9 CHEAPEST Airlines in Europe (2025): Low-Cost, Budget Carriers

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I’ve explored 40 countries across Europe and flown with all kinds of airlines to hunt down the best deals. After diving into 100 flight routes from 45 major airports, I’ve pulled together the 9 cheapest airlines in Europe for 2025. On this list, you’ll find budget favorites like Wizz Air, Ryanair, EasyJet, and a few more that keep travel costs low across popular European routes. Whether you’re planning a beach escape in the Mediterranean or exploring the Baltics, these airlines make it easy to travel Europe on a budget without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

#1 tip to find cheap flights in Europe

Looking for cheap airline tickets throughout Europe? Before diving into all the different low-cost airlines in Europe, I want to share a quick tip on how to save cash on airfare.

For the past 4 years, I’ve used Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going) to get amazing flight deals. Every week, they send insanely cheap flight deals directly to my inbox. And the best part? It’s 100% FREE!

All you do is enter your home airport and where you want to go, and they’ll send mistake fares and other super cheap flight deals to you. In 2024 alone, I saved $7k on flights, thanks to their email alerts. This includes $300 roundtrip fares from Boston to Europe and intra-European flights as low as $10. They offer a free and premium version – the free one is great and will meet most people’s needs! If you travel frequently like me, it’s worth upgrading to the paid version, which costs $49 per year. I recommend trying the free trial and if you find it valuable, use my special discount code (JON20) to save 20%!

1. 🇭🇺 Wizz Air

• 🏠 Base: Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD)
• ✈️ Best For: Ultra-low-cost travel across Eastern and Central Europe
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy only with WIZZ Priority option for extra benefits
• 🧳 Baggage Policy: Small personal item included; all other bags cost extra
• 💳 Loyalty Program: WIZZ Discount Club membership ($25/year)
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Join their “Fare Lock” program to hold attractive prices for 48 hours while finalizing travel plans

Wizz Air has grown from a tiny Hungarian startup to Europe’s fastest-growing budget airline, adding more new routes in 2024-2025 than any other European carrier while keeping fares incredibly low.

Connecting you to over 190 destinations in 50+ countries, these purple planes are basically your ticket to exploring Eastern Europe without destroying your bank account. They’ve basically made weekend trips to places like Bucharest and the Baltics actually affordable for budget travelers.

Their Airbus A320 and newer A321neo fleet is definitely no-frills. Legroom is tight, nothing comes free (yup! not even water), and you’ll pay for everything from seat selection to printing your boarding pass at the airport. But the trade-off comes in those amazingly cheap fares, often around $22-33 roundtrip during sales.

The smartest way to fly Wizz is getting WIZZ Priority, which already includes priority boarding, a small personal item, and a cabin bag. Their Discount Club membership quickly pays for itself if you fly more than once a year. 

What makes Wizz truly unique is their “Flex” fare option that allows unlimited flight changes up to 3 hours before departure, perfect for uncertain travel plans. They also offer a “Wizz Multi” pass that gives frequent travelers fixed-price tickets between specific cities for 1-6 months. For travelers who pack light and don’t mind basic service, Wizz makes exploring Eastern Europe incredibly affordable.

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2. 🇮🇪 Ryanair

• 🏠 Base: Dublin Airport (DUB)
• ✈️ Best For: Ultra-low-cost travel throughout Europe with extensive route network
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy only with extra legroom seats available
• 🧳 Baggage Policy: Small personal item included; all other bags cost extra
• 💳 Loyalty Program: “Ryanair Plus” subscription available
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book connecting “Ryanair Transfer” flights through their app to reach more destinations with protected connections

Ryanair carries more international passengers than any other airline in the world, with over 150 million travelers annually choosing their rock-bottom fares despite their reputation for strict rules and extra fees.

Love them or hate them, Ryanair gets you around Europe for less than the cost of a nice dinner. Flying over 225 destinations, those famous bright yellow cabins and non-reclining seats in their Boeing 737s aren’t exactly luxurious, but when tickets cost less than a good concert, who’s complaining?

The Ryanair game is all about avoiding their sneaky fees. Their base fares can be ridiculously cheap (like $15-25 roundtrip during sales), but they’ll charge you for literally everything else. The smartest move is getting their “Regular” fare bundle that includes priority boarding and two bags for about $25 extra. And whatever you do, don’t forget to check in online as that $20 airport boarding pass printing fee is no joke.

Their new “Transfer” flights feature has been a game-changer, allowing protected connections between flights with baggage transfer. Their mobile app has improved dramatically too, offering a smoother booking experience. For travelers willing to carefully read the fine print and play by their rules, Ryanair’s unmatched network makes European travel possible on almost any budget.

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3. 🇩🇪 Eurowings

• 🏠 Base: Düsseldorf Airport (DUS)
• ✈️ Best For: Budget travel with better service quality than ultra-low-cost carriers
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, BASIC Plus, SMART, BIZclass
• 🧳 Baggage Policy: Personal item included; carry-on included with SMART fares and higher
• 💳 Loyalty Program: Eurowings Boomerang Club and Miles & More integration
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Their last-minute “Blind Booking” offers incredibly cheap flights to surprise destinations, perfect for spontaneous travelers

Eurowings operates as Lufthansa’s budget arm but offers a surprisingly pleasant experience that sits between bare-bones budget carriers and traditional airlines.

Based in Germany with hubs in Düsseldorf and Stuttgart, Eurowings serves over 100 destinations across Europe. They’ve found their niche by offering better service than ultra-budget airlines while keeping competitive prices to both major cities and vacation spots.

Their Airbus planes don’t feel as cramped as other budget airlines, and you might actually get some sleep without your knees touching your chin. The fare options are genuinely useful: their BASIC fares compete with the ultra-budget guys at around $40-60 roundtrip, while SMART fares include a checked bag, seat pick, and actual drinks and snacks for about $30-40 more.

The coolest thing Eurowings offers is their “Blind Booking” feature. For around $66 roundtrip, they’ll fly you to a surprise destination based on themes you pick like “party” or “culture.” Their app doesn’t try to trick you with hidden fees, and their loyalty program actually gives you stuff worth having. For just a bit more cash than the absolute cheapest flights, you get an experience that won’t leave you needing a vacation from your vacation.

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4. 🇬🇧 EasyJet

• 🏠 Base: London Luton Airport (LTN)
• ✈️ Best For: Budget travel to primary airports with good service standards
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy only with extra legroom and front seats available
• 🧳 Baggage Policy: Personal item included; all other bags cost extra
• 💳 Loyalty Program: Flight Club membership by invitation only
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book their “Flexi” fares for peak travel times – they cost slightly more but include priority boarding, seat selection, and a checked bag

EasyJet was the first airline to completely eliminate paper tickets back in 1998, saving enough paper annually to cover the distance from London to New York and back 39 times while dramatically cutting costs passed on to budget travelers.

The bright orange pioneer makes European city-hopping actually affordable without sending you to random airfields in the middle of nowhere. Unlike most budget carriers, EasyJet flies to the main airports in most cities, so you’ll actually land close to where you want to be.

Their all-Airbus A320 family fleet won’t exactly blow your mind with luxury, but the standard 29-inch seat pitch gives your knees a fighting chance, especially compared to some of the torture chambers offered by ultra-budget rivals. No free snacks here, but their “Bistro” menu won’t completely destroy your wallet. Think $7 for a decent sandwich and $3.50 for coffee that’s actually drinkable.

The sweet spot with EasyJet is their bag policies and transparent pricing. Their standard fares run around $70-100 roundtrip, but watch for their seasonal sales when prices can drop to $40-50. Their ingenious “Hands Free” service lets you check your cabin bag at the counter for about $8, way cheaper than paying for a checked bag and perfect for avoiding the overhead bin hunger games. Their app works surprisingly well too, with a price predictor tool that helps you time your booking perfectly.

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5. 🇪🇸 Vueling

• 🏠 Base: Barcelona El Prat Airport (BCN)
• ✈️ Best For: Affordable travel around Spain and the Mediterranean
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy only with Space, Space Plus, and Excellence options
• 🧳 Baggage Policy: Personal item included; checked bags available for purchase
• 💳 Loyalty Program: Vueling Club with Avios points (shared with British Airways and Iberia)
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Their “Timeflex” fare option allows same-day flight changes without fees, perfect for flexible travel plans

Vueling started as a tiny four-plane operation and now carries over 30 million passengers annually, growing into Spain’s largest low-cost carrier while developing a reputation for better service than most budget airlines.

Based in sunny Barcelona (BCN), their route map is perfect for sun-seekers, linking major European cities with vacation hotspots like the Balearic Islands, Canary Islands, and Greek Islands with roundtrip fares typically around $80-120.

Their Airbus A320 and A321 fleet feels fresher than most budget carriers, with slim leather seats and a trendy, modern cabin design. Their standard seats offer decent 29-30 inch pitch, and their “Excellence” seats up front actually give you the middle seat blocked for extra space. Their onboard menu features Spanish touches like decent tapas and sangria, a nice change from the usual sad sandwiches.

What makes Vueling stand out is their balance between price and service. Their basic fares compete with ultra-budget carriers at around $60-80 roundtrip, but the experience feels more premium. Can’t make up your mind where to go? Vueling’s Timeflex tickets cost about $40 more but allow unlimited same-day changes!

Plus, their Avios loyalty program is shared with British Airways and Iberia, meaning points earned on cheap Vueling flights can be used for long-haul premium flights with their partner airlines. 

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6. 🇳🇱 Transavia

• 🏠 Base: Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS)
• ✈️ Best For: Budget travel to Mediterranean vacation destinations
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy only with Plus and Max fare options
• 🧳 Baggage Policy: Personal item included; checked bags available for purchase
• 💳 Loyalty Program: None, but partners with Air France-KLM Flying Blue
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book their “shoulder season” deals to popular Mediterranean beaches in May or September for prices up to 40% lower than summer rates

Transavia operates as the budget arm of Air France-KLM, carrying over 10 million passengers annually with a focus on sunny vacation spots that’s earned them the nickname “the Dutch sunshine airline.”

Flying from Amsterdam, Paris, and Rotterdam, Transavia connects to over 100 destinations with a serious focus on affordable beach access. Their route map covers all the Mediterranean hotspots like Mallorca, Ibiza, Crete, and the Algarve with roundtrip fares typically between $80-120.

Their Boeing 737 seats give you 30 inches of legroom, which is actually decent for a budget airline. Unlike other carriers with strict bag size rules, Transavia gives you a 15kg weight limit that you can split between multiple bags however you want. They offer three simple fare types: Basic (just the seat), Basic+ (adds seat selection and priority boarding for $20), and Max (includes a 23kg checked bag and ticket flexibility for $45).

The real trick with Transavia is timing. Their “Early Bird” sales happen 6 months before summer, dropping prices by 20-30%. Their May and September flights to beach destinations cost up to 40% less than July dates but often have better weather than peak summer. Their “Last Minute Deals” section on their website often features roundtrips from Amsterdam to places like Lisbon or Barcelona for as little as $70. 

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7. 🇳🇴 Norwegian Air

• 🏠 Base: Oslo Gardermoen Airport (OSL)
• ✈️ Best For: Affordable medium-haul flights with better onboard amenities
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy and Premium (on some routes)
• 🧳 Baggage Policy: Personal item included; all other bags cost extra
• 💳 Loyalty Program: Norwegian Reward with CashPoints
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Join their free Rewards program even for one-time flights – you’ll get access to exclusive “Reward Flight” sales not available to non-members

Norwegian Air pioneered affordable long-haul flying in Europe before restructuring as a primarily short/medium-haul carrier, retaining their reputation for better comfort while offering competitive pricing across their network.

Based in Oslo with focus cities in Stockholm, Copenhagen, and Barcelona, Norwegian serves 80+ destinations across Europe, with a strong network throughout Scandinavia and the Mediterranean. Their famous red-nosed planes have become a common sight at airports across the continent.

Their newer Boeing 737 MAX fleet features free WiFi on many flights (a rarity among European budget carriers), modern interiors, and slim seats that actually recline. The experience feels noticeably more premium than other budget airlines, with actual legroom and friendly Scandinavian service.

Norwegian’s pricing sits slightly higher than the absolute cheapest carriers, with standard fares around $100-150 roundtrip, but the value proposition is strong. Their loyalty program is actually worth using – CashPoints accumulate quickly and can be applied to any flight with no blackout dates. Their app works well, and they don’t play the hidden fee game as aggressively as some competitors.

While no longer the ultra-disruptor they once were, Norwegian still delivers one of the most comfortable budget experiences in European skies. For travelers willing to pay a bit more than rock-bottom prices for noticeably better comfort and service, Norwegian strikes an excellent balance between affordability and a civilized flying experience.

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8. 🇬🇧 Jet2.com

• 🏠 Base: Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA)
• ✈️ Best For: Budget package holidays and flights from Northern UK to Mediterranean destinations
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy only with extra legroom seats available
• 🧳 Baggage Policy: Personal item included; generous 10kg hand luggage allowance
• 💳 Loyalty Program: myJet2 loyalty program
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Check their package deals that bundle flights and hotels, they’re often cheaper than booking separately, even if you’re primarily interested in just the flight

Jet2.com has grown from a small regional carrier into Britain’s third-largest airline, winning numerous customer service awards while maintaining budget pricing that’s made them especially popular with families and older travelers.

Flying from 11 UK airports including Manchester, Birmingham, and London Stansted, Jet2 connects Brits to sunny spots across Spain, Greece, and Turkey. Unlike most budget airlines, they schedule flights at times humans actually want to travel, not crack-of-dawn departures or midnight arrivals.

Their Boeing 737 and Airbus A321neo planes give you a decent 30-inch legroom and surprisingly friendly service. The 10kg hand luggage allowance is way more generous than Ryanair or easyJet, letting many travelers skip checked bag fees completely. They even give you free water on board, practically unheard of in budget flying.

Jet2 focuses on customer happiness rather than squeezing every penny from you. Fares run around $120-180 roundtrip, a bit higher than ultra-budget carriers but include assigned seats and reasonable bag allowances. Their vacation packages often beat flight-only fares once you add accommodation costs. For families who value a less stressful journey over absolute rock-bottom prices, Jet2 hits a sweet spot between budget pain and traditional comfort.

9. 🇱🇻 AirBaltic

• 🏠 Base: Riga International Airport (RIX)
• ✈️ Best For: Affordable connections between Western Europe and the Baltics/Eastern Europe
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy and Business
• 🧳 Baggage Policy: Personal item included; all other bags cost extra
• 💳 Loyalty Program: PINS loyalty program
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Their “Green” fare bundles basic amenities at a discount and supports sustainable aviation fuel

AirBaltic operates the world’s largest fleet of Airbus A220 aircraft, creating one of the most modern and fuel-efficient budget airlines while serving as Latvia’s de facto national carrier.

Based in Riga with additional hubs in Tallinn and Vilnius, airBaltic links 70+ destinations across Europe, making them perfect for affordable trips to Eastern Europe, Scandinavia, and beyond. Their location at the crossroads of Europe creates unique routing options other budget carriers don’t offer.

Their all Airbus A220-300 fleet gives you one of the best budget flying experiences around. Wider seats, bigger windows, and quieter engines make a real difference on longer flights. The 2-3 seating layout means fewer dreaded middle seats than typical budget planes.

They’ve found this clever middle ground between cheap and comfortable. Basic fares start around $80-120 roundtrip, competitive with other budget carriers. Their “Green” fare includes a checked bag and seat selection while supporting sustainable fuel initiatives. For exploring Northern and Eastern Europe without breaking the bank, or reaching less-served cities in the region, airBaltic offers a surprisingly nice experience at prices that won’t make you wince. The efficient Baltic approach to service means things generally run on time too.

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Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the cheapest airlines in Europe

Here are some common questions and answers about the best budget airlines in Europe.

How to find cheapest flights around Europe?

Want to score the best travel deal for Europe? Whether you’re looking to fly business class or economy, here are some tips to help you navigate the airfare options:

1. Use search engines and apps like Skyscanner, Google Flights, or Kayak to compare prices across multiple airlines.
2. Be flexible with your travel dates and times as fares can vary widely depending on when you fly.
3. Consider flying into secondary airports, which may be cheaper than the main ones.
4. Look for budget airlines like Ryanair or EasyJet, which offer low fares but may charge extra for baggage or other services.
5. Sign up for airline newsletters and follow them on social media to stay up-to-date on promotions and discounts.

Low cost European airlines are not hard to come by. As such, I recommend signing up for Scott’s Cheap Flights to find the best ones.

Who is the largest low-cost airline in Europe?

The largest low-cost airline in Europe is Ryanair. They’re like the Walmart of the skies, always offering great deals and discounts on flights! They fly all over Europe, so if you’re looking to jet off on a budget, Ryanair should definitely be at the top of your list. Just make sure you bring your own snacks, because they’re not known for their complimentary peanuts.

Who is the safest low-cost airline in Europe?

When it comes to low-cost airlines in Europe, safety is the name of the game. And the winner of that game is none other than the Finnish airline, Finnair. They’re like the Switzerland of the skies, neutral and always safe. Finnair has a great safety record and is known for their punctuality and reliability. So if you’re looking for a budget-friendly airline that won’t skimp on safety, Finnair is the way to go.

It’s the airline that will make you feel like you’re flying in a Nordic fairytale, with comfort, safety and a touch of magic!

What is Europe’s #1 airline?

When it comes to European aviation, there is one airline that reigns supreme: Lufthansa. This German carrier is the epitome of sophistication and class. From their sleek and modern fleet to their impeccable service, Lufthansa sets the standard for excellence in the airline industry. They’re like the Mercedes-Benz of the skies, sleek, efficient and luxurious.

With a vast network of destinations and premium services such as First Class and Business Class, Lufthansa caters to the discerning traveler looking for the ultimate flying experience. And with a strong emphasis on safety and punctuality, you can trust that your journey with Lufthansa will be nothing short of first-class.

What are the best budget airlines for short-haul flights in Europe?

For short-haul flights, you can’t go wrong with EasyJet and Wizz Air. They’re like the convenience store of the skies, always there when you need them and offering great prices. Both airlines have a wide network of destinations. So, you can fly to most places in Europe without breaking the bank.

Is Lufthansa a low-cost airline?

Lufthansa, a low-cost airline? Hahaha, that’s a good one!

Lufthansa is like the caviar of the skies, it’s fancy and refined, not exactly something you would associate with low-cost options. They’re more like the fancy dinner at a 5-star restaurant. They offer premium services such as First Class and Business Class, with a vast network of destinations, and impeccable service. Low-cost airlines in Europe are like a fast food burger, it’s cheap, it’s quick but it’s not exactly fancy.

So, no, Lufthansa is not a low-cost airline, but it’s definitely worth splurging on if you want a luxurious flying experience. And don’t worry, they won’t charge you extra for the complimentary bag of peanuts, just the caviar!

Which is better Iberia or Air Europa?

Iberia and Air Europa are both solid choices for European travel, but they each have their own unique perks. Iberia is known for its excellent service and comfortable seating. Air Europa offers more budget-friendly options with decent legroom and in-flight entertainment. It’s like comparing apples and oranges, both are delicious but have different characteristics.

So, it really depends on what you’re looking for in a flight. If you’re after luxury and comfort, Iberia is your best bet. However, if you’re looking to save some money and don’t mind sacrificing a few extras, Air Europa might be the way to go.

What day is cheapest to fly to Europe?

The cheapest day to fly to Europe varies depending on the airline and route, but generally, midweek flights tend to be less expensive than weekend ones. Tuesdays and Wednesdays are often the cheapest days to fly, especially on European budget airlines.

Is Air Europa a low cost airline in Europe?

Air Europa is a bit of a tricky one. It’s not exactly a low-cost airline, but it’s not a full-fledged traditional carrier either. Think of it like the Goldilocks of the skies, it’s just right. They offer more amenities than your typical budget airline, but they’re not quite as fancy as the big boys like Lufthansa or British Airways.

You can expect things like in-flight entertainment and decent legroom, but you’ll likely have to pay extra for things like baggage and seat selection. So, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option with a few extra perks, Air Europa might be just what you’re looking for. It’s the perfect balance for those who want to save some money but still want a little comfort on their trip.

Which is the cheapest budget airline in Europe?

Oh, that’s a tough one! There are so many budget airlines in Europe, it’s like trying to pick the best ice cream flavor. But if we had to pick just one, Ryanair would probably be the cheapest of the cheap. They’re like the dollar store of the skies, always offering incredible deals and discounts.

Are European low-cost airlines safe?

Absolutely! Safety is a top priority for all airlines, including European budget airlines. So, don’t worry, you’re in good hands. It’s like taking a ride with a trusted friend, they may not be fancy but they’ll get you there safely.

What are the best budget airlines for long-haul flights in Europe?

For long-haul flights, Norwegian Air and LEVEL are great options. This is especially true if you’re flying to Europe from the US. They’re like the hybrid car of the skies, they save you money on fuel but still get you where you need to go quickly. Both airlines offer comfortable seating, in-flight entertainment and great prices for long-haul flights.

What are some cheap airlines to Europe?

If you’re looking for low cost airlines to Europe, you’re in luck! There are several budget airlines that offer flights to and from Europe at competitive prices. Here are a few worth considering:

1. Ryanair – an Irish airline known for its low fares and extensive route network across Europe.
2. easyJet – a British airline that operates flights to over 130 destinations across Europe and North Africa.
3. Wizz Air – a Hungarian airline that offers flights to over 150 destinations in Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa.
4. Norwegian Air – a Norwegian airline that offers low-cost flights to over 150 destinations worldwide.
5. Vueling – a Spanish airline that operates flights to over 130 destinations in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.

It’s worth noting that while these budget airlines Europe may offer low fares, they often charge extra for other services. This includes checked baggage, seat selection, and in-flight meals.

Can I bring my own food on budget airlines of Europe?

Yes, you can! Just make sure to check the airline’s specific rules and regulations. But most budget airlines don’t offer complimentary meals, so it’s always a good idea to bring your own snacks. Just like a pic-nic, bring your own food and enjoy the ride!

Which European airline is cheapest for international travel?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the cheapest airline for international travel can vary depending on the route, time of year, and other factors. However, some cheap European airlines that offer affordable international flights to and from Europe include Ryanair, easyJet, and Norwegian Air.