Cheap flights to Europe

The best way to get around mainland Europe is by road or rail. Purchasing a railcard is a flexible and convenient option for exploring multiple countries. Buses usually take longer but are often cheaper than trains, especially when you book in advance. If you plan to explore further off the beaten tourist track, check options for car hire at your destination airport before flying to Europe. Travellers who prefer to see the world on two wheels will also appreciate the many cross-country cycle routes. You can also find many affordable flights to destinations away from the mainland continent such as UK, Iceland, and the Balearic Islands.

Comprising a total of 51 countries, Europe is home to diverse cultures, cuisines, languages and natural landscapes. Anyone who wishes to book flights to Europe will have a wealth of places to explore no matter their interest. If you are travelling in autumn, pay a visit to Germany's annual Oktoberfest, a festival full of music, traditional dress and plenty of beer. Keen to spend time outdoors? Get your hiking boots on and explore the Scottish highlands, trek through Germany's Black Forest or hit the beach and bathe in the warm waters of the Mediterranean along France's southern coast.

You can find Europe flight deals from several hubs around South Africa. Some of the fastest flights to Europe from South Africa depart from Johannesburg. Fly direct to Paris in around 10h 55min or to London in around 11h 10min. The quickest flights to Europe from Cape Town include the direct Lufthansa route to Frankfurt, which takes around 11h 55min. Flights with one or more stopovers may take considerably longer but may offer more flexibility when you travel. There is often little or no time difference between destinations in South Africa and Europe, so we recommend trying to find cheap flights to Europe in the evening so that you arrive at your destination in the morning.

Before you book your Europe airfare, find out the visa requirements for your destination. South African citizens must have a Schengen visa to travel to any country in the Schengen zone, such as France and Germany. Some countries outside the Schengen zone, such as the UK, also require individual visas. Don't forget the additional cost of visas when you compare flights to Europe. You should also compare rates at currency exchange bureaus to get the best deal and check your phone plan as rates vary across Europe. And remember, while English is widely spoken across Europe, not everyone speaks English. It may also be useful to brush up on the language of the country you are visiting so you can easily communicate with locals.

Yes, flights with stopovers are often cheaper than direct flights. Keep an eye out for flight deals to Europe on Cheapflights that require 1 or 2 stops for potential cost savings.

Based on reviews from Cheapflights users, Emirates is rated the highest out of the airlines that fly to Europe.

Amsterdam Schiphol is currently the cheapest airport to fly to in Europe. One-way flights to Amsterdam Schiphol typically cost R232, while return flights cost around R347.

A return flight to Europe will typically cost around R14 537, however they can be found for as little as R970.

For those looking to save time traveling to Europe, Johannesburg offers the quickest one-way flight (9 hours 45 minutes).

Yes. Those touching down at Madrid Barajas can take advantage of the car hire services offered upon their arrival.

Yes. Madrid Barajas has hotels nearby for those requiring accommodations. New Elegant 3 Bedroom Apt Near Ifema Airport is the closest property to Madrid Barajas (0,0 km away from Madrid Barajas).