Planning a trip

I have just started planning a trip to Europe. Whenever I plan a trip anywhere I find that there is so much overwhelming information in so many different forms, especially on the internet. Information is good, but sometimes it can confuse you more than anythings when there is just too much of it. I've decided to put some of the things I've found useful here on this page.

I've only just started. So there isn't much yet. Watch this space :)

5 Tips: Planning an Itinerary

1. Visit the places that interest you. Be interested in where you’re going and visit a city because you want to, not because you should. Backpacking isn’t a bunch of photo ops, but rather an enjoyable and enriching experience.
2. Make a route that makes sense. If you are flying in and out of the same city, create an itinerary in a circular pattern so you don’t waste time. Travel fatigue can set in quickly, especially if you have to backtrack.
3. Cut your itinerary in half. It’s almost a guarantee that your first itinerary will include too many places in too little time. You will not be able to see all of Europe in two months, and if you try, you won’t enjoy yourself. Make sure you spend at least three or four days in major cities and take into account the time you arrive and the time you leave. If you don’t, you will be exhausted and unsatisfied.
4. Flying isn’t always a breeze. Flying from city to city isn’t as quick as you may think. Most budget airlines fly to and from airports that are a long distance from the city center – a few hours in some cases. On top of that, there are the lines at security, luggage, and the possibility of delays. Take all of this into account.
5. Plans will change. It’s inevitable, so don’t feel guilty if you veer off course. Leave room in your itinerary for the unexpected, especially if you’re traveling solo. You may fall in love with a city and want to stay there for just a few more days, or hate it and want to leave after two. Be prepared by giving yourself flexibility, time, and breathing room.
6. Small cities = big culture. Research the villages and towns that so often fall under the radar. These places are treasures that will give you a chance to meet the locals, experience the culture, and take a break from the exhausting hustle and bustle of the big cities.

Source: http://www.eurotrip.com/content/5-tips-planning-itinerary