Sometimes navigating a new city can be…a little daunting! And a lot confusing. But let’s be real, once you get the hang of it, knowing how transportation works makes life so much easier! So let’s talk about getting around in a whole new environment. Here are our favorite 7 ways to get around Europe.
1. Trains:
Trains in are a fantastic way to get around in Europe. Although they aren’t the cheapest or fastest, trains might be our favorite way to travel. That’s because trains in Europe are generally:
- affordable
- comfortable
- convenient
- on time
- and perfect for scenic views
We can’t think of much better ways of getting city to city than trains. You can watch the beautiful landscape pass by while you have the freedom to walk around the cabin.
Use these sites (or apps) to plan trips and get tickets:
Other train tips:
- Use the apps/websites above to buy tickets
- You can also buy tickets in person (use a kiosk whenever possible β itβs way faster!)
- Only wait in line if you absolutely have to
- REMEMBER to stamp your ticket BEFORE you board the train at one of the yellow boxes, otherwise you will get a huge fine (a staff member will check tickets for validation during the train ride)
- You can travel on a sleeper train to save on accommodation and arrive first thing in the morning
- Board your train early β if you wait until the last minute, you might miss it
- Be prepared to send your bags through a security scanner
- Keep your ticket handy
- Ask staff member to tell you when your station is coming up
2. Buses:
Buses are another great way to get around. If you’re lucky and going in the off-season (September – May), they shouldn’t be too crowded but be aware that around rush hour (5-6 pm), they can get really busy. We prefer buses for smaller, in-city travel. But you can also take buses on longer rides if you’re trying to save money! Buses are usually the most cost-effective choice for longer trips.
3. On Foot:
Europeans (in large cities) walk everywhere! No matter how long or how short your stay is, bring good walking shoes. You won’t regret it. Walking is a wonderful way to get around. Not only is it good for your waistline and wallet (more room for Italian gelato!), but walking also helps you get a feel for the city.
4. Planes:
Sometimes it’s hard for Americans to realize how cheap, fast, and simple it is to fly to another part of Europe. There are cheap, small airlines that can get you from A to B in a jiffy. Be sure not to take too much luggage (that’s where they get you) and you should be just fine. If you are planning to fly, check the whole month’s pricing. You can save a lot that way. We’ve had some Travelers go to London or Paris for a weekend for just β¬20! Some of our favorite small airlines for going around Europe are:
- Ryanair
- Norwegian
- and you can always use Skyscanner to find really good deals
5. Bikes:
Did you know that Copenhagen actually has more bikes than people? Yep! This capital city of Denmark is the only city in the world where this holds true. There are 650,000 bikes and 520,000 people! But there’s a reason. It’s actually really cinematic to ride a bike on cobblestone streets. Plus the well-designed and well-marked bike lanes of Europe make riding a bike in a city a breeze. Many European cities have bikes in public areas that are easy to find and rent. Usually, all you need is a payment method and a smartphone.
5. The Metro:
Cheap? Easy to navigate? And it’s fast? Say no more, we’re hopping on the metro! Seriously. The metro just makes life easier. Use it to your advantage.
6. Electric Scooters:
These are seriously, hands-down one of the best ways to experience a European city. Not only are they affordable, but they’re super fun to ride. Plus, you experience the city in a beautiful scenic way, passing under beautiful trees and smelling pastry shops on the way. That’s much more pleasant than going underground (the metro) or staring at the back of someone’s head the entire ride.
7. Ferry:
If you like water and don’t get motion sick, a ferry can be a fun way to travel! Although you’ll generally save more money taking a train or plane, ferries can be really fun. Plus they’re a great alternative to planes if you have sensitive ears.
Other transportation tips:
- Rome 2 Rio β Use this website for best ways to get from A to B, but be sure to double-check the bus and train schedules before you plan. This site is a good way to see multiple methods of travel and compare cost, times, etc.
- Google Maps is accurate and helpful.
- A word about strikesβ¦
- Strikes may happen
- And often
- Note that strikes are usually announced beforehand
- Sometimes drivers will still operate through the strike
Those are our tips for using transportation in Europe! What’s your favorite method to get from A to B?
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