Lets dive right into some tips for Europe travel this summer, so you can make the most of your Euro summer!
Who hasn’t dreamed of a Euro summer? The culture, the history, the food!
If you’re planning on sunning yourself on the majestic coastlines or, per chance, finding romance in the charming old towns, Europe will be the summer experience of a lifetime.
To make the most of your time abroad, here are a few things to consider to help with planning.
Best time to visit Europe
Some might say that Europe truly comes alive between June and August so, while this makes for great weather and plenty of festivals to experience it also means these are the busiest and most expensive months. This is especially the case for tourist hotspots like London, Paris, Rome, or Barcelona.
Consider hitting the shoulder seasons of early June or late August to still make the most of the sunny, warm days but with fewer crowds and more manageable prices on accommodations and travel.
Keeping things affordable
Most people assume that a Euro summer comes with an unavoidably high price tag but, with some forethought to your travel, there are a number of ways to keep your trip surprisingly budget-friendly.
Take advantage of low-cost airlines like Ryanair, easyJet, and Wizz Air to find flights for exceptionally low prices (we’re talking 15 Euros low). Just be sure to read through the fine print to spot any hidden fees or additional charges for baggage.
If you prefer to take the scenic route, train travel can also be an affordable option. The Eurail Global pass can take you across the continent to experience multiple destinations throughout your trip.
Hoping for shorter jaunts? FlixBus and BlaBlaCar are also economical and reliable ways to travel regionally.
Hidden gems in Europe
Sure, you could head down the typical checklist for a Euro summer, but wouldn’t you rather seek out something special without the crowds and high price tags?
Instead of the Amalfi Coast, consider Cinque Terre. Swap Kotor, Montenegro for busy Croatian beaches. Skip Paris and head to Annecy. You won’t be sacrificing on culture, views, or unique experiences by taking the roads less travelled.
Euro summer attire
Pack light as much as possible, including cotton, linen, and other breathable fabrics. You can expect temperature to range anywhere from the mid 20s to the high 30s (around 70 – 90 degrees Fahrenheit), so you’ll want to dress accordingly.
Be ready to walk with comfortable sandals, and stay sun safe with a wide-brimmed hat. If you want to blend in, go for smart-casual outfits without ostentatious branding.
If you might be heading to religious sites, keep a light scarf or extra layer to adhere to modesty standards. Oh, and don’t forget sunscreen!
Cultural etiquette
While etiquette can vary country to country, there are a number of general rules that translate across the continent and are worth knowing for your Euro summer.
For example, tipping is not the norm, though some places might appreciate it if you round up the bill with a few extra euros. Countries with higher service wages, such as in Scandinavia, never expect diners to tip extra on bills.
Greetings can range from a double air kiss, cheek-to-cheek in Spain, Italy, and France, while northern countries opt for a firm handshake. When in doubt, let the local take the lead and follow their example.
In all countries, be sure to respect the fact that people live in this beautiful region year round. These are their hometowns and should be visited mindfully. Observe quiet hours, do not litter, and be aware of where you’re wandering.
Get a Europe eSIM for mobile data on-the-go
A handy tip for staying connected in Europe is to get an eSIM. An eSIM gives you access to mobile data, so you can have internet access wherever you travel in Europe. Plus, you save on expensive roaming fees.
With aloSIM, you can get a Europe eSIM, which comes with a free international phone number for calling/texting abroad!
This Euro summer is going to be one for the books!
