Europe is a prominent, fun place full of different people, tasty food, and cool things to see. Some folks think visiting places like Rome, Paris, or Greece costs a lot of money. But guess what? You can explore all these spots without spending a ton of cash!
In this guide, we will share some cool tricks on how to travel Europe on a budget. We’ve got tips on how to get there, where to stay, where to eat, and what to do without emptying your bank account. And hey, we’ll talk about the famous spots and some hidden gems in places like Albania, North Macedonia, and Poland.
So, are you ready to explore Europe, have a blast, and keep your wallet happy? Your ticket to a budget-friendly European adventure is right here. Let’s jump in and start this exciting journey!
Getting Started: How to Travel Europe on a Budget
Embarking on a European adventure doesn’t have to drain your wallet. With a bit of pre-planning and intelligent choices, you can explore the rich diversity of Europe even on a shoestring budget. Here are the key takeaways to kickstart your budget-friendly European trip:
- Choose Affordable Destinations:
- Opt for countries like Portugal, Hungary, and Poland that are more pocket-friendly than Switzerland or Iceland.
- Travel During Off-Peak Seasons:
- Dodge the high prices of peak seasons by travelling during the shoulder season or winter when flights and accommodations are generally cheaper.
- Book in Advance:
- Seal the deal on flights and accommodations early to snag the best prices.
- Be Flexible With Travel Dates:
- Steer clear of travelling during summer holidays and Christmas to avoid peak pricing.
- Set a Budget:
- A budget will keep your spending in check and ensure your financial limits are manageable.
- Look for Budget Accommodations:
- Explore hostels, Couchsurfing, camping, house-sitting, or Airbnb for affordable places to stay.
- Cook Your Own Meals:
- Buying ingredients from local markets and cooking meals can save you a lot.
- Savor Street Foods:
- Dive into the local culinary scene through street food, which is delicious and easy on the pocket.
- Opt for Free or Low-cost Activities:
- Revel in the free or budget-friendly attractions like museums, parks, churches, festivals, and cultural events to enrich your European experience without a hefty price tag.
Now that you’ve got the basics, Let’s dive into more detailed tips and insights on how to travel Europe on a budget. Your grand adventure awaits; let’s make it budget-friendly!
Transportation – Budget-Friendly Ways to Get Around Europe
Transportation can be one of the most significant expenses when travelling in Europe. Still, there are many ways to reduce these costs if you plan wisely.
Low-Cost Airlines: Budget airlines like Ryanair, EasyJet, Vueling, and Wizz Air offer cheap flights between European cities. Book early and be mindful of extra fees to get the best deals. Consider multi-city flight bookings to save money.
Overnight Trains: Overnight train travel is an efficient way to save on accommodation and transport. Many routes have sleeper cabins with bunk beds that can save on a night’s lodging. Look for rail passes and advance purchase discounts.
Intercity Coaches: Companies like FlixBus and BlaBlaBus operate extensive intercity coach networks in Europe, with fares starting as low as a few euros. The coaches have amenities like WiFi and power outlets.
Public Transportation: Europe’s cities have extensive public transit systems of metros, trams, buses and commuter trains. Get a rechargeable travel card for unlimited rides and discounts. Use transit to get around individual cities.
Car Sharing: Car sharing services like BlaBlaCar allow you to split costs with locals driving between cities. Read profiles, discuss terms, and follow safety precautions when ridesharing.
Hitchhiking: Hitchhiking can be an adventurous and free way to travel, but keep safety in mind. Check local laws. It is ideal for short distances between towns or cities along major routes.
By mixing and matching these budget-friendly transport options, you can put together an affordable Europe itinerary. Travel during off-peak periods, book early, and be flexible in your plans. Enjoy the journey across Europe on a budget!
Finding Affordable Places to Stay in Europe
Accommodation can take up a big chunk of your budget when travelling in Europe, but with some planning, you can find comfortable places to stay that won’t break the bank. Here are some budget-friendly options:
Hostels: Hostels offer shared rooms, making them a good choice for solo travellers and backpackers. If you prefer some privacy, many hostels offer private rooms too. Besides, they often organize social activities and provide shared kitchens where you can cook your own meals.
Couchsurfing: Couchsurfing connects travellers with locals willing to offer a place to stay for free. Make sure to communicate well, read profiles carefully, and follow the safety guidelines provided by the platform.
Camping: If you love nature, consider camping at official campgrounds across Europe. It’s a cheaper option and a unique experience, although with fewer amenities compared to hotels.
House Sitting: Some homeowners look for people to take care of their house and pets while they are away, allowing you to stay for free. Look for house-sitting opportunities on trusted websites.
Airbnb: Airbnb offers a range of options, from shared rooms to private apartments. Look for listings a bit further from the city centre to find more affordable rates.
Additional Tips:
- Booking your accommodation early, especially during the off-season, usually results in lower rates.
- Look for discounts available for students, seniors, or groups.
- Sometimes, a private hostel room can be a cheaper alternative to a hotel room.
Exploring these diverse accommodation options can help you save money, meet new people, and enjoy a more local experience during your European adventure.
Enjoying Europe’s Tastes: How to Eat Cheaply in Europe
Exploring new foods is a fun part of travelling and a great way to dive into Europe’s diverse cultures. But eating out, especially in big cities, can get pricey. Don’t worry, there are many budget-friendly ways to enjoy tasty foods in Europe. Here are some tips for saving money while still enjoying the local flavours:
Cook Your Own Meals: Cooking is an excellent way to save money. Buy fresh and cheap ingredients from local markets or discount stores and use the kitchen at your hostel, campsite, or Couchsurfing place to make your own meals. This way, you control what you eat and how much you spend. Plus, you can swap recipes with other travellers and enjoy meals together.
Visit Local Markets: Local markets are great for finding reasonably priced fresh, seasonal foods. They are usually cheaper than supermarkets and give you a taste of local life. You can chat with vendors, try a bit of haggling, and taste different foods. Most towns in Europe have markets on weekends or weekday mornings.
Try Street Food: Street food is a cheap and tasty option. European countries have street food favourites, like pizza in Italy, crepes in France, kebabs in Turkey, and waffles in Belgium. Exploring street food is a fun way to try many different foods without spending a lot.
Drink Tap Water and Affordable Wine: Drinking water is essential, but buying bottled water can add up. Fill a reusable bottle with tap water instead—it’s safe to drink in most places in Europe. If you like wine, you’re in luck. Europe has a lot of good, cheap wine. Look for deals at local wine shops and supermarkets, or enjoy a glass at a cosy bar while soaking up the local scene.
Free or Low-cost Things to Do in Europe
Europe is a treasure chest of experiences waiting to be discovered. Even on a tight budget, there are numerous activities to immerse yourself in as you travel Europe on a budget without spending much. Here are some budget-friendly options for travellers:
Museums: Museums are your gateway to exploring different European countries’ rich history, art, and culture. Many museums have affordable entry fees, with some offering free admission or discounts at certain times. For instance, visit the Louvre in Paris for free on the first Sunday of every month or the British Museum in London any day for free. Consider getting a European Museum Pass or a City Pass for discounted access to various city museums.
Parks: Parks offer fresh air and a chance to revel in Europe’s natural beauty. They are usually free and provide a range of activities like walking, cycling, or picnicking. Notable parks include Hyde Park in London, Tiergarten in Berlin, Retiro Park in Madrid, and Vondelpark in Amsterdam.
Churches: Beyond being places of worship, European churches are remarkable showcases of architectural and artistic grandeur. Entry is often free or requires a small donation. Don’t miss iconic churches like Notre Dame in Paris, St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, and St. Basil’s Cathedral in Moscow.
Festivals: Festivals are a vibrant display of Europe’s fun-loving spirit. Many festivals have free or low-cost entry, featuring music, dance, and food. Join the crowds at Oktoberfest in Munich, Carnival in Venice, La Tomatina in Valencia, or St. Patrick’s Day in Dublin for an unforgettable experience.
Cultural Events: Cultural events are a deep dive into each country’s local traditions and creativity, often at little to no cost. They feature performances, exhibitions, and more. Enjoy the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in Scotland, the Running of the Bulls in Pamplona, the Eurovision Song Contest across various locations, or the Shakespeare Festival in Stratford-upon-Avon.
Wrapping Up
We’ve journeyed through the bustling streets, serene parks, and mouth-watering eateries of Europe, all without splurging! Now, it’s your turn to pack your bags, lace up your walking shoes, and set out on your own budget-friendly European escapade. Remember, a grand adventure doesn’t demand a lavish budget!
But hey, the adventure continues. Craving more travel insights? Hop over to our post on Feel Nature’s Magic on the Roads Less Travelled to uncover some untouched beauties worldwide. Or, if you’re already dreaming about your next trip, check out Budget Travel: 10 Amazing Places to Visit in 2024 for some future travel inspo! Europe is a treasure trove waiting to be explored. So, go ahead, dive into its wonders and share your own budget travel stories. We’re here to fuel your wanderlust and help you discover Europe’s charm without a hefty price tag. Now off you go; the cobbled streets and cosy cafes await!
