Travelling across Europe on a budget is possible with careful planning and affordable transport options. With a Schengen visa, visitors can explore multiple countries without additional entry requirements. Train and bus services connect major cities, with fares starting from as low as €9.

Travel times range from one to six hours between destinations. Budget airlines also offer low-cost flights. Accommodation options include hostels and budget hotels. Public transport systems provide cost-effective ways to navigate cities, making multi-country travel within Europe accessible.

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Madrid, Spain to Lisbon, Portugal

Madrid, Spain to Lisbon, Portugal

Madrid, the capital of Spain, is an ideal starting point for a budget-friendly European adventure. From here, travellers can easily reach Lisbon, Portugal’s coastal capital, in just one hour by flight, with fares ranging from €20 to €50. For those who prefer ground travel, buses are available for as little as €11, though the journey takes approximately eight hours. Madrid offers world-class museums, historic architecture, and a lively food scene, while Lisbon charms visitors with its colourful streets, iconic tramlines, and affordable seafood dishes.

Paris, France to Brussels, Belgium

Paris, France to Brussels, Belgium

From Lisbon, travellers can head to Paris, the French capital known for its iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum. Paris is well-connected to Brussels, Belgium’s capital, by train, with a journey time of just 1.5 hours and fares starting at €70. Budget-conscious travellers can opt for buses, which cost around €16. Brussels is renowned for its grand squares, medieval architecture, and, of course, its waffles and chocolates. The short travel time between these two cities makes it easy to experience both in a single trip.

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Munich, Germany to Salzburg, Austria

Munich, Germany to Salzburg, Austria

Munich is famous for its beer gardens, historic sites, and proximity to the Bavarian Alps. From Munich, travellers can take a 1.5-hour train ride to Salzburg, Austria, with tickets costing between €40 and €50. Buses are a cheaper alternative, priced at around €9. Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart, is a picturesque city surrounded by mountains and known for its baroque architecture and rich musical heritage. The short distance between Munich and Salzburg makes this an efficient and affordable addition to any European trip.

Copenhagen, Denmark to Malmö, Sweden

Copenhagen, Denmark to Malmö, Sweden

From Salzburg, travellers can fly to Copenhagen, Denmark’s stylish capital, known for its cycling culture, historic waterfront, and innovative cuisine. Copenhagen is just 40 minutes away from Malmö, Sweden, by train, with tickets costing €15. Buses are also available, taking approximately one hour and 15 minutes, with fares starting at €21. Malmö offers a mix of modern architecture, historic sites, and a relaxed coastal vibe. The proximity of these two cities allows travellers to experience both Danish and Swedish cultures in a single day.

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Helsinki, Finland to Tallinn, Estonia

Helsinki, Finland to Tallinn, Estonia

The final leg of this budget-friendly journey takes travellers to Helsinki, Finland’s capital, known for its design heritage, maritime history, and vibrant food scene. From Helsinki, a ferry ride to Tallinn, Estonia, costs between €20 and €30 and takes approximately two hours. Tallinn’s medieval old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a major draw for visitors, offering cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and affordable dining options. The ferry ride itself provides stunning views of the Baltic Sea, making it a memorable conclusion to the trip.

Chisom Michael is a data analyst (audience engagement) and writer at BusinessDay, with diverse experience in the media industry. He holds a BSc in Industrial Physics from Imo State University and an MEng in Computer Science and Technology from Liaoning Univerisity of Technology China. He specialises in listicle writing, profiles and leveraging his skills in audience engagement analysis and data-driven insights to create compelling content that resonates with readers.

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