Think Europe is out of reach for budget travelers? Think again. While the continent is often associated with pricey hotels, Michelin-starred restaurants, and high-speed trains, you can absolutely travel Europe on just $50 a day—with a little creativity, flexibility, and a strong grip on your daily budget.
This guide breaks down exactly how to stretch your money while still enjoying the rich culture, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities that make Europe so irresistible.
Why Travel Europe on a Budget?
Europe is a dream for many, but it can feel unattainable with headlines about €7 coffees in Paris or $200 hotel rooms in Amsterdam. The truth? You don’t need to spend a fortune to explore Europe deeply. Some of the best moments—wandering cobbled alleys in Lisbon, hiking alpine trails in Slovenia, or watching the sunset over the Danube—don’t cost a thing.
Learning how to travel Europe on $50 a day gives you access to:
- Longer trips (think months, not weeks)
- Local experiences over tourist traps
- A deeper connection with the places you visit
Budget Breakdown: What Does $50 a Day Cover?
Let’s get real: $50 a day means watching your spending closely, but not sacrificing quality. Here’s a rough daily breakdown:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation (hostel/shared room) | $15–20 |
| Food (local eats + supermarket snacks) | $10–15 |
| Transportation (metro, bus, or local trains) | $5–10 |
| Activities & Sightseeing | $5–10 |
| Total | $45–55 |
The trick is to balance splurges with savings. Picnic in Paris one day, treat yourself to a museum or street food crawl the next.
Where to Go: Budget-Friendly Countries in Europe
While $50/day is tough in places like Switzerland or Iceland, many parts of Europe are perfect for shoestring travel. Here are some budget-friendly countries to consider:
Eastern and Central Europe
- Poland – Delicious pierogis, vibrant cities, and low costs
- Romania – Gothic castles, mountain hikes, and cheap trains
- Hungary – Budapest’s thermal baths and ruin bars offer great value
- Bulgaria – Coastal towns and countryside retreats on a shoestring
The Balkans
- Albania – Stunning beaches and mountains without the crowds
- Bosnia & Herzegovina – Incredible history and nature for less
- North Macedonia – A hidden gem with hearty meals and kind locals
Southern Europe
- Portugal – Budget-friendly surf towns and charming villages
- Spain (Andalusia, Galicia) – Stick to the south or north for fewer tourists and lower prices
- Greece (mainland and lesser-known islands) – Avoid Santorini and enjoy real value
Budget Travel Tips: How to Actually Make $50 Work
1. Sleep Cheap: Accommodation Hacks
- Hostels: Dorms start at $10–$25 in most of Eastern and Southern Europe.
- Couchsurfing: Stay with locals for free and get local insight.
- Work Exchange (e.g. Workaway, Worldpackers): Trade a few hours of help for a free bed and meals.
- Camping: Great in summer—try wild camping in the Balkans or campsites in Slovenia.
Tip: Book directly with hostels or use apps like Hostelworld. Prices on third-party sites can be higher.
2. Eat Smart: Skip Restaurants, Go Local
- Street food and bakeries are your best friends. Grab burek in Bosnia or pastel de nata in Portugal.
- Supermarkets: Buy bread, cheese, fruit, and cold cuts for a DIY picnic.
- Daily specials: Many local restaurants offer affordable lunch deals.
Example: In Budapest, you can get a hearty goulash or schnitzel with sides for under $6.
3. Move Cheaply: Travel Slow, Travel Smart
- Local buses and metros are often just $1–$2
- Regional trains in places like Slovakia or Poland are cheap and scenic
- FlixBus or BlaBlaCar: Great for longer distances on a budget
- Eurail Pass? Only if you’re traveling long distances frequently—it may not pay off for budget travelers
Tip: Book buses and trains in advance. Overnight rides save you a night’s accommodation.
4. Free & Cheap Attractions: Explore Without Spending Much
- Free walking tours in most major cities (tip-based)
- Museum discount days (first Sunday of the month is free in many countries)
- Parks, beaches, and churches are always open and often free
Inspiration: In Prague, you can enjoy a beautiful view from Letná Park, cross the Charles Bridge, and explore Old Town—all for free.
5. Travel Slow and Stay Longer
Slow travel saves money. The longer you stay in one place:
- The more you learn where to eat, shop, and move like a local
- You reduce transport costs
- You might score weekly discounts on accommodations
Sample Itinerary: One Week in the Balkans on $350
Here’s how a realistic week might look if you’re traveling through Albania and Montenegro:
- Day 1–2: Tirana – Free walking tour, street food, hostel dorm ($18/night)
- Day 3–4: Shkoder – Bike rental around the lake, camping by Theth trailhead
- Day 5–7: Kotor – Hike to the fortress, beach time, local bakery breakfasts
You’ll spend roughly:
- $120 on accommodation
- $80 on food
- $50 on buses
- $50 on activities
- Total: ~$300
And you’ll have plenty of memories—and photos—for a fraction of what most tourists spend.
Final Thoughts: Travel Europe the Smart Way
You don’t need a platinum credit card or luxury package tours to enjoy Europe. With $50 a day, you can discover hidden towns, meet locals, and create meaningful experiences without breaking the bank.
In fact, budget travel often brings richer, more memorable moments. It forces you to interact, adapt, and appreciate the little things—a sunrise over the Alps, a shared laugh in a hostel kitchen, or the joy of finding the best bakery in town.
So pack light, stay curious, and remember: adventure doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag.
FAQs
Can I really travel Western Europe on $50 a day?
It’s challenging, but not impossible. You’ll need to stay in hostels, eat from supermarkets, and avoid big cities like London or Zurich—or limit your time there.
How much should I budget for a month of travel in Europe?
If you stick to affordable regions like the Balkans or Eastern Europe, $1,200–$1,500/month is a reasonable budget for basic comfort and fun.
Is it better to travel alone or with a friend for budget travel?
Traveling with a friend can cut costs on private rooms or car rentals, but solo travel offers more flexibility. Both have pros—choose what suits your style.