8 Best Places to Go in Europe for First-Time Travellers

It’s your first trip, and you have decided to visit Europe. But you are confused because the list of European countries feels endless. And you’re stuck wondering which place will actually make your trip adventurous and memorable. That’s completely normal. 

Europe isn’t just about famous landmarks. In fact, the best spots often surprise you, slow you down, and make you think, Can a place really be this beautiful?

With that in mind, this guide highlights 8 places to go in Europe for first time Travellers, helping you plan smarter, travel better, and truly enjoy the journey. From Paris to Finnish Lapland, these cities have captured hearts time and again. Ready to explore Europe’s most unforgettable destinations? Let’s start…

Key Takeaways:

• Stay in walkable neighbourhoods so that you can feel the local vibe.
• Book tickets online for major attractions, which helps you skip long lines.
• Pick only 2–3 cities for your first trip, otherwise you’ll end up rushing everywhere.
• Leave time for wandering, because the best spots are often off the beaten path.

8 Best Places To Go In Europe In 2026

Europe offers everything, from the charming streets of Paris to the Arctic magic of Finnish Lapland. Along the way, it becomes clear what truly makes a trip unforgettable. In this guide, I will share 8 places to go in europe for first time travellers and what really works for first-time travellers, helping you enjoy Europe without rushing and without missing the best spots.

1. Paris, France

When we talk about beautiful places in Europe and don’t mention Paris, that’s just not possible. Paris really feels like the heart of Europe. The Eiffel Tower alone draws millions of eyes, and seeing it light up the night sky is always magical.

Paris is famous for the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, however, these are only a small part of the city. Instead, the real charm of Paris is in its everyday life, the places most people rush past. Areas like Montmartre, with its old streets, artists, and live music, make the city feel alive. That’s why Paris is the most visited city in Europe.

Visiting Place Locations

Paris is divided into districts called “arrondissements.” Here is exactly where you can find the spots mentioned:

Pricing for 2026

To help plan your visit, here are the prices of some attractions in Paris, giving you an idea of the cost range.

Eiffel Tower:

• The adult ticket costs around €23-€117.
• The youth ticket (11-24) costs around €7-€98.
• The child ticket (4-11) costs around €3-€60.

The Louvre:

• Non-EU Visitors: €32.00 (Standard adult ticket).
• EU Residents/Under 18s: Free (With valid ID).

Montmartre Area:

• Free to wander the streets and visit the Sacré-Cœur Basilica.
• €15-€25 for a standard lunch menu at a local bistro.
• €2.55 for a single Metro/Funicular ticket to reach the hilltop.

Best For: 

First-time visitors and couples

Best Season: 

April-June or September-October

Special Tip: 

First, buy your tickets online, and afterward, head to the popular spots early while they’re still quiet and almost empty.

Testimonials

“An absolutely stunning experience! Visiting the Eiffel Tower was totally worth it the view from the top is breathtaking, especially if you’re not afraid of heights. The atmosphere is magical both day and night, and seeing Paris from above feels like something out of a dream. Truly a must-visit landmark!” Bianca  (Jan 2026)

“Visited at night to catch the hourly light show when it sparkles for a few minutes. Definitely worth it. Didn’t go up the tower because lines were long, but had lots to see just walking around the tower. And there was a Christmas market nearby so that took up a good chunk of our time. Of all the sites to see in Paris, the Eiffel should be top of the list.” JoeDurant (Jan 2026)

“It is really beautiful and always breathtaking, imposing. For those who wish to visit it all the way up by elevator, it is advisable to prepare for a long wait (we visited it in Paris over the New Year period, presumably in other months there will be less crowding). I didn’t realize it was so high up close. During the holiday season, the evening is beautifully lit until late at night” Alessio ed Elisa (8 Jan 2026)

2. Rome, Italy

Next up, Rome’s 2,000-year-old history instantly captures attention. As one of Europe’s most historic cities, it’s filled with iconic landmarks like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Vatican City, the Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica, all showcasing the city’s immense power and influence throughout history.

Additionally, one place that will really fascinate you is the Trevi Fountain. People believe that if you throw a coin into it, you will return to Rome someday. With so much history and beauty around every corner, Rome is a city that promises an unforgettable experience.

Visiting Place Locations

Rome is easy to explore on foot. Meanwhile, the main sights are spread out across the historic center and Vatican City, which is a separate state.

Pricing for 2026

Rome has rolled out a few changes for 2026 to better control tourist crowds, including a new access fee for the Trevi Fountain basin. With that in mind, here’s a simple breakdown of what you can expect to pay for some popular attractions.

Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill:

• Standard ticket costs €18 (valid for 24 hours).
• €24.00 for a Full entry experience ticket (valid for 48 hours).
• €2.00 (Reduced rate for EU citizens aged 18–25).

Trevi Fountain:

• €2.00 for close-up access to the lower basin steps (Daily 9:00 AM-10:00 PM).
• Free to view from the upper piazza level or to visit after 10:00 PM.

Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel:

• €20 is the standard fee, but online tickets include a €5 booking fee.
• €8 is the Student/Child reduced standard rate (for online ticket €5 booking fee).

St. Peter’s Basilica:

• Free for the main floor.
• €8.00 to climb the Dome (Cupola) through the stairs and €10.00 by lift.

Best For: 

History buffs, families, and first-time visitors.

Best Season: 

Spring (April-May) or fall (September-October).

Special Tip: 

Book Colosseum and Vatican tickets weeks in advance to skip long lines. Also, carry a reusable water bottle, because Rome has hundreds of ‘Nasoni’ (public fountains) providing free, cold, and high-quality drinking water.

Testimonials

“Apothetical. That’s the word that defines the Colosseo. Rome is living architecture and the Colosseum is its guardian. If you don’t get the tickets, don’t hurry. Walking around is already an unforgettable experience. Sit in the area and admire calmly.”  Miguel Gomez Corto (Jan 2026)

“Unforgetable. it was a unique experience. Rome is romantic, I can not wait to go back. in April the temperatures were perfect for 3 days to tour the city. Impeccable food, clean spaces and youthful shops. Rome is the perfect city for an Italian holiday. I loved it. it’s one thing to love, it’s another thing to love in Rome.”  Lucia B (Jan 2026)

“Fontana di Trevi is the most beautiful place to visit in Rome. Absolutely outstanding and breathtaking in every way. The grandeur of the fountain, the intricate sculptures, and the sound of the flowing water create a magical atmosphere, especially when illuminated at night. Standing in front of it truly feels like stepping into history and art at the same time. An unforgettable experience and a must-see landmark in Rome..” ALMD (Jan 2026)

3. Amsterdam, Netherlands

The thing that makes this city so special is that here you will find more boats and bicycles than cars. In this city, you will see a glimpse of the golden era of the 17th century. That’s what makes this city so unique. It’s highly modern, but it gives you a classic aesthetic vibe.

For art lovers, the Van Gogh Museum is a must-see. It houses the largest collection of Vincent van Gogh’s paintings, including his famous sunflowers and distinct art style. Equally moving is Anne Frank’s House, preserved exactly as it was, including the secret rooms where Anne Frank lived and wrote her diary during World War II.

Another highlight is the Rijksmuseum, one of the largest museums in Amsterdam, where you can admire famous Dutch artworks by Rembrandt.

Visiting Place Locations

Amsterdam is a very compact city, with most of these places clustered around the Museum Quarter or along the central canals. As a result, here’s where the mentioned spots are located.

Pricing for 2026

Amsterdam updates its prices every year. Therefore, in 2026, museum fees have risen slightly to support preservation. Consequently, here’s the latest pricing for the city’s top landmarks

Rijksmuseum:

• Adults (19+): €27.00
• Under 18: Free entry

Van Gogh Museum:

• Adults: €25.00
• Students (with ID): €15.00
• Under 18: Free entry

Anne Frank House:

• Adults: €16.50 (Includes €1.00 booking fee)
• Ages 10-17: €7.50
• Ages 0-9: €2.00
• Optional 30-min Introductory Program: +€7.00

Canal Cruise:

• Standard 1-hour tour: €19.00-€24.00

Bike Rental:

• Daily average: €12.00-€15.00 (plus insurance)

Best For: 

Solo travellers, couples, culture seekers.

Best Season: 

April-May or September.

Special Tip: 

If you’re walking alongside a bike, stay on the sidewalk. Avoid riding there, since getting caught by the police can cost you €60 or more. Bike lanes have strict regulations, so observe and follow the local cyclists’ way.

Testimonials

“When it comes to Amsterdam, it’s an essential home museum to stop by. There’s a lot of trouble buying tickets. Not taking in in the cold. Highly recommend buying tickets online.Thanks.”  Cenk1968 (Jan 2026)

“Excellent museum managed and cared for in every detail. Audio guide excellent and precise in the story of life and works. Not to be missed.”  Luca C (Jan 2026)

“This museum is huge and has an enormous collection of exhibits over several floors. There is also a cafe and a large gift and bookshop. No visit to Amsterdam is complete without visiting here. It might take several visits to view and appreciate everything as there is so much to see. Staff are friendly enough and the location is easy to get to using public transport and is close to several other museums, all only several. minutes walk away. Looking forward to another visit on my next trip to Amsterdam.” Reservarlden (Jan 2026)

4. Vienna, Austria

Vienna feels both royal and calm, which makes it one of the most beautiful historic cities in Europe. Walking through the city feels like stepping into a royal story. Iconic landmarks such as Schönbrunn Palace, Hofburg Palace, and St. Stephen’s Cathedral reflect the power of the old empire, while classical music fills the air, as Mozart once performed here and concerts continue to bring the city’s stunning halls to life.

Beyond its history and music, Vienna is also famous for its café culture. Visitors can spend hours enjoying coffee, indulging in cakes like Sachertorte, and soaking in the relaxed, charming atmosphere.

Best For: 

Music lovers, romantic couples, and families.

Best Season: 

April-May or September-October

Visiting Place Locations

Vienna’s imperial landmarks are mainly concentrated along the Ringstrasse, also called the Ring Road, while a few important sites lie toward the outskirts of the city.

Pricing for 2026

Vienna’s entry fees have been updated for the 2026 season. For reference, here are the most current rates:

Schönbrunn Palace:

• €28.00 (Imperial Tour – 22 rooms).
• €38.00 (Grand Tour – 40 rooms).
• €69.00 (Winter Pass – Includes Zoo, Desert House, and Palm House).

Hofburg Palace (Sisi Museum & Apartments):

• €20.00: Adult Standard Ticket.
• €57.00 (Sisi Pass – includes Schönbrunn and Furniture Museum).

St. Stephen’s Cathedral:

• Free to enter the main nave.
• €7.00 for the South Tower climb (Stairs).
• €7.00 for the North Tower (Lift/Elevator).
• €25.00 for the All-Inclusive Ticket (Catacombs, Towers, and Museum).

Testimonials 

“Pretty Cathedral. The entry way inside the cathedral is free, but you must pay a free to walk greeny around the rest of it. Worth it if you like Cathedrals like I do! You can also get a good look from the free section.'” Lauren (Jan 2026)

“The Hofburg is one of my top favourite place to visit while staying in Vienna. If you love architecture or not, it is for you! A must to see and visit place!.” OZS_ATW (Jan 2026)

“Initially thought the ticket was pricey but ended up spending 5 hrs there so got money’s worth. The Palace tour with audioguide started with the guide speaking as if it was the palace speaking and a little light show. Then into the palace rooms- we walked through 30-40 rooms each with commentary and explanations. The rooms are varied and you learn some history too. It was well done.

You can walk around the grounds and garden for free- gardens were all snow covered when I was there. The Gloriette is up a hill- a 15 min walk for some nice views- slippery when icy/ snowy.

If you want to visit the other sites/ museums they all cost- you can get a combined ticket for Palm and Desert Houses for 13.50 euro- not really worth that price! There’s a carriage museum and children’s museum too which we didnt visit. The bus stops right across the road so it’s easy to get to also.”  K72 (Jan 2026)

5. London, UK

Across the channel, London is a city where 2,000 years of history blend seamlessly with modern life. Walking through it feels like stepping through different time periods at once. Buckingham Palace hosts the famous Changing of the Guard, and the Tower of London continues to protect the Crown Jewels inside its ancient walls. Big Ben stands proudly by the Thames, Buckingham Palace hosts the famous Changing of the Guard, and the Tower of London continues to protect the Crown Jewels inside its ancient walls.

You can enjoy slow walks in Hyde Park, explore Borough Market for fresh oysters and artisan cheeses, and experience sightseeing from a classic double-decker bus. London offers a perfect mix of history, culture, and modern city life.

Visiting Place Locations

London is huge, but most of the royal landmarks are concentrated around Westminster and the north bank of the Thames. Below are the locations of the mentioned places.

Place	Exact Location / Address
Tower of London	It is located at London EC3N 4AB, just a short walk from the Tower Hill Station.
Buckingham Palace	It is situated at London SW1A 1AA, easily accessible through the paths of St. James’s Park.
Borough Market	It stands at 8 Southwark St, London SE1 1TL, right near the southern end of London Bridge.
Big Ben / Westminster	It is located at Westminster, London SW1A 0AA, overlooking the River Thames next to the Houses of Parliament.

Pricing for 2026

Many London attractions now use dynamic pricing, which means tickets are much cheaper when you book online in advance instead of buying them at the gate.

Tower of London:

• Adult (Standard Online): £35.80
• Child (Ages 5-15): £17.90

Buckingham Palace State Rooms:

• Adult (Age 25+): £33.00
• Young Person (18-24): £21.50
• Note: The interior is only open to the public from July 9 to September 27, 2026.

Changing of the Guard:

• Free to watch from outside the palace gates (Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 11:00 AM).

London Eye:

• Standard Online Ticket: Starts from £29.00
• Fast Track: £44.00

Borough Market:

• Free entry. Budget around £15-£20 for a high-quality street-food lunch.

Best For: 

Families, culture seekers, theatre enthusiasts

Best Season: 

April-May or September-October 

Special Tip: 

If you are visiting London, pre-book tickets for the Tower of London and West End shows so you don’t miss out. Additionally, many major museums are free, which lets you save money for some amazing pub meals.

Testimonials

“Took the kids and they absolutely loved it! Especially the Crown Jewels!“ Jon N (Jan 2026)

“Visited on a January Saturday and walked straight in to see the Crown Jewels, no waiting. Outside were queuing barriers marked “40 minutes wait” so glad I came when I did. Lots to see around this extensive site. The royal armouries exhibits in particular were very good and the Tudor graffiti in the Bloody Tower also really interesting.”  Mike (Jan 2026)

“This market is simply extraordinary! A continuous explosion of colors, scents and irresistible flavors that overwhelm you as you enter. There are foods from all over the world, with spectacular stalls offering cheeses, truffles, cold cuts and specialties of all kinds.

Seeing the freshly prepared dishes, right in front of your eyes, makes everything even more magical. It is a unique, engaging and unforgettable experience. A place that conquers you and that you absolutely cannot miss!”  M Lu (Jan 2026)

6. San Sebastián, Spain

San Sebastián is one of the most beautiful coastal cities in Europe. Overlooking the city on its right side, La Concha Bay enchants visitors with its graceful curve, Belle Époque buildings, and serene beach atmosphere, creating an elegant and peaceful vibe.

Beyond its stunning scenery, the city is also renowned for its food. Despite its small size, it boasts 11–13 Michelin stars. You can watch surfers ride the waves at Zurriola Beach or climb Monte Urgull for breathtaking views of the bay.

Visiting Place Locations

San Sebastián, or Donostia in Basque, sits beautifully between its two main hills and the sweeping bay. Specifically, here’s where the mentioned spots are located.

Pricing for 2026

While the city is known for luxury, many of its best experiences are still accessible—or even free. Here’s a look at the prices and other details.

Monte Urgull:

• Free to hike the trails and visit the Mota Castle grounds.
• Free to view the Sagrado Corazón (Sacred Heart) statue at the summit.

Pintxos & Gastronomy:

• €2.00-€6.00 per Pintxo (gourmet snack).
• €2.50-€4.00 for a glass of local Txakoli wine or cider.

Michelin Dining: Lunch menus start at €120- €180, while tasting menus at 3-star icons like Arzak or Akelarre can exceed €315- €370.

Zurriola Surfing:

• Surfboard + Wetsuit rental (2 hours): €25.00-€35.00.
• Group Surf Lesson: €45.00 – €55.00.

Monte Igueldo Funicular:

• €4.50 for round-trip adult ticket to see the best view of the seashell bay.

Best For: 

Food adventurers, surfers, active travellers

Special Season: 

May-June or September

Testimonials

“The sand is so fine, small, with golden color. So beautiful and at the end of the beach there is a wide walking zone like an arch. I mean, in summer, visitors find shade there and drink coffee as well.”  Mariya-Almila (Jan 2026) 

“We discovered this little spot and went late morning. When we arrived there were only a few other people at the waterfall. It started to get busier around lunchtime. The waterfall is beautiful that flows into a pool and then over flat rock into a stream. It gets VERY slippery on the flat rocks, so be careful when crossing over to get to the pool.

The water is cool, not cold which is very refreshing. You can swim across the pool up to the side of the falls. On one side of the pool, there is a knotted rope that you can use to pull yourself up to the rock ledge. The water is deep and you can jump feet first into the pool and not touch bottom. There are several levels of jumping spots as you get more brave. We went with family ranging from 13 – 50.” – Melissa H (Aug-2025)

“These waterfalls are very good there is one waterfall on the top where they have a rope hanging from which you can hang and just have a free fall into the pool under the waterfall. It is a great view and a small walk to get there. The second waterfall which is the lower one is also very good and it also has an excellent view. I recommend these waterfalls for anyone who wants to see what the falls when close to Rincon area.” – AB1975 (March 2025)

7. Salzburg, Austria

Salzburg feels like a city straight out of a storybook, where Mozart’s music seems to fill the air at every corner. The old town, with its narrow streets, apple strudel cafés, and horse-drawn carriages passing by Mozart statues, effortlessly transports visitors to another era.

Among the city’s highlights are Mirabell Gardens, Nonnberg Abbey, and the famous do-re-mi steps, all as magical as their reputation suggests, making Salzburg a must-visit for music lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

Visiting Place Locations

Salzburg is easy to explore on foot, with the Salzach River splitting the historic Old Town from the newer districts. For instance, here’s where these places are located.

Place	Exact Location / Address
Hohensalzburg Fortress	It is perched atop the Mönchsberg hill, accessible via a funicular ride from the Old Town.
Mirabell Gardens	It is located on the right bank of the river, directly in front of the Mirabell Palace.
Mozart’s Birthplace	It is situated in the heart of the pedestrian zone at Getreidegasse No. 9, inside the famous yellow house.
Nonnberg Abbey	It is tucked on the slopes of the Festungsberg hill, just below the main fortress walls.

Pricing for 2026

Here are the standard entry fees for the 2026 season.

Hohensalzburg Fortress:

• €17.80 for a standard ticket (including funicular ride up/down and museums).
• €14.30 for a Basic ticket (if you choose to hike up the hill).

Mozart’s Birthplace:

• Adult: €15.50
• Combination Ticket (Birthplace + Mozart Residence): €25.00

Mirabell Gardens & “Do-Re-Mi” Steps:

• Free: The gardens and the famous steps from The Sound of Music have no entry fee.

Salzburg Cathedral:

• €5.00: Includes audio guide; free for worshipers during mass.

Salzburg Card (24 Hours):

• €31.00-.€3500

Best For:

Music fans, couples, Sound of Music enthusiasts

Special Season: 

April-June or September-October

Important Note: 

If you’re visiting in early January 2026, keep in mind that the FestungsBahn funicular to Hohensalzburg Fortress closes for annual maintenance starting January 12. After that date, you’ll need to walk up the footpath instead. For more details, click here.

Testimonials

“Definitely something you should visit if you are in the city. The fortress itself is amazing, and so are the views – if you can go during sunset, I strongly advise you do. After having done it, if you like walking I can say the funicular is not really necessary, so if the queue is too long, you should consider just walking up/down, as well as going up the tower for the view.” – Sebas M (Dec 2025)

“Impressive Salzburg Fortress. Very cool fortress castle overlooking Salzburg. Excellent museum displays inside explaining the history of the castle and area. Cool dining opportunities along the walls overlooking the city and countryside. Be ready for some stairs and cobblestones – it’s old Europe!” – No Moss Here (Dec – 2025)

“MIRABELL GARDENS SALZBURG. Mirabell Palace and gardens as we pass the Salzburg River through the bridge to Cafe Sachere. Unfortunately, the flowers were missing due to the winter conditions.” – ViVa (Jan – 2026)

8. Rovaniemi, Finland

Rovaniemi feels like stepping straight into a Christmas story. As night falls, the sky lights up with the green glow of the Northern Lights, creating a magical backdrop for the city. Santa Claus Village is a must-visit place in Europe, where visitors can feed reindeer, ride sleighs, and soak in a festive atmosphere that feels like a real-life holiday movie.

During winter, the magic intensifies. Staying in a glass igloo gives you the chance to watch the Northern Lights from the comfort of your bed, as green curtains dance across the sky. With its snowy landscapes, festive spirit, and unique experiences, Rovaniemi in winter is pure magic and an unforgettable destination.

Visiting Place Locations

Rovaniemi is the capital of Lapland, with most of the festive spots just a few kilometers north of the city center, right on the Arctic Circle. Specifically, here’s where they are.

Pricing for 2026

Lapland is a premium spot, especially during the 2026 winter season. Here’s a breakdown of the usual costs:

Santa Claus Village:

• Free Entry to the village and to meet Santa (interaction only).
• €55.00 for professional photo/video packages with Santa.

Winter Activities (Average 2026 Rates):

• Reindeer Sleigh Ride (Short 800m path): €90.00+ per adult 30-minute ride.
• Husky Safari (approx. 5km): €110.00 – €150.00+ per person.
• Snowman World (Ice slides/skating): €35.00 (Full-day pass).

Arktikum Science Centre:

• Adults: €22.00
• Children (7–17): €10-€17.

Glass Igloo Stays:

• Prices vary by demand, but expect to pay €500 – €920+ per night during the peak winter months (Dec–Feb). Shoulder season (March/October) can drop to €350+.

Best For:

Families, Northern Lights chasers, winter adventure seekers

Special Season: 

December-March

Practical Tip: 

Book glass igloos and Santa visits months ahead for Christmas week. And don’t forget to rent thermal suits for outdoor activities. One more tip for you: use Aurora forecast apps to time your night hunts.

Testimonials

“Had a wonderful time in Santa clause village, we was lucky to have snow the whole time we was there which made it so magical! It wasn’t as busy as I was expecting, and we loved it. If you want to do the husky ride you’ll need to pre book way in advance, we missed out on this as it was a last minute trip.

We paid €30 each to meet the huskies instead, you get to feed them a couple of treats and play with them for 30 minutes. We also met Santas pets which was cute and worth the price of €15 per adult. Overall a great place, lots of sledging areas too which were very enjoyable.” – Ryan B (Jan 2026)

“Really good experience. The staff picked us up in Rovaniemi and drove us to the park, which is 30 minutes away. We were able to feed and touch reindeers, use sleds and grill sausages and marshmallows in a typical Finnish tepee. After that we could drive snowmobiles in the forest. It costs extra fees but it is an amazing experience ! The staff is really kind and the place was really quite and peaceful. I recommend this activity a 100% if you want to enjoy the Finnish experience in a calm and cheaper place than the Santa Claus Village.“ – Margot R (Jan 2026)

“Really nice experience! It wasnt very busy so it was even nicer to Explorer everything. Looooved the reindeer🥰” – Magdalena F (Jan 2026)

Conclusion: 

These cities are best places to visit in Europe for first time travellers because they offer the full European experience. You’ll see the famous landmarks everyone talks about, and at the same time, get a glimpse of real neighbourhoods where local life happens. With good transport, walkable streets, and a welcoming vibe, exploring becomes easy and enjoyable.

Remember to book your tickets online to skip long lines and pack light for easier train travel. Also, leave some space in your schedule for wandering, because Europe’s best treasures are often found in the streets, not on a checklist. For anyone planning their first European adventure, these cities truly represent the best places to visit in Europe for first-time travellers.

FAQs

What is the best time to visit Europe for first-timers?

Generally, the best time to visit most European cities is late spring (April–June) or early fall (September–October). During this season, the weather is perfect and the crowds are much smaller than in summer. Additionally, popular attractions are easier to enjoy without long lines.

Do I need to speak the local language to travel in Europe?

Not at all. In fact, English works just fine in most tourist spots, especially in cities like Amsterdam, Copenhagen, and London. However, I’d still recommend downloading Google Translate for menus or signs so that you can navigate more smoothly.

What’s the biggest mistake first-time European travellers make?

Overplanning is a common pitfall. For example, trying to see five cities in seven days usually means you spend more time on trains than actually enjoying anything. Instead, focus on 2–3 cities and allow time to explore at a relaxed pace.