Travel on a Budget: A 14-Day Low-Cost Itinerary for Southern Europe

Southern Europe offers history, food, and mild climates — and it can be done affordably. This 14-day itinerary balances culture, relaxation, and cost-conscious choices. Expect a blend of trains, short flights, budget-friendly eating, and selected splurges.

Budget assumptions

Daily budget target: $60–$120 per person, excluding international flights. This covers budget accommodation, local transport, meals at casual eateries, and modest sightseeing fees.

Days 1–3: Lisbon, Portugal

Stay in a central guesthouse and buy a 24-hour transit pass for trams and metro. Highlights: Alfama district, Belém pastries, and a sunset at Miradouro da Senhora do Monte. Eat at local tascas for filling, inexpensive meals.

Days 4–6: Seville & Granada, Spain

Take an overnight bus to Seville to save time and accommodation costs. In Seville, visit the Alcázar and walk the old quarter. Move to Granada by bus; plan your Alhambra tickets in advance. Tapas culture helps keep food spending low — many bars still offer free small plates with drinks.

Days 7–9: Valencia and Barcelona

Valencia offers beaches and the City of Arts and Sciences. Use regional trains to Barcelona; book early for the best fares. In Barcelona, explore neighborhoods like Gràcia and El Born rather than touristy Las Ramblas for better food value.

Days 10–12: Nice and the French Riviera

Take a budget flight to Nice or an overnight train. The Riviera can be expensive, so base yourself in Nice and take cheap local buses to nearby towns like Antibes. Bring your swimsuit and picnic on the beach for a memorable, low-cost day.

Days 13–14: Rome, Italy

Finish in Rome for history and cuisine. Walk extensively to save on transport and eat where locals do — piazza-side menu prices can be higher, so scan side streets. Reserve Colosseum tickets ahead to avoid lines.

Money-saving tips

• Travel overnight when feasible to save on a night’s lodging.
• Use local markets for breakfast and picnic supplies.
• Book trains and budget flights early; compare multi-city routes.
• Consider city tourist cards only if you’ll visit multiple paid attractions.

"Moderate planning and flexibility unlock big savings without missing the highlights."

Packing and planning

Pack light to avoid checked bag fees. Bring a reusable water bottle and a modest daypack. Reserve must-see attractions in advance and leave some free time for unplanned discoveries.

This itinerary provides structure but leaves room for spontaneity. Adjust the days to match your interests, and you’ll get a rich cultural experience without breaking the bank.