Cheap Flight Strategies
Getting to and around Europe cheaply requires flexibility and strategy. Use "Everywhere" searches on Skyscanner or Google Flights Explore.
- Positioning Flights: Don't fly directly to your final, expensive destination. Fly into a major hub (London, Paris, Madrid) where transatlantic competition is high, then take a cheap regional flight to your actual destination.
- Budget Airlines: Carriers like Ryanair, easyJet, and Wizz Air offer incredibly cheap base fares. Warning: They charge for everything, including carry-on bags. Read the fine print and pack extremely light.
- Mistake Fares: Sign up for alerts from Going (formerly Scott's Cheap Flights) or Secret Flying to catch error pricing before airlines correct it.
Transportation: Eurail vs. FlixBus vs. BlaBlaCar
Trains are romantic, but not always the cheapest option.
- Eurail Pass: Best for extensive travel across multiple countries with flexible itineraries. However, high-speed trains (TGV, Eurostar) still require mandatory, expensive seat reservations.
- FlixBus & Regional Buses: The reigning champion of budget transport. Slower than trains, but a fraction of the cost. Overnight buses also save you a night's accommodation cost.
- BlaBlaCar (Ridesharing): Massive in Europe. You chip in for gas to ride in a local's car. It's often faster than a bus, cheaper than a train, and a great way to practice a language.
Budget Accommodation
Accommodation will be your biggest expense. Avoid hotels.
- Hostels: The standard for solo and budget travelers. Look for hostels with free breakfasts and communal kitchens to save on food.
- Couchsurfing: Stay with locals for free. It's an incredible cultural exchange, but requires effort in reading profiles and writing thoughtful requests.
- House Sitting: Platforms like TrustedHousesitters allow you to stay in homes for free in exchange for taking care of pets and plants. Perfect for slow travel.
Activities & Food on a Budget
Free Activities and Discounts
- Free Walking Tours: Available in almost every major city. They operate on tips.
- Museum Free Days: Many world-class museums (like the Louvre in Paris) have free entry on the first Sunday of the month or specific weekday evenings. Research ahead.
- Student/Youth Discounts: If you are under 26 or a student, bring an ISIC card (International Student Identity Card) for massive discounts on trains, museums, and attractions.
Eating Cheap
Grocery Shopping vs. Eating Out: Make lunch your main meal out (many restaurants offer cheap "menu del dia" or lunch specials). For dinner, hit local supermarkets (Lidl, Aldi, Carrefour) and cook in your hostel or have a picnic in a park.
The Cheapest Countries (Daily Budget Breakdowns)
To travel Europe cheaply, spend more time in the East and South.
The Balkans (Albania, Serbia, Bosnia)
$40 - $55 per day - Extremely affordable food and transport. Hostels under $15.
Eastern Europe (Poland, Romania, Hungary)
$50 - $70 per day - Great value. Hearty meals and affordable private rooms.
The Baltics (Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania)
$55 - $75 per day - Slightly pricier than the Balkans, but excellent bus networks.
Southern Europe (Portugal, Southern Spain, Greece)
$60 - $85 per day - Cheaper than the North. Stick to local tavernas and book buses early.
Western & Northern Europe
$80 - $120+ per day - Cook your own meals, use student discounts, and limit alcohol to stay on budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Eurail cheaper than flying in Europe?
Not always. Budget airlines like Ryanair can be cheaper for long distances, but factor in baggage fees and transit to the airport. Eurail is better for flexibility and scenic routes.
What are the cheapest countries to visit in Europe?
Eastern and Southern Europe offer the best value. Countries like Romania, Poland, Portugal, and the Baltic states (Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania) are incredibly budget-friendly compared to Western Europe.
How can I find cheap accommodation in Europe?
Hostels are the go-to for budget travelers. Alternatives include Couchsurfing for free stays with locals, or house sitting where you watch someone's home and pets in exchange for accommodation.
Are walking tours in Europe really free?
Yes, but they operate on a tip-based model. You pay what you feel the tour was worth at the end. It's a great way to orient yourself and get local tips on your first day.
How much should I budget per day in Europe?
In cheaper regions like the Balkans or Poland, $40-$60 USD per day is doable. In Western Europe (Paris, London), expect to need $80-$120+ per day even on a tight budget.