European city break tips: Part 2

This is Part 2 of our favourite money saving travel tips - check out Part 1 here!

For those who haven't read Part 1, here's the introduction. For those who have - we give you permission to skip past...

We’re blessed in the UK to have Europe on our doorstep. In just over two hours you can reach Portugal’s wonderful northern city Porto, or Sweden’s magical capital city Stockholm.

Yes, long-haul adventures to North America or Thailand are life changing (and strongly encouraged), but city breaks are your bread and butter - and they don’t have to be expensive. They really, really don’t.

Porto's Beautiful Old Tram

Stockholm, Sweden

Georgetown in Washington DC

With these simple tips and ideas, you can easily maximise your holiday enjoyment without breaking the bank unnecessarily.

5. Try and fly with just a backpack

Consider packing light and taking only a backpack, which comes with the cost of your seat. Extra baggage costs mount up considerably and how airlines really make their money.

And to be honest, if you’re travelling to a warmer climate, you can easily travel with just a backpack.

Rue de Gand in Lille

6. Consider buying a city card or travel card

If you’re planning on packing your trip with activities, consider buying a city card. They will last between 24 - 72 hours (sometimes longer) and allow your entry into most of the city’s top attractions along with use of all public transport too.

They might seem expensive at first, but having your travel and attractions already paid for makes your trip a lot more enjoyable and stress-free.

If a city cards aren’t for you, try a travel card instead, offering you unlimited travel in a 24 – 72-hour timeframe.

Via Mercanti in Turin

7. Search out the local markets for lunch or dinner

Local markets are the heartbeat of a community. You can get so much from a city’s culture from its produce.

Port Rush in Northern Ireland

Search up the local market, pack a picnic, and head to the nearest picturesque park. Not only will the food be brilliant, but it will cost a fraction of the price of a restaurant. Plus, if you have leftovers, you’ve got a great breakfast the next day.

8. Make lunch your main meal

Restaurants often put on deals to tempt in customers during the day. You can often eat abroad for €10 - €15 for three courses - half-price (sometimes even a third) of the price in the evening.