Staying Safe While Traveling this Summer: A Journey Through Italy, Spain, and Eastern Europe

• Smart Safety Habits: Learn practical ways to protect your valuables, stay aware in crowds, and handle currency confidently while enjoying Europe’s summer vibrancy without stress.

• City-by-City Guidance: Discover the best times to visit, how many days to stay, must-see cities, food highlights, and hotel suggestions to shape your Italy, Spain, and Eastern Europe trip.

• Culture-Respectful Travel: Understand local customs, tipping norms, food safety practices, and transportation tips to blend in respectfully while making the most of your journey.

Travel has taught me that the small details often shape the biggest memories. I remember sipping espresso in a hidden café in Rome while watching morning life unfold, wandering Seville’s cobbled streets in the evening warmth, and sharing laughter with locals at a market in Budapest. But I also learned that staying safe while traveling doesn’t mean sacrificing spontaneity—it means allowing yourself to be fully present without worry. 

I’ve walked these streets with a lightweight bag tucked close, kept my valuables secured, and learned the rhythm of local life so I could travel with confidence and respect. These journeys through Italy, Spain, and Eastern Europe remain some of my favorites, not just for the history and food but for the small moments of connection and discovery that come when you travel prepared. My hope is to help you experience the same, safely and joyfully, on your summer adventures.

Traveling through Europe in the summer is a feast for the senses: the scent of espresso wafting from a café in Rome, the echo of flamenco steps in a sun-warmed plaza in Seville, the pastel hues of old town squares in Prague at dawn. It’s easy to get swept away by the romance of European summers. Still, it’s equally important to stay grounded with practical safety steps that allow you to enjoy every moment fully.

I learned this on a summer journey several years ago, weaving my way through Italy, Spain, and Eastern Europe with a small backpack, a sturdy crossbody bag, and a traveler’s mindset of curiosity and caution. I quickly realized that safe travel isn’t about fear; it’s about preparation, situational awareness, and small habits that keep your energy focused on discovery rather than recovery.

The Best Time to Travel

Italy, Spain, and Eastern Europe shine between late May and early October. June and September are ideal, offering warm days and cooler evenings without the thickest tourist crowds. July and August bring heat and higher prices, but with proper hydration, shade breaks, and early morning sightseeing, you can enjoy the summer vibrancy without exhaustion.

How Many Days to Spend

Plan at least 10–14 days if you’re combining these regions. For Italy, focus on Rome, Florence, and a smaller Tuscan or coastal town for a complete taste. In Spain, choose Madrid or Barcelona paired with Andalusia’s Seville or Granada. For Eastern Europe, Prague, Budapest, and Krakow form a logical and rewarding circuit. This timeframe allows you to settle into the rhythm of each place without constant rushing, while still experiencing diverse cultures and food traditions.

City Walks and Situational Awareness

European cities are made for walking, but wandering should never mean drifting without awareness. In crowded areas like Rome’s Trevi Fountain, Barcelona’s La Rambla, and Prague’s Charles Bridge, pickpockets often target distracted tourists. Their methods are discreet, bumping you gently, spilling something on you, or using a cardboard map as a cover while another hand explores your pockets or unzips your bag.

Practical Tips:

•     Carry a crossbody bag that zips fully, keeping it in front of you in crowds.

•     Avoid carrying your passport unless absolutely necessary that day; leave it in your hotel safe and use a copy and ID for daily outings.

•     Be cautious around “helpful strangers” offering assistance with machines or “found” jewelry scams in tourist centers.

•     If someone is creating a scene or distracting you, keep your hand on your valuables.

·    Accessories That Keep Your Valuables Safe

•     Money Belt or Neck Pouch: For cash and backup cards, worn under clothing.

•     RFID-blocking Wallet: To prevent digital theft from contactless cards.

•     Lockable Daypack: Pacsafe and similar brands offer anti-theft backpacks with slash-proof straps and lockable zippers.

•     Cable Lock: Useful for securing your bag to a chair or train rack when you are resting.

•     AirTags or Tile Trackers: Place one in your luggage and one in your daypack for easy tracking if your belongings are lost or stolen.

These small accessories can save headaches and help you travel with greater peace of mind.

Handling Currency and Credit Cards Overseas

In Italy and Spain, the Euro is used, while in Eastern Europe, it varies: the Czech Koruna (CZK) in Prague, the Polish Zloty (PLN) in Krakow, and the Hungarian Forint (HUF) in Budapest. While credit cards are widely accepted in major cities, small shops and markets may prefer cash.

Currency Handling Tips:

•     Use ATMs inside banks rather than street kiosks for safer withdrawals and better rates.

•     Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to avoid card blocks.

•     Use a credit card with no foreign transaction fees when possible.

•     Keep small denominations for markets, buses, and tipping.

•     Store backup cards in a separate location from your primary wallet.

Situations to Avoid

Europe is generally safe, but travelers should avoid:

•     Walking alone in dimly lit areas late at night, especially around major train stations.

•     Accepting drinks from strangers in clubs or bars.

•     Leaving bags unattended, even for a moment, at cafes or bus stations.

•     Overindulging in alcohol to the point of losing awareness of your surroundings.

•     Ignoring local regulations and customs, like dress codes in churches or local tipping practices.

In many Eastern European cities, taxi scams can occur. Use official taxis or rideshare apps to avoid unmetered, overpriced rides.

Must-See Cities, Hotels, and Food

Italy:

•     Rome: Stay near Trastevere for lively yet local vibes; savor cacio e pepe pasta, pizza al  taglio, and morning cornetti.

•     Florence: Base yourself near the Oltrarno district; eat Florentine steak, ribollita soup, and gelato from local artisan shops.

•     Cinque Terre or Amalfi Coast: For a few coastal days, walk the cliffside trails and dine on fresh seafood with lemon-scented breezes.

Spain:

•     Barcelona: Stay in Eixample for quieter evenings while being near Gaudi’s architecture; try tapas, paella, and crema catalana.

•     Seville: Enjoy flamenco performances, sip on tinto de verano, and taste salmorejo and jamón ibérico in family-run taverns.

•     Granada: Visit the Alhambra, wander the Albaicín neighborhood, and enjoy free tapas with your drinks.

Eastern Europe:

•     Prague: Stay near the Lesser Town (Malá Strana); drink Czech pilsner, try svíčková (beef with creamy sauce), and chimney cake.

•     Budapest: Base in the Jewish Quarter for vibrant nightlife and ruin pubs; enjoy goulash, langos, and thermal baths.

•     Krakow: The Old Town and Kazimierz (Jewish Quarter) are excellent bases; taste pierogi, zapiekanka (Polish pizza bread), and local craft beers.

Cultural Differences to Respect

•     In Italy, Spain, and Eastern Europe, locals value respectful dress in churches and quiet conversation in public places.

•     Tipping varies: In Italy and Spain, service is often included, but rounding up or adding 5-10% is appreciated. In Eastern Europe, 10% is customary.

•     Table service is slower than in the US; meals are meant to be enjoyed leisurely.

•     Learn a few local words (“grazie,” “por favor,” “děkuji,” etc.); it shows respect and often earns warmer service.

•     Avoid discussing sensitive historical or political topics unless you know your hosts well.

Food Experiences with Safety in Mind

Summer travel means busy markets, festivals, and outdoor dining. Food safety tips include:

•     Drink bottled water if you are unsure about the quality of tap water, especially in smaller Eastern European towns.

•     Eat at busy local restaurants where turnover is high, ensuring the food is fresh.

•     Watch for your belongings at open-air markets, where distractions are easy.

•     If you have dietary restrictions, learn how to communicate them in the local language or use a translation card.

Public Transportation and Local Travel

Europe’s trains, buses, and trams are efficient but can be targeted for petty theft, especially in Rome, Barcelona, and Prague.

Tips:

• Keep your bag in front of you and zipped.

• Avoid displaying expensive electronics.

• Be mindful when boarding and exiting trains and buses, as these are prime moments for distractions.

For extended intercity travel, book train tickets in advance to secure better rates and avoid last-minute stress.

Building Safe, Memorable Days

A typical safe, enjoyable summer travel day may look like this:

•     Early morning: Explore major sites before crowds, carrying minimal valuables.

•     Late morning: Take a coffee break and people-watch while keeping your bag secure.

•     Afternoon: Museum visit or a market lunch with a secured crossbody bag.

•     Evening: A local restaurant for dinner, using cards for payment while keeping an eye on transactions.

•     Night: Walk back with awareness, or take a reputable taxi/rideshare if late.

Hotels and Accommodations

Choose accommodations with secure entrances and safes for storing passports and valuables. Small boutique hotels and Airbnbs can provide local charm while offering practical safety. In major cities, staying in centrally located areas reduces the need for late-night transit, thereby enhancing safety.

Final Travel Thoughts 

Summer travel in Italy, Spain, and Eastern Europe offers rich rewards for those who prepare wisely. With layered histories, vibrant food cultures, and the warmth of long days, these regions draw travelers back year after year. By taking a few essential safety steps—securing your valuables, staying vigilant, handling money wisely, and respecting local customs—you can navigate these beautiful destinations with confidence.

In Rome, the joy of gelato on the Spanish Steps is sweeter when you know your wallet is secure. In Seville, the rhythm of flamenco feels richer when you’re not distracted by concerns over your passport. In Prague, a beer at a riverside pub tastes better when your daypack is locked and in sight.

Travel, after all, is about being present. With these summer safety practices in place, you can focus on the scent of freshly baked focaccia in Florence, the swirl of sangria in Barcelona, or the soft strains of street music drifting through Krakow’s old streets.

Stay aware. Stay curious. And most importantly—enjoy every step of your European summer journey.

Dirk Ebener is the founder and creator behind the Food Blogger Journey website, drawing on over 40 years of international travel across more than 60 countries. His global adventures have deepened his understanding of regional cuisines, local customs, and the powerful connection between food and culture. From bustling street markets in Asia to quiet vineyard dinners in Europe, Dirk captures authentic culinary experiences through immersive storytelling. Through Food Blogger Journey, he invites readers to explore the world one dish at a time.

© 2025 Food Blogger Journey. All rights reserved. The experiences, opinions, and photos this blog shares are based on personal travel and culinary exploration. Reproduction or distribution of content without written permission is prohibited.

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