Tip #1 - EuroCheapo

 Hi there and welcome, fellow Cheapo! We launched
EuroCheapo.com in 2001 with the goal of making travel
through Europe affordable and memorable. In the years
since, our editors have visited thousands of hotels, taken
innumerable train trips, spent nights in airports, run out of
gas in rental cars, and eaten our fair share of currywurst.
During this time, weʼve picked up money-saving tips of all
shapes and sizes -- lessons occasionally learned the hard
way. The list that follows is a compilation of some of our best
tricks to help you save on the big ticket essentials (airfare,
car rental, train tickets and hotel rooms) and help lower your
budget in five of Europeʼs priciest cities.
We hope these tips will help you experience more while
spending less. And thanks for using EuroCheapo.com!
About these tips: The travel information contained in this
booklet was written by the editors and correspondents of
EuroCheapo.com. For more detailed information about these
subjects, consult the URLs at the end of each section.
All information contained herein is © 2012 by Over There
Interactive, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
First the essentials: Before you hop on that flight, hereʼs a list of
planning tips that are sure to help you get off on the right foot. From
understanding bank charges and accessing money on the road, to
calling to say “hi” to mom for less, these simple steps will help stretch
your trip budget.
Tip #1: Tell your bank about your trip.
Call your bank and credit card companies to tell them that youʼll be
traveling abroad. This is important for them to know, as foreign
charges and ATM withdrawals may signal an internal “red-flag” and
could result in your account being frozen. Thatʼs really not something
you want to deal with from, say, the cobblestoned streets of Florence.
Tip #2: Know if your bank charges a foreign ATM
withdrawal fee. Also, do they charge a percentage
of the withdrawal? Both?
This will vary widely among banks, however many banks charge
$1.50 to $5 per withdrawal AND some add a foreign transaction fee
of 1-3%. However, some banks will only charge a flat fee and others
may only charge a percentage. Know before you go.
Tip #3: Know if your bank charges a foreign
transaction fee for debit card charges.
Just as ATM fees vary widely, debit card charges are all over the
place. For the most part, however, the bank will assess a foreign
transaction fee, and most hover around 3%. In some cases, itʼs
slightly less. Weʼve also heard of banks charging both a foreign
transaction percentage AND a flat-fee for debit charges.
Tip #4: Know if your credit card charges a foreign
transaction fee.
For most credit cards, the answer will be yes. Itʼs often around 3%,
but, like everything else, it varies from card to card. Notably, the
Capital One credit card does not charge any foreign transaction fees
for purchases abroad, which has made it quite popular with travelers.
Also, if you have multiple credit cards, chances are theyʼll charge
differently - use the one with the lower rates, Cheapos!
Tip #5: What does your credit card charge for
cash advances?
Most cards will charge a percentage of the cash advance, plus any
other fees that your card would normally charge for an advance.
Some banks also set a minimum cash advance fee. Know your credit
cardʼs policy before you make that withdrawal!
Tip #6: Pack lightly.
Most transatlantic airlines allow one checked bag for free, but have
introduced ridiculous fees for checking a second, third or overweight
bag. For flights from the US to Europe, these fees can be as high as
$200 per bag. One way. (Ouch.)
Tip #7: Be careful when using American iPhones
in Europe.
Americans heading to Europe should be careful before powering up
their iPhones abroad. AT&T and other carriers offer various data
plans for European travel, and almost all of them are too expensive to
be a serious option for budget travelers. The easiest tip: Switch your
settings to “Airplane mode” and turn on your Wi-Fi. Youʼll only be able
to access email when you have a Wi-Fi connection, but free
connections are increasingly easy to find. Which brings us to...
Tip #8: Nab free Wi-Fi at McDonaldʼs.
Many McDonaldʼs (and other large fast food restaurants) throughout
Europe offer free Wi-Fi. If you have a smartphone, head to one to use
their free Wi-Fi, check your emails and make Skype calls back home.
If you can “bundle” your calls into one or two sneaky McDonaldʼs
visits each week, youʼll save a bundle on international phone
charges.
Additional information:
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ATMs, Debit cards, and questions for your bank:
http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/atms-debit-cards-credit-cardsfees-in-europe-questions-for-your-bank.html
iPhones in Europe: http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/using-anamerican-iphone-in-europe…-without-going-broke.html
Havenʼt bought your tickets yet? No problem. We have plenty of
suggestions for snagging great deals on flights, knowing when it is
(and isnʼt) worth it to rent a car, saving money on transportation
around cities, and making the most of train travel. All aboard!
Tip #9: Set up airfare alerts.
Havenʼt booked your airline tickets yet? Set up airfare alerts to be
notified of flight deals on Web sites like Kayak.com and
Airfarewatchdog.com.
Tip #10: Know when to snag international airfare
deals.
According to a recent study by the airline experts at Kayak.com,
booking 34 days prior to departure is approximately 4% cheaper than
booking six months in advance.
Tip #11: Take public transportation to and from
the airport.
Every one of the major European cities we cover on EuroCheapo
offers public transportation from the airport to the center of town, and
the majority offer both train and bus options. For more information
about these, check out the “Getting In” articles in each of our city
guides.
Tip #12: Think twice before booking a rail pass.
Itʼs easy to forget that European rail passes purchased outside of
Europe, such as the Eurailpass, are not always a good deal. Sure,
they offer some convenience and peace of mind, but they often donʼt
save you money over simply buying individual point-to-point rail
tickets (like the millions of Europeans who take trains daily). The
exception here is if you plan to fill your trip with numerous longdistance trips by train. Plot it out and compare the prices.
Tip #13: Book major train tickets in advance.
We recommend booking long-distance train tickets in advance,
directly with the European railways themselves, like the SNCF
(France), Deutsche Bahn (Germany), Trenitalia (Italy) and Renfe
(Spain). For long-distance train travel, ticket prices climb as the travel
date approaches, so advance booking is essential to getting a deal.
Furthermore, most of these railways offer discounted “saver” tickets
that sell out quickly.
Tip #14: Know the real cost of renting a car.
How much will that rental car really cost you? When you do a quick
rental car search online, the rates you see will most likely not include
taxes or insurance, and certainly wonʼt include the price of gas or the
tolls that youʼll pay on major highways. And what about parking? Add
it all up in advance to know what the total cost will likely be.
Tip #15: When traveling within Europe, know
whether it makes more sense to fly or take a train.
Decide carefully between flying and taking the train around Europe.
Calculate the real travel time of the trip, adding in time to and from the
airport and time for security. Also add up the real cost of the flight,
including baggage fees and transportation to the airport. And most
importantly, if the cost and time is equal, which way do you prefer to
travel?
Tip #16: Also consider taking the “slow train.”
When booking train tickets, think outside the high-speed rail network.
Every journey deserves time, and in our recent meanderings by rail
around Europe weʼve made some engaging slow diversions, favoring
rural branch lines that really tap into the spirit of local landscapes.
Plus, slowing it down is a great way to also spend less.
Additional information:
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Saving on airfare, rail passes and more.
http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/cheapo-basics-10-ways-tosave-on-the-big-items-in-your-travel-budget.html
Considerations before booking rail tickets:
http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/european-train-travel-someimportant-considerations-before-booking-train-tickets.html
Read this before you buy European rail passes:
http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/what-kind-of-rail-pass.html
Calculating the “real cost” of renting a car in Europe:
http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/renting-a-car-how-tocalculate-the-real-cost-of-car-rentals-in-europe.html
Whether youʼre planning to travel for two days or 20 days, where you
stay can have a big impact on both your budget and your trip
experience. Here are some tips for booking the right hotels for your
trip.
Tip #17: Think about location before price.
We often hear from travelers who book the cheapest hotel they can
find, only to realize itʼs located far outside the center, and isnʼt easily
accessible to areas they want to visit. This can cause an undue
expenditure of both time and money, but fortunately it can be avoided
with advance planning. Consider paying just a bit more for something
more central or closer to public transportation.
Tip #18: Be flexible with your travel schedule.
If you plan to visit more than one city during your trip, flexibility with
your itinerary can help save money. For example, if youʼre visiting
Brussels and Bruges, know that hotel rates in Brussels are always
lower on the weekends (because there are fewer business travelers),
so why not visit Bruges from Wednesday to Friday and Brussels on
Saturday and Sunday?
Tip #19: Try to avoid school holidays when
choosing travel dates.
Having a sense of local travel patterns is a smart way of seeing
Europe at its best while trimming costs. For example, beware of the
last week of October and first week in November, when two-thirds of
schoolchildren in the European Union have a fall break, and many of
them hit the road.
Tip #20: Shop around for your hotel rates.
Once youʼve narrowed your list down to a handful of hotels that look
good, always compare rates across several reservation websites.
Hotel owners frequently use more than one reservation agency to
manage their bookings, but can charge different room rates
depending on the commercial terms of their contracts. So shop
around, Cheapos, and compare prices to make sure youʼre getting
the best deal. (Luckily, when you search on EuroCheapo, we
compare rates from around the web for you. Done!)
Tip #21: Consider which amenities you really
need, and skip the ones that are just nice to have.
When is the last time you had a truly delicious breakfast at a hotel?
While they do exist, if it isnʼt included in your room rate, weʼd
recommend skipping it altogether and starting your day at the cute
café down the street. Itʼll be cheaper. Also, think about the room
amenities that you really need to enjoy your visit. Is a satellite TV a
necessity? Do you need air conditioning in Vienna in early June? The
difference between a one-star and a three-star hotel might be more
noticeable in your wallet than in your room.
Tip #22: Donʼt forget about hostels.
Consider booking a private room in a youth hostel to save money.
Most hostels offer both private and dorm-style rooms, and many have
gone to great lengths to shed their image as a lair exclusively for
round-the-world backpackers (not that thereʼs anything at all wrong
with RTW backpacking, of course).
Tip #23: More stars do not always make a better
hotel.
You can be certain that a four-star hotel offers elevators, room
service, private baths, cable TV, Internet, air conditioning and so
forth. But it doesnʼt say anything about the room décor, the hotelʼs
location or the helpfulness of the staff. A four-star hotel may actually
be far less charming than a two-star hotel.
Weʼve visited many hotels that are stuck, for reasons outside their
control, with a low star rating. A two-star hotel located in a historic
neighborhood in Paris, for example, will probably have restrictions
placed upon its ability to do renovations. This might make adding an
elevator impossible, which would prevent the hotel from achieving
three-star status, no matter how lovely the rooms or how cordial the
management.
Also, note that one-star hotels will often offer things for free (like
Internet access) that four-star hotels tend to charge for.
Tip #24: Be clear when making your hotel
reservation.
What exactly are you looking for in a room? Do you prefer one on a
high floor overlooking the street? Do you like lower floors with
windows opening to the courtyard? Do you want a room with a
balcony? Do you need a bathtub instead of a shower?
Mention these preferences in your correspondence with the hotel
when reserving (but keep in mind that youʼre requesting them, not
demanding them). Your requests will almost always be considered.
Tip #25: Show up to your hotel early.
Although rooms are usually assigned in advance, thereʼs often a bit of
juggling that goes on during the check-in process. Maybe another
guest checked in and had an issue with the room. (For example,
perhaps two friends had been given a double instead of a twin room.
It happens all the time.) Check-in is never flawless, and problems
surface. People switch rooms. Get to the hotel as early as possible to
minimize your chances of falling into the last place of a chain
reaction.
Tip #26: Arriving early? Donʼt necessarily take the
only room available.
Your flight arrives early in the morning and you get to the hotel before
check in begins. Youʼre tired and want to rest up. The room you were
originally assigned hasnʼt yet been cleaned, but there is one room
available that you could move into now. Beware of that free room!
Ask if itʼs the same size and about any other preferences you may
have. It could very well be the dreaded “worst room in the hotel” (or it
could be perfectly fine). You might be better off leaving your luggage
and coming back later to a better room, even if you are a bit tired.
Tip #27: Come back early enough to inspect your
hotel room.
Say youʼve arrived early, checked in, left your luggage in a luggage
room, and hit the town. Now what? Weʼd recommend, if possible,
returning to the hotel early in the afternoon to move into your room.
(This isnʼt just about making sure your room is adequate. Itʼs also
about leaving your possessions in a luggage room thatʼs shared by
countless others.)
Tip #28: If the room isnʼt satisfactory—act quickly.
Upon entering the room, look around. Does it work? Be fair.
Remember that most European hotel rooms (and especially
bathrooms) are small. However, if the room doesnʼt work for you and
you get the impression that a better room may be available, act
quickly.
Very important: Do not open your luggage, flop onto the bed, or
(especially) use the bathroom. If, for some reason, you want to
change rooms, youʼll need to act quickly, without disrupting anything.
In many small hotels, after all, the cleaning staff leaves during the
afternoon. In the case of a “sold out” hotel, you will only be able to
swap rooms if you havenʼt touched anything.
Tip #29: If asking for another room, be nice and
offer a good explanation.
This is rather obvious, but if you return right away to the reception
and ask to switch rooms, be as courteous as possible. The
receptionist, after all, has all the power in this situation.
Explain why youʼd like to switch rooms. Had you requested
something else when reserving? Are you afraid of bathtubs and need
a shower? Do you prefer a quieter room on the courtyard? Offer
some sort of explanation—and smile.
Tip #30: Regardless of the outcome, thank the
receptionist.
Perhaps the receptionist will bump some things around and offer you
another room in the house. Or, perhaps heʼll sigh and apologize, and
youʼll be stuck with your room. Either way, youʼll be seeing that
person for the rest of your stay, so be nice and thank him for his
effort.
Tip #31: Stuck? Offer to switch the next day.
If youʼre stuck in your room and staying for multiple nights, ask if it
might be possible to switch rooms the next day. This often works,
although it requires that you re-pack your bags after your first night.
(Often the cleaning staff will move your luggage to the new room for
you. Thank them with a tip upon departure.)
Additional information:
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Five tips for finding cheap hotels during the summer.
http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/travel-planning-five-tips-forfinding-a-cheap-hotel-during-the-summer.html
What do hotel stars mean?
http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/hotel-star-ratings-in-europewhats-in-the-stars.html
Navigating school holidays when choosing travel dates.
http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/planning-tip-navigatingschool-holidays-when-picking-travel-dates.html
How NOT to get stuck with the worst room in the hotel.
http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/strategy-how-to-not-get-stuckwith-the-worst-room-in-the-hotel.html
Think the City of Light is going to leave your wallet, um, “light”? Think
again, Cheapos. Here are a handful of tips to help make your next
visit to Paris more affordable - without sacrificing any of the fun!
Tip #32: Get thee to the tourist office.
We always recommend heading straight to the tourist office as soon
as possible. Tourist offices are loaded with information on discounted
and cost-free events, free maps, coupons and guides to the city.
The Bureau d'Accueil Central, or Office de Tourisme et des Congres
de Paris, is located at 25 Rue des Pyramides in the 1st
Arrondissement. It is open daily from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. from
November 1 through April 30, and from 9 a.m. until 7 p.m. May 2
through October 31 (closed on May 1).
Tip #33: Invest in the “Paris Museum Pass.”
The "Paris Museum Pass," a discount museum card, offers
admission to more than 60 museums, churches and sights in Paris
and the surrounding region (including Versailles). The card pays for
itself if you're planning to pack your days full with museums and
tourist activities. A two-day pass is €39, a pass for four consecutive
days is €54, and a six-day pass costs €69. Another perk: You can
skip all those lines and head straight for the museum entrance.
Tip #34: Timing is everything.
The best time to take advantage of Paris' cheap deals is during the
"off-season," which is basically the period between November and
April. Lines to museums and shows are shorter, hotels are easier to
book (and much less expensive), and airfares are likely to be much,
much cheaper than during the peak season.
Tip #35: Know the pros and cons of visiting in
August.
Whereʼd everyone go? While the Louvre and Notre Dame are flooded
with tourists from around the world, one piece of Paris is curiously
lacking in August: the Parisians. Neighborhoods around town have
seemingly emptied out and the usually crowded parks and picnic
spots have a surplus of vacant space for those left behind. This also
makes shopping difficult as clothing boutiques, chocolate shops and
fromageries all shut their doors for several weeks.
Tip #36: Save at the cafés.
Cafés in Paris, like much of Europe, charge less for coffee (and other
drinks) ordered and consumed at the bar. Sure, you could drink that
same coffee sitting down, but be aware that it might cost you twice as
much, and even more out on the sidewalk terrace.
Tip #37: “Soldes” are your friends.
"Soldes," a sign you'll see in shop windows, means "Sale!" French
merchants are allowed to sell their wares at steep discounts twice a
year - in January and July. This is the perfect time to pick up the
authentic French fashions you've always wanted, without going
unfashionably broke.
Tip #38: Take in a free concert or a free movie.
Enjoy the free Sunday afternoon concerts in churches around Paris.
Pick up the “Pariscope” listings magazine at any newsstand for times
and addresses. During the summer, for example, head to the 19th
arrondissement to enjoy an open-air movie (“Cinema en Plein Air”)
every night of the week (except Monday). Youʼll get to hang out with
locals AND itʼs free!
Tip #39: Stay hydrated for less.
Buy your water at the supermarket, never from a sidewalk vendor or
the hotel, where youʼll pay several times the supermarket price. And
when your water bottle runs dry, fill it up with cool spring water at any
of the cityʼs 108 historic “Wallace Fountains.”
Tip #40: Get the most out of Versailles.
Visiting Versailles? Get the “Passport” in advance and save money
when visiting the palace, smaller buildings and gardens. Plus, you get
to jump the line, saving loads of time! And when you visit, pack a
picnic lunch and enjoy it outside the gates, along the canal.
Tip #41: Donʼt forget other nearby day trips.
When in Paris, youʼre surrounded by other wonderful day trip options,
including Giverny, Rouen, Chartres and Reims—all reachable by train
in under 1 hour 15 minutes, and all very affordable.
Tip #42: Keep an eye on that restaurant tab.
Donʼt get ripped off in touristy restaurants. Know what is “normal” to
pay for everyday items, from coffee (€1-2) to a glass of wine (€4).
Donʼt pay for “flat” water in restaurants, as all restaurants are legally
obliged to bring a carafe of water to your table. Bread, too, is always
free.
Tip #43: Remember the outdoor food markets!
Shop in Parisʼ outdoor markets for fresh produce, snacks and lunch.
Swing by before they close (usually in the afternoon) to find the real
deals. Ask at the hotel for your neighborhood marketʼs location and
times.
Tip #44: Supermarket wine is not taboo.
With aisles devoted to all sorts of regional French wines, Parisian
supermarkets like Monoprix and Franprix are acceptable places to
buy a bottle (or several) for dinner or a picnic. If you want to ask
questions or are looking for something specific, however, head to a
wine shop, or caviste. Nicolas or Le Repaire de Bacchus are two
such chains found all over the city.
Tip #45: Bike it!
Step off the Metro and hop on a bike for (nearly) free using Parisʼ
Vélibʼ bike-share program, now accessible to tourists with American
credit cards. Sign up first online using your credit card, and then
access bikes by using your ID number and PIN code. Youʼll spend
just a few euros to join (€1.70 for 1 day, €8 for 7 days), and then get
unlimited 30-minute bike rentals for free!
Tip #46: Forget about cars and taxis in Paris.
Taxis are a hassle: Theyʼre expensive and can be very hard to hail at
night. Youʼll have to wait at a taxi stand, along with everyone else. Be
prepared to walk—or choose a central hotel. And never take a taxi
from the airport (unless youʼve got an expense account).
Lastly, renting a car in Paris is expensive. Youʼll have to keep it
parked, and garages are not cheap. Rent a car only for leaving town,
and pick it up on your way out of town, after checking out of your
hotel.
Additional information:
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EuroCheapoʼs recommended hotels in Paris:
http://www.eurocheapo.com/paris/
Getting around Paris - Metro, buses, airport transportation:
http://www.eurocheapo.com/paris/features/getting-aroundparis.html
Budget tips for Paris:
http://www.eurocheapo.com/paris/features/budget-tipsparis.html
20 things to consider when choosing a hotel in Paris:
http://www.eurocheapo.com/paris/features/considerationswhen-choosing-hotel-in-paris.html
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55 ways to save on your trip to Paris:
http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/paris-55-ways-to-save-onyour-trip-to-paris-in-2012.html
10 ways to save time and see more in Paris:
http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/paris-10-ways-to-save-timeand-see-more-in-paris.html
7 ways to avoid crowds in Paris:
http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/paris-7-ways-to-avoid-crowdsat-sights-stores-and-more.html
7 things that are always free in Paris:
http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/paris-7-things-that-arealways-free-in-paris.html
All Paris articles: http://www.eurocheapo.com/paris/features/
If you're nervous that your Roman Holiday will leave your budget in
ruins, take a deep breath and read on. Rome is an expensive city, but
remember that many of the sights you'll want to see are free. For
everything else, we have a few Cheapo suggestions for surviving the
Eternal City.
Tip #47: Get thee to the tourist office (yep, again)
Rome's main tourist office is located off Piazza della Repubblica at
Via Parigi 5, behind the Baths of Diocletian. It is open Monday
through Saturday from 9:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m.
Tip #48: Donʼt worry about getting a museum
pass.
Museum passes (special tickets allowing for discounted or free
admission to many museums) are not as well organized in Rome as
they are in other cities. Be sure to check in with a tourist office to see
if there are any new deals, and study which museums are included
before making a purchase.
Tip #49: Consider picking up an Archeologia
Card.
The Archeologia Card is a great deal for history-crazed visitors to
Rome. It provides admission to the Colosseum, Palatinum and
Palatinum Museum, National Roman Museum, Terme Di Caracalla,
Cecilia Metella and Villa dei Quintili. It costs €27.50 for adults. For
EU citizens between 18 and 25 years of age, the Archeologia Card
costs just €17.50 (however, there may be a surcharge of €2 during
exhibitions).
Tip #50: When shopping at a Roman grocery
store, abide by the rules.
Heading to the grocery store? Put on the protective gloves before you
touch fruits or produce. Weigh and label the fruit and vegetables you
plan to buy. Bag your own groceries. Bags arenʼt free and will cost
you 4 - 10 cents per bag.
Tip #51: Canʼt take the Roman heat? Take a dip in
a city pool!
Take a plunge in one of our favorites: RivaNord (Transport: Tram 2
from Piazzale Flaminio to Pinturicchio). La Piscina delle Rose
(Transport: Metro A to Termini, transfer to Metro B to EUR Palasport).
Blue Wave Team – Sporting Club Ostiense (Transport: Metro B to
Marconi).
Tip #52: Best of the free - Attend a Papal Mass.
On Sundays at noon, the Pope gives a prayer (the “Angelus”) and
blesses the crowd of pilgrims in St. Peterʼs Square. Tickets are not
required to attend this event, so if you want a good spot, be sure to
arrive early.
Tip #53: Best of the free - Churches
Some of Romeʼs finest artwork and architectural designs arenʼt found
in museums. Many of the creative masterpieces of Michelangelo,
Bernini, Borromini and many others, are actually found in Romeʼs
churches. Some real gems include the Santa Maria Sopra Minerva,
SantʼIgnazio, Santa Maria del Popolo and, of course, St. Peterʼs
Basilica.
Tip #54: Best of the free - Fountains
There are an endless supply of fountains in Rome, and seeing them
will cost you nothing (excepting the pennies you toss into them!).
Some favorites are the Fontana di Trevi, the Fontana di Quattro Fiumi
(Piazza Navona), Fontana delle Tartarughe (Piazza Mattei), Fontana
del Tritone (Piazza Barberini) and Fontana delle Api (Via Veneto).
A special note about the Trevi Fountain: No one comes to Rome
without making a stop at the grandiose Fontana di Trevi. Whether it
be day or night, itʼs hard not to admire the sheer beauty of the
fountain that Federico Fellini chose as his backdrop for his classic,
“La Dolce Vita.” Tourists flock in herds to the fountain to throw in a
coin. Legend has it that it ensures that youʼll come back to Rome one
day soon.
Tip #55: Best of the free - Piazzas
Weʼre talking “piazzas,” as in “squares,” not to be confused with that
popular street food consisting of melted mozzarella cheese and
tomato sauce. A favorite Italian pastime is to meet up with your
friends in the piazza and shoot the breeze. Some of the most popular
piazzas with both tourists and locals alike also happen to be very
picturesque. These should be at the top of your must-see list: Piazza
di Spagna, Santa Maria in Trastevere, Piazza Venezia, Piazza del
Popolo and Piazza della Repubblica.
Tip #56: Best of the free - Ruins
Wander up the Via dei Fori Imperiali and see Trajanʼs Market (Mercati
di Traiano), Arch of Constantine (Arco di Costantino), Roman Forum
(Foro Romano) and the Palatine Hill (Palatino). This is the heart of
what is left of Ancient Rome. You have to pay to get inside the
Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, but taking a snap from outside wonʼt
cost a thing. You canʼt miss ʻem.
Tip #57: Best of the free - Villa Borghese
Dubbed the “Central Park of Rome,” the Villa Borghese is one of the
few green spaces in the Eternal City where you can truly relax, take a
stroll and plan a picnic away from the cityʼs hustle and bustle. Hike up
to the spot called the “Pincio” for a birdʼs eye view of Piazza del
Popolo and the Roman skyline. Paradiso!
Tip #58: Best of the free - St. Peterʼs Basilica
Thereʼs no structure quite as remarkable as St. Peterʼs Basilica. The
road and square leading up to the church is just as magnificent.
Although thereʼs no cost to get inside, there is a dress code that is
strictly enforced. No shorts and skirts above the knees and no bare
shoulders.
Make sure to check out the Vatican Grottoes underneath the church,
where several Popes (including Pope John Paul II and St. Peter) are
buried. And donʼt forget to snap a picture with one of the Swiss
Guards standing outside!
The attached Vatican Museum houses the Vaticanʼs impressive art
collection. This includes no shortage of masterpieces, most notably
Michelangeloʼs painted ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. At €15 per adult
ticket, the museum is not cheap, but itʼs certainly worth it.
Additional information:
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EuroCheapoʼs recommended hotels in Rome:
http://www.eurocheapo.com/rome/
Getting around Rome - Metro, buses, taxis:
http://www.eurocheapo.com/rome/features/getting-around-rome.html
Budget tips for Rome: http://www.eurocheapo.com/rome/features/budgettips-rome.html
Types of hotels in Rome:
http://www.eurocheapo.com/rome/features/types-of-hotels-rome.html
10 things to do for less than 10 euros in Rome:
http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/rome-10-things-to-do-for-less-than10.html
5 rules for shopping in a Roman grocery store:
http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/rome-5-things-to-know-before-shoppingin-a-roman-supermarket.html
25 free things to do in Rome: http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/rome-25free-things-to-do.html
Planning a trip to Amsterdam? Here are some suggestions for
maximizing your budget, including information on museums, free
sights and getting around this curvy city of canals.
Tip #59: Get thee to the tourist office (yep, again)
The VVV, the official Dutch tourism board, has three offices in town
and one at the airport.
All VVV tourist offices offer brochures, maps, and tickets to events.
The main office in Amsterdam is outside the front doors of Centraal
Station. It is open from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m. daily.
Tip #60: Consider buying the Museumjaarkaart.
The Museumjaarkaart is a good investment for anyone interested in
taking advantage of what locals term "Museum Land." The card
covers admission to more than 400 museums throughout the
Netherlands, including biggies like the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh
Museum, and Anne Frank Huis. The museum card is valid for one
year and costs €39.95 for adults and €19.95 for those under 25.
Tip #61: Pay in cash.
Forget paying with a credit card in grocery stores, as they only accept
cash or Dutch debit cards. And many authentic Amsterdam cafés
(and coffeeshops) only take cash. Save time by always having cash
on hand, and use your credit cards for the shops and ATMs.
Tip #62: Buy day tickets on public transportation.
Yes, you can buy your ticket on the trams and buses, but save time
(and annoying people behind you) and buy a day ticket if youʼre
taking public transport. This way, you can simply “punch” your ticket
when getting on and off the tram or bus like everyone else. (Look for
the round pads on the side of the doors that say “OV”.)
Tip #63: Go to Anne Frank House... late.
During high tourist season the Anne Frank House Museum is open
until 9 p.m. (10 p.m. on Saturdays); and during the off season until 7
p.m. (9 p.m. on Saturday). In fact, during July and August the
museum doesnʼt close until 10 p.m. daily. So save time and avoid
that long line by coming later, about an hour before close.
Tip #64: Make dinner reservations.
Since Amsterdamʼs old city center is well preserved, it also means
cafes and restaurants have a small capacity for patrons. Save time
searching for an open table by simply reserving a place at a café or
restaurant. Call ahead (or stop by) during the afternoon and you
should be fine.
Tip #65: Bike around.
Waiting around for trams and buses gets old fast – and Amsterdamʼs
public transportation doesnʼt pass by as frequently as in other
European capitals, especially on weekends. Save time (and money)
by renting a bike during your stay. Itʼs fun and healthy, and once you
learn the rules of the bike paths, itʼs a breeze!
Tip #66: Party outside the center.
On weekends the city center is packed with people, mostly foreigners
and Dutch people coming to the Dam for a big weekend. Save time
and stay away from the bars and clubs at the big party squares –
youʼll spend ages waiting for a drink or club entry. Instead, hit the
surrounding ʻhoods like De Pijp, Jordaan, Oost or Westerpark. These
areas are more fun, authentic and popular with locals.
Tip #67: Book train tickets in advance and use
kiosks.
It might sound obvious, but itʼs worth repeating: Book train tickets
from Amsterdam in advance online. Whether you have a print-out on
hand or you have to use a kiosk computer at the station, both
methods are so much faster than waiting in line to buy tickets at the
station. (Of course, checking in for flights in advance and using selfservice check in at the airport will also save you loads of time.)
Tip #68: Get Dutch-y.
Although everyone in Amsterdam speaks English and things are
rather international, donʼt spend time searching for your favorite
Starbucks or smoothie chain. Suppress your cravings for tacos and
hot dogs – you wonʼt find the real deal here, and youʼll waste valuable
time. Instead, get Dutch. Head for the fries stands, falafel shops and
fresh orange juice. Want to taste something exotic? Try Indonesian or
Surinamese cuisine, the Mexican and Chinese food of the
Netherlands.
Tip #69: Donʼt bother getting to the airport too
early.
Be early for your flight, but donʼt overdo it: It takes about 20 minutes
to get from Amsterdam Centraal Station to Schiphol Airport. If youʼre
flying on a low-cost carrier to another EU destination, gate
assignments donʼt even appear on the departure screens until 40
minutes before takeoff, so if you only have a carry on, donʼt overdo it.
Two hours is just too long for an easyJet flight; 60 to 90 minutes is
fine.
Tip #70: Best of the free - Ferry rides.
All ferries behind Centraal Station are free; pick one and see where it
takes you (the average travel time is just five to 15 minutes).
Tip #71: Best of the free - See street art.
A walk down Spuistraat will make you feel like youʼve entered a gritty
and colorful street art exhibition. Art pieces can scale entire building
faces, and much of the street is lined with different works side-byside.
Tip #72: Best of the free - Cross the Jordaan.
Walking the streets of the Jordaan district is a must for every visitor in
Amsterdam. It was once an area for blue-collar workers during the
1600s, but now the quaint and cute streets and alleys have been
gentrified and host a number of small art galleries.
Tip #73: Best of the free - Nieuwmarkt is neat-o.
The giant weigh station in the center of Nieuwmarktʼs square, De
Waag, is often mistaken for a castle. However, this was the main
entrance to old Amsterdam before the Golden Ages, and it continued
to attract locals interested in its main 17th-century attraction: public
beheadings.
Tip #74: Best of the free - Free internet (and great
views) at the library.
The public library (OBA) is right next to Centraal Station. Itʼs new and
boasts a sleek modern look, with seven floors and the latest
computers with free internet, free wireless, and even a free piano for
tickling the ivory. And if youʼre at the library, youʼll also have to “check
out” one of the best views of the Dam. Head to the top floor where
café La Place is located, and outside youʼll find a roof terrace
overlooking the entire city.
Additional information:
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EuroCheapoʼs recommended hotels in Amsterdam:
http://www.eurocheapo.com/amsterdam/
Getting around Amsterdam - trams, buses, bikes:
http://www.eurocheapo.com/amsterdam/features/gettingaround-amsterdam.html
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Budget tips for Amsterdam:
http://www.eurocheapo.com/amsterdam/features/budget-tipsamsterdam.html
Types of hotels in Amsterdam:
http://www.eurocheapo.com/amsterdam/features/aboutamsterdam-budget-hotels.html
10 ways to save time when visiting Amsterdam:
http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/amsterdam-10-ways-to-savetime-when-visiting-amsterdam.html
20 free things to do in Amsterdam:
http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/20-free-things-to-do-inamsterdam.html
Favorite late-night snacks:
http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/amsterdam-5-late-nightsnacks-for-cheapos-on-the-prowl.html
Amsterdamʼs museum pass options:
http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/amsterdams-museum-passoptions-which-is-a-better-deal.html
When to visit Amsterdam (and which dates to avoid):
http://www.eurocheapo.com/amsterdam/features/when-to-visitamsterdam.html
Although undeniably pricey, London is full of budget-friendly bits.
We've staked out some of the best deals, including a few choice
freebies. Take note of these tips and you, too, can be a Cheapo in
Her Majestyʼs city.
Tip #75: Get thee to the tourist office (yep, again).
London boasts more than its share of tourist offices; perhaps the
easiest and most central is the Piccadilly Circus Information Centre,
located in the Piccadilly Circus Underground station. Itʼs open daily
from 9:15 a.m. until 7 p.m. and offers information on seasonal deals,
events and free activities.
Tip #76: No need to fret about a museum pass.
Most national museums in London are completely free, a fact that
makes visiting this most expensive of cities just a bit less daunting for
Cheapos. Cultural freebies include the Tate, Tate Modern, National
Gallery, British Library, London Cartoon Gallery, RIBA Architecture
Gallery, British Museum, Imperial War Museum,Victoria and Albert
Museum, Museum of Childhood and Science Museum.
Tip #77: Donʼt rely on your walking shoes.
If youʼre planning to really explore all that London has to offer, donʼt
make the common mistake of assuming that the city is easily
traversed on foot alone. Itʼs not and never will be. With the exception
of a few Tube stops clustered between Piccadilly Circus and Holborn,
it would take a very long time to walk between most stations. Which
brings us to...
Tip #78: Make sure you have an Oyster card.
The Oyster Card is a small plastic card that you “top off” with your
credit card and swipe to get around town, just like the locals. Itʼs the
cheapest way to pay for single trips on the London Underground (The
Tube), bus, tram, Docklands Light Railway (DLR), National Rail
Service and London Overground. You can get your Oyster card at
Tube stops and Travel Information Centres by paying a £5 deposit.
Tip #79: Ditch the tourist bus and take the RV1.
When youʼre out and about in London, you may be tempted to give
one of those open-top sightseeing buses a go. Well, theyʼll set you
back a whopping £23. So hereʼs an idea for Cheapos: One of central
Londonʼs public transport bus routes, the RV1, takes in an incredible
number of sights and is a whole lot cheaper. Pay with your Oyster
card (max £1.35) and bag a seat next to the window. This is a great
option in the winter, as shivering in the rain on an open top bus is
certainly not our idea of fun!
Tip #80: Cruise down the Thames with your
Oyster.
Another perk to using your Oyster card is that it includes discounts on
Thames riverboat routes, meaning that you can opt for public
transport and forgo the overpriced tourist boats along the Thames.
Oyster Travelcards will get you 1/3 off any of the public boat services
on the Thames, while Oyster “pay as you go” will get you a 10%
discount on KPMG Thames Clippers riverboats.
Tip #81: Take an easy day trip to Cambridge.
Once youʼve pounded the streets of London visiting museums and
emptying your wallet at the shops, youʼll likely be in need of some
fresh air. Cambridge makes for an ideal getaway from the hectic buzz
of London, and best of all, itʼs easily doable in a day. Fast trains leave
from London Kings Cross to Cambridge twice an hour, and the
journey takes just 45 minutes. You can also catch the (somewhat
slower) train from Liverpool Street Station, which takes 1 hour 10
minutes.
Tip #82: Best of the free - Sample your way
through Borough Market.
Situated in an immense open-air space under a Victorian-style
warehouse roof, Borough Market is Londonʼs oldest food market.
Serving up fine artisan cured meats, French cheeses, fresh oysters,
cider, organic fruit and vegetables, homemade cakes, mushroom
pate and everything in between, the market is one of the best of its
kind. Ask for free samples!
Tip #83: Best of the free - Spend an afternoon on
Hampstead Heath.
Escape to more than 800 acres of parkland to the north of the city.
The heath offers bags of space to run around, hills to roll down, plus
pools, ponds and signposted walks. Thereʼs a wealth of familyfriendly pubs around the edges; better still, pack a picnic and have
lunch perched on a hill overlooking the city.
Tip #84: Best of the free - Childʼs play at the
Natural History Museum.
Keep little ones and teenagers intrigued on a shoestring budget with
a day trip to the Natural History Museum. The impressive cathedrallike structure plays host to one of the largest natural history
collections in the world. It includes everything from microscopic slides
to mammoth skeletons, a dinosaur gallery, and a life-size model of a
blue whale.
Tip #85: Best of the free - Cultural pursuits at the
British Library.
If you love reading, especially in the confines of a tranquil space, a
trip to the worldʼs largest library is a worthwhile (and free) way to
spend an afternoon. The British Library holds more than 150 million
items, from The Beatles manuscripts and the notebooks of Leonardo
da Vinci to works by Karl Marx, Virginia Woolf, Charles Dickens and
George Bernard Shaw. Grab a coffee and one of your favorite reads,
and camp out in one of the many comfortable reading rooms.
Tip #86: Best of the free - An urban walk along the
Southbank.
Entertain yourself without opening your wallet by taking a blissful walk
along the Southbank of the River Thames. There are always free
events (live music, dance, theatre, book readings, workshops and
more) going on day and night, and even when there is a dry spot,
there are plenty of other attractions in the area.
Tip #87: Best of the free - Take in the view from
Waterloo Bridge.
Of Londonʼs 33 bridges that cross the River Thames, Waterloo
definitely offers the most impressive views. Looking east you can take
in St. Paulʼs Cathedral, the Gherkin, the Oxo Tower, Somerset House
and the National Theatre. Look westward and you can take in the
bustle of busy shoppers and street performers along the South Bank,
as well as the London Eye, Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament.
Visit during the day to take photos and in the evening to admire it all
lit up.
Additional information:
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EuroCheapoʼs recommended hotels in London:
http://www.eurocheapo.com/london/
Getting around London - Tube, buses, Oysters:
http://www.eurocheapo.com/london/features/getting-aroundlondon.html
Budget tips for London:
http://www.eurocheapo.com/london/features/budget-tipslondon.html
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Types of hotels in London:
http://www.eurocheapo.com/london/features/about-londonhotels.html
Best views in London for free:
http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/london-the-best-views-in-thecity-for-free.html
Day trip from London, Cambridge:
http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/cambridge-an-easy-andaffordable-day-trip-from-london.html
20 free museums in London:
http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/london-budget-survival-guide20-free-museums.html
Why is it that the most charming cities are always so expensive? If
the thought of having to sell your car to finance a trip to Venice wakes
you out of your romantic reverie, donʼt despair. Follow our lead for
ways to enjoy the floating city without drifting away in debt.
Tip #88: Get thee to the tourist office (yep, again).
One convenient APT tourist office is located at Piazza San Marco,
directly opposite the Basilica; doors are open daily from 9:30 a.m.
until 3:30 p.m. Check on free and cheap events, including church
concerts and guided walking tours.
Tip #89: Bring your most comfortable walking
shoes.
Venice is a car-free city where walking is a real treat. And while itʼs a
relatively compact place, youʼll be hoofing it all day over cobblestones
and up and down bridges. Try to minimize the physical challenges by
wearing your best walking shoes.
Tip #90: Get lost.
In this city of astonishingly angled alleyways, more than 100 canals,
and innumerable bridges, allow yourself to fold up the map and just
wander. Youʼll find your way home eventually.
Tip #91: Donʼt sit down for a snack in St. Markʼs
Square.
Venice is notorious for its mediocre and overpriced food. You can find
good food in Venice, but itʼs often still going to be on the expensive
side -- and not in the most popular squares. Nowhere is getting a bite
to eat more unnecessarily costly than in the bars and restaurants
surrounding St. Markʼs Square. Beware.
Tip #92: Try cicchetti.
A second cousin to Spanish tapas, “cicchetti” are smallish morsels of
food, some served hot and some served cold. They are consumed
sitting down, at a bar or on the go. Cicchetti generally start at €1 and
rise in price according to ingredients and quality. The options are
seemingly endless: tiny salami sandwiches, fancy smoked fish
spreads served with fresh bread or crostini toasts, deep-fried
mozzarella... anyone hungry?
Tip #93: Grab a group for that gondola ride.
If youʼve got your heart set on a gondola ride but are (rightfully)
scared off by the cost, try going with a group. Gondola rides are
priced by the ride itself, not by the number of passengers in the
gondola, so if youʼve got a group willing to split the cost, itʼs
immediately much more budget-friendly.
Tip #94: Take a vaporetto ride to San Giorgio
Island.
An important Benedictine monastery was built on the small island of
San Giorgio by Andrea Palladio. It is designed around the church and
two cloisters. Since 1951, it has been run by the Giorgio Cini
Foundation. Take the short vaporetto ride to the island and enjoy the
view.
Tip #95: Best of the free - Explore the Lista Di
Spagna and the Strada Nuova.
Every single guidebook in the world tells you to avoid the crowded
Lista di Spagna and the Strada Nuova. But we donʼt mind it. If you
like window shopping, walking slowly, and seeing lots of people, you
must give it a stroll.
Tip #96: Best of the free - La Passeggiata Alle
Zattere (Walk in Zattere).
The Fondamenta delle Zattere is a long promenade in Dorsoduro,
overlooking the Canal of the Giudecca and extending for about one
kilometer from Stazione Marittima a San Basilio up to Punta della
Dogana, where the Canal enters the Bacino di San Marco. Strolling
the Fondamenta is a favorite pastime of locals, especially on Sunday
afternoons.
Tip #97: Best of the free - Lido Beach.
Take a daytrip to Lido, Veniceʼs beachy island. This is traditionally the
place where Venetians go during the hot and stuffy summer months
to cool off in the Adriatic Sea. Take line 61/62 to get directly from
Piazzale Roma to the Lido.
Tip #98: Best of the free - Visit the cityʼs private
art galleries.
There are many museums in Venice, but there are also myriad
privately owned art galleries. These are free to enter and display a
wide variety of work from both local and international artists. Some
galleries to consider include: the Contini Art Gallery (S. Marco
n°2675/2769, Calle dello Spezier), the Galleria dʼArte lʼOcchio
(Dorsoduro 181-185 near the Peggy Guggenheim Collection) and the
Galleria Ravagnan (Piazza San marco, 50A)
Tip #99: Go church-hopping.
St. Markʼs Basilica is gorgeous, free to enter, and rightfully the most
famous religious building in Venice. However, glance around the city
skyline and youʼll see plenty of other buildings topped with crosses.
Some of those churches charge a small entry fee, but many are
completely free to enter–and free is a very good price.
Tip #100: Best of the free - Tour the Squero San
Trovaso and find out how gondolas are built.
This squero (“boatyard”), located along the Rio San Trovaso and
dating back to the 17th Century, is one of the few still operating in
Venice. Take a tour and see gondolas being built and repaired. The
tour usually lasts 30 minutes and is free.
Additional information:
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EuroCheapoʼs recommended hotels in Venice:
http://www.eurocheapo.com/venice/
Getting around Venice - Boats, water taxis, gondolas:
http://www.eurocheapo.com/venice/features/getting-aroundvenice.html
Budget tips for Venice:
http://www.eurocheapo.com/venice/features/budget-tipsvenice.html
5 simple ways to save in Venice:
http://www.eurocheapo.com/venice/features/budget-tipsvenice.html
10 things to do for under 10 euros:
http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/venice-10-things-to-do-forless-than-10.html
Lesser-known museums worth visiting in Venice:
http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/venice-lesser-knownmuseums-worth-visiting.html
Save on vaporetto tickets with a Tourist Travel Card:
http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/venice-save-on-vaporettotickets-with-a-tourist-travel-card.html
Cicchetti - Cheap Venetian Delights:
http://www.eurocheapo.com/venice/features/cheap-eatsvenice.html
We hope these 100 tips have given you plenty of ideas for easy ways
to save while youʼre on the road. And while this list represents only
the tip of the Cheapo-iceberg, there is one last tip thatʼs a cut above
the rest and deserves its own special mention:
Tip #101: Enjoy yourself.
Whether youʼre revisiting a favorite cafe in Paris, strolling across a
historic bridge in Prague or taking your first trip to Berlin, youʼre
traveling. What could be better? We hope you have a fun, safe and
happy journey--wherever youʼre headed to next.
For many more tips in these (and dozens more) cities in Europe,
please join us on http://www.eurocheapo.com.