Europe Travel Guide for Planning your Dream Vacation
Europe is a continent rich in history, art and culture. From the ancient ruins of Greece and Rome to the stunning Medieval cathedrals and Baroque palaces, Europe is the dream destination for culture lovers, history buffs and architecture aficionados. Whether you love museums, archeological sites, stunning castles or ornate churches, this Europe travel guide is for you.
I must say, there is something special about living in Europe. It’s a different life than I had in Canada. In many ways, life isn’t as hectic and feels more relaxed. There is so much history and art all around that it’s really not a surprise that so many people want to travel to Europe. Here are my tips for travelling in Europe from someone who moved here from North America.
Europe travel guide: The essentials
Europe is a large continent with many different cultures and landscapes to explore. Europe is divided into several regions, each with its own distinct culture and attractions. The people in these countries speak different languages and have their own histories and customs.
While you might have English spoken in larger touristy areas, don’t automatically expect everyone in Europe to speak English. It’s always a good idea to learn at least some basic words, like please and thank you, in the local language when visiting.
FYI: Europe’s most popular tourist destinations include Paris, Rome, London, Amsterdam, Barcelona and Prague. When planning a trip to Europe, it’s important to research and decide what areas and attractions you want to visit.
Geography
Europe is the world’s second smallest continent after Australia. Europe covers 10,180,000 sq km or 2% of Earth’s surface and 6.8% of its landmass. Europe borders the Arctic Ocean to the north, the Atlantic Ocean to the west, the Mediterranean Sea to the south and Asia to the east.
Europe has versatile landscapes, including mountains, plains and stunning coastlines. Some of Europe’s most impressive mountain ranges include the Alps, the Pyrenees and the Caucasus Mountains. The Ural Mountains form a natural boundary between Europe and Asia. Europe’s longest river is the Volga, which flows for 3,692 km through Russia. Europe also has many lakes, including Lake Baikal in Russia, the world’s largest freshwater lake.
Climate and the best time to visit
Europe has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, which makes it a great destination year-round. The weather varies depending on latitude, altitude and proximity to the ocean. Europe’s highest mountains experience an alpine climate, while the Mediterranean region has a warm, sunny climate.
Each season offers something different for everyone. If you want to experience Europe’s sunny beaches and vibrant nightlife, summer is the best time to visit. For stunning scenery and outdoor activities, spring and fall shoulder seasons are ideal. Winter is a great time to visit Europe’s Christmas markets and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Europe experiences summer from June to August, while winter runs from December to February. Central Europe has a temperate climate with hot summers and cold winters. Southern Europe is warmer, with mild winters and long, hot summers.
Getting around Europe
Europe has an excellent transportation infrastructure, making it easy to get around by train, bus, ferry or plane. If you’re planning on travelling a lot, consider purchasing a Eurail pass, which allows unlimited travel on trains throughout Europe.
If renting a car, remember that driving styles and conditions vary from country to country, so it’s important to research the road rules before you get behind the wheel. Except for the UK, Irish Republic, Malta and Cyprus, most Europeans drive on the right-hand side of the road.
While some countries will require an International Drivers Permit, others might require a translated copy of your license. Most cars in Europe are manual, so if you need an automatic, make sure you request it ahead of time to avoid disappointment.
Europe travel guide resources for planning your trip:
- Discover Europe by train: Find your tickets
- Discover Europe by car: Check availability
- Find train, bus and flight connections: Book now
Tips for travelling in Europe
There is a lot more to Europe travel than meets the eye. It can be confusing for beginners to understand the different country entry requirements, currencies, languages and rules. Here is a breakdown of what you need to know about travelling in Europe.
How many countries are in Europe?
While answering how many countries are in Europe should be an easy answer, it is, in fact, complicated. The answer depends on who you ask. According to the United Nations (UN), there are 44 countries. The European Union gives you a different number based on its members. The real answer is between 44 and 51 countries. How does that work?
Russia, Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Georgia and Turkey are considered transcontinental countries. This means they are partially located in both Europe and Asia. While Armenia and Cyprus are politically regarded as European countries, they are geographically located in West Asia. It’s also important to note that not all countries recognize Kosovo as an independent country, and it’s not listed as such by the UN.
There are several other destinations that many people count as independent countries, while they are in fact Dependencies, meaning they belong to another country. These include Greenland (Denmark), the Faroe Islands (Denmark), Svalbard (Norway), Gibraltar (UK), the Channel Islands (UK) and the Isle Of Man (UK). While you might also wonder about England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales, they all fall under the United Kingdom. Blame history for this confusing situation.
What is the European Union?
The European Union (EU) is a political and economic union of 27 member states. The EU was not always as big as it is today. This economic cooperation arrangement was formed in 1951, with Belgium, Germany, France, Italy, Luxembourg and the Netherlands as the original members. Over the years, more countries joined the union, and some are currently under consideration. The UK officially withdrew from the EU on January 31, 2020.
New ETIAS visa requirement: Starting in 2025, travellers from many non-EU countries, including the US and Canada, will need to apply for an ETIAS travel authorization before entering the Schengen Area. Check the official ETIAS website before your trip.
So what’s the big deal about the European Union? Well, the arrangement offers freedom of movement for its members. This means citizens of the European countries in the EU can travel, live and work freely in any EU state. For non-Europeans travelling to the Eurozone might be tricky, however, Europe travel within the EU is actually quite easy.
What is the Schengen Zone?
Schengen refers to the EU passport-free zone covering most European countries. Some countries may also require a visa, depending on your nationality and length of stay. It’s important to check the requirements for your destination country well in advance. If you are a citizen of any of these countries, you must obtain a Schengen visa to enter the Schengen Area.
Those with Schengen visas and non-EU members who are visa-exempt can stay in the EU for up to 90 days within 180 days. The 90/180 rule means that you can stay in the EU for three consecutive months and then have to leave for three months before you can return. Unlike other parts of the world, you can’t just travel to a non-EU country for a few days and come back. Europe will be implementing a new visa waiver by the end of 2023. Here is what you need to know about the upcoming ETIAS visa.
EUROPE TRAVEL HOT TIP: It’s up to you to make sure you keep track of how many days you have spent in the Schengen zone. Overstaying can result in heavy penalties and a potential ban from entering the EU for up to 10 years.
This is probably one of the most confusing aspects of Europe travel. Most people visiting Europe on vacation won’t likely overstay the three months. Some European countries offer a digital nomad visa/long-term visa that allows you to remain legally in that country. Having a temporary visa means you can travel within the EU for the duration of that visa.
Tips for planning your European vacation
Europe is an incredibly diverse continent with a rich history and culture. Whether you’re a culture, art or architecture lover, you’re sure to find plenty to keep you busy on your trip. Here are a few Europe travel tips to help you make the most of your trip:
- Europe is a popular destination, so book your accommodation and transportation in advance. The same goes for popular attractions and sites.
- Pack comfortable shoes, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking.
- Take advantage of free walking tours to learn about the history and culture of the cities you visit.
- Take advantage of free or discounted entry to many of Europe’s attractions, including museums.
- Use a rail pass to travel between destinations.
- Bring a raincoat or umbrella, as there can be sudden showers even in summer.
- Don’t forget to pack warm clothes when visiting Europe in winter.
- Eat local to experience local flavours and culinary offerings.
- Bring a refillable water bottle, as many European cities have fresh water fountains where you can fill up.
Europe for culture lovers
If you’re a fan of history, art or architecture, Europe is the perfect destination for you. European cities are also great for walking, so you can take your time exploring and soaking up the atmosphere. There are countless museums, galleries and historical sites to explore, and you’ll be amazed by the beautiful architecture everywhere you go. Here are a few to get started:
- The Louvre in Paris, France: This world-famous museum is home to some of the most iconic works of art, including the Mona Lisa.
- The Prado Museum in Madrid, Spain: This gallery houses an impressive collection of Spanish and European art, including works by Velázquez, Goya and Bosch.
- The Uffizi Gallery in Florence, Italy: This world-renowned gallery is home to a stunning collection of Renaissance art, including works by Botticelli, Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci.
- The Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, Netherlands: This museum houses a vast collection of Dutch art, including works by Rembrandt and Vermeer.
Europe for history buffs
If you’re interested in European history, you’ll be spoilt for choice with the number of historical sites and monuments to visit. From ancient ruins to medieval castles, there’s something to suit everyone’s interests. You can also learn about Europe’s tumultuous past by visiting museums and memorials dedicated to the World Wars and other significant events. Here are a few that should not be missed:
- The Parthenon in Athens, Greece: This ancient temple is one of Europe’s most iconic landmarks and is considered one of the finest examples of Greek architecture.
- The Colosseum in Rome, Italy: This ancient amphitheatre is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Europe and is a must-see for history buffs.
- The Alhambra in Granada, Spain: This Moorish palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful buildings in Europe.
- The Anne Frank House in Amsterdam, Netherlands: This moving museum is dedicated to the life of Anne Frank, a Jewish girl hiding from the Nazis during WWII.
Europe for foodies
If you love food, you must plan an ultimate European trip. Whether you’re enjoying a fancy meal in a restaurant or grabbing a quick bite from a street vendor, you’re sure to find plenty of delicious food. From French cuisine to Italian pasta and pizza, there’s something to suit every taste. And, of course, no trip to Europe would be complete without sampling some of the local beer and wine.
Must read: Ultimate pintxos food tour in San Sebastian
Europe for nature lovers
If you love being outdoors, Europe is the perfect destination for you. There are plenty of parks and gardens to explore, and you can also find some great hiking and biking trails. In winter, Europe’s ski resorts are a mecca for snow lovers from all over the world. The wellness industry is also in full swing, with many spas, saunas and wellness resorts spread throughout Europe.
Safety tips for travelling in Europe
Europe is generally a safe place to travel. Still, there are a few things to remember to help ensure your safety. Common scams and petty theft are more common in tourist-heavy sites and busy areas. Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in busy places like airports and train stations.
If you’re carrying valuables, it’s best to keep them hidden away and never leave any valuables in your car. If someone approaches you asking for money or trying to sell you something, it’s best to just walk away. Always carry a copy of your passport and travel insurance information with you in case of an emergency. Good travel insurance can protect you against theft, cancellations and illness or injury.
Final thoughts
Europe is an amazing continent for all kinds of adventures, exploration and discovery. Whether you’re after that old-world charm, laid-back lifestyle or simply want to soak up all that history and culture, you can do all of that in Europe. One of the most important things to remember is that Europe is made up of different countries with their own histories, traditions and cultures. Be open-minded, and you’ll find yourself on an extraordinary trip that will make you want to return over and over again. There is nothing wrong with that. Enjoy it.
