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The Ultimate Europe Travel Guide
By Nathan Mahr MONEY RESEARCH COLLECTIVE
Europe is the ultimate dream getaway for many travelers. This continent is home to thousands of years of history, stunning landscapes, incredible cuisine and an array of cultures that make for a truly unique experience. Whether you’re looking to explore the cobbled streets of Vienna, ski down rolling Swiss hills or take a sun-soaked Mediterranean cruise through Greece, Europe has something for everyone. We’ve created the following ultimate Europe travel guide to help you plan the trip of a lifetime.
Table of contents
Get a Free QuoteEverything to know about European travel
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the planning that goes into creating an unforgettable European trip. To make it easier, we’ve broken down the essentials of European travel into sections covering the best destinations, activities, accommodation options and authentic foods to try.
Where to go in Europe — the top European destinations
Due to Europe’s sheer size and incredible cultural density, narrowing down your list of destinations can be difficult. However, there are some standout European cities to consider visiting. The following cities offer unique experiences that will stay with you for years to come:
- Paris, France: The City of Lights is a classic Western European destination. From its iconic Eiffel Tower to the charming cafes and boutiques of Montmartre, Paris holds a distinctive charm you won’t find anywhere else. For those looking for something more off the beaten path, consider exploring the many antique shops in Le Marais.
- Prague, Czech Republic: Prague is home to some of Eastern Europe’s most well-preserved architecture and hosts a delightfully picturesque cityscape. Spend your days exploring the winding streets of Old Town, admiring the views from Prague Castle and sampling traditional Czech cuisine. Don’t forget to take a walk across the city’s famous Charles Bridge for unrivaled views.
- Amsterdam, Netherlands: This Dutch gem is known for its canals, unique museums and bustling nightlife. Take a boat tour down iconic canals while taking in the city’s iconic architecture before finishing off the day with a visit to one of the city’s famous cafes.
- Rome, Italy: The Eternal City is a must-see for any traveler. Whether you’re exploring the Colosseum or basking in the intricate beauty of the Trevi Fountain, Rome is brimming with ancient monuments. Be sure to carve out a day or two to explore the cobbled streets of Trastevere, wander through Rome’s many piazzas and enjoy one of the city’s immersive walking tours.
This is just a small sampling of the top destinations. Europe has many more amazing areas to explore. Visitors seeking lots of sunlight can head to the Greek islands or southern Spain, while nature lovers can venture to the Alps or the stunning fjords of Norway. For a blend of culture and relaxation, consider spending time in the countryside, like Tuscany or Provence.
Popular activities to do in Europe
While you may be focused entirely on choosing destinations, remember that the real memories come from the things you’ll do while you’re there. Here are some of the diverse activities available in different areas of Europe:
- Go on a gondola ride in Venice, Italy: Although this can be expensive, it’s worth it for the romantic experience of cutting through the canals in a luxurious gondola (or a water taxi if you want to cover more ground). This will allow you to take in the beauty of Venice from a different vantage point.
- Take a hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia, Turkey: Nothing compares to the experience of soaring above the breathtaking terrain of Cappadocia in a hot air balloon. With the sun rising above the horizon, you’ll take in this unique region’s rocky landscape on an unforgettable journey.
- Shop at local markets in Barcelona, Spain: From the famed La Boqueria market to the Mercat de Sant Antoni, Barcelona is the perfect place for a shopping enthusiast. Sample local delicacies, peruse handmade crafts and take home unique souvenirs.
- Take a bike tour in Amsterdam, Netherlands: Amsterdam is a cyclist’s paradise. Biking is the best way to explore its winding canals, beautiful parks and vibrant neighborhoods.
Accommodation options available in Europe
Accommodations in Europe range from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious five-star hotels and private villas. Depending on your budget and preferences, there are many options available:
- Hostels: One of the most iconic symbols of European travel are hostels, which offer budget-friendly accommodations ideal for backpackers. Hostels can range from bunk beds in a shared room to private rooms with en-suite bathrooms.
- Bed and breakfasts: B&Bs are usually small businesses operated by locals who offer guests private rooms and homemade breakfasts.
- Hotels: For those who prefer a more traditional experience, there is no shortage of hotels in Europe. From big chains to boutique hotels, you’ll find everything from basic accommodations to luxurious five-star rooms.
- Private villas: Private villas provide luxurious accommodations with roomier and more private living spaces. Though this is the most expensive option, private villas may have kitchenettes, private pools and other extravagant amenities.
Famous European foods to try
Europe is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines, offering a wide array of unique dishes. While organized food tours may be available in certain cities, taking the time to explore local restaurants and cafes is an excellent way to discover all of Europe’s delicious flavors. Here are some of the most famous foods to try while traveling around Europe:
- Paella: Originating in Valencia, Spain, this classic Spanish dish is a fragrant and flavorful meal made with rice, seafood, saffron and other ingredients.
- Goulash: This hearty Hungarian stew is made with chunks of beef, potatoes, carrots and spices simmered in a rich paprika broth.
- Crêpes: France is famous for its crêpes, thin pancakes that can be savory or sweet. Try one filled with a variety of local cheeses, meats and vegetables for a delicious lunch.
- Pizza: Italy is the modern birthplace of pizza. From classic Margherita to the creative creations of Neapolitan chefs, pizza is a must-try on your European travels.
- Escargot: Although snails may not sound like the most delicious dish, many people find this classic French dish quite tasty. Escargot is usually cooked in a garlic and butter sauce, providing an unforgettable flavor experience.
What to wear in Europe
To determine what to wear in Europe, consider the time of year you’re traveling as well as where you’re going. In spring and summer, pack lightweight and breathable clothing that can be easily layered. In winter, you may need to bring heavier clothes to keep you warm. Follow these tips for what to wear in Europe:
- Lightweight layers: Pack clothes you can easily layer on or take off depending on the weather. Think light sweaters and cardigans, t-shirts and tank tops, and long sleeves that you can roll up or down.
- Comfortable shoes: Make sure to bring comfortable and supportive walking shoes that you can wear all day. Good quality and comfortable shoes are essential for exploring Europe’s cities.
- Stylish accessories: Add some style to your wardrobe with scarves, hats and sunglasses that are both functional and fashionable.
- Rain gear: Bring rain gear, like a lightweight raincoat, that can keep you dry during unexpected showers. Whether you get caught in the rain or not, you’ll be glad you packed it.
- Formal attire: You may want to bring a few pieces of more formal attire for special occasions or evenings out.
European travel tips
Traveling around Europe can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but there are some important tips to keep in mind to ensure you have a safe and stress-free time. Here are a few general guidelines for making your European adventure go as smoothly as possible.
How to plan a trip to Europe
To give yourself enough time to organize everything properly, it’s recommended to start your planning process at least three months in advance. Begin by researching different destinations and possible itinerary options. As for budgeting, you must determine how much you can spend on flights, accommodations, transportation, tours, activities and food expenses.
Once you have a plan, it’s time to book your flight and other travel arrangements, such as car rentals, accommodations and activities. Shopping around for the best deals will help you save money and ensure you get the most out of your trip.
You may want to consider purchasing travel insurance if it’s worth it for your trip. Compare the best travel insurance companies that will provide you with coverage in case of any unforeseen circumstances.
Cheap ways to travel to Europe
Traveling to Europe doesn’t have to be expensive. Proper planning and an eye for budget-friendly activities make it possible to have a memorable European adventure without breaking the bank.
Flying on a budget airline, staying in hostels or budget hotels and skipping the pricey restaurants are all great ways to save money while traveling Europe. You’ll find an abundance of delicious street food, farmers markets and local restaurants that offer much more reasonable prices than popular tourist destinations. To get the best deal when booking accommodations, consider using travel booking sites that aggregate the cheapest rates on flights, accommodations, activities and more.
If you have a travel credit card, you can take advantage of points and may even be able to get free flights out of it.
How to stay safe when traveling Europe
It’s important to conduct research and familiarize yourself with local laws and customs. To stay prepared for emergencies, it’s advised to have a list of emergency contacts. And, to protect yourself from potential illness, it’s also a good idea to make sure you are up to date on all of the necessary travel vaccines prior to your trip.
How to travel from country to country
Traveling in Europe is doable with certain types of visas, depending on your destination and length of stay. One of the most common visas for short-term travel is the Schengen visa, which lets you visit up to 26 countries in the Schengen Area for less than 90 days.
In terms of physically getting from one place to another, Europe has a wide array of transportation options. High-speed trains are the most popular option due to their convenience and speed. Aside from train travel, you can also take a bus, fly or rent a car for more independent travel.
Which European country will you explore first?
Europe is full of adventure and discovery, no matter which country you explore. Europe holds many of the best international places to travel. Trying to decide which European country will be the best fit for your trip can be daunting, so refer to your budget, interests and timeline to help narrow down your options.
Nathan Mahr is a long-form content writer and copywriter with five years of experience working with companies ranging from large finance corporations to small tech startups. His work combines technical accuracy and persuasive copy to create high-quality content that resonates with readers. Aside from writing, Nathan is a dedicated musician and an enthusiastic world traveler. He is passionate about helping to produce content that connects with audiences and drives meaningful action.