2-Week Itinerary Ideas for a First Trip to Europe: Which Route Wins for a Dreamy Anniversary?

We’ve never been to Europe before. My wife and I just know we want something unforgettable for our anniversary next year. Something classic, romantic, delicious. We’re starting with zero plans — just a desire for amazing food and wine, rich culture and history, natural beauty, and warm, welcoming locals. So far, I’ve narrowed our dream trip down to two routes:

Route 1: London ➝ Paris ➝ Switzerland ➝ Venice

Route 2: London ➝ Paris ➝ ➝ Barcelona

Both sound magical, right? But each offers a very different flavor of Europe. Here’s what we’ve learned while mapping out our first trip to Europe — and which one we’re leaning toward (and why).

Route 1: The Classic Romantic Adventure Through the Alps and Italy

Highlights:

• Afternoon tea in London

• Crepes and culture in Paris

• Scenic train rides through the Swiss Alps

• Wine by Lake Como

• Gondola rides in Venice

Why This One Speaks to Us: This route is basically Europe’s Greatest Hits. You kick off in London with a few whirlwind days exploring Big Ben, strolling through Hyde Park, and catching a West End show. Then it’s off to Paris — city of lights, love, and croissants.

From there, things get breathtaking. Swiss train rides like the Bernina Express take you through landscapes so stunning they look fake: snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes, cozy alpine villages. You can stay on Lake Como — yep, the one George Clooney hangs out at — or hop off for lunch at a scenic spot mid-journey. It’s peaceful, classy, and oh-so-European.

Then it’s Italy time. Venice is like stepping into a painting. And while yes, it can feel touristy, it’s still one of the most surreal places on earth. Tip: stay slightly off the main paths and find those hidden trattorias where locals go.

This route is ideal if you value:

• Natural scenery (Swiss Alps, Lake Como)

• Romance (Venice sunsets, scenic train rides)

• Bucket-list vibes (London, Paris, Venice!)

Route 2: Wine Regions, Sunny Vibes & Tapas by the Sea

Highlights:

• Iconic London & Paris

• Wine tasting in Bordeaux

• Beaches, Gaudí architecture, and tapas in Barcelona

Why This Could Be the Winner: This route is a touch warmer, a little more relaxed, and very food-forward. It starts similarly — London and Paris — but then detours into Bordeaux, one of the most famous wine regions in the world. If wine is your love language, you’ll swoon here.

Then you hop down to Barcelona, a city that practically hums with energy and sunshine. Think sangria, seaside strolls, colorful markets, and surreal buildings designed by Gaudí. It’s artsy, vibrant, and full of life.

This route is ideal if you value:

• Food and wine (hello, Bordeaux!)

• Warmer weather

• Mediterranean beach vibes

So, Which Route Would We Choose?

We’re leaning toward Route 1 — and here’s why.

As a couple, we really want those postcard-perfect, soul-stirring experiences. The kind that make your jaw drop — like crossing a mountain pass on a train, sipping espresso on a balcony overlooking Lake Como, or hearing church bells echo through Venice.

Spain is high on our future list, but for our first European adventure, Route 1 gives us that perfect blend: history, romance, and once-in-a-lifetime scenery.

Pro Travel Tips We’ve Picked Up While Dreaming:

• Book your Eurostar early (London to Paris): fast, scenic, and efficient.

• Travel light: cobblestone streets and multi-stop trips = not ideal for huge suitcases.

• Splurge on a scenic train ride in Switzerland — you’ll remember it forever.

• Eat local: Tourist spots may be convenient, but local favorites always serve the soul (and the stomach) better.

• Mix it up: Combine bustling cities with slower-paced stops like Lake Como or Bordeaux to avoid burnout.

Final Thought:

If you’re planning your first trip to Europe, don’t worry if you don’t know where to start. That’s part of the fun. Start with what you love as a couple — for us, it’s great food, beautiful views, and romantic energy — and build from there.

Europe has something for everyone. Whether you choose Paris to Venice or Paris to Barcelona, you’ll come home changed — and closer than ever.

Would you choose Route 1 or Route 2? Or do you have another dream Europe itinerary? Drop your ideas in the comments — we’d love to hear them!