By: Angela Fulo
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A mother and daughter trip to Europe is not only an exciting adventure, it’s also a unique opportunity to strengthen that mother-daughter relationship and create unforgettable memories. Of course, every mother-daughter relationship is unique, and planning a European getaway can be tricky (especially if it’s your first trip). As such, I’ve compiled a list of interesting mother-daughter Europe trip ideas for you to draw inspiration from.
Read on and find out which destinations best suit you and your mother.
Now if you’re heading for a trip with your mom you might also want to have a look at the best travel gear:
Fun Mother Daughter Trip Ideas
Wine Tasting in Italy
- Best For: Wine Lovers & Foodies
- Best Time to Visit: Spring (although some wineries do offer unique winter wine tours)
- How to Get There: Fly into Milan or Rome
Italy is an unparalleled paradise for wine enthusiasts, making it an ideal destination for those seeking an unforgettable wine-tasting experience. Renowned for its rich viticultural history, Italy boasts a diverse range of wine regions, each offering distinct grape varieties, terroirs, and winemaking traditions.
Where to go?
Meander through centuries-old vineyards, and absorb the rich history and craftsmanship that define Italian winemaking. Amidst charming wineries and rustic cellars, the leisurely pace of Italian life allows for unhurried conversations, providing a perfect setting for heart-to-heart talks and laughter. Wines often reflect the culture and identity of the region they’re made in. With that said, here are some of the top wine-tasting destinations in Italy:
- Rome – While Rome isn’t necessarily a primary wine-tasting destination (compared to other regions), it’s definitely one of the best places to start your wine-tasting journey. The capital city is home to a number of excellent wine shops that feature wines from various Italian regions.
- Tuscany – With its rolling hills and charming villages, there’s not a lot of places in the world that can match Tuscany’s scenery. The region is known for its Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino.
- Veneto – One of Italy’s most important wine-growing areas, Veneto is famous for its bubbly, sparkling wines, especially Prosecco.
- Piedmont – If full-bodied reds are your thing, Piedmont should definitely be on you and your mom’s bucket list. Home to Barolo and Barbaresco, the Piedmont region is known for its robust wines, some of which are often compared to the Pinot Noirs of Burgundy.
- Umbria – Often overlooked, Umbria has a rich and ancient wine culture. While it’s famous for Orvieto, it also has a diverse offering of multifaceted red wines.
Shopping in London
- Best For: Fashion Enthusiasts and Art Lovers
- Best Time to Visit: Summer to enjoy good weather or Winter for the best sales
- How to Get There: Fly into London’s Heathrow Airport
London stands as a perennial shopping haven, captivating enthusiasts throughout the year with its diverse and dynamic retail landscape. The city’s iconic shopping districts are brimming with an array of boutiques, flagship stores, and high-end fashion outlets that cater to every taste and style preference.
What to do in London?
Of course, you may not share the same fashion sense with your mother, but if you’re both looking for some retail therapy, London promises an unparalleled bonding experience enriched with style, variety, and a touch of British charm. Not entirely sure where to start your shopping adventure? Check out my list below.
- Explore Oxford Street. If there’s only one place you can go shopping in London, it’s definitely Oxford Street. With 300 stores (from fashion to tech and entertainment), Oxford Street is a shopaholic’s paradise, especially during winter sales. Oxford Street also boasts hundreds of restaurants, so you and your mom can literally spend a whole day shopping here!
- Visit Harrods. If you’re looking for high-end designer goods, Harrods is a must-visit. With over 300 departments, it offers high-fashion clothing (some of which aren’t carried by any other department store in London), gourmet food items, and the latest gadgets.
- Go on a luxury food trip at Fortnum & Mason. This luxury department store offers the best in traditional British goods and gourmet offerings. If you’re looking to pick up a jar of premium honey, some top-notch loose leaf teas, and rare wines, you’ll find all of that and more at Fortnum & Mason.
- Tour Camden Market. If you’re looking for souvenirs and vintage clothing, then Camden Market is the place to be. Camden Market offers an eclectic shopping experience, with its diverse range of stalls offering vintage clothing, unique accessories, and handmade crafts.
- Discover London’s Carnaby Street. Known for trendy, independent, and sometimes one-off stores, Carnaby Street is a must-visit for fashion-forward shoppers.
Spa trip to Budapest
- Best For: Wellness seekers
- Best Time to Visit: Fall or Winter months for less crowds
- How to Get There: Fly into Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport
Budapest’s history dates back to the Roman era, and its stunning architecture reflects the influence of various periods, from the medieval Buda Castle to the neoclassical beauty of Pest’s grand boulevards. That said, beyond its architectural splendors, Budapest is renowned for its thermal baths, earning it the moniker “City of Spas.”
What to do?
The city’s thermal baths, fed by natural hot springs, have been integral to Budapest’s culture for centuries. Seamlessly blending historical charm with rejuvenating experiences, Budapest stands as an ideal destination for a mother-daughter wellness trip.
- Visit Gellért Baths. One of Budapest’s most famous thermal baths, Gellért Baths boasts stunning Art Nouveau architecture. It features thermal pools, saunas, various wellness services, and one of the world’s first wave machines!
- Visit Széchenyi Baths. Offering a mix of outdoor and indoor pools, Széchenyi is the largest medicinal bath in Europe. Built in 1913, the Széchenyi is built in Neo-Baroque style, and is known for its year-round pool parties.
- Visit Lukács Baths. While it’s definitely a more modest setting compared to the Gellért and the Széchenyi, Lukács Baths remains a favorite among locals due to its lower cost of admission. Its waters are particularly known for their healing properties.
- Visit Rudas Baths. Dating back to the 16th century, Rudas Baths is a Turkish bath with a unique octagonal pool. The rooftop thermal pool provides panoramic views of Budapest and the Danube–perfect if you’re setting in for a soak at night.
- Visit Palatinus Baths. Also known as the Palatinus Strand, the Palatinus is located on Margaret Island in the middle of the Danube. While it has undergone several renovations since its opening in the 20th century, it has preserved most of its historic charm.
Mother Daughter Adventure Trips
Tour Around Iceland
- Best For: Outdoor
- Best Time to Visit: June – August, November – January for the Aurora Borealis
- How to Get There: Fly into Reykjavík Int. Airport
The best way to experience Iceland is to rent a camper and drive around the island. The freedom of the open road allows you to chase the Northern Lights, linger by geothermal hot springs, and camp beneath the midnight sun. It’s a cliche, sure, but the journey really does become the destination–and there’s no duo better-suited to go on this journey than an adventurous mother-daughter duo!
What to do?
Exploring Iceland is nothing short of a cinematic adventure, where almost every turn unfolds a breathtaking spectacle of nature’s wonders. Start the trip with a visit to the capital, Reykjavik, where you can explore the vibrant street art scene, indulge in Icelandic cuisine at local eateries, and immerse yourselves in the unique culture. Next, well, here are my top 5 suggestions for what you have to do next:
- Take a Glacier Hike – I know what you’re thinking, and yes, a glacier hike is perfectly safe and enjoyable as long as you’re accompanied by a qualified guide. The two main glaciers explored by tour groups are Sólheimajökull and Vatnajökull, but if you’re staying in Reykjavík, the most popular glacier to visit on a day tour is Sólheimajökull.
- Ride a Zodiac on the Glacier Lagoon – If you really want to take in Iceland, riding a Zodiac boat across the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon provides a more intimate experience with Iceland’s glacial landscapes. Just imagine: you’re surrounded by towering ice formations, navigating an incredibly deep lake. It’s almost like exploring a completely different planet. Plus you’ll be following in the footsteps of James Bond and the tomb raider Lara Croft.
- Hike the Laugavegurinn trail and Fimmvorduhals trail – As long as you’re physically prepared for it, the Laugavegurinn trail and Fimmvorduhals trail are hands down the best multi-day hikes in Iceland. The Laugavegurinn trail is a 34-mile stretch that features glaciers, volcanic slopes, rhyolite mountains, hot springs, and lush alpine valleys. The Fimmvorduhals trail, on the other hand, is a wilder trail, featuring birch forests, volcanic craters, and the majestic Skógafoss Waterfall. While it’s only over 15 miles long, this includes around 1000 meters of climbing, and the ascent from Thórsmörk to the Fimmvorduhals pass is pretty steep. Now, is it worth training for this hike? Yes, a hundred percent.
- Drive the Golden Circle – If you’re not particularly inclined to embark on a trek, Iceland’s Golden Circle is a popular and iconic route that passes three of Iceland’s most visited attractions (even by locals). Starting in Reykjavík, you’ll drive to Þingvellir National Park, then to Geysir Geothermal Area and Gullfoss Waterfall.
- Explore various hot springs – Hot springs are not only relaxing, they also hold a deep cultural significance in Iceland. As such, exploring Iceland’s hot springs is a must for any tourist. While the Blue Lagoon is probably the island’s most popular hot spring (for good reason), the Sky Lagoon, Hellalaug, and Reykjadalur Hot Springs are also worth exploring!
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Explore History in Istanbul
- Best For: History Buffs
- Best Time to Visit: Mid-spring or Fall for more manageable crowd and humidity
- How to Get There: Fly into Istanbul Airport
Originally known as Byzantium and later Constantinople, it has served as the capital of the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman Empires, each leaving an indelible mark on its character. The echoes of history resonate through Istanbul’s cobbled streets and ancient structures. If you’re a history buff, or at least appreciate ancient cities and civilizations, then Istanbul should be on your itinerary.
What to do?
With a city this steeped in history, there’s tons of things to do and places to visit. Exploring Istanbul is like stepping into a living museum. While the city is replete with hidden gems, there are some iconic landmarks you can’t miss.
- Visit the Hagia Sophia – Go on a guided tour around the historic Hagia Sophia. Probably Istanbul’s most popular attraction, this masterpiece of Byzantine architecture was originally built as a cathedral during the 6th century. It now functions both as a museum and mosque.
- Explore the Grand Bazaar – Even if you’re not a big shopper, another way to soak up the city’s history is by exploring the Grand Bazaar. The Grand Bazaar is one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world, and houses over 4000 shops!
- Tour Istanbul’s Archaeology Museums – Go on a guided tour through Istanbul’s Archaeology Museums. The Archaeology Museum features historical artifacts in the Ottoman period; the Tiled Kiosk Museum (the oldest building in the compound) features Turkish tiles and ceramics from the Selcuk and Ottoman periods; lastly, the Museum of Ancient Orient displays various ancient sarcophagi and statues.
- Visit the Topkapi Palace Museum – Once the main residence of Ottoman sultans, this palace-turned-museum features beautiful courtyards, gardens, and a vast collection of artifacts.
- Explore the Blue Mosque – Known for its classical Ottoman architecture, the Blue Mosque is so named because of the predominantly blue Iznik tiles that adorn its interior. The mosque was built around 1616, and contains the remains of its founder.
Sail around the Greek Islands
- Best For: Beach Enthusiasts, History and Culture Buffs, Foodies
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and Fall
- How to Get There: Fly into Athens International Airport
Scattered like jewels across the Aegean and Ionian Seas, the Greek Islands embody a dreamlike escape into idyllic landscapes, rich history, and warm Mediterranean hospitality. With sun-soaked landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and a rich and deep history, you really can’t go wrong with visiting the Greek Islands for your mother-daughter trip to Europe.
What Islands to Visit
Whether seeking relaxation on pristine beaches, exploring archaeological wonders, or immersing oneself in vibrant local culture, the Greek Islands offer an ideal destination for a memorable and diverse vacation, catering to every taste and travel inclination. Each of these islands offer a postcard-perfect backdrop for a memorable mother-daughter trip:
- Crete – The largest Greek island, Crete is steeped in history and mythology. While there (if you’re not otherwise soaking up the sun on its gorgeous beaches), make sure to visit the Palace of Knossos, go on a hike in the Samaria Gorge, and go on a food trip in Hania.
- Naxos – Known for its beautiful beaches and charming traditional villages (which is saying something, considering it’s in Greece), Naxos is a must-visit for any tourist. Apart from spending time on the beach, make sure to explore Naxos Town, visit Kastra, and do some wine tasting at a local winery.
- Rhodes – Rhodes is mainly known for its history and stunning natural beauty. Make sure to make the most of your Rhodes trip by exploring the historic Rhodes Old Town, the Palace of the Grand Master, and the Monolithos Castle.
- Santorini – You probably already know this from the postcards, but Santorini is famous for its white-washed, blue-domed buildings overlooking its volcanic beaches. Once you’re done relaxing on this island’s unique beaches, you can take in Santorini’s scenery by going on a trek from Oia to Fira.
- Delos – Known the world over as an archaeological gem, Delos boasts ancient temples, ruins, theatres, and statues. Popular attractions here include the Temple of Isis, the House of Dionysus, and the Sanctuaries of the Foreign Gods.
Best Cities For Mother Daughter Trips
Paris, France
- Best For: Art and Culture Enthusiasts, History Buffs, Foodies
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and Fall
- How to Get There: Fly into Charles de Gaulle Airport
Standing as the epitome of sophistication, culture, and romance, Paris is a magical city for any tourist. This iconic metropolis, with its charm, artistic heritage, and elegant architecture, offers an enchanting backdrop for a mother-daughter getaway.
What to do?
Apart from its iconic landmarks (which you can’t miss), the city boasts world-class cuisine–from cozy bistros serving classic French dishes to Michelin-starred restaurants pushing culinary boundaries. Furthermore, Paris is a hub of art and fashion, with galleries showcasing works by masters like Monet and Picasso, and haute couture boutiques lining the streets. With that said, below are some of the best things to do in Ville lumière:
- Explore the Louvre Museum – The Louvre is home to thousands of works of art. Go on a guided tour and take in the museum’s incredible collection. Highlights include the Mona Lisa, The Wedding at Cana, and the Venus de Milo.
- Go on a cruise along the Seine – Regardless if you opt for a daytime or nighttime cruise, going on a Seine River cruise is one of the best ways to explore Paris and see all of its popular landmarks. I highly recommend a nighttime cruise, though.
- Visit the Eiffel Tower – Of course, if you’re new to Paris, you have to start your trip with a visit to the iconic Eiffel Tower. Try to catch the sunset while taking in the panoramic views of the city!
- Have a picnic at the Luxembourg Gardens – Take a leisurely stroll through the Luxembourg Gardens’ meticulously manicured grounds. Bring some snacks with you, and have a nice mom-daughter picnic on one of the designated picnic areas.
- Go shopping in Le Marais – Of course, no Paris trip is complete without a bit of retail therapy. Spend a day in the neighborhood of Le Marais and bond over trendy clothing, food, and wine.
Barcelona, Spain
- Best For: Art and Architecture Enthusiasts, History Buffs, Foodies
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and Fall
- How to Get There: Fly into Barcelona El-Prat Airport
Barcelona emerges as a captivating gem on Spain’s northeastern coast, renowned for its unique blend of culture, history, and avant-garde design. The city boasts a rich architectural landscape, and each of its iconic buildings stand as a testament to the city’s artistic spirit. Beyond its architectural marvels, Barcelona boasts miles of golden beaches along the Mediterranean Sea, and a culinary scene that showcases innovative Catalan cuisine.
What to do?
Barcelona is an enchanting city for a mother-daughter trip. As opposed to other European cities, it’s important to embrace spontaneity here and wander off the beaten path. With that said, while discovering lesser known neighborhoods and hidden gems is great, there are a few things you can’t miss while you’re in this great city.
- Visit the Gothic Quarter – Filled with charming squares, historic buildings, and boutiques, exploring the Gothic Quarter is a great way to start your Barcelona trip. Explore Picasso’s old haunts, and visit the Barcelona History Museum.
- Explore La Boqueria Market – One of Europe’s largest food markets, La Boqueria is known for its tapas bars (do not miss the tapas here) and restaurants, its colorful displays of fresh produce, and diverse culinary offerings. Go on a food trip here with your mom and I guarantee she’ll forgive you for that one time you had a party at your house while she was away.
- Stroll through La Rambla – Without a doubt Barcelona’s most popular boulevard, La Rambla is home to fantastic restaurants, flower stalls, and outdoor cafes. Make sure to spend at least half a day here. Get your mom some nice flowers at La Rambla dels Flors, catch a show at the Liceu opera house, or just pass the time sipping a cup of hot chocolate with your mom at the iconic Cafè de l’Òpera.
- Marvel at the works of Antoni Gaudi – The great Antoni Gaudi was a famous Catalan architect known for his highly individualized works, most of which are in Barcelona. There are 12 Gaudi buildings in Barcelona. If you’re pressed for time, make sure to at least check out La Sagrada Familia, Park Guell, Casa Batllo, Casa Vicens, and Casa Mila.
- Go on a mother-daughter date at Tibidado Amusement Park – For a fun and nostalgic experience, head to Tibidado Amusement Park, Spain’s longest running amusement park. Go on some of the park’s thrill rides, and relive your best childhood memories with your mom!
Prague, Czech Republic
- Best For: History and Architecture Enthusiasts, Foodies
- Best Time to Visit: Winter and Spring
- How to Get There: Fly into Vaclav Havel Airport Prague
Prague showcases a unique blend of history, architecture, and culture, making it an ideal getaway city for travelers seeking a unique European experience. Known as the “City of a Hundred Spires,” Prague’s skyline is adorned with stunning Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance buildings, each telling a story of the city’s rich past.
What to do?
Apart from its stunning architecture, Prague’s rich cultural scene encompasses world-class museums, theaters, and concert halls, showcasing everything from classical music to contemporary art. Moreover, Prague’s culinary landscape is equally enticing, with cozy taverns serving hearty Czech cuisine alongside trendy cafes and international restaurants. What sets Prague apart is its fairy-tale charm, evident in its cobblestone streets, charming alleyways, and hidden courtyards waiting to be discovered. All that said, below are 5 things you must do while visiting Prague:
- Walk across the Charles Bridge – Catch a sunrise or a sunset at the historic Charles Bridge. Offering picturesque views of Prague Castle and the Vltava River, walking across the Charles Bridge is one of the best ways to take in Prague and its people.
- Explore Prague Castle – The largest ancient castle complex in the world, Prague Castle is rich in history and (naturally) is home to its own popular attractions. Make sure to spend at least a day here. Take in the panoramic views of the city from the castle grounds.
- Experience Prague’s café culture – Prague is full of historic and trendy coffeehouses. You can’t really go wrong with any of their cafes, but I highly recommend visiting Cafe Imperial, EMA Espresso Bar, Café Letka, and Dos Mundos.
- Visit Vyšehrad Fortress – Located on a hill overlooking Vltava River, Vyšehrad Fortress is a historic fort built in the 10th century. While it has other attractions, its main attraction is the Vyšehrad Cemetery, where many notable Czech figures are buried–it’s also a perfectly fine park you can pass the time in.
- Explore Prague’s Old Town Square – Prague’s Old Town Square is located in the heart of the city. It is known for the incredible architectural gems the surround it, such as the Church of Our Lady before Tyn, the Church of St. Nicholas, and the Kinsky Palace. It is also known for its Christmas market.
Rome, Italy
- Best For: History Buffs, Art and Architecture Enthusiasts, Foodies
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and Fall
- How to Get There: Fly into Fiumicino Airport
Rome stands as the beating heart of Italy, a city that encapsulates the essence of the entire country within its ancient walls. The city is a timeless masterpiece of history, culture, and art. Additionally, the city’s relaxed ambiance and warm Mediterranean climate create an inviting atmosphere conducive to relaxation and rejuvenation, allowing a mother-daughter tandem to unwind and create lasting memories in one of the world’s most captivating cities.
What to do?
With its ancient ruins, majestic monuments, and Renaissance masterpieces, Rome offers a journey through millennia of human civilization. With that said, Rome is more than just a living museum; it is a vibrant metropolis where the past seamlessly intertwines with the present.
- Visit Vatican City – Whether you’re religious or not, Vatican City is a must-visit when you’re in Rome. Spend a day here and visit the Sistine Chapel, the magnificent St. Peter’s Basilica, the Collection of Modern Religious Art, and the Vatican Gardens.
- Explore the Colosseum – Go on a guided tour of the Colosseum and learn about its fascinating history. While primarily known for hosting gladiator contests and public spectacles, the way the seats are constructed also gives insights to class and class relations during the Roman empire (which, undoubtedly, is a great topic for a mother and daughter to bond over).
- Visit the Borghese Gallery – Housing an incredible collection of art, including works by Caravaggio, Raphael, Rubens, and Bernini, the Borghese Gallery is another must-visit for any tourist in Rome. Once you’re done exploring the collections, be sure to take a stroll through the Borghese Gardens.
- Tour the Campo de’ Fiori Market – One of the oldest markets in Rome, the Campo de’ Fiori market is a bustling square that features stalls selling fresh produce, local specialties, and of course, flowers. Spending a few hours here is a great way to take in Rome.
- Explore the Trastevere neighborhood – A lesser known attraction in Rome, Trastevere is home to historical churches, museums, and some of the city’s best bars and restaurants. Spend a day exploring this charming neighborhood and see a less explored side of Rome!
Tips for Mother Daughter Trips
Mother-daughter trips are great opportunities to strengthen the bond between you and your mother. That said, preparation is key when it comes to planning these kinds of trips. Make sure to consider the following when planning your mother-daughter Europe trip:
Visa Preparation
Before anything else, ensure you understand the visa requirements for each country you plan to visit (even if you’re only traveling within the EU, each country will most likely have different requirements).
Check the application process, processing times, and any supporting documents needed. Submit visa applications well in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles. Make sure you make copies of important documents and keep them in a separate bag. Lastly, make sure these documents are organized and easily accessible to you.
Itinerary Planning
Collaborative planning is key to the success of your trip. Discuss each of your interests and list down must-see attractions and must-do activities. Keep the schedule flexible to allow for spontaneous adventures and unexpected discoveries. Allow time for relaxation and bonding.
Packing Travel Essentials
Pack weather-appropriate and comfortable clothing. Consider versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched. Bring comfortable walking shoes suitable for exploring cities and tourist sites. A pair of dressier shoes for evenings may also be handy.
Apart from clothing, make sure to bring other essentials like: suitable power adapters for the countries you’ll be visiting, a camera or smartphone to capture memorable moments (don’t forget to bring charging cables and extra memory cards), and travel-sized toiletries that adhere to airline regulations (don’t forget to bring sunscreen and any prescription medication). While this isn’t necessarily an “essential,” you can document your shared experiences by bringing a small travel journal with you.
Safety and Health
Purchase comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost belongings. Research health precautions for each destination; make sure vaccinations are up-to-date and carry a basic first aid kit.
It’s also important to have a list of emergency contacts, including local authorities and embassy details. Moreover, make sure you have a reliable communication plan; thoroughly discuss what to do in case you get separated from each other–establish a meeting point in every destination.
Researching Cultural Etiquette
Make it a point to learn a few basic phrases in the local languages. This includes being aware of the different dialects specific to a region. Even if you can’t speak it fluently, it’s always good to have some rudimentary knowledge of the local language.
Moreover, research and respect local customs and traditions. This includes appropriate attire for religious sites and understanding tipping practices.
Finances
So you’ve saved up enough for the trip. Finances–done, right? Wrong.
First of all, you have to notify your bank of your travel dates to prevent any issues with card transactions abroad. Next, be wary of fluctuating exchange rates, and always have some local currency on hand for small purchases and for cash-only transactions.
Lastly, make plans to pay your regular bills. If you’re going to be on vacation for a while, you need to make sure you’re still paying your bills. Take advantage of online billing and payment systems (you can ask your bank about this if you’re not necessarily tech-savvy).
That’s all I’ve got for you, I wish you a pleasant mother daughter trip to Europe!
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