How to Travel Europe on $50 a Day

Europe can be as expensive or as affordable as you make it. Travelers regularly get by on around $50 a day — even less in the east and south — by being deliberate about the big three costs: beds, transport and food.

Sleep smart

Accommodation is usually the biggest line item. Hostel dorms, guesthouses and budget rooms in smaller towns keep costs down, and booking a few days ahead beats walk-up prices. In cities, staying a little outside the centre and using public transport saves a lot.

Eat like a local, not a tourist

Cook some meals if your accommodation has a kitchen, shop at markets and supermarkets, and treat restaurant meals as occasional highlights. A bakery breakfast, a market-picnic lunch and one cooked dinner is both cheap and satisfying. Tap water is safe across most of Europe — carry a bottle.

Move overland

Budget buses and regional trains are far cheaper than flights once you factor in transfers and baggage fees. Booking rail and bus tickets in advance unlocks the lowest fares. Overnight trains and buses save a night's accommodation too.

Lean on free experiences

Europe's best experiences are often free: walking historic centres, swimming, hiking, and visiting churches and parks. Many museums have free days or evenings, and free walking tours (tip-based) are a great orientation.

Travel in shoulder season

Visiting in spring or autumn rather than peak summer drops accommodation prices, thins the crowds and still delivers good weather — the single biggest lever on your daily budget.