Travelling around Europe might seem like a pricey affair, but it doesn’t have to be. If you’re wondering how to travel on a European budget, you’re in the right place. We have some top tips to help you make that dream trip happen without breaking the bank. Alright, let’s get cracking!

No doubt cities like London and Paris are on the wish list of many travellers, but let’s face it, they’ve become outrageously pricey, especially if you’re watching the pennies.

That’s why Central and Eastern Europe make brilliant alternatives if you’re wondering how to explore Europe on a budget. Cities like Budapest, Kraków, and Sofia are well-known for being easy on the pocket compared to the likes of London or Paris in Western Europe.

Still itching to visit those famous European cities? Plan your trip for the off-peak season! Just a heads-up: different cities have their slow seasons. So, if you play your cards right, you can time your travels to catch each place when it’s at its most affordable.

For instance, southern spots like Barcelona or Lisbon are usually quieter and cheaper in early spring. Meanwhile, northern gems like Stockholm or Copenhagen might have better deals during the winter.

How do you travel around Europe on a budget? Cutting costs on where you stay is crucial. Have you thought about bunking in hostels? Hostels offer the basics, which is all you need if you’re busy seeing the sights rather than chilling in your room.

You can splash out on unforgettable experiences like fancy meals, guided tours, or unique activities with the cash you save. It’s a great way to enjoy the best bits of your holiday without blowing your budget.

Another tip on how to travel cheaply in Europe: booking a place near the city centre is good. It’s convenient if you’re only in town for a quick trip and want to make the most of your sightseeing.

It’s not all roses, though. Staying right in the city centre can cost you more, and eating out or shopping in those central spots can hit your wallet harder than in quieter areas. But don’t fret—look out for deals and discounts. You might find that those central places have some decent offers to help keep costs down.

If you’re after a different way to manage how to travel Europe on a low budget, consider a work exchange. It might be a bit unconventional, but it’s worth a try!

With work exchanges, you often get free digs and sometimes even your meals just for putting in a few hours of work each day. There’s a bunch of work exchange programmes out there, whether it’s pitching in on farms, assisting at hostels, or getting involved with local charities.

Always wondering, “How much should I budget for a trip to Europe” regarding flights? It’s a common worry about pricey airfares, but you don’t have to fork out a fortune. Fly with budget airlines, and you’ll be glad you did!

Bear in mind that this budget airline tip comes with its quirks. For starters, budget airlines often lure you in with low fares but then sting you with extra fees for checked baggage and picking seats. Watch for these extras and plan accordingly to dodge any surprise costs.

Grabbing a rail pass is another savvy move for travelling to Europe on a low budget. It’s a handy trick to have in your back pocket when sorting out your trip.

A European rail pass, like the Eurail or Interrail Pass, lets you zip around multiple countries or regions for one set price. It’s often cheaper than grabbing individual tickets, especially if you’re hitting up several spots.

Heard of plat du jour? It’s a fancy way of saying meal of the day. These deals tend to be kinder on the wallet compared to the regular menu.

What’s excellent about plat du jour is you often get a few courses (starter, primary, and sometimes dessert) for a set price—way better than ordering bits and bobs separately. And you’ll get to try local or seasonal dishes at a decent price!

Street food is like the cherry on top of your holiday sundae. Not only do you get to try out genuine local dishes, but it also helps you save a few quid on meals. It’s usually cheaper than eating in restaurants so that you can grab a tasty bite or snack for much less.

Just keep an eye on how clean the vendor and their setup are. Go for busy stalls where the food’s moving quickly—that’s a good sign of fresh ingredients and decent hygiene. After all, you don’t want to spend your whole trip feeling crook in bed, right?

In the end, one of the best tips on how to visit Europe cheaply is to visit the free attractions in each city you visit. You’ll be surprised just how many spots and activities cost nothing!

Why not check out free festivals and events, browse markets, and watch some street performers? Our favourites are the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in Scotland and King’s Day in the Netherlands. Free walking tours are a great way to see the city if you don't mind a stroll.

All right, these tips help you understand how to travel on a European budget without missing out on the best bits. Ready to start your European adventure? Head over to Traveloka to sort out your Sydney to Bangkok flights, accommodation, exciting activities and more—all without breaking the bank.