When you think of traveling through Europe, your mind likely conjures images of famous landmarks—the Eiffel Tower, Big Ben, or the Colosseum. And while these iconic sites are certainly worth a visit, there's something magical about experiencing Europe in a way that feels more authentic, more intimate.
Imagine wandering through hidden alleyways, sipping coffee in a tucked-away café that only locals frequent, or stumbling upon a weekend market filled with handmade treasures. These are the moments that create lasting memories, and they don’t have to come with a hefty price tag.
In this guide, we’ll explore how to travel Europe affordably, all while diving deep into local cultures and avoiding the typical tourist traps. From budget hacks to finding hidden gems, I’ll share some tried-and-true tips to help you make the most of your European adventure, without emptying your savings.
There’s a huge difference between visiting a place and truly experiencing it. Sure, you can hit all the tourist spots and check off landmarks from your list, but if you want to feel the soul of a city, you need to go where the locals go. It’s in the neighborhood bakeries, the family-run taverns, the quiet parks, and the local festivals where the real magic happens.
When you travel like a local, you’ll:
Triptuition: What do you want to feel when you visit a new place? Do you want to blend in and live like a local for a week, or are you more focused on ticking off famous spots? Your answer will guide the way you travel.
Many travelers default to Europe’s major cities—Paris, Rome, Barcelona—but the continent is full of smaller towns and less popular regions that offer just as much charm, if not more, at a fraction of the price.
If you’re seeking a European adventure that won’t break the bank, Eastern Europe is where you’ll find some of the best deals. Countries like Poland, Hungary, and Bulgaria boast rich histories, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scenes, all while remaining far more affordable than their Western European counterparts.
For instance, Krakow in Poland offers medieval charm and fascinating World War II history, while Hungary’s Budapest gives you the chance to enjoy thermal baths and stunning riverside views. The best part? The cost of accommodation, food, and activities is typically much lower than in cities like Paris or London.
Trip Trick: Research less-touristy cities in popular countries. For example, instead of heading straight to Rome, why not explore Bologna or Lecce in Italy? Both cities offer incredible food and rich history but without the overwhelming crowds.
Staying in a hotel might feel like the default option, but if you're aiming to discover Europe like a local, it’s time to think outside the box when it comes to accommodations.
One of the best ways to experience local life is by staying in an Airbnb or a short-term rental. Whether it's a cozy apartment in a quiet neighborhood or a room in a family’s home, staying in a local house offers a more authentic experience than any hotel can provide. Plus, you'll often find that renting an entire apartment is significantly cheaper than staying in a central hotel.
Another advantage? You’ll have access to a kitchen, which means you can save on meals by cooking at home with fresh ingredients picked up from the local market.
Have you ever thought about house-sitting while you travel? It’s an amazing way to save money on accommodation while living like a local—literally. Websites like TrustedHousesitters or MindMyHouse connect homeowners with travelers willing to look after their homes (and sometimes pets) while they’re away. It’s a win-win: you get free accommodation, and they get peace of mind.
Trip Trick: If you’re planning an extended trip, consider setting up a profile on a house-sitting site in advance. While competition can be stiff in major cities, smaller towns or countryside homes might offer better opportunities.
Food is one of the greatest joys of travel, but eating out three times a day can quickly drain your wallet. The good news is there are plenty of ways to enjoy delicious, local cuisine without overspending.
One of the best ways to eat like a local and save money at the same time is by hitting up street food stalls or local markets. In cities like Madrid or Berlin, food markets aren’t just a place to buy groceries—they’re social hubs where locals gather to eat, drink, and catch up.
In Barcelona, for example, the Mercado de La Boqueria offers a wide variety of affordable tapas, fresh seafood, and fruit. Grab some jamón ibérico, a piece of cheese, and a baguette, and you’ve got yourself an authentic (and budget-friendly) picnic.
In Budapest, don’t miss the Great Market Hall, where you can feast on hearty Hungarian goulash or pick up local ingredients for a homemade meal.
Trip Tale: I once stumbled upon a tiny market in Prague, tucked away from the main tourist routes. The locals were selling freshly made trdelník (a sweet pastry rolled in sugar) and mulled wine on a crisp autumn morning. I spent just a few euros and had one of the best breakfasts of my trip.
Grocery stores in Europe are a goldmine for budget travelers. Not only are they filled with local specialties, but they’re also much cheaper than eating out for every meal. Pick up some cheese, cured meats, fresh bread, and a bottle of wine, and you’re set for an incredible (and affordable) picnic in one of the city’s many parks or gardens.
Triptuition: Do you want to experience Europe through its high-end restaurants, or would you rather sit in a quiet park, enjoying a meal made from fresh, local ingredients? Sometimes, the simplest meals are the most memorable.
One of the biggest expenses while traveling is getting from place to place, but with a little planning, you can save big on transportation costs.
Europe’s train system is famous for being efficient, scenic, and, if booked in advance, surprisingly affordable. The key to scoring great train deals is booking early, especially on popular routes like Paris to Amsterdam or Berlin to Prague. Keep an eye out for regional passes, which often allow unlimited travel within a certain area for a set number of days.
Trip Trick: If you’re planning to visit multiple countries, consider a Eurail pass. It offers flexible travel between European cities and can save you money if you’re hopping between destinations frequently.
While trains are romantic and convenient, buses can be an even cheaper option, especially for longer journeys. Companies like FlixBus and Eurolines offer routes connecting major cities across Europe, often at prices far lower than the cost of a train ticket.
I once took an overnight bus from Vienna to Venice. While the trip was long, it saved me the cost of a night in a hotel and allowed me to wake up in a new city, ready to explore. Sometimes, the journey is just as important as the destination!
Once you’ve arrived at your destination, one of the best ways to explore is by foot. Walking is not only free, but it also allows you to stumble upon hidden gems you might otherwise miss. If you need to cover more ground, take advantage of local public transit systems. Many European cities have affordable, easy-to-navigate bus, tram, or metro systems.
Triptuition: So, how can you really experience the essence of a city? Sometimes, walking through the quiet streets or taking a local bus can reveal a side of the city that tourists rarely see.
While cities like Paris and Venice are on every traveler’s bucket list, Europe is full of lesser-known destinations that offer incredible experiences without the crowds (or the high prices).
While Lisbon and Porto are increasingly popular, there’s much more to Portugal than these two cities. Explore the stunning Algarve region, with its golden beaches and hidden caves, or venture into the lesser-known towns like Évora, a charming city filled with Roman ruins, medieval churches, and beautiful squares.
Nestled between Italy and Croatia, Slovenia often flies under the radar of many travelers, but it’s a paradise for nature lovers. The capital, Ljubljana, is a compact, green city filled with riverside cafes and outdoor markets. Not far away, Lake Bled offers stunning views, hiking trails, and the perfect place for a peaceful day trip.
For a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, head to the Balkans. Countries like Albania, Montenegro, and North Macedonia are still relatively undiscovered by mass tourism, which means you’ll find untouched natural beauty, welcoming locals, and lower prices. Explore the dramatic coastline of Montenegro or hike the peaks of Albania’s Accursed Mountains for an unforgettable adventure.
Discovering Europe like a local isn’t just about saving money—it’s about experiencing the continent in a more meaningful, authentic way. By stepping off the beaten path, eating where the locals eat, and staying in neighborhoods where real people live, you’ll uncover a side of Europe that few tourists ever see.
Whether you’re wandering through the narrow streets of a hidden village or chatting with a market vendor in a foreign language, these are the moments that create unforgettable memories.
