As of July 1, 2020 the European Union has opened their borders to tourists from 15 different countries.
The reopening plan was based on health criteria, and ultimately officials decided to leave the U.S. off the list. The list of countries allowed to enter Europe will be reviewed every two weeks to keep up with the changing reality of coronavirus outbreaks.
Here is the full list of countries that the European Union has opened up to:
- Algeria
- Australia
- Canada
- China
- Georgia
- Japan
- Montenegro
- Morocco
- New Zealand
- Rwanda
- Serbia
- South Korea
- Thailand
- Tunisia
- Uruguay
Europe Highlights, 7-10 Days
Seven to ten days in Europe is a good amount of time to focus in a specific region. Generally Europe is separated into three broad regions, the definitions of which are a remnant of the Iron Curtain days during the Cold War: Western Europe, Central Europe, and Eastern Europe.
Western Europe Highlights in 7-10 Days
Western Europe is broadly understood to stretch from Portugal to Germany’s eastern borders, as well as including the Mediterranean countries of Italy and Greece to the south. In one week you won’t be able to hit every country, but it is feasible to hit 2 or 3 - though you will still be rushing. However if a week is all you have you’ll be able to see the key sights and enjoy the Western European culture. Traveling by train is advised!
Day 1, Paris: Begin in the city of lights. Check out the Louvre to see the Mona Lisa, picnic in front of the Eiffel Tower, and stroll the Champs Élysées toward the Arc de Triomphe.
Day 2-3, Barcelona: Head to vibrant Barcelona and enjoy some of the best cuisine in the world. Marvel at the cities incredibly unique and varied architecture, such as the Sagrada Família church designed by Gaudi. Visit modern art museums with works by Picasso, then take it further back and soak up the medieval history of Barcelona in the Gothic Quarter.
Day 4-5, Rome: From off beat Barcelona, head to classic Rome, once the headquarters of one of the most powerful empires the world has ever seen. Visit the Colosseum, imposing still even though it is not fully intact. Spend an afternoon enjoying a perfectly created Italian pizza and the Italian coffee culture, and walk among ghosts at the Forum. The history here is astounding!
Day 6-7, Zurich: Spring from the conquering history of Italy to the neural zone with a couple days in Zurich, Switzerland’s largest city. Zurich oozes with European charm - cobblestoned streets, cafes, castles, and of course the quintessential views of mountains, easily accessible for a short hike in the fresh air. Reinvigorate yourself from your whirlwind week in Europe.
Day 8-10, Brussels and back to Paris: Head to Brussels in Belgium for more Western European charm. Explore Grand Place market square, palaces, and incredible art museums. Don’t forget to try a Belgian Waffle! Make your way back to Paris through the idyllic Northern France countryside to Paris before heading home.
Central Europe Highlights in 7-10 Days
Central Europe is a much different experience than Western Europe, historically as well as culturally. The countries are smaller and closer together, so you may be able to see more iconic sites in 7-10 days, especially the cities, which are for the most part easily navigable in a day. You won’t be able to get out to the countryside as much, but will see the key tourist sites.
Day 1-3, Budapest: Begin in Budapest, sometimes called the “Paris of the East” for a wonderful introduction to Central Europe. Take in the spectacular views of the Hungarian Parliament after a short (easy) hike up Gellert Hill on the Buda side, walk across the famous bridges, and wander the cities unique neighborhoods. Enjoy dinner at a restaurant right on the Danube. Don’t miss Market Hall for souvenirs!
Day 3-4, Vienna: From Budapest head to Vienna, Austria. This was the home of classical music legends such as Mozart and Beethoven. Take in a concert, tour the opera house, and visit the many art museums showcasing classic works. Horse enthusiasts will also love watching the famous Lipizzaner horses practice their balletic moves.
Day 5-6, Prague: Head to wonderful Prague, which has become an increasingly popular destination in Central Europe. Prague castle is not to be missed, and definitely take a walk across Charles Bridge lined with large intricate statues all along the way. Prague was a significant city of resistance during the Cold War, and the legacy of subversive literature and art here is fascinating. Take a history tour through the cobblestoned streets of Prague to learn more.
Day 7-9, Krakow: Following Prague, Krakow is another historically significant city, especially from World War II. Those who wish to can visit the site of the Auschwitz concentration camp for a history tour which will touch on the atrocities committed as well as inspiring stories of resilience and hope. Krakow is a wonderful city for modern art and pop culture as well as history. Check out the local bar scene for interesting drinks and to meet locals!
Day 10, Budapest: Return to Budapest before bidding farewell to fascinating Central Europe. Take a day trip to Statue Park, where statues from the Communist era have been preserved after they were torn down and removed from the city. It’s a great way to wrap up your journey through Central Europe which was enormously affected by the Iron Curtain years, and today thrives in pride.
Coming Soon!
Eastern Europe in 7-10 Days Itinerary
Europe in Two Weeks Itinerary