Europe Holidays & Travel Guide for Australians

May–June and September–October are the sweet spot for most of Europe — warm, long days without the peak-summer crowds and prices. July–August is hottest and busiest; winter brings Christmas markets and the Northern Lights.

Because the flights are long, most Australians give Europe at least two to three weeks. A fortnight suits one or two countries done well; a month lets you string the classics together without rushing.

As a rough daily guide on the ground, budget around $150–250 a day, mid-range $250–500, and luxury $500 and up — Portugal, Greece and the Balkans cheaper, Scandinavia and Switzerland dearer. Flights are on top, and we'll quote your trip properly.

For the Schengen area you can visit visa-free for up to 90 days in any 180. The EU's new ETIAS authorisation is being rolled out and the UK requires an ETA — we confirm exactly what your itinerary needs.

Both work well. An escorted tour takes the planning off your plate and is brilliant for first-timers; independent rail travel gives you freedom. Many travellers mix the two — see our escorted tours page.

Fast trains link most major cities and are often quicker than flying once you count airport time. For the islands and coast, ferries and small-ship cruises come into their own — we'll plan the right mix.