How Much Does it Cost to Travel in Europe?

When budgeting for a trip to Europe, understanding average costs can significantly benefit your planning. However, prices fluctuate across various European destinations, influenced by individual travel preferences. Consequently, your estimated travel budget will depend on several factors, including your chosen destinations and activities.

This guide highlights travel costs for an average tourist based on data from Numbeo.com. For ease of comparison, I have compiled a ‘vacation basket’ indicating daily expenses for two travelers. Details of this basket are provided at the end of the article.

01. Prague (Czech Republic)

Prague stands out as a top European destination offering excellent value. Visitors can explore the charming streets and iconic sights without incurring high costs, especially if they avoid tourist traps.

Vacation Basket Total*: 75.39€

• Inexpensive Restaurant Meal: 4.44€
• Three-Course Mid-Price Meal at Restaurant (for two): 22.20€
• Transport Ticket: 0.89€
• Taxi (5km): 6.11€

02. Istanbul (Turkey)

Istanbul, lying at the intersection of East and West, offers compelling options for budget-conscious travelers. For even better deals, consider exploring the Asian side of Turkey.

Vacation Basket Total*: 93.22€

• Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant: 4.65€
• Three-Course Mid-Price Meal at Restaurant (for two): 20.15€
• Transport Ticket: 0.71€
• Taxi (5km): 4.09€

03. Lisbon (Portugal)

Lisbon boasts the honor of being the most affordable capital in Western Europe, with costs rivaling those in Eastern Europe, making it a fantastic destination for frugal travelers.

Vacation Basket Total*: 135.59€

• Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant: 7.50€
• Three-Course Mid-Price Meal at Restaurant (for two): 30.00€
• Transport Ticket: 1.50€
• Taxi (5km): 5.85€

04. Berlin (Germany)

Berlin, known for its rich history, surprises many with its affordability. Numerous free cultural attractions enhance its appeal to travelers.

Vacation Basket Total: 138.20€

• Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant: 8.00€
• Three-Course Mid-Price Meal at Restaurant (for two): 40.00€
• Transport Ticket: 2.70€
• Taxi (5km): 13.90€

05. Barcelona (Spain)

Barcelona offers surprisingly low prices despite its popularity, providing numerous free attractions that enhance its allure to visitors.

Vacation Basket Total: 152.04€

• Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant: 11.00€
• Three-Course Mid-Price Meal at Restaurant (for two): 40.00€
• Transport Ticket: 2.10€
• Taxi (5km): 7.70€

06. Rome (Italy)

Rome features notable historical attractions, making it surprisingly budget-friendly for tourists. However, hotel quality can vary, warranting thorough research.

Vacation Basket Total: 166.10€

• Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant: 15.00€
• Three-Course Mid-Price Meal at Restaurant (for two): 50.00€
• Transport Ticket: 1.50€
• Taxi (5km): 11.00€

07. Munich (Germany)

Munich surprises visitors with its low costs due to numerous free-to-access attractions, making it a great choice for cost-effective travel.

Vacation Basket Total: 173.30€

• Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant: 11.50€
• Three-Course Mid-Price Meal at Restaurant (for two): 50.00€
• Transport Ticket: 2.70€
• Taxi (5km): 12.50€

08. Paris (France)

While Paris is known for its high costs, it is still possible to enjoy the city on a budget. Many attractions only require payment for entry, while experiences like strolling through vibrant streets offer great enjoyment for free.

Vacation Basket Total: 194.20€

• Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant: 13.00€
• Three-Course Mid-Price Meal at Restaurant (for two): 50.00€
• Transport Ticket: 1.80€
• Taxi (5km): 11.50€

09. London (United Kingdom)

While London often ranks as one of the more expensive cities, numerous free museums provide visitors with enriching experiences that don’t strain the wallet.

Vacation Basket Total: 225.06€

• Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant: 18.15€
• Three-Course Mid-Price Meal at Restaurant (for two): 60.50€
• Transport Ticket: 3.03€
• Taxi (5km): 22.39€

10. Dublin (Ireland)

Dublin often edges out London for higher costs, particularly concerning accommodation. Travelers should be mindful of their budget while exploring this vibrant city.

Vacation Basket Total: 243.40€

• Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant: 15.00€
• Three-Course Mid-Price Meal at Restaurant (for two): 60.00€
• Transport Ticket: 2.70€
• Taxi (5km): 10.50€

11. Amsterdam (Netherlands)

Known for its high costs, Amsterdam presents a challenge for budget travelers, making it one of the more expensive cities to explore in Europe.

Vacation Basket Total: 248.32€

• Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant: 15.00€
• Three-Course Mid-Price Meal at Restaurant (for two): 60.00€
• Transport Ticket: 2.90€
• Taxi (5km): 13.80€

12. Geneva (Switzerland)

Geneva stands as the most expensive city on this list, without including any additional costs for attractions, urging visitors to reflect on their trip planning.

Vacation Basket Total: 333.13€

• Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant: 25.00€
• Three-Course Mid-Price Meal at Restaurant (for two): 100.00€
• Transport Ticket: 3.00€
• Taxi (5km): 22.75€

*What’s in Our ‘Vacation Basket’?

The ‘vacation basket’ constitutes the approximate costs for a day in each city for two people. This includes one night in a budget hotel, one inexpensive meal, a mid-priced three-course meal for two, two drinks, four transport tickets, one 5km taxi ride, and entry to one top attraction where applicable.

Please note that hotel star ratings differ from country to country, making comparisons challenging. The prices provided here serve solely as a guideline.