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Home » Europe » Travel Safety

Is Europe Safe for Travel? (Insider Tips)

Europe is a big place, but if you’re thinking of travelling around this fascinating continent, we’re all for it. There’s a complete glut of ancient history here, some of the world’s best cuisine and more culture than you can shake a shakey-sticky stick at. Europe is a levelled-up destination.

This continent also has the benefit of (mostly) open borders, meaning you can travel freely from one end of the continent to the other without  too much  trouble. There’s so much to see here that you could spend an age road tripping or train journeying around seeing it all.

However, Europe is a big place and there certainly more than just a few concerns. Aside from some possible language barriers and cultural differences, there is the increased threat of terrorism as well as plentiful pickpockets in some of the more popular European cities.

That is exactly why we have decided to create this epic insider’s guide to staying safe in Europe. You are going to find a whole lot of useful tips for everyone from families to solo female travellers in our guide, helping you to stay safe as you explore this cool continent.

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How Safe is Europe? (Our take)

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As we’ve already established, Europe is big, Europe is diverse and Europe is an amazing place to travel. Spread spread across an area of over 10 million kilometres, from Asia to the Atlantic, from Africa to the Arctic, there’s a ton of cultural heritage, numerous open borders, efficient transport and multiple languages and cultures to get stuck into.

Needless to say, any fan of history, of food, or of amazing architecture, or learning some new local lingo will absolutely love it here.

Whilst most visits to Europe are 100% trouble free, with nothing to worry about, there are still a few safety concerns that some travellers will come across.

Pickpockets targeting unsuspecting tourists, are an issue in many of Europe’s major cities and at its larger transport hubs.

Terrorism has also been a concern in many countries, with a spike in terrorist attacks across the continent throughout the past decade. Tourists may therefore feel apprehensive about visiting the global cities that have been at the centre of these kinds of attacks.

Civil unrest has, does and can cause disruption in some cities. Paris, for example is well known for strikes and other industrial protests, whilst cities such as Kiev have also seen large demonstrations in recent years.

European cities are also known for their drinking cultures, with some city centres in particular (Bratislava, Krakow, Vilnius and Bucharest, to name just a few) becoming quite rowdy. Though usually fun and nothing more, you may not be used to this level of everyday hedonism.

There’s extremes of nature as well: in the Arctic Circle not only are there sub-zero temperatures to consider, but there’s also that issue of the sun never rising in some places during winter. On the other hand, summers in Greece and Spain, even Hungary, for example, can be extremely hot.

With all that in mind, let’s dive into the details of this continent…

There is no such thing as a perfect safety guide, and this article is no different. The question of “Is Europe Safe?” will ALWAYS have a different answer depending on the parties involved. But this article is written for savvy travellers from the perspective of savvy travellers.

The information present in this safety guide was accurate at the time of writing, however, the world is a changeable place, now more than ever. Between the pandemic, ever-worsening cultural division, and a click-hungry media, it can be hard to maintain what is truth and what is sensationalism.

Here, you will find safety knowledge and advice for travelling Europe. It won’t be down to the wire cutting edge info on the most current events, but it is layered in the expertise of veteran travellers. If you use our guide, do your own research, and practise common sense, you will have a safe trip to Europe.

If you see any outdated information in this guide, we would really appreciate it if you could reach out in the comments below. We strive to provide the most relevant travel information on the web and always appreciate input from our readers (nicely, please!). Otherwise, thanks for your ear and stay safe!

It’s a wild world out there. But it’s pretty damn special too. 🙂

As we keep saying, Europe is huge. Each country gets its fair share of tourists, with the continent as a whole attracting many, many visitors yearly.

In 2018 (according to the UNWTO) there were approximately 1.401 billion international tourists worldwide. 710 million of these arrived in Europe, which is 50% of all global tourists – and a figure that was up 5% on the year before.

Two of the top 10 international tourist destinations of 2018 were European: France (No. 1 – 89.4 million) and Spain (No. 2 – 82.8 million).

There are numerous hotspots around the continent that attract tourists in particular: Barcelona in Spain, for example, as well as Paris, France, and Amsterdam in the Netherlands. Having all these tourists in one place can cause issues, but we’ll look at that later.

The main travellers to EU countries come from Italy, France, Spain and England, making up a combined 55% of all tourists to the EU.

With all these tourists, the tourism industry has become a very important factor in the economy of the continent and crucial to the development of many countries within it. Britain’s travel industry, for example, is on track to be worth £257 billion by 2025. Moreover, 35% of all money spent on tourism anywhere in the world is generated in the EU. People love it here!

As tourism is so valuable, protecting those tourists is important for the continent in general. That doesn’t mean there isn’t any crime, however.

The number of homicides across the EU in 2017 was 5,200, with 1.1 million cases of assault. This may sound like a lot, but compare this to the same year in the USA, a country with less than half the population of Europe, when 17,284 people were murdered. However, between 2011 and 2018, robberies across the EU had decreased by 24%.

In a study by Mercer assessing the safety of 450 cities worldwide, many European cities were found amongst the top. There were also some surprises – and concerns.

For example, Barcelona was ranked at 64th in the world because of low personal safety and an increase in thefts. Belfast, Northern Ireland tied at 64th, though with a relatively low violent crime rate, social instability and poverty were causes for concern.

Tallinn, Estonia – with picturesque city centre and plenty of history – was ranked at 66th, owing to drug and human trafficking by Russian syndicates. Paris, France ranked 71st, due to concerns about terrorist attacks, and London, England at 72nd for similar reasons.

What should you take away from all this? That, whilst for the most part Europe is safe, not all parts of it are and it pays to keep up with current news events. Speaking of which…

Europe has come into the headlines recently with much civil unrest and a spike in terrorist attacks catching the world’s attention. The thing is, in reality, these types of events – as serious as they are – are actually pretty rare.

Whilst attacks have occurred as recently as 2019 throughout the continent, and whilst this does affect people’s mindsets and security procedures, it shouldn’t affect your actual visit to any European city. When it comes to the countryside, life is far removed from terrorist attacks.

Race could be a concern in certain corners of Europe. Much of Western Europe shouldn’t be a worry for travellers from Asian, Arab or African backgrounds, but there are times when racist attitudes could affect your time in a country. For example, in rural areas, you may get more unwanted attention (possibly just staring) than you may have been expecting.

In the former “Eastern Bloc” countries, racism is more of an issue; Russia itself has seen an increase of racially motivated attacks.

Pickpockets, scams, groups of children distracting you with bogus charity clipboards, and other clever, well versed street thieves can be a real issue in some city centres, especially around tourist sights. It’s not something that seems to be lessening.

In general, most of Europe is safe to travel, but certain areas are best avoided. Before you travel to a specific country, it’s important to read up on where in that particular country you shouldn’t be going to. For example, in Ukraine, you shouldn’t be travelling to Crimia (occupied by Russia, currently) and the Donetsk and Luhansk regions. However, backpacking the rest of Ukraine is perfectly fine.

Terrorism is what most governments around the world are warning their citizens of when it comes to travel in Europe. There’s nothing much you can do to prepare yourself for what are freak events, just stay aware of current situations, but don’t let it keep you from enjoying your trip.

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Europe is ranked up there as one of the biggest tourist hotspots in the world and many people have a completely trouble-free time in this amazing continent. Although you’re unlikely to be a victim of crime and/or terrorism, it still pays to have a lot of information to ensure your own security. With that in mind we’ve got together a bumper list of the best travel safety tips for Europe to help you prepare…

• Be aware of pickpockets – sometimes acting as groups, they operate in crowded areas (tourist sites, public transport, train stations); stay aware of people acting suspiciously around you
• Scams are everywhere – money changing, the “gold ring” and other distraction techniques often target tourists. Basically, don’t trust overfriendly strangers or “accidents” happening right in front of you
• Be careful withdrawing money from ATMs – be aware of who’s around you, if anyone’s watching you do it, or if the machine itself looks like it’s been tampered with
• Dress down – expensive watches, diamond earrings, SLRs, anything that makes you look rich and/or a tourist can single you out as a target for petty thieves
• Don’t leave bags unattended – on the backs of chairs at cafes, in lobbies, anywhere, as they could easily go missing. Alternatively, they could be destroyed and cause a security panic: the threat of terrorism is taken seriously
• Don’t carry valuables all in one bag – or in one pocket! Cash, cards, iPhone, passport – if it’s all in one place, and that thing goes missing, it’s a big stress. We can tell you that one from experience.
• Don’t resist if someone tries to mug you – though not rife, it’s best not to resist if someone wants your stuff
• Keep copies of your passport – theft is an issue and copies of your passport (and visa) can be very helpful
• Stay informed of political/social issues – unrest can put cities on lockdown and disrupt transport. It pays to be in the know
• Use a money belt – it’s a great way to keep your money safe in Europe (and we’ve got an awesome recommendation for you later)
• Be aware of the legality of drugs – these vary, especially with cannabis; harder drugs are never legal (Portugal is a special case).
• Take a taxi at night instead of walking – mainly in certain cities, or certain areas of certain cities, and make sure you take an licensed taxi
• Choose the area in which you’re staying wisely – security can vary in different parts of different places, so make sure you do your research
• Read up on areas you shouldn’t be wandering around – especially in cities; not all parts of European cities are UNESCO, you know… Far from it. Some areas are not really ok to explore
• Be culturally aware – understand local culture, cover up at religious sites (and keep your voice down), know about queuing, don’t snapping selfies at sensitive memorials… All good things to know
• Be politically aware, too – in some countries it’s not ok to suddenly bring up political issues. For example, in Northern Ireland it’s not cool to start talking about The Troubles, or talk about Russia too much in Ukraine, anything like that
• Know that Europe is diverse – what works in southern Italy doesn’t cut it in Germany, and the tips you picked up in the UK won’t help you at all in Croatia. Nothing is “European”
• Learn some language(s) – there’s a lot of them and it’s fun to add dozens of new phrases into your vocab!
• Get a sim card – this means you can get online, translate things, call someone in an emergency, not get lost. It’s a no brainer

If you’re travelling to Europe, chances are you are going to be going through more than just one country. It’s important to know that not all countries are the same, differing much more than American states. Places, people, languages, levels of safety, hospitality – all of these vary wildly across the continent. Know that you’re getting yourself into an epic trip, pay attention to your surroundings: you’ll be fine.

Trust us: one of the worst things that can happen to whilst you’re travelling is to have your money stolen from you. We’ve learned the hard way and it’s totally not fun at all to find yourself $100 down at the beginning of a trip.

The same goes for Europe though. Though it’s not exactly one of the most unsafe places in the world, many countries have varying levels of street crime and petty theft that can mean keeping your money safe here becomes something of a priority.

By far the easiest way to keep your money safe in Europe is to use a money belt. You may know how to take all the precautions possible, and how not to draw attention to yourself, but you can still find yourself in the wrong place at the wrong time… It happens.

A money belt is a good way to stop potential thieves in their tracks – you’ll have nothing in your pockets to pick in the first place!

Some money belts can be pretty obvious though, bulging underneath clothes and actually alerting savvy pickpocketers to the presence of a hidden source of money. Not good. Other money belts can be overcomplicated and uncomfortable to wear.

The Pacsafe Money Belt is our best bet. It’s affordable, it looks and acts like a belt, and it’s sturdy – what more could you ask for out of a money belt!

It’s quite literally a belt: the only difference is that there is a hidden zipper pocket where you can stash your cash for the day. Other than that, it just looks like a belt – a sturdy and affordable one at that, too!

Whilst you may not be a fan of belts, other ingenious solutions to keeping your money safe in Europe do exist. For example, there’s an infinity scarf with a secret pocket for your money that you could get your hands on.

Solo travel anywhere in the world is going to be pretty cool, but nowhere quite as varied and interesting as Europe. Solo travel in Europe is just perfect. There are loads of hostels, events to attend, museums and galleries, tours on offer and endless culture to soak up.

For the most part, Europe is safe to travel alone. Being so well established as a backpacker destination for decades, the transport is easy, accommodation is plentiful, and routes are well trodden. Still, we’ve got some solo travel tips for Europe to help you out.

• Choose the right accommodation for you. Europe is full of social backpacker hostels , homestays, Airbnbs, guesthouses, bed and breakfasts, couch surfing – a lot. However you should definitely do your research. Is the place you want to stay in a safe area? Is the hostel secure? Is it good for solo travellers? Are the hosts helpful and easy to get in touch with? Don’t skimp on your security by going for the cheapest digs.
• Try not to arrive at your destination too late at night. Railway stations and bus terminals are known for being crime hotspots after dark, so you will put yourself more at risk if you happen to find yourself at one of these at that time. If you are taking the bus, ( Flixbus operate some cheap routes. )
• Ask your accommodation what you should be doing in the town or city you’re in. They’ll be able to tell you areas that are safe, where you can easily explore, and areas to avoid. They may even tell you about a few local gems that your guidebook won’t have.
• Travel light. A big bag, or multiple bags, on packed trains, buses, or even just walking around any European city just a) isn’t a good look, b) could single you out for potential thieves and c) is not fun or comfortable at all. Try to streamline your packing, cut down on things you don’t need, and you’ll end up having a much more enjoyable time – especially when it comes to travel days!
• Watch what you drink and don’t get completely wasted. Though in some places it may be easy to get swept up in all the drinking and dancing that much of Europe’s cities love, you shouldn’t get too drunk. This just means you’ll put yourself at risk, have worse judgement, and might have trouble getting back to your accommodation.
• If you are going out partying, have a plan of how to get home. Often public transport shuts down in city centres after a certain time, which means you’ll be taking a taxi – walking won’t always be a safe or even viable option.
• Don’t get into arguments with people, especially intoxicated locals. If it seems like there’s trouble brewing anywhere you are, or some people seem to be getting overly drunk – and it’s making you feel anxious or uncomfortable – just leave. Simple as that.
• Make sure you have different ways to access your money. Savings are great, but you should have more than just a savings account to access. Have a separate bank account, maybe even two, just so you have some emergency funds in case you lose one (or more) debit card. At the same time, an emergency credit card is a good idea, too.
• Keep in touch with people who you know back home. Going off grid isn’t safe, so just let your friends and family know what you’re doing, when and where you plan to do it. They’ll be able to track your journey and will know your whereabouts if you stop contacting them for whatever reason.

Europe is suitably amazing for solo travellers. You should totally do it if you feel like doing so – there isn’t much unsafe about many of the countries that make up this fascinating continent. Cities are where you’ll have to take the most care, but other than that it’s mostly fine.

We would even say that much of Europe is perfect for a first time solo travel trip. You could even go interrailing for a couple of weeks and hit up the highlights of the continent. Or you could hop around the Greek islands one summer. Or chill in Scandinavia. It’s all awesome.

Travelling as a solo female traveller pretty much anywhere in Europe is quite safe. In fact, this awesome continent is a good place to kick off your solo travelling adventures if you haven’t done so before – it’s that safe, that fun, that well trodden and that easy to get around here.

However, if you ask any other solo female traveller about Europe and they will totally have their own tips to keep themselves safe on any European trip – things that you pick up as you go. With that in mind, we have decided to give you a roundup of the best tailor made tips for solo female travellers in Europe so that your trip goes as smoothly – and as safely – as it can possibly go. It’s going to be a total blast.

• Not every place in Europe is the same and the safety, or comfort levels, for a solo female traveller will vary greatly. For example, you may get catcalling in Naples, Italy, some rural areas of Spain will be super conservative, and in Turkey, you may get overt levels of unwanted attention.
• Pick your accommodation wisely. This means looking up places that have good reviews from other solo female travellers; opting for female only dorms; and making sure that the location of the hostel (or guesthouse) is in a safe neighbourhood.
• Don’t put yourself in danger just because you have a tight budget. This means taking a taxi instead of walking at night time – or paying that little bit extra for a secure hotel room in a good area. Your safety is a priority compared to saving a bit of money.
• Speaking of which, try not to walk around by yourself alone at night. You may think it’s just a short journey, but walking alone after dark somewhere you don’t know anything about will just put you at risk.
• Always trust your gut. This may sound like a cheesy cliche, but it really will help you out. If something doesn’t feel right, or you’re feeling uncomfortable, or a person seems weird, don’t stick around out of politeness. Instead, just make an excuse and leave. Or just leave outright.
• If you want to go out at night partying, the safety levels of a solo female traveller depends on where you are. A tapas bar in Spain, for example, is likely to be fine, or even a superclub in Ibiza. But being by yourself in some countries may be riskier and come with too much unwanted – Paris, for example, or Istanbul.
• Watch your drink. Drink spiking is a big issue in many towns and cities and can absolutely ruin a night – if not the whole trip. Never leave your drink unattended – ever – and if somebody offers to buy you a drink, make sure you’re there next to them and see the drink being made.
• Meet up with other women, be they female travellers or locals. There’s a ton of super cool and amazing women travelling around Europe, or living in the continent, and will be more than keen to meet up. Girls Love Travel, for female travellers, and Host A Sister, are two welcoming Facebook groups filled with likeminded women that you can ask for advice or meet up with.
• Blend in with what other local ladies are wearing. Again this is going to vary. What goes in the centre of Madrid is not the same in rural Turkey, or even in London. Not only will you stand out as a tourist (and potential target) if you dress too differently, but you may even get some unwanted attention. Err on the side of modesty (except on beaches, of course).
• In most of Europe, if you feel like you’re in danger or need help, people will help you out. Just ask for help. If you’re feeling uncomfortable at a bar, tell the bar staff; if you’re on the street and feel like someone’s following you, tell someone who looks like you can trust (a woman with children); if you’re lost, head into a shop and ask someone for directions. People are helpful.
• Tell people what you’re doing. Your friends and family will be worried about you no matter how time you call them up and tell them what you’re doing, but keeping in touch with people is safer – and better for your mental health – than not keeping in touch with people.

In general, Europe is absolutely amazing to travel as a solo female. Without doubt, there will be a whole load of other solo female travellers doing exactly what you’re doing there, all staying in a whole host of amazing hostels and guesthouses around the continent.

Accommodation for solo female travellers is available in most places in Europe. Most of the time, getting from A to B is simple. As a bonus, it’s not seen as unusual (in most countries, especially EU ones) for women to be travelling around by themselves. It’s normal!

Women in European society, and within the EU in particular, usually live a free life, not dictated by the men in their lives. Women usually dress how they like, party as much as they want, and are respected. Sometimes, that’s not the case, but mostly, you’ll have a great time.

Of course Europe is safe to travel for families. It’s probably one of the top destinations in the world for families, in fact. Europeans are very much used to the idea of travel with children, so having travellers in their own country with their kids in tow is natural.

Being for the most part, developed countries, the infrastructure, amenities and facilities that you will find across Europe are efficient, safe and easy to use for families; even if they’re not always in English!

If Europe feels like a bit of a daunting trip as a whole for a trip with your family, then you should try and hone in on a destination that you all enjoy. A European city break, for example, will be a mix of interesting history, cool museums and good food; but this might not necessarily the best choice for families with young children.

A beach vacation in Spain, on the other hand, is the perfect choice for a relaxed family trip and is actually a time honoured tradition of many families from all over Europe. These sorts of places will come complete with hotels that have kids’ clubs, family suites and restaurants with kids’ menus.

There’s even the option to go camping, without any of the stress since you arrive at the camp with the tents pre-erected (EuroCamp, for example, hundreds of sites across the continent). Again, this is the vacation of choice for many European families and the sites come packed with everything you’ll need.

In general, Mediterranean parts of Europe are more geared towards families than anywhere else. It’s in the culture: in Spain, Portugal, Italy and Greece, children and families tend to stay out till late, playing in parks, eating and generally having fun family time together.

Aside from beaches and nature, Europe is packed with huge amusement parks. There’s Disneyland Paris, Legoland in Copenhagen, Denmark, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in the UK, as well as a whole load of water parks in Spain.

In general, you’re going to be totally fine as a family travelling to Europe. Most societies on the continent are relaxed and open minded; for instance, you shouldn’t have any problems with breast feeding in public, or finding baby products and baby changing facilities in public spaces.

What are you waiting for? Europe is the perfect family destination and it’s really safe for children.

Mostly, yes, it is safe to drive in Europe. Being such a large continent with so many countries filling it, however, there are different driving styles and – more importantly – different rules of the road and hazards to watch out for. What you’ll be worried about driving in Albania won’t be a problem in Sweden, and driving around the Alps will be very different to driving in Central London.

Driving offers you the opportunity to explore the continent on a huge European road trip. It will allow you to see parts of different countries that you wouldn’t get to see otherwise, and open it all up for you.

Europe may have, in general, some pretty solid public transport, but nothing quite allows you to explore the more remote corners of Europe than your own set of wheels.

One of the main issues with having your own vehicle – rental or otherwise – is that it could be targeted for thefts. This goes doubly for cars that are obviously from outside of the country you’re driving in. You should definitely hide your belongings in your car when parking near beaches, or in city centres, and don’t keep anything valuable in your car at all.

Cars, it should be noted, aren’t actually that useful in big European cities – especially capitals. The roads are clogged with traffic, there’s tariffs on cars (to help ease congestion and pollution), parking can be really expensive and, much of the time, the public transport is good enough to get around.

Highways across most of Europe are the quickest way to get around. These multiple lane roads – often called motorways, autobahns, autostrades, and autoroutes, etc. – can be quite stressful as you reach big towns and cities, with exits and junctions to stress you out; make sure you keep an eye on signs and have both a GPS navigation system and a physical map handy.

Some highways have speed cameras, by the way, so don’t rush. Many highways throughout the continent are actually toll roads and can be pretty pricey – especially in France, Spain and Italy.

Road surfaces are usually good, but in rural areas can be potholed, not well maintained or generally just narrow and hair-raising: we’re talking Greece, countryside lanes in Ireland, Albania, to name a few. Not to mention that these roads will also be pitch black at night time.

Most of the time you’ll be driving on the right hand lane (except in Ireland and the UK), so if you’re used to that – great.

Drink driving is very strictly prohibited. The BAC (blood-alcohol) is usually somewhere between 0.05% and 0.08% – in Gibraltar and Belarus, however, it’s 0%. If you are stopped, breathalysed, and found to a BAC level that’s too high, then you could be arrested, get fined and have your license suspended.

One important to note is that certain countries require the driver to carry certain items in their car at all times – without question. For example, a warning triangle and a yellow high visibility jacket is common in most countries. France also requires drivers to have their own breathalyser.

Another thing: if you are travelling over international borders, it is necessary to have a sticker that indicates the country of registration.

Roundabouts are a thing – you may not know anything about these. They’re sporadic, mostly, but in Britain, they’re everywhere. The trick is to know your exit before getting on (count as you go round if necessary). Remember that traffic on the roundabout has right of way: it’s all about timing. If you miss your exit, the beauty is that you can just drive around and try again!

Children have to be in the correct safety seats for their age (and may not be able to travel in the front seat); many countries also have rules about using mobile phones and other electrical equipment whilst driving.

All in all, Europe is a safe place to drive. It’s a good place to do so, too, with so much stunning scenery to discover off the beaten track.

Uber is safe in Europe, but in some places it is no longer allowed to operate.

In London, in 2019, the ride-share company was banned. Elsewhere in the UK, it’s still very much in use and is safe.

Elsewhere, European cities such as Amsterdam, Rome, Berlin, and many others, all have Uber. It’s safe in these places, too.

You can use Uber to get a ride 24 hours a day, you don’t have to worry about having enough of the local currency – or being able to speak the right language – and arrive at your destination having checked the review of your driver and tracked your journey safely.

The most important thing to note regarding an Uber in Europe is to make sure you’re getting in the exact car that you have been assigned on the app. If a car stops by and it looks like the right make, don’t get in unless you can confirm the number plate of the car and ask the driver their name too.

Taxis in Europe are safe – mostly. They vary, obviously, across the countries and even from city to city within the same country.

Often you will find that taxis are quite expensive in Europe, especially in capital cities, but again: this varies. London taxis are notoriously expensive, for example, but getting a taxi in Bulgaria will be a completely different story. Taxis from airports tend to be pricey everywhere.

Though many places are different, there are some general rules to think about when it comes to catching a cab in Europe.

When you turn up at the airport, or a transit terminal like a bus or train station, make sure you only get a licensed taxi. These sorts of places are where scam-y taxi drivers will be preying on unwitting tourists who have only just arrived in their country. Often at airports, you can find an official taxi counter, so you can pay in advance to get to certain destinations.

In most cities, there will have one or more official taxi company. Make sure you can familiarise yourself with what these look like; the driver will have to have official ID and some kind of marking from the city on the car. Do your research on this before you arrive at your destination.

Flagging down a taxi in most European cities is normal. Just make sure that the taxi driver uses the meter, which they usually by law have to use, or instead you could head to a taxi rank: find these outside train stations, malls and hotels.

A good option for getting a rough estimate of how much a taxi ride should cost anywhere in Europe is by heading online and checking out worldtaximeter.com .

If you’re not sure about flagging down a cab yourself, then you can ask your accommodation for the recommended number of a radio taxi company. Better yet, you could ask them to book the taxi for you.

One important thing you should know about some taxi companies in Europe is that, quite often, unlicensed taxi drivers hang out outside nightlife spots and offer taxis to partygoers. These guys can be shady, have dangerous practises, cars not up to scratch and – especially if you’re a female traveller by yourself – it is not a good idea to use them. Always get a licensed taxi, even if it costs more.

As we keep saying, Europe is big – and varied. With that in mind, it probably comes as no surprise that there are a ton of different ways to get from A to B almost anywhere in the continent. From trams in Amsterdam and rack railways in Switzerland, to continent-crossing budget intercity coaches, there’s a lot to choose from.

Across the continent, most cities and towns have some form of public transportation systems – often very good. These in the form of metros, trains, trams and buses, and even city bike rentals, too.

Buses in cities and towns can vary from the very, very local, to the swish, commuter-friendly affairs with wi-fi and even tourist-oriented buses, too.

They’re usually fairly safe to use across Europe, but it is important in most places to look after your belongings – especially when it’s crowded. Night buses, in particular, can be filled with drunk people (i.e. London) and – sometimes – shady characters.

National buses that travel around certain countries are an option in most European nations. These travel between cities and are usually considerably cheaper than train travel, but also not as nice and not as fast, either. These kinds of buses need to be reserved and, usually, you can get some bargain prices; if you’re on a budget, book in advance.

As with everything travel related, do your research and go with the most reputable companies.

The same thing goes for international buses. They’re usually cheaper than trains and travel some mega long distances – usually overnight, as well. Eurolines, for example, has a network of over 500 destinations covering all of Europe (even Morocco). You can get a Eurolines Pass, which allows you to visit a whole load of different places within a certain time limit.

Another bus company is Busabout, but it’s a hop on, hop off, kind of deal and mainly in and around big cities. Book the leg you want to travel in advance so you don’t get stuck – these guys get sold out.

Trains are an amazing way to travel around Europe. In cities, metro systems and local trains connect the centre of towns and allow you to explore the surrounding area, too. They’re usually quick and efficient and safe, too, but again, beware of thieves that operate on underground services (such as the Paris Metro) as well as rowdy, drunk passengers later at night.

Another thing to note about train travel is to not sit in empty carriages. They may be empty for a reason (i.e. threatening group occupying a bank of seats) or it may just put you at risk, especially at night. Try to stick with crowds.

Trams, such as those in Amsterdam, are convenient to get around tourist sights but can be hotspots for thieves, so make sure to keep your belongings close to you.

Trains are usually clean and run on time, though this is mainly the case for Central and Western Europe more than the former Eastern Bloc countries .

When it comes to international trains, they’re pretty frequent and reliable and can mean that your adventure around multiple countries runs smoothly. Famously, Interrailing (i.e. using an International Rail Pass) means you can hit up a variety of different countries within the space of two months and is popular with many backpackers and students in the summer months.

Sleeper trains, especially in former Eastern Bloc countries, meaning you can travel long distance and get somewhere to rest at the same time, saving you money on one or two nights of accommodation. Though usually fine and pretty fun, make sure you look after your belongings as thefts aren’t unheard of.

You may to take advantage of the Eurostar, too. This cool international train runs underneath the sea between London and Paris, and even goes as far as Brussels and Amsterdam. Check in advance to get deals and tickets from London to Brussels for as little as £29 (around $38).

It’s rare to for something to happen on a train that seriously affects your safety – or your money. That said, it’s still a good idea to take a few precautions, locking bags to racks on sleeper trains and other long distance services, and generally just watching your surroundings in other places. For the most part though, public transport in Europe isn’t just safe: it’s amazing.

Food and Europe is a match made in heaven. Food in Europe is also diverse. This is a continent of global heavy hitters in terms of cuisine. French cuisine? Spanish food? Italian? We mean, this is the land of the pizza after all. The land of schnitzel. The land of French bread, pastries and myriad cheeses.

Where else can you get a fresh, authentic Greek salad or a tapas as tasty as it is in Spain? Or get a genuine brat wurst and a beer in Bavaria? It’s all pretty amazing, guys, and to help you eat your way around Europe with no worries at all, here’s some of our top tips…

• With all those tourists to Europe, tourist traps are bound to follow. These restaurants are usually (but not always) tacky-looking, have English signage outside, might have a tout trying to coax you in and are in touristed areas of countries. The focus with these is not on quality, hygiene or service, but is most likely going to be money. Avoid these. Please.
• Follow the locals. Locals (discernible from how they dress and what language they’re speaking) tend to know what’s good in their own cuisine, so if you’re hungry at lunch or dinner time anywhere in Europe, head into somewhere that’s busy and which probably won’t have an English menu. Someone will help you choose something delicious. If you have to wait, most likely it’ll be worth it.
• Opt for things that have been cooked freshly. The only way to judge this is to either see it being cooked in front of you or to make sure that it’s piping hot when it’s served up to you.
• Similarly, you should go to street vendors and restaurants at mealtimes. Anytime in between may mean that you get served up what didn’t sell at lunch, and which may have been sitting around catching germs for an hour or two.
• Do your research on local specialities. Europe is a big place and though you may not notice a distinct change in culture between the south of France and the north of Italy, or even between regions, getting on the bus and getting off in a completely different place can throw you. Make sure that you know what’s good in the next country so you can make a beeline for it right away.
• Don’t be scared of street food or eating at markets. Though you may be worried about getting ill from eating somewhere that doesn’t look “sanitary,” you need to remember that tons of people eat at these stalls all the time. A good rule of thumb is to go to somewhere that seems to be doing a good business – preferably with locals.
• Don’t go all in too quickly. One of the easiest ways to give yourself an upset stomach is to have a sudden change in diet, and with many different culinary traditions spread across the continent, that could happen. Limit the amount of exceptionally garlicky or well spiced food, especially if you have a delicate stomach, at first.
• Last, but definitely not least, you should really always be washing your hands. This is a complete no brainer, and you should be doing this in life anyway, but washing your hands before you eat (especially before eating things with your hands) is a good way to not let germs get into your stomach.

Europe is basically the ultimate foodie destination. You get a mix of fresh food, cuisines, different traditions, certain meats being used in certain places, fish being more popular in other places, and a culture of long lunches and plenty of vegetables in other places. We love it.

The number one thing, basically, is to make sure you avoid tourist traps. These are unfortunately quite rife in Europe, especially around the sights you probably want to see. Make an effort to walk that extra block to find somewhere authentic that will blow your mind!

Water quality varies throughout Europe, but for the most part, is safe – especially in Western Europe.

In Eastern Europe, and surrounding countries such as Ukraine and Russia, it’s often best to stick to bottled water as there is a parasite called giardia that is present – and which can be a problem.

In some areas, it’s best to stick to filtered waters and boil the water if you’re not sure (do this for 1 minute vigorously, or 3 minutes if you’re at high altitude).

Bring a water bottle with that you can fill up as you go around and be a responsible traveller. We don’t need more plastic bottles polluting the planet!

The cultures, cities and day to day lives of Europe are as varied as the landscapes and climates you can come across here. On the whole, however, Europe is a safe and great place to live .

Defining the whole of Europe as “safe” however is just too general. EU (European Union) countries provide a generally high quality of life, but that doesn’t mean that a lot of countries outside of the EU aren’t safe: Norway, for example, or Switzerland.

Looking at the EU countries compared to the United States, the EU has fewer traffic-related deaths, fewer homicides, fewer cardiovascular deaths and a lower infant mortality rate. In that respect, Europe is safe to live, but it could be argued that these lower figures are a result of lifestyle, and so it doesn’t mean you will automatically become super healthy.

If you do take into account the lifestyle and it’s attractive to you, the benefits are clear to see: many Mediterranean countries – including Spain, Italy, France, Malta and Greece – are high in the life expectancy rankings. Even places like Iceland, Sweden and Norway are in the top 20 countries for life expectancy.

Family and friends are important in many European cultures and socialising regularly, eating meals together – even living with several generations of family – is common in some countries.

When it comes to where to live in Europe, it depends on what sort of lifestyle you are into. Most European countries have similar rural traditions of farming and laid back lifestyles, but it’s a possibility that you could feel more isolated due to cultural and language related issues.

Global cities, on the other hand, provide a concentration of whatever country you’re living in, with plenty of culture to soak up and (usually) the presence of an expat community. Transport in these big cities is reliable, clean, safe and well run, but housing varies and can be expensive. London and Paris have sky-high prices, whilst Madrid and Porto could offer more value for money, but with a high quality of life.

When it comes to living within the EU, you can rely on European standards to ensure that you’re getting the best of your time in the country: there’s directives on things from food and product safety, to labour laws and healthcare.

The beauty of living in Europe is, regardless of where you choose to live, you can travel to any other country within just a few hours. It’s great!

To conclude, Europe is a safe, awesome and rewarding place to live. If you’re at all interested in culture, politics, learning another language, architecture, skiing, snowboarding, hitting up beaches, being part of a global community, then you should base yourself in Europe for at least one year of your life. It really is a cool place to be.

As ever, though, do your research. Talk to expats and locals online, visit a few countries, see where will suit you the most and go for it.

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Europe not being an actual country, we can’t really say “Europe’s healthcare is amazing” or “Europe’s healthcare is bad”, but we can say that – in general – most countries in Europe, especially in the EU, have a good standard of healthcare.

Cities usually have large hospitals that are well equipped to deal with a range of specialist issues and have 24 hour emergency units attached. When it comes to getting advice, hospitals often have their clinics – though there are also local clinics – where you can simply drop in instead of having to make an appointment.

Alternatively, you could turn up at A&E, but you have to make sure that your condition warrants an emergency – a broken bone, for example.

Most of the countries in Europe have some variation of the universal healthcare system. This means that most people have access to a good level of healthcare across the continent, whether it is 100% paid for by taxis as in the NHS in the UK, or if it is subsidised and you pay only a small percentage of fees, like in France.

If you need to see a medical professional, the best way to do so is to ask at your accommodation. They will be able to point you in the right direction of a doctor, clinic or hospital that will suit your needs.

In tourist hotspots, especially in popular resort towns, you will find tourist clinics, usually with English speaking doctors and nurses who will be able to treat minor ailments and injuries. Some resorts themselves will even have their own in-house doctors.

Pharmacies are of a high quality throughout Europe and there are a lot of them. Used by Europeans as a first port of call if they’re feeling under the weather, pharmacists are highly trained and knowledgeable, and will be able to advise you about remedies and medication, but often won’t be able to prescribe you anything.

A lot of pharmacies in city centres are open 24 hours. But be careful on Sundays as in some countries they could close (even in Paris, France). A pharmacist can also direct you to a clinic or doctor relevant for your condition.

You should know your emergency numbers, as they do vary throughout the continent. 112 is the number you can use in many European countries (including all 28 EU member states), but not in all, so make sure you know what you should be dialling if you’re in an emergency.

In conclusion, European healthcare has high standards of service, hygiene and care. Though the same can’t be said of all countries in Europe, most countries – including Central and Western Europe – will be able to offer you a level of medical care that you’re used to in your own country.

Just make sure to European medical travel insurance as it can get pricey. Citizens from the UK visiting Europe can use a European Health Card to claim free emergency health-care.

Here are some quick answers to common questions about safety in Europe.

What are the most safest countries in Europe?

These are the safest countries in Europe: – Switzerland – Denmark – Iceland – Portugal

What should you avoid in Europe?

No matter what country you visit, these are the things you should avoid: – If you’re being robbed, don’t refuse to hand things over – Don’t carry valuables all in one bag – Don’t disrespect the local culture – Avoid being careless when withdrawing money from the ATM

Is Europe safe for solo travellers?

Europe is safe for solo travellers and an incredible experience. Pretty much all countries welcome backpackers with open arms and great hospitality.

Is Europe the safest continent?

Yes, Europe is the safest of all continents. It holds most developed countries and has a very low crime rate. Most Europe visits are very safe.

We’ve said it a lot of times in this article already, but Europe is big. It’s also not a country, being instead a collection of varying nation states from the tiny Andorra, Liechtenstein and Monaco to large, globally recognised countries such as Germany, France and Italy. It’s not all the same. Western Europe differs from Eastern Europe, with Belarus and Hungary worlds away from Ireland and Spain, for example.

With all that difference comes a lot of awesomeness. There is of course, a lot of intriguing history that you probably never knew anything about, architectural relics of royal dynasties great empires that you never heard of, and a melting pot of languages – some oddities, like Basque, some more familiar, like Spanish (and that’s in the same country). It also has some amazing landscapes, from the Mediterranean coast to the Arctic Circle.

Assessing the safety of Europe as a single entity is pretty tricky. For the most part, Europe is safe. There are certain countries that are less safe, certain countries that are more safe, and even certain regions of some countries that are safer than other parts of the same nation. A good gauge however are Europe’s cities: they’re safe and full of culture – intriguing stop-offs along your journey through the Old Country.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Mathilde Magnier

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Is Europe Travel Safe During Russia’s Invasion of Ukraine?

The conflict in ukraine has travelers rethinking upcoming trips to europe. security experts weigh in on whether there is cause for concern..

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Ukrainian refugees walk along vehicles lining up to cross the border from Ukraine into Moldova.

Photo by Sergei Grits/AP

For the past two years, the majority of global travelers have been very focused on one main issue when it comes to safety: the coronavirus pandemic. But that changed seemingly overnight on February 24 when Russian troops invaded bordering Ukraine and war broke out in Europe, suddenly making the conflict—rather than COVID—a top concern for many would-be international travelers.

Following the invasion, the U.S. embassy in Ukraine urged American citizens to depart immediately, and the U.S. State Department issued a Level 4 Russia travel advisory informing U.S. citizens that they should not travel to Russia at this time due to “the unprovoked and unjustified attack by Russian military forces in Ukraine.”

Russia’s actions immediately prompted airspace closures over the conflict zone, forcing flight paths to be rerouted, and many nations, including Canada, the United States, and much of Western Europe, have since banned all Russian-operated flights from their airspace and airports. The conflict has resulted in an onslaught of sanctions on Russia and a spike in jet fuel prices due to the cutoff of supplies from the region.

There has also been a mass exodus of refugees—1.73 million to date, according to the United Nations —fleeing Ukraine to bordering and nearby countries, including Poland (which has already welcomed more than 1 million people alone), Hungary, Slovakia, Moldova, and Romania.

The Russia-Ukraine invasion is now a top concern for travelers

As the world watches the heartbreaking crisis unfold in real time, recent surveys and booking data show that the Ukraine invasion has already resulted in a drop in confidence and demand for travel to Europe from the U.S. just as transatlantic travel was poised to experience a massive recovery surge after being battered due to the pandemic.

Travelers are now wondering: “Is it safe to travel to Italy?” or “Is it safe to travel to France?”—despite the fact that Rome and Paris are both roughly 1,500 miles from the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv.

Despite Ukraine’s distance from many European countries, people have concerns about travel to all of Europe.

Illustration by Shutterstock

Europe flight searches that were trending up in January—following the gradual decline of the Omicron-fueled wave in COVID cases—have started to slump after the February 24 invasion, according to travel booking site Hopper . International flight searches have shifted away from Europe to destinations like Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean, and since mid-February, Europe has dropped from 21 percent to 15 percent of international bookings, Hopper reported. (During a more normal year, like 2019, Europe typically accounts for approximately one-third of international bookings from the United States at this time of year.)

A survey conducted last week of 350 adult U.S. travelers with upcoming plans to visit Europe found that 62 percent are concerned about the war in Ukraine expanding to nearby countries. That was double the number of respondents—31 percent—who cited COVID-19 health and safety concerns as a factor in their Europe travel decisions.

The survey, which was conducted by MMGY Travel Intelligence , the research division of marketing firm MMGY Global, also found that nearly half of travelers (47 percent) would rather wait and see how the situation in Ukraine plays out before making plans to visit Europe this year.

That wait-and-see sentiment has been reflected elsewhere as well. When travel website the Vacationer surveyed 1,096 adult Americans last week, 40 percent said they are reconsidering travel plans because of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and 36 percent reported that they feel less safe traveling now than before the Russian invasion.

Given the concern and unease, we reached out to travel risk management and security experts to offer their insights into whether it is safe to travel to Europe right now. Here’s what they had to say.

Is it safe to travel to Europe right now?

When asked if it is safe to travel to Europe right now, Mike Susong, senior vice president of global intelligence for crisis response and risk management firm Crisis24 , responds with “a qualified yes.”

“The wholesale invasion of Ukraine by Russian combat forces is unprecedented in recent history, lethal and still highly unpredictable as to the outcome and impact,” says Susong, a former Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) operations officer, U.S. Army combat veteran, and a board member of the Defense Intelligence Agency’s National Intelligence University Foundation. “Trouble can travel fast and impact our lives suddenly.”

But, he adds, “Brussels, Belgium is 1,300 kilometers [800 miles] from Lviv, Ukraine.” In other words, popular travel destinations in Western Europe are hundreds of miles from the armed clashes taking place in eastern Ukraine. Currently, the conflict is contained within the borders of Ukraine, Belarus, and western Russia, he notes.

Just one day before Russian troops marched into Ukraine on February 24, Ukraine’s foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba warned the United Nations General Assembly that “the beginning of a large-scale war in Ukraine will be the end of the world order as we know it.”

“We are currently at the middle of the largest security crisis in Europe since the Second World War,” Kuleba added.

The invasion has already ushered in that heightened level of insecurity in Europe and throughout a world that is waiting and watching—often with gaping mouths and tears in their eyes—to see how it plays out and how severe the repercussions will be.

Is it safe to fly to, and through, Europe?

Even if their desired Europe travel destination is far from the conflict zone, some travelers are questioning whether it’s safe to fly across the pond at all.

“Traveler trepidation is understandable, but I don’t feel there’s any need to cancel vacations or business trips to Europe or Central European countries,” advises Dan Richards, CEO of Global Rescue , a provider of medical, evacuation, and travel risk management services.

For some observers, the current conflict is bringing back memories of Malaysia Airlines Flight 17, which in 2014 was downed by a Russian-made surface-to-air missile over Ukraine on a flight from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur. All 298 people on board the 777 were killed, leading safety experts to call for tougher restrictions on commercial airliners flying near conflict zones.

“They’ve put new safeguards in place,” says aviation safety expert John Goglia, a former member of the National Transportation Safety Board, adding that travelers should be reassured that “the airspace over Ukraine is totally closed off.”

“It is safe to fly” within Europe, Goglia says.

Jeremy Prout, a former U.S. Marine Corps officer and director of security solutions at International SOS , a global health and security risk management firm, says that his firm has assessed that it is safe to travel in Europe right now.

“What we believe is that Russia’s aims are really territorial control of Ukraine in order to create an additional buffer from the West,” says Prout. “It’s unlikely that they’re going to use military force against other European nations due to mutual defense pacts in place between the EU and NATO members. By starting a conflict with Romania, for example, you’re really escalating a conflict that Russia is already struggling with at present into a much larger [conflict] and it would be incredibly challenged to fight this on multiple fronts.”

How the Russia-Ukraine crisis will affect travel to and within Europe—and how travelers can prepare

While security and risk management experts for the most part agree that travel to the majority of Europe remains safe right now, they also acknowledge that there are several ways in which the ongoing conflict could impact upcoming Europe trips. The best way for travelers to protect themselves and their Europe journeys is to be armed with information and to make practical preparations in advance of their departure.

Commercial air traffic could be rerouted, causing cancellations and delays

Due to airspace restrictions, international airlines are rerouting flights in order to keep aircraft and passengers safe. At the very least, the rerouting of some services could lead to longer flight times.

“Travelers should be aware that potential commercial air traffic rescheduling in Central European airspace may cause flight delays or cancellations,” says Richards. However, experts say the majority of Europe air travelers likely won’t be affected.

Protests are taking place throughout Europe

Protests against the war in Ukraine are happening across European cities, from Barcelona to Berlin, where thousands took to the streets over the weekend to voice their outrage against the war. “Anytime there are mass gatherings, there is increased risk related to the response of security forces and the actions of the protestors,” says Frank Harrison, regional security director for North America at World Travel Protection , a travel and risk security management company.

Harrison notes that at this stage, all protests appear to be peaceful. “However, travelers should expect delays, restrictions, and opportunistic criminals looking for easy targets, so always be aware of your surroundings. If you find yourself in a protest that does become violent, move away from the conflict area and avoid security forces. We have heard examples of tourists being mistaken for protestors by security forces,” says Harrison.

A large number of refugees are leaving Ukraine

Harrison also reminds travelers that countries in Europe near and bordering Ukraine are being inundated with displaced persons and foreign nationals trying to escape. “For any planned visits to Eastern European countries that border Ukraine, be aware of congestion at the border and the impact of the refugee crisis on transport infrastructure,” he notes.

Travelers who would like to assist refugees fleeing Ukraine can donate to organizations that are aiding and supporting the displaced, including:

• United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR)
• UNICEF , which is working to help children and their families
• International Rescue Committee (IRC) , which assists people affected by humanitarian crises
• World Central Kitchen , which is feeding families fleeing the fighting in Ukraine

Stay informed and let people know your whereabouts

For those traveling abroad, there’s always the option (and it’s never a bad idea) to enroll in the U.S. State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) , a free service that allows U.S. citizens heading to another country to register their travels with U.S. embassies and consulates. This is a way to get frequent travel and security updates for the country or region they’re traveling to, and also reach out for help in the event that commercial air options suddenly become limited.

Travelers should give friends or family members back home a copy of their itinerary, so their network is aware of their whereabouts, as well as a copy of their passport and any other critical documents in case they end up needing an additional record.

“The most important thing about traveling to Europe right now is to stay informed and connected,” says Harrison.

Travel protection services such as Global Rescue, International SOS and World Travel Protection can provide evacuation, advisory and security protection services for those heading into a conflict zone.

Bring some extra cash

Prout of International SOS says that one thing travelers to Europe might want to do is bring a little more cash than usual in the event that there’s some kind of cyber disruption that, for example, would make obtaining cash from ATM machines difficult.

The upside: European countries continue to relax COVID restrictions

The war in Ukraine aside, 2022 is gearing up to be the easiest time to travel to Europe in two years, as European countries continue to relax their COVID travel restrictions and eagerly anticipate what was expected to be a big uptick in visitors this year.

Italy and France recently dropped their prearrival COVID testing requirements for vaccinated travelers ( the U.K. is also no longer requiring a prearrival test), and Iceland and Ireland have dropped COVID restrictions entirely.

Of course, concerns about travel during a war are valid, but it remains true that there are advantages to traveling to Europe in 2022—namely to reunite with friends, family, and places many haven’t seen in far too long due to COVID restrictions and public health considerations. As with the pandemic, the crisis in Ukraine has brought so many people together in their desire to help and support those who are at risk, reminding us once again that we are more connected than ever, even when we are far apart.

Barbara Peterson contributed reporting.

>> Next: What Russia’s Invasion of Ukraine Means for Europe Air Travel

Where is safe to travel in Europe right now?

By Abigail Malbon

Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, worries about travel within certain areas of Europe have emerged – particularly for those who are planning to enter nearby countries. So is it safe to go on holiday in Eastern Europe right now? Generally, the answer is yes; most countries in Eastern Europe remain safe, and your planned trip is very likely to go ahead. However, it’s understandable that some have expressed concern about entering countries near to Russia or Ukraine.

As it currently stands, however, the UK's Foreign Office is only warning against travel to Ukraine, Belarus and Russia specifically, which means that by taking holidays to the neighbouring countries — such as Poland, Romania, Hungary — which are accepting waves of refugees, you could be providing much-need tourism revenue to the right businesses.

Here’s what you need to know about travel to Europe right now.

This article is being constantly updated and was last changed on 30 March 2022. It's always best to also check the UK government website for the very latest information.

Is it safe to travel to Poland?

Poland is open to visitors right now, but since 2 March 2022 areas approximately 3km from the Belarusian border in parts of Podlaskie and Lubelskie Voivodeships have limited access until 30 June 2022. It's always best to double-check the UK government website directly before booking your trip.

Is it safe to travel to Belarus?

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office [FCDO] is currently advising against all travel to Belarus, due to Russian military operations taking place. The UK government website states: ‘There is some risk that direct conflict may take place within Belarus . In the event of conflict, our ability to offer consular assistance will be severely limited.’

Is it safe to travel to Hungary?

The UK Foreign Office has not issued an advisory for Hungary, which means it is safe to travel to, but you should not try to cross the border into Ukraine.

Is it safe to travel to Slovakia?

The FCDO has not advised against travel to Slovakia, although once again, you should not try to cross the border into Ukraine.

Is it safe to travel to Moldova?

The FCDO only advises against all travel to Transnistria, due to widespread military activity in Ukraine, including in areas close to some Moldovan borders. 

Is it safe to travel to Romania?

Travel to Romania remains safe, although you should not try to cross the border into Ukraine. 

Is it safe to travel to Germany?

Germany remains a safe destination to travel to, and any trips you have booked are likely to go ahead as normal. 

Is it safe to travel elsewhere in Europe?

Popular holiday destinations such as Spain , Greece, Portugal, Italy and more are all considered safe to travel to right now, with only some Covid regulations in place at the borders. As we recommend before any trip, you should check the UK and local national government website to find the latest travel advice. ​​If you’re abroad and need emergency help from the UK government, contact the nearest British embassy, consulate or high commission .

It is also always best to book travel insurance with Covid cover , should your circumstances change while travelling. 

A Complete Guide to Where Americans Can Travel in Europe

By Megan Spurrell and Tonya Russell

For Americans, the rules surrounding travel to Europe have no doubt been confusing. Over the summer, amid rising vaccination rates, a number of European countries reopened their borders to U.S. travelers once again. But recently, as the Delta variant has ripped through America, the European Union decided to remove the United States from its safe travel list .

That means that E.U. officials have advised countries that are members of the bloc to restrict non-essential travel from the United States. However, each European nation is free to make its own entry rules for tourists, with many still allowing fully vaccinated travelers from America to enter. So a European vacation could still be possible this fall, depending on where you're interested in traveling.

Whichever destination you have your eye on—whether it's for that first post-vaccination trip or to reunite with family —the most important thing is to read up on the destination's current COVID-19 situation and local travel restrictions , to ensure that any visit you plan is safe, considered, and respectful of those who call the country home. Read on for the current travel restrictions for 32 countries in Europe. (And remember to check back for updates.)

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date. Additional reporting by Julia Buckley.

As of September 15, the U.S. is no longer in Austria’s low-risk category. However, fully vaccinated travelers and anyone who has recently recovered from COVID-19 won’t need to quarantine or complete any pre-registration documents. For those who’ve recently recovered, documentation can be a recovery certificate or proof of positive antibodies less than 90 days old.

Unvaccinated individuals can still travel to Austria, but they must pre-register and quarantine for 10 days upon entry. Quarantine can be shortened if you receive a negative COVID test no less than five days after entry.

The only travelers exempt from these guidelines are those traveling through Austria for business, Austrians, and those who are there for a layover of less than 24 hours. Find more information on Austria entry requirements here .

Croatia has been open to U.S. travelers since July. However, the nation has implemented requirements for entry, including a pre-registration form, which can be found  here . U.S. travelers must also present one of the following upon arrival for entry into Croatia:

• a negative PCR test taken 72 hours before departure or an antigen test taken 48 hours before departure
• proof of vaccination
• proof of recovery from COVID-19

Tourists also have the option of performing a PCR test upon arrival and quarantining until they receive a negative result, or simply quarantining for 10 days.

There are quite a few categories of travelers who are exempt from showing extra documentation—like proof of vaccination or negative tests—including anyone arriving on the country's "Digital Nomad" visa .

Croatia has been open to travelers since July 2020.

Within the country, bars and restaurants with outdoor spaces have been open since February, with some indoor dining allowed. Most museums are closed, and open venues that are hosting larger crowds may require proof of a negative test of vaccination, according to the U.S. embassy . 

Czech Republic

As of August 23, travelers from the U.S. are now considered “Very High Risk.” Vaccinated travelers are allowed to enter with a Personal Locator Form and proof of vaccination, while non-vaccinated travelers must arrive with proof of a negative PCR test taken within three days of arrival, or a negative antigen test taken within 24 hours of departure.

Travelers must show proof that they meet the above requirements in order to enter public spaces including restaurants, transportation, and stores. Face masks are required wherever social distancing isn’t possible, and in crowded public spaces.

Find more information on Czech travel here.

Fully vaccinated visitors are exempt from quarantine and testing requirements. Unvaccinated U.S. travelers need a “worthy purpose” for entry, and must show proof. Most of these are work or education related. To find out if you qualify, here is a list from the Danish government. Unvaccinated travelers must also take a COVID test upon arrival at the airport. 

The Danish government recommends that you print out its guidelines and carry them with you at all times. 

France is currently welcoming vaccinated American travelers. 

As of September 12, unvaccinated Americans are discouraged from traveling to France, and they must have a compelling reason for visiting. Fully vaccinated Americans are still permitted, as well as their minor children, as long as they provide proof of vaccinations and a sworn statement saying that they haven’t been in contact with anyone who has COVID-19. Only Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca, and Johnson & Johnson are vaccines accepted by the French government. No quarantine or testing is necessary.

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Unvaccinated travelers must self-quarantine for seven days then take a PCR test at the end of the isolation period. They will also need a sworn statement saying that they do not have COVID symptoms and haven’t been in contact with anyone with a confirmed case. Children under 11 are exempt from testing.

Germany has also classified the U.S. as a high-risk area, and it will require visitors to be fully vaccinated. That includes individuals who were in the U.S. less than 10 days before traveling to Germany. For unvaccinated travelers, they will need to provide a reason justifying why they need to enter the country. Any U.S. travelers, regardless of vaccination status, are required to register upon entry. Everyone must carry proof of vaccination or proof of recovery. Unvaccinated individuals may also be subject to quarantine pending a negative test after arrival.

Greece hasn’t changed its policies since reopening for U.S. tourists in April. Travelers must complete a Passenger Locator Form no later than the day before they arrive in the country. Travelers are exempt from testing if they provide proof of vaccination. Unvaccinated individuals must show a negative PCR test taken 72 hours before arrival, or a negative antigen test taken 48 hours before arrival. You can also be admitted if you had COVID less than 180 days prior to arrival (and you must have proof of recovery).

There are currently no curfews, but public transportation is limited. Proof of vaccination or recovery/negative test are required for indoor dining.

Fully vaccinated travelers as well as those who have a certificate of recovery from COVID-19 are required to present a negative COVID-19 test (PCR or rapid antigen) taken no more than 72 hours before departure. Unvaccinated visitors to  Iceland  must take a PCR test within 72 hours of departure, then take another upon arrival. (Rapid antigen tests are not accepted for unvaccinated travelers.) They are then required to quarantine for five days, before taking another PCR test. 

All visitors into Ireland must fill out the Passenger Locator Form prior to arrival, and need a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of their arrival. Vaccinated travelers and those who’ve had COVID within the last 180 may forgo the 14-day quarantine period required for all other travelers.

Italy is open to fully vaccinated American travelers and those who can present recovery from COVID within the past six months. All travelers must also have a negative PCR or antigen test within 72 hours of travel. Proof of vaccination requires that travelers are fully vaccinated with a European Medicines Agency (EMA)-recognized vaccine, which include Pfizer-BioNtech, Moderna, Johnson and Johnson, and AstraZeneca; Vaccine records can be shown via the E.U. Digital Green Certificate (download the Immuni app to get one), which is also necessary for most activities in the country. The U.S. Embassy in Italy says that U.S. travelers can also show their white vaccination card from the CDC. All travelers must complete a self-declaration form prior to entry.

In addition to presenting a negative test within 72 hours of departure, unvaccinated travelers must quarantine for five days then perform another PCR or antigen test at the end of the quarantine period. Children under the age of six are exempt from the testing requirement. Masks are required in any spaces where social distancing isn’t feasible.

The Netherlands

The Netherlands has designated the U.S. as a “high-risk” travel area. Only tourists who are fully vaccinated can enter the country, though, under the E.U. rules, some other travelers—like students or researchers—are also allowed to enter. (The full list of travelers allowed to enter the Netherlands can be found here .) All travelers must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or negative antigen test performed within 24 hours prior to departure for entry to the Netherlands. As of September 22, fully vaccinated tourists no longer need to quarantine upon arrival, but everyone needs to complete a quarantine declaration form, even those who are fully vaccinated and exempt from the isolation period. The declaration can be completed online or printed. Masks are required in designated areas, and those who don’t abide will be fined 95 euros.

Mainland Portugal's borders are now open to travelers from some countries, including the U.S. Before boarding a flight to Portugal, American travelers are required to show either a negative test (either rapid antigen taken within 48 hours, or a PCR test taken with 72 hours), or an E.U. Digital COVID certificate proving that you have been vaccinated, recently received a negative test result, or have recovered from COVID. Children under 12 do not need to present a test. All passengers must fill out a Passenger Locator Card before departure.

For travelers heading to islands of the Azores and Madeira, there is also an alternative option to take a free test upon arrival and wait in isolation for 12 to 24 hours for a negative result—or, in Madeira, perform voluntary isolation for 14 days at a home or hotel. Visitors to the Azores who plan to stay longer than seven days are required to take additional tests on the sixth and twelfth days of their stay. In addition to the Passenger Locator Card, Azores visitors must fill out a local questionnaire ; Madeira visitors must register on the region's website .

Throughout the country, restaurants, cafes, and pastry shops are operating, but must close at 1 a.m. Alcoholic beverage sales are restricted, with a 9 p.m. cutoff in shops including supermarkets. Hotels are accepting guests, with “Clean & Safe” hygiene and safety measures outlined by the government.

Americans are allowed to visit Spain for tourism purposes if they are able to provide proof of vaccination. Unvaccinated travelers are not permitted, with the exception of essential travel. Also, visitors are required to present a QR code generated through the government's health portal for entry. The country is requiring face masks in all public spaces, including crowded outdoor areas.

Spain is open to American travelers with proof of vaccination.

Switzerland

Switzerland is now open to U.S. citizens with proof of full vaccination, a recent negative COVID test, or proof of recovery from COVID. Unvaccinated travelers who have been in a country with a “variant of concern” in the last 10 days before entering Switzerland, who have not recovered from COVID in the last six months, must complete a mandatory 10-day quarantine upon arrival (there is an option to shorten this on day seven; details here ). All travelers, including children, are required to fill out an entry form before arrival.

As of June 26, nightclubs are open, though they must require COVID certificates for entry. Events are also taking place, with compulsory COVID certificate checks for any event over 1,000 people. Masks are no longer required outdoors, and restaurants are open for indoor and outdoor dining.

Turkey's government is currently welcoming international travelers , with U.S. visitors required to show a negative PCR test, proof of full vaccination, or recent recovery from COVID upon arrival. All travelers who have been in countries where variants have been prevalent—Brazil, India, South Africa—within the last 14 days must submit a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours, and undergo a mandatory 14-day quarantine, regardless of vaccination status.

The United Kingdom

The U.S. is currently on England’s “Amber List” of countries, meaning that upon arrival, U.S. tourists must show a negative COVID-19 test taken three days before departure; pre-book another COVID test to be taken in England on or before day two of their trip; and complete a passenger locator form , which can be done online 48 hours before arrival in England. Those who are not fully vaccinated must quarantine for 10 days and get tested on or before day two, then again on or after day eight.

Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland also have the same entry rules for fully vaccinated travelers from “Amber List” countries: They must show a negative test taken three days before departure; complete a passenger locator form; and take another test on day two of their trip.

From 4 a.m. on October 4, 2021, England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland will all get rid of their current red, amber, green traffic light system and just have a single red list of high-risk countries. After October 4, fully vaccinated travelers will not need to take a pre-departure test if they are traveling to England, Wales or Northern Ireland; Scotland will still require a negative test upon arrival.

Other countries

As of September 6, travelers to Albania from the U.S. must have a vaccine passport, a negative PCR test taken less than 72 hours before travel, or proof that they’ve recovered from COVID within the last six months. The country has imposed a curfew from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. Noncompliance can result in up to a $7,000 fine. Cyprus is currently open to American travelers , who must complete a Cyprus Flight Pass questionnaire and declaration form 24 hours prior to departure, in addition to taking a PCR test within 72 hours of departure (all vaccinated travelers are exempt from these entry requirements). Malta is open to vaccinated travelers, but vaccination cards must be approved through the VeriFly app. Unvaccinated travelers must submit themselves to 14-day quarantine in a government-selected hotel at the traveler's cost upon arrival.

Romania is open to U.S. citizens, who are exempt from the 14-day quarantine requirement if able to show proof of a negative test, vaccination, or recent recovery from COVID. Serbia is open to U.S. citizens with proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 48 hours. The only travelers exempt from testing have received the COVID-19 vaccines within Serbia. Ukraine is currently open to vaccinated travelers (CDC cards are considered acceptable proof), or those able to show a negative PCR or antigen test taken within 72 hours of entering the country; proof of medical insurance is also required, and mask wearing is mandatory. Unvaccinated travelers staying for more than three days must download the Vdoma app and undergo self-isolation for 10 days.

Finland is now open to vaccinated Americans, and they do not need to provide a negative PCR test. Unvaccinated travelers are only allowed for essential travel purposes, and they must provide a negative test. As of August 8, Americans can visit Hungary with a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of arrival. Poland is open to Americans, though travel is discouraged. A seven-day quarantine is necessary, then a negative test is required. Sweden has added U.S. travelers to its banned list, regardless of vaccination status. Only essential travel is permitted.

Belgium allows Americans who have a valid vaccination certificate. You must test upon arrival, and again seven days into your stay. Unvaccinated travelers must quarantine for 10 days and complete a passenger locator form . Norway is closed to all U.S. travelers, except family members and/or partners of Norway residents.

We’re reporting on how COVID-19 impacts travel on a daily basis. Find our   latest coronavirus coverage here , or visit our complete guide to   COVID-19 and travel .

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Is Europe Safe to Visit Right Now?

When it comes to travel, safety is usually the primary concern of travelers when they are picking a destination. Because of the ongoing war in Ukraine (as well as the current conflict in the Middle East), I’ve gotten many emails asking me if Europe is safe to visit.

The questions are always the same:

“Is it likely the war will spread? What about terrorist attacks? Refugees? There are always strikes and protests happening these days. Is Europe safe to visit?”

It feels like there is a lot of uncertainty. I get it. If you watch the news regularly, you’d think the end is nigh. Fortunately, reality isn’t nearly as bleak as the news.

Having been to Europe recently and with plans to continue to visit (as well as a team member who lives there full-time) I can say this:

Europe is safe to visit.

Let me explain why.

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Is Europe ACTUALLY Safe?

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“If it bleeds, it leads” is the go-to mantra of the news and social media these days. Unsurprisingly, the media have done a good job of painting Europe in a negative light. Something happens, they pick up the story and run with it, and it gets amplified and sensationalized. A politician uses it as “proof” of his larger point, it gets amplified again, and then suddenly, a whole continent looks like it’s dangerous and engulfed in flame. (I’m not saying what happens isn’t newsworthy, but we all know 24/7 coverage creates this echo chamber.)

People also end up extrapolating from sensational coverage and assume that what they read is the only thing going on. It’s how biases are formed. It’s why people who have never been to France think “the French hate Americans” or “the French are all rude.”

Or why many Americans still think Colombia is the dangerous narco-state they heard about throughout the 1980s.

Once engrained, these mistaken perceptions are hard to change. (And it’s not just Americans who do this. Every country around the world has conceptions of all the others!)

Combined with all the fake news on the web and how people only seem to absorb that which confirms their preconceptions, it’s easy to see why Europe looks bad.

Europe is no more dangerous (probably even less so) than any city in the US (certainly in terms of gun violence )…or anywhere else in the world.

In fact, 7 of the world’s 10 safest countries are in Europe (compared to the USA ranking 129th). These include:

• Switzerland

In terms of terrorism, Europe is safer than it’s ever been .

Statistically speaking, you’re actually probably safer in Europe than in the US, depending on where you live and where you’re visiting! That’s not to say Europe is perfect; it still has its issues, just like any destination. But I go to Europe multiple times every year and can tell you that, as a tourist, you are not in any greater danger than you were years ago.

“But I saw those awful protests in France!” you say.

Well, Europe (especially France ) has a long history of protests and riots. While I am not here to start a debate on French integration, the fact is that France has always had an issue integrating immigrants into French society. This has been a source of friction for decades and sometimes erupts into riots, especially in the housing developments on the outskirts of Paris. They also have a strong and active working class which also leads to a lot of strikes and protests.

This is nothing new; the news media are only making it seem like something new because they are trying to tie it to the current refugee situation. There are no roving bands of youths in central Paris and no “no-go zones” in the city!

Not only am I not concerned about safety in Europe, but I’ve also led many group tours around the continent and everyone felt perfectly safe the entire time.

The truth is, statistically, you’re more likely to get hurt in your bathtub than die in a terrorist attack (over 700 Americans die in their bathtub each year!).

I am not denying that there isn’t an increase in terrorist threats around the world or that we shouldn’t be more vigilant.

But you also never know when you could be in a mass shooting , bus accident, car crash , or lightning strike here at home. We’re petrified of being in a terrorist attack while traveling abroad, but we hardly ever give any thought to getting in a car or the bathtub.

Terrorist attacks are rare and it’s very unlikely the war in Ukraine will sweep across the continent or that Hamas will start attacking European cities. The now-endless media coverage when something happens and the fact that is all we hear about make it seem like they are more common than they really are. Since pretty much only the negative things make the news, we assume that that’s the only thing happening.

Rather than violent crime and terrorist attacks, the biggest thing you’ll have to worry about when visiting Europe is pick-pocketing, which can be rampant in certain places. Even so, by keeping your wits about you and practicing certain safety tips , you’ll be able to protect yourself and avoid incident.  

1. Be aware of thieves or muggers working in pairs or small groups – The trick of distracting you (for example, someone “accidentally” bumping into you, holding up a map for directions, or a group of kids playing or fighting near you) is often used so that an accomplice can rob you while you’re not paying attention to your belongings. Don’t fall for distractions and keep your guard up.

This doesn’t mean you need to constantly be looking over your shoulder. Rather, it just means to pay attention and be aware of your surroundings when you’re out and about.

2. Keep an eye on your belongings at all times – Pickpockets love to prey on careless tourists, so keep your belongings (especially your smartphone) out of reach at all times. Be especially alert in crowded places near major tourist attractions, markets, or on public transit. Do not leave your purse or bag hanging off the back of your chair while dining in restaurants, especially on the beautiful outdoor terraces that are so common in Europe. It’d be all too easy for thieves to swipe it without you even noticing!

3. Be mindful of your money – Likewise with your money. Don’t carry every euro you have in your wallet or pocket. Spread it around (some in your wallet, some in the hotel safe, some in your backpack), so that if someone steals your wallet, you’ll still have money elsewhere.

4. Be careful when using ATMs – Only use ATMs inside a bank. Robberies are much more common at outdoor ATMs, and skimmers can be placed on outdoor ATMs (to steal your PIN). To stay safe, only use indoor ATMs.

5. Carry a photocopy of your passport with you – This is a no-brainer for anyone who travels overseas. Put your real passport away in the lockbox provided by your hotel or hostel and carry around a photocopy or a digital version on your phone or in your email.

6. Never leave your drink unattended – This is another universal safety tip, but especially if you’re backpacking and partying in Europe. Drinks can be spiked at any moment, so always keep yours close, or hand it to someone you trust if you need to.

7. Install the Prey app to your phone and laptop – If your devices get stolen, you’ll be able to track them and remotely turn on your camera to photograph the thief (you can also wipe the data and message the thief too). It costs just $1.10/month.

8. Download Google Maps & Google Translate – Download maps of where you are visiting for offline use. That way, you can access them even if you don’t have Wi-Fi or mobile data. Be sure to bookmark your accommodation on the map, as well as other important locations (nearest hospital, embassy, etc.)

Additionally, download the local language via Google Translate. That will allow you to translate things without data/Wi-Fi as well.

9. Follow your local embassy on social media – If you use Twitter, follow your country’s embassy in the destination country. It will not only mention important local events and holidays but, should a situation arise, also publish updates and information there. Make sure you turn your notifications on so you don’t miss anything important.

Following local news companies on social media is also a good idea, especially if there is a local english-speaking news site/Twitter account. That way, you definitely won’t miss any important happenings.

10. Buy travel insurance – We never think that something is going to go wrong on trips. But it does sometimes — which I’ve learned from experience. I’ve lost luggage in South Africa, had my gear break in Italy, and popped an eardrum in Thailand. I was also knifed in Colombia.

While it’s not fun to think about, bad things can happen while you’re traveling, which is why I never leave home without travel insurance.

I recommend SafetyWing for travelers under 70, while Insure My Trip is the best choice for travelers over 70.

You can use this widget to get a quote for SafetyWing:

For more information on travel insurance, check out these posts:

• What Does Travel Insurance ACTUALLY Cover?
• The Best Travel Insurance Companies
• How to Buy the Best Travel Insurance

I’ve had tons of people emailing me recently asking if it’s safe to go to Europe even though there is currently a war going on between Russia and Ukraine. The conflict has been ongoing for years, however, it’s entirely localized in Ukraine. That means the rest of Europe is safe to visit.

Obviously, visiting Ukraine is out of the question (and I’d suggest you avoid visiting Russia as well), but neighboring countries like Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, and Romania are still perfectly safe (just don’t go too close to the border). While the conflict is front of mind for everyone (both tourists and locals), you really won’t notice it in terms of day-to-day events as a tourist. The war is completely isolated to Ukraine, which means you’re free to travel elsewhere in Europe without worry.

While most countries throughout Europe are considered very safe, in terms of numbers, Iceland, Ireland, Denmark, and Austria are considered some of the safest. Other safe countries include Portugal, Slovenia, and Switzerland.

Europe is one of the safest places to visit as a solo traveler and is an excellent choice even for first-time solo travelers. I’ve been going there for decades and have rarely encountered any problems. Just follow the tips above, use common sense, and pay attention. Do that, and you likely won’t experience any issues. I feel safer in Europe than I do in the US!

If you’re a solo female traveler , Europe is one of the safest regions in the world to explore. While you’ll still want to use common sense (don’t leave your drink unattended at the bar, don’t walk home alone intoxicated, etc.), you won’t need to constantly look over your shoulder here.

The tap water throughout Europe is generally safe to drink (with the possible exception of rural areas and some beach destinations, so always be sure to ask locals about the water when you arrive). Depending on where you’re traveling though, it might taste a bit different than what you’re used to due to higher mineral content.

The best way to improve the taste of your drinking water and ensure that it’s safe to drink is to bring a LifeStraw reusable water bottle. They have built-in filters that purify your water so you don’t get sick. Plus, carrying a reusable water bottle will help you avoid single use plastics and save money in the process, as buying water bottles all the time can add up in Europe!

The taxis in Europe are safe and reliable, though like anywhere, you should always make sure you’re getting in an authorized taxi. You can definitely hail a taxi from the street safely, just make sure you pay attention that the meter is turned on and running properly.

While every city will be different, as a general rule, walking around Europe at night is fine. I wouldn’t walk around alone at night intoxicated, and it’s always better to be with a group rather than solo. But, generally speaking, Europe at night is safe.

That said, there are going to be areas of each city that are safer than others. Ask your hotel/hostel staff for advice about this in case there are areas best avoided at night.

I can’t guarantee nothing will happen when you visit Europe . But that applies to any region of the world. However, I can say that the chance of something happening to you is so slim that if you’re afraid of that, then you better be afraid of everything else too.

I get that emotion makes human beings irrational, but don’t live your life in fear of what might happen. If you do, the terrorists win, you lose out on living your life, and we live in a state of perpetual fear and anxiety of those around us.

And that’s no way to live.

Visit Europe. It’s safe. Be vigilant and careful but be even more so in the bathtub as you get ready or in the car on the way to the airport. Those places are really scary!

For more general safety tips, check out this webinar with Medjet all about travel safety :

My detailed 200+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guides and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel while in Europe. It has suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off the beaten path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, safety tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today.

Book Your Trip to Europe: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

For suggestions on where to stay during your trip, here are my favorite hostels in Europe .

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on Europe? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide to Europe for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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Is It Safe in Europe?

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Taking a Euro-trip is often the vacation of a lifetime, but there are hazards to be aware of. The biggest threat is someone pickpocketing you, which can really put a damper on a trip. Thankfully, there are ways to minimize your vulnerabilities so you can have a hassle-free trip and explore without losing your valuables. Apart from theft, it's important to research whatever country or countries you'll be visiting to be aware of any specific risks of that destination.

Travel Advisories

The continent of Europe is comprised of nearly 50 different sovereign nations, stretching all the way from Iceland in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean to Armenia in the Caucasus Mountains, and the U.S. State Department provides travel recommendations and advisories for each one. In general, most European countries are safe to visit, although the State Department warns to "exercise increased caution" for many of them due to terrorist threats.

As of November 23, 2020, the only country in Europe with the highest level "Do Not Travel" warning is Russia, due to COVID-19. Virtually every other country on the continent has a "Reconsider Travel" warning due to COVID-19.  

Is Europe Dangerous?

There's no way to give one cookie-cutter answer for such a large region with so many different countries, and a visit to one area could be drastically different from visiting somewhere else. In general, however, you can travel throughout the continent without much worry. According to the Global Peace Index, Europe is the most peaceful region on the planet and of the top 30 safest countries in the world, 21 of them are in Europe  .

What most travelers need to worry about in most European cities is pickpocketing or petty theft . Thieves are very adept at tricking unsuspecting tourists with well-versed distractions, leaving them without their cellphone or wallet before they even realize it.

The more serious threat—albeit much more unlikely—is a terrorist attack. Major tourist destinations across Western Europe have made headlines for successful and thwarted terrorist plots, although you're more likely to come across conflict in Eastern Europe (it just doesn't get the same international attention).

Is Europe Safe for Solo Travelers?

The biggest worry to solo travelers should be pickpockets. You'll likely stand out as a foreigner no matter how well you try and blend in, and being alone can make you an easy target without a friend to cover your back. While you don't want to be caught alone in a dark back alley, the place where most robberies occur is actually in the busy city centers of the cities most frequented by tourists, such as Rome, Barcelona, and Prague . Be wary if a stranger approaches you to make conversation. Hopefully, it's someone friendly who just wants to chat, but hold your bags close just in case it's a distraction to pick your pocket.

Carrying your backpack on your front is a dead giveaway to out you as a tourist, but it can have value, especially on public transportation. Skilled thieves will cut a slit into the bottom of your backpack so they can grab what's inside and run off; hold your backpack to your chest on metros or buses to avoid that common trick.

Is Europe Safe for Female Travelers?

For women traveling around Europe, you can divide the continent into three general regions. If your trip is to the Nordic countries, including Denmark , Norway, and Sweden, you'll be in the part of the world that is considered to have achieved the greatest level of gender equality and you're unlikely to hear so much as an unsolicited compliment when walking down the street.

The next region is most of Western Europe, including the U.K., France , Spain, and Italy. In these countries, women are also exceptionally safe, and perhaps much more so than in their home country. However, attitudes about gender aren't quite as advanced as in the Nordic countries, and catcalling or other forms of harassment are unfortunately commonplace.

In Eastern Europe, attitudes are much different . In many countries, such as Turkey and former Soviet Union countries, there is a palpable difference between the treatment of men and women. Female travelers should be particularly cautious in this region.

Of course, these are overarching generalizations and travelers should research the particular place they plan to visit for a better idea of what to expect.

Safety Tips for LGBTQ+ Travelers

All in all, Europe is a safe place for LGBTQ+ travelers, especially Western Europe. In big cities like London, Paris, Berlin, and Madrid, the LGBTQ+ community isn't just accepted, but embraced. Even in traditionally conservative countries like Italy, one of the few Western European nations that has not approved gay marriage, there's a vocal LGBTQ+ community and it's safe to be out in big cities like Rome or Milan. Even in small rural towns around Western Europe, gay couples may get some prolonged stares but usually nothing more than that.

Outside of Western Europe, travelers have to be more careful. Many popular tourist destinations of Eastern Europe, such as the Czech Republic, Slovenia, or Croatia, are just as safe as their Western neighbors, but on the other extreme, you have countries like Russia and Turkey. It isn't outlawed to be gay or trans in either country, but there have been rampant reports of harassment and violence in both. Look into specific guidelines for whatever countries you plan to visit, and consider using discretion when your safety depends on it.

Safety Tips for BIPOC Travelers

In terms of physical safety, travelers of color can—for the most part—travel across the continent without significant worries. However, a less attuned perception of racial dynamics is common, and BIPOC travelers in Europe are often subjected to microaggressions that may be considered insulting back home, especially for U.S. travelers. Outside of the uber diverse city of London , it's not uncommon for strangers to try and touch a Black woman's hair, or ask an Asian-American person, "where are you really from?" Even though these moments aren't committed with bad intentions, it can still be jarring.

Although Europe is often held up as a beacon for peaceful societies, there has been a steady rise of anti-Semitic and Islamophobic hate crimes across the continent. Jewish and Muslim travelers, in particular, should consider taking extra precautions.

Safety Tips

• Carry your valuables close to you in a sturdy, below-the-belt security wallet. Men should never carry a wallet in a back pocket. If you must wear a pouch above the belt, make sure it's hidden.
• Know about and study your surroundings for things that make you uncomfortable. Back off if things don't feel right. Don't walk blindly into a noisy crowd.
• While Europeans are generally helpful, it's unusual for them to offer their help when it isn't asked for, so be aware that someone offering you unsolicited help might be running a scam.
• Some European cities are prone to strikes and protest marches. By keeping abreast of any planned protests or strikes via the local media, visitors can stay away from areas where there may be unrest.
• The U.S. Department of State urges citizens to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  (STEP), which helps the embassy alert you in times of trouble. STEP is a free service allowing U.S. citizens and nationals traveling and living abroad to enroll with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
• Look up emergency phone numbers for any of the countries you're visiting. If you will be staying in countries that are part of the European Union, the number across the EU is 112.

U.S. State Department. " Travel Map. " November 23, 2020.

Institute for Economics and Peace. " Global Peace Index 2020. " June 2020.

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Yearning to wander the cobbled streets of Rome, gaze upon the Eiffel Tower, or indulge in Spanish tapas? But there’s a nagging question: Is it safe to travel to Europe now? Let’s dive into the concerns, address the uncertainties, and arm you with insights.

• European travel saw a 70% dip in 2020 due to COVID-19.
• Most European countries welcomed vaccinated travelers by October 2021.
• Rapidly changing travel advisories due to COVID-19 variants.
• Always stay informed and flexible.
• Europe is actively promoting safe tourism practices.

Unpacking the Current European Travel Landscape

2020 threw a wrench in many travel plans. According to the European Travel Commission , there was a 70% plunge in international arrivals to Europe in that year. But Europe, resilient and ever-charming, has since been on a mission to safely welcome back travelers.

Vaccination: The Golden Ticket?

By October 2021, a gleam of hope shone through: most European nations reopened their borders to those vaccinated against COVID-19. But remember, while the jab might be your passport into Europe, the landscape is fluid . Travel advisories and entry requirements can switch in the blink of an eye, especially with new virus strains emerging.

The Importance of Staying Informed

As Eduardo Santander, the Executive Director of the European Travel Commission, aptly stated, “Travel, like all activities, involves some degree of risk. The key is to be informed, prepared, and flexible. Europe is doing everything possible to ensure safe travel during these times.” Following local guidelines, keeping an eye on updates, and being adaptable are your best travel companions now.

The Evolution of Travel Safety in Europe

In the tapestry of global travel, Europe has always held a golden thread. From its historic landmarks to its bustling modern cities, it’s been a bucket-list favorite for many. However, the past couple of years have been tumultuous, leading many to question the safety of trotting the continent. So, how has European travel safety evolved?

A Time of Uncertainty

COVID-19 not only halted travel but made us rethink the very essence of exploring foreign lands. Cities that once echoed with the laughter of tourists fell silent. Iconic sites like the Colosseum in Rome and the Louvre in Paris were eerily vacant. This period saw governments , health organizations, and local communities grapple with the pandemic, formulating guidelines and safety protocols.

Restoration and Resurgence

As countries began to understand the virus better, strategies were put into place. Testing centers cropped up at major airports, quarantine facilities were established, and travel bubbles or corridors between countries that managed the virus well were introduced. All these efforts aimed at striking a balance between economic recovery and health safety.

Digital Health Passports: The New Norm?

The introduction of digital health passports, which carry a traveler’s health details, vaccination status, and recent test results, became a game-changer. While not universally accepted or used, many European countries are encouraging travelers to adopt these to streamline entry processes and safeguard local populations. Flora Goodwin notes, “Digital health passports might soon be as common as our physical ones. They are a testament to the world’s adaptability and commitment to safe travel.”

Traveler’s Role in Safety

While Europe is arming itself with measures to welcome tourists safely, travelers themselves play a pivotal role. Respecting local guidelines, staying informed about destination-specific advisories, and adopting personal health measures are not just essential but a moral responsibility in today’s travel narrative.

Insider Tips for a Safe European Adventure

Flora Goodwin has always vouched for the importance of immersing oneself in local culture – safely. Her top tips include opting for less frequented tourist spots during off-peak hours and always having a digital copy of health documents. Additionally, consider travel insurance that covers COVID-19 related disruptions.

Concluding Thoughts

Europe beckons with its rich history, diverse culture, and unparalleled beauty. While safety concerns are valid, being informed, prepared, and flexible can ensure your European dreams aren’t shelved. As always, let wanderlust guide you but let safety anchor you.

How frequently do travel advisories change? They can change weekly or even daily, especially concerning health and safety. Regularly check official websites for updates.

Are all European attractions open to tourists? Most are, but some might have restrictions or limited hours. Always check ahead.

Is travel insurance necessary? Highly recommended. Ensure it covers COVID-19 related issues.

Are masks mandatory across Europe? It varies by country and region. Carry masks and follow local guidelines.

What’s the general sentiment towards tourists? Europe is keen on reviving tourism but expects travelers to respect local health measures.

European Travel Commission’s 2020 report Country-specific travel advisories Interviews and insights from Flora Goodwin

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9 Safest Countries in Europe: Ranked by Data (Traveler’s Guide)

Thinking of traveling to Europe? You’ve chosen well, since it’s considered to be the most peaceful region in the world, having 7 of the most peaceful countries, according to the Global Peace Index.

The safest country in Europe is Iceland. This is based on data from the Global Peace Index. It compares conflict, safety and security, and militarization. Some of the other safest countries in Europe include Ireland, Denmark, and Austria.

In this article, you’ll see the 9 safest and most peaceful countries in the continent of Europe, some travel advisories, and some sights to check out while there. Interestingly, all of these 9 countries come in at the top 15 of safest and most peaceful countries in the world.

PLEASE NOTE:  The following information on safety is not my personal opinion or from my personal experience. This comes from the 2022 Global Peace Index Report from Vision of Humanity ( Download PDF report ), which ranks 163 countries around the world. Any travel warnings listed below have been found on  travel.state.gov .

Safest European Countries: Ranking System

The Global Peace Index uses three main factors (which are divided into 23 indicators) that are assessed, then a score is given. The countries can then be compared based on this standardized set of criteria.

As a quick summary, here are the 3 main sections that determine each country’s score:

• Ongoing Domestic and Internation Conflict:  Duration and intensity of conflicts, number of deaths, and relationship to neighboring countries are some of the factors looked at.
• Societal Safety and Security:  Political instability, refugees, terrorism, violent crimes, murders, number of incarcerated, and police are some examples of this section.
• Militarisation:  Military expenses, armed services personnel, how much contributed to UN peacekeeping missions, and nuclear and heavy weapons capabilities are some points that contribute here.

The lower the score, the safer the country is considered, and the higher it is on the list. Here’s a handy map to visualize the safety of all the countries listed in the GPI.

The guide is part of an ongoing series covering the best destinations around the world.

Learn more about the  safest countries in Africa ,  Central America , South America , Latin America , and Asia . These are all part of our series about the safest countries in the world .

Safest European Countries: The List

Please note that tourist figures come from the site worlddata.info.

• Safety Score: 1.107
• Worldwide Rank: 1
• Population: 372,295 (2021)
• Capital City: Reykjavík
• Tourists Per Year: 2.2 million (2019)

Iceland, the land of fire and ice, is the top country for safety and peace, both on this list and in the world. If you’re looking for outdoor adventures, Iceland may be the place for you.

You can visit the Jokulsarln glacier lagoon to try and see the Northern Lights, enjoy a relaxing spa day at the Blue Lagoon, or explore the rugged terrain with ATV or buggy tours.

Unsurprisingly, at number one, Iceland is at a Level 1 travel advisory , “Exercise Normal Precautions”.

• Safety Score: 1.288
• Worldwide Rank: 3
• Population: 5.028 million (2021)
• Capital City: Dublin
• Tourists Per Year: 10.95 million (2019)

The Republic of Ireland (not to be confused with Northern Ireland, which is part of the UK), comes in at number 2, and number 3 in worldwide rankings.

The Emerald Isle has lots to offer. I visited once in 2015, having gone to the Chester Beatty Museum, the Stag’s Head pub, and Jameson Distillery. There’s so much more to see, and I would definitely go back a second time.

Ireland is at a Level 1 travel advisory .

• Safety Score: 1.296
• Worldwide Rank: 4
• Population: 5.857 million (2021)
• Capital City:  Copenhagen
• Tourists Per Year: 33.09 million (2019)

At number 3 on our list, Denmark is 4th worldwide, and is also considered the 2nd happiest country in the world in 2022, behind Finland and ahead of Switzerland and Iceland. You can visit the amusement park Tivoli Gardens, the historic Rosenburg Castle, or visit the birthplace of Lego and enjoy LEGOLAND in Billund.

Despite being so high on this list and in the world, Denmark is currently (as of Dec 30, 2022) at a Level 2 travel advisory due to terrorism.

Learn more about living in Denmark .

• Safety Score: 1.3
• Worldwide Rank: 5
• Population: 8.956 million (2021)
• Capital City:  Vienna
• Tourists Per Year: 31.88 million (2019)

Closing out the top 5 in the world, Austria is number 4 on the safest country list. Austria is famous for having many architectural wonders, like the Vienna Hofburg and the Fortress Hohensalzburg.

If you’re a classical music enthusiast, Vienna is for you, having been host to many famous composers like Haydn, Mozart, and Beethoven. You can enjoy tours that delve into Vienna’s music history.

Austria is at a Level 1 travel advisory .

5. Portugal

• Safety Score: 1.301
• Worldwide Rank: 6
• Population: 10.3 million (2021)
• Capital City:  Lisbon
• Tourists Per Year: 17.28 million (2019)

The fifth safest country in Europe is Portugal, the oldest country on the Iberian Peninsula. Portugal gets over 300 days of sun per year, so chances are you’ll get good weather traveling there. You can enjoy such attractions and sights as the Oceanário de Lisboa, the Palacio Nacional de Sintra, or take a trip out to the Azores.

Portugal is currently at a Level 1 travel advisory .

6. Slovenia

• Safety Score: 1.316
• Worldwide Rank: 7
• Population: 2.107 million (2021)
• Capital City:  Ljubljana
• Tourists Per Year: 4.7 million (2019)

Slovenia comes in as the 6th safest country in Europe. Hosting a wide variety of landscapes, anywhere from the Julian Alps to the Mediterranean, Slovenia has a little something for everyone.

You can go hiking at Steska Vintgar, enjoy the picturesque Lake Bled, or tour around the capital, Ljubljana.

Slovenia is at a Level 1 travel advisory .

7. Czechia (The Czech Republic)

• Safety Score: 1.318
• Worldwide Rank: 8
• Population: 10.7 million (2021)
• Capital City:  Prague
• Tourists Per Year: 37.20 million (2019)

Number 7 on the list is Czechia or the Czech Republic. Home to over 2,000 castles, including Prague Castle (one of the largest in the world), there’s lots to see in Czechia.

Besides castles, you can also check out the 600-year-old Prague Astronomical Clock or visit the Adršpach-Teplice Rocks.

Czechia is at a Level 1 travel advisory .

8. Switzerland

• Safety Score: 1.357
• Worldwide Rank: 11
• Population: 8.698 million (2021)
• Capital City:  Bern
• Tourists Per Year: 11.82 million (2019)

Coming in at number 8 on our list, and just outside the top 10 in the world, is Switzerland. There are a lot of wonderful things to do in this country.

You can go skiing in the many ski resorts in the country (like St. Moritz); visit such attractions as Rhine Falls or the Matterhorn; or walk around scenic cities like Zürich or Lucerne. Be warned, though, as Switzerland often tops the list of the most expensive countries to visit in Europe.

Switzerland is at a Level 1 travel advisory .

Learn more about living in Switzerland .

• Safety Score: 1.411
• Worldwide Rank: 13
• Population: 9.71 million (2021)
• Capital City:  Budapest
• Tourists Per Year: 61.4 million (2019)

Our final country on the list of safest countries in Europe is Hungary. Also known as the “Land of the Magyars”, this landlocked country in Central Europe is home to many hot springs and spa towns, like the Gellért Baths.

You can go shopping at the oldest and biggest indoor market in Budapest, aptly called the Great Market Hall. Or you can enjoy a nice river cruise on the Danube.

Hungary is at Level 1 travel advisory .

Safest European Countries: FAQ

What is the safest country in europe.

The safest country in Europe is Iceland. With a score of 1.107, Iceland also ranks as the safest country in the world.

Other safe countries include Ireland, Denmark, Austria, and Portugal.

What is the most stable country in Europe?

Iceland is the most stable country in Europe. It has been number one in the region and in the world for the last 5 GPIs, starting in 2018. Portugal, Austria, and Denmark have also been consistently in the top 5 in Europe over this timespan.

Which European country gets the most tourists?

France gets the most tourists of any country in Europe, getting 217.88 million tourists in 2019. Spain follows with 126.17 million tourists in 2019.

France has a score of 1.895, and lands as the 33rd safest country in Europe, number 65 worldwide. Spain ranks higher than France, coming in at number 20 for Europe and 29 in the world, with a score of 1.603.

Both France and Spain are at a Level 2 advisory due to terrorism and civil unrest.

What is the most dangerous country in Europe?

The most dangerous country (in terms of score) in Europe is Russia, followed closely by Ukraine and Turkey.

Russia has a score of 3.275 and a worldwide rank of 160 out of 163.

Ukraine is at 2.971, ranked 153rd in the world; and Turkey scores 2.785, ranking 145th in the world.

Unsurprisingly, Russia and Ukraine are at a Level 4 Travel advisory, Do Not Travel. Despite its higher score, Turkey is only at a Level 2 travel advisory due to terrorism and detentions.

Which European country have you been to, and what was it like? Where else would you like to visit in Europe, whether on this list or otherwise? What did we miss? Let us know in the comments below!

Hello, I'm Joshua Diegor . My love for travel began I was 18 when I went with some friends to New York City. All in all, I've traveled to 6 continents and 14 countries.

I'm a regular contributor to Storyteller Travel .

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România it’s one of the safest country in Europe.

I would say that Croatia is one of the safest countries in Europe, but it always seems to be left behind. It is also one of the most beautiful.

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More From Forbes

Ready for europe the 20 best and safest places for travel and tourism in 2022, according to european best destinations.

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Ljubljana - Slovenia Church and river Ljubljanica

As countries around Europe reopen borders and relax or altogether end coronavirus restrictions, and as flights, hotels, restaurants and cafes reopen, holidays to Europe  are again a realistic possibility for relief-seeking travelers.

With votes from more than 500,000 travellers from 182 countries and considering the safety measures taken by countries and regions, the European Best Destinations organization (EBD) has released the list of the 20 trendiest destinations in Europe for 2022.

The winning contenders of the coveted “Best European Destinations 2022” title will be promoted throughout the year to millions of travelers — and will be authorized to display the title "European Best Destination" in their marketing.

As “a growing call to consider the coronavirus a permanent fixture in our lives is resonating in the world of travel and among industry representatives,” according to the New York Times , and as governments reopen borders and lift Covid-19 virus restrictions, tourism has been picking up across the continent, despite the fact that the situation in each country is still fluid and tourists, tour operators, hotels and restaurateurs must remain highly flexible.

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An overview of European Union travel measures, including information on the EU Digital Covid Certificate, is available via  the European Commission website and the  Reopen EU platform .

“Discover Europe's must-see destinations, hidden gems and small sustainable tourism places,” suggests EBD - a component of the European Commission’s  EDEN Network  (European Destinations of Excellence). “Today is the perfect day to start planning your next trips to Europe.”

Ljubljana, Slovenia

1. Ljubljana, Slovenia

  Ljubljana , the capital of Slovenia, is a city for the curious and adventurous, a treasure trove of exciting secrets and natural joys.

The proudly green capital of Slovenia welcomes all travelers hungry for culture, art, entertainment and offers broad, green areas, which have made it a global example of environmental planning. Earlier than other European destinations,  Ljubljana  opted for a fully pedestrian historic center.

Colorful history and natural heritage combined with authentic charm, culture, cuisine and varied city life have placed this beautiful capital at the top of the list of best destinations.

Marbella's picturesque old town.

2. Marbella, Spain

Marbella  is known as the “capital of sun” in Europe. It’s a preferred destination for travelers looking for relaxation, shopping, refined hotels and restaurants, as well as local handcrafts, golf, outdoor sports, elegance and refinement.  

Marbella is als0 among the most attractive destinations for digital nomads, sports enthusiasts and gourmets — and a favorite attraction for companies and investors.

“Marbella has developed sustainable and responsible tourism of very high quality and is an example of good practice at European level,” according to EBD.

The historic center with its authentic alleys full of flowers and plants hanging on the walls and balconies are an inimitable signature of this destination.

Marbella’s warm microclimate and year-round sunshine make it an outdoor sports paradise. This sunny destination is also first ranked among the  most prestigious and exclusive destinations in Europe .

Amiens Cathedral of Notre Dame and traditional houses on La place du Don Square at the embankment of ... [+] the Somme canal, Picardy, France.

3. Amiens, France

A peaceful haven of canals and floating gardens that display one of the most beautiful and largest Gothic cathedrals in France, Amiens is also a place to take an extraordinary journey in the footsteps of Jules Verne.

Divided by the Somme River, the city also is well known for its medieval belfry. Shops and cafes line the old Quartier St.-Leu’s narrow streets as floating market gardens (“hortillonnages”) dot the city’s canals.

Ideally located in the heart of the Paris-London-Brussels triangle, Amiens has been ranked as the fourth-greenest city in  France and is the only French city to have three UNESCO heritage sites, including its imposing cathedral and stunning architecture.

The city was a source of inspiration for Jules Verne when he settled there in 1871. The famous author left his mark on the city and his influence is visible in many corners of its streets.

Amiens is home to an international garden festival around the famous floating Hortillonnages that has been voted the  most beautiful City Park in Europe . The Hortillonnages, a 740-acre green paradise in the heart of the city, can be explored on foot, by bike, in a row boat, kayak or even on a paddleboard.

“Don't miss the must-see Musée de Picardie or hop on a bike and head to Amiens Zoo, a real island of biodiversity where endangered species are protected in the peace of nature,” advises EBD.

The ancient theatre of Philippopolis, a historical building in the city center of Plovdiv (ancient ... [+] Philippopolis), Bulgaria, Eastern Europe. The theatre dates back to the time of Emperor Trajan (reigned 98 - 117 AD).

4. Plovdiv, Bulgaria

Besides being one of the European Best Destinations 2022, Plovdiv is the oldest continuously-inhabited city in Europe and one of the world’s most ancient.

As the main cultural centre of Bulgaria,  Plovdiv  also won the title of European Capital of Culture 2019. 

The city is home to impressive monuments of antiquity – the 1st-century theater, the Roman Stadium from the 2nd century, the Ancient Forum, the fine examples of Roman mosaic heritage in the Bishop’s Basilica of Philippopolis and in the Small Early Christian Basilica, both dating back to the 4th-6th centuries.

Plovdiv’s Old Town, the city’s finest gem, is a cultural phenomenon, with beautiful and richly-decorated Revival houses. This destination also has been ranked first among the Best Cultural Destinations in Europe 2022 and has been the most-voted Bulgarian destination since the creation of this competition in 2009.  

Leuven, a picturesque city in the heart of Belgium

5. Leuven, Belgium

Leuven , a picturesque city in the heart of Belgium, east of Brussels, is an ideal destination for an exciting all year round city break.

Thanks to its rich and varied offering in heritage, art, culture, science, beer, gastronomy and shopping, this centuries-old university town invites visitors to stroll and discover everything within walking or biking distance. A hip and urban vibe in an historical setting, guarantees to draw visitors into its vibrancy.

Leuven also nabbed first place in the  Best Open-Minded Destinations in Europe , a ranking of destinations actively working on accessibility, social diversity, solidarity, tolerance and respect. 

With car-free shopping streets, street markets offering local products, this is also the land of chocolate and well known for its rich history of breweries dating back to 1366, and includes a number of well-known beer-makers, among them the legendary and world-famous Stella Artois.

On a central square is the 15th-century town hall, guarded by its tall spires. The building is decorated with hundreds of statues of local figures, biblical characters and saints. Opposite, the late Gothic St. Peter’s Church houses a “Last Supper” by the Flemish Primitive painter Dieric Bouts. Nearby, Oude Markt is a long square lined with bars and cafes.

Oradea city hall seen at dawn, Romania.

6. Oradea, Romania

Considered one of the most beautiful cities in Romania,  Oradea  is a city that fully enjoys each season and pumps live energy in a surprising architectural landscape, which has made it one of the region’s best-known destinations for slow and stress-free tourism.

Situated on the western Romanian border only 300 miles from Vienna, Oradea  exhibits the influence of the occident throughout its long history. Its architectural patrimony is so unique that the city has been voted the  most beautiful Art Nouveau town in Europe .

Oradea, a city of the young, of health and relaxation as well as of cultural events, music, theater and exhibitions spread throughout the year also was voted “the most beautiful city in Romania.”

London Big Ben, double-decker bus and red telephone box

7. London, U.K.

After Brexit, Covid and border closures, it’s high time in 2022 to rediscover  London , one of Europe's richest destinations. Capital of the United Kingdom, London, like very few other destinations, brings together traders, business people, bankers, eccentrics, artists, creators, designers and tourists.

Its tourist offer goes well beyond Big Ben, the London Eye and Madame Tussauds, which will always delight young and old. London also offers urban parks of rare beauty ranked among the  most attractive city parks in Europe .

“Head for Portobello flea markets and colorful houses that are the backdrop to  legendary films like “Notting Hill,” discover the eccentric and colorful neighborhood of Camden Town, stroll among the tidy commercial streets of Regent Street and Oxford Street to the designer, artistic and independent shopping districts of Carnaby Street or Covent Garden — and do not miss the gay and  LGBTQ  district of Soho and marvel at the theater posters hosting world-renowned musicals,” EBD recommends.

Favorite times to discover London are in spring and summer, when it’s less crowded and the parks in the city center and surrounding areas such as Richmond Park are sublime with flowering plants ancient trees and deer roaming freely.  

Historic buildings at the Great Market in Nijmegen, the oldest city in the Netherlands

 8. Nijmegen, Netherlands

Nijmegen is the oldest city in the Netherlands, the second to be recognized as such in Roman times and with a city center full of picturesque, historical locations to prove it.

Close to the German border, the Nijmegen region occupies a perfect position in a magnificent, undulating river landscape between the Rhine, Meuse and Waal rivers.

It’s not just a rich cultural history that makes Nijmegen  one of the most sparkling destinations in Europe: Events and festivals, unique hot spots, cosy restaurants, sidewalk cafes and varied shopping areas add to the liveliness of the city.

Nijmegen is the Dutch destination that has received the most votes since the creation of this competition, ahead of Amsterdam and Rotterdam. It’s also ranked  Best Youth Destination in Europe.

Aerial view of Finland's Lahti and harbor on an autumn morning.

9. Lahti Region - Finland

Lahti, situated an hour north of the capital Helsinki, is a green destination in every sense: The country’s eighth-largest city is packed with beautiful forests, parks and reserves replete with hiking trails and lookout points.

The city also tops the list of the best  sustainable tourism destinations  in Europe and this year was awarded the title of  European Best Sustainable Destination 2022.

A gateway to the Finnish Lakeland – the largest in Europe — Lahti is a front-runner in climate work and a pioneer in sustainable and smart environmental solutions.

Finland boasts more than 188,000 lakes and the water is the cleanest in the world. Lahti is located only an hour north of the capital  Helsinki , its international airport and port, and just 2 1/2 hours by train to St. Petersburg.

From Lahti, the waterway opens up from local Lake Vesijärvi to the pure Lake Päijänne, which is the second-biggest lake in Finland, providing drinking water to the entire region. Nearly 75% of the city area is covered by forest, while 11% consists of bodies of water.

The best tap water in the world, filtered and purified naturally by the Salpausselkä ridges, is a daily luxury.

‘Take a Finnish traditional sauna, swim in open pure lakes; take slow walks in the forest and nights in a private lakeside villa,” writes EBD.

Blue mosque and hagia Sophia in Istanbul, Turkey

10. Istanbul, Turkey

A cosmopolitan city straddling two shores and two continents — with one foot in the East and the other in the West —  Istanbul  is the perfect city destination, with its captivating blend of sights, sounds and colors.  

Magnificent mosques, atmospheric churches, intriguing museums and Sultans' palaces alongside stylish art galleries, world-class restaurants and nightclubs, the city is a fascinating melting pot of the 21st-century as well.

Istanbul has been home to three empires: the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman. And its unique blend of Christian and Islamic sites is present everywhere.

“See the Iznik tiles at the world-famous Blue Mosque, enjoy the majesty of the Hagia Sophia and tour the harem and exhibits at the home of the Ottoman Sultans, the Topkapi Palace” writes EBD. “Your itinerary should include the unique Byzantine frescoes of the Kariye Museum, the Ottoman architect Sinan’s masterpiece the Suleymaniye Mosque complex overlooking the Golden Horn and the Genoese Galata Tower with its panoramic views of the whole city.”

A  short trip across the Bosphorus  on one of the city's ferries will land you at Üsküdar, a bustling town with many important examples of Ottoman architecture and great food shopping. Further afield, the Bosphorus’s villages have much to offer: wooden Ottoman houses, the village ambience of Arnavutköy and the fortress of Rumeli Hisari with its unforgettable views over the water and fresh seafood.

View of Positano, the famous Italian resort on Italy's Amalfi coast

11. Amalfi Coast, Italy

The Amalfi Coast  is not only one of the Europe’s 2022 Best Destinations. It’s considered one of  Italy's hidden gems  and a perfect place for  honeymoon s or  marriage proposals .

With its steep cliffs resembling those of  Madeira  in  Portugal , it stretches for more than 30 miles. The traditional fishing villages of the Amalfi coast are picturesquely colorful and charming as they nestle in the cliffs along the blue marine sea.

In spring, lemon trees perfume the sea air and in September and October the incredible vineyards carved out of the cliffs come alive.

Rightly considered a jewel of Italy, the Amalfi Coast is a mythical vacation spot that has turned the heads of illustrious heroes such as Ulysses, bewitched by the sirens. Amalfi, Ravello, Positano are among the colorful villages to visit.

Panoramic view of Vltava River and Charles Bridge in Prague, capital of the Czech republic.

12. Prague, Czech Republic

In the past, tourists mobbed European cities such as  Barcelona ,  London  or  Paris . But due mainly to the fact that “many travellers have left the big cities, wishing to escape the crowds for secondary, lesser-known destinations, Prague —like  Lisbon ,  Venice  and  London — is much more pleasant to visit nowadays,” says EBD.

This  romantic destination  has ranked among the  Best Christmas Markets in Europe , Best destinations to celebrate  New Year's Eve , Best  honeymoon destinations  in Europe,  Best places to propose  in Europe and  Best Fairy tale destinations in Europe .

Tourists waving hats at the Colosseum in Rome at sunrise.

13. Rome, Italy

With  London ,  Paris ,  Prague  and  Barcelona ,  Rome  is one of the most visited destinations in the world. A true open-air museum,  Rome  is utterly fascinating.

“People come here to discover ‘Roma Caput Mundi’ the capital of the world and the power of the Roman Empire,” explains EBD.

The Roman Colosseum is considered one of the  seven wonders of Europe and the city’s Spanish Steps one of the  best places for a marriage proposal .

For more than 10 years, Rome has regularly been selected among Europe’s best destinations. The province of Rome is a matching frame for the many treasures of the capital and has experienced the influence of the history of the Eternal City.

The region offers sea, hills, lakes, rivers, vineyards, good food and villages rich in history and art.

Panoramic view of mountain scenery in the Alps with fresh green meadows in bloom in springtime at ... [+] the National Park Berchtesgadener Land in Bavaria, Germany.

14. Bavaria, Germany

Bavaria  is  Germany 's most visited region and one of the favorite destinations for travelers new to Europe. An historic region with many legendary castles ranked among the  most beautiful castles in Germany , such as the "Neuschwanstein Castle," a  fairytale  castle located a few kilometers from Munich Airport, Bavaria is also a modern and open-minded region.

Bordering on Austria and Switzerland, Bavaria has an incredible history and old traditions that fascinate travelers from around the world.  

Green and rich in wild flora and fauna, Bavaria offers the largest forest in Europe for those looking for a trip combining nature, outdoor sport, culture, gastronomy and history.

Traveling in winter? Don’t miss Garmisch-Partenkirchen and Oberstdorf, counted among the  best ski resorts in Germany and located in Bavaria. 

The Theater of Herod Atticus in Athens at the foot of the Acropolis hill

15. Athens, Greece

Over the last ten years,  Athens  has repeatedly been ranked among the top Best European Destinations. Visitors return time and again for the Parthenon or the Temple of Poseidon and also to discover more than historic sites in this old but youthful city resolutely turned towards the future.

Still, Crete’s 5th-century BC landmarks, including the Acropolis, a hilltop citadel topped with ancient buildings like the colonnaded Parthenon temple, are among the most visited by tourists from around the world.

The Acropolis Museum, along with the National Archaeological Museum, preserves sculptures, vases, jewelry and more from Ancient Greece. 

“During your stay, be sure to visit the Varvakios Agora, an amazing indoor and outdoor food market, a perfect place to mingle with the Athenians and experience the unique Greek ambience and stroll through the Monastiraki neighborhood teeming with bars, cafes, restaurants, markets, small shops, flea markets and Greek handicrafts,” recommends EBD.

Take a walk and leave the city center to visit the Athens’ seaside, its restaurants and fish markets or take refuge in the green oasis of the National Gardens, 40 acres of pure nature in the heart of the Greek capital.

Red strand in Clonakilty, County Cork, Ireland

16. Clonakilty, Ireland

Awarded by the European Commission for its commitment to sustainable tourism combining environmental protection and local development of regional products,  Clonakilty  is one of Ireland's top sustainable-tourism destinations.

Founded in 1588 by Richard Boyle, Great Earl of Cork, Clonakilty is usually flush with color from the traditional shop fronts and the many flowers and plants blooming along the narrow bustling streets. 

A number of festivals occur in Clonakilty every year, including the West Cork Rally, an International Guitar Festival and the Michael Collins Festival. Music, good food and a bit of ‘craic’ (good time) can be had in the many hostelries of this delightful town.

Clonakilty is not only one of the best destinations to visit in Europe, it’s also one of the  best gastronomical sustainable destinations  and one of the best destinations in Europe for  sustainable experiences . 

Vienna, Austria , one of Europe's most beautiful cities.

17. Vienna, Austria

Vienna  is one of the  capitals of love , in addition to landing among Europe’s Best Destinations.

An ideal locale for romantics, with horse-drawn carriage rides followed by a visit to the Royal Palaces and in the evening, a waltz to the sound of Strauss's Blue Danube to put you in the mood.

 Vienna is also great for a sparkling, original city break for friends and families.

An openly  gay-friendly  city, it’s also one of the  safest cities in Europe .

“We love Vienna in spring and summer, with its parks classified among the  most beautiful city parks in Europe ,” says EBD. The amusement park called "The Prater" in the heart of the city is considered one of the  best places for a marriage proposal . 

For people who want to meet other people, the Palmenhaus, the largest  greenhouse in Europe , houses a bar and a trendy restaurant where you can eat Austrian specialties or drink lighter cocktails.

Famous Chapel Bridge in the historic city center of Lucerne, Switzerland, the city's symbol and one ... [+] of Switzerland's main tourist attractions.

18. Lucerne, Switzerland

Lucerne  is a postcard destination that attracts visitors from around the world.

It lies at the heart of Switzerland and, historically, the Lake Lucerne Region, with the world-famous city of Lucerne (or Luzern), Switzerland’s birthplace. Its landscape is framed by the spectacular Alps, covered in a magical blanket of snow in winter.

It is said that the Lake Lucerne region is a “pocket-size version” of Switzerland. 

These are some of EBD’s recommendations: Enjoy a hot-cheese raclette on a winter  boat trip on Lake Lucerne ; spend a day in the snow at the foothills of the Alps with a panoramic view of the mountains; take a gentle stroll through the city or an excursion on a paddle-steamer on Lake Lucerne and relax in the mild climate of the “Lucerne Riviera,” with its great wealth of wellness hotels.

The idyllic lakeside villages of Weggis and Vitznau on the shores of Lake Lucerne on the sunny southern flank of Mount Rigi offer a variety of holiday experiences.

The famous clock tower on Schlossberg hill, in Graz, Styria region, Austria, at sunrise.

19. Graz, Austria

Although Austria ’s second-largest city, with 250,000 residents,  Graz  is a walkable city where visitors can stroll happily for hours.

In the historic old town, with its roads, streets, squares and courtyards, there is much to explore and even more to be enjoyed for  Graz  is also a culinary capital. At its heart is Hauptplatz, the medieval old town’s main square.

Shops and restaurants line the narrow surrounding streets, which blend Renaissance and Baroque architecture. A funicular leads up to Schlossberg, the town hill and Uhrturm, a centuries-old clock tower.

Austria  is a trendy destination for history buffs, culture and shopping. It’s also a premier destination for those looking for sustainable tourism destinations like  Landlust  and  Mostviertel . It also attracts travelers hunting the most beautiful Christmas markets.

Beach in Bali village, north Crete, Greece

20. Crete, Greece

Discover the secret of longevity by visiting  Crete , one of the best destinations in Europe for 2022.

This  Greek island  bathed in sunshine and warm winds is an ideal destination for lovers of wild life but also for foodies and those looking for relaxation. It’s said that the secret of longevity of Crete inhabitants is its gastronomy.

Visit the historical sites of Petras and Kommos; dive into the warm blue waters of Matala or Falasarna; stay in the legendary city of Heraklion or in the beautiful port cities of Chania and Agios Nikolaos.

Crete is the largest and most populous of the Greek islands, the 88th-largest island in the world and the fifth-largest island in the Mediterranean Sea after Sicily, Sardinia, Cyprus and Corsica.

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Is it Safe to Travel to Europe? An Intel Analyst’s Guide to Visiting Europe

BY Joe Chafetz, Junior Intelligence Analyst & Zev Faintuch, Senior Intelligence Analyst

With the scenes of unrest, sometimes violent, coming from many countries across Western Europe, many travelers are asking whether it’s safe to travel in Europe now. Between the conflict in the Middle East, the war in Ukraine still raging, and various lone wolf incidents of terrorism to contend with, it’s a reasonable question. While Europe as a region is consistently amongst the least dangerous in the world , there are huge discrepancies in security between different countries, cities, and even neighborhoods that travelers should be aware of.

Regardless of one’s destination, visiting an unfamiliar environment leaves travelers vulnerable to risks not encountered at home. These risks are compounded by language barriers, unknown customs, unfamiliar spaces, and criminals or opportunists who prey on the vulnerability of travelers.  

With all this in mind, it’s important to have a reasonable understanding of Europe’s overall safety, and how any risks that do exist can affect your travel there.  

Is it safe to travel in europe now? 

Yes. O verall, traveling in Europe won’t pose many threats to the individual traveler. But part of the onus is on you to stay informed regarding evolving threats. To safely travel to Europe, all travelers should keep an eye out for the following:  

Unrest Regarding Israel and Palestine 

The conflict in the Gaza Strip and Israel significantly heightened protest activities and sporadic political violence across Europe. Notably, there were demonstrations in over 350 distinct locations in Europe during the month of October 2023. In Germany and France, there were instances where demonstrators flouted outright bans on pro-Palestine protests, prompting police interventions at numerous events. Subsequently, France's highest administrative court overturned the ban, although some restrictions persist in Germany.  

Particularly in Germany, and most notably in Berlin, some pro-Palestine demonstrations escalated into violence. On 18 October, prolonged clashes with the police in Berlin resulted in the detention of at least 174 individuals. That same night, an attack on a synagogue in Berlin involved the use of Molotov cocktails, though the assailants remained unidentified. There were also significant confrontations between pro-Palestine protesters and police near a pro-Israel event in Amsterdam on 15 October and close to the Israeli embassy in Athens on 18 October. Some of the major protests have resulted in clashes between protest groups — the protest in London on 11 November (Armistice Day) resulted in over 90 arrests. Protests have and will continue to cause significant travel and security disruptions as they block transportation hubs — either directly or indirectly — and provide targets for extremists.  

As part of the same groundswell of socio-political energy, there has been a dramatic increase in the rates of hate crimes. In London, for example, ethno-religiously motivated crimes against Jewish people rose by more than 1,350% and those against Muslims by 140%. In Paris, Stars of David and anti-Semitic slogans were graffitied on buildings in a move reminiscent of the persecution of European Jews in the 1930 s and ‘40 s. In Lyon, a Jewish woman was stabbed and a Swastika painted on her door. More, and more dramatic, instances of hate crimes are likely in the coming months.  

Threats of terrorism 

The Arab-Israeli conflict is a microcosm for political, religious, and other identity-related grievances and will continue to galvanize actors — both lone wolf terrorists and organized groups — to attack and intimidate other groups in their respective countries. Travel risks to Americans, and Jews specifically, have already increased in Europe. European cities crowded with tourists make attractive targets for violent non-state actors, from ISIS to right-wing extremists. Soft targets including demonstrations and holiday celebrations, provide an opportunity to inflict mass casualties and promote fear. Already, around a dozen airports, and several schools and tourist sites have been evacuated due to bomb threats.   

The rise in lone-wolf attacks has also heightened security concerns, with European authorities linking these incidents to broader developments in the Middle East. A particularly alarming instance occurred 13 October in Arras, France, where a former student originally from Russia's North Caucasus region fatally stabbed a teacher and injured three others. In a separate incident on 16 October in Brussels, a Tunisian individual fatally shot two Swedish soccer fans and injured a taxi driver. Both assailants declared their allegiance to the Islamic State.   

What’s more, on 31 October, Parisian police neutralized a veiled woman who was issuing death threats at a train and metro station. These incidents have also prompted the introduction of more stringent border controls within the Schengen Area, which traditionally allows passport-free movement, reflecting a growing trend towards enhanced security measures in response to an uptick in terror activities.  

While terrorist attacks are difficult to prepare for, keeping abreast of relevant developments can help tourists travel in Europe more safely.  

Theft, Scams, and Threats to Personal Safety 

Tourism is a major industry in Europe, and the beneficiaries are not limited to tour guides and hoteliers. Pickpockets, scammers, and thieves also cash in. There are roughly 5.7 million cases of burglary, robbery, and theft reported to European police annually — and those are just the cases that are reported.  

There’s an expectation that people visiting some of Europe’s dense tourist areas, from Las Ramblas in Barcelona to the Colosseum in Rome, will have valuables such as cash or jewelry on them and will be distracted by the sights or their family members — making them excellent targets for pickpocketing or theft. While outright attacks are unlikely, a thief might try to (or inadvertently) incapacitate you — and regardless, losing your wallet or passport can turn your trip into a nightmare.  

Travelers should also be on the lookout for common scams across Europe, including:   

• The Petition Scam: This consists of a group or individual trying to get signatures for a “humanitarian cause.” The scammers will approach the target and occupy their attention while a coconspirator pickpockets them.   
• Three Card Monty: Often set up near tourist attractions, the scammer has three cups and a ball or token under one of them. The scammer shuffles the cups around and will take bets from bystanders trying to guess which cup has the ball. There is typically a crowd of accomplices surrounding the scammer making it seem as though the game is fair, easy, and lucrative. When the victim attempts to make a bet, the ball is suddenly nowhere to be found. Attempts to get one’s money back can be met by intimidation or violence by the scammer’s associates.  
• The Bracelet/Gift: A scammer will set up a merchandise stand near a tourist attraction and attempt to engage victims in conversation. During the conversation the scammer will tie a bracelet or foist an item upon their victim as a “gift.” However, if the victim tries to leave with the item the scammer will demand payment and will often call over other scammers operating in the vicinity to intimidate a victim into payment.  

Popular Places to Be Careful or Avoid When Traveling in Europe  

Europe is a large place with hundreds of attractive tourist destinations. We can’t put down a blanket statement and say all of Europe is safe for travel now: Some areas, you need to exercise more caution, or avoid entirely.   

Popular European Cities : Where to Be Careful   

There are a number of European cities that receive a disproportionate number of visitors and merit specific attention regarding safety.   

Below are the top five most-visited cities in Europe and the areas to watch out for when visiting them. It is important to note that in all these cities, tourists are rarely targeted for violent crime. The most common crimes that tourists fall victim to are petty theft or other opportunistic crimes in major tourist areas, public transport, or crowded areas like public transportation hubs and markets.    

• The most dangerous borough in London has consistently been Croyden.
• However, tourists are more likely to find themselves in Hackney or Southwark, which also make the top five of London’s most dangerous boroughs.
• The 19th arrondissement is generally considered the least safe. The area around the Stalingrad and Jaures metro stops, as well as Avenue Barbes, are best avoided at night.
• Most pickpocketing and theft occur around popular tourist destinations, including the Eiffel tower, the Louvre, at Trocadero, and on bridges and quais along the Seine.
• The Termini station and its surrounding areas can become sketchy at night, and the Trastevera area — including the piazza Trilussa — is known for occasional alcohol-fueled fights and opportunistic crime.

4. Amsterdam

• Most of Amsterdam’s violent crime is confined to the peripheries of the city. But the Redlight District, and the area around Centraal (the central public transportation hub) host drug traffickers, occasional alcohol-fueled fights, and opportunistic crimes.

5. Barcelona

• Barcelona, like Amsterdam, sees most of its violent crime confined to non-tourist areas.
• The area along the beach, and the areas surrounding major tourist attractions such as the Sagrada Familia and La Rambla see the highest levels of pickpocketing. This analyst has even experienced this phenomenon first-hand. 

Where to Avoid Traveling in Europe  

Global Guardian strongly advises our clients, particularly American travelers, to exercise heightened caution and consider avoiding travel to certain European countries altogether. These recommendations are based on a thorough assessment of current geopolitical and security situations. Among the countries identified, Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus are of particular concern due to ongoing political tensions and potential security risks and should be avoided.  

In addition to these Eastern European nations, caution is also advised when considering travel to eastern Moldova and southern Turkey. These regions may pose specific challenges, ranging from political instability to localized security issues. It is essential for travelers to stay informed about the latest developments, adhere to any travel advisories issued by relevant authorities, and consider alternative destinations if possible.  

How to Prepare for Your Europe Trip

• Maintain awareness: Awareness is paramount to mitigating risk — and avoiding a potentially dangerous predicament. As a rule, it is always best to blend in when possible. Sticking out — by being loud or wearing very different or expensive-looking clothing — can make someone into a target for theft or worse. In general, don’t walk alone at night. If you’re in a crowded space, indoors or outdoors, always know where the nearest exit is. Finally, most crimes are opportunistic. Traveling in a group deters most petty criminals from targeting you.
• Do your research: Take some time to research your planned destinations. Get a sense of what’s going on politically and pay attention to front page news stories. While you’re at it, check your healthcare coverage, and make sure to bring your medications in their original, name-identified bottles, as some prescriptions (for depression, anxiety, ADD, and painkillers) won’t be available to refill. If you know a local, ask them about areas or places to avoid or practice caution. Just like in North America, the summer in Europe is wildfire season, so be on the lookout, especially for destinations in the south, for heat warnings as they often precede fires that could create adverse health conditions or disrupt flights and other transportation.
• Prepare for all outcomes:  Our unofficial motto here at Global Guardian is “have a plan.” Know where to go if your passport is lost or stolen and write down critical phone numbers, addresses (think embassies or hospitals, locals you know) or health card information on a piece of paper (but don’t include any passwords, social security numbers or anything else that could compromise you) in the event your phone is stolen. Labor action is practically a national sport in many European countries, making strikes affecting public transportation possible. Have a backup plan for getting from one stop to the next – you won’t be the only person scrambling to get a ride-sharing service, train, flight, or boat in the event your primary mode of transportation is delayed or cancelled.

Ultimately, travel to Europe can be as safe as you make it. If you know what to look for, where to avoid, what to do in certain situations, pay attention to the news, and have a plan in place for untoward events, you can insulate yourself from the vast majority of travel risks. But if you are apprehensive, having trouble figuring out where to start your preparations, or would like specific advice and recommendations, travel security firms can be a powerful resource. From stolen passports to terrorist attacks, firms of this nature also have the capability to assist you in real-time for almost any issue that may arise.  

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The Global G uardian team is standing by to support your security and medical requirements when traveling to and staying in Europe, including:

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To learn more about our pre-trip and crisis response services, complete the form below or call us at + 1 (703) 566-9463.

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What to know about Schengen zone, Europe’s ‘border-free’ travel system

Schengen countries allow international travelers to move freely across borders without additional passport checks.

Europe’s “border-free” Schengen zone has added travel protections for two more countries, making it easier for more people to explore the southeastern region of the continent.

Romania and Bulgaria partially joined the Schengen area on Sunday, which means visitors who arrive by air or sea from other countries in the zone can cross their borders without an ID check. Land borders will remain subject to ID checks because of opposition led by Austria, which has long cited irregular migration as a concern when it comes to welcoming the two Eastern European states into the Schengen agreement. The move comes more than a decade after Romania and Bulgaria joined the European Union.

The European Commission had previously recommended that Bulgaria and Romania be admitted to join the Schengen zone, starting in 2011 and most recently in 2023. A combination of internal problems in the two countries and opposition from other countries citing irregular migration concerns — especially after the so-called “migrant crisis” of 2015 — meant they were caught in “Schengen purgatory” until now, according to Leon Züllig, a researcher and Schengen expert at Germany’s Justus Liebig University Giessen.

Where to go

Our favorite destinations: These 12 destinations are at the top of our wish list for where to go this year, without crowds. In 2023, we explored an Alaskan bear paradise, Brooklyn’s famous pizzerias and a hidden gem in Italy, among other highlights ..

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National parks: This comprehensive guide has details on all 63 U.S. national parks. For a deep dive into five of the most well-known, you can listen to the Field Trip podcast . Then explore tips from locals for visiting Yosemite , Glacier and Everglades .

Tales from the road: Dolly Parton has opened a new resort at her theme park complex in Tennessee, while “Fixer Upper” stars Chip and Joanna Gaines have a new hotel in Waco . Road-trippers may be just as excited to see the cartoon beaver at Buc-ee’s , and bargain-hunters should consider a stop at the Unclaimed Baggage store in Scottsboro, Ala.

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Thinking of a family trip to Europe? These are the safest and most affordable spots

These safe and budget-friendly destinations offer something for every family member to enjoy

Credit: 123rf

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Travelling with family holds its own special charm, yet the prospect of organising a trip for the entire family can often feel daunting due to the hefty price tag . But fret not!

A recent study conducted by Deluxe Holiday Homes has unveiled Europe’s most budget-friendly destinations for safe and enjoyable family travel. The study analysed data from Google Flights, focusing on the ten most searched travel destinations in Europe. Criteria such as safety ratings, availability of family-friendly accommodations on booking.com, average cost of a family room, and dining expenses for a family of four were meticulously assessed for each destination.

Subsequently, these destinations were ranked based on a composite score, considering both safety rates and overall affordabilit y (weighted equally at 50% each).

Here, the ultimate guide to family-friendly and safe travel destinations promises adventure, cultural immersion, and unforgettable experiences without straining your wallet.

Related: 10 staycation ideas for the perfect babymoon

Related: How to travel with your friends without fighting with them

Related: 10 travel destinations for solo female travellers

Romania leads the list of the most affordable destinations for safe family travel with a composite score of 74.7. This destination is attractive for families thanks to the cheap experience it offers with the lowest costs for family rooms at $135 and dining out at $35.

The Czech Republic, with its 68.8 score, is the 2nd most affordable destination for safe family vacation. The safety rate here is higher than in Romania, while the accommodation and eating out costs are slightly elevated, ranking it 2nd.

The 3rd most affordable destination for safe family vacation is Croatia with a score of 67.7. Croatia draws families with the highest safety rate among the countries on the list, combined with affordable costs for accommodation and eating out.

Finland is the 4th most affordable destination for safe family travel, with a composite score of 64.9. Finland provides high safety across the country and is a great choice for families enjoying Nordic experience.

The most searched country on the list, Portugal, stands 5th in the ranking. Portugal offers more affordable options for staying and eating out than Finland and Croatia, regardless of the safety rate being slightly lower.

Netherlands ranks 6th on the list, with a composite score of 63.7. The Netherlands is appealing to families for the safety it provides, and is the 3rd most searched country for vacation, even with the highest family room rates on the list at $300 .

Spain takes the 7th spot on the list of the most affordable destinations for safe family vacation with a 63.3 score. Spain offers a great number of family accommodations at 9.6K (the highest on the list) combined with accessible prices.

Germany, scoring 61.6, is the 8th most affordable destination for safe family vacation. Its appeal is based on the blend of safety, high availability of family accommodations, with lesser costs of accommodation and eating out.

Coming 9th on the list of the most affordable destinations for safe family vacation, Malta has a composite score of 57.5. Even with the least family accommodation options on the list, Malta still attracts families with rich history and Mediterranean charm.

Belgium rounds off the list of the most affordable destinations for safe family travel. It’s still an affordable and safe destination worldwide, even with the lowest safety rate and the highest eating out prices on this ranking.

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100+ Europe Travel Tips for First Timers & Must-Knows Before You Go

Last Updated: November 6, 2023

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Headed to Europe for the first time and trying not to cry?

I get it. You’re probably a hot mess of emotion right now. Between the excitement of ticking off bucket list moments and the anxiety of getting pickpocketed or (possibly worse) getting side-eyed by cool European youths, there’s a lot of potential for stress carbs and sheer overwhelm.

Don’t worry though – I have all the Europe tips you need in this post to keep those first time jitters at bay, and ensure you’re fully prepared for your big European adventure.

So, what are some must-knows before you travel to Europe for the first time? Read on for a full of my best Europe travel tips, after over a decade of travelling around/living on this gorgeous and delicious continent.

NOTE: As an aggressively apologetic Canadian, I must first clarify that these European travel tips are written from a North American perspective, and there are some culture shocks that (while seemingly basic) can really confuse a 1st time visitor, so… yes, this is just me covering all the bases. Enjoy!

Save this list of Europe Travel Tips for Later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

Europe Travel Planning Tips

Let’s start with some planning-related Europe tips to help you with flights, booking hotels in Europe, choosing dates, the best times to visit Europe, etc. to get you from armchair travel to your real-life dream trip.

Steal my step by step guide to planning a trip to Europe from scratch

This post is full of random Europe travel tips, but if you are looking more for step by step guidance, be sure to check out my step by step guide to planning a Europe trip.

Also be sure to check out my free Europe trip planner book , as well as my free International Travel Checklist for a list of things to do before you travel abroad.

Avoid peak travel times

If you have the luxury of flexibility, I’d avoid visiting Europe between mid-June to the end of August.

Simply put, this is when prices and crowds are at their highest, and (depending on where you go) temperatures during this season can reach a point of salty, sweaty discomfort.

Instead, consider going in the Spring , Fall or Winter!

Avoid European holidays

In addition to avoiding North American holiday periods, be sure to also consider popular European school holidays too.

Generally, speaking longer European school holidays will take place during Easter/Christmas, a very popular time for European families to travel around the continent too.

Yes, Europeans can be avid tourists too. Don’t forget that!

Go for Christmas markets!

Okay, this may be a direct contradiction to what I said above, but one exception I’d make for “peak season travel” in Europe is going to Christmas markets.

This is one of the most magical times to visit Europe, and if you plan your visit for earlier in the season (late November, rather than close to Christmas), you’ll usually be able to avoid the bulk of the crowds.

Here are my top must-knows for visiting Christmas markets in Europe if you want to learn more.

Consider getting a travel credit card

I’m going to level with you: no matter how you plan it, even if you stay in hostels and subsist solely on hummus and bread scraps, you will end up spending a lot of money on your Europe trip.

… so you might as well try to reap as many rewards from it as possible!

Getting a travel rewards credit card before booking all your hotels and flights is one of my favourite underrated Europe travel tips.

There’s a million options out there, so I’ll leave the research/choice up to you, but just make sure you’re booking everything on a card that maximizes the amount of benefits you get.

For me personally, I have the Amex Platinum , which yes has a really high fee but at least for the first year it’s super worth it because you get travel credits, travel insurance, lounge access, and most importantly, enough bonus sign-up points to get you a roundtrip flight to Europe from North America! It’s not for everyone, but definitely worth looking into.

Bonus sneaky point hoarding tip: Travelling with friends? Especially if they don’t collect points of their own, offer to book for everyone, then have them pay you back. Whee – free points without needing to spend all the money!

Get a Wise card

If you’re not interested in getting a travel credit card, a handy and free alternative I can highly recommend is a Wise card.

Having a Wise card allows you to “send and spend money around the world at the real exchange rate”, avoiding hidden fees in the process.

It is SO handy for travel, because you can use it for over 150 currencies around the world, and you even get 2 free ATM withdrawals per month with it overseas.

And because your card is linked to your Wise account, you can simply load it up with a minimal amount of money so you don’t have to risk your normal credit/debit cards while walking around.

You can use my referral link here to transfer your first $500 fee-free.

NOTE: I’ve also had a good experience with Revolut when I lived in Germany, but they don’t offer services for Canadians so I can no longer use them.

Focus on one or two countries for shorter trips

Unless you have a lot of time to work with, I would recommend getting to know one or two countries well rather than trying to visit too many countries in one go just for the sake of checking them off your list.

While travelling between European countries can be affordable and quick, hopping around too much can be a sure recipe for burnout and time lost commuting.

Plus, the more you see of one country, the more you’re able to get more off-the-beaten path and find spots you hadn’t heard of before!

Check out my list of 1 week itineraries for Europe if you need inspiration.

Learn all about the Schengen Area

An important must-know for all first time visitors to Europe is that border-free travel doesn’t exist across the continent (as is commonly believed).

Rather, border-free travel apples only between countries in the Schengen Area, this group of 27 countries (accurate as of 2023):

• Liechtenstein
• The Netherlands
• Switzerland 

When crossing borders outside of these countries, you will need to clear passport control as normal.

Understanding this distinction will help you plan how long you can stay in different countries, as well as Europe in general, and give you some insight into logistics like when you’ll need to clear passport control, and which visas you might need for where.

Use your understanding of the Schengen Zone to legally stay in Europe longer

For most tourists, the maximum amount of time you can spend in the Schengen Zone is 90 days out of 180 days .

Simply put, if by the time you leave, you can look back on the past 180 days and say you stayed less than 90 days total, you’re good.

BUT if you want to stay in Europe for longer than that amount of time, you can utilize your Schengen Area understanding to stay longer, simply by including travel to non-Schengen countries.

For example: Let’s say you can only spend 90 days in the Schengen Zone, but you’re allowed to spend 180 total in the UK. You can easily make your European trip longer than 90 days by adding time in the UK, Ireland, Bulgaria, Romania or any other non-Schengen country.

Consider more off-the-beaten path destinations

Another benefit of visiting non-Schengen countries is they’re often lesser visited, and filled with some truly amazing hidden gems.

For example, I’m a HUGE fan of Bulgaria. (Here are some of the coolest things to do in Bulgaria that you probably haven’t heard of.)

While I totally understand the desire to see the most popular and best-known destinations on your trip, sometimes visiting these lesser known spots can bring amazing surprises that end up being the highlight of your vacation!

Of course, there’s a middle ground too – you can easily get the ‘best of both worlds’ by combining a hugely popular destination with some side trips to other lesser known places in the same country. These posts might help with that:

• The Best Places to Visit in England (Besides London)
• The Best Places to Visit in France (Besides Paris)

Offset pricey destinations with more budget-friendly ones

If you’re hoping to visit Europe on a budget, but still have some pricier destinations on your bucket list (e.g. Switzerland, Norway, Sweden, Iceland, UK, Germany, etc.), then a great way to cut costs is to round out your itinerary with more affordable stops (e.g. Bulgaria, Romania, Poland, Montenegro, Lithuania, etc.)

This of course makes more sense on longer trips where you’ll be covering a lot of ground, but just remember than some European destinations are MUCH rougher on the budget than others, so mix it up if you’re looking to give your wallet a break.

Alternate between busy and chill destinations

On a similar note, you should make sure your Europe trip itinerary also includes a mix of busy and relaxed places.

One of the biggest mistakes I made during my first backpacking trip was I crammed SO many huge cities into my itinerary, one after another.

But when your itinerary is nothing but European heavyweights like Paris, London, Amsterdam, Rome and Florence… yikes, you’ll be sightseeing your eyeballs off daily with zero chance for breaks.

So, here’s a very important Europe travel tip when planning your itinerary: try to space out the “big” cities with chiller destinations, maybe nature or beach breaks so you have time to rest up before sightseeing like the Energizer bunny once more.

Learn the tricks to getting cheap flights TO Europe

Not sure how to get the best flight deals for your big Europe trip? Be sure to check out my guide on how to get the cheapest flights to Europe .

I promise it’ll save you hundreds of dollars, if not more.

Take advantage of free stopovers

Certain airlines have a free stopover program where you can have a long layover for no extra cost, meaning you get two destinations for the price of one plane ticket!

Here are some Europe-based airlines that offer this:

• IcelandAir: Free stopovers in Reykjavik for 1-7 days
• Iberia: Free stopovers in Madrid for 1-6 nights
• TAP Portugal: Free stopovers in Lisbon and Porto for 1-5 nights

Steal my step by step process for finding the best hotels

If you’re overwhelmed by the prospect of booking all your own places to stay, I have just the resource for you.

Here’s how to find the best accommodation in Europe every time.

Book hotels far in advance

And if you don’t have time to check out my whole step by step process, then here’s the #1 piece of Europe accommodation wisdom I can give you: book your hotels as soon as possible.

In many of Europe’s most popular destinations, good value accommodation books out quickly, so your biggest defense against outrageous prices and poor quality hotels is booking early.

Even if you’re not going in peak season, you never know when an unexpected event (e.g. a big concert, sports game or conference) will send hotel prices soaring, so the sooner you book, the better.

I know that committing to a hotel early can feel scary, but if you use  Booking.com , you can find hundreds of hotels that offer free reservations and free cancellations up until a certain point.

I’ll often hop on Booking.com to make a placeholder / “just in case” reservation in the early stages of my planning just to ensure I have a Plan B in case prices skyrocket.

The European hotel star system is different to North America

I grew up with a North American hotel system where 5* meant opulent luxury and 1* meant run for the hills, unless you want to lose your kidneys.

The star ratings in Europe are a bit different. Instead of stars coinciding to quality on a scale of 1-5, the stars actually correspond to a checklist of amenities/requirements.

SO, you can get some amazing 2* properties that are simply smaller and don’t really have things like a spa or pool, while also finding crappy 4 or 5* properties that have that rating just because they’re big and have amenities like fitness centers and valets (i.e. many chains).

Learn more about the criteria for star ratings here.

Avoid airport hotels unless flying in or out

Tempted by a cheap hotel deal near the airport? Run.

Unless you are flying into your destination late and need a place to crash or are flying out early in the morning, do NOT book a stay at any airport hotels.

With Europe travel, you want to ideally be close to the sights or at least in a scenic neighbourhood, not next to a motorway. Adding in the time and cost of commuting to/from the city centre, it’s rarely worth it so keep that in mind the next time you’re tempted by the siren’s call of an airport Ibis.

Learn the options for free accommodation in Europe

Hoping to find places to stay for free in Europe? There are indeed options for that!

Here are a few ways you can potentially find accommodation for free:

• Couchsurfing:   Crashing with someone within a community of travellers where people offer to host each other in their homes free of charge
• House Swap: Trading homes with someone (like in The Holiday). Many sites facilitate these exchanges, including  HomeExchange  and  Kindred
• House and Pet Sitting:  Looking after someone’s house/pets in exchange for free accommodation. One of the most popular platforms for this is  Trusted Housesitters
• Workaway:  Volunteering your time/services in exchange for accommodation

Don’t forget travel insurance

I personally believe that travel insurance is a must for every trip. Trust me, the peace of mind is worth the cost!

Click here to check rates with WorldNomads.

Make sure you’ll have Internet access

This tip goes without saying, but if you’re old school and prefer to travel without Internet, don’t.

Really, as romantic as it is to disconnect during your travels, having an Internet plan for your phone is crucial. It allows you to navigate with Google Maps, use translation apps, do research on the go, etc.

Without it, your trip will be infinitely harder. No joke – some places these days even require you to have data to scan menus!

Luckily, roaming within the EU is free, and it’s wayyyy cheaper than what we have in Canada.

Download helpful apps before you go

On that note, once you have a data plan set up, you can take advantage of all the helpful apps for Europe travel available.

Some of my favourites include…

• Omio : Great for comparing and booking transport options (including buses, trains, and flights) from Point A to Point B.
• Google Translate : A must for translating signs and menus if you are in a country where English isn’t the main language
• Splitwise : Helpful for tracking expenses split between friends, great for minimizing awkwardness when dealing with trip finances
• Too Good to Go : Perfect for buying discounted meals at the end of the day to save food from going to waste

Download TripIt to keep track of all your travel bookings

Speaking of helpful Europe travel apps, another one I can recommend is TripIt.

This app works like magic to organize your hotel bookings, flights, tickets and all in one place… the best thing is, it does it automatically through scanning your inbox for confirmation emails.

If you’re planning a long trip with multiple stops, hotels, modes of transport, etc. to worry about, then TripIt is a great tool for organizing everything in one neat place.

Ensure you have proof of onward travel

“Proof of onward travel”  is a very important consideration that many first-time travellers forget about.

In sum, it’s proof that you’re leaving your destination before your visa or allowance expires.

Usually this proof is provided in the form of a ticket back home, or a ticket elsewhere to prove that you’ll be leaving at some point.

A lot of people dismiss this requirement as a myth, but trust me: it’s not.

I was once almost barred from boarding a flight to Germany because my return flight was after the 90 day Schengen Zone allowance, and I didn’t have proof I would be leaving the Schengen Zone before the 90 days was over. I intended to spend some time out of the Schengen Zone to ensure I never overstayed, but they demanded proof… so yes, they do check!

Want to learn more?  I have a full article if you want to read more about  proof of onward travel  and my experience lawyer-ing myself out of that (very awkward) situation.

Steal my pre-made itineraries

Lastly Europe travel planning tip: I know that making itineraries can be exhausting, but luckily there are Type A laptop gremlins like me who adore doing it.

So, here are some itineraries for you to steal in case you need them:

• My 1.5 month Western Europe backpacking itinerary
• My 40+ one week in Europe itineraries

Europe Travel Tips for Transport & Getting Around

Getting around Europe can be really daunting for a first-time visitor, so here are all my best Europe tips related to transport and getting from one place to another.

Public transport is abundant and amazing

Don’t be afraid of using it!

I’m always shocked when I hear travellers who think that they’ll need to rent a car for their Europe trip.

Oftentimes, you really won’t need to, especially if you’re mainly visiting big cities.

On that note…

Avoid renting a car

Unless you are doing a trip that focuses heavily on natural sights or smaller remote villages, odds are you won’t need a car.

Public transport (as I mentioned above) is a solid option, and involves a fraction of the stress often unleashed by car rentals.

… But beware of hidden costs if you do rent a car

When it comes to car rentals in Europe, often the first price you see isn’t indicative of what you’ll have to pay in the end.

Some hidden/additional costs might include…

• Age or nationality based surcharges
• Additional driver fees
• Multiple country fees
• Extra miles
• Extra insurance
• One way fees
• Tolls/vignettes

So if you still want to rent a car, here is a post to help you figure out how much renting a car in Europe really costs .

Renting a car? You might need a vignette 

One of the pains of car rentals is the additional fees. In many European countries, you need to pay for a vignette (a sticker you put on your car) to use their motorways.

In Switzerland for instance, this costs 40 francs… and yes, you need to make sure you have the vignette BEFORE you drive into the country, as there are automatic scanners at the border that can pick up your details and send you a ticket later (which we learned the hard way).

Do a lot of research before committing to a Eurail pass 

Many first time visitors to Europe think of a rail pass as the cheapest option, but very often, booking your train tickets in advance will work out to be cheaper than a Eurail pass, especially if you aren’t taking that many trains and don’t need full flexibility (i.e. you are okay to book the trains advance).

Eurail passes can be great value, but not always. If you need help figuring out whether they’d make sense for you, read my full Eurail review for more details.

Look into scenic European train rides

I’ve already made my allegiance to European public transport pretty clear, but one of the main reasons is simply how beautiful it can be.

Sure, trains aren’t always the cheapest way to to travel Europe , but they’re often the most scenic and beautiful.

So if you’re into the idea of travel as an experience, then be sure to read my post on the best scenic train rides in Europe , and the best scenic train rides in Switzerland .

Familiarize yourself with Europe’s most famous budget airlines 

One of the cheapest ways to get around Europe is hopping around on budget airlines… where sometimes an international flight is cheaper than a 6 pack of nuggets.

Of course, the epic prices come with their own set of drawbacks, usually in terms of the flight experience, customer support, and additional add-ons (which always come at an extra fee).

You can learn more specifics about Europe’s top budget airlines through my reviews here:

• Honest RyanAir Review
• Honest easyJet Review
• Honest WizzAir Review

Consider bus/coach travel if you’re on a budget

In addition to planes and trains, Europe is very well connected by an extensive bus (AKA coach) network.

One of the main contenders in this space is Flixbus, but depending on the country you’re visiting, there’s often local companies offering affordable bus travel between cities as well.

Again, I’d recommend using Omio so you can quickly compare buses, trains, and flights at the same time, but just know that bus travel in Europe can be a really cheap, safe, and easy way to get around.

Although there are of course some downisdes as well. You can read my full Flixbus review for more details.

Book an airport transfer for minimal stress

I love navigating Europe with public transport but if you’re travelling with a lot of luggage or as a big group, one of the more cost effective ways might actually be to just book a private transfer or taxi.

Of course, depending on where you go, taxi scams can be a real possibility, so for the least stressful option, consider booking a Welcome Pickups transfer, which is a set price, includes an English speaking driver who monitors your flight arrival time, and offers free cancellations up until 24 hours before.

This saves you the hassle of trying to get a taxi/navigate the language barriers to do so.

… Plus they pick you up with a cute little sign that has your name on it!

Do research on how trains work in your destination

I have to say, one of the most overwhelming things for me in Europe was getting used to how trains work. I come from West Coast Canada, where passenger rail from city to city is very limited.

SO if you’re new to train travel, it might be helpful to do some research on how the train system works in your destinations, paying attention to particularities like…

• Where to find the right platform for your train
• Where to stand in order to find the right section of your train
• Whether you need to buy and validate tickets before you get on board

Train stations are chaotic and stressful places, so you’ll ideally want to know these main things before you get there, otherwise you may have a lil mental breakdown on-site.

Use train station lockers

If you’re looking for a stress-free way to explore a city for the day, or if you need a place to dump your bags before check-in or after check-out, a convenient solution can often be found at your destination’s train station.

At larger train stations in Europe, there will usually be paid lockers or a ‘left luggage’ office for you to leave your bags for a small fee. Be sure to take advantage of these so you can explore without hauling all your lively possessions with you.

Order taxis or rides through apps whenever possible

Of course, this isn’t possible everywhere, but taxi scams are so widespread in certain European countries that you should definitely use an app when you’re able to.

The most popular ones in Europe include Uber, or FreeNow which is like Uber except you’re ordering an official licensed taxi.

Ordering through an app helps ensure you get a fair rate, and is also (in most cases) more convenient than waiting at a taxi stand or trying to wave one down in the street.

Always look for deals with public transport

If you’re relying on public transportation to get around during your trip (which I highly recommend), then doing a bit of research on ticket types and discounts can really save you a lot of money.

Most major European cities offer some kind of discount for day tickets, group tickets, or multiple trip bundles, so be sure to look into those rather than buying single tickets every time.

Always validate and hold onto your ticket

When it comes to navigating public transportation in Europe, most times it’s not enough to simply buy a ticket – you must usually a) validate it properly and b) keep it on you in case of inspection.

Who’s checking you ask? Well, most major European cities have random ticket controllers who periodically go around to make sure you’ve paid for and validated your fare correctly.

Sometimes (like in Paris) they’ll even ask to see your ticket after you’ve left the train platform, so be sure to hold onto your ticket until you’ve left the station.

Avoid public transport during rush hour… and during big events like sports games

When you’re a care-free tourist, it can be easy to forget the woes of mundane daily life like trying to get home during rush hour. Well, don’t forget: no matter where you go, they have a rush hour too, so be sure to avoid it whenever possible.

Ideally, you should aim to avoid public transport during times that locals are commuting to/from work. Pay special attention as well to big events like huge concerts or sport games, which can also make public transport a nightmare.

Easily rent bikes or scooters

Most major European cities now have e-bikes and e-scooters that you can easily rent on-the-go through an app. This can be a fun way to quickly and cheaply get around the city.

Options will depend on your destination, but keep an eye out upon arrival! If they are available, odds are you will see them everywhere.

Europe Tips for Attractions

Odds are, if you’re visiting Europe, your plans involve a lot of sightseeing. So, here are some of my best Europe travel tips related to attractions and itinerary planning.

Prepare yourself for scaffolding and restorations

Europe is an amazing destination thanks to its history.

… But the flip side of that is that it is old and so are many of its most famous monuments.

So, mentally prepare yourself for the possibility that the amazing church or landmark you’ve seen a million times on social media is covered in scaffolding, or doesn’t look as you hoped due to restorations.

For example, the first time I went to Rome, I was devastated to see the Trevi Fountain completely covered with scaffolding, and drained of water.

And most travelers have similar stories. There’s no way around it, but just keep in mind that it’s possible!

Look into age-based discounts

Oftentimes, whether you’re looking at train tickets or attraction tickets, there will be enticing discounts available based on your age, so be sure to look into those for additional savings, especially if you’re considered a child, youth (often this goes up to age 27!) or senior.

Get an ISIC Card if you’re a student

Here’s a very important Europe travel tip for students: if you are a student, the good news is you’re eligible for a wealth of additional discounts and offers.

The bad news is, often European institutions won’t recognize or accept student IDs from abroad, since they’re all so different.

An easy way to get around this though is by getting an  ISIC Card , which is an internationally recognized student ID that costs about twenty dollars, but will save you at least that much in discounts. 

I’d recommend getting one if you plan to travel around Europe for a longer time.

On a budget? Prioritize free museums and sights

This is one of my top Europe backpacking tips – do not sleep on the many free things to see and do in Europe.

Everywhere you go in Europe, there will be free things to do and see, ranging from free museums to beautiful architecture and street art.

So, be sure to research beforehand and see what free things there are to do at your destination.

NOTE:  A lot of museums across Europe offer free admission on particular days of the month. Take advantage of these offers!

Book tickets for attractions in advance whenever possible

This is usually cheaper, and can save you a lot of time on the day of your visit because at major attractions, there’s usually a separate line for people who already have tickets.

Skip the line tickets are usually worth it

If you’re visiting a busy destination, then I’d highly recommend looking into Skip the Line tickets for major attractions, which will allow you to get in quicker.

Remember, during your trip, time is money, so paying a bit extra to skip the line is definitely a good use of funds.

Visit attractions shortly before closing time

While most guides advise that you visit the main sights early, another sneaky hack that works quite well is visiting right before it closes.

I did this once with the Vatican Museums, entering about 1.5 hours before closing time and it I practically had the place all to myself!

In contrast, one time I did an early morning tour of the Vatican and it was already quite busy because other tour groups were starting at the same time. 

Book special tours that are before or after public opening hours 

Many busier destinations will offer this now, and it’s a magical way to experience the top sights with a fraction of the crowds.

I once did a sunrise tour around Venice and it was incredible to see all the main sights and feel like I had them mainly to myself.

Seek out fun and unique tours in general

Gone are the days that destinations offer just your old standard tours that cover everything generally.

These days, in most major European destinations, there are special tours you can book based on interest, with tours focusing on everything from history and food to street art and photography.

I usually like to have a quick search on GetYourGuide to see what’s available.

For touristy cities, research on local blogs 

In big cities like Paris or London, sure there’s a lot of tourists, but there are even more locals, who live there and call it home.

This means there’s a whole other side to the city that many tourists miss out on, from cool pop-ups and restaurants to special cultural events. I always try to look up fun events/updates on local blogs before every trip, and have gotten some really fun travel memories out of it.

You might find my guide on  How to Find Cool Stuff to Do Near You  helpful.

Seek alternate viewpoints to main landmarks

If you ever find yourself in a place wanting to get THE photo of a major landmark (e.g. the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the Coliseum in Rome, etc.) then a great way to get an amazing photo away from the crowds is by seeking out alternative angles and perspectives.

Remember, landmarks are big, so odds are you can find some cool places to get your photos without having to cram with everyone else. Simply walk a few blocks away and try to find unique views!

Always search for information on the official websites of attractions (even in the local language)

These days, hours/entry requirements can change quickly and third party guides (yes, even Google Maps!) may be inaccurate. 

So, if you’re trying to find information on how to book tickets or what opening times are, make sure you always go straight to the source rather than other sites or blogs (even mine!)

For example, on my most recent visit to Rome, the Pantheon had changed its policy to be open only for reserved time slots on weekends, which would have been really unlucky because I saw no information about this anywhere else.

Don’t spread yourself too thin

An ideal itinerary should have a mix of sights, experiences & relaxing. Don’t burn out by forcing yourself to see everything. I personally always ensure that there’s a relaxing or chill activity on each day, whether that be a picnic or just a relaxed coffee/cake afternoon.

If you’re not interested, don’t force yourself just because it’s a must do

I think too often, first-time visitors in Europe get caught in this trap of needing to see all THE most famous things, but remember: at the end of the day, this is your vacation, so don’t force yourself to see something just because a random person on the Internet told you to.

I personally love museums but they’re not for everyone, so just remember it’s your vacation and there’s no need to do something just because it’s famous.

… but psst – if you ARE into museums, don’t wait until your trip to go! There are tons of really cool virtual museums you can check out when you’re bored. Pro tip from one hopeless nerd to another.

Safety Tips for Europe (And How to Not Get Scammed!)

Is Europe dangerous to travel? This is one of the most common questions that first-time visitors ask. Honestly, so long as you keep the following Europe safety tips in mind, you will be fine.

Be wary of petty theft and scams when you visit Europe

Certainly in more touristy cities like Paris and Barcelona, opportunistic crime is abundant.

You can learn the most common pickpocket techniques and how to avoid them in my post about how to avoid pickpockets in Europe , but overall, the key is to always be vigilant and keep an eye on your belongings.

Pickpockets thrive on distraction, and tend to operate in high-traffic areas that have a lot of people/tourists (e.g. train stations), so be especially careful to not let anyone get too close.

Look into theft-proof bags and accessories

There are a lot of amazing theft-proof travel accessories out there these days. The bad news is they’re not always the cheapest.

If you’re willing to splurge a bit on something high-quality and designed to thwart pickpockets, here are some options:

• PacSafe’s  products are all made to be theft-proof, including their signature backpack  here  and day bag  here
• Secret passport scarves  like these  are a great way to stash THE most important things in a subtle and discreet way 

Research the pickpocket hot zones for your destination

Most major cities have certain areas that are particularly well-known as pickpocket destinations.

In Rome for example, there’s Termini Train Station where I got pickpocketed, and Bus 64 AKA the Pickpocket Express.

Knowing where pickpockets tend to operate can help provide some ease of mind, and help you figure out when to be on guard.

Keep valuables out of sight

Leaving your phone on a terrace table, or your purse hanging on your chair are both easy ways to get your valuables stolen!

Sure, it’s easy to let your guard down when you’re trying to relax, but remember that keeping your valuables out like that can be an easy way for them to get snatched.

Whenever I’m dining anywhere, I always keep my bag between my feet so they’re hard to access, and make sure to not leave my phone out on the table (on my lap, under a big napkin is often a safer bet!)

Don’t take “free stuff”

A very common scam in touristy European places is people will offer you something for free “as a gift”, but then demand you (or one of your travel buddies) pay for it.

Some examples include…

• Friendship bracelets

Generally, they will set up shop in busy, touristy areas, so remember to be especially cautious in these areas.

Don’t sign any petitions

Another common scam is the petition scam, usually run by groups of young women.

They’ll come ask you to sign a petition (often first breaking the ice by asking if you speak English) and then either demand a donation from you, or distract you as someone else picks your pockets.

… So if someone asks you to sign a petition, just ignore and walk away. Better safe than sorry!

Rudeness is the way to get rid of scammers

On that note, if you find yourself in a situation where you are being followed or confronted by one of the aforementioned scammers, the best thing to do is ignore them and walk away.

They can be very persistent, but will give up eventually when you ignore them.

Limit the amount of cash you bring out with you

I always say to plan for ‘worst case scenario’, so another one of my top Europe safety tips is to not bring around more cash than you’d stand to lose.

Once upon a time, my friend was carrying around hundreds of euros in her bag (at the start of her trip) and was pickpocketed in Nice on her very first day! Pickpockets work quickly and unexpectedly, so don’t bring out more than you’d be okay losing.

Store your cards separately

On a similar note, make sure to not carry all your cards in one wallet, so that (in case you are pickpocketed), you have a back-up.

I would recommend keeping one card in your suitcase, or in a separate bag.

Don’t make yourself appear to be a good target for robbery

Sometimes when I’m travelling I’ll see people doing photoshoots posing with their designer shopping bags, completely oblivious to the fact that they’re making themselves targets.

Worse, sometimes they just leave the bags on a bench or on the stairs while they’re occupied on their phone.

If I were to write a “how to get robbed in Europe” article, these are the types of behaviours that would make the list, so make sure you’re not making yourself a clear target, and don’t wear unnecessarily flashy outfits or accessories which might catch a thief’s eye.

Keep your phone out of reach

Phone snatchings are becoming a really common crime, especially in big cities like London, so avoid having your phone haphazardly out, or at least be sure to pay more attention when you do, especially…

• If you’re standing close to doors on public transport
• If you’re walking along a bike lane or road

Be careful of bike lanes

Speaking of bike lanes, here’s another important (physical) Europe safety tip: be mindful of them.

If you’re like me and come from somewhere that they’re not overly common, it’s way too easy to accidentally walk onto them and potentially get yourself run over (or more likely, make yourself an annoyance to a cyclist just trying to get home).

Beware of strangers asking you to go for drinks randomly

This is a scam that’s more prevalent in famous party cities, but if a random person (usually an unreasonably attractive woman) comes up to you off the street and asks you to grab a drink, odds are rather good that they’re not just a friendly local looking to grab drinks with a stranger.

This is a common scam where people (again, usually beautiful women, but not always) will bring targeted tourists into bars they’re working with to get a few drinks, only for these tourists to get charged extortionate rates for these drinks, because you never question how much stuff costs when you’re trying to flirt.

Extreme stories even say that bar staff will block the door until the tourists pay up.

Moral of the story: if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.

And beware of children

A general rule of thumb is this: if a kid is confidently coming up to you and/or getting close unannounced, keep your valuables close and watch your pockets. This is often a distraction tactic used by pickpockets, and sadly some kids are also trained to steal from a young age too.

I almost lost my wallet in Bratislava this way, when a woman asked me to take her photo and her kid started running around me as a distraction.

I realized pretty quickly what was happening and caught my pickpocket literally with her hand in my purse. Luckily, I was able to swat her hand away just in time.

Buy some small locks to put around your zippers

Another great travel hack I’ve picked up over the years is simply buying a set of small cable locks  like these  and keeping one in each bag.

That way, you can quickly lock your zippers together in crowded situations and prevent anyone from randomly opening your bag.

Simple, but effective.

Look up common taxi rates and scams before arriving

While I’m a firm believer that public transport is the way to go, sometimes you might need to take a taxi, whether it’s because you’re arriving late, running late, or just want to splurge a little.

While this varies depending on the country, taxis are often prime scam zones! I’ve personally been scammed by taxis in  Prague  and also in  Sofia.

Particularly if you are leaving from busy areas like airports or train stations, some opportunistic drivers will take advantage. This is how I got charged 4x the usual fare in Sofia, mainly because I didn’t know better.

So, if you plan on taking a taxi, make sure you search up how much that route should generally cost, and also familiarize yourself with common scams.

Know the emergency numbers

In North America, 911 is the go-to when you have any kind of emergency, but the numbers are different in Europe.

Within the EU (and a handful of other countries), the general emergency number is 112, and most countries will have other numbers for more specific emergency services as well.

So, be sure to take note of what these are before your trip, although I’ve heard anecdotally that 911 should reroute to emergency services as well.

Avoid sketchy EuroNet ATMs

If you’re going to an ATM, try your best to find one that’s connected to an actual bank.

There are a lot of ATMs (especially around tourist areas) that charge huge fees, or make currency conversion more confusing than it needs to be so you can get charged more.

As a general rule, don’t use any of those Euronet ATMs – they’re the worst!

Have a plan in case of a worst case scenario

This isn’t just a good Europe travel tip, but a good tip for travelling anywhere – make a plan for the worst case scenario.

Imagine your bags get stolen with your passports and all your cash/cards – what would be your backup plan? What would you do if you lost your phone?

Having a plan in place can minimize stress in the event that anything does happen, and having that peace of mind is very important for any vacation!

Get a good VPN

If you plan to be travelling longer-term, getting a reliable VPN is a must.

In short, VPNs (or Virtual Private Networks) mask your IP address and encrypt your data so that you can protect your identity online, browse anonymously, and even change the geographical location you’re browsing from.

This can be helpful in a lot of backpacking situations. In the past, I’ve used a VPN to…

• Access streaming for my favourite TV shows that weren’t available in the country I was travelling in
• Visit sites that were blocked in the country I was travelling in
• Access important sites (e.g. banking portals) that flagged my visit as suspicious because I was in a new country
• Securely browse the Internet with public WiFi knowing my data/identity was protected

As a real cheapskate (especially in my earlier travel days), I’ve tried every free VPN under the sun, and always found them to be unreliable or buggy.

After doing lots of research, I decided to splurge on  Private Internet Access , which I’ve been using for the past few years, and I’ve been loving it. It’s super easy to use, very reliable, and actually (when you break it down) not expensive it all.

Subscribe via  this link  and you can get it for under 3 bucks a month.

Food & Drink Tips for Europe

When in Europe, eating and drinking well is a must! Here are some of my best tips for making the most of Europe’s varied food culture.

Visit grocery stores to save big

Not only is visiting supermarkets abroad just a fun cultural activity in general, you can save a great deal of money by buying snacks/drinks there vs. from vendors as you’re out and about.

If you have cooking facilities at your accommodation, making some of your own meals can also be a huge money-saver, even if you’re just swapping out a sit-down lunch for a picnic one.

Beware that you might need to weigh your own produce

Of course, visiting supermarkets abroad can come with its own healthy dose of culture shocks, one of the main ones being that most countries have their own different method of handling produce.

Should you weigh it? Print a sticker? Just bring it as-is?

The answer will depend, so observe what others are doing before you get caught awkwardly at the cashier with a woman shouting at you in Bulgarian because you didn’t weigh your tomatoes (true story).

Have a quick search of regional specialties before you go

European cuisine is SO diverse, and even within one country, you’ll have all kinds of different regional dishes to try, so I’d recommend doing some research beforehand about the top must-tries, so you can keep an eye out for them.

For example, you might think you know what Italian food is but when you go to actual Italy, you’ll realize that every region has their own special dishes, so be sure to look into what those are before just getting pizza everywhere.

Dine far away from tourist attractions

A general rule of thumb is that any restaurants right next to major tourist attractions are probably gonna have a poor price to quality ratio, since they cater more to tourists who are flush with cash and unlikely to return.

My tip? Just walk a few blocks over before starting your food hunt, or d some research beforehand to find well-rated restaurants near you.

Learn how to spot a tourist trap restaurant

Tourist trappy restaurants are a dime a dozen in Europe’s more popular destinations, so make sure you work on your tourist trap radar.

A few red flags include…

• Big pictures
• The menu being translated into a million languages
• The words “TOURIST MENU” over it
• A really persistent person out front beckoning you to come inside

Double check that places have prices on display before ordering

This may be the oldest scam in Europe’s “let’s extort tourists” playbook, but any restaurant with fair pricing will be transparent with their pricing.

If you come across a restaurant that doesn’t list prices upfront, then run for the hills.

Never assume “it can’t be that bad” because odds are they’ve omitted their prices for a reason and plan to charge you an extortionate amount, like  this place  which went viral for a 500 euro lunch bill.

A quick check of reviews is a must

While I don’t believe reviews are accurate 100% of the time, I do think they’re very helpful for establishing patterns, especially when there’s a bunch of reviews all saying the same thing.

A quick search of the restaurant (even on Google Maps Reviews) can help prevent you from getting scammed or being subject to mediocre food/service.

Lunch specials are usually cheaper

If you’re gonna splurge and treat yourself, lunch might be the time to do it. Many places will offer special deals for lunch, so keep an eye out for those!

Usually the bill won’t come until you ask for it

Generally speaking, the ultra-friendly and proactive customer service you get in North America doesn’t really exist in European countries.

Very rarely will you have servers come up to constantly check on you and ask how you’re doing, so if you’re wondering why nobody has brought the bill around, just get their attention because they don’t tend to drop it off until you ask (doing so without asking is actually considered a bit rude in itself).

Don’t shy away from food tours

If you’re running on limited stomach space but want to try as many local specialties as possible, then food tours are a really fun and delicious option.

Most big destinations in Europe have them these days, and they’re a great way to sample a lot of local foods while also getting a local guide’s perspective and expertise.

Context is key and learning about food (while eating it!) is the best.

Take a cooking class 

Another foodie activity that’s now offered in most European destinations these days is cooking classes.

There’s no better souvenir than learning how to prep your favourite foods once you get home, so definitely consider adding one to your itinerary.

Get used to sparkling water

Sparkling water is a lot more common in certain European countries than in North America, to the point where sometimes it’s the default if you ask for water.

If you’re not a fan of spicy H20, then make sure to specify Still when you order water.

Don’t pay extra for hotel breakfast

Don’t get me wrong, I love a good hotel breakfast when it’s included in the room rate, but if you’re given a choice, you can save a lot of money by going out to get breakfast at a bakery, which is also more fun in my opinion.

When weather permits, picnics are a much better option

I love picnics. They’re such a romantic and affordable way to enjoy a meal, especially when you have a great backdrop.

Make sure you picnic at least once during your trip – I promise you’ll love it! And your wallet will too.

Generally speaking, Europeans eat later than North Americans

After living in Germany for a few years, making dinner plans with friends at home almost put me in a coma. Dinner at 5:30 or 6pm? Wayyyy earlier than most European countries, especially Spain where dinner time is often after 9pm.

Of course, you can take advantage of this cultural difference by getting a table at popular restaurants simply through booking as soon as they open.

Be openminded with trying new foods

I hated beer until I had it in Belgium. I hated cheese until I tried smoked cheese in the Netherlands.

I don’t know how to explain it, but certain food and drink items just taste different, and frankly, better in Europe than they do in North America.

So before you write something off as a food you don’t like, give it a try. You might be pleasantly surprised, especially if it’s the regional specialty.

Get takeout for super cheap with Too Good to Go

One of my favourite (little-known) Europe travel apps is called  Too Good to Go.

They service many major European cities, and basically, it’s a free app that restaurants use to sell their leftover food at the end of the day (sometimes at lunch too).

This helps minimize food waste, and means you can pick up an entire take out meal for less than 5 euros.

Sure, you don’t get to choose what you get, but it’s an excellent way to eat cheap and help reduce waste at the same time.

Culture & Etiquette Tips for Europe

Tourists can often have a reputation for being rude… but not you! Not on my watch. Here are some culture and etiquette tips to keep in mind for your trip to Europe.

Culturally, Europe is a million different entities

One of my biggest pet peeves when it comes to Europe travel advice is when books or sites tell you “In Europe, tipping is like…”, “In Europe, locals are…”

… Which I know is kind of ironic in an article simply called “Europe Travel Tips” but shhh just go with it.

Long story short: Europe is composed of dozens of countries, each with their unique cultural nuances and norms, so be sure to research culture tips specifically for where you’re going, because things like tipping, queuing, meal times, etc. can vary considerably across the continent.

Learn at least hello and thank you 

While visitors can often survive just fine without learning the local language, i’s generally good manners to know basics such as hello and thank you for every country you visit.

… So be sure to practice that a bit before you go!

Do not tip by North American standards

As I previously mentioned, tipping in Europe does vary from country to country, but never would a 20% tip be considered the bare minimum like in North America sometimes.

So, be sure to research tipping culture in your destination before you go. In many countries, tipping involves simply rounding up.

Try to not speak too loud

In Europe, North Americans generally have a reputation for being… loud. Sometimes obnoxiously so.

So if you’re out in public, try to lower the volume of your voice to closer match what’s around you (easier said than done, I know, but something to be mindful of).

When in doubt, mimic the locals 

Cultural norms can vary widely from place to place, so your best bet is to just observe the status quo and try to imitate that.

If nobody is chatting on the train, it’s probably a good sign that you shouldn’t either. If everybody is lining up in an orderly queue, maybe you should join that queue instead of barging in the front.

Remember, tourists can have a reputation for being disrespectful and annoying, so try your best to shatter that stereotype wherever you go.

Look into festivals and folk events to attend 

One of the most amazing things about Europe as a continent is that it is so deeply rooted in heritage and tradition, with some cultural traditions dating back thousands of years.

For a truly unforgettable experience, I’d recommend looking up some fun festivals or events to enjoy. 

Here are some of my favourites I’ve been to:

• September: Bad Dürkheim Wurstmarkt (the world’s largest wine festival)
• September/October: Oktoberfest in Munich (the world’s largest beer festival)
• February: Crazy Days at Cologne Carnival
• March – April: Starkbierfest in Munich (unique strong beer festival)
• March – May: Keukenhof (the world’s largest flower garden)

Packing Tips for Europe

Not sure what to wear and what to pack for Europe? Here are my top Europe packing tips.

Steal my pre-made packing lists

If you’re overwhelmed with what to pack, I’ve already made some packing lists that you can use as a starting point!

Download them, print them, mail them to all your friends and exes! I hope you get tons of use out of them:

• My Europe winter packing list
• My Europe summer packing list
• My versatile minimalist packing list
• My toiletries packing list

Don’t bring any suitcases you can’t carry

I’ve always been an advocate for packing light, but a good rule of thumb is to not bring any suitcases you aren’t physically capable of carrying yourself.

There’s a million and one scenarios where you might have to end up carrying your suitcase in Europe, like…

• Your hotel or accommodation unexpectedly has no elevator
• The elevator you were counting on at the train station is out of order
• You need to carry your bag up some ancient staircase to get to your accommodation
• You need to lift your suitcase on/off the train you’re taking

So yes, whatever bag or suitcase you bring, make sure you’re able to carry it yourself.

Good walking shoes are a must

I cannot explain to you how much walking you’ll end up doing, so comfortable shoes are much more important than cute stylish ones.

That said, if you’re able to find comfortable walking shoes that are a bit dressier, opt for those over beat up runners.

Generally speaking, casual wear in Europe is more dressed up than what we’re used to in North America, so packing a nice pair of white sneakers or comfy leather boots would definitely be a more versatile choice over hole-filled running shoes.

Buy AirTags to track your suitcases

With airlines losing baggage all the time these days, I’ve finally caved and bought an AirTag to track my checked bag.

And honestly? I regret nothing! I love the ease of mind it provides, and should a thief ever nab my bag one day, I feel very smug knowing I’ll be able to track them down.

Pack an emergency outfit in your carry-on

On a similar note, one Europe packing tip I live by is always having an emergency set of clothes in your carry-on bag.

Checked bags get lost all the time, so having extra clothes with you is key for ease of mind. I usually bring all the top essentials with me in my carry-on. Better safe than sorry!

Pack clothes with hidden inner pockets rather than a money belt

While many travel experts tout the the benefits of money belts, I’ve honestly never been able to get on board with them. They’re awkward, sweaty, and reaching under your clothes to get change for an ice cream is just… not my idea of fun.

Instead of a money belt, I always have either:

• A backpack with a zippered pocket in the back, which makes it inaccessible to anyone else when worn
• A crossbody purse with a pocket on the backside, again making it inaccessible to anyone so long as I hold it close to me 
• A jacket with inner pockets so it’s impossible to reach in without getting super super close

These anti-theft methods are a LOT more comfortable to me than a money belt… so remember: a money belt isn’t the only way!

Bring a universal adapter

Power sockets in most European countries have two round holes and if you’re visiting from overseas, odds are you’ll need an adapter for your plugs to fit.

I’d strongly recommend buying a universal adapter  like this one  if you don’t have one already. Not only is it good for the standard round hole outlets, but it can also work for the three prong plugs in the UK, Malta, and Cyprus.

It’s cheap, can be re-used for every trip, and covers you in all situations. Definitely some of the best money I’ve ever spent!

Use packing cubes to organize and compress your clothes

I am such a packing cubes fangirl.

These beauties are a magical way to keep all your goods organized, while saving space in your bag as well. Gone are the days that you rummage through your entire pack for a particular t-shirt!

Not all packing cubes have to be expensive either. There’s plenty of affordable options on Amazon, like this blue set from  Amazon Basics , but you definitely get what you pay for.

PS: I’m a total packing cube nerd and once bought a bunch of different brands to compare. See my full  packing cube showdown  for more.

Pack a re-usable bag for purchases

Single use bags are slowly getting phased out in Europe, so I find it’s always a good idea to bring an extra bag or two whenever I travel, whether to stash my souvenir haul for the day or to carry around snacks.

So, when in doubt, pack a tote or two! They can be such lifesavers.

DIY your own travel sized toiletries

This is a very basic  packing tip  I always recommend, but rather than buy the bottles of toiletries which give you like, three good squeezes of shampoo, I find it’s easier (and more eco-friendly) these days to buy small reusable bottles that you can fill with your own toiletries of choice.

This allows you to bring your favourite products with you, and saves needless one-use toiletries from ending up in the landfill.

Need help picking the right one?  Read my guide to  reusable toiletry bottles  for more info.

Final Europe Travel Tips to Know Before You Go

Alright, before I let you get back to… your real life, friends, and family, here are some final random Europe travel tips to keep in mind.

Having cash is important

With the exception of Northern Europe and some parts of the UK, cash is still important to carry around, whether for small purchases or for essentials like using the washroom. Keeping coins is also a good idea.

So, don’t forget that cash is still king in many parts of Europe!

Claim VAT refunds at the airport

Taxes are generally built into the price in Europe, so many travellers don’t realize they are paying up to to 20% in VAT (Value Added Tax) for everything they purchase.

The good news is, when it comes to goods that you are buying and taking home (e.g. clothes, gifts, etc.), non-residents of Europe are eligible for a refund on this VAT that you pay.

VAT refund rules vary from country to country, but usually there’s a minimum spend amount in one single location (around 175 EUR in most cases).

So, keep this in mind and you can get a good chunk of change back. To get the step by step process, Google your destination + VAT refund, as the process does differ country to country.

Floors start at zero so don’t get confused 

If you’ve seen Emily in Paris you’ll already know this one.

The floor system in European buildings tends to differ from North America.

Whereas in North America, the ground floor is often the 1st floor, the ground floor is considered its own separate entity in most countries (i.e. Floor 0) and then the next one above that would be the 1st floor.

Prepare for beds to be different

Bed sizes in Europe tend to be smaller, and doubles can often just be two single beds pushed together (so romantic, I know).

Depending on where you go, the pillows and comforters can be different as well, like in Germany where they’ve randomly decided that the optimal shape for a pillow is square. *shudder*

Beware of words you know that may mean a different thing in other languages

For example, a menu for North Americans is a list of dishes you can order, but a menu in France means a set meal or combo.

Similarly, entrées in North America are the main course, when in France, it means appetizer.

Use Google Maps to save spots you want to see

Google Maps is an amazing resource not just for navigating a new city, but also for saving spots you might want to visit in the future.

One of my favourite  travel hacks  is starring every location I deem interesting on Google Maps. You can do this by pressing the Save button when you search up that spot.

This allows you to have a visual map of all the cool cafes, street art murals, attractions, restaurants, etc. that you’ve saved during your research, which means you can easily organize your itinerary/sightseeing.

I love doing this because I’ll often end up in new areas during my explorations, and I can just look at my map to see if anything interesting I read about happens to be nearby. Saves a lot of planning!

Need customer support? Hop on Twitter

Don’t ask me why this is, but if you need to get ahold of customer support during your trip (e.g. an airline, a train company, etc.), usually the quickest response time will be through Twitter.

The best way to tell if you’ll get a reply on Twitter is by checking the official accounts’ replies – if there are recent replies to Tweets, odds are good that there’s a dedicated staff member monitoring the account.

This of course works in non-travel settings as well!

Get crowdless photos by using this cool photo hack

For iPhone users, there’s a super easy way to get cool photos in crowded places without getting a bunch of people in the shot.

Simply follow these steps:

• Turn on Live photo
• Pose for your photo, making sure to stand still
• Get your photographer to snap a few photos of you standing still
• Edit the photo by going in the upper left corner, click on the LIVE button with the downwards arrow, and turn on Long Exposure
• The crowds walking around you should now be blurry, with you still in focus

Binge on movies set in your destination before your visit

You know, I could binge travel quotes all day but nothing will put me in more of a wanderlusty mood that a good movie set somewhere beautiful.

So, if you binge travel movies set in your destination, I promise your trip will be 1000000x times more enjoyable when you recognize the sights that you’re seeing. Trust me.

Consider learning the Cyrillic alphabet

If you are travelling somewhere that uses the Cyrillic alphabet, it can be very beneficial to learn how to read it.

This is because sometimes destination names at train/bus stations are written only in the local alphabet, which can lead to a lot of confusion if you’re unfamiliar with it.

European countries that use the Cyrillic alphabet include…

• North Macedonia

Remember: Europe is more about the experience than it is about seeing a million sights

Last but not least, I have to say… Europe is beautiful, yes. It’s packed to the brim with gorgeous museums, architecture, natural beauty, etc. BUT at the end of the day, what you need to focus more is on the experience of just being present and enjoying every moment.

Don’t stress yourself out too much with a heavy itinerary and trying to cram as much as possible in.

Enjoy it! Because your trip will go by far quicker than you think.

I hope this list of Europe travel tips was helpful!

If you’ve made it this far, wow. I applaud the stamina. And patience! This ha admittedly been a VERY long list of tips for Europe, but if you have any more questions, let me know in the comments… and be sure to read my list of unconventional travel hacks if you’re eager for more.

My Go-To Travel Favourites:

🧳 Eagle Creek: My favourite packing cubes

💳 Wise: For FREE travel friendly credit cards

🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

📷 Sony A7IV: My (amazing) camera

✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

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Israel-Hamas War Brings Tensions to Europe: What Travelers Need to Know

The intensifying war in the Middle East has led to demonstrations in London, Paris, Rome and beyond. Here’s what to expect amid the disruptions.

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By Ceylan Yeginsu

As the war between Hamas and Israel intensifies in the Middle East, tensions are spilling over into Europe, where demonstrations and terrorist attacks are causing disruptions for locals and visitors alike.

Last week, monuments and government buildings across Europe were lit up in blue and white — a show of solidarity with Israel after the assault by Hamas on Oct. 7 that killed at least 1,400 Israeli civilians. Within days, tens of thousands of pro-Palestinian protesters were marching across European cities to protest the Israeli bombardment of Gaza that followed. A deadly explosion at a hospital in Gaza on Tuesday, which left Palestinians and Israelis trading blame , has threatened further unrest.

Local authorities have ramped up security as clashes erupted over the weekend in London, Paris, Madrid and Rome. In France, security threats have forced the evacuation of sites like the Louvre Museum, along with several airports.

Security experts say that while it is still broadly safe to travel to Europe, it is important to be aware of demonstrations and show vigilance toward any perceived threat.

Here’s what to know about the disruptions.

Where are people protesting?

Since Oct. 13, when a former Hamas leader declared “a day of rage,” tens of thousands of people across Europe have gathered to call for an end to Israeli military action in Gaza, prompting some countries like France and Germany to ban pro-Palestinian demonstrations. One of the biggest protests was held in London, where clashes with police led to the arrest of 15 people. Another pro-Palestinian demonstration is planned for noon on Saturday at London’s Marble Arch.

In Paris, a pro-Palestinian protest is planned for 6 p.m. on Thursday at the Place de la République in defiance of the ban, which was upheld by a French court on Wednesday, with instructions for local authorities to evaluate individual cases for security risks. Further rallies in support of Palestinians are likely across Europe through late October, according to Crisis24, a security risk and crisis management consultancy group.

Following the hospital blast in Gaza late Tuesday, protesters in Istanbul stormed the Israeli Consulate, throwing fireworks toward the building and burning Israeli flags. In the city of Malatya, in east-central Turkey, a group of demonstrators tried to enter an American military base. And on Wednesday, protesters gathered outside the U.S. Consulate in Istanbul, demanding its closure.

The U.S. Embassy in Ankara said large demonstrations related to events in Israel and Gaza are expected throughout Turkey for the next several weeks. “Any gathering, even those intended to be peaceful, could escalate and turn violent,” the embassy said in a security alert published on Wednesday. “Protest activity may result in enhanced police presence, road closures, and traffic disruptions.”

On Tuesday, Israel’s National Security Council issued a warning against travel to Turkey and Morocco, citing fears that Israeli travelers might be targeted. It urged all Israeli citizens in Turkey to leave as soon as possible.

“We always recommend that our clients avoid public demonstrations and protests, as these can get out of control quickly,” said Randy Haight, director of global response and protective operations at FocusPoint International , a U.S.-based travel risk management firm.

Is there a threat of terrorism?

Two terrorist attacks were carried out in France and Belgium this week, causing both countries to raise their terrorist threat alert to the maximum level.

In northern France, one teacher was killed and several people were injured after a knife-wielding man attacked a school in what French officials described as an “Islamist terror attack.” Days later, during a Belgium-Sweden Euro 2024 qualifier soccer match in Brussels, a man gunned down two Swedish nationals in what authorities called “an act of terrorism.” The game was suspended and fans were held in the stadium. The attacker was later shot by police.

“While the authorities have not identified any link between the Israel-Hamas conflict and attacks in Europe, the highly emotive and divisive nature of the conflict could engender additional attacks in coming weeks,” said James Wood, a security director at International SOS , a health and security risk management firm.

“Reports also indicate hate crimes have increased globally since the conflict began,” he added.

Tourist sites and transport hubs in France have received multiple bomb threats this week, causing tourists to evacuate the Louvre Museum and the Palace of Versailles. On Wednesday, eight French airports were evacuated after receiving threats. The sites have since reopened.

Are there any travel advisories in place?

Before traveling to Europe, visitors should check the State Department’s website for the latest guidance on the specific country they are visiting. Currently, for most European countries, including Britain, France, Belgium, Germany and Spain, the department has issued a Level 2 advisory, urging U.S. citizens to “exercise increased caution” because of terrorism threats and civil unrest.

As of Oct. 18, the terrorist threat alert in France remains at its highest level. The threat level in Belgium has since been lowered to Level 3.

What steps can I take to mitigate some of the risks while traveling?

It is difficult to predict the trajectory of the war and any associated incidents that might occur in Europe, said Mr. Wood of International SOS. But individuals can take some practical steps to reduce exposure to potential events:

Anticipate heightened security in urban centers, particularly around tourist hot spots, key government areas and public transport hubs in the coming weeks.

Be alert to suspicious behavior or items, and report anything unusual to the authorities.

Be prepared for security alerts or hoaxes that may trigger short-notice evacuation of public locations, which can cause disruption.

Follow all directives issued by the authorities and do not act on the basis of unverified information.

Check with local authorities for the details of planned demonstrations. Anticipate disruptions, and plan your trip accordingly.

Expect a heightened police presence, and leave an area at the first sign of unrest.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2023 .

Ceylan Yeginsu is a travel reporter. She was previously a correspondent for the International desk in Britain and Turkey, covering politics; social justice; the migrant crisis; the Kurdish conflict, and the rise of Islamic State extremism in Syria and the region. More about Ceylan Yeginsu

Our Coverage of the Israel-Hamas War

News and Analysis

The Israeli military announced what it called a precise operation to kill members of Hamas in Gaza , a day after a strike there killed three sons  of one of the most senior leaders of the group.

Hamas said that it did not have 40 living hostages in Gaza  who met specific criteria for an exchange with Israel under a proposed cease-fire deal, raising fears that more hostages may be dead than previously believed.

There has been no apparent work done yet on increasing aid to Gaza  by opening an additional border crossing from Israel and accepting shipments at a nearby Israeli port, but Israel said that both changes remain in the works.

Psychedelics and Trauma: Thousands of festival-goers were using mind-altering substances when Hamas-led fighters attacked on Oct 7. Now, scientists are studying the effects of such drugs at a moment of trauma .

Turmoil at J Street: The war in Gaza has raised serious concerns within the Jewish political advocacy group about its ability to hold a middle position  without being pulled apart by forces on the right and the left.

Challenging Democratic Leaders: Protests over the Biden administration’s handling of the war in Gaza are disrupting the activities of Democratic officials, complicating their ability to campaign during a pivotal election year .

Germany’s Upended Arts Scene: Berlin, the home of boundary-pushing artists from around the world, has been turned upside down by debates about what can and can’t be said about Israel and the war in Gaza .

FinanceBuzz

15 Affordable (and Safe) Cities in Europe That Retirees Love

Posted: February 3, 2024 | Last updated: February 3, 2024

With retirement comes nearly endless potential for your next phase of life, especially if you consider retiring early .

You now have the financial freedom and unlimited spare time to do everything you’ve always wanted, including the time to explore and travel more . Visiting Europe is high on many people’s bucket lists, but it can be costly and potentially dangerous. 

That doesn’t mean you should scratch it from your itinerary, though. Instead, look into visiting the following 15 safe and affordable European cities.

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Ljubljana, Slovenia

Your bank account won’t get homesick traveling to Ljubljana, Slovenia, one of the safest and most affordable European destinations. Aside from being rich in history and culture, the city also prides itself on being green.

The only major safety concern comes from pickpockets, though this can be expected at any tourist destination. The average daily cost to visit, including accommodations and food, ranges from $45 to $54.

Avoid costly repairs: Unexpected appliance breakdowns can cost $1,000s of dollars to fix.

Lisbon, Portugal

Another great budget European destination is Lisbon, Portugal. The average daily cost is around $143, including transportation, food, and accommodations.

As for safety, it’s hard to beat the city’s ranking. Again, pickpockets and scams are the most significant risks at play, so just be alert and aware of your surroundings.

Zagreb, Croatia

Head to Zagreb, Croatia, if you love unique sightseeing opportunities, including historical cemeteries, vibrant arts and culinary scenes, museums, and more.

Zagreb is a very safe city if you take precautions against the local pickpockets. The average cost per day is just $86 a person.

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Tallinn, Estonia

If you want to spend your retirement enriching yourself in medieval history, look no further than Tallinn, Estonia. The city is steeped in history, from cathedrals to castles and more.

Including accommodations and food, you can expect to spend around $44 to $56 per day in the city. While the city is safe, you will need to remain vigilant against pickpockets and scams, especially transportation scams.

Istanbul, Turkey

Another breathtakingly gorgeous and historical city is Istanbul, Turkey. The average cost per day is low at just $47, and many free attractions and sightseeing opportunities exist.

Being a large, popular city, Istanbul can be less safe than other quieter destinations. Petty theft is the biggest risk, so as long as you’re aware of your surroundings, you should be fine. 

However, be aware of the city’s political climate before booking your flight, as this could pose a safety risk for travelers.

Porto, Portugal

Another Portuguese city perfect for retirees is Porto — average daily costs range from $43 to $58. You can visit 12th-century churches, gorgeous riverfronts, cafes, shops, and more.

Scams and pickpockets are cause for concern, but being aware and on guard can help prevent these petty crimes.

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Bavaria, Germany

Bavaria is not only one of the most gorgeous places to visit in Germany but also one of the safest. In fact, it has the lowest crime rate in the whole country. It’s also in Germany’s countryside, making it a lovely, lowkey spot for retirees.

It costs around $166 per day for food, transportation, and accommodation, but this is a reasonable number compared to other European destinations.

Andalusia, Spain

Spain is a gorgeous and relaxed country perfect for retirees, but many destinations are simply too expensive. Andalusia, and specifically the city of Málaga, is safe and affordable.

Aside from petty theft like pickpocketing, it’s incredibly safe for visiting retirees. As for the cost, expect an average of $138 per day.

Kotor, Montenegro

Another beautiful, affordable, and safe destination for retirees is yet again in the Balkans — this time in Kotor, Montenegro.

Montenegro is generally very safe, sans the occasional scam or pickpocket. Budget around $108 per day for transportation, food, and a place to stay, plus a little extra for shopping or sightseeing.

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Palermo, Sicily

Italy is another highly coveted destination for retirees, but many cities are unattainably expensive and can be dangerous in dense tourist destinations.

Palermo, Sicily, though, is a wonderful middle ground between the two. While scammers, pickpockets, and other petty criminals abound like any other travel site, it’s largely safe as long as you’re vigilant. 

As for cost, it’s roughly $101 per day for accommodation, food, and transportation.

The Peloponnese, Greece

Another Mediterranean destination retirees love is Greece. However, scammers run rampant in popular tourist sites, which are generally very pricey.

The Peloponnese, though, is both safe and affordable. Any city in the region is a great idea. The cost per day in Nafplio is around $122, for example. 

While some political unease exists in Athens and other Grecian destinations, the Peloponnese is a laid-back, rural site safe for visitors.

Klagenfurt, Austria

Another gorgeous medieval European city is Klagenfurt, Austria, which is both safe and affordable for retirees.

Klagenfurt is a safe city, but be aware that it’s close to the local airport, so petty theft may be more significant than other destinations. As for cost, a two-week trip for two is around $4,000, which comes out to around $143 per day per person.

Riga, Latvia

Riga, Latvia, is a culture-rich European destination with lots of free or cheap things to enjoy as a retiree, including live music, local restaurants, museums and historical sites, and paddleboard tours.

The most significant risk in Riga is petty theft, like pickpocketing and scams. Scams usually involve being convinced to visit certain bars and then being grossly overcharged, so keep your wits about you.

Brasov, Romania

If you’re a fan of literature or history, visit Brasov, Romania — the home of Bran Castle, where Count Dracula's legend gained footing.

Not only is the city itself affordable to visit, but there are tons of free and inexpensive sightseeing options, like walking tours or cable cars that take you into the mountains. 

Again, pickpockets and scams are common but the only major source of crime, so be aware and alert.

Tbilisi, Georgia

Grab one of the best travel credit cards and head to the city of Tbilisi in Georgia. This is a wonderfully affordable travel option for retirees, with accommodations as low as $25 per night.

Tbilisi is also the largest city in, as well as the capital of, Georgia, making it a wonderfully busy place to sightsee. 

Even though it’s a popular tourist spot, it’s one of the safest cities not just in the country but on the continent. Common issues like pickpockets and scams are reported in very low numbers.

Bottom line

There’s no better time to travel Europe than during retirement. With essentially unlimited free time, you can enjoy your destination at a slow pace tailored to your wants and needs.

You can also avoid wasting money on pricier destinations without compromising your safety. There are plenty of destinations that fit a reasonable or even tight budget and are safe and welcoming to all visitors.

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Solar eclipse 2024: Photos from the path of totality and elsewhere in the U.S.

Images show the Great American Eclipse, seen by tens of millions of people in parts of Mexico, 15 U.S. states and eastern Canada for the first time since 2017.

Millions gathered across North America on Monday to bask in the glory of the Great American Eclipse — the moment when the moon passes between the Earth and the sun. 

The path of totality measures more than 100 miles wide and will first be visible on Mexico’s Pacific coast before moving northeast through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois and upward toward New York, New Hampshire and Maine, then on to Canada.

Total solar eclipse 2024 highlights: Live coverage, videos and more

During the cosmic spectacle, the moon’s movements will temporarily block the sun’s light, creating minutes of darkness, and will make the sun's outer atmosphere, or the corona, visible as a glowing halo.

Here are moments of the celestial activities across the country:

Breaking News Reporter

Elise Wrabetz is a Senior Photo Editor for NBC News digital

Chelsea Stahl is the art director for NBC News Digital

Watch CBS News

Solar eclipse maps show 2024 totality path, peak times and how much of the eclipse people could see across the U.S.

By Aliza Chasan

Updated on: April 9, 2024 / 5:00 AM EDT / CBS News

A total solar eclipse  crossed North America Monday with parts of 15 U.S. states within the path of totality. Maps show  where and when astronomy fans could see the big event  as skies darkened in the middle of the day Monday, April 8.

The total eclipse first appeared along Mexico's Pacific Coast at around 11:07 a.m. PDT, then traveled across a swath of the U.S., from Texas to Maine, and into Canada.

About 31.6 million people live in the path of totality , the area where the moon fully blocked out the sun , according to NASA. The path ranged between 108 and 122 miles wide. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path of totality.

Solar eclipse path of totality map for 2024

The total solar eclipse started over the Pacific Ocean, and the first location in continental North America that experienced totality was Mexico's Pacific Coast, around 11:07 a.m. PDT, according to NASA. From there, the path continued into Texas, crossing more than a dozen states before the eclipse enters Canada in southern Ontario. The eclipse exited continental North America at around 5:16 p.m. NDT from Newfoundland, Canada.

The path of totality included portions of the following states:

• Pennsylvania
• New Hampshire

Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan also experienced the total solar eclipse.

Several major cities across the U.S. were included in the eclipse's path of totality, while many others saw a partial eclipse. These were some of the best major cities for eclipse viewing — though the weather was a factor :

• San Antonio, Texas (partially under the path)
• Austin, Texas
• Waco, Texas
• Dallas, Texas
• Little Rock, Arkansas
• Indianapolis, Indiana
• Dayton, Ohio
• Cleveland, Ohio
• Buffalo, New York
• Rochester, New York
• Syracuse, New York
• Burlington, Vermont

Map of when the solar eclipse reached totality across its path

The eclipse began in the U.S. as a partial eclipse beginning at 12:06 p.m. CDT near Eagle Pass, Texas, before progressing to totality by about 1:27 p.m. CDT and then moving along its path to the northeast over the following few hours.

NASA shared times for several cities in the path of totality across the U.S. People could have also  checked their ZIP code on NASA's map  to see when the eclipse was to reach them if they were on, or near, the path of totality — or if they saw a partial eclipse instead.

How much of the eclipse did people see if they live outside the totality path?

While the April 8 eclipse covered a wide swath of the U.S., outside the path of totality observers may have spotted a partial eclipse, where the moon covers some, but not all, of the sun, according to NASA. The closer they were to the path of totality, the larger the portion of the sun that was hidden.

NASA allowed viewers to input a ZIP code and see how much of the sun was to be covered in their locations.

Could there be cloud cover be during the solar eclipse?

Some areas along the path of totality had a higher likelihood of cloud cover that could interfere with viewing the eclipse. Here is a map showing the historical trends in cloud cover this time of year. 

You could have checked the latest forecast for your location with our partners at The Weather Channel .

Where did the solar eclipse reach totality for the longest?

Eclipse viewers near Torreón, Mexico, got to experience totality for the longest. Totality there lasted 4 minutes, 28 seconds, according to NASA. 

Most places along the centerline of the path of totality saw a totality duration of between 3.5 and 4 minutes, according to NASA. Some places in the U.S. came close to the maximum; Kerrville, Texas, had a totality duration of 4 minutes, 24 seconds.

What is the path of totality for the 2044 solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse that will be visible from the contiguous U.S. will be on Aug. 23, 2044.

Astronomy fans in the U.S. will have far fewer opportunities to see the 2044 eclipse they had on April 8. NASA has not yet made maps available for the 2044 eclipse but, according to The Planetary Society , the path of totality will only touch three states.

The 2024 eclipse will start in Greenland, pass over Canada and end as the sun sets in Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota, according to the Planetary Society.

Aliza Chasan is a digital producer at 60 Minutes and CBSNews.com. She has previously written for outlets including PIX11 News, The New York Daily News, Inside Edition and DNAinfo. Aliza covers trending news, often focusing on crime and politics.

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Travel Insurance

Cheapest travel insurance of April 2024

Mandy Sleight

Heidi Gollub

“Verified by an expert” means that this article has been thoroughly reviewed and evaluated for accuracy.

Updated 9:52 a.m. UTC April 11, 2024

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Editorial Note: Blueprint may earn a commission from affiliate partner links featured here on our site. This commission does not influence our editors' opinions or evaluations. Please view our full advertiser disclosure policy .

WorldTrips is the best cheap travel insurance company of 2024 based on our in-depth analysis of the cheapest travel insurance plans. Its Atlas Journey Preferred and Atlas Journey Premier plans offer affordable travel insurance with high limits for emergency medical and evacuation benefits bundled with good coverage for trip delays, travel inconvenience and missed connections.

Cheapest travel insurance of 2024

Why trust our travel insurance experts

Our team of travel insurance experts analyzes hundreds of insurance products and thousands of data points to help you find the best travel insurance for your next trip. We use a data-driven methodology to determine each rating. Advertisers do not influence our editorial content . You can read more about our methodology below.

• 1,855 coverage details evaluated.
• 567 rates reviewed.
• 5 levels of fact-checking.

Best cheap travel insurance

Top-scoring plans

Average cost, medical limit per person, medical evacuation limit per person, why it’s the best.

WorldTrips tops our rating of the cheapest travel insurance with two plans:

• Atlas Journey Preferred is the cheaper travel insurance plan of the two, with $100,000 per person in emergency medical benefits as secondary coverage and an optional upgrade to primary coverage. It’s also our pick for the best travel insurance for cruises .
• Atlas Journey Premier costs a little more but gives you $150,000 in travel medical insurance with primary coverage . This is a good option if health insurance for international travel is a priority.

Pros and cons

• Atlas Journey Preferred is the cheapest of our 5-star travel insurance plans.
• Atlas Journey Premier offers $150,000 in primary medical coverage.
• Both plans have top-notch $1 million per person in medical evacuation coverage.
• Each plan offers travel inconvenience coverage of $750 per person.
• 12 optional upgrades, including destination wedding and rental car damage and theft.
• No non-medical evacuation coverage.

Cheap travel insurance for cruises

Travel insured.

Top-scoring plan

Travel Insured offers cheap travel insurance for cruises and its Worldwide Trip Protector plan gets 4 stars in our rating of the best cruise travel insurance .

• Worldwide Trip Protector offers $1 million in emergency evacuation coverage per person and a rare $150,000 in non-medical evacuation per person. It also has primary coverage for travel medical insurance benefits, which means you won’t have to file medical claims with your health insurance first.
• Cheap trip insurance for cruises.
• Offers a rare $150,000 for non-medical evacuation.
• $500 per person baggage delay benefit only requires a 3-hour delay.
• Optional rental car damage benefit up to $50,000.
• Missed connection benefit of $500 per person only available for cruises and tours.

Best cheap travel insurance for families

Travelex has the best cheap travel insurance for families because kids age 17 are covered by your policy for free when they’re traveling with you.

• Free coverage for children 17 and under on the same policy.
• $2,000 travel delay coverage per person ($250 per day) after 5 hours.
• Hurricane and weather coverage after a common carrier delay of any amount of time.
• Only $50,000 per person emergency medical coverage.
• Baggage delay coverage is only $200 and requires a 12-hour delay.

Best cheap travel insurance for seniors

Evacuation limit per person

Nationwide has the best cheap travel insurance for seniors — its Prime plan gets 4 stars in our best senior travel insurance rating. However, Nationwide’s Cruise Choice plan ranks higher in our best cheap travel insurance rating.

• Cruise Choice has a $500 per person benefit if a cruise itinerary change causes you to miss a prepaid excursion. It also has a missed connections benefit of $1,500 per person after only a 3-hour delay, for cruises or tours. But note that this coverage is secondary coverage to any compensation provided by a common carrier.
• Coverage for cruise itinerary changes, ship-based mechanical breakdowns and covered shipboard service disruptions.
• Non-medical evacuation benefit of $25,000 per person.
• Baggage loss benefits of $2,500 per person.
• Travel medical coverage is secondary.
• Trip cancellation benefit for losing your job requires three years of continuous employment.
• No “cancel for any reason” (CFAR) upgrade available.
• Missed connection coverage of $1,500 per person is only for tours and cruises, after a 3-hour delay.

Best cheap travel insurance for add-on options

AIG offers the best cheap travel insurance for add-on options because the Travel Guard Preferred plan allows you to customize your policy with a host of optional upgrades.

• Travel Guard Preferred upgrades include “cancel for any reason” (CFAR) coverage , rental vehicle damage coverage and bundles that offer additional benefits for adventure sports, travel inconvenience, quarantine, pets, security and weddings. There’s also a medical bundle that increases the travel medical benefit to $100,000 and emergency evacuation to $1 million.
• Bundle upgrades allow you to customize your affordable travel insurance policy.
• Emergency medical and evacuation limits can be doubled with optional upgrade.
• Base travel insurance policy has relatively low medical limits.
• $300 baggage delay benefit requires a 12-hour delay.
• Optional CFAR upgrade only reimburses up to 50% of trip cost.

Best cheap travel insurance for missed connections

TravelSafe has the best cheap travel insurance for missed connections because coverage is not limited to cruises and tours, as it is with many policies.

• Best-in-class $2,500 per person in missed connection coverage.
• $1 million per person in medical evacuation and $25,000 in non-medical evacuation coverage.
• Generous $2,500 per person baggage and personal items loss benefit.
• Most expensive of the best cheap travel insurance plans.
• No “interruption for any reason” coverage available.
• Weak baggage delay coverage of $250 per person after 12 hours.

Cheapest travel insurance comparison

How much does the cheapest travel insurance cost?

The cheapest travel insurance in our rating is $334. This is for a WorldTrips Atlas Journey Preferred travel insurance plan, based on the average of seven quotes for travelers of various ages to international destinations with a range of trip values.  

Factors that determine travel insurance cost

There are several factors that determine the cost of travel insurance, including:

• Age and number of travelers being insured.
• Trip length.
• Total trip cost.
• The travel insurance plan you choose.
• The travel insurance company.
• Any add-ons, features or upgraded benefits you include in the travel insurance plan.

Expert tip: “In general, travelers can expect to pay anywhere from 4% to 10% of their total prepaid, non-refundable trip costs,” said Suzanne Morrow, CEO of InsureMyTrip.

Is buying the cheapest travel insurance a good idea?

Choosing cheaper travel insurance without paying attention to what a plan covers and excludes could leave you underinsured for your trip. Comparing travel insurance plans side-by-side can help ensure you get enough coverage to protect yourself financially in an emergency for the best price. 

For example, compare these two Travelex travel insurance plans:

• Travel Basic is cheaper but it only provides up to $15,000 for emergency medical expense coverage. You’ll also have to pay extra for coverage for children.
• Travel Select will cost you a bit more but it covers up to $50,000 in medical expenses and includes coverage for kids aged 17 and younger traveling with you. It also offers upgrades such additional medical coverage, “cancel for any reason” (CFAR) coverage and an adventure sports rider that may be a good fit for your trip.

Reasons to consider paying more for travel insurance 

Make sure you understand what you’re giving up if you buy the cheapest travel insurance. Here are a few reasons you may consider paying a little extra for better coverage. 

• Emergency medical. The best travel medical insurance offers primary coverage for emergency medical benefits. Travel insurance with primary coverage can cost more than secondary coverage but will save you from having to file a claim with your health insurance company before filing a travel insurance claim.
• Emergency evacuation. If you’re traveling to a remote location or planning a boat excursion on your trip, look at travel insurance with a high medical evacuation insurance limit. If you are injured while traveling, transportation to the nearest adequate medical facility could cost in the tens to hundreds of thousands. It may make sense to pay more for travel insurance with robust emergency evacuation coverage. 
• Flexibility. To maximize your trip flexibility, you might consider upgrading your travel insurance to “ cancel for any reason” (CFAR) coverage . This will increase the cost of your travel insurance but allow you to cancel your trip for any reason — not just those listed in your policy. The catch is that you’ll need to cancel at least 48 hours before your trip and will only be reimbursed 50% or 75% of your trip expenses, depending on the plan. 
• Upgrades. Many travel insurance plans have optional extras like car rental collision and adventure sports (which may otherwise be excluded from coverage). These will cost you extra but may give you the coverage you need. 

How to find the cheapest travel insurance

The best way to find the cheapest travel insurance is to determine what you’re looking for in a travel insurance policy and compare plans that meet your needs.

 “Travel insurance isn’t one-size-fits-all. Every trip is different, and every traveler has different needs, wants and concerns. This is why comparison is key,” said Morrow.

Consider the following factors when comparing cheap travel insurance plans.

• How often you’re traveling. A single-trip policy may be the most cost-effective if you’re only going on a single trip this year. But a multi-trip travel insurance plan may be cheaper if you’re going on multiple international trips throughout the year. Annual travel insurance policies cover you for a whole year as long as each trip doesn’t exceed a certain number of days, usually 30 to 90 days. 
• Credit card has travel insurance benefits. The best credit cards offer perks and benefits, and many offer travel insurance-specific benefits. The coverage types and benefit limits can vary, and you must put the entire trip cost on the credit card to use the coverage. If your trip costs more than the coverage limit on your card, you can supplement the rest with a cheaper travel insurance plan.
• The coverage you need. When looking for the best travel insurance option at the most affordable price, only buy extras and upgrades you really need. A basic plan may only provide up to $500 in baggage insurance, but if you only plan to take $300 worth of clothes and accessories, you don’t need to pay more for higher coverage limits.

Is cheap travel insurance worth it?

Cheap travel insurance can be worth it, as long as you understand the plan limitations and exclusions. Taking the time to read your policy, especially the fine print, well before your trip can ensure there won’t be any surprises about what’s covered once your journey begins.

“If a traveler is looking for coverage for travel delays, cancellations, interruptions, medical and baggage — a comprehensive travel insurance policy will provide the most bang for their buck,” said Morrow. But if you’re on a tight budget and are only worried about emergency medical care and evacuation coverage while traveling abroad, stand-alone options are cheaper.

Before buying travel insurance, you should also consider what your health insurance will cover. 

“Most domestic health insurance plans, including Medicare, will not cover medical bills abroad,” said Morrow. Even if you’re staying stateside, you may find value in an affordable travel insurance plan with medical coverage if you have a high-deductible health plan (HDHP). 

A cheap travel insurance plan is better than none at all if you end up in a situation that would have covered some or all of your prepaid, nonrefundable trip expenses.

Methodology

Our insurance experts reviewed 1,855 coverage details and 567 rates to determine the best travel insurance . From those top-scoring travel insurance plans, we chose the most affordable for our rating of the cheapest travel insurance.

Insurers could score up to 100 points based on the following factors:

• Cost: 40 points. We scored the average cost of each travel insurance policy for a variety of trips and traveler profiles.
• Medical expenses: 10 points. We scored travel medical insurance by the coverage amount available. Travel insurance policies with emergency medical expense benefits of $250,000 or more per person were given the highest score of 10 points.
• Medical evacuation: 10 points. We scored each plan’s emergency medical evacuation coverage by coverage amount. Travel insurance policies with medical evacuation expense benefits of $500,000 or more per person were given the highest score of 10 points.
• Pre-existing medical condition exclusion waiver: 10 points. We gave full points to travel insurance policies that cover pre-existing medical conditions if certain conditions are met.
• Missed connection: 10 points. Travel insurance plans with missed connection benefits of $1,000 per person or more received full points.
• “Cancel for any reason” upgrade: 5 points. We gave points to travel insurance plans with optional “cancel for any reason” coverage that reimburses up to 75%.
• Travel delay required waiting time: 5 points. We gave 5 points to travel insurance policies with travel delay benefits that kick in after a delay of 6 hours or less.
• Cancel for work reasons: 5 points. If a travel insurance plan allows you to cancel your trip for work reasons, such as your boss requiring you to stay and work, we gave it 5 points.
• Hurricane and severe weather: 5 points. Travel insurance plans that have a required waiting period for hurricane and weather coverage of 12 hours or less received 5 points.

Some travel insurance companies may offer plans with additional benefits or lower prices than the plans that scored the highest, so make sure to compare travel insurance quotes to see your full range of options.

Cheapest travel insurance FAQs

When buying travel insurance, cheapest is not always the best. The most affordable travel insurance plans typically offer fewer coverages with lower policy limits and few or no optional upgrades. Add up your total nonrefundable trip costs and compare travel insurance plans and available features that cover your travel expenses. This strategy can help you find the cheapest travel insurance policy that best protects you from financial loss if an unforeseen circumstance arises.

Get the coverage you need: Best travel insurance of 2024

According to our analysis, WorldTrips , Travel Insured International and Travelex offer the best cheap travel insurance. Policy coverage types and limits can vary by each travel insurance provider, so the best way to get the cheapest travel insurance plan is to compare several policies and companies to find the right fit for your budget.

A good rate for travel insurance depends on your budget and coverage needs. The most comprehensive travel insurance plan is usually not the cheapest. But cheap trip insurance may not have enough coverage or the types of coverage you want. Comparing different levels of coverage and how much they cost can help you find the best cheap insurance for travel. 

The average cost of travel insurance is between 5% to 6% of your total travel expenses for one trip, according to our analysis of rates. However, you may find cheaper travel insurance if you opt for a plan with fewer benefits or lower coverage limits. How much you pay for travel insurance will also depend on the number of travelers covered, their ages, the length of the trip and any upgrades you add to your plan.

Travel insurance covers nonrefundable, prepaid trip costs — up to the policy coverage limits — when your trip is interrupted or canceled for a covered reason outlined in your plan documents. Even the cheapest travel insurance policies usually provide coverage for:

• Medical emergencies.
• Trip delays.
• Trip interruption.
• Trip cancellation.
• Lost, stolen or damaged luggage.

However, if you’re looking to save on travel insurance, you can shop for a policy that only has travel medical insurance and does not include benefits for trip cancellation .

Even when you buy cheap travel insurance, you can often use upgrade options to customize your policy to meet your specific needs. 

Some common travel insurance add-ons you may want to consider include:

• Rental car damage coverage. 
• Medical bundle.
• Security bundle.
• Accidental death and dismemberment coverage.
• Adventure sports bundle.
• Pet bundle.
• Wedding bundle.
• “Cancel for work reasons” coverage.
• “Interruption for any reason” (IFAR) coverage.
• “Cancel for any reason” (CFAR) coverage .

Blueprint is an independent publisher and comparison service, not an investment advisor. The information provided is for educational purposes only and we encourage you to seek personalized advice from qualified professionals regarding specific financial decisions. Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Blueprint has an advertiser disclosure policy . The opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Blueprint editorial staff alone. Blueprint adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. The information is accurate as of the publish date, but always check the provider’s website for the most current information.

Mandy is an insurance writer who has been creating online content since 2018. Before becoming a full-time freelance writer, Mandy spent 15 years working as an insurance agent. Her work has been published in Bankrate, MoneyGeek, The Insurance Bulletin, U.S. News and more.

Heidi Gollub is the USA TODAY Blueprint managing editor of insurance. She was previously lead editor of insurance at Forbes Advisor and led the insurance team at U.S. News & World Report as assistant managing editor of 360 Reviews. Heidi has an MBA from Emporia State University and is a licensed property and casualty insurance expert.

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