I have spent over a decade wandering through the beautiful streets of Europe as a budget traveler, a broke student, and a restless expat. A common myth suggests that a trip to this continent will drain your bank account. However, my experience proves that you do not need to spend a fortune to create memories that last forever. Europe has a real mix of something for everyone, and some of the cheapest places are actually the most beautiful. I want to share my secrets for the 10 Best Cheap Europe Travel Itinerary options that offer high value for your money.
The Classic Duo: London and Paris (7 to 10 Days)
A 7 day europe trip itinerary often starts with the two most iconic cities in the world. London and Paris are connected by a super easy two-hour train ride. First of all, you should spend three or four nights in London. The city is famous for its history, but it is also a champion of free culture. In 2001, the United Kingdom removed entry fees for all national museums. You can visit the British Museum or the Natural History Museum for zero dollars. A walk through Hyde Park is free. A ride on a red double-decker bus is cheap.
Later, you should take the Eurostar train to Paris. If you book a month or two early, the price can be under $75 for a one-way ticket. In Paris, the food is the star. Even a simple lunch at a corner cafe feels like a spiritual experience. You can see the Eiffel Tower, visit the Louvre, and walk along the Seine River. To save money, visit the Sacre-Coeur church. It is a Roman Catholic church with the largest mosaic in France, and you can enter at no cost. This route is fast-paced but not exhausting. It is the perfect 1 week europe itinerary by train for a first-time visitor.
The Central Europe Loop: Berlin, Prague, and Budapest (10 Days)
If you have 10 days in europe on a budget, this loop is a winner. It is grand, historic, and very affordable. First of all, start with three nights in Berlin. This city is cool, weird, and endlessly interesting. You can visit the Berlin Wall and the Brandenburg Gate for free. Additionally, the nightlife is famous for being vibrant and affordable.
Next, take a bus or train to Prague in the Czech Republic. A bus ticket can cost as little as $12. Prague is a dream for people who love history and architecture. You can stroll across the Charles Bridge or explore the Prague Castle without spending much. On top of that, the food is very friendly to your wallet. You must try a Trdelník, which is a delicious chimney cake found on every corner.
Finally, end your trip with three nights in Budapest, Hungary. This city is a haven for travelers who want to save money. The river views of the Parliament Building are breathtaking. You should soak in the Thermal Baths to recharge after your travel days. Budapest is also famous for its ruin bars, which offer a unique and cheap night out. Therefore, this loop provides a lot of culture for a low price.
The Ultimate Balkans Adventure: Croatia, Montenegro, and Albania (2 Weeks)
For an europe itinerary 2 weeks in length, the Balkans offer the best “bang for your buck”. My experience in this region was a highlight of my life. Start in Split, Croatia. You can explore the Diocletian’s Palace, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site the size of a small town. Later, take a ferry to the island of Hvar. You can even captain your own small boat for about $50 a day.
After Croatia, take a three-hour bus to Kotor, Montenegro. The mountains here tower above deep blue water. The view? Unreal. The price? Much lower than the rest of the Mediterranean. You can hike to the San Giovanni Fortress for a view of the bay.
Finally, travel south to the Albanian Riviera. This place is a hidden gem with sandy beaches that rival the Greek islands but cost a fraction of the price. Albania is likely the cheapest country to travel in the Balkans. A good meal can cost only $5. This is the cheapest way to travel europe by train and bus combined because the distances are short.
The Baltic Discovery: Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania (10 Days)
The Baltic states are underrated and very affordable. This 10 days in europe on a budget itinerary focuses on northern charm. First of all, start in Tallinn, Estonia. Its medieval Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can spend hours wandering the cobbled streets without spending a cent.
Later, take a bus to Riga, Latvia. Riga has stunning architecture and a medieval heart. It is one of the most affordable capital cities in Europe. You can walk the Art Nouveau district or visit the Central Market.
Finally, visit Vilnius, Lithuania. This city charms visitors with its artistic spirit and very low prices. The Old Town provides endless exploration without the crowds of major Western capitals. Lithuania and Latvia offer some of the lowest accommodation costs, with hostels starting around $10 to $12 per night.
Italy on a Shoestring: Venice, Florence, and Rome (8 to 12 Days)
Italy does not have to be expensive if you are smart. This is a classic 2 week europe itinerary by train if you extend it to a few smaller towns. Start with two nights in Venice. Getting lost in the alleys is half the fun. To save money, avoid the tourist restaurants near the main square. Use the “Five Block Rule” and walk five blocks away from the main sites to find local prices.
Next, take a high-speed train to Florence. This city is the home of Renaissance art and incredible food. You can take a day trip to the Cinque Terre villages, which are perched on cliffs above the sea.
Finally, spend at least three nights in Rome. You will need time for the Colosseum, the Forum, and the Vatican. Italy is actually one of the cheapest places to visit in the Eurozone if you avoid the big tourist hotspots and head further south to places like Sicily or Puglia. On top of that, many cities offer free water from public fountains, which saves you a lot of money every day.
The Eastern Explorer: Poland and Slovakia (1 Week)
Poland and Slovakia offer a mix of mountain adventure and deep history. For a 7 day europe trip itinerary, start in Kraków, Poland. This city is a hidden gem with a medieval square and a castle on a hill. You must try local pierogi, which are cheap and delicious dumplings.
Later, cross the border into Slovakia. The High Tatras mountains are stunning and offer very affordable hiking and skiing. You can stay in a mountain village and enjoy the nature for a low cost.
Finally, visit Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia. It is a quiet option compared to other capitals. It is only an hour away from Vienna by bus, but the prices are much lower. A night in Bratislava costs an average of $45 for a person. Plus, Poland and Slovakia have very cheap beer and hearty food.
The Southern Balkan Trail: Serbia, North Macedonia, and Bulgaria (10 Days)
This route is for the adventurous traveler. First of all, visit Belgrade, Serbia. The city has a proud history and an intense nightlife. You can visit the Belgrade Fortress for free. The floating clubs on the river are a unique experience.
Next, head to Skopje, North Macedonia. This city is one of the cheapest destinations in Europe at any time of year. It is quirky and full of statues. You can take a short trip to Matka Canyon for amazing scenery.
Finally, finish in Sofia, Bulgaria. Bulgaria is often said to be the cheapest country in Europe. You can dine out and have a drink for as little as $5. The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is a must-see site. These countries offer authentic culture without the crowds. Therefore, this is a top choice for a budget 10 days in europe on a budget.
The Iberian Escape: Spain and Portugal (2 Weeks)
Spain and Portugal are sun-drenched and affordable. For an europe itinerary 2 weeks long, start in Lisbon, Portugal. Lisbon is one of the most affordable capitals in Western Europe. You can ride the iconic yellow trams and eat Pastéis de Nata custard tarts for a few euros.
Later, travel into Spain. Instead of the expensive cities, try Huelva or Cordoba for an extra cheap adventure. You will find amazing tapas and good wine for low prices. If you want a city vibe, Barcelona is great, but stay in a nearby village like Viladecens and commute by train to save on lodging.
Additionally, Porto in Portugal is a great city for a cheap break. Portugal is a surf haven that can definitely be visited on a budget. Both countries offer plenty of sunshine and free activities like wandering the colorful streets of Alfama in Lisbon.
The Alpine Gem: Slovenia and Austria (1 Week)
If you love lakes and mountains, this 1 week europe itinerary by train is perfect. Start in Ljubljana, Slovenia. It is a green and walkable city with cobblestone streets. Later, go to Lake Bled. It offers stunning views and a relaxing time with swimming and kayaking.
Next, cross into Austria and visit Vienna. While Vienna can be pricey, you can do it on a budget. I suggest doing a free walking tour and having a picnic at the Hofburg Gardens to feel like a local. You can also find cheap things to do in Vienna if you avoid the main tourist traps.
Finally, take a train between the cities for a scenic experience. A train ride between Vienna and Prague can cost as little as $12 if you use a budget service. This region is like a fairy tale with castles and turquoise water.
The Budget Beach Hop: Greece (1 Week)
Greece is a dream, but you must avoid the expensive spots like Santorini. For a 5 day europe trip itinerary or a full week, start in Athens. I was very surprised by how reasonably priced the Greek capital was. You can see the Acropolis and wander through the Plaka neighborhood.
Later, take a ferry to a nearby island. The quiet islands of Hydra and Poros offer pristine beaches and a chance to escape the crowds. You can walk from beach to beach and enjoy the sun. Avoid the peak summer months of July and August. At that time, everything is expensive and crowded. Instead, visit in the shoulder season like September. The weather is still incredible, but it is much more affordable.
Master Tips for the Cheapest Way to Travel Europe
Planning a trip is about balance. I divide my trip into five pillars: flights, lodging, food, entertainment, and ground transport.
Pillar 1: Flights The cheapest way to travel europe with family or alone starts with booking early. You should use Skyscanner to track prices. Try to book your international tickets two to eight months early for the best deals. Once you are in Europe, budget airlines like Ryanair, EasyJet, and Wizz Air are your best friends. You can fly between cities for as little as $20 or $30. However, you must travel light. These airlines charge extra for checked bags. I recommend traveling with just a small backpack to avoid these fees.
Pillar 2: Lodging Lodging is often the most expensive part after flights. Hostels are the best choice for a budget. Do not worry; many hostels offer private rooms if you do not want to share a dorm. These are often cheaper than hotels. Additionally, B&Bs in smaller towns are very affordable. In Germany, they are called a Pension or a Gästehaus. Another great tip is to stay a little bit outside the city center. You can save 30% to 50% by staying a short train ride away.
Pillar 3: Ground Transportation The cheapest way to travel europe by train is to book your tickets early. Regional tickets or group deals like the Bayern Ticket in Germany offer unlimited travel for a low price. If you are doing multiple countries, a Eurail Pass can be a great value. However, for the ultimate low cost, use buses. FlixBus is the main company. You can find tickets for only 5 euros. Another cool option is BlaBlaCar. It is a carpool service where you share a ride with a local driver going the same way. It is safe, cheap, and a great way to meet people.
Pillar 4: Dining and Drinks Food can break your budget quickly. First of all, follow the Five Block Rule. Do not eat within five blocks of a major tourist attraction. Walk away until the crowds are gone and the menus are not in ten languages. Also, ask locals, “Where do you eat?” instead of “Where should I eat?”. You will get better results. Street food is some of the best food in the world and costs just a few dollars. Finally, hit the local grocery store. Stores like Lidl and Aldi are all over Europe. You can buy fresh bread, cheese, and fruit for a picnic in the park. This is much cheaper than a restaurant.
Pillar 5: Entertainment Many of the best things to do are free. Most cities have free walking tours. You just give the guide a small tip at the end. You can see the Berlin Wall, the Eiffel Tower, and the canals of Amsterdam for nothing. Museums often have one day a month that is free. On top of that, you should carry a refillable water bottle. Tap water is safe and free in most European cities. Paying for water is a waste of money.
Frequently Asked Questions About Budget European Travel
You might have specific questions about how to make this dream trip a reality without spending too much. Here are some of the most common things people ask me when they plan their own Cheap Europe Travel Itinerary.
Where in Europe is the cheapest to visit?
Bulgaria is often said to be the absolute cheapest country in the entire continent. You can find a bed in a hostel for only $8 per night. Additionally, Albania is the cheapest country in the Balkans with meals that cost just $5. These places offer a high value for your money. On top of that, Bosnia and Herzegovina also offers very low daily costs for travelers.
What is the cheapest way to travel around Europe?
Hitchhiking is the truly cheapest way to get around because it is free, but it is not for everyone. However, the most reliable cheap option for most people is the bus. FlixBus often has fares for only 5 euros. Budget airlines like Ryanair can also be cheaper than a bus if you book very early. Carpooling through BlaBlaCar is another great way to save money.
How to travel Europe for really cheap?
First of all, you must travel during the off-season or shoulder season. You should avoid the Eurozone because countries with their own currency are usually much cheaper. Additionally, you should avoid staying in capital city centers. You should also use the Five Block Rule and walk away from tourist spots to find cheap food. Plus, you can cook your own meals in hostel kitchens to save even more.
Is $100 a day enough in Europe?
Yes, it is more than enough for many regions. You can actually travel the world on $75 a day if you are careful. In countries like Serbia, you only need between $35 and $60 per day. A two-week trip for one person can cost around $1,584 total, which is about $113 per day including flights. Therefore, a $100 daily budget is very comfortable in Eastern and Central Europe.
Where to go for a 3 day trip to Europe?
Athens is a great choice for a 3-day trip because it is very reasonably priced. You can see the ancient history and even visit a nearby island. Lake Bled in Slovenia also offers a perfect 3-day itinerary for nature lovers. Similarly, the city of Prague is perfect for a quick three-day break.
Which country is best for travel in low budget?
Bulgaria, Romania, and Poland are the best options within the European Union for low prices. Albania is the best choice if you want amazing beaches for a fraction of the cost of Greece. These countries offer authentic culture without the huge price tags of Western Europe.
What is the 3 month rule in Europe?
The Schengen visa allows most travelers to stay in the zone for 90 days within a 180-day period. This is basically a three-month limit for visiting 29 different countries. However, some countries like Bulgaria do not count toward this 90-day limit.
Is 1000 euros enough for 2 weeks in Europe?
It can be enough if you stay in budget-friendly countries. One traveler completed a two-week trip through four countries for under $1,500 including international flights from the United States. Additionally, a 12-day trip for two people can cost less than $2,400. This means $1,200 for one person is a solid budget for almost two weeks.
How to plan a budget Europe trip?
First of all, you should book your flights early in the Goldilocks Window of two to eight months before you leave. Later, you should research and compare prices for hostels, Airbnbs, and hotels. You must also buy travel medical insurance like SafetyWing to protect your health.
What is the cheapest month to travel to Europe?
November and January are often the cheapest months because they are the deep off-season. October and April are also great because they are shoulder season months with lower prices and fewer crowds. Additionally, flight prices are significantly lower during these times.
How much does a 7 day Europe trip cost?
A 12-day trip for two people can cost under $2,400, which suggests about $100 per person per day. A one-week trip would likely cost between $700 and $1,000 per person depending on your style. Therefore, you can have a great time for a very low price if you pick the right cities.
Which country is best for travel in low budget in Europe?
Bulgaria consistently ranks as the country with the lowest overall prices in the European Union. Bosnia & Herzegovina and Bulgaria offer the lowest on-the-ground costs for lodging and food. Albania is also a top choice for the lowest prices in the Balkans.
Is $5000 enough for a vacation?
Yes, $5,000 is a very large budget for a European vacation based on these itineraries. You can easily do a two-week trip for under $1,600. Plus, a 12-day trip for two people is often under $2,400. Therefore, $5,000 could likely fund a solo trip for two months or more in budget-friendly regions.
Concluding words
You now have the best tools and 10 Best Cheap Europe Travel Itinerary options to plan an amazing journey. Europe is a beautiful melting pot of culture that offers something for every person. You do not need to spend a lot of money to see the Eiffel Tower, the mountains of Slovakia, or the beaches of Albania. Budget travel is all about finding a balance between your costs and your fun.
Most of the time, the cheapest places like Bulgaria and Romania are actually the most beautiful. Gradually, you will become an expert at finding free tours and local grocery stores. Finally, grab your backpack and start your adventure because the world is waiting for you!
