103 Experts Tips for Traveling to Europe for the First Time

Traveling to Europe for the first time was such an exciting experience for me. I couldn’t wait to try the incredible cuisine, see all of the wonderful attractions, and get lost in the cobblestoned streets I had heard and read so much about!

After visiting, I realized there were so many things I wished I had known before getting there. From planning my trip to the return journey, I learned so much along the way.

Now, I have finally written it all down to help my fellow travelers and any first-time visitors to Europe! From what you need to do to prepare for your trip to the best places to travel in Europe for the first time, I’ve covered it all.

My first trip to Europe truly changed my life and I’m so glad that you’re considering a visit to this endlessly surprising continent! If you want to know what my first trip was like, check out my short eBook Transformed by Travel: How My First Trip to Europe Changed My Life.

Things To Know When Traveling to Europe for the First Time

If you’re traveling to Europe for the first time, many things may come as a shock to you. Now, these won’t all be bad, in fact, most of them will be good!

But, it’s still good to have at least a small grasp on what to expect if you’re traveling to Europe for the first time.

Hotels, Hostels, and Airbnb’s

✅ I touched on this briefly below, but your hotel and hostel rooms are likely going to be very small. Much smaller than what is common in South America, North America, or even Asia, so don’t expect any closet space.

✅ You’ll sometimes be given an actual old-time key, not a swipe card.

✅ If you book a room with “one large bed”, it’s likely going to be two twin-sized beds pushed together.

✅ Many times, common items like mini toiletries and wash cloths are not found in the hotel rooms.

✅ Airbnb’s can be a great way to save some money and meet locals, but most of the time the Airbnb that you’re looking at is just a hotel room that someone from the hotel is booking out indivudally. If this is the case, book directly through the hotel instead.

✅ The outlets in Europe operate on 220V whereas most North American outlets operate on 110V. If you’re appliances don’t use this voltage, you’ll need to purchase an outlet converter.

Restaurants and Dining

✅ If you order water in a restaurant, it’s common for them to arrive with a plastic bottle. The tap water is safe to drink, however, so if you prefer not to pay for the bottle, then specifically ask for tap.

✅ In countries like Spain and France, it’s normal to eat dinner around 8-10:00PM. This threw us off when we started walking around looking for dinner menus at 6:00PM and found none available.

✅ Similar to what I said about the olives, restaurants will often put out bread or a different starter to hold you over while you order your meal. But, it is NOT free.

If you don’t want to pay for whatever they bring to the table, then ask for it to be removed immediately (kindly of course).

Safety in Europe

✅ Unfortunately, pickpocketing is extremely common in most cities across Europe.

It’s important to be diligent about paying attention to your belongings and never allowing yourself to get distracted by street performers, locals asking for pictures, and so forth.

✅ Each city you visit will have its own good and “not so good” streets and neighborhoods.

Do your research ahead of time to figure out the safest places to stay and where not to wander. It’s also a good idea to research if certain areas should be avoided at night.

📖 If you want a full breakdown on how to stay safe in Europe, check out my eBook: The Adventurer’s Guide to Navigating Europe Safely! It has over 150 pages and 25 chapters on how to stay safe while traveling the world’s most popular continent!

Tips for Traveling to Europe for the First Time

Think of this first part as your traveling to Europe checklist! This travel guide will help you get an idea of how far in advance to plan a trip to Europe, the best way to visit Europe for the first time from the USA, and more!

1. Get Excited

Deciding to travel to Europe for the first time is a huge step. Seriously! The majority of people around the world will never get to experience the beauty of this diverse continent, and there’s really no need to be nervous about traveling to Europe.

The entire process of planning a trip, getting everything you need together, and going through the paperwork and nitty-gritty travel requirements takes a lot of time and effort which causes many people to avoid making the decision to go altogether.

So, by making the choice to start the planning process, you really should be excited. You are about to embark on a journey to a whole new world entirely different from your own! That takes a lot of courage… be proud of yourself because that decision is not easy.

Now, get ready for some very exciting moments as you start the planning process. You have your pick of travel methods, accommodations, sites and activities, and everything in between!

Now is the time to just soak it all in because half of the enjoyment of a trip comes from the anticipation of getting there… the journey!

2. Choose Solo Travel or Buddy Travel

This is going to be the first option you have to consider. Do you want to be entirely on your own schedule? Or, would you rather share the experience with your family, a significant other, or a friend?

Don’t take this one lightly as this is a big decision. If you are someone who enjoys being alone more often than not, then choosing to travel with your most talkative friend might be a poor choice.

You’ll want to make this decision on your own before you tell anyone that you are thinking of traveling to Europe for the first time. Why?

Otherwise, you are going to hear from everyone you know about where you should go, what you should do, and possibly even get asked if someone can tag along on your journey.

Unless you are a very social person who doesn’t mind the company and input of others on your personal vacations, then I suggest figuring out your first time Europe trip itinerary and personal travel style before telling people of your plans.

Now, don’t get me wrong. The input of people who have traveled to the places you are going can be extremely helpful.

They may know that you should arrive very early in the morning at the Eiffel Tower if you plan on going to the top or that you should plan to spend at least a week in the French Alps if you plan on doing any hiking due to the vast amount of trails.

This advice can be great, but I highly recommend getting an idea of what you are looking for out of your trip first, then asking for the advice of others when you are ready.

3. Consider Your Options

Europe may be one of the smallest continents, but that doesn’t make it a small place to visit. There are dozens of countries you can travel to over thousands of miles, and endless combinations of memorable itineraries you can make.

To create your ultimate vacation, you’ll want to ask yourself a few questions:

1. Do I prefer warm weather or am I looking for snow?
2. What kinds of activities do I want to do the most? Beach days, skiing, museums, medieval castles, folk music?
3. What kind of authentic food do I want to try the most?
4. How much time do I have for travel?
5. Are language barriers going to be a problem for me?

Once you have your answers to these important questions, you’ll be able to better narrow down your list of possible countries.

Keep in mind, you don’t need to be fluent in several languages to visit Europe, especially if you plan on traveling to popular destinations like Paris, Barcelona, Rome, etc. Many locals will be able to speak at least some English.

4. Do Your Research

Once you have figured out what you are looking for in your vacation, you can begin researching possible destinations!

For example, if you are looking for a medieval town filled with narrow alleyways, cobblestoned streets, and meandering canals, then Bruges, Belgium would be a great destination for you.

If you want to spend your time sipping wine and sampling French cheese on a lakeside beach underneath the French Alps, then Lake Annecy, France is probably more your style.

There are countless options for your first trip to Europe, so be sure to do your research on which destinations have exactly what you are looking for.

5. Pick a Region

With so many different regions in Europe, it’s important to pick one and explore it to the fullest with your allotted time. Narrowing down to a specific country or a few countries within close proximity to one another will help you save time, money, and assist with your packing list.

Some of the most popular regions include Western Europe, the Balkans, Scandinavia, the British Isles, Southern Europe, Eastern Europe, Northern Europe, and Central Europe.

Each of these regions will have their own climates (for the most part), geographic layouts, cultural heritage, and cuisine. Of course, each country will vary vastly from one to the next, but you can expect similarities when traveling within the same region.

6. Consider Multi-City Flights

Multi-city flights are exactly what they sound like… flights that travel to multiple cities. Now, you can occasionally find great travel deals by doing this, and other times you’ll get a better deal by sticking to roundtrip flights.

For instance, if you are flying from the U.S. to Paris but also want to see Madrid, then you could book a multi-city flight from your nearest international airport in the U.S. to Paris, add a flight from Paris to Madrid, then fly back home to the U.S. from Madrid.

Now, this is a great way to get between destinations if you have the time to deal with busy airports, but if you are on a time crunch, I would recommend sticking with the local train system, also called the Eurail.

Multi-city flights can be booked through any airline or third-party booking website. There is usually an option next to the other options for “roundtrip” or “one way”.

If you are thinking of doing this, I highly recommend comparing prices and travel time for one-way flights and train tickets first.

7. Consider the Best Month to Visit Your Destination

Before choosing your destination, it’s a very good idea to check out a few things first. If you only have a specific week off of work to travel during a certain month, I highly recommend looking into the best destinations to visit during that month based on weather and tourist levels.

If you have the freedom to travel whenever you would like, then research your preferred destination and see what people are saying about the best time to visit.

A few questions to look into:

1. What is the weather like throughout the year?
2. How many tourists am I able to deal with?
3. Am I on a tight budget or do I have some leeway with prices?

Many popular destinations in Europe get an influx of tourists during the peak travel months between May and September for the nice weather and November and January for the holidays.

If you have any issues dealing with a lot of tourists and longer wait times for attractions, I suggest traveling to Europe for the first time outside of these months or in the shoulder season when they are just beginning or ending.

Along with the beautiful weather and tourists, prices tend to skyrocket. You can expect an increase in flight and train costs, accommodations, and food prices throughout much of the summer in Europe.

So, if you are traveling on a tight budget, I also suggest visiting during the other months of the year.

If you truly want to see the best a destination has to offer, then visit whenever you would like! Just do a little bit of research on what month has your preferred weather and available activities, and book your flight!

8. Research Holidays, Events, and Festivals

If you are planning to visit Germany with your best bud to enjoy all the beer you can drink, then you should be planning your trip around the famous Oktoberfest festival in Munich!

Events and festivals can be a fantastic addition to any trip! You’ll get the opportunity to celebrate with locals and enjoy traditional experiences you won’t see during the rest of the year.

The holidays are also a great time to go on a trip. Europe is known for its festive Christmas markets and winter-long celebrations between October and January! Head there before the holiday to pick out some authentic gifts and handmade European crafts for your loved ones back home.

9. Plan for Rest Days

What many people don’t realize is traveling takes a lot out of you. You are going to be tired, cranky, hungry, and frustrated at times. That’s a fact! Europe may be a magical destination filled with beautiful landscapes and breathtaking cities, but not everything goes to plan when you are traveling.

Many of us only get a couple of weeks of vacation per year, so don’t spend it running ramped through 8 cities in 10 days just so you can say you have been to 8 countries in Europe. Trust me, it’s not worth it.

Factor in at least one day just for relaxation and rejuvenation. You don’t have to book a spa treatment (though that is a great idea…), but plan for a day just to sit on the beach in Barcelona or have a picnic in front of the Eiffel Tower. Your sore feet will thank you!

When you return from your trip, you don’t want to feel stressed and overtired from scrambling to fit too much into a short amount of time. Instead, you’re going to want to feel happy that you went and excited to tell people all about it. Therefore, plan for rest days!

10. Create Your European Itinerary

Now that you have considered all of your options, chosen a region, picked your cities or towns, and know what activities you want to do, you can create your European itinerary!

This task becomes much easier once you have done all of those previous steps, so don’t skip out on them. Figure out the most efficient way to travel between cities and book your flights, trains, buses, or ferries.

Example of an inefficient trip:
Paris –> Brussels –> Lisbon

Example of an efficient trip:
Brussels –> Paris –> Lisbon

✈️ Click this link for my complete step-by-step guide on how to plan a trip to Europe!

11. Check Your Passport

This is a quick step, but it’s very important.

If your passport expires within 6 months of your departure date, you may not be allowed to travel. Check that your passport has at least one year before expiration to ensure a successful departure.

If it doesn’t, you can go to your country’s government website to renew it. Keep in mind, you may need to pay extra to have your passport renewal expedited if you are departing within one month.

12. Research if You Need a Visa

Some countries require a temporary visa to enter if you plan on visiting for 90 days or more or plan to work. If you plan on just visiting as a tourist, you most likely will not need a visa.

13. Get a Good Suitcase or Backpack

This is important for any trip, but especially when you are traveling to Europe for the first time. Europe is filled with cobblestoned streets, big airports, train stations, and hilly landscapes.

You are going to need a suitcase that can withstand a lot. I prefer to backpack since it’s easier than having to lug around a suitcase, but suitcases can usually hold more items (unless you are carrying a very large travel backpack like my Osprey).

Soft suitcases are easier to store on planes, but hard ones usually hold up better. Depending on your destination, look into a good suitcase that will work for what you need it for.

I recommend the Away Carry-On (my favorite hard luggage) and the Osprey Fairview Women’s 40L Backpack (my favorite travel backpack).

14. Plan to Spend At Least 2-3 Nights in Each City

One day simply isn’t enough time to see and do everything you want. You’ll feel rushed and will end up feeling disappointed when you don’t get the experience you hoped for.

Instead, spend 2-3 nights in each city, and plan a couple of activities for each day. This way, you’ll get to experience the city the way you want.

In fact, you should always plan to spend the first night of your trip in the city you fly into. It may not be the most fun night of your trip, but I recommend it for a couple of reasons.

First, if the airline loses your luggage you can pick it up easily when it arrives. Second, you aren’t going to want to continue traveling after you get off a long flight.

This will allow you to check into your accommodation, get some food, and relax for a little while before possibly starting your exploration around the city.

15. Account for Travel Time

When choosing your itinerary, keep in mind how much time you’ll be spending traveling. If you book a multi-city flight plus several trains and buses between Portugal and Belarus, the majority of your trip is going to be spent en route.

When picking your destinations, account for how much time will be spent on travel, and possibly reconsider your itinerary at this point.

16. You CAN Go Back, so Slow Down!

There is a common theme amongst new travelers that revolves around only visiting a place once in their lifetime, so they try to cram as many destinations, activities, and sites into each trip as possible.

But, that is simply not true. You CAN go back! Europe is not going anywhere (at least in our lifetime) so do yourself a favor, and slow down. Pick a few places and really explore them to the fullest.

On my first trip to Europe, I backpacked across 4 countries in 9 days because I was in college, didn’t have much money or time available to me, and thought it might be the only time in my life I’d ever get there. I have visited several times since then.

You can decide where you go during your lifetime, so just relax and enjoy this trip for what it is. When you get back, start planning your next trip!

Budgeting for Traveling to Europe for the First Time

17. Purchase Cheap Flights to Europe

So, I know what you are probably thinking. How am I supposed to find cheap flights to some of the most expensive countries in the world?

Well, believe it or not, they are out there. Here are some of my best travel tips for booking cheap flights to Europe:

1. Search for flights on Tuesday mornings (prices increase through the week and are at their highest on weekends and Mondays)
2. Book domestic flights between 4-6 weeks in advance
3. Book international flights as far in advance as possible
4. Midweek, late night, and early morning flights are the cheapest
5. Not all cheap flights have 2+ stops. Many nonstop or 1 stop flights are cheaper
6. Keep your dates flexible, if possible
7. Prices increase during peak season
8. Be willing to fly into nearby airports, if possible

18. Book Your Accommodations in Advance

Unlike flight prices that drastically change over the course of several months, hotel prices tend to increase over time as your preferred dates get closer.

It is always best to book your accommodations in advance since you will save money and have better options to choose from. Once a hotel is fully booked, there is no standby available.

You will be stuck trying to find another hotel with your preferred amenities and location.

19. Check the Conversion Rate

When traveling to Europe for the first time, budget is usually a consideration for most people. To know if you will be getting a good deal on visiting a particular destination, it’s a good idea to check the conversion rate ahead of time.

For example, visitors coming from Canada to Europe have a rather poor conversion rate when using the Canadian Dollar. One Canadian Dollar is worth about €0.68 (varies). This means that when you go to buy currency, 100 Canadian Dollars are only going to buy you about €68 in Europe.

The worth of the Euro does fluctuate relatively often, but you usually won’t see any drastic changes. Depending on your home country’s currency, you may either gain or lose currency over the course of your trip.

20. Research the Cost of Living

A good way to know how much money you should budget for your trip is to get an idea of how much the average meal, beer, bus ticket, and local activities cost.

If you know how much money you can plan to spend on food and sites during your trip, you’ll have a better idea of how much money you will need to have available. Countries like Portugal are rather cheap, but countries like Switzerland are among the most expensive countries in the world.

Researching the cost of living in your destination is a good way of knowing if you’ll be able to stick to your budget or not.

21. Choose Your Activities

If you plan on visiting Paris, there is a good chance you’ll want to see the Eiffel Tower and Le Louvre. If you want to go inside them, however, you are going to need to pay for that.

Research ahead of time what sites or attractions you may want to pay to get a closer look at, and include them in your budget.

22. Purchase a Rail Pass

Eurail is Europe’s vast train system that can take you across over 40,000 destinations! This is by far the best way of traveling Europe for both money and efficiency depending on the proximity of your destinations.

Rail passes can be purchased for single countries, a number of rides over the course of 1-2 months, or you can buy a Global Pass that can take you through 33 different countries in Europe.

If you are traveling to Europe for the first time and are visiting a single country, I highly suggest their single country pass that starts at €51 for countless city itineraries throughout your preferred country.

23. Purchase Travel Insurance

No matter where you’re going or how long you’ll be traveling for, travel insurance is essential. Especially if you or someone you are traveling with is at a higher risk for medical complications, then I highly suggest travel insurance.

Travel insurance covers almost everything that is out of your control… flight delays and cancelations, lost baggage, damage to your belongings, illness, injury, family emergencies, and even pandemics!

I personally always use SafetyWing because it’s extremely affordable, covers pretty much every activity you can think of, and covers everything I just listed.

Seriously, it’s extremely affordable. I recently returned from a 3-week trip with Sean to the Middle East and Central Asia and it only cost us a total of $82. We did everything from horseback riding to archery and we were 100% covered the entire time.

👉 Book Your SafetyWing Travel Insurance Here!

24. Purchase a Converter

European outlets are different from those found in other parts of the world. In the U.S., outlets carry 120 volts versus in Europe where they carry 220 volts.

If you are traveling to Europe with anything that needs to get charged (i.e. phone, laptop, tablet, hair dryer, etc.) then you’ll need a converter.

Converters can be found at your local electronics store or on Amazon.

25. Ensure Your Credit Card Has Sufficient Funds and Check its Foreign Transaction Fee Policy

Before traveling to Europe for the first time, pay off your credit cards. In the unfortunate case that you need to leave the country abruptly, you’ll be happy to have enough funds to cover the change fees for a return flight home.

Another good idea before heading off on vacation is to check your bank’s foreign ATM fees. Some banks offer no fees on foreign transactions, whereas some banks charged upwards of $30 per transaction!

If that is the case, you’ll want to make sure you get currency prior to departing from your bank.

26. Plan for Unexpected Costs

Unfortunately, not everything goes to plan while traveling to Europe for the first time.

If you rent a car, you may be forced to pay unexpected fines from tolls or damages. If you leave your iPod on the table of a café while you run to the bathroom, it might not be there when you get back. If you take a taxi, you may be subjected to increased milage rates and fraudulent fees.

People aren’t always honest, especially to foreigners, so keep your wits about you and plan to budget for at least an extra $200-300 in costs just in case something were to go wrong.

How to Prepare for Traveling to Europe for the First Time

27. Learn to Read a Map

After my first trip to Europe, I realized how important it was that I learned how to read a map. I was able to find the street names that surrounded me, but getting my bearings was all too difficult.

Once I learned how to get from point A to point B without having to ask the locals for directions, I started to save a significant amount of time (and money if I got on the wrong bus or train) getting to my next destination.

If you are unsure how to read a map, follow these simple steps:

1. Get a good quality map (don’t depend on Google Maps, you may lose service and it won’t update when you need it to)
2. Locate your accommodation (circle it!)
3. Find your destination on the map
4. Get your bearings (find 2 streets signs and figure out which direction you need to walk)
5. Follow the map until you reach your destination

28. Learn a Few Phrases in the Local Language

Learning a few phrases won’t only help you, but the locals as well if you need to ask for help. Simple communication is key to an enjoyable trip. Plus, learning new languages is fun!

A few good phrases you should know how to say before visiting a new country include:

1. Please
2. Thank you
3. Hello
4. Goodbye
5. I would like… (useful when ordering food)
6. Where is the bathroom?
7. How much is… (useful when buying something)
8. Numbers 1-10 (useful when ordering or purchasing multiple items)

29. Get Currency

The best way to ensure you will have some money in the local currency before arriving is to order it from your bank ahead of time. Many larger chain banks carry euros on hand, and other smaller banks often tend to have to order it for you.

If that is the case, be sure to order some currency at least two weeks prior to departing. This way, even if there is a delay in shipment, you still should get your currency on time.

If you don’t have an account with a local bank, you can buy currency at the airport.

Now, this usually is not recommended since kiosks tend to charge inflated rates and give you poor return values. You will likely not get the same value for your dollar as at a local bank, but this is an option if you don’t get any currency prior to departing.

30. Check the Local Weather

Don’t assume that you have a good idea of what the weather will be like! The weather in Europe varies significantly between countries and regions, so be sure to research average weather trends before packing your suitcase.

For example, you might be heading to Chamonix in the southeast region of France in July, however, you will need a jacket due to the cooler air that floods the town from the surrounding snow-covered Mont Blanc Range the majority of the year.

If you are traveling to Europe for the first time in the middle of summer, be sure to pack a warm sweater or some extra layers. Temperatures drop a lot at night and you’ll be wishing you didn’t only pack shorts and tank tops.

31. Make Copies of Your Passport and Important Travel Documents

Make two sets of copies of your passport, any applicable travel visas, and your license or government-issued ID. Leave one set at home and bring the other set with you and store it in a safe place somewhere in your luggage.

If anything were to happen to your passport or other documents, you would still be able to prove your citizenship while abroad. Also, if anything were to happen to you while you were abroad, your family would have proof of your citizenship back home with them, as well.

Unfortunately, traveling doesn’t always go as planned. Having these extra precautions in place is a good way of ensuring your safety when abroad.

32. Sign Up for the STEP Program (if a U.S. Citizen)

If you are traveling to Europe for the first time from the USA, you are eligible to sign up for the free traveler’s program called S.T.E.P.

This program stands for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program and allows U.S. citizens to declare where they are traveling, their dates, who they will be with, etc.

They will also alert you of travel precautions you should be taking, current travel restrictions, and any other travel-related news that might be beneficial to you.

S.T.E.P also allows the U.S. Embassy to contact you in the case of an emergency (civil unrest, natural disaster, or family emergency).

33. Call Your Bank

Have you ever been abroad and had your debit card shut off for possible fraudulent charges? If the bank doesn’t know you are traveling and you make a purchase in another country, they may shut your card off which can really put a damper on your trip.

To prevent this from happening, be sure to give them a call at least 24 hours before departure or on the Friday before you leave if you depart on a weekend.

Let them know where you will be traveling to including any airports you’ll be stopping in, the dates of your trip, and that you plan on using your debit card while abroad.

This will go on your account so your card will not be shut off while you are abroad, but it will also let the bank know to keep an eye out for any seemingly fraudulent charges.

Even though you’ll be using your card, it’s unlikely you’ll be making very large purchases abroad, so they’ll be watching for any purchases that don’t seem to have come from you.

34. Call Your Phone Service Provider

To prevent severe data roaming charges and fees on your phone bill, you’ll either have to plan on keeping your phone in airplane mode the entire trip or adding a travel plan to your account.

The added travel plan typically lasts for 30 days and allows you to make calls and send unlimited texts while abroad. It usually costs around $30-45. If you know you’ll need to make calls, then this will save you money in the long run since individual calls and texts without the plan are very expensive.

If you don’t want to pay for an added phone plan and don’t think you’ll need to make any calls, you can choose to keep your phone in airplane mode and download an app called WhatsApp. The app is free and allows you to “text” anyone else who has the app for free.

35. Give a Close Friend or Family Member Your Itinerary

It’s always a good idea to tell people where you are going and for how long. For an extra safety measure, type out your itinerary with hotels included and email it to a friend or family member.

This way if something were to go wrong, they would know where you were every day that you were abroad.

36. Fill Any Medications or Prescriptions

Any medications that you are going to need with you in Europe should be filled in the week before your trip.

This way you won’t need to worry about running out while abroad.

37. Find Your Glasses Case

Pull out that dusty glasses case! When traveling to Europe for the first time, you’ll probably find that your glasses are going to be left on crooked café tables and rickety seatback airline trays. If they aren’t on your face, they should go in a case.

Glasses cases also make great wire holders while traveling! Neatly fold up your chargers and headphones and they’ll fit perfectly inside making for an efficient way of carrying all of those wires.

38. Pack Appropriately

Packing for the weather is a good start, but you’ll want to do a little research on how locals tend to dress, as well.

Now, I’m not saying you need to wear a lederhosen when you visit Germany, but fishnet leggings with heels in Ireland will definitely make you stand out… not in a good way.

Opt for nice clothes when traveling to Europe for the first time. Europeans tend to dress rather nicely every day of the week, plus you’ll feel more confident and won’t stand out as very underdressed or overdressed.

39. Sleep Well Before Departing

Whether or not you are flying overnight or during the day, planes typically make people tired.

Getting a healthy amount of sleep in the nights before departing will significantly improve your flight experience. Unless you are keen on sleeping on planes, chances are you won’t get much rest during the flight.

40. Account for a Time Difference

If you are flying from the East Coast of the U.S., you will most likely experience +6-7 hours in time difference. From the West Coast of the U.S., +9-10 hours is likely if you are coming from California.

No matter where you are flying from, do a quick search to see what time it will be when you land. This will help you plan your eating and sleeping schedule immensely!

If you are taking an overnight flight and are landing around 8:00am in your destination, plan to eat dinner before boarding then brush your teeth and go to sleep after take off. This will greatly improve your sleep quality on the flight since you are maintaining your brain’s sleep schedule.

If you are departing at 6:00am and will arrive at your destination around 8:00pm, try to stay awake during the mid-day flight and eat lunch at a normal hour. This way you’ll be tired when you land, can go check into your accommodation, then go to sleep as normal without disrupting your sleep schedule.

41. Prepare for Jetlag

Unfortunately, if you land early in the morning after a long-haul flight, chances are you will suffer from some level of jetlag. This is perfectly normal and does go away after some time, but there are a few things you can do that will help.

First, drink plenty of water. One of the most common symptoms of jetlag is having a headache which can be significantly reduced by staying hydrated.

Second, rest up. Like I said before, the more sleep you get in the days leading up to your flight, the better you will feel when you land in your destination.

Lastly, stick with your normal schedule. Even if you are on a flight or in an airport, eat when you normally would, do activities when you normally would (i.e. read, draw, listen to music), then sleep when you normally would.

Staying on your normal schedule will reduce how severe your jetlag symptoms are and how long they last.

Getting to Europe

42. Arrive Early

For international flights, you should plan on arriving at the airport about 3 hours before your departure time. This will give you enough time to check in, check any bags, get through security, and find your gate.

The stress of missing a flight is not fun for anyone and sets the trip up for a bad start. Three hours may seem like a lot of time, but there are several variables that can cause you to still be late to your gate even if you are extra early.

I have stood in security lines that took two hours to get through, had random bag searches that took an extra 25 minutes and almost caused me to miss a flight, and realized I had to take several trains and shuttles to get to my gate.

You never know what may happen, so arrive early and bring something to do at the gate.

It may feel unnecessary to sit at the gate for an extra hour or two, but you won’t be stressed about missing any announcements or being late. Start your trip off right by being early to the airport!

43. Plan for the Airline to Lose Your Checked Bag

Especially if you are heading to Switzerland in the winter to go skiing, don’t pack your winter jacket in your checked luggage. Pack your carry-on bag with everything you would need to get you through 48 hours in your destination. Toiletries, an extra full outfit, and a jacket or sweatshirt should be included.

Unfortunately, airlines make mistakes. I don’t check bags anymore since I have had at least one of my bags get lost with half a dozen different airlines before. These were quality airlines too, not budget airlines.

So, do yourself a favor and plan ahead for them to lose your bag by packing a useful carry-on. This, of course, is not guaranteed to happen, but you’ll be grateful you were prepared if it does.

44. Avoid the Middle Seat (if possible)

Everyone has their own personal preference, but from personal experience, the middle seat is the worst. In my opinion, the aisle seat is the best! Yes, the window seat is fun and offers cool views, but nobody likes having to crawl over strangers to use the bathroom.

The aisle seat allows you plenty of opportunities to just get up and stretch your legs whenever you feel like you need to and to use the bathroom without disrupting other people.

The middle seat doesn’t allow you good views out the window without entering the personal space of someone else, and you have to make someone move every time you need to get up.

If you have the option, choose the aisle seat or the window seat with the understanding that you should use the bathroom before departing.

45. Pack All Your Liquids in One Clear, Ziptight Quart Bag

TSA now requires travelers to fit all of their 3.4-ounce liquids into a single quart bag that can zip shut. If the bag can’t shut, they may have you discard some of the items. This makes it extra simple when they ask you to remove all of the liquids from your bags during the security check.

Keep in mind that this includes all liquids. Ladies, liquid concealer or other liquid makeup products also need to be included in your quart bag!

46. Pack an Empty Reusable Water Bottle

When traveling to Europe for the first time (and preferably every time after), you should be bringing a reusable water bottle with you. Many countries in Europe don’t have potable drinking water, so one with a filter is especially useful.

Be sure to fill the bottle after you get through security! If it’s full, they may have you discard the item entirely since it is over the 3.4 ounces limit.

47. Don’t Assume You’ll Get a Meal on the Flight

If you are like me and pretty much always feel hungry, then this one is for you. Don’t assume you are getting a meal on the flight! Especially during these times with the pandemic, meals are never a guarantee.

Pick up some food at the airport and bring it on board. You can ask one of the flight attendants if they will be serving a meal, and if not, you’ll be glad you have a backup meal ready.

If they are, it’s never a bad thing to have an extra sandwich with you in case you end up sitting on the runway for a couple of hours.

48. Pack Snacks

Individually wrapped snack bars are a great way to keep yourself from getting hangry (hungry and angry) on a long haul flight, train, bus, or ferry rides, or even just while you are out exploring.

They also keep well and you don’t have to worry about the meat and cheese in a sandwich going bad.

49. Pack Hand Sanitizer

Whether you are traveling to Europe for the first time or not, you should always pack hand sanitizer.

You will be touching airline tray tables, public door handles and railings, and everything in between.

When you don’t have a way of washing your hands before you eat, hand sanitizer is a great substitute when traveling.

50. Don’t Assume the Airline Will Have Seatback TVs

Always pack a book, some headphones, a puzzle of some kind, anything!

If your flight gets switched at the last minute due to complications, you’ll be glad you have something to entertain you.

51. Bring a Battery Pack

Those headphones aren’t going to be very useful if your phone or iPod dies.

So, bring along a fully charged battery pack so you can recharge your phone before getting off the plane in your destination. This might be a lifesaver if you don’t have a map with you!

52. Limit Your Alcohol Consumption

Alcohol will not only make you tired and groggy, but it’ll also make you have to use the bathroom a lot more often.

Avoid alcohol if possible, or at least limit your intake to only one drink, then stick to water for the rest of the flight.

53. Go Over Your Travel Guide

Travel guides are a great way to get an in-depth look at your destination before getting there. You can practice the local language, look at the map and get a feel for how big the city is, and even plan out the attractions and activities you want to see and do each day.

Travel guides are a must if you are traveling to Europe for the first time!

54. Drink Plenty of Water

Planes are especially dry and cause you to become dehydrated much faster than normal. It’s important to drink water throughout your flight and to avoid soda and alcohol as best you can.

55. Stretch Your Legs

You might become a nuisance to the other people in your row if you do this too often, but get up at least a couple of times over the course of the flight to stretch your legs.

If you don’t, your legs will probably end up feeling very tight and sore when it comes time to get off the plane.

56. Hit the Bathroom

If you are staying hydrated, you’re going to need to go to the bathroom at least once during the flight.

It’s a good idea to go even if you don’t think you need to because it will give you another opportunity to stretch your legs and will prevent you from getting that “oh no” feeling when you land!

57. Brush Your Teeth

I’m not sure about you, but I always feel significantly better after brushing my teeth on a flight.

It wakes you up, removes that bland taste from your mouth, and helps you feel cleaner even after sitting on an airplane for a while.

58. Get Some Sleep

If you can sleep well on planes, lucky you! Getting some good quality sleep can improve your overall travel experience and can leave you feeling livelier than ever even after a long-haul journey.

Exploring Europe

59. Avoid Renting a Car When Traveling to Europe for the First Time

Renting cars in Europe is a nightmare… it’s as simple as that. Even for the seasoned traveler, this process and experience can be overwhelming and frustrating.

If you are from the U.S. (like me) and are not prepared for driving on the opposite side of the road and on the opposite side of the car while driving manually, I warn you not to rent one.

Almost every city in Europe is extremely walkable and has a great metro or bus system making it easy to get around for people traveling to Europe for the first time.

60. Avoid Cabs and Taxis Altogether

Taking taxis or cabs is one of the most common ways to get scammed in Europe. Even for a short ride, you can end up being told you have to pay up to €100. Cabbies are also known for claiming that you didn’t pay them enough money after they have already put the money in their pocket.

If you must hail a cab, be sure to find one with a real company logo and telephone number. You can also ask any hotel concierge to call you a taxi since they will likely be using reputable services for their guests.

61. Avoid Street Scams

Street games are one of the most common ways tourists get scammed in Europe. Figuring out which cube the dice is under, card games, etc., should all be avoided.

Additionally, you should never exchange your money for local currency with someone on the street! The money is almost always fake and locals will be able to tell the difference and won’t accept it.

62. Keep Your Personal Items Close

Pickpocketing is a real problem in Europe. In fact, many people make a living off of it! Keep all of your important items in a zipped bag on the front of your person at all times.

If you are at a restaurant and need to run to the bathroom, bring your items with you. Never leave your important items unattended or you could become a victim of the common petty theft problem in Europe.

63. Research Transportation Strikes

Transportation strikes can undoubtedly cause issues on your trip, but the good news is you’ll know when they are going to happen!

Simply research your destination and if they have any scheduled strikes. I recommend doing this before you book your trip just in case, but it is avoidable if you end up traveling to Europe for the first during a strike.

This would give you a great opportunity to rent bicycles and explore the city on two wheels (my favorite way of exploring Europe!)

64. Expect Heavy Security

In airports, train stations, bus stations, and government buildings, expect to see armed guards around every corner. This does not mean anything has happened recently, but since Europe is a common victim of attacks and political violence, they are there in the event of an emergency.

Don’t let this frighten you away from Europe! Every country in the world has its own levels of violence and crime, and the only thing you will most likely have to look out for is petty theft.

65. Your Hotel Room May Be Very Small

Pay no attention to what the photos look like online when you booked your room… they are probably showing a much larger version than what you are getting! Most European hostels, inns, and hotels can only offer tiny rooms.

If the room you are looking at offers a “shared bathroom”, you can almost guarantee you’ll have a small square with a single bed and a single bathroom per floor of people.

This is all part of the fun of Europe, however. We have gotten lucky before with beautiful, massive rooms overlooking the city of Bruges in Belgium, and have gotten stuck in a step above a broom closet in Amsterdam. You never know what you are going to get, so don’t stress over it!

66. Be Prepared to Walk… A Lot

Good walking shoes are one of my number one tips for traveling to Europe for the first time!

And even if you do pack good shoes, be sure to pack some bandaids, as well. Blisters are nearly unpreventable if you are planning on taking to the entire city on foot!

To reduce the amount of walking you do, you can do two things:

1. Rent Bicycles – the best in any European city!
2. Take advantage of the local bus or metro system

67. Expect a Language Barrier

Especially if you are traveling to Europe for the first time, you can expect to get hit with at least a small language barrier in restaurants, stores, etc. This will become more apparent as you leave the major cities, as well.

✅ Pro Tip: Carry a travel guide on your destination with you! It should have great travel tips for getting through the city as well as common phrases with pronunciations to help you communicate. Rick Steves has a great one on The Best of Europe Travel Guide!

68. Carry Cash With You

By cash, I mean euros. Don’t carry a lot of your home country’s currency with you since you will most likely receive a very poor exchange rate from the locals.

I would carry around €60-70 on me at any given time but never above €100. This gave me enough to buy food and maybe purchase an impromptu attraction ticket if I find something I decide I want to do in the moment.

But, pickpockets are still very real in Europe, so if this does happen to you, you don’t want to lose all of your money at once!

69. Smoking is Allowed Almost Everywhere

If you are like me and are really put off by the smell of cigarettes, you might have some trouble adjusting to life in Europe.

Many restaurants and hotels still allow smoking indoors, so be sure to ask for a non-smoking section or room ahead of time if you aren’t comfortable with it.

70. Pick Up a Metro or Bus Schedule

Even if you plan on walking most of the time, having the local bus or metro schedule with you is a good idea.

This way, if you end up covered in blisters and simply need a ride, you’ll know where all of the stops are and what time the pickups are.

71. Try to Fit In With the Locals

But, be yourself! You don’t need to walk, talk, and dress as they do, but standing out like a tourist will draw some unwanted attention (especially from pickpocketers).

Put your massive city map and travel guide away until you are indoors and don’t stop to take pictures of the sidewalk and random objects all around town.

By fitting in, you are less likely to become a victim of petty theft and will be treated better than your fellow tourists.

72. There is a Fee to Pee

If you are traveling to Europe for the first time, you may be surprised to hear that there is usually a fee to use the bathroom. This includes many chain restaurant bathrooms, as well (i.e. McDonald’s, Starbucks, etc.)

The fee ranges from place to place, but about €0.50 is typical.

If there is no attendant outside of the bathroom collecting money, don’t be surprised if you have to pay for toilet paper when you get inside. Don’t be fooled by the large bills in the coin jar though, €0.50 is plenty!

73. You May Be Asked To Leave Your Room Key With the Receptionist

If when you are checking into your hotel they ask you to leave your room key with them when you go out, don’t be surprised. This is typical of many European hotels, especially ones offering unique door keys that they don’t want to get lost.

I have never had a problem with anything getting stolen, but for extra safety, I would always carry your passport and money on your person if they do take your room key.

Unfortunately, if something gets lost or stolen while you are out, by signing the contract and agreeing to their terms and conditions the hotel can’t be held liable.

74. Everyone Can Understand You and Your Conversation

Many people in Europe, and around the world, can speak multiple languages. Keep this in mind when you are walking down the street having a conversation.

Be mindful of your words and the language you use while in Europe, the majority of people around you can understand everything you’re saying!

75. Avoid Kissing Cheeks

Kissing cheeks is a cultural tradition in mainly French culture, but in other European countries, as well. Kisses are exchanged between two people who know each other very well such as family members or close friends, but never when meeting someone for the first time.

If you do this, you are likely to get yelled at and most likely physically removed from the person you are attempting to kiss!

76. Avoid Sidewalk ATMs

Sidewalk ATMs are another common way locals scam tourists. They have special readers that fit perfectly over the ATM that steal your card information which is then removed at the end of the day, night, or week.

Once they have your card information, there is no saying what they will do, but you may end up with some fraudulent charges that will take you a long time to sort out with your bank.

Instead, only use ATMs inside of a local bank or behind a locked door. These rooms have cameras, so your information is less likely to be stolen here.

77. Plan to Eat At Different Times of the Day

When I was traveling to Europe for the first time, I had no idea that it was customary to eat dinner around 10:00pm in several popular countries. In Spain, they typically don’t even bring out the dinner menu until after 7:30pm.

This was a shock to us since we were so used to eating dinner around 6:00pm, so the first couple of nights we ended up snacking on whatever we could find until dinner time.

If you also eat an early dinner, plan to eat a late lunch in Europe so you don’t find yourself extremely hungry by the time dinner rolls around!

78. Burnout is Real

If on your first trip to Europe you start to feel tired, overwhelmed, easily irritated, or even exhausted… that’s okay!

Burnout happens to almost everyone at some point in their journey. The best way to fix it is to shift your plans for the day and just spend a day relaxing.

Head to the beach, get a massage, sit at a café and people watch, or anything that will make you take a step back and rest for a little while.

79. Pick Out a Souvenir

If you are traveling to Europe for the first time, be sure to pick out a souvenir!

We collect shot glasses from everywhere we visit since they are easily packable and are unique to each place we go. Whether it’s a t-shirt or a cool mug, be sure to bring something home for yourself.

80. Enjoy Yourself

Even if you are traveling to Europe on a budget, you should enjoy yourself. Be sure to step back from all the things you were told you had to do when visiting Europe and ensure you do what makes you happy.

If you would rather read a book on a park bench than see the Eiffel Tower when visiting Paris, do it! This is your trip too, no matter who you may be traveling with, so be sure to fit in at least a couple of things that you want to do too.

Experience the Cuisine

81. But Avoid the Tourist Hot Spots

Every city in Europe has its heavy tourist areas, but they are easy to seek out. If all you see are tourists, restaurants, and long lines, leave! The best food of any city is almost always outside of these tourist zones.

For high-quality food at reasonable prices and local bars serving up pints for less than €7, hit the smaller neighborhoods outside the city center.

Of course, there will be some attractions and activities you may want to do if you’re traveling to Europe for the first time, but don’t spend your entire vacation in the most touristy spots of the city. You’ll miss out on unique experiences and hidden gems only known to locals!

82. Get Out of Your Comfort Zone

Don’t be afraid to try new things! Europe is known for its sensational cuisine of all different varieties and styles and should be explored to the fullest.

Try squid ink pasta in Portugal (my favorite!), pan-seared octopus in Barcelona, or extra smelly cheese in France. Food has a way of making a trip special, so enjoy it while you are traveling to Europe for the first time.

Remember, you can always go back, but that’s no reason not to indulge in all of the Belgian chocolate you can!

83. Expect to See Teenagers at the Bar

You may be surprised to be drinking next to an 18-year-old (or even 16 years old in Germany and Austria) at the local pub, but it is legal. Unlike the U.S., Europe has a rather young drinking age.

84. Seat Yourself

Rarely will you find a restaurant in Europe with a dedicated host or hostess. Normally, you’ll go in and seat yourself and one of the few waiters or waitresses will bring over a menu.

It’s typical to walk in, give a wave to one of the employees so they see that you’re there, then sit where you would like. If there is a host or hostess, they will be standing right at the front door similar to the U.S.

85. Eat Out At Least Once

Unless you are renting an apartment with a full kitchen, you most likely will be buying your food out pretty often. But, if your budget allows, you should try to enjoy at least one meal at a nice sit-down restaurant in each country you visit.

You can find fantastic food on the streets of Europe, but sometimes the best local and authentic cuisine is waiting indoors. Even if it’s just a small shop with a few tables, try it out!

✅ Pro Tip: Try the Doner Kebab! This is one of my all-time favorite meals to get in Europe! They are very affordable and customizable to your liking. Think warm pita bread stuffed with flavorful meat, vegetables, and sauces.

86. Expect Slow Service

Waiters and waitresses don’t truly wait on you hand and foot like they do in the U.S. It could be a long time before your food comes out and you should not expect an apology from the waitstaff.

87. Be Prepared to Initiate Communication With Your Server

If you need something, you are most likely going to have to get your waiter or waitress’ attention.

Don’t be disrespectful by waving them down, but a simple head nod or some eye contact usually does the trick.

88. You’ll Have to Ask for the Check

Waiters and waitresses won’t ever bring you the bill.

In Europe, dinners can last up to 4 hours! If you aren’t looking to be at a restaurant past closing time, then you’ll need to wave down your server and ask for the bill.

89. Tipping Is Not Always Customary

Tipping is not expected in many countries in Europe. It’s customary to round the bill up to full dollars, but the typical U.S. amount of 20% is far above what you need to tip your waiter or waitress.

The staff makes good wages, so they do not rely on tips for the majority of their income.

When I was in Ireland, I left a few euros for the bartender as a tip and left. He then proceeded to run out of the pub to give me the money he thought I had forgotten on the bar. Like I said, tipping is not always customary!

90. If You Don’t Want the Bread and Olives on the Table, Have the Waiter Remove Them

If you are traveling to Europe for the first time, don’t be surprised if there is already food on your table when you sit down in a restaurant or you have food brought to you the moment you sit down.

In several European countries, especially Portugal, it’s customary for bread and olives to be brought as the first part of your meal. However, if you don’t plan on eating them, have the waiter or waitress remove them.

Otherwise, you will be charged! It’s not a free appetizer, you will be charged between €2-5 for the extra food.

91. If Your Order a Coffee, You Might Get an Espresso

If you are a strong coffee lover and are traveling to Europe for the first time, you may or not be happily surprised. In Europe, the locals tend to drink more espresso than coffee flavored with milk and sugar.

If you want to get your usual coffee, be sure to read the menu and take a look at their cup sizes. If you only see 4oz mini cups, they may only serve espresso.

If that is the case, you can usually ask for an Americano which is watered-down espresso. It tastes very similar to coffee in the U.S. and can have cream and sugar added as normal.

92. Hit the Local Supermarket

You can find great food options in the local supermarkets for very cheap.

They are a great place to grab a baguette, some meat, and cheese for a picnic in the park in France, or some snacks to have in your room if you are on a tight budget.

93. Try the Local Beer, Wine, or Spirits

Unless you are sober, no trip to Europe is complete without trying the local beverages.

In France, wine is the most popular beverage of choice. If you order beer, be ready for a hefty tab. Expect the opposite in Germany or other countries with a large beer menu.

94. Alcohol May Be Cheaper Than Water

Many countries in Europe charge a significant amount more for bottled water than they do for alcohol.

Now, this does depend on the country you are in, but if you don’t drink alcohol, then that reusable water bottle with a filter will come in extra handy for your budget.

95. Splurge and Eat Decadently

You are traveling to Europe for the first time! Be sure to budget for some Belgian chocolate and waffles, some melty French Raclette, or some Portuguese custard tarts!

96. Buy an Airport-Approved Treat

One of the best ways to remember a trip is by bringing home a decadent treat for yourself (if you are able to avoid eating it on the return flight home).

Many chocolate and cheese shops sell TSA-approved goods for travelers. Take advantage of this option and return home with some goodies for yourself or your loved ones!

Returning Home from Traveling to Europe for the First Time

97. Plan Your Route to the Airport Ahead of Time

Traveling to Europe for the first time can definitely bring on some challenges. Finding the best route to the airport can certainly be one of them!

At some point during your trip, be sure to figure out the best way of getting yourself to the airport on time.

Many major cities have direct metro lines and bus routes to the international airports but find which one is the closest to your accommodation and book tickets in advance, if necessary.

98. Purchase Any Bus or Train Tickets in Advance

It is very possible to go on a 2 week Europe itinerary by train as long as you are aware of when train tickets are going on sale for your routes.

If you are going to need any form of transportation to get yourself from your accommodation to the airport on the day of your return flight, be sure to check the schedules and buy any tickets you can in advance.

Train travel is usually very reliable, so you won’t have any leeway at the station to grab tickets last minute if you’re running late. This will save you time and stress on the day of your flight.

99. Organize Your Suitcase

Separate your dirty laundry from your clean clothes, ensure all of your liquids are back in that clear, quart-sized ziplock bag, and fold everything up neatly before closing up your bag.

This will save you a lot of time when you get home, and in the event that you need something, you’ll be able to find it easily!

100. Cushion Your Souvenirs

There is nothing worse than arriving home from your wonderful vacation with a suitcase full of broken glass! Be sure to wrap up any souvenirs, especially anything fragile, with bubble wrap or clothes.

Anything will work as long as there is enough of it to keep the items from moving around too much.

101. Be Prepared to Declare Any Perishable Items

On your way back from Europe, you will be given some documents to fill out on the plane regarding the amount of money you are traveling with (including the value of your items) and if you have anything to declare.

While you most likely won’t have anything of dangerous value, you may have some other items that TSA will need to know about.

Anything perishable, like produce, plant life, or living organisms of any kind will need to be declared during TSA and included on the form.

They won’t necessarily take everything away from you as long as it is cleared, but if you don’t declare something and they find it, they will definitely take it away and possibly fine you.

102. Reflect on Your Experience

Once you return from traveling to Europe for the first time, you are going to be elated! At least, you should be. Visiting Europe, for many people, is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Reflect on how it went, what you enjoyed and didn’t enjoy, what you would do again, and what you would do differently the next time you go to Europe.

Hopefully, you have some wonderful memories and phenomenal pictures to bring home with you!

“Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer”

– Anonymous

103. Plan Your Next Trip

Now that you have visited Europe, start planning your next trip right away!

Where do you want to go next? Do you want a more adventurous or a more relaxing vacation next time you visit?

Don’t fall into the mindset that you’ll probably never return or that you can’t afford another vacation for a long time. Traveling can be done in all forms for all different lengths of time. Do what is right for you and what makes you happy!

👉 Need some help deciding on an itinerary? Here are 11 of My Most EPIC European Itineraries!

FAQ

To answer this question most effectively, we’ve broken down the answers into a few different specific questions that will better help you to understand what you need to know before you get to Europe.

Where Should I Go for my First Time in Europe?

For first-time travelers to Europe, I usually suggest starting with classic European destinations such as Paris, Rome, or London. Each of these cities offers a diverse range of historical sites, famed landmarks, cultural experiences, and delectable cuisines.

Paris, known as ‘The City of Lights’, is famous for its iconic Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and its charming café culture. Rome, the ‘Eternal City’, is a treasure trove of ancient history, from the awe-inspiring Colosseum to the stunning Sistine Chapel.

London, a vibrant cosmopolitan city, boasts sites like the British Museum, the Tower of London, and the bustling Oxford Street for shopping enthusiasts.

Remember, there’s no definitive ‘best’ destination – the best choice will depend on your personal interests. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, a lover of art, or an outdoor enthusiast, Europe has something to offer for every traveler.

It will always be in your best interest to think about your personal interests, then research destinations that have what you’re looking for!

What Do I Need to Buy Before Going to Europe?

The biggest question I get asked from newbie travelers is “is there anything I need to do before traveling to Europe?” and every time I respond with an answer along the lines of not stressing over what you pack.

On every trip I take, I always bring along my packing cubes since they are great for organizing my clothes and toiletries and separating my dirty and clean laundry.

I also suggest purchasing a good suitcase, a travel wallet that can hold your passport and necessary items, a day backpack, and good walking shoes.

Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to go out and buy a bunch of stuff for your trip to Europe.

Depending on the season and your destinations, there’s a good chance you already have plenty of appropriate clothing, a decent suitcase, and all of the hygiene stuff you’ll need.

I do recommend picking up some reusable travel bottles so you don’t have to spend a ton of money on disposable shampoos, conditioners, and so on.

This makes it easy to pack all of your daily lotions, creams, sprays, and such without worrying about being over the 3.4-ounce TSA carry-on limit. Otherwise, as long as your house, pets, and anything else you’re leaving behind is well looked after, then you don’t have to worry.

Which Country in Europe Should I Visit First?

Some of the best places to visit in Europe for first timers include London, Paris, and Brussels. These are some of the must see cities for first time visitors in Europe since they are easy to navigate, have lots of fun attractions, and don’t require too much planning.

Personally, I would suggest visiting London and Paris if you are trying to create a traveling to Europe for the first time itinerary since you will experience similar time differences, climates, and food.

If you are really looking to explore some of the more off-the-beaten-path areas of Europe, I highly recommend visiting the French Alps town of Chamonix or the smaller towns of Belgium including Bruges and Ghent.

Of course, you can branch out like we did and visit other popular cities such as Budapest, Prague, and Berlin. These are all must-see cities in Europe, but don’t try to squeeze them all in on your first trip to the continent.

Instead, space them out among your other future trips so you have enough time to enjoy each city and everything it has to offer!

How Do I Start Planning a Trip to Europe?

Deciding where you want to travel in Europe is the first step of planning your trip, which makes it all the more daunting.

With so many amazing countries to visit in Europe, it can be hard to narrow it down to just a destination or two. But there are some key things you should consider when making your decision: budget, climate, attractions, food, and culture.

Get a pen and paper (I’m old-school, I know…) and write down your priorities for each of these topics. What is your absolute maximum budget? What kind of weather are you hoping for? Do you prefer museums and art galleries over shopping?

Ask yourself about everything you would consider doing on your trip, and that will help you narrow down which destinations may be the best fit for you!

How Many Countries Should I Visit in Europe in 2 Weeks?

If you’re planning a trip to Europe for 2 weeks, take my advice… from personal experience, I wouldn’t suggest trying to visit more than 4 or 5 countries in 2 weeks. I backpacked across 4 countries in 9 days, and boy was it a lot!

It was the experience of a lifetime and I’ll cherish those memories forever, but holy blisters and sore backs.

To get the best experience from each country you visit, opt to instead think about how much time you want to spend in each country versus how many countries you can fit into 2 weeks.

For example, if you know you want to go to France and plan on visiting Paris, Normandy, Chamonix, Bordeaux, and Lyon, then you probably have a week minimum set aside for France already. So, if you’re planning a trip to Europe for 1 week, then you may want to consider visiting 1-2 countries at most.

Don’t cut back on the things you want to do in a particular country just so you can say you went to more countries… it’s all about the experiences and memories you make while you’re there!

What Should You NOT Do When Traveling to Europe?

As in many countries, there are certain things you should not do when traveling to Europe.

✅ First, avoid drinking in public.

There are still laws about this and you will get fined by the local police. You might be extra excited to be traveling to Europe for the first time, but not every city is like Amsterdam.

In fact, even Amsterdam doesn’t allow public drinking. The city’s current fine for public consumption of alcohol or any open containers is €90!

✅ Second, don’t litter.

You may see trash on the streets, but don’t become part of the problem. Hold onto your trash and recycling until you find the proper bins.

✅ Third, don’t assume that since you are in a popular tourist city everyone knows English.

Always start a conversation by asking if they know any English, and if not, hopefully you learned a few useful phrases in the local language!

What Month is Best to See Europe?

This completely depends on your tolerance of weather and tourists.

If you want the nicest weather, longest daylight hours, and longest opening hours at all of the attractions, then the best months to visit Europe are between June and August.

If you have a low tolerance for tens of thousands of other tourists, then you should avoid the summer months and visit in the shoulder months of May and September.

The winter months can be especially enjoyable if you enjoy winter sports and holiday markets, but tourist levels will be high during this time, as well.

How Do I Not Look Like a Tourist in Europe?

To avoid looking like a tourist, wear semi-nice clothing and avoid pulling out your map or travel guide at every turn in the road.

Tourists are easily spotted by their bulky backpacks and large cameras, so try to limit what you walk around with and fit in with the locals as best you can.

What Should You Not Wear in Europe?

✅ Try not to dress too sloppy or too nice.

Europeans dress casually, but still well, every day of the week. Avoid wearing baggy sweatpants or ball gowns down the street as you may attract some unwanted attention.

✅ Avoid wearing heels since cobblestoned streets are typically everywhere throughout Europe along with rolling hills and uneven sidewalks.

Good walking shoes are a must!

✅ Also, avoid political, racial, or inappropriate clothing.

It’s okay to be you and stand out with your own style, but wearing offensive or inappropriate clothing is going to attract the wrong attention that you likely don’t want.

How Much Money do you Need Per Day to Travel in Europe?

The amount of money you need per day to travel in Europe depends on your spending habits and the type of trip you are planning. For a budget backpacker, it is possible to get by on as little as $25-35 USD per day.

However, if you want more comfort and luxury, then you should plan to spend closer to $100 USD per day or more. The cost will also increase significantly if you are hoping for an accommodation with breakfast included, a pool, or multiple beds and a view.

The amount of money per day you’ll need to budget will also vary greatly depending on the countries you choose to visit (I can’t stress this one enough!)

You’ll find Portugal to be far more affordable than Switzerland or Ireland, and will need to ensure you take into account which countries you plan on visiting before and after setting your budget.

Is $5000 Enough to Travel Europe?

Unfortunately, it’s very difficult to say whether or not $5,000 is enough money for your trip to Europe. We would need to consider your length of trip, your destinations, your accommodation choices, food preferences, and so forth.

Now, can you visit Europe with $5,000? Absolutely! I’ve done it with less than $1,000 coming from New England and had money to spare on my return home. However, I was staying in hostels, backpacking, sitting in luggage carts on trains, and so forth. Don’t worry… I’ve upgraded my budget since college.

You can certainly plan an incredible European vacation with $5,000, but how far it gets you will be entirely up to you. You could make $5k last 2 months or 2 days depending on how you want to enjoy your trip and the accommodations and activities you choose.

How Much Money Should I Save for a 3 Week Trip to Europe?

The amount of money you should save for a 3-week trip to Europe can vary widely based on various factors such as your travel style, the countries you plan to visit, and the time of year. If you prefer budget traveling, staying in hostels, eating at cheap places, and minimizing your activities, you might get by on an estimate of $75-$100 USD per day.

For a more comfortable but still budget-conscious trip, a daily budget of around $150-$200 USD would be more suitable, covering a decent hotel, restaurant meals, and admission fees for attractions.

For a luxury experience, you might need more than $300 USD per day. Therefore, for a 3-week trip, your savings should range between $1,575 – $6,300 USD.

Always remember to add a little extra for emergencies or unexpected expenses. However, these are rough estimates, and the actual amounts may vary. Be sure to do your research on the specific costs related to your chosen destinations and planned activities.

How Much Does a 1 Week Trip in Europe Cost?

If you’re planning a trip to Europe for 1 week, you’ll need to create a budget based on your destinations, the time of the year, where you’ll be staying, restaurants and food, attractions, and so forth.

Add up the cost of every place you want to stay (before booking) in addition to everything you want to do while you’re there.

This will give you a good idea of how much money you need for the trip. Generally, for a budget-friendly 1 week trip, you should plan to spend around $500 – $950 USD. If you want more comfort and luxury, expect to allocate at least $1,400 USD or more.

Also remember to factor in additional costs such as airfare and transportation expenses. With careful budgeting and research, you can plan a great European vacation with almost any amount of money.

Traveling to Europe for the first time is a truly wonderful experience! Now that you know what to do and what to avoid, you are bound to have a wonderful first trip to Europe.