Europe is one of those places that’s incredibly hard to beat for a family holiday. With dozens of countries packed into a relatively small area, it offers everything from iconic cities and beautiful coastlines to dramatic landscapes and rich history. You can wander the streets of Paris, explore ancient ruins in Rome, relax on Greek islands or take in the wild scenery of places like Iceland or Norway — often just a short flight apart.
One of the things I love most about Europe is how accessible it feels. You’re rarely more than a couple of hours away from somewhere completely different, which makes it an easy option whether you’re planning a long summer break or a shorter getaway.
That said, Europe doesn’t have the cheapest reputation — especially when you’re travelling as a family. Compared to destinations like Asia or parts of Africa, costs can add up quickly if you’re not careful. The good news is that with a bit of planning and a few smart choices, it’s absolutely possible to explore Europe without blowing your budget.
Here are some simple, realistic ways families can save money on a European holiday.
1. Choose Budget-Friendly Destinations
While some European countries are famously expensive, plenty are surprisingly affordable. Places like Poland, North Macedonia, Bosnia and Herzegovina or Moldova often offer much cheaper accommodation, food and transport than countries such as France, Italy or Spain. Flights to these destinations can also be far more reasonable, making them great options for families looking to stretch their budget further.
2. Travel During Shoulder Seasons
School holidays often mean peak prices, but if you have any flexibility at all, travelling during the shoulder seasons can make a huge difference. Late spring and early autumn usually offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds and significantly lower prices for flights, accommodation and attractions – School holidays are always higher than the weeks around it but the Summer Holidays in July and August are higher than any of them so if you can avoid then do it!
3. Book Flights Early and Stay Flexible
Last-minute deals do exist, but for families, booking flights earlier often works out cheaper and far less stressful. Flights can be one of the biggest costs of a European trip, so securing them early gives you a better chance of locking in lower fares and better seat options. Being flexible with travel days can also open up cheaper routes. We booked our flights last year super cheaply because we booked in advance.
4. Opt for Self-Catering Accommodation
Self-catering accommodation is one of the easiest ways to save money as a family. Apartments and holiday rentals are often cheaper than hotels and give you the option to cook meals rather than eating out for every meal. It’s especially helpful if you’re travelling with fussy eaters — a quick supermarket shop can save money and stress.
5. Shop Around for Insurance
Travel insurance is essential, but that doesn’t mean you need to pay over the odds. Shopping around can save you money, especially if you need cover for things like car hire excess or specific activities. It’s one of those costs that’s easy to overlook, but worth getting right.
If you plan to hire a vehicle to explore further afield, it’s worth considering car hire excess insurance with RentalCover. We always do this for peace of mind when we’re away.
6. Eat Like a Local
Food costs can spiral quickly if you rely on cafes and restaurants for every meal. Mixing self-catering with eating out is a good balance, and when you do eat out, try to go where locals go. Tourist-heavy areas often charge much more for the same food you’d find cheaper a few streets away. We definitely found this to be true when we went to Bulgaria last Summer the cost of meals is usually much higher in tourist-trap restaurants.
7. Make the Most of Free Attractions
Some of the best things to do in Europe don’t cost anything at all. Parks, beaches, historic neighbourhoods, playgrounds and public squares are often free and perfect for families. Many museums offer free entry days, and self-guided walking tours and trails can be downloaded straight to your phone.
8. Plan Day Trips Instead of Constantly Moving
It’s tempting to cram in as many cities as possible, but constantly moving can get expensive and tiring. Choosing one base and taking day trips from there can save money on accommodation and transport while still letting you see plenty.
9. Be Smart About How You Pay
It’s always good to have a credit card for emergencies, but using cash or your debit card where possible can help you stick to your budget and avoid extra charges. If you’re exchanging money, it’s worth finding competitive rates rather than relying on convenience – have a look here for an idea of the current Euro foreign exchange reference rates here.
10. Always Ask About Discounts
Many attractions, shops and restaurants across Europe offer discounts for families, students or children — but they’re not always advertised. It’s always worth asking, as those small savings can really add up.
You can make some amazing memories without spending a fortune.
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