15 Important Things to Know If You’re Going to Europe For the First Time
If you’re reading this, you’re either planning or getting ready to go on your first-ever trip to Europe. First off, congratulations! You’re in for a fantastic trip full of new sights and experiences. However, traveling to Europe for the first time can be intimidating. Considering so many different destinations, languages, and logistics can be overwhelming. Don’t worry! To help you navigate your first trip to Europe, we’ve compiled a list of 15 tips to help you travel like a pro. Keep reading for key tips for your Europe trip.
1. Learn Some New Languages
Don’t worry! You don’t need to be fluent in any European language. In most places, you’ll find that people speak enough English to get by, mainly if you stick to more touristy areas. However, you will be rewarded if you take the time to learn a few words in the native language of whatever country (or country) you’re visiting. When you can say simple phrases in the native language, such as “thank you” and “please,” you’ll win a lot of goodwill with the natives. You’ll likely find that people are more helpful and friendly when you start with “hello” in their native tongue.
2. You May Need Instructions for Your Shower
No, seriously…we mean it. Don’t underestimate how strange the showers might look to you. Often, they look self-explanatory until you’re in a towel, trying to negotiate to get the hot water to come on. If you have any doubts about how to use the shower or anything else in your hotel, such as the AC/heating unit, ask before you get too comfortable. It is always easier to ask about anything upfront, as opposed to waiting until you have a problem. Plus, finding someone at a strange time of day may be difficult.
3. Don’t Overplan Your Days
On your first trip to Europe, you may feel tempted to pack every second of every day with things to do. However, you’re going to want to control that impulse. While there are many beautiful things to see, you won’t be able to see everything. If you try to see everything during your limited time, you may wind up feeling rushed and tired, unable to enjoy anything. Make sure that when you plan your itinerary, you build time for relaxation and exploration. Trust us, you’ll thank yourself later!
4. Save on Train Tickets by Booking in Advance
Unlike in the United States, trains are a great way to get around Europe! Often, the schedules are better, and the prices are cheaper. Plus, you’ll appreciate the scenery as your train whips through the countryside or the city. While trains are already the more affordable way to travel around Europe, you can get even better ticket prices if you book in advance. It’s just one more reason you should plan your travel and accommodations in advance.
5. Don’t Eat at the Obvious Spots
You’ll see restaurants and bars nearby whenever you go to the most popular tourist spots. Sometimes, these restaurants will have the best views of nearby sites. You might feel tempted to sit down and have a drink or a meal. However, you’ll want to avoid these restaurants if you’re traveling on a budget. They are notorious for overcharging. So before you take a seat, remember you’ll be paying a premium for the view!
6. Pack Light & Don’t Always Expect an Elevator
Hotels run the gamut in Europe. You’ll find some in new or renovated buildings, but not necessarily in more traditional buildings. If your hotel has an elevator, it might be a small elevator that can’t accommodate more than a person or two (fewer with luggage). To have the most flexibility, try to pack light. You’ll be thanking yourself if you must go up the stairs with your bag or wrestle it down a cobblestone street.
7. Watch Out for Your Bags
While Europe has a low violent crime rate and is generally very safe for tourists, petty theft is very common. This is especially true at popular tourist destinations where there are large crowds. In these situations, thieves are able to grab phones, wallets, and valuables without the owners even noticing. When traveling around Europe, always keep your valuables in a secured place, such as a concealed pouch or locked pocket. If you carry a purse, go for a cross-body bag that you can keep an eye on easily. If you opt for a backpack, have it in front of you to ward off theft.
8. Pay in Local Currency, Not Dollars
Paying with a card is often the most convenient way to get around Europe. If you decide to use a credit card in Europe, check with your company beforehand so you know what kinds of fees to expect when using an ATM or making transactions. Additionally, when you use a card, you’ll be asked whether you want to pay in dollars or local currency. Always choose to pay in the local currency! There are often covert exchange rates or extra charges associated with paying in US dollars. But always carry local currency. Many places, especially in more remote areas, don’t take cards or US dollars.
9. Make Sure You Pack Your Adapters
Don’t forget to pack adapters so you can charge your electronic devices! Most of Europe uses adapter type C, which has two rounded pins. Note: if you’re going to stop in Great Britain, they have a different plug type. These days, most devices will accept a range of voltage. In the United States, the voltage is normally 120. However, in Europe, the voltage typically goes up to 240 volts. Ensure you look at your electronics and see if they accept voltage up to 240v. If not, you’ll need to get a converter to use as well, so your electronics don’t get fried by the high current.
10. Expect to Eat Later When in Europe
Europeans operate on a different schedule! In many countries, you’ll find that dinner time is well past bedtime for many Americans. In some countries, such as Spain and Italy, locals don’t eat until 10pm. If you want the full cultural experience, stay up later and eat when the locals do. You’ll get a much better idea of the local culture and get a great meal. Since the local kitchens won’t open until the locals are ready to eat, you’re likely to get a more authentic meal if you wait until the locals’ dinner time.
11. If You Can’t Disconnect, Consider a Local Sim Card
These days, it can be hard to go without data on your cell phone. Being able to send messages, load maps, and stay connected can be incredibly valuable. Many travelers choose to activate an international phone plan through their providers at home and pay as they go. However, these charges can add up quickly, depending on your provider. If you’re looking for a lower-cost option, consider buying a local SIM card and loading money on it as you go. If you’re trying to minimize data usage, download maps while you’re on wifi to avoid big data pulls.
12. Don’t Carry Your Passport Around Town
Many travelers make the mistake of carrying their passports everywhere with them. This puts you at high risk for losing your passport if you are the victim of theft or pickpocketing. Leaving your passport in a room or hotel safe during the day is best. You can carry a copy of your passport instead, with a second form of ID, such as a driver’s license. If you’re traveling with others, trade copies of your passports among yourselves and have an electronic version available so you can easily access it.
13. Comfortable Shoes for the Win
You might be tempted to dress up every day in Europe to get the most dreamy photos. While we won’t encourage you to do it for a dinner or evening out, you should prioritize comfort when packing, especially when it comes to shoes. Chances are you’ll be walking a lot during your time in Europe and encounter plenty of uneven or cobblestone paths. Comfortable walking shoes are the best way to keep your soles happy!
14. For Popular Attractions, Book Early
There are some attractions in Europe that everyone wants to see, and the box offices know it. Some attractions will only have certain available tickets in a day. So if you want to guarantee you’ll get in, booking in advance is the way to go! Bookings also give you the added benefit of skipping the box office lines, which can be of Disney proportions.
15. Check the Local Tipping Conventions
Although it is customary to tip between 10-20% in the United States, that is not the case in Europe. Tipping in Europe is not nearly as constant or inflated. Generally, a tip between 5-10% is plenty in Europe. We recommend that you do a quick search regarding the tipping customs in whatever country you’re visiting.
Exploring Europe for the First Time
Planning for your first European adventure can be overwhelming, but it is worth every second! Europe is full of incredible sights and experiences, and we are just waiting for you. So, remember these important tips and remember, most importantly, to enjoy your travels.
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