Romantic, Budget-Friendly European Getaways
Looking to plan a romantic getaway? This week’s Travel Tip is centered around romantic locations in Europe which won’t break the bank. Below are our top destination choices to wind down and connect with your significant other, as well as cost-effective tips to consider during your travels.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
The cobbled streets and narrow alleys are perfect for strolling around and are also home to countless quaint spots to wine and dine. For a truly romantic experience, be sure to rent a houseboat to soak up the city’s ambiance and charm from the canals.
Valencia, Spain
Valencia is Spain’s third-largest city and among its most popular tourist destinations. Fantastic architecture, interesting history, unforgettable sunsets, and out-of-this-world food are just a few of the contributing factors to its massive popularity.
Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul is a great city for lovers. Indulge in a night-time cruise on a Bosphorus ferry. Catch the boat from Karaköy to Kadıköy at dusk and watch as the city skyline lights up. Find here a wealth of terraces and gardens in which to enjoy one another’s company.
Prague, Czech Republic
Prague is perhaps the best city in Europe for couples in search of romance, and has been considered one of the most beautiful cities in the world since the Middle Ages. There’s music in the air, beautiful art and architecture throughout, and numerous romantic activities available, such as walks along the Vltava river in winter.
Berlin, Germany
While it isn’t quite the same as Paris, Berlin is likely to be far easier on the wallet and certainly has its fair share of romantic spots for those looking to show how much they care. The Tiergarten is one of the most beautiful parks in all of Europe, and Pfaueninsel Park (Peacock Island) is the perfect spot for a private picnic.
Lisbon, Portugal
Romance embraces you on every street corner here. Stroll hand-in-hand through backstreets twisting up to hilltop veranda, hidden courtyards, and vintage funiculars and you’ll soon fall head over hills with the Portuguese capital.
Money-Saving Vacation Tips
- Traveling by foot or on public transportation will help you appreciate the beauty found within cities, and will save on expenses as well. Use public transport in place of taxis, and buy 24-hour, 3-day or even weekly public transport passes, which work out cheaper than single tickets.
- Take advantage of “Welcome Cards”, such as those found in Berlin, Germany, which includes free public transportation and many discounts to sights, tours, restaurants, museums and more.
- Use ATMs rather than travelers checks. You’ll get your cash cheaper and faster. While ATMs give the best possible rates, they do come with transaction fees. Minimize these fees by making fewer and larger withdrawals. Store the cash safely in your money belt.
- Buying your maps in Europe will cost a fraction of domestic prices, plus you’re likely to find a wider selection.
- Take advantage of leisurely ferry trips along coastlines, tandem-bicycles, or even horse-drawn carriage rides. Such means of transportation are not only means of saving money, but also perfect opportunities for relaxation and stress-free personal time to reconnect.
Trimming your budget certainly doesn’t mean sacrificing the quality of your trip, and in many cases doing so will result in a far more intimate, rewarding, and unforgettable getaway.
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