3 Month Europe Itinerary: The Ultimate Guide

Europe
Written By Jessica Bergin

Dip your toes in the water with this 3 Month Europe Itinerary! Fringed with fairytale-like forays, hill-perched castles and divine coastlines, Europe is a place that's on everyone's bucket list. With so much to see, you might be wondering if you can travel to Europe in 3 months.

amsterdam is a stop in this europe itinerary

Whether it’s the coast, the culture or the candy-coloured cities that entice you, Europe is a destination that’s dowsed with diversity. This 3 month itinerary invites you to take a step inside some of the world’s most coveted sojourns. And beneath the surface, you’ll simmer down what it is that makes this place so special. 

Within this timeframe, you’ll be able to dabble in the delectable cuisine scene, mosey around the myriad monuments and uncover a more authentic side to the archetypically tourist-tainted regions.

colourful streets in burano in italy

3 Month Europe Trip: The Ultimate Guide

Spain, Italy, Croatia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Montenegro, Albania, Czech Republic, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Moldova, Romania, Bulgaria, Turkey & Greece

Kick off your 3 months in Europe in sun-soaked Spain, before popping over to northern Italy. After a week of indulging in la dolce vita, make your way down to storybook-like Croatia.

Discover the dazzling diversity in Bosnia & Herzegovina and uncover personality-packed Montenegro. Venture off the road less travelled in Albania and traverse the terracotta-tiled rooftops of the Czech Republic.

Cross the border into the fairytale-infused forays in Austria, step into the scene in Slovakia and dabble in the delights of Hungary. Meander through Moldova, discover Dracula’s hometown in Romania and explore the ethereal castles in Bulgaria.

Wind through the whimsical world of Turkey and wrap things up in the show-stopping islands of Greece.

Week 7 

  • Day 43-46: Vienna, Austria

  • Day 47-49: Hallstatt, Austria

Week 8 

  • Day 50-52: Bratislava & High Tatras & Bojnice Castle, Slovakia

  • Day 53-56: Budapest, Hungary

Week 9 

  • Day 57-59: Chisinau & Orheiul Vechi, Moldova

  • Day 60-63: Bucharest & Bran Castle, Romania

Week 10

  • Day 64-65: Brasov, Romania

  • Day 66-67: Sighisoara, Romania

  • Day 68-70: Sofia, Bulgaria

Week 11

  • Day 71-73: Varna, Bulgaria

  • Day 74-77: Istanbul, Turkey

Week 12

  • Day 78-79: Cappadocia, Turkey

  • Day 80: Pamukkale, Turkey

Week 13

  • Day 81-84: Athens, Greece 4 Days

  • Day 85-87: Santorini, Greece

  • Day 88-90: Crete, Greece

Week 1

  • Day 1-4: Barcelona, Spain

  • Day 5-7: Valencia, Spain

Week 2

  • Day 8-10: Mallorca, Spain

  • Day 11-12: Milan, Italy

  • Day 13-14: Cinque Terre, Italy

Week 3 

  • Day 15-16: Venice, Italy

  • Day 17-19: Zagreb, Croatia

  • Day 20-21: Split, Croatia

Week 4 

  • Day 22-24: Dubrovnik, Croatia

  • Day 25-26: Mostar, Bosnia & Herzegovina

  • Day 27-28: Kotor & Perast, Montenegro

Week 5 

  • Day 29-30: Podgorica, Montenegro

  • Day 31-33: Tirana, Albania

  • Day 34-36: Albanian Riviera & Ksamil Islands, Albania

Week 6

  • Day 37-40: Prague, Czech Republic

  • Day 41-42: Česky Krumlov, Czech Republic  

 

Day 1-4: Barcelona, Spain 

Begin your 3 month Europe itinerary on a high note! After touching down in Spain, make your way into the captivatingly cosmopolitan city of Barcelona.

barcelona is a highlight of this 3 month europe itinerary

Nestled in the northeastern corner of the country, this is a city that deserves your full attention.

Spend the next four days immersed in the intricately-detailed architecture, eat like a local in the best restaurants and absorb all the energy of these atmospheric streets.

Wander astray in the ancient Old Tower, shop in the best vintage stores and keep it all budget-friendly with a Barcelona Sightseeing Pass.

See the splash of colours in Park Güell, watch an Andalusian-inspired flamenco show and venture beyond the city bounds on the best day trips from Barcelona. Before you get the ball rolling, check out these 13 Things to Know Before Visiting Barcelona, Spain.

Top Things to Do in Barcelona:

Where to Stay in Barcelona:

Day 5-7: Valencia, Spain

After delighting in the colourful contrasts of Barcelona, it’s time to make your way down the eastern coastline. Catch a flight or hop on a high-speed train to Valencia.

Dowsed with a diverse interplay of contemporary and ancient, Valencia is home to one-of-a-kind experiences. Meander through the modern museums and alley-woven Old Town, soak up the sun from the beach and relish in the flavours of the country’s most authentic paella. Bask in the beauty of one of the 12 Treasures of Spain, the City of the Arts and Sciences or spice things up with a day trip to Albufera, Alicante or Benidorm.

Depending on your travel style and preferences, you could consider swapping three days in Valencia with Madrid, Seville or Granada.

Top Things to Do in Valencia:

Where to Stay in Valencia:

Day 8-10: Mallorca, Spain 

Following a fruitful few days along Spain’s east coast, catch a ferry or hop on a flight over to the Balearic Islands. After arriving on the biggest island, Mallorca, spend the next three days getting immersed in this Mediterranean mecca.

Encapsulating by misty mountain hamlets, once-pirate-ridden coves and crystal-clear beaches, there’s undoubtedly something here for every type of traveller. Admire the architecture in the character-packed centre, quench your appetite with the palatable plates and explore the natural side on a speedboat tour of Albufera des Grau. Don’t leave the island without splashing around on the best beaches in Mallorca!

mallorca is a part of this europe itinerary

Dive into the water on a snorkelling safari, see it all on a horseback riding tour or keep it calm in a mountain hideaway. Find out the Best Places to Stay in Mallorca and check out the top things in Ibiza and Menorca.

This part of the 3 month Europe trip is ideal for sun, sand and sea, and even if you’re travelling during the shoulder seasons, you’ll still find plenty to do.

Top Things to Do in Mallorca:

Where to Stay in Mallorca:

Day 11-12: Milan, Italy 

After a few days of frolicking around Spain's Balearic Islands, it's time to shake things up in Italy. Cross the border and make your way into the country’s fashion capital, Milan.

Scattered with arcade-woven streets, luxury shopping opportunities and awe-inspiring architecture, Milan makes for a perfect introduction to northern Italian living. Relish your tastebuds making pizza & gelato, stand in awe at Da Vinci’s Last Supper and see the city from the dome of the Milan Cathedral. Spend an evening in the famous Teatro alla Scala, discover the history-drenched Sforzesco Castle and keep classy on a cruise around Lake Como.

Top Things to Do in Milan:

Where to Stay in Milan:

Day 13-14: Cinque Terre, Italy 

After watching time tick by in Milan, now's the time to mosey on down to the coastline. Hop on a high-speed train to the candy-coloured, cliff-hugging towns in Cinque Terre.

cinque terre is a stop in this 3 month europe itinerary

In this chunk of your 3 month European road trip, you’ll have the chance to frolic around the five former fishing villages, Manarola, Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia and Riomaggiore.

Replete with a rivetingly rich tapestry of charismatic culture, authentic cuisine and mind-boggling sites, you’re sure to be on the edge of your seat.

You’ve only got 90 days in Europe, and this part of the itinerary will certainly have you hooked for more.

Top Things to Do in Cinque Terre:

Where to Stay in Cinque Terre:

Day 15-16: Venice, Italy 

In the wake of your third week, wrap things up in Italy. Jump aboard a train to one of the country’s most notorious cities, canal-carved Venice.

Melded with maze-like streets, vibrant-coloured homes and an array of astounding architecture, Venice lives up to all the hype. Discover this destination’s deep history, dabble in the traditional glass workshops and peruse the never-ending, picture-perfect stores. Cross over the famous Rialto Bridge, step inside the Ca-Rezzonico Museum and strut your stuff through St. Mark’s Square.

If it’s your first time travelling to Italy, you could consider adding in a few days in Rome or the Amalfi Coast.

Top Things to Do in Venice:

Where to Stay in Venice:

Day 17-19: Zagreb, Croatia 

After exploring the enchanting realms of Italy, make your way across the border and into Croatia. Catch a flight or an overnight bus and kick things off in the capital city, Zagreb.

Woven with a wealth of wonder-filled sites and age-old ruins, this city is steeped deep in pleasurable pursuits. This part of the 3 month Europe itinerary invites you to take a look at the hefty history, verdant national parks and captivating cultural gems on offer in Zagreb.

Additionally, could head down to the coastline earlier and see all of Zagreb's highlights in one day on the hop-on hop-off bus. There are many things you can’t miss in Croatia, and if you find yourself craving more, you could consider extending this leg of the trip with this 7-Day Croatia Itinerary.

Top Things to Do in Zagreb:

Where to Stay in Zagreb:

Day 20-21: Split, Croatia

After three days in Croatia’s capital, hop on a train or catch a bus down to Split.

Lapped with turquoise-coloured beaches, traditional gastronomy and a history-ridden Old Town, Split is a must-see. Swing past Diocletian’s Palace, go for a splash in the Krka Waterfalls and tick off all the highlights with these Top Things to do in Split. Make the most out of your time here with this guide on the Things You Need to Know Before Visiting Croatia.

Top Things to Do in Split:

Where to Stay in Split:

Day 22-24: Dubrovnik, Croatia   

Following your foray into Split, this 3 months in Europe itinerary is about to take a turn. Hop on a bus and spend the next three days discovering Dubrovnik.

dubrovnik is a highlight in this europe trip

Etched with ethereal landscapes, towering city walls and ancient ruins aplenty, you’ll most likely be left in a state of awe.

Wander astray in the cobbled streets, hit the heights on a sunset zipline experience and make your way out to the Elafiti Islands.

Sip local beer at a cliffside bar, head up the hundred-and-something steps and don’t miss the Best Things to do in Dubrovnik.

Top Things to Do in Dubrovnik:

Where to Stay in Dubrovnik:

Day 25-26: Mostar, Bosnia & Herzegovina

Succeeding an adventure-packed week in Croatia, cross over the border into Bosnia & Herzegovina. Jump on a bus and spend two days in one of the country’s most stellar sojourns, Mostar.

Crowned with cobblestone streets and time-worn stone buildings, Mostar is melded with historical, cultural and traditional influences. From the trickling Neretva River to the symbolic bridge, this town looks like it’s been ripped straight out of a fairytale book. 

Top Things to Do in Mostar:

  • Stroll over the UNESCO-listed Mostar Old Bridge

  • Bathe in a traditional Turkish Hammam

  • Shop for local delicacies in the Old Bazaar

  • Check out the Halebija Tower

  • Discover the Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque

Where to Stay in Mostar:

Day 27-28: Kotor & Perast, Montenegro

After meandering through Mostar, move into Montenegro’s historic heart. Catch a bus across the border to uncover the unparalleled towns of Kotor and Perast.

This next slice of your 3 month Europe itinerary is quite unique. Most people don't even know where Montenegro is! Brimming with hilltop-hugging homes, ancient cathedrals and crystal-clear waters, you can bet your bottom dollar that Kotor and Perast are worth the visit.

Pop by St. Tryphon’s Cathedral in Kotor, climb to the peak of Lovćen Mountain and taste as much traditional cuisine as you can get. Sunbake in the summer heat at Perast Beach, visit Smekja Palace and swing past Saint George Island in Perast.  

Top Things to Do in Kotor & Perast:

Where to Stay near Kotor & Perast:

Day 29-30: Podgorica, Montenegro

Hop on a bus and spend the next two days nestled in the northern part of the Zeta Valley in Podgorica.

As the capital city of Montenegro, you can expect plenty of pleasure-packed pursuits.

Pop by the ochre-coloured Independence Square, sit next to the Old Ribnice River Bridge and uncover the ancient ruins in Duklja. Admire the colourful contrast from the Shkodra Lake, lock lips with a njegusi prosciutto plate and say cheers over a glass of rakija.

Top Things to Do in Podgorica:

  • Endeavour out to the cave-carved Ostrog Monastery

  • Embark on a day trip to Durmitor National Park

  • Stop by the Millenium Bridge

  • Check out the Orthodox Temple of Christ’s Resurrection

Where to Stay in Podgorica:

Day 31-33: Tirana, Albania

Following four weeks in Spain, Italy, Croatia, Bosnia & Herzegovina and Montenegro, you’ll be moving into the second leg of the itinerary. In this next stop of your 3 month Europe trip, step foot inside Albania’s capital, Tirana.

Straddling lively squares, myriad museums and a buzzing bar and dining scene, you’ll get the chance to soak up city life. Dive into the National Historical Museum, waltz around the Grand Park of Tirana and head underground into BUNK-ART.  

Top Things to Do in Tirana:

Where to Stay in Tirana:

Day 34-36: Albanian Riviera & Ksamil Islands, Albania 

beach in the albanian riviera

Put the cherry on top of your time in Albania with a few days by the coastline. Catch a bus down to the Albanian Riviera and Ksamil Islands.

Boasting bliss-inducing beaches, unbridled UNESCO sites and postcard-worthy villages, this part of the country will leave you feeling satisfied.

Soak up the Mediterranean sunshine as you take a dip in the Blue Eye, get active in the Llogara National Park and feast your eyes at the Canyon of Gjipe.

Top Things to Do in Albanian Riviera & Ksamil Islands:

  • Bathe in the turquoise-blue waters of the Ksamil Islands

  • Check out the Butrint Archaeological Site & National Park

  • Spend a day exploring Himara town

  • Go for a dip at Gjipe Beach

  • Get deep underground in Sarandë

Where to Stay in Albanian Riviera & Ksamil Islands:

Day 37-40: Prague, Czech Republic

In this next phase of your 3 months in Europe, it’s time to head inland. Catch a flight over to the Czech Republic’s capital city, Prague.

Engulfed by emerald-coloured hilltops and teeming with terracotta-tiled rooftops, Prague is a historical melting pot. Mixing medieval and modern into one, weird and wacky combination, this city is nothing short of unique. Admire the ample Gothic and Renaissance architecture, peer down from the canal-hanging bridges and get lost in Prague Castle. See all the highlights on a bike tour,  stop for a beer in the Old Town Square and peer up at the Prague Astronomical Clock.

Top Things to Do in Prague:

Where to Stay in Prague:

Day 41-42: Česky Krumlov, Czech Republic

Following four days in the capital, hop on a train and head down south. Frolic around the fairytale-infused streets of Česky Krumlov.

Appreciate the blend of colours, and mosey among the medieval buildings and spend an afternoon in the Old Town. Visit the State Castle & Chateau Česky Krumlov, head out on the water in a boat and check out the view from Seminární Zahrada.

Top Things to Do in Česky Krumlov:

Where to Stay in Česky Krumlov:

Day 43-46: Vienna, Austria

After exploring the Czech Republic, hop on a train to Austria’s capital. 90 days in Europe may not seem like enough time, especially when heading into cities like Vienna.

Enclosed by an intriguing fusion of metropolitan and medieval, Vienna is a traveller’s treasure trove. This part of the 3 month Europe road trip itinerary will wind you through resplendent palaces, grandiose churches and meticulously manicured gardens. Listen to the harmonies of a Mozart performance in the Golden Hall, discover the Schönbrunn Palace & Gardens and pop out on a day trip to Hallstatt & Alpine Peaks.

Top Things to Do in Vienna:

Where to Stay in Vienna:

Day 47-49: Hallstatt, Austria

After succeeding four days in the country's capital, it's time to hop on a train and venture outwards. Take a step back from buzzing city life and enjoy three days in the riveting mountain retreat of Hallstatt.

hallstatt is a stop in this europe trip

Home to soaring mountain peaks, an emerald-coloured lake and plenty of serene countryside charm, there’s a huge haul of awe-worthy attractions.

Head deep underground into the mines, peruse the rugged Alpine landscape and take a trip up the famed sky ladder, Grosser Donnerkogel.  

Top Things to Do in Hallstatt:

Where to Stay in Hallstatt:

Day 50-52: Bratislava & High Tatras & Bojnice Castle, Slovakia

Crank up your 3 month Europe itinerary as you escape the idyllic mountains. Cross over the border into Slovakia’s capital city, Bratislava.

Wander about in the array of churches, castles and peculiar finds in the city centre. Ignite the spirited explorer within as you venture out to the High Tatras mountain range and get enchanted by the Bojnice Castle. Walk through Michael’s Gate, swing past St. Martin’s Cathedral and feast your eyes on the hilltop-hugging Bratislava Castle.

Top Things to Do in Bratislava:

Where to Stay in Bratislava:

Day 53-56: Budapest, Hungary 

After dabbling in the delights of Slovakia, hop on a high-speed train to Hungary’s capital, Budapest.

Spend the next four days waltzing around the world of attractions, admiring the Art Nouveau architecture and sipping traditional beer in the centuries-old bars.

Bathe like a local in the steamy open-air baths, discover the castles and tick off the bucket-list monuments from your bucket list. Sample the country’s top grapes on an Etyek wine tour and sit by the river and watch the sunset over the Hungarian Parliament Building.

Top Things to Do in Budapest:

Where to Stay in Budapest:

Day 57-59: Chisinau & Orhei, Moldova 

Bring your second month to a close in Europe’s hidden gem, Moldova. From Budapest, board a flight to the capital city, Chisinau.

Pinned for its picture-perfect parks, intricately-detailed monuments and low-key vibes, Moldova makes for a pleasant foray. Step away from the bigger and busier European cities as you scale the Soviet-style architecture. In this chunk of the 3 month Europe trip, dive into the rich tapestry of history, culture and cuisine. Stop by the National History Museum of Moldova, take a break in Stephen the Great Central Park and walk through the Triumphal Arch.  

Top Things to Do in Chisinau & Orhei:

  • Sip on local’s favourites at the Cricova Winery and Capriana

  • Get a dose of greenery in the Cathedral Park

  • See the National Museum of Ethnography

  • Stop by the Cathedral of Christ’s Nativity 

Where to Stay in Chisinau & Orhei:

Day 60-63: Bucharest & Bran Castle, Romania  

As you make your way into the third and final month of your Europe itinerary, we’re going to slow things down a notch. Catch an overnight train or board a flight to Romania’s capital, Bucharest.

Spend the next three days dabbling in this Eastern European gem. Watch a performance in the Romanian Athenaeum, enjoy a picnic in the Gradina Cismigiu park and swing past the Parliament Palace. See fine art in the National Museum of Art, lock lips with authentic Romanian cuisine and step inside the eerie Bran Castle in the Carpathian Mountains.

Top Things to Do in Bucharest & Bran Castle:

Where to Stay in Bucharest & Bran Castle:

Day 64-65: Brasov, Romania 

After a few days in the capital city, catch a high-speed train to one of Transylvania’s top getaways, Brasov.

Spend the next three days unplugging from the hustle and bustle as you immerse yourself in Brasov’s natural beauty. Take a walk through the misty mountain tops, kick up the heat on the trekking trails and visit a handful of the best castles. Enjoy a slow morning coffee in Council Square, step inside the Black church and peep up at the White Tower. Hike up Tampa Mountain, visit the Casa Sfatului and swing past Beth Israel Synagogue.

brasov city views in europe

Top Things to Do in Brasov:

Where to Stay in Brasov:

Day 66-67: Sighisoara, Romania  

Following a laid-back few days in Brasov, we’re going to take a step into Dracula’s hometown. Catch a train into the colourful Romanian municipality of Sighisoara.

When spending 3 months in Europe, it’s crucial to have a mix of big cities, small towns and natural escapes. This next leg of the journey is quaint and perfectly fit for recharging your batteries.

Meander your way through the pastel-coloured Sighisoara Citadel, reach the top of the Clock Tower and check out the famous Covered Stairway and lock lips with a beverage in the collection of cellars.

Top Things to Do in Sighisoara:

Where to Stay in Sighisoara:

Day 68-70: Sofia, Bulgaria  

Succeeding an easy-going week in Romania, get a flight to Bulgaria’s capital city, Sofia.

Spend the next three days watching time tick by from the lively plazas, captivating cathedrals and sumptuous palaces. Check out Rila Monastery & Boyana Church, pop into the National Palace of Culture and stop by the Regional History Museum. Get stuck in the delicious cuisine scene, and don’t leave without trying moussaka and sarmi.

Top Things to Do in Sofia:

Where to Stay in Sofia:

Day 71-73: Varna, Bulgaria  

After basking in the capital city’s gems, hop on an overnight train and slow things down in Varna.

In this leg of the 3 month Europe itinerary, you’ll catch a glimpse of Bulgaria’s natural splendour. From the stately rocky outcrops to the verdant-fringed forests, you’ll even discover hidden gems along the way. Set your sights on the cave-carved Aladzha Monastery, hang out in the gardens at Primorski-Park and listen to the ocean breeze from the seafront.

Top Things to Do in Varna:

Where to Stay in Varna:

Day 74-77: Istanbul, Turkey 

istanbul is a part of this 3 month europe itinerary

From Varna, board a flight or set up camp on an overnight bus to Turkey’s capital city, Istanbul.

Flaunting an east meets west fusion, this city is fringed with everything from Ottoman to Byzantine finds.

Spend the next four days frolicking around the perplexing palaces, discovering the delights and quenching your appetite with local cuisine.

Shop for colourful prints and handmade lanterns in the Grand Bazaar, visit the Topkapi Palace Museum and stroll through the dim-lit Basilica Cistern.

Top Things to Do in Istanbul:

Where to Stay in Istanbul:

Day 78-79: Cappadocia, Turkey

In the wake of the next day, prepare to up the ante on your 3 month European road trip. Head out to the otherworldy mountains of Cappadocia.

Harbouring a rich tapestry of natural pursuits, this mind-boggling landscape will leave you speechless. Wind through the ancient Uchisar Castle, visit the Zelve Open Air Museum and head deep underground to the Kaymakli or Derinkuyu Underground City. Stroll through the verdant Ihlara Valley, feast your eyes on the peculiar Fairy Chimneys and spend an afternoon in Göreme.

Top Things to Do in Cappadocia:

Where to Stay in Cappadocia:

Day 80: Pamukkale, Turkey 

This next destination is optional, and considering the journey time, you may prefer to have an extra night in Cappadocia.

Woven with a wealth of saline white pools that hold heavenly turquoise waters, Pamukkale is certainly worth the trip. Go for a splash in the Cleopatra Antique Pools, enjoy the scenery in the Travertines of Pamukkale Nature Reserve and stop by the Pamukkale Amphitheatre.

Top Things to Do in Pamukkale:

Where to Stay in Pamukkale:

Day 81-84: Athens, Greece 

As you bring things to an end in Turkey, cross over the border and get ready to shake things. Jump aboard a flight to Greece’s notorious capital city, Athens.

Your 3 months in Europe itinerary would not be complete without a trip to Greece. Period. Athens is arrayed with a world of history-woven streets, ancient archaeological ruins and a culture you’ll fall in love with. Spend the next four days frolicking around the famous Acropolis of Athens & Acropolis Museum, step into the Ancient Agora of Athens and get gobsmacked by the Temple of Olympian Zeus. Discover the time-sculpted Parthenon and replenish your senses with classic Greek food. Saganaki cheese is a must! 

Top Things to Do in Athens:

Where to Stay in Athens:

Day 85-87: Santorini, Greece 

santorini is a highlight in this 3 month europe itinerary

From Athens, hop on a ferry or catch a flight to one of the most famous Greek islands, Santorini.

Woven with whitewashed villages, death-defying clifftops and verdant vineyards, this island is a must-see in any Europe itinerary.

Bathe in the Volcanic Hot Springs on a cruise, get out and about on a South Sea kayaking tour and taste Greek food on a BBQ on a catamaran cruise.  

Go scuba diving in the volcanic crater, mix things up on a horse riding trip and don’t leave without exploring the quieter sides of the island.

Top Things to Do in Santorini:

Where to Stay in Santorini:

Day 88-90: Crete, Greece

By this point, 90 days have flown by. At the close of your 3 month Europe itinerary, catch a ferry over to Crete.

Blooming with bliss-inducing beaches, sheltered coves and alley-woven old towns, Crete feels like a world away from Santorini and Athens. Spend a day in the crystal-clear Balos Lagoon & Gramvousa, visit the Minoan ruins on a Land Rover safari and endeavour out to Dia Island on a sailboat cruise.

 Eat as much Greek salad, halloumi cheese and lamb as you can get on a food tastings tour in Heraklion and sweat it all out on a trekking excursion at Samaria Gorge. Make the most of your last few days with this guide on Where to Stay in Crete, Greece. If you want to extend this leg of the trip, take a peek at this 10-day Greek Islands Itinerary.

Top Things to Do in Crete:

Where to Stay in Crete:

Best Time To Visit Europe

From the snow-capped Alpine slopes to the Mediterranean coastline, Europe has got it going on, year-round. Crowned with cultural events and seasonal festivities, planning a trip can involve a lot of time and effort.

people at the beach in italy in europe

One of the best times to visit Europe is during the shoulder seasons of April to May or late September to October.

During this period, you can embark on outdoor endeavours, bask in the pleasant weather and enjoy more affordable accommodation, flights and activities. If you’re a backpacker, budget traveller or someone who likes to steer clear of the crowds, this is the top time to visit.

I’d recommend this 3 month Europe itinerary to begin during the shoulder season of April.

During the summer season, June to September, Europe comes into full boar. The sunshine beckons a ray of light on sleepy coastal villages and bucolic mountain hideaways.

Considering it’s peak season, you can expect to battle big crowds, and big prices too. 

Europe’s winter, December to February, is ideal for snow activities and for basking in the iconic festive season. The Christmas markets are a show-stopper in Europe, especially in countries like Germany and Belgium.

If you’re going to be spending 3 months in Europe in winter, be prepared for a variety of conditions across the continent.

How Long Should You Spend in Europe

You might be thinking, 3 months sounds like a long time. But Rome wasn’t built in a day, and you can’t see it all in a day either. The same goes for the rest of Europe. You can spend your time scavenging the web for an all-inclusive 90-day itinerary, but, the reality is that you can’t see it all within this timeframe.

When thinking about how to spend 3 months in Europe, you need to consider your travel style. Are you looking for an action-packed itinerary or do you prefer to be spontaneous with loose planning? This 3 month Europe itinerary could serve as a base for your trip, and with a little mixing and matching, you'll end up with something fit for you.

How to Get Around Europe

If you’re wondering how to plan 3 months in Europe, you need to know one thing. This place is nothing short of magical, but the transport scene can vary greatly. In this itinerary, you’ll be able to get around without many hassles. From flights and ferries to trains and buses, you’ll get to experience a mix of it all.

Bus

Catching the bus is one of the best budget-friendly options available. You’ll be able to reach capital cities and smaller towns, but it will take a lot longer than taking the train or catching a flight. If you’re a backpacker, you can save on accommodation by booking overnight buses too. One of the most popular companies in Europe is Flixbus, and you’ll be able to rely on this in most destinations. Before you book, compare times, prices and routes on Busbud.

train in switzerland

Train

Europe is home to a reliable and well-developed train network. With frequent connections between major cities like Barcelona, Paris, Rome and Milan, you’ll be able to save on time.

If you’re booking a multi-destination trip, opt for an Interrail pass (European residents) and a Eurail pass (non-European residents). Before you book, also check out Omio or Trainline to weigh up your options.  

Aeroplane

In most countries in Europe, catching a flight is the fastest way to get around. Some of the continent’s best budget airlines are Vueling, Volotea, Ryanair, Easy Jet, Wizz Air, AirBaltic and Norwegian Air.

To keep things pocket-friendly, book your flights using Skyscanner at least 3 to 4 months in advance.

When travelling, if your flight is delayed (for more than 3 hours) or cancelled, be sure to check out Compensair to see if you can get your money back.

Car

Hiring a car is one of the most scenic ways to get around. Not only will you be able to go at your own pace, but you’ll be free to explore off the beaten track.

If you’re planning a 3 month European road trip, a campervan could be an ideal option. Just remember that each country has its own set of rules and regulations, so make sure you’re familiar with the norms before you go.

Average Cost for 3 Months in Europe

When planning a 3 month Europe trip budget, the costs can vary depending on your travel preferences. Here are the estimated costs for 90 days:

Average

The average budget for a 3-month trip to Europe is around $8,000 to $9,000. This includes accommodation, flights and transport, plus eating out most nights.

Budget

The average backpacking cost is around $6,000. This includes flights, buses, a shared dorm room and meals inside your hostel or accommodation.

Luxury

The average 3-month budget for luxury travel in Europe would be over $18,000. This price includes five-star hotels, gourmet restaurants, flights and private tours.

How to Stay in Europe for 3 Months – The Schengen Zone

The Schengen Zone, you may or may not have heard of it. Referring to 26 European countries, the Schengen area is limited to a 90-day limit for most travellers. So, what's the 90-day rule in Europe? The Schengen tourist visa allows foreigners can visit for a maximum of 3 months within 6 months.

Best Travel Tips for Europe

  • Master the art of packing light so you can avoid the extra baggage fees (notorious with budget airlines)

  • Bring a universal travel adapter or converter with you

  • Watch out for the different currencies

  • For a more authentic experience, travel during the shoulder seasons

  • Keep things pocket-friendly with the Milan Pass,  Budapest Card, Vienna Card, Barcelona Card or Prague Pass

  • Get prepared with an International Drivers License if you’re a non-EU resident,

  • Watch out for pickpockets in the major cities

  • Before you book anything, brush up on this guide on how to score cheap flights

  • Save money in the big cities with free walking tours

  • Brush up on some of the local lingo – hello, thank you and goodbye can make all the difference

  • Download a digital SIM card for your Europe trip. Don’t miss this full guide on the Best eSIMs for Europe.

  • Book all of your flights and accommodation at least 3-4 months in advance

  • Have peace of mind with travel insurance

  • Research and plan a travel budget and set up a savings plan

  • Buy local products from markets rather than chain stores

Planning The Trip of a Lifetime?

Whether you want to splash around in the idyllic Greek Islands, mosey along the Mediterranean coast or climb the mountains in Central Europe, there is a lot to see and do. If you’re wondering what is the best length of time for a European trip, but you’re not exactly set on 3 months, you’re in luck! You could mix it up with 2 weeks or 1 month, easily. For more inspiration, check out these Europe itineraries:

valencia market in europe

FAQS

Is 3 months in Europe enough?

3 months in Europe offers visitors a chance to explore the top travel destinations and uncover hidden gems. With a 3 month Europe itinerary, you can dive deep beyond the surface and get a feel for what makes this part of the world so special. You can take your time and enjoy a more slow-paced way of travelling.

How to spend 4 months in Europe?

The Schengen Area is a group of 26 countries in Europe. The rule states that visitors can spend a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period within the Schengen countries. Usually, if you overstay this limit, there’s the possibility of deportation, a re-entry ban or a fine. Here are some ways you can legally spend more than 3 months in Europe:

  • Find a job in Europe

  • Work as a freelancer

  • Apply for citizenship

  • Get a long-term tourist visa

  • Get a Schengen Visa extension

How many months in advance should I plan a trip to Europe?

The best way to see Europe is to plan a trip at least 3 to 6 months in advance. When it comes to airfares and accommodation, the sooner you book, the more affordable it will be. You can book activities and transport within at least 1 to 3 months of your trip.

How much should you set aside for 3 weeks in Europe?

The cost for a 3 week Europe trip can differ according to the desired destination, preferred travel style and number of travellers. Here are the average costs for a backpacker, average and luxury trip to Europe.

  • Average: €2000

  • Backpacker/Budget: €1500

  • Luxury: €4500+

Why Visit Europe?

Flaunting a fascinating tapestry of scenery, cities and events, Europe is as diverse as it gets.

Whether you want to frolic around the fields in Slovakia, dance flamenco in Spain or drink authentic wine in Greece, there’s seriously something for everybody. Before you get going, save this 3 Month Europe Itinerary!

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Jessica Bergin https://www.jessbergin.com
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