7-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Europe

Day 1: Paris Exploration

Paris, France

8:00AM

Visit the Eiffel Tower

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Eiffel Tower, offering panoramic views of Paris. Consider walking up to the second floor to save on the ticket cost.
€7-€26, 2-3 hours

11:30AM

Explore Montmartre

Take a stroll through the charming Montmartre neighborhood, visit the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, and enjoy the artistic vibe of this area. Grab a croissant from a local bakery for a budget-friendly snack.
€2-€5, 2 hours

2:00PM

Louvre Museum

Head to the Louvre Museum to admire the world-famous art collection, including the iconic Mona Lisa. Consider visiting on a Wednesday or Friday evening when the museum offers discounted entry.
€15-€17, 3-4 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at a Bistro

Enjoy a budget-friendly dinner at a cozy bistro in the Latin Quarter. Try classic French dishes like boeuf bourguignon or quiche Lorraine.
€15-€20, 1-2 hours

Day 2: Paris Cultural Experience

Paris, France

9:00AM

Visit Notre-Dame Cathedral

Start your day with a visit to the stunning Notre-Dame Cathedral. Admire the Gothic architecture and take a leisurely walk along the Seine River.
Free, 1-2 hours

11:30AM

Picnic at Luxembourg Gardens

Pick up some fresh baguettes, cheese, and fruits from a local market and have a budget-friendly picnic at the scenic Luxembourg Gardens.
€8-€12, 2 hours

3:00PM

Explore Le Marais

Wander through the trendy Le Marais district, known for its historic architecture, trendy boutiques, and falafel shops. Visit the Place des Vosges, the oldest planned square in Paris.
Free, 2-3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at a Sidewalk Cafe

Enjoy a leisurely dinner at a sidewalk café in the charming neighborhood of Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Try a hearty bowl of French onion soup or a classic steak frites.
€15-€20, 1-2 hours

Day 3: Paris Farewell

Paris, France

9:00AM

Visit Versailles

Take a day trip to the Palace of Versailles to explore the opulent palace, the stunning gardens, and the Hall of Mirrors. Consider bringing your own snacks to enjoy in the expansive gardens.
€18, 4-5 hours

3:00PM

Stroll along the Seine River

Spend the late afternoon walking along the banks of the Seine River, taking in the beautiful views of iconic landmarks such as the Musée d'Orsay and the Île de la Cité.
Free, 1-2 hours

7:00PM

Farewell Dinner

Indulge in a farewell dinner at a cozy brasserie in the charming neighborhood of Montparnasse. Try traditional French dishes like coq au vin or ratatouille.
€20-€25, 2 hours

Day 4: Roman Adventure

Rome, Italy

9:00AM

Explore the Colosseum

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Colosseum, an ancient amphitheater that is a marvel of Roman engineering. Consider purchasing a combined ticket for the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill to save money.
€12-€16, 2-3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at a Trattoria

Enjoy a leisurely Roman lunch at a traditional trattoria near the Colosseum. Try classic Roman dishes like cacio e pepe or carbonara.
€10-€15, 1-2 hours

3:00PM

Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

Explore the ancient ruins of the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, immersing yourself in the history of ancient Rome and enjoying panoramic views of the city.
€12-€16, 2-3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner in Trastevere

Savor a delightful dinner in the charming neighborhood of Trastevere, known for its narrow cobblestone streets and lively atmosphere. Try authentic Roman cuisine like supplì (rice croquettes) and fried artichokes.
€15-€20, 1-2 hours

Day 5: Vatican City and Pantheon

Rome, Italy

9:00AM

Explore Vatican City

Visit St. Peter's Basilica and wander through the Vatican Museums, home to the Sistine Chapel. Consider visiting early to avoid large crowds.
€17-€20, 3-4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch near the Vatican

Enjoy a simple yet delicious lunch at a local trattoria near the Vatican. Try classic Italian dishes like bruschetta or a caprese salad.
€10-€15, 1 hour

3:00PM

Pantheon Visit

Marvel at the ancient Roman Pantheon, a remarkable architectural wonder with its iconic dome and oculus. Take a moment to appreciate the history and grandeur of this monument.
Free, 1-2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner in Campo de' Fiori

Dine at a cozy trattoria in the vibrant Campo de' Fiori square. Sample traditional Roman dishes like amatriciana pasta or saltimbocca.
€15-€20, 1-2 hours

Day 6: Barcelona Beginnings

Barcelona, Spain

9:00AM

Visit La Sagrada Familia

Start your day with a visit to the iconic La Sagrada Familia, a masterpiece designed by Antoni Gaudí. Consider purchasing tickets in advance to save time and money.
€17-€26, 2-3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at La Boqueria Market

Explore the vibrant La Boqueria Market and enjoy a fresh and affordable lunch at one of the market stalls. Try a variety of tapas, fresh seafood, or Spanish omelette.
€10-€15, 1-2 hours

3:00PM

Explore Park Güell

Take a leisurely stroll through the whimsical Park Güell, another Gaudí masterpiece. Enjoy the colorful mosaic sculptures and panoramic views of Barcelona.
€7-€10, 2-3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Barceloneta Beach

Indulge in a relaxed beachside dinner at Barceloneta Beach. Try fresh seafood paella or a refreshing gazpacho soup.
€20-€25, 1-2 hours

Day 7: Barcelona Farewell

Barcelona, Spain

9:00AM

Visit Gothic Quarter

Explore the enchanting Gothic Quarter, known for its medieval streets, charming plazas, and historic architecture. Visit the Barcelona Cathedral and take in the vibrant atmosphere.
Free, 2-3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Plaça Reial

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the outdoor cafes in the picturesque Plaça Reial. Try traditional Catalan dishes like pa amb tomàquet (tomato bread) and escalivada (grilled vegetables).
€12-€18, 1-2 hours

3:00PM

Visit Park de la Ciutadella

Spend the afternoon at Park de la Ciutadella, a serene oasis in the heart of Barcelona. Visit the beautiful fountain, stroll through the gardens, and relax by the lake.
Free, 1-2 hours

7:00PM

Farewell Dinner

Indulge in a farewell dinner at a tapas bar in the lively El Born neighborhood. Sample a variety of tapas, from patatas bravas to chorizo al vino.
€15-€20, 1-2 hours