According to a 2024 report by Hostelworld, backpacking across Europe can cost as little as €50 per day, while budget-minded travelers aiming for hotels and some comfort can expect to spend around €75-€100 per day. Let’s discover the tips to make the best Europe travel plan possible!
Here are 9 travel hacks to create the best Europe travel plan on a budget:
1. Travel Like a Local (But with a Smartphone):
Go for something other than the prominent tourist places; instead, choose to live like the locals do. Before you travel, select city transport like buses, trains, or even ferries to go from one city to another. Besides, it is far cheaper than taxis, and by doing so, you can enjoy not only the spectacle but also interact with locals, which gives you a more realistic experience. Take advantage of free Wi-Fi hotspots or purchase a local SIM card for navigation with Google Maps on the go and for local transportation apps within the city center.
2. Pack Light, Explore More:
Sometimes, hauling around heavy luggage requires you to spend that money on bags to guarantee that you can travel with them. Pack light and multi-functional clothes that can be used in combination to create distinct outfits for various conditions. Clothes that can be worn multiple times will save space, and you will be ready for any weather conditions! This gives you the chance to cruise over the cities limitlessly, having your baggage worries blown off. Another plus factor is the added room for the unique things you love to buy as memories, which you might pick up at different places.
3. Master the Art of Free Activities:
Most European cities offer a plethora of free activities to enrich your travel experience. Many museums have free admission days, while historical landmarks often hold free guided tours. Explore sprawling parks, visit free outdoor markets, or attend free concerts and cultural events. Research these free options beforehand and plan your itinerary accordingly.
Several European cities, like Prague and Berlin, offer free walking tours led by passionate locals. These tours provide excellent historical insights and can be a great way to get your bearings.
4. Befriend Hostels and Budget-Friendly Accommodation:
Hostels are not only for backpackers because everything is designed to provide support, protection, and a sustainable experience. Many hostels are the choice for both tourists and locals, and they provide upscale, private rooms and even family-oriented neighborhoods at a lower price than hotels. Hostel kitchens are usually shared, so you get the chance to cook for yourself, avoiding expensive restaurant visits, and the shared kitchen will help you meet some new travel companions.
Pro Tip: Look for hostels that offer complimentary breakfast or walking tours to maximize your budget further.
5. Embrace the Off-Season:
Summer, being the highest season of tourism, may also come with the highest prices. Think about visiting Europe during spring and fall, which are the shoulder seasons as far as good weather and crowds are concerned, and also that is the time when accommodation costs tend to decline. To your surprise, you may see local traditions such as weekend festivals and Christmas markets that are full of charm during the winter.
Instead of a gondola ride in a crowded Venice tour during July, visit in April and enjoy a walking tour through the enchanting canals without feeling like you're part of a human wave.
6. Embrace the Power of Self-Catering:
Dining out constantly can quickly deplete your travel funds. Opt for self-catering whenever possible. Stock up on groceries at local stores and supermarkets to prepare your meals in hostel kitchens or budget-friendly apartments. This also allows you to experience the local cuisine authentically, trying fresh, seasonal ingredients.
7. Channel Your Inner Chef with Picnics:
Moving on to another topic, with regard to food, carry some reusable containers and cutlery, and this will save money when you have picnics. Pick up some fresh bread, cheese, some fruits, and cured meat, of course, from the local markets, and grab a good spot that is near a park or beautiful river for a lovely lunchtime. This is not only a cost-effective way of refreshing your taste buds, but it also makes room for you to relish the local ambiance and feel the fresh air that the natural breeze shall keep coming.
8. Invest in a City Pass (if it Makes Sense):
Though this is not the least expensive choice at all times, the majority is dependent on how you travel. These passes provide you with a discount to go through any famous highlights, just like it often happens that you might be planning to visit more museums and other attractions, and it could easily save you money. Nevertheless, be sure to analyze the attractions being included and your trip plan before investing in a pass.
The Paris Pass offers access to many top attractions, including the Louvre and Musee d'Orsay. If these are on your must-see list and you plan on using public transportation extensively, it might make Sense financially.
9. Consider Alternative Destinations:
While iconic cities like Paris and Italy have undeniable magic, exploring lesser-known European gems can be a budget-friendly revelation. Places like Krakow in Poland, Budapest in Hungary, or Prague in the Czech Republic offer stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant cultures, all at a fraction of the cost of their Western European counterparts.
A delicious three-course meal with drinks in a traditional Krakow restaurant can cost around €15, whereas a similar experience in Paris might set you back €30 or more.
With careful planning and these budget-friendly tips, your best Europe travel plan doesn't have to break the bank! From choosing affordable destinations and shoulder seasons to utilizing public transportation and free activities, you can experience the magic of Europe without sacrificing comfort. For expert travel advice and personalized planning, consider partnering with Guidester! Remember, the "best" travel plan is the one that fits your interests and budget. So, grab your backpack, embrace new cultures, and embark on your unforgettable European journey.
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