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How many hidden gems are left in the world? Even AI doesn’t know.
As travel has soared to new heights, more and more hidden gems are being discovered from right here in the U.S. of A all the way to far-flung Asia.
Smack dab in between is Europe, where cobbled streets, astounding nature, and historical architecture oozing charm and character are calling your name.
One such European country is Poland, best known for Warsaw, the impressive capital city rebuilt from scratch after World War II.
Besides this underrated city, the average Joe or Jane may not be able to name another Polish destination.
Especially with a tongue-twisting name like Bydgoszcz, a cheap getaway with canals just as pretty as Amsterdam, if not more.
Those seeking quintessential Europe on a budget, look no further!
Yet Another Amsterdam Alternative
You probably get it by now – there are many places in Europe with scenic canals.
Of course, Amsterdam trumps them all, or so that’s what you’re led to believe.
Unless you’ve been too busy binge-watching one of the seemingly hundreds of apps on your smart TV lately, then you probably know how Amsterdam has transformed, asking tourists not to visit in some cases.
That alone might deter many travelers who want to tick the iconic city off their travel wishlist.
While Bruges, Utrecht, and others have been named as alternatives, Bydgoszcz flies well under the radar and would love to have you!
This Polish city is not alone, however, as Gdansk makes for a great alternative too.
So why Bydgoszcz over Gdansk?
One Of Europe’s Cheapest Cities
Let’s consider the big picture—you won’t hop aboard a long-haul flight just to spend a day in Europe.
If you do, be prepared for a hassle at customs, to say the least, as this is the ultimate red flag.
That said, Europeans know their continent well, so it shouldn’t be taken lightly when a city is labeled the cheapest.
That’s the case for Bydgoszcz, which is being hyped as the cheapest day trip in Europe. Sorry, Gdansk!
And as pretty as this unknown city is, you’ll surely want to stay longer.
Bydgoszcz can be reached easily by bus from both Gdansk and Warsaw in under three hours, with Gdansk being the closest gateway.
Otherwise, travelers can connect from major hubs such as London (STN and LTN) with flights as low as $29 on Ryanair!
Upon arriving, expect more of the same savings with very affordable hotels like the top rated 4-star palatial Hotel Słoneczny Młyn as low as $65 in August.
Although it’s a relatively small city, the best way to get around is by public tram. With rides costing only about $0.70 per ride, it’s well worth it!
Better yet, opt for the scenic route by taking a water tram across the lovely Brda River for just 50 cents more.
And the more you save, the more you can risk buying a vowel for this city since that seems to be a recurring issue.
Tip: Bydgoszcz is pronounced By-dgo-shch. Yeah, it’s a tough one!
More Than A Sausage Fest
Poland may not be a mainstream foodie destination, but if there’s one claim to fame, it’s the country’s phenomenal sausages.
Okay, okay, pierogis might have something to say about that, but that’s the point.
Poland is a very underrated place to indulge in local cuisine as the beer and wine scene is top notch as well.
All more affordable than a coffee back home, Bydgoszcz is perfect to dig into traditional eats while still being able to explore on a budget.
Factoring in cheap busses, flights, trams, hotels, food, what else is there? Ah that’s right, it’s time to stick it to Amsterdam!
Visitors willing to give this unpronounceable city a chance will love taking a private boat ride along the canal for about $6 per ticket.
This beautiful route offers unmatched views of bustling Old Town and Mill Island, a revamped district lined with pretty parks, museums, restaurants, and, yes, even a beach to lounge in the summer months!
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.