0 0 Overseas education costs have climbed steadily over the past few years, and tuition fees alone no longer tell the full story. Indian students planning to study abroad in 2026 need to weigh tuition fees against living expenses, visa […]

Wondering Where To Go On Your First Europe Trip?
Thomas Cook Admin
Table of contents
A trip to Europe is the big daddy of all vacations. It is the most sought-after, fantasised about, and exhilarating of all vacations for any traveller. And it isn’t surprising, because Europe, as a continent, holds so many beautiful countries and these countries have so many beautiful cities. Europe is like a treasure trove and hence a Europe trip is rated so highly on the travel scale. But where should you go on your first Europe holidays? Europe is a mammoth continent, and it is practically impossible to go everywhere on your first Europe trip. So here, let us bring you the best cities to visit on your very first European sojourn!
Step-by-Step Guide for your first Europe trip
1. Paris

Obvious, predictable, but boring? Never! Paris may be the first choice for millions of Euro-travellers, but that is so for a reason. It is because Paris is everything we go to Europe for. It has those quaint little European cafes for you to sip coffee in, it has a collection of the most amazing European architecture for you to feast your eyes on, and it simply has that glittery, romantic and almost movie-like atmosphere that the entire world just adores.
Highlights: Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame
2. Rome

Did you say architecture, Paris? We bring you the Mecca of architectural marvels and monuments – Rome. A visit to Rome should be an absolute must in your first Europe trip. Make sure you choose from Europe packages that include a trip to Rome. The city is so well preserved that you would never know that the building you were watching was two thousand years old. And what collection of monuments! From the gigantic Colosseum to the Trevi Fountain to the Pantheon to St. Peter’s Basilica, it’s all here in Rome. And no, it wasn’t all built in a day.
Highlights: Colosseum, Pantheon, St. Peter’s Basilica, St. Peter’s Square, Trevi Fountain
3. London

London, like New York, is too modernist as a travel destination, they say. But how wrong they are! London should feature on every travel list that has the words ‘Europe trip’ on it. Sure, there aren’t many architectural marvels in London like Rome or Paris, but there is plenty more you can enjoy. Look at the Tower of London up close or go watch a zany musical! Stroll into the British Museum and be enthralled. Munch on world-famous fish and chips and sip on a beer at the local pub.
Highlights: London Tower, Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, British Museum
4. Prague

Next on the bucket list is a city that has so much old world charm and heritage packed in, it would astound you. From the Czech Republic comes the city of Prague, a place built on Renaissance architecture with oodles of Gothic flourishes. Make it a point to reserve a few days in your Europe tour packages for a visit to Prague. Walk along the famous Charles Bridge, visit the baroque style churches, or simply stroll in Old Town Square. You’re bound to enjoy it. So, don’t forget to add this in you first Europe trip.
Highlights: Charles Bridge, Old Town Square, Prague Castle
Also Read: The Best And The Cheapest Places To Travel In Europe
5. Venice

Planning a honeymoon? Make sure you include Venice in your Europe honeymoon packages. We all remember James Bond swooshing down the canals of Venice on a motorboat, his girl on his side. Now wouldn’t you want that? Venice, a city built on islands that have only canals and no roads, is one of the most unique cities in the world. A Europe trip with a Venice pit stop is a perfect honeymoon. But that doesn’t mean the place is only for lovestruck couples. Travellers can find some amazing churches, monuments, and restaurants as they go down the picturesque Grand Canal.
Highlights: Grand Canal, Saint Mark Basilica, Piazza San Marco
6. Amsterdam – Most recommended for a First Europe trip

For travellers on the cusp of adulthood, Amsterdam always has held a very special place. And no Europe trip can be complete without a night of drunken partying in the city of Amsterdam. Famous for its relaxed drinking age limit, Amsterdam has quite a collection of coffee shops and pubs serving hash brownies and liquor. For those looking for a touch of old town culture for their first Europe trip, visit the Van Gogh museum or explore the city’s intricate network of canals.
Highlights: Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, Anne Frank House
7. Santorini

This little Greek island may not feature on many Europe holiday packages but it definitely should. Being an island, you won’t find a single beach that isn’t spectacular. If you can spend a few, make sure to stay in or around the Oia neighbourhood, which features those small, blue domed white buildings on the edge of a cliff. This is the area Santorini is mostly associated with. You can also enjoy an evening on the Red Beach or the Kamari Beach. But that is not all. Santorini also has some famous archaeological sites like Ancient Thera and Ancient Akrotiri.
Highlights: Red Beach, Kamari Beach, Oia neighbourhood
8. Bruges

Bruges, pronounced ‘brooj’, is a quaint little city in Belgium that may not feature on many Euro trip lists you go through. But we simply love it and cannot recommend it highly enough. Sure, if you are a large group of friends looking for the ultimate Europe experience, Bruges might not be your cup of tea. But if you’re a smaller group or better still, a couple, then Bruges might just be the perfect place for some quiet romantic evenings. With its old medieval buildings, cobbled walkways and canals, Bruges has a distinct atmosphere that can envelope you instantly.
Highlights: Halle with the Belfry, Basilica of the holy blood, Market
Must Read: This Girl’s Solo Trip To Europe Will Make You Want To Put Your Travelling Shoes On
These are some of the best places that you can visit on your first Europe trip. Of course, there are plenty more! But you can reserve those for your subsequent trips to Europe, which we can confidently say you will definitely be making. Because Europe is like a giant magnet that pulls the entire world towards itself. So plan your itineraries, book your flights and hotels, get packing and make the most of your first trip to Europe.
Table of contents
Thomas Cook Admin
Thomas Cook brings extensive experience in the travel and tourism industry, helping travellers explore destinations across India and around the world. With deep destination knowledge, strong customer service expertise, and a thorough understanding of travel essentials, including foreign exchange services, the team ensures seamless travel experiences from planning to return. Focused on delivering hassle-free and memorable journeys, Thomas Cook supports travellers with itinerary planning, travel coordination, and expert guidance every step of the way.
Read Full BioRecommended Articles for you
How Much Does It Cost to Study Abroad as an Indian Student
0 0 Studying overseas is an exciting opportunity, but it is also an equally expensive opportunity. Honestly, tuition is only one part of the equation. There is also accommodation, food, transportation, health insurance, visa fees, flights, study materials and even […]
How NRIs Can Send Money Home as a Gift to Their Parents in India
0 0 Most NRIs sending money home aren’t doing it for just one reason. It might be covering a parent’s hospital bill this month, helping fund their retirement next year, fixing up the family home, or simply sending routine support […]
Why Prepaid Forex Cards Are Better Than Credit or Debit Cards for International Leisure Travel
0 0 A crucial decision to make while planning for International Leisure Travel is how to carry the currency you will be using there. Which of these you must carry – Cash, Credit cards, Debit cards, or Foreign Exchange Cards? […]
Best Forex Cards in India (2026): How to Choose the Right One
6 1 There isn’t one card that wins for everyone, and any article claiming otherwise is probably selling something. What makes a card the best forex card for you comes down to the markup, whether it holds the currencies you […]
GBP to INR History: How the Pound Has Changed Against the Rupee Since 1947
0 0 Have you ever noticed that the pound feels more expensive today than it did for your grandparents? While you may consider it to be inflation, it is much more than that. The GBP to INR history has seen […]
Foreign Exchange in India, Now Easier than Ever
0 0 A trip to the foreign shores is indeed an exciting thought. Meticulous planning and itineraries follow. However, one thing that can be mildly discerning is buying and managing foreign exchange that would be needed during the trip. All […]
Rial Is the Currency of Which Country? Countries That Use the Rial
0 0 Understanding “rial” currency can be confusing because when you search for it, some searches will show you Iran, Yemen, and Oman as countries that use it. Some searches may also show Saudi Arabia and Qatar. And this is […]
Money Transfer Scams to Watch Out For When Sending Money Abroad
0 0 With the advancements in technology, there are a lot of benefits, especially the ability to transfer money globally. Those working abroad can send money back home to their family. As for the students abroad, they can get necessary […]
Cherry Blossom Festival in Japan
0 0 All You Need To Know Before Planning a Cherry Blossom Trip to Japan The cherry blossom season Japan is usually from March to early May. Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka are popular destinations if you are visiting for the […]
Sakura Cherry Blossom in Japan
0 0 Sakura Cherry Blossom in Japan: Best Time, Places, Festivals and Travel Tips The sakura season in Japan usually starts in March in many popular destinations and continues into May in northern regions. Sakura is the Japanese word for […]
Why Is the Dollar Rising? Understanding the Factors Behind USD Strength
0 0 Why dollar price is increasing because of changes in interest rates, inflation expectations, economic growth, capital flows, and demand for the US dollar. Overall, this change is closely linked to the difference between US interest rates and those […]
Why Study in Australia? Here’s What Indian Students Should Know
0 0 Australia is a popular destination for students who want to study internationally. The opportunity to study in Australia gives access to internationally recognised qualifications, modern campuses and an environment with many cultures, helping you grow. What to keep […]
Chasing the Lights Across the World’s Best Northern Lights Countries
1 0 There is a particular kind of silence that falls over you the first time the sky turns green above your head. It is not something a screen can prepare you for. That unforgettable moment is what makes Northern […]
Places to Visit in India in December
0 0 December marks the beginning of the peak travel season in India. From the North of the country to the South, every region has pleasant weather and clear skies, perfect for sightseeing. After the hot summer and muggy monsoon, […]
12 Best Places To Visit In November In India In 2026
0 0 November is a month of vibrant transitions in India, offering an array of travel experiences from the cool Himalayan foothills to the warm beaches of the south. If you’re planning your travel itinerary for November 2026, India presents […]
What is the average cost of living in Singapore in 2026?
0 0 The Cost of Living in Singapore At A Glance Average monthly budget: A single person may need S$1505 every month excluding accommodation. The rest of the budget depends on lifestyle and location. Biggest expense: Accommodation is the largest […]
Top Universities in Germany for International Students
0 0 Germany universities for international students have been one of the most preferred destinations for many years. Public universities charge little to no tuition fees, offering excellent opportunities for globally valued research and English-taught programs across engineering, business, and […]
RBI Forex Guidelines for Foreign Exchange Transactions in India
0 0 What Do RBI Forex Guidelines Say? FEMA oversees the legal mechanism governing foreign exchange transactions in India. All Indian residents should deal in forex only through RBI-authorised persons and for permitted purposes. Under the Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS), […]
Cost of Living Index by Country: Compare Living Expenses Around the World (2026 Guide)
0 0 No two countries charge the same price for everyday life. A coffee that costs $2 in Hanoi can cost $7 in Zurich, and a one-bedroom apartment renting for $300 in Cairo might command $3,000 in Manhattan. These gaps […]
Call Us
18002099100

