[COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE] Self-Guided European Travel Tips from A to Z

General Overview of Europe

Geographical Location

Europe is located in the extreme western part of the Eurasian continent, covering over 10 million square kilometers, making it the world's second-smallest continent, only larger than Oceania. Geographically, Europe is bordered by the Ural Mountains to the east, the Atlantic Ocean to the west, the Mediterranean Sea to the south, and the Arctic Ocean to the north.

As of now, Europe comprises 44 independent nations and several autonomous regions with undefined status. Due to its clear geographical segmentation, the continent is divided into Eastern, Western, Southern, and Northern Europe, with countries grouped into specific regions as follows:

• Eastern Europe includes: Bulgaria, Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Belarus, Romania, Moldova…
• Western Europe includes: Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Monaco, Netherlands, Switzerland.
• Southern Europe includes: Italy, Spain, Portugal, Greece, Croatia, Serbia, Cyprus, Vatican…
• Northern Europe includes: Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia…

Europe is vast, so identifying the specific region of your desired destination will help you better plan your route and create the most efficient travel itinerary between countries and areas.

Weather Characteristics

Given its distinct geographical divisions, Europe's climate zones and weather patterns are clearly differentiated into four characteristic types:

• Temperate - Continental Climate: Predominant in Eastern Europe, featuring hot, humid summers with occasional rain and dry, snowy winters.
• Temperate - Oceanic Climate: Common in Western Europe, characterized by cool summers, heavy rainfall, cloudy skies, and fog year-round. Winters are relatively mild with occasional snow.
• Polar and Subpolar Climate: Found in the northernmost regions of Northern Europe, with low average rainfall and freezing temperatures throughout the year.
• Subtropical - Mediterranean Climate: Typical in Southern Europe, marked by hot, dry summers and warm, rainy winters.

How many time zones does Europe have?

The European Union generally follows Central European Time (CET), divided into summer and winter time. Specifically, during summer, starting from the last Sunday of March, Europe operates on UTC +1, which is 6 hours behind Vietnam. In winter, starting from the last Sunday of October, Europe shifts to UTC +2, 7 hours behind Vietnam. For example, if it is 12 PM in Vietnam, it would be 6 AM or 5 AM in Europe, depending on the season.

In addition to the general time zone of the European Union, each country and territory in Europe also maintains its own specific time zone:

• Azores Time Zone: UTC-1.
• Western European Time/Greenwich Mean Time/Ireland Time Zone: UTC+0.
• Central European Time: UTC+1.
• Kaliningrad Time Zone: UTC+2.
• Eastern European Time: UTC+2.
• Further Eastern European Time/Moscow Time Zone: UTC+3.

Based on self-guided travel experiences in Europe, the time zone varies depending on the country and region. Before finalizing your itinerary, travelers should verify the exact time of their destination to prepare in advance, avoiding health issues and jetlag, especially for the elderly and young children.

When is the best time to visit Europe?

Europe's weather features four distinct seasons, each with its unique climate. Travelers can enjoy breathtaking landscapes at almost any time of the year.

Spring

• Timeframe: March to May.
• Characteristics: Cool weather with average temperatures ranging from 6 to 20 degrees.

Despite the diverse climate zones, spring in Europe generally offers pleasant temperatures, minimal rainfall, cool breezes, and mild sunshine. This season is considered the ideal time to travel and immerse yourself in Europe's vibrant flower fields and colorful festivals.

Based on self-guided travel experiences in Europe during spring, visitors can explore the famous Tulip Festival in Amsterdam, Netherlands, the Carnival of Venice in Italy, the Sechseläuten Spring Festival in Switzerland, or experience Germany's Walpurgis Night Festival, which symbolizes driving away evil and welcoming luck and the new spring.

For those who adore romance, don’t miss the ILe de la Cité flower market, street festivals, and spring celebrations held along the picturesque Seine River in Paris, France.

Tips for traveling to Europe in spring (Photo: @amsterdam.explores)

Summer

• Timeframe: June to August.
• Characteristics: Pleasant weather with average temperatures ranging from 20 to over 30 degrees.

Depending on the region, the weather can range from warm sunshine to intense heat.

Visiting Europe in summer offers travelers the chance to enjoy blue seas, white sands, and participate in thrilling activities like scuba diving, surfing, or sailing.

Tips for traveling to Europe in summer (Photo: @beautiful_santorini_)

Autumn

• Timeframe: September to November.
• Characteristics: Cool weather with average temperatures ranging from 17 to 29 degrees.

Autumn is the perfect time to experience a poetic and romantic Europe, as the continent transforms with golden and red hues from the trees. This creates a uniquely unforgettable landscape amidst the crisp, cool air.

Alongside spring, autumn is also considered an ideal time to visit the "Old Continent," offering experiences like strolling along the leaf-covered Le Marais streets in France, watching the sunset over the Thames River and Big Ben in England, or immersing yourself in the golden autumn melodies by the Salzach River in Austria.

Tips for traveling to Europe in autumn (Photo: @when.in.amsterdam)

Winter

• Timeframe: December to February.
• Characteristics: Cold weather with average temperatures ranging from -20 to over 13 degrees.

Based on travel experiences, winter in Europe is the perfect time to witness villages and ancient castles blanketed in pristine snow.

When visiting Europe during this season, don’t miss out on skiing adventures or joining the magical Christmas light festival in Strasbourg, or relaxing in Iceland’s hot spring festivals.

Tips for traveling to Europe in winter (Photo: @vacations)

What to prepare when traveling to Europe?

Schengen Visa Application

The first prerequisite when planning a self-guided trip to Europe is obtaining a visa. Currently, the Schengen tourist visa is the most widely used entry permit. It serves as a "golden ticket" allowing entry to 27 European Union countries, including Germany, Austria, Italy, Greece, Switzerland, France, Denmark, Finland, and more.

European Visa, Schengen Visa (Photo: @duchien)

With a Schengen visa, you only need to enter one country and can then freely travel to the remaining 26 nations. The required documents for this visa typically include:

• Visa application form from the Embassy.
• Passport valid for at least 6 months with a minimum of 2 blank pages.
• of national ID card.
• Passport-sized photo ( x 4.5 cm).
• Proof of financial status and employment.
• Proof of residence and household registration.
• Travel itinerary, round-trip flight tickets, hotel booking confirmation…
• Travel medical insurance.

To apply for a Schengen visa in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, travelers can submit their applications at the following visa centers:

- Hanoi

• VFS Visa Application Center: Room 207, 2nd Floor, Ocean Park Building, 1 Dao Duy Anh, Dong Da District, Hanoi.
• TLSContact Visa Application Center: 17th Floor, Capital Tower, 109 Tran Hung Dao, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi.
• BLS International Visa Application Center: 13th Floor, Hoa Binh Building, 106 Hoang Quoc Viet, Cau Giay District, Hanoi.

- Ho Chi Minh City

• VFS Visa Application Center: 3B Floor, REE Tower, 9 Doan Van Bo, Ward 12, District 4, Ho Chi Minh City.
• TLSContact Visa Application Center: 12A Floor, Vincom Center, 72 Le Thanh Ton, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.
• BLS International Visa Application Center: 4th Floor, AB Office Building, 25A Nguyen Van Nguyen, Tan Dinh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.

Currently, Schengen visas are categorized into types A, C, and D, allowing a maximum stay of 90 days within a 6-month period. The number of entries permitted with these visas typically ranges from 1 to 2, depending on the specific visa type.

The Schengen visa approval process usually takes around 15 to 20 days based on self-guided travel experiences. However, the waiting period can extend up to 2 months during peak seasons or if there are document-related issues. To ensure convenience and receive comprehensive guidance, travelers can opt for European visa services provided by travel agencies to save time and increase approval chances.

European Currency

Europe currently has 29 currencies in circulation across nearly 50 countries and territories. However, the Euro is the most widely used common currency, accepted in around 25 countries. The Euro (EUR), symbolized as “€”, is available in both paper and coin forms with various denominations.

• According to the current exchange rate, 1 Euro = 26,800 VND.

Euro coins come in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 cents, €1, and €2. The front side of these coins typically features a uniform design with the denomination number, while the back side showcases unique patterns and motifs.

European Euro Coins

Euro banknotes are available in denominations of €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, and €500. Each note is designed to reflect the architectural styles of different historical periods, with the reverse side symbolizing the unity of European Union member states.

European Euro Banknotes

Based on self-guided travel experiences in Europe, besides major banks like Vietcombank, BIDV, and Techcombank, travelers can easily exchange Euros at reputable exchange centers such as:

• Hanoi: 27, 31, 57 Ha Trung, Hang Bong, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi;
• Saigon: Kim Mai Gold Shop, 84C Cong Quynh, District 1; Kim Chau Gold Shop, 784 Dien Bien Phu, District 10, Ho Chi Minh City.

When exchanging Euros, besides paying attention to the exchange rate, travelers should exchange money in Vietnam beforehand, opting for a variety of banknote denominations with a preference for larger bills to avoid carrying too much cash. For example, when exchanging 30,000,000 VND (approximately 1,120 EUR), you can request one €500 note, two €200 notes, and the rest in €100, €50, and €20 denominations for convenience.

Clothing and Accessories

Europe's weather is relatively pleasant and varies distinctly by season. Depending on your travel period, choose appropriate clothing.

• Spring: Lightweight warm clothing such as t-shirts, jeans, thin sweaters, and light scarves.
• Summer: Breathable, sweat-absorbing outfits like tank tops, crop tops, tennis skirts, and bikinis.
• Autumn: Warm layers with light jackets, such as jeans, cardigans, t-shirts, and thin long-sleeves.
• Winter: Thermal clothing, thick coats, scarves, wool hats, waterproof gloves, and high boots.

Travelers should also pack accessories like hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, and umbrellas for unexpected rain. Ensure your attire is appropriate for each destination, such as avoiding tank tops and short skirts when visiting churches in Italy or Vatican City. Opt for elegant, neutral-colored outfits and avoid counterfeit items when traveling in France.

When traveling in Europe, avoid crossbody or waist bags to prevent pickpocketing. Skip high heels as you’ll walk extensively; prioritize comfortable footwear for a hassle-free experience.

Essential Devices and Items

Phone SIM Card

To ensure uninterrupted communication and seamless internet access 24/7, travelers can purchase a Europe-wide travel SIM card. Prices for these SIMs typically range from 100,000 VND to 500,000 VND, depending on data capacity and duration of use.

Generally, European travel SIMs do not require personal documentation. Travelers can buy them in advance and activate them upon arrival. However, counterfeit SIMs are common, leading to connectivity issues after landing. To avoid this, purchase your SIM from reputable travel agencies for detailed guidance and guaranteed quality.

Choosing a SIM card based on budget-friendly, self-guided European travel experiences

Power Adapter

Europe does not have a universal power socket, but most countries use the Type F socket, which has two round pins and is compatible with various plug types. Additionally, some countries have their own socket types, such as Type H in Ireland, Type E in France, Poland, and Belgium, Type J in Switzerland, and Type C, which is similar to Vietnam's standard.

Common types of power sockets in Europe

If your electronic devices have flat pins, make sure to bring a compatible adapter to match the sockets in each country.

Phone, Camera, Laptop

While a power adapter and European travel SIM are essential, other electronic devices like phones, laptops, and cameras are equally indispensable for long trips. Always remember to check and carry them for communication, accessing helpful apps, or simply capturing memorable moments.

Which countries should you visit for budget-friendly European travel?

Europe captivates travelers not only with its serene, ancient charm but also offers opportunities to explore its rich history, culture, cuisine, and vibrant atmosphere. Here are some must-visit countries for your European travel itinerary:

France - The City of Light

• Time zone: UTC +1 in winter and UTC +2 in summer.
• Currency: Euro.

Whether you're exploring Europe through guided tours or self-guided trips, France will always top the list of must-visit countries. France exudes romance through its ancient architecture, picturesque villages straight out of a movie, and streets filled with poetic charm.

Travelers should not miss iconic French landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, the Louvre Museum, or the chance to explore La Concorde Square and enjoy a serene boat ride along the Seine River.

Tips for traveling to Europe - France (Photo: @nld.mediacdn.vn)

Germany - The Land of Castles

• Time zone: UTC +1 in winter and UTC +2 in summer.
• Currency: Euro.

Beyond its historical and architectural heritage, Germany captivates travelers with its picturesque natural beauty and unique culture. Visiting Germany, you’ll not only admire centuries-old castles but also experience the majestic landscapes of the snow-capped Alps and vast primeval forests.

Based on European travel experiences, visitors can enjoy activities like skiing, mountain climbing, and trekking to fully immerse themselves in the pristine beauty and fresh air of the region.

Tips for traveling to Europe - Germany (Photo: @magicalplacestotravel)

Switzerland - The World's Most Livable Country

• Time zone: UTC +1 in winter and UTC +2 in summer.
• Currency: Swiss Franc, Euro.

Known by many titles such as the world's most livable country and the most beautiful country, Switzerland will take travelers from one surprise to another, from the snow-covered Alps to ancient villages nestled deep in the valleys.

When visiting Switzerland, besides experiencing the scenic train ride through the Rigi Mountain valley and admiring the serene Lake Zurich and Lake Lucerne, travelers can also indulge in local delicacies such as cheese fondue and potato rosti.

Tips for traveling to Europe - Switzerland (Photo: @visitswitzerland)

Netherlands - The Land of Windmills

• Time zone: UTC +1 in winter and UTC +2 in summer.
• Currency: Euro.

The Netherlands is a favorite among travelers for its pristine landscapes and natural beauty. Beyond its iconic windmills, the country boasts mesmerizing tulip gardens, romantic canals, and lush parks and reserves.

Take a boat ride along Amsterdam's canals and admire the rows of historic houses. You’ll surely be captivated by the romantic and peaceful rhythm of life here.

Tips for traveling to Europe - Netherlands (Photo: @amsterdam.explores)

Italy - The Paradise of Romance

• Time zone: UTC +1 in winter and UTC +2 in summer.
• Currency: Euro.

Italy is often described as a destination everyone dreams of visiting at least once in their lifetime. In Italy, you’ll encounter iconic Renaissance architecture such as the Florence Cathedral, the Colosseum, and the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

Beyond its historical significance, Italy’s beauty and romance are complemented by its reputation as the birthplace of world-famous cuisine, including pizza, spaghetti, and mozzarella cheese.

Tips for traveling to Europe - Italy (Photo: @andiamo_sergio)

Belgium - The Kingdom of Chocolate

• Time zone: UTC +1 in winter and UTC +2 in summer.
• Currency: Euro.

Known as the heart of Europe, Belgium is a blend of cultural and artistic richness, as well as a renowned political and economic hub. When visiting, don’t miss the Brussels Stock Exchange – Bourse, the iconic Atomium, and the world’s most modern museum, Magritte.

If you visit Belgium, don’t forget to bring back some chocolate, the country’s most famous treat, as a souvenir.

Tips for traveling to Europe - Belgium (Photo: @l_khaisin)

Where to stay when traveling to Europe? - Budget-friendly European travel tips

Based on budget-friendly European travel experiences, combining multiple countries often limits the time spent in each. Therefore, travelers should maximize efficiency by booking hotels near city centers or close to major tourist attractions.

For example, when planning to visit the Eiffel Tower, you can book mid-range hotels like Le Relais Saint Charles or opt for a 5-star experience at Shangri La, both located in vibrant central areas with direct views of the Eiffel Tower.

Here are some centrally located hotel recommendations with a variety of room types and price ranges, based on self-guided European travel experiences:

European hotels and reference prices at the time

Based on budget-friendly European travel tips, travelers should book hotels early to avoid sold-out situations, especially during peak seasons. Early bookings also help you secure promotions from travel agencies, making your trip more economical.

Additionally, travelers should keep the following points in mind for a smooth hotel booking process in Europe:

• Choose hotels in central areas, close to attractions or train and bus stations.
• Prioritize hotels with positive reviews on booking platforms and travel forums.
• Plan your travel schedule and book in advance. For self-guided European travel, having a confirmed booking increases your chances of visa approval.
• Watch for promotions like 11/11 or Black Friday for discounted hotel rates.
• Review booking policies, including breakfast inclusion, extra bed charges, and cancellation policies in case of visa rejection or unforeseen issues.

Booking hotels based on European travel experiences (Photo: @booking)

Transportation options when traveling in Europe

Traveling to Europe

Flying to Europe takes approximately 12 hours for direct flights and 17 to 41 hours for flights with layovers. However, flights with stops are often cheaper than direct ones.

Typically, Vietnam Airlines and Air France operate direct flights from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to Europe. For discounted fares, travelers can explore budget-friendly European travel tips and book flights with 1-2 layovers.

Airfare to Europe at the time, excluding taxes and fees

For my trip to France two months ago, I used Qatar Airways. Based on prior budget-friendly European travel tips, this airline is one of the most active operators on routes from Vietnam to Europe, offering numerous promotions.

After nearly 20 hours of flying with a layover in Doha, Qatar, even with an economy-class ticket and a connecting flight, the quality was surprisingly good. The seating space was comfortable, meals were served hot and promptly, and the in-flight entertainment system was impressive. These were the first highlights in my self-guided European travel review.

Getting around Europe

Traveling between cities within the same country is relatively simple. You can take taxis, buses, or rent a car. However, renting a car requires completing specific procedures and obtaining an international driving permit beforehand.

Additionally, trams are a traditional and widely used mode of transportation in Europe. Travelers can easily spot these vehicles moving directly on the streets via sliding rails and overhead electric lines. It’s a delightful experience to board a tram, move leisurely, and enjoy the cityscape through the windows.

Tips for European travel and transportation (Photo: @znews.vn)

So, how do you travel between countries in Europe? Here are some popular transportation options with their pros, cons, and reference prices:

Transportation options between European countries and reference prices per leg

A super handy budget-friendly European travel tip is to take buses or trains between countries at night. This not only optimizes your travel schedule but also saves you a significant amount on accommodation. However, make sure to prepare yourself physically, as sleeping for long hours on bus or train seats can be quite tiring.

What to eat when traveling in Europe? - Budget-friendly European travel tips

European cuisine has a profound influence on global gastronomy. The dishes here are often distinctive, meticulously prepared, and deeply rooted in the culinary traditions of each country.

Foie Gras - A French delicacy

French cuisine is known for its elegance and sophistication, and the delicacy Foie Gras is no exception. Prepared meticulously by skilled chefs, Foie Gras is typically pan-seared for 2-3 minutes and topped with a special sweet sauce.

Foie Gras - A French specialty (Photo: @restaurantcotecour)

German Sausages

Sausages are considered the soul of German cuisine, with hundreds of varieties made from diverse ingredients like pork, lamb, and goat. These add a unique touch to the country’s culinary landscape.

Bitterballen - A Dutch delicacy

A popular Dutch snack, Bitterballen is made from minced fish and vegetables, shaped into balls, and coated with a crispy breadcrumb layer. Best enjoyed hot and crunchy, it’s easily found across the Netherlands, from supermarkets to street vendors.

Belgian Chocolate

While chocolate can be found everywhere, Belgium is renowned for producing the world’s finest. Belgian chocolate is often handmade and finely ground from 100% pure cocoa butter, satisfying even the most discerning palates.

Belgian chocolate is celebrated as the best in the world (Photo: @_vanci_)

Cheese Fondue - Swiss Cheese Fondue

Famous for its unique and exquisite cheeses, Cheese Fondue is considered the national dish of Switzerland. This dish is made by melting various cheeses and keeping them warm in a pot, served with dipping items like smoked meat, bread slices, sausages, and potatoes.

Swiss Cheese Fondue (Photo: @norloft)

Souvenirs to bring back from Europe

Known as the cradle of world culture, Europe offers souvenirs that carry deep cultural significance and reflect the unique characteristics of each region. Travelers can explore some gift ideas based on European travel experiences below.

• Handmade Souvenirs: Affordable, easy to find, and convenient to carry, handmade souvenirs are a top choice. These items often come in various designs and materials, symbolizing iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and Big Ben. Prices range from 100,000 VND to 2,000,000 VND.
• Belgian Chocolate: Renowned for the world’s best chocolate, Belgium boasts famous brands like Callebaut, Neuhaus, and Leonidas. Prices vary widely, from €3 to €220 (approximately 80,000 VND to 6,000,000 VND).
• Cheese: Cheese is a long-standing culinary tradition in countries like Italy and Switzerland. Many European shops sell vacuum-sealed cheeses such as mozzarella, cheddar, and camembert, perfect for gifts. Prices start at €2.33 per pound (around 63,000 VND for 450 grams).
• Wooden Clogs: Alongside ceramics, wooden clogs are a cultural symbol of the Netherlands, often decorated with intricate designs. A must-buy when visiting the land of windmills, prices start from 300,000 VND per pair.
• Cosmetics & Fashion: As the birthplace of global brands like LV, Gucci, Dior, and L'Oréal, Europe, especially France, offers high-quality products at reasonable prices, with no risk of counterfeits. Prices range from a few million to hundreds of millions of VND.
• Rose-Based Products: If visiting Bulgaria, the land of roses, consider purchasing rose oil, perfumes, or cosmetics, all made from 100% pure Bulgarian roses. Prices start at €5 (134,000 VND) and up.

What to buy as souvenirs when traveling in Europe (Photo: @eBay)

Some notable European festivals

Venice Carnival

Kicking off spring in the beautiful city of Venice, Italy, the Venice Carnival is a parade of dancers in dazzling evening wear inspired by classical styles. It’s a time for people to gather, dance, and celebrate European cultural values, particularly the rich history of Italy.

• Time: January 27 - February 13.
• Location: Venice, Italy.
• Admission: Free.

Carnival Festival in Venice (Photo: @travel.design.by.leila)

Keukenhof Flower Festival

Located in the suburb of Lisse, south of Amsterdam, the Dutch Tulip Festival begins in spring when tulip fields awaken, blooming with vibrant colors after the cold winter. Keukenhof Park, the venue for this festival, is often hailed as the most beautiful flower garden in Europe, giving the festival its name.

• Time: Late March to early May.
• Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands.
• Admission: €19/adult (510,000 VND/ticket), €9/child (241,000 VND/ticket).

Tulip Festival (Photo: @traveladdictedwomen & stellalee92)

Bienal de Flamenco Festival

One of the largest Flamenco festivals in the world, this event combines music and dance deeply rooted in Spanish culture. Attending the Bienal de Flamenco allows visitors to immerse themselves in iconic dance performances and participate in workshops and seminars about Flamenco art.

• Time: Late April to late May.
• Location: Seville, Spain.
• Admission: Free.

Tips for traveling to Europe during the Bienal de Flamenco Festival (Photo: @aireflamencotheatre)

Oktoberfest Festival

Oktoberfest is an annual beer festival held in Munich. Locals and tourists alike gather to celebrate and experience traditional German culture. Alongside enjoying famous beers like Paulaner and Hofbrau, attendees can also savor delicious dishes such as German sausages and pretzels.

• Time: Late September to mid-October.
• Location: Theresienwiese, Munich, Germany.
• Admission: Free, with costs only for food and drinks.

Diwali Festival of Lights

Originating from Indian culture, Diwali is the largest festival of lights in the UK, starting in the afternoon and lasting late into the night. During this time, Trafalgar Square and Leicester Square come alive with vibrant lantern displays, traditional performances, and Indian culinary experiences.

• Time: October - November annually.
• Location: London, UK.
• Admission: Free.

Suggested 15-day European travel itinerary

With the advantage of free movement between European Union countries, a typical European tour itinerary often combines multiple countries, ranging from 8 days and 7 nights to 15 days and 14 nights. However, the ideal duration to fully experience 3 to 6 countries is usually between 9 and 15 days.

10-day, 9-night European travel itinerary

• Package price: From 65,900,000 VND.
• Sample itinerary:

Sample 10-day, 9-night European travel itinerary

Tips for traveling to Europe on a guided tour (Photo: @visitswitzerland)

15-day European travel itinerary

• Package price: From 131,900,000 VND.
• Sample itinerary:

Sample 15-day, 14-night European travel itinerary

Budget-friendly European travel costs

In addition to exploring the 10-day and 15-day European tour programs mentioned above, you can also look into self-guided European travel tips and outline some fixed minimum costs to choose the most suitable itinerary for yourself.

Below is a reference cost for a 10-day, 9-night self-guided European trip, excluding additional expenses, shopping, and tips.

Costs for a 10-day, 9-night self-guided European trip

Comparing the costs of a 10-day, 9-night European tour versus a self-guided trip, the tour option is more cost-effective, starting at 51,990,000 VND/tour compared to a minimum of 74,500,000 VND for a self-guided trip. Joining a tour and optimizing the itinerary can save you significantly compared to traveling independently. Moreover, booking a package tour makes the journey easier, especially if you lack experience exploring the "Old Continent."

When should you travel to Europe on a tour? Tips for European guided tours

If you don’t have much time to research self-guided European travel or plan a detailed itinerary, joining a tour is a suitable choice, especially when traveling with family, including elders and children.

European tours typically include round-trip flights, hotel accommodations, meals, transportation, entrance fees, and bilingual guides throughout the journey. Additionally, travelers receive assistance with visa applications, with higher approval rates due to the travel agency's sponsorship.

Popular European tours currently include 9-day, 8-night tours and 11-day, 10-night tours, offering diverse itineraries to explore Germany, France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and more.

Tips for European all-inclusive tours (Photo: @vacationworlds)

Whether you choose a tour or any other travel option, keep the following points in mind:

• Compare tour prices from different companies based on the itinerary, duration, number of attractions, and airlines. Pay special attention to what is included and excluded in the package.
• Choose a European tour from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City that suits your travel needs. If you’re particularly interested in a Hanoi-based tour but live in Saigon, you can book a flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi to join the tour.
• After selecting a program with a suitable price, research the reputation of the travel company you plan to book with.
• Be mindful of European cultural norms and the customs of the countries you’ll visit, such as no littering, no noise, and avoiding counterfeit goods.
• Prepare basic medications like cold and digestive remedies, as some countries may require a prescription to purchase them.
• Pay attention to restaurant rules, such as fines for food waste and restrictions on bringing outside food or drinks. Additionally, European dining often follows a course-by-course service, and tipping is customary, so keep these in mind for the best experience.

We hope the self-guided European travel tips shared by Mytour above will equip you with the necessary knowledge for your European adventure. For further advice or to book an all-inclusive European tour, contact Mytour Travel at 1900 2083 today!

Author: Dung Nguyen

Image source: Internet