Whether it's sipping Aperol Spritz in Rome, people-watching in Parisian cafes, or beach hopping in the Greek islands, a summer holiday in Europe sounds like the ultimate dream. But with the dream comes reality — crowds, scorching heat, and queues that stretch longer than your patience. Airports are jam-packed, popular sights book out weeks in advance, and even finding a decent table for dinner can feel like a mission. The good news? A little planning can save you a lot of stress. Here's your go-to guide for a smooth, sun-soaked European summer holiday — packed with practical tips, seasoned advice, and a dose of travel-savvy smarts.
Here Are 13 Travel Tips For Your Next European Summer Holiday:
1. Embrace The Siesta Mentality
First of, accept that Europe loves its leisure time. It's not just Spain that slows down in the afternoon heat. Many shops and cafes in Southern Europe shut from around 1-4pm. Don't panic — it's normal. Use that time to recharge in your hotel or chill with a gelato in the shade. Then head back out when the locals do, usually around 5 or 6pm, when the cities come back to life.
Also Read: 10 Best City Breaks In Europe For 2025: Where To Eat, Stay, And Play Next
2. Get Your Travel Documents In Order
Post-Brexit, UK passport holders can only stay in the Schengen Area for 90 days within any 180-day period. Your passport also needs to be less than 10 years old and have at least three months' validity left from your planned return date. Double-check visa requirements too if you're heading outside the Schengen zone, like to Croatia or Bulgaria.
3. Book Trains And Flights Early
Book your tickets early. Photo: iStock
It's no secret: summer is peak season in Europe. And while spontaneous travel has its charm, it's not your friend during July and August. European train tickets — especially high-speed ones like Italy's Frecciarossa or France's TGV — can sell out weeks in advance and get pricier the longer you wait. Budget airlines like Ryanair and EasyJet also hike up prices fast. Try booking at least 2-3 months out for the best fares.
4. Stay Hydrated
Europe has some of the safest tap water in the world. Cities like Rome, Zurich, and Vienna offer free public fountains — some dating back centuries — that still flow with fresh, drinkable water. Bring a reusable water bottle with you, save money, and cut down on plastic waste.
5. Time Your City Visits Carefully
Paris in mid-August? You might find more tourists than locals. Italians, Spaniards, and the French often head out of the cities and close up shop for their own holidays. This can mean fewer crowds in big cities, but also more limited restaurant and shop options. The best compromise? Late June or early September-still sunny, but with fewer crowds.
6. Use Local Transport Like A Pro
Cycle your way around a city like Amsterdam. Photo: iStock
Skip the Ubers and pricey taxis. Public transport in Europe is clean, safe, and well-connected. Grab a travel card in cities like London, Berlin or Lisbon, or download transport apps like Citymapper and Moovit for real-time updates. Don't forget to validate your train or tram ticket before boarding in places like Italy and Germany. Or you can rent up a bicycle and explore the city like a local. Bliss!
7. Be Wary Of Tourist Traps
Avoid restaurants with menus in ten languages and flashing photos of paella. A good rule of thumb: Walk a few streets away from major landmarks to find more authentic (and affordable) food. Also, always check Google or TripAdvisor reviews before booking anything major — from guided tours to boat rentals.
8. Learn A Few Key Phrases
Even if you butcher the pronunciation, locals appreciate the effort. Knowing how to say "please," "thank you," and "excuse me" in the local language goes a long way. It's respectful, and in some countries (hello, France), it can actually make a difference in the service you receive.
9. Pack Light, Pack Smart
Travel light. Photo: iStock
You won't enjoy dragging a massive suitcase over cobblestone streets in 30 degrees Celsius heat — promise. Go for a compact, carry-on-sized suitcase or a good travel backpack. Stick to breathable fabrics (linen, cotton), neutral colours, and layers. Most places have laundry facilities, and you'll thank yourself every time you walk up a flight of stairs in a centuries-old building with no lift.
10. Watch Out For Pickpockets
Major tourist hubs like Barcelona, Rome and Paris are known for skilled pickpockets — especially in crowded metro stations and around landmarks. Keep your bag zipped, wear a crossbody, and never put your phone or wallet in your back pocket. A cheap money belt or anti-theft bag is a smart shout.
11. Ditch The Foreign Transaction Fees
Many UK banks charge for every purchase or ATM withdrawal overseas. Save money with a travel-friendly card like Monzo, Starling or Revolut. They offer fee-free spending and real exchange rates, plus handy budgeting tools.
Also Read: 8 Unique Bucket-List Trips In Europe You've Probably Never Thought Of
12. Make Restaurant Reservations
In popular destinations like Florence, Santorini or Dubrovnik, the best spots get booked solid weeks in advance — especially for dinner with a view. Booking ahead not only guarantees you a table but also saves you from wandering around hangry at 9pm.
13. Don't Try To See It All
Yes, you could technically do 7 countries in 14 days, but should you? Europe is best savoured, not rushed. Pick fewer destinations and stay longer — you'll soak up more culture, find hidden gems, and won't feel like you're constantly packing and unpacking.
