Summer travel season is upon us! Which means several of you will be making the hop across the pond. Currently, I have zero plans to visit Europe this summer (although, Spain is slowly making it’s way onto my radar), but I will be living vicariously through you all!
Both of my little sisters will be spending their summer in Europe (in different places) — I couldn’t be more excited for them! I’ve been helping them book their travels, as well as numerous of their friends (thanks for following along ladies!).
I started to compile a list of items for them, but figured why not share it with you all! I’ve been lucky enough to travel Europe a few different ways — from trips with my families, luxury hotel stays to hopping on and off trains whilst staying in hostels.
Here are a few European travel tips & tricks I’ve picked up along the way:
1. Avoid restaurants in the city squares. Or near any major tour attractions.
2. Picnic, picnic, picnic. Grab a (euro) baguette, cheese, a bottle of wine (Paris has no outside liquor laws), and snag a grassy area.
3. Plan to use cash. Although credit cards are accepted, and ATMS are everywhere — I still run into the occasionally hiccup. Cash is also a better way to budget out your days.
4. Hostels. LOVE THEM. It’s a great place to meet fellow travelers and most hostels have free events for guests. If you are traveling with friends, book a private room!
5. Student Discounts. Bring your student ID, and ask away. You’ll be surprised how many entrance fees can be waived.
6. Free Walking Tour. Every city has one. Sign up and enjoy!
7. Trains. Personally, trains are my favorite way to see Europe. If you are planning to hop around, look into the Eurorail pass. Tickets don’t have to be booked in advance and reserved seats are cheaper!
8. Wifi. It’s free and it’s everywhere — just ask for the password!
9. Public bathrooms are hard to find. If you are at a museum or large attraction, be sure to make a pit stop at the “water closets.” You’ll most likely be paying a euro or two if you’re out and about.
10. Take a look at Eastern Europe. It’s sooo much cheaper than Western Europe, you’ll be amazed how far you’re money will go and there’s so much to see!
11. Keep your iPhone out of view. I’ve seen so many iPhones snagged while the person is taking a photo or texting.
12. Table Wine. It’s cheap and it’s delicious.
13. Bike Locks. If you are traveling by train, you’ll want to bike lock your suitcase or bag to the luggage racks. This will deter anyone from taking your bag at one of the many stops.
14. Comfortable Shoes. Most roads are cobblestone — leave the pumps at home.
15. Drinking from water fountains — totally normal and safe. If you find yourself in Switzerland, the water coming from the faucet will most likely be Evian. With that…
16. Bring a water bottle.
17. Aperitif Hour. It will soon be your best friend. Purchase a drink and all the appetizers are included. You’ll find this advertised throughout Italy.
18. Don’t try to see “all of Europe.” The worst thing I see people do is try to cram everything into one trip. Take time, relax, and enjoy the slower pace.
19. Travel plans can change and should change. After hearing about a cool city or attraction, I have changed my plans in a days notice. In fact, I encourage you to do so!
20. Big and small cities. Visit a mixture of both. You’ll get more a “local feel” in the smaller towns, and probably eat some incredible food.
21. Don’t overplan. Repeat, you do not have to have every minute of every day planned.
22. Ask people to take your picture. As awkward as it may seem, you’ll regret not having a picture of yourself in front of the Eiffel Tower.
23. Strikes. They are all too common in Europe. Keep an eye out for signs, and if you find yourself stranded, don’t panic. Enjoy the extra time in your current location.
24. Bike Tours. This is my absolute favorite way to see a new city. You’ll get the lay of the land, and it will give you some ideas of what parts of the city you’ll want to explore. Check out Fat Bike Tour.
25. Pub Crawls. If you are going to go out, I recommend pub crawls with your hostel or any other small group. You’ll be with a large crowd, and have people that will notice if someone or something “isn’t quite right.”
What tips & tricks do you have for Europe?
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As an American who lives in Rome, I have to say, this is a fabulous list!!!