Itinerary for traveling to Europe for the first time: 3 essential destinations

Traveling to Europe for the first time is an exciting experience that allows you to discover cultures, gastronomy, and history all in one trip. One of the great advantages of this continent is the ease of travel between countries thanks to its efficient high-speed rail network, which allows you to visit several cities in just a few days.

If you're planning your first trip to Europe , we recommend a tour of three unmissable destinations : Madrid, Paris, and Rome , three vibrant capitals that capture the essence of the Old Continent .

The journey can begin in Madrid , a destination that often has direct flights from major South American capitals, including Santiago . This city is perfect as your first stop in Europe and stands out for its vibrant atmosphere that blends tradition and modernity .

Travel to Europe, travel to Madrid

The most important thing about Madrid is that it offers a wide variety of tourist attractions . You can't miss the Royal Palace , an architectural gem with over 3,000 rooms . Also, the Prado Museum houses works by iconic artists such as Velázquez and Goya .

Walk along the Paseo del Prado until you reach the majestic Cibeles Fountain , where you can enjoy one of the city's most iconic views. Another must-see is the Plaza Mayor , the most emblematic square in the Spanish capital, where you can sample a platter of Serrano ham and other snacks.

Stroll down Gran Vía , brimming with shops, theaters, and restaurants , or head to Puerta del Sol , the heart of Madrid and home to the famous statue of the bear and the strawberry tree . As for food, the Spanish capital is famous for its tapas and traditional dishes like cocido madrileño (Madrid stew) and calamari sandwiches . Pair your meal with a glass of tinto de verano (red wine and lemonade) or a small beer at a local tavern.

From Madrid , you can take a high-speed train that will get you to Paris in approximately 10 hours . There's also the option of an overnight journey to save time and wake up in the French capital ready to explore.

In addition, just 2 hours and 30 minutes by train from Madrid , you can discover Barcelona , another city you can add to the circuit.

Barcelona and Madrid (6 days / 5 nights)

'Oh là là' Paris

Paris is undoubtedly one of the world's most iconic cities. With its blend of art, history, and romance , it's a must-see destination for any first-time traveler to Europe .

In Paris , a visit to the Eiffel Tower is a must. You should also explore the Louvre Museum , home to the Mona Lisa , and stroll down the Champs-Élysées to the Arc de Triomphe . If you prefer a more bohemian experience, the Montmartre district will surprise you with its cobblestone streets and the famous Wall of Love .

The French capital is known for its exquisite cuisine . Be sure to try a croissant at a boulangerie , a cup of onion soup , or the famous boeuf bourguignon . To drink, accompany your meal with a glass of French wine or try the traditional café au lait .

From Paris , you can take an overnight train to Rome , which takes approximately 14 hours , or combine a high-speed journey to Milan and then continue on to the Italian capital .

Rome, a city for all eras

The adventure of traveling to Europe for the first time culminates in Rome , the Eternal City . With its rich history and vibrant atmosphere , it's a destination that will transport you back in time.

One of Rome 's biggest attractions is the Colosseum , a symbol of the Roman Empire . You can also visit the Roman Forum , the Pantheon , and the iconic Trevi Fountain , where it's said that tossing a coin guarantees your return to the city .

Don't forget to visit the Vatican , home to the majestic St. Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel with Michelangelo 's frescoes.

As for food , Rome offers some of the most delicious dishes in Italy . Try authentic pasta carbonara , Roman pizza , or supplì (cheesy rice croquettes). Accompany your meal with a glass of wine or finish your dinner with a traditional espresso .

This tour of Madrid, Paris, and Rome is the perfect plan for travelers who want to experience the best of Europe on their first trip . Thanks to the excellent train connections , getting around between these capital cities is easy and comfortable , making that dream of traveling to Europe a reality. Bon voyage!

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