Flying within Europe...How early should I get to the airport?

Mark,

As the others have said, at least two hours prior to flight time would be a good idea.

Which airline are you travelling with? Be sure to pack light as Euro airlines have VERY restrictive baggage limits. Also, many allow only ONE carry-on item, of the approved size and weight.

Happy travels!

About the same as US. A couple of hours before hand. Maybe a little earlier for later in the day and for large airports where security might backup. We had a flight to Frankfurt out of Rome last week at 10AM. Got there around 8:30, checkin was quick, no line and should have gone through security because there was no line at that time either. But we had some coffee and got to security around 9:15 and found the line outside of the ropes. However, it moved rapidly and we spent about 20 mins in the line and security was simple -- no shoes off, no belts, etc.

They are both very busy airports, but regardless, I would arrive at least 2 hours before the flight time. Worst case, you may need to wait until check in opens, which is generally 2 hours before, but could be earlier.

I generally join a queue of about 20 people about 2 hrs 15 mins before the flight.

I do have friends who think this is just a waste of time and turn up just as check in is closing, but not something I would recommend or could do myself.

If you are flying RyanAir, they are sticklers on getting to the gate well before departure and they will have no mercy. If you miss their cut off, you lose your ticket and they will make you pay full, last-minute fare on the next one.