Budget Travel in Europe: Top Tips for Indian Explorers

Overview

Dreaming of a European escape without the high price tag? Indian travelers can explore the best cities in Europe to visit on a budget with a bit of smart planning. At RoamTraveller, we help you discover destinations, transport options, and budget hacks that bring your dream trip to life—without burning a hole in your wallet.

1. Choose Budget-Friendly Destinations

Not all European countries are equally expensive. Western Europe—especially countries like Switzerland, Norway, and the UK—tends to be costlier. On the other hand, Eastern and Central European countries are far more affordable for Indian travelers.

Recommended Budget Destinations:

• Poland – Rich in history, culture, and surprisingly cheap accommodation and food.
  
• Hungary – Budapest offers stunning architecture, thermal baths, and budget-friendly activities.
  
• Portugal – Beautiful coastal cities, friendly locals, and inexpensive meals.
  
• Czech Republic – Particularly Prague, which has become a favorite for budget backpackers.
  
• Greece – Islands like Crete and Naxos are cheaper than Mykonos or Santorini.
  

2. Travel Off-Season

Traveling during the off-peak months—usually from October to March—can save you a fortune. Airfares, accommodations, and even local tours are significantly cheaper. Plus, you’ll face fewer crowds at popular landmarks.

Benefits of Off-Season Travel:

• Lower prices on flights and hotels.
  
• Better availability and flexible bookings.
  
• More interaction with locals due to less tourist traffic.
  
• Easier access to attractions without long queues.
  

3. Use Budget Airlines and Trains

Europe has an excellent network of low-cost airlines like Ryanair, EasyJet, and Wizz Air. Booking early can get you fares as low as ₹1,500. Trains, especially with an Eurail Pass or regional discount cards, can also be budget-friendly.

Travel Tips:

• Use Skyscanner or Google Flights to compare airfares.
  
• Travel with hand luggage only to avoid baggage fees.
  
• Take overnight trains or buses to save on accommodation.
  

4. Stay in Budget Accommodations

Accommodation is a big part of your travel expenses. Fortunately, Europe offers a wide variety of budget stays that are clean, safe, and centrally located.

Budget Stay Options:

• Hostels: Great for solo travelers and backpackers (check Hostelworld).
  
• Airbnb: Rent private rooms or apartments.
  
• Budget hotels: Try brands like Ibis Budget, B&B Hotels, or Motel One.
  
• Couchsurfing: Stay for free with locals and get authentic experiences.
  

5. Save on Food and Drinks

Dining out at tourist spots can be expensive. However, many European cities have plenty of cheap and tasty food options if you know where to look.

Money-Saving Food Tips:

• Visit local bakeries, street vendors, and food markets.
  
• Opt for meal deals at supermarkets like Tesco, Lidl, or Aldi.
  
• Cook your own meals if you stay in hostels or Airbnb apartments.
  
• Order lunch specials—often more affordable than dinner menus.
  

6. Use City Tourist Cards and Free Tours

Most major European cities offer tourist cards that give access to attractions, public transport, and discounts at restaurants.

Examples:

• Paris Pass
  
• Berlin WelcomeCard
  
• Lisbon Card
  

Also, consider joining free walking tours, which are tip-based and provide a great introduction to the city’s history and culture.

7. Public Transport Over Taxis

Europe has some of the best public transport in the world. Avoid taxis and ride-shares unless absolutely necessary. Instead, rely on metros, trams, buses, and even bicycle rentals.

Public Transport Tips:

• Buy day passes or multi-day transport cards.
  
• Use Google Maps or Citymapper to navigate public transport routes.
  
• In some cities like Amsterdam or Copenhagen, rent a bike for the full local experience.
  

8. Get Travel Insurance

Travel insurance might feel like an unnecessary expense, but it’s a must—especially in Europe where medical costs can be very high. Many Schengen visa applications require travel insurance.

Choose Plans That Cover:

• Medical emergencies
  
• Trip cancellations
  
• Lost luggage
  
• COVID-19 related expenses (if required)
  

Affordable Indian insurance providers like Tata AIG, Religare, and ICICI Lombard offer Europe travel coverage starting at just ₹500 for a week-long trip.

9. Get a Forex Card or International Debit Card

Avoid currency exchange kiosks at airports or tourist areas—they often charge high commissions. Instead, use forex cards or international debit/credit cards for better exchange rates.

Top Forex Card Options for Indians:

• HDFC Forex Card
  
• Axis Bank Multi-Currency Card
  
• Niyo Global Card
  
• BookMyForex
  

These offer competitive exchange rates and eliminate the need to carry large amounts of cash.

10. Plan in Advance and Be Flexible

Spontaneous travel can be thrilling, but when you’re on a tight budget, planning ahead is crucial. Book flights, trains, and accommodation in advance to grab early bird discounts.

Flexibility Tips:

• Be flexible with travel dates for cheaper flights.
  
• Consider alternative airports or cities to save money.
  
• Don’t overpack your itinerary—explore fewer places in more depth to cut travel costs.
  

Bonus Tips for Indian Travelers

1. Schengen Visa Planning:

• Apply at least 4–6 weeks in advance.
  
• Choose the country where you’ll spend the most time or enter first.
  
• Submit valid documents including return flight tickets, itinerary, hotel bookings, and bank statements.
  

2. Indian Food Abroad:

• Carry ready-to-eat packs or masalas if you’re traveling for a longer period.
  
• Look for Indian restaurants or grocery stores in major cities (London, Paris, Berlin).
  

3. Language Basics:

• Learn a few local phrases—it helps with locals and enriches your experience.
  
• Use apps like Google Translate or Duolingo.
  

4. Safety Tips:

• Keep digital and physical copies of documents.
  
• Avoid dark or isolated areas at night.
  
• Stay informed about local scams and rules (e.g., ticket validation in public transport).
  

Sample 10-Day Budget Itinerary

Here’s a sample 10-day itinerary covering affordable yet beautiful cities:

Day 1–2: Budapest, Hungary
Day 3–4: Vienna, Austria (via train)
Day 5–6: Prague, Czech Republic
Day 7–8: Krakow, Poland
Day 9–10: Warsaw, Poland

Estimated total cost:

• Flights (India to Europe round trip): ₹35,000–₹45,000
  
• Intra-Europe transport: ₹10,000
  
• Accommodation: ₹12,000–₹15,000
  
• Food & sightseeing: ₹10,000–₹12,000
  Total: ₹70,000–₹85,000
  

FAQs About Budget Travel in Europe

1. What are the best cities in Europe to visit on a budget for Indians?
Budapest, Prague, Krakow, Lisbon, and Athens are among the most affordable. These cities offer rich history, vibrant culture, and budget accommodation options.

2. How early should I apply for a Schengen visa?
Apply 4–6 weeks in advance. Ensure your travel insurance, bookings, and financial documents are ready when submitting your application.

3. Is it safe to travel solo in Europe as an Indian traveler?
Yes, Europe is generally safe. Stay aware of your surroundings, avoid isolated areas at night, and use registered transport services. RoamTraveller also offers safety tips for solo travelers.

4. Can I survive in Europe with vegetarian or Indian food?
Absolutely. Supermarkets offer plenty of vegetarian choices. Many cities have Indian restaurants or grocery stores. You can also carry ready-to-eat meals from India.

5. Are there any apps to help manage my budget during the trip?
Yes, use XE for currency, Rome2Rio for transport planning, Hostelworld for cheap stays, and Trail Wallet to track expenses on the go.

Final Thoughts

With the right strategies, exploring Europe on a budget is more than possible—it’s rewarding. Choose affordable cities, travel smart, eat like a local, and plan ahead. Whether it’s your first time in Europe or your fifth, RoamTraveller can help you discover more for less. Visit RoamTraveller to get customized travel plans, visa help, and exclusive deals.