Travel Budget for Western Europe

Daily travel costs in Western Europe range from about $143/day (mid-range in Berlin) to $230/day (in Zurich). The regional average is around $166–$181 per person per day at mid-range level.

Berlin in Germany is the most affordable city in Western Europe, with mid-range daily costs starting at around $143 per person. Budget travelers can spend as little as $45/day.

Zurich in Switzerland is the most expensive destination in Western Europe, with mid-range daily costs up to $230 per person. Luxury travel there can reach $670/day.

Budget travelers in Western Europe typically spend $60–90 per day in France, Germany, and the Benelux countries, and $80–120 in Switzerland and the Nordic fringe. These estimates cover hostel stays, a mix of self-catering and affordable restaurants, public transport, and some paid attractions.

Portugal is often considered the cheapest Western European destination, though it is sometimes grouped with Southern Europe. Among core Western European countries, Germany and Austria offer the best value, with efficient public transit, affordable supermarkets, and reasonable hostel prices. France can be affordable outside of Paris.

Switzerland is genuinely one of the most expensive travel destinations in the world, with restaurant meals averaging $25–40, budget hotel rooms starting at $80–100, and even grocery prices running 50% above neighboring countries. Using the Swiss Travel Pass, shopping at Coop and Migros supermarkets, and staying in mountain huts or hostels are essential cost-saving strategies.

The Eurail Global Pass covers 33 European countries and is ideal for multi-country trips. For single-country travel, national passes like the German Rail Pass or Swiss Travel Pass often offer better value. Booking individual advance-purchase tickets can be cheaper than any pass for fixed itineraries with few travel days.