If you feel that Europe is too expensive, or that all the good places charge an arm and a leg, think again. There are many alternatives to the trendy and expensive locations, many of which are even more interesting and enjoyable than the crowded and expensive original locations. So take a look at this list of alternate locations which should take some pressure off your wallet without detracting from the fun a European vacation.
London: One of the most expensive cities in the world, much less in Europe, London seems to be on everyone's must-see list. But there are a range of other cities around England, close to London, which have as much, if not more, English history and culture as the capital. For starters, try Oxford, with its famous colleges and youth scene, as well as a variety of buildings and taverns with an Old English feel. A bit further from London, to the North, lies Cambridge, yet another location with a distinctive history and truly English feel. The shady streets of the city and its thriving nightlife combine for a fantastic glimpse at English life without the high prices and stress of a London vacation.
Paris: Another city at the top of everyone's list, Paris may seem out of reach for the budget traveler to enjoy. But even this cosmopolitan city doesn't have to be a major drag on your finances if you know how to do it right. Start by finding cheap lodgings. Instead of a fancy or expensive hotel on the Champs Elysees, try and find one in the fifth or sixth arrondissement, where students and pensioners often offer rooms for month-long or weekly stays. Smaller hotels on the quieter streets often bring about a much reduced price, and there are a variety of restaurants and bars catering to the many students in the city, where you can find cheap food and drinks during your visit.
Cote d'Azure: The South of France, towards the sea, is one of the trendiest locations in Europe, from the glittering casinos of Monaco to the white beaches of St. Tropez. But for those wishing to enjoy the beaches and villas without the famous price tag, take a look at the Costa Brava, Spain's answer to the French seaside. Just a few hours south of the border of France, Costa Brava offers the same great beaches and villas, minus the sky-high prices. And only a short drive from Andorra and the snow-capped mountains of the interior, there is even the option of a cheap ski trip for those interested.
Ibiza: Clubbing mecca for travelers and youth from around the world, Ibiza has seen prices and entrance fees skyrocket along with its popularity. It’s not uncommon for clubs to charge upwards of 100 euros entrance fee on weekends, and hotels and restaurants are equally pricy. However, Europe also offers a myriad of other clubbing locations that keep the party going at much more affordable prices. Prague, for example, has a booming nightlife with a large club scene, including the largest indoor club in Eastern Europe with over six stories. Budapest is another great location for enthusiastic night owls, with a music and dance scene that doesn’t stop until dawn.
Greek Isles: These tiny islands along the Mediterranean are some people's dream vacation. But such an experience is not limited to Greece where the prices continue to rise as demand increases. The Dalmatian Coast, along the Croatian seaside, is a fantastic destination, full of verdant green islands dotted with white houses and villas, as well as some of the best seafood available. The deep blue waters of the Mediterranean, as well as the sunny, cloudless weather are all here, but at a greatly reduced price. Take a look at the old fortresses and chateaus built by the Ottoman Empire.
Swiss Alps: Skiers always seem to fall for the Swiss Alps, one of the most recognized ski destinations in Europe. But many people are not aware that Slovakia can also provide a great ski experience, with many runs and resorts designed for travelers of all levels of experience at a much lower price. The Tatra mountains, which run through the country, are full of cheap hotels and resorts as well as traditional spas and cottages for a unique ski trip.
