Learn how to plan the ultimate European adventure without breaking the bank

If you’re anything like us, you’ve been dreaming of a European getaway for years, but the thought of expensive flights, accommodations, and food has held you back. Fear not, fellow travelers! With some careful planning, you can have an amazing 5-day trip to Europe on a budget. In this article, we’ll show you how to plan the perfect itinerary, from finding affordable flights to making the most of your time in each city.

Step 1: Choose Your Destination — how to plan

Europe has so many incredible cities to explore, but some are more budget-friendly than others. Consider visiting cities like Budapest, Prague, or Porto, which offer a great balance of culture, history, and affordability. You can find affordable accommodations, food, and activities in these cities, making them perfect for a budget-friendly getaway. Check out our guide on how to travel Europe on a budget for more tips and tricks.

Step 2: Book Your Flights

Booking your flights is one of the most important parts of planning your trip. To find the best deals, be flexible with your travel dates and consider flying into a nearby airport instead of a major hub. You can use budget airline websites or flight comparison tools to find the cheapest options. For example, you can fly from New York to London for under $200 if you’re willing to fly with a budget airline like Norwegian Air.

Step 3: Plan Your Itinerary

Once you’ve booked your flights, it’s time to start planning your itinerary. Consider what you want to see and do in each city, and make a list of your top priorities. You can use a travel guide or website like Approved by Her to get inspiration and ideas for your trip. Don’t forget to leave some free time in your schedule for spontaneity and relaxation – you don’t want to overplan your trip and end up feeling stressed or overwhelmed.

Step 4: Find Affordable Accommodations

Accommodations can be one of the biggest expenses on a trip, but there are ways to find affordable options. Consider staying in a hostel or budget hotel, or look into Airbnb apartments or rooms. You can also use websites like Booking.com or Hostelworld to compare prices and find the best deals. For example, you can find a hostel dorm room in Barcelona for under $20 per night, or a private Airbnb apartment in Paris for under $50 per night.

Additional How to plan Tips

Now that we have covered the basics, here are some extra insights that will help you master how to plan. These are the details that make the biggest difference.

Focus on quality over quantity. Start with a few key pieces and build from there. This saves money and keeps your approach intentional.

Dial in the details. Small adjustments can transform results with how to plan. Iterate based on what you learn.

Be patient with yourself. Nobody becomes an expert overnight. Experiment, make mistakes, refine. That is how your style becomes yours.

Step 5: Make the Most of Your Time

Finally, it’s time to make the most of your time in each city. Consider purchasing a city pass or public transportation card to get around easily and affordably. You can also use websites like The Everygirl to find free or low-cost activities and attractions in each city. Don’t forget to try the local cuisine and drinks, and take time to soak up the atmosphere and culture of each place. With a little planning and creativity, you can have an amazing 5-day getaway to Europe on a budget.

For extra inspo, see this feature on Vogue.