How to Save Money on Your Trip to Europe
Europe is a dream destination for many. But let’s be honest, it’s easy to blow through your budget faster than you planned. The good news? With a little strategy and some insider tips, you can stretch your money further and still have an incredible adventure across the continent.
Use Skyscanner or Google Flights Explore
If you’re flexible with your dates or even unsure where to go, use platforms like Skyscanner or Google Flights Explore to search for the lowest airfares from your home airport to Europe during specific months. Even during the summer months, you can find budget-friendly flights for random dates.
Stay in hostels
This might be an obvious suggestion for some, but for new travelers who might not know much about them, hostels are shared rooms typically made up of several bunk beds and communal bathrooms with private showers. Often, they are a hot spot for solo and budget travelers as they can have shared kitchens, common spaces, a list of activities going on, and sometimes even a bar. The concept of sharing a room with strangers may sound daunting, but they are usually safe and worth the lower price.
Note: Hostelworld is a great platform to find hostels, along with reviews, photos, and more.
Get some of your meals from the grocery store
Constantly dining out can add up fast and be time-consuming. While it’s worth trying local dishes, budget travelers should stock up at grocery stores, especially on travel days when options are limited and pricey. When you do eat out, avoid tourist-heavy spots like large plazas for a better (and often more affordable) meal, and ALWAYS read reviews before sitting down.
Utilize TooGoodToGo
This online platform is designed to prevent food waste. They connect people with restaurants, cafes, and grocery stores who would otherwise be throwing away good food. It’s free to use the platform, and you can get surprise food bags for 2-7 euros, a fraction of the value of what is in the bag. It’s very legitimate, but not available everywhere in Europe.
Purchase a Eurail pass
Eurail allows you to tour Europe with just one rail pass. Most of the time, you will save money by getting a Eurail pass, especially the longer you’re there and the more trains you plan on taking. However, it can also depend on where you plan on going, the route you want to take, and when you are there. Some areas aren’t well-connected by train, and popular routes may require an extra reservation fee, particularly in the summer.
Note: Many people don’t realize this, but when you purchase a Eurail pass, it also comes with a handful of other discounts at your disposal, such as tours and more.
Search for my article “Eurailing vs. Budget Airlines: What’s the Best Low-Cost Way to Travel Europe?” to learn more
Book your lodgings within walking distance of a train station
Whether you plan on getting around by train or plane, staying within walking distance of a train station will help you save on all those little extra costs of getting around. Taxis and private ride-share apps can add up, and waiting on local buses can be time-consuming. Additionally, most train stations are located in or near city centers, making it easy to explore the area on foot.
Note: If you’re traveling by plane, research how you can get between the airport and the city center using public transportation, as they’re fairly well connected in most cities.
Drink during happy hour or grab drinks from the store
Some countries allow public consumption in specific outdoor spaces. Grab a cheap bottle of wine and some snacks to enjoy along the river or in a park (if permitted), or meet others at a bar during happy hour when the deals are happening.
Find free things to do in a place
You might be surprised by how many free things there are to do and see in European cities. Many parks, gardens, sections of cathedrals, galleries, and even parts of historic buildings are open to the public at no cost. It’s always worth checking ahead to see if any events or free admission days—especially at museums or cultural sites—are happening while you're in town. Some may require you to grab a ticket weeks or months in advance, though.
Try a Free Walking Tour
In most places, you should be able to find free walking tours where you don't pay a fixed price upfront, but instead offer a tip at the end based on your satisfaction. These tours are popular and offer a way to explore a city's highlights with a local guide. They’re also a great way to meet other travelers. If you’re not sure where to find one, check with a local hostel.
Consider Less Expensive Destinations
The cost of living and traveling through some European countries is greater than in others. Research and choose your destinations carefully based on the amount you’re looking to spend. Transportation and lodging costs can be quite high in countries like Iceland, Norway, and Switzerland compared to Hungary and Poland, where your dollar can get you more.
Note: Northern Europe tends to be a little pricer than Southern Europe, and prices are often the most affordable in Eastern Europe.
Book lodgings in advance
With peak season drawing more travelers than ever, hostels and other budget-friendly accommodations are filling up fast. Booking your stay in advance helps you avoid the stress and cost of having to settle for a pricey hotel as the only option left nearby.
