Traveling to Europe is an adventure that requires preparation, planning, and inspiration. From exploring the picturesque cities to indulging in the local cuisine, there are endless opportunities to make unforgettable memories.
To make the most of your European travel experience, you need the best travel books that provide you with expert advice and insider tips. In this blog post, we will introduce you to the top 15 travel books that will inspire, inform and guide you on your European journey.
Best Europe travel books
- “Lonely Planet Europe on a Shoestring” by Lonely Planet
- “Rick Steves Europe Through the Back Door” by Rick Steves
- “Europe by Rail: The Definitive Guide” by Nicky Gardner and Susanne Kries
- “DK Eyewitness Travel Guide Europe” by DK Travel
- “The Rough Guide to Europe on a Budget” by Rough Guides
- “In Europe” by Geert Mak
- “A Year in Provence” by Peter Mayle
- “The Sun Also Rises” by Ernest Hemingway
- “The Grand Tour: The Golden Age of Travel” by Sabine Arqué
- “My Brilliant Friend” by Elena Ferrante
- “The Diary of a Young Girl” by Anne Frank
- “The Shadow of the Wind” by Carlos Ruiz Zafón
- “Eat, Pray, Love” by Elizabeth Gilbert
- “The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry” by Rachel Joyce
- “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho
“Lonely Planet Europe on a Shoestring” by Lonely Planet
Lonely Planet is a trusted name in the travel industry, and their guidebook, “Europe on a Shoestring,” is a must-have for any traveler on a budget. This guidebook covers 40 countries, providing a comprehensive overview of the destinations, attractions, and accommodations available to travelers.
The guidebook includes practical information, such as transportation options and visa requirements, and also features cultural insights, history, and local tips. The guidebook is available in paperback or as an e-book on Amazon.
Highlight points:
- Comprehensive guide to 40 countries in Europe
- Covers attractions, accommodations, and practical information
- Budget-friendly travel advice
“Rick Steves Europe Through the Back Door” by Rick Steves
Rick Steves is a popular travel writer, television host, and tour guide, and his guidebook “Europe Through the Back Door” is an excellent resource for travelers who want to explore Europe beyond the tourist hotspots.
The guidebook focuses on off-the-beaten-path destinations, local experiences, and cultural insights that provide travelers with a unique and authentic travel experience.
The guidebook covers 24 countries in Europe and includes practical advice on transportation, accommodations, and local customs. The guidebook is available in paperback or as an e-book on Amazon.
Highlight points:
- Focuses on off-the-beaten-path destinations
- Provides unique and authentic travel experiences
- Includes practical advice on transportation, accommodations, and local customs
“Europe by Rail: The Definitive Guide” by Nicky Gardner and Susanne Kries
If you’re planning to explore Europe by train, “Europe by Rail: The Definitive Guide” by Nicky Gardner and Susanne Kries is a must-read. This guidebook covers 50 European countries, providing detailed information on train routes, schedules, and tickets.
The guidebook also includes recommendations on scenic routes and train travel experiences, as well as practical advice on navigating train stations and finding accommodations. The guidebook is available in paperback or as an e-book on Amazon.
Highlight points:
- Comprehensive guide to train travel in Europe
- Covers 50 European countries
- Provides recommendations on scenic routes and train travel experiences
“DK Eyewitness Travel Guide Europe” by DK Travel
The “DK Eyewitness Travel Guide Europe” is a visually stunning guidebook that provides travelers with a unique perspective on European destinations.
The guidebook features detailed maps, 3D cutaway illustrations, and photographs that showcase the cultural and historical significance of the attractions.
The guidebook covers 44 countries in Europe and includes practical advice on accommodations, transportation, and local customs. The guidebook is available in paperback or as an e-book on Amazon.
Highlight points:
- Visually stunning guidebook
- Provides a unique perspective on European destinations
- Includes practical advice on accommodations, transportation, and local customs
“The Rough Guide to Europe on a Budget” by Rough Guides
“The Rough Guide to Europe on a Budget” by Rough Guides is an essential guidebook for travelers on a tight budget. The guidebook covers 44 countries in Europe and provides detailed information on budget-friendly accommodations,
transportation options, and affordable food options. The guidebook also includes recommendations on free and low-cost activities and attractions. The guidebook is available in paperback or as an e-book on Amazon.
Highlight points:
- Essential guidebook for budget-conscious travelers
- Covers budget-friendly accommodations, transportation, and food options
- Includes recommendations on free and low-cost activities and attractions
“In Europe” by Geert Mak
Geert Mak’s “In Europe” is a unique travel book that combines history, culture, and travel in a compelling narrative. The book tells the story of Europe’s tumultuous past, from the First World War to the fall of the Berlin Wall, through the lens of the author’s travels.
The book covers 20 countries in Europe and provides a fascinating insight into the historical and cultural context of the destinations. The book is available in paperback or as an e-book on Amazon.
Highlight points:
- Unique combination of history, culture, and travel
- Covers 20 countries in Europe
- Provides a fascinating insight into the historical and cultural context of the destinations
“A Year in Provence” by Peter Mayle
“A Year in Provence” by Peter Mayle is a classic travel book that takes readers on a journey through the beautiful region of Provence in southern France. The book tells the story of the author’s experience of living in a small town in Provence for a year and immersing himself in the local culture and customs.
The book provides a delightful and humorous insight into the lifestyle and traditions of the region. The book is available in paperback or as an e-book on Amazon.
Highlight points:
- Classic travel book that takes readers on a journey through Provence
- Provides a delightful and humorous insight into the lifestyle and traditions of the region
“The Sun Also Rises” by Ernest Hemingway
“The Sun Also Rises” by Ernest Hemingway is a classic novel that tells the story of a group of American and British expatriates traveling to Pamplona, Spain, for the annual running of the bulls festival.
The book provides a fascinating insight into the expat lifestyle in Europe during the 1920s and the cultural significance of the bullfighting tradition. The book is available in paperback or as an e-book on Amazon.
Highlight points:
- Classic novel that provides a fascinating insight into expat lifestyle in Europe during the 1920s
- Covers the cultural significance of the bullfighting tradition
“The Grand Tour: The Golden Age of Travel” by Sabine Arqué
“The Grand Tour: The Golden Age of Travel” by Sabine Arqué is a beautifully illustrated book that showcases the history and glamour of European travel during the 18th and 19th centuries.
The book covers the origins of the Grand Tour, the famous travelers of the time, and the destinations that were popular among the aristocracy.
The book is a visual feast that provides a unique perspective on the evolution of European travel. The book is available in hardcover or as an e-book on Amazon.
Highlight points:
- Beautifully illustrated book that showcases the history and glamour of European travel
- Covers the origins of the Grand Tour and the destinations that were popular among the aristocracy
“My Brilliant Friend” by Elena Ferrante
“My Brilliant Friend” by Elena Ferrante is a novel that tells the story of two friends growing up in a poor neighborhood in Naples, Italy. The book provides a vivid and evocative portrayal of life in southern Italy, capturing the sights, sounds, and smells of the region.
The book is the first in a series of four books, all of which are set in Italy and provide a deep and nuanced insight into the country’s culture and history. The book is available in paperback or as an e-book on Amazon.
Highlight points:
- Novel that provides a vivid and evocative portrayal of life in southern Italy
- Part of a series of four books that provide a deep and nuanced insight into Italy’s culture and history
“The Diary of a Young Girl” by Anne Frank
“The Diary of a Young Girl” by Anne Frank is a powerful memoir that tells the story of a young Jewish girl who, along with her family, went into hiding during the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands.
The diary provides a first-hand account of the horrors of the Holocaust and the daily struggles of life in hiding.
The book is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of remembering the past. The book is available in paperback or as an e-book on Amazon.
Highlight points:
- Powerful memoir that provides a first-hand account of the horrors of the Holocaust
- A testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of remembering the past
“The Shadow of the Wind” by Carlos Ruiz Zafón
“The Shadow of the Wind” by Carlos Ruiz Zafón is a novel that takes place in post-World War II Barcelona and tells the story of a young boy who discovers a mysterious book that leads him on a journey to uncover the truth about its author.
The book provides a rich and immersive portrayal of the city of Barcelona and its history, culture, and architecture. The book is available in paperback or as an e-book on Amazon.
Highlight points:
- Novel that takes place in post-World War II Barcelona
- Provides a rich and immersive portrayal of the city’s history, culture, and architecture
“Eat, Pray, Love” by Elizabeth Gilbert
“Eat, Pray, Love” by Elizabeth Gilbert is a memoir that tells the story of the author’s journey of self-discovery through Italy, India, and Indonesia. The book provides a compelling and inspiring account of the power of travel to heal and transform.
The book is a best-seller and has inspired many readers to embark on their own journeys of self-discovery. The book is available in paperback or as an e-book on Amazon.
Highlight points:
- Memoir that tells the story of the author’s journey of self-discovery through Italy, India, and Indonesia
- Provides a compelling and inspiring account of the power of travel to heal and transform
“The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry” by Rachel Joyce
“The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry” by Rachel Joyce is a novel that tells the story of an ordinary man who embarks on a journey on foot across England to visit a dying friend.
The book provides a heartwarming and poignant portrayal of the beauty of human connection and the transformative power of travel. The book is available in paperback or as an e-book on Amazon.
Highlight points:
- Novel that provides a heartwarming and poignant portrayal of the beauty of human connection and the transformative power of travel
- Tells the story of an ordinary man who embarks on a journey on foot across England to visit a dying friend
“The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho
“The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho is a novel that tells the story of a young shepherd who embarks on a journey to find a treasure that he believes is his destiny. This best Europe travel book provides a spiritual and philosophical perspective on the nature of life, love, and destiny.
The book is a best-seller and has inspired millions of readers around the world. The book is available in paperback or as an e-book on Amazon.
Highlight points:
- Novel that provides a spiritual and philosophical perspective on the nature of life, love, and destiny
- A best-seller that has inspired millions of readers around the world.
What are the best travel guides for Europe?
There are many travel guides available for Europe, and the best ones will depend on your travel preferences and interests. Some of the most popular and well-regarded guidebooks include Lonely Planet, Rick Steves, DK Eyewitness Travel, Rough Guides, and Fodor’s.
These guidebooks provide comprehensive information on destinations, attractions, accommodations, and transportation, as well as practical advice on navigating different cultures and customs. It’s important to research different guidebooks and find one that aligns with your travel style and budget.
What is the most popular leading guide book for European countries?
Lonely Planet is one of the most popular guidebooks for European countries, and for good reason. They offer comprehensive and up-to-date information on a wide range of destinations, including practical information on transportation, accommodations, and local customs.
Their guides are also known for their attention to detail, cultural insights, and insider tips, making them a valuable resource for any traveler.
How I travelled Europe on a budget?
Travelling Europe on a budget requires careful planning and a willingness to be flexible with your itinerary. One of the best ways to save money is by staying in budget-friendly accommodations, such as hostels or Airbnb rentals.
Another way to save money is by using public transportation or renting a bike instead of taking taxis or renting a car. Eating at local cafes and street vendors can also save you money on food costs. Finally, consider travelling during the off-season when prices are typically lower and crowds are smaller.
What is the most popular way to travel in Europe?
The most popular way to travel in Europe is by train. Europe has an extensive and efficient train system that connects many cities and countries, making it easy to get around.
Many travellers opt for a Eurail pass, which allows for unlimited travel on the train system within a specific period. Another popular way to travel is by budget airlines, such as Ryanair or EasyJet, which offer low-cost flights between many European destinations.
Finally, travelling by bus or car can be a good option for those looking for more flexibility and independence.
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Conclusion
In conclusion, Europe offers a plethora of travel destinations that can make for a truly unforgettable experience. However, to make the most of your trip, it’s essential to have the best travel books that provide you with expert advice and insider tips.
In this article, we have introduced you to the top 15 travel books that cover a wide range of destinations and themes. Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly travel advice, off-the-beaten-path destinations, or a deeper understanding of the history and culture of Europe, these books have got you covered.
When it comes to choosing the best Europe travel books, it’s important to keep in mind your specific travel needs and preferences. Some books may be more suitable for budget-conscious travelers, while others may provide a deeper cultural and historical perspective. However, all the books on this list are highly recommended and are among the best travel books available today.
In summary, if you’re planning a trip to Europe, be sure to pick up one or more of these books to enhance your travel experience. Whether you’re exploring the iconic cities, immersing yourself in the local culture, or embarking on a journey of self-discovery, these books will provide you with the inspiration, information, and guidance you need to make your trip an unforgettable one.