Overview
Europe packs an extraordinary density of cultures, cuisines, and history into a continent smaller than the US or Australia. From the fjords of Norway to the beaches of Greece, the medieval towns of Transylvania to the design capitals of Scandinavia, Europe offers something for every interest and budget. Excellent rail networks and budget airlines make multi-country trips easy and affordable.
The euro (EUR) is used in 20 countries, while others have their own currencies (often cheaper). Costs vary dramatically: Eastern Europe and the Balkans (Bulgaria, Romania, Albania, Bosnia) offer incredible value at $30-$60/day, while Western European capitals average $100-$200/day, and Scandinavia and Switzerland push $200-$400/day. Shoulder season (April-May and September-October) offers the best balance of weather and price across the continent.
Daily Budget Breakdown
Budget ($30-$80/day): Stay in hostels or budget hotels ($15-$60/night), eat at bakeries, markets, and street food ($8-$20/day), use budget airlines and trains ($20-$80 between cities), and join free walking tours in every major city.
Mid-Range ($100-$250/day): Book 3-4 star hotels ($80-$200/night), dine at local restaurants ($25-$50/day), travel by rail or car ($30-$80/day), and visit major museums and attractions ($10-$25 each).
Luxury ($350-$700+/day): Reserve luxury hotels ($250-$700+/night), enjoy Michelin-starred dining ($60-$150/day), travel by first-class rail or private transfer ($100-$300), and book exclusive experiences ($50-$300).
How to Save Money in Europe
- Focus on Eastern Europe and the Balkans where daily costs are 50-70% below Western Europe — Bulgaria, Albania, Poland, and Bosnia offer extraordinary value.
- Fly budget airlines (Ryanair, easyJet, Wizz Air) for fares as low as $20-$50 between European cities.
- Take free walking tours — every major European city has them (tip-based, usually $5-$15).
- Eat at markets, bakeries, and takeaway spots instead of sit-down restaurants for 40-60% savings.
- Travel in shoulder season (April-May, September-October) for 20-40% lower accommodation and fewer crowds.
Worth the Splurge
- A multi-country train journey — the Swiss Alps by Glacier Express, or Paris to Venice on the night train ($50-$200 per segment).
- A food tour in Italy, Spain, or Portugal — learn to eat like a local while discovering hidden gems ($40-$80).
- A Mediterranean sailing trip through the Greek Islands or Croatian coast ($100-$300/day).
- The great European art museums: the Louvre, Uffizi, Prado, Rijksmuseum — bucket-list cultural institutions ($15-$25 each).
