Hi, I'm 19 and will be traveling for 39 days. On march 15,2012 (fly from school in Manchester) land in Frankfurt or as close as possible to castle region in Germany, sometime before the 22 arrive in eschwege and stay with friend for the next week, after that spend time in Prague, Vienna, and budapest. Making my way south. Then to Italy hitting the big three(Rome, Venice, Florence) and visiting friends in bologna area. Make my way back up to Munich on the day my 31 day global pass would expire ( if I keep that plan) and fly to Istanbul for about a week then back to Munich where I buy a railpass to schladming Austria where I will spend the spring semester. My budget is about $2500-3000, I am totally prepared to see europe "through the gutter" instead of "through the back door" but i could really use some extra help deciding the cheapest way to travel, Thanks!
Posted by
Chicago/Rural WI
811 posts
For some of the routing, you may find the bus is a cheaper (or the cheapest) way to travel. Here are a couple of companies to check out (particularly for travel between Prague/Vienna/Budapest): www.Orangeways.com www.StudentAgencyBus.com I've used both companies, and was very pleased with their services. However, if you are tall the train would be more comfortable for the long-haul journeys. Also, bus travel will be more susceptible to traffic/weather delays, which is worth noting if you HAVE to be to a city by a certain time. Lastly, some rail tickets can be purchased at a discount if buying them in advance (usually around 90 days), but I'll let the rail experts fill you in about that. Oh, and lastly-lastly (really), I'd encourage you to save, save, and save as much as you can for your trip. Even at the top end, $3000 is going to be a tight squeeze for a 39 day trip with so much moving around - even through the gutter. :)
Posted by
OP
Madison, USA
37 posts
Ok thanks! I am a taller guy so I will have to check into that, and I will be staying w a friend for about a week where I won't be spending nearly as much, but yes I'm working 40+ hours a week and trying to save as much as possible :) the problem is needing the money for tuition, so I will have extra money, I just don't want to spend it if at all possible.