2024 Europe: 53-Day Grand Adventure
Our family embarked on an incredible 53-day journey across Europe, exploring 12 countries and creating memories that will last a lifetime. From iconic landmarks and historic cities to breathtaking landscapes and culinary discoveries, we experienced the rich cultural tapestry that makes Europe so special.
Travel Day: Georgia to Paris
Pre-dawn car trouble couldn't stop our European adventure - car swap, smooth Atlanta/JFK travels with Chick-fil-A mission, pleasant JetBlue overnight flight to Paris, landing at CDG at 6:45 AM to begin 53-day journey across 12 countries.
Versailles & Paris
Amazing Race-style chaos getting to Versailles with flooded stations, failed tickets, and turnstile jumping, but worth it for the opulent palace tour and gardens with French baguettes. Luxury Mercedes Uber back, early hostel check-in, naps, grocery shopping, and Madison's rock climbing finale.
Strasbourg, France
Four days in this charming Alsatian city where French and German cultures blend, featuring the stunning Gothic Cathedral, picturesque La Petite France Quarter, and wonderful family-friendly walkable neighborhoods.
Zurich, Switzerland
An exciting day trip from Strasbourg featuring a scenic Black Forest train journey, Rhine Falls views, and split exploration of Zurich's Old Town and running culture.
Freiburg, Germany
Two days in this charming Black Forest university town featuring Gothic cathedral exploration, hillside hiking adventures, and delightful market discoveries.
Zermatt, Switzerland
A brief but unforgettable stop in the car-free alpine village to witness the iconic Matterhorn during our scenic journey from Freiburg to Interlaken.
Interlaken & Iseltwald, Switzerland
Four days of Swiss Alpine perfection in lakeside Iseltwald, featuring Jungfraujoch's 'Top of Europe,' Lake Brienz kayaking, wildlife encounters, and cozy chalet living.
Travel Day: Switzerland to Germany via Liechtenstein
An epic nine-train journey from Switzerland to Germany that became an unforgettable adventure featuring cows, Liechtenstein, train troubles, and an unexpected overnight in Ulm.
Munich, Germany
Several days of Bavarian exploration featuring fairy-tale Neuschwanstein Castle, royal Nymphenburg Palace, authentic beer gardens, and mastering Munich's public transport.
Vienna & Salzburg, Austria
Austrian adventure through musical Salzburg and imperial Vienna, featuring Schönbrunn Palace, the world's oldest zoo, and Mozart's homeland.
Bratislava, Slovakia
A quick but memorable day trip to Slovakia's compact capital featuring charming Old Town exploration, fusion cuisine discovery, and an unexpected changing of the guard ceremony.
Budapest, Hungary
Four days exploring Hungary's stunning capital with thermal baths, the grand Parliament building, Jewish Quarter history, and breathtaking Danube River views.
Prague, Czech Republic
Three days in the magical 'City of a Hundred Spires' featuring Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, astronomical clock, and fairy-tale medieval architecture.
Nuremberg, Germany
Exploring this historic Bavarian city's medieval fortress, WWII trial sites, traditional bratwurst culture, and well-preserved Old Town charm.
Dresden, Germany
Two days in the 'Florence of the North' discovering baroque architecture, the magnificent Frauenkirche, and Dresden's remarkable post-war reconstruction.
Berlin, Germany
Germany's dynamic capital featuring Brandenburg Gate, Holocaust Memorial, Berlin Wall history, and vibrant modern culture in a reunified city.
Szczecin, Poland
A brief but meaningful stop in this Polish port city showcasing Eastern European charm, local culture, and adding another country to our journey.
Hannover, Germany
Three days in Lower Saxony's capital featuring beautiful royal gardens, historic old town charm, and memorable family experiences in this overlooked German gem.
Brussels, Belgium
Three days exploring Belgium's capital and EU headquarters, featuring Grand Place, famous waffles, chocolate discoveries, and impressive European architecture.
Luxembourg City, Luxembourg
Three days in Europe's financial capital featuring dramatic cliff-top old town, modern EU institutions, and the unique character of this small but wealthy nation.
Paris, France
Final European stop in the City of Light featuring Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, charming neighborhoods, and a perfect farewell to our amazing journey.
Boston, Mass
Journey home through Boston featuring travel adventures, airport logistics, and the bittersweet conclusion of our incredible European family adventure.