The Ultimate Guide to Budget Travel in Europe

A simple 10-day starter loop

If this is your first budget trip, keep the route tight. A loop reduces backtracking and makes transport cheaper and easier to book.

• Days 1-3: Prague - walkable center, affordable stays, great public transport
• Days 4-5: Vienna - museum day + evening food markets
• Days 6-7: Budapest - thermal baths and river walks
• Days 8-10: Krakow - old town, day trip to Wieliczka or Auschwitz

What it costs per day

Your daily cost depends on region and season. These are realistic ranges for budget travelers who want comfort without splurging.

• Central Europe (Prague, Budapest): EUR 45-65 per day
• Western Europe (Paris, Amsterdam): EUR 70-95 per day
• Southern Europe (Lisbon, Athens): EUR 55-75 per day

Transport that stays cheap

Use trains for 2-5 hour hops and buses for longer distances when prices spike. Book 2-3 months out for the best rail fares, and avoid Friday night departures.

Where to sleep without overpaying

Private rooms in hostels or small guesthouses often cost the same as mid-range hotels when you book early. For stays longer than 3 nights, ask for a direct rate by email.

Food that still feels local

• Eat your main meal at lunch when set menus are cheaper
• Pick one food market meal per day and one supermarket meal
• Skip drinks at dinner and grab a cafe drink later
• Look for bakeries near transit hubs for budget breakfasts

Booking rhythm that works

• Flights: 6-10 weeks before departure
• Trains: 8-12 weeks before for the lowest fares
• Hostels: 4-6 weeks before, earlier for summer
• Attractions: only if they sell out or require a timed slot

Mistakes to avoid on your first loop

• Adding too many cities and losing days to transit
• Booking the cheapest train time without checking arrival hours
• Eating every meal in tourist zones instead of local streets
• Skipping rest time and burning out by day five

Pack light to keep transport cheap

A carry-on backpack keeps you flexible on trains and buses and helps you avoid low-cost airline fees. Bring layers, one pair of comfortable walking shoes, and do laundry once mid-trip.