From the Eiffel Tower at night to a gondola ride in Venice, Europe is a continent of one-of-a-kind experiences and cultures. But a trip to Europe can be a blessing or a curse if you’re unprepared, especially if you’re traveling for the first time. While you’ll never forget those once-in-a-lifetime moments, your experience can be ruined by rookie mistakes that are easy to avoid with some preparation ahead of time. To help you travel more comfortably and save money, read on for some tips that will make your trip a success.
As Europe reopens to tourists, travelers are trying to work out the kinks of getting from point A to point B with as few delays as possible. Thankfully, airlines seem to be able to cope with the extra demand for airfares. But with ongoing labor disputes and protests that have resulted in flight cancellations and disruptions at major transit hubs, it’s important to keep an eye on local news and enroll in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get the latest updates for the countries on your itinerary.
The main mode of transportation in most European cities is the subway or metro, which are safe, efficient and affordable. For those who prefer a car, Europe has some of the best highway systems in the world that connect all major destinations. Just be sure to pay attention to local traffic reports for your destination and bring plenty of gas, as it is often expensive in Europe.
Europeans dress very casually, but they still expect you to be well-groomed while out on the street or at a restaurant. Baggy sweatpants, flip-flops or other inappropriate clothing can attract the wrong kind of attention and make you stand out in a bad way. In addition, it’s important to pack comfortable shoes for sightseeing on cobblestone streets and walking up and down hills.
Many Europeans speak multiple languages, and they are incredibly generous with their hospitality. It’s not uncommon to see people open doors for strangers or offer their seats on public transportation. Be mindful of the language and cultural differences when interacting with the locals, and be respectful of their customs and traditions. For example, it’s polite to kiss cheeks in France, but don’t do it with strangers or friends you meet for the first time.
The history of Europe is rich and storied, and the cities are living, breathing reminders of its past. Be sure to explore the historic city streets and visit the museums, as you’ll be blown away by how much civilization has changed over the centuries. Then, enjoy the one-of-a-kind European festivals that celebrate all aspects of culture from classical music to film and comedy. From the Semana Santa Holy Week in Spain to Carnivale Venezia in Italy, to the cutting-edge Sonar festival in Barcelona, there are endless ways to immerse yourself in Europe’s unique culture.