All Things Travel Podcast

Europe Travel Tips: Essential Guide for First-Time Visitors


Listen Later

From packing strategies to cultural etiquette, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know for a magical European adventure.

1. Packing Light and Smart

  • Pack less than you think - You'll be navigating cobblestones, stairs, and trains
  • Choose neutral-colored clothing for easy mix-and-match options
  • Invest in comfortable, versatile shoes for extensive walking on stone surfaces
  • Don't forget multiple EU plug adapters (different from UK adapters)

2. Embracing European Pace

  • Dining is slower - tables are yours for the evening, not rushed turnover
  • Shops may close midday and reopen later, many close Sundays
  • Public transportation varies by country - allow extra time to figure out systems

3. Money and Payment Systems

  • Euros accepted in most continental Europe (except UK uses pounds)
  • Credit cards widely accepted - notify your bank before traveling
  • Use bank-affiliated ATMs for better exchange rates and security
  • Public restrooms cost €0.50-€1.00 (often accepting cards)
  • Choose dynamic currency conversion at ATMs for better rates

4. Staying Connected

  • WiFi is common throughout Europe
  • Download essential apps: Google Maps offline, translator, WhatsApp
  • Screenshot important information in case you lose service

5. Cultural Etiquette

  • Learn basic greetings in the local language
  • Be curious, not critical about different customs
  • You're a visitor - adapt to local customs, not the other way around

6. Flight Expectations

  • Overnight red-eye flights are standard (7-10 hours)
  • Jet lag is real - expect to feel off for 1-2 days
  • Hydrate well and bring travel comfort items

Expert Tips

  • Plan laundry service rather than overpacking
  • Don't plan everything - ask locals for restaurant recommendations
  • Build in extra days when arriving and returning home
  • Consider guided tours with companies like Adventures by Disney or CIE Tours
  • Work with travel advisors for ETA applications and country-specific requirements

Visit Wonder and Beyond Travel at wonderandbeyondtravel.com for personalized Europe travel planning.


Support the show

Love the podcast? Help us continue to create great travel content by supporting the show. You can do that here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1197029/supporters/new


Ready to plan your vacation? Most families are confused and overwhelmed when planning a vacation. We work with you to plan a trip perfect for your family. Saving you time, money, and stress!

Visit our website www.allthingstravelpodcast.com and click on "Plan Your Next Vacation"

Join the travel conversations and the fun in our Facebook Page and Instagram Page!

  • Please share the show with your travel buddies!! Click this link and share the show!
  • Never miss an episode and help us take you to the top with us by following and leaving a 5-Star review on your favorite podcasting app!
...more
View all episodesView all episodes
Download on the App Store

All Things Travel PodcastBy Ryan Hedstrom and Julie Shaffer

  • 4.6
  • 4.6
  • 4.6
  • 4.6
  • 4.6

4.6

26 ratings


More shows like All Things Travel Podcast

View all
Travel with Rick Steves by Rick Steves

Travel with Rick Steves

180 Listeners

Travel with Amateur Traveler Podcast by Chris Christensen

Travel with Amateur Traveler Podcast

47 Listeners

Zero To Travel Podcast by Jason Moore

Zero To Travel Podcast

828 Listeners

The Frommer's Travel Show by Pauline Frommer

The Frommer's Travel Show

145 Listeners

DCL Podcast by Christy Pudyk & Lake Sprenkle

DCL Podcast

291 Listeners

Addicted to the Mouse: Disney Podcast | Disney World, Universal, & Cruise Vacation Planning by Dan and Leslie Lowry

Addicted to the Mouse: Disney Podcast | Disney World, Universal, & Cruise Vacation Planning

911 Listeners

Disney Travel Secrets - How to do Disney by Rob and Kerri Stuart

Disney Travel Secrets - How to do Disney

948 Listeners

Disney Deciphered: a Disney World planning podcast by Leslie Harvey and Joe Cheung

Disney Deciphered: a Disney World planning podcast

352 Listeners

Know Before You Go Travel Show by Penyak Travel Company

Know Before You Go Travel Show

255 Listeners

Out Of Office: A Travel Podcast by A Travel Podcast

Out Of Office: A Travel Podcast

332 Listeners

CruiseTipsTV Unplugged - Cruise Tips and More by Sheri from CruiseTipsTV

CruiseTipsTV Unplugged - Cruise Tips and More

663 Listeners

Travel Squad Podcast by Travel Squad Podcast

Travel Squad Podcast

237 Listeners

DCL Duo Podcast: A Disney Cruise Line Fan Podcast by Brian & Sam

DCL Duo Podcast: A Disney Cruise Line Fan Podcast

515 Listeners

Where to Go by DK Travel

Where to Go

27 Listeners

Points Talk® with the Travel Mom Squad by Travel Mom Squad: Travel on Credit Card Points

Points Talk® with the Travel Mom Squad

950 Listeners