Europe on a Budget: Travel Secrets for Families

Yes, you can travel to Europe on a budget with kids!

As a family, we’ve visited 26 European countries and have learned something new each time. But with the arrival of each of our 3 children, the cost of travel only grew.

I’m no stranger to the struggle of financing a family trip abroad. When you prioritize travel, you find ways to save money both in the planning phase and throughout your adventures!

Want to know my tried-and-true tips? Keep reading for my best advice on how to travel to Europe on a budget with kids.

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How to Save Money on a Europe Trip

1. Plan Ahead and Be Flexible

When planning a trip to Europe on a budget with kids, you’ll want to keep your expectations in check and start planning early. This is the key if you want to keep a handle on your finances!

Be flexible when you begin searching. You will quickly realize that the cheapest option might be to fly into one city and travel to your final destination via another mode of transportation.

It’s true that what you save in cost, you’ll probably make up in time. But this isn’t all bad! It might mean having experiences and adventures you wouldn’t have otherwise.
If possible, have flexible travel dates to find the best flight deals available.

One of our favorite European travel tips with kids is to use local air carriers once you arrive. It’s easier and often more efficient.

2. Be Realistic About Your Budget

Let’s say you’re a family of 4 and plan on spending 2 weeks traveling in Europe. A frugal budget in Europe can vary depending on the countries you visit, the time of year, and other factors.

But a rough total estimate would be between $5,000 and $10,000.

​Break it down like this:

• Flights: Round-trip flights from the U.S. to Europe could be around $500–$800 per person if booked in advance. Total: $2,000–$3,200
• Accommodation: Opting for vacation rentals or budget hotels, you can expect to spend around $75–$150 per night. Total for 14 nights: $1,050–$2,100 
• Food: If you cook most meals and eat out occasionally, budget around $30–$50 per day. Total: $420–$700 
• Transportation: Use public transportation, walk when you can, and limit intercity travel. Plan 1-2 longer trips. Total: $300–$500
• Attractions: Focus on free or low-cost attractions, including entrance fees and public tours. Total: $300–$500
• I also suggest including a buffer for unexpected expenses. Total: $300–$500

The rest of this post goes into more detail on each point above. You’ll see how to work inside your budget and really stick to it. If you are willing to plan ahead and check all the boxes, you can easily plan a memorable trip where no one feels like they missed out!

3. Travel Off Peak

As soon as you think you might be traveling to Europe, start thinking about purchasing airline tickets.

To find the biggest discounts consider traveling in the shoulder season (usually April through early June, September, and October, depending on location). Late November through early February is also a good time for deals.

Not only will you enjoy cheaper prices, but you’ll benefit from fewer crowds and discounted rates on hotels, vacation rentals, attractions, and even souvenirs!

For many families, spring break and the summer months may seem like the best time to travel. But especially for coastal destinations, prices go up significantly across the board.

4. Use Airline Rewards Programs

We’ve purchased approximately 30 round-trip airline tickets to Europe using frequent flyer miles. The only things we have to pay for are airport fees and taxes!

We purchase everything with our rewards credit cards, but we make this work by paying off the credit cards EVERY SINGLE MONTH. If you can’t commit to this, airline rewards programs aren’t worth it.

Most airlines allow the purchasing of seats up to 330-360 days in advance, so be vigilant. If you don’t see the tickets you want, keep checking back, they occasionally open up more seats!

5. Look for Airline Sales and Fly Discount Carriers

You can find many international budget airlines that frequently run deals on travel from the East Coast US to Europe. If you’re able to get a ticket, it can be a great bargain.

Just know that sometimes bargains aren’t the best way to go. A couple of discount carriers that occasionally offer reduced fares to Europe are Icelandair and Norwegian.

Using a travel site like Google Flights can sometimes help when hunting for the cheapest fares.

Another good option is to use the travel agency app, Skyscanner. They’ll notify you of price changes if you want to monitor pricing for a specific destination (Google Flights does this too).

And don’t forget to download my favorite travel apps before your trip!

Once you land in Europe, there are numerous discount air carriers, such as Ryan Air, Wizz Air, and easyJet, that can transport you from country to country.

Many times, a flight can be cheaper than rail or car travel. Just know that these airlines can have different baggage requirements than we do in the US, so pack accordingly.

6. Consider Traveling to the Cheapest Countries in Europe

When many Americans book their trips to Europe they head to Western European destinations, like Italy, France, and the UK. I’m not saying you need to avoid these destinations, but if you want a bargain, go off the beaten path.

Western parts of Europe tend to be more expensive, but the most affordable options here are Portugal, Greece, Poland, and Spain. Eastern Europe offers many more options, with budget-friendly countries like Croatia, former Yugoslavia (Slovenia, Bosnia, Serbia, and Montenegro all come to mind), Czechia, Hungary, and Istanbul.

Trying one of these places instead of one of the more popular destinations will save you money on food, lodging, and transportation.

A few years ago, we took our kids to the Dordogne region of France. Not only was it less expensive than Paris and Provence, but the people were super friendly, and the area was a wealth of history and scenic beauty.

7. Choose Smaller Towns and Cities

When planning a family trip to Europe on a budget, think about visiting small towns instead of the more famous big cities. These smaller, less popular destinations are often hidden gems that offer a beautiful place to explore without the high costs that come with major tourist spots.

While big cities like Paris and Rome are iconic, they can be expensive and crowded, especially during peak travel times. Choosing smaller towns means you can explore at your own pace, without the stress of long lines and crowded attractions.

Small towns provide a more relaxed and authentic experience, where you can truly experience local culture.

Accommodations, meals, and activities are generally more affordable here, so you can have a great time without breaking the bank. Plus, these towns are often close enough to bigger cities for easy day trips! This means you can enjoy city breaks without staying in pricey central locations.

8. Look into Alternative Lodging

European hotel rooms are often unable to accommodate our family of 5 or more due to room size and fire code restrictions. As a result, I’ve spent numerous hours researching alternative lodging options.

We’ve enjoyed stays where we rented a self-catering home or cottage on a farm or rural property. In Italy, it’s known as an agriturismo, and in France, it’s a gîte. This also provides your family with an opportunity to live like a local, which is something you just can’t find at a hotel!

In addition to using services like VRBO to find vacation rentals, you can look into private rooms at hostels. If you’re ok giving up extra perks, this is a great way to get a good rate on a bigger space.

Many of these cheap accommodations are bound to save you money. Not only will you save on lodging but also on food expenses since it’s usually possible to prepare food in the apartment or room (always read the fine print).

9. Book a Longer Stay

Booking a longer vacation in Europe can be more affordable than you might think. When you stay for an extended period, you often qualify for significant discounts on accommodations.

Especially with vacation rental sites like VRBO and Airbnb, you’ll find that many hosts offer weekly and monthly discounts that can really add up. This can make a longer stay more budget-friendly than a series of shorter trips! Save that tour of Europe for when your bank account is a bit heavier.

By choosing to stay in just 1 or 2 locations, you can cut down on transportation costs as well. Instead of hopping from city to city and paying for trains, buses, or flights, you can settle into a single destination and explore it thoroughly.

And you’ll have more time to find the best local markets, hidden parks, and free activities that are often overlooked on shorter visits!

Staying in one place cuts down on transportation costs between cities, too. Do you have your heart set on staying in two different European locations? Choose destinations that are close together and avoid high-cost destinations, and a family road trip can still be budget-friendly.

10. Think About Transportation Options in Europe

More than anywhere else, transportation is where travel costs can get out of hand, and you have to do your research.

For example, for a family of 5, it’s sometimes cheaper to rent a car than pay for 5 train tickets. But some rail carriers like Rail Europe offer discounts for children or groups traveling together. They also offer discounts when visiting multiple countries.

There are also discount airline carriers. At times, we’ve found them to be cheaper than ferries, car rentals, and train travel!

Always check for cheap flights before you book other transport. Also take into account transportation time to and from the airport to make sure it’s the right choice.

The key is to book your ticket in advance through the local operator’s website. This will give you the best price available, and the sooner you make the reservation, the cheaper the ticket. This applies to both airlines and trains.

If you’re renting a car, check with your credit card before you leave. Many rental agencies in Europe require you to take out a hefty insurance waiver that often costs as much as the rental!

On a recent trip, my family learned that our American Express card provides us with insurance on these international rentals, saving us hundreds of dollars.

Also, try not to pick up and drop off in a different location because the drop-off fee can be ridiculous. An auto consolidator like Auto Europe that shops around for the best price might be the best way to go.

Buses, bikes, and metros are all budget-friendly options too. Some cities offer bus passes (buy in bulk to receive a discount), bikes for rent, and metros are typically cheaper than taxis.

And to save the most money, use your feet!

11. Understand Exchange Rates to Save Money

Paying attention to currency conversion rates is key to staying on budget when traveling to Europe. The exchange rate between the USD and the euro (or other local currencies) can really impact how much you end up spending!

Before your trip, keep an eye on the exchange rates, and consider exchanging some money when rates are favorable. Once you’re in Europe, use apps (we like Xe) that track live exchange rates, so you know exactly what you’re getting when you make purchases or exchange money.

During your trip, always pay in the local currency rather than letting your card automatically convert it to your home currency. This option usually comes with an extra fee (called dynamic currency conversion, or DCC) that you can easily avoid.

It’s also smart to use a credit card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees. Some cards add them for every purchase, which adds up over time.

When you need cash, use an ATM, but try to withdraw larger amounts less often to avoid fees. And make sure you’re using ATMs that are part of a major bank network to keep fees low.

12. Research the Best Overseas Phone Plan

In the past, we’ve used a local SIM card we purchased during the planning phase of our family vacation. This was a handy way to pay for a set number of minutes and swap out the SIM card in our phone. We’ve also used eSim Cards through Orange Travel and Airalo.

Another option is to use your regular cell phone provider but be sure to confirm rates and usage plans before heading overseas. We’ve also used a portable Wi-Fi device, paying a daily rate, and using only WhatsApp to communicate by phone.

A word of advice: You can’t depend solely on there being free Wi-Fi in public spaces. Free Wi-Fi is indeed common, especially in much of Western Europe.

You’ll often find them in public spaces like cafes, hotels, museums, and airports. But it’s not available enough for an international traveler to rely on for communication.

13. Invest in a City Pass

Most major European cities offer their own version of a “city pass.” When exploring Europe on a budget with kids, getting one is a smart move. It’s a fantastic all-in-one option offering discounted ticket prices on entertainment and transportation, as well as discounts on dining and shopping.

Every city is different in terms of what’s offered, so you’ll have to do your research and decide if it’s worth it for your family. Some city passes give you a few days to visit a few attractions that you pick from a long list, while others give you 30 days to use the pass as you like.

We really enjoyed the discounts provided by the Dublin and Lisbon passes. With just the Dubrovnik Pass, you’ll make back the money you spent on your pass with one trip to the city walls. With a Salzburg card, you can enjoy all museums and cultural attractions, as well as public transit for free.

Also keep in mind that in most cases, you’ll need to purchase a city pass for each member of your family. And depending on the city, this might make it more of a headache.

For example, in France, all minors and students (with student ID) enjoy free admission to all state museums. In this case, you’ll have to factor in what else you’ll be using it for when you decide if it’s really a good choice for you.

14. Look for Free Attractions

When exploring Europe on a budget with kids, seeking out free attractions is a fantastic way to save money while still enjoying the best of what each city has to offer.

Many European cities are packed with kid-friendly activities that don’t cost a thing, like museums and historical sites. Keep in mind that some museums offer free entry for kids year-round, while others only allow kids for free on certain days or during specific hours. Be sure to check schedules in advance.

And you can often find special events or festivals that offer free activities for kids. These are great deals because they provide entertainment and cultural experiences without the extra cost. Parks, playgrounds, and public gardens are also great spots to relax and let the kids run around without spending a dime.

Also, look out for free walking tours that are available in many cities (Sandemans and Walkative are both good companies to look for). These tours typically start in the city center and are a fun way to learn about the area’s history and landmarks. Just remember to bring cash so you can tip your guide!

15. Save Money on Food

If you want to vacation in Europe on a budget, one of the easiest ways to do this is to find ways to save money on food. Eating out for every meal of the day can add up quickly.

Here are some of my suggestions:

• Stay at accommodations with breakfast included: Choosing a hotel or rental that offers a free breakfast can save you money and start your day with a hearty meal. This way, you can skip buying breakfast and focus your budget on lunch and dinner.
• Make lunch your biggest meal: In many European countries, lunch is more affordable than dinner. Opt for a large lunch and have a smaller, lighter dinner. Many restaurants offer lunch specials at lower prices than their evening menus.
• Pack snacks: Bring snacks for the whole family to avoid buying expensive treats while out exploring.
• Shop at local markets: Buy fresh, local ingredients from markets for picnics or simple meals. Plus, it’s fun to eat like a local!
• Cook your own meals: If you have a kitchen, prepare some of your meals to save money! This also helps if you have picky eaters. You can cater to everyone’s tastes without overspending.
• Take advantage of street food: Street food is often delicious and budget-friendly. It’s a great way to try local flavors without splurging.
• Skip the drinks: Alcohol and sodas can be pricey. Stick to tap water or enjoy a coffee at a local café to keep costs down.

16. Ask the Locals

A great option when working with a budget is to talk to someone who is from wherever you’re visiting! This might be a friend, a fellow traveler, or a tour guide.

Locals usually know where to find the cheapest restaurant, transportation, tour, you name it. This can save you money on meals and other essentials, as well as give you an opportunity to find a destination’s true charm.

These suggestions are just the tip of the iceberg (so to speak) when it comes to planning a trip overseas. Hopefully, these tips will help plan budget travel to Europe!