Ultimate Budget-Friendly European Adventure Itinerary: England & Beyond

Day 1: Arriving in Manchester

Manchester, England

8:00AM

Arrival and Breakfast

Welcome to Manchester! After arriving, enjoy a hearty breakfast at 'Federal Cafe & Bar' known for its affordable and delicious menu.
Located just a 15-minute walk from the airport terminals or a quick bus ride to the city centre.
NZD 20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Northern Quarter

Stroll through the vibrant Northern Quarter, famed for its unique boutiques, street art, and independent cafes.
A short tram ride or a 20-minute walk from Federal Cafe.
NZD 0, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Manchester Museum

Dive into art, culture, and archaeology at the Manchester Museum, which has free entry for most collections.
A quick tram ride from Northern Quarter.
NZD 0, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Wharf

Refuel with a traditional English lunch at The Wharf, offering a variety of budget-friendly options.
A pleasant 15-minute walk from the Manchester Museum.
NZD 25, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Castlefield

Wander through the historic area of Castlefield, famous for its canals and Roman ruins.
A 10-minute walk from The Wharf.
NZD 0, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Head to Trafford Centre

Experience shopping and entertainment at the Trafford Centre, one of the largest shopping centres in the UK.
Take a bus from Castlefield, which takes around 30 minutes.
NZD 0 (shopping at your discretion), 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Tk Maxx Cafe

Enjoy a casual dinner at Tk Maxx Cafe, offering affordable meals with a stylish setting.
Located within Trafford Centre.
NZD 30, 1 hour

8:00PM

Drive to Middlesborough

Pick up your rental car and drive to Middlesborough. Enjoy the scenic route and anticipate new adventures.
Driving takes approximately 1 hour.
NZD 15 (fuel), 1 hour

9:30PM

Check-in to Accommodation

Settle into a budget-friendly hostel such as YHA Middlesbrough, perfect for students and young travelers.
Located centrally in Middlesborough.
NZD 40, 1 hour
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Day 2: Exploring Middlesborough

Middlesborough, England

8:00AM

Breakfast at Sirus Coffee

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Sirus Coffee, loved for its great coffee and healthy options.
A short walk from your accommodation.
NZD 15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Discover the Transporter Bridge

Visit the iconic Transporter Bridge, one of the last remaining transporter bridges in the world.
Just a 10-minute drive from the cafe.
NZD 5, 1 hour

11:00AM

Teesside University Art Gallery

Explore local art and exhibitions at the Teesside University Art Gallery, which offers free admission.
A short 15-minute drive.
NZD 0, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at the Cleveland Centre

Grab a budget-friendly lunch at any of the eateries in the Cleveland Centre.
A quick 5-minute drive or a 20-minute walk from the gallery.
NZD 20, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Albert Park

Relax at Albert Park, a beautiful Victorian park that’s perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Only a 10-minute drive from the Cleveland Centre.
NZD 0, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore the Riverside Stadium

If there’s a match on, catch a budget-friendly football game at the Riverside Stadium.
A 10-minute drive from Albert Park.
NZD 30 (depending on match), 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at the Staging Post

End your day with dinner at the Staging Post, a cozy pub with affordable meals.
On your way back from the stadium.
NZD 25, 1 hour

8:00PM

Relax and Reflect

Spend the evening enjoying some downtime in your accommodation to prepare for your next adventure.
Back to your hostel.
NZD 0, 3 hours
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Day 3: Day Trip to York

York, England

8:00AM

Breakfast at YHA

Enjoy breakfast at your hostel before setting off to York.
In-house breakfast for hostel guests.
Included in accommodation, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to York

Set out early and drive to York, a city known for its rich history.
Approximately 1 hour drive from Middlesborough.
NZD 10 (fuel), 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit York Minster

Explore the magnificent York Minster, one of the largest cathedrals in Northern Europe.
A short drive or walk into city centre.
NZD 20, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Shambles Market

Grab a bite at local vendors in The Shambles Market offering budget-friendly options.
Located nearby the Minster.
NZD 15, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore The Shambles

Wander through The Shambles, a historic street, with charming shops and cafes.
Short walk from The Shambles Market.
NZD 0, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the National Railway Museum

Discover the history of rail transport in the UK at the National Railway Museum with free entrance.
A short walk from The Shambles.
NZD 0, 2 hours

4:30PM

Return to Middlesborough

Drive back to Middlesborough, reliving your joyful day.
Approximately 1 hour drive.
NZD 10 (fuel), 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Akbar’s

Enjoy a delightful Indian meal at Akbar’s, known for its affordable and delicious menu.
Short drive from your hostel.
NZD 30, 1 hour

8:00PM

Relax Back at the Hostel

Spend the evening relaxing, prepping for the next day’s adventure to Whitby.
Back to your hostel.
NZD 0, 2 hours
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Day 4: Day Trip to Whitby

Whitby, England

8:00AM

Breakfast at YHA

Another hearty breakfast at your hostel before heading to Whitby.
Included in your stay.
NZD 0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Whitby

Set off for Whitby, a charming coastal town known for its historic abbey.
Approximately 1 hour drive.
NZD 10 (fuel), 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Whitby Abbey

Explore the ruins of Whitby Abbey, inspiring Bram Stoker's Dracula.
Short walk from the parking area.
NZD 15, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Stroll along the Harbour

Enjoy a scenic stroll along Whitby’s picturesque harbour.
A short walk from the Abbey.
NZD 0, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Another Time

Savour a lovely lunch at 'The Magpie Cafe' known for its excellent fish and chips.
Located along the harbourside.
NZD 25, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the Captain Cook Museum

Discover the heritage of Captain James Cook at this intriguing museum.
A 15-minute walk from the cafe.
NZD 10, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Explore the Beach

Spend some time relaxing on Whitby Beach, perfect for a leisurely afternoon.
Walk down to the beach from the museum.
NZD 0, 2 hours

5:30PM

Drive Back to Middlesborough

Head back to Middlesborough after a delightful day in Whitby.
Approximately 1 hour drive.
NZD 10 (fuel), 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at The Golden Fleece

Finish the day with a comforting meal at The Golden Fleece.
Located centrally in Middlesborough.
NZD 25, 1 hour

8:00PM

Evening at Hostel

Relax and share stories of your day with fellow travelers back at YHA.
Back to your hostel.
NZD 0, 2 hours
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Day 5: Travel to London

London, England

8:00AM

Breakfast at YHA

Enjoy a final breakfast at your hostel in Middlesborough.
Included in your stay.
NZD 0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to London

Begin your journey to London, the capital city of the UK.
Approximately 3 hours drive.
NZD 30 (fuel), 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Borough Market

Indulge in a variety of affordable food options at Borough Market.
Famous market located in Southwark.
NZD 20, 1 hour

1:00PM

See the Tower of London

Visit the historic Tower of London, home to the Crown Jewels.
A short tube ride or 30-minute walk from Borough Market.
NZD 35, 2 hours

3:00PM

Walk across Tower Bridge

Take in spectacular views as you walk across this iconic bridge.
Just adjacent to the Tower of London.
NZD 0, 30 minutes

3:30PM

Explore Southbank

Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Southbank, filled with artists, cafes, and stunning views.
Starts from the Tower Bridge.
NZD 0, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Flat Iron

Enjoy a budget-friendly steak at Flat Iron, known for its quality and affordability.
Located along the Southbank.
NZD 25, 1 hour

6:30PM

Check-in to London Hostel

Check into a budget-friendly hostel such as YHA London Central.
Located in the heart of London.
NZD 60, 1 hour

7:30PM

Evening stroll in the City

Explore the streets of London at night and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
Walk around your hostel’s vicinity.
NZD 0, 2 hours
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Day 6: Exploring Edinburgh

Edinburgh, Scotland

7:30AM

Breakfast at the Hostel

Start your day with breakfast before heading out to explore more of London.
Included in your stay.
NZD 0, 1 hour

8:30AM

Train to Edinburgh

Take an early train to Edinburgh to maximize your time in this historic city.
A quick walk to the train station.
NZD 40 (train ticket), 4.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Baked Potato Shop

Enjoy a casual lunch famous for baked potatoes with a range of toppings.
Located in the city centre near the station.
NZD 15, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Edinburgh Castle

Take in the stunning views and rich history at Edinburgh Castle.
A stone’s throw from The Baked Potato Shop.
NZD 20, 2 hours

4:00PM

Wander along the Royal Mile

Stroll through the Royal Mile, filled with shops, cafes, and historic sites.
Easily accessible from the castle.
NZD 0, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Oink!

Famous for its pulled pork sandwiches, satisfying and affordable.
Located along the Royal Mile.
NZD 15, 1 hour

7:00PM

Check-in to Edinburgh Accommodation

Check into a budget-friendly hostel like Castle Rock Hostel.
Central location with great reviews.
NZD 40, 1 hour

8:30PM

Explore Princes Street Gardens

Enjoy the beautiful gardens and vibrant atmosphere before ending your day.
Short walk from your hostel.
NZD 0, 2 hours
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Day 7: Exploring Cardiff

Cardiff, Wales

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hostel

Fuel up with breakfast included in your accommodation.
In-house breakfast.
NZD 0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Train to Cardiff

Take a train to Cardiff, Wales’ bustling capital.
A short walk to the train station.
NZD 40 (train ticket), 5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Potted Pig

Enjoy a unique dining experience in a former bank-turned-restaurant known for its delicious dishes.
Cozy location in the city centre.
NZD 25, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Cardiff Castle

Explore the magnificent Cardiff Castle, a true architectural gem.
Located within a short walking distance.
NZD 20, 2 hours

5:00PM

Stroll around Cardiff Bay

Enjoy a scenic stroll along Cardiff Bay, taking in the modern architecture and serene waterfront.
A short bus ride or long walk.
NZD 0, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Kettle's Yard

Finish your day with a lovely meal at this charming local restaurant.
Close to Cardiff Bay.
NZD 30, 1 hour

8:00PM

Check-in to Cardiff Accommodation

Find a budget-friendly hostel such as YHA Cardiff.
Conveniently located in the city centre.
NZD 40, 1 hour

9:00PM

Relax at the Hostel

Spend the evening mingling with fellow travelers and reflecting on your adventures.
Back at your hostel.
NZD 0, 2 hours
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Day 8: Return to Manchester

Manchester, England

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hostel

Enjoy breakfast one last time before returning to Manchester.
Included in your stay.
NZD 0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Manchester

Head back to Manchester for your international flight.
Approximately 3 hours drive.
NZD 30 (fuel), 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Motorway Services

Stop for lunch at a budget-friendly service station along the way.
Located along the highway.
NZD 15, 1 hour

1:00PM

Arrive at Manchester Airport

Ensure you have ample time to check in for your flight.
Following signs to the airport.
NZD 0, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Departure

Board your flight and take away unforgettable memories of this adventure.
Travel via airport security and boarding gates.
NZD 0, Time varies
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