After traveling to Europe for the past 20 years, I\u2019ve learned all of the best tips and tricks. These Europe travel tips cover everything you NEED to know so you can travel to Europe prepared!<\/p>\n
Whether it\u2019s your first time traveling Europe or you visit multiple times per year, avoiding some of the most common travel mistakes will make your trip so much more enjoyable! A little planning goes a long way and these travel tips for Europe will help you be a smarter and more relaxed European traveler.<\/p>\n
![\"10](\"https:\/\/ordinarytraveler.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/Best-Tips-Traveling-Europe.jpg\" "\\"Europe")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\nEurope Travel Tips<\/h2>\n1. Check Visa Requirements<\/h3>\nIf you travel to Europe from the US, one guaranteed way to ruin your trip is being denied entry into the country you are visiting because you don\u2019t have a tourist visa. While most countries in Europe don\u2019t require a visa for short visits, it\u2019s best to know which countries do.<\/p>\n
Prior to your trip, a quick search online will find tourist visa requirements and whether you need to acquire a visa upon arrival at the airport or online prior to arrival. There are several websites online that list visa requirements, so find out ahead of time.<\/p>\n
Read more: My 65 Best Travel Tips<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n\n![\"10](\"https:\/\/ordinarytraveler.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/Ten-Europe-Travel-Tips.jpg\" "\\"10")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n2. Travel Europe in the Off Season<\/h3>\nWant to know how to travel Europe affordably? While you might dream of sunbathing upon the Mediterranean beaches during the summer months, so does the rest of Europe \u2014 causing overcrowded beaches, long queues at tourist attractions and higher prices.<\/p>\n
Traveling during the off season is the best way to avoid the crowds and save money on accommodations, airfare, train tickets and tours. Most of the main tourist attractions are open year-round, just make sure to check closing times as some might have shorter hours during the off-peak travel season.<\/p>\n
Read more: How to Travel Expensive Countries Affordably<\/a> and Essential Guide to Train Travel in Europe<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n\n![\"10](\"https:\/\/ordinarytraveler.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/10-Best-Europe-Travel-Tips.jpg\" "\\"10")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n3. Use Budget Airlines<\/h3>\nWith more than a dozen budget airline carriers throughout Europe, every European traveler knows that you can fly to almost anywhere on the continent for cheap when booking with a budget airline. Airfare will often be cheaper than train tickets, but the least expensive seats tend to sell out the fastest.<\/p>\n
While you might be getting a bargain on airfare, make sure to check for additional fees and taxes which are often not included in the advertised rate. Also avoid sizeable baggage fees by researching each airline\u2019s rules on hand baggage and luggage size. Packing light will help you avoid baggage fees and let you ease through the airport!<\/p>\n
Read more: How To Find Cheap Flights To Anywhere<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n4. Travel by Train<\/h3>\nTraveling by train in Europe is often efficient \u2014 and depending on your destination \u2014 easier than air travel. Book your ticket at the train station with an actual person because some options are not available at the kiosks. Be sure to validate your ticket before you hop on the train to avoid fines!<\/p>\n
Read more: A Step-By-Step Guide To Backpacking Europe<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n\n![\"10](\"https:\/\/ordinarytraveler.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/Best-Europe-Travel-Tips.jpg\" "\\"10")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n5. Make Reservations in Advance<\/h3>\nMaking reservations in advance is the best way to secure accommodations and tours, especially in peak travel season. Booking airfare, hotels, train tickets, and tours in advance also ensures that you are getting the best price.<\/p>\n
Read more: The Best Weekend Trips in Europe<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n\n![\"10](\"https:\/\/ordinarytraveler.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/10-Travel-Tips-for-Europe.jpg\" "\\"10")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n6. Bring Comfortable Shoes to Walk Everywhere<\/h3>\nAs one of the best ways to explore a city, you will do lots of walking during your European vacation, therefore having a pair of comfortable walking shoes (these are my go-to shoes<\/a>!) is a must. After a long day of walking around the city, your feet will thank you!<\/p>\n Read more: How to Choose the Best Shoes for Travel<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n7. Bring a Suitcase You Can Carry<\/h3>\nNavigating the train station, walking on cobblestone streets, carrying your luggage up several flights of stairs at your hotel (often European hotels don\u2019t have elevators) or accruing extra baggage fees, packing light in a suitcase you can carry is a must!<\/p>\n
You won\u2019t need as much as you think and laundromats are readily available throughout Europe if you need to do laundry during your trip.<\/p>\n
Read more: How to Choose the Best Luggage for Your Next Trip<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n8. Stay Longer in One Place<\/h3>\nStaying in one place longer can allow you to experience the city or neighborhood like a local. Making friends with locals, finding local restaurants restaurants and venturing off the beaten path, can make for exciting travel stories and often the most memorable experiences.<\/p>\n
Read more: Do You Need an International Driver\u2019s Permit?<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n\n![\"10](\"https:\/\/ordinarytraveler.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/10-Tips-For-Traveling-Europe.jpg\" "\\"10")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n9. Get Off the Beaten Path<\/h3>\nBy all means seeing the popular attractions in a city is a must. While your heart might be set on visiting the most popular attractions, you should make it a point to visit lesser known sites. Ask the locals for recommendations, often you will get a better glimpse at the local culture when doing so. You can also research off the beaten path experiences in travel books and online.<\/p>\n
Read more: Visiting Lake Eibsee & Garmisch-Partenkirchen in Germany<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n10. Don\u2019t Plan on Using Credit Cards Everywhere<\/h3>\nWhile it seems that most of the world now accepts credit cards, it\u2019s not uncommon for places in Europe to only accept cash. Having euros on hand for tips, taxi rides, restaurants, purchases at local markets and daily activities will make your transactions go smoother and it will save you money on foreign transaction fees.<\/p>\n
I recommend visiting an ATM at the airport upon arrival. Airport ATMs don\u2019t always have the best exchange rate, but it\u2019s better than finding yourself stuck without any cash or searching for an ATM while you\u2019re jetlagged.<\/p>\n
Also, be sure to notify your bank and credit card company before traveling so you don\u2019t find your accounts frozen.<\/p>\n
Packing Essentials for Europe<\/h3>\n Travel Umbrella:<\/strong>\u00a0It\u2019s always a good idea to pack a small\u00a0travel umbrella<\/a>\u00a0\u2014 especially during the winter and spring.<\/p>\n Earplugs:\u00a0<\/strong>Bring a pair of decent\u00a0earplugs<\/a>\u00a0just in case you end up in a noisy location. I find that I\u2019m always using my earplugs in Europe hotels and Airbnbs<\/a>.<\/p>\n Daypack<\/strong>:<\/strong>\u00a0You\u2019ll need something to carry your phone, camera and souveniers while you\u2019re out exploring in Europe. I love this medium sized purse that also converts into a backpack<\/a>!<\/p>\n Sunglasses<\/strong>:<\/strong>\u00a0Don\u2019t forget your sunnies \u2014 even in winter. This pair of aviators<\/a> come with a case!<\/p>\n Travel Adapter<\/strong>:<\/strong>\u00a0You don\u2019t want to be stuck without a way to charge your electronics once you get to your hotel. This all-in-one travel adapter<\/a> lets you simultaneously charge 5 devices and can be used in the USA, Europe, United Kingdom and Australia, so you won\u2019t have to buy a separate adapter for each trip!<\/p>\n Face Moisturizer with SPF<\/strong>:<\/strong>\u00a0Traveling with a daily moisturizer that also has SPF<\/a> is a must for me. You\u2019ll never forget to put on sunblock again!<\/p>\n Water Bottle<\/strong>:<\/strong>\u00a0I ALWAYS carry a water bottle when I\u2019m traveling. It\u2019s so much better for the environment, it reminds me to hydrate, and I save so much money on unnecessary water purchases. This collapsible water bottle<\/a> is a no-brainer since it folds up when you\u2019re not using it.<\/p>\nFAQs: Travel Tips for Europe<\/h2>\n\nWhat is the best way to travel between countries in Europe?<\/strong> <\/p>\nThe easiest way to travel in Europe is by train. Traveling by train in Europe is efficient and generally affordable. You can also purchase a rail pass that covers multiple countries. Read our full guide to train travel in Europe<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\nWhen is the cheapest time to visit Europe?<\/strong> <\/p>\nFor budget travelers, the late fall and winter months, spanning from mid to late October through mid-to-late March, is often the most affordable time of year to fly to Europe (excluding potential fare spikes in December). Consider booking your flight for a mid-week departure, especially on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, as these days frequently offer lower airfare options.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n
Should I buy euros before I go to Europe?<\/strong> <\/p>\nThere is no need to purchase euros before your trip to Europe. It is advisable to wait until you arrive at your destination to withdraw money at a bank or ATM, as this allows you to secure more favorable exchange rates.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n
\u00a0
\nPlan Your Trip<\/b><\/p>\n<\/center>After traveling consistently for over 15 years, we\u2019ve come to trust and rely on a few websites to help us find the best deals on flights and accommodation.<\/p>\n
Flights:<\/b> Going<\/a> is the first place we check when searching for cheap flights. If you sign up for their email alerts, you\u2019ll receive flight deals at up to 90% off. I have traveled all over the world using their flight deals.<\/p>\nAccommodation:<\/b> Booking.com<\/a> offers savings on hotels, apartments, and villas in 80,000 destinations worldwide. You can browse hotel reviews and find the guaranteed best price on hotels for all budgets.<\/p>\nTravel Insurance:<\/b> We never travel without a travel insurance policy<\/a> because it\u2019s not worth the risk! We use and trust Visitors Coverage<\/a>, which we\u2019ve used for the past 10 years.<\/p>\nLet us book your trip!<\/b> Looking for a Travel Advisor to help you plan your trip? Contact us here<\/a> for more information!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
If you travel to Europe from the US, one guaranteed way to ruin your trip is being denied entry into the country you are visiting because you don\u2019t have a tourist visa. While most countries in Europe don\u2019t require a visa for short visits, it\u2019s best to know which countries do.<\/p>\n
Prior to your trip, a quick search online will find tourist visa requirements and whether you need to acquire a visa upon arrival at the airport or online prior to arrival. There are several websites online that list visa requirements, so find out ahead of time.<\/p>\n
Read more: My 65 Best Travel Tips<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n Want to know how to travel Europe affordably? While you might dream of sunbathing upon the Mediterranean beaches during the summer months, so does the rest of Europe \u2014 causing overcrowded beaches, long queues at tourist attractions and higher prices.<\/p>\n Traveling during the off season is the best way to avoid the crowds and save money on accommodations, airfare, train tickets and tours. Most of the main tourist attractions are open year-round, just make sure to check closing times as some might have shorter hours during the off-peak travel season.<\/p>\n Read more: How to Travel Expensive Countries Affordably<\/a> and Essential Guide to Train Travel in Europe<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n With more than a dozen budget airline carriers throughout Europe, every European traveler knows that you can fly to almost anywhere on the continent for cheap when booking with a budget airline. Airfare will often be cheaper than train tickets, but the least expensive seats tend to sell out the fastest.<\/p>\n While you might be getting a bargain on airfare, make sure to check for additional fees and taxes which are often not included in the advertised rate. Also avoid sizeable baggage fees by researching each airline\u2019s rules on hand baggage and luggage size. Packing light will help you avoid baggage fees and let you ease through the airport!<\/p>\n Read more: How To Find Cheap Flights To Anywhere<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n Traveling by train in Europe is often efficient \u2014 and depending on your destination \u2014 easier than air travel. Book your ticket at the train station with an actual person because some options are not available at the kiosks. Be sure to validate your ticket before you hop on the train to avoid fines!<\/p>\n Read more: A Step-By-Step Guide To Backpacking Europe<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n Making reservations in advance is the best way to secure accommodations and tours, especially in peak travel season. Booking airfare, hotels, train tickets, and tours in advance also ensures that you are getting the best price.<\/p>\n Read more: The Best Weekend Trips in Europe<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n As one of the best ways to explore a city, you will do lots of walking during your European vacation, therefore having a pair of comfortable walking shoes (these are my go-to shoes<\/a>!) is a must. After a long day of walking around the city, your feet will thank you!<\/p>\n Read more: How to Choose the Best Shoes for Travel<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n Navigating the train station, walking on cobblestone streets, carrying your luggage up several flights of stairs at your hotel (often European hotels don\u2019t have elevators) or accruing extra baggage fees, packing light in a suitcase you can carry is a must!<\/p>\n You won\u2019t need as much as you think and laundromats are readily available throughout Europe if you need to do laundry during your trip.<\/p>\n Read more: How to Choose the Best Luggage for Your Next Trip<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n Staying in one place longer can allow you to experience the city or neighborhood like a local. Making friends with locals, finding local restaurants restaurants and venturing off the beaten path, can make for exciting travel stories and often the most memorable experiences.<\/p>\n Read more: Do You Need an International Driver\u2019s Permit?<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n By all means seeing the popular attractions in a city is a must. While your heart might be set on visiting the most popular attractions, you should make it a point to visit lesser known sites. Ask the locals for recommendations, often you will get a better glimpse at the local culture when doing so. You can also research off the beaten path experiences in travel books and online.<\/p>\n Read more: Visiting Lake Eibsee & Garmisch-Partenkirchen in Germany<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n While it seems that most of the world now accepts credit cards, it\u2019s not uncommon for places in Europe to only accept cash. Having euros on hand for tips, taxi rides, restaurants, purchases at local markets and daily activities will make your transactions go smoother and it will save you money on foreign transaction fees.<\/p>\n I recommend visiting an ATM at the airport upon arrival. Airport ATMs don\u2019t always have the best exchange rate, but it\u2019s better than finding yourself stuck without any cash or searching for an ATM while you\u2019re jetlagged.<\/p>\n Also, be sure to notify your bank and credit card company before traveling so you don\u2019t find your accounts frozen.<\/p>\n Travel Umbrella:<\/strong>\u00a0It\u2019s always a good idea to pack a small\u00a0travel umbrella<\/a>\u00a0\u2014 especially during the winter and spring.<\/p>\n Earplugs:\u00a0<\/strong>Bring a pair of decent\u00a0earplugs<\/a>\u00a0just in case you end up in a noisy location. I find that I\u2019m always using my earplugs in Europe hotels and Airbnbs<\/a>.<\/p>\n Daypack<\/strong>:<\/strong>\u00a0You\u2019ll need something to carry your phone, camera and souveniers while you\u2019re out exploring in Europe. I love this medium sized purse that also converts into a backpack<\/a>!<\/p>\n Sunglasses<\/strong>:<\/strong>\u00a0Don\u2019t forget your sunnies \u2014 even in winter. This pair of aviators<\/a> come with a case!<\/p>\n Travel Adapter<\/strong>:<\/strong>\u00a0You don\u2019t want to be stuck without a way to charge your electronics once you get to your hotel. This all-in-one travel adapter<\/a> lets you simultaneously charge 5 devices and can be used in the USA, Europe, United Kingdom and Australia, so you won\u2019t have to buy a separate adapter for each trip!<\/p>\n Face Moisturizer with SPF<\/strong>:<\/strong>\u00a0Traveling with a daily moisturizer that also has SPF<\/a> is a must for me. You\u2019ll never forget to put on sunblock again!<\/p>\n Water Bottle<\/strong>:<\/strong>\u00a0I ALWAYS carry a water bottle when I\u2019m traveling. It\u2019s so much better for the environment, it reminds me to hydrate, and I save so much money on unnecessary water purchases. This collapsible water bottle<\/a> is a no-brainer since it folds up when you\u2019re not using it.<\/p>\n The easiest way to travel in Europe is by train. Traveling by train in Europe is efficient and generally affordable. You can also purchase a rail pass that covers multiple countries. Read our full guide to train travel in Europe<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n For budget travelers, the late fall and winter months, spanning from mid to late October through mid-to-late March, is often the most affordable time of year to fly to Europe (excluding potential fare spikes in December). Consider booking your flight for a mid-week departure, especially on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, as these days frequently offer lower airfare options.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n There is no need to purchase euros before your trip to Europe. It is advisable to wait until you arrive at your destination to withdraw money at a bank or ATM, as this allows you to secure more favorable exchange rates.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n <\/center>After traveling consistently for over 15 years, we\u2019ve come to trust and rely on a few websites to help us find the best deals on flights and accommodation.<\/p>\n Flights:<\/b> Going<\/a> is the first place we check when searching for cheap flights. If you sign up for their email alerts, you\u2019ll receive flight deals at up to 90% off. I have traveled all over the world using their flight deals.<\/p>\n Accommodation:<\/b> Booking.com<\/a> offers savings on hotels, apartments, and villas in 80,000 destinations worldwide. You can browse hotel reviews and find the guaranteed best price on hotels for all budgets.<\/p>\n Travel Insurance:<\/b> We never travel without a travel insurance policy<\/a> because it\u2019s not worth the risk! We use and trust Visitors Coverage<\/a>, which we\u2019ve used for the past 10 years.<\/p>\n Let us book your trip!<\/b> Looking for a Travel Advisor to help you plan your trip? Contact us here<\/a> for more information!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n2. Travel Europe in the Off Season<\/h3>\n
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n3. Use Budget Airlines<\/h3>\n
4. Travel by Train<\/h3>\n
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n5. Make Reservations in Advance<\/h3>\n
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n6. Bring Comfortable Shoes to Walk Everywhere<\/h3>\n
7. Bring a Suitcase You Can Carry<\/h3>\n
8. Stay Longer in One Place<\/h3>\n
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n9. Get Off the Beaten Path<\/h3>\n
10. Don\u2019t Plan on Using Credit Cards Everywhere<\/h3>\n
Packing Essentials for Europe<\/h3>\n
FAQs: Travel Tips for Europe<\/h2>\n
\n