5 Best Travel Tips When Visiting Europe
Europe is a destination that many travellers flock to each year from all over the globe. It’s a continent steeped in history and culture, from pristine sandy beaches to historical sites, so there is truly something for everyone. Whether you’re heading to Italy to see some of the most spectacular works of art, Germany for a city break, or Greece to see the ancient ruins, there are a few tips to consider when preparing for your holiday. Here are 5 tips for visiting Europe to get the most out of your visit.
1. Plan ahead
When travelling to Europe, there are so many things to see and do, which is why it’s advantageous to plan ahead. The best place to start is taking out travel insurance and applying for a new EHIC card – the GHIC. This is essential in case you need medical assistance when you’re away.
You’ll also need to research the continent. Once you’ve chosen your destination, whether you’re travelling to one area and staying there, or you’re visiting a few, you can then start to plan your trip in more detail. Start with how you’re going to get there. If you’re flying, compare flight times and prices online to get the best deal. You should also think about where you’re going to stay – think about how far away it is from the airport and how you’re going to get there when you land. As well as this, you should think about how close your accommodation is to the areas you’d like to visit. You’ll need your accommodation to act as a base for your trip, so plan ahead to make sure it’s not too far from the places you’d like to see.
There are a few other things to think about when planning ahead, like the customs and currency of the country you’re visiting, the documents you’ll need, and any insurance to ensure you’re protected whilst abroad.
2. Pack light
It can be tempting to pack for every eventuality, and whilst it pays to be prepared, it also pays to pack light. This can be helpful when it comes to baggage allowance, as some airlines will charge for heavier luggage. To help you pack light, think about your essentials, things that you can’t be without. If you struggle to fit everything you need into your case, you can roll your clothes instead of folding them or use packing cubes to help you organise your luggage. If you’re travelling for a while, consider doing laundry whilst you’re there, this will save you having to take a change of clothes for each day.
3. Use public transport
When travelling in Europe, using public transport comes with a range of benefits. Firstly, it’s incredibly cost-effective. It can be tempting to get taxis instead of working out the bus or train systems for example, but this will cost you. Using public transport abroad will allow you to get from place to place efficiently, and in a way that can save you some money. Buses and trains are frequent, which means you can see the sights with ease.
4. Learn the language
Another great way of getting the most out of your trip to Europe is to learn the language. You don’t have to speak fluent Spanish for example, but learning a few words and phrases can be helpful, and means you’ll be able to immerse yourself in the culture of your chosen destination. It can be helpful when getting from A to B, or in an emergency. Familiarising yourself with words and phrases can enrich your experience.
5. Gather documents
When heading off to visit Europe, it’s essential that you gather your documents before you go. This means printing any boarding passes or accommodation confirmations, travel insurance documents if you have them, as well as your GHIC and passport. Make a list of essential documents you need for your trip to go smoothly and keep them together – buying a file to keep them organised could be advantageous so you know where they are at all times. This can be helpful when it comes to ensuring you have everything you need to enjoy your trip safely.
