The Ultimate Budget Traveler’s Guide to Europe — Cheap Stays, Flights, Buses, and Trains

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Europe on a budget? Absolutely doable. Forget the idea that you need a trust fund or a lottery win to explore the continent. Do you dream of strolling through Paris, savoring Barcelona’s mouth-watering tapas, or chasing the northern lights in Norway?

Since moving to Italy years ago, I’ve learned this is all possible on a shoestring budget. The key is knowing where to find deals and how to travel wisely.

This guide lays it all out—step by step. By the time you finish reading, you’ll have everything you need to book your trip without breaking the bank.

Step 1: Booking Affordable Transportation

The budget traveler’s golden rule: be flexible. The more easygoing you are about dates and destinations, the more you save. Flights, buses, and trains have tricks for scoring cheap fares.

Mastering them can mean massive savings. With the right approach, transportation won’t eat up your budget, leaving you more to spend on food, experiences, and adventures.

Cheap Flights: Ryanair, EasyJet and Kiwi.com

For ultra-low-cost airfare, Ryanair and EasyJet are your best bets. They specialize in budget flights across Europe, often cheaper than a train ticket.

Just watch out for baggage fees—a surprise charge for a carry-on can double your fare if you’re not careful. To get the best deals, book early, be flexible with departure airports, and avoid peak travel seasons.

For the absolute lowest fares, use Kiwi.com. It pieces together flights from different airlines to create the cheapest possible itinerary. Bonus: its flexible search option helps you explore destinations within your budget, perfect for spontaneous trips.

Buses: FlixBus and Eurolines

Not in a rush? Buses are a budget-friendly way to travel. I’ve spent countless hours on FlixBus, and while it’s not glamorous, it’s unbeatable for budget travel.

I once took an overnight FlixBus from Paris to Berlin for only €25—and saved on a night’s accommodation.

The buses are modern, with Wi-Fi and charging ports, making long rides much easier. Eurolines is another solid coach option, covering over 600 destinations.

It’s especially useful for reaching towns that don’t have train connections. Overnight buses can also double as accommodation, saving you even more money.

Trains: Interrail and Omio

For train lovers, the Interrail Pass (for EU residents) and Eurail Pass (for non-EU travelers) offer unlimited rail travel across multiple countries.

If you’re planning frequent city-hopping, this can be a cost-effective option. European trains are efficient, comfy, and scenic—perfect for daydreaming while gazing out the window at the passing landscape.

When I need to compare train, bus, and flight prices, Omio is my go-to. It’s a super convenient search engine that shows you the cheapest travel options without the hassle of checking multiple websites.

Step 2: Finding Affordable Places to Stay

Accommodation can eat into your budget fast. But Europe has tons of affordable options. There is something for everyone. 

You can be into social hostels, cozy apartments, or even free stays. A little research and planning can help you find great places to stay without overspending.

Hostels: Hostelworld

I’ve met some of the most interesting people in hostels. If you’re down for a dorm-style living—or want a private room in a hostel—check out Hostelworld.

It has everything from basic backpacker hostels to stylish boutique stays—without the boutique price tag.

Many offer complimentary breakfast, communal kitchens, and social events. Just imagine, you can save money and meet fellow travelers.

Airbnb: Budget-Friendly Private Rooms

For a more local experience, Airbnb can be surprisingly affordable, especially if you book a private room instead of an entire apartment.

Staying outside the tourist hotspots can also cut costs and lend a more authentic experience.

Many hosts offer discounts for longer stays, so if you’re into slow travel, you can save even more.

Couchsurfing: Free Stays with Locals

If you’re feeling adventurous, Couchsurfing connects travelers with locals who offer a free place to stay. It’s the right choice for budget travelers who enjoy cultural exchange over luxury.

Plus, staying with a local can lead to unique experiences—like a home-cooked meal or insider tips on hidden gems in the city.

Step 3: Getting Around Without Overspending

In Europe, public transport is king. Skip pricey taxis and opt for metros, trams, and bikes instead.

Most cities have fantastic transit systems that make getting around cheap and easy. Learn how to use them effectively, and you’ll save a ton.

• City Passes: Many cities offer unlimited public transport passes for a set number of days. These are often way cheaper than buying single tickets, especially if you plan to move around a lot.
• Bikes & Scooters: Cities like Amsterdam, Copenhagen, and Berlin have bike-sharing programs that are often cheaper than daily metro fares. Cycling is budget-friendly and also a great way to see the city.
• Rideshares & Carpooling: Apps like BlaBlaCar let you share rides with drivers heading in your direction, often cheaper than trains and buses. Bonus: it’s also a great way to meet locals and get insider travel tips.

Step 4: Eating Well Without Overspending

Dining out can quickly tank your budget, but you don’t have to survive on instant noodles. Skip the overpriced tourist traps and wander about markets, bakeries, and taste the local street food.

• Supermarkets & Local Markets: Buying fresh bread, cheese, and fruit from markets can save you a fortune. Think of it as a picnic with a view—whether in a park or by a scenic river.
• Street Food & Bakeries: Cities like Berlin (currywurst), Lisbon (pastel de nata), and Istanbul (simit) have amazing eats for a song and you experience local flavors without overspending.
• Lunch Specials: Many restaurants offer affordable lunch menus that are a steal compared to dinner prices. If you want to enjoy a sit-down meal, lunchtime is the best time to do it.

Travel Smart, Not Expensive

Traveling Europe on a budget is about making wise choices. With the right mix of budget-friendly transport, affordable stays, and money-saving hacks, you can happily roam the splendors of the continent without stretching your finances.

At the end of the day, the magic of travel isn’t in how much you spend; it’s in the experiences, the people you meet, and the memories you create.