Europe Travel Guide
40+ Countries & Countless Memories
I’ve traveled to more than 40 countries in Europe. When I say that out loud, I surprise myself. My journeys weren’t always glamorous; in fact, I discovered most of the continent through bus windows.
For years, I was paralyzed by my fear of flying, but my desire to explore was stronger. I started from Croatia and reached the most remote corners by bus, from the Baltics in the north to Portugal in the west and Istanbul in the east.
Eventually, I realized that fear makes no sense and that life should be lived. I got on a plane and never looked back. Today, with countless flights behind me, including intercontinental ones, I can share the story of Europe from two perspectives: from the road and from the sky.
This article isn’t your typical tourist guide. It’s a collection of my experiences and research, intended for anyone who wants to explore Europe, whether they’re traveling on a limited budget, battling fears, or simply looking for inspiration for their next adventure. Having explored Croatia’s hidden gems, I understand the magic that awaits throughout this diverse continent.
My Bus Adventure: Europe on Wheels
I remember those long nights driving through Germany, Poland, all the way to Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia. Bus travel has a special charm. You watch the landscape change, cities give way to villages, and plains transform into mountains.
It’s a slower but deeper way of traveling. From Croatia, I reached Finland, Sweden, Norway, and Denmark by bus. I also went south to Greece and even to Istanbul.
The journey to Portugal was a marathon in itself, but every sleepless night paid off with the view of the Atlantic Ocean. Bus travel across Europe today is easier than ever, thanks to networks like FlixBus that connect almost every major city.
Although journeys are long, prices are often significantly lower than airfares, opening doors for those with smaller budgets.
The View is Best from Above
There came a point when I realized that my fear of flying was limiting me. I had missed too many opportunities. The decision was made – I would get on that plane.
I remember that first flight, gripping the armrest and the feeling of relief when the wheels touched the runway. I realized that statistics were on my side and that it was irrational to fear something safer than driving a car.
Since then, flying has become my passion. It opened up the world in a completely new way, allowing me to reach destinations faster and farther. Intercontinental flights became routine.
The message is clear: don’t let fears hold you back.
When to Visit Europe?
Europe is open year-round, but the experience changes dramatically depending on the season. Trip planning largely depends on what you want to see and experience.
| Season | Period | Weather | Crowds | Prices | Best for... |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peak Season | May – September | Sunny and warm | Highest | Highest | Scandinavia, Ireland, Great Britain, and outdoor festivals |
| Shoulder Season | April and October | Pleasant and mild | Moderate | Medium | Most of Europe, especially the Mediterranean, to avoid heat and crowds |
| Off Season | November – March | Cold and short days | Minimal | Lowest | Major cities, museums, Christmas markets, and skiing |
Peak season offers the best weather and long days but comes with the price of high temperatures, crowds, and expensive accommodations. Shoulder season (spring and autumn) is often the best compromise – weather is pleasant, crowds are smaller, and prices more affordable.
Off season is ideal for those who want to avoid tourists and save money, provided they don’t mind cooler weather and shorter days. This is when cities like Vienna and Prague come alive in full cultural splendor, with operas and concerts.
Most Popular Destinations: Where Everyone Goes
According to World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) data for 2023, some countries simply attract more visitors than others. Here’s the list of most visited:
1.France (100 million visitors): Paris, with its Eiffel Tower and Louvre, is always a magnet, but there’s also the French Riviera, Loire castles, and charming Provence villages.
2.Spain (85.1 million visitors): From Gaudí’s Barcelona to Andalusian beaches and Madrid’s rich history, Spain offers incredible diversity.
3.Italy (57.3 million visitors): The Colosseum in Rome, Venice’s canals, Florence’s art, and the Amalfi Coast are just a fraction of what Italy offers.
4.Turkey (55.1 million visitors): The blend of East and West in Istanbul, surreal landscapes of Cappadocia, and turquoise beaches of Antalya.
5.United Kingdom (37.2 million visitors): London is a world unto itself, but don’t forget the Scottish Highlands, historic Edinburgh, and picturesque Cornwall.
European Gems: What You Must Not Miss
Europe is a treasure trove of historical and cultural landmarks. Some of them you simply must see at least once in your lifetime:
Eiffel Tower (Paris, France) stands as the symbol of Paris and probably the most famous European landmark. The Colosseum (Rome, Italy) is an ancient amphitheater that testifies to the power of the Roman Empire.
The Acropolis (Athens, Greece) represents the heart of ancient Greece, with the Parthenon dominating the city. Brandenburg Gate (Berlin, Germany) symbolizes the reunification of Germany and Europe.
Sagrada Familia (Barcelona, Spain) is Gaudí’s unfinished masterpiece that takes your breath away. Stonehenge (England, UK) is a mysterious prehistoric monument whose purpose still intrigues us today.
Charles Bridge (Prague, Czech Republic) is a medieval bridge offering an unforgettable view of Prague Castle.
Travel for Every Budget: Europe’s Most Expensive and Cheapest Corners
Europe can be both incredibly expensive and surprisingly affordable. The key is choosing your destination wisely.
Most Expensive Destinations
If you have deep pockets, these are the places for you. Swiss cities like Basel, Zurich, and Geneva regularly top the lists of most expensive destinations. They’re followed by Monaco and Nordic capitals like Oslo, Copenhagen, and Reykjavik.
Here, high prices for food, drinks, and activities are standard. A simple meal can easily cost €25-30, and accommodation prices can reach astronomical levels.
Cheapest Destinations
For budget travelers, Eastern Europe and the Balkans are a real discovery. North Macedonia and Serbia offer incredible value for money, with daily budgets of around €30. They’re followed by Bosnia and Herzegovina, Albania (with its beautiful and still affordable coast), and Montenegro.
In these countries, you can enjoy rich history, delicious food, and beautiful nature without fear of bankruptcy. A hearty meal costs €5-10, and you can find comfortable accommodation for €15-25 per night.
The Reality of Budget Travel
During my bus travels, I learned that budget doesn’t mean compromise on experience. Some of my most memorable moments happened in the cheapest destinations.
A €5 meal in a Serbian kafana, watching the sunset over Albanian beaches without crowds, or exploring medieval towns in North Macedonia – these experiences often surpass expensive tourist traps. The cheapest European countries typically offer daily budgets between €30-45, including meals, local transport, and attractions.
Compare this to Switzerland, where a simple meal can cost €25-30, and you’ll understand why Eastern Europe has become a favorite among savvy travelers.
Transportation: From Buses to Budget Airlines
My journey from bus-dependent to flight-embracing traveler taught me valuable lessons about European transportation. Bus networks like FlixBus now connect virtually every European city, with routes spanning from Portugal to Estonia.
While journeys are longer, they offer unique advantages: you see the countryside, meet locals, and travel sustainably. However, budget airlines have revolutionized European travel.
Once I overcame my flying fears, I discovered that flights between European cities often cost less than long bus journeys and save precious vacation time. The key is booking in advance and being flexible with dates.
Seasonal Strategies That Actually Work
After traveling Europe in every season, I’ve learned that timing can make or break your experience. Summer in Scandinavia is magical but brief – essentially mid-June to late August. Missing this window means closed attractions and harsh weather.
Mediterranean Europe, however, shines in shoulder seasons. April-May and September-October offer warm weather without the crushing crowds and heat of July-August. I’ve walked through Rome in October with comfortable temperatures and manageable tourist numbers – a stark contrast to the sweltering, overcrowded summer months.
Winter in Europe reveals a different character entirely. Christmas markets in Germany, opera season in Vienna, and Northern Lights in Scandinavia make cold weather worthwhile. Plus, accommodation prices drop significantly, and you’ll have major attractions largely to yourself.
Conclusion
Europe is a continent of contrasts – from the snowy peaks of the Alps to the sunny beaches of Greece, from bustling metropolises to quiet villages. My journey, which began in fear and on bus wheels, and continued with freedom in the sky, taught me that the most important thing is simply to start.
Whether you have a week or a month, €50 or €5000, Europe has something for you. I hope my story will inspire you to pack your bags and create your own memories.
The continent that once seemed impossibly vast from a bus window now feels like home from 30,000 feet. Both perspectives taught me that Europe’s true beauty lies not just in its famous landmarks or budget-friendly corners, but in the journey itself – and the courage to take that first step.
Top Travel Spots in Europe
My Recommended Destinations A Click Away
