14 day itinerary for Europe

Itinerary

A 14-day backpacking adventure through Europe, focusing on beautiful nature and traveling east from the Netherlands sounds like a fantastic journey! Let’s dive into an itinerary that balances stunning landscapes, charming towns, and a slower pace.

## Day 1: Amsterdam, Netherlands

• Morning: Arrive in Amsterdam. Spend your morning exploring the iconic canals and the vibrant Jordaan district.
• Afternoon: Visit the Vondelpark for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.
• Evening: Enjoy a canal cruise to see the city from the water, followed by dinner at a local eatery.

## Day 2: Amsterdam to Utrecht

• Morning: Take a short train ride (about 30 minutes) to Utrecht.
• Afternoon: Explore the Dom Tower and the picturesque canals. Don’t miss the unique wharf cellars along the water.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at a canal-side restaurant and soak in the local atmosphere.

## Day 3: Utrecht to Arnhem

• Morning: Catch a train to Arnhem (about 45 minutes).
• Afternoon: Visit the Hoge Veluwe National Park. Rent a bike and explore the park’s beautiful landscapes and the Kröller-Müller Museum.
• Evening: Return to Arnhem for dinner and a stroll through the city center.

## Day 4: Arnhem to Berlin, Germany

• Morning: Take a train to Berlin (around 5 hours).
• Afternoon: Check into your accommodation and then head to Tiergarten for a relaxing walk.
• Evening: Explore the vibrant neighborhood of Kreuzberg for dinner and enjoy the local nightlife.

## Day 5: Berlin

• Morning: Visit the East Side Gallery and the Berlin Wall Memorial.
• Afternoon: Explore the historic Brandenburg Gate and the Reichstag building.
• Evening: Enjoy a traditional German meal at a local restaurant.

## Day 6: Berlin to Dresden

• Morning: Take a train to Dresden (about 2 hours).
• Afternoon: Visit the Zwinger Palace and stroll along the Elbe River.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner in the Altstadt (Old Town) and take in the beautiful architecture.

## Day 7: Dresden to Prague, Czech Republic

• Morning: Catch a train to Prague (around 2.5 hours).
• Afternoon: Check into your accommodation and then explore the Old Town Square and the Astronomical Clock.
• Evening: Walk across the Charles Bridge and enjoy dinner in the charming Mala Strana district.

## Day 8: Prague

• Morning: Visit Prague Castle and St. Vitus Cathedral.
• Afternoon: Explore the beautiful gardens around the castle and take in the views of the city.
• Evening: Enjoy a traditional Czech dinner and perhaps catch a performance at the National Theatre.

## Day 9: Prague to Český Krumlov

• Morning: Take a bus or train to Český Krumlov (about 2.5 hours).
• Afternoon: Explore the fairy-tale town, including the castle and its gardens.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner in one of the quaint restaurants along the river.

## Day 10: Český Krumlov to Vienna, Austria

• Morning: Travel to Vienna (around 3 hours by bus or train).
• Afternoon: Visit Schönbrunn Palace and its gardens.
• Evening: Enjoy a classical music concert or opera performance in the city.

## Day 11: Vienna

• Morning: Explore the historic center, including St. Stephen's Cathedral and the Hofburg Palace.
• Afternoon: Take a leisurely walk in the Stadtpark and see the famous Johann Strauss statue.
• Evening: Savor a traditional Viennese dinner at a local heuriger (wine tavern).

## Day 12: Vienna to Bratislava, Slovakia

• Morning: Take a short train or boat ride to Bratislava (about 1 hour).
• Afternoon: Explore the charming Old Town and visit Bratislava Castle for panoramic views.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and try some Slovak specialties.

## Day 13: Bratislava to High Tatras

• Morning: Travel to the High Tatras region (around 4 hours by train).
• Afternoon: Check into your accommodation and start exploring the stunning mountain scenery. Consider a hike to one of the beautiful lakes, like Štrbské Pleso.
• Evening: Relax and enjoy a hearty meal at a mountain lodge.

## Day 14: High Tatras to Kraków, Poland

• Morning: Take a train to Kraków (around 3 hours).
• Afternoon: Explore the historic Old Town, including the Main Market Square and Wawel Castle.
• Evening: Enjoy your last dinner in Europe at a traditional Polish restaurant, perhaps trying pierogi or other local dishes.

Bonus Tips:

• Train Pass: Consider getting a Eurail Pass for flexibility and ease of travel.
• Accommodation: Look for hostels or budget hotels that cater to backpackers.
• Packing: Pack light and bring a good pair of hiking shoes for all the nature walks!

This itinerary offers a mix of urban exploration and stunning natural landscapes, allowing you to travel at a leisurely pace while soaking in the beauty of Eastern Europe. Enjoy your adventure! 🌍✨