Rick Steves' Smart Way To Easily Find Your Way Through European Airports

When it comes to travel gurus, Rick Steves is in a class of his own. With over five decades of experience as an international travel expert and several bestselling guidebooks under his name, Steves has an endless list of travel tips to make your adventures smoother and more memorable. One of Steves' most useful tips before flying is downloading or printing a map of the airport before you arrive. Though it may seem inconsequential, this alone could make or break your trip, especially if you're in a foreign country or running late for a flight.

Whether you're flying into Frankfurt Airport, Rome Fiumicino Airport, or the notoriously busy Charles de Gaulle Airport outside of Paris, you'll be able to find an online map. Having that map on your phone will not only give you peace of mind to help you navigate the building, but it will also help you plan your layover. Even though major European airports have Wi-Fi, you'll still know how to find your next gate or ground transportation to your destination by having the map saved on your phone. 

While Google Maps has hidden features to make unfamiliar airports less intimidating, it's not always possible to rely on Google Maps to plan out your logistics. Take an extra step and find a video on YouTube of the airport to help you get familiar with the layout. Depending on how detailed the video is, you may be able to note how much walking is involved or any obstacles that might delay your journey. 

A map is essential when visiting a foreign country, and an airport map is no exception, as it helps you find support and services quickly. After downloading your map, look for tourist or information centers at your arrival point in Europe. Nearly all major European international airports, including Paris Charles de Gaulle, Madrid Barajas, Rome Fiumicino, and Frankfurt have information offices where you can pick up city guides, transportation cards, and discount vouchers for tourists. A map also helps you locate airport amenities. Both Rome Airport and Frankfurt Airport have hidden gems, including public airport lounges with showers. You'll also discover secure luggage storage areas at London's Heathrow Airport and Barcelona-El Prat Airport, where you can leave your suitcase while you explore the city during a long layover.

As you peruse the map for places to eat or where to catch the train or bus to your destination, keep your eyes peeled for ATMs. Steves notes, "I've never been to an airport in Europe that didn't have plenty of ATMs." Rather than suffering from a bad exchange rate at the exchange booths, which Steves notes can take up to 15%, use an ATM. You'll normally find a better exchange rate from the ATM, though be careful of additional fees and check the machine for tampering. After grabbing your cash, follow Steves' lead and take an extra moment to pack it into your money belt. But, taking your money belt out at the airport is a mistake you might regret, as it makes you more vulnerable to theft.