Packing for Europe: 4 Day Weekends
After nearly three years of travel across 24 countries, we've perfected our packing and travel routine. We prefer checked luggage for convenience, especially with a toddler, and rely on packing cubes, a toiletry bag, and essential travel items to stay organized. We also have a few go-to toddler travel hacks, like using a lightweight carseat and stroller. Simple airport tips and strategies, such as color-coded passports and PriorityPass for lounges, also help make our trips run smoothly.
Hungary: Budapest
With its rich history, stunning architecture, and abundance of kid-friendly activities, Budapest proved to be the perfect destination for a long weekend. From soaking in the Széchenyi Thermal Baths to exploring interactive museums and breathtaking city views, we found something for every member of the family. Check out this post for travel tips, hidden gems, and lessons learned (including the realities of traveling with a toddler!).
Austria: Vienna // Slovakia: Bratislava
Vienna completely took me by surprise with how quickly and easily I fell in love with it. We were only there for a four-day weekend (as per usual), but I’d go back in a heartbeat to keep exploring. After a quick flight from Naples and an easy train ride into the city, we checked in, grabbed a bite to eat, and started getting ready for the main event—the Officers’ Ball at the Hofburg Palace. It’s been on my Europe bucket list since moving here, and thanks to my mom flying in to babysit, we got to experience every magical moment.
Greece: Delphi, Meteora & Athens
We spent an incredible 4 day weekend in Greece to celebrate our 6 year wedding anniversary and as our “Labor Day” weekend trip. The way things work for my partner’s command, he has a four day weekend for almost every US federal holiday. We are able to travel within Europe without taking leave, or PTO, over those weekends. On this trip, we managed to squeeze in Delphi, Meteora, and Athens.
Andorra: My 20th Country
We spent Thanksgiving in Andorra and it took us by surprise how much we loved it! We were definitely there in the shoulder season because there was no snow and the ski season hasn’t started so it was quiet, but the scenery is unreal. Andorra is a tiny principality (non-EU) tucked away between France and Spain in the Pyrenees mountains. It was about a 2.5 hour drive from Barcelona.
36 Hours in Paris
After a whirlwind few days in Marseille for the Olympics, our travel plans shifted and we found ourselves with 36 unexpected hours in Paris. With a toddler, last-minute hotel points, and zero expectations, we squeezed in river views, croissants, Eiffel Tower sparkles, and just enough magic to fall in love with the city.
Paris 2024 Olympics in Marseilles
Join us for a family-friendly adventure to the 2024 Paris Olympics—without the Paris crowds. We spent three unforgettable days in Marseille attending Olympic sailing and football events, exploring charming Endoume, swimming with official Paris 2024 floats, and taking a 4x4 safari with Camargue Autrement to see flamingos, wild horses, and local wineries. This travel blog covers where we stayed, what we ate, and why Marseille was the perfect home base for our Olympic experience.
Montenegro: Bay of Kotor
This has been one of my absolute favorite trips. One of my best friends was born in Montenegro and to visit her home was really special. The beauty of this country cannot be overstated. Highly recommend a trip here!! It was a great balance of relaxation for us and fun for our toddler.