5 Best Ways to Travel Europe

Looking for the best ways to travel Europe? In this post, we’ll tackle the 5 best ways to traverse the continent without breaking the bank and maximizing your trip experience to the fullest!

Europe is a small continent, and you’d be surprised how a couple of hours can take you to one or two different countries in such a short time. The best part is that you don’t even have to take a plane to get there!

I’ve traveled Europe extensively as a budget backpacker and a seasonal, splurge-indulging traveler who hunts travel deals like a crazy maniac. This tells you that a little research ahead of time can help you create a travel plan around Europe and maximize your visit for the optimum experience.

So, here are my tips on how to travel around Europe!

Here’re some related reads for further reading to help you plan your European trip:

• Top 9 Tips on How to Explore Europe by Train
• 2.5 Weeks Europe Itinerary: Travel around the Balkans by Bus
• When is the Coldest Month in Europe?
• When is the Rainy Season in Europe?
• Tips for Saving When Traveling During the Holidays

Ways to Travel Europe FAQ’s

Traveling around Europe by train, car, bus, or budget airline is efficient, but which is the best?

Truly, it all depends on how you layout your itinerary, so make sure to research your route correctly because some destinations where certain modes of transportation best reach it.

For example, Southern and Central Europe is so beautiful if you explore it by train or by bus if you’re crossing countries. However, traveling by bus would have been the best option within the country.

If I had one opinion, I’d choose the transportation mode that fits your itinerary. For instance, if you’re in Europe just for a week and would like to check out 2-3 different destinations located in 2-3 different countries, then your schedule is quite tight – what I would suggest is to choose those destinations carefully and make sure that it doesn’t take longer than 5 hours to get from country A to country C.

For example, I’d like to visit Paris, Brussels, and Amsterdam for one week – these cities are located in 3 different countries, and the most efficient way to travel between them is by train. It takes under 5 hours to travel between each city, making this itinerary doable without burning me out. So, in this scenario – train travel is the best option.

Another example is when I traveled between Sarajevo, Zagreb, and Budapest for two weeks – again, these cities are in 3 different countries, and I chose to travel by bus to each destination because, at that time, I was backpacking with a limited budget but with a longer vacation time so I had the time to spare but not much money to spend. I also booked my flights separately, I flew to Sarajevo from Helsinki and back from Budapest.

So, as you can see, it depends on many factors what mode of transportation around Europe would be the best, but honestly, it doesn’t matter which one you choose for yourself – you’ll have an experience of a lifetime.

What is the best way to travel to Europe on a budget?

If you’re an EU citizen and are under 28 or a student, you get a discount from the adult Interrail pass, which makes it a budget-friendly way to travel around Europe. This rule applies to non-EU citizens, but you must get the Eurail instead.

If you have the time to spend, the bus would be the optimum option to help you stretch your budget. Traveling Europe by bus, most often than not, offers the cheapest option.

That said, hitchhiking would be free if you’re in a pinch. Just be careful.

Is it cheaper to fly or train in Europe?

It depends on where you are going, sometimes, flying using budget airlines can be cheaper than train travel ONLY if you’re flying long distance, i.e. Helsinki to Paris. But once you’re in Paris and, let’s say, you want to go to Berlin, then the train would be the cheapest option.

So, plan your trip to Europe properly so you can utilize the amazing deals we often have regarding local and cross-country transportation bargains.

If you want to check cheap flights, I always use Skyscanner – you can check my post here on how to find the best deals.

How easy is it to travel between European countries?

Super easy and breezy. Transportation in Europe is straightforward as it gets. Europeans travel between countries a lot, so it should be easy for everyone.

Is it better to drive or train around Europe?

There are pros and cons to both. The best thing about driving around Europe is the freedom to go between small villages not easily accessible by public transportation. However, driving takes time, energy, and money, so unless you’re willing to spend those – driving would be an experience worth taking!

However, traveling to Europe by train is breezy, and you can relax while enjoying the view. This is the best option for anyone in Europe for a short period and would not want to waste a single minute of their time. Traveling this way does mean you have to sacrifice a little bit of freedom to choose where to go because not all destinations are accessible by train.

Either way, both options are good!

5 Best Ways to Travel Europe

Travel around Europe by train

Train travel is hands down one of the most convenient, efficient, scenic, and downright enjoyable ways to get around Europe! With countless routes to choose from, take some time to consider your destinations, time constraints, and budget. For non-EU travelers, the Eurail Pass and the Interrail Pass are the go-to options for EU citizens, providing unlimited train travel within a specified duration and region.

Now when booking your tickets, there are a few to do it. You can snag tickets online or quickly pop into the train station on the day of your journey. Just remember, prices vary depending on the time of day and season.

Many trains offer first- and second-class options, with first-class being the more luxurious choice and supplying food and drinks. However, second-class is still a comfy and darn affordable option.

A major advantage of train travel is the opportunity to ogle the stunning scenery of Europe in a convenient, affordable, and comfortable manner.

Not to mention, train journeys are an opportunity to connect with locals and travelers alike. Talk with your fellow passengers and gather intel about their experiences and recommendations for your next destination.

Make sure you have all your travel documents in order, including passports and visas. Pack entertainment such as books or music to keep you occupied during lengthier trips. And don’t forget to stash some snacks and water, just in case train food options are limited.

All in all, traveling to Europe by train is a surreal experience that will surely leave you with unforgettable memories.

Rent a campervan

Renting a campervan is the ultimate way to explore Europe. It’s convenient and comfortable, offering complete control over your itinerary and the freedom to travel at your own pace. With no cramped buses or scheduled trains to worry about, you’re free to experience Europe on your terms.

Renting a campervan isn’t just flexible, it’s affordable too! You’ll save on transportation and accommodation, and with a built-in kitchen, you can enjoy home-style cooking and further save on dining expenses. You can use this time and money to explore hidden gems you would never discover otherwise or immerse yourself in the local culture.

One of the most exciting parts of traveling by campervan is the unique experiences and memories you can create. The scenery in Europe is breathtaking, and it’s all easily accessible by road. You can stop anywhere to take in the sights and capture stunning moments to remember forever.

In summary, renting a campervan is a fantastic option for travelers seeking adventure, convenience, and affordability. It offers you the highest degree of freedom, flexibility, and control over your trip, making it the ultimate way to explore Europe.

Go on a road trip with a car rental

Consider renting a car for your European vacation to control your itinerary completely. Say goodbye to worrying about schedules or waiting for public transportation; instead, explore all the continent’s hidden gems on your terms.

Dauntlessly venture into remote places where public transportation may be unavailable and unlock insights into true European culture by observing residents in their natural surroundings.

You can pause for a quick snapshot or indulge in a local delicacy when renting a car. For example, you can easily tailor your adventure to align with your tastes by visiting ancient museums and landmarks.

Exploring Europe by car is not just convenient but also budget-friendly. You can scrap the hassle of navigating busy train stations or missing connections, ensuring you maximize your holiday time.

Car rental can undoubtedly transform an ordinary European trip into an extraordinary adventure. Boldly explore the stunning landscapes and immerse yourself in local culture for a truly unforgettable experience.

Carpool with fellow travelers with BlaBlaCar

Are you planning a trip to Europe and want to experience more without spending a fortune? Look no further than BlaBlaCar, the ride-sharing platform revolutionizing travel across the continent.

BlaBlaCar isn’t just a cheaper option. You also get to experience an authentic cultural exchange. You’ll make lifelong connections by riding with locals and fellow travelers, learning about diverse cultures, and honing your language skills.

Safety is also a top priority for BlaBlaCar. Drivers are verified, and the platform provides insurance coverage. Plus, the community guidelines ensure everyone is on the same page.

Whether you’re looking for adventure or a quiet retreat, BlaBlaCar is your passport to unforgettable travel experiences.

Explore Europe by bus

Traveling to Europe by bus is one of the popular ways to get around each country and hop on different borders.

Bear in mind that Europe is very small compared to the US, Canada, and Australia – you can take an overnight bus and, without even noticing it, you’ve crossed two different countries in a few hours.

Besides the fact buses run between cities and countries around the clock, it is also the cheapest way to get around Europe. The only culprit is that it is not the quickest way to get around, so if you have time and are traveling on a budget, traveling by bus in Europe is your best choice.

There are many bus companies to choose from; the famous ones are FlixBus, Eurolines, and MegaBus, and they all have many different routes. You can travel around Europe by bus for as little as €5-€10 one way and watch for sales online because sometimes companies like FlixBus have really good deals.

Other than this being the cheapest way to get around, I also have a good tip not only so you can save money on transportation but also on accommodation – if you’re planning to cross country and the distance is quite far, you can take overnight buses and leave in the evening and arrive at your destination in the morning! It is not the most comfortable, but you save money on hostels or hotels.

Utilize budget airline deals

Flying with budget airlines is a smart choice to explore Europe on a budget. These airlines can offer affordable options for quick and comfortable travel across the continent. And the best part? You get to save some money for other exciting activities during your trip!

One of the most popular budget airlines in Europe is Ryanair. They offer flights to over 40 countries and have over 70 bases around Europe. This airline is known for its unbeatable prices and flexibility with booking options. You can also personalize your trip with additional perks like priority boarding and reserved seats.

Another budget airline worth considering is EasyJet. This airline serves over 30 countries in Europe and has a broad range of flight options to choose from, whether you’re looking to travel for business or pleasure. EasyJet allows you to pick the best flight option for your budget and schedule, offering great value for money.

If you’re seeking a more sustainable option, Transavia may be the airline you’re looking for. This Dutch airline emphasizes sustainability and eco-friendliness in its operations. Additionally, they offer flights to over 100 destinations in Europe and free seat selection.

Flying with budget airlines may seem too good, but it allows you to travel comfortably and cheaply. They offer different services and perks that cater to various budget needs. So, if you want to explore Europe without breaking the bank, budget airline travel may be right for you!

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