Traveling to Europe doesn’t have to strain your budget, thanks to a range of low-cost airlines offering affordable options across the continent. These carriers provide essential services at competitive prices, often with flexible route options and frequent departures. While amenities are limited, they cater well to travelers who prioritize cost and convenience over extras, making them ideal for short-haul or regional European trips.

1. Ryanair

Ryanair is Europe’s largest ultra‑low‑cost carrier, operating over 200 routes across 37 countries with base fares among the lowest in the market. While economy seating offers minimal legroom, the airline’s rapid turnaround and frequent service make it a common choice for budget‑conscious travelers.

Additional charges apply for extras such as seat selection, checked baggage & priority boarding. Many flights operate from secondary airports, which may require longer ground transfers.

Pros:

• Very low base fare

• Extensive European route network

• Frequent flight frequency

• Simple online booking

• Wide seasonal schedule

Cons:

• Charges for many extras

• Limited legroom in economy

• Secondary airports only

• Not included checked luggage

• Mixed customer service reviews

2. easyJet

easyJet is a budget airline operating from main airports across Europe, making transfers and onward travel easier. Based in London and other European hubs, its fares are modestly higher than Ryanair but with more straightforward airport access and fewer hidden fees.

The airline charges separately for checked luggage, seat selection, and refreshments. Customer feedback often highlights friendly cabin crew and clearer pricing.

Pros:

• Operates from main airports

• Reliable customer service

• Transparent pricing structure

• Extensive short‑haul network

• Moderate seat selection fees

Cons:

• Baggage charges extra

• Base fares higher than Ryanair

• Limited legroom

• Optional seat fee applies

• Occasional flight delays

3. Wizz Air

Wizz Air is a Hungary‑based low‑cost carrier with an especially strong presence in Eastern and Central Europe. It offers ultra‑budget fares regularly, although customers often report that flight cancellations or delays and customer support can be inconsistent.

Base fares include only a small personal item; other services like checked bags and seat reservations incur additional charges. Its rapid network expansion has made it one of the cheapest in Europe.

Pros:

• Very low average cost

• Large Eastern Europe footprint

• Frequent promotional pricing

• Fare‑hold Flex feature available

• Fast expanding network

Cons:

• Poor customer support

• Strict baggage policies

• Additional fee overload

• Limited seat space

• Reliability concerns occasionally

4. Vueling

Vueling, based in Spain, connects many Mediterranean and European cities with competitive low fares. The airline often provides good value on routes such as Barcelona to Rome or Madrid to Paris, especially during off‑peak travel periods.

While economy tickets are basic, optional extras like priority boarding or checked luggage can be added at booking. Their growing schedule is particularly convenient for travelers flying into Spain and nearby regions.

Pros:

• Good Mediterranean coverage

• Competitive pricing on routes

• Options for added extras

• Easy online manageability

• Spanish customer service support

Cons:

• Basic economy amenities

• Fees for baggage & seat

• Occasional schedule changes

• Smaller fleet than peers

• Limited long‑haul choices

5. Volotea

Volotea is a niche Spanish low‑cost airline focusing on regional routes between smaller European cities. It earned recognition as Europe’s leading low‑cost carrier for 2024 by the World Travel Awards, thanks to its competitive pricing and route focus.

The airline includes only a small under‑seat bag in base fares, with fees charged for cabin luggage or seat upgrades. It’s ideal for travelers wanting direct connections between secondary urban destinations.

Pros:

• Focused on underserved routes

• Affordable ticket pricing

• Recognized award winner

• Frequent small‑city connections

• Straightforward booking experience

Cons:

• Strict baggage allowance

• Basic onboard service

• Charges for priority boarding

• Limited major hub service

• Smaller fleet size