What to Wear in Europe: 20+ Easy Tips Every Tourist Needs {2024}

So you're heading off on a trip to Europe? Starting to pack for the trip? Your favorite Europe travel guide has rounded-up some easy tips about what to pack, how to prepare, and what to wear once you've arrived in Europe. The tips you need to look perfect in Europe.

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Packing for a trip ​to Europe? 
​Wondering what you're supposed to wear?​

Wondering how you look stylish on a trip to Europe, while being comfortable enough to walk around *all day everyday* for 10 days? It's a hard nut to crack, but after 6 trips "across the pond" over 4 years, I do consider myself an expert.

I've collected some "go-to" outfits that are chic and stylish, without being uncomfortable. Who knew that combination existed? I certainly didn't - and you'll note you won't be seeing any pictures from my first trip to Europe, because I've metaphorically burned all the the ones with me in them.

Wait. Are you saying travel is all about
​what I'm wearing?

I am *not* saying that traveling is all about appearances, though, I do write about the subject quite often.

Traveling is about exploring, seeing the world, expanding your horizons, and learning how other people live.

It can be one of the most enriching experiences, and getting out there and taking a chance should always top your list.

That said, you're here to learn about clothes.

I will argue that feeling comfortable and confident is part of my personal enjoyment of travel (and everyday life), and I know that many, many of you agree with me. I like to feel like I fit in, look good, and am representing myself well.

One of the things I really enjoy learning about when I'm abroad is how people dress (it was in England that I discovered my love of Barbour) and how social normal differ from what I'm used to (read: endless saying of "Bonjour!" in France).

So, I've rounded up my tips to help you figure out what to wear in Europe, without looking like a tourist (at least to the extent possible). Here we go!

Couldn't resist a photoshoot in Strasbourg, France

My goal is to give *real* tips for *real people* traveling to Europe.

What to Wear in Europe:
Preparing for Your Trip

Let's start at the very beginning! What do you need to do to prepare for a trip to Europe (outside of all of the planning of the trip itself - for more on that, check out the full post: How to Plan a Trip to Europe!). 

Part of the logistics of preparing for a long trip are simply that a longer vacation than most people usually take. And, of course, you are going somewhere that maybe you've never been, or that you've only been a couple of times.

Packing cubes for Europe

No post about traveling to Europe would be complete with out a quick plug: be sure to order some packing cubes for your trip.

They make all of your packing easier and allow you to stay organized in your tiny, European hotel room.

Checking the weather forecast

As with any trip that's largely dependent on outdoor activities, you should do a deep dive on the weather forecast before your trip to Europe.

​In general, and regardless of the time of year, the weather in Europe is milder than the weather we experience here in North America (at least in Indianapolis). Summers aren't as hot, winters aren't as cold, and they don't get as much snow, if you're visiting in winter.

In general, plan for light layers and you'll do just fine.

A neutral palette

Make the most of your limited suitcase space by sticking to mix-and-matchable neutral colors. You can't predict how many outfits you'll need to make during your trip, and being able to change things up at the last minute is key. Additionally, European women tend toward a more subdued palette and fewer bright colors, so you'll fit in better with the crowd.


Further, I'd steer toward solid colors and avoid graphic tees, slogans, and logos. Stick to timeless pieces.

Best nail polishes for a trip to Europe

As most Americans stay in Europe at least a week, how are you to keep your nails looking fresh throughout the trip? You certainly want to avoid spending your time at the nail salon or hunting for nail polish remover at a pharmacy during your trip. 

Thanks to the advent of "gel" nail polish, you can keep your nails looking fresh for your entire trip. I generally can keep my gel manicure for about two weeks. If you haven't used gel before,  definitely try out gel before your European trip, to ensure that it works for you. 

And, if all of this is just a bit much, or if you'll be taking an active vacation and don't want to worry about your nails, why not get a manicure with all the shaping and cuticle procedures, but *without polish*?

Packing jewelry for a trip to Europe

It goes without saying that the majority of countries in Europe are extremely safe. That said, it's travel itself, not specific countries, that makes traveling with jewelry always a bit risky.

Make sure all of your important jewelry (engagement and wedding rings, etc.) are insured before you go. 

If you're worried about those expensive pieces, leave them at home. I recently got a diamond eternity band from Noemie, that I'm planning to take to Europe in place of my usual rings.

I bring only as much jewelry as I can wear on a normal day, and I wear it each and every day. That way, I'm not leaving it in the hotel room or getting confused about whether or not I have everything.

Make-up for a trip to Europe

I try to keep my travel make-up fairly light. I find Europeans don't wear a ton of make-up, and they seem to have a great way of looking chic without it. For tourists, I don't want to have runny mascara, or eye shadow up to my eyebrows at the end of a long day.

My make-up essentials:

• Tinted moisturizer with sunscreen
• Blush
• Mascara
• Eyebrow pencil 
• Long-wear cream eye shadow

Wearing the right clothes on the plane

Your outfit for a long-haul flight to Europe serves several purposes. In addition to keeping you comfortable during a frankly grueling flight across the Atlantic Ocean, it's also an opportunity to bring items with you, outside of your suitcase. I would not wear a shirt or pants that you intend to wear throughout your trip, as they'll be 'airplane filthy' after you land. I would wear your heaviest shoes (generally booties or sneakers), to save room in your suitcase.


For all the details on flight attire, check out: What to Wear on a Long-Haul Flight to Europe

Packing the perfect carry-on

The most important thing to include in your carry-on bag is a full change of clothes for your first day in Europe.
Unfortunately, especially if you change plans, it's not uncommon for your luggage to get separated from you. In the event that happens, you still want to be able to hit the ground running, feeling fresh in a clean outfit. So, it's a
good idea to include pants, a shirt, deodorant, and a change of underwear and socks, in addition to a toothbrush and travel toothpaste in your carry-on bag.


For all the details on packing your bag, check out: Packing the Perfect Carry-On for a Flight to Europe

What to Wear in Europe: Logistics once you arrive

Styling your hair in a European hotel room

How are you going to look stylish if you don't have your normal hair styling products? 

Most hotels in Europe will have a hair dryer. But, when it comes to other styling devices, you'll need to have that adapter if you're going to want to use your straightener or curler. If this is your first trip to Europe, check out the full primer on A First Timer's Guide to Europe, to learn about buying adapters, finding coffee, and everything in between.

Of course, you don't want to spend your whole trip to Europe doing your hair. I just curl mine every other day, between washes. Don't forget the dry shampoo. While we American girls tend to each for baseball caps on our non-wash days, I'd skip the caps in Europe. They aren't as commonly worn by European women, and you'll really stand out as a tourist.

A day trip to Girona, Spain, from Barcelona

A note on dress codes

In some destinations you'll visit in Europe, including 'sharp' restaurants and some religious sites, you may run across a dress code. In general, cultural norms dictate more conservative clothing, regardless of a formal dress code. The dress codes in restaurants generally prohibit 'trainers' (sneakers), torn jeans, and sometimes athleisure wear or sweatsuits. In religious sites, modest attire is sometimes requested for women, such as shoulder covering, or no very short shorts or skirts.
​

Leave the tank tops and booty shorts at home.

Add an extra layer

Calton Hill, Edinburgh

Europeans tens to 'finish their outfits' by adding an extra layer beyond what we'd probably add. This would include a jacket, scarf, or trench coat. Be sure to include that extra layer in your suitcase. We'll get into specifics later.

What to Wear in Europe:
Europe Travel Attire Essentials

Regardless which country you're visiting, there are a few things you definitely will want to bring to look classy in Europe.

​For more on packing for 10-days in Europe, check out the full post, Packing for a 10-Day Trip to Europe, which includes what to wear on a plane, how to pack a carry-on, and suitcase logistics. And, for my constantly updated list of Europe Travel Essentials, check out the full page!

Finding the perfect light jacket

Unless you'll be going to Northern Europe in the dead of winter, light jackets are the name of the game. 


For most countries in Europe, my jacket essentials list is 2 of the below:
​

• light trench coat;
• windbreaker;
• Barbour jacket; and/or
• a "topper" (Boden usually has some good ones)

FAQ: Should I bring my winter jacket to Europe?

In general, I'd say no. I've flown my winter jacket to both London and Paris, only to have it take up space in my suitcase and never see the light of day. If you'll be visiting Northern Europe in the depths of winter, then by all means, bring the winter coat. Any other European cities? Skip it.

Comfortable walking shoes for Europe

Finding the perfect walking shoes is *key* to feeling comfortable on a trip to Europe. Lots and lots of walking will be your main activity and cobblestone streets, combined with even the smallest blister can seriously ruin a tourism day. In addition to comfort, there are a few other elements to keep in mind when picking shoes for Europe:

• Bring versatile shoes that can be interchangeable with different outfits.
• Don't bring event-specific shoes (high heels, beach flip flops) unless you are positive you will be attending an event where they are required.
• Check the dress codes of special events to be sure you have the appropriate attire (some fancy restaurants don't allow tennis shoes).
• I'd suggest rotating your during-the-day walking shoes every couple of days. Don't rely on just one pair.

Break in your shoes before you get to Europe

I would recommend relying on shoes you've had for a while for the everyday walking. If you're going to buy new shoes for your trip, definitely do this thoughtfully. If you have new shoes, even ones you're planning to wear just for evening/special events, definitely break them in before your trip.

You simply can't walk 18,000 steps a day in new shoes.

FAQ: Can I wear sneakers in Europe?

Not too many years ago, a significant portion of this 'how to not look like a tourist in Europe' post would have been dedicated to lecturing you about there's no easier way to identify an American tourist than by their "clunky, white tennis shoes." Well, times have changed and so has European style. Feel free to wear a pair of classic, white sneakers. If Kate Middleton can do it, so can we.


My packing list of comfortable shoes Europe for is:

• one pair of boots or booties. I like these Blondo boots because they're waterproof, but they look like leather, so they're perfect for rainy days;
• A pair of flats  (I like Sam Edelman and Birdies for loafers);
• one pair of classic tan or white sneakers; and
• one pair of *nice* sandals or slides (not pool flip-flips), to let my feet catch a breather from my other shoes, in warmer months.

Purses for Europe

The right purse will be one of your more vital accessories on a trip to Europe. It's also one of the easier pieces to find.


The ideal purse for Europe should have three essential qualities:

• It should be as small as possible to carry only your essential items
• It should close fully. I say this not to scare you, but to prevent avoidable accidents. Pickpockets are a real concern, especially in 'touristy' areas, like near the Eiffel Tower.
• It should be able to withstand some amount of weather, if you're caught by surprise, particularly if you're visiting the UK

In general, I prefer a leather crossbody bag.

FAQ: Do I need a travel backpack in Europe?

No. Unless you are traveling with small children, or need to carry a large number of possessions for some specific reason, I would skip the backpack for everyday touring in Europe. This is for several reasons.

First, carrying a huge number of items is simply going to tire you out and be a massive pain. You aren't in the wilderness.

Second, most museums will make you either check your backpack at bag check area, which is a bother, takes time, and sometimes costs money.

And finally, you might as well wear an "I'm a tourist" sign. Not that it's necessarily 'bad' to be a tourist, but you're reading this post because you want to fit in and look your best in Europe. Just like in the US, adults in European countries don't wear backpacks, unless they're in high school.

Pants for Europe

Our finally outfit building block for your trip to Europe is a great pair of pants. I say "pants," but here's your potentially unnecessary reminder of a fun linguistic difference between us and Brits: Brits call underwear "pants" and slacks/pants "trousers." So don't run around talking about your "pants" in the UK.


Ok, enough about linguistics. I'd generally recommend bringing a great pair of jeans and a couple pairs of black slacks or really nice joggers for your trip. Make sure your jeans are well-fitting and not distressed. And be sure that you have pants/skirts that aren't denim, if you plan to visit any 'smart' restaurants.

FAQ: Can I wear shorts in Europe?

Yes, you can wear shorts for your summer trip to Europe, and European women do wear shorts. However, it's not generally as hot in Europe as it is in the U.S., so to fit right in with the Europeans, consider wearing longer, chino shorts than you normally would (example linked here). I would also avoid denim shorts or athletic shorts, as they aren't consistent with European fashion trends.

What to Wear in Europe:
​Stylish Outfit Additions

Scarves

Welcome drinks in Rome

No matter the country, I always recommend adding a scarf to most outfits for winter/spring/fall in Europe. They're perfectly comfortably for travel, yet keep you looking classy and polished all day long.

A wrap

For the airplane rides, late-nights, outdoor dinners, and even casual museum strolling on a nice day, I love a wrap to keep my temperature comfortable when going in and out of AC, or when the temperature unexpectedly dips. 

Preparing for rain in Europe

If you come prepared, you can avoid the ultimate mark of the tourist, the dreaded plastic parka. 

Rain is an unfortunate reality of any vacation, especially if you'll be visiting the England & Scotland. For specifics on UK rain essentials, check out What to Wear in London and What to Wear in Scotland.

The Royal Crescent, Bath

Generally, I rely on a small, extremely compact umbrella, a light rain jacket, and waterproof shoes, but not rain boots, which are hard to walk in and will inevitably cause blisters, no matter how comfortable you think they are. That way, I'm prepared for rain, but also look normal...not like I'm about to go on the Maid of the Mist.

Depending on where you'll be heading, I likely have some tips on what to wear in that specific spot.

Check out my country-specific packing lists:

• The Practical Guide to Looking Perfect in Paris
• What to Wear in Scotland: 14+ Outfit Tips You Need to Know
•  Italy Packing Essentials: What to Wear Right Now
• What to Wear in London: A Packing Guide for First-Timers
• The Ultimate Guide to Packing for Spain This Winter

The Ultimate Europe Packing List

• Outer layers:
  • Waterproof Light Jacket/ Trench coat
  • Topper/light coat/structured cardigan
• Very small travel umbrella
• 1 scarf
• 1 wrap
• 3 pairs of shoes (ankle boots, sneakers, loafers/knee-high boots)
• Leather, crossbody bag
• 1 neutral belt
• 3 long-sleeved shirts/nice blouses
• 3 light sweaters
• 1 pair of jeans
• 2 pairs of black ankle pants/joggers
• Travel set for return flight
• 10 pairs of socks, underwear, etc.
• Toiletry bag
• Medications
• Travel documents
• Chargers/converters/ear plugs

Europe Travel Outfit Formulas

1. [rain/cold] Jeans + Barbour + boots + small umbrella
2. Joggers + tucked tee + sneakers + denim jacket
3. Jeans + button-down shirt
4. Nice blouse + jeans + light sweater + loafers
5. [warmer days] shorts + blouse+ crossbody

Thanks so much for stopping by!

It means a lot to me that you're here, and I hope you'll consider poking around the website to check out all the other content I have to offer about exploring Europe. Bon voyage! xx 


And don't forget to sign up for the newsletter and get your free, downloadable packing guide for a carry-on to Europe and list of Europe trip necessities. I'll keep you posted on everything you need to know about packing for, and experiencing Europe.

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