Europe is an excellent destination for a family vacation. Planning a three-week trip allows you to explore multiple captivating locations. Are you wondering which places to visit and how to organize such an epic journey? Take a look at our awesome 3 week Europe itinerary, along with several other useful tips, and start planning your epic family adventure today!
This post may contain affiliate links and I may earn a small commission when you purchase from the links at no additional cost to you.
The Destinations Included
This 3-week itinerary features a thoughtfully chosen mix of Europe’s most iconic cities and scenic regions giving you a little bit of everything without the stress of crisscrossing the continent.
Each destination offers something unique, from rich history and legendary landmarks to relaxed coastal vibes and family-friendly charm.
- London – A world-class city filled with museums, royal landmarks, and centuries of history. It’s a great place to kick off your journey. For planning help, check out our family trip guide to London.
- Paris – The City of Light delivers timeless beauty, mouthwatering cuisine, and bucket-list sights like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Versailles.
- Rome – My personal favorite. It’s walkable, packed with ancient wonders, and home to some of the best food in Europe. Every turn feels like a movie scene.
- Lisbon – Compact, charming, and full of character. This underrated gem combines tiled streets, hilltop views, and incredible food in a family-friendly size. Don’t miss our essential guide to planning Lisbon.
- The Algarve – After the cities, this southern coastal region of Portugal is the perfect breather. Think golden beaches, sea caves, and small-town vibes in places like Lagos the perfect ending to an unforgettable European adventure.
Together, these destinations offer the perfect mix of culture, relaxation, and family fun all grouped in a way that keeps travel time manageable and the experience fun.
Flights to Europe
Planning how you enter and exit Europe is one of the first big decisions when building your 3-week itinerary and there are two solid options that work well for families.
Option 1: Round-Trip Flights to London
Flying round-trip into and out of London is often the most cost-effective option, especially when flying from North America. London has several major airports (like Heathrow, Gatwick, and Stansted), which means:
- More flight times to choose from
- Better deals from budget carriers
- Frequent sales and promotions
If you choose this route, your trip would begin in London and end in the Algarve (Lagos). On the final day, you’d take a one-way flight from Faro Airport (FAO) the main airport serving the Algarve back to London in time to connect to your international return flight home. This option adds one extra flight but can be the most budget-friendly, especially when traveling with kids.
Option 2: Open-Jaw (Multi-City) Flights
Another option is to book what’s known as an open-jaw or multi-city ticket. With this setup, you’ll:
- Fly into London at the start of your trip
- Fly home from Faro at the end
This option saves time and avoids the need to backtrack. It’s especially convenient if you’re not interested in returning to London for your departure. While multi-city tickets can sometimes cost a bit more upfront, they can often be just as affordable as round-trip flights when booked early and they reduce the number of flight legs, which can make a big difference for family travel.
We’ve personally used both options and made the call based on cost, convenience, and flight schedules. In our experience, both have worked well it just comes down to what fits your needs and your travel style.
Booking Tips for Families:
- Use tools like Google Flights or Skyscanner to compare both round-trip and multi-city prices side by side.
- Book early especially if you’re traveling in peak season (late spring through early fall).
- If you’re flying into one airport and connecting from another (e.g., landing at Heathrow and flying out of Gatwick), leave plenty of time between flights or consider an overnight stay.
Connecting Between Locations
One of the most manageable parts of this itinerary is how easy it is to get from city to city especially when you mix Europe’s high-speed trains, low-cost flights, and a bit of scenic driving. Here’s how to get around efficiently without the travel stress.
London to Paris – Take the Train
The Eurostar train from London to Paris is hands-down the best option for families. It takes about 2.5 hours, travels city-center to city-center, and skips the hassle of airports altogether. You don’t have to show up hours early, wait in long lines, or deal with strict baggage limits which makes it an ideal first leg of your journey.
Paris to Rome & Rome to Lisbon – Regional Flights
For longer hops like Paris to Rome and Rome to Lisbon, regional flights are your best bet. Budget carriers like EasyJet, Vueling, and Ryanair frequently offer routes for under $100 if you book early. A few tips:
- Fly with just a carry-on and personal item to avoid extra fees.
- Always double-check luggage rules, as budget airlines often charge for overhead bags or printed boarding passes.
- Choose early morning or midweek flights for the best prices.
We’ve flown these routes multiple times and found them affordable and easy especially when we stick to carry-on bags.
Lisbon to the Algarve – Rent a Car and Hit the Road
Once you reach Lisbon, the best way to reach Lagos and the Algarve is to rent a car and drive about 3 hours south. We’ve made this drive ourselves, and it’s straightforward, scenic, and much more convenient than trying to piece together regional trains or buses.
Why rent a car?
- The Algarve doesn’t have strong public transit, especially for reaching beaches or natural landmarks.
- Having a car gives you the freedom to explore secluded coves, clifftop hikes, and charming coastal towns like Sagres or Carvoeiro on your own schedule.
- Rental prices are often quite reasonable, and pickup/drop-off at Lisbon or Faro airports is easy.
We had a great experience renting and driving in Portugal, and highly recommend it for the flexibility it gives especially for families with gear or strollers.
Flying Home from the Algarve
If you booked a round-trip flight to London, you’ll need to fly back there from Faro Airport (the Algarve’s main hub) to catch your return flight. If you booked an open-jaw or multi-city ticket, you can simply fly home from Faro, saving time and backtracking.
Bottom Line: By mixing trains, flights, and a road trip, this itinerary keeps travel days smooth, scenic, and relatively stress-free so you can spend more time making memories and less time navigating logistics.
Where to Stay: Booking Family Accommodations in Europe
For a 3-week trip like this, vacation rentals are hands-down the best choice for families. We’ve found that staying in short-term rentals (like Airbnb or VRBO) not only gives everyone their own space and a real bed, but also makes it easier to settle into a rhythm — especially on a longer itinerary where downtime is key.
Why Vacation Rentals Work So Well for Families:
- More space to relax: Whether it’s a separate bedroom for the kids or just a living room to unwind in after sightseeing, the added space makes a big difference.
- Kitchen access: Being able to cook a quick meal or store snacks cuts down on food costs and keeps picky eaters happy.
- Laundry: Essential when you’re traveling light and trying to stretch outfits over 3 weeks.
- Local immersion: Rentals are often tucked into real neighborhoods, so you get a better feel for the culture compared to staying in hotel districts.
That said, it does require a little more planning to find the right properties. We recommend reading listings carefully and reaching out to hosts with questions about check-in, amenities, or transportation.
Before you book, check out our essential guide to finding the perfect Airbnb in Europe for families. It includes insider tips on:
- How to find family-friendly listings
- What questions to ask before booking
- Red flags to avoid
- Why reviews matter more than star ratings
What to Look for When Booking:
- Proximity to public transportation – especially metros, trams, or buses
- Access to grocery stores or local markets – perfect for picking up water, snacks, and quick breakfasts
- Washer (and dryer, if possible) – even better if detergent is provided
- Reliable Wi-Fi – handy for route planning, streaming shows, or remote work/school
- Air conditioning – a must in the summer, especially in southern Europe
Considering Hotels?
While vacation rentals are usually our go-to, hotels can make sense in certain cities — especially for shorter stays or if you find a great deal with breakfast included. Some things to consider if you’re leaning toward hotels:
- Many European hotel rooms are smaller than what you might be used to in the U.S., so double-check room configurations if you’re traveling with more than two people.
- Family suites or connecting rooms are more common in larger cities and international hotel chains.
- Some hotels offer kitchenettes, laundry services, or free breakfast, which can help offset the cost of eating out.
If you’re staying only 1–2 nights in a destination, or arriving late in the evening, a hotel might be more convenient than navigating a rental check-in process.
Where to Stay in Each City:
We’ve put together guides to help you choose the best family-friendly neighborhoods in each of the cities included in this itinerary. Each guide includes recommendations based on safety, convenience, and proximity to top attractions:
- 📍 Where to Stay in London with Kids
- 📍 Where to Stay in Paris with Kids
- 📍 Where to Stay in Rome with Kids
- 📍 Where to Stay in Lisbon with Kids
- 📍 Where to Stay in the Algarve with Kids
Each of these guides breaks down which areas are best suited for families based on walkability, access to transit, and nearby attractions — so you can book with confidence.
How to Pack for 3 Weeks in Europe
Packing for three weeks in Europe might seem overwhelming at first, especially with kids — but it’s absolutely doable with a carry-on and a personal item per person. We’ve done it ourselves on multiple trips, and the key is packing versatile, layer-friendly basics that work across different climates.
Expect a Mix of Weather
This itinerary includes a range of climates:
- London can be cool, cloudy, or rainy even in summer.
- Rome and Lisbon tend to be warm and sunny.
- The Algarve means beach days, swimwear, and lots of sun.
Having a flexible packing strategy is essential. Think layers for London, light breathable clothing for Italy and Portugal, and swimsuits and sun protection for the Algarve.
Our Go-To Packing Strategy
We pack light and smart — one carry-on suitcase and one personal item per person. This keeps things simple during train rides, airport transfers, and hotel/rental check-ins.
Here’s how we made it work:
- Stick to a color palette: This makes mixing and matching outfits easy.
- Choose lightweight layers: Include a rain jacket, cardigan, or hoodie for cooler evenings.
- Go wrinkle-resistant: Fabrics like merino wool, performance blends, or quick-dry cotton are great.
- Use packing cubes: Helps organize outfits and makes unpacking a breeze.
- Wear your bulkiest items on travel days: Like sneakers or a jacket.
Staying in vacation rentals also helps since you often have access to laundry machines — allowing you to bring less and wash as needed. But even if you’re staying in hotels, you can pack light by choosing accommodations with laundry service or nearby laundromats.
We break down everything we pack — from essentials to nice-to-haves — in our complete Europe packing list for families. It includes:
- Adult and kid wardrobe suggestions
- Travel gear we actually use
- Space-saving tips for longer trips
- Printable checklist to make sure you don’t forget anything
Bonus Tips for Family Travel:
- Pack a light daypack or foldable tote for day trips and beach outings.
- Don’t forget portable chargers and universal adapters — especially helpful when traveling across multiple countries.
- Bring swimwear, sunscreen, and water shoes for Algarve beaches.
- Include a compact umbrella or poncho — especially useful in London or Paris.
Packing light not only saves money on budget flights but makes your entire trip more flexible and stress-free — especially when you’re moving through multiple destinations with kids in tow.
The Best Time to Go
For families, June is hands down the best time to visit Europe. School’s out, the weather is warm without being overwhelming, and you still beat the peak-season crush of July and August. It’s the sweet spot where travel feels exciting but not chaotic and that matters a lot when you’re navigating busy cities or keeping kids engaged on the go.
Not only are the days longer and the crowds more manageable, but flights and accommodations are often more affordable than later in the summer. You’ll also find that major attractions are open, yet lines aren’t unbearable giving you room to breathe and enjoy each destination at your own pace.
If you’re not tied to school schedules, September is another stellar option. You’ll get that perfect combination of:
- Lingering summer sunshine (especially in southern destinations like Rome and the Algarve)
- Thinner crowds
- Lower travel costs
- And a more relaxed local vibe after the summer rush
Shoulder season travel in June or September can make a big difference in the overall flow of your trip helping you avoid extreme heat, long waits, and inflated prices, while still making the most of everything Europe has to offer.
3 WEEK EUROPE TRIP ITINERARY
DAYS 1 AND 2
If you’re flying from the United States or Canada, you’ll likely have an overnight flight that arrives sometime in the morning. This takes up the first and part of the second day of your trip.
Once you arrive in London, it’ll be a great time to head out and see what’s in your area. If you’re up to it, you can even get a head start on the itinerary.
You’ll likely come in through either Gatwick or Heathrow which will require arranging transportation to the city center. Heathrow is closer, but if you’re taking a budget airline then you’ll likely come in Gatwick or Stansted.
London Highlights for Families: Castles, Markets, and the Underground
DAY 3 – LONDON
To get a feel for London, enjoy sweeping views of the London Eye, then explore Jubilee Gardens and Southbank. Cross Westminster Bridge for vistas of the Thames, Parliament, and Big Ben. Discover Westminster Abbey’s rich history with a guided tour.
Visit Buckingham Palace, timing your trip for the Changing of the Guard. Enjoy Hyde Park’s green spaces and Serpentine Galleries. Explore Kensington Palace’s royal apartments and exhibits with a tour.
Get some shopping in on Regent Street which has to include a visit to Hamleys toy store, and then see Piccadilly Circus’s dazzling night displays.
DAY 4 – LONDON
Start your day at the British Museum, exploring ancient civilizations from Egypt to Persia. Join specialized tours for a fun, educational experience for kids. Then, head to the vibrant Camden Town, with its colorful street art and creative energy.
Recharge at Camden Market, where you can sample gourmet burgers, international street food, and sweets while browsing unique stalls. End your day at Regent’s Park, enjoying the lush greenery, a zoo, gardens, and playgrounds. Cross the lake in a rowboat or watch open-air performances in the summer.
DAY 5 – LONDON
St. Paul’s Cathedral, designed by Sir Christopher Wren, is a Baroque masterpiece with one of the world’s largest domes. It has hosted significant events like Churchill’s and Princess Diana’s funerals.
Climb 528 steps for stunning London views and explore the intricate interior, including the Whispering Gallery. Cross the Millennium Bridge for river and landmark views, then visit Borough Market for gourmet treats and a chance to sample some of the best food that London has to offer.
Discover Tower Bridge’s history and enjoy its panoramic glass floor walkway. At the Tower of London, explore its historic chambers and the Crown Jewels. This was one of the highlights of our visit, so make sure you give yourself enough time.
Finally, visit the Sky Garden for free panoramic views and a lush indoor garden. Even though the entrance is free, be sure to book a ticket.
DAY 6 – LONDON TO PARIS
The simplest way to travel from London to Paris is by train. However, this option can sometimes be more costly than flying. There are several choices available, but it’s advisable to book your tickets well in advance, as prices tend to rise steeply as the travel date approaches.
The train departs from St. Pancras Railway Station in London and arrives at Gare du Nord in Paris. A direct train ride takes just over 2 hours.
Family-Friendly Paris: Iconic Sights and Sweet Surprises
DAY 7 – PARIS
Begin your Paris adventure with the iconic Eiffel Tower, accessible via the Trocadero metro station. Enjoy breathtaking views from Trocadero and the nearby Champ de Mars, and don’t miss the charming carousel. The kids will love it!
From the Eiffel Tower head over to the grand Arc de Triomphe. It’s not enough to just see it from the outside, purchase entry tickets to get a closer look. Ascend the 284 steps of the Arc de Triomphe for panoramic views of Paris, including the Eiffel Tower and Champs-Élysées.
Explore the Champs-Élysées for shopping and Parisian charm. At the Louvre, marvel at masterpieces like the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo, and plan your visit to avoid crowds. Relaxing at the peaceful Jardins des Tuileries is a great way to end your day as it features a carousel, duck pond, and playground.
DAY 8 – PARIS
Families love Luxembourg Gardens for sailing toy boats, picnicking, and admiring the fountains and statues against the backdrop of Palais du Luxembourg.
Afterward, explore the Latin Quarter’s charming cobblestone streets, quaint bookstores, cafes, and landmarks like the Pantheon and Shakespeare and Company.
The Catacombs of Paris offer a unique glimpse into the city’s history and engineering marvels. Despite its fire damage, Notre Dame remains a symbol of French Gothic architecture and history.
A Seine River cruise from the Eiffel Tower to Notre Dame provides stunning views, especially at sunset, making it an unforgettable experience.
DAY 9 – PARIS
Just outside Paris lies the opulent Palace of Versailles, built by King Louis XIV in French Baroque style. Tour the palace to see the Hall of Mirrors, the Royal Chapel, and the royal chambers.
Explore the vast, meticulously manicured Palace Gardens. Travel to Versailles via the RER C train to Versailles Rive Gauche station, then walk 10-15 minutes to the palace.
Back in Paris, visit Montmartre, known for its bohemian atmosphere and artistic heritage. Explore art studios, galleries, and the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, which offers panoramic city views.
DAY 10 – PARIS TO ROME
The flight to Rome is about 2 hours. Once in Rome take the train from Fiumicino to Termini Station. You can then catch a cab to your accommodations. While the flight is fairly short, travel days tend to take a lot of time and energy with kids.
The good thing about Rome is that if you’re staying in or near the Historic Center, you’ll be around some amazing architecture and food. So an evening stroll would be a great way to start your time in Rome.
What to Do in Rome with Kids: History, Piazzas, and Pizza
DAY 11 – ROME
Start your day in Rome at Borghese Gardens, perfect for biking, hiking, or rowing on the pond. Families will love the playgrounds and the peaceful environment. Next, visit the Borghese Gallery, home to masterpieces by Bernini and Caravaggio. Book tickets in advance to avoid crowds.
After the gallery, head west to Pincio Terrace for stunning city views. Descend to Piazza del Popolo, a grand square with historic churches and an ancient Roman gate.
Walk to the Spanish Steps for a panoramic view, then to Trevi Fountain, best visited early morning or night. End at Piazza Navona, with its three magnificent fountains and impressive architecture.
DAY 12 – ROME
Rome’s Colosseum, a must-see landmark, requires advance tickets to avoid long waits. Families especially benefit from early bookings. Inside, explore its ancient grandeur firsthand, with guided tours available that provide more information regarding the site.
Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum are nearby and complement the experience; combined tickets or audio guides are recommended for these sites since there is little in the way of explanation or signage.
Trastevere, a charming district, offers strolls and family-friendly spots like Piazza di San Cosimato’s playground. Visit Basilica di Santa Maria and Janiculum Hill for stunning city views. Villa Doria Pamphili, a serene park, promises relaxation amid panoramic vistas.
DAY 13 – ROME
Explore Rome’s vibrant scenes starting at Campo de Fiori, renowned for its diverse market of local foods, colorful flowers, and unique goods. Arrive early to catch the bustling morning activity before it closes in the afternoon.
Nearby, the Jewish Quarter offers a rich cultural tapestry and authentic Jewish-Italian cuisine among its historic narrow streets.
Continue to Vatican City, where art and architectural grandeur await at St. Peter’s Square, the Vatican Museums, and St. Peter’s Basilica, with guided tours available to enhance the experience.
Conclude your journey at Castel Sant’Angelo, a historic fortress with captivating tales and stunning rooftop views of the city.
DAY 14 – ROME TO LISBON
Take the train from Termini Station to Fiumicino Airport. You can book an inexpensive flight from Rome to Lisbon using the same carriers that you used from Paris to Rome.
Exploring Lisbon as a Family: Trams, Tiles, and Ocean Views
DAY 15 – LISBON
Starting on Lisbon’s tree-lined Avenue da Liberdade, near Restauradores Square, your day begins among high-end shops and scenic spots perfect for breaks. The nearby Praca Dom Pedro IV, with its grand monument and theater, is a perfect spot for pictures.
Nearby, is the famed Santa Justa Lift, an architectural marvel. You can either take a ride to the top or simply take the steps to enjoy the view. Continuing to the bustling Chiado neighborhood provides a great opportunity to shop.
There are well-known brands, stores, and local spots. While you’re in the area you have to stop in Bertrand Bookstore, the world’s oldest operating bookstore, which presents a charming selection of books and souvenirs.
Your day concludes at Carmo Convent, a historical site with an open-roofed museum, offering a unique glimpse into Lisbon’s past for just 5 euros per adult.
DAY 16 – LISBON
To visit Lisbon’s Jeronimos Monastery, take a 30-minute tram ride from Praca Comercio, arriving directly in front. You can pre-purchase tickets to ensure that you can enter but don’t expect to skip the line.
Inside, the monastery dazzled with its intricate architecture and vast hallways. A short bus ride away is Belem Tower, surrounded by scenic paths and panoramic views, offering a perfect photo backdrop without feeling crowded. If you want a closer look, you can book a tour to enter the Tower.
Nearby is Pasteis de Belem, the home of the famous pasteis de nata.
Once you’re back to the Lisbon city center head down Rua Augusta, the vibrant pedestrian street which leads to the iconic Arco da Rua Augusta, celebrating Lisbon’s recovery from the 1755 earthquake.
This route ends at Praca do Comercio, a historic square with sweeping views, and nearby Cais das Colunas, a picturesque riverside spot with views of the April 25th Bridge, providing a grand conclusion to our city tour.
DAY 17 – LISBON
Exploring Lisbon starts ideally with a tram ride on the scenic Tram 28 or its less crowded counterpart, Tram 12, especially useful for families navigating the steep ascent to Alfama.
The city’s famous viewpoints, like Miradouro das Portas do Sol and Miradouro de Santa Luzia, offer stunning city and river vistas, with Portas do Sol providing expansive views and Santa Luzia a more intimate setting with a flower-adorned terrace.
A highlight of Alfama is Castelo de Sao Jorge. You can purchase tickets ahead of time to avoid the long lines which allows for more time to explore its vast grounds, peacock-inhabited interiors, and panoramic views.
The extra time that you spend at the castle will be worth it. It’s a thoroughly fascinating place to visit. Nearby, Lisbon Cathedral and the Alfama district’s winding streets await, giving you a wonderful dose of history, and architecture and the chance to explore.
DAY 18 – LISBON TO LAGOS
While you can take a train or bus to Lagos from Lisbon, the best way to get there is to rent a car and make the drive.
The Algarve Family Itinerary: Beach Time, Caves, and Coastal Charm
DAY 19 – LAGOS/ALGARVE
Start the day with about a 40 minute drive from Lagos to Carvoeiro, a picturesque coastal town in the Algarve, which boasts a stunning beach with white-painted homes cascading down the hills, creating a breathtaking backdrop. The town center features a variety of shops and restaurants just up from the beach.
Nearby, the Carvoeiro Boardwalk offers panoramic views of the Atlantic and leads to Algar Seco, a striking rock formation with accessible caves and natural swimming pools.
For a unique, exciting experience, consider a boat tour of the famous Benagil Caves. We opted for a 90-minute speedboat tour with Carvoeiro Caves Tours, which was ideal for navigating the caves and keeping our kids engaged. It was an unforgettable experience!
DAY 20 – LAGOS/ALGARVE
Praia da Marinha, acclaimed as one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, captivates with its turquoise waters, golden sands, and stunning limestone cliffs, highlighted by the iconic “M” rock formation. Make sure you have enough time to fully enjoy this remarkable spot.
Nearby, Ponta de Piedade in Lagos offers breathtaking cliffs and rock formations, with opportunities for boat tours exploring the region’s abundant caves and grottoes.
In Lagos, the vibrant Old Town is full of colorful buildings and lively streets. It’s the home to the Green House in a bustling square, surrounded by shops and restaurants, making it a family-friendly destination to explore and enjoy.
DAY 21 – LAGOS/ALGARVE
Praia da Camilo, close to Ponte de Piedade, is a small, scenic beach known for its connecting tunnel and a long staircase, making access challenging for strollers and young children.
There are no facilities on this beach, but the view from above and a nearby stroller-friendly boardwalk offer good alternatives. Praia Dona Ana is ideal for families, featuring changing facilities and gentle waves, though it also requires descending stairs.
Sagres, about a half-hour drive west of Lagos, is a stunning natural area at Europe’s southwesternmost point, where you can explore a fortress, and a lighthouse, and enjoy rugged coastal scenery.
DAY 22 – RETURN HOME
The airport that serves the Algarve region is located in Faro. From Lagos, it’s approximately an hour’s drive. Of course, if you stay in some of the towns closer to Faro, the drive will be shorter.
Enjoy Your Three Weeks In Europe
A three-week vacation in Europe promises an exciting experience for your family. With our itinerary and tips, you’ll be well-equipped for an incredible journey. Before you set off, be sure to check out our Ultimate European Summer Bucket List for 2025 and our Ultimate Guide on How to Plan a Family Trip to Europe for even more ideas and insights to help you plan your adventure. Safe travels!
