Skip the City Trips and Find Out What Europe Has to Offer!
The cities of Europe are so vibrant, colorful, and exciting to explore — but stepping outside the (very) busy streets will reward you with more. An ideal solution for travellers who seek to see more, day trips range from quaint villages to stunning natural landscapes. This guide will look at top 15 Days Europe Tours from major European cities. They are all easily accessible, offer a lot to see and do, and serve you a shortened version of an unforgettable journey. Let’s dive in!
From Amsterdam to Zaanse Schans,NL
Distance: 20 minutes by train
There is more wisdom in visiting Zaanse Schans than Amsterdam itself, as it feels like a storybook version of the Netherlands within a short trip from Amsterdam! One such location, which draws hundreds of tourists daily, is Zaanse Schans: the historic village known for its classic Dutch windmills, wooden houses, and beautiful views of the Zaan River.
What to Do and See in Zaanse Schans
A visit to Zaanse Schans will allow you to step inside traditional wooden houses and shops, stroll around, and explore the windmills—several are still in operation here for grinding spices, oil, sawing wood, etc. Top 15 days Europe tours are open for visitors to observe them in action and also learn about their historical significance.
- Sample Dutch Cheese at the Cheese Farm: Dutch cheese is famous worldwide, and you can taste some of the best cheeses right here in Zaanse Schans. Visitors can taste and observe how Dutch cheese is traditionally made at the Catharina Ho eve Cheese Farm.
- See Clog-Making Demonstrations: Visit the Wooden Shoe Workshop and Museum to watch these craftsmen create the iconic Dutch clogs. Take one for a test drive, and snap a photo.
- Walk-In Beautiful Scenery: Scenic footpaths weave through lush green pastures and along the waterside, perfect for snapping photos of this beautiful location.
- Angelina: Shop for Souvenirs—There are several cute shops at Zaanse Schans where you can find that unique gift, from traditional Dutch products like Delftware pottery to chocolate and cheese.
Versailles, France, from Paris
Distance: 30 minutes by train
The Versailles Palace is one of France’s most notable landmarks, only half an hour from Paris. What was formerly the home of French royalty is now a UNESCO World Heritage site, shining a light on French Baroque architecture and design. Grand halls, huge gardens, and intricate artworks are only some of the things you access while exploring Versailles Palace.
What to see and do in Versailles
Each chamber tells a different story, from the king’s extravagant chambers to the queen’s Apartments.
- Gardens wander: the palace gardens are identical to the gardens, featuring geometric shapes, flower beds, and sculpted fountains within 1,976 acres. Throughout the summer, the fountains’ waters are set to music, adding a harmonious vibe to your visit—Grand Trianon and Petit
- Trianon’s visit: two smaller palaces specified for royals’ private usage. Petit Trianon was a personal retreat for Marie Antoinette, who was also responsible for constructing the nearby hamlet to recreate a country atmosphere. The Grand Canal, which you can row a boat through, offers another perspective of the massive Gardens using a rented rowboat to row down the Grand Canal.
- Battles gallery visit: paintings of famous wars students France’s military past. The location is unique to other Versailles citizens and other places around as preparations for France’s political and cultural future. Visiting Versailles is an excellent opportunity to glimpse French royalty’s luxurious everyday lives.
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Rome to Tivoli, Italy
Distance: 1 hour by train
Tivoli, a hill town near Rome, is recognised for its UNESCO-listed villas and ancient ruins surrounded by hills and greenery. A short day trip from the capital takes you out into a world of emperors and Renaissance cardinals.
What to See and Do in Tivoli
- You will be amazed at Villa d’Este: This Renaissance villa boasts formal gardens with hundreds of fountains, pools, and sculptural garden ornaments. The Fountain of Neptune and the Hundred Fountains are perhaps the most stunning, as both are decorated with an elaborate array of waterworks, creating a fairy tale ambience.
- Visit Hadrian’s Villa (Villa Adriana): This enormous complex was built in the 2nd century AD as a retreat for Emperor Hadrian and includes baths, temples, and stunning mosaics. Wandering the ruins highlights how large and magnificent Ancient Roman architecture was and gives you insight into imperial living.
- Take a Stroll Through the Historic Center of Tivoli: The town of Tivoli itself is historical, with narrow cobblestone streets, small cafes, and local shops. Take time to wander, eat gelato, and absorb the Italian way of life.
- Explore the Temple of Vesta: The ancient Temple of Vesta, which sits on a hill above the Aniene River, is truly one of the most elegant remains from Roman times. It is scenic, with a few great spots in and around the temple area for photography.
- Unwind in the Thermal Springs: Tivoli is also the home of the Acque Albule thermal baths, which are natural hot springs that have been used for centuries. They are great for unwinding after a long day of sightseeing and are reputed to have medicinal properties.
From Barcelona to Montserrat, Spain
Travel time: 1.5 hours by train and cable car
Just outside of Barcelona is the spectacular mountain range of Montserrat, which means “Serrated Mountain.” Montserrat Day Trip: One of the most popular day trips from Barcelona, Montserrat is famous for its unusual rock formations, stunning natural landscape, and the hilltop Montserrat Monastery. Sitting high up on the mountainside mountainside, Montserrat is a treat for all your senses, with its history of importance next to spirituality while providing a hint of adventure and stunning views.
What To See & Do in Montserrat
- Listen to the Montserrat Boys’ Choir: The monastery is also home to one of Europe’s oldest boys’ choirs, L’Escolania DE Montserrat. Hearing their daily performances is a magical experience, especially in the basilica’s peaceful atmosphere.
- Sightseeing and Hiking: Some scenic trails surrounding Montserrat wind through the unique formations, providing hikers with incredible vistas over Catalonia. Hikers flock to the Sant Jeroni trail, which takes you to the top point on Montserrat for dazzling 360º views.
- Take the Funiculars: The best way to take advantage of all those mountain views is by taking one of Montserrat’s funiculars. Those wanting to go even higher up can ride the Funicular de Sant Joan, which offers stunning views at a planted point. Those looking for something more zen can take the Funicular de la Santa Cova to a path with chapels and statues built along it.
- Visit the Montserrat Museum: If you enjoy art, the Montserrat Museum contains an incredible collection of pieces not only by artists from Spain, such as Picasso and Dali, but also ancient pieces from Egypt and Mesopotamia.
London to Windsor, England
Distance: 30 minutes by train
Windsor is only a short train journey from London and the world-famous Windsor Castle, home of the royals and one of the oldest castles inhabited by royalty. With its cobblestone streets, quaint shops, and picturesque river views, Windsor is an ideal day trip from London for anyone who loves British history or monarchy or just wants to escape the city for a while.
What to See and Do in Windsor
- Visit Windsor Castle: The main attraction in Windsor, and a must for any history buff, is the impressive Windsor Castle. For over 1,000 years, the castle has been home to British monarchs and is regularly used by the Royal Family. Topped by St. George’s Chapel, where many of the United Kingdom’s monarchs are buried, and bursting with art and treasures from the royal collection, highlights include:
- See the Changing of the Guard: Like the ceremony at Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle’s Changing of the Guard is a ceremonial performance that oozes British tradition. It happens outdoors on the castle grounds, and it is neat to see the guards marching in full regalia.
- Take a walk along the River Thames: Windsor is located on the banks of the River Thames, so a walk along the riverbank will give you a nice view of the town and castle. You can even sit back and unwind on a boat cruise at the river while taking in one of Windsor’s scenery by water!
Berlin to Potsdam, Germany
Distance: 40 minutes by train
Potsdam surely deserves a visit to a city of palaces, parks, and historic beauty outside Berlin. Potsdam (1/2 day) – home to the impressive Sanssouci Palace and gardens, former residence of Prussian kings and German emperors. The Potsdam UNESCO World Heritage Site at sunset.
What to See and Do in Potsdam
The palace is a splendid Rococo-style structure with beautiful rooms and extravagant terraced landscaping. It is surrounded by gardens with fountains, statues, and walkways, all fun to wander around.
- Visit the Dutch Quarter: Potsdam’s Dutch Quarter is a quaint little neighbourhood featuring red-brick houses that give off a unique, almost Dutch-like atmosphere. The quarter, which dates back to the 18th century when it was part of a plan to lure Dutch artisans to Potsdam, is now crammed with boutique shops, cafes, and galleries where you can wander freely on foot.
- New Palace (Neues Palais): New Palace is another large palace within the park complex at Potsdam. Bigger and more ostentatious than Sanssouci, it was designed to impress foreign dignitaries with its pompous rooms, salons, and sumptuous art. It helps abstractly realise the Prussian royalty grandeur characteristic between segments of henchmen (the} New Palace.
- Check out Cecilienhof Palace: The site of the Potsdam Conference in 1945, when Allied leaders convened to determine Germany’s postwar fate, is one of the places where you can experience history. The palace replicates an English Tudor manor, complete with history displays associated with the conference.
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From Prague to Kutná Hora in the Czech Republic
Distance: 1 hour by train
Located about one hour from Prague, Kutná Hora is known for its medieval buildings, Gothic churches, and a particular site called Sedlec Ossuary, or the “Bone Church.” Once a thriving silver mining town, more significant than Prague during the Middle Ages — this UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its well-preserved medieval style.
Things to See and Do in Kutná Hora
- Visit St. Barbara’s Church: This beautiful Gothic cathedral represents the best of medieval architecture and is one of the main attractions in Kutná Hora. St. Barbara’s Church, named after the patron saint of miners, reminds visitors of how much this town was once the center of mining.
- Wander the Old Town: The Old Town of Kutná Hora is a lovely area with cobbled streets, historical architecture, and little outdoor cafes. It feels like you have gone back to medieval times, and with it being so peaceful, this is a great place to take a nice stroll.
Wachau Valley from Vienna, Austria
Distance: 1 hour by train
Wachau Valley, on the banks of the Danube from Vienna to Krems, is a scenic UNESCO World Heritage region dotted with wines, old villages, and castles. Wachau Valley: Located just an hour away from Vienna, the Wachau Valley is a perfect getaway for anyone wanting to experience nature in Austria, taste some local wine, and visit charming medieval towns.
Things to Do and See in the Wachau Valley
- See Melk Abbey: Melk Abbey is one of the most recognisable sites in the Wachau Valley. It is a beautiful hilltop Benedictine abbey overlooking the river. It features Baroque-style architecture, lavishly decorated rooms, a vast library containing centuries-old manuscripts, and a museum.
- Have a Cruise on the Danube River: A cruise along the Danube River is one of the most excellent methods to soak in all of the surroundings that come with the Wachau Valley. Bordered by vineyards, baroque monasteries, and old castles like Dürnstein, Melk, and Krems, the region has more than a few visits to offer; many cruises take their time moving through this part of Austria with several places along the way.
- Wander around the Village of Dürnstein: The village itself is as postcard-worthy as it gets with its historic houses and cobbled streets. Durnstein: the town is best known for Dürnstein Castle, a kind of captive Richard the Lion heart in the Craze century.
- Wine Tasting in the Local Vineyards: The Wachau Valley is one of Austria’s leading wine regions, offering incredible white wines — especially cool-climate Grüner Veltliner and Riesling.
Madrid to Toledo, Spain
Distance: 30 minutes by train
Toledo, also called the City of Three Cultures, is an ancient town where a combination of Christianity, Judaism, and Islam can be found. Toledo, one of Spain’s most beautiful cities, boasts medieval architecture, glorious churches, and winding cobblestone streets just half an hour from Madrid.
What to See and Do in Toledo
- Visit the Toledo Cathedral: The stunning Toledo Cathedral (the Primate Cathedral of Saint Mary) is a beautiful example of a Gothic cathedral in Spain. That said, the grand architecture is worth visiting, along with its many intricate sculptures and beautiful stained glass windows.
- Gaze Upon El Greco’s Masterpiece: The Church of Santo Tome is the site of one of El Greco’s most masterpieces, The Burial of the Count of Orgaz. El Greco is famous for his dramatic paintings that depict bright colours and even brighter emotions, which makes this church an excellent stop on your Roosevelt Island trip if you enjoy something crafty at the end of your day.
- Explore Toledo’s Jewish Quarter: Toledo’s Jewish Quarter is a labyrinth of narrow, winding streets and artisan shops. Well-known for its traditional craftsmanship, the area features shops selling local souvenirs such as Damascene jewelry – an art form that uses gold and silver in laced into iron.
Lisbon to Sintra, Portugal
Distance: 40 minutes by train
Sintra, only a brief train ride from Lisbon, is where fairy tales come alive. Home to colorful palaces, secret gardens, and ancient estates in the hills of the Sintra Mountains, this picturesque UNESCO town expands well beyond romantic Lisbon. Sintra’s colorful architecture meets lush greenery, and the brutal tourism offence hits the hotel’s top 100 lists; this city break may just be one of Portugal’s most enchanting destinations for those looking to escape into a fairy tale land.
What to See and Do in Sintra
- Visit the Pena Palace: The Pena Palace is one of Sintra’s most famous sights, located on a hill. The palace features bright hues and Topsy-turvy architectural accents with Neo-Gothic, Neo-Renaissance, and Moorish elements.
- Explore the Gardens of Quinta da Regaleira: This fairy tale estate is known for its lush gardens, mysterious caves, and secret tunnels. One of Quinta DA Regaleira’s standout features is the Initiation Well, a spiral staircase that descends into the ground.
- Discover the Moorish Castle (Castelo dos Mouros): Dating back to the 8th and 9th centuries, this ancient fortress provides a glimpse into Portugal’s Islamic past. With its stone walls and towers, the castle looks out over Sintra and fields and hills. Visitors can enjoy the historical significance and great views while walking along the ramparts.
- Wander Around the Historic Center of Sintra: The little town center of Sintra is full of lovely shops, local cafes, and artisan boutiques. Swing by to try the famous traverses (вшe pastry filled with almond cream) or other Portuguese specialities at local bakeries.
Athens to Delphi, Greece
Distance – 2 hrs by vehicle or bus
The ancient site of Delphi is one of the top day trips from Athens, with good reason, as it was one of Greece’s most important sites! Delphi was the center of the ancient world, where many pilgrims made their way to consult with the Oracle, who determined their path.
What to See and Do in Delphi
Explore the Temple of Apollo, the center of Delphi, where the Oracle shared her prophecies. The 4th-cent. BC temple, with its remains of mighty Doric columns, suggests what had once been—its former glory. If you stand here and close your eyes, you can feel the power and mystery of this place so holy thousands of years ago.
- Visit the Delphi Archaeological Museum: The museum contains some of the most significant finds from ancient Greece, such as statues, pottery, and the famous Charioteer of Delphi (a bronze statue considered one of the finest examples of fragmented antique craftsmanship). The museum complements the ruins and makes the history of Delphi come alive.
- Visit the Theater of Delphi: Located on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, this ancient theatre has stunning views overlooking the valley below. Once home to musical competitions and plays performed in honour of the god Apollo.
- Worship at Delphi: See the Tholos, a massive round-shaped building with ornately made stone columns within the Athena Pronaia sanctuary. Its exact purpose is a mystery, too, adding to Delphi’s allure. One of the most photographed sites in Delphi, this ancient structure is a beautiful example of Greek architecture.
Brussels to Bruges, Belgium
Distance: 1 hour by train
Bruges, the Venice of the North, is a beautiful medieval town straight out of a fairy tale! Bruges (or Brugge) is one of Belgium’s prettiest destinations, famous for its canals, cobbled streets, and beautiful architecture. This storybook town has a beautiful landscape, stunning history, and delicious food to try.
What to See and Do in Bruges
Go On A Canal Boat Tour → Picturesque canals run through Bruges, and one of the best ways to see the town is on a boat tour. Tourists admire the medieval architecture, colorful buildings, and stone bridges along the canals as they glide along the waterways.
- Related: Climbing the Belfry of Bruges The Belfry, or Belfort, is one of the most recognisable sights in referencia de jewelry and جوا هرفنا. Visitors can walk up the 366 stairs to the top for expansive views of the town and beyond.
- Walk around the Markt in Bruges: The Markt is the vibrant center of Bruges. Thank you automatically. He answered our questions with him, surrounded by colorful medieval Flemish buildings, coffee shops, and the Provincial Court.
- Take a tour of the Basilica of the Holy Blood: This petite but picturesque basilica contains what are supposedly drops of Christ’s blood in a holy relic. Adorned with lavish decorations, Gothic arches, and less-than-subtle stained glass scenes, the interior of this church has come to be regarded with high respect in Bruges.
- Treat Yourself to Belgian Chocolate and Waffles: You cannot visit Bruges without tasting its famous chocolates and waffles. Visitors can sample truffles, pralines, and other treats from artisanal chocolate shops throughout the town. The original Belgian snack is a hot waffle with whipped cream or chocolate.
Stockholm to Uppsala, Sweden
Distance: 40 minutes by train
Uppsala is undoubtedly one of the oldest and most historic cities in Sweden, and it only takes a train ride from Stockholm to reach it. Known above all for its reputed university, impressive cathedral, and Viking legacy, Uppsala makes for an excellent day trip into Swedish culture, history, and academia.
What to See and Do in Uppsala
- Look at the Uppsala Cathedral: Dominating the city is Uppsala Cathedral, gripping in size and one of Scandinavia’s oldest cathedrals. Built in the 13th century, this Gothic masterpiece is famous for its stunning architecture, lovely chapels, and soaring spires.
- Discover Uppsala University—and Museum Gustavianum: Founded in 1477, Uppsala University is the oldest university in Sweden and has produced quite a few prominent scholars through the centuries.
- Explore Gamla Uppsala (Old Uppsala): Just outside the city, you’ll find Old Uppsala, a historic site with burial mounds from the Viking Age. These impressive mounds are thought to be the tombs of Viking kings. Located in the area, the Old Uppsala Museum sheds more light on Viking history, Norse mythology, and archaeological discoveries.
- Stroll Along the Fyris River: The calm Fyris River bisects Uppsala’s city center and provides beautiful views along with a quiet walking path. Stroll along the embankment, where there are old houses with cafes on the ground floors, or go to one of the parks by the river.
- See the Linnaeus Garden: Named after the famous botanist Carl Linnaeus, who lived and taught in Uppsala, this lovely botanical garden includes plants Linnaeus studied and classified. Sweden’s most renowned scientist, Linnaeus, is celebrated partly at his former home, the Linnaeus Museum.
From Copenhagen to Helsingør, Denmark
Distance: 45 minutes by train
A coastal town north of Copenhagen called Helsingør is known foremost as where Kronborg Castle — the castle that inspired Shakespeare’s Hamlet — is found. Visiting our neighbours across the water makes sense, and a day out in Helsingør will have you exploring one of Denmark’s most famous castles and soaking up a relaxed vibe in a pretty coastline town.
Things to Do in Helsingør: The Following Attractions
Kronborg Castle- Tour: The number one attraction in Helsingør is UNESCO-listed Kronborg Castle. The Renaissance fortress is the setting for the action of Shakespeare’s Hamlet, and it boasts elegant halls, sumptuous chambers, and aerial views over the sea. Visitors can access the castle’s royal apartments, chapel, and creepy underground case-mates.
- See a Hamlet Show: The outer courtyard of Kronborg Castle is regularly used for live performances of Hamlet, particularly in the summer months. Seeing Shakespeare’s tragic classic in the actual castle that inspired it is an experience like no other.
- Walk Around the Historic Center of Helsingør: The town center of Helsingør is a beautiful maze of cobbled streets, colorful buildings, and historic architecture. Wander through the old city, browse local shops, and eat at one of the many quaint cafes that dot the streets.
- Explore the Maritime Museum of Denmark: Situated in an impressive underground structure close to Kronborg Castle, the museum depicts Denmark’s seafaring heritage. With displays on Danish explorers, aspects of naval history, and hands-on activities, it is an interesting place for both children and adults alike.
- Chill by the Øresund Coastline: Helsingør is also located on the coast, so you have beautiful views over Sweden across the Øresund Strait. The harbour area is ideal for a stroll, and the nearby shorelines are an incredible spot to sit and breathe refreshing sea air.
Switzerland, Zurich to Lucerne
Distance: 1 hour by train
Luzern, or Lucerne, as you may know, its real name【13】(see map), is one of Switzerland’s most beautiful towns. It is located straight between a couple of mountains and Lake Lucerne, which can easily be day-tripped from Zurich. With its well-preserved medieval architecture, inviting lake views, and backdrop of the Swiss Alps, Lucerne is a great harmony between natural beauty and cultural experience.
What to See and Do in Lucerne
Cross Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke) is one of Lucerne’s most recognisable landmarks and the oldest wooden covered bridge in Europe. Colourful flowers line the bridge during the summer, and 17th-century paintings portray scenes from the town’s history.
- See Touristique → Visit the Lion Monument: A sculpture on a sandstone rock face commemorates the members of the Swiss Guards who were killed during the French Revolution; this is the Lion Monument. A mortally wounded lion representing the notion of bravery and fidelity, the poignant statue is one of the most visited sites in Lucerne.
- Visit the Old Town (Altstadt) of Lucerne: Colourful, frescoes buildings, medieval towers, and narrow cobbled streets populate the Old Town of Lucerne. Cafes, boutiques, and historical sites such as the Town Hall and Mus-egg Wall (which is partially intact and still features several climbable towers for sweeping city views) fill this area.
- Take a Boat Trip in Lake Lucerne: Cruising Lake Lucerne is definitely one of the most enjoyable things to do during your trip circus. Many cruises have guided tours, so you can sit back and soak in the scenery of the lake, mountains, and nearby villages.
- Head to Mount Pilates or Mount Rigi: For the more adventurous, Lucerne is an excellent spot for day trips to Mount Pilatus and Mount Rigi. You can go up these mountains on a delightful cable car or cogwheel train that provides stunning views, hiking trails, and possibilities for winter sports. Mount Rigi, the “Queen of the Mountains,” is reputed for breathtaking 360-degree views across the Swiss Alps and Lake Lucerne.
Final Word: The Cities of Europe Are Just the Beginning
Europe is easy on the eyes, but it has a lot of cities where the magic doesn’t end there. Each day’s trip reveals a different aspect of the continent, from fairy tale towns and notable sites to stunning scenery. From visiting a historic castle to wandering among the remains of an ancient site. Top 15 days Europe tours allow you to experience more than just a delightful getaway. You can immerse yourself in the daily life of another culture.