Lost in Translation? Not Quite. A Traveler’s Guide to English in Europe
Let’s be honest: English is the unofficial second language of Europe. You can order a cappuccino in Croatia, ask for directions in Denmark, and even argue about pineapple on pizza in Italy—all in English. But before you pack your bags and your best British accent, here’s what you need to know:
First, a shoutout to England
Yes, the land of tea, sarcasm, and questionable weather is where the English language was born. From Shakespeare’s soliloquies to pub banter, England gave the world a language that now echoes through airport announcements and hostel lobbies across the continent. So if you ever feel smug about speaking English abroad—thank the Brits (and maybe apologize for the spelling inconsistencies).
Where English Will Be Your Best Friend
- Nordics (Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland): They speak better English than your high school teacher. You might even feel underqualified.
- Netherlands & Belgium: Fluent, friendly, and often sarcastic in English. You’ll fit right in.
- Germany & Austria: Most people under 40 will chat with you in English. Just don’t expect it during small-town sausage festivals.
- Portugal & Greece: Tourist zones are English-friendly. Venture inland and you might need to mime your way to the nearest bus stop.
- Eastern Europe (Czechia, Hungary, Poland): English is common in cities, less so in villages. Prepare to point, gesture, and smile a lot.
Where You Might Hit the Language Wall
- France: English is understood, but don’t expect it to be welcomed with open arms. A “Bonjour” goes a long way.
- Spain & Italy: In tourist hotspots, you’ll be fine. In rural areas, English might be as rare as a quiet espresso bar.
- Balkans & Baltics: It’s a mixed bag. Younger folks often speak English, older generations… not so much.
Pro Tips for Surviving the Silence
- Learn 5 words: “Hello,” “Thank you,” “Yes,” “No,” and “Toilet.” Trust me, the last one is vital. In France, whenever you enter a shop etc, ALWAYS say “bonjour” (in the evening, “bonsoir”) or they hate you forever!
- Download a translation app. Bonus points if it works offline—because Wi-Fi in the Alps is not a guarantee.
- Smile. It’s the universal language. That, and pointing at menus like your life depends on it.