The Ultimate Travel Guide To Visiting Europe

Europe is a dream destination for many travelers, and it’s not hard to see why. Imagine sipping your morning espresso in Italy, exploring the ancient temples of Greece, or taking in the breathtaking views in the Scottish Highlands.

Vacations in Europe are packed with history, culture, impressive landscapes, and delicious food, with something to interest every type of traveler. However, the journey from dreaming about a European adventure to actually getting there can be daunting.

The complexity of planning, organizing, and booking all the elements of your trip can be challenging, particularly if you’ve never been before or aren’t used to traveling. This travel guide is designed to help you start planning everything you need for a trip to Europe.

From the official prerequisites you’ll need and the diverse range of destination countries, cities and places you have to choose from to the most frequently asked questions about traveling to Europe, this guide is your first step towards making your dreams a reality.

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What do you need to travel to Europe?

When traveling to Europe, the requirements can vary depending on your nationality, the purpose of your trip, and the specific countries you plan to visit. Here are the key requirements for EU and non-EU nationals, including U.S. passport holders:

• A valid passport with at least six months of validity beyond their planned departure date from the Schengen Area. EU citizens traveling within the Schengen Area are typically required to have a valid national ID card or passport. 
• A Schengen or national visa for the countries you’re visiting may be required, depending on your nationality. EU citizens do not need a Schengen or national visa to travel in Europe. 
• Supporting documents, such as travel itineraries, proof of accommodation, sufficient funds for your stay, and travel insurance with medical coverage, when traveling to Europe.
• No Covid-19 testing or vaccination is required to enter Europe. However, you should double check for any specific health and safety requirements, including testing and vaccination, for each country you travel to.

What are the new rules for traveling to Europe?

Starting in 2025, people from over 60 previously visa-exempt countries wishing to travel to Europe, including U.S. passport holders, will need to apply for authorization before their visit through the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) for short stays of up to 90 days.

The new travel authorization system allows you to enter 30 European countries for a short stay, including: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland.

Do I need Etias in 2024?

You do not need ETIAS in 2024 to travel to Europe. The new system will be introduced in 2025 and no applications will be accepted until that point. It is important to note that only visa-exempt travellers will be required to have ETIAS to travel to Europe. You can find out who is required to have ETIAS on the official EU website.

What is the 90 day rule in Europe?

The 90 day rule in Europe means your total stay in the Schengen area must be no more than 90 days in every 180 days, no matter how many countries you visit. You will need a valid passport and a Schengen visa, depending on your nationality. The 90 day period starts from the date you enter the first Schengen country. 

What is the Schengen zone?

The Schengen Zone is a group of 27 European countries, covering nearly all of mainland Europe, that allows people from certain countries – including the United States, to move across their borders without going through border controls. “Schengen” is named after a village in Luxembourg where the agreement was signed.

The 27 Schengen countries are Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Croatia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.

• Countries in the European Union but are not in the Schengen Zone include Bulgaria, Cyprus, Ireland and Romania
• Countries that are not in the EU but are part of the Schengen Agreement include Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.
• European countries that are not in the EU or the Schengen Zone include: Albania, Andorra, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Russia, San Marino, Serbia, Turkey, Ukraine, and the United Kingdom.
• Meanwhile, the microstates of San Marino, Monaco, and Vatican City are also not official members of the Schengen Zone. However, these three are considered ‘de facto’ inside the area — and, therefore, do not impose border controls.

What happens if you want to stay in Europe for more than 90 days?

You could be fined, deported or banned from the Schengen Area for several years if you stay longer than 90 days on a Schengen visa or visa-free stay in Europe. To travel for an extended period, one option is to leave the Schengen Zone before your 90-day limit expires and then return after some time has passed. 

You can re-enter the Schengen Zone after the 180-day period from your initial entry date has elapsed. Otherwise, you will need to apply for a national visa for the specific country you want to stay in. If you are having trouble counting your 90-days correctly, try using the Schengen Calculator to make sure your stay is within the legal limit.  

Can I travel anywhere in Europe?

Non-EU nationals can visit Europe’s Schengen Area for up to 90 days for tourism or business, with or without a Schengen visa, depending on your nationality. If you’re traveling to a non-Schengen European country, you must apply for a national visa, depending on the country’s nationality requirements. 

EU nationals have the right to travel freely in the 27 EU member countries, as well as in Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland, carrying either a valid passport or a national identity card (ID).

Can I leave the Schengen zone and come back?

Yes, it is possible to leave the Schengen Zone and come back after a temporary absence. A Schengen visa or visa-free stay allows for multiple entries within the 180-day validity period. However, leaving and returning does not reset this 90-day clock; you will have to wait until the 180-day period is up to reapply. 

Should you carry your passport with you in Europe?

In Europe, it’s recommended to carry a photocopy of your passport and visa with you at all times so you can prove your identity and citizenship if needed. Keep your actual passport in a secure location, such as a hotel safe or hidden in your luggage, to reduce the risk of losing your passport or having it stolen.

However, it is always best to check the specific requirements for each country you plan to visit during your journey if you have any doubts.

Does Europe have a tourism board?

The European Travel Commission (ETC) represents Europe’s travel sector as a whole. The ETC is a collection of 35 individual national tourism organizations from European countries rather than a single “European tourist board” and is responsible for promoting Europe as a tourist destination.

Other key tourism organizations in Europe include the European Union National Institutes for Culture (EUNIC), which plays a role in promoting European culture and heritage, followed by each country’s national tourism board, which is responsible for promoting tourism to that specific country. These boards often collaborate with the ETC and other international organizations to boost tourism.

European Destinations

There are 50 countries in Europe including transcontinental countries (straddling both Europe and Asia), including Russia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Turkey; partially recognized states, including Kosovo; and microstates like Monaco, San Marino, Liechtenstein, Andorra, and Vatican City.

Russia is the largest and most populated country in Europe, covering a total of around 37% of the continent, while Vatican City is the smallest and least populated official country in Europe, occupying only a tiny territory in the center of Rome. While Russia and Ukraine are considered European countries, it is not advisable to travel there at this time.

What is the most popular European destination in 2023?

France was the most popular country in Europe in 2023, with more than 72 million visits, according to a study published in November 2023. Spain was the second most popular destination with 70 million visits, and Turkey was the third most popular destination in Europe with 45 million visits.

All three countries generally enjoy a Mediterranean climate with warm, sunny summers and mild winters, making them attractive year-round destinations.

Which country in Europe should I visit first?

France is recommended for first-time travellers to Europe because it has some of the world’s most famous landmarks, like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum; rich cultural heritage; world-renowned cuisine; and a variety of landscapes, from beaches in the Riviera to ski resorts in the Alps. 

The best countries in Europe to visit are the ones that spark your interest the most, whether it’s exploring historical sites, enjoying nature, having great food, or shopping. Each European country has its own unique culture, language and attractions, so there’s no wrong choice. 

Western European countries tend to be more expensive like Ireland, Switzerland and Luxembourg, while Eastern European countries are typically more budget-friendly like Bulgaria, Romania and Albania.

Northern European countries like Norway and Iceland are great in the summer for their pleasant temperatures and long days, while southern European countries like Greece, Italy and Spain are ideal for warm winter escapes. 

What are the capital cities in Europe?

There are 50 capital cities in Europe. Moscow, in Russia, is the biggest capital city on the continent at 2,511 km² (970 square miles) with a population of almost 12 million. Vatican City is the smallest capital in Europe, at 0.49 km² (30 square miles) and a population of 764.

Although the city of Istanbul in Turkey is not a capital city, it is the largest city in Europe by population, with 15.8 million people. It lies between two continents, Europe and Asia, and is therefore not fully located on the continent of Europe.

While the majority of European countries only have one official capital city, three countries in Europe are considered to have two capital cities.

These are Georgia with the cities of Tbilisi and Kutaisi; Montenegro with the cities of Podgorica and Cetinje; and the Netherlands with the cities of Amsterdam and The Hague.

While Europe is made up of many sovereign countries, each with its own capital, people often refer to Brussels, Belgium, as the “capital of Europe.” This is because it is one of the most important international trade and business centers in Europe and because it is the location of the headquarters of the European Union.

Which is the most beautiful European city?

Paris is considered the most beautiful city in Europe; dubbed the ‘City of Love’ or the ‘City of Light’, it’s decorated with Haussmann style architecture, ornate stone facade buildings, boulevards lined with trees illuminated by Parisian street lamps and iconic landmarks that contribute to a picturesque skyline.

The Seine River, which winds its way through Paris, is dotted with historic bridges and riverbanks (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). The city is also home to numerous well-maintained parks and manicured gardens, such as the Luxembourg Gardens, Tuileries Garden, and Parc des Buttes-Chaumont.

However, beauty is subjective, and there is a diverse range of beautiful cities in Europe worth visiting, each with its own unique charm and type of visual appeal. For example, Venice, Italy, is known for its intricate network of canals and Renaissance buildings that give off a romantic atmosphere. 

Which European city has the most to do?

London is Europe’s most entertaining city, with the most to do for tourists and visitors. Thanks to iconic landmarks like the Houses of Parliament, Buckingham Palace, and the Tower of London, and attractions like the British Museum, National Gallery, and the West End theatre district, London is a prime tourist destination. 

London has 192 museums, including 11 national museums, over 1,500 art galleries, 39 Greater London zoos and wildlife parks, 30 theme parks and funfairs, 39 theatres in the West End alone, 25 castles and palaces, 3,000 parks, 3,500 pubs and well over 50 famous landmarks to see around the city.

Paris and Rome are also very entertaining cities to explore but which city you choose mostly depends on what type of activity or attractions you’re interested in. For example, if you prefer to spend most of your time outdoors, a city with little rainfall will allow you more freedom to enjoy the open air.

What is the best time to visit Europe?

Overall, late March to early June and September to November are the best times to visit Europe, as you’ll avoid the busier summer period and see your money go further. Northern Europe is generally warm and dry between May and September, while farther south, temperatures can reach 36°C (96°F) between July and August.

Where is the best climate in Europe?

The best climate in Europe is typically found in southern Europe, where you’ll find Mediterranean countries with hot, dry summers and mild winters like Spain, southern France, Italy, and Greece. These countries offer the best weather in Europe for those who prefer warm, sunny weather and minimal rainfall.

However, if you prefer cooler summer temperatures and don’t mind some rainfall, the British Isles and Scandinavian countries like Finland, Norway or Denmark might be more suitable. The best snowy weather in Europe includes the Swiss, Italian and French Alps, as well as some eastern European countries, including Bulgaria, Latvia and Lithuania.

Which countries in Europe are not too hot in July?

The United Kingdom, Ireland, Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland, The Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, Poland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Switzerland and Austria are European countries that typically experience milder temperatures in the summer months compared to the hot Mediterranean climate.

Temperatures in these countries during the summer are typically warm, with moderate temperatures in the mid-20° Celcius (mid 70° Fahrenheit). They tend to be more cloudy than the southern parts of Europe, offering respite from the direct heat of the sun, which is further cooled by a light breeze, making them suitable for travelers who prefer a cooler climate.

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How safe is it to travel in Europe?

Europe is generally safe for travelers. It consistently ranks as the safest in the world, according to the Global Peace Index, with the majority of European countries receiving a good safety score with the exception of Ukraine, Russia, and Belarus, which should be avoided for now.

However, it’s important to remain vigilant while on your trip to Europe. There is a difference between countries, cities, and even neighborhoods that travelers should be aware of. Research the area you plan to stay in before you book, be mindful of pickpockets and scams and be cautious when using ATMs or carrying cash.