Ultimate 2-Week Europe Itinerary: From Amsterdam to Rome by Train

Thinking of traveling through Europe but overwhelmed by where to start? With just 15 days, you can experience some of the continent’s most iconic cities—without feeling rushed or burnt out. The key is slow, intentional travel: think quality over quantity, trains over planes, and long lunches in charming piazzas instead of ticking off cities like a checklist.

In this guide, we’ll map out a stress-free, scenic Amsterdam to Rome itinerary, designed for first-time Europe travelers who want a mix of culture, charm, and adventure—without the exhaustion.

🗓️ Europe Itinerary Overview: 15 Days from Amsterdam to Rome

• Day 1–3: Amsterdam, Netherlands

• Day 4–5: Bruges or Ghent, Belgium

• Day 6–8: Paris, France

• Day 9–10: Lucerne or Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland

• Day 11–13: Florence, Italy

• Day 14–15: Rome, Italy

🇳🇱 Days 1–3: Amsterdam – Bikes, Canals & Culture

Start your journey in the laid-back capital of the Netherlands. With tulip-lined streets, historic canals, and world-class museums, Amsterdam is a dream for first-time visitors.

Must-dos:

• Cruise the canals at sunset

• Visit the Anne Frank House (book early!)

• Explore the Rijksmuseum & Van Gogh Museum

• Day trip to Haarlem or Zaanse Schans for windmills and cheese

🚆 Next Stop: Take a 3-hour train to Belgium

🇧🇪 Days 4–5: Belgium – Choose Bruges or Ghent

You can’t go wrong with either of these charming medieval cities. Bruges is romantic and picturesque; Ghent is a little edgier and less touristy.

Highlights:

• Climb the Belfry for panoramic views

• Indulge in waffles, chocolate, and Trappist beer

• Wander cobblestone streets and canals

🚆 Next Stop: High-speed Thalys train to Paris (2 hours)

🇫🇷 Days 6–8: Paris – The City of Lights

Yes, it’s iconic—and yes, it’s 100% worth it. But don’t try to do it all. Pick a few big sights, and leave space to simply enjoy the Parisian lifestyle.

Top picks:

• Eiffel Tower or Montparnasse Tower at sunset

• Louvre or Musée d’Orsay (not both—choose based on interest)

• Picnic at Luxembourg Gardens

• Evening Seine River cruise

🚆 Next Stop: TGV to Switzerland (4–5 hours)

🇨🇭 Days 9–10: Lucerne or Lauterbrunnen – Swiss Alps Escape

Time to slow it down. After a few bustling cities, the Alps provide a breathtaking reset. Choose Lucerne for lakeside beauty and accessibility, or Lauterbrunnen for fairytale mountain views.

Things to do:

• Ride the cogwheel train to Mt. Pilatus or Jungfraujoch

• Wander alpine villages

• Take in the stillness of the Swiss countryside

🚆 Next Stop: Scenic train to Florence via Milan (6–7 hours)

🇮🇹 Days 11–13: Florence – Renaissance & Romance

Florence is the perfect introduction to Italy—walkable, art-packed, and delicious. It’s the birthplace of the Renaissance, and you’ll feel like you’re walking through history.

Don’t miss:

• Climbing the Duomo

• The Uffizi Gallery (for Michelangelo & Botticelli fans)

• Tuscan day trip (Pisa or Siena)

• Fresh pasta and gelato in the Oltrarno district

🚆 Final Stop: High-speed train to Rome (1.5 hours)

🇮🇹 Days 14–15: Rome – End with a Bang

Finish your trip in the Eternal City. It’s chaotic, layered with history, and totally unforgettable. Focus on the big highlights and save time to wander off the beaten path.

Final highlights:

• Colosseum and Roman Forum

• Vatican Museums + St. Peter’s Basilica

• Toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain

• Aperitivo in Trastevere at sunset

✈️ Fly home from Rome on Day 16

💡 Final Tips for a Perfect Europe Itinerary

• Trains, not planes: Europe’s rail network is fast, scenic, and drops you right into the city center.

• Stay central: Pay a little more for centrally located accommodations—it’s worth it for walking access.

• Don’t overpack the schedule: Pick 2–3 main things per city. The best memories often come from unplanned moments.

• Get inspired: Watch Rick Steves’ Europe episodes to help you visualize and get excited before you go.

🎒 A Final Note: Make It Yours

There’s no perfect itinerary—only the one that fits your pace, interests, and energy. Whether you’re into art, food, hiking, or history, Europe has more than enough to fill 15 days. Don’t rush.