I am traveling to Europe in just a few weeks and trying to figure out how much money to take. I am traveling with a friend and our trip includes 2 nights in Rome, 7 nights on a cruise ship with ports in (La Spezia, Portofino, Monte Carlo & St. Tropez) followed by 2 nights after the cruise in Barcelona. We will be getting off the ship daily and visiting the cities that are accessible from the ports (Pisa, Florence, Portofino, possibly Nice & or Cannes). I am trying not to do the pre-planned shore excursions as much as possible, because I don't want the "canned" touristy experience...but I still have no idea what to budget for this trip. 12 days total...most meals and all housing is already paid for. I am thinking $125 USD per day...but not having been to these countries before I am just not sure. Thoughts?
Posted by
Cary, NC
687 posts
Do you mean you are thinking of taking actual dollars? All those places use euros, and have ATMs.
Posted by
LaGrange, Ga, USA
1178 posts
With the hotels and meals having been provided for, I think the $125 per day will be sufficient in Barcelona. That allows for transportation from the port, admission fees, and some for any incidentals you might have.
Posted by
Portland, Oregon, usa
34 posts
figure how much you would spend sightseeing around Seattle and add about $25/day....if you like to shop, take more...things there cost just a little more. Besides you're hitting the touristy places that jack up the prices.. just like they do in Seattle!
Posted by
Gettysburg, PA
1589 posts
Angie, this is too broad. One excursion might be more than $125.00 or might be free.
Posted by
Chicago
2876 posts
I agree with HJ. $125 is about 90 euros. With most of your meals & housing already covered, I think you'll be fine. But bring a credit card too, just in case you run across something expensive that you want to buy.
Posted by
OP
Seattle, WA, USA
10 posts
Thank you all. I am budgeting $125 USD daily...but will be converting to Euro's before I go.
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23282 posts
You best bet for local currency is a debit card at an ATM but don't bring a lot from the US.
Posted by
Cincinnati
76 posts
Unless you know of a good deal for Euros (in that case, please let me know!), you are going to pay a hefty surcharge to buy Euros before you leave. Use your ATM card at any ATM upon arrival and you will save money.
Posted by
Oak Park, Illinois
4535 posts
Do NOT buy that many Euros before leaving. You get a worse rate than withdrawing cash from ATM's. And if the exchange rate goes down you'll lose even more money. And you might exchange more than you need, leaving you to re-exchange when you return and losing even more money. Buy about $100-200 before you go so you have some cash on hand. Then just use ATM's like you would at home as you find you need cash. And for most purchases, use your credit cards (Capital One has no foreign transaction fees).
Posted by
OP
Seattle, WA, USA
10 posts
Thank you all for the advice! I appreciate your help.
Posted by
Seattle, WA, USA
1068 posts
I live in Seattle, too, and I can vouch for the fact that France, at least, is WAAAAAAAAAAAAAY more expensive than Seattle. I always try and keep hubby and I to 100 Euros a day in France, and we almost always go over. And I am FRUGAL, and can make a 20 Euro note scream for mercy as I stretch it. Our last trip was in December of last year, so I am speaking from very recent experience. Almost everything is - if only a little - more expensive than the States - bus trips, museum entry, a Coke, a sandwich or crepe on the sidewalk, entry to a restroom, a beer (!!!!!!). Plan higher, and be happy when you come in under budget, is my motto.