Is a rail pass worth it?

Usually no for a two-week trip. Point-to-point tickets bought in advance are almost always cheaper.

How do I save on food?

Eat your main meal at lunch (many places have 'menu del dia' or lunch specials) and hit grocery stores like Lidl or Billa for dinner supplies.

Planning Your First Two-Week Trip to Europe on a Budget

Focus on three cities maximum using regional trains and budget airlines to keep transit costs down. Stick to Central and Eastern Europe to stretch your daily budget significantly further than in the West.

Select your route. Pick three cities with good rail connections. For a budget-friendly first trip, choose the 'Imperial Triangle': Prague, Vienna, and Budapest. These are close together and highly affordable.
Book flights strategically. Use an 'open-jaw' ticket (multi-city). Fly into your first city and out of your last. This prevents you from wasting time and money backtracking to your arrival airport.
Map your transit. Download the Omio or Trainline app. Book train tickets 8–12 weeks in advance to save up to 60% compared to buying at the station.
Prioritize free activities. Every major European city offers free walking tours (tip 5–10 euros) and free museum entry days. Search '[City Name] free museums' before you leave.

Is a rail pass worth it?: Usually no for a two-week trip. Point-to-point tickets bought in advance are almost always cheaper.
How do I save on food?: Eat your main meal at lunch (many places have 'menu del dia' or lunch specials) and hit grocery stores like Lidl or Billa for dinner supplies.