Planning your first trip to a new region is exciting but it can be a daunting task, especially one as big and full of interesting and exciting places as Europe. With limited time it can be hard picking which places you should see this time and which ones might be better left for next time.
There are a few factors that I have considered when putting together this first timers one month Europe itinerary.
Firstly, this itinerary is about giving you enough time in each destination to see the main sights but also have some time to just soak it all in.
Secondly, I considered logistics and how easy it is to get from one place to another. While Europe has many transport options that all make it simple to get around, when you only have one month you don’t want to be spending a week of that getting from place to place.
Finally, I considered popularity. A lot of people are reluctant to visit the popular places because they can be overcrowded and a touch touristy. Me on the other hand, I like to embrace it because really these places are popular for a reason, they are awesome!
It is nice to get off the beaten path from time to time but I believe that most people visiting Europe for the first time want to experience the places and sights everyone is talking about.
This itinerary is by no means comprehensive, but what it does give you is an overview of what I think you shouldn’t miss on your first visit to Europe. Feel free to use this as a guide, or a starting point and plan from there by adding more stops or removing any places you don’t fancy.
Transport
In Europe I have travelled by bus, plane and train all at different times and for different reasons. For this itinerary and for the easiest and most convenient way to travel, I suggest using the extensive network of trains.
Why Trains?
I’m a big advocate for train travel. And while it isn’t always the cheapest mode of transport, it is usually the most convenient. The train will usually pick you up in the centre of a city and drop you in the centre of the next.
The biggest pluses to train travel for me are how comfortable and scenic it is. Most trains come in 1st and 2nd class with 2nd class being the equivalent of 1st class in most other parts of the world. Big picture windows and on some trains, almost entirely glass compartments, help you take in the view while you’re relaxing in your comfortable air-conditioned seat.
High speed trains also make train travel in Europe the quickest way to get around on a lot of the routes. Some trains travel at over 300km/hr!
Tickets
For the itinerary below getting a rail plus is the most cost-effective and simplest way to go in terms of tickets. In most cases the pass is all you will need to board any train (except overnight sleepers and high-speed trains) at any time of day giving you the flexibility to move onto your next destination when the time suits you most.
Cost
Youth - 2nd Class 12-25 years | Adult - 1st Class 26 + years | Adult Saver - 1st Class 26 + years travelling in a group of 2 or more |
|
10 Days in 2 Months | $694.00 | $1,107.00 | $943.00 |
15 Days in 2 Months | $907.00 | $1,450.00 | $1,233.00 |
Prices in the above table are per person in Australian Dollars and correct at time of publishing. Children travelling with 2 or more adults travel free.
10 or 15 days in 2 months basically means that you have 10 or 15 travel days over a 2 month period. A travel day is a 24 hour period. Say you jump on a train at 9:00am one day, your travel day will end at 9:00am the next day. On each of those travel days you’re allowed unlimited connections.
With the itinerary below, a 10 days in 2 months pass covers all 10 travel days outlined below. If you are adding any more days, then the 15 days in 2 months pass will be required. If you are cutting some stops out, you may need to look into whether point to point tickets may be a cheaper option.
One thing to be aware of is that an extra seat reservation and fee is required on sleeper and high-speed trains. The agency where you buy your pass (more on that below) will be able to sort out those reservations for you.
Where to Buy
European rail passes are not available to buy in Europe, so it is necessary that you are organised and buy them before you leave home.
Visit the Rail Europe website in your country using the links below to purchase tickets and rail passes.
One Month Europe Itinerary
Paris – 4 Days
Things to See & Do in Paris
Paris is the perfect place to get an art, culture and food fix. Check out some of the best museums in the world, The Louvre and d’Orsay to name just two. Take a ride up the iconic Eiffel Tower for views over the city. Cathedral lovers will love Notre Dame, Saint Chapelle and Sacre Coeur. For a bit of people watching, take a stroll down the Champs Elysee or through the Tulleries and Luxembourg Gardens. And why not add a half day trip out to visit the Palace of Versailles.
Hop-on-Hop-off bus tour – see it all in 1, 2 or 3 days.
Louvre Museum – pre-book and skip the queues!
Illuminations Cruise – see the city of lights at its best.
Arc De Triomphe – don’t waste time in line.
Eiffel Tower – priority access to the top.
Palace of Versailles – tour the palace that trumps them all.
Where to Stay
Budget
Located in the Latin Quarter, close to Luxembourg Gardens and steps from the metro. Free wi-fi, breakfast and laundry facilities. Great budget option!
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Mid-Range

Located in a pedestrian only street, just steps away from everything Paris has to offer. Air-conditioned rooms comfortably furnished rooms with private facilities and free breakfast.
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Luxury
This Paris icon is located right in the heart of o the city. It features impeccable rooms with onsite restaurants, fitness centre and spa. Enjoy the hotels stunning gardens.
Check availability, prices and book this hotel

Or why not book an Airbnb stay. Use this link to get up to $45AUD off.
What to Eat
Croissants for breakfast, baguettes with fresh cheese and cured meats for lunch and warming soups, casseroles and steak frittes for dinner. And then there’s the sweets. Delicate macarons, eclairs and other French pastries can be found in the most amazing smelling shops. Or pick up a crêpe smothered in nutella chocolate spread from vendors on the street.
Bruges – 2 Days
Travel Time
Paris to Bruges on a direct train service takes about two and a half hours. More frequent services run with one change in Brussels and take about the same amount of time.
Things to See & Do in Bruges
Take a wander around the Old Town, through the Main Market Square, and down the cobblestone streets past beautiful medieval architecture. Cruise the romantic canals past some of the city’s most romantic spots. Climb the steps of the Belfry for views over the city. Visit the Church of Our Lady to see Michelangelo’s Madonna and Child.
Beer and Chocolate Tasting Tour – 3 hours with a private guide tasting Belgium’s best beer and chocolate.
Waffle Making Workshop – learn how to prepare, bake and enjoy a delicious Belgian Waffle.
Bruges Private Highlights and Hidden Gems Tour – enjoy this private three hour tour seeing the best of Bruges.
Bruges Electric Scooter Tour – see Bruges on an electric scooter with a private guide.
Where to Stay
Budget
Just minutes walk to the market square. Comfortably furnished with each room being individually themed. Enjoy complimentary breakfast in the morning.
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Mid-Range

A few minutes walk from the market square. This hotel has a terrace, free wi-fi and on-site bar. Rooms come fully equipped and are comfortably furnished.
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Luxury
This elegant boutique B&B is just steps from the centre of Bruges. The luxuriously appointed rooms are compliments by free wi-fi, breakfast and a garden for the exclusive use of guests.
Check availability, prices and book this hotel

Or why not book an Airbnb stay. Use this link to get up to $45AUD off.
What to Eat
Chocolate, chocolate, chocolate! And once you’re sick of chocolate, try some waffles (with chocolate of course!) or Frites which are hot fries with mayonnaise. Yum!
Amsterdam – 3 Days
Travel Time
Bruges to Amsterdam by train requires one change in Brussels with the journey taking no more than three hours.
Things to See & Do in Amsterdam
You can’t come to Amsterdam without checking out its famous canals. Whether it’s on foot, abroad a canal boat or riding a bike, you could spend your whole three days just exploring them. But if you want to fit in a few more things, I highly recommend Anne Frank Haus to learn about the young woman and her family’s story. You can also visit a few other world-class museums like the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum and Rembrandt House to name a few. Or take a cheeky walk around the famous Red Light District at night.
Red Light District Walking Tour – 1.5 hour night time walk through Amsterdam’s most colourful district.
Rijksmuseum Museum – pre-book and skip the queues!
Van Gogh Museum – don’t waste time in line.
City Canal Cruise – see the city from its famous canals.
Zaanse Schans Windmills – 3 hour tour to see this iconic Dutch sight.
Countryside Bike Tour – see windmills, cheese and clogs on this 3 hour tour.
Where to Stay
Budget
Located right in the heart of the city centre. The simply furnished rooms are clean and comfortable. Large windows with lots of natural light and private bathroom.
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Mid-Range

Boutique style hotel with free wi-fi, on-site bar and comfortable furnishings. Located steps for all of Amsterdam’s best attractions.
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Luxury
Set on the canal in a UNESCO World Heritage palace just steps for everything. Luxury furnishing and facilities including on-site spa and indoor swimming pool.
Check availability, prices and book this hotel

Or why not book an Airbnb stay. Use this link to get up to $45AUD off.
What to Eat
For some quintessential Dutch food, find yourself some raw herring, if you can stomach it. Grab a Kroket from a vending machine or some Frites from a street vendor. Or take a seat in a café to order some Erwtensoep, traditional split pea soup with other vegetables and pork. And to finish with something sweet try the poffertjes which are mini pancakes or stroopwafel, thin chewy waffle like biscuits.
Berlin – 3 Days
Travel Time
Amsterdam to Berlin can be done by direct train or with one change in Hanover. Travel time is about six hours.
Things to See & Do in Berlin
Make a beeline straight to the iconic Brandenburg Gate to start your visit. From there it’s an easy walk to most of the city’s must see sights like the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe to reflect on the city’s terrible history. Visit a bunch of great museums on Museum Island, take a ride up the Berlin TV Tower for views of the city and see some of the remain parts of the Berlin wall, including the section that’s been converted into an outdoor art gallery, East Side Gallery.
TV Tower – take in the views, without the queues.
Hop-on-Hop-off Bus – see it all in a day.
Walking Tour – discover the secrets of Berlin with a local.
Third Reich and Cold War Walking Tour – join this small group tour to learn about Berlins history.
Reichstag Dome & Government District Tour – explore the history, architecture and politics of the government district with a guide.
Welcome Card – skip the queues buy pre-purchasing this card which includes public transport and attraction discounts.
Berlin War & Cold War History Cycling Tour – follow the traces of the Berlin Wall from two wheels with an expert guide.
3-Hour Street Art Tour – discover the hidden weird and wonderful street art of Berlin
Where to Stay
Budget
Ibis Budget Berlin Kurfürstendamm
Located just off Berlin’s most popular shopping area, this hotel offers stylish, air conditioned rooms as well as a trendy lounge and free WiFi.
Check availability, prices and book this hotel
Mid Range
B! Apartments
These modern apartments are situated in Berlin’s trendy Mitte district. All feature a spacious living/sleeping area, a flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi and well-equipped kitchens.
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Luxury
Regent Berlin
Ideally located on Berlin’s Gendarmenmarkt Square, this classical-style, 5-star hotel offers Michelin-star cuisine, exclusive spa facilities, soundproofed rooms and free Wi-Fi.
Check availability, prices and book this hotel
Or why not book an Airbnb stay. Use this link to get up to $45AUD off.
What to Eat
You’re in Germany so a giant schnitzel or a pork knuckle is a must. For some street food try the currywurst which is basically sausages with curry sauce. Berlin is a very multicultural city so you will find food from just about every country in the world represented across the city.
Prague – 3 Days
Travel Time
Berlin to Prague trains run direct and takes less than 5 hours.
Things to See & Do in Prague
Avoid the craziness of Charles Bridge with an early morning stroll. Visit Prague Castle to step back in time and for views of the hundred spires across the city. Wander the old town cobblestone streets. Watch the Astronomical clock do it’s thing in the Old Town Square.
Prague Castle – tour the castle and its many attractions with an expert guide.
Jewish Quarter – a guided walk with a local around this interesting district of Prague.
Beer & Traditional Dinner – enjoy local Czech beer and food on this group tour.
Ghosts and Legends Walking Tour – 1.5 hour night time tour highlighting Prague’s most mysterious side.
Jewish Quarter Walking Tour – discover the interesting history of this Prague community.
1-Hour Vltara River Cruise – panoramic views as you cruise your way through Prague.
Prague City Card – choose from 2, 3 or 4 days with access to top attractions and discounts.
Where to Stay
Budget
10 minutes walk form the centre of Prague. Free wi-fi, on-site shared kitchen and guest seating area. Rooms are basic and come with either private or shared bathroom.
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Mid-Range

Away from the crowds but still an easy walk to the centre of town with lots of restaurants close by. Complimentary breakfast daily, rain showers and comfortable rooms.
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Luxury
Located in the Old Town with views of Prague Castle, Charles Bridge and the river. Luxury rooms and facilities complimented with on-site spa, and housed in a heritage building.
Check availability, prices and book this hotel

Or why not book an Airbnb stay. Use this link to get up to $45AUD off.
What to Eat
Food in Prague is cheap if you stay away from the main tourist areas. Wander down the back streets to find traditional restaurants selling hearty goulash with dumplings and fish soup to help warm you up on a cold day. Try some local pork sausages with a typical accompaniment of sauerkraut. And wash it all down with some of the best beers in the world.
Salzburg – 2 Days
Travel Time
Prague to Salzburg takes about six hours by train with one change in Linz.
Things to See & Do in Salzburg
Get your Sound of Music on with a tour of this famous movies filming locations. Walk around the old town checking out some of the best examples of Baroque architecture in the world. Dance around the Pegasus Fountain (Sound of Music reference) in the beautiful Mirabell Gardens. Enjoy the incredible views from Hohensalzburg Fortress. And learn more about the genius that was Mozart at his once birthplace which is now a museum.
Original Sound of Music Tour – not to be missed when in Salzburg.
Hallstatt Tour – enjoy a half-day tour to this picture perfect part of Austria.
Salzburg Card – includes free admission to many attractions and transport.
Hohensalzburg Fortress Admission Ticket – skip the queues and pre-book your entry to this spectacular castle.
Walking Tour of Salzburg – 2.5 hours includes Mozart, the Old Town and much more.
Where to Stay
Budget
Pension am Eschenbach
Featuring free WiFi and parking, this family-run pension is located in the centre of Salzburg, only a 10-minute walk from the Old Town. Rooms are equipped with a flat-screen TV, private bathroom and some feature a seating area.
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Mid Range
Gastehaus im Priesterseminar Salzburg
Set in a Baroque building in the centre of Salzburg just five minute walk from Mirabell Palace and Gardens. Rooms are simply furnished, have an en-suite bathroom, and free WiFi.
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Luxury
Hotel Goldener Hirsch
Situated in the famous Getreidegasse in the Old Town, only a few steps away from Mozart’s Birthplace. Rooms are furnished in a classic Austrian style and equipped with antiques and handmade furniture.
Check availability, prices and book this hotel
Or why not book an Airbnb stay. Use this link to get up to $45AUD off.
What to Eat
Similar cuisine to that of neighbouring country Germany. You’ll find big schnitzels, hearty pork knuckles with sauerkraut and traditional soups in the winter. For something sweet try a strudel or the national favourite, Nockerl.
Venice – 2 Days
Travel Time
Salzburg to Venice can be done on an overnight train taking seven hours or during the day with one change in Villach taking around six hours.
Things to See & Do in Venice
Whether it’s in a gondola or vaperetto, you must take a ride on the famous canals of Venice. Get lost wandering the winding cobblestone streets. Spend some time taking in the atmosphere of St Mark’s Square, watching the people and the pigeons. Explore some of the outer islands of Burano, Murano or Lido to see a different side of Venice.
St Mark’s Basilica – skip the line!
Venetian Lagoon Tour – visit the islands of Murano, Burano and Torcello.
Gondola Tour – enjoy this classic Venetian tour through the canals of Venice.
Doge’s Palace Priority Admission – skip the line!
2-Hour Walking Tour – join this small group tour with an expert guide to see the best of Venice.
Where to Stay
Budget
Located just steps from St Marks Square. This hotel offers free wi-fi, basic yet comfortable air conditioned rooms and the choice of shared or private bathroom.
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Mid Range

5 minutes walk to St Marks Square with some rooms overlooking the canal and others with views of the quiet courtyard. Rooms are decorated in typical Venetian style and are well appointed and comfortable.
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Luxury
This Luxury Collection Hotel features spacious and comfortable rooms with Italian marble bathrooms and plush furnishings and an onsite restaurant with panoramic views. Located 200m from St Marks Square.
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Or why not book an Airbnb stay. Use this link to get up to $45AUD off.
What to Eat
Unfortunately Venice is touristy and overpriced when it comes to food. Try to stay off the main tourist trail and get lost in the back streets to find traditional tavernas serving Italian food of pizzas, pastas and antipasto plates of cured meats. And don’t forget to finish every meal with a gelato!
Packing List for Spring in Europe on Frugal First Class Travel
Rome – 4 Days
Travel Time
Venice to Rome takes around three and a half hours by direct train with almost hourly departures.
Things to See & Do in Rome
Get a taste of Roman life in the centre of one of Europe’s biggest cities at the Colosseum and Roman Forum. Visit the inspiring and ancient Pantheon. Spend time in some of the city’s best public spaces like the Spanish Steps, Campo de Fiori and Piazza Navona. Visit another country, Vatican City, to see some of the worlds most incredible masterpieces and get the chance to come face to face with the Pope. And of course you must throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain so you can one day return to Rome.
Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel -skip the queues with fast-track entry.
Cooking Class – step into Mamma’s kitchen for an authentic Italian cooking class.
Street Food Tour – join a local guide to learn about and taste the best of Rome’s street food.
Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill Tour – includes priority access to skip the queues!
Where to Stay
Budget

Hotel Picasso
Located in the heart of the old town making it easy to walk to all the important historic sites. Rooms are basic, each with a private bathroom.
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Mid Range
Walk everywhere from this old town location. Rooms have either a garden or city view and some have acity area to relax after a busy day.
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Luxury

Just steps away from the Piazza Navona, enjoy luxury treats like bathrobes and slippers in these exquisitely decorated and well appointed rooms.
Check availability, prices, and book this hotel
Or why not book an Airbnb stay. Use this link to get up to $45AUD off.
What to Eat
You are in Italy so that means pizza, pasta, fresh salads and antipasto. Get off the main tourist drag to find the authentic tavernas, restaurants and cafes. Although the Italians are not huge on dessert, a slice of tiramisu or a canoli is a must. And eating gelato at least once a day is mandatory!
Florence – 2 Days
Travel Time
Rome to Florence takes just one and a half hours with services departing a few times every hour.
Things to See & Do in Florence
Art is the biggest drawcard in Florence and you can see some of the worlds best at the Uffitzi Gallery including the famous Statue of David. Check out the massive Duomo which dominates the square it sits on. Walk over one of Europe’s most atmospheric bridges, Pont Vechhio. And shop for leather goods in the Mercato Centrale.
Accademia Gallery – see Michelangelo’s David without having to queue.
Tuscany Day Trip – visit San Gimignano, Siena and the Chianti wine region on this full day trip into the Tuscan countryside.
Florence Dome Climb – skip the queue with this priority access ticket.
Uffizi Gallery Small Group Tour – get priority access and an expert guide to interpret the magnificence of this famous gallery.
Where to Stay
Budget

Steps away from the popular Uffizi Gallery and walking distance to all other Florence attractions. Rooms are clean but basic, some with shared facilities.
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Mid Range
Great location in the heart of Florence. Rooms are air-conditioned with free wi-fi and comfortable furnishings. On-site bar tops it all off!
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Luxury

Beautifully appointed hotel right on the river. Easy walk to all that Florence has to offer. Luxurious bathrooms and in room coffee machine makes this an excellent choice.
Check availability, prices and book this hotel
Or why not book an Airbnb stay. Use this link to get up to $45AUD off.
What to Eat
As with Venice and Rome, pizza and pasta will dominate the menus. A specialty of the region is steak, specifically Florentine t-bone steak which is cooked to perfection. I guarantee it will be the best steak you’ve ever had!
Nice – 2 Days
Travel Time
Florence to Nice can take up to seven hours by train with two changes required in Genova or Milan and Ventimiglia.
Things to See & Do in Nice
Take a walk along the Promenade des Anglais on the water front. Explore the winding lanes of the old town looking for tiny cafes and bars. Enjoy the Mediterranean waters with a swim. Take a train to Cannes to see where the rich and famous come to play for the yearly film festival. Or head to the tiny country of Monaco to mingle with the wealthy at Monte Carlo Casino.
Monaco & Monte Carlo – an evening tour of one of the world’s smallest principalities.
Ferrari Driving – indulge in this once-in-a-lifetime experience driving a Ferrari along the French Riviera.
Where to Stay
Budget
This colourful hotel is basic yet comfortable and it is located an easy walk to everything that Nice offers. Free wi-fi, breakfast and access to a lovely patio are all included.
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Mid-Range

Just minutes walk to the beach, this lovely beach style hotel is well equipped with everything you would expect from an Ibis hotel.Free wi-fi is available in room.
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Luxury
Across from the beach, this famous hotel provides luxury rooms and facilities to match. Free wi-fi, four poster beds and on-site fitness centre make this a comfortable choice.
Check availability, prices and book this hotel

Or why not book an Airbnb stay. Use this link to get up to $45AUD off.
What to Eat
You’re on the sea so seafood is fresh and at its best. Dine near the port for restaurants serving the freshest catches. Lots of fresh produce is used in fresh salads and dishes with a distinct Mediterranean flavour. Fish stew is the must try dish and don’t miss out on trying the world-famous Nicoise salad.
Barcelona 3 Days
Travel Time
Nice to Barcelona by train takes around eight hours with two changes required in Marseille and Montpellier.
Things to See & Do in Barcelona
Take a long stroll down Las Ramblas to be entertained by street performers and lots of people watching opportunities. Check out the mark left on the city by Gaudi at Sangrada Familia, Park Guell and Casa Batllo. Wander the Gothic quarter to see some of the city’s best Gothic architecture.
Sagrada Familia – beat the queues with fast-track tickets.
Hop-on-Hop-off Bus – see it all in 1 or 2 days.
Park Guell Admission – skip the queues to explore this Gaudi masterpiece.
Barcelona Card – includes free access to more than 25 museums and free public transport.
Flamenco Show – watch this incredible one hour performance of traditional Spanish dance.
Where to Stay
Budget
Steps from Las Ramblas. Rooms are air-conditioned and come with free wi-fi. There is an onsite restaurant where the complimentary daily breakfast is served.
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Mid-Range

Rooftop terrace with pool and stunning 360 degree views make this one of the best options for central Barcelona accommodation.
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Luxury
Located right in the heart of the Gothic Quarter. Inside this hotel you will find a 1 Michelin starred restaurant and a rooftop infinity pool, giving you plenty of relaxation options.
Check availability, prices and book this hotel

Or why not book an Airbnb stay. Use this link to get up to $45AUD off.
What to Eat
For a meal shared with friends, find a small tapas bar to enjoy small plates of food including freshly cut jamon, creamy croquettes, fresh seafood like sardines and bite sized omelette. For a bigger meal try the seafood paella, a rice dish cooked in one pan and topped with fresh seafood and meat. For sweets you can’t go past churros, a sugar or cinnamon coated long doughnut.
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Over to you!
What is top of your list of places to visit in Europe? What would you add to this one month Europe itinerary for your own trip?
Let me know using the comments section below or join me on social media to start a conversation.
Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed this post.