Author: seangeismann

Edinburgh: How to visit Scotland’s Historical Capital on a Budget

Post author By seangeismann
Post date April 19, 2023
2 Comments on Edinburgh: How to visit Scotland’s Historical Capital on a Budget

Introduction

Edinburgh is Scotland’s most visited city, and rightfully so. With loads of museums, hikes, and pubs, Scotland’s capital is unmissable. The city itself acts as an attraction, as the Old Town takes you back in time. It is also a budget friendly destination with plenty of free attractions and sites. This article will show you how to travel to Edinburgh on a budget!

I visited Edinburgh on a budget with my friend (a local) and collected some of my favorite activities in this article. The following sections will help you create your own itinerary if you are willing to make the most out of this beautiful city in only a few days! I spent two full days walking the Royal Mile and checking out classic museums, like the Scottish National Museum and the Scottish National Gallery. I also dedicated some time to hiking an ancient volcano within the city for nice views. The rest of this article will give you some first-hand knowledge on this amazing city from a budget-oriented point of view.

Edinburghs Old Town from the castle parking lot — Panorama view of Edinburgh’s Old Town from the castle parking lot

Things to do in Edinburgh on a Budget

Edinburgh may be one of Scotland’s most expensive cities, but there are ways to avoid breaking the bank. The following sections are some places I visited while sticking to a tight budget, many of which are completely free!

Hike up to Arthur’s Chair

Highlight: Views from the top of the city

Cost: Free! (Paid parking may affect this)

Address: Holyrood Car Park (XR2J+F5, Edinburgh EH8 8AZ, United Kingdom)

Arthur’s Seat hike is a 2.4-mile loop that takes about 1.5 hours to complete. This is probably the best hike in the city and is a nice break from the crowds of the Royal Mile. It is also perfectly situated over the city, providing glorious views of the old town and the sea. The “chair” is the peak of the mountain that was formed from an ancient volcano that has been extinct for some time now.

You will want to park at Holyrood Car Park. The trail is very easy to follow from the parking lot. Depending on the time of year, you may have to pay for parking! Check out a preview of the route on AllTrails.

Arthurs Chair hike in Edinburgh — Arthur’s Chair hike in Edinburgh

Walk the famous Royal Mile

Highlights: Museum of Edinburgh, Gladstone’s Land, Edinburgh Castle, historic walk.

Costs: Free!

Address: Start at Edinburgh Castle (Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2NG, United Kingdom), head towards the Palace of Holyrood Park.

The famous Royal Mile in Edinburgh’s Old Town is a beautiful walk through history. Just shy of 2 km, the walk should be taken at a slow pace in order to fully grasp the architectural beauty of the city. It was a former route of the old kings and queens of the Scots but has not been used for processional reasons since the 18^th century.

The Royal Mile will take you through the touristy part of the city, with countless souvenir shops, pubs, and restaurants. If you are looking for a cheap beer at a pub, avoid this area at all costs! Expect inflated prices as it is the main area in Scotland’s most visited city.

Edinburghs Royal Mile — Edinburgh’s Royal Mile

Check out the Sottish National Museum

Highlights: Windows of the World Exhibit, Scottish Natural World Exhibit, Kinetic Clock, cheap backpack lockers.

Cost: Free!

Address: Chambers St, Edinburgh EH1 1JF, United Kingdom

The Scottish National Museum is a free museum located in the Old Town in Edinburgh. It is a budget-friendly activity because it is free entry! The museum is massive, and it is smart to pick and choose which exhibits to spend your valuable time in.

I recommend checking out the Windows of the World exhibit. Although not necessarily Scottish-focused, it provides interesting insight on the global influence that the British Empire has on the world. The Scottish National World exhibit is also worth a shout because it has a collection of fascinating volcanic rocks that formed the region. Keep a close eye when you first enter the museum so you can gaze at the Kinetic Clock, a sizeable clock that is meant to represent both the failures and achievements of the 19^th century.

*Travel hack: backpack lockers in the city cost between £6-10, but only £5 if you leave it at a self-service locker in the museum. Keep in mind closing hours! This makes it a good place to drop your bag and kill some time before checking into your hostel.

Gaze at historical artwork in the Scottish National Gallery

Highlight: Poussin’s 7 Sacraments collection, Rocco to Revolution, room, French Modernism.

Cost: Free!

Address: The Mound, Edinburgh EH2 2EL, United Kingdom

The Scottish National Gallery is a beautiful collection of artwork from all over Europe throughout history. The gallery starts on the ground floor and covers years 1300-1880. Each room is separated by a certain time period, taking you through time and how life was displayed through art as you walk through time. Make sure to check out Poussin’s 7 Sacraments (1644-1648), a room that is dedicated to the 7 holy rites of the Catholic Church. Another interesting time piece was the Rocco to Revolution time period display that shifted towards a more creative era with a splash of propaganda towards the end.

Once you got your fix of old art, upstairs covers more modern art from 1880-1900s. Still, quite old, but much more familiar as the grow of love for nature is displayed clearly. The mood upstairs is much more relaxing and cheerful following the French Modernism phase in art history.

Overall, the Scottish National Gallery should be at the top of any budget traveler’s list of things to do in Edinburgh. It is a free museum that takes you through history in the lenses of artists.

Dive into local culture at the Museum of Edinburgh

Highlights: realistic city models, National Covenant of 1638.

Cost: Free!

Adress: 142-146 Canongate, Edinburgh EH8 8DD, United Kingdom

The Edinburgh Museum is a newer museum in the Old Town that highlights history of the city specifically. Most of the other museums in Edinburgh provide general Scotland or United Kingdom history, making the Edinburgh Museum unique to local tradition and history. The museum takes you through time as it starts with the oldest recollections of Edinburgh, then takes you through the more recent developments of the new town as it explodes in population and development in the 1700s.

I enjoyed the National Covenant that is on display that called for all Scotts to band together against King Charles of England in 1638. It is a historic piece of writing that is well preserved for its age. There are also neat glass-cased displays of the layout of the city over various time periods, which I found particularly interesting.

The Edinburgh Museum will take you roughly 45 minutes to 1 hour to explore. This is another one of Scotland’s free museums, so it is a fun thing to do while traveling to Edinburgh on a budget.

Visit some famous monuments with a view atop of Calton Hill

Highlights: National Monument of Scotland, sunset views of old town.

Cost: Free!

Address: Calton Hill, Edinburgh EH7 5BN, United Kingdom

Calton Hill provides a more intimate view of Edinburgh, as it is lower than Arthur’s Chair, but high enough to get a nice picture of the cityscape of the Old Town. It is also a beautiful grassy area that is quite relaxing or a city park. I recommend coming here for either a picknick or for the sunset.

Calton Hill is also home to some famous monuments that tower over the city. The most prominent monument is the National Monument, which commemorates the Scot soldiers who died in the Napoleonic Wars. It may look very familiar because it was built based on the Parthenon in Greece, helping it gain the title of the Athens of the North. Unfortunately, due to a lack of funding, the monument has never been finished, but looks beautiful nonetheless.

National Monument Calton Hill — National Monument on top of Calton Hill

Take a day trip to either Falkirk or Stirling

Falkirk

Highlights: The Kelpies iron horses, Falkirk wheel

Cost: Cost of rental car, train, or bus. Entrance is free.

Address: Iron Kelpies (Falkirk FK1 1RA, United Kingdom), Falkirk Wheel (Lime Rd, Falkirk FK1 4RS, United Kingdom)

Falkirk is home to a famous canal shifter known as the Falkirk Wheel. It is located just northwest of Edinburgh. It connects the Forth and Clyde Canal with the Union Canal by a massive wheel rotation. Since the Union Canal is about 80 feet higher, Scottish engineers built the Falkirk Wheel in 2002 as part of the Millennium Link project. Falkirk is also home to the Kelpies, a massive horse head sculpture signifying the entrance of the eastern section of the Forth and Clyde. Falkirk is a bit hard to reach by train, as the monuments sit on different ends of the town. I recommend visiting this location with a car.

The Kelpies of Falkirk on the Forth and Clyde Canal

Stirling

Highlights: Stirling Castle, National Wallace Monument, Cambuskenneth Abbey.

Costs: £20 castle entrance, £20 train ticket to and from Edinburgh.

Address: Castle Wynd, Stirling FK8 1EJ, United Kingdom.

You can also visit a historic city just north of Edinburgh known as Stirling. Stirling is home to Stirling Castle, the National Wallace Monument, the Cambuskenneth Abbey, and more. You can easily spend a whole day at the beautiful castle, as it acts as a museum and is probably one of the coolest museums I have ever been to. I loved it so much that I wrote an article about it. A round trip train ticket to Stirling will cost you about £20. Make sure to buy your return ticket on the same transaction to save some money.

Take a train to Glasgow

Highlights: Live music, Glasgow Cathedral, Glasgow Necropolis, Kelvingrove Art Museum

Costs: ~£30 round trip train ticket, plus other expenses

Glasgow is the cultural hub of Scotland. Loaded with museums, art galleries, famous pubs, and music venues, Glasgow is worth more than just a day in Scotland. Edinburgh and Glasgow are two must-see cities when visiting Scotland. A train to Glasgow leaves every could of minutes and you can purchase your train tickets directly at the station at a kiosk. If you are making a day trip, make sure to purchase a round-trip ticket rather than 2 one-way tickets as it will save you a couple quid.

I recently spent some time in Glasgow, so I have a separate article dedicated to budget traveling in Glasgow.

River Clyde Glasgow — River Clyde view from bridge in Glasgow

How to visit Edinburgh on a budget

Edinburgh is a budget friendly destination, but due to its popularity, it is generally more expensive than the rest of Scotland. The following sections will provide first-hand insight on how to visit this beautiful city on a budget.

St Giles Cathedral — St. Gile’s Cathedral along the Royal Mile

Accommodation

Staying in a hostel in Edinburgh is the best way to go as far as accommodation. Below is a list of the cheapest (not best) hostels in a list of the cheapest places I could find in Edinburgh.

The Hostel (strange name, I know)
Princes Street Hostel
St. Christopher’s Edinburgh Original
Argyle Backpackers
St. Christopher’s Edinburgh Old Town
Royal Mile Backpackers

Breakfast and lunch

Edinburgh does not have many cheap café options, but it still will not break the bank. If you want some quick food as you explore this city by foot, stop at a Gregg’s for a heated sandwich or pastry. Gregg’s is all over Scotland and is a smart option for any budget traveler. I also recommend stopping at one of Edinburgh’s countless Tesco Express stores. They offer a lunch meal deal that includes a sandwich, snack, and drink for only 3-5 quid. Generally, no one wants to spend loads on a posh sandwich for breakfast or lunch when budget traveling, so cut these unnecessary items to give you more time and money to see the rest of the city.

View of Edinburgh old town from Calton Hill

Public transport

Buses run frequently throughout Edinburgh but are a tad more expensive than other cities. Expect to pay a bit more than £2 each bus ride. I did not use the bus system in Edinburgh due the city’s walkability. The best way to explore this city is by foot, as the buildings are beautiful, and the general vibe of the city is quite scenic. Most of Edinburgh’s attractions are also within walking distance of each other.

In terms of getting to the city, Edinburgh’s airport is Scotland’s largest airport and is about 7.5 miles from the city center. You will quickly find a bus that costs about 4 quid to the center (called the 100 Airlink). You can purchase your ticket on the bus, but make sure to bring cash! Do NOT get lazy and pick a taxi. It will cost you too much and there are good public systems in place to take you safely where you need.

If you are coming from a neighboring city, check out the train schedule. ScotRail’s website provides accurate time. It is not necessary to buy tickets in advance, however, as there are ticket kiosks around the station that will cost the same. Overall, ScotRail ticket are not exactly budget-friendly, but they will be a better option than renting a car or taxi service. Be diligent and purchase any return tickets simultaneously, as it will save you nearly double than purchasing your return ticket later on.

Attractions

As you can tell by this article, not many of Edinburgh’s attractions will break the bank. Many of the city’s museums are free! Do not hesitate to pack a full schedule of things to do. For an extensive list of more free things to do in Edinburgh, I recommend checking out Everything in Edinburgh’s website.

Conclusion

Edinburgh is a picturesque city with loads of free things to do. With pretty hikes, famous museums, and unlimited pubs, Edinburgh is an enticing backpacker’s destination. Just like the rest of the country

Scotland is a beautiful country with rich history and interesting culture. I cannot emphasize enough how special this country will make you feel as you come away with a meaningful cultural experience.

Glasgow: How to Visit Scotland’s cultural gem on a Budget

Post author By seangeismann
Post date April 11, 2023
2 Comments on Glasgow: How to Visit Scotland’s cultural gem on a Budget

Introduction

Glasgow is a lively city in western Scotland. This culture-rich city is full of loving and enthusiastic people. Glasgow is the cultural hub of Scotland unique to the rest of the country. With a history of a strong industrial sector, the city has bloomed into much more than that following the second World War. It is now famous for its ecstatic energy, live music every night, a famous university, and wonderful people.

Many travelers think of Edinburgh when they think of visiting Scotland. As much as I love Edinburgh, I would say that If you want a true Scottish cultural experience… visit Glasgow. As it may not be the gothic architectural masterpiece of Edinburgh, however, it is the real heart and soul of the culture in Scotland. It is true what they say: “the people make Glasgow.”

I enjoyed a fabulous week in this city with one of my friends who lives there. This guide will take you to the places that we visited, a list of pub recommendations (from a local), and some day trips you can take from the city when visiting. I also explain some practical tips that will help you save money when visiting. Overall, Glasgow is a very affordable city and a perfect place to start or end your journey through Scotland!

Table of Contents

[Open][Close]

Introduction
Things to do in Glasgow on a Budget
Random tips on saving money in Glasgow
Conclusion
More from Europe…

Things to do in Glasgow on a Budget

Glasgow is packed with fun activities. Plenty of which are completely free! The following list will describe some places that I particularly enjoyed.

Check out the Kelvingrove art exhibit

Highlights: Internationally influenced art collection, Glasgow Photo Gallery, Floating Heads exhibit.

Cost: Free!

Address: Argyle St, Glasgow G3 8AG, United Kingdom

The Kelvingrove art exhibit mixes art with history as it blends tradition and culture nicely. The museum is huge and the building itself is stunning. It is well organized with the exhibits labeled and floor plans posted everywhere, making it easier to get around.

Upstairs you will find art installations from Dutch, French, and Scottish artists donated to Glasgow over the years. I liked this part because it connects cultures well and explains how art from different regions at the time all influenced each other. Downstairs there are more exhibits related to more recent times and historic times. Within, you will find the Glasgow Photograph Gallery which depicts city life from the 20^th century, and a stuffed animal exhibit.

If you only have a few hours at the Kelvingrove art exhibit, do not waste your time at the stuffed animal exhibit. Every city museum in the world has this type of installation, and to make use of your time efficiently, cut this part out. The rest of the museum will be well worth your time.

Arguably my favorite part of the Kelvingrove art exhibition is that it is completely free. As it is one of Scotland’s most visited museums, it can get very crowded on weekends. Nonetheless, the gallery is huge, and you are bound to find something that interests you.

Floating Heads exhibit at Kelvingrove Art Museum

Walk around the University of Glasgow

Highlights: Harry Potter, architecture, beautiful neighborhood.

Cost: Free!

Address: Glasgow G12 8QQ, United Kingdom

The University of Glasgow was founded in 1451. Incredibly, this university is only the fourth oldest in the UK. The University is world-famous for its exceptional education standards. The pictures of these old buildings may remind you of something quite familiar… Hogwarts in Harry Potter was influenced by the buildings in the University. I recommend walking around these beautiful buildings while you are visiting the west end of Glasgow.

Stroll around “The Square” located right off University Avenue for some nice pictures. After checking out the University, stop for some drinks on Glasgow’s west end. This neighborhood has a real University vibe to it, and it comes alive at night. I recommend walking down Argyle street and Dumbarton road for fun places to drink.

Visit the Hunterian Museum at the University

Highlights: Ancient Rome exhibit, general history collection.

Cost: Free!

Address: Gilbert Scott Building (University Ave, Glasgow G12 8QQ, United Kingdom)

The Hunterian Museum is located in the Gilbert Scott building at the University of Glasgow. The museum is packed with the history of the university, the ancient history of the city, studies of the university, and more history-related exhibitions. The museum is a bit unorganized, and I recommend finding 2 or 3 exhibitions that interest you and diving into them specifically. My favorite was the Ancient Rome explanation towards the entrance of the Museum. Another amazing part about this attraction is that it is also free!

Hunterian Museum in University of Glasgow — Ancient Roman exhibit at Hunterian Museum

Wander around the Glasgow Cathedral

Highlights: 2-storied cathedral, glass-stained art.

Cost: Free!

Address: Castle St, Glasgow G4 0QZ, United Kingdom

The Glasgow Cathedral is an underrated attraction in Glasgow. It was incredibly well-designed for its time. the Cathedral was built on a hill, so there happen to be two stories. Upstairs you will find the main section of the church with gorgeous glass-sained art. Downstairs hosts smaller processions like weddings and funerals. It also acts as a museum, with explanations about time periods, the Catholic church, the history of the chapel itself, and former bishops and priests. The basement also acts as a history museum and there are even QR codes available around the mini-exhibit for an audio guide.

You can easily spend an hour at the Glasgow Cathedral, reading the graphics and listening to the walking tour. The best views of the cathedral are from the Glasgow Necropolis, which towers over the back end of the church.

Back view of Glasgow Cathedral from the Glasgow Necropolis

Explore the Glasgow Necropolis

Highlights: fancy gravestones, city views, picknick area.

Cost: Free!

Address: Castle St, Glasgow G4 0UZ, United Kingdom

The Glasgow Necropolis is located on a grassy hill that overlooks the Glasgow Cathedral to the west, and the rest of the city to the east and south. It is a massive burial site of more than 37 acres and 50,000 bodies of people from wealthy families. The Necropolis is one of the tallest points in the whole city, making it a perfect place for a picnic and stunning views.

It may sound strange having a cemetery as a top attraction in a city, but the view of the cathedral and the city are worth the visit. The gravestones are also a work of art and there are countless monuments scattered throughout the hill. I recommend finding yourself here during sunset over this amazing city.

They have a free walking tour that explains the various gravestones and the history of the park. Their website encourages donations in exchange, so make sure to bring some change.

Stroll down the city center mural trail

Highlights: city tour, St. Mugo Mural, Space Man Mural, Strathclyde University Mural.

Cost: Free!

Glasgow is full of beautiful urban art. The mural trail takes you around the city to check out some of the famous art pieces. Even if you are not seeking to walk the whole thing (it is quite long), it still makes for great scenery. The mural trail has a website where you can locate some of the known work, along with an interactive map that dives into the explanation of each piece. Guess what part I love about it most? That’s right… its free (of course).

St Mungo mural Glasgow — St. Mungo Mural in Glasgow

Window shop at the electric Buchanan Street

Buchanan street is the center of the action in Glasgow. At all times of the day, you can expect some sort of live street music right in the heart of Glasgow. Keep in mind that this is the main commercial district, so if crowds are not your thing, pick something else on this list! Buchanan Street has someone playing live music at all times of the day, which represents what you can expect of Glasgow right as you step off the train.

Get cozy at one of Glasgow’s countless pubs

Below is a list of some of the 10 best bars Glasgow offers. These are recommendations from a local! Generally, the west end of Glasgow has the most lively bars but is generally a quid or 2 more expensive. Hop around and check out the different spots!

Bunker Bar (193-199 Bath St, Glasgow G2 4HU, United Kingdom)
Slouch (203-205 Bath St, Glasgow G2 4HZ, United Kingdom)
Driftwood (2 St George’s Rd, Glasgow G3 7UL, United Kingdom)
Nice n’ Sleazy (421 Sauchiehall St, Glasgow G2 3LG, United Kingdom)
Tingle Bar (33 Mitchell St, Glasgow G1 3LN, United Kingdom)
The Arc (North Frederick Street, Glasgow G1 2BS, United Kingdom)
Horseshoe Bar (17-19 Drury St, Glasgow G2 5AE, United Kingdom)
The Pot Still (154 Hope St, Glasgow G2 2TH, United Kingdom)
Block+ (117 Bath St, Glasgow G2 2SZ, United Kingdom)
The Counting House- Wetherspoons (2 St Vincent Pl, Glasgow G1 2DH, United Kingdom)

Take the train to Stirling Castle for the day

Highlights: Stirling Castle, National Wallace Monument, Cambuskenneth Abbey.

Cost: £20 castle entrance, £20 train ticket to and from Glasgow.

Address: Castle Wynd, Stirling FK8 1EJ, United Kingdom.

Stirling Castle is a historical masterpiece located just northeast of Glasgow. It is also one of the most culturally significant sites in the country. The castle is a steep £16, but even from the stinginess of a budget traveler, I fully recommend it. The castle is well preserved and acts as a massive museum for all corners of Scottish history.

A train from Glasgow Queens Street to Stirling will cost about £15. Make sure to include a return train ticket in your transaction, as it will be cheaper than purchasing it separately.

I loved this site so much that I wrote an entire article on it. Stirling has a fascinating castle, but the town has much more to offer.

Kings room stirling castle — King’s Room in Stirling Castle

Spend a day in Edinburgh

Highlights: Arthur’s Chair, Royal Mile, free museums.

Cost: £14-19.

Edinburgh is a must-see when spending some time in Scotland. It is a huge advantage having the city only an hour and a half train ride from Glasgow, making it a viable option for a day trip. My favorite thing to do in the city is taking the hour(ish) hike up to the top of Arthur’s Chair, an old volcano mountain that towers over the town.

A second-class day ticket to and from Edinburgh from Glasgow Queens Street will cost you roughly £14-19. Trains leave multiple times per hour but depend on the time of day. Make sure to buy your return ticket at the same time! You will save a lot of money if you buy it together. Also do not worry about buying your ticket online in advance. It is the same price if you buy it at the kiosk in the station before departure.

I do not, however, recommend only seeing this city in a day. One can easily spend a weekend in Edinburgh. If you are interested in visiting Edinburgh for longer than a day, I wrote a whole blog post articulating what to do and other practical tips.

Arthurs seat hike Edinburgh — Arthur’s Seat hike in Edinburgh

Random tips on saving money in Glasgow

Get lunch or breakfast at Gregg’s. They are everywhere in the city and throughout Scotland. It is basically an easy and cheap way to get some food on the go.

Get a Tesco Meal Deal for lunch. This is a general UK deal that the grocery giant, Tesco, offers. Basically, you can snag a sandwich, snack, and drink for anywhere between £3-4, depending on the location of the store.

Use Gigguide.com to find local live music. Glasgow is filled with live music venues and tons of nightly shows. This website helps you filter the results to the type of music you are looking for.

Always buy a return ticket with your train pass. This goes for either ScotRail train travel or subway. For some reason, it is only £0.40 additional charge for a two-way. If you buy your return ticket on a separate transaction, you will lose about £5 on the subway, and more than £5 on ScotRail tickets.

Conclusion

Glasgow is by far my favorite city in Scotland and you will soon see why. As it may not be the most attractive city you have been to, but the city’s rich character and significant culture take the trophy. The energy of Glasgow will make you want to stay longer. It is also a budget-friendly destination, as most of the city’s attractions are free of charge! I hope you enjoy Glasgow as much as I did!

How to Travel on a Budget to Strasbourg, France

Post author By seangeismann
Post date March 27, 2023

Introduction

I visited Strasbourg on a road trip with some friends. I came away with so many more questions about this beautiful city. It is inspiring and it captures historical timepieces.

I invite you to read this article as I explain a brief overview of the city’s history. The passage then gives you specific places to visit, other tips, and helpful resources when planning your trip to the Alsace capital. This is the perfect guide for you when visiting Strasbourg on a budget!

Table of Contents

[Open][Close]

Introduction
A Brief History Lesson of Strasbourg
Things to do in Strasbourg on a Budget
How to Visit Strasbourg in 1 Day
Conclusion
More from Europe…

A Brief History Lesson of Strasbourg

Strasbourg is a beautiful city rich in history. It began as a Celtic village but was soon under Roman control. In the 4^th century, the Franks, a Germanic tribe, took control of the city. About 300 years later, the Roman Empire gained control of Strasbourg again.

The city began developing some of its famous monuments from the 12^th to the 14^th centuries like Strasbourg Cathedral, Three Kings Clock, and St. Thomas’ Church. Later, in 1697, the French annexed the city from the Romans. After, it was seized by the German Empire in the Franco-Prussian War.

Strasbourg was soon given back to France during the Treaty of Versailles in 1918 after World War 1. Germany once again took control of the border city through Germany’s Nazi campaign of World War 2 in 1940. Finally, in 1944 France reclaimed Strasbourg, and today it is one of the most cultural and beautiful cities in France.

Strasbourg is full of history translated by amazing buildings. Most of those buildings were built under German occupation. Their government was using the occupied territory to show the greatness and richness of Germany. They injected a lot of time and money into Strasbourg to build remarkable buildings that represented the power of Germany. Nowadays Strasbourg’s greatest budlings represent German heritage.

You can read more about the timeline of Strasbourg.

You can read more into the details of events and a different perspective of the Alsace region of France.

As you can see, Strasbourg has a rich history of strategic importance to many groups of people. This is visible in the city as it contains many forms of architectural design. Due to recent history, the French city appears German.

Things to do in Strasbourg on a Budget

The following sections include some things to do in Strasbourg that I visited!

Check out the La Maison des Tanneurs (House of Tanners)

This house’s location was pivotal for developing leather. It is situated on a beautiful street with plenty of similar homes, but it is arguably the most beautiful of them all. It provides insight into how the homes in this region looked. You can also notice the steep roof (like others in Strasbourg) was once used for storing grain and leather. More information about La Maison des Tanneurs will help you dive deeper into its history.

Walk along Ponts Couverts de Strasbourg (Vauban Dam)

Ponts Couverts de Strasbourg is a famous structure that was built and used to protect the city from intruders. It did this by releasing water into the southern border of the town to make it harder for enemy ships to penetrate. The structure is accessible, and you can walk along the bottom and top floor of it. The top floor provides a gorgeous view of the city and the cathedral. You can dive more into information and history about Ponts Couvers de Strasbourg.

View from the top of Ponts Couverts de Strasbourg

Ponder the newly constructed Gare de Strasbourg

Gare de Strasbourg is a gorgeous train station in Strasbourg that you will likely walk through if you travel to the city by train. The Gare de Strasbourg was constructed under German occupation from 1880 to 1890. The original train station was quite basic, made out “gré des vosges”, a typical stone from this part of France.

The glass roof was added in the summer of 2007, with the aim to modernize and extend the train station for the release of the high-speed train in Strasbourg during the year 2007. Although controversial, the huge glass bubble surrounding the train station is now the identity of the Gare de Strasbourg. The newly constructed glass roof is now the most iconic part of the structure.

Sit down at Gutenburg Square

Gutenberg Square is one of the most iconic squares in Strasbourg. The Strasbourg Cathedral towers over the bustling square, making it a perfect place to enjoy the view and people-watch. This is one of the most popular squares in Strasbourg, so I do not recommend sitting down for dinner here as prices tend to be above average.

Gaze at Maison Kammerzel

The Maison Kammerzel is the oldest building in the entire city of Strasbourg, dating back to 1467. It is beautifully conserved and well-positioned in the center of Strasbourg. Walk past this monument when strolling through the city center.

Feel the vibes at La Place du Marche Gayot

The Place du Marche Gayot is one of my favorite squares in Strasbourg. The square is full of the outdoor setting of bars and restaurants, and the vibe is amazing. It’s a good spot to grab a drink in summer and enjoy the many happy hours! Grab a seat at “the QG”, which has a wide selection of typical tap beers such as Kastel Rouge or Heineken.

Take a cheap boat tour in Strasbourg

This is the cheapest tour we could find in the city. A boat tour in Strasbourg is perfect because you can truly feel the layers of history. The further you go out from the starting point of the tour, the newer the buildings get. You eventually reach the European Parliament building, which is cool to see from the water as well. The tour lasted about an hour and costs 12€. You can book your ticket online.

Eat Flammkuchen at Le Gruber

Flammkuchen is a traditional dish that originated form the Alsace region of France. It is basically a flatbread with sour cream, onions, bacon, and more. We found an affordable location to get a quick lunch at Le Gruber, where Flammkuchen was only 10€. It also has a unique atmosphere inside with decorations that highlight some distinctive features of the Alsace region.

Visit the Cathedral of Strasbourg.

The Cathedral of Strasbourg (Cathédral de Strasbourg), is a Gothic masterpiece located in the city of Strasbourg. The construction of the cathedral began in 1176 and took more than 250 years to complete. During this time, the cathedral underwent several architectural changes, with each generation of builders leaving their mark on the structure.

The cathedral’s most striking feature is its spire, which rises 142 meters high and was added in the 15th century. Initially, the cathedral was supposed to have 2 spires, but various reasons lead to this unique spire. During the construction period, Strasbourg was facing a plague epidemy, resulting in a lack of finance and workers for the 2^nd spine construction. Some rumors also say that the floor of Strasbourg, made from “Gré des Vosges” and is a crumbly type of stone, couldn’t handle the weight of the 2^nd spice.

Astronomical clock on the Cathedral of Strasbourg

Throughout its history, the cathedral has played a significant role in the religious and political life of the region. In 1518, the cathedral was the site of the famous “Dancing Plague,” a mysterious phenomenon where hundreds of people danced uncontrollably for days on end.

The cathedral also played a key role in the Protestant Reformation, with its iconic stained-glass windows depicting biblical scenes and Protestant figures.

During the French Revolution, the cathedral suffered significant damage and was repurposed as a Temple of Reason. It wasn’t until the 19th century that the cathedral was restored to its former glory, thanks to the efforts of the architect, Viollet-le-Duc.

Today, the Cathédral de Strasbourg remains one of the most iconic buildings in France, attracting millions of visitors each year who come to marvel at its stunning architecture and rich history. It is possible to see the cathedral with 2 spires by looking into the glass reflection of the cathedral through the shop window located on 8^th street of Mercière 67000 Strasbourg.

The Cathédral de Strasbourg visit is free of charge. The inside decorations are gorgeous, a must-see is the “Astronomic Clock”, located on the front right of the church.

Another must-see is the roof of the Cathedral, which you can climb for an additional 5-10€. The stairs are accessible on the right part of the church. There are more than 300 steps, that lead to the roof of the church. The roof platform offers a mind-blowing view of the city, and a small museum is located on the roof as well.

Front view of the Cathedral of Strasbourg

Have a drink near the river

Strasbourg is crossed by the Rhine, which is a big river. The city constructed a floatable dock called “Embarcadère Quais des bateliers”. On a summer evening, this spot is perfect for people to grab a drink and chill next to the river.

Check out Le parc de l’orangerie and the EU neighborhood

Le parc de l’orangerie is one of the biggest parks in the city, with more than 260,000 square meters. This parc is well known to be the favorite spot of storks, a typical bird of the region. The park is amazing to visit in the spring or summer when the sun lighted all the flowers.

The parc de l’orangerie is located next to the European District, where the European parliament is located. If you go to Parc de l’orangerie, do not forget to stop by this neighborhood!

How to Visit Strasbourg in 1 Day

The city of Strasbourg is not huge, so most of the city’s attractions can be seen in a single day. You should plan on stopping at one café and one restaurant to have a full experience.

Strasbourg is a well-connected city that you can easily walk in one day. The city incentivizes visitors who arrive by car to park on the outskirts of the city. Any public parking outside of the center is ticketed. Make sure to keep your parking ticket, as it also acts as a tram card!

The map below is the route that I took while exploring the city. It brushes over the main attractions (in red) in the town in an efficient fashion. The route (in white) can be followed roughly in either direction.

Recommended day trip itinerary map of Strasbourg France — Recommended day trip itinerary map of Strasbourg, France

White line: Preferred Route (clockwise and counterclockwise)

Red cercle: attractions/recommendations

Conclusion

Overall, Strasbourg is a historic and picturesque city with loads to do. It is also an affordable location, as most sightseeing is free to the public. Strasbourg is one of the prettiest cities in all of France. If you are looking to explore this city on a budget and want to learn more, I invite you to follow this guide.

A view of Strasbourg from the top of the Cathedral of Strasbourg

How to day trip to Dinant, Belgium

Post author By seangeismann
Post date February 23, 2023

Introduction

Dinant is a beautiful village in southern Belgium best known for its beer, views, and history. La Meuse River carves the beautiful landscape shaping canyons and the surrounding forest of this quaint town. Dinant is famed for the Abbey of Notre-Dame de Leffe, founding the present-day renowned beer. With tons of action packed into this tiny town, Dinant is a place worthy of a visit!

Table of Contents

[Open][Close]

Introduction
Brief history lesson of Dinant
Where is Dinant?
- How to get from Brussels to Dinant
My trip to Dinant
What to do in Dinant
Conclusion
More from Europe…

Leffe Maison beers — Beers on patio of Leffe Maison beer museum

Brief history lesson of Dinant

Dinant is a tiny town with a population of roughly 12,000 inhabitants. However, this little town packs a lot of history. Dinant was the hometown of Adolphe Sax in the 19^th century. That name probably sounds familiar because Mr. Sax was the inventor of the saxophone.

Additionally, Dinant is the birthplace of Leffe beer. For the beer connoisseur, this is especially cool because Leffe was one of the first beers made in the blond style. The Abbey of Notre Dame de Leffe was founded ages ago in 1152. The monks in the region created the brew as a healthy alternative to other drinks, as sicknesses were spreading rapidly throughout the region. Because of the local herbs and hops used in the brew, the beer has a particularly higher alcohol content in this region.

If you want a more detailed history lesson, I invite you to read more.

Leffe Maison museum — Beer tasting inside Leffe Maison

Where is Dinant?

Dinant is in Belgium’s southern Wallonia, positioned inside the providence of Namur. It is situated along the La Meuse River that forms the canyons through the town. Dinant lies within the Ardennes Mountain range, some of Belgium’s most prominent landscapes. If you head south from Brussels, you will notice the vast change in scenery as you swoop through this gorgeous and bumpy landscape.

How to get from Brussels to Dinant

The closest major city to Dinant is Brussels. It is also well connected with very frequent trips to and from the two.

The easiest way to access this beautiful oasis is by train. The journey will take you about 1.5 hours each way. Trains leave (roughly) every 20 minutes from the Brussels-Luxembourg station in Brussels. Belgian Train’s website is the best resource to check the accuracy of specific departure times. A one-way ticket is only € 7.10 if you are under 26 years of age, and € 14.50 for a full-priced adult.

You can also drive a car, taking a little over 1 hour to reach Dinant from Brussels.

My trip to Dinant

I went to Dinant on a day trip while visiting Brussels during the fall time. A day trip leaves enough time to properly explore the town and visit the renowned Leffe Abbey. Dinant is a hidden location that many do not know much about. It does not resemble the rest of the geographically flat Belgium. The Ardennes truly make a pretty landscape different from the rest of the country.

Dinant, and Belgium generally, is not a cheap place to visit. I spent a total of € 35 on train rides, beers, and attractions. Consider € 35 to be the bare minimum you can expect to pay when coming from Brussels by train. It would be easy to spend more, because almost every attraction in the town has an entrance fee.

I was partly drawn here from the imposing cliffs overlooking the city, and partly because of the famous beer that comes from Dinant. I love beer and the history of the monks making particularly strong beer here in the 12^th century drew me to learn more. The pictures in this article are beautiful, but nothing compares to truly being there. Dinant is an underrated location, and I cannot recommend it enough.

What to do in Dinant

Tour Leffe Maison

Touring Leffe Maison is at the top of this list because my experience here was amazing. The Leffe Maison is a museum of the history of Leffe beer and the culture that surrounds it. The interactive exhibit takes you through time, starting at the beginning stages of the bottling process, explaining ingredients, and the history of Leffe’s famous glassware.

The ticket to enter the museum is € 10, which includes two Leffe beers comprising of one alcoholic and one non-alcoholic. If the weather is nice, there is a beautiful patio to enjoy your beers out to the side of the museum that overlooks the valley and the town of Dinant. Keep in mind that you need cash to buy your ticket to the museum.

Explore Grotte de Dinant la Merveilleuse caves

Dinant has some hidden caves that many would not expect! There are guided tours within specified times. The tours are available in English, Dutch, and French. If some cave exploring sounds like something you would like to do, I recommend checking out the Grotte de Dinant website to contact them for specific visiting times, as it often varies.

Walk over the Pont Charles de Gaulle

Pont Charles de Gaulle is the most picturesque spot in the city of Dinant. The bridge hangs over the la Meuse River through the beautiful valley of cliffs and forests. It also hosts the flags of over 50 nations.

View Dinant from Pont Charles de Gaulle Bridge

Gaze at Collégiale Notre-Dame de Dinant

the Notre Dame de Dinant is a beautiful cathedral that blends perfectly into its surroundings. The cathedral was built during the 13^th century. The gothic style of the dome gives an interesting feeling from the middle ages. The church is in the center of the town and is free to enter.

explore the old ruins of the Castle of Crevecoeur

The Castle of Crevecoeur is an old defensive structure built back in the 14^th century. This attraction is slightly far away from the other attractions. It can be seen from Dinant and is a gorgeous hike! I recommend diving more into the history of this location.

Hike up to Citadelle de Dinant

The Citadelle de Dinant is the prominent structure that sits on a cliff overlooking the town. It is hard to miss when you are visiting Dinant. To get to the top of the rock, you can either walk up the stairs, take the cable car, or drive to the top around the back side. To get the most out of the experience, I recommend taking the 400 stairs that climb to the top of the cliff. No matter which way you want to go, it will cost € 11. This price gives you access to the beautiful hike and entrance to the structure. If you want the best view of the entire valley, take advantage of this cool opportunity.

Rue Grande Street in Dinant — Rue Grande street in Dinant

Conclusion

Dinant is a beautiful hidden town in the Ardennes Mountains. With only a 2-hour train ride from Brussels, you could be in this picturesque Wallonia town. Dinant is perfect for either a day trip or a weekend getaway. Here, you can climb up a cliff to the Citadelle de Dinant, tour Dinant’s fascinating history of beer, or explore even explore a cave! This guide gave you basic knowledge of Dinant’s history while introducing some of the attractions that this region hosts.

How to Travel to the Hague

Post author By seangeismann
Post date February 20, 2023

Introduction

The Hague is a culturally significant and beautiful coastal city in the Netherlands. This guide will help you plan your trip when visiting the Hague on a budget, along with a few recommended places to see!

Table of Contents

[Open][Close]

Introduction
How expensive is the Hague?
Experience traveling to the Hague
How to get around the Hague
Budget-friendly activities in the Hague
Conclusion
Read more from the Netherlands…

The Hague is a beautiful city in the South Holland Region of the Netherlands. It is situated on the North Sea, providing a plethora of activities that can satisfy a budget traveler. The Hague is also an important location, hosting both the International Criminal Court and the International Court of Justice. Additionally, the city also hosts the Dutch Parliament. With a rich history and cultural significance, the Hague is a fascinating city to visit in the Netherlands.

The Hague is a perfect city for a day trip in the winter, and a weekend trip in the summer. When the sun shines during the day in the summer, the beach is prime and packed with people. The Hague has some of the best beaches on the North Sea. In the winter it is quite cold and windy, but perfect for some serious surfing. No matter when you decide to come, I recommend splitting your time between relaxing near the beach and exploring the city center packed with shops, museums, and history.

Scheveningen Pier view — View of rainbow from Scheveningen Pier

How expensive is the Hague?

It is important to note that the Hague is notably more expensive than other Dutch cities in general. Because of its international presence and high income, restaurants and shops are more expensive. However, this guide will give you tips on where to go in the Hague when you are traveling on a budget!

Experience traveling to the Hague

I visited the Hague for a day trip from Nijmegen. Even though the two cities sit over 130 km from each other, it takes only a bit over an hour to travel by train. Due to the Hague’s central location in the Netherlands, it is easy to venture to its beach for a day or 2. If you do make a day trip, start your day on the beach near the Scheveningen Pier, then head towards the city for the evening. However, if you want a nice sunset, visit the beach in the evening as it is situated nicely for a breathtaking sunset view!

How to get around the Hague

Trams and buses provide easy access around the city from the beach to the center. Tram 9 will take you directly from the station to the Scheveningen Strand. To get a Dutch cultural experience, though, you should rent a bike from Den Haag Centrum. It will only take you about 25 minutes to cycle from the train station to the beach and only a few minutes to get to the other main attractions in the city center. If you want to save about 5-6 €, you can also walk to the beach in a little over an hour.

To use public transportation or rent a bike, you will need an OV-Chipkaart. They can be purchased in advance or at large international train stations (like Den Haag Centrum). They are basically reusable transportation cards that you pre-load money onto. Please remember that you will need a minimum of 20 € on the card to use it. An OV-Chipkaart is also required to rent a bike from the station, so do not miss out on this step! Trams and buses in The Hague cost anywhere from 2-4 € and bikes cost 3 € per day.

Budget-friendly activities in the Hague

Cruise the Scheveningen Noorderstrand

The Scheveningen Noorderstrand is the main beach in The Hague. The beach is free for public access. Along the coast, there are loads of places to eat and drink. If you are traveling on a budget, do not get a meal on the beach. Naturally, it is overpriced, and the best thing you can do is pack a meal to have a picnic. If you go north on the beach past the Scheveningen Pier, there are gorgeous sand dunes that you can walk past. This is the less touristy part of the beach, so it is quiet and nice. If you are here during the winter, check out the massive waves that attract professional surfboarders!

Explore the Scheveningen Pier – climb spiral stairs.

The Scheveningen Pier is probably my favorite spot in the Hague, located right on the Scheveningen Noorderstrand. It is two stories, with the top having plenty of places to eat and drink. This is the best place to hang out for a beautiful sunset while enjoying a beer. If you follow the pier to the end, there is a spiral staircase that takes you to the top of the best view in all of the Hague. It is a bungy jumping spot, but you can access it without jumping off!

Gaze at the beautiful De Ridderzaal

Once you get enough of the coastline, I recommend heading into the city to check out the historical Binnenhof which hosts beautiful buildings like the Dutch Senate building, De Ridderzaal, and Hofkapel. For a picturesque spot, you should head towards the Standbeeld Johan van Oldenbarnevelt memorial that sits across the water from the Binnenhof. Here, you can sit at the green park and gaze at the historic buildings that were some of the first in the Netherlands.

View of Binnenhof from across Hofvijver pond — View of the Binnenhof at night

Learn some Dutch history at the Historical Museum of the Hague

If you want to dive deeper into the Dutch history roots, the Museum on the History of the Hague is an interactive and informative museum that sits perpendicular to the Binnenhof. The price of this museum is average compared to most Dutch museums costing 15 € for adults, 7.50 € for students, and 5 € for children. It will take you about 2 hours to get through all of the exhibits in the museum. You can find your tickets online before you arrive!

Paintings inside the Dutch History Museum in the Hague

Visiting the Hague on a budget

Just like most Dutch cities, this location is not necessarily cheap, but you can manage without a lot of money. I spent a total of 23 € on transportation within the city, coffee, museum entrance, and a packed lunch. Because of the beach, it is not hard to get away without spending loads of money on entrance fees. You will notice that the Hague is generally more expensive than the average Dutch city, but it is easy to avoid paying much at all!

Conclusion

The Hague is a perfect city for a small day trip or weekend trip. Visiting locations like Scheveningen Noorderstrand and De Ridderzaal gives you a beautiful mixture of both a culture and a relaxing beachside experience. All these activities make the Hague an underrated Dutch city. I hope this guide was useful for you when planning a quick trip to this historical, coastal, Dutch city!

Tags budget travel, netherlands travel, the hague

Italy Travel Guides

How to Travel to Rome on a Budget

Post author By seangeismann
Post date February 11, 2023

Introduction

Rome is a fantastic destination for budget traveling! It is the most historically preserved city in the world, hosting famous attractions like the Colosseum, Roman Forums, the Vatican City, the Pantheon, Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano, and more! It is also home to one of the best food cultures in the world. Even though Rome is a bucket list destination, it is still affordable.

Since so many people travel to Rome, there are loads of options for places to stay, eat, and explore. This guide will take you through our personal experiences and how you can travel in a budget-friendly manner to this ancient city. It will also give you tips on specific tips on saving money and some of the best places to visit!

Sallustiano Obelisk view from Spanish Steps — View from top of Spanish Steps

Our trip to Rome on a Budget

We spend 5 days in Rome in the middle of August. This is the hottest and busiest time of the year. If you plan on going to Rome in August, prepare yourself mentally. However, the evenings in the summer in Rome are special. Everyone is out at night, sitting outside, and smiling. There are also some night festivals like Lungo il Trevere to explore after dinner. We spent upwards of 4 hours at dinner every night. Rome has a vibrant nightlife compared to the rest of Italy, so you must take advantage of it.

We planned to visit one main attraction per day. For example, we spent an entire day at the Vatican Museum, then wandered the neighborhoods near it. Do not plan to do too much in one day because the city is massive and the attractions are expensive. The only exception to this is to visit both the Colosseum and the Roman Forum in a single day because of their 24-hour ticket deal.

The following sections will give you first-hand recommendations from a budget-friendly perspective!

view from Vestal Virgins garden in the Roman Forums — Vestal Virgin Garden in the Roman Forums

Recommended things to do in Rome on a budget

Vatican City Museum

Price: 17€

The Vatican City Museum is the first place on this list because it is a requirement when you visit Rome. This is the best museum ever created and an absolute must-see. Expect to spend about 3 hours as the museum takes you through different stages of human history. Prices vary based on your age, but if you are over 18 years old, it costs 17€. Make sure to buy your ticket online. The time at which you schedule your entrance is more of a suggestion, as no one checks the time of your ticket.

Attend Lungo il Trevere (August only)

Price: FREE

Lungo il Trevere is a seasonal festival along River Tiber. It is a nighttime festival to avoid the heat. There are games, shops, and pop-up restaurants along the water. It is a cool experience with live music and upbeat energy. The festival also takes place near the Trastevere neighborhood if you wanted to keep the party going! You can find the bulk of the action starting under the Ponte Sisto footbridge and ending around the Ponte Palatino bridge (roughly).

Castel Sant’Angelo

Price: 13€

Castel Sant’Angelo is a brilliant castle to view. It is nice during the day, but it is vibrant at night. For the perfect picture, stand at the St. Angelo Bridge facing the castle. The parks surrounding the castle are also a perfect break from the sun. We did not enter the castle, but if you were interested in this activity, it costs about 13€. You can reserve a ticket before you go.

Gaze at the Pantheon

Price: FREE

The Pantheon is amazing because it is the largest free-standing cement dome ever. To think the Romans built this structure that still stands today is amazing. It is one of the best-kept monuments in Rome. The Pantheon is also amazing because it is FREE and the cue to enter takes only about 10 minutes.

Piazza della Rotonda in Roma — Front view of the Pantheon

Experience the Colosseum and Roman Forums

Price: 18€

You probably already have the Colosseum at the top of your to-do list of Rome. The massive structure cannot be ignored. It is gorgeous from the outside, but nothing beats walking around inside the walls. Make sure to buy the bundle ticket that includes the Roman Forum and Palatine hill entrance tickets. Most of the websites cost the same, but we bought ours through COOP Culture. You will find tons of ticket options, but one general rule is to NOT spend more than 18€!

Roman Forum view from top of Capital Hill

I recommend following Rick Steve’s Audio when you enter the Colosseum and Roman Forums. He gives a fantastic audio guide for free! Many people upwards of 50€ for a personal guide. This is not necessary, and in my opinion, is the worst way to experience these places because of the swarm of people they place you in. Make sure to download the app and preload the tour with some Wi-Fi.

I recommend starting the day early at the Colosseum, stopping for lunch, then continuing to the Roman Forum. This allows you to beat the midday crowd of the Colosseum. It also works nicely because they are right next to each other. Make sure to pack food because the most overpriced food in the whole country lies within walking distance of these monuments. After lunch, start at the entrance of the Forum closest to the Colosseum and make a counterclockwise loop. If you follow Rick Steve’s Audio Guide that I included in the last paragraph, these instructions will be described more clearly.

La sala della Rotonda in the Vatican Museum

Go to the Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano

Price: FREE

The Basilica di San Giovanni Laterano is the most underrated building in the entire city. The locals say this is the most beautiful church in the city. It is also nicknamed the “mother of all churches in the world.” It blends both Christian and Pagan eras in its sculptures, paintings, and architecture. You will be greeted with no cue or cost to enter, making it even more special. I recommend reading more about Rome’s most underrated monument before visiting.

Take a wine tour in the neighboring town, Frascati

Price: 65€ or 75€

Frascati is a cute town that lies in the hills surrounding Rome. It takes about 20 minutes on the train from Roma Termini to Tor Vergata (the closest train station) and runs every 20 minutes. The town is culturally significant to the wine production of the region. The temperature is also considerably cooler than Rome because of its situation at a higher elevation and nice breeze flow.

Old Frascati lunch wine tour — Old Frascati lunchtime wine tour

We chose to tour the beautiful property of Old Frascati. They have a morning and a night tour, costing 65€ and 75€ per person respectively. This includes transportation to and from the train station, wine tasting, a property tour, lunch, and a city tour with more snacks. The guides are lovely and entertaining. The tasting is the best part as they provide three different wines with paired food.

I loved the tour because of the enthusiasm of the tour guides, the beauty of the property, and the local immersive experience. They allow you to walk through the vineyards that overlook the city and explore the cellars that store their wine. You can book a time slot directly on their website.

Old Frascati vineyards — View from Old Frascati wine tour

Places to eat and drink in Rome

We spent most of our dinners and nights in the Trastevere neighborhood. I would like to stress how vibrant this area is at night. Every restaurant is full, everyone is drinking and laughing, and everyone is smiling. It is cool to walk around this neighborhood during the day, but it comes to life at night. Most of the recommendations that follow lie within the Trastevere neighborhood.

All these recommendations are places that we have experienced. Keep in mind that there are more than 10 thousand places to eat and drink in Rome, so this guide is merely a consideration. It is also important to remember that everyone living and visiting the city is going out to eat around the same time so … Book a table!!! It is the only way to get the best food when you want it. Most restaurants allow you to create an online reservation.

Pier 21

Address: Lungotevere in Sassia, 3, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

Pier 21 is located on the River Tiber and is open for drinks in the evening. I would not consider this a budget place to get a drink, but it has a cool atmosphere right along the water with a dancing area.

Ristorante WikiWiki Trastevere

Address: Piazza della Scala, 56, 00153 Roma RM, Italy

WikiWiki is a nice place to stop to eat or drink located right at the heart of Trastevere. The wait staff is lively, and the drinks come quickly. Having dinner at this location is popular so make sure to reserve a table!

Latteria Trastevere

Address: Vicolo della Scala, 1, 00153 Roma RM, Italy

Latteria Trastevere is a trendy little wine bar in a side street. The entire interior is made up of wine bottles. Their wine options are endless, and it is a perfect place to sit outside with a date. I recommend coming here for a few drinks before your dinner reservations.

La Parolaccia

Address: Vicolo del Cinque, 3, 00153 Roma RM, Italy

La Parolaccia is a very popular dinner destination in Trastevere neighborhood. Because of its popularity, make sure to book your reservation online.

Scholars Lounge Irish Pub

Address: Via del Plebiscito, 101B, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

This is the best (and likely the only) place to watch sports games all day. This pub is located centrally near some famous attractions, making their prices higher than average. Since Rome is such an international location, you will likely find people from all over watching their local sports teams. I recommend stopping in here to meet some people and watch your team play!

Ristorante la Campana

Address: Vicolo della Campana, 18, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

We had dinner at Ristorante la Campana and it was amazing. This restaurant is located near Castel Sant’Angelo. There is no option to book a table online, so I recommend calling them: at +39 066875273.

Spaccio Pasta

Via Emanuele Filiberto, 182/186, 00185 Roma RM, Italy

Spaccio Pasta is a small restaurant right across the street from Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano. I recommend coming here for a nice lunch. If you are on a budget, this is a perfect location with affordable meals. The staff is friendly as well! Do not worry about making reservations at this location.

rear view of the Colosseum — Rear view of the Colosseum

Tips on traveling to Rome on a budget

Rome is a location where you can easily blow a paycheck. However, there are plenty of general rules you should follow if you want to stay within a certain budget. Each section below breaks down a category of expenditures and how you can manage to stay within your monetary boundaries:

inside the Colosseum — Inside view of the Colosseum

Breakfast and an espresso

These two things should not cost you more than 3€. I am not even going to recommend a specific place because there are too many to count. Generally, stay away from buying your sacred Italian pastries from bus or train stations and in high-trafficked areas.

Pack a lunch

After you finish touring one of Rome’s world-famous attractions you will be hungry. Most tourists fall victim to the trap of an expensive restaurant right next to the Colosseum. To avoid this mistake, pack a lunch instead.

Picking the right place to eat dinner

Dinner is a sacred meal in Italy and you should also treat it as such as a visitor. This was our biggest expense when visiting Rome, but you can easily find meals for under 12€. Rome is interesting in the way that the cost of your meal does not determine its quality. Many low-cost restaurants happen to be some of the best. Nonetheless, you should pick the right places to eat, as you will spend your entire evening there.

Picking the right attractions to pay for in Rome

When in Rome, you must plan to spend money on the attractions. Always pay for the bundle ticket package of the Colosseum and the Roman Forum. I understand 18€ is not favorable, but you simply cannot visit Rome without exploring its ancient past. Plan about 18-20€ per day on attractions. In general, the must-see paid locations to see are the Colosseum, Roman Forum/Palatine hill, and the Vatican Museums. Other locations are cool to enter, but not necessary for an immersive Roman experience.

Inside the Pantheon in Rome — Inside view of the Pantheon

Public transportation in Rome

I don’t know if I am allowed to tell you this… but the buses are basically free and it seems like no one ever buys a ticket. The metro, however, has a stop gate so you must buy a ticket for that.

Recommended accommodation for a budget trip to Rome

Rome is littered with hostels and hotels. We stayed in a perfect little hostel called Residenza Laterano that we booked through hostel worlds for only 26€ per night. Many hostels range between 30-40€ per night, so this is a considerably good deal. This location also has a mini kitchen with a fridge.

In general, if you are planning a budget trip to Rome, do not book a hostel or hotel near the big attractions. The public buses are fantastic and there are stops everywhere. Certain lines also run almost all night, so you do not have to worry about calling an expensive taxi to get back from your night out in Trastevere! Since Rome is one of the most traveled destinations in the world, you will find yourself with endless options for accommodation.

Front view of the Colosseum in Rome — Front view of the Colosseum

Conclusion

Rome is a budget-friendly and historical city. It is truly a bucket list destination with the best museums, monuments, and food. This guide provides you with first-hand knowledge based on our recent experience. However, Rome is such a vast city with thousands of places to eat and hundreds of monuments, but we compiled a list of some tips that we learned along the way. You will definitely fall in love with the energy that this city illuminates just like we did!

Things to do in Nijmegen

Introduction

Nijmegen boasts itself of being the oldest city in all the Netherlands. Due to the large population of students in the city, it has a young and fruitful vibe. Nijmegen is in the Gelderland province, directly west of the German border. With loads of fun things to do, Nijmegen is truly a hidden gem in the Netherlands. This guide will give you some places to drink, parks to lounge in, and locations to attend events!

I lived in Nijmegen for a student exchange in 2022 and experienced both hot and cold seasons in the city. I recommend coming in the warmer months between April and October, as there are more things to do. With so many parks, bars, clubs, restaurants, and young people, Nijmegen is a true student city. It is appropriate to spend about 1 or 2 full days in the city to get a proper experience.

Kerkboog building in city center square — Kerkboog building with quaint square

Walk around Nijmegen’s parks

Nijmegen is known for its pretty green spaces that surround the city. There are places to swim, stroll, or simply hang out. To take advantage of this, I recommend taking a bike to one of the recommended parks on the list that follows:

Valkhofpark

Address: Kelfkensbos 59, 6511 TB Nijmegen, Netherlands

Valkhofpark is one of the most popular parks in Nijmegen. Many events are hosted here including music festivals and cultural festivals. I recommend keeping up to date with the happenings on their website. This park contains some of the city’s most famous ruins like Barbarossa-ruine, and Sint-Nicolaaskapel. The park also perches on a hill that overlooks the Waal River and the beautiful bridges of Nijmegen.

Kronenburgerpark

Address: Kronenburgerplaats 6511, 6511 AW Nijmegen, Netherlands

Kronenburgerpark is a gorgeous, hilly park located on the west side of the city center in Nijmegen. It contains a pond, a seasonal waterfall, and historic monuments like Kruittoren and the Leeuw monument. To get a view from above, climb the backside of the Kruittoren. This is the perfect park to lounge with your friends.

Marienbosch

Address: Mariënboomseweg, Nijmegen, Netherlands

Marienbosch is an ideal park to walk your dog. It is hidden in the southeastern region of the city with very few people. If you want a quiet forest experience, I recommend checking this location out. The trees in this park provide nice shade in the hotter months, and colors in the fall months.

Goffertpark

Address: Muntweg 442, 6532 TP Nijmegen, Netherlands

Goffertpark is a large park in the southwestern region of the city. NEC Nijmegen, a Dutch Eredivisie team, plays in the park at Gofferstadion. You can try and scrape some tickets on their website. Even if you are not a football/soccer fan, the park hosts loads of music festivals and more. It is also a great place to gather with some friends!

Sint-Nicolaaskapel monument in Valkhofpark in Nijmegen — Sint-Nicolaaskapel in Valkhofpark

Recreatiegebied Berendonck

Address: Weg door de Berendonck 6, 6603 CR Wijchen, Netherlands

This park hosts a man-made swimming lake on the far western side of the city. There is also a water-skiing rope pull around a fun obstacle! You can look at more information about this on their website. This is truly the best place in the city to swim for a bit.

Hang out at the Waal River

Nijmegen is geographically blessed with the Waal River running through the north of the city. It is a gorgeous place to be in the summer, as there are plenty of spots to enjoy the water from. Below are some locations and coordinates to lead you on your way!

Waalstrandje- South

Coordinates: 51°50’59.9″N 5°52’28.3″E

Once you cross the suspended bridge of Wandelbrug Ooypoort, you will follow a bridge over to a sandy area. This path goes very far back, but you are able to hang out at any of the small beaches along the way! Here, you will find some of the best sunsets in all of Nijmegen.

Waalstrandje- North

Coordinates: 51.854417, 5.855852

To access this beach, cross over De Oversteek, a beautiful bridge, and walk down the stairs to the right. Here, you will find the biggest beach in Nijmegen. They have facilities, and bike parking too!

View of Waalstrandje beach from Waalbrug bridge in Nijmegen — Waalstrandje from Waalbrug Bridge

Go bar crawling in Njimegen

Nijmegen is a student city, which means tons of bars and late-night activities. No matter where you go, you will face the same prices, as prices throughout the city stay more or less consistent. Below is a list of some of my favorite bars in Nijmegen!

Tierney’s Irish Pub

Address: Molenstraat 55, 6511 HA Nijmegen, Netherlands

Tierney’s is a fun-energy Irish pub with a food menu. They are open as late as 2 am on weekends. This was my favorite bar in all of Nijmegen because of the friendly staff. There is a trivia night every Monday and the craic gets mighty!

Tierneys Irish Pub in Nijmegen — Tierney’s Monday trivia night

Paak Vinyl Bar

Address: Bloemerstraat 23, 6511 EB Nijmegen, Netherlands

Paak vinyl bar is one of the newer bars in Nijmegen. They play funky tunes all night and offer a live vinyl mix session on weekends. They also have board games hidden in the corner, so it is a perfect place to bring a big group and groove!

Paak Vinyl Bar vinyl listening table — Paak Vinyl bar listening table

Wijnbar Lebowski

Address: Bloemerstraat 84, 6511 EM Nijmegen, Netherlands

Wijnbar Lebowski is the only true wine bar in Nijmegen. It is tucked away with limited seating inside. It has a calmer vibe compared to the other places on this list. I recommend coming here on a date with one other person, as the tables are small.

Roxy’s Karaoke Bar

Address: Platenmakersstraat 3, 6511 TZ Nijmegen, Netherlands

Roxy’s offers karaoke 7 nights a week! This place is very lively on the weekend and draws a fun, international crowd. It is also a fun place to go with a large group of friends! Roxy’s has a QR code on the wall where you can cue your favorite songs to sing along to!

Bar De Regenboog

Address: Van Welderenstraat 65, 6511 MD Nijmegen, Netherlands

Bar de Regenboog is the most upbeat of all the options on this list. This is a great place to party where everyone is included! If you like to dance, put this place at the top of your list.

Atelier. BAR ALL DAY

Address: Van der Brugghenstraat 14, 6511 SL Nijmegen, Netherlands

Atelier is a fancy little corner restaurant and bar. I recommend coming here when it is warm out, as the patio is truly unbeatable. The bar is also open all day…

Waalkade street pier in Nijmegen — Pier next to Waalkade street

Where to attend a concert in Nijmegen

Nijmegen’s student vibe brings loads of live music options. Below is a list of the best places to check out for the next big show!

Doornroosje

Address: Stationsplein 11, 6512 AB Nijmegen, Netherlands

Doornrooje is the nicest music venue in Nijmegen. It is located right next to the central train station, making commutes from neighboring cities easy. There are three stages during larger events. The bars in this venue are also quite nice. I recommend monitoring the Doornrooje website for their upcoming shows.

Merleyn

Address: Hertogstraat 13, 6511 RV Nijmegen, Netherlands

Merleyn is a smaller, more personal stage located deep in the city center. Keep in mind that the drinks at this location are slightly more expensive than others. Here, you can find smaller, local artists performing.

Waalhalla

Address: Winselingseweg 12, 6541 AK Nijmegen, Netherlands

Waalhalla is a public skatepark during the day but transforms into a hidden techno stage by night. Because it is a bit more secretive, finding events specific to this location can be difficult. Keep your eye out for a techno event at this location, as it is quite an experience. This location is also near De Vasim Nijmegen, another hidden techno building in the industrial part of the city.

Bloermerstraat in Nijmegen — Bloemerstraat in Nijmegen city center

How to rent a bike for the day

Renting a bike in Nijmegen is essential. Once you have money loaded on your OV-Chipkaart, you can grab a bike from the Nijmegen Central station. The bike station is a bit hidden from the station. Once you walk out of the main entrance of the station, cross the bike path and turn left. There will be a big staircase that takes you to an underground rental area. You can read more about the importance of an OV-Chipkaat with more practical information from my recent blog post.

Once you arrive in Nijmegen you will realize how essential a bike is. Much of the recommendations in this article are biking distance, and without a bike, it would take you all day to reach them. Just like every Dutch city, there are more bike lanes than car roads. Get a bike and explore this perfect city!

Barbarossa-ruine Roman ruins in Nijmegen — Barbarossa-ruine Roman ruins

How to explore Nijmegen on a budget

Nijmegen is a student city, so there are plenty of affordable options. Unfortunately, if you plan on staying the night in Nijmegen, accommodation is not very cheap and there are no hostel options. Plan to stay in a neighboring city, like Arnhem or Utrecht.

Rather than driving yourself crazy trying to find a cheap bar to drink at, just drop in any of them. The price of a 33dl beer in Nijmegen fluctuates very marginally from 2.50-3.20 EUR. If you want some cheap food, stay out of the city center. There are plenty of places to eat in the neighborhoods of Nijmegen that will not cost you too much.

Overall, the most budget-friendly activity you can do is rent a 3 EUR per day bike from the train station, grab some discounted beers from Aldi, and head for the beach or a park!

Conclusion

Nijmegen is an old city with a young vibe. The city has countless options of places to eat and parks to stroll in. The guide provided you with some insightful recommendations of my favorite places after living in the city. These lists provide a sneak peak of what the city truly has to offer. Nijmegen should be at the top of your list of must-see Dutch cities!

How to be a student in the Netherlands

Post author By seangeismann
Post date February 5, 2023
1 Comment on How to be a student in the Netherlands

Introduction

The Netherlands is a perfect country to live in as an international student. The Dutch population supports students and invites internationals to study and start careers in the country. In addition, the Dutch are some of the best non-native English speakers in the world. Not to mention you can get anywhere in the country with a bike!

This article will give you valuable recommendations you can consider when studying and living in the Netherlands on a budget. I will give you my personal experiences regarding topics like grocery shopping, transportation, and most importantly, budgeting.

Waalbrug bridge in Nijemegen, Netherlands — Sunset from Waalbrug in Nijmegen, Netherlands

Background

I studied for 6 months in Nijmegen from August to January. Maybe I am biased, but the Netherlands is the best place in the world to study short term. Many of the Universities in the country have a large international population and many of the courses are taught in English. I learned a lot through this experience, as I had to rethink how I approached everyday activities. The following sections will cover all the main major considerations when moving to the Netherlands.

Street art in Nijmegen, Netherlands — Downtown Nijmegen

Grocery shopping as a student

Grocery shopping in the Netherlands can be tricky depending on where you are from. There are three main stores in most Dutch cities: Albert Hein, COOP, and Aldi. Shopping for food in the Netherlands can get very pricy. As a student will limited funds, I recommend doing everything you can to find yourself an Aldi. Aldi is a discount grocery store with everything you need for a meal. This is also the only store that universally accepts all forms of card payment (Albert Hein and COOP do not).

It is also smart to get yourself a reliable tote bag, small backpack, or bike basket to take your groceries home. I found it very efficient to bring a tote bag, as it has just enough room (roughly) for about 2-3 days’ worth of groceries. Also if you are shopping at Aldi, much of the food is at discount so generally it should be consumed quickly after purchase…

Overall, DO NOT go to COOP or Albert Hein if you are trying to budget for a long-term stay in the Netherlands.

Check out a little trick for getting your groceries home safe in the image below…

Transportation in the Netherlands

The Netherlands is a very accessible country. There are two main options when getting around: take a bike or ride the train.

Always biking

Transportation is simple in the Netherlands: Get a bike! It is the best country in the world for biking. Even when driving through the countryside there are biking lanes. This should be your priority when you arrive for your studies.

Erasmus building bike parking in Radboud University — Bike parking in Erasmus Building on Radboud University campus

How to get a bike

If you are in the Netherlands for only a day or 2, get a daily rental bike from any large train station with your OV-Chipkaart. Simply pick a bike and scan your card. The card will track the number of days you have it and charge your account accordingly.

For a long-term rental, I recommend using Swapfiets. This is the largest bike rental company in the Netherlands with stores in most larger towns. You can download the app and schedule meetings instantly. They also offer a mobile service if your bike breaks down. The cheapest bikes range from 17-20 EUR per month. They also waive the contract fee if you rent a bike as a student. This is a good option for a 6-month (or less) stay.

If you are staying in the Netherlands for longer than 6 months, you should probably purchase a bike from a second-hand bike store, online, or steal one (joke). The best place to find a second-hand bike is on Marktplaats, a Dutch-specific second-hand website. You can always try Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace for other resources.

Biking into Germany from the Netherlands

General biking rules to know

In the Netherlands, there are always three different traffic lights, lanes, and rules for either bikers, drivers, or walkers. When on a bike, always remember to stay on the red-painted sidewalk that is usually located between the pedestrian walkway and the street. It is pivotal to remember lights for your bike (both back and front) and you will be fined without them! Also, at every pedestrian crossing, identified by white stripes and a blue sign, you must yield to the walker. You will also notice that helmets are not necessary for the Netherlands, and you will look goofy wearing one.

Taking trains in the Netherlands

Price of train tickets in the Netherlands

The first thing I should mention about the Trains in the Netherlands is that they are very expensive if you are not a Dutch citizen. For example, a one-way train ticket from Nijmegen (where I studied) to Amsterdam is 17 EUR for an hour-and-a-half journey. However, the prices of tickets get significantly cheaper when you increase the number of travelers. I recommend finding some pals to explore the Netherlands with! You can find more information about group ticket discounts.

Best journey planning apps

For planning your journey, download the NS app to guide you through the Netherlands. It is the best app for planning travel from city to city. Once you buy a train ticket, you can upload it in the app for ease of use when approaching the gate. If you are trying to navigate travel within a city, download the 9292 app. This will give you step-by-step information about bus routes, train times, and even scooter/bike rental.

OV-chipkaarts

OV-chipkaarts are a Dutch-specific travel payment method. Instead of going through the time to buy an individual train pass, you can simply scan the card when you enter a train and when you leave. It then automatically charges your account. You can either buy a personalized card (monthly subscription), an anonymous card, or a disposable card for single usage.

I recommend buying the Anonymous OV-chipkaart for anyone who is studying for the short term. It was only 5 EUR when I bought it. This way you can pre-load your travel account and save time (and money). The OV-chipkaart also allows you to rent a bike at any international train station or take local public transportation. Keep in mind that the gates do not allow you to enter if your card has a balance below 20 EUR. You can read more about the advantages of owning an Anonymous OV-chipkaart.

Overall: rent a bike from Swapfiets, order an OV-chipkaart, and travel to the Netherlands with some friends!

How to pay for things in the Netherlands

Using your card may be a struggle when coming to the Netherlands with a foreign bank account. In general, the Dutch have their own banking system and exchange system. They use a money exchange app, called iDeal, which you need a Dutch bank account for (like ABN Amro). Also, for all of the things you will need an IBAN- or an International Bank Account Number. Essentially, it is hard to determine where your credit card will work. The following sections will break this down bit by bit.

Opening a Dutch bank account

Many students consider opening an account when arriving. The best bank to open an account through is ABN Amro. They offer a free student package if you follow the following requirements: you have a BSN number, you have a registered address, and you are a student. Note that if you are an American student, you are required to make an appointment at a physical location. Also, these requirements are very easy once you are registered through your university, as they will likely do all of this for you. Once you have a Dutch bank account, download the iDeal app and load your bank details for easy payment everywhere you go.

Cash or no cash?

If you do not have a Dutch bank account, I recommend having enough cash on you at all times. Many stores will surprise you and deny your bank. Visa and Master Card/Maestro have the most issues because local businesses have to pay more to be able to accept these cards. ALWAYS be prepared with enough cash. However, if this happens at a bar, you may be out of luck because many bars do not accept cash either.

Where to withdraw money in the Netherlands

If you decide to open a Dutch bank account, you do not have to worry about the withdrawal fees of ATMs. However, with a foreign card, this is a different story. The number 1 rule is to STAY AWAY from EURONET ATMs that scatter Dutch cities. These are a rip-off by charging outrageous fees. Locate your bank’s ATM finder. I attached some links below based on your bank:

Mastercard ATM locator: ATM Near Me | Find the Nearest Mastercard, Maestro or Cirrus ATM

American Express ATM Locator: American Express ATM Locator

Discover ATM locator: ATM Locator | Discover Bank

Visa ATM locator: Global ATM Locator (visa.com)

What is it necessary?

I got away with living in the Netherlands for 6 months without opening an account. I would check your bank’s policy on exchange rates if you are traveling from outsize of the Eurozone, as this may affect your account significantly. The biggest obstacle with this decision was not being able to buy groceries from large stores like Albert Hein. It is honestly random when credit is accepted at grocery stores, so it is always smart to have sufficient cash in your wallet.

Necessary language skills

The Netherlands has one of the highest percentages of non-native English speakers in the world. This is obvious once you travel there. Even the older population can communicate in good English. With that being said, it is easy to fall into the norm of speaking English everywhere you go. I encourage you to learn simple phrases to appeal to the locals. Just because they can speak English doesn’t mean they want to! Keep this in mind and be polite by learning simple phrases.

Weather in the Netherlands

You have probably already heard that the Netherlands is not known for its beautiful weather. I want to start this off by saying this is not particularly true. In the summer months, it is generally drier and especially warm. The humidity in the air makes it feel even hotter. The sun almost always shines in the summer and fall. Note that many apartments you will rent as a student will not have air conditioning, but as a broke student, this better not be your deal breaker!

However, the winter months in the Netherlands are quite dark with little sunlight and short days. You will notice that it rains quite often, but never downpours. The rain in the winter is a constant drizzle. This means you can bike to the grocery store or a friend’s house without getting drenched by mother nature. Never let the rain convince you to stay inside for the day!!!

No matter the time of year, the weather in the Netherlands will feel a bit extreme due to the fact you are biking everywhere. Get yourself a nice rain jacket and you will be golden.

Where to buy things as a student

As a broke student in the Netherlands, it is important to scope out cheap places to gather goods before arriving (especially a bike). The Netherlands is full of overpriced stores, but I created a mini guide of places you should first walk through before making any big purchases.

Markplaats

Markplaats is an online resale platform that is Dutch-specific. Here, you can find anything you would normally do on Facebook Marketplace. It is loaded with discounted items. You will also notice that tons of items are listed as free. If you plan on selling anything on the platform, make sure to translate it into Dutch!

Action

Action is a large discount retailer with locations all over the Netherlands. If you need something immediately, go here. I often purchased cleaning supplies, cooking stuff, and school supplies.

Thrift Stores

Thrift stores pack the streets of the Netherlands. Many are clothing specific, but you can often find a good authentic all-inclusive store. Note that many of these stores are only on specific days. If you live in a big city in the Netherlands, check out the flea markets that are offered on the weekends where locals go and sell their stuff! The Dutch value second-hand items so you will find some quality items at a cheap cost.

Events in the Netherlands

The Dutch are known to the party, and they throw some amazing events! Every weekend there is a festival somewhere. It is important to keep up to date and follow certain Facebook groups that suit your needs.

Due to the high demand for events, it is important to note that many may sell out. When this does happen, I recommend finding tickets on the Dutch-specific platform TicketSwap. This is a verified ticket reseller that does not allow for price gauging. Essentially, it keeps popular events from getting too expensive due to greed.

TicketSwap is bustling when there is a popular event. It is best to download app on your mobile phone. You can set yourself notifications when a ticket appears but act quickly because it will be gone within seconds. When there is an event that you are considering attending but still has not sold out, wait a few days and buy the ticket second-hand off TicketSwap. It will be cheaper if the event never sells out.

Attending events in the Netherlands — Random concert in the Netherlands

Random advice:

Join ESN (Erasmus Student Network)

This is a student-organized club that hosts events and parties for international students. This is a very popular club in the Netherlands due to its heavy international student population. It is also open to all types of students whether a university student or an applied science student… everyone is included! The membership only costs 15 EUR. Read more about ESN and why you should join.

2. Join random international Facebook groups

The best way to feel at home away from home is to meet people from your home. Due to the large population of internationals in the Netherlands, it is easy to find a country-specific group on Facebook.

3. Get to know some Dutch folks

With a large international population, it is easy to stay in your little bubble. However, you did not travel to the Netherlands to only be around people you are comfortable with! You will soon find out that Dutch people are lovely and extremely friendly.

4. Try some cheap food at FEBO

FEBO is a vending machine-like corner fast food restaurant. You simply press a button, make a payment, and little door dispenses your 2 EUR croquet. It is perfect for a late night snack, but do not expect much.

5. Bike through some gorgeous Dutch parks

There are some beautiful parks and preserves in the Netherlands. All of them have perfect bike lanes throughout. Get out in the parks and explore! This is especially nice in the fall when the leaves are changing colors.

6. Visit a traditional Dutch bar

I recommend visiting a cozy Dutch bar. You can usually tell it’s a Dutch bar if it is sponsored by Amstel or Heineken and has a red backdrop to it. They are truly authentic to the area, so I recommend checking them out. Keep in mind that many Dutch bars only accept Dutch bank cards and sometimes do not even accept cash. Therefore it’s important to ask before ordering a beer!

7. Take frequent weekend trips

The Netherlands is centrally located and internationally connected. Take advantage of this by visiting other countries and cultures during your stay. You are also probably less than 2 hours away from any Dutch city, making day trips a must. You can follow my guide in a separate article on the best cities to visit for a day trip (coming soon).

Vrijthof Square in Maastricht, Netherlands — Vrijthof Square in Maastricht

Conclusion

The Netherlands is a country full of things to do. After reading this guide, you now know how to grocery shop, pay for things, rent a bike, and get on a train in the Netherlands! The county is extremely easy to navigate when you download 9292 and the NS scheduler. It is also easy to attend various events through the TicketSwap app. Overall, I wish you the best of luck on your journey to the Netherlands!

What to do in Sintra, Portugal

Post author By seangeismann
Post date January 13, 2023
2 Comments on What to do in Sintra, Portugal

Garden view of Moorish Castle from Biester Palace in Sintra — Biester Palace garden view facing Moorish Castle

Background

Sintra is a unique town with loads of history with various influences. The most famous aspect of Sintra is Pena Palace. This palace was rejuvenated in the 1800s, ultimately setting the stage for the rest of the town. Sintra was the summer destination for many wealthy people. They were attracted to this location because the clouds that surround the city protected their skin from the sun.

Sintra is just a 35-minute train ride from Lisbon making it an ideal day trip. However, after reading this article you will soon realize that you simply cannot see everything in one day.

Our experience

I went to Sintra for an afternoon with my family. We decided to participate in a Tuk-Tuk tour. I will explain what to expect in a Tuk-Tuk tour and whom to go to when seeking the service later in this article. If you seek to understand this historically relevant area, I recommend a tour. There is truly so much to learn about this area and how historical power completely reshaped the physical landscape of Sintra.

After our tour, we went to the city center to eat an early dinner. I recommend grabbing something to eat along the street of Rua Cons Segurado. It is a quaint little center with a good atmosphere. You will also be towered by the Castelo dos Mouros which sits on the hill overlooking the city. The city center is a short 10-minute walk from the train station.

Places to visit

Fonte da Sabuga (water fountain)

The Fonte da Sabuga is a necessary stop when visiting Sintra. It has historical relevance because when the earthquake of 1755 devastated Portugal, the water from this fountain never stopped running. The granite stone that Sintra sits on creates a natural filtration system, making the water fresh. It is said that if you have diarrhea, the fountain water will immediately cure it. Another myth states that if you drink the water of the Fonta a Sabuga, you will have the spirit of Sintra in your soul.

Casa dos Penedos and Viewpoint

This is not an official viewpoint but is noticeable because it overlooks the city and the National Palace of Sintra. From this view, you can see how each period in history affected the way Sintra looks today. Note that there are plenty of viewpoints throughout the hills of Sintra, so do not spend too much time seeking out this specific place.

Viewpoint of the National Palace of Sintra

Castelo dos Mouros (Moorish castle)

This is an astounding structure that sits on top of a hill overlooking the city of Sintra. You can also see Pena Palace from the castle (on a clear day). It was built in the 8^th century to enable the Moors to establish strategic importance over Lisbon and the surrounding area. The walls are intact, and you can visit this destination on the hill for only about $8. If you are seeking adventure in Sintra, this should be at the top of your list!

View of Castelo dos Mouros from Biester Palace

Go tree hunting (if you’re into that)

Sintra’s forests are unlike anywhere else. Originally, much of the area was not heavily forested. It was not until King Ferdinand II decided to sprinkle his personal touch by planting numerous non-native tree species. Now, there are more than 2,000 species of trees in the forest. Sintra’s forests are also scattered with the famous cork tree that Portugal is proud to call their own. The famous kiwi Silver Fern can also be spotted through the forest, as the king had a particular liking towards them. Whether you are familiar with tree types or not, you will find the Sintra forest a unique place based on its various vegetation.

Visit the Pena Palace

Visiting the Pena Palace will be key to your Sintra experience. The price to visit the palace is only $15 and should be purchased online. The palace was built based on the Romantic style of the period. The property was completely reshaped in 1847 when Kind Ferdinand gifted Queen Maria II the property. The king believed in “love at first sight” so the gardens and infrastructure reflect this.

The garden and pond that you will notice at the entrance of the palace is a gorgeous and lush hidden gem. You will notice on tiny, Moorish-style structure in the middle of the pond. This is known as the house of the dead.

Walk around the Tivoli Palacio de Seteais

The Tivoli Palacio de Seteais is a 5-star hotel and one of the nicest in the country. If you are not a guest, you will not be able to check it out. You can, however, walk around the garden and check out the view it offers from the back. The open grass area in the front also offers a fantastic opportunity to take some pictures.

Look out at Mirador de Seteais

Exact location: (38.7969964, -9.3998340)

The Mirador de Seteais is the best and most accessible viewpoint in the town. It sits right beside the Tivoli Palacio de Seteais. It is not well-labeled on Google or Apple maps, so I recommend following the coordinates provided above. This is a unique spot because you can stand at the end of the patio and take a picture of the Pena Palace peaking inside the arch of the structure of the building. We, unfortunately, did not get this picture due to the seasonal fog, but this is a must-see on a clear day!

Mirador de Seteais arch Facing Pena Palace

Explore the Quinta da Regaleira

The Quinta da Regaleira is another fascinating castle that you can also tour. Although it may seem like the oldest building of them all, it is the most recent with construction concluding in 1903. It blends Gothic and Manueline styles in its gorgeous architecture. It is the old headquarters for the Freemason fraternal organization. There is a massive spiral staircase inside known as the Well of Initiation. When you purchase access to the castle, you are granted access to the well. There is a staircase that takes you to the bottom that leads to other caves that you can explore. This is a cool opportunity for adventurers! Tickets cost about $12 and should be purchased online.

Visit the Biester Palace

The Biester Palace is a stunning home with intricate architectural designs. When you go inside you can grasp the appreciation the Biester family had for art. The best rooms to pay attention to are the library, the prayer room, and the bedroom. It was also one of the first homes in the world to have a functioning elevator. Tickets are about $10, but vary based on your group size. as always, it is more efficient to purchase them in advance online.

Our tour guide

If this article has inspired you to learn more about Sintra, I recommend a tour. Most all tours in Sintra take place in a Tuk-tuk. This is the most efficient way, as all the attractions are scattered through the hills and take a long time to walk to.

I recommend taking a tour with Daniel Ponce of youdeservetours.com. If he is not available the day you want to go, reschedule your journey to make sure you use his service. Daniel is knowledgeable and entertaining. He will take you on his tuk-tuk and show you all the significant spots throughout Sintra. Be sure to book the longer option because you will soon realize that 1 hour is not enough. He also will pick you up directly from the train station. If you book directly from his website, he offers a discount.

How to get to Sintra

Train to Sintra

A one-way train ticket will only cost you about $3. You can reach Sintra from either Rossio Station or from Oriente Station. You can find more information about tickets and pricing.

Drive to Sintra

If you have a car with you, it is smart to park it somewhere and then walk everywhere in the town. The streets will get very crowded with Tuk-tuk tours, and there are limited places to park at each destination. Below is a list of addresses with free parking:

R. Cidade de Lagos, 2725-079 Algueirão-Mem Martins, Portugal
2710-579 Sintra, Portugal
Azinhaga Sardinha 5, 2710-631 Sintra, Portugal

How to travel to Sintra on a budget

Sintra is loaded with plenty of things to do. If you are going on a budget, I would plan on paying at least one entrance fee. You will be able to get the most value if you chose to go to the Pena Palace, as it has the most influence of all the sites. The best free things to do in Sintra are to explore nature and the viewpoints.

There are also many viewpoints which you can hike to. The best hiking trail in the town is the Caminho de Santa Maria. This is a trail that takes you past the highest points at the Castelo dos Mouros and Pena Palace. Even if you are on a budget, I would still recommend a Tuk-tuk tour from Daniel. It is a budget-friendly option to learn about many aspects of the town. Whether you spend money or not, you can take in the beauty of the surrounding area and the vast Sintra park.

Conclusion

Sintra is a destination for history and nature lovers. It is one of those locations that is nice inherently, but even more so when you take the time to learn about it. Sintra can be thoroughly explored in 2 full days. If you plan on seeing about 2-3 attractions, a day trip to Sintra would serve you well. I recommend visiting Sintra with an open mind and enthusiasm. It is smart to follow this guide for a taste of what is to come. When visiting Sintra, I recommend checking out Obidos, a beautiful cattle town located close to Sintra.

Sintra visual guide

What to do in Obidos, Portugal

Post author By seangeismann
Post date January 4, 2023

Old Obidos town from the top of the Moorish walls — Overlook on top of the Obidos walls

Obidos- an old city that blends history with current life. Explore inside, outside, and on the walls of this perfectly preserved attraction.

What is Obidos?

Obidos is an unbelievably well-preserved fortress located in the Estremadura providence in central-western Portugal. The walled city has influence from the Celts, Romans, and Moors to name a few. In the 700s the Moors fortified the city with walls that still stand today. The walls are almost untouched by age. The city is a perfect view of the past while living in the present. This is the perfect place to have an action-packed day of exploring, eating, and learning about this tiny town in the Portuguese hills.

Background of our Trip

I went with my family on a day trip to this mystical mini-castle town. It is a unique experience because I felt like I was in a movie. We saw the castle on a hill right off the highway… it got us excited. This is a perfect location for a day trip if you are staying in Lisbon or the surrounding area.

Obidos also has a notable number of places to stay for the night for those who want to take their time exploring inside the walls. We visited over Christmas time, so the town was decorated with lights. It also featured an ice-skating rink and a Christmas village. If you want a cute and quaint village for Christmas, I recommend keeping Obidos at the top of your list. This article will explain how we spent our day in Obidos, plus more for those who want to spend more time here!

Overlooking the village at the top of the wall

Recommended things to do

Hike the Obidos walls

I am starting this list off with the most memorable part. These walls make the town what it is today. You can (almost) walk the entire length of the town. For those who are afraid of heights, I do not recommend this activity. The walls are high and if you are not careful, you will fall. For the best views, walk to the far south wall where you can climb the fortress. This is where the best picture spot is!

Cruise the Rua da Direita

Rua da Direita is the main street in Obidos. It is packed with all the traditional shops and restaurants. The cool thing about this street is that it is the only packed street in the town! You can completely avoid crowds if you do not walk down this street. However, to get a nice feel of the town this activity is a must.

Drink Ginjinha shots

Ginjinha is a cherry chocolate liqueur. They are often served with a cinnamon stick or an infused cherry. Many vendors along the Rua da Direita serve this tasty treat. In fact, it will be the first thing you will see when going through the main entrance of the city. Therefore, I recommend walking a bit before purchasing this treat because you can save up to 1 EUR per shot!

Ginjinha shots with chocolate cup and cherry

Visit the Municipal Museums of Obidos

We, unfortunately, did not have time to visit the museum, but I highly recommend it! This city is rich in culture and history. The best thing you can do is read about it through an exhibit. Learn more about the Obidos Museums!

Eat at JamonJamon Tapas

This is a beautiful, tiny restaurant that sits right outside the walls of the town. The menu mixes traditional Portuguese food with a Spanish tapa twist. We ate here for a late lunch and could not have been happier. It was the best meal we had in all of Portugal. We recommend ordering the pork cheeks, Peihihos da Horta, and shrimps “A Guilho.” Make sure to have a reservation, as this seems to be a popular destination. Call +351964789306 to make a reservation!

Check out the Porta da Vila

This is one of the brilliantly tiled prayer corners. If you see this during Christmas time, there is usually an artist playing an instrument. This is the first thing you will see when you enter through the main entrance from the parking lot.

Walk under the Aqueduto de Usseira

This aqueduct stretches far from the town. You will not miss it as it is situated right along the parking lot.

Swing on the Baloico Obidos

This swing sits on top of a hill in the northeastern corner of the town. You will see it if you are walking up the stairs of the town walls. It is a cute, picturesque spot to take a break from all the hills and stairs.

How to get to Obidos

Drive to Obidos

As it is with the rest of the country, traveling by car is the most efficient means of transportation. There is a large (free) parking lot right outside of the walls that rarely fill. Just follow the signs when you exit off the highway.

Take the train to Obidos

If you are staying in Lisbon, taking the train is a stress-free way of getting to Obidos. It will take you about 2.5 hours and only 8 EUR for a one-way journey.

Traveling to Obidos on a Budget

Obidos is not an expensive destination. If you want to spend the night here, you can find a hostel for as cheap as 28 EUR per night. Getting to the town is also almost free. The one thing I would omit from this list if you were budget traveling is lunch at JamonJamon. It is not overpriced but is still not the cheapest option. The best things to do in Obidos are to stroll through town and walk along the walls. These are both free activities. It is very possible to visit this destination on a tight budget.

Conclusion

Obidos is as entertaining as it is old. If you are looking for an authentic Portuguese experience mixed with a rich history lesson, visit Obidos. If you follow all the recommendations listed above, then you are about to have an amazing experience.

Introduction

Things to do in Edinburgh on a Budget

Hike up to Arthur’s Chair

Walk the famous Royal Mile

Check out the Sottish National Museum

Gaze at historical artwork in the Scottish National Gallery

Dive into local culture at the Museum of Edinburgh

Visit some famous monuments with a view atop of Calton Hill

Take a day trip to either Falkirk or Stirling

Falkirk

Stirling

Take a train to Glasgow

How to visit Edinburgh on a budget

Accommodation

Breakfast and lunch

Public transport

Attractions

Conclusion

More from Scotland…

Introduction

Things to do in Glasgow on a Budget

Check out the Kelvingrove art exhibit

Walk around the University of Glasgow

Visit the Hunterian Museum at the University

Wander around the Glasgow Cathedral

Explore the Glasgow Necropolis

Stroll down the city center mural trail

Window shop at the electric Buchanan Street

Get cozy at one of Glasgow’s countless pubs

Take the train to Stirling Castle for the day

Spend a day in Edinburgh

Random tips on saving money in Glasgow

Conclusion

More from Europe…

Introduction

A Brief History Lesson of Strasbourg

Things to do in Strasbourg on a Budget

Check out the La Maison des Tanneurs (House of Tanners)

Walk along Ponts Couverts de Strasbourg (Vauban Dam)

Ponder the newly constructed Gare de Strasbourg

Sit down at Gutenburg Square

Gaze at Maison Kammerzel

Feel the vibes at La Place du Marche Gayot

Take a cheap boat tour in Strasbourg

Eat Flammkuchen at Le Gruber

Visit the Cathedral of Strasbourg.

Have a drink near the river

Check out Le parc de l’orangerie and the EU neighborhood

How to Visit Strasbourg in 1 Day

Conclusion

More from Europe…

Introduction

Brief history lesson of Dinant

Where is Dinant?

How to get from Brussels to Dinant

My trip to Dinant

What to do in Dinant

Tour Leffe Maison

Explore Grotte de Dinant la Merveilleuse caves

Walk over the Pont Charles de Gaulle

Gaze at Collégiale Notre-Dame de Dinant

explore the old ruins of the Castle of Crevecoeur

Hike up to Citadelle de Dinant

Conclusion

More from Europe…

Introduction

How expensive is the Hague?

Experience traveling to the Hague

How to get around the Hague

Budget-friendly activities in the Hague

Cruise the Scheveningen Noorderstrand

Explore the Scheveningen Pier – climb spiral stairs.

Gaze at the beautiful De Ridderzaal

Learn some Dutch history at the Historical Museum of the Hague

Visiting the Hague on a budget

Conclusion

Read more from the Netherlands…

Introduction

Our trip to Rome on a Budget

Recommended things to do in Rome on a budget