12 best apps for traveling to Europe
I travel to Europe frequently and through the years I’ve found out what apps are useful and which ones just take up space on my phone. That’s why I created my guide to the 12 best apps for traveling to Europe to help you easily access the best way to travel Europe. Because there’s no better way to travel than stress-free. Cheers to your next adventure!
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Best travel apps for Europe
Table of Contents
For train travel: Omio
This app is one the easiest to find and purchase train tickets in Europe. Instead of going through individual websites you can easily find and purchase tickets in advance on the app, scanning your QR code at the station.
For conversations: Google Translate
When I first studied abroad in 2013 I wished something like this app existed. (Heck, I didn’t even have a smartphone!) Now Google Translate is so advanced you can speak into the app and translate it to the person you’re trying to talk with, all in real time. My favorite feature is the photo translation, where you can snap a photo of any sign or menu and easily find the translation.
For using your phone: Airalo
One of the most asked questions when it comes to travel is how to use your phone abroad. The easiest way nowadays is with an e-sim. I love Airalo because they make it super easy to download a sim right to your phone at an affordable price.
For organization: TripIt
I used to be horrible about remembering what I had and hadn’t booked for a trip until I started using TripIt. You can forward all your itinerary details as you book items for your trip straight to the app, which organizes the information into a timeline with all your details for you.
For budgeting: TravelSpend
TravelSpend is a great app to add all your expenses to while planning a trip, and even when you’re there. I love to use it to keep me accountable for my expenses because let’s be honest… overspending on a trip is always a possibility.
For Europe on a budget: Rick Steves Audio Europe
If you like saving money and forgetting about a guide for a DIY experience then look no further than this app. Rick Steves is like everyone’s dad on a trip but the content is helpful and you can easily walk around your favorite cities and museums without paying anything for a guide.
For conversions: Currency
This straightforward app allows you to add the currency of the country and show it in another. It’s great to make sure you’re getting a good deal when haggling with locals at markets or just buying that local cup of coffee.
For getting around: Google Maps
Google Maps reigns king for getting around Europe. With changing restaurants and shops in old town streets they always have the most up-to-date information. Plus, you can download maps offline to use them without your internet, too.
For finding public transportation: Rome2Rio
This is my go-to app for getting from the airport into the city center or between cities when traveling Europe. If you plan to use public transportation you can easily know what the best routes are and how much they’ll cost you.
For finding things to do: Viator
Viator has a great selection of activities to choose from and with a fantastic rewards program it’s my favorite place to find things to do, especially in Europe. You’ll find a wide selection of things to do at a great price. The best part of the app is you can easily find your reservation when you show up to your activity, too.
For leaving your luggage: Bounce
If you can’t leave your bags at a hotel, or perhaps you’re only passing through a town on your way somewhere else, the Bounce app lets you find luggage storage options near you. You can book your reservation right on the app, too!
For tracking your flights: Flighty
If you’re an aviation nerd this app is a must but if you want to know about your likely delays or plane issues this app is also for you. I love how you can track your incoming flight, see real-time delay likeness and explore your own annual travel stats, too.
