EUROPE

THE BASICS

Europe is home to over forty countries, hundreds of centuries-old cities, and a breadth of history just waiting to be explored. Like many Americans, my first international trip was to Europe on a class trip in high school. Since then, I spent a semester studying in Budapest exploring dozens of cities and I can’t wait to share with you my tips & tricks for the beautiful and romantic continent across the pond.

When to go

Thankfully, depending on where you want to go and what you want to do, Europe is amazing any time of year. Below I try to break it down a bit by region:

Western Europe: I’m a fan of Summer or the warmer months. While winter is also beautiful here for skiing and winter sports, these countries aren’t as well-known for their winter festivities as some of the other regions we discuss below.
Central Europe: If you’re a ski bum or want to frolic through the holiday markets and live out your Hallmark movie dreams, I’d head here during the winter months.
Eastern Europe: Fall or Spring. Eastern Europe can get too cold during the winter months to really experience all of the sites, and I’d prioritize other regions for Summer, so let’s save Spring and Fall for Eastern Europe.
Southern Europe: Summer. Just imagine Summer along the Mediterranean and you’ll understand this one

What to do

Christmas Markets: Every year across central and eastern Europe, Christmas Markets pop up around the holiday season and are the perfect spot for you to get in the holiday spirit.
Walking Tours: The best advice I can give about going to any city in Europe is to take advantage of the (mostly) free walking tours offered. They’ll take you to all of the must-see spots in just a few short hours and you’ll check off most of the items on your to-see list before your first day is even up.
Travel by Train: Traveling by train is the best way to get around Europe. You’ll experience the most authentic form of travel to the area and get to see some of the gorgeous landscape you wouldn’t see flying from city to city.