travel tips europe

• Switzerland
• The Netherlands
• National Parks
• Affording Travel
• Photography
• Responsible Travel
• Worldschool
• Wanderlust Guides
• Travel Planning
• Work with Us

Europe , Travel

How to travel europe like a pro: 50 europe travel tips you need to know before you go.

Before you go to leave, be sure to read these 50 essential tips for traveling to Europe that you help you travel Europe like a pro!

Europe travel tips: 50 things you should know before going to europe.

Europe is my favorite place to travel. Despite having traveled extensively around the world, it’s still the place I return to again and again. We travel Europe at least once a year, and even lived there for an entire year!

But you don’t have to stay for an entire year to get a feel for this amazing continent. Even just one week in Europe  at any of these incredible destinations is enough to make you fall in love!

There are so many incredible places to go in Europe with so many different countries and cultures to explore without actually traveling very far! Traveling through Europe can seem a little overwhelming if you’ve never been before, so I wanted to share a few things you should know before going to Europe. This will make your first visit much more enjoyable.

If you’re traveling with kids, be sure to read these 10 tips for taking kids to Europe. 

1. Budget for Your Trip

Before you even purchase tickets to Europe, sit down, like a responsible adult, and plan a budget for your trip to Europe. Make sure it’s realistic and make sure it’s something that you can afford right now. While I love to rack up credit card points by using them on travel, it’s important to be reasonable. The good news is that Europe can be done fairly inexpensively, in fact, we actually spent less money traveling Europe for a year than we did staying home!

How much does it cost to travel Europe?

That answer really depends on how many people are in your party, what style of travel you like, and how budget you’re willing to go. You can travel Europe cheap if you’re smart about it, but I would plan on $1,000/person for each week just to be safe.

The cheapest way to explore Europe is to plan ahead and shop around for the best deals on accommodation, transportation, and airfare because there are tons of Europe travel deals out there on the internet! If you want to know how to travel Europe cheap, you can read about how we actually spend less money living there for a year than we did at home. 

Be sure to read my guide to planning financially for a vacation,   which includes a Europe travel budget calculator so that you can find out just how much your trip will cost.

2. Save for Your Trip

Now that you have your budget set in place for visiting Europe you can start saving! These are some easy ways that I save money for travel.  You don’t need to turn over your whole paycheck, but you’ll need to make saving for travel a priority so you don’t go into crazy debt to be able to afford it. Credit cards definitely have their place and can be useful for earning points, but be sure you pay it off each month! If you can’t afford to do so, maybe don’t spend it. This is why having a travel fund is so important. When those travel deals pop up you’ll be ready to jump with your special savings!

3. Check Europe Travel Visa Requirements

Americans traveling to Europe won’t need a Visa to travel to most countries on the continent. Europe travel visas are a little complicated, but you can learn more about them here.   If you’re looking to stay in Europe for more than 90 days, read this.

Beginning in 2023, US citizens and citizens of other previously non-visa countries coming to the EU will now need a ETIAS Visa. Read here for what that means for you.

4. Buy Flights Early

You can usually get the best deals to Europe by booking early. Start keeping an eye out for cheap flights as early as possible. Read my guide to finding cheap flights to be sure you’re getting the best deals!

5. Read Books About your Destinations

Once you decide where you’re going in Europe, find books to read about it. I don’t mean guide books, although those can be great. I love these ones. I mean books, both fiction and nonfiction, that tell a story set in Europe. It can make your trip so much more meaningful when you have some connections.

You can read this awesome list of 100+ books organized by continent that will inspire you to travel.

6. Pack Light

Pack light, especially if you’ll be traveling around Europe and taking public transportation. There’s nothing more frustrating than trying to haul heavy luggage around on trains! I promise!

Make a packing list, then take less than you think you’ll need. If you’re going to Europe for more than one week, pack for one week, then plan on washing and/or re-wearing what you’ve brought. There’s nothing shameful about washing your laundry in a tub or sink or even spending some time with the locals at the laundromat! It could be an adventure!

If you want to wash your own clothes more efficiently, consider getting one of these awesome laundry wash bags that make laundry day way easier and more fun!

7. Bring Melatonin to Beat Jetlag

Consult your doctor before taking any medication. I am not a doctor, but this is what works for me. I buy the gummy melatonin (because I have kids) and take it with me every time I travel. Sleeping in a new bed is hard enough, but add a 6 hour time difference once you’re in Europe and it’s all over! When you’re ready for bed, take about 3-10 mg of melatonin which will help you shift your internal clock. Melatonin is an over the counter sleep aid and can be purchased at any drug store or grocery store. I really like this one because it tastes delicious and is 5mg (a good amount for adults) and this one for kids or smaller people since it’s only 2.5 mg (which is hard to find in stores).

Be sure to pull down the shades and make it as dark as possible. I like to use this amazing eye mask to achieve complete darkness! I love that it leaves space for your eyelashes, which is a huge selling point for me! And yes, it does look like a bra for your eyes! 

8. Don’t Try to See it All!

This is probably one of my best Europe travel tips! T raveling to Europe for the first time will be so exciting and you’re going to want to see as much as you can.  Europe is filled with so many bucket list destinations screaming to be visited! Unless you’re staying in Europe for a year, don’t try to see it all in one trip! Europe is huge and each country is so different. Just one city could honestly keep you busy for a lifetime!

Even though it’s so easy to travel around Europe, don’t spend all of your time on a train, plane or car! Plus, just more reasons to come back right?! I would stick to 2-3 cities in one visit depending on the length of your trip. The best way to travel Europe is slowly! Take your time, you can always come back.

If you only have one week, these 20 One-Week Europe Trip Itinerary Ideas will help you decide which cities to visit.

9. Book Your Accommodations as Early as Possible

Once you know where you’re going in Europe you can book your accommodation. The sooner you book your accommodation in Europe the better! You’ll have more options and lower prices.

We like to use this website to easily search for our desired accommodations. I like it because you can enter specific parameters like hotels with pools, good for kids, a certain number of beds, etc. 

Also, consider using VRBO instead of staying in a hotel. It can significantly increase your savings! Staying in a VRBO also allows you to see your destination as the locals do. 

10. Learn How to Travel Around Europe

Before arriving in any city, be sure to do some research and learn how to get around using public transportation or a rental car. Each city has its own rules that can be complicated to say the least. Using public transportation in a foreign country can be a great way to experience cities like a local but can also be intimidating. Be sure to do your research ahead of time so you know how to use each public transportation system. If you’re going to London, read my guide to getting around London here and my guide to train travel in Italy here . 

11. Travel Europe by Train

I think the train is the best way to travel Europe!

Train travel in Europe is an efficient and inexpensive way to get around within the countries and between them. You may want to consider getting a Rail Pass train tickets .  When you travel Europe by train, be sure you know the rules for each country.

If you’re going to Italy, read about how to use the train system in Italy here.

12. Get an International Drivers License

Be careful when renting cars in Europe that you check to see if an international drivers license is required. Obtaining one is quick and easy. You can make an appointment at any AAA. You’ll need 2 pictures of yourself and your drivers’ license. Read this to learn more.

13. Call Your Credit Card Company

Before leaving for your trip to Europe, call your bank and/or credit card company and tell then where and when you’re traveling. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve had my card put on hold from forgetting to do this!14 . Take a Credit Card, Debit Card, and Cash

In Europe they have this thing called “Chip and Pin” that the US hasn’t seemed to catch onto for some reason. Because of this, your credit card might not work sometimes, so be sure you have a debit card and/or cash on hand.

15 . Have Cash with You

I recommend using an ATM to withdrawal the local currency as it will use your bank’s exchange rate, which will most likely be lower than the foreign transaction fees of the currency exchange booths at the airport.

You’ll also want to have cash as some places may not accept cards. This is especially true for many gelaterias in Europe! You want to be sure to have cash for those important things like gelato!!! Some small towns in Europe may not even accept cards at restaurants, so you’ll want to have a decent chunk of cash hidden away.

16. Know About the Currency of Each Country

When I went to Europe as a little girl, before the EU was formed, every country had a different currency. It was really fun to collect the coins, but a nightmare when you were road tripping through Europe!

Now, most countries in Europe use the Euro, but some countries still use their own currency. Here is a list of countries who use the Euro:

• Netherlands

All other European countries that don’t use the Euro use a local currency. You can see a complete list here. 

17. Leave the Majority of Your Cash in the Hotel

While it’s important to have cash available during your trip to Europe, you don’t want to be carrying around hundreds of Euros/Pounds/Franks/etc. every day. Leave the majority of your cash in your hotel room or Airbnb. Be sure to put it away so it’s not visible.

18. Wear Your Cash

I like to carry cash close to me in one of these carriers or in my favorite travel accessory ever… a fanny pack (bum bag for non-Americans). How did I ever live from age 10-30 without one of these?! Why did I stop wearing them? They’re literally the best invention!

I own several, including this beautiful one from Fawn Design , but I love these ones as well, and they come in 12 different colors. They are a perfect size to put your phone and wallet in. I even have this larger fanny pack that actually holds my Sony camera! I like it because you can turn it into a purse if you feel so inclined, but honestly, why would you want to?! Everyone get on the fanny pack train with me ok?! Please!

19. Spend Your Coins

I’m not used to pulling out coins to pay for things in the US unless I’m buying gum! But in Europe you’ll be getting a lot of 2 Euro coins that add up quickly. Be sure you spend your coins as well as your cash. Also, if you’re exchanging any leftover currency at the airport before you go home, they do not accept coins! I usually give my kids all my leftover coins to go to town at the airport gift shops!

20. Know How to Stay Safe

This is probably one of the most important travel tips for Europe.

Europe is pretty safe in general. But just like anywhere in the world, it is best to be on your guard and be away of risks and threats around you. Be especially careful in highly touristy areas where there are large crowds in small spaces. I highly recommend wearing a fanny pack instead of a backpack. And if you have a backpack, don’t keep your wallet in the front pocket where it’s accessible to pickpockets.

Don’t walk alone at night down dark alleys. Basically, take the same types of precautions that you’d take at home.

Also beware of scammers asking for you to sign a petition, mothers with children asking you for money, or people posing as train company employees offering to help you buy tickets. These are pretty well-known scams around Europe, so just keep an eye out and know what you’re up against.

21. Travel Insurance Europe

It’s always a good idea to have travel insurance when you travel to Europe. I think the best travel insurance for Europe is World Nomads. They are a reputable company that has been around for a long time. You can check their rates here.  I also really like Allianz    because kids are free! You can check their rates here. 

22. Register with the State Department

For safety reasons, it’s a good idea to register your location and dates with the State Department.  Especially if you’re travelling alone in Europe. It’s easy and only takes a few minutes. If anything were to happen, the Embassy would know to find and help you! You’ll see why I feel so strongly about this in my next tip…

23. Always Carry Your Passport

I feel like this is a highly debated topic, but I’m just giving you my personal opinion. We keep our passports with us at all times in Europe. We were in Paris on the day of the attacks a few years ago. If anything had happened to us it would have been essential for us to have our passports, especially if we couldn’t get back to our Airbnb. You just never know what could happen and it’s always better to be prepared for anything.

24. Book Attraction Tickets in Advance

With travel becoming more and more popular and overtourism becoming a real problem, popular attractions like the Eiffel Tower, Vatican, London Eye, and Colosseum require advanced booking or you risk not being able to visit them. This happened to us on one of our visits to Paris with the kids and it was a total bummer. You can book almost any attraction in Europe here , including skip-the-line tours.

25. Don’t Over-Plan

While it’s important to plan out your trip, especially for major attractions, be sure to leave some unscheduled time in your European itinerary for downtime and also for wandering aimlessly, which is one of my very favorite European vacation pastimes!

26. Get Off the Beaten Path

Definitely visit those top sites that you’ve been dreaming of seeing (there’s really no comparison to the Eiffel Tower), but don’t be afraid to get off the beaten path a bit and explore some alternative destinations and sites around Europe.  With over 15 million tourists each year, Europe can get crowded, especially during peak season. Don’t be afraid to leave the tourists’ path and try something new and different.

27. Stay Connected Abroad

I don’t know about you, but I literally cannot live without my phone. It’s not because I’m addicted to technology (ok maybe I am) But seriously, maps, UBER, etc…so hard to live without those things, especially when traveling! Stay connected by either getting a local SIM Card (most airports will have kiosks where you can rent or buy one, or you can just buy one online here ) or use a Portable WiFi device like Skyroam.

Also use Express VPN. Learn more about why you need a VPN here. 

28. Learn a few words of the local language

Knowing just a few words in the local language can be hugely helpful. Just knowing how to say please, thank you, yes, no, and excuse me can be crucial. Lucky for us language-lacking Americans, most people in Europe’s city centers will speak passing English and be able to understand what you’re saying at least. The farther out from the cities you get, the more difficult this becomes. You’ll also want to be sure you have the Google Translate app installed on your phone with the languages of the European countries you’re traveling to. 

29. Wake Up Early

This may seem basic, but it’s probably one of my best Europe travel tips! Make use of those early morning hours and wander the streets before the rest of the tourists descend. This is especially true for Venice, Paris, and Rome, which can be magical places in the morning light. It’s the only time you’ll be able to experience these cities without the hoards.

I like to wake up around 5:30 or 6 and walk out the door right around the time the sun comes up, which will vary depending on the season you visit. Then we usually have an early lunch and go back to our Airbnb or hotel for a rest during the hottest and busiest hours of the day so we can recharge, and go out again around 3 or 4 for more exploring. Then we have dinner after the sun goes down to take advantage of all the daylight hours.

30. Shop at the Grocery Stores

One of my favorite things to do when visiting Europe is to shop at the grocery stores! I know it seems really silly, and non-vacation-like, but I get pretty sick of eating out and I love to discover the different products in foreign countries.

If you visit Paris, Monoprix is my favorite store. In London, I love Marks & Spencer. At these stores, you can also usually find premade salads, sandwiches, and pre-cut and packaged fruits and vegetables which make for really convenient picnic food or just a meal on the go. It’s also a great way to save money while traveling in Europe.

Pay attention to the opening hours because some shops close in the afternoon for lunch and a nap!

31. Shop at the Markets

Be sure to spend some time shopping at the local markets around Europe. You never know what you’ll find. Most markets are not just a touristy thing to do, but places that locals come to get their weekly or daily groceries. Try something you’ve never tried before. You never know what you might fall in love with. Some of my favorite European foods are ones that I’ve tried at a market. Check out the best European markets here.

32. Know How to Find Authentic Restaurants

When you’re looking for a great authentic and affordable place to eat in Europe, get AWAY from the main tourist attractions at least several blocks before considering anything.

Avoid places with pictures of food and a million things on the menu and no prices. Good restaurants will have only a small selection of food and no pictures!

Look for locals! If you don’t see a lot of tourists eating there, but it’s packed with locals, then you’re good!

33. Be Aware of the Coperto

Be aware of the coperto , which is basically a charge for sitting down to eat. Some people in Venice have recently been scammed and charged several hundred dollars for the coperto! It’s rare, but just beware and don’t be afraid to ask. Most menus will have the coperto price listed in really small print somewhere.

When eating out in Europe you may have to be a little more forthright with your waiter. Only in America do the waitstaff check on you every 5 minutes! Since tipping is not as expected in Europe as it is in the US so you won’t receive the level of butt-kissing that you may be used to. Don’t be afraid to signal them for attention if you need something and you’ll probably need to ask for the check when you’re done.

If you’re visiting a pub in the UK, you’ll need to order your food at the bar, then find a seat. We’ve learned these lessons the hard and embarrassing way, so please take my advice!

34. Know About Tipping in Europe

Tipping is pretty expected in Europe, but not the 15-20% like in the US. It’s hard for me to let this one go, but the customary tip is usually the small change if you’re paying cash. I’ll be honest I still leave a pretty good tip, especially if I had a great waiter who was patient with me and walked me through the menu and made suggestions. If you can afford it, I think it would make someone’s day to give a good tip, especially if they’re deserving, however, it’s not required or expected.

If you’re paying for dinner with a card, you’ll most likely need to bring cash for a tip! The card machines in most restaurants in Europe do not allow for you to leave a tip on your card.

Also, when paying with a card, your waiter will bring the card machine to the table. This is something I wish they’d do in the US as well. I don’t like the idea of someone walking off with my card!

35. It’s OK to Drink the Water

Most of the water in Europe is safe to drink from the tap. In most restaurants, you will not be given tap water without asking for it, especially if you’re American, but don’t be afraid to ask!

If you’re skeptical about drinking the tap water you can always order bottled water or use a filtered water bottle or life straw.

36. Eat at McDonald’s

I know…this seems like the most ridiculous bad-tourist thing to do! But eating at McDonald’s in Europe is a really fun experience. Every country has its own spin on the fast food chain. France has Croque Monsieur, Italy has mozzarella sticks, etc. Plus, my kids tell me that the toys in a Happy Meals are better in Europe…in case you were wondering!

37. Take a Bus Tour

Take a bus tour. Taking the HOHO bus (hop on hop off) on your first day in a new city can be really helpful. It allows you to get a good overview of the major European cities quickly so you’ll be prepared to take it on by foot!

38. Take an UBER Tour

Many cities in Europe offer UBER tours where you can book a driver for an hour and they will take you around the city. It’s great to have a local who drives the city for a living taking you to all their favorite spots. We did this in Rome and it was one of our favorite experiences!

39. Take Free Walking Tours

Many European cities offer free walking tours, which can be a great way to learn about a city. We like to use Guru Walk . Be sure to tip your guide well since your tour was free!

40. Rent a Bike

Renting a bike is a great way to see areas of Europe. I love biking in Paris especially. You can also book bike tours that provide a guide.

41. Book Airbnb Experiences

In an effort to be a more sustainable traveler, we’ve started doing more and more Airbnb Experiences that benefit the locals rather than larger tour companies.  If you’re looking for a really authentic experience with a local, book a tour or class through Airbnb. We have done cooking classes, food tours, and photography tours through Airbnb and they’ve all been great! It’s a great way to connect with a local and really enrich your trip.

42. Visit Museums

No one does museums better than Europe! Maybe because there is so much history there, they seem to be masters at preserving and displaying artifacts and also making it really fun and educational at the same time.

Take advantage of the many museums in Europe. If you’re traveling to Europe with kids, they will especially benefit from this as they are free in most museums. Don’t be afraid to try the smaller lesser-known museums, as well, as these can be real hidden gems. Check out the awesome museums just in London here.

43. Attend Theater or Concerts

Take advantage of all the culture and talent in Europe. It can really enrich your experience to see a show or a concert. We love seeing shows in the west end in London, ballets in Paris, operas in Vienna, and orchestra concerts in Venice!

44. Take Advantage of Free Activities and Sites

Keep an eye out for free things to do in Europe. Many of the sites are free and looking for activities that don’t cost you a thing can help you branch out and try new things!

45. Know How to Use the Restrooms

Many European bathrooms will charge you to use them. Some cities, like Paris, have little toilet huts (I don’t know what else to call them) in the city center that require some coins to enter. Other bathrooms will have turnstiles to enter the bathrooms, others will have a bathroom attendant who collects your money and keeps the bathroom tidy.

There are all sorts of restroom situations in Europe, so just be prepared for anything and always have coins on you. I’d say the average bathroom fee is 50 Euro cents.

46. Keep a Travel Journal

When I was little and taking my first trip to Europe, my grandma made me keep a travel journal. I hated it! But now, of course, I look back on that journal and love reading it! Keep a small, simple journal with you and write about each day. I love this travel journal because it has writing prompts included.

47. Talk to the Locals

The best way to get to know a destination is to get to know its people. Don’t be afraid to talk with the locals. Learn their stories. They have probably lived in the area for a long time and can tell you the best places to eat and spend time. We’ve made some lifelong friends that we still keep in touch with this way.

48. Be a Responsible Tourist

Overtourism is becoming a real problem in Europe. With so many tourists visiting each year, cities are getting more and more crowded and more and more polluted. When you travel to Europe, be responsible. Remember that you are a guest in another country. Please behave as if you were visiting a distant relative. Don’t litter, don’t be too loud or obnoxious, and respect their rules.

Also, be mindful of the environment. Limit plastic usage by bringing a reusable water bottle from home and avoiding plastic straws. You can learn more about sustainable travel here. 

49. Volunteer

If you find an opportunity to volunteer when you travel through Europe, this can be a great way to make an impact and a memorable way to spend your trip. Check out JustServe.org for volunteer opportunities around the globe.

50. Expect Problems and Roll with the Punches

Expect problems on your first trip to Europe. It’s only natural that not everything will go to plan. For as many times as I’ve been to Europe, I have yet to have one trip go smoothly. One time I almost got robbed, another time a Taxi driver drove off with ALL my bags, once my husband missed a train while I had 4 little kids and all the luggage.

Traveling is just like life. There will always be hiccups along the way, but this makes travel exciting and memorable! The hiccups are all part of the experience. The trick is to enjoy the ride and make the most of any situation. Don’t let the setbacks ruin your trip.

BONUS 51. Have Fun!

I hope this one is a given. It’s nearly impossible not to have fun while traveling in Europe. Now that you’re armed with all these tips, I hope you’re ready to book your flights!

Do you have any other tips for visiting Europe? I’d love to hear them! You can get in touch with me via Instagram of Facebook.

Practical Tips for Booking your Trip

Book Your Flight s and Car Find a budget airlines by using  Skyscanner . This is my favorite way to search for flights because they crawl websites and airlines around the globe, so you always know you’re getting the best deal. Learn more tips for finding the best flight deals here. For cars, I like to use Rental Cars because they have good filters and its easy to search for multiple companies.

Book Your Accommodation My preferred way to stay around the world is VRBO . I find it usually gives you a unique local experience in any destination. If you want to stay in a hotel, use  Booking , as it consistently gives the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels. I use them both all the time.

Always Get Travel Insurance Travel insurance protects you and your family against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s peace of mind in case anything goes wrong. I never travel without it. I’ve been using World Nomads for the last few years and love how easy it is to use. I have also used Allianz . Compare rates to see which is best for the coverage you need.

Looking for ways to save money on travel? Check out my  resource page  for the companies I use for traveling! I share everything I use to save me time and money.

Wanderlust Crew

100+ Europe Travel Tips for First Timers & Must-Knows Before You Go

Last Updated: November 6, 2023

*FYI - this post may contain affiliate links, which means we earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase from them. Also, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Check out our Privacy Policy and Disclosure. for more info.

Headed to Europe for the first time and trying not to cry?

I get it. You’re probably a hot mess of emotion right now. Between the excitement of ticking off bucket list moments and the anxiety of getting pickpocketed or (possibly worse) getting side-eyed by cool European youths, there’s a lot of potential for stress carbs and sheer overwhelm.

Don’t worry though – I have all the Europe tips you need in this post to keep those first time jitters at bay, and ensure you’re fully prepared for your big European adventure.

So, what are some must-knows before you travel to Europe for the first time? Read on for a full of my best Europe travel tips, after over a decade of travelling around/living on this gorgeous and delicious continent.

NOTE: As an aggressively apologetic Canadian, I must first clarify that these European travel tips are written from a North American perspective, and there are some culture shocks that (while seemingly basic) can really confuse a 1st time visitor, so… yes, this is just me covering all the bases. Enjoy!

Save this list of Europe Travel Tips for Later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

Europe Travel Planning Tips

Let’s start with some planning-related Europe tips to help you with flights, booking hotels in Europe, choosing dates, the best times to visit Europe, etc. to get you from armchair travel to your real-life dream trip.

Steal my step by step guide to planning a trip to Europe from scratch

This post is full of random Europe travel tips, but if you are looking more for step by step guidance, be sure to check out my step by step guide to planning a Europe trip.

Also be sure to check out my free Europe trip planner book , as well as my free International Travel Checklist for a list of things to do before you travel abroad.

Avoid peak travel times

If you have the luxury of flexibility, I’d avoid visiting Europe between mid-June to the end of August.

Simply put, this is when prices and crowds are at their highest, and (depending on where you go) temperatures during this season can reach a point of salty, sweaty discomfort.

Instead, consider going in the Spring , Fall or Winter!

Avoid European holidays

In addition to avoiding North American holiday periods, be sure to also consider popular European school holidays too.

Generally, speaking longer European school holidays will take place during Easter/Christmas, a very popular time for European families to travel around the continent too.

Yes, Europeans can be avid tourists too. Don’t forget that!

Go for Christmas markets!

Okay, this may be a direct contradiction to what I said above, but one exception I’d make for “peak season travel” in Europe is going to Christmas markets.

This is one of the most magical times to visit Europe, and if you plan your visit for earlier in the season (late November, rather than close to Christmas), you’ll usually be able to avoid the bulk of the crowds.

Here are my top must-knows for visiting Christmas markets in Europe if you want to learn more.

Consider getting a travel credit card

I’m going to level with you: no matter how you plan it, even if you stay in hostels and subsist solely on hummus and bread scraps, you will end up spending a lot of money on your Europe trip.

… so you might as well try to reap as many rewards from it as possible!

Getting a travel rewards credit card before booking all your hotels and flights is one of my favourite underrated Europe travel tips.

There’s a million options out there, so I’ll leave the research/choice up to you, but just make sure you’re booking everything on a card that maximizes the amount of benefits you get.

For me personally, I have the Amex Platinum , which yes has a really high fee but at least for the first year it’s super worth it because you get travel credits, travel insurance, lounge access, and most importantly, enough bonus sign-up points to get you a roundtrip flight to Europe from North America! It’s not for everyone, but definitely worth looking into.

Bonus sneaky point hoarding tip: Travelling with friends? Especially if they don’t collect points of their own, offer to book for everyone, then have them pay you back. Whee – free points without needing to spend all the money!

Get a Wise card

If you’re not interested in getting a travel credit card, a handy and free alternative I can highly recommend is a Wise card.

Having a Wise card allows you to “send and spend money around the world at the real exchange rate”, avoiding hidden fees in the process.

It is SO handy for travel, because you can use it for over 150 currencies around the world, and you even get 2 free ATM withdrawals per month with it overseas.

And because your card is linked to your Wise account, you can simply load it up with a minimal amount of money so you don’t have to risk your normal credit/debit cards while walking around.

You can use my referral link here to transfer your first $500 fee-free.

NOTE: I’ve also had a good experience with Revolut when I lived in Germany, but they don’t offer services for Canadians so I can no longer use them.

Focus on one or two countries for shorter trips

Unless you have a lot of time to work with, I would recommend getting to know one or two countries well rather than trying to visit too many countries in one go just for the sake of checking them off your list.

While travelling between European countries can be affordable and quick, hopping around too much can be a sure recipe for burnout and time lost commuting.

Plus, the more you see of one country, the more you’re able to get more off-the-beaten path and find spots you hadn’t heard of before!

Check out my list of 1 week itineraries for Europe if you need inspiration.

Learn all about the Schengen Area

An important must-know for all first time visitors to Europe is that border-free travel doesn’t exist across the continent (as is commonly believed).

Rather, border-free travel apples only between countries in the Schengen Area, this group of 27 countries (accurate as of 2023):

• Liechtenstein
• The Netherlands
• Switzerland 

When crossing borders outside of these countries, you will need to clear passport control as normal.

Understanding this distinction will help you plan how long you can stay in different countries, as well as Europe in general, and give you some insight into logistics like when you’ll need to clear passport control, and which visas you might need for where.

Use your understanding of the Schengen Zone to legally stay in Europe longer

For most tourists, the maximum amount of time you can spend in the Schengen Zone is 90 days out of 180 days .

Simply put, if by the time you leave, you can look back on the past 180 days and say you stayed less than 90 days total, you’re good.

BUT if you want to stay in Europe for longer than that amount of time, you can utilize your Schengen Area understanding to stay longer, simply by including travel to non-Schengen countries.

For example: Let’s say you can only spend 90 days in the Schengen Zone, but you’re allowed to spend 180 total in the UK. You can easily make your European trip longer than 90 days by adding time in the UK, Ireland, Bulgaria, Romania or any other non-Schengen country.

Consider more off-the-beaten path destinations

Another benefit of visiting non-Schengen countries is they’re often lesser visited, and filled with some truly amazing hidden gems.

For example, I’m a HUGE fan of Bulgaria. (Here are some of the coolest things to do in Bulgaria that you probably haven’t heard of.)

While I totally understand the desire to see the most popular and best-known destinations on your trip, sometimes visiting these lesser known spots can bring amazing surprises that end up being the highlight of your vacation!

Of course, there’s a middle ground too – you can easily get the ‘best of both worlds’ by combining a hugely popular destination with some side trips to other lesser known places in the same country. These posts might help with that:

• The Best Places to Visit in England (Besides London)
• The Best Places to Visit in France (Besides Paris)

Offset pricey destinations with more budget-friendly ones

If you’re hoping to visit Europe on a budget, but still have some pricier destinations on your bucket list (e.g. Switzerland, Norway, Sweden, Iceland, UK, Germany, etc.), then a great way to cut costs is to round out your itinerary with more affordable stops (e.g. Bulgaria, Romania, Poland, Montenegro, Lithuania, etc.)

This of course makes more sense on longer trips where you’ll be covering a lot of ground, but just remember than some European destinations are MUCH rougher on the budget than others, so mix it up if you’re looking to give your wallet a break.

Alternate between busy and chill destinations

On a similar note, you should make sure your Europe trip itinerary also includes a mix of busy and relaxed places.

One of the biggest mistakes I made during my first backpacking trip was I crammed SO many huge cities into my itinerary, one after another.

But when your itinerary is nothing but European heavyweights like Paris, London, Amsterdam, Rome and Florence… yikes, you’ll be sightseeing your eyeballs off daily with zero chance for breaks.

So, here’s a very important Europe travel tip when planning your itinerary: try to space out the “big” cities with chiller destinations, maybe nature or beach breaks so you have time to rest up before sightseeing like the Energizer bunny once more.

Learn the tricks to getting cheap flights TO Europe

Not sure how to get the best flight deals for your big Europe trip? Be sure to check out my guide on how to get the cheapest flights to Europe .

I promise it’ll save you hundreds of dollars, if not more.

Take advantage of free stopovers

Certain airlines have a free stopover program where you can have a long layover for no extra cost, meaning you get two destinations for the price of one plane ticket!

Here are some Europe-based airlines that offer this:

• IcelandAir: Free stopovers in Reykjavik for 1-7 days
• Iberia: Free stopovers in Madrid for 1-6 nights
• TAP Portugal: Free stopovers in Lisbon and Porto for 1-5 nights

Steal my step by step process for finding the best hotels

If you’re overwhelmed by the prospect of booking all your own places to stay, I have just the resource for you.

Here’s how to find the best accommodation in Europe every time.

Book hotels far in advance

And if you don’t have time to check out my whole step by step process, then here’s the #1 piece of Europe accommodation wisdom I can give you: book your hotels as soon as possible.

In many of Europe’s most popular destinations, good value accommodation books out quickly, so your biggest defense against outrageous prices and poor quality hotels is booking early.

Even if you’re not going in peak season, you never know when an unexpected event (e.g. a big concert, sports game or conference) will send hotel prices soaring, so the sooner you book, the better.

I know that committing to a hotel early can feel scary, but if you use  Booking.com , you can find hundreds of hotels that offer free reservations and free cancellations up until a certain point.

I’ll often hop on Booking.com to make a placeholder / “just in case” reservation in the early stages of my planning just to ensure I have a Plan B in case prices skyrocket.

The European hotel star system is different to North America

I grew up with a North American hotel system where 5* meant opulent luxury and 1* meant run for the hills, unless you want to lose your kidneys.

The star ratings in Europe are a bit different. Instead of stars coinciding to quality on a scale of 1-5, the stars actually correspond to a checklist of amenities/requirements.

SO, you can get some amazing 2* properties that are simply smaller and don’t really have things like a spa or pool, while also finding crappy 4 or 5* properties that have that rating just because they’re big and have amenities like fitness centers and valets (i.e. many chains).

Learn more about the criteria for star ratings here.

Avoid airport hotels unless flying in or out

Tempted by a cheap hotel deal near the airport? Run.

Unless you are flying into your destination late and need a place to crash or are flying out early in the morning, do NOT book a stay at any airport hotels.

With Europe travel, you want to ideally be close to the sights or at least in a scenic neighbourhood, not next to a motorway. Adding in the time and cost of commuting to/from the city centre, it’s rarely worth it so keep that in mind the next time you’re tempted by the siren’s call of an airport Ibis.

Learn the options for free accommodation in Europe

Hoping to find places to stay for free in Europe? There are indeed options for that!

Here are a few ways you can potentially find accommodation for free:

• Couchsurfing:   Crashing with someone within a community of travellers where people offer to host each other in their homes free of charge
• House Swap: Trading homes with someone (like in The Holiday). Many sites facilitate these exchanges, including  HomeExchange  and  Kindred
• House and Pet Sitting:  Looking after someone’s house/pets in exchange for free accommodation. One of the most popular platforms for this is  Trusted Housesitters
• Workaway:  Volunteering your time/services in exchange for accommodation

Don’t forget travel insurance

I personally believe that travel insurance is a must for every trip. Trust me, the peace of mind is worth the cost!

Click here to check rates with WorldNomads.

Make sure you’ll have Internet access

This tip goes without saying, but if you’re old school and prefer to travel without Internet, don’t.

Really, as romantic as it is to disconnect during your travels, having an Internet plan for your phone is crucial. It allows you to navigate with Google Maps, use translation apps, do research on the go, etc.

Without it, your trip will be infinitely harder. No joke – some places these days even require you to have data to scan menus!

Luckily, roaming within the EU is free, and it’s wayyyy cheaper than what we have in Canada.

Download helpful apps before you go

On that note, once you have a data plan set up, you can take advantage of all the helpful apps for Europe travel available.

Some of my favourites include…

• Omio : Great for comparing and booking transport options (including buses, trains, and flights) from Point A to Point B.
• Google Translate : A must for translating signs and menus if you are in a country where English isn’t the main language
• Splitwise : Helpful for tracking expenses split between friends, great for minimizing awkwardness when dealing with trip finances
• Too Good to Go : Perfect for buying discounted meals at the end of the day to save food from going to waste

Download TripIt to keep track of all your travel bookings

Speaking of helpful Europe travel apps, another one I can recommend is TripIt.

This app works like magic to organize your hotel bookings, flights, tickets and all in one place… the best thing is, it does it automatically through scanning your inbox for confirmation emails.

If you’re planning a long trip with multiple stops, hotels, modes of transport, etc. to worry about, then TripIt is a great tool for organizing everything in one neat place.

Ensure you have proof of onward travel

“Proof of onward travel”  is a very important consideration that many first-time travellers forget about.

In sum, it’s proof that you’re leaving your destination before your visa or allowance expires.

Usually this proof is provided in the form of a ticket back home, or a ticket elsewhere to prove that you’ll be leaving at some point.

A lot of people dismiss this requirement as a myth, but trust me: it’s not.

I was once almost barred from boarding a flight to Germany because my return flight was after the 90 day Schengen Zone allowance, and I didn’t have proof I would be leaving the Schengen Zone before the 90 days was over. I intended to spend some time out of the Schengen Zone to ensure I never overstayed, but they demanded proof… so yes, they do check!

Want to learn more?  I have a full article if you want to read more about  proof of onward travel  and my experience lawyer-ing myself out of that (very awkward) situation.

Steal my pre-made itineraries

Lastly Europe travel planning tip: I know that making itineraries can be exhausting, but luckily there are Type A laptop gremlins like me who adore doing it.

So, here are some itineraries for you to steal in case you need them:

• My 1.5 month Western Europe backpacking itinerary
• My 40+ one week in Europe itineraries

Europe Travel Tips for Transport & Getting Around

Getting around Europe can be really daunting for a first-time visitor, so here are all my best Europe tips related to transport and getting from one place to another.

Public transport is abundant and amazing

Don’t be afraid of using it!

I’m always shocked when I hear travellers who think that they’ll need to rent a car for their Europe trip.

Oftentimes, you really won’t need to, especially if you’re mainly visiting big cities.

On that note…

Avoid renting a car

Unless you are doing a trip that focuses heavily on natural sights or smaller remote villages, odds are you won’t need a car.

Public transport (as I mentioned above) is a solid option, and involves a fraction of the stress often unleashed by car rentals.

… But beware of hidden costs if you do rent a car

When it comes to car rentals in Europe, often the first price you see isn’t indicative of what you’ll have to pay in the end.

Some hidden/additional costs might include…

• Age or nationality based surcharges
• Additional driver fees
• Multiple country fees
• Extra miles
• Extra insurance
• One way fees
• Tolls/vignettes

So if you still want to rent a car, here is a post to help you figure out how much renting a car in Europe really costs .

Renting a car? You might need a vignette 

One of the pains of car rentals is the additional fees. In many European countries, you need to pay for a vignette (a sticker you put on your car) to use their motorways.

In Switzerland for instance, this costs 40 francs… and yes, you need to make sure you have the vignette BEFORE you drive into the country, as there are automatic scanners at the border that can pick up your details and send you a ticket later (which we learned the hard way).

Do a lot of research before committing to a Eurail pass 

Many first time visitors to Europe think of a rail pass as the cheapest option, but very often, booking your train tickets in advance will work out to be cheaper than a Eurail pass, especially if you aren’t taking that many trains and don’t need full flexibility (i.e. you are okay to book the trains advance).

Eurail passes can be great value, but not always. If you need help figuring out whether they’d make sense for you, read my full Eurail review for more details.

Look into scenic European train rides

I’ve already made my allegiance to European public transport pretty clear, but one of the main reasons is simply how beautiful it can be.

Sure, trains aren’t always the cheapest way to to travel Europe , but they’re often the most scenic and beautiful.

So if you’re into the idea of travel as an experience, then be sure to read my post on the best scenic train rides in Europe , and the best scenic train rides in Switzerland .

Familiarize yourself with Europe’s most famous budget airlines 

One of the cheapest ways to get around Europe is hopping around on budget airlines… where sometimes an international flight is cheaper than a 6 pack of nuggets.

Of course, the epic prices come with their own set of drawbacks, usually in terms of the flight experience, customer support, and additional add-ons (which always come at an extra fee).

You can learn more specifics about Europe’s top budget airlines through my reviews here:

• Honest RyanAir Review
• Honest easyJet Review
• Honest WizzAir Review

Consider bus/coach travel if you’re on a budget

In addition to planes and trains, Europe is very well connected by an extensive bus (AKA coach) network.

One of the main contenders in this space is Flixbus, but depending on the country you’re visiting, there’s often local companies offering affordable bus travel between cities as well.

Again, I’d recommend using Omio so you can quickly compare buses, trains, and flights at the same time, but just know that bus travel in Europe can be a really cheap, safe, and easy way to get around.

Although there are of course some downisdes as well. You can read my full Flixbus review for more details.

Book an airport transfer for minimal stress

I love navigating Europe with public transport but if you’re travelling with a lot of luggage or as a big group, one of the more cost effective ways might actually be to just book a private transfer or taxi.

Of course, depending on where you go, taxi scams can be a real possibility, so for the least stressful option, consider booking a Welcome Pickups transfer, which is a set price, includes an English speaking driver who monitors your flight arrival time, and offers free cancellations up until 24 hours before.

This saves you the hassle of trying to get a taxi/navigate the language barriers to do so.

… Plus they pick you up with a cute little sign that has your name on it!

Do research on how trains work in your destination

I have to say, one of the most overwhelming things for me in Europe was getting used to how trains work. I come from West Coast Canada, where passenger rail from city to city is very limited.

SO if you’re new to train travel, it might be helpful to do some research on how the train system works in your destinations, paying attention to particularities like…

• Where to find the right platform for your train
• Where to stand in order to find the right section of your train
• Whether you need to buy and validate tickets before you get on board

Train stations are chaotic and stressful places, so you’ll ideally want to know these main things before you get there, otherwise you may have a lil mental breakdown on-site.

Use train station lockers

If you’re looking for a stress-free way to explore a city for the day, or if you need a place to dump your bags before check-in or after check-out, a convenient solution can often be found at your destination’s train station.

At larger train stations in Europe, there will usually be paid lockers or a ‘left luggage’ office for you to leave your bags for a small fee. Be sure to take advantage of these so you can explore without hauling all your lively possessions with you.

Order taxis or rides through apps whenever possible

Of course, this isn’t possible everywhere, but taxi scams are so widespread in certain European countries that you should definitely use an app when you’re able to.

The most popular ones in Europe include Uber, or FreeNow which is like Uber except you’re ordering an official licensed taxi.

Ordering through an app helps ensure you get a fair rate, and is also (in most cases) more convenient than waiting at a taxi stand or trying to wave one down in the street.

Always look for deals with public transport

If you’re relying on public transportation to get around during your trip (which I highly recommend), then doing a bit of research on ticket types and discounts can really save you a lot of money.

Most major European cities offer some kind of discount for day tickets, group tickets, or multiple trip bundles, so be sure to look into those rather than buying single tickets every time.

Always validate and hold onto your ticket

When it comes to navigating public transportation in Europe, most times it’s not enough to simply buy a ticket – you must usually a) validate it properly and b) keep it on you in case of inspection.

Who’s checking you ask? Well, most major European cities have random ticket controllers who periodically go around to make sure you’ve paid for and validated your fare correctly.

Sometimes (like in Paris) they’ll even ask to see your ticket after you’ve left the train platform, so be sure to hold onto your ticket until you’ve left the station.

Avoid public transport during rush hour… and during big events like sports games

When you’re a care-free tourist, it can be easy to forget the woes of mundane daily life like trying to get home during rush hour. Well, don’t forget: no matter where you go, they have a rush hour too, so be sure to avoid it whenever possible.

Ideally, you should aim to avoid public transport during times that locals are commuting to/from work. Pay special attention as well to big events like huge concerts or sport games, which can also make public transport a nightmare.

Easily rent bikes or scooters

Most major European cities now have e-bikes and e-scooters that you can easily rent on-the-go through an app. This can be a fun way to quickly and cheaply get around the city.

Options will depend on your destination, but keep an eye out upon arrival! If they are available, odds are you will see them everywhere.

Europe Tips for Attractions

Odds are, if you’re visiting Europe, your plans involve a lot of sightseeing. So, here are some of my best Europe travel tips related to attractions and itinerary planning.

Prepare yourself for scaffolding and restorations

Europe is an amazing destination thanks to its history.

… But the flip side of that is that it is old and so are many of its most famous monuments.

So, mentally prepare yourself for the possibility that the amazing church or landmark you’ve seen a million times on social media is covered in scaffolding, or doesn’t look as you hoped due to restorations.

For example, the first time I went to Rome, I was devastated to see the Trevi Fountain completely covered with scaffolding, and drained of water.

And most travelers have similar stories. There’s no way around it, but just keep in mind that it’s possible!

Look into age-based discounts

Oftentimes, whether you’re looking at train tickets or attraction tickets, there will be enticing discounts available based on your age, so be sure to look into those for additional savings, especially if you’re considered a child, youth (often this goes up to age 27!) or senior.

Get an ISIC Card if you’re a student

Here’s a very important Europe travel tip for students: if you are a student, the good news is you’re eligible for a wealth of additional discounts and offers.

The bad news is, often European institutions won’t recognize or accept student IDs from abroad, since they’re all so different.

An easy way to get around this though is by getting an  ISIC Card , which is an internationally recognized student ID that costs about twenty dollars, but will save you at least that much in discounts. 

I’d recommend getting one if you plan to travel around Europe for a longer time.

On a budget? Prioritize free museums and sights

This is one of my top Europe backpacking tips – do not sleep on the many free things to see and do in Europe.

Everywhere you go in Europe, there will be free things to do and see, ranging from free museums to beautiful architecture and street art.

So, be sure to research beforehand and see what free things there are to do at your destination.

NOTE:  A lot of museums across Europe offer free admission on particular days of the month. Take advantage of these offers!

Book tickets for attractions in advance whenever possible

This is usually cheaper, and can save you a lot of time on the day of your visit because at major attractions, there’s usually a separate line for people who already have tickets.

Skip the line tickets are usually worth it

If you’re visiting a busy destination, then I’d highly recommend looking into Skip the Line tickets for major attractions, which will allow you to get in quicker.

Remember, during your trip, time is money, so paying a bit extra to skip the line is definitely a good use of funds.

Visit attractions shortly before closing time

While most guides advise that you visit the main sights early, another sneaky hack that works quite well is visiting right before it closes.

I did this once with the Vatican Museums, entering about 1.5 hours before closing time and it I practically had the place all to myself!

In contrast, one time I did an early morning tour of the Vatican and it was already quite busy because other tour groups were starting at the same time. 

Book special tours that are before or after public opening hours 

Many busier destinations will offer this now, and it’s a magical way to experience the top sights with a fraction of the crowds.

I once did a sunrise tour around Venice and it was incredible to see all the main sights and feel like I had them mainly to myself.

Seek out fun and unique tours in general

Gone are the days that destinations offer just your old standard tours that cover everything generally.

These days, in most major European destinations, there are special tours you can book based on interest, with tours focusing on everything from history and food to street art and photography.

I usually like to have a quick search on GetYourGuide to see what’s available.

For touristy cities, research on local blogs 

In big cities like Paris or London, sure there’s a lot of tourists, but there are even more locals, who live there and call it home.

This means there’s a whole other side to the city that many tourists miss out on, from cool pop-ups and restaurants to special cultural events. I always try to look up fun events/updates on local blogs before every trip, and have gotten some really fun travel memories out of it.

You might find my guide on  How to Find Cool Stuff to Do Near You  helpful.

Seek alternate viewpoints to main landmarks

If you ever find yourself in a place wanting to get THE photo of a major landmark (e.g. the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the Coliseum in Rome, etc.) then a great way to get an amazing photo away from the crowds is by seeking out alternative angles and perspectives.

Remember, landmarks are big, so odds are you can find some cool places to get your photos without having to cram with everyone else. Simply walk a few blocks away and try to find unique views!

Always search for information on the official websites of attractions (even in the local language)

These days, hours/entry requirements can change quickly and third party guides (yes, even Google Maps!) may be inaccurate. 

So, if you’re trying to find information on how to book tickets or what opening times are, make sure you always go straight to the source rather than other sites or blogs (even mine!)

For example, on my most recent visit to Rome, the Pantheon had changed its policy to be open only for reserved time slots on weekends, which would have been really unlucky because I saw no information about this anywhere else.

Don’t spread yourself too thin

An ideal itinerary should have a mix of sights, experiences & relaxing. Don’t burn out by forcing yourself to see everything. I personally always ensure that there’s a relaxing or chill activity on each day, whether that be a picnic or just a relaxed coffee/cake afternoon.

If you’re not interested, don’t force yourself just because it’s a must do

I think too often, first-time visitors in Europe get caught in this trap of needing to see all THE most famous things, but remember: at the end of the day, this is your vacation, so don’t force yourself to see something just because a random person on the Internet told you to.

I personally love museums but they’re not for everyone, so just remember it’s your vacation and there’s no need to do something just because it’s famous.

… but psst – if you ARE into museums, don’t wait until your trip to go! There are tons of really cool virtual museums you can check out when you’re bored. Pro tip from one hopeless nerd to another.

Safety Tips for Europe (And How to Not Get Scammed!)

Is Europe dangerous to travel? This is one of the most common questions that first-time visitors ask. Honestly, so long as you keep the following Europe safety tips in mind, you will be fine.

Be wary of petty theft and scams when you visit Europe

Certainly in more touristy cities like Paris and Barcelona, opportunistic crime is abundant.

You can learn the most common pickpocket techniques and how to avoid them in my post about how to avoid pickpockets in Europe , but overall, the key is to always be vigilant and keep an eye on your belongings.

Pickpockets thrive on distraction, and tend to operate in high-traffic areas that have a lot of people/tourists (e.g. train stations), so be especially careful to not let anyone get too close.

Look into theft-proof bags and accessories

There are a lot of amazing theft-proof travel accessories out there these days. The bad news is they’re not always the cheapest.

If you’re willing to splurge a bit on something high-quality and designed to thwart pickpockets, here are some options:

• PacSafe’s  products are all made to be theft-proof, including their signature backpack  here  and day bag  here
• Secret passport scarves  like these  are a great way to stash THE most important things in a subtle and discreet way 

Research the pickpocket hot zones for your destination

Most major cities have certain areas that are particularly well-known as pickpocket destinations.

In Rome for example, there’s Termini Train Station where I got pickpocketed, and Bus 64 AKA the Pickpocket Express.

Knowing where pickpockets tend to operate can help provide some ease of mind, and help you figure out when to be on guard.

Keep valuables out of sight

Leaving your phone on a terrace table, or your purse hanging on your chair are both easy ways to get your valuables stolen!

Sure, it’s easy to let your guard down when you’re trying to relax, but remember that keeping your valuables out like that can be an easy way for them to get snatched.

Whenever I’m dining anywhere, I always keep my bag between my feet so they’re hard to access, and make sure to not leave my phone out on the table (on my lap, under a big napkin is often a safer bet!)

Don’t take “free stuff”

A very common scam in touristy European places is people will offer you something for free “as a gift”, but then demand you (or one of your travel buddies) pay for it.

Some examples include…

• Friendship bracelets

Generally, they will set up shop in busy, touristy areas, so remember to be especially cautious in these areas.

Don’t sign any petitions

Another common scam is the petition scam, usually run by groups of young women.

They’ll come ask you to sign a petition (often first breaking the ice by asking if you speak English) and then either demand a donation from you, or distract you as someone else picks your pockets.

… So if someone asks you to sign a petition, just ignore and walk away. Better safe than sorry!

Rudeness is the way to get rid of scammers

On that note, if you find yourself in a situation where you are being followed or confronted by one of the aforementioned scammers, the best thing to do is ignore them and walk away.

They can be very persistent, but will give up eventually when you ignore them.

Limit the amount of cash you bring out with you

I always say to plan for ‘worst case scenario’, so another one of my top Europe safety tips is to not bring around more cash than you’d stand to lose.

Once upon a time, my friend was carrying around hundreds of euros in her bag (at the start of her trip) and was pickpocketed in Nice on her very first day! Pickpockets work quickly and unexpectedly, so don’t bring out more than you’d be okay losing.

Store your cards separately

On a similar note, make sure to not carry all your cards in one wallet, so that (in case you are pickpocketed), you have a back-up.

I would recommend keeping one card in your suitcase, or in a separate bag.

Don’t make yourself appear to be a good target for robbery

Sometimes when I’m travelling I’ll see people doing photoshoots posing with their designer shopping bags, completely oblivious to the fact that they’re making themselves targets.

Worse, sometimes they just leave the bags on a bench or on the stairs while they’re occupied on their phone.

If I were to write a “how to get robbed in Europe” article, these are the types of behaviours that would make the list, so make sure you’re not making yourself a clear target, and don’t wear unnecessarily flashy outfits or accessories which might catch a thief’s eye.

Keep your phone out of reach

Phone snatchings are becoming a really common crime, especially in big cities like London, so avoid having your phone haphazardly out, or at least be sure to pay more attention when you do, especially…

• If you’re standing close to doors on public transport
• If you’re walking along a bike lane or road

Be careful of bike lanes

Speaking of bike lanes, here’s another important (physical) Europe safety tip: be mindful of them.

If you’re like me and come from somewhere that they’re not overly common, it’s way too easy to accidentally walk onto them and potentially get yourself run over (or more likely, make yourself an annoyance to a cyclist just trying to get home).

Beware of strangers asking you to go for drinks randomly

This is a scam that’s more prevalent in famous party cities, but if a random person (usually an unreasonably attractive woman) comes up to you off the street and asks you to grab a drink, odds are rather good that they’re not just a friendly local looking to grab drinks with a stranger.

This is a common scam where people (again, usually beautiful women, but not always) will bring targeted tourists into bars they’re working with to get a few drinks, only for these tourists to get charged extortionate rates for these drinks, because you never question how much stuff costs when you’re trying to flirt.

Extreme stories even say that bar staff will block the door until the tourists pay up.

Moral of the story: if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.

And beware of children

A general rule of thumb is this: if a kid is confidently coming up to you and/or getting close unannounced, keep your valuables close and watch your pockets. This is often a distraction tactic used by pickpockets, and sadly some kids are also trained to steal from a young age too.

I almost lost my wallet in Bratislava this way, when a woman asked me to take her photo and her kid started running around me as a distraction.

I realized pretty quickly what was happening and caught my pickpocket literally with her hand in my purse. Luckily, I was able to swat her hand away just in time.

Buy some small locks to put around your zippers

Another great travel hack I’ve picked up over the years is simply buying a set of small cable locks  like these  and keeping one in each bag.

That way, you can quickly lock your zippers together in crowded situations and prevent anyone from randomly opening your bag.

Simple, but effective.

Look up common taxi rates and scams before arriving

While I’m a firm believer that public transport is the way to go, sometimes you might need to take a taxi, whether it’s because you’re arriving late, running late, or just want to splurge a little.

While this varies depending on the country, taxis are often prime scam zones! I’ve personally been scammed by taxis in  Prague  and also in  Sofia.

Particularly if you are leaving from busy areas like airports or train stations, some opportunistic drivers will take advantage. This is how I got charged 4x the usual fare in Sofia, mainly because I didn’t know better.

So, if you plan on taking a taxi, make sure you search up how much that route should generally cost, and also familiarize yourself with common scams.

Know the emergency numbers

In North America, 911 is the go-to when you have any kind of emergency, but the numbers are different in Europe.

Within the EU (and a handful of other countries), the general emergency number is 112, and most countries will have other numbers for more specific emergency services as well.

So, be sure to take note of what these are before your trip, although I’ve heard anecdotally that 911 should reroute to emergency services as well.

Avoid sketchy EuroNet ATMs

If you’re going to an ATM, try your best to find one that’s connected to an actual bank.

There are a lot of ATMs (especially around tourist areas) that charge huge fees, or make currency conversion more confusing than it needs to be so you can get charged more.

As a general rule, don’t use any of those Euronet ATMs – they’re the worst!

Have a plan in case of a worst case scenario

This isn’t just a good Europe travel tip, but a good tip for travelling anywhere – make a plan for the worst case scenario.

Imagine your bags get stolen with your passports and all your cash/cards – what would be your backup plan? What would you do if you lost your phone?

Having a plan in place can minimize stress in the event that anything does happen, and having that peace of mind is very important for any vacation!

Get a good VPN

If you plan to be travelling longer-term, getting a reliable VPN is a must.

In short, VPNs (or Virtual Private Networks) mask your IP address and encrypt your data so that you can protect your identity online, browse anonymously, and even change the geographical location you’re browsing from.

This can be helpful in a lot of backpacking situations. In the past, I’ve used a VPN to…

• Access streaming for my favourite TV shows that weren’t available in the country I was travelling in
• Visit sites that were blocked in the country I was travelling in
• Access important sites (e.g. banking portals) that flagged my visit as suspicious because I was in a new country
• Securely browse the Internet with public WiFi knowing my data/identity was protected

As a real cheapskate (especially in my earlier travel days), I’ve tried every free VPN under the sun, and always found them to be unreliable or buggy.

After doing lots of research, I decided to splurge on  Private Internet Access , which I’ve been using for the past few years, and I’ve been loving it. It’s super easy to use, very reliable, and actually (when you break it down) not expensive it all.

Subscribe via  this link  and you can get it for under 3 bucks a month.

Food & Drink Tips for Europe

When in Europe, eating and drinking well is a must! Here are some of my best tips for making the most of Europe’s varied food culture.

Visit grocery stores to save big

Not only is visiting supermarkets abroad just a fun cultural activity in general, you can save a great deal of money by buying snacks/drinks there vs. from vendors as you’re out and about.

If you have cooking facilities at your accommodation, making some of your own meals can also be a huge money-saver, even if you’re just swapping out a sit-down lunch for a picnic one.

Beware that you might need to weigh your own produce

Of course, visiting supermarkets abroad can come with its own healthy dose of culture shocks, one of the main ones being that most countries have their own different method of handling produce.

Should you weigh it? Print a sticker? Just bring it as-is?

The answer will depend, so observe what others are doing before you get caught awkwardly at the cashier with a woman shouting at you in Bulgarian because you didn’t weigh your tomatoes (true story).

Have a quick search of regional specialties before you go

European cuisine is SO diverse, and even within one country, you’ll have all kinds of different regional dishes to try, so I’d recommend doing some research beforehand about the top must-tries, so you can keep an eye out for them.

For example, you might think you know what Italian food is but when you go to actual Italy, you’ll realize that every region has their own special dishes, so be sure to look into what those are before just getting pizza everywhere.

Dine far away from tourist attractions

A general rule of thumb is that any restaurants right next to major tourist attractions are probably gonna have a poor price to quality ratio, since they cater more to tourists who are flush with cash and unlikely to return.

My tip? Just walk a few blocks over before starting your food hunt, or d some research beforehand to find well-rated restaurants near you.

Learn how to spot a tourist trap restaurant

Tourist trappy restaurants are a dime a dozen in Europe’s more popular destinations, so make sure you work on your tourist trap radar.

A few red flags include…

• Big pictures
• The menu being translated into a million languages
• The words “TOURIST MENU” over it
• A really persistent person out front beckoning you to come inside

Double check that places have prices on display before ordering

This may be the oldest scam in Europe’s “let’s extort tourists” playbook, but any restaurant with fair pricing will be transparent with their pricing.

If you come across a restaurant that doesn’t list prices upfront, then run for the hills.

Never assume “it can’t be that bad” because odds are they’ve omitted their prices for a reason and plan to charge you an extortionate amount, like  this place  which went viral for a 500 euro lunch bill.

A quick check of reviews is a must

While I don’t believe reviews are accurate 100% of the time, I do think they’re very helpful for establishing patterns, especially when there’s a bunch of reviews all saying the same thing.

A quick search of the restaurant (even on Google Maps Reviews) can help prevent you from getting scammed or being subject to mediocre food/service.

Lunch specials are usually cheaper

If you’re gonna splurge and treat yourself, lunch might be the time to do it. Many places will offer special deals for lunch, so keep an eye out for those!

Usually the bill won’t come until you ask for it

Generally speaking, the ultra-friendly and proactive customer service you get in North America doesn’t really exist in European countries.

Very rarely will you have servers come up to constantly check on you and ask how you’re doing, so if you’re wondering why nobody has brought the bill around, just get their attention because they don’t tend to drop it off until you ask (doing so without asking is actually considered a bit rude in itself).

Don’t shy away from food tours

If you’re running on limited stomach space but want to try as many local specialties as possible, then food tours are a really fun and delicious option.

Most big destinations in Europe have them these days, and they’re a great way to sample a lot of local foods while also getting a local guide’s perspective and expertise.

Context is key and learning about food (while eating it!) is the best.

Take a cooking class 

Another foodie activity that’s now offered in most European destinations these days is cooking classes.

There’s no better souvenir than learning how to prep your favourite foods once you get home, so definitely consider adding one to your itinerary.

Get used to sparkling water

Sparkling water is a lot more common in certain European countries than in North America, to the point where sometimes it’s the default if you ask for water.

If you’re not a fan of spicy H20, then make sure to specify Still when you order water.

Don’t pay extra for hotel breakfast

Don’t get me wrong, I love a good hotel breakfast when it’s included in the room rate, but if you’re given a choice, you can save a lot of money by going out to get breakfast at a bakery, which is also more fun in my opinion.

When weather permits, picnics are a much better option

I love picnics. They’re such a romantic and affordable way to enjoy a meal, especially when you have a great backdrop.

Make sure you picnic at least once during your trip – I promise you’ll love it! And your wallet will too.

Generally speaking, Europeans eat later than North Americans

After living in Germany for a few years, making dinner plans with friends at home almost put me in a coma. Dinner at 5:30 or 6pm? Wayyyy earlier than most European countries, especially Spain where dinner time is often after 9pm.

Of course, you can take advantage of this cultural difference by getting a table at popular restaurants simply through booking as soon as they open.

Be openminded with trying new foods

I hated beer until I had it in Belgium. I hated cheese until I tried smoked cheese in the Netherlands.

I don’t know how to explain it, but certain food and drink items just taste different, and frankly, better in Europe than they do in North America.

So before you write something off as a food you don’t like, give it a try. You might be pleasantly surprised, especially if it’s the regional specialty.

Get takeout for super cheap with Too Good to Go

One of my favourite (little-known) Europe travel apps is called  Too Good to Go.

They service many major European cities, and basically, it’s a free app that restaurants use to sell their leftover food at the end of the day (sometimes at lunch too).

This helps minimize food waste, and means you can pick up an entire take out meal for less than 5 euros.

Sure, you don’t get to choose what you get, but it’s an excellent way to eat cheap and help reduce waste at the same time.

Culture & Etiquette Tips for Europe

Tourists can often have a reputation for being rude… but not you! Not on my watch. Here are some culture and etiquette tips to keep in mind for your trip to Europe.

Culturally, Europe is a million different entities

One of my biggest pet peeves when it comes to Europe travel advice is when books or sites tell you “In Europe, tipping is like…”, “In Europe, locals are…”

… Which I know is kind of ironic in an article simply called “Europe Travel Tips” but shhh just go with it.

Long story short: Europe is composed of dozens of countries, each with their unique cultural nuances and norms, so be sure to research culture tips specifically for where you’re going, because things like tipping, queuing, meal times, etc. can vary considerably across the continent.

Learn at least hello and thank you 

While visitors can often survive just fine without learning the local language, i’s generally good manners to know basics such as hello and thank you for every country you visit.

… So be sure to practice that a bit before you go!

Do not tip by North American standards

As I previously mentioned, tipping in Europe does vary from country to country, but never would a 20% tip be considered the bare minimum like in North America sometimes.

So, be sure to research tipping culture in your destination before you go. In many countries, tipping involves simply rounding up.

Try to not speak too loud

In Europe, North Americans generally have a reputation for being… loud. Sometimes obnoxiously so.

So if you’re out in public, try to lower the volume of your voice to closer match what’s around you (easier said than done, I know, but something to be mindful of).

When in doubt, mimic the locals 

Cultural norms can vary widely from place to place, so your best bet is to just observe the status quo and try to imitate that.

If nobody is chatting on the train, it’s probably a good sign that you shouldn’t either. If everybody is lining up in an orderly queue, maybe you should join that queue instead of barging in the front.

Remember, tourists can have a reputation for being disrespectful and annoying, so try your best to shatter that stereotype wherever you go.

Look into festivals and folk events to attend 

One of the most amazing things about Europe as a continent is that it is so deeply rooted in heritage and tradition, with some cultural traditions dating back thousands of years.

For a truly unforgettable experience, I’d recommend looking up some fun festivals or events to enjoy. 

Here are some of my favourites I’ve been to:

• September: Bad Dürkheim Wurstmarkt (the world’s largest wine festival)
• September/October: Oktoberfest in Munich (the world’s largest beer festival)
• February: Crazy Days at Cologne Carnival
• March – April: Starkbierfest in Munich (unique strong beer festival)
• March – May: Keukenhof (the world’s largest flower garden)

Packing Tips for Europe

Not sure what to wear and what to pack for Europe? Here are my top Europe packing tips.

Steal my pre-made packing lists

If you’re overwhelmed with what to pack, I’ve already made some packing lists that you can use as a starting point!

Download them, print them, mail them to all your friends and exes! I hope you get tons of use out of them:

• My Europe winter packing list
• My Europe summer packing list
• My versatile minimalist packing list
• My toiletries packing list

Don’t bring any suitcases you can’t carry

I’ve always been an advocate for packing light, but a good rule of thumb is to not bring any suitcases you aren’t physically capable of carrying yourself.

There’s a million and one scenarios where you might have to end up carrying your suitcase in Europe, like…

• Your hotel or accommodation unexpectedly has no elevator
• The elevator you were counting on at the train station is out of order
• You need to carry your bag up some ancient staircase to get to your accommodation
• You need to lift your suitcase on/off the train you’re taking

So yes, whatever bag or suitcase you bring, make sure you’re able to carry it yourself.

Good walking shoes are a must

I cannot explain to you how much walking you’ll end up doing, so comfortable shoes are much more important than cute stylish ones.

That said, if you’re able to find comfortable walking shoes that are a bit dressier, opt for those over beat up runners.

Generally speaking, casual wear in Europe is more dressed up than what we’re used to in North America, so packing a nice pair of white sneakers or comfy leather boots would definitely be a more versatile choice over hole-filled running shoes.

Buy AirTags to track your suitcases

With airlines losing baggage all the time these days, I’ve finally caved and bought an AirTag to track my checked bag.

And honestly? I regret nothing! I love the ease of mind it provides, and should a thief ever nab my bag one day, I feel very smug knowing I’ll be able to track them down.

Pack an emergency outfit in your carry-on

On a similar note, one Europe packing tip I live by is always having an emergency set of clothes in your carry-on bag.

Checked bags get lost all the time, so having extra clothes with you is key for ease of mind. I usually bring all the top essentials with me in my carry-on. Better safe than sorry!

Pack clothes with hidden inner pockets rather than a money belt

While many travel experts tout the the benefits of money belts, I’ve honestly never been able to get on board with them. They’re awkward, sweaty, and reaching under your clothes to get change for an ice cream is just… not my idea of fun.

Instead of a money belt, I always have either:

• A backpack with a zippered pocket in the back, which makes it inaccessible to anyone else when worn
• A crossbody purse with a pocket on the backside, again making it inaccessible to anyone so long as I hold it close to me 
• A jacket with inner pockets so it’s impossible to reach in without getting super super close

These anti-theft methods are a LOT more comfortable to me than a money belt… so remember: a money belt isn’t the only way!

Bring a universal adapter

Power sockets in most European countries have two round holes and if you’re visiting from overseas, odds are you’ll need an adapter for your plugs to fit.

I’d strongly recommend buying a universal adapter  like this one  if you don’t have one already. Not only is it good for the standard round hole outlets, but it can also work for the three prong plugs in the UK, Malta, and Cyprus.

It’s cheap, can be re-used for every trip, and covers you in all situations. Definitely some of the best money I’ve ever spent!

Use packing cubes to organize and compress your clothes

I am such a packing cubes fangirl.

These beauties are a magical way to keep all your goods organized, while saving space in your bag as well. Gone are the days that you rummage through your entire pack for a particular t-shirt!

Not all packing cubes have to be expensive either. There’s plenty of affordable options on Amazon, like this blue set from  Amazon Basics , but you definitely get what you pay for.

PS: I’m a total packing cube nerd and once bought a bunch of different brands to compare. See my full  packing cube showdown  for more.

Pack a re-usable bag for purchases

Single use bags are slowly getting phased out in Europe, so I find it’s always a good idea to bring an extra bag or two whenever I travel, whether to stash my souvenir haul for the day or to carry around snacks.

So, when in doubt, pack a tote or two! They can be such lifesavers.

DIY your own travel sized toiletries

This is a very basic  packing tip  I always recommend, but rather than buy the bottles of toiletries which give you like, three good squeezes of shampoo, I find it’s easier (and more eco-friendly) these days to buy small reusable bottles that you can fill with your own toiletries of choice.

This allows you to bring your favourite products with you, and saves needless one-use toiletries from ending up in the landfill.

Need help picking the right one?  Read my guide to  reusable toiletry bottles  for more info.

Final Europe Travel Tips to Know Before You Go

Alright, before I let you get back to… your real life, friends, and family, here are some final random Europe travel tips to keep in mind.

Having cash is important

With the exception of Northern Europe and some parts of the UK, cash is still important to carry around, whether for small purchases or for essentials like using the washroom. Keeping coins is also a good idea.

So, don’t forget that cash is still king in many parts of Europe!

Claim VAT refunds at the airport

Taxes are generally built into the price in Europe, so many travellers don’t realize they are paying up to to 20% in VAT (Value Added Tax) for everything they purchase.

The good news is, when it comes to goods that you are buying and taking home (e.g. clothes, gifts, etc.), non-residents of Europe are eligible for a refund on this VAT that you pay.

VAT refund rules vary from country to country, but usually there’s a minimum spend amount in one single location (around 175 EUR in most cases).

So, keep this in mind and you can get a good chunk of change back. To get the step by step process, Google your destination + VAT refund, as the process does differ country to country.

Floors start at zero so don’t get confused 

If you’ve seen Emily in Paris you’ll already know this one.

The floor system in European buildings tends to differ from North America.

Whereas in North America, the ground floor is often the 1st floor, the ground floor is considered its own separate entity in most countries (i.e. Floor 0) and then the next one above that would be the 1st floor.

Prepare for beds to be different

Bed sizes in Europe tend to be smaller, and doubles can often just be two single beds pushed together (so romantic, I know).

Depending on where you go, the pillows and comforters can be different as well, like in Germany where they’ve randomly decided that the optimal shape for a pillow is square. *shudder*

Beware of words you know that may mean a different thing in other languages

For example, a menu for North Americans is a list of dishes you can order, but a menu in France means a set meal or combo.

Similarly, entrées in North America are the main course, when in France, it means appetizer.

Use Google Maps to save spots you want to see

Google Maps is an amazing resource not just for navigating a new city, but also for saving spots you might want to visit in the future.

One of my favourite  travel hacks  is starring every location I deem interesting on Google Maps. You can do this by pressing the Save button when you search up that spot.

This allows you to have a visual map of all the cool cafes, street art murals, attractions, restaurants, etc. that you’ve saved during your research, which means you can easily organize your itinerary/sightseeing.

I love doing this because I’ll often end up in new areas during my explorations, and I can just look at my map to see if anything interesting I read about happens to be nearby. Saves a lot of planning!

Need customer support? Hop on Twitter

Don’t ask me why this is, but if you need to get ahold of customer support during your trip (e.g. an airline, a train company, etc.), usually the quickest response time will be through Twitter.

The best way to tell if you’ll get a reply on Twitter is by checking the official accounts’ replies – if there are recent replies to Tweets, odds are good that there’s a dedicated staff member monitoring the account.

This of course works in non-travel settings as well!

Get crowdless photos by using this cool photo hack

For iPhone users, there’s a super easy way to get cool photos in crowded places without getting a bunch of people in the shot.

Simply follow these steps:

• Turn on Live photo
• Pose for your photo, making sure to stand still
• Get your photographer to snap a few photos of you standing still
• Edit the photo by going in the upper left corner, click on the LIVE button with the downwards arrow, and turn on Long Exposure
• The crowds walking around you should now be blurry, with you still in focus

Binge on movies set in your destination before your visit

You know, I could binge travel quotes all day but nothing will put me in more of a wanderlusty mood that a good movie set somewhere beautiful.

So, if you binge travel movies set in your destination, I promise your trip will be 1000000x times more enjoyable when you recognize the sights that you’re seeing. Trust me.

Consider learning the Cyrillic alphabet

If you are travelling somewhere that uses the Cyrillic alphabet, it can be very beneficial to learn how to read it.

This is because sometimes destination names at train/bus stations are written only in the local alphabet, which can lead to a lot of confusion if you’re unfamiliar with it.

European countries that use the Cyrillic alphabet include…

• North Macedonia

Remember: Europe is more about the experience than it is about seeing a million sights

Last but not least, I have to say… Europe is beautiful, yes. It’s packed to the brim with gorgeous museums, architecture, natural beauty, etc. BUT at the end of the day, what you need to focus more is on the experience of just being present and enjoying every moment.

Don’t stress yourself out too much with a heavy itinerary and trying to cram as much as possible in.

Enjoy it! Because your trip will go by far quicker than you think.

I hope this list of Europe travel tips was helpful!

If you’ve made it this far, wow. I applaud the stamina. And patience! This ha admittedly been a VERY long list of tips for Europe, but if you have any more questions, let me know in the comments… and be sure to read my list of unconventional travel hacks if you’re eager for more.

My Go-To Travel Favourites:

🧳 Eagle Creek: My favourite packing cubes

💳 Wise: For FREE travel friendly credit cards

🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

📷 Sony A7IV: My (amazing) camera

✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

By using this form you agree with the storage and handling of your data by this website. *

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes

Here's How to Plan Your Very First Trip to Europe, According to a Professional Traveler

Heading to Europe for the very first time? We've got some advice for you.

Whether you study abroad , backpack solo, or go with a group for your first trip to Europe, it's an experience that will change your life — and alter your perspective in all the best ways — forever. Even if you visited the continent with your parents as a kid, your first "solo" adventure to Europe as a young adult promises to reward you with rich memories. From digging into freshly baked pizza in Italy to picnicking beneath the Eiffel Tower with a still-warm baguette, it's a trip filled with experiences you'll talk about for the rest of your life.

Though I had visited Italy with my parents as a kid, my own first adventure to Europe as a young adult was in 2015. I was 21, newly married, and heartbroken at the loss of my father four months earlier. I had been studying British literature and European history in my college classes and was eager to make real-world connections to my curriculum. In preparation, my husband and I watched every Rick Steves video on YouTube and movies like Under the Tuscan Sun , Midnight in Paris , Notting Hill , and Eat, Pray, Love . The spring semester of my junior year ended, and we set off with nothing but backpacks containing a few (and I do mean a few) sets of clothes, a budget of about $100 per day, and five short weeks to see it all.

Besides opening our eyes, pushing us to our limits, and expanding our perspectives in ways that nothing else could, that trip ignited in us a shared passion for travel — and for encouraging others to do the same. Read on for tips for planning your first trip to Europe like a pro.

Get Around With a Eurail Pass

Do you need a Eurail pass to get around Europe? Maybe not, but I devoted a large chunk of our shoestring budget to it on my first trip, and I've bought one for every extended trip I've taken to Europe since then — even now that I've hit the ancient age of 28 and no longer qualify forEurail's discounted youth pricing — so that should tell you something.

Most of Europe is well connected via a vast rail network spanning the continent. A Eurail pass — available exclusively to non-Europeans — makes it hassle-free to hop between countries and even navigate regional trains. Depending on your travel plans, you can purchase passes for specific countries or regions and choose whether you need unlimited use or a set number of travel days.

Remember that once you're in Europe, hops between major cities are often surprisingly low-price (I've seen flights for as little as $6), but often a train is the best choice when you factor in time, convenience, price, and the chance to watch the world go by from your window. Splurge on first-class passes , and you'll always have a comfortable seat.

Plan Your Trip Geographically

Make a list of all your must-hit places, then look at where they fall on a map — connect the dots, and you have your route. Maybe you start in Spain and work your way east, or fly into London, take the Chunnel to Paris , and work your way down to Italy. Whatever you choose, ensure that your route makes sense geographically so you don't waste time (or money) crisscrossing the continent.

Keep Seasons in Mind

Europe is a large continent covering a variety of climates. It may seem obvious, but if you're planning a summer trip, don't expect to frolic in fields of Dutch tulips (that happens in the spring) or ski the Austrian slopes (that would be a winter thing). And as enchanting as the European Christmas markets look on Instagram, don't be disappointed when you put two and two together and realize that they'll only make it to your feed if you're going to Europe in November or December.

An Italian summer is nothing short of sweltering and ice-cold AC isn't a given, so if you're planning to cover all of Rome on foot at high noon, you may want to rethink that. (I learned this the hard way and damn near had a heat stroke.) A midday siesta is common in countries like Spain and Italy for a reason, so do as the locals do and take the summer weather into account before you overexert yourself.

Book in Advance

A PSA for type-A travelers like me: You don't have to have your entire trip planned out before leaving home. (I had a down-to-the-minute itinerary mapped out for my type-B husband and me on our first venture to Europe, and he almost left me as I dragged him from museum to walking tour to restaurant reservation and back again.) Part of the fun — especially if you have a Eurail pass — is going where the wind blows you and deciding what appeals to you upon arrival.

Pro tip: Taking a bus tour on your first day in a destination is a great way to get the lay of the land and cover a lot of ground quickly (without exhausting yourself).

Make a general timeline and book your departure flight from the USA to Europe before you leave home, but perhaps wait until you've hopped the pond to book your flight back. You may decide to stay longer in a particular country or run out of time to make it all the way to Portugal, where you originally intended to fly out of. Create a general outline, but leave some of your trip open and stay flexible.

The one thing you may want to do in advance is reserve hotels, hostels, and Airbnbs because they can fill up during the popular summer months. That's why it's helpful to have a general idea of where you'll be and when — just don't cling to your plan at the expense of a spontaneous sidetrack or two.

What to Bring to Europe

Start working on your packing list a few months beforehand. What you bring will vary depending on destinations, length of trip, and your fussiness level, but there are a few non-negotiables.

Don't leave home without:

• Your passport
• Converters for European outlets (both UK and EU, as needed)
• A credit card and/or a debit card for getting cash out of an ATM (you'll get a better rate this way than doing it through a currency-exchange counter)
• COVID-era items such as your vaccine card, printed copies of your negative COVID test results (if required) , and a few self-test kits
• A secure envelope to hold all of these important documents (including a few color copies of your passport) in one place
• An international plan added to your phone (unless you're a T-Mobile customer)
• Global Entry (not necessary, but a definite plus when you return to the USA)

You'll also find life a lot easier with the Google Translate app and the XE currency conversion app on your smartphone. Before you depart, download the countries you'll be visiting to ensure offline availability. The Been app , where you can track which countries you've visited and how much of the world you've seen, is another fun app for travelers, especially on a trip like this where you'll be checking off a lot of countries.

And a note on packing light : You'll need nothing more than a backpack and a carry-on, max. Trust me. (There are laundry rooms at every hostel and laundromats in every city.)

Where to Go on Your First Trip to Europe

If you only have time or the budget to see a few places, start with the basics . You've likely learned about major cities like London, Paris , and Rome since you can remember — now's the time to see them through your own eyes.

Once you have the must-hit places on your itinerary, plan some additional stops according to your interests. There's a lot to see in Italy outside of Rome — I'd include Venice, Cinque Terre or the Amalfi Coast, Florence, and the surrounding Tuscan wine country on any trip to Italy, especially for first-timers.

Maybe you've been digging into your ancestry and found that you have Hungarian heritage like I have — Budapest was a shoo-in for us this summer — or perhaps you've always dreamed of hiking the Swiss Alps, clinking glasses in a German beer hall, or soaking up the sun in the Greek Isles .

Maybe you want to visit Poland and pay your respects at Auschwitz — I consider this sobering, heart-wrenching experience a must — or try every waffle you come across in Belgium. You can do it all if you have enough time, but start by arranging a shortlist with your top priorities and then tack on additional destinations if you have space.

These are some of the best places to visit in Europe, but the best destinations for you will depend on your interests, priorities, and goals. If you're purely on "vacation" with no remote work or school obligations, two to three days in each place should suffice, but if you can't devote your full attention each day to exploring, then you'll want a little extra time in each city to do it justice.

Your 13-Step Guide to Traveling to Europe for the First Time

There is absolutely nothing like traveling to Europe for the first time–and we want to help make your experience as magical as possible!

It has been about a decade since our very first trip to Europe, and I still remember it like it was yesterday.

The thrill of the plane touching down in Paris , the confusion of taking the RER B train into the city, and the absolute electricity that shot through my veins as we exited the train stop and I marveled at the real-life version of Saint-Germain-des-Prés unfolding before my eyes (I swear, actual church bells were going off)–I remember it all.

I remember the next trip, too, where we upped the stakes: instead of a week in Paris, we spent 2.5 weeks exploring Krakow ,  Budapest ,  Plitvice Lakes National Park ,  Zadar ,  Dublin , and the  Cliffs of Moher .

… and then we quit our jobs to travel the world , and we’ve only gotten more obsessed with traveling Europe since.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

In the decade since that first trip to Paris, we’ve thrown ourselves into exploring the world, traveling full-time for 4+ years, visiting 50+ countries (including most countries in Europe), and even living in Portugal along the way.

One of my absolute favorite parts of my job, though, is to help people–primarily Americans like myself–plan their first trip to Europe.

Because here’s the thing: neither my husband Jeremy nor I ever had a passport or left the USA until we were adults.

We taught ourselves how to travel Europe and the world at large from scratch, and I remember the fear we felt and the mistakes we made along the way almost as well as I remember the beauty of that first glimpse of the Eiffel Tower.

If you find yourself with a major case of European wanderlust and a dizzying array of questions about how to turn those travel dreams into your actual first trip to Europe, this checklist is for you.

Here’s your step-by-step guide to traveling to Europe for the first time!

Table of Contents

Ready to Plan Your First Europe Trip?

Our top 2 tips for visiting europe for the first time, planning your first trip to europe: your 13-step checklist, faq about traveling to europe for the first time.

Helping people plan trips is our passion and purpose here on Our Escape Clause.

Once you read this step-by-step checklist for planning your first trip to Europe, we’d love to help you continue to plan your travels in more detail!

We have around a dozen general Europe travel guides on our website, including everything from suggested Europe travel itineraries to where to find the most magical Christmas markets , plus literally hundreds of posts on specific European destinations!

We’ll link relevant blog posts throughout this Europe travel guide, but if you’re curious about our coverage of any particular place, you can use the search bar in the top right corner of the site (or on the pop-out menu if you’re reading on your phone) to see what we’ve written.

You can also check out our destinations page to browse by country!

We have a lot to say when it comes to Europe travel tips ( here are 75 of our best ones ), but specifically for travelers visiting Europe for the first time, there are 2 pieces of advice we’d give above all others.

First, resist the urge to overcrowd your itinerary.

I go into this more below, but believe us, we absolutely relate: I still have to fight this urge with every trip we take!

However, moving around constantly is a surefire way to end up overwhelmed, exhausted, and not getting to appreciate all of the magnificent places you’re seeing.

Second, know that throwing down money and committing to finally taking the trip of your dreams is often the hardest part–once you board the plane, everything gets easier.

I vividly remember how nervous we were to book our first (and second, and third) trips abroad.

For 2 people who had never even had passports until they were adults, we had a lot to learn!

But at the same time–I’m so, so, so glad we took the plunge, and you will be too.

After all, millions of people travel to foreign countries each year, and there’s absolutely no reason that you can’t be among them.

You’ve got this!

Now onto the details…

Step 1: Get inspired and brainstorm where you want to go.

Without a doubt, the first step to planning a trip to Europe is brainstorming all of the places you want to visit!

If you’re anything like us, odds are high that the list is longer than what you could rationally accomplish in a decade, let alone on a single vacation, but it never hurts to dream!

Whether you want to road trip Tuscany , wander the streets of Paris , marvel at the Alhambra in Spain, hike on a glacier in Iceland, stroll along the Cliffs of Moher in Ireland , or something radically different, pay attention to what calls to you the most.

There are no wrong answers when deciding which destinations are most interesting to you!

Step 2: Check visa requirements for Europe.

While most readers of this blog post, such as Americans like us and other people from non-European, strong-passport countries like Canada and Australia, will likely not need a visa to take their dream trip to Europe, it’s always best to triple-check!

(And, in a post-2020 world, we all know more than ever that expectations can change quickly.)

As you research what you need to travel to Europe, you’ll likely come across many references to the Schengen Area .

These are the 26 European countries that share open borders with each other.

Americans and many others can visit these countries for up to 90 days out of any 180 without a visa.

In the future, the ETIAS system –essentially an e-visa procured by filling out paperwork online before traveling, which will cost a nominal 7 Euro–will come into effect for the Schengen Area.

ETIAS is currently slated to begin operating sometime in 2024, though the starting date has been pushed back several times.

Other countries–like the UK, Montenegro, and Romania, for example–are not part of this system, but if you come from a country with a strong passport, you likely won’t need a visa there either.

A few nearby places that might be on your radar, like Turkey , require an e-visa for Americans to enter.

Step 3: Shop for flights (and be as flexible as possible).

Once you have a list of your most-wanted travel destinations and have confirmed you’re clear to travel, it’s time to shop for your flights to Europe!

We recommend being as flexible as possible during this process, either with your travel dates, your destinations, or ideally, both.

Flight prices and routes can vary dramatically depending on where you’re coming from and where you’re going, which is one reason why we don’t recommend finalizing your Europe itinerary until you have your flights purchased (more on that below).

Ideally, you’ll want to start and end your first Europe trip in a major airport hub.

This doesn’t necessarily need to be the same hub, though!

While one-way tickets can be pricier than round-trip ones, if you’re flexible on your dates  and  destinations (so deciding which cities to start and end in partially based on price), you can usually find excellent deals.

This is exactly how we ended up flying into Krakow and out of Dublin during our first multi-country trip to Europe!

As far as airports go, for those of you coming from the USA (or anywhere in North America, really), you’ll want to potentially check ticket prices for London, Madrid , Dublin, Paris ,  Lisbon , Frankfurt,  Amsterdam , and  Milan .

That’s not an exhaustive list by any means, but there are often flight deals to and from these cities.

Step 4: Narrow down your itinerary for your first Europe trip.

Now that you’ve scored a great flight deal on the “bookends” of your trip, it’s time to fill in the rest of your itinerary for traveling Europe for the first time!

As we mentioned above, the biggest challenge here for most travelers is to not bite off more than they can chew and travel too fast.

Trust me, we understand the temptation–I still have to trim destinations from every. single. trip. that we plan, because my overwhelming desire to do it all fights with logic every step of the way.

I promise, though, you will have a much better trip if you slow it down.

Ideally, allow at least 2 full days (typically not including days you travel to or from the destination, though there are exceptions) to each “base” or city.

Staying in one place for 3 or 4 days is even better, and will give you time for a day trip or two.

We have several suggested Europe itineraries outlined here , and can highly recommend all of them!

However, there are truly infinite possibilities when it comes to structuring your first Europe trip.

When it comes to deciding exactly which of your dream destinations make the cut, we recommend letting geography be the tiebreaker.

For example, if you’re trying to decide whether to visit Amsterdam or Budapest on a trip where you fly into Paris, Amsterdam is the clear winner.

If you fly into Vienna instead of Paris, though… Budapest it is!

Other factors to keep in mind when narrowing down your itinerary include seasonality/weather and your budget.

Using Google Flights and searching the general term “Europe” in the “Where To?” box can be a great way to find unexpected flight deals!

(Don’t forget to play around with the map, zooming in and out on different regions–you might be surprised at what deals you find).

Step 5: Finalize your budget for traveling to Europe for the first time.

Now that you know exactly when your trip to Europe is happening and where you are going, it’s time to finalize your travel budget!

We recommend taking the total amount you hope to spend in Europe, subtracting any splurges or major expenses you know are coming (a pricey tour, some clothes shopping, etc.), and then dividing the remaining amount by the number of days you’ll be traveling in Europe.

Voila–you have your daily Europe travel budget!

This is the number you should try to stay under each day when you add up the amount you spend on food, activities, lodging, and intra-city transportation.

We have used this simple strategy to budget our trips for years and detail it more thoroughly in our travel budgeting guide .

Step 6: Book some of your accommodation.

Once you have your plane tickets, a plan for where you’re going, and a budget set, it’s time to decide where to sleep!

We offer specific hotel suggestions in the vast majority of our destination-specific travel guides, but generally speaking, you’ll want to look for something well-reviewed (we aim for an 8.0 rating or better on Booking.com ) in a central location.

Also, keep an eye out for air conditioning and/or heating as the weather demands–those things are not a guarantee in all areas!

A very general rule to keep in mind when booking hotels?

The smaller the destination, the earlier you will want to book.

Somewhere like Cinque Terre simply doesn’t have as much lodging available as it does people who want to visit, while places like Paris are big enough to absorb their travelers in spite of their popularity.

As a result, tiny, popular places are where we tend to book our accommodation the earliest.

Of course, if you’re headed somewhere for a big event or festival–say Oktoberfest in Munich or Christmas markets in Salzburg –you’ll want to book ASAP.

We find virtually all of our accommodation (short-term apartment rentals included) via Booking.com these days.

If we get stuck, we may occasionally check Airbnb too, but as the years have gone by, prices and guest expectations have both increased dramatically, so we find ourselves using it much less than we once did.

Step 7: Figure out your inter-city (or country) transportation.

When it comes to traveling between each of your destinations during your vacation in Europe, you might find that you come up with quite a mix of methods!

Trains are our favorite way to travel in Europe–they’re simple, comfortable, safe, and extremely convenient for visiting most major cities (there are caveats to this, in places like the Balkans).

We would only recommend renting a car if you’re visiting the countryside somewhere.

If your itinerary is a more typical first-timer’s route and sticks to major cities–something like London-Paris-Amsterdam–then a car is absolutely unnecessary.

Buses are our least favorite method, as they tend to be slow and uncomfortable, but are undoubtedly the cheapest.

Flights are by far and away the best option for extreme distances, but are cumbersome and tend to eat up an entire day.

And, finally: if you’re visiting Europe in the summer , don’t forget about ferries!

Step 8: Book some of your bucket-list travel experiences in Europe.

While simply existing in a gorgeous new destination is a bucket-list travel experience in and of itself, booking some unique tours and attractions can help make your trip even more memorable!

From touring the Colosseum at night to eating our way through Athens on an incredible food tour to snorkeling between 2 tectonic plates in Iceland, we have never been sorry to splurge on a memorable experience abroad.

(And yes, we paid our way on each of those tours–we don’t accept sponsored trips or tell anyone that we’re bloggers while there.)

Booking your experiences in advance goes beyond the small group tours, though: skip-the-line tickets for major attractions like the Arc de Triomphe , Vatican Museums , and Sagrada Familia are so beneficial that I cannot sing their praises enough.

We never show up to a major attraction without booking tickets in advance these days (and it’s even more important in a post-2020 world).

We book our skip-the-line tickets and many of our tours through Get Your Guide .

For bespoke, small-group tours that go above and beyond the “normal” experience, we love Take Walks .

Step 9: Learn a little bit of the local language(s).

If you’re staying firmly on the tourist trail on your trip to Europe, you won’t necessarily  need  to speak any of the local language(s) to travel there.

… But you will almost certainly encounter some monolingual Europeans, and either way, it will definitely enhance your experience in the country to know a tiny bit of their language.

Simple phrases like hello, goodbye, please, thank you, you’re welcome, do you speak English, and the numbers 1-10 can go a long way!

If you’d like to go a bit further, learning to order in restaurants and read menus is both helpful and efficient.

In addition to being fun and practical to learn, it’s one of the conversations that you’re likely to have repeatedly enough during your travels that the phrases will potentially stick with you until long after your trip is over.

Step 10: Make a packing list (and shop!).

Packing can often be one of the most unexpectedly stressful parts of getting ready for a trip, and even more so for your very first European vacation!

We have full suggested packing lists for Europe in spring , summer , winter , and fall , which go into far more detail than I have room for here.

Our absolute biggest advice for packing for Europe, though, is not to stress too much about it: just about anything you could possibly forget will be available there too!

For now, here are a few essentials that we absolutely recommend adding to your list:

Travel Adaptors for Europe — If you’re coming from outside of Europe, you’ll definitely need adaptors for your electronics.

Be sure to check the requirements for any particular country that you visit–the United Kingdom, for example, is well-known for using different plugs than most of the continent.

Comfortable Day Bag  — We currently use  Pacsafe’s sleek anti-theft backpack  and love it, but if you don’t want to shell out the cash for this trip, that’s totally understandable.

Just aim for something comfortable to wear, not flashy, and medium-sized–we used a  Northface Jester backpack  for years and loved it as well.

Portable USB Charger — Don’t stress about your phone dying while you’re sightseeing: add a portable charger to your packing list for Europe.

Basic Medication  — Some people prefer to buy medication for basic headaches, fevers, and stomach aches as needed, but who wants to deal with language barriers when they’re sick?

I personally learned this lesson the hard way on our very first trip to Europe, and have never hopped continents without my own supply since.

Step 11: Purchase travel insurance.

Don’t forget to purchase travel insurance before jetting off to Europe!

While Europe is generally a perfectly safe place to travel, the reality is that traveling in general opens you up to vulnerabilities that you simply don’t have at home.

If you miss a plane or train, have your luggage get lost, get pickpocketed, or worse, get injured, you’ll be glad that you have insurance.

Given how inexpensive travel insurance is when purchased in advance (especially as compared to the price of plane tickets!), it’s well worth the investment.

Consider checking inclusions and prices with  Safety Wing  for your first trip to Europe.

Step 12: Plan for your arrival.

The penultimate step of planning a trip to Europe is as simple as it is important: make an arrival plan.

When you arrive, you’re undoubtedly going to be exhausted, overwhelmed, and probably a bit jetlagged, too!

No matter how many times we step foot in a new country, it never stops being a tiny bit stressful, simply because there are a lot of variables at play in the first few hours of arriving somewhere new.

Make life easier on yourself by thinking ahead!

When learning how to travel to Europe, set aside time to figure out your exact steps for what to do after the plane lands.

That means knowing exactly how far away your hotel is, how you’ll get there from the airport (train, bus, rental car, taxi?).

If you’ll be traveling by taxi, look up what a reasonable price is at your destination and/or if there’s a set fare from the airport to the city center (in major cities, there often is).

Though it’s not strictly necessary, if you’d like to make arriving in Europe for the first time extra easy on yourself, consider treating yourself to an airport transfer when you arrive (like tours, you can often book these on Get Your Guide ).

Options like this one in Rome and this one in Paris can be a great way to make sure your very first Europe trip starts off on the right foot.

Step 13: Have an amazing first trip to Europe!

Once you’ve done the planning… then it’s time for the fun part!

Enjoy every step of your first trip to Europe, from the confusing parts to the magical ones–and yes, both will probably end up with a prominent place in your memories.

If you’re anything like us, the odds are high that your first experience of traveling in Europe won’t be your last.

Once you start… it’s hard to stop.

Every day, I wake up to emails from readers planning a trip to Europe.

I love answering emails (and yes, I will probably answer yours!), but there are definitely some frequently asked questions that come up often enough that they deserve a blanket response here.

These are some of the most common FAQs we see about traveling in Europe!

What’s the easiest way to get Euros and other currency?

The answer to this question has a significant caveat: be sure to check foreign transaction fees and ATM fees with your bank before leaving and let your financial institutions know that you’ll be abroad.

However, generally speaking, by far the easiest way to acquire a new currency when traveling in Europe is to simply withdraw money from the ATM when you arrive.

It has been years since we’ve done anything else, anywhere in the world!

When you’re at the ATM, be sure to opt to have the transaction go through in the currency you’re receiving (ie, Euros), not your home currency (ie, USD).

Your bank’s conversion rate will undoubtedly be better than the ATM’s!

Also, avoid Euronet-branded ATMs like the plague: they’re infamous for their extremely high fees.

Instead, look for an ATM operated by a local bank.

How should I get from city to city in Europe?

This depends entirely on your itinerary, but here’s a very short, very general answer.

Trains are the most comfortable, and often the most expensive.

Buses are the least comfortable, frequently take the longest, and are generally the cheapest.

Rental cars have their place–there are some truly phenomenal road trips in Europe –but rarely make sense for first-time travelers, who tend to bounce between major cities that are well-connected by rail.

Flights are the most cumbersome, as they burn time dealing with things like security and getting to and from airports located outside of city centers, and simply aren’t comfortable.

However, flights can be surprisingly affordable compared to trains and are obviously the fastest option for covering very long distances.

When traveling Europe for the first time, we recommend traveling by train wherever it makes sense, and filling in the other options as necessary ( here’s our full guide to train travel in Europe ).

Our first multi-country trip to Europe included an overnight train, a daytime train, 2 rental cars, and a flight–in other words, you can definitely mix and match!

How can I use my phone in Europe?

If your phone is unlocked, the cheapest and easiest way to use your phone in Europe is to buy a local SIM card.

You can either do that on the ground once you land (there’s almost always a selection of helpful kiosks near the airport exit) or if you’d prefer not to worry about it once you arrive, you can buy one online before you go or even try out an eSIM card.

If your phone is not unlocked, or you just hate the idea of changing your SIM card, check with your carrier and see what they offer as far as international plans go.

Will I need an adaptor for my electronics?

Most likely, yes!

Luckily, adaptors are cheap to buy and easy to carry–we recommend picking these up before you go.

Keep in mind that the UK and a few other countries ( Ireland ,  Malta ) use a separate plug from the bulk of the continent.

If you’re heading to a place that uses UK plugs, you’ll want these adaptors as well.

Do I need to be worried about pickpockets?

I wouldn’t go so far as the use the word “worried”, but aware, yes.

Pickpockets are a problem around the world in places where there are crowds, and that includes major European cities.

Barcelona, Rome, Paris, and Naples are examples of places that are particularly prone to pickpockets.

Watch your belongings carefully, especially near particularly crowded tourist attractions and in and around transportation hubs like train stations, and you will most likely be fine.

Very generally speaking, the closer to a world-famous landmark you are, the higher the risk of getting pickpocketed is in that place.

We have never been pickpocketed, but it does happen, even to experienced travelers.

We don’t choose to use a money belt anymore, and pickpockets certainly know about them, but if you would like another layer of protection, they’re an option (we used this one when we first started traveling).

An anti-theft day bag that can be locked and/or attached to a chair can help too, and we carry one everywhere ( we love this one ).

How severe is the language barrier?

It varies significantly, of course, but generally, it’s not nearly as difficult as first-time visitors to Europe worry before they arrive (ourselves included).

We recommend learning basic phrases in the language of the countries that you are planning to visit during your first European vacation, but this is usually more for good manners than out of necessity.

While you can absolutely find monolingual Europeans in virtually any country, especially in smaller cities and towns, the people employed in customer service roles and in the tourism industry in major cities–in other words, where most or all of your trip will likely take place–generally speak some English.

Can I drink the tap water in Europe?

Usually, yes!

We drink out of the tap just about anywhere in Europe.

In rare cases where the water is not safe to drink (usually in remote areas of southern and eastern Europe, or in very old buildings with iffy pipes), there will generally be large and obvious signs stating so.

If you’re worried about it, though, you can always ask your hotel concierge or host about it!

How far in advance should I book my trip?

For plane tickets, we recommend booking your trip as soon as you can commit to dates!

Not only will this allow you to have more time to plan and budget with a bit of structure, but it will also spread out your costs a bit more.

During peak seasons, like coastal locations in the summer or popular central European cities during the Christmas markets, you’ll want to book your hotels as far in advance as you can commit to them as well.

What’s your favorite country in Europe?

We get asked this all the time, and the answer is: we couldn’t possibly choose!

We definitely have a very special love for Italy –we’ve spent more time there than any other country outside the USA, traveled the country from north to south, know the travel scene there very intimately, and will continue to visit extensively for the rest of our lives.

And no, we haven’t discounted the possibility of living there one day, either!

However, simply naming Italy as our favorite would discount so much.

Like, for example, how much we adore hiking amongst the Alps in Switzerland, or waking up in picturesque bed and breakfasts in Ireland .

It skips over the joy of wandering through the art museums of Paris , admiring the rocky coastline of the western Algarve in Portugal, and jumping into the Adriatic Sea in Croatia .

Simply naming one favorite doesn’t leave room for sharing just how incredible it is to marvel at Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany, or devour Greek salads on Santorini … or so much more than I could include in this list.

And really, the answer to the question behind the question is this: as long as it’s somewhere that you’re desperate to visit, and you plan your trip well, it doesn’t really matter where you decide to go on your first trip to Europe.

Traveling to Europe for the first time is a magnificent and potentially (in our case, definitely) life-altering experience, and there are no wrong answers.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

2 thoughts on “Your 13-Step Guide to Traveling to Europe for the First Time”

Your blog is SO informative! Planning my first ever trip to Europe (Scotland in particular) and all the info you have is super helpful! 🙂

So glad to help, and I hope you have a fantastic trip to Scotland!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Europe Travel Guide

Last Updated: January 8, 2024

From beautiful Paris to smoke-filled coffeeshops in Amsterdam, Oktoberfest to La Tomatina, Europe is a massive, diverse continent with an unlimited assortment of things to see and do. You won’t have any problem filling your time, whether you’re backpacking Europe for a few months on a budget or just spending a few weeks there on a well-earned vacation.

The continent boasts wonderful beaches, historical architecture, amazing wine, and tons of world-class festivals. Every country is incredibly different from the next too, providing limitless variety in what you do during your trip.

I first backpacked Europe in 2006 and was hooked immediately. I’ve been visiting every year since, have run tours around the continent, and even wrote a book on traveling in Europe . It’s a destination I love and never get tired of exploring.

This guide will give you an overview of Europe and the tips and tricks you need to start planning your trip. I’ve also written extensive travel guides to each country on the continent (linked below in this post) so you can get more in-depth information for your specific itinerary too!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Europe

Click Here for Country Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in europe.

1. Tour the Greek Islands

These islands are the mecca of summer beach fun and each is unique in its own great way. There’s Ios (beach party central with archeological ruins and awesome boat tours); Kos (ancient ruins and nature); Crete (Bronze Age ruins of Knossos, hiking, beaches, and wine), Santorini (iconic blue water, white buildings, and local wineries); Mykonos , (the upscale party island with beautiful beaches, villages, and sunsets), Naxos (best island in the Cyclades). Plus, Milos, Corfu, Lemnos, Zakynthos, and so many more! With hundreds of islands in the country, you can always find what you are looking for!

2. Ride the rails

Europe is famous for its international rail system. Rail passes like the Eurail Pass have been around forever and still make it very easy to get from country to country on a relatively small budget (and with lots of flexibility). Europe has some of the fastest trains in the world that travel up to an incredible 217 mph (350 kph). The whole continent is connected by trains and there’s a growing push for even more connections and long-distance, high-speed trains in order to reduce flying and help combat climate change. There’s nothing more quintessential than riding the trains in Europe and I encourage you to take as many trains as possible. It’s one of the best ways to see the continent.

3. Get lost in Paris

The “City of Lights” is everything people say it is. I fell in love with it the first time I stepped foot in Paris . The city is just magical. You have a ton of museums, cafes, jazz clubs, famous art, and beautiful architecture. I love just strolling around the streets of the Quartier Latin (Latin Quarter) or Montmartre neighborhood as it makes for a breathtaking day. Another one of my favorite things to do here is just sit in the Jardin des Champs-Élysées park and picnic like the Parisians. For something a bit different, check out the famous Catacombs and Paris Sewer Museum. With so much to offer in the way of culture, history, and gastronomy, it would take years to see everything here but you can still get a good feel of the city in a few days.

4. Go city hopping

There are so many amazing cities in Europe that we’d need a top 100 to list them all. Here are some of my personal favorites and must-see cities: London is rich in history, culture, and the famous Big Ben clock; Edinburgh is a vibrant medieval city with cozy pubs and a famous castle with a huge New Year’s Eve Party; Amsterdam has cozy coffee shops and canopied tree-covered canals; Berlin has a wild party scene, street art, and the Berlin Wall; Barcelona has tapas, beach, and unique Gaudi architecture; coastal Lisbon has colorful tiles, old tramcars, cobblestone streets and plenty of fresh seafood; Prague has a beautiful intact Old Town, incredible architecture and eclectic bars; Tallinn Estonia has beautiful medieval buildings with colorful roofs. Florence  is a mecca for Italian Renaissance architecture, art history, and gelato; Stockholm mixes medieval architecture and modern art and design. Crisscross the continent, take in the culture, and enjoy all the historic cities!

5. Hit the Alps

Whether you go skiing in the winter or hiking in the summer, the Alps hold some of the most breathtaking views in all the world. You don’t even need to be an expert hiker because there are mountain trails for all levels and crystal-clear Alpine lakes. Check out the spectacular Eibsee trail loop in Bavaria at the foot of Die Zugspitze, Germany’s tallest mountain, for the clearest, multi-colored, sparkling lake you’ve ever seen. Or the Männlichen Kleine Scheidegg Panorama trail in Switzerland’s stunning green and snow-capped Alps. Or visit Italy’s Dolomites in South Tyrol for the scenic Seceda trail. The Alps have trails for every fitness level and in every season.

Other Things to See and Do in Europe

1. tour amsterdam.

I love Amsterdam so much that I lived here for a short period of time in 2006. Here cobblestone and brick streets weave around lovely canals as people ride their bikes to and fro. My favorite things to enjoy here are Amsterdam’s vibrant art and music scene and there are also a ton of interesting museums here like the Anne Frank House, FOAM, the history museum, and the hemp museum. Be sure you get out of the center into Jordaan and Oost with their wonderful outdoor cafes and fewer tourists. Also, a visit to Amsterdam wouldn’t be complete without a canal cruise to visit the many islands and there are many to choose from that include snacks and drinks, sunset cruises, live guided tours, and more.

2. Hang out in Barcelona

Barcelona is a city that goes 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It truly could give NYC a run for the “city that never sleeps” title. Be prepared for late-night dinners and parties until dawn. Besides a great food and nightlife scene, there is a wonderful beach, tons of Gaudi architecture (including the fairytale-like Parc Güell, as well as the iconic Sagrada Familia , which has been under construction for over 100 years!), incredible food tours, one of the best history museums in the country, and lots of outdoor spaces. What I love about Barcelona is that when you’re ready to chill, you can wander around Parc de la Ciutadella and marvel at the majestic fountains, plant life, and buildings created from an ornate military fortress.

3. Visit Berlin

Hip and trendy Berlin is an energetic destination. It is one of Europe’s most affordable capital cities, with a vibrant music and art scene and a growing foodie movement. Be sure to spend some time learning about the city’s darker history via the many excellent museums, memorials, and landmarks. The East Side Gallery, a section of the Berlin Wall that’s now painted with murals, and the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe are two especially powerful reminders of Germany’s past. For all periods of German history, don’t miss the Deutsches Historisches Museum (German Historical Museum) – it’s one of the best history museums in the world. Once you’ve had your fill of history, relax in Berlin’s many green spaces, from Tempelhof Field, the site of a former airfield and popular local hangout spot, to Tiergarten, a tree-covered former hunting ground for 17th-century aristocrats.

4. Drink beer at Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest is a must for anyone going to Germany at the end of September. While not a budget option since beers now cost 15 € a maß, I love the energy and friendly camaraderie this event inspires. For two weeks, millions of people from all over the world gather for lots of beer, excitement, music, and wild fun. Watching thousands of people sing together, raising quart-sized beer mugs for endless toasts, and enjoying the general party atmosphere makes you feel good about the world. (Or maybe that’s just the beer?) Just be sure to book your accommodation well in advance and be prepared to pay top prices for them. If you don’t have an outfit, don’t worry, there are plenty of shops even at the main train station where you can buy a Bavarian dirndl dress and men’s lederhosen.

5. Experience London

Get a taste of English culture in diverse London . The museums here are some of the best in the world (most are free) and include the Tate, the British Museum, the City Museum, the National Gallery, the Historical Museum. There’s no shortage of iconic sights here as well, with Big Ben, the House of Parliament, the London Eye, the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, and of course, Buckingham Palace. I love London’s diversity because of the countless international eateries with great food and wonderful pub culture, perfect for after a long day seeing the sights. Head to Brick Lane on the weekends for some amazing food and craft markets. I prefer Paris to London, but there is something sophisticated and fun about London. Just watch those pints — London is not a cheap destination!

6. Get outdoors in Scandinavia

My favorite region in Europe is Scandinavia. The quality of life here is high, the people are beautiful and friendly, and the cities are clean and historic. Cycling the cities, taking canal tours, hiking the vast forested areas, archipelago hopping, enjoying fika (a Swedish coffee break), and warming up in saunas are just a few of the popular activities that await you here. True, this area of Europe is not cheap, but there are plenty of ways to reduce your expenses. Don’t let the high prices scare you away. Highlights for me include Copenhagen , Stockholm , Gotland, Norway’s fjords, and Lapland in Finland .

7. Get enchanted in Prague

Prague has an amazing history and is one of the most beautiful and picturesque cities I’ve ever seen. Highlights include the 9th-century Prague Castle, the magnificent Charles Bridge (built in the 14th century and one of the oldest standing bridges in the world), the 10th-century old square with its iconic astronomical clock, and the winding Jewish Quarter. Even if you only have a few days there don’t miss the free walking tour which is one of my favorites in Europe and the best way to learn about the Old Town and the tragic history of the city that went from thriving Bohemian capital of art, music, and literature to part of the Iron Curtain after WWII. Some of my favorite gems here include the fantastic black light theater shows in 4D and the one-of-a-kind medieval dinner show in an old tavern complete with musicians and jugglers not to mention hearty food and drinks. During the weekends it heaves with people enjoying the bars, cheap beer, and delicious food so try to visit during the week (and in the spring or fall) to beat the crowds.

8. Relax on the French Riviera

Here, you can pretend to live the high life for a little bit. Have fun in the sun, relax on the beach, swim in azure blue water, hobnob with the rich and famous, and sail on (or gaze at) gigantic yachts. As for cities, Nice is nice with its palm-tree-lined promenade, old town, and many art museums. If you want to go see how the rich and famous live, spend an afternoon checking out Cannes to soak up some glamorous vibes on La Croisette where they hold the famous Cannes Film Festival. The kingdom of Monaco with its tiny streets, beautiful buildings, and world-famous casino is just a skip away too.

9. Enjoy the great outdoors in Interlaken

Located in the beautiful mountains of Switzerland, Interlaken is a gorgeous place to unwind with fantastic hiking, delicious hot chocolate, and plenty of outdoor sports. The area is full of natural attractions to explore, including the St. Beatus Caves (complete with a legendary dragon), the cascading 500-meter-high (1,640 feet) Giessbach Waterfalls, the Jungfraujoch mountain railway (which leads to the highest train station on the continent), and a plethora of lakes (hence the town’s name). It’s a good alternative to all the cities and museums. Interlaken is also a popular party destination for backpackers and other young travelers. By far, my favorite scenic and visually stunning trail was the Oberberghorn panoramic hike, where you can wander the green mountain ridge ogling the amazing views and the turquoise-blue Brienzersee.

10. Experience history in Rome

In this thriving historical city, you can’t walk two feet without stumbling over a ruin, making Rome a history buff’s dream. Its tiny streets are perfect for wandering as you explore the Colosseum, see the Forum and Palatine Hill, visit the Pantheon, spend time in Vatican City, admire the Spanish Steps, and toss coins into the famous Trevi Fountain. The skip-the-line tickets can definitely be worth it so you don’t waste time waiting outside attractions. Rome also has amazing food (it’s Italy, after all) and nightlife. Visit the Trastevere area for a taste of “local” Rome and chill bars. It’s my favorite area in the city because you feel like you’re in a small village in the middle of a big city.

11. Hike around the Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is my favorite part of Italy. These five beautiful cliffside towns are perched near warm waters and beautiful olive and grape groves. There are wondrous and strenuous hikes in these hills; for a real challenge, take trail #8. Or just walk the coastline for something less difficult. Many activities here revolve around the coastline: kayaking, swimming, having a beach picnic or visiting the Technical Naval Museum. If you happen to be here in December or January, don’t miss the Nativity Manarola, the world’s biggest lighted nativity scene.

12. Tour Krakow

Krakow looks like it stepped out of a medieval postcard. It’s a hip, trendy, and youthful city that’s the center of education in Poland, meaning there are a lot of university students here. Most travelers come to party here (the vodka is cheap) but try to enjoy the city’s history and food besides just the bars. Walk the Royal Road through the Old Town to the 13th-century Wawel Castle, tour Schindler’s Factory (where Schindler saved over 1,200 Jews during World War II), and visit the sobering Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp. You can also take a fascinating day trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Wieliczka Salt Mine, a 13th-century mine with cavernous chambers, statues, chapels, chandeliers, and cathedrals all carved out of salt.

13. Visit the ruin bars in Budapest

The coolest nightlife in all of Europe is found in Budapest . Built in abandoned buildings, ruin bars feature funky art installations, repurposed furniture, and quirky decor. They are amazing, fun, and great places to meet locals, as people of all ages flock here. Open since 2001, Szimpla Kert is the original ruin bar and one of my favorites, along with Instant-Fogas Complex, which takes up an entire building and is actually many different bars in one. Don’t skip the ruin bars — they’re one of the most unique things about the city!

14. Explore Cornwall

The best part of England is outside London, yet unfortunately, not a lot of travelers leave London. Head west to the area of Cornwall for cheaper prices, welcoming locals, natural beauty, great hiking, rolling hills, plenty of medieval castles, and picturesque small towns. If you like biking, the Camel Trail from Bodmin to Padstow is worth the trip and you even pass by a local vineyard. It’s an easy way to spend a day (and it’s pretty flat so it’s not too hard to do.) Plus, I had the best fish and chips in Cornwall! Overall, it’s what you think of as “traditional England.”

15. Walk the Camino

El Camino de Santiago (The Way of Saint James) is an ancient pilgrimage route that stretches from France all the way across northern Spain. It is a 500 mile (800 km) trail that winds through incredible terrain, ending in Santiago de Compostela at the cathedral where St. James is supposedly buried. As a pilgrim, you get a “pilgrim’s passport” which allows you to stay in affordable pilgrim-only hostels, making this a surprisingly budget-friendly adventure. While it usually takes over a month to complete, you can just walk a section if you don’t have the time. To receive a “Compostela” (certificate of completion), you just need to walk the last 62 miles (100 km), which generally takes 4-5 days.

16. Throw tomatoes during La Tomatina

By far my favorite festival, the largest food fight in the world happens during the last Wednesday of August in Bunol, Spain. What started in 1945 as a local brawl has turned into a massive event drawing tens of thousands of people from all over the world. For about an hour, everyone throws tomatoes at each other, leaving streets ankle-deep in tomato juice. Afterward, everyone walks down to the river, cleans off, and then heads to the town square for sangria and music.

17. Find Dracula in Romania

Not a lot of people visit Romania but this underrated country in Eastern Europe has undiscovered yet picturesque medieval towns like Brasov (home to “Dracula’s castle”), Sighisoara, and Sibiu; gorgeous beaches on the Black Sea; and incredible hiking in the Fagaras Mountains — all at dirt-cheap prices. Other major sights include frescoed Byzantine monasteries, the steepled wooden churches of Transylvania, the hip university town Cluj-Napoca, the post-communist capital of Bucharest, and the Danube Delta, a huge nature reserve.

18. Drink whisky in Islay

Whisky has a long history on Islay , an island off Scotland’s west coast. It’s been made there since the 16th-century — first in backyards and then, starting in the 19th-century, in large distilleries. Over the years, whisky from the island came to be considered a specialty and was used to flavor a lot of other blends on the mainland. There are currently nine working distilleries on the island, all located along the island’s shores, with Laphroaig, Ardbeg, and Lagavulin being the most famous. Most distilleries here make single-malt Scotch, meaning that only one type of grain (barley) is used. My visit here was amazing and, even if you don’t like whisky, there are tons of good hikes and walks throughout this magnificent island.

19. Explore Iceland

Iceland is a magical country with majestic waterfalls, hidden hot springs around every corner, and sweeping vistas unlike anywhere else in the world. After my first visit, the country quickly became one of my favorite countries. With whale watching in the summer, the northern lights in the winter, and geothermal baths for soaking in year-round, there really is no bad time to visit! While Iceland’s main draw is the epic natural landscapes, it’s worth spending a couple of days in Reykjavik with its café culture, artsy feel, and brightly colored wooden row houses.

20. Sail the Croatian coast

With calm winds, short distances, a coastline littered with over 1,000 islands, and countless historical sites, Croatia is one of the world’s best sailing destinations. If you can, go during the shoulder season when you can find some great deals. Plan to stay at least a couple of days on one of the islands, with the most popular being Brac, Hvar, Krk, Cres, and Lošinj. However, don’t be afraid to get off the beaten path and explore some of the lesser-known islands such as Silba, Vis, and Lastovo. If you want to splash out and spend a week partying on a yacht, check out The Yacht Week, which hosts week-long parties, complete with DJs, from May-September. You can book a full boat to share with friends or just a cabin if you’re traveling solo. Prices start at 5,250 HRK per person and go up to 9,300 HRK.

21. Explore the Balkans

While the Balkans have become more popular with backpackers in recent years, it’s still largely overlooked by most budget travelers, despite being an extremely budget-friendly region. The Balkan peninsula is home to great (and again, overlooked) wine, beautiful medieval towns like Kotor and Mostar, stunning mountainous landscapes, beautiful pebble beaches, coffee culture, fresh, hearty yet inexpensive food, and museums covering the area’s history, including the most recent turbulent events of the early 1990s. I especially loved my time in Albania . Don’t miss the beautiful beaches in Ksamil, nicknamed the “Maldives of Europe’ as well as the mountain village of Gjirokastër, which was occupied by Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans. The Balkans have so much to offer for every budget and every country has its unique cultural flavor.

22. Take a wine tour in the Loire Valley

Located in central France, the picturesque Loire Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site and stretches 280 kilometers (174 miles) along the Loire River. One of the major wine-producing regions of France, the area is home to some of the best wines in the world, with over 1,000 vineyards open to the public. Even those who don’t drink wine will enjoy the beautiful small towns, great food, and the region’s over 300 impressive chateaux. I loved the medieval Chenonceau Castle and Chateau Villandry and the small villages like Saint-Florent-le-Vieil. Spring and Autumn are my favorite times to visit because you can go biking and do outdoor activities when it’s not too hot and there are fewer people. It’s an area not to be missed.

23. See Fado in Portugal

Fado is an important musical tradition in Portugal , originating in Lisbon and stretching back some 200 years. The word “fado” likely stems from the Latin word for fate, and it’s very haunting, poetic, and emotional music. Most of the songs follow themes of loss and mourning, and the music was popular with the working class (especially sailors). Performances normally take place in restaurants during dinner. In Lisbon, head to Clube de Fado, Tasca do Chico, Parreirinha de Alfama, or Senhor Vinho.

24. Tour green Slovenia

Slovenia is one of Europe’s least-visited destinations, which is mind-blowing to me because it’s an amazing place to visit. Slovenia offers all the beauty of Western Europe but at a fraction of the cost and with a fraction of the crowds. Perfect for outdoor adventure lovers, Slovenia offers rugged mountains, untouched landscapes, fantastic ski resorts, plentiful wine, sprawling cave systems, incredible food, and postcard-perfect lakes, such as the famous Lake Bled with its castle on an island. I loved Piran, Slovenia’s often overlooked coastal Venetian-style harbor town that was actually founded 3000 years ago. Stroll around its beautiful windy cobble-stoned streets, beautiful plazas, and take advantage of the many affordable restaurants right on the water. Make sure to also spend a few days in the country’s capital, Ljubljana, known as one of the continent’s greenest and most livable cities. Take a river cruise to see the city and enjoy the friendliness of the locals.

  For more information on specific countries in Europe, check out the guides below:

• Albania Travel Guide
• Austria Travel Guide
• Belgium Travel Guide
• Belarus Travel Guide
• Bosnia & Herzegovina Travel Guide
• Bulgaria Travel Guide
• Czechia Travel Guide
• Croatia Travel Guide
• Denmark Travel Guide
• England Travel Guide
• Estonia Travel Guide
• Finland Travel Guide
• France Travel Guide
• Germany Travel Guide
• Greece Travel Guide
• Hungary Travel Guide
• Iceland Travel Guide
• Ireland Travel Guide
• Italy Travel Guide
• Latvia Travel Guide
• Lithuania Travel Guide
• Malta Travel Guide
• Moldova Travel Guide
• Montenegro Travel Guide
• Netherlands Travel Guide
• Norway Travel Guide
• Portugal Travel Guide
• Poland Travel Guide
• Romania Travel Guide
• Scotland Travel Guide
• Slovakia Travel Guide
• Slovenia Travel Guide
• Spain Travel Guide
• Sweden Travel Guide
• Switzerland Travel Guide
• Ukraine Travel Guide

Europe Travel Costs

Accommodation – Accommodation prices vary greatly by region. In Western Europe, hostel dorm rooms cost between 25-45 EUR per night, depending on the room’s size and the popularity of the hostel. I stayed in a 6-bed dorm in Berlin for 20 EUR, while the same one would have cost me around 45 EUR in Paris. A room in Paris costs on the higher end and a room in cheaper Athens costs on the lower end.

In Eastern Europe, hostel dorm rooms cost between 10-15 EUR per night depending on the size of the dorm room and the popularity of the hostel. The further east you go, the cheaper it gets. Expect to pay around 30-60 EUR per night for a private room that sleeps two.

In Scandinavia, hostel dorm beds cost around 25-45 EUR, while private rooms are 65-80 EUR. Budget hotels start around 85 EUR.

Most accommodations offer free linens, free Wi-Fi, and a lot offer free breakfast, but it’s important to check specific websites for exact amenities.

Campsites cost between 10-15 EUR per night for a basic plot for two without electricity.

Food – Food traditions in Europe run deep, stretching back centuries to become integral parts of each country’s culture. From baguettes in France to tapas in Spain, from hearty Eastern European stews and goulash to the fresh vegetables and olive oils of the Mediterranean, European cuisine varies as much as the countries themselves. Food prices differ greatly across the continent, so check individual country guides for specifics.

But no matter where you are, even in the more expensive countries, finding places to eat within your budget is easier than you might think. Throughout Western Europe, you can find small shops, street food stalls, or food trucks where you can get sandwiches, gyros, kebabs, slices of pizza, or sausages for between 3-7 EUR. These shops are most often found in train stations, bus stations, and main pedestrian areas, and offer cheap food alternatives that can have you eating on 12-17 EUR per day. Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 7-10 EUR for a combo meal.

Turkish, Middle Eastern, and Vietnamese eateries abound in Germany, while Indian food is incredible and everywhere in the United Kingdom. Meals at these restaurants usually cost between 8-12 EUR.

Restaurant meals in casual, traditional eateries generally cost around 13-25 EUR for a main dish and drink. Food is much cheaper in the east than in the west, and in the west, northern regions like Scandinavia and the UK are more expensive than southern countries like Spain, Portugal, and Italy.

In Eastern Europe, even if you are eating out for all your meals, you can still get by on a food budget of as little as 15 EUR per day.

For drinks, a pint of beer is 2-5 EUR, a glass of wine is 2-7 EUR, a cappuccino is 2-5 EUR, and cocktails range from 6-14 EUR.

If you eat out, do so at lunch and get the prix-fixe menu (two-course or three-course set menu). Restaurants offer this set menu during lunch, and with prices between 10-20 EUR, it’s a way better deal than the regular dinner menu. You can also get affordable lunches at outdoor markets. So many European cities have huge fresh food markets throughout town.

You can cook your own food for around 45-65 EUR per week. This gets you basic staples like rice, pasta, seasonal produce, bread, and some meat. You can save money by shopping at discount supermarkets like Profi, Lidl, Aldi, and Penny Market.

If you want to save big money on meals, head to one of the markets, pick up some cheese, wine, bread, meats, or anything else, and go to the park for a picnic. (Or grab a sandwich for later!) You’ll find the locals doing the same thing, and it’s one of the cheaper ways to get a true taste of local food.

Backpacking Europe Suggested Budgets

Prices for travel in Europe vary greatly depending on how far north, east, south, or west you travel. If you stick to the budget accommodations, food, and tours listed here and use all my tips on saving money, you need about 65-110 EUR per day in Western Europe, 40-50 EUR in Eastern Europe, and about 85-130 EUR in Scandinavia.

Those numbers reflect a traveler who stays in hostels, cooks some meals and eats out cheaply, enjoys a few drinks, and sticks to free and cheap activities like hiking, walking tours, and enjoying nature. This is your typical backpacker budget. You aren’t going to have a fancy time, but you aren’t going to want for anything either.

However, by getting tourist cards and rail passes, avoiding flights, occasionally Couchsurfing or camping, cooking all your meals, and not drinking, you can travel a lot cheaper. On this budget, you could do Western Europe on 35-45 EUR per day, Eastern Europe on 20-25 EUR, and Scandinavia on 50-65 EUR. That would require you to take a train or a bus or hitchhike everywhere, skip most museums, and limit how often you go out.

Generally, the suggested daily budget for Europe is 80-120 EUR. You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need to budget daily. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Europe Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Individual country guides have more specific information on how to save money in them but here are some general tips on cutting your costs while you explore Europe:

• Picnic – This continent has a lot of little shops where you can buy pre-made sandwiches or ingredients to make your own. Many supermarkets have delis as well where you can get food to go. Buy some food, eat outside, and watch the city and its people go by. It’s a much more enjoyable and cheaper way to eat.
• Eat local and cheap – Not into picnicking? Eat at local sandwich shops, pizza parlors, Maoz, Wok to Walks, and outdoor street vendors. Avoiding restaurants and eating at a lot of the local “grab n’ go” places gives you a taste of the local cuisine at a much cheaper price. If you’re really on a budget, use your creative cooking skills to prepare meals at the hostel as well.
• Stay with a local – Hostels can add up really quickly. If you don’t have any friends with whom you can stay, consider using Couchsurfing , which connects you with locals who let you stay with them for free. Plus, they tend to also have meetups to meet other locals and travelers. It’s a great way to save on accommodation and meet a local who can share their insider tips and advice.
• Camp in a garden – A very good camping service specific to Europe is Campspace , which allows you to pitch a tent in someone’s backyard for free or for a small fee (around 10-20 EUR). All of the garden owners have profiles that tell you what services and facilities they offer. Also, many countries allow wild camping (like Sweden), which can save you a fortune if you have a tent.
• Take the bus – Budget bus companies like Flixbus can take you across the continent for cheap. I personally feel it’s best for day travel as sitting up for an overnight bus isn’t really ideal for sleeping. It isn’t glamorous, but with tickets starting at 5 EUR, you really can’t complain!
• Get a Rail Pass – Eurail Passes have saved me hundreds of dollars. If you are traveling far distances and through many countries, they are a great deal.
• Take the free city tours – One of the great things about Europe is that you can find free walking tours in all the major cities. They can be a great way to see the city attractions, take in some history, and learn your bearings without spending any money. Just make sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Plan accordingly – Plan your trip around Europe so you avoid doubling back. Transportation is a big expense so proper planning can save you a lot of money (and time). Go in a straight line or a loop. Booking your accommodation ahead helps you save as well since cheap, good places unsurprisingly get reserved first. One thing I’ve learned is that waiting until the last minute means you get stuck with expensive places or cheap places no one wants.
• Fly cheap – If you know where you are going and a train won’t do, try to book flights early. You can often get round trip fares for as little as 5 EUR from many of the European discount airlines like Ryanair or Wizz. Many capital cities have smaller airports farther from the city with ‘inconvenient’ times but cheaper fares. Keep in mind you might need to factor in an early morning Uber or taxi if the busses aren’t running and you have an early flight!
• Drink less – Those 5 EUR beers add up. Hit happy hours or pick and choose when you party. Hostel bars are a good place to get cheap drinks or buy your alcohol at the supermarket. Plus, in Europe, it’s legal to drink outside in parks, plazas, by the lakes or rivers. You’ll find you can save a lot of money by not going to bars and clubs. Partying your way across the continent will destroy your bank balance in no time.
• Get a city tourist card – Many local tourism offices sell a tourism card for all their attractions, tours, and restaurants. This card gives you free entry and substantial discounts on all the attractions and tours in a city, free local public transportation (a huge plus), and discounts at a few restaurants and shopping malls. They save a ton of money. If you plan on doing a lot of sightseeing, get one of these cards.
• Rideshare – If you’re flexible in your schedule, use the ridesharing service BlaBlaCar to catch rides with locals between cities (or countries) by paying a small fee. It’s like Airbnb but for rides. I used this service in Switzerland and, not only did I save a lot of money, but I got to meet interesting people and learn about local culture and life. Drivers are verified and it’s perfectly safe, though sometimes rides cancel at the last minute (which is why you need to be flexible). Check their ratings first and try to use rides where the person has done many trips.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water is safe to drink in most of Europe, so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.
• Get a HostelPass – HostelPass is a discount membership for hostels in Europe. Members get 10-20% off select hostels around Europe, as well as perks like free breakfast or free drinks. There are discounts on tours and activities too. It’s a great way to save money if you’re bouncing around Europe as they have hostels in 18 countries around the continent.

Where to Stay in Europe

Europe has a ton of budget accommodation options. The individual country and city guides have tons of recommendations but here’s a short list of some of my favorite budget hostels and hotels around Europe:

• The Flying Pig (Amsterdam, The Netherlands)
• Hotel 54 (Barcelona, Spain)
• Generator Hostel (Copenhagen, Denmark)
• Harcourt Hotel (Dublin, Ireland)
• Castle Rock (Edinburgh, Scotland)
• Ios Palm Pansion (Ios, Greece)
• Greg and Tom’s Party Hostel (Krakow, Poland)
• Largo da Sé Guest House (Lisbon, Portugal)
• Sophie’s Hostel (Prague, Czech Republic)
• The Yellow (Rome, Italy)
• City Backpackers (Stockholm, Sweden)

How to Get Around Europe

Public transportation – Transportation around most European cities is by tram, subway, or bus. Prices are typically around 2 EUR for a one-way ticket in Western Europe and closer to 1 EUR in Eastern Europe. Most large cities also have day passes available that offer unlimited public transportation. These passes are usually 5-12 EUR per day.

In large cities with international airports, there is usually a bus or train available that ferries travelers from the downtown core to the airport. Expect to pay around 5-15 EUR to get to/from the airport.

Bus – Buses are not quite as comfortable as Europe’s trains, although certain lines do have great amenities (like roomy seats and Wi-Fi). While buses are not the most efficient way to travel around the continent, they’re certainly dependable, reliable, and cheap. You can find last-minute rides for as little as 5 EUR. A route from Berlin to Munich is about 25 EUR, while Paris to Bordeaux can be as low as 10 EUR. Longer routes, like Amsterdam to Copenhagen, start at around 47 EUR.

Each country has its own national bus service, but some lines also take you long distances internationally. Megabus and Flixbus (which now owns Eurolines) are the most popular companies.

Train – Train travel is a great way to see Europe. Intercity train prices vary wildly from country to country, depending on whether you take the slow train or a high-speed train and how far in advance you book. For example, a high-speed train from Berlin to Munich costs around 38-60 EUR, Bordeaux to Paris is about 50-85 EUR, and Madrid to Barcelona ranges from 45-85 EUR. Non-high-speed trains and other intercity lines are a lot cheaper, generally costing about 40-50% of the price of high-speed trains. Eastern Europe inter-country trains usually cost between 45-100 EUR when the ticket is booked last minute. Short train rides of 2-3 hours within countries cost about 27 EUR.

You may also want to consider getting a Eurail Pass , which allows travelers to explore Europe by providing a set number of stops in a specific time period. These passes are continent-wide, country-specific, or regional. It can potentially save you hundreds of dollars.

Ridesharing/Car sharing – If your schedule is flexible, use a ridesharing service and catch rides with locals between cities (or countries). Drivers are verified and it’s perfectly safe. BlaBlaCar is the most popular.

If you’d rather rent a car yourself and find passengers to share a ride with, use Discover Cars to find the best car rental prices.

Flying – Budget airlines are so prolific that competition helps keep fares low. You can often find tickets where the fare is just 5 EUR round-trip! Companies like EasyJet, Ryanair, Wizz, and Vueling offer mind-blowingly cheap flights throughout Europe. Book at least a month early to scoop up great deals.

Make sure that the airport they fly into isn’t too far out of your way (transportation from the secondary airport sometimes negates the savings from using the budget airline itself).

Keep in mind that you’ll have to pay to check your baggage on these cheap flights. It costs about 25-39 EUR for one checked bag. If you wait to pay for your luggage at the gate, you end up paying almost double. Travel carry-on only to avoid this added cost.

Hitchhiking – Hitchhiking in Europe is very safe, but it’s not for everyone. Hitching is quite common around the continent and I’ve met a number of travelers who have done it (I, myself, traveled this way in Bulgaria and Iceland). Some countries are very supportive (Romania, Iceland, Germany) while others may be a bit more time-consuming (Italy, Spain). HitchWiki is the best website for hitchhiking info.

Here are my suggested articles for how to get around Europe:

• 7 Cheap Ways to Travel Across Europe
• Are Eurail Passes a Giant Scam or Do They Save You Money?
• The Ultimate Guide to Finding Cheap Flights

When to Go to Europe

There’s no wrong time to visit Europe. Peak season is summer, when Europe gets crowded and August is the time most European families are at the beach so everything becomes more crowded and expensive. But the overall atmosphere and weather are great during this time, so it’s still worth visiting during peak season (just book your accommodation in advance — especially in August). Keep in mind it’s much hotter in summer so if you like AC, be sure to check that your hostel or hotel has it before you book. You can expect the most crowds in Western Europe. For this reason, I feel summer is a great time to visit the Balkans and the Baltics because many people head to the beaches in Spain, France, Italy, Croatia, and Greece.

Shoulder season is spring and fall (April-May and September-October). It’s still warm during this time but there aren’t as many crowds and prices are cheaper. This is my favorite time to visit hotspot places like Spain, Croatia and Greece, where it’s still hot enough to swim in the sea but you have way more room on the beach. It’s also a good time to go hiking in the Alps in Germany, northern Italy, Slovenia and Switzerland because it’s cooler during the day so you’re much less sweaty on the mountain without shade. The weather is good, the crowds are smaller, and the prices lower.

Winter is from November to February but in much of Central Europe, it’s wet and cold until March or April. It gets cold, even as far south as it gets (like Greece). On the other hand, the Christmas season has Christmas markets and festivals galore! Even if it’s cold, this is a cultural tradition you can’t miss and why I love Europe in December. There is hot mulled wine, sweets, and plenty of hot snacks, which vary by country. One of my favorites is Prague because the Old Town Square is lit up with a gigantic tree with aromas of crispy cinnamon pastries and mulled wine. Berlin takes their Christmas markets very seriously, so there are around 80 different markets with special themes.

Winter is fantastic in Europe for skiing and snowboarding but it doesn’t have to break the bank if you plan carefully. While Switzerland and France are probably the most famous, they are also expensive, but there are plenty of budget winter options.

How to Stay Safe in Europe

Europe is very safe for backpacking and solo traveling, even if you’re traveling solo, and even as a solo female traveler. Violent crimes against tourists are very rare. In fact, some of the safest countries in the world are in Europe. (I wrote a whole article about how Europe is safe to visit right now .)

That said, there are scams and petty crimes you should watch out for, especially around popular tourist landmarks. The most important thing to be aware of is pickpockets in crowds and on public transportation. Zip your bags and don’t put your mobile phone in a jacket pocket where someone could quickly take it. This should be obvious but don’t flash your money to let everyone know you have a huge wad of cash.

When choosing a hostel, look for ones with lockers. It’s always a good idea to carry around a padlock or combination lock. Most hostels are safe and travelers respect each other and I’ve rarely seen things happen to people’s valuables. Nevertheless, I always think that prevention is better.

As anywhere, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). When at the bar, always keep an eye on your drink. Avoid walking home alone at night if you’re intoxicated.

For female travelers in particular, it’s always a good idea to have a bit of extra money on you just in case you need to take an Uber or taxi back by yourself so you don’t take unnecessary risks to save money. If you’re using apps to date people while traveling, please use common sense and meet in public places. Since I’m not a female traveler, please check out the numerous female bloggers who have first hand knowledge of this.

If you’re worried about scams, you can read about common travel scams to avoid here.

If you rent a vehicle, don’t leave any valuables in it overnight. Break-ins are rare, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Be aware that the UK drives on the left and that most rental cars in Europe will have manual transmissions unless you request otherwise.

When hiking, always bring water, sunscreen, and bandaids or foot plasters. There is nothing worse than being halfway up the mountain with a blister and nothing you can do about it!

Likewise, when at the coast, don’t forget not only to wear sunscreen! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen people get burnt to a crisp the first day. Be sure to check the weather before you depart and dress accordingly.

If you do experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary to loved ones so they know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Europe Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

GO DEEPER: Nomadic Matt’s In-Depth Budget Guide to Europe!

While I have a lot of free tips on Europe, I also wrote an entire book that goes into great detail on everything you need to plan a trip here on a budget! You’ll get suggested itineraries, budgets, even more ways to save money, my favorite restaurants, prices, practical information (i.e. phone numbers, websites, prices, safety advice, etc etc), and cultural tips.

I’ll give the insider view of Europe that I got from years of traveling and living here! The downloadable guide can be used on your Kindle, iPad, phone, or computer so you can have it with you when you go. Click here to learn more about my book on Europe!

Europe Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more tips for your trip? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Europe travel and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hotels in Florence

The 7 Best Hotels in Madrid

The 6 Best Hotels in Vienna

The Best Walking Tours in Barcelona

How to Be a Digital Nomad in Europe

The Best eSIM for Traveling Europe

Get my best stuff sent straight to you, pin it on pinterest.

• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

Get Daily Travel Tips & Deals!

By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use .

Planning a Trip to Europe: Your 10-Step Guide

Caroline Costello

Caroline Costello's travel accomplishments include surviving a 2 a.m. whitewater rafting excursion in the Canadian wilderness, successfully biking from Dusseldorf to Cologne without a map, and gaining access to a covert pizza speakeasy in New Orleans.

Caroline is an active member of the Society of American Travel Writers (SATW). Her work has appeared on USA Today , the Boston Globe , AOL.com, MSNBC.com, ABC News, TODAY Travel, and CruiseCritic.com, among other publications.

Travel Smarter! Sign up for our free newsletter.

Before you can experience authentic Spanish tapas, piazzas in Rome, or rooftop terraces in Prague, an important to-do list stands between you and your European vacation. The logistics involved in planning a trip to Europe may seem tedious or overwhelming, but the more prepared you are, the greater your chances of a successful trip that lives up to your expectations. That’s why it’s important to do a bang-up job creating an itinerary, arranging transportation, and tackling the brass tacks before you’re off to the Continent.

The following guide explains how to plan a trip to Europe in 10 simple steps—so you can spend less time worrying about your travel arrangements and more time staring at pictures of castles and men in kilts.

1. Get your documents in order.

If you don’t have a passport, it will take at least four to six weeks from the time of application for you to receive one. Expedited services—either through the State Department or an expeditor such as Travel Visa Pro —can trim the process down to a week or so, but it will cost you an additional fee, so it’s best to take care of this well before your trip.

Already have a passport? Check its expiration date. The last thing you need is to find out your passport has expired while you’re in line at airport check-in. Keep in mind that some countries require your passport to be valid for six months beyond your trip dates.

All car rental companies require drivers to have valid licenses in their home country, so you’ll also want to check the expiration date of your license. Some car rental companies also require an international driving permit for European rentals in addition to a valid driver’s license. For U.S. citizens, these can be obtained through the American Auto Association (AAA); in Canada, try the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA).

Depending on length of stay, some destinations require valid visas in addition to passports; obtaining one is a complicated process that can take weeks even after you have been approved—so start early.

2. Establish a budget.

When planning a trip to Europe, establish a budget as early as possible—even before you know your destination, travel dates, or itinerary. Some destinations are generally cheaper than others, but there are ways to save everywhere: travel in the off-season, pick budget accommodations, plan a shorter trip. For example, London is an expensive city, but many travel providers and airlines offer affordable vacation packages to the city, and it’s not hard to find cheap air deals to London, especially during the winter.

Set your budget early on, and you’ll avoid any disappointment that could come from forging a fabulous itinerary, like two weeks in Switzerland during summer, and then discovering you can’t afford it. Travel budget apps such as TrabeePocket ( iOS | Android ) can help you keep track of your expenses once you start making bookings.

The Most Expensive Cities in the World

3. Pick a destination.

Now that you know how much you can spend, where do you want to go? If you’re like many travelers and you have a humongous list of places in Europe you want to visit, this could be tricky.

One strategy is to pick a particular site that’s on your must-see travel list, and plan your vacation around that. Last year I planned a trip to Ireland centered on an excursion to remote Skellig Michael Island , a UNESCO World Heritage site I’d dreamed of visiting. The excursion turned into an unforgettable two-week Emerald Isle road trip.

Another option is to pick someplace timely. Visit countries’ tourism websites and search for seasonal events like festivals or local holidays (which you may want to either avoid or join, depending on how you feel about crowds). Don’t forget to check the weather before you decide on your destination.

4. Create a rough itinerary.

So you want to go to France, eh? Don’t go ahead and buy a roundtrip flight to Paris and a hotel room—at least, not yet. Planning a European vacation takes a lot of prep work. You’ll want to sketch out a day-by-day itinerary of your perfect trip to France before you book a thing. Research sites and cities you really want to explore, and then figure out which ones you have the time and budget to get to.

Check out alternative ways to travel in Europe. If you want to see multiple countries or cities but are on a tight budget, you may want to consider a cruise (exchange rates are naught for U.S. citizens onboard American ships). If you’d rather not do the work of creating your own itinerary, continue booking a group tour with a company such as Intrepid Travel , G Adventures , Trafalgar , or Rick Steves’ Europe .

5. Book your airfare.

Because airfare will probably be the most expensive part of your trip, you’ll want to book it before anything else (car rental, hotel, etc.). This will allow you to be more flexible with your dates, which is a great way to save money on your flight. You can often spend less by flying on international discount airlines like Aer Lingus or Norwegian . Check multiple booking sites , including meta-search sites such as Skyscanner and traditional booking sites such as Expedia , to make sure you’re seeing a wide range of options. You can also set up fare alerts using Airfarewatchdog , SmarterTravel’s sister site, so you’ll be notified when the price of your flight drops.

Consider spicing up your trip with a layover in a different country. Icelandair has a long-running program that allows passengers flying elsewhere in Europe to take a free stopover in Reykjavik for up to seven nights.

Where to Find Premium Airfare Deals on First Class and Business Class

6. Book your accommodations.

It’s time to go back to that rough itinerary you jotted down and fill in some places to sleep. As is the case with pretty much everything you book for your trip, the earlier you make arrangements, the better—especially during summer high season.

Sure, you can just book a room at the local Hilton and be done with it. But do a bit of research and you could discover some funky lodging that’s almost as exciting as the attractions you plan to visit. Keep your eyes open for historic castles, tiny bed and breakfasts, houseboats, eco-friendly hotels, or organic farms. Budget travelers take note: Vacation rentals , homestays, farm stays, and house-swapping are accommodation options that can be shockingly affordable … or even free.

As with airfare, you should shop around on multiple hotel sites to make sure you’re getting the best deal, and read reviews from past guests to see what the experience is like. TripAdvisor , Booking.com , and Hotels.com are a few good places to start.

7. Consider travel insurance.

There are several kinds of travel insurance: trip cancellation insurance, flight cancellation insurance, medical insurance, etc. The best time to buy insurance is right after you put down the major deposits on your trip, whether that entails airfare, a package, or prepaid hotels. Once you know how much money you’ve paid upfront, you can ensure your trip if you so choose. Many airlines and travel providers sell insurance that you can purchase along with your flight or tour package. Always, always read the fine print in your policy and compare it with other travel insurance policies before you make a purchase.

Check your medical insurance coverage to see if you’re covered overseas. If not, you may want to purchase supplemental medical insurance to cover situations like the cost of transportation back home for emergency care.

Reputable travel insurance companies to consider include Allianz Travel and Seven Corners .

Travel Insurance Coverage: 18 Things Your Policy Won’t Cover

8. Book local transportation and day tours.

When in Rome, ride the Metropolitana. Find out how the locals get around the destination to which you’re traveling and act accordingly. You won’t need a car rental in places like bike-friendly Amsterdam or London with its convenient underground Tube, unless you plan to go outside the city.

A car rental is your best bet if you’re traveling to locales that can’t be easily reached by rail or plane (such as the Irish countryside). Be mentally prepared to drive in a foreign country, which can be a frightening experience when faced with incomprehensible traffic signs, narrow streets, or sheep roadblocks.

To get from city to city or country to country, examine your rail options in comparison to routes and prices offered by European discount airlines like easyJet  or Ryanair . Travelers embarking on extensive travel within Europe may save money by purchasing a rail pass from Rail Europe that permits unlimited train travel within a specified region.

Check out Viator to book day tours, especially if you want to take advantage of skip-the-line options.

9. Tackle last-minute logistics.

A few weeks before your departure date is the right time to start taking care of a number of key logistics: money, phone, house-sitter, pet-sitter.

Call your credit card companies to let them know you’ll be traveling abroad. While you’re at it, find out if you’re going to be charged a fee for using your card overseas. Research the locations of ATMs in your destination, especially if you’ll be relying on cash.

Does your cell phone plan allow you to make calls overseas, and if so, how much will it cost you? Many cell phone companies offer temporary international plans that you can purchase for the month you’re traveling. You might also want to consider a mobile hotspot device to keep you connected.

5 Ways to Use Your Phone GPS Without Data

Packing for Europe requires both different items and a different mindset in comparison to some other types of trips. After all, there’s no arguing that Parisians are more stylish than your typical North American tourist. Most of central and western Europe have milder climates throughout the year, but that doesn’t mean you won’t encounter rain or a heatwave. You should pack clothing that’s easy to layer , and always include a packable raincoat or travel umbrella in your suitcase when traveling to Europe. Think about how you’ll be carrying your money —pickpocketing schemes are more common abroad, so it’s important to carry your money and personal belongings securely. When researching your European destination of choice, consider the overall climate and time of year you’ll be traveling. Then, about a week before your trip check out the forecast, mobilize a packing list , and ensure your suitcase is in working condition and meets your airline’s size restrictions.

Pro packing tip: If you’re tight on packing space, invest in a packing cube set . They do wonders, especially if you’re stopping in multiple destinations as they make repacking a breeze.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

You Might Also Like:

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

Top Fares From

Don't see a fare you like? View all flight deals from your city.

Today's top travel deals.

Brought to you by ShermansTravel

Porto to Lisbon: 7-Nt, Small-Group Portugal...

Indus Travels

Luxe, 12-Night Spain, France, Monaco &...

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Ohio: Daily Car Rentals from Cincinnati

Trending on SmarterTravel

29 Expert Tips for Your First—or Any—Trip to Europe

Jessica Spiegel

August 6, 2023

Whether you're a first-time traveler to Europe or a frequent visitor, a foreign place is always a little foreign if you don’t live there. With that in mind, we’ve compiled a list of some tips for traveling in Europe that will help anyone have a better trip—whether it’s your first visit or your hundredth.

>> Planning a trip to Europe? Join Going and get amazing deals like $262 roundtrip nonstop to Paris or $533 to the Greek Islands.

1. don't try to do too much..

Every traveler is different, of course. While some might just want a taster platter of Europe and prefer to travel quickly to several cities, others may prefer lingering longer in just a few places. But this advice applies regardless of your travel style. Whatever you plan to do—whether it’s cramming your itinerary full or taking a slightly more leisurely trip—take your itinerary and categorize every sight or activity as a “must do” and “if there’s time.” Adjusting your expectations about how much you can accomplish will help ensure you don’t end up cranky and unable to appreciate the trip—or running yourself ragged to check off every possible travel box and making yourself sick. 

2. Consider open-jaw flights to save time.  

Standard roundtrip tickets mean you’ll need to circle back to your arrival airport to fly home, which could mean a wasted travel day. Instead, look at your options for open-jaw flights—flying into one city and home from another. They’re often comparable price-wise with simple roundtrip tickets, and sometimes even cheaper.

3. Consider the merits of traveling in the off season or shoulder season .  

Not only is peak season travel almost always more expensive, popular places are far more crowded in the high season. Traveling in the off season or shoulder season means you’re likely to save money and avoid the longest lines at major attractions. The trade-off is bringing a sweater or an umbrella, but for many travelers, the cooler weather is a great trade-off for fewer crowds.

4. Use Rome2Rio to compare transportation options.  

Europe is criss-crossed with train lines, and that used to be the best way to get around the continent. Sometimes, it still is—but not always. We love Rome2Rio for showing us every option for getting around, from driving to flying, with prices and transportation times so we can decide which option makes the most sense for our trip.

5. Focus on getting across the ocean as cheaply as possible, then use budget airlines or ground transportation to get to your final destination.  

You may have seen us mention the “ Greek Islands trick ” a few times. This is basically what it boils down to: if flying directly to the place you really want to go is expensive, look for the cheapest flight to any major hub in Europe. Then, look for flights on budget carriers to your final destination (or see if getting there by train, ferry, bus, or car is more efficient). The latter option requires more logistical planning on your part, but it may save you quite a bit of money.

>> Check out our layover guides for details on short stays and connections across Europe.

6. learn a bit of the local language.  .

No one expects you to be fluent for every vacation you take, but it’s only polite to learn some key phrases in the local tongue—think phrases of politeness (please, thank you, excuse me) and things you might say often as a traveler (how much is this, I would like to order, may I have the check). You’re a guest in someone else’s country, so even though they may switch to English soon after you start a conversation, residents typically appreciate the effort.

7. Don't overpack.  

Although many airlines tend to allow one free checked bag on overseas flights, resist the temptation to bring a lot of “just in case” items. If you’re taking the train, you’re responsible for hauling your bags on and off every car and (possibly) into luggage racks above the seats. And if you’re taking low-cost airlines, there’s often a fee and a strict size and weight limit for checked—and sometimes carry-on—bags. Pack light , and remember you can buy stuff you run out of (like toothpaste) wherever you go.

8. Eat like the locals eat.  

This isn’t just about eating what’s local and in season (though that’s always a good idea). Taking food cues from the locals may mean getting picnic supplies from the weekly market because it’s fresh and cheaper than a restaurant meal. It may mean choosing that little cafe where all the taxi drivers or gondoliers are eating. It may mean eating your biggest meal at lunch and then joining the locals for a few small tapas plates or aperitivo nibbles instead of a big dinner. 

It always means avoiding the “tourist menu,” printed in multiple languages and/or displaying pictures of dishes, since these tend to be overpriced and cannot be relied upon for quality. It’s important to note, however, that smoking remains far more prevalent throughout Europe than it now is in the United States—including in some restaurants. The atmospheric sidewalk tables are often full of smokers, so keep that in mind when choosing a table.

9. Avoid ATM and credit card fees.  

There are a couple fees you’ll run into when using your bank card at ATMs in Europe—there’s the fee for using a bank that’s not yours, and there’s a foreign transaction fee. Not every bank adds both, so check with your bank before you travel. Even if your bank doesn’t charge either of these fees, the bank where you’re withdrawing money in Europe probably will. You’ll pay fewer fees if you withdraw larger sums of money less often during a trip, rather than withdrawing only what you need every couple of days. You’re also apt to pay lower fees if you use an ATM at an actual bank rather than one from a company like Travelex or Euronet. If you have a Charles Schwab debit card, the bank will reimburse you for any foreign ATM fees.

Additionally, check to see what kind of fees your credit card might charge. Some cards charge up to 3% while others, such as the Capital One Venture Rewards Card, and Chase Sapphire Preferred Card don’t charge any fees. 

10. Wear comfortable walking shoes.  

Unless you walk for a good portion of every day in your everyday life, you’re unlikely to be prepared for all the walking you’ll do when you’re on vacation. Few things will ruin a trip quicker than aching feet, so trust us when we say comfortable shoes are your best friends—especially on the uneven cobblestone so prevalent in Europe.

11. Dress like a local.  

While the days when tennis shoes marked you as American are gone (many Europeans wear stylish sneakers daily), looking like you’re an outsider is still a pretty good way of becoming a target for pickpockets and petty thieves. You can make yourself a little less conspicuous by adopting some of the local fashions—for instance, swap the baseball cap and flip flops for a slightly more dressed-up casual look.

12. Familiarize yourself with common travel scams.  

In just about every major city in the world, there are opportunists who’ll try to part you from your money—and while Europe is generally quite safe, there are a few recurring ways people use to try to do just that. There’s no need to be paranoid, but it’s wise to do a quick web search for common travel scams in the cities you plan to visit so that you don’t fall prey to a known hustle. 

13. Know your mobile phone’s international plan before you leave home.  

It’s so hard to imagine getting through the day without the use of our mobile devices, and that feels especially true when traveling. We want to post photos to Instagram, navigate unfamiliar cities, and look up restaurant recommendations. But before you leave home, check in with your mobile provider to find out your international usage options—and how much it will cost to make or receive calls, send or receive texts, and use data. 

Each provider and plan is different, so make sure you get in touch with your provider to see what your plan options are specifically. If it’s expensive, your best option is to keep it in airplane mode with the WiFi turned on so you can connect to WiFi when it’s free but keep your overall bill low. If you have an unlocked phone, you can also look at buying a local SIM card when you arrive. 

14. Alert your bank and credit card companies that you’ll be traveling.  

Banks can be quick to freeze a card when it looks like there’s suspicious activity. And if your card suddenly switches from daily use in Poughkeepsie to daily use in Paris, that sure seems suspicious without context. Make sure you set travel alerts on every card you might use when you’re traveling, telling the bank(s) when and where you’re going.

15. Download useful travel apps.  

While you may not want to use your mobile phone or tablet much away from WiFi (depending on your international plan), there are plenty of super useful apps for traveling in Europe . From translation to transportation booking to conversion to guided city and museum tours, there’s an app for just about everything.

16. Have a jet lag game plan.  

Jet lag is no joke, and while some amount of discombobulation is to be expected when you zip your body across several time zones in a few hours, you can combat the worst effects of jet lag. 

Make sure you’re well-rested and hydrated before you leave home. Skip the caffeine and alcohol on your flight day in favor of lots and lots of water. And when you land, don’t nap—stay awake until the sun sets, getting outside and walking as much as possible.

17. Know the opening hours of the things you want to see.  

You might have a Spain trip all planned, with flights and hotels booked, only to find out the Reina Sofia Museum is closed on Tuesdays, the only day you’re in Madrid. 

Make sure you look at the open days and times of the sights you’d be disappointed to miss before you solidify all your travel plans. Learn about whether shops and restaurants close during the middle of the day, too, which can impact how you structure your sightseeing.

18. Don’t discount the perks of a vacation apartment instead of a hotel.  

Families and small groups traveling together routinely hear that getting a vacation rental instead of a hotel room is a good idea, but vacation rentals can be an excellent option for any traveler—even if you’re only staying a couple nights. Vacation rentals are often more comfortable, offering space to relax besides just sitting on the edge of the bed, and of course having use of a kitchen means you can make your own coffee or refrigerate your picnic supplies. Not only that, depending on the location, an apartment may be cheaper than many of the area hotels.

19. Get tickets to museums and attractions in advance.  

At Europe’s most popular attractions, there is often a long line at the ticket office—or a limited number of tickets per day that sell out well in advance. Learn what museums and other attractions on your itinerary fall into those categories so you can buy tickets before you leave home when possible.

20. Keep your big-ticket item receipts to claim your VAT refund.  

Shopping in Europe means paying taxes on what you buy. If you don’t live in the EU, however, you can get some of those taxes refunded on your way home. The Value-Added Tax (VAT) changes depending on what country you’re in, from 8% to 27% as of this writing, and the minimum amount when a potential VAT refund kicks in varies by country, too. 

If you spend enough at a shop, you should receive a form to fill out in addition to your receipt (you may be asked to prove you’re not local—a passport will do). Bring all of these, the VAT refund forms and the accompanying receipts, to the airport and present them to the customs office for review and to get the documents stamped. You may be able to turn in the stamped forms at the airport before you fly, or you may need to mail them from home. (Note that refunds can take months, and sometimes they don’t come at all. But if you’re a big spender, it’s definitely worth a try.)

21. Learn the local tipping customs. 

When you’re an American accustomed to tipping 20% or more for everything from a beer to a taxi ride to a haircut to a fancy meal, it might be so ingrained that it’s hard to not tip. But, depending on where you go in Europe, tipping may not be the norm—and in some places, people will actively try to give you your tip back. 

In restaurants, a “service fee” or “cover charge” may be included in every bill, which means the tip is built in. Taxi drivers often appreciate exact change, or maybe an extra euro if they’ve been especially helpful with luggage. If you pay for a meal with a credit card, you’ll notice there’s rarely a line for adding a tip. This means if you want to leave a few euro, you’ll need to have cash on hand. Do some research into the tipping rules in the places you’re visiting. One exception to the usual tipping customs in Europe is if you take a guided tour—giving your guide a tip of a few euro per person is a good idea.

22. Don’t assume the waiter forgot about you after dinner.  

Generally speaking, once a party has been seated in a European restaurant, the table is theirs for as long as they want it. Waiters aren’t looking to turn that table over three times in a night, their goal is to give every diner the chance for a leisurely meal without constant interruptions. 

In other words, when you’re done, the waiter won’t come over to ask if you want the check—you’ll probably need to flag them down to get it. This isn’t a snub or a slight. Instead, it’s a sign that they respect your right to hang out at that table with your friends or family until you’re ready to leave.

23. Bring the right electrical converters and adapters.  

Find out what specific plug adapters and electricity converters you need to make sure you don’t fry your gadgets. If you’re traveling to more than one country, a universal converter and adapter kit may be a good idea.

24. Public toilets aren’t always free.  

Sometimes it’s a challenge to find a public toilet in Europe. Restaurants have them, of course, but they’re rarely indicated by big signs (probably to keep non-customers from using them). Museums and train stations have bathrooms, too, but once you’ve found the loo you might run into an unexpected barrier—you have to pay to use it. Sometimes there’s a coin-operated turnstile to get in, and sometimes there’s a bathroom attendant whose job it is to keep the facilities clean and well-stocked. 

Note that in unmonitored toilets, stalls are often lacking in basics like toilet paper. Carry a packet of tissues with you just in case. And whether or not you’re a customer, McDonald’s and Starbucks tend to be good places to stop for an emergency bathroom break if you need one.

25. Know when a rental car is your best transportation method.  

Renting a car for your European trip might sound like it would be too expensive—not to mention that it might seem daunting to drive in a country where you don’t speak the language. However, if you’re traveling with a few people who can all contribute to the cost of the car and fuel (which is more expensive in Europe), it might be more cost effective to drive rather than take the train. 

Not only that, there are some destinations, such as Bavaria or Tuscany, that don’t have extensive train or bus service. In order to visit, you’ll need to drive. Do some research on driving in the countries you’ll be visiting before you go to find out whether you need to get an international driving permit (offered at your local AAA for $20) and what safety gear you must have in the car at all times (the rental company needs to provide it).

>> Get tips for finding the cheapest rental car .

26. don’t feel guilty if you need a dose of home during your trip.  .

For better or worse, companies like McDonald’s and Starbucks are everywhere these days. And while we might want to explore the local cuisine as much as possible, it’s not unusual to pine for a little taste of home now and then. Don’t beat yourself up about it. (In fact, you can learn something about local culture even at McDonald’s, where each country has a unique offering or two on the menu.) 

27. Take guided tours that are tailored to your group’s interests.  

When everyone in your group wants to see a museum or attraction, it makes sense to book a guided tour. Go beyond the one-size-fits-all tours, though, to make sure everyone in your group enjoys it. Traveling with kids? Find a guide that specializes in bringing history to life for youngsters. Bunch of history buffs? Make sure your guide will spend more time on historic details. Art lovers? Tour with an art specialist to get more information than just the basics. There are tours for just about every area of interest, and you’ll get much more out of the experience if you find the ideal one for your group.

28. Choose as centrally-located a hotel as your budget allows.  

After your airline ticket, accommodation is often the next-biggest vacation expenditure. You might be tempted to book a room in a hotel that’s outside the city center just to save money, but sometimes that can backfire. 

When your hotel isn’t in the middle of things, you’ll always need to pay for transportation to and from the sights—not to mention the time you’ll spend in transit. And if your hotel is out of the way, it’s not easy to take a midday break from sightseeing. Don’t blow your budget, but choose centrally-located hotels that you can afford—and keep in mind that many two-star hotels in Europe get their ratings because of small room sizes, not lack of amenities.

>> Get tips for finding great hotel deals .

29. don’t overpay for flights. .

It’s never been easier or cheaper to get to Europe, and there’s no need to pay $600, $800, or $1,000+ to get to the continent. In 2019, the average price of all deals we sent our members for flights to Europe from the US was $472—and we found a lot of deals that were much less. Los Angeles to Rome for $239 roundtrip. NYC to Belgrade for $193 roundtrip. Dallas, Phoenix, San Francisco, and DC to the Greek Islands in the $500s roundtrip. Boston to Barcelona for $177 nonstop. And 100 cities in the US to Austria and Germany in the $200s-$300s roundtrip.

Join Going and we find the cheap flights for you; when we find a great price for a flight departing from your airport, we let you know, and we tell you how to book it directly with the airline or with an online travel agency you know (like Priceline). Our members save an average of $550 per ticket.

Freelance Writer

Published August 6, 2023

Last updated December 21, 2023

Articles you might like

Kentucky: The US State With Caves of Mammoth Proportions

Apr 12, 2024

Snorkeling in Grenada's Molinere Bay Underwater Sculpture Park

Zimbabwe: The Landlocked Country Known as the Jewel of Africa

Apr 11, 2024

Treat your travel to cheap flights

Most deals are 40-90% off normal prices with great itineraries from the best airlines. If it's not an amazing deal, we won't send it. Sign up for free to start getting flight alerts.

Europe Travel Guide

Looking for an in-depth Europe travel guide ?

Then you’re in the right place!

If you love to travel, chances are a trip to Europe is high on your travel bucket list. With a wide variety of different countries and cultures to explore the content of Europe has something for every kind of traveler at any time of year.

Of course, with so many destinations to choose from, planning a trip to Europe can feel overwhelming. You’ll need to do a bit of research and organization to figure out where you want to go and when.

There are plenty of Europe trip planners and tools online, but if you’re looking for in-depth guides to many of Europe’s top destinations, we’ve got you covered.

Many travelers like to explore Europe by choosing one region of the continent and hopping between countries in that area.

Western Europe is a particularly popular region for travelers. It’s home to many top European cities like Paris , London, Amsterdam, and more, so you definitely won’t run out of itinerary ideas.

You’ll find some of the most iconic sites here, from world-famous museums like the Louvre to medieval castles in Switzerland .

And with plenty of train, bus, and plane routes between cities, it’s very easy to get from one destination to the next.

One thing to note about Western Europe, though, is that its popularity makes it more expensive than Eastern Europe. There are plenty of ways to stretch your money in this region, though. Head to our destination pages below to learn how to get the most bang for your buck in Western Europe.

Looking for something a little different?

Consider a trip to Eastern Europe, home to trending destinations like Latvia and Slovenia .

Eastern Europe has so much to offer travelers, from cities that blend old and new to gorgeous mountains perfect for hiking.

And though things are always changing, parts of Eastern Europe are not quite as Westernized as the rest of the continent, so you’ll definitely feel like you’re a world away.

Additionally, Eastern Europe is a great destination for budget travelers, as prices for food, lodging, and transportation are generally lower than in the western half of the continent.

It’s also become a top spot for solo female travel as most countries are very safe and welcoming.

Ready to book?

Keep reading to dive into resources that will help you with planning a trip to Europe.

Note: This ultimate guide to European travel contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

France Travel Tips

Rome travel guide, map of europe.

Use this Europe travel map to begin planning your trip to this incredible country!

Click here for an interactive Google Map version of the above graphic.

Austria Travel Guide

Plan an unforgettable trip to Austria with the following guides!

Solo Travel In Vienna: How To Have An Amazing Trip Traveling Alone

4 Day Vienna Itinerary (With Map!)

Croatia Travel Guide

These Croatia travel tips, destinations, and itinerary suggestions will help you plan the perfect trip!

How To Explore Croatia’s Stunning Krka National Park

Croatia Guide: Exploring Zadar Off-Season (+ Year-Round Travel Tips!)

Croatia Adventure: Learning To Rock Climb In Split

Essential Tips For Traveling Croatia

My Epic Research Fail In Croatia (& What You Can Learn From It)

Going Back in Time On A Bike Tour In Zagreb, Croatia

Czech Republic Travel Guide

Plan the perfect trip to the Czech Republic !

Solo Travel In Prague: How To Have An Amazing Trip On Your Own

Denmark Travel Guide

Have a blast visiting Denmark with the following tips!

Copenhagen Solo Travel: The Ultimate Guide

England Travel Guide

These guides can help you plan the perfect England travel itinerary !

5 Days In England: From London To Carlisle By Train [UK Travel Guide]

13 Secrets To Traveling On A Budget In London, England

Uncovering England: Liverpool Tourist Guide

26 Amazing Hotels In The UK With Private Hot Tubs

50+ Fun Things To Do In London Alone

27 Best Lake District Lodges With Hot Tubs

25 Best Lodges With Hot Tubs In The Cotswolds

France Travel Guide

These France travel tips, destinations, and itinerary suggestions will help you plan the perfect trip!

Paris Travel Guide

Use this Paris city guide section to plan the perfect trip!

Solo Travel In Paris: A Romantic Guide For One

How To Enjoy Paris On A Budget

6 Amazing Apps For Cultural Immersion In Paris, France

Taking In The Best View Of Paris From Sacré-Cœur Basilica

Cheap Travel: Exploring Paris For Less Than €25 Per Day

Lyon Travel Guide

Plan a memorable trip to Lyon with the help of these ultimate guides to the city:

2 Days In Lyon: The Ultimate Itinerary + Tips

Nice Travel Guide

This Nice tourist guide section shares fun things to do in this beautiful city!

3 Stunning Day Trips From Nice, France

France Fun: Exploring Nice Beyond The Promenade

Marseille Travel Guide

Looking for a fun Marseille tourist guide ? The following resources have you covered!

How To Hike Calanques National Park In Marseille, France

Provence Travel Guide

This guide to Provence section will show you the best this region has to offer!

5 Must-Eat Dishes In Provence, France (Beautiful Illustrations Included!)

5 Epic Adventures You Didn’t Know Your Could Have In Provence

An Authentic Calisson Cooking Class In Aix-en-Provence

South Of France Travel Guide

Explore fun things to do in one of the best French holiday destinations ! You can also peruse the above sections on travel in Nice, Marseille, and Provence for bonus South of France trip inspiration.

How To Have An Epic South Of France Road Trip (With Video!)

How To Enjoy Epic Wine, Hiking & Skinny Dipping Near Cannes, France

Is The Verdon Gorge France’s Most Beautiful Attraction?

These 5 Unique Accommodations Will Make You Crave A South of France Getaway

15 Best Beach Clubs On The French Riviera

Important advice for traveling in France !

How Not To Get Treated Rudely By The French

France Solo Travel: The Ultimate Guide

Germany Travel Guide

These Germany travel tips, destinations, and itinerary suggestions will help you plan the perfect trip!

Leipzig: A Must-Have Day Trip From Berlin, Germany

Exploring Germany’s Berlin Wall History, 25 Years After The Fall

10 Amazing Offbeat Things To Do in Germany

How The Berlin Marathon Showed One Traveler That We’re All In This Race Of Life Together

10 Reasons Why Germany Should Be Your Next Trip

10 Tips for Traveling Berlin On A Budget

17 Essential Germany Transportation Tips For Travelers

Greece Travel Guide

These Greece travel tips, destinations, and itinerary suggestions will help you plan the perfect trip!

Solo Travel In Greece: The Ultimate Guide (With Map!)

10 Greek Islands To Visit During Shoulder Season

Drinking Culture: A Sip Of Corfu, Greece

Iceland Travel Guide

These Iceland travel tips, destinations, and itinerary suggestions will help you plan the perfect trip!

The Solo Traveler’s Guide To Iceland Travel In Winter

The Epic Hike Every Solo Traveler To Iceland Must Do

Here is What To Eat In Reykjavik (Beyond Fermented Shark)

19 Awesome Ways To Explore Iceland Beyond The Blue Lagoon

Here Is What Happens When You Snorkel Between Tectonic Plates At Silfra In Iceland

Here Is What Happens When You Explore Iceland’s Golden Circle

Here Is What Happens When You Explore Iceland’s South Coast

Ireland Travel Guide

These Ireland travel tips, destinations, and itinerary suggestions will help you plan the perfect trip!

Dingle, Ireland: The Outdoor Adventure Destination You Shouldn’t Skip

The Ultimate Guide To Solo Travel In Ireland

The Ultimate Guide To Solo Travel In Dublin

4 Days In Dublin: The Perfect Itinerary

Italy Travel Guide

These Italy travel tips, destinations, and itinerary suggestions will help you plan the perfect trip!

Top Italy Destinations

Looking for the best vacation places in Italy ? These travel guides to Italy can help!

Slowing Down In Paradise In Perugia, Italy

Things To Do In Venice, Italy (Beyond The Grand Canal)

One Perfect Day On The Italian Island Of Ischia

Tips About Italy

This Italy travel advice will help you plan the perfect trip!

How To Hike The Path Of The Gods On The Amalfi Coast Of Italy

How To Have An Epic Road Trip Through Italy

Traveling Italy Solo: The Ultimate Guide

Tuscany Travel Guide

You can’t go to Italy without visiting Tuscany. Learn why through these Italy travel guides.

How To Bike Tuscany & See The Region’s Best Views

A Carnivore’s Heaven In Tuscany, Italy

Learning The Art Of Cooking With Olive Oil In Tuscany

Piazza del Vino: A New Concept For Tuscany

A Delicious & Tipsy Journey Through Tuscany, Italy

Florence Travel Guide

Looking for a city guide to Florence as well as to learn about the best day trips from Florence ? Check out:

Learning The Art Of Fresco In Florence, Italy

3 Unique Art Experiences In Florence (Beyond The Uffizi Gallery)

Cinque Terre Travel Guide

If you’re looking for the best Italy places to visit you can’t miss Cinque Terre. Here’s why.

Making Friends Over Food In Riomaggiore, Italy

How To Go Beyond The Guidebook In Cinque Terre, Italy

Rome is home to some of the best sights to see in Italy , which you’ll discover in these guides.

Italy, Travel: Exploring Rome Beyond The Ruins

Exploring The Hidden Treasures Of Rome, Italy

The Ultimate Rome Solo Travel Guide

20 Best Weekend Trips From Rome

Latvia Travel Guide

The following guides can help you plan the perfect Latvia travel itinerary !

Here’s What Happens When You Travel Latvia Solo

11 Amazing Destinations For Curious Solo Female Travelers (Including Latvia!)

Portugal Travel Guide

These Portugal travel tips, destinations, and itinerary suggestions will help you plan the perfect trip!

11 Reasons Why The Azores Should Be Your Next Trip

5 Lesser-Known (But Awesome) Destinations For A Stopover

Solo Travel In Portugal: The Ultimate Guide (By A Local)

Azores Exploration: An Epic São Miguel Road Trip

Azores Travel: Exploring Adventure & Artisan Culture On São Jorge Island

Eat The Azores: A Delicious Look At São Jorge Cheese Culture

Exploring Hydroelectricity Through Hiking On São Miguel Island In The Azores, Portugal

Amazing São Miguel Island Views In The Azores, Portugal

The Perfect 3 Day Porto Itinerary

Solo Travel In Lisbon: The Ultimate Guide (With Map!)

Scotland Travel Guide

Plan an epic trip to Scotland with the help of the following advice:

25 Best Lodges With Hot Tubs In Scotland

Slovenia Travel Guide

These Slovenia travel tips, destinations, and itinerary suggestions will help you plan the perfect trip!

Slow Travel: A Slovenian Countryside Homestay With A Curative Twist

Visiting Lake Bled: Things To Do & Skip At This Slovenia Attraction (Vintgar Gorge included!)

Hiking In Slovenia In Triglav National Park & The Soča Valley In The Julian Alps (near Ljubljana)

6 Lessons Learned On A Ljubljana Bike Tour

Slovenia Travel: Local Ljubljana Experiences For Solo Travelers

Spain Travel Guide

These Spain travel tips, destinations, and itinerary suggestions will help you plan the perfect trip!

8 Secrets To Traveling Madrid On A Budget

The Alternative Traveler’s Guide To Barcelona, Spain

Things To Do In Majorca Besides Partying

24 Hours In Sevilla, Spain

14 Top Things To Do In Granada, Spain (Beyond The Alhambra)

Spain On A Budget: Granada For less Than $25 A Day

Solo Travel In Spain: The Ultimate Guide (With Map!)

A Guide To Spanish Fiestas In Benidorm

How Hiking The Camino Helped One Woman Heal & Grow

Sweden Travel Guide

Explore Sweden with confidence with the following guides:

Stockholm Solo Travel: The Ultimate Guide

Switzerland Travel Guide

These Switzerland travel tips, destinations, and itinerary suggestions will help you plan the perfect trip!

Swiss Alps Retreat: Skiiers Guide To Morzine And The Portes du Soleil

Interlaken: One Of The Destinations In Switzerland For Adventure

Solo Female Travel In Switzerland: The Ultimate Guide

4 Experiences To Have In Europe This Summer (Including Swiss Travel!)

11 Amazing Destinations For Solo Female Travelers (In Switzerland + Beyond!)

My Favorite Destinations For Getting Away From Tourists (Including A Place In Switzerland!)

Turkey Travel Guide

These Turkey travel tips, destinations, and itinerary suggestions will help you plan the perfect trip!

Cruising The Mediterranean: Turkey & Greece

Okey & Turkish Tea In A “Men Only” Hangout In Istanbul

Antalya: Luxury, History & Culture On The Turkish Riviera

Tracing The Heritage Of Delicious Turkish Dolma [Recipe Included]

Solo Travel In Istanbul: The Ultimate Guide (With Map!)

Europe Travel Tips

The following Europe travel advice can help you plan the perfect trip!

19 Best Places To Travel Alone In Europe

Best Europe Tours

Explore local culture with a Europe tour guide through these unique excursions:

• Best of Bohemian and Saxon Switzerland Day Trip from Prague- Hiking Tour (Czech Republic)
• Off the Beaten Track: Guided Bike Tour of Paris Local Districts and Stories (France)
• Cooking Class and Lunch at a Tuscan Farmhouse with Local Market Tour from Florence (Italy)
• Canyoning Adventure in the Salzkammergut from Salzburg (Austria)
• See the Unknown Copenhagen by Bike (Denmark)
• Banya experience & Sergiyev Posad Monastery Onboard A Classic Soviet Van from Moscow (Russia)
• Wine Tour of Etyek from Budapest (Hungary)

Click here for a full list of Europe travel tours!

Renting A Car In Europe

Need a rental car for your Europe trip?

Use Discover Cars to quickly compare your car rental options.

Europe Train Travel

Getting around Europe by train, bus, or ferry?

Omio is a must! I use this tool for all of my public transportation needs when traveling Europe.

The site is straightforward and user-friendly — and you can pre-book your tickets in advance at a discount.

They even offer flight and car deals!

Europe Hotels

Click here to browse the best Europe travel hotels!

Prefer self-contained stays?

Click here to check out unique local rentals!

You can also use this map to search for local stays:

Europe Travel Insurance

It doesn’t matter if you’re traveling solo or with a group on a Europe tour. When visiting Europe — or any other country in the world — make sure to get travel insurance to protect your health and safety.

In my opinion, the best travel medical insurance for travelers is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country).

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

With coverage, you’ll have peace of mind as you embark on your Europe travel itinerary.

Click my referral link here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

Europe Travel Guide FAQ

Below, find answers to frequently asked questions about traveling in Europe .

Q: What is a suggested itinerary if I’m planning a trip to Europe for 2 weeks?

Europe’s size and generally open borders make it easy to see a fair amount of the continent in just two weeks.

If you only have a limited amount of time to travel, though, you might want to focus on just one part of Europe or a group of countries when building your itinerary. This will allow you to spend a few days in each destination and explore them in-depth.

A particularly popular itinerary is a tour through Western Europe, traveling through countries like France , Italy , Switzerland , Germany , and the Netherlands. This will allow you to visit major cities like Paris, Rome, and Amsterdam as well as more off-the-beaten-path locations like the Swiss Alps and the Dutch countryside in between.

You can customize your itinerary to fit your personal travel bucket list, too. For instance, maybe you want to throw in a few days in Barcelona or Munich!

If you’re leaning more towards an Eastern European adventure, you have plenty of options. Again, focus on a few countries in the region that you want to visit and build your itinerary around them.

For example, a tour through Hungary, Slovakia, Poland, and the Czech Republic is very doable in two weeks, with plenty of time to enjoy each country and city on your schedule.

Q: What is the best way to tour Europe?

When it comes to getting around Europe, you have a lot of options. Travel between most countries is easy, with almost every country offering some form of international travel service. This is great if you’re more of a DIY traveler; whether you want to travel by bus, train or plane, you’ll find plenty of options within your budget.

Alternatively, you can rent a car or camper and take a little road trip through the continent. Just make sure your driver’s license is valid in every country you’re passing through and that you’re aware of all local traffic laws.

Not sure where to start? Check out Omio , an amazing search tool that helps you find travel deals and routes on every mode of transportation across Europe and around the globe.

Guided group tours are another fun and easy way to see Europe. Tour companies take the guesswork out of planning a multi-city or -country trip and give you the opportunity to see Europe with a group of like-minded travelers. It’s also a great option for solo travelers, particularly those heading out on their own for the first time.

Intrepid Travel has been leading small group tours around the world with a focus on sustainable and responsible travel. Their catalog features tours to nearly every country in Europe and they even cater to specific types of travelers like young adults, families, foodies, and cyclists.

GAdventures also plans a wide range of European tours and truly unique experiences like hikes through Madeira and cooking classes in Croatia. GAdventures tours go beyond the simple multi-city bus tour to give you an in-depth look at the diverse cultures of the continent and are a great option for travelers looking for that wow factor.

Q: What are some Europe train travel tips?

Europe’s robust rail system makes it easy to travel from country to country. Interrail, also known as Eurail outside of Europe, is a pass that allows for unlimited travel through Europe by train for a certain period of time. This is probably the most flexible way to travel by rail as you’re not bound to a timed ticket and can change up your plans whenever you like.

The downside? It’s expensive.

Global passes start at around $220 USD and you may still need to pay extra to reserve seats on certain routes.

In some cases, you may be better off just booking individual tickets, so be sure to compare prices before you book.

Overnight trains are also a great option if you’re taking a longer journey and don’t want to lose a day of exploring to travel. Don’t worry about having to spend the whole night in a regular train seat; bunk beds are available on most trains and are usually pretty affordable.

Another great time-saving option is Europe’s high-speed rail. Germany’s ICE network is probably the most robust system in Europe, but many other countries throughout the continent have instituted some high-speed trains.

While many train lines have food service options ranging from snack carts to full dining cars, others do not. Be sure to do your research when booking your fare, particularly for long journeys. You don’t want to arrive at your destination completely ravenous.

And make sure to familiarize yourself with a few common transportation phrases in the languages of the countries you’re visiting. This will save you a lot of time and confusion at the train station!

Q: What are some travel tips for Europe?

Comfortable shoes and clothing are an absolute must when traveling through Europe. Yes, we’re all aware of the stereotypical tourist look of a baseball cap, slogan t-shirt, and white tennis shoes. While you want to blend in to a certain extent — especially to avoid becoming a mark for pickpockets — you still need to keep comfort in mind.

You’ll be walking a lot throughout your trip, particularly if you’re visiting major cities like Paris, and cobblestone streets are generally not compatible with heels. Make sure to pack clothes and shoes you’re happy to walk around in for several hours because that’s exactly what you’ll be doing.

While in Europe, you’ll find that most places use 24-hour time, or military time on schedules, clocks, and basically anything that tells time. If you’re not used to reading time this way, consider switching your phone or digital watch over to 24-hour time a week or so before your trip to acclimate to this system. You don’t want to accidentally show up for a 9am tour of the Vatican at 9pm!

You should also know that you won’t see everything you want to see in one trip. Every European country is chock full of things to see and your must-do list will probably be pretty long when you start planning.

Remember that there are only so many hours in a day; you may have to skip one activity in order to do another. Narrow down your list to your absolute priority activities and find time in your itinerary for each one.

And be sure to pace yourself; you don’t want to load up your first few days with activities and find yourself burnt out halfway through your trip. Schedule time to rest and give yourself some buffer time between activities.

Q: Is it safe to travel in Europe?

While the level of safety varies from country to country, Europe is generally quite safe for travelers.

Every place is different, so there will be different things to watch out for wherever you travel. It’s best to keep an eye on the news and any travel advisories for specific countries from government organizations ahead of your trip.

The main things you’ll want to be wary of are pickpocketing and petty theft. This kind of crime is common in many European countries, particularly in heavy tourist areas.

Always stay aware of your surroundings and make sure you’re not flaunting any obvious signs of wealth. Keep any valuables close to you or locked away in your accommodations.

Q: When is the best time to visit Europe?

Summer is Europe’s peak season for a reason. Throughout the summer months, you’ll find warm weather, long days, and plenty of opportunities to explore. This is also when you’ll find the biggest crowds, so make sure you have everything booked in advance so you’re not shut out of any must-do activities.

The “shoulder seasons” of spring and fall are also great options for a European vacation as the weather is cooler but generally pleasant and the crowds are much smaller.

You can also find some pretty good deals in certain countries during the shoulder seasons and the winter, so keep that in mind when booking your trip.

Q: How long can a tourist stay in Europe?

While it varies by country, visitors from many countries like the United States and Canada can typically stay in Europe for up to 90 days without engaging in any professional activity during your stay (for example, in the Schengen area).

This is very general advice, so make sure to check individual country rules.

Q: Do I need a European travel visa?

Visa rules differ by country, so you’ll need to check your country’s International Travel Information page for your destination for the most up-to-date information on entry and exit requirements.

You can also contact the embassy of your destination.

Q: Where is Europe?

Located entirely in the Northern Hemisphere — and mostly in the Eastern Hemisphere — Europe is a continent that sits north of Africa and west of Asia. It is bordered by the Arctic Ocean (north), the Atlantic Ocean (west), the Mediterranean Sea (south), and Asia (east).

Q: Are credit cards accepted in Europe?

Credit cards — particularly Visa and Mastercard — are widely accepted around Europe, particularly in tourist areas, though this does differ by country and region.

It is always wise to carry some cash for smaller establishments and in case of emergency. Additionally, you’ll want cash in more rural areas and small towns.

Q: Can you drink the tap water in Europe?

While it is safe to drink the tap water in many European countries, you’ll want to check the water quality of the specific country you’re visiting.

What would you add to this Europe travel guide?

Enjoyed this ultimate Europe travel guide? Pin it for later!

ADVENTURE BY RAIL IN EUROPE

Sustainable travel in europe, europe invites the curious.

We use cookies and Inspectlet. By using this website, you accept the use of cookies which helps us provide you more interesting and adapted content.

The Official Travel Portal of Europe

Experience europe through our stories, discover europe by your interests, arts & culture, discover europe.

• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom

Adriatic Coast

Atlantic coast, balkan peninsula, baltic states, carpathians, central europe, iberian peninsula, islands & archipelagos, mediterranean.

• Outermost Regions

Rhine Valley

• Czech-Republic

Adventure by rail in Europe

Solo Female Travel in Europe

Extraordinary train journeys

Green Spain by tourist train

Poland by train

Serbia’s movie-set landscape

Trails and rails in Luxembourg

Cyprus’ railway heritage

Tips to plan your travel to europe, how to stay safe while traveling in europe, your complete guide to planning your daily life in europe, how to choose your accommodation in europe: a guide, your guide to passenger rights while traveling in europe, want to know more about europe.

Sign up to our newsletter here:

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

11 tips for traveling Europe on a budget

Traveling Europe — in Normal Times — can be an expensive splurge or an affordable adventure depending on where you go, how you plan to arrive and what you plan to do at your destination. Although the continent seems small, a quick hop to Ireland is a world away from a five-hour flight to the Canary Islands or an Interrail adventure to the Swiss Alps. With so many diverse countries to choose from, it can often be overwhelming to plan a trip -- especially if you're tight on funds. But if you follow the below tips, you can have a fantastic vacation that won't blow your budget.

1. Get creative with points and miles

Having a stash of points and miles is great, but if you don't really know how to use them , they won't get you very far. So get creative with your points and miles and remember to think outside the box when using them.

For example, if you can't find award availability on British Airways using your Avios, you can transfer them to Iberia or Aer Lingus for a whole slew of other redemption options.

Remember that partner airlines are always an opportunity and that your credit card points are transferrable to airlines that maybe aren't as common. For example, American Express Membership Rewards points transfer to airlines like Aer Lingus and Air France-KLM.

Read more: The ultimate guide to Amex Membership Rewards

2. Fly low-cost

With many spots in Europe just two-hours or less away by plane, flying a low-cost carrier isn't so bad -- as long as you know the rules. Remember that you'll be charged extra for pretty much everything, so plan ahead if you want to check a bag, board first or reserve your seat. If you are country hopping, consider choosing a home base and planning weekend trips so you don't have to check all your luggage. And when you snag a deal for $50, $25 or even$10, just grab your under-the-seat backpack and go -- you won't regret it.

3. Travel in the off-season

Traveling in off-season or shoulder-season will save you money on flights, hotels and award redemptions. Plus, you'll deal with fewer crowds and avoid long lines, especially when visiting major tourist attractions.

Flights and hotels may offer cash deals in the off-season and remember that most airlines have peak and off-peak calendars when it comes to award redemptions, charging fewer miles/points during off-peak dates.

And consider that some hotel loyalty programs, such as Bonvoy, now have both peak and off-peak points redemptions , so if you choose to redeem during off-peak dates, your points will extend even further.

Generally speaking, most European countries' off/shoulder-seasons are October to November and January to June. Of course, avoiding major celebrations like Christmas and Easter, as well as busy bank holiday weekends, will also ensure you get the best rates.

4. Visit affordable destinations

Visiting Paris and Amsterdam (even if you do get an affordable flight deal and are able to use points for a hotel stay) won't run cheap. Instead, consider some cheaper cities in Europe, such as Krakow, Porto, Bucharest, Kiev, Budapest and beyond. A good rule of thumb is to decide what type of vacation you hope to have and then look for alternative options.

For lazy beach days, skip the French Riviera and head to Sicily or the Albanian Riviera instead. Ditch Santorini for a lesser-visited Greek Island like Paxos, Sifnos or Symi. Wine taste in Estonia, not Bordeaux, admire art in Madrid, not Vienna, or ski in Spain's Sierra Nevada instead of the Swiss Alps. Whatever style of European vacation you'd like to have, you can do on a budget -- just pull out a map and think outside of the traditional hotspots.

Read more : Long layover in Madrid? Here's all you need to know

5. Stay in a home rental or hostel

Home rentals can actually save travelers a lot of money -- and not just on the actual rate of the rental, but also on dining out or doing laundry . Since home rentals often come with amenities like a full kitchen or washing machine, you can cook your meals and wash your clothes at home, which is a huge money saver -- especially for a lengthy stay. And living like a local has cultural benefits, too, like getting a real feel for a city and how its residents go about their daily routines.

Hostels are another cost-effective alternative to hotels. And it's not what you think: these types of lodgings aren't all bunk beds and backpackers. In fact, many European hostels come with private bathrooms and bedrooms, more like small hotels than anything else. Plus, Europe is seeing an uptick of trendy boutique hostels such as the Generator brand, meaning you can still have a comfortable accommodation experience while not overspending.

6. Use the right card for purchases abroad

Unfortunately, some points-earning credit cards charge a foreign transaction fee (about 3%). However, depending on the value of the points you can earn, you may (or may not) come out on top when using it abroad. To find out, check out the TPG's monthly points valuations to see how valuable certain point currencies are.

While we almost never recommend using a debit card, but it may make sense in many instances when spending abroad. For the best cards to use, check out this guide on best cards to use abroad .

7. Know the tipping rules

Whether it's 10% or nothing at all, understanding the tipping culture can help you avoid a faux pas post-meal or after a taxi ride, as well as ensuring you don't spend money unnecessarily. Apps like Gratitude Tipping can help, showing you the rules by country for tipping drivers, guides, restaurant waiting staff, bartenders and hotel staff.

8. Don't discount trains

Although trains aren't always super cheap, sometimes they can be affordable and easy -- especially when booked in advance. Trains will help you avoid airport delays, turbulence and are generally more comfortable than a teeny airplane seat. If you need to travel with a lot of baggage or extras, trains can also be an ideal choice. And some European train journeys are incredibly scenic, making the train ride a vacation in itself. For those heading off on a backpacking adventure, Interrail passes are a valid option.

9. Travel light

Almost all European airlines charge for checked baggage -- and many taxi drivers around Europe will also add on fees for luggage, too. You can avoid this by packing light and right, using things like packing cubes or wearing travel clothing .

10. Do a free walking tour

Most European cities offer free walking tours. Check online before traveling, sign up in advance if necessary and enjoy your free tour. Although tipping is suggested, it's likely you'll still spend a lot less, even after generously tipping your guide. You may also meet other like-minded travelers, which can be welcome if you're traveling alone or looking to make new friends.

11. Check on your mobile data

While some mobile networks offer free roaming in Europe, it's a good idea to confirm to ensure you won't see any added roaming charges. There's nothing worse than receiving a hefty mobile bill upon return when you're already dealing with post-vacation blues. If your network doesn't offer free-roaming, see how much roaming rates cost before traveling, or consider buying a local SIM card upon arrival to your destination.

What Summer Travel to Europe Will Look Like This Year

By Arati Menon

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

With additional reporting by Sarah Allard

When travel journalist Jenn Rice decided to spend July and August in Italy and Croatia last year, she wasn’t expecting to be spending most of her time indoors. “It was very very hot, so I booked museum tickets during peak days or just lounged around in my room with a spritz and a book until the sun set.” In Dubrovnik she tried escaping to the sea for a cool dip, but everyone else had the same idea—resulting in sweaty, overcrowded beaches. “In Rome , gelato melted faster than the speed of light,” she says.

Come summer, major attractions like the Spanish Steps in Rome are thronged by international tourists and vacationing Europeans.

Rome and Dubrovnik weren’t the only European destinations overcome with heat. To travel in Europe in the summer of 2023 was to experience first-hand a single season of contrasting extremes. Temperatures swung from hot and dry to cold and wet, and heatwaves broke out across several of the most heavily touristed destinations, with temperatures reaching upwards of 100°F. In Northern Greece, wildfires broke out —the worst experienced there in 20 years —destroying homes, forests, and vineyards.

Yet in the midst of it all, the continent also saw record-breaking tourist numbers —the highest since pre-pandemic levels—even as hotel prices swelled and airfares hit peaks. From scenic escapes like Bellagio in Como and Taormina in Sicily (where the White Lotus effect was on full display) to bucket-list cities like Paris and Madrid , much of touristed Europe was completely overwhelmed.

“We had people calling us from Athens and Rome asking us to get them out [to somewhere cooler in Europe], because it was too hot and too crowded,” recalls Jan Sortland , founder of Scandinavia specialists Norwegian Adventures.

International tourists weren’t the only ones thronging these spots. According to the European Travel Commission , most Europeans took their vacations before the peak month of August, with Italy and France being their top destinations. This resulted in packed crowds at all the major attractions. For John Canning, an LA-based executive who traveled to Paris in July, the crowds were eye-opening. “We didn’t anticipate that everything we would want to see was sold out. We only got Musée d’Orsay tickets through our concierge at a substantial premium and could not get into the Louvre full stop,” he says.

Rice says the summer taught her to plan her travel differently this year—and beyond: “I’m going to try and do coastal Italy early in May, and if I decide to travel in Europe this summer it will be either Asturias in Northern Spain or the Julian Alps in Slovenia to keep cool."

She’s not alone—according to the travel specialists we spoke with, there’s an increased interest in lesser-known destinations offering a more laid back (and cooler) holiday. “Our guests are asking after places where they can be outdoors, yet have access to wine & foodie experiences and culture. Slovenia is a great example of where you can have all that without being overwhelmed with the heat; the Dolomites in Italy is another,” says Rachael Mendizabal, Europe travel specialist at Scott Dunn . Richard Hyde, COO at Small Luxury Hotels of the World , is seeing similar trends across their European portfolio: “Guests seem to be gravitating towards alternative destinations—Milos instead of Mykonos and Slovenia instead of Spain.”

Norway is a popular destination this summer, offering cooler weather and a myriad ways to be active outside, exploring the islands and fjords.

A big part of that shift will play into Sortland’s area of expertise: Northern Europe. With the Med getting too hot to handle, experts predict that tourism will shift northwards. “We’re seeing a lot of interest in Copenhagen and Stockholm for the cultural experience, and then onward to Norway for the nature. Currently, the fjords are still a favorite but Norway is a large country and there’s so much more to see—the Helgeland coast for example with its beautiful coastline and mountainous islands,” he says. The draw is a more moderate temperature and unique outdoor experiences. “ Iceland is a big favorite right now with the Northern lights being the most active this year from September through March,” says Mendizabal.

Jessica Puckett

Ashlea Halpern

Anna Borges

Claire Volkman

In turn, for many, the more standard city breaks will fall later in the year. “Athens and Rome will always be desirable destinations, but we’ve seen an uptick in many people preferring to go there in May and October to swerve crowds,” says Carolyn Addison, head of product at Black Tomato , noting the weather in fall has been stable lately and enticing to travelers not tied to school holidays.

With this increased flexibility, shoulder season will become tricker to define, according to Mendizabal. Thanks to hotels extending their season as demand shifts to almost year-round and the high-season pricing window getting longer, the days of “scooping a deal in September are likely over.” At Jumeirah Palace in Capri , the season now runs from March to the end of December. “Thanks to the good weather, guests are staying longer than in the past,” says Ermanno Zanini, regional vice president at Jumeirah Group, Southern Europe and United Kingdom.

Castello di Vicarello in Tuscany 's Maremma countryside has traditionally stayed open in March and November. “We're pushing the low season as much as possible because we truly believe it is a wonderful time to discover Tuscany. There is so much for guests to enjoy from hiking to mountain biking, truffle hunting, and wine tastings,” says owner Neri Baccheschi Berti.

Crucially, traveling in the shoulder and off seasons isn't just about avoiding the crowds; it’s knowing that seasonal destinations are multi-dimensional, with year-round appeal. “One of my favorite things to do in cooler weather is to hike to the peak of Mount Solaro, with its beautiful views of the town of Capri and the bay of Marina Piccola with the Faraglioni, as well as Anacapri. You also see plenty of wintering birds on the island,” says Zanini.

Zanini adds that they are in talks with the island's municipality to consider what it would take to stay open in February and March, traditionally strictly closed off. “It's not as straightforward as you think. There’s a lot of infrastructure that needs to be geared towards the low season: restaurants need to stay open, as do shops, and guides need to be available; it can’t just be the hotel,” he adds.

However, with staying open longer, there’s a real opportunity to engage local communities year-round, not to mention stabilize the hiring pool—and improve work culture. “We’ve already seen the positive impact of a longer season for our partners on the ground and locals in the hospitality and tourism sector,” says Addison, who adds that shifts in travel seasons are far from a fleeting trend. “This pattern for more year-round travel will continue to pick up pace in 2025—and beyond," she says.

Travel specialists are quick to point out that even with some of this rebalancing, summer this year and next will continue to see high demand for travel to—and within—Europe. According to Hayley Berg, chief economist at Hopper, while airfare remains higher than at this time in 2019, 40% of all searches for international trips this summer are to Europe, in line with last year and slightly higher than in 2019.

“Sure, we think that traveler numbers on the Côte d'Azur will smooth out through the year, but summer will certainly remain the festive season—only it will be longer,” says Lucie Weill, owner of wellness retreat Lily of the Valley near St. Tropez , which sees its faire share of packed streets and crowded beaches come summer. Weill adds that the hotel has seen success in extending its season.

For travel specialist Cari Gray of Gray & Co . late requests and a lack of flexibility could mean getting turned away because of a lack of availability. “Whether it’s a visit to the Vatican or dogsledding in Alaska , access is going to be very difficult. And there are only that many high-end lodges in Lapland ,” she says. Addison offers the example of Lake Como , where the best properties can often get booked up a year or two in advance during the busiest summer months. “Knowing that the top hotels and guides are getting booked up and that weather disruptions are increasingly unpredictable, clients who want to commit to the most popular summer hotspots in Europe, like the Greek islands and Sardinia are securing their bookings a year out.”

The Balearic island of Menorca is a charming escape with its rocky coves, white-sand beaches, and green rolling hills.

Ultimately, it’s not about giving up on all the places you love: just about pivoting, even if within the same country. “Why not Menorca instead of Mallorca, with its explosion of fantastic hotels and its great beach front, or Epirus in Northern Greece on the Albanian border with its Stone villages, old-growth forests, and truffle hunts instead of the islands," says Gray.

"In Italy we’re always pushing to discover new areas, even in regions that we’ve been exploring for decades like Tuscany and Umbria because new hotels are opening up regularly,” says Courtney Mundy , a travel specialist at experiential travel experts Butterfield & Robinson.

And, a word of caution for the rising favorites: “Smaller destinations in Iceland & Norway will really need to consider how to manage the higher number of visitors than ever before,” says Addison. “Parts of Iceland are overtouristed,” agrees Sortland, “so, it’s not unreasonable to think that smaller communities in Norway could eventually be at risk, too.” Whether it's through new tourist tax regimens or limits on cruise ship day-trippers to reduce crowding, a shifting tide will need more alert local governments—and as we’re swapping beaches for the mountains or Rome for Stockholm, more responsible travel habits that leave fewer traces behind.

Recommended

Disneyland Hotel Paris

Telegraphenamt

Europe Travel Guide

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Tell us about a favourite beach in Europe – you could win a £200 holiday voucher

Million Dollar Sense

11 Things Americans Should Avoid When Traveling to Europe

Posted: January 25, 2024 | Last updated: January 25, 2024

#1 Beware of Pickpockets in Western Europe

"Watch out for pickpockets in Western Europe. There is a stigma that Eastern Europe like Romania and Bulgaria is dangerous, but pickpocketing happens more in Paris, Amsterdam, Barcelona, etc."

In cities like Paris and Barcelona, where tourists abound, pickpocketing is an art form. Many users share stories of clever tactics employed by thieves in Western Europe, emphasizing the need for extra caution in crowded areas and tourist hotspots.

#2 Steer Clear of Pushy Restaurants

"Avoid any restaurant that tries to strong-arm you into entering."

Some users recount experiences of being aggressively ushered into restaurants, which are usually tourist traps with sub-standard food. This advice sheds light on the importance of choosing establishments that prioritize a positive dining experience rather than high-pressure sales tactics.

Pro tip: not all Italian restaurants in Italy have authentic Italian food.

#3 Mind the Canals and Bicycle Paths in the Netherlands

"You wouldn’t believe how many tourists end up falling in canals and walking on bicycle paths when they come to the Netherlands."

Beyond its picturesque scenery, the Netherlands poses unique challenges, with users sharing humorous yet cautionary tales of unsuspecting tourists falling into canals or running into bicycles. This insight provides a lighthearted perspective on staying safe while enjoying the country’s distinctive landscape.

#4 Exercise Caution with Handouts in Major Cities

"In major cities don’t let anyone hand you anything such as flowers or whatever. Once it is in your hands they start asking for money."

Users delve into the dynamics of urban scams, detailing instances where accepting seemingly innocent items led to persistent requests for money. For example, in Rome, a boy ran up and put a bracelet on my wrist. Before I knew what was happening, a group of men surrounded us and demanded payment for the ‘sweet’ gesture. This advice serves as a reminder to stay vigilant in busy city environments where scams are more prevalent.

#5 Guard Your Belongings

"Do not put your bag/purse/backpack on the back of your chair when you sit down to eat, especially outside."

Beyond the basic caution of guarding belongings, users share stories of organized theft, emphasizing the strategic nature of thieves working in groups. This insight offers a practical understanding of how thieves operate, urging travelers to be proactive in securing their possessions.

#6 Navigate Taxis Wisely

"To avoid letting the taxi know you don’t know where you are or where you are going, the bad ones will drive you in circles and run the tab up."

Users highlight the prevalence of taxi scams, providing practical advice on how to avoid unnecessary detours. Take an Uber or ask your hotel to call you a taxi. If getting in a taxi anywhere, always ask for the meter to be turned on or negotiate a price upfront.

#7 Check Local Opening Hours

"Don’t assume that everything will be open during the hours you’d expect in your home country."

Detailed experiences shared by users emphasize the need to adapt to varied opening hours across Europe. Whether it’s grocery stores or post offices, understanding and planning around local schedules become crucial for a seamless travel experience. Always call ahead before you start driving.

#8 Choose Practical Footwear

"Do not, for the love of god, wear stilettos. You will slip and fall down in front of 100 people including children who will point and laugh at you as you wobble away on the cobblestone with quivering ankles."

Humorous anecdotes illustrate the practicality of wearing appropriate footwear on ancient cobbled streets. This advice combines humor with practicality, offering a vivid picture of the potential pitfalls of fashion choices while traveling.

#9 Think Twice Before Renting a Car

"Don’t rent a car if you’re going to stay at a major capital, it’s not worth it, it’s much better to use public transport and get an occasional Uber."

Users delve into the logistical challenges of driving on narrow streets and finding parking in busy areas, sharing their experiences to dissuade fellow travelers from renting cars. Transit is usually very efficient and cost-effective across much of Western Europe.

#10 Mind Cultural Sensitivities

"Should be obvious, but I‘ll say it anyway: don't do the “Hitler salute” while in Germany. Not even as a joke – it's illegal."

Users underscore the legal consequences of insensitive gestures, providing a sobering reminder to respect local laws and cultural sensitivities. This advice goes beyond the obvious, emphasizing the importance of cultural awareness during travel. Don’t climb into the Trevi fountain or scratch your name in the Colosseum’s walls in Rome, don’t touch the King’s guard in London, don’t disrespect the monarchy where it exists, don’t be loud and obnoxious in Cathedrals, etc.

#11 Opt for Card Transactions

"It’s not worth coming over with a bunch of cash ($) and using an exchange service to buy €. Just use your debit or credit card, everywhere."

Users share practical insights into managing finances during travel, advocating for the convenience and better exchange rates offered by card transactions. This advice encourages travelers to rely on modern payment methods rather than carrying large amounts of cash.

Like our content? Be sure to follow us .

10 Subtle Signs of a Wealthy Person

While taking my daily scroll on the front page of the internet, I came across an interesting question. Someone asked, "What are subtle signs of wealth?" Here are the top responses.

12 Essential Things That Are Frozen In Time Since 2020

As the world gradually finds its footing after the unprecedented upheaval caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, it's clear that the effects are still lingering in various aspects of our lives.

11 Incredibly Valuable Pieces of Advice That Most People Initially Ignore

In this list, we'll explore the words of wisdom that, at first glance, might have seemed ordinary but turned out to be life-changing for those who heeded them.

10 Unusual Hobbies That Are An Immediate Red Flag For Most People

Hobbies can tell you a lot about a person, and sometimes, you stumble upon some that instantly raise your eyebrows. On a recent social media thread, users got into a spirited discussion about hobbies that are major red flags. From peculiar pastimes to downright disturbing activities, these hobbies have sparked quite the debate. Let's dive into some of these eyebrow-raising interests, as discussed by various users.

12 Of The Craziest Things Overheard on a Plane

Air travel can often be an amusing, sometimes bewildering, experience. So fasten your seatbelts, and let's take a look at what some folks have overheard during their airborne adventures.

More for You

Scott Peterson defense drops motion to seal in bid for new trial after prosecutors note files mostly public

‘Hero’ who confronted Sydney attacker offered permanent residency

Barbara Corcoran made a $200,000 'Shark Tank' offer on one condition: Power to revamp the CEO's entire business

7 CDs You Probably Owned, Threw Out and Now Are Worth Bank

Florida state trooper hurt in crash with ex-Congressman Madison Cawthorn, witness says

Photos: Angel Reese shines at WNBA draft in backless dress

Here’s what a massive exodus is costing the United Methodist Church: Splinter explainer

Israel’s near-perfect missile success had a special line of defense

3 great PBS shows you should watch in April 2024

‘Get used to the $30 burger’: 'Bar Rescue' host Jon Taffer slams California for getting ‘involved' in the restaurant business — warns of ‘incredibly high’ menu prices. Does he have a point?

Popular Ice Cream Brand Files for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy

Keanu Reeves' Ballerina Cameo as John Wick Revealed at CinemaCon Screening

Russia's only S-300 ammunition factory caught fire in Moscow

House resolution condemning 'From the River to the Sea' chant as antisemitic passes with 44 opposed

3 underrated shows on Netflix you need to watch in April 2024

Anheuser-Busch has ‘learned their lesson’: Former exec Anson Frericks

‘An unforgivable accident’: This Atlanta woman’s home was demolished by mistake — and then the city threatened to fine her for the mess. How to protect your biggest asset from the unexpected

The dog breeds that are plummeting in popularity, according to data

Sailor Moon's New Photo Release Reveals Cast in Full Costume for Show Debut

Water Bears' 'Incredible Response' to Radiation Surprises Scientists

More From Forbes

5 adventures in europe without the crowds.

• Share to Facebook
• Share to Twitter
• Share to Linkedin

Lithuania & Latvia: Vilnius to Riga with Country Walkers

If last summer is any indication—and bookings for 2024 suggest that it is—parts of Europe will be as inundated with crowds as they were in 2023. The best way to avoid the hordes is to go somewhere off the beaten path, seeking out corners of Europe free of mass tourism. Here are five European trips for those seeking a respite from the madding crowd.

Lithuania & Latvia: Vilnius to Riga

Country Walkers pairs two of the Baltics’ most desirable destinations on this eight-day trip, blending rural traditions and history. Rated Easy/Moderate includes visiting castles and historic palaces and exploring some of the scenic trails into the national parks of Trakai, Curonian Spit, Žemaitija, Gauja, and Kemeri. A visit to an amber museum and a tour of one of Europe’s largest markets, guided by a Latvian chef. There is availability in June, July and August and the cost is $4,545 (prices listed are per person, based on double occupancy, land-only).

Albania with Hinoki Travels.

Hinoki Travels chose Albania for its farm-to-table splendor, lesser-explored mountain trails, and warm-natured hospitality. It has put together a small group trip to Southern Albania with a theme of Provenance. Celebrating the region’s varied cultures, food & agriculture, and vast landscapes, this nine-day trip focuses on being hosted by local farmers, food producers, shepherds, local guides & small business owners. Accommodation is in guest houses in villages, and a highlight is sampling local food & wine. The adventures include hikes of five to six hours a day on rough, uneven terrain with varying elevations. There is also a rafting trip on the wild Vjosa River. The trip supports the efforts of EcoAlbania and Albanian citizens dedicated to protecting this river, one of Europe’s last wild-flowing rivers. There is one departure, September 14-22, 2024, and the cost is $3,250.

Exploring Zagoria with Wilderness Travel.

Best High-Yield Savings Accounts Of 2024

Best 5% interest savings accounts of 2024.

Hidden Villages of Northern Greece

The crowds may flock to the Greek Islands, but you’ll encounter far fewer tourists if you head north. Traditional Greece can still be seen in Zagoria, where stone villages sit above the Vikos Gorge. On this 12-day Wilderness Travel trip, there are hikes along shepherds' paths and across arched stone bridges that span the gorge. The itinerary includes the monasteries of Meteora, which date as far back as the 13th century. The trip concludes with a hike up Mt. Olympus, the home of the gods for the ancient Greeks. Rated Level 4+, Moderate to Strenuous, this trip features daily hikes, with accommodation in hotels and simple pensions. Hikes are mainly on old mule trails and vary from 3-5 hours daily at 3,000 to 9,403 feet. There is an October 2024 departure, and the price is $4,595.

Hiker in Tatra Mountains, Poland.

Poland & Slovakia Walking & Hiking Tour

Backroads has organized this six-day national parks adventure from Kraków to the Tatra Mountains, the dramatic natural border between Slovakia and Poland. Rated levels 1-4 (out of 5), it’s a hike through mountain passes and lakes in a region dominated by the 25 peaks of the Tatras that reach more than 8,000 feet. Traverse from Poland to Slovakia on foot while exploring the Pieninys range dramatic scenery, explore the region known as Lesser Poland, and hike among the mountain lakes, waterfalls, and fields of sheep in Slovakia's High Tatras. The journey concludes in Kraków, a World Heritage site city. There are departures in August and September, and the price is $4,499.

Bran Castle, associated with the Dracula legend and Bram Stoker.

Romania: Transylvania & Beyond

This trip from Wild Frontiers begins in Bucharest, Romania’s capital, and goes into the heart of the great ranges of the Carpathian Mountains. Cultural crossroads of Central, Eastern, and South-eastern Europe for centuries, Romania has an abundance of well-preserved medieval towns, castles, and churches. The trip crosses the Transalpina, visits the World Heritage setting of Horezu Monastery, and goes through the old Saxon heartlands of Transylvania. It includes visiting the well-preserved town of Sibiu and the rural villages of Maramureş before crossing the Carpathians again to see the Painted Monasteries of Bucovina. In Moldavia, guests hear the legends and vampire myths of Sighişoara and Bran, the latter of which is associated with Bram Stoker and the Dracula legend. There is also time to explore the UNESCO sight of Viscri and the medieval heart of Brasov. This 15-day trip has a departure in September and is rated Low/Moderate for fitness, with a cost of $4,138.

• Editorial Standards
• Reprints & Permissions

Privacy settings

Here you will find an overview of the types of cookies used on the website. You can set your consent for each category individually. Further information can be found in the privacy policy .

• Essential Cookies For the use of the website with all functions (e.g. user settings, watch lists, etc.)
• Statistics Statistics Cookies collect information anonymously. This information helps us to understand how our visitors use our website.
• Marketing In order to provide you with the best possible offer in cooperation with our partners, we use marketing tools. For example, in order to use our chatbot, you must activate this setting.
• External contents Required for viewing external media and third-party content. The provider may set cookies for its part. The respective data protection regulations of the provider apply.

Chemnitz: European Capital of Culture 2025

It'll be two decades before the next total solar eclipse hits the US .

Another option: hop on a plane to Europe and turn the 2026 total solar eclipse into a viewing vacation.

Eclipse cartographer Michael Zeiler at GreatAmericanEclipse.com told Space.com that up to 3.7 million people likely traveled for the solar eclipse on Monday.

HotelPlanner's chief communication officer, Philip Ballard, told Business Insider that the eclipse was a major revenue generator for many cities. For places like Austin, Texas, and Rochester, New York, it could have created $1 billion in revenue, Vox reported.

"I would say the total solar eclipse has become a global phenomenon," Ballard said.

Ballard added that the next solar eclipse , which will pass through Iceland, Greenland, and Spain on August 12, 2026, could result in similar tourism and revenue influxes.

And if travelers are considering a trip to Europe for the solar eclipse, Ballard recommends planning your trip now.

Determine your eclipse viewing destination

According to Space.com , 2026 will be Europe's first total solar eclipse in 27 years. Its path will go through Greenland, parts of western Iceland, and northern Spain.

Choosing where to watch the eclipse will be a tough and important decision for travelers.

Iceland and Greenland have some positives. These regions will experience longer totality times, so viewers can watch the eclipse longer. Plus, the sun will be higher in the sky, so finding a spot to watch the eclipse will be less challenging, Space.com reported.

The downside is that these regions are more likely to be cloudy, according to the outlet.

Related stories

While parts of Spain are likely to offer clearer skies, the eclipse's timing will be shorter and closer to the horizon, which means travelers will need to plan and track down a viewing location with unobstructed views of the western horizon, Space.com reported.

Regardless of the destination, according to the outlet, one bonus is that the strongest meteor shower in the Northern Hemisphere will happen the following night, so travelers can pack two events into one trip.

Book flights and hotels far in advance

Ballard encouraged people to book their hotels in their destination of choice as far in advance as possible.

"You should start looking now and booking hotels now because those cities in the path are already going to be at peak season," Ballard said.

Ballard said it's similar to when a Super Bowl city is determined or a Taylor Swift tour date is announced — you immediately see spikes in bookings. He predicts hotel occupancy rates will hit near-record highs, and room prices may double around the solar eclipse date.

Ballard's general rule of thumb is to book international travel at least three months in advance, but since this is such an anticipated event, booking earlier is smart. His advice is to start discussing plans with friends and family. If you decide on a destination, book a refundable room to keep your options open if plans change.

Regarding purchasing a plane ticket, a study from Expedia states that international travel's sweet spot is at least six months in advance.

According to Expedia, travelers who book six months in advance save an average of 10% more than travelers booking within two months or less.

Skip the hassle of planning altogether and book a solar eclipse tour

Another option is to let a tour operator do the work for you. A handful of tour companies have seen the increased interest in the solar eclipse and launched tours designed around the event.

These tours will have predetermined locations to view the eclipse, hotel blocks reserved, and itineraries highlighting both the region and the eclipse.

However, these can sell out quickly. For example, Space and Telescope created an 11-day tour of Spain around viewing the 2026 solar eclipse. The tour has already sold out as of Wednesday, and the waitlist is full.

Other operators, such as Wilderness Travel and Eclipse Traveler, have similar itineraries for the total eclipse in 2026.

Watch: A small Australian town was treated to a rare hybrid solar eclipse

• Main content