A European train station with a train ready to depart, a FlixBus on the road, and a traveler biking along cobblestone streets in a picturesque city.
Exploring Europe doesn’t have to cost a fortune, especially when it comes to transportation. With a wide range of budget-friendly options available, you can travel across cities, countries, and even regions without breaking the bank. Here’s your complete guide to cheap ways to get around Europe.


1. Budget Airlines

Fly Across Europe for Less

  • Budget airlines like Ryanair, EasyJet, and Wizz Air offer incredibly low fares, especially when booked in advance.
  • Look for deals on aggregator sites like Skyscanner or Google Flights to find the cheapest options.

Pro Tip: Avoid additional fees by sticking to carry-on luggage and checking weight limits carefully.


2. Affordable Train Travel

Eurail Pass for Multi-Country Trips

  • The Eurail Pass offers unlimited train travel across 33 countries, making it an excellent choice for long-distance journeys.
  • Book regional trains instead of high-speed services to save even more.

Budget Train Companies

  • Consider budget operators like Trenitalia (Italy), Renfe (Spain), and Deutsche Bahn’s regional tickets (Germany) for affordable travel.

3. Travel by Bus

FlixBus and Other Budget Bus Operators

  • FlixBus is a popular choice for budget travelers, offering routes across Europe at prices as low as €5.
  • Other operators like Eurolines and BlaBlaBus also provide extensive coverage at wallet-friendly rates.

Overnight Buses

  • Save on accommodation by taking overnight buses for longer routes—just pack a neck pillow for extra comfort!

4. Explore Cities on Foot or by Bike

Walk to Save Money and Enjoy the Scenery

  • Many European cities are incredibly walkable, allowing you to save money while soaking in the sights.
  • Free walking tours are also a great way to explore while learning about local history.

Bike Rentals and Sharing Services

  • Cities like Amsterdam, Copenhagen, and Berlin offer affordable bike rental or sharing services, making cycling a cheap and eco-friendly option.

5. Ride-Sharing and Car Rentals

Use Ride-Sharing Apps

  • BlaBlaCar connects travelers with drivers heading to the same destination, offering a budget-friendly alternative to trains or buses.

Affordable Car Rentals

  • Renting a car is ideal for exploring rural areas or regions with limited public transport. Use services like Rentalcars.com to compare prices and book deals.

6. Take Advantage of Local Transport Systems

Cheap and Convenient Public Transport

  • European cities often have reliable and affordable public transport systems, including metro lines, trams, and buses.
  • Purchase day passes or multi-day cards for unlimited travel at a lower cost.

City Transport Cards

  • Look for city-specific transport cards (e.g., Paris Visite, Berlin WelcomeCard) that offer discounted travel and free entry to attractions.

7. Plan Smart for Extra Savings

Book in Advance

  • Many transportation services offer significant discounts for early bookings, especially trains and budget airlines.

Travel Off-Peak

  • Avoid peak times and holidays for cheaper tickets and less crowded journeys.

Use Travel Apps

  • Apps like Omio and Rome2Rio compare multiple transportation options, helping you find the most affordable and efficient route.

Traveling around Europe doesn’t have to drain your wallet. By choosing budget airlines, affordable trains, buses, and local transport systems, you can explore the continent without overspending. Whether you’re flying between major cities or biking through quaint villages, these transportation tips will help you get around Europe efficiently and affordably.

Start planning your next European adventure today and enjoy the journey as much as the destination!