Is traveling to Europe on your bucket list? A lot of people want to travel to France, Germany and England, but these are three of the more expensive places to travel to in Europe. Sure, you can watch the changing of the guard and visit castles in England, and you can take that once-in-a-lifetime photo at the Eiffel Tower.
But there are definitely cheaper places in Europe that offer great sights, food and are rich in history.
A few of the cheaper countries to visit are:
-Czech Republic
-Croatia
-Poland
-Slovakia
When traveling on a budget and trying to maximize your vacation in Europe, you can:
Go to Non-tourist Destinations
If you land in Rome, you’ll find that the prices are sky high and that tourists are everywhere. Vendors, hotels and restaurants know that they can charge tourists more money, so you’ll spend far more money in these locations than in Puglia or other regions of Italy.
The same goes for London, Berlin and Paris, where prices for everything are inflated.
Take to the road less traveled, and you’ll find that there are still plenty of great areas to explore, sights to see and history all around you.
You'll want to do your research on places east of Germany due to some areas being potentially unsafe.
Go on the Off-Season
If you’re not planning to go on a beach vacation, choose to visit Europe during the off season. Hotels and B&Bs will charge lower off-season prices, cutting your costs in the process. Off-season offers:
-Cheaper flights
-Cheaper hotels
-Cheaper food (in some cases)
You'll also be able to beat the tourist crowds at top destinations. The off-season, especially when it’s close to the end of peak season, may be two weeks or a month from when you would normally go. September, for example, offers better prices than the last week or August.
Be Cautious of ATM Fees
ATM fees can add up quickly when traveling in Europe. Consult with your bank to see if international fees are waived. If you have to take out money from an ATM, take out more money to help offset unnecessary fees.
Consider a Hostel
If you feel safe and comfortable staying in a hostel, you can spend $15 to $30 a night (on average) during your stay. Hostels are great for the solo traveler, and they can cut back drastically on your accommodation costs.
Limit Eating Out
You’ll want to try local cuisine – most people do. You'll be able to try local foods that you would never have the opportunity to try in your own country. But you don’t need to go to a restaurant for every meal.
If you rent an Airbnb or apartment, you can go to a local grocery store and purchase goods.
Lidl and Aldi have stores across Europe that offer great good at an affordable price.
Mass Transit May Be a Great Option
I often like to rent a car when I go on vacation, but if you’re planning on just going to big cities, skip the car rental and consider a transit card. You can pay as little as €1.40 a ticket with a transit card in Brussels using the MOBIB card.
Just keep in mind that transit lines close, so you’ll want to make sure that you’re on schedule and cognizant of the time mass transit closes.
Groups Can Save When Driving
If you have a large group, four or more people, you may save money by driving rather than paying for rail passes or other options. Keeping track of everyone and what they want to do is easier when you’re all close together in a car or van.
But don’t try driving around in large cities.
A lot of travelers will rent a car and never use it because it’s easier to walk, use a rail or hail a taxi rather than drive in a hectic city center.
Take Out Travel Insurance Just in Case
Yes, you’ll spend more money on travel insurance, but if you’re pre-booking everything, travel insurance can save your trip. Imagine losing all of your luggage or potentially being injured and not being able to go on your once-in-a-lifetime trip.
Travel insurance can offer you peace of mind if something goes wrong and you’re unable to make or complete your trip.
Injuries can also occur when you’re on vacation. An offshore injury may be covered by maritime laws, but an onshore injury can be very complicated. Every country has its own injury laws, and your medical insurance will likely not follow you overseas.
Travel insurance may have emergency medical coverage included if you need medical assistance during your travels.
You have to be creative when traveling to Europe. Try traveling the road less taken, travel during off-seasons and make sure to see what mass transit options are available.
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