No doubt Europe is a popular and breathtaking travel destination. But it’s also often labeled as one of the world’s most expensive places! The hefty cost of living and costly hotel rates make it a pricey proposition. This article talks about some of the best saving tips that you can apply on your next European trip.
1. One thing at a time
Go slow, enjoy the place. Instead of bouncing around from one place to another, consider exploring (in depth) a particular region at a time.
Imagine trying to cram Rome, Venice, Florence, and Milan all in a seven-day long trip! What is the point of spending just a few hours in so many cities? You’ll waste the money traveling to so many places, drain your energy running around on such a tight schedule, and will definitely miss out on important sites you should visit. Rather, you can spend an entire week in Florence and take short day trips to nearby towns in Tuscany and then move to the next destination. That is a relaxing and better way to experience the beauty of a place!
2. Travel in low season
Well, we suggest this for each and every destination you ever plan to visit.
Heading to a destination during on seasons has too many disadvantages. The places are overcrowded (those long lines in front of famous sites and museums will surely test your patience!), everything is highly overpriced and, most importantly, you’ll get the least authentic travel experience of the place.
The ideal time for traveling to Europe is any month or season but the summers! Just avoid visiting Europe from June to August.
3. Visit new destinations
Choose lesser-visited destinations that offer just as amazing an experience. This will get you closer to the country and its culture and will also help to save more. Countries like Romania, Portugal, Malta, Poland, and Bosnia are all incredible destinations in their own way.
4. Save on accommodation
Rather than opting for a traditional hotel, make use of the sharing economy. Look around for a good hostel or you can also check online for various local options to save on your accommodation. Here are few accommodation options you can try next time and make sure you enjoy your trip to and explore the place instead of spending your entire tip in the hotel room.
5. Look out for free entertainment
Keep an eye on the local newspapers or ask at your hotel for upcoming or ongoing performances in the nearby areas, the local park, the theater, or the church. It is a great way to interact with the locals and save money on the entertainment part!
6. Save on currency rate fluctuations
The currency rate fluctuations and the extra charges applied while using your credit or debit card abroad will quickly add up to your traveling expense. The best way to avoid this is to get a good Forex Card. They work like an ATM and can help you save more!
Forex cards from trusted brands like Matrix Cellular offer preferential exchange rates and you can get instant cash in the currency you require. Also, Matrix Forex Card comes with complimentary health insurance cover and you can save more if you get a prepaid or postpaid International SIM card along with it.
7. Eat like the locals
Avoid flashy restaurant or food outlets that are especially for the tourists. Chances are they’ll charge you more. Instead, ask the locals about the best eating points around the place.
You can also cook your own meal. Just get to the nearest local market and shop for fresh items. Here are few dishes you must taste on your trip.
Quick tip:
If you are in Italy, don’t forget to ask for aperitivo, the free snacks that come with a drink before dinner. Many restaurants in Spain offer menudel dia, a discounted three-course meal with a glass of wine. Also, try these top 10 dishes if you visit Paris.
8. Don't overtip
In most European nations the norm is 10 percent. But first, check whether a service charge has already been added to your bill; if yes, you don't need to leave anything additional. Check online for the tipping information of the country you are visiting.
9. Purchase discount cards
Many major cities across Europe offer a City Card that includes special discounts on public transportation and free entry to museums and other major attractions. Make sure that you get a good value of the card.
10. Look for free-entry days
Paris offers free museum entry on the first Sunday of the month. Venice offers free entry to some of the museums and galleries in the evening on the last Tuesday of every month.
Similarly, many other cities offer free entry to their attractions on a particular day. Just look online and plan your museum visit accordingly.
11. Save on your mobile bills
One of your biggest tasks while traveling on a tight budget is to control the mobile expenses! It’s good to carry one of the European SIM cards that could help you save more on your mobile expenses. Although, people recommend buying a local SIM card once you land in the country if you plan to travel to more than one country in a single trip, changing the SIM card each time will not be a good idea. For this, you can get a prepaid or postpaid European SIM card by Matrix Cellular that offers free incoming calls and free data.
Also, if you will need a good amount of internet connection for your trip, consider carrying a portable Wifi.
Also, if you will need a good amount of internet connection for your trip, consider carrying a portable Wifi.
Conclusion
The best way to save money in Europe is by harnessing local knowledge. Just look around, visit the Tourist Information desks and check online to find the best advice on how to travel around the place for less.
Note: This article was originally published by me as 11 Money-Saving European Travel Tips