Start With Your Must-Sees
Europe has 44 countries and thousands of potential destinations. Don't try to see everything. Pick 2–4 countries for a 2-week trip, or 1–2 countries for a week. First-timers typically choose from: Paris + London + Rome, or Spain + Portugal, or Italy coast-to-coast, or a Scandinavian loop. Use our Trip Finder to narrow your options based on budget and interests.
When to Go
May–June and September–October offer the best combination of weather, crowds, and prices. July–August is peak season with highest prices and longest queues. Winter (November–March) offers the cheapest flights and hotels but cold weather in northern Europe. Southern Europe (Spain, Portugal, Greece, Italy) remains pleasant into late October.
Budget Planning
Daily budgets by region: Western Europe (France, UK, Switzerland): $100–200/day. Southern Europe (Spain, Portugal, Greece): $60–120/day. Eastern Europe (Czech Republic, Poland, Hungary): $40–80/day. Scandinavia: $120–200/day. These include accommodation, food, local transport, and activities.
Getting Around
Trains are Europe's best transport. Eurail passes are worth it for multi-country trips (from $200 for 4 travel days). Budget airlines (Ryanair, EasyJet, Wizz Air) connect cities for $20–80 if booked early — but add luggage costs. Flixbus offers cheap intercity buses. Within cities, metro systems are efficient and affordable.
Accommodation
Hostels: $20–40/night in dorms (great for solo travelers). Budget hotels: $60–120/night. Airbnb: best for groups or longer stays. Book early for summer — popular cities sell out months ahead. Consider staying slightly outside city centers for 30–50% savings.
Schengen Rules
Americans, Canadians, Australians, and many others can stay in the 27 Schengen countries for 90 days within any 180-day period without a visa. The 90-day count applies to the entire zone collectively. Non-Schengen countries in Europe (UK, Ireland, Turkey, Balkans) don't count toward this limit. Check our Visa Checker for your specific passport.
Packing Tips
Pack light — one carry-on backpack (40–45L) is ideal. European cobblestones punish rolling suitcases. Essentials: universal power adapter (Type C/F for most of Europe), comfortable walking shoes, layers (European weather changes quickly), and a reusable water bottle. Leave the jeans — they're heavy and slow-drying.