How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Europe – Dos and Don’ts
Want to plan a trip to Europe? Not sure what to expect? Lucky for you, I’ve got a detailed list of dos and don’ts for a trip to Europe.
You might think, ‘What makes you qualified to tell me what culture shocks I might experience?’ Well, that’s because I’ve lived it myself. Though I live in Europe now, I only moved here at 24.
I recently planned a month-long trip through Europe, during which I visited 5 countries and 14 cities. But between you and me, I still experience the ‘foreigner’ feeling on a daily basis, even though I’ve been here for over 3 years.
DOs:
1. Consider buying an Interrail/Eurail Pass
The Interrail Pass will be your best friend if you plan a trip to multiple countries in Europe by train. It’s a ticket that enables you to travel to 33 countries (with most major trainlines) as often as you want on travel days. A Eurail Pass is the same thing, but slightly cheaper and only available for European passport holders.
With this digital pass, you can choose specific routes or get a global pass with a specified number of travel days – on non-travel days, however, you don’t lose anything. Through the Rail Planner App, you can then book specific trains.
It’s definitely the cheapest option to get from one city to the next, especially if you are city hopping for a month or so.
Make sure to use night trains as well – these have the added bonus of saving you a night of accommodation. If you pay an extra 20€, you’ll be able to travel in a sleeper cabin instead of the uncomfortable seated ones.
Use these links to check out the websites for more information and to buy an Interrail or a Eurail pass.
2. Use public transportation
Unfortunately, public transportation within cities is not included in the Interrail Pass. It will, however, still be (by far) the cheapest option to get around.
Buying a pass for the whole period you are in a specific city – be it 24 hours, 48 hours, 3 days, or maybe even a week – is key. These tickets always end up being cheaper than single tickets.
Each city has a slightly different public transport system, but it’s all quite straightforward to navigate – just check out some blog on that city’s system beforehand, or ask locals. There are usually people who are willing to help you or some sort of info or help desk.
That being said, don’t solely rely on public transportation when you have two feet – Europe is made for walking!
3. Wear sturdy walking shoes
Speaking of walking, make sure you have a pair of comfortable shoes that are good for walking. Unless you have superpowers or want to come home with a sprained ankle, don’t rely on heels.
Not only will you spend a lot of time on your feet, you’ll also find that a lot of walkways in Europe (especially in the beautiful Old Towns) are made of cobblestone or something similar – not the most smooth, stable surface.
4. Be on alert for pickpocketers and scammers
‘But Europe is so safe! Nothing will happen!’ Yes, most European countries have much less crime than most. But tourist destinations during high season are a gold mine for pickpocketers and scammers. Now, I don’t mean to scare you; I just think you should be on alert.
Here are just a few things you can do to stay safe:
- Always be aware of your surroundings. Don’t walk around with headphones or earphones in both ears.
- If you are staying in a hostel, make sure to lock up your belongings. Most hostels provide lockers, but no locks, so bring your own.
- Get travel insurance.
- Travel with a bag that you can carry in front of you or put your hand on naturally. Belt bags are trendy right now, and they are so practical! If you insist on a backpack, Amazon has some great options for ‘anti-theft’ bags that zip up at the back.
- Be sceptical. If someone is trying to get you to bet money on a random game in the middle of the street (especially near tourist hotspots – *cough cough* the Eiffel Tower), it is probably a scam.
- Get a lanyard for your phone.
5. Remember to bring power adapters
Before you go on your trip, make sure to research which plug each of the countries you’re visiting has. Remember, there isn’t really a universal EU plug – the UK, Italy, and Switzerland all have different plugs from, say, Germany. The best option is a universal travel adapter, which you can buy on Amazon.
6. Buy tickets for attractions in advance
You don’t need to buy tickets for every single activity and attraction before your trip – in fact, I don’t do this, because I like to be a bit spontaneous and flexible.
But if there is something you are dying to do, book tickets as soon as you can. This applies especially to the really popular tourist attractions, like the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona and Neuschwanstein Castle, because the number of visitors is limited.
7. Have cash on hand at all times
There are some European countries that still rely mostly on cash. Many restaurants and local shops don’t accept cards, so make sure you’re always carrying some cash. Nowadays, you are unlikely to be faced with this problem in the more westernised countries.
The very general rule of thumb is: the further east you go, the more often you will need cash. According to studies, the countries in Europe that still rely the most are Albania, Bulgaria, Greece, and Croatia.
Germany is also relatively high on this list. If you’re visiting the Nordic countries, the Netherlands, the UK, France, or Belgium, you don’t need to worry about this too much.
8. Be prepared to pay for water and public restrooms
Something that completely shocks foreigners in Europe is that you generally pay for both water at restaurants and public restrooms. Make sure you always have 50c and 1€ coins in your bag in case you need to pee.
I also like to carry a water bottle with me that I can fill up. Luckily, in most countries, you will be able to drink the tap water, and some cities even have water fountains all over.
9. Book your seat on trains
One of the worst experiences is having to sit on the floor of a train that is completely packed. Luckily, a seat reservation usually isn’t all that expensive – around 3€. Trust me, if your train is full, it will be the best 3€ you will have ever spent!
10. Eat local food
My favourite part of traveling might just be trying out new food. Don’t be afraid to try something new, even if it sounds strange or unfamiliar.
Authentic local restaurants are almost never situated around big tourist attractions – go the extra mile (literally) to find the good places. Ask locals and check online. If you are able to find a food market, you’ll usually find some great food there.
DON’Ts:
1. Don’t overpack
This is the #1 mistake foreigners make when traveling to Europe. But, take my word for it, lugging around a huge suitcase – especially if you’re taking a lot of trains – is extremely uncomfortable.
There are some cities in which it is especially inconvenient – immediately Venice comes to mind. With its narrow, cobblestoned alleys and a bridge (with stairs) around every corner, it is a huge struggle.
2. Don’t spend all your time traveling
Instead of moving around every second day, try to spend at least 3 days in each city to truly experience it. As you plan your trip to Europe, read some blogs – they usually indicate the ideal time to travel to that city.
3. Don’t let the ATM do the currency conversion when you withdraw cash
Always, always, ALWAYS let your bank convert your money. When you withdraw cash in a foreign currency, the ATM will ask you if the machine should do the conversion – say no! If your bank does it, you are guaranteed to get the best rate. Also, try to avoid the Euronet ATMs, because these always charge extremely high fees.
4. Don’t take taxis/cabs
Most European cities have a very well developed, affordable public transportation system. I know it seems daunting if it isn’t something you’re used to, but it is definitely the best transport option. So why pay 30€ for a taxi if you can get there by metro or tram for 1 or 2€?
5. Don’t plan a tightly packed schedule
Don’t plan your trip to Europe badly by scheduling activities or transport too close together, especially in a place you’re unfamiliar with. In general, I only plan one or two solid activities per day (one in the morning, one in the afternoon/evening).
When it comes to transport, I always anticipate that trains will be up to an hour late. But don’t worry, if your train is delayed, you will be able to rebook or take the next train.
Just don’t book an activity soon after you’re set to arrive in a city – rather choose something you can be flexible with. After all, you’re not going on vacation to get stressed.
6. Don’t forget to alert your bank
Before you leave your home country, make sure to notify your bank where and when you’ll be traveling. Otherwise, you might end up in a foreign country with a blocked bank card.
7. Don’t only stay in big cities
Some of my favourite trips have been to the countryside. Unfortunately, it is usually more difficult to plan transport to these areas. I would highly recommend doing day trips from big cities or even renting a car for a few days and exploring a less tourist-packed area.
8. Don’t forget about rest days and siestas
Much of the continent closes down on Sunday, as it is the day of rest. I had to learn this the hard way during that first week I was living in Austria and had no food in my fridge – so consider this your warning – do your shopping on Friday or Saturday.
In Spain, most restaurants and shops take siesta (a long lunch) between 2pm and 5pm, though this varies from shop to shop.
9. Don’t book accommodation in a bad neighbourhood
When you plan your accommodation for your trip to Europe, make sure to check which areas are the best and worst to stay in. I have had a few experiences of staying in less favourable districts, and it is NOT pleasant. You don’t have to stay in the fanciest area, but just try to avoid places like red light districts.
10. Don’t only travel around Western Europe
When people think about traveling to Europe, they think of France, Spain, Germany, and Italy. But don’t forget that Eastern Europe has just as much (if not more) to offer.
Because there is less tourism, you’re more likely to get a more authentic feel for the country’s culture. The nature is incredibly beautiful and so much is untouched. To top it all off, it is SO much more affordable than Western Europe.
I know how daunting it can be to plan a trip to Europe, so I truly hope that my little list can help you make your trip magical. Just remember, the most important thing is to enjoy it and make unforgettable memories!
