A European Travel Guide: Key Destinations, Helpful Safety & Travel Tips

Travel Guides
Europe

By: Nat Posted: 09 August, 23

With so many iconic countries and landmark cities to visit, planning a European vacation can often feel overwhelming.

However, the key to making the most of an adventure to Europe is by planning ahead. By taking the time to research, you can have the holiday of a lifetime. Whether it is exploring key destinations, the best time to travel and practicalities such as transport or weather patterns, you could simplify the process altogether. Providing limitless variety, each destination you visit will be different from the next. The one thing each European destination has in common? Being a hotspot for all things history, culture and travel.

What to expect when travelling

Europe is one of the most diverse continents in the world, it is important to understand that its destinations are typically broken down into four areas. By referring to certain countries within Europe as a block, it makes it much easier to research travel tips such as accommodation, transportation and costs. Breaking down the entire continent into Eastern Europe, Northern Europe, Southern Europe and Western Europe areas also helps us understand what to expect from each area. Some areas are renowned for their historic landmarks - while others are known for their deeply ingrained cultures and natural beauty.

Encompassing Eastern Europe are destinations such as Hungary, Poland, Czechia and Romania. When exploring this region of Europe, travellers can typically expect budget friendly prices and plenty of unforgettable palaces and grand castles.

Northern Europe is a winter lover’s paradise. Encapsulating Iceland, Norway, Finland, Denmark and Sweden, Northern Europe celebrates the best of natural wonders such as the Northern Lights.

Made up of countries close to the Mediterranean Sea, Southern Europe showcases deeply ingrained aspects of European culture such as great food, good wine and incredible sights. Think Spain, Italy, Greece, Croatia and Malta.

The other key area of Europe is Western Europe. Synonymous with historic landmarks, museums and picturesque backdrops, and one of the most popular hotspots for tourists, Austria, France, Germany and Switzerland call Western Europe home.

Key destinations

When people think of Europe it can be easy to conjure up images of the Eiffel Tower, Amsterdam’s canals, quaint coffee shops and cobblestone roads. Outside of these incredible experiences and sights, Europe has so much more to offer.

Greek Islands

With this in mind, places like the Greek Islands are not to be missed. Filled with rich history and stunning blue and white architecture, each Island has something different and unique to offer individuals. For example, Ios is known as party central, with beach clubs running almost 24/7, Santorini is steeped in history and Naxos is perfect for those looking to embrace Greece in a more calm and quiet manner.

The Alps

When it comes to breathtaking views - no trip to Europe is complete without setting your own eyes on one of the greatest natural attractions in the world: the Alps. Stretching majestically across eight European nations, it is undeniably one of the world's most extraordinary natural attractions. Covering a distance of around 1,200 kilometres, these stunning peaks penetrate the borders of Italy, France, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Austria, Germany, Slovenia, and Monaco

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a haven for those seeking the thrill of exploration without the accompanying adrenaline rush. The capital city of the Netherlands is a destination that melds history, culture, and unique urban aesthetics into a captivating experience. The city's charm lies in its maze of cobblestone and brick streets, winding intriguingly around the central canals, creating a picturesque and relaxing atmosphere. With its rich tapestry of architectural gems - from gabled houses to historic bridges - Amsterdam's scenic cityscape is in perfect harmony with the serene waters of its iconic canals.

Venice

Venice, fondly referred to as "The Floating City," stands out with its elegant palazzos and ornate bridges dotting the mesmerising Grand Canal. To experience its famous gondola rides is an unforgettable journey through time.

Prague

Simultaneously, Prague, fondly known as the "City of a Hundred Spires" reveals its architectural grandeur in the form of intricate Gothic cathedrals and historic Baroque buildings. The city's charm amplifies manifold in December, when its renowned Christmas markets spring to life, transforming the city into a winter wonderland. The air filled with the aroma of mulled wine and gingerbread, makes it a magnet for tourists worldwide.

Budapest

Europe brims with unique experiences that seem to have been designed for those once-in-a-lifetime travel bucket lists. Among these, the thermal baths of Budapest stand out as an exquisite combination of leisure and health. An integral part of Hungarian culture for centuries, these baths are more than just a nod to the region's Roman and Ottoman past. They are a sanctuary of relaxation, with a plethora of wellness amenities such as saunas, steam rooms, and naturally heated pools that are sourced from mineral-rich thermal springs beneath the city. The waters, infused with healing minerals, not only provide a rejuvenating experience that soothe both body and soul - but further cement it as an unmatched experience in the heart of Europe.

Finland

Embodying a compelling blend of natural splendour and cultural charm, a journey to Finnish Lapland to witness the ethereal Northern Lights is an experience like no other. This celestial spectacle, painting the polar sky with vibrant hues, is renowned worldwide, and has drawn curious travellers and sky-gazers for centuries.

Getting around Europe

Europe is as vast as it is wide, therefore its robust public transportation system helps individuals travel from place to place with ease.

As you plan a journey through Europe, the choices of transportation can be a key factor in shaping your experience. Given the highly developed tourism infrastructure, a range of options - from buses and trains to planes and rental vehicles are available for you to explore at your leisure. However, when deciding on the best mode of transport, it's essential to weigh your budgetary allowances against the time you have available for travel.

For those prioritising economy, bus travel is an affordable, albeit a time-consuming, choice. Buses may require a longer duration to travel from one destination to another, but they offer a great opportunity to absorb the local scenery and engage with fellow travellers, enriching your overall journey.

If time-efficiency is a prime concern, Europe's extensive railway network is a splendid alternative. Although train travel might be a bit more costly than bus rides, it ensures quicker transits between cities and countries, maximising your time spent exploring these destinations rather than being on the move.

Meanwhile, the proliferation of budget airlines in Europe presents another attractive option. These airlines often advertise remarkably low fares, sometimes even dropping to single digits. However, it's important to be mindful of potential hidden costs, particularly when it comes to checked baggage, which can sometimes be a significant additional expense.

On the higher end of the budget spectrum, renting a car or campervan provides ultimate flexibility and convenience. With your own vehicle, you can tailor your travel schedule according to your whim, visiting local spots or hopping between countries at your own pace. Remember, however, to ensure that your driver's licence is recognized and valid in all the countries you intend to traverse.

For those who prefer not to shoulder the cost of vehicle rental but still desire the convenience, modern technology offers a solution in the form of rideshare apps. These applications offer a dependable and usually cheaper alternative to renting a vehicle, conveniently connecting you with local drivers who can transport you to your chosen destination. Whichever transportation method you choose, each comes with its own unique benefits and potential drawbacks, the consideration of which can greatly enhance your European adventure.

The weather in Europe and best time to visit

Europe really is a year round destination. This is largely because each area, be it Northern Europe, Eastern Europe, Western Europe or Southern Europe, has their own climate. As such, the best time to visit will depend on your budget, how you deal with large crowds and how important weather is to you.

Peak season in Europe is of course the summer time, this means that the weather is warm and the crowds are everywhere. Naturally the price of food, accommodation and activities will increase in this peak period.

Spring & Autumn in Europe

Autumn (Fall) and Spring are commonly referred to as shoulder seasons, this is the typical time between on peak and off peak travel. While the weather is still reasonably warm, the majority of tourists have gone home and thus prices return to normal.

Winter in Europe

Winter in Europe is marked by cold weather, snow and short daylight hours, however, during this time you will still find an abundance of crowds as people flock to Europe to take advantage of the Christmas markets and the skiing scene.

The cost of travelling in Europe

One of the main drawcards of Europe is the fact that great experiences can be had whether your budget is conservative or more flexible in nature. For those looking to visit Europe on a tight budget, the best advice is to travel during off peak times, but that’s not to say you can’t do it in summer, you just need to plan carefully! It’s also worth noting that the prices of many things will differ based on where you are travelling in Europe - whether it is food and beverages or adventurous activities. As an example, food is much cheaper in the east than in the west, in fact,you can get by on a food budget of 15 AUD per meal when travelling in Eastern Europe .

Accommodation price is also dependent upon locations. You’ll have plenty of options ranging from hostels to hotels and all the way to Airbnbs. A useful piece of advice is to compare and try to look for ‘gems’ - it may be hard, but a little extra effort researching can go a long way. Furthermore, we recommend planning your accommodation far in advance to avoid any rate or fee hikes closer to peak times of travel, or as availability dries up for popular areas year-round. Where a traveller on a conservative budget may look to food trucks and local diners to save money, those travelling with a more flexible budget can look to indulge in fine dining experiences and finish dinner with a glass of wine for up to 100 AUD per person.

Overall, when travelling in Europe it is important to remember that cost is not only relative to the area you are staying in, but also the time of year you are travelling.

Safety information to remember

Whilst navigating the beauty and wonders of Europe is an exciting endeavour, it also necessitates some basic safety awareness. One important aspect to bear in mind is the prevalence of petty theft and pickpocketing, especially in bustling urban areas. As such, vigilance and careful handling of personal belongings can significantly mitigate the risk of falling victim to such incidents.

Familiarity with emergency procedures in Europe is crucial as well. In any unsettling or precarious situation, ‘112’ is the universal emergency number that you can dial for immediate assistance.

Additionally, for Australian travellers , it's reassuring to know that the Australian government maintains several embassies across Europe. These institutions can provide vital support and assistance when necessary, and can be reached either in person or via their designated contact numbers.

Integrating certain safety measures into your travel habits can also help you maintain a low profile and avoid attracting unwanted attention. For instance, instead of navigating with a physical map that might label you as a tourist, consider using your smartphone for directions. This approach not only keeps your tourist status less conspicuous, but it also provides a more accurate and updated guide to your destination. By adopting these simple yet effective safety practices, you can focus more on soaking up the enchanting experiences Europe has to offer.

The local laws and regulations

While on holidays it is important to remain compliant and respectful. This way, both locals and authorities alike will welcome you with open arms into their city. While local laws and regulations will vary depending on the country, it is important to be conscious of them. Here are some of the lesser known, and quite humorous ones that can make for a nasty shock if you get stuck!

Firstly, in 2017 a law made it illegal to remove sand, pebbles and shells from beaches. This could result in a fine in places like the UK and Sardinia. Tourists can also be forced to pay a big fine in France, Ireland and Croatia for bringing counterfeit designer goods with them.

Turkey takes matters of currency very seriously. So, when travelling through here make sure to keep your currency intact. Otherwise, you could find yourself in prison for anywhere between six months and three years. It must be noted that behaviour such as wearing heels in historic sites, using selfie sticks and behaving badly with poor language are also frowned upon across some European countries.

For reference, it is also good to know that the legal drinking age is 16 in some parts of Europe. Meanwhile, in other parts of Europe, the legal drinking age has actually been raised to 18. Here is a fantastic global guide you can use to see what’s what when it comes to enjoying a drink in Europe!

European currency and general costs

Currency and costs in Europe will depend on where you are travelling. This is because 19 countries across the continent use the euro while major countries such as Sweden, Poland and Norway use national currencies.

In terms of the euro, there are both coins and bills to consider. Euro coins come in eight different denominations- 1c, 2c, 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, €1 and €2. On the other hand, there are five different bills- €5, €10, €20, €50 and €100.

Costs in Europe

When it comes to looking at European currency and the different coins and bills, it’s important to understand the different ways you may have to use this currency on a daily basis.

For example, a standard meal in Europe can cost around 33 AUD (€20) while a two person meal can cost around 50 AUD (€30) to 66 AUD (€40) with a glass of wine included or cocktail.

Prolific coffee makers and lovers, European cities charge anywhere between 2.70 AUD (€1.60) and 9. AUD (€5.50) for a cup of coffee. For those craving something stronger, a beer could cost as little as 3.30 AUD (€2) and as much as 8.24 AUD (€5).

With there being so much ground to cover in each European country, being prepared for transportation costs is paramount. Car hires can range from 9 AUD (€5.50) and 84 AUD (€51) per day while taxis charge between 40c (€ .25) and 6.50 AUD (€4) per 1 kilometre.

Money saving tips whilst travelling

Travelling in Europe can be quite expensive. There are new foods to try, a morning coffee to drink, experiences to be had and accommodation to be booked. Luckily there are a few money saving tips that everyone can employ to keep costs reasonable.

One tip is to eat local. This could mean a fast food restaurant, a small café or it could even mean heading to the supermarket, picking up some ingredients and having a picnic. Remember, not every meal needs to be fine dining in order for it to be delicious.

Taking the free city tours is another great tip. Rather than going to the expense of hiring a car, let local experiences guide your adventure. While undoubtedly cheaper, you will also be rewarded with sights and experiences you might have otherwise missed.

Bringing your own water bottle is another simple but noteworthy tip. There are plenty of water fountains to replenish your bottle and you will not have to pay extra to have a soda or cocktail with your meals

Embracing public transport is one of the best money saving tips for travellers. Europe’s buses and trains are often more decadent than other parts of the world. This means you can travel in comfort and style without having to break the bank.

A money saving tip that may not be applicable to everyone is staying with a local. This could be a family member, friend, acquaintance or friend of a friend. Europeans are often hospitable and love to provide shelter and cook for tourists. However, we don’t recommend compromising on elements of safety just to save on accommodation.

Safeguard your journey

Planning a European adventure is equally complex and exciting. However, just because you are on holiday does not mean you are exempt from falling ill or other misfortunes, such as losing your bag.

In order to protect your trip from some of the things that can go wrong, you may look into travel insurance. Providing coverage across a range of different scenarios, travel insurance may provide support in the event of unexpected cancellations or other unfortunate situations.

An incredible European adventure

Travelling to any European destination is a great adventure. From a rich history and culture to iconic landmarks and certain styles of cuisine, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

However, no European adventure can be planned overnight. With so many destinations to consider and logistics to work out, a trip to Europe needs to be carefully researched and planned.

The result? A once in a lifetime holiday that seamlessly blends elements of budget and time with unique experiences and unforgettable visits to landmark destinations that are envied the world over.

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