Where and How to Stay in Europe with $150/Day

For most Americans, a trip to Europe generally costs thousands of dollars. But only smart travelers know that you can easily spend a fulfilling stay in Europe with $150/day instead. If you are among those looking for budget-friendly plans, we have curated them for you in this blog. This hidden multi-city route in Europe covers seven amazing countries. You'll experience authentic culture without breaking your budget completely.

Why do some cities offer a stay in Europe with $150/day?

Traditionally, an European itinerary consists of luxury stays and expensive dine-in options. While this applies to major European parts, some places are completely opposite to that. You can easily plan a one-day itinerary to Europe under $150/day within these cities. Trust me, this amazing plethora of options will completely transform your viewpoint towards a European vacation. 

Cities like Prague, Budapest, Krakow, Vienna, and Ljubljana offer unique culture and reasonable prices. You can use transportation to connect these cities, which perfectly connect travelers. Train tickets cost less than American domestic flights. Food prices make dining out affordable every night.

 

Where and How to Stay in Europe under $150/day

Zagreb, Croatia ($100/Day)

In Zagreb's central district, vehicles are avoided. Which means a pedestrian-friendly environment. It also offers easy access to the Ban Josip Jelačić Square. It is the focal point of the city. The borders are also lined up with shops and cafes. Even with cheap flights to Zagreb,  Croatia, you do not have to worry about meals.  If you are looking for fresh fruits, you can also visit the Dolac Market. Filled with historic charm and modern café culture, Zagreb Castle is a perfect destination. The top of the castle offers a bird's-eye view of the city. The Sava River offers serene cruises, and tickets are less than $20 per person. Modest fee bicycle tours cover the city and also the neighboring countryside. 

In Zagreb, mid-range hotels average $50–80 euros per night, and hostels are even cheaper, costing around $15-20. A meal at local restaurants serving genuine cuisine costs between 15 and 30 euros. Coffee, as well as light meals, are served in informal bistros for less than 10 euros. Daily expenditures for accommodation, food, transportation, and leisure activities range from $75 to 130. Zagreb combines reasonable costs with a rich culture. The same reason is behind its being an attraction to a wide range of tourists. However, you may have to fight with online sites to find cheap airfare to Zagreb, Croatia, but staying there is another story. 

Prague, Czech Republic ($80/day)

Prague’s medieval architecture exceeds any Western European capital city. In some places, even beer costs less than bottled water in restaurants. Castle tours, river cruises, and walking tours are full of knowledge and entertainment. Hostel beds cost $15-20 per night. However, Czech meals rarely exceed $8-12 per person.

The city's public transportation runs efficiently and cheaply. Day passes cost under $5 for unlimited travel. Prague's old town feels like a fairy tale. Street performers and markets create vibrant daily atmospheres. Charles Bridge photographs rival Paris postcards perfectly.

Budapest, Hungary ($120/Day)

Budapest offers the best value if you haven’t used Europe Business class flights for your travel. The thermal baths provide a unique European relaxation. Hungarian cuisine could surprise you with its bold flavors. Ruin bars create unforgettable nightlife memories for visitors. The Danube River splits Buda and Pest beautifully.

Parliament building tours cost under $20 per person. Traditional Hungarian restaurants serve huge portions. Public baths cost $15-25 for full-day access. Walking tours reveal fascinating history and local secrets. Night river cruises showcase the city's illuminated beauty.

Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon’s cobblestone streets take you on a historical journey and offer magical hilltop views. Alfama’s winding alleys charm visitors with Fado music and the classic tram’s creak. Jerónimos Monastery costs about $12 to enter, a grand tribute to explorers. Belem Tower stands majestic, though the inside is surprisingly underwhelming, priced at $8.

Dining at a tasca is a feast, with huge plates for $15–30. Lunches are cheap, menu items start from $8–12, with sandwiches costing $3–5. Lisbon nightlife explodes at rooftop bars and cozy tasca. The drinks cost between $8–13. Coffee costs $1–3; local wines delight at around $4 per glass. Despite tourist crowds, the city impresses without emptying wallets. Yet some landmarks are overrated, and queues can test patience. 

Preparing a one-day itinerary for Lisbon is very easy and joyful. If you are on a budget trip. The flights may cost high, but consolidators such as Travelopod generally offer lower prices, with special deals. 

Krakow, Poland ($35/day)

Krakow represents the route's most affordable destination. Medieval squares compete with Prague's stunning architecture. Pierogi restaurants serve hearty meals for $5-7. Salt mine tours create underground adventure experiences. The Jewish quarter tells important historical stories.

Auschwitz day trips provide sobering educational experiences nearby. Local markets sell handmade crafts at reasonable prices. Traditional Polish restaurants welcome American visitors warmly. Walking tours cost $10-15 per person. Free museum days save additional money regularly.

How to Keep Costs at $150 Daily: Money Management Tips

Accommodation Strategy ($30-40/day)

• Book private rooms in hostels for comfort. 

• Airbnb apartments work better for longer stays. 

• Location matters less with excellent public transportation. 

• Book accommodations 60 days ahead for discounts. 

• Consider staying slightly outside city centers.

Transportation Costs ($20-30/day)

• Regional trains connect all cities on this route. Book train tickets online for better prices. 

• City public transport day passes save money. 

• Walking reduces transportation costs significantly in centers. 

• Overnight trains save one night's accommodation costs.

Food Budget ($40-50/day)

• Grocery shopping cuts breakfast costs dramatically. 

• Lunch at local markets provides authentic experiences. 

• Dining at local restaurants supports community businesses. 

• Street food offers quick and affordable options. 

• Local supermarkets stock familiar American brand products.

Activities and Sightseeing ($30-40/day)

• Free walking tours operate in every city. 

• Many museums offer free admission days regularly. 

• City parks provide free entertainment and relaxation. 

• Local festivals happen frequently throughout the year. 

• Photography walks cost nothing but create memories.

Money-Saving Tips Nobody Mentions

• Student discounts work even for older travelers. 

• City tourism cards bundle attractions with savings. 

• Off-season travel reduces accommodation costs by half. 

• Local SIM cards cost less than roaming. 

• Public restrooms cost money; plan accordingly.

Best Time To Travel: Maximising Every Penny

• Spring offers mild weather and lower prices. 

• Summer brings festivals but higher accommodation costs. 

• Fall provides beautiful scenery and moderate crowds. 

• Winter creates magical Christmas market experiences. 

• Shoulder seasons balance, late March to May—and autumn—September to October, can be taken into consideration.

Book flights 94 days ahead for the cheapest flight deals to Europe. Midweek departures cost less than weekend flights. Open-jaw tickets save backtracking time and money. Consider a round-trip flight to Lisbon, Portugal,  to book at lower airfares.

Add-on Tips for A Memorable Journey

• Learn basic phrases in each local language. 

• Download offline maps before arriving in cities. 

• Pack light for easier train station navigation. 

• Keep receipts for travel expense tracking purposes. 

• Take notes about favorite restaurants and experiences.

• Connect with other travelers in hostel common areas. 

• Join free walking tours on arrival days. 

• Visit local markets for authentic cultural experiences. 

• Try regional specialties in each destination you visit. 

Making the Most of Your Journey

$150/day is enough for a transforming multi-city Europe journey. Turn your travel dreams into an affordable reality. Seven countries, fourteen days, countless memories await discovery. 

Your next European adventure costs less than imagined. Start planning this incredible journey today and experience Europe differently from most American tourists.