How much would it cost to travel Europe and how much time do I need?

Question

I want to plan a trip to Europe. I have a friends in England I can stay with and one in France so I don't need to have hotels always. I was thinking I would have about 2 weeks and wanted to see Germany, Italy, France, and Spain. I then have a separate week to spend in the UK and Dublin. What do you think I will have time for and how much money should I save in US dollar. I love to see historical sites and museums. What do you sagest. Any good books also would help for backpacking.

Answer 1

I suggest you scale down your trip a little bit.  That's a LOT of territory to cover in just 2 or 3 weeks, geographically and otherwise.  It's a full overnight trip from Paris to Madrid, for example, and the ferry from France to Ireland takes a day as well.  Cost depends on when you go and where you stay.  Before you plan anything, check out the Let's Go book series ("the Bible of the budget traveler") and maybe Rick Steves Europe Through the Back Door.  Rick has great ideas on how to plan a trip, what to pack, distances, types of lodging, budgeting, etc.