How to save time and budget
How do make the most of my time in Europe
The number one time saver is having internet access. This speeds up access to transportation, finding great places to eat. See the comments on Tours or No Tours. Paying with cash consumes a lot of time both exchanging money and actually paying the bills. Much of Europe is set up for touchless transactions including the waiters in restaurants. Also, see the Train vs. Plane comments.
TIP: Feel like you have walked all over and your feet need a break? Do an internet search for “which bus line in Berlin Germany for sightseeing” (substitute your location for Berlin). This should give you the number of the public bus line that passes many of the local spots of interest and from there you can determine where to catch it. Riding through an unfamiliar city may show you things in the surrounding area that you had not seen as well as allow you to rest your feet – this is especially true in London if you can get the front seats of top level on a double decker bus.
Don’ t be caught by surprise that businesses and shops are closed during these days and times:
Countries that shut down or slow down for two to three hours starting around 1:00 pm (more frequent in smaller more rural communities) include: Spain, south of France, Italy, Greece, Portugal, Albania, Malta, Switzerland. Countries where it is common for some retail shops close on Sundays or operate on limited hours include Germany, Austria, Norway, Poland, some areas of France, Croatia, UK and Ireland, Switzerland, Greece. Also, it is common for museums to be closed on Mondays. Check their website to determine which days they are open.
TIP: Sundays may be a great travel day.
How can I save money?
Several sections address items that can save you money. See the Hotel section regarding breakfast, the Getting around Europe section for Eurrail passes, the Grocery Store comments for things to buy, the Tour comments on taking tours, the cell phone section regarding roaming charges.
TIP: Senior discounts on trains and many other things in Europe begin at age 60 rather than 65. If you fall within this age bracket be sure to look for any offers.
Should you buy a Eurail Pass?
placeholder for buying train tickets
What happens at the airport when I land in Europe?
Generally follow the crowd from your plane as they head towards customs. There are three steps in the process, first follow the signs for customs, passport control etc. As you near the customs stations the signs will start separating the people based on where they are from. At this point your passport will be checked. Next, if you checked your luggage pick it up at a standard Baggage Claim area. Finally, proceed to the customs section where you will have an opportunity to declare anything before you enter the country or go through the “Nothing to Declare” exit.
Next, head for your desired ground transportation, all the while keeping an eye out for ticket machines if you need them.
TIP: Check the Country Specific Section for details on specific airports