Are you planning a trip to Europe and looking for travel tips? Then you are in the right place! After 5 years of living in and traveling throughout Europe, I have put together my top travel tips. These may not be what you expect because they are not so much logistical, rather they will help you get the most out of your trip by allowing you to travel like an experienced traveller.
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Travel Tip 1: Lean in to the off-season
I’m definitely not the first one to say this but there’s a reason it’s common advice. Not only are the prices lower but the crowds are less too. In Europe, April/May and September/October usually provide you with nice weather. In fact, with the heat these past few summers, I would argue that shoulder season weather has been nicer than high summer season….there I said it, shoulder season truly is the best!
Travel Tip 2: Get off the beaten path
Every large city and small village have a Main Street, and for good reason. The main sights and attractions can usually be found in this area and they are often what makes a city famous. I‘m a big fan of seeing what the Main Street or area of a town has to offer, but it‘s important not to stop there.
When you get off the Main Street and begin to explore the hidden side streets and alleys, that is when you discover the true feeling of a place. The local culture is found outside of the main tourist area. Often this is where you will find some of the most authentic restaurants, the best shops and a peek into how the local people live. A mix of the main sights and veering off the beaten path, can make for a truly unique travel experience.
Travel Tip 3: Google translate will be your best friend
If you’re anything like me, foreign languages are just that…so foreign. I have always struggled with learning a second language, which is why I am obsessed with google translate. The best part is, you don’t even need data to use it–just make sure to download the language you need when you do have service. Then, you can type in phrases or even take pictures for google to translate. The picture option is a GAME CHANGER for menus…yes, I mean you no longer have to order with the fear that you won’t want what the server brings you 😉 .
Travel Tip 4: Try the local food
It can be so easy and comforting to eat at familiar restaurants or order foods you know you love, but the real experience comes from trying something new. Also, the local foods tend to be the best foods within a country because they know how to make it best. (For example, don’t try Mexican food in Italy because you will be so disappointed BUT the authentic Italian food will be some of the best food you’ve ever tasted!)
One more thing about trying the local food…it’s always best at a local restaurant. These spots are often smaller, off the main tourist track, don’t offer English menus and accept only cash 🙂 Yes, this makes them way less convenient but always worth the experience!
Travel Tip 5: Buy a blow dryer or curling iron in Europe
Did you know the outlets are different in Europe than they are in the USA? Not only will you need an adapter to fit the outlet but you also want a converter to convert the energy levels. I won’t get into the science behind this but just know that most devices will be just fine with your adapter/converter BUT blow dryers, curling irons & straighteners are tricky. Just ask around and I’m sure you know someone with a story of burning out their favorite blow dryer while in Europe.
The easiest way to avoid this is simply purchase these items once you’re in Europe, this is especially worth it if you plan on traveling to Europe multiple times in your life. Most convenience stores will sell cheap models that you can pick up and that way you can leave your favorite curling iron at home, where it’s nice & safe.
Travel Tip 6: Don’t be afraid to visit a place you haven’t heard of before
Just because everyone and their brother has visited Positano doesn’t mean you should plan your next trip there! No shade to the Amalfi Coast (it is beautiful) BUT it is not the only beautiful place in Italy, let alone Europe. Not to mention, it is far more expensive than other gems in the Mediterranean. In my experience, visiting places that everyone you know hasn’t been to is the better choice. Is it a bit more unknown and scary? Sure, but most things worth doing are 🙂
Travel Tip 7: Rent a car
I know this can be an intimidating and sometimes more expensive option, but it is also the best way to really see a country. Depending on your destination, the need for a car can be more or less important. For big cities, it’s usually best to skip the car in favor of local public transport, but when you make a break from the city life and head into the country, a car will be such an asset.
When you have your own set of wheels you can stop whenever you want to take in beautiful views or enjoy lunch in a quaint village. Driving allows you to see the smaller corners of a country, without having to stay the night there.
A few notes about driving in Europe:
- Manual cars are very popular so if you want an automatic be sure to check the rental car contract and know that an automatic will be more expensive
- Streets are much narrower than in the States and parking spaces/parking garages are also tinier, so opting for a smaller car will make your driving experience easier
- International licenses are easy and inexpensive to obtain at AAA and can make it easier to deal with foreign rental car agencies and the authorities, if need be
Travel Tip 8: Slow down
Leave room in your schedule. Stop for that extra cup of coffee at a quaint cafe. Relax, people watch and take it all in. Traveling based on a strict itinerary may allow you to see numerous sights but it will prevent you from embracing the culture of the country you’re visiting.
Travel Tip 9: Stay in an apartment instead of a hotel
Renting an apartment through Airbnb or Booking can allow you live like the locals. Not only do you get to see what a local apartment building is like, but you get to be a part of the local community. If you want to better understand the culture and lifestyle of the locals, then this is the move for you. Also, you can cook your own meals at an apartment, which means you shop at the local markets and grocery stores (yet another great travel experience). As a result, it is often very cost effective to rent an apartment and cook some of your meals there.
If you‘re traveling on a budget or looking for a more local experience, then I highly recommend skipping the hotel and staying in an apartment.
Travel Tip 10: Walk as much as you can
I know travel can be exhausting but hear me out when I say that walking is worth the energy! First off, walking and being outside in the fresh air on the day you land can help fight off the jet lag. Walking around the city allows you to take in all the finer details, something that just can‘t be experienced with public transport or taxis. Not to mention, walking is free 🙂