6 Cheap (and Best) Ways to Travel Europe in 2023

Last Update: 13/5/2023 | May 13, 2023

Traveling around Europe can be expensive. Airfare, high-speed and overnight trains, ferries — they all eat up your limited (and precious) travel budget.

Fortunately, there are many ways to travel around Europe on a budget. Sharing economy, new bus options, discounted train fares and lots of budget airlines all help you navigate Europe without breaking the bank.

I've been traveling Europe since 2006 and have seen things change over that time. I've watched travel hacks come and go and prices change and change again. Although COVID has affected many things, I can honestly say that getting around Europe has never been easier because there are so many new, inexpensive ways to travel the continent.

Here are the best ways to travel around Europe on a budget:

1. Traveling by Bus

Taking an intercity bus is one of the cheapest ways to travel around the continent. The main international bus company is Eurolines and is based in Germany FlixBuswhich grew rapidly when it acquired Megabus and now has routes across the continent.

Flixbus is usually the cheapest bus option, starting at 5 EUR. Their buses include Wi-Fi, power outlets, free baggage (one carry-on bag and one stored under the bus), and comfortable seats. (Megabus still operates in the UK.)

FlixBus has quickly become my favorite non-train way to travel across Europe cheaply. It's not luxurious by any means, but it's the cheapest way to get around. They are mostly European. Here's their route map to help you plan your trip!

However, there are many other regionally specific bus companies that will take you elsewhere. For example, Alsa is the main provider in Spain and its neighboring countries.

you can use BusRadar or Get By Bus to find the cheapest and fastest option on your desired route.

2. Travel on a Budget Airline

By far, one of the cheapest ways to travel long distances in Europe is on budget airlines. The airline is very prolific on the continent and competition has resulted in very cheap fares. It's not uncommon to find flights for as little as 10 EUR! I use Skyscanner to find the best deals. They do all the hard work!

Remember that budget airlines make most of their money through fees. They are very strict about baggage limits or and many will let you know if you forget to print your boarding pass. Don't expect free drinks or food either. But if you follow the rules and know what to expect, you can save a lot of money!

For more information, here is a comprehensive guide to finding cheap flights.

3. Travel with the Eurail Pass

I love traveling by train: sitting in a big chair, relaxing with a book, and watching the amazing sights go by. It's more comfortable than buses and far less stressful (and more sustainable) than air travel. And Europe's rail system is one of the best and widest in the world.

If you're going to be traveling by train, it's hard to beat them in terms of price and convenience for short trips from city to city. For longer trips (overnight trips, between countries, or trips that require high-speed links, such as Paris to Bordeaux or Berlin to Munich), trains can be prohibitively expensive.

If you're planning to travel around Europe and don't want to fly, getting a train ticket is your best money-saving travel option. Your cost per trip will be much lower than if you bought these tickets separately.

Not sure if Eurail pass is for you? Here are the full details of Eurail tickets and when to use them to save money.

4. Travel with BlaBlaCar

The rise of the sharing economy has allowed people to hitchhike with locals going their way, and BlaBlaCar is the reigning king of the service. It is very popular and widespread in Europe and I have used this service many times. This lets you share your ride with people who have extra space in their car. You find a ride, they agree to take you, and off you go. Prices are set by the driver and are meant to offset fuel costs and overall wear and tear on the vehicle.

It is the BEST paid way to travel around Europe as you can meet local people, have friendly conversations, save money and get to your destination faster. It is available in almost 20 countries in Europe.

While BlaBlaCar may not always be cheaper than the bus (FlixBus can be really cheap!) it's usually much faster and more fun!

5. Traveling with a Rental Car/Campervan

If you're traveling to a small country or region of Europe and looking for flexibility, renting a car or campervan might be worth the money — especially if you can split the cost with someone. Car rentals can be found for as little as 25 EUR per day, though keep in mind that fuel is expensive. For the best deals on car rental in Europe, use Find Car.

Campervans are very popular in countries like Iceland, Scotland and Norway because these destinations offer lots of hiking and camping opportunities. You can find a campervan for as little as 60 EUR per day — very affordable when shared with a travel partner and when you consider that this also includes accommodation! Use the “park4night” app to find free (and cheap) overnight parking across Europe.

Notes: Many countries in Europe require foreign drivers to have an International Driving Permit. You can get it in your home country before you arrive for around 20 EUR. (This is basically just a copy of your license in another language). Also keep in mind that renting an automatic vs standard transmission will usually cost about twice as much.

6. Travel with Hitchhiking

Hitchhiking is fairly common – and a lot safer than you might think. I have met many travelers who have done it without incident. I myself traveled this way in Bulgaria and Iceland without any problems.

Keep in mind that it's important to use your head when hitchhiking. Always trust your instincts and use common sense. Save your valuables in case you forget your bag in the car and never hesitate to message a friend or family member with a license plate before you get in. Write your goals on the sign and look presentable. That will help you find rides faster.

Use a website Hitchwiki for tips to help ensure you have a fun and safe experience.

The BEST and CHEAPEST Way to Travel Europe? Mix and Match Your Transportation

As you can see, there are many ways to travel around Europe on a budget. But the best way is to mix and match your transportation depending on where you are going and for how long. For short trips, I love trains and BlaBlaCar. For mid-distance (i.e. half a day) trips, I'll take the bus, BlaBlaBla car, or train. For long distances, I fly or take high-speed trains or night buses.

Too many travelers think it's all or nothing. Like one way is always better than another. That is not true. There is no one way to get around Europe. There are many — and you need to know when to use which method.

If you have more time, take the slower, less expensive route.

If you have more money and a shorter trip, fly and take the train.

If you don't have a preference for how to get around — and you just want the cheapest option (which I usually do) — use a website like Roma2Rio or Omg. All you have to do is enter your destination and these sites will mix and match different ways to get around the continent for the least amount of money. They would string together buses, trains, and airplanes to travel the fastest at the lowest cost.

Remember: no one method works 100% of the time. Mix and match. Do that and you will save a lot of time and money!

Get Your In-Depth Budget Guide to Europe!

My detailed 200+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts through the fine hairs found in other guides and gets straight to the practical information you need for traveling while in Europe. It has suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off the beaten track things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, safety tips, and more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today.