For those looking to save some euros, one place to begin your research is by looking at Paris’ free museums and attractions (or those with reduced admission).

It is possible, after all, to take in a lot of the city’s culture without forking over too much cash. Here’s a quick guide to a few of our favorite free museums and tips for finding discounted admission.

Related:
• 47 ways to save on your trip to Paris
• 8 best cheap hotels in Paris for 2025

Always free museums in Paris

Some museums and many public monuments are free every day. This is great to know when you get caught in the rain and don’t want to kill time in a café.

Note that some of these have a (sometimes strongly) recommended “donation” ticket. While giving something isn’t required, it’s certainly a nice gesture.

Free museums include:

• The Musée d’Art Moderne, not far from the Eiffel Tower, is one of two modern art museums in Paris. Its special exhibitions cost 5-12 euros, but the permanent collection is completely free.
• Notre Dame Cathedral, and any church (other than Sainte Chapelle) for that matter, is fair game.
• The Musée Carnavalet in the Marais, allows you to tour the complete history of the city for free. (“Donation ticket” €5.) Temporary exhibitions can cost 10-13 euros.
• Arène de Lutèce, the city’s old Roman amphitheater, is just hanging out in the Latin Quarter waiting for visitors to drop in for a picnic while watching the local children play soccer.
• You can also walk through the courtyards and outer halls of the Hotel des Invalides and check out the canons guarding Napoleon’s tomb without paying to actually go inside.
• The Atelier Brancusi displays the sculptures of Constantin Brancusi just outside of the Centre Pompidou, including the famous sculpture l’oiseau dans l’espace. The workshop is completely free to visit.
• More museums that are free every day include: Maison de Victor Hugo, Musée de la Vie Romantique, Musée Curie, the Shoah Memorial, the Petit Palais – Musée des Beaux Arts, the Musée du Parfum-Fragonard and more. Note that many of these charge admission to special exhibits, but visiting the permanent collection is free.

Along with free fireworks over the Eiffel Tower, Bastille Day means free admission to many of the city’s museums. Photo: Yann Caradec

Sometimes free museums in Paris

If you’re planning your trip like a Cheapo, come to Paris on a weekend for the first Sunday of the month when many national museums are open for free, like the Pompidou and Musee d’Orsay.

Keep in mind that some museums will only offer the free first Sunday per month in the off-season. Look at the “practical information” section of the museum website you plan to visit and it should tell you.

To celebrate the national holiday, Bastille Day, national museums, like the Louvre, are also open for free on July 14 every year. (This could also be to distract the revolutionary-minded from storming any more prisons.)

Discounted with a Paris Museum Pass

Purchasing a Paris Museum Pass (available for 2, 4 or 6 days) will provide entrance to most national museums and monuments, including the Palace at Versailles and the Arc de Triomphe.

If you are a history and art buff, the pass will easily pay for itself. All you need to do is plan your visits in advance.

For example, a two-day museum pass costs €70. If you plan on visiting both the Conciergerie prison (where Marie Antoinette was imprisoned) and the adjacent Sainte Chapelle church, admission will cost a total of €26, if purchased independently. Throw in a ticket to the Louvre (€22), the Rodin Museum (€14), and the Centre Pompidou (€15), and in two days, you’ve saved a bit of cash.

We don’t mean to oversell the pass. However, if you are dedicated to visiting multiple museums, the pass can be a very good deal.

Free for visitors under 26 years old

• EU citizens under 26: All permanent collections of national museums and monuments are free for EU cardholders under 26 years of age.
• Other residents under 26 (with carte de sejour): Many Americans and Canadians may think this law passes them up. But wait! The thousands of study abroad students, au pairs, and English assistants who have legal residency in France or elsewhere in Europe are also covered by this law. So, if you’re under 26, head to the Musée d’Orsay or the Natural History Museum, wave your passport and carte de séjour, and you’ll get a free ticket.
• Children: Children often get into places for free. However, ages vary considerably, so be sure to ask at the ticket window.

And remember that free entry usually only applies to a museum’s permanent collections and often doesn’t cover special exhibits. However, these special exhibitions often offer discounted youth tickets.

Hotel des Invalides offers daily reduced admission rates late in the day. Photo: Jean-Pierre Dalbéra

Discounts and other deals

If a museum’s entrance is not free, you can often find various discounts if you know where to look. Work up the courage to ask if the price seems steep. Youth and “under 18” visitors can usually get reductions even if you don’t have EU paperwork, so visitors can still benefit from reductions.

Also, museums often work in tandem to offer discounts. For example, if you present your ticket to Palais Garnier when you visit the Musée d’Orsay, you’ll receive a discount (if you visit within 8 days). Obviously, right? Check out the offers posted at the ticket booth.

More info

The Paris Tourism Office has a website in English that can be useful for finding up-to-date information for any museum in Paris. Search by museum name, and soon you’ll realize how much money you can save (and how many Mona Lisa mugs you’ll finally be able to buy at the Louvre gift shop!). They even have an incredibly comprehensive list of all free and reduced admission museums and times.

Looking for even more free ideas? Here’s a list of 25 free things in Paris that we love and 7 things in Paris that are always free.

The post Paris: A list of free and discounted museums appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Related: 10 tips for packing for a two-week European trip

For Cheapos, there’s one more obvious reason to keep the amount of luggage to a minimum: checked-baggage charges. They can add up fast!

More than a decade ago, many transatlantic carriers allowed you to check two bags for free on international flights. Those were the days… After years of financial turbulence in the airline industry, most airlines implemented new complicated baggage policies, which we’ve constantly monitored in the chart below since 2011.

As you can see, many airlines still permit one free checked-in bag in economy. However, that is often not the case if you’ve booked in a “basic economy” class on certain airlines.

The chart below has been updated to reflect baggage policies and charges as of April 2024.

US to Europe Flights: Baggage fees

Here’s a quick overview of baggage policies for the major airlines flying between the United States and Europe. Prices have gone up quite a bit since we last updated this list, and they keep increasing by the day, even with oil prices now dropping.

Some airlines have also made it come complicated to calculate baggage charges, so you might have to dig deep into their websites for the information. But we discovered that in some cases fees have doubled or more in just a couple of years!

Please note that the following charges are one-way.

Note that the prices below are for standard tickets purchased on the airline. Many of these airlines offer a checked bag for free for qualifying members of their frequent flyer programs, for tickets purchased with an airline-connected credit card, or those booking in a class higher than economy. See notes below, and check with your airline or credit card for details.

Click the airline names for more details about their policies.

Winners and losers

We’ve highlighted what we think are the airlines with the best “Cheapo-friendly” baggage policies. This is assuming that most US-based travelers to Europe will be checking in at least one suitcase. Policies that we feel are a good deal are highlighted in green, while those that aren’t budget-friendly are in red.

Most big-name and legacy carriers used to permit one free checked bag for US to Europe passengers with any Economy fare. However, those days are long gone. Although most fare types will give you one bag for free, the cheapest option on almost all airlines (usually called Light or Basic Economy, etc) now charge for checked baggage. Our advice: Read the fine print and check the baggage policy twice. Things can change at a moments notice.

Aer Lingus

Notes: All information is for US to Europe flights, economy class.

• First checked bag: Free up to 50 lbs (23 kg); the exception is Saver fare which will cost $49.99-$64.99
• Second checked bag: $100, €75 or £65
• Third checked bag: $100, €75 or £65
• Excess weight: 50-70 lbs (23 kg-32 kg): $100, €75 or £65
• More information on Aer Lingus’ checked baggage policy.
• Carry-on: One piece, up to 22 lbs (10 kg), along with one small personal item.
• More information on Aer Lingus’ carry-on policy.

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Aeroflot

Notes: All information is for US to Europe flights, economy class.

• First checked bag: Free, up to 50 lbs (23 kg); the exception is if you have a Light fare ticket
• Second checked bag: $100 or €94 (20% off if you pay in advance online)
• Third checked bag: $200 or €188 (20% off if you pay in advance online)
• Excess weight: 50-70 lbs (23-32 kg): Up to $200 or €200 (more information on excess baggage fees)
• More information on Aeroflot’s checked baggage policy
• Carry-on: 1 piece, weighing up to 22 lbs (10 kg), plus a small personal item.
• More information on Aeroflot’s carry-on policy.

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Air Canada

Notes: All information is for US to Europe flights, economy class.

• First checked bag: $75 CAD up to 50 lbs (23 kg) with an Economy Basic fare
• Second checked bag: $100 CAD
• Third checked bag: $225
• Excess baggage: 50-70 lbs (23-32 kg): $100 (more information on excess baggage fees)
• More information on Air Canada’s checked baggage policy.
• Carry-on: 1 piece (no weight limit, but you must be able to store it in the overhead bins yourself), plus one smaller personal item
• More information on Air Canada’s carry-on policy.

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Air France

Notes: All information is for US to Europe flights, economy class.

• First checked bag: Free, up to 50 lbs (23 kg), unless you have a Light Fare tickets, then it costs $80 (online) or $100 (at the airport)
• Second checked bag: $100
• Third checked bag: $285
• Excess weight: 50-70 lbs (23-32 kg): Varies based on destination
• Tip: Pay for additional bags online in advance and pay up to 20% less.
• More information on Air France’s checked baggage policy.
• Carry-on: 1 bag and one personal item. Total weight for the two items must not exceed 26.5 lbs (12 kg).
• More information on Air France’s carry-on baggage policy.

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American Airlines

Notes: All information is for US to Europe flights, Basic Economy class.

• First checked bag: Free in Main Cabin, Basic Economy: $75 up to 50 lbs (23 kg)
• Second checked bag: $100
• Third checked bag: $200
• Excess weight: 50-70 lbs (23-32 kg): $100
• Carry-on: One piece and one personal item are allowed.
• More information on American Airlines checked and carry-on baggage policy.

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Austrian Airlines

Notes: All information is for US to Europe flights, economy class.

• First checked bag: Free, up to 50 lbs (23 kg); the exception is Economy Light fare
• Second checked bag: $90 online; $180 at the airport
• Third checked bag: $185 online; $240 at the airport
• Excess weight: 50-70 lbs (23-32 kg): $140 to $370
• More information on Austrian Airlines’ checked-baggage policy, or use the luggage fee calculator.
• Carry-on: One piece weighing up to 17.5 lbs (8 kg), plus one personal item.
• More information on Austrian Airlines’ carry-on baggage policy.

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British Airways

Notes: All information is for US to Europe flights, economy class.

• First checked bag: Free, up to 50 lbs (23 kgs); the exception is Basic fare ticket
• Second checked bags: prices range from $90 – 100 (depending on ticket type, destination and when you purchase)
• Third checked bag: $170-200
• Excess weight: 50-70 lbs (23-32 kg): $100
• Carry-on: One piece no more than 50 lbs (23kg), plus one laptop-sized bag or handbag.
• More information on British Airway’s checked and carry-on baggage policies.

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Delta

Notes: All information is for US to Europe flights, Basic Economy class.

• First checked bag: Free in Main Cabin, Basic Economy $75, up to 50 lbs (23 kg)
• Second checked bag: $100
• Third checked bag: $200
• Excess weight: 50-70 lbs (23-32 kg): $100 (more information on Delta’s excess weight policy)
• Carry-on: One piece, plus one small personal item.
• More information on Delta’s checked and carry-on bag policies.

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Finnair

Notes: All information is for US to Europe flights, economy class.

• First checked bag: Free, up to 50 lbs (23 kg); the exception is a Light fare ticket which is €65/$70 when paid online
• Second checked bag: €90/$100
• Third checked bag: €180/$200
• Excess weight: 50-70 lbs (23-32 kg): €110/$121 online or €80/$90 at the airport (more information on Finnair’s excess weight policy)
• More information on Finnair’s checked-baggage policy.
• Carry-on: One bag, up to 17.5 lbs plus a small personal item for a combined weight of 8 kg.
• More information on Finnair’s carry-on baggage policy.

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Iberia

Notes: All information is for US to Europe flights, economy class.

• First checked bag: Free, up to 50 lbs (23 kg); the exception is Basic fare
• Second checked bag: usually about $90 at the airport ($80 online in advance), but varies by destination and ticket purchase date
• Third checked bag: $180 at the airport ($150 online in advance), but varies by destination and ticket purchase date
• Excess weight: 50-70 lbs (23-32 kg): €75/$100 or €12 to €15/kilo
• More information on Iberia’s checked-baggage policy.
• Carry-on: One item, plus one personal item.
• More information on Iberia’s carry-on baggage policy.

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Icelandair

Notes: All information is for US to Europe flights, economy class.

• First checked bag: Free, up to 50 lbs (23 kg); the exception is an Economy Light ticket
• Second checked bag: $130 per extra bag (depending on destination) up to 50 lbs (23 kg)
• Third checked bag: $130 per extra bag (depending on destination) up to 50 lbs (23 kg)
• Excess weight: 50-70 lbs (23-32 kg): $110/€85 (more information on Icelandair’s excess weight policy)
• Carry-on: One piece, weighing up to 22 lbs (10 kg), plus one small personal item.
• More information on Icelandair’s checked and carry-on baggage policies.

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ITA Airways

Notes: All information is for US to Europe flights, economy class.

• First checked bag: Free, up to 50 lbs (23 kg); the exception is a Light fare ticket which costs $75 to $170 or €60 to €150
• Second checked bag: $85 to $250 or €75 to €230
• Third checked bag: $200 to $280 or €180 to €250
• Excess weight: 50-70 lbs (23-32 kg): $75 to $125 or €60 to €100
• Note: Save more when purchasing extra baggage allowance online more than 8 days before your trip.
• More information on ITA’s checked-baggage policy.
• Carry-on bag: One piece, up to 17.6 lbs (8 kg).

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KLM

Notes: All information is for US to Europe flights, economy class.

• First checked bag: Free, up to 50 lbs (23 kg); the exception is a Light fare ticket
• Second checked bag: €85/$100
• Third checked bag: €240/$285
• Note: Save 20-50% on additional bags when you pay for them in advance online. Details.
• More information on KLM’s checked-baggage policy.
• Excess weight: 50-70 lbs (23-32 kg): €85-€250 or $100-$300
• More information on KLM’s excess weight policy.
• Carry-on: One piece and one small personal item, with a combined weight up to 26 lbs (12 kg).
• More information on KLM’s carry-on baggage policy.

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LOT

Notes: All information is for US to Europe flights, economy class.

• First checked bag: Free, up to 50 lbs (23 kg), except for Economy Saver tickets
• Second checked bag: $55 to $380 per extra bag, depending on travel dates
• Third checked bag: $55 to $380 per extra bag, depending on travel dates
• Excess weight: 50-70 lbs (23-32 kg): $120-$240
• Tip: Pay online early to save up to 20%
• Carry-on: One piece up to 17.5 lbs (8 kg), along with one small personal item.
• More information on LOT’s checked and carry-on baggage policies.

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Lufthansa

Notes: All information is for US to Europe flights, economy class.

• First checked bag: Free, up to 50 lbs (23 kg)
• Second checked bag: $90
• Third checked bag: $185 to $230 online, $230 to $285 at the airport
• More information on Lufthansa’s checked-baggage policy
• Excess weight: 50-70 lbs (23-32 kg) $140-$505
• Tip: You can opt to take your ski bag as part of your free baggage allowance
• Carry-on: One piece up to 17.5 lbs (8 kg), along with one small personal item.
• More information on Lufthansa’s baggage policies.

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Olympic Air

Notes: All information is for US to Europe flights, economy class.

• First checked bag: Free, up to 50 lbs (23 kg); the exception is Economy Light, Flex & Family fares
• Second checked bag: €20-€60 (pre-purchase) or €30-€70 at the airport
• Third checked bag: €20-€60 (pre-purchase) or €30-€70 at the airport
• Excess weight: 46-70 lbs (21-32 kg): €20-€65 (pre-purchase) or €30-€65 at the airport
• Carry-on: One piece up to 17.5 lbs (8 kg).
• More information on Olympic Air’s baggage policies.

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Swiss Airlines

Notes: All information is for US to Europe flights, economy class.

• First checked bag: Free, up to 50 lbs (23 kg); the exception is a Light fare ticket
• Second checked bag: €80-€90 online or €160-€170 at the airport
• Third checked bag: €160-170 online or €210-€220 at the airport
• More information on Swiss Air’s checked-baggage policy.
• Excess weight: 50-70 lbs (23-32 kg): €120-€440
• Carry-on: One piece, up to 17.5 lbs (8 kg), and a small personal item.
• More information on Swiss Air’s carry-on baggage policy.

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TAP Portugal

Notes: All information is for US to Europe flights, economy class.

• First checked bag: Free, up to 50 lbs (23 kg); the exception is Discount fare
• Second checked bag: $70-$225, depending on travel dates and destination
• Third checked bag: $80-$300
• Excess weight: $70-$440
• More information on TAP’s checked-baggage policy.
• Carry-on: One item, weighing up to 17.5 lbs (8 kg).
• More information on TAP’s carry-on policy.

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United Airlines

Notes: All information is for US to Europe flights, economy class.

• First checked bag: Free, up to 50 lbs (23 kg); the exception is Basic Economy which costs $60
• Second checked bag: $100
• Third checked bag: $200
• More information on United Airline’s checked-baggage policy.
• Excess weight: 50-70 lbs (23-32 kg) $200
• Carry-on: One bag, plus one personal item.
• More information on United Airline’s carry-on baggage policy.

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Virgin Atlantic

Notes: All information is for US to Europe flights, economy class.

• First checked bag: Free, up to 50 lbs (23 kg), except for Economy Light which costs $75/£65
• Second checked bag: $100 / £65 at the airport
• Third checked bag: $200 / £140 at the airpor
• More information on Virgin Atlantic’s checked-baggage policy.
• Excess-weight: 50-70 lbs (23-32 kg) $100 to $300/£65 to £200
• Carry-on: One piece, up to 22 lbs (10 kg), along with one personal item.
• More information on Virgin Atlantic’s carry-on baggage policy.

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Want more info on airline baggage fees and policies?

To view even more information on airline baggage policies among domestic carriers, have a look at this handy baggage fee guide from airfarewatchdog.com. Or if you’re looking to research airline fees beyond the world of luggage, try this comprehensive airline fee guide from SmarterTravel.com.

Once you’re ready to research airlines routes within Europe, try our guide to cheap flights in Europe and also be sure to use WhichBudget.com’s helpful cheap flights search engine.

The post Airline baggage fees for US to Europe carriers appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

The tipping culture throughout Europe varies quite a bit from Paris to Amsterdam, and Sweden is no different. And a trip to Stockholm can add up fast if you don’t watch your budget. There are plenty of free museums in Stockholm and some great budget hotels, but everything else, from restaurants to taxis, will be higher than in most places in Europe.

However, knowing how the tipping culture works in Sweden can save you some money in Stockholm and beyond, while still keeping you in the good graces of your host nation.

Swedish tipping etiquette

In Sweden, service charges are almost always included in the bill — and keep in mind that the person waiting on your table at the restaurant is making a living wage without your tips. Of course, no one will be insulted if you leave a tip. Or if you don’t leave one, for that matter.

Understanding the bill

Despite the lack of social stigma towards not tipping, receipts tend to give you the choice. If you paid with a card, you’ll receive your bill with the total amount owed, as well as a couple of empty lines, one to fill in the tip, and one to fill in the final total.

Note: If you are in an upscale restaurant, there might be an extra line to fill in. Don’t. That line is for leaving a tip at the coat check, and unless you are visiting in winter, there tends not to be much coat checking going on.

Tipping in general

In the US, there are plenty of opportunities to tip. Those same opportunities can be found in Sweden, although, tips are not expected. Haircuts (no tip necessary in Sweden), hotels (no tip necessary in Sweden), bathroom attendants (never even seen one in Stockholm, so definitely no tip necessary), and of course, the two most common tipping opportunities – restaurants and taxis.

Tipping for restaurants and bars

Tipping when drinking and dining out has been changing recently. It is still completely acceptable to leave no tip or to only round up. A stor stark (strong beer) for 58 SEK will become 60 and everyone is happy.

However, ask around and you’ll hear that tipping is becoming more and more common in recent years. Not gratuitous tipping by any means, but a 5-10 percent tip is considered good form. Especially if you were pleased with the service.

Tipping for taxis

There are ways to avoid using taxis (public transportation in Stockholm and taking the train from Arlanda Airport, for example), but you may find yourself in a situation where you can’t avoid taking a taxi ride. If you’re traveling with luggage a tip of 10 percent is pretty standard. If you’re traveling without luggage, just round up a few SEK and thank your cab driver.

Stockholm is an expensive city to visit and by no means should you feel obligated to leave a tip. Whether it is for the taxi driver or the bartender, tips are not expected. Instead, save your money and grab another beer or check out just one more museum.

The post Stockholm: When (and when not) to tip in Sweden appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Yikers. The euro bucks disappear faster than you can say adéu in Barcelona. Here are a few tips to make your dinero go a bit further.

1. Eat the Menú del Día.

It’s a set lunch special Monday – Friday for around €10. Your Menú del Día will include, normally, a starter, main dish, a drink, bread and a dessert. This is a stellar deal. Note that this special is not often available on weekends. If a restaurant doesn’t offer a Menú del Día, go somewhere else.

Save some euros using these savvy tips!

2. Buy your own wine.

A glass of wine in a bar = €3.50. A bottle of wine from your local shop = €6. Glasses of wine per bottle = 5. ‘Nuff said.

3. Get the T10.

This is a metro card that lets you take 10 rides and costs just under €10. A single bus ticket is €2, so the savings are clear. If you have a few days in Barcelona, you’ll surely use up your T10.

FYI: The new Hola BCN! metro cards aren’t a very good bargain. You’re better off with the old T10.

4. Get a kitchen.

Stay in a hostal or hotel or apartment with a kitchen and save big bucks on food. Having a kitchen means you can eat breakfast and dinner in, and just have lunch out.

5. Check discount websites.

Websites such as Atrapalo.es (in Spanish) offer deep discounts on theater and concert tickets in Barcelona and Madrid.

The post 5 Easy Ways to Save Money in Barcelona appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Fête du Cinéma

Until July 3

The four-day Fête du Cinéma offers reduced priced admission on new releases in theaters around the city. This year’s 29th edition is an even better deal thanks to a new initiative that has all ticket prices at €3.50. (In previous years you had to buy one ticket at full price to get a discount.)

If you missed this year’s event, next year’s will start on the last Sunday of June and continue until the first Wednesday of July. Or if you’re planning to visit in the spring, catch sister festival Printemps du Cinéma, which has taken place every March since 2000.

Paris Cinéma president Charlotte Rampling and actor Vincent Cassel at the festival’s 2011 final showing. Photo: Yann Caradec.

Paris Cinéma

Until July 9

Paris Cinéma International Film Festival is a low-key, offbeat city-wide event that screens more than 300 films including international premieres, retrospectives and tributes, and hosts movie-themed outdoor and special events like a flea market selling movie-related collectibles on July 6 and 7 in front of MK2 Bibliothèque and “Saturday Night Fever”-themed karaoke.

All films are screened in their original versions, many with English subtitles. General admission is a budget-friendly €5.

Cinéma en plein air

July 24-August 18

An outdoor event at the Parc de la Villette that has been a summer highlight for the last 23 years, Cinéma en plein air screens a selection of international films (all in their original versions, with subtitles) every night except Mondays and Tuesdays between July 24 and August 18 starting at nightfall.

It’s free if you want to just park yourself on the grass; to rent a lawn chair and a blanket is €7, or bring along some friends or family and get 5 lawn chairs/blankets for €20. The full program can be found here.

Cinéma au clair de lune

August 1-11

Watching classic movies shot in Paris under the moonlight in movie-set-worthy Parisian settings like the Place des Vosges, the foot of the Butte Montmartre, the Jardins du Trocadéro or the Esplanade des Invalides is a surreal, romantic summer in Paris experience. The 13th edition of the Cinéma au clair de lune, presented by the Forum des Images, is a surefire antidote to the dog days of Paris in August.

Free admission, no reservations and a limited number of complimentary chairs means that it’s a good idea to get there early, and BYOB (booze and blanket). Screenings may be canceled due to rain. For details on films and screening times, go here.

The post Cheap Summer Film Festivals in Paris appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

While I’ve mentioned some great ideas for ultra-cheap meals in other posts, here’s a look at the cost of everyday items you might want to buy at a grocery store. Most of these can easily be kept in your hotel room and all will save you some some serious moolah. (Also be sure to also check out this post on Barcelona’s grocery stores.)

Foods easily stored in a hotel room that don’t require refrigeration: 

• a bunch of bananas from the Canary Islands (5): €2.70
• a bottle of Raimat wine: €4.45
• a bag of 4 peaches: €1.20 (seasonal)
• mandarin orange juice: €1.02
• bar of chocolate: ¢.82
• large “gordal” olives: €2.50

Let’s say you’ve got a mini fridge in your room:

• a six-pack of Moritz beer, made in Barcelona: €5.
• a can of Coke: ¢.56
• a bottle of white Blume wine: €3.50
• five tomatoes on the vine: €2.02
• a tub of hummus: €1.39
• three herbed goat cheese rolls: €3.75
• can of “bonito,” a sort of tuna fish:€1.82
• a baguette of white bread: ¢.60
• a baguette of homemade, cereal bread: €1.20 (or more)
• pack of 4 yogurts, locally produced: €1.47

Let’s say you can use a kitchen, because you’re staying at a hostel with kitchen access (like the Itaca & Hostel One Paralelo):

• brick of tofu: €2.60
• box of brown rice: €1.85
• large box of Barilla pasta: €2.20
• liter of milk from Catalonia: ¢.84
• strong coffee: €2.90
• pasta sauce in a jar: ¢.84

Perk up!

If you have a kitchen at your hostel, you’ll save big having coffee in every morning. A coffee with milk in a cafe would cost you €1.50 -€2, yet, to do it yourself:

• the entire 250 grams of espresso roast coffee: about €2.80
• a liter of milk ¢.84

Clearly, it adds up fast. If you don’t, I also have some suggestions for cheapo places to grab a good breakfast or brunch.

Do-it-yourself lunch

Also, if lunch out in Barcelona costs €10-€15 a person, it makes good budget sense to buy:

• some noodles: €2.20
• pasta sauce: ¢.84
• bottle of Blume wine: €3.50
• some bread: ¢.60

And now, voila!, you’ve got yourself a respectable lunch for four for about €2 each.

You’re welcome!

The post How much does food cost in Barcelona? appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

What’s going on here? Who exactly is a “Cheapo” in the first place?

Who’s a Cheapo?

When we launched EuroCheapo back in 2001, the site primarily focused on reviewing and recommending one type of hotel. We were looking for properties that were very central, budget-friendly (around €70), and clean. Bonus points if there was a kooky proprietor, funny theme, or great back story.

The Hotel du Nord’s receptionist is a charmer.

These are still my favorite type of hotels to come across, of course. (A great example is the Hotel du Nord in Paris, with its low rates, humorous owner, dog at reception and funky rooms.)

But “cheap” means different things to different people, and the “Hotel du Nord” type of property isn’t appealing to all budget travelers. Over the years we’ve tried to diversify a bit, adding hotels that are a bit cheaper, and some that are a bit more expensive.

We now break down our hotel picks into three categories: Classic Cheapos, Classy Cheapos, and Super Cheapos.

The Hotel Tiquetonne is another “Classic Cheapo.”

Classic Cheapos

The Hotel du Nord is a great example of a “Classic Cheapo.” These tend to be about €65-80 a night in most cities we cover, including Paris. In more expensive cities, like Rome and Venice, we raise that to about €85-90. These are mostly one- and two-star hotels, although some three-star properties qualify.

Another great example of a Classic Cheapo is the Hotel Tiquetonne in Paris, which also happens to be the most popular hotel on our site. The hotel perfectly fits the “Classic Cheapo” formula: It’s old-fashioned, super central (a quick walk to Les Halles and most of central Paris), colorful (interesting décor, funny receptionists), and very clean. A double with a shared bathroom starts at €48, and one with a private bath starts at €62.

Getting “Classy” at the Hotel du Champs du Mars.

Classy Cheapos

Yet other budget travelers consider paying €100 or even €125 a night “cheap.” These travelers are looking for “hotel values,” and most of them probably expect very nice two- or three-star rooms and service.

Nearly as popular as the Tiquetonne in Paris is the more expensive Hotel du Champs de Mars, an example of the comfortable, yet affordable “Classy Cheapo” category. A night at this two-star hotel near the Eiffel Tower isn’t slumming it: Rooms have a “touch of fancy frou-frou” and the private baths offer a nice basket of toiletries. Doubles start at €100 (about $130).

The Hotel Rivoli is simple and “Super Cheapo.”

Super Cheapos

At the lower end of the Cheapo-spectrum are ultra-budget travelers who simply want to find a very inexpensive clean place to sleep. These “Super Cheapos” want a private room in a hotel, and some are open to hostels.

€50 a night next to a train station? Why not? It might share a bathroom, have steep stairs and really old rooms, but it’s super cheap.

Sticking to Paris, one of our most visited hotels is the ultra-central and crazy-cheap Hotel Rivoli, located across the street from the Hotel de Ville. This “Super Cheapo” has rooms with only the basics, and some rooms have private baths, while many share toilets and showers in the hallway. Doubles start at a startlingly low €45 (about $60).

And this is just in Paris. Similar situations, where budget travelers of all stripes share the same site, can be seen in our listings in Amsterdam, London, Rome, Venice and elsewhere.

What kind of a Cheapo are you?

These are just the three types of budget hotels we hunt down for our guides. There are undoubtedly other types that we haven’t considered.

Do you fall into one of these categories, or something else entirely? How much do you commonly spend on a double room? Share with us in our comments section.

Related articles

• How to find the perfect hotel in Paris: Start here for an overview of the city’s hotel scene, choosing a neighborhood, and the difference between star ratings.

• Favorite Paris hotels: Where would we stay in Paris? Here’s our quick cheat sheet.

• Read before you book: 20 things to keep in mind before booking your hotel.

The post Which type of Cheapo are you? appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

We’ve just combed through their posts and have compiled this quick-and-easy guide to 55 ways to save euros in Paris this year. Enjoy the list—and add your own tips, comments and questions at the end!

How much will that second bag cost to check? Photo: Hoyasmeg

Getting There and Arriving

If you’re flying to France from the U.S. and haven’t bought your tickets yet, set up airfare alerts on Web sites like Airfarewatchdog.com. Let them “sniff out” airfare deals for your point of departure.

How many bags can you check on your flight without paying a fee? Two? One? The rules may have changed. Know your baggage allowance before you go.

Once you arrive in Paris, take the RER (regional train) or Roissybus from Charles de Gaulle to central Paris—never a taxi.

Free concerts are held most Sundays at the Eglise Saint-Merri. Photo: Spacejulien

Culture

Enjoy a free Sunday afternoon concert in churches around Paris. Pick up a Pariscope at any newsstand for listings.

During the summer, head to the 19th arrondissement to enjoy an open-air movie every night of the week (except Monday). You’ll get to hang out with locals AND it’s free! (Cinema en Plein Air)

Summertime classical and jazz concerts are only about €5 (or free) in the Bois de Vincennes during the “Classiques au Vert” series.

Score a last-minute ticket to the Comedie Francaise for less than €10. Just show up before showtime and see what’s left (and be flexible–your view may be partially obstructed).

Fill your bottles with spring water from a Wallace Fountain. Photo by Theadora Brack

Daily needs

Buy your water at the supermarket, never from a sidewalk vendor or the hotel.

When your water bottle runs out, fill it up with cool spring water at any of the city’s 108 historic “Wallace Fountains.”

Need to use the bathroom while out and about? Grab a coffee at a café’s counter and then head for the toilet. If the door is locked and it looks like it takes a token, ask at the bar for a “jeton.”

Day trips

Visiting Versailles? Get the “Passport” in advance and save money when visiting the palace, smaller buildings and the gardens. Plus, you get to jump the line, saving loads of time!

When visiting Versailles, pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it outside the gates, along the canal.

Consider other destinations for day trips, including Giverny, Rouen, Chartres and Reims—all reachable by train in under 1 hour 15 minutes and very affordable.

Grab a tasty (and cheap) baguette sandwich for lunch. Photo: Theadora Brack

Leaving Paris for another city several hours away? Choose wisely between trains and planes. Budget flights may look cheaper and faster, but extra charges can add up.

Food

Don’t 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).

Don’t pay for “flat” water in restaurants. All restaurants are legally obliged to bring a carafe of water to your table.

When in a cafe, drink your coffee at the bar and pay about half what you’d be charged at a table.

Opt for Gérard Mulot over Ladurée macarons. They’re equally delicious and photogenic, and, according to many, tastier. Oh, and they’re quite a bit cheaper.

Grab a delicious, fresh and cheapo baguette sandwich for lunch at the boulangerie.

Shop in Paris’ outdoor markets for fresh produce, snacks and lunch. Swing by before they close (usually in the afternoon) to find real deals.

For a cheap lunch, dinner, or late-night snack, grab a crêpe from one of these vendors—but make sure they make it on the spot.

For another cheap meal, eat a falafel, preferably from L’As du Falafel in the Marais.

Know—and love—Paris’ supermarkets. They’re a great resource for snacks, meals, and even souvenirs.

Cheap meals can also be had at flunch, a cafeteria-style restaurant with many locations in central Paris. (We concede, however, that not everyone loves a cafeteria as dearly as we do.)

Ask for a free map in the Metro. Photo: Anniemole

Getting around

Pick up a free Paris map at your hotel’s reception (usually sponsored by Galeries Lafayette or Printemps department stores).

Ask in the Metro for free Metro and bus maps.

When buying Metro tickets, buy a “carnet” of 10 tickets for €12.70, rather than single tickets for €1.70.

Step off the Metro and hop on a bike for (nearly) free using Paris’ Vélib’ bike-share program, now accessible to tourists with American credit cards. (If the machine won’t accept your card, book it online first.)

Taxis are a hassle: They’re expensive and can be very hard to hail at night. Be prepared to walk—or choose a central hotel. Never take a taxi from the airport.

Don’t rent a car in Paris. You’ll have to keep it parked, and garages are very expensive. Rent a car only for leaving town.

Health

Feeling sick? Before you go to a doctor, head into a pharmacy. They’re able to diagnose, prescribe and sell medication for minor illnesses, or point you to a nearby doctor.

Budget Hotels

Which kind of cheapo are you? Find a budget hotel that matches your personality (and budget).

Look for something central, compare rates, and choose your dates wisely. Here’s a list of our favorite cheap hotels.

For cheaper hotel rates, consider visiting Paris in August, when the business travelers are at the beach (along with the Parisians) and rates fall. June and July rates will be more expensive.

Don’t be confused by hotel star ratings—or think that more stars always means a “better” hotel. It could just mean that it doesn’t have an elevator.

Skip breakfast at the hotel—it’s probably overpriced and underwhelming. Head to a nearby cafe instead and enjoy a croissant and coffee at the bar. Or pick up something really fresh at a nearby bakery.

Money Matters

Know how much your bank will charge you to withdraw money from the ATM in Paris. It could be a flat fee (1-3%) a flat rate ($2-5), a combination, or nothing at all (rarely). Also ask your bank what you’ll be charged to use your debit and credit cards for purchases.

Don’t use currency desks to convert cash while traveling, except in emergencies. Even if they say “no fee,” you’ll be paying for it in really bad exchange rates.

Know when to leave a tip in Paris. No: Cafe, bar. Yes: Restaurant, taxi.

Museums

Museums run by the city of Paris are free to visit and generally open every day except Monday. Here’s a list of free museums, plus some additional museums that offer discounts.

Buy a Paris Museum Pass and save on admission to 60 museums and monuments in and around Paris. Not only do you save on admission charges, but you’ll skip all those ticket lines. (2 days: €39; 4 days: €54; 6 days: €69)

Visit the Louvre at night on Wednesday and Fridays, when it’s cheaper, calmer and open until 10 p.m.

Safety

Avoid scams in Paris! Beware of bracelets at Sacre Coeur, dropped rings, and people asking you (and everyone else around) if you speak English.

Find unusual—and cheapo—souvenirs at a flea market. Photo: Theadora Brack

Shopping

Check out the high-end designers selling cheapo-friendly fashions at H&M and Monoprix.

Buy lingerie for bargain rates at the (sometimes hectic) Sympa stores in Montmartre.

To buy something memorable, head to the “friperies,” the second-hand shops selling amazing vintage clothing. It’s usually cheaper than new clothing and far more interesting.

Find a surprising souvenir at one of Paris’ flea-markets. Arrive early, go with a mission and carry cash.

Shop the “soldes”—the biannual sales held in almost every store in France. This summer’s “soldes” dates are June 27 – July 31, 2012.

It’s okay to buy wine at the supermarket.

Buy fun cheapo souvenirs, from vintage clothing to used books. For example, buy a bottle of Dijon mustard from the Maille store in the 8th arrondissement.

Sightseeing

Book your Eiffel Tower tickets in advance—and skip the ticket line. Book up to one day in advance of your trip. This may not save you any euros, but it will save you a lot of time!

Spend a summer afternoon leisurely sipping an aperitif at an outdoor café. It’s a cheapo-friendly way to pass the day.

Take a free walking tour given by knowledgeable guides who work only for a tip at the end.

Staying in touch

Don’t pay for Wi-Fi anywhere. If your hotel doesn’t offer it for free, head to McDonald’s, Starbucks or any one of these places that offer free Wi-Fi in Paris.

If you’re visiting France from the U.S., put your iPhone or smartphone on “airplane mode.” Read our tips for how to set up your smartphone when you travel in Europe.

Your tips?

Do you have a tip to add to our list of ways to save money this summer in Paris? Share it with us in our comments section! And be sure to see other tips from our editors on where to stay during your visit!

The post Paris: 55 ways to save on your trip to Paris in 2012 appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

To avoid hearing me groan when you tell me what you paid for your sandwich, here’s a list of suggested “price ceilings” for some Parisian basics. It’s a good list to keep handy to save a few euros or, you know, if you’re ever a contestant on a French version of “The Price is Right”…

1. Glass of wine

While beer and cocktails can dent the wallet pretty quickly, wine should never be too expensive in a standard café or bar. Avoid the more specialized wine shops and wine bars and opt for a glass of red or white at a more low-key joint. Limit: €4

2. Steak frites

Most cafés and bistrots serve traditional yet affordable French fare. From the well-traveled but enjoyable Chartier to the classic Les Philosophes in the Marais, a cut of meat and frites shouldn’t be a splurge. Limit: €18

3. Walking/bike tour

With multiple free walking tour options, some tourists prefer a private tour to explore the city more intimately. With dozens of choices out there, it’s hard to pick. A walking tour with Oui Paris Tours or a bike tour with Fat Tire is a great, affordable way to get to know the city. Limit: €30

4. Electronics adapter

Many a traveler forgets that outlets and plugs are different in Europe. Souvenir and electronic stores sell adapters to make your chargers fit into the wall outlets, but the cheapest ones can be found at BHV, the all-purpose department store in the Marais. Limit: €10

5. Crepe/Sandwich

Street food can be found everywhere, so prices are competitive. At lunchtime, the choice often comes down to a sandwich or a crepe. For a gooey ham and cheese crepe or a chicken and veggie sandwich, I never worry about having enough money. Limit: €5

6. Clothing

With wintertime approaching, having appropriate socks (ones without holes) seems important. Unprepared visitors often wonder where to get the latest Parisian fashion as they shiver in their tee shirts. Do like the Parisians do and head to the closest H&M or, better yet, to Japanese department store Uniqlo by the Opera Garnier for some good shopping and great site-seeing. Limit: €40 pants, €40 sweater, €3 socks

7. Café

Instead of 7-11 and Dunkin’ Donuts, the French head to the café for a pick-me-up that won’t break the bank. A café (an espresso) may leave some tourists longing for a cup of Joe, but for mere euros you can squat a seat for as long as you’d like. (Tip: Stand at the cafe’s bar for cheaper prices.) Limit: €2

8. Theatre/Opera tickets

If you packed a top hat or a ball gown anticipating a night at the theatre, there is hope. Last minute “rush” tickets for the Opera Garnier and Bastille are extremely affordable if you are patient enough to line up 2-3 hours before the show. Théâtre du Châtelet, which often hosts musicals like Les Misérables and Sweeney Todd, offers rush tickets up until the minute before curtain. Limit: €30

9. Pastry

Unless you’re going to try the trendiest macaron or a French-style cupcake, pastries are a steal in Paris. Bakeries all over the city will serve up the best flaky croissants, lemon tarts, or apple pastries for mere coins. Limit: €3

10. Entrance to a bar/club

If you choose to go to a bar or club on the Champs-Elysées, good luck to you. Personally, I’d never enter a place that made me pay a cover. There are plenty of nightspots on rue de Lappe by the Bastille or in the winding streets of Montmartre that will keep the budget-conscious partier happy.  Limit: €0

What do you think, Cheapos?  What other price limits can you imagine in Paris? Share your own “price ceilings” in our comments section.

Also in our guide: Planning a trip to Paris? Our editors have inspected, reviewed and photographed Paris’ best inexpensive accommodations. We’ve got picks all over town, in the Latin Quarter, near the Louvre, in the Marais and more central neighborhoods.

The post Paris Prices: The maximum we’d pay for everyday items appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Sure, everyday small charges like cafe cremes in Paris (€2-4) and vaporetto rides in Venice (€6.50) do add up and can make a Cheapo panic. However, these are relatively minor charges when compared to the big-ticket items in your budget: flights, hotels, car rentals and train tickets.

Luckily, there are simple steps you can take right now to minimize these big expenses. Some of these tips may be old news to you, bien sur. But even if one tip comes in handy, it could save you a whole wad of euros.

Kayak’s price alert

1. Set up airfare alerts

Haven’t booked your airline tickets yet? Set up airfare alerts to find a flight deal on Web sites like Kayak.com and Airfarewatchdog.com.

On Kayak, do a search for your desired travel dates and then click “Get a price alert” on the left side of the page. Once you register, they’ll email you with daily or weekly airfare deals for your route.

On Airfarewatchdog, “Deal Hounds” sniff out the lowest ticket prices for your route and send similar email updates. On both sites, you stand a much better chance of scoring a deal if your travel dates are flexible.

2. Pack lightly

As we mentioned last week, most transatlantic airlines have introduced ridiculous baggage 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!).

Check out our roundup of airline baggage fees and only check one bag.

The RoissyBus taks passengers from Paris to Charles de Gaulle.

3. Take public transportation to and from the airport

Alas, how many people have we dissuaded from taking a taxi from Charles de Gaulle to their hotel in Paris! 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.

Whether you’re getting from Charles de Gaulle to Paris or Schiphol to Amsterdam, there’s a budget-friendly (and usually quite efficient) way into town that doesn’t involve an expensive taxi. Check out our city guides for more information.

4. Think twice before booking a rail pass

For Americans, the lure of the Eurail Pass is strong. Just reading the descriptions of the passes on their Web site can get you excited and ready to hop on board!

It’s easy to forget that these rail passes are not always a good deal. Sure, they offer some convenience and peace of mind, but they don’t always save you money over simply buying individual point-to-point rail tickets (like the millions of Europeans who take trains daily).

Aboard the Renfe train between Cordoba and Granada. No need for a rail pass.

To find out if a rail pass offers “rail” savings, compare the pass price to the point-to-point ticket prices found on the railways’ official Web site (and not the Web site of a rail pass re-seller).

For much more information on this, read these posts: Read this before you buy a European rail passes; Extra charges for rail pass holders; Deutsche Bahn fares better than rail agents; How to book French rail tickets (in French)

5. Book major train tickets in advance

If booking rail journeys directly with the European railways, like the SNCF (France), Deutsche Bahn (Germany) and Renfe (Spain), book those seats in advance. For long-distance train travel, ticket prices climb as the travel date approaches, so advance booking is essential to getting a deal. Most of these railways release tickets three or four months in advance. (Local trains for small jaunts, however, do not need to be booked in advance.)

For more information, read our post on the “three-month rule.”

The EuroCheapo gang rented this car in Berlin. We weren’t smiling two weeks later when we paid the bill.

6. 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 won’t include the price of gasoline or the tolls you’ll pay on major highways.

Read our quick guide to calculating the real cost of renting a car in Europe. Then weigh those costs against other options, like trains or budget flights.

Then, use EuroCheapo to search and compare car rental quotes from competing agencies.

While you’re at it, know whether or not to buy extra insurance for your car. (And for that matter, know if you should buy travel insurance for your entire trip!)

7. Choose your hotel wisely

Your hotel expenditure will probably be the most expensive part of your trip. Here at EuroCheapo, we’re obsessed with hotel values. That’s why our editors spend so much time snooping around hotels, taking photos and writing reviews. We can tell you that two hotels sitting side-by-side can charge radically different rates for remarkably similar rooms.

The Hotel Tiquetonne in Paris is central, clean and cheap.

When choosing a hotel, consider “losing a star,” downgrading perhaps from a three-star to a two-star hotel. Decide which amenities you require in a room: Do you need a minibar? cable TV? elevator? If you’re open to a simpler hotel, you can save a bundle and you might find the hotel to be more charming, as well.

Also, give careful consideration to the hotel’s location. If you decide upon a hotel located outside the city center in order to save money, will there be an easy and affordable way home at night? We usually opt for simpler hotels near the center, within walking distance of nighttime activities, if possible.

Read our reviews of budget hotels all over Europe and take our advice–we’ve been there!

8. Know what’s for breakfast

This may sound minor, but breakfast is a big business for hotels. Whether or not breakfast is included in your room rate can add a jarring amount to the bill or save you in the end. It’s a tad confusing, too, as breakfast offerings tend to change by city.

These water bottles in Venice are cheaper at the supermarket.

In Paris, for example, most hotels do not include breakfast in the room rate. When you pay for breakfast, you’ll often be disappointed by what’s set down in front of you: a croissant or piece of baguette, butter and jelly, coffee and juice–for about €10. You’d pay about half that if you headed to a neighborhood cafe, stood at the bar and enjoyed breakfast with the locals.

In London, meanwhile, hotels and B&B’s pride themselves in their included breakfasts, which often come with eggs, bacon, sausage, beans and toast. It’s not necessarily healthy, but it’s good for your budget! (It also helps you eat a lighter and cheaper lunch.)

In many cities, hotels sometimes include breakfast in the room rate, depending upon conditions when booking. The only way to really know if it’s included is to check when reserving your room.

There’s another easy way to eat a healthy breakfast and pay a fraction of the price: Head to a neighborhood supermarket after checking into your hotel to pick up the essentials (bottles of water, oranges, bananas, etc.). If your room has a mini-fridge, you could store yogurt, milk or juice. Bon appetit!

9. Be careful with American iPhones

Americans heading to Europe should be careful before powering up their iPhones abroad. AT&T offers various European travel plans, and almost all of them are too expensive to be a serious option for budget travelers.

We recommend leaving your iPhone set to “Airplane Mode” throughout your trip, and only using it when connected to a Wi-Fi network. Read more in our guide to “Using an American iPhone in Europe… without going broke.”

10. Understand bank fees before using your credit cards or an ATM

How much will your bank charge you to use your credit or debit card abroad? How about withdrawing money from an ATM? When’s the last time you checked?

American banks have “adjusted” their fee structures during the past few years, so we’d recommend checking in with your banks before heading to Europe. If you have multiple cards at your disposal, chances are that they’ll charge different foreign transaction fees. Knowing who charges what will save you money in the end.

Read our quick overview to ATM, Debit and Credit Card charges abroad.

Your tips for saving on European travel

What tips do you have for saving on your “big ticket” items when traveling in Europe? Have a question about any of the tips mentioned above? Share your thoughts in our comments section.

The post Cheapo Basics: 10 ways to save on the “big items” in your travel budget appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.