Budget Travel Ideas in Trier

The common assumption that Germany is an expensive place to travel and not ideal for those on a budget is actually a misconception, especially when one pays (no pun intended) a visit to Trier, a centrally-located town from most all major cities. Germany has an excellent bus and rail system, and travelers coming in from Frankfurt, Bonn or Cologne can easily hop on inexpensive public transportation and get to Trier in a matter of hours. Furthermore, the Mosell River snakes along the edge of town and also provides excellent, very cheap boat day tours around the town. In addition to local museums and boat trips, World 66 has researched dozens of sights and activities with free or very cheap admission to find the best for you. 

Geburtshaus von Karl Marx

The famous communist philosopher, Karl Marx, was born here in 1818 and spent his childhood in this majestic house, It features hundreds of items from Marx’s youth, in addition to garments, objects and artwork from his parents and grandparents’ time. You can browse the early journals and first editions of his work, wander through bedrooms with exhibits and old photographs or just chat with one of the tour guides to get an insider view of Marx’s intellectual life. You’ll be the envy of all the philosophy and history professors back home! Admission is free and the house is open most weekdays and weekends for guided tours. Donations are welcome.

Trier Imperial Bath House

The bathhouses of Trier, constructed in about 300 AD, are worth visiting if only to partake in a luxurious, cheap massage by one of the trained guides, reminiscent of the early days. You can also wander for hours and inspect the ancient Roman architecture of the Imperial Bathhouse, some of which is crumbling. It expands more than 900 feet in either direction. The different bathhouse rooms feature historical remnants, stories, photos and art, but tourists often find the journey from room to room equally captivating. The hallways are narrow, the stairways are creaky and the ambience is mysterious.

The Roscheider Hof

The Roscheider Hof is an open air ethnological museum featuring more than 400 folklore exhibits, and recently a new wing of the museum was built to display forestry and wood of the Trier region. You can also wander through the rose garden, plant garden and enjoy beer… in the beer garden. Children visiting the Roschieder Hof will enjoy the playground and museum restaurant. Guided tours available for children and adults. Admission is free and the museum is open daily.

Finally, if you’re hungry, head over to 39 Neustrasse Street for Sushi Trier, one of the cheapest and most delicious sushi places in Europe. Even the sake and local beer won’t clean out your wallet. Bon appetite!