While there are tons of “official” Christmas activities to partake in over the next few weeks, you’ll find that many (like the plethora of ice rinks that have popped up in all corners of the capital) don’t really fit within a Cheapo’s budget. From raising a pint at a cheery pub to taking in the view of the famous Christmas lights on Oxford Street, London is a good place to be for Cheapos.

So here are some foolproof ways to embrace the festive spirit without frittering away your Christmas present budget!

Read more about visiting London:
• Here are the 5 best cheap hotels in Central London
• 10 Free things that will make you fall in love with London
• Follow these 25 tips for a much better trip to London

Christmas in London: Fun activities for less

1. The London pub

A favorite retreat at all times of the year, London’s traditional pubs come into their own at Christmas time. Serving up warming mugs of mulled wine and cider while offering some cozy relief from the bitter cold, make the pub your first port of call. Of particular note is the Churchill Arms in Kensington, which gets into the Christmas spirit with holiday decorations everywhere you look, while our round-up of favorite London pubs is also a good place to start.

Related: Everything you need to know about raising a pint in a British pub

2. Carolers are caroling

Belting out some carols to your heart’s content is a fun way to feel festive and there’s no better place to do it than around Trafalgar Square’s enormous Christmas Tree (an annual gift from Norway to London). Four hours of carol singing takes place daily from December 9 to 24 (except 14 and 22) from 4 to 9 pm on weekdays and 2 to 7 pm on weekends. It’s free to attend but donations are encouraged.

Related: 10 free things to do during winter in London

3. Release your inner child

Whether you have children or not, a trip to Hamleys is a sure-fire way to get into the Christmas spirit. This wonderful toy store, the oldest in the world, buzzes with life and excitement every day of the week but never more so than at Christmas. It has been a Regent Street institution since 1881 but actually started life even earlier, back in 1760. Containing 50,000 toys across seven floors, after a mulled wine in the pub it’s another great pit stop to get some welcome respite from the cold.

4. Light up London

Another free and festive activity is to take in London’s best illuminations and decorations, which you’ll find all over the city. Oxford Street and Regent Street have the biggest light displays, but nearby Carnaby and South Molten Streets, as well as St Christopher’s Place, always boast some truly magical creations. The Christmas tree and decorations in Covent Garden piazza are another must-sees, while you can enjoy the fantastic window displays at classy shops like Harrods, Harvey Nichols, Fortnum & Mason, and Selfridges without having to fork out any cash at all.

Related: How to shop in London without blowing your budget

5. Welcome to Winter Wonderland

Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland has been running for years and while it is a family favorite, it’s also known for big crowds and hefty price tags. The fun runs daily through January 5th, 10 am to 10 pm (closed on December 25th). A few other Christmas activities to take note of are Winter at Southbank Centre and Christmas in Leicester Square with a lively market and shows inside a 1920s spiegeltent.

Have you been to London during the holidays? Let us know your favorite cheap and free things to do at Christmas time!

The post London: Free and cheap things to do for Christmas appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

But all those extra bobbles and balls do not mean you can’t still find some affordable cheer around town.

It’s not too late to book one of the best cheap hotels in Paris and head to the City of Light for a holiday getaway as 2019 turns into 2020.

More Paris budget tips

• Paris on the Cheap: The top 25 free things to do
• A guide to finding the best time of year to visit Paris
• 10 ways to prepare for your Paris vacation

How to celebrate the holiday season in Paris

Have you ever dreamed of visiting Paris in the weeks leading up to Christmas and New Year’s Eve? Here are six easy ways to celebrate in Paris à la Cheapo.

1. Bask in the glow

Through early January, the city’s iconic streets are aglow with holiday lights, Christmas window displays and the sounds of the holidays. Of special note are the trees and lights at Place Vendome (through January 2020) the festive decorations hanging across rue Montorgueil, and of course, the ever-campy but always appreciated displays on the historic Champs-Elysées (November 24 to January 8, 2020).

Ladling up a mulled mug at the Christmas market along the Champs-Elysées. Photo: anniemole

2. Stroll with mulled wine

To appreciate the lights, be sure to grab a cup of hot wine (vin chaud) to go while strolling the streets. The Christmas markets, while selling plenty of trinkets, do manage to provide enough of the sweetened, spiced wine to make them worth a trip. Once the holidays are finished, the wine is still available in most cafés, and is often a bit tastier — and it doesn’t get cold as quickly.

Check out the official Paris tourism website for the 2019 list of markets and holiday activities.

A classic and affordable French dining experience awaits at Chartier. Photo: shufgy

3. Feast for less

Holiday eating in Paris can be tricky because many places close on December 24, 25, and January 1, but diners won’t starve, even on a budget. A simple yet exceedingly affordable meal can be had at old favorite Chartier while those looking to drop a bit more can have a four-course Christmas meal (including Champagne!) at the famed Coupole for €75. Though it may seem steep, it’s a lot cheaper than many holiday menus around town!

Ice skate under the spectacular dome of the Grand Palais. Photo: Le Grand Palais des Glaces Facebook Page

4. Hit the rink

Winter is here, but that doesn’t mean you have to spend all of your time in Paris huddled away. Strap on your skates or rent a pair and hit the largest rink in the world at Le Grand Palais from December 13 to January 8, 2020. You can also skate at the Christmas Market at Champs de Mars right under the Eiffel Tower (through January 2020). If it’s a bit too frigid outside, the Patinoire Pailleron by the Parc de Buttes Chaumont is a bit more tolerable with its indoor rink and costs just a few euros to take hit the ice.

Ring in the New Year with a twinkling Eiffel Tower. Photo: tonyjcase

5. Toast the New Year

Although there haven’t been fireworks for several years in Paris on New Year’s, the Eiffel Tower does offer a lively light show, and the Champs-Elysees is the place to be if you want to join the throngs. Otherwise, don’t expect much more than a Champagne toast at midnight and some rabble-rousers in the streets.

A cake fit for a king. Photo: lesteph

6. …and cut the cake

There is more to look forward to in early 2020. On January 6, the Feast of the Epiphany, you’ll see bakeries decked out with the galette des rois, the frangipane-based cake that ushers in the New Year. A small figurine of the baby Jesus is hiding inside each cake, and French tradition holds that he or she who finds the token in their slice buys next year’s cake.

Did you find the baby? Congratulations! You can start off the New Year in debt — vive la France!

Your tips

Have you been to Paris during the holiday season? Tell us what you like to do during your visit!

The post Paris: 6 ways to celebrate the holidays (without blowing your budget) appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

And these markets are more than just shopping affairs. You can also admire the Christmas trees and decorations, or check out live entertainment (usually including traditional carols and dancing). If you get cold, the tastiest and most practical solution is to order a glass of Glühwein, a delicious mulled wine that will warm you up after a few sips.

Related:
• 10-day itinerary of Germany

7 Best Christmas markets in Bavaria

Ready to hit the holiday markets? Here are seven of our favorite Christmas markets in Bavaria.

Nuremberg Christmas Market

November 29 to December 24
Hours: 10 am – 9 pm (Christmas Eve until 2 pm)

With a history that goes all the way back to 1628, the Nuremberg Christmas Market is one of Germany’s oldest. Don’t leave without trying a famous Nuremberg sausage with a piece of gingerbread for dessert. Browse through hundreds of vendors selling handcrafted gifts including Christmas ornaments. You can also hop on a horse-drawn carriage for a stagecoach ride through the market.

Related: Search through 500 hotels in Nuremberg.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a fairy tale town in Bavaria. Photo: traveljunction

Rothenburg ob der Tauber Reiterlesmarkt

November 11 to December 23
Hours: 11 am to 8 pm

The charming medieval town of Rothenburg has a magical look, making it a wonderful location for a holiday visit. The Rothenburg Christmas Market offers an intimate atmosphere where you can roam the food and gift stalls sparkling with thousands of lights. Snack on a bag of freshly roasted chestnuts or try a traditional Rothenburg Snowball Cake (fried dough covered in powdered sugar).

Don’t miss: Santa Claus makes an appearance at the market every day at 4:30 pm, and is followed by a brass band concert at 5:30 pm.

Ready to go? Search hotels in Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Munich Christmas Market

November 27 to December 24
Hours: 11 pm to 8 pm

Nestled in the heart of Marienplatz, the city’s central square, the Munich Christmas Market is a holiday sight to behold. Featuring more than 160 booths selling vintage Christmas ornaments, hand-painted glass, and Bavarian specialties, Munich’s market traces its origin back to the 14th century. The Christmas tree is lit with over 3,000 tiny lights for a breathtaking scene in the city’s main square.

Don’t leave without trying a cup of homemade berry mulled wine and herb liqueurs.

Need a hotel when visiting the market? Check out our favorite budget hotels in Munich.

Discover a Christmas wonderland under one roof at the Winter Market at Munich Airport. Photo: Ashwin Chandrasekaran

Winter Market at the Munich Airport

November 15 to December 29
11 am to 9 pm (until 10 pm on Friday & Saturdays and 5 pm on Christmas Eve)

How many airports host an annual Christmas market? Welcome to Munich International Airport! Boasting 300 real trees and an ice skating rink under the airport’s roof, the Winter Market at Munich Airport will make you wish for an extended layover. Enjoy live music while you visit 50 market stands to pick up a Bavarian sausage or a special gift for someone back home. Before you flight, warm up with a glass of mulled wine.

Related: While you’re at Munich airport, why not check out the airport’s beer garden?

A festive evening at the Augsburg Christmas Market. Photo: Peter

Augsburg Christmas Market

November 25 to December 25
Hours: 10 am – 8 pm, Sun – Thurs, 10 am – 9:30 pm, Fri – Sat, (Christmas Eve until 2 pm)

Over one million people visit the Augsburg Christmas Market each holiday season to browse through more than 90 booths selling gifts and food. The market features special activities for kids and live entertainment every day.

If you visit on Friday, Saturday, or Sunday, you can see the famous Angel Performance when City Hall transforms into a beautiful Advent calendar with the help of 24 girls from Augsburg playing the part of the angels.

Related: Search for rooms at more than 100 hotels in Augsburg

Do you like mulled wine? Keep an eye out for the word “Glühwein!” Photo George N.

Bamberg Christmas Market

November 26 to December 23
Hours: 9:30 am to 8 pm (Sundays from 11 am to 8 pm)

Stroll the charming streets of Old Town Bamberg to discover a winter wonderland. At the Bamberg Christmas Market, vendors grill bratwurst, roast almonds, and sell traditional lebkuchen (a Christmas treat similar to gingerbread). Highlights include the impressive nativity scene in a half-timbered house that’s part of a nativity trail with over 400 Christmas cribs around the city.

Ready to visit? Search budget-friendly hotels in Bamberg.

Celebrate the Christmas season along the Danube in Vilshofen. Photo: ashchand

Floating Christmas Market in Vilshofen

Scheduled for the first three weekends of Advent, this unique market floats along Danube River on a boat! Pick up Christmas-themed gifts from Bavaria as well as unique crafts from Austria, Slovenia, and Hungary. The Vilshofen market is famous for another reason — the wooden creche scene is the largest of its kind in the world!

Additional German Christmas markets

That’s just a small sampling of the Christmas markets in Bavaria. Other locations hosting Christmas Markets include Passau, Coburg, Landshut, Bayreuth, Dachau, Forchheim, and Würzburg. Check out the full list on the Bavaria Tourism website.

The post Germany: Our 7 favorite Christmas markets in Bavaria appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

To save a few shillings without having to scrimp on the sights, here are our EuroCheapo top tips for first time visitors to London.

1. Walk it.

The center of London is deceptively small. Rather than be the tourist who wastes £4.50 getting from Charing Cross to Embankment on the Tube (when they’re right next to each other on the street), it usually pays to use your feet. You get much better views too.

Marvel at London at its most imposing by walking from Trafalgar Square and National Gallery, down Whitehall and on to the Houses of Parliament and Westminster. Or experience the city’s fun side by exploring the streets of Theater Land around Covent Garden, before wandering over one of the Thames’s bridges to the always-bustling South Bank.

From street performers to hidden parks, there’s a lot more to happen-upon when you’re traveling above ground.

2. Use an Oyster card.

It’s an unrealistic hope to completely avoid public transport in London so make sure that when you use it, you’re using it in the smartest possible way. Get an Oyster card: it slashes your journey costs. (For example, it would reduce the cost of that unnecessary Tube trip from Charing Cross to Embankment to £2.10.)

Additionally, opt to take the most picturesque bus routes rather than paying for sightseeing tours (we recommend the RV1).

And if aquatic is your favorite style of transport, I would recommend the Thames Clipper, which goes from Waterloo to the Dome in North Greenwich, as a great cheapo alternative to a river cruise, costing only £3.90 with your Oyster.

3. Visit free sights and museums.

National Museums are all free and definitely worth factoring into any itinerary. The British Museum, Tate Modern and the National Gallery are the more obvious choices for first time visitors, but it’s also worth saying hello to the dinosaur skeleton hung in the imposing Gothic building of the Natural History Museum, spending an afternoon in Greenwich – a world heritage site – at the National Maritime Museum or learning more about your host city at the Museum of London.

Cheapo tip: If you arrived by Eurostar, it’s worth keeping hold of your ticket: they allow two for one entry into many of the major temporary charging exhibitions.

4. Find special offers in advance.

While the paying attractions will undoubtedly make a dent on your wallet, it’s always worth checking out deals before you turn up. It’s cheaper to go on the London Eye if you book in advance, for example. The same applies to bus and train fares.

And while you’re on the National Rail website, make sure to stop off to look at their two-for-one entry deals to places like Tower of London, the Zoo and Madame Tussauds.

5. Grab a free Time Out.

If the last two tips have both failed you, make sure you pick up a copy of Time Out Magazine for their money saving tips and vouchers. The city’s best listing guide is now given away each week for free. Get the new edition each Tuesday for the latest of what’s going on and their authoritative reviews, as well as cost-cutting advice.

6. Vouchers can make meals much cheaper.

Vouchers are your secret weapon when it comes to eating in London without breaking the bank. UK website Money Saving Expert keeps an up-to-date listing of which restaurant chains are currently running 2 for 1 or money off promotions.

We recommend Pizza Express as a safe bet: it’s got branches throughout the capital, reliable service and food and is part of London’s history: it opened its first branch in Soho’s Wardour Street in 1965. Celebrate your savings with an extra helping of their dough balls.

7. Join a free walking tour.

Take a walking tour to familiarize yourself with the city. While there’s plenty of paying options available, there are some fantastic free walks on offer too. Sandeman’s has a free Central London Royal London tour that will guide you through the city from Anglo-Saxon times.

For contrast, Alternative London runs a pay-what-you-like tour of East London, with an emphasis on its street art and creative scene. Both are great ways to get a flavor of the city and to work out what bits you’d like to spend more time exploring yourself.

8. Avoid peak travel times.

If you have some flexibility with your timings, avoiding peak times for travel in the UK will help with both costs and crowds. These times are mainly Easter, Christmas and the school summer vacation, when you’ll be competing with British families to make the most of London. An enjoyable time to visit would be September and early October, once the schools have gone back and there’s usually some late summer sunshine hanging around.

Between Christmas and New Year can also be a good period for exploring the city: the streets are still looking pretty in their festive decorations but are free of stressed commuters. Just be prepared for bad weather and be willing to spend some of your day hauled up in a cozy pub.

9. Use bathrooms when they’re free.

Public conveniences in London tend to be rather inconvenient. There’s not many bathrooms left for public use and those that remain are often paying. With entrance fee of up to 50 pence per visit, you can spend a lot more than pennies during a day’s sightseeing. Instead, make the most of the bathrooms inside tourist attractions, and in restaurants, bars and pubs.

For when you’re out and about, it’s worth taking note of this excellent toilet map, a mobile-friendly guide to all of London’s public facilities. You’ll never need to be caught short – or short of cash – again.

The view from Alexandra Palace is stunning—and Cheapo! Photo: lo_ise.

10. Enjoy free views of the city.

With a trip on the London Eye costing from £17 upwards (even after your early booking discount), going up the Shard priced at £24.95, and an ascent of the London Orbit in the Olympic Park billed at £15, getting a good view of London can be a costly business. But some of the best views in London are free and a great way for a first time visitor to get their heads around the city.

Head up northwards to Alexandra Palace to see a majestic sweep across all of London, or to Parliament Hill where residents gather with picnics in the summer and celebrate each new year with sparklers. In central London, Monument – 202 feet tall and built to commemorate the Great Fire of London in the seventeenth century – costs only £3 to climb. You’ll even get a souvenir certificate thrown into the price.

Got your own Cheapo tips? Share them in the comment section below.  We’re always looking for ways to save in London! And of course, if you’re looking to save on your accommodation, swing by our guide to budget hotels in London.

The post 10 money saving tips for first-time visitors to London appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Here are 10 ways to get into Holland’s holiday spirit, EuroCheapo-style:

1. Ice skating
Through January 13, 2013

Head to Leidseplein and Museumplein and glide around the real ice rink set up until January 13, 2013. The best time to go is at night, as the holiday lights swirl around as you skate, or hold on to the railing and try not to slip on the little ones (or the locals; Dutch are great ice skaters!). Afterwards, head to the cafes or Christmas stands nearby for powdered sugar poffertjes and hot chocolate.

2. Christmas markets

Unlike Germany, Christmas markets in Amsterdam are a one-day thing. Here are some dates that might coincide with your Holland holiday:

• December 22 and 23: Funky Christmas Market: Everything Christmas to help spread the season spirit at Westergasfabriek.

• December 23: Pure markt again at Park Frankendael.

• Until end of December: Maastricht and Valkenburg are home to ongoing Christmas markets where you can indulge in chestnuts, spiced wine, and Christmas entertainment à la Dutch style.

The big old tree in Dam Square. Photo: martin_vmorris

3. Oh, Christmas trees

Love standing under the glow of a gorgeous holiday tree? Dam Square holds an impressive, merry monster tree that’s great for photos. And the floating flower market will be packed with pretty, peculiar, petite or paunchy pines from start to finish. Shopping streets that surround the “Bloemenmarkt” are Kalverstraat and Leidsestraat – two safe bets for those looking for apparel.

4. Apres Amsterdam

Rembrandtplein hosts a maze of Austrian “apres-ski”-style huts blasting cheerful tunes and offering all the delicious seasonal staples with a Bavarian twist. Warm waffles, sausages, spiced wine and apple cider with a shot of schnapps. It’s got what you need for a fun night fill downtown.

5. Pink Christmas
December 19-31

Throughout Holland, Pink Christmas is the official program for events collectively known as the Winter Gay Pride. Anything and everything is on the agenda, from theater to clubs and ice skating, naked bars to Christmas bingo, erotic exhibitions to a winter Olmypics in drag. Get involved from December 19 to 31.

6. Winter Parade Dinner
December 22 to 26

Amsterdam’s Winter Parade in the Red Light District’s Oude Kerk hosts poets, musicians, actors and dancers who perform literally on a large and long dining table (while you eat!). The show is a three-hour interactive performance where guests get involved with the show as they dine, before leaving the church to begin the winter parade through Amsterdam. It wont’ be the cheapest night out, but for €35 per person you can be a part of a traditional Dutch experience.

7. Winter Parade Watching
December 22 to 26

Don’t want to dish out the dough? Grab some hot drinks to go and watch the parade from the sidelines. The parade itself can be viewed around the perimeter of the Red Light District and Old Center, on the southern end of Dam Square beginning around 8pm. (More information in Dutch, and the route in Dutch.)

All lit up for the Amsterdam Light Festival. Photo: Udo Geisler

8. More saving while shopping
December 23 (and ongoing)

Amsterdam has over 20 outdoor markets, and all hang up festive lights and shift to seasonal offerings of sweet almonds, gingerbread cakes and sugar raisin breads to name a few.

On Sunday, December 23, the popular Albert Cuypmarkt will host the one-day holiday market, but throughout the month you can find small ornaments and Christmas trinkets for a low price and that are easy to pack in your suitcase.

Aside from Albert, Dappermarkt in the East and Ten Katemarkt in the Old West neighborhoods will be your hidden gems for cheapo gifts, from clothes to cute souvenirs.

9. Classic Christmas
December 26

Churches like St. Nicolaas, Nieuwe Kerk and a dozen others offer classical music ensembles and performances throughout the holidays season. Paradiso, one of Amsterdam’s most famous concert venues, will host a holiday hangover cure December 26 with Christmas classics, sing-a-longs, and original music by Paradiso Orchestra.

10. Amsterdam Light Festival
Through January 20, 2013

No Amsterdam Christmas is complete without the Amsterdam Light Festival. Running until January 20, the Amstel River and it’s beautiful houseboats, bridges and canal cruises team up and deck the waterways with a glorious glow. The Boulevard of Light is an enchanting walk along historic buildings between Muntplein and Amstel Hotel.

The post Amsterdam: 10 ways to celebrate the holidays appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

In fact, the weather is usually so good that it’s possible to sit outside with a steaming cup of hot chocolate or mulled wine and watch panicked Romans desperately try to finish their Christmas shopping. Just make sure you pack a warm coat and a scarf (but keep your sunglasses handy).

Here are some more great things to see and do in Rome to get into the holiday mood:

First things first: Take in the Christmas tree at the Colosseum. Photo: Wenzday01

Christmas tree at the Colosseum

An absolute must-see is the enormous Christmas tree currently illuminated in front of the Colosseum. It has been standing tall since early December and adds a fantastic glow to the ancient amphitheater.

Christmas Market in Piazza Navona

The “Mercantino di Natale” (Christmas Market) in Piazza Navona is considered a highlight of the Christmas scene here in Rome. It goes from November 24, 2012 to January 6, 2013, and features market stalls packed with Christmas-related ornaments, goodies and components to create do-it-yourself nativity scenes (“presepi”).

Piazza Navona is especially popular for gifts just before the Epiphany on January 6, which is a religious holiday featuring the Befana, an old witch-type lady who brings gifts to good children and lumps of coal to bad children (Harsh – I know!).

Weekdays: 10:00 am – 1:00 am
Holidays and days before Holidays: 10:00 am – 2:00 am

The Christmas market in Piazza Navona is one of the most visited in Rome. Photo: ianus

Nativity Scenes (“Presepi”)

Nativity scenes are traditionally elaborate in Italian culture, and while Naples is the “home” of the presepi, most Roman churches feature their own presepi during the holiday season. One of the most well-known nativity scenes in Rome is in Santa Maria Maggiore, which dates back to the 13th Century and is said to contain pieces of the original manger.

For people who are really keen on presepi, there is the comprehensive “100 Presepi, a Display of Nativity Scenes from Around the World” exhibition in the Sala del Bramante by Piazza del Popolo (admission charge). Via G. D’Annunzio (Piazza del Popolo)

Of course, a life-size nativity scene is also unveiled every year in St. Peters Square on Christmas Eve (pictured, at top). The presepe is open during the day and night, and is, of course, free.

Attending a mass in St. Peter’s Square. Photo: Trishhhh

Masses in Vatican City

Every year, thousands of visitors from around the globe flock to Saint Peter’s Square on Christmas Eve to watch the Pope on large, outdoor screens say midnight mass in Saint Peter’s Basilica. He also delivers his Christmas message at noon on Christmas Day from a window above the square. Even if you’re not Christian, it is usually a fascinating cultural experience and a definite must if you love people watching.

More Christmas ideas

For more holiday suggestions, check out our previous posts on celebrating the Christmas season in Rome. This post offers some additional markets and details on ice skating in Rome.

Also in our guide: If you’re heading to Rome this holiday season (or anytime, really), be sure to swing by our Rome guide for recommendations on great budget hotels in central Rome.

The post Rome for the Holidays: Christmas markets, nativity scenes and midnight mass appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Indeed, these and (many) more reasons draw multitudes of tourists to New York in December, which can mean packed hotels and higher than normal rates. Luckily for Cheapos, there are some great budget hotel options in the Big Apple, many of which are near some of the city’s top Christmas activities.

Here are five hotels that will put you in the Christmas mood—without spoiling your holiday budget. For many more suggestions, check out our guide to New York’s best cheap hotels.

The Hotel @ Times Square is also quite close to Rockefeller Center.

Near the Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center

The Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center is one of the city’s most iconic holiday sights. Lit by more than 30,000 tiny lights and topped by a Swarovski star, the twinkling showstopper will be all lit up through January 7, 2013. Suggestion for a hotel near Rockefeller Center:

The Hotel @ Times Square
59 West 46th Street
Doubles from $119 a night

Located on 46th street (between 5th and 6th Avenues), less than four blocks from the tree, the three-star Hotel @ Times Square offers clean and comfy rooms with pleasing decor at rates that are great for this part of town. We loved the the hotel’s 19th-century building and period touches downstairs.

The Hotel Wellington is a five-minute walk from Central Park.

Near Wollman ice skating rink in Central Park

For travelers who don’t get nervous and wobbly-legged at the mere sight of ice skates, we’d strongly recommend donning a pair and cutting loose at one of the city’s great outdoor ice rinks. Wollman Rink in Central Park might be the most picturesque, although the rinks at Rockefeller Center and Bryant Park also pack ’em in. For detailed information on hitting the ice, read our guide to ice skating in New York.

A budget hotel pick near the Central Park skating rink:

Wellington Hotel
871 Seventh Avenue at 55th Street
Doubles $125

Boasting a whopping 600 rooms just south of Central Park and its ice skating rink, the decor in the three-star Wellington might be a bit tired, but that location is fabulous and those rates are budget friendly. Some rooms are pretty small, so double-check the square footage before booking.

Chill out in the Stay Hotel's trendy lobby.

Near the department store windows of Fifth Avenue

Taking in the extravagant Christmas windows along Fifth Avenue is another favorite (and cheapo) holiday tradition. Start at Central Park and head south along Fifth, paying special attention to Bergdorf Goodman (at 58th Street), Saks Fifth Avenue (at 49th Street), and Lord & Taylor (at 39th Street).

For more windows to look out for, read our post on the best Christmas windows in New York.

A cheap hotel suggestion near the windows:

Stay Hotel
157 West 47th Street
Doubles from $119

We’re excited about the Stay Hotel, a chic budget boutique hotel that recently opened just north of Times Square (and a very quick walk over to the stores along Fifth Avenue).  The Stay Hotel’s 208 rooms may be small, but they’re very well designed, totally new, and outfitted with artsy touches, like funky lights, cool artwork, and eclectic furnishings. The lobby, too, is tricked out and stylish. Sleep like a fashionista, pay like a Cheapo.

One of the Gershwin Hotel's lounges. The hotel is near both Macy's and the Empire State Building.

Near Macy’s

Once you’ve taken in the windows along Fifth Avenue, keep heading south to 34th and west a block to 6th Avenue, where Macy’s department store dominates Herald Square. The store pulls out all the stops at Christmas, attracting lines of tourists to gaze at its windows, as thousands more pack the store. It never fails to be a buzzing, dizzying and chaotic swirl of Yuletide merriment. (Not for the claustrophobic.)

A cheap hotel pick near Macy’s:

The Gershwin Hotel
7 East 27th Street
Doubles from $109

The two-star Gershwin Hotel is a fun spot, offering 150 rooms in various configurations, from family rooms with private baths to dorms. The hotel’s interior pays homage to the New York of the 1970s, with art installations in the lobby, lounge and hallways. Some, but not all, rooms get in on the act, as well. The Gershwin is located just off 5th Avenue, about a 10-minute walk to Macy’s (and an even shorter walk to the Empire State Building).

The Seafarers and International House is fit for a sailor and priced for a Cheapo.

Near the Union Square holiday market

Heading  further downtown, Union Square entices shoppers to its annual holiday market, open daily between Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve. Dozens of artisans sell handcrafted gift items, clothing, jewelry and other interesting gift items. Stroll the booths, hot cider in hand, and enjoy the downtown holiday scene.

A hotel pick near Union Square:

The Seafarers & International House
123 East 15th Street
Doubles from $104

One of the most popular budget hotels in our New York guide, the Seafarers & International House is a religious-affiliated guesthouse offering 84 bare-bones (but clean and cheap) rooms one block from Union Square. The hotel is run by the Augustana Lutheran mission, and was originally intended as a temporary home for sailors, but is today open to everyone. A great deal.

More cheap sleep options

For more suggestions, check out our editor’s picks in our New York hotel guide.

The post New York City: 5 Budget hotels for the holidays appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Here are six cheap ways to get into the Christmas mood in Paris this year:

1. Walk the sights for free.

From the lights at Place Vendome to the Champs-Elysées, the giant tree at Place de la Concorde, or the windows of the grands magasins, there is no shortage of sightseeing for the holiday seeker. The best bets are to walk the Grands Boulevards to see the lights and decorated windows at the Galeries Lafayette and the Printemps department stores. And heck, while you’re there stop inside to see their trees and holiday pizzazz.

This year’s Christmas tree inside the Galeries Lafayette. Photo: Jason Whittaker

Afterwards, take a stroll through the regal and festive Place de la Vendome on your way to “holiday central” at Place de la Concorde and the markets along the Champs-Elysées. Holiday cheer guaranteed for 0 euros.

2. Take in the Christmas markets.

Take a walk through the famed Christmas markets, inspired by a centuries-old German tradition, and take in the smells of cheesy tartiflette. Or have a sip of inexpensive spicy mulled vin chaud while browsing the oftentimes expensive merchandise. No holiday experience is complete without one, if not more, cups of this delicious hot wine.

For more on this, including market addresses, read my previous post on the best Christmas markets in Paris.

3. Stop for something sweet in the Marais.

To get some more tastes of the holiday season, you’ll need something sweet. Mazet de Montargis, in the Marais, has a variety of festive seasonal candies in addition to their signature almond-based praslines. Look for spiced chocolates and candied chestnuts among their other confections. (37 rue des Archives, 75004)

Shop for something savory (or sweet) at the Bon Marché’s Grand Epicerie. Photo: Antonia Hayes

4. Food shopping at the Bon Marché.

For something savory, think about picking up some foie gras, since this is the time of year when the French consume the most of it.

Consider taking a trip to the Bon Marché, the elegant department store, whose food section (called the “Grand Epicerie”) is a treat for gastronomes from any corner of the world. If you can imagine a food product for purchase, you’ll find it here, including both expensive and affordable treats. And on top of that, the store will be beautifully decorated, so it’s a two-for-one! (24 rue de Sèvres, 75007)

5. Take a spin on the “Grande Roue.”

This is the time of year to ride the Grande Roue, Paris’s enormous Ferris wheel at Place de la Concorde that overlooks the illuminated Champs-Elysées.  It’s open every day until midnight and it’s only €10 for one of the most unique and ephemeral bird’s-eye views of Paris.

Take in great views from the Grande Roue, Paris’ Ferris wheel. Photo: Raissa B.

6. Go ice skating.

For the active, strap on a pair of skates and prepare your best double axel. The ice skating rink at the Hotel de Ville is a staple, and is free to enter with skate rentals only €5.

But this year, the Grand Palais is hosting France’s largest-ever ice skating rink under the gorgeous glass dome. For €12, you’ll get a pair of skates and the chance to glide around until the early evening. For more information, be sure to check the sporadic hours on the Web site.

Also in our guide: If you’re heading to Paris this holiday season, be sure to check out our reviews of the city’s best budget hotels. Our hotel picks have been inspected and approved by our editors. Read more in our Paris hotel guide.

Looking for suggestions on ways to save in Paris? Be sure to read our article on Paris budget tips.

How do you get into the holiday spirit in Paris?

Do you have a favorite holiday tradition in Paris? Share with us (especially if it’s “Cheapo friendly”) in our comments section below.

The post Paris: 6 cheapo ways to catch the Christmas spirit appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

New schedules from December 9

But they are not — at least in many cases. We are in the season when the standard three month advance booking horizon is often curtailed. That’s because many rail operators launch new schedules on December 9 and, until such time as those new timetables are finalized and opened for booking, trains beyond the changeover date remain veiled in secrecy. Imagine all those empty seats, entire empty trains, hidden away in the recesses of reservation systems, but not yet available to book.

When can I book?

Worry not! If you cannot book those Christmas and New Year trains, nobody else can either. It is just a question of patience, and before long all will be revealed. In fact this next week or two will see bookings open in some major markets.

France: For example, bookings for most French domestic services (for travel from December 9) will open next week. October 11 is the start date — bookings open in the early hours of the morning (European time).

Germany: Then just a few days later, Germany follows suit. Bookings for German domestic routes (as well as for many DB international daytime services and all City Night Line overnight trains to, from, or through Germany) will kick off on October 16, again in the wee small hours of the morning.

Spain, Italy, Switzerland and more: Expect bookings for other major European rail operators (such as RENFE, Trenitalia, ÖBB, SBB / CFF and PKP Inter City) to open sometime between mid-October and mid-November. Of course you can already book tickets and seats as normal for journeys up to and including December 8. It is merely those itineraries covered by the new schedules from December 9 that are not yet available for booking.

European Rail News last week published an overview of likely start dates for bookings for journeys on and after December 9.

Already available

There are always a handful of operators who beat the main pack away from the starting gate. Tickets are already on sale for the new timetable period for selected train companies (and that includes the full Christmas and the New Year period). Some services already available for booking include:

– All direct Eurostar services (viz. from London to Brussels, Paris and other destinations in France — including of course Eurostar’s popular ski trains)

– Eurostar tickets to “any Belgian station” (ie. routed via Brussels then onward with SNCB domestic services)

– All Thalys services (for example from Paris to Brussels, Amsterdam, Cologne and Essen)

– Domestic NSB services in Norway

– Domestic SJ services in Sweden

– International services on the route from Sweden to Narvik in northern Norway

– Direct ski trains operated under the Schnee Express or Alpen Expres brands from the Netherlands and northern Germany to Austria

– Daytime services operated by private operator HKX on the Cologne to Hamburg route

The post Christmas and New Year Train Trips: When to book your tickets appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Hey, you’re in Florence, consider this a good thing! Do not waste this unique opportunity to pick up some great souvenirs! Here’s a quick guide to gifts that will fit many a Cheapo budget:

Food & Wine

Why beat around the bush? Your tummy is getting a lot out of this trip and you’d like to share some of the yummy treasures with your loved ones back home. Problem is, a Florentine tripe sandwich doesn’t travel very well.

But, confection food does! Those olives you had with your aperitivo? They were from a glass container! That ball of mozzarella that balloned over your pizza? Comes in sealed plastic! Those sundried tomatoes? They’re, um, dry so they actually travel quite well.

My point is that all these things are purchasable at any of the markets in Florence and come in small travel-friendly packages. Or if you want, do it the “cheapo way” and buy them in a supermarket.

In terms of wine, don’t waste your time. Go straight to the supermarket where a bottle can cost up to 75% less than it does in a specialty shop.

Art

In the good ol’ days, all you had to do was become friends with the local nobility to get Michael or Leo to paint you a little number for your living room. Now, one either has to be an international art thief or an auction prince with deep pockets to score one of those. Bummer.

So we’re stuck with the replicas. Hit the souvenir shops in the Uffizi museum, the Palazzo Strozzi, or any of the other galleries where you just saw a fancy painting to pick up the poster/picture format. For something like movie posters, try the Movie Store on Via Guelfa near the tourist office.

Or, just prance about the little streets in the historic center where you’ll find tons of shops selling prints. Prices vary so don’t be afraid to shop.

Clothing

Now for the third prong in our souvenir trifecta: clothes. If it’s souvenir threads you’re after (i.e. t-shirts with prints of statues on them or sweatshirts with “University of Florence” embroidered onto the front), then the markets will be your best bet. They also carry soccer jerseys, aprons, scarves, hats, just think of something and you’ll probably find it.

Also, don’t forget about Florence’s rich tradition in leather-making. You’ll find small shops all over the place that carry these goods. Sandals, purses, wallets all make great souvenirs. Some are pricey, some aren’t. A wallet can cost as little as €5 and a purse, €20.

Last Chance: Airport

Oops, you’re just about to board the plane and forgot one last cost center from your list that’s souvenir worthy. Fortunately, there are a few shops in the airport that carry food, wine and clothing. But of course, these will be more expensive.

Whatever you do, don’t snatch the blanket from the plane to give to your uncle. Seriously, don’t.

Also in our guide: Looking for hotels that fit your Cheapo budget? You’re in luck! Our editors have visited, inspected and reviewed the best cheap hotels in Florence, all centrally located. Read more in our Florence guide.

The post Florence: Cheap souvenir ideas for everyone on your list appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.