So you’ve decided it’s finally time: your dream trip to Europe is happening! Amazing. But now comes the hard part, deciding where to go.

I’ve been there, staring at maps for hours, feeling completely overwhelmed. The good news? There’s no “wrong” way to pick your destination and you can go more than once. Here are three approaches that work for me every time.

Go to That Place You Haveto See Before You Die

Maybe it’s Paris and that dream of posing in front of the Eiffel Tower wearing a cheesy beret or Rome for the history or Santorini for the views.

If your heart is set on a specific place, go there. To make the most of your time:

• Map out the big attractions you must see.
• Figure out which airport(s) are closest.
• Estimate how many days you’ll need.
  

You don’t need to plan every second yet, just get a high-level idea so your trip is realistic.

Go Where the Flights Are Cheapest

This is my personal favorite! Sometimes the cheapest ticket can help you discover a city you never even considered. Some of my favorite trips have started with a cheap plan ticket.

Here’s the approach:

• Start with your home airport.
• Check flight search engines like Google Flights or Going.com.
• Let the prices tell you where to go. Sometimes it’s cheaper to fly into Barcelona than Berlin, and suddenly your dream trip takes a new, exciting turn.
  

Travel is about adventure and saving a few hundred dollars is never a bad way to start.

Go Somewhere That Feels Less Intimidating

Does the thought of traveling somewhere with a language barrier make your palms sweat? Totally normal. Been there.

It’s okay to start somewhere more familiar. Countries like England, Ireland, and Scotland are great options if you want to be sure locals speak English. Starting here can give you confidence for your next adventure.

Quick Tips for Picking Your Destination

• Don’t overthink it . The “perfect” trip doesn’t exist.
• Consider travel season: peak summer is more crowded and expensive; spring and fall are quieter and often cheaper.
• Consider what you love: food, history, beaches, or city vibes? Let your interests guide you.
  

The most important thing is just getting started. Once you pick a city, the rest falls into place. 

Europe isn’t scary — it’s waiting for you, and the first step is simply picking a place to start.