10 Top Travel Tips for Europe, According to Tour Guides

Europe is the most visited continent in the world, welcoming 747 million tourists in 2024, according to The UN’s World Tourism Organization. Yet, the number of travel faux pas you can expect to see tourists make while strolling the streets of Milan, meandering through ancient ruins in Athens, or cruising around the Mediterranean remains pretty high considering the increase in visits to Europe’s major cities. 

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

From disrespecting local customs to getting pickpocketed, to forgetting to reapply sunscreen to overpacking, European tour guides have truly seen it all. Below, two tour operators share the most common mistakes they see tourists make in Europe and the solutions they recommend to become a better traveler (that are easier and more affordable than you might think).

Tour Guide-approved Europe Travel Essentials

Vionic Uptown Women’s Loafers

“In Rome (and most historic European cities), cobblestones and uneven streets make high heels a dangerous game,” Kenny Dunn, CEO & Founder of Eating Europe, told Travel + Leisure—and yet, so many tourists take their chances. While “style is everything” in Italy, he quipped, you’d be better off packing and wearing flat shoes like Vionic’s popular Uptown Loafers to “avoid a very unfashionable fall” that could potentially ruin your trip. Further, don’t forget to break them in before the trip to avoid any uncomfortable blisters that may appear with new shoes.

Chelmon Leather Change Holder

We live in such a digital, on-demand world that today, everyone assumes they can tip on their credit card receipt. “One of the biggest surprises for Americans is that in much of Europe, there’s no line to add a tip on the card slip,” Dunn shared. That’s because tipping isn’t in their culture, but Americans still might wish to add gratuity for excellent service. “The solution is keeping some euro coins handy for tipping, like locals do,” he explained. A coin pouch with a key ring is an easy fix to ensure you always have some change accessible. Pro tip: If you forget to pack or purchase a coin purse ahead of your travels, many souvenir shops sell them for only a couple of Euros. 

Holii Travel Pill Organizer

If you’re on any kind of medication, it’s so important to bring a sufficient amount of doses for the duration of the trip. In fact, Stavros Makris, co-founder of Bearing True South based in Athens, Greece, says you should pack extra doses in case of flight delays or cancellations that prolong your trip. To keep them organized, purchase a simple pill case or two and keep the second one as your “just in case” stash. Further, “Make sure to learn the local name of the medication(s) you’re taking, since most drugs have different names in Europe, and if possible, have your doctor’s prescription with you,” Makris advised. And most importantly, don’t forget to inform your guide of any allergies or health conditions they should know to streamline the process in case of emergency. 

Bagail Packing Cubes

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

SunSingles Travel Sunscreen Packets

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

Rotayi Collapsible Water Bottle 

When it comes to fighting heat exhaustion, staying hydrated is as important as applying sunscreen. “Pack a reusable water bottle as tap water is drinkable in most places in Europe,” Makris advised. If you know you’re susceptible to overheating, you should also pack some hydration packs to add to your water bottle on longer tour days. 

Simptech Mini Crossbody Sling Bag

Many travelers feel comfortable in Europe as it’s another Western city, but the amount of local scams and pickpockets is constantly an issue among guests. “Learn how to be comfortable standing your ground and saying ‘NO,’ secure your personal belongings, and avoid overcrowded train carriages,” Makris instructed. The best way to secure your personal belongings is by keeping them close in a crossbody bag rather than in your pockets or in a backpack, where they’re not in your line of vision. 

Moleskin Mini Notebook

It’s so easy to inadvertently disrespect local customs and culture when you are used to a different way of life. A little research goes a long way, Makris said: “Learn the local customs and follow the rules, even if they don’t make much sense, and you’ll feel accepted, valued, and welcomed.” On that note, keep a small notebook with you with some key phrases to help you get by and encourage more authentic interactions with the locals. While you can also keep key phrases on your phone, technology can be misconstrued and act as a barrier, so it’s better to have the paper in front of you. Again, a simple ciao or merci goes a long way with the locals. 

RXBar Protein Bars

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

Nuun Sport Hydration + Caffeine

Many Americans are shocked by the size of espresso in Europe. “Visitors order a coffee expecting a tall mug and instead stare at the tiny cup of espresso like it’s a joke,” Dunn said. To get both a cultural experience but also sate your caffeine habits, order the espresso and enjoy the quick, concentrated shot, then pack an electrolyte tablet infused with caffeine in your day bag to help you keep feeling energized while on the go. 

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