Blog Home > Croatia, Europe, Iceland, Italy, Norway, Scotland, Slovenia Top 6 European Countries for First-Time Adventurers Nicki Bruckmann August 05, 2024 Share Exploring new cultures and ticking off bucket list destinations is undeniably thrilling. But let’s be real, planning a solo trip can be as stressful. There’s so much to do and so much to see—where do you even start? And the biggest question of all: which country should you choose for your first international adventure? For many first-timers, Europe is an obvious choice. It’s safe, easy to get around, and packed with amazing sights. Lots of Europeans speak English, so you won’t feel totally lost when trying to order food, ask for directions, or chat with locals. But even with Europe’s traveler-friendly reputation, taking that first big international trip can still feel daunting. That’s where women’s group travel tours come in. Traveling with like-minded women will not only ease your fears of international travel but also give you the courage to try things you’d never dare to do alone. This article lists the best European countries to visit for first-timers, plus tips to make your travel a smashing success! Choosing Your Perfect European Adventure Destination Selecting the right country for your best first international trip can make or break your experience. Here’s what to consider when planning your European adventure. Language and Communication Ease While it isn’t necessary to understand the native language of the country you’re traveling to, you need to at least know the basics. Luckily, more than half of the European population speak English and quite a few adopt it as their second language. Top English-speaking countries in Europe include: Finland Germany Ireland Netherland Denmark Sweden Austria Norway Belgium Poland If you’re traveling to a country in which English or your native tongue isn’t a common language, it’ll do you good to do some preparation beforehand. Before the trip, download a physical map, photos of specific areas or locations you want to visit, and a dictionary. Don’t always depend on your phone because there’s always a chance that it might run out of battery or there’s no internet connection around. It’s also helpful to learn basic phrases, such as hello, thank you, you’re welcome, where’s the [toilet, bus stop, hotel, entrance, etc.], and do you speak English? You don’t have to master the pronunciation; most locals are patient and understanding with foreigners who try to speak their language. Safety Considerations for Solo and Group Travel Whether you’re traveling solo or with a group, there are several safety considerations you need to take note of. Firstly, always share your travel itinerary with a trusted friend or family member. Make sure someone knows your whereabouts at all times. Secondly, prepare for the unexpected. Research nearby police stations, hospitals, or other emergency facilities at each stop of your journey. Having this information at your fingertips can be a real lifesaver if you encounter any medical issues, theft, or accidents during your travels. Also, always carry a copy of important documents—passport, ID, emergency contacts, etc.—in your wallet or bag for situations where you need identification. Here are other safety considerations to take note of when traveling to Europe: Stick to well-lit streets and populated areas where there are other people around. Don’t take shortcuts or venture into isolated areas, especially at night. If someone asks if you’re traveling alone, say you’re on your way to meet your friend, spouse, or relative. Allow yourself to be rude if necessary. Trust your instincts and don’t worry about offending someone if it means protecting yourself. Practice common sense. No matter how safe you feel, you never know what’s lurking behind the corner. Don’t drink too much and avoid going anywhere alone with a stranger. Pay attention to your surroundings and the people around you. Transportation Options and Accessibility We can’t stress this enough: always research the transportation and accessibility options of the country you’re visiting! Most countries offer public transportation like trains, subways, and buses, so familiarize yourself with these systems to make your travels smoother. Many cities also have ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft, which can be more convenient and sometimes safer than hailing a local taxi. If you prefer to have more control over your movement, renting a car, bike, or scooter can be an excellent option. Just make sure to familiarize yourself with local driving laws and conditions. For those with accessibility needs, research the accessibility options in the area you’re visiting. Look for features like low-floor buses with ramps, elevators in subway stations, and designated seating areas for wheelchairs and mobility scooters. Unique Cultural Experiences and Adventure Opportunities Don’t miss out on the country’s unique cultural experiences and adventure opportunities. After all, exploring new places is about immersing yourself in the local culture and creating lasting memories! Taste traditional foods, participate in local festivals, visit museums and historical sites, and engage with the area’s local customs and people. If you’re looking to add excitement to your trip, consider activities like snorkeling, hiking, biking, rappelling, or water sports. Just remember to always prioritize your safety and use reputable guides and services with lots of positive reviews. Accommodation Variety and Comfort Levels Don’t limit yourself to just hotels! Europe offers a wealth of unique accommodation options to suit every budget and travel style. You can stay in a charming family-run Bed and Breakfast (B&B), rent a vacation house in the countryside, or, if you’re feeling adventurous, go glamping under the stars. Check the reviews of previous travelers and look for mentions of service quality, water pressure, air conditioning (or heating), and any amenities important to you. Sign up for the latest trips and special offers! Email(Required) Name First Last PhoneThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Top 6 European Countries for Your First Adventure Abroad These six countries offer the perfect blend of excitement, natural beauty, and cultural richness for first-time international travelers seeking adventure. 1 Scotland: Where Legends and Landscapes Collide Known for its ancient castles, rugged highlands, and rich folklore, Scotland is as magical as the movies depict it. If you’re big into Harry Potter, Scotland is definitely a country you should visit. Historical Sites and Adventure Activities Scotland is home to some of the UK’s most striking landscapes, from jagged mountain faces and hills to glistening seas, lochs, and rivers. You can explore historic sites like Edinburgh Castle, Scone Palace, and the Rosslyn Chapel, all of which offer a window to Scotland’s rich and complex past. If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, you’re in for a ride: Scotland hosts a variety of creatures both big and small, and you’ll find them just chilling in their natural habitats, unbothered and content. Who needs zoos when Scotland’s natural landscapes are teeming with diverse wildlife? As for activities, your options are endless. You can go snowboarding in the Cairngorms, motor racing at Knockhill, dolphin spotting at Chanonry Point, coasteering in Edinburgh, and many others! Guided Tour With Chick Trip Scotland is one of the safest countries for first-time solo travelers, but if you really want to experience what the country has to offer, we recommend joining our guided Scotland trip. We not only provide authentic, Scottish lodging throughout the itinerary but also insider knowledge of local legends, hidden gems, and historical insights you might miss on your own. Plus, our trip includes hiking in Scotland’s most stunning landscapes. Think the Scottish Highlands, the Loch Maree, the Beinn Eighe Mountain Trail, and the peak of Cul Mor! JOIN US IN SCOTLAND 2 Italy: A Feast for the Senses and the Soul Italy needs no introduction; with rich historical sites, world-renowned cuisine, and diverse landscapes, a trip to Italy is a feast for the senses. It’s no wonder that Italy welcomes over 50 million international visitors every year! Activities Galore With so many activities and places to visit, planning an itinerary can be a challenge, to say the least! Should you spend your days wandering the art-filled streets of Florence, or indulge in the culinary delights of Tuscany? Perhaps you’d like to explore the ancient ruins of Rome, or soak in the breathtaking views of the Dolomite Mountains or the Amalfi Coast? Decisions, decisions! Explore, Hike, Savor To get the most out of Italy, we encourage first-time travelers to balance city exploration with nature excursions. After spending a morning marveling at Italy’s ancient architecture, dedicate the afternoon hiking through the country’s many rolling hills. Then, end it with a delicious wine tasting at a local vineyard or restaurant in the city. If you’re more on the adventurous side, participate in the country’s many exciting activities: via ferrata climbing, volcano hiking, and kayaking. Guided Tour With Chick Trip Unsure of where to start? Join our guided Dolomites trip for an opportunity to experience some of Italy’s most stunning natural wonders. Our expert guides will lead you through the breathtaking mountain scenery of Tre Cime di Lavaredo, the gorgeous peaks of Cinque Torri, and the pristine beauty of Puez-Odle Nature Park. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg! JOIN US IN ITALY 3 Iceland: Land of Fire, Ice, and Endless Adventure Iceland conjures images of otherworldly celestial phenomenons, majestic waterfalls, and glaciers so vast they seem to stretch on forever. It’s one of the best destinations to experience nature at its purest and most beautiful. If you’re lucky, you might encounter the ever-elusive aurora borealis, which usually appears between September and April. But even without it, gazing up at thousands of stars is an experience in and of itself. Beyond the Northern Lights Known as the land of fire and ice, Iceland is home to hundreds of volcanoes, glaciers, and hot springs. Glaciers cover 11% of Iceland’s landmass, with the Vatnajokull glacier covering a large part of the southern and central highlands. The Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon is a jaw-dropping destination—the kind that needs to be seen to be believed. It’s located in the heart of rural Iceland, so the lagoon is far from light pollution. Iceland also houses the world-famous Blue Lagoon, one of the top 25 natural wonders of the world. The Blue Lagoon is only around three to four feet deep, making it accessible for all ages and swimming abilities. The lagoon’s mineral-rich, milky blue waters are naturally heated by geothermal activity, providing a relaxing and therapeutic experience year-round. Guided Tour With Chick Trip So, what should be on your itinerary when traveling to Iceland as a first-time adventurer? Boy, do we have a list for you! Glacier hiking, ice cave exploration, snorkeling between tectonic plates, whale watching—there’s an activity for everyone. After exhausting yourself on adventures, visit downtown Reykjavik and indulge in its coffee houses, bars, restaurants, and Iceland traditions. Our guided tour to Iceland includes all the activities you’d want to experience in Iceland and more! JOIN US IN ICELAND 4 Norway: Fjords, Forests, and Fantastic Outdoor Pursuits Next up on our list is Norway, with its breathtaking fjords, picturesque villages, and mesmerizing northern lights displays. Norway consistently ranks as one of the happiest countries, and it’s easy to see why—a single visit will leave you wanting to come back again and again (and again…and again). A Sustainable Paradise Jostedalsbreen National Park is one of the many examples of Norway’s diverse natural landscapes. As you hike down the path, you’ll be met with lush valleys, crystalline glaciers, sparkling waterfalls, snow-capped mountains, and stunning fjords. Norway’s commitment to sustainability ensures parks and natural reserves are meticulously maintained, allowing travelers to witness untouched wilderness and biodiversity. Time Capsule Bergen, a city on Norway’s southwestern coast, is a trove of cultural and historical experiences. It’s here where you’ll encounter the iconic Bryggen Wharf, a UNESCO World Heritage site made of colorful Hanseatic commercial buildings dating back to the 14th century. These historic buildings now house shops, museums, and restaurants of all kinds, which you can explore at your leisure. Guided Tour With Chick Trip Immerse yourself in Norway’s natural wonders and culture with our guided Norway trip. Our itinerary includes a ferry to Lofoten, a hike to Reinebringen, kayaking in the Reinefjorden, and fishing and dining with the locals, among others. JOIN US IN NORWAY 5 Croatia: Adriatic Adventures and Medieval Marvels Croatia has a growing reputation as an adventure travel destination. The country offers a diverse range of exhilarating activities that show off its stunning natural landscapes, including sailing, white-water rafting, rock climbing, and mountaineering. Unique Islands With over a thousand islands to explore, visiting them all will take a lifetime and a half. Each island has its unique charm, from the lush greenery and secluded beach of Vis to the vibrant nightlife and historic architecture of Hvar. No matter your interests, there’s something for you to enjoy. Guided Tour With Chick Trip Let us be your guide to Croatia; we’ll make sure you’ll get the best out of your European adventure! Our itinerary includes a bike tour through Istria, the Parenzana Trail, and the charming Grožnjan town of artists and music. Of course, a trip to Croatia wouldn’t be complete without a nature hike; the Plitvice Lakes National Park, the Via Ferrata Paklenica National Park, and Kornati National Park—we’ll explore them all! JOIN US IN CROATIA 6 Slovenia: Where the Alps Embrace the Adriatic Last but certainly not least, Slovenia: the land of undiscovered natural wonders. First-time adventurers may find Slovenia a bit intimidating because it isn’t as well-known as other popular (touristy) European destinations. But Slovenia is actually one of the most beautiful countries we’ve visited, both in heritage and in natural diversity. It’s also among the safest countries for travelers to visit, not to mention the cleanest (Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, is considered one of the greenest European cities). Guided Tour With Chick Trip What’s there to do in Slovenia, you ask? Oh, where do we start? How about visiting the picture-perfect Lake Bled, with its stunning mountainous backdrop, secluded swimming spots, and jaw-dropping Ojstrica viewpoint? Alternatively, take a leisurely stroll in the heart of the Julian Alps, or explore the rolling wine hills and fragrant lavender fields of the Vipava Valley on an e-bike. The opportunities are endless. If you’re a first-time visitor, trust us to guide you through the best spots in Slovenia! JOIN US IN SLOVENIA Essential Tips for Planning Your First European Adventure Proper planning is key to a successful first international trip. Here are some crucial tips to ensure your European adventure goes smoothly. Obtain necessary travel documents and visas. This includes a valid passport, consent for travel with minors (if traveling with children), health travel documents, and a national ID card. Take the time to research women-friendly accommodations. Your accommodation should be secure and well-lit, with friendly and respectful staff. Read through reviews about taxi services, ride-sharing apps, and public transportation networks in the areas you plan to visit. Look for comments mentioning experiences of solo female travelers. Pack the essentials for various activities and climates. Check the area’s forecast three days before you leave and pack accordingly, focusing on quick-drying, versatile pieces that can be easily mixed and matched. Estimate your daily expenses for essentials like accommodation, food, transportation, and daily activities. Factor in additional costs like souvenirs and entry fees for attractions. Prioritize your safety while traveling, but keep your adventurous spirit alive. Participate in daring excursions and adrenaline-pumping activities—make memories you can fondly look back upon! Don’t be afraid to connect with other women travelers. Use apps like Tourlina or NomadHer to find travel buddies and share lasting memories. Your European Adventure Awaits! Nothing can match the excitement of first-time international travel. Europe is an excellent destination to start with, offering an all-in-one blend of history, culture, and diverse landscape within a relatively compact area. The first-time international travel destinations we’ve listed above have it all: stunning coastlines, charming towns, and endless adventures that’ll have your heart beating for more. Remember: the most memorable moments occur when you take risks and try something new. To conquer those first-time jitters, we highly encourage you to travel with a women’s adventure group. Join Explorer Chick for an unforgettable journey through Scotland’s mystical landscapes, Italy’s cultural treasures, or Croatia’s island paradises. Book your tour today and discover the thrill of international travel with a community of adventurous women! Related Posts Is Uganda safe? How to Prepare for a Safe trip to Uganda Is Uganda safe? Uganda has its struggles, making many travelers nervous to explore its wonders. Here’s what we know and how to be prepared. International, Travel Tips, Uganda Croatia Uncovered: Your Ultimate Travel Adventure Guide Croatia, Europe, Travel Tips Where to Find Croatia’s Most Captivating Stays Itching to get to Croatia but not sure where to begin? Here are our top picks based on our experience hiking and exploring Croatia. Croatia, International