Like other tourist destinations though, the surreal “City of Bridges” can be a pretty expensive place if you don’t know where to find the cheapest deals and steals. Let me give you a few tips on how to prevent shelling out all your hard-earned money and still have a grand time in Venice.

1. Keep your Stay Cheaper and Hassle-free

Venice was designed to be explored either by foot or by boat. If you choose the latter, purchasing a Venice Connected card online and in advance will save you at least 15 percent from the original price of the public service fees. Services covered by the card include Vaporettos (water buses) and buses, car parks, public rest rooms, and entrance to public museums (no more long lines!)Policies seem complicated and card rates changes often, depending on the season so you might want to check their website.

2. Free Tourist Attractions

Not everything in Venice has an entrance fee. Churches for instance such as Basilica San Marco and Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute are free and will surely amaze everyone for its centuries-old classic architecture, intricately-designed mosaics, and paintings made by great artists. Expect long lines and remember to keep yourself covered and well-behaved when inside church premises.

3. Cheap Venice Destinations

Looking for something inexpensive and authentically Venetian? The smallest of the six siesteres (neighborhoods) in Venice, San Polo west of the Rialto Bridge is packed with souvenir shops and workshops of Venetian artisans. Whether you want to buy a Murano glass ornament, learn what a forcola is, or bargain for a mysterious-looking Venetian mask which will surely look good on your wall; the narrow streets of San Polo is where you should head to!

4. Eat Where the Locals Eat

Grabbing a bite to eat in Venice need not be expensive. Stay away from tourist traps in and around Piazza San Marco. Instead, walk around Venice and find where the locals eat. A good area to start your search is at the Strada Nuova in Cannaregio (second largest siestere), one of the longest and widest streets in Venice. You can find pizzerias and trattorias (a casual eatery) here which sells a delectable plate of pasta for a measly price of €5.

5. Riding a Gondola is a Must!

A gondola ride may cost you around €80 to €120 for a 40 to 60-minute ride. But booking in advance on a private tour can get you half of that price. Still a little bit pricey if you ask me. But nevertheless, it would be perfectly fine to skip a meal or forget buying the souvenirs, just don’t ever, ever miss riding a Gondola. These floating masterpieces are the real essence of Venice!

Top 5 Budget Hotels in Venice

• Nuova Residenza Laguna – Double Room: €45 per night
• Hotel Caneva – 1-Star Hotel – Double Room: €50
• Hotel Città di Milano – 2-Star Hotel – Double Room: €55
• B&B Residenza degli Angeli – Double Room: €45 per night
• Bed & Breakfast Al Saor – Double Room: €55 per night

Photo of restroom entry in Venice, Italy, by Cfinke

Not only is the travel infrastructure slightly more expensive than elsewhere, especially anywhere to the East, but most activities come with a high price as well. This is a short guide of some things to do that are either free or very cheap.

• A visit to Hofburg

The Hofburg is the magnificent former Imperial Palace in the centre of Vienna. There are various museums contained within but these will be of little interest to the budget traveller since they are quite expensive for mediocre experiences, even the National Library charges admission. However, on the inside many of the buildings have been refurbished so that there is little left of their Imperial splendour meaning visitors get more of a feel for the buildings as a palace by remaining outside. The architecture is impressive and the Volksgarten is a gorgeous place to sit back and relax.

• A visit to Zentralfriedhof

Some of the most famous composers in history lived in and around Vienna, which means many of them are still about, buried in the city’s graveyards. The Zentralfriedhof contains the graves of such luminaries as Beethoven, Schubert and both the older and younger Strauss. There are also many more Austrian celebrities whose lives are an enigma to us visitors but learning about their exploits is mostly interesting. Finally, there are two Jewish parts of the cemetery. The older part was systematically trashed by the Nazis but the other one remains in use by the Jewish community of the city.

• The Vienna Prater

Any visitor to Vienna should see the Orson Wells classic The Third Man. Anyone who has will remember the iconic scene in which the Wells character delivers some of the greatest lines in movie history. ‘In Italy for 30 years under the Borgias they had warfare, terror, murder, and bloodshed, but they produced Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and the Renaissance. In Switzerland they had brotherly love – they had 500 years of democracy and peace, and what did that produce? The cuckoo clock.’ These lines were delivered aboard the Riesenrad, a Ferris wheel type ride in the Prater, a park on the eastern side of the city centre. Riding the wheel itself is still possible although for a fee, while wondering in the park is completely free.

• A stroll around the Ringstrasse

A good way to see Vienna is to take a stroll around the Ringstrasse. This route will take you past most of the impressive sights as well as along a part of the Danube canal. Brief sidetracks will take you to the Stadtpark or to cafes or bars for refreshments. If you happen to be unlucky with the weather tram routes cover the complete circle so you can finish the journey without getting too wet.

Top 5 Budget Accommodation in Vienna

• Pension Carantania – 3-Star – Double Room Price: from €41
• Suite Hotel 200m zum Prater – 3-Star -Double Room Price: from €52
• Austria Trend Hotel – 3-Star – Double Room Price: from €50
• Hotel Hadrigan – 3-Star – Double Room Price: from €59
• Pension Dr. Geissler – 3-Star – Double Room Price: from €64

Photo of Euro coins and bank notes by Donaldtownsend

Guides to steer us around the eternal city, Top 5s, and the “Best” lists are as a result plentiful to say the least. But we are often ultimately confronted with the harsh reality of the check: glamorous Roman holidays are potentially by no means cheap. The “best” restaurants are often unaffordable. Or, quite simply, we pay much more than what the food actually deserved. Here are some suggestions for upscale but honest, well-priced and truly enjoyable eats and drinks in Rome and beyond.

1. Tutti Frutti

Via Luca della Robbia, 5,

This unpretentious restaurant in Testaccio is certainly worth the visit. The food is 100% seasonal and fresh- and did I mention delicious? Let the friendly owner talk you through the menu (in English-albeit broken- too!) and indulge in pizzelle as a starter, and certainly eventually in desert- even simply in vin santo with traditional Italian biscotti and chocolate. Price: approx. 20-30€ per person.

2. La Vecchia Locanda

Vicolo Sinibaldi, 2, Tel. 0668802831

Oddly enough this little place is hardly reported on, which is a shame- or perhaps a blessing- because it is truly worthwhile. Tucked away in a little alley behind Largo Argentina, this restaurant serves quality food full of ambiance. The wine list is excellent, and in the summer you can sit outside and enjoy the breeze. The insalata di polpo e patate is a recommended starter, the trofie are a divine first course and the steak cooked in Barolo is also very good if you’re interested in a second course. La Vecchia Locanda is certainly worthwhile in terms of food, quality and service- and won’t break the bank. Price: approx. 25-35€ per person.

3. La Cantina Tirolese

- Via G. Vitelleschi, 23, Tel. 0668135297

If you’re in the mood for a slightly different culinary experience from traditional Italian fare head to La Cantina Tirolese, a restaurant behind Castel Sant’Angelo and St. Peter’s Cathedral specialized in Tyrolean cuisine- yes, that means Italo-Bavarian. The restaurant is, apparently, one of Pope Ratzinger’s favorites. Especially tasty are the knodel, bourguignonne, and if you really want to lead your palate to Bavaria the strudel. Price: approx. 25-35€ per person.

4. Lago di Martignano- Enoteca Spirito Di…Vino

Via Garibaldi 43/45, Trevignano Romano. Tel. 069999085

If you’re in the mood for a fun and relaxing Saturday, take the train (Roma-Viterbo line) to Anguillara Sabazia, take the bus (from Lepanto metro stop, for instance), or drive up the Cassia, if you’re perspicacious enough to have rented a car, and head to Martignano Lake, approximately 30 km from Rome. During the summer it is a veritable beach but lucky for us is not as frequented as Ostia or actual seaside, coastal locations. The scenery is beautiful, you can buy a beer in one of the several kiosks and even enjoy a horseback ride from the nearby Il Casale di Martignano farm and bed and breakfast. You can also rent boats to take across the lake.

Once you’ve had your fill of the lake, head to Trevignano Romano, a small lakeside town on the much larger but nearby Bracciano lake and have dinner at the Enoteca Spirito…Di Vino, a delightful little restaurant on the lakeside. The owners are friendly and talkative and believe in the relaxing, slow food experience- be prepared to be there for 3 hours or more. But it is certainly worth it- the starters are excellent of course but the best treat at Spirito Di…Vino is the fiocchetti filled with caramelized pear on a bed of melted taleggio cheese. And not to be missed are the polpette (meatballs) of veal cooked in white wine. The wines are excellent, and the desserts, especially the cialde, deserve to be eaten. Price: approx. 30€ per person.

3 Rome Hotels with a Restaurant

• Hotel Excel Roma Montemario – 4-star Hotel – Room Price €75
• Hotel H10 Roma Città – 4-star Hotel – Room Price €144
• Hotel Holiday Inn Rome Parco De’ Medici – 4-star Hotel – Room Price €130

Photo of pasta by Rev.Santino

The sprawling city is dotted with a plethora of restaurants to satisfy any desire or taste. From luxurious french cuisine to the corner curry wurst stand you can find a range of great options to fit any budget. However, I am going to focus on the cheaper side where there is still an amazing assortment of great restaurants.

1. Middle eastern restaurant in the Kreutzberg district

First off is an amazing middle eastern restaurant in the Kreutzberg district. Located on Spreewaldplatz across from Goerlitzer park and a few meters from the Goerlitzer Bahnhof on the U1 line is a wonderful little place usually overflowing with people. Perhaps the best schwarma and falafel in Berlin, this place will leave you stuffed and satisfied. Order the plate for 2 if you are with a friend and you will be presented with a giant pile of deliciousness. An abundance of roasted chicken, falafel balls, deep fried feta cheese, humus and a selection of salads will delight your tastebuds. Wash it down with wonderful black tea, offered free of charge with every meal. Best of all a meal for two will be under 10 euro and will probably leave you with leftovers for an after bar snack.

2. Trendy Wine Bar in Prenzlauer Berg

In Prenzlauer Berg, there is a wonderful cafe that has a unique dinning experience. During the day they serve coffee and the typical accompanying pastries as well as wonderful homemade soups for only two euro a bowl. It might be the best deal in town for a midday meal. There are usually two options available with one meat and one vegetarian. As the day turns to dusk the place transforms into a trendy wine bar with a catch – it is based on the honor system. Each guest pays one euro to get a glass and then helps themselves to as much wine as they want – a variety of white and red wines are available as well as some roses and dessert wines. A limited buffet is also offered starting at 8 pm although it is often gone by 8:30. At the end of the evening each person is responsible for paying as much as they feel is appropriate for the amount of food and drink they consumed. You place your payment in a large glass jar and step outside into the cool Berlin night. The cafe sits at the corner of Fehrbelliner Strasse and Veteranenstrasse across for Volkspark am Weinberg.

3. Curry Wurst in Kreutzberg

For our last edible delight I will talk about something that is not necessarily unique in Berlin but rather unique to Berlin. There is nothing quite like a piping hot curry wurst after a night on the town. A fried bockwurst covered in ketchup and curry powder and your choice of sides – I would go for the fried onions – is definitely not the healthiest choice but one of the most satisfying. Although they aren’t hard to find, a great curry wurst is worth seeking out. I would recommend looking in two places. Curry 36 on Mehringdamm 36 – I wonder where they got their name – once again in Kreutzberg has the reputation of being the best wurst stand in the city. It is busy at almost any hour of the day with people bursting out onto the sidewalk. Best visited with a belly full of beer! If you happen to be in town in the fall winter or spring and its a Saturday check to see if their is a Herta football match. This is my second recommendation for the ideal environment for a hearty curry wurst. Vendors line up outside the stadium offering all sorts of beers and of course the famous German sausages. Grab one before and after the game!

There are so many great meal options in Berlin and almost all are affordable for all types of travelers. These three offer a combination of affordability, great taste and of course some local charm.

Top 5 Budget Hotels in Berlin

• Hotel Alte Feuerwarche – Double Room from €34
• Hotel Berolina – Double Room from €35
• Amstel House Berlin Hostel – Double Room from €49
• Pension Gasteiner Hof - Double Room from €54
• Generator Berlin Hostel – Double Room from €64

Photo of currywurst plate by Kent Wang

• Flights to Vancouver

So to start off, how can you get there cheaply? Economy Class goes without saying in this case – try to book flights at less peak times – flying on a Monday for instance could prove significantly cheaper. Getting a flight with a stopover could be an idea as it may lower the price further. Another fact to consider is that Seattle is only a two-hour drive away from Vancouver, so landing there and then travelling to Vancouver will give you the added benefit of being able to see two truly fantastic cities at once. Crossing the border into Canada isn’t as difficult as it once was, either, especially if you have a European Passport.

• Accommodation in Vancouver

A great place to stay in the Downtown area of the city is the Victorian Hotel which is ideal in terms of location and cost. There are also many other great places to stay around this area if you look around in advance.

• Getting Around Vancouver

Vancouver has quite a modern infrastructure, with an extensive modern metro network called the SkyTrain which runs four lines covering most of the city, making getting around cheaply an easy one here. There is also a ferry called the SeaBus, which travels from main Vancouver over water to the North part of the city. Renting a car is costly in Vancouver and probably not worth it, as well as being hardly necessary. Cycle hire is common and, depending on the weather, is a very viable and fun option. Increasingly more and more cycle lanes have been built, making the city quite cycle-friendly. Most public transport is also equipped with cycle racks, including many buses.

• Having fun in Vancouver

Couples or individuals travelling without children will enjoy the Public Art Walk, a 13 kilometre route through Downtown Vancouver. Here are many interesting buildings, sculptures, and gardens, many of which are of unique historical and cultural interest. This is a great way to see a lot of the city in a short amount of time. There is also Robson Street, an area chock-full of expensive boutiques, but they’re also intermingled with budget stores and many cafes in restaurants where you can have a snack or a drink and watch the world go by. The Vancouver Flea Market (for those unfamiliar with the term, a flea market is a market where very cheap, often used goods are sold) is a fun, little known place to visit, which may provide some cheap thrills. Additionally, entry is less than one Canadian Dollar.

• Eating out in Vancouver

Recommended is the Cassis Bistro serving inexpensive French food in the downtown area. The Shao Lin Noodle house is also very popular. Also worth visiting is the unique “Japa dog” stand, which serves Hot Dogs with Japanese favourites such as Teriyaki Sauce. There’s always the obligatory McDonalds and Burger King for those who don’t like variety!

Photo of Japa Dog stand in Vancouver, Canada by Tequila Partners

Really, they city so big and sprawling and known as one of the most expensive capitals on our planet is probably hard to visit on low budget. But do not get too skeptical! Here I am to tell you about hidden places and spots that will help you to get to know Moscow better and not to go broke.

Moscow is the city of contrast: the reflection of $200,000 cars in the dirty windows of grey blocks stuffed with small apartments; beautiful ladies in the haute couture dresses walking by the place where babushkas (old women) sell sunflower seeds and cigarettes by the piece; tired and sometimes even colorless faces on metro escalator that goes down to some of the most magnificent stations in the world. What do most people know about this metropolis? Red Square and Kremlin, sable furry and bloody red patches of history! But there is definitely so much more in Moscow you will never be able to know unless you visit this city and try to let its vibe go through you. Now, some local tips.

Tip #1: How to Move Around and Where to Go.

If you are not that familiar with traffic jams, then you will surely get to know them better in the Russian capital. However, you can get along without that knowledge. Get yourself a map of the city metro lines (you can simply download one from the Internet and print it) and walk more. There are so many amazing and special things to see simply walking around and reading the history of the country reflected in the architecture and the mood of the nation echoed in people’ style. You can start from the Red Square where you will see Kremlin in all its glory, St. Basil’s Cathedral with its picturesque domes and Lenin’s Mausoleum, then you can walk down the Moscow river, go to Gorky Park, Lubyanka Square (where the headquarters of all Russian spies are), Manezhnaya Sqare, Arbat and numerous Moscow theaters. Fantastically beautiful VDNH, numerous churches, and parks also should not be overlooked.

Tip #2: Where to Eat in Moscow.

If you are looking for some good place to eat out in Moscow, I recommend that you go to one of those places where they serve Russian cuisine. Is not food one of the best ways of understanding a new culture? What you should definitely try is Russian blini (pancakes, the best are with red caviar, for sure!), pelmeni (dumplings with meat), cold borshch (beet-root soup), smoked fish and delicious jams made from local berries. Great street/casual/cheap food at Teremok and Kroshka Kartoshka stalls you can find in many places all around the city. Besides, to eat well and really cheap (like $3 for a meal), you can go to some university canteen near GITIS theater school (metro Arbat), MArkhl architecture school (metro Kuznetsky Most), or near Moscow State University (metro Universitet). Here are some more places: Tretyakovka Café, Coffee Bean and Max Internet Café (rather good coffee, which is so hard to find fairly priced), and Yadrena Matrena. Just pretend that you are a student and walk in.

Tip #3: Where to Drink in Moscow.

I think that the name of this tip is just right because there could be no doubts about what to drink: vodka, of course! Drinking vodka in Russia is all about traditions. If you want to drink like locals do, never take a sip before raising your glass in a toast. There is such a Russian saying: if you drink without any reason, you are an alcoholic. Typical Russian Nazdorovie! will do and will definitely break the ice, if there is some. The third toast is always for love. Most people are drunk in one shot of vodka; so if you want to survive the night out, do not forget to eat before, preferably something fat. You should try different flavored vodka shots and do not forget about vodka with black pepper. Usually, vodka and other drinks are very overpriced in bars and clubs, so be ready to spend not less then $20. Visit such places as Sorry Babushka, Vision Cocktail Hall, Kitaisky Liotchik (Chinese Pilot), Propoganda, Boscow Bar and Vodka Bar (the name speaks for itself!).

Tip #4: Where to Party in Moscow.

Well, it is pretty difficult to give advice where to club in Moscow to someone who is traveling on a budget. I guess, rule number one here will be: try to avoid paying entrance fee. Usually, there is an entrance fee like $15-30 but in some clubs you can get in for free if you come early enough, before the party starts. You simply need to check out beforehand the rules on the website of the club you want to go to. Do not forget, that the more expensive is the place, the more crazy is the face control and dress code. Here are some nice places you will definitely have fun at: Solyanka, B2, Gaudi Arena, Fabrique Club, or Karma Club.

Tip #5: Where to Stay in Moscow.

After having a good drink and a lot of fun, you should have a place to go back to and have a good sleep. There are not so many cheap hostels in Moscow, but you can choose one of these Napoleon Hostel, Home Hostel, Trans Siberian Hostel, Yellow Blue Bus Hostel or Home from Home Hostel (average cheapest room $25). If this price does not work for you, you might want to try one of those hospitality social networks like HospitalityClub or CouchSurfing. These networks fuse a number of fantastic opportunities altogether: free stay, new friends and better understanding of a new culture. Russian hosts are very hospitable, they are likely to take you around the city and show some of their favorite places, teach you some funny Russian words and might even show you how Russians really drink.

Have fun in Moscow! This city is arrogant and haughty, but somehow it manages to get you interested and even attached. Moscow has its own rules and even if you do not fall in love with it at the first sight, it will definitely leave a lasting and strong impression.

Budget Accommodation in Moscow, Russia

• Hostel Camelot – Budget hotel in the center of Moscow.
• Kremlin Hostel – Budget hotel in Moscow city center.
• Suharevka Hotel – Bed & Breakfast in Chisty Prudi district, Moscow.
• Oasis – Budget accommodation in downtown Moscow.
• Napoleon Hostel – Budget hotel in Moscow’s trendy Kitai Gorod district.

Photo of Matryoshka dolls in Moscow , Russia, by Neiljs

The Nordic social security system is the envy of much of the world, it is comprehensive, generous and competently run. However, it comes at an enormous cost which is recouped through high taxes on most products and services. This can make travelling in Norway an extremely expensive undertaking, but there are ways to see the country for less.

Norway’s natural heritage

One of the main attractions of Norway is its beautiful landscape, where mountains and fjords meet there are tumbling and verdant valley sides to explore and lush greenery all around. Many people chose to combine exploring the Norwegian countryside with an opportunity to get even closer to nature and camp for a few nights between hotel stays. German visitors have a reputation for adapting this and using camper vans to explore the country and provide a home away from home. Some visitors take this to extremes, however, and pack their camper with as much food as it can carry so that they have to buy almost nothing in the country whatsoever. This does not endear them to the locals.

Food and Restaurants in Norway

The social security system is also responsible for making labour more expensive in Norway and this means that any service is expensive. Travellers can reduce this by cutting down the number of times they eat in restaurants and going self-catering for some of the time. Thankfully the cost of eating in restaurants is not so high as to be completely prohibitive except for those on the very leanest budget.

Norway Public Transportation Network

Unless visitors are staying in only one part of the country, transport around Norway can be another high spending area. This is partly to do with taxes again but also because the country is very large and the cities spread far apart. Thankfully, there are a range of rail and even air passes that can save you a lot of money and are very useful. Enquire at any station or airport or even buy online before you travel. There is also a comprehensive bus network across Norway but the distances and journey time involved may make this an unattractive option to many.

Alcohol and cigarettes in Norway

Most people will enjoy the occasional drink on holiday and this can cause problems in Norway. The taxes on alcohol and tobacco mean that consumption of these goods can eat a serious hole in your budget. Smokers are in the worse situation as they will find it more difficult to cut down or go without while drinkers should be able to simply enjoy drinks less frequently without any major problems.

Although Norway can be an expensive proposition, the most important point of this blog post is to point out that no one should let that put them off. The breathtaking scenery, friendly locals and varied culture more than make up for some higher prices than visitors are usually used to.

Budget Accommodation in Oslo, Norway:

• Anker Hostel
• Catalina Bed and Breakfast
• Residence Kristinelund

Photo of Olso Map and Norwegian Krones by Mallol

Dear Travel Agony Aunt, We are a family of six, two adults four children. Have a villa already booked but require two overnight stops in northern sardinia. We just need somewhere basic and nice and cheap can you advise? Teresa, from Cardiff

Dear Teresa,

Responding to your question about Sardinia family vacations, you could consider staying, Eastwards from Western Sardinia, in Sassari, Castelsardo, Santa Teresa di Gallura, Palau, Golfo Aranci and Olbia.

Sassari is a culturally-rich city with a lot of interesting sites, good restaurants where to eat the traditional Sardininan cuisine and close to beautiful Sardinia beaches. Il Vialetto di Sassari will offer you cosy rooms and budget accommodation in double and triple rooms.

The medieval city of Castelsardo offers you a number of excellent restaurants with seafruit dishes as well as good beaches. Hotel Riviera- Ristorante Fofò will welcome you in 4-star modern double and triple rooms.

Santa Teresa di Gallura is one of the most beautiful places in the North. This little city is located on a headland only 11 miles far from the Southern Corsica Coast. If you would linke to stay alltogether in an apartment than can host up to 6 people, La Contessa is a good choice for you. Otherwise, Méta Hotel near the center, the tourist habour and 1 km far from the Rena Bianca beach.

Palau is located near the famous Costa Smeralda in Western Sardinia. Hotel Piccada offers large apartments for up to 6 people. Hotel For You, in Olbia, offers Emerald Coast accommodation in fully supplied  air-conditioned hotel rooms.

Golfo Aranci is set in a 15-minutes-drive from Olbia and 5-minutes-drive from Porto Rotondo, and boasts wonderful beaches well-known for its clean waters. Sardinia Blu consists of a number of accommodations ranging from one-room to three-room apartments.

Photo of Capo Testa Beach, Sardinia, Italy, by Harrison&Peterson

As waves upon waves of frantic tourists crash down around me I feel like I am sometimes drowning. Rome is a beautiful city with so much to see, but you will most definitely be accompanied by a mob of likeminded tourists around every corner.

I’ve currently been living in Rome for three months and every now and then I crave for a bit of escape. Escape in any form, in a small trip out of town, a good book, movie, or concert. Or best of all; some foreign food. I recently stumbled upon a tiny alley near Piazza Navona and there I found Il Clan. F rom the outside of this cosy Brazilian restaurant you will see that it is completely tattooed. Covering the walls around the outside dining area is praise and thanks written in twenty different languages. Il Clan is authentic Brazilian food, opened by two amazing sisters. If you aren’t in the mood for Brazilian they offer a variety of Italian dishes but if you want something unique then you have to order from the Brazilian approach; after all it is a Brazilian restaurant and that is their specialty.

Budget travellers rejoice! For only five Euros you can order a specialty plate, which includes white rice, black beans, and a delicious cooked spinach. Along with that are my favourites, a vinagrete made with red pepper flakes, tomatoes, and olive oil and a tapioca flour which are absolutely incredible when used as a garnish. Now this isn’t Italian cooking so that means we are not eating in courses and you have a mountain of food all on one plate. The sisters actually encourage you to mix it all together in the true Brazilian fashion. And it really mixes perfectly, sprinkle a little bit of the provided fixings over the top and you are good to go. If you are with a group there is a super sized version of this Brazilian dish for fifteen Euro, they will bring all of the pieces to the puzzle out separately and allow you to dish up yourselves with these awesomely big portions. It will usually feed three people depending on how greedy your friends are feeling. Il Clan has outdoor seating in summer and every table is candle lit. After dinner you have to try the house special dessert, a Brazilian spin on the Crème Caramel.

This will be the last article to push you over the edge of falling in love with these sisters and Il Clan altogether. Make sure to express your new found love on the outside walls of the restaurant, tuck it in between the Mandarin Chinese and Hebrew. Then take a food drunk jaunt over to Piazza Navona and join back into the throngs of fountain photographers. Il Clan is number 21/22 on Via Sora and is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily; I suggest dinner. Great atmosphere and very kind people.

Photo of Brazilian food by stu spivack

This problem has its roots in the punishing Russian visa regime, which puts off most visitors. With such low visitor numbers no budget airlines can run routes to Russia at the capacities they need to remain profitable. Easyjet and Ryanair route maps show Russia as a blank void, a swathe of grey stretching eastwards from Europe into obscurity. However, for those with time and enthusiasm, it is quite easy to get to St Petersburg without spending hundreds of Euros or Pounds on full service airlines. I shall detail here the three main routes.

Getting to Saint Petersburg rom Finland

Finland provides the first and most comfortable route. Easyjet flies to Helsinki from London Gatwick while Ryanair flies to Tampere from Stansted Airport. There is a useful train that runs daily from Helsinki to St Petersburg’s Finlandsky Vokzhal, taking six or seven hours. This means that you have the option to explore Helsinki before heading east or simply hop on the train. However, the problem with this route is that the train is quite expensive. This means the financial saving is reduced and many travellers conclude that it no longer outweighs the time it takes. The Helsinki route, therefore, is the most expensive alternative route, but the most comfortable one.

Getting to Saint Petersburg from Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn is a charming and beautiful city and so well worth visiting on the way to or from Russia. It is well served by Easyjet since it became a hub for weekend city breaks, but don’t let that put you off. Travel from Tallinn to St Petersburg is straightforward and cheap, but it isn’t comfortable. For reasons I don’t fully understand (feel free to let me know) there is no longer a train service between the two cities. This means travel by bus is the only option. I did this once and I would do it again if I was totally strapped for cash. When cost is not the first consideration I recommend taking a different route.

Getting to Saint Petersburg from Riga, Latvia

From the UK it is possible to fly to Riga for as little as ten pounds, as long as you don’t mind flying with Ryanair. This puts you a mere twelve hours away from St Petersburg which is easily covered by an overnight train journey. In terms of time, this is the least efficient route yet it is also my favourite. The journey on the train is comfortable and eases you into the mindset required for travel in Russia. You get time in Riga and arrive in St Petersburg rested in the morning ready for the day ahead.

Many people conclude that the added time and hassle of taking any of these routes negates any financial saving. If time and convenience are the basis of the decision then they are right. For those, however, who are willing to spend a little time and effort getting there cheaper and exploring the region on the way then these routes are for you.

Photo of the Church of the Savior on Blood in St Petersburg, Russia, by marcella bona

Boasting a rich historical and architectural heritage, this year’s Europe Capital of Culture offers visitors all they need for an unforgettable weekend break in Eastern Europe: great choice of accommodation, remarkable UNESCO World Heritage sites, interesting museums, excellent traditional and international restaurants, vibrant nightlife, and a lively program of shows, exhibitions, concerts, festivals and special events through the year.

Do not miss the opportunity to enjoy this unique cultural experience. Book your stay in Vilnius on venere.com and get the best hotels deals available till March 24, 2010!

Mikotel – Vilnius

Ideally situated in the beautiful Old Town, the Mikotel is a budget hotel in Vilnius offering double rooms for $65.4 and triple rooms for $79.6 per night (prepaid/not refundable). Free breakfast.

Hotel Comfort – Vilnius

Located in the heart of Vilnius Old Town, Hotel Comfort offers standard double rooms for $84 per night (prepaid/not refundable). Free breakfast.

Panorama Hotel – Vilnius

The modern Panorama Hotel offers comfortable accommodation in Vilnius Old Town from $84 per night (prepaid/not refundable). Free breakfast.

Photo of Vilnius Old Town by erephas

Overlooking the Gulf of Aqaba, the Blue Beach Club Hotel offers 20 spacious hotel rooms in the picturesque fishing village and popular beach resort of Dahab. A great place to stay when on a budget holiday on the Red Sea Coast, this charming hotel features a bar, shaded gardens and terraces, as well as a beachfront swimming pool.

Special Hotel Deal available until August 16, 2009.

Manchester has a thriving food culture, with a wealth of restaurants serving every possible style of cuisine imaginable. Many of these offer set menus and value deals, meaning that even the most ardent food lovers don’t have to miss out during these credit crunched times.Here are three of the best deals around – all of which are available for less than £20.

1. Grado

Offering authentic modern Spanish food, this innovative tapas restaurant has made a bit of a splash on the Manchester foodie scene since its launch in 2007. Eschewing the calamares and patatas bravas style of the more formulaic chain restaurants, Grado combines contemporary Spanish cuisine with slick and professional service.

Set in bright and airy surroundings, diners can enjoy a full meal in the restaurant or sample the substantial menu whilst watching the chefs at work in the open plan bar area.

Offers include two courses for £13.50 or three courses for £16.50, Monday to Friday lunchtimes and 5pm-7pm. Evening drinks discounts are also available at the bar, with 2-for-1 on cocktails and house wine between 5pm-7pm, Mondays to Fridays.

New York Street, Piccadilly, Manchester. Tel: +44 161 238 9790

2. Choice

Tucked away in its picturesque canal-side location, Choice is an absolute gem of a restaurant. Having won numerous awards for its extensive wine list and traditional British food, this is a must-do for any food lover visiting Manchester.

Using locally sourced produce, the emphasis is on comforting favourites such as beef and potato pie with pickled red cabbage or banana bread and butter pudding. All of which are presented simply but with the utmost aplomb and are guaranteed to get your mouth watering.

The Smart Choice menu, which is available all day Monday to Thursday and from 12pm-6pm Friday to Sunday, offers excellent money savings, with 2 courses for £13.95 or three courses for £16.95. You can even catch some live music while you dine, with performances from the in-house pianist on the baby grand in the bar.

Castle Quay, Castlefield, Manchester. Tel: +44 161 844 3400

3. Portofino

This warm and friendly Italian restaurant is located about six miles outside of Manchester city centre in Altrincham but is easily reached by the frequent tram service from Piccadilly Station. The journey takes around 20 minutes but the hearty home-cooked style of the food makes it well worth the trip.

As well as the usual pizzas and pastas you would expect from a traditional Italian eatery, diners can also choose from a wide variety of meat and fish dishes.

Not only is the food delicious, it is exceptionally good value for money. The early dining menu is available Monday to Thursday from 5pm-7pm and consists of starter, main course, dessert and coffee, as well as a 175ml glass of house wine, for the price of the main course (most of which are between £14 and £19).

A four course Sunday lunch deal is also available, for the startling price of just £9.95. Understandably, this is very popular, so be sure to book a table to avoid missing out.

15 Regent Road, Altrincham, Cheshire. Tel: +44 161 928 8714

A few other eateries that didn’t quite make the top slots, but are definitely worth a mention are:

• Le Petit Blanc – gourmet French cuisine from top French chef, Raymond Blanc’s chain of brasseries. Lunch from £11.95 and dinner from £14.50.

• Michael Caines at Abode Hotel – grazing menu from this award winning hotelier from just £12.

• Tropiero – meat, meat and more meat! Brazilian all-you-can eat of the highest standard for £18.95 fixed price.

Photo of forks by alles-schlumpf

It showcases great architecture both contemporary and classic. However, experiencing the eclectic mix of offerings often burns a hole in your wallet. Not every traveler can afford paying 10 euros and up for a couple hours in a museum, or blow their budget going to see the symphony or a football game. The glorious thing about Berlin is that there is fun, unique and varied activities for all budgets. Here are a few options on how to enjoy Berlin on the cheap – four activities for under 4 euros.

Language Exchange Party

Every Wednesday evening a group of people from all over the world gather together for a language exchange. Stop by to learn a little German, English or other language and make new friends while you’re at it. All you need to bring is your native tongue and a smile. I’ve overheard conversations in Spanish, French, German, English, Chinese and Italian just to name a few. Not only is the party filled with interesting people but it also boasts one of the best locations to have a drink in Berlin – aboard the Eastern Comfort Hostelboat. This hostel and lounge occupies a boat floating in the River Spree, docked alongside the East Side gallery in the shadow of the beautiful Oberbaum Bridge. It has stunning views of the night skyline as the sun sets behind Berlin’s iconic TV tower.

Cost: 1 euro – payable when you buy your first drink.

Time: 7 pm until late

Contact: Eastern Comfort Hostelboat GmbH

Mühlenstr. 73 – 77

D-10243 Berlin

Tel.: (030) 66 76 38 06

The Reichtag

This isn’t exactly an out of the way activity and you will have to brave the long lines of tourists to get in. However, this icon of the German Government and Reunification is worth the wait. The architecture is truly stunning – combining fantastic, high tech contemporary design with a historic landmark. The famous glass dome holds an array of light reflectors that catch sunlight and stream it down upon the counsel chambers. It is a modern marvel and an innovative approach to sustainable architecture. It symbolically addresses transparency of government as anyone can now look down upon government proceedings. A spiraling ramp leads you up the dome and offers great views down on the surrounding city. Walkways lead out onto the roof for more great views and a breath of fresh air. Walking around the surround area is also worth a dedicated afternoon. The River spree winds its way through this area and is banked by bike and walking paths.

Weekend Flea Markets

The urban plazas, and parks throughout Berlin fill up with stalls selling all sorts of goodies every weekend. Saturdays are usually reserved for farmers markets, offering fresh produce and other food items. Sunday brings out local residents and shops selling all sorts of antiques, used clothes, and various tchotchka. The biggest and most varied flea market is located in Prenzlauerberg on Bernauer Strasse near the corner of Wolliner Strasse. The small lanes are packed with locals looking for a bargain or items made by Berlin Designers. Stalls sell handmade jewelry, clothing and crafts. Others sell used lamps, records, miscellaneous electronic wires, used (perhaps stolen) bikes, and anything else you can imagine. Interspersed with these booths are some fantastic street food stalls offering fresh squeezed juices, coffee, delicious sausages and of course there are bars stocked with cold German beers. You can get in and experience the chaos and crowds of funky dressed people for free but you will have to bargain hard for any purchases.

The #200 Bus Tour

As long as you are disciplined enough to leave the markets without emptying your wallets, this activity is the most expensive on the list. Many of the most used bus routes in the city are services with double decker buses. The seats at the front of the top level offer fantastic views onto the bustling streets and of the surrounding buildings and monuments. Bus number 200 runs a fantastic route from the Zoologischeral garten station past many of the significant sites in Berlin. Wait until you are at the front of the line to get those prime seats and sit back and watch the city roll by. You will see the broken tower and bold addition to the Gedachnis-Kirche, you will pass nearby the Tiergarten and the stunning architecture of the embassies district, pass through Potsdamer Platz and roll through Mitte and Museum Isle. IT continues its course by Alexander Platz and up through Prenzlauerberg past the Volks Park (which is worth a stroll through). Get off at the corner of Conrad-Blenkl-Strasse, walk southeast one block and make a left at Paul-Heyse-Strasse. On your right you will see a large hill that houses the stunning Velodome and Swimming center built for Berlin’s Olympic bid. Designed by French architect Dominique Perrault, these half submerged buildings are draped with metal mesh that creates dramatic reflections of light.

A single ticket costs 2.40 Euros while a full day ticket that will allow you to hop on and off at your leisure will run a little over 6 Euros. The full day ticket will be good on all forms of public transportation.

These are only a few of the many options to enjoy time in Berlin without breaking the bank. There are hundreds of galleries dotting the streets, amazing cafes that spill out onto the sidewalks, and great parks that offer free recreation. In general Berlin is a very affordable city with an amazingly hip and creative population. There is a plethora of activities for all budgets and interests. These are a just a few of the cheapest options. For more stories about living in Berlin and traveling throughout the world visit www.byworldofmouth.com. For descriptions and reviews of interesting architecture in Berlin visit www.talkitect.com. Enjoy your trip!

Photo of Berlin Reichtag, Germany, by creaydestrye

If you are visiting Paris on a budget and looking for a low cost meal in the City of Light, forget the good old sit-down French lunch, head to a local bakery, bistro or food stand, and grab a sandwich. Perfect for a quick, inexpensive lunch in “Parisian style”,  jambon-beurre and merguez-frites sandwiches will delight your palate without breaking your budget.

Jambon-beurre

Every day 2.2 million jambon-beurre sandwiches are eaten in France! The fresh, crackly-crusted baguette stuffed with salty ham and  spread with creamy butter is the French national sandwich. Paris is filled with so many bakeries and cafés, that it is difficult to say where you can get the best jambon-beurre in town. According to a survey published on the Le Figaro Magazine last year, the Crêperie du Comptoir, a tiny take away food shop in the Odéon area, makes Paris’s best jambon-beurre. Recommended by Paris-based blogger Rosa Jackson, Le Petit Vendôme, a traditional French café near the exclusive Place Vendôme, is another great place to get a delicious ham and butter sandwich.

The average price for a jambon-beurre sandwich in Paris is 3.27 euros and if you want to save money, you can still make your own French sandwich. For a perfect jambon-beurre, head to a traditional bakery for a baguette à l’ancienne bread, then to a charcuterie shop for jambon à l’os ham. And do not forget to spread Normandy butter on the bread slices!

Merguez-frites

If you are looking for halal food and like spicy cuisine, try a flavorful merguez-frite sandwich. It may not feel very Parisian, but this crusty baguette bread stuffed with French fries and chili-spiked lamb sausage used in Tunisia and Algeria is the North African-inspired French street food par excellence.  For a “traditional” merguez-frites ask for harissa sauce, and if it is too spicy for your palate you can still choose between Dijon mustard, mayonnaise and ketchup.

The streets in Northern Paris are filled with merguez vendors, but you can find merguez stalls at any flea market and close to any university, concert hall and sport venue in the city.

More street food in Paris

More terrific French fast food snacks, such as crepe (thin pancake filled with either savory or sweet fillings), croque-monsieur (hot ham and cheese grilled sandwich with béchamel sauce), sandwich américain (baguette stuffed with hamburger and French fries), filled croissant sandwich, can be found everywhere in Paris. In addition, the French capital offers great international street food including Middle-Eastern kebab and falafel, Greek chawarma, take away pizza and Asian food.

Photo of tourist having lunch on the Pont Neuf, Paris, by fooishbar

Getting Euros in Paris

Do not exchange currency before getting into Paris. The best way to have Euros is by ATM withdrawal or by charging all your shopping to your credit card. It is advisable to contact your bank to be informed on the charges before travelling.

Booking your accommodation in Paris

When booking a lodging, you can choose a hotel with breakfast included. If you find hard to find a hotel with free breakfast, going out to have delicious pastries, orange juice and some coffee in a Parisian cafeteria will make you save more money than paying an extra charge for the breakfast in the hotel.

If you are travelling with your personal laptop and the budget accommodation you have found doesn’t boast free Internet connection, don’t worry: Paris is one of the cities with more free Internet Wi-Fi spots along its parks, libraries and major public areas!

Visiting Paris for free

If you are flexible and you can travel the first week of the month and stay in Paris through the weekend, then you are lucky! During all the year, some of the most famous Paris museums are open for free visits the first Sunday of each month. Among this museums, you can get access to the Louvre Museum, the D’Orsay Museum and the Picasso Museum.

However, if you don’t have the chance to travel to Paris during the first weekend of the month, here you have a list of all-year-round free attractions in Paris: Musée d’Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris, Musée Carnavalet-Histoire de Paris, Musée Cernuschi, Musée du Compagnonnage, Musée Curie (Institut du radium), Musée du Parfum-Fragonard/Théâtre musée des Capucines-Fragonard, Petit Palais, Maison de Balzac, Musée des Beaux Arts de la Ville de Paris, Histoire de Paris, Musée de la Préfecture de Police, Maison de Victor Hugo, Musée de la Vie Romantique, Musée Zadkine.

Shopping in the City of Lights

Let you bewitch by the elegant and design boutiques you will find in Paris, window shop until you get exhausted, but when it comes to buy your items you may go into the large Department Stores or the Flea Markets, such as Marché aux Puces d’Aligre, Marché aux Puces de Clignancourt, Le Village St-Paul.

Filling your stomach

Dining facilities in Paris are usually not that cheap. To save some money in food and drinks, you can drink tap water: ordering bottled water in restaurants is quite expensive.

Making your lunch your largest meal of the day will help you keep some money on your pocket. Most Paris dining venues offer big deals in fix-priced menus at lunch time that can include up to an appetizer, first course, second course and dessert, as well as tips and taxes.

Photo of shop window in Paris by Yo x YNTL

There are lots of cheap and free things to do around Rome. You just have to know where to look. Take a night out at the theater or the cinema for example. Between the tickets and food at the concession stand, it can turn out to be one expensive date! Lucky for you, we’re going to let you in on some little secrets that will allow you to enjoy doing the things you love to do for less!

Last-minute Theater

Spending the night at the theater in Rome doesn’t have to cost you a fortune. Folks with wallets all shapes and sizes can snag a ticket discounted as much as 50% from the Last Minute Theater Box Office. Though, discounted tickets are only available Tuesday through Saturday, it’s still a great way to spend the evening and less. That means more money for ice creams! Log onto the website www.spettacoloromano.it for information on what seats are available at the discounted price on that given day for the play or musical you want to see. Make sure to change the page in English, in order to navigate the site easier.

Last Minute Teatri
Via Bari, 20
Tel.: 06/44180212 or 06/44180246

A Free Flick

Want to catch a flick and eat your popcorn too? Make it a movie night at La Casa del Cinema in the heart of Rome’s Villa Borghese Park. Put your money away. The city of Rome is picking up the tab! La Casa del Cinema hosts free screenings of movies in its original language. Many of these movies are independent films and are shown in English, but from time to time, blockbuster hits are also featured. Big movie buffs can spend hours in its private room that features multiple personal DVD player stations and a library that holds hundreds of movies to choose from. Log onto www.casadelcinema.it for movie times and showings.

La Casa del Cinema
Largo Marcello Mastoianni, 1
Tel. 06/423601

Reduced Movies

On certain nights at the cinema in Rome, you can actually catch a flick for a reduced price. On Wednesdays at the movies, instead of paying €7,50 for a ticket, you can watch a movie for just €5,50. This includes Warner Village Moderno (Piazza Repubblica) and The Metropolitan (near Piazza del Popolo) where English language movies are also played. Ladies have even more opportunities to save money. At certain participating movie theaters such as Warner Village Cinemas – both Parco de’ Medici and Moderno, offer a ‘4Ladies’ promotional rate on Tuesdays movie tickets cost just €4,00.

Photo of movie theater by sidewalk flying

Travel Off Season

One of the secrets of visiting the Amalfi Coast is to come outside of the peak travel season. This tip will not only save you money at your hotel or bed & breakfast but will also bring you to Amalfi at some of the loveliest and least crowded moments of the year. Arrive during the spring or early summer to enjoy the beautiful coastline and less crowded beaches. Autumn brings with it equally stunning views, and beautiful beach days last well into October. While it can vary depending on the particular hotel or bed & breakfast, peak season is generally Easter, major holidays, and the months of July and August. Some hotels offer low season and mid season prices, so check to see when the rates change as you are searching for your lodging. A word of warning: During the low season from November to March, there are fewer buses and often no boat connections between cities. Many restaurants and shops also close down for holiday during the months of January and February.

Get off the Beaten Path

The Amalfi Coast is famous for the beautiful cities of Positano and Amalfi, but you will also find several charming cities tucked into and perched high above the coastline. If you are looking to save some expenses on your lodging, broaden your search and consider staying in some of the smaller cities along the Amalfi Coast. The city of Praiano, located next door to glamorous Positano, has many hotels with stunning views of the sea below. Just a short walk or bus ride from Ravello, famous for its yearly music festival, is the charming and quiet city of Scala, with family owned hotels offering stunning views of its well-known neighbor.

Look for the Local Touch

While the Amalfi Coast is home to some of the most luxurious and famous hotels in the world, you will also find many small, family run hotels and charming bed and breakfast options offering very reasonable rates. Many have locations and terrace views equally as stunning as their five star neighbors, and provide a local touch to your stay. Do your research in advance and discover some of these charming spots!

Hop on the Bus

The Amalfi Coast road is famous for its wild curves, narrow roads, and breathtaking views. For those wanting to experience the views without the cost of renting a car and the stress and expense of parking, the public SITA buses are the way to go. With connections between all the major cities on the Amalfi Coast, Sorrento and Salerno, the buses that run along the Amalfi Coast offer visitors an excellent way to travel between cities at an inexpensive price. (From 2-6 euros depending on the type of ticket.) Before hopping on the bus, don’t forget to buy your tickets at most tabacchi shops or bars where you see a SITA sign.

Hit the Beach like the Locals

Are you planning some major beach time during your holiday on the Amalfi Coast? The warm sun and dazzling blue sea are certainly not to be missed. While the comfort of sun beds and beach umbrellas can’t be denied, the costs can add up if you are planning to head to the beach every day. My final tip is to hit the beach like the locals. Every city along the coast will have different sections of the beach reserved for hotels or restaurants, but take a look around for where the locals have flung their towels down to catch the sun. Often they are the best spots around! Generally there will be a free shower of some kind nearby where the locals swim. Enjoy the sun, the beach and the beautiful sea for free!

Photo of Positano, Amalfi Coast by StrudelMonkey

Where international travel destinations are concerned, Madrid is oftentimes referred to as the “new kid on the block” and that is quite a misconception in itself. Though the city is a relative newcomer to the tourist industry, don’t let that fool you. In our opinion, this is one city in Spain that you won’t want to miss. The attractions, the countryside, and the cuisine make Madrid a very desirous destination for many international travelers. However, if it’s a shopping vacation that holds the most allure for your travel agenda, the city will absolutely amaze you with the abundance of bargains that you will find.

Consider the flea market concept, found in abundance all over Western Europe, as being your format for a trip to Madrid. Why? It’s simple - Madrid’s flea markets are one of the best kept secrets in the international travel industry. The city’s busy markets will amaze you not only with their character but because they are so full of life. You can spend the entire day just browsing or find tons of quality merchandise at exceptional bargains.

Best of all, you will have a ball just enjoying the atmosphere in general with all the colorful banter occurring when the locals are negotiating the best deals. Here are three excellent flea and cheap markets that you won’t want to miss while visiting Madrid:

1. El Rastro (The Trace)

El Rastro is situated at the Plaza de Cascorro, the Calle Ribera, and on the adjoining side streets. They have turned the streets here into some of the biggest flea markets that you will find anywhere in the world. Antiques, clothing, and just lots of useless tidbits are what you find in abundance at El Rastro. The character of this market area alone makes this a must-explore destination.

2. Mercado Puerta de Toledo (Toledo Gate Market)

Formerly a busy fish market, Mercado Puerta de Toledo has been transformed into shopping metropolis filled with galleries and stores. Antique shops, art galleries, fashion retailers, cafés, pubs, and restaurants abound here, so plan on spending the day adventuring. However, you will quickly discover that one day may not be enough time to experience all there is to take in once you see the uniqueness that each establishment holds for the traveler.

3. Cuesta de Moyano

Located at Calle de Claudio Moyano, Cuesta de Moyano is one of the busier street market centers in Madrid, well-known for the abundance of values that you can find there. There are roughly 30 outdoor stalls filled with merchants buying and selling merchandise – specifically assorted literature and books from ages gone by. Serious book collectors from all over the world shop here, so be prepared to hear some of the finest negotiating you will hear anywhere in Madrid.

Photo of El Rastro Market, Madrid, Spain by Sylvain Bourdos

But the readers of the Venere Travel Blog are not just some regular travelers because they have the knowledge provided here. Pick up some valuable tips!

Fly cheap to Germany

Sometimes airlines cause us to feel real astonishment or even shock. They can offer such prices for tickets that you would think of no better means of traveling. I recommend you checking such website as Skyscanner for cheap flights in Germany. Here is the list of our favorite special airlines: RyanAir, AirBerlin, Lufthansa, and EasyJet. RyanAir is the crowned queen of these companies, if offers budget airfare and besides it is easy to build connecting flights with other cheap airlines. You should be really lucky to get a cheap ticket with AirBerlin and Lufthansa, but miracles do happen. Sometimes you cannot find a cheap ticket from an airline that lands in the city you are heading to, but do not get upset! There is always a way out: you should use the craziest possibilities to connect your flights and get a cheap connection.

Train travel in Germany

Besides, you can always use the services of Die Deutsche Bahn and travel Germany cross-country by train. Die Deutsche Bahn offers their Europe-Specials, but they are not that cheap. If you are not familiar yet with a wonderful weekend ticket, we would like to introduce you to it. As train tickets in Germany are pretty expensive, this one offers a fantastic possibility to travel for only €7. This ticket costs 35 EUR and can be used by up to five people. The only problem is that only regional trains can be taken. You can also use the services of TGV-Europe or Interconnex and book the same trains as with Die Bahn but cheaper. And here we have one more wonderful tip for you: night train tickets are much more cheaper! But you have to be aware of that because when you book your ticket on the website, they do not always offer this tickets.

Hit the road!

If flying and traveling by train is not an option for you, I have more good news. You can use such means of traveling as Mitfahrzentrale or Mitfahrgelegenheit. These are the websites where you can find people driving along the roads of Germany (and not only Germany!) by their car and looking for fellow-travelers who are going the same direction and can share the petrol money with them. Drivers have their profiles on these websites, so you can check some information about them as well as their pictures and arrange a journey. Besides, good old hitchhiking is always there for you if you consider it safe enough. But do not forget that during the winter time which is coming close and closer it can get really cold (-10-15 C°) in Germany.

Photo of destination display in Christuskirche underground station, Hanover, Germany by Jan The Manson