Nidhi
Amit Khanna Staff answered 2 months ago
Budget-Friendly Europe Trip Plan from India
1. Select Affordable Destinations
Focus on budget-friendly countries: Eastern Europe (Poland, Hungary, Czech Republic, Croatia), Balkans (Serbia, Bosnia), or Portugal.
Schengen visa allows travel across multiple countries, so group nearby destinations.
2. Plan the Travel Itinerary
Duration: 7–10 days to balance costs.
Example itinerary:
Day 1-3: Prague (Czech Republic)
Day 4-6: Budapest (Hungary)
Day 7-8: Vienna (Austria)
3. Budget Flights and Transportation
Book flights 4–6 months in advance.
Airlines: Air Arabia, Qatar Airways, Scoot, or Turkish Airlines.
Routes: Delhi/Mumbai to Prague or Budapest (₹30,000–₹45,000 round trip).
Use budget airlines (Ryanair, Wizz Air) for intra-Europe travel.
Take buses/trains for nearby destinations (FlixBus, Eurail passes).
4. Apply for a Schengen Visa
Cost: ~₹7,200/person.
Required documents:
Passport (valid for 6 months).
Flight tickets and accommodation proof.
Bank statements (₹2-3 lakhs balance).
Travel insurance (~₹1,000).
Apply 1–2 months before travel.
5. Budget Accommodation Options
Use budget-friendly booking platforms:
Hostels: ₹1,200–₹2,500/night (Hostelworld, Booking.com).
Airbnb: ₹2,000–₹4,000/night.
Budget hotels: ₹3,000–₹5,000/night.
Stay in city outskirts for cheaper options but near public transport.
6. Affordable Food Options
Daily cost: ₹800–₹1,500.
Tips:
Eat at local bakeries and street food stalls.
Cook meals in hostels with shared kitchens.
Supermarkets: Lidl, Aldi, Carrefour for snacks and groceries.
7. Budget Sightseeing
Free walking tours in most cities (tipping optional).
Purchase city passes for discounts on transport and attractions (e.g., Budapest Card, Prague Card).
Visit free landmarks and parks.
8. Currency Exchange
Exchange INR to Euros in India for better rates (~₹90–₹95/€).
Carry a forex card for safe transactions.
Use apps like Revolut or Niyo for no forex markup.
9. Total Estimated Budget for 7 Days
| Category | Cost (₹) |
|---|---|
| Flights (Round Trip) | 35,000 – 45,000 |
| Visa & Insurance | 8,500 – 9,000 |
| Accommodation | 12,000 – 18,000 |
| Local Transport | 5,000 – 7,000 |
| Food | 5,600 – 10,500 |
| Sightseeing | 3,000 – 5,000 |
| Total | ₹69,000 – ₹95,500 |
10. Tips for Saving Money
Travel in the off-season (April-May or September-October).
Use public transport or rent a bike.
Limit dining out at restaurants.
Book combo passes for multiple attractions.
Travel light to avoid baggage fees on budget airlines.