27 Best Day Trips in Europe, One Should Not Miss !

Reading Time: 28 minutes

List of All Europe’s Top Day Trips 

 

With the pandemic situation slowly coming back to normal across Europe, European citizens have already started to make day trips across the smaller towns nearby. 

Although, given the situation, the idea of travel is still very dicey all around the world but with proper measures, flights have resumed domestic operations which means normalcy in internal travel across Europe is likely to be seen by Sept/ Oct.

For those who stay in Europe, and for those who have plans to travel in Europe. The continent offers plenty of amazing day trips option within countries or sometimes within towns, so that one can easily cover the attractions over a day or so.

Europe is dotted with several beautiful places and more so with the amazing connectivity within each country due to its robust transport system and excellent roads, which makes it even more convenient for travelers to undertake as many day trips in Europe.

PIN IT | SAVE IT FOR LATER

 

So, this article will give you enough choices to opt from some of the best day trips options across Europe.

 

1. Day trip from the High Tatras to Stara Lubovna (Slovakia)

By Slavka | On2Continents 

 

Slovakia is a perfect day trip destination in Europe because its territory is compact, and you can easily travel from one end to the other in one day. When you visit the most popular national park called the High Tatras and you’d like to do some cultural travel besides hiking in the mountains, highly recommended is a day trip to Stara Lubovna.

If you go by car, you can reach the small town in about 30 minutes. If you have to rely on public transportation, then the journey to Stara Lubovna takes 60 to 80 minutes. From the High Tatras, take the TEZ train to Poprad where you hop on the Stara Lubovna shuttle train and then walk uphill to Stara Lubovna Castle for about 30 minutes. You can also take a taxi.

Stara Lubovna is a small town and its touristic attraction is all about the majestic medieval castle that dominates the panorama. Stara Lubovna belongs to one of the best and visitor-friendly castles in Slovakia. You have plenty to do there for the whole day. First, visit the castle on a guided tour and then explore the rest on foot on your own time. There is more to see after the tour. You can climb the tall tower for fantastic views and then you can descend to the deepest dungeon.

Directly below the castle, there is an open-air folk museum which is a well-preserved, authentic folk village. It’s very interesting to explore the large collection of wooden houses and their indoor spaces.

2. Day Trip to Giverny from Paris (France)

By Stephen | Monk bought lunch

 

Make like Monet and leave the streets of Paris behind – his gardens in the quaint little village of Giverny in the Ile-de-France countryside are a classic escape from the city and a welcome respite in natural surroundings from the bustle of Paris.

Monet’s garden and house in Giverny are equal parts of rural country retreat and quiet ode to the great artist. Many scenes inside will already feel familiar to fans of the Impressionist’s work, particularly his later period as Monet’s health began to decline and he wandered away less and less from grounds of this very house and the Clos Normand just outback.

The interior of the house, which remains much as it did during the artist’s own life, now also exhibits many of his works. Not exactly in situ to the location represented, but at least on-site and authentically connected to Monet and his legacy.

Though a public bus runs occasionally from the nearest train station in the town of Vernon, opt instead to bike along quiet backroads that connect the town to the countryside estate, passing historic churches and lovely little inns along the way. Before leaving Vernon, you can even stop at the local market to pick up a picnic to eat in the very same fields that Monet himself used to explore concepts of light and color in his early years at Giverny – it’ll probably leave quite an Impression.

3. Day Trip to Corinth from Athens (Greece)

By Nina | Lemons and Luggage

 

Heading to Corinth from Athens, Greece is one of the best day trips in Europe. And it actually includes two places: New Corinth and Ancient Corinth. Because while Ancient Corinth is not located in the modern town of Corinth it can easily be reached by taxi.

To get from Athens to Corinth you only need to take the train for an hour, making this one of the best day trips from Athens. The train from Athens to Kiato will leave you at the Corinth train station from where you can take a taxi into town.

Modern Corinth is well worth a stroll itself and is quite underrated among tourists. But you will probably appreciate the lack of other tourists as you walk through the town center and along the sea. Don’t miss the famous statue of Alexander the Great and philosopher Diogenes.

If you’re into the history of Ancient Greece a 10-minute taxi ride to Ancient Corinth is an absolute must when you’re in Corinth. Here you can see Acrocorinth, the acropolis of Ancient Corinth, commonly known to be one of the most spectacular acropolis sites in the entire country.

Below Acrocorinth, you will find the Archaeological Museum of Ancient Corinth. For €8 you can see both the museum as well as the entire archaeological site which includes the beautiful Temple of Apollo, the Glauke Fountain, the Pirene Fountain, and the Theater of Ancient Corinth.

 

4. Day Trip to Tallinn from Helsinki (North Europe) 

By David | Surveys Fanatic

 

 

If you are looking for the best day trip in North Europe, it’s hard to go past visiting Tallinn, Estonia from Helsinki, Finland.

Despite seeming like these two countries are in different parts of Europe, they are amazingly close and it takes just a two-hour ferry trip to travel between the two. Ferries run regularly and can be quite cheap, especially if you book in advance.

Tallinn is a fantastic destination with one of the best medieval old towns in the world. This is a short taxi ride from the ferry terminal and the first (and possibly only) place you will want to head on your day trip. Once here, explore the colorful Old Town on foot. Start by climbing the Old Town Tower for great views as well as the tower in St Olav’s church.

Learn more about Estonia at the Estonian History Museum and Estonian Maritime Museum and visit some of the well-preserved churches. You also can’t miss a walk around the Old Town walls.

If you can tear yourself away from the Old Town, a short walk away is a different experience. You can take a one hour tour at the Original Sokos Hotel Vira. This building was also an international hotel in Soviet times with KGB officers who would work at the hotel monitoring what was going on. It’s a very different side of Estonia’s history to explore.

 

5. Day Trip from Lisbon to Costa Vicentina (Portugal)

By Alya & Campbell | Stingy Nomads

 

The Costa Vicentina in the south of Portugal is a great place for a day trip from Lisbon. The scenery along the coast is truly breathtaking; pristine beaches, dramatic cliffs, hidden bays, charming fishermen villages and blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean.

The Costa is located 160km south of Lisbon, less than a 2-hour drive. The best way to visit the area is to rent a car and drive along the coast stopping at look-outs, beaches, and small towns along the route. It’s possible to get to the coast by public transport from Lisbon. There are several daily buses from Sete Rios Bus Station.

Porto Covo, a small beach town, is the best place to start the trip. The town is absolutely beautiful; cobbled streets, traditional white fishermen houses, cozy street cafes, stunning coastal views, and a couple of small beaches nearby. One can easily spend here the whole day wandering along the streets, eating fresh seafood at local restaurants, chilling on the beach, swimming, kayaking, and walking along the coast following the Fisherman’s Trail, one of the most beautiful hiking routes in Portugal.

It’s possible to walk from Porto Covo to Vila Nova de Milfontes, the next town, following the trail and take a bus back to Lisbon from there. The walk takes between 5 and 6 hours, it’s best to start from Porto Covo in the morning.

If you travel by car from Porto Covo continue driving along the coast. There are several amazing places not to miss such as Vila Nova de Mirfontes, Cabo Sarao, Almograve Beach, Amoreira Beach, and more. 

Also, read about Top Festivals of Europe 

 

6. Day Trip from London to Winchester (United Kingdom)

By Deeptha | The Globe Trotter

 

The cathedral city of Winchester is located on the edge of the South Downs in the county of Hampshire. With fast trains from London to Winchester taking less than an hour, Winchester makes for a great day trip from London. You can also travel to Winchester by bus with National Express operating around eight services daily from London (with a journey time of around 1 hour 45 mins).

Winchester is one of the UK’s most historic cities and has a horde of attractions. Popular ones are Winchester Cathedral (one of Britain’s greatest cathedrals), the Great Hall (home to the legendary Arthurian Round Table and Prince Charles’s ‘Wedding Gates’), Winchester College (the oldest continuously running school in the UK), Wolvesey Castle and Palace, Hospital of St Cross and the City Museum.

Other places that visitors can visit include Winchester’s military museums, the Guildhall, Winchester City Mill, and St Peter’s Catholic Church.

In addition to the above, Winchester has a thriving shopping scene with an array of popular big-name stores, boutiques and small independent businesses. It is a great place to pick up all kinds of knick-knackery and unique gifts.

When it comes to the dining scene, Winchester has some really great pubs, lively bars, grab-and-go food stalls, and fine dining venues. Whatever your taste, you will find great places to enjoy a meal out.

With so many things to see and do in Winchester, it is no wonder the city makes for a great day trip destination.

 

7. Day Trip from Galway to the Cliffs of Moher (Ireland)

 By Sarah |  The Tales of tiny boots

 

 

The Cliffs of Moher is undoubtedly one of Ireland’s most popular attractions; while Galway is a firm favorite when it comes to the best city in Europe. You can tick both of these must-see places off in one go with a day trip from Galway to the Cliffs of Moher.

Galway is the cultural capital of Ireland. There is so much charm and buckets of atmosphere packed into this small medieval city. There is so much to do, from pubs heaving with craic and Irish music, to enjoying the beautiful streets and fishing village of The Claddagh, taking in views of the Spanish Arch, and the Long Walk. and experience the festival atmosphere of the Latin quarter. 

The drive to the Cliffs of Moher is a treat in itself, passing by miles and miles of open green countryside with the wild Irish coast on your right. On route you can stop in the charming village of Kinvara, a fishing village with Dunguaire Castle, looking straight out of a fairytale. 

Continue on this coastal route and you will arrive at the Burren – one of Ireland’s most unique landscapes.

Before hitting the cliffs, be sure to stop off in Doolin, the small village beloved by tourists. Stop off in the chocolate shop or grab a pint at Gus O’Connors pub. In Doolin, you can actually have the unique experience of walking the Doolin cliffs right the way to the Cliffs of Moher.

The Cliffs of Moher are the top attraction in the area. These sheer cliffs stand at a crazy 200m and run for 8km along the coast. You will have great views of the Atlantic and Ireland’s rugged western coastline. A site you will always remember.

8. Day trip to Sighisoara from Brasov (Romania)

Arnav Mathur from Eat | Travel | Live | Repeat 

 

 

Romania is one of the unexplored gems in Europe (as compared to other popular destinations), that should be there on your travel bucket list for sure. Romania is not only home to Bran Castle aka Dracula’s Castle, but also to one of Europe’s most well preserved medieval cities – Sighisoara. Which incidentally happens to be the birthplace of Vlad Tepes aka Count Dracula, and also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

One thing that stands out about the Old Town in Sighisoara is the pastel-colored houses, which along with the cobbled stone paths, give Sighișoara a distinct identity. A leisure walk along the cobbled stone paths is highly recommended, and if you happen to walk into a local distillery, a free Palinka tasting session might follow.

Sighisoara without a doubt is one of Transylvania’s prettiest towns and makes for a great day trip from Brasov, Romania’s 7th most populous city. Brasov, located 166 km north of Bucharest, Romania’s Capital, acts as a gateway to exploring Transylvania, and is also home to Poiana Brasov – a popular Ski Town, just a couple of hours by road from Bucharest.

The most convenient way of reaching Brasov from Bucharest is by train. And another train from Brașov to Sighișoara. Just for your information, Brasov to Sighisoara is just 90 km, so you can easily do a road trip as well. And if you plan to stay in Sighisoara for the night, there are plenty of Airbnb’s that you can check out too. Just enquire on the spot.

 

9. Day Trip to Dublin to Kilkenny (Ireland)

By Bruna Venturinelli | Maps ‘N Bags

 

After staying in Dublin and enjoying everything this buzzing city has to offer, many travelers venture on a day trip to Kilkenny.

Kilkenny is a charming medieval city located in the center of Ireland. The city is full of lively pubs, impressive castles, and a dynamic art scene.

Because of that, there are lots of exciting things to do in Kilkenny, such as visiting Kilkenny Castle. This castle, built-in 1195, is a symbol of the Viking occupation in Ireland and is an exciting place worth visiting.

Beyond that, Kilkenny has many other medieval sites, such as St. Candice’s Cathedral with its tower, the oldest construction in town, and the Black Abbey with an impressive history.

But after visiting so many sacred places, you will want to dive into the past of Kilkenny in the town’s oldest surviving house – The Hole in the Wall.

While Irish pubs are renowned for their welcoming atmosphere and memorable characters, The Hole in the Wall goes the extra mile. Built-in 1582, this pub pre-dates Trinity College Dublin and is the most famous pub in the whole country. As the name says, it is a tiny bar where locals squeeze in to hear stories, music, or just to have a nice drink.

 

10. Day Trip from Munich to Salzburg (Central Europe)

By Vrushali |   Couple of Journeys

 

 

After you are done exploring the beauty of Bavaria, you should definitely consider taking a day trip from Munich to Salzburg. The best way to travel between Munich and Salzburg is by train. A train journey from Munich to Salzburg usually takes about two hours. 

Plenty of small Bavarian and Austrian towns will greet you on your train journey. Plus, traveling by train saves you toll fees and the trouble of having to park your car far away from the city center in Salzburg. 

If you are planning to cover all of Salzburg within a day and come back to Munich by evening, you should take a train that leaves by 9 in the morning. If you are traveling as a family, a great tip to save money is to buy a Bayern Ticket or a Bavaria ticket which is valid even on trains going to Salzburg. 

Some places that you must visit on your day trip to Salzburg are the Hohensalzburg Fortress, the Mirabell Palace and Gardens, the Hellbrunn Palace and Zoo, and of course the birthplace and residence of Mozart. 

If you are a Sound of Music fan, you should definitely book yourself a guided Sound of Music tour that will take you to all the filming locations of the classic movie. A typical tour usually takes about 4 hours.

You should also leave yourself enough time to shop in the Old Town, eat the famous ‘Mozart balls’ and probably even enjoy a short cruise in the Salzach River. After you are done exploring the wonderful Austrian city, take an evening train and head back to Munich. 

 

11. Day Trip from Interlaken to Jungfraujoch  (Switzerland)

By Carolyn | Holidays to Switzerland

 

One of the best day trips in Europe is the excursion from the Swiss town of Interlaken to Jungfraujoch mountain, where you’ll find Europe’s highest railway station.

The trip involves a series of connecting train rides from Interlaken via either Lauterbrunnen or Grindelwald to Kleine Scheidegg, a journey which takes around 90 minutes. 

At Kleine Scheidegg passengers transfer to the Jungfraubahn for the final ascent, part of which goes through a seven kilometer-long tunnel through the mountain, to Jungfraujoch, at 3,454 meters above sea level.

Once at the summit, there is plenty to do.  As well as shops and restaurants, visitors can admire ice sculptures in the Ice Palace, learn more about the history of the Jungfrau railway in the Alpine Sensation tunnel exhibition and enjoy spectacular views from the terrace of the Sphinx Observatory.

With a panorama of snow-capped mountain peaks and the Aletsch Glacier, the vista is one that will take your breath away.

During the summer months, a number of outdoor activities are offered in the Snow Park.  They include sledging, snow tubing, skiing, and ziplining and are a fun way to spend an hour or two. 

As the trip to Jungfraujoch takes two hours each way from Interlaken, it’s best to allow a full day for your excursion.  You’ll want to spend at least three hours at the summit in order to visit all the exhibitions, browse the shops, enjoy a bite to eat and partake in some of the snow activities before your scenic journey back to Interlaken.

 

12. Day Trip from Catania to Taormina (Sicily)

By Veronika | Travel Geekery

 

One of the prettiest day trip options in Europe takes us to Taormina, an enchanting town in the Northeast of Sicily. You can visit it easily from Catania, the capital of Sicily, since it’s located just an hour drive away. There are buses and trains going between Catania and Taormina too, each taking about an hour.

Taormina is a wonderful blend of historical sights, great food, and beautiful beaches. When visiting Taormina, one shouldn’t leave out the Ancient Greek Theatre. The amphitheater is well preserved and offers absolutely stunning views over the coast.

Strolling along the Corso Umberto all the way from Porta Messina to Porta Catania will have you come across the most notable churches and buildings, such as the Santa Caterina Church, a medieval palace called Palazzo Corvaja and churches Chiesa di Sant’Agostino and Chiesa di San Giuseppe at the Piazza IX Aprile square.

A quick cable car ride then takes you from the town level to the beaches. You can skip the closest but too small Mazzaro Beach and head to the prettier and more spacious Isola Bella Beach with a little islet of the same name, which you can walk to.

When coming to this part of Sicily, skipping Taormina would be a huge mistake. Base yourself in Catania and make a day trip to the charming town!

13. Day Trip from Munich to Garmisch-Parenkirchen (Germany)

By Darek | Darek and Gosia Travel Blog

 

 

Europe is known for its beauty and number of day trips option. From famous cities to stunning beaches. But there are also some hidden gems, located a bit further away from the well-known locations. If you are planning to visit Germany, Garmisch-Partenkirchen will be definitely one of them!

Rent a car at Munich airport and head out on the road! It will take you around 90 minutes to get to a different world – a fairy-tale-like town in the southern region of Germany – Bavaria.

There is so much to see in this stunning area that one day might not be enough. Having said that you can still visit a few amazing places on your day from Munich.

Start with the obvious one – the Garmisch-Partenkirchen town. This twin-town is a very famous ski resort in Germany due to the fact that in 1936 Olympic Winter Games were held there. It is also one of the prettiest places in the country. After walking around, visit Partnachklamm – a stunning gorge with a mountain stream.

Your next stop is located 15 minutes away. Drive to Parkplatz am Eibsee and take a cable car to the top of Zugspitze – the highest mountain in Germany. The views from the top are spectacular – especially the beautiful Eibsee lake looks fantastic from there. To finish off your day, go for a walk around the lake before driving back to Munich!

 

 

14. Day Trip to Mooska Smoke Sauna from Tallin (Estonia)

By Oksana & Max | Drink Tea & Travel 

 

Located 3 hours from Tallinn or 2 hours from Riga, Mooska Smoke Sauna may be one of longer European day trips but it is worthwhile nonetheless. Our Mooska Smoke Sauna experience was one of the most memorable experiences we had in Tallinn and it was definitely the most unique spa experience we have had to date. 

Mooska Smoke Sauna is a traditional Estonian smoke sauna experience that has been dubbed a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity activity. The sauna is located on a traditional farm amidst nature and is meant to cleanse the body and the mind.

At Mooska Farm you will be welcomed with open arms and guided through the elaborate 3-hour woodfired smoke sauna experience by the charming host, Eda. The experience takes you in and out of the hot sauna and is punctuated by chanting, meditation, whisking with leaves and twigs, honey scrubs, and even an optional ice-cold skinny dip! Unique to say the least!

The sauna is a sacred place for the local people and experiencing it first hand gave us a unique insight into local traditions. Afterward, we had an amazing homemade lunch at the farm which included lots of local products and goods like their famous smoked meats which are cured inside the sauna. If you have an opportunity to take a day trip from Tallinn or Riga, don’t hesitate to go to the Mooska Smoke Sauna.

15. Day Trip from Rome to Pompeii (Italy)

By Katy | Untold Travel

 

 

Visit the ancient city of Pompeii destroyed by the explosion of Mount Vesuvius in 79AD on one of the best day trips from Rome. The famous ruins of the city were preserved by ash and lava that erupted from the volcano and it’s here you can see how people lived in southern Italy almost 2,000 years ago.

At the site, you can visit the luxurious houses of the wealthy, bakeries, a vineyard, and Pompeii’s amphitheater where gladiators fought for glory just as they did at the Colosseum in Rome.

There are a few ways to visit Pompeii from Rome. You can take the fast train to Naples and transfer to the local Circumvesuviana train and get off at Pompeii Scavi – Villa Dei Misteri. The journey takes around 2 hours including transfer time in Naples and costs around €28 for the one way fare if you book in advance.

Alternatively, you can join a guided tour that will take you by bus to Pompeii where an archaeologist will show you the sights and tell you stories of this incredible preserved city. Some small group tours combine your Pompeii visit with some time in Sorrento, Naples, or even the Amalfi Coast for an action-packed day trip from Rome.

 

 

16. Day Trip from Paris to Strasbourg (France)

By Erin Parker | Love to Travel, Stay Eat Do

 

 

Strasbourg is a delightful European city, that I would highly recommend it to anyone who is visiting France. There are so many great things to do in Strasbourg and it really is an easy day trip from Paris by train, if you don’t have enough time to stay.

The picturesque train trip takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes from the French capital. Once you arrive, you should head directly to the pedestrianized area. Strasbourg has a great café and bar scene, the difficult decision will be, where to stop for lunch.

Take your time wandering through La Petite France, keep an eye out for Grande Ile and the half-timbered houses; it is truly fairytale-like. Visit the Notre Dame Cathedrale, the Astronomical Clock and of course Place de la Republique, being the main square in Strasbourg.

There are many tour options in Strasbourg, by foot, bike, boat on the canals or by car or bus out to explore the Alsace Region and the wineries. There are some beautiful nearby to visit and explore, you could even hire a car for half a day and self-tour the area.

If you are visiting in December, be sure to put Strasbourg on your list, as they host remarkable Christmas markets.

 

 

17. Day Trip to Ring of Kerry ( Ireland )

By Cath | Travel Around Ireland 

 

 

One of the best day trips to take in Europe is one which takes you around the Ring of Kerry in southern Ireland. This 179-km circular route in County Kerry is a beautifully scenic route which usually starts from the town of Killarney. It is a very popular tourist route which can be enjoyed by bus tour, car or even bicycle (although this option will not leave you much time for stopping and visiting certain sites along the way).

The Killarney National Park sits within the boundaries of this route and part of the external route that runs along the coastline also forms part of the Wild Atlantic Way, another popular tourist route in Ireland.

Starting from Killarney, travel to Kenmare and then on top Sneem, taking time to visit the Torc Waterfall and Muckross House along the way. Driving from Kenmare around to Killorglin will allow you to follow the Wild Atlantic Way part of the Ring of Kerry. The rugged coastline is amazing and there are several quaint villages along the route to stop in for refreshments or lunch.

Before heading back to Killarney, you should visit the Gap of Dunloe, a valley that runs from Kate Kearney’s Cottage towards the village of Dunloe. It runs between the MacGillycuddy Reeks and the Purple Mountain range and follows four lakes.

You can hike or cycle the route, take a boat from Kate’s Cottage or take a horse and cart. The road is a public road, despite what the jaunting car owners would have you think but is narrow so passing opportunities are limited.

 

 

18. Day Trip from Belfast to Bangor (Ireland)

By Allan Wilson | Bangorni Travel Blog

 

Northern Ireland is a small and close-knit destination with well-connected routes from the capital city of Belfast. And all ends of the country can be found on leisurely day-trips by both rail and road. But one of the best day-trip destinations has to be Bangor (County Down) a seaside resort overlooked by the big tour buses because it is just so easy to reach by a short 35-minute train ride. 

So Bangor is like the seaside alternative to staying in Belfast and it is most famous for its fancy marina and a seafront that marks the start of the North Down Coastal Path which is a famous coastline with beaches and walks in both directions.

Otherwise, tourism focuses a lot on its historical influences and Christian with an ancient abbey in the center of town as well as the North Down Museum found around the courtyard of Bangor Castle which looks over the town and coastline from above. 

The museum and other main tourist sites like the Victorian Walled Garden are also free of charge and the town offers a cheap and easy destination to cover on a day-trip on little more than a return train ticket from Belfast.

 

19. Day Trip from Prague to Terezin (Czech Republic)

By Jeremy  | Cultura Obscura

 

This is one of the not so easy day trips in Europe, but it is one worth taking. Terezin is an important historical site and a must for anyone wishing to learn more about what happened to the Czech Republic during WWII.

Formerly a fortress known as Theresienstadt, the town of Terezín was converted into a concentration camp/ghetto hybrid by the Nazis during World War II. Unlike other Nazi concentration camps, Terezín was a propaganda camp, with its purpose being to show a distorted view of what life was like as a prisoner under the Nazi regime.

Life was considered “better” here than most concentration camps because the inmates were allowed to play games and put on theatre productions, and the children were even allowed, art classes. But in reality, life in Terezin was horrific. Over 33,000 people died in the camp as a result of malnutrition and disease.

Today almost the entire town has been converted into a memorial museum for the victims of the Terezin Ghetto and Concentration Camp.

You can visit several museums within Terezin, the most prominent of which is the Ghetto Museum, dedicated to life in the ghetto. In addition to telling the story of the town, the museum also showcases artwork done by the children.

Terezín is just 39 miles from Prague and can be reached by private car or by bus leaving the city from Praha-Holesovice in the direction of Litoměřice. These buses run regularly throughout the day and take you directly into Terezín itself.

20. Day Trip from Kotor Bay to Dubrovnik (Croatia)

By Clotilde | A princess travelling with Twins

 

Montenegro is one of the beautiful countries in Europe with lovely people, good food, and stunning scenery especially on The Bay of Kotor and in the Durmitor National Park. If you can hire a car and spend time exploring these 2 gorgeous areas with its parks, lakes, and beaches, but you would be crazy not to pop across the border into Croatia and visit the city of Dubrovnik. 

Start early in the morning from Kotor and about 3 hours scenic driving will take you across the border arriving in Dubrovnik to enjoy the day. 

Dubrovnik is a delightful coastal City perched on the edge of the Adriatic, but one of the special attractions of Dubrovnik are the city walls which encircle the old city and you can walk on them!! It’s not so cheap, and can get pretty hot up there so make it your first stop and bring some water! 

After exploring the walls, enter into the city and allow yourself to get lost in the picturesque myriad of cobbled streets and squares but don’t forget to find a cafe to stop for a snack and a coffee, you will feel like you are in Rome! 

Dubrovnik has been used extensively as a filming location for the hugely popular Game of Thrones series and now draws many fans of the series who want to walk in the footsteps of their heroes and so can you! Find your own way or take a guided tour but don’t miss it! 

Before you leave take the cable car up to the top of Mount Srd to enjoy a scenic panorama over Dubrovnik. If you are happy to drive back to Montenegro in the dark then visit Mount Srd for Sunset, you won’t regret it!

 

21. Day Trip from Copenhagen to Helsingør (Denmark)

By Derek and Mike | Everything Copenhagen

 

One of Europe’s best day trips is traveling from Copenhagen, Denmark up the coastline to Helsingør, also known as Elsinore. Most people haven’t heard of Helsingør, but still they know the destination very well. That’s because it’s the setting of Shakespeare’s tragedy, Hamlet.

The main attraction in Helsingør is Kronborg Castle from Hamlet. It’s a fascinating Danish Renaissance castle that helped Denmark control the flow of goods in and out of the Baltic Sea during the Danish Golden Age.

The castle was also the home of Danish kings who often hosted acting troupes from London, and perhaps even Shakespeare himself. Whatever inspired Shakespeare to write about Kronborg Castle, his impact lives on there. Each summer day you can find Shakespearean actors performing scenes from Hamlet on the grounds.

Besides the castle, a Copenhagen day trip to Helsingør offers plenty more to do and see. There is a city museum, aquarium and a street food market on weekends. One of the best stops to make in Helsingør is the Danish Maritime Museum.

Denmark has a long tradition of surviving off the seas. Copenhagen sprung from a small fishing village to a world capital and Danish shipping has led the world since the Viking age.

Besides castles and museums, Helsingør is quintessential Scandinavian, with picturesque squares, cobblestone streets and pastel half-timber houses.

 

22. Day Trip from Madrid to Toledo (Spain)

By Jennifer Aspinwall | World on a Whim

 

 

The city of Toledo is a popular day trip from Madrid in West Europe as it is only 70 km outside of Spain’s capital city, and extremely accessible by bus or train. The high-speed train leaves from Madrid’s main train station, Atocha, and only takes 30 minutes. The bus journey takes about an hour to an hour and a half each way and costs around 5 -7 euros per trip. Ultimately, both transport options are very inexpensive for a day trip. 

Toledo, Spain is sure to be a highlight on your Spain itinerary. This walled city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site seated atop a gorge that overlooks the Tajo river. Muslims, Christians, and Jews all coexisted peacefully in Toledo during the Middle Ages which is why it is known as the “city of three cultures.” 

Today, those religious influences are still a significant part of the general landscape. Some of the main attractions to include on your day trip in Toledo are the La Catedral Primada, Mirador del Valle, and El Greco museum and monastery. 

You should plan on walking through the historic center and getting lost among the city streets during your day in Toledo. And, if you’re feeling extra adventurous, you should indulge in Toledo’s traditional dish for lunch, partridge stew, or their signature pork dish called Carcamusa. You can also get some shopping in at one or more of the many medieval shops aligning the streets. Swords and marzipan are popular souvenirs in Toledo.

 

23. Day Trip from London to Oxford (United Kingdom)

By Liliane Fawzy | My Toronto My World 

 

 

Oxford is most known for the world-renowned university but the town has so much to offer and an Oxford day trip from London is incredibly easy to do. You’ll find Oxford located about 1 hour from London. It’s accessible by either bus or train. While the train option is slightly faster and slightly more expensive, the X90 Tube makes it so easy to get to Oxford and with multiple pick-up locations in London it’s a no-brainer to use. 

A must-do in the town of Oxford is of course to visit Oxford University. Make sure to spend some time exploring colleges like Christ Church College and New College (both featured in the Harry Potter films!) and taking in architectural greats like the Radcliffe Camera and the Bridge of Sighs. If you’re interested in a vantage point of the town you can climb to the top of the University Church of St Mary the Virgin or the top of Carfax Tower.

In addition to exploring the university, other must-dos in Oxford include the Oxford Covered Market (where you can get some great local goods), the Pitt Rivers Museum, the Oxford Botanic Garden and so much more. If you’ve got a lot of time you can also visit the graves of both the great C. S. Lewis and the great J. R. R. Tolkien. Therefore, Oxford from London is no doubt one of the short and best day trips in Europe.

 

24. Day trip from Vienna to Budapest (Central Europe) 

By Krisztina Harsanyi | She Wanders Abroad

 

 

Visiting Vienna (Austria) to Budapest (Hungary) can be easily done as a part of a day trip in Central Europe. Although it would be better to spend at least a weekend in Budapest, since Vienna in Austria is quite close to the Hungarian capital,  you can easily visit this amazing city in a day trip as well. If you have a car, it’s an easy 2.5-3-hour drive via the highways and you can leave as early as you want and come back as late as you please.

Trains run frequently between the two cities so you can also choose this option. The average travel time is 2 hours 45 minutes, the first one usually leaves around 6 am and the last one comes back around 7 pm which will give you almost a full day to explore Budapest.

If you plan to arrive by train, it will drop you off at ‘Keleti Pályaudvar’. From there you can take the metro line M2 in the direction of ‘Déli Pályaudvar’ and take off at ‘Batthányi tér’ metro stop. Right after you come up from the underground station, you will be facing directly one of the most breathtaking buildings in Budapest across the Danube river, the Hungarian Parliament.

From there it’s an easy 10-minute walk to reach the famous Fisherman’s Bastion, which will grant you the best views in Budapest. Since the Buda Castle is really close, it’s worth taking a walk around the building and soak in the panoramic views from there as well.

After you’re finished with your sightseeing on the Buda side, cross the Széchenyi Chain Bridge to reach the Pest side of the city. This is the classic city center of Budapest and you can visit many amazing landmarks there like the St. Stephen’s Basilica, the Budapest Eye, or the Dohány Street Synagogue.

Simply spend your afternoon wandering around the streets, discovering all the beauty Budapest has to offer, and end the day with a beer or a cocktail in one of the ruin pubs before heading back to Vienna.

 

25. Day trip to Golden Circle from Reykjavik (Iceland)

By Nicole | Nicole LaBarge Travel Blog

 

 

Iceland is one of those places you need to drive around and see the beautiful landscapes and scenery.  One of the best day trips from Reyjkavik is going on the Golden Circle.  Not to be confused with the Ring Road which goes all the way around the island, the Golden Circle would only take a few hours to drive around but believe me you will want to take a lot longer and make a lot of stops along the way.

You can explore the Golden Circle of Iceland at any time of year.  This popular driving route will take you through the southern portion of the island, where you will experience such iconic natural wonders as Gullfoss Waterfall, Geysir Geothermal Field, and Thingvellir National Park.  

This is an iconic route around Iceland and the most popular day trip.  You will see beautiful waterfalls, stunning coastlines, and even Icelandic horses along the way.  Technically the Blue Lagoon is not part of the Golden Circle but there is no reason why you can’t add it to the end of this perfect day in Iceland.

 

26. Day Trip to Kinderdijk from Amsterdam (Netherlands)

By Constance | The Adventures of Panda Bear

 

 

As one of the most beautiful places in the Netherlands and Kinderdijk is the perfect day trip destination from Amsterdam. Located approximately 2 hours away from Amsterdam, it can be a bit far, but it is totally worthy of a Day Trip in Amsterdam, Europe.

Explore the Nederwaard Windmill Museum where you can see how millers lived during the Dutch Golden Age. The museum’s windmill is still operational and you can see how the windmill pumps water from the earth. 

Check out the Blokweer Polder Windmill Museum for some insight into one of the oldest windmills in Kinderdijk. This windmill moves water into the river and is home to a lush vegetable garden and cute farm animals. 

Don’t forget to take the boat tour! The cruiser tour takes approximately 30 minutes and will take you on a ride around the river, it’s a great way to explore the area. Alternatively, take the hop-on-hop-off boat which stops at 4 places along the river at various museums and viewpoints in Kinderdijk.

Of course, being in the Netherlands, you can also rent bikes and bike around in Kinderdijk. Get the full Dutch experience while in the Netherlands and be sure to visit Kinderdijk on your next trip to Amsterdam. 

 

27. Day Trip from Ljubljana to Bled (Slovenia)

By Anjali | TravelMelodies

 

Think Slovenia and the image of turquoise lake with a tiny island sitting right in the heart of lake emerges in front of you – Well, Bled represents Slovenia. An icon in the true sense, Bled has to be a part of your Slovenia itinerary.

Owing to its proximity (just about 56 km or 34 miles) to Ljubljana, Bled makes for a great day trip from Slovenia’s capital in Central Europe. But that is, of course, not a reason that Bled attracts thousands of tourists every year. The reason is its other-worldly natural beauty.

A clear blue alpine lake at the foot of Julian Alps, a beautiful island right in the center of the lake, a castle perched on a cliff above the lake – Bled is like your fairytale story in motion.

There are tons of awesome things to do in Bled, but I still urge you to relax and admire the crystal clear waters while sitting at one of the benches around the lake or take a stroll around the lake (2 km stretch) or swim in its cold waters and then lie on a mat with your favorite book and a cup of coffee maybe.

You can ride a traditional Pletna boat to Bled island and ring a wishing bell at Our Lady of the Lake church because why not…wishes do come true!

Are you a sucker for exquisite sunsets and sunrises? Then, hike to Mala Osojnica to witness the iconic sunset or sunrise over Lake Bled.

It’s easy to reach Bled from Ljubljana with a host of bus and train options available. A self-drive takes approx. 4o minutes while a bus ride can take a little over an hour. You can also take a guided day tour to save time and hassle. The cost varies a bit depending upon the mode of transport you choose – a bus ticket costs nearly €12 and, a train ticket is for €10 for a roundtrip.

If you go by the guidebook, summer is the best time to visit Bled but, I’d argue as it’s the time of the year when the Alpine town is thronged with tourists, so it’s wise to plan during spring or fall.

Pin this complete list of Best Day trips across Europe for your Later Read

So, Next time if you are planning to visit any part of Europe, this comprehensive list of best day trips in Europe will surely give you enough options to choose from. And for your ultimate planning for Europe, you can refer to this blog on Budget Travel Guide to Europe. 

I would love to connect with you all through my social media pages Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Twitter

 

Further, you can read :

10 Day Travel Itinerary of Myanmar – Backpacker’s Guide

How to manage a full-time Job with Travel and Blogging

Top 16 things to do in and around Bangkok – Comprehensive Activity Guide