We’ve all heard the stereotypes, right?
Americans arriving in Europe with their extra-large coffees and broad smiles, eager to explore every nook and cranny of the continent, but sometimes missing the subtle cultural cues along the way.
I live in London, and over the years, I’ve witnessed countless tourists stand out in ways that make locals cringe. It’s not always overt, but there are little (and not so little) habits many Americans bring with them that can create unintended friction.
Now, don’t get me wrong—I’ve met my fair share of wonderful American travelers who genuinely embrace local culture. But certain behaviors keep popping up over and over.
I used to work in digital communications before becoming a writer, so observing how people interact and communicate is practically second nature to me. And after so many “tourist-watching” moments while strolling through London’s bustling streets (often with my son in tow), I’ve seen a distinct set of behaviors that locals tend to mutter about once the visitors are out of earshot.
If you’ve ever traveled to Europe—or plan to—this list might just save you from a few awkward encounters.
Let’s explore these points.
1. Speaking too loudly in quiet spaces
Let’s start with the biggest culprit. Europeans generally place a high value on keeping public spaces calm.
You’ll notice it on the Tube here in London, on local buses in Madrid, or even in small cafés in Paris. Yet, I see some American visitors marching in, voices full volume, excitedly sharing every detail of their itinerary.
It’s great to be enthusiastic, but here’s the thing: a lot of locals appreciate a certain level of hush. When you’re used to big open spaces and lively restaurants back home, it can be easy to forget that in some parts of Europe, public quietness is almost a form of respect.
Believe me, I’ve seen more than a few raised eyebrows when a group of Americans starts animatedly discussing their next stop in hushed train carriages.
I once asked a French friend how she feels when she hears particularly loud conversations in a tiny bistro.
She shrugged and said, “It makes me feel like my own dining space is being invaded.” That’s exactly it—no one wants to feel like their personal experience is overshadowed. So if you find yourself in a cozy, intimate spot, consider lowering the decibels.
2. Expecting 24/7 service culture
I get it—when I first moved from a more corporate environment to freelance writing, I had a tough time disconnecting from the idea that the world is always “on.”
This can be especially jarring for Americans who arrive in Europe expecting shops and restaurants to be open around the clock. But guess what? Many European cities love their holidays, siestas, and Sundays off. And that’s a beautiful thing.
Still, I often see visitors baffled when they can’t grab a quick bite at 10 p.m. outside of a big city, or are shocked that certain stores are closed for lunch.
It can feel inconvenient if you’re used to the hustle of “open all hours” in parts of the United States. Locals, though, may quietly bristle at complaints about “inconvenient” hours or last-minute demands at closing time. They value their time off and assume visitors should adapt, not the other way around.
If you take the time to appreciate the slower pace—maybe indulging in a two-hour lunch in Italy or strolling leisurely through a Sunday market in France—you’ll find a whole new appreciation for life’s simpler pleasures.
3. Complaining about differences (food portions, air conditioning, etc.)
Once, while traveling through Rome with my son, I overheard an American couple complaining that their hotel room had no air conditioning.
They were, quite literally, fuming about how “unbearably hot” it was. Now, in some places in Italy, especially older buildings, strong air conditioning isn’t always the norm. It’s something I’ve gotten used to, and locals often adapt by opening windows or relying on breezes.
Yet the complaint continued for an entire breakfast: the coffee was too small, the Wi-Fi too slow, the sidewalks too narrow. It made me feel so embarrassed, especially since the server tried her best to appease them.
Here in Europe, part of the joy is in those differences: smaller coffees, older architecture, a slower approach to daily life.
4. Tipping confusion
I had a friend visit me from the States who left a hefty 25% tip at a London pub.
The waiter was genuinely surprised and almost awkward about it. Tipping norms vary wildly across Europe; in some countries, it’s already included in the bill, and in others, you might just round up to the nearest euro or pound.
Over-tipping can seem showy to some, while under-tipping (or not tipping at all in a place where it’s expected) can be taken as an insult.
Your best bet? Read up on the tipping culture of each country.
It’s not that locals can’t stand generosity—they just might feel uncomfortable or see it as ignorance if you leave an American-style tip in places where it’s not the custom.
And if service is included, you don’t want to pay twice. Researching local norms before traveling or politely asking your server is a surefire way to avoid those awkward moments.
5. Not attempting even basic local phrases
Attempting local phrases isn’t just polite—it’s a sign you’re interested in connecting with the local culture.
However, I still come across travelers who barrel into a bakery or shop speaking rapid-fire English, then get frustrated if the person behind the counter isn’t fluent or doesn’t respond in the same language.
Just asking, “Parlez-vous anglais?” in France or “Sprechen Sie Englisch?” in Germany can make a world of difference. Even a simple “Grazie” (thank you in Italy) or “Gracias” (thank you in Spain) shows you’re making an effort.
Locals usually appreciate your attempts, even if your accent is off.
6. Dressing inappropriately for local customs
I’ve always been mindful of what I pack when I’m heading somewhere new. After all, Europe is home to centuries-old churches, sacred sites, and deeply held traditions.
Unfortunately, I’ve seen some Americans walk right into places of worship wearing tank tops or very short shorts. Meanwhile, locals are covered out of respect.
One summer, I went to Barcelona and decided to check out the Sagrada Família. A couple ahead of me in line were almost denied entry because they were wearing bathing suits under see-through cover-ups, fresh from the beach.
The staff eventually asked them to wear spare scarves they had on hand. They seemed annoyed, but locals definitely took note—and some made disapproving comments in Catalan.
Like anything, doing a little research about dress codes, especially for famous churches or religious festivals, can save you from more than just dirty looks.
It can help you feel more integrated with the local norms, too.
7. Only sticking to familiar American chains
When I see visitors making a beeline for the Starbucks in central London—or worse, searching for the nearest McDonald’s in Rome—I can’t help but feel they’re missing out on what makes these places so special.
There’s a time and place for comfort food, sure, especially if you’re traveling with kids (trust me, I know—my son sometimes craves a taste of home).
However, if you stick exclusively to the usual fast-food chains, locals can’t help but wonder why you came all this way in the first place.
I’ve heard Italians joke, “Why come to Rome just to eat in an American chain restaurant?” The underlying sentiment is that it feels disrespectful to the local culinary culture.
Trust me: a freshly made croissant in a tiny Parisian bakery is miles better than anything you’d find from a global coffee chain.
8. Comparing everything to “back home”
Last but definitely not least, the habit of comparing all things foreign to the American version.
Statements like, “In the U.S., we’d never do it that way,” or “It’s so much bigger/better/cheaper at home,” can ruffle local feathers.
Sure, you might prefer how certain things function in your hometown, but continuously pointing it out can make Europeans feel like their homeland is always “less than.”
When I hear Americans comparing everything from transportation systems to portion sizes, I sometimes want to gently tap them on the shoulder and say, “Embrace the difference.”
The bottom line is: it’s okay to not always understand or agree with a different way of living, as long as you’re respectful and open to learning.
Wrapping up
So there you have it—a handful of habits that can rub European locals the wrong way.
I’m not saying every American tourist does all these things, nor am I implying that it’s all negative vibes whenever Americans hit European shores. Far from it.
I’ve met countless American travelers who are genuinely curious, polite, and open-minded.
But if you’re planning a trip to Europe or anywhere else for that matter, it pays to be aware of the cultural norms.
Doing a bit of research, learning a few key phrases, and showing respect for local customs can transform your experience (and spare you a few side-eyes in the process).
