Complete guide to plan a month-long Europe trip

A month-long Europe trip is a dream for many. You’ve probably spent hours daydreaming about strolling along the Seine, conquering the Colosseum, or maybe losing yourself in the whimsical streets of Amsterdam. But between the endless itinerary possibilities and the pressure to “make the most of it”, that initial excitement can quickly turn into overwhelm.

Planning a month in Europe isn’t like booking a weekend getaway; it's about digging deeper, ditching the tourist traps sometimes, and experiencing the real magic of Europe. This is why I've put together a guide to planning an incredible trip, based on my experience of traveling extensively in the Old Continent.

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• How to travel Europe on a backpacker's budget
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• How to plan a trip to Europe: the ultimate guide

Suggested itineraries for a month-long Europe trip

First things first: before you book a single flight, you've got to figure out what kind of trip you’re after. Europe is a continent full of diverse cultures and landscapes. Instead of simply following what’s trendy on social media, consider your tastes and preferences and decide what kind of experience you crave.

Do you want to relax on sunny beaches, wander through historic cities, or hike scenic mountains? Do you dream of visiting iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower or exploring hidden gems? Prioritize destinations that excite you and check out resources like our Europe travel guides to help you decide where to go.

While everyone's perfect itinerary differs, we're going to make some suggestions just to provide a starting point for inspiration. Tailor them to your taste. However, remember that trying to squeeze every European highlight into one month is a surefire recipe for travel burnout.

Itinerary 1: Classics and cityscapes

This fast-paced itinerary packs in some of Europe's most iconic destinations, leaving a few days for commuting:

Paris (5 days): Start your adventure in romantic Paris. Stroll along the Champs-Élysées, ascend the Eiffel Tower, and indulge in delectable pastries. Take a day trip to Palace of Versailles and wander through the gardens. Enjoy the city and grab some street food as you admire the architecture.

Amsterdam (4 days): Catch a train to charming Amsterdam, where you can begin with a canal tour to take in the city’s architecture from the water, then visit the Rijksmuseum or the Van Gogh Museum for a deep dive into Dutch art. A stop at the Anne Frank House offers a sobering look at WWII history, while a walk through the Jordaan district reveals boutique shops, cafes, and galleries. Be sure to explore the city by bike, as the locals do, and visit the Vondelpark for a relaxing afternoon outdoors.

Berlin (5 days): The rich history and vibrant culture make Berlin a must-visit city. Start at the Brandenburg Gate and take a stroll along the historic Unter den Linden boulevard, visiting iconic landmarks like the Berlin Wall Memorial and Checkpoint Charlie. Don’t miss the moving Holocaust Memorial and the artistic expression found at the East Side Gallery, where the Berlin Wall is covered in murals. For museum lovers, Museum Island offers world-class collections, while the nightlife in Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain neighborhoods will show you the more eclectic side of the city.

Prague (4 days): The magical medieval atmosphere makes the capital of the Czech Republic one of Europe’s most enchanting cities. Start at the Old Town Square, where you can admire the stunning Astronomical Clock and Gothic architecture. Walk across the iconic Charles Bridge with its statues lining the path, leading you to Prague Castle, where you’ll find the magnificent St. Vitus Cathedral. Explore the charming lanes of Mala Strana and the historical Jewish Quarter, and finish your day with a local beer at one of Prague’s many cozy taverns.

Vienna (3 days): Here, imperial elegance meets a rich cultural scene. Begin with the majestic Schönbrunn Palace and its beautiful gardens, then head to the Hofburg Palace, home of the Habsburg dynasty. Music lovers will enjoy a performance at the Vienna State Opera or a visit to Mozarthaus. Stroll down Kärntner Strasse for shopping, and stop by the St. Stephen’s Cathedral for a panoramic view of the city. Don’t forget to indulge in a slice of the famous Sacher Torte at a classic Viennese café.

Venice (3 days): Start with Piazza San Marco, where you can visit St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace. Take a leisurely gondola ride through the canals, particularly under the Rialto Bridge, or simply wander the narrow streets and discover hidden gems. Visit the island of Murano to see glass-blowing artisans, and for a peaceful escape, head to Burano with its colorful houses. Finish the day with a sunset over the Grand Canal.

Rome (4 days): Begin at the Colosseum for a glimpse into ancient gladiator battles, then walk to the Roman Forum, the heart of ancient Rome. Don’t miss the Pantheon with its impressive dome and throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain to ensure your return to the city. Visit the Vatican to marvel at St. Peter’s Basilica and Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel and explore the bustling streets of Trastevere for authentic Roman cuisine. For more information, read our article on what to do in Rome.

Itinerary 2: Sun-kissed adventures

If picturesque coastlines, sun-drenched beaches, and vibrant culture appeal to you, this itinerary is your ideal match:

Barcelona (6 days): Start your Spanish escapade in Barcelona, where stunning architecture and a relaxed vibe await. Visit the Sagrada Família, Park Güell, and the Gothic Quarter. Consider buying a Barcelona Card.

Nice, French Riviera (5 days): From lively markets to turquoise waters, Nice offers a taste of the French Riviera's charm. Stroll along the Promenade des Anglais and soak up the Mediterranean atmosphere.

Florence (4 days): See the famous Ponte Vecchio, climb to the top of Duomo, visit the Uffizi Gallery, and enjoy a cooking class.

Rome (5 days): Experience ancient history colliding with modern life. Gladiator enthusiasts can opt for guided tours of the Colosseum. Foodies can savor authentic pasta dishes.

Amalfi Coast (4 days): Spend your days exploring each town, or relax on the beach. Spend some time in Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello.

Athens (4 days): Visit the Acropolis, Parthenon, Temple of Olympian Zeus, and the Ancient Agora of Athens to get a taste of Greece.

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Cultural experiences for your European trip

Embarking on a month-long trip across Europe is an incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in the continent’s diverse cultures, history, and traditions. From attending live performances to enjoying local cuisine, every country offers unique experiences that allow travelers to connect deeply with its heritage: 

Below are somecultural experiences that will enrich your journey and provide unforgettable memories.

1. Flamenco Show (Spain): Attend a live flamenco performance in Seville or Madrid, where passionate dance, music, and singing represent Spain's deep-rooted cultural traditions.

2. Christmas Markets (Germany): If visiting in winter, explore charming Christmas markets in cities like Berlin or Munich, with festive lights, traditional crafts, and seasonal treats.

3. Alhambra Palace Tour (Granada, Spain): Visit the stunning Alhambra Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing intricate Islamic architecture and breathtaking views over the city of Granada.

4. Traditional Hammam (Turkey): Experience a traditional Turkish bath in Istanbul, where ancient rituals of relaxation and cleansing combine in a steam-filled bathhouse.

5. Cooking Class (Italy): Take a hands-on cooking class in Tuscany or Rome, learning to make fresh pasta, pizza, or gelato using authentic Italian methods.

6. Celtic Music Night (Ireland): Enjoy live traditional Celtic music in a cozy Irish pub, where local musicians play folk tunes with fiddles, pipes, and drums.

7. Opera in Vienna (Austria): Attend a performance at the Vienna State Opera to witness the grandeur of one of Europe’s most famous opera houses.

8. Wine Tasting (France): Visit a vineyard in Bordeaux or Burgundy for a guided wine tasting experience, where you can learn about French viticulture and savor local varieties.

9. Fado Music (Portugal): Listen to traditional Fado music in Lisbon, a genre characterized by soulful singing and themes of love, loss, and longing.

10. Free Walking Tour (Various Cities): Join a free walking tour in cities like Prague, Budapest, or Amsterdam for an introduction to the history, legends, and architecture of each place from a local guide.

Food and drink to try in Europe

Exploring Europe is also a culinary adventure waiting to be savored. Each country boasts its own unique dishes and beverages, making food an integral part of the travel experience. Be sure to indulge in some of these iconic dishes and drinks:

1. Paella (Spain): A traditional Spanish rice dish from Valencia, often made with seafood, chicken, or rabbit, and flavored with saffron.

2. Croissants (France): Enjoy freshly baked buttery croissants in a Parisian café for breakfast, paired with coffee or hot chocolate.

3. Schnitzel (Austria/Germany): A breaded and fried meat cutlet, usually served with potatoes or salad, popular in both Austria and Germany.

4. Belgian Waffles (Belgium): Try light and crispy Belgian waffles topped with whipped cream, chocolate, or fresh fruits in Brussels or Bruges.

5. Pizza (Italy): Taste authentic Neapolitan pizza in Naples, with a thin crust, fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, straight from a wood-fired oven.

6. Fish and Chips (UK): This classic British dish includes fried fish and crispy chips (fries), best enjoyed at a seaside pub or shop.

7. Pierogi (Poland): Polish dumplings filled with savory or sweet ingredients, such as potatoes and cheese or fruits, and often served with sour cream.

8. Souvlaki (Greece): Grilled meat skewers, typically served with pita bread, tzatziki, and salad, a staple of Greek street food.

9. Fondue (Switzerland): Melted cheese served in a communal pot, with bread or vegetables for dipping, a perfect dish for sharing in the Swiss Alps.

10. Beer (Germany/Belgium): Taste a variety of beers in both Germany and Belgium, from German pilsners and hefeweizens to Belgian Trappist beers brewed by monks.

Tailoring your dream month long Europe trip

Your ideal month-long Europe trip might be a hybrid of all these itineraries and experiences and more. Pick and choose elements to personalize it. Add in your bucket list activities, like seeing the Northern Lights. Maybe you'd like to visit during a specific time of year to experience local festivals or markets, for instance.

Although the itineraries we suggested above focus on famous landmarks, Europe is much more than crowded tourist hotspots. Dig a little deeper and you'll uncover authentic local experiences that often become the most treasured trip memories. Here are some ideas to find interesting hidden gems all over Europe:

Food tours: What better way to experience a city's soul than through its food? A guided food tour will tantalize your taste buds and introduce you to local culinary traditions.

Street art scenes: Some of Europe's coolest neighborhoods come alive through street art. Embark on a street art tour in a vibrant city like Berlin or discover hidden murals while getting lost in the backstreets of Lisbon. You can often find street food tours near these areas as well.

Parks and gardens: Even if green spaces aren't usually your thing, don’t underestimate the tranquility of Europe’s urban oases. Pack a picnic and soak in the sunshine at the Luxembourg Gardens in Paris or stroll through London’s sprawling Hyde Park.

Day trips: Some of the most enriching travel moments occur beyond a city's limits. Take a day trip to explore the charming villages of the Alsace region on a day tour from Colmar or discover the dramatic beauty of the Scottish Highlands on a day trip. There are a lot of cheaper options if you travel independently or book day trips in advance.

Work exchange programs: Worldpackers' work exchange programs are one of the best ways to discover hidden gems in Europe while immersing yourself in local cultures. 

Worldpackers connects travelers with hosts who need assistance in various areas, such as hospitality, agriculture, education, and environmental conservation. By participating in a work exchange, you can volunteer your time and skills in exchange for accommodation, meals, and the chance to forge genuine connections with locals.

This experience allows you to explore one or more destinations at a slower pace, fostering a deeper understanding of the places you visit. Whether you choose to stay in a vibrant city, a serene countryside, or a quaint village, each host presents the opportunity to learn about different lifestyles, traditions, and languages. Additionally, you'll gain invaluable skills, from practical work experience to personal growth, all while traveling affordably and making a meaningful impact.

Whether you’re helping at eco-villages or castles in rural France or in boutique hostels in Eastern Europe, Worldpackers opens doors to authentic and affordable travel experiences. This is an amazing way to spend a month in Europe—embracing new challenges, creating lasting memories, and building a network of friends across the continent.

For more information, read our guide on How Worldpackers works.

Budgeting for your month-long Europe trip

A month-long European trip doesn’t have to break the bank. Establishing a budget beforehand prevents unwanted surprises later. Consider these costs:

• Flights: These are often the priciest part. Booking in advance or opting for budget airlines can sometimes save money. Being flexible with dates can result in big savings. Flying mid-week or during the off-season often means lower fares. Websites like Google Flights or Skyscanner are your allies. These let you compare prices from different airlines quickly. Also, don’t forget to factor in baggage fees from budget airlines. This prevents those “extra cost” surprises at the airport.
• Accommodation: From hostels to boutique hotels, choose options that match your style. Booking sites like Booking.com often have deals. Consider factors like location and amenities. And if you’re in a tight budget and interested in having a more authentic experience, consider volunteering in exchange for accommodation with one of thousands of Worldpackers hosts spread around Europe.
• Activities: Many attractions require entrance fees. Consider booking some in advance, but don’t forget to look for free activities as well. Many Europeans museums have free entrance once a week.

Keep reading:

• What is the average cost of a trip to Europe?
• Tips and tricks on the cheapest way to get to Europe (and to travel around)

Getting around Europe

Europe offers several transportation options, each with its perks. Rome2Rio is a great website to check different ways to get from point A to point B. If you’re not going to countries that are far away, traveling by train or bus tends to be easier and allows you to carry more luggage and book tickets in a shorter notice.

• Trains: Efficient and scenic, trains are a comfortable way to travel. Consider a Eurail Pass if you plan to take multiple train rides or high-speed trains. Research prices and itineraries through Rail Europe.
• Budget airlines: Europe has numerous budget airlines. These are perfect for traveling between countries quickly and affordably. Consider baggage fees to avoid surprises and pay attention to the airports you’ll be flying to and from – many of these airlines fly to more distant airports and going to the city center might be costly and take some time.
• Buses: While sometimes slower, buses are a cost-effective option, especially for shorter distances and visiting small towns. There are also low-cost bus companies which offer decent service and allow you to keep your itinerary loser.
• Road trips: Renting a car lets you venture off-the-beaten-path and discover those hidden gems most travelers never see. Be mindful of toll roads in certain countries and research local driving rules before you hit the gas. It’s usually not advisable to drive a car in major European capitals, where traffic tends to be bad and parking fees are expensive.

Think about the pace you prefer. Do you value maximizing time at each destination, or do you enjoy the journey itself? Would you prefer to stay in one city center the entire time, or travel to multiple cities?

What to pack for a month-long trip to Europe

Packing light is crucial. Lugging around heavy bags for a month is nobody’s idea of a good time. This list covers the essentials:

• Clothing: Versatile basics are your friends. Pack a few tops, comfortable bottoms, and layers. A lightweight jacket is a must. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring those charming cobblestone streets.
• Toiletries: Travel-sized toiletries help comply with airline restrictions and are lightweight.
• Other essentials: A universal adapter, a reusable water bottle, and a small first-aid kit are handy items for any European trip. You'll be grateful for that water bottle, especially during hot summer days, and in most places in Europe it’s perfectly safe to drink water from the tap.

Navigating the unknown

While English will get you far in major European cities, learning a few basic phrases in the local language can go a long way, even if it’s just "Hello", "Thank You", and “Excuse me.”

Also consider the differences between cultures. Tipping etiquette, restaurant hours, even greeting someone with a kiss on the cheek – customs can change from country to country. Be a respectful traveler and embrace cultural differences; it’s all part of the experience.

FAQs about month long Europe trips

Is 1 month enough for a Europe trip?

Absolutely. A month provides ample time to explore multiple destinations without feeling rushed. You can delve into several cities or opt for a slower pace, immersing yourself in fewer places. The key is choosing what best suits your travel style.

How much money do I need to travel Europe for 1 month?

Costs depend on factors such as your choice of destinations, travel style (budget vs. luxury), and spending habits. With careful planning, it's possible to tailor your trip to different budgets. Look for cheaper options, like choosing hostels over hotels or volunteering through Worldpackers in exchange for a free stay.

Which month is best for a Europe trip?

Europe offers something special year-round. Summer (June-August) is popular, but often crowded and pricier. Spring and Autumn boast pleasant weather with fewer tourists. If winter activities like skiing are on your mind or if you love Christmas markets and snowy vibes, then December to February is perfect. Ultimately, the “best” month depends on your priorities.

Planning a month-long Europe trip is a thrilling adventure in itself – a mix of daydreaming, meticulous spreadsheets, and getting excited about uncovering hidden corners of this diverse continent. Embrace this excitement as you personalize each detail. 

And if you're eager to have an immersive cultural experience, create a free profile on Worldpackers and start saving your favorite opportunities to your wishlist.