The key to a successful budget trip to Europe is being prepared. It would be best if you had good quality, comfortable shoes for all your hiking, a comfortable sleeping bag in case you find yourself faced with a sub-standard bed, and a good VPN server so you can pay for things quickly and securely online. Most places in Europe have free public Wi-Fi, which is great for keeping in touch with family, searching for something to do near your accommodation, and staying up to date with your online sports betting.
Europe on a Tight Budget
That’s one of the advantages of having a small budget to spend on traveling: you may be forced to settle for less popular destinations, and you’ll likely avoid most of the crowds. In addition, you’ll probably get a better view of the local culture than if you go somewhere more touristy.
Bulgaria
Bulgaria can be one of the cheapest places to visit, but only if you know how to find cheap accommodation. The best option is often to rent an apartment rather than stay in a hotel. That way, you’ll pay the local market price, not the inflated tourist price. A couple on a budget can stay in Bulgaria for less than €50 per day, and for €80, you can enjoy a little more comfort.
The main activities you can enjoy in Bulgaria have to do with the natural environment. There are magnificent hiking trails to explore, and the white sand beaches along the Black Sea coast are spectacular. You can view historic castles and other buildings, and in winter, there’s skiing. Otherwise, if you’re not energetic enough for those activities, you can sit comfortably at the National Opera and Ballet Theatre and enjoy great-value shows for your money.
Bosnia
Bosnia is also one of the best value-for-money European destinations to visit. The two main tourist centers are Sarajevo and Mostar, which may have slightly inflated prices. Everywhere else, however, food, drink, accommodation, and transport are all fairly cheap.
If you don’t require very luxurious accommodation and are traveling alone, you should be able to live comfortably, and even go on a few trips for €50 or less per day. If you take your lead from the locals, you can eat and drink for less than €10. A couple could do quite well for themselves on €75.
Montenegro
Montenegro is famous for the forts and walled cities built during the height of the Roman empire. The countryside lends itself to exploration by bicycle or on foot if you’re energetic. In the Eastern part of the country, you can enjoy hiking, climbing, or river rafting.
Tourists don’t tend to venture too far from the seaside towns, but you can buy reasonably priced meals or groceries even in tourist places. The most reasonable option for accommodation is one of the many Airbnbs, which you can find for under €50 per night (or two people can stay in a double room in a hotel, in Herceg Novi only, for a similar price).
The Best Time to Visit Europe on a Budget
Summer is the peak season when Europe is most congested. During this period, prices also rise. For a low-cost vacation, we recommend traveling in the spring or fall. Spring and Fall are still warm with nice weather, fewer tourists, and lower costs.
Winter is bitterly cold, especially in the deep south, which isn’t enjoyable. On the other hand, the Christmas season is spectacular, with a plethora of Christmas markets and festivities! Because the days are shorter in the north, you’ll lose time traveling or visiting in the winter.
