From sandy beaches along the blue coasts to meandering mountain roads and more than a thousand-year-old historical sites, Europe offers a variety of vacation destinations to suit all tastes and interests.

Unfortunately, many of these places, especially those popular tourist destinations like France, Germany, and the Netherlands, can strain your financial situation.

So, here goes a list of the best and most affordable places to travel and explore in Europe without compromising on enjoyment and entertainment.

1. Top 20 Cheapest Places to Travel in Europe

From our list of the most affordable European nations to explore, here are the top 20 cheapest places to travel in Europe.

1.1. Hungary: Cheapest Country to Save Money

Despite being one of the most costly nations in Eastern Europe, Hungary is still much less expensive than most of the Western half of the continent’s top tourist hotspots.

In addition to being one of the greatest cities in Europe, Budapest is also among the cheapest cities to visit.

The Chain Bridge walk across the Danube neighbourhood is just one of the many free things to do in Budapest, the capital city of Hungary.

The Underground Castle Labyrinth and Buda Castle are only two of the tourist attractions in the castle region that aren’t free to visit, but they’re still extremely reasonably priced.

The nation’s favourite fast meal is lángos, a type of deep-fried pizza topped with cheese, tomato sauce, or sour cream. Street food is another excellent option to save money when travelling there.

Things get considerably cheaper outside of the metropolis. Prices are significantly lower year-round in Tihany, a lakeside resort town, and in the Bükk Mountains, a popular destination for outdoor adventure.

You can visit the Hungarian Parliament Building, which has stunning architecture.

1.2. The Czech Republic

Although the Czech Republic is no longer as inexpensive as it once was, you can still enjoy great deals if you travel outside of Prague, the country’s capital city.

Be careful where you dine in the tourist-trapped Prague city centre; it can be one of the far less expensive countries to explore the suburbs.

Main attractions include strolling across Charles Bridge, pausing by the Astronomical Clock, and exploring the historic structures and cobblestone alleyways of Old Town Square.

You’ll also enjoy visiting Brno, the surrounding Moravian wine region, and the spa resort of Karlovy Vary.

1.3. Slovakia

Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, is undoubtedly the most costly city in the nation, but even here, you can keep your vacation affordable by utilizing the many free amenities the city has to offer.

Along with numerous tiny galleries dispersed across the city, Bratislava is also home to a large number of street sculptures, ranging from life-size Napoleon soldiers reclining against benches to bronze workers emerging from sewage holes.

The majority of the best sights and activities to do are concentrated in and around the Old Town centre region of Bratislava, the country’s capital, which is a tiny city that is easy to explore on foot.

If you’re travelling outside the city, trains and buses are inexpensive and pleasant.

However, Slovakia has a lot of outdoor activities available, and most of them are free. Many of them transform into fantastic locations for cross-country and downhill skiing, as well as snowshoeing, throughout the winter.

1.4. Bulgaria

You couldn’t leave Bulgaria off this list of cheap destinations because it is rumoured to be the cheapest country in Europe.

To begin with, Bulgaria is still mainly unknown to tourists, except those who come during the summer for a budget-friendly getaway by the Black Sea.

While Sofia is frequently the first stop for tourists, smaller cities with more than 200 archaeological monuments are even more affordable to explore.

Hotels in Bulgaria are especially affordable, and many offer free shuttle service in addition to free breakfast. Even then, you’ll only have to pay a fraction of what you would pay in Western Europe for lodging, cheap flights, and entertainment.

It’s a terrific destination to explore because eating delicious food is considerably more affordable than in other Western European cities, and transportation and lodging are far less expensive.

1.5. Slovenia

Three enormous nations, Hungary, Italy, and Austria, encircle the tiny nation of Slovenia. Mountainous and densely forested describes the country.

However, most visitors come for Slovenia’s coastline since it boasts several moderately priced, breathtaking sandy beaches and lots of sunshine. Slovenia is located along the Adriatic Sea.

The most well-known destination distant from the shore may be Lake Bled. The lake, which is approximately 35 kilometres from Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, has one of the country’s most magnificent vistas. Additionally, the cost of the attraction is fair.

Other budget-friendly vacation destinations include Triglav National Park, where you may hike to Mount Triglav’s top in two days while spending the night in a mountain hut, the walled village of Tanjel, the medieval town of Piran, and other such locations. 

1.6. Graz, Austria

Graz, Austria’s second-largest city, is occasionally overshadowed by some of the country’s other larger cities.

Yes, Vienna is incredibly gorgeous, but there are also tons of other breathtaking locations throughout Austria.

It’s understandable why Graz, which is rich in history, has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The affordable city is filled with absolutely beautiful locations, such as the stunning Rathaus.

Once you’re here, you should also make a quick journey to Schloss Eggenberg. You will adore it. You can nearly always find some affordable dining options and cheap places to dine in the city because it is home to several universities.

1.7. Romania

If you’re planning to go trekking in the Carpathian Mountains or are just interested in enjoying the countryside, Romania is one of the cheapest destinations in Europe.

Even a trip to Brasov, where Dracula’s Bran Castle is located, is reasonably priced if you sign up for a sightseeing day tour or don’t mind taking a sluggish train out of Bucharest.

You might take one of the many free walking tours that leave from the town centre, or you can rent a bike in the warmer months to explore smaller cities.

Most of the time, grocery shopping here is not liked because eating out is affordable and filling.

1.8. Bosnia and Herzegovina

Bosnia-Herzegovina is not the least expensive country on this list, but it does have one significant benefit over other places to visit: the cheapest flights and lodging don’t change significantly throughout the year.

This means that you may travel there in the summer to go rafting on the Neretva River or in the winter to enjoy pretty cheap skiing and some Christmas market shopping.

Just a short drive from Sarajevo, the country’s main city, several ski resorts are relatively average price, including Jahorina and Babin Do.

Add Bosnia and Herzegovina to your travel itinerary right away because of its rich history, diverse cultures, and stunning natural beauty. It is also quite economical.

Although dining out isn’t exceptionally expensive in this area, sticking to regional and local cuisine will allow you to save even more money because they can be found in more intimate cafés or on street vendors.

1.9. Poland

If at all possible, stay away from visiting Krakow and Warsaw in the summer because they are not always cheap.

The greatest time to travel to metropolitan Poland is during the shoulder season when the weather is warming, the cost of living is still reasonable, and the castles and palaces that were closed for the winter are now reopening, often at discounted prices.

Poland boasts excellent meals and incredibly affordable beer and vodka and is one of the cheapest places to travel in Europe.

Buses in Poland can carry you almost anywhere for relatively little money, although railways are typically not very inexpensive. On luxury long-distance buses from companies like Flixbus, which come with free Wi-Fi, you can travel to even the smallest villages in Poland.

1.10. Montenegro

Fresh seafood, limitless crystal-clear lakes, and lovely hiking, this little nation has a lot to offer! Weekend farmers markets are held in most cities and are a terrific place to get a cheap snack or quick meal.

Many people couldn’t even locate Montenegro on a map because it only achieved independence in 2006. Expect very low food prices in Montenegro because it is a country that is still trying to figure itself out, provided that you stick to the hearty, meat-heavy regional cuisine.

The shore of Montenegro is thronged with tourists in July and August. Many of them are Russian nationals who can enter Montenegro without a visa.

Ada Bojana, a tiny island away from the expensive coastal towns, is a popular spot for kiteboarding and a great summer vacation location with extremely reasonable pricing.

1.11. Portugal

The most alluring places in Portugal are those where visitors can enjoy the outdoors, the sun, and nature for free. For its soft golden sands, cliffs, and lighthouses, the Faro District in southern Europe is a well-liked vacation spot.

In contrast, tourists flock to Madeira for its untamed volcanic hiking trails, stunning harbour, and excellent scuba diving.

Travelling to Portugal outside of the height of the tourist season (June to August) will result in significant cost savings on lodging and food.

Except for the cost of transportation, some of Portugal’s most interesting locations are free to explore.

1.12. Italy

Italy is one of the most economical Western European nations to travel to. The public transportation system in Italy is so fantastic that there is no reason to ever employ a taxi.

The Colosseum and the Vatican are two of the most popular tourist destinations in the country, and they all have reasonable admission fees.

The easiest method to save money when travelling to Italy is to avoid going there during the summer when everything is more expensive, the lines for attractions are hours long, and the humid weather makes everything a little uncomfortable. Any season is a great time to visit Italy because most of it never sees true cold.

Because most cafés and restaurants in large cities charge you to sit down, you should order your coffee to go or drink it standing up.

1.13. Ronda, Spain

Ronda is the place for you if you’re seeking a city break that’s rich in history, has delectable Spanish cuisine, and has stunning views. One of the most reasonably priced travel destinations in Europe is, without a doubt, Ronda in Spain.

One of my favourite spots in Spain is Ronda, which is rich in history and is also far less expensive and busy than other Spanish cities.

It’s the ideal city getaway that won’t break the budget because lodging costs are cheaper than in seaside cities.

1.14. Ireland

One of the cheapest countries across Europe to fly into is Ireland. Getting to and from Dublin, Ireland’s capital city, doesn’t have to break the bank, all thanks to affordable flights available at Ryanair and Aer Lingus.

Take a couple of days to tour Dublin. Then, gather your belongings and journey across the nation to locations like Galway, Cork, and Killarney.

1.15. Albania

Albania continues to be one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. In addition to a wealth of historical monuments, spectacular natural beauty, and great summer weather, Albania features a beautiful coastline known as the Albanian Riviera with perfect beaches and azure waters without the sticker-shock prices of other European locals.

To save even more money, schedule your trip to the coast during April, May, or early June rather than during the high season. Since it will still be warm, you can still visit the beach, but you’ll also avoid the crowds and spend less money.

Sit-down restaurants in Albania are fairly inexpensive, while fast food restaurants and cafés are even more so. Buying regional pastries from nearby bakeries is a fantastic way to save money.

1.16. Estonia

It is not unexpected that costs are higher in Tallinn than they are elsewhere in the country, given that the city has become a magnet for entrepreneurs and the self-employed during the past ten years.

Fortunately, most visitors to Estonia spend little time in the capital and instead travel to some of the country’s top tourist destinations.

Estonia offers a wide selection of reasonably priced hotel and dining options outside of the capital. This is particularly true in Tartu, the second-largest city in the nation, which has a thriving cultural scene with free festivals all year long.

March through May and September through October are the finest periods to travel because there are up to 12 hours of daylight each day, making it easy to spend time outside exploring.

In addition, prices are substantially lower than they are in the summer, even if it is still pleasant and beautiful in May and September.

1.17. Nimes, France

Beautiful Nimes is a city in southern France that is worth seeing. Even better, compared to other cities in the South of France, it’s one of the least expensive destinations to visit in all of Europe.

This beautiful Roman village, which is only 30 minutes from the coast of the Mediterranean, offers history, culture, and beauty at a fraction of the price of other nearby cities.

Visit the old town while you’re here, look at the city’s renowned amber jewellery, and take a day trip to the best spa resorts of Sopot.

1.18. Thessaloniki, Greece

Thessaloniki, the second-largest city in Greece, is frequently forgotten about in favour of Athens. However, there is a tone to see and do for a lot less money than in the capital city.

Regional cities are typically slightly more affordable and reachable than capital cities when money is scarce. Thessaloniki is a wonderful city to explore because of this.

When you get here, take advantage of the rich Greek heritage and pay a visit to the White Tower. Oh, and make sure to drink enough ouzo and tiropita.

1.19. Split, Croatia

One of my favourite Croatian cities is Split, which is home to some of the most picturesque coastlines in all of Europe, as well as charming old architecture.

The city itself is an excellent starting point for excursions to places like Diocletian’s Palace, some stunning Croatian islands that are a must-see, and the imposing national parks that dominate the area.

It can be far less expensive to visit Split than other Mediterranean cities. It’s particularly excellent if you desire a Mediterranean shore vacation that is also rich in history.

1.20. Ukraine

Ukraine is the ideal destination for daring explorers because it is one of Europe’s least visited nations and may also be the cheapest. Over the past few years, there has been significant tourism growth in the nation’s capital, Kyiv.

Then, on to Lviv, one of the region’s most scenic cities famed for its wealth of open spaces and Soviet architecture. Odesa, a coastal city, is another popular destination where folks go to spend their summer vacation days.

One of the world’s most affordable nations is Ukraine. Dorm beds in hostels start at $4, while a hotel room for two people costs $30 per night.

Expect to spend between $3 and $7 on lunch at a nearby restaurant if you choose to eat out. In a bar, beer and wine cost $1 to $2.

Final Words

In conclusion, if you are planning your European vacation, there is an array of beautiful European cities you can explore without creating a hole in your pocket.

With a little planning, you can visit these amazing European destinations without compromising on fun, entertainment, and relaxation.

Last Updated on July 10, 2024 by Sathi Chakraborty