As a general rule (that has proven to be quite accurate), when booking international air fares from the U.S. to Europe, fly to London first.  Then, on a separate itinerary, connect out of London to the destination of your choice. It seems it’s much cheaper to fly to western Europe, particularly London, than to fly to eastern or central Europe. Once in London, you can choose a reliable budget airline of your choice for budget air fares throughout Europe. For example, while planning my upcoming trip to Italy - yes, I’m very excited! - I’ve found that booking cheap air fares from DFW to LGW will cost just under $700 with American Airlines and then through EasyAir to get to Italy costs about $40; a total budget air fare of $740 before taxes and fees.  A flight from DFW to VCE in Venice, Italy costs a little over $1000 before taxes and fees!  That’s certainly not cheap airfare tickets. See?  International air fares can be as affordable as you’re willing to make the effort for them to be.