Europe Travel Guide
Historic capitals, alpine escapes and Mediterranean coastline, how to plan a smooth trip across Europe.
Don’t miss
- The Colosseum & Roman Forum, Italy
- Santorini and the Greek islands
- The Louvre and Eiffel Tower, Paris
- Sagrada Família, Barcelona
- Swiss Alps rail journeys
- Amsterdam’s canal district
Recommended hotels
- Canaves Oia, Santorini
- The Ritz, London
- Hotel Danieli, Venice
- Hotel Sacher, Vienna
Getting around
High-speed rail connects most major cities quickly; budget carriers cover the rest, a rail pass can be worthwhile for multi-country trips.
Safety tips
Europe is generally low-risk for travelers; standard precautions apply in busy tourist areas prone to pickpocketing.
Best time to visit
May–June and September–October offer good weather with smaller crowds than peak summer.
Budget advice
Western Europe runs pricier than Eastern and Southern Europe, mix regions to balance a multi-country itinerary.
Visa requirements
Requirements vary by nationality and by country. Many non-EU visitors can enter the Schengen area visa-free for short stays, though rules differ for the UK and for longer trips. Confirm current requirements with the relevant embassy or consulate before booking.
Currency & payments
The euro is used across most of the Eurozone; the UK uses pounds sterling and Switzerland uses Swiss francs. Cards are widely accepted, but small cash amounts are useful for markets and rural areas.