Guide to Ten Inexpensive European Holiday Trips

With costs rising but incomes decreasing, families and other travelers are looking for ways to save money on vacation travel. Here is a guide to the ten cheapest vacation destinations in Europe.

Vienna, Austria

The best weather is in spring and fall and so are the best cost savings. Book trips early to get the cheapest airfare rates.

Hotel rates range from about $82 to $123 - try The Ring Hotel for a well-located located five star hotel. Eat at top rated restaurants and enjoy: romantic Spanish food at Bodega Esa Oola, or traditional Austrian food at At Eight. Prices range from under $10 to about $50, and most restaurants do not require reservations. After dinner, stroll along the Danube Canal and plan the next day's sightseeing at Schonnbrunn Palace.

Copenhagen, Denmark

July and August are best while February is coldest, so plan accordingly. With a full range of art, architecture, and family events, Copenhagen is a good vacation destination. The world's oldest amusement park, Bakken, is found there. Shopping areas are accessible by foot in city districts, and food choices range from hot dog stands to bars and nightlife. Restaurants with buffets save money, and for lodging, choose a hostel - like Sleep-in Heaven - and pay under $50 per night.

Paris, France

Book a cheap flight to Paris - less than $900 - and get ready to see the Eiffel Tower. Travel in low season and fly during the week to get the best rates. Drink hot chocolate at Angelina's or enjoy sumptuous fare at the famous Les Deux Magots, and then head out for a free walking tour away from crowded tourist traps. Mister Bed City Bagnolet has rooms for about $71, or check out one of the many hostels. For the best shopping bargains, try the Latin quarters or designer depots.

Tour Packages

Tour packages are an excellent way to see European locations on the cheap. This European Sampler is a bargain for the price and the destinations. The sampler tour stops at: London, Brussels, Holland, Cologne, Heidelberg, Germany, Lucerne, Switzerland, and Paris, France. The tour price includes sightseeing, lodging, breakfasts and dinners.

Athens, Greece

For under $1000 for airfare, a vacation in Athens is attainable for most, and offers access to some fabulous sightseeing locations like the Acropolis, Parthenon, or the Temple of Poseidon. Tours, cruises, and other festive events are plentiful, and when hunger strikes tavernas like Meraklis Corner or vegetarian friendly Dravlos hit the spot. For about $50 to $75, one can stay at the Arta Hotel or for a few dollars more get a room at the Joker hotel.

Prague, Czech Republic

Steeped in history but offering many entertainments and amusements, Prague is an excellent choice for a cheap European vacation. The art museum at Lobkowicz Palace is world-class, and a Prague escape is available for about $699. The package includes lodging, complimentary breakfast, and round-trip airfare.

Dublin, Ireland

Kiss the Blarney stone or look for a pot of gold on a Wee Taste of Ireland escorted tour package for just $549. Lodging, breakfast and dinner, guided tours, and airfare are included.

Rome, Italy

Book a mini-art tour of Italy for as little as $818 and prepare to be fascinated by sights like St. Francis church or artwork by the famous Donatello. This inexpensive package includes hotel, airfare, ground transportation, escorted tours, and breakfast and dinner.

While in Rome, do as the Romans do and enjoy a gondola ride. Authentic music by the gondoliers add to the ambience and the finishing touch to the evening is a gourmet meal at Hostari Ai Coristi restaurant.

Croatia, Southeastern Europe

Croatian vacation packages are available for approximately $960 and take tourist to dream locations like Trogir, Hvar, and Dubrovnik. Enjoy rafting on the rapids of Cetina or diving in Hvar, and then relax in a three-star hotel. Airfare, lodging, and other amenities are included.

Barcelona, Spain

Book a Barcelona at its best vacation package and see romantic Spain for about $899. Lazy days sunning on the beach coupled with shopping and some serious spa pampering make for the perfect cheap European vacation.

No matter what the budget, by taking advantage of the cheapest vacation destinations in Europe, an affordable and pleasant holiday is available to everyone.

Any pricing information is offered for educational purposes only. Pricing and vacation packages are subject to changes at any time.