Você está na página 1de 49

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, weve 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 Europes 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, heres 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 youll 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. Thats 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, its slightly less. Weve 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. Its 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 theyll 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 cards 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. Youll 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 McDonalds.


Many McDonalds (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 McDonalds visits each week, youll save a bundle on international phone charges. Additional information:

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

Havent bought your tickets yet? No problem. We have plenty of suggestions for snagging great deals on flights, knowing when it is (and isnt) 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.


Havent 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.


Its 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 dont 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 wont include the price of gas or the tolls that youll 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 weve 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:

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 youre 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 its located far outside the center, and isnt 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 youre 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 youve 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 youre 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 isnt included in your room rate, wed recommend skipping it altogether and starting your day at the cute caf down the street. Itll 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: Dont 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 theres 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 doesnt say anything about the room dcor, the hotels location or the helpfulness of the staff. A four-star hotel may actually be far less charming than a two-star hotel. Weve 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 youre 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, theres 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? Dont necessarily take the only room available.
Your flight arrives early in the morning and you get to the hotel before check in begins. Youre tired and want to rest up. The room you were

originally assigned hasnt yet been cleaned, but there is one room available that you could move into now. Beware of that free room! Ask if its 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 youve arrived early, checked in, left your luggage in a luggage room, and hit the town. Now what? Wed recommend, if possible, returning to the hotel early in the afternoon to move into your room. (This isnt just about making sure your room is adequate. Its also about leaving your possessions in a luggage room thats shared by countless others.)

Tip #28: If the room isnt satisfactoryact 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 doesnt 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, youll 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 havent 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 youd 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 explanationand 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 hell sigh and apologize, and youll be stuck with your room. Either way, youll 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 youre 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:

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.

Whered 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 cafs.


Cafs 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). Youll get to hang out with locals AND its free!

Tip #39: Stay hydrated for less.


Buy your water at the supermarket, never from a sidewalk vendor or the hotel, where youll pay several times the supermarket price. And when your water bottle runs dry, fill it up with cool spring water at any

of the citys 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: Dont forget other nearby day trips.


When in Paris, youre surrounded by other wonderful day trip options, including Giverny, Rouen, Chartres and Reimsall reachable by train in under 1 hour 15 minutes, and all very affordable.

Tip #42: Keep an eye on that restaurant tab.


Dont 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). Dont 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 Paris 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 markets 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 Paris Vlib 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. Youll 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: Theyre expensive and can be very hard to hail at night. Youll have to wait at a taxi stand, along with everyone else. Be prepared to walkor choose a central hotel. And never take a taxi from the airport (unless youve got an expense account). Lastly, renting a car in Paris is expensive. Youll 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:

EuroCheapos 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

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: Dont 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 arent free and will cost you 4 - 10 cents per bag.

Tip #51: Cant 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. Peters 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 Romes finest artwork and architectural designs arent found in museums. Many of the creative masterpieces of Michelangelo, Bernini, Borromini and many others, are actually found in Romes churches. Some real gems include the Santa Maria Sopra Minerva, SantIgnazio, Santa Maria del Popolo and, of course, St. Peters 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, its 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 youll come back to Rome one day soon.

Tip #55: Best of the free - Piazzas


Were 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 Trajans 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 wont cost a thing. You cant miss em.

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 citys hustle and bustle. Hike up to the spot called the Pincio for a birds eye view of Piazza del Popolo and the Roman skyline. Paradiso!

Tip #58: Best of the free - St. Peters Basilica

Theres no structure quite as remarkable as St. Peters Basilica. The road and square leading up to the church is just as magnificent. Although theres 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 dont forget to snap a picture with one of the Swiss Guards standing outside! The attached Vatican Museum houses the Vaticans impressive art collection. This includes no shortage of masterpieces, most notably Michelangelos painted ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. At 15 per adult ticket, the museum is not cheap, but its certainly worth it. Additional information:

EuroCheapos 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 cafs (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 youre 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 doesnt 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 Amsterdams 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 caf 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 Amsterdams public transportation doesnt pass by as frequently as in other European capitals, especially on weekends. Save time (and money) by renting a bike during your stay. Its fun and healthy, and once you learn the rules of the bike paths, its 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 youll spend ages waiting for a drink or club entry. Instead, hit the surrounding hoods 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 its 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, dont spend time searching for your favorite Starbucks or smoothie chain. Suppress your cravings for tacos and hot dogs you wont find the real deal here, and youll 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: Dont bother getting to the airport too early.


Be early for your flight, but dont overdo it: It takes about 20 minutes to get from Amsterdam Centraal Station to Schiphol Airport. If youre flying on a low-cost carrier to another EU destination, gate assignments dont even appear on the departure screens until 40 minutes before takeoff, so if you only have a carry on, dont 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 youve 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 Nieuwmarkts 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. Its 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 youre at the library, youll also have to check out one of the best views of the Dam. Head to the top floor where caf La Place is located, and outside youll find a roof terrace overlooking the entire city.

Additional information:

EuroCheapos recommended hotels in Amsterdam: http://www.eurocheapo.com/amsterdam/ Getting around Amsterdam - trams, buses, bikes: http://www.eurocheapo.com/amsterdam/features/gettingaround-amsterdam.html

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 Amsterdams 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 Majestys 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. Its 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: Dont rely on your walking shoes.


If youre planning to really explore all that London has to offer, dont make the common mistake of assuming that the city is easily traversed on foot alone. Its 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. Its 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 youre out and about in London, you may be tempted to give one of those open-top sightseeing buses a go. Well, theyll set you back a whopping 23. So heres an idea for Cheapos: One of central Londons 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 youve pounded the streets of London visiting museums and emptying your wallet at the shops, youll likely be in need of some fresh air. Cambridge makes for an ideal getaway from the hectic buzz of London, and best of all, its 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 Londons 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. Theres 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 - Childs 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 worlds 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 Londons 33 bridges that cross the River Thames, Waterloo definitely offers the most impressive views. Looking east you can take in St. Pauls 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:

EuroCheapos 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

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, dont 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 its a relatively compact place, youll 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. Youll find your way home eventually.

Tip #91: Dont sit down for a snack in St. Marks Square.
Venice is notorious for its mediocre and overpriced food. You can find good food in Venice, but its 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. Marks 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 youve 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 youve got a group willing to split the cost, its 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 dont 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, Venices 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 citys 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 n2675/2769, Calle dello Spezier), the Galleria dArte lOcchio (Dorsoduro 181-185 near the Peggy Guggenheim Collection) and the Galleria Ravagnan (Piazza San marco, 50A)

Tip #99: Go church-hopping.


St. Marks Basilica is gorgeous, free to enter, and rightfully the most famous religious building in Venice. However, glance around the city skyline and youll see plenty of other buildings topped with crosses. Some of those churches charge a small entry fee, but many are completely free to enterand 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:

EuroCheapos 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 youre on the road. And while this list represents only the tip of the Cheapo-iceberg, there is one last tip thats a cut above the rest and deserves its own special mention:

Tip #101: Enjoy yourself.


Whether youre revisiting a favorite cafe in Paris, strolling across a historic bridge in Prague or taking your first trip to Berlin, youre traveling. What could be better? We hope you have a fun, safe and happy journey--wherever youre headed to next. For many more tips in these (and dozens more) cities in Europe, please join us on http://www.eurocheapo.com.

Você também pode gostar