Smart Saving Strategies for Smart Travelers
Many travelers assume Europe is prohibitively expensive, but with the right strategies, you can explore this incredible continent without emptying your wallet. At TropicGo Vacations, we've helped thousands of travelers discover affordable European adventures.
This guide combines our team's insider knowledge with proven budget travel techniques to help you experience more while spending less.
Expert tips to stretch your travel budget further
Visit during shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October) for lower prices and fewer crowds. Avoid July-August peak season when prices skyrocket.
Ryanair, EasyJet, and Wizz Air offer cheap flights between European cities. Book early, travel light (avoid checked baggage fees), and check airport locations.
Save on accommodation while traveling between cities with overnight trains. Book couchettes for comfort on longer journeys.
For extensive travel, Eurail passes can save money. Calculate point-to-point tickets first to ensure it's worthwhile for your itinerary.
European cities are walkable with excellent public transportation. Avoid taxis and purchase transit passes for unlimited travel.
Modern hostels offer private rooms at hotel-quality for less. Look for ones with kitchens to save on meals.
Consider Airbnb, monastery stays, university dorms (summer), or house-sitting for unique, affordable lodging.
Accommodations just 15-20 minutes from major attractions can cost 30-50% less with good transit connections.
Shop at markets, bakeries, and grocery stores. Have your main meal at lunch when many restaurants offer cheaper prix-fixe menus.
European parks make perfect picnic spots. Assemble cheese, bread, fruit, and wine from local markets for memorable meals at low cost.
In most European countries, tap water is safe and free. Carry a reusable bottle to avoid paying for bottled water.
Many museums have free days (often first Sunday of the month). Churches, parks, and walking tours offer incredible experiences at no cost.
Cards like Paris Museum Pass or Berlin WelcomeCard include transit and attraction discounts. Calculate if they'll save money based on your plans.
Eastern Europe (Prague, Budapest, Krakow) offers similar experiences to Western Europe at 30-50% lower costs.
Staying longer in fewer places reduces transportation costs and often qualifies for weekly accommodation discounts.
Where your money goes furthest
Stunning architecture, world-class beer (cheaper than water!), and affordable public transit make Prague a budget traveler's dream. Free walking tours show you the highlights.
Thermal baths, ruin bars, and hearty cuisine at low prices. The Budapest Card offers unlimited transit and museum discounts.
Beautiful Old Town, poignant history, and delicious pierogi at bargain prices. Day trips to Auschwitz and Wieliczka Salt Mine are affordable.
Sunny weather, pasteis de nata, and affordable seafood. The Lisboa Card covers transit and attractions. Day trips to Sintra are inexpensive.
Quality experiences at affordable prices
From RM4,999
12-day tour covering Prague, Budapest, Krakow, and Vienna
From RM5,499
10-day Portugal and Spain itinerary
From RM4,299
Discover Croatia, Montenegro, and Bosnia
These tools and websites will help you plan an affordable European adventure:
Rome2Rio - Compare all transport options between destinations
Trainline - Book trains across Europe in one place
Skyscanner - Find the cheapest flights and set price alerts
Hostelworld - Best hostels with verified reviews
Booking.com - Filter by price and guest ratings
TrustedHousesitters - Free stays in exchange for pet care
EatWith - Affordable meals with locals
Guruwalk - Free walking tours (tip-based)
Rick Steves Audio Europe - Free self-guided tour apps