So book one of our affordable London hotel picks, check out our tips for saving on the top 10 attractions, and get going!

Related:

• London budget itineraries for 1, 2 & 3 days
• Visiting London? 10 Mistakes every first-time visitor should avoid
• 21 Easy ways to save on your trip to London

12 reasons to visit London in 2017

Here are 12 budget-friendly reasons we’re excited to visit London this year. Pack those bags — we’ll see you there!

The dollar is finally stronger against the pound. Photo: wwarby

1. The dollar is strong against the pound

Ah, Brexit. While Britain’s — and Europe’s — leaders are figuring out just how it’s going to work, it means the pound is relatively weak (currently $1 = £1.25), resulting in better exchange rates for overseas visitors.

London is an expensive city, so we recommend you seize the day and get more for your dollar.

2. It’s an amazing year for art

There are some stellar temporary exhibitions opening in London this year. Our favorite “must visit” exhibits include:

• The David Hockney retrospective at Tate (Feb 9 to May 28)

• Some of the biggest names in American modernism in The American Dream: Pop to the Present at the British Museum (March 9 to June 18)

• Blockbuster Impressionism with the Cezanne Portraits at the National Portrait Gallery (Oct 26 to Feb 11, 2018)

• The story of a record-breaking rock band with Pink Floyd at the V&A (May 13 to Oct 1).

And make sure to keep an eye out for the annual Museums at Night event for after-hours fun, taking place from May 17 to May 20, 2017.

Related: London’s High Culture on No Budget: Free concerts, art and theater

The V&A Museum is looking better than ever after a recent renovation. Photo: Ars E

3. The V&A gets a facelift

The scaffolding is finally coming off the V&A this year. With the unveiling of a grand new entrance and courtyard space, the museum is transforming its look. Best of all, admission is always free. We recommend you look out for the Friday Late events on the last Friday of each month, with DJs, drink, talks, and events.

4. Celebrate Jane Austen and Harry Potter

2017 has been declared Britain’s “year of literary excellence”, partly due to two significant anniversaries: the 200th anniversary of Jane Austen’s death as well as marking 20 years since the release of the first Harry Potter book.

The Jane Austen 200 events are centered in Hampshire, an easy train ride away from London, while there’s plenty of Harry Potter goodness to experience in the city, including a live orchestral screening of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone at the Royal Albert Hall and, from October 20th, an exhibition at the British Library. Plus, there’s also always Platform 9¾ to visit at King’s Cross station…

Head to Oxford and Cambridge to see the famous world-famous Boat Race. Photo: jonbgem

5. Experience the Boat Race…

Oxford and Cambridge have been racing each other on the River Thames since 1829. In 2017, the race is happening on April 2nd, so mark your calendars. Supporters (and drinkers!) line the river in a much-loved London tradition. Check out theboatrace.org for more information.

6. …and the London Marathon

Another sporting event that sees Londoners lining the streets is the London marathon, this year taking place on April 23rd. With a route that weaves through south and central London, there’s plenty of chance to support the more than 37,000 runners who travel from all over the country — and the world — to take on the course, not to mention seeing the elite runners at close proximity.

A view from the cheap seats at Wimbledon. Photo: UYM

7. Enjoy the atmosphere of Wimbledon

This world-famous tennis event takes place this year from July 3-16. The public ballot for this year has already closed, but you can still gain entry via ‘The Queue’ — an experience in its own right. Some queue overnight to get the chance of buying a ticket for Centre Court, but arriving early on the day of a match should be enough to purchase a less expensive Ground ticket. Go in the early days of the tournament, and you’ll see plenty of matches taking place and perhaps catch a glimpse of a rising star.

8. Hear world-class musicians at the BBC Proms

The Proms are an eight-week series of classical concerts held in the splendor of the Royal Albert Hall, this year running from July 14-September 9. One of the highlights of the year is giving “promming” a try — standing in the Arena of Gallery areas of the Royal Albert Hall. Tickets for “Prommers” are traditionally low, last year just costing £6 (around $7.50) — understandably long lines form for the most popular artists. And you’d need to consider camping out overnight to be in with a chance of getting into the legendary “Last Night of the Proms”…

Jump into the streets of Notting Hill during their annual Carnival celebration. Photo: Angel G.

9. Party on the streets at the Notting Hill carnival

West London turns into a giant party with one of the world’s largest street festivals at the end of August. Over a million people turn out each year to witness the dancing, music, and spectacle for the Notting Hill Carnival — a celebration of multicultural Britain. It’s also completely free of charge, however, expect to be tempted by the aromas of street food along the way.

10. Go behind the scenes at Open House

Want a glimpse behind the locked doors of some of London’s most historic and significant buildings? Of course, you do! Mark the September 16 and 17 in your diary for Open House, revealing the capital’s hidden architecture with hundreds of usually closed locations open for visitors across the city, for free. Some events require advance registration; otherwise simply join the queue!

Fireworks light up the London Eye on New Year’s Eve. Photo: Paul B

11. Welcome in next year with fireworks

Start 2018 with the spectacular fireworks display that takes place over the London Eye and Big Ben. The event is free but ticketed — sign up now to get your tickets when they become available.

12. Stay in the West End’s biggest budget hotel

The West End of London is usually out of the price range for accommodation for budget travelers (although you can find some excellent affordable places to eat). That will change this year with the opening of a 583-room Ibis Styles hotel on Shaftesbury Avenue close to Picadilly Circus. While at the pricier end of our budget (around $125 to $190 per night), it’s a welcome change from the 5-star luxury hotels that traditionally swamp the area. We’ve been waiting since they first announced the news in 2014, so we can’t wait for the doors to open!

Need a place to stay in other parts of the city? Check out our top budget hotels in London.

The post London: 12 Reasons to visit London in 2017 appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

But that’s not all. If you visit Germany, you can also check out the maritime magic of Hamburg, the world-famous university town Heidelberg, the chic old-school sophistication of Munich (served with a side of dirndls, pretzels, and lederhosen), and last but not least, the lovely jewels in the former East, like Leipzig and Dresden.

But you by no means have to stick to the towns and cities. Germany also has a lot to offer any nature lover. The country is home to the Bavarian Alps with quaint mountainside villages and the Black Forest of Brother’s Grimm fame. For great hiking in the former East, check out Saxony Switzerland, a lovely climbing area and national park southeast of Dresden.

If water is more your cup of tea, then be sure to take a boat ride down the Rhine river, enjoying a glass of local Riesling from Germany’s wine country. For a little seaside air, make your way to the Baltic Sea and treasure hunt for amber or stroll along the North Sea mudflats at low tide.

And did we mention castles and palaces? Germany has around 20,000 of them, including Potsdam’s San Souci palace and Neuschwanstein, the so-called “Disneyland” castle.

Related:

• 10 Day Germany Itinerary: Berlin, Potsdam, Hamburg, Munich and Neuschwanstein
• Planning a trip to Europe? Avoid these 10 costly mistakes
• Search for hotels across Germany

10 reasons to visit Germany in 2017

Still not enough? Below we’ve listed 10 more reasons why a trip to Germany is a must for 2017.

1. The dollar is strong against the euro right now

With plenty of free cultural offerings and cheap eats galore, Berlin has been an inexpensive tourist destination for years. However, many other places in Germany are usually a bit pricier, particularly Hamburg and Munich. Why not take advantage of a weaker euro and visit these places now when you’ll get more bang for your buck?

Air Berlin and Lufthansa fly direct to Germany from the US. Photo: BriYYZ

2. New cheap flights to Germany

AirBerlin flies direct to Berlin and Dusseldorf from several US destinations including New York and Miami. Sign up for their newsletter to stay on top of their latest deals that include round-trip flights from $499.

Norwegian Air gets you from the US to Germany for a very nice price with fares under $500. You can book tickets to several cities in Germany, including Berlin, Hamburg, and Munich.

Another airline to keep an eye on is Icelandair, which flies to Frankfurt and Hamburg with an optional stopover in Iceland.

Cheapo tip: Click here to sign up for newsletters for all the major airlines, to be the first to know about airfare sales.

3. Cheap transportation between cities

Once you’re in Germany, you no longer have to rely on costly train tickets to get around Germany. Although there are some important ways to save on train tickets, you can also try the bus. Budget bus services like Flixbus offer cheap tickets between cities starting as low as €7 one-way.

Also, car sharing services like BlaBlaCar are sometimes even cheaper than the bus with the added bonus of chit chat with a local as you barrel at top speeds down the Autobahn.

Related: Tips for driving the Autobahn in Germany

4. Luther 2017: 500 years since the Reformation

500 years ago, Martin Luther nailed his 95 theses to the door of the Castle Church in Wittenberg. His action marked the beginning of the Protestant Reformation, which changed the face of Christianity and the world forever.

Throughout 2017, exhibitions, concerts, and festivals are taking place across Germany to celebrate Luther 2017: 500 Years Since the Reformation. If you’d like to follow in Luther’s footsteps, we recommend you check out the three cities that were important to this event: Wittenberg, Mansfeld, and Eisleben, his birthplace. These three towns are not only historically interesting, they’re also extremely beautiful, so much so that the area has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

But you don’t have to stop here: Germany has over 2,000 kilometers of Luther trails where you can hike and learn about the life, work, and legacy of this important historical figure.

Cologne Carnival brings parades and parties to the city streets. Photo: Marco

5. Cologne Carnival

Known to locals in Cologne as “the 5th season of the year,” Cologne Carnival (Kölner Karneval) officially starts on November 11 at 11:11 am. However, the party gets really wild on Fat Thursday (Weiberfastnacht) on February 23rd, the week before Carnival Monday (Rosenmontag). During this time, residents give themselves Narrenfreiheit; in other words, license to do as they please because, as they say, “what happens at Karneval stays at Karneval.”

From Weiberfastnacht on, it’s all play and no work for the city, with round-the-clock costumes parties on the streets and in the pubs, and no one at school or the office. Toss back a cold Kölsch, Cologne’s most famous beer, dress up and watch the parade on Rosenmontag where you’ll hear the locals singing merry Carnival songs at the top of their lungs. Festivities continue until Ash Wednesday (March 1).

Although the Cologne Carnival celebration is the largest and most famous one in Germany, Carnival is also celebrated in Düsseldorf and Mainz.

Spring brings beautiful flowers and festivals to Berlin. Photo: visitBerlin

6. Free festivals in Berlin during June

While Berlin is well worth a visit at any time of the year, our favorite month to explore Germany’s capital is June. Not only does June usually bring the best weather — warm, but not too hot, with plenty of springtime flowers — the month is also famous for its free festivals. Here are a few to check out:

Carnival of Cultures – June 2 – 5
This gigantic street festival and parade celebrates multiculturalism in Berlin and is dedicated to highlighting world cultures.

Fête de la Musique – June 21
This summer solstice celebration features live music of all kinds at hundreds of venues and street locations across the city.

48 Hours Neukölln – June 23 to 25
Taking place in Berlin’s hippest neighborhood, this art festival highlights local artists and community art projects across Neukölln.

Long Night of the Sciences – June 24
Laboratories, scientific institutions, and libraries open their doors to the public for the “smartest night of the year.”

Bergmann Street Festival (Bergmannstraßenfest) – June 30 to July 2
This jazz festival presents three days of live music in the “multi-kulti” atmosphere on Kreuzberg’s well-known Bergmannstraße.

7. Berlin Marathon

On September 24, 2017, the 44th Berlin Marathon will take place, curving through the city center. If you’re a runner, there’s no better way to experience the city than to run in this world-class race. Just be sure to register soon before it’s too late.

If you’re not a runner, it’s still fun to watch the marathon. Get up early and watch the top runners rip up the asphalt when the race begins at 9:15 am. If you’re in the mood to sleep in, you can cheer on the runners (some in costume!) until the mid-afternoon.

If you can’t make it out in September, but still want to get in on the sporty fun, the Berlin Half Marathon takes place on April 2.

Related: Berlin hotels under $100 per night

Beer fans travel from all over the world to Munich’s famous Oktoberfest. Photo Christian

8. Oktoberfest

Dirndls, lederhosen, brass ensembles, and gallons of beer: That’s what most people imagine when they think about Oktoberfest (and probably Germany in general, for that matter). But don’t let yourself be fooled. Except for a few celebrations around the country designed to trap clueless tourists, Oktoberfest is really only celebrated in Munich. And contrary to its name, the festival starts in late September.

In 2017, Oktoberfest runs from Saturday, September 16 to Tuesday, October 3 (German Reunification Day). If you do decide to go “Auf der Wiesn,” make sure to plan your trip well in advance. The festival gets extremely busy, especially on the opening weekends, so head over to the beer tents nice and early to avoid the crowds. For more tips, check out our article 10 ways to save time and money at Oktoberfest.

Fireworks light up over Freiburg on New Year’s Eve. Photo: Orest

9. Silvester, a.k.a. New Year’s Eve

If you want to live dangerously, try spending New Year’s Eve in Germany. On New Year’s Eve, Germans don’t just drink, eat and make merry. They also add explosives to the mix — fireworks — and lots of them. To play it safe, check out the major fireworks display close to midnight, which you’ll find in every town and city across the country.

But for the true Silvester experience, go to Berlin to set off bottle rockets and light up firecracker after firecracker with hordes of people who have already tossed back far too many drinks. But beware: On this night, the city gets a little crazy, so come prepared.

10. Wonderfully Weird Festivals

Last but not least, Germany is also a great place to visit for weird festivals, some truly bordering on the surreal and bizarre.

Tübingen Duck Race
On October 7th, check out the Tübingen Duck Race, where locals get together and race 7,000 rubber duckies down the Neckar River.

German Deer Calling Competition
Listen as hunters go horn to horn in the traditional German Deer Calling Competition, held every fall during deer mating season.

German Bus Pulling Championship
If you’re more in the mood to see some brawn, check out the annual German Bus Pulling Championship, where 16 five-person teams from around the country compete to see who can pull a 14-ton bus the furthest and fastest. Scheduled for June.

Wave-Gothik-Treffen
And for lots of black and graveyard fashion, be sure to hop over to Leipzig for the Wave-Gothik-Treffen, the world’s largest goth festival which takes place this year from June 2 to 5.

Affordable hotels in Europe

No matter where you’re off to in 2017, you can search for hotels on EuroCheapo. Check out our expert hotel reviews to start planning your trip!

The post 10 Reasons to visit Germany in 2017 appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

As is our holiday tradition, we’re ready with our list of why you should be excited about visiting Paris in 2015. (Funny how the list gets longer every year. We wonder what 75 reasons to visit Paris in 2075 will look like…)

Fortunately 15 reasons to visit the City of Light is an easy challenge, with many new things happening, beginning in January. Here are just a few of the highlights that we’re looking forward to:

The renovations at the Musée Picasso have finally finished, and it’s looking better than ever. Photo: Yann C.

15. Picasso is back in the house

After accidentally lying to you years ago, this time we’re sure. The newly renovated Picasso Museum has finally reopened. We’re serious this time. We’ve seen it. It just reopened. So go visit!

14. BYO Bag

A city free of plastic bags? That’s what Paris should look like in 2015. Mayor Hidalgo wants to rid the city of the pervasive bags that contribute to pollution. We’re inching closer to a cleaner Paris. Think about bringing your own tote bag.

13. Swan Lake! Singin’ in the Rain!

“Swan Lake” at the Opéra Bastille this March-April? Yes please! (And cheapo seats are available from €5!) The theatrical offerings next year are as high quality as ever at the city’s two main opera houses. Or swing over to the Théâtre du Châtelet for a bit of “Singin’ in the Rain”, March 12-26.

Related: Cheapo guide to the Opera district

12. Papal visit

The pope’s coming, and he’s pretty cool, right? Francois I’s plans are still shaping up—no doubt waiting to see if we’ll be around to give him a visit of our favorite spots—but we’ll let you know once he decides to book. With only two or three other visits planned around France, you can bet this historic trip will mean a lot of excitement in Paris.

The Ritz at Place Vendome might be out of our price range, but we’re still looking forward to the new renovations. (Hint: fancy bathroom break!) Photo: Welshdan

11. Flushing at the Ritz

Okay, so we can’t afford to stay there, but the post-renovation re-openings of the Hotel Ritz and the Hotel de Crillon are still exciting. We like to stop into the bars to pretend that we’ll have a drink and splurge, but actually we’ll just use their impeccable bathrooms when nature calls. Why not?

10. New Paris Philharmonic opens

The opening of the new Paris Philharmonic, a building designed by Jean Nouvel, will “revolutionize music in Paris” according to some, but we’re just excited to see the final architectural product. Way up in the 19th arrondissement, it’s sure to have an impact on the neighborhood at least. Check their site for the 2015 program.

9. Navigo gets simpler

Those monthly Navigo passes for the Metro can get tricky, but in 2015 it all gets easier. For monthly subscribers—so students, long-stay visitors, expats—the new fee is €70 for all zones, so there’s no need to buy extra tickets to get out to CDG or Versailles. Thanks for making things easier, Paris!

Related: Will buying a Navigo Pass help save you money?

8. Taxi changes

See them while they’re still here! Those green taxi stands with the buttons that you press in vain while calling a cab? They’re on their way out, to be replaced with a smartphone app. At the moment, Parisian taxi drivers aren’t happy, already facing competition from Uber. We’ll see how the story develops.

The Grand Palais is one of the most beautiful spaces in Paris, and 2015 welcomes a host of world-class art. Photo: Pierre-Louis F.

7. MOMA and Gaultier at the Grand Palais

The Louvre in Abu Dhabi will be stealing a lot of the attention on French art in 2015, but there will be no shortage of great shows going on, especially at the Grand Palais. Modern art from the San Francisco MOMA will headline one show in April-June alongside another featuring French fashion’s bad boy Jean-Paul Gaultier (April 1-August 3).

Another much-anticipated Picasso exhibit, featuring his works compared to those of other famous artists, should be up in the fall also at the Grand Palais. But then, there’s also a lot happening at the Orsay, the Petit Palais, the Palais de Tokyo, the Louvre, the Carnavalet…

6. New Generator Hostel powers up

European chain Generator is opening up its newest youth hostel boasting 916 beds in the 10th arrondissement. The hostel isn’t your dad’s backpacker hostel, featuring more a more upscale design that might attract business travelers looking for a deal. And with rooms starting at 25 euros, who could blame them?

Related: The best cheap hotels in Paris 

5. “Best City for Students”

Paris was named best city for students in 2015 by the QS report, beating out London and Melbourne. With so many student discounts, free cultural offerings, affordable student living, and a concentration of good inexpensive schools, we totally agree. (So maybe take that semester abroad now, right?)

Pedestrians will have more room to stretch their legs next year in the central districts of Paris. Photo: David McSpadden

4. Cars out of the center

Adieu, we say to the cars, adieu. The mayor has proposed addressing air pollution by restricting the number of cars in the central first four arrondissements in Paris. By allowing only cars from residents, deliveries, and other necessary vehicles, she hopes to make the historic center more pedestrian and bike friendly, and a whole lot cleaner. Diesel fuel is also on the chopping block…

3. “Tastes of Paris” in late May

We’re not about to throw down a few hundred euros for a Michelin star dining experience in Paris. Not yet at least. But the country’s most famous chefs are bringing their dishes to the public at the first ever Tastes of Paris event at the Grand Palais, May 21-25. Names like Ducasse and Robuchon will be there, offering tastings of their famous fare—with much more enticing prices.

Related: Eating cheap in Paris with 8 dinners for €10 or less

2. Race up the Tour Eiffel in March

Sure the Paris Marathon is attracting tens of thousands of people to Paris in April, but the Eco Trail run, held just a few weeks before on March 21, is offering a historic opportunity to run up the city’ most iconic monument, the Eiffel Tower herself. If you’re an experienced runner, enter the lottery to win a spot among the 40 runners to be selected for the “Verticale Tour Eiffel” race in March.

You can never have enough baguettes in Paris. Photo: Paul Asman

1. Baguettes

And if nothing else, I hear that Paris still makes some good baguettes… You know, if nothing else. Here’s a list of the 2014 winners for the “Grand Prix de la Meilleure Baguette” (Grand Prize for the Best Baguettes). Why not check them all out?

The post 15 reasons to visit Paris in 2015 appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Leipzig was not the best place to be 200 years ago this week. From October 16-19, 1813, European history was shaped in the meadows just south of the city. Over 500,000 soldiers fought over the future of their continent.

Related: Leipzig budget travel guide

October 1813

The Battle of Nations was one of the decisive conflicts — many would say the most decisive one — of the Napoleonic Wars. France had triumphed over five opposing coalitions, before stumbling at Borodino in 1812 (where Napoleon may nominally have won but his forces suffered grave losses in the process) and then being defeated at Leipzig in October 1813.

Outside the impressive Monument to the Battle of Nations.

Some 110,000 men lost their lives at Leipzig. A similar number suffered terrible injuries. The citizens of Leipzig were not mere onlookers in the conflict. In the days and weeks after the battle, the city endured major epidemics. Richard Wagner’s father died from typhus in Leipzig that fall, and before long the Wagner family had left the city. We can but speculate how the course of musical and operatic history might have evolved if the Wagner family had stayed in Leipzig.

Recalling the victims of war

The Battle of Nations is recalled in Leipzig today in a number of monuments. The most beautiful is the Russian Orthodox church at the northern margin of the former battlefield. The church, dedicated to the 14th-century Metropolitan Alexej of Moscow was built by workers from Russia and its opening coincided with the centenary of the Battle of Nations. In the victorious coalition at Leipzig, Russia paid the highest price in terms of war dead.

But the most striking is the more secular memorial erected by the German authorities to also mark the centenary of the battle. At the time, it was Europe’s largest monument and it remains mightily impressive today. There are the predictable flaming swords and firebrands of war. But there are also intensely beautiful sculptures inside the monument where the Hall of Fame has eight huge death masks, attended by sixteen warriors with their heads lowered in mourning.

The monument to the Battle of Nations

The monument is a short tram ride southeast from the city centre. It is worth going at a time when the interior is open to the public, as you can then climb up through the galleries to reach the viewing platform on top of the monument. It affords a magnificent panorama of Leipzig. Opening times are 10 a.m.-6 p.m. daily in summer (and from just 10 a.m.-4 p.m. from November through March).

This monument alone is good cause to make tracks for Leipzig. But there are many more besides and we shall look at other features of the city in two further articles this month on Leipzig.

The post 200 years on, Leipzig recalls the Battle of Nations appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Warming Up

Every year, Bastille Day (July 14) kicks off with the fireman’s brigade ball on the evening of July 13, where you can go and dance the night away (until 4 a.m., to be exact) with the studly firemen of Paris in stations citywide. A small fee is sometimes charged at the door; if not, be prepared to make a small donation.

If you’d rather party in the open air, head over to the newly revamped Place de la République, which has just reopened after 18 months of renovations to make it more pedestrian-friendly and inviting, for a night of music and letting loose starting at 9:30 p.m. and continuing through dawn.

Bastille Day Classics

If you’re not too tired (or hungover) on Sunday morning, the annual military parade down the Champs-Elysées starts just after 9 a.m. Europe’s largest military parade has 4800 men and women marching in uniform, 265 military vehicles, 58 airplanes and 35 helicopters.

Sunday afternoon, a citywide meet and greet with French military personnel is a chance for locals and tourists alike to meet active duty soldiers and talk to them about their work, on the Esplanade des Invalides, the Place de la Nation and elsewhere. Free of charge.

The night of July 14 is a mob scene on the Champ de Mars as thousands of people crowd in for a birds eye view of the spectacular fireworks display starting at 11 p.m. To keep the crowds who arrive early to secure a spot, a classical concert begins at 9:30 p.m. and ends just before the fireworks begin with a group singalong of France’s national anthem, “The Marseillaise”.

Note that all Vélib stations around the Champ de Mars will be closed and inaccessible and don’t think about coming by car. Walk or take public transport and again be sure to arrive early.

Bastille Day on the Fly

Don’t feel like joining the throngs on the Champs-Elysées? Plan to be outdoors around 10:40 a.m. on Sunday morning and look up to catch a glimpse as military air jets do a patriotic fly over in normally restricted airspace above central Paris, leaving photogenic blue, white and red streaks in the Paris sky. (Ditto for Sunday evening, where the fireworks can be viewed from along the Seine, the Pont des Arts and elsewhere around the city.)

Bastille Day is a national holiday, but not all city attractions take the day off. Check out this list of museums and attractions that are open (ouvert) or closed (fermé) on the 14th if you’re not in the mood to treat it like anything but just another day.

Special perk: free parking on national holidays, including the 14th.

This Year’s Ode to the French Revolution Will Be Televised

Don’t like crowds? For the first time this year, the Bastille Day concert and fireworks will be broadcast live on French TV. If you aren’t in the mood for a rowdy scene, there’s nothing wrong with staying in like many Parisians do, grabbing a bottle of wine and kicking back in your room to watch the festivities on the small screen (or online at Paris.fr).

For more ideas on ways to celebrate, see last year’s post on Bastille Day events.

The post Inexpensive Ways to Enjoy Bastille Day Weekend in Paris appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

1. Paris Plages
July 20 – August 18

From the banks of the Seine to the banks of the Canal in the 19e arrondissement, those looking for a bit of reprieve from the heat need search no further than Paris Plages. Kids and adults can enjoy the various activities (think line dancing) and relaxed atmosphere that are both so quintessentially un-Parisian. Bring a towel, a picnic, and some SPF as you relax on the imported sand beaches and imagine yourself on the Riviera at no cost.

Skip to the loo, then take a seat for “Cinema en plein air”. Photo: Fabrice Paulmier

2. Outdoor Cinema
July 24 – August 24

The Cinéma en Plein Air at Parc de la Villette offers everyone the chance to kick back at night in front of a giant inflatable movie screen. Picnic supplies and a blanket are a must. Films for the summer of 2013 include “Milk,” “The Social Network,” “Ocean’s Eleven,” and of course some French films that you may not know, but will happily become familiar with.

Note: Plan a bathroom break before hand, as meandering through the crowd in the dark is both difficult and, frankly, annoying.

3. Picnic with the locals

It goes without saying that Paris is a giant picnic in the summer. Along the river or in any of the gorgeous parks like Buttes Chaumont or Montsouris, there is no better way to cozy up to the locals than to pack some bread, cheese, and charcuterie. Bring a bottle of wine, but “forget” your opener – it’s the perfect excuse to talk to that oftentimes-attractive group of Frenchmen/women next to you.

Get to the sales early and don’t forget to hydrate! Photo: Galinette

4. Soldes!
June 26 – July 30

Those looking to do some shopping in Paris should wait until the biannual sales, or “soldes,” that take place in the winter and the summer. But this shopping is not for the faint of heart. Hydrate well and bring an attitude as you’ll be scrambling among more seasoned Parisian clients who are used to the huge lines and scattered goods.

Check out smaller boutiques near the Canal St. Martin or in the Marais and avoid the department stores if you’re not a crowd person. (More tips on making the most of Paris’ bi-annual sales.)

5. Off-Broadway in Paris
June and July

Opera and ballet are great, but sometimes expats and tourists yearn for a good old-fashioned American musical. American Musical Theater Live! is introducing the Off-Broadway genre to Paris with “Edges” and “The Last 5 Years”, both debuting this summer. They are in English, with international casts, and tickets are affordable for musical theaters (try getting a €20 ticket in the West End easily!). The shows will play at the Auguste Théâtre in the 11^th arrondissement and are definitely worth checking out.

6. The Titanic Exhibit
June 1 – September 15

Twenty-one passengers boarded the Titanic when it docked at Cherbourg, and 16 survived the sinking. The boat’s story, however, is intriguing to all nationalities, and the traveling exhibit of artifacts is coming to Paris. On Monday, tickets are cheaper than the rest of the week. It may not scream, “Summer in Paris!” but excitement is subjective, right?

Music performances, planned and otherwise, take to the streets throughout Paris during the Fete de la Musique on June 21. Photo: Boklm

7. Music Festivals
All summer

Summertime turns up the soundtrack in Paris with multiple festivals. While not all are a free, the Fête de la Music on June 21 allows musicians to play all over the city into all hours of the night.

Also check out the Jazz Festival at the Parc Floral (June 8 – July 28) or get tickets to either Solidays (June 28-30) or Rock en Seine (June 23-25) for more contemporary artists. Read more about the city’s music festivals.

8. Frozen treats

When it’s hot, well, we want something cold. Sure, you can wait in line at Berthillon for some classic French ice cream, but there are plenty of other options:

• A new frozen yogurt boutique, Baci Bisous, has opened by the Canal just in time for summer. (25 rue des Vinaigriers, 75010)

Hurry up, it’s melting! Photo: cameronparkins

• Try the various flavors of Chacun ses Goûts and add toppings to your own yogurt creation as you wish. (4 rue Geoffroy l’Angevin 75004)

• In the Upper Marais, Mary’s Gelato (1 rue Dupuis 75003) is whipping up some of the best Italian sorbets you’ll taste, just down the street from equally delicious Pozetto (39 rue du Roi de Sicile 75004) and their signature chocolate-hazelnut or pistachio gelato.

Read more of about Paris’ best ice cream and gelato options.

9. Bastille Day
July 14

From the Firemen’s parties (“bal des pompiers”) to the military parade down the Champs Elysées, July 14th is a huge party in Paris, even if it celebrates the beginning of an unfortunately bloody revolution. But fireworks! Bag a non-alcoholic picnic (they check bags for spirits – let’s keep it family-friendly) and head to the Champs de Mars at the foot of the Eiffel Tower for one of the most stunning spectacles ever. Just don’t be in a rush to get out afterwards. The thousands of spectators are very carefully funneled through controlled exits, so it takes a few moments – or hours. But it’s worth it!

10. The Great Exodus: Parisians leave
August

In August, the migration begins as locals ship out and Italians, Americans, Russians, and just about any other nationality interested in Paris fill in the café seats left behind. It’s an odd feeling to see so many local places closed while major tourist addresses are inundated, but it’s also refreshing. A week or two of calm in most non-central neighborhoods does a person good. Head to the 19^th, the 17^th, or the 15^th during this time to see what a Parisian ghost town feels like! (Read more about visiting Paris in August–without Parisians.)

Your favorite reasons for visiting Paris in the summer?

Have something to add to our list? Tell us about it in the comments section below.

Also in our guide: If you are planning to head to Paris this summer and looking for an affordable place to stay, be sure to stop by our guide to recommended budget hotels. Our editors have inspected, reviewed and photographed every recommended hotel in our guide.

The post Paris: 10 reasons to visit Paris this summer appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

1. Notre Dame’s birthday

Notre Dame is turning 850 and the party is going strong. With renovations, new bells, and a platform allowing a unique elevated view of the church, there will be plenty of activity around the world’s most iconic cathedral.

Paris is very popular on Facebook.

2. Because you “like” Paris

Paris is a social media phenomenon with more likes on its Facebook page than any other city. If that’s not reason enough to come visit, then clearly you’re behind the times. Be sure to tag us in some of your photos if you do decide to come.

3. Nothing to sneeze at

Have a food allergy? No need to hide! Along with Helmut Newcake, Paris’s first gluten-free bakery, other food establishments are offering more and more allergy-conscious dishes, making this culinary capital even more all-encompassing. Check out Noglu, a gluten-free and often dairy-free restaurant in the 9th arrondissement. Grocery stores are also increasingly displaying their gluten-free varieties, so we’re excited to see what 2013 has in store!

The Carreau du Temple will reopen in the spring or summer. Photo: Loresui

4. New life in the Marais

The Carreau du Temple, a 19th-century covered market, is opening sometime in the spring or summer, bringing even more life into the Upper Marais district. Haven’t checked out this area yet? It’s full of great shops, cafés, and the Marché des Enfants Rouges, the city’s oldest covered market. When the Carreau du Temple opens, the renovated pavilion will host a cultural center with different halls for events ranging from sports and theater to markets and art shows.

5. A new Place de la République

A new Place de la République will be unveiled, creating a more attractive journey between the Marais and the Canal St-Martin districts. Once construction is finished, the renovated plaza will boast new fountains, energy efficient lights, and an overall brighter atmosphere than of olden days.

Get closer to the Seine on your Velib’ in 2013. Photo: fgornet

6. New dedicated Right Bank bike lanes

Biking across Paris will be even easier as a path between Place de la Concorde and the Bastille will be opened, connecting the east and west of the city along the Right Bank. Currently, biking by the Louvre and the Tuileries towards either end of the city is a nightmare, but in 2013, Paris will become more of a biker’s paradise, allowing you to cruise along the river without worrying about buses and cars.

7. Last call for the food trucks?

Food will return to the table in 2013, at least it’s looking that way. The famous Camion Qui Fume and other food trucks don’t have quite the mobility that their American counterparts do, since the city doesn’t make things easy for these movable feasts. I predict that the novelty will wear off soon as Parisians and tourists alike realize that sitting down while eating wasn’t really a problem in the first place.

The Picasso Museum reopens in the summer of 2013. Photo: Heyrocker

8. Picasso comes home!

At last, at last, the Picasso Museum will reopen! Few remember when we last stepped foot inside the Marais haunt, but starting in the summer of 2013, as long as all goes well with the renovations, we’ll be able to relive the Blue Period and wrap our minds around Cubism all over again.

9. A little night music

Theatre doesn’t stop surprising us. After a hugely successful run of “West Side Story,” Sondheim’s “A Sunday in the Park with George” will be presented at the Théâtre du Chatelet April 15-25, 2013. And if Broadway isn’t your thing, the Opera Bastille and Garnier will hold stellar seasons as usual. “Hansel and Gretel” anyone?

The newest Louvre, in Lens. Photo: James Kirk

10. The Louvre through another Lens

There’s a second… Louvre? Yes, Mona Lisa’s home just wasn’t big enough to house all of the Louvre’s treasures, so the museum just opened a second address in Lens, a nearby coal-mining town. Take the train ride, just over an hour, to experience a very different and modern experience, the Louvre-Lens.

11. Bon app!

Parisians love apps. Forget reading books and newspapers in the Metro (well, not really…). Now they’re scanning the news on their tablets and smartphones. Need a pastry? There’s an app for that. Need to get to the airport? Check. Want to know where to find the nearest Vélib stand? Got it covered. There’s no telling what our smartphones will be doing in 2013.

TGV-Eco fares let you get out of town for less than €25. Photo: Gerard Stolk

12. Exhibits galore!

In 2013, Paris is still the place to be with some fun and fresh shows in the city’s most iconic museums, as well as some lesser-known ones. See Chagall at the Musée du Luxembourg (February 21-July 21), experience a collection on Miss Dior at the Grand Palais (March 22-April 3), or explore Da Vinci at Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie (now on through August 18). And don’t forget the continually rotating free shows at the Hotel de Ville, including the upcoming Haute Couture exhibit (March 2-July 6).

13. €25 fares on the TGV

Trains are getting Cheapo, finally! The SCNF is introducing a new idea, the TGV-Eco, that will offer at least 1 million TGV tickets each year for under €25. The first trial will be on the Paris—Montpellier line, and include stops in Lyon and Marseille. If all goes well, this could mean good things for budget travelers looking to take a trip out of Paris for a day or two.

Your reasons to visit Paris in 2013?

What are you looking forward to in Paris this year, Cheapos? Add something to our list in the comments section!

The post Paris: 13 reasons to visit Paris in 2013 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.

On Thursday September 27, 2012 Dubliners have an extra excuse to head to their local for a pint. Some will celebrate by simply raising a glass, while others will partake in festivities throughout the city. Arthur’s Day has also become tied to music, and several bands—such as Mumford and Sons—are playing small venues throughout the city and country beyond.

Who is Arthur?

The man behind the famous Irish pint is Arthur Guinness, who in 1759 signed a 9,000-year lease on an old brewery in St. James’s Gate, Dublin. The initial cost was 100 pounds, with an annual rent of 45 pounds. Importantly, this deal also included water rights. Over 250 years ago, Arthur started brewing porter and ale.

Guinness Today

The original lease that Arthur Guinness signed still stands, and Guinness is brewed in the same part of Dublin, called St. James’s Gate, just west of city center. Today it is brewed 365 days a year and the Guinness Storehouse is also home to a popular museum.

Interactive exhibits show visitors what goes into Guinness: barley, hops, water, and a special strain of yeast. That’s all: Just four ingredients combine to create the complex flavors of this stout.

The Gravity Bar

After learning how to pour a perfect pint in the museum, keep climbing the stairs to the Gravity Bar. Perched on top of the brewery, this sky-high watering hole offers incredible views over the rooftops of Dublin. It is circular, with floor to ceiling windows, and descriptions on the glass tell you what landmarks you’re looking at, such as Trinity College or St. Stephen’s Green.

A ticket to the Guinness Storehouse includes one pint of the black stuff (purchase your ticket online in advance for a discount and to skip the lines). It takes almost three full minutes for the perfect pour of Guinness, and remember to let it settle before taking that magical first sip.

Watching the sunset in the Gravity Bar or raising a glass in a local pub for Arthur’s Day, something about Guinness just tastes better in the city where it was born.

Read more about Arthur’s Day on the official Guinness Web site. If you’re heading to Dublin, be sure to stop by our Dublin guide to read about recommended budget hotels in the city, all inspected and approved.

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Our London correspondent Nina Derham was among the reported 50,000 people who jammed into the park on Friday night to observe the opening night spectacular. The evening included a concert (featuring Duran Duran and the Stereophonics, among other bands), airplane flyover, and of course, a screening of the opening ceremony taking place at the nearby Olympic stadium.

Nina sent along the following shots to chronicle the experience.

A patriotic flyover of Hyde Park.

Sunset over Hyde Park

Screenings of Olympic events continues in Hyde Park through August 11. These stadium-sized screens, by the way, include the largest screen in the United Kingdom.

Entry is free and is open from 11 a.m. For more information, visit the London 2012 site’s article on parks with Olympics screenings.

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