Want a European vacation this weekend without the jet lag? On Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., 26 countries that are part of the European Union will open their embassy doors to celebrate the EU Open House. The best part? You won't need a passport to munch on fine cheese and pastries for lunch at the Embassy of France, listen to traditional music at the Embassy of the Czech Republic or tour gardens at the British Embassy. 202-862-9500 or http://www.europe-in-dc.com. Most activities are free, $25 for a three-course lunch at the French Embassy.

-- Amy Orndorff (May 8, 2009)

Visit www.passportdc.org and www.europe-in-dc.com for last-minute schedule changes and cancellations. Entrance to embassies and shuttle service is free. Some embassies will have food and other items for sale.

For security reasons, bring a photo ID. Avoid bringing large bags and backpacks because embassies will conduct security inspections. Be aware that some embassies prohibit photography. Capacity at some embassies is limited; be patient.

Some activities require reservations. Check before you go.

Transportation:

Parking is limited. Free shuttles run from the following Metro stations to embassies:

European Union Open House, Saturday (Tour European embassies):

Buses start at 9:30 and go until 3.

Cleveland Park route:
Buses leave from the east side Connecticut Avenue exit of Cleveland Park Metro to: Austria, Slovakia, Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland

Dupont Circle route:
Buses leave from the Q Street exit of Dupont Circle Metro to: Netherlands, Slovenia, Italy, Denmark, United Kingdom, Finland, Belgium, Malta

Farragut North route:
Buses leave from the L Street exit of Farragut North to: Delegation of the European Commission, Germany, France, Sweden, Spain