Photo by admin

Explore Alternative Accommodation Options

Hostels have become the go-to crash pad for millions of students and young travelers making their way through the streets of Europe, but there is no question many of these lodgings leave something to be desired. Instead of sleeping on a dirty pillow or sharing a room with a stranger, there are quite a few alternatives that remain less expensive than a hotel. Exploring these options could make the difference between the trip of a lifetime and a nightmare vacation.

Apartment rentals have become increasingly popular in recent years, allowing travelers to take up residency in a typical apartment wherever they might be staying. Most apartment rentals are offered through an agency that works directly with the landlord, and rates are incredibly affordable. This option is likely best explored when traveling with friends, as the cost can be split between several different people. In addition to being more comfortable than a hostel, an apartment will likely have a kitchen that can be utilized to make inexpensive meals.

Take a Look at Transportation

Ground transport is often one of the most important aspects of a vacation, allowing travelers to get around in the city they visit. Unfortunately, many tourists end up spending way too much money on tickets that could otherwise be less expensive. It pays to thoroughly research transportation options before departing, getting information about how different tickets work. Some European cities offer tourist tickets that include discounts to local museums and destinations, but they do not always offer the best bang for the buck.

Photo by admin

Engage with the Locals

Regardless of whether travelers speak the local language, engaging in conversation with the locals is often one of the best ways to learn about restaurants, cafes, and other local attractions. Guidebooks often include tourist traps or expensive dining options. Locals will not only share knowledge about more affordable options, but they can help open tourists’ eyes to an entirely different side of the city being visited. When it comes to exploring Europe, it’s easy to be tempted to spend a small fortune. Armed with these helpful tactics, travelers should find themselves more than able to stay on a tight budget, yet nevertheless experience a truly unforgettable journey. With all of that money saved, another trip to Europe might even be a possibility in the near future!

Sarah writes for Reserve Apartments, the serviced accommodation specialists who have hundreds of apartments throughout London, Edinburgh and Glasgow. Reserve Apartments can help you find fully serviced Glasgow, London or Edinburgh Holiday Apartments quickly and easily.

The post Tips For Traveling Europe In Style On A Budget appeared first on Europe Explored.

But where should you go and what should not be missed? There is so much to do you can’t cram it into one trip. Well to help you along here are my top five recommendations.

1) Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace has served as the official London residence of Britain’s sovereigns since 1837 and is the current residence of Queen Elizabeth II. Though much of it remains private the state rooms are open to public view during the summer season. It will also play host to the Royal family during the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton, where they will stand on the balcony and wave to well wishers immediately after their wedding ceremony at Westminster Abbey.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by shining.darkness

Read more about Buckingham Palace here.

2) The Collegiate Church of St Peter, Westminster Abbey, as it is also known, is the traditional place of coronation and burial site for English monarchs. It is a place steeped in history and one that is well worth a visit – though don’t forget it is closed to the public when hosting special events so don’t try and sneak in to see Will and Kate tie the knot!

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Hyougushi

Read more about Westminster Abbey here.

3) The Tower Of London and Tower Bridge
Another one of the City’s iconic buildings find out all about London’s grizzly past (and watch out for ghosts!) at the Tower Of London and the nearby Tower Bridge. The Tower was founded by King William the Conqueror in 11th Century and has served as, among others, a royal palace, fortress, prison and place of execution. The crown Jewels are also stored here and the ghost of Anne Boleyn, beheaded in 1536 for treason against King Henry VIII, is said to walk around the tower carrying her head under her arm.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Edwin Lee

4) London Eye
If you are lucky, and get to the wheel during a clear day you can see up to 50 kilometres far. It provides you a great view of Westminster and Buckingham Palace. This attraction is very popular among tourists, so during the visit you should count with the long queues, but also a strong inspection of you and your bag.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Martie Swart

You can read more about London Eye here.

5) Wembley Stadium
Ok, football may not be for everyone but if you are a sports fan the Wembley Stadium – the home of English football – should not be missed. The iconic twin towers were demolished in 2000 along with the rest of the aging stadium and have been replaced with a state-of-the-art 90,000 capacity arena. There is though a museum detailing the history of the ground and English football in general, well worth it.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Martin Pettitt

6) Endless Museums – for free
Even if you saved cash by booking your accommodation at Hotels.com and were savvy with your tourist cash. If your wallet is still a little light then don’t fret, there are endless other things that can be done for free. Not least London’s excellent collection of Museums such as the British Museum, the Natural History Museum, Tate Modern and the National Gallery – all with free entry. There are also endless parks and green spaces dotted across the city if you are lucky and visit London on those rarest of days – hot and sunny!

7) Trafalgar Square & Nelson’s Column
Trafalgar Square is located in Westminster and commemorates the victory in the Battle of Trafalgar, which took place in 1805. In the middle of Trafalgar Square stands Nelson’s Column, which is surrounded by fountains and four huge bronze statues of lions. Trafalgar Square is the vibrant heart of London and the best starting point for exploration of its central part.

View Trafalgar Square & Nelson’s Column – Top sights to see in London in a larger map

The post Top sights to see in London – United Kingdom appeared first on Europe Explored.