If you are traveling to Europe for the first time and wondering which cities you should add to your itinerary, you’ve found the perfect blog post! Keep reading to discover the 17 most popular cities to add to your European bucket list, along with their top attractions!
Ah… Europe! Who doesn’t dream of traveling there and visiting the many popular cities? But planning a trip to the European continent can be a real headache. There are so many places and countries to consider that it is quite impossible to fit them all into one trip—unless you are staying for a year…
After living and traveling there almost my entire life, I can assure you that no matter where you go, you are going to have a blast if you are traveling to Europe for the first time—or the second, third, fourth…
To help you make the most of your trip, here are 17 must-see cities for your first time in Europe! You probably won’t be able to visit them all, but with the tips and top attractions I’m going to give you, you will be able to make your choice with all the information you need!
Keep reading and start planning, you are traveling to Europe for the first time soon!
This blog post highlights the 17 most popular cities to consider if you are traveling to Europe for the first time!
17 CITIES TO ADD TO YOUR BUCKET LIST WHEN TRAVELING TO EUROPE FOR THE FIRST TIME!
Traveling to Europe for the first time is quite a big deal. Chances are, you’ve been saving up for a long time to afford this trip. But don’t worry! With my tips and this list of 17 European cities to consider visiting, you will be more than ready when you get there!
QUICK EUROPEAN TRIP TIPS
Before getting into the must-see cities for your first time in Europe, let me share a few travel tips to help you plan your European vacation and make the most of it!
BEFORE YOU GO
- Plan ahead: Whether you want to book flights, accommodations, or even attraction tickets, try to book as much as you can in advance to avoid bad surprises.
- Learn the basics of the local language: I’m not saying you should become fluent before your trip, but a few phrases could be really helpful, and the locals will appreciate it!
- Check the visa requirements: Visit the government websites of the countries you plan to visit to check the visa requirements. Most of Europe requires a Schengen visa, but it might be different in some cases.
SAVING MONEY THERE
- Use public transportation: Public transportation in Europe is reliable and fairly safe. Don’t break the bank by taking a cab every time you want to go somewhere. To save even more money, buy a ticket booklet.
- Walk, walk, walk: If the attractions you want to visit are within walking distance of each other, just walk! There is no better way to discover European cities than by wandering around.
- Consider hostels: Hotels and accommodations, in general, are expensive in Europe, especially in the most famous cities. Consider staying in hostels and shared dormitories if you are on a budget
SAFETY TIPS
- Be aware of pickpockets: Europe is sadly famous for its pickpockets, so keep an eye on your belongings at all times, especially in crowded areas such as tourist spots and public transportation.
- Keep copies of your identification papers: Visa, ID, passport, and other important documents! Keep digital and physical copies in case something happens.
BANK AND CURRENCY EXCHANGE
- Avoid currency exchange offices: The exchange rates from your bank or local ATMs are often better than those offered by currency exchange offices. Ask your bank back home for your options.
- Always carry some cash: I’m not saying you should carry hundreds of euros with you, but some local markets and small boutiques won’t accept cards.
FOOD RELATED TIPS
- Try local food: It doesn’t matter which part of Europe you are visiting, try the local cuisine. I’ve never been disappointed with any of it!
- Avoid touristy restaurants: To do so, avoid eating in touristy spots. The best restaurants are typically hidden and located in less popular places.
- Drink tap water: In most European countries, it is absolutely fine to drink tap water, so do so! It will save you a ton of money and reduce plastic waste!
REGARDING THE ATTRACTIONS
- Book your attraction tickets online: To avoid queues and ensure you can visit attractions at the time and day you want, book them online in advance.
- Make the most of free attractions: There are a ton of free things to do and see in Europe, so make the most of them!
YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: EUROPE TRAVEL HACKS, WHAT YOU SHOULDN’T DO THERE!
must-see cities for your first time in Europe
Now, let’s get into what you are really looking for… the most popular cities to consider when traveling to Europe for the first time! And believe me, it doesn’t matter which ones you choose to visit, you will love them all!
Vienna, Austria
If you are into history, art, and music, you are going to love Vienna. The city offers a unique blend of imperial splendor, culture, and modernity.
You might have heard about the musical heritage of Vienna before, but if you haven’t, here is some information that might convince you to visit when traveling to Europe for the first time.
First of all, it is the home city of Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss, so if you are into classical music, you should already be convinced. You can even attend concerts at the Opera or the Musikverein.
If classical music isn’t your thing, don’t worry—there is much more to Vienna. Spectacular architecture, palaces, well-preserved historical buildings, famous traditional cafés, and delicious pastries like the Sachertorte and the Apfelstrudel… There really is something for everyone!
To help you build your itinerary, here are the 5 most important tourist attractions to visit:
- Schönbrunn Palace
- St. Stephen’s Cathedral (Stephansdom)
- Belvedere Palace
- The Museum Quarter (MuseumsQuartier)
- The Prater and its giant Ferris wheel
Want more tips for your trip to Vienna? Here you go!
- Buy a Vienna Card to save money: This card gives you discounts on museum entry fees and unlimited access to public transportation.
- Don’t miss out on the local cuisine: Try traditional dishes and pastries in the famous cafés.
- Go to a concert: A must for everyone visiting Vienna; after all, the city is renowned for its classical music culture.
- Visit the Naschmarkt: The most famous market in the capital is the best place to discover fresh products and local specialties, and connect with locals.
Stockholm, Sweden
If you are looking for the perfect blend of tradition, spectacular scenery, high quality of life, and modernity, Stockholm is the place for you!
Did you know that the city is built on 14 islands connected by bridges? Imagine the kind of scenery you would be able to see there! It would be hard to find better city views if you are traveling to Europe for the first time…
But be aware that views like that come at a cost. Indeed, Stockholm is one of the most expensive cities in Europe to live in or travel to, so you might need to take that into account when planning your trip—especially if you are on a budget.
If you can afford it and want to visit the Swedish capital, here are 5 must-see attractions to add to your itinerary!
- Gamla Stan (the Old Town)
- Vasa Museum
- Skansen (the oldest outdoor museum in the world)
- Moderna Museet (Modern Art Museum)
- ABBA: The Museum
Looking for more tips to visit this city? Keep reading!
- Use public transportation or cycle: Between the metro, buses, and ferries, there is no place you can’t get to with public transportation in Stockholm. If the weather is nice, cycle through the city! You will get the best views and a little workout at the same time.
- Travel there during summer: As Stockholm is located in the northern part of Europe, days during summer are long and sunny, making it the perfect time to visit! On the contrary, during winter, days are really short and freezing cold!
- Be aware of the cost: As previously mentioned, Stockholm is an expensive city to travel to. So be aware of the costs, and plan your budget as well as you can to avoid surprises.
Florence, Italy
A real jewel of the Renaissance, Florence is all about art, history, and culture. Its artistic patrimony and incredible architecture have made it famous worldwide, and I believe it makes a great destination if you are traveling to Europe for the first time!
I was lucky enough to visit Florence with my class back in high school—the advantages of living by the Italian border—and honestly I’ve been dreaming of going back ever since!
Walk around the city and open your eyes! This is the best way to find its artistic and architectural treasures!
If all this doesn’t convince you, maybe knowing that Florence is the place to be for Italian high fashion and dining and wine experiences will do the trick!
Still not convinced? Take a look at the 5 most popular attractions and think about it!
- Uffizi Gallery
- Le Duomo (Florence’s Cathedral)
- Accademia Gallery
- Ponte Vecchio
- Palazzo Pitti
Keep reading for more tips!
- Book everything early: Florence is one of the most popular destinations in Europe, so the best accommodations and restaurants tend to be booked early.Same goes for attraction tickets! To avoid queues and ensure you can visit when you plan to, book your tickets online.
- Walk, walk, walk: As with most European cities, the best way to explore Florence is on foot! Don’t worry, the city is rather small, and by walking, you won’t miss any of its treasures!
- Eat and drink local: Florence is one of the best cities in Europe for food and wine pairing experiences! Don’t miss your chance when visiting the Tuscan capital!
- Be ready for the heat if you are visiting during summer: As in most Western European countries, summer can be really hot—up to 40°C! Either visit during the shoulder seasons or be prepared to sweat a little!
Istanbul, Turkey
Also known as the bridge between Europe and Asia, Istanbul is one of the must-see cities for your first time in Europe. A vibrant city where history, culture, and modernity are mixed, you are going to have a blast there!
Whether you are looking for architecture and history, colorful markets, or just to be fascinated, believe me, it is the place to go!
To help you plan your itinerary in Istanbul, here are 5 of the most popular tourist attractions:
- St. Sofia (Ayasofya)
- The Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque)
- Topkapi Palace
- The Grand Bazaar (Kapalıçarşı)
- The Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnıcı)
Now, let me give you a few tips for visiting Istanbul!
- Respect the cultural differences: When you are visiting mosques, respect their rules. Dress properly, covering your shoulders and legs, take off your shoes before entering, and if you are a woman, cover your head with a scarf.
- Don’t miss out on local cuisine: Whether it is kebabs, mezzes, or pastries, Turkish cuisine will make your belly happy. So don’t miss out and try everything!
- Walk around the different neighborhoods: Each neighborhood is unique and showcases a different atmosphere, so walk around and visit them all.
- Be ready to negotiate: If you are going to visit the bazaars—the markets—be ready to negotiate prices before buying anything. And don’t think it would be rude! That’s just how it is done in this country!
Madrid, Spain
Even if you’ve never been to Madrid, I believe you already know a bit about the Spanish capital. Like many Western European capitals, Madrid is the perfect blend of history, modernity, and vibrant nightlife. So if you are looking for some city sightseeing during the day followed by crazy nights out, this is one of the best places!
I’m personally more of a Barcelona gal, but I still loved my time in Madrid. Except for the crazy heat during summer—it went up to 43°C! So be careful with that…
Now, let’s talk about your Madrid itinerary and 5 attractions you can’t miss while visiting!
- The Royal Palace (Palacio Real)
- The Prado Museum (Museo del Prado)
- The Retiro Park (Parque del Retiro)
- The Sun Gate (Puerta del Sol)
- The Queen Sofia Museum (Museo Reina Sofia)
You might wonder how to make the most of your Madrid experience? Well, I have a few tips for you!
- Walk around and explore the different neighborhoods: Madrid, being a capital, has many different districts—each with its own vibe! Walk around and discover them all!
- Eat tapas: Tapas are a must when visiting Madrid or any city in Spain. Croquetas, pulpo al ajillo, patatas bravas, etc.—just order a few and share them with the people you are traveling with! That’s the real Spanish experience! Don’t forget to pair it with a glass of Spanish wine. You are in for a treat!
- Look for free museums: Some museums in Madrid offer free entry after certain hours or on certain days. So do your research before spending money you could have saved to eat more tapas.
- Be ready for hot summer days: As previously mentioned, it can get really hot in Madrid during summer, so if you can visit during the shoulder seasons!
Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark, will offer you a similar experience to Stockholm if you choose it as a destination for your trip to Europe. A blend of modernity, history, canals, colorful buildings, and a high quality of life, Copenhagen is the perfect place to chill and discover Scandinavian culture!
But… Just like Stockholm, you need to be aware that this exceptional quality of life comes with a cost. If you are traveling on a budget, it might not be the right place for you.
If you still decide to go though, here are the places you can’t miss:
- Tivoli Gardens
- The Little Mermaid (Den Lille Havfrue)
- Amalienborg Palace
- Nyhavn
- The National Museum (Nationalmuseet)
Now let me share a few tips with you to enjoy Copenhagen the best you can!
- Cycle around the city: Renting a bike to visit Copenhagen is the best idea you could have! The city is super bike-friendly, and it will be the best way for you to live like a local!
- Try Danish food: Danish food is not well-known around the world, but while you are there, give it a go! Their hot dogs are particularly famous!
- Visit attractions during weekdays: Some museums and attractions offer discounts if visiting during weekdays. Make the most of it and save some money—after all, every little bit helps!
Budapest, Hungary
Ah, Budapest! I love this city so much that I always go back. Is it the low cost of living, the locals, the beauty of the city, or the crazy nightlife? I don’t know, but if you are traveling to Europe for the first time, you should really consider visiting the capital of Hungary!
The city is also well-known for its thermal baths, which are perfect after a long day walking around the city or to cure a hangover after too many drinks on your night out!
Let me share with you my favorite tourist attractions to see while you are there!
- Buda Castle (Budavári Palota)
- The Hungarian Parliament (Országház)
- Széchenyi Thermal Baths (Széchenyi Fürdő)
- St. Stephen’s Basilica (Szent István Bazilika)
- The Chain Bridge (Széchenyi Lánchíd)
Now, to help you make the most of your trip to Budapest, take a look at these quick tips!
- Walk, walk, walk: The city is big but also small enough to be visited on foot. And that’s how you will make the most of your trip! Walk around and explore the smallest streets.
- Eat local: Hungarian cuisine is rich and warming. I am a fan of goulash, and the best I have eaten was in Budapest. Also, if you love paprika, you will love every dish there!
- Visit the thermal baths later in the afternoon: Thermal baths in Budapest are really popular, which means they are crowded with tourists. Visiting later in the day might help you avoid the crowds!
Lisbon, Portugal
Picturesque hills, colorful neighborhoods, a relaxed atmosphere, delicious food, and lovely locals—there are so many reasons to add Lisbon to your list of must-see European cities!
Whether you are looking for history, culture, food, or vibrant nightlife, you are going to love the Portuguese capital. And if you are traveling to Europe for the first time, it is one of the best destinations to visit!
To help you plan your trip, take a look at these 5 must-see attractions in Lisbon:
- Alfama District (The Old Town)
- Belém Tower (Torre de Belém)
- Jerónimos Monastery (Mosteiro dos Jerónimos)
- National Azulejo Museum (Museu Nacional do Azulejo)
- 25th of April Bridge (Ponte 25 de Abril)
Now, here are my travel tips to help you make the most of your Portuguese getaway!
- Bring comfy shoes: Lisbon is a hilly city, so you’ll be walking up and down hills a lot! Make sure to bring comfy shoes to help your feet endure your exploration days!
- Hop on the historic tram: Tram 28 is famous for its route through Lisbon’s historic districts. It’s a great way to explore the city without having to walk up the hills, and it’s especially perfect if you are traveling with toddlers or the elderly.
- Eat some pastéis de nata: I’m pretty sure you’ve already heard of pastéis de nata. They are a must-try when in Portugal. My advice? Sample them from different bakeries and find your favorite!
- Make the most of the viewpoints: As Lisbon is built on hills, there are many different viewpoints to visit. They will all give you a unique perspective of the city and the river!
- Head to the LX Factory: Whether you want to do some shopping, grab a bite to eat, or enjoy a night out, the LX Factory is the place to be!
Dubrovnik, Croatia
“The Pearl of the Adriatic”—believe me, there’s a reason why Dubrovnik has this nickname. The beauty of this city and its historic heritage will blow you away!
Fortified old town, narrow cobbled streets, delicious food, amazing viewpoints… There’s nothing not to like about Dubrovnik! And if you’re a Game of Thrones fan, you can even go on a special tour to see the places where the series was filmed!
Honestly, I can’t think of any reasons not to visit when traveling to Europe for the first time. But if you’re still not convinced, keep reading to find the best attractions to visit! You’ll be convinced after that, I promise!
- Dubrovnik Walls
- The Old Town (Stari Grad)
- Rector’s Palace (Knežev Dvor)
- Banje Beach
- Lokrum Island
And if you need more tips to visit Dubrovnik, don’t worry, I’ve got you covered!
- Explore early in the morning or later in the afternoon: Dubrovnik is very popular among tourists—and for good reason! To avoid the crowds and make the most of your time, visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
- Eat local: I spent three months in Croatia a few years ago, and believe me, they have the best food! If you like seafood, you’ll be in heaven.
- Book everything early: Whether you’re booking accommodations, trying to get a reservation at a specific restaurant, or buying tickets for top attractions, do it early! As I mentioned, Dubrovnik is a very touristy city, and you wouldn’t want to miss out because everything is sold out.
YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: MY CROATIA TRAVEL GUIDE!
Athens, Greece
Cradle of Western civilization, Athens is much more than a city to explore; it’s a real lesson in ancient history. With its ancient monuments, museums, and vibrant atmosphere, it’s the perfect destination if you’re traveling to Europe for the first time and want to learn more about ancient Greece.
And if you’re a foodie, you’re going to have a blast there—I’m dying for Greek food myself!
Now, take a look at the most important places to visit and start planning your itinerary!
- The Acropolis
- Ancient Agora
- National Archaeological Museum
- Plaka District
- Panathenaic Stadium (Kallimarmaro)
And, here are the most important travel tips for Athens:
- Visit the tourist sites early in the morning or later in the afternoon: To avoid the crowds and the heat of summer days, visit the major sites early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
- Walk around the different districts: Plaka, Monastiraki, and Psiri are the best districts to visit. They offer a lively atmosphere, markets, cafés, and boutiques—perfect places to discover local culture and enjoy delicious Greek cuisine.
- Eat everything: I couldn’t be more honest with this advice! Just eat everything you can, because Greek cuisine is among the best in Europe. Whether you’re into street food or more traditional meals, you’re going to have a blast!
Prague, Czech Republic
Magical city, Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, is known for its medieval architecture, lovely cobbled streets, and beautiful historic monuments.
Also known as “the city of a hundred spires”, Prague is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway with your other half. But don’t worry, if you’re traveling with friends or on your own, you’ll still have a blast there!
That’s what I did. I visited—almost 10 years ago—with a group of friends, and let me tell you, if partying is important to you when traveling, Prague is the place to be!
But for the daytime, there are a few tourist spots you can’t miss there when traveling to Europe for the first time.
- Prague Castle
- Charles Bridge
- The Old Town (Staré Město)
- The Doomed House
- The Jewish Quarter (Josefov)
Now, let’s dive into the most important travel tips to visit Prague and make the most of your trip!
- Explore the different neighborhoods: Other than the Jewish Quarter, the districts of Malá Strana and Vinohrady are worth visiting. With picturesque boutiques, local restaurants, and calm parks, they’re the best places to escape the bustle of the city for a while.
- Visit the “hospody” for the best culinary experience: Skip the fancy restaurants and tourist traps! If you want to try proper local cuisine, find a “hospody” (pub). That’s where you’ll find the best food and drinks—at much cheaper prices than in other places!
- Be aware of tourist scams: One thing that particularly surprised me in Prague is the amount of tourist scams. The most common is related to currency exchange. Never exchange your money on the street. Either go to a currency exchange office or withdraw money from an ATM.
Berlin, Germany
I believe that everyone is familiar with Berlin, historically speaking. The capital of Germany is now known for being a dynamic and multicultural city. Whether you’re looking for history or modernity when traveling to Europe for the first time, Berlin could be a great destination for you!
With historical monuments, world-renowned museums, a cutting-edge art scene, and a vibrant nightlife, there’s something for everyone in Berlin!
Here are some historical and political attractions that you must add to your itinerary when visiting Berlin:
- The Berlin Wall and its Memorial
- Brandenburg Gate
- The German Parliament (Reichstag)
- Museum Island
- The Holocaust Memorial
A few travel tips to help you make the most of your time in Berlin:
- Take a look at the Berlin WelcomeCard: This card offers discounts for public transportation and some tourist attractions! Check it out to see if it can help you save some money.
- Explore the different neighborhoods: Berlin is not only worth visiting for its historical monuments, but the various neighborhoods of the German capital are also worth exploring. Kreuzberg, Mitte, Prenzlauer Berg, Friedrichshain—all have unique atmospheres that you’ll love!
- Visit local markets: To soak in the local culture and find the best local and craft products, don’t miss out on the local markets. The most famous ones are Hackescher Markt and Mauerpark, so make sure to add them to your itinerary!
- Enjoy Berlin’s nightlife: Berlin is renowned worldwide for its vibrant partying and clubbing scene. If that’s something you enjoy, don’t miss out! From exclusive clubs to underground raves, there are parties for everyone.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
We all know why Amsterdam is originally famous for—puf puf—but believe me, there’s much more to the Dutch capital than that.
Lovely and dynamic, Amsterdam is one of the best destinations you could pick if you are traveling to Europe for the first time. With picturesque canals, museums, vibrant neighborhoods, cycling paths, and welcoming cafés, there’s no way you won’t enjoy your time there!
To help you make the most of what the city has to offer, check out these popular attractions in Amsterdam:
- The City Canals
- The Rijksmuseum
- Anne Frank House
- The Van Gogh Museum
- Jordaan District
Now, take a look at my travel tips and start planning your trip!
- Explore the city by bike: One thing that surprised me the most when I visited Amsterdam for the first time was the amount of bikes. They are literally everywhere! The entire city is designed to make life easier for cyclists. Don’t miss out on this experience!
- Explore local markets: Whether you want to visit the flower market or find local products, food, and crafts, Amsterdam’s markets are the best places to wander for a few hours!
- Visit the museums at midday: I found that museums are less crowded around lunchtime or early in the afternoon. I’m not sure why, but visiting during these times can save you a lot of time!
- Be aware of the climate: The weather in Amsterdam is quite strange… I visited in April, and it was colder than a winter in France. So, keep that in mind when packing. Rain and cold winds are possible!
- Don’t expect to be amazed by the local cuisine: While food tastes are subjective, the culinary specialties in Amsterdam may not be as remarkable as you’d expect. The food is tasty, but it won’t stand out…
Barcelona, Spain
By far my favorite “big” city in Spain, Barcelona is beautiful, lively, interesting, and simply delightful to be in. There is not one thing not to love about Barcelona. If you are traveling to Europe for the first time, you are going to adore it!
Barcelona is mostly famous for the architect Gaudi, who designed many buildings there, the sunny days on the beach, and the vibrant nightlife. And if you are a foodie, that’s one more reason to visit—and splurge on tapas!
Here are the most famous attractions that you should add to your Barcelona itinerary ASAP!
- La Sagrada Familia
- Park Güell
- La Rambla
- The Gothic Quarter
- The Picasso Museum
Now, let’s dive into a few travel tips you might want to know when you visit!
- Be aware of the pickpockets: Unfortunately, Europe—especially Western Europe—is famously known for pickpockets, particularly when you are visiting tourist spots or using public transportation.
- Don’t miss out on tapas: Tapas in Spain is more than just food; it is a lifestyle! You’ll be amazed to see everyone going to the bar after work to share tapas and a glass of wine with their friends.
- Go to the beach: The beach in Barcelona—La Barceloneta—might not be the most beautiful or clean, but believe me, after a long day of walking around, jumping into the cold water and resting for a while will be more than welcome.
- Visit the Sagrada Familia: To visit the Sagrada Familia, you have to buy a ticket, unless… you visit on Sunday morning during the mass. Think about it!
Rome, Italy
Another Italian city that I have been lucky to visit with school and now die to visit again… Rome, the Italian capital, where ancient history meets modern city life.
Whether you are looking for historical monuments or busy and lively city life, Rome will have something to offer you… And that’s why you should really consider it if you are traveling to Europe for the first time.
Oh, and I’m not even talking about Italian food… Pizza, pasta, gelato, spritz, and so much more to discover. Believe me, you will have a blast there – and your tummy will too!
Now that your mouth is watering, take a look at the most popular tourist attractions to visit and start dreaming!
- The Colosseum
- The Vatican and St. Peter’s Basilica
- The Roman Forum
- The Pantheon
- The Trevi Fountain
Need more tips to travel to Rome? Keep reading!
- Buy your tickets online beforehand: Rome is an extremely popular destination in Europe, and the queues to the most famous attractions can feel never-ending. Avoid the stress of losing time and not seeing everything you want to see by booking your tickets beforehand!
- Walk, walk, walk: Rome is not that big, and you will probably save time by walking between attractions rather than using public transportation or taxis.
- Eat everything you can: Forget the diet or the way you look and enjoy the Italian food.
- Wake up early: Seeing the city waking up is one of my favorite things ever – doesn’t matter which city… But in Rome, it is even better. So wake up early at least once during your trip and enjoy the calmest and quietest version of the Italian capital!
London, England
Probably my favorite city in the entire world… Maybe I am biased as I’ve been living there for a few years, but honestly, there is nothing like it. London, the capital of the United Kingdom, is the perfect blend of history, architecture, modernity, night outs, delicious restaurants, and so on. You are going to love visiting it when you are finally traveling to Europe for the first time!
Don’t think about it twice… Visit London!
And if you need more convincing, keep reading! Here are the best things to see while you are there:
- The Tower of London
- Buckingham Palace
- Covent Garden
- Big Ben and the London Eye
- Camden Town
And now a few tips to make the most of your time there!
- Use the contactless of your card to pay for the tube: Don’t ask me why, but buying paper tickets will be more expensive… And getting on the tube is as easy as tapping your credit card before entering.
- Explore all different neighborhoods: Each district of London is different from the other, and they all have something incredible to offer, so don’t miss out.
- Make the most of the free attractions: London is an expensive place to travel to… Be smart and prioritize free attractions to save some money!
- Be aware of the climate: You probably already know that but… London is a really rainy city. It might seem like a cliché, but after living there, I can assure you it’s true. It rains almost every day!
- Try ciders: Ciders are as popular in England as beer is in Belgium. They have a ton of different kinds and are the best way to relax after a long day of walking around!
Paris, France
Last but not least on this list of cities to consider when traveling to Europe for the first time… The city of lights, love, fashion, and fine gastronomy: Paris!
There is so much to say about Paris, but I believe you already know a lot about it…
Let me convince you – if you still need convincing – with the most popular attractions to visit there and a few tips to make the most of your trip to the French capital!
- The Eiffel Tower
- The Louvre Museum
- Notre Dame Cathedral
- The Orsay Museum
- The Champs-Elysées and the Arc de Triomphe
Now onto my favorite tips for visiting Paris!
- Use the metro: Public transportation is great in Paris, but using the metro instead of buses will save you a lot of time. Paris is a busy city where there are always traffic jams. And if you can, walk! That’s the best way to discover the city.
- Visit cafés and markets: There is nothing more French than going to the farmers market, then stopping on your way back to have a coffee and a croissant sitting at a terrace… I know it seems cliché, but we – yes, I’m a Frenchie too – really do that!
- Don’t miss out on the different neighborhoods: Paris is not just the famous monuments and the Seine River… If you want to really discover the French culture, wander around the different districts and let the wind guide you!
- Try the “weird” food: French food is delicious – yes, I know, I’m biased – even the “weird” things we eat. Smelly cheese, snails, frog legs… Don’t be shy and try them, what bad could happen?
YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: ROUGH GUIDE TO PARIS!
Looking for more resources to plan your trip to Europe? Nobody could guide you as well as Rick Steves. The number one expert on European travel… So make sure you check out his website!