Czech Republic

Although the Czech Republic is no longer as cheap as it once was, you can still get great deals if you travel outside of Prague, the country's capital. This is particularly true in the wintertime (except for the second half of December, as the weeks around Christmastime are prime tourist season). The most affordable months are January and February; but, March through May also has some excellent deals on travel and lodging.

It may be helpful to get a map and explore Prague on your own because most of the city's top sights are free but also included in many paid tours. This includes strolling across Charles Bridge, pausing by the Astronomical Clock, and exploring the medieval structures and cobblestone streets of Old Town Square. Other popular tourist locations across the nation, such as the fairy-tale town of Cesky Krumlov, the unusual town of Sedlec and its ossuary chapel, and the endless trails and mountains in Bohemian Switzerland National Park, offer far more affordable prices. If you book far enough in advance, the hotels at these locations will be reasonably priced even during the high season.