guests can put down a refundable 200-euro presale deposit for priority access to On Location’s packages before they become available to the general public on November 16, 2024—giving fans a better shot at securing entry to crowd-favorite events and popular hotels.

Added experiences and hotels for the Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games

On Location packages can be customized to include event tickets, hospitality lounges, special events, private viewing boxes, gourmet dining, and transportation between the games’ widespread destinations across northern Italy. Visitors can book stays at some of northern Italy’s most exciting hotels and resorts, from fashion district staples like the Ferragamo-owned Portrait Milano to La Fiorida , a farm stay high in the Alps, and the Dolomites’ Rifugio Scoiattoli mountain lodge , home to scenic views of Cinque Torri and one of the highest hot tubs in the world.

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I Spent 7 Weeks in Europe With Just a Carry-on, and These Are the 10 Dresses I Wore on Repeat — From $36

It’s not too late to book that dream Europe vacation...

Travel + Leisure / Tyler Roeland

One of my life’s biggest regrets is not studying abroad in college and not reaching for that elusive chance for total immersion into another culture during a semester away. Though I’ve been able to make up for it post-graduation with nearly 20 trips to Europe, from family jaunts to Italy and conferences in Riga, Latvia to posh London stays with Hilton , it has still felt like there was always a little something missing. Enter: my self-coined “adult study abroad summer,” when I connected a string of work trips with some personal exploration for a full seven weeks away from home. 

This seven-nation European swing began with a memorable mother-daughter Adriatic cruise with Viking, then a group trip to the Republic of Georgia, a self-guided Balkan adventure through Albania, Corfu, and North Macedonia, and finally a luxurious sail around the Greek Isles with Windstar. As the captain of Team Carry-on-only , it was a delicate dance to properly pack for the weather , plus a mix of casual and more formal events and destinations. Luckily, I was able to curate the perfect wardrobe with a slew of versatile travel dresses for every possible occasion. Sightseeing at a museum? Check. Michelin-star dinner out? Covered. Walking day exploring a new city? Done. Below, are the 10 dresses I suggest packing for the ultimate European summer vacation. 

A Linen Shirtdress

Is there a fabric more iconic, cooling, and chic than linen in the summer? I think not. I wore my lovely linen-blend Alex Mill shirtdress everywhere from a Greek olive oil tasting in Monemvasia via Windstar to a casual lakeside dinner of Ohrid trout in North Macedonia, but you can achieve the same look with this version from J.Crew; it's on mega sale and available in plenty of colors in case you’re not sold on white (pasta stains, oh me oh my). Pro tip: Consider adding a linen blazer to the mix, too. It'll be an elegant, lightweight jacket option that's easy to pack (and mix and match). 

An Elevated Athletic Dress

Americans love athleisure, a trend that’s been slower to catch on across the pond. While I wouldn't recommend sporting that leggings set out and about, I do suggest packing an athletic dress — especially one tailored enough that it could be mistaken for a normal dress — to get away with being comfy and stylish on your Euro getaway. I utilized a similar style to this Amazon-loved one for a day spent exploring beaches in Corfu, off the coast of Albania, part of the Ionian Islands of Greece. With an oversized button-down shirt , I could go straight from the sunny shores to a moonlit dinner in town without having to stop back at the Airbnb. 

A Matching Skirt Set

Though not technically a dress, a matching skirt set does so much for a travel wardrobe that it is worth the space in your carry-on. I have my eye on this vibrant red Farm Rio set , which would be perfect against the stark white homes in Ohrid; the pop of color would also make for compelling photos against the stunning cerulean backdrop of Lake Ohrid, one of the world’s oldest lakes. However, many shoppers have given the Zesica Matching Skirt Set from Amazon their stamp of approval. 

Whichever you choose, know that you're signing up for multiple mix-and-match options. You can wear the top with high-waisted white jeans , or try the skirt with a sleek black tank . Trust me on this one, I saw so many coordinating sets on the streets of Europe, from the golden capital of Malta to the balmy Dalmatian Coast, and this is one item I truly wished I would have packed for my summer away. 

A 'Nap' Dress

Hill House Home

A COVID-era trend turned wardrobe staple, the nap dress is meant to be so comfortable you can actually nap in it. I’m a longtime fan of Hill House Home, and I own more than 20 of these pretty dresses in whimsical prints. For travel purposes, I prefer to pack a more classic nap dress, like the navy Ellie style , which matches more and is less memorable than a fussier or more elaborate print. Bonus: it’s truly wrinkle-resistant, so you can avoid the iron and toss it on before exploring old town Kotor.

Alternatively, Amazon has similar nap dress-inspired silhouettes at lower price points; check out the Zesica Plaid Square Neck Puff Sleeve Midi Dress and the Chouyatou Smocked Flounce Dress starting at $29. 

A Ballet-style Midi Dress

No bow, no go — Balletcore is very much in . I mean, did it ever really leave? To incorporate the trend into your travel wardrobe, I'd pick up this gorgeous fit-and-flare dress from Quince; it strikes the perfect balance between flowy and structured so you can feel comfy and look put-together. I wore a similar dress nonstop during my Georgia trip, going from mountains to vineyards to the bustling capital city and back again. In terms of accessorizing this classic silhouette, snag one of these uber-popular Marzoline beauties that are handmade in Milan. 

A Peachy Pick 

Embrace Peach Fuzz, the Pantone Color of the Year , with a warm, pastel-hued dress like this one from Charles Henry. It's breezy enough to beat the heat, but modest enough to mimic cap sleeves when visiting cathedrals or religious sites. Plus, the midi length keeps it modern and approachable, while the cotton poplin fabric means only natural fibers touch your skin. Though this shade isn’t my usual cup of tea, I spotted it on plenty of other European travelers and locals alike.

A Blue and White Dress

Abercrombie & Fitch

While peach may dominate the color wheel for the moment, a classic combination for any Euro getaway is blue and white. You might associate the color palette with Santorini for its famous white buildings and contrasting blue domes, but the duo really works anywhere in Europe. Take this chic Abercrombie pick for example. It's made with 100 percent cotton, features a cute tie, and is a comfy maxi dress length. It’s practically begging for some island time. See you soon, Cyclades. 

A Fun Cut-out Dress

A pretty dress that showcases just a peek of skin is ever-so playful and flirty, but there are elegant ways to nail the look. Amazon shoppers love this billowy maxi dress, which has two modest side cut-outs, adding unique contrast to the classic square-neck, short-sleeve silhouette. You can also play with cut-outs more elegantly with a gown like this metallic floral maxi , which would make a great destination wedding guest dress. Now if only my family would decide to throw weddings abroad rather than in our Midwestern hometown…

A White Tennis Dress

There's no denying Tenniscore's presence in 2024's list of summer trends . And, as luck would have it, the look makes for an effortlessly stylish travel outfit. A classic white tennis dress pick like this Amazon-loved one is an easy layering piece that is equal parts comfy and elevated with its corset details and exaggerated pleats for easy movement when walking the winding streets of Rome. Afraid of spilling gelato on the pristine shade? Opt for it in one of its other eight available colors. Bonus: this dress is currently on sale, too!

A Jumpsuit 

Okay, hear me out. I know this isn’t technically a dress, but a cute jumpsuit can function the same way: throw it on, stay comfortable, and make the most of your Euro trip. Spanx makes the bottom half of my go-to travel outfit ( hello, Booty Boost leggings ), but I have seen the Oprah-loved brand 's jumpsuit around more than any other item this year. It’s made in regular, petite, and tall sizes, crafted from the softest material, and comes in four neutral colorways. Pair this jumpsuit with a cozy sweatshirt, like Oprah's favorite AirEssentials Half-zip , for the ultimate monochromatic travel set. 

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Why Are Airlines Introducing Unlimited ‘All You Can Fly’ Deals?

Wizz air is launching an unlimited flight subscription for travel within europe—but there's a catch..

Wizz Air , a Hungarian-based budget airline, hopes to attract more customers with a new “All You Can Fly” deal for travelers interested in taking unlimited flights across Europe. The subscription is currently available at a discounted annual fee of 499 euros ($547) that will rise to 599 euros ($657) on Aug. 16. If the deal sounds too good to be true, that’s because there are some hidden caveats. Subscribers must book flights up to three days before departure and will have to pay an additional flat fee of 10 euros ($11) per booking. The deal also only covers one personal item, meaning customers will have to shell out for carry-on or checked baggage.

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The airline’s “All You Can Fly” deal, which will allow a total of 10,000 members to catch flights across European cities like Paris, Madrid and Vienna, shares parallels with a similar deal launched by Frontier Airlines last year for North American consumers. Members of Frontier’s GoWild! subscription also need to pay extra for luggage and additional add-ons like snacks, drinks and reserved seats and must reserve international flights 10 days in advance.

Wizz Air is hoping the initiative will entice new clients amid financial and reputational struggles. The company earlier this month reported 45 million euros ($49 million) in operating profits from April to June, a 44 percent drop year over year that was largely influenced by grounding of nearly one-fifth of the airline’s fleet due to engine inspections. And in February, the consumer group Which? found the carrier ranked the worst short-haul airline by U.K. passengers.

How are airlines faring amid inflation?

Airfare overall has managed to avoid any sharp increases despite inflationary pressures. While core inflation in July was up 3.2 percent from last year, airline fares in the U.S. were down by 2.8 percent, according to data from the Bureau of Transportation Statistics . Airline fares decreased by 1.6 percent month over month, making July the fifth month in a row it has dropped.

This decline can be partially attributed to a decline in jet fuel prices, Stephen Brown , the deputy chief North America economist at Capital Economics, told CNBC . Average aviation jet fuel prices for August are down by 17 percent year over year, according to data from the International Air Transport Association.

Those interested in saving even more money on air travel through Wizz’s new deal should take advantage while they can, as unlimited flight subscriptions have been historically short experiments for airlines. In 2009, JetBlue debuted an unlimited $599 “All You Can Jet” offer that proved too popular, with the airline running out of supply and suspending sales of the pass mere hours after releasing it.

American Airlines (AAL) , too, rolled out unlimited lifetime tickets in the 1990s that were acquired by a few dozen travelers for $250,000 each, with the option to pay another $150,000 to add a companion feature. In the late 2000s, the airline terminated the program after realizing how much the lucky ticketholders, some of whom accumulated more than 30 million miles, were costing them in lost revenue.

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