By Nicky Gardner and Susanne Kries— The big rail news in Europe this past week has been the successful launch of a new direct train service from Moscow to Nice, restoring a link between the Russian capital and the French Riviera that has not operated since before the First World War. Routed via Minsk, Warsaw, » Read more

The hills may be alive with The Sound of Music in Salzburg, but there’s plenty to do that doesn’t involve Mozart and the Von Trapp family. For a trip down the less-touristy path, follow our tips on the best cheap (and free) activities in this stately Austrian city. Toy Museum Bürgerspitalgasse 2 Tel.: +43-662-62 08 » Read more

There are some occasions on trips through Europe when you just know that a car is essential, but with European fuel prices through the roof, and automobile rental companies sometimes levying draconian one-way drop charges (especially for international journeys), many folks are naturally wary about opting for a vehicle. European car trains can, however, play » Read more

Most folk have definite views about zoos, and any mention inevitably brings out a string of arguments for and against the incarceration of animals. But there are other reasons for going to zoos beyond watching wild cats, apes and okapi. Zoos are great spots for people watching and, for anyone with even only a passing » Read more

June 30, 2010. As we have said before, it is not compulsory to take the fast train. On most routes through Europe, there are plenty of slow train alternatives, often more scenic and sometimes much cheaper. A great weekend bargain in Germany On the weekends, for example, travelers can roam the length and breadth of » Read more

If you have followed our posts here on EuroCheapo over the last three years, then you’ll certainly know that we are not really urban creatures. True, we have spent many happy months exploring European cities, often those that are lesser known, and we have written about many of them—Roskilde, Poznan and Trieste, for example. Europe’s » Read more

Perhaps due to its lively student population, Vienna is rife with inexpensive eating options. In addition to the ubiquitous Döner Kebab, you’ll find cheap pizza, traditional Austrian food and more than a few vegetarian options. Our five cheap picks run the gamut from cozy pub grub to pay-what-you-wish Pakistani fare. 1. Esterházykeller Naglergasse 9 Neighborhood: » Read more

Innsbruck, Austria is a winter and summer destination for mountain lovers from all over. To take advantage of this alpine gem without burning a hole in your wallet, here are some suggestions for ultimate fun for the winter and summer. Sports Summer: Hiking is the ultimate summer sport in the Tirol valley. It’s cheap, healthy, » Read more

Some arrivals are just too good to miss. Dropping down out of the skies to land at some of Europe’s trickier airports can be challenging for even the most experienced pilots. And, even from the passenger cabin, the steep glide down into the airstrips at Innsbruck (Austria) or Lugano (Switzerland) can be very impressive. Funchal » Read more