A big difference between traveling about Europe and traveling, let's say around the United States are the many different choices when navigating Europe. Railroad travel is actually a great way to go between key cities plus within virtually all urban centers public transportation is excellent. But there might be occasions when the best option would be to rent a car and drive. There are a variety of alternatives for rentals; however there are a few things to consider when you decide on auto travel.

1. Driving within the main cities. Negotiating cities like Rome, Paris or London, in addition to others can be quite nerve-racking. Most of these cities will not be organized similar to most cities in the US, in particular those in the Midwest or West which have been in fact built for auto travel. European inner cities can be a real nightmare, as the streets frequently turn off; you really must know where you're going. I'd always recommend within the major cities of Europe to forget about the vehicle and take public transit.

2. Touring between big cities. When your intention is just to travel from one city to another one, going shorter distances by rail is the best alternative. You'll almost always save some time since the rail stations are positioned within city centers. With long distances traveling by air is the approach to take, although air terminals are typically located quite a distance from the centers of town.

3. Certain countries are better for driving than others. Whenever you travel to cities in far northern Europe such as Denmark, Sweden or Norway you'll find them more driver-friendly. And others like Amsterdam will have large numbers of bikers that you will have to be aware of. However since people journey by bicycle at least it will keep many of the cars off of the street.

4. When a car works effectively. There is some beautiful countryside to be experienced within Europe, and seeing it by car may be a fantastic way to go. As well, smaller cities are usually quite easy to navigate. Like anywhere you must understand just where you're going, and often in these cities they're great for walking, so always keep that alternative open.

5. Recognize the obstacles of driving in the British Isles. Not like all of continental Europe where everyone drives on the right side identical to America, in the British Isles everybody drives to the left side (or as we used to claim, the incorrect side). You needn't be intimidated by this, but you will also have to be alert all of the time. At some point, believe it or not, you will get used to it.