Embark on a sun-soaked journey through Europe’s most stunning destinations, from the glamorous French Riviera to Italy’s picturesque villages and the iconic Greek Islands. This 3-week itinerary blends breathtaking beaches, charming towns, and Instagram-worthy sights, giving you the perfect mix of relaxation, culture, and unforgettable photo opportunities.
A three-week summer journey through France, Italy, and Greece is the perfect blend of culture, cuisine, history, and sun-soaked adventure. This itinerary is designed for travelers who want to experience Europe at a relaxed but immersive pace, moving from elegant city streets to coastal escapes and ancient landmarks.
The trip begins in France, where timeless charm meets modern energy. Wander through romantic Parisian neighborhoods, admire world-class art and architecture, and enjoy café culture that turns every meal into an experience. From there, the journey flows south, offering scenic transitions and a taste of French lifestyle before heading into Italy.
In Italy, history feels alive at every corner. Explore iconic cities filled with ancient ruins, Renaissance art, and vibrant piazzas, while indulging in unforgettable food—from fresh pasta to creamy gelato. Balance busy city days with slower moments in picturesque towns or along the coast, where warm evenings and breathtaking views define the Italian summer.
The itinerary ends in Greece, where crystal-clear waters and ancient mythology create a magical finale. Discover historic sites that date back thousands of years, stroll through white-washed villages, and unwind on stunning beaches. Whether island-hopping or staying on the mainland, Greece offers the perfect mix of relaxation and exploration to close out the journey.
This 3-week Europe summer itinerary is ideal for travelers seeking a well-rounded experience—combining iconic destinations with authentic local moments, all while embracing the beauty, flavor, and rhythm of Mediterranean life.
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Week 1
Day 1-3: Nice, France
Budget level: $$$$$ (5/5)
Fly into Nice Côte d’Azur Airport to begin your French Riviera adventure.
Stroll along the Promenade des Anglais, the iconic seaside boulevard perfect for capturing sunrise photos and enjoying the sparkling Mediterranean views. Wander through Old Town (Vieux Nice) with its narrow cobblestone streets, vibrant markets, and colorful facades—every corner is incredibly photogenic.
Take a day trip to Èze village, a charming hilltop village offering stunning panoramic views of the French Riviera, quaint artisan shops, and picturesque streets.
For some beach time, relax at Plage Beau Rivage or one of the region’s exclusive private beach clubs, where the sun, sand, and turquoise waters create the perfect summer escape.
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Day 4: Cannes
Budget level: $$$$$ (5/5)
Once in Cannes, stroll along the famous Boulevard de la Croisette, soaking up the glamorous vibes of the film festival and admiring luxury hotels and yachts. Spend the afternoon capturing sunset photos on the golden sandy beaches, perfect for Instagram.
For a short excursion, visit the nearby Île Sainte-Marguerite, a stunning island with turquoise waters, lush greenery, and plenty of picture-perfect spots to add to your social media feed.
Day 5: Saint-Tropez
Budget level: $$$$$ (5/5)
Saint-Tropez is the ultimate spot for sun, sea, and style. Relax on Pampelonne Beach, where crystal-clear waters and luxury beach clubs set the scene for the perfect summer day.
Wander around the Port of Saint-Tropez, capturing photos of colorful yachts and enjoying breathtaking sunset views over the harbor.
Don’t miss the hidden gem of La Ponche, the old town with charming cobbled streets, quaint cafés, and vibrant corners perfect for Instagram-worthy shots.
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Week 2
Day 6-8: Cinque Terre, Italy
Budget level: $$$$ (4/5)
Cinque Terre is a stunning collection of five charming villages along the Italian Riviera: Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso.
Capture unforgettable photos at the Instagram hotspots: colorful cliffside houses, the romantic Via dell’Amore (Lover’s Lane), and the scenic harbors of each village.
Take small hikes between the villages for breathtaking panoramic views of the Mediterranean coastline. After exploring, relax on Monterosso’s sandy beach, soaking up the sun and enjoying the sparkling turquoise waters.
Day 9-11: Positano & Amalfi Coast
Budget level: $$$$$ (5/5)
Positano is a true Instagram paradise, with pastel-colored houses cascading down cliffs toward the sparkling sea. Wander the charming streets and snap photos from every angle—perfect for your social feed.
Spend time at Spiaggia Grande, the main beach, where colorful umbrellas and sunbathers create a vibrant, summer-perfect scene.
Take a day trip to Amalfi town and Ravello, exploring terraces and gardens with breathtaking infinity-view panoramas over the coastline.
For an extra special experience, consider a boat trip to Capri, where you can marvel at the famous Blue Grotto and capture stunning seaside photos.
Day 12: Sorrento
Budget level: $$$$ (4/5)
Sorrento charms visitors with its quaint streets and fragrant lemon groves, perfect for capturing aesthetic, sun-soaked photos.
Head to Marina Grande beach for a leisurely lunch by the ocean, snapping pictures of colorful boats and sparkling waters.
Don’t miss the stunning views over the Bay of Naples, where panoramic vistas of the coastline and distant Mount Vesuvius create unforgettable Instagram moments.
Week 3
Day 13 -15: Mykonos, Greece
Budget level: $$$$$ (5/5)
Mykonos is the ultimate summer hotspot, offering a perfect mix of party vibes and relaxation. Spend your days at Paradise Beach and Super Paradise Beach, soaking up the sun, turquoise waters, and lively atmosphere.
For iconic Instagram shots, wander around the famous windmills of Mykonos and the colorful Little Venice waterfront.
Don’t miss exploring the charming whitewashed alleys adorned with bougainvillea, where every corner is a picture-perfect moment waiting to happen.
Day 16 - 18: Santorini, Greece
Budget level: $$$$$ (5/5)
Santorini is a photographer’s dream, starting with Oia, famous for its iconic blue-domed churches and breathtaking sunset views that light up the caldera.
Explore Fira, the cliffside town offering stunning panoramic caldera views and charming alleyways perfect for wandering and capturing scenic shots.
Relax or take photos at Perissa’s black sand beach and the dramatic Red Beach, where striking cliffs meet turquoise waters.
For a truly unforgettable experience, consider a caldera boat tour, providing unique perspectives and incredible photo opportunities on the sparkling Aegean Sea.
Day 19 - 21: Athens
Budget level: $$$ (2-3/5)
Athens is a paradise for history lovers and photographers alike. Start at the Acropolis, where the Parthenon and Erechtheion offer iconic views of the city and striking photo opportunities.
Wander through Plaka, the charming historic neighbourhood at the foot of the Acropolis, with its narrow streets, colourful buildings, and traditional tavernas—perfect for capturing the essence of Athenian life.
Don’t miss Monastiraki Square and its vibrant flea market, where lively scenes of locals and tourists create dynamic photo moments.
For panoramic city views, head to Lycabettus Hill, where sunsets over Athens, with the Acropolis in the foreground, provide unforgettable shots and memories.
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