There’re no better destinations than Europe, which is a cluster of diverse cultures, popular touristic landmarks and some of the most beautiful vistas of the world. This guide will help you plan your first Europe trip, or come up with your next one if you’re already a frequent traveler there. Planning your European adventure has never been easier with Expedia for flights and Vrbo for accommodations.
Why Travel to Europe?
Europe’s diversity is its charm. There is something for everyone, be it the romantic streets of Paris, the historic ruins of Rome, the vibrant nightlife of Berlin or the serene fjords of Norway. High speed trains and budget airlines make it very easy to hop between countries, and the continent has an efficient transportation system. Europe has something for everyone, whether you’re traveling with loved ones or by yourself.
How to Plan Your Europe Trip
Europe trip planning can be overwhelming, but it is easy once you break it down into steps. Start by determining what your interests are—history buffs would probably prioritize cities like Athens or Vienna; nature lovers would possibly head to the Swiss Alps or Iceland. Book cheap flights with Expedia and Vrbo for the best vacation rentals at the right price. After you’ve decided on your destinations, make a flexible itinerary giving you time for exploration and relaxation.
Building Your Europe Trip Itinerary
There are so many options with an itinerary in Europe. For the first time traveler, popular cities such as Paris, Rome, Amsterdam and Barcelona are must visits. If you are looking for off the beaten path adventures, try Porto in Portugal or Krakow in Poland.
- One Week: Paris → Amsterdam → Brussels
- Two Weeks: Italy (Rome → Florence → Venice) + Switzerland
- Three Weeks: Spain + Portugal + Southern France
One of the best ways to travel through Europe is by train. With its extensive rail network, scenic routes and convenience (especially with its Eurail Pass for multi country travel), it’s a great way to travel. Train journeys through the Swiss Alps or along Italy’s Amalfi Coast are things you won’t forget.
Traveling Europe on a Budget
You don’t have to spend a fortune to travel Europe. Cost effective flights between cities can be found on budget airlines such as Ryanair and Wizz Air, and Vrbo has cost effective accommodation options for families or groups. If you stay in a rental with a kitchen, you’ll save money by cooking some meals at home. Moreover, European cities often have free walks tours and city passes with reduced price to prominent attractions. Eastern Europe is a great place to look for budget friendly destinations. Budapest, Sofia and Krakow are cities that offer incredible value, without sacrificing on charm or experiences. Another cheap way to get around most cities and regions in Europe is public transportation.
Solo Travel in Europe
Traveling through Europe alone is empowering and you can explore at your own pace. Generally, the continent is safe to travel alone, and so are countries like Denmark, Switzerland and Austria. Research destinations before hand and book with Expedia or Vrbo for well reviewed accommodations to ensure a smooth trip. Solo travel also means you get to meet new people via hostels or group tours (and enjoy some moments of self discovery along the way).
Packing Essentials and Travel Resources
To have any European adventure, you have to pack smartly. Your passport (and Schengen visa if required), travel insurance, comfortable walking shoes, weather appropriate clothing, and electronic adapters for European outlets are essentially essential. And, nothing important is left behind when you have a detailed checklist! Use Google Maps for navigation and Rome2Rio to plan transportation between cities or country. So if you want to book flights and hotels bundled together, Expedia is there to help; if you are looking for something a little bit different in terms of a stay, Vrbo is there.
Regional Highlights: A Quick Travel Guide
Europe’s regions each offer distinct experiences:
- Western Europe: Explore iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower in Paris or the Colosseum in Rome while savoring world-class cuisine in France or Italy.
- Central & Eastern Europe: Wander through Prague’s Old Town Square or soak in Budapest’s famous thermal baths for a mix of history and relaxation.
- Northern Europe: Discover Norway’s majestic fjords or witness Iceland’s natural wonders like geysers and waterfalls—perfect for nature enthusiasts!
A detailed travel map can help you map out your route and make sure you don’t miss those highlights. Other great resources to plan activities that interest you are digital guides from tourism boards or the Lonely Planet app.
Conclusion: Make Your Dream Trip a Reality
Europe is an adventure, full of memories waiting to be made, while traveling through. If you’re traveling solo or with loved ones, planning ahead with tools such as Expedia and Vrbo will ensure you have a hassle free experience, from start to finish. Get on booking your flights, accommodations, and activities today—your dream European getaway is waiting !
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