Before you pack your bags and set off to discover the wild landscapes and historic monuments of a European country, there are a few important details to sort out… Where should you go to maximise your experience? When is the best time for your trip to Europe? Do you have to be a backpacker to enjoy Europe the cheapest way? How long can you afford to get away? And, of course, how do you set the ideal budget to fully enjoy your trip without breaking the bank?
The good news is that Europe offers a wide range of options to satisfy all travel desires, whether you’re looking for architectural wonders, lively cities or hidden gems where the cost of living is more affordable. With a little planning and a few clever tips, you too can discover Europe’s treasures for less, where you can enjoy breathtaking scenery, visit historic monuments and immerse yourself in the local cultures that Europe has to offer, all without breaking the bank.
So where are you off to this summer?
Find out which country in Europe is cheapest to visit
With so many European countries offering enticing attractions, choosing your destination can be a challenge. Do you prefer to explore the historical monuments of Eastern Europe, the sun-kissed beaches of Greece or the wild landscapes of Croatia? Depending on your preferences, interests and budget, some countries offer budget travelers a more economical experience than others.
Here’s a general overview of the most affordable ways to explore the Old Continent without breaking the bank:
- Eastern Europe: Countries such as Hungary, Poland and the Czech Republic are not only rich in history and culture, but also offer excellent value for money. Their capitals offer affordable accommodation and a wide range of free or low-cost activities.
- Portugal and Spain: Portugal is often cited as one of the cheapest destinations in Western Europe. Cities such as Lisbon and Porto offer a rich cultural and gastronomic experience while being more economical than other major European cities. Similarly, some cities in Spain, such as Valencia, San Sebastian and Seville, are known for their reasonable prices. The cost of food, public transport and accommodation is still lower than in some of the more popular metropolitan areas.
- The Balkans: Countries such as Serbia, Albania, Bulgaria and North Macedonia offer stunning wild landscapes and beautiful beaches that make up Southern Europe. Croatia, while more expensive than the rest of the Balkans, is still affordable compared to Northern Europe.
- Greece: While some of the Greek Cyclades islands can be expensive during high season, mainland Greece remains an affordable option for travellers. Beyond Athens, exploring less touristy regions such as the Peloponnese or Thessaly can offer an authentic experience at a lower cost.
- Turkey: Although this destination requires a degree of caution depending on the region due to the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, the metropolis of Istanbul and the coastal resorts of Fethiye, Bodrum, Antalya and other Mediterranean shores are excellent options for a cheap, sun-drenched holiday in Europe.
Book your cheap flights to Europe as soon as you can
Your European travel journey starts long before you get on the plane, with the thrill of finding an incredible deal on your dream destination. International flights are generally the biggest expense on any trip, so it’s best to book as early as possible to get a better idea of what’s left in the budget.
Start by making a list of five to ten places that inspire you. Then become a real bargain hunter: subscribe to Transat’s newsletter and follow its social media accounts. This is where the best opportunities often arise, sometimes unexpectedly. If there’s a promotion for one of your listed destinations, don’t miss out! Book your cheap flights to Europe right away.
It’s the start of a trip you’ll remember for a long time!
Be flexible, it’s the best way to travel Europe for less
Choosing the right time to travel is key to scoring a great holiday at a great price. By avoiding peak season and opting for the off-season or “shoulder season,” you can dodge the crowds and save on flights and accommodations. For example, traveling in September instead of July offers the same beautiful Europe at a much lower cost.
If your schedule allows, skip the mid-June to August rush when prices soar and accommodations fill up fast. Instead, travel just before or after peak season for better rates and a more relaxed experience.
Our top tip: Research your destination’s off-season conditions to ensure a smooth trip without unexpected closures or bad weather.
Plan your itinerary accordingly
A well-planned itinerary is the key to a successful and economical trip. By planning your days in advance, you’ll ensure that you don’t miss any of the attractions that interest you, while also getting the best deals. Many tourist sites offer discounts to travellers who book online.
For example, did you know that you can save 20% on admission to the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin if you buy your ticket in advance?
Planning your itinerary doesn’t mean timing everything to the minute (unless that relaxes you!), it simply means making sure your holiday goes off without a hitch.
Have a flexible approach as to how to visit Europe on a budget and get the best rates for your trip
Travelling on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing the pleasures of travel. It’s about making smart choices. Want to dine at your favourite restaurant in Rome? Offset the higher cost by eating more modestly on other days, or buying fresh produce at a local market for an impromptu picnic. Many restaurants also offer affordable lunch menus, a great way to treat yourself without breaking the bank.
If you love museums, check out their special offers: many offer free or discounted evening admission. Plan your visits accordingly to maximise your savings.
Choose your accommodation wisely
Choosing budget accommodation is crucial to making the most of your stay without breaking the bank! Europe offers a wide range of affordable accommodation options, from friendly hostels to rental apartments, guest houses and budget hotels.
Hostels, for example, are ideal for solo travellers or budget-conscious duos, offering fully-equipped dormitories or private rooms at very reasonable prices, while encouraging interaction with other travellers.
Apartment rentals can also be an economical solution, especially if you’re travelling with a group or family, allowing you to cook your own meals and save on restaurant costs. Just be aware of administration and cleaning fees, which can quickly add up.
Finally, don’t overlook 2 or 3 star hotels, which can offer quality services at reasonable prices, especially outside of major cities or during low season. They’re an interesting alternatives to hostels for budget-friendly travel.
Enjoy some of the world’s most iconic landmarks for free while travelling in Europe
To offset the cost of an expensive castle visit or guided tour, why not spend a few days exploring the free treasures of your destination? The majority of Europe is filled with urban parks, iconic attractions, and historic neighbourhoods… free activities abound and often offer an authentic insight into the local culture. Some cities even offer free guided walking tours, with only a small fee or tip for the guide.
Alternatively, there are plenty of iconic places and experiences to explore completely free of charge in some of Europe’s most beautiful cities:
- Visit the British Museum in London
- Climb to the top of St Peter’s in the Vatican
- Take a stroll through the Luxembourg Gardens in Paris
- Watch the sun set from Piazzale Michelangelo
- Conquer Arthur’s Seat overlooking Edinburgh
- Read the tiles of the Plaza de España in Seville
- Admire the medieval buildings of Rouen
- Order a drink and get a small plate of aperitifs for free in Milan
- Listen to traditional Irish music on the terrace of a pub in Galway
- Wander through comic-strip murals in Brussels
- Attend a free classical music concert at the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam on Wednesday afternoons between September and June
- Climb to the top of the Reichstag in Berlin
- Climb Filopappou Hill for panoramic views of Athens and the Acropolis
Remember, you don’t need to spend a fortune every time you travel to discover the true essence of a place.
