How to plan a multi-country European vacation
Everything you need to know for the perfect trip to Europe
Are you dreaming of a multi-country European vacation? With so many incredible countries to explore, planning a trip to Europe can be overwhelming. But don’t worry - with a little bit of planning and research, you can create an unforgettable experience that allows you to see all the best places and make the most of your time and money. In this blog post, we’ll provide helpful tips and advice on how to plan a multi-country European vacation.
Choose your countries
When planning a multi-country European vacation, it's important to decide which countries you want to visit. Start by researching your desired destinations. Think about your interests and which experiences you want to have. Make sure to pick countries that are close together, so you don't spend too much time traveling between them. Consider taking a look at travel websites such as TripAdvisor or Lonely Planet to find out more about the places you're interested in. You can also take advantage of flight search engines like Skyscanner to compare prices between different countries. Once you've narrowed down your choices, create an itinerary and start planning!
Decide on your travel style
Do you want to explore a few cities or would you like to explore the countryside? Do you prefer luxury or budget travel? Answering these questions will help you decide on the best way to experience your European vacation.
If you want to cover a lot of ground, then consider using a service like Eurail to get around. It is an affordable way to get to different cities without having to book separate train tickets each time. If you prefer to relax and go with the flow, then you might want to hire a car and explore the countryside at your own pace.
If luxury is more your style, look into booking a package tour that includes accommodation, transportation, and sightseeing. Or if budget is your priority, you can look for individual accommodation deals online and use public transport to save money.
Whichever way you choose to explore Europe, make sure it fits with your travel style. That way, you can maximize your vacation and get the most out of the experience.
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Set a budget
Creating a budget is essential for any trip, especially when traveling to multiple countries in Europe. Planning ahead and understanding how much you can afford to spend in each country can save you a lot of stress during your vacation. Start by calculating how much you can afford to spend overall, then break it down into separate budgets for each country you're visiting.
Be sure to factor in costs for lodging, flights, transportation, food, entertainment, and any other expenses you may incur during your trip. Consider taking advantage of budget-friendly travel services such as Airbnb or Couchsurfing for accommodation, or carpooling services like BlaBlaCar for transport. Doing so can help you stick to your budget and get the most out of your European vacation.
Book your flights
When it comes to booking flights for your multi-country European vacation, the key is to plan ahead. Book as far in advance as possible and be flexible with dates. You should also compare prices across different airlines, as well as between direct and indirect flights. It's often cheaper to book multiple separate flights than a single return ticket.
It's also a good idea to sign up for email alerts from flight comparison websites like Skyscanner and Google Flights. This way, you can keep an eye on the latest flight deals.
We’ve also partner with Kiwi.com to bring you a brilliant Flight Finder that compares hundreds of tickets and airlines to provide you with the best deal.
When you're ready to book your flights, look into rewards programs to get the best value for your money. Some airlines offer discounts when you collect points on their loyalty program. Alternatively, you can use a travel credit card to earn points or discounts on airline tickets.
Book car hire or airport transfers
Organising a hire car or airport transfer for your European vacation is a great way to explore different countries without the hassle of public transport. Consider looking for companies that offer multi-country deals, so you can pick up and drop off your car in multiple locations.
You can also check for online deals on airport transfers – many companies offer discounts for pre-booking. Additionally, ride-sharing services such as Uber are available in some major cities. If you’re looking for an eco-friendly option, look for services offering electric vehicles or bicycles. With the right planning, you can get the most out of your European vacation.
You can also use our car hire comparison service to seek the best European care hire deals!
Arrange your accommodation
Once you've chosen your countries, it's time to plan where you'll be staying. You have several options when it comes to accommodation in Europe, from hostels and budget hotels to Airbnbs and luxury resorts. Think about what type of experience you're looking for, and what fits into your budget.
For a cost-effective option, consider hostels. They often provide shared dorm rooms and private rooms, with the added bonus of meeting fellow travelers and locals. Alternatively, if you're looking for a more comfortable stay, you could look into hotel chains or Airbnbs.
You could also try out house swapping services such as Love Home Swap or Home Exchange, which let you swap homes with other travelers for free. If you prefer a unique experience, book through websites such as Boutique Homes, where you can find interesting properties that are not available on traditional travel sites. Finally, if money is no object, you can always book a luxurious resort for a truly indulgent stay.
Book your travel experiences and tickets
Planning a multi-country vacation in Europe can be daunting, but don’t let that stop you! Taking the time to research and book experiences and tickets for your trip is an essential part of planning. Many attractions offer discounted entry when booked online in advance.
For museum visits, find out what's on and book timed tickets or even take a guided tour to make the most of your time there. Consider hiring a bike for a day and explore the city you’re visiting. Also look into booking experiences like cooking classes or a hot air balloon ride.
If you’re traveling between multiple countries, check if there are any travel passes that could save you money, such as Eurail passes. Other sites such as Viator and GetYourGuide offer deals on tours, activities and events in cities around the world. So why not make the most of your trip by booking some fun experiences in advance?
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Get travel insurance
Traveling to multiple countries in Europe can be an exciting experience, but it’s also important to protect yourself and your belongings. That’s why you should invest in travel insurance to provide coverage for lost or stolen luggage, medical emergencies, and other unexpected issues.
Research different companies to find the policy that offers the best coverage for your trip. Some of the most reliable travel insurance companies include World Nomads, AXA Travel Insurance, and Allianz Global Assistance. Make sure to read the fine print and know exactly what’s covered before you purchase your policy.
Apply for visas
If you're planning a multi-country trip in Europe, you'll likely need to apply for visas. It's important to do this well in advance as the processing time can be lengthy. Make sure you research the visa requirements for each country you intend to visit and submit your application as early as possible.
For assistance with visa applications, consider using a service such as iVisa or VisaCentral. These services make the process easier by providing helpful resources and guidance. They also offer additional services such as document review and expedited processing. With their help, you can obtain your visa quickly and securely, giving you one less thing to worry about before your trip.
Pack your bags
When it comes to packing for a multi-country European vacation, you need to be prepared for anything. Consider packing clothing and other items that can easily be layered or combined to suit different temperatures and climates.
You should also make sure that you have enough of your toiletries, prescription medications and any other medical supplies you may need. A travel-sized first aid kit is always a good idea too.
Make sure that you check the airline’s baggage allowances before you leave, so you know exactly how many bags you can bring and what their size and weight limits are. Additionally, consider investing in a quality luggage set that offers a durable build and helpful features like wheeled suitcases. That way, your belongings will remain safe and secure during your travels.
Enjoy your trip!
Congratulations! You have made it through all the hard work of planning a multi-country European vacation and now it's time to reap the rewards. No matter what type of trip you've chosen for yourself, make sure to savor every moment.
Enjoy the sights, sounds, tastes, and smells of each destination, and take lots of pictures to help you remember your adventure. Be sure to explore off the beaten path and discover hidden gems that will be special to you. Appreciate the cultural differences and traditions of each country, and above all else, have fun. Now go out there and enjoy your once-in-a-lifetime trip!
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