europe summer travel tips

The Ultimate Guide to Packing for Europe in Summer

Europe Packing List , Packing Lists , Travel Packing Lists

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Packing for Europe in Summer

The most important packing tip for Europe in the summer is to check the weather forecast before traveling!

Summer in Europe runs from June through August and is usually the most popular and crowded time of year to visit. Depending on the country, the weather can be anything from perfectly sunny and mild to hot and sticky.

Europe can be an unpredictable place to travel to in terms of weather, and no matter what time of year you go, you could get sun or rain. It’s a huge continent with stunningly diverse regions. It’s absolutely essential to check the weather forecast for each city as it may be boiling in the southern end of a country while raining in the northern part.

Once you’ve researched the weather, you can focus on creating a travel capsule wardrobe , which should easily fit in a carryon suitcase with the help of packing cubes to compress your clothing.

Start by reading these general tips on packing for summer travel:

• Capsule Wardrobe for Summer
• Best Walking Shoes for Europe’s Cobblestone Streets
• Cute and Comfortable Walking Sandals
• 10 Step Packing List for Europe

No matter where you visit, you should always check the weather in advance . Some destinations are consistently hot throughout the summer such as Rome while others experience a brief heat wave followed by cold wind and rain such as the UK.

Using tips from our readers, we’ve compiled the ultimate guide to packing for Europe in summer:

Waterproof Allbirds Wool Runner Mizzles

United Kingdom

It may be hard to believe, but the UK can heat up in the summer. While some of the warmest days are experienced in the months of May, June, and September, it tends to cool down in July and August. You can experience the occasional heat wave but it’s soon followed by a week of wind and cold.  The weather can be unpredictable, which means you have to be prepared and always check the weather forecast before traveling!

If you’re exploring different cities across the country throughout the summer, then the perfect “what to wear in England” outfit would be a summer dress (with layers) or jeans and a blouse. Throw on a pair of cute but comfortable shoes such as   Superga sneakers to walk around in and you’ve got yourself the perfect outfit for a summer in England.

It’s not always warm, so if you’re used to a hotter climate, then you should consider packing layers for extra warmth on your trip. For those cooler days, throw on a pair of dark jeans, a cute top, leather jacket , and a pair of comfortable sneakers that will allow you to walk around for hours on end.

Tip: When choosing what to wear in England, check the weather forecast in advance, such as around three days before your trip. Generally speaking, on a one week trip, expect three days of sun and four days of gray, cold skies.

For more tips, read this London packing list !

Longchamp Le Pliage Backpack

Summers in Paris can get very hot, but the weather is unpredictable and it can turn chilly. For cooler days in June, you’ll need neutral tailored trousers or jeans in a dark wash, which you can wear with your comfortable black ankle booties . Summer is also the time to make use of your wedge sandals, which instantly give your wardrobe a summery touch.

For warmer days, bring out your dresses ! Cotton, rayon, and linen are the most comfortable in the heat. Add a belt for a feminine, polished fit. If you prefer maxi dresses or summer dresses , those all work and are a matter of style and preference.

The key to completing your Parisian look is a stylish bag. You’re sure to stand out as a tourist exploring the city with a hiking bag or fanny pack, instead opt for an oversized tote bag or satchel, ensuring you can still fit all the tourist essentials in (camera/map etc.) whilst nailing the city’s chic look. We love these cute backpacks for travel !

Tip: While summer can be hot, the weather can be quite unpredictable so always check the weather forecast before you go. A particularly pleasantly morning stroll can be rudely interrupted by a downpour – be sure to pack a trusty fold away umbrella and lightweight trench . In many cases, a lightweight leather jacket is stylish and practical. 

Read our Paris packing list for more tips!

Quince Linen Button Front Dress 

Austria is beautiful in the summer and it can be a season for skimpy dressing, but be reasonably modest in your attire—no tiny jean cut-offs or cleavage-baring shirts, for example. And save the flip-flops for another destination (or the hostel shower) as they are generally not seen as appropriate footwear in Europe. A chic pair of comfortable sandals or a stylish pair of sneakers are two ideal footwear options.

Consider packing a maxi dress or two for a summer vacation, as they’re stylish and comfortable while also being light and easy to pack. I’d also bring along a light jacket or cardigan , as summer evenings in Austria (especially if you’re by the water) can be a bit chilly.

Basics such as tees and jeans are versatile pieces that you’ll wear a lot during your trip, and if you want to bring along shorts, go for a modest, stylish pair as opposed to jean cut-offs.

Tip: Austria has some stunning lakes, so don’t forget to bring a swimsuit for taking a dip!

For more tips, find out what to wear in Austria year-round!

Söfft Mirabelle Sandals

Summer is a great time for a trip to Italy, the season is filled with Italian festivals taking place across the country, from big cities to tiny villages you’ll often find outdoor music and entertainment performances in a main square or historic venue, it’s safe to say you’ll never bore of things to entertain you.

Choose light colored clothing to avoid scorching in the blaring heat. Cotton, linen, and rayon fabrics are best. For city sightseeing, dress comfortably with loose and light clothes. Skirts, capris, or (dressy) shorts are essential; a nice top or a dressy blouse and a hat will complete the look.  If your feet swell in the heat, bring supportive,  comfortable sandals .

Make sure you are not wearing revealing clothing when you visit religious sites. You can be asked to leave or they might not let you in–bring a shawl that you can wrap around your shoulders for coverage when needed. Also, opt for skirts or dresses that fall below the knees if you’re visiting the Vatican .

Tip: Be prepared, the weather in the summer can get HOT, it’s essential to protect your peepers from the strong suns glaze with a pair of stylish shades.

Check out our Italy Packing List  for more tips!

Cashmere & Silk Wrap

Germany is beautiful in summer. The weather is mostly hot, with the odd rain shower. The evenings are mild, and there can be thunderstorms.

Since you will be lucky enough to enjoy warm temperatures during summer trips to Germany you will be able to pack a maxi dress, long and light material it is great for a summers day whilst still giving your legs added protection if the temperature cools slightly.

Pack vests, tank tops and tube tops, these can be a mixture of neutral colors and bolder, brighter colors that reflect the summer season, you can mix and match these tops with denim shorts or a pair of colorful shorts , for during the day and a pair of black skinny jeans for the cooler evenings. Bring a light jacket or cardigan with you so that you can protect yourself from the chill.

Tip: A scarf is a fantastic accessory to brighten up your outfit and is useful in the evenings or if you experience a cooler day.

Find out  what to wear in Germany !

Eddie Bauer Departure Ankle Pants

Summer is the best season to visit Sweden, with July being the warmest month of the year. During the summer there are wonderful long days of daylight, and you can expect a backdrop of blue skies and a sunset as late as 11pm. Not only does the season have the best weather, but there are so many lovely things to do outdoors.

To fit it with local style, pack lots of simple silhouettes in neutral colors, like black, white, cream, gray, and light blue. The trend is minimalistic yet chic cuts, and an overall fresh feel.

In the summer, you can’t go wrong with a few simple dresses, a cute pair of espadrilles that are comfortable for walking around, and at least one pair of shorts. Also classic black pants or jeans and a range of simple, yet nice tops are a good addition to your packing list.

Tip: Rain is a possibility even in the summer, so consider packing a light rain jacket or an umbrella just in case, especially if you’re taking a day trip outside the city.

Learn more about  what to wear in Stockholm !

Loveappella V-Neck Maxi Dress 

Switzerland

The warmer weather allows for greater fashion freedom with your wardrobe and your Switzerland packing list. Sunglasses, bandeaus, and sleeveless shirts can make an appearance during the summer months, in bright bold colors and worn with dressy shorts in darker shades.

Light summer dresses and skirts in cotton and linen are a great fabric for the summer season to allow for breathability. In fact, it’s not just a good idea to keep them in mind when planning what to pack for Switzerland, but you can use them for just about any destination for versatility, femininity, and style.

During the cooler summer days, you can wear a maxi dress , which will give your legs protection from the breeze whilst maintaining that chic, ladylike summer style.

Tip: The evenings in summer can still get quite cool, so pack a lightweight jacket for the cooler nights, along with a raincoat to protect you from the occasional rain shower.

Learn more about  what to bring to Switzerland !

Villa Waterproof Ankle Bootie

Planning what to pack for Ireland in summer comes with a special set of instructions. It’s always colder than what you might expect – you have to be ready for rain, and the wind is strong.

Bring your umbrella and hoodies as they are not as heavy duty as winter gear, but will protect you from the chill. (These are the best rain jackets for Ireland .) Pack a cardigan that you can wear with your summer dress , maxi dress, maxi skirt, and shorts.

Stockings or tights are always a great option to wear underneath dresses or shorts for warm layers. A scarf will add warmth and a subtle hint of color to any outfit. You can also bring a blazer on your travels. Opt for black; you can team it with any look, adding a touch of sophistication when worn with jeans.

Lastly: shoes. Bring comfortable ballet flats and another pair of closed toe shoes like loafers or ankle booties to protect you from the elements and colder days. A third pair of shoes should be walking shoes of your preference, such as Toms, Converse, or another supportive pair.

Tip: Always pack a pair of jeans for Ireland! They’re comfortable and durable and will keep you warm on cooler summer days.

Read this Ireland packing list for more tips!

Columbia Arcadia II Jacket 

Even in summer, Norway doesn’t get too warm. You can expect mild temperatures in the 60s Fahrenheit. When you’re planning what to pack for a trip to Norway keep in mind that locals like to keep things simple in their wardrobe, right down to the colors. They tend to gravitate toward neutral color such as gray, beige, black, and blue.

Bring along a summer dress or pair of shorts to wear as you lay out in the grass in one of the many parks dotting the city. Locals flood the parks on sunny days and are all dressed to take advantage of the weather!

When it cools down, add a pair of tights underneath and pair them with ankle boots and a lightweight scarf.

Though Norway has beautiful summer days, it also experiences rainfall throughout the season. Classic yellow raincoats with snap buttons are commonly worn around the cities on rainy days.

Tip: One of the draws of Norway is the breathtaking fjords. Make sure you pack a swimsuit to jump in on the warm summer days.

Read our  packing list for Norway in summer for more tips!

MEROKEETY Floral Midi Skirt

Summer is the most popular time to visit Russia, and for good reason! The weather is warm and the days are sunny and long. The weather is fairly predictable, so you can expect warm weather all day long.

Russians tend to dress up and wear more conservative clothing, so don’t wear anything too short or tight, or you’ll stand out. Make sure your clothes are clean and neat, and that there are no flashy colors or over-the-top prints. The perfect Russian summer outfit includes dressy shorts or a midi skirt or dress . Pair skirts and shorts with a nice blouse and sandals or ballet flats. If you’ll be staying out all day into the evening, wearing layers is key. Pack a shawl or a cardigan for romantic walks next to the Moscow River.

Tip: Some museums and churches might refuse service or admission if shoulders and knees are uncovered. Also, avoid wearing jean cutoffs and tank tops, as they may bring you unwanted attention.

Find out what to pack for Russia  in summer!

J.Crew Classic Denim Jacket

The Netherlands

Summer is the most popular time of year to travel to The Netherlands. It has long daylight hours and attracts the largest crowds of tourists, with temperatures reaching the 70s Fahrenheit.

Summer does allow the freedom to shed layers and wear what you feel comfortable in. Feel free to bring some skirts and dresses, but these should not be the bulk of your wardrobe for reasons of practicality.

Darker shades like khaki, tan, black, and navy can act as the base of your wardrobe. Include a pair of dark blue or black jeans and a pair of pants that are made from a lighter fabric, like cotton or linen; the breathability will keep you cool. Vests, tank tops and t-shirts are great to wear with your jeans or a pair of shorts. Mix and match a selection of colors and styles that you feel comfortable in.

While the summers are beautiful, the wind can be cold, and the odd rain shower is a possibility. To ensure you’re prepared for all elements, include a light jacket and a raincoat or umbrella in your packing list.

Tip: Make sure your footwear is comfortable for lots of walking and cycling. However, leave the flip-flops at home; Dutch women don’t wear them on the streets.

Find out  what to wear in the Netherlands !

Sorel Ella II Sandals

Spain is a vast country with different cities, vibes and ideals. But one thing is for sure: Spain in the summer is hot, hot, hot! Pair that with the millions of tourists visiting this season and it is near stifling, so you’ll need to be careful with what to wear in Spain during this season.

You’re going to want to choose breathable and comfortable clothing to beat the heat. Wear a flirty dress, some cute cut off shorts, off-the-shoulder tops or a bright, colorful tee.

Sundresses, shorts, tank tops and even crop tops are perfectly acceptable ways to dress throughout Spain. If you plan on going into any museums or churches, just be sure your stomach and shoulders are covered so as not to offend.

The evening brings a reprise from the heat, but you still won’t need any pants. Dresses or shorts with a blouse is commonplace for the club or bar scene. Again, be sure to cover up based on your surroundings.

Tip: You must add comfortable sandals to your Spain packing list for casual beach/city days and sneakers for active wear or additional support. If you’re planning on going to a nice dinner or dancing flamenco, bring appropriate fancy shoes.

Find out what to pack for your trip to Spain !

Hilor One Piece Swimsuit

Greece, and Athens in particular, is HOT during summer, particularly in August. Think a sweltering 104°F degrees and even higher, which means that the city practically shuts down as the locals attempt to escape the heat.

Take full advantage of clothing that embodies the perfect summer wardrobe . Beautiful, bright summer swimwear will be your best friend; team it with a floppy sun hat for extra protection from the sun. Don’t forget your sunscreen lotion and sunglasses!

When planning what to wear in Greece in summer, pack tank tops, vests, shorts , mini-skirts, and light dresses ; these can all be in bright, colorful shades to reflect the season. Opt for thin, light materials like cotton and linen for extra breathability and coolness.

Bring out the summery sandals in a variety of patterns and shades; you could also opt for a pair of comfortable flats , which can be easier to walk in than sandals.

Tip: The easiest way to explore Greece cities and get around is on foot, meaning comfortable walking shoes are essential!

Take a look at our summer Greece packing list !

Printable Travel Checklist

Download our FREE printable and editable travel checklist! You can click here  to access the file. You can also download the print-friendly, PDF version  here .

You can also click the image below to open the editable file.

The travel checklist features unique categories to help you pack for your trip efficiently including a list of things to bring on vacation and other helpful reminders. It includes all the items listed in various categories above and has spaces where you can fill in your own information. (Make sure to follow the directions at the top of the spreadsheet!)

What are your tips on packing for Europe in summer? Share in the comment section below!

For more Europe packing tips, please read:

• Backpack Vs Suitcase: Which is Right for My Trip to Europe?
• Ultimate Guide to The Best Travel Purse for Europe 
• Money Belts and Anti-Theft Travel Accessories
• 10-Step Packing Guide for Europe
• What to Wear in Europe: Packing List for Every Destination

Suggested travel resources:

• How to Choose the Best Shoes for Europe
• The Best Carry-on Suitcases for Europe

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I hope you liked this ultimate guide to packing for Europe in summer. Please share it with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

This blog article is an exceptional resource, actually this entire website is an outstanding resource. I refer to it often. Thank you so much!

I’m planning on using these tips for our trip next summer. Paris Olympics for 8 days followed by a 12 day cruise around Spain and Portugal from England. Already planning on what to bring!

Thank you! Your packing guides were so helpful for our Italy & Greece trip! I was an overpacker previously and with these and the TFG community, I was inspired to change up what I take and lighten my load. With each trip, I have gotten more streamlined which feels so good!

The links to the packing list are broken!

Hi Megan, thanks for letting us know. If you email us at [email protected] we can send it to you straight away!

I traveled to Europe this summer visiting 4 cities (in 4 countries) in one week. This post and a few others on TFG was a lifesaver! I took 7 pieces that served me well for two different temps, both sightseeing and my travel days. Best of all everything fit into a backpack, making it easy when I had to run to chasing trains. Thank you!

Your Europe packing guide cured me of being a serial overpacker! I traveled for 3 weeks, visited 5 countries and looked great every day with only 15 items in a carry-on – such a difference from lugging around my giant 50+ pound suitcase on previous trips! So glad a friend recommended TFG!

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Top Tips for Planning a Summer Trip to Europe 2022

Dreaming of a European summer? It’s about that time of year when flight sales and warmer weather beckon a voyage to Europe. Where you go and how you do it all play role in planning one epic trip to Europe. There are a few tips for a successful trip and I want to share them with you.

Europe has been a second home for me and my family (my family is in France). Every year we make a point to return to Europe for a few weeks. Then oftentimes work brings me back over for a shorter stint. Over the years, I’ve learned a few ways to get the best bookings and plan a trip that is not a logistical nightmare.

If you’re at the beginning stages of dreaming up your European getaway, I want to share these tips with you to help you plan a successful trip. It can be challenging to navigate the several options there are when it comes to transportation. Even considerations for types of accommodations, and deciding on how long to go come to play.

This year in particular brings on a whole new set of challenges for European travel. With entry requirements changing constantly, you’ll want to be up on the know as you plan. All of this and more are covered below. (Plus read on to see whether train or plane is best this summer.)

I just finished planning a 10-week trip to Europe, so I’ve got a few takeaways from the past month I spent researching. It’s with great pleasure to return to Europe for the first time since the pandemic began. And though there may be a few extra hoops to jump through, I know it’s always worth the effort once there.

Tips for Planning a Summer Trip to Europe 2022

1. know the entry requirements.

Before we get started on any travel planning tips, the most crucial topic is, can you enter the country? With the ever-constant changing rules due to COVID, it may feel like a bit of a mess. The short story is if you’re vaccinated, it will be much easier to get in (barring any other major outbreak). If we look at the last two years for summer tourism, Europe has mostly been opened with a few steps for entry.

The key takeaway? Be flexible. If these last two years have taught us anything it’s that anything can change at any time. You can also plan on masks to be required in some countries as well, this is ever-changing too. For example, since I began writing this post, France dropped testing for triple-vaccinated passengers — it is changing that frequently.

Steps for entry are country-dependent. Some are requiring a PCR test for entry, others are not. It’s truly all over the place. If you’re transferring through an airport, say San Francisco to Frankfurt to Mallorca, you need to know the entry requirements for both Frankfurt and Mallorca. The airport website should have this information listed. Remember when transferring at an airport in the EU, you will do customs at your first transfer which may mean the said country will have its own entry requirements.

If you are looking for specific country requirements, the best advice is to go to the country’s tourism site. You can do this by searching “country tourism entry requirements.”

Sources for current information: Re-open EU (you can select a country and see updated information on local measures) Politico (this news outlet updates information weekly, I would still double confirm) Call Your accommodations (call your accommodations to ask what the requirements are for check-in. For instance, most hotels in Italy are requiring proof of vaccination.)

Can you hop between countries in the Schengen zone?

As we stand right now, it seems so. Again this is ever-changing, I would recommend checking this EU site for the most up-to-date information. You may need to be vaccinated or have a negative test to enter from one country to the next.

2. Book with flexibility and read the fine print

Cancellation policies are your best friend this summer. In case you do need to change your travels, I would recommend reading the fine print well. My suggestion is to utilize third-party sites that have good cancellation policies. My list of places I like to book are:

Hotels — Booking.com or Hotels.com provide an extensive inventory of hotels that nearly most offer a flexible cancellation policy. I often see cancel with full refunds up to 48 hours prior for both of these booking engines.

Cars — Kayak.com . My top tip for booking cars in Europe is to book third party. Most car agencies allow you to secure a car reservation with a cancellation policy up to the week of

Trains — RailEurope or Omio. If you are wanting the ability to rebook or cancel, select the right flexible fare for your booking.

Flights — This is SO airline dependent. Most are offering the ability to rebook when it’s a certain fare, doublecheck before you book.

*A note on Airbnb: tread lightly and read the cancellation policy well. I am starting to see more listings offering cancellation policies up to 48 hours before arrival.

3. A private tour, private guides, and advance tickets are worth it

The travel industry is expecting a busy summer as we reemerge this year even more than last year. I’d recommend booking your entry tickets in advance to confirm entry. Another great resource for travel is booking a private guided tour. I think it’s one of the most overlooked travel experiences and it can be such an enriching add-on. Often times private tours get extra perks like early entry so something worth considering as you research.

Where to book private tours and skip the line passes? My preferred tour agency is Get Your Guide . I have personally done three private tours with Get Your Guide in California (they started in Europe). It is always led by a knowledgeable local and there are so many booking options.

On Get Your Guide you’ll find advance tickets for museums and sights, group tours, and private tours.

Popular attractions like the Vatican Early Access Tour , skip-the-line Louvre tickets , and this Seville group tour are all available on Get Your Guide.

4. Train, plane, or car?

One of the most common questions is should I take a train, plane, or car? Let’s categorize train and plane in one bucket because these are for longer distances. Cars would be better suited for say a regional road trip through Provence or Tuscany. What should you do for larger distances? Did you know sometimes it’s cheaper to fly than take the train some times?

This summer as I started to do research train itineraries between major itineraries, I was shocked at the prices. They are steeper than ever before. I price compared for instance flying between Paris to Amsterdam vs. taking the direct train high-speed Thalys train. The train was $75 a person and takes about 3hr 20min. The plane was $68 direct on Air France and 1hr 20 min long. When you consider it all together, it’s worth comparing especially when they’re close in price and deciding what is best for you.

When comparing train vs plane I like to consider these factors:

• Do I have a lot of luggage? This may be easier to check on a plane (though it costs money) rather than lugging it onto a train.
• Is the train station conveniently located? For instance, I would rather train to Madrid from Barcelona. The reason being the main station in Madrid is near the center and doesn’t require a taxi from the airport.
• Is the plane faster than taking the train? In Europe you don’t need to show up incredibly early to flights unless it’s the weekend (security lines are typically a breeze in comparison to U.S. airports). So your total time at the airport is perhaps one extra hour or so before a flight. It may be more convenient to fly rather than connecting through several train stations.

Airlines in Europe I prefer for regional flights : Do not shy away from local airlines in Europe even if you haven’t heard of them! There are several good ones and though they may be budget, it’s perfectly suited for a quick and often cheap flight.

My preferred budget airlines are Ryanair and Vueling. EasyJet is my last choice (notorious for delayed flights). I love TAP Air for Portugal-bound flights and Norwegian Airlines for Scandinavian destinations.

Other transportation options in Europe: You may have followed this trip I took through Andalucia that I did completely without a car in 2019. I utilized the local bus system in Spain to go from Malaga to Granada and then on to Cordoba. It was an absolute breeze, the buses were clean and had Wifi. You can easily utilize the local buses in Europe to get around, just know that they may take a bit longer. For buses in Spain, use the site Alsa to book your reservations. For other countries, Omio has options for bookings.

5. Car rentals: Insurance, international license, and more

Should you book a car in Europe? Yes! It is one of the best ways to explore regions like Tuscany or Provence, or islands like Mallorca, Sicily, and more. It is quite easy to drive in Europe and there are a few tips to help out:

• I nsurance : Did you know major credit card companies like Chase or AMEX offer free international car insurance when you book with their credit card? Many will offer insurance as part of you using your credit card so you can skip the extra insurance there. This will save you a lot of money. Be sure to call your credit card and get firm details on whether or not your credit card provides insurance . We had one incident in Barcelona when we returned our car to Sixt — $600 fine for a small ding. We paid and then our credit card covered the costs as part of our insurance.
• International License : You technically need one to drive a car in Europe. Do they ever check it? Almost never but you should have it. You can get an international license at a participating AAA location , $20 per adult prior to leaving.
• Tolls : They’re everywhere in Europe and should be expected. Carry extra cash or a credit card with you to pay. Note: they can be pretty expensive during the summer months.

My number one tip when renting a car in Europe is making sure you have cellular data to use Google Maps and a translating app. You will want the translation app should you need to understand parking signs especially.

6. Picking the right destination for you

Where should you go? It’s the million-dollar question when there are SO many options in Europe. If you need some inspiration, here are 7 blissful coastal escapes , 12 summer destinations to consider , and a guide on European summer spots .

One consideration when picking a destination is how will you get around? Best budget destinations are always cities as you can utilize public transport to explore. It can be pricey to rent a car to explore more countryside regions (though maybe doable by bus). I personally like a combination of a few spots. My ideal trip is 3-4 nights in a major city and then heading out to the coast or an island for 4-5 nights to relax.

My top picks for summer in Europe this year are:

• an island escape to Mallorca, Spain or Hvar, Croatia
• a city break in Utrecht, Netherlands
• Andalucia without a car
• a road trip in Slovenia
• a seaside stay in Cassis, France
• a coastal trip to Costa Brava, Spain
• a city trip to Helsinki, Finland

7. Utilize your international flight to your benefit

One of the best tips of advice I can give is to always price compare when booking a roundtrip ticket vs an open-jaw ticket when visiting multiple spots. An open-jaw ticket is where you would fly from San Francisco to Paris and then back from Barcelona to San Francisco (different entry/exit airports). If you plan to hop around, this can save you a lot of money instead of just booking a roundtrip out of the same airport.

Use this to your benefit by getting to explore more of Europe for less. One itinerary example may be that you want to visit both Paris and Amsterdam. So you fly into CDG (Paris) from SFO and spend time there first. Then take the Thalys train to Amsterdam to explore. After, your return flight home is from AMS (Amsterdam) instead of paying for another train ticket back to Paris to fly back from Paris. You cut the cost of one direction of travel.

I also have this guide for the best connected in Europe to fly into if you’re looking to maximize more.

8. How to beat the summer crowds in Europe

Crowds in Europe are no joke in the summer months. I actually wrote this entire guide on how to manage the crowds — I’m giving out my tips for how to do it well.

9. When to book everything

When you’ve decided, book . Travel is starting to pick up and even after looking at several hotels, quite a few were sold out already for summer weekends. This summer season in Europe is shaping up to be a busy one so I’d expect prices to rise and there to be limited availability.

10. Make restaurant reservations

Once you get more details of your trip finalized, I would start making reservations for at least dinners. This is for those travelers who have specific restaurants you’d like to eat at. Summer is a busy time for restaurants, so get ahead and secure that spot. And remember, dinner is much later in the evening than dinner stateside.

11. Get travel insurance

We don’t leave the country without it. My preference for travel insurance is with World Nomads .

12. Baby Travel Tips for Europe

We will be embarking on our first trip to Europe with our baby in May. So I don’t want to give any concrete personal advice until we’ve done it ourselves. However, I can share the resources we’ve found helpful as well as our decisions for gear while there.

For the international flight : our daughter will be around 7 months old at the time of travel so for our big international tickets I booked reward tickets with United Airlines and then called to have us be put in bulkhead seats with a bassinet request. (no charge, the bassinet is requested not guaranteed). Had we had more points, we would have purchased her a seat for the extra room.

For gear while there : This is where it gets tricky. While we have a “travel system” where our car seat clicks into the stroller and is super easy to use, it’s not just recommended for Europe for several reasons. Babies should be in a proper stroller if possible and our daughter will be at the age (7 months) where a stroller is more appropriate. It’s also piping hot in the summer in Europe and car seats don’t have ventilation as a stroller does (overheating risk). So here is what we’ve decided to bring for gear (this is what is working for our personal trip):

• Check our own car seat . Yes, technically all US compliant/made carseats are illegal in Europe because of the chest clip and other regulations. Several people I spoke to have always brought their own car seat and I personally would prefer to have safety over the rare occurance of it being an issue. This blog post by Carseat Mama breaks down why you should bring your own and was the determining factor for us given we have nearly 6 weeks of car rentals while there.
• Purchase a travel stroller . We purchased the Cybex Libelle stroller as it folds up and fits in the overhead compartment. I cross checked it with both of our airlines and it still beats the Babyzen YOYO for size. I’m not sure it’s the most sturdy but given we’re on an island and then just a few weeks in a city, it will do just fine.
• Check our own travel crib . We love our Lotus travel crib , she actually sleeps in it now at home. Since we plan to hop around a bit, I want to have her bed with us. I think this is us being completely extra, you could totally use hotel cribs and see if your vacaton rental has a crib option.

Getting Around Since we won’t be using our car seat that clicks into a stroller, we will be limited to a few options. We can either use our rental car with our own car seat, use public transportation, or book a private transfer that has a car set up with a car seat. This is why we’ve rented a car for our time in Mallorca and why we chose a city in France that has good public transportation.

Resources : Anna Everywhere had this awesome post on Europe with babies .

Save this post for later on Pinterest:

Ps — are you booking a trip soon use my booking checklist.

These are the sites I use most to book my own trips. Using the links below is a great way to support Bon Traveler’s travel journalism at no extra cost to you . If you need help organizing your itinerary, get my free travel itinerary template here .

1. Book Your Flights

Use Skyscanner to find the best flights. It searches 100s of airlines and websites across the globe to ensure you’re not missing out on any route options or deals.

2. Book Your Accommodations

Use Booking.com for hotels and guest houses. They have the biggest inventory and consistently offer the best rates.

3. Book Your Tours & Experiences

Use Viator or Get Your Guide to find the best tours and experiences. They are my favorite tour search engines. I always check both as their inventory varies depending on the destination.

4. Book Your Car

Use Discover Cars or Rentalcars.com to find the best car rental deals. I recommend comparing rental agency reviews on Google to ensure you are booking with the best company in that destination, as the reviews are often more accurate than the car rental search engines.

5. Don’t Forget Airport Lounge Access

Get a Priority Pass membership to gain access to 1,400+ VIP lounges and airport experiences worldwide. The Priority Pass app is the first thing I check when I have a layover. I’ve been a member for over a decade, and having a comfortable place to relax before and between flights makes air travel so much more enjoyable.

6. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

I never leave the country without travel insurance. It provides comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong (ie. illness, injury, theft, and cancelations, etc.). I use it frequently for my travels to stay protected.

My favorite companies that offer the best coverage and rates are:

• World Nomads (best for all-around)
• Safety Wing (best for frequent travelers)

Xx, Jessica

Related Posts

The Ultimate Travel Guide to Fornalutx, Mallorca

The 17 Best Luxury Hotels in Mallorca (2024)

The Ultimate Guide to Visiting the Dordogne

The tips are useful in planning a trip to Europe. I have been to Europe many times and feel the tips mentioned would be very useful for everyone

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Europe , Travel

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. Budget for Your Trip

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

How much does it cost to travel Europe?

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

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

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

2. Save for Your Trip

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

3. Check Europe Travel Visa Requirements

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

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

4. Buy Flights Early

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

5. Read Books About your Destinations

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

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

6. Pack Light

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

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

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

7. Bring Melatonin to Beat Jetlag

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

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

8. Don’t Try to See it All!

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

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

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

9. Book Your Accommodations as Early as Possible

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

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

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

10. Learn How to Travel Around Europe

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

11. Travel Europe by Train

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

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

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

12. Get an International Drivers License

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

13. Call Your Credit Card Company

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

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

15 . Have Cash with You

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

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

16. Know About the Currency of Each Country

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

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

• Netherlands

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

17. Leave the Majority of Your Cash in the Hotel

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

18. Wear Your Cash

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

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

19. Spend Your Coins

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

20. Know How to Stay Safe

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

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

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

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

21. Travel Insurance Europe

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

22. Register with the State Department

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

23. Always Carry Your Passport

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

24. Book Attraction Tickets in Advance

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

25. Don’t Over-Plan

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

26. Get Off the Beaten Path

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

27. Stay Connected Abroad

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

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

28. Learn a few words of the local language

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

29. Wake Up Early

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

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

30. Shop at the Grocery Stores

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

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

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

31. Shop at the Markets

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

32. Know How to Find Authentic Restaurants

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

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

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

33. Be Aware of the Coperto

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

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

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

34. Know About Tipping in Europe

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

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

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

35. It’s OK to Drink the Water

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

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

36. Eat at McDonald’s

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

37. Take a Bus Tour

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

38. Take an UBER Tour

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

39. Take Free Walking Tours

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

40. Rent a Bike

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

41. Book Airbnb Experiences

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

42. Visit Museums

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

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

43. Attend Theater or Concerts

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

44. Take Advantage of Free Activities and Sites

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

45. Know How to Use the Restrooms

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

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

46. Keep a Travel Journal

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

47. Talk to the Locals

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

48. Be a Responsible Tourist

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

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

49. Volunteer

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

50. Expect Problems and Roll with the Punches

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

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

BONUS 51. Have Fun!

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

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

Practical Tips for Booking your Trip

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

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

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

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

Wanderlust Crew

Traveling to Europe this summer? Here's what to expect

The recent Easter travel period offered a glimpse into what is to come for anyone traveling to or around Europe this summer. There's cause for celebration, but the resurgence of travel is likely to be met with frustration as well.

Here's what to expect:

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Fewer or no entry requirements

Several European countries have already dropped all entry requirements related to the pandemic and it is likely other countries will follow suit.

While traveling to European countries such as Spain , Italy , Portugal and Greece during the summers of 2020 and 2021 required dealing with numerous health declarations, negative tests and ever-evolving vaccination requirements, this summer, travel will be much more like it was pre-pandemic.

For example, to enter Denmark right now, you need nothing more than a ticket and a passport.

Related: Is Greece actually lifting travel restrictions in May or not? The announcement has caused a lot of confusion

Less mask-wearing and social distancing

At the time of publication, you no longer need to wear masks (even indoors in crowded spaces, including on flights ) in these countries:

• Czech Republic.
• Netherlands.
• United Kingdom.

It's likely that more countries will be added to this list in the coming weeks and months. Travelers are welcome to continue wearing masks wherever and whenever they wish, though they may find themselves in the minority rather than the majority, depending on where they go.

Social distancing is likely to also be a thing of the past in these destinations, so be prepared for bustling bars and restaurants crammed with people once again.

Related: Update: Which flights do I need to wear a face mask on? An airline by airline guide

This summer will see the most unrestricted travel in Europe in more than two years.

Events such as weddings, conferences and festivals that have been rescheduled repeatedly now appear likely to proceed in 2022.

All of this means you can expect to see plenty of people traveling around Europe this summer. Those who haven't packed a suitcase in two years may be a little out of practice when it comes to navigating airports and separating items at security checkpoints. Be patient with those who take a little longer than usual, and also plan ahead to give yourself plenty of time to avoid the stress of feeling rushed and panicked at airports.

Staffing shortages

Travel operators saw a surplus of staff during periods with COVID-19 travel restrictions such as border closures and bans on nonessential travel. Some staff left the industry in search of more pandemic-proof employment and have not returned.

Related: Virgin Atlantic retires 747 fleet, closes Gatwick base, to lose more than 3,000 jobs in business reshaping

As demand for travel quickly resumed in 2022, travel operators from airlines to hotels to airport operators have often found themselves short-handed . The staffing issues are particularly difficult to solve for airlines and airports, as new staff must go through extensive government background security checks that can take many months to complete.

Travel providers are desperately trying to recruit staff — London 's Heathrow Airport (LHR) has the ambitious task of trying to recruit 12,000 new workers in just six weeks before it finally reopens Terminal 4 in June. There is fierce competition for new staff in the travel industry, especially those that can start immediately and/or already have security clearance and completed the time-consuming government background checks.

Whether these companies manage to recruit enough staff in time is anyone's guess, but if you are lined up at a counter that appears to be understaffed, this may be the reason.

Related: 10 ways to get through security faster

Delays and cancellations

More passengers, fewer workers and complex supply chain issues have already resulted in disrupted travel. New hotel openings have been delayed, and some airlines have already proactively reduced their summer schedules, realizing it is unlikely they will be able to operate all the flights they had planned — no matter how much they would welcome the business.

TPG's Jordan Waller experienced this first-hand recently when a return flight from Budapest with British Airways was canceled a week before he was due to fly.

"In this instance, I was able to quickly arrange an earlier flight home, but it's worth making sure you have some emergency funds and the relevant contact details of your airline if you're holidaying somewhere with limited flights and find yourself in the position of inadvertently having to extend your trip," Jordan says.

Hopefully, the disruptions stabilize somewhat as travel providers learn to navigate these new environments. But with so many disruptive factors colliding at once, there is an increased chance your flight could be delayed or changed this summer across Europe or that you don't make it through security in time to board your flight.

Again, be patient with both your fellow travelers and staff members who are trying their best to get you to your destination.

Related: Here's what to do if your flight gets canceled or delayed

Less flexible change and cancellation policies

In 2020, travel providers introduced generous flexibility on travel planning to both preserve cash flow and encourage their customers to continue to book travel. This may have been in the form of a "no questions asked" travel voucher or the ability to make unlimited changes to your booking if your plans changed last minute for reasons beyond your control (such as testing positive for COVID-19).

Related: How to use outstanding airline vouchers before they expire

While this increased flexibility for the traveling consumer will hopefully last forever, there is far less need for travel providers to continue to offer it. Reintroducing change fees is easy revenue for companies that have sustained two years of losses.

Ryanair , one of the world's least flexible airlines, has already removed its COVID-19 flexibility policies and is back to charging for everything.

If you are unable to follow through with your travel plans this summer, you may find your airline or hotel is much stricter than it was 12 months ago.

Related: This budget airline is threatening to ban customers over refunds

Higher prices

If you did travel during the last two years, you may have found some bargain travel deals as supply exceeded demand, leaving planes and hotels mostly empty.

For a number of reasons, cheap deals are less likely this summer:

• Euro area annual inflation was 7.4% in March 2022, up from 5.9% in February 2022, driven in part by recent increases to energy prices. The cost of providing goods and services has already increased, and this will be passed on to consumers.
• Many travel providers have endured heavy losses during the pandemic and will be keen to recoup some of these losses as demand returns.
• More travelers means more demand, which will result in higher prices.

If you have not booked your flights, accommodation, car rental and activities for summer yet, do this as soon as possible. Prices are unlikely to become any cheaper than they are now and may well rise even further.

Related: Rising oil prices do mean higher airline ticket prices, but the link is not as direct as you think

Bottom line

This is going to be a big summer for travel to and within Europe.

Travel will be easier in terms of fewer restrictions, required tests and mask requirements. Do be aware that prices are steadily increasing, though, so finalize any plans now to avoid paying more down the line. With so many people resuming travel at once, there also will undoubtedly be a strain put on the understaffed travel industry — so you will need not just money but patience to navigate that European trip.

75+ Essential Europe Travel Tips You Need to Hear

Planning a trip to Europe and want to make sure you know exactly what to expect? These Europe travel tips will help you prepare!

We absolutely adore traveling in Europe–so much so that after spending more than 1.5 cumulative years traveling the continent, visiting most European countries along the way, we finally moved here!

Today, Lisbon, Portugal is our base between trips in Europe.

We’ve stayed in hundreds of hotels and apartments in Europe, visited countless cities and towns, and explored via plane, train, bus, and road trip.

Along the way, we’ve picked up plenty of travel tips for Europe, from cultural quirks to be on the lookout for, to ways to save yourself a few headaches or a bit of money.

Here are the best Europe travel tips to keep in mind before you go.

Table of Contents

A Quick Note on the Generality of Europe Travel Tips

Tips for staying in hotels + apartments in europe, restaurant tips for europe, europe travel tips for grocery shopping, tips for driving in europe, train travel tips for europe, bus + taxi travel tips for europe, tips for flying in europe, travel tips for paying for things in europe, logistical travel tips for europe, sightseeing tips for traveling europe, packing for your trip to europe.

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

Given that Europe is made up of around 53 independent countries and is roughly the size of the USA, obviously, these travel tips for Europe won’t be able to delve deeply into the individual intricacies that come with traveling somewhere that is home to such a variety of cultures, languages, and topography.

We’ve intentionally kept these Europe travel tips fairly high-level, and while they will help guide your general expectations for traveling on the continent–especially if you’re going on a multi-country trip–you’ll definitely want to follow up with additional research into your specific destinations.

We’d love to help with that, of course!

S ee our Destinations page or use the search bar in the top-right corner of the screen to see what information we have on the locations you’re headed to.

We’ve also primarily written this post from the perspective of people from the USA, and while we think that other non-Europeans will find value here as well, some of these Europe travel tips do speak to cultural differences between the USA and Europe specifically.

Hotels and apartments will commonly make a copy of or take a picture of your passport.

This is done for tax and licensing purposes on their end and is totally normal, so don’t worry about it!

Leaving your room key at the hotel when you go out is common.

This won’t happen absolutely everywhere, but just know that if a hotel asks you to leave the hotel key at the front desk when you leave for the day, this is perfectly reasonable.

For obvious reasons, you’re much more likely to find this practice in hotels with beautiful, old-fashioned keys.

Modern hotels with electronic room access don’t need to keep your physical key on hand.

You’ll need to pay a tourist tax in most places you visit.

This is collected by your hotel and increasingly by private apartments/Airbnbs (they’re required to do so).

This fee is set per person, per night, and is usually around 2-4 Euros, though it does vary.

So, for example, if you’re a couple spending 4 nights in a city with a 2 Euro tourist tax, you would owe 16 Euros: 2 Euros per person (aka 4 Euros per night for you as a couple), for 4 nights.

This tax must be paid in cash. There are exceptions–some upscale hotels will let you charge it and then handle the cash on their end–but we’ve only had that offered a couple of times. Cash is always deeply preferred.

Hotels will generally request the tax at the beginning of the stay, but most won’t make a big deal out of having you pay anytime before check out if you don’t have cash on hand during check-in.

These taxes are never paid before arrival–so even if you paid for your hotel in full through a service like Booking.com before checking in, you’ll still owe the tax upon arrival.

You’ll see these taxes imposed in most major European tourism destinations, but not necessarily everywhere on the continent.

Air conditioning is not a given.

If you’re visiting Europe during the summer, double-check that your hotel or apartment before booking.

Air conditioning isn’t always standard, even in countries that get quite hot, but it’s often very necessary in our opinion.

Don’t expect a clothes dryer.

Even if your apartment rental or Airbnb comes with a washing machine, you generally won’t find a dryer–but there will be a rack to line-dry your clothes on.

You may turn the electricity on in your hotel room with your key.

In some hotels, you’ll turn the electricity on and off by entering your hotel key into a slot near the door.

This is done in order to ensure electricity is used efficiently.

If the lights in your hotel room aren’t working when you arrive, keep an eye out for a slot to place the key in!

If you have mobility concerns, choose a place to stay carefully.

Narrow, steep staircases are not uncommon in Europe–we’ve climbed many of them to reach apartments or hotel rooms.

Elevators/lifts are also far from a guarantee, especially at small, family-run properties.

The first floor isn’t the first floor.

You run into this cultural difference in far more places than hotels, but the odds are good that your hotel will be the first place you experience it!

In Europe, floor levels are counted starting from 0, not 1.

So the ground floor is 0, the first level off the ground (what Americans would call the second floor) is the first floor, and so on.

Google Maps is excellent for finding reliably good food on the go.

Out sightseeing and not sure where to stop to eat?

We use Google maps and its reviews in order to find reliable restaurants nearby–and it virtually never steers us wrong!

Most importantly, it cuts the pressure to choose a restaurant just by looking at it down dramatically, making it easier than ever to avoid tourist traps.

Make note of the local tipping culture before you sit down.

Tipping culture in restaurants varies wildly throughout the continent. 

In some places, leaving nothing is normal.

Sometimes, you’re expected to round up a Euro or two.

In other places, 10% is the norm, and in still others, a standard fee is automatically added to the bill that serves as a tip.

Be sure to check the specifics before sitting down to avoid a faux pas!

Keep in mind that restaurants won’t always be open all day.

In many countries in Europe, it’s common for restaurants to close in the afternoon between lunch and dinner–usually roughly from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM, give or take.

Don’t shy away from reservations, especially in major cities.

If you want to eat at a particular restaurant, especially one that’s well-known, making reservations in advance will make all the difference.

If you’d rather not make them yourself, your hotel concierge is generally happy to help.

Slow service doesn’t mean bad service.

In most of Europe, polite service is reserved and slow–so don’t expect your waiter to hover over you, ask questions about your life, or bring the check until you ask for it (that would be considered rushing the customer).

It’s definitely a cultural difference from the USA, but honestly, we’ve grown to prefer it!

Waiting for a table is not common–you’re more likely to be turned away.

This goes along with the tip for traveling Europe listed above: since service is slower and meals are generally longer, it’s rare to be told that there’s an X-minute wait for a table at a restaurant.

Since those who have a table are welcome to keep it for the night, you’re more likely to be told the restaurant is full and to try again tomorrow.

The exception?

If you call to make a last-minute reservation and are willing to eat on the early side, you may occasionally get a restaurant that will seat you and say you’re welcome to come, but you have to give up the table by X time so the original reservation can take over.

Consider taking a food tour at least once during your trip to Europe.

Food tours are one of our absolute favorite ways to explore a new city (or just favorite ones).

Not only will they help you learn more about the cuisine and embolden you to order dishes for the rest of your trip that you may not have known about, but they’re also tons of fun and a great way to get a walking tour in–with a twist.

Devour Tours and Take Walks put on some of our favorite boutique food tours on the continent.

Get Your Guide often has fantastic options as well (and covers far more cities than the first two).

Asking for tap water is fine, but it’s not guaranteed.

Whether or not a free carafe of tap water will be provided to you depends not only on the country and city that you’re visiting, but even on that particular restaurant.

If you prefer to drink water with many meals, it’s generally worth a shot to ask.

“Gas or no gas?” is a question you’ll get asked in virtually any restaurant.

Pretty self-explanatory, but “gas” is sparkling water.

If you want to pay by card, ask for the card machine when you ask for the check.

The waiter will bring the card machine right to the table and run your card in front of you.

In Europe, taking your credit card out of the sight of its owner in order to run the charge would be a major faux pas–you will always keep your card with you!

Don’t forget to weigh your produce.

In the USA, you’ll bag your produce and then it will be identified and scanned at the register–but in Europe, that’s usually your job.

Each kind of produce will be marked with a number.

Take the number to the nearby scale, place your bag of produce on it (one type at a time, obviously), and press the respective number.

A sticker will automatically print with a barcode, weight, and price.

While this is the most common method, it’s not the only one–in some stores, the cashier will still weigh the produce at checkout.

Bring your own bags, or prepare to pay for them.

Plastic bags typically come with a small charge in Europe.

They’re available at the register in the supermarket, and you’ll either place however many you need on the conveyor belt yourself, or, if they’re stored under the register, the cashier will ask you how many you want (if any).

Of course, the best thing to do is to bypass this problem entirely and bring a reusable bag .

We love ours and have been using it to buy groceries in Europe (and for a myriad of other things) for years.

Consider buying produce at outdoor markets instead of the grocery store.

This varies depending on where you are, but in many places in Europe, grocery stores are better for basic staples–think yogurt, boxed foods, etc–and markets are a better place to get high-quality produce.

You might need an international driving permit.

This depends on the country and also what language your original license is printed in, so be sure to double-check requirements for any countries you plan to drive in before leaving for Europe!

Don’t drive your rental car to a different country without doing your research.

While it’s legal to cross borders in your car throughout much of Europe, that doesn’t mean your rental contract doesn’t prohibit it!

If you’re planning a multi-country European road trip, be sure to disclose exactly where you’re going when renting your car to make sure you have all the right permissions in your contract.

For finding the best rental car prices, we suggest searching via Discover Cars.

Discover Cars will search both international and local car rental brands to help you find the best prices for your dates, and it’s the search engine we use when renting cars in Europe.

The United Kingdom isn’t the only place you’ll need to drive on the left.

… if you’re headed to Ireland , Cyprus, or Malta , you’ll drive on the left there as well.

In Europe, you’ll generally only buy insurance for the car itself–not for liability.

Generally speaking, in Europe the car’s owner–ie the rental company–is required to carry liability insurance, which is why you’ll only be offered collision insurance (to cover literal damages to the car) in most cases.

If you’re planning on using your own rental insurance to cover a rental car, double-check the requirements.

Your insurance policy back home may generally cover you in a rental car–but that doesn’t necessarily mean that they will in Europe, or in each and every individual European country.

Rent the smallest car you can.

The roads in Europe–especially off the major highways–are typically smaller than what we’re used to in the USA.

Keep things simple (and affordable) with a small car.

Expect to pay lots of tolls.

Toll roads are extremely common throughout Europe, so you can expect to pay many of them on a European road trip.

Some places do accept credit cards, but it’s always best to have small bills on hand to pay cash when needed.

… and to deal with a high gas bill.

Fuel is typically much more expensive in Europe than in the USA.

Driving in cities is generally a nightmare. Avoid it if you can.

There is generally absolutely no reason to pay for a rental car in a major European city.

If you’re headed to places like London , Amsterdam, or Rome, skip the rental car and find other transport.

Rental cars shine in Europe when traveling in the countryside and small towns, and are best used to explore a rural or semi-rural region in depth.

We adore road trips in Europe, but tend to avoid major cities when we do them!

Don’t expect an automatic car unless you ask for it.

While most rental car agencies will have some automatic rental cars on hand for tourists, manual cars are much, much more common in Europe.

As a result, automatic cars also tend to be much more expensive to rent!

Pay attention to gas vs diesel.

Diesel cars are much more common in Europe than in the USA, and it’s imperative to remember which one you rent!

Putting gas into a diesel engine or vice versa is catastrophic to the engine, so proceed with an abundance of caution.

Trains are more useful in some parts of Europe than others.

In western and central Europe, train routes are plentiful: if you’re perusing these travel tips for Europe while planning a trip to places like Germany, Italy, France, the Netherlands, and the UK, you’ll have endless choices for trains.

As you move further east in Europe, though, the train routes become much more limited.

If your travel route is taking you to the Balkans, for example, you’ll be much more likely to use buses to get around than trains.

Traveling by train in Europe generally isn’t the cheapest option, but it is the most comfortable.

Between arriving and departing from centrally-located train stations instead of hard-to-reach airports, avoiding security lines and bag-check fees, and the general comfort of traveling on high-speed trains, there’s no doubt that train is our absolute favorite way to travel through Europe.

You’ll often be able to find flights that are cheaper, and even more frequently that buses are cheaper.

If you have room in your budget, though, we’ll always suggest traveling by train in Europe when the route makes logistical sense.

The differences between first class and second class tickets are generally minimal.

When traveling via fast train in Europe, buying a first-class ticket generally comes with slightly larger seats, sometimes the ability to reserve your exact seats when you can’t in second class (both of those facts vary based on the company you travel with, though) and possibly a small snack like a water bottle and a pack of cookies.

Generally speaking, the perks of first-class are nothing worth paying extra for in our opinion.

Consider using Omio to buy train tickets in Europe with ease.

This is especially true for inter-country trips where you’ll likely be traveling with multiple countries.

For example, when we took the train from Paris to Venice recently, we traveled with a French company from Paris to Turin and then an Italian company from Turin to Venice and booking through Omio made everything very simple.

Search  train routes and tickets prices in Europe  today!

You may also want to consider an Eurail pass.

Though Eurail passes are not the best fit for budget travelers, depending on where exactly in Europe you are going, they can be an excellent choice to help you move around the continent with ease.

Buses are generally the most affordable way to cover long distances in Europe.

… They’re also frequently the slowest and least comfortable, but they’re great for the wallet (and in some places, like parts of the Balkans , they’re the only viable public ground transportation option).

You can also use Omio to search for bus tickets.

Omio allows you to compare rates for bus services like Flixbus with train ticket prices to allow you to make the best choice based on a combination of travel time and price.

Search  bus routes in Europe  today!

Check for a local taxi app rather than hailing one off the street.

While Uber doesn’t exist everywhere in Europe, a similar equivalent–usually an app that hails an actual registered taxi, but not always–will exist in most major cities.

If you’re planning on hailing rides frequently in a city, downloading the local app should be one of the first things you do when you arrive.

Not all of the apps allow you to pay via the app itself like Uber, but they’re excellent for regulating prices and avoiding the uncertainty of negotiating a fare.

FreeNow is used in many places in Europe and is our go-to local taxi app.

Have a ground transportation plan before leaving the airport.

Metro, bus, taxi?

Know exactly how you’ll be getting from the airport to the hotel before you arrive, and your day will be much easier for it.

If you’ll be taking a taxi, look up and see if there’s a flat/set fare to get to the city center from the airport–there usually is, and it’s government regulated.

However, that won’t always stop drivers from telling you that your hotel isn’t in the center (it probably is).

Make careful note of what airports you fly in and out of.

This is especially important if you’re taking budget flights, as many of them fly out of a separate, less-expensive airport that is further out of the city 

For example, in Paris, a budget air flight is likely to avoid Charles de Gaulle and head right for Orly or even Paris Beauvais–which is over an hour outside the city!

Always check flights for a few different dates if possible.

Prices can vary dramatically for prices between different cities on different days, especially because many budget airlines only run bargain flights on certain routes a few days of the week.

… and consider being flexible with where you go.

For example, Bologna and Pisa are both less than an hour by train outside of Florence, but it’s often significantly cheaper to fly there than directly to Florence!

Don’t bother showing up at the airport more than 2 hours before your flight.

If you have to check bags, the counter won’t take them, and you’ll be stuck outside security until the 2-hour mark.

Of all these tips for traveling Europe, this is the one that probably took us the longest to get used to when we started traveling, as it’s such a huge change from how things are done in the USA!

Always carry cash.

While card use is prominent in Europe, it’s essential to have cash with you at all times.

You never know when you’ll happen into a cash-only restaurant or store!

Keep in mind that not all European countries use the Euro.

If you’re planning a multi-country trip to Europe, keep in mind that you’ll likely need to change currencies a few times.

For example, the UK, Switzerland , Czechia, Hungary , and Croatia all have their own currencies, as do many others.

The easiest way to get cash is from ATMs.

Leave your travelers’ checks in the 20th century and avoid the hassle and excessive fees of currency change stores.

For cash, head directly to the ATM.

Keep an eye on the fees, of course–for our fellow US citizens, be aware that Charles Schwab offers a checking account that refunds all ATM fees worldwide.

We never paid a single ATM fee in our 4 years as full-time travelers!

… but avoid Euronet ATMs like a plague.

The fees on Euronet machines are egregious and border on scam-worthy.

Find an ATM from an actual local bank instead!

Bring a Visa or Mastercard to Europe.

American Express, Discover, and Diners Club are not as commonly accepted.

… and ideally one with no foreign transaction fees.

In the USA at least, credit cards without foreign transaction fees are so common these days that it seems a shame to use anything else for your big trip to Europe.

Call your credit card company before you leave for Europe.

Otherwise, there’s a good chance your card will be blocked when you try to buy something abroad for the first time–and that’s the last thing you want to deal with on your first day in Europe!

Keep track of your coins.

While in the USA the largest coin we typically use is a quarter, Euro coins go as high as 2 Euro.

Be sure to spend them ASAP to avoid ending up with a heavy and cumbersome 20 Euro worth of coins (it’s not hard to do, trust me).

Don’t take unnecessary risks: purchase travel insurance for your trip to Europe.

Possibly one of the most important travel tips for Europe out there is to always purchase travel insurance for your trip.

Anything can happen on the road, and traveling abroad is definitely a case of better safe than sorry.

We use and recommend Safety Wing for trips to Europe.

Know your Schengen Zone from your non-Schengen Zone.

This is an especially important tip for traveling Europe if you’re planning a longer trip.

Most people reading this blog post (so US citizens, Canadians, Australians, etc) are entitled to stay up to 90 days out of any given 180 in the Schengen Zone , a group of European countries that have open borders with each other.

Not all of Europe is part of this agreement, however, so be sure to check visa rules before arriving!

… and in general, be sure to check visa requirements.

Turkey, for example, requires many nationalities, including US citizens, to get a visa in advance before arriving.

Regardless of your destination, it’s always best to double-check visa requirements before booking any tickets abroad.

Expect to pay to use the restroom.

Of course, this is one of the better-known Europe travel tips out there, but it still bears repeating.

In large public spaces like train stations, many toilets will require payment (though this is oversimplifying things– this guide goes into much more detail).

These costs can range from as little as .25 Euro to well over a Euro–if it does cost over a Euro, though, try to find another restroom if you can.

… and carry a small pack of tissues with you, just in case.

This is one of those travel tips for Europe that may never be important, but can be a lifesaver in the right situation!

Carrying a small pack of tissues has saved our very full bladders more than once when a public restroom was out of toilet paper (not an entirely uncommon situation).

One-way tickets are risky.

Technically, you must have transportation booked that shows when you’re leaving a country in order to enter most foreign destinations–the Schengen Zone and the UK included (and the UK is known for being stringent).

Airlines are typically tasked with enforcing this boundary, so if you’ve booked a one-way ticket to, say, Paris, don’t be surprised if you’re required to show proof of onward travel–another plane ticket, for example–at the gate before boarding.

Generally, the best advice is to have your exit plan in place before arriving.

Don’t try to see it all in one trip.

You can’t, of course, but one of the most important travel tips for Europe out there is simply… not to try.

We recommend spending an absolute minimum of two full days (so not including the day you arrive or depart) in each major city, and even that is for fast-paced travelers who are determined to stay on the go.

Don’t underestimate the time and effort it takes to change destinations.

“Oh, it’s only a 3-hour train ride away! That’s nothing!”

I think we’ve all said that at some point when planning a multi-country trip, but be cautious: 3 hours on the train doesn’t account for packing and unpacking, getting to and from the train station, checking out of and into a hotel… you get the picture.

If you’re looking at a high-level schedule without picking a specific date or time, you may also come to find that sure, there’s one direct 3-hour train between two cities… but it leaves at 10:00 PM or 6:00 AM, and the rest of the trains require layovers. 

Or perhaps the direct train only runs 3 days a week.

Or maybe you’re looking at a plane, in which case, be sure to add at least 4 hours to your transit time: getting to and from the airport and security/check-in beforehand.

Long story short, travel days between countries are virtually always more tiring and time-consuming than they look at first glance, so don’t overcommit on those days!

Wake up early as often as you can.

Want to get beautiful photos of world-famous monuments without crowds around them, or stroll empty streets, or have famous viewpoints all to yourself?

If so, then be sure to get acquainted with experiencing the sunrise.

Luckily, if you’re coming from North America, this is easier than it seems: the jetlag will help!

Don’t shy away from traveling during the off-season.

You may need a coat and to mentally prepare for gray skies and the possibility of rain, but traveling in some of Europe’s most popular (read: crowded) cities can be an absolute delight during the winter.

Cities like Paris , Rome , and Amsterdam see an absolute fraction of the tourists in January than they do in June, resulting in bargain-basement prices, shorter lines, and an overall more pleasant experience.

Learn at least a few phrases in the local language.

This isn’t for necessity, exactly–in major tourism destinations, virtually all Europeans that work in the tourism industry will speak some English–but for politeness.

Holy Week is a big deal.

Planning a spring trip to Europe? Check when Easter is!

In much of Europe, Easter isn’t just a religious holiday but a secular one as well.

As a result, many tourism destinations get incredibly crowded and expensive in the week leading up to Easter.

Think of it as a combination of US-style Christmas/winter break and Spring Break, and plan accordingly.

Consider picking up a local SIM card to get around.

If you have the ability to switch your phone SIM card yourself, absolutely consider buying a European one! Not only is data generally far cheaper than in the USA–we usually pay about 20 Euros/month for ours–it’s easy to get your hands on and will make everything about your trip, from choosing restaurants to finding your way around cities, infinitely easier.

Book tickets to must-see popular attractions in advance.

With limited time to explore Europe, one of our favorite Europe travel tips is to simply never wait in line.

Skip-the-line tickets and tickets booked in advance are rapidly becoming the norm around the continent, especially in a post-2020 world.

For some attractions (like the Arc de Triomphe) there’s no upcharge, and for others (like the Colosseum) it costs a few Euros more.

Either way, though, it’s money and planning time well spent.

We book all of our skip-the-line tickets through Get Your Guide and highly recommend their service.

Watch out for museum closures.

In many cities, there’s one day of the week when most museums close (in Florence, for example, it’s Monday).

When planning your trip, be sure to check museum hours for any must-see spots, as they’re frequently only open 6 days per week.

Try to avoid getting out-churched.

Europe is absolutely covered in opulent churches!

As impressive as they are, if you try to see as many as possible, you’ll likely end up feeling like they all start to look the same.

… and out-museumed.

You could spend years traveling in Europe and still not see everything its museums have to offer. 

One of our biggest Europe travel tips is not to try to see it all–and that includes all the major museums in any city.

Fun fact: if you spent 30 seconds with every work of art inside the Louvre, it would take over 100 consecutive days to see them all!

Get (at least a little) off the beaten path.

Whether that means exploring a neighborhood in a major city that sees fewer tourists, taking a day trip to a lesser-known small town, or heading to a country that sees dramatically fewer visitors than tourist hotspots like Italy or France, your trip to Europe will absolutely be enhanced by stepping a bit off the beaten path–whatever that means to you.

If your trip is focused on cities, try to plan at least one day trip.

Head to a small town or beautiful slice of nature to see an entirely different side of the continent.

On a busy multi-country trip, I know how hard it can be to justify leaving the world-famous cities, but it’s absolutely worth it.

Double-check your packing list.

We have detailed Europe packing lists for the summer , fall , and winter to help ensure you don’t bring too much or too little for your trip across the pond.

You’ll probably need an adaptor.

Plugs in Europe are likely different than those at home–plan ahead and ensure you’re able to charge your electronics abroad with adaptors like this .

… and maybe two.

While the adaptor I linked above can be used across most of Europe, certain countries, like the UK, Ireland, and Malta , use different plugs.

For those countries, you’ll want adaptors like this .

Keep in mind that these are different (and cheaper) than converters.

… which is what you’ll need if you plan to bring hairstyling products along with you, like a hairdryer or curling iron. 

Personally, as part of our travel tips for Europe, we recommend keeping it simple and leaving those items at home.

Most hotels and many apartments will have a small hairdryer available to use in a pinch.

Even in the summer, be sure to bring a jacket.

The outside might be stifling, but anywhere with a/c–trains, buses, and museums included–has a decent chance of being an absolute icebox at any given time.

Bring at least one church-appropriate outfit.

While the strictness of the dress code varies across the continent, generally you’ll want to avoid packing at least one outfit that covers your cleavage, shoulders, and knees.

Men can usually get away with shorts that hit at the knee, but not always.

Bring a travel journal.

This one is personal preference, but trust me: travel memories fade so fast, especially when you’re experiencing so many incredible things back-to-back, and one of my favorite travel tips for Europe is centered on helping you preserve them.

If you’re not big on huge time commitments, I can highly recommend my One Line a Day Journal .

I’ve kept mine for over 5 years now and have now moved onto my second volume, and my full journal is one of my most cherished possessions.

It only takes a couple of minutes each day, and I adore the memories that it has helped me preserve in detail.

Don’t forget to leave some extra room in your luggage.

Because you’re not coming all the way to Europe to leave without doing a little souvenir shopping, right?

Ideally, bring luggage you’re comfortable carrying.

This doesn’t necessarily have to mean a backpack, of course–but at the very least, one of our tips for traveling Europe is to be prepared to navigate a few train stations, airports, quick walks through the city, and staircases with your luggage in hand.

If you have mobility concerns that prevent this, be sure to budget for door-to-door transfers and transportation on days when you switch locations.

About Kate Storm

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

9 thoughts on “75+ Essential Europe Travel Tips You Need to Hear”

Great and useful information for my first trip to Western Europe in September. Thanks for sharing.

Instead of bringing a heap of adaptors for all your electronics, just bring one and buy yourself a power board from your own country and bring it with you, then you can plug everything into the 1 board, also look at powerboards with 1 or 2 usb slots and bring a USB lead for the plane or the airports

That last photo is definitely not Bolzano, it’s Innsbruck!

… Yes? As the alt tag says lol. Of course it’s Innsbruck.

Hi Kate ! Thank you so much for all of the information. Everything has been more than helpful. You might have mentioned this and i could have missed it but do you mind saying what your budget was and how much you ended up spending / needing to live on? I know every trip is different but i am just wanting an idea and ballpark of how much i need to save.

Hi Madison!

I would love to put a whole post together on this one day, as it’s detailed question to answer!

These days, we spend an average of $250-350/day or so when on the ground, for both of us plus our dog Ranger. That’s incredibly variable and doesn’t reflect traveling on a budget, but (often) staying in nicer hotels, renting a car, taking high-speed trains, eating in restaurants daily, taking tours, etc.

Our trips aren’t quite typical now, as we have a tendency to overload our schedule and try to do EVERYTHING, so we can write about it afterward!

If you’re on a strict budget and looking for hostels/takeaway food/just wanting to see the sights, there are places in Europe you can travel on $50/person/day–and we’ve done quite a bit of that too, once upon a time! If you look into our archives you’ll find a few of our on-the-ground travel budgets from our backpacking days in Croatia, Slovenia, Bosnia, and I think a few more.

And, of course, there’s no limit to how much you can spend on an ultra luxury vacation in Europe. 😉

Wel written, fun to read and with what seems to be very practical advice for travel to Europe. I was born and raised in the Netherlands but have been here so long I needed the refresher for today’s technology etc. Your blog was fun and filled with good, practical info. Love it.

Thank you! That’s exactly our goal. 🙂

Wow, great tips ! definitely helps for planning. Thank you so much !

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Rick Steves Just Told Us Everything You Need to Know About Traveling to Europe This Summer

"Be out early, be out late," Rick Steves told T+L. "Go to the less-famous places, and treat them like the famous places."

Rick Steves wants you to break away from the over-hyped sites when you travel.

"You find that everybody wants to go to the same places more than ever," he said.

Even still, this European travel expert and TV host, at the helm of the popular tour company Rick Steves' Europe , said there are plenty of smart ways to enjoy peak season.

"There are great alternatives to the famous places everybody is hell-bent on going to," Steves said in an interview with Travel + Leisure , having just returned stateside after a whirlwind 45-day research tour of more than 10 major European cities.

Across his best-selling guidebooks, TV shows, and small-group tours, Steves is a devoted advocate of embracing local culture, independent hotels, mom-and-pop restaurants, and alternative cultural sites over tourist traps.

Summer is certainly the most popular time to visit many European destinations , so Steves shared some of his top summer travel tips with T+L to help anyone planning a high-season vacation.

Avoid Herd Mentality

There is no off-seasonwhen it comes to the most popular sites, Steves said. Travelers who want to visit top spots like the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City or the Musée D'Orsay in Paris will need to book a ticket far in advance, and then still have to battle it out with the crowds once they arrive.

"The most grueling thing about travel is the heat and the crowds of summer," he said.

Steves' advice is to look for other museums or institutions that offer a similar, if not better, experience. For instance, he said travelers can almost always get into the Opera del Duomo Museum in Florence, instead of waiting at the better-known Uffizi Gallery. While visitors will have a hard time seeing Anne Frank's house in Amsterdam without a reservation, they can always get into the Dutch Resistance Museum instead, he said.

"There are so many unsexy sites that don't have the marquee value, and they are really good," Steves said.

He said summer visitors should try to build their itineraries around how they want to spend the majority of their limited time each day. Visiting the most iconic, famous sites now includes the added phenomenon of people all vying for the same selfie to post on social media, Steves said.

"Are you a traveler that's always dealing with lines and mob scenes?" he said. "It's not the mark of a good traveler that follows that crowd. And it's certainly not a way to enjoy Europe."

Take away the top 30 sites, Steves said, and Europe would be just as exciting — and there wouldn't be any crowds. "If people are smart, they're going to not be in that herd mentality," he said. "We talk about getting herd immunity. We've already got herd mentality, and in your travels, that's not a good thing."

Indulge in Local Favorites

Travelers will always need to make an advance reservation for certain museums and sites. In a departure from some of his previous advice, Steves said, he now also recommends booking one nice meal ahead of time. "My new thing about restaurants is, if you really have your heart set on a particular restaurant, you would be really wise to put it on your list of things to make a reservation for in advance," he said.

With the goal of updating his 50 most important guidebooks by the end of 2022 with new research from this year, Steves plans to address how the pandemic affected his previous recommendations.

On his recent trip, he was happy to see some of his favorite independent restaurants still had local clientele — people with the wanderlust and money to explore dining out in their own towns. "I thought I'd be raking away the corpses of all my favorite businesses to update my guidebooks," he said. "I'm so thankful that, by and large, the little businesses did well during the pandemic."

Steves said relying on a guidebook or recommendations from a few years ago is still fine, just make a habit of calling restaurants to confirm they are open, he said, and expect hours of operation for many businesses have probably changed.

"There's a curious sort of affluence in Europe right now," he said. "A lot of people are eager to get out, and a lot of restaurants are just jampacked. And it doesn't mean they're tourist traps at all. It just means they're good."

Visit 'Second Cities' Instead

For travelers still looking to book a summer trip, Steves recommends checking out a smaller "second city" in place of the area's most popular destination . "Everybody goes to Edinburgh; a second city would be Glasgow," he said. "Everybody goes to Dublin, why not Belfast? Everybody goes to Bath, why not Bristol? Everybody goes to Paris, why not Marseille? Everybody goes to Lisbon, why not Porto?"

He said these areas often lack the glitz and marketing prowess of the bigger cities, but still have top-tier offerings when it comes to great food, history, and culture — just without the crowds.

Location matters when it comes to summer weather as well, and Steves said he prefers to travel north of the Alps in the summer. "I want peak season, I want the good weather," he said. "I want the crowds in Ireland and Britain and Scandinavia, because that enlivens it."

Steves said where he dislikes dealing with crowds are places like Barcelona, Salzburg, and Amsterdam, where the summer masses can get a bit too intense.

No matter what time of year people are planning to visit Europe, Steves said he is just thankful people are traveling again after the pandemic put many plans on hold. When it comes to peak summer travel, applying some smart fundamentals is key to an enjoyable trip.

"Be out early, be out late," Steves said. "Go to the less-famous places, and treat them like the famous places."

The Ultimate Packing List for Europe in Summer

Figuring out what to pack for Europe is a something I have had to do a lot.  I’ve spent many summers in Europe so I have plenty of experience packing for Europe over the years.  For those of you traveling to Europe this summer and not sure what to wear or what to pack, I have put together the  ultimate packing list for Europe in summer .

Packing List for Europe in the Summer

Europe Packing List Summer – Travel Essentials for Europe

• European Travel Adaptor  – European travel adaptor  for your electronics

• External Battery  –   External battery  to recharge your phone, camera or other electronics (this is one of my  travel essential items  for any trip)

• Comfortable walking shoes  – You will be doing a lot of walking in Europe so comfortable walking shoes are a must for sightseeing. You might want to bring either casual sandals or comfortable flats .

• Camera/photography gear  – Europe is very photogenic so don’t forget to bring your camera!  If you are traveling alone or as a couple, you might want to bring a selfie stick/portable tripod  to take photos of yourself. Don’t forget to bring an extra memory card .

•  Scarf  –  A  lightweight scarf  will keep you warm on chilly summer nights or places with too much air-conditioning.  A scarf is also useful when visiting churches or cathedrals which require women to cover their shoulders.

• Lightweight pants and/or long dress/skirt for women – If you are going to be visiting churches, I recommend women bring at least one pair of light pants or a dress that covers the knees.

• Sunglasses  – Most countries in Europe (especially Southern Europe) are very sunny in the summer so sunglasses are a must!

• Reusable water bottle  –  A reuseable water bottle is a good way to save money on bottled water and also eco-friendly. I use  this insulated water bottle  because it keeps my water cool for hours.

• Hat – If you are going to spend a lot of time outdoors especially in the middle of the day, don’t forget to bring a hat for sun protection.  I recommend Coolibar hats  because they have excellent sun protection.

What to Wear in Europe – Clothes and Shoes

Europeans dress a bit nicer than most North Americans so I don’t recommend walking around in sweatpants or sneakers and shorts.  I recommend dressing fashionable especially in larger cities so you can try to blend in with the locals.

The temperature in Southern Europe during the summer can get very hot so you will need lightweight clothes.  The temperature in Northern Europe is more moderate or even cool and rainy so you will need long sleeve shirts, pants, an umbrella and a jacket or rain jacket.  I recommend checking weatherbase.com to look up the average temperature and rainfall to get an idea what the weather will be like when you are visiting.

• Dresses and skirts   – Bring at least 2-3 dresses/skirts.  A basic black dress is a must and can be worn from day to night.  Maxi dresses are also cute and comfortable for summer.

• Lightweight pants   –  Men should bring at least 2 pairs of lightweight pants for sightseeing and to wear at restaurants or bars.  Women might want to pack a pair of lightweight or linen pants as well. Avoid wearing jeans in the summer in Southern Europe as they will make you feel too hot!

• Shirts/tops  –  I recommend men bring at least 4 short sleeve shirts.  Women can get away with fewer tops if they pack more dresses.

• Sweater   – Pack at least 1 long sleeve sweater for chilly summer nights and air-conditioned places.

• Jacket   – Bring a light jacket.  Some parts of Europe (especially Northern Europe) might be cool in the summer even in the daytime.

• Comfortable walking shoes  – A must for sightseeing. Depending on your outfit you might want either casual sandals or comfortable flats or fashionable sneakers.

• Dressier sandals/cute flats/loafers   – Bring a dressier pair of sandals or cute flats that can be worn for dinner or drinks.

• Platform shoes for women  – Some places of Europe have cobblestone streets so I recommend women avoid high thin heels.  If you need some height, I recommend platform shoes.

• Shorts  – Personally I would avoid shorts in Europe unless visiting beach towns or resort areas.  If visiting mostly cities, I recommend wearing lightweight pants or skirts instead of shorts.

• Flip-flops  –  I recommend wearing cute and comfortable sandals when walking around a European city or town but you might want to bring a pair of flip flops to  wear at the beach or at hostels and hotels.   Havaianas flip flops are my favorite because they have great traction and don’t slip when walking on wet surfaces.

• Underwear, socks and bras  –  Depending on how long you are visiting Europe and how often you will do laundry, bring at least 5 pairs of underwear, 3 pairs of socks and 2 bras.  If you are checking luggage, pack at least 1 of each in your  carry on bag  in case your checked luggage is lost or delayed. ExOfficio underwear is great for travel because it is breathable, quick-drying fabric and odor-resistant.

Europe Packing List – Other Things to Pack for Europe

• Passport • Cash, credit cards, ATM cards (make sure your credit card does not charge a foreign transaction fee) • Drivers license and international drivers license if planning on driving • COVID vaccine card and/or negative COVID test (if required) • Glasses, contacts, contact lens solution • Medication and prescriptions • Face Masks – Masks may be required at your destination so pack a few face masks •  Antibacterial wipes  or  hand sanitizer • Electronics (smartphone, computer, tablet,  kindle , cords, cameras, memory cards) • Toothbrush, toothpaste and floss • Toiletries (makeup, lotion, deodorant, tissues, comb/brush, feminine products, q-tips, razor, shampoo/conditioner/soap) • Noise cancelling headphones  or  earplugs and  eye mask • Compression socks  to prevent DVT on long flights  and drives •  Body wipes  to wipe off sweat • First aid kit (band aids, pain reliever, allergy medicine, anti-nausea medicine, antacid tablets, charcoal tablets ) • Lip balm with UV protection – Don’t forget to protect your lips! Most people apply sunscreen but they overlook sun protection for their lips • Sunscreen  – Don’t forget to bring sunscreen to protect you from the sun. Sunscreen is easy to find in Europe so it is not the end of the world if you forget to pack it. • Insect repellent • Travel umbrella and/or rain jacket – Some parts of Europe can be rainy even in the summer • Bandana – A bandana is so versatile, you can use it to wipe off sweat or use as a scarf or mask • Beach bag – For carrying your beach essentials if planning some time at the beach or pool. • Bathing suits/sarong/kaftan  – If planning to hit the beach or pool. • Universal waterproof phone case  – Keep smartphones dry with this  waterproof case  when hanging out at the beach. • A  quick drying travel towel for the beach or if you are staying at a hostel that does not provide towels • Packing cubes • Day bag, tote or purse for sightseeing • TSA approved locks • Notebook and pen

These are my travel essentials for a summer in Europe. Is there anything else I should add to my Europe packing list ?

Need some travel inspiration for your trip to Europe? Check these articles about the best European travel destinations:

• Best Road Trips in Europe You Need to Visit
• Most Beautiful Cities in Europe You Need to Visit
• Underrated Cities in Europe
• Beautiful Towns in Europe Straight Out of a Fairytale
• Europe Bucket List: 100+ Epic Things to Do in Europe

Related Posts

savvyglobetrotter

Looks like a good thorough list. Very accurate in my experience. I’m a huge fan of noise-canceling headphones as well! 🙂 And a scarf is always great, like you said.

I am one of those last minute before leaving to travel packers. and also miss stuff, I needed a check list and printed this post out, thank you Ma’am.

Really useful list, I need to save it, I always forgot something while I’m packing. Thanks!

I just did a packing list post myself on my blog. Loved reading yours, many of things are same/similar to my list 🙂 I have been thinking of using packing cubes, what do you think about it? Good idea? or Nah…

This is a really extensive packing list, you have really covered yourself here.

Love all these tips for packing for a trip to Europe during the summer. As someone who lives in Europe (until Brexit comes in at least LOL), I’d definitely recommend all of these. Just a note, reusable water bottles can be used in most places in the UK as our tap water is safe. Though if you’re hitting countries like Greece or Cyprus around the Med then I’d advise non-Europeans to be careful with tap water, as it may not agree with you and isn’t always the safest. Happy travels! X

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Adventures of Alice

A Complete Packing List for Europe: Summer Essentials

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Summer in Europe is a magical time of year that beckons you to roam the historic streets of Rome, savour the delicious pastries of Paris , and bask in the beauty of Barcelona’s beaches. As the temperature rises and the sun shines brighter, summer in Europe is the perfect time to explore. But before you get lost in the magic of it all, let’s talk about the elephant in the room – putting together a packing list for Europe. Strict airline baggage allowances and the ever-changing European weather mean knowing what to pack for summer in Europe can feel like a daunting task.

With so many destinations and activities on offer, it can be a challenge to curate a packing list that balances fashion, function, and comfort. I’ve been at both ends of the spectrum. I’ve stared at the empty insides of my case not knowing what to pack and had to sit on it to zip it up wondering if I really needed everything inside.

I also convinced myself that ‘just in case’ is better than forgetting stuff, right? Well, possibly, but if you’re travelling with carry-on only , then you could end up with a hefty fine for going over the packing limit. So, there’s definitely a middle ground.

But fear not, as it doesn’t have to be complicated. As a seasoned traveller who’s explored many of Europe’s summer hotspots , I’m here to share my top packing tips and tricks to help you pack smart and light for your summer adventure in Europe.

Full Packing List for Europe in Summer

• Travel Insurance
• Boarding Tickets
• Travel Debit Card / Money
• International Driving Permit
• Packing Cubes
• Clear Carry-on Bag for Liquids
• Reusable Water Bottle
• Portable USB Charger
• Charging Cables
• Beach Towel
• Airplane Entertainment
• Travel Adaptor Plug
• Hand Sanitizer
• Light Jacket
• 1-2 x T-Shirts
• 2-3  x Vest Tops
• 2  x Pairs of Shorts
• 2  x Skirts
• 1 x Pair of Denim Jeans
• 1 x Pair of Comfortable Trousers
• 1 x Pair of Leggings
• 2 x Sundresses
• 1 x Maxi Dress
• 2 x Cardigans
• 7-8 x Pairs of Underwear and Socks
• 1-2 x Bikini
• 1 x One-piece
• 1 x Sandals
• 1 x Comfortable Trainers
• Shampoo and Conditioner
• Moisturiser
• Paracetamol
• Antihistamines
• Motion Sickness Tablets

Travel Packing Essentials

The absolute basics.

Passport – The backbone of any adventure be it Europe or the rest of the world, the first thing you need to pack is your passport. I can’t count the number of times I’ve double and triple-checked whether I’ve packed the passports as we’re driving to the airport. Countries in Europe don’t tend to accept passports with less than 3 months’ validity. But it’s best to renew it when it reaches 6 months, just to be safe. 

Travel Insurance – You honestly never know what could go wrong when you’re travelling abroad, so I always ensure I have valid travel insurance. I tend to go for an all-world annual policy, but you can also buy insurance for individual trips. I recommend Safety Wing , as they are affordable, easy to use, and specialize in nomadic travel insurance.

Boarding Tickets – I always make sure to check in to my flight at least 24 hours before (once again, you could face fines if you don’t), and screenshot my boarding pass on my phone. This makes navigating the airport so much easier. If you have an iPhone, you can also add your boarding pass to Apple Wallet depending on the airline.

Travel Debit Card / Money – I don’t personally exchange currency before I travel anymore. I much prefer taking a travel debit card with me with all my spending money prepaid onto it. Then, I can withdraw from a cash point for free while I’m out there and I don’t end up with a load of unused foreign currency at the end of my trip. I use Starling Bank every time I travel. They are great, use a much better exchange rate, and have a handy app that automatically converts every transaction I make.

A Few Extras

GHIC Card – Most people don’t think about medical emergencies when they’re deciding what to pack for summer in Europe. But unfortunately, they do happen. If you end up falling ill on your trip, having a valid GHIC card will ensure that you can pay a discounted rate for treatment.

International Driving Permit – If you plan on renting a car abroad, you might need an international driver’s permit with you. This will save any awkward encounters at the car hire desk!

Must-Haves Gear for Summer in Europe

The necessities.

Packing Cubes –  Not only can packing cubes keep you well-organized, but they can also effectively compress your clothes, allowing you to pack more efficiently and maximize space in your luggage.

Clear Carry-on Bag for Liquids – I swear by these for airports because I can never fit my toiletries in the plastic bags airports provide. It also means I don’t have to spend time at security taking all my liquids out. I can simply place my liquids in the bag and breeze through with no problem. I use one like this. (Bear in mind that this doesn’t work with all airports in Europe and you may still need to separate things occasionally).

Day Bag – A handy bag for day-to-day use, this ensures that I can take all my essentials with me when I’m out and about. I tend to bring two-day bags with me – a backpack like this for exploring and photography and then a smaller, shoulder bag for the evenings .

Reusable Water Bottle – I swear by my reusable water bottle. Able to keep drinks cool for up to 24 hours (and drinks warm for up to 12 hours – ideal for winter trips ), this is a godsend in warmer temperatures. It’s also a great way to save money and save the environment as you don’t have to keep buying reusable plastics. 

Sunglasses – An absolute must for summer in Europe. I forgot my sunglasses once and had to buy a cheap pair that dug into my nose so, safe to say, these are essential . Make sure you pick ones with UVA and UVB protection.

Beach Towel – For chilling on the sand, a beach towel is very useful. I like to use a microfiber one which also helps stop sand from creeping onto it. But you could also get a cotton one .

Hand Sanitizer – Even before COVID-19, this was a staple in my bag. When taking public transport around Europe or even just exploring public spaces, it’s great for keeping clean.

Camera – I take my Fuji-XT3 on every trip I take. It’s essential for taking great travel photography and I also bring at least two lenses, typically my everyday lens and my wide-angle lens . Don’t forget to pack your SD card too.

Portable USB Charger – My phone is my staple for directions when I travel. If it dies, then it can be a bit of a struggle to find directions back to my accommodation. So, I always bring my portable charger in my day bag. 

Charging Cables – Essential for plugging into the portable charger. I usually bring my iPhone cable and my camera charger cable.

AirPods – I’ll be honest, I’m a bit of a nervous flier! I have a particular playlist on Spotify that helps me relax for take-offs and landings. As such, my AirPods are a travel essential. 

Airplane Entertainment – You can’t go wrong with a good book and you’ll usually find a copy of The Philosopher’s Stone in my carry-on bag! I also tend to bring my iPad for movies or games and recently invested in a travel-sized connect 4 .

Travel Adaptor Plug – Essential for charging devices or using tools like travel straighteners, don’t forget to pack your adaptation plug. I use this one that’s adaptable all over the world. 

Packing List for Europe in Summer: Wardrobe Essentials

T-Shirts – I recommend packing 1-2 comfortable t-shirts for summer in Europe. Neutral colours make it easier to mix and match these with different bottoms. White , black , grey, and beige are all good colour choices.

Vest Tops – You’ll want some vest tops to combat the heat at this time of year. Once again, packing neutral colours will make matching these easier. These are also small and easy to pack, so I recommend bringing 2-3 different vest tops. 

Light Jacket – You might not think you need to add a jacket to your packing list for Europe. But even in summer, you can experience some chilly evenings, strong wind, or even rainy days. So, this jacket will help you stay prepared. 

Cardigan – For a light cover-up, you’ll want to pack a few cardigans. Pick lightweight, neutrally coloured options and they’ll go with most of your outfits. I also suggest using a combination of short and long cardigans for variety. I usually pack two cardigans – a short one , and a long one .

Sunhat – To protect your head and add a touch of style to your outfit, a chic sunhat is a must.

The Bottoms

Shorts – You can’t go wrong with a pair of shorts, especially when visiting Europe in summer. I tend to pack one pair of denim shorts , and one pair of floaty fabric shorts for those really hot days when I want something a little loser. 

Skirts – I love skirts when I travel and tend to take my favourite floaty floral one on every trip I go on. I also pack a denim skirt for easy style.

Denim jeans – You honestly never know what the weather is going to do, so, when packing for Europe in summer, bringing at least one pair of jeans is a must.

Comfortable trousers – Cute floaty trousers can make a great summer outfit. I like to pack a pair of these for every trip to Europe . 

Leggings – These are mainly my aeroplane bottoms. I have learned not to wear jeans on a plane (it can get super uncomfortable) so I usually wear my leggings on the plane and leave them in my case until I fly back home.

Underwear and socks – I usually pack about 7-8 pairs of each. 

The Outfits

Sundresses – A good few sundresses are an absolute must on any European packing list! I always pack one or two cute floaty dresses.

Midi or Maxi Dress – A stylish addition to your case, longer dresses are super comfortable and versatile. You can wear them for a casual day about town or dress them up for a night out.

Romper – For really warm days, my romper comes in very handy. Quick to just throw on and go, it’s essential in my summer case.

The swimwear

Bikini – For the pool or the beach, you can’t go wrong with a bikini . I recommend packing 1-2 bikinis, especially if you love spending time in the water.

One-piece – I always pack my one-piece as well. If I know I’m going to be in the water, but a little more active (perhaps participating in water sports, or playing volleyball on the beach), I prefer something a little more secure.

The Footwear

Sandals – A must on any packing list for Europe, you can’t go wrong with a pair of sandals. I recommend picking 2 pairs – one that is comfortable and sturdy like these , and something a little more fun for evenings out. 

Comfortable trainers – You’ll also want to bring a pair of trainers with you. For those days when you’re out exploring (perhaps chasing waterfalls in Croatia or exploring ancient ruins in Greece ), these will be essential.

Packing List for Europe in Summer: Toiletries

For in the shower.

Shampoo and Conditioner – I absolutely love Olaplex. Their shampoo and conditioner do wonders for your hair and their 100ml bottles are small enough to fit in a carry-on case.

Leave-in conditioner – To prevent unbearable frizz in the warm European weather, you’ll want a leave-in conditioning treatment for your hair. Once again, I go for Olaplex, this time number 6 .

Shower Gel – A travel-sized shower gel is a must. Alternatively, you can use the hotel miniatures, if you want to save room in your toiletries bag.

Razor – So you can still get your legs out at the end of your trip!

Facewash – I tend to bring a cleansing wash with me to keep the skin on my face healthy. 

For out the shower

Deodorant – A must for warm weather. I love stick deodorants like this and they work really well. Plus, they’re refillable, so good for the environment too.

Makeup – This depends on what you wear. But typical staples include foundation, eyelash curler, mascara, eyeliner, eyebrow pencil, and tweezers. 

Perfume – I love my travel perfume. I have several 100ml versions of my favourite perfumes that I always bring with me when I travel. This is my current favourite. If you don’t have travel-sized perfumes, pour your regular perfumes into travel bottles .

Toothpaste and toothbrush – Another essential. If you have an electric toothbrush, don’t forget to charge it before you leave or bring your charger with you.

Sunscreen – Summer can get pretty warm which is why sunscreen is essential on any Europe packing list. Bring one with a good sun protection factor of 30 or above. 

After Sun – For keeping your skin silky smooth after prolonged sun exposure, packing a good after sun is a must. 

Face moisturizer – I also like to bring a separate moisturizer with me for my face, to keep my skin protected. 

Lip balm – Another absolute must for summer weather, I take my chapstick on every trip I go on.

Just in case

Paracetamol – I tend to take a box of painkillers with me when I travel as a precaution. There’s nothing worse than getting a headache while you’re away or even injuring yourself. My fiance once tripped over a curb and bruised his foot – paracetamol was a lifesaver.

Antihistamines – I also take antihistamines with me when I travel just in case I get hay fever or bitten by a bug. 

Motion sickness tablets – Once again, these are just a precaution, but, if like me, you tend to get a little motion sick, then these will help you enjoy things like boat trips much more.

Packing for a summer trip to Europe doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With a little planning, some smart choices, and the right mindset, you can pack everything you need for a memorable and stress-free adventure. 

By sticking to versatile, lightweight, and breathable clothing, bringing the right accessories, and packing smart, you can create a well-rounded wardrobe that can adapt to a wide range of activities and destinations. Remember to consider the climate and cultural norms, and be mindful of any baggage restrictions or weight limits. And most importantly, don’t forget to leave some space in your luggage for souvenirs. 

With this summer packing list for Europe, you can travel light, comfortably, and stylishly, and fully enjoy the endless wonders that Europe has to offer in the summertime. Bon voyage!

My favourite tools for finding cheap travel

• SKYSCANNER – For amazing flight deals.
• BOOKING.COM – For affordable hotels and accommodation.
• SAFETY WING – For affordable, reliable travel insurance.
• DISCOVER CARS – For cheap car hire around the world.
• OMIO – For trains, coaches, and transfers.
• GET YOUR GUIDE – For attractions and tours.
• AIRALO – For a global eSim that keeps you connected.

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a small commission if you make a purchase. But, I only recommend products and companies that I use and love.

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The Ultimate Europe Summer Packing List

Caroline Morse Teel

Caroline Morse Teel is the Managing Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Follow her adventures around the world on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline.

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Overpacking is the quickest way to start your European trip off on the wrong foot. Charming cobblestone streets, boutique hotels without elevators, and packed public transportation mean you don’t want to be hauling around an oversized suitcase. 

A streamlined European packing list is essential—you want to look good in all your photos in front of famous sites, blend in with local fashion, and be comfortable for miles of walking every day. 

We’ve put together the ultimate European summer packing list for smarter travelers to follow—you’ll be comfortable, stylish, and mobile (without that giant checked bag).

Summer weather in Europe can be fickle, so packing a good pair of jeans is always smart in case the temperatures drop in the evening. Mott & Bow’s Slim Boyfriend Jeans are made from a soft, lightweight twill denim fabric that’s lighter and more comfortable than regular denim. 

The white jeans help keep your outfit looking summery, and by some miracle, Mott & Bow’s jeans aren’t see-through like most white pants. 

Light Shirt/Scarf

If you’re visiting any religious/historical sites in Europe, you may be asked to cover your shoulders and knees out of respect. Keep a lightweight scarf with you so you can comply on an impromptu visit without overheating during the rest of the day.

The Ultimate Packing Checklist

Dresses are the most versatile piece of clothing you can pack for your European trip, as they can be worn with sneakers during the day or made fancier at night with heels. For hot summers, you can’t beat linen— Quince’s 100 percent European Linen Button Front Dress was practically designed for European trips.

Made from breathable and heat-regulating linen, the dress will keep you cool. The removable belt and functional buttons give you multiple looks with just one piece of clothing and best of all, the dress features pockets. 

Cozy Earth’s Coastal Comfort Mock Neck Short Sleeve Button Down is the perfect mix of casual and pulled-together. Made from a blend of tencel and linen, this top is ultra-breathable and feels significantly cooler than cotton. 

The fabric uses an enhanced weave that helps prevent pilling, so this shirt will still look brand-new after many trips.

Since they take up such minimal space, you’ll never regret packing a swimsuit . There are so many beaches, lakes, and even hotel pools to explore in Europe, you won’t want to miss any opportunity for a dip. 

If you tend to burn easily, and don’t want to be bothered frequently getting out of the water to reapply, the AKHG Lost Lake Long Sleeve swimsuit is a great option—the floral print and zipper keep it cute, while the extra coverage gives you plenty of sun protection. 

The Best Swimsuits for Any Type of Vacation

Lightweight Pants

A lightweight pair of pants can protect you from the sun, keep you covered for historical church visits, and help you look like a local (if you choose the right ones). Ditch the heavy denim in favor of something with a bit more stretch, like Mott & Bow’s Twill Chinos

These pants have just the right of flexibility but are structured enough that they won’t get baggy halfway through your trip. The khaki color is perfect for summer, and can be dressed up or down depending on your plans for the day. 

Accessories

Crossbody Purse

The perfect purse for Europe can be worn crossbody style (which makes it harder to steal), goes with any outfit, is versatile, and is big enough to hold the essentials (but not too large, since you’ll be carrying it all day).

Quince’s Italian Leather Quilted Wallet Crossbody ticks all the boxes. Made from soft Italian leather, the purse will be right at home in Europe, and the quilted design works well from day to night. The bag can be worn as a crossbody, or you can remove the chain to use it as a clutch. 

Coin purses have fallen out of fashion in the US, but they can come in handy in Europe, where lower denominations of currency are in coins instead of bills. Don’t end up with a heavy stash of coins buried in your bag—keep your change organized and accessible in a zippered pouch . 

The 24 Best RFID Wallets to Protect You Identity

Keep the sun off of your face and your outfit looking stylish with a sun hat. These packable options from Madewell are perfect, since they can be stuffed in your bag (without getting destroyed) when you’re not wearing them. 

Refillable Water Bottle

Although tap water is safe to drink in Europe, it’s not commonly offered for free at restaurants (you’ll likely have a choice of bottled still or sparkling water instead). However, in some destinations, you may find public drinking fountains readily available. Save money (and the environment) by packing your own reusable water bottle, like this one from LARQ , which automatically cleans itself using UV technology. 

The LARQ bottle comes in both an insulated and non-insulated version, so you can choose between having a light weight to carry or having perfectly chilled beverages all day long. 

Pack a pair of sandals you can wear to the beach, hotel pool, and for short walks. Ipanema’s Trendy Sandals feature a minimalist style that will blend in anywhere. The lightweight sandals are made from PVC so they can be easily rinsed off after every wear.

You’ll spot chunky white sneakers on the feet of many stylish Europeans this summer. Join the crowd with New Balance’s classic 550 sneakers . The low top and clean silhouette go with everything from jeans to dresses, and there’s plenty of arch support and cushioning to keep you comfortable. 

The 8 Best White Sneakers for Travel

Pack no-show socks that will actually stay up if you’re going to be doing a lot of walking. These ones from Bombas have grips on the heel that help to keep them in place. 

Toiletries/Miscellaneous 

In addition to the same toiletries you’d pack for any destination (toothbrush, toothpaste, hand sanitizer, etc.) here are some important ones to remember for Europe:

Even if you’re not hitting the beach in Europe, sunscreen is still a must-pack for summer trips. Sun Bum smells good and doesn’t leave a white cast, so you’ll forget you’re wearing it.

A travel-sized pack of tissues can come in handy for more than just the sniffles (like at a public bathroom that’s run out of toilet paper.)

Medications

In some European destinations, you’ll have to visit an actual pharmacy to purchase even over-the-counter medications, and these pharmacies tend to have somewhat limited hours. 

Pack sample-size packets of medicines just in case, so you don’t have to waste time hunting down a pharmacy if you have a headache or stomachache. 

The Best Over-the-Counter Sleeping Pills for Long-Haul Flights

Electronics

Don’t forget to pack a pair of headphones for the long flight over from the United States. Skullcandy’s Push Active Earbuds are wireless but still secure (in case you plan on working out while you’re on vacation).

The earbuds are voice-controlled, so you don’t have to stop what you’re doing to change songs or take a phone call. 

Appliances in Europe run on 220 volts, while ones in America use 110 volts. Fortunately, most modern appliances (like iPhones) automatically switch voltage, so you won’t need to worry about bringing an electricity converter (but double-check your electronics before trying to use them abroad). 

However, you will need to pack an adapter in order to use standard plugs in Europe. 

Portable Charger

It’s easy to run down the battery on your phone when you’re snapping pictures and taking video to capture all the memories—and constantly using maps to figure out directions. A portable charger can revive your battery without you having to go back to the hotel or find a place to plug it in.

Biolite Charge Series Portable Charger Review

Travel Documents

As with any trip, don’t forget these important travel documents:

• Copies of passport (you can scan them to your phone or the cloud instead of carrying paper)

Although most places in Europe accept credit cards, you’re still likely to find a few cash-only destinations, so make sure you bring some cash with you.

When you are using a credit card, make sure you’re choosing one that doesn’t charge a foreign transaction fee , as those can quickly add up.

Download Our Ultimate Packing Checklist for Europe

When its time to start packing, download our editable checklist here .

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The Ultimate Packing List for Europe in Summer + Packing Tips

by Sharyn McCullum | Last updated Mar 29, 2024 | Europe live work and play , Gear, Luggage + Packing

So you are going on a summer holiday in Europe. You’ve planned the perfect European itinerary . Your travel and accommodation is all booked. You just need to pack now. But what do you pack for a summer in Europe? Well, I’ve been through Europe a number of times and in all seasons and learnt what to pack and what to leave behind for a European holiday. To make it easier for you, I have put together the ultimate packing list for Europe in summer from my first hand experiences. It’s designed to help you choose the essentials for travelling Europea in summer. So let’s get packing.

This post contains affiliate links. Read my full disclosure here .  

Table of Contents

What to Wear in Europe in Summer – Your Style Guide for Europe

The good news is that Europe is basically always hot during the summer months – so you can leave all the heavy sweaters and coats at home! Unless you plan to go high into the Alps on your European holiday and then you might need some winter clothing items . But in general, packing for a European summer holiday is different to a packing list for Europe in winter.

Europeans have the reputation for being fashionable people who dress nicely. After all, Paris and Milan are known fashion capitals. None of this walking around in shorts, sweatpants and sneakers! Unless you are off to the beach or the gym!

When planning your Europe packing list for summer, so you don’t look like a tourist , it is best to dress to blend in. You have less chances of being targeted if you do. I recommend you dress fashionably, especially in the larger cities. Also, as you are travelling around Europe in the summer time, there can be some very hot long days and so these clothes not only need to be fashionable, they need to be lightweight and comfortable also.

Your Europe Summer Outfits Tips

My biggest tips for packing for a European summer trip are:

• Your Europe summer outfits should be clothes you can mix and match, so you can wear them more than once.
• Take lightweight, comfortable and fashionable clothes.
• Choose clothes made from fabrics that breath, yet dry quickly.
• Wear layers – if its hot you can take them off and if cold, you can put something on.
• Consider the different European cultures on your packing list for Europe. Some cultures require women to cover up before entering into cathedrals and mosques.

How to Carry Your Things around Europe? – Your Luggage Guide for Europe

Luggage is very important to carry all your items through Europe. And the type of luggage you take can make or break your trip. You probably think that is a big statement, and yes, it is, but it is true. Taking the wrong type of luggage on your European vacation can really hinder you.

To choose the right luggage for you, consider the type of travelling you will be doing. Are you backpacking through Europe or going on an organised tour? In general, you have two choices –  Travel Backpack or a Suitcase with wheels .

Both of these luggage options have pros and cons . A travel backpack is far easier to carry around particularly if you are getting on and off transport often. Ensure you get the right size as there is nothing worse than having an uncomfortable backpack on your back. A wheeled suitcase is also a good option but difficult to pull along when you are on the move over the many cobblestoned roads and long-winded European staircases. Keep a look out for the hybrid backpack and suitcase – it is basically a backpack with wheels – best of both worlds. Check out this hybrid backpack .

Other luggage items that will help you pack appropriately include:

• Travel Wallet for your documents.
• Day Pack or Cross Body Bag – one of these will be useful for carrying things around for a day of sightseeing.
• Packing Cubes – these are great to sort your luggage. Read my review on packing cubes here .
• Hanging Toiletry Bag – one of these will help you keep all your toiletries in the one place
• Money Belt – these are useful to hide your valuables such as your passport and credit cards but I now use a more stylish messenger bag . Read my review on messenger bags here.

Let’s Pack Your Bag for Europe

I’ve divided the following into what to wear in Europe for ladies summer and what to wear in Europe for men summer for your convenience. Whether you are backpacking through Europe or going on an organised tour, my packing list for Europe in summer is adaptable for both types of travelling.

Europe Summer Packing List: Womens Clothes and Shoes

• Dresses and skirts  – bring at least 2-3 dresses and/or skirts. Dresses that are casual that can be worn during the day, yet able to be warn at night. Maxi dresses are great for this.
• Lightweight pants – a pair of lightweight or linen pants for those days when it is a little cooler or for going out.
• Leggings – 2 pairs. Great for when you are travelling, exercising or relaxing for a day at the hostel or hotel 
• Jeans – a pair will be useful for when the weather isn’t so stiflingly hot. Plus, if you like to wear them, wear them.
• Shorts – 1 or 2 pairs of shorts will come in handy for those days spent visiting beach areas. I suggest avoid wearing them around the European cities and wear dresses, skirts and lightweight pants. Avoid really short shorts as you may not be allowed entry into some religious buildings if you’re not covered up.
• Shirts/tops/t-shirts  – I recommend bringing 3-4 tops to mix and match with skirts, pants and shorts.
• Sweater/Jumper/ Hoodie  – Pack at least 1 long sleeve sweater or hoodie for chilly summer nights and air-conditioned places.
• Waterproof lightweight Jacket   – Bring a waterproof light jacket. Some parts of Europe (especially Northern Europe) might be cool in the summer even in the daytime. And it can rain anytime.
• Comfortable walking shoes  – A must for sightseeing and continuous walking around streets. And for those hikes. Depending on your outfit you might want either casual sandals or comfortable flats or fashionable sneakers.
• Dressier sandals or shoes – 1 or 2 pairs for going out at night. Maybe a pair of platform shoes or stilettos if that’s what you like to wear out.
• Thongs/Flip-flops – I recommend taking one pair to wear to the beach or to the shower blocks. I suggest not wearing while sightseeing as they don’t provide much support for your feet and you will be walking on many cobblestoned streets. A more supportive sandal will be much better.
• Underwear and socks – depending on your length of time you are visiting Europe for I suggest bring at least 7 pairs of underwear, yes, one for every day, and 3-4 pairs of sox. Maybe 2-3 bras.
• Swimsuit – 1 pair unless your are spending many days at the beach and want to change outfits.
• Sarong – these are so versatile. You can wear it to the beach, to the shower blocks and to wrap around your clothes to cover up in a church.
• Nightwear – pyjamas
• Scarf   –  A  lightweight scarf will keep you warm on chilly summer nights or places with too much air-conditioning.  A scarf is also useful when visiting churches or cathedrals which require women to cover their heads and or shoulders.

Europe Summer Packing List: Mens Clothes and Shoes

• Lightweight pants    –  bring at least 2 pairs of lightweight pants for sightseeing and to wear out to restaurants or bars.
• Shorts – a pair or two of nice shorts for when visiting beach areas.
• Shirts/tops/t-shirts  –  I recommend men bring at least 4 short sleeve shirts, tops or t-shirts.
• Sweater/Jumper   – Pack at least 1 long sleeve sweater or hoodie for chilly summer nights and air-conditioned places.
• Waterproof lightweight Jacket    – Bring a waterproof light jacket. Some parts of Europe (especially Northern Europe) might be cool in the summer even in the daytime. And it can rain anytime.
• Comfortable walking shoes  – A must for sightseeing and continuous walking around streets. And for any hikes. Depending on your outfit you might want either casual sandals or comfortable flats or fashionable sneakers.
• Dressier shoes or loafers – 1 or 2 pairs for going out at night.
• Underwear and socks – depending on your length of time you are visiting Europe for I suggest bring at least 7 pairs of underwear, yes, one for every day, and 3-4 pairs of sox.
• Bandana  – these are so versatile, you can use it to wipe off sweat or use as a scarf or mask

TIP : Don’t wear new shoes unless you have warn them in. You don’t want blisters on your first day! But if you do, I hope you have a first aid kit with plasters/band aids.

Packing for Europe: Toiletries and Medicines

• Toothpaste and Toothbrush
• Hair Brush and / or comb
• Cleanser and moisturiser
• Shampoo and Conditioner – or shampoo bar
• Feminine hygiene products
• Baby wipes – if you can’t shower, these will help keep you fresh
• Microfibre Travel Towel
• Medicines you require for the length of your trip.

Packing for Europe: Electronic Travel Essentials

• Mobile phone – one of these will not only allow you to keep in contact with peeps and take photos but you can download some very useful apps to help you travel. Apps for booking hostels or hotels or a table at a restaurant. Plus, a European eSim .
• Waterproof Smart Phone Bag .
• Dry Bag for wet clothes. I often use a plastic bag as my dry bag was stolen.
• European Travel Adaptor for your electronics.
• External Battery Charger or Power Bank – to charge your electronics while on the go.
• Camera/photography gear.
• Laptop Computer – if you are a digital nomad and working online as you travel Europe.

Europe Packing List: Other Useful Things to Pack for Europe

• Sunglasses – European countries are very sunny during the summer months so sunglasses are a must! Lucky, if your forget to take a pair you could buy a pair!
• Hat or cap – If you are spending a lot of time outdoors, don’t forget to bring a hat or cap.
• Sun Protection – Europe in summer is hot and sunny and if you are outside sightseeing most days ensure you have some sun protection. There is nothing worse being burnt to a cinder from sightseeing. You will be uncomfortable for a few days! Lucky if you forget to bring some, you can easily find sunscreen in Europe to buy.
• Reusable water bottle – one of these is a great way to save money on expensive bottled water. It will help you stay hydrated having access to water.
• Insect Repellent – yes, unfortunately, those pesky critters are even in Europe.
• First Aid kit
• Head Lamp or Torch – one of these is great for rummaging through your backpack at night and also for those times you need to go to the toilet in the middle of the night!
• Sink Plug or Stopper
• Anti-theft locks  – to keep your things safe in your accommodation and on your body
• Sealable Lunch Bags
• Laundry powder and travel clothes line
• Toilet Paper
• Antibacterial wipes and / or hand sanitizer
• Blanket – a small blanket will come in handy if you travelling through Europe in summer on overnight trains and buses. It can get a little cool sometimes overnight.
• A neck pillow will come in handy for those long train, bus and plane journeys.
• Fold up umbrella or raincoat for those unexpected showers.
• Travel Journal and pen – if you want to write about your European trip, which many of us do, add a travel journal to your summer Europe packing list or perhaps start a travel blog.

Packing List Essentials for European Travel: Paperwork and Financial Stuff

• Passport and visas. Ensure to have the appropriate visas in your passport. Read up on the European Shengen Visa here . • Cash, debit and credit cards. • Drivers license and international drivers license if planning on driving. • COVID vaccine card and/or negative COVID test (if required). * Travel Insurance. *  Have accommodation booking confirmations and entrance ticket confirmations printed out or in your electronic wallet.

READ MORE : What to Wear on a Plane

Do You Need to Bring all this?

No, you don’t need to bring everything on this packing list to Europe summer with you. There are plenty of stores in Europe where you can purchase things. I suggest you lay everything out on the floor and look at each item to ensure you will need it for your European travels. Packing light will help you travel better.

Now Get Packing for your summer in Europe

I have used this exact packing list for summer holiday European visits. If I discover I need anything else I just buy it along the way. Congrats on choosing Europe to travel through and I hope you have the best time! Knowing you have all the essentials in your Europe packing list I’m pretty sure you will! I’d love to hear from you if you have any other items you would include or have found useful while travelling Europe. Please leave comments below.

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Sharyn McCullum – Travel Writer / Blogger, Remote On-line Worker, sometime Digital Nomad and Travel, Live and Work Abroad Expert. Is a chocoholic, coffee connoisseur and lover of ’80s music. Been travelling all her life thanks to her dad who worked for an airline. Lived in London 4 years on a working holiday. Has holidayed in Hawaii over 15 times and currently calls Melbourne, Australia home. Is inspiring others to live work play travel around the world with this blog. Read more about Sharyn here.

Great round-up of packing items. I agree shoes are everything when going to Europe. So definitely do not wear brand new shoes to avoid blisters.

I love your list. I never thought about bringing a close line before. I also end up doing laundry in the sink so that would be very helpful!

I’m glad you love my list. A clothes line definitely comes in handy when travelling.

I enjoyed your suggestions for the ultimate packing list for Europe. It will be useful when planning my summer vacation.

Yes, it is quite extensive and has all the things that I usually take on my travels in Europe.

This is so helpful, thanks for sharing. I’m heading to Italy this summer so will definitely save this guide

This is a pretty extensive list. I like that if you forget something, you can most likely find a replaement in Europe. (Makes a great souvenir, too!)

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Why Europe’s Cooler Weather Countries Could Be Hot This Summer

Five destinations worth considering to get out of the heat.

With airfares increasing and lodging rapidly getting booked, now is the time to book your summer travels to Europe. But where in Europe? After record-breaking heat the past few summers in southern Europe, with one location reaching an astounding 119.8 degrees, many travelers are looking to destinations in northern Europe such as Scandinavia, Scotland and Iceland rather than the figurative and literal “hot spots” of Italy, Spain, and Greece.

“We’ve seen an over 20 percent increase in bookings on European trips above the 50th parallel [of latitude] in 2024,” said Scott Abbott, director of product at Wilderness Travel, in an email to AARP. “Destinations like Norway, Greenland, Scotland, Ireland and the Faroe Islands have been especially popular this year.” Given that Wilderness Travel’s primary clients are above the age of 50, “having confidence that you’ll be comfortable while exploring these places and be able to enjoy your vacation is a very understandable consideration.”

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Extreme weather and climate change probably will have a major impact on travel decisions now and into the future. “Forget chasing the sun. Future travelers will instead be seeking shade as destinations which are popular today will be rendered inhospitable by rising temperatures,” according to a Future Laboratory study sponsored by tour operator Intrepid Travel. There is already a “chasing the shade” trend with “a shift away from beach vacations to cooler destinations in summer months, with parts of Scandinavia and the Baltic … predicted to emerge as top options for those looking to avoid the high summer heat,” said Matt Berna, Intrepid Travel’s president of the Americas, in an emailed statement.

Travelers may even want to consider the Arctic Circle as a potential summer destination. “We are seeing substantial interest in northern destinations as a way for travelers to escape the heat and crowds that have become synonymous with Europe in the summer,” said Stefanie Schmudde, senior vice president, global product strategy for luxury tour operator Abercrombie & Kent, in an email to AARP. “Many [travelers] are shifting their focus away from traditional European destinations and heading to cooler places, like Norway and even the Arctic.”

The increased demand toward the north is reaching travel advisers as well. The Virtuoso travel network reports they “are seeing increased demand for cooler weather destinations like Scandinavia, where Virtuoso bookings for this summer have climbed by 77 percent compared to 2023.” 

“I have had a few clients shift [destination] due to temps getting unbearable, and I’ve been advising many to do so,” Jessica Parker, founder of the Trip Whisperer Agency, tells AARP. Kaleigh Kirkpatrick, travel adviser and founder of The Shameless Tourist, shares that she has clients “headed to Scandinavia and Scotland, noting that they were averse to the [southern European] temps.”

For those travelers potentially interested in chasing more moderate temperatures to northern Europe this summer and beyond, here are five cool destinations that may be worth exploring.

Akureyri, Iceland

Iceland has become a very popular destination in recent years, but many visitors just visit the easily accessible capital city of Reykjavík and nearby attractions like the famed Blue Lagoon hot springs. Icelandair offers free stopovers in Reykjavík to passengers on its transatlantic flights, an easy way to get a taste of this cool location. 

Travelers looking for more of an immersion into Icelandic history, culture, and nature may enjoy a road trip around the country, with Akureyri, a town on the northern coast of the island, as a featured destination. Intrepid Travel said its most booked tour in the summer of 2023 by American travelers was its Icelandic Discovery itinerary along this route. 

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Akureyri, a scenic town of around 19,000 inhabitants just south of the Arctic Circle, boasts a relaxed atmosphere far from the hustle and bustle of the capital. The walkable city features a history museum highlighting the region’s past and present, nearby hiking and waterfalls, whale-watching tours, and even a botanic garden. 

Potential visitors to Iceland should keep their eyes on the latest news regarding volcanic activity. While the recent eruptions to the southwest of Reykjavík do not affect Akureyri to the north, smoke from previous eruptions has impacted airport operations at times.

Bodø, Norway

If you’re looking to head north in Europe this summer, you can’t get too much farther than Bodø, Norway, inside the Arctic Circle. “Regarding cool places to visit in Norway this summer, Bodø is definitely a must,” says Innovation Norway’s PR manager Harald Hansen.

This colorful city of about 50,000 is a European Capital of Culture for 2024, with an extensive series of festivals, events, art exhibitions and concerts to entertain and educate visitors throughout the year. And you’ll have plenty of time each day to enjoy the city in the summer as the midnight sun is in full effect, with sunlight 24 hours a day in Bodø from approximately May 31 through July 12.

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Touring Bodø’s museums, design-forward boutiques and restaurants can fill a summer day in town, while outside the city limits boat tours and hiking opportunities abound, including excursions to clamber over Svartisen, one of Europe’s largest glaciers — definitely a cool summer activity.

Faroe Islands

This archipelago of 18 islands located about halfway between Scotland and Iceland boasts cool summer temperatures (with highs in the mid 50s), spectacular scenery of sea cliffs, waterfalls and lush farmlands, unique local cuisine, and its own unique Nordic culture and history. It’s a special destination for those willing to travel off the beaten track.

The Faroe Islands will become more accessible in 2024 with direct flights from New York via national airline Atlantic Airways this September to October. Regular connecting flights on SAS (Scandinavian Airlines) run through Copenhagen throughout the summer.

The Faroe Islands in summer feature multiple music and cultural festivals, great hikes, farm visits, tours of museums and art galleries. And you can saunter by the brightly painted buildings of the capital city of Tórshavn (Thor’s Harbor).

Göteborg, Sweden

“The phenomenon of ‘coolcation’ … is definitely a hot topic here,” says Visit Sweden media representative Victoria Sallmann, referring to the trend of vacationing in cooler destinations. “The diversity of cool water options [in Sweden], whether it’s the extensive coastlines, lakes, or archipelagos, is increasingly appealing to international visitors.”

A good place to experience such a coolcation is in and around the city of Göteborg, on the west coast of Sweden. According to Visit Sweden, American guest visits there increased more than 53 percent from 2022 to 2023, showing the city’s increasing popularity. 

Göteborg is a great place to visit in summer not just for the history and culture of this strategic port town dating to the 17th century, but for a trip to the nearby archipelago. These islands are evocative of the U.S. northeast, with hardy fisherfolk still earning a living on trawlers mixing with summer visitors who come to enjoy the cool ocean breezes, fresh fish fries and even a few sandy beaches. On the nearby island of Vrångö, Håkan Karlsten, owner of the Kajkanten boutique hotel, notes a trend change with guests “saying that they choose a Swedish/Nordic vacation instead of a Mediterranean one, both due to climate changes and costs.”

One notable benefit of visiting a northern destination in summer is sharing in the joy of the locals who have been cooped up all winter. Visit Göteborg in summer, and you’ll see the parks, outdoor cafes and patio bars full of smiling people leaning back and slowly rotating their faces to soak in the sweet — and not too hot — summer sunlight.

Orkney Islands, Scotland

Scotland’s famously inclement weather “isn’t a key motivator for visiting,” says public relations representative Jessica Barnes of VisitScotland. But the saying “it’s possible to experience four seasons in one day,” as Barnes notes, may become a selling point to visit the country during these summers of extreme heat.

Visitation is increasing to Scotland with “record demand … added from the U.S. over the last year,” including a 70 percent increase in spending compared with pre-pandemic numbers, Barnes says. And it will be easy to reach Scotland this summer, with flights from six U.S. cities: Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, New York, Orlando and Washington, D.C. JetBlue will be adding to the mix, launching a new Scotland route into Edinburgh from New York starting in May.

For a cool, off-the-beaten-track summer destination in Scotland, head to the country’s “Wild North.” “[We] definitely have seen a strong interest in places like the Orkney Islands,” says Wilderness Travel’s Abbott, regarding the island chain located off Scotland’s northern coast. With the islands’ great hikes and famed neolithic monuments, tours there “have been especially popular” recently, according to Wilderness Travel.

Bill Fink is an award-winning travel writer covering global adventures for BBC , Lonely Planet , Thrillist and many other outlets. Follow him @finktravels.

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Europe , Solo Female Travel , Travel Destinations , Travel Inspiration

Solo travel europe summer: everything you need to know.

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Visiting Europe alone is practically a rite of passage for travel aficionados. As for me, there’s still nothing quite as romantic as boarding a train with a backpack strapped to my shoulders.

Even Valentine’s Day doesn’t compare to an impeccably planned travel journey across the Atlantic Ocean (sorry).  

A solo trip to France or Italy or Scotland never fails to bring a smile to my face, even in the hot and crowded summer months, which I’m excited to discuss more here. 

However, first things first. Why travel alone at all? Isn’t it scary? For me, no. Not at all.

As a solo traveler, the universe’s possibilities feel endless, as you zip across countries to explore world-famous cities, like Paris and Berlin and Amsterdam, and admire at some of the prettiest nature known to humankind, like Plitvice National Park or the Scottish Highlands. 

Not to mention, I think backpacking in Europe is wonderful at any age. Which means adventure isn’t just limited to fresh-faced twenty year-olds who need a break from college.

On the contrary! You’ll encounter all sorts of people on the road, and your interactions with them will create lifelong memories that you will fondly revisit time and time again.

I’ve backpacked Europe in my twenties and thirties, and while different, both experiences are memorable. Truly. 

Table of Contents

Solo Travel Europe Summer: My Experiences

I’m going to stay something a littttttle controversial in the travel content creating space. Ready?

So, obviously, solo travel in Europe in summer is wonderful, in part, because everyone else is traveling, too.

Sure, if you seriously hate crowds, summer might not be ideal for you and booking in shoulder season might offer more of what you’re looking for, but I love chatting with other people who are also staying in full and lively hostels. I’m an extrovert at heart. 

In my experience, another major positive for traveling Europe in summer is that all attractions are open, and some of the more popular attractions even have extended hours. Longer hours makes it possible for you to see everything, which is important for anyone with limited time. 

On all my summer Europe trips, I’ve talked with locals and other travelers, and even have made some lifelong friends on the road. I wouldn’t trade these memories for anything. 

Is summer travel expensive? Sure. Is it hot? Also sure. However, I don’t mind the trade-offs.

5 Top Tips for Traveling Alone in Europe in Summer

Ugh, I have endless s uggestions for summer travel in Europe, but to be honest, these five tips are the most important out of the bunch.

Don’t forget them! Write them in a notebook or on your forehead (not really) to avoid hiccups on your amazing summer vacation in Europe. 

Accept Tourist Crowds and High Prices

As a teacher, I’m limited to travel in summer. And you know what? Summer is a great time to travel. People love summer travel for a reason. 

Seriously, if your heart is set on warm weather, then ignore all the naysayers in the travel content creator space that insist on avoiding summer at all costs and travel in the off season instead to save money. This is the trip of your dreams. Go whenever you want. Not to mention, students and teachers, you have to travel when you’re able to and that’s in summer. Don’t feel guilty about it.

However,  you need to mentally prepare yourself for higher costs and bigger crowds. Complaining that summer travel is more expensive won’t change the reality. Carefully budget what you need for your trip ahead of time. I find that booking early can help ease the costs.

Book Accommodation Far in Advance 

Booking accommodation on a whim is fun, at times, but in Europe in summer, you need to reserve well in advance to enjoy a stay at the best hostels and hotels. 

Do your research ahead of time, too. Don’t just settle on good reviews, but actually take the time to sit and read them. You’ll be able to tell after awhile if the writers are Primadonnas or have legitimate complaints. 

Furthermore, keep in mind that just because an accommodation has excellent reviews doesn’t always mean the place is excellent for  you.  One size fits all isn’t applicable to hotels and hostels.

For example, do you value your sleep and privacy? Then perhaps don’t book a dorm room in a highly acclaimed hostel. While mattress might be comfortable and the decor cool, the hostel doesn’t necessarily control whether or not you’ll have snorers as roommates. 

In short, book ahead for the best places and read reviews until your eyeballs water. 

Buy Travel Insurance 

Solo travel in Europe is pretty safe. Regardless, flight cancellations and sickness happen even to the best of us. You don’t want to lose thousands of dollars (I mean, who does?). 

I personally love World Nomads . I’ve used this company as a backpacker in Europe, and feel like their rates are reasonable. You can also “upgrade” to adventure travel insurance if you’re going to go paragliding in Slovenia or hike Mount Blanc. 

Just don’t skimp on your insurance. If you’re from the United States, you might immediately think that “free healthcare” in Europe applies to everyone, but, uh, you’d be quite mistaken. Get travel insurance. Trust me. 

Prepare for Heat (and Limited Air Conditioning) 

Ugh, now here is where I’ll shine most as a stereotypical American. I have a hard time  dealing with no air conditioning on a brutally hot summer day in Europe.

I’ll never,  ever forget visiting Berlin during a heat wave, with temperatures that soared over 100 F/38 C for days , and no relief was found anywhere. Frankly, as our climate continues to change, I think zero access to air conditioning is dangerous, particularly for vulnerable populations.

So, if you’re concerned with the heat, then I suggest visiting northern Europe in the summer. A hot day or two might pop up in the forecast, sure but you’re still less likely to have issues than if you travel to Sicily or southern Spain. 

In addition, do your best to find accommodation that has air conditioning available. I visited Italy in late June, and while it was still hot, just knowing that I had an air conditioned room at night made a tremendous difference. 

Lastly, sightsee early in the morning and later at night. Italy was great after sunset. 

Take Advantage of Discounts 

I know I already talked about the expense of summer travel, but if you’re a student, senior, or educator, then Europe has a lot of discounts available to lower the cost of your trip. 

For example, all people under the age of 27 qualify for a discount on the Eurail Pass, which is fantastic if your itinerary takes you to many different countries. You’ll save a lot on train costs while spending two weeks backpacking Europe, for instance, and using those discounts for a good meal or unique souvenir is totally the way to go! 

Cultural sites, such as museums, also offer discounted tickets. Check in advance. 

Solo Travel Europe Summer Packing List

Your packing list for summertime solo travel in Europe will depend on the destination and activities. For example, a hiking trip in Switzerland will look different than a beach vacation in Italy. 

However, you should always bring these essentials with you to make your solo trip a little bit better! You don’t want to hunt down any travel items when you could be sightseeing or eating instead, right? Right! 

Comfortable Walking Shoes

Don’t bring multiple pairs of high heels to Europe. Looking cute is great, but you need to take extra care of your feet on your travels. For exploring cities, bring a pair of walking scandals where your feet will feel great and stay cool at the same time. 

Of course, you’ll want to take additional care if you’re planning on longer hikes in Europe’s gorgeous natural wonders, such as the Swiss Alps. In that case, you will also need to pack a pair of well-worn hiking shoes that you should wear through the airport to save space in your luggage. 

EU-Compliant Plug

American and Canadian travelers ought to remember that Europe has different plugs. A lot of hostels have USB outlets, but this is still far from universal. You’ll want to pack compliant plugs. 

If you’re going to the United Kingdom or Ireland, then you need to pack a three prong plug adapter for your electronics, whereas you’ll want a two prong adapter for the rest of the European continent. 

Lonely Planet Europe Guidebook

Okay, so I adore travel blogs and other online travel content, but traditional guidebooks still have my soul. You’ll want to bring a good guidebook for your solo summer travels in Europe, especially if you’re traveling independently (aka not on a guided tour of some kind).

Lonely Planet writes my favorite guidebooks of all time. They have a huge Europe guidebook published that will help you plan the perfect summer escape!  

Lonely Planet also sells .pdf versions of their guidebooks, which is great! You don’t necessarily need to carry a huge book with you. 

Secure Day Pack

Okay, so I’m lucky enough to have never been pickpocketed in Europe (knock on wood). As long as your aware of your surroundings, most bags are perfectly find for sightseeing in cities all over Europe. 

However, I also understand if you want to have a bit of extra protection. No one wants to trek to the Embassy to replace their passport, right?

Invest in a Pacsafe backpack or a crossbody bag to eliminate any concerns about pickpockets. 

Solo Travel Suggestions for Europe in Summer

So … you’re probably thinking where exactly would I recommend traveling in Europe in summer? If you’ve noticed my love of air conditioning, then you already know that I prefer to travel north of the Alps in the summer months. 

Sure, travelers who love the heat and sun will do just fine in southern France or Italy, but I personally find excessive heat very uncomfortable. 

Austria (All of It)

Austria is gorgeous. Absolutely gorgeous. Lakes, mountains, baroque cities, Austria has it all. Furthermore, the country’s central location also makes it easy to visit on a longer trip in Europe. 

You will definitely want to travel solo in Vienna , the country’s capital city, but don’t forget to check out the smaller cities (such as Salzburg) and go hiking in the lush countryside. 

The Baltics 

Solo travel in the Baltics might not immediately spring to mind when you envision a summer vacation in Europe. However, I loved venturing through these small countries. The bus easily links the three major capitals, which are Vilnius, Riga, and Tallinn, but I also recommend getting off the beaten path and seeing the smaller towns if your itinerary allows it. 

Berlin, Germany

Gosh, how do I even begin to talk about beautiful Berlin?

Berlin has plenty to see and do. Not to mention, you’ll probably have decent weather in the summer. Solo travel in Berlin is especially fun, because the city’s thriving entrepreneur and hostel scenes are perfect for meeting like-minded people. Without a doubt, you won’t feel lonely on a solo adventure in Berlin. 

I personally loved all the guided history walks through this fascinating city, as well as taking a full day to immerse myself in Museum Island. There are plenty of easy day trips too such as taking an afternoon from Berlin to Potsdam .  

Copenhagen, Denmark

Do you want an easy and safe city to travel alone to? Solo travel in Copenhagen is a dream in many ways. Is it expensive? Perhaps, but I highly recommend this city to anyone who feels a little nervous about taking their first solo trip to Europe. 

The public transportation is safe and clean, and you won’t feel too worried about pickpockets unlike some other major European cities. Plus, in summer, the weather in Copenhagen is comfortable and little more forgiving. With Europe’s recent heatwaves, it’s important to consider your own comfort when sightseeing, and Copenhagen is perfect for the solo traveler who doesn’t want to sweat too much. 

Ireland (All of It)

Ireland is super popular with travelers from the United States. Many people can claim Irish ancestry, so a visit to Ireland offers personal transformations and reflections in addition to the normal perks that come with international travel.

Solo travel in Ireland is a true treat, too. You have the best of both worlds, after all, which are fun-loving cosmopolitan cities and spectacular green nature. Plus it’s very easy to make friends in Ireland. Go into any pub, listen to live music, and strike up a conversation with the people around you. 

And don’t skip a solo visit to Northern Ireland either. You’ll learn so much. 

The Netherlands (All of It)

Sure, when we think of the Netherlands, Amsterdam immediately springs to mind. And don’t get me wrong. I love solo travel in Amsterdam , and think it’s one of Europe’s most iconic cities. Seriously, Amsterdam is not to be missed.

However, you want to venture outside the capital to see even more of what this incredible country has to offer visitors. For example, I found the city of Hoorn absolutely charming and wish I had time to stay over night. 

Northern Italy

Oh my gosh, I love northern Italy so much. Italy is hot in the summer, sure, but truthfully, if summer is the only time you can visit Italy, then do it. 

I personally loved exploring Venice solo , as well as Verona and Padua. I also suggest checking out some smaller village and take a solo trip to the Cinque Terre . Stay overnight to avoid only experiencing these villages when all the day trippers are in town. It’s a whole new experience in the evenings and early mornings. 

Slovenia 

Slovenia is such a gem. I fell in love with Lake Bled and Triglav National Park. As a solo traveler, you can swim, eat Bled Cake, go paragliding, enjoy whitewater rafting, take leisurely hikes, and so much more! I would return in an absolute heartbeat. 

Please don’t skip over Slovenia, even if you’re fixated on Europe’s big cities. The nature here is simply unmatched. A true feast for your eyes. 

Scotland (All of It)

Scotland seriously has my heart. It was the first place in Europe that I traveled alone, and so it will always be very special to me. I adore Scotland with every fiber of my being. 

Solo travel in Scotland is magical and life-changing. The country’s lochs, ruined castles, epic mountains will transport you into another realm and make you feel as if you’re the main character in a fantasy novel. The Scottish Highlands are just so, so, so breathtaking and beautiful. I have no words for how much I love Scotland as a solo traveler, and I think you will fall in love with it too. 

Stockholm, Sweden

Like Copenhagen, Stockholm is another wonderful option for visiting Europe alone in the summer. Sweden is an outdoor lovers dream come true. Even in the capital city, you’re able to take boat rides to the gorgeous Archipelago and see some absolutely stunning islands.  

Stockholm has a lot to see and do for solo travelers , and as long as you’re mindful of prices, you’ll have an amazing time in the Swedish capital city. 

Switzerland (All of It)

Last but certainly not least, Switzerland is another amazing country to explore in the summer. Solo travel in Switzerland means seeing some of the most epic scenery that Europe has to offer. 

Another benefit is that Switzerland is super safe to travel alone . I’m serious. Whether I was in Zurich or a small village, like Wengen or Appenzell, I always felt perfectly at ease and relaxed on my own. 

I hope this guide inspired you to travel alone to Europe in the summer. Where do you want to visit in Europe? Are you nervous about planning your first solo trip? Feel free to check out some of my travel planning services if you need additional help. 

Rachel Elizabeth

At 22, I took my first overseas trip to Bermuda. Took a break to follow the "American Dream." Had my self-esteem broken. Embarked on my first solo trip to Scotland at 26. The travel bug dug its way under my skin. I now book multiple trips a year.

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The best alternative destinations for your European summer bucket list

By Olivia Morelli

Ah, summer in Europe . Slow mornings spent reading books and trying all the local pastries you can get your hands on; afternoons strolling along the river or exploring quiet neighbourhoods; evenings sipping rosé in sun-dappled squares. The only thing that can disrupt the pure bliss of summer in Europe is the threat of heaving streets, packed bars or overbooked restaurants – a reality that is, unfortunately, all too common in the continent’s most popular destinations.

While we would never suggest avoiding such hotspots altogether, there is a lot to be said for choosing a lesser-known holiday spot during the peak summer months. There's a rapidly growing trend for travelling to alternative destinations, too – #dupe or #dupes amassed 342,000 posts on TikTok as part of the surging interest. Thoughtful travellers are reacting to the world around them – watching the rising temperatures and over-subscribed tourism of popular destinations during the summer, saving those destinations for off-peak travel and, instead, selecting off-beat destinations to visit instead. Below, our editors have put forward their favourite alternative European destinations to try this summer.

Braga, Portugal

Portugal’s oldest city is also one of its most underrated. Despite being in the shadow of neighbouring Porto , Braga is a deserving destination in its own right. Pootle along narrow, cobbled lanes to unearth restaurants serving platters of traditional Portuguese dishes – Tabique , for example, specialises in slow-cooked meat and rich and thick sauces with potatoes for mopping, while just outside of the city, Dona Júlia is renowned for its sleek interiors and farm-to-table cooking. To soak up some of Braga’s history, visit Sé – Portugal’s oldest cathedral dating back to 1070 – or take a day trip to Bom Jesus do Monte, a picturesque staircase with decadent chapels and pretty fountains.

Where to stay: Braga doesn’t have an abundance of smart hotels, but book Vila Gale for a city-centre stay in a building dating back to 1508.

Bordeaux, France

This city may not be lesser-known, but when compared with the number of travellers that flock to Paris during the summer, we deem it worthy of a mention in this list. There's world-class wine, proximity to the sea and more than 350 historical buildings and monuments to visit. It’s largely pedestrianised, so travellers can shake off the blurry haze that settles in after a few wine tastings by exploring foot. Stop to admire the likes of the Grand Théâtre, the Gothic Tour Pey-Berland or the Basilica of Saint Severinus. Or head into the hinterlands to ogle at some of the country’s top châteaux and wineries dotted along the Gironde.

Where to stay: The Mondrian Bordeaux Les Carmes , just outside of the city, is the perfect place to get a taste of the city and the countryside. See our guide for more of the best hotels in Bordeaux .

Rotterdam, The Netherlands

Amsterdam’s cool little sister is finally getting the attention it deserves. Rotterdam , an old industrial port town, has slowly moulded itself into a hub of culture and design. Its climate-conscious outlook is also enticing travellers looking for a new summer city break. Rotterdam committed to cutting its CO2 and greenhouse gas emissions in half by 2029 and has steadily unveiled new green spaces, eco-friendly design, and pedestrianised streets over the last few years.

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Catherine Fairweather

Connor Sturges

Condé Nast Traveller

Where to stay: Hotel New York has a selection of sleek bedrooms overlooking the river Maas in the city’s Kop van Zuid neighbourhood.

Bergen, Norway

Hiding behind the shiny prestige of Oslo, Bergen is a nature-lover’s paradise. The city itself is known for its colourful wooden houses – a rainbow of rusty red, royal blue, sunny yellow and earthy green, each stacked prettily along the waterfront. But look beyond the houses for even more breathtaking beauty – even in the summer you might spot snow-capped mountains, which cast long shadows of glittering fjords and hiking trails, providing the perfect playground for a summer adventure escape.

Where to stay: Book into Bergen Børs Hotel for a stylish stay in a 19th-century building.

Mostar, Bosnia & Herzegovina

The Dalmatian coast is as beautiful as it is overloaded, so head further inland to Bosnia and Herzegovina instead (and return to Croatia’s shoreline in the shoulder season, when temperatures are cooler and crowds are fewer). Mostar is an alluring city break, with its fairytale-like streets, craggy hillsides and ancient stone bridges, complete with surrounding vineyards, waterfalls and mountain hikes nearby.

Where to stay: Stay at Muslibegović House , originally home to a wealthy family in the 18th century and now a glittering museum of Ottoman decadence

How To Plan A Trip To Europe For Your Family

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I am busy ironing out the details for our trip to Europe this summer, and it has inspired me to write a detailed post for you about how to plan a trip to Europe for your family! 

I know that when we share our  family adventures in Europe  and around the world, people are often inspired to plan their own trips. But everyone tells me that they have no idea where to start.

Today, I am here to help you plan a trip to Europe!

Planning A Trip To Europe

Taking on a family adventure to Europe should be exciting, not overwhelming. Imagine days filled with cultural experiences, historic landmarks, and unforgettable memories. 

However, the truth is that planning such a trip requires mindful consideration and organization, especially when you are traveling to Europe with kids.  

In this  family travel  guide, I will take you through the essential steps to ensure a smooth and enjoyable family vacation wherever you choose to visit in Europe.  And in reality, most of these tips can also be used for other destinations. But a trip to Europe is a good jumping-off point for big, international travel! 

How To Plan A Trip To Europe

I am going to walk you through my exact European travel planning process in order. It may be a little different than others, but it has worked really well for my family.

However, there is one major item that I want to discuss first, and that is  passports ! 

Many European countries require your passport to have 3 or 6 months of validity left on it. The general rule of thumb is that your passport expiration date must be at LEAST 6 months after your departure date. 

When writing this, in early 2024, passport turnaround times are at record speeds. Several months ago, people were waiting 12+ weeks, but now I see people getting them back as quickly as 2-3 weeks. Your mileage may vary, but now is the perfect time to renew if your passport expires this year or your children don’t have passports! 

Also, you want to make sure you have some form of  travel insurance . You can buy a plan from companies like  Travelex ,  Faye , or  Allianz .

Also, many premium credit cards, such as the  American Express Platinum Card  or  Chase Sapphire Cards , include trip protection when you use them. Read the terms in your account, but often, this can cover everything from delays to lost baggage. 

#1 Define Your Destination in Europe

Dreaming up trips to Europe is my specialty! I have to confess that I do it weekly, if not daily. Many of them never come to fruition, but when they do, I never have a single regret. Take the trip. Life is short!  

So, this is inevitably where the travel planning process starts for me. I am always keeping my eye out for great deals and running searches on Google Flights. Most never get booked, but I find something I can’t pass up once or twice a year. I reserve the flights, and that’s usually how our trips start.

The only way you can visit  Europe  is by booking flights there! Unless you take a transatlantic cruise. And don’t tempt me because I almost booked one the other day! 

Booking Flights To Europe

Every big trip that I plan starts with airfare. When it comes to travel, I like to get the best value possible. So, how do I do it?

Knowing Your Airport

First, know what main airlines (domestic and international) service your nearby airports and the routes. For example, Delta reigns supreme in Atlanta along with SkyTeam partners like Air France and KLM. Therefore, there are the most nonstops each day, heading to Paris and Amsterdam for me.  

Head to your airport’s website and look at the flight departures. Where are they heading to? What airlines are operating them? This will help you narrow things down if you are looking for nonstop options or minimal connections. This is key when planning a trip to Europe from USA destinations as particular cities service particular routes. 

Finding Flight Deals With Thrifty Traveler Premium

I am obsessed with  Thrifty Traveler Premium . I have had their annual subscriptions for a few years and have found so many deals! Because I subscribe to all cities, I get emails almost daily with incredible domestic and international flight deals.  

One of my favorite features is that it includes smaller airports, including where I live in  Dothan, Alabama . Most similar services don’t. It lists deals by departure city, allowing me to quickly scan and see if any of my nearby airports (Dothan, Panama City Beach, Tallahassee, Destin, Atlanta) are included.

They share so many great flight deals to Europe that you’ll have a hard time passing up. I am sitting on my hands so as not to book a trip to Scotland they just sent out.

Click here to learn more about Thrifty Traveler Premium ! 

Tips For Your Flight To Europe

When booking, be mindful of times. Most trips from the US to Europe will be overnight. This allows me to leave Atlanta around 8:50 pm and arrive in France at 12 pm the next day. Generally, I can get a decent night’s sleep, rally through that very first day, and start the next full day of my trip with minimal jet lag. 

The route home is often during the day, leaving Europe in the morning and arriving in the US mid-day, on the “same day” due to the time change. So, jet lag tends to be worse for us in that direction, as sleeping on the plane during the day is more challenging. It will usually make for an unavoidable long travel day.

I have one last flight tip before we move on to cities. Generally, a round-trip ticket will be cheaper than two one-way tickets when paying cash/credit (as opposed to points/miles). On your first short European trip, you should resist the urge to do a multi-city trip where you start and end in different places. 

Adding onto that, you will also want to compare prices on partner airlines. For example, using the Sky Team alliance that I mentioned above. You may find the exact flight (same plane and everything) sold from Delta for one price. If you check Air France, KLM, or Virgin Atlantic, you may find a cheaper flight as they codeshare these routes! 

When we went to  Greece  in November 2022, I almost booked flights for $1300 per person on Delta but ended up booking with Air France for $875 per person round trip. It’s the same exact plane! 

Choosing Which City Or Cities To Visit In Europe

So, you have some flight options and are ready to pull the trigger. But is that city right for you? Where should I go on my first trip to Europe?

When deciding on a destination city for your first trip to Europe, consider factors such as kid-friendly activities, safety, and accessibility.  

Destinations like  Paris , Rome,  Amsterdam , London, and Barcelona are known for their family-oriented attractions. They are great options for your first trip to Europe! 

For your first trip to Europe, I recommend focusing on one city. Our favorite thing to do is watch YouTube videos about that city. Sometimes I do this before I book my flights, sometimes after. But it is a great way to learn more about a city and get excited about your trip! 

I browse though the  TripAdvisor  page for that city. I scroll through photos, read user comments, and see the available tours and activities. When you have found the right trip, you know. You feel the urge to lock it in! 

Also, please consider the weather and what you want from that trip. It may be tempting to grab those rock-bottom flights to Paris. But do you want to be there when it’s only 20 degrees? Maybe you do. Or perhaps you were imagining warm lunches on sidewalk cafes.  

Europe is very crowded in summer, but there are some sweet spots. For the past two years, we have headed to Europe immediately after school gets out on the weekend of Memorial Day. Most European schools go into late June, so this is a little sweet spot. Also, Fall and Spring breaks can be excellent shoulder seasons. Winter travel to Europe can be magical with all of the Christmas markets. You have to be mindful of what type of trip you are planning. 

#2 Set a European Travel Budget

Ok, so maybe this should have been number one. But if I know I found some great flights, I can figure everything else out from there. If the total cost of the flights is too high, it’s a deal breaker. Airfare is where I like to save money. 

For many, determining a realistic budget is crucial for a successful first trip to Europe. Many people don’t know what to factor in transportation, accommodation, meals, and attractions. Researching your destination and creating a rough budget will help you make informed decisions throughout the planning process.

And it is possible to plan a  trip to Europe  on a budget! We find food and drink much cheaper than in the United States, and dining out is always a big part of our spending.

In my case, I don’t create an actual budget, but I know how much I think is reasonable to spend on that trip. Sometimes, that means splurging for high-end hotel accommodations in one area for the first part of the trip and using an Airbnb for the other half. This also allows us to explore two areas.  

For example, we are heading to Mexico for Spring break. While it’s not Europe, I took a similar mindset. The  Royalton Splash All-Inclusive Resort  we are staying at for the first few days of our week-long trip is over $700 per night. We want to do other things and explore the Riviera Maya. So, we are spending 3 nights there for $2200 and staying put, followed by 4 nights at a great  Airbnb in Playa del Carmen  for only $600 total to help offset the total cost.

#3 Choose the Right Accommodations 

So, let’s get back to Europe and step 3 in my European travel planning process! 

Here lies one topic that comes as a surprise to many first-time European travelers. In the United States and North America, double Queen hotel rooms that accommodate four are a dime a dozen and often have sleeper sofas, too. However, in Europe, most hotel rooms only sleep two guests. And these occupancy rules are very strict!  

Therefore, you must be open-minded when determining where you want to sleep in Europe.  

Before breaking down the types of accommodations, I want to reiterate my advice to stay in one city or two nearby cities for your first trip, especially if it’s a week or less. It’s easy to think you’ll spend 1-2 nights here and then move on to another town and so forth. You will end up with many travel days spent packing, unpacking, and waiting to check-in. It will feel rushed, and you’ll likely be exhausted and regret it. I do not recommend this for your first trip to  Europe with kids . Save that type of busy itinerary for future trips! 

However, splitting a stay between two areas in a large city or even between two nearby towns such as  Bruges  and  Brussels  is often a good idea. In fact, we almost always do this when our trip is 6+ days.

If you want to plan a trip to Europe for 2 weeks or more, by all means, travel to more places. We all know that airfare tends to be the most significant upfront expense. I just don’t want you to spread yourself too thin on your first short trip if you are planning a trip to Europe for 1 week or less! 

READ:  Airbnbs vs Hotels: Which one is better?

Family-Friendly Accommodations in Europe

So, back to finding a space that will actually fit your family. This is actually easier than it first seems!  

Looking back at our past international travels, we always book in one of three ways, split relatively evenly! We either book directly with hotels, rent an Airbnb, or use  Booking.com ,

Regardless of which site you use, you need to make sure you understand the city you are visiting. Walkability is the #1 most important factor for our family when traveling. So, we always ensure we are in the most ideal location.  

Hotels in Europe

As mentioned above, finding hotel rooms accommodating more than two people can be tricky and costly. We often end up booking 2 adjoining rooms when staying at hotels internationally.  

I always check my favorite hotel chains first, including  IHG  and Hyatt. If I find something perfect, I book directly on their website to use my loyalty benefits and use/earn points for my stay. However, this often doesn’t work out or is too costly. So, let’s move on! 

Airbnb and VRBO in Europe

As you know, I am an  Airbnb host  myself with several vacation rentals on  30A . We frequently stay at Airbnbs when traveling internationally, while less often here in the United States. Hotels are the better route for short domestic trips.

However, internationally, Airbnbs are a great option! Typically, they are less expensive than hotels and offer much more space to spread out. We appreciate this after a long day of travel.  Make sure to check both  Airbnb  and  VRBO !

It’s not unusual for me to find a great 3 bedroom, 2 bath option for $150-$300 per night total after all taxes and fees. Yesterday, while planning our summer trip, I booked 3 nights in Antibes, a small community in the south of France, for only $512 total. It’s in the heart of Old Town and walkable to everything, too! 

There always has to be a downside, though, right? I have noticed that international  Airbnbs  are not always up to the standards they are here. In the US, many are on par with hotels regarding cleanliness, amenities, and cozy beds. Internationally, they usually lack a bit. The expectations and standards are just different. So, read through all of the reviews before booking! 

Using Booking.com To Book Stays In Europe

But there is a third option, which I use frequently, and it’s a blend of the two above –  Booking.com ! 

I love using Booking.com when traveling in Europe. Their site has hotels, including smaller independent hotels, and many  short-term rental-style apartments . Booking.com is based in Amsterdam and is a popular and reputable way to book European accommodations. I have booked numerous stays through them, including that incredible  cave house in Santorini !  

For example, the  apartment we rented in Amsterdam  has the feel of an Airbnb and is similarly independently owned and managed by an individual. That owner simply uses the Booking.com platform.  

If a hotel isn’t part of a big chain where I value loyalty, I book through  Booking.com . They often have the best prices and usually very flexible cancellation policies.  

#4 Plan Your European Itinerary

Flights are booked. Accommodations are booked. Now what?

This is the fun part! You get to figure out what you will do while visiting  Europe . If you haven’t already done so, watch YouTube video travel guides to see what other people are doing in that city. They often share great tips and first-hand insight that will come in handy. We almost always have the kids watch, too. It’s fun when they have a say in the planning process. Abby is my sidekick Europe trip planner these days! 

You should craft a tentative itinerary of  things to do in Europe  that includes a mix of sightseeing and downtime. Be flexible, considering the needs and interests of every family member. Include iconic landmarks, museums, parks, and leisure activities suitable for all ages.

As soon as I start planning, I like to keep my ideas and plans organized in one place, usually a Google Doc dedicated to my Europe travel plans. I continually build on it, and I like accessing it on my phone as well as my computer. As we get closer, I organize it by days, adding links to activities I have prebooked and bulleted notes with other potential ideas.  

I only book things in advance that are 100% necessary, such as Anne Frank House tickets that sell out months in advance and  lift tickets for the Eiffel Tower . Sometimes museums sell out of specific entry time tickets, so take that into consideration. For example, when we  visited the Louvre in Paris , I booked in advance to get the first slot of the day. 

Don’t overschedule your trip or bite off more than you can chew. Europe is known for its quaint cafes and charming streets. Allow time to explore and let the day unfold naturally. You want a mix of downtime and activities. Be cognizant of the time you have. A 3-week Europe Itinerary and a 1-week Europe Itinerary are going to be very different. You can even consider getting a  CityPass !

Get Your Guide Tours and Activities in Europe 

One of my favorite ways to book activities in Europe, including tours, is through  Get Your Guide . Again, this is a top-rated European company and will be helpful for your Europe itinerary. We have used them for  canal cruises in Amsterdam , museum tickets in London,  Seine river cruises in Paris , and more! 

The  Get Your Guide  app is straightforward to use. Most activities have very flexible cancellation schedules. I use it for last-minute bookings fairly often. Last month, while in New Orleans, we had an open evening. I checked the Get Your Guide app to see what was available. I quickly found a  ghost tour , booked it, and we got started within an hour! 

One more perk is that the  Get Your Guide  website and app translate everything to English instead of individual websites where it may be in the local language. This allows me to make sure I have all of the important information and it’s outlined really well. You don’t need paper tickets either. They just scan your app when you arrive! 

#5 Book Transportation As Needed

Most of the hard work is done! We know where and when you’re going to  Europe , including where you will stay and what you will do. So, let’s tie up a few loose ends. 

Before your trip, familiarize yourself with local transportation options. Does this city have public transportation? Can you use Apple Pay, or do you need to buy a cash ticket? Are Ubers readily available? How will you get from the airport to your rental?

One of the most overwhelming moments when I arrive in a new city is when I am trying to exit the airport. I often can’t read the signage, and I am unsure where the Uber pickup is or if I need a taxi. In many places, there is a pain point for scams. You may encounter people trying to direct you to their taxi. So, research this in detail in advance and have a plan. 

Many rentals and hotels will offer you airport transportation for an extra fee that is generally very reasonable. Walking out of baggage claim and seeing a friendly face with your name on a sign is priceless!  

Using Apple Maps Transit Feature

This needs its own section because it is my favorite hack! I love to open Apple Maps and change the map to transit, as shown in my screenshots below. This allows you to see all of the public transportation routes! 

Furthermore, I often use the directions option (set to transit) before and during a trip. Apple Maps does such an excellent job with precise directions here. It usually will also tell you how to pay.  

The example below shows how to get from London Heathrow to the  Hotel Indigo Kensington , where Abby and I stayed in June. It gives us exact directions, including stops in between and time spent walking, and tells me that I can use Apple Pay! The public transportation in  London  is VERY EASY to use!

#6 Familiarize Yourself with Local Customs

Unless you booked a last-minute trip to Europe, you probably have some waiting to do now. In the days and weeks leading up to your trip, take some time to research the customs and etiquette of the countries you’ll be visiting. 

Teaching your family about local customs enhances the travel experience and fosters respect for different cultures. Research the traditional foods that the city is known for, too! You can even visit your local grocery store and look for the section for that country. Grab some snacks!

It’s also important to understand the tipping culture. Generally, you don’t need to tip as you do in the US. Most of the time, you leave the change or round up the bill. Some upscale establishments may have a service charge, usually 10% or well less. PS: In most European countries, you must ask for the bill when ready to pay! 

READ:  Finding a Local Photographer When Traveling

#7 Packing Smart For Your Trip To Europe

We made it to the end, and now it’s time for your trip! And I have one more bombshell to drop. 

Luggage: Carry On Bags 

Our family only uses  carryon bags  when traveling. I don’t know the last time we checked a bag except for when I had to gate-check due to space. I like having my stuff with me at all times. If you stay in vacation rental-style apartments, most have laundry. Sometimes, I do one load in the middle of the trip. 

Using carry-ons gives you so much more mobility! It allows you to utilize public transportation and navigate tight (sometimes cobblestone) streets. In the photo below, you can see Matt and the kids standing outside the  Hotel Indigo Brussels . This is what we use. Each person has a  Calpak carryon  and a personal item.  

Luggage: Your Personal Item 

An under-seater or weekender bag makes great personal items and stores a lot! Don’t miss this opportunity for space by simply carrying a big purse full of items you don’t need. 

My personal item is always my black backpack, where I keep my tech and our  travel wallet  with our passports/travel documents. Abby and I also use cross-body bags. These can easily be put into your personal item when you board, ensuring you don’t exceed the limit. They are a great way to keep your phone and cards/cash safe. The  Lululemon Belt bag  is a great option, or you can choose from many great  cross bodies on Amazon !  

For Matt’s personal item, we have this  Weekender Bag from Target . It opens up wide and is large. We often put all of the toiletries in there. That way, we only have to unpack one bag while going through security. 

We use a lightweight  Fjallraven backpack  as Jake’s personal item and then use it daily on the trip. 

Related List: Shop My Travel Favorites

How To Pack For Europe

Resist the urge to overpack! Remember that you are visiting a city. You can buy toiletries, food/drink, and most other things there!

Pack efficiently by considering the needs of each family member. Include essentials such as travel documents, medications, snacks, and entertainment for the kids. Check the weather forecast for your destination to pack appropriate clothing.

Make sure to check out my  Must Have Europe Travel Essentials  blog post for a list of what you need. This includes the necessary European plus and electrical converters. 

Use Packing Cubes

I highly recommend you use packing cubes. Each member of our family has a different color of  these packing cubes . I roll our clothes when I pack. Here is an  Instagram reel  showing how I do it! 

As I mentioned above, we often switch accommodations halfway through our stay. At this point, I combine the cubes of clean clothes into two or three of our carryons and put our laundry bag of dirty clothes into another suitcase.

Usually, by the end of the trip, half of our suitcases are filled with one large bag of dirty clothes! Grab these  travel laundry bags ! 

Ordering Currency For Your Trip To Europe

There is one final thing I like to do before our trip. I always order currency from Bank of America. I am not 100% sure how other banks do it, but we get a good exchange rate, and it’s delivered right to my door. Most places take credit cards, so make sure to use a card without foreign transaction fees like the  Capital One Venture X .  

You can always use an ATM at your destination, but it will incur a moderate fee. Best practices are generally used to avoid currency exchange places, especially at the airport! 

Now YOU Know How To Plan A Trip To Europe For Your Family 

We did it! We planned a trip to Europe! And it wasn’t that overwhelming, right? For me, the key is booking flights. Everything else falls into place for me after that. 

If you have a dream of traveling to  Europe  with your family, I want it to happen for you! 

By following these steps, you’ll be well-prepared to plan an unforgettable family trip to Europe. And I am confident you will be ready to plan the next one shortly after you get home.  

That’s how it goes! The first trip always feels monumental. However, once you cross the pond and realize how easy and enjoyable a trip to Europe can be, you’ll want to explore as many countries as possible! 

Once you get the first one under your belt, the next one is easy! And you can take a few more risks with your itinerary. 

So, let’s go!  

If you have any questions or additional tips that you’d like to share, feel free to leave a comment on this blog post! 

Follow Along On Our Europe Travels

I can’t wait to share our Summer 2024 Europe trip with you! I am still working out our travel itinerary for this European vacation, but we are heading to the French Riviera and Italian Riviera, including  Cinque Terre ! We are using train travel in Italy and France for most of it. It’s our first time in Italy, too! 

Also, if you want to follow along on our next trip to Europe, hop over to Instagram and give  @ourlittlelifestyleblog  a follow. All of our past trips to European destinations, including travel tips, are saved in my story highlights there, including our  4 Days in Paris ,  Athens travel guide , canal tours in  Bruges  and Amsterdam, and more! 

Click here to browse the European Travel section of my blog!

6 ways to travel smarter this summer using Google tools

Mar 27, 2024

Some of our new and existing tools from Search, Maps and Shopping will make summer travel a breeze.

• General summary

Get ready for summer travel with Google tools! Discover new places with AI-powered trip ideas in Search, find curated recommendations in Google Maps, and customize your travel lists. Create your perfect travel wardrobe with personalized style recommendations. Translate on-screen text instantly with Circle to Search or use Lens to translate the world around you. Explore like a local with multisearch in Lens, getting AI-powered insights about what you see.

• Bullet points
• Get trip ideas with generative AI in Search : Explore new places with AI-powered itineraries that include attractions, restaurants, flights, and hotels.
• Find lists of recommendations in Maps : Discover lists of places to go from publishers and locals, including trending, top, and hidden gem restaurant lists.
• Create even more customized lists in Maps : Organize your travel plans or share your favorite spots with new customization tools.
• Curate your travel wardrobe with Search : Get personalized style recommendations for apparel and accessories that complement your vacation wardrobe.
• Translate your screen with Circle to Search : Instantly translate text on your screen, including PDFs and streaming app lyrics.
• Shakespeare-ish

In summer's embrace, Google's tools inspire, With travel tips to fuel your wanderlust. AI's magic weaves trip plans, a desire, Unveiling hidden gems, a traveler's trust.

Maps reveal local secrets, lists galore, Curate your wardrobe, style at your command. Translate screens, explore without a bore, Lens guides your steps, a virtual helping hand.

AI overviews, knowledge at your side, Multisearch unveils the world's untold tales. Google's gifts, a traveler's joyful ride, Summer's adventures, where your spirit sails.

Summer's here, explore Google tools help plan your trip AI-powered guides

Discover new spots Maps lists show local gems Customize your plans

Style recommendations Curate your travel wardrobe Translate with ease

Lens translates text Multisearch gives AI insights Explore like a pro

Explore other styles:

Attention travelers: Summer is right around the corner — which means summer vacation is, too. So today we’re sharing six ways Google tools can help you prepare for and make the most of your next trip.

1. Get trip ideas with generative AI in Search

Exploring a new place is one of the best parts of traveling. But uncovering the best spots to visit (or stay, or eat) can be difficult or time-consuming. So just ahead of the summer travel season, we’re testing new, AI-powered capabilities in Search that can do some of the heavy lifting for you.

Now, if you’re opted into Search Generative Experience (SGE) and you ask something like “plan me a 3 day trip to Philadelphia that's all about history,” you’ll get a set of suggestions that includes attractions and restaurants, plus an overview of your flight and hotel options.

These itineraries will bring together a range of ideas from sites across the web, as well as information like reviews, photos and other Business Profile details that people have submitted to Google for more than 200 million places around the world.

With all of these links and resources organized in one place, it’s easy to dig deeper and learn more about your destination or compare different options. And when you’re ready, you can quickly export your trip ideas to Gmail, Docs or Maps to keep tweaking or share with your travel companions.

This capability is available in English in the U.S. — just enroll in Search Labs and enable SGE to try it out. As with everything in Search Labs, this functionality is experimental. So as you research these trip ideas, share your feedback with a quick thumbs up or down.

2. Find lists of recommendations in Maps

If you prefer to do a bit more hands-on research, we’re making it easier to discover lists of recommendations right in Google Maps — from sites you love and in-the-know locals.

Starting in select cities in the U.S. and Canada, if you search for a city in Maps, you’ll now see lists of recommendations for places to go from both publishers — like The Infatuation — as well as members of the Maps community. We’re also introducing trending, top and hidden gem restaurant lists created by Google Maps, based on what people are interested in or loving in that city.

3. Create even more customized lists in Maps

We’re also adding new tools to help you customize lists you create, so you can easily organize your travel plans or share your favorite spots.

When you create a list of places in Maps, you’ll be able to choose the order they appear. So you can organize them by top favorites or chronologically like an itinerary — tailoring your list based on whatever you need.

You’ll also be able to link to content from your social channels — like your review of the delicious meal you ate — for more context on why you saved that spot to your list.

Both of these updates are coming to Google Maps on Android and iOS globally later this month.

4. Curate your travel wardrobe with Search

Part of the fun of planning a trip is planning your outfits. Our new personalized style recommendations tool can help you easily discover more products you’ll like. When you search for apparel or accessories in the U.S. on mobile browsers or in the Google app — like “men’s polo shirts” — you’ll now see a section labeled “style recommendations.”

You can quickly rate options with a thumbs up or down (or a swipe left or right), and get instant results with items that complement your vacation wardrobe. Not quite ready to buy? We’ll remember your preferences for next time to help you narrow down your options much faster.

5. Translate your screen with Circle to Search, or what’s around you with Lens

If you’re traveling somewhere and don’t know the local language, deciphering even basic information can be challenging. Maybe you’ve found a great restaurant to check out, but you need to translate the PDF menu on their website. Or perhaps you’re getting acquainted with local musicians on your favorite streaming app and want to understand their lyrics. Google Translate can help, but copying the text or switching to another app can take you out of your flow.

Luckily, Circle to Search , available on select Android devices, will soon let you instantly translate whatever’s on your screen. Simply long press the home button or navigation bar and tap the translate icon.

Translations in Circle to Search will start rolling out in the coming weeks. Circle to Search is currently accessible on Pixel 7+ devices and the Samsung Galaxy S24 series , in all languages and locations where they’re available. And starting this week, we’re rolling out Circle to Search to more Android phones, including foldables, and tablets. 1

Meanwhile, if you need to translate something around you, like a street sign or poster, Google Lens can step in to help. Just tap the Lens icon in the Google app and select the translate filter. Lens will automatically detect the source language and blend the translated text over the original.

6. Use multisearch in Lens as your personal tour guide

Lens is also great for exploring the world around you, especially with the latest AI-powered upgrades to multisearch. Just point your camera, ask a question about what you see, and you’ll get helpful insights in an AI overview. Perhaps you’re at a museum and want to know more about a certain work of art. You can snap a photo, ask “why did the artist paint this?” and get a quick overview with the information you need, along with links to dive deeper. It’s almost like having a tour guide in your pocket.

Use Lens and multisearch to learn about paintings, like Monet’s Water Lilies at The Art Institute of Chicago.

AI overviews on multisearch results are available in English in the U.S. for everyone — no enrollment in Search Labs required. To get started, look for the Lens camera icon in the Google app for Android or iOS .

More Information

Circle to Search is available on Samsung Galaxy S24 series, Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, and is currently rolling out to more Android devices including Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 6a, Pixel 7a and Samsung Galaxy S23 series, S23 FE, Z Fold5, Z Flip5 and Tab S9 series. Circle to Search is coming soon to more Android devices including Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet.

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Empowering your team to build best-in-class mmms.

New ways we’re tackling spammy, low-quality content on Search

3 new Chrome features to get more helpful suggestions

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More From Forbes

2024 summer olympics: your guide to paris’ world party.

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France is ready for the world.

The countdown is on for Paris’ Summer Olympics , when the City of Light will transform into a living arena for the third time in history. Paris already ranks as one of the most-visited cities in the world — with nearly 36 million visitors in 2023 — but when the biggest international sporting event goes from July 26 to August 11, it’s anticipated to bring 16 million additional travelers.

Even if you missed the first round of single ticket sales last summer, don’t worry — you can still snag a spot for the Paris 2024 Games as more event tickets are steadily being released. Of course, being in the stands is only part of the fun. As you’ll read in the following guide, the competition for your hotel room dollars and free time is heating up, too.

The rings are the thing.

Where to Watch the Games

In one of many firsts, the opening ceremony on July 26 will unfold not in a stadium, but in the heart of the city itself as 160 boats filled with athletes parade along the Seine to the Trocadéro, converting the river into the main stage. A ticket scores you access to the lower quays, from the Pont d’Austerlitz to the Pont d’Iéna Bridge, but spectators can post up all along the banks for a glimpse of the show, which will be broadcast on 80 giant screens.

You can also join the celebration in one of nearly 30 complimentary fan zones around the Paris region. Two of the most centrally located areas live-streaming the events will be in the 19th arrondissement in La Villette park and the Trocadéro in the 16th arrondissement, by the Eiffel Tower.

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Over the course of 19 days, 329 events across 41 sports will take place in and around the capital, where landmarks like the Grand Palais will serve as a venue for fencing and taekwondo. The Games will also be held in areas surrounding the city, such as Seine-Saint-Denis, home to the Olympic and Paralympic Village. Additionally, the soccer tournament will take place in six stadiums across the country (Bordeaux, Nantes, Lyon, Saint-Etienne, Nice and Marseille), so staying central makes traveling from one event to the next easy.

For the ultimate viewing party, head to Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Cheval Blanc Paris near Pont Neuf, whose seventh-floor panoramic terrace, Le Tout-Paris , shows off sweeping shots of the Seine and twinkling Eiffel Tower. For a medal-worthy meal, book a coveted table at the experiential Plénitude .

Hôtel de Crillon is seeing gold.

Where to Stay

If you’re lucky enough to have scored a room at the sumptuous Five-Star Hôtel de Crillon, A Rosewood Hotel before it sold out for the Olympics, you’ll have prime seats to new sports like breakdancing — plus skateboarding, BMX freestyle and three-on-three basketball — in Place de la Concorde, which will be converted into an urban park with four arenas, a DJ, chill zones and dining options. Paris’ City Hall, Hôtel de Ville, will be the starting point for the legendary long-distance marathon, and one of the closest hotels to the action, Le Grand Mazarin , sits catty-corner to the square and still has a few open rooms at press time.

The same goes for Forbes Travel Guide Recommended Hotel Raphael Paris, a family-run charmer that’s only a javelin throw from the Champs-Élysées — it still has availability.

A two-minute stroll from Roland-Garros , home to the Summer Games’ tennis and boxing action, you’ll find Molitor , a hotel in the well-heeled 16th arrondissement that’s known for its centerpiece art deco pool. The pool and expansive Spa by Clarins will be welcome respites from the summer heat. Guests can watch events on screens scattered throughout the property, including the poolside bar. Another perk of staying at these high-end hotels: the concierge may have extra pull when it comes to securing restaurant reservations and tickets to popular shows.

What to See

When you need a break from cheering, Paris has plenty to win you over this summer. Musée d’Orsay ’s “Tonight with the Impressionists Paris 1874” (through August 11) is a unique experience that fully immerses you in a 19th-century art studio on Boulevard des Capucines with the help of a virtual reality headset.

Running through September 2, the Pinault Collection will be on display at the Bourse de Commerce , showcasing a curation of pieces from the 1980s that fall under the exhibition’s theme “ Le monde comme il va ” (The World As It Goes).

Given the amount of traffic and pedestrianization of parts of the city, the best way to get to these galleries (or anywhere else for that matter) is by foot or public transportation (the Métro is the most reliable option). While the central parts of Paris (Louvre, Le Marais, Saint-Germain-des-Prés and Latin Quarter) are sure to be bustling, if you want a break from the crowds, head over to a neighborhood as scenic but with slightly less foot traffic.

In Canal Saint-Martin, for example, you can cruise along the water and admire street art, or head over to Pigalle in the 9th arrondissement, which hides in the shadow of Montmartre’s Sacré-Cœur Basilica but is every bit as charming — especially now that it has cleaned up its once-seedy reputation as the red-light district. For a curated tour of the neighborhood’s history and museums, book a guided experience with an expert like Alexandra Weinress of The Seen , who can tailor the day to your taste.

You need a game plan for all of Paris’ great dining.

Where to Eat and Drink

In between events, dine in the center of the city near Les Halles at the iconic brasserie Au Pied de Cochon , which is open all day through 5 a.m.; one of the casual all-day-dining Bouillon restaurants in Pigalle or République; or at one of the buzzy Frenchie restaurants or wine bars on Rue du Nil in Sentier, near Les Halles.

The 2nd arrondissement, particularly around Sentier, is a central locale near Hôtel de Ville that’s undergoing a restaurant renaissance with newer additions like Israeli-inspired Tekés and sister spot Shana , a Mediterranean wine bar with shared plates great for casual group dining. Le Fumoir , across from the Louvre, is a favorite for apéro (pre-dinner drinks) and people-watching on the terrace, while Le Mary Celeste , in Le Marais, never fails with its whimsical small plates, craft cocktails and great selection of by-the-glass wines.

In Pigalle, you’ll now find the country’s only outpost of Soho House — a great place to post up and reset in between the action if you’re a member — plus panoramic rooftops like Hôtel Rochechouart’s 360-degree Bar sur le Toit provide one of the few spots in town where you’ll have picture-perfect Eiffel Tower views practically all to yourself.

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