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

Budget Travel Isn’t a Myth

Europe might be known for its historic cities, luxury trains, and pricey attractions—but traveling the continent on just $50 a day is completely possible. With the right strategies, you can explore castles, coastlines, and cultures without draining your savings. This guide breaks down everything you need to know to make your European adventure affordable and unforgettable.

Choose Budget-Friendly Destinations

Not all European countries cost the same. If you’re on a tight budget, prioritize destinations in Eastern and Central Europe like:

 

• Poland – affordable food, transport, and accommodations
• Hungary – thermal baths and vibrant nightlife without high costs
• Romania – stunning castles, nature, and budget travel options
• Portugal – Western Europe’s hidden budget gem

 

These countries offer incredible experiences for half the price of places like Switzerland or Norway.

Stay Smart: Affordable Accommodation

Skip luxury hotels and look into:

• Hostels – Dorm beds range from $10–$25/night
• Budget hotels or pensions – Simple, local places under $30/night
• Couchsurfing – Free stays and cultural exchanges
• Airbnb private rooms – Often cheaper than hotels in big cities
  Also, consider overnight buses or trains to save on both time and lodging costs.

Eat Like a Local

You can eat well on a budget in Europe:

• Street food and bakeries – Try Turkish kebabs, Spanish bocadillos, or Balkan pastries
• Grocery stores and markets – Grab fruit, bread, and cheese for picnics
• Daily lunch specials (menu del día) – Available in countries like Spain and Italy for $10 or less
• Cook your own meals – If you stay in hostels or Airbnbs with a kitchen

Travel Cheap Between Cities

Transportation doesn’t have to be expensive:

• Buses – Companies like FlixBus and Eurolines offer fares from $5–$20
• Budget airlines – Ryanair, EasyJet, and Wizz Air offer incredibly cheap flights (book early!)
• Trains with a pass – Use a Eurail Global Pass strategically
• Carpooling – BlaBlaCar is a safe, low-cost way to ride between cities

Explore for Free (Or Almost Free)

Europe is full of free attractions:

• Museums with free entry days
• Free walking tours (tip the guide)
• Historic sites, parks, and beaches
• Churches, cathedrals, and local markets
  Do your research—many cities offer tourist cards that include transport and free or discounted entry.

Stick to a Daily Budget

To stay under $50/day, use this sample budget:

• Accommodation: $20
• Food & drinks: $15
• Transportation: $5–10
• Activities/misc: $5–10

Track expenses using free apps like Trail Wallet or TravelSpend to stay on target.

Final Tips for Budget Travel Success

• Travel off-season (spring/fall) for cheaper flights and stays
• Pack light to avoid luggage fees
• Use free Wi-Fi instead of pricey roaming charges
• Buy a local SIM card if you’ll stay in one country for long
• Be flexible – spontaneous plans often save money

Conclusion

Traveling Europe on $50 a day isn’t just possible—it’s rewarding. You’ll meet locals, eat authentic food, and enjoy a richer experience than luxury travel often provides. With smart choices and a bit of planning, your dream trip through Europe can become a reality—without breaking the bank.