Renting a car will get you to little villages, mountains, secluded beaches, and vineyards you’d never see otherwise. Many of the best jaunts I’ve been on in Spain have been by car. Getting wheels is worth the effort it takes.

Related: Calculating the real cost of renting a car in Europe

Tips for Saving on rental cars in Spain

Before you go online to book your vehicle in cities like Barcelona, Madrid, or Seville, and hit the road, take a little time to read through these tips. Over the years I’ve taken many jaunts from Barcelona by rental car, and I’ve learned a thing or two about driving and keeping your rental experience hassle-free. Here are my top tips, many of which are applicable to renting a car throughout Europe.

1. Check your license

Always check with the rental car agency beforehand to make sure you have the right documents for driving on Spanish roads. For Americans, agencies usually only require a valid passport (that means within the six month travel period allotted to Americans for travel in Europe) and a driver’s license.

I have never been asked for an international driver’s license when renting a car, so I have never bothered to get one. However, it’s better to be safe than sorry, and it is recommended that you get one. You can learn about the International Driver’s License on this website.

2. Find a good deal

I have rented from many different companies in Spain and have had a range of good and bad experiences. The main takeaway is that if it looks too good (or too cheap) to be true, then it probably is. Like the cheapo airlines that will nickel and dime you for every pound of luggage and every inch of legroom, many cheapo rental car companies will hit your wallet for gas, mileage, insurance, and additional drivers.

I have ended up spending much more than I expected to at super budget companies. In the end, I stopped using them and decided to pay more in advance for a better product and less hassle. Check out EuroCheapo’s rental car search to check current prices from a wide variety of companies in Spain.

3. Read the small print and sign off on the dents and scratches

This car rental tip could be applied to many aspects of your trip. Make sure you know all of the extra charges (including unfilled tank charges!) before you sign on the dotted line. If there’s a certain type of car you want, be sure to ask for it. Be assertive and ask now.

At the rental counter, they usually give you a piece of paper that includes a small illustration of a car. Often, especially with city rentals, you’ll have to go outside and find your rental car in a big parking garage, and there may not be anyone there to help you. Insist that someone go with you or meet you in the garage to go over any flaws that the car has on the interior and exterior. Mark all these flaws, even the small ones, on the documents that you got at the rental counter, carefully marking the dents and scratches on the diagram of the car. This may sound excessive, but being thorough could save you a lot of money. The rental company’s representative will have to sign off on all the flaws you identify.

Don’t be embarrassed if it takes you a few times around to find your exit. Photo: BJK

4. Roundabout advice

Depending on where you’re from, you may or may not be familiar with roundabouts. These circular intersections have replaced many crossroads and four-way stops in Spain. Some roundabouts consist of four lanes and can be daunting to merge into and out of. Slow down when entering, but you’ll only need to come to a full stop if you’re waiting for traffic to pass by. Otherwise, gracefully enter and wind around to your desired exit.

Another perk is that roundabouts give you additional time to figure out where you’re going. Not sure which turn off to take? Just keep circling the roundabout until you find the right road! I’ve been known to loop around three times before sorting out the right direction.

5. Pay a bit to save time on toll roads

In Catalonia many of the highways are toll roads, and many of them are not cheap. Expect to pay from €0.45 to €10 for access to these roads. Tunnels also usually collect a hefty toll. You can avoid the toll roads, but more often than not, this will add on to your travel time, and you’ll be faced with more traffic and more roundabouts.

Depending on how far you have to go and how much time you have, it may be better to suck it up and pay for the toll roads. Most toll booths will accept both credit cards and cash. While tolls are very common in Catalonia, other regions of Spain have fewer tolls or no tolls at all.

6. Hide all valuables from sight

Always lock your doors, and do not leave your suitcase, purse, camera bag, or anything else of value in plain sight in your parked rental car. Put everything that could be tempting to an unsavory character out of sight in the trunk. If it’s really valuable, you probably just want to take it with you. This is especially important in big cities like Barcelona and Madrid, but applies to smaller towns as well.

If you don’t drive stick shift, expect to pay a lot more. Photo: LenDog64

7. Be prepared to pay more for automatic transition

Most rental cars in Spain (and throughout Europe) are equipped with manual transmission, and most Spaniards know how to drive a stick shift car. Automatic cars are the exception, not the rule, and you may have to pay hundreds of euros more to rent one.

If you really want to rent an automatic, then look around and compare prices. Make sure to reserve an automatic far in advance, because many companies have a limited supply, especially in the high season when Americans come in droves.

8. Choose your parking spot wisely

It is not easy to park in Barcelona or Madrid. Parking spots are scarce, and when you do find one, you need to determine if it is a public parking space or only open to those living in the neighborhood. I made the mistake of parking in a spot I thought was public parking only to find my rental car towed; €250 later I had learned my lesson. In some small villages you will be able to park just about anywhere and won’t have to pay a cent. This is especially true in the countryside. When in doubt, check with a local to make sure you’re not parking in front of someone’s gate or doorway.

If you are unsure about what the rules are or where you can park, the best bet is to put your ride in a garage and pay a bit more. Your car will most likely be safer in a garage, and will definitely be there when you return. There are parking garages everywhere in cities and larger towns.

9. Be careful on the road

Generally speaking, driving in Spain is not much different than in the rest of Europe or North America. The laws and road signs are similar. Mostly, roads are well marked and freeways are well maintained. Drivers can be aggressive and tailgating is common, and for many locals, turn signals seem like more of a suggestion than a requirement. If you feel stressed or overwhelmed at any point on the road in Spain, just slow down; the guy behind you may not like it, but he can pass.

I’ve driven all over Spain and by far the fastest drivers I’ve encountered were on the island of Tenerife. I’m not sure what it is about island life that makes these locals put the pedal to the metal, but they certainly seem to be in a hurry.

10. Don’t forget to fill ’er up (with the right fuel!)

Gas is self-service in Spain. You pay inside or at the pump with either a credit card or cash. It’s pretty straightforward and very similar to what you’re probably used back home. Just make sure to fill up with right kind of fuel. You really don’t want to put unleaded gas into a diesel car. Trust us!

Your tips for driving in Spain?

Have you rented a car in Spain? Tell us what companies you like, what tips you used to find a good deal, or your favorite road trips!

The post 10 tips for renting and driving a car in Spain appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

But what do you need to know about driving in Portugal before you hop in your rental and hit the road? To stay safe and on the right side of the law during your time in Portugal, consider the tips below.

Related
• How to save on your rental car in Portugal
• 10-day budget itinerary to Portugal
• 10 ways to save on your trip to Portugal

Portugal driving tips

1. Get an International driver’s license before your trip

Consider getting an international driver’s license before you arrive. While most rental companies don’t require one for U.S. drivers license holders, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

2. Be smart about parking

Be careful about where and how you park your car in Portugal. Locals aren’t an example to follow — leaving your car running with emergency lights in a no-parking zone won’t save you from a ticket. Also, when parking roadside, always be sure to park in the same direction as traffic.

3. Protect your car and valuables

Lock the car when you park and secure your valuables in the trunk. Even if you’re just stopping off for a moment to get a picture of an amazing view along the way. Portugal isn’t dangerous but petty theft is unfortunately quite common. Don’t make yourself an easy target.

4. Lost? Don’t panic.

Be prepared to get a little lost when driving around Portugal. The trick is staying calm and being prepared. Be sure to bring a paper map, and either rent a GPS with your vehicle or use Google Maps on your smartphone or tablet — learn how to switch out your US sim card with a local sim card.

5. Keep an eye out for gas stations

Fill up whenever you see a station — running out of gas in a foreign country is even less fun than it is at home (even if it has the makings of a great story to tell at dinner parties). And be sure to fill up with the right fuel. Learn the name of the type of fuel your car uses in Portuguese.

Note: Diesel is “gasóleo” (or “diesel”) and unleaded gasoline is “gasolina.”

6. Don’t speed

Follow the speed limit, even if the rest of traffic is speeding along over the limit. In Portugal, there are flashing orange speed traffic lights that operate using a sensor, and if you’re over the limit (or the person in front of you is), they’ll turn red and you’ll have to stop.

7. Put that smartphone down

Don’t use a cell phone while driving unless it’s hands-free. It’s illegal, unsafe and could get you a big fine.

8. Use turn signals (even if others don’t)

Turn signals might seem to you to be optional in Portugal — which doesn’t mean you shouldn’t use them, just that you can’t expect other drivers to do so. So give yourself a little extra distance between you and the car ahead of you, and pay close attention so you can brake hard when the person in front of makes an unexpected turn or maneuver.

9. Watch it on the sharp turns and ramps

On and off ramps are usually very short — you’ll want to slow down a little before you exit the main road or highway you’re on.

Your Portugal driving tips

Have some driving tips to add to our list? Leave them in the comments section below!

The post Portugal Driving Tips: How to stay safe and legal when driving in Portugal appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

But what’s the best way to see it all? We love the bus and train, but renting a car in Portugal is an easy and cost-effective way to get around the country. If you’re traveling in a group of two or more, or would just like more flexibility when it comes to where, how, and when you travel inside Portugal, renting a car is probably your best option. And before you hit the road, check our tips for staying safe on the road in Portugal.

So here are some of our best tips on how to get the best value on your car rental.

Related:

• Search rental cars in Europe
• How to calculate the “real cost” of your rental car
• 10 Ways to save on a trip to Portugal
• 10 Days in Portugal: A budget trip to Lisbon, Porto & Braga

How to save on your rental car in Portugal

To get the best possible deal on a vehicle rental in Portugal, here are a few things you should always keep in mind:

1. Always book ahead with a reputable agency.

Booking directly after you’ve arrived in Porto or Lisbon will almost always cost you substantially more than if you make a reservation ahead of time online. Waiting until the last minute usually means less competition, as agencies run out of cars and prices go up.

2. Compare prices carefully

Compare rates closely between different rental car agencies. When you search for car rentals on EuroCheapo, be sure to look at the details, not just the prices. Do they have free cancellation? Mileage limits? Other small print items?

3. Be careful of super cheap deals

Related to the last point, don’t book a deal that seems too good to be true — it probably is and has all sorts of additional fees. To figure out which deal is the best deal when every offer includes different things use our Car Rental Cost Calculator.

Inspect that car before you drive away from the lot. Photo: patrick janicek

4. Double check the car before you hit the road

At the rental agency, carefully examine the car and have an employee at the rental agency sign off on any existing damage (scratches, dents) before you drive off into the sunset. Same goes for returning the car — make sure an employee signs off that you’ve returned the car in good condition before you leave the car at the end of your trip.

5. Get a toll reader

Speed up your trip by springing for a “Via Verde” toll reader. The rental agency has to offer them and it’s worth avoiding the fuss of paying tolls manually and will save you time on the road — you’ll be able to breeze through the Via Verde line instead of hoarding exact change to pay tolls.

6. Check your insurance

Make sure you book a good travel insurance policy, but don’t pay for coverage that you already have. A good policy should cover any excess in case of an accident not covered by the regular rental insurance (which can be as much as $1,000 or more). That way you won’t have to spring for the extra insurance to cover excess for collisions — it’s very expensive and can double your rental bill.

7. Use a credit card with plenty of available credit

Use a credit card (not a debit or bank card) with enough credit available to cover the excess temporary charges — some rental companies will place a hold on your card until you return the car in good condition.

8. Save gas by renting a smaller car

Go with a mini or economy car — they’re cheaper to rent and will save you money on fuel.

9. Upgrade with caution.

Americans take note: Rental car agencies in Portugal and around Europe have a funny tendency to offer American clients free upgrades to larger cars. This is often because they can’t get rid of them! Take the upgrade with caution: Really large cars will not only cost more for gas, but will be trickier to navigate through tiny European streets and alleyways. Upgrade with caution.

10. Plan to return your car on a weekday

Don’t expect to return or pick up a car on Saturday afternoons or Sundays in smaller towns. Apart from those located in major airports, most rental offices are closed Saturdays after 1 pm and Sundays all day.

A final note on booking

Whichever rental agency you book your car through in Portugal, expect to pay more for an automatic transmission. You’ll also have to shell out more if the driver is 25 years old or younger.

Ready to ride? Search cars throughout Europe now.

The post Portugal Rental Cars: How to save on your rental car appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Note: This article is part of our budget travel guide to Iceland.

Know your travel dates? Search for rental cars on EuroCheapo.

Driving the Ring Road

Traversing the nation on the famous Ring Road takes you across 800 miles of unbelievable landscape. Many people plan at least seven days to get around the island, but depending on the weather and road conditions, it can take even longer if you really want to stop and see the sights.

However, an Icelandic road trip like this will quickly leave cheapo territory with the high gas prices. If you choose to rent a car and camp along the way, that can be an affordable option, but it still comes with its own challenges. However, a car offers the freedom to explore one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Even if you rent a car for one day, you can cover a lot of territory outside of Reykjavik to get a true feel of Iceland.

Note: Driving in Iceland brings many challenges, so make sure to read up on road rules, weather conditions, and what kind of car you should rent before getting behind the wheel. Visit Iceland has a handy guide to driving in Iceland.

Driving through the stunning landscape of Iceland. Photo Michael C.

Other cities within driving distance of Reykjavik

It’s not all about Reykjavik, of course. Other cities and towns worth a visit are:

• Akureyri (4.5 hours from Reykjavik; search for hotels) for skiing, Northern Lights, and whale watching

• Stykkishólmur (2 hours from Reykjavik; search for hotels) offers historic architecture, fishing, and a volcano museum.

• Selfoss is a lovely 45-minute drive through the Hellisheidi Highlands that offers dramatic scenery that you usually only get on a longer tour (search for hotels). Check out the public pool and eat at either Kaffi Krús or the superb Thai restaurant Menam.

• Eyrarbakki and Stokkseyri are both situated along the scenic rocky coast about 45 minutes away from Reykjavik. Eyrarbakki features a maritime museum and excellent bird watching, while Stokkseyri has a popular seafood restaurant,Fjörubordid.

Discover the different regions of Iceland in more detail.

Our guide to budget travel in Iceland

Read more in our guide to saving in Iceland:

• Airfare: Finding cheap flights from the US
• When to go to Iceland
• Budget hotels in Reykjavik
• Bus tours from Reykjavik
• Budget tips for visiting Reykjavik
• Saving on restaurants, bars and nightlife in Reykjavik

The post Save on renting a car in Iceland appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

However, before you head to Germany, hop in a car, and head for the nearest highway, there are a few things you should know about autobahn driving. Below we’ve gathered the most important tips.

Related: Search for affordable rental cars in Germany and all over Europe

1. The same Autobahn can have different names

Each Autobahn in Germany has several different names. For example, Bundesautobahn 5 is also called “BAB 5”, while Autobahn 5 is also called “A 5”. On the road, you will only see the number listed in a blue square.

To make matters a bit more confusing, the A 5 is also part of the E 35, E 40, E 52, E 54, and E 45 (the “E” designates an international European route). The longest of these, the E 40, is 4,971 miles long and crosses through France, Belgium, Poland, Germany, Ukraine, and Russia.

Although you may not feel up to driving the whole distance (though who knows?), it’s still important to know the E 40 and A 5 are the same route when driving in Germany, otherwise the signs can get confusing. The good news: Unlike several of the countries listed in European route 40, you never have to pay to drive on the German Autobahn.

Related: 10-Day itinerary through Germany: Berlin, Potsdam, Hamburg, Munich and Neuschwanstein

This sign shows speed limits in the city and a recommended 130 speed limit on the highway. Photo: Jo.

2. Yes, you really can (almost) always drive as fast as you want

The German Autobahn is famous for its lack of a speed limit, and you really can drive as fast as you want (or as fast as your car can handle). But not always. Occasionally a speed limit is posted — usually 80, 100 or 120 km per hour — in a white circle with a red border. Speed limits are mostly posted around cities or are due to dangerous road conditions (windy mountain roads, around construction sites, etc.).

When a speed limit appears, there are sometimes automated roadside radar photo devices that measure your speed and take your photograph if you’re over the limit — Germans call it getting geblitzed (flashed) because of the bright white light from the camera flash. When you get geblitzed, you can expect a ticket in the mail within the next six weeks (and yes, even for rental cars). The amount varies depending on how much you were speeding, but in most cases it will still be under €100.

On the Autobahn you will also sometimes see square blue signs with “130” written in white letters. These signs are a reminder that 130 km per hour (80 mph) is the “recommended” national speed limit. But, unless an actual speed limit is posted, people can–and certainly will–be driving faster.

3. Driving “as fast as you want” isn’t always what it’s cracked up to be

Many German Autobahns have only two lanes. What this means is you’ll usually either be stuck in the right lane with the big trucks and campers or be in the left lane… with a Porsche or BMW sports car constantly on your tail, aggressively making it clear they want you out of the way.

In other words, it’s not always an easy cruising experience. Driving the Autobahn can at times be pretty stressful.

4. Cruise the Autobahn on Sundays for a less stressful drive

If you just want to get a feel for what it’s like to drive on the Autobahn, we suggest you go for a drive on Sundays. On Sundays, big trucks are not allowed to drive on the Autobahn, so if you do (inevitably) get some speedster on your tail in the left lane, at least the right lane will be a more pleasant driving experience.

5. Sometimes you can’t drive at all

It’s not uncommon for the Autobahn to be backed up with traffic jams for miles and miles. Although this is sometimes due to accidents, it is more likely caused by construction sites.

While a popular German stereotype portrays them as a very efficient bunch, it could also be argued that they tend to make things far more complicated (and even stressful!) than necessary. This definitely holds true when it comes to Autobahn construction. From the spring to the fall, entire stretches are (sometimes inexplicably) blocked off for miles and miles, causing major delays. Nine times out of ten, when you drive by, you’ll never actually see anyone working, giving rise to the rumor they only set up the construction sites to annoy as many drivers as possible.

Related: 10-Day itinerary through Germany: Berlin, Potsdam, Hamburg, Munich and Neuschwanstein

6. Avoid holidays and vacation weeks

To avoid traffic jams, you should also be aware of any school holidays in the area. German schools have fall vacation (two weeks in October), Christmas vacation (ten days over Christmas and New Years), winter vacation (one week in February), Easter vacation (two weeks over Easter), and summer vacation (six weeks).

If you’re traveling during any of these times, you should avoid taking the Autobahn on either the first or last weekend during the school holidays, as it’s guaranteed to be packed. Since the starting dates vary from state to state, it’s best to check the schedule in the area you’re visiting (here’s a list of school vacation dates).

Cruising at high speeds along the Autobahn. Photo: beigephotos

7. It’s illegal to pass on the right

Most rules of the Autobahn are the same as driving in the United States (e.g., use your turn signal, slower traffic stays to the right, etc.). However, it is important to know that it is illegal to pass a vehicle on the right side.

In order to pass, you must always first move into the left lane — otherwise, it is verboten — and potentially very dangerous, since no one will be expecting it. The only exception to this rule is when traffic is moving at a very slow speed, such as during a traffic jam.

8. Get off the Autobahn for more scenic driving

Although a drive along the Autobahn is definitely an interesting experience for any tourist, if you’re not in a hurry, it might be a better idea to stick with a more scenic route along the Landstrassen or Kreisstrasse. Kreisstrasse are smaller, rural roads while Landstrassen are usually busier.

Both of these types of roads will take you through the countryside and towns. Unlike Autobahns, both have a marked speed limit, usually 80 or 100 km per hour (around 50 to 60 miles per hour). Not exactly for speed demons, but you will get to see more of the country and, in the end, you may just feel 60 miles per hour is fast enough after all!

Search for rental cars

Know your travel dates? Search for rental cars in Germany now and compare rates between car agencies throughout Germany to find the best deal.

The post Germany: 8 Tips for driving the Autobahn appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Renting a car allows you complete control over your itinerary, and permits you to visit smaller towns, tiny villages, and out-of-the-way wineries.

This freedom can come at a cost, of course, especially if you’re not aware of some the basic rules. But with proper planning, you can rent with confidence that you’re getting a great deal. Read on!

Related: 50 ways to save on your trip to France

Rental car tips for France

1. Book cars early for the best deals

As with train tickets, booking early is a safe bet for finding the best car rental prices. As you get closer to your travel date, availability dwindles and prices get more expensive. (Search for your dates and compare car rental agencies.)

2. Cancel your reservation if you find a better deal

Nearly all car rentals are modifiable and able to be canceled. Thus, once you book it, monitor prices. See something cheaper with another agency? Cancel your car reservation and book it!

3. Be careful with your start date!

Your car reservation won’t necessarily start on the first day of your trip. If, for example, you’re flying into Paris and spending a couple of days in the city before driving off to Normandy — start your car reservation on the day you leave town for Normandy, not the day you arrive in Paris. You won’t be driving around Paris, trust us! You’ll be wasting money on those extra days, and paying for a parking garage!

Related: Tips for visiting the iconic Beaches of Normandy

Cars in France come in all shapes and sizes. Photo: Daniel X. O’Neil

4. Be smart about auto insurance

Call your insurance company back home and your credit card company to confirm auto coverage before heading over. In many cases you’ll be covered — but be prepared to receive the hard sell when you pick up your car. They may also place a hold on your credit card as a guarantee if you don’t take out any additional car insurance.

5. Be wary of free upgrades

Here’s the scenario that we often face when renting a car in France: The representative at the rental agency smiles at us and informs us that they’ve upgraded us to a nicer, roomier car. Great, right?

Well… There’s a reason that the locals tend to drive small cars. Gas is expensive. Streets are tiny and parking spots can be smaller still. And rental car companies tend to think that every American arriving at their counter desires a giant tank of a car. Unless that’s you, feel free to just say, “non, merci”, and stand your ground.

Driving tips for France

6. Watch your speed

When driving around France, pay attention to the posted speed limits, as well as to the “speed camera” signs. In France, the police usually don’t bother pulling you over for speeding — they just send your tickets to your home… or your rental car company. And yes, you will be charged.

7. Careful at the roundabout

Driving in France is fun, partially because municipalities have replaced many traffic lights with traffic roundabouts. While these keep you moving, they can also be a bit dangerous for foreign drivers not accustomed to them. Avoid tickets and accidents: When approaching a roundabout, you do not have priority — wait until the coast is clear before entering.

8. Avoid driving in the “centre ville”

Most tourist-friendly towns in France have popular pedestrian-only center cities (“centre ville”). Only locals and delivery trucks can drive here. Don’t be the car that wanders off course and winds up along a pedestrian-only cafe-lined street. It could cost (or really embarrass) you.

Parking between the vines at a winery in Villandry. Photo: Peter D

9. Parking is expensive in the center

As you won’t be able to drive in the center city, you’ll spot underground parking garages all over the place. Most garages will note the number of free spots with a green “Libre” (available) sign. Center city garages, of course, will be the most expensive. If possible, we’d recommend parking farther outside the center at a cheaper garage, and walking or taking transit into the center.

10. Autoroutes can be expensive

The country’s network of “autoroutes” allows you speed along at a clip, but be aware that these roads (all named with an “A”) are “payant” (have tolls), and those tolls can be expensive! A slower, cheapo alternative are the national roads, named with an “N”. These tend to be more scenic, as well. And if you want to get really scenic (and don’t mind really slowing down), you could opt for the “départementale” roads, named with a “D”.

Search now

Ready to compare prices on car rentals? Search for your dates now, and compare rates between top rental agencies in France.

The post Renting a car in France: 10 tips for saving on car rentals appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Driving in Barcelona is about as fun as a root canal. There’s traffic. There’s no right on red and pedestrians jump out at every turn, sprinting across the road. And of course, scooter riders weave between cars with an insane amount of confidence.

One must remain calm to drive in Barcelona and know some simple rules of the road.

Some of the most important rules involve parking. You can’t just park your ride anywhere in the city, in fact there many zones where you may not be allowed at all.

Green Zone “Exclusiva”

The Green Zone “Exclusiva” for example, is only for people living in that area. They have a special tag and pay .10 cents a day or so. One neighborhood that has this “Exclusiva” Green Zone is the beach barri, La Barceloneta. If you find yourself in a Green Zone “Exclusiva” then you’ll need to park your Smartcar in a parking garage, which, let me warn you, will not be cheap.

Some Green Zones are “Preferente,” which means that anyone can park there but rates will be high. Expect to pay about €1-2 per half hour.

Mostly I don’t drive in Barcelona but a few years ago I rented a car to go out of town. I parked the car in a Green Zone “Exclusiva” and went to get my suitcase from my apartment. When I returned my car was gone, and in its place was a small green diamond sticker with the phone number of the tow truck company on it. Yes, my car had been towed. This mistake cost me a lot of time, not to mention the €250 or more I had to cough up to get the car out. Thank gawd I had a credit card!

The moral of this story is: Do not park in the Green Zone “Exclusiva” and pay attention to what zone you’re in. (To be fair, I had no idea at the time that the Green Zone was off limits to me.)

Blue Zone

The Blue Zone is found around the city and is open to all. Sometimes the Blue Zone will be free on Saturday afternoons or Sundays. Other times you’ll have to pay no matter what day it is (such is the case by the beach). You can park in the Blue Zone as long as you pay the meter and then put the little paid meter ticket on your windshield.

Many central neighborhoods of interest in the city are Blue Zone. Expect to pay about €1 per 30 minutes.

However, just because there is Blue Zone does not mean that you will ever find a parking spot. You may have to drive around a lot and if you’re not familiar with the city then this could be a bit stressful and a hassle.

Parking lots and garages

The best bet is to to put your car in a car park. Make sure you check to see what time the garage opens and closes, and whether they will close for lunch.

Saba is one company which has parking garages all over the city. On the Saba Web site you can check a map of where their garages are located. Saba’s per-minute rate is €0.04 and a night will set you back €56.99.

At such steep rates it pays to ask your hotel about parking options. Hotels in Barcelona usually charge for parking but it won’t be €50.

Overall, avoid having to drive and park in Barcelona; it’s a pain. If you must then the easiest, albeit most expensive option, is a parking garage. Follow the giant “P” (usually in blue) anywhere in the city to nearby parking garages. Good luck!

Your Barcelona parking story

Do you have a story about parking in Barcelona? Share with us in our comments section!

The post Parking in Barcelona: Green and blue zones, and parking garages appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

The Danger Duomo

The first area to go completely car-free was the ring around the Duomo. It seems ludicrous in retrospect, but just two years ago the snaking lines of church-goers ran the risk of “attack by speeding car.” But not anymore. The entire Duomo ring is now carless and harmless. But do keep an eye out for the bicycles, horses and determined stroller-pushing nonnas.

Okay, that’s great. But what about the rest of the monuments (or monumental walking hazards)? Well, it’s just been announced that as of June 24, 2011, the following parts of the city will be completely car free! (Click here for a map of the city’s new pedestrian zones.)

Palazzo [“it’s a”] Pitti there are so many cars

Remember the good old days of getting clipped by the mirrors of passing vehicles while walking from Ponte Vecchio to Palazzo Pitti? Ah, the nostalgia of injuries past.

Okay, it never happened but now it surely never will because the entire Piazza de’ Pitti area will soon be traffic free. That includes that congested 5 inch-wide deathtrap of a sidewalk all the way from Ponte Vecchio to Palazzo Pitti. (But please, hold your applause until the end.)

Shopping Sanctuary

Florence, city of fashion, has a street called Via Tornabuoni where you’ll find the shops of style sultans such as Gucci, Prada and Emporio Armani.

And soon, that little strip of garment pedigree just off Palazzo Strozzi will be – wait for it, wait for it – traffic free! Just imagine meandering with a gelato in your hand and gazing through the windows of fashion greatness with only the sounds of ringing cash registers echoing through the street. Sounds about right, doesn’t it?

Be the best pedestrian you can be

In Italy, two pedestrians per day are killed by cars. This is a place where even motorcyclists use their mobile phones when they drive. Be careful!

Sidewalks are notoriously narrow which makes walking in the street a common habit. Italian drivers may be very good at slalom but still, make use of your peripheral vision!

The post Florence’s New Pedestrian Zones: Where you can put your foot down appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

But never fear, here’s a quick primer in what to look for in a Roman street sign–and where to look!

Where to look for your sign

In Rome’s center you’ll often find addresses posted on marble-like plaques on the sides of buildings. When looking for “Via dei Banchi Vecchi,” for example, you’ll need to look high up on the side of the building, where you’ll see the little plaque. Don’t get frustrated if you can’t find it right away; sometimes you have to walk a few blocks on the same street before spotting one.

Street signs come in all shapes and sizes. When not posted directly onto the buildings, you’ll find regular white street signs with black lettering. You may even see a black square sign with addresses posted directly above an advertisement, for example, for a movie or an art exhibition.

Regular street signs. Photo: N. Arriaga

Where to find your number

So you’ve found the street–now let’s find the street number! This, too, is sometimes easier said than done.

Often, odd numbers will be on one side of the street and even numbers on the other. Don’t assume that sequential numbers will be across the street from each other. “46” for example, might be several blocks away from “45” and “47.” Or the numbers could run in sequence (as pictured above).

This even-odd inconsistency tends to drive tourists mad, but after a while, you’ll get used to it. (And relax. Remember that you’ll probably make some of your best “discoveries” while wandering around a bit lost!)

Other confusing street signs

Although most of the signs posted around Rome are intended for automobiles, a few are important for pedestrians to understand. These include:

“Area Pedonale”

The “Area Pedonale” sign shows a man walking, signifying that you’re entering a pedestrian-only area. In other words, no cars allowed.

Pedestrians only! Photo: N. Arriaga

“Parcheggio Cani”

You’ll know you’re in Italy when you see this one. The sign says “Dog Parking.” While Italy is pretty dog-friendly, some businesses don’t allow you to bring Fido inside. To make nice, certain shops have set up a sort of “dog parking” station, where owners can literally tie up and “park” their dogs.

Parcometro

Believe it or not, tourists often confuse these parking meters with telephone booths. Maybe the “P” painted on it causes them to think of a “phone”? Perhaps it’s all those buttons? I’ve seen people struggling, without any luck, to find the phone receiver. No folks, these are parking meters.

If you’re looking for a phone, they’re silver and orange. Unfortunately, they’re growing scarce, but seem to still be placed around busy (and noisy) intersections.

The post Rome: Understanding the city’s street signs appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.