15 Amazing European Practices We Wish Americans Would Try

Imagine if a handful of European practices could inject a bit of balance, sustainability, and joy into your everyday life. However, European culture and that of the United States differ significantly. But looking deeper, you could enhance your life with some European practices. Regarding food, day-to-day work-life balance, and personal well-being, there is a lot Americans can take from how Europeans do things.  

According to the European Union, many Europeans perceive cultural diversity as a defining characteristic of Europe, and many support and promote cultural exchange at the EU level. 

These habits are based on centuries of traditions, and many are evidenced by research to be effective. Here are 15 things that every American should try from Europe at least once.  

Slow, Leisurely Meals

European meals are what you would call ‘more of an experience than just the food.’ Meals in France or Spain average up to 2 to 3 hours, versus the half-hour American mealtime. Europeans typically aren’t rushed out of restaurants and maintain relaxed, meaningful conversations around the table.  

Try it: Over the weekend, plan a multi-course family dinner, emphasizing not cooking but being together. Put your phone down and enjoy each piece of food.

Fresh, Local Ingredients

In Europe, most go to the market often to buy fresh produce. In Italy, over 70 percent of people stop by local farmers’ markets weekly to keep meals alive, healthy, and sustainable. Compare this with the U.S., where processed food makes up 60% of the average diet.  

Try it: Visit your local farmers’ market and include more unprocessed ingredients in your meals. Simple and delicious, a fresh tomato and basil dish can make a great start to a meal.  

Aperitivo Culture

An Italian aperitivo is a way to blend pleasure and socializing. It’s a pre-dinner ritual of a light drink with small bites—olives or charcuterie. This practice indicates switching from work to relaxation and strengthens social connections.  

Try it: When hosting, prepare a tray of light snacks and a refreshing spritz to unwind before dinner. Aperitivo is more than just an appetizer; it’s an experience.  

Walking Everywhere

The European lifestyle revolves around walking—for health but by necessity too.  

Try it: Take the car less often for shorter trips under a mile and try to walk instead. For example, StepBet or FitBit can encourage you to add daily steps.  

Afternoon Siesta

While they are not quite as prevalent in Europe today, Spain is one of the few countries that considers its siesta nothing short of sacred. Short, between twenty- and thirty-minute naps increase productivity and reduce stress, as this Sleep Foundation study proves.  

Try it: You don’t have to do a full siesta but embrace a short (screen-free) recharge during the afternoon.  

Sauna Culture

While saunas are thought to be strictly for detoxification and relaxation, Scandinavians use them with cold plunges. Research done at Harvard School has found that regular sauna use improves cardiovascular health. 

Try it: Find a local spa or gym with a sauna, or do it yourself with a portable sauna kit for some at-home relaxation.  

Ample Vacation Time

While Americans only average 10 days of paid leave annually (and often don’t take it all), Europeans enjoy 4–6 weeks a year. Consistent research from the American Psychological Association shows vacations generally decrease stress and increase happiness.  

Try it: Even if it’s a long weekend, take regular vacations seriously and commit to not checking work.  

Work to Live, Not Live to Work

For Europeans, career ambition is no more important than spending time with loved ones and having leisure. European citizens spend 2–3 more hours daily on personal interests and hobbies than Americans.  

Try it: Limit after-hours email and make time for hobbies or family.  

Café Culture

Europeans love their coffee breaks, where they may spend hours in the corner of a cozy cafe, people-watching, reading, or chatting. Unlike the U.S. “coffee-to-go” mindset, café culture encourages slowing down and being present.  

Try it: Go to a local café, enjoy your coffee in-house, and have a good book with you or a mate.  

Greeting with Kisses

In many European countries, a cheek kiss greeting is standard and a warm and personal way of expressing connection.  

Try it: This isn’t for all Americans, but adding touchy gestures such as handshakes or hugs can help forge social bonds.  

Public Transportation

Trains, trams, and subways are the chains Europeans depend on to be efficient and sustainable. While only 5% of Americans take public transportation regularly, as per the American Community Survey (ACS), over 70% of Europeans do, according to data from the European Commission. 

Try it: Take trains or buses for your next trip. They’re cost-effective and eco-friendly.  

Bring Your Bags

As per Belfast Telegraph, plastic bag charges in Europe have resulted in an 82.9 percent reduction in bag usage in places like Ireland, and citizens have been encouraged to bring their bags.  

Try it: Always keep a reusable bag in your car or purse to reduce waste.  

Robust Recycling

Recycling is a serious business for Europeans. According to Eurostat, in 2019, Germany recycled 66% of its municipal waste versus 32% in the U.S.  

Try it: Learn your local recycling guidelines and meticulously sort your trash.  

Multilingualism

European people can speak 2-3 languages fluently on average; that is how much they value cultural exchange and education. It also improves your cognitive skills, as per studies.  

Try it: Use apps such as Duolingo to learn a new language or learn basic phrases for your next trip abroad.  

Cultural Festivals

Festivals display Europe’s marvelous heritage and bring people together, whether it’s Germany’s Christmas markets or Spain’s La Tomatina.  

Try it: Find out what local cultural festivals or seasonal events exist—we may have some closer to home than we might think.  

Changing big is sometimes overrated—it’s about tiny intentional changes that can lead to taking advantage of European practices. These habits can help us balance sustainability and be more in touch with one another by rigorously savoring meals, recycling, and more. Find out what resonates the most, and play with that.

Are you curious to start? Begin with one or two practices, and never forget that the impact of these changes is multiplicative over time. Happy experimenting!  

Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.

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