Travelling across Europe is a dream for many, but it can be daunting when you start adding up the costs. Flights, accommodation, meals, and attractions—everything seems to add up quickly. However, budget-conscious travellers can explore Europe without breaking the bank, especially with a bit of planning and some clever strategies. Based on my own experiences travelling from London, I’ll share how to get the most out of your trip while keeping costs low. Whether you're into solo travel, looking for low-cost airlines, or trying to figure out the best time to visit Europe for cheap, this guide has you covered.
1. Weighing up flight costs vs destination expenses
While cheap flights can be tempting, it’s crucial to consider the overall cost of travelling to a destination. For instance, I recently faced a choice between flying to Baku and Tbilisi or to Tirana in Albania. Although flights to Tirana were cheaper, I realised that after factoring in accommodation, food, transfers, and activities, the total cost of staying in Albania would be nearly double what I’d spend in Baku and Tbilisi. Even though the flight to these destinations was more expensive, I saved a significant amount by choosing countries where the cost of living and travel was much lower.
In addition to this, Europe is home to some of the world’s best low-cost airlines, such as Ryanair, EasyJet, and WizzAir, offering flights that can start as low as £24 return. These budget airlines provide excellent value for travel across popular cities like Paris, Berlin, or Rome, as well as off-the-beaten-path destinations. However, it’s essential to be wary of hidden costs. Some budget airlines may fly at inconvenient times or from less accessible airports compared to offerings of legacy carriers such as British Airways, which can lead to additional expenses for transport or accommodation, especially for early morning or late-night flights.
To truly take advantage of cheap travel in Europe, always consider how much you’ll spend once you arrive. Research the cost of accommodation, food, transportation, and activities in advance. Destinations in Eastern Europe or the Balkans are typically cheaper for meals, tours, and hotels compared to more tourist-heavy locations in Western Europe. A key budget travel hack is to weigh the total cost, considering both flight prices and destination expenses, to ensure you get the best overall value for your trip.
2. Travel by bus for extra savings
If you’re looking for budget travel in Europe, consider travelling by bus, particularly for trips from the UK. Companies like FlixBus and Megabus offer extremely cheap fares between major European cities. You can catch an overnight FlixBus from London to connect to cities like Paris, Brussels, or Amsterdam for around £50 return. While overnight trips can be tiring, they come with significant advantages. For one, you save on accommodation, and many FlixBus routes include meal vouchers for ferries across the Channel, helping you cut costs further.
Additionally, buses drop you off closer to city centres compared to some airports, which is ideal for travellers wanting to avoid expensive taxi rides. It's also a great option for solo travel enthusiasts who want a flexible and affordable way to explore new destinations.
3. Book accommodation in budget hostels or Airbnb
When it comes to accommodation, staying in hotels can be one of the biggest expenses. However, Europe has an abundance of affordable alternatives. Solo travellers in Europe can save money by staying in hostels, which not only provide budget-friendly lodging but also offer great opportunities to meet other travellers.
Websites like Hostelworld are perfect for finding hostels that cater to your needs and budget. One of the major perks of hostels is that many of them offer discounted tours or experiences specifically for their guests. This can include free walking tours, pub crawls, or excursions to local attractions, often at much cheaper rates than booking independently. For example, some hostels partner with local guides to provide budget-friendly day trips or cultural experiences that are not only cheaper but also help you explore areas you might not have considered. Staying in hostels allows you to save on accommodation and take advantage of these discounted activities, further cutting costs while enhancing your travel experience.
Airbnb is another excellent option, especially if you’re staying in a city for more than a couple of days. Many hosts offer discounts for longer stays, and it’s possible to find private rooms or apartments at a fraction of the cost of hotels. If you’re really looking to cut down on costs, you can try Couchsurfing—a platform where locals offer free accommodation to travellers. It’s perfect for cheap travel and can give you a more immersive experience with a local host.
4. Off-season Travel: The best time to visit Europe for cheap
One of the best tips for budget travel in Europe is to visit during the off-season. For example, I visited Paris in February, when tourist crowds are significantly smaller. This timing allowed me to secure lower transport costs and enjoy a delightful mille-feuille cooking activity at a fraction of the price compared to peak season. By travelling during the off-peak months, you not only save money on airfare and accommodation but also experience a more relaxed atmosphere, with fewer tourists vying for the same attractions.
5. Embrace budget-friendly attractions
To make the most of your travel experience without overspending, consider joining Free Tours by Foot. These tours, typically led by enthusiastic locals, provide a deep dive into a city’s history and culture while allowing you to discover hidden gems. I had a memorable experience in Antwerp, where I participated in a free afternoon tour that highlighted the city’s rich heritage and included delightful surprises, like tasting Belgian chocolate.
Another excellent resource for authentic activities is Airbnb Experiences. This platform connects you with local hosts who offer unique and affordable activities, such as food tours and workshops. During my trip to Sofia, Bulgaria, I booked a wine and cheese tasting that introduced me to fantastic local varieties, all in a cosy setting. The personal stories shared by the host added a memorable touch to the evening, proving that you can find enriching experiences without the hefty price tag.
Finally, don’t miss out on local artisan shops and workshops. These places often host hands-on activities where you can learn about traditional crafts. For instance, while touring Tbilisi, I discovered a local shop that offered free wine tasting, where the owner educated me about Georgian wine making traditions. Engaging with local artisans not only enhances your understanding of the culture but also supports small businesses and allows you to take home a piece of your travel experience.
6. Use budget travel apps and discount cards
There are several apps and discount cards specifically designed for budget travel in Europe. Platforms like Skyscanner and Google Flights are fantastic for tracking and finding the cheapest flights. If you're planning to travel by train, the Interrail Pass or Eurail Pass can be great investments for those looking to cover a lot of ground over a few weeks.
One of the best budget travel hacks for Europe is knowing when to book your flights. Generally, flights on Tuesdays and Wednesdays tend to be cheaper, as these are days when fewer people are travelling. If your schedule is flexible, always check the flight prices on these days. By avoiding peak times like weekends or Fridays, you can often save a significant amount on your airfare.
7. Explore well-connected offbeat destinations for a more authentic and affordable experience
When planning a trip in Europe on a budget, opting for offbeat destinations can be both enriching and cost-effective. For instance, during my travels in Croatia, I stayed in Zadar instead of the more crowded Dubrovnik or Split. Zadar offered stunning coastal views and rich history while being well-connected by bus, making it easy to explore nearby areas without the hefty price tag.
8. Expect the Unexpected: Be flexible with your plans
One of the biggest lessons I've learned while travelling is to expect the unexpected and be flexible with my itinerary. On a recent trip to Rennes with my mum, we initially planned to visit Tours. However, when we discovered that a return train ticket would cost over £100 return for one person, we quickly reassessed our options and decided to head to Fougères, a picturesque town just 45 minutes away. The entire trip, including transport and attractions, cost us less than £20 per person.
This taught me that sometimes the best adventures happen when you’re open to change. Embracing the unexpected can lead to unforgettable experiences and significant savings.
9. Take advantage of reward programmes
Leveraging reward programmes can significantly enhance your budget travel experience by providing discounts and perks that add up over time. Many travel companies offer loyalty programs that reward frequent customers, allowing you to save money on future trips.
For instance, Viator has a rewards system where you earn points every time you book an experience through their platform and accumulate money off on future trips. Similarly, Booking.com features a Genius programme that provides various benefits to members, including access to exclusive deals on hotel rates. Using these programmes is a simple way to maximise your travel budget and enjoy additional comforts.
10. Explore day trips using ferries
Taking advantage of ferry services can open up a world of exploration while keeping your travel budget in check. Many ferry companies offer affordable day trips to nearby destinations, allowing you to experience new cultures without the need for overnight accommodation.
For instance, Condor Ferries offers day trips from just £29, allowing you to explore Guernsey, a beautiful island rich in food culture and World War II history. Similarly, Brittany Ferries offers day trips to France starting at £26 per person.
Exploring Europe on a budget doesn’t have to be daunting. With a little planning and strategic choices, you can enjoy incredible experiences without overspending. By implementing these tips, you can make your dream of travelling across Europe a reality while keeping your finances in check. Happy travels!
Comments