European Travel Guide
Itineraries, Guides & More
Got Europe on your mind? I’m with you – the thought of sipping café au lait in Paris one day and hunting down the best pasta in Rome the next is pretty irresistible.
But let’s be real, planning this Euro trip can be a bit of a puzzle. Don’t sweat it, though.
I’ve done the legwork, sifted through the options, and laid out the best of Europe just for you.
And with a handy network of trains, buses, and planes at our disposal, hopping from one fairy-tale city to another is as easy as pie.
So, are you ready to turn those daydreams into an itinerary? Keep on reading, and let’s get this European adventure started!
Europe by Region
Northern Europe
I was blown away by the beauty of Northern Europe.
Most famously known for the Norweigan fjords and Northern Lights the countries in Northern Europe are a haven for outdoor lovers!
Countries in Northern Europe:
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- Iceland
- Latvia
- Lithuania
- Norway
- Sweden
Southern Europe
Southern Europe is celebrated for its rich history, a treasure trove of historical sites and architectural wonders.
The region is also famous for its beautiful coastlines, warm climate, and a relaxed lifestyle that prioritizes leisure and family.
Countries in Southern Europe:
Eastern Europe
Eastern Europe is known for its diverse cultural heritage, with a mix of Slavic, Baltic, and other influences reflected in its architecture, traditions, and languages.
The region offers an array of historical landmarks, from medieval towns to Soviet-era monuments, and is often admired for its scenic beauty, from the Carpathian Mountains to the Black Sea coast.
Countries in Northern Europe:
- Belarus
- Bulgaria
- Czech Republic
- Hungary
- Moldova
- Poland
- Romania
- Slovakia
- Ukraine
Western Europe
Western Europe is recognized for its influential art, fashion, and intellectual history, with countries like France, Germany, and Belgium being key players on the global cultural scene.
The region is also known for its well-preserved medieval cities, modern metropolises, and a strong focus on political and economic union, exemplified by institutions like the European Union.
Countries in Western Europe:
- Austria
- Belgium
- England
- France
- Germany
- Ireland
- Liechtenstein
- Luxembourg
- Monaco
- Netherlands
- Northern Ireland
- Switzerland
Who Needs A Visa For Europe?
The visa requirements for Europe depend on the nationality of the traveler and the specific European country or countries they plan to visit.
Europe is divided into several zones with different visa policies, the most notable being the Schengen Area, which includes many, but not all, European Union countries as well as a few non-EU countries.
- Schengen Area: For the Schengen Area, which includes countries like France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and many others, travelers from many countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and Japan, do not need a visa for short stays (up to 90 days in a 180-day period for tourism, business, or family visits). However, travelers from other countries may require a Schengen visa.
- European Union (Non-Schengen): EU countries not in the Schengen Area, like Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, and Romania, have their own visa policies. Travelers should check the specific requirements for each country.
- United Kingdom: Post-Brexit, the UK has its own visa policy separate from the Schengen Area and the EU. For example, US citizens can visit the UK for up to six months without a visa for tourism and most business activities.
- Ireland: Ireland is not part of the Schengen Area and has its own visa policy. U.S. citizens, for instance, can visit Ireland without a visa for up to three months.
- Other European Countries: Countries in Europe but not in the EU, like Russia, Ukraine, and Turkey, have their own distinct visa policies.
It’s important to note that visa requirements can change, and the introduction of the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) is expected in the near future for visa-exempt nationals. ETIAS will require travelers from visa-exempt countries to obtain travel authorization before entering the Schengen Area.
As a travel blogger, I make sure I am updated with the latest travel and visa information to provide to all my readers.
Best of Europe Posts
14 Best Places in Europe to Travel Alone As a Woman
Are you pondering a solo European trip and wondering which place is best for a woman? As a single female who has traveled to almost every European country alone, I know a thing or two about where to go! I am a massive advocate for solo traveling and have traveled alone to over 50 European…
12 Best Hidden Gems of Europe & How To Get There
It’s time to curate your bucket list with hidden gems of Europe! While I acknowledge the allure of famed destinations like Rome, London, and Paris, they don’t quite qualify as ‘hidden.’ These tucked-away European treasures offer a more intriguing visit than their renowned counterparts. I believe there are compelling reasons to prioritize these under-the-radar locales…
Austria Travel Guides
All the best planning resources & guides for Austria!
Bosnia & Herzegovina Travel Guides
Explore top-tier travel tips and comprehensive guides for Bosnia & Herzegovina.
Croatia Travel Guides
Discover essential planning tools and destination insights for Croatia.
Denmark Travel Guides
Access the ultimate collection of resources and travel guides for Denmark.
England Travel Guides
Find expert travel advice and detailed guides for your journey in England.
France Travel Guides
Uncover the finest planning resources and cultural guides for France.
Germany Travel Guides
Your go-to source for all travel planning needs and guides in Germany.
Greece Travel Guides
Dive into rich planning resources and in-depth guides for Greece. Greece, the cradle of Western civilization, is dotted with landmarks steeped in ancient history and myth. The Acropolis in Athens, a symbol of classical spirit and democracy, dominates the skyline with its iconic Parthenon, a temple dedicated to the goddess Athena.
Nearby, the ancient Agora, once the heart of Athenian public life, and the Theatre of Dionysus, where drama flourished, offer glimpses into the cultural life of ancient Greece.
Delphi, the site of the famous Oracle, nestles on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, and is revered as a center for worship and important ancient games.
The stunning Meteora Monasteries, perched atop towering rock formations, blend natural beauty with spiritual significance.
In the Peloponnese, the ancient city of Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games, showcases ruins that echo the feats of ancient athletes.
And on Crete, the Palace of Knossos, associated with the legend of the Minotaur and the labyrinth, stands as a testament to the sophisticated Minoan civilization.
Each of these magnificent sites tells a story of Greece’s rich history, mythology, and enduring influence on the world.
Ireland Travel Guides
Get the best travel planning tools and Ireland-specific guides.
Italy Travel Guides
Explore Italy’s wonders with our comprehensive travel resources and guides. Italy, a country rich in history and culture, is home to some of the world’s most famous landmarks.
The Colosseum in Rome, an enduring symbol of the ancient Roman Empire, is known for its grand architecture and historical significance in hosting gladiatorial contests.
The Leaning Tower of Pisa, with its distinctive tilt, offers a unique architectural marvel and is a testament to medieval engineering. In Venice, the network of beautiful canals, including the Grand Canal, forms the city’s core, providing a picturesque and unique mode of transport through its historic landscapes.
Florence’s Cathedral, known as Duomo di Firenze, is a masterpiece of Italian Gothic architecture, celebrated for its magnificent dome designed by Brunelleschi and its stunning marble façade.
The ancient city of Pompeii presents a haunting yet fascinating view into the past, preserved under volcanic ash from the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD.
Lastly, the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City, adorned with Michelangelo’s breathtaking frescoes, stands as a pinnacle of Renaissance art. Each of these iconic sites showcases the rich tapestry of Italy’s history, culture, and artistic achievements.
Malta Travel Guides
Access all-encompassing travel guides and planning resources for Malta.
Netherlands Travel Guides
Discover the Netherlands through our detailed travel guides and resources.
Northern Ireland Travel Guides
Find premier travel tips and guides tailored for Northern Ireland.
Portugal Travel Guides
Your ultimate resource for travel planning and guides in Portugal.
Romania Travel Guides
Explore Romania with our extensive travel resources and guides.
Slovenia Travel Guides
Get the essential travel guides and resources for an unforgettable Slovenia trip.
Spain Travel Guides
Dive into the best planning tools and comprehensive guides for Spain.
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Best Booking Resources For Europe
When it comes to finding the best booking resources, you can trust recommendations from A Solo Woman Traveling. I have been traveling the world and planning my own trips since 2009! Here is a list of the best travel planning sites that I’ve worked with over the years.
- Skyscanner– I appreciate the user-friendliness of Skyscanner, and it’s an excellent platform for discovering the most outstanding deals available.
- Booking.com – Time and time again you can count on Booking.com to have the best deals. I often compare with other sites and they win for the best deals every time.
- Get Your Guide– For European travel, there is no better tour organizer than Get Your Guide! I have booked a tour with them on almost every trip I have taken!
- Discover Cars – My go-to for car rentals in Europe is always working with Discover Cars. They provide excellent customer service and the best rates period. I dare you to try and find a better deal.
- Trusted Housesitters – If you’re an animal lover seeking to cut costs on your travel accommodations, here’s an exciting tip. Trusted Housesitters is a service that allows you to house sit, and in return for taking care of pets, you can stay there at no cost!
- Safety Wing – Whenever I travel internationally, I never skip getting travel insurance. It’s a reassurance that’s essential for me. Quickly get a quote, and you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the comprehensive coverage offered.
Quiz Time
European City Finder
Not sure which European City is the best for you? Find out what city you might enjoy the best with this 10-question quiz!