I have a real passion for a good adventure. It is the one thing I will spend all my money on without any regrets. I daydream about it and I obsess over it. Since my children were born, I have wanted to show them the world. Perhaps you feel the same way about Cheap Family Travel Europe. You might think a trip across the ocean is too expensive for a large group. However, I am here to tell you that is a massive mistake. I have completed many trips with my family and I have learned a ton about how to travel for less.
Europe is an ideal destination for families. It is full of different cultures and languages that are only a short drive or flight away. I want to share my secrets with you today. This is the 15 Best Cheap Family Travel Europe guide you need. I will talk about kid-friendly cities europe and the top 10 cheapest countries to visit in europe.
Are you ready to become a legend among your friends? Let us dive into the details.
The Truth About the Budget
First of all, let us talk about the numbers. A family trip to Europe sounds like it costs a fortune. Actually, it can be as affordable as a trip to the western United States. I once found flights to Vienna for less than $500 roundtrip. Therefore, I pulled the trigger on that spontaneous purchase.
I know that affordability is the biggest challenge for most parents. In fact, 73% of parents say it is their top concern. Additionally, the average family spent around $8,052 on travel in 2024. That is a lot of money! However, you can spend much less if you use a system. I have managed to visit five countries for only $54 per person per day.
What is the secret? You need to be flexible with your dates and your location. Use tools like Skyscanner or Google Flights to find deals. I love to set the destination box to “Search Everywhere”. It is so exciting to see where the cheap flights will take me.
Hungary: The Pearl of the Danube
Budapest is one of the cheapest countries to visit in europe 2026. It has a mix of history and a very lively culture. The cost of living here is much lower than in Western Europe. Therefore, you can experience luxury on a small budget.
My favorite day in Budapest involves castles and thermal baths. You can visit the Széchenyi Thermal Bath for a fraction of the price of other spas. Kids love to splash around while parents relax. Later, you can take a 20-minute hike up Gellert Hill for the best views of the city. There is a cool art-themed playground there called Cerka-firka with giant colored pencils.
Lodging here is also a bargain. Vacation rentals are much cheaper than in cities like Paris or London. On top of that, you can take free walking tours to see the sights. Just remember that it is nice to tip your guide at the end.
Romania: A Hidden Treasure
If you want your money to go further, you must visit Romania. A week’s budget in Romania might only last you one day in Scandinavia. Plus, the food is incredible and very cheap.
The city of Brasov is a great spot in the heart of Transylvania. It has a lot of medieval charm and natural beauty. You can visit the Black Church or explore the Carpathian Mountains. Additionally, Bucharest is a fantastic choice for a city break with kids. Local restaurants here will not set off alarm bells in your bank account.
Poland: History and Winter Magic
Poland is one of the 12 cheapest countries to visit in europe. I recently took my four kids from Krakow to Zakopane. It was a wild ride! However, the memories were worth the stress.
Krakow has a stunning Old Town that is mostly free to explore. Later, you can go south to the mountains. We stayed in a wooden cabin that was picture-perfect. Gradually, we found that shopping for food in local supermarkets was very cheap. I bought two pizzas, bananas, yogurt, and snacks for less than ten pounds. That same bag would cost at least 20 pounds at home.
Finally, do not miss the thermal baths in Poland either. They are huge and so much fun for the little ones.
Portugal: Tiled Streets and Free Sights
Porto is the second-largest city in Portugal, and it is very family-friendly. There are so many things to do that cost zero dollars. You can walk across the Dom Luís Bridge for free and see amazing views. Similarly, the São Bento Train Station has beautiful tiles that kids will love to look at.
First of all, you must visit the Mercado do Bolhão. It is free to enter, but you will want to buy the warm bread and cheese. Also, I recommend the Lello & Irmão Bookstore. People say it inspired a certain famous wizard story. It is regal and magical.
Czech Republic: Castles and Bridges
Prague is a city of pure “wow” moments. It remains one of the most affordable capitals on the continent. You can walk through Old Town Square and watch the astronomical clock without spending a dime. Then, you can end the day with a sunset walk across Charles Bridge.
Beer lovers will be happy here. A pint of beer often costs less than a bottle of water. Additionally, the city has an efficient public transport system that is easy to navigate. If you are looking for a family trip to europe itinerary 10 days, I suggest combining Prague with Budapest. You can take a scenic train between them for a calm and cheap adventure.
Slovakia: Small But Mighty
Bratislava is often overlooked. However, it is a hidden gem for budget travelers. It has a charming Old Town and a very vibrant cafe culture. You can visit the Bratislava Castle for free or a minimal fee. Plus, the city is small enough to explore on foot. This is a great way to save on transport costs.
Latvia: The Gothic Gem
Riga is the capital of Latvia and it is perfect for a cheap family holiday. It offers a blend of Gothic architecture and a vibrant food scene. Specifically, the Central Market is one of the largest in Europe. You can sample local foods here without spending a fortune. Similarly to Bratislava, Riga is very compact. You can explore the whole city by foot or by bike.
Estonia: A Fairytale Capital
Tallinn looks like it came straight out of a storybook. It has well-preserved medieval walls and cobblestone streets. Many of the top attractions, like Toompea Hill, are free to visit. Additionally, Tallinn is a huge tech hub. You will find free Wi-Fi almost everywhere. This is great for parents who need to check their maps or post a few photos of their family-friendly destinations in europe.
Lithuania: Authentic and Affordable
I find that the Baltic states are all very budget-friendly. Vilnius is no exception. We rarely felt the need to cook for ourselves here because eating out was so cheap. Though it is a smaller city, it is full of character. It is a great place to slow down and just enjoy the atmosphere.
Croatia: The Pearl of the Adriatic
Croatia has gained a lot of fame lately, and prices have gone up. However, savvy travelers can still find deals. Dubrovnik is stunning, but I suggest staying just outside the city center to save money. You can still walk along the ancient city walls or relax on the beach without spending much.
Later, I suggest heading to the islands. Try to pick some of the less popular ones for better prices. We visited the island of Vis, where they filmed Mamma Mia 2. It was a fantastic choice. Additionally, renting a car can be expensive for a large family. I recommend renting two small cars instead of one big van. It saved us hundreds of dollars.
Spain: Beaches and Tapas
Spain is one of the cheapest countries in europe with beach options. Majorca is all about being near the water. Many beaches here are free, and the teal blue sea is perfect for kids.
Similarly, Barcelona has amazing parks. You can visit Park Güell for a low price, and it is free for children under six. Additionally, you can lounge around Barceloneta Beach for free. Finally, do not forget to eat at the Boqueria Market for a casual bite.
Turkey: Friendly People and Grand Bazaars
Turkey has some of the friendliest people in the world. We spent ten days there and people kept giving us free things. Istanbul is a must-see, but it can get pricey. Therefore, I recommend getting out of the big city and doing a road trip.
We rented a manual car for $500 a week and drove to Izmir. We found an amazing Airbnb there for $75 a night. We shopped at local markets and cooked our own meals. At that time, we even found a guy on the internet to take us around for free. He was amazing and we just gave him a nice tip.
Slovenia: Dragons and Green Spaces
Ljubljana is a city straight out of a storybook. It has a medieval castle on a hill and beautiful bridges. Kids love the statues on the Dragon Bridge. It is also one of the greenest capitals in Europe. You can spend a whole afternoon in Tivoli Park. Additionally, a boat tour along the river is a very relaxing and family-friendly experience.
France: Fairytales on a Budget
You can visit France for less if you are smart. Many museums in Paris are free or discounted for kids. For example, admission to the permanent collection at Petit Palais is free for everyone. The Louvre is free on select Friday nights.
On top of that, I suggest visiting Bordeaux. It has the world’s largest reflecting pool, and mirrors made of water are so much fun for kids. You can also visit chateaux that feel like a fairytale. Gradually, you will realize that you are keeping your spending to a minimum while still having an idyllic vacation.
Italy: The Ultimate Gem
Italy has more charm than a basket full of puppies. It is a top choice for Cheap Family Travel Europe. You can indulge in pasta that would make even famous chefs weep with joy. However, you must be careful with the costs.
First of all, stay in holiday rentals instead of hotels. I love a good hotel, but a rental is more practical for a family. We usually paid about 35 Euros a night for apartments in Old Towns. Additionally, you should slow down. Rushing around is a recipe for family arguments and child meltdowns. Instead, spend a whole week in one spot. Long-stay discounts on Airbnb can be as much as 50%.
Italy is also perfect for a road trip. Driving allows you to find those hidden gems only locals know about. Just watch out for the tolls! Driving through France to get to Italy can cost $400 in tolls. On the contrary, driving through Germany and Austria is much cheaper. German roads are free and Austria has a cheap 10-day pass.
Accommodation Hacks: Beyond the Hotel Room
Do not automatically choose hotels. They are often the most expensive option in town. Actually, more and more hostels are offering family rooms with ensuite bathrooms. They are stylish and provide a fantastic value.
However, my absolute favorite way to save is Eurocamp. These are not just muddy fields with tents. You can stay in mobile homes, chalets, or luxury safari tents. They are all over Europe, from the coast of Normandy to the countryside of Slovenia.
Why is Eurocamp so cheap? You pay per accommodation, not per person. This is a huge win for larger families. Additionally, you can cook your own meals using local ingredients. I love sitting out on my decking in my pajamas with a coffee while the kids run around in nature. It provides a freedom that a hotel room never could.
Finally, consider camping gear if you have it. Campsites are often served by public transport and are a great way to cut costs.
Transportation: Trains, Planes, and Automobiles
Trains are like magic carpets in Europe. They zip you between cities without the airport hassle. First of all, you should plan and book early. Last-minute tickets are way more expensive. Additionally, consider point-to-point tickets instead of a rail pass. Sometimes they are the cheaper option.
On top of that, travel overnight. You can save money on a hotel room by sleeping while the train moves. It is a win-win! Plus, there are special discounts if you travel as a group.
However, budget airlines are also your best buddies. I have flown from London to Berlin for less than the cost of a ride to the airport. Just watch out for those sneaky baggage fees. Ryanair and Wizz Air have very strict rules. Their free bag allowance is notoriously tiny. Therefore, pack light! You do not want to be the person wrestling a giant suitcase over cobblestone streets.
Finally, consider driving. If you want to go off the beaten track, a car is a lifesaver. It gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Additionally, you have more packing space, which means less stress.
Eating for Less: The Supermarket Secret
Food is one of the biggest expenses when you travel. However, you can save a lot by using local supermarkets. I love to go to Aldi or Lidl in Germany or Migros in Zurich. You can buy fresh bread, cheese, and produce for a few Euros.
Some of my best travel meals have been picnics in the park. One afternoon in Austria, we grabbed a pizza from a kiosk and some cheese and fruit from the grocer. We sat in a gorgeous park and the kids ran around. It was perfection at half the cost of a restaurant.
Additionally, take advantage of lunch menus. Many restaurants offer cheaper deals during the day compared to dinner. Also, look for street food. Döner kebabs in Germany or langos in Zurich are delicious and very affordable.
Free Fun: Museums and Parks
You do not have to pay for every activity. Some of the best sights are free. For example, London is a goldmine of free stuff for kids. You can see the T-Rex at the Natural History Museum or the Rosetta Stone at the British Museum for zero pounds. Similarly, you can watch the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace or see Tower Bridge open without spending a penny.
On top of that, almost every city has amazing parks. We love the fountains at Granary Square in London where the water squirts in patterns. Additionally, you can find free walking tours in almost every major city. They are a great way to learn about the history from a local.
Statistical Trends for 2025 and 2026
I want to share some interesting data from the US Family Travel Survey 2025. Family travel is booming! 92% of parents plan to travel in the next 12 months. However, 73% of them are worried about affordability.
Gradually, behaviors are changing because of these costs. 50% of parents now book lodging with a kitchen so they can cook their own meals. 46% of them are limiting the number of paid attractions they visit.
Additionally, children are having more influence on travel plans. We call this “kidfluence”. 74% of kids over the age of seven love to travel. 48% of them help choose the activities on vacation. Therefore, it is a good idea to involve them in the planning. It makes them more adaptable and open to new experiences.
A 10-Day Itinerary Idea
If you are looking for a family trip to europe itinerary 10 days, here is a classic suggestion.
- Days 1-3: Start in Prague. Walk the Charles Bridge and visit the castle.
- Day 4: Take a scenic train to Budapest. It is calm and much cheaper than a flight.
- Days 5-7: Explore Budapest. Soak in the thermal baths and visit the local markets.
- Days 8-10: Fly to one of the cheapest countries in europe with beach options. Maybe head to Majorca or Porto.
This trip works because everything is walkable and safe. Additionally, it is packed with experiences that do not require expensive tickets.
FAQ
How to travel Europe cheaply with family?
You should choose slow travel and stay longer in one place to open up the possibility of long-stay discounts. You must look at budget airlines like Ryanair and specify a “From” location while setting the “To” box to “Search Everywhere” to find the lowest prices. You should avoid hotels and stay in hostels or campsites that offer family rooms and ensuite bathrooms. You can use local supermarkets like Aldi or Lidl to buy simple ingredients for home-cooked meals. How exciting!
What is the cheapest country to visit in Europe with kids?
Romania is a top pick because the prices at local restaurants and shops are much lower than in Western Europe. You will notice that a budget for one week in Romania might only last one day in a place like Scandinavia.
Which country is best for travel in low budget in Europe?
Hungary is an excellent destination because the cost of living is significantly lower than in other European regions. You can experience luxury there by visiting thermal baths at a fraction of the cost you would pay elsewhere. Portugal also provides high value because cities like Porto have dozens of family-friendly activities that are free.
Which country is cheaper for a family trip?
Romania remains one of the most affordable options for a family getaway. Poland is another budget-friendly choice because you can explore significant historical landmarks in Old Towns without spending any money.
Which European country is best for family vacation?
Italy is a wonderful choice because it offers a mix of rich history and the best food that children will enjoy. Mama mia! You might also love Spain for its calm beaches and unbelievable parks.
Is 1000 euros enough for 2 weeks in Europe?
A typical one-week escape to Europe costs between 1,200 and 3,000 euros. A family of four can survive on 90 euros a day if they stay in apartments and cook their own food, but that still adds up to 1,260 euros for two weeks. Therefore, 1,000 euros is not enough for most families for two full weeks.
Which country is best for a family trip with kids?
Italy is a favorite because the canals of Venice and the ruins of Rome make children wide-eyed with wonder. France is another idyllic option where you can visit fairytale chateaux and museums that do not charge for children.
Where is still cheap in Europe?
Eastern Europe is the best place to save big in 2026. You should visit cities like Budapest, Tallinn, Riga, and Bratislava for high wow-factor experiences at low prices.
Which city in Europe is best for kids?
London is fantastic because it offers 38 free things to do with kids including world-class museums and parks. Paris is also a top choice since many major museums offer free entry for children on select nights. Barcelona features next-level parks and beaches that are free for families to explore.
Concluding words
I have shared my best secrets to help you plan an affordable European vacation without any stress. You should focus on Eastern Europe and utilize clever hacks like slow travel and self-catering. You must involve your children in the planning process to improve their engagement and happiness.
It is possible to see 15 Best Cheap Family Travel Europe destinations while keeping your budget under control. You should start your adventure today to create memories that will last a lifetime.
