What Americans Often Get Wrong in Europe, According to Locals

European travel observers say American visitors frequently stumble in a set of cultural missteps that can complicate trips and strain local hospitality. In a roundup of common errors, locals describe 14 recurring issues that range from language assumptions to pacing and etiquette. The aim, say those interviewed, is not to police travelers but to help them have more authentic, smoother experiences.

One of the most persistent missteps is assuming everyone speaks English. “There’s often an assumption that everyone speaks English, which can be a bit misleading, especially in countries like France, where English isn’t always spoken fluently,” said Kenza Sadoun-El Glaoui, a Parisian digital creator. “It’s important to remember that Europe is not one single culture or language, and that each country has its own identity and ways of communicating.” Luli Monteleone, a Lisbon-based digital marketing specialist, added that “Many Europeans ― especially in tourist areas ― do speak English. But making the effort to say even a simple ‘hello’ or ‘thank you’ in the local language changes everything. It’s less about fluency, more about respect.”

Another frequent expectation is air conditioning everywhere. “Another mistake is expecting air conditioning everywhere. In many European hotels and apartments, especially those situated in historic buildings, AC isn’t a standard,” said Jane Iskra, an Iceland-based photographer. “It can surprise (or even frustrate) travelers who are used to it back home literally everywhere.” The tipping question also causes confusion. Iskra noted that “Tipping is another big one. Americans are used to leaving 20% or more, but in Europe, tipping is much smaller ― often just rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10%, with 10% already considered generous.” Portuguese tour guide and food critic Carol Batista added that “the question of tipping often causes confusion. In many European countries, including France, service is already included in the bill. So while tipping isn’t expected the way it is in the U.S., I personally think that leaving a generous tip when the service is truly excellent is always a kind and appreciated gesture. In that sense, it’s not really a mistake, more of a pleasant ‘extra.’”

Underestimating distances is another trap. “Europe may look small on a map, but trying to visit five countries in 10 days usually leads to exhaustion. High-speed trains and short flights help, but traveling still takes time. Slowing down and focusing on fewer destinations makes for a richer journey,” said Diana De Lorenzi, a Rome-based lifestyle blogger. Luli Monteleone echoed the sentiment, noting that “Paris to Rome isn’t a quick day trip ― it’s a plane ticket, not a stroll.”

Not being open-minded about food also surfaces as a frequent misstep. Ronke Lawal, a London-based PR and communications consultant, argued that travelers should explore more than chain restaurants: “Some visit England or a city like London and stick to chain restaurants when they should really try independent restaurants or use the many foodie apps that exist to help try new food experiences.” Monteleone added that skipping local food is a lost opportunity: “ignoring local food ― flying across the Atlantic just to eat fast-food chains you have at home and skipping the local bakery or market next door.”

Wearing the wrong attire and footwear is another common mistake. Kelsey Heinrichs, a London-based blogger, warned that “Europe is built on cobblestone streets” and that stilettos are rarely practical. “Most women here wear trainers or chunky boots on nights out. European style is far more relaxed, comfortable, and practical.” Carol Batista urged travelers not to wear beachwear in city settings: “Don’t wear flip-flops and shorts everywhere. There is a difference between beachwear and citywear.”

Many travelers try to do too much in a single trip. Heinrichs urged pacing: “Only spending one or two nights in a European capital city is a mistake.” Monteleone warned that “Six cities in seven days sounds ambitious,” and Iskra cautioned against overpacking itineraries, noting that “Every country and even each region deserves time.”

Missing out on conversations with locals is a missed opportunity as well. De Lorenzi emphasized that “the soul of a place is its people” and skipping interactions robs travelers of traditions and stories.

Navigating Europe without preparing for all the walking is another issue. De Lorenzi explained that many cities have restricted traffic zones or are car-free in places like Venice, so “Walking — and walking a lot — is an essential part of the European travel experience.” Batista added a practical reminder that even a simple walk can become strenuous if one underestimates the effort involved: “Americans underestimate how much walking is involved.”

Treating Europe as one country is a frequent frustration for locals. Batista noted that “People show up in Lisbon thinking it’s part of Spain or expecting Aperol spritz vibes like in Italy.” In reality, each country has its own history and identity, and some comments can be off-putting to locals when treated as if they’re all the same.

Another misstep is expecting large portions and free refills. Iskra observed that dining styles in Europe are slower, portions smaller, and drinks like water often aren’t free. That difference can surprise travelers who are used to U.S. norms.

Not being mindful of boundaries is also highlighted. Batista warned that oversharing with waiters or touching someone you just met can feel inappropriate, while some American travelers can become more vulnerable to being taken advantage of as customers if they appear overly friendly.

Visiting only the most touristy areas is a limiting approach, according to Lawal and De Lorenzi. Lawal argued that London and other capitals offer much more beyond the central attractions, while De Lorenzi pointed to smaller towns in Italy, emphasizing that “the true magic of Italy often lies in Tivoli and countless medieval villages scattered across the country.”

Local rules and small customs can also trip travelers up. Monteleone pointed to the small details that can cause headaches, such as not validating metro tickets, showing up to dinner without a reservation, or entering churches dressed for the beach. De Lorenzi reminded readers that meal times and coffee culture vary widely: in Italy, dinner rarely starts before 8 p.m., and ordering a cappuccino after lunch can mark a traveler as a tourist.

The bottom line, say locals, is to slow down, learn a few phrases, respect local rhythms, and explore beyond the well-trodden paths. The guidance emphasizes that while Europe offers a mosaic of cultures, travelers who adapt to local norms—rather than expecting things to be “the American way”—tend to leave with richer experiences and fewer headaches.

Meal times, coffee culture and social habits can be very different from the U.S. In Italy, dinner rarely starts before 8 p.m., and ordering a cappuccino after lunch immediately marks you as a tourist. Embracing these rhythms makes the experience more authentic. A related caution notes that small rules—like not validating metro tickets, not booking reservations when needed, or dressing appropriately for sacred spaces—can save travelers from big headaches and wasted time.