If you got it, don’t flaunt it.
Nude and topless areas abound in Europe, and it can be fun to free yourself within these confines. But you wouldn’t wander through New York City in a bathing suit, and the dress appropriate rule is the same while in Europe. No matter how wrong you may think it is, men harass women more when they are dressed in a revealing manner. (And let’s not forget that American women still have an “easy” image in Europe.) You can ward off unwanted attention by staying away from halter tops and short-shorts, and flaunting it only in areas where you are expected to flaunt it. Observe local customs of dress and you will be less of a target for catcalls or worse.

That’s amore (or not).
Many women find themselves approached by local men while traveling through Europe. Part of the thrill of traveling alone is the freedom to change your plans and accept a tour given by someone who really knows the area. But, be safe and stay in public areas. If you find yourself propositioned and you’re not interested, take advantage of the weapon of public humiliation: Yell loudly at the perpetrator to go away. And if that doesn’t work, a well-placed stomp to the instep or kick to the groin will do wonders in making you significantly less alluring to him. Just save these tricks for the most urgent situations—you don’t want your grand tour of France to include doing time in a Parisian jail for assault.