Air conditioning is virtually unheard of (including in hotels in Berlin), and the subways and buses start feeling more like saunas. When the thermometer starts rising, try these popular ways to cool down, local style.

1. Bathing: Au naturel

When summer rolls around, half the city heads to the lakes that dot Berlin and its surrounding area. Consult this Berlin swimming map and head out to nature.

And by “nature,” I mean that clothing is optional.

2. Bathing: To see and be seen

But if you’re more the type to lounge than lunge into the water, a quiet lake in a rustic forest just won’t do. Slip into something sexy and head to Badeschiff (pictured, top), a small bathing platform floating in the river smack in the middle of the city.

This is where “scenesters” come to strut their stuff and check out one another. Evening concerts and parties are especially popular. A ticket is only €8, but you have to reserve your time slot online in advance.

Look out for ice cream trucks. “Ice cream makes you happy.” Photo: Scottog

3. Ice cream

You can’t seem to walk a few blocks without walking past an ice cream parlor in the German capital. Homemade, all-natural ice cream is the norm, not the exception — there are countless independent shops that serve frozen treats in all shades and flavors. Here’s a list of some of the best.

Also, keep an eye out for ice cream trucks. On a hot day, you might just come across one for a quick and cheap cool down!

4. Fight fire with fire: Hot Currywurst

Sometimes you need to warm up to cool down. Case in point: currywurst. But where can you find currywurst in Berlin that really turns up the heat?

A glaring omission in my past post about currywurst was Curry & Chili, which has the hottest wieners in the city.

5. When all else fails: Street water pumps

Berlin sits on a huge underground water reserve, and until the 1930s Berliners used hand-operated pumps on the streets to clean, put out fires and even drink. Some 2,000 pumps remain functional today, and though they deliver untreated water straight from the ground underneath, 2/3 of them deliver drinkable quality water. (Berlin’s tap water, by the way, is excellent.)

So pump out some water, splash it on yourself and go on your merry way. It won’t cost you a thing.

The post Berlin in summer: 5 easy ways to cool down appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

However, not all of these summer destinations are recommended for travelers trying to keep their costs under control. Many are absolutely crammed with tourists, while others have become blighted with commercial development and sub-par restaurants. Meanwhile, many of those peaceful spots that retain their charm come with a high price tag.

But fear not: We’ve got several affordable Spanish seaside options for you, along with some tips on keeping it cheap at the beach. Who’s ready for a swim?

Related: Soak in the sun at these 6 budget beaches in Europe

Our favorite seaside getaways in Spain

Formentera

My favorite shorelines in all of Spain are found on the island of Formentera. The water surrounding the tiniest of the Balearic Island undulates between clear and turquoise, and come summer, it is warm and calm like a heated swimming pool.

Because there are no direct flights to the island, it has remained unspoiled and less popular and expensive than neighboring Ibiza and Mallorca. To get to Formentera and its idyllic beaches, fly first to Ibiza and then hop on a ferry which will get you to the island in about 25 minutes (about €20/each way on the Trasmapi ferry).

Accommodations in Formentera

When booking a room, note that inland options away from the beach will be a lot less expensive. Browse 240+ hotels and vacation rentals in Formentera.

Cadaqués, Costa Brava

Beautiful coves and beaches are also tucked along Catalonia’s Costa Brava. But warning: Certain areas of the Costa Brava are touristy and abound in Irish bars, fish and chip eateries, shops selling cheap plastic junk, and booze tours.

My advice is to skip these worn destinations and seek out the Costa Brava’s smaller villages. Cadaqués, a whitewashed fishing village in the north of Catalonia, is one of the regions prettiest and remains relatively unspoiled, thanks to a snaking two-lane road that is the only access to the hamlet. In August Cadaqués (and all beach towns in Spain) buzzes, but the rest of the year it’s sleepy and affordable.

Accommodations in Cadaqués

Staying in Cadaqués will put you near the Dalí Museum in Portlligat where the artist lived for 40 years. Search through this list of hotels to find affordable options.

Calella de Palafrugell is another (usually) affordable option along the Costa Brava. Photo: franganillo

Calella de Palafrugell, Costa Brava

Also along the Costa Brava is the bustling village of Calella de Palafrugell. As is the norm in this region, Calella’s shoreline is made up of several intimate coves instead of one long beach. From Calella trails cut through Mediterranean pine forest to connect to hidden inlets and other fishing villages.

Accommodations in Calella de Palafrugell

You should have no trouble finding an affordable place to stay in Calella most of the year, except in August when hotels fill up. (Check this list for available hotels.)

Islas Cies offers pristine beaches to travelers who don’t mind roughing it a bit. Photo: darkhornet

Islas Cies

On the other side of Spain in Galicia, one of the country’s most pristine coastlines welcomes travelers who don’t mind roughing it a bit. There are no hotels on the Islas Cies, and cars are not allowed. To stay right on the island’s beachfront, visitors must bring their own tent or rent a large canvas tent from the campground (neither of which is expensive). There are a couple of restaurants on the island, but not much else.

The Islas Cies offer up powdery beaches that look more like something you’d find in the Caribbean than in Northern Spain and are not crowded most of the year. The crisp, clear Atlantic is surprisingly calm along the best of the island’s beaches, which teem with sea critters.

Like Formentera, the Cies have remained immaculate partially because they take some work to get to. Visitors must fly to Vigo (there are several affordable hotels in Vigo) and then take a ferry to the islands; from the ferry, it’s a 10-minute walk to the campground and the island’s top beach.

Because the islands are in the North of Spain where the weather is rainier and colder, the summer months are the best time to drop by.

Hitting the beach in Cadaques. Photo: eugeniocanevari

Tips for seaside savings

Finally, if you find yourself at a crowded and touristy beach such as Playa d’en Bossa on Ibiza, Lloret de Mar in Catalonia, or Benidorm in Valencia, there are a few things you can do to make your money last.

• If you’re traveling in a group, you might want to opt for a vacation apartment to save on meal costs. Search for accommodations in Ibiza.

• Stock up on food and wine at the supermarket and make dinner at your apartment before a night out on the town.

• As with all of coastal Spain, the summer months are high-season and prices rise steeply from June to September. Visit outside these months if at all possible.

Beachfront eating tips

Another tip is to ask Spanish locals where they like to eat; chances are that they will be more than happy to point you in the direction of an authentic paella or tapas joint. Be careful when considering restaurants. If locals are eating and drinking at an eatery the prices will probably be lower than at spots filled with tourists.

In general, sidestep “the strip”. I’m thinking specifically of Playa d’en Bossa which boasts an overrated strip of restaurants and bars both on the shoreline and a few blocks in from the beach. No matter which beachy town you visit, search out eateries and shops along the less touristed side streets.

Your favorite beaches?

Have another budget-friendly seaside escape to add to our list? Have you been to any of these listed above? Tell us about your experience in the comments section below.

The post The best affordable beach escapes in Spain appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

But trust us, they don’t know what they’re missing. With its calm waters, white sandy beaches, picturesque sandstone cliffs and shallow bays, the shores of the Baltic Sea (“Ostsee”) in “Meck-Pomm” are among the loveliest landscape the country has to offer.

To help you take advantage of this Northern treasure, we’ve gathered some helpful tips on how to plan your trip, ways to save, and included an itinerary of the must-sees, listed from East to West.

Tips for visiting the Ostee

Be sure to book hotels early

Although the Baltic Sea is less known to foreign visitors, it is very popular with German vacationers and the best places to stay fill up fast — for the most popular locations, many Germans book as early as November for the summer months. Be sure to do your research before just waltzing in to realize there’s no room at the inn, and there hasn’t been for over six months.

Brush up on your German

Although there are many places in, say, Frankfurt or Hamburg where it feels like you’ll hear basically every other  language than German, this won’t be the case at the Baltic Sea. If you do hear someone speaking another language, chances are they are vacationing with their German partner.

Never fear, however, as you shouldn’t have any trouble getting around and communicating in English. However, the trip will still provide the perfect opportunity to brush up on your Deutsch and practice a few phrases you learned in college or high school.

Bring a rain jacket

If 100-degree weather and guaranteed sun is what you’re looking for in a summer vacation, you’d be better off heading to the Mediterranean. The temperatures along the Baltic coast are generally cooler and windier, and it often rains even at the height of summer.

Be prepared and pack a rain jacket, a light sweater and a few pair of pants mixed in with your tank tops, shorts or summer dresses.

Be prepared for clothing-optional beaches

The former East Germany was famous for embracing Freikörperkultur, which translates as “Free Body Culture”, and, in general, many Germans still love being naked in nature. Although nowadays some beaches are designated specifically for nudists, this rule is not strictly enforced by any means. You’re still likely to see grandma in the buff no matter where you are.

The good news is that if you feel like taking a swim in nothing but your birthday suit, feel free to do so. No one will even blink an eye.

Sample some Sanddorn

Called Sea Buckthorn shrub in English, Sanddorn is a bush-like tree that is covered with bright orange berries in the fall. Although you can’t eat the berries right off the tree, the locals make many products from the fruit, including candy, cakes, juice, and liqueur. The tangy, citrus taste and the neon orange color is slightly reminiscent of the space drink Tang. Maybe it’s not necessarily for everyone, but it’s worth a try.

Stralsund on the Baltic Sea is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a charming old town. Photo: @readactor

Ostsee Itinerary

Although there are many great places along Mecklenburg-Vorpommern’s Baltic Sea coastline, here is a list of some of our favorite places to visit.

Usedom

Usedom is an absolute must see. Check out the three Kaiserbäder (imperial spas): Ahlbeck, Bansin, and Heringsdorf, with their beautiful, perfectly preserved 19th-century white villas. The island’s coastline is made up of one endless, white sandy beach, perfect for whiling away a lovely summer day.

Greifswald

This town boasts a partially preserved old town mixed in with some good old fashioned East German Plattenbau. When you’re there, check out Wieck, an old fishermen’s village, home to the Eldena abbey ruins, which were painted by Caspar David Friedrich. Search for hotels in Greifswald.

Stralsund

Home to many museums, including the popular Ozeanum, this perfectly preserved and beautifully restored Hanseatic city is an absolute highlight. Search for hotels in Stralsund.

Rügen

Great for bicycling, the island of Rügen has beautiful beaches with spectacular chalk cliffs, steam trains, and a handful of posh resorts, such as Binz and Sellin. What more could you ask for?

Hiddensee

Reachable only by ferry, the small island of Hiddensee is located to the west of Rügen and is completely car-free, making it one of the most peaceful places you’ll find on the coast. Search hotels in Hiddensee.

Fischland-Darß-Zingst

Quaint fishermen’s houses with thatched roofs and colorfully painted doors nestle past the dunes in several small villages along the peninsula Fischland-Darß-Zingst. Although a bit pricier to stay, the village Ahrenshoop is still well worth a visit. A famous artist colony since the end of the 19th century, the village is home to a small but lovely art museum as well as the Bunte Stube, a historic, Bauhaus-era building which sells books and local arts and crafts.

When you’re there, don’t forget to visit the West Strand, a wild beach bordered by pristine forest, arguably the most beautiful beach on the entire coast. The Bodden, a shallow bay located on the other side of the peninsula is also a lovely, quiet place for a bicycle ride. Search hotels in Fischland-Darss-Zingst.

Wismar

Similar to Stralsund, Wismar is another former Hanseatic town with an almost perfectly preserved old town. The beaches Rerik, Boltenhagen, and Wustrow are also nearby. Search for hotels in Wismar.

The wicker chairs along the beach are fun to rent but the price tag can add up after a few days. Photo: melquiades1898

Saving on your trip to the Ostsee

Bike it

If you want to save on train, bus and car fare, consider biking your way around Meck-Pomm’s Baltic Sea and through its towns. But don’t worry — although you should be reasonably fit, the trek will be a far cry from Tour de France. The entire area is very flat and there are bike trails along the beaches and bike lanes in all of the cities and towns.

To take a look at bicycle routes, click here. Who knows? Maybe you’ll become inspired and bike all the way to Poland.

Chow down on Fisch Brötchen

Although you can expect most of the restaurants in the area to serve entrées ranging between €12-€22, a Fisch Brötchen (fish sandwich) is always a good option for a cheap lunch under €5. Although the ubiquitous rollmops (pickled herring) is not for the faint of heart, you’ll also always find less adventurous options at hand, such as baked cod and smoked salmon.

If fish isn’t your thing, head off to a bakery and pick up a belegtes Brötchen (small sandwich), always available for under €5.

Consider camping

Not all lodgings on Mecklenburg-Vorpommern’s Baltic coast carry resort-like prices. If you hunt around, you should always be able to find something more affordable. However, if you don’t mind roughing it, the cheapest option is always camping. Get your tent ready and roll up your sleeping back, then book one of the campsites listed here.

Be stingy with the Strandkorb rentals

A trip to Mecklenburg-Vorpommern’s Baltic coast is not complete unless you spend at least one lazy day lounging in a Strandkorb, the wicker beach chairs you’ll see on almost every beach. However, with prices ranging between €8-€10 a day, these lounge chairs can be costly!

Instead, shell out the cash for a Strandkorb when it’s especially windy, but just pick up a cheap beach umbrella for the nicer, sunnier days. Your wallet will thank you for it.

Consider visiting off season

Like any popular tourist destination, prices along the Baltic Coast go up exponentially in the summer. But the area is also beautiful in other seasons, especially the fall. Because of this, it’s worth considering a visit in October instead of July.

Book those hotels in advance (or try for the last minute)

It’s worth repeating: For the best deals on accommodation along the Baltic Coast, book the budget-friendly options well in advance, or take you chances with the last minute (but know that it’s a gamble!). Search hotels now.

The post Germany’s Baltic Sea: Tips for an affordable trip to the Ostsee appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Keep the weather in mind while you’re looking for a hotel. Ask yourself these questions:

– Will my room have air conditioning?
– Will my room have a fan?
– Will my room have a window?
– Will that window open onto a noisy street, meaning I won’t be able to sleep?

If the heat bothers you, you’ll want to pay more and get A/C. To avoid noise from the street with the window open, don’t stay in the center of the city.

Here are a few hotels we like for the summer, for different reasons:

The Hostal Nuevo Colon’s proximity to the beach makes it a prime summer pick.

Hostal Nuevo Colon

Avenida Marqués de Argentera, 19
La Ribera
Doubles from $55

No air conditioning here, but there are fans. Ask for an interior room if you’re worried about noise from the street coming through an open window. The Nuevo Colon makes the list because it’s very close to the beach, which is excellent from June to October.

The air conditioning at the Hostal Orleans can be a lifesaver in August

Hostal Orleans

Avenida Marqués de la Argentera, 13
La Ribera
Doubles from $65

Like the Hostal Nuevo Colon, the Hostal Orleans is just a short walk to the beach or breezy Barceloneta. This hostal, however, offers air-conditioned rooms, which is almost a must in August, when the heat and humidity in the city are dialed up all the way.

The Hotel Banys Orientals provides a bit of summer luxury at Cheapo rates.

Hotel Banys Orientals

Calle Argenteria 37
La Ribera
Doubles from $130

A step (or three) up from both hostals, this hotel is one of our favorites, located not too far from the beach in the Born area. Not only does it have A/C, it also has a bar where you can have a refreshing cava mimosa and cool off in the evenings.

More ways to beat the heat

Keep in mind that Eixample hotels and hostals will also be good options, as the Eixample, especially in August, is less touristy. Anything on La Rambla and around Pl. Catalunya will be noisy.

Anything to add?

Do you have your own advice on how to take the ‘hot’ out of ‘hotel?’ How about any other questions or comments about summer in Barcelona?  Let us know by posting in the comments section below.

The post Barcelona’s best hotels for the summer months appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

From its fascinating history to mind-blowing Gaudi architecture, the city offers so much for those in search of a rich cultural experience. Meanwhile, its affordable restaurants, bars and tapas spots make it a top destination for culinary tourists. Even those into more active vacations will enjoy riding around the city on bikes or hitting the beach!

Need a little nudge? Let these photographs I’ve taken of some of my favorite aspects of the city convince you to come this spring and summer to Barcelona:

The Santa Maria del Mar Church

1. History

Stroll cobblestone streets and gawk at thousands of years of history hidden in the walls around you.

Barcelona’s streets offer lots of free art.

2. Art

You don’t need to pay to go into a museum to see art in Barcelona, it’s all around you. Street art is abundant in the metropolis! Of course, the city has plenty of art museums, too. Here’s a list of free and cheap places to see great art.

Hit the beach in nearby towns or even in Barcelona itself. Above, the beach in la Barceloneta

3. Beach

From May to October, swim in the Mediterranean Sea along the Barcelona shoreline! Before you race into the water, read our essential guide to visiting Barcelona’s beaches.

Excellent Spanish wines are very affordable in Barcelona.

4. Wine

Spain produces some of the best wine in the world. Guess what? You can drink it in Barcelona and it won’t cost you more than $6 a bottle! Here are some of my favorite wine bars, plus suggestions for more great central bars.

Go back to nature by wandering through the city’s gardens.

5. Hike

Walk around the many gardens tucked into the folds of Montjuïc Mountain, an area easily reached from the city center. Look for Jardins de Mossen Costa i Llobera for a wonderful cacti collection! (Read more about the Parc de la Ciutadella and the Parc Guell.)

Go Ga-Ga for Gaudi’s eclectic architecture in Barcelona.

6. Architecture

You could spend a week or more just visiting Antoni Gaudí sights and buildings in Barcelona… Check out this article on surviving Parc Guell in all its Gaudi glory, tips for visiting the Sagrada Familia and this round-up of our favorite hotels near Gaudi architecture.

Enjoy summer drinks at night in plazas throughout Barcelona

7. Plazas

Nothing is sweeter than a cold drink on a breezy plaza in the evening come spring and summer in Barcelona. Here’s a list of beach-side bars and here are my three favorite plazas to visit.

Eat locally by buying yummy Catalan food at the outdoor food markets.

8. Markets

Buy fresh local products at the many outdoor and open markets in the city. Goat cheese anyone? Here’s a list of my three favorite outdoor food markets in the city.

Embrace the night in Barcelona.

9. Nightlife

Every night of the week there is something going on in Barcelona. In this photo, patrons line up for El Molino, a cabaret club in Poble Sec. Looking for some nightlife suggestions? I outline some club and bar options in my “Cheapo night out” article. And here’s a list of good budget hotels located near the city’s nightlife.

Great food at affordable prices is easy to come by in Barcelona.

10. Food

Barcelona is known for its excellent cuisine. Mediterranean eats include lots of veggies, fish and seafood. Need some suggestions for great cheap eats? Read our general tips on keeping your dining budget in check, our guide to local foods worth trying, super cheap dining options (seriously, under €6), and this list of great lunch spots.

Need more?

Obviously, there are many reasons to visit Barcelona this year. For more help on planning your trip, be sure to swing by our Barcelona guide.

The post Barcelona: 10 photos that will inspire you to visit appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

For those looking to experience the lesser-known side of the country, here is why Spain’s southernmost port should be added to your itinerary.

It’s The Epicenter Of Kite Surfing

While once just a tiny fishing village, water sport enthusiasts began flocking to Tarifa once they realized how strong and steady the winds were. Today, it is one of the most popular destinations for windsurfing and kitesurfing in Europe.

When visiting Tarifa, the first thing you’ll notice are the myriad kite surfing schools littering the town, as well as the hundreds of colorful kites zipping over the water.

Relax at night with a table of tapas.

Easy Access To Morocco

For those who wish to step onto the African continent, you can take a speedy ferry from Tarifa in about 45 minutes. Several ferries leave daily, and are €31 (about $40) each way. You’ll land in Tangier, where you can hire a local guide at the ferry terminal or just wander the streets on your own.

Fresh Seafood

You know you’re getting fresh seafood because you’re right on the coast. Additionally, the small local restaurants of this laid-back Andalusian town use traditional methods to create high quality tapas. Some worthwhile restaurants serving fresh Spanish seafood and tapas include Restaurant Morilla and Bodega La Casa Amarilla on Calle Sancho IV el Bravo and Bar Los Melli on Guzman el Bueno.

Alternatively, Tarifa is also home to many non-Spanish restaurants, like Ali Baba for Middle Eastern, Rosso Pomodoro for Italian and Surla for Sushi, crepes and burgers—for when you’re in the mood for something else.

Hit the beach—and take a kit-surfing class!

Both Atlantic And Mediterranean Beaches

When visiting Tarifa, you’ll be able to swim in both the Atlantic and Mediterranean in one day. There’s Beach Playa Chica which sits on the Mediterranean, while less than a 10 minute walk away is Beach Playa Los Lances on the Atlantic.

In the Old Town, you can also walk out on the dock to have the windy Atlantic on the north side, and the calmer Mediterranean on the south side.

Active Pursuits

Along with being the windsurfing and kitesurfing capital of Europe, it also features opportunities to horseback ride, surfski, surf, scuba dive, stand up paddle board, cycle and hike.

While water sports and horseback riding can be enjoyed at the many beaches, cycling and hiking can be done at one of the local parks or nature reserves. For example, Los Alcornocales Nature Park showcases untouched mountain, beach and forest landscapes, an array of bird and land-animal species and lookout points providing views of Andalusia beyond Tarifa.

Take a ride on a zipline.

Rich History

Tarifa has a rich history that is still visible today. At the end of Tarifa’s main road, Batalla del Salado, you’ll see a giant arch letting you know you’re passing into the old town. Narrow cobblestoned streets, Moorish architecture and whitewashed buildings create an Old-World atmosphere, while sights like Guzman Castle, medieval ruins and 10th-century Arabic city walls are a reminder of the city’s Muslim rule from 710 to 1292.

The Castle of Guzman El Bueno was built in 960 AD and is the site where General Guzman el Bueno’s son was held hostage by the Moors in 1294, wanting him to surrender the castle. The general refused, even tossing his own dagger down to his enemies to show his bravery. Unfortunately, the Moors used the dagger to kill the boy.

Getting There

If you’re flying, you’ll arrive in Pablo Picasso Airport (AGP) in Malaga. From there, you can either rent a car and drive to Tarifa, or opt to take a bus from the city center. To go straight to Tarifa, the bus comes three times per day, at 7:30 a.m., 12:00 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.

Your other option is to take a faster bus to Algeciras, which is only 12 miles from Tarifa. There are about 15 buses per day leaving from Malaga to Algeciras. In Algeciras, you’ll walk about 10 minutes to get to the COMES bus station, where you can catch a bus to Tarifa. For more information on how to get to Tarifa, click here.

Cheapo Accommodation

Tarifa is home to many affordable and comfortable accommodation options. The Melting Pot is popular with backpackers, and is right in the center of town walking distance from all activities and attractions. If you don’t want to share a dorm, which costs €13 (about $17) per night, they also offer a double room for €35 (about $45) per night. All rooms include breakfast.

For something a little more upscale but still affordable, Hotel Misiana is a charming, 21st-century hotel that starts at €39 (about $50) per night, including breakfast. And while you won’t find over-the-top luxury hotels in Tarifa, one that comes close is Hotel Copacabana, located just opposite Valdevaqueros Beach and in front of Los Alcornocales National Park. Room rates start at €85 (about $108) per night.

The post Tarifa: Spain’s oft-overlooked destination appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

The picturesque old train, comprised of half a dozen wooden cars dating back to the railway’s opening in 1912, was the island’s first electrified railway. It was constructed to connect Mallorca’s largest city, Palma, with the then-booming town of of Sóller, located about an hour’s tug away, over the mountains on the northwest side of the island.

What awaited on the other side of the mountain shouldn’t be missed. Here are five reasons that Sóller makes a great day trip (or escape) from Palma:

Boarding the train to Sóller.

1. The train ride from Palma

The vintage train is reason unto itself to visit Sóller. Originally constructed to transport olives and oranges (and their growers) between the town and the city, the train today serves mostly tourists. Still, it’s a worthwhile endeavor, offering interesting views of Palma as you pull out of town, before climbing the nearby Sierra de Tramuntana mountains. Winding its way up, crossing bridges, and heading through tunnels, the hour-long train ride offers great views and plenty of photo-ops.

The ride costs €19.50, per person, round-trip. Seven journeys a day run between the two towns during high season. (Read more on the train’s Web site.)

Sóller’s main square, anchored by the cathedral.

2. Medieval town.

The train depot, constructed in 1912, is situated just steps away from the city’s medieval place of worship, the Cathedral of St. Bertholomew, named after the patron saint of this town of 15,000. The cathedral, which celebrated its 500th anniversary in 2010, offers three distinct styles in one building: Medieval (the original structure), Baroque (the church’s ornate interior and extension), and Modernist (the curvy, Gaudi-esque facade).

Once outside, wander the narrow, Medieval streets, with buildings constructed closely together to block the powerful summer sun. Indeed today, the streets, nearly always in shadows, offer a cool respite.

As you walk, smell: The air carries a floral scent. The town is surrounded by orange groves and mountainsides packed with olive trees. This sweet smell seems to settle far below along the Sóller’s narrow streets.

Inside the Modernist Museum.

3. Art Nouveau / Modernismo

It’s not all Medieval in Sóller’s old center. During difficult economic times during the 19th century, many Mallorcan’s fled the island, seeking opportunities elsewhere, including in the United States. Some of these former residents of Sóller (and their descendents) made their fortunes and returned to Sóller, bringing with them great wealth and in interest in constructing new homes in the “hot” style of the day, Catalan Modernism (Art Nouveau), a look made famous by Gaúdi.

Walking through the center of Sóller, modernist facades sit comfortably next to structures constructed 400 years prior. Interestingly, the modernist style was so en vogue 100 years ago that many of these tell-tale elements (fanciful, curving doorways, windows, staircases), were standardized and picked out of a catalog. A student of Gaudi’s even spent time in the city, working on the cathedral’s facade.

Fans of art nouveau architecture shouldn’t miss the Ca’n Prunera, an early 20th-century mansion that opened as the city’s Modernist Museum in 2009. The museum lets visitors wander through a painstakingly restored modernist residence, and offers a selection of modern paintings, photographs and sculpture.

Hopping on the train to Sóller’s port.

4. Another tram!

There’s more to Sóller than the old town, of course. A few kilometers away beckons the port, with its beach and harbor. To get there, you can walk it, or hop on another wooden tram (again operated by the Ferrocarril de Soller). The tram departs every 30 minutes (in high season / 60 minutes during the winter) from the street just outside the train station. Round-trip tickets are €10 per person.

This ride, passing along the city’s main street, past stores and residences, is less thrilling than its mountain climbing sibling, but it still offers a pleasant 15-minute stroll. Things get more interesting, of course, when it makes a final turn, pulling along…

Pulling into the Port of Sóller.

5. The Port de Sóller

Arriving into the Port de Sóller by tram is a bit of a thrill, as you cruise straight down the main drag, hugging the harbor, easing past couples flopped onto blankets and children frolicking in the calm waters of the bay, which stretches out into the Mediterranean. And wrapping around its shores, the purple-green mountains of the Serra de Tramuntana look down.

To the right side of the tram, a line of hotels and restaurants offer a respite from the sun. Indeed, I recharged with a favorite, local drink: freshly squeezed orange juice. Enjoy a glass, while contemplating the role that this sweet fruit played in the town’s history.

Getting there: This post is part of a series sponsored by airberlin, which now offers flights between New York and Palma de Mallorca. Find rates and special offers on airberlin.com.

The post Mountains, Beaches, and Modernismo: 5 reasons to visit Sóller, Spain appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

In addition to all of the festivals and concerts, there is a little beachy oasis in the center of the city called “Paris Plages” that is not to be missed.

Paris Plages

Starting in July and running through August or September, the Paris Plages season turns the banks of the Seine and the Canal into beach (plage) havens. Paris Plages launched in 2002.  It seems just like yesterday…

On the banks of the river by the Hotel de Ville, cars are forbidden and visitors can sunbathe in a lounge chair, build castles in the temporary sand pits, play pétanque as crowds watch on, and stroll along the river as palm trees sway overhead and music floats through the air.

It’s just enough to make you feel like you’ve made it to the Mediterranean.

More plages: Bassin de la Villette

But this town has more than one plage. Along the Bassin de la Villette in the 19th arrondissement, you’ll find a more relaxed scene, as fewer tourists make the trek. There are various water-themed activities for children, in addition to outdoor concerts and even country line dancing. Locals line the vast stretches of both banks, the Quai de la Loire and the Quai de la Seine, with picnics late into the night.

For the kids…

There are plenty of events geared towards children at the “beaches.” There are small workshops and educational stands along the Seine teaching children about recycling, water and even eclipses. Once the children are bored with that, they can hop in the water and start having some fun.

Along the Seine there are paddleboats by Pont Sully, water bars to rehydrate and volleyball courts. At the Villette beach, there are various kayaks, even more paddle boats, and other nautical experiences for children and adults, including an inflatable water-bound hamster wheel that small children seem to enjoy. For those with little ones we’ve got another post on things to do with kids in Paris.

…and for the adults

For the older set, there is the ritualistic sunbathing, but also foosball tables – “babyfoot” in French – and a stage offering dance performances, from classic waltz to country ho-down.

The best part? It’s all free.

Check out the city’s Web site in English and in French for even more information on the Paris Plages, including maps of both beaches with the various activities.

The post Paris: Hit the beach at the “Paris Plages” appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

For most of the year, the Barcelones and tourists visiting the city block out the fact that Barcelona is a beach city. Barcelona’s sands are empty in the winter months, save the one crazy Señor whose aim in life is to swim in the sea every single morning, no matter how cold the water may be.

La Barceloneta

Barcelona’s beach-side barrio, La Barceloneta, is within easy walking distance from the old Gothic center of the city. This is by far the city’s most popular stretch of shore. As soon as May and June roll around, people start to remember the Mediterranean Sea is nearby, and flock in droves to Barceloneta Beach.

Cooling off at Barcelona’s beach-side bars

However, there is more to La Barceloneta than swimming and tanning, and for those who prefer to observe the sea from a shaded terrace with a cold drink in one hand and a tapa in the other, this authentic barrio has a lot to offer.

Here are my favorite beach-side bars in Barcelona:

El Filferro
Calle Sant Carlos, 29
Tel: 93 221 9836
Entrees from €11 to €20

You can’t see the Mediterranean from here, but the outdoor terrace set in a small Barceloneta Square is charming. El Filferro is usually less crowded than other bars because it is not right on the beach, though it is literally one block from the seaside. The menu boasts non-cooked tapas, a great wine list and an ample selection of teas. It has a bohemian vibe and a staff of hipster waiters.

Foc Bar
Joan de Borbo 66
Tel: 932 41 153
Drinks from €5 to €13
Web site

Located on the Port, the Foc Bar has a small terrace out front perfect for people watching. The place is very popular with the young foreign crowd and people living on their boats docked at the port. I like it for the selection of cocktails. Foc also shows most sporting events on a large-screen TV inside.

Jai-ca
C/ Ginebra, 13
Tel: 93 319 50 02
Entrees from €9

Best tapas in La Barceloneta? Maybe. If you want to feel true frustration, try to get a table here on a weekend. Ha! Not going to happen. Go early during the week and sit outside on the sidewalk table area. Jai-ca serves beer, wine and some mixed drinks, plus fabulous “Tigre Tapas”.

Princesa 23
Carrer de la Princesa, 23
Tel: 932 688 618
Entrees from €18
Web site

This may not be my favorite place, but you can’t beat the location. It’s overpriced for the quality of the food and drinks, but the Princesa gets away with it because if you fall off your bar stool you will land on the sand. Indeed, it is a fun place to grab a glass of wine around 7 or 8 p.m. as the day is coming to an end. The place is popular with foreigners, and you should keep an eye on your bag.

Santa Marta
Carrer de Grau i Torras, 59
Tel: 34691236801
Drinks from €3.50 to €10

Santa Marta may have the nicest terrace seating of all the bars in La Barceloneta. The view is extensive and looks right out onto the sand and the sea. I like this place for coffee (the Italian coffee is great) and beers in the afternoon. Stop by to work on your tan while reading the paper.

The post Barcelona: Beach-side bars in La Barceloneta appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

For all other readers, here are a few activities in Florence that will keep you on the cooler side of the sun without spending a ton.

Swimming in Florence

The biggest and most frequented pool complex in town is la Piscina Comunale Costoli near the Campo di Marte Stadium. The complex contains three pools and during the summer  is open to the public for €6.50. There is also a baby pool and water slides. To get there, take ATAF buses 10, 17 or 20 or walk five minutes north of the Campo di Marte Train Station.

Another option is the Parco Piscina Le Pavoniere, an outdoor pool set in a green space along the Arno River. Entry costs €7 on weekdays and €8 on the weekends. The pool is within walking distance from the center. It can also be accessed by ATAF bus 17C.

Beaches near Florence

Public beaches are quite scarce in Italy, so a trip to the sea could mean dishing out some cash for a spot in the sand. Typical expenses on these private beaches include fees for chairs, parasols or an entrance fee to the beach.

The closest option from Florence is Viareggio, which can be accessed by train in an hour and a half.  (It makes a good day trip.) A round-trip ticket costs around €12, but the rest of your excursion could run a bit higher depending on which part of the beach you settle on. Being the closest beach to Florence, Viareggio can also get quite packed, and the prices in the city tend to be on the spicy side.

If you have access to a car, why not take a little adventure up the coast? Everyone raves about Cinque Terre, but Tuscany’s Riviera Apuana is much less crowded and closer to Florence. Plus,  it has its own share of Mediterranean charisma.

Parks in Florence

While in Florence, shade is your friend. And trees give lots of shade so you will definitely want to be friends with them. The problem is that there is not much green in downtown Florence—unless you visit the little parks peppered between the streets.

A perfect example is the small yet beautiful Giardino del Palazzo Vivarelli Colonna near the Santa Croce Basilica.  It’s open Tuesday to Thursday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. It offers lots of trees and lots of shade, and it’s entirely free.

A second option is Le Cascine, the largest public park in Florence. Situated along the Arno River, it’s a great place to picnic, read and relax. On Tuesdays, it turns into a huge market from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. However, like all big city public parks, it’s best to avoid it once the sun sets.

And as a last option to beat the heat: There is, of course, air-conditioning.

The post Florence Pools, Parks, and Beaches: Cheap ways to keep cool under the Tuscan sun appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.