5 Week Europe Summer Itinerary
Experience the full magic of Europe with five weeks of sun, sea, and culture. From Spain’s vibrant cities and the glamorous French Riviera to Italy’s historic towns, the enchanting Greek Islands, and Turkey’s turquoise coast, this itinerary combines iconic landmarks, stunning beaches, and Instagram-worthy moments. Perfect for travelers who want an unforgettable, immersive European adventure.
5 Week Europe Summer
Week 1
Days 1-3: Barcelona
Barcelona is a vibrant city full of color and iconic architecture. Explore La Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, and the Gothic Quarter to capture unforgettable city photos. Stroll along Las Ramblas and the Barcelona beachfront, soaking up the lively atmosphere, and end your day with stunning evening photos at the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc.
Days 4 - 7: Costa Brava
Costa Brava is a stunning stretch of Spain’s northeastern coastline, perfect for beach lovers and photographers. Relax on the sandy shores of Tossa de Mar or Lloret de Mar, and capture Instagram-worthy shots at Calella de Palafrugell, with its colorful fishing houses, and the charming Sa Tuna cove. For art and culture enthusiasts, take an optional day trip to Cadaqués, the picturesque coastal town famously associated with Salvador Dalí. Travel between towns is easy by train or rental car (~1–2 hours), allowing you to explore the coastline at your own pace.
Week 2
Days 8 - 10: Nice
Nice is the perfect introduction to the French Riviera, combining seaside charm with vibrant city life. Stroll along the Promenade des Anglais, capturing the sparkling Mediterranean and iconic beachfront views. Wander through Old Town (Vieux Nice) with its colorful streets, lively markets, and quaint cafés. Take a day trip to Èze village, perched high on a hill with breathtaking panoramic views of the Riviera. For relaxation, spend time on Plage Beau Rivage or indulge in the luxury of one of Nice’s private beach clubs.
Day 11: Cannes
Cannes exudes glamour and charm along the French Riviera. Take a short train ride from Nice (~40 mins) to stroll the famous Boulevard de la Croisette and explore the picturesque harbor. Capture sunset photos on the sandy beaches, and consider an optional excursion to Île Sainte-Marguerite, where turquoise waters and scenic landscapes create perfect Instagram-worthy moments.
Day 12: Saint-Tropez
Saint-Tropez is the epitome of luxury on the French Riviera. Relax on Pampelonne Beach, known for its crystal-clear waters and upscale beach clubs. Wander around the Port of Saint-Tropez to capture stunning sunset and yacht photos, and explore La Ponche old town, with its charming cobbled streets, quaint cafés, and picturesque corners perfect for Instagram shots.
Day 13: Monaco
Monaco is a glamorous playground on the Mediterranean coast. Take a day trip from Nice (~30 mins by train) to explore the legendary Monte Carlo Casino, stroll around the Prince’s Palace, and wander through the beautifully manicured cliffside gardens offering stunning views of the sea—perfect for capturing unforgettable summer photos.
Week 3
Days 14 - 16: Venice
Venice is a city of romance and timeless beauty, perfect for photography lovers. Explore St. Mark’s Square, admire the Rialto Bridge, and glide along the Grand Canal on a gondola ride. Venture to Burano Island, famous for its vibrant, pastel-colored streets that make for unforgettable Instagram shots.
Days 17 - 18: Florence & Pisa
Florence & Pisa are highlights of Tuscany’s rich history and stunning architecture. In Florence, explore the iconic Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and Uffizi Gallery, and capture 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 charming streets of this historic region.
Days 19 - 21: Cinque Terre
Cinque Terre is a collection of five enchanting coastal villages: Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso. Capture the beauty of colorful cliffside houses, stroll along the romantic Via dell’Amore, and snap photos at the scenic harbors in each village. Hike between villages for panoramic sea views, then unwind and soak up the sun on Monterosso’s sandy beach.
Week 4
Days 22 - 24: Mykonos
Mykonos is the ultimate Greek island escape, blending sun-soaked beaches with charming streets and iconic sights. Spend your days on Paradise Beach and Super Paradise Beach, enjoying vibrant party vibes and crystal-clear waters. Capture Instagram-worthy shots at the windmills of Mykonos and the colorful waterfront of Little Venice, then wander the whitewashed alleys adorned with bougainvillea for a truly picturesque experience.
Days 25 - 27: Santorini
Santorini is a dream destination for stunning sunsets and unforgettable photos. Visit Oia to marvel at the iconic blue-domed churches and capture breathtaking sunset shots. Explore Fira, the cliffside town with panoramic caldera views, and relax or snap photos at Perissa’s black sand beach and the dramatic Red Beach. For a unique perspective, consider a caldera boat tour, capturing the island’s beauty from the sparkling Aegean Sea.
Days 28 - 30: Crete
Crete is a sun-soaked paradise offering 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 make for perfect Instagram shots. Adventure seekers 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.
Week 5
Days 31 - 33: Istanbul
Istanbul is a vibrant city where East meets West, full of history and stunning photo opportunities. Explore the iconic Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, wander the bustling Grand Bazaar, and capture panoramic views from Galata Tower. Don’t miss sunset along the Bosphorus, where the shimmering waters and city skyline create unforgettable Instagram-worthy moments.
Days 34 - 35: Turkish Riviera (Antalya / Kas / Kalkan)
The Turkish Riviera is a sun-drenched paradise along Turkey’s Mediterranean coast. Relax on turquoise beaches like Kaputaş Beach, explore charming harbors, and wander scenic cliffside towns such as Kas and Kalkan. Capture stunning coastal photos and enjoy optional boat trips along the Mediterranean, where hidden coves and crystal-clear waters make for perfect Instagram moments.