Planning your first trip to Europe is a dream come true: cobblestone streets, centuries-old castles, gondola rides and mountain views. However, realistically, the thought of visas, budgets, itineraries can overwhelm you enough to drain away the excitement. The good part?
With a little planning and some smart decisions, your first European adventure can be smooth , memorable and truly magical.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you plan your perfect Europe trip from India:
Before diving into destinations, decide how long you can travel and what kind of experience you want; explore Europe tour packages if required. Are you the type of person who loves art, culture and museums or do you prefer scenic landscapes, cozy villages and leisurely walks?
For a first-timer, 10-15 days is perfect, with enough time to explore a few countries without rushing. Pick 3-4 destinations and spend atleast 3 days in each. A classic route for first-timers includes Paris, Switzerland and Italy while a more relaxed route could be Austria, Czech Republic and Hungary.
Europe can fit quite a lot of budgets but a vague idea always helps plan better. A 10-day trip for two can cost somewhere between 2.5 to 4.5 lakhs, depending on your travel style.
Quick breakdown:
Flights (India – Europe round trip) : Rs. 60,000 – 1,00,000 per person Accommodation: Rs. 6000-12000 per night for a mid-range hotel
Food: Rs. 2000-5000 per day for two
Intra-Europe travel (trains/flights): Rs. 15,000-30,000 per person
Tip: Travel during shoulder seasons, i.e., April – June and September – October to save money and avoid tourist crowds
The Schengan Visa allows you to visit 27 European countries with one visa: convenient and easy to apply for.
Once you’ve chosen your destinations, plan your rote in a logical flow.
For example:
Paris → Lucerne → Venice → Rome works better than jumping between countries randomly.
Use apps like Rome2Rio or Omio to compare transport options. High-speed trains like Eurail or FlixBus can save both time and money.
Avoid cramming too much into your trip: Europe is meant to be experienced slowly. Take time to sip coffee at a local cafe, wander through small towns, and chat with locals.
The earlier you book, the better the deals. Start tracking flights 2-3 months before your trip using tools like SkyScanner or Google Flights.
For accommodation. try a couple of boutique hotels, a cozy Airbnb, or even a countryside villa for a night. It adds variety to your trip and gives you a true feel of Europe’s diversity.
Europe in most months involves a lot of walking, so pack comfortable shoes. Carry versatile outfits that you can mix and match. Don’t forget to carry essentials like a universal adapter travel insurance, and a small backpack for day trips.
If its your flrst Europe trip, planning can feel daunting. This is where Travassa Travel Experts step in. From helping you curate your itinerary to sorting out visas, hotel bookings, and transportation, Travassa takes care of everything. With their local insights and personalized guidance, you can skip the stress and focus on creating lifelong memories.
Your first trip to Europe will always hold a special place in your heart: its not just about seeing new places, but about experiencing new ways of life. With careful planning and a touch of expert help, you can turn your European dream into a reality, filled with laughter, sunsets, and stories you’ll tell for years to come. So, pack your wanderlust, grab your partner or your best travel buddy, and let Europe unfold its timeless charm before you.
Q. How much does a Europe trip from India typically cost?
A well-planned 10-15 day trip for two usually costs somewhere between Rs. 2.5-4.5 lakhs, depending on the destinations, travel style and season.
Q. How far in advance should I start planning my Europe trip?
Ideally, start planning atleast 3-4 months before your travel dates, to have enough time to research destinations, gather documents, apply for the Schengen visa and grab good flights and hotel deals.
