How to Travel Europe Cheaply: Insider Tips and Tricks

By AirTrackBot • Posted Dec 02, 2024

Michelangeloop/Adobe Stock

Is traveling to Europe expensive? Not necessarily. While Europe remains one of the most popular destinations for travelers worldwide — making some places genuinely pricey and overcrowded — careful planning and a few tricks can help you plan an affordable trip across the Old Continent.

In this article, we'll share practical advice and resources to help you explore Europe on the cheap. If you're dreaming of exploring multiple countries in Europe, it's easier and more affordable than you might expect. These insider tips will help you save money and make the most of your journey.

How to Travel Around Europe Cheaply

1. Choose Affordable Destinations

Europe has a reputation for being an expensive place to travel, and in many cases, that's true. Western European countries like France and Switzerland are known for high prices on accommodation, food, and entertainment. Similarly, expenses in Scandinavian countries can be significant, even for travelers with a carefully planned budget.

However, traveling through Europe on a budget is entirely possible if you focus on less expensive regions. Eastern and Southeastern European countries offer rich cultural experiences at significantly lower costs. For example:

  • Czech Republic: $25-40 per day
  • Croatia: $25-50 per day
  • Albania: $15-35 per day
  • Greece: $20-50 per day
  • Bulgaria: $20-40 per day
  • Romania: $20-30 per day
  • Hungary: $20-35 per day

Beyond major cities, consider exploring small towns and villages. For instance, in Albania, you can visit the beaches of Saranda, which rival Greece's in beauty but at a fraction of the cost. In Croatia, explore the island of Hvar or the picturesque villages near national parks. In Greece, look into the Peloponnese or the Menalon Trail for a budget-friendly getaway.

2. How to Fly to Europe Cheaply

Europe is one of the world's most popular tourist destinations, so numerous airlines fly here from North America and other continents. Thanks to high competition, airlines often lower prices, making flights to Europe more accessible. Here are some tips to help you find the cheapest way to get to Europe:

Compare Flight Prices

Use convenient flight search engines like Skyscanner, Kayak, or Google Flights to find the best deals on tickets. These services aggregate data from hundreds of airlines and online travel agencies, allowing you to quickly compare fares.

Monitor Flight Prices

Take advantage of price tracking features available on Skyscanner or Google Flights. They will notify you about changes in ticket prices, enabling you to purchase at the most advantageous time. For convenience, you can use AirTrack on Telegram, which instantly alerts you about price drops.

Book in Advance (the 21-Day Rule)

The best prices are usually available when purchasing tickets at least three weeks before departure. The optimal time to book international flights is 2-3 months before your trip.

These simple strategies will help you find the ideal flight to Europe at an affordable price and save money for adventures during your trip!

3. Avoid Peak Seasons

Traveling during the summer months (June-August) or holidays like Christmas and New Year significantly increases costs for tickets, accommodation, and services due to high demand. To save money, consider traveling in the off-season — spring (March-May) or fall (September-November) — when the weather remains pleasant, tourists are fewer, and prices are 20-50% lower. The winter period (excluding holidays) also offers cheaper tickets and a more peaceful experience, allowing you to enjoy sights without crowds and with a nice saving.

4. Use Budget Airlines for City-Hopping Across Europe

Europe has an extensive network of low-cost airlines like Ryanair, Wizz Air, easyJet, and Vueling, offering very low fares. However, to travel cheaply, consider a few factors:

  • Airport Locations: Budget carriers often use airports located far from the city center, increasing time and transfer costs.
  • Book in Advance: The best fares are available when booking 2-6 months before departure.
  • Travel with Carry-On Only: Avoid additional baggage fees by traveling with just carry-on luggage.
  • Consider Alternative Modes: If delays are possible or you have oversized luggage, consider other options like trains or buses.

These simple tips will help you make the most of budget airlines for traveling around Europe cheaply.

5. Use Other Transportation Options

Flying isn’t always the most convenient or cost-effective way to travel between European cities. Europe’s well-developed transportation network provides a variety of alternatives, such as trains, buses, or even ferries, which can often be more practical depending on the route.

For effective trip planning, use Rome2Rio. This tool provides information on all possible ways to get from point A to point B, including prices and times for different transport types: buses, trains, flights, and even car rentals.

To search and book tickets for a wide range of transport options, try Omio, which aggregates train, bus, and some flight schedules into one easy-to-use platform.

Check out local carriers' websites, which often offer great deals. For example, RegioJet is an excellent choice for traveling within the Czech Republic and neighboring countries, while FlixBus covers most of Europe and offers convenient routes.

FlixBus Routes Map: Source - FlixBus

Using alternative transportation methods not only reduces costs but also allows you to enjoy scenic views and unique routes.

6. Compare Accommodation Prices

The largest selection of accommodations in Europe is available on Booking.com, but it's not the only platform. Alternative online travel agencies (OTAs) like Agoda or Expedia often have lower prices for the same hotels. To find the best deal, use aggregators like HotelsCombined or Kayak, which compare offers from different platforms.

For budget travelers, Hostelworld is a great option to find inexpensive hostels with good conditions.

If you prefer more unique accommodations or plan a longer stay, consider Airbnb. When booking on Airbnb, consider additional charges: cleaning fees, extra guests, or service fees.

7. Renting a Car

Renting a car in Europe can seem attractive due to low base rates starting from $3 per day. However, you should consider additional expenses:

  • Fuel Costs: Fuel prices in Europe are significantly higher than in many other regions. As of November 2024, the average price per liter of gasoline in EU countries was approximately $1.50-1.80.
  • Insurance: Basic insurance, known as Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), is usually included in the rental fee. However, it may have a high deductible, meaning your financial responsibility in case of vehicle damage. To reduce risks, it's recommended to purchase additional insurance that lowers or eliminates the deductible.
  • Additional Fees: Rental companies may charge for extra services like GPS navigation, child seats, or an additional driver.

Therefore, while the base cost of renting a car may be low, the total expenses — including fuel, insurance, and extra fees — can make this option more expensive than it seems at first glance. Carefully evaluate all costs and compare them with alternative transportation options to choose the most economical way to get around.

Conclusion

Traveling through Europe doesn't have to be expensive. With careful planning, using budget airlines, alternative transportation modes, and price comparison platforms, you can significantly reduce expenses. Choosing affordable destinations, traveling in the off-season, and being attentive when booking accommodations will also help you save. The key is to stay flexible, open to new experiences, and ready to explore, as Europe offers countless unforgettable opportunities for travelers of any budget.

FAQ

How can I travel between European countries on a budget?

Take advantage of Europe’s well-developed transportation network with budget airlines like Ryanair, buses such as FlixBus, and regional trains. Platforms like Omio and Rome2Rio can help you compare options.

What’s the best way to save money while traveling across Europe?

Travel during the off-season (spring or autumn) to avoid peak prices, book flights and accommodations several months in advance, and prioritize affordable regions like Albania or Romania. Compare prices using services like Skyscanner for flights and HotelsCombined for accommodations to ensure you get the best deals.

Is it possible to visit multiple European countries without overspending?

Yes, focus on budget-friendly countries in Eastern and Southeastern Europe, use budget airlines for longer distances, and explore local transport options like buses and ferries.

How can I find cheap flights to Europe?

Use tools like Skyscanner and Google Flights, set up price alerts to track fare changes, and book tickets 2-3 months ahead. Opt for flights to less crowded airports during off-peak seasons for better deals.

Which European cities are the most affordable for budget travelers?

Some of the most affordable European cities for budget travelers include Sofia (Bulgaria), Bucharest (Romania), Budapest (Hungary), Krakow (Poland), and Riga (Latvia). These cities offer rich cultural experiences, historical landmarks, and budget-friendly prices for accommodation, food, and activities, making them ideal for travelers on a tight budget.

How do I save money on accommodations while traveling in Europe?

Compare hotel prices using aggregators like HotelsCombined or Kayak, which help you find the best deals across multiple platforms. For budget travelers, Hostelworld is a great option for affordable hostels, and Airbnb can be a good choice for unique stays or longer trips.

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