Extend your adventure and immerse yourself in the very best of Europe’s sun-drenched coastlines and historic cities. Over four weeks, explore the glamour of the French Riviera, the charm of Italy’s iconic towns, and the breathtaking beauty of the Greek Islands, all while capturing unforgettable sunsets, vibrant streets, and postcard-perfect beaches along the way.

A four-week summer adventure through France, Italy, and Greece offers the ultimate way to experience Europe—slowly, deeply, and with room to truly savor each destination. This itinerary is perfect for travelers who want to balance iconic landmarks with hidden gems, combining vibrant cities, coastal escapes, and centuries of history into one unforgettable journey.

 

The journey begins in France, where art, fashion, food, and romance set the tone. Spend time soaking in the elegance of Paris before venturing beyond the capital to charming regions filled with vineyards, historic towns, and scenic landscapes. With extra time, France becomes more than a highlight—it becomes an experience, allowing travelers to enjoy relaxed mornings, cultural discoveries, and long, leisurely meals.

 

From there, the itinerary continues into Italy, where the past and present blend effortlessly. Explore world-famous cities rich in art and ancient history, then slow down in idyllic countryside villages or along the Mediterranean coast. A four-week timeline allows for deeper exploration—whether that’s lingering in a historic piazza, taking day trips to lesser-known towns, or fully embracing Italy’s celebrated food culture and relaxed pace of life.

 

The final leg leads to Greece, offering a perfect balance of adventure and rest. Discover ancient ruins and mythological landmarks, then unwind on sun-drenched islands or along pristine coastlines. With more time, Greece invites travelers to island-hop, connect with local traditions, and enjoy golden sunsets over crystal-clear waters—an ideal way to conclude a month-long journey.

 

This 4-week Europe summer itinerary is designed for travelers who want more than just a checklist of destinations. It’s about slowing down, embracing local culture, and creating meaningful memories across three of Europe’s most captivating countries—all under the warmth of the Mediterranean sun.

 

Week 1

Day 1-3: Nice

Budget level: $$$$$ (5/5)

Stroll along the Promenade des Anglais, capturing the sparkling Mediterranean and iconic seaside views, then wander through Old Town (Vieux Nice) with its colorful streets, bustling markets, and charming cafés. Take a day trip to Èze village, a picturesque hilltop town offering breathtaking panoramic views of the French Riviera. For some relaxation, spend time on Plage Beau Rivage or enjoy the luxury of one of the area’s private beach clubs.

 

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Day 4: Cannes

Budget level: $$$$$ (5/5)

Take the train from Nice for a scenic 40-minute journey to Cannes. Once there, stroll along the Boulevard de la Croisette and the picturesque harbor, soaking up the glamorous film festival vibes. Capture sunset photos on the sandy beaches, then consider an optional excursion to Île Sainte-Marguerite, where turquoise waters and charming landscapes provide perfect Instagram-worthy moments.

 

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Day 5: Saint-Tropez

Budget level: $$$$$ (5/5)

Relax on Pampelonne Beach, where crystal-clear waters and luxurious beach clubs set the scene for a perfect summer day. Wander around the Port of Saint-Tropez, capturing stunning sunset shots and colorful yachts. Don’t miss the charming La Ponche old town, with its cobbled streets, quaint cafés, and picturesque corners that are perfect for Instagram-worthy photos.

 

Day 6: Monaco

Budget level: $$$$$ (5/5)

Take a day trip from Nice, just a scenic 30-minute train ride away, to glamorous Monte Carlo. Explore the legendary Monte Carlo Casino, wander through the Prince’s Palace, and stroll the beautifully manicured cliffside gardens, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean coast—perfect for capturing unforgettable summer photos.

 

Week 2

Day 7 - 9: Cinque Terre

Budget level: $$$$ (4/5)

Cinque Terre is made up of five charming villages: Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso. Capture the beauty of the colorful cliffside houses, stroll along the romantic Via dell’Amore, and snap photos at the scenic harbors in each village. Take short hikes between the villages for breathtaking panoramic views of the Mediterranean coastline, then unwind and soak up the sun on Monterosso’s sandy beach.

 

Day 10 - 11: Florence & Pisa

Budget level: $$$$ (4/5)

Florence & Pisa are must-see highlights of Tuscany. In Florence, explore the iconic Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and Uffizi Gallery, and don’t miss sunset views from Piazzale Michelangelo for breathtaking cityscapes. Take a short trip to Pisa to snap photos at the famous Leaning Tower, then continue your journey through the stunning Italian countryside.

 

Week 3

Day 12 - 14: Positano & Amalfi Coast

Budget level: $$$$$ (5/5)

Positano & the Amalfi Coast are a dream for sun, sea, and Instagram-worthy views. Wander through pastel-colored houses cascading down cliffs, relax on Spiaggia Grande with its vibrant umbrellas, and explore the charming streets lined with boutiques and cafés. Take a day trip to Amalfi town and Ravello to enjoy stunning terraces and infinity-view gardens. For a unique perspective, consider a boat trip to Capri and the famous Blue Grotto.

 

Day 15: Sorrento

Budget level: $$$$ (4/5)

Sorrento charms visitors with its quaint streets and fragrant lemon groves, perfect for leisurely strolls and aesthetic photos. Enjoy a seaside lunch at Marina Grande beach, capturing the 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-worthy moments.

 

Day 16 - 17: Naples / Pompeii

Budget level: $$$ (3/5)

Naples & Pompeii offer a fascinating mix of history and stunning scenery. Explore the ancient ruins of Pompeii, walking through streets frozen in time by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. For adventure and panoramic views, consider a climb up Mount Vesuvius itself, where you can gaze over the Bay of Naples and surrounding countryside—a perfect backdrop for dramatic photos.

 

Week 4

Day 18 - 20: Mykonos

Budget level: $$$$$ (5/5)

Mykonos is the ultimate Greek island getaway, offering a perfect blend of sun, fun, and Instagram-worthy charm. Spend your days on Paradise Beach and Super Paradise Beach, soaking up the sun and vibrant party vibes. Explore the iconic windmills of Mykonos and the colorful waterfront of Little Venice for unforgettable photos. Wander through the whitewashed alleys adorned with bougainvillea, capturing every picturesque corner of this stunning island.

 

Day 21 - 23: Santorini

Budget level: $$$$$ (5/5)

Santorini is a dream destination for photographers and sunset lovers. Visit Oia to marvel at the iconic blue-domed churches and capture unforgettable sunset views. Explore Fira, the cliffside town with panoramic caldera vistas and charming alleyways. Relax or take photos at Perissa’s black sand beach and the dramatic Red Beach, where striking cliffs meet turquoise waters. For a unique perspective, consider a caldera boat tour to capture the island from the sparkling Aegean Sea.

 

Day 24 - 28: Crete

Budget level: $$$$ (3.5-4/5)

Crete is a sun-soaked paradise with a mix of stunning beaches, charming towns, and dramatic landscapes. Visit Elafonissi Beach, Balos Lagoon, and Vai Beach with its famous palm forest for breathtaking coastal views. Wander through Chania’s old town, where the Venetian harbor and colorful streets are perfect for Instagram photos. Adventure lovers can explore the Samaria Gorge for dramatic hiking and scenic vistas. End your days with sunset dinners overlooking the Cretan Sea, soaking up the relaxed island atmosphere before flying home from Heraklion or Chania Airport.

 

Travel Tips & Alternative Routes

French Riviera: Easily travel between Nice, Cannes, and Monaco using fast regional trains—efficient and scenic.

Italy:

  • Cinque Terre → Venice or Florence → Naples: Conveniently accessible by train or short domestic flights.

  • Amalfi Coast → Rome: Take a high-speed train via Naples for a quick and comfortable transfer (approx. 1 hour).

Italy → Greece: Direct flights from Rome or Naples to popular Greek islands like Mykonos or Santorini make island hopping seamless.

Santorini → Crete: Options include a short flight (~45 minutes) or a scenic ferry ride (~2–3 hours).

Crete: Renting a car is highly recommended to explore hidden beaches, charming villages, and remote attractions at your own pace.

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