I always dreamed of seeing the historic streets of Europe and the snowy peaks of the Alps. However, the price tag often felt like a giant wall that I could not climb. People told me that a trip across the ocean would cost a fortune. But I decided to prove them wrong. I found that a Budget Europe Trip From India is actually possible if you have a smart plan. First of all, I had to change how I looked at travel. I stopped looking at expensive luxury hotels. Instead, I looked for the hidden gems of the East and Central regions.
Why I Chose a Budget Europe Trip From India
The continent of Europe is famous for its history and beauty. But many Indian travelers worry about the high costs. I realized that the secret is in choosing the right countries. You do not always have to visit London or Paris to see amazing things. On the contrary, countries like Slovakia, Albania, and Bulgaria offer more value for every Rupee. They have the same castles and cobblestone streets. Plus, the food and rooms are much cheaper.
Additionally, 2026 is a great year for us to visit. Flight options from cities like Delhi and Mumbai are expanding. I saw that Air India and Vistara offer better routes now. Therefore, I felt that this was the perfect time to start my journey. I wanted to see everything from the Baltic Sea to the Mediterranean coast.
My Big Financial Plan
First of all, I needed to know exactly how much money to save. A 2 week europe trip cost from india can vary a lot. If you choose mid-range hotels, you might spend between ₹2,00,000 and ₹2,70,000 per person. However, I found that you can go lower if you stay in hostels. For a shorter stay, 7 days europe tour packages from india usually cost between ₹1.5 lakh and ₹2.5 lakh.
Later, I looked at longer trips. A 21 days europe tour from india price can be around ₹2.38 lakh if you stay with friends or use budget hostels. If you want to go for a full month, 30 days europe tour packages from india price can reach higher numbers, but your daily cost often goes down. I budgeted around ₹3,000 to ₹5,000 per day for my food and local travel.
The Visa and Legal Steps
I knew I needed a Schengen Visa. This single visa lets you visit 29 different countries. The fee for adults is about ₹7,210.25 as of mid-2024. I also had to pay a service fee to VFS Global, which was around ₹1,500 to ₹2,500.
A very important rule is that you must have travel insurance. The embassy requires a policy that covers at least €30,000 in medical expenses. I found that Digit Insurance and Reliance General offer these plans for a low daily premium. Some plans start as low as ₹515 for four days.
Additionally, I learned about ETIAS. This is a new digital system starting in late 2026. It will cost about €7, which is roughly ₹630. It is not a visa, but a quick online approval that lasts for three years. I made sure my passport was valid for at least six months after my return date to avoid any trouble at the border.
My Favorite Budget Destinations
I spent a lot of time researching which countries would be kind to my wallet. Here are the places I found that offer the Best Budget Europe Trip From India.
Slovakia: The Land of Castles
I started in Slovakia because it is incredibly affordable. A week here can cost between ₹35,000 and ₹1,23,000. I loved visiting the Orava Castle and the city of Bratislava. The food is very cheap. I spent about ₹835 to ₹4,180 a day on meals. The mountains are beautiful. Truly a fairytale place.
Albania: The Hidden Mediterranean
Albania was a huge surprise. For a long time, it was closed to travelers, but now it is open and very cheap. A 7-day trip costs about ₹38,000 to ₹1,30,000. I enjoyed the beaches in Saranda and the history in Berat. Most importantly, the daily expenses are very low, around ₹3,000 to ₹5,000.
Bulgaria: The Black Sea Treasure
Bulgaria is one of the oldest countries in Europe. It is perfect for a budget traveler. I found that a week-long trip costs between ₹42,000 and ₹91,000. I spent my days exploring the ancient ruins of Sofia and the mountains of Vitosha. On top of that, the food is delicious and very affordable, costing about ₹1,420 per day.
Georgia: Nature at Its Best
Georgia is technically where Europe meets Asia. It is a paradise for hikers and history buffs. A week here costs around ₹45,000 to ₹90,000. I walked through the old streets of Tbilisi and saw the majestic Caucasus Mountains. Plus, Indians can often enter visa-free if they have a valid US or Schengen visa.
Romania: Home of Legends
Romania is famous for Transylvania and its castles. I found it very affordable. A week costs between ₹62,000 and ₹87,000. I visited Dracula’s Castle and the beautiful city of Bucharest. The trains are cheap and a great way to see the rolling hills.
Hungary: Thermal Baths and Beauty
I spent a few days in Budapest, and it was magical. The total cost for 7 days is about ₹69,000 to ₹1,22,000. I loved the thermal baths and the river cruises. Additionally, I ate local food like Goulash for very low prices.
The Czech Republic: Gothic Architecture
Prague is one of the most beautiful cities I have ever seen. A 7-day trip costs between ₹69,000 and ₹1,06,000. I walked across the Charles Bridge and explored the Prague Castle. Later, I realized that the local transport is very efficient and cheap, only about ₹810 per day.
Logistics: Flights and Trains
I searched for the best deals on flights early. I found that February and March are often the cheapest months to fly. A round-trip flight from India can cost between ₹40,000 and ₹80,000. I used apps like Skyscanner and Google Flights to track prices.
On top of that, I had to decide how to move between cities. For a longer trip, like a 21 day europe tour packages from india, the Eurail Pass is a great investment. It covers 33 countries and lets you jump on many trains without buying extra tickets. However, you often need to pay a small fee for seat reservations. For very cheap travel, I used FlixBus. I found tickets for as low as €5 for some routes.
Where to Stay on a Budget
I did not want to spend all my money on hotels. Therefore, I chose hostels and guesthouses. In Eastern Europe, a bed in a hostel can cost between ₹800 and ₹1,800 per night. I also looked into Couchsurfing. This platform lets you stay with locals for free. It is a great way to save money and learn about the culture. Finally, I tried staying in university dorms during the summer. Many colleges in cities like London or Madrid rent out rooms for under £40 a night.
Eating Like a Local
I learned that eating out for every meal is too expensive. I went to local supermarkets to buy groceries. Most hostels have kitchens where you can cook your own meals. This saved me a lot of money. When I did eat out, I looked for street food like Byrek in Albania or Lángos in Hungary. I avoided restaurants near famous landmarks because they always charge more.
How to Avoid Visa Rejection
I was very nervous about my visa. I learned that many Indians face rejection because of small mistakes. First of all, you must show strong ties to India. This means you must prove that you will come back. I showed my employment letter and my property papers.
Additionally, you must show that you have enough money. I provided bank statements for the last six months. I made sure my balance was stable. I did not make any sudden large deposits. I also wrote a clear Cover Letter that explained my daily plans and purpose of travel.
Another common reason for rejection is invalid insurance. I made sure my policy specifically mentioned the Schengen Area and had at least €30,000 coverage. I also carried a confirmed flight itinerary and proof of where I would stay every night.
Safety Tips for Mature Travelers
I wanted my trip to be safe as well as cheap. I kept my passport and money in a fanny pack under my clothes. I was careful at ATMs and watched out for people who might try to steal my bag in crowded places. Additionally, I always checked the prices on the menu before I ordered food to avoid being overcharged.
I also found that having a Forex card is better than carrying a lot of cash. These cards are prepaid and very safe to use in most cities. I also bought a local SIM card as soon as I landed. It cost me about €10 and gave me enough data for a month.
Different Itinerary Options
Depending on how much time you have, you can choose different packages.
- 7 days europe tour packages from india with flight: This is best for a quick getaway. You can focus on one or two cheap countries like the Czech Republic and Hungary.
- 15 days europe tour packages from india with flight: This allows you to see more of the “Imperial Belt.” You can visit Austria, Czechia, and Poland. A 15 days europe tour packages from india cost usually starts from ₹1.5 lakh.
- 21 days europe tour from india price: This is for the true explorer. You can see up to five or six countries if you use the Eurail pass. My 21-day trip was a life-changing experience.
Final Thoughts on My European Adventure
My trip was not just about seeing famous places. It was about proving that I could do it on a budget. I met amazing people in hostels and learned so much history. I realized that the Best Budget Europe Trip From India is about being smart with your choices.
You do not need to be a millionaire to see the world. You just need a good plan, the right insurance, and a heart ready for adventure. Europe is waiting for you. I hope my story inspires you to pack your bags and go.
I used my own savings and careful planning to make this happen. I recommend you do the same.
Important details to remember:
- Schengen Visa Fee: ₹7,210.25.
- Mandatory Medical Insurance: €30,000 coverage.
- Cheapest Flight Months: February and March.
- ETIAS Fee (Starting 2026): €7.
Europe is more accessible than ever for us. Whether you want to see the castles of Slovakia or the beaches of Albania, there is a path for you. Do not let the fear of costs stop you. Start your plan today!
I always dreamed of seeing the historic streets of Europe and the snowy peaks of the Alps. However, the price tag often felt like a giant wall that I could not climb. People told me that a trip across the ocean would cost a fortune. I decided to prove them wrong. I found that a Budget Europe Trip From India is actually possible if you have a smart plan. First of all, I had to change how I looked at travel. I stopped looking at expensive luxury hotels. I looked for the hidden gems of the East and Central regions. Truly a life-changing choice.
Why I Chose a Budget Europe Trip From India
The continent of Europe is famous for its history and beauty. But many Indian travelers worry about the high costs. I realized that the secret is in choosing the right countries. You do not always have to visit London or Paris to see amazing things. On the contrary, countries like Slovakia, Albania, and Bulgaria offer more value for every Rupee. They have the same castles and cobblestone streets. Plus, the food and rooms are much cheaper.
Additionally, 2026 is a great year for us to visit. Flight options from cities like Delhi and Mumbai are expanding. I saw that Air India and Vistara offer better routes now. Therefore, I felt that this was the perfect time to start my journey. I wanted to see everything from the Baltic Sea to the Mediterranean coast.
My Big Financial Plan
First of all, I needed to know exactly how much money to save. A 2 week europe trip cost from india can vary a lot. If you choose mid-range hotels, you might spend between ₹2,00,000 and ₹2,70,000 per person. However, I found that you can go lower if you stay in hostels. For a shorter stay, 7 days europe tour packages from india usually cost between ₹1.5 lakh and ₹2.5 lakh. I also looked for 7 days europe tour packages from india with flight and found great deals for about ₹2.1 lakh.
Later, I looked at longer trips. A 21 days europe tour from india price can be around ₹2,38,000 if you stay in budget hostels. If you want to go for a full month, a 30 days europe tour packages from india price can reach higher numbers, but your daily cost often goes down. I budgeted around ₹3,000 to ₹5,000 per day for my food and local travel. Additionally, 15 days europe tour packages from india allow you to see more countries for about ₹3.3 lakh. I searched for 15 days europe tour packages from india with flight and saw packages starting at ₹2.7 lakh. On top of that, a 21 day europe tour packages from india offers a very deep experience.
The Visa and Legal Steps
I knew I needed a Schengen Visa. This single visa lets you visit 29 different countries. The fee for adults is about ₹7,210.25 as of mid-2024. I also had to pay a service fee to VFS Global, which was around ₹1,500 to ₹2,500. A lot of paperwork? Yes.
A very important rule is that you must have travel insurance. The embassy requires a policy that covers at least €30,000 in medical expenses. I found that Digit Insurance and Reliance General offer these plans for a low daily premium. Some plans start as low as ₹515 for four days.
Additionally, I learned about ETIAS. This is a new digital system starting in late 2026. It will cost about €7, which is roughly ₹630. It is not a visa, but a quick online approval that lasts for three years. I made sure my passport was valid for at least six months after my return date to avoid any trouble at the border.
My Favorite Budget Destinations
I spent a lot of time researching which countries would be kind to my wallet. Here are the places I found that offer the Best Budget Europe Trip From India.
1. Slovakia: The Land of Castles
I started in Slovakia because it is incredibly affordable. A week here can cost between ₹35,000 and ₹1,23,000. I loved visiting the Orava Castle and the city of Bratislava. The food is very cheap. I spent about ₹835 to ₹4,180 a day on meals. The mountains are beautiful. Fairytale views. Low costs.
2. Albania: The Hidden Mediterranean
Albania was a huge surprise. For a long time, it was closed to travelers, but now it is open and very cheap. A 7-day trip costs about ₹38,000 to ₹1,30,000. I enjoyed the beaches in Saranda and the history in Berat. Most importantly, the daily expenses are very low, around ₹3,000 to ₹5,000.
3. Bulgaria: The Black Sea Treasure
Bulgaria is one of the oldest countries in Europe. It is perfect for a budget traveler. I found that a week-long trip costs between ₹42,000 and ₹91,000. I spent my days exploring the ancient ruins of Sofia and the mountains of Vitosha. On top of that, the food is delicious and very affordable, costing about ₹1,420 per day.
4. Georgia: Nature at Its Best
Georgia is technically where Europe meets Asia. It is a paradise for hikers and history buffs. A week here costs around ₹45,000 to ₹90,000. I walked through the old streets of Tbilisi and saw the majestic Caucasus Mountains. Plus, Indians can often enter visa-free if they have a valid US or Schengen visa.
5. Romania: Home of Legends
Romania is famous for Transylvania and its castles. I found it very affordable. A week costs between ₹62,000 and ₹87,000. I visited Dracula’s Castle and the beautiful city of Bucharest. The trains are cheap and a great way to see the rolling hills.
6. Hungary: Thermal Baths and Beauty
I spent a few days in Budapest, and it was magical. The total cost for 7 days is about ₹69,000 to ₹1,22,000. I loved the thermal baths and the river cruises. Additionally, I ate local food like Goulash for very low prices.
7. The Czech Republic: Gothic Architecture
Prague is one of the most beautiful cities I have ever seen. A 7-day trip costs between ₹69,000 and ₹1,06,000. I walked across the Charles Bridge and explored the Prague Castle. Later, I realized that the local transport is very efficient and cheap, only about ₹810 per day.
Logistics: Flights and Trains
I searched for the best deals on flights early. I found that February and March are often the cheapest months to fly. A round-trip flight from India can cost between ₹40,000 and ₹80,000. I used apps like Skyscanner and Google Flights to track prices.
On top of that, I had to decide how to move between cities. For a longer trip, the Eurail Pass is a great investment. It covers 33 countries and lets you jump on many trains without buying extra tickets. However, you often need to pay a small fee for seat reservations. For very cheap travel, I used FlixBus. I found tickets for as low as €5 for some routes.
Where to Stay on a Budget
I did not want to spend all my money on hotels. Therefore, I chose hostels and guesthouses. In Eastern Europe, a bed in a hostel can cost between ₹800 and ₹1,800 per night. I also looked into Couchsurfing. This platform lets you stay with locals for free. It is a great way to save money and learn about the culture. Finally, I tried staying in university dorms during the summer. Many colleges in cities like London or Madrid rent out rooms for under £40 a night.
Eating Like a Local
I learned that eating out for every meal is too expensive. I went to local supermarkets to buy groceries. Most hostels have kitchens where you can cook your own meals. This saved me a lot of money. When I did eat out, I looked for street food like Byrek in Albania or Lángos in Hungary. I avoided restaurants near famous landmarks because they always charge more. Street food? Delicious and cheap.
How to Avoid Visa Rejection
I was very nervous about my visa. I learned that many Indians face rejection because of small mistakes. First of all, you must show strong ties to India. This means you must prove that you will come back. I showed my employment letter and my property papers.
Additionally, you must show that you have enough money. I provided bank statements for the last six months. I made sure my balance was stable. I did not make any sudden large deposits. I also wrote a clear Cover Letter that explained my daily plans and purpose of travel.
Another common reason for rejection is invalid insurance. I made sure my policy specifically mentioned the Schengen Area and had at least €30,000 coverage. I also carried a confirmed flight itinerary and proof of where I would stay every night. Be thorough. Do not rush.
Safety Tips for Mature Travelers
I wanted my trip to be safe as well as cheap. I kept my passport and money in a fanny pack under my clothes. I was careful at ATMs and watched out for people who might try to steal my bag in crowded places. Additionally, I always checked the prices on the menu before I ordered food to avoid being overcharged.
I also found that having a Forex card is better than carrying a lot of cash. These cards are prepaid and very safe to use in most cities. I also bought a local SIM card as soon as I landed. It cost me about €10 and gave me enough data for a month.
FAQ
How much will a Europe trip cost from India?
A 10-day trip can cost between ₹2,00,000 and ₹2,70,000 per person. A 15-day trip usually ranges from ₹3,30,000 to ₹4,40,000.
Which European country is cheapest to visit from India?
Slovakia is one of the most affordable countries, with a 7-day trip starting as low as ₹35,000. Albania and Bulgaria are also very budget-friendly.
How to plan a cheap Europe trip from India?
Plan your journey at least 4 to 6 months in advance. Use public transport like buses and stay in hostels or budget guesthouses.
Is 1000 euros enough for 2 weeks in Europe?
1000 euros is about ₹90,000. It is possible if you are a solo traveler staying in hostels and cooking your own meals because an 18-day trip has been done for under ₹1 lakh.
What are the 7 countries Europe trip?
A popular 7-country route starts in Austria and goes through Hungary, the Czech Republic, Poland, and Lithuania.
What is the cheapest month to travel to Europe?
The cheapest months are during the off-season from October through March. February is often the least expensive month for flights.
Which month is best to visit Europe?
April to June and September to October offer the best balance of pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
How do I plan a budget friendly trip?
Travel during the shoulder season and use a Eurail pass for multiple countries. Buy food at local supermarkets to save money.
Which European country is easy for Indians?
Georgia is easy because it offers visa-free entry for Indians with valid US, UK, or Schengen visas. France and Switzerland also have high visa approval rates for Indians.
Is 7 days enough for a Europe trip?
Yes, 7 days is enough to see one or two neighboring countries like Hungary and the Czech Republic.
Which international trip is cheaper from India?
Thailand is much cheaper for a backpacking trip compared to Europe.
Is France costly for Indians?
Yes, Western European nations like France are generally more expensive than Eastern European ones.
Is 2000 enough for 2 weeks in Europe?
2000 euros is roughly ₹1,80,000. This is a good budget for a two-week trip if you stay in mid-range hotels and eat at standard cafes.
Can I survive on $1000 a month?
$1000 is about ₹84,000. It is tight for a whole month in some cities because the average cost of living in Italy is about $1,423 per month.
Who are the big 3 in Europe?
France, Germany, and Italy are three of the most popular and influential countries that use the Euro.
Which Europe tour is best?
The “European Classics” or “Balkan Beauty” tours are highly rated for first-time travelers.
Which is the cheapest country in Europe?
Slovakia and Albania are among the most affordable countries for Indians to visit.
Concluding words
A Budget Europe Trip From India is a realistic goal if you pick affordable countries like Slovakia or Albania. You must plan your budget for flights and stays early to save the most money. Proper visa documentation and mandatory travel insurance are essential for a smooth journey. I hope my experience helps you see the beauty of Europe without spending a fortune.
