These 6 Cities Make the Best First European Trip From the U.S.

If you reside in the U.S., a European vacation likely lives on your travel list. And for many, Europe can feel like the obvious first international trip, but choosing where to actually go can be a bit daunting.

There are dozens of incredible cities to choose from, and once you start considering airfare, award space, transportation, and how to get from place to place, it gets overwhelming quickly. Thankfully, there are a handful of cities that relieve much of that stress.

While these aren’t necessarily the “best cities in all of Europe,” they’re still amazing places I’d recommend for someone’s first trip because they’re relatively easy to reach and navigate, and you certainly won’t be bored.

Here’s how to use points and miles to reach 6 European cities worthy of your first hop over the pond.

How To Book Your First European Trip With Points and Miles

Friend to friend, I wouldn’t decide to fly to Barcelona on May 14 and stay at the Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona, and then pray your points can magically get you there.

If you’re flexible, I’d recommend reversing the process: Search for award availability from your home airport (and potentially nearby airports), and let the best options help determine your destinations and dates. This gives your rewards space to breathe.

There are a few beginner-friendly points ecosystems, such as Flying Blue, Aeroplan, and Avios, that are accessible through multiple transferable currencies and offer many ways to Europe. Having a decent stash of points and miles, whether from a welcome offer, everyday spending, or both, is step one.

Whether you’re sitting on Capital One miles, Chase Ultimate Rewards, American Express Membership Rewards, Citi ThankYou Points, Wells Fargo Rewards, or Bilt Points, flexible rewards are key.

6 Best Cities for Your First Trip to Europe

There’s some obvious subjectivity to this list, but there’s also some practicality, especially when you consider factors such as award space, transportation, language barriers, and so on. You could certainly argue for changes here, but if you’re looking for something relatively easy to plan for your first time, look no further.

London

This might be the easiest place to start. There is plenty of nonstop service from the U.S., no language barrier for English speakers, incredible public transportation, and enough sights and bites that planning pretty much takes care of itself.

Points-wise, I’d recommend Virgin Atlantic Flying Club, Air Canada Aeroplan, Flying Blue, or Avios, but keep in mind that U.K.-bound awards often come with hefty taxes and fees. For example, here’s a look at some of Virgin Atlantic’s saver rewards fares for May 2027, with one-way economy seats starting at 6,000 points, plus taxes and fees.

Even with decent taxes and fees, that May 4, 2027, date, for example, is an excellent use of 6,000 points across all major transferable programs, especially during the shoulder season.

London is also super easy to reach from Paris via the Eurostar, a train that connects the 2 cities. I’ve personally used the Eurostar a few times and have only positive things to say about the experience.

Hot Tip:

A 20k-point flight isn’t necessarily a better deal than a 30k-point flight if the first one comes with $400 in taxes and fees. Always compare the mileage price and the cash cost before transferring points.

Paris

Paris is widely regarded as one of the sexiest destinations for many reasons. It’s truly a romantic city, and given the abundance of historic sites, solid museums, and stellar culinary scene, you won’t be bored here either.

It comes with extensive U.S. service, easy transportation once you’re there, and one of the most approachable award programs for beginners in Air France-KLM Flying Blue. Their monthly Promo Rewards, which offer up to 25% off award tickets, make Paris especially appealing.

At the time of writing, Flying Blue’s Promo Rewards offer economy flights between Europe and Chicago (ORD), Miami (MIA), and Washington (IAD) starting at 18,750 miles one-way, and business class flights between Europe and Minneapolis (MSP) starting at 45,000 miles one-way, among others.

Once you’re in the city, you don’t need a card, as the Metro gets you around just fine, while high-speed trains make London, Amsterdam, Brussels, and other spots realistic additions to a longer trip.

Dublin

Dublin is a personal favorite. My husband and I visited for the first time last year, and both agree that Ireland, in general, is one of our favorite corners of the world.

Dublin’s big selling point is how approachable it feels for a first trip across the Atlantic. From the East Coast, the flight isn’t much longer than some transcontinental U.S. flights, English is widely spoken, and it’s a manageable city to tackle on a shorter trip.

For awards, Aer Lingus and Avios are the most obvious picks. If there’s space with both, Aer Lingus gets the Irish vibes going before you’ve even left the U.S., which makes the trip even more fun. Off-peak economy seats to and from many U.S. cities, including Indianapolis (IND), Boston (BOS), and Nashville (BNA), start at just 13,000 points one-way. (Source: Aer Lingus).

Although it’s a bit farther from the Continent, Dublin is still a great gateway to the rest of Europe. You don’t necessarily need to spend your entire vacation in Ireland, but the country certainly offers enough to fill an entire trip. If you do stay in Ireland, I’d recommend renting a car and planning as little as possible. The best spots in Ireland are the ones you happen upon randomly.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is compact, walkable, and incredibly well-connected by public transportation. It’s one of those cities where you can land without having every minute of your trip mapped out, which can feel more relaxing than some of these other options.

KLM and Flying Blue should offer solid award redemptions, especially since Flying Blue partners with all major transferable points currencies. If you’re looking beyond economy, you can find award seats from several U.S. cities to Amsterdam (AMS) one-way in KLM business class from 60,000 Flying Blue miles, plus taxes and fees.

Amsterdam Centraal also makes this another great starting or ending point for a multicity European trip. That said, one bite of apple pie with cream from Winkel 43 and you’ll find it tough to leave the country.

Barcelona

Barcelona offers something a little different from northern European spots: stellar beaches, tapas galore, unique architecture, warmer weather, and an easy introduction to Spain. Public transportation means there’s little reason to rent a car, which is an added bonus.

For flights, I’d check the Avios program first, but Iberia is another option, along with other Oneworld airlines. AAdvantage, ANA, and United Airlines MileagePlus also offer some sweet spots.

If your mental image of a European vacation involves sitting outside with a glass of sangria, wandering through neighborhoods with idyllic buildings, and walks along the beach, Barcelona is your girl.

Lisbon

Recency bias is real, and since I visited Lisbon in May of this year, it’s probably my top recommendation right now. And like other cities listed, Lisbon can be both the destination and the gateway.

You have TAP Air Portugal service from several U.S. cities, plus award possibilities through the Star Alliance program, such as Aeroplan. Once there, expect a decent amount of walking. And hills. Lots of hills.

While there is public transportation, many people prefer getting around on foot. There’s plenty to do and see in Lisbon, but you’re also close to places like Porto, the Douro Valley, and Spain.

Search for Award Space Before Choosing the Destination

If you’re sitting on a decent stash of points and miles and just know you want to go to Europe, that’s a great position to be in.

My advice? Don’t make your points fit a trip you’ve already planned. See where your points could take you first, because it might surprise you. Having flexibility in your dates and destinations will lead to better options. You could be staring at award seats for several different cities on the list during your kid’s spring break, which would be a great problem to have.

Consider a Positioning Flight

Simply put, positioning flights are short hops that put you in your chosen departure city. The reality of award travel is that you’ll find the most availability at major U.S. airports, meaning JFK will simply offer more one-way flights to London than Nashville International Airport (BNA).

Some smaller airports throughout the U.S. don’t even offer direct flights to Europe. If that’s true of your home airport, a quick positioning flight to a larger hub could save you in the long run, especially if you find a solid points deal.

Hot Tip:

If you’re planning to book a positioning flight, leave plenty of buffer time when you’re traveling on separate tickets.

Best Credit Cards for Your First European Trip

If it’s your first time traveling from the U.S. to Europe, or anywhere for that matter, you should absolutely prioritize transferable rewards. Locking yourself into a specific program limits your flight options for both destinations and dates.

The good news? You don’t need to hold a dozen cards to take a great points trip to Europe. You just need something with transferable points, no foreign transaction fees, and some solid travel protections and perks.

I’d recommend looking at cards such as the Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card (my first travel card), the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card, or the Citi Strata Premier^® Card, all of which offer solid welcome offers, strong points-earning potential, and travel perks.

BEST FIRST TRAVEL CARD

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

A fantastic travel card with a great welcome offer, good benefits, and perks for a moderate annual fee.

Apply Now(at Chase's secure site)

Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card

A fantastic travel card with a great welcome offer, good benefits, and perks for a moderate annual fee.

Welcome Offer

Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

75,000 points

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$1,500

Annual Fee

$95

APR

19.49 - 27.74% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

The Chase Sapphire Preferred card bonus categories include travel, dining, online grocery purchases (excluding Walmart, Target, and wholesale clubs), gas, EV charging, vacation home rentals with top brands, and streaming services.

It offers flexible point redemption options, no foreign transaction fees, and strong travel insurance coverage, including primary car rental insurance. If you travel a few times a year and spend on dining, the card is likely to be a good choice, but it’s hard to justify if you don’t dine out or travel often.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 5x points on all travel booked via Chase Travel
• 3x points on dining purchases, online grocery purchases (excluding Walmart, Target, and wholesale clubs), gas, EV charging, vacation home rentals with top brands (such as Airbnb and Vrbo), and select streaming services
• 2x points on all other travel worldwide

Cons

• $95 annual fee
• Subject to Chase’s 5/24 application restrictions

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
• Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, 3x on vacation homes at top brands, 3x on gas & EV charging, 3x on top streaming services and online groceries (excluding Walmart, Target, and wholesale clubs), 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.
• Earn up to $100 in statement credits each account anniversary year for hotel stays through Chase Travel.
• Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Coverage, Emergency Evacuation and Transportation, and more.
• Get a year of complimentary Apple TV when activated by December 31, 2026 - a value of $180.
• Complimentary DashPass membership, a $120 value for 12 months. Enjoy $0 delivery fees and reduced service fees on eligible DoorDash orders, plus exclusive Chase savings on grocery, everyday essentials, and more. Activate by 12/31/29.
• Receive one statement credit of up to $120 every four years as reimbursement for the application fee charged to your card for a Global Entry, TSA Precheck^® or NEXUS application.
• Transfer points to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs.
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 19.49 - 27.74% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Chase Ultimate Rewards

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The Capital One Venture X card is an excellent option for travelers looking for an all-in-one premium credit card.

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One Venture X card is an excellent option for travelers looking for an all-in-one premium credit card.

Welcome Offer

Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

75,000 miles

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$1,350

Annual Fee

$395

APR

Purchases: 19.74% - 28.74% (Variable)

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

Excellent

Why We Like This Card

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is the premium Capital One travel rewards card on the block.

Points and miles fans will be surprised to see that the Capital One Venture X card packs quite the punch when it comes to bookings made through Capital One, all while offering the lowest annual fee among premium credit cards.

Depending on your travel goals and preferences, the Capital One Venture X card could very well end up being your go-to card in your wallet.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 10x miles per $1 on hotels and rental cars purchased through Capital One Travel
• 5x miles per $1 on flights and vacation rentals purchased through Capital One Travel
• 2x miles per $1 on all other purchases

Cons

• $395 annual fee
• Does not offer bonus categories for flights or hotel purchases made directly with the airline or hotel group, the preferred booking method for those looking to earn elite status

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
• Receive a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
• Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary
• Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5X miles on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel
• Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
• Enjoy access to 1,300+ lounges worldwide, including Capital One Lounge and Landing locations and participating Priority Pass™ lounges, after enrollment
• Use your Venture X miles to easily cover travel expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars and more—you can even transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
• Enjoy a $100 experience credit and other premium benefits with every hotel and vacation rental booked from the Premier Collection
• Receive up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck^®
• Top rated mobile app

Financial Snapshot

• APR: Purchases: 19.74% - 28.74% (Variable)
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Capital One Miles

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Citi Strata Premier^® Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Apply Now(at our partner's secure site)

Citi Strata Premier^® Card

Welcome Offer

Earn 60,000 bonus ThankYou^® Points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months of account opening, redeemable for $600 in gift cards or travel rewards at thankyou.com.

60,000 Points

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$960

Annual Fee

$95

APR

19.74% to 27.74% Variable

Why We Like This Card

The Citi Strata Premier^® Card is a great all-around travel rewards card that allows you to earn big rewards on a variety of purchases like air travel, at restaurants, supermarkets, gas stations, and more, along with flexible redemption options, all for a modest annual fee.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 10x points on hotels, car rentals, and attractions booked through CitiTravel.com
• 3x points on air travel, other hotel purchases, restaurants, supermarkets, gas stations, and EV charging stations
• $100 annual hotel benefit

Cons

• $95 annual fee

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 60,000 bonus ThankYou^® Points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months of account opening, redeemable for $600 in gift cards or travel rewards at thankyou.com.
• Earn 10 Points per $1 spent on Hotels, Car Rentals, and Attractions booked on CitiTravel.com.
• Earn 3 Points per $1 on Air Travel and Other Hotel Purchases, at Restaurants, Supermarkets, Gas and EV Charging Stations.
• Earn 1 Point per $1 spent on all other purchases
• $100 Annual Hotel Benefit: Once per calendar year, enjoy $100 off a single hotel stay of $500 or more (excluding taxes and fees) when booked through CitiTravel.com. Benefit applied instantly at time of booking.
• No expiration and no limit to the amount of points you can earn with this card
• No Foreign Transaction Fees on purchases

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 19.74% to 27.74% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

If you’re just getting started in the points-and-miles world, 1 solid transferable-points card can be enough.

Hot Tip:

If lounges are a priority for you, here are our top picks for cards that include lounge access.

Final Thoughts

Your first trip from the U.S. to Europe doesn’t need to involve renting a car, learning the ins and outs of 14 airline loyalty programs, or cramming 5 countries into 9 days. Pick somewhere that’s easy to reach, easy to navigate, and somewhere you’re actually excited about.

London, Paris, Dublin, Amsterdam, Barcelona, and Lisbon all fit that profile, and having transferable points and miles gives you the flexibility to let award availability help decide which one to visit first.