Tipping is Really Different in Europe
American tourists tend to have a lot of preconceived notions when traveling abroad. They might assume that everyone in Europe speaks English or that servers in other countries expect a tip after every meal. Before boarding your next flight to Vienna, here are 20 common mistakes every American tourist makes in Europe.
1. Expecting English to Be a Common Language
Yes, English is widely spoken across Europe, but you can't assume that every European you encounter understands the language or is willing to speak it. Doing so will make you come across as arrogant. Many Europeans appreciate it when visitors attempt basic greetings in the local language, so take some time to familiarize yourself with a few.
2. Not Having Cash
Europe is credit card-friendly, but it's a mistake not to carry a bit of cash with you. Small restaurants or markets might be cash only, and coins are also valuable for small tips or to use vending machines.
3. Assuming Driving is the Same in the U.S.
No American should get behind the wheel in a European country unless they know the local rules of the road. European roads are narrower, and parking is more challenging. Traffic signs might also differ from what Americans are used to.
4. Expecting Free Refills
Throughout most of Europe, soft drinks and coffee refills aren't free. Tap water is typically offered, but don't expect bottomless refills of soda. European dining is all about smaller portions and a slower pace of eating.
5. Rushing Through Meals
Europeans don't eat like Americans. They eat dinner later at night and treat meals as a social experience. It's not just a fuel stop on your way out the door for the evening. In Europe, dining is relaxed and lingering is expected.
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6. Tipping
Tipping is very different in Europe than it is in America. Tipping etiquette varies widely across the continent. Sometimes, service charges are included in the bill, or the standard tip is only 5 to 10%. Americans often leave 20% realizing this might be confusing or insulting to the locals.
7. Overpacking
Europe is rife with cobblestone streets, small cars, and old hotels without elevators, all of which make carrying heavy luggage a nightmare. Americans typically pack far too much when they should be packing light, and it's smart to travel with versatile clothing.
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8. Not Accounting for Jet Lag
Cross-Atlantic flights can disrupt your sleep cycle. Many tourists don't account for jet lag in their itineraries and start sightseeing right after the plane lands. Make sure your first travel day is light to reset your internal clock.
9. Ignoring Trains and Public Transport
Europe has an efficient and scenic rail system that more American tourists should take advantage of. Americans often rent cars, only to miss out on stress-free and high-speed connections like Paris to Amsterdam or Rome to Florence. Learn how to read train schedules and validate tickets.
10. Expecting Big Hotel Rooms
European hotels are often smaller than American chains. The rooms are compact, and there are fewer amenities. Don't expect air conditioning, large beds, and don't be surprised by a lack of elevators.
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11. Trying to Visit Too Many Countries
American tourists often treat Europe like a big amusement park designed to be raced through in only a few days. All this will do is make you exhausted and ensure that you don't get enough time to take anything in.
12. Sticking to American Food
Refusing to immerse yourself in local cuisines as you travel Europe is a missed opportunity. Many Americans go for the chains they recognize and avoid trying the local specialties. Europe's culinary scene is world-renowned, so make sure you experience all it offers.
13. Forgetting to Get a SIM Card or eSIM
Don't rely on your U.S. data plan when traveling in Europe. This can lead to high roaming fees. Buy a local SIM card or eSIM to get data to have access to translation apps, maps, and information at a low cost.
14. Disrespecting Religious Sites
Cathedrals and monasteries don't exist solely for tourists. They're active places of worship. Many American tourists forget to dress modestly or stay quiet when inside. Research the dress code and appropriate conduct before visiting any European religious site.
15. Misunderstanding Coffee Culture
You can't order coffee in Europe the same way you do in an American city. A latte in Italy just means milk, and takeout coffee isn't always a thing. Most Europeans drink espresso or small cappuccinos while standing at a counter.
16. Forgetting to Notify Banks
Always notify your American bank if you're traveling to Europe and intend to use your accounts. Foreign transactions can trigger fraud alerts and freeze your accounts. Preparation prevents the stress that will come with a declined payment in Greece.
17. Not Booking Attractions in Advance
Going to the Eiffel Tower or the Vatican Museum without booking in advance can get you turned away at the door. These attractions sell out weeks in advance, especially during Europe's peak tourist season.
18. Being Loud in Public
Not all Americans are loud, but they can still be louder than the average European local. Don't underestimate how quiet Europeans are in public, and ensure that the volume of your conversations doesn't draw unwanted attention.
19. Not Understanding the Power Plug Station
European outlets use 220 volts and different plug types than what's available in North America. Bringing only American chargers can fry your devices or make them unusable.
20. Expecting Everything to Be Open Late
Except in most major European cities, stores and restaurants tend to close early, especially on Sundays. Americans expecting 24-hour convenience will be disappointed when looking for a meal after nine at night.
