How to Plan for a Trip to Europe: Budget Tips, Itineraries & First-Time Advice
From smart budgeting to choosing destinations and booking tips, learn how to plan for a trip to Europe with ease - even if it’s your first time abroad.
This post might have affiliate links. By purchasing anything through our links, you will be helping support us, at no extra cost to you.
Read our statement
Planning your first trip to Europe? Whether you're dreaming of strolling along the canals in Amsterdam, sipping an espresso in a Roman piazza or hopping from castle to castle in Germany, one thing’s for sure: Europe has something for everyone. But before you zip up your suitcase and head to the airport, reserve a little time for planning is a must.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to plan a smooth, memorable and budget-friendly trip to Europe. Whether you're traveling for one week, two weeks or an entire month, we’ve got practical advice and money-saving tips to help you make the most of every moment.
Where to Go in Europe: Choosing the Right Destinations
With over 40 countries to choose from, picking where to go in Europe can feel like standing in front of the world’s most delicious buffet: everything looks amazing, but you can’t try it all at once. So how do you choose where to go without getting overwhelmed by the sheer amount of options?
Here are a few smart ways to narrow things down.
Think About the Season
Europe changes dramatically with the seasons, so your destination choice should match the kind of experience you’re after:
- Spring (March - May) - great for city breaks, blooming countryside and fewer crowds. Perfect for places like Paris, Amsterdam or the Tuscan countryside.
- Summer (June - August) - the most popular (and crowded) time to travel. Beach destinations like Greece, southern Spain or the Amalfi Coast shine, but prices are very high.
- Fall (September -November) - fewer tourists, lovely colors and wine harvests! Ideal for cities like Prague, Vienna or Bordeaux.
- Winter (December - February) - perfect for Christmas markets, snow-covered towns or skiing. Think to Salzburg, Tallinn or the Dolomites in Italy.
Match Destinations to Your Interests
Ask yourself: what kind of trip do you want?
- Love art, history and architecture? Go for cultural cities like Rome, Florence, Paris or Vienna.
- Craving nature and adventure? The Swiss Alps, Scottish Highlands or Slovenian lakes are the perfect choice.
- Really like nightlife and fun? You’ll love Berlin, Barcelona or Budapest.
- Need a relaxing escape? Head to southern France, the Greek islands or a slow-paced Italian village.
You don’t have to stick to one theme - mixing a few different vibes (like art + nature or city + beach) keeps the trip exciting and balanced.
Let Your Budget Guide You (a Bit)
Some parts of Europe are simply more affordable than others:
- Budget-friendly - Poland, Hungary, Portugal, Greece and most of the Balkans
- Mid-range - Spain, Italy, Czech Republic, Germany
- High-cost - Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Sweden
A night in Zurich can easily cost three times more than a night in Kraków and the kebab in Berlin will always beat the price of a meal in Oslo.
Mini Regional Guide: What to Expect by Area
Not sure which part of Europe to explore first? Each region has its own vibe, price range and types of experiences. Here’s a quick overview to help you match your travel goals with the right area.
🇮🇹 Southern Europe (Italy, Spain, Portugal, Greece)
Southern Europe is warm, vibrant and packed with everything you'd expect from a dream European getaway. From cobbled streets and Roman ruins to tapas bars and golden sunsets by the sea, it’s the perfect region for first-time travelers looking for charm, culture and unforgettable food.
- Perfect for: beach lovers, foodies, history fans
- Budget: € - €€
🇩🇪 Central Europe (Germany, Austria, Czechia, Hungary)
A mix of medieval towns, imperial cities and beer gardens. Cities are well-connected by train, making this region ideal for multi-city trips.
- Perfect for: culture seekers, train travelers, Christmas markets
- Budget: €€ (but Prague and Budapest are great value!)
🇸🇪 Northern Europe (Sweden, Norway, Finland, Denmark, Baltics)
Think modern design, dramatic landscapes and super-efficient public transport. Prices are higher here, but the organization and cleanliness are at the next level.
- Perfect for: nature lovers, fans of clean cities and Scandinavian vibes
- Budget: €€€ - €€€€
Where to Stay in Europe (and How to Save on It)
When it comes to booking your stay, using the right platform can save you time, stress and money.
Here are a few of the best:
- Booking.com – Probably the most popular site for European travel. It offers tons of options, real reviews and flexible cancellation on many properties.
- Expedia – Great for package deals (flight + hotel), especially if you’re booking a roundtrip. Sometimes you'll find exclusive discounts here that don’t show up elsewhere.
- Airbnb – Ideal for longer stays or if you want to cook your own meals and live like a local. It’s also great for groups or families.
- Hostelworld – Best for finding hostels in major cities and smaller towns. It gives you a solid idea of the vibe and cleanliness of each spot.
When to Book (and How to Stay Flexible)
Timing is everything: booking early (especially for peak seasons like summer or Christmas) often means better prices and more availability. If you're planning to travel between May and September, it's smart to book at least 1 - 3 months in advance.
Still figuring things out? Choose options with free cancellation: many listings on Booking.com or Expedia let you change your mind later without penalty.
This strategy gives you flexibility and peace of mind: you’ll have something booked, but you can swap it out if you'll find something better or your plans change.
Save More by Choosing the Right Location
You don’t need to sleep next to the Eiffel Tower to enjoy Paris. In fact, staying just outside the historic center can cut your costs significantly and often give you a more local, authentic experience.
Here’s what to look for:
- Good public transport nearby (metro, tram or bus)
- Safe, walkable neighborhoods
- A commute of 20–30 minutes or less to major sights
Examples? In Rome, try staying near San Giovanni instead of the Colosseum. In Barcelona, Poble Sec or Gràcia offer charm without the tourist prices.
This little tweak in location can easily save you €20 - 50 per night, money you can spend on great food, museum passes or a guided tour instead.
Getting Around: Trains, Flights, Buses & Rental Cars
Europe has one of the most connected and efficient transport networks in the world, but that doesn’t mean it’s always simple to choose the best option. Should you hop on a high-speed train, catch a cheap flight, take the scenic bus route or rent a car and hit the road?
Trains vs Buses vs Flights: What’s Best?
- Trains are often the most comfortable and scenic way to travel, especially in countries like France, Germany, Italy and Switzerland. You avoid airport lines, arrive in the city center and enjoy wide seats with great views. But tickets can be pricey if booked last-minute.
- Buses are usually the cheapest option, with companies like FlixBus and BlaBlaCar Bus offering routes between major cities and smaller towns. Expect slower travel times, but if you're flexible and on a tight budget, buses can save you a lot.
- Flights make sense for long distances (like Paris to Athens) and budget airlines like Ryanair and Wizz Air can be surprisingly cheap. Just keep an eye on baggage fees and secondary airports, which are sometimes far from the city center.
Top Tools to Plan Your Route
- Omio: Great for comparing trains, buses and flights in one place. Super useful if you're still weighing your options.
- Trainline: Ideal for booking trains across Europe, especially in the UK, France, Spain and Italy. Easy interface and often cheaper than national rail sites.
- Rome2Rio: A traveler’s best friend! Type in any two places and it shows you every possible way to get from A to B - with estimated prices and times.
Use these platforms to plan, then double-check with the official transport site before booking. Sometimes national websites offer promos or cheaper fares.
Should You Get a Eurail or Interrail Pass?
These passes offer flexible travel across multiple countries: Eurail for non-Europeans and Interrail for European residents. They're perfect for slow travelers or spontaneous adventurers.
But… they’re not always the cheapest option.
A rail pass is worth it if:
- You plan to visit 3+ countries in a short time
- You’re traveling long distances (e.g., Amsterdam → Vienna → Venice)
- You value flexibility and don’t want to commit to exact travel dates
It might be less cost-effective if:
- You're only visiting 1 - 2 countries
- You can book individual tickets in advance (which are usually cheaper)
- You want to include flights or buses in your itinerary
Renting a Car in Europe: When It Makes Sense
A rental car can be a great choice if you’re exploring rural regions, like the French countryside, the Dolomites or the Irish coast. You get full freedom to stop wherever you like and access places not served by public transport.
But there are some hidden costs to watch for:
- Drop-off fees for returning the car in a different city or country
- Tolls and fuel (some countries, like Italy and France, have pricey highways)
- Parking fees, especially in big cities
- Insurance extras and coverage limits
Avoid renting a car inside major cities. It’s stressful, unnecessary, and parking is a nightmare. Pick it up when you'll leave the town.
Must-See Attractions and How to Book Smart
Europe is home to some of the most iconic landmarks on the planet: from the Eiffel Tower to the Colosseum, from Gaudí’s masterpieces in Barcelona to the canals of Amsterdam. But with popularity comes one big thing: crowds. That’s why booking smart can seriously upgrade your trip, saving you time, stress and sometimes even money.
Book Online and Skip the Lines
Whenever possible, book your tickets in advance. Many top attractions sell out quickly, especially in high season. Sites like the Louvre, the Vatican Museums, the Alhambra and the Anne Frank House often require advance booking, even for a basic entry.
Also, look out for skip-the-line options, especially if you're visiting during summer or on weekends. Spending 30 minutes more inside a museum instead of sweating in a line? Totally worth it.
Some platforms to use:
- GetYourGuide
- Tiqets
- Official museum or attraction websites
Many tickets have timed entries. Set calendar reminders so you’re not late - some places won’t let you in if you miss your slot.
Here's when to plan early:
| Attraction | Book How Early |
|---|---|
| The Louvre (Paris) | 1 - 2 weeks ahead |
| The Vatican Museums (Rome) | 2 - 3 weeks ahead |
| The Last Supper (Milan) | 1 - 3 months ahead (!) |
| Alhambra (Granada) | 1 - 2 months ahead |
| Anne Frank House (Amsterdam) | Exactly 6 weeks ahead |
| Eiffel Tower (Paris) | 2 - 4 weeks ahead |
Spontaneous traveler? Try early morning walk-ins or check for late-release time slots online: some places reserve spots for same-day sales.
Consider a City Pass (It Can Pay Off Fast)
City cards can be a smart investment if you’re planning to hit several attractions in one city. They often include:
- Free or discounted entry to major sights
- Unlimited public transport
- Skip-the-line access
- Optional extras like guided tours or boat rides
Popular examples:
Top Must-Sees by Destination (Just a Taste)
Here are a few unmissable experiences in some of Europe’s most popular cities:
- Rome: Colosseum + Roman Forum, Vatican Museums + St. Peter’s Basilica, Trevi Fountain
- Paris: Louvre, Eiffel Tower, Musée d’Orsay, Montmartre, Seine river cruise
- Barcelona: Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, Gothic Quarter, Casa Batlló
- Amsterdam: Rijksmuseum, Anne Frank House, Van Gogh Museum, canal tour
- London: Tower of London, British Museum, Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey
- Prague: Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, Old Town Square, Astronomical Clock
- Berlin: Berlin Wall Memorial, Pergamon Museum, Brandenburg Gate, East Side Gallery
- Milan: The Last Supper, Milan Cathedral (Duomo), Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Sforza Castle
First-Time Travel Tips You Can’t Miss
Planning your very first trip to Europe? Get ready for a life-changing adventure! But before you start dreaming about croissants in Paris or gondolas in Venice, there are a few practical things to sort out.
Check Your Passport and Entry Documents
Before anything else, take a look at your passport expiration date. Most European countries require that your passport be valid for at least 6 months after your travel dates: so don’t leave this to the last minute!
Starting in 2025, travelers from many visa-free countries (including the US, UK, Canada, Australia) will also need an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) approval. It’s not a visa, but a quick online form with a small fee and you’ll need to apply before your trip.
And don’t forget travel insurance. It’s optional, but smart, especially if you’re traveling to multiple countries or planning outdoor activities. Look for plans that cover:
- Trip cancellation
- Lost luggage
- Medical emergencies abroad
Stay Connected with a SIM or eSIM
Having mobile data in Europe is super helpful: whether you're navigating the metro, looking up opening hours or translating a menu on the go.
You’ve got two easy options:
- Buy a European SIM card (physical), you can grab one at the airport, a local shop or even online before your trip.
- Get an eSIM, apps like Saily and Airalo let you activate a data plan digitally, so you’re connected as soon as you land - no need to swap your physical SIM card.
Payments, Currency and What to Expect
Europe is mostly cashless, especially in cities. Credit and debit cards (Visa & Mastercard) are widely accepted. But there are still a few things to keep in mind:
- Always choose to be charged in local currency at card machines (it avoids bad conversion rates)
- Carry a small amount of cash for markets, small shops or rural areas
- ATMs are everywhere, but try to use ones at actual banks to avoid high fees
- American Express is hit-or-miss and Discover is rarely accepted
Don’t Forget a Travel Adapter
Europe uses different plugs and voltage from many other countries: typically Type C or Type E/F outlets, with 220V current.
You’ll need a universal adapter and maybe even a voltage converter if you’re bringing high-voltage appliances like hair dryers (but honestly, best to leave those at home and use the one in your hotel).
Bring at least 2 adapters - one for your phone and one for other devices like a camera, tablet, or e-reader.
What to Pack for Europe (Without Overpacking)
Whether you're heading out for a week or a month, the golden rule is simple: pack light, pack smart.
Here’s your base list:
- 3 - 4 versatile tops (neutral colors mix and match easily)
- 2 - 3 bottoms (jeans, travel pants, or comfy skirts)
- 1 lightweight sweater or hoodie
- 1 compact rain jacket or windbreaker
- 1 - 2 pairs of shoes (comfy sneakers + something a bit dressy)
- Enough underwear & socks for 5 - 7 days
- Basic toiletries (travel-size to save space)
- Sleepwear, swimsuit (yes, even in winter - many places have spas!)
- A foldable tote or daypack for daily use
- A scarf or pashmina (multi-use, from warmth to temple visits)
In winter, add:
- A warm coat
- Gloves, hat and thermal layers
- Waterproof shoes or boots
In summer, add:
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- Breathable clothes and a refillable water bottle
- A sunhat or cap
Final Advice for an Amazing (and Stress-Free) Europe Trip
Planning a trip to Europe is exciting, and yes: it takes a bit of work. But once you’ve mapped out your route, set your budget and packed your bag, the real magic begins. You don’t need to see everything or follow your itinerary to the letter: the best moments often happen when you least expect them.
So here’s the golden rule: do less, enjoy more. Give yourself space to slow down, to savor a pastry at a quiet café, to take that unplanned detour or to spend an afternoon watching the world go by from a park bench.
Whether it's your first time or your fifth, Europe will always surprise you. So get out there and make it yours.
We are a Milan-based Travel Blog that aims to be your ultimate guide to the best attractions, food and drink, and things to do to inspire you when planning your holiday!
Do check out our website regularly for awesome travel and expat tips!
