Planning an epic European vacation doesn’t need to empty your wallet. With the right points and miles strategy, you can jet off, stay in comfort, and explore for half the cost (or less!). Here’s how to turn those points into a dream 15-day European itinerary.
Fly First Class (Without the First-Class Price Tag)
Booking premium flights is a smart way to kickstart your European adventure. Use transferable points from programs like Chase Ultimate Rewards, American Express Membership Rewards, or Capital One Miles. Partner airlines like Air France-KLM’s Flying Blue, British Airways Executive Club, or Virgin Atlantic Flying Club offer sweet spots to fly business class to Europe for as few as 50,000 miles one-way. Always keep an eye out for transfer bonuses that can stretch your points even further.
Plan Your City-Hopping Route
Europe’s interconnectedness makes multi-city trips super attainable. Start in major hubs like Paris, Rome, or Amsterdam. Use budget-friendly airlines, trains, or even point-based short-haul redemptions with Avios for moving between cities. Map out a loop or a one-way journey that makes sense geographically and aligns with where your points can shine. Booking an “open-jaw” flight, where you fly into one city and out of another, saves both time and money.
Book Hotels with Points for Maximum Comfort
Hotel stays can quickly become the priciest part of your trip. Fortunately, using points from loyalty programs like Marriott Bonvoy, Hilton Honors, or IHG One Rewards can dramatically cut costs. For luxury seekers, Marriott’s properties in Paris or Hilton’s iconic hotels in Rome offer memorable stays for around 50,000–80,000 points per night. If you’re exploring smaller cities, programs like World of Hyatt can offer incredible value with mid-tier properties going for just 12,000–20,000 points per night!
Combine Points and Cash to Stretch Your Budget
To maximize your stay, consider booking a mix of full-point redemptions and Points + Cash rates. This approach saves your points while reducing out-of-pocket expenses. It’s especially useful in major tourist hotspots where peak nights can be pricey. Combine your hotel points with stays booked through programs like Capital One Travel, where you can use miles to offset cash costs.
Get Around Using Train Passes and Car Rentals
Europe’s trains offer a scenic, efficient way to explore. Redeem Chase Ultimate Rewards or Capital One Miles for tickets with Eurostar or other regional rail services via their travel portals. For those craving a road trip, renting a car using flexible points or paying with a card that earns travel rewards and offers rental car insurance can simplify your travels.
Dining and Attractions on a Points Budget
Save on dining and attractions by leveraging dining credits or cards with high points-earning potential at restaurants. The American Express® Gold Card or Chase Sapphire Reserve® offer strong returns on dining. For attractions, explore whether your travel card provides travel credits or exclusive offers. Redeeming points via portals like Chase’s Pay Yourself Back feature can also reimburse eligible travel expenses.
Make Use of Lounge Access for a Smooth Journey
During your 15-day adventure, take advantage of lounge access perks for relaxing between flights and train rides. Cards that offer Priority Pass or lounges like Centurion make long travel days easier.
Protect Your Investment with Travel Insurance
Ensure your points-funded vacation stays stress-free with comprehensive travel insurance. Many premium cards automatically cover trip interruptions, cancellations, and lost luggage. Double-check your card’s benefits guide before you travel.
Your 15-day European vacation doesn’t have to come with a jaw-dropping price tag. With strategic use of points and travel hacks, you can enjoy a first-class experience at a fraction of the cost. From flights to stays and everything in between, let your points open the door to an unforgettable European trip!
