By Amy Jones
If you have yet to hear about the ‘Euro Summer’ trend that has been circulating across the internet, then it is time to get to know it! Predominately a craze that has surfaced from Americans discovering that Europe has some beautiful places, people are flocking in the thousands to visit the best of what Europe has to offer. With this, it is still important to consider that we are in a cost-of-living crisis, and for us young people looking to explore hidden gems in Europe, planning the trip on a budget is the only way to move forward.
Luckily, there are so many amazing counties and cities to visit in Europe that offer the experience of a lifetime, all while sticking to a budget. If you are keen to find out which countries will bag you the most for your money, firstly take a look at the most cost-effective counties that are a must-see:
Best Budget European Countries
Puglia, Italy
Despite common knowledge about Italy poaching a price within the journey, the town of Puglia Italy is known for its cost-effective stays, picturesque Mediterranean scenery, and also for being the heel of the infamous boot shape that Italy has. This coastal town is packed with natural beauty and sights to see. It is also recognised for its olive oil production, with 40% of Italy’s olive oil coming from this exact location! Expert to find the cheapest, yet most delicious food in the whole of Italy here. You will truly feel like a native Italian in this city, and it is a great way to avoid the excessive tourists that you may find in the most popular cities such as Rome. The average cost of a full meal in Puglia can cost anywhere from 10 euros. For traditional and tasteful Italian food, it is a steal!
Prague, Czech Republic
Prague is another city noted as being considerably cheaper within Europe when compared to the likes of Paris and Berlin. With pints of beet for as little as 2 euro, it is no surprise that masses of people flock to the city to experience the best of what it has to offer. Whilst the inner city itself can have expensive accommodation, there is much more affordable accommodation on the outskirts of the city, with just a short walk or drive to the main attraction. Speed around the city with the rentable adult electric scooters, or if you are looking for a boozier trip consider taking a ride of the ‘beer bikes’ they have to offer. Drinking whilst sightseeing, what more could you want? The cost of a mid-range meal in Prague can cost as little as 6 euro after conversions. You will certainly have money left for drinking and events after your belly is full!
Budapest, Hungary
After you have completed your stay in Prague, why not take a quick trip to the heart of Europe, Hungary? The main city Budapest is a cultural hub, filled with the best of what East Europe has to offer. With thermal baths that have been used for centuries, fantastic cushions that are loved from around the world, and stunning architecture that is completely free to explore, Budapest is an essential city to visit during your Euro summer. Both the daytime scene and nighttime scene will leave you wanting to go back for more. The average meal in Hungary with drinks, a main meal, and perhaps a dessert, if you are feeling cheeky, can come to 11 euros!
Thessaloniki, Greece
The cultural port city of Thessaloniki in Greece is another budget-friendly destination that must be visited if you are looking for crystal blue waters, delicious cuisine, and also Roman ruins that give the city the character and spark you would want to see! It has a vibrant nightlife, picturesque promenades and cultural heritage which can take up the majority of your journey when visiting. The average meal here averages about 14 euros at the nicer restaurants, but one of their delicious gyros will also suffice for a fraction of the price!
Marmaris, Turkey
Making our way further east, Marmaris in Turkey is recognised as being one of the best places to experience a luxury holiday on the budget of a student! If you are looking to save money whilst experiencing the pleasures of a holiday resort, this is the place to be. This location is action-packed with water parks, bustling nightlife, and amazing traditional Turkish food to enjoy. The average cost of a meal for one person as of recent data is 140.00TL, which converted to euros comes to £4.69! The prices in Turkey are unbelievable, and you are certain to get the most out of your money when visiting.
Final tips
- Cheap Travel – If you are going to multiple counties, the bulk of your cost will come from transportation around Europe. You have the option of interrailing if you are looking for the cheapest way to commute around Europe. You can also find cheap plane tickets through apps such as sky scanner. Taking a coach around Europe is also an option, however, this can take up to 24 hours to journey.
- Bring Cash – Convert money before the trip if possible for the best exchange rates. Taking out the money in the country you travel to may not give you the best benefits of exchange rates.
- Accommodation – Stay in hostels when possible, or if they are not your thing, look for hotels just outside of the main cities that have good transport options.
Bottom Line
If you are looking to live your best life during your euro summer but do not have a big budget, do not worry! Europe is home to some of the best cities and towns that host an abundance of sightseeing and cultural experiences all while being cost-effective. Consider doing an interrailing trip around Europe to see as much as possible, and save up where you can in the lead-up to the journey!