How to Travel Europe on $50 a Day – Yes, It’s Totally Possible!

Dreaming of wandering through charming cobblestone streets, tasting authentic local food, and soaking in centuries of history across Europe — but worried it’s only possible if you win the lottery? What if I told you it’s absolutely doable for $50 a day or less?

That’s not a fantasy. It’s real. I’ve done it across almost every corner of the continent. And in this guide, I’m breaking it all down — how to travel Europe on a budget without giving up comfort, fun, or unforgettable experiences.

Let’s dive into the practical magic of budget travel in Europe, one category at a time: accommodation, food, transportation, and activities.

Start Smart: Pick Budget-Friendly Destinations

Before booking flights or hostels, choose your countries wisely. Western Europe — think France, Germany, and the UK — is incredible but pricey. For budget travelers, Eastern and Southern Europe are where the real treasures (and savings) lie.

Top affordable destinations:

• 🇵🇱 Poland: Beautiful cities like Krakow and Gdansk, plus delicious, cheap food.

• 🇭🇺 Hungary: Budapest is a gem with thermal baths and riverside views.

• 🇨🇿 Czech Republic: Prague is dreamy and beer is cheaper than water.

• 🇵🇹 Portugal: Beaches, culture, and amazing pastries.

• 🇬🇷 Greece: Stunning islands and rich history at a fraction of the price.

You can still visit Western Europe’s stars like Paris or London — just limit your time there or stay in nearby towns and take day trips. It’s all about balance.

Sleep Cheap (or Even for Free)

Accommodation can make or break your budget — but there are plenty of clever ways to keep costs low.

🛏️ 1. Free Stays

• House-sitting or pet-sitting via platforms like TrustedHousesitters.

• Couchsurfing for local hospitality and cultural exchange.

• Wild camping in countries like Norway, Finland, and Scotland — legal, beautiful, and free (just check local laws!).

⛺ 2. Budget Camping

Campgrounds in Europe are well-maintained and often come with extra perks like clean bathrooms, restaurants, and even pools. In Eastern Europe, you can snag a spot for as little as €10–15 a night.

🛌 3. Hostels

For solo travelers, shared dorms are the cheapest route:

• Eastern Europe: €10–15

• Western Europe: €20–30

Couples or friends can split private hostel rooms for €30–80 depending on the region.

🏡 4. Apartments

Renting a private apartment through Airbnb or Booking.com gives you comfort, privacy, and a kitchen — which helps save on meals too. Ideal for small groups.

🏨 5. Budget Hotels

Chains like Ibis Budget or B&B Hotels are reliable. Book early and travel off-season to score the best rates.

Eat Like a Local, Spend Like a Pro

🥖 Embrace Street Food and Markets

Skip overpriced tourist restaurants and head for the stalls and markets:

• Berlin: Currywurst or kebabs

• Spain: Churros con chocolate

• Poland: Pierogi at a milk bar

• Bosnia: Burek heaven

🍳 Cook Your Own Meals

Buy fresh ingredients from local supermarkets and cook in your hostel or Airbnb. Even just preparing your own breakfast and one meal a day can cut your food budget in half.

Bonus: Picnic in a park with French wine and cheese? Très romantique — and budget-friendly!

🍽️ Avoid Tourist Traps

Restaurants near major landmarks often charge double for mediocre food. Wander off the main streets, check Google reviews, or ask your host where they eat.

Move Smart: Budget Transportation Tips

Europe’s transportation network is chef’s kiss — and doesn’t have to cost much.

🚍 In the City

• Use public transport passes (daily or weekly)

• Skip taxis — metros and trams are faster and cheaper

✈️ Between Countries

• Budget airlines like Ryanair, Wizz Air, and EasyJet can get you across borders for as low as $30 if you book ahead.

🚆 By Land

• Use FlixBus or BlaBlaCar for ultra-cheap intercity travel

• For trains, look into Eurail passes or national railway discounts

Trains in countries like Spain, France, and Germany are fast, reliable, and scenic. It’s part of the experience!

Do More, Spend Less: Free & Low-Cost Activities

You don’t have to spend big to make big memories.

👟 Free Walking Tours

Found in most major cities — just tip your guide. Check platforms like GuruWalk or FreeTour.com.

🖼️ Free Museum Days

Many top museums, like the Louvre in Paris, offer free entry on specific days. Plan ahead and arrive early to beat the crowds.

🏰 Enjoy the Outdoors

• Wander historic squares and churches

• Hike through national parks

• Relax on Mediterranean beaches

Nature is the best kind of free.

Daily Budget Breakdown: Travel Europe for Under $50

Here’s how a full day in Europe might look on the cheap:

Stick to the low end by mixing and matching strategies: free walking tours + dorm beds + street food + public transport = big savings.

Final Tip: Be Flexible

Want to get the most out of your $50/day European adventure? Stay flexible.

• Travel during the off-season (spring/fall)

• Be open to last-minute deals

• Say yes to new experiences — even if they’re not in your original plan

Europe is full of surprises, and traveling on a budget doesn’t mean missing out. In fact, it might make your experience even richer.

So what are you waiting for? Europe is calling — and yes, you can answer on $50 a day.

Ready to start planning? Drop your dream destination in the comments or check out my full country-by-country budget travel guides for more insider tips!