Why Some European Airports Are Cheaper Than Others

A European trip can be super exciting, but those flight costs can be a major buzzkill, right? Ever wondered why some airports seem like a goldmine for cheap flights while others leave your wallet crying? It’s not just random chance; there’s actually a lot of strategy and economics at play. Let’s break down the secret sauce behind why certain of the cheapest Europe airports offer such incredible deals.

First off, the rise of low-cost carriers has completely transformed the way we travel. These budget airlines are all about cutting costs, and one way they do this is by operating from smaller, less busy airports that have lower landing fees and fewer operational expenses, and that is why you are able to get such cheap flights to Europe. These savings are then passed on to you, the savvy traveler.

The location of an airport also plays a big role. Airports located farther from major city centers, often in smaller towns or rural areas, tend to have lower demand, resulting in lower prices. However, these airports usually provide great and cost-effective connections to major tourist spots, so you are not losing anything.

Airport size and infrastructure also matter a lot. Smaller airports require less maintenance, which leads to lower operational costs. As you might guess, that makes these the cheapest airports to fly into Europe.

Finally, travel demand and seasonality can have a dramatic effect on the price of your plane ticket, so it’s up to you to decide if you want to travel in a more crowded but more accessible season or if you want to save money by traveling in the shoulder seasons or off-season periods, which will allow you to get cheap flights and accommodation without all the hustle. These factors combined create the perfect conditions for some airports to offer way more affordable flight options than others. By being smart about where you fly, you’re not just saving money; you’re unlocking a world of travel possibilities without breaking the bank.

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Unveiling the Top 10 Cheapest Europe Airports

Alright, you’ve got the “why,” now it’s time to dive into the “where.” Get ready to explore Europe on a dime with this list of the top 10 cheapest Europe airports, that will help you maximize your budget and make all your dreams come true.

Bergamo (BGY), Italy

First on the list is Bergamo Airport (BGY), located near Milan in Italy. This airport is known for being a hotspot for budget travelers and also for being the gateway to the beautiful Lombardy region.

The vibe here is a mix of industrial and Italian, with some of the best food in Europe at your fingertips. The airport code is BGY, and you’ll find that Ryanair operates a large number of flights from here. You can also find very cheap fares if you book in advance and travel off-peak. Getting to Milan from here is pretty easy and affordable, with buses that usually cost between €5 and €10. The airport is also very close to the picturesque town of Bergamo, which you should check out for yourself. If you’re planning an Italian trip on a budget, BGY is a great place to start.

Bergamo 5-day Itinerary (Made with PlaninGo AI)

Charleroi (CRL), Belgium

Dabbing itself as one of the cheapest Europe airports, next up is Charleroi Airport (CRL) in Belgium, a secondary airport serving the Brussels region. If you’re looking for the cheapest airports to fly into Europe, this one definitely needs to be on your list, and although it’s a bit further from the city center, its low-cost flights make it totally worth it.

The vibe here is all about efficiency and practicality, with a lot of travelers coming and going every day, trying to get the most out of their European vacation. The airport code is CRL, and Ryanair is the main airline you’ll find here, with tons of connections to other major European cities. You can catch a shuttle bus to Brussels for around €15 to €20, which is very affordable, or rent a car if you prefer.

Charleroi 3-day Itinerary (Made with PlaninGo AI)

Eindhoven (EIN), Netherlands

Eindhoven Airport (EIN) in the Netherlands is another great option for cheap flights into Europe.

Located in the southern part of the Netherlands, this airport is known for its modern design and streamlined operation, giving you a great first impression of the country. The airport code is EIN, and low-cost carriers such as Wizz Air and Ryanair often fly into this airport, making it a perfect option for budget travelers. The vibe here is pretty chill and laid-back, and it is quite close to Eindhoven’s city center, where you can find great restaurants and stores. You can catch a bus for around €5 to €8, or if you prefer, get a taxi or a ride-sharing app for a slightly higher price.

Eindhoven 3-day Itinerary (Made with PlaninGo AI)

Beauvais (BVA), France

If Paris is on your must-visit list, but your wallet is not cooperating, consider flying into Beauvais Airport (BVA) in France. Although it’s a bit further out from the city, this airport is a favorite of budget travelers because the fares are a lot lower than in the two main Parisian airports. The vibe around this airport is a mix of the French countryside and that feeling of wanderlust that fills up the soul when traveling to a new place. Its code is BVA, and you will mostly find Ryanair here. Transfers by bus to Paris city center will cost you around €15-€20.

Beauvais 3-day Itinerary (Made with PlaninGo AI)

Sofia (SOF), Bulgaria

For those looking to explore Eastern Europe, Sofia Airport (SOF) in Bulgaria is a perfect starting point. It’s not only one of the cheapest Europe airports but also offers access to a fascinating city with a very rich history and delicious food. The vibe around Sofia is a blend of old-world charm and modern energy.

The airport code is SOF, and you will find that both Wizz Air and Ryanair operate a lot of flights into this airport. The transfer to the city center is also extremely affordable. The metro will cost you just around €1 to €2, and there are bus options, too, if you prefer. The city has a great public transport system, so it is very easy to move around.

Sofia 3-day Itinerary (Made with PlaninGo AI)

Riga (RIX), Latvia

If you are in the mood to explore the Baltic region, Riga Airport (RIX) in Latvia should be on your list. This is a very modern and efficient airport with great connections to other major European hubs, and it is considered to be among the cheapest airports to fly into Europe . The vibe here is sleek and organized, and the airport code is RIX. Low-cost carriers such as Ryanair and Wizz Air fly to Riga, giving you great options. Transfers to the city center are also easy and affordable, with a bus costing about €2. Riga’s old town is a must-visit, and so are all the amazing museums and parks the city has to offer.

Riga 3-day Itinerary (Made with PlaninGo AI)

Budapest (BUD), Hungary

Budapest Airport (BUD) in Hungary is another extremely popular option for budget travelers. Budapest itself is a city full of history, thermal baths, and vibrant nightlife. The vibe here is elegant and historical, and you will notice that right away. Its airport code is BUD, and airlines such as Wizz Air and Ryanair are known to fly here at very affordable prices. The transfer options include a bus and a metro, and they usually cost between €3 to €5. Once you get to the city center, you can explore everything on foot, so prepare to do some cardio while enjoying all the amazing food!

Budapest 5-day Itinerary (Made with PlaninGo AI)

Warsaw Modlin (WMI), Poland

Warsaw Modlin Airport (WMI) in Poland offers another great gateway to explore the Polish territory. Although a secondary airport, it gives you great flight options at affordable prices, which is why you should definitely consider flying into this airport and why we’re convinced to include it in our list of the cheapest Europe airports.

The vibe here is efficient, and the airport code is WMI. Ryanair is the main low-cost carrier that flies here. The bus to the city center will cost you around €7-€8, or if you prefer a more private transfer, a taxi might be a better choice.

Warsaw 5-day Itinerary (Made with PlaninGo AI)

Porto (OPO), Portugal

Dreaming of a trip to Portugal? Porto Airport (OPO) is a good option for you to explore the country without draining your pockets. Porto is a beautiful city full of history, wineries, and amazing food, and flying there will be very easy on your wallet. The vibe is charming and very welcoming, and the airport code is OPO. Many airlines operate here, but the best deals are usually offered by Ryanair and EasyJet. The transfer to the city center is super easy with the metro for just €2-€3.

Porto 5-day Itinerary (Made with PlaninGo AI)

Malaga (AGP), Spain

Last but certainly not least, Malaga Airport (AGP) in Spain is a very solid option for a cheap flight to Europe. Located on the Costa del Sol, Malaga offers the perfect mix of beach life, city experiences, and Andalusian culture, all combined into one unique travel destination. The vibe here is a blend of relaxation and busy city life, and the airport code is AGP. Many low-cost airlines operate here, such as EasyJet and Ryanair. The bus or train transfer to the city center will cost you around €3 to €5, and there are many different options for you to pick.

Malaga 3-day Itinerary (Made with PlaninGo AI)

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Best Budget-Friendly Option

After analyzing all the factors and weighing all the options, one airport really stands out as the top budget-friendly option: Sofia Airport (SOF) in Bulgaria. Not only does it consistently offer the lowest average fares compared to other major European airports, but it also gives you access to an amazing Eastern European gem that’s filled with history and culture. The cost of living in Sofia is also remarkably lower than in other major European cities, which will allow you to enjoy your vacation without burning a hole in your wallet. The public transportation is also extremely affordable, which makes it the best all-around option for budget travelers looking for the best combination of great prices and unforgettable experiences.

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Conclusion

And there you have it – a detailed guide to the top 10 cheapest airports to fly into Europe. These airports not only offer affordable flights but also serve as gateways to some of the most diverse and exciting destinations in Europe. Remember, being flexible with your travel dates, booking in advance, and considering these budget-friendly airports can make your European dream vacation a reality without breaking the bank. To make the process easier and stress-free, let PlaninGo help you with all the planning and booking for an unforgettable vacation.

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FAQ – Your Questions Answered

Q: What is the cheapest month to fly to Europe?

The shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) are generally the cheapest times to fly to Europe as they offer a sweet spot with fewer crowds, better weather, and lower prices than the summer months.

Q: How can I find cheap flights to Europe?

To find the best deals, be flexible with your travel dates, consider flying on weekdays instead of weekends, book in advance, set up price alerts on flight comparison websites, and consider flying into the cheapest airports to fly into Europe.

Q: Are budget airlines safe to fly within Europe?

Absolutely! Budget airlines in Europe adhere to the same strict safety regulations as other major carriers, so you can rest assured that your flights are just as safe.

Q: What are some tips for saving money when traveling in Europe?

To maximize your budget, use public transport, eat local food, take advantage of free walking tours, and stay in hostels or budget hotels. Also, look for free activities and free museum days.

Q: How far in advance should I book flights to Europe?

To grab the best deals, it’s highly recommended to book flights to Europe at least 2 to 3 months in advance, as prices tend to go up closer to the travel date, so planning ahead is essential.

Q: Can PlaninGo help me find the cheapest Europe aiports?

Yes, just head on to our app or our web version and find out about our itinerary builder and its adjacent AI travel companion, which can help you find the best, most budget-conscious airports in Europe and also along the way.