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How to Make Your First Trip to Europe Simply Amazing

This post is about how to make your first European trip unforgettable.

Ah, the old continent: Europe. I dreamed of going to Europe my entire life. It is a land with a plethora of adventures to offer!

Have you also daydreamed about what it would be like to gaze at the Eiffel Tower, walk the cobblestone streets of Barcelona, or maybe sample fish and chips or meat pies in a London pub?

Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly vacation or a family in search of an unforgettable experience, planning your first trip to Europe can be daunting. What to do? What countries to visit? What to eat? Where to stay?

Before you plan your perfect departure date and take those first steps off the plane and onto the cobblestones of your destination city, it’s important to remember that no matter how exciting European cuisine, cultures, and customs may seem – this is still very much uncharted territory for newcomers.

To help ensure your travel dreams become a reality (and not a nightmare), here are 11 essential tips that will make your first trip to Europe unforgettable!

1 – Do Your Research 

Before you start practicing your “merci” and “grazie,” let me give you some advice: Do Your Research. Seriously, this is not the time to wing it. You don’t want to accidentally book a hostel on the sketchy side of town or commit a huge cultural faux pas (like wearing shorts to a church in Italy).

Plus, knowing exactly where you’re going and what you want to see is better than just wandering around aimlessly (although that can also be fun).

Some books and internet sites have a sample itinerary for several European cities, recommendations on hotel rooms or other accommodations such as Airbnb or Vrbo, or great places to eat.

So hit up some travel blogs, read guidebooks, and do some serious internet stalking before you hop on that plane. Your future self will thank you.

2 – SLOW DOWN and Take the Time to Plan

Attention all travelers! Listen up because I have some life-changing advice for you. Are you ready? Okay, here it is: slow down! Yes, I know, it might sound crazy. You’re going on vacation; you want to see and do it all! But trust me, there are better ways to experience a new place than rushing around like a crazed tourist.

When you visit Europe for the first time, know that you cannot possibly see it all in one trip.

Here are a few things to consider when visiting Europe for the first time:

• length of stay (one week, two weeks, a month)
• how many countries and major cities to visit
• a specific reason for visiting a particular country (family history, certain landmarks, or a fascination with a specific country)
• do you speak any of the languages

I have always been enamored with the United Kingdom. I love their accent, the Royals, the rich countryside, and the castles. England and specifically London, was my primary destination when I planned my epic European adventure. So everything spiraled around England.

So, if you have a particular country you have always loved, start there.

Decide which countries you want to visit and for how long. Begin planning your adventure by deciding if you will spend the entire trip in Northern Europe, Southern Europe, Eastern Europe, or Central Europe. Do you want to use train travel, or do you want to stay in a major city center and do a day trip or three?

After researching and deciding which countries, cities, or landmarks you want to see, get out paper and pencil and write all of this down. Then, as you review your list, sit down with your fellow travelers (family or friends) and sketch out your European itinerary.

3 – Consider Multi-City Flights – And Research Airline Options Carefully

Since it is very easy to get from one European country to the next by rail transport or flights, consider arriving and departing from different airports. You might be able to get more out of your vacation that way and save money and your sanity.

On our first trip to Europe, we flew from the USA to Barcelona, then after a few days, flew from Barcelone to Paris. We then spent four days in Paris and boarded the Eurostar for our final stop in London. Then we flew from London back to the USA.

When planning multi-city arrivals and departures, look at all airline options carefully. Below are important things to consider:

• length of flight
• direct flight or layovers
• overnight flight (you will want to compensate for possible jetlag)
• cheap flights
• budget airlines
• flight prices
• carry on baggage policies
• checked luggage costs

4 – Embrace the languages or Just a Few Basic Phrases for Your First Trip to Europe

First-time visitors are usually concerned with being unable to communicate because they don’t know the local language. Yep, I was right there with you. But, I found that English was widely spoken almost everywhere we traveled. As a result, we experienced a language barrier in a few places, but it was not that much of an issue.

However, before you depart, it is a good idea to learn a few phrases, such as thank you, hello, good morning, and goodbye, in the languages of the countries that you are visiting.

In addition, maybe learn how to say of few of your favorite menu items. For example, I love hot chocolate, so I learned how to say hot chocolate in French and Spanish. I used the free version of Duolingo to learn these basic words. For more information about Duolingo, click here.

Also, keep in mind terms are different in Europe. In England, any dessert is considered a pudding, and a sweetie is a candy. In Spain, Tapas are essentially appetizers, and the subway in Paris is called the Metro; in England, it is called the Underground or the Tube. Additionally, tap water is called still water, and it is delicious.

5 – Purchase a Power Converter and Adaptors

Have you ever wondered why Europe has one of the highest rates of converter sales in the world? Of course, you have! Europeans like to keep things interesting by having different plug-in systems for each country. Who doesn’t like a good game of “guess which plug will work in this outlet?”

Before your first trip to Europe, check your devices to see if they are dual voltage. If they are, you will only need the outlet adaptors for the countries you visit. CPAPS, iphones, and ipads, are usually dual voltage. We had no trouble charging our devices with this converter kit we purchased from Amazon.

6 – Ensure Your Credit Card Has Sufficient Funds and Check its Foreign Transaction Fee Policy

Before packing your bags and jetting off, here’s a friendly reminder: ensure your credit card has sufficient funds and check its foreign transaction fees policy. Trust me, discovering that your card is as dry as the Sahara Desert when you’re trying to pay for a tasty meal is not a situation you want to be in.

Also, most cities across Europe accept Apple Pay, which adds a layer of safety and convenience, not having to take your wallet out every time you purchase something.

7 – Purchase Travel Insurance and International Travel Health Insurance

Traveling can be a life-changing experience, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry. And let’s face it; accidents can happen, flights get canceled, and luggage gets lost. These things can happen to any traveler. That’s where travel and health insurance comes in handy. It can cover unexpected medical expenses and provide peace of mind knowing you’re protected no matter what happens.

8 – Be Prepared to Walk… A Lot

When traveling, it’s always important to remember those three little words: be prepared… to walk… a lot. Are you ready to walk? Like, really ready? Because if you’re not, you’re in for one heck of a workout. Also, if you plan to travel by mass transit, prepare to go up and down many steps.

Plus, walking and stair-stepping are great ways to explore and stumble upon hidden gems you wouldn’t have found otherwise. Just pack some comfy shoes and maybe even invest in some blister pads.

And who knows all that walking and stair climbing may give you an excuse to indulge in some extra gelato or croissants without feeling guilty. After all, that was how I justified my extra treats.

9 – Use Mass Transit

Why take a car when you can ride the Paris Metro or the London Underground? These public transportation systems allow you to see the city from a new perspective and save you from the headache of maneuvering through busy streets and finding parking.

Plus, with the help of the Citymapper app, navigating your way through Europe’s underground system has never been easier. This app is like having a personal tour guide, offering step-by-step directions and even alternative routes to avoid any potential delays.

You will also save both time and money by embracing mass transit. You can easily purchase a rail pass at the information counter or self-service machines in each city’s various train stations.

If you are staying in any one place for several days, purchase a travel pass enabling you to use mass transit for unlimited trips for a specific number of days. (In Paris, it is called a Metro Card; in London, you will want to purchase an Oyster card.)

Also, don’t fear the subway system in Europe. Using the Citymapper app makes it very easy to get places quickly.

One other note, you can take the above-ground rail system for day trips between European cities or countries.

10 – Use a Travel Planner or a Company That Offers Experiences, Tours, and Activities

Agh! What to do with the bit of time that is available. Do you feel stressed out before even leaving home because there is so much to do and see?

This is where travel planners and tour companies are helpful (queue the peaceful music).

My favorite travel planner is Undiscovered Sunsets. They can plan your entire vacation or just offer insights into the best hotel rooms and places to eat dinner. They can also help with things like foreign currency exchange and how to find a local bank.

Our travel advisor planned our first trip to Europe, and we had the best time without all the stress. She recommended an itinerary based on which countries we were visiting and what we wanted to see. She then gave us her specific recommendations for each city.  Check out their website here.

My favorite activity planner is Viator. Viator offers something for everyone with tours, excursions, and activities all around the globe. I have thoroughly enjoyed all the activities and outings that we have booked through Viator.

Use this link to check out their many Europe adventures.

11 – Book Your Accommodations and Activities in Advance

Life is too short to be spent in uncertainty, especially regarding your travel plans. Don’t be that person frantically scouring for a place to stay or something to do when you could have easily booked them weeks or months before.

Sure, spontaneity has its charm, but let’s be honest. There’s nothing charming about being stuck in a cramped room with questionable hygiene or settling for the last activity on a list you’re not even remotely interested in.

Popular attractions such as the Louvre, the London Eye, and the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona fill up fast, and you must plan ahead to get the best time slots. Here again, is another area where Viator can be helpful. Click this link to see available activities.

Be smart, be savvy, and book your accommodations and activities in advance. Plus, you will have more time to daydream about the adventures awaiting you instead of stressing about them.

Well, there you have it, if you use the above tips, you are almost guaranteed to have the time of your life. But there’s more keep reading for more important information that you are not going to want to miss.

Safety in Europe

Ah, safety in Europe. This post would only be complete if I included some travel safety tips.

Luckily, Europe is generally considered a safe destination with low crime rates, reliable public transportation, and emergency services at the ready. Of course, that doesn’t mean you’re immune to pickpockets in crowded areas or the occasional scam artist. But fear not, my fellow savvy traveler!

Here are some tips for staying safe while traveling in Europe for the first time:

• Make copies of your passport and ID and leave the originals in the hotel safe. (Be sure to ask the hotel concierge for other security measures your hotel offers.)
• Take only 1 or 2 credit cards and leave the remainder in the hotel safe.
• Use Apple Pay.
• Take only enough cash for the day and leave the remainder in the hotel safe.
• If it is late in the evening or after dark, travel amongst people or with a companion.
• Wear a travel wallet around your neck to avoid pickpockets.
• Please do not carry your cell phone in your rear pocket or leave it on a tabletop.
• Be wary of individuals wanting your cell phone to take a picture. Thieves use this ploy to either charge you money to get your phone back or use the opportunity to take your phone and run away. Always grip your phone securely and never leave it lying out in the open.

  Just use your common sense and be aware of your surroundings, and you will be fine. 

Sleep Well Before Departing

We all know the struggle of falling asleep before a big trip. Getting some quality shut-eye can seem impossible, whether the excitement of a new adventure or the anxiety of making it to the airport on time. But trust me, a well-rested traveler is a happy traveler.

So, here’s some witty advice: put down the caffeine, step away from the screen, and dim those lights. And if all else fails, count sheep – or, better yet, planes!

Plan for Rest Days 

For those embarking on their first trip to Europe, it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of exploring new cities and tasting exotic cuisines. But what about taking a break? Believe it or not, rest days are as important as sightseeing days (gasp!).

Don’t worry; I’m not suggesting you spend your whole trip lounging in a hotel room. Instead, plan a day to catch up on some much-needed sleep, read a book in a park, or indulge in spa treatments. Trust me, your feet, stomach, and schedule will thank you. Plus, you’ll be able to fully enjoy the rest of your trip without feeling burnt out (or cranky). So go ahead, and add a designated rest day to your itinerary.

Get a Good Suitcase or Backpack

You know that feeling when you’re lugging around a suitcase or backpack that just doesn’t cut it? It’s like carrying a boulder with a strap. Not to mention the embarrassment of trying to zip it shut while your underwear flies out for all to see. Trust me, invest in a good suitcase or backpack, and your travels will be so much smoother.

To avoid taking a large suitcase with a different outfit each day when traveling to Europe, consider wearing your clothes for more than one day. There are also excellent do-it-yourself laundry facilities all over Europe. Your hotel might even offer this service for you.

Plus, a smaller suitcase or roller backpack will make you look like a seasoned traveler instead of a lost tourist. And who doesn’t want to exude an air of confidence while searching for their gate or hostel?

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The Best Time of Year for Planning Trip to Europe

Let’s be honest; any time of year is a good time for traveling to Europe. But if you’re looking for the best time to go, you’ll want to consider a few factors.

Summer may be your best bet if you prefer warm weather and don’t mind the crowds. However, spring or fall might be the way to go if you’re on a budget or prefer a quieter trip. 

And let’s remember winter, when Europe becomes a magical winter wonderland full of holiday cheer.

So drum roll, please! This is the main point: The best time of year for planning a trip to Europe is whenever you can make it happen.

Some Extra Little Tidbits on Getting the Most Out of Europe the First Time:

• If Visiting the Eiffel Tower in Paris, be on the second floor around sundown. It is magnificent to see the city of lights lighting up. It also flashes lights every hour on the hour after dark until 11:00. Make sure to capture a video.
• If visiting the Tower of London, get there when they open and head straight for the crown jewels. You will avoid the rush and long lines.
• If you go to Barcelona, make sure to visit the Sagrada Familia. It is an incredible structure.

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Travel Europe – Final Thoughts

Traveling to Europe for the first time is a fascinating experience and one you’ll never forget! The planning that goes into it can seem overwhelming, but break it down into small steps, and you’ll be ready to get going in no time.

Feel free to try something new or immerse yourself in different cultures – that’s the beauty of travel! Once there, you may discover hidden gems – places and experiences you hadn’t planned.

Just remember to do your research, stay open-minded, and be mindful of each country’s customs and etiquette. That way, you can enjoy your trip worry-free.

And whatever happens on your journey, be sure to savor every moment – because your European adventure will stay with you forever. So get your passport, pack your bags, and plan your next trip – a whole continent is waiting!

However, if you just don’t want to travel abroad, check out this post on recommendations for traveling to Alaska and Canada.

Happy Traveling!

xooxoo