So you're headed to Germany, and you want to make every Euro count? The key to a great German experience is choosing the best cities and activities to get the most bang for your buck. Let's explore my top three destinations for an amazing trip on a budget!

Trier

^{Porta Nigra}

Your airplane will likely land in Frankfurt, home to the largest airport in Germany. I suggest you hop on one of the many buses departing the airport for our first stop, Trier! There are numerous, low-cost bus lines throughout Germany, but Mein Fernbus is highly rated for cost, comfort and reliability. A one-way ticket from Frankfurt Airport to the heart of downtown Trier can be purchased for only 13 Euro.

Trier is the perfect place to start your adventures in Germany. The city is full of rich history, including many Roman ruins. Trier is smaller than many major German cities, and completely navigable on foot or by bicycle. The beautiful Moselle River runs through the heart of Trier, and is lined with charming cafes and food vendors. For a cheap meal, purchase a bratwurst and have a picnic on the riverbank!

The hands-down, best accommodations for young travelers in Trier is the Jugendgästehaus - Kolpinghaus Warsberger Hof. While the name of this hostel is quite a mouthful, the guest rooms are simple and lovely. The Kolpinghaus is just steps from the main pedestrian square of downtown Trier, and beds start at 25 Euro per night, including a delicious breakfast.

Before you leave Trier, you will want to visit some of the antiquities left behind by the Ancient Romans, who founded the city. The great news is that many of these sights are free and open to the public. Stop by the famous Porta Nigra (Black Gate), or stroll across the old Roman Bridge that has survived two world wars intact! On a nice day, enjoy the beautiful gardens of the Old Palace, and discover the archaeology museum just beyond the park. Students can enter the museum for only 6 Euro!

Berlin

It's hard to say "Aufwiedersehen" to the charming city of Trier, but a whole new adventure awaits you in the capital city, Berlin! The trip from Trier to Berlin will take about a day whether you choose bus or train. The train fares will be a bit more costly, but you will probably be more comfortable. Check the Deutsche Bahn website for recent deals and discounts to get the cheapest ticket possible.

When it comes to great student accommodations, Berlin is full of choices. Expect to find rates anywhere between 12 and 32 Euros per night, depending on amenities, dorm size and location. Some student favorites include the BaxPax Mitte Hostel, known for its trendy location and genial atmosphere, and the Eastern Comfort HostelBoat, which is an actual boat docked on the river in the center of the city!

Another great thing about Berlin is the amazing transit system within the city. Look for the blue signs with a white letter U for the underground trains, or U-Bahn. The S-Bahn is the above-ground network of street cars. Both are quick and cheap ways to get almost anywhere in Berlin, just don't forget to stamp your fare card at one of the kiosks before hopping on!

Sometimes the best things in life really are free, and this is true of the arts in Berlin. Street performers and public art abound in the city, and instead of paying for entrance to a museum, visit the astounding section of the Berlin Wall called the East Side Gallery. Stroll along the riverside and take in the many gorgeous and historic paintings that decorate this monument to freedom. Pick your favorite, take selfies and even add your own doodle to the iconic structure! After a long day of culture, stop at Berlin favorite Die Henne to fill up on the hearty fare. This quaint pub serves only one dish: a half chicken baked to perfection with a hearty roll and slaw, all for only Eight Euro Fifty.

Munich

You could spend weeks just exploring Berlin, but it's time to get a taste of Southern German culture in the Alps. Let's go to Munich! Once again, your cheapest option for travel is going by bus, but if you'd rather save time to explore, there are cost-effective air travel options that will get you there in just over an hour. Check out smaller European airlines like Transavia for the cheapest tickets, but watch out for hidden luggage fees! Pro-tip: If your travel time is flexible, search for last minute tickets, you can save up to 75 percent off normal fares.

Because Munich is a top tourist destination for Germans as well as international travelers, sleeping accommodations are going to be a little more expensive than in other cities. However, there are still good options if you can be flexible about location or amenities. An overall favorite for young travelers is the adorably named Wombat's City Hostel, where you will find all of the comforts of home, just outside the city center. Another option for the outdoorsy types is The Tent. This hostel provides sleeping areas in one large tent, or you can bring your own and camp! It's definitely the cheapest option in Munich, but not for the faint of heart.

With all of the festivals and beer halls in Munich, you may not spend much time in your hostel anyway! Steer clear of the tourist traps, and head for places off the beaten track like the Augustiner Braustuben, where the food is cheap and the beer flows freely. Before heading home, don't miss a visit to the Viktualienmarkt, Munich's market square, where you can pick up souvenirs for all of your buds at home!

Each city has a uniquely regional German flavor you won't want to miss. Enjoy your travels and don't forget to protect your trip with travel insurance from Allianz Global Assistance!

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