Traveling across Europe can be an exhilarating experience, but planning your budget is essential to making the most of your adventure. From the historic streets of Paris to the budget-friendly corners of Eastern Europe, the cost of travel varies widely from country to country. In this guide, we break down daily travel costs in Europe — helping you choose destinations that fit your travel style and budget.
Why Travel Costs Vary Across Europe
The price of travel in Europe depends on several factors, including local living standards, currency strength, tourism demand, and infrastructure costs. Western and Northern European destinations tend to be pricier due to higher accommodation, food, and transportation costs, while many Eastern and Balkan countries offer excellent value for money. Daily expenses can also be influenced by travel style — backpacker, budget, mid-range, or luxury — and by how you choose to eat, stay, and explore.
Most Expensive Countries to Visit in Europe
Here’s a snapshot of some of the highest daily travel costs in Europe, based on data from travel experts who analyse accommodation, meals, transportation, and local expenses:
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- France — €182.19/day: One of Europe’s priciest destinations overall, particularly in Paris where sightseeing, meals, and hotels add up quickly. Budget travellers often save by exploring smaller towns beyond the capital.
- Switzerland — €181.55/day: With its high living standards, Switzerland is expensive across the board — from alpine lodges to train tickets. Staying outside major cities and sharing travel costs can reduce daily spend.
- Denmark — €161.46/day: Copenhagen and other Danish cities are known for excellent quality of life — and correspondingly high prices for dining and lodging.
- Iceland — €133.63/day: The breathtaking landscapes of Iceland come at a premium, with accommodation, food, and car rentals contributing to elevated daily costs.
- United Kingdom — €127.40/day: London and other major cities can be costly, especially for accommodation. Travellers often find better value by staying outside central areas or visiting smaller towns.
Other Northern European countries like Finland (€120.73/day) and Sweden (€112.67/day) also tend to be relatively high-cost destinations, reflecting the general price levels in the Nordic region.
Mid-Range Cost Countries
Several popular European travel destinations sit in the mid-range cost bracket — often offering a balance between affordability and rich cultural experiences:
- Spain — €111.96/day: With bustling cities like Barcelona and Madrid alongside affordable coastal towns, Spain delivers variety at reasonable prices.
- Greece — €110.33/day: Island hopping and historical sites are highlights here; local ferries and off-peak travel can help cut costs.
- Ireland — €109.47/day: Dublin and Irish countryside alike offer great scenery and friendly hospitality, with costs easing once you leave major demand zones.
- Germany — €106.78/day: Well-connected by train and known for efficient public transport, Germany balances urban exploration with manageable budget options.
Mid-range countries also include parts of Southern and Western Europe, where travellers can mix city visits with countryside escapes to control spending. Variations in food, transport, and accommodation prices make this category flexible for many travel styles.
Most Affordable European Countries for Budget Travel
Heading east and southeast across the continent reveals some of the most affordable travel destinations in Europe — ideal for budget and backpacker explorers:
- Serbia — €18.75/day: One of the most affordable countries to explore, with vibrant city culture and low transport and food costs.
- Ukraine — €23.00/day: Costs are low across accommodation, food, and attractions, though language barriers and route planning may require flexibility.
- Russia — €38.92/day: Moscow and St. Petersburg are pricier, but off-the-beaten-path areas offer budget value.
- Albania — €41.31/day: A hidden gem with inexpensive stays and welcoming local culture.
- Bulgaria — €51.04/day: Beautiful landscapes and low prices make Bulgaria a top Eastern European budget pick.
- Bosnia & Herzegovina — €54.85/day: Welcoming communities and affordable culture add to its appeal.
- Hungary — €57.68/day: Budapest combines historic charm with a low cost of living.
- Poland — €58.58/day: Warsaw and Krakow offer culture, food, and history at budget prices.
Practical Cost Categories for Travellers
When planning your European trip, consider typical daily travel expenses:
- Accommodation: Hostels and budget stays can run anywhere from €10–€40 per night, while private hostel rooms and mid-range hotels range from €40–€100 or more depending on season and region.
- Food & Drink: Budget travelers might spend €8–€15 per day on meals by mixing supermarket purchases, street food, and casual eats.
- Transport: Public transport within cities typically costs €1.50–€8/day, while intercity buses or budget trains vary widely.
- Activities & Attractions: Museums and cultural sites often charge €10–€25, though many big cities offer free walking tours and city passes to help you save.
Tips to Save on Travel Costs in Europe
• Travel Off-Peak: Shoulder seasons like spring and autumn often offer lower prices on flights and hotels.
• Use Public Transport: Public transit, walking, and budget buses can drastically reduce your daily spend compared to taxis or car hires.
• Stay in Hostels or Airbnb: Shared rooms or budget rentals keep accommodation costs down, especially in expensive countries.
Europe offers a remarkable range of experiences for every budget — from the high-end streets of Paris and Copenhagen to the wallet-friendly cities of Serbia and Poland. By understanding daily travel costs and planning ahead, you can design an itinerary that matches your travel style and financial goals. Wherever you choose to go, Europe’s diversity ensures unforgettable journeys that can fit both luxury and budget travel plans.