It is said that around 20 years ago, only 16 percent of Americans held a passport. However, things have changed in recent years, with more than 40 percent of US citizens now owning a passport. This has led to Europe becoming a popular choice for its many beautiful, cultural and historic locations. However, for any US traveler, visiting Europe for the first time, let’s look at the most popular destinations for Americans as well as the best way to get there.

European travel for Americans

Currently, US citizens can travel to the Schengen Area for short-term stays without having to apply for a visa. While this is very convenient, this will change at the end of 2022, when Europe is introducing ETIAS, the European Travel Information and Authorization System. What this means is that people with a US passport will need to complete the ETIAS application online before making their trip. The new system is to protect the region’s external borders, but on the other hand, also makes border and document checks quicker and more efficient for travelers.

Fly American Airlines to Europe

Among the 26 popular European countries for worldwide travelers, certain countries tend to draw millions of American visitors each year. Looking back at 2017, 2.2 million US citizens visited Italy, another 2 million visited France, 1.9 million visited Germany and many more millions visited Spain.

While a number of flights are available, American Airlines is a good option to fly to European destinations. Let’s have a brief look at the various popular countries for US travelers in Europe and where best to take off and land.

1. Italy

There are many reasons for Americans to visit Italy, including the historic wonders of Rome and Pompeii. Venice is another popular draw, with its beautiful canals, lined with historic buildings, and, of course, the famous annual carnival. Foodies will appreciate the green and rolling hills of Tuscany, for its food and wine. Meanwhile, fashion fans will appreciate Milan. Other popular cities include Naples, Florence, Sorrento and Bologna.

Fly to Rome with American Airlines from New York City and Chicago. Milan is best accessed from New York (JFK), while there are regular flights from New York, Miami and Baltimore to lovely Venice.

2. France

France is one of the most popular countries for travelers worldwide, especially its capital city, Paris. The city has wonderful landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum, as well as charming corner cafés, top class restaurants and more. However, the southern region of France is a worthwhile destination, including the trendy Marseille. Other popular cities worth visiting are Nice, Lyon and Bordeaux.

Fly to Paris with American Airlines from New York (JFK) or Miami (MIA), landing in Paris (CDG) and Paris (PAR). There are many options available visit other destinations within the country, including domestic flights and an excellent rail service.

3. Germany

Germany is becoming one of the most popular destinations for American and international travelers alike. Its capital, Berlin, offers a range of fascinating museums and art galleries, as well as some of the top nightclubs and dance music culture of the city.

Munich, Hamburg and Cologne are also must-visit destinations, as are the Bavarian Alps with their fairytale castles. One of the most popular times to visit Germany is the famous Oktoberfest, but other events worth seeing are the Berlin Film Festival and the Wagner Festival in Bayreuth.

Fly to Berlin with American Airlines from New York (NYC), Miami (MIA) or Chicago (ORD). Frankfurt can be accessed from Austin (AUS), New Orleans (MSY) and New York (JFK). Fly to Munich from Philadelphia (PHL), Austin (AUS) and New York (JFK).

4. Spain

Last, but by no means least, millions of tourists visit Spain each year from all over the world, including American travelers. The country has so much to offer, including the shopping, museums, art galleries and more of its capital, Madrid. Meanwhile, Barcelona offers beautiful beaches and the wonderful architecture of Antoni Gaudi, besides its restaurants, lively nightlife and more.

For those seeking an island vacation, choose one of the Balearic Islands, including Ibiza, Mallorca and Menorca, nestling in the Mediterranean Sea. Alternatively, head to one of Spain’s Canary Islands. Located off the coast of Northern Africa, the islands offer striking volcanic scenery and excellent beaches.

Flying American Airlines, head to Madrid (MAD) from New York (JFK), Miami (MIA) or Dallas (DFW) or head to Barcelona (BCN) from Miami (MIA), Dallas (DFW) or Los Angeles (LAX).

Enjoy the best of Europe on your next international vacation, experiencing the history, food, culture and so much more. Check our the flight schedules on the American Airlines' website.

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