Tour Guides Spill Their Biggest Complaints About Tourists-and 10 Items That Will Make You Blend in With Locals

"Europe is the most visited continent in the world, welcoming 747 million tourists in 2024, according to The UN's World Tourism Organization. Yet, the number of travel faux pas you can expect to see 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."

"Chelmon Leather Change Holder We live in such a digital, on-demand world that today, everyone assumes they can tip on their credit card receipt. "One of the biggest surprises for Americans is that in much of Europe, there's no line to add a tip on the card slip," Dunn shared. That's because tipping isn't in their culture, but Americans still might wish to add gratuity for excellent service. "The solution is keeping some euro c"

""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 received 747 million tourists in 2024, making it the world's most visited continent. Tour guides frequently observe common traveler mistakes such as disrespecting local customs, falling victim to pickpockets, forgetting sunscreen, and overpacking. Many tourists wear impractical shoes on cobblestones, increasing fall risk and blisters. Tipping customs differ across Europe, so relying on credit-card tip lines can cause surprises; carrying euros for gratuities can help. Affordable travel essentials like flat, broken-in shoes and compact change holders reduce discomfort and cultural faux pas. Simple precautions and small purchases can improve safety, comfort, and cultural respect while traveling in Europe.

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