Your Guide to European Travel Costs

Traveling within the Schengen area, a collection of 29 European countries that allow for passport-free travel across their borders, is a dream for many.

However, understanding the costs associated with this experience is imperative to properly prepare for your journey abroad. Whether you're planning a short vacation or an extended stay, this article will uncover everything you need to know about travel expenses, including everything from Schengen fees to travel insurance.

How much is a Schengen visa?

To enter the Schengen area, most non-European travelers need a Schengen visa.

As of June 2024, the standard fee for a Schengen visa is €90 for adults. For children between 6 and 12 years old, the fee is €45, and children under 6 can apply for a visa for free.

Keep in mind, that these fees can vary depending on your nationality and any agreements between your country and the EU, as well as the exact visa that you’re applying for. Because of this, it’s always important to check directly with the embassy of the country you’re traveling to.

Schengen visa costs in USD

Since currency exchange rates can vary, the cost of a Schengen visa in USD changes too. That’s why it's a good idea to check the current exchange rates before applying to make sure you have an accurate idea of the price in your local currency. Visa application centers may also charge additional service fees, so keep that in mind.

Schengen visa fees are non-refundable, even in the event of visa rejection.

Other costs to travel to Europe for 3 to 6 Months

Beyond the visa itself, you’ll need to prepare for other costs that will impact your budget. For example, how long you plan to stay will make a big difference. Are you staying one week? A month? What about more? Let’s break down the average expenses to plan for:

How much does 3 months in Europe cost?

The cost of spending three months in Europe varies greatly from traveler to traveler and from country to country. For example, a trip to Paris, France has different costs than one to Warsaw, Poland.

With that being said, If you’re staying in the Schengen area, you’ll need to plan for expenses like:

• Schengen visa fees (if you're traveling on a visa)
• Schengen visa insurance
• Accommodation
• Transportation
• Meals
• Activities

Accommodation and transportation will likely take up the largest portion of your budget. Depending on where you’re traveling from, you can expect to spend in the thousands.

When it comes to meals and activities, the price you can expect to pay will depend entirely on your preferences – like whether or not you plan to grocery shop and cook or to dine out regularly.

It’s entirely possible to watch your budget while visiting Europe by finding reasonably priced meals and taking advantage of low-cost (or even free) museums, gardens, and landmarks.

How much does 6 months in Europe cost?

If you’re planning to stay in the Schengen area for more than 6 months, there will be a variety of costs you need to be prepared for.

The first cost will be applying for the appropriate Schengen visa. The price depends on the specific visa you’ll be applying for. You’ll also need to factor in the cost of Schengen visa insurance. When applying for a Schengen visa, you must show proof of compliant Schengen insurance. This cost also varies depending on the total duration of your stay, how many travelers need coverage, and which provider you choose.

Lastly, you’ll need to secure accommodations and transportation, as well as plan for meals and any activities while on your trip abroad. Accommodation and transportation will likely be the most costly part of your visit to Europe.

Is there a fee to enter the Schengen zone?

No. There isn’t a fee to enter the Schengen zone itself. However, if you need ETIAS or a visa to enter, that’s where your costs come into play. Citizens from visa-exempt countries will need to obtain ETIAS from 2025 on, which has a small fee associated with it (7 euros). Travelers from other countries need to apply for a Schengen visa, which also has a cost.

How much money do you need for the Schengen area?

European countries often require you to show that you have sufficient funds to cover your stay. The exact amount varies by country. If you’re getting a visa for your European travels, you’ll be asked to show proof of financial means when you apply.

This financial requirement is meant to ensure that travelers can support themselves during their visit without relying on local resources.

Always check with the specific visa center, consulate, or embassy about the required amount, as it is different in each country.

Schengen travel costs: what to expect

While the visa fee is relatively straightforward, other expenses will vary depending on your travel style. Here are a few things to consider:

• Accommodation: Depending on where you stay, costs range greatly. Staying in a shared hostel, for example, will be significantly less expensive than a 5-star hotel. With that being said, accommodation will likely be the largest bulk of your budget.
• Transportation: If you’re traveling between cities or countries, you’ll need to budget for train tickets, rental cars, or flights. Budget airlines like Ryanair and EasyJet offer affordable flights, but transportation costs vary greatly and change multiple times daily.
• Meals: Dining can be inexpensive, especially if you eat at local cafes or markets, or grocery shop and cook your meals.
• Activities and sightseeing: Visiting museums, historical landmarks, and other tourist attractions will also add to your expenses. Many European cities offer city passes that allow free or discounted entry to multiple sites. Additionally, some museums in Europe have specific days with free entry.

Key Takeaways for Europe travel costs

• Schengen visa fee €90 for adults, €45 for children aged 6-12, free for children under 6 as of June 2024.
• Not everyone needs a Schengen visa to enter the Schengen area for stays under 90 days.
• Prepare to pay for travel costs, accommodations, meals, and any activities.
• Travel costs vary greatly depending on your lifestyle, the city or cities you’re visiting, and the duration of your trip.
• For Schengen visas, travel insurance is mandatory for the entire duration of your trip. Make sure to factor this into your budget as well.
• There isn’t a fee to enter the Schengen area, but ETIAS (from 2025 on) or a visa will be required (and each of those has associated fees).
• Financial proof: To obtain a Schengen visa, you will need to show proof of financial means.
• Typically, accommodations and transportation will be the most expensive part of your trip to the Schengen zone (but not always, of course).