A European vacation can be a thing of real beauty and wonder. Not only is it perhaps the most varied and culturally rich continent on the planet, but it’s also so easy to get around, particularly the Eastern block, where it can be as simple as hopping on a boat or a train to get to the next country.
There are still, however, numerous hurdles to overcome if you wish to have a truly transcendent holiday. So, what tips should you be taking to heed if you’re planning a European holiday at some point in the near future? Please read on.
Avoid the summer
Whilst the summer months have an undeniably idyllic quality to them that makes vacationing feel that much more special, most of the major European destinations are going to be much busier during June, July, and August. If you are not keen on standing in line then you might want to avoid these months like the plague.
Consider a villa
If you are after a more relaxed and contemplative European holiday, why not invite a few close friends along and hire a villa instead of the usual package hotel deal? Not only will you have the whole place to yourself (not to mention your very own pool) but you would be amazed at the deals to be found on sites as Villa Plus. You might never book a hotel again!
Check your Visa
Being denied entry to a country can really put a downer on your holiday. Many countries in Europe don’t require a visa as long as you’re only staying for a few days or so, but some do. Make sure you check before you travel to avoid any awkward situations at the border!
Travel light
Europe is a vast continent with a lot to see and do, so you’ll be doing a lot of traveling. Make sure you travel as light as possible to cut down on luggage fees and make your journeys between hotels feel less of a chore. A rookie holiday mistake is to bring an outfit for every day of the holiday as if Laundromats don’t exist!
Travel cheap
Budget airlines such as Ryanair and EasyJet might not be glamorous, but if you’re only flying short-haul then comfort is really not an issue and you will save a small fortune. Just remember not to be roped in by any of the ‘optional extras.’ Alternatively, travel by train. It’s far less of a hassle than flying and there is something vaguely romantic about the notion of seeing Europe by train.
Book in advance
Traveling by the seat of your pants can be fun and exciting, but it will also be costly. You’ll find that you can save countless euros by booking your hotels, tours and everything else possible in advance.
Carry money
Finally, perhaps the most important European travel tip – make sure to get a decent amount of euros as in many European countries, cold hard cash is still the preferred method of payment.