One of the best parts of traveling in Europe? Getting around is usually way easier than you expect. With trains, buses, and public transit everywhere, you don’t need a rental car to see the sights. Here’s how I navigate like a local.

Just Walk

Walking is free, gives you a feel for the city, and lets you stumble upon hidden gems. The first time I was in Rome, my Airbnb host told me the best thing we could do was get lost in the city. I’ve stumbled upon some extraordinary sites this way.

Wear comfortable shoes. Cobblestones are charming, but your feet will notice. Do not wear heels. I repeat, DO NOT WEAR HEELS.
Plan your routes with Google Maps to see what’s within walking distance.

Take Trains Between Cities

Europe’s train system is usually fast, reliable, and often more scenic than flying. Inclement weather will occasionally get in the way but overall, I’ve had good experiences utilizing Europe’s trains.

Use apps or websites for major train companies to check schedules and book tickets.
High-speed trains can get you from city to city in just a few hours. This makes day trips doable without needing to change hotels every few days.

Use Public Transit Within Cities

Most major cities have metros, trams, and buses.

Check transit maps or Google Maps for real-time schedules.
Buy multi-day or group tickets to save money.
Research local rules. Some cities, like Rome and Nice, require tickets to be validated before or during boarding. Yes, they check.

Use Taxi Apps

Apps like Free Now, taxi.eu, or Uber work in many European cities.

Great for late nights, when you have luggage, or when public transit doesn’t make sense.
Keep in mind rates vary by city. Sometimes a metro or tram is cheaper and faster.

Helpful Apps for Travelers

Google Translate – Perfect for menus, signs, or just chatting with locals.

eSIM Cards (like Airalo) – Activate a virtual local SIM on your phone. Cheaper than daily international data fees and keeps you connected.

Google Maps – Not just for driving! Live updates for walking, transit, and trains make navigating stress-free. If you don’t want to use data, you can download maps of the cities you’re visiting to use offline. I’ve screen captured recommended public transit routes before leaving WiFi to save as well.

Quick Tips

Plan your route, but don’t overthink it. Most European cities are surprisingly walkable.
Keep small change handy for buses or trams that don’t accept cards. Most do but it’s best to be prepared.
Always double-check your train or metro times. Some lines close early.

Getting around Europe can be easy, affordable, and even fun. With a few apps and a little planning, you’ll feel like a local in no time. You will get lost at some point, but don’t sweat it. Think of it as the scenic route.