Here’s the good news: In general, Germany is not a particularly pricey tourist destination in western Europe, especially when compared to countries like France or Italy. However, you can still find plenty of ways to save and avoid tourist traps and bad deals along the way. To help you plan a fun, budget-conscious trip, we’ve listed our 55 best budget tips for visiting Germany.

Related:
• 10-Day Itinerary in Germany: Berlin, Potsdam, Hamburg, Munich & Neuschwanstein
• 10 Easy ways to save on your trip to Munich
• 10 Reasons for budget travelers to visit Germany this year

Budget Travel Germany: 55 tips to help you save

This is a “Cheapo Checklist.” We’ve included links through to more in-depth articles, where possible. Be sure to check out the comments at the end for additional tips, and please add your own in the comments at the end!

Germany lights up in the holidays with famous Christmas markets. Photo: Rene S.

Trip timing

Before you hit book on your tickets to Germany, pull out your calendar and follow these tips to guide you through the best time of year to visit.

• “SHOULDER SEASON” SAVINGS: If you can, try to visit Germany in June or September. You’ll find better deals during these months and the weather is still usually very pleasant. If you’re coming for the winter holidays, New Year’s tends to be pricey and full. Instead, why not come in early December and enjoy the Christmas markets that Germany is rightfully famous for.

• KEEP AN EYE ON SCHOOL HOLIDAYS: Public school in Germany has five main school holidays: winter holidays, spring break, summer holidays, autumn holidays and Christmas holidays. Summer vacation is usually six weeks and the other school holidays range from a week to two weeks.

During school holidays prices are higher and the Autobahn is jam-packed, particularly at the beginning and end of the vacation period. The actual dates of school holidays are different in each state, so before you go, take a look at the school schedule for the area you plan to visit. A list of the school holidays in each German state can be found here.

• WATCH OUT FOR TRADE FAIRS AND EXHIBITIONS: Frankfurt, Hanover, and Leipzig are all big trade fair towns, so if you’re planning to visit any of these cities, be sure you check the trade fair schedule online. If you’re accidentally there during a major one, like the Frankfurt Book Fair, you’ll have trouble finding a hotel room and will pay far more if you do find one.

Most of Berlin’s major trade fairs take place at the Messe ICC in Charlottenburg, so if you’re visiting Berlin when a big exhibition is in town, consider staying in a different part of the city.

• AVOID OKTOBERFEST IN MUNICH. Oktoberfest is fun but it attracts huge crowds. Hotel prices in Munich at this time also go through the roof. To enjoy the Bavarian art of brewing paired with a soft pretzel or a Weisswurst with sweet mustard, you’d be better off visiting a beer garden in the summer when the weather is at its best. But the beer garden doesn’t have to be in Munich. Pretty much every town and village in Bavaria has at least one open in the warmer months, so take your pick.

Flying to Germany for less

Although flights are not super cheap from the US to Germany these days, there are deals out there if you know where to look. First off, sign up for these airline newsletters to get good deals to Europe.

• CHOOSE YOUR AIRPORT WISELY: If you’re flying from North America, you’re likely to find the best flight deals into Frankfurt, home to Germany’s largest international airport. However, Frankfurt is five hours away from Berlin and almost four hours away from Munich.

Since train tickets can be pricey and gas is expensive, it may be worth paying a little extra to fly closer to your destination. Be sure to also check out the airports of cities not too far away. For example, you might snag a deal on a flight to Hamburg, which is only two hours away from Berlin and well worth a visit on its own.

Related: Layover in Munich? Hit the beer garden!

• OPEN JAW TICKETS SAVE TIME AND MONEY: Consider flying into one city and home through another. (For example, into Berlin and back home from Munich.) Since you don’t have to circle back to your point of arrival to fly home, “open jaw” tickets can help you save both money and time. Best of all, the flight tickets are often about the same price as simple round-trip tickets.

• TRY A LOW-COST AIRLINE: Consider low-cost airline options from the US to Germany, including Norwegian Airlines and Condor.

• “HUB IT” FOR SAVINGS: Not finding cheap airfare to Germany? Try “hubbing it,” by flying first to any cheap European destination (for example, finding a cheap flight to Dublin on Aer Lingus) and then catching a budget flight from there to Germany (for example, on Ryanair). If your schedule is a bit flexible, you could find some savings.

• AVOID TAXIS INTO BERLIN: Taxis from the airport into Berlin are usually not as expensive as they might be in other European cities. In most cases, you should be able to get where you need to go for under €40. However, that’s a lot when you compare it to the price of a simple public transportation ticket.

Both Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) and Schönefeld Airport are centrally located, with great public transport connections that should easily get you to your destination. So unless you’ve got a big family or lots of luggage, consider hopping on the bus or train, which will take you straight to the city or a nearby U-Bahn or S-Bahn station.

Want to see the world’s most famous castle? Make sure to plan a visit to Neuschwanstein! Photo: Ole

Building an itinerary for Germany

Before you add every city in Germany to your “to-do” list, take a deep breath and come up with a plan that’s as fun as it is reasonable.

• SLOW DOWN FOR SAVINGS (AND SANITY): To get more out of your vacation, especially if you’re not in the country for very long, it’s best to choose a region to focus on and come back some other time to see the rest.

For example, nearly every tourist visiting Germany says they want to visit “that castle,” meaning Neuschwanstein, made famous by Walt Disney. But if you’re planning to spend your vacation in Berlin, Neuschwanstein is nearly seven hours away (and speaking of Neuschwanstein, Germany has at least 20,000 castles to choose from, and most are not nearly as crowded or expensive as the famous Neuschwanstein!)

• THINK “DAY TRIPS”: Rather than driving to a new destination every day, consider spending two or three nights in each spot and taking day trips. For example, if you’re in Munich, you can easily drive into the Alps, hop up to Nuremberg or cross over into Austria for a visit to Mozart’s hometown, Salzburg.

• GO EAST: Sure, Munich is beautiful and Heidelberg is quaint, but both these cities are also on the pricey side. In many cases, you’ll find better deals in former East Germany rather than the former West.

For example, Erfurt is every bit as quaint as Heidelberg, and the historic Jena and Weimar are both nearby. Berlin is less expensive than Munich, but so is Leipzig, a city with a vibrant arts scene which easily rivals Berlin’s, but provides a more laid back atmosphere than you’ll get in Germany’s capital city.

• CHECK OUT THE NORDSEE AND THE OSTSEE: In the summer, many Germans head off to the Nordsee (North Sea) or Ostsee (Baltic Sea) coast to spend their holidays. Berlin and Munich are always swarming with tourists from around the world, but most of them never make it up to the coast.

If you want to see how Germans like to spend their summer vacation, as well as go off the beaten path, head up to the coast and islands, like Rugen. Although you can still find good deals in the high season, be sure to book far in advance because places fill up fast. And be sure to pack a rain jacket and a sweater or two, even if you’re there in August. The weather on the German coast is famously unpredictable.

Saving on trains and transportation in Germany

We love the high-speed trains in Germany, but you can also take regional rail or opt for a budget bus line and even rideshare options.

• BOOK ICE TICKETS IN ADVANCE: If you plan to take the ICE, Germany’s high-speed train, book those tickets as far in advance as possible for the best rates and to take advantage of sale fares. The closer you get to the travel date, the more expensive the seats.

• CONSIDER A GERMAN RAIL PASS: A single-country German Rail Pass is a good choice for many travelers in Germany. This pass gives you four day’s travel anywhere within the country as well as a few select routes outside of Germany, such as Salzburg.

• BOOK TICKETS THROUGH THE RAILWAY: Book your ICE tickets like the locals, through Deutsche Bahn’s official website. There’s no need to go through a third-party retailer or agency back in the United States. Book tickets directly for the lowest prices, and print off your tickets at home before leaving for Germany.

• BUY REGIONAL TRAIN TICKETS AT THE STATION: Taking slower, regional trains? Unlike the ICE, there’s no need to book those tickets in advance online. Just buy them at the train station. You can also purchase special deals such as the regional day ticket, the weekend ticket and regional day tickets.

• KIDS TRAVEL FREE: Some savings are already there for you to enjoy: Children 15 and under travel free on the ticket of their parents or grandparents.

• GET TO KNOW SOME LOCALS WITH A RIDESHARE: Ridesharing is an inexpensive way to travel in Germany, and a great way to get to know some locals. To see who might be heading towards your destination, take a look at BlaBlaCar.

• BUSES CAN BE CHEAPER THAN TRAINS: Take a look at Flixbus for super cheap fares for travel around Germany — and just about everywhere else in Europe. Perk: Flixbus coaches are equipped with free Wi-Fi and electrical outlets. Sample fare: €15 for Hamburg-Berlin; €30 for Frankfurt-Zurich.

Saving on rental cars in Germany

Before you hop in your rental car for a cruise down the Autobahn, take a quick look at our tips for driving safely and saving on your car reservation. You can also search for dates and compare car rates at European rental agencies.

BOOK CARS EARLY FOR DEALS: As with train tickets, booking early is a safe bet for finding the best car rental prices.

CANCEL IF YOU FIND A BETTER DEAL: Nearly all car rentals are flexible and able to be canceled. So, did you find something cheaper after you booked it? Cancel and rebook!

WATCH THE START DATE: Your car reservation shouldn’t necessarily start on the first day of your trip. It should start on the first day you’re leaving the city you fly into! Pick up your car when you’re ready to drive off from Berlin, not when you arrive.

Related: How to calculate the real rate of a rental car in Europe

BE SMART ABOUT AUTO INSURANCE: Does your car insurance or credit company cover overseas car insurance? Call before taking off to double-check. You’ll be getting the hard sell from the rental car agency, so know in advance. You might also want to consider travel insurance for your trip.

WATCH YOUR SPEED: When driving around Germany, pay attention to the posted speed limits, as well as to the “speed camera” signs. Yes, you have to pay speeding tickets on rental cars!

KNOW THE RULES OF THE AUTOBAHN: Many tourists have dreamed of barreling down the Autobahn at break-neck speeds, but it’s important to know a few basic rules, like not passing on the right. Contrary to popular belief, there is also sometimes a speed limit on the Autobahn (For example: near cities or construction sites). Tickets can be expensive, so watch for signs. Check out our top tips for driving on the German Autobahn.

PARKING IS HARD TO FIND IN THE CITY CENTER: If possible, try to avoid parking in the center of German cities. Parking can be hard to find and be expensive. In some cities, you can find parking in a parking garage, but more often you will need to pay for a Parkscheine, which can be purchased from a large gray box located somewhere near the parking areas marked with a blue square and a white “P.” Make sure to have some coins on you, because these boxes don’t usually accept bills or credit cards.

LEARN A FEW BASIC TRAFFIC SIGNS: Traffic signs in Germany can be baffling for those who didn’t grow up there. Many have lines and shapes and colors that make no sense at all if you don’t know how to read them. If you plan to do a lot of driving during your trip to Germany, you might want to learn a few first by taking a look at the information provided by ADAC, the German AAA. Check out this guide to signage.

• USE PARKING APPS: Many German cities now offer parking apps that can help you find and pay for parking spots more easily. Apps like EasyPark, PayByPhone, or ParkNow are widely used in major cities. These can save you time and the hassle of hunting for a parking meter.

The view from a private balcony at Hotel Pension Bella

Save on hotels and accommodation in Germany

Germany has one of the lowest price points for hotels in Europe. The average rate still averages to under €120 per night! Hotels are our specialty. Check out the best budget hotels in Berlin, Frankfurt, Cologne, and Munich. Looking for other cities? Search for great rates at over 47,000 hotels across Germany.

BOOK EARLY FOR POPULAR HOTELS: The best (and most affordable) accommodation options tend to go first, so try to book as far in advance as possible, especially if you’re traveling in the high season.

ROLL THE DICE WITH LAST-MINUTE BOOKINGS: Flexible with your hotel options? If you’re willing to gamble a bit, you can often find great deals at the very last minute. This is especially true if traveling during the low season or to less touristy destinations. Here are tips on when to book for the best hotel deal.

RENT A FLAT: Hotels are not your only option, of course. Renting an apartment or staying with locals (through homestays) can offer much more room, kitchens, laundry facilities — and even save cash.

CONSIDER A HOSTEL: Although hostels sometimes have a party reputation, you can find some good deals at quieter places, especially in Berlin. If dormitories aren’t quite your thing, many offer inexpensive private rooms. Discover the best hostels in Berlin.

TRY ALTERNATIVE ACCOMMODATIONS: Consider unique options like farm stays (Bauernhöfe) or monastery stays. These can offer a more authentic German experience and are often budget-friendly.

Free and cheap things to do in Germany

Germany is an easy place to find entertainment and culture on the cheap, whether you love art, going to the movies or just wandering around a city.

SPEAK WITH PROFESSIONALS: Get guidance from the source! Stop by the tourist information center first thing when you arrive in a city. Pick up maps and find out about museums, events, walking tours, day trips and more. You’ll find them in the heart of every city on the tourist radar: For example, in Berlin, there are six, including one at both airports. In Munich and Heidelberg there is one in the city center and one at the main train station.

SOME OF THE BEST STUFF IS FREE: There’s no ticket necessary to explore city streets or hang out in the park, of course. However, don’t forget that some attractions are free, too. Ask at the tourist information center for free activities, free (or discounted) museum admission, and free walking tours. In Berlin, for example, there is plenty of free music and several free museums, while Munich also has plenty of free things to do.

AVOID THE MULTIPLEX IN BERLIN: In Berlin, Sony CineStar Multiplex on Potsdamer Platz plays movies in English, but prices for admission and snacks are much higher than in the smaller movie theaters in town.

Instead, check out a Yorck Kinogruppe movie theater. This small cinema chain plays many films in OmU (Original mit Untertiteln, which means in the original language with German subtitles). Prices for both tickets and snacks are lower and the atmosphere is more charming. However, they tend towards art-house fare, so if more in the mood for a Hollywood blockbuster, you’ll have to head to Sony CineStar.

CHECK OUT THE BOX OFFICE: If you’d like to check out an opera or a play, it’s worth dropping by an hour before the performance starts. If any tickets are remaining for the performance, you can often purchase them at a heavily discounted price at the Abendkasse (box office).

CULTURE JUNKIE? CONSIDER A PASS: If you’re staying for a few days in a city and want to hit up a lot of museums and attractions, consider buying a tourist sightseeing card or pass. These passes often include free (or highly discounted) admission to popular museums, public transit access, and other discounts. Some popular passes include the Berlin Museum Pass, the KölnCard for Cologne, and the Munich CityTourCard.

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF FREE MUSEUM DAYS: Many museums in Germany offer free admission on certain days of the month or during specific hours. For example, many Berlin museums are free on the first Sunday of each month. Research these opportunities before your trip to save on cultural experiences.

Save on dining in Germany

Of course, there’s beer (and lots of it), but Germany also has a variety of cuisines, from classic German to international flavors. Eating out can be affordable, and there are plenty of places to grab cheap snacks.

AVOID YOUR HOTEL’S MINIBAR: That stocked minibar in your hotel room will cost you. Instead, head straight to the nearest grocery store for basics, like water, fruit, picnic supplies, and toiletries. In Germany, look for supermarket chains like Aldi and Lidl.

FEAST AT LUNCH: If you’re in the city center, many restaurants offer business lunch deals which get you a lot of food for less dough. However, if you’re in a very touristy part of town, seek out places on side streets rather than the main drag to avoid getting had by a tourist trap.

Related: Simple ways to save on dining and restaurants in Berlin

HIT UP THE BAKERIES: In Berlin, dinner prices don’t necessarily go any higher than lunch prices at most restaurants. A good tip: Pick up a sandwich on the go for lunch at one of the scores of bakeries you’ll pass, then go out for dinner in a less touristy neighborhood. Here are 5 bakery treats to try in Munich.

CHECK OUT FARMER’S MARKETS ON SATURDAYS: In many places in Germany, Saturday is still the traditional market day, and sometimes Wednesday too. You’ll usually find these markets on the main squares in towns and every neighborhood in cities. These farmer’s markets are nice for a stroll and fresh produce as well as a tasty, inexpensive lunch.

BE SURE TO ASK FOR “LEITUNGSWASSER”: Unless you specifically ask, it’s not common to get tap water automatically delivered to your table during a meal. If you’d like to have some, be sure to ask for Leitungswasser (tap water), otherwise, the waiter will likely bring you pricey mineral water.

BEER IS NICELY PRICED: Germany is famous for its beer, and it’s always the least expensive alcoholic beverage on the menu. Different regions have different brewing traditions, so try different local brews while you travel around. But don’t forget to sample a glass of German wine, especially if you’re in the Rhine valley, which is famous for delicious Rieslings.

GO EASY ON THE TIP: Know when to tip in Germany. For small stuff (coffee, beer at the bar, etc.) no tip is necessary. In general, you should tip 10% in restaurants — hand the waiter or waitress the tip directly when paying the bill, don’t leave it on the table. Taxi drivers and tour guides should also be tipped around the same amount.

TRY STREET FOOD: German street food is delicious and budget-friendly. Look for currywurst stands in Berlin, döner kebab shops nationwide, and local specialties like Flammkuchen in the southwest. These offer a quick, cheap, and authentically German dining experience.

Shopping

WINTER AND SUMMER SALES: Take advantage of the city-wide annual sales (“Schlussverkauf“) that are held throughout Germany in January and July. These events stretch for weeks in the winter and heat of summer, and nearly every retailer gets in on the action.

FLEA MARKETS: Both Berlin and Munich are well known for their flea markets, which take place all over the city on the weekend. You can find everything here from clothes to vintage toys to DDR memorabilia (in Berlin). Flea markets tend to have their own special flair and sometimes are only held on Saturdays, so be sure to do your research to find out which ones you’re interested in.

Related: Tips for saving big on shopping in Berlin

OUTLET SHOPPING: If you’re looking for brand-name items at discounted prices, consider visiting outlet centers. Popular ones include the Designer Outlet Berlin and Ingolstadt Village near Munich. These can offer significant savings on both German and international brands.

Staying in touch

It’s easier than you think to call and email friends and family back home when you’re in Germany. You don’t even need a special calling plan from your carrier!

SIM SAVINGS: Planning to use your smartphone? We recommend buying a SIM card if you have an unlocked smartphone handy. Calls, emails, and the web will be much , much cheaper. Even if you don’t own an unlocked phone, you can purchase one cheaply in Germany or before you leave. Here’s how it works.

CALL YOUR CARRIER: Not planning to make a lot of calls with your phone? At least call your carrier before leaving home to know how much calls, text, and emails will cost you. Consider getting a special international package to avoid surprises (like AT&T’s “Passport” package). Plus, be sure to set up your phone to avoid data drains.

Related: How to use your iPhone in Europe and avoid a billing surprise

GET ONLINE FOR FREE: Use free Wi-Fi whenever possible. Many cafes and international chains (like McDonald’s and Starbucks) offer free Wi-Fi in Germany, as well as municipal buildings, libraries, parks, and some museums. The BVG, Berlin’s public transportation system also now offers free Wi-Fi. Ask at the tourist information center about free Wi-Fi hotspots in town.

USE MESSAGING APPS: To avoid international calling charges, use apps like WhatsApp, Skype, or Facebook Messenger for calls and messages when you have Wi-Fi access or unlimited data. These apps are widely used in Germany and can help you stay in touch for free.

Banks and money tips

Don’t forget to bring your favorite credit card with you to earn points. Try to get one without any fees!

USE ATMS: To get the best deal on getting money in Germany, avoid all currency exchange counters and sketchy looking ATMs. Instead, use official bank ATMs to get the best exchange rates.

CALL YOUR BANK BEFORE LEAVING: First, tell your bank and credit card company that you’ll be traveling (to ensure that your card will work abroad). Ask how much you’ll be charged for ATM withdrawals and purchases. You may find that one of your cards has no foreign surcharge.

Related: Should you buy euros before your trip to Europe?

CONSIDER A TRAVEL-FRIENDLY CARD: Travel a lot? Consider a credit card specifically designed for international travel. These often have no foreign transaction fees and may offer travel rewards or insurance benefits.

More information

Want to read more? Check out our top-rated budget hotels in Berlin and Munich, or search hotels in hundreds of cities throughout Germany.
For more tips, visit our Germany guide or read more about 12 easy ways to save in Berlin.

Your tips

Do you have additional ways to save money on your trip to Germany? Share with us in the comments section below!

The post Germany Budget Travel Guide: 55 Ways to save on your trip in 2024 appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

With its university, literary links that stretch from Alice in Wonderland to Harry Potter, and its quintessentially English pursuits, such as punting on the river, it’s easy to see why Oxford has charmed many.

The city is small enough to explore on foot but large enough that you can spend a few days without getting bored.

More UK tips:
• How to visit Stonehenge on a budget 
• When (and when not) to tip in Britain
• A London seaside escape: A low-cost guide to Margate

Oxford budget tips

What’s the downside? Well, because of its popular attractions and proximity to London, Oxford is not always a cheap city to visit. But we’ve pulled together a few tips so you don’t have to lose out and to help make a stay a bit more affordable.

How to get there

Oxford is well served by public transport. You can take the airline bus from Heathrow (£23 single) or Gatwick airport (£28 single) directly to Oxford. Services run throughout the night too.

If you are traveling from London, there are regular trains from Paddington station, which take about an hour. However, a cheaper option is to take a bus. The Oxford Tube picks up from Victoria, Marble Arch, Notting Hill and Shepherd’s Bush, while the X90 picks up from Victoria, Marble Arch and Baker Street. Both take around 1 hour 40 minutes and cost around £15 for a round-trip ticket.

When to go

Oxford is charming all year round. But, for the cheapest deals, try and avoid the boom months of July and August and, whenever you go, book your hotel well ahead of time.

What to see

The great news for budget travelers is that Oxford historic center is best explored on foot. There’s a lot of pleasure to be had from wandering its twists and turns. Keep your eyes open for the Bridge of Sighs, so named because of its supposed resemblance to the Venetian original.

Free walking tours
Learn more about Oxford by taking one of the free walking tours available from Footprint Tours. Running several times every day of the summer months, they take about two hours. Even better: once finished you get a sticker entitling you to discounts in several Oxford places.

Visiting the colleges
Another must-see is the colleges that form Oxford University and give the city its unique feel. With 38 in total, you’ll never see them all, so pick carefully. Only some colleges allow entry to tourists and many charge admission. Christ Church is the most well-known — especially as its dining hall and grand stairs inspired the look of Hogwarts in the Harry Potter films — but it’s also the most expensive to visit, costing £10 entrance at peak times (July and August).

If you want to get a sense of an Oxford college, but aren’t so fussed about which, All Soul’s, Corpus Christi and Lincoln College are all free to enter and have gorgeous buildings and grounds. You can see a full list of colleges, opening hours and charges here.

Books, books, and more books
The Bodleian Library is one of Oxford’s star attractions and a bibliophile’s dream, containing over 11 million printed items. You need to take a tour to enter, however, and a standard 60-minute tour is £9, with no concessions available. Taking the 30-minute ‘mini’ tour for £5 instead is a slight saving or you can upgrade for a 90-minute tour for£15. All tours are first come, first served.

Missed out on the Bodleian? Booklovers can seek consolation in Blackwell’s bookshop. It stocks over 200,000 titles – browsing is free, but we won’t be accountable for the amount spent on books!

Visiting free museums
A boon for budgets travelers is Oxford’s excellent free museums. The Ashmolean Museum has an amazing collection, spanning everything from Anglo-Saxon discoveries to modern Chinese art. For a more esoteric experience, check out the Pitt Rivers Museum, a unique collection of archeological and anthropological items. Modern Art Oxford caters for more contemporary tastes.

Where to eat

Head to the city’s historic covered market for top budget eats. There you’ll find Pieminister selling deliciously filling British pies. A traditional steak and ale treat costs £5; sides such as mashed potato and mushy peas are extra.

Order up a pie with minty peas, mash and gravy from Pieminister. Photo: Dani Lurie

Another option is the takeaway-only Alpha Bar, where it’s possible to grab lunch for around £5. Specializing in sandwiches and salads, they also have daily warm specials like a tasty-sounding lamb shoulder.

Finally, for those with a sweet tooth, swing by Ben’s Cookies for generous cookies, priced by weight. Warm from the oven, they’re at their best eaten fresh and gooey.

Outside of the market, Mission Burrito has a couple of locations in Oxford, and a satisfying burrito costs under £6. Also worth checking out is The Companion Café and Bread Bar. It’s slightly pricier but does delicious breakfast and sandwiches using the local Natural Bread Company’s own sourdough.

Where to drink

For a drink in a pub that has plenty of stories to tell, seek out the Turf Tavern — its foundations date back to the 13th century and, rumor says it’s where Bill Clinton famously didn’t inhale. The pub itself is a charming, low-ceilinged affair, with a large outside area. With a well-priced selection of drinks and free Wi-Fi, it’s a definite winner.

The Jam Factory’s previous life was as a factory where Frank Cooper’s marmalade was made. It’s now an arts center with its own restaurant and bar and has a happy hour on drink every day from 3 pm until 7 pm. As a bonus, take one of the many classes or even join the scrabble group that meets here regularly.

Where to stay

Just like finding a cheap room in London, Oxford can be a bit tricky to find a good hotel at a good price. But there are several options, from affordable bed and breakfasts to popular hostels with dorm beds and private rooms. Search over 80 hotels in Oxford to find the best rates. Just remember to book as far in advance as possible, as the best deals fill up fast.

A few of our picks include:

Golden Cross Guesthouse
This charming stay is a nice choice for those Cheapos willing to share a kitchen and a bathroom. Select rooms come with views of the city, and the hospitable owners make for a friendly stay.

Lake Street Accommodation
These family-run apartment-style rooms score high with visitors. The neighborhood location puts you close to a lovely footpath when you want some fresh air. A double room with a private bathroom goes for just over $100 per night.

Central Backpackers
If you don’t mind sharing a dorm room, you can stay at this popular hostel for around $20. It’s located in the city center and has a rooftop terrace.

Another way to get a taste of Oxford life is to stay in a college overnight. Many rooms in Oxford colleges are available outside term time, at prices starting at £30 a night. Book in advance and avoid the weekend for the cheapest stay. Check out University Rooms Oxford for more information.

Have you been to Oxford? What are your budget tips?

The post Budget guide for visiting Oxford, England appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Full of granite edifices with greenery springing out of hidden crevices and decorated with gargoyles, in our opinion, Santiago is one of the most beautiful cities in Spain.

Its maze of streets is packed with quirky shops, ancient churches, monasteries, and charming plazas. The pedestrianized medieval old town has recently been added to UNESCO’s list of World Heritage sites. Add to that a multitude of options to eat and sleep on the cheap, and you’ve got a budget paradise. Let’s explore, Cheapos!

Related:
• 50 Ways to save on your trip to Spain

Visiting Santiago de Compostela on a budget

Getting there and getting around

While there aren’t any direct US flights to Santiago, you can fly on budget airlines from cities around Spain and the rest of Europe. Round-trip flights from Barcelona start at around €30.

That said, depending on your dates, you may want to just spring for a round-trip ticket to Santiago with a stop in a major European hub. At the time of writing, we found a round-trip itinerary with Iberia for €684 with a connection in Madrid.

Most of what you’ll want to see in Santiago is located around the city’s historic medieval core referred to locally as the “zona monumental,” and you can walk from one end to the other in about 15 minutes flat (if you don’t get distracted on the way). Should you want to venture further afield to something in the city’s modern quarter, it’s only a leisurely walk or short bus ride away.

Cheap and free things to do in Santiago de Compostela

One of the best free things to do in Santiago de Compostela is just walking around la zona monumental and getting lost. It seems like no matter how many times you walk around the old town, you always stumble upon something new — maybe a Galician gaitero (or bagpiper), your new favorite dive bar, or even just vendors handing out free samples of Santiago cake.

Another good choice on a budget? One of the city’s parks and a picnic. Start by shopping for some goodies at Santiago’s Mercado de Abastos, and then head to Alameda Park for some nice views of the old town and the cathedral. While you’re there you can pay your respects to a curious local monument known as the Dos Marias, a tribute to two ladies who garnered fame in the 1950s and ’60s for dressing up in wild clothes and flirting with college students.

Looking for a more challenging hike? Take the one-hour climb up Monte Pedroso for a panoramic view of Santiago and surrounding areas.

Museums

If you’re one of those folks who likes to check out a few museums wherever you go, Santiago has a few worth visiting, especially on free days. The Pilgrimage Museum, where you can learn everything you always wanted to know about St. James Way and other pilgrimages from around the world. It is free Saturdays after 2:30 pm and all day on Sundays.

If you’d rather learn about Galician history, try free Sundays at the Museo do Pobo Galego — even if you don’t care about the artifacts, it’s housed in a historic Convent.

Finally, don’t leave without touring the Cathedral. It’s 100% free to check out the relic of Saint John, the Portico de Gloria, and the Corticela chapel (although in spring and summer you may have to wait in line). If you can, plan to catch a mass at noon — you might get to see the famous Botafumeiro, a massive 170-pound-plus incense holder swung around.

For more tips, you can check out the official tourism website for Santiago de Compostela.

Inexpensive Eats in Santiago

Santiago may just be the perfect place to feast on a budget. Great grub and potent alcohol come at very reasonable prices here. Cheapos will also be very happy to hear that the long-held tradition of a free tapa with your drink (alcoholic or otherwise) at a bar is still observed.

That said, as a general rule, if you’re too close to the cathedral, and the menu is in three or more languages, you’re probably in a tourist trap. Most places around town offer up Galicia’s best-known fare — octopus, savory pies, and Santiago cake, but that doesn’t mean what they’re offering is the best quality or price.

For some of Santiago’s best octopus, known locally as pulpo á feira, head to the unassuming Bodegón Os Concheiros (Rúa de Berlin, 3) where the octopus is freshly made, as opposed to the rubbery reheated nonsense you find in some bars around Spain and expect to spend €8 to 10 for a feast of tapas with friends.

Some other good budget options are A Moa on Rúa de San Pedro and O Cabalo Branco at Praza da Pescadería Vella.

For a nice cup of coffee or tea with a slice of rich almondy Santiago cake, or thick Spanish chocolate with churros fried in house, head to Café Iacobus (Rúa da Senra, 24).

Or for a heartier snack, stop by Colmado Victoria (Rúa do Hórreo, 53) and pick up a slice (or a whole pie to share) of Galician empanada with codfish and raisins.

Hotel Alda Algalia is a charming boutique hotel just a few minutes from the cathedral. Photo: EuroCheapo/Booking.com

Cheap hotels in Santiago de Compostele

Lodging is very affordable in Santiago de Compostela, although rooms can fill up far in advance. Pilgrims who make the trek tend to plan ahead, so you should do the same.

If you don’t mind hostels, bunks start at around €12 per person per night.

One of our favorite hotels is the cozy Hotel Alda Algalia, located right in Santiago’s old town. Ancient stone walls and exposed wood beams add character to this highly-rated stay where rooms with private bathrooms start at around $100 per night.

If you’re traveling with family or in a group, a triple or quadruple room would be a good bet —centrally located digs start at around €95 for rooms with four beds.

Know your dates? Search for affordable rooms at more than 200 hotels in Santiago de Compostela.

Your budget tips for Santiago de Compostele

Have you been to Santiago de Compostela? Share your tips in the comments below!

The post Spain: A Budget travel guide to Santiago de Compostela appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

It also makes an excellent destination for budget travelers. It has historic streets galore, impressive Gothic architecture, and plenty of free attractions to keep you busy. Plus, if you have the Amsterdam City Card, entry to a few Haarlem museums are now included. There are also lots of affordable restaurants and tons of fun shopping options.

Best of all, adorable and quaint Haarlem is just a 20-minute train ride from Amsterdam Central station, making it an easy day trip, overnight, or affordable home base for those visiting Amsterdam by day. Some tourists just come for its lower-priced hotels and quiet vibe, then commute by train into “the city” in the morning and evening.

Getting there

The train from Amsterdam Central station is the simplest way to Haarlem, with frequent trips every 10 or 15 minutes. Round-trip tickets cost about €8.20.

Beach Tip: For an extra special getaway, buy a round-trip from Amsterdam to Zandvoort aan Zee for €10.80. This North Sea beach destination is a mere 10 minutes more from Haarlem. Trains go either direct from Amsterdam Central, or include a change in Haarlem. Spend a day in the two areas by starting with a morning beach session and ending with an evening around town. If plans change on the fly, bus No. 81 rides from Haarlem Central to Zandvoort aan Zee in half an hour for about €3.

Related: Pros and cons of the Amsterdam & Region Day Ticket

Catch a ride into town (or just rent your own!). Photo: chelmsfordblue

Things to do in Haarlem

Getting to Haarlem’s center is a 10-minute walk from the station. Exit the bus station side (look for the Starbucks), and head down either Kruisweg or Jansstraat. Either choice spits you right out at the Grote Markt.

Strolling the historic streets and gardens

Jansstraat is lined with enough impressive 17th- and 18th-century homes and buildings to be deemed one of the city’s historic streets. Be sure to check out the 12th-century Janskerk (Jansstraat 40) and St. Barbara women’s hospital, which dates from the 1430s (Jansstraat 54).

Additionally, Bakenessergracht and Spaarne, which run along the river toward the Adriaan Windmill, are two more notable historic streets that are worth a wander. Throughout the city you’ll notice small courtyards around private houses and old buildings. There are “hofjes”, or small gardens, and are open to the public for free to peruse and admire the peaceful vibe and greenery.

Kruisweg is a shopping street full of bakeries and boutiques. Grab some fries at the organic potato shack Friethoes (Kruisweg 43).

Corrie Ten Boom house (free)

Most notably, Kruisweg leads to the home of the Corrie Ten Boom House – a family that helped hide and protect more than 800 Jews during the Nazi Occupation, until they were betrayed in 1944. Named after the family’s only survivor, the home is now a free museum, much like the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam, where visitors can walk through the home and hiding areas that resemble its time during the Occupation.

Grote Markt is the center of Haarlem where tourists and locals mix. Photo: zemistor

Main square: Grote Markt

The heart of Haarlem, the central market square (“Grote Markt”), is topped by the massive 15th-century Gothic-style Grote Kerk. It’s only €2 to go inside and admire the soaring stained glass windows, graves in the walls, and the gigantic 18th-century St. Bravo Organ.

This bustling open square is lined with other attractions, including the De Hallen Museum of contemporary art, cafes and restaurants (most featuring “tourist prices”).

The Grote Kerk’s St. Bavo organ is a stunner. Photo: bertknot

Archeological museum (free)

Haarlem’s Archeological Museum is located in the celler of Grote Markt’s 17th-century Vleeshaal (meat hall), and is a small museum exhibiting amazing archeological finds discovered throughout Haarlem, some of which date as far back as the Stone Age (4,000 years ago).

Shopping in Haarlem

Shopping is huge in Haarlem, with dozens of independent shops that range from toy stores to department towers. For fun browsing, try visiting the Grote Market on a Saturday, when the square is overtaken by the farmer’s market or Monday’s clothing market.

The main shopping streets include most of the walkways between Gedeempty Oudegracht and the Spaarne River: Barteljorisstraat, Zijlstraat, Gierstraat and Grote Houtstraat, to name a few. Sales are common (and dangerous!), and most accept credit cards.

Eating and drinking in Haarlem

Looking for a terrace to grab a bite with a view? Try the Botermarkt Square, a quaint alternative to the Grote Market, with slightly cheaper drinks and snacks. It’s also a bit more lively, as the locals prefer the more snug and cozy setting.

Nothing compares to the Jopen microbrewery and restaurant that’s housed in the Jopenkerk church. Choose from more than a dozen beers on tap and bottle, plus feast on snacks like homemade fried bitterballen with homemade mustard that (ordered by the piece, €1 each). The lunch menu is decently-priced; expect a beer and burger for about €10.

Also nearby is Woodstone Pizza and Wine (pizzas around €9), but the real cheapo winners are the authentic Crostino Gelateria, and the massive Albert Hein grocery store with its ready-to-eat salads, sandwiches, rotisserie chicken, and more.

The best sandwich shop hands down is Baguetterie Vlaar, a small nook with fresh cheeses and veggies on soft baguettes starting at €2. The corner department store V&D has a gourmet lunch canteen upstairs on the top floor called La Place (Grote Houtstraat 70). Fruit smoothies, stir fry, salad bar, you name it – all affordable and freshly prepared. To compliment the food, the seating area offers spectacular rooftop views of Haarlem.

Near Grote Markt, Sumo (Riviervismarkt 11) is a well-known Japanese place that offers an all-you-can-eat philosophy. For two hours patrons can stuff their faces with dozens of rolls and Japanese-style tapas, like grilled salmon and shrimp tempura. Lunch starts at €19.50 per person, dinner €24.50, excluding drinks.

Music and nightlife

Going out in Haarlem is a blast for those who enjoy taverns and live gigs. For brown cafes, try the authentic Dutch hotspot In de Uiver just off Grote Markt (Riviervismarkt 13). Belgian beer lovers and pub food goers should try the friendly and atmospheric Café Bruxelles (Lange Wijngaardstraat 16).

Vinos will want to check out the retro chic Vigh (Grote Markt 4), but the glasses start at €5. A top choice for a summer spot on the cheap is the city beach bar and food bungalow De Oerkap (Harmenjansweg 95). A hangout spot with a waterfront view, plus sand and beach chairs for catching sun after work, this is really a local’s bar with a location (literally) on the other side of the train tracks, but it’s worth the trip. Snacks and sandwiches start around €4, and pizza is €10.

The main concert hall is the Patronaat (Zijlsingel 2), a big music hall bringing acts from Pink Martini to Pharcyde and Counting Crows. Next door, the Patronaat café has a smaller stage with local gigs that are more on the pop and jazzy side. For a jazz and blues hangout, musicians and locals hang at the small brown bar and jazz club Café Steils (Smedestraat 21) near Grote Markt.

The family-run Amadeus Hotel is a top pick for budget stays in Haarlem. Photo: Booking.com

Affordable hotels in Haarlem

Compared to pricey Amsterdam, Haarlem offers a great hotel bang for your buck. Several affordable hotels are located right in the middle of town, including the Amadeus Hotel, located directly on Grote Markt, with rates as low as €60. From modern boutiques to charming old-world guesthouses, you can search here to see availability for over 100 Haarlem hotels.

Haarlem also makes a suitable alternative for a home base if the best budget Amsterdam hotels are filled up. Remember, Amsterdam is only 20 minutes away by train!

The post A guide to visiting Haarlem, Netherlands on a budget appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.