Tourist discount cards, free admission to world-class museums, free hotel nights, and free performances are just some of the possibilities at home and abroad this summer.
Germany says welcome
All major German cities, as well as many towns and regions popular with visitors, are offering WelcomeCards filled with savings. Many offer free public transit and free admission or reduced rates on attractions from sightseeing tours and museums to theatre and concert performances and spas.
Cities offer the cards for one, two or more days, for individuals, families and groups. Children and teenagers often go free with card-holding adults, or can get their own cards at a reduced rate.
For more, check the appropriate tourist office via the links on cometogermany.com.
Affordable Spain
Spain's third largest city, Valencia, has more than a dozen museums and attractions that are always free.
Among the top picks are the Silk Exchange (a UNESCO heritage site), the Admiral Baths and the Museum of Fine Arts (Museu de Belles Arts de Valencia) -- one of the country's best art galleries.
Join the Cirque
Visitors to Quebec City can see a unique Cirque du Soleil travelling performance for free this summer.
There are three simultaneous departure points from which spectators can experience Les chemins invisibles and follow the "tribes" of performers to the Garden of Desolation. Running for the next five years, the show takes place every weekday evening in summer, from June 24 to Labour Day weekend.
Discover the Irish
Tourism Ireland has launched a new "Hot Travel Deals" page on its website discoverireland.com.
You'll find discounts on airfare, accommodations, self-drive and escorted tours to Ireland. Another new feature highlights a range of free activities and attractions as well as discount cards such as the "Ireland Visitor Discount Pass," the Ireland at a Glimpse booklet, and the "Dublin Pass."
Birthday at sea
The Victoria, B.C.-based Black Ball Ferry Line is celebrating 50 years of service this year by giving free passage (excluding vehicles) to anyone travelling on the day of their birthday.
The deal applies to the M.V. Coho's scenic, 90-minute journey between Victoria and Port Angeles, Wash., the gateway to the Olympic National Park and Washington State. (Regular fare is $13.50 US per passenger). The ferry has four return trips daily until Sept. 27. Check cohoferry.com.
Musical London
St. Martin-in-the-Fields church in London's Trafalgar Square has a series of free lunchtime concerts on Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays year-round.
Performers are young professionals at the start of their careers. Donations are accepted. Check smitf.org.
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