Europe is a treasure trove of iconic destinations, and it’s no surprise many travellers choose to extend their trips to take in as much as possible. However, the costs can quickly mount up when the cost of flights, accommodation, transport, meals, and attractions are added in – not to mention unexpected medical bills or accidents.
That’s why finance gurus from Finansplassen have shared their top tips for keeping costs down while travelling in Europe, without compromising on the experience. Some of these tips could even enhance your trip by giving you a more authentic experience.
Before you set off, do your homework
Once you’ve decided where you’re going, it’s worth spending some time online to plan your journey and see what options are available. This can help you avoid many of the usual costs by finding cheaper deals on transport and accommodation.
Flights can be one of the biggest expenses when travelling, so it’s worth comparing prices from different airlines and travel sites to get the best deal. You might also find that flights departing a day earlier or later than your preferred date are cheaper.
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Another savvy way to save some cash is by checking out all-inclusive city passes aimed at tourists in your chosen destination. These often include free entry to attractions and limited use of public transport, or they might offer discounts for certain activities and eateries.
While the allure of a European summer holiday may be strong, it’s worth noting this is when prices are likely to be at their highest due to the influx of tourists. Some cities see similar footfall in early winter, so spring and autumn could be the ideal seasons to plan your trips.
Summer travel can also impact your accommodation choices and sightseeing plans, as popular spots are likely to be booked up or crowded. It’s advisable to pick times that sidestep the summer holidays and peak tourist seasons.
Additionally, you might find your experience feels less authentic during the summer months in major cities and towns, as there will be fewer locals around to interact with. Plus, it’s likely to be much cooler in less urban locations.
Public transport is typically very efficient in European cities and is a much cheaper option than taxis. Check out the local metro systems and bus routes to see if there are any travel passes you could benefit from.
You should also be walking about as much as possible to enjoy the European streets and save money along the way. Many major attractions end up being close together or can easily be found by just following the central walking routes through the main cities.
Cycling is another option for easy travel that is already utilised by many locals. Renting a bike to use for your whole stay is likely to be more cost effective than hiring them from pay-as-you-go stations for short distances, just be sure to bring strong security locks.
Avoid the unnecessary restaurant charges by sourcing your meals from cheaper options. Grocery stores are abundant in Europe and offer many different options that are perfect for tourists, including pre-made sandwiches and meal deals.
Find the freshest ingredients by visiting local food markets, either on select days of the week or searching for a permanent location. This is a great way to become immersed in the local culture as well, especially in countries that take their food very seriously.
You could also consider staying somewhere with a kitchen or cooking facilities. Cooking your own meals is always going to be cheaper than visiting restaurants and cafes all the time, which can be especially cost effective for long stays.
Visit affordable attractions
Every city has its main draws for tourists, but these areas can be very expensive as a result. You should look for attractions that are safely within your budget or maybe even free to visit, like public gardens or historic landmarks, that can be just as satisfying.
There are many sources of information for these sorts of activities, including searching online each day or checking travel guides. Similarly, you can ask the locals what they would recommend seeing to discover some locations that otherwise might be missed.
If you do book tours or excursions, make sure to shop around. There are likely to be multiple options for tour guides in the area that will offer different experiences and prices.
You could also inquire at the reception of your accommodation to see if there are any deals for where you are staying.
Prepare for unexpected circumstances
It is difficult to know exactly what will happen when travelling abroad, which is why it is safest to prepare for the worst to avoid outrageous costs. This could include medical emergencies or unexpected travel delays that may prevent you from catching transport.
See whether your flights or holiday packages include travel insurance or look at deals that may be cheaper for families and/or couples. Some bank accounts can also include insurance package benefits but ensure this will cover exactly what you need.
For those planning a European getaway, don’t forget to pack your free European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or the UK’s Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). These cards grant you access to state-provided healthcare at the same rates as insured locals, which is often free of charge.