An European holiday is a dream for many travelers. From the romantic streets of Paris to the historic charm of Rome and the cozy cafes of Prague, Europe has something for everyone. But before you set off, it’s important to understand how much a week-long trip will actually cost. Planning your budget smartly can make the difference between a stressful experience and a smooth, enjoyable adventure.
Let’s break down what a 7-day trip to Europe from India might realistically cost, covering everything from flights and stays to food, transport, and sightseeing.
Flights to Europe from India
Flights are usually the biggest expense in any European vacation. A round trip from India to Europe can cost anywhere between ₹45,000 and ₹75,000 in economy class, depending on your city of departure and the destination you choose. Cities like Istanbul, Prague, Budapest, and Athens tend to be more affordable, while Paris, Rome, Amsterdam, and Vienna are slightly on the higher side.
Booking at least two to three months in advance and being flexible with your travel dates can help you save a significant amount. You can also use tools like Google Flights or Skyscanner to track price drops and find cheaper routes. If you are open to it, flying into a less crowded airport such as Milan or Warsaw often costs less than landing directly in popular hubs like Paris or London.
Accommodation Costs
Your stay will be another major part of your travel budget. Accommodation costs vary widely based on the city, location, and comfort level you prefer. On average, you can expect to spend between ₹6,000 and ₹12,000 per night. Budget travelers can find good hostels or guesthouses starting at ₹3,000 per night, while mid-range hotels usually range from ₹7,000 to ₹10,000. If you’re looking for a more luxurious experience, boutique or high-end hotels can go beyond ₹15,000 per night.
For a 7-day trip, the total accommodation cost could fall anywhere between ₹45,000 and ₹80,000. To save some money, consider staying in an Airbnb or boutique hotel that’s a little outside the city center but still well-connected by public transport. These options are often quieter and more local in feel.
Food and Dining
European cuisine is one of the best parts of any trip, but it’s easy to spend more than you plan if you eat out for every meal. On average, you can budget between ₹2,500 and ₹4,000 per day for food. A simple breakfast can cost around ₹500 to ₹800 unless it’s included in your stay. Lunch at a local café or casual restaurant might be ₹800 to ₹1,500, while dinner at a nice restaurant could cost around ₹1,000 to ₹2,000.
That means for a week-long trip, you should set aside around ₹18,000 to ₹25,000 for meals. If you want to save a bit, grab snacks or sandwiches from local bakeries, try supermarket takeaways, or enjoy picnics in city parks. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also get a taste of everyday European life.
Getting Around Europe
Transport within Europe is both convenient and efficient. Depending on how many cities you plan to visit, your transportation budget could range between ₹10,000 and ₹20,000. For those exploring multiple countries, Eurail passes or budget airlines like Ryanair and EasyJet offer great value. Within individual cities, it’s best to use metros, trams, or local buses instead of taxis, which are often expensive.
A metro day pass usually costs around ₹800 to ₹1,200, and intercity train tickets like Paris to Brussels can range from ₹3,000 to ₹5,000. Walking or renting a bicycle is another great way to explore, especially in cities like Amsterdam, Florence, or Prague that are known for their pedestrian-friendly streets.
Sightseeing and Experiences
Europe is filled with art, history, and culture at every corner. Many of its most beautiful attractions, like city squares, cathedrals, and viewpoints, are free to visit. However, museum entries, guided tours, and day trips can add up over time. Plan to spend around ₹10,000 to ₹20,000 for sightseeing and experiences during your trip.
Museum entry tickets usually cost between ₹1,000 and ₹2,000, while guided day tours can range from ₹4,000 to ₹8,000. If you’re planning to visit multiple attractions, consider getting a city pass such as the Paris Pass or Rome Pass, which offers discounts on major sites and public transport. Also, keep an eye out for free entry days that many museums and cultural sites offer every month.
Total Cost Estimate for a 7-Day Europe Trip
To give you a clear idea, here’s a general estimate based on your travel style:
- Budget Traveler: Around ₹1.2 to ₹1.3 lakh
- Mid-range Traveler: Around ₹1.7 to ₹2 lakh
- Luxury Traveler: ₹2.7 lakh and above
This includes flights, stays, food, local transportation, and sightseeing. Of course, your personal preferences will make a difference, but these figures provide a realistic framework to plan your dream vacation.
Final Thoughts
A 7-day holiday in Europe doesn’t have to be an expensive fantasy. With smart planning, a bit of research, and flexible choices, you can experience the best of Europe even on a reasonable budget. Traveling during the shoulder seasons, using public transport, eating locally, and booking in advance are all small steps that can make a big difference.
Whether you’re wandering through cobbled streets in Prague, enjoying gelato in Rome, or watching the sunset over the Seine in Paris, Europe offers unforgettable experiences at every turn. With the right budgeting and planning, that dream vacation can soon become a reality.