How to Save Money in Europe
To be honest, traveling to Europe isn't exactly cheap, but there are ways to save money while you're there! The key is to prioritize and pay attention to the fees, as even small savings can add up over time. I compiled this list for my children when they expressed interest in a Euro trip with their friends, and I'm happy to share it with you now.
Here are some of my favorite tips for saving money while traveling in Europe:
Travel during off-season: Choosing the right travel time is crucial, especially if you want to save money. Flight prices to Europe tend to skyrocket during the summer months, but you can find cheaper flights in December, January, and February, as these winter months are less appealing to tourists.
Book in advance: This is one of my top tips for anyone looking to travel. Buying your tickets well in advance can save you a significant amount of money.
Choose where you start carefully: Although you may not have control over the expensive airfares, you can decide where to begin your European journey. Some of my preferred options include Madrid, Spain; Paris, France; Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Lisbon, Portugal; and Rome, Italy. These cities often offer reasonably priced flights to other European destinations for less than $100.
Eat like a local: Instead of dining at expensive restaurants, try the local markets, cafes, and street vendors that offer delicious food at a fraction of the cost. Many parks in Europe allow visitors to bring their own wine or beer, so why not enjoy a picnic outdoors?
Avoid touristy restaurants: Stay away from restaurants near major tourist attractions, as they tend to be overpriced. Look for restaurants that are popular with the locals instead.
Make lunch your main meal: Having your biggest meal at lunchtime allows you to save money and take a break in the middle of the day. Many places offer great lunch deals too!
Walk everywhere: Most European cities are very walkable, so bring a comfortable pair of shoes and explore on foot. Walking allows you to discover unique parts of the city that you might miss otherwise.
Head east: The further east you go in Europe, the lower the prices tend to be. Countries like the Czech Republic, Poland, and Slovenia have rich histories and friendly people, making them great destinations that won't break the bank.
Choose free or cheap attractions: Europe has many attractions that cost money, but there are also plenty of free or budget-friendly options. Look up "Free Things To Do In" before you go, and you might be surprised at what you find. Locals often lead these tours, and you can learn just as much about a city's history and culture as you would in a museum.
Get cash from ATM’s at a Bank: Its the best option for a combinator of a fair exchange rate and low surcharge fees. It’s best to avoid stand-alone, off-brand ATMs of the kind you often seen at convenice stores as they tend to have the highest transaction fees.
