Yes, Europe can be expensive. It’s a big price airline ticket to get there, and although the dollar/euro valuation is improving, you’re still going to find yourself spending some money. Planning ahead means you can save a little here and there, adding up to a whole lot of savings.
Consider these Top 10 FREE things to do in Europe this summer (as listed by the European Travel Commission):
- Austria: Innsbruck is offering a free hiking bus program for all guests living in Innsbruck or staying at one of the holiday villages (with a Club Innsbruck Card). May 30th – October 26th.
- Belgium: What else, but free beer?! The Haacht Brewery offers free tours and tasting (one low fermentation and one high). Yummmm, Belgian beer!
- England: London has free admission to the British Museum (additional charge for some special traveling exhibits) and the National Gallery. A chance to see great art and culture. (Personal note: Lots of other UK museums are also free including the National Portrait Gallery, Victoria & Albert Museum, and the National Army Museum.)
- Estonia: Tour the 13th century castle in Narva, Estonia. The grounds feature concerts and open air shows all summer long.
- France: The Fete de la Musique offers free music events during the summer. Lots of choices in Paris, and throughout the country.
- Germany: Several museums on Berlin’s Museum Island offer free entry on Thursday after 2 pm, including the Pergamon,the Old Museum, Old National Gallery,Bode Museum,and the New Museum. Museum Island is a UNESO World Heritage Site.
- Hungary: Energy and daring in the sky are in evidence during the Red Bull Air Race in Budapest. High speed flying and aerobatics over the Danube, as well a flying beneath the Chain Bridge, keep viewers holding their breath. August 19-20th.
- Ireland: The Ring of Kerry (in County Kerry) is a mystical Celtic tourist trail starting in Killarney. Follow it for some of the best scenery in the country, and a visit to many historical attractions.
- Norway: Visiting Oslo’s National Museum of Art, home to Edvard Munch’s “The Scream,” won’t cost you a krone.
- Switzerland: Zurich hosts one of the largest techno-parties in the world, with its August Street Parade. Originally begun as a political demonstration for love, freedom and tolerance, it’s become a giant parade and party. August 8th.
I know there are a lot of other great FREE things to do in Europe! So please list your favorites in the comments!
Photo credit: SXC
