Planning a trip through Europe is a key step in creating memories worth cherishing.
Imagine exploring centuries-old castle walls in Germany, strolling down the cobbled streets of Rome, or sailing the shimmering blue waters of the Mediterranean with the French Riviera as your backdrop. You’ll agree—each of these destinations sounds magical.

Whether it’s your first time traveling through Europe or you’re a seasoned tourist, one thing is certain: the Old Continent leaves no one indifferent. With its rich culture, fascinating history, breathtaking landscapes, and incredible cuisine, every European country offers its own unique charm.

However, with so many options, planning a European trip can become quite overwhelming—even confusing. That’s why the European Tourist Centre is here to offer tips that will help you plan your dream European getaway—without stress or anxiety.

Choose Your Destination

Where do you want to go? That’s the big first question!
There are many factors to consider: Have you been to Europe before? How much time do you have? Who will you be traveling with? Which countries have you always wanted to visit?

Do you love theatre and royal palaces? Go to England!
Are you a fan of golf, wild landscapes, and whisky? Then Scotland is calling!
Have you always wanted to attend Oktoberfest? Germany in September is your answer.
If you're passionate about art and fashion, head to France.

Of course, the list goes on and on. The point is: visit the European destinations that have always intrigued you the most. Start with those.
Keep in mind, for a truly enjoyable trip, the focus should be on quality, not quantity.

Instead of trying to see too many cities in a short amount of time, limit your itinerary to three or four destinations. This way, you won’t feel exhausted from constantly rushing from one place to another. Plus, you’ll have enough time to soak in the real spirit of each city as you wander its quiet, charming side streets. It’s these small discoveries that make traveling through Europe so unforgettable!

Think About the Best Time to Travel

One of the best things about Europe is that it's attractive all year round. Each season offers incredible travel opportunities. So the decision about when to go really depends on your preferences.

Once you decide on your travel dates, the next step is to book your flight. To save money, it's often best to book a round-trip ticket from the same airport. However, to save time, consider booking an open-jaw ticket, where you arrive in one city and depart from another.

Be sure to check multiple flight search engines to find the best deals. Also, review the airline's baggage policies. If your flight includes a layover, double-check the time between connections. Sitting at an airport for hours waiting for your next flight can eat into your vacation time. Sometimes it's better to pay a bit more for a quicker, more convenient journey.

Book Great Accommodation in Europe

Once you know your European route and travel dates, you can start booking accommodation. Again, there are many things to consider:

How many people are traveling together? Do you need one room or several?
Are you looking for a luxury hotel, a bed and breakfast, a private apartment—or maybe even a villa?
Do you want to stay near a metro station, in the city center, or close to specific attractions?

The answers to these and similar questions will help you make the best choice.
Experts recommend taking your personal taste and interests into account, along with all the above.

Don’t forget to consider the local aspect as well—choose accommodation that gives you a chance to meet locals and truly experience the culture of the country you're visiting.

Choose Amazing Activities in Every European Destination

Research, research, research! Visit all the must-see landmarks on your city’s tourist map. Check ahead of time whether museums or attractions you want to visit are open on the days you’ll be there. It’s often a good idea to buy skip-the-line tickets to save precious time.

While it’s important to see the famous sights, don’t miss out on places and experiences off the beaten path. Leave a little room in your itinerary for spontaneous adventures and let your heart guide you. It’s in those hidden corners—beyond the typical tourist spots—where the real magic of a city comes alive.

To fully enjoy your trip, take some time before you leave to learn about the local culture and customs of the countries you’ll be visiting. For example:

  • In Italy, don’t order cappuccino after 11 a.m.—it’s just not done.
  • In Turkey, bargaining is expected when shopping.
  • In Spain, be prepared for late dinners—most locals don’t eat before 10 p.m.

These small cultural tips will help you blend in more easily and give you a more authentic European experience.

Choose the European Tourist Centre

For easier trip planning, visit the EUTC – European Tourist Centre platform. In one place, you’ll find everything you need for a once-in-a-lifetime journey.

EUTC will connect you with the best destinations in Europe and help you find the most suitable accommodation and transportation options. But that’s not all. Our team of experts works with trusted local partners to provide you with an authentic experience tailored to your interests and preferences.

From exclusive tours and event visits to tasting local delicacies in top restaurants—European Tourist Centre can help you plan your journey flawlessly.