Dreaming of strolling through the cobblestone streets of Rome, marvelling at the grandeur of the Eiffel Tower in Paris or immersing yourself in the vibrant culture of Barcelona?

Beautiful Europe beckons this winter, but the cost of flights is deterring people from booking flights and living out their European dreams.

Cruisers have been hard hit by Europe’s sky high air prices, with travel advisers describing the shortage of reasonably priced flights as the number one roadblock to taking journeys overseas.

Here’s how to fly to Europe from Australia for half the price, by opting for less common flight routes or longer stopovers.

You can embark on an affordable European adventure after all.

Rome

When it comes to reaching the eternal city of Rome, direct flights from Australia can be pricey – the quickest route from Sydney with Emirates will set you back around $3900 return.

However, add a 15-hour layover in Dubai with Emirates and you’ll only pay $2900. Not only will you save on costs, but you’ll also have the opportunity to explore the dynamic city of Dubai during your layover. Immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, and enjoy panoramic views from its observation deck. Indulge in a desert safari adventure, where you can experience dune bashing, camel riding and traditional Arabic entertainment for a glimpse into the fascinating desert culture.

Barcelona

Embrace the charm of Barcelona, an all-night city that blends history, art and vibrant street life. Again, Emirates will get you there fastest, with only one short layover – but it will cost you $4620.

To get there at a fraction of the cost, consider booking a flight with Korean Air. Departing Sydney, you can opt for an 18-hour layover in the thrilling city of Seoul. The enchanting Korean capital offers a captivating mix of modernity, tradition and culture. During a layover in Seoul, make sure to visit the iconic Gyeongbokgung Palace, explore the vibrant streets of Myeongdong for shopping and street food, and immerse yourself in the modern atmosphere of Gangnam district. As well as a bonus day in Seoul, you’ll also save yourself a bit of money, with return flights costing just $2880.

Paris

Ah, the City of Lights. Paris is where romance, culture and history intertwine. But it’s not a cheap place to get to from Australia. Air France will fly you there from Sydney with a short stop in Singapore for $4180 return, or consider taking the long way round with the French national carrier. Flying via LAX, with a similarly short stopover will cost you just $2730. You’ll spend more time in the air, but you’ll save yourself a chunk of money to spend on croissants and berets at your destination.

Amsterdam

If you’re among those yearning to wander the picturesque canals of Amsterdam, you’ll find the fastest way to get there is with Emirates. You’ll have a single stop in each direction, just long enough to change planes, but the efficiency will cost you $4690.

However, opt to fly with China Southern and you’ll pay just $2320. Sure, China Southern isn’t quite as luxe as Emirates, but you’ll get a 15 hour layover in Guangzhou in one direction. Famous for having some of the best food in China, this city offers markets, outlet shopping and river ferry rides. Don’t miss Shamian Island, full of historic buildings and tree lined streets from the European colonial era. Plus, your airfare will be half the price.

London

Discover the vibrant cosmopolitan melting pot that is London, while enjoying substantial savings on your airfare. British Airways will whip you to the English capital in just 23 hours, with a plane change in Singapore, but you’ll shell out $4640 for the privilege.

Or, for an astonishingly low $1700, you could fly China Southern and take a layover in Guangzhou. Take the opportunity to visit the awe-inspiring Canton Tower, offering breathtaking views of the city, and indulge in a shopping spree at the bustling Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street, known for its vibrant markets and traditional architecture. Eat as much dim sim as you can, and you’ll still have plenty of change leftover to spend when you get to London (and you’ll need it!).

Frankfurt

If you’re heading to the financial hub of Frankfurt in Germany, Cathay Pacific will get you there quickly with a single, efficient plane change in Hong Kong. For that direct route, you’ll pay $4230, which takes a chunk out of your holiday budget.

Alternatively, fly Air India and enjoy a bonus 20 hours in New Delhi. During a layover in New Delhi, you can delve into the city’s rich history by visiting the magnificent Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and marvel at the architectural beauty of the Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India. Experience the vibrant chaos of Chandni Chowk, a bustling market of traditional bazaars. And with that route costing just $2870 return, you can splash out on plenty of delicious street food while you’re there.

Travelling from Australia to Europe doesn’t have to drain your bank account. By choosing alternative routes and embracing longer stopovers, you can unlock affordable European adventures and explore exciting cities along the way.

So, ready to start booking?

*Prices based on return flights ex Sydney, departing 01/08/23. Prices correct at time of writing.