Holidays can be expensive – a luxury we can only enjoy if we’ve saved up. But while flights, accommodation and travel are all unavoidable holiday costs, there are plenty of things you can do on holiday that are completely free. Here are a few tips to get you started.
Take yourself on a walking tour
Guided tours are expensive, so why not test out your map reading skills on your own walking tour? As well as not costing a penny, you can create your own route and you can stop whenever you like, for as long as you like!
Find a park
From the local playground to a National Park, green spaces are usually free to visit and offer a place to relax, have a picnic or do some gentle exercise. Botanic Gardens are particularly good for an escape from a bustling city centre.
Head to the beach
Beaches offer something for everyone. If you need a break, have a nap on your beach towel, or if you like sports, take a football or volleyball. Kids can spend hours building sandcastles and paddling in the sea, and the only thing you’re going to pay for is an ice cream.
Go to the Visitor Centre
This activity is free in itself, but it’s also a great chance to find out about more free things to do in the area, with friendly staff members on hand to answer all your questions.
Visit a market
Markets are a feast for the senses, vibrant and lively with lots of interesting things for sale, from local produce to vintage clothing. Even if you don’t buy anything, visiting a market is a great way to experience a city.
Museums and galleries
Lots of museums and art galleries are free to enter, especially the bigger, national museums. Even if there is an admission charge, it’s worth going on their website to find out if they offer free entry on a particular day of the week.
Go to the library
Some public libraries are housed in beautiful historic buildings, offering somewhere to sit, read a book and take some time out from your holiday schedule.
Window shop in an affluent area
You know a place is expensive if you can’t see any prices displayed. Wander around the upmarket part of town and try to work out how much everything costs – but probably best not to go inside the shops!
Get up for the sunrise or watch the sunset
The sky is different wherever you go, and watching the sunset or sunrise can often become the highlight of your holiday. Find a good viewpoint – beaches, hills or balconies are good – and let nature put on a free show.
For more tips and holiday advice, chat to the experts at Holidays2Canada.