Intro:Dreaming of Europe but working with a tight budget? Good news—you can plan a full European trip under $1,200! This guide breaks down everything: flights, accommodation, food, local travel, and sightseeing. With the right planning tools like KAYAK, budget travel is more than possible—it’s easy.
📍 Step 1: Choose Affordable Destinations
Pick countries in Eastern and Central Europe, where costs are lower but experiences are just as rich. Great options include:
- Poland (Krakow, Warsaw)
- Hungary (Budapest)
- Czech Republic (Prague)
- Portugal (Lisbon, Porto)
- Greece (Athens, Thessaloniki)
✈️ Step 2: Book Smart Flights ($400–$500)
Use KAYAK to find budget-friendly round-trip flights from major cities. Set price alerts, fly mid-week, and choose budget airlines to save more.
🏨 Step 3: Stay in Hostels or Budget Hotels ($200–$250)
Use KAYAK to compare hostels, guesthouses, and affordable hotels. Many include free breakfast and Wi-Fi. Average cost: $20–$30 per night.
🍽️ Step 4: Eat Local and Smart ($100–$150)
Skip touristy restaurants. Eat at local bakeries, street food stalls, or use supermarket food for picnics. Apps like Google Maps or TripAdvisor help you find cheap, highly rated spots.
🚉 Step 5: Use Budget Transport Options ($80–$100)
- Use trains and buses between cities—book early for discounts.
- In-city: walk, rent bikes, or use 24-hour transport passes.
- Use KAYAK to explore car rentals if traveling in groups.
🎟️ Step 6: Explore Free or Cheap Attractions ($50–$100)
Europe is full of museums, castles, parks, and landmarks—many are free or under $10. Look for:
- Free walking tours in major cities
- City tourism cards (include multiple attractions + public transport)
- Discount days for museums or galleries
💰 Total Budget Breakdown (7–10 Days)
| Category | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Flights | $400 – $500 |
| Accommodation | $200 – $250 |
| Food | $100 – $150 |
| Transport | $80 – $100 |
| Activities | $50 – $100 |
| Total | $900 – $1,100 |
✅ Bonus Tips
- Travel off-season (March–May or September–November) for cheaper rates.
- Use KAYAK's Explore tool to find where you can fly within your budget.
- Pack light to avoid checked baggage fees.
- Use international debit cards to avoid high currency exchange rates.
Final Thoughts
Traveling Europe on a budget isn't just a dream—it’s doable with the right strategy. From comparing flights to finding cheap stays, KAYAK makes every step easier. Plan ahead, spend wisely, and make your European getaway happen for under $1,200.
Start planning smart—your affordable European adventure awaits!
