If the words “summer in Europe” make you think of sky-high hotel prices and hordes of sunburned tourists, it’s time to broaden your horizons. Some truly bucket-list-worthy spots that are best visited in warm weather—from soaring Gothic castles to sunny vineyards—can also be part of a squarely affordable European getaway if you head east … but not too far. While it’s no secret that Eastern Europe is more affordable than Western European hubs like Paris, you might be surprised by the value you can get in Central Europe. Budapest, Vienna, and Prague have as much appeal as over-visited Paris, Rome, and Barcelona—and a lot more value. Affordable Europe in Summer: Hungary, Austria, the Czech Republic Consider favorable Czech and Hungarian exchange rates (they don’t use the Euro), shockingly cheap hotel options, and easy train routes through the region with newly revamped Eurail’s cheaper-than-ever Global Passes for multi-country travel. For the younger crowd, there are under-30 discounts aplenty thanks to the fact that this region actually welcomes tourists: Showing your Eurail pass (which is discounted 23 percent for those under 27, and 10 percent for seniors) gets twentysomethings and seniors discounts at establishments all over Europe. Related: This Tool for Planning Europe Train Travel Is the Secret to an Affordable Dream Trip Under-31 tour discounts are also available from tour provider STA Travel on all itineraries. Trips covering Budapest, Prague, and Vienna include its 14-day Best of Eastern Europe itinerary, and choosing a tour means someone will book all the affordable… [Read full story]
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