I have explored the corners of the globe for many years. One thing stays true. You do not need a fortune to see the world. My first trip across Europe cost less than the price of a small box of chicken nuggets for a bus ticket. This discovery changed my life. Now, I will show you how to enjoy Low Budget Travel In Europe without missing the magic.
Europe is an expensive view for the most part. However, there are untrodden paths and hidden treasures that are cheap and easy to fit in your budget. First of all, you must realize that the continent is full of incredible destinations at half the cost of places like Paris or London. These spots sit mostly in the Eastern and Southeastern regions. You can find low budget travel in europel if you look toward the Balkans or the Baltic states.
A standard two-week trip for budget travelers usually falls between $1,800 and $3,000. Daily spending averages around 100 euros per person, excluding lodging. Additionally, you can spend as little as €35 to €75 a day if you stick to hostels and local food. This is a far cry from the €200 you might spend in Switzerland. Pure madness.
what are the cheapest countries to travel to in europe
You might wonder where to go first. The answer is simple. Head east.
North Macedonia is easily the cheapest country in the Balkans. I completely fell in love with it. It is Europe’s biggest hidden gem. In the capital city of Skopje, you can expect to pay only €35 for a budget apartment and €5 to €10 for an excellent meal. The city is weird and wonderful with a massive number of statues. Therefore, it is a perfect low cost europe country for your list.
Similarly, Albania is a dream for people who love nature and low prices. It is Europe’s best-kept secret for outdoor adventures. The Albanian Riviera offers turquoise waters that rival Greece for a fraction of the cost. You can stay in a nice hostel for $10 to $20 per night. Plus, it is legal to camp anywhere in the country. You can save a ton of money on accommodation fees if you have a tent.
Kosovo is another absolute leader for budget fans. It has the lowest recorded average price for a three-course dinner for two at just €20.00. This makes it a premier spot for a low cost trip in europe. The city of Prizren is visually stunning and costs almost nothing to explore.
Gradually, more people are discovering Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is one of the more off-the-beaten-track destinations. In the capital of Sarajevo, you can wander the streets for hours and never get bored. You can fill up on a traditional burek for less than five euros. A pint of beer costs as little as €2.30. It is an incredible place for solo explorers.
On the contrary, countries like Switzerland or Norway will drain your wallet fast. A dinner for two in Switzerland reaches €107.24 on average. At that time, my wallet would cry. Stick to the low budget europe destinations if you want your euros to stretch.
The Best low budget trips in europe: Cities to Watch
The right city makes all the difference. Some cities are designed for budget travel in europe.
Krakow, Poland looks like it stepped out of a medieval postcard. It is a hip and youthful city with cheap beer. I am talking about a pint for under $3. You should try the “bar mleczny” or milk bars. These are government-subsidized cafeterias that serve traditional Polish food for about $5 to $7. They are great for a more authentic local feel. On top of that, the city is very friendly and exceptionally clean.
Sofia, Bulgaria is one of the most overlooked capitals. It is very walkable and sits on top of ancient ruins. You can join a free walking tour to learn the history. Later, you should walk down Vitosha Boulevard to find amazing places to eat. A mid-range dinner for two in Bulgaria averages around €40.91.
Budapest, Hungary is split into Buda and Pest by the Danube River. It has ruin bars that redefine “vibes”. Finally, it offers thermal baths without the high crowds if you head to smaller cities like Szeged. The Hungarian Forint is weaker than the Euro. This means you get a favorable exchange rate for your money.
Bucharest, Romania is often called “Little Paris”. It provides an affordable urban experience with a mix of old and new architecture. If you love history, you should visit Bran Castle, which people associate with Dracula. Additionally, a day in Romania can be spent for under $30 to $70 depending on your comfort level.
Vilnius, Lithuania is a great walking city with many free sights. The cafes are lively and cheap. Basic hotels start at €45 per night. It is the most affordable of the three Baltic states. Similarly, Riga, Latvia has stunning architecture and is one of the most affordable capital cities. Its Central Market spans a repurposed zeppelin hangar and offers fresh ingredients for an affordable meal.
Mastering the low cost travel in europe: Transport Hacks
The way you move around dictates your final bill. You have three main choices: buses, trains, or budget planes.
First of all, buses are often the most cost-effective option. FlixBus is the main contender here. You can find fares as cheap as €5 one way. They have a very chilled out cancellation policy. You can change your ticket up to 15 minutes before you leave for a small fee. However, buses are not as comfortable as trains. It is a trade-off for a spontaneous budget traveler.
Later, you might look at budget airlines. Europe is crawling with them. Ryanair and easyJet are big names. I have found tickets for as little as €10 if I book early enough. Though, you must watch for hidden fees. These airlines charge for seat selection, priority boarding, and checked bags. A $30 base fare can become $80 very quickly. Always compare the total trip cost.
Trains are the most iconic way to see the continent. The rail network links almost every city at high speeds. You can chill out, read, or meet people as you go. A Eurail Pass or Interrail Pass gives you freedom and flexibility. Therefore, a pass is worth it if you plan to visit five or more cities. Also, it avoids sky-high last-minute ticket prices.
Important Note on Trains:
- Continuous passes give unlimited travel every day for a set period.
- Flexi passes give you a set number of travel days within one or two months.
- You need to pay for seat reservations on some high-speed and night trains.
- Reservations usually range from €3 to €12.
If you want to save even more, you should check out BlaBlaCar. This is a carpool service where you pitch in for gas. It matches drivers and passengers who go to the same place. It is often faster and more social than a bus.
Accommodation Strategies for low budget travel destinations in europe
Lodging is usually your biggest expense. You must be smart about where you sleep.
Hostels are the cheapest bet for solo travelers. A dormitory bed typically costs between $20 and $60 per night. In the Balkans, it can be as low as $8 to $15. Just do not forget to pack earplugs for the snorers. Also, many hostels offer free walking tours and a social vibe.
Vacation rentals like Airbnb are often a better deal for groups. Renting an entire apartment can cost less per person than hotel rooms. These places give you a kitchen to cook your own meals. This simple act can reduce your food costs by up to 60%.
Plus, you can look at the work-exchange model. Platforms like Worldpackers or Workaway connect you with hosts. You provide about 20 to 25 hours of work per week in exchange for free a room and meals. This is a brilliant way to extend a trip for a very long time.
Gradually, I learned that staying outside city centers saves about 30% to 40%. Public transport is usually efficient enough to get you back to the sights quickly. Finally, you can try Couchsurfing to stay with locals for free. It is a great way to get insider tips while you save cash.
How to Eat Well on a Tiny Budget
Food is the most flexible category in your budget. You can spend $20 or $300 a day.
First of all, skip the tourist restaurants near the main squares. On the contrary, head in a few blocks for an authentic and inexpensive experience. Picnicking is a much more enjoyable way to eat. Many supermarkets have delis where you can get food to go. I have had my most memorable meals on a park bench with fresh bread and cheese.
Additionally, you should look for set-menu lunches. In Hungary, these are very budget-friendly. In Estonia, they are called “päevapakkumised”. They typically range from €5 to €10. This provides a high-quality meal at a massive discount compared to dinner.
Street food is another winner. You can grab a gyros in Greece for $3 to $4. In Albania, street food costs only $1 to $2. Similarly, local markets are great for fresh produce. You can find seafood and delicacies at a fraction of the cost of restaurants.
Therefore, if you want to save money, you should:
- Cook your own meals in your hostel kitchen.
- Shop at local markets and grocery stores.
- Drink tap water where it is safe.
- Take a reusable water bottle with you.
- Hit happy hours between 5 PM and 7 PM for cheaper drinks.
Essential Planning and low cost travel insurance europe
A trip takes work to plan. You do not want to be caught without a safety net.
First of all, you must take out travel insurance. It should cover medical issues and trip cancellations. Reliable low cost travel insurance europe options like SafetyWing offer month-to-month payments. This is perfect for long-term travelers and digital nomads. On top of that, it is cheap and easy to set up. You should aim for at least €1 million in medical cover.
Later, you should think about your phone data. International roaming charges are a nightmare. They often exceed $10 per day. However, an eSIM eliminates these fees. You can connect directly to local networks at affordable rates. Data helps you navigate public transport and find cheap places to eat on the go.
Banking is another spot where fees hide. ATM fees average €2 to €5 per withdrawal. You should get a travel card like Wise or Curve. These cards offer the mid-market exchange rate with very low fees. Similarly, some banks reimburse all global ATM fees. Do not leave home without a card that works for you.
Gradually, you will also need to deal with the new ETIAS authorization. Travelers from the US and Canada must pay a fee of approximately €7. It lasts for three years and is required to get into the Schengen Zone. It is a small sum but strictly enforced.
Free Sightseeing and Cultural Access
Immersion does not have to be pricey. Many of the best things in Europe are free.
First of all, many major museums have free entry days. In Paris, the Louvre is free on the first Sunday of the month from November to March. In Berlin, “Museum Sunday” occurs every month. London offers free entry to the permanent collections of the British Museum and National Gallery year-round.
Additionally, you should join free walking tours. They are available in almost every city. They operate on a “pay-what-you-wish” model. A standard tip is between €10 and €20, but even €5 is a meaningful contribution if you are tight on cash. It is the best way to get your bearings in a new place.
Similarly, nature is free to enjoy. You can go hiking in the Alps or the Carpathian Mountains for nothing. Most beaches along the Black Sea or the Adriatic are free to visit. Therefore, you should prioritize outdoor activities to keep your daily spend low.
Summary of the Best Ways to Save
Europe is changing. Popular spots are seeing huge price increases. However, the opportunities for a low cost europe country adventure have never been better.
To win at Low Budget Travel In Europe, you should:
- Focus on the periphery: Spend more time in the Balkans and Eastern Europe.
- Travel during the off-season: Shoulder seasons like April or October offer 30% to 50% savings.
- Master the logic of transport: Use FlixBus for short trips and book flights 2 to 3 months early.
- Eat like a local: Use market stalls and set-menu deals.
- Innovate on lodging: Try work exchanges or hostels with kitchens.
My years on the road have taught me that price is not everything. You get authentic experiences that most tourists miss. These lesser-known countries offer more genuine interactions and fewer crowds. Plus, when you spend less on basic stuff, you can stay longer. A week in Albania can cost the same as two days in Switzerland.
Low Budget Travel In Europe is a reality for anyone with a bit of planning. Your wallet and your wanderlust will thank you. Start looking at your map today. Pure adventure awaits. Total joy is just a bus ride away. The continent is yours to explore. Dry your teary eyes and go see the world. You have everything you need to start your journey.
Finally, remember that things will inevitably go wrong. That is the fun of travel. Embrace the unexpected and keep moving. Safe travels!
Frequently Asked Questions About Low Budget Travel In Europe
You likely have many questions about how to make your money last on the road. Here are the answers to common questions travelers ask when they plan a trip.
Which is the cheapest country in Europe to visit?
Kosovo holds the title for the lowest average price for a three-course dinner for two at only €20.00. North Macedonia is another leader with a daily budget of approximately €30.
Where in Europe is it cheapest to travel?
The Eastern and Southeastern regions are the best for your wallet. You should look toward the Balkans and the Baltic states to find the highest value.
How to travel Europe in low budget?
You must focus on minimizing big costs by staying in shared hostel dorms and using slow transit like buses. Additionally, you should cook your own meals and prioritize free sightseeing.
Where to go for a 3 day trip to Europe?
Ljubljana, Slovenia is a charming spot that is perfect for a weekend break. Similarly, Kaunas, Lithuania is small and perfect for a short stopover.
Is $100 a day enough in Europe?
Yes, a daily spend of 100 euros per person is the average for many travelers. You can actually spend as little as €35 to €75 per day in budget-friendly countries if you are careful.
Which city is the cheapest in Europe?
Skopje in North Macedonia is often named the cheapest capital city. Sarajevo and Tirana also remain remarkably affordable for urban explorers.
Where to visit Europe on a budget?
You should focus on the “Balkan Value Frontier” which includes Albania and Bosnia and Herzegovina. On top of that, the “Central Corridor” of Poland, Romania, and Bulgaria offers a high level of culture for a low cost.
What is the cheapest month to fly to Europe?
Flying between November and March offers substantial savings on airfare. You will find the best “Goldilocks” prices during the shoulder seasons of April, May, September, and October.
Which country is best for travel in low budget?
North Macedonia is perhaps the biggest hidden gem because it is ultra-cheap and beautiful. Albania is also a top contender because you can stay in hostels for $10 to $20 per night.
Where to go for a cheap holiday in Europe?
Bulgaria provides excellent budget ski resorts in the winter and cheap beach resorts in the summer. Montenegro offers a stunning coastline with Adriatic beauty without the high prices of Italy.
How do I plan a budget friendly trip?
You should use flight comparison tools and book your tickets two to eight months in advance. Therefore, you must research the specific regions to find “exchange rate discounts” in countries that do not use the Euro.
What is the cheapest and safest country to visit?
Romania is a real hidden gem that is both safe and affordable for tourists. Poland is another great choice because it is exceptionally clean, friendly, and well-priced.
Concluding words
Low Budget Travel In Europe is very possible if you move your focus to the Balkans and Eastern Europe. You do not need to spend a fortune to enjoy medieval castles and pristine beaches. Use buses like FlixBus and stay in hostels or work-exchange programs to keep your costs under €75 a day. Finally, remember to plan ahead and travel during the shoulder season to save up to 50% on your total bill.
