Every year that special time rolls around. A time when you’re at home bingeing Netflix in your pyjamas and everyone else is 100 %, without a doubt, in Europe.
It’s pretty obvious when Euro trip season rears its ugly head. People transform into full-time Instagram influencers the minute they step off the plane and our social media feeds explode.
In the midst of your FOMO, have you ever caught yourself wondering: “How the hell can they afford all of this?” Well you’ll be pleased to hear that your friend’s “boujee” holiday may just be a rouse.
In fact, it’s pretty easy to pull-off a picture-perfect, glammed-up Euro trip with only a modest amount of money saved. It’s just about knowing where to go and, of course, a smidge of self control.
So where do you start when it comes to finding the best -and cheapest- things to do, see and eat in a city? The internet has a pesky way of recommending all the “hit” tourist spots and restaurants. Lucky for you, we’ve done the research and dug up some amazing finds.
Here’s how you can have the boujee, yet budgeted, holiday of your dreams.
Barcelona, Spain
Bareclona is the go-to if it’s your first trip to Spain. But forget the typical, costly ticket to Park Güell. If you want the best viewpoint of the city, you’re better off heading to the completely free and lesser-known spot, the Bunkers of Carmel. Take the trek here just before sunset with picnic food in hand and you’ll be sure to get some of the best pics of your trip.
The bulk of tourists look for an ‘authentic’ experience at the ironically artificial Barceloneta beach. What many don’t know is that there are far nicer beaches just outside of the main city. You can purchase a cheap train ticket and make the short trip to Montgat Nord beach. It’s the perfect place if you’re looking for some time in the sun and picturesque scenes.
Food wise, Granja Petitbo is a cafe with a beautiful interior and is reasonably priced. You can grab an eggs benny here for around 12 euros or just enjoy a nice coffee break. For evening tapas, you can grab some for under 10 euros each at El Xampanyet. Going here will allow you to bless your Instagram with authentic Spanish vibes- its big, brown wooden doors are vintage as.
Or if you want to stretch your euros even further you could try one of the many options that offer free tapas when you purchase a drink.
Split, Croatia
If you’re heading to Europe in the summer, Croatia’s coastline is a must. Split is a popular coastal spot and it’s also home to some of Europe’s most amazing, free-of-charge experiences.
A lot of travellers seem to glaze-over the natural offerings of a city. It’s pretty hard to grasp why when places like Marian Forest Park exist. There are beautiful walks here lined with huge trees as well as wonderful views of the coast and city. The best part? It’s completely free. Another thing not-to-miss? Diocletian’s palace. The ancient palace was built for a roman emperor but it’s now open to everyone, free of charge. Be sure to capture some shots of its giant, sand-coloured columns. They’re next-level royal.
Head to Fig Restaurant or Cri Biri Bela for an evening bevvy tucked away from the crowds. And remember, there’s nothing stopping you from forking out a few euros on a drink and soaking up the atmosphere, even if you can’t afford to dish out on full-on fancy meals.
Paris, France
Here’s the thing, people think Paris is one of the most expensive cities to visit- it’s not. It has some of the most expensive tourist sites, yes, but who says they’re worth forking out the money for, anyway?
Here’s a cheeky tip: every Friday, between 6pm-9:45pm, the Louvre is completely free for visitors from all over the world under the age of 26. Also, if you’re planning to pay for a visit to the Eiffel Tower there’s really no need. The best viewpoint in the city is completely free. Simply head to the cities main shopping centre, Les Galeries Lafayette, and take a few escalators up to its rooftop. It’s a free pass to an amazing view of the entire city and it’s renowned monument.
You’ll almost exclusively find locals at Parc Du Buttes Chaumont. Tourists aren’t completely aware of this gem just yet. Make your way here for green, rolling hills and the best afternoon ambience you’ll find in Paris. You don’t need to pay a cent.
Damyel is usually known for their chocolates but the macaroons are next level. Fork out three euros and you’ll be eating the desert of your dreams and feeling like a full-on french muse. Make sure to take a trip to Du Pain et Des Idees of a morning. The traditional French bakery has been around since 1875 and looks like something straight out of a movie. Pick up a croissant for brekkie for a couple of euros.
The thing is, having a “boujee” trip isn’t really about thousand dollar shopping sprees. It’s about treating yourself to that amazing view, eating a freshly-baked pastry and sipping drinks at a local bar. So save your dollars. There’s no need to fork out to have an unforgettable trip.
And if you’re after a little help on how best to plan your trip, head into your local Universal Traveller store today. They’ve got the hottest deals and expert advice at the ready.
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