What You Wish Someone Had Told You Before Visiting Europe

These hard-won insights from real travelers, and travel bloggers will save you time, money, and a few embarrassing cultural missteps in Europe.

What You Wish You Knew Before Visiting Europe

Here are the insider tips from seasoned travelers, travel bloggers, and Reddit users who wished they’d known these from day one.

1. Money & Currency

• Not all European countries use the Euro – Only 20 of 51 European countries use Euro. Switzerland uses Francs, Czech Republic uses Korunas, Poland uses Zloty, and Hungary uses Forint.

• Get a credit card with no foreign transaction fees – Most cards charge 2-3% on every European transaction, which adds up fast.

• Carry small change for public toilets – Most public restrooms in Europe cost around €0.50-€1.00 and often only accept coins.

• ATMs give better exchange rates – Skip currency exchange businesses and use ATMs instead for the best rates.

• Choose your bank’s conversion rate at ATMs – When withdrawing cash always choose your bank’s rate (instead o the ATM’s rate) as it’s usually much better.

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2. Transportation & Getting Around

• Embrace public transport – European cities have amazing public transit systems. Buy day passes or 72-hour passes for unlimited access and significant savings.

• Book train tickets in advance – Prices are much cheaper when booked ahead, and you’ll avoid sold-out situations during peak season. We purchase tickets through Trainline (cheaper than going direct).

• Validate your tickets – Many countries require you to stamp/validate train and bus tickets before boarding to avoid hefty fines.

• Consider budget airlines between countries – Sometimes flying is cheaper than trains, but watch out for baggage fees and airport locations. We use Skyscanner for this.

• You probably don’t need a rental car – Unless you’re exploring rural areas or small villages, public transport will get you everywhere cheaper. If you do want to rent a car we like renting through DiscoverCars.

• Download the Trainline app – Keep mobile tickets on your phone and get notifications about delays or cancellations.

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3. Technology & Communication

• Download WhatsApp – Everyone in Europe uses it. Small businesses, hotels, and tour guides often prefer WhatsApp over traditional phone calls.

• Get the right power adapters – Europe uses different plugs. UK and Ireland have their own three-pronged design; everywhere else uses the standard European two-prong. This is a great one to purchase.

• Download Google Translate – The camera feature translates menus and signs in real-time. It’s a game-changer for non-English speaking countries.

• Consider a European SIM card or eSIM – Cheaper than international roaming plans if you’re staying longer than a few days – grab one on line here.

• Download offline maps – Save data by downloading Google Maps for offline use before you travel.

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4. Cultural Etiquette & Language

• Learn basic politeness phrases – “Hello,” “thank you,” and “excuse me” in the local language go a long way and show respect.

• Don’t expect everyone to speak English – While many Europeans speak excellent English (especially in cities), don’t assume or demand it.

• Research tipping expectations – Tipping varies dramatically across Europe. France and Iceland don’t expect tips, while Germany and Czech Republic do. Check local customs for each country.

• Respect the siesta – In Spain, Portugal, and parts of Italy, many shops close for 2-3 hours in the afternoon for lunch/nap time.

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5. Accommodation

• Book accommodation well in advance – Especially for summer travel (July-August). Popular destinations book out months ahead during peak season.

• Many buildings don’t have elevators – Be prepared to carry your luggage up several flights of stairs, especially in older European buildings.

• Hotel rooms are typically smaller – Consider apartments over hotels for more space, kitchen access, and often better value.

• Request shower-only rooms – Otherwise you might end up with a bathtub and handheld sprayer situation.

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6. Dining & Food

• Embrace late dining times – In Spain, dinner isn’t until 9-11 PM. In Italy, restaurants might not open until 7:30 PM. Plan accordingly.

• Don’t rush through meals – European dining is leisurely. A 2-3 hour dinner is perfectly normal.

• Water isn’t automatically served – You’ll need to order and pay for bottled water. Tap water is usually available if you ask specifically.

• Eat outside tourist districts – Venture into residential neighborhoods for authentic food at better prices. Stick to coffee and pastries if you want a view of the attractions.

• Lunch service has strict hours – Many restaurants stop serving lunch by 1:30-2:00 PM.

• Ask for the check – Waiters won’t bring it until you request it, unlike in North America.

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7. Sightseeing & Planning

• Book popular attractions in advance – Skip-the-line tickets are essential for major museums and landmarks, especially in summer. We purchase our tickets and tours from Get Your Guide.

• Get up early to beat crowds – Experience famous landmarks almost to yourself at sunrise, then relax with coffee while others fight the crowds.

• Travel in shoulder/off-season – Avoid July-August for fewer crowds and better prices. Many attractions are open year-round.

• Don’t try to see everything – Slow down and savor fewer places rather than rushing through a checklist. Quality over quantity.

• Check public holidays and festivals – Don’t arrive during Oktoberfest unprepared, or expect museums to be open on major holidays.

• Stay longer in fewer places – Moving every 2-3 days gets exhausting. Give yourself time to truly experience each destination.

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8. Packing & Practical Tips

• Choose manageable luggage – Bring a wheeled suitcase that you can still lift and carry when needed. You’ll be navigating cobblestone streets, stairs, and crowded transport.

• Pack a small daily backpack – Essential for carrying charging cables, portable battery, water, and daily essentials while sightseeing. In high pickpocket areas, choose an anti-theft backpack with hidden zippers.

• Don’t pack for “what if” scenarios – You can buy anything you forgot. European stores have everything you need.

• Pack for unpredictable weather – Bring layers and a travel umbrella. Weather can change quickly, especially in shoulder seasons.

• Bring comfortable walking shoes – You’ll walk much more than you’re used to. European cities are very pedestrian-friendly.

• Bring your own washcloth – Most European hotels don’t provide washcloths, so pack one if you use them.

• Pack all necessary medications – Bring everything you need for your entire trip. European pharmacy regulations are different, and you may not be able to find your specific medications.

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9. Safety & Scams

• Be aware of common scams – Ignore anyone approaching with clipboards, “found” rings, or wanting to “chat.” Just keep walking.

• Watch for pickpockets on public transport – Stay aware of your belongings, especially on crowded buses and metros.

• Don’t carry excessive cash – Cards are widely accepted, and you don’t want to lose a trip’s worth of money.

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10. Money-Saving Tips

• Take advantage of free walking tours – Available in most major cities and a great way to get oriented.

• Visit local markets – Perfect for picnic supplies and experiencing local culture.

• Use apps for cheap eats – Local food delivery apps often have better deals than tourist restaurant areas.

• Check for student/senior discounts – Many attractions offer reduced prices even for international students.

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Final Thoughts On Tips to Know Before Visiting Europe

Europe rewards those who embrace its diversity rather than fight against it.

These insider tips will help you navigate the continent like a seasoned traveler whilst avoiding all the common pitfalls.

Ready to dive deeper into your Europe adventure? Check out these essential guides:

• Crowded European Destinations To Avoid
• Europe Packing Mistakes
• Why Traveling to Europe in Summer is a Nightmare

Explore more European travel posts on our blog for everything you need to plan the perfect continental getaway.