Must-know travel tips for
Europe in their summer
Make sure everything from your suitcase to your headspace is ready
to get the most out of all Europe has to offer in the summer.
Europe summer travel insights
Incredible architecture, fascinating history, remarkable cultures and picturesque landscapes – European getaways offer so much. Visiting between June and August, when the continent enjoys its summer, is an especially great time to travel to Europe as you can leave Australian winter behind for generally good weather and pleasant temperatures.
Here’s how to get the most out of a trip to Europe in the summer, from what to pack to relishing your visit like a local.
Packing tips for Europe summer travel
While you’ll mostly be preparing for warm temperatures – some cities in Europe can get up into the 40s in the height of summer – it’s also wise to bring light layers. Evenings often get chillier in many European cities, and you’ll even get the odd cool and cloudy day. In addition to layers, don’t forget sunscreen and hats. Having options for a range of climates guarantees you’ll enjoy every moment of your trip, whatever Mother Nature has planned.
Top tip:
You’ll want comfortable shoes or sandals for days spent sightseeing or moving from one spot to another. Many European cities are built for walking rather than driving, so expect to hit a few PBs on your steps count.
Everyday tips for Europe summer travel
One of the most charming things about many European cultures is the slower pace of life. In some areas, locals are very rarely in a rush, especially in smaller, remote towns. That means there may be times you have to wait a little longer for service, whether you’re in a café, restaurant or shop. Embrace the local way of life by slowing down and enjoying the moment. It’ll help you return home feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.
Top tip:
European locals appreciate it when tourists at least attempt to speak their language, especially during an introduction or first meeting. Educating yourself on how to say basic phrases in the local language – ‘Hello’, ‘How are you?’, ‘How much is this please?’, ‘Thank you’ and ‘Goodbye’ – is likely to make your European experience more pleasant and gratifying. You’ll often find locals value the gesture, before happily switching to English for ease.
Sightseeing tips for European summer travel
Pre-booking museums and attractions in Europe is always a smart idea. You’ll be far less likely to waste precious holiday time in a queue and for some sights, pre-booking is essential. Whether you’re keen to visit the Louvre Museum in Paris, the Sistine Chapel in Rome or the Anne Frank house in Amsterdam, be sure to check the attraction’s website beforehand to secure your spot.
Top tip:
Don’t forget to check if your destination offers multi-day or multi-location sightseeing passes. It’s a cost-effective way to see as many attractions as possible during your visit.
Safety tips for Europe summer travel
For all its beauty, there are some aspects that you will need to be vigilant of in Europe: namely, pickpocketing. Any spots that attract a lot of tourists are also attractive to thieves, so stay vigilant in large crowds and consider using a belt or bum bag to hold cards, cash and personal belongings. Keeping valuables close to your body and in your line of sight makes you less of a target.
Phone snatching – when thieves drive onto the sidewalk on mopeds and grab your phone out of your hand before speeding away – can also be quite common in Europe. Consider a wrist strap for your phone, and always be aware of your surroundings when you take it out to snap pictures or look up directions.
Top tip:
Rome’s Trevi Fountain, the Eiffel Tower in Paris and Las Rambles in Spain have been ranked as the most at-risk spots for pickpocketing.
Spending tips for European summer travel
You may want to consider using your American Express® Credit Card instead of cash while travelling in Europe: your Account is protected by our Fraud Protection Guarantee1. That means, you won't have to pay for unauthorised spending on your Account, and if you have an eligible Card, you’ll earn Membership Rewards® points2 to use toward future travel.
Note that Amex Credit Cards attract a Currency Conversion Fee of 3% on international spend.
Read our article to find the right Amex Card for International Travel for you and your adventures.
Top tip:
If a retailer gives you an option to choose which currency you want to pay in – local currency versus Australian dollars – choose local. That way, you’ll get the fairest exchange rate set by Amex, as opposed to an exchange rate dictated by the retailer, which may or may not be as competitive as the international standard.
1. Provided that you do not contribute to or unreasonably delay reporting any misuse of your Account and you have complied with your Card Conditions, you will not be held liable for any unauthorised charges.
2. Subject to the Terms and Conditions of the Membership Rewards program available here .
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