European travel can be expensive, but there are plenty of affordable cities and places to see. From delicious food to stunning architecture and fascinating history, these cheap European destinations have a lot to offer travelers on a budget and offer you the chance to save money but also see major European cities with a ton of history and culture.
There are many things that make a city an affordable destination to visit. One of the most important factors is the availability of cheap accommodations. In most cities, tourists can find rentals, hostels, and budget hotels that offer rooms for a fraction of the cost of traditional hotels.
Another major factor is the cost of food and beverages. In most cities, visitors can find plenty of restaurants and bars that offer affordable menu items.
Additionally, many cities have free tourist attractions, such as museums and parks, which help to keep costs down. Finally, transportation is often a relatively low-cost option in most cities, making it easy to get around without spending a lot of money.
We took these considerations into account to find the best and cheapest European cities to visit to allow you to see more without it breaking the bank.
We’ve also compiled a visual travel guide video of these cheapest places to visit in Europe. You can watch the video on YouTube or a summary version in the video herein.
Cheap Places to Visit in Europe
1. Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is one of the most beautiful and interesting cheap European cities to visit. The Hungarian capital is full of history and fantastic architecture from multiple eras, featuring everything from medieval castles to art nouveau buildings.
The city also has great nightlife options, with many bars and clubs and top-notch restaurants serving traditional Hungarian dishes like goulash. And if you’re looking for fun activities during the day, you’ll find plenty, including exploring the Buda Castle or relaxing at one of its famous thermal baths.
Take a scenic climb to the summit of Gellért Hill and marvel at the towering monument dedicated to Saint Gerard. Afterward, make your way down Andrássy Avenue until you reach Heroes’ Square. This grand plaza is home to the Millennial Memorial with Gabriel atop it and 14 statues depicting Hungary’s heroic past.
Enjoy a free guided tour of the Parliament and be dazzled by its awe-inspiring gothic revival architecture. Visiting the National Gallery is a perfect way to spend a rainy day on a tight budget. Visit the Széchenyi Thermal Baths, where you can unwind in its indoor/outdoor pools, saunas, and dunk baths – making it one of Budapest’s must-have experiences!
Looking for somewhere thrifty to stay nearby? The 4-star Alice Hotel is extremely reasonably priced, and just a stone’s throw from Heroes’ Square!
See Related: Best Warm Winter Destinations in Europe
2. Krakow, Poland
Kraków should definitely be on your bucket list of places to see, especially on the cheap! Apart from its storied history, Krakow is perhaps best known for its beautiful old town square surrounded by colorful buildings dating back centuries.
The city also boasts many cultural attractions, like museums and galleries and amazing restaurants, where you can sample traditional Polish cuisines such as pierogis or bigos. The street food in Old Town is quite affordable, or stop in at the local favorite at Plac Nowy in Kazimierz.
Depending on the length of your stay, Old Town Krakow can be explored in around 20 minutes, or longer if you linger. Considering how quickly you can explore it, consider Krakow as a great jumping-off point for other attractions in Poland.
While you’re visiting Krakow, you must take time to visit two of Poland’s most iconic attractions; the Wieliczka Salt Mine, a stunning subterranean cathedral carved out of salt, or take a day trip to Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum – the infamous Nazi death camp. Both are accessible by public transportation and many local hostels and hotels also provide transportation. And speaking of accommodation, there are tons of lovely, budget options out there, such as the Nobilton Hotel.
Krakow museums offer free admission on various days throughout the week! Another option is to purchase a multi-venue ticket for the Museum of Kraków and Kraków National Museum branches beforehand. This way, you can access these two leading museums at an affordable price.
See Related: Warsaw vs Krakow: What’s Better?
3. Český Krumlov, Czech Republic
Český Krumlov has become increasingly popular over recent years thanks to its picturesque streets and riverfront setting. Home to tons of historic architecture, it has a fascinating history dating back to before the 13th Century.
Walking around the old town of Český Krumlov is one of the most popular tourist activities—it’s free and very enjoyable! If walking isn’t your thing, consider renting a bike to explore further sights outside of the old town area.
You can explore cobblestone streets lined with near-ancient buildings and admire several incredible castles, such as Český Krumlov Castle, which offers stunning views over the city from its hilltop location.
Český Krumlov is busiest during summer when tourists flock from all over Europe and beyond. If you’re looking for lower prices, try visiting during spring or autumn instead; prices tend to drop significantly during these seasons. Plus, it’s worth noting that the weather can be quite mild in springtime, making it ideal for sightseeing.
Perhaps best of all for budget travelers, is that Český Krumlov is home to some stunning budget accommodations, particularly guesthouses and vacation rentals. This crisp, modern vacation apartment is a prime example, and pretty cheap to boot!
4. Valencia, Spain
Despite what you might have heard, Valencia is a great destination for budget travelers as it offers plenty of affordable activities and attractions. Not only can you enjoy beautiful beaches and stunning architecture here, but you can also indulge in delicious local food and culture at an affordable price, which is an absolute win considering other Spanish cities like Madrid and Barcelona can be somewhat pricey.
Valencia is home to some of Spain’s most iconic sites, such as La Lonja de la Seda (Silk Exchange Building) and the breathtaking, futuristic La Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias (City of Arts and Sciences). To make your stay even more affordable, consider staying in one of Valencia’s many hostels or vacation rentals. I mean, you won’t believe the average cost of this stunning apartment, just a short hop from La Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias.
El Carmen is the oldest neighborhood in Valencia and is home to some of the city’s best street art. In addition to its traditional architecture, the area is known for its vibrant graffiti murals that date back to the 1980s. Some of the most famous murals found in El Carmen include “The Three Graces ” and “The Triumph of Death.”
If you’re looking for a more traditional experience, head to Plaza de la Reina to see the iconic 16th Century Miguelete Tower. The tower stands an impressive 97 meters tall and is visible from most parts of the city. Climb to the top of the tower to get an incredible view of Valencia and its surroundings.
Valencia is an excellent choice for travelers as it offers plenty of affordable activities and attractions.
See Related: Best European Palaces to Visit
5. Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul is a great destination for budget travelers seeking an exotic experience. The enchanting city of Istanbul is home to a wealth of free activities and attractions, including Sultanahmet Square.
This iconic square is situated right in the center of the historic old town. It offers spectacular views of some of Istanbul’s most famous landmarks, such as the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. The Grand Bazaar is an awesome place to wander and enjoy the city’s colorful atmosphere.
When it comes to food, Istanbul has street food snacks like gözleme to delicious kebabs – all of it for mere pennies. Regarding accommodation options, plenty of inexpensive hotels, hostels, or vacation rentals are available throughout the city. The hotel SuB KARAKÖY for example, is an awesome budget hotel for anyone looking for a unique stay.
Another budget-friendly place to visit is Galata Tower, a 14th Century stone tower on the north side of Istanbul. Climb its winding stairs for stunning views of the Bosphorus Strait and Golden Horn. If you want to enjoy a whistlestop tour of the city, catching all the top landmarks for mere pennies, take a ride on one of the city’s public transportation ferries.
With nowhere else like it in the world, Istanbul is easily among the best cheap cities in Europe to visit, and you’re getting more bang for your buck because half of the city isn’t actually in Europe!
6. Bratislava, Slovakia
Tourists often overlook Bratislava in Slovakia, but this vibrant city is an awesome destination for any traveler! Here, you can explore cobblestoned streets lined with historic buildings or take a stroll along the Danube riverfront promenade, which boasts breathtaking views of the Old Town skyline.
There are plenty of reasonably priced accommodations in Bratislava, making it one of the most affordable cities in Europe! CHORS, one of the most unique accommodations I’ve ever stayed in anywhere in the world, proves that hostels don’t need to be grim, shared barrack blocks in order to be cheap. And if you think you need to save on food costs, tons of Michelin-quality restaurants offer delicious traditional Slovakian dishes such as bryndzové halušky, for the price of a cocktail in Paris.
Bratislava Old Town is a lovely area to explore, with its cobblestoned streets lined with historic buildings. It is home to Cumil, an iconic bronze statue of a man peering from a manhole. This quirky sculpture is one of the most popular attractions in the city and has been delighting visitors since 1997. Make sure to take a picture of this famous local landmark!
Bratislava is also home to several free museums and galleries, including the Slovak National Museum and City Gallery. The city also has some amazing outdoor attractions, such as Bratislava Castle, which offers incredible cityscape views.
So, don’t overlook Bratislava like the rest of the crowd. It’s a beautiful place where even a little money can still give you a memorable vacation.
See Related: Best Castles in Slovakia to Visit
7. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague is known as one of the most beautiful and one of the cheapest cities in Europe to visit. The entire historic center of the city is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site and you’ll find it on almost any list of cheap European destinations. Located at the heart of Europe, Prague is a fantastic destination for travelers of all sorts.
Prague is a vibrant city is full of stunning architecture and cultural attractions. The city offers several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, delicious food, and great nightlife at low prices. Plus, there are plenty of free attractions throughout the city, like Charles Bridge and Old Town Square.
The Astronomical Tower is a unique landmark in Prague, located in the Old Town Hall. This historic tower was built in the 14th Century and stands an impressive 70 meters high.
It was once used to observe the movements of stars and planets, today it is a popular tourist attraction. You can climb the stairs or take an elevator to the top of the tower and enjoy the incredible views of Prague.
Being the true home of lager, Prague is renowned for its amazing beer as well as delicious traditional Czech dishes. You’ll want to taste everything from their hearty meat dishes to mouthwatering desserts! Accommodations are pretty reasonably priced too, although this is now starting to change, now that tourism in Prague is really taking off. That said, even really fancy joints, like 987 Prague Hotel, are still within the budget bracket.
Best of all, there are usually great flight deals to Prague from large cities around the rest of Europe. As far as this list goes, this city is definitely our favorite capital city to visit that is also incredibly affordable.
![Best Things to do in Prague, Czechia - Travel Guide [4K HD]](https://viatravelers.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-youtube-lyte/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2FpagL-Oh5sts%2F0.jpg "20 Cheap Places to Visit in Europe 8")
8. Riga, Latvia
Riga in Latvia is another one of the cheapest cities in Europe to visit. The city is home to several interesting sites, like Riga Castle, St. Peter’s Church, and the Freedom Monument—all of which can be explored on a budget. In addition, plenty of great restaurants offer traditional Latvian cuisine at unbeatable prices.
One of the most popular attractions in Riga is the Art Nouveau tour, showcasing some of the city’s most impressive architecture from the early 20th Century. Make up your walking tour and find many stunning Art Nouveau buildings with unique styles and stories.
The House of Blackheads is particularly noteworthy, featuring a colorful facade and an interesting history. And after all that, if you’re looking for a wonderful place to stay without breaking the bank, you could do much worse than the Hestia Hotel Jugend.
Riga is also home to a vibrant nightlife scene with plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants for budget travelers to explore. It’s the perfect destination for those looking for a great time without spending too much money.
9. Athens, Greece
On the surface, Athens may not seem like one of the cheapest cities in Europe, but actually, there are some amazing options for travelers on a budget, especially if you plan. Many ancient Greek ruins in and around Athens can be seen for free, including the legendary Acropolis (which can easily be seen from this stunning Athens vacation rental). This city is also ideal for walking tours and people-watching.
If you’re looking for a taste of traditional Greece, the charming district of Plaka is the place to go. Nestled in the shadow of the Acropolis, this district has narrow streets, historic houses, and plenty of restaurants and bars serving delicious Greek cuisine.
A stroll through Plaka is a must-do during any visit to Athens! Plus, it is free! Athens also has plenty of nightlife options for budget travelers. The city has great jazz clubs, lively bars, and even quirky karaoke spots.
See Related: Best Quiet Greek Islands to Visit on Holiday
10. Zagreb, Croatia
Zagreb is an excellent option for those looking for a cheaper alternative to other European destinations like Paris or London. The city has unique attractions, like Mirogoj Cemetery and Ban Jelacic Square. Zagreb also has wonderful restaurants where you can sample local delicacies at low prices. And don’t miss about Zagreb’s vibrant nightlife scene, which offers plenty of entertainment without breaking the bank!
Ban Jelacic Square is a must-see for all visitors to Zagreb. Located in the city center, it is one of the most iconic landmarks and features a stunning equestrian monument by Ban Josip Jelačić, erected in 1866. During the summer months, this square becomes alive with street performers, musicians, and artists, making it a great place to people-watch.
Zagreb is also full of museums and galleries featuring art from around the world. The Museum of Broken Relationships is a particularly interesting one that displays items donated by couples who have gone through heartache or breakups.
It’s a different way to explore relationships and a great way to spend an afternoon in Zagreb. And hey, if your heart’s been smashed and broken, take solace in that you can save some cash (and maybe find a new like-minded boo) at the Swanky Mint Hostel nearby!
11. Split, Croatia
While we’re still in Croatia, Split is another great option for budget travelers who want to experience Croatian culture without spending too much money. This breathtaking coastal city features beautiful architecture, stunning beaches, and plenty of opportunities for exploration on a tight budget. In addition, Split also offers some great food options with lots of fresh seafood dishes that aren’t too dear.
Diocletian’s Palace is a beautiful example of ancient Roman architecture and one of Croatia’s most popular tourist destinations. This palace was once the home of Roman Emperor Diocletian and today houses several museums and a cultural center. The palace contains fascinating historical exhibits, beautiful courtyards, gardens, and fountains.
One of the highlights of a visit to Diocletian’s Palace is the Klapa Group performances, which take place in the Peristyle courtyard every evening. This unique Croatian musical tradition features acapella singing by male vocalists and is something you won’t want to miss!
The palace also features several interesting museums, including the Gallery of Fine Arts and the Green Market, where you can find low prices for fresh produce, flowers, and souvenirs. So, if you’re looking for an amazing cultural experience combined with stunning natural beauty, be sure to add Diocletian’s Palace to your list of places to visit!
Interested in staying nearby? You can actually stay at Diocletian’s Palace, albeit for an arm and a leg (and for a “meh” experience, if reviews are anything to go by). But I think you’ll find this extremely well-priced luxury apartment far more appealing.
For a visual and deeper look at Split, watch our YouTube video about Split, Croatia.
![Best Things to Do in Split, Croatia - Travel Guide [4K]](https://viatravelers.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-youtube-lyte/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2FtyjXWCv-NlY%2F0.jpg "20 Cheap Places to Visit in Europe 13")
See Related: Best Day Trips from Split, Croatia
12. Kaunas, Lithuania
Kaunas, Lithuania, is an underrated gem that provides visitors with plenty of things to do on a budget. Stay at one of the hostels near the Old Town and enjoy all the sights from there.
Kaunas boasts incredible architecture and offers interesting museums such as the Devils Museum and the Lithuanian Aviation Museum. The nightlife scene here is also incredibly vibrant, with plenty of bars and clubs available for those who want to let loose.
Visiting Kaunas Old Town is a must-do for any traveler. This city area is filled with historical buildings and monuments that tell the story of Kaunas’s past.
Stroll through cobbled streets and explore historic squares, each with its own distinct style. Take time to marvel at the grand churches and old courtyards. Then, don’t forget to stop by Kaunas Castle – a medieval fortification that was once home to Lithuania’s ruling elite.
Kaunas is also full of great budget-friendly eateries offering delicious local dishes. For something truly unique, head to Vytautas Magnus University and grab a meal at the student canteen. This place is frequented by locals and offers tasty, inexpensive dishes that are sure to satisfy any appetite.
There are also tons of great places to stay in Kaunas, so cheap that you won’t believe your luck. The very good Very Bad Hootel is one such example, and is ideal for budget travelers looking for something a little out of the ordinary!
13. Sofia, Bulgaria
Sofia offers some of the lowest prices for food and drinks in all of Europe, making it an ideal destination for those on a tight budget. Accommodation costs are pretty generous too. Even rooms at somewhere cool, modern, and swanky like Hotel Kitchen59 are a steal!
You can enjoy stunning views of Mount Vitosha or visit historical sites like Alexander Nevsky Cathedral or Boyana Church. And don’t forget about Sofia’s lively nightlife scene, where you can find live music venues, bars, pubs, and nightclubs galore!
One of the city’s major attractions is the Sofia History Museum, an interactive museum that allows visitors to learn about the city’s past through multimedia exhibits and interactive activities. The museum also hosts regular wine-tasting tours in its cellar, which is a great way to try some of the local wines while learning about the region’s history.
For culture seekers, Sofia is home to many notable cultural institutions, including the National Gallery for Foreign Art and the Bulgarian National Theatre. Or if you want to take a break from exploring the city, relax in one of Sofia’s gorgeous parks like Borisova Gradina or Eagle’s Rock Park.
See Related: Best Places to Get Married in Europe
14. Belgrade, Serbia
Belgrade in Serbia is a great option for travelers looking for an affordable getaway, as it provides numerous activities without costing too much money. Here you can explore Kalemegdan Park and Belgrade Fortress or even embark on a pub crawl through Skadarlija, the city’s bohemian quarter. The Skadarlija neighborhood is known for its artistic atmosphere and beautiful buildings dating back to the early 20th Century.
This city also has a vibrant nightlife scene with many clubs around town playing everything from EDM to traditional Balkan music! And if you’re feeling adventurous, head to Ada Ciganlija lake, where you can partake in water sports like kayaking or swimming.
Belgrade Fortress is an impressive fortification located in the center of town. Fortresses have existed on this site since 279 BC and have been rebuilt many times since then. The fortress is now home to a number of museums, art galleries, and restaurants, as well as providing stunning views of the city below.
Belgrade’s architecture is characterized by its mix of Eastern European and Western styles. You can see this clash of styles throughout the city, particularly in its churches and government buildings.
Knez Mihailova Street is a popular pedestrian street located in downtown Belgrade. It’s filled with trendy shops, bars, and restaurants, making it a great place to spend an afternoon or evening. And finally, no trip to Belgrade would be complete without a visit to the Sebilj – a replica of a traditional type of water fountain found throughout the Balkans.
If you are looking for a way to experience Balkan culture, Belgrade is sure to have something that will satisfy any budget traveler, including accommodations, such as the gorgeous S Club Resort Hotel Aqua Park and Spa. For that price, there ain’t no party, like an S-Club party, no sir.
15. Bucharest, Romania
If you’re looking for something different from the usual European destinations, then Bucharest might be the perfect choice for you! While some of the more touristy Romanian cities are known for being quite expensive, the capital city offers tons of attractions at very reasonable price points, making it one of the best cheap cities in Europe to visit!
One of the best ways to explore Bucharest is by walking through its Old Town area. which is filled with cobblestone streets, and enjoy the city’s unique culture by visiting landmarks like Stavropoleos Church, and the People’s Palace which is the heaviest building in the world! You can also find several museums in this area, including the National Museum of Art and the Museum of Romanian Peasants.
Revolution Square is a great option if you’re looking for a place to relax. This large plaza is surrounded by cafes and restaurants and is often used as a venue for concerts and other events. And if you’re looking for something more energetic, head to Arch of Triumph, where you’ll find some of Bucharest’s wild nightlife scene!
While it may not be as widely visited as some other European capitals, this Romanian city offers visitors an eclectic mix of attractions ranging from historical landmarks to lively nightlife venues. Options for accommodations also favor the budget traveler who knows what to look for. The beautiful boutique Hotel Michelangelo is a prime example of budget accommodations done right.
16. Bansko, Bulgaria
Bansko, Bulgaria, is one of the best places to visit in Europe without breaking the bank, especially if you’re keen on skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. Located in Eastern Europe, this destination is known for its ski resorts (such as the quintessentially Bulgarian Trinity Residence Bansko), affordable accommodations, and activities, making it a popular spot for budget-savvy travelers.
With some of the cheapest activities on its doorstep, Bansko is a great place to explore cheaply. From skiing on Pirin Mountain to visiting Rila Monastery and other historic sites, plenty of incredible things to do here won’t leave you penniless.
Plenty of great restaurants and bars also serve hearty Bulgarian food at reasonable prices. In short, if you’re looking for a place to visit that won’t break your budget, Bansko is definitely one of the best places to go!
See Related: The Ultimate Backpacking Through Europe Itinerary
17. Tallinn, Estonia
Tallinn, Estonia, is a great European destination for tourists looking to travel on a budget. This historic city offers plenty of affordable things to do and places to visit, making it an ideal location for those looking for a cheap vacation.
There are also plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, such as cycling through the surrounding countryside, boating on Lake Peipus, and hiking along the coastal cliffs.
No matter what your interests are, Tallinn has something to offer that won’t break the bank. And that’s not even mentioning places to stay. If you’re looking for a nice place to hang your hat, luxury can be bought for a pittance at places like the historic Hotel St. Barbara. So if you’re looking for an inexpensive yet memorable vacation spot, Tallinn should be at the top of your list!
18. Thessaloniki, Greece
Thessaloniki, Greece, is the perfect destination for those looking for an affordable place to visit with sublime weather. With its low prices, warm Macedonian climate, and stunning views, it’s no wonder why people flock to this part of the country every year. Thessaloniki is located on the north coast of Greece, making it a perfect spot to enjoy the Mediterranean Sea.
In addition to its great beaches and friendly locals, Thessaloniki boasts incredible architecture. From ancient churches and castles to modern-day buildings and museums, this city has caters to multiple tastes. The food here is also a serious highlight, and I highly recommend trying some of the local seafood delicacies.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an exciting adventure, Thessaloniki will provide plenty of fun activities and places to explore. There is also no shortage of affordable places to stay, such as this quirky, cool, luxury modern suite in the heart of town.
19. Palermo, Italy
Palermo, the capital of Sicily in Italy, is a great destination for cheap travel. With its low cost of living, it’s one of the cheapest places to visit in Europe. Being one of the most conquered places on the planet, Palermo is full of fascinating historical sites, as well as beautiful scenery, and delicious food.
From the picturesque cobbled streets to the majestic churches and palaces, there are a lot of interesting and affordable destinations that can be explored within the city or even as a day trip. This beautiful city also offers amazing beaches and outdoor activities such as hiking and swimming.
To make the most of your trip to Palermo, you should consider taking advantage of local attractions and dining options discounts.
Additionally, there are many budget-friendly accommodations throughout the city center for those looking for an affordable stay. I recently stayed a few nights at La Vucciria di Guttuso, a breathtaking B&B that makes every other Bed & Breakfast I’ve stayed in pale.
See Related: Best Tours in Italy
20. Graz, Austria
Graz, Austria, is one of the most affordable places to visit in Europe. This Austrian city offers its visitors a wide range of different activities and attractions, making it one of the most interesting destinations out there.
There are tons of restaurants in town offering both traditional Austrian cuisine as well as international dishes that will satisfy any budget and palate. Additionally, this bustling city has many parks and gardens, making it a perfect place for a relaxing walk or picnic. And that’s not all. The amount of superb budget hotels, hostels, and rentals in this corner of Austria is not to be sniffed at.
Even centrally located, crisp, modern hotels like Hotel Daniel Graz can be booked on a budget. With so much to do and see for such an affordable price, Graz should definitely be on your list of places to visit when traveling through Europe.
Why Europe is Such a Great Region for Cheap Travel
Traveling to Europe needn’t be as expensive as you might have been led to believe. There are a few reasons why Europe has so many cheap destinations to visit and why it’s such a great place to travel on a budget:
- Variety of destinations: It’s a diverse continent with a wide range of destinations, including bustling cities, charming small towns, beautiful beaches, thick forests, snowy mountains, crystal clear lakes, and picturesque rolling countryside. This means you can find affordable options to suit your budget and interests.
- Public transportation: Most European cities have well-developed public transportation systems, which can be an affordable way to get around. This is especially true in countries like the UK, the Netherlands, France, Germany, and Italy, where trains and buses are popular and convenient options for travelers.
- Budget accommodation: Europe has many accommodation options to suit different budgets, from hostels and guesthouses to vacation rentals and budget hotels. Accommodation costs are generally whatever you want it to be, depending on what you are looking for. Most of these options are also a far cry from the typically dingy American roadside motel!
- Good value for money: In general, you’ll get good value for money in a number of regards. Many cities offer a wide range of attractions and activities at reasonable prices. Most cities also have free museums and other public attractions that don’t cost a dime.
- Food and drink: Europe is home to arguably the widest range of cuisines and local specialties anywhere in the world, many of which can be enjoyed at affordable prices. Street food, local markets, pubs, cafes, and tavernas are all great options for trying local flavors on a budget.
- New kids on the block: With enough time after the fall of the Berlin Wall to develop tourism industries, many Eastern European countries are now great budget destinations starting to see large numbers of visitors.
See Related: Travel Tips for Visiting Europe in Winter
What are the cheapest cities to visit in Europe?
Regarding travel, Europe is one of the most sought-after destinations. From bustling cities to quaint villages, it offers many places to explore. However, if you’re looking for a cheap city to visit in Europe, quite a few options are available.
Tallinn and Riga are some up-and-comers that I plan on returning to soon to check out the budget travel scene. The cost of living in these cities is significantly lower than that of other European cities in Western and Central Europe, making them ideal destinations for budget-conscious travelers.
Plus, they offer plenty of sightseeing opportunities and unique cultural experiences to their respective countries. Other cheap options include well-known cities in Eastern Europe like Poland’s Krakow or in Southern Europe like Greece’s Athens.
If you’re looking for the most bang for your buck, the Hungarian capital city of Budapest is the place to be. This magnificent city perfectly balances history, culture, fun activities, nightlife, delectable cuisine, and sights to see, all for an extremely modest budget.
Final Thoughts
With so many cheap cities to visit in Europe, it can be tricky to decide where to go on your next vacation. We hope our list has given you some inspiration for your next European adventure!
From the historical gems of Český Krumlov and Prague to vibrant cities like Istanbul and Sofia, there’s something here for every type of traveler looking for an affordable experience packed with culture, history, and beauty! So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!
FAQs
What is the cheapest country in Europe to visit?
The cheapest places to visit in Europe are generally found in the Eastern and Central regions of the continent. Countries such as Bulgaria, Lithuania, the Czech Republic, and Hungary are known for their low prices on accommodation and food while still offering plenty of things to see and do. Overall though, Hungary is often touted as the cheapest European country to visit.
What’s the cheapest city in Europe to visit?
Again, this one goes to our boy Hungary, with the incredible capital city of Budapest topping many lists as being the overall cheapest city to visit in Europe.
What is the least expensive way to travel around Europe?
There are many budget-friendly ways to get around the continent, such as taking the train or bus. Trains are often the most popular choice for travelers looking for a cheaper way around Europe.
Interrail passes offer discounts on multiple trips throughout the continent, allowing tourists to visit multiple cities at an affordable cost. Buses can also be a great option for those on a tight budget, but they usually take longer than trains and may not always be available in every region.
What is the least expensive way to travel to Europe?
If you’re flying in from the U.S., it’s a good idea to see if you can find some great deals with someone like Going (formerly known as Scott’s Cheap Flights) or Skyscanner. Layovers in Iceland are a good way to gain cheaper access to Europe. Just remember that staying in Iceland can be pretty expensive!
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