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Travellers in Paris in front of the Arc de Triomphe

Amelia's Best of Europe Trip: 8 Must-Do's

Amelia's profile picture in Bergamo

By Amelia Bristow

Last updated: 16th October 2024

I’m still daydreaming about my experience on Gap 360’s Best of Europe group trip… and soon enough you’ll understand why. Over 16 days, I had the ultimate Euro summer and ticked off bucket list destinations like Paris, Rome, Berlin, and more!

Get ready for a whirlwind of jaw-dropping moments, breathtaking destinations and extraordinary experiences as I tell you about my epic European journey. Trust me when I say the Best of Europe trip says it all in the name. So, let’s dive into each destination’s must-dos on this incredible group trip!

 

1. Amsterdam 🚲 

Group of travellers at A'Dam Tower in Amsterdam

First up is Amsterdam… Wander the canals and immerse yourself in this beautiful city. Stop off at a local bar after a day of exploring and get the refreshing taste of beer. Chat with your newly made friends from the trip and tuck into some of the Netherlands’ traditional snacks called bitterballen. These tasty nibbles are served hot and are similar to fried croquettes. 

Amsterdam offers a lot of different museums, where you can learn about this destination on a deeper level. For wholesome daytime activities, I would suggest going to the Van Gogh Museum and the Tulip Museum (the national flower of the Netherlands). Why not blend in with the locals and hop on a bike to travel between museums? 

Are you looking for the best views of the city? Book tickets for A’dam Tower and have a thrilling evening on the highest swing in Amsterdam! Swing away from the edge and admire the views while suspended over the cityscape. A moment you won’t ever forget.

Must-do: A’dam Tower Swing 

2. Berlin 🍻

Group of travellers in Berlin smiling in front of the Brandenburg Gate

Next on the Best of Europe route is a city filled with history, renowned monuments, and nightlife like no other. Of course, it’s Berlin!

Explore the city and learn about the fascinating history of the World Wars, plus the unbelievable existence of the Berlin Wall. Walk around on a historical tour and see the monuments like the enormous Brandenburg Gate in all its glory, hear the captivating stories about Checkpoint Charlie and admire the graffiti on the East Side Gallery.   

After watching the sunset over Berlin TV Tower, your evening’s only just getting started! Throw on your best black clothes to blend in with the Berlin vibes and get ready to hit some mega-cool bars and clubs…

Must-do: Historical tour  📜

3. Prague 🗡️

Three travellers at Prague's castle that overlooks the city

Prague completely stole my heart! So, be prepared for it to steal yours. There are so many sites to see in this gorgeously preserved medieval city. From the breathtaking Castle overlooking the city to charming Charles Bridge and the Astronomical clock, the architecture will have you in absolute awe. The best way to sightsee is on a peaceful river cruise along the Vltrara. Drift along the river through this quaint city and admire the surrounding sites.

When in the Old Town to grab some traditional pastries - trdelnik! Or, really indulge and go for a traditional dinner at a Czech restaurant and tuck into a pork knuckle, dumplings, and more. Yum!

Must-do: Vltrara river cruise 🛥️

4. Venice 🎭

Canals in Venice with gondolas floating along them

Venice is one of the most iconic cities in Europe. The city rests on 118 islands (get ready to get those steps in!) making it a one-of-a-kind destination to wander and immerse yourself in. Stop by the Piazza San Marco to admire the stunning Doge’s Palace and Saint Mark’s Basilica. Afterwards, walk over the beautiful Ponte di Rialto, a unique bridge designed to have shops along it. See if you can resist the temptation to purchase the bedazzling jewellery glistening in the windows.

If you have worked up an appetite with the walking, you’re in luck, considering we are in Italy the food options are endless… Menus are bursting with different types of pizzas, pasta, and gelato. Seek a restaurant in the hidden streets and tuck into delicious traditional dishes. Or, try out some Italian tapas called Cicchetti! It’s a classic Venetian cuisine often had with an aperitivo. Yum!

Of course, our trip to Venice is incomplete without a traditional ride in a gondola! Get seated and drift along the gracious canals. Admire the glimpses of the quaint streets and pretty churches throughout your journey. Once the serene ride has finished, grab a refreshing Aperol Spritz and take an Italian moment while you people-watch. 

Must-do: Gondola ride 🤩

5. Rome 🍝

Trevi Foundation during the day in Rome

This destination for sure makes the Best of Europe group trip unforgettable! From ancient monuments filled with epic history to mouthwatering authentic Italian meals, you're bound to have a good time in Rome! 

Be sure to visit the Colosseum and the Roman Forum. Hear the stories of the gladiators and emperors! Walk inside the Colosseum and see for yourselves the magnificent structure of the arena, imagine the roaring crowds and mindblowing events held here. It truly is one-of-a-kind! 

If you fancy doing a trendy activity, join a fun pasta-making class and laugh with your mates over everyone's terrible skills (you’ll be a pasta-making pro by the end of the night!)! After tucking into your delicious homemade dishes, head out to Piazza Trilussa. Here, you can party with the locals, soak up the wholesome vibes and sing along to classic tunes.

Must-do: Touring the Colosseum 👀

6. Florence 🌅

Group of travellers during the sunset in Florence

Florence will live up to your Italian dreams and more! The city is endlessly romantic everywhere you turn, with quaint houses, authentic leather shops, glistening jewellery in windows, the breathtaking Duomo and the views of the Tuscan countryside surrounding the city. Nothing will ever beat Florence in Europe. 

Take your mates to the Piazzale Michelangelo to get immaculate panoramic views of the enchanting city during a sunset. From here you can see everything! Grab some drinks from the local stalls and snap some dreamy pics of the sky being painted with different shades of orange and pink.

If you’re thinking Florence doesn’t have exciting nightlife, let me prove you wrong!! I’d highly recommend heading over to a karaoke bar, get some songs ready and sing your heart out! Trust me, you’ve got a great night ahead of you. 

Must-do: Watching the sunset from Piazzale Michelangelo 🌇

7. Cinque Terre 🐠

Traveller over looking a fishing village in Cinque Terre

You don’t want to miss out on this hidden gem in Northern Italy! Cinque Terre is a beautiful National Park along the Italian Riveria that has five unique seaside villages bursting with colour, waiting for you to explore them! Travel between these vibrant villages via train or hiking trails (bring trainers) with the included day pass. The houses cling to steep terraces in the coves, each place has idyllic swim spots and restaurants offering perfect views.

I would highly recommend trying the fresh seafood and pesto pizza; they’re Cinque Terre’s staples. Then park up on the rocks in a village to swim in these stunning coves. If you’re looking for pristine elegant beaches, make your way to Monterosso and get a beach bed. The aesthetics are awe-inspiring, so take pics to prove to your mates how epic this destination really is!

Must-do: Get a day pass to explore villages ⛱️

8. Lucerne 🏔️

Cable car going up Mount Pilatus in Switzerland

As we leave Italy behind, Switzerland welcomes us! But, have you really gone to Switzerland without going up the Swiss mountains, trying fondue and tasting their finest chocolate? Well, now’s your chance…

Take a quick cable car up to the top of Mount Pilatus and take a deep breath of fresh air. Admire the jaw-dropping views of Switzerland’s landscape, walk up the tallest viewpoint and feel like you’re really on top of the world. Say hi to the adorable ground squirrels called marmots. They live up in the mountains, so keep your eyes peeled!  

Spend the rest of your time exploring the picturesque town of Lucerne. Walk along the heavenly wooden chapel bridge and admire its peaceful atmosphere. Stroll to the Lion Monument, admire the buildings, or even take a boat cruise during the summer months. To see the town light up from the still lake during dusk is simply mesmerising.

Must-do: Cable cars up Mount Pilatus 🚠

9. Paris 🥐

Group of travellers in Paris outside of Moulin Rouge

Last up is the astonishing city of Paris! You simply have to visit this Parisian city when travelling Europe, as the French do say they are the best at everything… fashion, food, monuments and more. And it’s fair to say they might just be right!

Get ready to walk the chic streets of Paris and fall in love… with the city of course! This city transforms during the evenings as the golden lights start to glow and highlight the beauty of Parisian architecture. Plus, you need to see the sparkling Eiffel Tower on the hour from nightfall until 1 am, it’s beyond dreamy.

Visit the museums and learn about the historical side of Paris, or admire the artistry in the Louve like seeing the Mona Lisa! If that isn’t your cup of tea (or should I say a glass of Chablis) then why not enjoy learning about perfume in Paris? You can even create your own scent to remember your epic travel journey.

Must-do: Seeing the Eiffel Tower during the evening ✨

 

And with that, your Best of Europe travel route has come to an end… look back on the memories you’ve made and feel complete knowing you’ve had the time of your life seeing the best of Europe! Different experiences are waiting for you in every city. Discover our other epic Europe trips or why not find out more about the Best of Europe group trip to have the ultimate Euro travel like me? Now’s your chance to go and make lifelong memories like I did! ✈️

And if you still need some persuading, check out what Maddie has to say about being a tour guide on our Best of Europe group trip! 👀⬇️

 

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