European Tour Guides Reveal the 10 Big Mistakes Tourists Make on International Trips-and What to Do Instead

"Europe is the most visited continent in the world, welcoming 747 million tourists in 2024, according to the UN World Tourism Organization. Yet, the number of travel faux pas tourists make while strolling the streets of Milan, meandering through ancient ruins in Athens, or cruising around the Mediterranean remains pretty high, considering the increase in visits to Europe's major cities."

""In Rome (and most historic European cities), cobblestones and uneven streets make high heels a dangerous game," Kenny Dunn, CEO & Founder of Eating Europe, told Travel + Leisure-and yet, so many tourists take their chances. While "style is everything" in Italy, he quipped, you'd be better off packing and wearing flat shoes like Vionic's popular Uptown Loafers to "avoid a very unfashionable fall" that could potentially ruin your trip."

Europe welcomed 747 million tourists in 2024, creating more opportunities for common travel mistakes in major cities. Tour guides report frequent errors such as disrespecting local customs, getting pickpocketed, forgetting sunscreen, and overpacking. Two tour operators recommend practical, affordable solutions to reduce mishaps and improve travel experiences. Advice includes wearing flat, broken-in shoes to navigate cobblestones, avoiding high heels to prevent falls, and carrying small euro coins because tipping practices differ across Europe. Specific travel essentials mentioned include supportive loafers and compact wristlet wallets to protect belongings and simplify transactions.

Read at Travel + Leisure