Find ways to save money on your next epic vacation around Europe? Whether your idea of a dream trip is skiing the slopes, discovering a new city or soaking up the sun on the beach, here are five diverse vacations you can enjoy. in Europe without spending too much money.
City Break: Istanbul
Although continental Europe has many different budget city breaks, one of the best is Istanbul. City, average, about 40% cheaper than Barcelonawhich means things like hotels and meals are very affordable for travelers.
With major attractions like the Hagia Sophia, the iconic Blue Mosque (free admission!) and Topkapi Palace, Istanbul is perfect for history fans. But tourists just looking for an adventure in the city will enjoy wandering the streets of Istanbul, feasting on delicious Turkish food, shopping at the Grand Bazaar, and sailing along the Bosporus.
Besides the relatively low cash rates for hotels (some as low as $60 a night according to Hotels.com), you can also find budget point deals. Have some Marriott Bonvoy properties in the city cost between 8,000 and 20,000 Bonvoy points per night.
Ski trip: Livigno, Italy
For Swiss-style dough at Italian prices, consider Livigno for your next visit skiing holiday. This area, just across the Swiss border from St. Moritz, offers low-cost Swiss-style slopes. Ski day passes cost around $32, while day passes in St. Nearby Moritz can be almost twice that price, or even more on peak days.
Quick search on Airbnb shows cozy apartments with mountain views starting at just $85 a night. In contrast, fancy mountain resorts that range from $500 to $900 a night in ski destinations like Switzerland or Austria start at $244 a night.
Livigno has another perk: Tax free for skiers who also enjoy browsing the shops. This means you can shop to your heart’s content without paying any value added tax.
Related: 6 Mistakes to Avoid When Taking Your First Ski Trip to Europe
Beach vacation: Fuerteventura, Spain
One of Europe’s most affordable beach destinations, Fuerteventura In the Canary Islands, there are unspoiled and pristine stretches of sand. The best part? Besides being ideal for budget travelers thanks to its dining options and cheap accommodation, the island has year-round sunshine and warm temperatures, meaning you can have a great summer break. or an iconic summer break — really, a beach getaway any time of year.
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Once there, it’s easy to find cheap accommodation, from affordable all-inclusive hotels to cheap beach rentals. Surfboard rentals are as low as $11 per day, and the island is also exempt from value added tax.
Train Adventures: Prague to Budapest
For an affordable and scenic adventure, take the train between two of Europe’s most beautiful and cheapest cities: Prague and Budapest, Hungary. The seven-hour trip costs just $21 each way on RegioJet.
The trip is as stunning as it is cost effective. You’ll glide past picturesque landscapes like rolling hills and castles, and you’ll even be able to see the Danube during the ride.
Although Budapest is 12% cheaper than Prague, both cities dominate when it comes to dining, accommodation and affordable prices. For example, entrance to Buda Castle costs about $4, and it’s simple to find a pint of beer in both cities for under a few dollars.
Related: 10 things no one tells you about… Budapest
Road trip: Croatia
Whether you love iconic natural landscapes like remote beaches and sparkling waterfalls or enjoy exploring red-roofed villages and historic sites, an adventure on the road through Croatia have it all.
According to Kayak, it costs less than $10 per day in low season to rent a car at Croatia’s Zagreb Airport from popular rental companies like Avis or Sixt. From there, you have options.
You can head east to the Istrian Peninsula to explore beautiful fishing villages and quiet beaches, visiting destinations like Porec, Rovinj and Pula.
Another way is to head south but stay inland, stopping at the famous Plitvice Lakes National Park as well as Rastoke, which is known as the “mini” Plitvice Lakes. Or, head south along the coast to Krka and Split National Parks. If you’re traveling off-season, keep heading to Dubrovnik, which is more affordable (and less touristy) outside of the busy summer months.
A European getaway that doesn’t need to break the bank
Whether you love a road trip or enjoy skiing, you can still travel despite the rising costs. Besides choosing the right destination, now is the perfect time to tap into those spots to save on accommodation or airfare. A combination of strategies, such as choosing affordable spots and using your points, means you can have a luxurious stay without overspending.
