Car essential outside major cities. National Parks require driving. East Coast cities are connected by Amtrak and budget flights.
Travel information
Before you go to United States
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Airports & entry
United States has 7 major international airports. Consider New York (JFK) as your main entry point, or fly in and out from different cities to see more.
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Best trip length
Most visitors spend 10–14 days in United States. Shorter trips work well for focused regions; longer trips let you explore more deeply.
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Regions to know
United States has 4 distinct regions. East Coast and West Coast are the most popular starting points for first-time visitors.
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Getting around
Car essential outside major cities. National Parks require driving. East Coast cities are connected by Amtrak and budget flights.
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Smart planning tip
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Preparation guide
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Travel inspiration
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Travel guide
All about United States
The United States is a land of endless contrasts, from desert landscapes to bustling metropolises, from historic routes to modern innovation. Whether you're exploring the Grand Canyon or walking through glittering cities, America offers an experience for every traveller.
Why visit the United States
The United States draws millions of visitors for reasons that run far deeper than tourist kitsch. The country harbours some of the world's most iconic natural landscapes: think of Monument Valley's imposing buttes with their characteristic sandstone formations, or the extraordinary rock formations of Petrified Forest. But America isn't just about nature. The energy of major cities like San Francisco, with their elevated positions and innovative spirit, contrasts strikingly with the quiet charm of smaller communities along historic routes such as Route 66. For many European visitors, America is a destination where they can feel just how vast and diverse the world truly is. The country also represents an important chapter in world history: a place where you can come face to face with stories of growth, struggle and change that matter universally.
Think big: America is enormous, so plan your route carefully to avoid driving too many kilometres
Mix natural wonders with urban experiences for a complete picture of the country
Understand that America's complex history, from Civil Rights to present-day social issues, is felt in many communities
When to visit America
The best time to visit the United States depends heavily on which regions you want to explore, because the climate varies enormously. For desert areas in Arizona, where attractions like Monument Valley and Petrified Forest National Park are located, months outside summer are ideal; the intense heat of July and August makes hiking exhausting. California and coastal regions enjoy mild weather year-round, but spring and autumn offer the most comfortable temperatures without summer crowds. Major cities like San Francisco peak with tourists in summer, which means popular attractions get busier and accommodation becomes more expensive. If you have flexibility in your planning, you can save tens of dollars per night by travelling in the low season. One practical tip: if you're flying from Europe, book your flight at least several months ahead. It's even better to book early if you want to use frequent flyer miles, because availability can run out quickly.
Desert areas: visit in spring (March to May) or autumn (September to October) for pleasant temperatures
Summer holiday season (June to August) brings heavier tourist traffic and higher prices
Book international flights at least 2-3 months in advance, even earlier if you want to use miles
Getting there and getting around
For Europeans, flying to the United States is quite a long journey. Make sure you arrive at least a day before your planned activities, not on the same day. This gives you time to recover from jet lag and prepare your route. A valid passport is essential: the US government advises that your passport remains valid for at least six months after your planned return date and has at least two blank pages for visas. Once you arrive, transport becomes one of your biggest planning challenges. Distances in America are enormous, much larger than in Europe. Car hire through budget platforms offers great flexibility for road trips, while RV rental (shared by individuals via platforms such as RVshare) provides an affordable alternative. For longer distances between cities, domestic flights can sometimes be surprisingly cheap and save a lot of time. Intercity buses vary in quality but are affordable. For getting around cities, larger ones like San Francisco have extensive public transport.
Don't drive on the same day you arrive - your body and mind need time to adjust
Compare hire cars, domestic flights and RV rentals; sometimes flying is faster and cheaper than driving
Check current closures and route blockages at national parks (National Park Service website) before you leave
Highlights and unmissable experiences
The Grand Canyon is the highlight of an American trip for many visitors: the South Rim offers breathtaking views and plenty of hiking trails for different fitness levels. But don't overlook the lesser-known gems: Monument Valley with its distinctive red sandstone buttes is just as impressive and often less crowded. Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona offers a unique combination of fossils, coloured rock formations and historic Route 66 locations. Route 66 itself is more than just a road: it's a cultural experience. Towns like Holbrook still have original storefronts, restaurants and hotels from this road's golden age; you can even stand at the famous corner in Winslow, Arizona. For urban experiences, San Francisco is a must-visit with its unique topography, innovative spirit and cultural diversity. Visitors seeking a deeper connection with America's social reality should take time to talk with local people about their lives and experiences. These conversations open your eyes in ways no guidebook can.
Allow at least two hours for Petrified Forest National Park - don't just drive through
Grand Canyon South Rim can get busy; arrive early or visit during the low season
Don't make Route 66 drives only about distance; stop and explore the small towns along the way
Practical tips for your trip
Money is essential, so plan your budget carefully before you leave. Silicon Valley and California's coastal cities are among the most expensive places on Earth; accommodation and food can be very costly there. Research in advance how much you want to spend each day and set aside a buffer for unexpected costs. A practical approach is to stay flexible in your planning: domestic flights can sometimes be cheaper than long drives, so compare prices. Language barriers are minimal for Dutch speakers since English is widely spoken, but remember that American English differs significantly from British English in pronunciation and vocabulary. Safety varies widely by region: many cities face serious crime challenges, which stem from deeper systemic injustice. This isn't something to be afraid of, but something to see realistically. Research specific neighbourhoods and follow local advice. Stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and avoid severely run-down areas. For documents: make sure your passport is valid and have copies of important papers ready.
Budget for expensive cities (San Francisco) and cheaper areas; the difference can be enormous
Check passport validity (at least 6 months) and two blank pages before you leave
Research safety by neighbourhood in cities you visit; not all areas are equally safe
Generated from 11 travel guides and experiences · Sources
