36 days in Europe Itinerary

Take a trip up north and visit Norway, the land of fjords, northern lights, unspoiled nature, and friendly communities. Norway is a haven for holidaymakers who enjoy the outdoors, with numerous resorts for downhill skiing and snowboarding, as well as countless trails for hiking in the summer or dog sledding and cross-country skiing in the winter. Norway's cities combine historical and modern architecture and feature a selection of museums, art galleries, and performance venues. Meanwhile, traditional ways of life, local customs, and crafts are celebrated in many open-air and ethnological museums across the land. Even though the country has a modern and elaborate system of roads, Norway continues to foster its ancient connection with the sea. Take to the waters yourself with tours of the scenic coast, fjords, or whale watching.

Once the land of the Vikings, Sweden today combines a long and fascinating history with a propensity for the very modern. The grand Romanesque churches that dot the countryside contrast with the clean, simple lines and partiality for organization the country is known for. With its reverence for the shy, reserved, and considerate, the nation exudes a sensation of being comfortable. Peek into the quiet lives from afar, gather around traditional "fika" coffee with loved ones, or dine on meatballs, herring, and potatoes. Immerse yourself in nature among the forests and trails so respected by their citizens, and take in the latest design and cultural offerings in this modest yet aesthetically savvy country.

Few places manage to capture the world's imagination quite like Greece, a land of sun-kissed coastlines, tranquil whitewashed villages, lively seaside towns, and well-preserved ancient sites. One of the world's top tourist destinations since ancient times, the country draws nearly 20 million visitors each year. Athens, the birthplace of Western civilization, continues to attract the biggest crowds and serves as a base for exploring the country and its 227 inhabited islands. Away from its cities, Greece features a picturesque countryside of olive groves, vineyards, and tiny settlements nestled against rolling hills and rugged mountain ranges. Explore the old mainland on foot and discover the islands on a guided boat or ferry tour.

As part of the French Riviera, Monaco offers the sparkling aquamarine waters of the Mediterranean Sea on its doorstep. The country has long been known for its panache--fast cars, big casinos, and expensive boutiques surround you here. While there are less luxurious activities for travelers, this is not the country for tourists on a budget. Many cruise ships make this a port of call in this region, so expect to see these vessels and large yachts as part of the landscape here.