1. Start Your Night with a Shop-Bought Round

In most European countries, you can legally drink in public, so there’s no shame in starting your evening with a few drinks bought from a supermarket or corner shop. In cities like Budapest, Berlin, or Kraków, it’s completely normal to see locals enjoying a bottle of beer or a can of cider in a park, by the river, or on the steps of a public square.

Not only is this more sociable than overpriced bars, but it can save you £20–£30 a night depending on how many drinks you usually order. Stick with local brands for even bigger savings, for example, a can of Feldschlösschen in Switzerland will cost you 2 CHF in a shop compared to 8–10 CHF in a bar. Same drink, massively different price.

2. Look for Happy Hours - and Know When They Start

Happy hours are your best friend when it comes to drinking out on a budget. The trick is to know when they start, as they often run early (around 5pm–7pm), particularly in major cities. Some bars also offer mid-week deals, 2-for-1 cocktails, or discount pitchers if you're in a group.

Do a bit of research ahead of time or ask at your hostel, you’ll usually find that the best bars for deals aren’t the ones on the main square, but a few streets away. At Jarv Tours, we always recommend accommodation close to local hotspots rather than tourist traps, so you’re more likely to find affordable places to drink and eat.

3. Embrace the Local Drink

Every country has its own go-to budget drink. In Spain, it’s tinto de verano (a mix of red wine and lemonade); in Germany, you’ll find plenty of beer varieties under €3 a glass; and in Eastern Europe, shots of local spirits like slivovitz or rakija are popular and inexpensive.

By ordering what locals drink, not only do you save money, but you get a more authentic experience. Skip the fancy imported craft beers or cocktails and go for what’s popular at the bar, you’ll often be pleasantly surprised.

4. Avoid the Tourist Zone

The closer you are to a major attraction, the more you’ll pay. It's not unusual for drinks to be twice as expensive in the old town compared to bars just ten minutes down the road. If you’re travelling with Jarv Tours, we’ll help you find areas that offer the same atmosphere (or better) without the inflated prices.

Neighbourhoods like Kreuzberg in Berlin, Leith in Edinburgh, or Praga in Warsaw are great examples, buzzing with bars, full of locals, and friendly on the wallet.

5. Pre-Game at Your Hostel or Airbnb

If you’re staying somewhere with a kitchen or common area, start the night there. Grab a few local drinks, meet fellow travellers, and save your money for when it really matters, like entry to a live music venue or a proper cocktail when you get to the bar.

Many hostels also host cheap bar crawls or social events, often including a drink or two in the price. Even if you're not staying at one, you can usually tag along, just ask at the front desk. At Jarv Tours, we can recommend great hostels with an active social scene that helps you enjoy nights out without breaking the budget.

6. Skip the Cover Charge

In cities like Amsterdam or Barcelona, some bars and clubs charge an entry fee, often €10–€20 - even if you’re just going for a drink. Look for bars that offer free entry, or head to venues earlier in the night when entry is often waived.

Smaller bars with live music or DJ sets can be just as fun as a big club, and you won’t feel like you’re paying for the privilege to spend more money inside.

7. Use Local Apps and Discount Cards

Some cities offer nightlife discount cards or apps that give you free entry, drinks deals, or even bar crawl access. For example, Lisbon’s “Lisboa Card” includes discounts on nightlife as well as museums and transport.

Before you travel, check if there’s something similar available, or better yet, let Jarv Tours handle that for you. When we build your itinerary, we can include local tips, apps, and discounts so you’re never overpaying for a good time.

8. Don’t Be Afraid to Call It Early

Here’s a secret: the best nights often end before midnight. Especially if you're up early sightseeing the next day or catching a train to the next city. Enjoy a few well-earned drinks without turning the evening into a 3am money pit. You’ll save money, feel better in the morning, and probably remember more of the fun.

Cheers to Smarter Nights Out

Enjoying a great night out doesn’t mean you have to drain your holiday budget. With a bit of planning, some smart decisions, and a willingness to try local favourites, you can drink well, socialise more, and wake up richer for it, both in memories and in cash.

Jarv Tours is here to help you find the right balance between fun and frugal. Whether you're planning a weekend of football and beer in Germany or a wine-fuelled escape to southern Spain, we’ll help you make it affordable, enjoyable, and completely hassle-free.

Get in touch to start planning your next budget-friendly night out, and everything around it.