coach tours from london

• Windsor Castle Half Day
• Canterbury & Dove
• Stonehenge & Bath
• Harry Potter
• Canterbury & Dover
• Stonehenge & Avebury Stone Circles
• Oxford & Cambridge
• Isle of Wight
• Stonehenge & Circles of Avebury
• Special Access – Evening
• Special Access – Morning
• Stonehenge & Windsor Castle from London
• Stonehenge Summer Solstice

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• The Roman Baths
• Evening Cream Tea
• Tower of London
• River Cruise
• Theatre: Live Shows

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Outside London

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Day tours from london and attractions, day tours from london this week.

Stonehenge and Bath Guided Day Tour from London From £95

A chance to see the hard to reach locations. Absorb new horizons and see the landscapes wider. Add Entrance to the Roman Baths when booking and you will have a memorable experience. Includes a tour guide, coach transport and entrance.

Canterbury and Dover Guided Day Tour from London From £115

Take a day trip from London and visit Canterbury and Dover two of the most beautiful & historical parts of England. Includes a tour guide, entrances and coach transport.

Windsor Castle Half Day Trip from London Including Entry From £79

A Royal Experience: Our Windsor Castle Tour includes a tour guide, Windsor Castle entry and coach transport.

From London: The Cotswolds and Broadway Tower with Cream Tea From £129

This small group tour from London allows you to experience great English heritage in an inspiring location. It is designed to give you a more personal experience. Includes entry to the tower, a tour guide & coach transport.

From London: Stonehenge & the Stone Circles of Avebury From £109

This is a small group tour! Warm up to our surprise tour at West Kennet Long Barrow, a large Neolithic burial tomb and Silbury Hill, the tallest prehistoric man-made mound in Europe. The tour includes a tour guide, entrances and coach transport.

The Cotswolds Guided Day Tour from London From £85

Come and tour the largest area of outstanding natural beauty in England. The Tour includes a tour guide and coach transport.

Oxford and Cambridge Guided Day Tour from London From £89

Take a day outside of London and explore the stunning architecture & rich history of 2 of the most famous cities in the UK. The tour includes a tour guide, coach transport and entrance.

Stonehenge and Windsor Castle Tour from London with Entry Tickets From £99

Spend more time touring the ancient and mysterious Stonehenge and Windsor home to the royal family. This tour includes Windsor castle tickets, Stonehenge entrance, a tour guide and coach transport.

Cardiff Day Trip from London From £99

Get a chance to embrace tradition and travel through the heart of history to see the places where nature and beauty combine. Includes a tour guide, coach transport and entrance.

London Rock and Roll Tour Including Abbey Road From £60

Small group tour of the Rock & Roll Landmarks of London, with a guide who worked in the industry for many years. Includes a tour guide, coach transport & entrances.

Isle of Wight Day Trip from London From £109

Take a day trip from London by coach to the beautiful Isle of Wight. Includes a tour guide, coach transport and entrance.

Glastonbury and Cheddar Gorge Guided Day Tour from London From £89

Adventure out of London into Somerset to areas full of history, legend & beautiful landscapes. The tour includes a tour guide, coach transport and entrance.

Private Tours from London

We also organise private tours for groups. From London tours to tours outside London. Using our luxury buses and coaches, we will pick you from a location in London or near London and drop-off at a location of your choice. The itinerary for a private group could include organising transportation, attraction entrances, guides, meals, accommodation, ferry crossings, Eurotunnel crossings and many more. For more information about the private tours we offer or to send us your itinerary please send us an email to [email protected].

Coach Tours from London

Discover daily coach trips from London to iconic spots like Stonehenge and the Cotswolds. Travel in style with our luxury coaches, expert guides, and all-inclusive packages.

Choose your London Pickup Location

We offer a range of pick-up points located in central & west London, all of which are easy to reach by public transport. You can choose to meet us at whichever pick-up point is most convenient for you.

Day Tours from London

Immerse yourself in the beauty of England with our guided day tours from London. Our knowledgeable team will lead you to both iconic sights and off-the-beaten-path treasures, all seamlessly experienced by coach.

For over 27 years we’ve strived to offer tours with the best service and outstanding value. We continue to improve and refine our tours with your enjoyment as our main priority.

Click here for the full list of attractions and day tours from London:

Privacy Overview

Small group guided tours of England and the UK from London

Small groups.

#1 rated small group day tours from London. See the best of England with a family run company, and tour on a luxury bus with an expert guide. 

The Cotswolds, Oxford & Stratford upon Avon

Canterbury, dover castle and cliffs & kent villages, great guides, stonehenge, bath & a secret place ®, one day tours..

Make the most of your time in London with a guided tour of England’s must see destinations. Our bus tours take the back roads, with a great guide in a small group on our award winning day trips from London. Visit Stonehenge, Cotswolds, Oxford, Bath, Canterbury, Stratford-upon-Avon, Dover, Bruges & more. Don’t get lost in the crowd. Join The English Bus for the best tour experience.

Stonehenge, Bath & A Secret Place ®

The cotswolds, oxford & stratford upon avon, canterbury, dover castle and cliffs & kent villages, a cotswolds village, bath and stonehenge, warner bros. studio tour london - the making of harry potter & oxford, winter solstice sunrise tour at stonehenge 2024, belgium – a day in beautiful bruges.

#theenglishbus on Instagram

" We already had high expectations for this tour, but the English Bus managed to exceed them. "Johny," our guide/driver, struck a perfect balance between professionalism and humor. The 'secret place' was the icing on the cake. " Christopher, Massachusetts, USA - a TripAdvisor reviewer

"Lilly was absolutely LOVELY! She was enthusiastic and humorous and very well-informed! The English Bus has mastered the day tour! Thank you Lilly for one of the best days of our vacation." Karen, San Diego, USA - a TripAdvisor reviewer

"Our tour guide, Lilly was wonderful. She mixed history, culture, and enthusiasm in a way that brought the whole experience alive! The tour group size was perfect, small, but enough people to interact." Daniel, USA - a TripAdvisor reviewer

FLASH SALE💥   Book now for   up to 60% off!

Best 3 day Tours from London

Find the best 3 day adventures and trips starting from London. Choose from 122 tours - we've found the most popular time to visit is in August with the most number of tour departures.

32 trips from London with 122 reviews

• Christmas & New Year

2-Day Windsor, Stonehenge, Bath & Oxford Small-Group Tour from London

His commentary was informative and fun, and his driving was amazing!

• In-depth Cultural
• Coach / Bus

3-Day Stonehenge, Glastonbury, Bath & the South West Coast Small-Group Tour from London

We were very happy and saw areas not expected.

Independent London City Stay

Iconic England Tour - 3 days

• Walking Adventure

Iconic England 3 Day Tour with Stonehenge, Roman Baths & Windsor Castle

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Sightseeing

London - Dublin & The Aran Islands

London Explorer (3 Days)

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

London - Dublin & Wicklow

Heart of England Express (Hotel) - 2 days

Heart of England Express - 2 days

Reviews of 3 day tours from london.

Was a fantastic trip. Our guide was the best. Our trip was Sept 10/11 with an overnight stay in Bath.

We had a wonderful time! Our tour guide, Kate, was knowledgeable and accommodating for all of our interests and needs. I would highly recommend this trip.

• England Travel Guide | All You Need to Know

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London is an incredible city with a wealth of attractions, but sometimes we all need a change of scenery. Luckily, the United Kingdom boasts an impressive transportation network, making it easy to go on exciting day trips from London. Whether you prefer the convenience of a bus or the comfort of a train, we’ve curated a list of 14 amazing destinations that will capture your imagination.

Best coach day trips from London

1 – oxford.

Hop on a comfortable bus from London to Oxford and immerse yourself in the city’s prestigious academic atmosphere. The journey takes around 1h10 and costs an average of £15. Explore the stunning architecture of the University of Oxford, visit the famous Bodleian Library, and take a peaceful stroll along the idyllic River Cherwell. Tickets from London to Oxford from £13

2 – Cambridge

Catch a bus from London to Cambridge, which takes approximately 1h15 and costs about £15. Admire the exquisite college buildings, go punting on the River Cam, and be captivated by the charm of this picturesque city. Don’t forget to visit the world-renowned King’s College Chapel, a true architectural masterpiece.

Buses from London to Cambridge from £5

3 – Bath

Take a relaxing ride from London to Bath, lasting around 2h40 hours and priced at around £30. Uncover the fascinating history of this UNESCO World Heritage city by exploring the Roman Baths and the elegant Georgian architecture. Make sure to indulge in a rejuvenating soak at the Thermae Bath Spa, Britain’s only natural thermal spa.

Buses from London to Bath from £6

4 – Brighton

Board a coach from London to Brighton and enjoy the refreshing sea breeze on a journey that takes roughly 1 hour and costs as little as £4. Stroll along the famous pebble beach, wander through the charming streets of The Lanes, and take a ride on the iconic Brighton Palace Pier. Don’t miss the Royal Pavilion, an exotic architectural gem.

Buses from London to Brighton from £4

5 – Canterbury

Embark on a bus journey from London to Canterbury, lasting around  hour and priced at approximately £10. Explore the captivating Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and meander through the medieval streets lined with timber-framed houses. Immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of this enchanting city.

Buses from London to Canterbury from £6

6 – Stratford-upon-Avon

Take a scenic train journey from London to Stratford-upon-Avon, lasting approximately 2 hours and priced at around £21. Immerse yourself in the world of William Shakespeare as you explore his birthplace, visit his family homes, and watch a performance by the renowned Royal Shakespeare Company. Enjoy the delightful charm of this historic market town.

Bus from London to Stratford-upon-Avon from £21

7 – Salisbury

The journey from London to Salisbury takes approximately 1.5 hours and costs around £25. Visit the iconic Salisbury Cathedral, home to the tallest spire in Britain, and explore the charming medieval streets. Don’t miss the opportunity to marvel at the mysterious prehistoric site of Old Sarum, a hill fort with a rich history.

Bus from London to Salisbury from £9

8 – Bournemouth

Relax on the sandy beaches, take a stroll through the beautiful Lower Gardens, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Bournemouth. With its seaside beauty, Bournemouth is the perfect escape from city life. The price for the 2h bus ride starts at £8, while you can find train tickets from £23, with the ride lasting about 1h45.

Find your tickets to Bournemouth.

9 – Bristol

Immerse yourself in the vibrant street art scene of Bristol’s famous Stokes Croft area, visit the SS Great Britain, and take a leisurely boat trip on the River Avon. Embrace Bristol’s artistic and nautical delights. Traveling from London to Bristol by bus takes about 2h15, with bus ticket prices starting at only £2 on Busbud. You can also get there by train, with the rail tickets costing about £37 and the trip lasting 1h13.

Book your coach tickets to Bristol

10 – Cardiff

Experience the Welsh culture in Cardiff and explore the beautiful Cardiff Castle. Take a relaxing stroll through Bute Park and visit the National Museum Cardiff. Traveling from London to Cardiff by bus takes from 2h10 to 3h30 depending on the bus you choose, with tickets priced at approximately £16 on Busbud. You can also take the train to Cardiff, with fares starting at £53 for the 1h48 journey.

Book your bus tickets to Cardiff here.

11 – Manchester

Discover Manchester’s rich industrial heritage at the Science and Industry Museum, explore the vibrant Northern Quarter, and enjoy the diverse culinary scene. This dynamic city has something for everyone! Traveling from London to Manchester by train takes about 2 hours, with tickets priced at approximately £34 on Busbud.

Train tickets from London to Manchester from £34

12 – Dover 

Visit the breathtaking White Cliffs of Dover and the Dover Castle, and take a calming walk along the coastal paths. Dover’s natural beauty and historic landmarks will leave you in awe. Traveling from London to Dover by bus takes about 2 hours, with tickets priced at starting at £6 on Busbud.

Book tickets from London to Dover from £6

13 – Colchester

Discover Colchester, the oldest recorded town in Britain, boasting impressive Roman ruins such as the Roman Walls and the Colchester Castle. Enjoy the serene beauty of the Castle Gardens for a perfect day trip from London. The travel time from London is about 2h, with tickets starting at £9.

Book tickets from London to Colchester from £9

14 – Whitstable

Indulge in the finest oysters and experience the laid-back charm of Whitstable. Stroll along the beachfront, explore the quaint alleys, and savor the fresh sea breeze. With bus tickets starting at £6 and the journey lasting from 55m to 1h35, Whitstable promises a delightful coastal escape!

Book coach tickets from London to Whistable from £6

Finding the best bus and train tickets using Busbud

Busbud is the go-to place to find the best bus and train tickets to travel around the UK, but also to explore over 80 countries around the world. Here are some of the best tips to find affordable tickets for your great adventures.

• Plan in advance: Booking your tickets early can often help you secure the best prices and availability.
• Use Busbud’s website or app: Busbud provides a user-friendly platform to search for bus and train tickets, compare prices, and find the most convenient routes.
• Be flexible with travel dates: Some days and times may offer cheaper fares, so consider adjusting your schedule if possible.
• Consider different departure points: Depending on your location in London, you may have multiple departure points available, allowing you to choose the most convenient option.
• Keep an eye out for promotions: Busbud frequently offers promotions and discounts, so make sure to check their website or subscribe to their newsletter to stay informed.

Embarking on day trips from London is a fantastic way to explore the diverse beauty and rich history of the United Kingdom. Whether you choose to hop on a bus or board a train, you’ll be treated to captivating destinations, from the scholarly ambiance of Oxford to the sun-soaked charm of Brighton.

Remember to plan ahead, compare prices on Busbud, and take advantage of any discounts or promotions available. Get ready to embark on unforgettable adventures and create lasting memories as you explore these incredible day trip destinations. 

This is, in my opinion, one of the best posts that you have made. Your work is quite outstanding in both quality and quantity. I am grateful to you for it.

Absolutely, I agree with the sentiments expressed. London’s charm and array of tourist spots are certainly captivating, but it’s true that sometimes a change of environment is refreshing. Luckily, the United Kingdom offers a comprehensive transportation system that makes embarking on exciting day trips from London a seamless experience. Regardless of whether you opt for a bus or train, the list of 14 remarkable destinations mentioned in the text promises to ignite your imagination.

Additionally, it’s worth noting that these day trips provide wonderful opportunities to break away from the routine and explore new places, allowing for unique experiences. This curated list appears to cater to a diverse range of interests among travelers.

Nice Article this is very helpful content.

Thank you for producing such a fascinating essay on this subject. This has sparked a lot of thought in me, and I’m looking forward to reading more.

The means of transport that I often take, but the route to wonderful places like this, I don’t know. Thank you for the article it has made me more knowledgeable

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Copa America 2024: your comprehensive travel and savings guide

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Sightseeing London

Free cancellation, no hidden fees, local customer service, london and out of london tours at unbeatable prices.

Since 1910, Gray Line has been a trusted provider of traveler experiences and sightseeing tours in the world’s most sought after locations. Helping you discover a new destination – that’s our passion! With hundreds of local offices, our team of on-site experts is there to help you see the sights and do the things that you just can’t miss.

Gray Line London is proud to be operated by Golden Tours, a London-based, family-run company that was established over 31 years ago. We are the London Experts, having served over 10 million customers to date and been awarded Trusted Merchant status by Feefo. We are Preferred Partners of Warner Bros. Studio Tour London amongst others, and have satisfied customers in over 150 countries around the world. 

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London Coach Holidays

View all of our London Great Breaks and South East Coach Holidays .

The best lights of London by coach

Visiting London for a day trip or weekend away  by coach is a fabulous way to experience the capital city at its best. Why not book a brilliant weekend coach trip to London now for you and your loved ones and enjoy a fun packed getaway in the big smoke.

Visit the famous landmarks

London is famous around the globe for being the hustling, bustling, melting pot capital city of England. With so much to do and see, London is a fabulous destination for a weekend coach trip or a coach day trip. From visiting famous urban landmarks like Big Ben or the London Eye, to the hundreds of amazing food spots, the parks, the arts and historic sites, you will be hard pressed to run out of activities.

Professional customer-centred travel

When it comes to providing professional, flexible and customer-centred coach travel services to London, you can rely on Johnsons with confidence. With decades of experience in providing seamless coach travel services from weekend breaks in London by coach with overnight stays to outstanding day trips by coach to London. We also offer private and VIP coach hire for London and have the experience to help you get you where you want to go.

Fantastic London Great Breaks to explore!

We are proud to present a truly broad variety of day and weekend coach trips to London in our Great Breaks collection . Our coach trips to London offer a variety of experiences from cruising along the Royal River Thames or visiting the Chelsea Flower show in summer. For a short Great Break, our classic two-day, London City Break coach trip offers an overnight stay and the chance to explore the electric atmosphere of London’s landmarks, parks, theatre land and shopping.

Looking for a languid and uptown London coach trip experience?

Why not book onto our London Lunch Cruise and Kensington Palace G.B escapade and enjoy the uptown views and calming presence of the water of the river Thames. Our London based day and weekend coach trips are designed and curated to give you the most possible time to be making your memories, fully immersed in the magic of London.

Why book a luxury Coach trip to London?

Adding a touch of luxury to your coach trip to London is easy when you book with Johnsons. With many of our London coach trips being taken in our executive coaches with our club class extra legroom specification, you can sit back and enjoy the journey in ultimate comfort and safety.

Choose Johnsons Coaches for your London Coach Trips

If you’re looking to hire a coach privately for a large group you can also do so by contacting the Johnsons private hire bookings team on [email protected] . If you’re after a VIP coach hire service in London, then look no further than Johnsons to meet your requirements. Whether you’re organising a day trip to London to see a show or to attend an event, for large group corporate events or parties, we have the experience and coaches to meet all of your London coach travel needs.

Contact Johnsons today

To discuss what options are available to you or to book one of brilliant London coach trips or holidays , contact a member of our friendly books team on 01564 797 000 or email us on [email protected] .

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Premium Tours offer a wide range of luxury coach tours and a vintage open top London bus tour. The coach tour begins with a tour of St. Paul's Cathedral, see the Crown Jewels at the Tower of London and ends at the London Eye. Our London bus tour can be packaged with an afternoon visit to Stonehenge or traditional pub lunch.

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Tours from London

Tours from london - experience more than the capital of england.

Departing London and venturing around England, provides a kaleidoscope of possibilities. Known internationally as a cultural hub for travellers, students, and people from all walks of life, this city is not to be missed as a starting point. But what can you expect when you step outside its walls and tour England ? While London is home to the royal family, and a labyrinth of vital historical moments, British culture starts when you depart on a day or multi-day trip. Think stretches of open landscapes, quaint villages almost sketched from books, and finishing the day with new found friends over a pint in the local pub. All that's left is for you to take a chance and book the adventure you’re desperately seeking.

Planning Your Tour from London

After commiting to London as a departure point, you still have many boxes to tick before jetsetting to England. How many days to stay? What landmarks to tick off? Do you do a small-group tour or explore solo? Luckily we have the perfect guide to help. Find out how to plan your short trip with our expert advice.

Travel Responsibly from London

We love travelling from London and experiencing all that surrounds it. From the Cotswolds villages , to the Birthplace of Shakespeare, each day tour from London has something special to offer its guests. Through our responsible travel initiative , we donate, volunteer, use small mini-coaches and do as much as we can to protect locations for future generations to enjoy.

Did You Know?

- Those iconic double-decker buses we all love weren’t always red. They used to be painted a variety of colours to represent routes. But we’re glad they made the change. - There are so many trees in London that it’s technically considered a forest. - Westminster Abbey holds the remains of over 3,300 people… making it a rather beautiful graveyard.

Don’t Miss Out

- Even if you don’t go to visit the blue door, Notting Hill is a vibrant area bursting with cafes, shops, and markets. - The British Museum is home to a collection of about 8 million artefacts. You could spend your whole visit inside the museum. - Half the fun is in the food. Don’t miss out on sampling a hearty traditional English breakfast.

• Stonehenge Tours

Uncover the mystery behind Stonehenge

• Evan Evans Tours

STONEHENGE TOURS FROM LONDON

Embark on a captivating journey through time with our Stonehenge Tours from London, where ancient mysteries and awe-inspiring landscapes await you. Join us for a day of exploration and discovery as we take you on a scenic adventure to one of the world's most iconic and enigmatic landmarks.

Our professionally guided tours start from the heart of London, where you'll board a comfortable, air-conditioned coach for a picturesque drive through the English countryside . As you travel, our knowledgeable guides will share fascinating insights into the rich history and legends surrounding Stonehenge, providing context to this prehistoric wonder.

Combine your trip with a visit to Windsor , Oxford, or the beautiful Bath and its famous Roman ruins. Our special Inner Access Day Tour allows you to walk inside the stone circle. Or uncover the mysteries of Stonehenge at your own pace on a Private Chauffeured Tour .  Evan Evans is the best-rated tour, and you can cancel your tour free of charge. Every tour coach comes equipped with free Wi-Fi, USB charging, comfortable seats, air conditioning, and one of our expert guides on board.

POPULAR STONEHENGE TOURS

Why not choose from a selection of our most popular Stonehenge Tours?

Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Bath

Our immersive and guided day tour to the impressive official Royal residence Windsor Castle, the world's top neolithic site, Stonehenge, and the beautiful Georgian city of Bath.

Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Oxford

Stonehenge and Bath Tours

Stonehenge Express

Stonehenge 'Inner Circle Access' & Windsor

Stonehenge & Bath - Private Chauffeured Tour

Stonehenge & Windsor Tour

Royal Windsor & Stonehenge Private Tour

Windsor, Stonehenge & Bath - Private Chauffeured Tour

Recommended stonehenge day trips, stonehenge and bath tour.

From £95.00

Step back 5,000 years in time to pre-historic Britain at the world's most famous Neolithic monument and explore the resplendent Georgian city of Bath and its ancient Roman Baths.

Windsor Castle, Stonehenge and Oxford Tour

From £79.00

Visit the Queen's weekend retreat and the ancestral home of the British monarchy before heading off to uncover the mystery of Stonehenge and explore the historic university city of Oxford.

WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT?

As experts in sightseeing and driven by service, we're passionate about creating memories which will last our guests a lifetime

Make Travel Matter

This is our goal. We recognize our responsibility to ensure our impact on the planet we call home, the people we visit, and the wildlife we find there, is a positive one. We take steps to address our impact in two ways; through our sustainability strategy, How We Tread Right, and through our TreadRight Foundation.

London sightseeing bus tours : places to visit in London

London themed tours.

Unique rooftop on wheels

• Catchy playlist
• Drinks available on board

London Kids Tour

Non-stop live guided bus tour

• Live guided in English
• Fun and educational

London by Night

Non-stop evening bus tour

• 3 walking tours
• Adult & kids commentary

London Christmas Lights Tour

• London's iconic lights

Hop-on hop-off tours: Discover London at your own pace

Must See London

Hop-on hop-off bus tour + cruise

• 1, 2 or 3 days
• 3 bus routes
• River cruise

London Discovery

Hop-on hop-off bus tour + walking tours

London Discovery + London By Night

Daytime hop-on hop-off bus tour + evening bus tour

• 3 daytime bus routes
• 1 night tour

Private Tour

Private Bus Hire London

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• Team building
• Educational tours

Discover London with Tootbus , the must-do sightseeing bus tour experience!

 Enjoy our various routes to explore the city at your own pace, with panoramic views from our open-top deck buses .

Embark wherever you like on our different lines to discover London and all its iconic landmarks.  Our themed tours will immerse you in the heart of its history, culture, and architectural wonders. Whether with children on the Kids Tour , over a drink on the Bar Bus , or with your loved one on the Night Tour , there's something for everyone!

Continue your excursion beyond your sightseeing bus tour with Tootwalk . Our free guided walking tours , available through the Tootbus app on App Store and Google Play , will accompany you on your strolls in London, which will no longer hold any secrets for you. 

Let the city simply take you by surprise, welcome to London!

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London and Paris Explorer

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9 Day London and Paris Sightseeing Tour

9 days, 2 countries and 7 cities

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8 Breakfasts, 3 Dinners

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Experience all the main icons of two great cities on this London and Paris trip. Enjoy an in-depth discovery of London with a side visit to Windsor, Bath, and the mystical giants of Stonehenge. It’s just a hop across the pond to Paris to explore, dine and live like a local as you soak up its joie de vivre.

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9 days itinerary trip from London to Paris visiting 2 countries and 7 cities

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About this trip

Sightseeing highlights.

Explore London and Paris

Discover Bath and Windsor

Visit the Roman Baths in Bath, Stonehenge, and the Palace of Versailles

View the Eiffel Tower, the Champs-Élysées, the Arc de Triomphe and Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris

See Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and Buckingham Palace in London and the White Cliffs of Dover

Travel highlights

Specific transfer information can be found here:

Airport Transfers

An expert Travel Director and professional Driver

The services of a Trafalgar Local Host when you stay at Trafalgar's recommended London hotel

Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted

All porterage and restaurant gratuities

All hotel tips, charges and local taxes

Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals

Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras

Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing

Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)

Ferry across the Channel from Dover to Calais

Optional Experiences and free time

On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences

Every one of our tours includes at least one conscious travel experience that supports one or more of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS). Look out for yours within the day-by-day trip itinerary.

Find out more

Net-zero by 2050

Travel knowing our 4-point climate action plan will ensure net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Support Local

Your tour directly supports local communities by visiting family-run businesses, UNESCO sites and places of cultural significance.

Sustainable Practices

Every part of our business, from trip design to how we run our offices, aligns to our 5-year sustainability strategy which ensures a positive impact on people, the planet and wildlife.

Philanthropic Efforts

Our not-for-profit, the TreadRight Foundation, invests in nature-based solutions to address climate change.

You’ll make a positive impact to people, planet and wildlife on this tour

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Stansted Airport coach transfers

Coaches to stansted airport from £7.50 one-way*.

Choose Your Journey

• Use my current location
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Outbound date

Select time, outward journey, return date.

Select a return within 3 months of your outward travel.

Return Journey

Children under 14 years of age are not permitted to travel without being accompanied throughout the journey by a responsible person aged 16 years or over. Children aged 14 - 15 years old may travel unaccompanied, as from 5am, arriving at their booked destination no later than 10pm. Unaccompanied children will be asked for proof of age or a signed letter of permission from their parent/guardian. (sms or chat based messages are not permissible)

One infant aged 0-2 travels free when accompanied by an adult with a valid ticket. Additional infants aged 0-2 must be paid for. If you are travelling with more than 1 infant aged 0-2, please book the additional infant as 'Children (3-15).

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Hassle-free Stansted Airport transfers

Popular routes to stansted airport.

Please scroll across for further information on our popular routes

Not all journeys to Stansted Airport are listed here. To see all possible routes, please use our Journey Planner at the top of the page

London to Stansted Airport

Because our coaches depart from a variety of stops around London, you’ll find some National Express buses more convenient than the train. Travel to Stansted from one of these central London stops at a time that suits you.

A5 service - travels up to 16 times a day and calls at the following stops:

• London (Paddington Station)
• London (Marble Arch)
• London (Baker Street)
• London (St John's Wood)
• London (Finchley Road)
• London (Finchley Road & Frognal)
• London (Golders Green)
• Stansted Airport Coach Station

A6 service - travels up to 48 times a day and calls at the following stops:

• London Victoria Coach Station
• London Victoria Rail Station

A7 service   - travels up to 46 times a day and calls at the following stops:

• London (Waterloo Station)
• London (Southwark)

A8 service - travels up to 50 times a day and calls at the following stops:

• London (Whitechapel)
• London (Liverpool Street)
• London (Shoreditch)
• London (Bethnal Green)
• London (Mile End)
• London (Bow)

A9 service - travels up to 57 times a day and calls at the following stops:

• London (Stratford)

Service updates - 12 July 2024

From 12 July, our A services will be updated for better convenience when travelling between London and Stansted. For more information, including a list of stops, please visit our London to Stansted page.

Delayed flight?

For just £5 each way, our Change & Go Add On lets you be completely flexible with which coach you board to and from the airport

Board any available coach 12 hours before or after your original departure time.

So if your flight is delayed, then there's no need to panic; you can just hop on the next available coach.

Simply add the 'Change & Go' option to your ticket in the Add Extras section of the booking process.

At the airport

With 16 airlines flying to 150 destinations worldwide, Stansted Airport sees more than 120 million passengers every year. Situated 40 miles outside of London, it’s easily accessible.

Stansted has a dozen restaurants serving everything from everyday favourites to luxury cuisine.

There’s all the duty-free merchandise you’d expect at an airport. Shoppers are well catered for, with high street chains and high-end fashion outlets like Chanel.

There are also plenty of ATMs, currency exchange options and free Wi-Fi  for 4 hours.

Before visiting the airport, it’s best to familiarise yourself with what you can take through security to avoid any delays.

While every airline has its own hand and hold baggage allowances, be sure to follow the usual rules when passing through security, i.e. not taking through liquids more than 100ml.

In a rush? Stansted Airport has a FastTrack Security service which, for a fee of £7, will get you to your gate in no time.

A full set of security guidelines can be found on the Stansted airport website .

Boarding guidance

To ensure a stress-free travel experience we recommend you get to the airport at least 3 hours before your scheduled flight departure time. Most airlines will allow you to check-in online, which should save you time. Otherwise, look for your flight number on the screens at the terminal entrance and you will find the corresponding check-in desk.

Once through security, leave extra time to get to your gate.

Stansted Airport is fully accessible for people with disabilities - offering escalators, lifts and ramps throughout, as well as a special security area sensitive to disability needs. There’s also a Special Assistance Help Desk between Check-in Zone D and Zone E which is manned 24/7.

Useful info

Stansted Airport’s Mobile App is available to download and covers everything from terminal information to special offers.

Key contact details

General enquiries and flight information – 0844 335 1803

Car parking – 0800 093 7851 Immigration - 0870 606 7766 - bia.homeoffice.gov.uk Lost Property – 0870 606 7766 - [email protected] Shop & Collect – 01279 662546

Can I buy my ticket to Stansted Airport from the National Express coach driver?

Drivers can only sell tickets via cash payment (and may have limited change), to avoid delays to your service and to guarantee you a seat, please purchase your ticket before travel.

By booking in advance you may save more on ticket prices and you can also manage any bookings by signing up to My Account . Book now using the blue journey planner on NationalExpress.com .

In addition, you can call the National Express Contact Centre on 08717 818181 between 10am and 6pm, 7 days a week. Calls cost 13p per minute plus your phone company's access charge.

What happens if my airline cancels my flight at short notice and I don't need to travel by coach?

Contact your airline or travel insurer to recover the costs.

If you have a refundable ticket and you cancel your ticket at least 72 hours prior to your outward journey, you will be able to claim a refund subject to our usual terms and conditions .

I'm catching a flight. How much time should I allow before check-in?

Be sure to leave sufficient time between the arrival time of your coach and departure time of your flight.

When booking your coach to the airport, plan to arrive at the airport no later than 3 hours before the departure time of your flight.

Even if you have checked in online, leave at least an hour to clear security at the airport.

Can we catch an earlier coach from Stansted if our flight arrives early?

Yes , we can help you do that. On arrival, speak to a member of our National Express team at the airport and they will be happy to assist you.

Any changes you make will be subject to an amendment fee and an excess fare, depending on the ticket type you booked.

Please note, amendments will only be available on Fully Flexible and Standard tickets.

What should I do if my flight is delayed?

When booking a coach, allow at least 1 hour 30 minutes after landing to clear passport control, collect any luggage and make your way to our departure point.

Flexible and Standard tickets can only be amended before the time of departure and might be subject to an amendment fee, excess fare and seat availability. If your flight is delayed, contact our staff as soon as possible.

Open return tickets will allow you to be booked onto the next available service without extra fees. This ticket is valid for 3 months from the original date of departure.

Alternatively, a Change & Go Add-on is available from our online 'add extras' page, allowing you to:

• Board any available coach 12 hours before or 12 hours after your original departure time
• Amend your ticket to a new departure date – free of charge
• Cancel up to 24 hours before departure and receive a refund

I purchased a ticket whilst booking a flight through the Ryanair website but I have not received my ticket?

Tickets for Stansted Airport transfers purchased through Ryanair.com may take up to 24 hours to be delivered via e-mail.

If you still have not received your National Express ticket after 24 hours, please check your junk/spam folder for tickets from [email protected] or [email protected] .

Otherwise, contact our National Express customer services team . Please have your Ryanair booking reference number to hand when you get in touch.

When hopping on our Stansted Airport transfer service, you can take two 20kg suitcases and one item of hand luggage per passenger.

Top Tip: always check your flight luggage allowance with your airline before packing.

View our luggage policy

Transfers between Stansted and other airports

When you need a fast and convenient transfer service between the four London airports, our coaches are ready when you are.

Book online to guarantee your seat or visit the ticket office upon arrival.

Popular routes

Stansted Airport routes:

• Stansted to London
• Birmingham to Stansted
• Cambridge to Stansted
• Leicester to Stansted
• London Liverpool Street to Stansted
• London Southwark to Stansted
• London Waterloo to Stansted
• Oxford to Stansted

Inter-airport routes to Stansted:

• Gatwick to Stansted
• Heathrow  to Stansted
• Luton  to Stansted

Inter-airport routes from Stansted:

• Stansted to Gatwick
• Stansted to Heathrow
• Stansted to Luton

Use our Timetable Finder to see which services are running and when...

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Open Return Information

Book your return

Your Open Dated Return is valid for 3 months from your outbound journey. To guarantee your seat on your return you need to confirm your ticket before you travel on www.nationalexpress.com/en/help/tickets/open-returns or call 0371 781 8181.

Open Dated Return Information

If your return date is not yet known, open return tickets provide flexibility. When travelling within the UK, the return journey can be made within 3 months of the outward date of travel. To guarantee your seat on your return journey you need to confirm your ticket before you travel by visiting www.nationalexpress.com/en/help/tickets/open-returns or call us on 03717 81 81 81. Lines open 7 days a week, 8am - 8pm (calls to this number are charged at local rate). Valid on any day throughout the year.

Open returns are not available on European journeys.

Wheelchair accessibility

Accessible coaches.

The majority of stops along the routes listed below are accessible to wheelchair users but are subject to change. Please call us to check the latest situation before booking and at least 36 hours in advance of when you would like to travel.

To see a list of accessible coach routes please visit our Accessibility page.

Assisted Travel Helpline

If you are travelling in a wheelchair or require assistance, please call our helpline before booking and at least 36 hours in advance of when you would like to travel.

03717 81 81 81 - ( option 3)  (lines open 8am - 8pm 7 days a week). Calls to this number are charged at local rate.

For more information please visit our Disabled travellers page.

Passengers & Wheelchair accessibility

Passenger descriptions.

Our passenger descriptions are designed to help you choose the right ticket for yourself or your fellow travellers.

Adult (16+) and Children (3-15)

Children under 14 cannot travel alone unless accompanied by an adult (16+). Please note, you may be required to show proof of age at any point during your journey. Failure to do so, may result in the full adult fare being charged.

Children (3-15)

Children under 14 cannot travel alone unless accompanied by a responsible adult (16+).

Disabled Children

Should be booked as Children. If they are travelling in a wheelchair or require assistance, please call our Assisted Travel Helpline.

We strongly recommend that you bring a car seat appropriate to your child's age, but ask you to take responsibility to fit the seat.

Booster Seats

Children aged between approximately 4-11 years old, or up to 150cm tall, may use booster seats. We carry a limited number onboard most coaches.

If travelling with a child, you may be required to show proof of age when buying tickets or at any point during your journey. Failure to do so may result in the child being required to pay the full fare for the journey on that day.

Booster seats

Children aged between approximately 4 years and 11 years or up to 150cm tall may use booster seats, we carry a limited number onboard most coaches along with our comfort fit seat belts.

Disabled children should be booked as children rather than 'Disabled'. If they are travelling in a wheelchair or you wish to book assistance with travel please call our Assisted Travel Helpline before booking and at least 36 hours in advance of when you would like to travel.

You can find a list of accessible coach stops on our Accessibility page .

Please call us 36 hours prior to travelling to check the latest status.

If you are travelling in a wheelchair or require assistance we recommend that you contact us on the following local rate telephone number: 03717 81 81 81 (lines open 8am - 8pm 7 days a week) 36 hours in advance of when you would like to travel.

Adult (26 - 59)

Adult fares are applicable to all passengers aged between of 26 and 59 inclusive.

Child 0 - 12 inclusive

Children aged 12 or under travelling on any European service must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 or over.

Unaccompanied children will not be carried

Young persons (13 - 25)

Children under the age of 16 are not permitted to travel on any European service unless accompanied by an adult aged 18 or over.

Young persons aged 16 or 17 years can travel alone on European services but only if they have a letter of authority from a parent or guardian.

Senior (60 and over)

Passengers aged 60 and over are entitled to receive a small discount on European journeys. On European journeys a 50% discount is given to carers, please call us on 08717 818177 to book.

Please select your passenger type first and then add your coachcards.

We have three different Coachcards available, each offering savings of 1/3 on all of our Standard and Fully Flexible coach fares all year round.

Prices shown include your coachcard discount, your coachcard number will be required during the booking process.

Adult fares are applicable to all passengers aged 2+. Adults under the age of 16 are not permitted to travel alone on any European service unless accompanied by an adult aged 18 or over or they have a letter of authority from a parent or guardian.

Infants 0-1 Inclusive

Children aged under the age of 2, must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 or over. Unaccompanied children will not be carried.

Europe Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 18, 2024

From beautiful Paris to smoke-filled coffeeshops in Amsterdam, Oktoberfest to La Tomatina, Europe is a massive, diverse continent with an unlimited assortment of things to see and do. You won’t have any problem filling your time, whether you’re backpacking Europe for a few months on a budget or just spending a few weeks there on a well-earned vacation.

The continent boasts wonderful beaches, historical architecture, amazing wine, and tons of world-class festivals. Every country is incredibly different from the next too, providing limitless variety in what you do during your trip.

I first backpacked Europe in 2006 and was hooked immediately. I’ve been visiting every year since, have run tours around the continent, and even wrote a book on traveling in Europe . It’s a destination I love and never get tired of exploring.

This guide will give you an overview of Europe and the tips and tricks you need to start planning your trip. I’ve also written extensive travel guides to each country on the continent (linked below in this post) so you can get more in-depth information for your specific itinerary too!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Europe

Click Here for Country Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in europe.

1. Tour the Greek Islands

These islands are the mecca of summer beach fun and each is unique in its own great way. There’s Ios (beach party central with archeological ruins and awesome boat tours); Kos (ancient ruins and nature); Crete (Bronze Age ruins of Knossos, hiking, beaches, and wine), Santorini (iconic blue water, white buildings, and local wineries); Mykonos , (the upscale party island with beautiful beaches, villages, and sunsets), Naxos (best island in the Cyclades). Plus, Milos, Corfu, Lemnos, Zakynthos, and so many more! With hundreds of islands in the country, you can always find what you are looking for!

2. Ride the rails

Europe is famous for its international rail system. Rail passes like the Eurail Pass have been around forever and still make it very easy to get from country to country on a relatively small budget (and with lots of flexibility). Europe has some of the fastest trains in the world that travel up to an incredible 217 mph (350 kph). The whole continent is connected by trains and there’s a growing push for even more connections and long-distance, high-speed trains in order to reduce flying and help combat climate change. There’s nothing more quintessential than riding the trains in Europe and I encourage you to take as many trains as possible. It’s one of the best ways to see the continent.

3. Get lost in Paris

The “City of Lights” is everything people say it is. I fell in love with it the first time I stepped foot in Paris . The city is just magical. You have a ton of museums, cafes, jazz clubs, famous art, and beautiful architecture. I love just strolling around the streets of the Quartier Latin (Latin Quarter) or Montmartre neighborhood as it makes for a breathtaking day. Another one of my favorite things to do here is just sit in the Jardin des Champs-Élysées park and picnic like the Parisians. For something a bit different, check out the famous Catacombs and Paris Sewer Museum. With so much to offer in the way of culture, history, and gastronomy, it would take years to see everything here but you can still get a good feel of the city in a few days.

4. Go city hopping

There are so many amazing cities in Europe that we’d need a top 100 to list them all. Here are some of my personal favorites and must-see cities: London is rich in history, culture, and the famous Big Ben clock; Edinburgh is a vibrant medieval city with cozy pubs and a famous castle with a huge New Year’s Eve Party; Amsterdam has cozy coffee shops and canopied tree-covered canals; Berlin has a wild party scene, street art, and the Berlin Wall; Barcelona has tapas, beach, and unique Gaudi architecture; coastal Lisbon has colorful tiles, old tramcars, cobblestone streets and plenty of fresh seafood; Prague has a beautiful intact Old Town, incredible architecture and eclectic bars; Tallinn Estonia has beautiful medieval buildings with colorful roofs. Florence  is a mecca for Italian Renaissance architecture, art history, and gelato; Stockholm mixes medieval architecture and modern art and design. Crisscross the continent, take in the culture, and enjoy all the historic cities!

5. Hit the Alps

Whether you go skiing in the winter or hiking in the summer, the Alps hold some of the most breathtaking views in all the world. You don’t even need to be an expert hiker because there are mountain trails for all levels and crystal-clear Alpine lakes. Check out the spectacular Eibsee trail loop in Bavaria at the foot of Die Zugspitze, Germany’s tallest mountain, for the clearest, multi-colored, sparkling lake you’ve ever seen. Or the Männlichen Kleine Scheidegg Panorama trail in Switzerland’s stunning green and snow-capped Alps. Or visit Italy’s Dolomites in South Tyrol for the scenic Seceda trail. The Alps have trails for every fitness level and in every season.

Other Things to See and Do in Europe

1. tour amsterdam.

I love Amsterdam so much that I lived here for a short period of time in 2006. Here cobblestone and brick streets weave around lovely canals as people ride their bikes to and fro. My favorite things to enjoy here are Amsterdam’s vibrant art and music scene and there are also a ton of interesting museums here like the Anne Frank House, FOAM, the history museum, and the hemp museum. Be sure you get out of the center into Jordaan and Oost with their wonderful outdoor cafes and fewer tourists. Also, a visit to Amsterdam wouldn’t be complete without a canal cruise to visit the many islands and there are many to choose from that include snacks and drinks, sunset cruises, live guided tours, and more.

2. Hang out in Barcelona

Barcelona is a city that goes 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It truly could give NYC a run for the “city that never sleeps” title. Be prepared for late-night dinners and parties until dawn. Besides a great food and nightlife scene, there is a wonderful beach, tons of Gaudi architecture (including the fairytale-like Parc Güell, as well as the iconic Sagrada Familia , which has been under construction for over 100 years!), incredible food tours, one of the best history museums in the country, and lots of outdoor spaces. What I love about Barcelona is that when you’re ready to chill, you can wander around Parc de la Ciutadella and marvel at the majestic fountains, plant life, and buildings created from an ornate military fortress.

3. Visit Berlin

Hip and trendy Berlin is an energetic destination. It is one of Europe’s most affordable capital cities, with a vibrant music and art scene and a growing foodie movement. Be sure to spend some time learning about the city’s darker history via the many excellent museums, memorials, and landmarks. The East Side Gallery, a section of the Berlin Wall that’s now painted with murals, and the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe are two especially powerful reminders of Germany’s past. For all periods of German history, don’t miss the Deutsches Historisches Museum (German Historical Museum) – it’s one of the best history museums in the world. Once you’ve had your fill of history, relax in Berlin’s many green spaces, from Tempelhof Field, the site of a former airfield and popular local hangout spot, to Tiergarten, a tree-covered former hunting ground for 17th-century aristocrats.

4. Drink beer at Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest is a must for anyone going to Germany at the end of September. While not a budget option since beers now cost 15 € a maß, I love the energy and friendly camaraderie this event inspires. For two weeks, millions of people from all over the world gather for lots of beer, excitement, music, and wild fun. Watching thousands of people sing together, raising quart-sized beer mugs for endless toasts, and enjoying the general party atmosphere makes you feel good about the world. (Or maybe that’s just the beer?) Just be sure to book your accommodation well in advance and be prepared to pay top prices for them. If you don’t have an outfit, don’t worry, there are plenty of shops even at the main train station where you can buy a Bavarian dirndl dress and men’s lederhosen.

5. Experience London

Get a taste of English culture in diverse London . The museums here are some of the best in the world (most are free) and include the Tate, the British Museum, the City Museum, the National Gallery, the Historical Museum. There’s no shortage of iconic sights here as well, with Big Ben, the House of Parliament, the London Eye, the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, and of course, Buckingham Palace. I love London’s diversity because of the countless international eateries with great food and wonderful pub culture, perfect for after a long day seeing the sights. Head to Brick Lane on the weekends for some amazing food and craft markets. I prefer Paris to London, but there is something sophisticated and fun about London. Just watch those pints — London is not a cheap destination!

6. Get outdoors in Scandinavia

My favorite region in Europe is Scandinavia. The quality of life here is high, the people are beautiful and friendly, and the cities are clean and historic. Cycling the cities, taking canal tours, hiking the vast forested areas, archipelago hopping, enjoying fika (a Swedish coffee break), and warming up in saunas are just a few of the popular activities that await you here. True, this area of Europe is not cheap, but there are plenty of ways to reduce your expenses. Don’t let the high prices scare you away. Highlights for me include Copenhagen , Stockholm , Gotland, Norway’s fjords, and Lapland in Finland .

7. Get enchanted in Prague

Prague has an amazing history and is one of the most beautiful and picturesque cities I’ve ever seen. Highlights include the 9th-century Prague Castle, the magnificent Charles Bridge (built in the 14th century and one of the oldest standing bridges in the world), the 10th-century old square with its iconic astronomical clock, and the winding Jewish Quarter. Even if you only have a few days there don’t miss the free walking tour which is one of my favorites in Europe and the best way to learn about the Old Town and the tragic history of the city that went from thriving Bohemian capital of art, music, and literature to part of the Iron Curtain after WWII. Some of my favorite gems here include the fantastic black light theater shows in 4D and the one-of-a-kind medieval dinner show in an old tavern complete with musicians and jugglers not to mention hearty food and drinks. During the weekends it heaves with people enjoying the bars, cheap beer, and delicious food so try to visit during the week (and in the spring or fall) to beat the crowds.

8. Relax on the French Riviera

Here, you can pretend to live the high life for a little bit. Have fun in the sun, relax on the beach, swim in azure blue water, hobnob with the rich and famous, and sail on (or gaze at) gigantic yachts. As for cities, Nice is nice with its palm-tree-lined promenade, old town, and many art museums. If you want to go see how the rich and famous live, spend an afternoon checking out Cannes to soak up some glamorous vibes on La Croisette where they hold the famous Cannes Film Festival. The kingdom of Monaco with its tiny streets, beautiful buildings, and world-famous casino is just a skip away too.

9. Enjoy the great outdoors in Interlaken

Located in the beautiful mountains of Switzerland, Interlaken is a gorgeous place to unwind with fantastic hiking, delicious hot chocolate, and plenty of outdoor sports. The area is full of natural attractions to explore, including the St. Beatus Caves (complete with a legendary dragon), the cascading 500-meter-high (1,640 feet) Giessbach Waterfalls, the Jungfraujoch mountain railway (which leads to the highest train station on the continent), and a plethora of lakes (hence the town’s name). It’s a good alternative to all the cities and museums. Interlaken is also a popular party destination for backpackers and other young travelers. By far, my favorite scenic and visually stunning trail was the Oberberghorn panoramic hike, where you can wander the green mountain ridge ogling the amazing views and the turquoise-blue Brienzersee.

10. Experience history in Rome

In this thriving historical city, you can’t walk two feet without stumbling over a ruin, making Rome a history buff’s dream. Its tiny streets are perfect for wandering as you explore the Colosseum, see the Forum and Palatine Hill, visit the Pantheon, spend time in Vatican City, admire the Spanish Steps, and toss coins into the famous Trevi Fountain. The skip-the-line tickets can definitely be worth it so you don’t waste time waiting outside attractions. Rome also has amazing food (it’s Italy, after all) and nightlife. Visit the Trastevere area for a taste of “local” Rome and chill bars. It’s my favorite area in the city because you feel like you’re in a small village in the middle of a big city.

11. Hike around the Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is my favorite part of Italy. These five beautiful cliffside towns are perched near warm waters and beautiful olive and grape groves. There are wondrous and strenuous hikes in these hills; for a real challenge, take trail #8. Or just walk the coastline for something less difficult. Many activities here revolve around the coastline: kayaking, swimming, having a beach picnic or visiting the Technical Naval Museum. If you happen to be here in December or January, don’t miss the Nativity Manarola, the world’s biggest lighted nativity scene.

12. Tour Krakow

Krakow looks like it stepped out of a medieval postcard. It’s a hip, trendy, and youthful city that’s the center of education in Poland, meaning there are a lot of university students here. Most travelers come to party here (the vodka is cheap) but try to enjoy the city’s history and food besides just the bars. Walk the Royal Road through the Old Town to the 13th-century Wawel Castle, tour Schindler’s Factory (where Schindler saved over 1,200 Jews during World War II), and visit the sobering Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp. You can also take a fascinating day trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Wieliczka Salt Mine, a 13th-century mine with cavernous chambers, statues, chapels, chandeliers, and cathedrals all carved out of salt.

13. Visit the ruin bars in Budapest

The coolest nightlife in all of Europe is found in Budapest . Built in abandoned buildings, ruin bars feature funky art installations, repurposed furniture, and quirky decor. They are amazing, fun, and great places to meet locals, as people of all ages flock here. Open since 2001, Szimpla Kert is the original ruin bar and one of my favorites, along with Instant-Fogas Complex, which takes up an entire building and is actually many different bars in one. Don’t skip the ruin bars — they’re one of the most unique things about the city!

14. Explore Cornwall

The best part of England is outside London, yet unfortunately, not a lot of travelers leave London. Head west to the area of Cornwall for cheaper prices, welcoming locals, natural beauty, great hiking, rolling hills, plenty of medieval castles, and picturesque small towns. If you like biking, the Camel Trail from Bodmin to Padstow is worth the trip and you even pass by a local vineyard. It’s an easy way to spend a day (and it’s pretty flat so it’s not too hard to do.) Plus, I had the best fish and chips in Cornwall! Overall, it’s what you think of as “traditional England.”

15. Walk the Camino

El Camino de Santiago (The Way of Saint James) is an ancient pilgrimage route that stretches from France all the way across northern Spain. It is a 500 mile (800 km) trail that winds through incredible terrain, ending in Santiago de Compostela at the cathedral where St. James is supposedly buried. As a pilgrim, you get a “pilgrim’s passport” which allows you to stay in affordable pilgrim-only hostels, making this a surprisingly budget-friendly adventure. While it usually takes over a month to complete, you can just walk a section if you don’t have the time. To receive a “Compostela” (certificate of completion), you just need to walk the last 62 miles (100 km), which generally takes 4-5 days.

16. Throw tomatoes during La Tomatina

By far my favorite festival, the largest food fight in the world happens during the last Wednesday of August in Bunol, Spain. What started in 1945 as a local brawl has turned into a massive event drawing tens of thousands of people from all over the world. For about an hour, everyone throws tomatoes at each other, leaving streets ankle-deep in tomato juice. Afterward, everyone walks down to the river, cleans off, and then heads to the town square for sangria and music.

17. Find Dracula in Romania

Not a lot of people visit Romania but this underrated country in Eastern Europe has undiscovered yet picturesque medieval towns like Brasov (home to “Dracula’s castle”), Sighisoara, and Sibiu; gorgeous beaches on the Black Sea; and incredible hiking in the Fagaras Mountains — all at dirt-cheap prices. Other major sights include frescoed Byzantine monasteries, the steepled wooden churches of Transylvania, the hip university town Cluj-Napoca, the post-communist capital of Bucharest, and the Danube Delta, a huge nature reserve.

18. Drink whisky in Islay

Whisky has a long history on Islay , an island off Scotland’s west coast. It’s been made there since the 16th-century — first in backyards and then, starting in the 19th-century, in large distilleries. Over the years, whisky from the island came to be considered a specialty and was used to flavor a lot of other blends on the mainland. There are currently nine working distilleries on the island, all located along the island’s shores, with Laphroaig, Ardbeg, and Lagavulin being the most famous. Most distilleries here make single-malt Scotch, meaning that only one type of grain (barley) is used. My visit here was amazing and, even if you don’t like whisky, there are tons of good hikes and walks throughout this magnificent island.

19. Explore Iceland

Iceland is a magical country with majestic waterfalls, hidden hot springs around every corner, and sweeping vistas unlike anywhere else in the world. After my first visit, the country quickly became one of my favorite countries. With whale watching in the summer, the northern lights in the winter, and geothermal baths for soaking in year-round, there really is no bad time to visit! While Iceland’s main draw is the epic natural landscapes, it’s worth spending a couple of days in Reykjavik with its café culture, artsy feel, and brightly colored wooden row houses.

20. Sail the Croatian coast

With calm winds, short distances, a coastline littered with over 1,000 islands, and countless historical sites, Croatia is one of the world’s best sailing destinations. If you can, go during the shoulder season when you can find some great deals. Plan to stay at least a couple of days on one of the islands, with the most popular being Brac, Hvar, Krk, Cres, and Lošinj. However, don’t be afraid to get off the beaten path and explore some of the lesser-known islands such as Silba, Vis, and Lastovo. If you want to splash out and spend a week partying on a yacht, check out The Yacht Week, which hosts week-long parties, complete with DJs, from May-September. You can book a full boat to share with friends or just a cabin if you’re traveling solo. Prices start at 5,250 HRK per person and go up to 9,300 HRK.

21. Explore the Balkans

While the Balkans have become more popular with backpackers in recent years, it’s still largely overlooked by most budget travelers, despite being an extremely budget-friendly region. The Balkan peninsula is home to great (and again, overlooked) wine, beautiful medieval towns like Kotor and Mostar, stunning mountainous landscapes, beautiful pebble beaches, coffee culture, fresh, hearty yet inexpensive food, and museums covering the area’s history, including the most recent turbulent events of the early 1990s. I especially loved my time in Albania . Don’t miss the beautiful beaches in Ksamil, nicknamed the “Maldives of Europe’ as well as the mountain village of Gjirokastër, which was occupied by Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans. The Balkans have so much to offer for every budget and every country has its unique cultural flavor.

22. Take a wine tour in the Loire Valley

Located in central France, the picturesque Loire Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site and stretches 280 kilometers (174 miles) along the Loire River. One of the major wine-producing regions of France, the area is home to some of the best wines in the world, with over 1,000 vineyards open to the public. Even those who don’t drink wine will enjoy the beautiful small towns, great food, and the region’s over 300 impressive chateaux. I loved the medieval Chenonceau Castle and Chateau Villandry and the small villages like Saint-Florent-le-Vieil. Spring and Autumn are my favorite times to visit because you can go biking and do outdoor activities when it’s not too hot and there are fewer people. It’s an area not to be missed.

23. See Fado in Portugal

Fado is an important musical tradition in Portugal , originating in Lisbon and stretching back some 200 years. The word “fado” likely stems from the Latin word for fate, and it’s very haunting, poetic, and emotional music. Most of the songs follow themes of loss and mourning, and the music was popular with the working class (especially sailors). Performances normally take place in restaurants during dinner. In Lisbon, head to Clube de Fado, Tasca do Chico, Parreirinha de Alfama, or Senhor Vinho.

24. Tour green Slovenia

Slovenia is one of Europe’s least-visited destinations, which is mind-blowing to me because it’s an amazing place to visit. Slovenia offers all the beauty of Western Europe but at a fraction of the cost and with a fraction of the crowds. Perfect for outdoor adventure lovers, Slovenia offers rugged mountains, untouched landscapes, fantastic ski resorts, plentiful wine, sprawling cave systems, incredible food, and postcard-perfect lakes, such as the famous Lake Bled with its castle on an island. I loved Piran, Slovenia’s often overlooked coastal Venetian-style harbor town that was actually founded 3000 years ago. Stroll around its beautiful windy cobble-stoned streets, beautiful plazas, and take advantage of the many affordable restaurants right on the water. Make sure to also spend a few days in the country’s capital, Ljubljana, known as one of the continent’s greenest and most livable cities. Take a river cruise to see the city and enjoy the friendliness of the locals.

  For more information on specific countries in Europe, check out the guides below:

• Albania Travel Guide
• Austria Travel Guide
• Belgium Travel Guide
• Belarus Travel Guide
• Bosnia & Herzegovina Travel Guide
• Bulgaria Travel Guide
• Czechia Travel Guide
• Croatia Travel Guide
• Denmark Travel Guide
• England Travel Guide
• Estonia Travel Guide
• Finland Travel Guide
• France Travel Guide
• Germany Travel Guide
• Greece Travel Guide
• Hungary Travel Guide
• Iceland Travel Guide
• Ireland Travel Guide
• Italy Travel Guide
• Latvia Travel Guide
• Lithuania Travel Guide
• Malta Travel Guide
• Moldova Travel Guide
• Montenegro Travel Guide
• Netherlands Travel Guide
• Norway Travel Guide
• Portugal Travel Guide
• Poland Travel Guide
• Romania Travel Guide
• Scotland Travel Guide
• Slovakia Travel Guide
• Slovenia Travel Guide
• Spain Travel Guide
• Sweden Travel Guide
• Switzerland Travel Guide
• Ukraine Travel Guide

Europe Travel Costs

Accommodation – Accommodation prices vary greatly by region. In Western Europe, hostel dorm rooms cost between 25-45 EUR per night, depending on the room’s size and the popularity of the hostel. I stayed in a 6-bed dorm in Berlin for 20 EUR, while the same one would have cost me around 45 EUR in Paris. A room in Paris costs on the higher end and a room in cheaper Athens costs on the lower end.

In Eastern Europe, hostel dorm rooms cost between 10-15 EUR per night depending on the size of the dorm room and the popularity of the hostel. The further east you go, the cheaper it gets. Expect to pay around 30-60 EUR per night for a private room that sleeps two.

In Scandinavia, hostel dorm beds cost around 25-45 EUR, while private rooms are 65-80 EUR. Budget hotels start around 85 EUR.

Most accommodations offer free linens, free Wi-Fi, and a lot offer free breakfast, but it’s important to check specific websites for exact amenities.

Campsites cost between 10-15 EUR per night for a basic plot for two without electricity.

Food – Food traditions in Europe run deep, stretching back centuries to become integral parts of each country’s culture. From baguettes in France to tapas in Spain, from hearty Eastern European stews and goulash to the fresh vegetables and olive oils of the Mediterranean, European cuisine varies as much as the countries themselves. Food prices differ greatly across the continent, so check individual country guides for specifics.

But no matter where you are, even in the more expensive countries, finding places to eat within your budget is easier than you might think. Throughout Western Europe, you can find small shops, street food stalls, or food trucks where you can get sandwiches, gyros, kebabs, slices of pizza, or sausages for between 3-7 EUR. These shops are most often found in train stations, bus stations, and main pedestrian areas, and offer cheap food alternatives that can have you eating on 12-17 EUR per day. Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 7-10 EUR for a combo meal.

Turkish, Middle Eastern, and Vietnamese eateries abound in Germany, while Indian food is incredible and everywhere in the United Kingdom. Meals at these restaurants usually cost between 8-12 EUR.

Restaurant meals in casual, traditional eateries generally cost around 13-25 EUR for a main dish and drink. Food is much cheaper in the east than in the west, and in the west, northern regions like Scandinavia and the UK are more expensive than southern countries like Spain, Portugal, and Italy.

In Eastern Europe, even if you are eating out for all your meals, you can still get by on a food budget of as little as 15 EUR per day.

For drinks, a pint of beer is 2-5 EUR, a glass of wine is 2-7 EUR, a cappuccino is 2-5 EUR, and cocktails range from 6-14 EUR.

If you eat out, do so at lunch and get the prix-fixe menu (two-course or three-course set menu). Restaurants offer this set menu during lunch, and with prices between 10-20 EUR, it’s a way better deal than the regular dinner menu. You can also get affordable lunches at outdoor markets. So many European cities have huge fresh food markets throughout town.

You can cook your own food for around 45-65 EUR per week. This gets you basic staples like rice, pasta, seasonal produce, bread, and some meat. You can save money by shopping at discount supermarkets like Profi, Lidl, Aldi, and Penny Market.

If you want to save big money on meals, head to one of the markets, pick up some cheese, wine, bread, meats, or anything else, and go to the park for a picnic. (Or grab a sandwich for later!) You’ll find the locals doing the same thing, and it’s one of the cheaper ways to get a true taste of local food.

Backpacking Europe Suggested Budgets

Prices for travel in Europe vary greatly depending on how far north, east, south, or west you travel. If you stick to the budget accommodations, food, and tours listed here and use all my tips on saving money, you need about 65-110 EUR per day in Western Europe, 40-50 EUR in Eastern Europe, and about 85-130 EUR in Scandinavia.

Those numbers reflect a traveler who stays in hostels, cooks some meals and eats out cheaply, enjoys a few drinks, and sticks to free and cheap activities like hiking, walking tours, and enjoying nature. This is your typical backpacker budget. You aren’t going to have a fancy time, but you aren’t going to want for anything either.

However, by getting tourist cards and rail passes, avoiding flights, occasionally Couchsurfing or camping, cooking all your meals, and not drinking, you can travel a lot cheaper. On this budget, you could do Western Europe on 35-45 EUR per day, Eastern Europe on 20-25 EUR, and Scandinavia on 50-65 EUR. That would require you to take a train or a bus or hitchhike everywhere, skip most museums, and limit how often you go out.

Generally, the suggested daily budget for Europe is 80-120 EUR. You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need to budget daily. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Europe Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Individual country guides have more specific information on how to save money in them but here are some general tips on cutting your costs while you explore Europe:

• Picnic – This continent has a lot of little shops where you can buy pre-made sandwiches or ingredients to make your own. Many supermarkets have delis as well where you can get food to go. Buy some food, eat outside, and watch the city and its people go by. It’s a much more enjoyable and cheaper way to eat.
• Eat local and cheap – Not into picnicking? Eat at local sandwich shops, pizza parlors, Maoz, Wok to Walks, and outdoor street vendors. Avoiding restaurants and eating at a lot of the local “grab n’ go” places gives you a taste of the local cuisine at a much cheaper price. If you’re really on a budget, use your creative cooking skills to prepare meals at the hostel as well.
• Stay with a local – Hostels can add up really quickly. If you don’t have any friends with whom you can stay, consider using Couchsurfing , which connects you with locals who let you stay with them for free. Plus, they tend to also have meetups to meet other locals and travelers. It’s a great way to save on accommodation and meet a local who can share their insider tips and advice.
• Camp in a garden – A very good camping service specific to Europe is Campspace , which allows you to pitch a tent in someone’s backyard for free or for a small fee (around 10-20 EUR). All of the garden owners have profiles that tell you what services and facilities they offer. Also, many countries allow wild camping (like Sweden), which can save you a fortune if you have a tent.
• Take the bus – Budget bus companies like Flixbus can take you across the continent for cheap. I personally feel it’s best for day travel as sitting up for an overnight bus isn’t really ideal for sleeping. It isn’t glamorous, but with tickets starting at 5 EUR, you really can’t complain!
• Get a Rail Pass – Eurail Passes have saved me hundreds of dollars. If you are traveling far distances and through many countries, they are a great deal.
• Take the free city tours – One of the great things about Europe is that you can find free walking tours in all the major cities. They can be a great way to see the city attractions, take in some history, and learn your bearings without spending any money. Just make sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Plan accordingly – Plan your trip around Europe so you avoid doubling back. Transportation is a big expense so proper planning can save you a lot of money (and time). Go in a straight line or a loop. Booking your accommodation ahead helps you save as well since cheap, good places unsurprisingly get reserved first. One thing I’ve learned is that waiting until the last minute means you get stuck with expensive places or cheap places no one wants.
• Fly cheap – If you know where you are going and a train won’t do, try to book flights early. You can often get round trip fares for as little as 5 EUR from many of the European discount airlines like Ryanair or Wizz. Many capital cities have smaller airports farther from the city with ‘inconvenient’ times but cheaper fares. Keep in mind you might need to factor in an early morning Uber or taxi if the busses aren’t running and you have an early flight!
• Drink less – Those 5 EUR beers add up. Hit happy hours or pick and choose when you party. Hostel bars are a good place to get cheap drinks or buy your alcohol at the supermarket. Plus, in Europe, it’s legal to drink outside in parks, plazas, by the lakes or rivers. You’ll find you can save a lot of money by not going to bars and clubs. Partying your way across the continent will destroy your bank balance in no time.
• Get a city tourist card – Many local tourism offices sell a tourism card for all their attractions, tours, and restaurants. This card gives you free entry and substantial discounts on all the attractions and tours in a city, free local public transportation (a huge plus), and discounts at a few restaurants and shopping malls. They save a ton of money. If you plan on doing a lot of sightseeing, get one of these cards.
• Rideshare – If you’re flexible in your schedule, use the ridesharing service BlaBlaCar to catch rides with locals between cities (or countries) by paying a small fee. It’s like Airbnb but for rides. I used this service in Switzerland and, not only did I save a lot of money, but I got to meet interesting people and learn about local culture and life. Drivers are verified and it’s perfectly safe, though sometimes rides cancel at the last minute (which is why you need to be flexible). Check their ratings first and try to use rides where the person has done many trips.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water is safe to drink in most of Europe, so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.
• Get a HostelPass – HostelPass is a discount membership for hostels in Europe. Members get 10-20% off select hostels around Europe, as well as perks like free breakfast or free drinks. There are discounts on tours and activities too. It’s a great way to save money if you’re bouncing around Europe as they have hostels in 18 countries around the continent.

Where to Stay in Europe

Europe has a ton of budget accommodation options. The individual country and city guides have tons of recommendations but here’s a short list of some of my favorite budget hostels and hotels around Europe:

• The Flying Pig (Amsterdam, The Netherlands)
• Hotel 54 (Barcelona, Spain)
• Generator Hostel (Copenhagen, Denmark)
• Harcourt Hotel (Dublin, Ireland)
• Castle Rock (Edinburgh, Scotland)
• Ios Palm Pansion (Ios, Greece)
• Greg and Tom’s Party Hostel (Krakow, Poland)
• Largo da Sé Guest House (Lisbon, Portugal)
• Sophie’s Hostel (Prague, Czech Republic)
• The Yellow (Rome, Italy)
• City Backpackers (Stockholm, Sweden)

How to Get Around Europe

Public transportation – Transportation around most European cities is by tram, subway, or bus. Prices are typically around 2 EUR for a one-way ticket in Western Europe and closer to 1 EUR in Eastern Europe. Most large cities also have day passes available that offer unlimited public transportation. These passes are usually 5-12 EUR per day.

In large cities with international airports, there is usually a bus or train available that ferries travelers from the downtown core to the airport. Expect to pay around 5-15 EUR to get to/from the airport.

Bus – Buses are not quite as comfortable as Europe’s trains, although certain lines do have great amenities (like roomy seats and Wi-Fi). While buses are not the most efficient way to travel around the continent, they’re certainly dependable, reliable, and cheap. You can find last-minute rides for as little as 5 EUR. A route from Berlin to Munich is about 25 EUR, while Paris to Bordeaux can be as low as 10 EUR. Longer routes, like Amsterdam to Copenhagen, start at around 47 EUR.

Each country has its own national bus service, but some lines also take you long distances internationally. Megabus and Flixbus (which now owns Eurolines) are the most popular companies.

Train – Train travel is a great way to see Europe. Intercity train prices vary wildly from country to country, depending on whether you take the slow train or a high-speed train and how far in advance you book. For example, a high-speed train from Berlin to Munich costs around 38-60 EUR, Bordeaux to Paris is about 50-85 EUR, and Madrid to Barcelona ranges from 45-85 EUR. Non-high-speed trains and other intercity lines are a lot cheaper, generally costing about 40-50% of the price of high-speed trains. Eastern Europe inter-country trains usually cost between 45-100 EUR when the ticket is booked last minute. Short train rides of 2-3 hours within countries cost about 27 EUR.

To find routes and prices for trains around Europe, use Trainline .

You may also want to consider getting a Eurail Pass , which allows travelers to explore Europe by providing a set number of stops in a specific time period. These passes are continent-wide, country-specific, or regional. It can potentially save you hundreds of dollars.

Ridesharing/Car sharing – If your schedule is flexible, use a ridesharing service and catch rides with locals between cities (or countries). Drivers are verified and it’s perfectly safe. BlaBlaCar is the most popular.

If you’d rather rent a car yourself and find passengers to share a ride with, use Discover Cars to find the best car rental prices.

Flying – Budget airlines are so prolific that competition helps keep fares low. You can often find tickets where the fare is just 5 EUR round-trip! Companies like EasyJet, Ryanair, Wizz, and Vueling offer mind-blowingly cheap flights throughout Europe. Book at least a month early to scoop up great deals.

Make sure that the airport they fly into isn’t too far out of your way (transportation from the secondary airport sometimes negates the savings from using the budget airline itself).

Keep in mind that you’ll have to pay to check your baggage on these cheap flights. It costs about 25-39 EUR for one checked bag. If you wait to pay for your luggage at the gate, you end up paying almost double. Travel carry-on only to avoid this added cost.

Hitchhiking – Hitchhiking in Europe is very safe, but it’s not for everyone. Hitching is quite common around the continent and I’ve met a number of travelers who have done it (I, myself, traveled this way in Bulgaria and Iceland). Some countries are very supportive (Romania, Iceland, Germany) while others may be a bit more time-consuming (Italy, Spain). HitchWiki is the best website for hitchhiking info.

Here are my suggested articles for how to get around Europe:

• 7 Cheap Ways to Travel Across Europe
• Are Eurail Passes a Giant Scam or Do They Save You Money?
• The Ultimate Guide to Finding Cheap Flights

When to Go to Europe

There’s no wrong time to visit Europe. Peak season is summer, when Europe gets crowded and August is the time most European families are at the beach so everything becomes more crowded and expensive. But the overall atmosphere and weather are great during this time, so it’s still worth visiting during peak season (just book your accommodation in advance — especially in August). Keep in mind it’s much hotter in summer so if you like AC, be sure to check that your hostel or hotel has it before you book. You can expect the most crowds in Western Europe. For this reason, I feel summer is a great time to visit the Balkans and the Baltics because many people head to the beaches in Spain, France, Italy, Croatia, and Greece.

Shoulder season is spring and fall (April-May and September-October). It’s still warm during this time but there aren’t as many crowds and prices are cheaper. This is my favorite time to visit hotspot places like Spain, Croatia and Greece, where it’s still hot enough to swim in the sea but you have way more room on the beach. It’s also a good time to go hiking in the Alps in Germany, northern Italy, Slovenia and Switzerland because it’s cooler during the day so you’re much less sweaty on the mountain without shade. The weather is good, the crowds are smaller, and the prices lower.

Winter is from November to February but in much of Central Europe, it’s wet and cold until March or April. It gets cold, even as far south as it gets (like Greece). On the other hand, the Christmas season has Christmas markets and festivals galore! Even if it’s cold, this is a cultural tradition you can’t miss and why I love Europe in December. There is hot mulled wine, sweets, and plenty of hot snacks, which vary by country. One of my favorites is Prague because the Old Town Square is lit up with a gigantic tree with aromas of crispy cinnamon pastries and mulled wine. Berlin takes their Christmas markets very seriously, so there are around 80 different markets with special themes.

Winter is fantastic in Europe for skiing and snowboarding but it doesn’t have to break the bank if you plan carefully. While Switzerland and France are probably the most famous, they are also expensive, but there are plenty of budget winter options.

How to Stay Safe in Europe

Europe is very safe for backpacking and solo traveling, even if you’re traveling solo, and even as a solo female traveler. Violent crimes against tourists are very rare. In fact, some of the safest countries in the world are in Europe. (I wrote a whole article about how Europe is safe to visit right now .)

That said, there are scams and petty crimes you should watch out for, especially around popular tourist landmarks. The most important thing to be aware of is pickpockets in crowds and on public transportation. Zip your bags and don’t put your mobile phone in a jacket pocket where someone could quickly take it. This should be obvious but don’t flash your money to let everyone know you have a huge wad of cash.

When choosing a hostel, look for ones with lockers. It’s always a good idea to carry around a padlock or combination lock. Most hostels are safe and travelers respect each other and I’ve rarely seen things happen to people’s valuables. Nevertheless, I always think that prevention is better.

As anywhere, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). When at the bar, always keep an eye on your drink. Avoid walking home alone at night if you’re intoxicated.

For female travelers in particular, it’s always a good idea to have a bit of extra money on you just in case you need to take an Uber or taxi back by yourself so you don’t take unnecessary risks to save money. If you’re using apps to date people while traveling, please use common sense and meet in public places. Since I’m not a female traveler, please check out the numerous female bloggers who have first hand knowledge of this.

If you’re worried about scams, you can read about common travel scams to avoid here.

If you rent a vehicle, don’t leave any valuables in it overnight. Break-ins are rare, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Be aware that the UK drives on the left and that most rental cars in Europe will have manual transmissions unless you request otherwise.

When hiking, always bring water, sunscreen, and bandaids or foot plasters. There is nothing worse than being halfway up the mountain with a blister and nothing you can do about it!

Likewise, when at the coast, don’t forget not only to wear sunscreen! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen people get burnt to a crisp the first day. Be sure to check the weather before you depart and dress accordingly.

If you do experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary to loved ones so they know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Europe Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

GO DEEPER: Nomadic Matt’s In-Depth Budget Guide to Europe!

While I have a lot of free tips on Europe, I also wrote an entire book that goes into great detail on everything you need to plan a trip here on a budget! You’ll get suggested itineraries, budgets, even more ways to save money, my favorite restaurants, prices, practical information (i.e. phone numbers, websites, prices, safety advice, etc etc), and cultural tips.

I’ll give the insider view of Europe that I got from years of traveling and living here! The downloadable guide can be used on your Kindle, iPad, phone, or computer so you can have it with you when you go. Click here to learn more about my book on Europe!

Europe Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more tips for your trip? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Europe travel and continue planning your trip:

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News Release

Carlyle global credit to provide financing to big bus tours.

London, UK – Global investment firm Carlyle (NASDAQ: CG) today announced that its Global Credit platform has provided a one-stop shop financing package to support the growth of Big Bus Tours, the leading global provider of hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus tours, with more than 5 million customers annually. 

Big Bus Tours is the world’s largest operator of open-top sightseeing bus tours with operations across Europe, North America, the Middle East and Asia Pacific. The Company has expanded to more than 20 world famous city destinations where it provides a sightseeing experience which has become a key part of any traveler’s repertoire when discovering a new city. In 2023, the Company partnered with Equipmake, the engineering specialist, to convert a portion of its existing fleet from diesel to fully electric, demonstrating its continued commitment to sustainable tourism. Exponent, a leading European private equity firm, acquired Big Bus Tours in 2015.

Carlyle Global Credit manages $186 billion in assets under management, as of March 31, 2024. It regularly pursues investments in privately negotiated debt and capital solutions partnering with high-quality sponsors and leading family or entrepreneur-owned companies. 

Taj Sidhu, Head of Carlyle European and Asian Private Credit, said: “We are delighted to partner with the exceptional management team at Big Bus Tours, as the business continues to expand its industry leading offering across major worldwide destinations. This transaction underlines our ability to provide flexible capital solutions of scale and support the growth aspirations of strong and resilient businesses.”

Pat Waterman, Executive Chairman of Big Bus Tours, said: “Big Bus Tours is a leading experience provider in the tourism and leisure industry. Financing from Carlyle Global Credit will accelerate our international footprint expansion and our development in adjacent, synergistic activities. We are delighted to have the support of a sophisticated partner such as Carlyle as we enter this important next phase of growth.”  

Contact: 

Charlie Bristow

[email protected]

+44 7384 513568

About Carlyle

Carlyle (NASDAQ: CG) is a global investment firm with deep industry expertise that deploys private capital across three business segments: Global Private Equity, Global Credit and Global Investment Solutions. With $425 billion of assets under management as of March 31, 2024, Carlyle’s purpose is to invest wisely and create value on behalf of its investors, portfolio companies and the communities in which we live and invest. Carlyle employs more than 2,200 people in 28 offices across four continents. Further information is available at www.carlyle.com . Follow Carlyle on X @OneCarlyle and LinkedIn at The Carlyle Group.

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All the Taylor Swift events and parties happening in London for the Eras Tour

From drag brunches and quizzes to party buses and mini-golf, the capital is officially entering its Eras Tour era

Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour isn’t just any world tour. So far, it’s boosted economies by millions of pounds, created literal shockwaves and has spawned hundreds of spin-off parties in each and every city she’s performed in.

After stopping off in North and South America, Australia and parts of Europe, soon it will be London’s turn to host the Eras Tour . If you’re heading to the real thing and just want to warm up your vocal chords for ‘All Too Well (10 Minute Version) (Taylor’s Version)’ or you missed out on tickets but still want to get your Eras fix, here’s our comprehensive roundup of all the Swiftie shindigs happening across the city. 

RECOMMENDED: 🏡  You can stay in these official Taylor Swift Eras Tour-inspired Airbnbs in London . 🎤  Taylor Swift in the UK: Eras Tour timings, setlist and everything you need to know .

T aylor Swift events and parties in London

Taylor swift themed quiz at waterstones piccadilly.

Who does the red scarf belong to? What's Tay’s lucky number? Were these words written by Swift or Shakespeare? Put your Swiftie knowledge to the test at this quiz hosted by author Kat McKenna at Waterstones Piccadilly. Stick around after the quiz is over to take part in some friendship bracelet making. It’s happening on June 11 at 6.30pm. You can secure your place here . 

Swiftageddon

The OG of Taylor raves. In its own words, this clubnight is ‘dedicated to worshipping at the altar of Taylor Swift’ and has organised a bunch of pre-parties at Troxy ahead of the main event. It’ll start with a night dedicated to the songs of  Fearless, Speak Now  and  Red  on Friday, June 7 then pay homage to 1989 ,  Reputation, folklore  and  Lover  on Saturday, June 8, followed by  Debut, evermore, Midnights  and  The Tortured Poets Department  on June 15.  You can book your ticket here . 

Taylor Swift Drag Brunch at OXBO Bankside 

Die hard Swiftie Sofia Stardust will be polishing up real nice and hosting a one-off Taylor-themed bottomless drag brunch at OXBO Bankside on Saturday, June 29. Expect live renditions of Tay’s biggest hits, Eras-inspired desserts and cocktails and a game of Swiftie bingo with prizes.

Tickets start at £42 per person and can be booked on the OXBO website . 

Swiftie brunch and minigolf at Puttshack 

Score a hole in one while belting out ‘Anti-Hero’ at Puttshack’s brunch dedicated to all things Taylor on Sunday, June 23. Treat yourself to bottomless bubbly, beer and mocktails plus a round a mini-golf soundtracked by non-stop Swift and a performances from a few drag queen. Get yourself a spot here .  

Taylor Swift brunch at Ballie Ballerson

You know what they say: you can never have too many Taylor Swift brunches. This one actually happens every single Saturday, not just when the Eras tour is in town. As you dance to ‘Shake It Off’, ‘Love Story’ and ‘Cruel Summer’, you'll get to enjoy bottomless pizza, down unlimited drinks and, of course, dive into a gigantic ball pit. Reserve a spot over on the Ballie Ballerson site . 

Swiftie Tour with London Bar Bus

Scream Taylor’s most iconic lyrics over the streets on London on board this travelling rooftop bar. Every Friday and Saturday from June 1 to 22, Tootbus’ Bar Bus will be transformed into a Swiftie-mobile. There will be Eras-inspired drinks and cupcakes, plus a playlist that follows Taylor’s career from small country songwriter to huge global superstar. All aboard here . 

The Treehouse Era at Treehouse Hotel London

If you're still after somewhere to stay for your Eras experience, why not go the whole hog and book an entire Taylor Swift package at the Treehouse Hotel. For the nights of June 21-23 and August 15-20, the hotel is offering Swifties a package that includes transfers to and from the concert, a selection of friendship bracelets and tinted glasses, plus a £30 food and beverage credit so you can get breakfast at midnight post gig. 

Tempted? The offers starts at £445 per room and you can book here . 

Club de Fromage Afterparty

Head to the O2 Academy in Islington on June 22 and/or August 17 for an unofficial Eras afterparty. As per the cheesy clubnight’s normal offering, you can expect confetti cannons, balloons, hula hooping and deafening singalongs to all of Taylor's greatest hits. Book here . 

Heaven Afterparty 

If three hours of back to back Taylor on the Eras tour just isn’t long enough for you, try five hours at Heaven’s Eras Afterparty on June 23. Tickets start at just £5 . 

Eras fever  

If that wasn’t enough Taylor for you, we’ve got plenty more. Check out London’s  Taylor Swift walking tours , these Taylor-inspired Airbnbs , the south London pub featured on her latest album and all the other spots in that capital that  have been referenced in her songs . Plus, here’s our ultimate guide to the UK leg of the Eras Tour . 

ICYMI:   The World Naked Bike Ride returns to London this weekend .

Plus:   A huge Yayoi Kusama pumpkin is coming to the Serpentine .

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• Amy Houghton Contributing writer

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