Budget Transportation Options inside the EU

Filed in archive Cheap Ride on August 1, 2006

I have never met anyone who went to Europe and visited only one city/country. Everyone I know who has gone to Europe for vacation crammed several destinations in their itineraries thinking that since they went all the way there, they might as well make it worth their while and see a lot.

And with the current US$ to Euro exchange rate, travelling around this continent alone could amount to a hefty sum. So what are your options? Which modes of transporation can you take and how can you save?

• If would rather drive around, consider leasing a car rather than Renting one if you are planning on driving for more than 17 days. Due to the insurance cost and the inclusive value added tax, leasing is the cheaper option.


• Obviously, the cost of gasoline differs in every country. You may want to consider driving to countries where gasoline is much cheaper.


• Plan in advance and fly to your destination using budget airlines that ply the intra-EU route.


• Go by train, the most popular way to travel around Europe. Check out Railpass for current deals.


• Desperate? Hitch-hike.

Or, you can always combine all those options for different destinations. Do your research in order to save money.