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• Ubezpieczenie turystyczne TU Europa – Travel World

Zakres ubezpieczenia turystycznego TU EUROPA, co obejmuje polisa?

Rozszerzenia ochrony ubezpieczeniowej, wyłączenia odpowiedzialności, kiedy rozpoczyna się ochrona.

Towarzystwo oferuje szeroki pakiet ubezpieczeń dodatkowych, dzięki którym ochrona jest indywidualnie dopasowana do potrzeb podróżnych. Porównaj cenę ubezpieczenia turystycznego

Ubezpieczenie turystyczne TU EUROPA obejmuje cały świat, z wyłączeniem Polski oraz kraju rezydencji ubezpieczonego. 

Ubezpieczenie w pakiecie podstawowym Standard – obejmuje:

• Ubezpieczenie kosztów leczenia, ratownictwa i transportu: 15 000 euro (opcja Max: 30 000 euro),
• Ochronę w przypadku zachorowania na COVID-19,
• Ubezpieczenie następstw nieszczęśliwych wypadków do kwoty 3 000 euro,
• Następstwa chorób przewlekłych,
• Ochronę osób pod wpływem alkoholu.

Najbardziej rozbudowany Wariant The Best poza zakresem podstawowym zapewnia podróżnym:

• Ubezpieczenie kosztów leczenia, ratownictwa i transportu: 300 000 euro,
• Ubezpieczenie następstw nieszczęśliwych wypadków do kwoty 10 000 euro,
• Ubezpieczenie opóźnienia dostarczenia bagażu podróżnego do 150 euro,
• Ubezpieczenie odpowiedzialności cywilnej (szkody w mieniu, szkody na osobie).

Sumy ubezpieczenia

Wariant Standard:

• Całkowita suma ubezpieczenia: 15 000 euro (max 30 000 euro)
• Śmierć w wyniku wypadku 1 800 euro
• Trwały uszczerbek na zdrowiu 3 000 euro
• Szkody na osobie: nie dotyczy
• Szkody na mieniu: nie dotyczy
• Ubezpieczenie Bagażu: 300 euro
• Opóźnienie bagażu: nie dotyczy
• Opóźnienie lub odwołanie lotu: nie dotyczy

Wariant Standard Plus:

• Całkowita suma ubezpieczenia: 40 000 euro
• Śmierć w wyniku wypadku: 3 000 euro
• Trwały uszczerbek na zdrowiu: 5 000 euro
• Szkody na osobie: 100% sumy ubezpieczenia
• Szkody na mieniu: 20% sumy ubezpieczenia
• Ubezpieczenie Bagażu: 500 euro
• Opóźnienie bagażu: 150 euro

Wariant VIP:

• Całkowita suma ubezpieczenia: 100 000 euro
• Śmierć w wyniku wypadku: 6 000 euro
• Trwały uszczerbek na zdrowiu: 10 000 euro
• Ubezpieczenie Bagażu: 1 000 euro

Wariant The Best:

• Uprawiania sportów wysokiego ryzyka,
• Uprawianie sportów ekstremalnych,
• Wyczynowe uprawianie sportów,
• Wykonywanie niebezpiecznej pracy fizycznej.

Każde z ubezpieczeń w Travel World posiada własne, odrębne wyłączenia. Szczegółowe informacje dotyczące sytuacji, w których TU Europa nie wypłaci świadczenia znaleźć można w OWU.

Istnieje też spis wyłączeń wspólnych dla wszystkich ubezpieczeń:

• pozostawaniem ubezpieczonego w stanie po użyciu środków odurzających lub substancji psychotropowych albo środków zastępczych,
• działania wojenne, rozruchy, zamieszki, stan wojenny, akty terroryzmu lub sabotażu, z udziałem ubezpieczonego w nielegalnych strajkach,
• nieprzestrzeganiem zaleceń lekarza,
• usiłowaniem lub dokonaniem przestępstwa przez ubezpieczonego,
• próbą samobójczą, samobójstwem, umyślnym samookaleczeniem lub uszkodzeniem ciała na prośbę ubezpieczonego,
• prowadzeniem przez ubezpieczonego pojazdu mechanicznego bez wymaganych uprawnień,
• uczestnictwem ubezpieczonego w locie w charakterze pilota, członka załogi lub pasażera samolotu poza koncesjonowanymi liniami lotniczymi,
• chorobą psychiczną ubezpieczonego,
• alkoholizmem ubezpieczonego

Okres ubezpieczenia jest zawsze wskazany w umowie ubezpieczenia oraz dokumencie Ogólnych Warunków Ubezpieczenia.

Ochrona ubezpieczeniowa rozpoczyna się:

• Od dnia wskazanego w umowie ubezpieczenia jako data początkowa okresu ubezpieczenia.
• Nie wcześniej jednak niż od momentu zapłaty składki ubezpieczeniowej.
• W przypadku kosztów leczenia, ratownictwa, transportu, pomocy w podróży, opóźnienia bagażu podróżnego, odpowiedzialności cywilnej, Car Assistance: nie wcześniej niż po przekroczeniu granicy Polski i/lub kraju rezydencji przy wyjeździe.
• W przypadku następstw nieszczęśliwych wypadków, bagażu podróżnego, Bezpiecznej Walizki: nie wcześniej niż z chwilą rozpoczęcia podróży.

Ochrona ubezpieczeniowa kończy się:

• W momencie przekroczenia granicy Polski i/lub kraju rezydencji przy wjeździe, nie później jednak niż o godzinie 24:00 ostatniego dnia okresu ubezpieczenia.
• W przypadku następstw nieszczęśliwych wypadków, bagażu podróżnego, Bezpiecznej Walizki: w momencie zakończenia podróży, nie później jednak niż o godzinie 24:00 ostatniego dnia okresu ubezpieczenia.
• W przypadku ubezpieczenia leczenia po powrocie z podróży zagranicznej: nie wcześniej niż po przekroczeniu granicy Polski i/lub kraju rezydencji przy wyjeździe.
• Jeżeli ubezpieczony w chwili zawarcia umowy znajduje się poza granicami Polski: po upływie 2 dni od dnia zawarcia umowy.
• W ubezpieczeniu długoterminowym Travel World: okres ochrony dla jednej podróży zagranicznej trwa nie dłużej niż 45 dni.
• Z dniem wyczerpania sumy ubezpieczenia.
• Z dniem odstąpienia od umowy ubezpieczenia.
• Z chwilą śmierci ubezpieczonego.

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• 5. Generali
• 7. Nationale Nederlanden
• 9. Signal Iduna

Ubezpiecz się nawet o 20% taniej i odpoczywaj w spokoju

• Europe Tours

Europe Tours and Trip Packages 2024/2025

Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a history buff, or you just enjoy the finer things in life, a Europe tour package has something to offer every type of traveler. These Europe package tours and trips explore any of the continent’s 50 countries that are diverse in size, climate, traditions - and cost! With fine cuisine, world-renowned art and music, and 23 officially recognized languages, a tour in Europe can be a cultural labyrinth that fuels wanderlust. 

• Europe Travel Guide

+300 Trips in Europe with 6,169 Reviews

• Starts Amsterdam, Holland
• Ends Paris, France

Glimpse of Europe

• Best price guaranteed
• No booking fees
• Tour Type Group Tour
• Activities Sightseeing Tours & Art and architecture Sightseeing Tours , Art and architecture & Cultural, religious and historic sites 'data-more-tripid='21253'>+1 more
• Accommodation Hotel
• Transport Private Vehicle, Coach & Boat
• Age Range 5-99 yrs
• Operated in English
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,695
• Special Deal (19%): - US$ 320
• Total Price from: US$ 1,375

• Starts Vienna, Austria
• Ends Budapest, Hungary

Best of Central Europe

• Tour Type Small Group Tour
• Activities Sightseeing Tours & Art and architecture Sightseeing Tours , Art and architecture , Cultural, religious and historic sites & Mountains 'data-more-tripid='3044'>+2 more
• Accommodation Hotel & Resort
• Transport Train, Bus, Private Vehicle, Boat, Minibus & Taxi
• Age Range 15-99 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,925
• Special Deal (25%): - US$ 981
• Total Price from: US$ 2,944
• Apr 27 Only 9 seats left
• May 04 Only 5 seats left
• View More Jan 1, 2019 Jan 2, 2019 Jan 3, 2019

• Ends Amsterdam, Holland

Europe Jewel

• Activities Cultural, sightseeing, food tours & Art and architecture Cultural, sightseeing, food tours , Art and architecture & City sightseeing 'data-more-tripid='37689'>+1 more
• Transport Coach, Boat, Taxi & Train
• Age Range 10-99 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,090
• Special Deal (23%): - US$ 700
• Total Price from: US$ 2,390
• Mar 27 10+ seats left
• Apr 03 10+ seats left

• Starts London, England
• Ends London, England

Europe Taster

• Activities City sightseeing & Art & architecture tour City sightseeing , Art & architecture tour , Art and architecture , & heritage & Cultural, religious and historic sites 'data-more-tripid='37695'>+3 more
• Transport Coach, Boat & Train
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,815
• Special Deal (23%): - US$ 415
• Total Price from: US$ 1,400
• Mar 09 10+ seats left
• Mar 16 10+ seats left

Get Social: Central & Eastern Europe

• Activities Explorer
• Accommodation Bungalow & Hostel
• Transport Coach, Bus & Helicopter
• Age Range 18-39 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,739
• Special Deal (10%): - US$ 374
• Total Price from: US$ 3,365
• May 08 10+ seats left
• Jun 05 10+ seats left

• Starts Barcelona, Spain
• Ends Madrid, Spain

Spain & Portugal: Flamenco & Tapas

• Activities City sightseeing & Art and architecture City sightseeing , Art and architecture , Party and nightlife & Food tours 'data-more-tripid='4978'>+2 more
• Accommodation Hostel
• Transport Train, Bus & Coach
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,729
• Special Deal (20%): - US$ 346
• Total Price from: US$ 1,383
• Apr 26 Only 1 seat left
• May 03 Only 1 seat left

• Starts Sofia, Bulgaria
• Ends Athens, Greece

All About Balkans (4 Star Hotels)

• Activities Sightseeing Tours & Art and architecture Sightseeing Tours , Art and architecture & Cultural, religious and historic sites 'data-more-tripid='17753'>+1 more
• Transport Bus, Coach & Boat
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,497
• Special Deal (45%): - US$ 1,124
• Total Price from: US$ 1,373
• Apr 27 10+ seats left
• May 04 10+ seats left

• Starts Catania, Italy
• Ends Palermo, Italy

Small Group Food & Wine Tour of Sicily

• Free cancellation
• Trip customizable
• Activities Food tours & Wine tasting tours Food tours , Wine tasting tours , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Countryside and village visits & Local culture 'data-more-tripid='22521'>+3 more
• Transport Minibus
• Age Range 1-89 yrs

• Starts Vilnius, Lithuania
• Ends Tallinn, Estonia

Baltic Capital Cities

• Activities Active and outdoor & Cultural, religious and historic sites
• Transport Bus
• Age Range 16-95 yrs
• May 25 Only 7 seats left
• Jun 01 Only 4 seats left

• Starts Baku, Azerbaijan
• Ends Tbilisi, Georgia

Caucasus Countries (12 days)

• Activities Sightseeing Tours & Cultural, religious and historic sites Sightseeing Tours , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Art and architecture & National parks 'data-more-tripid='18354'>+2 more
• Transport Coach & Minibus
• Age Range 12-75 yrs
• May 04 Only 6 seats left
• May 18 10+ seats left

• Starts Dublin, Ireland
• Ends Dublin, Ireland

Irish Explorer

• Activities Art and architecture & Cultural, religious and historic sites
• Transport Coach
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,480
• Special Deal (23%): - US$ 335
• Total Price from: US$ 1,145
• Mar 30 10+ seats left

European Vistas

• Activities Natural landmarks sightseeing & City sightseeing
• Transport Coach, Boat, Private Vehicle & Taxi
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,890
• Special Deal (26%): - US$ 490
• Today 10+ seats left
• May 01 10+ seats left

• Starts Lisbon, Portugal
• Ends Porto, Portugal

Highlights of Portugal

• Activities Local culture & Art and architecture Local culture , Art and architecture , Cultural, religious and historic sites & Shopping and Markets 'data-more-tripid='10596'>+2 more
• Transport Train, Private Vehicle & Boat
• Age Range 12-95 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,649
• Special Deal (20%): - US$ 330
• Total Price from: US$ 1,319
• Jun 09 Only 1 seat left
• Jun 10 Only 9 seats left

• Starts Split, Croatia
• Ends Split, Croatia

Croatia Sailing Adventure

• Activities Sailing, yachting and motor boating & National parks Sailing, yachting and motor boating , National parks & Chill out 'data-more-tripid='37268'>+1 more
• Accommodation Yacht Cabin
• Transport Private Vehicle, Yacht & Boat
• Age Range 18-40 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,895
• Special Deal (30%): - US$ 569
• Total Price from: US$ 1,326
• May 29 10+ seats left

Europe Tour Reviews

• Shamsiev Shokhrukh
• Carrie Van De Polder
• Jane Pettigrew

Europe - Tour Package Highlights and Trip Insights

With so much to see, do, eat and buy, planning a Europe tour is no easy feat. There are, of course, the typical sightseeing musts: Paris’ Louvre, London’s Tower Bridge, and Rome’s Colosseum. Even Europe’s most frequent visitors will always find something new to discover. Read on for our top Europe tour highlights and Europe trip insights.

Europe Tour Package Highlights

• Go back in time and explore the ruins of ancient civilizations in Italy and Greece
• Snack on cheese and wine (or escargot, if you’re feeling adventurous) in the Champ de Mars, beneath the Eiffel Tower
• Ride a bicycle through the townhouse-lined streets of Amsterdam before touring the canals by boat
• Listen to the romantic songs of the gondoliers as you cruise through the canals of Venice
• Indulge in an authentic Belgian waffle, drowned in chocolate
• Enjoy an ice-cold beer from a beer stein at Oktoberfest in Germany
• Hike from village to village in Italy’s Cinque Terre
• Get lost between the shelves of some of the world’s most beautiful libraries, like those at Trinity College (Dublin, Ireland), Mafra Palace (Mafra, Portugal), and the Clementinum Baroque Library Hall (Prague, Czech Republic)
• Join a Europe tour that goes through many of Europe's travel highlights in countries such as Spain , France , Italy , Netherlands and Scandinavia .

Europe Trip Insights

• Traveling by rail is one of the easiest (and sometimes cheapest) ways to get around Europe, especially if you plan to travel for a couple of weeks (or longer). Investigate rail passes before you visit, particularly ones that can be used between countries. Interrail and Eurail are very popular among travelers.
• Don’t skip the “touristy” destinations. Everyone travels differently, but the most popular European highlights are popular for a reason. Brave the crowds and be sure to stop by those more cliché sites - you’ll be glad you did.
• Try not to over prepare! One of the great benefits of visiting Europe is that it’s incredibly easy to travel between towns and countries. Allow yourself some flexibility to open yourself up to new adventures (and avoid travel burnout). If you've booked a Europe tour package with accommodation, activities, guides etc. get ready to indulge and relax - you are up for a Europe trip of a lifetime. 
• Chances are you don’t speak 23 different languages, so be prepared before you travel. Avoid carrying around heavy guide books by downloading a translation app on your phone.
• Note that not all European countries use the Euro, including the United Kingdom , Denmark and Hungary (among others). Do your research beforehand and be ready to juggle different currencies if you’re planning an extensive trip.
• Travelling on a budget? Check our last minute holiday and travel deals to Europe . Also, consider looking for accommodation outside the city centre. Most large European cities are very well connected by public transportation, meaning all your bucket list sites are just a quick (and often inexpensive) bus, train, or metro ride away.

Tours in Europe - Questions and Answers

You can spend a couple of months exploring Europe and still feel like you have not seen everything. Generally speaking, a two-week Europe trip should be just enough if you are looking to cover its major highlights. However, if you want a comprehensive travel experience within this duration, it is better that you focus on a region or a few countries rather than traveling all over the continent. 

Choose a single country or schedule your trip around a handful of cities in different countries. While larger European cities may require three to four days to explore, you can get around smaller destinations in a day or two. Planning your trip around a particular region will cut down your travel time and save your time in transit.

If you are planning to visit multiple countries, you should prepare a tentative list of destinations you are interested in. If it is your first trip, stick to major cities and cultural centers for the sake of simplicity and convenience. Also, be flexible and optimize your travel time and budget. Be open to changing your itinerary depending on schedules and ticket prices.

There are dozens of insurance companies offering travel insurance, which can make it difficult for you to choose the right one.

There are a number of things that you should be aware of while purchasing travel insurance. If it is comprehensive medical insurance plans that you are interested in, make sure to find out what all the plan covers. If you are concerned about certain scenarios, then check out customizable travel insurance policies and find out if the provider can cover you for those situations. You also need to determine if there are reasonable coverage limits. Check deductibles and compensation limits in the insurance policy for this.

While insurance is important, it is mostly a safeguard against emergencies. If you are on a budget, you can go with the second- or even third-best option and prioritize getting your money’s worth instead of purchasing the most comprehensive coverage.

Europe has swathes of spectacular landscapes, a rich history, and vibrant cultures. Therefore, deciding on the best travel destinations on the continent can be difficult. However, you can narrow down on highlights by choosing one overarching theme for your trip. 

If you are looking forward to immersing yourself in art and history, then Italy, Spain , and France should be on the top of your list. Head for Switzerland , Norway , or Croatia if nature is what you love the most. For beaches and water sports, you will be hard-pressed to find better destinations than Greece , Portugal , and Montenegro.

Having said that, you can also diversify your itinerary by mixing and matching different elements of the same country. Italy  tops the charts not just for its medieval monuments and Renaissance art but also for coastal scenery and sun-soaked beaches. Similarly, Spain is a foodie paradise as much as it is an architectural hotspot.

Bus services like FlixBus and BusAbout offer a convenient means of transport if you wish to move from one city to another within the same country. Although these services do travel between countries, they might not be the best choice due to a longer travel time.

Budget airlines are another great way to get around Europe’s major cities, especially when you want to cut down on travel time between two countries. Keep an eye out and you might be able to snag tickets at unbelievable rates. Services like Skyscanner can be of help. Some of the largest budget airlines in the continent are Ryanair , WizzAir , Eurowings , and EasyJet .

Ridesharing services are a godsend for those wishing to immerse themselves in local culture as they offer you the chance to catch a ride with locals along the way. BlaBlaCar is the largest one. The only downside is that it is not always as easy to book a rideshare service as it is to catch a bus or hop on a budget flight.

The USA is one of the 63 countries whose citizens enjoy visa-free entry into the EU Schengen zone along with the UK and associated states like Iceland , Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. 

This means that if you are an American citizen with a valid US passport and want to travel to Europe for a limited amount of time for tourism or business purpose, you can do so anytime you want to. However, if you have more long-term plans (say, you intend to get employed, study, or simply live in Europe for an extended period of time), you will need to apply for a visa. The type of your visa and required documentation depend on your goals. 

Update for 2022: EU is set to launch ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) by the end of this year. It is similar to ESTA and is supposed to help simplify travel procedures and decrease security risks. All travelers allowed to travel to the EU and associated states visa-free will require an ETIAS authorization. This also includes US citizens.

If your country has a visa-free agreement with the EU, you are allowed to spend up to 90 days within a period of 180 days. Keep in mind that the countdown starts on the date of your entry and ends on the date of your exit. So, for example, if you fly into an EU country on the first of the month and exit on the 15th, it will count as a 15-day stay.

There are 63 countries in the world that have a visa-waiver agreement with the EU . If your country is part of this agreement, you can travel to Europe visa-free. You do, however, need to show the following to be allowed into the Schengen Zone and associated states.

• A valid passport: Your passport should have a validity of at least 3 months at the time of your entry into Schengen and be less than ten years old.
• Purpose of entry: In addition to your passport, you also require documents that prove that you are there for tourism purposes. These documents can include invoices for hotel reservations and booked tours. 
• Proof of financial means: You also need to carry documents proving that you can support yourself during your stay in the region.

As long as you have got all three, all you need is a plane ticket to your chosen destination. 

• Europe budget tours
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• Europe romantic holidays
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• Europe small group tours
• Europe solo trips
• Europe tours for senior citizens
• Europe tours for young adults
• Europe group tours
• Europe last minute deals
• Europe travel deals

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Europe , Travel

How to travel europe like a pro: 50 europe travel tips you need to know before you go.

Before you go to leave, be sure to read these 50 essential tips for traveling to Europe that you help you travel Europe like a pro!

Europe travel tips: 50 things you should know before going to europe.

Europe is my favorite place to travel. Despite having traveled extensively around the world, it’s still the place I return to again and again. We travel Europe at least once a year, and even lived there for an entire year!

But you don’t have to stay for an entire year to get a feel for this amazing continent. Even just one week in Europe  at any of these incredible destinations is enough to make you fall in love!

There are so many incredible places to go in Europe with so many different countries and cultures to explore without actually traveling very far! Traveling through Europe can seem a little overwhelming if you’ve never been before, so I wanted to share a few things you should know before going to Europe. This will make your first visit much more enjoyable.

If you’re traveling with kids, be sure to read these 10 tips for taking kids to Europe. 

1. Budget for Your Trip

Before you even purchase tickets to Europe, sit down, like a responsible adult, and plan a budget for your trip to Europe. Make sure it’s realistic and make sure it’s something that you can afford right now. While I love to rack up credit card points by using them on travel, it’s important to be reasonable. The good news is that Europe can be done fairly inexpensively, in fact, we actually spent less money traveling Europe for a year than we did staying home!

How much does it cost to travel Europe?

That answer really depends on how many people are in your party, what style of travel you like, and how budget you’re willing to go. You can travel Europe cheap if you’re smart about it, but I would plan on $1,000/person for each week just to be safe.

The cheapest way to explore Europe is to plan ahead and shop around for the best deals on accommodation, transportation, and airfare because there are tons of Europe travel deals out there on the internet! If you want to know how to travel Europe cheap, you can read about how we actually spend less money living there for a year than we did at home. 

Be sure to read my guide to planning financially for a vacation,   which includes a Europe travel budget calculator so that you can find out just how much your trip will cost.

2. Save for Your Trip

Now that you have your budget set in place for visiting Europe you can start saving! These are some easy ways that I save money for travel.  You don’t need to turn over your whole paycheck, but you’ll need to make saving for travel a priority so you don’t go into crazy debt to be able to afford it. Credit cards definitely have their place and can be useful for earning points, but be sure you pay it off each month! If you can’t afford to do so, maybe don’t spend it. This is why having a travel fund is so important. When those travel deals pop up you’ll be ready to jump with your special savings!

3. Check Europe Travel Visa Requirements

Americans traveling to Europe won’t need a Visa to travel to most countries on the continent. Europe travel visas are a little complicated, but you can learn more about them here.   If you’re looking to stay in Europe for more than 90 days, read this.

Beginning in 2023, US citizens and citizens of other previously non-visa countries coming to the EU will now need a ETIAS Visa. Read here for what that means for you.

4. Buy Flights Early

You can usually get the best deals to Europe by booking early. Start keeping an eye out for cheap flights as early as possible. Read my guide to finding cheap flights to be sure you’re getting the best deals!

5. Read Books About your Destinations

Once you decide where you’re going in Europe, find books to read about it. I don’t mean guide books, although those can be great. I love these ones. I mean books, both fiction and nonfiction, that tell a story set in Europe. It can make your trip so much more meaningful when you have some connections.

You can read this awesome list of 100+ books organized by continent that will inspire you to travel.

6. Pack Light

Pack light, especially if you’ll be traveling around Europe and taking public transportation. There’s nothing more frustrating than trying to haul heavy luggage around on trains! I promise!

Make a packing list, then take less than you think you’ll need. If you’re going to Europe for more than one week, pack for one week, then plan on washing and/or re-wearing what you’ve brought. There’s nothing shameful about washing your laundry in a tub or sink or even spending some time with the locals at the laundromat! It could be an adventure!

If you want to wash your own clothes more efficiently, consider getting one of these awesome laundry wash bags that make laundry day way easier and more fun!

7. Bring Melatonin to Beat Jetlag

Consult your doctor before taking any medication. I am not a doctor, but this is what works for me. I buy the gummy melatonin (because I have kids) and take it with me every time I travel. Sleeping in a new bed is hard enough, but add a 6 hour time difference once you’re in Europe and it’s all over! When you’re ready for bed, take about 3-10 mg of melatonin which will help you shift your internal clock. Melatonin is an over the counter sleep aid and can be purchased at any drug store or grocery store. I really like this one because it tastes delicious and is 5mg (a good amount for adults) and this one for kids or smaller people since it’s only 2.5 mg (which is hard to find in stores).

Be sure to pull down the shades and make it as dark as possible. I like to use this amazing eye mask to achieve complete darkness! I love that it leaves space for your eyelashes, which is a huge selling point for me! And yes, it does look like a bra for your eyes! 

8. Don’t Try to See it All!

This is probably one of my best Europe travel tips! T raveling to Europe for the first time will be so exciting and you’re going to want to see as much as you can.  Europe is filled with so many bucket list destinations screaming to be visited! Unless you’re staying in Europe for a year, don’t try to see it all in one trip! Europe is huge and each country is so different. Just one city could honestly keep you busy for a lifetime!

Even though it’s so easy to travel around Europe, don’t spend all of your time on a train, plane or car! Plus, just more reasons to come back right?! I would stick to 2-3 cities in one visit depending on the length of your trip. The best way to travel Europe is slowly! Take your time, you can always come back.

If you only have one week, these 20 One-Week Europe Trip Itinerary Ideas will help you decide which cities to visit.

9. Book Your Accommodations as Early as Possible

Once you know where you’re going in Europe you can book your accommodation. The sooner you book your accommodation in Europe the better! You’ll have more options and lower prices.

We like to use this website to easily search for our desired accommodations. I like it because you can enter specific parameters like hotels with pools, good for kids, a certain number of beds, etc. 

Also, consider using VRBO instead of staying in a hotel. It can significantly increase your savings! Staying in a VRBO also allows you to see your destination as the locals do. 

10. Learn How to Travel Around Europe

Before arriving in any city, be sure to do some research and learn how to get around using public transportation or a rental car. Each city has its own rules that can be complicated to say the least. Using public transportation in a foreign country can be a great way to experience cities like a local but can also be intimidating. Be sure to do your research ahead of time so you know how to use each public transportation system. If you’re going to London, read my guide to getting around London here and my guide to train travel in Italy here . 

11. Travel Europe by Train

I think the train is the best way to travel Europe!

Train travel in Europe is an efficient and inexpensive way to get around within the countries and between them. You may want to consider getting a Rail Pass train tickets .  When you travel Europe by train, be sure you know the rules for each country.

If you’re going to Italy, read about how to use the train system in Italy here.

12. Get an International Drivers License

Be careful when renting cars in Europe that you check to see if an international drivers license is required. Obtaining one is quick and easy. You can make an appointment at any AAA. You’ll need 2 pictures of yourself and your drivers’ license. Read this to learn more.

13. Call Your Credit Card Company

Before leaving for your trip to Europe, call your bank and/or credit card company and tell then where and when you’re traveling. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve had my card put on hold from forgetting to do this!14 . Take a Credit Card, Debit Card, and Cash

In Europe they have this thing called “Chip and Pin” that the US hasn’t seemed to catch onto for some reason. Because of this, your credit card might not work sometimes, so be sure you have a debit card and/or cash on hand.

15 . Have Cash with You

I recommend using an ATM to withdrawal the local currency as it will use your bank’s exchange rate, which will most likely be lower than the foreign transaction fees of the currency exchange booths at the airport.

You’ll also want to have cash as some places may not accept cards. This is especially true for many gelaterias in Europe! You want to be sure to have cash for those important things like gelato!!! Some small towns in Europe may not even accept cards at restaurants, so you’ll want to have a decent chunk of cash hidden away.

16. Know About the Currency of Each Country

When I went to Europe as a little girl, before the EU was formed, every country had a different currency. It was really fun to collect the coins, but a nightmare when you were road tripping through Europe!

Now, most countries in Europe use the Euro, but some countries still use their own currency. Here is a list of countries who use the Euro:

• Netherlands

All other European countries that don’t use the Euro use a local currency. You can see a complete list here. 

17. Leave the Majority of Your Cash in the Hotel

While it’s important to have cash available during your trip to Europe, you don’t want to be carrying around hundreds of Euros/Pounds/Franks/etc. every day. Leave the majority of your cash in your hotel room or Airbnb. Be sure to put it away so it’s not visible.

18. Wear Your Cash

I like to carry cash close to me in one of these carriers or in my favorite travel accessory ever… a fanny pack (bum bag for non-Americans). How did I ever live from age 10-30 without one of these?! Why did I stop wearing them? They’re literally the best invention!

I own several, including this beautiful one from Fawn Design , but I love these ones as well, and they come in 12 different colors. They are a perfect size to put your phone and wallet in. I even have this larger fanny pack that actually holds my Sony camera! I like it because you can turn it into a purse if you feel so inclined, but honestly, why would you want to?! Everyone get on the fanny pack train with me ok?! Please!

19. Spend Your Coins

I’m not used to pulling out coins to pay for things in the US unless I’m buying gum! But in Europe you’ll be getting a lot of 2 Euro coins that add up quickly. Be sure you spend your coins as well as your cash. Also, if you’re exchanging any leftover currency at the airport before you go home, they do not accept coins! I usually give my kids all my leftover coins to go to town at the airport gift shops!

20. Know How to Stay Safe

This is probably one of the most important travel tips for Europe.

Europe is pretty safe in general. But just like anywhere in the world, it is best to be on your guard and be away of risks and threats around you. Be especially careful in highly touristy areas where there are large crowds in small spaces. I highly recommend wearing a fanny pack instead of a backpack. And if you have a backpack, don’t keep your wallet in the front pocket where it’s accessible to pickpockets.

Don’t walk alone at night down dark alleys. Basically, take the same types of precautions that you’d take at home.

Also beware of scammers asking for you to sign a petition, mothers with children asking you for money, or people posing as train company employees offering to help you buy tickets. These are pretty well-known scams around Europe, so just keep an eye out and know what you’re up against.

21. Travel Insurance Europe

It’s always a good idea to have travel insurance when you travel to Europe. I think the best travel insurance for Europe is World Nomads. They are a reputable company that has been around for a long time. You can check their rates here.  I also really like Allianz    because kids are free! You can check their rates here. 

22. Register with the State Department

For safety reasons, it’s a good idea to register your location and dates with the State Department.  Especially if you’re travelling alone in Europe. It’s easy and only takes a few minutes. If anything were to happen, the Embassy would know to find and help you! You’ll see why I feel so strongly about this in my next tip…

23. Always Carry Your Passport

I feel like this is a highly debated topic, but I’m just giving you my personal opinion. We keep our passports with us at all times in Europe. We were in Paris on the day of the attacks a few years ago. If anything had happened to us it would have been essential for us to have our passports, especially if we couldn’t get back to our Airbnb. You just never know what could happen and it’s always better to be prepared for anything.

24. Book Attraction Tickets in Advance

With travel becoming more and more popular and overtourism becoming a real problem, popular attractions like the Eiffel Tower, Vatican, London Eye, and Colosseum require advanced booking or you risk not being able to visit them. This happened to us on one of our visits to Paris with the kids and it was a total bummer. You can book almost any attraction in Europe here , including skip-the-line tours.

25. Don’t Over-Plan

While it’s important to plan out your trip, especially for major attractions, be sure to leave some unscheduled time in your European itinerary for downtime and also for wandering aimlessly, which is one of my very favorite European vacation pastimes!

26. Get Off the Beaten Path

Definitely visit those top sites that you’ve been dreaming of seeing (there’s really no comparison to the Eiffel Tower), but don’t be afraid to get off the beaten path a bit and explore some alternative destinations and sites around Europe.  With over 15 million tourists each year, Europe can get crowded, especially during peak season. Don’t be afraid to leave the tourists’ path and try something new and different.

27. Stay Connected Abroad

I don’t know about you, but I literally cannot live without my phone. It’s not because I’m addicted to technology (ok maybe I am) But seriously, maps, UBER, etc…so hard to live without those things, especially when traveling! Stay connected by either getting a local SIM Card (most airports will have kiosks where you can rent or buy one, or you can just buy one online here ) or use a Portable WiFi device like Skyroam.

Also use Express VPN. Learn more about why you need a VPN here. 

28. Learn a few words of the local language

Knowing just a few words in the local language can be hugely helpful. Just knowing how to say please, thank you, yes, no, and excuse me can be crucial. Lucky for us language-lacking Americans, most people in Europe’s city centers will speak passing English and be able to understand what you’re saying at least. The farther out from the cities you get, the more difficult this becomes. You’ll also want to be sure you have the Google Translate app installed on your phone with the languages of the European countries you’re traveling to. 

29. Wake Up Early

This may seem basic, but it’s probably one of my best Europe travel tips! Make use of those early morning hours and wander the streets before the rest of the tourists descend. This is especially true for Venice, Paris, and Rome, which can be magical places in the morning light. It’s the only time you’ll be able to experience these cities without the hoards.

I like to wake up around 5:30 or 6 and walk out the door right around the time the sun comes up, which will vary depending on the season you visit. Then we usually have an early lunch and go back to our Airbnb or hotel for a rest during the hottest and busiest hours of the day so we can recharge, and go out again around 3 or 4 for more exploring. Then we have dinner after the sun goes down to take advantage of all the daylight hours.

30. Shop at the Grocery Stores

One of my favorite things to do when visiting Europe is to shop at the grocery stores! I know it seems really silly, and non-vacation-like, but I get pretty sick of eating out and I love to discover the different products in foreign countries.

If you visit Paris, Monoprix is my favorite store. In London, I love Marks & Spencer. At these stores, you can also usually find premade salads, sandwiches, and pre-cut and packaged fruits and vegetables which make for really convenient picnic food or just a meal on the go. It’s also a great way to save money while traveling in Europe.

Pay attention to the opening hours because some shops close in the afternoon for lunch and a nap!

31. Shop at the Markets

Be sure to spend some time shopping at the local markets around Europe. You never know what you’ll find. Most markets are not just a touristy thing to do, but places that locals come to get their weekly or daily groceries. Try something you’ve never tried before. You never know what you might fall in love with. Some of my favorite European foods are ones that I’ve tried at a market. Check out the best European markets here.

32. Know How to Find Authentic Restaurants

When you’re looking for a great authentic and affordable place to eat in Europe, get AWAY from the main tourist attractions at least several blocks before considering anything.

Avoid places with pictures of food and a million things on the menu and no prices. Good restaurants will have only a small selection of food and no pictures!

Look for locals! If you don’t see a lot of tourists eating there, but it’s packed with locals, then you’re good!

33. Be Aware of the Coperto

Be aware of the coperto , which is basically a charge for sitting down to eat. Some people in Venice have recently been scammed and charged several hundred dollars for the coperto! It’s rare, but just beware and don’t be afraid to ask. Most menus will have the coperto price listed in really small print somewhere.

When eating out in Europe you may have to be a little more forthright with your waiter. Only in America do the waitstaff check on you every 5 minutes! Since tipping is not as expected in Europe as it is in the US so you won’t receive the level of butt-kissing that you may be used to. Don’t be afraid to signal them for attention if you need something and you’ll probably need to ask for the check when you’re done.

If you’re visiting a pub in the UK, you’ll need to order your food at the bar, then find a seat. We’ve learned these lessons the hard and embarrassing way, so please take my advice!

34. Know About Tipping in Europe

Tipping is pretty expected in Europe, but not the 15-20% like in the US. It’s hard for me to let this one go, but the customary tip is usually the small change if you’re paying cash. I’ll be honest I still leave a pretty good tip, especially if I had a great waiter who was patient with me and walked me through the menu and made suggestions. If you can afford it, I think it would make someone’s day to give a good tip, especially if they’re deserving, however, it’s not required or expected.

If you’re paying for dinner with a card, you’ll most likely need to bring cash for a tip! The card machines in most restaurants in Europe do not allow for you to leave a tip on your card.

Also, when paying with a card, your waiter will bring the card machine to the table. This is something I wish they’d do in the US as well. I don’t like the idea of someone walking off with my card!

35. It’s OK to Drink the Water

Most of the water in Europe is safe to drink from the tap. In most restaurants, you will not be given tap water without asking for it, especially if you’re American, but don’t be afraid to ask!

If you’re skeptical about drinking the tap water you can always order bottled water or use a filtered water bottle or life straw.

36. Eat at McDonald’s

I know…this seems like the most ridiculous bad-tourist thing to do! But eating at McDonald’s in Europe is a really fun experience. Every country has its own spin on the fast food chain. France has Croque Monsieur, Italy has mozzarella sticks, etc. Plus, my kids tell me that the toys in a Happy Meals are better in Europe…in case you were wondering!

37. Take a Bus Tour

Take a bus tour. Taking the HOHO bus (hop on hop off) on your first day in a new city can be really helpful. It allows you to get a good overview of the major European cities quickly so you’ll be prepared to take it on by foot!

38. Take an UBER Tour

Many cities in Europe offer UBER tours where you can book a driver for an hour and they will take you around the city. It’s great to have a local who drives the city for a living taking you to all their favorite spots. We did this in Rome and it was one of our favorite experiences!

39. Take Free Walking Tours

Many European cities offer free walking tours, which can be a great way to learn about a city. We like to use Guru Walk . Be sure to tip your guide well since your tour was free!

40. Rent a Bike

Renting a bike is a great way to see areas of Europe. I love biking in Paris especially. You can also book bike tours that provide a guide.

41. Book Airbnb Experiences

In an effort to be a more sustainable traveler, we’ve started doing more and more Airbnb Experiences that benefit the locals rather than larger tour companies.  If you’re looking for a really authentic experience with a local, book a tour or class through Airbnb. We have done cooking classes, food tours, and photography tours through Airbnb and they’ve all been great! It’s a great way to connect with a local and really enrich your trip.

42. Visit Museums

No one does museums better than Europe! Maybe because there is so much history there, they seem to be masters at preserving and displaying artifacts and also making it really fun and educational at the same time.

Take advantage of the many museums in Europe. If you’re traveling to Europe with kids, they will especially benefit from this as they are free in most museums. Don’t be afraid to try the smaller lesser-known museums, as well, as these can be real hidden gems. Check out the awesome museums just in London here.

43. Attend Theater or Concerts

Take advantage of all the culture and talent in Europe. It can really enrich your experience to see a show or a concert. We love seeing shows in the west end in London, ballets in Paris, operas in Vienna, and orchestra concerts in Venice!

44. Take Advantage of Free Activities and Sites

Keep an eye out for free things to do in Europe. Many of the sites are free and looking for activities that don’t cost you a thing can help you branch out and try new things!

45. Know How to Use the Restrooms

Many European bathrooms will charge you to use them. Some cities, like Paris, have little toilet huts (I don’t know what else to call them) in the city center that require some coins to enter. Other bathrooms will have turnstiles to enter the bathrooms, others will have a bathroom attendant who collects your money and keeps the bathroom tidy.

There are all sorts of restroom situations in Europe, so just be prepared for anything and always have coins on you. I’d say the average bathroom fee is 50 Euro cents.

46. Keep a Travel Journal

When I was little and taking my first trip to Europe, my grandma made me keep a travel journal. I hated it! But now, of course, I look back on that journal and love reading it! Keep a small, simple journal with you and write about each day. I love this travel journal because it has writing prompts included.

47. Talk to the Locals

The best way to get to know a destination is to get to know its people. Don’t be afraid to talk with the locals. Learn their stories. They have probably lived in the area for a long time and can tell you the best places to eat and spend time. We’ve made some lifelong friends that we still keep in touch with this way.

48. Be a Responsible Tourist

Overtourism is becoming a real problem in Europe. With so many tourists visiting each year, cities are getting more and more crowded and more and more polluted. When you travel to Europe, be responsible. Remember that you are a guest in another country. Please behave as if you were visiting a distant relative. Don’t litter, don’t be too loud or obnoxious, and respect their rules.

Also, be mindful of the environment. Limit plastic usage by bringing a reusable water bottle from home and avoiding plastic straws. You can learn more about sustainable travel here. 

49. Volunteer

If you find an opportunity to volunteer when you travel through Europe, this can be a great way to make an impact and a memorable way to spend your trip. Check out JustServe.org for volunteer opportunities around the globe.

50. Expect Problems and Roll with the Punches

Expect problems on your first trip to Europe. It’s only natural that not everything will go to plan. For as many times as I’ve been to Europe, I have yet to have one trip go smoothly. One time I almost got robbed, another time a Taxi driver drove off with ALL my bags, once my husband missed a train while I had 4 little kids and all the luggage.

Traveling is just like life. There will always be hiccups along the way, but this makes travel exciting and memorable! The hiccups are all part of the experience. The trick is to enjoy the ride and make the most of any situation. Don’t let the setbacks ruin your trip.

BONUS 51. Have Fun!

I hope this one is a given. It’s nearly impossible not to have fun while traveling in Europe. Now that you’re armed with all these tips, I hope you’re ready to book your flights!

Do you have any other tips for visiting Europe? I’d love to hear them! You can get in touch with me via Instagram of Facebook.

Practical Tips for Booking your Trip

Book Your Flight s and Car Find a budget airlines by using  Skyscanner . This is my favorite way to search for flights because they crawl websites and airlines around the globe, so you always know you’re getting the best deal. Learn more tips for finding the best flight deals here. For cars, I like to use Rental Cars because they have good filters and its easy to search for multiple companies.

Book Your Accommodation My preferred way to stay around the world is VRBO . I find it usually gives you a unique local experience in any destination. If you want to stay in a hotel, use  Booking , as it consistently gives the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels. I use them both all the time.

Always Get Travel Insurance Travel insurance protects you and your family against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s peace of mind in case anything goes wrong. I never travel without it. I’ve been using World Nomads for the last few years and love how easy it is to use. I have also used Allianz . Compare rates to see which is best for the coverage you need.

Looking for ways to save money on travel? Check out my  resource page  for the companies I use for traveling! I share everything I use to save me time and money.

Travelling in Europe 2023

• Introduction

Documents you will need

Help for consumers, getting there, your rights, staying healthy, staying connected, things to do, in case of emergency, getting in touch with the eu, finding information about the eu.

Welcome to the 2023 edition of Travelling in Europe! The big news for travellers this year is that Croatia became the 27th member of the Schengen area on 1 January. This means that checks have been lifted for people crossing the borders between Croatia and the other countries in the Schengen area – the world’s largest free travel zone. Croatia has also adopted the euro, which means that around 347 million citizens in the EU now use the same currency. If you are visiting Greece, Hungary or Romania, don’t forget to check out this year’s European Capitals of Culture. And if you are in Cyprus or Spain, then why not look up the European Capitals of Smart Tourism? Wherever you are travelling in Europe, keep safe and have fun! For more information, helpful tips and a map of Europe, see below. Order or download this leaflet here: https://data.europa.eu/doi/10.2775/92089

With thousands of years of history, a rich cultural heritage and breathtaking scenery, Europe is home to some of the world’s most popular destinations.

As well as attracting millions of visitors from overseas, those who call Europe home love to explore the multitude of cities and countries on their doorstep.

Today, it is as easy for Europeans to travel around the EU as it is to travel within their home country. The removal of most passport checks and the use of the same currency – the euro – in 20 EU countries have made travelling much easier. The creation of a single market where people, goods, services and money can move freely has brought wider choice and lower prices.

More and more young Europeans are also getting to know their continent better thanks to the DiscoverEU travel pass.

EU citizens

Passport or identity card.

Thanks to the Schengen Agreement, most EU countries have removed controls at their borders.

Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland are also in the Schengen area, although they are not in the EU. This means, for example, that you can go skiing in Switzerland without having to show your passport when crossing the border from the EU.

Border controls within the Schengen area can exceptionally be introduced for a limited period if there is a serious threat to public safety or security.

When travelling to or returning from EU countries that are not part of the Schengen area, you will need to present a valid passport or ID card. Everyone crossing the EU’s external borders, including EU citizens, is subject to systematic checks against relevant databases.

Even if you don’t need a passport for border checks within the Schengen area, you will need to carry a valid travel document (your passport or ID card) when travelling in the EU because it may be required for identification or security purposes. Children must have their own passport or ID card. Be aware that the only valid ID is the one obtained from your national authority.

Before travelling outside the EU, check what documents are required by the non-EU country you are planning to visit.

You will not need a visa when travelling within the EU. https://europa.eu/!uC67MV

non-EU citizens

Note: citizens of Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland are treated as EU citizens for the purposes of travel and entry into EU countries, since these four countries are part of the Schengen area.

You will need a valid passport.

Citizens from more than 100 countries require a visa to visit the EU. The list of countries whose citizens require visas to travel to Ireland differs slightly from other EU countries.

You can apply for a visa at the consulate or embassy of the EU country you plan to visit (or the one that is your main destination). If you hold a Schengen visa you can travel to all the Schengen countries. If you have a valid long-stay visa or residence permit issued by one of the Schengen countries, you can stay for up to 90 days in other Schengen countries. You may need a national visa to visit the non-Schengen EU countries. https://europa.eu/!7wTtqr https://europa.eu/!Um73Ug

There are more than 60 countries and territories whose citizens do not need a visa to visit the EU for up to 90 days. In 2024, visitors from these countries will be required to apply for an ETIAS travel authorisation. It will be required for people travelling to any of the Schengen or non-Schengen countries listed in the earlier table, except Ireland. The new system will increase security and avoid delays at the border for travellers. https://europa.eu/etias

The euro (€) is currently used every day by more than three quarters of EU citizens, or around 347 million people in 20 EU countries: Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Cyprus, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia and Spain. Andorra, Monaco, San Marino and the Vatican City use the euro as their national currency, in agreement with the EU. A number of countries and territories, such as Kosovo (*) and Montenegro, also use the euro as their de facto currency.

(*) This designation is without prejudice to positions on status, and is in line with UNSCR 1244/1999 and the ICJ Opinion on the Kosovo declaration of independence.

Cards and cash

Today, cross-border euro payments, including cash machine withdrawals and card payments, cost the same as they do at home for EU citizens, although you may still be charged a currency conversion fee if you live outside the euro area. You can now also easily check and compare conversion charges when paying with your card or withdrawing cash abroad.

Block any lost or stolen bank cards immediately by calling the issuer. Make a note of the number to ring before you travel.

If you enter or leave the EU with €10,000 or more in cash (*) (or its equivalent in other currencies) you must declare it to the customs authorities.

(*) Cash means banknotes, coins, bearer negotiable instruments and certain types of gold.

Within the EU

There are no limits on what you can buy and take with you when you travel between EU countries, as long as it is for your own personal use and not for resale. Taxes (value added tax and excise duties) are included in the price you pay and no further payment is due in any other EU country.

However, special rules apply in the case of goods subject to excise duty, such as alcohol and tobacco products. To determine whether tobacco and alcohol are for your own use, each country can set guide levels. If you carry a larger quantity of these goods, you may be questioned to check that you have no commercial intent. However, countries may not set their guide levels lower than the amounts in the table below.

Coming into the EU

If you enter the EU from a non-EU country, you can bring with you goods free of value added tax (VAT) and excise duties for personal use within the limits set out below. The same applies if you come from territories where EU rules on VAT and excise duty do not apply.

There is a higher or lower limit on the amount of tobacco you can bring into the EU depending on the country, so check the customs rules of the EU country you are visiting.

(*) Each amount represents 100 % of the total allowance for tobacco products. You may combine any of these, but you must not exceed the total limit. For example: 100 cigarettes (50 % of allowance) + 50 cigarillos (50 % of allowance) = 100 % of total allowance.

(**) For spirits and fortified or sparkling wine, each of these amounts represents 100 % of the total of the allowance, which you can split. For example, you can bring half a litre of spirits and 1 litre of fortified wine – both represent half of this allowance.

Travellers under the age of 17 cannot make use of these tobacco and alcohol allowances.

If you are travelling from one EU country to another via a non-EU country (e.g. Switzerland) you will need to check the customs rules of that country.

Other goods, including perfume

• Up to a value of €430 for air and sea travellers
• Up to a value of €300 for other travellers.

Some EU countries apply a lower limit for travellers under the age of 15, but it may not be lower than €150. https://europa.eu/!Rn93gu

There are no general restrictions on carrying meat or dairy products when travelling within the EU. However, make sure that you don’t bring foodstuffs containing meat, milk or their products into the EU from non-EU countries as they could carry dangerous pathogens that cause sickness in EU livestock, such as foot-and-mouth disease and African swine fever. The only exceptions are for those travelling with small quantities for personal consumption from Andorra, the Faroe Islands, Greenland, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, San Marino or Switzerland. https://europa.eu/!Qp39PK

Don’t forget to take a reusable bag with you when you go shopping. EU rules are helping to reduce the use of plastic bags that litter and damage the environment. Most countries charge for each bag you get when shopping.

As a consumer, you are guaranteed fair treatment, products that meet acceptable standards and a right of redress if something goes wrong, wherever you are in the EU.

Know what you are eating

You can be assured of the highest food safety standards because of strict laws on the production, processing and selling of food. Food labelling rules mean clear, comprehensive and accurate information on food content.

Know what you are buying

You are protected from a wide range of unfair commercial practices, both online and in shops. Pre-ticked boxes on websites are banned so that you do not unintentionally pay for travel insurance when buying a plane ticket online, for example.

Compare prices

The full price, including VAT and the unit price – the price per kilo or per litre – of all goods for sale must be clearly displayed. When booking accommodation or a flight online, the total price, including charges and taxes, must be visible from the start of the booking process.

Resolve any problems

The European Consumer Centres Network gives practical information on EU consumer rights, as well as free advice and assistance with cross-border complaints or disputes. For practical help and information while travelling, download the app (available in 25 languages): https://www.europe-consommateurs.eu/en/publications/ecc-net-travel-app/

Look out for the label

The EU Ecolabel can help you to identify environmentally friendly products, hotels, youth hostels or campsites.

This logo will help you find organic products.

Driving licence

A valid driving licence issued in an EU country is recognised throughout the EU and in Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.

Every new licence issued is printed on a plastic card with a standard European format. In most countries, in addition to carrying a valid driving licence you will need to have your vehicle’s registration certificate with you.

Non-EU drivers should check whether they need an international driving permit to drive in the EU countries they are visiting, in particular if they plan to visit Cyprus, Ireland, Malta and Spain.

Motor insurance

Wherever you are travelling in the EU, your compulsory car insurance policy will automatically provide cover for damage caused to third parties through a car accident (third-party liability). If you have comprehensive car insurance at home, it may extend to travelling to other countries, but you should check which countries this applies to and the period of validity before setting out.

A European accident statement form, obtained from your insurer or online, is a standard document available in several languages that makes it easier to make a declaration on the spot if you have an accident in another country.

When you travel within the EU with a third-party liability insurance policy issued in a non-EU country you may need a green card, or you may need to take up frontier insurance. Rules may differ depending on the country where the policy is issued, so check in advance.

Tolls and vignettes

Many countries charge for the use of their roads with either tolls (distance based) or ‘vignettes’ (time based). The EU monitors these charging schemes to make sure that they are proportionate and do not discriminate against non-residents or occasional users.

Driving safely

In all EU countries, seatbelts must be worn in all vehicles fitted with them. Children must have appropriate child restraints.

Using a mobile phone while driving greatly increases the risk of an accident and is forbidden in all EU countries and in Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland, unless using a hands-free set.

The maximum permitted blood alcohol content level varies between 0 mg/ml and 0.8 mg/ml, depending on the country. Drivers who speed or drink-drive can be tracked down through improved cross-border exchange of information.

Remember to drive on the left side of the road in Cyprus, Ireland and Malta and that in some countries, such as Belgium, France, the Netherlands and Portugal, you normally have to give way to traffic coming from your right.

What are the speed limits in Spain? Do I need to wear a helmet when I cycle in Sweden? For all the important road safety rules, download the free Going Abroad app: https://europa.eu/!tu98pU

Electric cars

Standardised plugs across the continent mean drivers of electric vehicles can charge their car anywhere in the EU just like they do in their home countries.

Check out the alternative fuel station map: https://europa.eu/!QrGqGg

Buses and coaches

The EU is continually improving safety standards for bus and coach passengers, for example recently introducing stricter rules on the use of fire-resistant materials in vehicles. If seatbelts are fitted in buses and coaches, it is mandatory to wear them throughout the EU.

Why not explore Europe by bicycle? EuroVelo, the European cycle route network, connects the entire continent and some of its main attractions with 17 long-distance cycle routes covering over 90,000 km. You can enjoy Europe’s towns and cities on your own bike or by using one of the many self-service bike rental schemes, some of which have been co-financed by the EU. https://en.eurovelo.com

The creation of a single European market in air transport 30 years ago has led to cheaper fares and a greater choice of carriers, routes and services for passengers.

Europe has one of the best aviation safety records in the world. To improve safety further, airlines originating from outside the EU must hold an authorisation confirming their compliance with international safety standards. In addition, their aircraft may be inspected in Europe and they will be banned from operating inside European airspace if they are found to be unsafe or not sufficiently overseen by their authorities.

Common EU rules on security checks for passengers and cabin and hold luggage apply for all flights departing from EU airports. There are restrictions on liquids that can be taken into the cabin and a common list of items that are not allowed in either cabin or hold luggage.

Rail remains one of the safest and most popular forms of transport in Europe and plays an important role in the EU’s ambitions to be climate neutral by 2050. The EU has more than 200,000 km of railways. There are around 9,000 km of high-speed lines on important routes like Paris–Brussels–Amsterdam–Cologne, Milan–Rome and Barcelona–Madrid, and more are under construction. The EU is working to boost long-distance and cross-border passenger rail services, including night trains. It aims to double high-speed rail traffic by 2030 and triple it by 2050. https://europa.eu/!Jf9BJ4

There are many key sea routes between EU ports offering regular, high-quality services as an alternative to, or in combination with, road, air or rail. There are also some 42,000 km of navigable rivers, canals and lakes.

The EU is the only area in the world where citizens are protected by a full set of passenger rights, whether they travel by plane, train, bus, coach or ship. Passengers in the EU have the right to accurate, timely and accessible information, assistance in the event of transport disruption and, in certain circumstances, compensation for cancellations or long delays.

Download the app so you can check what your rights are and how to claim them: https://europa.eu/!bg39vB

In addition, EU rules protect you when you buy package holidays or trips that combine at least two different types of travel services (such as a flight and a hotel or car rental) through the same or linked online booking site.

Before you go: You must receive clear information about your travel package (including travel destination(s), the list of services included and an emergency number). You must also be informed of your rights, for example, you have greater rights regarding cancellations or if the organiser goes bust.

When you are there: If you find yourself in difficulty during your stay you are entitled to assistance such as information on health services and consular assistance.

https://europa.eu/!pN77RY

Passengers with a disability or reduced mobility

Passengers with a disability or with reduced mobility are entitled to free assistance in airports, train stations, ports and designated coach terminals, as well as on board aircraft, trains, ships and coaches. It is advisable to notify the carrier or terminal operator of specific needs at the time of booking, when buying the ticket in advance, or at least 48 hours before travelling (36 hours when travelling by coach). https://europa.eu/!rB99XR

If you are travelling by car and have an EU disability parking card in your home country, you should be able to use the parking facilities for people with disabilities in other EU countries. Check in advance what local conditions apply in the country you are visiting. https://europa.eu/!mdQwNC

Seeking redress

If you feel that your rights have not been respected while travelling and you want to seek redress, you should file a complaint with the carrier or terminal operator or the national enforcement body for your specific mode of transport. For details of the relevant enforcement body, visit: https://europa.eu/!kNjGjM

Call the Europe Direct freephone number 00 800 6 7 8 9 10 11 for more information.

Access to healthcare

As an EU citizen, if you fall ill on a temporary visit to any EU country, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway or Switzerland, you are entitled to healthcare on the same basis as the people insured there (free in some countries).

Don’t forget to take your European health insurance card with you on your travels. The card is available for free, normally from your national health insurer, and proves you are insured in one of the countries above. If you have to pay for healthcare, you will need to keep all your bills, prescriptions and receipts so that you can apply for reimbursement in the country you are visiting or when you get home.

Find out how to apply for a card: https://europa.eu/!RFD4pB

Travel insurance

The European health insurance card is not a substitute for travel insurance, as it does not cover costs such as repatriation or mountain rescue in ski resorts. You may want to take out travel insurance to cover such risks.

A prescription from your doctor is valid in all EU countries, but you should check that the prescribed medicine is authorised for sale and is available in the country you are visiting. Make sure your prescription contains all the relevant information about you, the prescribing doctor and the prescribed product.

With e-prescriptions, it is now possible for travellers to collect medicine prescribed electronically by their doctor from a pharmacy in some EU countries, while some doctors can also access important patient information in their own language. Check to see if these services are available where you’re going: https://europa.eu/!fm96UD

Vaccination

There are, in general, no vaccination requirements when travelling in the EU. However, there are requirements or recommendations for some of the EU’s overseas territories. Check with your doctor before you go.

Bathing water

More than 95 % of the EU’s bathing water sites meet the minimum water-quality standards and almost 85 % meet the more stringent ‘excellent’ level.

Check out the interactive map to find out what the quality of the water is where you are going: https://europa.eu/!43mRgX

Mobile phones

EU subscribers can use their mobile phones while travelling in the EU just as they would at home, without paying any extra charges. In 2022, the ‘Roam-like-at-home’ rules, which also apply in Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway, were extended for another 10 years. If you plan to stay in another EU country for a few months, you may want to check your operator’s fair use policy. https://europa.eu/!xb93gf

You can also enjoy your online subscriptions to films, sports events, e-books, video games and music services without any extra charges or restrictions. https://europa.eu/!TW86Cd

Free internet access is more widely available thanks to EU-funded Wi-Fi hotspots that have been set up in thousands of local communities across Europe. You can connect for free in libraries, squares, parks and museums and other public areas where you see the WiFi4EU symbol.

Send a postcard!

Postage stamps can only be used in the country in which you buy them.

Nearly all EU countries have two-pin plugs, apart from Cyprus, Ireland and Malta, which have three-pin plugs. Make sure to pack an adapter when visiting these countries.

For ideas and information on what to see and do, have a look at the European tourist destinations website ( www.visiteurope.com ) or go to the websites of the official national tourist organisations of each EU country.

The EU promotes many cultural projects and events across Europe every year. In particular, it supports the European Capitals of Culture, an initiative which aims to highlight Europe’s rich cultural diversity.

Elefsina (Greece) Timișoara (Romania) Veszprém (Hungary) https://europa.eu/!QRvqpN

Pafos (Cyprus) and Seville (Spain) are the European Capitals of Smart Tourism for 2023. https://europa.eu/!qJFkR3

The European Commission supports EU countries in rewarding non-traditional, emerging sustainable tourism destinations in Europe through the European Destinations of Excellence award. https://europa.eu/!qNkKKP

Young travellers

Since 2018, the EU has been giving 18-year-old Europeans the chance to travel for free across Europe for up to one month and discover the continent’s rich cultural heritage. So far, more than 200,000 young Europeans have been awarded a DiscoverEU travel pass. The initiative offers young travellers the chance to connect with each other through organised meetups and take part in an exciting programme of activities. On top of their travel pass, all DiscoverEU travellers also receive a discount card and can take advantage of over 40,000 discounts on cultural events, accommodation, education, services and products in over 30 countries across Europe. https://youth.europa.eu/discovereu_en

Travelling with a dog, cat or ferret is easy with an EU pet passport, available from any vet. All dogs, cats and ferrets must have a passport and, for identification purposes, be fitted with an electronic microchip or have a clearly readable tattoo applied before July 2011. They must be vaccinated against rabies and the details entered into their pet passport. The vaccination must be carried out after the microchipping or tattooing.

Dogs must be given specific tapeworm treatment by a vet before travelling to Finland, Ireland, and Malta. Details of the treatment must appear in the pet passport and the dog can then travel between 1 and 5 days after treatment. https://europa.eu/!Dt98JB

Single European emergency number: 112

To contact the emergency services in any EU country from any phone, fixed or mobile, dial 112, free of charge.

Report any theft to the local police. You will need to enclose the police report when making your insurance or compensation claim. If your passport or ID card has been stolen, report it to your country’s consulate or embassy and to the police.

If you are outside the EU and need assistance, you can seek help from the embassy or consulate of any other EU country if yours is not represented. https://europa.eu/!YWh7M8

All over the European Union there are hundreds of Europe Direct centres. You can find the address of the centre nearest you online: https://europa.eu/european-union/contact_en

ON THE PHONE OR IN WRITING

Europe Direct is a service that answers your questions about the European Union. You can contact this service:

• by freephone: 00 800 6 7 8 9 10 11 (certain operators may charge for these calls),
• at the following standard number: +32 22999696 or
• via the following form: european-union.europa.eu/contact-eu/write-us_en

Information about the European Union in all the official languages of the EU is available on the Europa website: european-union.europa.eu

EU publications

You can view or order EU publications at op.europa.eu/en/publications . Multiple copies of free publications can be obtained by contacting Europe Direct or your local documentation centre: european-union.europa.eu/contact-eu/meet-us_en

EU law and related documents

For access to legal information from the EU, including all EU law since 1951 in all the official language versions, go to EUR-Lex: https://eur-lex.europa.eu

Open data from the EU

The portal data.europa.eu provides access to open datasets from the EU institutions, bodies and agencies. These can be downloaded and reused for free, for both commercial and non-commercial purposes. The portal also provides access to a wealth of datasets from European countries.

European Commission Directorate-General for Communication Editorial Service & Targeted Outreach 1049 Bruxelles/Brussel BELGIQUE/BELGIË

Contact: [email protected]

Manuscrit completed in April 2023.

This document should not be considered as representative of the European Commission’s official position.

Luxembourg: Publications Office of the European Union, 2023

The reuse policy of European Commission documents is implemented based on Commission Decision 2011/833/EU of 12 December 2011 on the reuse of Commission documents (OJ L 330, 14.12.2011, p. 39).

Unless otherwise noted, the reuse of this document is authorised under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International (CC-BY 4.0) licence ( https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ ). This means that reuse is allowed provided appropriate credit is given and any changes are indicated.

For any use or reproduction of elements that are not owned by the European Union, permission may need to be sought directly from the respective rightholders.

Illustrations: © European Union, © iStock

Did you find this publication useful? Let us know: [email protected]

The website ‘Your Europe’ gives more advice on your rights when you live, work and travel in the EU: ec.europa.eu/youreurope

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Europe Tours & Trips

With so many cultural experiences, it's no wonder why a European tour is top of mind for many. Step back in time when visiting London 's famous landmarks, sample the finest wines in Paris, or get lost in the alleyways of Rome . Whether you want to relax on a Danube cruise , or don your hiking boots in Iceland , there's so much to see on a tour through Europe.

250+ Europe tour packages with 83,344 reviews

• Coach / Bus

Europe Escape

This was the first time I went to Europe , overall the tour is good except I think u should add airport pick up and drop off

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Europe Jewel

This is my first tour experience and I am in no position to compare, but our team Explore Together 23 was exceptional, we easily blended together as one big family, caring for each other where needed. i had a motto of “making our dreams bigger than our memories “ to which I shared with some of our team members. Matt is a historian in his own right, giving us lectures, without notes; on the history of the Country we are about to enter into. His timing on his series was perfectly timed that sets the tone of excitement for us. Another thing worth mentioning is his professionalism and efficiency in dealing with issues that could affect our schedule. But he has also to strike the balance between the time involved in dealing with the issue and the challenge presented to arived at resolving the issue at hand. Pascal, on the other hand; is a Star, very efficient and reliable in his driving skills that puts every body at ease. His music added life to the team, keeping them entertained during the long haul. He is competent in following impromptu directions from our local tour guide, this happened because there was huge demonstrations at Budapest that time that it was required of us to changed routes. He can easily manoeuvre sharp bends and tight spots. Matt and Pascal had a great teamwork. I am convinced they can easily get a 5 ratings each.

• Christmas & New Year

The Great Adventure

The trip was great. My concern is with the tour guide Antia, one morning she wasted everybody on the buses time by waiting more than 30 minutes for a couple who was always running late. This caused a ripple effect and caused us to miss our boat tour and have to take it an hour later then consequently affecting the rest of our day. Because of this we only had 30 minutes to explore Rouen. And when we arrived to Rouen the stores were all closing. When the bus passengers asked her why they couple couldn’t just meet us at our next stop about 30 minutes away instead of causing all of us to miss our boat trip, she yelled at me on the bus in front of all other passengers. Please make sure you give your tour guides some training in basic manners.

• In-depth Cultural

The Best of Eastern Europe

The tour was great due to a large part by our tour guide Sandra. She was on top of all situations and made the extra effort to accommodate us. As stated in other reviews the hotel in Budapest is below standard due to not having ac. As it is in the night club district the street noise is extremely loud so opening the windows will not allow you to sleep.

Best of Central Europe

It was my very first Intrepid trip and I enjoyed every moment of it. It was more than I expected! I loved the chemistry of the group (I miss them dearly), the accommodation location as well as the included activities. Being in a small group also has a lot of advantages like getting to know each of them personally and build friendships even after the trip. I was just so glad I took the trip through Intrepid!

All About Balkans (4 Star Hotels)

The sights were amazing and the tour guides (both Simon Simonovic and Sofia) were excellent! The group of 42 got along perfectly. We enjoyed the diversity as we shared our adventures and experiences freely.

• €150 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Genuine Europe

Great few hiccups could've be helped

Balkan Discovery (4 Star Hotels)

All of the places we visited were amazing, but by and large the success of this tour was due to our incredible guide Voisin Munchan. To keep everyone together with patience and kindness, to enlighten us with history and humor, to always have a positive outlook, all of these abilities and so much more really my made the tour an amazing and emotionally moving experience.

Rome to Berlin: Piazzas, Prague & the Past

Great diversity of countries and cities but WAY too fast paced. One night in Slovenia and Poland was ridiculous and with travel time some days we spent less than 15 hours in the city. The guide was a but inexperienced so we didn't have a good description of some of the cities. Great way to make friends and see cities! Would recommend going end of August or later as it was still very hot going through the cities!!

Baltic Experience

We loved the whole itinerary except for the long Vilnius to Warsaw bus ride. No other way it seems ..at this point.

European Cavalcade (End Paris, 18 Days)

Mimi was great. Only thing I would change is a better break about half way through. The older people were exhausted by the end.

Britain and Ireland Delight (Summer, 8 Days)

The hotels are good and Mat is funny and knowledgably. The whole travel is well organized and interested.

Balkan Kaleidoscope

Great tour and great guide - highly recommend Penguin

Essential Britain & Ireland

Very nice itinerary ... jam packed days and evenings. I chose not to do any of the extra evening excursions that were offered so I was able to use the time to explore every overnight stop on my own. The tour guide was amazing... so full of knowledge about all the countries/areas we visited.

Tour from Athens to Dubrovnik or Split: 7 Balkan countries in 14 days

Best service, best deals

What people love about Europe Tours

Thank for MARYSOL AND SE BASTIANO a great deal I finally seen Europe a great deal, I enjoyed Interlaken Switzerland Casino as I invested £10.00 and won £300.00 Swizz Francs . I love Switzerland and France. I think it's quite too much walking for me . You should try to incorporate renting some of GOLF CARTS TOur Like me Rosita did in Florence we rented a Cart tour Cart ride and was able to a lots around Florence. I glad to made a lot of new friends specially from South Africa they are all wonderful and sweet and other countries.

Having Gustavo Gomes as a Team Leader and combination with Sebastiano as a Coach driver really made a difference in having a memorable experience our first trip in Europe.

Eva and Rene were amazing tour guides. Disappointed that we didn't see the Eiffel Tower at night. Several times we were dropped in town at night with not enough time to get a meal before being taken to the hotel. Some hotels were out of town with nothing within walking distance. Thank you to Rene for arranging for a group of us to go to the Moulin Rouge.

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Best way to travel Europe: all you need to know to plan your trip

If you are wondering what is the best way to travel Europe, in this article you will find all the useful information to plan your trip to this amazing continent

Jessica Jessy Around The World

Oct 06, 2023

Europe is one of the most beautiful continents on Earth. It has everything: great beaches , colonial and historical cities, national parks , hiking trails, and  adventure places . There is a reason why lots of travelers and backpackers choose Europe as a destination every year.

The Old continent is quite fascinating, and maybe you won’t believe it, but Europe is also the easiest continent to visit. It is so easy to move around, it is very safe, public transport works really well and there is plenty of accommodation options , for every kind of traveler and for every budget.

Now you are wondering what is the best way to travel Europe , and in this article, you will find all the information you need, from how to travel Europe on a budget , how to save money on transport and food, and even how to get free accommodation . So, keep reading until the end and get ready to pack for your trip.

What’s the best way to travel Europe? Tips and hacks for your trip 

Traveling to Europe is very easy. The continent is safe, transport is good and efficient in most of the countries, water is safe to drink and food doesn’t usually have any problems. There is plenty of accommodation, from cheap hostels to very beautiful and fancy hotels. But, even if it’s so easy, you may want to know some tips to make it easier.

For example, there are some ways to save tons of money while traveling in Europe. One of the rules is: avoid summer . I know that most people have holidays in summer, and that’s exactly why you want to avoid this period. It’s peak season, too many people around, crowds everywhere, and prices are too high.

Hostels and hotels all around Europe’s most famous cities increase prices by more than 50 percent during summer. So you will find the same hostel at a very higher price if you want to travel in that period. And you also have to plan everything, book everything, because you risk finding it full. It is quite stressful and wasteful, isn’t it?

You can avoid all of this if you travel in autumn and spring . These are the best seasons to travel in Europe. Fewer crowds, good prices, and good weather, because spring and autumn can still be very good months and the weather in Europe is still good. So, here you have one of the best ways to travel Europe: travel during low season .

Another good piece of advice is to travel light . The less you have with you, the easier it will be to move around. And it will also take less money. If you want to take planes around Europe, and you only travel with a backpack , you will find very cheap tickets.

 On the contrary, if you have big luggage with you, you will have to pay to take it. That’s how it works for example on Ryanair , the most used airline to travel around Europe. It is very cheap if you just have a backpack, but you have to pay if you have something bigger to carry. So, travel light, and even your body will be happy about it, not only your bank account.

The last very good tip is: sleep in hostels . Sleeping in hostels is the best way to travel Europe. They are so cheap, you meet a lot of people, and you can use their kitchen to cook your food. The best of the best for a traveler, especially if you travel on a budget. Going to a restaurant every day can be pricey, but supermarkets are quite ok in Europe, so cooking your food is the best choice. And sharing your meal with other travelers is even better.

Best way to find accommodation in Europe

As we said before, Europe is full of different kinds of accommodation. The most common kind among backpackers and travelers on a budget  are  hostels . They are very cheap, you can meet lots of other travelers and make friends, and you can have a kitchen at your disposal to cook your own food, which is much cheaper than going to eat in restaurants and bars all the time.

Hostels are very common even for solo travelers because you can really make friends and find travel buddies if you just want to have company during your trip. You can also listen to other travelers’ stories and learn new useful tricks and tips for your trips.

The best way to find hostels is to look on websites like Booking.com or Hostelworld , but always double-check the website of the hostel when you find one that you like because sometimes it could cost less to book directly.

Register with Worldpackers through this link and earn 2% cashback on your bookings with Booking.com ! When you are ready to become a member, choose the Plan Pack to earn 4% cashback and other benefits .

*Cashback benefit is limited to USD 200 per booking and you must log in to your Booking.com account to access Cashback.

As I mentioned before, did you know that you can get free accommodation during your trip? You just have to volunteer in the place you want to visit, work some hours per day, and in exchange, you will get a free place to sleep. This is very easy, thanks to Worldpackers .

Worldpackers is a platform in which you can look for volunteering positions all around the world. You just apply, you work the hours that the host requires (never more than 5 hours per day), and in exchange, you get free accomodation and sometimes free board . 

Europe is full of volunteering positions , if you want to have a look. This is the best way of finding accommodation, isn’t it? It’s free, you save tons of money, and you meet locals and other travelers like you. The best deal ever. You should really think about traveling Europe through volunteering  because it is definitely one of the best ways to travel Europe.

What is the best way to get around Europe?

Getting around Europe is very easy . Public transport works very well, and in some countries, you can even try van life if you prefer to have your own transportation and you like to have more freedom.

For example, Northern Europe is perfect to travel with a van. Sweden and Norway are so wild and natural countries , that the best way to explore them is by driving and sleeping wherever is allowed, with stunning views. Norway has some of the most amazing roads in the world. And sometimes camping is free, something very important in such expensive countries like northern countries.

You can have an interrail , which means that you can buy train tickets for different destinations in Europe, all together, getting huge discounts and city hopping. In this way you can visit different cities in different countries, saving money. Trains in Europe work really well and they usually link all the most beautiful cities, even in different countries.

You can even travel by bus if you like it more. Buses travel all around Europe and they link lots of cities, and they are very cheap. You can have a look at the  Flixbus website, just to give an example of a common bus service used in Europe.

Finally, if you want to be faster and you love to fly, you can use one of the low-cost companies to fly from one city to another, in Europe flights are very cheaper compared to other continents. Ryanair, Easyjet, and Wizzair are the most used companies.

Best routes to travel Europe

 It is not easy to choose the best routes in Europe, because there is so much to see and do on this continent. It really depends on your interests, your budget, and what you want to see and do. 

Southern Europe

If you love the sun and warm weather, you want to spend some time at the beach but also sightseeing some wonderful cities, you should opt to travel to the South of Europe. This area includes Italy, Greece, and Spain . You can find amazing beaches here, but also cities to explore, ancient ruins to discover, and great food to try.

Greece and Italy are well linked by plane, but you can also opt for the ferry. You can take it from the South of Italy to the island of Corfu if you have more time to spend traveling.

Italy and Spain are linked by cheap flights, or if you prefer to have a road trip and have more free time, you can take buses or drive all the coast from Italy to Spain passing by France. It is definitely an amazing route to do.

In Italy,  you can’t miss the South if you love beaches and nice cities, but if you have time, you should also reach the central areas of the country, like Tuscany, which is one of the most amazing regions.

One of the top experiences to do is to go to an agriturismo and try the delicious food. In Tuscany, there are lots of places in the middle of nature with a view of the worldwide famous hills. 

On Worldpackers, there is a volunteering position in Tuscany about helping in an agriturismo , so you could have a unique stay for free. 

In Spain,  you can explore the coast, from Costa del Sol to the other side, until the  Galicia region. It is such a long trip, but if you love beaches and small little villages, you should try this route. The coast in Spain is so beautiful and it changes a lot from one place to another. It is full of wonders to explore.

If you want to save money on accommodation and you have some skills to give to hosts, you should try to apply for volunteering positions, like this one near Cadiz which only requires help in social media management for their farm. It is a perfect way to save money and even to learn new skills that can become one day a real source of income, like a travel job . 

Central Europe

Central Europe it’s a place full of hidden gems . For example Germany , such a big country, full of nice cities and castles to discover. You would need months to explore the whole country. And a good thing about Germany is that public transport is so efficient and you can even take buses and trains to so many destinations all around Europe, in the nearby countries, like Eastern Europe countries, Denmark, or Belgium .

Germany can be a bit pricey, especially in terms of accommodation, but you can save money volunteering. There are some amazing eco projects, like this place which is a nice organic café  looking for help.

If you love cities, you should definitely add Belgium to your Central European route , because this country is small but full of wonders. It is impossible to pick the best city in Belgium, because all of them are amazing, like Bruges , Antwerp , and Bruxelles , just to name some. And in Bruges, Worldpackers has one of the best volunteering experiences ever, a beer-tasting experience ! You will save money on accommodation and you will have the time of your life. Is this the best way to travel Europe? I think it is.

Read more: Germany on a budget: a guide with the best tips and the cheapest places to visit

Northern Europe

Northern Europe is not always visited because it’s more expensive than other European destinations, but some routes up there can be done with a low budget. I am talking about the route of the Baltic Republics . These three countries have the charm of Northern Europe’s destinations without being too expensive, on the contrary, they can be very cheap.

Estonia, Lithuania, and Latvia are three beautiful countries, and they are less crowded than other destinations in Europe but totally worth visiting. And there are plenty of volunteering opportunities up there, also in the ecotourism field, like this place in Estonia , not too far from the capital Tallinn .

Now you know the best way to travel Europe , and you know that is super easy to visit this country and you can try to volunteer to save tons of money and live the best experiences during your trip. So, don’t waste another minute, pack your things, and don’t forget to subscribe to one of Worldpackers plans to enjoy your travels in the best and cheapest way!

Maybe you could find some more inspiration in other articles from Worldpackers community :

The best ways to save money while traveling

10 easy and creative ways to make money while traveling

Tips and tricks on the cheapest way to get to Europe (and travel around)

Join the community!

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Jessica Lazzarini

Jessy Around The World

an Italian full time traveler. After years planning my full time travel, I finally quit my 9 to 5 job to start exploring the world with a one way ticket. My goal is to visit as many countries as I can and to work as a digital nomad while I am traveling, but also to challenge myself doing travel jobs in the places I visit. I really want to live a lot of different experiences in a way only a real traveler can do.

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Nearly three-quarters of Europeans plan to travel this summer

Travel is set to increase across Europe this summer. Image:  Unsplash/Sai Kiran Anagani

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Stay up to date:, travel and tourism.

Listen to the article

• A new survey shows resurgent interest in travel across Europe this summer.
• COVID-19 is no longer the primary worry for travellers, with inflation and family/personal concerns having taken over.
• The World Economic Forum's latest Travel and Tourism Development Index highlights the vital economic role of tourism.

The Northern Hemisphere summer holiday season is in full swing and as pandemic-related travel restrictions are lifted a new survey shows just how many Europeans are planning to take advantage.

Ipsos, in partnership with Europ Assistance, spoke to 15,000 people across 15 countries and found that 71% of Europeans plan to travel this summer - a 14 percentage point increase on last year.

A rebound following the COVID-19 pandemic

Most of those surveyed (72%) are 'really excited' or 'happy to' travel and travel habits have continued to return to some pre-COVID-19 norms. Foreign travel, city breaks, and air travel have all gained popularity this year after pandemic-induced slumps.

Indeed, COVID-19 is no longer the primary concern for travellers this year, inflation and personal/family concerns have overtaken it.

The survey shows that the proportion of holidaymakers in Europe this year is even higher than before the pandemic.

Have you read?

Travel & tourism development index 2021: rebuilding for a sustainable and resilient future, towards resilience and sustainability: travel and tourism development recovery, what next for travel and tourism here's what the experts say, sustainable and resilient travel and tourism.

The rebound in travel numbers serves to remind us of the vital importance of the tourism industry to economies around the world, but also its vulnerability and the subsequent impact on millions of livelihoods.

The World Economic Forum's latest Travel and Tourism Development Index looks at how to build a sustainable and resilient travel and tourism (T&T) sector .

"The T&T sector is a major driver of economic development, global connectivity and the livelihood of some of the populations and businesses most vulnerable to, and hardest hit by, the pandemic," explain the report's authors.

"Supporting T&T development and recovery – which in turn will help the global recovery, build resilience and support all of those who depend on the sector for work – will be critical."

The World Economic Forum’s Platform for Shaping the Future of Mobility works across four industries: aerospace and drones; automotive and new mobility; aviation travel and tourism; and supply chain and transport. It aims to ensure that the future of mobility is safe, clean, and inclusive.

• Through the Clean Skies for Tomorrow Coalition , more than 100 companies are working together to power global aviation with 10% sustainable aviation fuel by 2030.
• In collaboration with UNICEF, the Forum developed a charter with leading shipping, airlines and logistics to support COVAX in delivering more than 1 billion COVID-19 vaccines to vulnerable communities worldwide.
• The Road Freight Zero Project and P4G-Getting to Zero Coalition have led to outcomes demonstrating the rationale, costs and opportunities for accelerating the transition to zero emission freight.
• The Medicine from the Sky initiative is using drones to deliver vaccines and medicine to remote areas in India, completing over 300 successful trials.
• The Forum’s Target True Zero initiative is working to accelerate the deployment and scaling of zero emission aviation, leveraging electric and hydrogen flight technologies.
• In collaboration with the City of Los Angeles, Federal Aviation Administration, and NASA, the Forum developed the Principles of the Urban Sky to help adopt Urban Air Mobility in cities worldwide.
• The Forum led the development of the Space Sustainability Rating to incentivize and promote a more safe and sustainable approach to space mission management and debris mitigation in orbit.
• The Circular Cars Initiative is informing the automotive circularity policy agenda, following the endorsement from European Commission and Zero Emission Vehicle Transition Council countries, and is now invited to support China’s policy roadmap.
• The Moving India network is working with policymakers to advance electric vehicle manufacturing policies, ignite adoption of zero emission road freight vehicles, and finance the transition.
• The Urban Mobility Scorecards initiative – led by the Forum’s Global New Mobility Coalition – is bringing together mobility operators and cities to benchmark the transition to sustainable urban mobility systems.

Contact us for more information on how to get involved.

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A weekly update of the most important issues driving the global agenda

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• Preplanned tours
• Daytrips out of Moscow
• Themed tours
• Customized tours
• St. Petersburg

Moscow Metro

The Moscow Metro Tour is included in most guided tours’ itineraries. Opened in 1935, under Stalin’s regime, the metro was not only meant to solve transport problems, but also was hailed as “a people’s palace”. Every station you will see during your Moscow metro tour looks like a palace room. There are bright paintings, mosaics, stained glass, bronze statues… Our Moscow metro tour includes the most impressive stations best architects and designers worked at - Ploshchad Revolutsii, Mayakovskaya, Komsomolskaya, Kievskaya, Novoslobodskaya and some others.

What is the kremlin in russia?

The guide will not only help you navigate the metro, but will also provide you with fascinating background tales for the images you see and a history of each station.

And there some stories to be told during the Moscow metro tour! The deepest station - Park Pobedy - is 84 metres under the ground with the world longest escalator of 140 meters. Parts of the so-called Metro-2, a secret strategic system of underground tunnels, was used for its construction.

During the Second World War the metro itself became a strategic asset: it was turned into the city's biggest bomb-shelter and one of the stations even became a library. 217 children were born here in 1941-1942! The metro is the most effective means of transport in the capital.

There are almost 200 stations 196 at the moment and trains run every 90 seconds! The guide of your Moscow metro tour can explain to you how to buy tickets and find your way if you plan to get around by yourself.

• Articles   >

The Moscow Metro Museum of Art: 10 Must-See Stations

There are few times one can claim having been on the subway all afternoon and loving it, but the Moscow Metro provides just that opportunity.  While many cities boast famous public transport systems—New York’s subway, London’s underground, San Salvador’s chicken buses—few warrant hours of exploration.  Moscow is different: Take one ride on the Metro, and you’ll find out that this network of railways can be so much more than point A to B drudgery.

The Metro began operating in 1935 with just thirteen stations, covering less than seven miles, but it has since grown into the world’s third busiest transit system ( Tokyo is first ), spanning about 200 miles and offering over 180 stops along the way.  The construction of the Metro began under Joseph Stalin’s command, and being one of the USSR’s most ambitious building projects, the iron-fisted leader instructed designers to create a place full of svet (radiance) and svetloe budushchee (a radiant future), a palace for the people and a tribute to the Mother nation.

Consequently, the Metro is among the most memorable attractions in Moscow.  The stations provide a unique collection of public art, comparable to anything the city’s galleries have to offer and providing a sense of the Soviet era, which is absent from the State National History Museum.  Even better, touring the Metro delivers palpable, experiential moments, which many of us don’t get standing in front of painting or a case of coins.

Though tours are available , discovering the Moscow Metro on your own provides a much more comprehensive, truer experience, something much less sterile than following a guide.  What better place is there to see the “real” Moscow than on mass transit: A few hours will expose you to characters and caricatures you’ll be hard-pressed to find dining near the Bolshoi Theater.  You become part of the attraction, hear it in the screech of the train, feel it as hurried commuters brush by: The Metro sucks you beneath the city and churns you into the mix.

With the recommendations of our born-and-bred Muscovite students, my wife Emma and I have just taken a self-guided tour of what some locals consider the top ten stations of the Moscow Metro. What most satisfied me about our Metro tour was the sense of adventure .  I loved following our route on the maps of the wagon walls as we circled the city, plotting out the course to the subsequent stops; having the weird sensation of being underground for nearly four hours; and discovering the next cavern of treasures, playing Indiana Jones for the afternoon, piecing together fragments of Russia’s mysterious history.  It’s the ultimate interactive museum.

Top Ten Stations (In order of appearance)

Kievskaya station.

Kievskaya Station went public in March of 1937, the rails between it and Park Kultury Station being the first to cross the Moscow River.  Kievskaya is full of mosaics depicting aristocratic scenes of Russian life, with great cameo appearances by Lenin, Trotsky, and Stalin.  Each work has a Cyrillic title/explanation etched in the marble beneath it; however, if your Russian is rusty, you can just appreciate seeing familiar revolutionary dates like 1905 ( the Russian Revolution ) and 1917 ( the October Revolution ).

Mayakovskaya Station

Mayakovskaya Station ranks in my top three most notable Metro stations. Mayakovskaya just feels right, done Art Deco but no sense of gaudiness or pretention.  The arches are adorned with rounded chrome piping and create feeling of being in a jukebox, but the roof’s expansive mosaics of the sky are the real showstopper.  Subjects cleverly range from looking up at a high jumper, workers atop a building, spires of Orthodox cathedrals, to nimble aircraft humming by, a fleet of prop planes spelling out CCCP in the bluest of skies.

Novoslobodskaya Station

Novoslobodskaya is the Metro’s unique stained glass station.  Each column has its own distinctive panels of colorful glass, most of them with a floral theme, some of them capturing the odd sailor, musician, artist, gardener, or stenographer in action.  The glass is framed in Art Deco metalwork, and there is the lovely aspect of discovering panels in the less frequented haunches of the hall (on the trackside, between the incoming staircases).  Novosblod is, I’ve been told, the favorite amongst out-of-town visitors.

Komsomolskaya Station

Komsomolskaya Station is one of palatial grandeur.  It seems both magnificent and obligatory, like the presidential palace of a colonial city.  The yellow ceiling has leafy, white concrete garland and a series of golden military mosaics accenting the tile mosaics of glorified Russian life.  Switching lines here, the hallway has an Alice-in-Wonderland feel, impossibly long with decorative tile walls, culminating in a very old station left in a remarkable state of disrepair, offering a really tangible glimpse behind the palace walls.

Dostoevskaya Station

Dostoevskaya is a tribute to the late, great hero of Russian literature .  The station at first glance seems bare and unimpressive, a stark marble platform without a whiff of reassembled chips of tile.  However, two columns have eerie stone inlay collages of scenes from Dostoevsky’s work, including The Idiot , The Brothers Karamazov , and Crime and Punishment.   Then, standing at the center of the platform, the marble creates a kaleidoscope of reflections.  At the entrance, there is a large, inlay portrait of the author.

Chkalovskaya Station

Chkalovskaya does space Art Deco style (yet again).  Chrome borders all.  Passageways with curvy overhangs create the illusion of walking through the belly of a chic, new-age spacecraft.  There are two (kos)mosaics, one at each end, with planetary subjects.  Transferring here brings you above ground, where some rather elaborate metalwork is on display.  By name similarity only, I’d expected Komsolskaya Station to deliver some kosmonaut décor; instead, it was Chkalovskaya that took us up to the space station.

Elektrozavodskaya Station

Elektrozavodskaya is full of marble reliefs of workers, men and women, laboring through the different stages of industry.  The superhuman figures are round with muscles, Hollywood fit, and seemingly undeterred by each Herculean task they respectively perform.  The station is chocked with brass, from hammer and sickle light fixtures to beautiful, angular framework up the innards of the columns.  The station’s art pieces are less clever or extravagant than others, but identifying the different stages of industry is entertaining.

Baumanskaya Statio

Baumanskaya Station is the only stop that wasn’t suggested by the students.  Pulling in, the network of statues was just too enticing: Out of half-circle depressions in the platform’s columns, the USSR’s proud and powerful labor force again flaunts its success.  Pilots, blacksmiths, politicians, and artists have all congregated, posing amongst more Art Deco framing.  At the far end, a massive Soviet flag dons the face of Lenin and banners for ’05, ’17, and ‘45.  Standing in front of the flag, you can play with the echoing roof.

Ploshchad Revolutsii Station

Schengen report 2024: Commission proposes recommendations for a stronger Schengen area 

On 16 April the Commission published the State of Schengen and set the priorities for the year ahead. The Schengen area has evolved into the world's largest free travel area. Guaranteeing smooth and secure travel to a population of almost 450 million people, the Schengen area is essential for the European Union's competitiveness.

In 2023, over 10 million Schengen visas were issued, and more than half a billion passengers visited the Schengen area, reaching 92% of pre-pandemic 2019 levels. This has significantly contributed to the EU economy, as tourism contributes close to 10% of the EU's GDP and provides jobs to about 22.6 million people.

The report shows that important developments were achieved in the past year, among them agreement on the legislative framework, including the Schengen Borders Code, the Pact on Migration and Asylum, the Advance Passenger Information Regulations and the Directive on Information Exchange between law enforcement authorities. The report shows that the Schengen rules are well applied, although there are some implementation gaps, for instance: a reinforced legislative framework , where work is required to put in place the new measures, including police cooperation, to phase out long-lasting internal border controls; an integrated Schengen governance framework , for which the Commission will continue to work towards more complete data analysis in close cooperation with the EU agencies and Member States. Another step was the start of admission of Bulgaria and Romania to the Schengen area by lifting controls at the internal air and sea borders on 31 March 2024.  A further Council Decision is needed for the lifting of checks at the internal land borders with Bulgaria and Romania.

The report reflects on achievements, challenges and developments in the area. This year’s State of Schengen report is also accompanied by a proposal for a Council Recommendation identifying the priority areas for the 2024-2025 Schengen cycle.

It is now for the Schengen Council which will take place in 13-14 June to discuss the 2024 Schengen report and adopt the Commission proposal for a Council Recommendation. The implementation of these recommendations will be monitored by the Council, Member States, the Commission and relevant EU Justice and Home Affairs agencies.

Find out more:

2024 State of Schengen report

Press release

Schengen Evaluations

Compendium of Best Practices identified in the framework of the Schengen evaluation and monitoring mechanism

Report on the situation at the internal borders

Proposal for a Council Recommendation for the 2024/2025 Schengen Cycle

Schengen evaluation and monitoring - European Commission (europa.eu)

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Claudia Looi

Touring the Top 10 Moscow Metro Stations

By Claudia Looi 2 Comments

Komsomolskaya metro station looks like a museum. It has vaulted ceilings and baroque decor.

Hidden underground, in the heart of Moscow, are historical and architectural treasures of Russia. These are Soviet-era creations – the metro stations of Moscow.

Our guide Maria introduced these elaborate metro stations as “the palaces for the people.” Built between 1937 and 1955, each station holds its own history and stories. Stalin had the idea of building beautiful underground spaces that the masses could enjoy. They would look like museums, art centers, concert halls, palaces and churches. Each would have a different theme. None would be alike.

The two-hour private tour was with a former Intourist tour guide named Maria. Maria lived in Moscow all her life and through the communist era of 60s to 90s. She has been a tour guide for more than 30 years. Being in her 60s, she moved rather quickly for her age. We traveled and crammed with Maria and other Muscovites on the metro to visit 10 different metro stations.

Arrow showing the direction of metro line 1 and 2

Moscow subways are very clean

To Maria, every street, metro and building told a story. I couldn’t keep up with her stories. I don’t remember most of what she said because I was just thrilled being in Moscow.   Added to that, she spilled out so many Russian words and names, which to one who can’t read Cyrillic, sounded so foreign and could be easily forgotten.

The metro tour was the first part of our all day tour of Moscow with Maria. Here are the stations we visited:

1. Komsomolskaya Metro Station  is the most beautiful of them all. Painted yellow and decorated with chandeliers, gold leaves and semi precious stones, the station looks like a stately museum. And possibly decorated like a palace. I saw Komsomolskaya first, before the rest of the stations upon arrival in Moscow by train from St. Petersburg.

2. Revolution Square Metro Station (Ploshchad Revolyutsii) has marble arches and 72 bronze sculptures designed by Alexey Dushkin. The marble arches are flanked by the bronze sculptures. If you look closely you will see passersby touching the bronze dog's nose. Legend has it that good luck comes to those who touch the dog's nose.

Touch the dog's nose for good luck. At the Revolution Square station

Revolution Square Metro Station

3. Arbatskaya Metro Station served as a shelter during the Soviet-era. It is one of the largest and the deepest metro stations in Moscow.

Arbatskaya Metro Station

4. Biblioteka Imeni Lenina Metro Station was built in 1935 and named after the Russian State Library. It is located near the library and has a big mosaic portrait of Lenin and yellow ceramic tiles on the track walls.

Lenin's portrait at the Biblioteka Imeni Lenina Metro Station

5. Kievskaya Metro Station was one of the first to be completed in Moscow. Named after the capital city of Ukraine by Kiev-born, Nikita Khruschev, Stalin's successor.

Kievskaya Metro Station

6. Novoslobodskaya Metro Station  was built in 1952. It has 32 stained glass murals with brass borders.

Novoslobodskaya metro station

7. Kurskaya Metro Station was one of the first few to be built in Moscow in 1938. It has ceiling panels and artwork showing Soviet leadership, Soviet lifestyle and political power. It has a dome with patriotic slogans decorated with red stars representing the Soviet's World War II Hall of Fame. Kurskaya Metro Station is a must-visit station in Moscow.

Ceiling panel and artworks at Kurskaya Metro Station

8. Mayakovskaya Metro Station built in 1938. It was named after Russian poet Vladmir Mayakovsky. This is one of the most beautiful metro stations in the world with 34 mosaics painted by Alexander Deyneka.

Mayakovskaya station

One of the over 30 ceiling mosaics in Mayakovskaya metro station

9. Belorusskaya Metro Station is named after the people of Belarus. In the picture below, there are statues of 3 members of the Partisan Resistance in Belarus during World War II. The statues were sculpted by Sergei Orlov, S. Rabinovich and I. Slonim.

10. Teatralnaya Metro Station (Theatre Metro Station) is located near the Bolshoi Theatre.

Teatralnaya Metro Station decorated with porcelain figures .

Taking the metro's escalator at the end of the tour with Maria the tour guide.

Have you visited the Moscow Metro? Leave your comment below.

January 15, 2017 at 8:17 am

An excellent read! Thanks for much for sharing the Russian metro system with us. We're heading to Moscow in April and exploring the metro stations were on our list and after reading your post, I'm even more excited to go visit them. Thanks again 🙂

December 6, 2017 at 10:45 pm

Hi, do you remember which tour company you contacted for this tour?

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