5 Tips for Planning Your First Trip to Europe

Planning your first European adventure is a thrilling experience—full of anticipation, curiosity, and maybe a few nerves. Here are five friendly, practical tips to help you make the most of your journey, keep things stress-free, and open yourself up to unforgettable moments.

1. Start with the Classics, But Make It Your Own

Europe is packed with iconic cities and landmarks for a reason—they’re incredible! For your first trip, consider starting with well-known destinations like Paris, Rome, or London. These cities are easy to navigate, offer plenty to see, and help you get comfortable with European travel. Once you’ve got the hang of things, you can always venture off the beaten path on your next adventure.

2. Don’t Overpack Your Itinerary (or Your Suitcase)

It’s tempting to try to see as much as possible, but moving between too many places can leave you exhausted. Pick a few destinations and spend several days in each to really soak up the atmosphere. Remember, travel days eat into your sightseeing time, so slow down and savor each stop.

When it comes to packing, less is more. European cities often have cobblestone streets and stairs—packing light makes getting around so much easier. Choose comfortable shoes and versatile clothing, and leave space for a few souvenirs.

3. Embrace Public Transportation

Europe’s trains, buses, and metros are efficient and often the best way to get around. Do a little research before you go so you’re not caught off guard—apps like Rome2Rio can help you plan routes. Don’t be afraid to try local transport; it’s part of the adventure and a great way to see how locals live!

4. Plan Ahead, But Stay Flexible

Book your flights and accommodations early, especially if you’re traveling in peak season. For must-see attractions, consider buying tickets in advance to skip the lines. But leave some room in your schedule for spontaneous discoveries—sometimes the best memories are the ones you didn’t plan for.

5. Dive Into the Local Culture

Say hello to locals, try new foods, and wander neighborhoods beyond the main tourist areas. Ask your hosts or hotel staff for recommendations—they often know the best hidden gems. Whether it’s a bustling market, a quiet café, or a local festival, these authentic experiences are what you’ll remember most.

Traveling to Europe for the first time is about more than checking sights off a list—it’s about embracing new perspectives, making connections, and letting yourself be surprised.

Bon voyage!

My name is Meredith Strack -- Adventure and Family Travel Advisor

Meredith loves the excitement of planning travel adventures! She is married and has three young children, ages 5, 6, and 8. She has traveled coast to coast through the United States, and has slept in 47 different states. She has visited 33 countries on 6 different continents, and can't wait to add more to her list each year. Her bucket list includes seeing each of the

7 New World Wonders, and she is so close to completing the challenge!

Meredith specializes in Caribbean/Mexico, European, and Alaskan/Hawaiian experiences.