10 Top Travel Tips for Europe, According to Tour Guides

According to the United Nations World Tourism Organization, Europe is the world’s most visited continent, welcoming 747 million tourists in 2024. Nevertheless, while strolling the streets of Milan, wandering the ancient ruins in Athens, or cruising around the Mediterranean, you can expect to see tourists making it.

This is true for tour guides, who witness the majority of these mistakes on the ground.

From disrespecting local customs to being pickpocketed to forgetting to repack sunscreen, European tour guides have truly seen it all. Below, two tour operators share the most common mistakes they see tourists make in Europe and the solutions they recommend to be better travelers (which are easier and cheaper than you might think).

Tour Guide Approved Europe Travel Essentials

Vivenic Uptown Women’s Loafers

“In Rome (and most historic European cities), cobblestones and uneven streets make high heels a dangerous sport.” Travel + LeisureAnd yet, many tourists take their chances. Although “style is everything” in Italy, she said, you’re better off dressing up and wearing flat shoes like Wonk’s popular Uptown Loafers to “avoid a super awkward fall” that could potentially ruin your trip. Also, don’t forget to break them in before your trip to avoid any uncomfortable blisters that may appear with new shoes.

Chalman leather change holder

We live in such a digital, on-demand world that today, everyone assumes they can point to their credit card receipt. “One of the biggest surprises for Americans is that in most of Europe, there is no line to add a tip on the card slip,” shared Dunn. This is because tipping is not in their culture, but Americans still want to add gratuity for great service. “The solution is as simple as hand tipping some euro coins, like the locals do,” he explained. A key ring coin pouch is a handy fix to make sure you always have some change accessible. Pro tip: If you forget to pack or buy a coin purse before your trip, many souvenir shops sell them for just a couple of euros.

Holi Travel Tablet Organizer

If you are on any medication, it is important to bring enough food for the duration of the trip. In fact, Stavros Makris, co-founder of Athens, Greece-based BearingSouth, says you should pack extra food in case of flight delays or cancellations that extend your trip. To keep them organized, buy a handy pill case and keep the other as your “just in case” stash. Further, “Be sure to learn the local name of the medication you are taking, as most drugs have different names in Europe, and if possible, carry your doctor’s prescription with you.” And most importantly, don’t forget to inform your guide of any allergies or health conditions they should know to streamline the process in the event of an emergency.

Bagel packing cube

One mistake Makris always makes is travelers who don’t know how to pack efficiently: “There’s a science to packing.” This includes packing on the lighter side when it comes to clothing, as most places in Europe have an incredible selection of clothing that you can buy on the ground (if you think you even need it). Packing Cube helps organize your suitcase and your outfits. Try to fill them according to night versus night wear or first half of the trip versus second half of the trip. This helps you plan and, in turn, realize what you really need.

Sunsingles Travel Sunscreen Packet

“Many people forget to reapply sunblock during their European trips, leading to heat exhaustion, dehydration and the occasional emergency room visit,” warns Makris. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen (single-use packs can be handy to throw in a bag or pocket) and apply it throughout the day.

Water bottle with roti falling

When it comes to fighting heat exhaustion, staying hydrated is just as important as applying sunscreen. “Pack a bottle of potable tap water in most places in Europe,” Makris advises. If you know you tend to overheat, you should also pack some hydration packs to add to your water bottle on long tour days.

Sumptech Mini Cross Body Sling Bag

Many travelers feel comfortable in Europe because it’s another Western city, but the amount of local scams and pickpockets is a constant problem among visitors. “Learn how to be comfortable standing your ground and saying ‘no,’ and secure your personal belongings, and avoid train cars as much as possible,” Makris instructed. The best way to keep your personal belongings safe is to keep them close in a crossbody bag instead of in your pockets or in a bag, where they’re not in your line of vision.

Moleskin mini notebook

When you get used to a different lifestyle, it is so easy to inadvertently disrespect local customs and culture. A little research goes a long way, Makris said: “Learn the local customs and follow the rules, even if they don’t make much sense, and you’ll feel accepted, valued and welcome.” On that note, keep a small notebook with some key phrases to help inspire and encourage more authentic conversations with locals. While you can also keep key phrases on your phone, technology can be misunderstood and act as a distraction, so it’s best to have paper in front of you. Again, a simple one ciao or thank you Goes a long way with natives.

rxbar protein bars

Many American travelers are accustomed to eating dinner early, but in Italy, Spain, and Portugal, locals eat later. “In reality, often, restaurants that are only open at 7 or 8 p.m. cater to locals,” Dunn said. For that reason, he recommends packing a snack to help fight hunger pangs between meals. Whether it’s a healthy nibble like a protein bar or beef jerky or a local treat like afternoon gelato in Italy, it will help visitors adjust to a new eating schedule.

No-Sport Hydration + Caffeine

Many Americans are surprised by the size of espresso in Europe. “Visitors order coffee expecting a tall mug and instead stare at a small espresso cup like it’s a joke,” Dunn said. To get both a cultural experience but also sort out your caffeine habits, order an espresso and enjoy a sharp, concentrated shot, then pack a caffeinated electrolyte tablet in your day bag to keep you motivated on the go.

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