Cultural differences can easily turn a simple trip into a series of awkward moments. Knowing local customs helps travellers feel more comfortable and avoid misunderstandings.
Travel agency Holiday Pirates identified common mistakes tourists make in Europe that displease locals and offered advice on how to avoid them.
Top 9 Tourist Mistakes Across Europe
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France: Never order croissants after 9 a.m. Fresh ones are gone early.
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Italy: Don’t cut spaghetti with a knife — it’s a culinary crime.
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Netherlands: Avoid walking on bike lanes — cyclists won’t shout, they’ll just hit you.
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Spain: Don’t go for dinner at 6 p.m. — restaurants open much later.
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Greece: Don’t expect ferries to be on time — time there is flexible.
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Lithuania: Don’t confuse it with Latvia — locals take pride in their identity.
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Serbia: Don’t refuse a shot of rakija — it’s seen as rejecting friendship.
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Norway: Wear proper hiking shoes — city sneakers won’t survive fjords.
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Poland: Don’t call it Eastern Europe — Poles consider their country part of Central Europe.
Tips to Travel Respectfully
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Learn basic cultural etiquette before you go.
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Be polite and open-minded with locals.
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Avoid stereotypes or comparisons.
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Use local phrases — it shows respect.
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Remember: you’re a guest, not a critic.
Holiday Pirates says: “Traveling with respect transforms a simple trip into a memorable cultural experience.”
