If you’re thinking about spending your summer in Europe and have a couple of months to work with, this itinerary is for you. A two-month Europe itinerary in summer gives you enough time to slow down and really enjoy each place rather than racing from one popular spot to the next. You’ll get a mix of big cities, smaller towns, beach days, historic sites, and great food without feeling like you’re constantly on the move.

This route includes France, Portugal, Spain, Italy, and Greece, with plenty of options for day trips, coastal getaways, and scenic train rides. It’s built around smart travel days and realistic pacing, so you can actually enjoy your time rather than spending half of it in transit. Whether it’s your first time in Europe or you’ve been before, this plan gives you a flexible but detailed starting point to map out an amazing summer.

Best Time to Take a Two-Month Europe Trip

June to early September is the best time for a two-month Europe itinerary in summer.

You’ll get warm weather, long days, and the kind of energy that makes European cities feel alive. Think outdoor cafes, music festivals, rooftop bars, and coastlines buzzing with life.

But this is also peak season. Expect higher prices, bigger crowds, and long lines at places like the Eiffel Tower, Trevi Fountain, and Vatican City. Some trains and day trips sell out days in advance, especially between major cities.

Here’s how to make it work:

Visit popular places early in the morning or after dinner
Use longer travel days to visit smaller towns and coastal areas
Book your train tickets and major attractions a few weeks ahead

If you prefer fewer crowds, late May and early September are great alternatives. You’ll still get beach weather in places like Greece and southern Spain, but with more space and lower prices.

A full two months gives you enough time to plan around the rush. You’re not squeezing everything into one short trip. You can slow down, explore at your own pace, and still fit in the best views, the best places, and a lot of variety across different countries.

How Much Does a Two-Month Europe Trip Cost?

The cost of a two-month Europe itinerary depends on how you like to travel. You can do this on a budget, go mid-range with a few splurges, or plan a luxury experience. Here’s what to expect.

Budget Travelers

Rough cost: 3,500 to 5,000 dollars
You’ll stay in hostels or guesthouses, use public transport and regional trains, and eat mostly at casual spots or markets. Budget airlines and early train tickets help keep travel costs low.

Tips to save money:

Use a Eurail Pass to cover long-distance train routes
Cook a few meals using hostel kitchens
Take advantage of free walking tours and free entry days at museums
Book early for cheap flights between countries

Mid-Range Travelers

Rough cost: 6,000 to 9,000 dollars
Expect a mix of hotels and private rooms, some guided tours, high-speed train tickets, and a few nice meals out. This is a flexible and comfortable way to travel for two months.

Money-saving ideas:

Stay just outside the city center for better hotel prices
Buy week trip passes for local public transport
Use a travel card with no foreign transaction fees
Group short stays together to reduce check-in and cleaning fees

Luxury Travelers

Rough cost: 10,000 dollars or more
Think boutique hotels, first-class trains with seat reservations, direct flights between countries, and private tours. You’ll spend more but enjoy top-tier experiences in every place you visit.

Extras to budget for:

Fine dining and wine tastings
Upgrades on overnight train routes
Private day trips in popular places like the Amalfi Coast or Greek Islands

A Few Quick Tips

Travel cards are worth it in cities with strong public transport
Consider using a travel credit card to rack up points and redeem them for free hotel stays and flights (check out my Chase Sapphire Reserve versus Capital One Venture X comparison)
Flight prices go up quickly in summer, so book early
Overnight trains can save you the cost of a hotel for one night
Many attractions offer discounted tickets online

Schengen Area and Entry Requirements

Most of this two month Europe itinerary takes place in Schengen Area countries like France, Spain, Italy, Portugal, and Greece. If you are not familiar with Schengen rules, here is what you need to know.

How Long Can You Stay?

The Schengen visa rule allows visitors to stay 90 days within a 180-day period. Since this trip is 60 days long, it fits well within that limit, but it is important to keep track of your travel days if you plan to extend your trip.

Do You Need a Visa?

It depends on your home country.

United States, Canada, United Kingdom, and Australia: No visa is required for stays under 90 days, but you must have a passport valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates.
Other Countries: Check if you need a Schengen visa before booking flights. Processing times can take weeks.

New ETIAS Requirement (Starting in 2026)

Beginning in mid-2026, travelers from visa-exempt countries (like the United States and Canada) will need to apply for an ETIAS travel authorization before arriving in Europe. It is a quick online form with a small fee, but it must be approved before departure.

What About Non-Schengen Countries?

If you plan to extend your trip beyond two months, consider adding a non-Schengen destination like Croatia, the United Kingdom, or the Czech Republic. These countries have different entry rules and can be a good way to reset your Schengen visa counter if needed.

Quick Checklist Before You Go

Check your passport expiration date
Look up visa requirements for your nationality
Apply for ETIAS if traveling in 2025 or later
Have proof of onward travel if required at border control

Best Ways to Travel Across Europe

A two month Europe itinerary requires a mix of transportation to keep travel time reasonable and costs under control. Trains, budget flights, and ferries are the most efficient ways to move between countries, with public transport for getting around cities.

Trains: Best for City-to-City Travel

Trains are one of the best ways to travel across European countries, especially in Western Europe, where high-speed trains connect major cities.

High-speed trains: Travel quickly between places like Paris, Madrid, and Rome. Book in advance for the best prices.
Regional trains: Slower but cheaper and great for short distances. No seat reservations required.
Overnight trains: A good option for long journeys, saving both time and a night in a hotel.
Eurail Pass: Can be a good option if taking multiple long-distance trains, but check if point-to-point tickets are cheaper for your route.

Flights: Best for Long Journeys

For travel between distant cities, direct flights with budget airlines like Ryanair and EasyJet are often faster and cheaper than trains.

Book early: Prices rise quickly, especially in summer.
Check baggage fees: Budget airlines charge extra for carry-ons and checked luggage.
Use secondary airports: Often cheaper, but factor in extra travel time to the city center.

Ferries: Best for Islands and Coastal Routes

Ferries are essential for places like the Greek Islands, Cinque Terre, and the Amalfi Coast.

Schedules vary: Some routes only run once daily, so check in advance.
Overnight ferries: A good way to save on accommodation costs.
Book in advance: Popular summer routes sell out quickly.

Public Transport: Best for Getting Around Cities

Most major cities have efficient public transport networks with metros, trams, and buses.

Travel cards: Offer unlimited rides in places like Paris, Barcelona, and Athens.
Free walking tours: A great way to explore city centers without spending money.
Train stations: Usually in the city center, making rail travel convenient.

Best Way to Choose the Right Transport

Under four hours: Take a train for comfort and city-center arrivals.
Four to eight hours: Compare train vs. flight time, including airport transfers.
Over eight hours: Consider an overnight train or a cheap flight.

Using a mix of trains, flights, and ferries makes this itinerary efficient while keeping travel days manageable.

Two Month Europe Itinerary Overview

This itinerary covers France, Portugal, Spain, Italy, and Greece, balancing major cities, smaller towns, and coastal destinations. Each stop includes enough time to explore without feeling rushed, with options for day trips and extra time in key locations.

How This Itinerary Is Structured

Major cities: Paris, Madrid, Rome, and Athens anchor the route
Smaller towns: Stops in places like the Loire Valley, Porto, and La Spezia add variety
Coastal destinations: French Riviera, Algarve, Cinque Terre, and Greek Islands provide beach time
Flexible travel days: Mix of direct trains, budget flights, and ferries keeps the trip efficient

Quick Breakdown of the Route

France (Days 1-12)
Paris → Loire Valley → French Riviera

Portugal (Days 13-24)
Lisbon & Sintra → Porto & Douro Valley → Algarve

Spain (Days 25-38)
Seville & Córdoba → Granada → Madrid & Toledo → Barcelona & Costa Brava

Italy (Days 39-52)
Rome → Florence & Cinque Terre → La Spezia → Amalfi Coast or Puglia

Greece (Days 53-60)
Athens → Santorini & Mykonos or Naxos → Crete or Milos

What to Expect in Each Country

France: Iconic landmarks, wine regions, and Mediterranean beaches
Portugal: Historic cities, scenic coastlines, and affordable food and wine
Spain: A mix of Moorish palaces, artistic hubs, and vibrant nightlife
Italy: Ancient ruins, rolling countryside, and world-famous cuisine
Greece: Island hopping, whitewashed villages, and rich history

Why This Route Works

Efficient travel flow: No backtracking, with smooth connections between destinations
Balanced pacing: Longer stays in major cities, shorter stays for quick highlights
Day trip options: Built-in flexibility to add or skip places based on interest

This two month Europe itinerary gives you a mix of fast-paced city stays, scenic countryside retreats, and coastal downtime, making it a well-rounded way to experience Western Europe.

France (Days 1 to 12)

France is the perfect place to start this two month Europe itinerary. With world-famous landmarks, historic towns, and stunning Mediterranean coastlines, this section of the trip balances city sightseeing, countryside escapes, and time by the sea.

Paris (Days 1 to 4)

Paris is one of the best starting points in Europe, with two major airports offering direct flights from the United States and many other countries. Four days is enough time to visit major landmarks, enjoy the local food, and explore different neighborhoods at a relaxed pace.

Top Places to Visit

Eiffel Tower: The best views are from Trocadéro in the morning or Champ de Mars in the evening
Louvre Museum: Buy tickets in advance to see the Mona Lisa and other famous works without waiting in long lines
Seine River: Walk along the riverbanks or take a cruise for a different view of the city
Montmartre: A historic arts district with narrow streets, local bakeries, and the hilltop Sacré-Cœur Basilica
Champs-Élysées and Arc de Triomphe: A classic Parisian boulevard lined with cafes, shops, and famous landmarks
Latin Quarter: One of the oldest parts of the city, filled with charming streets, bookshops, and lively restaurants
Musée d’Orsay: A must-visit for fans of Impressionist art, featuring works by Van Gogh, Monet, and Renoir

Day Trip Options from Paris

Palace of Versailles: A full-day trip to the grand estate of Louis XIV, known for its gardens and Hall of Mirrors
Giverny: The home of Claude Monet, where you can visit his gardens and the inspiration for his famous water lily paintings

This helpful guide will explain how you can visit Versailles and Giverny in one day.

Where to Stay

The best areas to stay are Saint-Germain, Le Marais, and the Latin Quarter for easy access to landmarks and a great local atmosphere.

Getting Around

The metro is the fastest way to travel across the city. A Paris Visite travel card or a pack of metro tickets is useful for multiple days of sightseeing.

Loire Valley (Days 5 to 7)

A two hour train ride from Paris takes you to the Loire Valley, a region known for its castles, vineyards, and countryside villages. This is a great place to slow down after busy days in Paris while still experiencing French history and culture.

Top Castles to Visit

Château de Chambord: One of the most impressive Renaissance castles in France, with a unique double-helix staircase
Château de Chenonceau: A castle built over the Cher River, surrounded by gardens and vineyards
Château d’Amboise: A hilltop fortress and the final resting place of Leonardo da Vinci

Other Things to Do

Rent a bike and ride through the vineyards and small villages
Visit a local winery for a wine tasting
Walk through the historic town of Tours, known for its half-timbered houses and lively markets

French Riviera (Days 8 to 12)

After exploring the Loire Valley, take a direct train to Nice, the largest city on the French Riviera. This region is known for its coastal beauty, historic towns, and relaxing Mediterranean atmosphere.

Where to Go

Nice: A great base with a scenic waterfront, historic old town, and excellent restaurants
Monaco: A small but famous city-state with the Monte Carlo Casino and the Prince’s Palace
Cannes: Known for its film festival, upscale shops, and sandy beaches
Antibes: A quieter coastal town with scenic sea views and a historic center

Best Things to Do

Walk along the Promenade des Anglais, a long seaside walkway in Nice
Visit the hilltop village of Èze, known for its medieval streets and panoramic views of the Mediterranean
Take a ferry to Saint-Tropez for a day at one of the most famous beaches in France
Explore the old town of Nice, with its colorful buildings, open-air markets, and traditional bakeries

How to Get Around

The regional train connects Nice, Monaco, Cannes, and other towns along the French Riviera, making it easy to explore without a car.

After twelve days in France, the next stop is Portugal, where the itinerary shifts to historic cities and scenic coastal regions.

Portugal (Days 13 to 24)

Portugal is one of the best places to slow down and enjoy a mix of historic cities, scenic coastlines, and relaxed countryside. With a lower cost of travel than France or Italy, this section of the trip offers great food, cultural landmarks, and plenty of variety without breaking the budget.

If you prefer to spend more time is rural areas but still want to hit the main attractions, check out this guide to visiting Lisbon and Porto in just 5 days.

Lisbon and Sintra (Days 13 to 16)

Lisbon is one of the most vibrant cities in Europe, with steep cobblestone streets, historic tram rides, and incredible views from hilltop miradouros. The mix of old-world charm and modern energy makes it a perfect place to start exploring Portugal.

Top Places to Visit in Lisbon

Belém Tower: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks
Jerónimos Monastery: A stunning example of Manueline architecture, best visited early in the morning
São Jorge Castle: A medieval fortress with panoramic views over the city
LX Factory: A former industrial complex turned into a trendy hub for restaurants, shops, and street art
Bairro Alto: The best neighborhood for nightlife, with fado music bars and lively restaurants
Tram 28: A historic yellow tram that runs through Lisbon’s most scenic neighborhoods

Day Trip to Sintra

Sintra is only forty minutes from Lisbon by train and is one of the most magical places in Portugal. Known for its fairy tale palaces and lush gardens, it is a must-visit.

Pena Palace: A colorful palace sitting high above the hills, offering some of the best views in Portugal
Quinta da Regaleira: A mystical estate with underground tunnels, secret passageways, and the famous Initiation Well
Moorish Castle: A medieval fortress with walking paths along the ancient stone walls

Porto and Douro Valley (Days 17 to 18)

A direct train from Lisbon to Porto takes about three hours. Porto is a smaller and more relaxed city than Lisbon, known for its blue tile-covered churches, the Douro River, and port wine cellars.

Best Things to Do in Porto

Livraria Lello: One of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, rumored to have inspired parts of Harry Potter
Ribeira District: A scenic waterfront area with colorful buildings and lively cafes
Clérigos Tower: A historic bell tower with some of the best views over Porto
São Bento Train Station: Famous for its intricate blue and white tile murals
Port Wine Cellars: Take a tour in Vila Nova de Gaia to learn about Portugal’s famous fortified wine

Douro Valley

The Douro Valley is one of the oldest wine regions in the world and is perfect for a short trip from Porto.

Take a river cruise along the Douro to see the terraced vineyards from the water
Visit family-run wineries and try local wines paired with traditional Portuguese food
Enjoy a scenic train journey through the valley, stopping at picturesque villages along the way

Algarve (Days 19 to 24)

After exploring the cities, the trip slows down in the Algarve, Portugal’s southern coastline known for its golden cliffs, hidden sea caves, and stunning beaches. This is a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Portugal.

Where to Stay in the Algarve

Lagos: A lively beach town with historic streets and great nightlife
Albufeira: A mix of sandy beaches, restaurants, and resort-style stays
Tavira: A quieter town with whitewashed buildings and a laid-back atmosphere

Best Beaches and Coastal Spots

Ponta da Piedade: One of the most famous viewpoints in Portugal, with towering rock formations over turquoise waters
Benagil Cave: A sea cave with a massive open skylight, only accessible by boat or kayak
Praia da Marinha: A picture-perfect beach surrounded by dramatic cliffs
Ilha Deserta: A peaceful, untouched island perfect for a quiet beach day

Things to Do in the Algarve

Take a boat tour to explore sea caves and hidden beaches
Hike along the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail for some of the best coastal views in Portugal
Visit the historic town of Silves to see its medieval castle and cobblestone streets

The Algarve is a great way to wrap up the Portugal section of this itinerary before heading into Spain for the next part of the trip.

Spain (Days 25 to 38)

Spain is one of the most exciting countries in Europe, known for its historic cities, Moorish palaces, flamenco music, and world-famous food. This section of the itinerary covers southern Spain’s Andalusian charm, the royal and artistic heart of Madrid, and the coastal beauty of Barcelona and Costa Brava.

Check out my 5 day itinerary for Madrid and Barcelona to free up even more time for the south of Spain!

Seville and Córdoba (Days 25 to 28)

Seville is one of the most beautiful cities in Spain, with stunning Moorish architecture, orange tree-lined streets, and vibrant plazas. It is the perfect introduction to Andalusia, a region known for its rich history and flamenco culture.

Best Things to Do in Seville

Alcázar of Seville: A breathtaking palace with intricate tilework, lush gardens, and a mix of Moorish and Spanish design
Seville Cathedral and La Giralda: One of the largest cathedrals in the world and home to Christopher Columbus’ tomb
Plaza de España: A grand semicircular plaza with tiled bridges and rowboats along the canal
Metropol Parasol: A modern wooden structure with a rooftop walkway offering some of the best views of the city
Barrio Santa Cruz: A charming neighborhood with narrow streets, hidden courtyards, and tapas bars

Day Trip to Córdoba

A direct train from Seville to Córdoba takes under an hour, making it an easy day trip.

Mezquita-Catedral: A unique mosque-cathedral with iconic red and white arches
Jewish Quarter: A maze of historic streets filled with whitewashed buildings and flower-filled patios
Roman Bridge: A scenic walkway over the Guadalquivir River, especially beautiful at sunset

Granada (Days 29 to 30)

Granada is home to one of the most incredible sights in Spain—the Alhambra. This city has a unique mix of Moorish, Spanish, and gypsy influences, creating a one-of-a-kind atmosphere.

Best Things to Do in Granada

Alhambra Palace: A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring Islamic architecture, tranquil gardens, and breathtaking views of the Sierra Nevada mountains
Generalife Gardens: A peaceful retreat filled with fountains, flowers, and shaded walkways
Albaicín: The old Moorish quarter, filled with historic houses, tea shops, and lookout points with views of the Alhambra
Sacromonte: The gypsy district known for its cave houses and live flamenco shows

Madrid and Toledo (Days 31 to 34)

Madrid is the capital of Spain and a city filled with world-class art, royal palaces, and a buzzing food scene. A few days here provide a balance of history, culture, and modern city life.

Best Things to Do in Madrid

Prado Museum: One of the most important art museums in the world, featuring works by Goya, Velázquez, and El Greco
Royal Palace of Madrid: A grand and ornate palace with over 3,400 rooms, including the stunning Throne Room
Retiro Park: A massive green space perfect for a relaxing walk or a rowboat ride on the central lake
Gran Vía: The city’s main shopping street, lined with theaters, cafes, and historic buildings
Mercado de San Miguel: A must-visit for Spanish tapas, seafood, and traditional Iberian ham

Day Trip to Toledo

A thirty-minute train ride from Madrid, Toledo is a medieval city filled with historical landmarks.

Alcázar of Toledo: A fortress with sweeping views over the city
Toledo Cathedral: One of the most impressive cathedrals in Spain
El Greco Museum: Showcasing works by the famous painter who lived in Toledo
Jewish Quarter: A well-preserved district with synagogues, winding streets, and historic homes

Barcelona and Costa Brava (Days 35 to 38)

Barcelona is one of the most unique cities in Europe, known for Gaudí’s colorful architecture, its Mediterranean coastline, and a lively atmosphere.

Best Things to Do in Barcelona

Sagrada Familia: The famous basilica designed by Antoni Gaudí, still under construction after more than 140 years
Park Güell: A surreal park filled with mosaic-covered structures and sweeping views over the city
Gothic Quarter: A historic area with medieval streets, hidden plazas, and Roman ruins
La Boqueria Market: The best place to try local food, from fresh seafood to jamón ibérico
Barceloneta Beach: A great place to relax and enjoy the Mediterranean coastline

Day Trip to Costa Brava

Costa Brava is a coastal region north of Barcelona with scenic beaches and charming villages.

Tossa de Mar: A beautiful seaside town with a historic walled fortress
Cadaqués: A whitewashed village that was once home to Salvador Dalí
Camí de Ronda: A hiking trail along the cliffs with breathtaking sea views

After nearly two weeks in Spain, the next stop is Italy, where the trip moves into historic cities, Tuscan countryside, and the Italian coastline.

Italy (Days 39 to 52)

Italy is one of the most diverse and rewarding countries to explore in Europe. This section of the itinerary covers ancient ruins, Renaissance cities, stunning coastlines, and charming countryside. The route moves from Rome to Florence, through Cinque Terre and La Spezia, and ends with a choice between the Amalfi Coast and Puglia.

Rome (Days 39 to 42)

Rome is packed with some of the most famous landmarks in the world, making it one of the most exciting stops on this trip. Three full days provide enough time to explore historic sites, enjoy Italian food, and take in the city’s unique atmosphere.

Check out this guide for the 19 best things to do in Rome!

Best places to visit

Colosseum and Roman Forum: The heart of ancient Rome with ruins of temples, basilicas, and government buildings
Vatican City: Home to St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Museums
Trevi Fountain: One of the most famous fountains in the world, where visitors toss a coin to ensure their return to Rome
Pantheon: A remarkably well-preserved Roman temple with a massive dome
Piazza Navona: A lively square surrounded by restaurants, fountains, and street artists
Trastevere: A charming neighborhood known for its cobblestone streets, lively bars, and some of the best traditional restaurants in Rome

Day trip option

Ostia Antica is an easy day trip from Rome, offering a glimpse into an ancient Roman harbor city that is often compared to Pompeii but with far fewer crowds.

Florence and Cinque Terre (Days 43 to 48)

A high speed train from Rome to Florence takes just under two hours. Florence is the birthplace of the Renaissance and home to some of the most famous art and architecture in Europe.

Best places to visit in Florence

Duomo and Brunelleschi’s Dome: Climb to the top for a panoramic view over the city
Uffizi Gallery: A world famous art museum with works by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelangelo
Ponte Vecchio: A medieval bridge lined with shops and one of Florence’s most recognizable landmarks
Piazzale Michelangelo: The best place to watch the sunset with views over the Arno River
Mercato Centrale: A great spot to try Florentine specialties like bistecca alla fiorentina

Visiting Cinque Terre

From Florence, take a train to La Spezia, the gateway to Cinque Terre. These five coastal villages are known for their colorful houses, dramatic cliffs, and scenic hiking trails.

Monterosso al Mare: The only village with a proper sandy beach
Vernazza: One of the most picturesque towns with a small harbor and scenic views
Corniglia: The quietest of the five villages, sitting higher up on a cliff
Manarola: Famous for its postcard perfect view of colorful houses stacked on the hillside
Riomaggiore: The best place to start or end a hike along the coastline

The best way to explore Cinque Terre is by train, with a short ride between each village. Hiking trails connect the towns for those who want to experience the coastline on foot.

La Spezia (Days 49 to 50)

La Spezia is often overlooked but makes a great place to unwind after visiting Cinque Terre. It is a quiet coastal city with a working port, excellent seafood, and easy connections to other parts of Italy.

Best things to do in La Spezia

Walk along the waterfront promenade for views of the harbor and surrounding hills
Visit the Naval Technical Museum to learn about Italy’s maritime history
Take a ferry to Porto Venere, a small but beautiful town often compared to Cinque Terre without the crowds

Amalfi Coast or Puglia (Days 51 to 52)

The final stop in Italy offers two options. The Amalfi Coast is one of the most famous coastal regions in the world, while Puglia is a lesser known but equally beautiful destination with fewer tourists.

Option one: Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast is known for its dramatic cliffs, colorful villages, and Mediterranean views. It is a great place to relax and enjoy the Italian coastline before moving on to Greece.

Positano: The most famous town, known for its pastel-colored buildings and pebble beach (check out this guide for the best restaurants in Positano)
Amalfi: A historic town with a cathedral, scenic streets, and easy ferry connections to other coastal towns
Ravello: A hilltop village with incredible sea views and peaceful gardens

Option two: Puglia

Puglia is located in southern Italy and offers a more authentic experience with stunning beaches, charming towns, and excellent food.

Alberobello: A town famous for its trulli, unique white stone houses with cone shaped roofs
Polignano a Mare: A seaside town with dramatic cliffs and crystal clear water
Lecce: A historic city known for its baroque architecture and lively piazzas

Both options provide a relaxing way to end this leg of the trip before taking a flight or ferry to Greece.

Greece (Days 53 to 60)

Greece is the perfect place to wrap up this two month Europe itinerary. With its mix of ancient history, stunning islands, and relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere, this final leg of the trip balances sightseeing with plenty of downtime. The itinerary includes Athens before heading to the Greek islands, with options to customize based on how much beach time you want. Whether this is your first time in Greece or your tenth, this itinerary covers something for everyone.

Athens (Days 53 to 55)

Athens is one of the oldest cities in the world and home to some of the most important historical sites in Europe. Two full days are enough to see the highlights and experience the local food before heading to the islands.

Best places to visit

Acropolis and Parthenon: The most famous landmark in Greece, sitting on a hill overlooking the city
Ancient Agora: A well-preserved marketplace where philosophers like Socrates once gathered
Plaka: The oldest neighborhood in Athens, filled with charming streets, traditional tavernas, and local shops
National Archaeological Museum: A must-visit for history lovers, with artifacts from ancient Greek civilization
Mount Lycabettus: The highest point in Athens, offering incredible views over the city

Best things to do

Take a free walking tour to get an overview of Athens and its history
Try Greek street food like souvlaki, gyros, and loukoumades
Watch the changing of the guard at Syntagma Square, an important cultural tradition

Greek Islands (Days 56 to 60)

After Athens, the itinerary moves to the Greek islands for the final stretch of the trip. There are two main options depending on travel style and interests.

Option one: Santorini and Mykonos

Santorini and Mykonos are the most famous Greek islands, offering stunning views, whitewashed villages, and a vibrant atmosphere.

Santorini

Oia: The most picturesque village, known for its blue domed churches and famous sunset views
Fira: The capital of Santorini with great restaurants, bars, and nightlife
Red Beach: A unique volcanic beach with striking red cliffs and clear water
Akrotiri: An ancient Minoan city buried under volcanic ash, often called the Greek Pompeii

Mykonos

Little Venice: A scenic waterfront area with historic buildings and a lively atmosphere
Windmills of Mykonos: One of the most famous landmarks on the island
Paradise Beach: A well-known beach with crystal clear water and a lively party scene
Delos: A small island near Mykonos that was an important religious and trade center in ancient Greece

Option two: Naxos and Crete

For a more relaxed and less touristy island experience, Naxos and Crete offer beautiful beaches, traditional villages, and plenty of history.

Naxos

Portara: An ancient marble gateway and one of the most famous sights in Naxos
Agios Prokopios Beach: A long stretch of soft sand and turquoise water
Halki: A charming village with local shops and historic architecture
Mount Zas: The highest peak in the Cyclades, offering great hiking and panoramic views

Crete

Chania: A beautiful coastal city with Venetian and Ottoman influences
Elafonissi Beach: A pink sand beach with shallow, clear waters
Samaria Gorge: One of the best hiking spots in Greece, cutting through a dramatic canyon
Knossos Palace: The center of the ancient Minoan civilization and one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece

Both island options offer a mix of relaxation, culture, and outdoor activities. Ferries and flights connect the islands back to Athens, making it easy to return before heading home.

European Summer Travel Tips

A two month Europe itinerary is an incredible experience, but planning a long trip like this requires some extra preparation. These final tips will help with packing, budgeting, transportation, and staying safe while traveling.

Packing List and Essentials

Packing light is important for a long trip, especially when moving between different countries. A carry-on backpack or suitcase with a few versatile outfits is better than overpacking and struggling with heavy luggage on trains and public transport.

Must-have items

A reliable travel backpack or suitcase that is easy to carry on trains and buses
Comfortable walking shoes for exploring cities and historic sites
A lightweight jacket for cooler nights or unexpected weather
Universal power adapter since European countries use different plug types
Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and save money
Copies of important documents, including passport, visa information, and travel insurance details

Best Transportation Methods

Trains, flights, and ferries all play a role in making this itinerary efficient.

Book high speed train tickets early for the best prices
Use budget airlines for long distances, but check baggage fees before booking
Ferries between Greek islands and the Amalfi Coast should be booked in advance during summer
Public transport in major cities is usually the fastest and cheapest way to get around

Budget Breakdown and Money-Saving Tips

Europe can be expensive, but there are plenty of ways to keep costs under control without missing out on experiences.

Buy city passes in places like Paris, Rome, and Barcelona to get free entry to major attractions
Stay just outside the city center to save on hotels while still being close to public transport
Book flights and long distance train tickets at least a month in advance for the lowest prices
Eat at local markets, bakeries, and casual restaurants for great food at lower prices

Travel Insurance and Safety Considerations

Travel insurance is highly recommended for a long trip. It can cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.

Keep an eye on your belongings in busy areas, especially train stations and public transport
Use a money belt or crossbody bag to avoid pickpockets in crowded tourist areas
Be aware of common travel scams, such as people offering “free gifts” or distractions in major cities

A two month trip through Europe takes planning, but with the right preparation, it is an unforgettable experience. This itinerary is designed to balance major cities, historic sites, scenic landscapes, and downtime along the way, making it a great way to explore multiple countries at a comfortable pace.