Europe has to be one of the most popular vacation destinations in the world. From historical architecture to countless cultural experiences, there really isn’t anything else that a traveler could want out of a trip to Europe.
That being said, with so much to explore, it can be tough to know exactly where to begin when it comes to planning your European adventure. Here is a brief guide to help you get started on making preparations to see all that Europe has to offer.
Plan Ahead
When it comes to international travel, planning as far in advance as possible will give you your best chance at finding the right flights, train tickets, and accommodation. Think of your trip to Europe as a puzzle of dates, locations, and sights that you want to see. You have to align the things you want to see with how and when you will be able to get there.
If you find yourself getting overwhelmed with everything you need to do when it comes to planning your getaway, you might consider checking out some Europe tour packages that have already been designed and planned out for you. An added bonus of opting for a tour package is that the experts who design these packages have connections in various destinations, so more often than not, they are able to negotiate cheaper travel and accommodation on your behalf.
Pack Light
If you are looking to visit several European towns throughout the course of your trip, then it is best for you to travel light. This isn’t always an easy task for some people, as it can be difficult to think about living without your full closet at your disposal for weeks at a time. Nevertheless, you will thank yourself later for not bringing along massive suitcases that you have to haul from flight to train and back again. When it comes to packing light, there is definitely some skill involved in the process. For some professional tips on how to successfully do this, check out this guide with advice from flight attendants.
Don’t Be Sucked in By Tourist Traps
There’s no doubt about it, some tourist attractions in Europe are famous for good reason. For instance, the Eiffel Tower in Paris and Big Ben in London draw thousands of travelers each year because of the astounding architecture and breathless views. That being said, there are some tourist traps that are best avoided and really not worth the hassle. By avoiding tourist traps and instead opting for more locally recommended attractions in historic European cities, you will be doing yourself a big favor. The more touristy spots will be crowded with people, all clamoring to get a look at whatever the attraction is and will make you more stressed.
Furthermore, because those in charge of various historical sights know that they can expect these large crowds, they generally charge way more for the experience than it is really worth. Stick to what the locals recommend and save some time and money.