How we planned and selected our Europe accommodation

Finding the right accommodation starts with knowing your budget and how many nights you’ll need in each destination. Once that’s set, the type of stay you choose will depend on comfort, space, and how long you’ll be in one place.
For trips longer than two nights, we prefer a one‑ or two‑bedroom apartment. Having a sofa, dining table, and a kitchen makes a huge difference especially when you want the option to cook breakfast or the occasional dinner. The extra space simply makes longer stays more enjoyable.
Hotels work well for one‑ or two‑night stops, but anything longer can feel cramped and climbing walls unless you score a suite at a good price.
To find the best accommodation within our budget, we rely on a mix of platforms, each with its own strengths:

How We Choose Our Europe Accommodation

Airbnb

Airbnb is often the most cost‑effective option for multi‑night stays. Discounts increase the longer you stay, and filters make it easy to find places that match your budget. Prices also tend to be more stable than hotels during peak season.

Booking.com

Booking.com offers one of the largest ranges of accommodation — hotels, apartments, B&Bs, guesthouses, boutique stays, and even some Airbnbs. Many listings include free cancellation, which is ideal when plans aren’t fully locked in.

Stayz

Stayz is similar to Airbnb but focuses heavily on holiday homes and whole‑home rentals. It’s a great option for families or groups, though prices can be slightly higher depending on the location and property type.

CosyCosy

CosyCosy highlights comfortable, well‑designed, homely properties — perfect for couples or travellers on longer trips. It’s an alternative that shouldn’t be overlooked, especially if you value atmosphere and comfort.

For 30 days or more in one location, there are local real estates and other agents who will help look for your perfect accommodation.

Accommodation Checklist: What to Look For Before You Book

Use a checklist to quickly assess whether a property is right for your trip, your budget, and your comfort level. These are the exact criteria we use when choosing accommodation across Europe.

Free Cancellation

Look for free cancellation up to at least 3 weeks before check‑in.
Gives you flexibility if plans change.
Much easier than trying to claim through travel insurance later.

Location & Transport Access

If you’re not driving, choose a place close to the town centre or within walking distance of public transport (bus, tram, or train).
Europe’s metro and rail systems are excellent, and staying near a station makes exploring much easier.
Check walking distances on Google Maps

Heating or Air Conditioning

Always confirm whether the property has air conditioning for the summer or heating in the winter.
Many European buildings, especially older ones don’t have both.
We learned this the hard way in Lucerne, so now we always double‑check the listing.

Stairs vs Lifts

Older or historic buildings often don’t have lifts.
If you’re staying only one or two nights, carrying luggage up multiple flights can be a hassle.
For longer stays, or if every stop on your trip involves stairs, it becomes tiring fast.
Check the listing for “lift/elevator” before booking.

Space & Comfort - For stays longer than two nights, look for:

a sofa or couch in the room
a dining table and chairs
a kitchen or kitchenette
A one‑ or two‑bedroom apartment makes a huge difference on longer stays

Amenities That Matter

Depending on your travel style, consider checking for:

Washing machine
Wi‑Fi quality
Parking (if driving)
Workspace or desk
Balcony or outdoor area
Self check‑in
Noise level, read the reviews
Parking, only if you're driving

If you're staying in apartments you will definitely need a washing. We always made sure we had at least for days of clothes before we needed a washing machine. It was rare that we found a dryer in our accommodation as well.

Read the reviews.

Look for consistent comments about cleanliness, noise levels, heating or cooling, and host communication. Prioritise properties with plenty of recent reviews, and aim for places rated 8/10 or higher. It also helps to check reviews from the same month in previous years — this gives you a better sense of what the area is really like during your travel period, including any festivals, late‑night bars, or seasonal noise that might affect your stay.

FAQ: Accommodation in Europe

How far in advance should I book accommodation in Europe?

For major cities and peak season (June–August), booking as far out as you can, 9–6 months in advance gives you the best prices and availability. Shoulder‑season and off‑season stays can often be booked 6 months in advance.

Is it better to stay in hotels or apartments in Europe?

It depends on your travel style.

Hotels offer convenience, daily cleaning, and 24‑hour reception.
Apartments give you more space, a kitchen, and better value for longer stays.
Many travellers mix both depending on the city.

What is the best area to stay in a European city?

The best area is usually just outside the main tourist zone. You’ll be close to attractions and public transport but avoid the noise, crowds, and higher prices of the city centre.

How do I find affordable accommodation in Europe?

You can save money by:

booking early
staying slightly outside the centre
choosing apartments or guesthouses
avoiding peak summer months
comparing prices across multiple platforms

Are hostels safe and comfortable in Europe?

Yes. Modern hostels often offer private rooms, secure lockers, and social spaces. They’re a great option for budget travellers or anyone wanting a more social experience.

Is breakfast worth paying for in European hotels?

It depends on the hotel. Some offer excellent value, while others charge more than local cafés or bakeries. Compare the price — often you can eat better and cheaper outside.

Should I use Airbnb in Europe?

Airbnb can be great for longer stays or when you want a kitchen, but availability and regulations vary by city. Some cities restrict short‑term rentals, so always check local rules and reviews.

What should I look for when choosing accommodation?

Key things to check include:

location and public transport access
recent reviews
air‑conditioning (important in summer)
lift access if you have luggage
cancellation policies
kitchen or laundry facilities

Is it safe to book accommodation through third‑party websites?

Yes, but always read the cancellation policy carefully. Third‑party sites sometimes have stricter rules. If flexibility matters, booking directly with the hotel or apartment can be safer.

Do European hotels and Airbnb have hidden fees?

Most cities charge a tourist tax, usually paid at check‑in. It’s small but varies by destination. Always check whether breakfast, air‑conditioning, or city taxes are included in the price