12 Biggest Mistakes To Avoid Whilst Traveling in Europe

Planning your European adventure? Don’t let these common tourist mistakes to avoid in Europe derail your dream trip.

From currency confusion to cultural blunders, these pitfalls can cost you time, money, and memorable experiences.

The Most Common Tourist Mistakes to Avoid in Europe

Here are the 12 biggest mistakes that can turn your European vacation into a frustrating experience.

1. Currency & Money Blunders

• Don’t assume all of Europe uses the Euro – UK, Switzerland, Norway, and other countries have different currencies
• Avoid airport currency exchange – rates are terrible with high fees
• Use bank ATMs instead for better exchange rates
• Open an account with a bank offering zero international ATM fees before traveling
• At ATMs, decline “charge in your home currency” – always pay in local currency to avoid excessive fees
• Always carry some cash – many smaller shops, cafes, and markets are cash-only or prefer cash
• Keep coins for public toilets – many charge €0.50-1.00 for use

2. Assuming You Need a Car

• Don’t assume you need a car – European cities have efficient, comprehensive public transit systems (If you do want to rent a car, we personally use DiscoverCars to find the cheapest option)
• Public transport is often cheaper and faster than cars, especially in city centers with traffic and parking restrictions
• Always validate your public transport tickets – can result in hefty fines if caught without valid ticket
• Research multi-day transport passes for significant savings
• Consider high-speed trains for longer distances between cities and countries – they’re faster than flying when you factor in airport time (we buy our tickets through Omio online)

3. Planning Too Many Countries in One Trip

• Focus on one country or region rather than trying to see everything
• Spend more time in each city for deeper cultural immersion and less travel stress
• Quality over quantity leads to more fulfilling and memorable experiences
• Allow time for spontaneous discoveries and unplanned moments

4. Visiting Attractions at Peak Times

• Avoid peak hours – go early morning, late evening, or during sunrise/sunset for better experiences
• Travel during shoulder season (April-May or September-October) for lower costs and fewer crowds
• Avoid peak summer months – July and August are the most expensive and crowded
• Off-season travel offers more authentic interactions with locals

5. Showing Up Without Advance Booking

• Book popular attractions online in advance to avoid sold-out situations and long lines (also many attractions require timed entry tickets) – you can easily do this by booking tickets through Viator
• Reserve popular restaurants well ahead of time, especially in major cities

6. Paying Full Price for Everything

• Research free museum days – many offer free entry on specific days (like last Thursday of month)
• Always ask for student, senior, or group discounts – they’re widely available
• Buy city tourist cards for multiple attraction discounts and transport inclusion

7. Inadequate Trip Planning

• Book hotels directly which will often save you money (I also ask for discounts when I stay for a week or longer)
• Use credit card signup bonuses to accumulate points for flights and hotels
• Buy comprehensive travel insurance – your home health insurance won’t work abroad – we recommend SafetyWing
• Get eSIMs or international phone plans before departure – we prefer purchasing our Europe Sim online here.
• Research siesta and closing times – shops close mid-day in many countries
• Don’t expect Sunday shopping – most shops are closed on Sundays
• Research local meal times – dinner is often served later than you might expect

8. Not Being Prepared for Cobblestone Surfaces

• Invest in comfortable, broken-in walking shoes before you go
• Choose luggage with larger wheels or hybrid bags with both wheels and backpack straps
• If traveling with children, bring a jogger stroller with large wheels for cobblestone navigation

9. Sticking to Tourist Areas and Chain Restaurants

• Eat like locals – beer in Czechia, pasta in Italy – for authentic culture and lower costs
• Explore smaller towns and villages to discover hidden gems and meet locals
• Ask locals for restaurant recommendations instead of relying on tourist guides

10. Not Understanding Tipping Culture

• Research each country’s tipping customs – they vary dramatically across Europe
• Don’t over-tip in countries where it’s not expected or included
• Use cash for tips when possible, and round up appropriately

11. Falling for Common Tourist Scams

• Never accept anything “free” from strangers in tourist areas
• Be especially cautious in Paris and other major tourist cities
• Only carry essentials when sightseeing and use hotel safes for valuables
• Trust your instincts – if something feels off, walk away

12. Overpacking and Poor Luggage Choices

• Pack light with carry-on and packable day pack – many European buildings lack elevators
• Build a capsule wardrobe with versatile pieces that mix and match
• Buy toiletries and basics locally for authentic shopping and lighter bags
• Bring proper adapters – US plugs don’t work in Europe
• Invest in comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate layers
• Pack respectful clothing for religious sites – covering shoulders and knees is often required

Final Thoughts on Mistakes to Avoid Whilst Traveling in Europe

Avoiding these common tourist mistakes will transform your European adventure from stressful to spectacular.

Remember, a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring you experience Europe like a seasoned traveler, not a confused tourist.

Ready to dive deeper into European travel planning? Check out these essential guides:

• The 10 Least Welcoming European Countries
• The Most Beautiful Mediterranean Islands
• The 12 Best Eastern European Cities to Visit

Discover even more insider tips and comprehensive Europe travel guides on our blog to make your next European journey unforgettable.