2 weeks in Europe-What should I see?

Catherine,
I agree with the previous answer that the choices are up to you, but there are a few questions you can ask yourself to narrow down your options: Are there any countries or specific sites you've always dreamed about visiting or heard about that sounded interesting? Have you studied a foreign language and want to try it out in a place that speaks it? Do you have European ancestry and have any interest in seeing the "motherland"? What kind of activities and interests do you like (indoor/outdoor, art vs history vs food, etc.)? What kind of budget will you have to spend on travel? Answering these will go a long way to getting the conversation started. Then respond here and people will give you lots of advice. BTW, my signature line says DC, but I'm an Arlingtonian, too. Cheers, Matt

I'm sure you mean well, but we have no more business telling you what to see than we have telling you what to wear or what to eat. To take tourism seriously, you have to do research - read guide books, go online, google search, whatever - to find out what there is to see. Then you have to do some self-study and ask yourself what you are most interested in. Once YOU have decided what you want to see, the people here are very good at helping you accomplish that in the most efficient, practical fashion. There are so many things to see in Europe, there is no way we can help until you provide a location and likes/dislikes. Get to work... ;)

we need a little more info where are you coming from before your two weeks? where will you be flying home from? (if you know) what are your interests?
when in summer?

Catherine, if I recommend something that I really liked but you find it boring, a waste of time and money are you going to hold it against me or those who recommended something "that guy said we should see this, I hate this and him!" Seriously, you need to meet us half way, do a little research and narrow it down.

Catherine.... first time to Europe I am sure you probably have the well known highlights in mind, but I will tell you a few of my favorite things. If you go to Venice try to take a day trip to Burano... fun village and beautiful scenery on the boat trip. My favoite place to visit in Switzerland is Lugano... beautiful town and I had the best asparagus risotto there on my first trip to Europe. As far as Austria I prefer Salzburg to any other place. I love the size of the city and it is perfect for walking with lots to see. How will you be traveling.... car or train? There are some beautiful drives in Austria. If you like a little larger city of course Vienna is a beautiful place. I am sure if you come with a few specifics you will get more advice.
There is nothing like your first trip to Europe!

I don't want to seem "Old" but I would say, don't overdo it. My husband and I did way too much in a 2 week trip to Italy and ended up exhausted (we're in our late 30s). We loved everything we did but still reflect back on "If we only had more time in ___" Flights are expensive, but Europe isn't going anywhere. Pick a few places (maybe one place every 5 days) and enjoy it. take in the character of the place, meet the proprietor of the local cafe, and take side trips if needed. Honestly, doing the whirlwind tour is not how you should experience Europe! If you are staying anywhere in Italy I would recommend Orvieto. It is a gorgeous town not far from Rome or Florence (1 hour and 1.5 hour, respectively). It is also WAY cheaper than staying in either city. Honestly, it is a beautiful town that can only be truly expereinced by staying over. And again, way cheap lodging!!! At night, especially on the weekends, Roman young people flock to Orvieto and the town turns into a very refined party (free drinks and snacks included), so it's got a very lively yet not trashy atmosphere. Whatever you do, don't rush to see EVERYTHING. Enjoy, have fun and don't be afraid to try the language.

How true..."there's nothing like your first trip to Europe." Maybe you might want to return to a place or two which you saw with the school program for a more thorough visit. Is Vienna included in that itinerary?

Go to Berlin and Hamburg. Lots of fun and plenty to see, plus they are budget friendly From there travel on to Amsterdam and Brugge. Study some guide books or spend some time with Google finding out cities that interest you. After all, my best may not be your best. Or would you like me to wax poetic about vaulting or fachwerk buildings?