Backpacking through Europe is truly a dream, but there’s one big question that always comes up: Is Europe cheap for backpackers? The answer isn’t quite black and white. Europe can be both budget-friendly and expensive, depending on where you go, how you travel, and the choices you make along the way. Some countries will stretch your dollar (or euro) further, while others will have you counting every cent. Let’s break it down.
Backpacking Western Europe: Pricey but Iconic
If you’re dreaming of Paris, London, Amsterdam, or Rome, be prepared to spend. Western Europe is known for its high cost of living, and that trickles down to backpackers. Accommodation, food, and attractions can quickly drain your budget if you’re not careful. A hostel bed in cities like London or Paris can easily cost $40-$60 per night. And if you are in those cities on a Friday or Saturday night during peak tourist season, don't be surprised if you see the price for a hostel dorm bed go for $60-$80.
How to save while backpacking Western Europe:
Consider staying in hostels outside the city center and using public transport.
Look for free walking tours. Many cities offer them, and they’re a great way to explore without spending extra money. Plus its easy to meet people!
Eat like a local. Instead of sitting down at a pricey restaurant, grab a baguette and cheese in Paris or go for tapas in Spain where some bars offer free tapas with a drink.
Backpacking Western Europe MUST HAVE:
An RFID blocking wallet. Western Europe is safe overall, but pickpocketing can be common in crowded tourist areas and train stations. An RFID wallet keeps your cards protected and your valuables secure. The only time I can confirm that somebody 110% got their credit card information stolen via a RFID scam was in Barcelona.
Backpacking Eastern Europe: A Backpacker’s Paradise
If you want to stretch your money, head east. Countries like Poland, Hungary, Romania, and Bulgaria offer incredible experiences at a fraction of the cost of Western Europe. A hostel bed in Budapest or Krakow can be found for as little as $10-$15. Street food is delicious and cheap, and even sit-down meals won’t break the bank. A beer in Prague or Bucharest often costs less than a bottle of water in Paris.
Best budget destinations in Eastern Europe:
Budapest, Hungary – Soak in the thermal baths and enjoy ruin bars without burning through your budget.
Krakow, Poland – Explore the stunning Old Town and visit nearby Auschwitz on a budget-friendly tour.
Sofia, Bulgaria – A city with history, charm, and cheap eats, where a meal can cost less than $5.
Backpacking Eastern Europe MUST HAVE:
A travel coin pouch. Many countries still use coins frequently for public transport and small purchases.
Backpacking Scandinavia: A Dream That Comes with a Price
There’s no sugarcoating it... Scandinavia is expensive. Norway, Sweden, and Denmark regularly top lists of the most costly countries in the world. A simple fast-food meal can cost $15, and a beer at a bar can be upwards of $10. Hostels are pricey too, often starting at $50 per night.
Backpacking Scandinavia on a budget:
Embrace the outdoors. Norway’s fjords and Sweden’s nature reserves are free to explore.
Buy groceries and cook your meals. Many hostels have kitchens, so use them!
Use public transport wisely. Some cities offer tourist passes that can help you save money.
Backpacking Scandinavia MUST HAVE:
A sleep mask. With midnight sun during summer months, a good night’s rest can be hard to come by without one.
Backpacking The Balkans: Underrated and Affordable
If you want Mediterranean beauty without Mediterranean prices, the Balkans are where it’s at. Croatia, Serbia, Montenegro, and Albania offer stunning coastlines, delicious food, and historic cities at a fraction of what you’d pay in Italy or Greece.
Backpacking the Balkans Highlights:
Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina – A city with rich history, great food, and hostel stays for under $15.
Kotor, Montenegro – A stunning bay with hiking and old-town charm that’s cheaper than Dubrovnik.
Tirana, Albania – One of Europe’s most budget-friendly capitals with a growing backpacker scene. Honestly, Albania all together is such a GEM!
Backpacking the Balkans MUST HAVE:
A travel towel. Whether you're beach-hopping along the Adriatic or staying in a hostel without free towels, a compact, quick-drying travel towel is an essential you’ll use every day.
Transportation: Budget Airlines, Trains, and Buses
One of the best things about Europe is how easy it is to get around. The way you travel will affect your budget significantly.
Budget airlines: Ryanair, EasyJet, and Wizz Air offer ultra-cheap flights, but watch out for baggage fees.
Trains: Rail passes like the Eurail Pass can be a great deal if you’re covering a lot of ground. But in some cases, buses are cheaper.
Buses: FlixBus is a lifesaver for backpackers, offering affordable routes across the continent.
Hitchhiking: In some parts of Europe, especially the Balkans and Eastern Europe, hitchhiking is common and safe. Definitely read up on some tips and tricks for hitchhiking for the first time.
Food: Feast on a Budget
Food is one of the best parts of traveling, and in Europe, you don’t have to spend a fortune to eat well. Street food is your best friend, from döner kebabs in Germany to burek in the Balkans.
Supermarkets and bakeries: Grabbing snacks from a local market or grocery store can save a lot of money.
Street food: Try a €2 slice of pizza in Italy, a cheap bratwurst in Berlin, or a hearty goulash in Hungary.
Daily specials: Many restaurants in Europe offer lunch specials that are far cheaper than dinner menus.
Free Things to Do While Backpacking Europe
Not everything has to cost money! Many of Europe’s best experiences are completely free.
Museums and landmarks: Many European cities have free museum days or national landmarks that don’t require tickets.
Nature and hiking: From the Alps to coastal trails in Portugal, Europe is full of free outdoor adventures.
Festivals: Cities like Berlin and Prague have free cultural events year-round.
So, Is Europe Cheap for Backpackers?
It can be. If you stick to Eastern Europe, the Balkans, and budget-friendly choices, you can absolutely backpack through Europe without breaking the bank. If you want to visit Western Europe or Scandinavia, you’ll need to be more strategic with your spending. The key is planning ahead, being flexible, and embracing the backpacker mindset. No matter where you go, Europe offers unforgettable experiences at any budget.