How to Plan a European Vacation in Eight Easy Steps
- Decide where you want to go and create a budget. …
- Establish a route and timeline. …
- Decide on the cities you'll fly in and out of. …
- Figure out other transportation. …
- Make a rough itinerary. …
- Adjust by cutting, streamlining, or adding to fit your timeline or budget.
How far in advance should you plan a trip to Europe?
A good rule of thumb for planning a trip to Europe is to take at least six months. And if you really want to benefit from early preparation, a year may be even better. That ample time can play a pivotal role in helping you: Create the trip of a lifetime.
How much money do I need to vacation in Europe?
How much does a European vacation cost?
| Expense | Estimated cost |
|---|---|
| Local transportation | $0 to $30 per day, depending on whether you walk, drive, or use public transportation |
| Food & drink | $25 to $100 per day, depending on whether you are cooking or eating out |
| Attractions | $0 to $100 per day |
| Spending money | $0 to $100 per day |
Which country is best to visit in Europe for the first time?
For an essential experience of glamour, luxury, and beauty, France should be your first stop in Europe. Our Fabulous Paris, Provence, and French Riviera Tour inspires unforgettable memories in breathtaking scenery and exceptional culture.
How much money do you need for a 3 week vacation in Europe?
You can use the costs in our table above, and the $100-per-day rule of thumb, to calculate how much money you'll need for your trip. So for a three-week trip, you'll be needing over $2,000. But it really does depend on what country you're traveling to and what you plan to do, eat and drink while you're there.
How do I plan a trip to Europe for myself?
What is the best way to travel through Europe?
Trains in Europe work really well and they usually link all the most beautiful cities, even in different countries. You can even travel by bus if you like it more. Buses travel all around Europe and they link lots of cities, and they are very cheap.
What month of the year is best to go to Europe?
Overall, late March to early June, and September to November are the best times to visit, as you'll avoid the busier summer period and see your money go further. Northern Europe is generally warm and dry between May and September, while farther south, temperatures can reach 36°C (96°F) between July and August.
What is the most affordable time of year to go to Europe?
The late fall and winter months—from mid to late October through mid-to-late March—are often the cheapest time to fly to Europe (though fares can spike in December). It's often cheaper to fly to Europe mid-week, on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, in particular.
Can I use my credit card in Europe?
When Europeans buy something with plastic, they insert their card, then type in their PIN. Despite some differences between European and US cards, there's little to worry about: US credit cards (Visa and MasterCard) generally work fine in Europe.
Is it better to drive or train around Europe?
For many travelers, the pleasure of journeying along Europe's rails really is as good as the destination. Train travel, though not as flexible as driving, can be less stressful. On a train, you can forget about parking hassles, confusing road signs, speed limits, bathroom stops, and Italian drivers.
Do American debit cards work in Europe?
Debit cards with a Mastercard or Visa logo are widely accepted in Europe. American Express is somewhat less common, except at tourist destinations. Most banks charge a foreign transaction fee and/or a currency conversion fee, so it is worth double-checking these costs before departure.