The Ultimate Europe Travel Guide: everything to know before planning your trip
To make your Europe travel planning seamless, we’re running through everything from the continent’s seasons, to what to see, to special events to attend. Read on to become a Europe travel aficionado.
Europe is home to 44 countries, more than 10,000 castles, over 500 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and millions of travel dreams. (We’re guessing on the last one, but it seems like a fair estimate.) Whether you’re a first-time visitor unsure of what to know before you go, or you’re planning your 10th trip across the pond, you’ll want to make each travel moment count on your Europe trip—that’s where we come in. To make your travel planning seamless, we’re sharing everything you need to know before jetting off on an epic European escape.
Why choose Europe travel?
Traveling to Europe is like stepping into a living museum that has a wing for everything you could possibly want to see. Mountain landscapes? Marvel at them on our Switzerland by Train: Lucerne to Zurich tour. Medieval castles? Explore them on our Edinburgh & the Castles of Scotland tour. Culinary traditions? Sink your teeth into them on our Food & Wine: Flavors of Tuscany & Umbria tour. Breathtaking beaches, ancient ruins, rich cultures, and lively festivals? Well, you get the idea. In short, Europe travel offers it all.
Going guided is one of the best ways to experience the magic of Europe. With the help of your expert Tour Director, you can soak up the history and sites without a care. On our Grand Tour of Europe: London to Rome tour, for example, you’ll visit seven countries without having to think about renting cars, checking train schedules, or purchasing flights.
When’s the best time to travel to Europe?
There’s no bad time to visit Europe, but depending on what you’re looking to experience, see, and do, there may be an ideal month to take your trip. Europe enjoys four distinct seasons, and—thanks to the continent’s geographic diversity—these vary depending on your specific Europe travel destination. That being said, the continent’s seasons do have some similarities across all destinations.
Spring (March-May)
Europe in the springtime? C’est magnifique! These months make up part of Europe’s transitional shoulder season. The continent is shaking off the winter chill but hasn’t fully hit the summer heat, and popular sites are starting to see more travelers but have not yet reached the high-season peaks.
Tour to consider: If you’re looking to see technicolor displays of blooming flowers, spring is your season to get out there. We recommend a trip like our Amsterdam & the Keukenhof Gardens tour. Spring’s the season to take it, and when it comes to vibrant floral scenery, the sights on this trip simply can’t be matched.
Summer (June-August)
Europe’s summers have an almost electric energy. It’s peak tourism season, so everywhere you go, you’ll feel the excitement of travel dreams coming true. It’s also the time to travel if you’re looking to warm up and enjoy elongated daylight—in many spots, the sun doesn’t set until close to 10 p.m.!
Tour to consider: Any European summer trip is a good one, but we can’t help but think our Italy & Greece tour is what Europe travel dreams are made of. After all, what says summer travel more than cones of gelato and Santorini sunset cruises? Or, if you prefer quieter summer travels, consider a trip like our Fjords of Norway: Bergen, Geirangerfjord & Alesund tour that’ll take you to less traveled (but equally breathtaking) spots.
Fall (September-November)
Europe’s fall months usher in crisp breezes, golden foliage, and cozy energy. Much like spring, this timeframe is also considered part of the the continent’s shoulder season, making it a wonderful travel time for those looking for Goldilocks temperatures and shorter lines to explore all those bucket list sites. If you picture yourself embarking on sightseeing tours in just a light jacket, look to fall.
Tour to consider: Want to trade your pumpkin spice latte in for a stein of German lager? Add a little fun to your fall travels by taking our Oktoberfest: Germany, Switzerland & Austria tour. It’ll take you to the lively heart of one Europe’s most famous celebrations while whisking you through majestic Alpine scenery.
Winter (December-February)
Do your travel dreams take you to winter wonderlands? Look no further than Europe during this magical time of year. Winter ushers in the continent’s offseason (meaning fewer travelers), but it’s also the continent’s festive season. With Christmas markets galore lighting up in nearly every country, holiday cheer is in the air. Warm up with a cup or cocoa or mulled wine and inhale the enchanting aromas of evergreen and roasted chestnuts—you won’t ever want to leave.
Tour to consider: Let’s embrace the spirit of the season together on our Christmas Markets of Budapest, Vienna & Prague tour! This trip showcases the splendor of three beloved European cities and lets you meander through their world-famous Christmas markets. If you’re dreaming of a European winter escape, this trip is made for you.
Ready to spend a week in Europe? You don’t want to miss these 10 trips in the off-season
Your season-by-season guides
Europe’s big, but so is our collection of seasonal guides. Peruse them all.
Top Destinations in Europe
Narrowing down our favorite destinations for European travel? Now, that’s tough. The truth is that all of our Europe tours visit crowd-pleasing spots. But, depending on your interests and preferred travel style, different destinations may fit your bill more than others.
For first-time travelers and fans of the classics:
London, Paris, and Rome
These cities are epic, so it’s no surprise that our London, Paris & Rome tour is a fan-favorite. This 11-day itinerary takes you to three of Europe’s most iconic cities, showing you all their most postcard-worthy sites. So, if Big Ben, the Eiffel Tower, and the Colosseum are calling your name, this tour is your ticket to see them all—plus, so much more.
For travelers looking to stray from the beaten path:
Croatia, Slovenia, the Balkans, or the Baltics
These countries get fewer visitors, but don’t let that fool you—they house magical sites in spades. Trips like our Croatia & Slovenia: The Old-World Adriatic tour and our Poland & the Baltics: Warsaw to Tallinn tour offer unique experiences and whisk you throughout these less-traveled gems.
For travelers dreaming of European island time:
Spain’s Balearic Islands and the Greek Isles
Europe is so much more than just the mainland, and the islands off the eastern coast of Spain or the countless isles surrounding Greece may be your perfect travel matches. Take our Spain’s Balearic Islands: Menorca & Mallorca tour or our The Greek Islands: Mykonos, Santorini & Crete to soak up the sun in these majestic island spots.
For travelers who find language barriers daunting:
England, Scotland, and Ireland
Looking to travel overseas but worried about navigating foreign languages? The U.K. and Ireland are excellent options. You’ll get to explore storied cities and scenery while hearing English everywhere you turn. Consider our Highlights of England, Scotland & Ireland tour, which takes travelers on a stunning journey through culture-and-castle-filled destinations.
For travelers who choose mountain escapes over beach vacations:
Germany, Switzerland, and Austria
We can’t promise the hills will come alive with the sound of music, but we’re certain the Alpine scenery in these countries will take your breath away. If your travel dreams are filled with snowcapped mountain scenery, our Jewels of Alpine Europe tour will bring them to life.
Psst! Ever heard of “tomato and potato Europe?”
These are by no means official terms, but they help form a fun (and helpful) mental framework for understanding Europe’s different regions.
Tomato Europe: If your European travel dreams are full of sunny days, beautiful beaches, and zesty flavors, look to tomato Europe. Think: Mediterranean travel hot spots like Spain, Portugal, Italy, Greece, and Croatia, where tomatoes grow—hence the name.
Potato Europe. If you’re called to Europe for the Alpine landscapes, medieval castles, and warming, potato-filled meals, look to potato Europe. Think: colder European destinations like the U.K., Scandinavia, Germany, Belgium, Switzerland, and Austria.
Europe destination Travel Guides
Decided on your dream Europe destination? Now, learn all about it!
Our top Europe travel tips
Packing essentials
Thoughtful packing goes a long way when preparing for Europe travel. While your specific packing list will vary depending on the timing of your trip and the specific country you’ll be visiting, (or countries if you prefer multi-country travel) here are some general things to consider. For more detailed recommendations, check out our ultimate packing list.
- Weather-appropriate clothing. This will look slightly different for each Europe destination and season. Think: breathable clothing for a summer trip to Greece, an extra warm coat for a winter trip to Iceland, or rain gear for a visit to the U.K. When in doubt, packing clothing pieces that you can easily layer will ensure you’re always comfortable regardless of changes in weather.
- Comfortable walking shoes. When traveling to Europe, having the right footwear is essential. Chances are that you’ll be on your feet for long periods of time and walking long distances over uneven terrain like cobblestones and hills. Plan ahead, break in shoes in advance, and come ready to take in all the sights without worry of blisters.
- Travel adapters. First-time travelers visiting Europe are often surprised that using electronic devices overseas requires additional planning. We recommend packing a universal adapter, as well as a voltage converter if you plan on using your own hairdryer or other device without a built-in converter.
Passport, visas, and entry requirements
Passport: North American travelers need a passport to travel to Europe. If you don’t already have one, we recommend starting the application process well before you trip. If you do already have one, check the expiration date. You should ensure you have at least six month’s validity past your trip’s return date. It’s also a good idea to have at least one fully blank page in your passport before traveling to Europe.
Visa and entry requirements: You may be aware that a new entry requirement to travel to Europe is projected to go into effect in 2025. Known as the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS), this is a travel authorization form—not to be confused with a visa. Once in effect, passport holders from the U.S. and Canada will need to apply online for an ETIAS prior to traveling to Europe. Luckily, we keep our Help Center updated with everything you need to know about this requirement.
Health and safety
Planning European travel? We recommend adding travel coverage. When heading to Europe (or anywhere, really) your health and safety should always be a consideration. That’s why we recommend all travelers purchase travel coverage. Your usual North American health insurance typically does not cover you in the event of medical emergencies that occur when traveling overseas. Thankfully, we make it simple to enroll in Trip Protection plans for any Europe travel you book with us.
Another benefit of traveling Europe with us is our 24/7 On-Tour Support Team. This team supports travelers and Tour Directors using a combination of extensive training, simulations, incident response planning, and decades of experience to help manage emergencies if they arise, ranging from personal health concerns or injuries to major world events. In short? If you travel with us, we have your back.
Cultural etiquette
Prior to traveling to Europe, we recommend familiarizing yourself with local customs to ensure you’re always being as respectful as possible. Here are some tips to help you lead with your most conscientious foot.
- Don’t assume everyone speaks English. While many Europeans speak English, it’s polite not to assume this is the case everywhere you go. When traveling with us, you can lean on your expert local Tour Director for help translating.
- Learn a few words or phrases in the local language. No one expects you to be fluent in the native language on your Europe trip, but a little effort can go a long way. Challenge yourself to learn a few simple terms like “hello,” “goodbye,” and “thank you.”
- Be conscious of your volume levels. When dining out or strolling around on your Europe trip, it’s polite to mind your speaking volume. If you notice you’re the loudest table at the restaurant, it may be respectful to tone it down slightly.
- Be mindful of how you dress. Certain sites you visit may require you to dress a certain way. For example, when visiting Vatican City or other churches, it’s best to keep your shoulders and knees covered. Many Europeans also tend to dress a bit more formally on a daily basis than is typical in North America. To blend in, you may wish to leave very casual clothing like athleisure, ripped jeans, and flip flops at home.
Explore our hub of travel resources for navigating cultural diversity and identity on tour.
Money and currency
Wondering what currency you’ll use on your trip? Well, if you’re bound for France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Greece, or a handful of other countries, you’ll use the euro. That being said, there are 30 different currencies used throughout the continent, so be sure to check which currencies you’ll need for your specific Europe travel destinations before you go. You can see this by scrolling to the FAQ section on each tour page on our website.
When navigating a different currency on tour, we recommend using credit cards. Most places you’ll visit with us on our Europe tours will accept major North American credit cards, but we recommend having a Visa or Mastercard as these are the most widely accepted.
Need to take out local currency for tips? The easiest way is with your debit card. You can use most debit/credit cards at ATMs on the international networks Cirrus and Plus, but make sure to check with your home bank about withdrawal fees before crossing the Atlantic.
Familiarize yourself with Europe’s tipping customs. Tipping works a bit differently across the pond than it does in North America. You may not be expected to tip as much or for as many services as you’re used to at home. Plus, you will often be expected to say you wish to add a tip before the restaurant charges your card. When the server comes to your table with the card reader, you can simply say, “Please add 10%” (or however much you wish to tip), and they’ll charge your card for the correct amount.
Have more questions on money matters? Read about currency exchange for a Europe trip.
Experiences and sites to add to your Europe travel wish list
Europe is chock-full of moments and spots that will win your heart. You could visit hundreds of times and still find new thrills on each trip, but here are a handful of our favorites to enjoy and explore.
Iconic sites to see
Heads up: These bucket list spots are likely to leave you speechless.
- The Tower of London (London, England). A fortress, palace, and infamous prison, the Tower of London has stood as a beacon of British history for nearly a thousand years. Don’t miss seeing the dazzling Crown Jewels and hearing the legends of the ghosts that roam its grounds.
- Big Ben (London, England). This beloved clock tower is an enduring symbol of London’s timeless charm. It chimes every hour, offering a quintessential London soundtrack to your visit.
- Stonehenge (Salisbury, England). This prehistoric monument, with its awe-inspiring Stone Circle, invites visitors to ponder ancient mysteries. Whether a burial site or a celestial calendar, its enigmatic origins captivate travelers from around the world.
- The Cliffs of Moher (County Clare, Ireland). Rising dramatically from the Atlantic Ocean, these rugged cliffs offer mind-boggling views and a sense of nature’s grandeur. On a clear day, you might even spot the Aran Islands on the horizon!
- The Eiffel Tower (Paris, France). Towering over the Parisian skyline, this spectacular statue is synonymous with the City of Lights. Take the lift to the top for unparalleled views, or enjoy gazing up at its sparkling lights while cruising along the Seine River at night.
- Notre Dame (Paris, France). A Gothic architectural marvel, Notre Dame’s spires and stained-glass windows have inspired generations since construction began on the church in 1163 A.D. Now having reopened after a devastating fire in 2019, Notre Dame remains a beacon of resilience and Parisian pride.
- Versaille (Paris, France). This opulent palace transports you to the age of French royalty with its gilded halls and sprawling gardens. On your visit, stroll through the Hall of Mirrors and imagine the grandeur of Louis XIV’s court.
- The Colosseum (Rome, Italy). Step back in time at this ancient amphitheater where gladiators once battled for glory. Its grand arches and historic legacy make it one of Rome’s most breathtaking landmarks.
- Trevi Fountain (Rome, Italy). Rome’s iconic fountain invites you to toss a coin over your shoulder to ensure your return to the Eternal City. Visit at night to see this Baroque masterpiece lit at night.
- Leaning Tower of Pisa (Pisa, Italy). This world-renowned, tilting bell tower defies gravity and inspires countless (often amusing) photos daily. Climb its spiraling stairs for panoramic views of Pisa and beyond.
- St. Peter’s Basicilia (Vatican City). The spiritual heart of the Catholic Church (and the largest church in the world), this magnificent basilica is an architectural and artistic wonder. Climb to its dome for breathtaking views of Vatican City and Rome.
- The Alps (Central Europe). Spanning eight countries, the Alps are a haven for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. From skiing in winter to hiking in summer, there are countless ways to enjoy these mountains. Their majestic peaks promise unforgettable vistas and enchanting Alpine cities that’ll steal your heart.
- Neuschwanstein Castle (Bavaria, Germany). Nestled among the Bavarian Alps, this fairy-tale castle inspired Disney’s “Sleeping Beauty.” Its romantic turrets and scenic surroundings make each visit magical.
- The Acropolis (Athens, Greece). Perched high above Athens, the Acropolis is a treasure trove of ancient Greek history and architecture. The Parthenon, its crowning glory, stands as a symbol of democracy and artistic achievement.
- La Sagrada Família (Barcelona, Spain). This surreal basilica, still under construction after over a century, is a testament to architect Antoni Gaudí’s genius. Its intricate facades and otherworldly interiors will leave you in awe.
Special events to experience
Festive fun is guaranteed.
- Oktoberfest (Munich, Germany). Raise your stein and toast to Bavarian culture at the world’s most famous beer festival. From lively oompah bands to hearty pretzels and lederhosen galore, it’s an unforgettable celebration of all things Bavarian—and fun for all!
- Christmas Markets (Many European cities). Step into cozy winter wonderlands in Europe’s enchanting Christmas markets, where twinkling lights, mulled wine, and handcrafted gifts create magical memories.
- La Tomatina (Buñol, Spain). Get ready to fling, squish, and stomp your way through the world’s biggest tomato fight! This annual festival is a messy, hilarious celebration of community and fun in sunny Spain. (Psst... this is just one of many unforgettable festivals to experience in Spain.)
- St Patrick’s Day (Dublin, Ireland). Join the shamrock-filled celebration in Dublin on one of our St. Patrick’s Day Tours, and watch the streets come alive with parades, music, and Irish pride. Don your green and enjoy a pint of Guinness while soaking in the joyous atmosphere.
- Venice Carnival (Venice, Italy). Don a mask to stroll through Venice’s canals and piazzas as the city comes alive with music, performances, and brilliant artistry during this historic festival.
- EuroPride (hosted annually in a different European city). Celebrate love, equality, and diversity with us at EuroPride, Europe’s premier LGBTQ+ event. Each host city brings its unique flavor to this vibrant festival full of parades, concerts, and community.
Dive deeper into our most immersive experiences
We design our tours to deliver life-changing travel moments. Explore to get your wanderlust going.
Travel Europe with us
We’ve handcrafted these tours to fulfill European travel dreams—just like the ones that brought you here. Which one makes your travel-loving heart skip a beat?
One-week Europe tours
Just one week in Europe will bring memories that last a lifetime. Here are a handful of our favorite weeklong tours.
- A Week in Italy: Venice, Florence & Rome: Feel the pulse of Italy’s vibrant culture.
- A Week in Spain: Barcelona, Madrid & Seville: Spend una semana exploring three vibrant Spanish cities.
- A Week in Portugal: Porto, Évora & Lisbon: Explore Portugal’s endless charm from top to bottom.
- A Week in Ireland: Dublin, Cork & Galway: Waste no time getting to the core of Irish culture.
- A Week in Switzerland, Germany & Austria: Experience the peaks of Central European culture across a trio of destinations.
- London & Paris: From trendy neighborhoods to treasured pastimes, live like a local in two of Europe’s great capitals.
- A Week in Greece: Athens, Mykonos & Santorini: Watch the setting sun from the hilltops of Greece’s most famous islands.
- A Week in Sicily: Palermo, Syracuse & Taormina: Discover a multicultural island in the middle of the Mediterranean.
- A Week in France: The Riviera, Provence & Paris: Follow in the footsteps of artists and authors seduced by la belle France.
- Iceland: Reykjavík & the Northern Lights: Watch the Land of Fire and Ice come to life in the winter light.
Two-week Europe tours
Two weeks spent exploring (and eating!) our way through Europe? Don’t mind if we do. Here are a few tours that’ll let you stay a while.
- Grand Tour of Europe: London to Rome: Six countries, 10 cities, a once-in-a-lifetime journey. Meet and mingle with Europe’s best-loved landmarks and unexpected new favorites.
- Grand Tour of Italy & Greece: Gondolas and gelato, glistening shores and gyros—uncover Italy and Greece’s timeless treasures.
- Grand Tour of Portugal & Spain: Porto to Barcelona: Gaudí masterpieces and flamenco meet golden beaches and fado on this escape to the Iberian Peninsula.
- Grand Tour of Ireland: Get to the heart of Irish culture on this sweeping survey of the Emerald Isle.
- Grand Tour of Italy: Immerse yourself in Italy’s history and beauty on a grand journey from Milan to Rome.
- Germany, Switzerland & Austria: Discover three Central European nations as you go from Germany’s wild forests to Austria’s urbane capital.
- Grand Tour of Spain: Enjoy culture, history, and cuisine, all with Spanish flavor.
- The Greek Islands: Mykonos, Santorini & Crete: Soak in the breezy lifestyle and diverse culture of three scene-stealing Greek isles.
- Landscapes of Scotland & Ireland: Drink in the sights of these twin Celtic nations, mile after majestic mile.
- Scandinavia: The Capitals & the Fjords: Lose yourself in the wonders of Europe’s northern reaches, one stop at a time.
Special Events Tours
Our European Special Events Tours whisk you into the middle of the action at some of the continent’s most thrilling celebrations. Which events fuel your wanderlust?
- New Year’s Eve Tours: Ring in the new year with unforgettable Europe travel memories like celebrating under the Eiffel Tower or watching fireworks dance across Rome’s skyline.
- Oktoberfest Tours: Get ready to toast, dance, and savor your way through Munich’s Oktoberfest—the ultimate celebration of beer, bites, and Bavarian culture!
- St. Patrick’s Day Tours: Experience the luck of the Irish firsthand on a St. Patrick’s Day trip to Dublin. From the lively parades to the cozy pubs filled with music and cheer, it’s the perfect place to raise a pint and celebrate in true Irish style.
- Christmas Market Tours: Drink mulled wine and marvel at sparkling displays in historic squares across Europe. Get in the holiday spirit when you visit these iconic Christmas markets on our trips.
Don’t let your European travel dreams wait another day—let’s start planning your journey now! Explore our Europe tours to find your perfect-fit itinerary.
Since moving abroad for college at the age of 18, Steph’s never doubted that travel is her passion in life. When she isn’t seeking opportunities to satisfy her wanderlust—and inspiring others to do the same—you’ll find her exploring Boston’s vegan food scene, shopping for eclectic pieces to add to her closet, or rewatching 90s romantic comedies.
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