10 of the Best Apps for Europe Travel (That Are Free to Use!)
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Traveling through Europe should feel exciting and inspiring, not stressful! From navigating winding cobblestone streets to finding the best local eats, there are plenty of apps that can make exploring Europe ten times easier and more enjoyable.
In fact, when I first traveled Europe solo over a decade ago, I didn't have a single one of these apps. And I'll be the first to tell you that my travel plans often turned into a lesson rather than a glowing success. 😅
Nowadays, I won't travel without using most of these apps (if not all of them) at one point or another!
If you're wondering which apps to download for your trip, I’ve got you covered. Here's a curated list of the 10 best apps for Europe travel that’ll save you time, money, and headaches. Plus, a whole list of honorable mentions that are also worth a download. Spoiler alert: they're all super user-friendly and absolutely free to use!
10 Best Apps for Europe Travel
1. Google Flights
I'm convinced that this is the very best flight search tool out there. Google Flights (within the Google app or web browser) makes it easy to compare fares, dates, airline options and destinations all in one simple interface, so you can book the best flight options possible. The price calendar and tracking features are super handy for spotting the cheapest days to fly.
Top Feature: Flexible date search to find the cheapest travel days.
Why You’ll Love It: It makes price comparison incredibly simple! No need to switch between various websites - Google Flights pulls prices from all of the available airlines.
2. GetYourGuide
Unlock unique local experiences and tours around the world. From guided walking tours of Paris to wine-tasting adventures in Tuscany, GetYourGuide connects you to tours and activities tailored to your travel preferences. You can read my full GetYourGuide review here!
Top Feature: Book skip-the-line tickets to top attractions, minus the queues.
Why You’ll Love It: Fully immerse yourself in unique travel experiences, led by locals.
>> Download the app (use code julianarenee10 for 10% off your first booking!)
3. Google Translate
Need to order paella in Spain or ask for directions in Italy? Google Translate is an essential tool for overcoming language barrier hurdles. This is probably my most used app for Europe travel. I'm obsessed with its real-time camera translation feature, where you can hover your phone over menus, signs, or instructions to get instant translations.
Top Feature: Download languages to use offline anytime while traveling.
Why You’ll Love It: It’s a pocket translator that works almost anywhere.
4. Rome2Rio
Rome2Rio simplifies the chaos of European travel by showing you the fastest and cheapest ways to get from Point A to Point B. Whether it’s a flight, train, bus, or ferry, this app compares all transit options so you can choose what works best for you. I’ve found this to be one of the most useful and all around best apps for Europe travel while you’re actually in-country and trying to make on-the-spot travel plans.
Top Feature: Detailed transport comparisons with estimated costs.
Why You’ll Love It: It streamlines complex travel routes effortlessly.
5. Citymapper
Citymapper is the go-to app for navigating public transit systems in Europe’s biggest cities. Whether you're tackling the Metro in Paris or the Underground in London, this app makes sure you arrive at your destination with ease.
Wondering why you would need both Citymapper and Rome2Rio? Think of it this way: Rome2Rio is great for giving you the big picture of travel options between cities or countries around the world, while Citymapper is your go-to for detailed local transit info. With live departure times, updates on service disruptions, and smart route suggestions, Citymapper makes getting around any particular city a breeze.
Top Feature: Real-time updates and step-by-step directions.
Why You’ll Love It: It’s like having a local guide in your pocket.
6. Bounce Luggage Storage
Europe’s iconic sights are best enjoyed without dragging your suitcase along, right? Bounce connects you with secure storage locations, so you can stash your bags and roam freely before or after your accommodation's check-in time.
Top Feature: Easy drop-off and pick-up with insurance included.
Why You’ll Love It: Perfect for layovers or before accommodation check-in times.
7. My Currency Converter
No more guessing how your Dollars convert to Euros, your Euros convert to Pounds, etc. My Currency Converter ensures you can quickly and easily calculate exchange rates while shopping, dining, or booking activities.
Top Feature: Real-time currency updates and offline mode.
Why You’ll Love It: Avoid surprise expenses with accurate conversions.
8. Wanderlog
Wanderlog is a free travel planning app (with a Pro option if you want extra perks) that makes planning any trip super easy. Whether it’s a road trip or a group getaway, you can create itineraries, manage your budget, organize flights and hotels, map out attractions, and even collaborate with friends - all in one place!
Top Feature: All your plans are saved offline, making it perfect for road trips with spotty signal or international travel.
Why You’ll Love It: No more scattered notes and emails, Wanderlog keeps everything in one place.
9. Booking.com
Whether you’re kicking back in a chic city apartment or relaxing in a cozy countryside villa, Booking.com makes it easy to find the perfect place to stay that suits your style and budget. With millions of options, from hotels to B&Bs, plus verified reviews to guide you, they’ve got you covered in terms of accommodations.
Top Feature: Flexible booking options and loyalty deals.
Why You’ll Love It: Super easy to use - it’s a one-stop shop for accommodations.
10. AllTrails
If you love adventure (same here!), AllTrails is an essential download. It’s the perfect app for hikers, trail runners, or anyone who just wants to explore nature. This app helps you find the perfect trail in any location - you can even filter by difficulty, distance, or the type of scenery you’re in the mood for.
Top Feature: Use 'Navigate' on your chosen trail's page to start tracking your activity. This is essentially a handy map feature to make sure you stay on the exact trail route!
Why You’ll Love It: Perfect for discovering hidden gems, and saving trail ideas for your future travels.
Travel App Honorable Mentions
While the “best apps for Europe travel” listed above are absolute must-haves, here are a few other great tools:
Skyscanner (all-in-one airfare searches)
FlixBus (affordable inter-city bus travel)
Maps.me (offline navigation)
The Fork (restaurant recommendations and online bookings)
Airbnb (unique stays and local experiences)
Hostelworld (perfect for finding budget-friendly hostels and connecting with travelers)
Splitwise (easily track and split expenses with friends or travel companions)
WhatsApp (stay connected through free messaging and calls, perfect for international travel)
Final Thoughts
Traveling in Europe just got a whole lot easier with these must-have apps! Whether you’re searching for a place to store your luggage in Edinburgh, or are determined to find the very best local food tour in Venice, these tools let you spend less time travel planning and more time soaking up the experience.
I only wish I had access to these types of apps when I traveled Europe solo for the very first time many years ago. It would've made some of my crazy travel mistakes way less common!
Before you head off on your next adventure, make sure to grab these essential (totally free to use) apps for a smooth, stress-free trip. Happy travels!
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10 of the Best Apps for Europe Travel (That Are Free to Use!)
