Perfect Itinerary for a 20-Day Trip to Schengen States/Europe: Discovering Europe's Cultural Gems

Planning a 20-day trip to the Schengen Area is like embarking on an adventure that combines the sights, sounds, and flavors of multiple European cities and cultures. Here’s a suggested itinerary that balances famous cities, cultural experiences, and some well-deserved relaxation. This 20-day plan includes a mix of Western and Central Europe, offering a comprehensive exploration of each region’s unique charm.

20-Day Schengen Itinerary

Days 1-4: Paris, France

Day 1: Arrival in Paris

Explore Montmartre and visit the Sacré-Cur Basilica

Day 2: Discovering Paris

Visti the Louvre Museum and take a stroll along the Seine Evening at the Eiffel Tower

Day 3: Versailles Day Trip

Visit the palace and gardens

Day 4: French Culture

Explore the Latin Quarter and Notre-Dame Enjoy a Seine River cruise

Days 5-7: Amsterdam, Netherlands

Day 5: Arrival and Explore

Travel to Amsterdam – 4 hours by train Visit the Anne Frank House and explore the Jordaan district

Day 6: Art and Culture

Visit the Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum Take a canal tour

Day 7: Zaanse Schans or Keukenhof Seasonal

Day trip to Zaanse Schans or Keukenhof (if seasonally open)

Days 8-10: Berlin, Germany

Day 8: Arrival and Explore

Travel to Berlin – 6 hours by train Visit the Brandenburg Gate and Reichstag Building

Day 9: Berlin's History

Explore the Berlin Wall Memorial, East Side Gallery, and Museum Island

Day 10: Holocaust and Today

Visit the Holocaust Memorial and Checkpoint Charlie Evening in Kreuzberg

Days 11-13: Prague, Czech Republic

Day 11: Arrival and Explore

Travel to Prague – 4.5 hours by train Explore Old Town Square and Charles Bridge

Day 12: Prague Castle

Visit Prague Castle and St. Vitus Cathedral Walk through Mala Strana

Day 13: UNESCO Sites

Day trip to Kutná Hora, sites of the Bone Church or Karltejn Castle

Days 14-16: Vienna, Austria

Day 14: Arrival and Explore

Travel to Vienna – 4 hours by train Visit Sch?nbrunn Palace

Day 15: Cultural Explore

Explore the Belvedere Palace and the Kunsthistorisches Museum Enjoy a concert in the evening

Day 16: Historical Sites

Visit St. Stephen's Cathedral Take a walk in the historic center

Days 17-20: Budapest, Hungary

Day 17: Arrival and Explore

Travel to Budapest – 2.5 hours by train Visit Fisherman's Bastion and Buda Castle

Day 18: Historical Beauty

Explore the Parliament Building Take a Danube River cruise

Day 19: Relaxation and Shopping

Relax at the Széchenyi Thermal Bath Explore the Great Market Hall

Day 20: Last-Minute Shopping or Sightseeing

Last-minute shopping or sightseeing before departure

Tips for Your Trip

Transportation:

Use trains for intercity travel, considering a Eurail pass for convenience.

Accommodation:

Book hotels or hostels in advance, especially in major cities.

Local Cuisine:

Try local dishes in each country, such as croissants in France, stroopwafels in the Netherlands, schnitzel in Austria, and goulash in Hungary.

Cultural Experiences:

Attend local events or festivals if possible. Consider guided tours for in-depth understanding.

Feel free to adjust this itinerary based on your interests, travel pace, and any specific places that particularly catch your eye!