Despite what many people think, traveling Europe doesn’t have to be expensive. In fact, there are plenty of budget-friendly destinations that offer breathtaking experiences. Even with a modest budget, it’s possible to explore some of Europe’s most beautiful places.
Our personal experience of traveling to almost every country in Europe disproves the misconception that travel is only for the wealthy. Across the continent, there are affordable destinations that cater to budget-conscious travelers. But where exactly can you stretch your money the furthest? Which countries provide the best value for visitors? Join us as we delve into the best cheap places to visit in Europe.
Cheap Places to Visit in Europe
Bratislava, Slovakia
We’ll start off this list of cheap places to visit in Europe with the Slovakian capital! This underrated spot has only recently become a popular destination. With spots like St. Martin’s Cathedral, the Bratislava castle, or the Old Town Hall, there’s a lot of history to see in Bratislava. Visitors can also experience a great deal of culture in Bratislava. There are lots of musical and traditional events all year round that celebrate the history and culture of the country.
A decent accommodation option will cost tourists approximately €70 per night per person, while another €30-50 also should be set aside for food and recreation per day. You can find almost any kind of cuisine in Bratislava and all for an affordable price! One of the best restaurants in the city is Mecheche Snack Bar where almost nothing is more than €10-€15.
Budapest, Hungary
While Budapest has been featured as a backdrop in many popular movies, it is still a relatively cheap tourist destination in Europe. People from all over the world come to the city to enjoy the historical elegant boulevards. Not only is the Hungarian capital safe to visit, but it also offers a vibrant nightlife with many entertaining bars, restaurants, and nightclubs (Szimpla Kert is easily one of the most famous in all of Europe). Many call the marvelous architecture of the city, available on display for all to see without charge, a truly magical sight.
Accommodation in Budapest can cost anywhere from $2 per night at a hostel, to $80 for a nice hotel. Similarly, for food, keep a budget of at least $20 per person per day. At Hungarikum Bisztró, the most well reviewed restaurant in the city, a main course costs about 5800 Hungarian Forint (or $17 USD), although for a truly cheap meal you should check out Belvárosi Disznótoros.
Mostar, Bosnia & Herzegovina
Mostar is one of the most popular cities in Bosnia and Herzegovina and one of my favorite cheap places to visit in Europe. Known for its historical sites like the Stari Most and the old bazaar. Well-preserved Ottoman buildings and cobblestone alleys also make it a magical place to explore on foot, you’ll feel like you’re in another world here.
The city is compact enough to be seen in one day, and you’ll save a lot of money and enjoy a lot more if you travel around on foot. For meals expect a budget of $15-$30 per day, depending on how nice you want to eat. For accommodation, prices start at $10-20 for a hostel and around $55 a night at a nice hotel like the Shangri La Mansion.
Sofia, Bulgaria
The vibrant capital of Bulgaria, Sofia is a city that has been influenced by Byzantines as well as communism, making for an interesting travel experience. Sofia offers delicious food, culture, history, and nightlife for all and is easily one of the cheapest places to visit in Europe.
Some notable historical sites include the Rila Monastery, Boyana Church, Plovdiv, and Bachkovo Monastery. The markets downtown are also worth a visit on a nice day, especially the Zhenski Pazar Market. Daily expenses are quite affordable, with tourists having an enjoyable holiday on a budget of $65 per day per person. You can find a decent hotel room for $30, and the rest of your budget can be spent on food and recreation.
Riga, Latvia
The crown jewel of Latvia, Riga is the largest city in the Baltic states by population. Tourists will find heritage, architecture, and culture, even from the time of the city’s medieval roots. Old Town is a mix of architectural masterpieces, with Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque styles on display. Riga Central Market is also worth a visit for those wanting fresh produce and treating themselves to smoked eel.
All visitors should spend the day exploring the old town of Riga as it’s a a UN ESCO World Heritage Site and free to wander and admire the architecture. One of the best things to do is enjoy a free walking tour of the city (though tips are appreciated by the guide). Hostel accommodation will cost around €15 per night, whereas an upscale hotel will cost close to €80. For food and recreation, a budget of about €35 to €40 is more than enough.
Palermo, Sicily, Italy
Palermo, and Sicily by extension, have an innate ability to win over the hearts of everyone who visits. Not only does one find historical architectural marvels, like the Cattedrale di Palermo, the Massimo Theater, and the Quattro Canti, but tourists also get to see real Southern Italian living.
In addition to the historical sights, tourists get to taste authentic world-famous Sicilian cuisine. Sfincione, a style of pizza exclusive to Sicily. It will cost tourists €10 to €15 per pizza, and it is a local delicacy that must be experienced. One of the best things to do in Palermo on budget is visit the beach! There are several beautiful beaches around Palermo that are free to visit, such as Mondello, Sferracavallo, and Isola delle Femmine. Relax on the sandy shores or swim in the crystal-clear waters. Accommodation can cost anywhere from €15 for a hostel to €65 and up for a hotel suite.
Porto, Portugal
Porto offers an extensive history, a buzzing nightlife, and delicious cuisine. Tourists from all walks of life will find something to do in Porto. The city is known for its exquisite wine and hosts many wine tastings events that are festive and highly recommended. Tourists can also visit the historic port and enjoy a boat ride taking in the picturesque views of the city.
Porto is a bit more expensive than the other cities on this list, but it’s still an affordable destination in Europe. Meals per day will cost around €30 and accommodation and transport will cost close to €70 per day, depending on if you are splitting your cost with others. Make sure to try A Sandeira do Porto, for the tastiest and most affordable sandwich in the city.
Zagreb, Croatia
While Zagreb boasts some truly impressive museums, restaurants, and galleries, it has a vibrant side to it and is one of the cheapest places to visit in Europe. The city has a life of its own, with public art displays, street food, majestic green parks, and year-round festivals.
There are a lot of historical and architectural sights in the city, so a walking tour is a must to get the full experience. For something a bit unusual, tourists can also visit the Museum of Broken Relationships for approximately €5.
Accommodation costs will start at €20-€30 for hostels like the Chillout Hostel, where you can find both double rooms and dormitories. Meals will cost about €20 per day per person if you stick to places like Capuciner, Kod Mike, and the Dolac Market.
Transylvania, Romania
Dracula might be the most popular thing to come out of Transylvania, but there’s still a lot more to see in this beautiful region. Steeped in mystery, myth, and legend, the area is filled with fortified churches, Saxon villages, and medieval architecture. In addition to the hundred different Dracula tours, tourists can also enjoy wildlife, horse riding, and visiting the villages and wilderness of the Maramures region.
The area’s cuisine is also quite interesting, being a fusion of Germanic, Hungarian, and Turkish tastes.For budget, expect $30 for meals and about $60 for hotel accommodations. Try La Ceaun – Piata Sfatului in Brasov for a splurge worthy meal.
Krakow, Poland
Krakow is without a doubt Poland’s center of academic, cultural, and artistic life and one of the most beautiful cheap places to visit in Europe. What started as a hamlet in Wawel Hill in the 900s grew to be Poland’s most important economic hub. Simply put, Kraków is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, with a lot of history, and is worth visiting. In addition to visiting historical and architectural sights, the Bukovina Thermal Baths also offer a relaxing time to the weary traveler.
There are plenty of companies offering free walking tours around Krakow’s Old Town. ne of the best things to do in the city is tour the Jewish Quarter, Kazimierz – a vibrant area with a rich history and cultural heritage. Take a walk through the picturesque streets, visit the synagogues, and explore the many shops and restaurants that offer affordable options.
The average daily expense for a budget traveler in Krakow is $45. Accommodation will cost about $20, and the rest will go to food and recreation. Kolanko No 6 Restaurant is a must eat with quirky decor including old dentists’ chairs & serves Polish classics & pancakes.
Tallinn, Estonia
Despite its beauty and interesting history, Estonia is often overlooked. Regardless, Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, is a city that tourists must consider visiting. Tallinn offers a vibrant culture, historical architecture, gourmet restaurants, and unique museums. The best part is that you can explore the city on foot quite conveniently given its compact size.
For those interested in experiencing the city’s history, the Old Town is the spot to go, and if you visit around Christmastime, you’ll be treated to the best Christmas markets at a fraction of the price of Vienna. You should set aside €30 for food and enjoying activities like visiting Tallinn’s museums, including the Kumu Art Museum and the Estonian History Museum.
Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia
As the name suggests, the number one thing to do in the Plitvice Lakes National Park is to enjoy the nature. The Park is a collection of 16 lakes, all naturally cascading into one another – it’s easily one of the most spectacular sights in all of Europe!
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Plitvice is a popular tourist destination in Croatia, and visitors can enter by paying an entrance fee ranging from $10 to $40 depending on the season. Trails are marked out very well and the infrastructure makes visits very convenient for all visitors. For food, keep a budget of almost $30 and accommodation starts at $30 as well for a night in a hostel or inn nearby.
Vilnius, Lithuania
Vilnius is a delightful mix of elegance and quirky. The Lithuanian capital is filled with magnificent architecture and spirited artistic culture, which even resulted in the neighborhood of Užupis declaring itself an independent republic in 1997. Vilnius has many historical sights, such as those found in the Old Town. However, it also stands out as a center of Jewish history, even being colloquially known as the Jerusalem of the North.
For those traveling on a budget, €25 per day will offer a lot in terms of food and sightseeing and accommodation will cost at least €30 per night. If you can swing it, definitely make a day trip out to visit the stunning Trakai Castle!
Albanian Riviera, Albania
The Albanian Riviera comprises Ksamil, Butrint, and Saranda, and is a great example of the beauty that Albania has to offer. It’s not a well known Albanian fact, but the stunning European beaches here match those of Greece, numerous world heritage sites, beautiful weather, and delicious food, all at a reasonable price.
Historical sights can be found in all three cities of the Riviera, but tourists should take the time out to visit the Blue Eye, a beautiful natural blue spring. Visitors should set aside about $25 per day for food, travel, and sightseeing, while accommodation will cost in the range of $25 to $35, for a nice place to stay. We not only consider Albania one of the cheapest places to visit in Europe, but the entire world.
Stepantsminda, Georgia
Stepantsminda is a tiny hamlet located in the Kazbegi Municipality of Georgia and it is a stunning example of beautiful eastern European countryside. Bordering Russia, this area is one of the most beautiful in the Caucasus, and on a clear day, you can even see Mount Kazbek, one of the highest mountains in Europe.
Craggy mountain peaks covered with snow fill the horizon, surrounded by mist most of the day. The numerous valleys are home to small villages where cattle wander freely. For those looking for a more quiet traditional side of Georgia, Stepantsminda is the place to be. Vistors should keep a daily budget of $50-80 in mind when visiting Stepantsminda. It’s possible to eat very cheap in Georgia if eating the local cuisine of Khinkali and khachapuri – two Georgian staples!
Rhodes, Greece
Known as Knights Island, Rhodes has had a long and turbulent history, but it’s still considered one of the best islands to visit in Greece! This rich history combines cosmopolitan vibes with medieval architecture, pristine beaches, and lovely natural scenery.
For historical sights, tourists should consider visiting the Palace of the Grand Master, the Street of the Knights, and the Acropolis of Lindos. For those wanting to experience everything under one roof, there is the Archaeological Museum, one of the best places to visit in Rhodes. The beach is always free, and Lindos Beach is one of the most beautiful in all of Greece to spend the day at.
The Rhodes nightlife is also vibrant, with many bars, restaurants, clubs, and casinos to keep you entertained till the wee hours of the morning. For budget, allocate €30 per day for food and recreation on the low end, and at least €40 for accommodation although you can get much fancier on Rhodes.
Ljubljana, Slovenia
Ljubljana is one of the smallest European capitals with a population less than 300,000. This means the city is far from crowded, and certainly far from boring. Home to almost 50,000 university students, Ljubljana is a youthful city and has a lot to offer to locals and visitors alike. Restaurants, bars, cute cafes, and clubs are everywhere and cater to a wide variety of tastes and budgets.
The architecture of the city is astounding. Buildings and structures such as Ljubljana Castle, Zmajski most, Prešernov Trg Square, the Franciscan Church, and many different works by Jože Plečnik will leave you stunned. One of the best things to do in Ljubljana is visit the Ljubljana Castle. While the admission fee to the Ljubljana Castle can be a bit pricey, you can still enjoy the castle’s panoramic views of the city from the outside for free. The castle also offers free Slovenian, English, and Italian guided tours.
Belgrade, Serbia
Belgrade, known as “the Gate of the Balkans”, is a beautiful city steeped in a rich cultural and historical heritage. Those wanting to immerse themselves in this rich history and heritage can visit some of the many museums in the city. Some popular spots include the National Museum, the Nikola Tesla Museum, the Military Museum, and the Museum of Contemporary Art. Although we recommend the first thing visitors do when visiting the city is go on a free walking tour to get acquainted.
The city also has many monuments worth visiting, such as The Victor, the Prince Mihailo Monument, and The White Palace, the former royal residence of the Karađorđević dynasty.
For food and sightseeing, $20 will go a long way in Belgrade. We recommend having dinner at Sarajevski ćevap „To je to“ before enjoying a show at the National Theatre in Belgrade. You’ll be delighted to know that accommodation prices start at $25, and even less for hostel beds! Belgrade is one of the cheaper locations in Europe mentioned on this list.
Ayia Napa, Cyprus
When it comes to architectural ruins, pristine beautiful beaches, and ancient historical sites. Ayia Napa, a city known for its parties in Cyprus, does not disappoint. Tourists can see firsthand how the island has gone through the different periods of the Venetians, the Byzantines, and the Ottomans.
If historical sights such as the Ayia Napa Monastery and the Makronissos Tombs do not interest you, then you can relax on beaches like Nissi Beach and Konnos Bay, or go cliff jumping around Cape Greco. All easily hold a top spot as some of the best beaches in Cyprus.
Seafood is pretty big in Ayia Napa, and we recommend trying a delicious fish meal at Isaac Fish Tavern along the coast. €30 per day should be kept aside for food and enjoying a frappe or two, while accommodation prices will start at €40. Though there are dorm beds available at the House of Nissus.
Slovenian Alps
This mountain range holds great significance for Slovenia, as the highest peak of the range, affectionately called Triglav, is the symbol of Slovenia. The entire range is a breathtaking sight and a great deal of area has been left untouched.
Wilderness enthusiasts and winter sports fans will enjoy their time in this area. Hiking, skiing, and wildlife watching are just some of the available options. Though our favorite thing to do is take a paddle out on Lake Bled under the stunning Bled Castle. Hostel prices start at €50 and can go as high as €300 a night for some of the best hotels in the area. Dumplings are as cheap as €3 and a decent meal in a nice restaurant will cost €15 with local wine.
Tbilisi, Georgia
While Georgia might not seem an appealing vacation destination, don’t be fooled. The capital, Tbilisi, offers some of Europe’s best food and wine. We were shocked by how delicious and affordable all the Georgian food and restaurants were upon arrival here. Courtyard-clad houses, artsy architecture, and countless picturesque sights dotted across the city give Tbilisi a unique charm not seen elsewhere in Europe.
Instagram lovers will not be disappointed with so many picturesque spots, and the nightlife, with bars, clubs, and restaurants, will offer enough fun for all ages. We recommend taking the Tbilisi Cable Car above the city for the best views over Tbilisi. Food and sightseeing are quite cheap in Tbilisi. A budget of just $15 to $25 is enough to have a great experience for the day. Accommodation starts at $20 for hostels and $50 for a decent hotel.
Prizren, Kosovo
Prizren is a picturesque town not many have heard of situated in the foothills of the Šar Mountains in Kosovo. Once a large cultural and trading center, Prizren was even the capital of Serbia in the 14th century. Due to its long and varied history, tourists will find churches, mosques, old houses, and even ancient Turkish baths called Hammams, and other historical sights.
The town also enjoys a decent nightlife with bars, restaurants, and clubs all in the picturesque settings of Prizren. A budget-friendly hostel in Prizren can cost around €10-15 per night, while a mid-range hotel can cost around €25-40 per night. The good news is you can find affordable restaurants and street food in Prizren. A budget meal can cost around €3-5, while a mid-range meal can cost around €8-12. Of course, prices can vary depending on where you eat.
While visiting we recommend seeing the cultural attractions in Prizren, such as the Prizren Fortress and the Sinan Pasha Mosque. All having very low admission fees.
Normandy, France
France is a popular tourist destination, so it’s no surprise that Normandy would also be on this list. However, what’s surprising is how cheap Normandy can be to visit despite its popularity. Tourists can eat and enjoy the sights for €20 to €30, while a basic hotel costs €40. In the off season, tourists can also choose 1-bed vacation rentals for as cheap as €20.
In terms of attractions, Normandy has no shortage of museums, galleries, historical sights, bars, restaurants, and nightclubs. Tourists can find options that fit any budget and have a great time learning about the history and significance of what was World War ll’s greatest battleground.
Ulcinj, Montenegro
Ulcinj is quite popular due to its beaches, considered to be the best in all of Montenegro. It also offers more in terms of attractions than other seaside towns like Tivat, Budva, or Bar. Budgets are a bit higher in Ulcinj than in the rest of Montenegro, but they are still very affordable for Europe. Tourists should set €35 to €50 per day for food, activities, and sightseeing.
While there, visit the Ulcinj Old Town, wander the narrow streets, and explore the ancient castle, the beautiful mosques, and the colorful buildings. Or spend the day hiking in the Valdanos Nature Reserve. This nature reserve is located just outside of Ulcinj and offers breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea. The hiking trails are well-maintained and offer a chance to get completely lost in nature.
Ulcinj is famous for its seafood, so be sure to try some of the local dishes, such as grilled fish and octopus salad. Compared to even Greece, the prices in Ulcinj are pretty reasonable, especially at Antigona Restaurant where you can get delicious calamari for €5.
Lake Ohrid, Macedonia
Lake Ohrid and the neighboring Old Town both enjoy UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Besides the scenic views of the lake, there is a beach and boardwalk and the Old Town also has a lot of sightseeing to offer. The St. Jovan Kaneo and Monastery of Saint Naum are only some examples of free things visitors can enjoy while taking in views of the lake.
Wine enthusiasts should pay a visit to The Monastery Winery. Dining options are also varied with some of the best Macedonian cuisines on display. Restoran Sveta Sofija comes highly recommended and is where you can find affordable fish specialties like fried carp, grilled eel, and fried Ohrid trout.
When you get hot under the European sun go for a swim in Lake Ohrid. Lake Ohrid is a crystal-clear lake and a great place to cool off on a hot day. There are several public beaches around the lake, as well as plenty of places to rent kayaks, paddleboards, or pedal boats.
Bansko, Bulgaria
If you’re looking to ski and snowboard in Europe but don’t want to pay Switzerland prices, consider Bansko. Bulgaria offers some of your best ski bang for buck! Ski passes, equipment rentals, and accommodations are generally less expensive in Bulgaria than in other popular ski destinations in Europe, such as Switzerland or Austria.
The downside is the quality of ski slopes and facilities in Bulgaria may not be as high as in other destinations, and the resorts can get crowded during peak season.
What Are the Cheapest Countries to Visit in Europe?
In general, the more east you travel in Europe the cheaper countries become. If you’re backpacking Europe on a small budget consider sticking to the Baltics and the Balkans. Greece, Romania, Southern Italy, Hungary, and Slovakia are some of the cheapest places to visit in Europe.
What is the Cheapest City to Visit in Europe?
A few of the cheapest cities not mentioned on this list already are Bucharest, Warsaw, Sarajevo, Český Krumlov, and Kyiv.
How Can I See The Most of Europe for Cheap?
To really save, we recommend traveling to Europe outside of the summer months, staying in hostels, or splitting accommodation with friends. Purchasing a Eurail or Interrail Pass will also save you loads on train travel around Europe. Where trains are not popular, opt to take the bus!
Eating like a local is important: Look for street food or visit local markets to save money on meals. Avoid eating in touristy areas, as prices tend to be higher.
What is the Cheapest Month to Visit Europe?
The cheapest months to travel Europe are in the off and shoulder season months. This means January through May, and October and November.
What is the Best Month to Visit Europe?
The best months to visit Europe are arguably the summer months. Between June and August everything will be open and lively. Though this is the hottest time in Europe, and you’ll definitely want to book hotel rooms with AC. Additionally, it’s also the busiest and most expensive times to visit Europe. September is a fantastic month to travel Europe as the weather is still ideal and crowds are thinning.
Plan For Your Trip
- Protect Your Trip: We don’t travel without travel insurance, nor should you. You never know what can happen while traveling, so it’s best to be prepared. HeyMondo provides excellent short-term and long-term travel insurance plans.
- Find Cheap Flights: Sign up for Going (formerly Scotts Cheap Flights) to get notified when prices get low.
- Book a Rental Car: We use Discover Car to book all our rental cars! You can also read our top tips for renting a car abroad here.
- Travel Adapter: Make sure you find a good adapter to keep your personal electronics charged. Otherwise, you may be paying for a cheap one once you land. Purchase one here.
- Travel Backpack: We like the Nomatic Travel Backpack for our travels. Check the price here.
- Our Favorite Travel Shoes: Our answer to this question is always Allbirds! Check them out on their site!
- Get a Travel Credit Card: We travel worldwide for free because we have leveraged our spending into points. See how you can do the same with our favorite travel credit cards.
