Top 5 underrated Airports in Europe that could save you Money!

✈️ Top 5 underrated Airports in Europe that could save you Money

Posted on June 4, 2025

When it comes to booking flights, most people instinctively search for the biggest, most well-known airports. But that’s often where they overpay. Europe is full of smart alternatives – smaller airports that are easier to navigate, often less crowded, and surprisingly affordable.

Here are five underrated airports that could save you serious money – and make your trip smoother in the process.

Why underrated airports can save you money

Many travellers automatically search from the biggest airport near them. But the biggest airport is not always the cheapest or most convenient option.

Smaller and underrated airports often have lower fees, more low-cost airline routes, easier parking and shorter walking distances inside the terminal. In some cases, choosing an alternative airport can save both money and time.

Before booking, it is worth comparing nearby airports instead of checking only one departure point. If you are new to this approach, read our guide on how to compare airports.

1. Eindhoven Airport (EIN) – Netherlands 🇳🇱

Just over an hour from Amsterdam, Eindhoven is a hub for budget airlines like Ryanair and Wizz Air. You’ll find cheap flights to cities across Europe – and shorter queues than Schiphol.

• ✈️ Can offer lower fares than Amsterdam on some European routes
• 🚄 Easy rail and bus connections
• 🅿️ Fast & easy airport parking available
• 💡 Tip: Use AirportMix to compare Eindhoven with other nearby departure airports

2. Pisa International Airport (PSA) – Italy 🇮🇹

Pisa isn’t just for the leaning tower. It’s a useful gateway to Tuscany and can be an interesting alternative to Florence depending on flight prices and schedules.

• 🛫 Good connections to Amsterdam, Brussels, and London
• 🚗 Car rentals are often cheaper here than at FLR – read why we use Sunny Cars
• 🚆 Great train connections across Tuscany
• 📍 Perfect for reaching Lucca, San Gimignano, or Montaione

3. Rotterdam The Hague Airport (RTM) – Netherlands 🇳🇱

Overshadowed by Amsterdam, RTM is easy to overlook. It has fewer flights than Schiphol, but its smaller size and different route network can make it an interesting alternative for some European trips.

• 🛬 Close to both Rotterdam and The Hague
• 🧳 Excellent for short weekend getaways
• 🅿️ No-hassle parking close to the terminal
• 🌍 Worth comparing with Schiphol and Eindhoven for European routes

4. Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ) – Italy 🇮🇹

Looking to explore Northern Italy or Tuscany without paying Florence premiums? Bologna is a solid alternative.

• 🍝 Great for pairing with city trips to Bologna, Parma, or Modena
• 💸 Can offer different fares and schedules compared with Florence
• 🚐 Shuttle + train access makes transfers simple – see our access guide
• 🚗 Also solid car rental options on-site – read our experience

5. Brussels South Charleroi Airport (CRL) – Belgium 🇧🇪

Located south of Brussels, this airport is a major hub for Ryanair and a budget-friendly alternative to Brussels Zaventem (BRU).

• 🌍 Access to dozens of European cities
• 💶 Strong presence of low-cost European routes
• 🚌 Well-connected with Brussels by shuttle
• 🅿️ Easy online parking options – check how we do it

How to compare underrated airports before booking

The cheapest flight is not always the cheapest journey. Before choosing an airport, compare the full travel picture.

• Flight price: Is the ticket actually cheaper?
• Travel time: How long does it take to reach the airport?
• Airport parking: Is parking cheaper than at a major hub?
• Train or bus access: Can you reach the airport easily?
• Flight schedule: Are the departure and arrival times convenient?

For example, travellers in the Netherlands may compare Eindhoven vs Schiphol before booking. Sometimes the smaller airport offers lower fares, easier parking and a smoother airport experience.

You can also explore real route combinations on AirportMix, such as Amsterdam to Bologna flights, where comparing nearby airports can reveal more flexible travel options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are underrated airports usually cheaper?

They can be. Smaller airports often attract low-cost airlines and may have lower parking or airport fees. However, the total cost depends on your route, travel dates and how easy the airport is to reach.

Which airports are good alternatives to Amsterdam Schiphol?

Eindhoven Airport and Rotterdam The Hague Airport can be useful alternatives for European routes. They are smaller than Schiphol and may offer cheaper fares or a quicker airport experience.

Is Bologna Airport a good alternative for Tuscany?

Yes. Bologna Airport can be a practical alternative to Florence or Pisa, especially when flight prices are lower or schedules are better. It also has good onward connections by train and car.

Why should I compare multiple airports before booking?

Comparing multiple airports helps you look beyond the obvious option. A nearby airport may offer cheaper flights, better departure times, easier parking or more convenient onward travel.

Final Thoughts

Next time you book a flight, don’t settle for the obvious airport. Compare nearby airports, routes and travel options before making your final choice.

With AirportMix, you can compare relevant nearby departure and arrival airports in one search and choose the option that best fits your trip.

🔗 Want even more travel hacks?

• Best airports with train access
• Why we love Sunny Cars for road trips
• How to book better airport parking

👉 Ready to discover smarter airports? Search, compare and book your flight →