How to Get Cheap Airfare to Europe

With so much history, culture and recreation available, Europe beckons many travelers---whether it is a "backpacking Europe" escapade or a vacation with high-class hotel stays and dining. No matter which trip you are planning, airfare can be expensive. There are, however, ways to fly to Europe on a budget. By focusing on several areas of your trip, including location, timing and research resources available to you, the overall cost of the trip can be greatly reduced.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Research, Research, Research

Step 1

The largest international airports---in London, Paris, Frankfurt and Amsterdam---are the major airport hubs that offer the most flights and therefore will contain the best deals. Almost every country or city in Europe will then be easily accessible with local flights, trains or buses.

Step 2

Focus your price research on the major hub airports. Here are some great links for cheap flights to each:

London Heathrow Airport: http://airfare.bootsnall.com/cheap-flights-to-london.html
Charles de Gaulle International Airport (Paris): http://airfare.bootsnall.com/cheap-flights-to-paris.html
Frankfurt International Airport: http://airfare.bootsnall.com/cheap-flights-to-frankfurt.html
Schiphol Airport (Amsterdam): http://airfare.bootsnall.com/cheap-flights-to-amsterdam.html

Step 3

Research different seasons. If lower cost is more important than perfect weather, you will be able to find much cheaper flights in off-peak seasons. Remember that many Europeans are on vacation in August, which not only makes places more crowded but can increase the price of any additional flight/train/bus ticket you will need to buy. Being flexible on your departure days can result in savings.

Step 4

Try working with a travel agent who may be able to consolidate all hotel and related travel plans you will need and get a much better price. It can also be easier for agents to do a lot of the grunt work in finding different times of the day to plan a flight---for example, flying early in the morning or late at night can offer significant discounts.

Step 5

Finally, consider flying "open jaw," meaning setting your arrival and departing flights in different cities. Some airports charge different fees for arrivals/departures.

Article Written By Contributing Writer

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