10 Top Travel Tips for Europe, According to Tour Guides

Europe is the most visited continent in the world, welcoming 793 million tourists in 2025, according to the UN World Tourism Organization. Yet, the number of travel faux pas tourists make while strolling the streets of Milan, meandering through ancient ruins in Athens, or cruising around the Mediterranean remains pretty high, considering the increase in visits to Europe’s major cities. 

This is true for tour guides, who witness the majority of these mistakes firsthand on the ground.  

From disrespecting local customs and getting pickpocketed to forgetting to reapply sunscreen and overpacking, European tour guides have truly seen it all. Below, two tour operators share the most common mistakes they see tourists make in Europe—and the solutions they recommend to become a better traveler, solutions that are easier and more affordable than you might think.

Tour Guide-approved Europe Travel Essentials

Mistake: Packing hard-to-walk-in shoes

Solution: Pack flat, comfortable shoes

“In Rome (and most historic European cities), cobblestones and uneven streets make high heels a dangerous game,” Kenny Dunn, CEO and Founder of Eating Europe, told Travel + Leisure—and yet, so many tourists take their chances. While “style is everything” in Italy, he quipped, you’d be better off packing and wearing flat shoes like Skechers Go Walk Slip-in Shoes to “avoid a very unfashionable fall” that could potentially ruin your trip. Further, don’t forget to break them in before the trip to avoid any uncomfortable blisters that may appear with new shoes.

Mistake: Not having cash to tip

Solution: Always keep a few euros on hand

We live in such a digital, on-demand world that today, everyone assumes they can add a tip on a credit card. “One of the biggest surprises for Americans is that in much of Europe, there’s no line to add a tip on the card slip,” Dunn shared. That’s because tipping isn’t in their culture, but Americans still might wish to add gratuity for excellent service. “The solution is keeping some euro coins handy for tipping, like locals do,” he explained. A coin pouch with a key ring is an easy fix to ensure you always have some change accessible. Pro tip: If you forget to pack or purchase a coin purse ahead of your travels, many souvenir shops sell them for only a couple of Euros. 

Mistake: Not packing enough medication

Solution: Bring extra doses and have a plan in place for emergencies

If you’re on any kind of medication, it’s so important to bring a sufficient amount of doses for the duration of the trip. In fact, Stavros Makris, co-founder of Bearing True South based in Athens, Greece, says you should pack extra doses in case of flight delays or cancellations that prolong your trip. To keep them organized, purchase a simple pill case or two and keep the second one as your “just in case” stash. Further, “Make sure to learn the local name of the medication(s) you’re taking, since most drugs have different names in Europe, and if possible, have your doctor’s prescription with you,” Makris advised. And most importantly, don’t forget to inform your guide of any allergies or health conditions they should know to streamline the process in case of emergency. 

Mistake: Overpacking

Solution: Pack lightly and efficiently

One mistake Makris always sees is travelers who don’t know how to pack efficiently. “There’s a science to packing,” he says. This includes packing on the lighter side when it comes to clothing, as most destinations in Europe have an incredible selection of apparel that you can buy on the ground (if you feel you even need it). Packing cubes help organize your suitcase and your outfits. Try filling them according to day versus night outfits or first half of the trip versus second half of the trip. It helps you plan and, in turn, realize what you really need. 

Mistake: Forgetting to reapply sunscreen

Solution: Bring a small sunscreen in your day bag

“A lot of people forget to reapply sunblock during their European trips, leading to heat exhaustion, dehydration, and occasionally a visit to the emergency room,” Makris warned. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen (single-use packs or a sunscreen stick can be handy for throwing in a bag or pocket) and apply it throughout the day.

Mistake: Getting dehydrated

Solution: Keep water with you at all times

When it comes to fighting heat exhaustion, staying hydrated is as important as applying sunscreen. “Pack a reusable water bottle, as tap water is drinkable in most places in Europe,” Makris advised. If you know you’re susceptible to overheating, you should also pack some hydration packs to add to your water bottle on longer tour days. 

Mistake: Not being vigilant with your belongings

Solution: Keep your items close and protected

The amount of local scams and pickpockets in many European cities is a constant issue for travelers. “Learn how to be comfortable standing your ground and saying ‘NO,’ secure your personal belongings, and avoid overcrowded train carriages,” Makris instructed. The best way to secure your personal belongings is by keeping them close in a crossbody bag rather than in your pockets or in a backpack, where they’re not in your line of vision. 

Mistake: Not knowing any of the language

Solution: Write down key phrases you’ll need in the local language

It’s so easy to inadvertently disrespect local customs and culture when you are used to a different way of life. A little research goes a long way, Makris said: “Learn the local customs and follow the rules, even if they don’t make much sense, and you’ll feel accepted, valued, and welcomed.” On that note, keep a small notebook with some key phrases to help you get by and encourage more authentic interactions with the locals. While you can also keep key phrases on your phone, technology can be misconstrued and act as a barrier, so it’s better to have the paper in front of you. Again, a simple ciao or merci goes a long way with the locals. 

Mistake: Not preparing for eating dinner later than usual

Solution: Keep snacks with you

Many U.S. travelers are accustomed to eating dinner early, but in Italy, Spain, and Portugal, locals eat later. “In fact, often, restaurants that only cater to locals open at 7 or even 8 p.m.,” Dunn said. For this reason, he suggests packing a snack to help fight any hunger pains in between meals. Whether it’s a healthy nibble like a protein bar or beef jerky, or a local treat like an afternoon gelato in Italy, this will help visitors adjust to their new meal schedule.

Mistake: Losing energy in the middle of the day

Solution: Stay caffeinated and hydrated

Many Americans are shocked by the size of espresso in Europe. “Visitors order a coffee expecting a tall mug and instead stare at the tiny cup of espresso like it’s a joke,” Dunn said. To get both a cultural experience and sate your caffeine habits, order the espresso, and enjoy the quick, concentrated shot, then pack an electrolyte tablet infused with caffeine in your day bag to help you keep feeling energized while on the go. 

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