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

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

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

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

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

US to Europe Flights: Baggage fees

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

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

Please note that the following charges are one-way.

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

Click the airline names for more details about their policies.

Winners and losers

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

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

Aer Lingus

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

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

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Aeroflot

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

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

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Air Canada

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

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

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Air France

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

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

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American Airlines

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

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

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Austrian Airlines

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

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

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British Airways

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

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

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Delta

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

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

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Finnair

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

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

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Iberia

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

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

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Icelandair

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

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

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ITA Airways

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

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

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KLM

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

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

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LOT

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

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

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Lufthansa

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

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

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Olympic Air

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

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

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Swiss Airlines

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

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

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TAP Portugal

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

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

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United Airlines

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

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

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Virgin Atlantic

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

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

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Want more info on airline baggage fees and policies?

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

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

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

Walking or biking around Paris, however, can become a drag when the sky opens up and even the most prepared tourist may be caught off guard. Fear not, there are plenty of things to do in Paris when it rains–if not, do you think so many of us would still live here?

Here are five activities perfect for Paris “when it drizzles”:

1. Museums — but be careful!

Museums seem like an obvious choice, but choose wisely. If you decide to visit the Louvre on a rainy day, you very well may be lined up outside of that big glass pyramid waiting under your umbrella like everyone else who had the same idea.

Instead, try the Carnavalet museum in the Marais which features highlights of Parisian history, and it’s free. Or for €9.50 you could easily spend an entire day in the Hotel des Invalides visiting Napoleon’s tomb and the museum’s collection of war artifacts from medieval times until World War II. The perk? The museum is in French and English.

2. Pompidou Center Library

Everyone heads to the Pompidou Center for their modern art galleries, but if you just need a break from the rain, head to their library which is free of charge. The entrance is along rue de Rénard and any line that may form is rain-free.

Head upstairs to browse the collections or just bring your own book and grab a seat by the large windows overlooking the city and watch the rain fall. There is even a little café, bathrooms, and a covered balcony for smokers.

Related: How to spend three days in Paris

3. Park it at a café

Everyone always wants to play Parisian by passing a few hours sitting at a sidewalk café, and a rain storm provides the perfect excuse. Head to any café and order coffee for €1-3 and kick back.

Going solo is entirely acceptable, just bring a book or a notepad to make yourself look busy while you enjoy the pitter patter of the rain on the sidewalk.

4. Movies!

Movie time was always the perfect rainy day solution when I was a child. In Paris, the cinema is still a great option. Many theaters have special daytime or student prices, just make sure you see the “VO” version, the version original, or else you’ll be getting the version dubbed in French.

Head to the UGC at Bercy, for example, where shows before noon are only €6.70. Rainy mornings are just as bad as rainy evenings, right?

5. Brave it outdoors

If rain doesn’t faze you, then bite the bullet, put on some rain boots, grab an umbrella and take advantage of the fact that the rain scares most tourists away from the city’s most popular sights. A promenade in the rain through the Tuileries or Luxembourg gardens can be spectacular when no one else is around.

As long as you’re feet are fine and you leave your electronics in the hotel or hostel, you can really enjoy Paris during a summer afternoon shower.

Accessories

No matter what you do, plan accordingly. Proper shoes and umbrellas are a must for all seasons in Paris. If you are carrying any documents or important papers, keep them in a waterproof bag or leave them in the hotel safe–nothing is worse than a soggy passport at customs.

Your rainy-day activities

Paris proves, again and again, rain or shine, it’s always one of the most beautiful cities in the world. What are your favorite rainy-day activities? Share with us in the comments section.

Note: This article was updated on July 4, 2014 to reflect price changes.

The post Paris in the Rain: 5 activities for Paris when it drizzles appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Here are a few suggestions from Bryan’s Suggested Reading List:

Laugh at cultural differences: For those looking for a light-hearted cheeky story of an English-speaker in Paris, Stephen Clarke’s “A Year in the Merde” will do just the trick.  A somewhat fictional story of an Englishman opening a tea house, the book offers an irreverent and some (more prudish) readers may say “offensive” look at Parisian life, including love, language, and the title’s namesake merde.  Love it or hate it, it’ll prepare you for some of the more shocking cultural differences.

Nostalgic essays: If sincerity and nostalgia are more your thing, the authors of “Paris Was Ours” will take you to every corner of Paris, from bourgeois chic to refugee bohemia.  Each author offers their personal take on the city during their stays, giving multiple viewpoints from essay to essay.  While some authors may not resonate with you, you’re bound to take away some bit of information, some landmark, or some piece of history that could enlighten your trip.

Delicious tales: Those who read his blog will love David Lebovitz’s “The Sweet Life in Paris,” a chapter by chapter exploration of the cultural differences that marked his expatriation to France.  From learning not to wear PJs even to take out the trash to working as a fish monger, David points out some of the city’s quirks that will help you understand why there are towels sitting in the street gutters…

Love story, with recipes: Elizabeth Bard’s “Lunch in Paris” is another food-centric tell-all about a young American’s instant love affair that leads her to wedding bells in the tenth arrondissement.  Her wit and humor make the book a fun and easy read while discovering the quirks of shopping in a Parisian market or having a crush on your butcher.  These things do happen.

American in Paris: Adam Gopnik’s “Paris to the Moon” is perhaps a favorite about being in Paris, a heartfelt and sincere look at life in this city for an American.  His experiences with his child who grew up as a young boy playing in the Jardin du Luxembourg will strike a chord with parents, and his adaptations to French culture will be good preparation for anyone about to embark on a trip to Paris.

French 101: For history buffs or those afraid of not speaking French, “The Story of French” by Jean-Benoit Nadeau and Julie Barlow is an incredibly accessible introduction to those who don’t know a bonjour from an au revoir.  Far from a French language lesson, the book follows the history of the French language and helps, or attempts, to explain why the French might get so offended when foreigners don’t speak their language, or even try.  There is apparently some method to the madness, so read in tandem with some Rosetta Stone!

Your favorite Paris books?

Have a favorite title to add to our Paris-themed book list? Share with us in our comments section.

The post Paris: 6 books to read before your visit appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Neighborhoods around town have seemingly emptied out and the usually crowded parks and picnic spots have a surplus of vacant space for those left behind. Welcome to Paris in August.

Related: When’s the cheapest time to visit Europe?

The benefits of visiting Paris in August…

While not the ghost town the city once was reputed to be during the August break, there are still many perks to visiting Paris with slightly fewer Parisians.

First off, more local, less touristy neighborhoods feel downright deserted. For example, the banks of the Canal St-Martin are quieter, leaving more space to stretch out with a bottle of wine and some beers on the hot summer evenings. The lines for a Pink Flamingo pizza are short, meaning less wait time as you grip your balloon, eagerly anticipating the delivery boy who brings a pizza to you on the canal’s banks.

Jogging and sunbathing in the city’s lesser known parks are simply marvelous in August. The park Buttes Chaumont in the 19th arrondissement is only half filled with a few stragglers; the packed lawns are showing more green than ever as the sprinklers work their magic across large empty swatches of lawn. A sunny July day would have told a different story.

And then there are the restaurants. After calling ahead for a reservation at a usually filled-up establishment in the heart of Paris, I was surprised to arrive with my guests and find our voices to be the only ones echoing from the walls during the lunch hour. While the super-trendy restaurants may still have long waits, many restaurants that remain open during the August vacation will be overjoyed to have your business.

…and the downsides of an “empty” Paris in August

However, when the Parisians head to the beaches and country homes, they take their shop keys with them. The downside to having a Paris without locals is a seemingly endless list of closings from my favorite bakery to my favorite pastry shop.

Shopping becomes difficult as clothing boutiques, chocolate shops, and fromageries all shut their doors for several weeks. Even famed ice cream parlor Berthillon takes a summer vacation (though their ice cream is still available from second-hand sellers across the Ile St-Louis!).

While not the ideal period to see Parisians in their natural state, August can be a magical time to traipse the streets of the city, which seem like they belong to you and you alone. While the city dwellers are off soaking up in the sun in Tunisia or Cannes, those of us left behind will take advantage of the added calm, the slightly cheerier aura, and the subtle but marked decrease in dog poo on the sidewalk that signals vacation time for the locals.

At the end of the month, all of the Parisians will come flooding back, the parks will fill up again, the stores will reopen, and there is a much greater chance that you will step in some merde by mid-September as the canine Parisians resume their daily routines. But hey, they say it’s good luck in some parts of the world…

Also in our guide: If you’re heading to Paris in August or any other month, be sure to swing by our hotel guide to read reviews of our favorite budget hotels in the city. We inspect the best affordable hotels, then recommend only those that we feel are a good deal.

The post Paris without Parisians: The pros and cons of visiting Paris in August appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

While walking down Avenue Montaigne in Paris and checking out the Chanel and Givenchy shops, I get self-conscious. This is why I rarely walk down that particular street. Fashion is a quintessential part of Parisian culture, whether we like it or not.

Alas, if I’m not going to wear designer clothes in Paris, I should at least make sure that the clothes I do wear are clean. Tourists making their way across Europe will often feel the need to stop in at the local laundry facility after hours spent on planes and trains, but there are a few tips to keep in mind.

1. Know the difference between “laverie” and “pressing.”

I have never dry-cleaned anything in Paris, but if I wanted to, I’d go to the pressing. Here you can also pay a premium and let someone else do all of the dirty work, while you hit the Louvre and pick it up later.

Otherwise, if you want to do it yourself, you’re looking for the laverie. These laundromats can be found in every neighborhood, are full of washers and dryers, and are usually open from the morning until around 7 or 8 p.m. Ask at your hotel for the nearest laverie.

2. Bring along some patience.

One thing to keep in mind is that a wash cycle in a front loading French washing machine will take a while.  Count on 40-50 minutes of washing followed by 20 minutes of drying. Every laverie varies slightly.

Weekends are an especially busy time to do laundry, so if you can, think about going during a weekday morning to avoid the locals who are getting errands done while not at the office over the weekend.

The wait for a dryer can be particularly painful in the wintertime when hanging clothes out to dry is hardly a possibility. Otherwise, skip the dryers and hang up your linens back in the hotel if you have the opportunity. In the summer they’ll be dry within hours.

3. Be prepared to pay.

Unfortunately there are no passes or discounts when it comes to doing laundry. We’re all equal in the eyes of the laverie. Prices for washing will depend on the size of the machine you use, with larger ones costing up to €6 or €7 for a wash.

Drying is usually by the hour, so expect to pay about a euro for 5-10 minutes of hot air and tumbling. It can all start to add up, so come with plenty of coins!

4. Buy detergent there or at the supermarket.

Depending the laverie, detergent is usually available from a dispenser. If you need other products, however, the supermarket does sell both liquid and powder detergent relatively cheaply. Look for the word “lessive,” which means detergent. Common brands are Skip and Persil, amongst others.

If you want fabric softener, which is the only way to make your clothes feel like they actually got clean, a bottle will set you back a few euros but it will last a long time. It might be worth asking your hotel or hostel desk if they have any, to avoid buying a whole bottle for one load. Look for the brand “Cajoline” (Snuggle, in English) to find the other assouplissants.

5. Be smart and safe.

Keep in mind that laundromats are public places where anyone can enter and that there are rarely any personnel present. In the winter, these auspiciously warm indoor areas can attract some unsavory characters looking for a respite from the cold. While usually harmless, these loiterers hanging out in laveries, especially if drinking, could be intimidating, so keep your wits about you.

Also, if you are going to take a walk while your clothes dry, be sure to set a timer so you return before the dryer stops. Some impatient locals will have no problem taking out your fresh clothes and plopping them on top of a dirty machine. It’s also impolite to keep other people waiting for a machine.

Your laundry tips

Have any advice or questions about doing laundry in Paris? Share with us in our comments section.

Also in our guide: If you’re also looking for advice on affordable places to sleep while you’re in Paris, be sure to read through our editors’ picks. Each of our picks has been visited, inspected and approved by EuroCheapo. Read more in our Paris guide and be sure to see our advice on where to stay during your visit.

The post Paris: 5 tips for doing laundry in Paris appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

I’ve learned two important lessons about travel in Barcelona and Spain in general: 1) It will cost more than you think, and 2) It will take longer than you planned. With these golden rules in mind, I offer some tips for saving minutes while visiting Barcelona.

1. Know your restaurant and make a reservation.

This is especially true if you have food allergies or a special diet. There are many places to get the scoop on where to dine in Barcelona, from right here on EuroCheapo to sites like Yelp. Find something that looks appetizing in your neighborhood and book a table. This will save you lots of time wandering around looking for a place that fits your budget, has a menu you like and isn’t packed.

Don’t be afraid to ask for directions. Photo: Bastian

While booking a table is a good idea any night, it’s an especially wise move Thursday-Saturday when the locals go out. Also keep in mind that Sunday lunch is a popular time to eat out and plan accordingly.

2. No reservation? Eat “early.”

If you can’t make a reservation then just get there early. People in Barcelona eat lunch at 2 p.m. and dinner between 9 p.m. and 10 p.m. Get there at 1 p.m. or 8:30 p.m. and beat the rush.

3. Grab lunch “to go” or at the bar.

Sitting down for lunch is a lengthy affair that can take hours. Service can be slow, and meals are served in courses stretching out the experience. This is something most of us love about Spain, the focus on enjoying one’s food, but if you’re short on time then it’s best to skip it.

Instead grab lunch in a cafe or simply get something to go and eat on a park bench.

In a cafe, if you sit at the bar you will get faster service as you are right in front of the barman. Most cafes serve sandwiches and salads plus an array of beverages.

What’s more, eating in a cafe is sure to be cheaper than sitting down for lunch in a restaurant. A sandwich and drink may set you back €5 where a “menu del dia” midweek at a restaurant will cost double or triple. Cafes and bakeries also have sandwiches ready to go around lunch time, so grabbing one of these on a sunny day will save you bundles of time.

4. Ask for directions.

Barcelona is a big city and it’s easy to get lost. While Barcelona locals are not known for being super friendly, they are sure to help the lost traveler as best they can. Just ask.

When I was recently in Dublin I was struggling with a map and a local came over and said, “Need directions?” I thought I was hallucinating. That sort of thing is not going to happen in Barcelona, but if approached, people will help.

All geese and no tourists in the courtyard of Barcelona’s cathedral in January. Photo: Ben in CHI

Getting lost can take a lot of time out of your day plus make you feel frustrated and tired. Many people speak enough English to give directions in Barcelona so don’t let the language scare you off.

(P.S. A friend of mine always goes into hotels to ask for directions when she is lost in any European city. She figures they should know!)

5. Visit off season.

From May to August Barcelona is swimming with tourists. Everything is more crowded in the center of town and at popular monuments. If you want to experience Barcelona with less of a wait, come in the fall or winter.

Sure, it may rain and it might not be great swimming weather. But on the flip side, attractions will be easier to get into and hotels will be less expensive, offering low-season rates.

6. Understand and use the Metro.

Barcelona’s transportation system is really quite good. It’s on time (for the most part) and connects all points of the city. It is quite often the fastest way to get around because cabs are subject to traffic jams, as is the bus.

Get yourself a Metro map at the tourist information center in Pl. Catalunya and study it a bit to see where you can make transfers from one station to the next. It’s not hard once you get used to it.

Also, have a multi-ride Metro card (I recommend the T-10 for short visits to the city) for the Metro and bus. This will save you time in that you will not have to line up to buy a ticket every time you get on public transportation. (Read more in our “Getting Around Barcelona” article.)

Your time-saving tips?

What other ways have you saved time in Barcelona? We’d like to hear any additional tips! Share with us in the comments section.

Also in our guide: One sure way to save time before you arrive in Barcelona is to take our advice when hunting down an affordable hotel. Our editors have visited, inspected and reviewed the best budget hotels in Barcelona, all of them central, clean and cheap. Read more in our Barcelona guide.

The post Barcelona: 6 ways to save time when visiting appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

If you’re trying to decide between AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile as carriers for your iPhone or other unlocked smartphone, consider the differences in their rate plans for using these devices in Europe.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the differences. (Rates updated in April 2015.)

AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile: iPhone Abroad Comparison

This chart is an overview of the differences in plans offered by Verizon, AT&T and T-Mobile for American customers using their smartphones in Europe.

For much for on this subject, read our articles below:

Our Guide to using an American smartphone in Europe

Using an American iPhone in Europe… without Going Broke

How to buy a SIM card in Europe for your phone

Tips for AT&T Customers

Tips for Verizon Customers

Tips for Windows, Android and Blackberry Customers

Setting up your phone to avoid a billing “surprise”

The post iPhone in Europe: Comparing AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile’s plans appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

If you’re an AT&T customer planning to use your smartphone abroad, you have some choices to make before you leave home. These will impact how you use your phone and how much you’ll be charged. These choices include whether or not you expect to use your iPhone abroad to:

• Phone: place and receive international phone calls

• Text: send and receive text messages

• Web: browse the web and check emails on your phone

• Apps: use iPhone applications.

AT&T offers one comprehensive “package” to address each issue. Note that AT&T recently made some big changes to their international offerings when they introduced the add-on International Day Pass package. If you were used to the old options (separate packages for texting, calling, data, etc.), you’re in for a surprise, as they’ve all been bundled together.

Also, please note: If you’re serious about smartphone savings while traveling, be sure to read our guide to buying a SIM card in Europe for American phones. Using a European SIM card requires you to unlock your phone (or bring along a cheapo unlocked phone to use), and can lead to big savings.

AT&T’s International Day Pass

AT&T offers one add-on plan, called the International Day Pass, for international usage. This package is added on top of whatever monthly charges you currently incur. To get these rates, call AT&T before taking off and have them add the package to your plan. You may also log in to your AT&T account and add the International Day Pass yourself. It is possible to have them add the plan from abroad, but it’s a better idea to set it up before taking off.

(Note: This package does not expire. Instead, it only activates when you use your phone outside of the U.S. However, double check once home to make sure that the plan has paused and that you’re not still paying for it!)

Here are the details for AT&T’s International Day Pass plan for iPhone and Android phone use throughout Europe:

• Price: $10 per day for up to 10 days, and 50% off each additional line. After 10 days, each additional day is free so long as you are within one billing cycle. The pass resets during a new billing cycle.
• Text: Unlimited SMS
• Calls: Unlimited to the U.S., within the country you are located, and countries included in the International Day Pass list
• Data: Unlimited if you have an unlimited plan, otherwise, it’s the same amount as your current data package

Note that the International Day Pass charges you $10 each day that you use call, text, voicemail, or data features on your phone. Once the 24 hours are up, it resets and will only charge you another day if you access those features. You won’t be charged if you take a digital detox for part of your trip.

Another crucial thing to note is that this pass works with your billing cycle. If you pay for a full 10 days and then your billing cycle resets and you use the International Day Pass for another 10 days, the cost will apply to each billing cycle.

For more information on the International Day Pass stipulations, check out this FAQ from AT&T.

Making telephone calls from abroad

If you plan to use your phone to make and receive calls, the International Day Pass allows unlimited free calls to the U.S., within the country you are staying, and to more than 100 countries included on this list.

Cheapo tips

• Placing and receiving: Don’t forget that you’ll be charged the International Day Pass daily fee for placing and receiving calls. Even if you answer the phone and say, “Don’t call me, I’m in Florence! (click),” you’ll be charged $10 for the following 24 hour period.

• Voicemail: Yes, listening to your voicemail will cost you, as you’ll need to connect to your carrier.

• Use Skype instead of calling: For calling home, I prefer to use the Skype app on my phone when I have a free Wi-Fi connection. Using Skype (or other apps, such as Google Talk), you can call another user for free, or call a telephone for just pennies per minute.

• Texting: I recommend using text messages in place of short phone calls, whenever possible, but note that the International Day Pass includes unlimited SMS texts only, not iMessage. Using iMessage on your iPhone will count toward your data package, which may or may not be unlimited depending on your usual plan. More details on this below.

• Data roaming: If you don’t want to be charged the $10 fee for the International Day Pass on certain days, don’t forget to deactivate your data roaming. (See more tips for how to set up your iPhone when traveling abroad.)

Sending and receiving text messages

As for texting, without a plan, it costs $.50 to send text messages throughout much of Europe ($1.30 if the message includes a photo or video). However, AT&T’s package offers free unlimited texting. This is good news for those of us who rely upon texting to communicate while traveling.

What about receiving text messages? You’ll pay for these just as you would for receiving a text message back home. If you have unlimited texting, you’ll be able to receive unlimited texts abroad at no extra charge.

Cheapo tips

• Using iMessage: What about just using iMessage or another messaging app to send text messages while traveling? You could do that, but don’t forget that you’ll only be able to send and receive these messages when you’re running the app. Thus, either you have to fire up the app and use expensive data (not recommended unless you have an unlimited data package and thus unlimited data for the International Day Pass), or you’ll have to connect to a Wi-Fi network. The latter option will work, but it prevents you from sending and receiving when you’re out and about, resulting in delays in receiving messages.

Using email, browsing the web, and using apps

If you plan to send and receive emails, browse the web or use applications (such as Facebook, Twitter or Instagram), you’re going to want to have the International Day Pass, as you’ll be using data. If you don’t have a package, then you’re strongly cautioned to only use these features when connected to a Wi-Fi network!

AT&T’s International Day Pass offers the same amount of data you have on your regular phone plan. If you have unlimited data, no problem. If you only have a certain amount, here are some estimates of the amount of data required to:

• Send or receive an email (without attachment): Approx. 20 KB per email

• Send or receive an email (with attachment): Approx. 300 KB per email

• Load a webpage: 1 MB per page

• Stream music: 500 KB / minute (30 MB / hour)

• Stream video (standard quality): 2 MB / minute

Cheapo tips

• Using data? Get a package: If you plan to at least check your email every once in a while (without a Wi-Fi connection), I recommend getting the International Day Pass. Checking your email even occasionally without a package will quickly become very expensive.

• Maps use data to load: Maps are confusing, as they require data to initially load, but your GPS location can load without data. Got that? For example, using Wi-Fi, you could load up a map of your neighborhood in London and then, without any data use, pull up that map later and see your location. However, to load a new map with a Wi-Fi connection (or do a search or zoom in), you’ll need to use data. I find this one of the handiest data uses, and another good reason to sign up for the International Day Pass.

Sticking to Wi-Fi

Of course, if you just stick to Wi-Fi for the duration of your trip, you don’t need to add on the International Day Pass. For years I traveled in “Airplane” mode, with my telephone basically disconnected, but my Wi-Fi fired up. This allowed me to use emails, maps, Facebook, Skype, and the internet only when I was connected to a free Wi-Fi network.

That’s still an option. However, be aware of the obvious drawbacks of relying on Wi-Fi: You’re lost without a connection.

These days I opt for the International Day Pass, take advantage of the unlimited texting, make infrequent and short phone calls, and use data to check emails (but never open attachments) and use Google Maps. And I never open other big apps (like Facebook, Skype or Twitter) unless I’m connected to a Wi-Fi network.

Monitor your usage

Even if you opt for the International Day Pass, it’s a very good (even critical) idea to monitor how much data you use, especially if you do not have an unlimited plan for data. Checking data usage is easy on an iPhone. You can see your Cellular Data Usage by clicking into “Settings” –> “Cellular”. Once abroad, the first thing you should do is scroll to the bottom and click on “Reset Statistics”.

You’re set — now stick to your plan, or upgrade if you’re about to go over!

Also in our Guide to Using an American iPhone in Europe:

Using an American iPhone in Europe… without Going Broke

Tips for Verizon Customers

Tips for Windows, Android and Blackberry Customers

Setting up your phone to avoid a billing “surprise”

AT&T vs Verizon: A comparison of international plans

The post iPhone in Europe: Information for AT&T customers appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Here’s a quick round-up of bike rental and tour options available to visitors to Florence:

The Urban Treader

Walking’s not your thing but neither is heavy biking. You’re more into the casual cycle and were once caught riding on the sidewalk in your hometown. You wonder why anyone would want to carry something in a basket and giggle every time you ring the bell.

Then I give you: Florence by Bike. These gentle giants of bike rental speak English and rent bikes by the hour or for the day. They don’t offer tours but will suggest a route for you. This means that you can bike at your leisure. Accessories are all included, but pedal power provided by you. City bikes start at €3 per hour or €14.50 for the day.

Where’s north again?

A recurring nightmare of yours consists of parachuting into the desert with a duffel bag duct-taped around your waist. You love biking but only when you can read the road signs and think that GPS should stand for Guiding People to Safety.

Then join a bike tour! That way you can turn off the worry of not knowing where you are and turn on the pleasures of peeking at Florence from a bicycle. One suggestion is I Bike Florence which offers city tours of all the sights for €29.

I Peddle in my Sleep

You don’t sleepwalk, you sleep peddle. You think trains and buses are just big pollutant versions of the trusty bicycle. Mileage doesn’t scare you, instead it says tons about your “explore score.” Plus, you’ve always wanted to see a real olive tree. Enter the world of Tuscan bike tours.

First there’s Charnes Tours who offer multi-day trips all over the region. They take care of hotels, food and wine-tasting. Prices vary according to itinerary.

For single day tours, try Tuscany Bike Tours which cost €80 per person.

And finally, I Bike Tuscany lets you customize your tour or join one of the pre-planned ones, which will vary according to your level of difficulty. Pricing can be obtained by contacting the company.

So get out there and start peddling. Or else you can always join the eerie Florence unicyclist for a quick round of ring-around-the-Duomo.

Also in our Guide: If you’re getting ready to visit Florence, check out our reviews of cheap hotels in Florence. Our editors have visited, inspected and photographed dozens of budget hotels in central Florence.

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Here’s our overview of the two main museum pass options for Amsterdam:

Museumcard
Website

The Museumcard (in Dutch, Museumkaart) is valid for admission at almost every museum in the country, and covers entrance fees for more than 30 venues in Amsterdam. From the Anne Frank House to the Filmmuseum and Jewish Historic Museum, the Museumcard has your back for all the big guys and more.

Is it expensive? It’s probably one of the best deals in the country. Adults pay €40, kids 18 and under pay €20, and the card is valid for one year. Cardholders can flash their cards and head straight into the museums, whether it’s passing through the Rijksmuseum for a five-minute check up on Rembrandt’s Nightwatch or stopping for a drink at the Van Gogh Museum’s cafe.

Ideally, this card is for the museum junkies who need a daily cultural, historical or art fix during their time in Amsterdam. And it’s perfect for those on a one-week stay or longer. (Obviously, the card is a no-brainer for residents.)

Some tourists on a short stay buy the card and then resell it when they leave. Note that this is against the rules, and that you have to write your name and birth date on the card (no photo is taken). Card checkers, however, are laid-back with this policy. However, we don’t recommend trying this.

The Museumcard’s Web site is in Dutch. Foreign tourists can purchase the card inside major Museums throughout the city.

“I amsterdam” City Card
Website

What was once known as the “Amsterdam pass” has evolved into the catchy “I amsterdam” hook that’s spread like wildfire throughout the city’s bustling tourist shops. It’s a more “all-in-one” package for visitors than the Museumcard, and is a great grab for those who want to see a lot of the main attractions.

The card will not only give you access to museums and free public transportation on trams and buses, it will also offer a free canal cruise and discounts at several gift shops, restaurants, bike rentals and other attractions.

Sounds like a deal? It is, mostly. The Anne Frank House is not included in the list of free museums, but the card covers Van Gogh, Rijks, and many of the smaller-size exhibitions.

The 25% discount on restaurants and rentals list many options, however, most businesses on the roster have a reputation for already offering inflated “tourist prices.” And 25% off an attraction might sound tempting, however “attraction” is synonymous with “waste of time” when it comes to places that are chains throughout Europe (the Dungeon and Ice Bar, for example).

Still, a free cup of coffee at bistro La Place, a free croquette roll at authentic Dutch food bar Van Dobben, 50% off parking and unlimited free public transport are all big pluses.

The prices are reasonable:

24 hours : €59

48 hours : €74

72 hours : €87

96 hours : €98

Read more about the perks of the I am Amsterdam Card.

Your choice?

So what will it be: diving into a sea of rich culture with the Museumcard or sampling the surface of Amsterdam’s fun zone with the City Card? The choice is yours, but remember to weigh time and cost when making your decision.

Have you purchased either pass? Tell us about your experience in the comments section.

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