5 Must-Know Tips for Planning a European Vacation

Planning a trip to Europe? Here’s how to do it right—from a travel advisor who helps clients do it every day.

There’s something truly magical about Europe. Whether you’re dreaming of strolling through the streets of Paris, cruising the canals of Venice, or soaking up the sun on the Amalfi Coast, a European vacation offers timeless charm, rich history, and unforgettable experiences. But planning one? That can get overwhelming—fast.

As a travel advisor who helps clients craft European getaways every year, I’ve learned what makes a trip smooth, memorable, and worth every penny. While every itinerary I design is unique, here are five essential tips I always keep in mind when planning any European vacation:

1. Don’t Try to Do Too Much

Europe is full of bucket-list destinations—and it’s tempting to squeeze them all into one trip. But trust me, less is more. Instead of hopping from country to country every other day, focus on 1–2 regions or cities that really excite you and spend more time there. You’ll enjoy a deeper experience, avoid travel fatigue, and have time to soak in the culture instead of racing through it.

2. Know the Best Time to Go

Summer in Europe sounds dreamy, but it’s also the most crowded and expensive time to travel. For fewer crowds and better rates, consider traveling in the shoulder seasons—May, early June, September, or early October. Not only is the weather still pleasant, but you’ll also have a more authentic experience with fewer crowds and long lines.

3. Transportation Isn’t One-Size-Fits-All

Trains, planes, rental cars, ferries… Getting around in Europe can be part of the adventure, but it’s important to know what works best where. In some countries, high-speed trains are efficient and scenic. In others, renting a car might offer more flexibility—especially in rural areas like Tuscany or Provence.

✨ For added convenience and ease, many of my clients choose to include private transportation in their package—think airport pickups, private drivers for day tours, or point-to-point transfers between cities. It takes the guesswork out of getting around and allows for a more comfortable, stress-free experience.

4. Consider Staying in Fewer Hotels

Packing up and moving every day or two can eat into your travel time and energy. I often recommend hub-and-spoke style itineraries—staying in one central city and taking day trips from there. For example, basing yourself in Florence and visiting Pisa, Siena, and the Chianti region. It’s more relaxing, and you won’t spend your whole trip living out of a suitcase.

5. Work With a Travel Advisor (Hi, That’s Me!)

From boutique hotels to private tours and custom itinerary planning, a travel advisor helps you skip the overwhelm and get straight to the fun part. I work with trusted suppliers across Europe and have firsthand experience booking everything from romantic Paris getaways to multi-city family adventures.

Working with a professional not only saves time but often results in better value and peace of mind. I’m here to make sure every detail is taken care of—before, during, and after your trip.

Ready to Plan Your Dream European Vacation?

I’d love to help make it happen. Whether you're planning ahead for 2025 or thinking of a spontaneous spring escape, let’s chat about your vision—and I’ll take care of the details.

📩 Reach out today for a personalized consultation!