Europe on a budget

Europe on a Budget: A Guide to Seeing More, Spending Less

Europe is one of those dream destinations that feels both exciting and a little intimidating, especially when you start thinking about the cost. But here’s the thing: exploring Europe doesn’t have to empty your wallet. With a little strategy and flexibility, you can experience the charm of Europe without constantly worrying about your bank account.

When I planned my first trip to Europe, I was overwhelmed by the options. Should I focus on one country or try to see multiple? How do I get from city to city without spending a fortune? Through trial and error, I’ve learned a few tricks to stretch your travel budget without sacrificing the experience.

1. Start With Flights and Plan Around Them

Flights are always my first step because they can set the tone (and the limits) for your trip. Once you know where you’ll land, it’s easier to build an itinerary that works.

Tools like Google Explore make this so much easier. You can search for flights to multiple European cities from your departure airport, helping you spot great deals. Once you’ve picked a starting point, consider booking a round-trip ticket into and out of the same city—it’s often cheaper—or find a deal on open-jaw flights, which let you fly into one city and leave from another. For more details on booking flights, visit our page on finding the best flights here.

2. Transportation: Think Trains, Buses, and Low-Cost Airlines

Europe is famous for its interconnected train network, and for good reason. Trains are scenic, efficient, and take you straight into city centers. Websites like Eurail and Trainline can help you plan routes, but always check for local deals in the country you’re visiting. If your itinerary is flexible, overnight trains can also double as accommodation. I think Eurail is the best option for budget traveling. For more information on the Eurail, visit our page here.

Buses are another great option—companies like FlixBus and BlaBlaCar offer affordable travel between cities and towns. And while I’m not the biggest fan of ultra-low-cost airlines (hello, Ryanair baggage fees), they’re hard to ignore when they can get you across Europe for less than a fancy dinner. Just be sure to read the fine print before booking.

3. Stay Smart: Finding the Right Accommodations

Accommodation doesn’t have to be expensive to be amazing. Europe offers a ton of variety, whether you’re into hostels, cozy guesthouses, or budget-friendly hotels.

For me, hostels are usually the way to go. They’re not just affordable; they’re social hubs where you can meet other travelers and pick up local tips. If hostels aren’t your style, check out Airbnb or smaller boutique hotels—sometimes they’re just as affordable as a hostel but with more privacy. For more information on finding the best accommodations, visit our page here.

And don’t underestimate the power of location. Staying in a city center might cost a little more upfront, but you’ll save on transportation and have easier access to the best sights.

4. Eat Like a Local (and Save)

Food is one of the best parts of traveling in Europe, and you don’t need to spend big to eat well. Local bakeries, street food markets, and casual eateries can deliver some of the most memorable meals of your trip. Don’t get fooled by all those influencers posting their fancy meals on vacation. I promise you can find even more authentic food for way less than they paid.

If you’re staying somewhere with a kitchen, hit up a local grocery store or market for fresh produce, cheese, and bread—it’s an affordable way to eat well and feel like a local. And if you’re splurging on a restaurant, go for lunch instead of dinner; many places offer cheaper set menus during the day. Keep in mind, you don’t have to eat the local cuisine every day. Save some money and have a good old fashioned sandwich for lunch.

5. Prioritize Experiences Over “Stuff”

When traveling, it’s easy to get caught up in buying souvenirs or upgrading your hotel just because it feels like a “treat.” But for me, the best memories of Europe have always come from experiences: wandering through a city’s historic streets, hiking in the Alps, or chatting with locals at a café.

Spend your money where it matters. Skip the tourist traps (you don’t need that overpriced Eiffel Tower keychain) and invest in activities that will stick with you long after the trip is over. I rarely regret spending money on experiences versus material items I can take back home to show off.

6. Embrace Free (or Nearly Free) Activities

Europe is full of incredible sights and experiences that don’t cost a dime. Many museums and attractions have free entry days, and iconic landmarks like parks, cathedrals, and historic neighborhoods are open to the public.

I always recommend doing a little research ahead of time to find free walking tours, which are great for getting your bearings in a new city. Just remember to tip your guide—they’ve earned it! Just about every town in Europe that has any bit of tourism has free walking tours.

7. Know When to Splurge

Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean saying “no” to everything. It’s about picking your moments. Maybe you’ve always dreamed of seeing a West End show in London or taking a gondola ride in Venice. Let yourself say yes to those experiences, but balance them out with savings elsewhere.

Why Budget Travel in Europe is Worth It

Traveling Europe on a budget isn’t about sacrifice—it’s about creativity and flexibility. Some of my favorite travel memories come from the unexpected: stumbling on a hidden gem of a café or chatting with locals while waiting for a train. Those moments remind me that the best parts of travel aren’t always the most expensive.

So, pack your bags, plan smart, and get ready to see Europe in a way that’s not just affordable but endlessly rewarding. The adventure is waiting—you just have to go find it.