Many people planning their first European holiday are surprised at just how inexpensive it is to fly between popular cities in Europe. The proliferation of low-cost no-frills airlines like EasyJet and RyanAir often make flying cheaper than taking the train--or even taking the bus. Before you book a train ticket or try to rent a car, be sure to log on to the websites of these low-cost carriers to see if flying between destinations is the best option. When you book, keep in mind that many of these no-frills carriers have strict weight limits for baggage, so it pays to pack light.
One of the best things about traveling in Europe is the fact that most European cities have superb public transportation systems. While some intrepid travelers may still want to rent a car, it is generally much faster and much easier to get around the same way the locals do--using the carefully laid out network of buses, subways and trains that crisscross the city and the surrounding areas. For the most part, navigating on these European public transportation networks is not difficult, and any good guidebook will provide you with instructions for getting to each major tourist attraction via public transportation. Many of the directional signs are in both English and the prevailing language, and many of the workers at the ticket booths speak English as well.
Finding an affordable place to stay is one of the biggest challenges of a European vacation. If money is no object, you will have no problem finding the right accommodations. But if budget is a concern, finding the right digs can be a bit more difficult. One option to consider is a youth hostel. Once the exclusive province of backpackers, European hostels have grown up, catering to budget-minded travelers of all ages. Some even offer private rooms for families--for less than half what a traditional hotel room would cost. In addition, hostels tend to be located near city centers, making it easy to get around, and hostel staff members are usually quite knowledgeable and friendly.
If you do choose to stay in a hotel, it is important to choose one that is located in the heart of the city rather than on the outskirts of town. Staying outside of town can save you a bit of money, but you may find yourself spending more on taxis and other transportation options throughout your trip.
