Planning an affordable Europe trip? Here's How to Do It in Your 30s (Without Hostels!)
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Planning a trip to Europe but not keen on roughing in hostels or living the backpacker life? If you're in your 30s and looking for ways to travel smart without sacrificing comfort, here’s how you can do it! After visiting over 15 countries across Western, Eastern, Scandinavian, and Baltic Europe, I can confidently say that the key to the perfect trip lies in balancing where you save and where you splurge. Here are some tried-and-tested tips to help you save money on a Europe trip without being too frugal, while enjoying the finer things along the way.
Ditch the taxis, hop on a bus to the city centre
The first and most important maxim for a Europe trip – steer clear of taxis like logic in a Trump speech! Europe boasts an incredible public transport network, so shelling out for a taxi is an unnecessary splurge. Instead, opt for airport coaches that conveniently drop you in the city centre and even serve multiple other zones. These air-conditioned buses come with comfortable seats, onboard toilets, and sometimes even free Wi-Fi—all at a fraction of the cost of a taxi. Flixbus is a great option, offering affordable routes from airports and even between cities across Europe
Sunny Airbnbs over stuffy hotel rooms
European 3-star hotels have a way of stirring up disappointment —large lobbies hide small, cramped rooms with barely enough space to stand, let alone stow your suitcase. Instead, opt for a bright, cozy Airbnb, often at the same or even lower price than a hotel. Not only will you have more space, but you’ll also get a taste of local life, staying in homes that reflect the culture and charm of the city. Hosts often offer great insider tips too! In my experience, Airbnbs in Europe live up to their photos and frequently come with added perks like a sunny balcony, a garden, or even a terrace with city views if you’re lucky.
A supermarket meal a day keeps expensive cappuccinos at bay
I’ve spent more euros than I care to admit on overpriced cappuccinos and croissants at cute outdoor cafes, followed by meals at restaurants that devour your trip budget faster than a German car on the autobahn. That is, until I discovered the magic of European supermarkets! Chains like Migros, Coop, Sainsbury, and Carrefour are conveniently located near metro stations, bus stops, and almost every other corner, and they’re stocked with everything from fresh sandwiches and salads to wine and chocolates. It’s the perfect way to grab a meal without expending a big chunk of your daily budget. On longer trips, I’ve even stocked up on milk, cereal, fruits, and bread at my Airbnb to throw together a simple breakfast, saving money on at least one meal a day.
Of course, I’m not saying you should skip out on Europe’s amazing cafes or restaurants entirely! Treat yourself to one good meal or café stop a day to soak in the local flavors and ambiance. But for everything else, your friendly neighborhood supermarket has got you covered. A sandwich, coffee and a bench in the middle of the Old Town square – the breakfast of champions (in saving money).
Get a feel of the city with a free walking tour
There’s no such thing as too much walking in Europe. While you’re at it, join an inspired tour guide and an assorted medley of tourists in sturdy walking shoes on a trip down historical squares, iconic buildings, and renowned landmarks. These tours are a fantastic way to soak up fascinating trivia, anecdotes, legends, and customs that shape the city's past and present.
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If you’re unsure where to kick off your itinerary, a walking tour is the perfect introduction to everything the city has to offer, allowing you to dive deeper into the sights that capture your interest later on.
Popular options like Sandeman and GuruWalk offer daily tours throughout the morning, afternoon, and evening. While these tours are free to join, it’s customary to leave a discretionary tip for your guide at the end.
Mark your calendar for free activities in Europe
Planning ahead can help you enjoy Europe's cultural treasures without breaking the bank. For example, in Paris, most museums offer free entry on the first Sunday of every month (from October to March). In Spain, many national museums have free admission during select hours, such as the Prado Museum in Madrid. If you're in Vienna, don't miss the opportunity to attend an opera with standing tickets for as little as 5 Euros!
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Always check the official websites of the attractions you're interested in for special offers, free entry times, and exclusive deals. Sightseeing can drain your wallet like a faulty spigot, but with a bit of research, you can take full advantage of discounts and enjoy some free activities in Europe. Keep your eyes open and your calendar ready to make the most of your trip without overspending!
Get a City Card or Pass based on trip duration
A city card can be a game-changer for saving money and maximizing convenience. With perks like unlimited public transport, discounted attraction entry, and even shopping offers, they offer great value for your money. Before your trip, research the different types of passes available, tailored to the length of your stay and the sights you plan to visit.
 Don’t wait until you’re at the counter with a line of tourists behind you — that’s when decision fatigue kicks in! If you're spending 48 hours or more in the same city, opting for a card that includes attraction entry is often worth it. For shorter stays, single tickets might be the better option. Plan ahead, and you’ll avoid the stress while getting the most out of your visit.
Skimp on buying water so you can save more for wine
Staying hydrated is essential, but spending money on bottled water isn't! In most parts of Europe, tap water is safe to drink, and many cities have public water fountains for easy refills. Some restaurants will even refill your bottle for free if you're dining there. To save those precious Euros, always carry a reusable water bottle with you to avoid buying water on the go.
A quick note about still vs. sparkling water: Europeans often love their water fizzy! Supermarkets stock still and sparkling water in similar bottles, so if you're unsure, ask someone or use a translation app to avoid a bubbly surprise.
Evaluate different timing options when buying inter-city train tickets
When traveling across Europe, most people will visit at least two or three cities. Instead of settling for the first train tickets you find, take the time to search for options during off-peak hours, like early mornings or late nights, when prices are often significantly lower.
 However, be cautious and check the duration and number of stops; the cheapest ticket isn’t worth it if you end up dragging your luggage through multiple train platforms every few hours!
A train journey through Europe's alluring landscapes is high up there on the pantheon of travel bucket lists, but after you're done with a few, I recommend trying FlixBus for inter-city travel, especially for shorter journeys. These buses provide comfortable amenities, fantastic views through large windows, and are typically much cheaper than train tickets. With a bit of planning, you can travel efficiently and save money along the way!
Use these tips to make your next Europe trip more affordable so you can put away some more for future trips. After all, you can't just cram the beauty of Europe in one trip, it beckons you every other summer and a few occasional winters.
Start planning your trip with this guide on applying for your Schengen visa with the right documents to avoid rejection.
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