3 weeks in Europe: Famous Cities
A Eurail adventure in 7 European countries
If you're spending 3 weeks in Europe and want to get a taste of its most famous cities in one go, this is the route for you! Whether you're a first-timer to Europe or coming back for more, these European capitals and star cities each have their own unique character.
Click here or on the map to view this route in our Trip Planner.
You can adjust it in any way you want, and we'll show you the recommended Eurail Pass for your trip.
Cities visited in this trip:
1. Milan, Italy
The Cathedral Square in Milan
Visit young and cosmopolitan Milan, the finest place for Italian cuisine, coffee, and of course, fashion!
Don't miss: the Cathedral Square and its entertaining surroundings. View the city from the cathedral roof.
Got more time? Watch a soccer game at the San Siro stadium. Or take a day trip to celeb hotspot Lake Como.
From Milan's magnificent Central Station, take a train to Venice in just 2.5 hours.
Video train route Milan - Venice
2. Venice, Italy
Carnaval in Venice
Arrive by train in Venice to be greeted by romantic views of canals, bridges, and boats.
Don’t miss: riding a gondola ferry (traghetto) across the Grand Canal or splash out on your own private ride.
Got more time? Stroll from Rialto Bridge to the squares of San Polo for markets and an afternoon spritz.
A direct train takes you through the scenic Brenner mountain pass to Munich in 7 hours.
3. Munich, Germany
Skyline of Munich
The Bavarian blockbuster, Munich. Expect a warm welcome, impressive architecture, and culture galore.
Don't miss: the Kunstareal district. Full of world-class museums and galleries, it has something for everyone.
Got more time? Stroll through the Englischer Garten and catch the most scenic panoramic view over the whole city from the Monopteros.
Next, take a Railjet train from Munich to Vienna in just 4 hours.
4. Vienna, Austria
The Schonbrunn Palace gardens
Follow in the footsteps of Mozart and Beethoven and visit Vienna, where you’re never short on entertainment.
Don't miss: the Schönbrunn Palace with its extensive gardens, sculptures, and truly decadent interior.
Got more time? Get your thrills at the Vienna Prater, the world’s oldest amusement park.
Direct EuroCity or Railjet trains will take you to Budapest in 2 hours 20 minutes.
Video train route Vienna - Budapest
5. Budapest, Hungary
Swimmer in Széchenyi spa baths, Budapest
Explore the grand sights of Budapest. Check out Buda Castle by day, and the Chain Bridge by night.
Don't miss: the chance to unwind in this spa city. Take a dip in the Gellért or Széchenyi thermal baths.
Got more time? Take the train to Balatonakarattya and around Lake Balaton to see rural Hungarian life.
There are direct day trains (6 hours 45 minutes) and overnight trains (8 hours) to Prague.
6. Prague, Czech Republic
Charles Bridge in Prague
From medieval cobbled streets to rooftop restaurants, the magic of Prague will charm you.
Don't miss: the astronomical clock (orloj) striking the hour. While you’re there, explore the Old Town Square.
Got more time? Wander from the saintly statues of Charles Bridge up to the splendid castle complex.
It’s a 4.5 hour direct train ride from Prague to Berlin.
7. Berlin, Germany
Multicolored lights on the Brandenburg Gate
Historic sites and a vibrant social scene await you in Germany's dynamic, ever-changing capital.
Don't miss: hearing stories at the poignant Berlin Wall Memorial or graffiti-decorated East Side Gallery.
Got more time? Head to the Grunewald for a stroll through woodland or a swim in its freshwater lakes.
The high-quality Intercity Berlin train reaches Amsterdam in 6 hours 20 minutes.
8. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Tall, canal-side buildings in Amsterdam
The "Dam". Tolerant, open-minded, and a labyrinth of narrow streets and canals. Expect the unexpected.
Must-do: Try a canal cruise for a different perspective of the city. If you prefer dry land, rent a bike!
Got more time? Get intellectual and check Dutch glory at the Rijksmuseum, then chill over a coffee or two...
Reserve a seat on a Eurostar train to Paris and you’ll be there in less than 3.5 hours.
9. Paris, France
Travelers jumping in front of the Eiffel Tower in Paris
Enjoy the good life in Paris with a baguette and a slice of Brie cheese while resting your feet by the River Seine.
Don't miss: standing before the Eiffel Tower in one of the most Instagram-worthy moments of your life.
Got more time? Check out art classics (think Mona Lisa) at the Louvre or modern art at the Centre Pompidou.
From Paris, you can travel by TGV Duplex train to Nice in 6.5 hours.
10. Nice, France
Beach in Nice, France
It’s time for you to relax and take it easy in the capital of the French Riviera. Nice!
Don't miss: soaking up the sun on the Promenade des Anglais with its cafés, palm trees, and pebble beach.
Got more time? It’s just 7 minutes to sandy beaches in Villefranche-sur-Mer, and 20 to Monte Carlo casino.
If you’re heading back to Milan, change trains in Ventimiglia to get there in just over 5 hours.
Is this itinerary for me?
This itinerary is designed to give you an example of what you can do with a Eurail train pass. It's made for independent travelers who want to shape their own Europe itinerary. Three weeks gives you enough time to spend 2 nights in all these famous cities. In each destination, you have the freedom to make your own plans.
The best train pass to use to follow this itinerary is the Eurail Global Pass. It gives you the luxury and flexibility to travel by train in all these countries on any day of your trip. Want to spend more time in one city and less in another? With Eurail, that's not a problem! Simply choose a Pass with a longer validity period.
Change of currency
You cannot change the currency once you have a Pass in your cart. Remove the Pass, and then change the currency on the website header.