With its world-famous landmarks, rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty and mouthwatering cuisines, Europe has been the most sought-after destination for first-time travellers. As iconic as the continent is, the sheer diversity across Europe can seem daunting to navigate for someone visiting for the first time.
This travel guide covers everything you need to know—from planning your dream itinerary, getting around, managing your budget, where to stay, and things you absolutely cannot miss—to make your maiden Eurotrip smooth and memorable.
Crafting the Perfect Europe Itinerary
With 50 different countries, a common challenge most first-timers face is deciding where to go in Europe.
Here are some tips on crafting a balanced itinerary that lets you experience the best of Europe:
Focus on Region Over Countries
Instead of covering too many scattered countries, plan your route through a region to minimise travel time. Popular areas for first-timers include:
- Western Europe: France, Belgium, Netherlands, Germany
- Mediterranean Europe: Spain, Portugal, Italy, Greece
- Central & Eastern Europe: Austria, Hungary, Czechia, Poland
- Scandinavian Europe: Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark
- British Isles: England, Scotland, Wales, Ireland
Many travel agencies provide customised Europe tour packages that include the must-visit destinations while ensuring seamless travel and stay.
Must-see Destinations
Some of the places you cannot miss out as a first-timer are:
- England: See London’s iconic sights and visit Shakespeare’s hometown, Stratford-upon-Avon, and the magical Stonehenge.
- France: Fall in love with Paris, tour gorgeous castles in Loire Valley, and stroll amidst lavender fields in Provence.
- Italy: Lose yourself in history and art in Rome, be romanced by Venice canals, and enjoy scenic Tuscan towns.
- Greece: Soak in perfect island vibes in Santorini and witness ancient history in Acropolis, Athens.
- Spain: Party at Barcelona’s beach bars, get lost in medieval towns like Toledo and Segovia, or tour Moorish palaces in Andalusia.
- Switzerland: Be amazed by the Alpine meadows and towns like Interlaken and Lucerne.
Getting Around Europe
Europe’s well-connected transportation network makes getting around highly convenient for travellers.
- By flight: Europe has many affordable airlines that connect different countries quickly and affordably. Book tickets well in advance for the best fares.
- Train travel: Fast and reliable trains connect most major cities in Europe, making it one of the best ways to travel through the countryside and enjoy the scenery. For a premium experience, many Switzerland tour packages include scenic rides like the Glacier Express or Bernina Express, offering breathtaking views of Alpine landscapes.
- Buses: The most economical medium of transportation for budget travellers. They are best for shorter distances not covered by train routes.
- Rental cars: Allow you to explore offbeat towns and countryside at your own pace. Get an international driving permit (IDP) and check regulations per country.
- City transit: Excellent public transport network with metro, trams, and buses. Buy local transit passes for unlimited travel.
- Ferries: Cruise between port cities and visit offshore islands—Prebook tickets during peak seasons.
Top 10 Things to Do in Europe
Here are the must-have experiences for first-timers in Europe:
- Be awestruck at iconic landmarks: The Eiffel Tower, Roman Colosseum, Stonehenge, Neuschwanstein Castle, and more.
- Indulge in food and drink adventures: Try local and regional specialities like pasta and gelato in Italy, Belgian waffles and beer, and Swiss cheese and chocolate.
- Lose yourself in world-class museums and galleries: Musée du Louvre, Paris. Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam. Uffizi Gallery, Florence.
- Discover historic monuments and UNESCO Sites, such as the Acropolis in Athens, Pompeii ruins in Italy, and Alhambra Palace in Spain.
- Explore charming coastal towns and beaches, such as Cinque Terre and the Amalfi Coast in Italy, Azure Coves in Greece, and Costa Brava in Spain.
- Be mesmerised by natural landscapes: Norwegian Fjords, Scottish Highlands, and Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia.
- Take a scenic rail journey: the Glacier Express and Bernina Express trains in Switzerland or the West Highland Line in Scotland.
- Party at vibrant festivals: La Tomatina in Spain, Oktoberfest in Germany, and Carnival in Venice.
- Absorb captivating architecture: Gothic cathedrals, medieval castles, Ottoman mosques, art nouveau buildings and more.
- Slow down to enjoy local village/city life: laze in Amsterdam’s canalside cafés, taste wine in Tuscany vineyards, and enjoy Christmas markets.
Remember to mix iconic sightseeing with local discoveries for the best European experience.
Best Time to Visit Europe
Due to its diverse climates across regions, Europe offers something unique every season.
- Spring (March to mid-June) is pleasant, with fewer crowds and lower prices for hotels and flights before peak summer tourist season kicks in. Witness tulips blooming in the Netherlands and lavender in Provence.
- Summer (mid-June to early September) brings the best weather with long sunny days, though popular destinations get crowded and expensive. It is perfect for outdoor adventures and island hopping in Greece and Scandinavia.
- Fall (early September to October) offers cooler weather again, fall foliage hues and fun harvest season vibes with fewer tourists. Enjoy Oktoberfest in Germany or wine harvest festivals in France and Italy.
- Winter (November to February) transforms many places with Christmas markets and snowy Alpine peaks, though daylight hours are shorter and many attractions have limited operations. It is best for ski lovers.
Where to Stay in Europe
With abundant accommodation options, you can find places matching every budget and need.
1. Hotels
European hotels cater to all budgets and styles, from no-frills to lavish luxury. Book well in advance for popular seasons for the best rates and availability. Check locations near city centres or transport hubs.
2. Homestays
For an authentic cultural experience, stay with a local host family and experience their lifestyle first-hand. You may get a private room or share a dorm with other travellers. This option is ideal for solo women travellers.
3. Hostels
Offer dorm-style shared rooms with bunk beds and common bathrooms, popular among student travellers and backpackers. Meet fellow travellers and enjoy group activities. Some hostels offer private rooms, too.
4. Vacation Rentals/Apartments
Choose from cosy holiday cottages in the countryside to chic apartments in a city. These apartments offer amenities like a kitchen where you can self-cater meals, making them cost-effective for longer stays.
5. Camping
For adventurous souls, camping under the stars in tents at thousands of campgrounds is ideal for experiencing the pastoral countryside.
Conclusion
Exploring Europe at your own pace lets you discover it intimately and create lasting travel memories. Pack your sense of adventure, immerse yourself in local experiences, feast on the sights, sounds, and flavours, and reconnect with this culturally rich continent.