The Complete Guide to Traveling in Europe:
From the well-traveled interior cities in the west to the charming, daring, and historic villages in the east, Europe unites a range of cultures.
Taking a short rail ride or a domestic flight makes traveling from one nation to another simple. If, however, this is your first trip to Europe, you may require assistance with your planning.
Explore some lesser-known jewels in addition to the must-see destination spots. Acquire the skill of maneuvering through every city you encounter. Get tips on organizing an exciting, discovery-focused trip to Europe.
How to Select a Destination in Europe
It is possible to see both western and eastern Europe during a European vacation. Although both zones are somewhat loosely defined, it is generally useful to be aware of the differences between the two regions when traveling around Europe.
Although there are a lot of tourists in Western Europe, each destination offers its visitors something different.
Europe’s West
The western European countries are home to well-known vacation spots including France, Italy, Spain, and England as well as numerous globally renowned cities that are major draws for tourists visiting the continent. Among these well-known cities are London, Paris, Rome, and Barcelona.
World-famous sites in Western Europe include Buckingham Palace, the Roman Colosseum, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and the Eiffel Tower. The area is renowned for its lengthy history and its regional museums, which highlight the inventiveness and culture of each nation.
Traveling within the western European countries is also relatively straightforward because of the dependable public transit system.
You can travel freely between the 26 European nations that have signed the Schengen Agreement if you have a Schengen visa. Since most of these nations are in Western Europe, traveling around this region is much easier.
The euro is the currency used in the majority of Western European nations, so you won’t need to convert money when you travel to another nation.
English speakers who are hesitant to learn a new language will find that Western Europe, where English is widely spoken, is a great place to visit.
Remember that travel costs are often higher in Western European nations than in Eastern European countries.
Remember that travel costs are often higher in Western European nations than in Eastern European ones. In major cities like Paris or Rome, amenities like lodging, dining, and shopping are often more expensive.
Europe’s East
Eastern Europe consists of nations such as Slovenia, Croatia, Poland, Czech Republic, and Russia. The folks in this area are renowned for being amiable. Indeed, Days to Come, an online travel magazine, asserts that “its people are famous for hospitality.”
Although there aren’t as many tourists in this part of Europe, its history and scenery, which range from charming little villages to vibrant metropolises with a vibrant arts scene, may be very amazing. The cities that receive the most tourists include Moscow, Prague, Budapest, and Montenegro.
There are benefits for those wishing for a longer stay or looking for a more economical way to travel in Europe, such as more reasonably priced lodging and dining options.
Particularly in smaller towns, local transit is less accessible, and there is a significant currency disparity in the area. These lesser-known places, however, are perfect for travelers looking for a unique experience and a chance to take in the breathtaking scenery of the surrounding area.
Famous Places in Europe (and Undiscovered Treasures)
Europe offers a plethora of appealing travel destinations for both novice and seasoned global adventurers. Discover interesting hidden treasures and thriving cities around the region. All you have to do is know where to search.
This list will assist you in getting going.
Select from These Well-liked European Locations
France’s Paris
Paris, the well-known capital of France and one of the most visited cities in the world, goes by the nickname “City of Lights.” The city is incredibly proud of its iconic Eiffel Tower, which was built in the 1880s. It is still a massive building that can be seen all throughout the city from balconies and rooftops.
Situated at the terminus of Paris’s renowned Champs-Élysées, the Arc de Triomphe is another well-known landmark in the city. Constructed during the early 1700s, the summit of the building offers a complete 360-degree perspective of the city.
Remember to visit the famed Louvre Museum, which is home to the Mona Lisa and many other well-known pieces, as well as the venerable Cathédrale de Notre-Dame.
A visit to the neighborhood bakeries and cafés in Paris is also necessary if you want to sample their delectable pastries and exquisite desserts.
Italy’s Rome
Rome is regarded as one of Europe’s oldest cities that has been inhabited continuously. Numerous historical sites that chronicle the lengthy history of the city may be found in this Italian capital.
A visit to the renowned Colosseum is enough to astound any observer. Constructed in the year 70 AD, this architectural marvel was the biggest amphitheater at the time and still leaves millions of tourists in awe each year.
Don’t miss Palatine Hill while you’re there; it’s said to be the city’s original foundation and is home to palaces from the Roman Empire as well as other ancient remains.
Visit impressive churches in Rome, such as the Pantheon, a converted Roman temple that is now a Catholic church and was consecrated in AD 126, and St. Peter’s Basilica, the biggest basilica in the world.
England’s London
The capital of England is located in the southeast of the United Kingdom. This global metropolis is a hub of the economy and is home to several well-known landmarks and museums that chronicle London’s history going all the way back to the Roman era.
Spend a day studying and exploring at the British Museum or take in the Guard Change at Buckingham Palace.
Situated at the bank of the River Thames stands the iconic Ferris wheel known as the London Eye. Take in vistas of the Palace of Westminster and Big Ben, two of the city’s numerous iconic landmarks.
For those who are prepared to travel a little farther north of the city, there is the famed Abby Road, which served as the setting for the equally named Beatles album.
The Netherlands’ Amsterdam
Symbolic images of this country’s capital showcase the city’s elaborate canal network and historic bridges. Arguably the most well-known is the Magere Brug, which is illuminated nightly for walkers.
Additionally, observe that more than 60% of city commuters commute by bicycle, as reported on the Dutch Amsterdam website. This special feature necessitates a variety of bike lanes around the city.
Visit the renowned Van Gough Museum in Amsterdam to see the works of famed artist Vincent Van Gogh and discover more about his life. Don’t forget to pay a visit to the somber Anne Frank House, which is visited by over a million people annually and has a biographical museum dedicated to the famous World War II diarist.
To learn more about Heineken’s first brewery, consider joining the Heineken Experience tour in Amsterdam.
Greece’s Santorini
An island in the Aegean Sea is called Santorini. A volcanic explosion that ravaged it in the sixteenth century BC left the untamed terrain in its distinctive form.
The underwater crater that the volcano left behind is visible from the whitewashed cottages that are nestled into the island’s cliffs. With its domed churches and stunning vistas, the island is still a distinctive and charming tourist destination.
A ancient settlement called Akortiri was obliterated by the volcanic explosion. A noteworthy location to learn about the island’s past is these ruins. In addition, hundreds of thousands of people go to the Santorini caldera each year to see the breathtaking Aegean Sea sunset.
Remember These Undiscovered Treasures in Europe
There are a lot of other stunning and intriguing cities in Europe that are less well-known worldwide. Put these places on your bucket list if you’re looking for some off-the-beaten-path adventure.
Switzerland’s Basel
Based on figures from the UN, Basel is a town in northwest Switzerland with a population of around 200,000. With its gothic cathedral from the 12th century and its Town Hall from the 16th, this medieval town will make you feel as though you’ve traveled back in time.
In Basel, the Basel Münster Cathedral is undoubtedly the most well-known monument (Basel Culture Unlimited). The cathedral has a gothic architectural style with walls constructed of sandstone and colorful roof tiles.
Twin skyscrapers that soar above the city serve as its pinnacle.
Don’t miss the opportunity to view world-renowned Swiss artwork at the Tinguely Museum.
Travelers who wish to plan their vacation to Basel around the annual Basel Carnival may expect a great cultural experience. Ash Wednesday marks the start of the three-day event, which includes cheerful instruments and artistic displays.
Take note that the celebration starts at precisely 4 a.m. on the first day, when thousands of hand-painted lights illuminate the pitch-black city and loud music fills the air. It’s a special occasion that should not be missed.
Slovenia’s Bovec
This mountain village in northern Slovenia is ideal for everyone who enjoys outdoor activities and is looking for a different kind of view.
East of Bovec is Triglav National Park, an ideal place for Julian Alps rafting, hiking, and mountain biking. The park is composed of mountains, woods, and glacial lakes.
For those who want to experience the thrill of skiing the Alps, visitors can spend the day at Kanin Cable Car, the nearby ski resort.
When not engaged in strenuous outdoor activities, tourists to Bovec can explore the 1472 fortified fortress known as Kluže Fortress. It was believed that the Friuli were protected by it from the Turks.
Split, Croatia
After Zagreb, Split is the second-biggest city in Croatia. Discover the city’s metropolitan amenities and ancient ruins and attractions.
The primary destination in Split is the Diocletian’s Palace. In the third century, the Roman Emperor Diocletian resided on a 30,000 square meter villa. The historic structures are now home to a large number of stores, cafés, restaurants, and residences.
The Emperor Diocletian Mausoleum houses the Cathedral of Saint Domnius. As the oldest cathedral in Europe, it is still used by Catholics for worship.
There are many of eateries and pubs along the boardwalk at The Riva, which is a well-liked pedestrian area. Much of Split’s nightlife is concentrated here, and it faces the Diocletian Palace.
Along this promenade, public cultural activities are also frequently held. Visit one of the eateries for a quick bite to eat, or spend the evening at one of the numerous pubs along this strip with friends.
Accommodation Choices in Europe
Europe offers travelers a wide range of lodging choices, from conventional chain hotels to spending the night in a medieval castle.
Accommodations / Specialty Hotels
The majority of Europe’s populous cities have classic hotels. Boutique hotels are available in both large cities and smaller villages for those seeking a cozier or more local choice with the advantages of hotel services.
Breakfasts and Beds
A bed and breakfast (B&B) might offer a private room with free breakfast at a lower cost. Airbnb is a popular website for listing available rooms and apartments for rent.
Hostels
For budget-conscious tourists or backpackers, these hostel-style lodgings could be perfect. They are a great place to meet other travelers and obtain advice on where to go next, even though they don’t have many facilities. To locate hostels in Europe, use websites such as Hostel World.
House Stays
With Homestay.com, you may stay with a native European family. This local experience lets you meet a local family and is usually more economical.
Parador, Castello, Chateau, and Castle
Spend a night at a castle whilst traveling around Europe. Modern facilities have been added to several castles around Europe, creating a one-of-a-kind hotel experience.
Since these accommodations are usually more expensive, you may want to look into a list of the top European castles for a honeymoon, anniversary, or birthday celebration. A selection of reasonably priced castle hotels may also be found on the Travel Leisure website.
Estate Manor / Villas
In the rural areas of Europe, you may rent a room or a whole opulent home. Large country estates or rural mansions that were formerly held by European aristocracy or nobility are a popular destination for travelers seeking an upscale experience.
Orient yourself towards European Transportation
While there are many different ways to get about Europe, there are a few popular ways to think about while going both locally and far away.
Local conveyance
- The majority of large cities, including Paris, London, Berlin, and Rome, have an underground subway system.
- Located in bigger and medium-sized cities is the public bus or tram.
- In Paris, city bike rentals are very common.
- Ridesharing: The most well-known ridesharing services are Uber and BlaBlaCar.
Transportation across Long Distances
- Bus: To locate reasonably priced bus travel choices, use OuiBus and Flixbus.
- Budget Airline: Low-cost carriers like EasyJet, Ryanair, and Vueling are well-liked for cross-European travel.
- Train: For those who want to take several long-distance train journeys, an inexpensive choice is a Eurail pass. Nomadic Matt, a travel blogger, created a blog article explaining Eurail passes and when they might be necessary.
- When renting a car in Europe, make sure to consult the Earth Trekkers’ Guide.
European Traditions
Though there are many diverse cultures in Europe, following these general guidelines will help make sure visitors are kind to others.
Tipping
Tipping fulfills its traditional function of rewarding wait staff for their hard work by leaving a little amount of additional cash. But American society, which pays low salaries and relies heavily on gratuities to make up for it, has left a lasting impression on many big cities.
nearby shopping
In Europe, greetings such as “hello” or “good morning” are expected when you walk into a local store. Acquire the ability to pronounce these words even if you are not a native speaker.
Verses
According to a European Commission report, about 90% of Europeans are conversant in at least two languages. This is advantageous for anxious tourists who wish to visit a nation but lack the time to pick up a new language.
In Europe, the following languages are the most commonly spoken:
- English
- French
- German
- Spanish
- primarily in Eastern Europe) in Russian
Larger towns and popular tourist spots frequently offer guidance in several languages to assist guests as well.
In order to be polite and helpful in circumstances where people might not speak the language or languages you do, it is advisable to attempt learning at least a few common phrases in the local tongue.
Budget Travel Tips for Europe
Traveling, particularly abroad, has a tendency to become costly very quickly. To make the most of both your money and the experience, take into consideration these budget travel suggestions for Europe.
- Plan Ahead: The most economical travel alternatives are available to those who take the time to consider where they want to go and how they will get there.
- Travel Off-Season: Steer clear of the summer months when lodging costs are higher. Think about taking a trip from October to April.
- Seek for Free Walking excursions: Without breaking the bank, Sandeman’s New Europe Tours and Free Tours by Foot provide excursions of several European towns.
- Travel to Eastern Europe: You’ll usually find cheaper lodging and dining options.
- Steer clear of Restaurants in Touristy Areas: Eat at locations further from tourist attractions as prices are frequently higher there.
- Think about B&Bs or hostels; these are usually less expensive options, but they usually have less facilities.
- Invest in a museum pass. The Roma Pass and the Paris Museum Pass are two affordable options for people who visit a lot of museums or other sites.
- Get the Best Budget Travel Guide by Downloading It Now. guidance from actual full-time travelers as well as Eastern European-specific guidance may be found in this free budget travel guide.
Do Not Forget to Bring These Essentials
Depending on the destination and season, there are differences in what to pack for a vacation to Europe. If you intend to do some touring in the city, make sure you pack appropriate walking shoes. Those who wish to participate in outdoor activities must pack the appropriate clothing.
Before packing, check the weather in the place or places you intend to travel. Don’t forget to add these four necessities as well:
- plug adapter with electronics
- The passport
- Schengen visa (you can check whether you need one here): this permits visitors to move freely between the 26 member nations.
- Learn about travel medical insurance and the reasons you might require it.
Sites and Resources That Simplify Travel to Europe
There may be many concerns and uncertainties when navigating a new place and your planning process. A more intelligent travel experience is guaranteed with this selection of applications, travel information websites, and websites for lodging and transportation.
Applications
- TripIt is an iOS or Android travel planning app.
- City Mapper: iOS or Android for city transportation
- Google Translate: iOS or Android app for language translations