Europe First-Time Travel Guide — Everything You Should Know
First time in Europe? Check this guide. Visa, flights, Eurail, currency, accommodation, and safety tips — all covered.
Visa & Entry Requirements
Korean passport holders can enter Schengen countries (France, Germany, Italy, and 24 more) visa-free for 90 days. Starting 2025, ETIAS pre-registration may be required — check before departure. The UK is not part of Schengen and has separate entry requirements. Travel insurance isn't mandatory but is strongly recommended given high European medical costs.
Getting Around — Eurail vs Flights vs Buses
Eurail passes are convenient for multi-city trips, but always compare with budget airlines. Ryanair, EasyJet, etc. offer €20-50 fares when booked early. FlixBus is the cheapest option (€5-20). Tip: Trains are best for city-center to city-center travel, while flights save time on longer routes (e.g., Paris to Barcelona). The most efficient approach is mixing transport modes by segment.
Accommodation & Budget
Typical costs: Hostel dorm €20-40, Airbnb private room €50-80, Hotel €80-150. Western Europe (London, Paris, Zurich) is expensive; Eastern Europe (Prague, Budapest, Krakow) costs half or less. Daily budget guideline: Budget travel €60-80, Mid-range €100-150, Comfortable €200+. Credit cards (Visa/Mastercard) are widely accepted, but smaller shops and markets may require cash.
Safety & Useful Tips
Europe is generally safe, but watch for pickpockets in tourist cities — especially Barcelona, Rome, and the Paris Métro. Keep bags in front and never put wallets in back pockets. Useful apps: Google Maps (download offline maps), Google Translate (camera translation), Wise (minimize exchange fees). Plugs: Most of Europe uses Type C (round 2-pin), so bring an adapter.
Interested in this destination? Create your own itinerary with AI!
Plan with OtterPlan
