europe tour on a budget

Cookie policy

Wanderlust Movement | A South Africa Travel Blog

How To Travel Europe on a Budget: A Complete Guide

July 24, 2018 by Lauren Melnick

Last Updated on January 24, 2023 by Lauren Melnick

Ah, Europe.

The land home to ancient history, pizza, beautiful beaches and first world public transportation.

In my teens, I dreamt of travelling to France and living out my own Passport to Paris fantasy. I wanted to go on a subway, peer through the gates of Buckingham Palace, and see my favourite bands play live at Download Festival.

For years, it remained a dream I never acted upon.

I knew Europe wasn’t a cheap place and had the mindset that I’d never have enough money to go.

Fast forward almost a decade later, and I’ve been to Europe not once, not twice but three times.

And I didn’t have to sell everything I own or work crazy long shifts in shitty retail jobs to make it happen.

Curious about how to visit Europe on a budget?

You just need a dash of flexibility, a sprinkle of planning and a cup of frugality to get the most out of your Rands.

Here’s how to travel Europe on a budget!

Table of Contents

How to Find Cheap Flights From South Africa to Europe

When is the best time to travel to europe on a budget, fly with budget airlines, travel europe via train, use cheap bus travel in europe, save time finding the cheapest transport option, try out blabla car, use public transportation, hit the pavements, find deals on booking.com, live like a local with airbnb, become the ultimate backpacker with couchsurfing, cook your own meals, stay at a hotel or hostel that offers a free breakfast, keep an eye out for lunch specials, eat where the locals eat, eat street food, visit the cheaper european destinations, compare tourist passes, cheap things to do in europe, use atms instead of currency counters, get yourself a credit card that doesn’t charge for international withdrawals, use your credit or debit cards, travel with two cards and keep them separate, travelling europe on a budget is possible.

Have you experienced the phenomena of internally sobbing while typing in each digit and watching your bank account run dry?

You’re not alone.

Before I discovered flight comparison site Skyscanner , I thought the only way I could go to Europe was if I signed up for those ridiculously priced Contiki Tours.

Since then, I’ve picked up a few other tricks on the way that have helped me find return flights to Portugal and Italy for under R 5000.00.

How did I do it?

I’ve written an in-depth 9-step process blog post , but the main tool in my cheap flight arsenal is Skyscanner’s “Everywhere” tool.

All you need to do is enter your departing destination as “South Africa” and your arrival destination as “Everywhere”.

The search engine will then find the cheapest flights departing from South Africa. It’s an easy way to see what deals are flying around and which European destination will be the most affordable entry point.

Plus, it’s winter. So you can finally see snow!

Get ready to make those snow angels, learn the lyrics to “ Do You Want To Build a Snowman ” and develop an appreciation for thermal underwear.

The only exception during low season is the Christmas and New Year holidays. Prices do peak again especially in countries like Germany that are famous for their Christmas markets and traditions.

If you’re more of a summer child or you hate wearing layers, plan your trip to Europe between April to May or September to October.

These are Europe’s two shoulder seasons. Temperatures and prices are slightly higher for these months, but it’s still way more affordable than Europe’s popular high season.

Speaking of the high season, that’s the one you want to avoid if you’re travelling Europe on a budget. From June to August, prices skyrocket.

I’m talking R 2000+ for a one hour flight that’s typically R200-R300.

With so many people heading to Europe for summer, hotels and hostels double their prices.

I paid EUR 50 for the shittiest dorm room in Rome that’s usually less than half that price.

But if you can’t avoid travelling to Europe in the summer, then it all comes down to picking the right destination.

More about that below.

What’s the Cheapest Way to Travel Europe?

You know what’s a great feeling?

Paying R 300 for a RETURN flight between Italy and Germany.

But if you want to reap those savings, you need to book your flights in advance – especially if you’re travelling Europe during high season.

For example, that same exact flight will end up costing you around R 1,400 in July.

With so many budget airlines, flying is the best way to travel Europe on a budget. Plus, it will help you get to your next destination faster!

Read More:  3 Insanely Cheap Ways to Travel Europe in 2022

Want to explore Europe at a slower pace?

Hop on board one of the hundreds of trains that zigzag across the region!

Take a high-speed train between Amsterdam and Belgium, travel around Italy or use it as a way to see more of the countryside.

The only downside is that train travel is that it’s not the best option for transportation in Europe on a budget.

Greg and I paid EUR 100 (R1,500) for our train trip from Berlin to Amsterdam (full guide dedicated to train travel in Europe is coming soon!).

The high season definitely impacted the cost of our ticket. In fact, when I checked back a week later, the price had almost doubled.

If you want to explore multiple European countries by train, the Eurorail Pass can work in your favour. It’s valid for 28 countries and offers multiple days of travel extended over a month or two.

But it will make you poor.

Keep a look out for discounts if you’re under 26 and book your tickets well in advance to maximise your savings.

Bus travel in Europe is not for everyone – but it’s cheap.

You can travel from Munich to Nuremberg for as little as EUR 6 (R 94.00) with Flixibus, making it the best way to see Europe on a budget if you’re not on a time crunch.

I used them for my trip between Berlin and Krakow.

Eurolines is another affordable long-distance bus I used to get back to Berlin from Amsterdam.

That trip cost me EUR 25 (R 394.00).

Want to save even MORE money?

Book an overnight bus or train and save on a nights accommodation.

With so many budget flights, trains and bus companies – finding the cheapest way to travel Europe is a pain.

Unless you use Rome2Rio .

It quickly became the butter to my bread pre-trip and during my adventures around Europe.

All you need to do is pop in your departure and arrival destination, and the search engine will find the cheapest flights, train and bus fares.

Never heard of BlaBla Car ?

It’s a carpooling service in Europe that connects drivers with empty seats to people travelling the same way.

For most South Africans, that just sounds like a bad idea.

But it’s a thing in Europe and people actually get to their destination in one piece.

So when in Rome…

Select your driver based on their level of chattiness (introverts who hate small talk unite!), their music preferences, smoking or non-smoking and even if pets are in the car.

Public transport in European cities is extensive and cheap.

It’s one of my favourite things.

I don’t know what it is about subways, but I love them.

If you’re planning to use it a lot, do some research to see if there is a day pass you can buy.

Italy, Berlin and Amsterdam all had various options I used while in those countries.

• It cost me EUR 7 (R 110.00) for a 24-hour pass in Rome ;
• In Amsterdam, I bought a 48-hour pass for EUR 12.50 ( R197.00) and;
• In Berlin, I spent EUR 2.80 ( R44.00) for a 2-hour ticket and EUR 7 ( R110.00) for a day pass.

In some countries, the day pass will include public transportation to and from the airport.

If you buy a tourist travel card, like the Berlin Welcome Card, you’ll get unlimited public transportation included in the price.

More about the tourist cards later on.

But the ultimate way to keep your transportation costs low while travelling Europe on a budget is to walk EVERYWHERE .

The good news is that a lot of European cities are terribly flat.

Factor in that a lot of the attractions around the city centres aren’t that far apart, and your Samsung Health App step count won’t know what hit it.

How to Find Budget Accommodation in Europe

Okay, so besides your flights, accommodation is going to be your biggest cost.

If you’re struggling to find hotels within in your budget, consider staying outside of the city or in a smaller town and commuting in.

Below, I’ve listed the sites I use the most while travelling on a budget in Europe.

Booking.com is by FAR my favourite accommodation site.

It has everything from low-budget hostels to swanky five-star hotels. You can filter the search results to see places that offer free breakfast or are a close distance to a particular landmark and more.

If you use the site often enough, you’ll eventually unlock their Genius tier and get discounts as well as special perks.

I stayed in an Airbnb apartment during my 3-week trip to Sicily. It had everything I needed and quickly felt like home.

Prices on Airbnb aren’t that expensive especially if you travelling with a friend. Some cities even have “hostels” where hosts have a room with multiple bed bunks.

I found one in Paris within walking distance of the Eiffel Tower, and it didn’t cost my entire salary.

So if you’re not a fan of hostels and want to blend in with the locals, browse through the listings to see what’s available for your travel dates.

Couchsurfing is the mecca for backpackers.

It’s a way to stay in a city without paying a single Euro for your board.

Yip. FREE accommodation in Europe!

All you need to do is sign up, create an account and start reaching out to hosts available during your travelling dates.

If you’re worried about safety, only stay with hosts that have been verified by Couchsurfing and have tons of positive reviews by other surfers.

I’ve couch surfed in South Africa, Turkey and kinda in Germany and the Netherlands.

One of my followers on Instagram offered to host me in Amsterdam. For Berlin, Greg’s old colleague from South Africa happened to be in town and had a spare bed.

That still counts, right?

How to Save on Food Costs in Europe

Head to the nearest supermarket, grab your favourite things and get your chef on.

It’s the cheapest way to feed yourself in Europe.

I spent EUR 20-25 ( R 315.00 – R 394.00) on groceries that lasted me the entire 3-weeks I stayed in Sicily.

And yes, the majority of my meals were some kind of pasta.

Breakfasts at hostels are usually continental.

But free food is free food, and it should keep you fuelled up until lunchtime.

If you’re staying at a more posh hostel or a hotel, your breakfast will probably include a continental with a few other things like eggs, baked beans and some meat.

If you’re travelling to Rome , save money by taking advantage of the city’s lunch specials.

For EUR 10 (R 157.00), you can get a starter, a main and your choice of beer or house wine.

With most main meals costing EUR 8 and a glass of wine usually around EUR 6-7 (R 94.00 – R110.00), it’s an excellent deal.

Stray from the well-trodden path and find restaurants that are full of locals instead of other tourists.

The prices are usually lower, and you’ll have a more authentic experience.

If you’re going to Europe on a budget, street food will make its way into your diet.

From the delicious arancini balls in Italy to Poland’s famous Maczanka sandwich – there are cheap eats for your taste buds to discover in every country.

Read More:  50+ Genius Ways To Save Money for Travel

Not all European countries are created equal.

Some like the Netherlands will evaporate all your hard-earned savings in the blink of an eye.

While your money will stretch much further in countries like Poland or Romania.

Where to travel in Europe on a budget: 

• Prague, Czech Republic
• Gdansk, Poland
• Rome, Italy
• Porto, Portugal
• Budapest, Hungary
• Tallinn, Estonia
• Transylvania, Romania
• Berlin, Germany
• Istanbul, Turkey
• Saranda, Albania

Tourist Passes are travel cards specifically designed for, well, tourists.

The perks of buying one include:

• Unlimited use of public transportation.
• Free entry to specific museums or attractions in that city.
• Discounts for restaurants, tours and other attractions.
• Transportation to and from the airport.
• Access to the city’s hop-on-hop-off bus.

If you’re only in one city for 24, 48 or 72 hours, these cards pack A LOT of value.

But before you flip open your purse and pop out your credit card, do your research to see if it’s actually WORTH the money.

If you’re a museum geek and you want to go to the museums that come with the card – it’s a no-brainer.

But when you’re travelling Europe on a budget, it might work out cheaper to skip the card and do your own thing.

That’s what I did for Rome.

Instead of getting the Roma Card, I walked everywhere, bought one 24 transport ticket and only went to the free attractions .

You don’t need to spend a hella lot of money.

There are loads of free things to do.

And that’s music to any cash-strapped South African’s ears travelling Europe on a budget.

Here are just SOME of the things you can do for mahala:

• Visit museums and galleries with no entrance fee.
• Check to see which day the museums are free. For, e.g. The Vatican Museums are open for free on the last Sunday of every month.
• Sign up for a free walking tour.
• Explore some of the ancient cathedrals and churches.
• Go to a free concert. E.g. Amsterdam hosts free shows every Tuesday from September to May.
• Wander past a city’s free monuments. E.g. The Trevi Fountain in Rome won’t cost you a dime and neither will that iconic selfie with the Eiffel Tower.
• Head for the hills and go on a hike.
• Grab your bikini and catch some rays at the beach.

Read More:  How To Travel Rome on a Budget (& Still See the Top Sights!)

Managing Your Money For a Budget Trip to Europe

When you’re dealing with the terrifying exchange rate that is Rand to Euro – you need to make every last penny count.

Here are a few simple money tips to use while travelling Europe on a budget:

You’ll get a better rate of exchange. Currency counters at airports add a markup for their services that you don’t need in your life. Call up your bank before you leave South Africa, and unblock your card for international usage.

All those little fees start to add up each time you go to the ATM. If you can’t get a card that doesn’t charge, try to find one that has minimal fees or limit the number of times you withdraw cash.

Most credit and debit cards have a strong exchange rate. Try to get a card that doesn’t include fees for foreign purchases or has the lowest surcharge.

I learnt this lesson in Chiang Mai. Three days before my flight back to South Africa, an ATM ate my card, and I only had THB 2,000 to my name. I still had to buy food, pay for accommodation and transportation to the airport. Since then, I make a point to travel with two unlocked cards and keep one in my suitcase and the other in my purse.

Read More:  A Magical 2-Days in Lisbon Itinerary (Including a Sintra Day Trip)

That was a monster of a post.

If you’ve made it this far down, kudos to you my friend.

I hope you’ve found it useful and you feel budget travel in Europe is possible for you!

Enjoy your trip and remember, it’s totally acceptable to eat your weight in gelato while you’re there.

Want more Europe travel inspiration? Check out my other posts:

• How to Travel Rome on a Budget as a South African
• Amsterdam Coffeeshops: How to Get Stoned Like a Pro
• How to Get From Paris to Versailles & Plan The Perfect Day Trip
• How To Visit The Vatican (A Massive Travel Guide)
• How to Apply for Your Schengen Visa
• 16 of the Best Rand-Friendly Holidays Destinations in Europe

Did you find this post useful? Save it for later on Pinterest!

About Lauren Melnick

Lauren Melnick is the founder of Wanderlust Movement, Wander to Here and is a South Africa travel blogger. She's been travelling the world as a full-time freelance writer since 2016 and has visited over 40 countries.

When she isn't typing up a storm, you can find her conquering overnight hikes around the Western Cape, rock climbing, and hosting sold out group travel trips around South Africa, Namibia and Morocco.

Reader Interactions

July 28, 2018 at 6:31 pm

Very informative post! Great tip to take buses! Love trains, but buses are probably cheaper.

March 1, 2019 at 10:43 am

I would strongly recommend traveling through Europe on foot. Because Europe is such a densely packed continent there’s always something to explore, especially when you are hitchhiking.

Just make sure to bring a few essentials with you. Some rain gear is a good idea, though many just decide to sit out the rain. Sometimes you might not be anywhere near a hotel or inn when it’s getting dark. That’s why you should bring a small tent and sleeping bag with you.

March 7, 2019 at 9:38 am

Coming from a country like South Africa, I don’t think I would be able to wrap my head around hitchhiking and not getting murdered lol

April 12, 2019 at 4:18 pm

Hey, so I’ll be travelling around Europe and I’ve been look at Stoke Travel for accommodation. Thoughts? have you ever heard of them or stayed with before?

April 15, 2019 at 8:41 am

Hey! I’ve never heard of them before, but it does look interesting if you’re wanting to experience the music festivals and parties of Europe 🙂

February 18, 2020 at 4:14 pm

aLOVE the info. baie dankie

February 18, 2020 at 4:24 pm

Glad you found it useful 🙂

January 11, 2023 at 3:11 am

I love this blog! It’s so helpful and informative. I’m currently planning my first trip to Europe and this blog has been a huge help!

May 26, 2023 at 2:58 pm

thanks for all the infos, its very hard sometimes to travell when you dont have money :/ i also start using this app and i can highly recommend it to you 🙂 its called “ATM Fee saver” and its soo good and easy to use. its shows me atm around wiht no or low fees for withdrawing money. thats how i also save a bit of money while travelling

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Love The Content?

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Budget Travel

13 Affordable Places to Visit in Europe — From Country Escapes to Stunning Cities

You can visit Europe on a budget — here's how.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

If you have big dreams of jetting off to Europe, but worry that your bank account isn't quite ready, don't worry. For every expensive city, there are dozens of charming — and surprisingly affordable — places that offer all the European charm for a fraction of the price. Ljubljana, Porto, Budapest, even Berlin — these cities have all the rich culture, stunning architecture, and delicious food that you'd find in pricey European capitals, but they're perfect for budget travelers.

You can even travel to some of Europe's best (and famously expensive) destinations without breaking the bank — you just have to know how to save money without sacrificing on experiences. Travelers can often score deals on flights from the United States to major cities like Paris or London, and upon arriving, transportation within Europe can be much more affordable (hello, budget airlines). Those large cities also offer a wide range of accommodations, so you can certainly find something in your budget. You can even save money on food by hitting the local markets. After all, a bottle of wine, fresh bread, and cheese from a Parisian market make for an unforgettable meal when picnicking under the Eiffel Tower.

And you might be surprised by how many museums, churches, and other attractions are free or inexpensive to visit, too. Be sure to keep an eye out for free entry days (often one day a month) or tourist cards that offer entry to multiple attractions for one flat fee. (Do the math ahead of time by calculating the cost of every included attraction that you want to visit to make sure it's really worth the money.)

Trimming your budget doesn't mean sacrificing the quality of your trip. Sometimes, the less you spend, the more you can immerse yourself in the local culture. Staying in a thatched Irish farmhouse, perusing old masters in Rome, or snacking your way through Spanish specialties aren't just tricks of the frugal traveler — they're the stuff dream vacations are made of.

Here are some of the top destinations for an affordable European vacation (and tips for saving money once you arrive).

Bavaria, Germany

For a storybook-worthy vacation in Europe, head straight to Bavaria. Book a room at Burg Colmberg , a 14th-century castle rising from a rocky crag above a tiny village. It offers an eclectic collection of rooms tucked throughout a warren of crooked hallways, hidden staircases, and cozy sitting nooks. Be sure to visit the postcard-perfect Neuschwanstein Castle , resplendently perched atop a mountain, and take the time to tour Hohenschwangau, the castle in which "Mad King" Ludwig II actually lived. The latter is a more modest pile of battlements on a smaller nub of a hill in the valley below. What it lacks in the carefully crafted pomp and circumstance of Neuschwanstein — which Ludwig II never lived to see completed — it more than makes up for in homeyness and history.

Puglia, Italy

Michela Sieman/Travel + Leisure

The iconic architecture of Puglia — the "heel" of Italy's boot — is the prehistoric trullo, a cylindrical whitewashed house with a cone-shaped roof of stacked gray stones. There's no greater concentration of trulli than in the UNESCO-protected town of Alberobello, where whole neighborhoods are made of the structures, and the local entrepreneur behind Trullidea has fixed up dozens of the abandoned ones and rents them to visitors. Cool in the baking summers and with cozy indoor heating for wintertime, a rental trullo lets you live like a local for less than the cost of a tourist-class hotel in town. Want to sample what the Amalfi Coast was like before the hotshots and high prices moved in? Puglia's forested Gargano Peninsula is popular with sun-loving Italians, but is otherwise refreshingly off the tourist map.

Budapest, Hungary

Alisha McDarris/Travel + Leisure

The capital of Hungary, Budapest offers all the charm of more popular European destinations for a fraction of the price. The Hungarian Parliament Building and Fisherman's Bastion are just a couple of the picture-perfect attractions you'll spot in the city, and you'll find lots of affordable accommodations, meals, and nightlife, too. Even the city's famous thermal baths — some of which are over a century old and feature beautiful architecture — can be affordable to visit.

Andalusia, Spain

Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure

Take a break from sizzling on the crowded Costa del Sol beaches for a self-guided driving tour along the route of the Pueblos Blancos. This string of clifftop, whitewashed villages stretches from the Moorish town of Arcos de la Frontera through the Sierra de Grazalema to Ronda, a maze of medieval streets perched above a 500-foot gorge. Opt for a stay in nearby Seville — the capital of Andalusia — to take in the beautiful architecture, watch some flamenco dancing, and indulge in classic tapas.

Berlin, Germany

Berlin has Cold War mystique, contemporary architecture, and booming gallery and restaurant scenes. With its cosmopolitan, East-meets-West edginess, it's no wonder the city has become a cultural capital of central Europe. It's a destination that continues to attract creative types and in-the-know travelers. Begin your trip to Berlin in the fashionable Mitte (or "middle") district, as it's convenient to major sites such as the Reichstag and Potsdamer Platz.

Bath and the Cotswolds, England

The charming villages of the Cotswolds look like they're straight out of a fairy tale — Chipping Campden, Stow-on-the-Wold, and Bourton-on-the-Water are among the prettiest. There are inns and pubs sprinkled throughout the little towns, but we'd suggest staying in Bath, a quaint city dating back to the Roman era, for its variety of accommodations. While there, check out the Royal Crescent, Pulteney Bridge, Bath Abbey, and of course, the historic Roman baths. Best of all, Bath is under two hours from London by train, making it an easy weekend trip from the city.

Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul's major state-run museums may charge hefty admissions, but the Great Palace Mosaic Museum, just behind the Blue Mosque adjacent to the Arasta Bazaar, costs only 60 Turkish lira (that's about $4). These delightful mosaic scenes of hunts, myths, animal battles, and everyday life in antiquity — boys riding a camel, a man milking his goat — once covered the floor of a large courtyard of the Palatium Magnum, the Great Palace built between the time of Constantine the Great himself and Justinian I (fourth to early sixth centuries). You can even cruise between the continents for an affordable price when taking the ferry.

Ljubljana, Slovenia

Take a tour of the architectural masterworks of prodigious local talent Jože Plecnik, who took the Secessionist Art Nouveau style he learned in Vienna back home (via Prague) to remake his native city along his own, idiosyncratic lines. Like Gaudí in Barcelona, Plecnik designed his buildings right down to the smallest fittings, like the Pegasus door handles on the entrance to the National and University Library. Plecnik designed a bit of everything around town, from the central market to the two flanking spans of Ljubljana's iconic Triple Bridge to the café-lined embankments of the Ljubljanica River. The city also has a number of incredible, affordable restaurants, and you can take a public bus (for a small fee) to nearby Lake Bled for a day trip.

The Dalmatian Coast, Croatia

Skip the overexposed island of Hvar for the walled medieval village on the Adriatic island of Korcula, purported home to Marco Polo. Korcula is more of a day-trip destination, and that means the tourist crowds thin considerably by sundown, leaving those who remain to relax in the cafés and stroll the narrow alleys. While every old city in Europe has an Old City historic district, Split has the only downtown actually carved from the carcass of an ancient Roman palace. When the emperor Diocletian left his throne in A.D. 305, he built a lavish palace on the Croatian coast to live out his days as head of the empire's eastern half. In the 1,700 years since, the ruins of his enormous structure have been colonized by the locals, the buildings turned into medieval town houses, and the emperor's tomb transformed into the cathedral.

Paris, France

Want to experience fabulous French cuisine on a budget? Opt for a midday splurge — many cafés and restaurants offer less expensive menus at lunch. And a picnic is always a good idea in Paris. Stop by a market to peruse the (typically) extensive options for cheese and wine, or pick up a simple yet delicious crepe from a stand. If you plan to visit the City of Light's top museums and attractions, you might want to invest in a Paris Museum Pass . For one fee (priced depending on the number of days you purchase), you can gain admission to top tourist spots like the Arc de Triomphe, Sainte-Chapelle, Panthéon, Louvre, Musée Rodin, and more, and you get to skip the ticket line. Talk about a win-win.

County Clare, Ireland

Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure

Avoid the tour bus-clogged Ring of Kerry for its neighbor to the north, County Clare, home to the dramatic Cliffs of Moher rising more than 700 feet from the crashing Atlantic waves; the weirdly eroded limestone landscape of the Burren, where prehistoric slab tombs perch on the rocky flatlands like miniature houses of cards; and Doolin, a blink-and-you'll-miss-it village that has become a popular destination for traditional Celtic music. Local pubs are the perfect evening stop for hearty (and usually affordable) Irish fare and — if you're lucky — live music.

Rome, Italy

Daniel Gorostieta/Travel + Leisure

Rome has more than 900 churches, all of them free, displaying great works of art and architecture by the likes of Raphael, Bernini, Caravaggio, Bramante, and Pinturicchio. And that's just the short list of artists contained in one church — the little-visited Santa Maria del Popolo. Other iconic landmarks, like the Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, and Rome's famous piazzas are all free to visit, too, and some museums offer free entry days, so check their websites for details.

Porto, Portugal

Paula Galindo Valle/Travel + Leisure

Portugal's northern city of Porto is among Travel + Leisure readers' favorite European cities, and once you visit, you'll see why. In Porto, visitors can admire the Art Deco architecture, sip port wine, and explore the walkable city on foot without going over budget. Plus, a day trip to the Douro Valley, a picturesque vineyard region along the Douro River, is worth the trek.

Related Articles

• Travel Planning Guide

The Best Affordable Budget Tours to Europe

Get ready for an incredible adventure to Europe without breaking the bank with these fantastic budget tours. We've carefully analyzed a wide range of tours from highly reviewed companies, ensuring that you get the best value for your money. From affordable prices and positive guest ratings to excellent service, exciting destinations, and engaging activities, these handpicked tours prove that you can have a remarkable travel experience on a budget. So pack your bags and get ready to explore Europe on a fantastic organized tour without compromising on fun and adventure.

• Oktoberfest (2 night Package) 3 Days, $135.76
• Ultimate Oktoberfest Adventure (4 nights) 5 Days, $316.78
• Self-Guided Hiking Tour: Theth National Park, Valbona Valley & Koman Lake in 3 Days 3 Days, $271.52

What are budget and low-cost tours like in Europe?

Here are the important factors:

• 473 trip options analyzed
• $122 average price per day (USD)
• 1 to 34 days in length
• 4.58 of 5 average rating
• 40 people or less on average

You'll be surprised at the array of budget tours in Europe, as there is something for everyone. It's no wonder that visitors can't get enough of these tours, boasting an impressive average guest rating of 4.58 out of 5 stars. Picture yourself joining a group of like-minded adventurers, with an average maximum size of 40 people, ensuring a fantastic blend of social and personalized experiences. The average tour length spans 8 days, with tours ranging from 1 to 34 days long. Regarding physical activity , the tours are categorized as easy, moderate, serious, relaxing, and heart-pumping, with the majority being easy. As for transportation options, the tours are thoughtfully categorized as coach / bus, self drive, train & rail, and ocean cruise, with the most being coach / bus. For travel styles , the tours are marked as family and romantic, with a prevalent number on family tours. With our thorough analysis of 473 budget tours, we've found the best. So rest assured that Europe has something to captivate every kind of traveler.

(All tour prices are in US Dollars before taxes, and come from a base price that is reported by TourRadar. Peak season prices can vary significantly, particularly in destinations where seasonal travel fluctuates dramatically.)

So, let's get to it and see...

The 10 Best Budget Tours in Europe

Oktoberfest (2 night package).

• Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for budget tours.

This fantastic voyage has a rating of 3.8 out of 5 stars. Your adventure starts and ends in Munich. Lasting 3 days, the maximum group size is 700 people, and it's good for guests age 18 to 98. Organized by Stoke Travel , this is a great deal because it's only $45 per day.

• Party (Nightclubs)
• Festival & Events

Ultimate Oktoberfest Adventure (4 nights)

With a stellar 3.9 out of 5 rating, this extraordinary journey is the perfect choice. Munich will be the beginning and end of your trip. Spanning across 5 days, the journey accommodates 2000 individuals, and is suitable for guests age 18 and older. Offered by Stoke Travel , this remarkable journey is priced at just $63 per day. Don't miss out on this incredible experience.

Self-Guided Hiking Tour: Theth National Park, Valbona Valley & Koman Lake in 3 Days

• On Sale: 10% Off See Prices
• High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.

This exceptional trip offering by Choose Balkans has received a 4.9 out of 5 rating. On this 3-day journey you can unwind while also making new memories. Explore 5 incredible locations on this trip, including Shkoder, Theth, and Valbona Valley National Park. Begin and conclude your remarkable journey in the gorgeous destination of Tirana. Get ready to fully embrace hiking, camping, and mountain hikes. With a group size of 10 people, it's suitable for guests age 12 to 90. This remarkable trip is priced at an unbeatable $81 per day.

• Hiking & Trekking
• Mountain Hikes

Oktoberfest

Check out this journey that has received rave reviews, earning a stellar 5 out of 5 rating. You'll start and end your journey in beautiful Munich. Spanning across 3 unforgettable days, this voyage offers an intimate group experience with 2500 participants, and it's great for guests age 18 to 36. Brought to you by the renowned Yes-Trips , this exceptional opportunity is priced at an incredible $45 per day - an unbeatable value.

Hiking tour of Komani Lake & Valbona Valley in three days

This 3-day voyage is ideal for guests age 12 to 90. And priced at only $98 per day, it's a great value, too. On this amazing journey, you'll experience hiking and mountain hikes. This trip takes you on an adventure to 4 destinations, including Koman and Valbona Valley National Park. Tirana kicks off your expedition, serving as both the starting and finishing point. It's offered by Choose Balkans , a very popular company with rave reviews and knowledgeable guides.

Corfu Trail Walking - North and South

• On Sale: 15% Off See Prices

Priced at just $141 per day, this terrific 15-day voyage is ideal for guests age 16 to 85. Guests on this trip get to partake in hiking, sightseeing, mountain hikes, and coastal walks. With 15 destinations to explore, you'll get the chance to see Agii Deka, Liapades, Lakones, and Agios Georgios, and more. You'll start and end this amazing trip in Corfu. Organized by the reputable Explore! , this is one of the best tours on this list. Don't miss out on this limited-time sale.

• Sightseeing
• Walking Tour
• Coastal Walks
• Attraction-Based Hikes

Peaks of the Balkans Trail in 7 days - Choose Balkans Route

Check out this incredible voyage that has received a 5 out of 5 rating from previous guests, visiting Albania and Kosovo. Hiking and mountain hikes are just a few of the activities on this terrific journey. With a duration of 7 days, this journey ensures an intimate group size of 10 people, and is good for guests age 12 to 90. Along the way, this journey encompasses 8 destinations, including Shkoder, Theth, Valbona Valley National Park, and Çerem. Tirana will be both the start and end of your journey. This fantastic option, organized by Choose Balkans , presents an unbeatable value at just $113 per day.

Rila-Pirin Mountain Trek (Bulgaria), guaranteed departures

Spanning over 8 days, this journey has a maximum size of 12 individuals. Welcoming guests age 10 to 79, it is organized by Penguin Travel , a very popular company with plenty of great reviews. Guests are treated to unforgettable hiking and mountain hikes experiences. This itinerary covers 8 captivating destinations, with stops in Govedartsi, Malyovitsa, Seven Lakes National Reserve, and Rila, among others. Your adventure starts and ends in Sofia. Available at an unbeatable price of only $84 per day, this option also has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from previous guests.

Walking the Corfu Trail (South)

Here's your chance to take off on an exceptional voyage that has garnered a 4.3 out of 5 rating. Experience the excitment of hiking and coastal walks on your journey. With a duration of 8 days, this jouney will have 16 participants, and it warmly welcomes guests age 16 to 85. Expertly organized by Explore! , this amazing trip is an incredible value at just $132 per day. Act fast to take advantage of the current sale.

Valencia Mediterranean in Two Stages

This memorable voyage is offered by Mediterranean Bike Tours which has received plenty of positive reviews. The trip itself has a guest rating of 5 out of 5 stars, and is priced affordably at $94 per day. Uncover the beauty of 5 destinations on this itinerary, with highlights such as Canet d'en Berenguer, Montanejos, and Alfondeguilla. Your journey will begin in Sagunto and end in Torres Torres. The maximum group size is 8 people, welcoming guests age 16 to 70.

See also The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Europe , The Best Wildlife Tours to Europe , The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Europe , The Best Historical Tours in Europe , The Best 10-Day Tours in Europe , The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Europe , The Best 3-Day Tours in Europe , The Best 2-Week Tours in Europe , The Best 3-Week Tours in Europe , The Best 4-Week (1-Month) Tours in Europe , The Best Extended Trip Tours in Europe, One Month or Longer , The Best River Cruises in Europe , The Best Bicycle Tours in Europe , Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Europe , The Best Christmas & New Years Tours in Europe , The Best Christmas Market Tours in Europe , The Best Coach Bus Tours in Europe , The Best Adventure Tours to Europe , The Best Eco Tours in Europe , The Best Train & Rail Tours in Europe , The Best Thrill-Seeking Tours in Europe , The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in Europe , The Best Art History, Museums, and Cultural Tours Tours in Europe , The Best Sightseeing Tours in Europe , The Best Cultural Tours in Europe , The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Europe , The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Europe , The Best Music Tours in Europe , The Tours for Animal Lovers in Europe , The Best Photography Tours in Europe , The Best Camping Tours in Europe , The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Europe , The Best Self Drive Tours in Europe , The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in Europe , The Best Nightlife Tours in Europe , The Best Religious Tours in Europe , The Best Walking Tours in Europe , The Best Northern Lights Tours in Europe , The Best Honeymoon Tours in Europe , The Best Tours Under $1000 in Europe , The Best Luxury Tours to Europe , The Best Tours for Seniors to Europe , The Best Contiki Tours to Europe , or The Best G Adventures Tours to Europe for more tour ideas. With so many options, there's a guided tour or vacation package for every type of traveler.

How much do budget tours cost in Europe?

Visitors will find a large range of terrific options for budget tours when planning a visit to Europe. The price of these specific trips can vary according to length, destinations, and travel style. The average price of budget tours in Europe based on data from 473 options is an affordable $122 per day. If you're interested in more information about tours here, see our guide to tour prices in Europe .

Subscribe to our Newsletter

By signing up for our email newsletter, you will receive occasional updates from us with sales and discounts from major travel companies , plus tips and advice from experienced budget travelers!

Budget Your Trip

Some of the links on this website are sponsored or affiliate links which help to financially support this site. By clicking the link and making a purchase, we may receive a small commission, but this does not affect the price of your purchase.

• Privacy / Terms of Use
• Activities, Day Trips, Things To Do, and Excursions

• Europe Tours
• Budget Tours

Europe Budget Tours and Affordable Trip Packages 2024/2025

The best budget tours and trips in Europe. Choose from 2499 affordable tours in Europe with tour durations from 2 to 59 days and a total of 3004 customer reviews. Our group tours in Europe may also be a good place to start if you are looking for more inexpensive tours that are usually guided as well.

2536 budget tours in Europe

• Starts Amsterdam, Holland
• Ends Paris, France

Glimpse of Europe

• Best price guaranteed
• No booking fees
• Tour Type Group Tour
• Activities Sightseeing Tours & Art and architecture Sightseeing Tours , Art and architecture & Cultural, religious and historic sites 'data-more-tripid='21253'>+1 more
• Accommodation Hotel
• Transport Private Vehicle, Coach & Boat
• Age Range 5-99 yrs
• Operated in English
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,695
• Special Deal (19%): - US$ 320
• Total Price from: US$ 1,375
• May 27 10+ seats left
• Jun 03 Only 6 seats left
• View More Jan 1, 2019 Jan 2, 2019 Jan 3, 2019

• Starts Vienna, Austria
• Ends Budapest, Hungary

Best of Central Europe

• Tour Type Small Group Tour
• Activities Sightseeing Tours & Art and architecture Sightseeing Tours , Art and architecture , Cultural, religious and historic sites & Mountains 'data-more-tripid='3044'>+2 more
• Accommodation Hotel & Resort
• Transport Train, Bus, Private Vehicle, Boat, Minibus & Taxi
• Age Range 15-99 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 4,075
• Special Deal (35%): - US$ 1,426
• Total Price from: US$ 2,649
• May 18 Only 10 seats left
• May 25 Only 9 seats left

• Ends Amsterdam, Holland

Europe Jewel

• Activities Cultural, sightseeing, food tours & Art and architecture Cultural, sightseeing, food tours , Art and architecture & City sightseeing 'data-more-tripid='37689'>+1 more
• Transport Coach, Boat, Taxi & Train
• Age Range 10-99 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,120
• Special Deal (31%): - US$ 980
• Total Price from: US$ 2,140
• May 24 Only 1 seat left
• Jun 07 Only 4 seats left

• Starts London, England
• Ends London, England

Europe Taster

• Activities City sightseeing & Art & architecture tour City sightseeing , Art & architecture tour , Art and architecture , & heritage & Cultural, religious and historic sites 'data-more-tripid='37695'>+3 more
• Transport Coach, Boat & Train
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,860
• Special Deal (32%): - US$ 590
• Total Price from: US$ 1,270
• May 26 Only 2 seats left
• Jun 23 Only 3 seats left

Get Social: Central & Eastern Europe

• Activities Explorer
• Accommodation Bungalow & Hostel
• Transport Coach, Bus & Helicopter
• Age Range 18-39 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,739
• Special Deal (10%): - US$ 374
• Total Price from: US$ 3,365
• Jun 05 10+ seats left
• Jun 26 10+ seats left

• Starts Sofia, Bulgaria
• Ends Athens, Greece

All About Balkans (4 Star Hotels)

• Activities Sightseeing Tours & Art and architecture Sightseeing Tours , Art and architecture & Cultural, religious and historic sites 'data-more-tripid='17753'>+1 more
• Transport Bus, Coach & Boat
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,497
• Special Deal (45%): - US$ 1,124
• Total Price from: US$ 1,373
• May 11 10+ seats left
• May 25 10+ seats left

• Starts Reykjavik, Iceland
• Ends Reykjavik, Iceland

Best of Iceland

• Activities Natural landmarks sightseeing & Waterfalls Natural landmarks sightseeing , Waterfalls & Beach 'data-more-tripid='4964'>+1 more
• Accommodation Guest House & Hotel
• Transport Bus, Minibus, Private Vehicle & Boat
• Age Range 12-95 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,099
• Special Deal (25%): - US$ 775
• Total Price from: US$ 2,324
• May 12 Only 6 seats left
• May 16 Only 9 seats left

• Starts Vilnius, Lithuania
• Ends Tallinn, Estonia

Baltic Capital Cities

• Activities Active and outdoor & Cultural, religious and historic sites
• Transport Bus
• Age Range 16-95 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,470
• Special Deal (11%): - US$ 160
• Total Price from: US$ 1,310
• May 25 Only 7 seats left
• Jun 01 Only 4 seats left

• Starts Baku, Azerbaijan
• Ends Tbilisi, Georgia

Caucasus Countries (12 days)

• Trip customizable
• Activities Sightseeing Tours & Cultural, religious and historic sites Sightseeing Tours , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Art and architecture & National parks 'data-more-tripid='18354'>+2 more
• Transport Coach & Minibus
• Age Range 12-75 yrs
• May 18 10+ seats left
• Jun 15 10+ seats left

European Vistas

• Activities Natural landmarks sightseeing & City sightseeing
• Transport Coach, Boat, Private Vehicle & Taxi
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,890
• Special Deal (29%): - US$ 543
• Total Price from: US$ 1,347
• Jun 01 Only 2 seats left
• Jun 13 10+ seats left

• Starts Dublin, Ireland
• Ends Dublin, Ireland

Irish Explorer

• Activities Art and architecture & Cultural, religious and historic sites
• Transport Coach
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,685
• Special Deal (32%): - US$ 545
• Total Price from: US$ 1,140
• May 26 Only 5 seats left
• Jun 09 Only 8 seats left

• Starts Rome, Italy

Best of Italy, Switzerland and Paris

• Activities City sightseeing & Cultural, religious and historic sites
• Transport Boat, Private Vehicle & Coach
• Age Range 8-95 yrs
• May 19 10+ seats left
• May 26 10+ seats left

• Starts Split, Croatia
• Ends Split, Croatia

Croatia Sailing Adventure

• Activities Sailing, yachting and motor boating & National parks Sailing, yachting and motor boating , National parks & Chill out 'data-more-tripid='37268'>+1 more
• Accommodation Yacht Cabin
• Transport Private Vehicle, Yacht & Boat
• Age Range 18-40 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,895
• Special Deal (40%): - US$ 758
• Total Price from: US$ 1,137
• May 29 Only 10 seats left

• Ends Rome, Italy

Europe Escape

• Activities City sightseeing
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,990
• Special Deal (35%): - US$ 1,046
• Total Price from: US$ 1,944
• Jun 02 Only 2 seats left
• Jun 16 Only 3 seats left

Europe Budget Tour Reviews

• Aaron Pepin

Budget tours and trips

• Balkans budget tours
• Baltic budget tours
• Eastern Europe budget tours
• Mediterranean budget tours
• Northern Europe budget tours
• Scandinavia budget tours
• Uk And Britain budget tours
• Italy budget tours
• Europe trips
• Eco tours in Europe
• Europe guided tours
• Europe family tour packages
• Europe honeymoon packages
• Europe luxury tours
• Europe private tours
• Europe romantic holidays
• Europe self-guided tours
• Europe small group tours
• Europe solo trips
• Europe tours for senior citizens
• Europe tours for young adults

Europe group tours

• Europe last minute deals
• Europe travel deals
• Balkans group tours
• Baltic group tours
• Eastern Europe group tours
• Mediterranean group tours
• Northern Europe group tours
• Scandinavia group tours
• Uk And Britain group tours
• Italy group tours

Sign-in to unlock instant trip discounts. Create wish lists and save up to USD 1,500.

11 tips for traveling Europe on a budget

Traveling Europe — in Normal Times — can be an expensive splurge or an affordable adventure depending on where you go, how you plan to arrive and what you plan to do at your destination. Although the continent seems small, a quick hop to Ireland is a world away from a five-hour flight to the Canary Islands or an Interrail adventure to the Swiss Alps. With so many diverse countries to choose from, it can often be overwhelming to plan a trip -- especially if you're tight on funds. But if you follow the below tips, you can have a fantastic vacation that won't blow your budget.

1. Get creative with points and miles

Having a stash of points and miles is great, but if you don't really know how to use them , they won't get you very far. So get creative with your points and miles and remember to think outside the box when using them.

For example, if you can't find award availability on British Airways using your Avios, you can transfer them to Iberia or Aer Lingus for a whole slew of other redemption options.

Remember that partner airlines are always an opportunity and that your credit card points are transferrable to airlines that maybe aren't as common. For example, American Express Membership Rewards points transfer to airlines like Aer Lingus and Air France-KLM.

Read more: The ultimate guide to Amex Membership Rewards

2. Fly low-cost

With many spots in Europe just two-hours or less away by plane, flying a low-cost carrier isn't so bad -- as long as you know the rules. Remember that you'll be charged extra for pretty much everything, so plan ahead if you want to check a bag, board first or reserve your seat. If you are country hopping, consider choosing a home base and planning weekend trips so you don't have to check all your luggage. And when you snag a deal for $50, $25 or even$10, just grab your under-the-seat backpack and go -- you won't regret it.

3. Travel in the off-season

Traveling in off-season or shoulder-season will save you money on flights, hotels and award redemptions. Plus, you'll deal with fewer crowds and avoid long lines, especially when visiting major tourist attractions.

Flights and hotels may offer cash deals in the off-season and remember that most airlines have peak and off-peak calendars when it comes to award redemptions, charging fewer miles/points during off-peak dates.

And consider that some hotel loyalty programs, such as Bonvoy, now have both peak and off-peak points redemptions , so if you choose to redeem during off-peak dates, your points will extend even further.

Generally speaking, most European countries' off/shoulder-seasons are October to November and January to June. Of course, avoiding major celebrations like Christmas and Easter, as well as busy bank holiday weekends, will also ensure you get the best rates.

4. Visit affordable destinations

Visiting Paris and Amsterdam (even if you do get an affordable flight deal and are able to use points for a hotel stay) won't run cheap. Instead, consider some cheaper cities in Europe, such as Krakow, Porto, Bucharest, Kiev, Budapest and beyond. A good rule of thumb is to decide what type of vacation you hope to have and then look for alternative options.

For lazy beach days, skip the French Riviera and head to Sicily or the Albanian Riviera instead. Ditch Santorini for a lesser-visited Greek Island like Paxos, Sifnos or Symi. Wine taste in Estonia, not Bordeaux, admire art in Madrid, not Vienna, or ski in Spain's Sierra Nevada instead of the Swiss Alps. Whatever style of European vacation you'd like to have, you can do on a budget -- just pull out a map and think outside of the traditional hotspots.

Read more : Long layover in Madrid? Here's all you need to know

5. Stay in a home rental or hostel

Home rentals can actually save travelers a lot of money -- and not just on the actual rate of the rental, but also on dining out or doing laundry . Since home rentals often come with amenities like a full kitchen or washing machine, you can cook your meals and wash your clothes at home, which is a huge money saver -- especially for a lengthy stay. And living like a local has cultural benefits, too, like getting a real feel for a city and how its residents go about their daily routines.

Hostels are another cost-effective alternative to hotels. And it's not what you think: these types of lodgings aren't all bunk beds and backpackers. In fact, many European hostels come with private bathrooms and bedrooms, more like small hotels than anything else. Plus, Europe is seeing an uptick of trendy boutique hostels such as the Generator brand, meaning you can still have a comfortable accommodation experience while not overspending.

6. Use the right card for purchases abroad

Unfortunately, some points-earning credit cards charge a foreign transaction fee (about 3%). However, depending on the value of the points you can earn, you may (or may not) come out on top when using it abroad. To find out, check out the TPG's monthly points valuations to see how valuable certain point currencies are.

While we almost never recommend using a debit card, but it may make sense in many instances when spending abroad. For the best cards to use, check out this guide on best cards to use abroad .

7. Know the tipping rules

Whether it's 10% or nothing at all, understanding the tipping culture can help you avoid a faux pas post-meal or after a taxi ride, as well as ensuring you don't spend money unnecessarily. Apps like Gratitude Tipping can help, showing you the rules by country for tipping drivers, guides, restaurant waiting staff, bartenders and hotel staff.

8. Don't discount trains

Although trains aren't always super cheap, sometimes they can be affordable and easy -- especially when booked in advance. Trains will help you avoid airport delays, turbulence and are generally more comfortable than a teeny airplane seat. If you need to travel with a lot of baggage or extras, trains can also be an ideal choice. And some European train journeys are incredibly scenic, making the train ride a vacation in itself. For those heading off on a backpacking adventure, Interrail passes are a valid option.

9. Travel light

Almost all European airlines charge for checked baggage -- and many taxi drivers around Europe will also add on fees for luggage, too. You can avoid this by packing light and right, using things like packing cubes or wearing travel clothing .

10. Do a free walking tour

Most European cities offer free walking tours. Check online before traveling, sign up in advance if necessary and enjoy your free tour. Although tipping is suggested, it's likely you'll still spend a lot less, even after generously tipping your guide. You may also meet other like-minded travelers, which can be welcome if you're traveling alone or looking to make new friends.

11. Check on your mobile data

While some mobile networks offer free roaming in Europe, it's a good idea to confirm to ensure you won't see any added roaming charges. There's nothing worse than receiving a hefty mobile bill upon return when you're already dealing with post-vacation blues. If your network doesn't offer free-roaming, see how much roaming rates cost before traveling, or consider buying a local SIM card upon arrival to your destination.

Travel Europe on a Budget

The Savvy Backpacker

With The Savvy Backpacker

City guides .\33 a132798-3f3b-4585-954d-7e70cf863447{fill:#231f20}, free online city guides, welcome to the savvy backpacker.

Hi, I'm James and I've been teaching people how to travel Europe on a budget since 2010. I created The Savvy Backpacker to be the most comprehensive resource for planning your trip to Europe. Join me to learn more about the best travel backpacks, train travel in Europe, curated packing lists, European city travel guides, cheap data plans, itinerary planning, and money-saving strategies to help you plan a trip to Europe on a budget.

My Popular Europe Travel Articles

Europe Packing List For Women

Europe Packing List For Men

The Best Travel Backpacks

Avoiding Pickpockets and Travel Scams

How To Choose The Best Travel Insurance

How Much To Budget For Traveling Europe

Europe City Price Guides

Guide To Train Travel In Europe

How To Get Cheap Mobile Data In Europe

Most recent travel articles, the best travel backpacks | in-depth buyer’s guide & backpack reviews.

April 28, 2024

A list of my favorite travel backpacks for every travel style.

phones and technology

Best Prepaid UK eSIM | Data Plan Buyer’s Guide

April 21, 2024

A guide to finding the best prepaid eSIM data plans for visiting the United Kingdom

Budget Travel Newsletter

The best budget travel tips sent straight to your inbox.

Join My Journey

Europe travel tips, advertising & privacy policies.

TheSavvyBackpacker.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.

© 2010 - 2024 The Savvy Backpacker

Website Design by FHOKE

5 budget destinations in Europe you won’t want to miss

The ability to experience a number of different European cultures on one trip is priceless, so to speak.

But if you want to travel Europe on a budget as well as achieve cultural immersion, you’ll probably want to choose your destinations wisely. Because from France’s iconic capital to Greece’s hedonistic islands, Europe’s rich diversity can make for a relatively high price tag to boot.

Luckily, however, some countries offer more bang for your buck than others.

As a general rule, the further east you travel, the cheaper the destination (in terms of food, attractions, accommodation etc.). But, there’s more to it than that. There’s an art to making your Europe trip work for your budget. And a lot of it’s to do with using our insider tips.

An Intrepid group soaking up the sunset in Madrid

Being budget-friendly is far from the only appeal of these five countries, but it’s not a bad place to start:

Romania: budget-friendly on all levels

Preserved medieval villages with cobblestone roads, storybook castles and beautiful churches galore, Romania offers a quintessential European experience. The kicker: it’s all for a fraction of the price of other areas of Europe. To add to the allure, the Eastern European gem is also home to what’s known as Dracula’s Castle. Yep, Transylvania is the place to check out this cliff-top castle set against the dramatic backdrop of the Carpathian Mountains.

One of the major treats of Romania is that a lot of the worth-seeing attractions are free. Hike in Brasov, wander the amazingly-preserved medieval town of Sighisoara (the reported birthplace of Dracula) or gawk over the architectural beauty of  Cărtureşti Carusel, a bookstore in Bucharest.

To see the extravagant castles (which you really should), you’ll only pay between $5-$10. The food scene is also great value for money. In Romania you can eat well for around $8.

Visit this destination: Intrepid’s 10-day Budapest to Bucharest trip takes you to many of Romania’s highlights. Read more about it: 8 places you didn’t know you needed to see in Europe (Romania included!)

Spain: underrated cities that your budget adores

Ah, there is much to envy about the day-to-day life of Spaniards. Daily siestas, Gaudi architecture to gawk over and the food, oh yes, the food. But there’s much more than Spanish stereotypes to be uncovered, especially if you venture to underrated Spanish cities such as Bilbao and Salamanca. Oh, and it’s really not as pricey as expected.

Venture inland to Madrid, one of Europe’s cheaper-than-expected capitals. The lively barrio of La Latina is the area to hit up for all your budget needs. The city’s oldest neighborhood, it brims with tapas, bars, cantinas and street-food stalls. Alternatively, the market hall of Mercado de la Cebada is the perfect launch point to mingle, fill your belly on local eats and check out its exterior walls (containing one of the world’s biggest works of street art), all while on a budget.

Exploring Madrid on an Intrepid trip

For a truly immersive cultural experience in Europe, food undoubtedly plays a massive role. Instead of gathering at restaurants off of the main drags, opt for the more hidden gems (experience them on Intrepid’s 10-day Real Food Adventure).  This is hardly a compromise to fit a budget. Street food, locally-owned restaurants and food markets have become essential to most European food scenes — not to mention that they contribute to the local economy.

READ MORE: 6 MUST-TRY DISHES IN MADRID

In  Spain , you’re obviously going to get to grips with tapas. But, did you know they come with a bonus? The snack-size shareable dishes sometimes come free with the purchase of a drink, like at Entre Cáceres y Badajoz in Madrid. Local restos often offer  menu del día ( menu of the day) which come with an appetiser, main and the option of a drink or dessert. All of this comes to about $15, so is worth hunting down.

Tapas in Barcelona

When you find yourself in a major city like Barcelona, gravitate towards public markets. La Boqueria, for example, is a dream for street food. Its grand setting hosts an array of budget-friendly food vendors to take your pick from, including massive paella and fresh juices for only $1.50. Take it to go to make it a picnic and you’ve basically mastered Europe on a budget.

Visit this destination: Check out the best of Spain on Intrepid’s 15-day Best of Spain trip (Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia and more included!) Read more about it: 6 cities in Spain to visit before everyone else does

Hungary: affordable luxuries and great value sights

Hungary may not be as much of a bargain for travellers as it once was, but it’s still more wallet-friendly than many countries in the west. Budapest is one of pricier capital cities in Eastern Europe – but if you know where to look, you can experience its best bits for next to nothing.

Budapest is actually split in two by the Danube, with one side named Buda and the other Pest – who doesn’t love a two-for-one deal? While the majority of the city’s buzz sits on the Pest side, it’s worth crossing the Liberty Bridge (an excellent – and free! – sunset viewing spot) to explore the hills of Buda and take in panoramic views of the city.

Szechenyi Baths, Budapest

If you’re here for the thermal baths but don’t want to splash too much cash, here’s how to soak while saving a few hundred forint. The most famous bathing spot, Schechenyi, is better value if you opt for locker-only entry after 6pm on weekdays. But for an even better deal without the crowds, take your pick of the city’s lesser-known but equally soothing baths, such as Kiraly, a quaint old bathing spot with an atmospheric octagonal pool; tickets come at a fraction of the cost of Schechenyi.

Visit this destination: Many of our Central Europe tours start or end in Budapest. Read more about it : What to eat and drink in Hungary .

Portugal: the free outdoors

When you visit a destination that has as many beautiful beaches, boardwalks, lookout points and maze-like streets to wander as Portugal,  it’s easy to stay on budget. Bask in the sun on a beach cove by the jagged cliffs of the Algarve coast. Take a break from wandering the streets of Lisbon at a  Miradouro  (lookout)  da Graça   and stare in awe at the panoramic views.

Lookout point in Lisbon

Also visit Baleal Beach in Peniche and check-out the skilled surfers carving waves on the Atlantic. There’s so many outdoorsy things to do that your visit really doesn’t have to break the bank.

But, it’s not all about beaches and riverside strolls. We wouldn’t blame you if you go to Portugal just for the food ( here’s a cheeky guide ). Why? Well it doesn’t hurt that the price of food and drink is also some of the cheapest in Europe! Pastel de nata (custard tarts) are delightful and cost less than $3, plus they can be found pretty much everywhere. Delicious ocean-to-table fish and  churrasqueira (BBQ) chicken are also plentiful and often cost less than $5. Coffee also costs as little as $1…

Pastel de nata

Heading north beyond Lisbon is a great bet to scale back your spending. When it comes to enjoying Port, a traditional Portuguese wine, there’s no better place to visit than its birthplace, Porto. Enjoying a glass of port can cost as little as $3.

Visit this destination: Eat your way through Lisbon, Porto and so much more on Intrepid’s 8-day Portugal Real Food Adventure. Read more about it: Why Porto is the hottest destination in Portugal (and what to do there!)

Poland: off-season budget travel

Poland is the ideal place for a budget-friendly, off-season escape. Perched on the edge of the Baltic Sea, this Eastern European country sees Jewish heritage and medieval architecture join forces for a destination with history, food and cities like no other.

Our best tip is to skip the peak summer months and travel on the shoulder season, which falls just before Easter or after October. The benefits? Cheaper flights and fewer fellow travellers.

The Wawel Castle in central Kraków.

Winter here captures the country in all of its magical, snowcapped glory. And fewer people go to the slopes of the Tatra Mountains (a range forming the border with Slovakia), which means you can hike their trails in relative seclusion. After you ease your way through the mountains, you can enjoy a hearty fireside meal in the company of locals who wisely benefit from the off-season perks.

Regardless of the season, Poland is already incredibly inexpensive for travellers. Yet to adopt the Euro, the currency of the Polish Złoty will do your wallet wonders. At traditional restaurants such as Kurna Chata in Wroclaw, you can feast on pierogi with sauerkraut for less than $8, and pair it with a glass of wine for around $3. And wandering around the stunning streets of Krakow , for instance, is absolutely free. Bliss.

Visit this destination: Explore epic mountains and incredible cities on Intrepid’s Best of Central Europe adventure . Read more about it: 5 reasons why Poland is Europe’s most underrated destination

An Intrepid leader showing off Lisbon’s coolest sights

• Use helpful and sustainable apps like Too Good to Go. It lets you snag end-of-day food sales from dining spots all over.
• Bring a reusable water bottle. Not only is this good for the environment, but it saves you money to put towards more exciting things.
• Opt for a multi-day public transit pass. Taking public transit not only means you  reduce environmental impact,  but you can get from A to B like a local while saving some coin.
• When at a restaurant, ask for the lunch menu. Often these dishes are cheaper than the dinner menu.
• Travel with a local as your guide . It’s as authentic as it gets when locals invite you for food or take you to their favourite spot in their hometown. A cool experience AND one that’ll save you money? Tick.

Now you’re equipped with budget savviness.  Check out Intrepid’s range of small group adventures in Europe.

(Moldova image c/o iStock/SpVVK. Romani image c/o iStock/AnSyvanych. All other images c/o Intrepid Travel.)

Feeling inspired?

Julie Faye Germansky

I am a storyteller based in Toronto with a passion for all potato-based dishes, solo travel, sky-high views and talking to strangers. Join me for the ride at talk-to-strangers.com or keep up with my Instagram @julesfayegermansky and Twitter @julsgermansky

You might also like

The 7 best places to go on a..., 10 surprising facts about ethiopia, galapagos or madagascar which unique destination should be..., travelling to chile here’s the best time to..., 10 reasons to visit samoa, the 10 antarctica questions you want answered, australia or new zealand where to go on..., 10 epic spots to stop at on your..., small group travel vs coach tours: which is..., costa rica or mexico: which country to check..., 7 of the best destinations for solo travellers....

The 20 best places to visit in Europe on a budget

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

• roughguides.com
• best-places-to-visit-in-europe-on-a-budget

written by Lottie Gross

updated 11.07.2023

Europe presents an irresistible challenge to the budget traveller. A potent mix of culture, landscape and history on the one hand and a cash-gobbling monster on the other, sticking to your daily allowance can prove tricky.

1. The Albanian coast

2. sarajevo, bosnia-herzegovina, 3. bansko, bulgaria, 4. czechia (czech republic), 5. estonia’s baltic coast, 6. leipzig, germany, 7. london, england, 8. the peloponnese, greece, 9. budapest, hungary, 10. palermo, sicily, italy, 11. lake ohrid, macedonia, 12. kotor, montenegro, 13. gdánsk, poland, 14. porto, portugal, 15. transylvania, romania, 16. novi sad, serbia, 17. the high tatras, slovakia, 18. northwest slovenia, 19. andalucía, spain, 20. lviv, ukraine.

But learn to zone out the “Spend! Spend! Spend!” siren song of its myriad restaurants, bars and shops and you’ll find that this compact little continent is simply the world’s greatest labyrinth.

There's an abundance of beautiful places in Europe which don't require much of a budget to see; and some experiences, like the infamous Budapest nightlife, combines both entertainment with local booze.

When exactly is the best time to visit Europe? Well, it depends on what you're after. Thankfully there's a year-round roster of things to do and see. We've picked out the cheapest places to travel on the continent this year (note that the "Rough Costs" below reflect per person or per night). From low budget tourist places in the world to the cheapest country to travel to, where do you think will make the list?

Want to find out more about budget travel in Europe? Check out our Rough Guide to Europe on a Budget .

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Spain, created by local experts

9 days  / from 2468 USD

Andalucía Explored

Discover the best of Andalucía's breathtaking palaces, churches, museums, vineyards, and more, as you travel through spectacular scenery dotted with pueblos blancos and bordered by rugged mountains and coast en route to Granada, Seville, Ronda and Jerez de la Frontera.

4 days  / from 643 USD

A culinary experience in Seville

Explore the cuisine and surroundings of Seville in Andalucia. From Iberian ham over sherry wines to the production and secrets of olive oil, this tour is an ideal weekend getaway. Decide yourself if you prefer a rental car or a chauffeur-driven car to explore the beauty of Andalucia.

10 days  / from 3791 USD

Spanish Honeymoon

Discover Andalusia, starting with the cultural city of Seville, then on to Córdoba and Granada, home of the stunning Alhambra Palace. Next you'll visit Granada and the Albayzin Arab quarter, then enjoy a stunning hot-air balloon ride, before ending your trip with a luxury boat trip from Marbella!

Looking for Mediterranean sun and sand, but your budget doesn’t quite stretch to Capri or the Côte d’Azur? Simply head further east and you’ll find sun-drenched beaches untouched by modern development. Albania is one of the cheapest countries in Europe, and as yet under-explored by the tourist hordes. On its southern Ionian coast, steep grey mountains frame azure seas and golden sands.

Also take note - the Albanian capital Tirana will certainly surprise you with the number of interesting things you can do there .

Sarande is almost in touching distance of Corfu and is a handy entry point from Greece. From here you can aim for the beaches of Ksamil and nearby islands. Cheap seafood, warm seas and a smattering of isolated Greek ruins and Ottoman towns: the perfect recipe for a classic European sojourn.

Where to stay

Best for being on the beach: Vila E Bardhe

Best for great views of the harbour: Hotel Real

From Saranda: Visit the archaeological park of Butrint on a private tour

From Durrës: Wine tasting and history tour in Berat

Find more ideas for visiting Albania with our guide to the best things to do in Albania .

Rough costs:

Daily budget: Basic €30, occasional treat €45

Drink: Bottle of red wine €6

Food: Qoftë (minced meat rissoles) €2, seafood €6

Hostel/budget hotel: €15/€35

Travel: Bus: Tirana–Saranda €10.50; train: Tirana–Shkodra €3.30

Buy the guide >

Though the scars of Sarajevo ’s past as a city under siege are still evident. There are remnants of mortar shell explosions, filled with red resin to form “Sarajevo Roses”, and the museums document the horrors of Sniper Alley. Today, the city buzzes with life and is one of the cheapest countries in Europe. If you don't want to miss any of the key historic sites, book ahead and join a guided tour.

One of the most welcoming capitals in Europe, its central district of Baščaršija is a delight to wander through. Browse in the Ottoman-era bazaar or linger over a Bosnian coffee. The after-hours scene is quirky and cool, with tucked-away drinking holes and an ever-evolving club scene.

Best hostel for city location: Hostel Franz Ferdinand

Best for location to tourist attractions: Hotel Europe

Best for first time visitors: A guided walking tour in Sarajevo

Best for getting out of the city: A day tour to Jajce and Travnik

Rough costs

Daily budget: Basic €28, occasional treat €45

Drink: Bosnian coffee €0.70–1

Food: Cevapcici (meat rissoles) €3–4

Hostel/budget: €10/€28

Travel: Bus: Sarajevo–Bihać €17–25; train: Sarajevo–Mostar €5–7

Read our destination guide to Bosnia-Herzegovina >

Hitting the slopes without breaking the bank can be a challenge. Especially when the main Alpine resorts are located in some of the most expensive countries in Europe! However, eastern Europe has a few intriguing ski destinations, including Bulgaria ’s Bansko on the Pirin mountain range.

The country’s main ski resort has good beginner and intermediate runs. There's a decent range of shared or private accommodation to choose from, easily making Bansko one of the best places to visit in Europe with friends. The town itself has considerable charm, with numerous traditional old pubs hidden down its cobbled alleyways.

Best for guest house experience: Zigen House

Best for great location: Kap House Hotel

Best for the adventurers: River rafting on the Kresna Gorge

Best to get to know the culture: Experience local traditions, dishes, crafts and stories

Also while planning your visit, read our guide to the best things to do in Bulgaria .

Drink: Beer (0.5l) €1.25

Food: Shopska salad €4

Hostel/budget hotel: €12/€60

Travel: Train: Sofia–Plovdiv €4–6; bus: €5

Find out more about Bansko >

Though ever-popular Prague is not quite the dirt-cheap city break destination it once was, you’ll still find Czechia (Czech Republic ) to be a good-value country for independent travel. The country that invented Pilsner is justifiably famous for producing some of the best beers – at pretty good prices.

But there's plenty of other reasons as to why it's one of the best places to visit in Europe. In Prague , the choice of watering holes ranges from traditional beer halls and monastery taverns to a new generation of microbreweries. Continue the Czech beer trail with a visit to the Pilsner Urquell brewery in Plzeň, before striking out to the country’s lesser-known spots, such as charming Olomouc , a pint-sized Prague without the tourists.

If you're heading to Prague, where you're based can make all the difference to your experience, so make the right start with our guide to the best places to stay in the city.

Best location for hostel: Safestay Prague

Best for shopping and city centre: K+K Hotel Central

Best for history buffs: Small group tour to the Prague Castle

Best for a magical evening: Dinner cruise on an Open-Top Glass Boat

Daily budget: Basic €45, occasional treat €55

Drink: Pilsner Urquell (0.5l) €1.60

Food: Pork and dumplings €8

Hostel/budget hotel: €20/€45

Travel: Train: Prague–Karlovy Vary €12; bus: €14

Explore the best of Czech Republic >

Related articles from the blog

Known for the popular city break destination of Tallinn , small and beautiful Estonia also provides swathes of wilderness, with beautiful stretches of coastline, a scattering of islands and forested national parks along its long Baltic coastline. With so much centered on the outdoors, it's arguably the cheapest country in Europe.

An hour from Tallinn, 725-square-kilometre Lahemaa National Park is best explored by bike. You can cycle its coastal paths, discover rugged coves, windswept beaches and fishing villages and even sleep on hay bales at a farm. Venture further west, and the summertime resort of Pärnu has fantastic beaches, The island of Saaremaa offers soft-carpeted pine forest countryside and very affordable spas.

Best for boutique hotel in Tallinn: Hotel Meltzer Apartments

Best for boutique spa in Saaremaa: Grand Rose SPA Hotel

Best for historical, Soviet heritage: Day tour from Tallinn to Naissaar, also known as Women's Island

Best for urban exploration: The Industrial Stalker Bike Tour in Kalamaja District

Daily budget: Basic €40, occasional treat €60

Drink: Le Coq beer €2.60

Food: Blood sausage and sauerkraut €7

Travel: Bus: Tallinn–Saaremaa €9; Tartu–Tallinn €13

As far as Europe travel goes, Berlin is an anomaly. It’s one of the few capitals where the cost of living is lower than the national average. It's a legacy of the country’s former divide, which still means former East Germany is notably cheaper than western centres like Frankfurt and Munich . But as prices gradually rise in gentrifying Berlin, there are other eastern cities to venture to, including buzzing Leipzig .

The city that kick-started the 1989 protests that led to the country’s reunification has long had a fierce, independent spirit. Over the past few years, it’s also developed quite a reputation for its thriving artist enclaves and offbeat nightlife. Its culture scene is in constant flux, with old industrial buildings, such as former cotton mill the Spinnerei, converted into cutting-edge spaces.

Best for city location: IntercityHotel Leipzig

Best for little luxury: Pentahotel Leipzig

Best for family exploration: 3hr canoe tour through the city

Best for first-time visitors: Hop-on Hop-off bus tour including walking tour

• Daily: Budget Basic €57, occasional treat €73
• Drink: Beer (0.5ml) €3.35
• Food: Schnitzel €8
• Hostel/budget hotel: €20/€35
• Travel: Munich–Berlin: train €55–142; bus €22

Fall in love with the rest of Germany >

London and budget aren’t words that usually go together. However, London has more free world-class attractions than any other European city. There's the British Museum , home to enough treasures to satisfy the most curious of history hunters; the vast Tate Modern , with stupendous views from its terrace and ever-changing art collections; the Natural History Museum with its magnificent dinosaurs; and beautiful Victoria & Albert Museum – all free, all of the time.

And don’t forget the open spaces: spend a day tramping across Hampstead Heath, another meandering along the South Bank or perusing East End markets and you’ll get more of a sense of city life than if you’re stuck in a queue at an overpriced attraction. For food, opt for the popular street-food markets and your budget will stretch further – you might even have enough left for an overpriced pint.

Best for being in the centre of London: The Z Hotel Piccadilly

Best for location to Southbank: Park Plaza London Waterloo

Best for stunning views: The London Eye (make sure to book your ticket ahead of time to skip the lines)

Best for the adventurers: Climb the O2 Arena

• Daily budget: Basic €70, occasional treat €90
• Drink: Lager €6
• Food: Fish and chips €10
• Hostel/budget hotel: €13/20 (dorm/private)/€70
• Travel: Train: London–Brighton €20; bus: London–Manchester €40

Get the London low-down >

Think of budget travel in Greece , and the image is still one of island-hopping, sleeping on the deck of a ferry or camping on the beach. However, the slow pace of island travel and the popularity of the main resorts all adds to the cost.

Instead, consider the many-fingered peninsula of Greece . It has some fine beaches – less developed than those on the main islands – and it is home to the ancient sights of Epidaurus and Olympia . Medieval villages, spectacular rack-railway journeys and appealing Byzantine towns all await those who explore beyond the package holiday destinations.

Best for beaches in Finikounta: Hotel Golden Sun

Best for location in Nafplion: Pension Eleni

Best for day tours from Athens: Nafplio and Ancient Epidaurus

Best for explorers: Self-guided virtual reality tour of Olympia

• Daily budget: Basic €31, occasional treat €42
• Drink: Ouzo €3
• Food: Souvláki (shish kebab) €3
• Hostel/budget hotel: €21/€31
• Travel: Bus: Athens–Delphi €19; ferry: Athens–Crete €38

Straddling the Danube, the twin enclaves of Buda and Pest together make one of the most beguiling capitals in Europe . Their main pleasures won’t break the bank, making it one of the top cheap places to travel to.

Spend the day lounging by the pools in the spa, taking the occasional dip, cooling off under the fountains, and watching the old men play chess at the waterside tables. Come evening, the “r uin-bars” of District VII beckon – idiosyncratic bars tucked away in the neighbourhood’s courtyards. The tipple of choice is the cheap local white or rosé drunk long as a spritzer, perfect in the baking heat of summer.

Budapest is one of the best places to visit in Europe in the Spring (March to May) or Autumn (Sept to Nov) as the climate is at its most pleasant – ideal for those outdoor spa days and pounding the pavements.

Best for location to city centre: Arcadia Hotel Budapest

Best for a little luxury: Hotel Palazzo Zichy Budapest

Best to relax: Soak up the atmosphere at the Thermal Margaret Island Spa

Best for wine connoisseurs: Taste 7 Hungarian wines from boutique wineries

• Daily budget: Basic €42, occasional treat €62
• Drink: Beer (large) €2–2.60
• Food: Goulash €3–4
• Hostel/pension: €16–31
• Travel: Train: Budapest–Eger €8.30

Find out more about Budapest >

Any grand tour of Europe includes a string of beautiful Italian cities: refined Florence , alluring Rome and glamorous Venice . While there’s no doubting their charms, they are well and truly on the tourist trail, which pushes up prices, particularly in high season.

Escape from the mainland to Sicily and you’ll find in its capital Palermo a city both redolent of the Italy of yesteryear and – if you ask a Sicilian – a country apart. Undoubtedly run down in places, the city unfolds many surprises . There are churches covered in exquisite mosaics and cluttered neighbourhood markets, where you can snack on local street foods, like arancini (rice balls) and panelle (chick pea fritters), as you wander.

Best for popular attractions: Hotel Palazzo Brunaccini

Best hostel for location to the city: Balarm Hostel

Best for foodies: 3hr street food and history walking tour

Best for day trips: Explore Western Sicily with Segesta, Erice and Salt Pans

• Daily budget: Basic €36, occasional treat €52
• Drink: Wine €2.60/glass
• Food: Local pasta dish €5–8; pizza slice €2
• Hostel/budget hotel: €16–31/€47–62
• Travel: Train: Rome–Naples €21; bus: €12

Get inspired for Sicily >

Vast, deep, Lake Ohrid is the jewel of North Macedonia . The quiet streets of its namesake town reveal frescoed medieval churches, a Roman amphitheatre and a fortress worth climbing for the views. But as you explore the old town, the clear lake waters draw you back time and time again, inviting you to swim, dive or take to the waters by boat.

If you are tempted landwards it might be to hike in the nearby Galičica National Park. With cheap private rooms to rent and several waterside camping spots, the area is perfect for travellers on a budget to kick back and relax.

Best for a cosy guest house: Villa & Winery Mal Sveti Kliment

Best for views of Lake Ohrid: Villa Kale

Best for those with limited time: Day tour from Skopje to Ohrid

Best for history buffs: Private half-day city tour

• Daily budget: Basic €26, occasional treat €36
• Drink: Wine from €2.60 per bottle
• Food: Tavče gravče (bean casserole) €1.50
• Hostel/budget hotel: €10/€26
• Travel: Bus: Skopje–Ohrid €7; train: Skopje–Bitola €4

Travelling cheap? Montenegro won't disappoint. The beautiful walled town of Kotor sits at the end of a fjord-like bay, ringed by dramatic peaks. Just follow your nose in the Old Town. Getting lost in the labyrinth of streets is half the fun, discovering summertime cafés that spill out on the squares before clambering along the old fortress walls.

For a view over the whole gorgeous scene, hike up to St Ivan’s castle, overlooking the town. Kotor’s annual highlight is August’s exuberant Boka Nights festival , when the whole town celebrates as a lavish display of decorated boats parade in the bay and fireworks fill the sky.

Where to stay:

Best for boutique hotel: Boutique Hotel Astoria

Best for location to the city centre and the beach: Muo Apartments

Best to get away from the crowds: 2.5h Kayak Tour in the Bay of Kotor

Best for a day trip: Boat Tour to the Blue Cave & Our Lady of the Rocks

• Daily budget: Basic €31, occasional treat €52
• Drink: Nikšičko Tamno beer €1 (bottle from shop)
• Food: Sarma €2.60–4
• Hostel/budget hotel: €21/€52
• Travel: Bus: Budva–Kotor €3; train: Podgorica–Virpazar €1

For more ideas for visiting Montenegro read our guide to the best things to do in Montenegro .

Part beautiful Hanseatic city, part gritty port town and part Baltic riviera, the northern Polish city of Gdánsk offers a winning combination of coastal appeal. Though the core of this picturesque, colourful city, with its narrow merchant houses, looks ancient, it’s actually a postwar reconstruction – but the history is genuine. It's one of many cheap travel destinations to visit in Poland!

The shipyard crane dates back to the 15th century, and the city was the birthplace of the Solidarity anti-communist movement. Come summer, the action moves to the hip, coastal resort of Sopot , with its golden sand beach, lively party scene and attractive pier (the longest in Europe).

Best for location to the city centre: PURO Gdansk Stare Miasto

Best for great views and location to the city: Mercure Gdansk Stare Miasto

Best for nightlife: Pub Crawl with free drinks

Best for first-time visitors: Electric Scooter guided tour of the Old Town

• Daily budget: Basic €52, occasional treat €73
• Drink: Vodka (50ml shot) €1
• Food: Żurek soup €2–3
• Hostel/budget hotel: €12/€36
• Travel: Train: Warsaw–Kraków €34; bus: €16

Explore the WW2 Liberation Route with the help of a local expert >

Portugal travel doesn't get more exciting than in Porto. Portugal’s second city is appealingly set on the banks of the river Duoro. The riverside district of Portugal is crammed with no-frills good, local restaurants – pick somewhere a street or so back from the waterfront and you’ll be spoilt with local dishes and wines at excellent prices. With the city set on either side of the river, check our guide to the best places to stay in Porto to find accommodation that suits you best.

Other highlights include the vast Portugal park, with a superb art museum set within. However, it is port that the city is famous for. Vinologia is a great bar for an introduction to the varieties of fortified wine, and you can visit the port lodges across the river in Vila Nova de Gaia, where for a few euros you can sample their wares.

Make the most of your time in Porto and book ahead to explore some of the unknown wine cellars in the city .

Best for walks along the waterfront: 1872 River House

Best for value with style: MyStay Porto Batalha

Best for day tours: Small group tour to the Douro Valley, Wine Tasting and a River Cruise

Best for iconic views: Torre dos Clérigos (skip-the-line tickets)

• Daily budget: Basic €47, occasional treat €68
• Drink: Bottle of vinho verde in shop €3.60
• Food: Grilled sardines €8
• Hostel/budget hotel: €21/€47
• Travel: Train: Lisbon–Faro €23; bus: Porto–Lisbon €21

Delve into Porto >

Think Transylvania , and you’ll probably imagine Dracula and his castle – and you can certainly go in search of Dracula (aka Vlad the Impaler) connections here. If you're interested in finding Dracula, book your tour here . As Vlad’s birthplace, the attractive town of Sighisoara has the best claim to fame, and it also has a suitably imposing citadel.

But the region is not all fortifications and fangs – make time to venture out into the wilds of the Carpathian mountains , where you can track the Transylvanian wolf, along with bears, red deer and lynx in the Piatra Craiului National Park.

Best for visiting Vlad the Impaler: Casa Richter

Best for visiting Piatra Craiului National Park: Vila Hora cu Brazi

Best for explorers: Medieval City Exploration Game and Tour in Sighisoara

Best for those travelling in high season: Fast track tickets to Bran Castle (Dracula's castle - Romania's number one attraction)

• Daily budget: Basic €26, occasional treat €42
• Drink: Beer €1.90; bottle of Romanian wine €5
• Food: Tochitura moldoveneasca (Moldavian stew) €2.10
• Hostel/budget hotel: €10/€31
• Travel: Bus/train: Bucharest–Braşov €10

Discover more affordable places in Romania >

Also check our best things to do in Romania to make your trip here even more exciting.

Serbia abounds with sights to suit all tastes. Fancy a low-cost summer music festival? Serbia ’s famous EXIT Festival held in July might be just the ticket, and it’s less than half the price of Glastonbury. The line-up is always eclectic, with past acts including David Guetta and Ziggy Marley.

A trip here is about more than the music, however, with a setting that leaves other festivals in the shade. The Petrovaradin fortress stands majestically above the lively city of Novi Sad , a couple of hours from Belgrade. Stages and festival spaces fill every corner of the fortress, and you can spend your days lounging on the river beaches on the banks of the Danube.

If you don't have the time to stay longer, consider taking a day tour from Belgrade to explore Novi Sad and taste the local wines in Sremski Karlovci.

Best for rooftop views of the city: Hotel Leopold I Novi Sad

Best hostel for city location: Hostel Sova

• Drink: Beer (0.5l) €1
• Food: Pljeskavica (hamburger) €1–2
• Hostel/budget hotel: €13/€37
• Travel: Bus: Belgrade–Novi Sad €6; train: Belgrade–Niš €7

Get the low-down on Serbia >

Slovakia's pride and joy , the Tatras mountain range is a magnificent series of peaks – culminating in the pyramid-shaped Gerlach at 2,655m. Start at one of the village resorts like Nový Smokovec or Ždiar, then make for the mountains, where you can rest your weary heads at cheap hikers’ chalets.

This is serious mountain terrain, so be prepared and heed local advice. The mountains are also an inviting playground for climbers and cavers, and you’ll find mountain bike paths, tubing and rafting, plus a full winter season of skiing and snowboarding.

Best for the location to popular attractions: Penzion Reitmayer

Best for families: Apartmanovy Dom TatraTravel Smokovec

• Daily budget: Basic €37, occasional treat €47
• Drink: Beer €1.80
• Food: Gnocchi with bacon €4
• Hostel/budget hotel: €16/€31
• Travel: Bratislava–Košice (train) €20

Sandwiched between Italy, Austria and Croatia, compact Slovenia is an appealing destination on any journey through Europe. There's its charming capital, Ljubljana , as well as easy travel, a burgeoning wine industry and tempting pocket of coastline. For the adventure-minded, or for those who just want to camp in a beautiful lakeside setting, the northwest region is perfect.

Nestled below the stunning Julian Alps are the very different twin lakes of Bled and Bohinj . From here you can carry on to the Soča Valley, right by the Italian border, for hiking, kayaking and rafting adventures.

Best guest house for views of Lake Bled: Penzion Vila Prešeren

Best for lake views: Grand Hotel Toplice

Best for adventurers: 3hr Rafting Experience

Best for wine experiences: Taste 7 top Slovenian wines in a 100-year old wine cellar in Bled

• Drink: Pivo (beer' 0.5ml) €2.60
• Food: Pizza €5–7
• Hostel/budget hotel: €19/€62
• Travel: Train: Ljubljana–Maribor €9; bus: Ljubljana–Bled €7

Find out more about Slovenia >

The southernmost province of Spain, Andalucía travel is a tempting budget destination. This perennially popular region boasts showpiece cities such as Seville , Granada and Córdoba , with their exquisite monuments highlighting the area's Moorish past. Even here prices are competitive compared with Madrid and Barcelona.

You only need to head a little further afield, to the underrated city of Málaga with its Picasso connection and authentic tapas scene, or the atmospheric ancient port city of Cádiz, and you’ll enjoy that alluring southern Spanish vibe for budget-friendly prices. Cheap tapas (the tradition of free tapas originates in Granada) means you can sample Iberian flavours for a couple of euros a plate, and to continue your budget adventure, simply hop on the ferry to Morocco, tantalisingly close by.

Best guest house location to city centre: El Riad Andaluz

Best for style on a budget: Hotel Boutique Villa Lorena Malaga

Best for exploring arts: Guided tour through the Picasso Museum

Best for short hikes: Caminito del Rey - 3hr guided hike

• Daily budget: Basic €68; occasional treat €88
• Drink: €1.80–2.60 per caña (small beer)
• Food: Menú del día €10–12
• Hostel/budget hotel: €17/€36–83
• Travel: Madrid–Barcelona: bus €33–45; train €62–130

Book onto the best things to do in Andalucía

Situated in the west of this vast country, within easy travelling distance of Central European cities such as Kraków and Budapest, Lviv is the city to head for if you want a taste of Ukraine.

It revels in a mixture of Central European influences: Habsburg and Polish, Catholic, Orthodox and Armenian, with its architecture and magnificent churches reflecting this eclecticism. Ukraine regularly features on the list of cheapest destinations in Europe, and with a growing supply of backpacker hostels, appealing coffee houses and quirky bars, this is an extremely budget-friendly city with a refined edge.

Best for location to the city centre: Lviv Central Jam Hotel

Best for style on a budget: Taurus Hotel

Best for first time visitors: Lviv Old Town Walking Tour

Best for foodies with an interest in history: Communist-style Food and Bar Tour

• Drink: Horilka (vodka; 50ml shot) €1
• Food: Ukrainian borshch €0.80
• Hostel/budget hotel: €8/€31
• Travel: Train: Kyiv–Odesa €10; bus: €19

Top image © Patteran/Shutterstock

This feature contains affiliate links; all recommendations are editorially independent.

Top image: Malaga, Spain, Old Town Skyline © S Pavone / Shutterstock

• Travel Tips

Planning your own trip? Prepare for your trip

Use Rough Guides' trusted partners for great rates

Find even more inspiration here

Ready to travel and discover spain, get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

6 Cheap Ways to Travel Across Europe

Traveling around Europe can be expensive. Airfare, high-speed and overnight trains, ferries — they all eat into your limited (and precious) travel budget.

Fortunately, there are alot of ways to get around Europe on a budget. The sharing economy , new bus options, discounted train passes , and lots of budget airlines all help you navigate Europe without breaking the bank.

I’ve been traveling Europe since 2006 and have seen so many things change over that time period. While COVID has impacted things, I can honestly say that it’s never been easier to get around Europe because there are so many new cheap ways to travel the continent.

Here are the best ways to travel around Europe on a budget:  

1. Travel by Bus

Flixbus is usually the cheapest bus option, with prices starting as low as 5 EUR. Their buses include Wi-Fi, electrical outlets, free baggage (one carry-on and one stored under the bus), and comfy seats. (Megabus still runs in the UK.)

FlixBus quickly became my favorite non-train way to get across Europe cheaply. It’s not fancy by any means but it’s the cheapest way to get around. They most of Europe. Here’s a map of their routes to help you plan your trip!

However, there are plenty of other regionally-specific bus companies that will get you elsewhere. For example, Alsa is the main provider in Spain and its neighboring countries.

You can use BusRadar or Get By Bus to find the cheapest and fastest option on your desired route.

2. Travel by Budget Airline

Just remember that budget airlines make most of their money through fees. They are very strict about baggage limits or and many will ding you if you forget to print your boarding pass. Don’t expect any complimentary drinks or meals either. But if you follow the rules and know what to expect you can save a ton of money!

For more information, here is a complete guide to finding cheap flights.  

3. Travel by Eurail Pass

If you’re going to travel by train, it’s hard to beat them on price and convenience for short city-to-city travel. For longer journeys (overnight journeys, between countries, or rides that require a high-speed line, like Paris to Bordeaux or Berlin to Munich ), trains can get very expensive.

If you plan to travel around Europe and don’t want to fly, getting a rail pass is your best money-saving travel option. Your cost per trip will be a lot lower than if you were to buy these tickets separately.

Not sure if the Eurail pass is for you? Here is a complete breakdown of Eurail passes and when they should be used to save money .  

4. Travel by BlaBlaCar

This is the BEST paid way to get around Europe because you get to meet a local, have a friendly conversation, save money, and get to where you’re going faster. It’s available in close to 20 countries in Europe.

While BlaBlaCar may not always be cheaper than the bus (FlixBus can be super cheap!) it’s usually way faster and way more interesting!  

5. Travel by Rental Car/Campervan

Campervans are particularly popular in countries like Iceland , Scotland , and Norway since those destinations offer a lot of hiking and camping opportunities. You can find campervans for as little as 60 EUR a day — super affordable when split with a travel partner and when considering that this also includes accommodation! Use the app “park4night” to find free (and cheap) overnight parking all around Europe.   Note : Many countries in Europe require foreign drivers to have an International Driving Permit. You can get one in your home country before you arrive for around 20 EUR. (It’s essentially just a copy of your license in other languages). Also keep in mind that renting an automatic vs standard transmission will usually cost around twice as much.  

6. Travel by Hitchhiking

Just keep in mind that it’s important to use your head when hitchhiking. Always trust your instinct and use common sense. Keep your valuables on you in case you forget your bag in the car and never hesitate to text a friend or family member with the license plate before you get in. Write your destination on a sign and look presentable. That will help you find a ride faster.

Use the website Hitchwiki for tips to help ensure you have a fun and safe experience.  

The BEST and CHEAPEST Way to Travel Europe? Mix and Match Your Transportation

As you can see, there are a lot of ways to get around Europe on a budget. But the best way is to mix and match your transportation depending on where you are going and for how long. For short trips, I like trains and BlaBlaCar. For medium-length trips (i.e. half a day), I’ll take a bus, BlaBlaBla car, or train. For long distances, I fly or take a high-speed train or an overnight bus.

Too many travelers think it’s an all-or-nothing thing. Like one way is always better than the other. That’s not true. There’s no one way to travel around Europe. There are a ton — and you need to know when to use which method.

If you have more time, take the slower, cheaper routes.

If you have more money and a shorter trip, fly and take the train.

If you have no preference on how you travel — and you just want the cheapest option (which is usually what I do) — use a website like Rome2Rio or Omio . All you have to do is enter where you are going and these sites will mix and match the various ways to get around the continent for the least amount of money. They will string together buses and trains and planes to construct the quickest trip for the least amount of money.

Get Your In-Depth Budget Guide to Europe!

My detailed 200+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guides and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel while in Europe. It has suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off the beaten path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, safety tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today.

Book Your Trip to Europe: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight using Skyscanner . They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld . If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

For suggestions on where to stay during your trip, here are my favorite hostels in Europe !

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (for everyone below 70)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional repatriation coverage)

Ready to Book Your Trip? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use when I travel. They are the best in class and you can’t go wrong using them on your trip.

Want More Information on Europe? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Europe for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

Related Posts

Get my best stuff sent straight to you!

Pin it on pinterest.

APRIL SALE Extended:   Book now for   up to 60% off!

Europe Tours & Trips

With so many cultural experiences, it's no wonder why a European tour is top of mind for many. Step back in time when visiting London 's famous landmarks, sample the finest wines in Paris, or get lost in the alleyways of Rome . Whether you want to relax on a Danube cruise , or don your hiking boots in Iceland , there's so much to see on a tour through Europe.

250+ Europe tour packages with 83,995 reviews

• In-depth Cultural
• Coach / Bus
• Christmas & New Year

Majestic Europe

Our tour guides were the best, and the places we went as well. The only thing us that it felt a bit rushed between Praga- Innsbruck - Munich.

Europe Escape

Awesome experience, will go test it

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Europe Jewel

The Europe Jewel was so well planned and packed with exciting adventures, the tour guide and bus driver did an amazing job of keeping us safe and informed. We made some amazing friends from all around the world which made this tour even better. We had a blast!!

Best of Central Europe

To be honest, part of what made the trip fantastic was our group of 12- could not have had a better group to travel with- which is clearly luck, but a piece of our group being so cohesive was Nejca, our guide. She was perfect! Available but not pushy. Laid back, but willing to assert herself to make our experience the best. She made each person in the group feel special and appreciated. Thank you, Nejca! The itinerary was quite good as well. Although there were places I could have stayed for a day longer, I think it’s important to not stay too long and feel like time is wasted on a certain place on the tour. Transportation was efficient and Nejca did a great job getting us to our destinations easily and without rushing. Accommodations were very good- with the exception of Prague. Although our apartment was nice, it was clear that the residents of Prague feel that their space is being taken over by tourists- which is clearly true. I would have preferred to have stayed in a hotel in Prague-honestly, I would have paid more for it. Other than that, cannot day enough good things about the trip! Thank you!!

The Best of Eastern Europe

Excellent tour and with a small group it was easy to get to & enjoy everything. There were a couple of hiccups. More to do with local public transport and out of the hands of our CEO, Jakub. He took everything in stride though and went above and beyond to assist some of the group when they needed it My first group tour and I was pleasantly surprised. G Adventures did a stellar job with this tour and comments from other, who have done other G Adventures’ tours, members of group said they are generally good value

The Great Adventure

The tours was fine. The tour leaders were good and professionals. Just one complaint The hotel in Switzerland was not acceptable. No air conditioning. The rest of hotels were in good standard. My wife had a wheelchair and the tour personnel were highly helpful and ready to help on anyway possible. Thank you.

• Walking Adventure
• Sightseeing

European Discovery (Summer, Start London, Classic, 12 Days)

The trip was fantastic, I had the best time ever, making memories that will last a lifetime.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Photography

European Discovery (Summer, Start Amsterdam, Classic, 12 Days)

Baltic Experience

We loved the whole itinerary except for the long Vilnius to Warsaw bus ride. No other way it seems ..at this point.

Zagreb to Athens: Adriatic & Ancient Capitals

This trip was overall in one word... amazing. The destinations covered were amazing & beautiful. It was handy to have everything sorted out : the accommodation (mix of hostels & hotels), the transportation and many of the activities. Most of the places stayed did not have breakfast, but it was stated clearly that they wouldn't. Some of the places that had breakfast included a selection of breads, cereals and coffee - everything that you need. Croatia blew my mind.. The Croatia part of the tour was very in depth and I have a great idea of what the country is all about now & I also want to go back to see more in the future - The tour goes to cities, lakes, medieval villages, islands, beaches and has stops along the way to each usually. Note that on occasion there are stops along the way & the activity isn't always included in the tour.. I found that out the hard way in Albania. The transportation was a mix of using local transportation, personal buses and ferries. Note that in Albania MOST places do not accept credit card & we had troubles using the bank machines to take out cash.. Albania accepts the Euro as currency so make sure you have lots before you go (I also found out the hard way and didn't have any Euros as i Spent them in Montenegro) The groups for the tour are really what made the trip amazing.. Both groups were super friendly & alot of fun.. being a smaller tour and with the age restrictions it did make for a better trip because we were all around the same age, so had more in common! It was great having a smaller group too because we all became closer & spent even the "free time/Free days" together doing the activities. Our guide Marco was with us for both parts of the tour and overall he did a great job covering the information needed and I felt like we could always go to him if we had questions about anything. That was a part of the tour that I liked: knowing that I had someone to ask questions to who knows the area..Overall, HIGHLY recommend doing BOTH parts of this tour, as Many who didn't do the 2nd leg of the trip were super jealous and wishing they did! You won't regret doing this tour!!

Britain and Ireland Delight (Summer, 8 Days)

I really enjoyed the trip

European Cavalcade (End Paris, 18 Days)

Amazing!!! No complaints, loved it!! Tour guide was extremely competent and the driver was very very good. So many memories made, highly recommended!

• River Cruise

Romantic Rhine (Southbound) 2024

It was a great tour. There were a few thinks that could have been better. Gentle walking was not gentle and it would have been nice to know before hand that a half hour walk was more like an hour and a half.

All About Balkans (4 Star Hotels)

This was an amazing trip! Vojin was our tour guide; he was just excellent. Anything you wanted, pharmacy, postcards, restaurant recommendations, even taking pictures, which for me is a must, he was wonderful. I have been traveling for many years, and Vojin was the first tour guide who counted every passenger before we left the city on the bus. I can tell when a tour guide cares about his job and the traveling team, and Vojin goes beyond his comfort to take care of his travel team from Bulgaria to Macedonia. I would also like to mention the bus driver Slavče, was amazing; I am still in shock at how he managed to turn on streets with very little angle, and driving through the mountains of Montenegro and Macedonia was amazing. In most of the Balkans, everything is written in the Latin Alphabet, so it was easier to walk through the cities or restaurants and walk separately. On the trip to Greece, I was with Kostas. He did a great job, taking us to the best locations in Greece. Even a city in Greece where only Greek tourists go, no foreign tourists, was great. There was an excellent view and food. Great picture locations. Unlike the Balkans, in Greece, with the exception of Athens, everything is written in the Greek alphabet, so you need to stay together as a team so you won't get lost. I would recommend the Balkans and Greece for a tour. Besides the great and beautiful views, the wine is excellent in every country!

• €150 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Tour from Athens to Dubrovnik or Split: 7 Balkan countries in 14 days

Excellent trips around the Balkans. Personal, adapted to my wants with fewer shops and few patron saints, but more castles, battles and genocide. Eri and Sokol were excellent hosts, careful drivers and I cannot fault them in the slightest. My one reservation was the hotels rooms. They were in the 2* to 3* range. The hotel in Delphi was a disaster. They insulted Eri and of a morning there was no hot water. They insisted I pay direct and complained the booking was from Albania but my passport Australian. (I understand this hotel is no longer on the schedule.) The hotel and room in Kotor were excellent but others small. Great trip and really interesting recent history.

What people love about Europe Tours

Overall, a well organized trip. Eva is an awesome tour guide. Perhaps more cautions and security should be emphasized especially in Italy as some of our luggage and laptop were stolen when checking in at the hotel.

Great experience. Very fun.

The tour was awesome. Too bad it was short. Our Tour leader Noddy perform extremely well job organizing and controlling our big group so we was on time everywhere. Our driver Dennis professionalism is off the charts. Especially when we was driving through narrow streets of Italy. I would recommend this tour to others

Destinations

• Western Europe tours (6932)
• Mediterranean tours (4773)
• Central Europe tours (2376)
• Balkans tours (2306)
• UK and Great Britain tours (743)
• Nordic / Scandinavia tours (614)
• Eastern Europe tours (501)
• Baltic tours (174)
• Italy tours (1200)
• Greece tours (878)
• Turkey tours (667)
• Germany tours (658)
• France tours (615)
• Spain tours (566)
• Croatia tours (401)
• Portugal tours (324)
• Iceland tours (272)
• Austria tours (260)
• Ireland tours (257)
• Romania tours (203)
• Scotland tours (186)
• England tours (164)
• Albania tours (135)
• Norway tours (116)
• Finland tours (99)
• Switzerland tours (95)
• Slovenia tours (90)
• Bosnia tours (81)
• Netherlands tours (69)
• Poland tours (56)
• Czech Republic tours (54)
• Bulgaria tours (47)
• Sweden tours (42)
• Montenegro tours (27)
• Serbia tours (23)
• Malta tours (23)
• Slovakia tours (21)
• Moldova tours (15)
• Svalbard tours (15)
• Hungary tours (15)
• Macedonia tours (14)
• Estonia tours (12)
• Wales tours (10)
• Northern Ireland tours (10)
• Denmark tours (10)
• Lithuania tours (9)
• Belgium tours (9)
• Latvia tours (6)

Travel Styles

• Small Group (3002)
• Budget (1145)
• Luxury (1396)
• Singles and Solo (8848)
• For Couples (4729)
• Young Adults (433)
• Seniors (5187)
• Group (7862)
• Fully Guided (6793)
• Family (6131)
• Explorer (5728)
• Personalized (3259)
• In-depth Cultural (2818)
• Private (2067)
• River Cruise (1624)
• Partially Guided (1553)
• Self-Guided (1530)
• Coach / Bus (1191)
• Bicycle (872)
• Hiking & Trekking (789)
• Active (705)
• Sailing (351)
• Intl. Flights Included (245)
• Custom (183)
• Food & Culinary (161)
• Self Drive (155)
• Ocean Cruise (139)
• Train & Rail (113)
• Northern Lights (96)
• Festival & Events (57)
• Romantic (25)
• Educational (18)
• Honeymoon (18)
• Health, Spa & Wellness (17)
• Gay Travel (7)
• Jeep & 4WD (6)
• Hop On/Off (5)
• 3 Day Tours (580)
• 7 Day Tours (2820)
• 10 Day Tours (4160)
• 2 Week Tours (1496)
• 3 Week Tours (960)
• 4 Week Tours (189)
• 1 Month+ Tours (52)
• Spring 2024 (5086)
• Summer 2024 (7838)
• Fall / Autumn 2024 (8004)
• Winter 2024 / 2025 (3071)
• Spring 2025 (3991)
• Summer 2025 (3021)
• Fall / Autumn 2025 (2969)
• Winter 2025 / 2026 (1087)
• May 2024 (6010)
• June 2024 (7085)
• July 2024 (6870)
• August 2024 (7026)
• September 2024 (7365)
• October 2024 (6432)
• November 2024 (3348)
• December 2024 (2838)
• January 2025 (1939)
• February 2025 (1956)
• March 2025 (2483)
• April 2025 (2584)
• May 2025 (2876)
• June 2025 (2794)
• July 2025 (2680)
• August 2025 (2693)
• September 2025 (2724)
• October 2025 (2260)
• November 2025 (1279)
• December 2025 (1076)

Europe Tours starting in

• Starting in Athens (766)
• Starting in Istanbul (542)
• Starting in Rome (447)
• Starting in London (440)
• Starting in Amsterdam (330)
• Starting in Madrid (327)
• Starting in Paris (278)
• Starting in Budapest (258)
• Starting in Bucharest (239)
• Starting in Dublin (236)
• Best 3 Weeks Europe Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
• 10 Best Luxury River Cruises & Lines 2022
• Hiking in Europe in February
• Hiking in Europe in January
• Hiking in Europe in March
• Hiking in Europe in April
• Hiking in Europe in May
• Hiking in Europe in June
• Hiking in Europe in July
• Hiking in Europe in August
• Hiking in Europe in September
• Hiking in Europe in October
• Hiking in Europe in December

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Budget Travel » How to Travel Europe Cheaply: Get Around on a Budget in 2024

How to Travel Europe Cheaply: Get Around on a Budget in 2024

The most important step to becoming a badass broke budgeteer: learn the wicked ways of the low-cost lifestyle. Meaning, HOW exactly to travel on the cheap-o. 

And there’s no better way to get used to budget backpacking than learning how to travel Europe cheaply .

Europe is a great teacher in the ways of penny-pinching. Compared to other popular backpacker digs like Southeast Asia and South America, Europe is expensive as hell. You’re usually only one careless “treat yo’ self” away from backpacker bankruptcy. Everything has a cost: even using a public bathroom!

That means you have to be wise and wily with the way you spend your dollars.

Luckily, there are many ways to slash your astronomical Europe budget down to shreds and have a grand old time traipsing across the old continent, while spending relative pennies!

Transport is easily one of the biggest expenses on your trip. So, today I’m teaching you, dear young padawans, the ins and outs of travelling around Europe on the cheap.

On the cheap – and even, believe it or not, FOR FREE.

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

10 Ways to Get Around Europe on the Cheap

No money no problem.

Learning how to travel Europe on a budget comes down to a few tricks: cook your own food, stay in hostels or couchsurf, and take advantage of free things to do (each European country has heaps!).

However, when you’re trying not to break the bank, transportation may often be your Achilles’ heel, your downfall, and your sweetest enemy. Here are the best ways to travel Europe on a budget.

Do You Want to Travel FOREVER??

Pop your email in below to get a FREE copy of ‘How to Travel the World on $10 a Day!’.

1. Catch a Cheap Bus

Taking the bus is probably the cheapest way to travel around Europe. It’s easy to find budget options all over Europe – even for long distances.

One of the most popular options for cheap bus travel is Flixbus . It’s an operator so efficient, it is quickly swallowing up other smaller national low-cost bus operators all over Europe. 

Flixbus has probably the most extensive options: over 2,500 destinations across 35 countries (even Turkey!).

And my dude, just wait till you see their prices. They’re staggeringly low! I once took a 14-hour bus ride across the entire northern Spain to France for just $30.

Other great options are Eurolines (everywhere), Megabus (the UK), and Lux Express (the Baltics). Many countries also have their own low-cost buses mostly operating nationally, like Polskibus in Poland and Onnibus in Finland.

You can always find deals, but your best bet on dirt-cheap tickets is to book early. There is a limited amount of the cheapest discount tickets for each route.

Bonus tip: Take the word of a seasoned backpacker when I say that night buses SUCK. However, they save you a night’s accommodation cost. Plus, they make sure you’re not wasting precious daylight hours on travel time if you’re only travelling for a short time.

EDITOR’S NOTE!!!

Bookaway is another supreme service that we strongly recommend for booking routes and rides across Europe. HOWEVER, their service isn’t available in  all European nations. Your best bet is to check out both services, compare prices and services available, and choose the best (and cheapest) for you!

2. Get Railed with a Train Pass

Travel around Europe by train , also known as interrailing, is a super popular way of backpacking across Europe. 

Few other places have a similar opportunity for train travel. Europe has very extensive rail networks, and usually, its trains are clean, fast, and comfortable. (At least in Western Europe – who the hell knows what’s up with the Communist-era clunks clanking around post-Iron Curtain countries.)

In Western Europe though, rail travel gets EXPENSIVE. It’s not out of the question to have to splash $60 for a simple cross-country ticket. That’s why a lot of broke train travellers get a rail pass that lets them get serious discounts on their journeys.

Using a rail pass does come with a bit of planning. Usually, they’re restricted to a certain region or cluster of countries, and their prices depend on which countries you want to check out. (More expensive countries have more expensive rail passes.)

They also come with conditions. You can only have a certain amount of travel days within a time frame. (E.g. 10 travel days in two months.) That means that you can use the pass for unlimited free travel for 10 days over a period of two months.

Getting a rail pass is not worth it everywhere in Europe. If you mainly plan to hop to countries that are not covered by the rail pass, or that don’t have great rail networks, you can get by fine without one. 

Also when you’re adventuring somewhere like Eastern Europe and the Balkans, the few train options you have are already cheap. That might mean overspending by getting a pass.

However, if you plan to check out places like France, Germany, and Austria, a rail pass is a great addition to your Europe packing list . And it saves you a lot!

3. Catch Flights, Not Feelings

Listen, no other place does low-cost flying quite as well as Europe. The prices for low-budget airlines can be absolutely RIDICULOUS. Route prices start at around $8 – no kidding. When I still lived in Finland, a return flight between my city and London was half the price of a one-way train to my hometown!

So, low-cost airlines are definitely worth checking out if your plans include hopping between countries on different sides of Europe.

Some of the most popular low-budget airlines in Europe are:

There is an art to finding cheap flights . But you’ll get a hang of it quickly. My favourite sites for finding and comparing flight prices are Skyscanner and Momondo.

I highly recommend checking airlines’ own websites around holidays as well. Around Christmas and Black Friday, you can find huge discounts.

Sadly, there is no such thing as an almost-free lunch. Low-fare airlines make their money through extortionate extra fees. Everything costs – from meals onboard to even printing your boarding pass at the airport. Checked baggage can cost $30+, and some charge extra for “big” cabin luggage as well.

4. Share a Ride with a Merry Stranger

Travelling solo? So are many others! Cut costs and maybe make a friend on your intercity travels.

When you think of rideshare apps, you probably think of Uber. Taxi apps are dope for getting around cities in Europe on the cheap for sure.

Mostly getting a cab through an app is cheaper than on the street. Uber operates in many European countries, plus there are tons of smaller operators in different countries and regions.

So, rideshare apps are cool beans in cities. What about between cities? 

Europe also has platforms that allow private people to publicly post their upcoming trips. They post that they’re going to Marseille, you get in touch, and ka-ching ! You’ve got a cheap-ass ride to another town. Note that this is not digital hitchhiking; you’ll have to split travel costs with the driver and other passengers.

The absolute best platform for long-distance rideshares is BlaBlaCar . I found it the best cheap way to travel around Spain and France, but it’s also available in 16 other countries in Europe. BlaBlaCar doesn’t actually have any of its own cars; it’s just a platform connecting drivers and passengers.

If BlaBlaCar doesn’t tickle your fancy, it’s always possible to find rideshares and carpooling through other ways as well. Try posting a note on your hostel’s info board, or find a rideshare group on Facebook for the country that you’re in.

5. Go Drive Yourself

Living the vanlife in Europe is many backpackers’ dream. And it can easily be one of the cheapest ways to travel Europe if you’re exploring countries like Switzerland or Norway.

My motorbike-loving friends won’t stop raving about how great it is to ride your bike down the wide-open highways across Europe. (Somewhere in the distance, Born to Be Wild starts playing…)

Plus, driving yourself gives you the greatest flexibility to stop at cute roadside towns. You can come and go as you please without being held behind by such measly human inventions as – pssht – bus schedules. Bonus points if you camp along the way to cut costs even more.

If you’re planning on a self-directed adventure, there are a few things to consider before launching off:

• You’ll either need an international driver’s licence or an EU licence
• Taking rental cars over the country border is usually not allowed . So they’re best for single-country stretches. You also have to return them to the same office where you picked them up or pay an abysmal extra fee.
• Toll fees stack up! Set up your GPS to avoid toll roads. (But make sure that it doesn’t direct you to completely stupid roads – speaking from experience…)

In the end, you might do campervanning or motorbiking more for the experience than the price. You’re not only paying for the car; petrol, parking, and insurance fees rack up.

While rentals can be very cheap, they can also be very, very expensive. $20 a day in Greece is not too bad if you can split that with a travel buddy. But paying $50 a day in Madeira by yourself is gonna make even the toughest traveller cry bitter tears. So if you’re gonna live the vanlife across Europe, find a smart purchase or rental (not cheap – cheap cars don’t last), and get good at the van-bum life: it’s a good life. 🙂

6. Thumbs up, Everybody

You might’ve thought you dreamed it but there IS a legit way to travel Europe for free. That way is called hitchhiking ! Is this the cheapest way to see Europe? Potentially definitely.

Hitchhiking has long been one of my favourite ways of adventuring. And the scene is especially boomin’ and bloomin’ in Europe.

It’s not for everybody: you gotta be at least a bit of a social butterfly to keep your gracious rides entertained with small talk (and big talk, if it comes to that). 

This becomes especially fun when you don’t speak the same language. But let me tell you, it’s surprising how much you can find out about someone’s family, hobbies, and life just through a few universal words and body language.

And sure, hitchhiking is not completely without its risks, either. I’ve done lots of kilometres in strangers’ cars as a solo female traveller . While 95% of the people who pick you up are just simply kind human beans, I’ve had a few creepy encounters as well.

The best countries to pick up lifts are in Central and Eastern Europe. The worst luck I’ve ever had has been in Spain and Germany – basically Western countries with a lot of motorways that are unsuitable for stopping for thumb-riders.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

7. Compare, Compare, Compare!

No one ever said budget travel in Europe was easy. Counting pennies comes with a lot of time spent crouching over your phone screen, figuring out the routes that are going to save you the maximum amount of time and money. Trip planning takes effort.

Sometimes booking through the airline’s or railway’s own website is the cheapest option; sometimes the best deals are found on third-party websites. Occasionally, a train can actually be a lot cheaper than a bus.

Sometimes – and this is a secret most hardcore shoestring sailors won’t tell you – it’s just simply better to choose the more expensive option, for the sake of pure convenience and your sanity.

Rome2Rio is a great planning tool when you’re trying to find routes from city to city and can give you approximate prices on both buses and trains. But you have to book tickets on the sites of the operators themselves. Omio (former GoEuro) shows you comparisons between train, bus, and air travel, but doesn’t actually show all available tickets from low-cost operators.

8. Take a Hike, Buddy

When you’re thinking about how to travel around Europe cheaply, long-distance hiking is actually a very viable option. If you can find a free camping spot, all you end up paying for is your food.

Obviously, it’s hard to cover long distances on foot. It IS slow as hell, but it is one of the most rewarding ways to travel I’ve ever tried.

Europe is a hikers’ wonderland. Long, well-established trails can be found almost in all countries, and many long-distance trails stretch over borders as well. Long-distance hiking might be an option for you if you’re already reasonably fit, you’re prepped for hiking abroad , and can carry all your stuff in one bag.

I’ve walked the famous Camino de Santiago across Northern Spain. While it did take over a month, it was a fantastic way to get a more detailed look into the life on the Spanish Northern Coast.

I’ve also hiked long stretches of Via Dinarica, a long-distance hiking trail going from Slovenia to Kosovo, and can vouch for it being one of the BEST ways to experience the Balkans .

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

9. Wheels Away

Are you a fan of the Queen song Bicycle Race? Then you’re probably a biking enthusiast.

Travelling long distances on a bicycle, AKA bikepacking, is becoming more and more popular in Europe. In general, Europeans LOVE biking which means that most cities are pretty bicycle-friendly.

Covering large-ish distances on a bike is not a superhuman feat either. You’ll likely encounter other adventurous cyclists around Europe too.

Some of the best destinations for bikepackers in Europe include Denmark, the Netherlands, France, and the UK. You can combine your biking adventures with camping to cut costs even more. Just make sure all your stuff fits in the bike bags, that you have a good bike for long-distance biking , and that you bring heaps of happy vibes with you.

10. Travel Eastern Europe

Okay, technically this isn’t a method of getting around… But it is possible to travel around Europe really damn cheaply if you head to the right side of the map. I’m talking about backpacking Eastern Europe , of course.

Most first-time backpackers head to Europe’s most touristed capitals to see the Colosseums and Mona Lisas that they know so well from other people’s stories. Eastern Europe might not have as many famous attractions as the most popular destinations but it has a LOT going for it.

Delicious food, fairytale towns, lack of hordes of tourists, excellent mountainage, and fascinating history? Sign me the fuck up.

Oh yeah, it’s also super cheap to travel. In some of the cheapest countries in Europe like Bulgaria, North Macedonia, or Georgia, you can spend as little as $20 per day!

Lastly… Travel Insurance is Very Much Recommended

It might seem counterintuitive to spend more money to save money. But trust me, travel insurance is the one thing that’s going to save you HEAPS if you ever end up needing it.

A savvy budget traveller should always consider getting a good travel insurance policy before leaving home. Health care in Europe is not usually full-bankruptcy-expensive (looking at you, USA…) but you never know what can happen on your adventures. Hospitalised by dodgy booze? Fell out of your top bunk? Bitten by a manic street dog?

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Travelling Europe really doesn’t have to feel like highway robbery. When you get the basics of budget travel in Europe down, spending the most minimal amount of money possible becomes second nature!

One thing that’ll surprise you about pro-level budgeting is that it’s hard work. 

It takes a lot of time and effort to compare different route options and read through hostel reviews to make sure that booking cheap doesn’t mean that you’ll also book shitty. 

When you’re hitchhiking and couchsurfing, you have to always be socially ON. (An introvert’s nightmare that can even terrify some real social butterflies like myself.) If you start noticing symptoms of a traveller’s burnout – it’s time to take a break.

Even when you’re travelling Europe on a shoestring budget, I always recommend having what I like to call “the fuck-it fund”, for days when you just gotta say, “ fuck it, I’m booking into a hotel” . A few days of stress-free spending makes for one happy budget backpacker and means that you get to keep going at your low-cost adventures all refreshed.

Travelling on a budget in Europe is not always the easiest feat. But as you’ve seen now, there are a lot of infrastructures that helps heaps if you’re trying to watch your spending.

And the best part? Everyone else is on a budget too! Bonding over shared cheapskating is a truly unique way to make friends on the road.

So gather up your pennies, book a budget bus, and get travelling!

Elina Mattila

Share or save this post

i found it super hard to travel cheap in europe, everthing is just expensive 😀 i also start using this app ” ATM Fee saver” and i can highly recommend it to you! its briliant you will save some money on those ATM over there… check it out for further travels

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

The best things in life are free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy your city without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• North America
• South America
• South Pacific
• Los Angeles

Get us in your inbox

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

11 of the cheapest cities to visit in Europe on a budget

These are the cheapest places to visit in Europe, and we’ve included the cost of a pint

Travel is well and truly back, people. Covid testing for tourists is increasingly being scrapped across the board, and travellers are practically being ushered into the once-bustling cities of   Europe . But the thing is, lots of us are still strapped for cash after two years of uncertainty. 

The good news is this: there are   plenty  of interesting and affordable locations on the Continent that you can visit without breaking the bank. Plus, a load of them are off the beaten track, meaning you won’t have to fight your way through crowds to find the best bits. We found out the average price of an Airbnb in each place, and cross-referenced that with data from  financial comparison site  Finder  to work out where you can get a discount pint, too. From the ruin-filled city of Argos in   Greece   to the foodie-heaven of Graz in   Austria , here are 11 of the cheapest cities to visit in Europe.

RECOMMENDED:   The 16 best city breaks in Europe for 2022

An email you’ll actually love

Cheapest cities to visit in Europe

1.  Kraków, Poland

Festival vibes meet olde-worlde history in Kraków . We recommend packing in as many medieval sites as possible, and then getting stuck into a great night out. Try to plan your trip to coincide with one of the city’s many, many festivals, which range from the typical (think  Summer Jazz Festival  and the  Kraków Film Festival ) to the more obscure, like the International Soup Festival . Yum.

Average one-bed Airbnb: £59 ($77) Average pint: £2.15 ($2.82)

2.  Riga, Latvia

In Riga, it’s all about the art nouveau. The architecture is seriously beautiful, and there’s a huge, buzzy creative scene. Check out Putti , a modern gallery and events space, or Rīgas Birža for something more traditional. Looking for something less refined? The booze here is really cheap – so if you’re looking to let loose, head to the Old Town for all the most established bars. 

Average one-bed Airbnb: £49 ($64) Average pint: £2.76 ($3.66)

3.  Český Krumlov, Czech Republic

Český Krumlov is a lot like  Prague , but without the stag dos. Its labyrinthine, baroque streets all lead you, eventually, to the huge castle complex at the centre. It’s beautiful in summer, but for the really  picturesque views go in winter, when it’s blanketed in snow. Keep warm in one of the many cosy cafés, or try traditional food in one of the live music parlours. Not a rowdy bunch of blokes to be seen.  Average one-bed Airbnb: £76 ($99) Average pint: £1.44 ($1.89)

4.  Bucharest, Romania

Bucharest is great  if you’re looking for a good time. Don’t sleep on the nightlife, just make sure to avoid the overhyped bars near the centre and head for one of the sky bars instead. You can try (delicious, hearty) traditional food for bargain prices, too. Our reccomedation is the legendary Caru’ cu Bere  – order the grilled pork and a side of sauerkraut. Average one-bed Airbnb: £45 ($59) Average pint: £1.48 ($1.94)

5.  Belgrade, Serbia

Chaotic, gritty, packed and super cheap – Belgrade is anything but a quiet getaway location. Smokey dive bars and gig venues nestle in  old socialist architecture, competing for space in the once-desolate Savamala area, which is now home to a thriving culture scene. Head to Ada Ciganlija, a reclaimed island on the Sava river, if you’re looking to find a tiny, tranquil slice of nature.

Average one-bed Airbnb:  £39 ($51) Average pint: £1.53 ($2.01)

6.  Kaunas, Lithuania

Kaunas is going to be big this year. It’s one of the  European Capitals of Culture  for 2022, and an incredible 1,000 events are being planned to celebrate it. If you can’t make it to any of them, there are plenty of seriously impressive exhibition spaces open all year round, like the Mykolas Žilinskas Art Gallery . And if you want something a bit weirder, head to the seriously strange Devil’s Museum .  Average one-bed Airbnb: £58 ($76) Average pint: £2.90 ($3.81)

7.  Zagreb, Croatia

This city is made for walking – we recommend that you wander from the beautiful, sprawling main square to basically every sight. That’ll keep costs low, and your exposure to amazing sights high. If you do want to get your transport fix, though, jump on the funicular and head up the hill for unbeatable views. Or just hang out in one of the many, many cool cafés.

Average one-bed Airbnb: £51 ($66) Average pint: £1.82 ($2.39)

8.  Argos, Greece

Argos is one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world. Right in the heart of the Peloponnese, this is Greece as you imagine it: balmy  Mediterranean weather with archaelogical beauty sprawling as far as the eye can see. According to legend, it was literally ruled by the son of Zeus at one point, too. It’s largely off the tourist path too, so you can explore the ancient theatre ruins, the prehistoric castle and sixth-century BC Roman Agora in peace.

Average one-bed Airbnb: £38 ($49) Average pint: £3.66 ($4.80)

9.  Marsalforn, Malta

Head to this quaint fishing village  if you’re looking for a properly quiet break. Marshalforn isn’t a porthole-windows and artfully-placed-lobster-crate situation, it’s the real deal. The restaurants have lots of fresh fish and great ocean views, so we recommend you take a book, put on your sunglasses, and enjoy the sea breeze.

Average one-bed Airbnb: £57 ($74) Average pint: £2.09 ($2.74)

10.  Sofia, Bulgaria

Sofia is properly, properly gorgeous. The domed churches dotted around the city will be a guaranteed hit on your Insta, as will the elaborate mosques, Soviet statues and grand galleries. As most people overlook it in favour of Bulgaria’s ski slopes and coastline, you won’t feel crowded while you wander.  Average one-bed Airbnb: £46 ($60) Average pint: £1.37 ($1.80)

11.  Graz, Austria

Graz is one of Austria ’s unsung heroes. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site, as well as being annointed 2003's Capital of Culture and the 2008 City of Culinary Delights. For futuristic art, head to Kunsthaus Graz . The gallery is housed in a building known as the ‘friendly alien’ – you can’t miss its undulating, scaley form on the waterfront. 

Average one-bed Airbnb: £64 ($84) Average pint: £3.25 ($4.27)

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Advertising
• Time Out Market

BACKPACKING EUROPE: How to Plan Your Dream Euro Tour on a Budget

I’m writing this at four in the morning. Wrapped in a thick blanket and sipping a cup of tea, I have given up on catching some sleep tonight. I seem to have left my mind in Europe, unable to adjust. Every time I close my eyes, I am bombarded with an endless succession of wonderful memories from our Euro trip. I still can’t believe two months went by that quickly. It feels like it was just yesterday. It’s been a week but I still look at prices and count in euro. It’s been a week but it’s like I could still sense the sweet scent of truffle and waffles. Water tastes like beer. Or wine.

It’s been a week since we wrapped up our two-month backpacking journey around Europe, the first of three Euro trips that we’ve been planning for the next couple of years in an effort to visit all countries in Europe. On this leg, we visited 16 countries. It took careful, meticulous planning because we wanted to do as much as we could within the short time the embassy allowed.

As soon as we announced we were in Europe, our inbox was flooded with inquiries asking for more details. We promised to share our full itinerary and cost in a blog post. Well, ladies and gentlemen, this post is NOT it. Not yet. We’ll share the details of our entire two months in another post soon. In the meantime, we’ll tell you HOW we planned our trip and HOW you can plan yours, instead of simply posting our itinerary. Here are the reasons for that:

• We all have different dreams and tastes. There are items in our bucket list that may not be in yours. There are experiences we would love to try but you wouldn’t even dare.
• We all have different budget and time restrictions. We were allowed to stay in Europe by the German embassy for 60 days. Initially, we wanted to stay longer —- our original plan is 3 months! —- but our budget forced us to trim it down to just 2.
• If you have a bigger or smaller budget and your dream destinations vary greatly from ours, there really is no point in simply sharing our itinerary. Besides, planning a trip to Europe goes beyond simply building an itinerary. There are a lot of things to consider. The cost of living, climate, language, and the culture in general vary from country to country, which will all affect your preparation.

Anyway, here’s the method we took in order to successfully fulfill our dream European adventure, presented as a step-by-step guide!

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

1. Determine your budget.

First things first: How much is your budget?

Your budget will dictate how long you can stay in Europe, where you will be staying, and what places you can visit.

Let’s assume that you have a P135,000 budget for this trip.

  Immediately, let’s subtract P30,000 from your budget for your airfare. Trust me, you can find roundtrip fares for many major cities in Europe for less than P30,000 if you book in advance.

2. Determine WHEN you want to go.

The summer months of June-August are considered high season (peak season) in most parts of Europe. Because of the sunshiny skies, it is the most touristy time of the year. Hence, prices go up! If you’re on a budget, you might want to avoid this and consider the shoulder months of September-November instead.

But the weather isn’t the only thing you need to take into account. Is there any event you would like to experience but can only be enjoyed at certain times of the year? If you would like to experience Oktoberfest, go to Munich in mid-September (but expect the hotel and tour rates to skyrocket)! If you want to see the Northern Lights in the Nordic countries, visit between mid-September to mid-March but consider the moon’s brightness too for greater chances of seeing the aurora.

If you have events you MUST MUST MUST experience, use it as your starting point and work from there.

If you don’t have any, then you can be much more flexible.

3. List down all your must-visits !

Are there any destinations you’ve always dreamed of visiting? Is Paris something you can’t miss? Did you make a vow to attend the papal mass at the Vatican? Are you a big fan of the Sound of Music and you just NEED to see the locations in person?

For this exercise, let’s call them “must-visits.” These are your non-negotiables. Meaning, whatever happens, you HAVE TO make a stop at these cities. These are the reasons you’re traveling to Europe in the first place.

List them all down. Don’t edit it yet. It’s easy to travel within Europe, so just write them down and we’ll figure it out later.

For example, let’s say that here are your must-visits:

4. Find out lodging costs.

Cost of accommodations varies greatly from one city to another. For example, hotels in Prague are unbelievably cheap while Reykjavik seems like it wants your soul with your money. There are A LOT of cheap lodging options in Europe. It doesn’t always have to be a full-service hotel. There are no-frills hotels, hostels, dorms, and AirBnB options!

At this point, you should already know if you’re traveling alone or part of a group. This will affect your expenses and accommodation choices significantly.

• If you’re traveling alone and you’re concerned about the budget, consider booking dorm beds. It’s waaay cheaper than booking a private room. (Even single rooms can be pricey.) It’s also a great way to meet other travelers and make new friends.
• If you’re a pair, you may consider booking two dorm beds or a private room, depends on the situation. If you’re a duo wanting to meet people, the dorm is still a good choice. If you’re a couple on a romantic getaway or a honeymoon, my god, please get a private room (haha!). Note, though, that in many hostels, the bedrooms may be private but the toilet and bath are sometimes shared. Check the arrangement before booking.
• If you’re a group of three, know that Triple Rooms are not uncommon in Europe. You may also check their policy on extra person on Double/Twin rooms. It’s a great way to save!

Since by now you have an idea of your travel dates, it’s best to go to Booking.com and check hotel rates per night for your must-visit’s. (Why Booking.com? I’ll explain later below.)

DON’T BOOK YET . Just check the rates first. We’re only budgeting at this point and figuring out the allocations.

But to give you an idea, here are the price ranges for some key cities in Europe for a September-December stay.

CITY DORM (EUR Per Bed) DOUBLE/TWIN (EUR Per Room) Amsterdam 16-55 40+ Barcelona 10-45 44+ Copenhagen 25-30 56+ Florence 10-30 30+ Munich 14-30 51+ Paris 20-25 45+ Prague 5-10 18+ Reykjavik 30-60 79+ Rome 9-25 20+ Zurich 40-60 75+

Decide on how long you would want to stay at each of these stops. Let’s assume you’re staying at each of your must-visits for 5 days and 4 nights and you’re traveling with a friend. That means staying for a total of 12 nights in your must-visit cities, and dividing the room cost by 2.

Using our example above, the following will be your accommodations expenses:

CITY COST PER NIGHT (EUR) NO. OF NIGHTS TOTAL COST (EUR) Paris 55 4 220 Florence 50 4 200 Prague 30 4 120 TOTAL EUR 540 TOTAL PER PERSON EUR 270

That’s PHP 15,000 per person for 12 nights!

Again, these are just for the purpose of budgeting. You can find more affordable options. (AirBnB provides cheaper options!)

Okay, let’s do a recap: Airfare: P30,000 Hotels so far: P15,000 Total so far: P45,000

4. Plot your route.

It’s time to build our itinerary!

First, get a map of Europe and mark all your must-visits. In our case, we have marked Paris, Prague and Florence.

Then, look at the nearby areas. Are there any other places that you would want to see? Let’s call these “nice-to-have’s.” They’re not really your must-visit places, but it would be great if you get to see them too if your time and budget allow. If not, it’s okay too. Not the end of the world for you.

I highly recommend considering cities that are along the route connecting your must-visits. For example, if Amsterdam and Paris are in your must-visit list, you’ll find that Brussels (in Belgium) sits comfortably in between! If Copenhagen and Prague are your must-visits, know that Berlin is smack in the middle!

You may also consider going on a day tour to another city. If Vienna is a must-visit for you, it wouldn’t hurt to also check out Bratislava, Slovakia, or Budapest, Hungary. The beauty of this is that you don’t have your bulky, heavy luggage with you.

Let’s use our Paris-Prague-Florence example. To get to Florence from Prague by train, you might want to stop in Vienna, Munich or Zurich! Let’s stay that you spend 3 nights each in Munich and Zurich. And since you’re already in Florence, why not end the trip in Rome? Flights to Manila are cheaper from Rome because it’s a major hub.

Here’s our lodging cost so far:

CITY COST PER ROOM (EUR) NO. OF NIGHTS TOTAL COST (EUR) Paris 55 4 220 Prague 30 4 120 Munich 60 3 180 Zurich 75 3 225 Florence 50 4 200 Rome 35 4 140 TOTAL EUR 1085 TOTAL PER PERSON EUR 542.5

That’s P29,000 per person!

Time for another recap: Airfare: P30,000 Hotels so far: P29,000 Total cost so far: P59,000

5. Reserve hotel/hostel rooms.

If you’re happy with your itinerary, it’s time to reserve the rooms. RESERVE, don’t book yet.

This is why I highly recommend BOOKING.COM . They let you reserve rooms for a long time without charging you a cent. (Just choose properties that are marked with FREE CANCELLATION.) Remember, you don’t have a visa yet. This gives you the flexibility to cancel in case your application get denied or in case you change your mind.

During our trip, we made a number of changes to our itinerary and we were able to modify our bookings without additional cost.

When choosing accommodations, always check the location. You’ll be surprised that there are A LOT of affordable options that are in the city center! Of our 12 hotels on our Euro Trip, only one was far from all the action and that’s because we booked too late (Hello, Zurich!). It’s also wise to pick hotels near the train station.

6. Apply for a visa.

Okay, the hard part: getting a visa.

If you’re traveling within the Schengen Area, you will need a visa.

The Schengen Visa itself is a complicated animal. Let me explain: The Schengen Visa is a travel document that allows the holder to enter any of the 26 states that are part of the Schengen agreement. Think of it as an almost all-access pass to many countries in Europe, eliminating the immigration borders within the Schengen zone and the hassle of having to apply for a visa for each individual country. These are the countries who are part of the Schengen Zone:

But hold your horses. You can’t apply just anywhere. You need to figure out which embassy to lodge your application, and it will depend on the purpose of your trip or your overall European itinerary. The rule is, you should apply at the embassy of the country where you will stay the longest.

In our sample itinerary so far, we will be staying in Italy the longest. This requires you to apply at the Italian Embassy.

All good? Good.

But here’s the thing. The Italian Embassy, along with the Spanish Embassy, is notorious for being extra strict. In my travel circles, the Dutch and German Embassies are widely regarded as the most forgiving and most considerate.

Many applicants would deliberately modify their itineraries in order to stay longer in the Netherlands or Germany. Do I recommend that? Sure! They are beautiful countries! It’s up to you if you will follow the itinerary you submitted to the embassy or not, should it get approved. But my personal recommendation is to be honest to avoid any complications. If you’re applying at the French Embassy, stay the longest in France. Bear in mind that you will be interviewed during the application and they will know if you’re lying. Still, if you change your mind after you get the visa, no one’s stopping you from deviating from your itinerary a little bit.

More info about applying for a Schengen Visa below:

• via French Embassy
• via German Embassy
• via Greek Embassy
• via Italian Embassy

If you’re visiting countries outside Schengen zone, make sure you have the corresponding visa. Some countries will accept your Schengen visa as long as it allows you multiple entry. Always check with the embassy of that country.

If we stick to our sample itinerary and apply at the Italian Embassy, here are additional fees we need to take into account:

Visa fee : EUR 60 (PHP 3200) Service fee : EUR 26 (PHP 1400) Travel Insurance : EUR (PHP 1500)

Sub-total of all Visa Fees: P6,100

Time for another recap: Airfare: P30,000 Hotels so far: P29,000 Visa fees: P6,100 Total so far: 65,100

7. Book flights, trains, and hotels.

Once your visa is approved, book the flights and hotels that you had reserved!

You might also need to book additional flights. Traveling by air within Europe is cheaper than you think. You’ll find Paris-Rome flights for only P1000 (via Ryan Air), Paris-Barcelona for P1700 (via RyanAir), and Paris-Prague for only P3000 (Czech Airlines). You just need to book in advance.

Consider trains and buses too! In Europe, I prefer the train to the plane for many reasons. First, I don’t need to show up at least an hour before. Second, I don’t need to check in baggage and wait for pickup. Lastly, most main train stations are located at the heart of the city. All these saves me time, effort, and money.

In our sample itinerary, let’s assume that we’re flying from Paris to Prague and then take the train all the way to Rome, making stops along the way.

ROUTE MODE COST (EUR) Paris to Prague Plane 57 Prague to Munich Train 15 Munich to Zurich Train 39 Zurich to Florence Train 28 Florence to Rome Train 19

Subtotal of additional transportation expenses: 158 Euro or P8320

It’s also time to book some attractions and tours. I say SOME because you don’t need to book everything. Book only those that require advance booking like the Eiffel Tower, Vatican tickets, and food tours. For the others, you’ll most likely find cheaper tours when you get to that destination.

Time for another recap: Airfare: P30,000 Hotels so far: P29,000 Visa fees: P6,100 Transportation Expenses: P8320 Total so far: 65,100

8. Allocate money for food and tours.

Food and tours will take the biggest fraction of your budget. To keep our expenses low, what I do is follow this rule:

Keep daily FOOD expenses below EUR 20, and tour expenses below EUR 20.

That’s actually way above our actual cost per day, but it’s better to have a good allowance for possible overspending than to run short.

One of the first things we do when we arrive in the city is hit the supermarket and shop for food: bread, biscuits, fruits, and drinks. It’s so much cheaper than eating out. Your EUR10 here can last for days, even in expensive cities like Zurich, Copenhagen, and Reykjavik. In Paris, there are places where you can buy a whole chicken for EUR5! Yet, we still want to try traditional food! So here’s how we do it:

If you decide to splurge on dinner one day and spend more than EUR20, avoid eating out the next day.

The same applies to activities. The EUR20 per day budget should already include transportation (if any) and miscellaneous expenses (bottle of water, snacks, etc). If you really want to save up, you can skip the guided tours and just do it on your own. There are several city apps that have self-guided walking trails. You may also join FREE walking tours so you only have to worry about the tip.

BUT we like guided tours! It’s the best way to appreciate the sites we visit. We love hearing anecdotes and funny stories about places and important people that we would never have read online or in textbooks. So we follow the same rule:

If you decide to take a guided tour that costs more than EUR 20 one day, do a self-guided walking tour the next day.

This rule has kept us afloat during our stay while still enjoying the best of what the city has to offer.

Again, that’s EUR 20 (PHP1100) per day on food and EUR20 on tours.

So if you’re staying in Europe for 23 days, here’s how it looks: Airfare: P30,000 Hotels so far: P29,000 Visa fees: P6,100 Transportation Expenses: P8320 Food Expenses: P24,200 Tour Expenses: P24,200 TOTAL: P121,820

That gives you an additional P13,180 allowance to cover incidental expenses, city taxes (Rome and Florence) and others we might have missed.

So here’s our final sample itinerary:

DAY STOP ACTIVITY 0 En Route Manila to Paris 1 Paris Le Marais to Latin Quarter, Eiffel Tower 2 Paris Louvre 3 Paris Versailles (Self guided) 4 Paris Champs Elysees (Self-guided) 5 Prague En Route, Check in, Free Time 6 Prague Walking Tour (Self-guided) and River Cruise 7 Prague World War II & Communism Tour 8 Prague Choose another Tour 9 Munich En Route, Check in, Free Time 10 Munich Neuschwanstein Castle (Self-guided) 11 Munich Dachau Tour 12 Zurich En Route, Check In, Free time 13 Zurich Old Town Walking Tour (Self-guided) 14 Zurich Choose another tour 15 Florence En Route, Check in, Free Time 16 Florence Walking Tour (Self-guided), Museums 17 Florence Venice Day Tour 18 Florence Choose another tour 19 Rome En Route, Check in, Free Time 20 Rome Vatican Tours 21 Rome Ancient Rome + Colosseum Walking Tour 22 Rome Pasalubong! (If you have leftover cash) 23 En Route Back to Manila

This is just a sample itinerary to demonstrate the process I detailed above. You can use the same process to come up with your own itinerary based on your own requirements, needs, and restrictions.

More Tips for the Poor Traveler

• You can still reduce the cost significantly by pulling a DIY (self-guided) for tours and spending much less on food . But again, we love trying local food and learning from our guides and that’s what we recommend.
• Visit cheaper destinations . In general, Northern Europe is the most expensive while Eastern Europe is the cheapest. If you have a much smaller budget, head to the eastern side of the sub-continent!
• Download city apps . Like I said above, most key cities in Europe have an app that will help you explore the city more efficiently. These may be subway apps or walking trail apps.
• Hit the grocery at least once per stop . Eating out in Europe is expensive. The cheapest is to shop for supplies on your first day to cover breakfast and another meal. Eat out only once per day, at most.
• Get a credit card . You’ll be surprised that most transactions in many European cities are done via credit card, although cash is still accepted. Having a credit card not only allows you to do online transactions, it also gives you a backup in case you run short on cash.
• Avoid money changers . In our 2 months in Europe, we found that the best way to get local currency is by withdrawing from ATMs.

2️⃣0️⃣1️⃣6️⃣ • 1️⃣1️⃣ • 1️⃣8️⃣

More Tips on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️

Is this post helpful to you?

Related Posts:

• Borawan Beach and Dampalitan Island: Budget Travel Guide
• Danjugan Island, Negros Occidental: Budget Travel Guide
• SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA: Budget Travel Guide
• Coron and Busuanga: Budget Travel Guide
• LANGKAWI, MALAYSIA: Budget Travel Guide
• BANGKOK ON A BUDGET: Travel Guide
• THAILAND TRAVEL GUIDE with Multi-City ITINERARIES: 4, 6, 7, 12 Days
• 10 Tips for Full-Time Employees: How to Travel Cheaper and Wiser

• Recent Posts

• 2024 Resorts World One HONG KONG CRUISE Guide for First Timers - 13 April 2024
• FLIGHT RESERVATION for VISA • How to Get Dummy Ticket for Schengen, Canada, China and Other Visa Applications - 22 March 2024
• 2024 Cebu Pacific Promos & PISO SALE with List of Covered Destinations - 4 March 2024

Great tips! Planning a trip to Europe on a budget is doable, but you will have to plan much more. Even though, that’s the only way I could afford all the trips. ;)

Goooaaallss! Haaay its really my dream na makapag travel sa Europe haaay. How long bago po kayo nakapag save ng budget for your Euro trip Sirs?

Thank you for this guide! Time to make this Europe trip a reality! :)

Have fun planning! :)

Hi, i was wondering if you can recommend any prepaid sims just for data use when travelling around europe? Can 1 sim cover different euro countries?

Thank you for this info. Very helpful. Im planning to travel Amsterdam – Brussels – Luxembourg. Do you have tips on what to do in Luxembourg? I cant find that much travel blog about this country. Also hpw about the internet? Does Europe have pocket wifi rental service?

Thank your for this guide. May I regarding withdrawing money from ATMs, do you have any issue using debit card with 6-pin digits only? Thanks. :)

Hi Ivy, yung saken 6-digit pin. Wala naman ako naaalala na naging issue na pin-related.

Hello! Planning to go to Europe Next July 2019.. What is a good time to apply for a shengen visa?

3 months before.

Hi Yoshke Just new to your channel.Im planning to visit europe for 2 weeks.Can you suggest an itinerary for country Paris,Barcelona,Florence/Venice,Prague,We just want to see the major attractions And accommodation you can recommend.Restaurants/cafe. You’re video is a lot of help like us traveling first time in Europe.

Hi Jessica, your destinations are far apart so if you want to save on time (and money), you can just fly with a low cost airline. Regarding itinerary, where are you flying from? Do you already have an entry point/exit point?

For the accommodations, you may check out this post: https://www.thepoortraveler.net/2016/12/where-to-stay-cheap-in-europe-hotel-review/

Hey Yoshke,

I’m thinking if I should get Eurail passes. I know this is not the cheapest choice but can you recommend some train carriers that offer the cheapest rides like what you mentioned in the article?

Hi TJ, what country?

Same question. My main itinerary is France, Belgium, Amsterdam, Switzerland and Italy (Rome and Venice). Any suggestions regarding transport among these countries?

Hi Kb, Paris to Belgium and Amsterdam, Thalys is the most popular choice. It’s high speed and very comfortable, even the standard seats. If you’re going to Brussels, there is a low-cost train called Izy but I haven’t tried that.

Switzerland to Venice… where in Switzerland? If Zurich, there used to be a direct EuroCity train from Zurich to Venice. But I’m not sure if it’s still operational. Most of the journeys I find make a stop either in Milan or Munich. Travel time from Milan: 1h40; Fare from €9.90.

Venice to Rome, high speed trains take 3 hours and 45 minutes. It’s usually either Frecciargento or Frecciarossa (Trenitalia). Fares start at €19.90.

Hello, I just want to ask regarding your health insurance which one of the requirements in getting the schengen visa. May i know the details which company offers the cheapest? Thanks :)

Hi Dessa, I’m not sure which company offers the cheapest but I got mine from Pacific Cross.

Hi. When applying for a visa do you need to reserve tickets leaving and returning to Manila or all tickets (trains, buses, planes) when transferring to other countries covered by the Schengen Visa? We’re starting from Greece then our last stop will be Germany before going back to the Philippines.

Hi Carla, it depends on the specific embassy. At which embassy will you be lodging your application?

We’ll apply at the German Embassy. We’ll stay there the longest. Our route will be Manila-Athens-Rome-Paris-Berlin- Manila.

Hi Carla, based on my and my friend’s experience, di kami nagsubmit ng transfers. Wala namang naging problem. Di ko lang sure if okay lang sya in general or natapat lang kami sa medyo maluwag na nag-assess/interview.

Can you give me a list of budget airlines to Europe aside from scoot?

Hi K-anne, just use flight comparison websites/apps. The cheapest is not necessarily from a budget airline. When we traveled to Europe, the cheapest we found was offered by Qatar Airways! So be sure to check even full-service airlines because you’ll never know.

Hi! Thanks for this useful guide.

Your 250K budget, was that for one person for two months?

Yep, 1 person. But we were really on budget. We stayed in hostels and rarely ate out. :)

Thanks for the reply. =)

Hello, have you shared your itinerary for the 16 countries you visited? I’m sorry i cant find it in your site. You said you will share it soon But couldn’t find it.

No problem!

Hi.. maybi ask lng po kung pagkukuha ng visa need ba magpresent ng show money? Tska ung tinatawag na mga rootedness?thanks

Hi there! In applying for VISA, did you already book your roundtrip flights? I read somewhere that this is not recommended and I’m so paranoid because we already booked ours. Thank you!

Hi Maj, no, I applied for a visa first before booking the tickets. But I submitted flight reservations.

Hi Yoshke! I’ve always booked flights in advance whenever I traveled (because I always booked sale flights), and this might be the first time I will submit just a flight reservation as you recommended.

I’ll be touring Central Europe sometime in October 2019, entering through Berlin,. Do you have any ball park figure at how much the plane tickets would cost me (roundrip Manila-Berlin or Manila-Berlin and Budapest-Manila) if I book my plane ticket sometime in July (after I get the visa). I previously traveled across Italy and got my roundtrip tickets via Rome for about 490USD via Qatar Airways. I was just wondering how much more I may need to prepare if I will be booking just 3 months before the trip. Also, which airline would you recommend if I will be booking the flight in July. Thanks!

Better search na lang using Skyscanner for the latest rates. Medyo tricky kasi yung case mo kasi baka pumatak sa Oktoberfest yung flight mo. (I remember when I was planning my trip, nung nagtry ako magbook ng hotels in Germany during Oktoberfest, sobrang mahal. Not sure if ganun din ang flights.)

Thanks for the response. And oh no! Hahaha. Just hoping we get approved para di sayang tickets.

Hello Again.. You said Italian embassy is extra strict.. what do you mean by that? compared to other embassies. Do they ask for a lot of documents? Thanks in advance.

Hi Patrick, they have a high rejection rate.

Hi, This is very informative. I just checked Air France and their trip from NL to CDG is 7k cheaper than what have you posted. I’d like to pattern my tour with yours, + Amsterdam and the Netherlands (though still have to figure out if its possible). btw, what is your airline going back to Manila from Rome. Many thanks

Hi Arthur, the itinerary here is just a sample. In reality, our trip was much, much longer.

But our flight back to Manila was with Qatar Airways.

Opps. Amsterdam isin the Netherlands. my bad.

Thank you for this info. It would be very helpful for me. Maybe, you can also help me. I’m also planning 2-week trips to Europe. How much do you think I would spend all in? Thanks for the help.

Hi CJ, it’s very hard for me to estimate how much you will be spending because, as said in the article, it depends on your route (countries to be visited) and your travel style.

Hello do I need to book already train rides or flights? for example, from venice to paris via easy jet? bec. these websites does not allow cancellation of booking.

Depende sa kung anong embassy ka apply. Pero usually, nirerequire din un ng most embassies.

Hi Just a clarification, you said you went on a 2 month trip and spent 250k but im confused cause you also laid out on the itinerary that it was only a 23 days but already spent 125k How much was your budget for the whole 2 month trip really

Hi Alex, like I said, the itinerary and budget in this post are just samples, not the actual cost, just to show my planning process. The budget in this post is padded and rounded off.

In reality, I stayed in Europe for 2 months and spent only 250K.

Your post is really helpful. Planning to do a DIY trip too. Can you share your itinerary? What mode of transportation did you use the most from one country to another?

I’m a huge fan of you guys! I’m a solo female traveller and your site has really helped me a lot and kept me alive. I’m planning my first trip to Europe but I’m a little afraid because I’ll be so far from home. In north america at least i had some family but in Europe I really don’t know anyone. How do you get around from one tourist site to another? Did you encounter racism like people spitting on you and stuff?

Between cities, we traveled either by train or by plane (longer distances). But within a city, we usually either joined group tours or walked on our own.

We never experienced any form of racism during the trip. We were put on the spot because of the PH president many times but nothing race-motivated. :)

Thanks for your reply. Keep up the great work!

Hello po. May I ask if you’ve already shared your actual full itinerary and cost? Thank you po.

Anong tour company ang inavail mo while you’re in Eu. Thank you :)

Hi. Just wondering if saan pedeng makabili ng sim card?

Hi Nyvela, for local data SIM, usually sa mga telco branches/stores. For example, when we were in Italy, we went to a Vodafone branch. There are also SIM available on Klook but make sure there are pickup option in the airport where you will land.

Thanks for the informative post! I hope I can travel to Europe too!

Thank you for this. May I ask if your air ticket is round trip MNL-CDG-MNL? From your itenerary, you exit port is Rome. Thanks

Best if hindi roundtrip yung ticket. In our case, nung first time namin, MNL-CDG tapos FCO-MNL.

Hello Yoshke! Can you please share how much yung one way ticket price nyo on MNL-CDG and FCO-MNL? I would like to use this as a baseline.

Hi Kate, it was around P32,000 (Qatar Airways). We actually saw P28,000 tickets before but then the fare went up by the time the visa was released.

Thank you for the info y prompt response, Yosh. Regards

Hi! Is it okay to change plans and accommodations after getting the schengen visa?

Hi Katrina.

Yes, that’s fine. However, my only guidance is to have the proof that you will stay longer in the country that gave you your visa because you’ll never know when Immigration Officers will ask for it.

Okay, thank you!! So I can just cancel my accommodation bookings after getting thru the immigration office? Also, can I stay longer than planned? I asked for a 39-day single entry visa and I was given a 54-day multiple entry visa. So im planning of using up the extra days granted to me.

Hi Katrina, as far as I know, yes, as long as you don’t exceed the validity period and allowed length of stay.

By the way, which embassy? Kasi ang French Embassy minsan asks that you return to the embassy after the trip for verification. Pero most other embassies, wala paki.

My point of entry is Austria and point of exit is Czech Republic.

Austrian embassy. My only concern is the number of stay indicated in my visa is “39” pero they gave me a visa valid from March 15 to May 05. Am i supposed to be there lang talaga for 39 days within those dates given to me?

If the visa states that you are only allowed 39 DAYS, then you can only stay for 39 days even if the visa is still within the validity period.

Thank you so much for this love. However, i have one q. are you using an ATM of a philippine bank> and which one is it?

Hi I would like to ask what Credit card are being accepted there?

Question po, if i will be granted a visa thru german embassy, but my point of entry is France,will i havr a problem in the immigration? Will stay longer in germany and exit point too.

Happened to me once. I applied via German Embassy but I entered via Paris CDG Airport. Didn’t have any problem. My first trip, I had a French Schengen Via, I entered via Amsterdam. No issues. My last trip, had an Italian visa, entered via Athens. No issues. Actually, out of my Euro trips, once lang nagmatch ung entry point and ung visa provider. Afaik, yung longest stay talaga ang nagma-matter, not the point of entry.

Hi. Im just wondering if your airline ticket as advertised was from CDO to Paris, Paris to CDO? What if your flying back to CDO from other country different from your 1st destination country? is P30K RT ticket possible?

Hi Jonah, not sure about CDO. We only checked flights from Manila when we booked.

Hello po, yun flight example nyo po sa taas round trip po yun?

Thank you for your blog and your guides. Very helpful. Just a question, hope you can help. We applied for Schengen Visa in Switzerland Embassy here in Manila. Since it will not be the last country in Europe I will visit, is it okay to start in France and end in Rome? Switzerland in the middle of the trip?

Hi Deng! I think so po. 3 out of the 4 Euro backpacking trips po namin so far, nasa gitna ng itinerary yung country that granted us the visa. :)

Hello anong company po Schengen insurance nyo?

Hi Yoshke! May I ask if you used a Eurail pass during your EU trip? If yes, is it worth it?

On my second Euro trip, yes, we used a Eurail pass. It was worth it because we had an extremely hectic itinerary then and we really used trains a lot. But on our 3rd and 4th tours, our itinerary didn’t really call for a pass. I guess it really depends on your iti and the time of the year of your trip.

Saan po kayo nagbobook ng flights pa-Europe na Hindi need magbayad while Wala pang visa approval?

Sa travel agencies po.

Featured On

We heard you!

Your comment is now queued for moderation! We’ll try to get back to you soonest. While waiting, follow us on these channels.

Subscribe on Youtube! Follow us on Instagram!

We've detected unusual activity from your computer network

To continue, please click the box below to let us know you're not a robot.

Why did this happen?

Please make sure your browser supports JavaScript and cookies and that you are not blocking them from loading. For more information you can review our Terms of Service and Cookie Policy .

For inquiries related to this message please contact our support team and provide the reference ID below.

Wealth of Geek$

Affordable European Travel: Destinations for the Perfect Honeymoon on a Budget

Posted: October 24, 2023 | Last updated: October 24, 2023

Despite the uptick in travel costs, it’s possible to go on a European honeymoon without breaking the bank. With the Euro and the U.S. dollar hovering around parity and new low-cost airlines making it easier to get over the pond, couples can plan the honeymoon of their dreams even with a more limited budget.

If you’re interested in ideas for an affordable yet unforgettable European honeymoon, we have some information you won’t want to miss.

Flying To European Destinations Can Be Affordable

By saving money on flights, newlyweds can say “I do” to a honeymoon in Europe. Low-cost Icelandic airline PLAY offers cheap flights and no-frills service to romantic destinations such as Paris, Barcelona, and London. Their paradigm is that by paying less, you can play more. Their New York Stewart, Boston, and D.C. flights connect through Iceland to many different destinations in Europe. PLAY frequently runs offers from the United States to Europe so you can snag more a more affordable flight and save some cash for your getaway.

If you plan a honeymoon in the shoulder or off-season, you can also score more affordable flights on traditional airline carriers.

Milan is the place to be if you want a less touristy city. It is the architecture, food, and fashion capital of Italy.

Milan is one of the cheapest countries to fly to in Europe. There are numerous flights from JFK via American, Delta, and Alitalia. The best time of the year to score a cheap flight will be January and February.

2. Copenhagen

A city full of canals, impressive churches, and Danish food, Copenhagen competes with Helsinki as one of the happiest cities in the world. Copenhagen offers stunning Danish cuisine, beautiful churches, and museums.

With round-trip flights to Copenhagen ranging from $300 to $ 850, you can save extra cash to keep your wallet happy and indulge in Danish culture.

London is one of the top tourist destinations in Europe, offering a wide range of hotels and price points. Use the extra cash to explore attractions such as Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, and the Greenwich walking tour. Or enjoy a romantic evening observing the city from The London Eye, one of the world’s tallest Ferris Wheels.

Rome is a city like no other, where emperors ruled and gladiators fought. As a major European city, it hosts a hub for ITA Airways and Vueling Airlines, with cheap flight options to the rest of Europe.

Round-trip flights can range from $345 to 850 from many of the major cities in North America.

Many people have talked about moving to Portugal, but you may be asking why. Lisbon sits in the most affordable country in Europe, boasting excellent weather and fantastic food, and it is close to many other European countries like France and Spain .

There’s only one way to know why everyone you know has just returned or is planning a trip to Portugal!

6. Amsterdam

Amsterdam features 16th-century architecture, romantic canals, museums, and even the Stroop Waffle. Amsterdam has the third busiest airport in the world, with direct flights from 19 U.S. cities, making it a great entry point into Europe. With round-trip flights ranging from $300-900, it’s possible to find one within your budget.

Paris is an iconic Europe destination that screams expensive. But it’s possible to book an affordable flight. Use the money you save on airfare to visit cafes, have a romantic dinner at one of the fine French cuisine restaurants, and tour any of the city’s finest sites like the Louvre, Versailles Palace, and the Eiffel Tower.

Madrid is full of world-class attractions, fantastic food, and plenty of soccer, all in one of the cheapest major cities in Europe. A round-trip ticket in the offseason to go to Madrid can range from $400 to $800. With the many airlines flying through Madrid, there are plenty of opportunities to find a great flight deal .

The home to the Guinness brewery, impressive castles, and excellent countryside, Dublin is a Medieval city with picturesque views and so much more. The round-trip tickets can go for as little as $400 to $500. 

10. Barcelona

Barcelona is one of the most beautiful European cities, with fantastic architecture, stunning beaches, and more great soccer. Catching a flight from NYC or Boston to Barcelona can be as cheap as a $300-700 round trip. With Iberia, Vueling, and LEVEL bringing about cheap fares, it is a perfect time to book that trip to Spain!

11. Reykavik

Looking for more adventures, then visit Iceland. Reykjavik can be the cheapest European city to fly to from North America, with PLAY offering some shockingly low fares.  You can see geysers in the Golden Circle, relax in the Blue Lagoon, and enjoy an adventure-packed trip for cheaper than you may think!

Oslo brings city life to nature. It is surrounded by forest hills perfect for hiking and a waterfront where people swim and kayak. Travelers can find affordable round-trip tickets from North America for as little as $550, helping to offset the high prices commonly found once you’re in Oslo.

13. Helsinki

Helsinki has become one of the cheapest European cities to fly into. Round-trip flights from NYC, Boston, and LAX can range from $600-800. Ranked as one of the happiest cities in the world, see for yourself what it is all about.

A city transforming into one with a fun night scene and a blossoming foodie scene, Zurich draws visitors from all over. Stroll the shops set amongst the scenery of the lake and snow-capped Alps mountains.

Even though Switzerland is an expensive country, there are cheap flights to be found. Flying on Swiss Airlines, you could find flights ranging from $540 to $700 round trip with other options available.

15. Frankfurt

A modern city full of glass, steel, museums, and shopping avenues, Frankfurt especially comes alive in December. With the third busiest airport in Europe, competition among the airlines has created lower fares for budget-conscious travelers.

16. Istanbul

Istanbul has it all; architecture, 2500 years of history, and cuisine from many lands. As a bustling metropolis, Istanbul invites people from far and wide to visit, admire, and enjoy the cultural melting pot. As the central hub of Turkish Airlines, the world’s largest fleet of airplanes, you can be connected to other destinations for a more extended honeymoon.

Warsaw may not be on everyone’s bucket list, but it should. This city has beautiful landmarks, incredible old town streets, active parks, and traditional Polish Cuisine. As one of the cheapest European cities to fly into, it will not break the bank to experience the extraordinary Polish epicenter.

A world-class city with history, museums, palaces, and so much more, Vienna has magic that is often overlooked.  It has been ranked the most livable city in the world, bringing many people through and acting as another cheaper entry point into Europe.

If you want history, architecture, food, and great beer, look no further than Prague . It is one of the most affordable cities in Europe, showing off its beauty with beautiful castles, fantastic 16th and 17th-century architecture, and unique beer at great prices.

20. Stockholm

Stockholm is where fashion, music, technology, and nature all exist in a destination that genuinely welcomes anyone. Stockholm is full of hip bars, dining, and luxury shopping close to nature, offering splendid views and hikes.  Stockholm is not on the cheap side of European cities, but more affordable flight options make a trip possible for a broader range of travelers.

21. Budapest

Known as the “Pearl of the Danube,” Budapest is an affordable, vibrant, and dynamic city. It comes with lively nightlife, great food, incredible architecture, and a rich history. The town is known as one of the cheapest cities in Europe.

Athens, Greece, is a city full of culture, historical landmarks, and Greek culture. Experience the picturesque town through neighborhoods like Plaka, with museums, taverns, and beautiful restaurants. Visit the marketplace, where Socrates and Plato would have great debates, and visit many ancient landmarks. Flying to Athens can be a cheap trip during off-season months if you can travel outside of summer, helping you save across the board.

More From Wealth of Geeks - Most Haunted Places in All 50 States

Most Haunted Places in All 50 States

More From Wealth of Geeks - Ten Fall Activities in Pigeon Forge, TN

More From Wealth of Geeks - Fall in New England: 11 of The Best Places To See Fall Leaves

Fall in New England: 11 of The Best Places To See Fall Leaves

More for You

Caitlin Clark at center of another awkward question before WNBA preseason debut

Mountain Dew has been banned in nearly 30 countries. Here's why, plus more American favorites that are illegal elsewhere.

Apple's first-ever foldable just tipped to launch next year — and it's a huge 20.3-inch hybrid

Video shows devastation after at least 10 tornados sweep Midwest

Dua Lipa Wore the Tallest Platforms We’ve Ever Seen to Perform in the Rain

25 Facts You Learned in School That Are No Longer True

The 11 Smells That Squirrels and Chipmunks Hate

I Asked 4 Chefs What Their Favorite Fast Food Cheeseburger Was and Their Pick Was Unanimous

NBA Playoffs: 10 winners and losers from Monday

New Orleans teens solve 2,000-year-old math problem

18 Things That Will Happen if 70 Becomes the New Retirement Age in the US

Netflix is removing all of these movies and TV shows this month

29 common human foods you may not realize are poisonous to your dog

45 Desserts from Around the World

Biden's Student Loan Forgiveness Rejected: 'Not Buying My Vote'

I Cut My Food Expenses In Half Using The Viral "6-To-1" Grocery Method — Here's How

‘A rude awakening’: Scarecrow laws threaten to make middle-aged Americans responsible for their parents’ medical bills — and long-term care costs are soaring

Timeless Beauty: 50 Iconic Women From Old Hollywood

What Happens to Your Body When You Eat Blueberries Every Day

How Reggie Bush Wound Up With A Returned Heisman Trophy and $25 Million In Net Worth