How to Plan a Europe Trip from India Under ₹1 Lakh
A trip to Europe is on almost every Indian traveler’s bucket list — but most believe it’s out of budget. What if we told you it’s possible to explore Europe without burning a hole in your pocket?
Yes, with careful planning, budget hacks, and a smart itinerary, you can actually plan a Europe trip from India under ₹1 lakh — including flights, accommodation, local transport, and food!
Let’s break it down for you.
Step 1: Pick the Right Countries
Europe is vast, and not all countries are budget-friendly. For a ₹1 lakh trip, focus on Eastern and Central Europe, where costs are significantly lower than in Western Europe.
Budget-Friendly Countries:
- Hungary (Budapest)
- Czech Republic (Prague)
- Slovakia
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- Bulgaria
These countries offer stunning architecture, rich culture, and delicious food — without the hefty price tags.
Step 2: Cheap Flights from India
International flights eat up the biggest chunk of your budget. But with the right tools, you can grab deals for ₹30,000 – ₹40,000 (round trip).
Tips to Save on Flights:
- Use sites like Skyscanner, Google Flights, or Hopper
- Book at least 3–6 months in advance
- Look for flights to cheaper hubs like Istanbul, Belgrade, or Bucharest — then take a budget airline into the EU
- Be flexible with your dates and departure city (Delhi and Mumbai offer cheaper options)
Step 3: Budget Accommodation Options
You don’t need fancy hotels to enjoy Europe. Save money by staying in:
- Hostels: Clean, fun, and a great way to meet people (₹800–₹1500 per night)
- Airbnb shared apartments
- Couchsurfing: Stay with locals for free
- Capsule hotels in cities like Budapest or Kraków
Budget: ₹10,000–₹15,000 for a 7–10 day trip
Step 4: Use Budget Transport Options
Travel within Europe is easy and economical if you plan well.
- FlixBus: Super cheap buses between cities (₹300–₹1000 per ride)
- Eurail Saver Pass: For multiple train rides (if you plan to visit 3+ countries)
- BlaBlaCar: Carpooling service used by locals
- Walking & public transport: Most cities have excellent metro/bus networks
Budget: ₹5000–₹7000 for intra-Europe transport
Step 5: Eat Smart
Europe is food heaven, but dining out daily can be expensive. Here’s how to eat well on a budget:
- Visit local supermarkets and cook at your hostel/Airbnb
- Eat at local bakeries, street food stalls, or university canteens
- Try set-lunch menus (called “Menu del Dia”) in many cities for cheap
Budget: ₹700–₹1000 per day = ₹7000 for 7–10 days
Step 6: Free and Low-Cost Experiences
Europe has plenty of free attractions:
- Walk across Charles Bridge in Prague
- Visit Fisherman’s Bastion in Budapest
- Explore Old Towns, parks, and street art districts
- Free walking tours (tip-based) in most cities
- Many museums have free days
Budget: ₹3000 for entry fees, tips, and souvenirs
Sample Budget Breakdown (10 Days)
| Category | Estimated Cost (in ₹) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip Flights | ₹35,000 |
| Visa (Schengen) | ₹8,000 |
| Accommodation | ₹12,000 |
| Local Transport | ₹6,000 |
| Food & Water | ₹7,000 |
| Sightseeing/Activities | ₹3,000 |
| Misc/Buffer | ₹9,000 |
| Total | ₹90,000 |
(Leaves some room for shopping or emergencies!)
India is not a destination you tick off a list — it’s a feeling you carry home, stitched to your heart.
Bonus: Schengen Visa Tips
- Apply 30–60 days in advance
- Choose the country you’ll stay in the longest as the “main destination”
- You’ll need return tickets, accommodation proofs, travel insurance & bank statements (show min ₹2–3 lakh balance)
Final Tips to Stick to Budget
- Travel in off-seasons (March–May or Sept–Nov)
- Book combo deals (flights + stays)
- Travel light to avoid extra baggage fees
- Carry a Forex card or Wise account for cheap currency conversion
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