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Best Stopovers from Europe to Australia

So you have decided to come to Australia. Why not take the opportunity to visit a city or discover another country on the way? Whether you have a few hours or several days, here are the best stopovers when going to Australia!

With the Covid Pandemic, some stop overs are not recommended at the moment. Avoid flying via China and make sure to check the vaccination and transit requirements of your transit countries.

Table of Contents

Stopover in Dubai (United Arab Emirates)

What to do in dubai.

• Dubai Mall is the second largest shopping centre in the world. You can find an aquarium, an Olympic ice rink, a roller coaster and more. You can also do your shopping in no less than one of the 1,200 shops in the mall. And when it comes to eating out, you can choose from over 200 restaurants to suit all budgets.
• Burj Khalifa , the highest tower in the world (828 meters). It is possible to take an elevator that takes you to the most beautiful view of the city. You should not be afraid of heights though…
• The Dubai Fountain is located at the foot of the Burj Khalifa and offers breathtaking water jet shows every night.
• The Deira district . Not far from the airport, you will find the most authentic souks and many traditional restaurants. Definitely worth a visit!

Airlines: Emirates / Quantas

Stopover in Abu Dhabi (United Arab Emirates)

What to do in abu dhabi.

• Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Mosque . It is surely one of the most beautiful mosques in the world! Built in stone and marble and adorned with gold crystal, ceramic and semi-precious stones. It also has the largest Persian carpet ever woven. It dresses the floor of the prayer room that can accommodate in excess of 40.000 worshipers;
• The Emirates Palace is probably the most expensive hotel in the world. You can explore this luxury hotel as if you were visiting a museum;
• The Bedouin Village will introduce you to life in the UAE before oil was struck. It has a traditional mosque and a traditional Bedouin encampment. To better understand the Bedouin culture, it is best to visit the Emirates Heritage Village Museum and its 1.600 m2 park on the seafront near the world’s largest flag (40m2);
• The island of Yas is a location home to many activities. It includes the Yas Marina Formula 1 circuit, the largest indoor amusement park in the world, Ferrari World with the fastest Big 8 (240 km/h), Yas Waterworld and Yas Links 5 start golf course.
• The Louvre Abu Dabhi Museum is a large annex of the Parisian Louvre. Visitors discover a gallery of art from different historical periods and civilizations!

Airlines: Etihad / Virgin Australia

Stopover in Doha (Qatar)

What to do in doha.

• The Corniche is the ideal place to walk along the sea and take in the view of the skyscrapers that characterise the city. It is very popular for its green lawns and flowers and attracts many people in the evening to watch the beautiful sunset. Here you will also find the Heritage Village , a traditional Qatari village showing the ancient crafts of the country;
• The Clock Tower is located at the top of a hill next to the Great Mosque. It offers a beautiful view of the Corniche and the city;
• There are many museums around the city but to discover the art and culture of the country visit the National Museum of Qatar located east of the Corniche in a former royal palace. Also, the Museum of Islamic art is worth a visit. It houses many objects of Muslim dynasties around the world;
• For traditional shopping visit Souq Waqif where you can shop offer local handmade crafts.

Airlines: Qatar Airlines

For short stops (5 hours minimum), these three cities offer “City Tour”. You can discover the city and its main centers of interest by bus. For all information and bookings, visit the website of the city or directly at the ticket office of the airport upon your arrival.

Stopover in Bangkok (Thailand)

What to do in bangkok.

• Undoubtedly the most famous attraction of the city is the Grand Palace . Built in 1782 as the King’s residence, it is a the spiritual center of the Thai kingdom today. Do not miss the ‘Wat Phra Kaew’ Temple which houses the majestic Emerald Buddha and is one of the most sacred places in the country;
• Bangkok is a paradise for shopping. You have the choice between ultra modern shopping centers and street market like the ‘Chatuchak’ market . The shopping in the city caters to all budgets! Do not forget to haggle with the shopkeepers. It is not uncommon to pay less then half they ask initially…
• If you decide to stop over in Bangkok, why not extend your stay in Thailand for some time. At least go out and see the bars and night clubs. The city is famous for its nightlife, apart from the shady bars of Pat Pong known for young backpackers getting fooled by girls/boys, you can go for a drink in the neighbourhoods of Kao San and Soi Rambuttri ;
• If you have a bit more time to spend, do not miss the floating market of Damnoen Saduak which is situated a bit outside the city center.

Airlines: Thai Airlines, KLM

Stopover in Hong Kong

What to do in hong kong.

• The Tian Tian Buddha located on the island of Lantau, not far from the airport, is the largest sitting bronze Buddha in the world. On clear days you can even see it from the plane!
• Take world’s most vertical tram to reach the summit of Victoria Peak and experience its breathtaking view of the city;
• In the center you will find one of the oldest temples in Hong Kong. The Temple of Man Mo was built in 1847 and is dedicated to the gods of literature (‘Man’) and war (‘Mo’);
• A ride on the Tsim Sha Tsui East Promenade will offer you the most beautiful view of Hong Kong with its glittering skyscrapers between the emerald hills and the deep blue water of the harbour. At nightfall you can enjoy the light show that lights up the city!

Airline: Cathay Pacific

Stopover in Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam)

What to do in ho chi minh city.

• In the center of town you can discover the French and American architectures that testify to their history in the country. For example the Cathedral Notre-Dame and the Central Post office where an metal structure built by Gustave Eiffel can be seen;
• If you want to know more about the history of the country take a tour of at least one of the following museums: The War Museum or the War Remnants Museum, which will relentlessly revive the Vietnam War, and the Museum of History which displays 4.000 years of history in a beautiful French colonial building surrounded by botanical gardens;
• At the  Cholon district  you will discover many places of worship amongst the various temples and pagodas, but you will also be able to do some shopping thanks to its street market and taste the local cuisine! To see the most impressive pagodas go to the north of the city center. Here you can admire that of the Emperor of Jade or that of Vinh Hghiem.
• If you have multiple days to spend, leave the city and enjoy an excursion in the Mekong Delta to discover the natural riches and landscapes of the region.

Airline: Vietnam Airlines

Stopover in Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia)

What to do in kuala lumpur.

• Enjoy a great view of Kuala Lumpur by ascending one of the two Petronas towers. The Petronas Twin Towers are 452 meters high. You can admire the view from the sky bridge 170 meters above ground, or from the KL Tower which offers a 360 degree view and a restaurant;
• About ten kilometers north of the city, visit the Hindu sanctuary of Batu Caves and climb its 272 steps. You will find the impressive golden statue of the god Murugan and many mischievous monkeys who will not hesitate to jump on your bags in search of food! This place is a must see for its mountains and beautiful temple in a 100 meter high cave;
• Kuala Lumpur is a very divers city. You can enjoy the many temples and markets by just strolling though town. For tasty typical Chinees and Indian dishes, go to Chinatown or Little India .

Airline: Malaysia Airlines

Stopover in Singapore

What to do in singapore.

• The Marina Bay Sands area will allow you have an beautiful view of the city from the bay. Take a selfie with the Merlion (an iconic landmark), admire the luxurious resort famous for having the longest high altitude pool in the world. Take a walk to the Garden by the Bay with its giant trees and huge greenhouses;
• Singapore is a great example of a modern city. It is extremely clean and has beautiful high-rises. To find out more about the city’s development and discover the plans for the future take a free tour of the Singapore City Gallery on Maxwell Road;
• Visit the Singapore Zoo to explore animals from South and Southeast Asia. It is known to be one of the best zoos in the world with its large enclosures for the animals. It takes at least five hours to get around and the zoo offers very popular night safaris!

Airline: Singapore Airlines

Stopover in Shanghai (China) 

What to do during a stopover in shanghai.

• Visit the west side of the bank (in the Bund ) to get a great view of Shanghai. Take a walk around town and admire the combination of historic buildings and huge skyscrapers;
• Renmin Square or People’s Square is the largest square in the city. You will find the museum district and many cultural places there. Amongst the most interesting to visit are the Shanghai Museum , the Opera House and the Municipal Government Building. If you are there on the weekend you might have the chance to see the place come alive with parents looking for husbands for their daughters!
• If you have to choose just one temple to visit you have to go to the Temple of the Jade Buddha . It is considered the most sacred place of Shanghai. It is knows for its famous Buddha and other religious ornaments.
• The French Concession . A very fashionable neighbourhood with old villas and tons of entertainment. You see the remnants of the French colonial era. It is also the starting point for a pleasant ride from Xintiandi to the former residence of Sun Yat-sen.

Airline: China Eastern

Stopover in Beijing (China) 

What to do during a stopover in beijing.

• Built during the Mind Dynasty in the 15th century the Forbidden City was the seat of imperial power until 1911. It is truly a city within a city with its 800 palaces, shrines and pavilions. It takes (at least) a whole day to visit this site that used to be inaccessible to commoners for nearly 600 years!
• South of the Forbidden City you find Tiananmen Square , the largest square in the the world. Here you can visit the People’s Assembly Palace, the Chinese History Museum, the Museum of the Chinese Revolution and Mao’s Mausoleum.
• A few kilometers north-west of Beijing you will find the Summer Palace . The former refuge of the imperial family fleeing the heat of the city includes beautiful lakes, pavilions and gardens. Take a pleasant stroll through this 290 hectare park and enjoy the peace and tranquillity as the imperial family would have centuries ago. The park is so large that it requires 2000 employees to maintain the 420.000 trees and 3.000 buildings.

Airline: Air China

When to book your flight to Australia?

The ideal time to book a plane ticket to Australia can vary depending on several factors, including the time of year you wish to travel, the flexibility of your travel dates, the airline you choose, etc. However, it is generally advisable to book your plane ticket to Australia several months in advance (at least 3 months) to get the best fares.

If you are travelling during peak periods , such as the Australian school holidays or Christmas and New Year, try to book even earlier, around 4-6 months in advance, to avoid high prices and limited availability.

It is also important to note that airfares can vary considerably depending on the time of year. December to February months are generally more expensive due to Australia’s peak tourist and holiday season. On the other hand, the months of May to August are often cheaper, as they are considered the low season.

Read also : Cheap flights to Australia

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Australia is one of the most sought-after destinations in the world. With its diverse landscape, friendly people, and natural beauty it’s no wonder that many people want to visit this great country. It’s a country of extremes.

From scorching hot deserts to freezing snow-covered mountains, it’s hard to know what to pack for this destination. And if you’re flying there, then the flight will be just as unpredictable.

As the journey, there is rather a long one and many people wonder what airlines are best to get you there, and how long does it take to fly to Australia to begin with. When it comes to traveling , particularly for that long a distance, there is nothing more important than an airline.

Whether you’re flying domestically or internationally, the quality of your flight will make a huge difference in how much you enjoy your trip and will sometimes determine whether or not you want to go back.

If you are planning on taking a trip down under (way down under) then this blog post is for you. This blog post will cover the best airlines to fly to Australia and some top tips on how to make your flight smoother. Whether you’re looking for budget flights or luxury travel, we’ll cover it all in this article.

Best Airlines That Fly to Australia (at a glance)

• Qantas Airways ( check current Skyscanner deals) : Best All-Around Option with the most nonstop flights to Australia
• Emirates ( check nonstop routes ): Best Amenities with comfortable travel (many US flights from Washington, D.C.)
• United Airlines ( check Skyscanner deals ): Best Options From US West Coast (Los Angeles and San Francisco) 
• Virgin Atlantic ( check London options ): Best London Connection if nonstop isn’t an option (just get to London!)
• Singapore Airlines ( check direct booking options ): Best from SE Asia if traveling from outside of Europe or the US
• Etihad Airways ( check Eithad direct ) : Best from the Middle East, or Middle East layover halfway
• Cathay Pacific ( check options )

How Long is a Flight to Australia?

The duration of a flight to Australia is one of the things that puts a lot of people of visiting the beautiful country.

Most Australia flights take about 12 hours or more, so you’ll want to make sure that your itinerary includes at least two days between arriving and leaving. Couple that with the price of the flight, and it’s no wonder that Australia is considered an expensive destination.

On average, a flight to Australia from the US will take about 19 hours. Flights from Europe will take around 18 or 19 hours, and flights from Thailand, although slightly less, will still be about 11 hours.

This is just an estimate though – it could fluctuate by several hours depending on your departure city, the flight availability, how many layovers you have, and more. Some flights will take two full days or more from the time you depart to the time you actually set foot in the land down under.

How Much do Flights Cost to Fly to Australia?

We’ve already mentioned how flights to Australia can be pricey, but just how pricey are we talking?

Well, there are some budget airlines out there, but they’re often not direct flights. You’ll more than likely have to make at least one, two, or even more layovers on your way there.

This means that cheap tickets might actually be expensive in the end because you’re paying for all of those extra fees and layover hotels along the way.

A standard flight from the US to Australia is going to cost you an average of between $1200 to over $2000 for a return ticket. Flights from Europe are not much better at about €900 to €1500.

And these are just for economy class. Some in business class flights or first class are closer to a whopping $10,000 each.

For example, Emirates Airlines is known for its high-end service and other luxury amenities like sleeping berths in the sky suites, private showers, and 5* dining. If you’re looking for a very luxurious flight experience then this might be your airline of choice.

On the flip side, if you’re an adventure seeker and willing to go with a budget airline then you might be able to get your flights for as little as $500. But, trust us, they’re not likely to be very comfortable! And when you’re traveling that far, comfort should be one of your top priorities.

It all depends on what is important to you when booking a flight, but remember that price doesn’t always equal quality. It’s definitely worth it to do some research before making any big decisions so you can find the best flight to Australia for your trip.

What Should You Look for When Booking a Flight to Australia?

So, we’ve covered the price of flights and how much they can cost, but there’s more to consider than just that.

If you’re looking for a comfortable flight experience then we recommend choosing an airline with great amenities. For example, some airlines even offer flat bed pods where you can lie down completely if you wanted to sleep during your flight. Nice, right?

And don’t forget about the room to stretch your legs. Being cramped up in a tiny space for nearly 20 hours is bound to make anyone feel claustrophobic. Not only that, but it can give you DVT from reduced blood flow to your legs.

Make sure you have enough legroom by checking out the seat map before booking any flights. This will give you an idea of where the seats are located throughout the plane and how much room you’ll have.

These are some of the most important things you should consider before choosing an airline to fly to Australia:

On a flight that long, you’ll definitely want to have all of the legroom you can get. This is especially important if you’re tall or on the larger side. Check out SeatGuru for recommendations on which seats are most comfortable, and then check out seat maps before choosing your flights.

Entertainment Options

If you plan to spend a lot of time in the air, then you should consider paying extra for entertainment options. Spending hours upon hours stuck on a plane can be mind-numbing, so why not fly with an airline that can provide you with a mini-movie theatre?

Some airlines even have wireless headphones that allow passengers to choose from hundreds of TV shows and movies, while others offer touch screens built into the backs of seats that allow you to choose from a wide variety of shows.

Plus, some airlines even have wifi on their planes now. This can be super useful for those who want to catch up on work or stay connected with the world as they fly across time zones. Or, if the airline’s choice of movies isn’t up to your taste, you can bring your own computer and watch your own!

It’s not always cheap though so we recommend looking into this before paying extra for an airline that offers wifi.

Types of Airplane Models for Flights to Australia

Another thing to keep in mind is the plane model. Airlines like Singapore Airlines and Emirates Airlines have newer models with some of the latest amenities on their planes, while budget airlines are known for having older airplane models without any frills at all.

Common models seen on taxiways to Australia include:

• Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner ( commonly used by United Airlines, others )
• Boeing 777-200
• Airbus A350

Energy Efficiency

These days, green travel is so important and we all need to do our part to reduce our carbon footprint. And that includes when you fly, particularly long distances, like to Australia.

Some airlines use new Boeing 777-200 LR planes or Airbus’s A350 that are 20% more fuel-efficient than the previous model. So, it’s worth looking into what kind of plane your chosen airline uses.

Not only does an airplane burn through a lot of energy getting off the ground, but they also burn a lot of fuel when their engines are idling on the ground, so the number of layovers you have on your trip to Australia will affect your carbon footprint. Some models also have more energy-efficient engines, so it’s worth doing some research before choosing your airline.

Cleanliness

We know that most airlines pride themselves on being clean and hygienic, but some budget airlines tend to slip up a little bit when it comes to this.

Sometimes you might notice dirt or spills in the seat pocket of your plane seat, so if this is important for you then we recommend choosing an airline with better reviews about their cleanliness.

COVID Safety

Another thing to consider is safety, in the present climate, particularly when it comes to COVID-19. COVID safety is important to consider when flying long-haul, so you should check out some reviews before booking your next flight.

While all airlines are required by law to abide by the same standards, some definitely take it more seriously than others and Australia has been one of the strictest countries when it comes to COVID measures from day one. So, this is something you’ll definitely want to bear in mind.

Next, you should definitely check out some reviews before booking your next flight.

You can find these on Google or TripAdvisor and they’ll give you a better idea of what to expect from that airline in terms of food service, staff demeanor, legroom, customer service, and cleanliness levels.

Reviews are super helpful when it comes to narrowing down your choices, so if you’re looking for a budget airline then you should definitely check out the reviews that have been posted about them before booking.

You can also find user-submitted photographs on TripAdvisor and other review sites which will show you what kind of things you can expect on board different airlines.

In-Flight Service

Some airlines offer better in-flight service than others and this might be something you want to look into depending on your needs.

On a long flight to Australia, you will almost be guaranteed some sort of included refreshment, but if you’re looking for a more ‘premium’ experience, then higher-end airlines definitely have something to offer.

Some airlines have wifi on their planes now. This can be super useful for those who want to catch up on work or stay connected with the world as they fly across time zones. But whether or not it’s free or a paid extra will depend both on the airline, and the class of your ticket. But it’s worth mentioning that WIFI can be an expensive extra.

Baggage Options

We also recommend looking into the baggage options before booking your ticket.

Most airlines charge for checked luggage and some even have a much stricter cap on weight allowance than others do. So, you definitely want to make sure that you take this into consideration as it can depend on what kind of trip you’re taking or how long you’ll be gone for.

On most flights, you can take a carry-on bag with or without being charged for it. However, there are some airlines that do charge for this service so it’s definitely worth checking out before booking your ticket.

Ticket Prices to Australia

Of course, the price will be a very important factor in which airline you fly with to Australia. The price can vary a lot depending on where you’re coming from and how long you want to spend in transit.

While some budget airlines might be cheaper than others, it doesn’t necessarily mean that they are better valued for money as well so we recommend checking out all your options before committing to a ticket.

On the other hand, there are also some airlines that might cost more but offer better service and amenities as well so you should definitely look into these things too.

As of Summer 2023, a “good deal” is spending less than $2,000 on a ticket from the US to Australia. This is very anecdotal, so be sure to check below for the latest averages.

To get a good barometer on current ticket prices to Australia:

• Check Expedia here
• Check Skyscanner here

Cancellation Policy

Finally, you should look into the airline’s policies on cancellations as this can vary a lot depending on what company you’re flying with.

If you find that your plans have changed and there is no way for you to fly, then some airlines will be more understanding than others so it might be worth checking out their cancellation policy before committing to buying a ticket, particularly in the current climate.

The Top Airlines for Flying to Australia – Our Recommendations

Qantas: best overall option.

Qantas Airlines is one of the best airlines for flying to Australia and it’s also one of our top recommendations.

This is an airline based in Sydney, so if you’re looking for a good connection when arriving at your destination then we definitely recommend Qantas Airlines as they fly internationally from all over the world.

Qantas Airlines also happens to have the most nonstop flights from the United States, including (as of this update):

• Los Angeles (LAX) TO Brisbane (BNE)
• Los Angeles (LAX) TO Melbourne (MEL)
• Los Angeles (LAX) TO Sydney (SYD)
• San Francisco (SFO) TO Sydney (SYD)
• Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) TO Sydney (SYD)
• Honolulu (HNL) TO Sydney (SYD)

They also offer a Vancouver (YVR) – Sydney (SYD) for those located in the Pacific Northwest.

The Dallas-Forth Worth flight is notable as it’s one of the few direct flights available from interior US and can be easier than dealing with the chaos of LAX.

Qantas offers great service and amenities onboard and additionally, they also offer free wifi to all of their passengers.

Their baggage allowance is generous as well, as they allow 30kg in economy class, 40kg in business and premium economy, and a huge 50kg in first class. They also allow 7kg carry-on baggage in the economy class and 10kg in higher classes.

For those who want some extra legroom during their flight down under, Qantas has different options available depending on how much money you’d like to spend. Their first-class ticket comes with a lie-flat bed, restaurant-style dining, and an armchair suite.

The higher the price, as usual with these kinds of airlines, the more amenities and legroom you get so it might be worth looking into this before committing to a flight.

How to Book Qantas:  You can try booking direct here , but I like to get some baseline price expectations from Expedia here and then hunt for deals on Skyscanner here ( if you are flexible on exact travel days ). 

Emirates Airlines: Best Amenities 

Another one of the best airlines for flying to Australia is Emirates Airlines .

Emirates Airlines are based in Dubai, so if you’re traveling from there then this might be a great option.

They fly internationally across Europe and Asia as well, however, most flights that they offer will take passengers through their hub in Dubai before heading out to other destinations further down under like Perth or Sydney. However, this isn’t necessarily a downside as you can easily extend your layover and spend a few days lounging on the beautiful beaches of Dubai underneath the Burj Khalifa.

While you may have stopovers, the Emirates flights themselves are high end experiences even for the their “basic economy” options.

This airline has all kinds of options available when it comes to booking your flight with them but we recommend looking into these depending on what kind of trip you’re taking since prices can vary quite significantly between different routes and times etc.

While some airlines charge for checked luggage, Emirates also allows a generous 30kg baggage allowance in their economy saver class without charging any extra fees. Similarly again, their first class will also allow 50kg of checked baggage. For hand luggage, you’re allowed a 7kg limit in economy, and a 10kg limit in first.

However, if you do want to upgrade to first class, Emirates has a bit of a reputation for being, well, incredible!

They have fully lie-flat beds, individual temperature controls for each seat, and personal minibars.

Their first-class seats are also around twice as wide as an economy so if you’re the kind of person who likes to lounge about in your bed when traveling then this might be a great option since it’s not possible when flying economy.

They also offer lots of freebies (such as pajamas and a pillow), an exclusive dining experience, and a private onboard shower! Not bad for a flight to Australia!

United Airlines: Best West Coast US Options

United doesn’t have the amenities of an Emirates or the flight options of a Qantas, but it does offer some different US based (West Coast) options to choose from. 

While some of the options have shifted post-COVID, United Generally as at least 2 daily options from either SFO (San Francisco) or Los Angeles (LAX) to either Sydney or Melbourne . 

As with most US based airlines, don’t expect an amazing flight experience. United is middle of the pack and certainly fewer amenities and perks than almost any of the other Airlines on my list. 

Because of the flight options and US based connections, United tends to shake out as a more affordable option, however.

If you are a United Mileage member and based in the United States it’s going to be hard NOT to at least check the fares to rack up huge miles to Australia. 

Further Reading on United:

• United vs Delta Compared
• United vs Lufthansa Compared
• United vs Jetblue Compared
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Virgin Atlantic Airlines: Best London Connection

Another one of the best airlines for flying to Australia is Virgin Atlantic Airlines .

This is another airline that offers great connections to Australia ( also may show up as Virgin Australia ), usually flying, and connecting, from London’s Gatwick Airport.

This airline has a pretty good reputation for being one of the best airlines to fly with due to their friendly staff and overall comfort while onboard.

They have lots of options available when it comes to checking in your luggage so definitely look into this before you book any flights since prices can vary quite significantly depending on what route you’re taking. However, they do allow a slightly smaller 23kg checked baggage allowance for economy class tickets. this rises to 32kg for their upper-class fares.

They also offer free wifi during your flight down under so if you’ve got some work or just want to catch up on something then this might be worth looking into booking onto beforehand.

As for their first-class cabins, you can expect the largest seats available on any Virgin planes, private lounges , complimentary chauffeur services to and from the airport, priority boarding, and 5* dining in the sky.

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Singapore Airlines

Originating in, you guessed it, Singapore, Singapore Airlines is another great option for flying to Australia .

This airline has really top-notch service and most of their flight routes are very modern, comfortable planes however they aren’t the cheapest airlines out there so if you’re on a budget then it might be worth looking elsewhere first.

However, this airline does have some pretty unique features that make them stand out from other options available when traveling to Australia. They fly direct flights all the way down under with two different types of plane depending on what route you take which makes your journey much more efficient.

Even their economy class seats as designed to give you more legroom, recline and are especially comfortable for long flights. They also feature modern entertainment systems, and some of the best food you can eat on a plane.

If it’s first-class you’re after, then Singapore Airlines is another airline that has some truly unique features to their upper-class cabins. They have individual suites with sliding doors, minibars, fine dining, private entertainment systems, comfortable armchairs, and your own bed.

For couples traveling, you can even choose a double suite Singapore Airline ticket, which has a double bed! Then, once you’re suitably relaxed, you can freshen up before you land with your own private vanity counter.

If you’re after an even more luxurious experience then Singapore Airlines does not disappoint!

Etihad Airlines

Another middle-eastern gem, Etihad Airlines is one of the best airlines to fly with if you’re looking for affordable flights to Australia .

They fly direct from their hub in Abu Dhabi and the prices of this airline are usually somewhere between Virgin and Singapore Airlines (if you’re flying economy). They have a slightly smaller baggage allowance of 20kg checked and 7kg hand luggage for economy class. This goes up to 12kg (across 2 bags) of hand luggage and 50kg of checked luggage for first class.

Their first-class cabins offer every single amenity that you could ever think of on a plane including an onboard lounge, private suites with your own bed, entertainment system, luxury shower rooms complete with televisions so you can catch up on some TV shows while being pampered.

Then if it’s not quite enough for you then they do have “The Residence” which is three times larger than any other cabin space available on aircraft around the world. This includes two bedrooms as well as living rooms, dining, bathrooms with showers, and even butler service.

This airline’s economy class cabins are pretty great too. You’ll get free wifi, individual entertainment systems per seat with over 400 movies and TV shows to choose from all in high definition, noise-canceling headphones for your comfort, reclinable seats that give you plenty of legroom, as well as a blanket and pillow if you want one.

If you’re flying with this airline, you’re likely going to have a connection in Abu Dhabi (once again, this isn’t necessarily a bad thing if you can turn it into an extended layover). Plus they have some really nice lounges at their Abu Dhabi hub where guests can relax before boarding their next flight.

Cathay Pacific

Last but by no means least, Cathay Pacific .

For many people, this airline is usually the best option to fly with if you are looking for a good price-to-quality ratio that isn’t going to cost too much money when traveling down under.

They have some really great services on offer including their economy class cabins which feature adjustable headrests in all seats so you can get comfortable and relax while watching one of the most extensive inflight entertainment systems available along with noise-canceling headphones, reclining chairs allowing plenty of legroom, individual air vents at each seat, blankets, and pillows if needed.

Each passenger also gets 7k hand luggage and 2 free pieces of checked luggage as well. The checked luggage has to weigh no more than 30kg.

If it’s first-class travel then they’ve got something for you too. You’ll get a very comfortable seat that reclines into a flat bed, individual entertainment systems per passenger with over 400 movies and TV shows to choose from all in high-definition screens plus noise-canceling headphones for your comfort.

Then once you’re suitably relaxed before landing they will offer you some pajamas so you can be more comfortable on the flight down under.

They will also allow you to check up to 50kg of luggage, and bring 15kg into your cabin with you.

Honorable Mentions & Special Situations

While the above airlines made the list for the best options for MOST travelers, there are a few cases to consider different airlines when flying to Australia.

• Hawaiian Airlines : Hawaiian offers direct, nonstop flights from Honolulu to Sydney , so if you are flying from Hawaii (or can get there), it’s a worthwhile special situation.
• Air Canada :  Air Canada has recently added some flight paths to Australia, worth considering if you are in Canada (or close enough). Their Vancouver (YVR) location is useful for those living in the Pacific Northwest (ideal for Seattle), or can get there cheaply (or on an easy hop). 
• Delta Airlines : Delta doesn’t have the most direct options, with just one direct flight from LAX to Sydney as of this writing, BUT for SkyMiles members they offer a fairly large selection of flights to key European hubs for conneqcting flights if flying from the East Coast. 
• Qatar Airways : Some decent options originating in the Middle East OR as an airline change layover stop coming from Europe or the United States.
• Air New Zealand : Due to it’s home base proximity to Australia, Air New Zealand can be a good option for smaller interior regional airports within Australia, or just as an alternate route path. New Zealand is also a phenomenal place to visit, so can be a great first or second leg to your trip, particularly if flying from the West Coast US.

What Criteria Did We Use to Make These Selections?

The criteria we used to select these airlines was based on the quality of service offered aboard, what is included for each type of flight ticket purchased, and any possible added upcharges.

First, we looked at legroom. As anyone who has spent time in an airplane knows, legroom can be very important.

Then we looked at the entertainment systems available on each flight and if it was worth the money you were paying for your ticket or not. This is because sometimes these screens are pretty small which makes watching a movie difficult without straining your eyesight, however other times they can be so big that it’s a little ridiculous.

Next, we looked at the quality of food and drinks available onboard as well as if there were free snacks or not, how much you would have to pay for them (if anything), and whether or not was actually any good or worth buying.

Then we checked out what extra services could be purchased on board such as in-flight wifi, whether there were any amenities for first-class passengers or not (such as pajamas and better food), and what you would have to pay extra if wanted them.

We looked at luggage allowances, whether or not you would have to pay extra for checked luggage, and what the weight allowance was.

We also considered how many pieces of baggage were included in your ticket price as well as whether they allowed carry-on bags if so, what their size limitations were on them (if any), and whether it cost extra money to bring a bigger bag on board.

Next, we thought about the types of cabins available on each flight. Were they suites, business class seats, or economy? How big was the space between your sqeat and the person next to you’s (legroom), did it recline into a bed or not, how many hours were included in your ticket price for entertainment systems, etc.

Finally, we looked at the airline itself. What sort of safety records did they have, what was their history like in terms of customer service and overall satisfaction? Were there any recent complaints or issues that would make us question whether it was worth flying with them or not? All these factors were considered when making our list!

Should You Travel Economy or Business Class to Australia?

There are plenty of arguments for upping your class for a flight to Australia.

Business-Class

First, let’s talk business class. For someone who is looking to get the most out of their flight experience without breaking the bank, this might be a good option for you.

With most airlines, you’ll get slightly more legroom with reclinable seats. This means you’ll get much more sleep on your long-haul flight from the U.S., Europe, or Asia to Australia.

You’ll also get a decent amount of luggage allowance with most airlines offering around 20-30kg for checked luggage depending on what airline you fly with. They will usually provide blankets and pillows as well along with some nice amenities if you fly business.

First-Class

So, what about first class? Well, this really is the tip of the iceberg if you’re after a luxury flight.

You can expect to find individual entertainment systems per passenger, noise-canceling headphones for your comfort, reclining chairs that allow plenty of legroom, and even flat beds on most airlines.

There are also usually more food options available in first-class than there is in business class as well as champagne or any other beverages you might like before takeoff. You’ll get a priority luggage allowance (around 50kg) too and some will even throw in a chauffeur service that allows you to save on airport transfers.

But, of course, what about the price? Well, it’s important to keep this topic in mind when looking at airline prices because sometimes they can be pretty hefty depending on which airline you fly with.

Economy, on the other hand, is easily the cheapest option. But it also comes with more limited luggage, less luxurious services, and considerably less legroom. Cramped conditions for a long-haul flight that’s quite this long are certainly going to be miserable.

But for many, a higher seat class is simply out of their price range. And you could argue that, yes, you will be cramped, but it’s only for one day – it’s doable, right?

That really depends on your tolerance levels, and your wallet!

Which Class is Best?

At the end of the day, you need to make sure that the price of flying with a particular airline is worth your money and will be able to provide you with what you’re looking for. If it isn’t, then don’t just go choosing any old cheap airline – think about which airlines offer good value-for-money when traveling down under.

It’s also important not just to look at prices but compare options too before committing. Using airline comparison sites like Skyscanner, KAYAK, or flight deal finders like Scott’s Cheap Flights can seriously help bring the costs down.

This is the advantage of the flying economy – you’ll still be able to reach this beautiful country as prices will be much lower. But you might need to spend 18 uncomfortable hours in order to get there.

So, ask yourself, how much does that flat bed really mean to you?

Top Tips for Flying to Australia

Once you’ve booked your flight it’s time to get ready for the trip.

First, you’ll need some essentials packed in your hand luggage like sunscreen and sunglasses as well as an extra pair of clothes just in case something happens during this long-haul flight.

All products are tested for strength, durability and performance based on the demands of frequent travelers. Orders of $150 or more qualify for free standard shipping , no code needed. Need it sooner? Choose expedited or priority.

You should also make sure that you have all documentation you might need before getting on any flights.

If you’re getting ready for that flight to Australia, here are some top tips to make it more bearable:

Check What You Can Bring Into the Country

You might not be allowed to bring some items like fruit or meat into the country even though they are essential for cooking when traveling in Australia. To save uncomfortable encounters at the airport, make sure you know what you’re allowed to bring in and what you’re not.

Pack light if possible, especially with hand luggage. This will help with making sure that everything gets there safely without missing any flights along the way and it’ll also help make getting through the airport a lot easier.

Plan Your Travel Arrangements to Australia Ahead of Time

This might seem like common sense, but it’s also important that you plan out your travel to Australia before the time comes. This means that you should know which airport is closest to where you will be staying and how you will get there, as well as what time the first flight of your trip will be.

Prepare for a Long Haul Flight

If you’re not a good flier, then it might be time to prepare for that long-haul flight. Make sure you get enough sleep the night before and eat some light meals beforehand – this will help make those 18 hours of flying more bearable. Plus, pack all your essentials in your hand luggage, including everything that you’ll need on those layovers.

Sort Out Your Tourist Visa in Advance

You might need to get your tourist visa sorted out in advance if you’re flying into Australia. You should always check with the embassy where you will be landing first, but this is something that can help speed up the process and save on any last-minute problems upon arrival.

Check the Entry Requirements Before You Book

Particularly when it comes to COVID-19 requirements (as Australia has been noticeably strict), it’s worth checking the entry requirements before you book your flights. That way, if you need to take any tests or quarantine at the border, you will already be aware.

Choose Your Airline Carefully

This might seem like an obvious tip, but it’s also important that you choose your airline carefully for this trip. Make sure to look at the baggage allowance policy and consider whether or not they have any wide-body aircraft before booking.

Book Well in Advance

Booking well in advance is one of the best ways to make sure that you get a good value for your flight. This way, airlines are more likely to offer discounts as they have yet to sell out their tickets, so it’s worth looking at flights up to 18 months before departure if you’re on a budget.

Upgrade to Premium or Business class – If You Can!

If you can afford to upgrade your ticket, then it might be worth looking at upgrading. Not only does this mean that there are more empty seats in the economy section for those who really need them or if they happen to get upgraded themselves, but also that airlines will have a better chance of making up their costs on these flights.

FAQs about Airlines that Fly to Austrlia

Answer: Many airlines fly to Australia, but some are more popular than others. The best airlines that fly to Australia include Virgin Atlantic, Cathay Pacific Airways, Singapore Airlines, and Qantas Airlines, Emirates Airlines, and Etihad Airlines.

Answer: The best way to fly depends on a number of factors. Some people prefer flying direct, while others would rather have more stops longer layovers. However, we believe the best way to fly to Australia is with one layover to break up the flight but to turn that layover into a couple of days in a city such as Dubai, or Singapore.

Answer: Qantas is considered the best airline in Australia, but there are a number of airlines that have been known to provide excellent service.

Answer: The cheapest month to fly varies depending on the airline and destination. But, in general, the low season is the cheapest time to fly down under. This includes May, June, July, and some of, September.

Answer: A flight to Australia typically costs between $1000 and $2000 USD for economy class flights. Business or first-class flights are considerably more.

Answer: Flying to Australia will typically cost you at least 18 hours or more in the air, so it’s important to think about when you would like to arrive. You’ll likely lose a day or so in the air to get to the country. However, some flights are as long as 50 hours +, which means you’ll lose a good few days in transit to the country.

Let’s Fly to Australia!

Overall, flying to Australia isn’t necessarily the cheapest option, but if you’re looking for a great holiday destination that’s full of beautiful landscapes and wonderful people, then it’s one of the best places in the world.

We know that when you’re looking for a flight to Australia, it can be difficult. We hope this article has helped you with your search and you now know what to look for and some of the best airlines to fly to Australia. Happy travels!

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Cheap flights from Europe to Australia from $638

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How many operators does momondo search for flights from Europe to Australia?

As of May 2024, there are 28 operators available to choose from for flights from Europe to Australia.

How old do you have to be to fly from Europe to Australia?

Although the minimum age for a child to fly alone is five, airlines that offer an unaccompanied minor (UMNR) service may have their own age limits, which could be impacted by factors such as flight length, timing, and stopovers. It is recommended that you verify with the airline you are booking with for travel from Europe to Australia.

What documentation or ID do you need to fly to Australia?

The required travel and health documents for your Australia trip may vary depending on your itinerary and personal circumstances. As a general rule, you should carry multiple documents, including a national ID card or driver's licence and a passport valid for six months after your intended arrival at Australia. We recommend that you seek guidance from your airline or a reliable third party such as IATA.

Best airlines flying from Europe to Australia

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It is quick and easy to find Europe to Australia flights on momondo. We search and return numerous flight options from various airlines and agents. You can then use our filters to narrow your search until you have found the most convenient flight to Australia that suits you.

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8 Tips for Flying to Australia

Whether you're going for a holiday of a lifetime, or visiting friends and family, planning your Australia trip isn't quite as simple as booking a European holiday.

2.8min read

Published 29 August 2019

There’s a lot more to consider and prepare for in order to ensure you trip goes smoothly and that you get the best value for money. As Australian Experts, our people know exactly how to secure the right flights to Australia for your needs and budget. To help you plan, we’ve listed our best tips below.

Book your Australia flights in advance

Choose your airline carefully, consider upgrading to premium economy or business class, make the most of your stopover.

• Pre-arrange your visa
• Prepare for the long-haul flight

Be careful what you bring into the country

• Don't pick up your car as soon as you arrive

While it is possible to find fantastic flash sales to Australia, if you have certain dates and airlines in mind, it’s worth booking as soon as possible. Leave it too late and you might end up having to pay almost double the price of when the flights were first available, especially if you’re looking to fly during popular times like December.

When browsing for flights to Australia, the cheapest prices aren’t always the best options. Considering you are going to be flying for almost 24 hours, with a stopover in between, the in-flight experience is important and one that’s worth spending a little bit more money on to ensure you are comfortable . Plentiful entertainment, spacious seats, a delicious in-flight menu and limited stopovers will make all the difference when seated on a flight for a 12-hour leg. See our  airline guide  for our best airlines to fly to Australia from the UK or anywhere else.

You can make your flight to Australia even more comfortable by upgrading to a premium cabin. On most airlines,  Business Class flights to Australia  will include flat-beds, so you can truly stretch out and get a good night’s sleep. On your stopover you’ll also have access to a lounge which, depending on the airline, may have shower facilities. Premium Economy cabins are also another more affordable option which will include more space than Economy cabins. Upgrading your flight is an ideal way to ensure you enjoy the best journey possible.

Unless you opt for  Qantas’ direct flight to Perth , all other flights to Australia will include at least one stopover  so your flight path to Australia will be key . Depending on which airline you fly with, the most popular  Australia stopover flights  include Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Singapore and Hong Kong. But there are also many other stopover options including Thailand, Vietnam, South Africa or Los Angeles. Whichever one you choose, you may want to consider adding a few nights stay on the way to or from Australia (or both!), allowing you to break up the trip and see another destination.

Don’t underestimate the size of Australia – it's a big country! If you’re planning a road trip, do your research on how long the drive is going to take, and where to find the best pit stops – there are hidden gems everywhere.

Pre-arrange your Australian Tourist Visa

Even if you’re just visiting a city in Australia for a shorter holiday, you will need to prearrange a visa for your visit. You can do this electronically (referred to as an ETA) via the Australian Government website, or your Travel Consultant can arrange this for you after you have booked your flights.

Prepare for your long-haul flight

When visiting Australia, being comfortable on the flight means being prepared. Don’t leave packing for Australia until the night before. Instead, pre-plan what you’ll need for your holiday and what you’ll need for the flight. In your carry-on luggage we recommend having the following items:

• Neck pillow
• Comfortable and warm layers to get changed into (the air conditioning can get cold on planes)
• Shoes that are easy to slip on
• Toothbrush and toothpaste (under 100ml)
• Snacks and chewing gum
• Noise-cancelling headphones
• A credit card or relevant currency to use during your stopover

For more tips and advice on flying, see our guide on  how to survive a long-haul flight .

Australia has very strict rules when it comes to what you can and can’t bring into the country. Any fruit or vegetables you may have taken on to the plane to snack on during your flight will not be permitted in the country, so be sure to eat or dispose of any of these things before you enter border control. Even packaged foods will still need to be declared at customs (random checks and sniffer dogs are common), so if you would like to skip customs and get out of the airport as quickly as possible, we recommend you don’t bring any food or natural materials into the country. See the  Australian Government website  for what you can and can’t bring into Australia.

Don’t pick your car up as soon as you arrive

No matter how comfortable you were or how much sleep you had on the flight, when you arrive in Australia you're still bound to feel a little tired and groggy. Picking up a car and driving for a few hours will be the last thing you feel like doing. So, instead, have your Travel Consultant pre-arrange your transfers and at least one night’s accommodation nearby, this way you can rest easy and get used to your surroundings without having to stress about public transport and finding your hotel. 

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You can fly every day to the east-coast cities from Europe, North America and Southeast Asia. Fares depend on the season, the highest being the two weeks either side of Christmas. Fares drop during the “shoulder” seasons – late February to May and mid-August to November – and you’ll get the best prices during low season, June to mid-August. Because of the distance from most popular departure points, flying on weekends does not alter the price.

Flights from the UK and Ireland

Rtw tickets, flights from the us and canada, rtw or circle pacific tickets, flights from new zealand and south africa, getting there from southeast asia, agents and tour operators, agents and operators, travel ideas for australia, created by local experts.

12 days  / from 2900 USD

Explore Western Australia from Perth to Broome

Western Australia is the country's largest state, covering more than a third of Australia. This self drive itinerary allows you to explore sunny Perth, stunning national parks and waterfalls, the remote wild west outback, empty beaches and much more.

16 days  / from 3300 USD

Explore South Australia and the Northern Territory

Explore South Australia and the Northern Territory on this self-drive adventure. Start in Adelaide and make your way over the Ayers Rock, Kings Canyon, and Alice Springs to the Kakadu National Park and ultimately Darwin.

23 days  / from 4150 USD

Cross Western Australia to Darwin

Western Australia offers wonderfully remote outback experiences: from spectacular national parks to sandy deserts, pristine beaches to working cattle stations. This itinerary allows you to explore the way from Perth to Darwin in depth and at your own pace, in your own rental car.

The easiest way to find a flight is on flight websites that collate airline and agent prices. Specialist flight agents can also help, and may offer special student and youth fares as well as organize travel insurance, rail passes, car rental and tours. If Australia is a stop on a longer journey, consider a Round-the-World (RTW) ticket. Australia is a fixture in RTW tickets offered by most agents.

The journey to Sydney and other eastern cities from London takes a minimum of 21 hours including stops to refuel. Sydney and Melbourne are served by the greatest number of airlines, the former usually being slightly cheaper, though carriers like Qantas (qantas.com) charge similar prices to fly to any eastern city between Cairns and Adelaide; flights to Darwin and Perth are a little cheaper.

Notwithstanding the stop to refuel, often in Dubai (the new base for Qantas), Singapore or Kuala Lumpur, direct flights depart from London’s Heathrow and Gatwick airports, although you can check luggage through if you fly with the same operator from regional UK airports to connect with international flights.

Except for New Zealanders, all tourists (including those on one-year working visas) are required to arrive with a return ticket. The cheapest costs around £700 during the low season (June to mid-August). The most expensive time to fly is around Christmas, when there are few tickets under £1000 return: book at least six months in advance to secure a cheap flight. Prices also blip upwards from mid-July to mid-August, coinciding with the European holiday period. The shoulder seasons of mid-August to November and mid-January to March can provide cheaper deals if you’re flexible.

An alternative to the long direct flight is a multi-stopover ticket , typically in Asia though often in the US or Middle East, which can cost the same or just a little more than the price of an ordinary return and breaks up the journey.

There are no direct flights to Australia from Ireland , so most routings involve a change in a European air hub – London, Paris or Frankfurt – to transfer to a long-haul airline. Return fares in low season are usually around the €800–900 mark, €1500 in high season.

Round-the-World (RTW) tickets will incorporate Australia within a package of global flights. The permutations are tantalizing: typically stopovers allow overland travel in Asia, the Pacific and North America, but you can pretty much devise your fantasy itinerary (say, to South America and the Pacific) and get it priced. A good agent such as STA Travel will piece together sector fares from various airlines; as an idea of prices, a simple London–Bangkok–Sydney–LA–London deal will come in at £750 minimum, while more complicated routings will be over £1400.

From Los Angeles it’s possible to fly nonstop to Sydney in fourteen hours. Qantas, United (united.com) and Air Canada (aircanada.com) operate direct to the east coast of Australia. National Asian airlines usually stop in their capital city (Singapore, Tokyo, Hong Kong etc) – their fares on the Pacific route from the west coast of North America to the east coast of Australia are generally higher than their American and Australian competitors.

Many of the major airlines offer stopover deals in Pacific Rim destinations such as Tokyo, Honolulu or Kuala Lumpur or at South Pacific locations such as Fiji. Either there will be a flat surcharge on your ticket or they may offer you a higher-priced ticket allowing you to make as many stops as you like, within certain parameters, over a fixed period of time.

As an idea of prices, standard scheduled return fares for low/high seasons are circa US$1600/2000. The price of an open-jaw ticket (flying into one city and returning from another) will be the average of the return fares to the two cities. If you plan to fly around Australia, a Qantas AirPass can pay dividends, though not necessarily due to price slashing by budget domestic flights – do the sums first.

If you don’t mind setting an itinerary in advance, the best deal will most likely be a Round-the-World (RTW) ticket that has stopoffs in Australia and New Zealand from North America, typically via Southeast Asia or Europe but also South America. As ever, prices vary hugely, depending on the agent. A sample RTW itinerary of Los Angeles–London–Dubai–Bangkok–Sydney–Auckland–Los Angeles costs around US$1600. Circle Pacific tickets are similar but restricted to the Pacific region, including North America and Asia. Check the websites of agents such as STA Travel for deals.

New Zealand –Australia routes are busy and competition is fierce, resulting in an ever-changing range of deals; your best bet is to check the latest prices with flight websites that pool all airlines’ prices or consult a specialist travel agent. Budget airlines have slashed fares, with the likes of Virgin Australia (virginaustralia.com) offering daily deals. Ultimately, the price will depend on how much flexibility you want; many of the cheapest deals are hedged with restrictions – typically, a maximum stay of thirty days and a fourteen-day advance-purchase requirement. Air New Zealand ( airnz.co.nz ) and Virgin Australia fly from Auckland, Christchurch, Queenstown and Wellington. Flight times from Auckland to Sydney are three and a half hours.

Flying from South Africa , the journey time is around fourteen hours, travelling from Johannesburg to Sydney or around ten to Perth. The main carriers are Qantas and South African Airways (flysaa.com); expect to pay around ZAR20,000 return in peak season to Sydney.

This is a time-honoured route to Australia for European backpackers thanks to its opportunities for travel adventures at budget-friendly prices. Travelling overland through Southeast Asia shouldn’t make too much of a difference to the price of your plane ticket, since many Asian airlines stop in their regional hub en route to Australia – Thai Airways in Bangkok ( www.thaiairways.com ), Singapore Airlines in Singapore (singaporeair.com), Malaysia Airways in Kuala Lumpur (malaysiaairlines.com), even Air China in Beijing ( airchina.com.cn ). If you want to continue overland between, say, Bangkok and Bali, from where it’s a short flight to Darwin in Australia’s Northern Territory, consider a Round-the-World ticket with an overland component. Be aware, too, that if you buy a one-way ticket from Bali, you will still need a return ticket out of Australia to get through immigration.

If time is short and you’re reasonably sure of your plans, prebook some accommodation and tours; see the following directory for a list of operators and Australian tour specialists.

AAT Kings UK 020 8225 4220, Australia 1300 228 546, NZ 0800 500 146; aatkings.com . Long-established Australian coach-tour operator to destinations nationwide.

Abercrombie and Kent US 1800 554 7016, abercrombiekent.com. The high-end agent excels in tailored tours and interesting experiences themed by family fun, adventure, highlights or icons. Also has a couple of fixed-itinerary tours.

Explore UK 0845 013 1537, Republic of Ireland 01677 9479; explore.co.uk. Interesting Aussie adventures such as a two-week tour by tall ship as well as a Highlights of Australia tour.

North South Travel UK 01245 608 291, northsouthtravel.co.uk . Small, competitive agency with discounted fares. Profits support projects in the developing world, especially the promotion of sustainable tourism.

STA Travel UK 0871 230 0040, US 1800 781 4040, Australia 134 782, NZ 0800 474 400, South Africa 0861 781 781; statravel.co.uk . Worldwide specialists in independent travel; also student IDs, travel insurance, car rental, rail passes and more. Good discounts for students and under-26s.

Swain Australia Tours US 1800 227 9246, swainaustralia.com . Large range of customizable tours that cover all the major destinations and most regions, plus wine- or wildlife-themed itineraries.

Tasmanian Odyssey UK 01534 735 449, tasmanianodyssey.com . Well-chosen accommodation and tour experiences curated by Britain’s only specialist Tassie agency.

Trailfinders UK 0845 054 6060, Ireland 01677 7888, Australia 1300 780 212; trailfinders.com. One of the best-informed and most efficient agents for independent travellers.

Travel CUTS Canada 1800 667 2887, US 1800 592 2887; travelcuts.com. Canadian youth and student travel firm.

USIT Ireland t 01602 1906, Northern Ireland 028 9032 7111; usit.ie . Ireland’s main student and youth travel specialists also specializes in working holidays.

World Expeditions UK 020 8545 9030, US & Canada 1800 567 2216, Australia 1300 720 000, NZ 09 368 4161; worldexpeditions.co.uk . Australian-owned adventure company; small-group active wilderness holidays; cycling, canoeing, rafting, 4WD excursions, walking and camping.

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These Are The Best Airlines To Fly Economy Between Europe & Australia

Everyone has their limits as to how much physical discomfort they will endure to save money. This list will help you find yours.

So you’re off to the land of cheese and wine? Or maybe you’re going on a gastronomy tour of England’s warmest beer? You could even be heading to siesta-land for some well-earned tapas. Whatever it is: you want to book your trip wisely so that you have as much money possible to spend on the various museum, beach or pub-based debauchery you have planned. All without sacrificing too much legroom, of course.

Is it possible? Well, everyone has their own limits as to how much physical discomfort they are willing to endure in order to save money. That’s why we compiled this list of airlines, explaining their pros and cons, and are leaving the judgement of which is right for you… well… up to you. So: these are the best economy experiences between Europe and Australia, using Sydney and London as reference points.

14 hour flight from Sydney to Dubai, followed by a layover, and a 7 hour flight from Dubai to London.

Legroom (Seat Pitch)

32-34 inches.

Food and Drink

Global flavours, fresh ingredients, complimentary drinks, tends to be above average.

From $1,300 return.

Airbus A380.

TripAdvisor Rating

3522 passengers  rated their experience on this trip excellent, 1718 rated it very good, 836 rated it average, 425 called it poor, and 577 called it terrible.

Not the most budget friendly option out there, but you get one of the best entertainment systems, above average legroom and the layovers tend to be quicker (and the route much more direct) than the sketchy, “cheap as chips” options you find on Skyscanner at 1am.

Qatar Airways

15 hour flight from Sydney to Doha, layover, 7 hour flight from Doha to London.

31-33 inches (depending on which model aircraft you book).

Like Emirates, Qatar’s meals and desserts are prepared with a focus on quality and freshness. Yes, it’s still airplane food, but they do try to inject a bit of flavour—and there’s a wide selection of beverages.

From $1,200.

Airbus A380 800.

98 people rated this trip excellent, 41 rated it very good, 21 called it average, 11 called it poor and 17 called it terrible.

Their cabin crew has been voted “best in the middle east” for seven consecutive years, and their prices tend to slightly  undercut Emirates, so you could do worse than to book with Qatar.

Your first option is: 8 hours from Sydney to Singapore, a layover, then 14 hours from Singapore to London. Your second option is: a four hour domestic flight from Sydney to Perth, then a 17 hour mammoth (direct) flight from Perth to London.

At Qantas a welcome drink is offered after take-off, as well as continuous snacks and refreshments throughout the flight. You can pre-select your meal online before takeoff, or leave your fate in the hands of the Qantas chefs.

From $1,350.

For Sydney to Singapore routes you’ll be on an Airbus A330-300, and for the longer flight from Singapore to London, the larger Airbus A380. For the other route (via Perth) an Airbus Industrie A330-200 takes care of the domestic Sydney to Perth leg, while a Boeing 787 is used for the international Perth to London leg.

Tripadvisor Reviews

For international flights via Singapore, Tripadvisor users rated the experience as following: 316 excellent, 305 very good, 207 average, 131 poor and 110 terrible. For international flights via Perth Tripadvisor users rated the experience as follows: 151 excellent, 117 very good, 63 average, 65 poor and 62 terrible.

With the introduction (a few years ago now) of Middle Eastern airlines like Emirates, who often provide superior (or equally good) service for a cheaper price, Qantas has declined of late as traveller’s first choice for travelling to Europe. That said, it’s still a quality airline that just needs to give its price/value offering a bit of a tweak to keep up with the competition.

15-14 hours from Sydney to Abu Dhabi, a (hopefully) short layover, then a 7-8 hour flight to London.

31-33 inches, depending on which Aircraft you’re on.

If you have any special dietary needs, request your meal 24 hours in advance. Otherwise sit back and enjoy the stock standard fare, which isn’t too bad (for economy).

Either a Boeing 747 or an Airbus A380, depending on the route.

Tripadvisor ratings for this route are as follows; 618: excellent, 534: very good, 363: average, 218: poor, 330: terrible.

Similar price range and level of service to Qatar. Punch in your dates and see which of the two have a better deal.

Cathay Pacific

9-10 hours from Sydney to Hong Kong, layover, then 12 hours from Hong Kong to London.

Standard economy fare, with an asian twist. Check out their sample menus here .

Either a Boeing 777-300ER or an Airbus Industrie A330-300.

Tripadvisor reviews of Cathay Pacific’s Sydney-London route via Hong Kong were as follows: 560 called it excellent, 588 said it was very good, 295 reckoned it was average, 122 called it poor and 121 said it was terrible.

A great option to consider if the 14 hour slog from Sydney to Dubai fills you with dread. But remember – there’s no cute 7 hour journey to top the trip off if you go via Hong Kong—it’s another 10 hours.

British Airways

Sydney to Singapore: 8 hours. Layover: depends. Singapore to London: 14 hours.

Naturally, your British Airways experience includes complimentary drinks and a sumptuous assortment of fine foods designed by world-renowned chefs.

From $1,400.

Airbus A380, then a Boeing 777.

46 passengers called it excellent, 80 called it very good, 65 called it average, 41 said it was poor and 36 said their experience was terrible.

Because British Airways are known for their premium service, they often receive bad reviews because people’s expectations are so high, and because cheaper airlines have been slowly catching up in terms of service. Combine that with the changes they made to their Boeing 777’s, to fit more people, in order to keep up with the high density competition, and you might think the mighty BA has experienced a fall from grace. Rest assured though, they are still a damn good airline—you just might need a stiff G&T to cope with the price tag.

Best Airlines En Route To Europe Economy Class FAQ

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RELATED: Jaw Dropping First Class Flights To Europe From Australia 

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Find cheap flights to Europe from $563

This is the cheapest one-way flight price found by a kayak user in the last 72 hours by searching for a flight from australia to europe departing on 10/6. fares are subject to change and may not be available on all flights or dates of travel. click the price to replicate the search for this deal., search hundreds of travel sites at once for deals on flights to europe.

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Good to know

Faqs - booking europe flights, which visa do i need to enter europe.

Australians travelling to countries in the Schengen area do not need to obtain a visa if they are staying for less than 90 days within a 180-day period. The Schengen area comprises 26 European countries and allows travellers to move between member countries without having to apply for separate visas. Australians must carry a passport that is valid for at least three months after the planned departure date.

Which airport should I fly into for Southern Europe?

Leonardo da Vinci Fiumicino Airport (FCO) in Rome, Italy, is the main airport serving the southern part of Europe. The airport is a hub for ITA Airways and offers connections to several domestic and international destinations from here. You can also fly into Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN) in Spain, Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) in Portugal or Athens International Airport (ATH) in Greece, depending on your final destination city.

What is the recommended way to find cheap flights to Europe?

Get great deals on your flights to Europe by booking your airfare in advance. Some airlines release tickets up to a year in advance, and you can take advantage of early-bird specials. If your travel dates are flexible, try searching different dates for cheaper flights. If you’re travelling from Sydney to Paris, flights with two layovers are usually cheaper than flights that only stop once.

Which airport should I fly into in Berlin?

One major international airport, Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER), serves Berlin. Therefore, when visiting this city, the likely destination airport is Berlin Airport. The airport is near Berlin's city centre and offers various transport options, making it ideal.

Where can I stop along the way if I'm travelling from Australia to Europe?

Depending on where you’re travelling, you will have at least one stop along the way from Australia to Europe. Emirates and Qantas Airways offer flights from Melbourne to Rome with a layover in Dubai. If you have booked a flight from Sydney to Helsinki, you can find flights that layover in Singapore or Doha.

Which airport in Paris should I fly to from Australia?

When flying to Paris from Australia, consider flying to Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG), the main international gateway in Paris. The airport has various transport options to the city centre and the rest of Paris, including buses, trains and taxis. You can also fly into Paris Beauvais Airport (BVA), serving smaller airlines, including Wizz Air and Ryanair.

Where should I travel if I want to see the Northern Lights?

If you would like to see the Northern Lights, book a flight to Finland or Iceland between October and March. You will find plenty of flights from Melbourne to Copenhagen or Reykjavik on Qatar Airways, Icelandair and Scandinavian Airlines. The popular months for Australian travellers to visit Scandinavia are June, July and August.  

Which airport should I fly into when visiting Prague?

When flying to Prague, the departure airports in Australia will be Sydney Airport (SYD) and Melbourne Airport (MEL). You will land at Vaclav Havel Airport Prague (PRG), the leading international airport in Prague, offering direct and connecting international flights.

How long is the flight to Europe?

An average direct flight from Australia to Europe takes 25h 00m, covering a distance of 25710 km. The most popular route is Melbourne - London with an average flight time of 23h 15m.

What is the cheapest flight to Europe?

The cheapest ticket to Europe from Australia found in the last 72 hours was $869 one-way, and $1,048 round-trip. The most popular route is Melbourne to London Heathrow and the cheapest round-trip airline ticket found on this route in the last 72 hours was $1,251.

Which airlines fly to Europe?

Qantas Airways flies the most frequently from Australia to Europe.

What are the most popular destinations in Europe?

Based on KAYAK flight searches, the most popular destination is London (60% of total searches to Europe). The next most popular destinations are Istanbul (12%) and Paris (8%). Searches for flights to Rome (5%), to Milan (4%) and to Athens (4%) are also popular.

How does KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a given destination and date is likely to change within 7 days, so travellers know whether to wait or book now.

Top tips for finding cheap flights to Europe

• Enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search form above to unlock the latest Europe flight deals.
• If you prefer to travel directly, you can find a few long-haul flights from Australia to Europe. Qantas Airways operates Dreamliner flights from Melbourne and Sydney to London, and you can also book seasonal flights from Perth.
• If you are flying to Europe for the Irish Emigration Museum, consider flying to Dublin Airport (DUB). You can have stopovers in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. The airport has buses and Dublin Area Rapid Transit trains providing ground transportation to the museum.
• If you are travelling to Europe from Melbourne or Sydney and hoping to visit a few different cities, Amsterdam is a great base due to its central location. Schiphol Airport (AMS) offers regular flights to other European capitals and also has plenty of connections by train.
• London is one of the most visited cities in Europe. When flying to London, the ideal destination airport is London Heathrow Airport (LHR). The airport handles most direct and connecting flights from Australia. You can also opt for London Gatwick Airport (LGW).
• Many Australians consider a backpacking trip through Europe a rite of passage. To save money on flights, you should consider flying into one city and flying out from another. For example, travellers departing from Perth can book a flight to London. From there, you can travel to Paris, Berlin, Prague and Athens before flying back to Australia from Rome.
• If you have always wanted to see the rolling countryside of Tuscany, ride the canals of Venice or eat pizza in Naples, you can fly to Rome Fiumicino (FCO) from most Australian capitals. Emirates, Etihad Airways and Qatar Airways operate regular flights. Once you arrive in Rome, you can take a train to your destination.
• Christmas is a charming time to see Europe – Prague, Vienna, Cologne and Basel are some of the most popular destinations. If you want to save on airfares, fly out of Australia during the first week of December and book your return flight between Christmas and New Year’s Day.

Top 5 airlines flying to Europe

My experience with Scoot is very good. Will have no issue flying with Scoot again.

My overall experience with Singapore Airlines is great. Will definitely fly Singapore airline again.

Good flight. The food was served a bit late, hence a hurry to finish before landing. Excellent crew and service

Awesome as always. I wish though the cabin for premium was upgraded.... Same old sane old :(

I requested an aisle seat and got a middle seat The flight gate was changed and the flight was delayed

They made me check my carry on even though there was room We un boarded in a strange way but overall it was good

Seating cramped; close to toilet, foul smelling and noisy, very unhygienic and disease risk Free and paid Wi-Fi NOT accessible at all - misleading advertising Very expensive sunglasses disappeared from back seat pouch. Coffee disgusting and cold

When boarding, after business class should be premium economy, but economy class already lined-up at the gate blocking premium economy to board. Singapore airline crew should done a better job to organize this chaos :( Thank you.

Wonderful service, planes and interior in great condition, very pleasant experience

A pc of cake or biscuit at least. The airport was like a maze need to take another bus to the main terminal to immigration.

we bought trip insurance from you and could not use it. 'underrated' only return 50 % of trip cost. my doctor told me i have stage 4 cancer and that I might not live till the end of the month..

Emirates is always great experience, however, they should reopen their lounge in Istanbul. The IGA lounge is not worth it

I liked everything accept the delay try to improve in that area

Same problem with very poor food. Gluten free options can taste great, there is not reason to be give suboptimal meals in this situation.

Didn’t like it at all. Cabin crew unfriendly. Very bad experience.

Flight from Dubai to Zagreb very bad cabin crew. Bad food

Absolutely terrible delays for 3 hours changed seats after we paid an upgrade on both legs. It appears it’s up to us to request a refund after they down graded our seat. Never again !!

Good but needs to improve cleanliness Coffee serve cold Needs to raise standard serving food Otherwise good

Seat and leg space is much better than the Qatar airline. The crew I would like to say is not meeting the requirements of emirates airlines cause it almost 20 years I am flying with emirates this time I really feel that crew is not behaving well someone asked for water waited more than 30 minutes and there are more incidents in this flight.

Superb experience. I hope they bring back the fast track option at Heathrow immigration.

It was good no problems made it on time for the next flight overseas!

they give hard time at checking, they not allow computer bag or purse

I found it weird that the quality of the flight different from Australia to Doha than the Doha to Berlin leg. The quality of the toiletries pack (was in a box from Australia) and then a proper bag from Doha. The biggest variation was the inflight entertainment, which had a significantly shorter amount of content compared to the Doha flight. My QSuite seat was also broken and did not recline all the way flat. Wasn’t the best and I wouldn’t be happy if I’d paid cash for the flight.

They shld provide food. Between food they are giving 10 hours gap which is toooo much

From home to the airport, you must mention the terminal ready.

Food and entertainment was very very bad. Also, Doha airport is very bad. Entertainment was same for last 1 month....no change. Old movies. Food quality was sub par.

Asian Veng meal have Non Veg items which is not ok. Pure veg meals option are too less and they have inclusion of Vedgan and Lactos etc... which is taste less

Overall good but staff in the place looked extremely tired after 8hrs in 14 hrs journey and then service was cut short and response time for calls increased in later part of flight. Food was ok not astonishing

Very very bad.. more than 48 hr I didn’t received my baggage yet

The 2nd flight from Doha to Mumbai was not of international level expected while booking with Qatar

The international flight from Sydney to Dallas had great food. I have travelled a lot over the years and this has been the most memorable in my experience so far.

Initial flight was cancelled so moved to an alternative flight. As a result, stuck in a middle seat. Flight then place in holding pattern prior to landing resulting in a very late trip home.

There was nothing I didn’t like, prices a little lower would help

BA Airbus A380 BC upstairs had 2 3 2 layout. The seat was comfy but access for those in middle or window seats had to climb over others fest to get to ailse when seats in bed mode. The layout was not nearly as private as other layouts. The staff was amazing as well as the food. Most airline food is average but this was restaurant quality.

Following a marathon flight riddled by delays and changes from Santiago, Chile, my flight to Melbourne from Sydney was on schedule but I was transferred to the next flight. The reason by ticketing and the floor manager was I missed the entry to flight by one minute! That's right, the emphasised that if I was 1 minute earlier I would be on the flight. I asked what was the point them emphasising 1minute overdue and how that helped me or the situation. They didn't care at all. Replying that if it was one minute earlier they would've done something and smirking delivering the information. Australian's do call Australia home, Qantas calls Australian's suckers.

1) crackly headphone jack 2) one of the emergency seats recline. Usually second row does. But in this case neither did 3) food was scrambled eggs or fruit. 4) fruit should not be the option to eggs 5)miserable unpleasant crew not a smile. Thought that was a virgin thing

Qantas are unable to service and unfit for purpose, they cannot transport Australians on time to overseas destinations. On top of the inflated ticketing, the Sydney flight to Santiago was impacted because the plane was delayed arriving and then further bungling by Qantas admitting the ground new ground crew in charge of cleaning were not trained. The impact on passengers with connecting flights was tremendous and long ques of frustrated passengers waiting for rescheduling. **Qantas has become the Australian Spirit of disappointment**

The staff we fantastic and seemed to work very well with each other

Business lounge in Melbourne mediocre. Look at Emirates or Qatar, Qantas! Great friendly crew. Food was good but Emirates is a level above. Business seat good. But can’t compare to Qatar. Main reason for booking Qantas is loyalty and terrific connection via Perth to LHR.

I was pleasantly surprised with my flight to LA with Qantas. Although seats were not the roomies, service was excellent.

Good airline for the price. The Air stewardess are great, nothing is to much trouble. Will use again.

Cheapest option from Gatwick £400 cheaper than Emirates and Qatar. Entertainment no where near as good as Emirates and Qatar, but saved £400 so all good.

Great staff and food. Seats pretty uncomfortable but plenty of legroom. Entertainment system outdated.

Gatwick London-Shanghai -Bangkok.. Would have liked entertainment screens, but I know these planes are not that new. Cheap flights at the time of booking, Emirates wanted double so you get what you paid for. I would fly again with them, but if Emirates was the same price I would go with them.

How do you run out of beer after one hour of a twelve hour flight?!

Flight was fine, however we were not able to check in online, this adds to travel stress. Luckily check-in at Heathrow was quick, but we did not get the seats we paid extra for. We paid for a window and 2 aisle seats from Shanghai to Tokyo leg, but they changed us to middle seats. Not good :(

Couldn’t fly since they wouldn’t issue a boarding ticket. Something to do with not taking the departing flight since it was cancelled due to weather. No notice or anything about the trip being invalid. The app made it seem like I was all good for it. Never trusting travel agency

2 hours delay on the 1st plane out of the day!!!!!

I will never fly through China again. Maybe it was the mandatory retinal scan just to transfer to another flight or the complete set of fingerprints they require. There are many better and inexpensive flights to Asia if you look.

A lot of value considering the cheap ticket prices. All meals served were Chinese food. Would fly them again considering the ticket was half the price of any others

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There Are So Many Ways To Fly To Europe, Here's All Of Them

3.58min read

Published 15 October 2018

Flight Centre Business Travel

With more than 50 ways to fly to Europe , it’s easier than ever to travel to the other side of the world.

The Qantas Australia-London air route via the eastern hemisphere was once so popular it was nicknamed the ‘Kangaroo Route’ with heaps of Aussie travellers boomeranging between Australia and the UK via Asia and the Middle East. The launch of the Qantas direct flight from Perth to London, clocking in at around 17 hours, is a real game changer. This non-stop service really challenges the capabilities of what new aircraft such as the 787 Dreamliner can offer travellers.

Now, there’s more than 50 ways to fly to the UK and Europe. Whether you’re travelling for business a few times a year or that big annual trip; in business class, premium economy or economy; here’s all the ways you can fly to Europe with some surprising stopovers and top tips from our Travel Experts to save on your Euro trip.

Top tips for flying to Europe

• It’s cheaper to fly to Paris or Rome than London if you can. Paris Charles de Gaulle is also a great way to avoid the congestion of London Heathrow.
• Look for great airfare deals to Europe, such as Scoot fares to Athens or Berlin.
• Check out the seasonality before you book. February is the cheapest time to travel to the UK and Europe, while the summer months (June to September) and December to January is high season and airfares will be more expensive due to higher demand.
• If you’re flexible with dates and itinerary, March, May and October are other great months to nab a good deal on an airfare to Europe.
• Budget doesn’t stretch to business class? Consider a mixed-class airfare where you can fly one leg in economy and another in business class on the same fare to save on the price of a full airfare in business.
• Plan ahead! For earlybird airfares to Europe for the summer months, look at booking your ticket in September or October the prior year to take advantage of the best deals in market.
• Ask your consultant about open-jaw airfares, where you can fly into one city and out of another. You can also opt for different stopover destinations on the way over and back.
• Sometimes a stopover or two on the way to the UK and Europe can work out to be cheaper than the cost of a direct flight. Ask your consultant about the best value options for flights to Europe.

There’s so many routes to Europe via Asia, you can easily schedule a stopover in one or more cities, depending on which airline you travel with. Stop in East Asia with Air China, All Nippon Airways, Cathay Pacific, China Airlines, China Southern Airlines, Japan Airlines or Korean Airlines. Or visit Southeast Asia with British Airways, Garuda Indonesia, Malaysia Airlines, Philippine Airlines, Qantas, Royal Brunei Airlines, Scoot, Singapore Airlines, SriLankan Airlines, Thai Airways or Vietnam Airlines.

• Air China with a stop in Beijing
• All Nippon Airways with a stop in Tokyo
• British Airways with a stop in Singapore
• Cathay Pacific with a stop in Hong Kong
• China Airlines with a stop in Taipei
• China Southern Airlines with a stop in Guangzhou
• Garuda Indonesia with a stop in Bali or Jakarta
• Japan Airlines with a stop in Tokyo
• Korean Airlines with a stop in Seoul
• Malaysia Airlines with a stop in Kuala Lumpur
• Philippine Airlines with a stop in Manila
• Qantas with a stop in Singapore
• Royal Brunei Airlines with a stop in Bandar Seri Begawan
• Scoot with a stop in Singapore
• Singapore Airlines with a stop in Singapore
• SriLankan Airlines with a stop in Colombo
• Thai Airways with a stop in Bangkok
• Vietnam Airlines with a stop in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City

It is also possible to travel to Europe via Africa, offering up some amazing stopover opportunities in South Africa and Mauritius.

• Air Mauritius with a stop in Mauritius
• South African Airways with a stop in Johannesburg

Via the Middle East

Destinations in the Middle East are becoming increasingly popular as stopover options on the way to Europe. With a wide network of onward destinations, a variety of cabin classes, and some of the most comfortable economy seats in the sky, it’s no wonder flying via the Middle East is an easy option for Australian travellers. It’s also one of the quickest routes from Australia to Europe in terms of total travel time.

• Emirates with a stop in Dubai
• Etihad Airways with a stop in Abu Dhabi
• Qatar Airways with a stop in Doha

Via the Americas

Aussies can also fly to Europe via the Americas on a variety of different carriers and selection of stopover cities. The flying time is often longer than routes through Asia or the Middle East, but travel via the Americas does open up some interesting stopover options en route to Europe.

• Air Canada via Vancouver, and some selected destinations in Canada
• Air New Zealand via Auckland and Los Angeles
• American Airlines via Los Angeles, and some selected destinations in the USA 
• Delta Air Lines via Los Angeles, and some selected destinations in the USA
• LATAM Airlines Group via Santiago, and some selected destinations in South America
• United Airlines via Los Angeles, San Francisco or Houston, and some selected destinations in the USA 

Airline networks and partners

While many European-based airlines don’t service Australia directly, arrangements with partner carriers allow Aussie passengers to fly into Europe via many cities across the globe. Itineraries with Air France, Austrian Airlines, Finnair, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Lufthansa, Swiss International Airlines, Turkish Airlines and Virgin Atlantic (as well as British Airways, which also flies into Sydney via Singapore) opens up a world of choice on how and where you can fly into Europe.

Australia-based carriers Qantas and Virgin Australia can also offer routing around the world, thanks to their extensive networks and airline partnerships. With Qantas, you can choose to fly to Europe via Asia, Africa and the Americas.

• Via Asia: Air France, Austrian Airlines, British Airways, Emirates, Finnair, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Lufthansa, Qantas, Swiss International Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Virgin Atlantic and Virgin Australia
• Via Africa: Lufthansa, Qantas, Swiss International Airlines and Turkish Airlines
• Via the Middle East: Air France, Emirates, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Qantas and Virgin Australia
• Via North America: Air France, Austrian Airlines, Finnair, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Lufthansa, Qantas, Swiss International Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Virgin Atlantic and Virgin Australia
• Via South America: Finnair, Lufthansa, Qantas and Swiss International Airlines

Check out our flight deals to Europe here, or talk to a Flight Centre Business Travel consultant today .

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Six alternative stopovers from Australia to Europe

LOOK beyond Singapore and Bangkok — here are six alternative stopover cities on the way to Europe.

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IT IS the time of year when travellers in the middle of an antipodean summer start dreaming of extending the sunshine with a summer holiday in Europe, and the search for airfares begins.

It’s long made sense to slice the long haul in half and recuperate along the way, but a stopover is also a great money-saver. Often, it doesn’t cost any more to get off the aircraft for a day or two, apart from hotel and sightseeing expenses. Some airlines offer discounted hotel rooms as encouragement and a stopover lets travellers experience new destinations for a fraction of the cost of a separate trip.

You can book stopover flights via websites with multi-sector search engines, but this is one of those times when a travel agent can really ease the passage. A good agent can find the best deals on more complex itineraries and help with hotels and tours, too.

The journey between Australia and Europe usually gets broken in Singapore, Hong Kong, Bangkok and Dubai, but there are some 20 other stopovers to consider. Here are six cracking breaks you might not have considered.

Arrive in London or Paris after a super-chilled spell on Mauritius. This gorgeous Indian Ocean island has stellar beaches, stylish hotels and hospitable residents. Away from the beach, tour an old plantation house, trek through jungle or go diving. It’s affordable, too, with good hotels in all price categories.

GETTING THERE

Air Mauritius flies from Perth to Mauritius and on to London and Paris. The airline will provide a free night’s hotel accommodation with transfers and meals in each direction.

Ph 1800 247 628, see airmauritius.com

Allow a day for Beijing’s Forbidden City alone, and two more for other sights. The legations quarter and the Dong’ammen Night Market are fun, and a day trip to the Great Wall is a must. Stroll the Temple of Heavenly Peace and visit Tiananmen Square for Mao’s Mausoleum and the Museum of the Revolution. Around the corner is Quanjude Roast Duck restaurant, which opened in 1864 and serves 6000 ducks a day.

Air China flies from Sydney and Melbourne via Beijing to London and 10 other European cities.

Stand at the Canada Place building — a ship-shaped leftover from the 1986 expo — and discover why Vancouver is so likable and livable. Just five minutes away are the cobbled streets of Gastown, Chinatown’s noisy markets and peaceful Dr Sun Yat-sen Garden. The False Creek Ferry floats to an atmospheric jumble of shops and bars at Granville Island, and don’t miss the Museum of Anthropology’s unrivalled collection of First Nation art. With more time, venture to Victoria Island, take the train into the Canadian Rockies or cruise along the spectacular Inside Passage.

Air Canada flies from Sydney via Vancouver to London.

Ph 1300 655 767 or see aircanada.com/au/en

The Korean capital is a brilliantly baffling city every bit as exhilarating as Tokyo. There are ancient sites such as the exquisite Gyeongbok Palace and Changdeok Palace complexes and the intimate alleyways of Bukchon in between. Lunch while sitting on a floor cushion at a traditional restaurant in Insadong, then change gears on a cable-car ride to Namsam Park and climb to Seoul Tower for views over the metropolis. The fiery Korean staple of kimchi is omnipotent at Dongdaemum market’s maze of stalls.

Korean Air flies from Sydney and Brisbane via Seoul to London and 10 other European cities.

Ph (02) 9262 6000, or see www.koreanair.com

JOHANNESBURG

Jo’Berg is smartening up by the day, so take advantage of the falling rand and shop in swanky Sandton boutiques, or dine with the hipsters in Parkhurst. The Wits Art Museum has the best collection in Africa. Go the extra distance and it’s possible to see the “big five” before you alight in Europe; the vast Kruger National Park is a 45-minute flight away in Nelspruit, or a four-hour drive. The game spotting is glorious, even from your own vehicle.

South African Airways flies from Perth via Jo’Berg to London, Frankfurt, Munich or Zurich.

Ph 1300 435 972 or see flysaa.com/au/en

India’s capital delivers grandeur and chaos in almost equal measure. Minimise culture shock in New Delhi on the Janpath ceremonial road and visit the peaceful Gandhi Simitri, a lovely museum dedicated to Gandhi in the building in which he was assassinated. Ten minutes’ walk away is Claridges Hotel, which serves a splendid afternoon tea. Then stroll the Lodi Gardens where large marble tombs are precursors to the Taj Mahal. Day two and you’re ready to plunge into Old Delhi’s frenetic traffic, bazaars and curry shacks.

Air India flies from Melbourne and Sydney via Delhi to London and nine other European cities.

Ph 1800 247 463, or see airindia.in

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7 cities to consider for your stopover en route to Europe

There’s no doubt that the flight from Australia to Europe at around 22 hours is a long one. Not surprisingly, many travellers prefer to break the journey with a stopover en route and Singapore and Dubai (to name just a couple) have long been favourite stopover destinations.  However there are lots of other exciting destinations to consider for your stopover en route to or from Europe.

Apologies to my North American readers but this post is written with my Australian and New Zealand readers in mind as we are the poor souls that live so far away from Europe! 

Apart from the new Perth to London flights that Qantas which started operating in March 2018, all flights between Australia/New Zealand and Europe are a minimum of two legs and at least 20 hours flying time, hence the desire of some travellers to stopover en route.  

[ This post may contain compensated links. Please see my  disclosure policy  for more information. ]

What's in this Article

What is a stopover?

The term stopover in this article refers to spending at least one night in the stopover city in which you change flights.  It does not refer to a ‘layover’ of a few hours in the airport terminal whilst waiting for a connecting flight.

Many travellers see the advantages of a stopover as two-fold.  Firstly, it gives them a chance to break up the long journey to or from Europe (particularly welcome when you are travelling in economy class), and secondly, they can spend some time in another city that they might not otherwise visit.

For avid travellers, this article on  how many countries are there in the world?  is well worth a read.

In many instances a return fare from Australia to Europe allows one stopover in each direction for no additional cost to the ticket price, however accommodation and transport costs are usually at the passenger’s expense.  You should carefully check the fare rules of the flights you are booking before purchasing your ticket so you know what additional costs, if any, you are liable for.

Further reading: How to get the best seat on the plane without paying a fortune

Traditionally the most popular stopover cities for Australians and New Zealanders heading to Europe and the United Kingdom have been Singapore and Hong Kong, with Dubai and Abu Dhabi increasing in popularity in the past ten or so years.

These cities are just the tip of the iceberg, though, and there are plenty of other destinations worth considering for a stopover.

Have you considered these cities for your stopover en route to or from Europe?

Middle East Stopovers

Flight time from Australia’s east coast capitals to Middle Eastern stopover cities is around 14 hours, with a further 6 to 8 hours flying time on to Europe/UK.

Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Doha are popular Middle East stopover cities, but why not visit:

Muscat, capital of the Sultanate of Oman

Serviced by Oman Air

Destinations in Europe served by direct flights from Muscat:  Zurich, Paris, Frankfurt, Munich, Milan, London and Manchester. (As Oman Air don’t fly into Australia, they partner with Malaysia Airlines. Passengers fly from Australia to Kuala Lumpur on Malaysia Airlines, then change to Oman Air for the flights from KL to Muscat and Muscat onto Europe. In instances like this, a stopover is usually permitted in either the Asian or Middle Eastern destination.)

Main attractions in Muscat include: the Sultan’s Palace, Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, National Museum and Muscat Gate Museum, Mutrah Souq.  Popular day tours from Muscat include trips to the Forts of Nizwa and Oman’s Grand Canyon.

Here are some of the best things to do in Muscat and some recommended day trips from Muscat .

Tourist visa required for Australians?  Yes.  You can obtain your visa on arrival at the airport or apply online before your trip for convenience.  Tourist visa is NOT required by New Zealand passport holders.

My friend Sky, a travel consultant with Tewantin Travel in Queensland, visited Oman on a familiarisation trip a couple of years ago and fell in love with the country.  She recommends the following stopover itinerary:

• 1 night Muscat –  Visit souk, Grand Mosque, many other sights
• 1 night Arabian Oryx Camp – Bedouin camp en route, Dune bashing, traditional dancing and musicians at the camp, and amazing local food. OR visitJabel Sands instead

Sky recommends staying at the Shangri La, about 15 minutes from the centre of Muscat.  The hotel is part of a three-resort complex and features its own private beach, 22 restaurants, 1 large pool, 3 kids pools and a splash park and much more.  Check latest prices for the Shangri La hotel Muscat here .

For more info about Oman and what to see and do on your stopover, connect with Sky on her Facebook page Take a Gander Travel .

Asian Stopovers

Generally speaking, the flight time between Australia’s east coast capitals and Asia is around 8 to 10 hours.  From Asia to the UK/Europe, it’s then another 12 to 14 hours in the air.

Instead of the common Asian stopover destinations of Singapore, Hong Kong, Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur, consider:

Tokyo (Japan)

Serviced by Japan Airlines

Destinations in Europe served by direct flights from Tokyo: London, Frankfurt, Moscow, Paris, Helsinki

Main attractions in Tokyo include: The Imperial Palace, Ginza District for shopping, the Sensō-ji Temple , Tokyo Skytree and Ueno Park.

Is a Tourist visa required by Australians and New Zealanders?   No.

Find things to do in Tokyo and elsewhere in Japan in this article >>

Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam)

Serviced by Vietnam Airlines

Destinations in Europe served by direct flights from Ho Chi Minh City: London, Frankfurt, Paris, Moscow

Main attractions in Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) include: Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theatre,  Thiên Hậu Temple, Ben Thanh Market.  Day trips from Ho Chi Minh City to the Mekong Delta are also popular.  

Tourist visa required? Yes for both Australians and New Zealand passport holders.  Check the visa requirements of Vietnam for all nationalities here .

Guangzhou (China)

Serviced by China Southern Airlines and Air France

Destinations in Europe served by direct flights from Guangzhou: Paris (connecting flights to another destination in Europe are often included in the ticket price)

Main attractions in Guangzhou (formerly Canton) include: Canton Tower, Shamian Island, Chimelong Safari Park and Zoo, Pearl River cruise.

Tourist visa required by Australians and New Zealanders?  In some instances – see the info below (current as at 1 March, 2018).

Beijing allows visitors to obtain a 72-hour transit visa upon arrival if the visitors are coming into, staying in, and leaving from Beijing (you are not permitted to leave Beijing). You’ll have to apply for the visa-free transit stay at Beijing Capital International Airport, and the following conditions apply:

• You must hold a passport from Australia or New Zealand (or one of 49 other countries)
• You must hold valid international travel documents 
• You must have proof that you qualify to enter the city you are ultimately travelling to (Europe)
• You must have valid airline tickets with 72-hour validation 
• You must be leaving from Beijing Capital International Airport to Europe

You can also obtain 72 hour visas from other Chinese cities including Shanghai, Guangzhou or Chengdu with similar rules: You must fly into that city, stay in that city, and leave from that city (you are not permitted to travel between cities) and meet the above requirements.

Click here for Chinese visa info for all nationalities.

Bandar Seri Begawan (Brunei)

Serviced by Royal Brunei Airlines

Destinations in Europe: London (Note: Flights from Bandar Seri Begawan to London travel via Dubai.)

Many fares offered by Royal Brunei allow a stopover in Dubai either as well as or instead of a stopover in Bandar Seri Begawan.

Some of the main attractions in Bandar Seri Begawan include: Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, Tamu Kianggeh open-air market and Tamu Selera Night Market , the stilt villages at Kampong Ayer

Tourist visa required by Australians? Yes, but can be obtained on arrival. Application forms will be available on all incoming flights to Brunei.  Cost BND20.

Tourist visa required by New Zealanders? No (maximum stay 30 days).

Tip: All Royal Brunei flights are alcohol-free so no alcohol will be served or sold onboard.  Non-Muslims can, however, take alcohol purchased duty free onboard but it must be consumed during the flight and cannot be taken off the plane.

Further reading: How to have the perfect Brunei stopover  

Seoul (South Korea)

Serviced by Korean Air

Destinations in Europe served by direct flights from Seoul: London, Paris, Amsterdam, Barcelona, Frankfurt, Istanbul, Madrid, Milan, Prague, Rome, Vienna, Zurich.

Main attractions in Seoul include: Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace, City Walls, the War Memorial of Korea.

Tourist visa required by Australians and New Zealanders? No.

Tip: Spend a night in Seoul on Korean Air

Korean Air only fly out of two cities in Australia – Brisbane and Sydney – and the connections often mean that an overnight stay is required in Seoul.

The airline’s policy is to provide free accommodation, transfers and breakfast when the passenger is required to stay overnight in Seoul involuntarily*.  They must join the first connecting flight with Korean Air the following day to qualify for the free accommodation offer.

Important: * Involuntary – Passenger(s) taking involuntary next day connection where no scheduled flight exists from/to Sydney, Brisbane.

At the time of writing, passegers flying from Sydney to London could qualify for the ‘involuntary’ free night as the Korean Air flight from Sydney departs at 9.00am and arrives into Seoul at 5.50pm.  The next available Korean Air flight to London, departs Seoul at 1.00pm the following day, arriving in London at 4.30pm. 

If you’d like to spend more than the 19 hours that the next-day connection allows for your stopover in Seoul, you’d be wise to stay an additional night and pay for your accommodation out of your own pocket.  Check with your travel agent or Korean Air for full terms and conditions.

Delhi (India)

Serviced by Air India

Destinations in Europe served by direct flights from Delhi: Frankfurt, London, Madrid, Milan, Moscow, Paris, Rome and Vienna

Main attractions in Delhi include: Swaminarayan Akshard, Humayun’s Tomb, National Gandhi Museum.  Day and two-day trips to the Taj Mahal at Agra are also possible from Delhi.  Click here for more info and prices.

Tourist visa required by Australians and New Zealanders? Yes.  Click here for Indian visa information for all nationalities.

USA Stopovers

This actually takes my list of stopover cities to eight (or more), but if you can’t decide between visiting the United States or Europe, perhaps a round the world fare is for you.  The major airline alliances, OneWorld and Star Alliance, offer round the world fares that allow passengers to travel between Australia and Europe via the US in one direction and via Asia in the other direction.

Generally speaking, these fares allow multiple stopovers in both the US and Asia however they are more expensive than a regular return flight to Europe via Asia or the Middle East.

Every round the world ticket has different rules and offers different stopover cities, according to which airlines are in the alliance.  Popular US stopover cities in a round the world ticket include Los Angeles, San Francisco and New York.

If you’d like to include a stopover in the US or Canada en route to Europe, I recommend you contact your travel agent who can advise you of the most suitable options.

Tourist visa required by Australians and New Zealanders? Yes .   Find out more and apply online here .

Before you choose your stopover city

Having a stopover en route to Europe might sound like the ideal way to break up the long flight, but before you book your flights, ask yourself the following questions….

• Do you need a visa to stopover in your chosen city? If so, is the cost of the visa worth it for a short stay?
• What will the weather be like where you stopover?  If you hate heat and humidity, stopping in some cities at certain times of the year might not be ideal for you.
• What is the purpose of your stopover?  If it is just to break the journey, a one night stopover is probably adequate but if you’d like to involve some sightseeing, you might need to stay at least a couple of nights. Is this time you would rather be spending in Europe?

All information is correct at the time of publication but is subject to change without warning.

Carolyn's love affair with Europe started on her first visit over 30 years ago and it continues, just as strong, today. She visits Europe annually and enjoys writing about her discoveries and sharing her tips with fellow travellers.

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Travelling to Europe from Australia: A Comprehensive Guide

Travelling to Europe from Australia can be an exciting experience, with the opportunity to explore new cultures, visit historic landmarks, and indulge in delicious cuisine. However, it can also be a daunting task, as there are many factors to consider, such as flights, visas, accommodation, and transportation. In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know to make your European adventure a success.

One of the first things to consider when planning a trip to Europe from Australia is the flight. There are several airlines that offer direct flights from Australia to Europe, including Qantas, Emirates, and Singapore Airlines. However, you can also find indirect flights that can be cheaper but take longer. It's important to compare prices and flight times to find the best option for you.

When booking your flight, consider the time of year you plan to travel. Peak travel season in Europe is during the summer months, from June to August, and flights can be more expensive and crowded during this time. If you are flexible with your travel dates, consider travelling in the shoulder season, from April to May or September to October, when prices are generally lower and crowds are smaller. We also highly recommend pre organising a Europe SIM card for when you land. 

Australian citizens do not need a visa to travel to most European countries for tourism purposes for up to 90 days. However, it's important to check the visa requirements for the countries you plan to visit, as some may have different rules and regulations. For example, if you plan to stay in Europe for more than 90 days or work while you're there, you may need to apply for a visa. It's also important to make sure your passport is valid for at least six months after your planned departure date.

Transportation

Once you arrive in Europe, you'll need to decide how you want to get around. Public transportation is generally very good in Europe, so you can easily travel between cities by train or bus. If you're planning to visit multiple countries, you might want to consider purchasing a Eurail pass, which allows you to travel on trains in most European countries. The pass is available in a variety of options, including consecutive days, flexible days, and one-way tickets. It's important to research the options and prices to find the best option for you.

If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car in Europe, but it's important to note that driving rules and regulations may differ from those in Australia. You will need an International Driving Permit, which you can obtain from your local automobile club, and you may need to pay additional fees for insurance and tolls.

Accommodation

When it comes to accommodation, there are plenty of options to choose from. Hotels, hostels, and Airbnb rentals are all popular choices. It's important to research your options and book in advance, especially during peak travel season. Some cities, such as Paris and Rome, have a wide range of accommodation options, but they can be more expensive. Other cities, such as Berlin and Budapest, have a variety of affordable options.

If you're travelling on a budget, consider staying in a hostel or Airbnb rental. Hostels are a great option for solo travellers or those looking to meet other travellers, while Airbnb rentals can provide a more authentic and local experience.

Top Destinations

Europe is home to some of the world's most iconic landmarks, museums, and cities. Paris, Rome, and London are all must-see cities, but there are also many other hidden gems to explore. Barcelona, Berlin, and Amsterdam are just a few examples of cities with vibrant cultures and fascinating history.

Paris is known for its iconic landmarks, such as the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame Cathedral, as well as its museums, such as the Louvre and Musée d'Orsay. Rome, on the other hand, is known for its ancient history, with the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Pantheon all must-see landmarks. London is home to Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, and the British Museum, and is a great destination for those interested in history and culture.

Barcelona is known for its unique architecture, with landmarks such as the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell designed by the renowned architect Antoni Gaudi. Berlin is a city with a rich and complex history, from the remnants of the Berlin Wall to the vibrant art scene in the city's east. Amsterdam is a beautiful city with a network of canals and iconic landmarks such as the Anne Frank House and the Rijksmuseum.

Food and Drink

One of the highlights of any trip to Europe is the opportunity to indulge in delicious cuisine and drinks. Each country has its own unique dishes and specialties. France is known for its pastries, cheese, and wine, while Italy is known for its pasta, pizza, and gelato. Germany is famous for its sausages and beer, while Spain is known for its tapas and sangria.

It's important to try local cuisine and visit local markets and restaurants to experience the authentic flavors of each country. However, it's also important to be aware of any dietary restrictions or allergies and to communicate these to restaurant staff.

Safety and Security

While Europe is generally a safe destination for travellers, it's important to take precautions to ensure your safety and security. Keep your valuables, such as your passport and money, in a secure location, and be aware of your surroundings when walking in unfamiliar areas.

It's also important to be aware of scams and pickpocketing. Some common scams include people asking for money or offering to help with your luggage, so it's important to be cautious and avoid giving money or personal information to strangers.

Health and Medical Care

Before travelling to Europe, it's important to ensure you have adequate health insurance coverage. The Australian government recommends taking out comprehensive travel insurance, as medical treatment can be expensive in Europe. It's also a good idea to research the healthcare system in the countries you plan to visit and to carry any necessary medication or medical supplies with you.

It's important to be aware of any health risks, such as food or water-borne illnesses or insect-borne diseases. It's recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before travelling to ensure you have the necessary vaccinations and medications. Travelling to Europe from Australia can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it's important to plan ahead and be prepared for the journey. From flights and visas to accommodation and transportation, there are many factors to consider. However, with careful planning and research, you can make the most of your European adventure and create memories that will last a lifetime.

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Europe Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 18, 2024

From beautiful Paris to smoke-filled coffeeshops in Amsterdam, Oktoberfest to La Tomatina, Europe is a massive, diverse continent with an unlimited assortment of things to see and do. You won’t have any problem filling your time, whether you’re backpacking Europe for a few months on a budget or just spending a few weeks there on a well-earned vacation.

The continent boasts wonderful beaches, historical architecture, amazing wine, and tons of world-class festivals. Every country is incredibly different from the next too, providing limitless variety in what you do during your trip.

I first backpacked Europe in 2006 and was hooked immediately. I’ve been visiting every year since, have run tours around the continent, and even wrote a book on traveling in Europe . It’s a destination I love and never get tired of exploring.

This guide will give you an overview of Europe and the tips and tricks you need to start planning your trip. I’ve also written extensive travel guides to each country on the continent (linked below in this post) so you can get more in-depth information for your specific itinerary too!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Europe

Click Here for Country Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in europe.

1. Tour the Greek Islands

These islands are the mecca of summer beach fun and each is unique in its own great way. There’s Ios (beach party central with archeological ruins and awesome boat tours); Kos (ancient ruins and nature); Crete (Bronze Age ruins of Knossos, hiking, beaches, and wine), Santorini (iconic blue water, white buildings, and local wineries); Mykonos , (the upscale party island with beautiful beaches, villages, and sunsets), Naxos (best island in the Cyclades). Plus, Milos, Corfu, Lemnos, Zakynthos, and so many more! With hundreds of islands in the country, you can always find what you are looking for!

2. Ride the rails

Europe is famous for its international rail system. Rail passes like the Eurail Pass have been around forever and still make it very easy to get from country to country on a relatively small budget (and with lots of flexibility). Europe has some of the fastest trains in the world that travel up to an incredible 217 mph (350 kph). The whole continent is connected by trains and there’s a growing push for even more connections and long-distance, high-speed trains in order to reduce flying and help combat climate change. There’s nothing more quintessential than riding the trains in Europe and I encourage you to take as many trains as possible. It’s one of the best ways to see the continent.

3. Get lost in Paris

The “City of Lights” is everything people say it is. I fell in love with it the first time I stepped foot in Paris . The city is just magical. You have a ton of museums, cafes, jazz clubs, famous art, and beautiful architecture. I love just strolling around the streets of the Quartier Latin (Latin Quarter) or Montmartre neighborhood as it makes for a breathtaking day. Another one of my favorite things to do here is just sit in the Jardin des Champs-Élysées park and picnic like the Parisians. For something a bit different, check out the famous Catacombs and Paris Sewer Museum. With so much to offer in the way of culture, history, and gastronomy, it would take years to see everything here but you can still get a good feel of the city in a few days.

4. Go city hopping

There are so many amazing cities in Europe that we’d need a top 100 to list them all. Here are some of my personal favorites and must-see cities: London is rich in history, culture, and the famous Big Ben clock; Edinburgh is a vibrant medieval city with cozy pubs and a famous castle with a huge New Year’s Eve Party; Amsterdam has cozy coffee shops and canopied tree-covered canals; Berlin has a wild party scene, street art, and the Berlin Wall; Barcelona has tapas, beach, and unique Gaudi architecture; coastal Lisbon has colorful tiles, old tramcars, cobblestone streets and plenty of fresh seafood; Prague has a beautiful intact Old Town, incredible architecture and eclectic bars; Tallinn Estonia has beautiful medieval buildings with colorful roofs. Florence  is a mecca for Italian Renaissance architecture, art history, and gelato; Stockholm mixes medieval architecture and modern art and design. Crisscross the continent, take in the culture, and enjoy all the historic cities!

5. Hit the Alps

Whether you go skiing in the winter or hiking in the summer, the Alps hold some of the most breathtaking views in all the world. You don’t even need to be an expert hiker because there are mountain trails for all levels and crystal-clear Alpine lakes. Check out the spectacular Eibsee trail loop in Bavaria at the foot of Die Zugspitze, Germany’s tallest mountain, for the clearest, multi-colored, sparkling lake you’ve ever seen. Or the Männlichen Kleine Scheidegg Panorama trail in Switzerland’s stunning green and snow-capped Alps. Or visit Italy’s Dolomites in South Tyrol for the scenic Seceda trail. The Alps have trails for every fitness level and in every season.

Other Things to See and Do in Europe

1. tour amsterdam.

I love Amsterdam so much that I lived here for a short period of time in 2006. Here cobblestone and brick streets weave around lovely canals as people ride their bikes to and fro. My favorite things to enjoy here are Amsterdam’s vibrant art and music scene and there are also a ton of interesting museums here like the Anne Frank House, FOAM, the history museum, and the hemp museum. Be sure you get out of the center into Jordaan and Oost with their wonderful outdoor cafes and fewer tourists. Also, a visit to Amsterdam wouldn’t be complete without a canal cruise to visit the many islands and there are many to choose from that include snacks and drinks, sunset cruises, live guided tours, and more.

2. Hang out in Barcelona

Barcelona is a city that goes 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It truly could give NYC a run for the “city that never sleeps” title. Be prepared for late-night dinners and parties until dawn. Besides a great food and nightlife scene, there is a wonderful beach, tons of Gaudi architecture (including the fairytale-like Parc Güell, as well as the iconic Sagrada Familia , which has been under construction for over 100 years!), incredible food tours, one of the best history museums in the country, and lots of outdoor spaces. What I love about Barcelona is that when you’re ready to chill, you can wander around Parc de la Ciutadella and marvel at the majestic fountains, plant life, and buildings created from an ornate military fortress.

3. Visit Berlin

Hip and trendy Berlin is an energetic destination. It is one of Europe’s most affordable capital cities, with a vibrant music and art scene and a growing foodie movement. Be sure to spend some time learning about the city’s darker history via the many excellent museums, memorials, and landmarks. The East Side Gallery, a section of the Berlin Wall that’s now painted with murals, and the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe are two especially powerful reminders of Germany’s past. For all periods of German history, don’t miss the Deutsches Historisches Museum (German Historical Museum) – it’s one of the best history museums in the world. Once you’ve had your fill of history, relax in Berlin’s many green spaces, from Tempelhof Field, the site of a former airfield and popular local hangout spot, to Tiergarten, a tree-covered former hunting ground for 17th-century aristocrats.

4. Drink beer at Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest is a must for anyone going to Germany at the end of September. While not a budget option since beers now cost 15 € a maß, I love the energy and friendly camaraderie this event inspires. For two weeks, millions of people from all over the world gather for lots of beer, excitement, music, and wild fun. Watching thousands of people sing together, raising quart-sized beer mugs for endless toasts, and enjoying the general party atmosphere makes you feel good about the world. (Or maybe that’s just the beer?) Just be sure to book your accommodation well in advance and be prepared to pay top prices for them. If you don’t have an outfit, don’t worry, there are plenty of shops even at the main train station where you can buy a Bavarian dirndl dress and men’s lederhosen.

5. Experience London

Get a taste of English culture in diverse London . The museums here are some of the best in the world (most are free) and include the Tate, the British Museum, the City Museum, the National Gallery, the Historical Museum. There’s no shortage of iconic sights here as well, with Big Ben, the House of Parliament, the London Eye, the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, and of course, Buckingham Palace. I love London’s diversity because of the countless international eateries with great food and wonderful pub culture, perfect for after a long day seeing the sights. Head to Brick Lane on the weekends for some amazing food and craft markets. I prefer Paris to London, but there is something sophisticated and fun about London. Just watch those pints — London is not a cheap destination!

6. Get outdoors in Scandinavia

My favorite region in Europe is Scandinavia. The quality of life here is high, the people are beautiful and friendly, and the cities are clean and historic. Cycling the cities, taking canal tours, hiking the vast forested areas, archipelago hopping, enjoying fika (a Swedish coffee break), and warming up in saunas are just a few of the popular activities that await you here. True, this area of Europe is not cheap, but there are plenty of ways to reduce your expenses. Don’t let the high prices scare you away. Highlights for me include Copenhagen , Stockholm , Gotland, Norway’s fjords, and Lapland in Finland .

7. Get enchanted in Prague

Prague has an amazing history and is one of the most beautiful and picturesque cities I’ve ever seen. Highlights include the 9th-century Prague Castle, the magnificent Charles Bridge (built in the 14th century and one of the oldest standing bridges in the world), the 10th-century old square with its iconic astronomical clock, and the winding Jewish Quarter. Even if you only have a few days there don’t miss the free walking tour which is one of my favorites in Europe and the best way to learn about the Old Town and the tragic history of the city that went from thriving Bohemian capital of art, music, and literature to part of the Iron Curtain after WWII. Some of my favorite gems here include the fantastic black light theater shows in 4D and the one-of-a-kind medieval dinner show in an old tavern complete with musicians and jugglers not to mention hearty food and drinks. During the weekends it heaves with people enjoying the bars, cheap beer, and delicious food so try to visit during the week (and in the spring or fall) to beat the crowds.

8. Relax on the French Riviera

Here, you can pretend to live the high life for a little bit. Have fun in the sun, relax on the beach, swim in azure blue water, hobnob with the rich and famous, and sail on (or gaze at) gigantic yachts. As for cities, Nice is nice with its palm-tree-lined promenade, old town, and many art museums. If you want to go see how the rich and famous live, spend an afternoon checking out Cannes to soak up some glamorous vibes on La Croisette where they hold the famous Cannes Film Festival. The kingdom of Monaco with its tiny streets, beautiful buildings, and world-famous casino is just a skip away too.

9. Enjoy the great outdoors in Interlaken

Located in the beautiful mountains of Switzerland, Interlaken is a gorgeous place to unwind with fantastic hiking, delicious hot chocolate, and plenty of outdoor sports. The area is full of natural attractions to explore, including the St. Beatus Caves (complete with a legendary dragon), the cascading 500-meter-high (1,640 feet) Giessbach Waterfalls, the Jungfraujoch mountain railway (which leads to the highest train station on the continent), and a plethora of lakes (hence the town’s name). It’s a good alternative to all the cities and museums. Interlaken is also a popular party destination for backpackers and other young travelers. By far, my favorite scenic and visually stunning trail was the Oberberghorn panoramic hike, where you can wander the green mountain ridge ogling the amazing views and the turquoise-blue Brienzersee.

10. Experience history in Rome

In this thriving historical city, you can’t walk two feet without stumbling over a ruin, making Rome a history buff’s dream. Its tiny streets are perfect for wandering as you explore the Colosseum, see the Forum and Palatine Hill, visit the Pantheon, spend time in Vatican City, admire the Spanish Steps, and toss coins into the famous Trevi Fountain. The skip-the-line tickets can definitely be worth it so you don’t waste time waiting outside attractions. Rome also has amazing food (it’s Italy, after all) and nightlife. Visit the Trastevere area for a taste of “local” Rome and chill bars. It’s my favorite area in the city because you feel like you’re in a small village in the middle of a big city.

11. Hike around the Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is my favorite part of Italy. These five beautiful cliffside towns are perched near warm waters and beautiful olive and grape groves. There are wondrous and strenuous hikes in these hills; for a real challenge, take trail #8. Or just walk the coastline for something less difficult. Many activities here revolve around the coastline: kayaking, swimming, having a beach picnic or visiting the Technical Naval Museum. If you happen to be here in December or January, don’t miss the Nativity Manarola, the world’s biggest lighted nativity scene.

12. Tour Krakow

Krakow looks like it stepped out of a medieval postcard. It’s a hip, trendy, and youthful city that’s the center of education in Poland, meaning there are a lot of university students here. Most travelers come to party here (the vodka is cheap) but try to enjoy the city’s history and food besides just the bars. Walk the Royal Road through the Old Town to the 13th-century Wawel Castle, tour Schindler’s Factory (where Schindler saved over 1,200 Jews during World War II), and visit the sobering Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp. You can also take a fascinating day trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Wieliczka Salt Mine, a 13th-century mine with cavernous chambers, statues, chapels, chandeliers, and cathedrals all carved out of salt.

13. Visit the ruin bars in Budapest

The coolest nightlife in all of Europe is found in Budapest . Built in abandoned buildings, ruin bars feature funky art installations, repurposed furniture, and quirky decor. They are amazing, fun, and great places to meet locals, as people of all ages flock here. Open since 2001, Szimpla Kert is the original ruin bar and one of my favorites, along with Instant-Fogas Complex, which takes up an entire building and is actually many different bars in one. Don’t skip the ruin bars — they’re one of the most unique things about the city!

14. Explore Cornwall

The best part of England is outside London, yet unfortunately, not a lot of travelers leave London. Head west to the area of Cornwall for cheaper prices, welcoming locals, natural beauty, great hiking, rolling hills, plenty of medieval castles, and picturesque small towns. If you like biking, the Camel Trail from Bodmin to Padstow is worth the trip and you even pass by a local vineyard. It’s an easy way to spend a day (and it’s pretty flat so it’s not too hard to do.) Plus, I had the best fish and chips in Cornwall! Overall, it’s what you think of as “traditional England.”

15. Walk the Camino

El Camino de Santiago (The Way of Saint James) is an ancient pilgrimage route that stretches from France all the way across northern Spain. It is a 500 mile (800 km) trail that winds through incredible terrain, ending in Santiago de Compostela at the cathedral where St. James is supposedly buried. As a pilgrim, you get a “pilgrim’s passport” which allows you to stay in affordable pilgrim-only hostels, making this a surprisingly budget-friendly adventure. While it usually takes over a month to complete, you can just walk a section if you don’t have the time. To receive a “Compostela” (certificate of completion), you just need to walk the last 62 miles (100 km), which generally takes 4-5 days.

16. Throw tomatoes during La Tomatina

By far my favorite festival, the largest food fight in the world happens during the last Wednesday of August in Bunol, Spain. What started in 1945 as a local brawl has turned into a massive event drawing tens of thousands of people from all over the world. For about an hour, everyone throws tomatoes at each other, leaving streets ankle-deep in tomato juice. Afterward, everyone walks down to the river, cleans off, and then heads to the town square for sangria and music.

17. Find Dracula in Romania

Not a lot of people visit Romania but this underrated country in Eastern Europe has undiscovered yet picturesque medieval towns like Brasov (home to “Dracula’s castle”), Sighisoara, and Sibiu; gorgeous beaches on the Black Sea; and incredible hiking in the Fagaras Mountains — all at dirt-cheap prices. Other major sights include frescoed Byzantine monasteries, the steepled wooden churches of Transylvania, the hip university town Cluj-Napoca, the post-communist capital of Bucharest, and the Danube Delta, a huge nature reserve.

18. Drink whisky in Islay

Whisky has a long history on Islay , an island off Scotland’s west coast. It’s been made there since the 16th-century — first in backyards and then, starting in the 19th-century, in large distilleries. Over the years, whisky from the island came to be considered a specialty and was used to flavor a lot of other blends on the mainland. There are currently nine working distilleries on the island, all located along the island’s shores, with Laphroaig, Ardbeg, and Lagavulin being the most famous. Most distilleries here make single-malt Scotch, meaning that only one type of grain (barley) is used. My visit here was amazing and, even if you don’t like whisky, there are tons of good hikes and walks throughout this magnificent island.

19. Explore Iceland

Iceland is a magical country with majestic waterfalls, hidden hot springs around every corner, and sweeping vistas unlike anywhere else in the world. After my first visit, the country quickly became one of my favorite countries. With whale watching in the summer, the northern lights in the winter, and geothermal baths for soaking in year-round, there really is no bad time to visit! While Iceland’s main draw is the epic natural landscapes, it’s worth spending a couple of days in Reykjavik with its café culture, artsy feel, and brightly colored wooden row houses.

20. Sail the Croatian coast

With calm winds, short distances, a coastline littered with over 1,000 islands, and countless historical sites, Croatia is one of the world’s best sailing destinations. If you can, go during the shoulder season when you can find some great deals. Plan to stay at least a couple of days on one of the islands, with the most popular being Brac, Hvar, Krk, Cres, and Lošinj. However, don’t be afraid to get off the beaten path and explore some of the lesser-known islands such as Silba, Vis, and Lastovo. If you want to splash out and spend a week partying on a yacht, check out The Yacht Week, which hosts week-long parties, complete with DJs, from May-September. You can book a full boat to share with friends or just a cabin if you’re traveling solo. Prices start at 5,250 HRK per person and go up to 9,300 HRK.

21. Explore the Balkans

While the Balkans have become more popular with backpackers in recent years, it’s still largely overlooked by most budget travelers, despite being an extremely budget-friendly region. The Balkan peninsula is home to great (and again, overlooked) wine, beautiful medieval towns like Kotor and Mostar, stunning mountainous landscapes, beautiful pebble beaches, coffee culture, fresh, hearty yet inexpensive food, and museums covering the area’s history, including the most recent turbulent events of the early 1990s. I especially loved my time in Albania . Don’t miss the beautiful beaches in Ksamil, nicknamed the “Maldives of Europe’ as well as the mountain village of Gjirokastër, which was occupied by Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans. The Balkans have so much to offer for every budget and every country has its unique cultural flavor.

22. Take a wine tour in the Loire Valley

Located in central France, the picturesque Loire Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site and stretches 280 kilometers (174 miles) along the Loire River. One of the major wine-producing regions of France, the area is home to some of the best wines in the world, with over 1,000 vineyards open to the public. Even those who don’t drink wine will enjoy the beautiful small towns, great food, and the region’s over 300 impressive chateaux. I loved the medieval Chenonceau Castle and Chateau Villandry and the small villages like Saint-Florent-le-Vieil. Spring and Autumn are my favorite times to visit because you can go biking and do outdoor activities when it’s not too hot and there are fewer people. It’s an area not to be missed.

23. See Fado in Portugal

Fado is an important musical tradition in Portugal , originating in Lisbon and stretching back some 200 years. The word “fado” likely stems from the Latin word for fate, and it’s very haunting, poetic, and emotional music. Most of the songs follow themes of loss and mourning, and the music was popular with the working class (especially sailors). Performances normally take place in restaurants during dinner. In Lisbon, head to Clube de Fado, Tasca do Chico, Parreirinha de Alfama, or Senhor Vinho.

24. Tour green Slovenia

Slovenia is one of Europe’s least-visited destinations, which is mind-blowing to me because it’s an amazing place to visit. Slovenia offers all the beauty of Western Europe but at a fraction of the cost and with a fraction of the crowds. Perfect for outdoor adventure lovers, Slovenia offers rugged mountains, untouched landscapes, fantastic ski resorts, plentiful wine, sprawling cave systems, incredible food, and postcard-perfect lakes, such as the famous Lake Bled with its castle on an island. I loved Piran, Slovenia’s often overlooked coastal Venetian-style harbor town that was actually founded 3000 years ago. Stroll around its beautiful windy cobble-stoned streets, beautiful plazas, and take advantage of the many affordable restaurants right on the water. Make sure to also spend a few days in the country’s capital, Ljubljana, known as one of the continent’s greenest and most livable cities. Take a river cruise to see the city and enjoy the friendliness of the locals.

  For more information on specific countries in Europe, check out the guides below:

• Albania Travel Guide
• Austria Travel Guide
• Belgium Travel Guide
• Belarus Travel Guide
• Bosnia & Herzegovina Travel Guide
• Bulgaria Travel Guide
• Czechia Travel Guide
• Croatia Travel Guide
• Denmark Travel Guide
• England Travel Guide
• Estonia Travel Guide
• Finland Travel Guide
• France Travel Guide
• Germany Travel Guide
• Greece Travel Guide
• Hungary Travel Guide
• Iceland Travel Guide
• Ireland Travel Guide
• Italy Travel Guide
• Latvia Travel Guide
• Lithuania Travel Guide
• Malta Travel Guide
• Moldova Travel Guide
• Montenegro Travel Guide
• Netherlands Travel Guide
• Norway Travel Guide
• Portugal Travel Guide
• Poland Travel Guide
• Romania Travel Guide
• Scotland Travel Guide
• Slovakia Travel Guide
• Slovenia Travel Guide
• Spain Travel Guide
• Sweden Travel Guide
• Switzerland Travel Guide
• Ukraine Travel Guide

Europe Travel Costs

Accommodation – Accommodation prices vary greatly by region. In Western Europe, hostel dorm rooms cost between 25-45 EUR per night, depending on the room’s size and the popularity of the hostel. I stayed in a 6-bed dorm in Berlin for 20 EUR, while the same one would have cost me around 45 EUR in Paris. A room in Paris costs on the higher end and a room in cheaper Athens costs on the lower end.

In Eastern Europe, hostel dorm rooms cost between 10-15 EUR per night depending on the size of the dorm room and the popularity of the hostel. The further east you go, the cheaper it gets. Expect to pay around 30-60 EUR per night for a private room that sleeps two.

In Scandinavia, hostel dorm beds cost around 25-45 EUR, while private rooms are 65-80 EUR. Budget hotels start around 85 EUR.

Most accommodations offer free linens, free Wi-Fi, and a lot offer free breakfast, but it’s important to check specific websites for exact amenities.

Campsites cost between 10-15 EUR per night for a basic plot for two without electricity.

Food – Food traditions in Europe run deep, stretching back centuries to become integral parts of each country’s culture. From baguettes in France to tapas in Spain, from hearty Eastern European stews and goulash to the fresh vegetables and olive oils of the Mediterranean, European cuisine varies as much as the countries themselves. Food prices differ greatly across the continent, so check individual country guides for specifics.

But no matter where you are, even in the more expensive countries, finding places to eat within your budget is easier than you might think. Throughout Western Europe, you can find small shops, street food stalls, or food trucks where you can get sandwiches, gyros, kebabs, slices of pizza, or sausages for between 3-7 EUR. These shops are most often found in train stations, bus stations, and main pedestrian areas, and offer cheap food alternatives that can have you eating on 12-17 EUR per day. Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 7-10 EUR for a combo meal.

Turkish, Middle Eastern, and Vietnamese eateries abound in Germany, while Indian food is incredible and everywhere in the United Kingdom. Meals at these restaurants usually cost between 8-12 EUR.

Restaurant meals in casual, traditional eateries generally cost around 13-25 EUR for a main dish and drink. Food is much cheaper in the east than in the west, and in the west, northern regions like Scandinavia and the UK are more expensive than southern countries like Spain, Portugal, and Italy.

In Eastern Europe, even if you are eating out for all your meals, you can still get by on a food budget of as little as 15 EUR per day.

For drinks, a pint of beer is 2-5 EUR, a glass of wine is 2-7 EUR, a cappuccino is 2-5 EUR, and cocktails range from 6-14 EUR.

If you eat out, do so at lunch and get the prix-fixe menu (two-course or three-course set menu). Restaurants offer this set menu during lunch, and with prices between 10-20 EUR, it’s a way better deal than the regular dinner menu. You can also get affordable lunches at outdoor markets. So many European cities have huge fresh food markets throughout town.

You can cook your own food for around 45-65 EUR per week. This gets you basic staples like rice, pasta, seasonal produce, bread, and some meat. You can save money by shopping at discount supermarkets like Profi, Lidl, Aldi, and Penny Market.

If you want to save big money on meals, head to one of the markets, pick up some cheese, wine, bread, meats, or anything else, and go to the park for a picnic. (Or grab a sandwich for later!) You’ll find the locals doing the same thing, and it’s one of the cheaper ways to get a true taste of local food.

Backpacking Europe Suggested Budgets

Prices for travel in Europe vary greatly depending on how far north, east, south, or west you travel. If you stick to the budget accommodations, food, and tours listed here and use all my tips on saving money, you need about 65-110 EUR per day in Western Europe, 40-50 EUR in Eastern Europe, and about 85-130 EUR in Scandinavia.

Those numbers reflect a traveler who stays in hostels, cooks some meals and eats out cheaply, enjoys a few drinks, and sticks to free and cheap activities like hiking, walking tours, and enjoying nature. This is your typical backpacker budget. You aren’t going to have a fancy time, but you aren’t going to want for anything either.

However, by getting tourist cards and rail passes, avoiding flights, occasionally Couchsurfing or camping, cooking all your meals, and not drinking, you can travel a lot cheaper. On this budget, you could do Western Europe on 35-45 EUR per day, Eastern Europe on 20-25 EUR, and Scandinavia on 50-65 EUR. That would require you to take a train or a bus or hitchhike everywhere, skip most museums, and limit how often you go out.

Generally, the suggested daily budget for Europe is 80-120 EUR. You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need to budget daily. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Europe Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Individual country guides have more specific information on how to save money in them but here are some general tips on cutting your costs while you explore Europe:

• Picnic – This continent has a lot of little shops where you can buy pre-made sandwiches or ingredients to make your own. Many supermarkets have delis as well where you can get food to go. Buy some food, eat outside, and watch the city and its people go by. It’s a much more enjoyable and cheaper way to eat.
• Eat local and cheap – Not into picnicking? Eat at local sandwich shops, pizza parlors, Maoz, Wok to Walks, and outdoor street vendors. Avoiding restaurants and eating at a lot of the local “grab n’ go” places gives you a taste of the local cuisine at a much cheaper price. If you’re really on a budget, use your creative cooking skills to prepare meals at the hostel as well.
• Stay with a local – Hostels can add up really quickly. If you don’t have any friends with whom you can stay, consider using Couchsurfing , which connects you with locals who let you stay with them for free. Plus, they tend to also have meetups to meet other locals and travelers. It’s a great way to save on accommodation and meet a local who can share their insider tips and advice.
• Camp in a garden – A very good camping service specific to Europe is Campspace , which allows you to pitch a tent in someone’s backyard for free or for a small fee (around 10-20 EUR). All of the garden owners have profiles that tell you what services and facilities they offer. Also, many countries allow wild camping (like Sweden), which can save you a fortune if you have a tent.
• Take the bus – Budget bus companies like Flixbus can take you across the continent for cheap. I personally feel it’s best for day travel as sitting up for an overnight bus isn’t really ideal for sleeping. It isn’t glamorous, but with tickets starting at 5 EUR, you really can’t complain!
• Get a Rail Pass – Eurail Passes have saved me hundreds of dollars. If you are traveling far distances and through many countries, they are a great deal.
• Take the free city tours – One of the great things about Europe is that you can find free walking tours in all the major cities. They can be a great way to see the city attractions, take in some history, and learn your bearings without spending any money. Just make sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Plan accordingly – Plan your trip around Europe so you avoid doubling back. Transportation is a big expense so proper planning can save you a lot of money (and time). Go in a straight line or a loop. Booking your accommodation ahead helps you save as well since cheap, good places unsurprisingly get reserved first. One thing I’ve learned is that waiting until the last minute means you get stuck with expensive places or cheap places no one wants.
• Fly cheap – If you know where you are going and a train won’t do, try to book flights early. You can often get round trip fares for as little as 5 EUR from many of the European discount airlines like Ryanair or Wizz. Many capital cities have smaller airports farther from the city with ‘inconvenient’ times but cheaper fares. Keep in mind you might need to factor in an early morning Uber or taxi if the busses aren’t running and you have an early flight!
• Drink less – Those 5 EUR beers add up. Hit happy hours or pick and choose when you party. Hostel bars are a good place to get cheap drinks or buy your alcohol at the supermarket. Plus, in Europe, it’s legal to drink outside in parks, plazas, by the lakes or rivers. You’ll find you can save a lot of money by not going to bars and clubs. Partying your way across the continent will destroy your bank balance in no time.
• Get a city tourist card – Many local tourism offices sell a tourism card for all their attractions, tours, and restaurants. This card gives you free entry and substantial discounts on all the attractions and tours in a city, free local public transportation (a huge plus), and discounts at a few restaurants and shopping malls. They save a ton of money. If you plan on doing a lot of sightseeing, get one of these cards.
• Rideshare – If you’re flexible in your schedule, use the ridesharing service BlaBlaCar to catch rides with locals between cities (or countries) by paying a small fee. It’s like Airbnb but for rides. I used this service in Switzerland and, not only did I save a lot of money, but I got to meet interesting people and learn about local culture and life. Drivers are verified and it’s perfectly safe, though sometimes rides cancel at the last minute (which is why you need to be flexible). Check their ratings first and try to use rides where the person has done many trips.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water is safe to drink in most of Europe, so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.
• Get a HostelPass – HostelPass is a discount membership for hostels in Europe. Members get 10-20% off select hostels around Europe, as well as perks like free breakfast or free drinks. There are discounts on tours and activities too. It’s a great way to save money if you’re bouncing around Europe as they have hostels in 18 countries around the continent.

Where to Stay in Europe

Europe has a ton of budget accommodation options. The individual country and city guides have tons of recommendations but here’s a short list of some of my favorite budget hostels and hotels around Europe:

• The Flying Pig (Amsterdam, The Netherlands)
• Hotel 54 (Barcelona, Spain)
• Generator Hostel (Copenhagen, Denmark)
• Harcourt Hotel (Dublin, Ireland)
• Castle Rock (Edinburgh, Scotland)
• Ios Palm Pansion (Ios, Greece)
• Greg and Tom’s Party Hostel (Krakow, Poland)
• Largo da Sé Guest House (Lisbon, Portugal)
• Sophie’s Hostel (Prague, Czech Republic)
• The Yellow (Rome, Italy)
• City Backpackers (Stockholm, Sweden)

How to Get Around Europe

Public transportation – Transportation around most European cities is by tram, subway, or bus. Prices are typically around 2 EUR for a one-way ticket in Western Europe and closer to 1 EUR in Eastern Europe. Most large cities also have day passes available that offer unlimited public transportation. These passes are usually 5-12 EUR per day.

In large cities with international airports, there is usually a bus or train available that ferries travelers from the downtown core to the airport. Expect to pay around 5-15 EUR to get to/from the airport.

Bus – Buses are not quite as comfortable as Europe’s trains, although certain lines do have great amenities (like roomy seats and Wi-Fi). While buses are not the most efficient way to travel around the continent, they’re certainly dependable, reliable, and cheap. You can find last-minute rides for as little as 5 EUR. A route from Berlin to Munich is about 25 EUR, while Paris to Bordeaux can be as low as 10 EUR. Longer routes, like Amsterdam to Copenhagen, start at around 47 EUR.

Each country has its own national bus service, but some lines also take you long distances internationally. Megabus and Flixbus (which now owns Eurolines) are the most popular companies.

Train – Train travel is a great way to see Europe. Intercity train prices vary wildly from country to country, depending on whether you take the slow train or a high-speed train and how far in advance you book. For example, a high-speed train from Berlin to Munich costs around 38-60 EUR, Bordeaux to Paris is about 50-85 EUR, and Madrid to Barcelona ranges from 45-85 EUR. Non-high-speed trains and other intercity lines are a lot cheaper, generally costing about 40-50% of the price of high-speed trains. Eastern Europe inter-country trains usually cost between 45-100 EUR when the ticket is booked last minute. Short train rides of 2-3 hours within countries cost about 27 EUR.

To find routes and prices for trains around Europe, use Trainline .

You may also want to consider getting a Eurail Pass , which allows travelers to explore Europe by providing a set number of stops in a specific time period. These passes are continent-wide, country-specific, or regional. It can potentially save you hundreds of dollars.

Ridesharing/Car sharing – If your schedule is flexible, use a ridesharing service and catch rides with locals between cities (or countries). Drivers are verified and it’s perfectly safe. BlaBlaCar is the most popular.

If you’d rather rent a car yourself and find passengers to share a ride with, use Discover Cars to find the best car rental prices.

Flying – Budget airlines are so prolific that competition helps keep fares low. You can often find tickets where the fare is just 5 EUR round-trip! Companies like EasyJet, Ryanair, Wizz, and Vueling offer mind-blowingly cheap flights throughout Europe. Book at least a month early to scoop up great deals.

Make sure that the airport they fly into isn’t too far out of your way (transportation from the secondary airport sometimes negates the savings from using the budget airline itself).

Keep in mind that you’ll have to pay to check your baggage on these cheap flights. It costs about 25-39 EUR for one checked bag. If you wait to pay for your luggage at the gate, you end up paying almost double. Travel carry-on only to avoid this added cost.

Hitchhiking – Hitchhiking in Europe is very safe, but it’s not for everyone. Hitching is quite common around the continent and I’ve met a number of travelers who have done it (I, myself, traveled this way in Bulgaria and Iceland). Some countries are very supportive (Romania, Iceland, Germany) while others may be a bit more time-consuming (Italy, Spain). HitchWiki is the best website for hitchhiking info.

Here are my suggested articles for how to get around Europe:

• 7 Cheap Ways to Travel Across Europe
• Are Eurail Passes a Giant Scam or Do They Save You Money?
• The Ultimate Guide to Finding Cheap Flights

When to Go to Europe

There’s no wrong time to visit Europe. Peak season is summer, when Europe gets crowded and August is the time most European families are at the beach so everything becomes more crowded and expensive. But the overall atmosphere and weather are great during this time, so it’s still worth visiting during peak season (just book your accommodation in advance — especially in August). Keep in mind it’s much hotter in summer so if you like AC, be sure to check that your hostel or hotel has it before you book. You can expect the most crowds in Western Europe. For this reason, I feel summer is a great time to visit the Balkans and the Baltics because many people head to the beaches in Spain, France, Italy, Croatia, and Greece.

Shoulder season is spring and fall (April-May and September-October). It’s still warm during this time but there aren’t as many crowds and prices are cheaper. This is my favorite time to visit hotspot places like Spain, Croatia and Greece, where it’s still hot enough to swim in the sea but you have way more room on the beach. It’s also a good time to go hiking in the Alps in Germany, northern Italy, Slovenia and Switzerland because it’s cooler during the day so you’re much less sweaty on the mountain without shade. The weather is good, the crowds are smaller, and the prices lower.

Winter is from November to February but in much of Central Europe, it’s wet and cold until March or April. It gets cold, even as far south as it gets (like Greece). On the other hand, the Christmas season has Christmas markets and festivals galore! Even if it’s cold, this is a cultural tradition you can’t miss and why I love Europe in December. There is hot mulled wine, sweets, and plenty of hot snacks, which vary by country. One of my favorites is Prague because the Old Town Square is lit up with a gigantic tree with aromas of crispy cinnamon pastries and mulled wine. Berlin takes their Christmas markets very seriously, so there are around 80 different markets with special themes.

Winter is fantastic in Europe for skiing and snowboarding but it doesn’t have to break the bank if you plan carefully. While Switzerland and France are probably the most famous, they are also expensive, but there are plenty of budget winter options.

How to Stay Safe in Europe

Europe is very safe for backpacking and solo traveling, even if you’re traveling solo, and even as a solo female traveler. Violent crimes against tourists are very rare. In fact, some of the safest countries in the world are in Europe. (I wrote a whole article about how Europe is safe to visit right now .)

That said, there are scams and petty crimes you should watch out for, especially around popular tourist landmarks. The most important thing to be aware of is pickpockets in crowds and on public transportation. Zip your bags and don’t put your mobile phone in a jacket pocket where someone could quickly take it. This should be obvious but don’t flash your money to let everyone know you have a huge wad of cash.

When choosing a hostel, look for ones with lockers. It’s always a good idea to carry around a padlock or combination lock. Most hostels are safe and travelers respect each other and I’ve rarely seen things happen to people’s valuables. Nevertheless, I always think that prevention is better.

As anywhere, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). When at the bar, always keep an eye on your drink. Avoid walking home alone at night if you’re intoxicated.

For female travelers in particular, it’s always a good idea to have a bit of extra money on you just in case you need to take an Uber or taxi back by yourself so you don’t take unnecessary risks to save money. If you’re using apps to date people while traveling, please use common sense and meet in public places. Since I’m not a female traveler, please check out the numerous female bloggers who have first hand knowledge of this.

If you’re worried about scams, you can read about common travel scams to avoid here.

If you rent a vehicle, don’t leave any valuables in it overnight. Break-ins are rare, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Be aware that the UK drives on the left and that most rental cars in Europe will have manual transmissions unless you request otherwise.

When hiking, always bring water, sunscreen, and bandaids or foot plasters. There is nothing worse than being halfway up the mountain with a blister and nothing you can do about it!

Likewise, when at the coast, don’t forget not only to wear sunscreen! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen people get burnt to a crisp the first day. Be sure to check the weather before you depart and dress accordingly.

If you do experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary to loved ones so they know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Europe Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

GO DEEPER: Nomadic Matt’s In-Depth Budget Guide to Europe!

While I have a lot of free tips on Europe, I also wrote an entire book that goes into great detail on everything you need to plan a trip here on a budget! You’ll get suggested itineraries, budgets, even more ways to save money, my favorite restaurants, prices, practical information (i.e. phone numbers, websites, prices, safety advice, etc etc), and cultural tips.

I’ll give the insider view of Europe that I got from years of traveling and living here! The downloadable guide can be used on your Kindle, iPad, phone, or computer so you can have it with you when you go. Click here to learn more about my book on Europe!

Europe Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more tips for your trip? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Europe travel and continue planning your trip:

The Perfect 7-Day Croatia Itinerary

The 6 Best Hotels in Copenhagen

The 6 Best Hotels in Florence

The 7 Best Hotels in Madrid

The 6 Best Hotels in Vienna

The Best Walking Tours in Barcelona

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

Australia to Europe CHEAP FLIGHTS from A$624

Australia is a long way from anywhere, and Europe is literally on the opposite side of the world.

I’ve watched as the prices of international flights doubled, sometimes tripled in 2023.

Hi, we’re Rach & Marty!

We’ve visited every country in the world and want to help you get the most out of your travels!

Whether you need an expertly planned itinerary , some experienced hints and tips , or just craving a delicious food adventure , we’ve got you covered!

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Post Updated 15 Mar, 2024

If you expected to book Australia to Europe cheap flights during the European summer this year (for a fair price), you probably dismissed the idea the moment you saw the inflated fares.

Unfortunately, it seems that all airlines are quoting these super high fares. So, is it absurd to hope that Australia to Europe cheap flights exist in 2024?

Better yet, could there be an Australia to Europe cheap flight to visit within the next six months?

Table of Contents

Yes, a cheap flight from Australia to Europe for 2024 is available 

I’ve spent hours researching the cheapest flight Australia to Europe and the cheapest place to fly to in Europe from Australia.

They exist – and here’s how you can book them.

From my research, I found the cheapest flight from Australia to Europe is from Sydney to Athens, Greece. You can book this flight now for as little as A$624 in Oct 2024.

There’s another AMAZING cheap flight from Melbourne to Athens for A$695.

Maybe you’d prefer to fly to Germany? There’s another cheap flight from Melbourne (or Sydney) to Berlin, Germany. 

Australia to Europe cheap flights – Which airline?

I booked this cheap flight from Melbourne to Athens with Scoot Airlines. If you’re wondering who this low-cost, long-haul airline is – read my Honest Scoot Airlines Review .

Before you make quick judgments about hearing those words ‘ low-cost’, this airline is a little sister to the well-respected Singapore Airlines. Scoot has been operating for 10+ years and has won some outstanding awards for its service. 

So, why is Fly Scoot not as well-known in the industry as other airline carriers? I have no idea.

My Experience – Cheapest Flight from Australia to Europe

I’m often asked, “What is the cheapest country to fly to in Europe from Australia?” My answer is to fly to either Athens in Greece or Berlin in Germany. Let me explain more below.

The first time I chose to fly with Scoot Airlines was in February 2022. I paid AUD 342 for my Melbourne (MEL) flight to Athens (ATH). If you do the calculations, that’s about EUR 240.

This was the cheapest flight to Europe from Australia that I’ve ever taken, and it was very comfortable.

Seriously, the best way to fly to Europe from Australia if you want the cheapest deal is with Scoot.

I didn’t have to endure ridiculously long stopovers. Instead, it was as direct as you can get, with a stop at Changi Airport in Singapore—one of the best-rated airports in the world.

After a short changeover at Singapore airport (and enough time to devour a huge bowl of Laksa soup), connecting to my second flight to Athens was easy.

The best thing about this cheap Scoot flight from Australia to Europe is that you can also book this flight in two sectors (MEL-SIN) and (SIN-ATH) for a low price.

This means you can stop over and see these  10 best places to visit in Singapore .

If you need a little more convincing that Singapore is worth seeing, read these  7 reasons to travel to Singapore.

Learn more about Fly Scoot 

Go to FlyScoot website and check the cheapest flights from Australia to Europe you are likely to find anywhere. 

If you’re saving A$600 on a one-way flight from Australia to Europe, who really cares if you don’t get that little TV screen on the back of the chair for entertainment or the ‘open bar service’ anyway?

If I’m being honest, I felt like a million dollars after flying Australia to Europe on this cheap flight, having consumed zero alcohol.

As you will read in my Scoot Airlines Review – to put it plainly, you pay for what you need with Fly Scoot. So, for example, if you want to eat on board, you pre-book your meals (for about $15 each). 

Your Scoot Airlines cheap flight from Australia to Europe includes some luggage allowance, but if you need more – you simply pay for it. You can read more about add-ons on Scoot Fees Chart .

I’m very familiar with this concept now from flying around Europe on low-cost carriers for the past decade.

And it’s a huge reason why I travel with my Osprey 40L carry-on backpack , it weighs no more than 10kg. This way, I avoid paying excess luggage fees, and I don’t have to risk losing my luggage.

If you saw the chaos this year in airports across the world of travellers having no idea where their luggage is (after taking a flight), then you should consider travelling lighter too. 

TIP: But, if you need to check your bags, my tip is that you get a Samsung luggage tracker (or this 2 pack of luggage tags if you’re travelling with a family). At least if you have this in your luggage and the airline has no idea where in the world your luggage has landed, you will.

Get Connected with eSIM

Get connected easily on your travels—buy an eSIM! It works like an app: buy it, download it, and get connected in minutes! It’s easy, affordable, and convenient. Keep your original phone number, too!

Use our code: RACHEL5045  to get $3 off your first purchase!

My Best Tip for a cheap flight from Australia to Europe – Be organised

As I mentioned, Scoot Airlines doesn’t have fancy onboard entertainment. But it’s so easy to entertain yourself. Bring your laptop or phone loaded with Netflix series and movies, a good power bank for extra battery, and your AirPods—and you’re good to go!

I won’t go into all the details about what you do and don’t get with Scoot Airlines, as it’s all included in my Scoot Review .

• 🔥 Hot Tip: Book accommodation on Booking.com
• 🎟 Book your tickets online: We use Viator and GetYourGuide
• 🔋 Stay charged: This Belkin Power Bank is essential!
• 📸 Join a Group Tour: Search Tourradar for Group Tours
• ✅ Get Connected with eSIM: Easy and affordable! View eSIM

Cheap flight Melbourne to Greece? Yes, please!

The best thing about the cheap flights Melbourne to Athens route is that it’s a fantastic city to spend a few days in before you fly onwards.

If you book this flight, though, I highly recommend you spend at least a day in Athens. Check out our itinerary for how to spend one day in Athens here .

We’ve got you covered for enjoying some tremendous Greek cuisine in Athens, too. Read more about the best restaurants and places to eat in Athens.

Australia to Europe Cheap Flights you can book right now 

Search and book one of these cheapest flights from Australia to Europe with Scoot now if you plan to head to Europe in 2024. You can search directly on their website or our preferred flight booking website, Skyscanner.com .

The flights from Melbourne & Sydney to Athens/Berlin won’t last long.

Australia to Europe cheap flights from A$624 – Seriously!

Can you believe the low price, starting from just A$624 from Sydney to Athens? Or that you can fly from Melbourne to Berlin for A$695 in Oct 2024?

Don’t miss our EUROPE CITY GUIDES

• ROME 3 Days Itinerary
• VENICE 1-Day Itinerary
• FLORENCE 2 Days Itinerary
• AMSTERDAM 3 Day Itinerary
• PARIS 4 Days Itinerary
• BUDAPEST 2 Days Itinerary
• PRAGUE 2 Days Itinerary
• LONDON 1 Day Itinerary
• ATHENS 1 Day Itinerary
• BERLIN 2 Days Itinerary
• VIENNA 2 Days Itinerary
• LISBON 2 Days Itinerary

Travelling to Europe in shoulder season is better, and cheaper

The below prices are for travel to Europe from Australia in Oct 2024 – Did you know that October is a good month to visit Europe?

The crowds are smaller, so you can enjoy reduced shoulder season prices for booking hotels . The best part is that the weather is pleasant—not sweltering hot (as you can expect in the high season from June to August).

View Scoot’s Full Flight Schedule here

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A Final word on these Australia to Europe cheap flights

I am not an ambassador for Scoot nor receive any fees or commissions from recommending this airline.

The reason why I wrote this post about how to book the cheapest flight from Australia to Europe is to help you book a cheap travel deal so you can visit Europe this year if you so wish. 

But be prepared! Europe is busy in 2024! So, consider my advice in this post and travel to Europe in October 202 4.

Read more in our recent post –  7 Best Tips for Traveling to Europe.

Travel Tips for Europe

We have many travel guides and tips for Europe— an incredible continent!

Are you travelling on a budget? These ten cheapest European countries will help you plan an itinerary that lets you see as much as possible while there.

Furthermore, if you plan to travel long-term (or at least until the money runs out), these 21 cheapest countries to visit will help you make your hard-earned dollars stretch a bit further.

Delicious cuisine can be enjoyed across Europe, and our food map of Europe will inspire your culinary journey.

For food lovers, don’t miss our top 10 best countries for foodies, a couple of them are located in Europe.

Here are 8 things to know about travelling to Eastern Europe  and it’s good to know these  7 misconceptions about Eastern Europe  too.

These top 6 travel hacks to save money  are great to read when planning your travels.

You’ll need to stay connected while travelling in Europe. We recommend eSIM. It’s easy, reliable and affordable. View eSIMs for individual European countries , or consider a regional eSIM for Europe (which covers 39 countries).

If your travels in Europe are part of a much larger global adventure, then a Global eSIM may be the answer. It connects you in 124 countries , offering data-only eSIM and data/call/text eSIM . The Global eSIM has been a game-changer; we couldn’t imagine travelling without it now.

If you want to travel with like-minded travellers, consider joining a group tour. View the best deals on group tours in Europe .

Finally, check out our travel resources page for the best websites, tools and products we use to travel the world.

View the travel gear we use on the road, and don’t miss our best-ever travel tips compiled from more than twenty years of experience. 

Travel Planning Resources

✈️ Flights : We use Skyscanner to book cheap flights worldwide.

🏨 Accommodation :  Booking.com is our preferred platform for booking hotels and accommodation. We use Vrbo to book apartments and long-term stays.

🏥 Travel Insurance : We recommend Heymondo ( Get 5% off Heymondo)  & SafetyWing

🚌 Transportation : Trainline is the best website to reserve trains. We use Omio to book transport worldwide. For travel in Asia, we use 12Go.  

🚘 Car Rental : We use DiscoverCars to book rental cars worldwide.

👫 Group Tours :  G Adventures OR compare multi-day tours worldwide with Tourradar .

📸 Day Tours & Trips :  GetYourGuide  & Viator are the only two platforms you need.

📚 Lonely Planet: The Best Range of Travel Guides & Ebooks , and FREE Shipping! (use code RACHELDAVEY10 for a 10% discount)

🎒 Luggage :  Osprey Farpoint 40L Backpack  or  Samsonite Luggage Range.

🛄 What to Pack:  Don’t forget your Universal charger and a good  power bank .  To help you pack the essentials, here is our ULTIMATE Packing List for all Travellers .

🐶 Become a House Sitter:  Join Trusted Housesitters and enjoy FREE accommodation worldwide. Use our invite to receive 25% off your new membership.

💰 Send Money Anywhere: WISE  &  Revolut  are the best online accounts that let you send money, get paid, and spend money internationally. Both are so easy to use and way cheaper than any bank transfer.

📶  Stay Connected: Airalo eSIM allows you to get connected the moment you land at your destination, and you can avoid those expensive data roaming charges. We LOVE this product! Use promo code NOMAD15 for 15% off ALL eSIMs (new Airalo users only) OR use NOMAD10 for 10% off ALL eSIMs (for existing Airalo users)

✅ Check out our Travel Gear  and  Travel Resources for more valuable tips to save you money!

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9 comments . leave new.

thanks for a great article Rach – I spend a lot of time hunting for fares with outlaws living in Spain – this has given me some great ideas – hope that Scoot will have similarly low fares towards end of 2023 when I’m hoping to make a trip.

I have got a bit of an emergency. My Dad is dying in Munic and I need to fly from Cairns Australia. FlysScoot is not operational it seems and the other search engine, CheapoAir, doe s not take dates (inactive!) Can you please help. Thank you Sabine

Hi Sabine, So sorry to hear this sad news. You could try and search for a flight with Aviasales or perhaps Singapore Airlines, Qantas or Qatar – you could try directly on their websites or the flights should show up on Aviasales booking platform.

The World Deaf Basketball Championships, which will be held in Heraklion, Greece from June 13–24, 2023 (only 12 weeks away! ), intrigues me. I like to know how to make the best hotel and airline reservations.

Regards David

I neglected to include a comment.

I reside in the Gold Coast. I’m curious as to whether there are flights available from Brisbane to Greece or if one must first fly to Sydney or Melbourne.

Hi David, these flights are for departures from MEL & SYD only at the moment.

Hi David, our Travel Resources Page on our travel website has all the answers for you.

Hi Rach I tried to find that special to Athens from Sydney on scoot but couldn’t see that price. Does Scoot still offer promotion deals. They used to have a special code. Thanks Nick

I don’t know about a special code to get a better price. I recently updated this post with some dates/fares that were still available, but it sounds like they’ve all been booked.

It makes sense now as we’re just entering the peak summer season in Europe. Hopefully, they release more discounted fares soon, and I’d recommend signing up to receive the Scoot newsletter so you’re one of the first to know when they do.

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See Europe as the Europeans do this summer with these pro tips | Cruising Altitude

Americans are heading to Europe for vacation as much as ever these days, and that means the typical tourist spots like Venice, Paris and London are sure to be crowded this year. But, because this is Cruising Altitude, we’ll look at the aviation angle first.

First and foremost: If you’re really determined to go to Europe this summer and haven’t booked yet, stop reading now and get on it. 

“I’ve never seen a year like this … We’re at the point where there’s no more availability,” Brigitte Armand, president of Eurobound , a tour organizer that specializes in European packages, told me. “Book as quickly as possible.” 

How to get around

According to Armand, trains are generally a great way to get from place to place within Europe, but for farther-flung stops, the continent’s network of low-cost airlines offers travelers a reliable alternative.

Learn more: Best travel insurance

“Don’t think of one airline as being your network and entry point within Europe,” Laura Lindsay, public relations director at online booking platform Skyscanner told me.

She said if you’re flying to Europe from the U.S., you may well rely on a large network carrier like British Airways, KLM, or Lufthansa to get across the Atlantic and then book your intra-European flights separately.

“You’re suddenly opening up Europe in a different way if you search for different airports and multiple airlines,” Lindsay said. “It’s pretty straightforward to get around, so don’t feel put off by jumping through a few different countries or trying a few different destinations.” 

Tips for European airlines

According to Lindsay, European low-cost carriers like Ryanair, Easyjet and Wizz Air often have stricter baggage policies like American ULCCs Spirit and Frontier.

“(The) top tip would be always make sure you understand the luggage allowance that is part of your ticket,” she said. “More often than not, don’t book the basic fare without checking.”

It’s also a good idea to be flexible with your airports and dates of travel if you want to get the best deals on those shorter flights.

“You’ll get a number of places that have more than one airport,” Lindsay said, noting that Skyscanner has a tool that allows travelers to search for flights to or from nearby airports when choosing a destination. “Just getting a map out and actually looking at where exactly you want to travel and where the nearby airports are.” 

Armand added that if you take the train instead, you may need to secure a reservation in advance, particularly for some of the more tourist-heavy routes like panoramic trains in Switzerland. 

Last week's Cruising Altitude: There was no Golden Age of flying. We're in it now.

Where to go

If you really want to summer like a European, you should consider places a little more off the radar for most Americans.

“Albania is somewhere that broke through a couple of years ago as somewhere that people recognized as offering a huge value for money,” Lindsay said. “Sarajevo is reporting its busiest April on record for travelers.”

Armand said it can also be a good idea to try different parts of countries that are already popular if you want a more authentic, less crowded experience.

“We recently arranged a whole trip for some clients in the Abruzzo region of Italy,” she said. “The Abruzzo region, it’s on the Adriatic, people don’t know this region, and I think this is the first time ever we put together a package to get to that region.” 

Data from Skyscanner shows that some destinations in Europe are picking up in popularity with travelers on the continent. Here are some trends bubbling up year over year from 2023 to 2024:

◾ Ljubljana, Slovenia, saw a 188% increase in searches from Spanish travelers

◾ Tromso, Norway, saw a 130% increase in interest from Italian holidaymakers

◾ Dusseldorf, Germany, had a 122% spike in interest from Brits

According to Armand, the best last-minute availability seems to be in Eastern Europe, like Bulgaria and Poland.

“There are some good deals there perhaps, even the Czech Republic I’m finding some decent space,” she said.

So go on, get packing.

Zach Wichter is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in New York. You can reach him at [email protected].