Traveling through Europe doesn’t have to be expensive. Many of the continent’s most iconic landmarks, cultural events, and natural wonders can be experienced for free. From world-class museums to breathtaking hikes and historic city centers, budget-conscious travelers can explore Europe without spending a fortune.
In this guide, discover some of the best free things to do in Europe in 2025, including festivals, museums, walking tours, and stunning viewpoints. Whether you're visiting London, Barcelona, Berlin, or Amsterdam, these budget-friendly experiences offer unforgettable adventures without breaking the bank.
Want more tips? Check out our backpacker’s guide to Europe ...
1. Party Up at Notting Hill Carnival - London, UK
London’s largest street festival, Notting Hill Carnival, is a vibrant celebration of Caribbean culture, music, and food. Held annually in August, the streets of West London transform into a massive party with parades, steel bands, and dance performances.
Notting Hill Carnival 2025 Dates:
Saturday, 23 August 2025 – Steel Band Competition (Ticketed Event)
Sunday, 24 August 2025 – Family Day (Free Entry)
Monday, 25 August 2025 – Adults' Day Parade (Free Entry)
For more details, visit the official Notting Hill Carnival website .
How to get there: Take the London Underground to Notting Hill Gate, Ladbroke Grove, or Westbourne Park stations
2. Hike to Montserrat Monastery – Barcelona, Spain
One of Catalonia’s most stunning landmarks, the Montserrat Monastery sits atop a rugged mountain range offering spectacular views. While the rack railway and cable car to the top are paid, travelers can hike up for free.
Highlights:
Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey – A historic Benedictine monastery with religious significance.
Scenic hiking trails – Free access to breathtaking mountain paths.
For visitor information, check the Montserrat official site.
How to get there for free: Take the R5 train from Plaça d’Espanya (paid), then hike up instead of using transport.
3. Explore Luxembourg Gardens – Paris, France
Located in the heart of Paris, Jardin du Luxembourg is one of the city’s most picturesque parks. Designed in French and English garden styles, it’s a perfect escape from the bustling streets.
Don’t Miss:
The Medici Fountain – A stunning 17th-century water feature.
Luxembourg Palace – The historic seat of the French Senate.
How to get there: The nearest Metro stations are Odéon, Mabillon, and Notre-Dame-des-Champs.
4. Discover the East Side Gallery – Berlin, Germany
Berlin’s East Side Gallery is the world’s longest open-air art exhibition. This 1.3km stretch of the Berlin Wall features murals painted by international artists, symbolizing the city’s past and Germany’s reunification.
Must-See Murals:
‘The Kiss’ by Dmitri Vrubel – One of the most famous political murals.
‘Test the Best’ by Birgit Kinder – A Trabant car breaking through the wall.
How to get there: Take the S-Bahn to Ostbahnhof station.
5. Visit The British Museum – London, UK
One of the world’s greatest museums, The British Museum offers free entry to its vast collection of artefacts from across human history.
Top Exhibits:
The Rosetta Stone – Key to deciphering Egyptian hieroglyphs.
The Parthenon Sculptures – Iconic relics from Ancient Greece.
For updates, visit the British Museum official website .
6. Take a Free Ferry to NDSM Wharf – Amsterdam, Netherlands
For a free cultural experience in Amsterdam, hop on a ferry to NDSM Wharf, a trendy artistic district filled with street art, cafes, and creative spaces.
Highlights:
Live music and events at Pllek – A popular waterfront venue.
Street art and exhibitions – Showcasing local and international artists.
Check out Pllek's website for events.
7. Join a Free Walking Tour – Vienna, Austria
Vienna is one of Europe’s most walkable cities, and free walking tours provide an excellent introduction to its imperial history and stunning architecture.
Tours usually start at Stephansplatz and cover highlights like St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Hofburg Palace, and the Vienna Opera House.
For tour schedules, visit New Europe Tours .
8. Experience Free Flamenco Shows – Seville, Spain
Seville is the heart of Flamenco, and travelers can enjoy authentic free performances at select venues. La Carbonería is one of the best places to catch a show.
For details, visit La Carbonería's blog .
9. Explore Bruges’ Historic Centre – Belgium
Bruges is a UNESCO-listed medieval city with cobbled streets, charming canals, and gothic architecture.
Top Attractions:
Market Square – Home to Bruges’ famous Belfry Tower.
Burg Square – Featuring the Basilica of the Holy Blood.
10. Hike Arthur’s Seat – Edinburgh, Scotland
For panoramic views of Edinburgh, hike up Arthur’s Seat, an ancient volcano in Holyrood Park. The short but scenic hike offers stunning cityscapes and a taste of Scotland’s rugged beauty.
11. Visit Catedral de Barcelona – Spain
Located in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter, Catedral de Barcelona is free to enter during specific hours.
Opening Hours for Free Entry:
8:30 am – 12:30 pm
5:45 pm – 7:30 pm
12. Take a Free Harry Potter Tour – Edinburgh, Scotland
Fans of J.K. Rowling’s magical world can join a free walking tour of Edinburgh’s Harry Potter locations.
The Potter Trail takes visitors to inspirational sites like Victoria Street, Greyfriars Kirkyard, and The Elephant House café.
Visit Potter Trail to book in advance.
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