Europe, with its centuries-old traditions and diverse cultures, offers much to explore and appreciate. Yet, for many Americans visiting or living in Europe, the everyday customs and practices can feel downright puzzling. While Americans are used to large coffees, free bathroom access, and air conditioning at full blast, Europe marches to a completely different beat.
Interestingly, over 16 million Americans visit Europe annually, and many experience some level of “culture shock.” Here are 12 everyday European practices that surprise (and sometimes confuse) Americans.
Paying for Water at Restaurants
One of the first surprises many Americans face in Europe happens at restaurants when they ask for water. Unlike in the U.S., where tap water is often served for free, European restaurants typically charge for water, and you’ll likely be asked if you’d like it “still or sparkling,” as reported by Yahoo Life.
What’s more, they’ll bring it in a bottle! Don’t expect refills, either; once you finish, you’ll probably need to purchase another bottle.
Tip: If you’re on a budget, ask for “tap water” (if it’s socially acceptable in the country you’re visiting). However, it’s not commonly provided everywhere.
Bathrooms Without Free Toilets
In Europe, public restrooms are often not free, a surprise for many American travelers. It’s common to pay a small fee to use facilities in train stations, shopping centers, or even certain restaurants. However, as reported by The Washington Post, efforts to introduce free public restrooms are gaining momentum, offering much-needed convenience to both tourists and locals.
Why? Europeans often view this fee as a way to maintain cleanliness and upkeep. While it’s usually just a small coin, the “pay-to-pee” concept is definitely new to many Americans.
Tip: Keep some small change (like €0.50 or €1 coins) handy whenever you’re out exploring.
Small Refrigerators (and Fewer Ice Cubes)
If you’re staying in a European home, you might notice that refrigerators are much smaller than their American counterparts. Europeans tend to shop more frequently for fresh food and rely less on frozen or bulk goods. Even in restaurants, the lack of ice in drinks might surprise you. Cold beverages simply aren’t as big of a priority.
Tip: If you’re at a restaurant and want ice, don’t hesitate to ask. Some places might accommodate you, but don’t expect the overflowing ice-filled drinks that are typical in the U.S.
Metric System Everywhere
Americans visiting Europe often find themselves puzzling over Celsius temperatures, kilograms, kilometers, and liters. Europe universally uses the metric system, meaning nearly all measurements differ from the customary system used in the United States.
A recent YouGov poll in the UK revealed that Britons tend to alternate between measurement systems based on the context, whereas Americans show a strong preference for the imperial system.
Tip: Familiarize yourself with metric conversions before your trip! Conversion apps can also be a lifesaver, especially if you’re driving and need to understand speed limits in kilometers per hour.
Lack of Air Conditioning
During the summer months, Americans may find themselves in sweltering European cities… and missing air conditioning. While central air conditioning (A/C) is standard in most American homes and businesses, many parts of Europe rely on fans or simply opening windows for ventilation.
Why? Many European countries have historically experienced milder weather, although recent heat waves have begun to change this.
Tip: If air conditioning is a priority for you, check the amenities before booking accommodations. Portable handheld fans can also help keep you cool in the heat.
Public Transportation Dominates
For Americans used to driving everywhere, Europe’s reliance on public transportation can feel like a big shift. From extensive subway systems in major cities to cross-country train networks, Europeans rely much more on trains, buses, and trams for getting around.
Tip: Download transportation apps specific to the city you’re visiting. Trains like the Eurostar or Germany’s Deutsche Bahn are reliable and will make your travels seamless.
Sunday Shutdowns
Sundays are often seen as days for rest in Europe. Many stores, supermarkets, and even cafes close (or have limited hours), especially in countries like Germany and France. For travelers accustomed to 24/7 convenience, this slower pace can cause frustration if they are unprepared.
Tip: Plan and stock up on essentials before Sunday if you’re in a country where this is common.
Fewer Tipping Expectations
Tipping customs in Europe differ significantly from those in the United States. According to Bankrate’s Tipping Survey, about 67% of Americans consistently tip their server when dining at sit-down restaurants.
In the United States, leaving a 15-20% tip is the standard practice. However, in many European countries, a service charge is typically included in the bill, making additional tipping either unnecessary or minimal. In some regions, it’s common to simply round up the total to the nearest euro.
Tip: Check whether the country you’re visiting expects tips. When in doubt, research the customs of each destination’s restaurants.
Speeding on the Autobahn
“The Autobahn in many people’s minds is a bucket list item,” said David Tracy, co-founder and editor-in-chief of the Autopian, an automotive news outlet. For visitors to Germany, the Autobahn often becomes a culture shock. With no universal speed limit on certain portions, drivers in luxury cars zoom past at breakneck speeds.
CNBC reports that top speeds on these freeways have surged above 250 miles per hour. This freewheeling approach feels foreign to Americans accustomed to rigid speed limits on highways.
Tip: If you rent a car and drive on the Autobahn, stick to the right lane unless you’re comfortable driving very fast. Also, familiarize yourself with other regional driving laws.
Different Coffee Culture
Americans accustomed to iced coffee or large to-go cups (à la Starbucks) may struggle to adapt to Europe’s unique coffee culture. Europeans tend to prefer smaller servings, such as espressos or cappuccinos and commonly enjoy them while seated rather than on the go. Plus, don’t be alarmed if refills are unheard of!
Tip: Order “americano” if you want something closer to U.S.-style coffee. For Starbucks-style coffee shops, major cities like Paris or Rome will have some international chains.
Square Pillows and Duvet Covers
This one’s a small detail, but it often leaves Americans bemused. European bedding frequently includes square pillows rather than rectangular ones, and individual duvet covers (even for shared beds) are the norm.
Tip: It might feel odd at first, but separate duvets are surprisingly practical for sharing a bed without blanket tug-of-war!
Smoking in Public
Smoking cigarettes in public spaces is still quite common in many parts of Europe, compared to the U.S., where stricter regulations limit it. You might notice people smoking at outdoor cafes, bus stops, or even train stations.
In fact, a study by the National Bureau of Economic Research found that only 19.1 percent of adult Americans smoke, compared to 34 percent of adults in Germany. This difference in smoking rates can be attributed to a more relaxed attitude towards smoking in Europe, with some even considering it a normal part of life.
Tip: If you’re sensitive to smoke, look for smoke-free zones in restaurants or accommodations when booking your trip.
Key Takeaways
Traveling to Europe is a rewarding experience, but cultural differences can sometimes surprise Americans. Always carry a few coins for bathroom access, and be prepared for smaller coffee sizes and more limited store hours.
Embrace different customs like less air conditioning, smaller drinks, and relaxed vacation norms—it’s all part of what makes the experience special and enriching. If you’re visiting soon, keep an open mind and be prepared to adapt to the local cultural quirks. By the end of your trip, you might even find yourself preferring cheese for dessert!
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information. It is not intended to be professional advice.
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