Exploring Europe: Perfect Country Combinations for Your Next Adventure

Europe offers a tapestry of cultures, landscapes, and histories packed into a relatively small area. The extensive rail network across the EU also makes it perfect for visiting multiple countries in one trip. Here are some great combinations of European countries to visit together, each offering a unique blend of experiences:

1. France and Italy

Highlights:

• France: Start in Paris, the City of Lights, with its iconic Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and charming neighborhoods. Move south to Provence for lavender fields, and end on the French Riviera in Nice.
• Italy: Cross into Italy to visit the romantic city of Venice, historic Rome with the Colosseum and Vatican, and the stunning coastlines of the Amalfi Coast.

Why Together? Both countries offer rich histories, world-famous cuisines, and stunning art and architecture. Traveling by train between these destinations is both scenic and efficient.

2. Spain and Portugal

Highlights:

• Spain: Begin in vibrant Barcelona with Gaudí’s masterpieces, then head to Madrid for world-class museums and parks, and Seville for flamenco and historic sites.
• Portugal: Cross into Portugal to explore Lisbon’s hilly, coastal charm, the scenic Douro Valley, and the historic city of Porto.

Why Together? These Iberian neighbors share a love for life’s pleasures, from great food and wine to lively festivals and stunning coastlines. The proximity makes traveling between them easy and rewarding.

3. Germany and Austria

Highlights:

• Germany: Start in Berlin for its history and modern art scene, then move to Munich for beer gardens and castles, and the Black Forest for natural beauty.
• Austria: Cross into Austria to visit Vienna’s imperial palaces, Salzburg’s musical heritage, and the picturesque landscapes of Hallstatt.

Why Together? Both countries offer a blend of modern cities, historical sites, and breathtaking natural scenery. Efficient train connections make traveling between them a breeze.

4. Netherlands and Belgium

Highlights:

• Netherlands: Begin in Amsterdam with its canals, museums, and vibrant nightlife. Explore the Dutch countryside with its tulip fields and windmills.
• Belgium: Head to Brussels for its grand squares and chocolate, Bruges for its medieval charm, and Ghent for a lively cultural scene.

Why Together? These neighboring countries offer a compact yet diverse experience. Their proximity and excellent train connections make it easy to enjoy the best of both worlds in a single trip.

5. Scandinavia: Denmark, Sweden, and Norway

Highlights:

• Denmark: Start in Copenhagen with its historic sites and modern design, then explore the Danish countryside and coastal towns.
• Sweden: Move to Stockholm for its stunning archipelago, then explore Gothenburg and the scenic beauty of Sweden’s forests and lakes.
• Norway: Continue to Oslo for its museums and fjords, and travel up the coast to experience the breathtaking natural landscapes of Norway.

Why Together? Scandinavia offers a unique blend of modern cities, rich history, and some of Europe’s most stunning natural scenery. Excellent public transport and well-organized travel routes make it easy to explore multiple countries.

6. Central Europe: Czech Republic, Austria, and Hungary

Highlights:

• Czech Republic: Start in Prague with its fairy-tale architecture, then explore the charming towns of Český Krumlov and Karlovy Vary.
• Austria: Visit Vienna for its classical music heritage, Salzburg for its baroque architecture, and the scenic beauty of the Austrian Alps.
• Hungary: End in Budapest, with its stunning Danube River views, thermal baths, and vibrant nightlife.

Why Together? This trio of countries offers a rich blend of culture, history, and stunning landscapes. They are well-connected by trains, making travel between them easy and enjoyable.

7. Eastern Europe: Poland and Slovakia

Highlights:

• Poland: Begin in Warsaw for its historic resilience, then move to Krakow for its medieval charm and nearby Auschwitz memorial, and the scenic Tatra Mountains.
• Slovakia: Cross into Slovakia to explore Bratislava’s old town, the High Tatras for hiking, and the historic castles dotting the countryside.

Why Together? Eastern Europe offers a fascinating mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. These countries are affordable and less crowded than their Western European counterparts, providing a more relaxed travel experience.

Tips for Planning Your Multi-Country Trip

• Travel Passes: Consider rail passes like the Eurail Pass for convenient and cost-effective travel between countries.
• Time Management: Ensure you allocate enough time to explore each destination without feeling rushed.
• Local Cuisine: Don’t miss out on the local food and drink specialties in each country.
• Cultural Events: Check for local festivals, concerts, and events that can enrich your travel experience.

Stay connected across Europe with a Nomad Travel eSIM

No matter where your interests brings you, stay connected on your trip with a Nomad travel eSIM. Nomad offers travel eSIMs for many European destinations, providing travelers with affordable data.

If you will be traveling across multiple countries in Europe, there is also a regional eSIM for Europe, allowing you to stay connected across 35+ countries with a single eSIM plan. Nomad also has a smaller Italy-France-Germany eSIM plan, providing more cost-effective options if you will only be visiting these countries!

Simply head to the Nomad web store or mobile app, find a plan that is suitable for your data usage habits and trip length, and complete the purchase! You will receive your eSIM installation kit in a matter of minutes, and you can add it to your device in just a few taps on your phone.

Do note that you will need an eSIM-compatible and unlocked device to be able to use a travel eSIM.