If you’re looking to forget about work for a while and head out into the wild, blue yonder, then there can scarcely be any destination more appealing than Europe. When the only thing on your mind is the lure of new sights, sounds and a sense of unbridled adventure, the European continent has it all and much, much more. However, if your finances aren’t in particularly good shape, and you maybe have Personal Loan or Home Loan repayments to worry about, then dropping everything and taking off on a whim can be a near impossible task.
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Luckily for you, there are a ton of great European holiday destinations you can head to without burning a hole in your wallet. Whether you’re looking for inexpensive hostel or hotel accommodation, cheap but scrumptious food, or just plain old sightseeing, then these amazing European cities should be just the places to visit if you’re on a fairly low-key budget and don’t want to make massive dents in your Savings Account
1) Budapest
One of the most beautiful cities in all of Europe, the capital of Hungary is one of the most architecturally and culturally diverse tourist spots in the continent. Not only is it one of Europe’s oldest cities, it also manages to seamlessly merge the past with the present with considerable gusto. Whether it’s the incredible local cuisine, the rows of shopping avenues, intriguing museums or the awe-inspiring castles that pop out of the landscape, Budapest always has something to offer even to the most seasoned tourists. Budget travellers can certainly take advantage of low cost hostels and restaurants while also basking in centuries of rich heritage. And with the Danube River running through the city and the famed thermal baths to dip into, you can literally immerse yourself in everything Hungarian.
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2) Berlin
If you’re heading to Europe on a budget then heading to the cultural melting pot that is the city of Berlin should be high on your list of priorities. Steeped in history, Berlin has long been the favoured destination of young travellers with its expansive nightlife. The city offers a plethora of incredible sights, affordable cafes and restaurants, extremely reasonably priced accommodation and of course stunning monuments and architecture. Merging the best of traditional German culture with modern festivals and attractions, Berlin is well connected with a number of trams and buses plying through it. And of course, who wouldn’t want to take a load off at the many beer gardens that litter the length and breadth of the city. History buffs will find a lot to savour as well with the Berlin Wall and many other memorials offering a glimpse into Germany’s past. For a couple of hundred Euros, you could easily spend a week or two living it up in the city.
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3) Prague
If walking is your forte then look no further than the picturesque city of Prague in the Czech Republic. Prague is renowned for its almost fairytale-esque beauty, with cobbled streets, castles, churches and bridges dotting the city. For a great holiday experience that is light on the pocket, Prague can’t be beat. Travellers can find accommodation at incredibly reasonable prices, while most of the city’s main attractions can be visited either for free or for a very nominal charge. Prague is also a great place to pick up souvenirs at a bargain price, with flea markets and discount sales galore.
This is certainly one city you wouldn’t want to Czech out from in a hurry.
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4) Istanbul
Another fantastic and colourful budget destination that you should most certainly consider is the lively and vivacious city of Istanbul. If you’re among those travellers that loves the hustle and bustle of bigger cities as compared to the serenity of the countryside, then Istanbul should be right up your alley. With stunning natural landscapes and a whole host of impressive architectural marvels, you will certainly get more than your fill of Turkish culture and heritage. Visit the Black Sea in the north or the innumerable bazaars within the city that have been an inseparable part of Istanbul’s legacy throughout the ages. And if you’re looking to paint the town red without emptying your wallet in one go, the city is practically bursting at the seams with local food stalls, restaurants and clubs that will satisfy even the fussiest of travellers.
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5) Reykjavik
And finally, if you’re craving to get off the beaten path then head on over to majestic Iceland and its magnificent capital city, Reykjavik. Surrounded by some of the most otherworldly landscape imaginable, Reykjavik is a must-visit for travellers looking to immerse themselves in nature. Don’t worry about the cold either since the city’s geothermal spas will warm you up while you catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights above you. While Iceland has its fair share of incredible scenic beauty, Reykjavik also woos travellers with fairly inexpensive accommodation that ranges from a mere 20-30 Euros a night and an array of fascinating sights and museums. And if you’re feeling a bit adventurous, rent a bike to explore the countryside on your own or take a trip to the Eyjafjallajökull volcano to satiate those exploratory urges.
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There you have it! 5 fantastic European destinations to visit if you’re on a tight budget. In fact, you could make your holiday experiences even more memorable with a travel Credit Card that can get you great discounts on airline tickets and hotels all over the world. Oh! And do make sure you get hold of Travel Insurance before you head out. You certainly don’t want to be caught up the proverbial creek without a paddle.
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