How to Save Money While Traveling in Europe: 8 Tourist Mistakes That Make You Pay More

Traveling in Europe can be much cheaper if you avoid common tourist mistakes. Find out how to save on food, transportation, museums, and tours in the EU without sacrificing comfort or the travel experience

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Traveling in Europe has long ceased to be exclusively an “expensive pleasure.” Even in cities like London, Paris, or Copenhagen, you can enjoy a comfortable vacation without breaking the bank. Most often, tourists overspend not because of high prices, but because of common mistakes — ill-considered restaurant choices, expensive transportation, or ignoring free options for tourists.

RBC-Ukraine writes about this, compiling the most common mistakes travelers make and practical ways to save on food, transportation, and entertainment in Europe.

Why do tourists spend more than necessary in Europe?

Many travelers budget only for tickets and hotels, but the main expenses during a trip often arise once they’re already there. Tourists overspend the most on:

● meals near popular tourist spots;

● spontaneous expenses;

● expensive tours;

● transportation;

● tourist “traps” in city centers.

At the same time, experienced travelers have long used simple rules that allow them to significantly cut costs without sacrificing comfort or the experience of the trip.

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How to avoid overpaying for food in Europe?

Here are a few tips to help you save money.

Opt for business lunches and Menu del Dia

In many European countries, restaurants offer set lunches during the day—usually from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM.

In Spain, this is often called the Menu del Dia. For a fixed price, a tourist can get a full two- or three-course meal that costs significantly less than ordering individual items from the menu.

In some cities, this option can save you tens of euros daily, especially during extended trips.

Avoid eating near major attractions

One of the most common mistakes tourists make is choosing cafes or restaurants right next to popular locations.

Just walk 300–500 meters away from central squares or landmarks, and prices can be 30–50% lower. Additionally, it’s often in residential neighborhoods where you can find more authentic local cuisine.

Use apps to save money

Among the popular services for tourists is the Too Good To Go mobile app.

Through it, restaurants, cafes, and bakeries sell leftover fresh food at the end of the day with significant discounts—sometimes up to 70%.

This format has long been popular in EU countries and allows you not only to save money but also to support responsible consumption without waste.

Have picnics instead of dining out every day

In many European cities, dinner in a park or by a river can be just as atmospheric as an expensive restaurant.

Local cheeses, pastries, fruit, or wine from the supermarket will cost significantly less than a full-fledged restaurant visit. Plus, it lets you better feel the city’s rhythm and local culture.

See also: Charter flights vs. scheduled flights: what's the difference, and which tickets should you choose?

How to save on entertainment and tours?

Here’s what will help you save money.

Free Walking Tours

Free Walking Tours operate in almost every major European city.

These tours are led by professional guides, and tourists decide for themselves how much to tip at the end of the walk. It’s a great way to get to know the city without expensive tours.

Check for free admission days at museums

Many famous European museums have special hours or days with free admission.

For example, in some galleries, you can visit exhibitions for free on the first Sunday of the month or in the evenings on weekdays. That’s why tourists are advised to check the museums’ official websites in advance before their trip.

Don’t forget about discounts

In Europe, special rates are often available for young people under 26, students, or seniors. Even if a discount isn’t listed on the website, it’s worth asking at the ticket counter about “special prices” or available discounted tickets.

City Passes and transit cards help you save

If you plan to visit museums frequently or use the metro or public transit, it’s more cost-effective to buy a City Pass or city tourist card. In many European cities, these include:

● free transit;

● museum discounts;

● free admission to popular attractions;

● additional perks for tourists.

A tip to help you save money every day

Experienced travelers recommend always carrying a reusable water bottle with you.

In many European cities, including Rome, Paris, and Vienna, the water from street fountains is safe to drink. This allows you to save a few euros every day on buying water.

In addition to budgeting, it’s also important for tourists to plan for safety in advance. For Ukrainians planning a trip to EU countries, purchasing health insurance through Visit Ukraine helps avoid unexpected medical expenses abroad and provides peace of mind during your journey.

Indeed, Europe offers tourists countless ways to save money without compromising the quality of their vacation. Free tours, city tourist maps, local supermarkets, and proper planning allow you to see more and spend significantly less. The golden rule of experienced travelers is not to overpay for the “tourist facade,” but to seek out local experiences, which often turn out to be not only cheaper but also much more interesting.

We remind you! Spontaneous trips around Europe are becoming increasingly popular, and tourists are more often choosing Eastern Europe, the Baltics, and the Balkans. Read about which destinations have seen the biggest growth in bookings and why they attract travelers.

Photo: mustafaferhatbeksen / Freepik

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