Europe is home to many tourist attractions, rich ancient history and first-world public transportation. There are lots of things to do in the world’s most visited continent and lots of ways to save money including peering through the gates of Buckingham Palace and using car-sharing services, but those things will only get you so far. Do you want to travel with your family to Europe but are afraid that your trip will cost arm and leg? Don’t worry, the good news is that there are plenty of budget-friendly travel options.
How can I travel to/through Europe on a low budget? The main way you can save on cost is by travelling during the off-season (this varies throughout Europe, depending on what you want to do). So you’ve decided where you want to go and when you want to go, but what about where to stay, what to do and how to get around? Here are 5 travel options if you are on a budget.
Consider a B&B or Guesthouse
If you want to save on cost when it comes to accommodation, why not choose to spend your nights in a Bed and Breakfasts (B&Bs) instead of expensive hotels? What do B&Bs have over hotels?
Modern B&Bs offer more value and luxury compared to hotels. Research shows that 3 in 4 Bed and Breakfasts offer better amenities than hotels, according to travellers. Additionally, they offer Wi-Fi, homemade breakfast, parking, concierge and bottled water at no extra cost.
For example, there are over 43,000 B&Bs in Greek Islands that are highly rated and close to beaches and attraction sites. Spend your nights in them and save lots of money.
Compare The Cost of Hotels
One of the best ways to save on money while visiting a major city is by spending your nights in hostels. However, if you prefer hotels over hostels, make sure that you find a great deal as hotels can be expensive and if you are travelling on a budget, your cash will not stretch far.
Therefore, look for a great budget hotel instead. Ideally, you should look for one that is not far from attractions and near a tube to save on travel expenses.
Before settling on one hotel, make sure that you check its ratings online for the most affordable hotels in central London or whatever city you are planning on staying in. Additionally, check if the surrounding neighbourhood is secure. Most importantly, make sure that the hotel does not compromise on the quality of services just because it is cheap.
Travel By Train
Flying is a quick and easy way to get to various destinations in Europe. Even though there are numerous budget airlines across Europe, this mode of transportation can be quite expensive. Especially if you opt to add a seat reservation, priority boarding, a hold bag etc.
To save some coins, why not use trains instead?
Euro rail and inter-rail will help you get to most places in Europe in a fast and comfortable manner. Trains are a better alternative to cheap flights as they allow you to visit multiple destinations efficiently. Additionally, interrail allows borderless transport across Europe. One interrail ticket can take you across borders, saving cost and the environment at the same time.
Opt for Outdoor Activities
One of the reasons that you should visit Europe is the abundance of fun outdoor activities on this continent.
In Italy, for instance, you can undertake family-friendly Italy inspired holiday activities such as cycling or even walking around and taking in the culturally and visually stunning surroundings.
Alternatively, you can go hiking in popular trails – such as the Volca de Santa Margarida Loop – or go rock climbing. These activities are fun, inexpensive (which is great if you’re budget conscious) and healthy.
Shop At The Local Markets
Food adds to the total cost of travelling significantly. The average price of a hotel and three meals a day can soon add up.
Instead of eating out or eating where you are staying, shop for food locally. Most major cities and towns have at least one market. Some of our favourites are the markets in Copenhagen.
Shopping like this will not only help to save on cost, but also give you more options and allow you to try new dishes. One of the popular markets that you should check out is the Torvehallerne food market.
If you are afraid that your trip to Europe will be expensive, it doesn’t have to be. If you check out some of these travel options if you are on a budget you should be able to save yourself a pretty penny.
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