Things to do in  Europe

Not necessarily—but you won’t be driving as much as you do in other parts of the world. Most European cities are designed to be walkable, not drivable: Some city centers are pedestrianized and many restrict cars. But most cities have fast, efficient public transit and allow rideshare apps to operate.

July is high summer in Europe, but the cities are still lively—some cities empty out in August as locals head to the beach. Regular July events include tennis at Wimbledon, the Tour de France, and France’s Bastille Day celebrations, plus the Montreux Jazz Festival, Salzburg Festival, and Barcelona Beach Festival.

November is an affordable travel month in most of Europe. The ski season has not started, there are no major school vacations to consider, and it’s not yet the holidays, so you can get deals on hotels and vacation rentals. Outside ski areas, February also can offer value for travelers.

Europe has more than 40 different countries, and they’re all worth visiting. Greece and Italy are tops for ruins; France is famed for food and wine; Switzerland and Austria draw winter sports fans; photographers love Croatia’s coast and the Netherlands’ windmills; beer buffs adore Germany, the Czech Republic, and Belgium.

Generally, western Europe is expensive, with prices similar to the United States, and eastern Europe is cheap, with prices closer to Southeast Asia. But, travel style matters, too. You can backpack Bulgaria or Albania for under US$50 a day or spend thousands on luxury hotels in Venice or Paris.

Which country in Europe is prettiest depends on personal taste. Every country offers something different, from the epic architecture in Italy, Spain, and France, dramatic fjords in Norway, and spectacular alpine views in Switzerland. For tulips, go to the Netherlands. For heather, visit Scotland. For rugged, drama-fueled landscapes, explore Iceland.