Europe makes a fantastic destination for a family vacation, and a four-week itinerary offers the perfect opportunity to explore a variety of captivating spots. If you’re wondering which places to visit and how to organize such an unforgettable journey, check out our comprehensive 4-week Europe itinerary along with useful tips to help you start planning your family’s epic adventure!
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DESTINATIONS INCLUDED
Each city and region in this itinerary offers something unique, providing a diverse European experience.
London boasts an incredible selection of museums, iconic landmarks, and rich history.
Paris captivates with its culture, food, and must-see spots like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and the Palace of Versailles.
Rome is my all-time favorite, combining breathtaking sites, rich history, and fantastic cuisine, making it ideal for exploring on foot.
Naples has an authentic, lived in feel. It’s rough around the edges but it’s an experience unlike any other.
Lisbon charmed us with its character and compact layout, allowing you to be experience the city in just a few days, along with great food.
Lagos and the Algarve offer a change of pace with a small-town feel and stunning natural landscapes, including beautiful beaches, providing the perfect setting to relax and wrap up your European adventure.
This combination of destinations gives a wonderful taste of Europe without extensive travel between cities.
4 WEEK EUROPE TRIP ITINERARY
DAYS 1 AND 2
If you’re flying from the U.S. or Canada, expect an overnight flight that will likely arrive in the morning which will take up the first and part of the second day of your trip.
Once you land in London, it’s a good idea to explore the local area or even get a head start on the itinerary if you’re feeling up to it. You’ll most likely arrive at either Gatwick or Heathrow airport, which will require arranging transport to the city center.
Heathrow is closer, but budget airlines often fly into Gatwick or Stansted.
LONDON
DAY 3
Start your London adventure with a scenic walk across Westminster Bridge, which offers panoramic views of the Thames River, the London Eye, and the historic Houses of Parliament with Big Ben.
Nearby, Victoria Tower Gardens and Horseferry Playground provide green spaces for relaxation, family playtime, and a walk along the Thames. Continue your journey at Westminster Abbey, a historic site of British coronations and royal events. An audio tour will give you some interesting background info, so book in advance.
Next, take a ride on the London Eye, where you can enjoy breathtaking skyline views of London.
Afterward, head to Trafalgar Square to admire Nelson’s Column and explore the European art collection at the National Gallery.
For a taste of London’s multicultural flair, explore Chinatown’s vibrant streets, savoring traditional Asian cuisine.
Conclude your day in Covent Garden, where trendy cafes, local pubs, diverse shops, and culinary delights create a lively atmosphere.
DAY 4
Begin at the British Museum, where you can dive deep into global history, from ancient Egypt to Persia—an educational experience for all ages.
Then, immerse yourself in the artistic and eclectic scene of Camden Town, characterized by its vibrant street art and murals.
Recharge at Camden Market, exploring an array of street food and unique stalls offering artisanal crafts and vintage finds.
End your day surrounded by the tranquility of The Regent’s Park, where playgrounds, scenic pathways, a zoo, and open-air summer performances provide entertainment for the whole family.
DAY 5
Start your day with a royal experience at Buckingham Palace, and time your visit with the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
Next, explore the natural beauty of Hyde Park, where boat rides on the lake and hidden gems like the Diana Memorial Fountain provide family-friendly fun.
Continue to Kensington Palace to explore its gardens and state apartments, where exhibitions detail the palace’s royal history.
Head to Regent Street for a premier shopping experience amidst stunning Victorian and Georgian architecture, housing luxury and flagship stores. One of the highlights of our visit was Hamleys, the world’s largest and oldest toy store. It’s a guaranteed hit with the kids.
Finally, stroll down to the lively Piccadilly Circus, best enjoyed at night when the square is lit up with electronic displays.
DAY 6
Visit St. Paul’s Cathedral, an architectural marvel with a rich history. Climb to the top of the dome for sweeping views of London and explore the intricate carvings, mosaics, and sculptures inside.
Then, walk across the Millennium Bridge, taking in views of the Thames, Tate Modern, and Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre.
Satisfy your taste buds at Borough Market, sampling a wide variety of global delicacies amidst its historic stalls.
Continue to Tower Bridge, where interactive exhibits, panoramic views from the glass floor, and the storied engine rooms tell the tale of London’s maritime heritage.
A visit to the Tower of London reveals a labyrinth of corridors, regal chambers, and the Crown Jewels, offering a journey through British history. This is a can’t miss!
Conclude your day at Sky Garden, a lush observation deck atop the Walkie-Talkie Building, where you can reserve tickets for a sunset view over London’s skyline.
DAY 7 – LONDON TO PARIS
The easiest way to travel from London to Paris is by train, although it can sometimes be more expensive than flying. While there are multiple options available, it’s best to book your tickets well in advance, as prices tend to increase significantly as the travel date gets closer.
The train departs from St. Pancras Railway Station in London and arrives at Gare du Nord in Paris, with the direct journey taking just over 2 hours.
From there, you can take the Metro to your accommodations and begin your stay in the City of Lights. The Paris Metro is also the preferred way for getting around the city.
PARIS
DAY 8
Kick off your Paris adventure with a visit to the iconic Eiffel Tower. Start at Trocadero station for a spectacular view of the tower across the river, with an equally stunning perspective from Champ de Mars. Families will enjoy a stop at the carousel near the tower, and tickets are available for those who want to get up close.
Next, head to the Arc de Triomphe, where you can climb 284 steps to an observation deck with some of the best views of Paris, including the Eiffel Tower and the Champs-Élysées.
Continue along this glamorous avenue, which offers both luxury and affordable shopping opportunities.
Then, explore the Louvre, home to masterpieces like the Mona Lisa, the Coronation of Napolean and the Winged Victory of Samothrace. Download a floor plan to navigate the vast museum, and consider using alternate entrances to avoid long lines.
For a peaceful break, unwind at the Jardins des Tuileries, a picturesque park with a carousel, pond, and playground, perfect for relaxation and fun for families.
DAY 9
Begin your day at Luxembourg Gardens, a beautiful green space perfect for families to enjoy activities like sailing toy boats, picnicking, and strolling past fountains and statues, all set against the backdrop of the Palais du Luxembourg.
Next, explore the Latin Quarter by foot, known for its cobblestone streets, quaint bookstores, charming cafes, and landmarks like the Pantheon and Sorbonne University.
Continue to the Catacombs of Paris for an underground tour of 19th-century tunnels, offering a unique perspective on the city’s history.
Although currently closed, Notre Dame Cathedral is still a must-see for its stunning Gothic architecture and historical significance.
Finish the day with a sunset cruise on the Seine River for an unforgettable experience as you watch the city light up.
DAY 10
Take a trip to the Palace of Versailles, a stunning palace just outside Paris, renowned for its French Baroque architecture, Hall of Mirrors, Royal Chapel, and the meticulously manicured Palace Gardens.
You can reach the Palace by taking the RER C train to Versailles Rive Gauche station, with a short walk to the palace. Make sure you’re familiar with the route since the RER operates separately from the Paris metro.
Returning to the city, spend the rest of your day exploring Montmartre, a historic district known for its bohemian vibe, art studios, and galleries.
Climb to the Sacré-Cœur Basilica for panoramic views of Paris, and soak in the creative atmosphere of this picturesque neighborhood.
DAY 11 – PARIS TO ROME
The flight to Rome takes around 2 hours. Once you arrive, take the train from Fiumicino Airport to Termini Station, where you can then grab a cab to your accommodations.
Although the flight itself is relatively short, travel days can be time-consuming and draining, especially with kids. The good news is that if you’re staying in or near the Historic Center of Rome, you’ll be surrounded by stunning architecture and fantastic food.
An evening stroll is a perfect way to introduce yourself to Rome.
ROME
DAY 12
Start your morning in Rome with a visit to the Borghese Gardens, an ideal spot for families to enjoy nature, whether by bike, rowboat, or simply walking the tree lined paths.
Within the gardens, the Borghese Gallery awaits, filled with masterpieces by artists like Bernini and Caravaggio—advance tickets are recommended.
Next, head to Pincio Terrace for panoramic views of Rome, and then descend to Piazza del Popolo, framed by historic churches and ancient gates.
Follow Via del Corso to the Spanish Steps, a world-famous landmark with breathtaking views from the top.
Continue to the Trevi Fountain, a Baroque masterpiece, which is best experienced in both the early morning and nighttime.
Visit the Pantheon to admire its engineering and architecture, taking time to marvel at its massive doors and iconic oculus.
End your day at Piazza Navona, where three stunning fountains and lively ambiance create the perfect conclusion to a day of exploration.
DAY 13
What better way to start your day than with the iconic Colosseum. Pre-book tickets to avoid lines and consider a guided tour to uncover the amphitheater’s history. A visit to the Colosseum will likely be the highlight of your visit to Rome.
Nearby, explore Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum, a journey through ancient ruins best experienced with a guide for a deeper understanding of Rome’s history.
Continue to the Vittorio Emanuele II Monument, a massive and stunning landmark offering panoramic views from its terrace.
Just across the street, the Mercati di Traiano Museo dei Fori Imperiali showcases ancient Roman artifacts, providing a glimpse into the customs of ancient Rome.
DAY 14
Start at Campo de’ Fiori, a lively market filled with fresh produce, flowers, and local goods—ideal for finding unique souvenirs.
Afterward, wander through the historic Jewish Quarter, where narrow streets, authentic cuisine, and rich cultural history offer a memorable experience.
Next, head to Vatican City by crossing the Vittorio Emanuele Bridge over the Tiber River. It’s here that you’ll find the famous Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica.
Finally, visit Castel Sant’Angelo, an ancient fortress with fascinating history and stunning rooftop views over Rome and Vatican City—a hidden gem that offers an exciting adventure through time.
DAY 15
Visit the Baths of Caracalla, one of Rome’s best-preserved ancient bath complexes, to experience Roman social life and architecture.
Afterward, head toward Trastevere, a charming neighborhood known for its lively atmosphere, family-friendly cafes, and gelaterias.
Make your way to Piazza di San Cosimato and its playground, and don’t miss the Basilica di Santa Maria, a focal point of the area.
For stunning views, hike up Janiculum Hill or relax in the peaceful Villa Doria Pamphili park.
Trastevere is the perfect place to spend a leisurely afternoon and evening, soaking in local culture and beautiful scenery.
DAY 16 – ROME TO NAPLES
Traveling from Rome to Naples is an easy trip to make. Multiple high-speed trains depart from Rome’s Termini station, reaching Naples in about an hour.
Upon arrival at Napoli Centrale station, you’ll need to head to Garibaldi Metro Station, which provides access to the metro for navigating around the city. For more detailed information, check out our comprehensive guide on traveling from Rome to Naples.
NAPLES
DAY 17
Begin your journey in Naples by heading to Napoli Sotterranea, an underground tour that reveals the city’s hidden aqueducts, tunnels, and wartime shelters, offering a unique glimpse into its rich history.
Then head to Piazza del Plebiscito, Naples’ largest square, dominated by the Royal Palace and Basilica di San Francesco di Paola, both full of history.
Visit the Royal Palace of Naples to marvel at its stunning architecture, opulent throne room, and royal apartments on a guided tour.
Afterward, take a leisurely walk along Via Nazario Sauro by the Bay of Naples, offering picturesque views of Mount Vesuvius and the Fontana del Gigante.
Though Castel dell’Ovo is closed, it’s a medieval gem to keep on your radar for future visits.
Wrap up the day at Villa Comunale di Napoli, a serene green space perfect for unwinding or letting children play.
DAY 18
Take a quick train ride from Napoli Centrale to either Pompeii or Herculaneum, both remarkable archaeological sites showcasing ancient Roman life.
Pompeii’s vast ruins draw large crowds, while Herculaneum offers a more compact experience. Equip yourself with an audio guide or join a guided tour for a more detailed experience. Be sure to plan well for limited shade and hot weather so that you can stay long enough to enjoy the site.
In the afternoon, relax at Bagno Elena, a family-friendly city beach with shallow waters and gentle waves. Bagno Elena is easily reachable by bus routes like the 151 or 140, making it a perfect spot for a beach break.
DAY 19
Visit the Naples National Archaeological Museum, which houses a rich collection of artifacts from Pompeii, Herculaneum, and beyond, offering insight into the region’s Roman and Greek history.
After exploring the museum, take a bus from Via Santa Maria di Constantinapoli or enjoy a 15-minute walk to Naples’ vibrant historic center.
Stroll through Spaccanapoli, the city’s lively central district filled with stunning architecture, bustling markets, eclectic shops, and delicious eateries.
Indulge in a slice of the city’s famous Pizza Margherita at renowned spots like L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele or other pizzerias in the area, for an authentic taste of Naples.
DAY 20 – NAPLES TO LISBON
The flight from Naples to Lisbon takes about 3 hours. Once you land, you can take the metro or a taxi from the airport to your accommodations. While the flight is fairly quick, travel days can still be tiring, especially with kids.
The upside is that once you arrive in Lisbon, you’ll find yourself surrounded by beautiful architecture, charming streets, and fantastic food. Taking an evening walk through the city’s lively neighborhoods is the perfect way to begin your Lisbon adventure.
LISBON
DAY 21
Start your day on Avenida da Liberdade, a beautiful tree-lined boulevard perfect for strolling, shopping, or relaxing on benches.
Continue south to Restauradores Square, an elegant plaza surrounded by splendid buildings and a grand monument.
Nearby, Praca Dom Pedro IV impresses with its central fountains, monument, and the Queen Maria II National Theatre. Stroll along the square to find numerous restaurants for a meal or a break.
From there, head southwest to the Santa Justa Lift—a stunning architectural marvel. Although we didn’t take the lift, it’s worth admiring or climbing the nearby stairs for the view.
Continue to the Chiado district for a shopping spree at popular stores like H&M, ZARA, and Nike.
Stop by Bertrand Bookstore, the oldest operating bookstore in the world, for a memorable souvenir. We did just that and not only purchased a book but got a complementary bag, bookmark and a stamp in our book!
Climb the hill to Carmo Convent, where you’ll find a unique open-roofed church with sweeping outdoor views and an on-site museum.
DAY 22
Travel west to Jerónimos Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Reachable by the 15E tram from Praca do Comercio, this stunning structure, filled with intricate designs and arches, is a must-see. While pre-purchased tickets don’t skip the line, the wait is manageable, and entry is free for children under 11. This is an absolutely amazing site, the design and architecture are phenomenal, we loved our visit here.
A short bus ride or walk brings you to the iconic Belem Tower. Surrounded by scenic pathways and panoramic views, this landmark is a popular photo spot with plenty of space to enjoy.
Don’t miss trying the famous Pasteis de Nata from Pasteis de Belem, located near the monastery before you head back to central Lisbon.
For a lively experience, explore Rua Augusta, a bustling pedestrian street filled with shops and eateries, leading you to the impressive Arco da Rua Augusta and the expansive Praca do Comercio.
Finish your day at Cais das Colunas, a picturesque pier overlooking the river and the city’s bridge.
DAY 23
Take Tram 28 (or the less crowded Tram 12) from Baixa to Alfama, bypassing the steep uphill walk and enjoying a scenic route.
Stop at Miradouro das Portas do Sol for panoramic views of Lisbon and the river. A nearby staircase leads through the heart of Alfama, for a scenic walk through one of Lisbon’s most charming neighborhoods.
Just a short walk away is Miradouro de Santa Luzia, a more intimate viewpoint with vibrant flowers, shaded seating, and breathtaking views.
From here, ascend to Castelo de Sao Jorge, one of Lisbon’s highlights, offering incredible city views from its hilltop position. Wander along castle walls, explore interior staircases, and enjoy the resident peacocks. A stop here was a pleasant surprise for our family.
A visit to Lisbon Cathedral follows, offering Gothic architecture, soaring ceilings, and a balcony with sweeping city views.
End the day exploring Alfama’s winding streets, soaking up the neighborhood’s unique character, and discovering its hidden gems beyond the well-known landmarks.
DAY 24 – LISBON TO LAGOS
The best way to travel from Lisbon to the Algarve is by car, a straightforward three-hour drive. Take the A2 southbound, follow signs for the Algarve, then continue on the A22 West, and finally take the N120 to Lagos
To find the best rental deals, book online in advance and use comparison sites. Most reservations offer flexible cancellation and don’t require upfront payment. You’ll save more if you can drive a manual.
Remember to bring your passport, driver’s license, and credit card when picking up your rental.
LAGOS/ALGARVE
DAY 25
Begin your Algarve adventure in Carvoeiro, a charming coastal town with stunning white-painted homes cascading down to a picturesque beach.
Wander the nearby streets filled with shops and restaurants before heading to the Carvoeiro Boardwalk. This scenic, family-friendly path offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and leads to the impressive rock formations of Algar Seco.
Explore its cliffs, tunnels, and caves, especially the Boneca Cave with its stunning ocean views.
From Carvoeiro, take a boat tour of the renowned Benagil Caves—Carvoeiro Caves Tours offers a thrilling 90-minute speedboat tour perfect for families, ensuring an up-close experience of these iconic natural wonders.
DAY 26
Spend the morning at Praia da Marinha, one of the Algarve’s most beautiful beaches, renowned for its turquoise waters, golden sands, and limestone cliffs. Marvel at the “M” rock formation and take your time soaking in the breathtaking scenery.
After your beach time, head back towards Lagos to visit Ponta da Piedade, a stunning area of cliffs, rock formations, and grottos, perfect for exploring either on foot or via boat. The undeveloped landscape offers a wild, natural feel, and the sea-level steps provide easy access for closer views.
Back in town, explore the charming Green House area, surrounded by shops, restaurants, and winding streets, before wandering through the vibrant Old Town Lagos, filled with colorful buildings, lively street life, and local cuisine.
DAY 27
Start your day at Praia da Camilo, a small yet scenic beach near Ponta da Piedade. While the beach has limited space and some seaweed, it features a unique tunnel connecting both sides.
There are steep stairs leading down to the beach, making it less accessible for strollers and very young children. If you prefer to stay up top, you can still enjoy the views and take a walk along the boardwalk.
For a more family-friendly beach experience, head to Praia Dona Ana, known for its gentle waves and great facilities, including changing rooms and outdoor showers. The Atlantic waters are refreshing on warm days, and kids will enjoy playing in the mild surf.
Conclude your day with a trip to Sagres, the southwesternmost point of Europe. This rugged, wind-swept area features jagged cliffs meeting the Atlantic Ocean, offering a sense of adventure and breathtaking scenery.
While in Sagres, explore the fortress, lighthouse, town, and nearby beaches to fully experience this edge-of-the-world destination.
DAY 28 – RETURN HOME
The Algarve region is served by Faro Airport, about an hour’s drive from Lagos. If you’re staying in towns closer to Faro, the drive will naturally be shorter.
FLIGHTS TO EUROPE
There are a couple of options for booking flights to Europe. One approach is to fly in and out of London, which often has the most flight options and budget-friendly fares. In this case, you’d book a round-trip flight to London and, at the end of your trip in Lagos, take a one-way flight back to London for your return.
Another option is to book an open-jaw or multi-city flight, meaning you arrive in London but depart from a different city—Faro, the airport for the Algarve region, in this case.
We’ve used both strategies, choosing based on cost, convenience, and flight times, and each has worked well.
CONNECTING BETWEEN LOCATIONS
To travel from London to Paris, the train is the best option. We’ve found that traveling by train in Europe is much more convenient than flying, with less hassle getting to and from stations, fewer security checks and delays, and more flexibility with arrival times.
From Paris to Rome and then Naples to Lisbon, flights are the easiest option. Budget airlines like EasyJet and Ryanair offer cost-effective options, though it’s important to be aware of luggage restrictions and potential fees. We typically travel with just carry-ons and personal items, but checked bags may incur additional costs.
To get from Rome to Naples it’s easy to take a train from Termini Station to Naples. The ride is just over an hour and will take you to Naples’ central train station.
To get from Lisbon to Lagos in the Algarve, renting a car is ideal. The drive takes about three hours and gives you the flexibility to explore the region, as many of the best spots in the Algarve are car-accessible only, with limited public transportation options.
ACCOMMODATIONS
For our family of four, vacation rentals have proven to be the best choice for extended trips like a four-week tour of Europe. Rentals provide more space, allowing everyone to have their own bed and room to relax, and they often give a more authentic experience compared to hotels.
When choosing accommodations, we consider proximity to public transportation and local markets for easy access to snacks, water, and essentials. For recommendations on the best areas to stay, check out our guides for accommodations in London, Paris, Rome, Naples, Lisbon, and the Algarve.
HOW TO PACK FOR 4 WEEKS IN EUROPE
Your packing list for Europe will depend on the destinations in your itinerary, as you’ll encounter varying climates. London may be cool and rainy even in early summer, while Rome and Naples can be quite warm, and the Algarve is all about sunshine and beach days.
Our family has taken extended trips across Europe, managing to pack everything from sweaters to flip-flops and swimwear in just a carry-on and a personal item per person. We achieved this by sticking to basics—clothing that’s easy to wash, versatile, and can be mixed and matched.
While this is easier to manage in a vacation rental, it’s doable when staying in hotels too.
For essential space-saving tips for long vacations, check out this article. For more detailed packing advice, refer to our packing lists for London, Italy, and Portugal.
THE BEST TIME TO GO
The ideal time to follow this itinerary is in June. This month is great for families since kids are out of school, and it’s just outside the peak travel season, although crowds are starting to arrive.
You’ll find that prices are still reasonable, and popular landmarks are not yet overcrowded. Plus, you’ll have more flexibility in choosing your preferred accommodations.
While the weather in London and Paris may be mild, Rome, Naples and the Algarve will already be warming up, making June an excellent time for a European adventure.
ENJOY YOUR FOUR WEEKS IN EUROPE
A four-week European vacation promises unforgettable memories for your family. With our itinerary and tips, you’ll be set for an incredible journey. Before you head off, don’t forget to check out our essential guide to planning a family trip to Europe, packed with insights to help you organize an amazing adventure. Safe travels!
