Planning a 2-week Europe trip on a tight budget – where to start?

I’m currently in the early stages of planning a two-week trip to Europe for next summer, but I’m worried about costs spiraling out of control. I want to hit a few major cities without breaking the bank, so I'm looking for advice on affordable regions, budget-friendly transport between countries, and tips for saving on accommodation. Does anyone have experience with itinerary planning that balances sightseeing with a strict daily spending limit?

Start by looking at Eastern Europe. Countries like Poland, Hungary, and Romania are incredibly budget-friendly compared to Western Europe, and you can easily spend two weeks there without feeling like you're pinching pennies.

Use the 'Omio' or 'Rome2Rio' apps to compare buses versus trains. FlixBus is almost always the cheapest way to travel between major cities, even if it takes a bit longer than a high-speed train.

Hostels are your best friend. Look for ones with kitchen access so you can cook at least one meal a day. Eating out for every meal in Europe will destroy your budget within three days.

Don't try to see too many cities. Every time you move, you pay for transport. Pick three base cities and do day trips to smaller towns nearby; it saves a ton on luggage storage and transit costs.

Consider 'Free Walking Tours' in every city. They are tip-based, usually very informative, and help you get your bearings without paying for expensive guided excursions.

Book your regional trains or buses as far in advance as possible. Prices for things like the OBB or Trenitalia usually skyrocket if you wait until the week of your trip.

Check out the 'Too Good To Go' app. It allows you to buy surplus food from restaurants and bakeries at the end of the day for a fraction of the original price. It's a lifesaver for budget travelers.

Avoid major tourist traps for lunch. If a restaurant has a menu in five languages with photos of the food outside, keep walking. Find where the locals eat a few blocks away from the main square.

If you're traveling in the summer, focus on the Balkans. It’s stunning, the food is cheap, and your dollar goes significantly further there than in London, Paris, or Rome.