No other destination offers variety quite like Europe. From Norway's majestic fjords to Italy's history, France's art and Spain's cuisine, you can taste a new cultural flavor across each border. While sometimes expensive to get to, Europe is easy to travel around once you get there and rewards those who research its treasures in advance.
Decide what you want to experience. Europe is a continent of many faces with something new across each border. If you are seeking art, perhaps you will be drawn to Florence or Paris. For architecture, Barcelona or Prague.
Buy a travel book, trawl online sites and join travel forums to research your trip. Use fellow travelers to your advantage; they may have more up-to-date advice about attractions or hostels or know the best ways to get around.
Set a budget and find out expected daily costs in the cities you plan to visit. Work out the cheapest and most secure ways to get your currency; not every country uses the euro. Europe isn't cheap, but that doesn't mean it can't be seen on a budget. A shorter trip might give you more bang for your buck. A longer one will teach you to economize.
Plan a route and consult online timetables to see what is possible and how long journeys take. Remember, some places take longer to explore than others.
Research how to travel between European countries so you can buy your tickets. The trains in Europe are fast, clean and reliable. Eurail offers several passes for non-European residents with options to travel in just one country or between 21.
As of 2010, prices were from $469 for people ages 25 and under, to $2,039, with discounts for groups. Air and ferry companies have competitive options too.
Decide what you want to see in each city. You can get a lot of information online and some cities offer multiday tickets for attractions and public transport. Cities such as Rome, Paris and Florence are a tour guide's dream, but you can often do it cheaper by yourself.
Invest in a good bag or case. Consider getting a secure fanny pack but bear in mind that wearing one can single you out as a tourist. Ask fellow travelers about what to pack; you'll want to leave room in your bag for souvenirs.
