PLANNING • 20 min read
First Trip to Europe: Essential Tips & Complete Guide
February 2026 20 min read Viajesline Team
Your first trip to Europe is a milestone! With centuries of history, diverse cultures, and incredible landscapes, it can be overwhelming to plan. This guide will help you prepare for an unforgettable experience.
Essential Preparation
Documentation
- Valid passport (6+ months validity)
- ETIAS authorization (from 2025)
- Travel insurance (mandatory for Schengen)
- Hotel reservations printout
- Return flight ticket
Money
- Notify your bank of travel dates
- Carry multiple payment methods
- Some cash in euros (ATMs available)
- No-foreign-fee credit card recommended
- Budget €100-150/day per person
Packing
- Comfortable walking shoes (essential!)
- Layers for changing weather
- Universal power adapter (Type C/F)
- Portable charger
- Day backpack
Safety
- Copy important documents
- Share itinerary with family
- Register with your embassy
- Download offline maps
- Keep valuables secure
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Over-packing
💡 Pack half of what you think. You can always buy things.
Trying to see too much
💡 Quality over quantity. 3 cities in 10 days is plenty.
Not booking in advance
💡 Popular attractions sell out. Book Eiffel Tower, Vatican weeks ahead.
Eating near tourist sites
💡 Walk 2-3 blocks away for better food at half the price.
Ignoring jet lag
💡 Arrive a day early. First day should be relaxed exploration.
Not learning basic phrases
💡 Hello, please, thank you in local language goes a long way.
🌟 Recommended First Trip Itinerary (10 Days)
Days 1-3Paris - Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Montmartre
Day 4Train to Amsterdam (3h)
Days 5-6Amsterdam - Canals, Van Gogh, Anne Frank
Day 7Train to Brussels + Day trip (2h)
Days 8-10Back to Paris - Versailles, Shopping, Departure
Make Your First Trip Stress-Free
Our organized tours handle all the logistics so you can focus on enjoying your first European adventure.
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