Europe - Explore

Jenna Busch

Locals Of This Iconic Italian City Despise It When Tourists Break An Unspoken Walking Rule

Being a good tourist means understanding the rules, written or unwritten, of the places you visit. Here's an important one to know about an iconic Italian city.

Brie Schmidt

The Brief Windows In Summer 2024 When Clever Travelers Will Head To Paris, Per Rick Steves

The Paris Olympics is going to make the city even busier than usual - and that's saying something. Here's when Rick Steves suggests going to avoid the crowds.

Anna Robinson

FlixBus Offers An Extremely Cheap Way To Travel Across Europe, But Is It Worth It?

FlixBus is an affordable bus service in Europe, but should you be wary of a budget bus line? We share conflicting reports and our own personal experience.

Brie Schmidt

Why Tourists Getting A Bus Fine In Rome Is So Common (And The Simple Way To Avoid It)

Rome has great public transportation, but the city takes bus violations very seriously. Thankfully, the fines are easy to avoid when you know what to do.

Lauren Goldblum

If This Food Is On The Lunch Time Menu In Rome, You're Likely At A Tourist Trap Restaurant

One of the greatest joys in Italy is indulging in the authentic local food. Here's how to avoid wasting a precious meal at a tourist trap restaurant.

Laura Jones

When To Buy Train Tickets In Italy To Get The Best Deal

Sometimes it's fun to go with the flow when you travel. But for bigger purchases like train tickets, you can save a lot of money by booking in advance.

Jen Ottolino

Are Flip-Flops Actually Banned On This Popular Italian Island? Here's What We Know

Lots of media outlets say this island in Italy has a ban on flip-flops. But is it true? We dug deep (including calling the tourist office!) to find the truth.

Lee Adams

This UK Destination Offers Visitors A Chance To Tour A Royal Family Estate

At this grand estate in the UK visitors can explore the fascinating history of the royal family’s homes and admire some stunning architecture.

Lauren Goldblum

Your Croissant Won't Be As Tasty If You Make This Common Ordering Mistake In France

No trip to France would be complete without an authentic croissant. Here's an essential tip to remember when searching for the perfect French pastry.

Jennifer Sizeland

The European Country Best Explored Via Road Trip, According To Travel Pro Rick Steves

Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime road trip around the whole of Iceland with advice from European travel expert Rick Steves, and see waterfalls, geysers, and more.

Jennifer Sizeland

Why Tourists Should Take Note Of The Color Of The Gelato Serving Spoons In Italy

Those colored serving spoons in an Italian gelateria aren't just for decoration. They actually tell you what's in the gelato! Find out all you need to know.

Jenna Busch

This Perfectly Pristine And Historic Island May Truly Be England's Best Kept Secret

Calling all European history lovers and outdoor adventurers! This off-the-beaten-track island has tons to explore and makes for a great summer vacation.

Jenna Busch

This Little-Known National Park Has Unbelievable Views And Is One Of Europe's Most Underrated

Visit this national park in Bulgaria to enjoy stunning mountain hiking opportunities, see alpine lakes, spot unique wildlife, ski, and relax in hot springs.

Lee Adams

Incredible Scenery And Stunningly Clear Water Make This European Lake A Must-Visit

Whether you're skiing and dining in an igloo in winter or walking footpaths or paddleboarding in summer, you'll love the view at this gorgeous European lake.

Amanda Morgan

A Soothing And Scenic Beach Vacation Awaits At This Lesser-Known European Island

Escape the crowds that flock to the beach Europe every summer by heading to this quieter island just a short ferry trip from mainland Croatia.

Brie Schmidt

Why Rick Steves Says To Avoid This European Destination Outside Of A Brief Window

Most people try to avoid destinations during peak tourist season. But for this region in Europe, Rick Steves says that's the best time to visit! Find out why.

Brie Schmidt

Don't Expect To Find These Common Things At An Airbnb In Europe

Staying at an Airbnb is an excellent way to get a slice of local life in a new country, but be prepared - it may not have all the same comforts of home.

Jenna Busch

This Secluded Beach With Unmatched Beauty Is The Best Rated In All Of Albania

This secluded beach in Albania will have you surrounded by cliffs, where you can camp, relax in the sun, explore caves, and even do a steep hike.

Jenna Busch

This Secret Beach Is France's Own Little Corner Of Paradise With Vibrant Cliffside Views

Head to this hidden gem at the foot of staggering cliffs in the French Riviera to swim in crystal clear water and visit one of two private beach clubs.

Brie Schmidt

Rick Steves Shares A Dangerous Mistake To Avoid While On A Trolley In This European Country

Taking public transport is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the local way of life in Europe, but Rick Steves warns of this dangerous mistake.

Lauren Goldblum

This Buzzing, Colorful Island Has Some Of The Best Food In Italy, According To Rick Steves

Italy is known for its food, but this island's unique location adds more worldly influences into its culinary scene. Don't worry, it still has the classics.

Lauren Goldblum

This Bustling Street Full Of Shops And Eateries Is One Of Rick Steves' Favorites In France

When in Paris, do as the Parisians, right? There's no better way to dive deep into Parisian culture than by spending a day on this Rick Steves-approved street.

Brie Schmidt

Follow Italy's Unexpected Shoe Rule To Avoid Getting Slapped With Fines In The Cinque Terre

You might have the perfect Instagram-worthy outfit planned for your trip to Cinque Terre, but believe it or not, wearing the wrong shoes can cost you!

Amanda Morgan

Why Tourists Need To Be Mindful Of The Clothing They Pack For This Popular Spanish Island

Some businesses on this popular Spanish island are trying to subdue rowdy tourists with a dress code. If you’re visiting, make sure you pack accordingly.

Anna Robinson

Rick Steves Says This Budget-Friendly European City Has Some Of The Best Attractions

Dreaming of visiting a European city but can't afford the Roman or Parisian price tag? Rick Steves suggests going east for the best budget-friendly sightseeing.

Camila Pérez B

Why Tourists Need To Think Carefully About The Clothes They Pack For A Vacation To Scotland

If you're planning a vacation to Scotland, notorious for its unpredictable weather, this is how you can pack strategically to prepare for anything.

Lauren Goldblum

The Secret Entrance To One Of Paris' Most Popular Tourist Attractions Has Much Shorter Lines

This spot is one of the most popular attractions in Paris, which means endlessly long lines. But don't let that stop you! We know of a secret entrance.