{2026} What to Wear in Europe: 20+ Easy Tips Every Tourist Needs

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.

Rome, Italy (JSB)

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Wondering what to wear in Europe?​

Paris, France (SPC)

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 7 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?

Traveling is about exploring, seeing the world, expanding your horizons, and learning how other people live. Feeling comfortable and confident is part of my personal enjoyment of travel (and everyday life). I like to feel that I fit in, look good, and am representing myself well.  I also enjoy learning how people dress (it was in England that I discovered my love of Barbour) and how social norms differ from what I'm used to (read: endless saying of "Bonjour!" in France). I hope my tips help you feel comfortable, confident, and chic while traveling in Europe.

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Preparing for your trip

Couldn't resist a photoshoot in Strasbourg, France (JSB)

Checking the weather forecast

Plan for the season you'll be experiencing, as your trip will be largely outdoors. What sort of travel blogger would I be if I allowed you to miss out on exploring Europe because you've brought the wrong shoes? Waterproof shoes in spring, a lighter winter coat in winter, long-ish shorts in summer, and a 'topper' or trench in fall and off you go!

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. Similarly, 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

I opt for gel polish to keep my nails looking nice through the whole trip. Seven-ten days is too long to ask of traditional nail polish, especially when you're hauling suitcases and washing your hands more than usual.

Packing jewelry for a trip to Europe

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. Ensure that all of your important jewelry is insured before you go.

What to Wear on Your Flight to Europe

Make-up for a flight 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 travel day, during which I've tried to sleep on a plane.

Selecting clothes for the flight

Your outfit for a long-haul flight to Europe serves several purposes. In addition to keeping you comfortable during the flight across the Atlantic Ocean, it's also an opportunity to bring items with you, outside of your suitcase. I would wear a travel set that you aren't interested in wearing during your trip, as it will be 'airplane filthy' after you land. I would wear your heaviest shoes (generally sneakers or ankle boots), 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

What to Wear in Europe: Logistics once you arrive

Styling your hair in a European hotel room

How are you going to look perfect 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.

A day trip to Girona, Spain, from Barcelona (JSB)

A note on dress codes in Europe

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 (JSB)

Europeans tend to 'finish their outfits' by adding an extra layer (jacket, topper, structured cardigan, scarf) beyond what we'd probably add. Be sure to include a couple extra layer options in your suitcase, depending on the season. We'll get into specifics later.

What to Wear in Europe:
The Essentials You'll Want to Wear Daily in Europe

The Palace of Westminster, London (SPC)

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

Finding the perfect light jacket for Europe

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, a light trench coat/windbreaker will be a great day-to-day top layer, rain or shine.

FAQ: Should I bring my winter coat to Europe?

It depends where you're visiting. I've flown my winter jacket to both London and Paris in early spring and late fall, 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. London? You'll simply never need the winter coat you wear in Minneapolis.

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.

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 20,000 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 Blondo boots because they're waterproof, but aren't "rain boots," so they're perfect for rainy, yet classy, days;
• A pair of flats  (I am obsessed with Sam Edelman loafers); and
• one pair of classic sneakers

​​Want more info about Europe shoe shopping? Check out {2026} The Best Comfortable Shoes for Walking All Day in Europe.

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 basic crossbody bag (and this one is pickpocket-resistant!).

FAQ: Do I need a travel backpack in Europe?

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. Carrying a lot around is exhausting, you may have to check your backpack at museums (or wear it on your front), and you're less likely to blend in.

Pants for Europe

I'd generally recommend bringing a great pair of jeans and a couple pairs of wrinkle-resistant travel pants. 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 distressed denim shorts or work-out shorts, as they aren't consistent with European fashion trends.

Outfit accents to help you fit in

Scarves

Welcome drinks in Rome (JSB)

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. 

FAQ: What should I wear in Europe if it rains

​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 (JSB)

Generally, I rely on an 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.

Paris, France (SPC)

European country-specific packing guides

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

Easy European Travel
​Outfit Formulas

• Cool or rainy day: jeans + striped tee + trench or Barbour + waterproof boots + crossbody bag
• Classic sightseeing day: jeans + blouse or button-down + low-profile sneakers + light jacket
• Polished city day: wrinkle-resistant trousers + simple top + blazer or structured cardigan + loafers + crossbody bag
• Warm sightseeing day: longer shorts + blouse or striped tee + comfortable sneakers or sandals + crossbody bag
• Sightseeing to dinner: dark jeans or trousers + blouse + loafers or flats + light jacket

{2026} Europe Travel Essentials

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 

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