Skip to main content
EF Go Ahead Tours logo

5 tips for traveling safely in Europe

Find a few common-sense things you can do to travel safely in Europe.

Going to a new place is always exciting, and you’re bound to have plenty of adventures. It’s likely your trip to Europe will be fun and worry-free—and you can travel with added peace of mind knowing our team of experts has your back. Still, there are a few common-sense things you can do to travel safely in Europe. See our tips below!

Stick with your Tour Director’s suggestions

They’re your local expert, and go-to resource for exploring your destination. If you have any questions during your trip, they’ll be the ones with all the answers!

Leave cash and valuables in your room

You can use the safe in your hotel room to store your passport, extra cash, and any valuables you don’t need with you. Just set a reminder on your phone for the day you check out so you don’t leave anything behind. You may want to make photocopies or take pictures of important documents, like your passport and license—just in case.

During the day, carry small amounts of cash with you; many stores and restaurants in Europe will accept major credit cards like Visa or Mastercard. If you find yourself needing more euros, francs, or pounds, you can always hit an ATM!

Pay attention

Whether it’s double-checking before crossing the road or making sure you jot down the name of your hotel, the little things go a long way when it comes to staying happy (and safe) on the road. You don’t need to exert any more caution during your trip than you would at home—look both ways, stay alert in crowded spaces, and keep your personal belongings close to you.

Know who to call

During your trip, our On-Tour Support Team will be on-call for you 24/7, so you’ll never be on your own if any issues arise. You can also ask your Tour Director to share their phone number so you can text or call them if you need. It’s a good idea to take note of the emergency number in your destination, too—for instance, if you’re traveling within the EU, you can dial 112.

Register your trip

With the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, you can get alerts about your trip and stay connected to a local embassy or consulate through the U.S. State Department. Canadian travelers get a similar service through the Registration of Canadians Abroad, too!

Do you have any questions about traveling in Europe? Reach our experts at social@goaheadtours.com

About the author

Go Ahead Tours team

We’re a team of passionate travel experts, dedicated to helping people explore the world. From inspiring stories to tips for an amazing trip, the topics we cover are all about getting you out there and making discoveries.

Related tours

Skip to end of carousel
New in ’24 Sale

Save up to $300† on our new tours

Be one of the first travelers on our 25+ new tours. From the beaches of Bali to the Scottish Highlands, our new trips span the globe—find yours by 12/23.

Skip to start of carousel

More travel inspiration

Skip to end of carousel
World Travel

EF’s Responsible Supplier Guidelines

Destinations

Things to do in Lima, Peru, to experience its rich history and culture

Destinations

Your guide to the Mesa Verde cliff dwellings: ancient civilizations hidden in Colorado’s canyons

Travel tips

Exploring Himeji Castle: Japan’s graceful White Heron

Destinations

10 fun facts about Seoul’s Gyeongbokgung Palace and how to visit on tour

Travel tips

Things to do in Buenos Aires: The museums, galleries & street art you need to see on your next trip

Travel tips

The 12 best things to do in Buenos Aires for first-time travelers and returning visitors

Destinations

The best time to visit Japan: your month-to-month guide to planning the perfect Japanese vacation

Destinations

Exploring Arenal Volcano: Costa Rica’s sleeping giant

Travel tips

A food lover’s guide to Lima: What and where to eat on your next trip to Peru

Travel buzz

Is Colombia safe to visit? How a nation overcame conflict to welcome the world

Destinations

The best time to visit Costa Rica: a season-by-season guide to planning the perfect Costa Rican vacation

Travel tips

24 Hawaiian phrases and words to know before you go

Destinations

9 must-see attractions in Cartagena, Colombia

Travel tips

Lake Balaton, Tokaj, and Eger: These 3 Hungary wine regions are the hidden gems of Eastern Europe

Travel tips

Your one-stop packing list for vacation

Travel tips

How to spend 10 days in Turkey as a solo traveler

Travel buzz

Feeling the loneliness epidemic? You’re not alone! Here’s how guided group travel leads to new connections

Travel buzz

The best places to visit in 2024 and 2025 to see the northern lights

Travel buzz

A conversation about our new Pride Tours and EF Go Ahead Tours’ commitment to LGBTQ+ traveler trust

Skip to start of carousel