I still remember my first European trip - I overpacked, got scammed in Paris, missed trains, and paid way too much for everything. After 30+ trips to Europe, here are the 25 things I wish someone had told me before my first visit.
Before You Go
1. Understand the Schengen Area
27 European countries share a common visa policy. US citizens get 90 days in any 180-day period across ALL Schengen countries combined. Days in France count toward your Spain limit. Use our Visa Checker to verify requirements.
2. Book Flights to Secondary Cities
Flying into Paris costs $200 more than flying into Brussels (2 hours away by train). Same with London vs Amsterdam, Rome vs Milan. Be flexible with your arrival city.
3. Get the Right Power Adapter
Europe uses Type C plugs (two round pins) with 220V. Your US devices will fit but check voltage compatibility. Use our Plug Type Checker for specifics.
4. Notify Your Bank
Set a travel notice or your card will be declined. Better yet, get a card with no foreign transaction fees (Chase Sapphire, Capital One Venture).
5. Download Offline Maps
Google Maps lets you download entire cities for offline use. Do this before you leave. Also get an eSIM for data - check our eSIM Comparison Tool.
Transportation
6. Trains > Flights for Short Distances
For trips under 4 hours, trains are faster when you factor in airport time. Paris to Amsterdam: 3h15m by train vs 5+ hours total by plane.
7. Book Train Tickets in Advance
High-speed trains (TGV, ICE, Eurostar) are 50-70% cheaper when booked 2-3 months ahead. Last-minute tickets are expensive.
8. Budget Airlines Have Hidden Fees
That €9.99 Ryanair flight becomes €60 after baggage fees, seat selection, and airport transfers. Read the fine print.
9. Use Rome2Rio for Route Planning
Shows all transport options (train, bus, plane) with prices and times. Way better than googling each option separately.
10. Get a Rechargeable Transit Card
Most cities have them (Oyster in London, Navigo in Paris). Cheaper than single tickets and you can recharge as needed.
Money
11. Always Pay in Local Currency
When asked "charge in USD or EUR?", always choose EUR. "Dynamic currency conversion" is a scam with terrible exchange rates.
12. ATMs > Currency Exchange
Airport currency exchanges charge 10-15% markup. Use bank ATMs instead. Avoid Euronet ATMs (yellow machines) - they have high fees.
13. Tipping is Different
Service is included in most European countries. Round up or leave 5-10% for exceptional service. No need for 20% like in the US.
14. Free Water Isn't Standard
Restaurants charge for water (€3-5 per bottle). Ask for "tap water" (free in most countries) or bring a refillable bottle.
Accommodation
15. Location > Amenities
Pay more to stay central. A €20 cheaper hotel 10km out costs €15+ daily in transport and wastes 2 hours commuting.
16. Airbnb Isn't Always Cheaper
After cleaning fees and service charges, hotels are often the same price or cheaper. Plus hotels have daily cleaning and breakfast.
17. Check Elevator Availability
Many European buildings don't have elevators. If you have heavy luggage, confirm before booking.
Culture & Etiquette
18. Learn Basic Phrases
"Hello", "please", "thank you", and "sorry" in the local language go a long way. People appreciate the effort.
19. Shops Close on Sundays
Especially in Germany and France. Grocery shop on Saturday. Restaurants stay open.
20. Dinner is Late
In Spain and Italy, dinner starts at 9-10pm. Restaurants opening at 6pm are tourist traps.
21. Public Restrooms Cost Money
€0.50-1.00 to use public toilets. Keep coins handy. McDonald's and Starbucks have free restrooms.
Safety & Scams
22. Watch for Pickpockets
Especially in Paris, Barcelona, Rome, and Prague. Keep valuables in front pockets, use anti-theft bags, stay alert on public transport.
23. Common Scams to Avoid
- Friendship bracelets (someone ties it on your wrist then demands payment)
- Petition signers (distraction for pickpockets)
- Taxi drivers who "don't have change"
- Restaurants without prices on menus
Practical Tips
24. Pack Light
Cobblestone streets and stairs everywhere. Carry-on only is ideal. Check our minimalist packing guide.
25. Don't Try to See Everything
First-timers try to cram 10 countries in 2 weeks. You'll spend more time in transit than actually experiencing places. Pick 2-3 countries max.
Recommended First-Timer Itinerary
For a 2-week trip, I recommend:
- Option 1: London (4 days) → Paris (4 days) → Amsterdam (3 days) → Brussels (2 days)
- Option 2: Rome (4 days) → Florence (3 days) → Venice (2 days) → Milan (2 days)
- Option 3: Barcelona (4 days) → Madrid (3 days) → Seville (3 days) → Granada (2 days)
All connected by easy trains. No flights needed.
Final Thoughts
Europe is incredibly accessible for first-time travelers. The infrastructure is excellent, English is widely spoken in tourist areas, and it's generally very safe. Don't stress too much - half the fun is figuring things out as you go.
Just remember: slow down, pack light, book trains in advance, and always choose local currency. You'll have an amazing trip.