Hey wanderlust readers!
Are you looking to unlock the beauty of Europe without emptying your wallet? Don’t worry! The continent is brimming with budget-friendly destinations that offer unforgettable experiences without breaking the bank. From historic cities to breathtaking landscapes, Europe beckons the frugal traveler with open arms. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll unveil 15 affordable places to visit in Europe, each offering its own unique charm and allure.
Budapest, Hungary
The Hungarian capital, Budapest, often referred to as the “Paris of the East,” captivates visitors with its stunning architecture, thermal baths, and vibrant culture. Explore the grandeur of the Buda Castle, take a leisurely cruise along the Danube River, and soak away your cares in the famous Széchenyi Thermal Bath.
- Cheapest Time to Visit: Late fall (October to November) or early spring (March to April) when tourist numbers are lower and accommodation prices drop.
- Cost of Food and Accommodation: Budget travelers can expect to spend around $20-$30 per day on food, and $20-$50 per night for budget accommodation in hostels or guesthouses.
- Budget-Friendly Activities: Explore the city’s stunning architecture with a free walking tour, relax in one of the many public thermal baths for around $10-$20, or take a scenic hike up Gellért Hill for panoramic views of the city.
Check out this complete guide to public transportation in Budapest for another way to save money!
Prague, Czech Republic
Step into a fairytale world in Prague, one of my personal favorite affordable places to visit in Europe. In this city, medieval charm meets modern-day excitement. Lose yourself in the maze of cobblestone streets in the Old Town, admire the intricate astronomical clock in the Town Hall, and ascend to the heights of Prague Castle for panoramic views of the city below.
- Cheapest Time to Visit: Winter months (January to February) offer lower accommodation rates and fewer crowds, but be prepared for cold weather.
- Cost of Food and Accommodation: Expect to spend around $15-$25 per day on food, and $15-$40 per night for budget accommodation in hostels or budget hotels.
- Budget-Friendly Activities: Wander through the charming streets of the Old Town, visit the Prague Castle grounds for free (you an explore the grounds without paying for a ticket to enter the actual castle!) or explore the city’s many parks and gardens, such as Petřín Hill or Letná Park.
Check out this guide to public transportation in Prague!
Krakow, Poland
Immerse yourself in history and culture in Krakow, one of Poland’s oldest and most picturesque cities. Wander through the UNESCO-listed Old Town, visit the somber Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial, and marvel at the beauty of Wawel Castle, a symbol of Polish royalty for centuries.
- Cheapest Time to Visit: Shoulder seasons (April to May and September to October) offer mild weather and lower accommodation prices compared to peak summer months.
- Cost of Food and Accommodation: Budget travelers can expect to spend around $15-$25 per day on food, and $10-$30 per night for budget accommodation in hostels or guesthouses.
- Budget-Friendly Activities: Visit the Wawel Castle grounds for free or explore the historic Jewish Quarter, Kazimierz. Take a day trip to the nearby UNESCO-listed Wieliczka Salt Mine or Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial for around $10-$20.
Lisbon, Portugal
With its warm climate, stunning coastline, and vibrant culture, Lisbon offers the perfect blend of relaxation and exploration. Explore the narrow alleyways of the Alfama district, soak up the sun on the beaches of Cascais, and indulge in delicious pastries known as pastéis de nata.
- Cheapest Time to Visit: Winter months (November to February) offer lower accommodation prices and mild weather, although some attractions may have reduced hours.
- Cost of Food and Accommodation: Expect to spend around $20-$30 per day on food, and $20-$50 per night for budget accommodation in hostels or guesthouses.
- Budget-Friendly Activities: Explore the picturesque neighborhoods of Alfama and Mouraria, visit the Belém Tower or Jerónimos Monastery for around $5-$10, or relax on the beaches of Cascais or Estoril for free.
Athens, Greece
Embark on a journey through time in Athens, the cradle of Western civilization. Stand in awe of the ancient Acropolis and Parthenon, wander through the charming Plaka neighborhood, and savor the flavors of Greece at bustling tavernas serving traditional dishes like moussaka and souvlaki.
- Cheapest Time to Visit: Shoulder seasons (March to May and September to November) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds compared to peak summer months.
- Cost of Food and Accommodation: Budget travelers can expect to spend around $20-$30 per day on food, and $20-$40 per night for budget accommodation in hostels or guesthouses.
- Budget-Friendly Activities: Explore the Acropolis and other ancient ruins with a combined ticket for around $20, wander through the charming Plaka neighborhood, or take a day trip to the nearby island of Aegina for around $20-$30.
Bucharest, Romania
Discover the hidden gems of Bucharest, Romania’s dynamic capital, and one of the most seriously underrated affordable places to visit in Europe. Here the past and present collide in a fascinating tapestry of culture and history. Marvel at the grandeur of the Palace of Parliament, stroll through the peaceful gardens of Cismigiu Park, and sample hearty Romanian cuisine at local eateries.
- Cheapest Time to Visit: Late fall (October to November) or early spring (March to April) offer lower accommodation prices and mild weather, although some attractions may have reduced hours.
- Cost of Food and Accommodation: Expect to spend around $15-$25 per day on food, and $15-$30 per night for budget accommodation in hostels or guesthouses.
- Budget-Friendly Activities: Explore the historic Old Town with its charming streets and vibrant nightlife, visit the Palace of Parliament or Village Museum for around $5-$10, or take a day trip to the nearby Transylvania region for around $20-$30.
Sofia, Bulgaria
Dive into the rich history and vibrant culture of Sofia, Bulgaria’s capital city, nestled at the foot of Vitosha Mountain. Admire the golden domes of the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, wander through the ancient ruins of Serdica, and hike to Boyana Waterfall for a refreshing escape from the urban hustle and bustle.
- Cheapest Time to Visit: Winter months (December to February) offer lower accommodation prices and fewer crowds, although some attractions may have reduced hours.
- Cost of Food and Accommodation: Budget travelers can expect to spend around $10-$20 per day on food, and $10-$25 per night for budget accommodation in hostels or guesthouses.
- Budget-Friendly Activities: Visit the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral or National Palace of Culture for free, explore the Vitosha Mountain for outdoor activities like hiking or skiing, or take a day trip to the nearby Rila Monastery for around $10-$20.
Valencia, Spain
Bask in the Mediterranean sunshine in Valencia, a vibrant city bursting with culture, history, and culinary delights. Relax on the golden sands of Malvarrosa Beach, marvel at the futuristic architecture of the City of Arts and Sciences, and indulge in a paella feast at a local seaside restaurant.
- Cheapest Time to Visit: Shoulder seasons (March to May and September to November) offer pleasant weather and lower accommodation prices compared to peak summer months.
- Cost of Food and Accommodation: Expect to spend around $20-$30 per day on food, and $20-$50 per night for budget accommodation in hostels or guesthouses.
- Budget-Friendly Activities: Relax on the beaches of Malvarrosa or El Saler for free, visit the City of Arts and Sciences for around $10-$20, or explore the historic Old Town and Central Market for local cuisine and souvenirs.
Bratislava, Slovakia
Next on the list of affordable places to visit in Europe, you’ll experience the charm of Bratislava, Slovakia’s compact and picturesque capital, nestled along the banks of the Danube River. Explore the medieval streets of the Old Town, climb to the top of Bratislava Castle for panoramic views of the city, and unwind with a glass of locally-produced wine in one of the city’s cozy wine bars.
- Cheapest Time to Visit: Winter months (December to February) offer lower accommodation prices and fewer crowds, although some attractions may have reduced hours.
- Cost of Food and Accommodation: Budget travelers can expect to spend around $15-$25 per day on food, and $15-$30 per night for budget accommodation in hostels or guesthouses.
- Budget-Friendly Activities: Explore the charming streets of the Old Town, visit Bratislava Castle for around $5-$10, or take a boat cruise along the Danube River for around $10-$20.
Riga, Latvia
A hidden gem on the list of affordable places to visit in Europe: Lose yourself in the enchanting streets of Riga, Latvia’s vibrant capital, where medieval architecture, Art Nouveau masterpieces, and modern design blend seamlessly together. Explore the cobblestone lanes of the UNESCO-listed Old Town, marvel at the colorful facades of the Art Nouveau district, and sample traditional Latvian cuisine at a cozy local restaurant.
- Cheapest Time to Visit: Late fall (October to November) or early spring (March to April) offer lower accommodation prices and fewer crowds, although some attractions may have reduced hours.
- Cost of Food and Accommodation: Expect to spend around $15-$25 per day on food, and $15-$30 per night for budget accommodation in hostels or guesthouses.
- Budget-Friendly Activities: Explore the UNESCO-listed Old Town with its cobblestone streets and medieval architecture, visit the Art Nouveau district for around $5-$10, or take a day trip to the nearby resort town of Jūrmala for around $10-$20.
Seville, Spain
Immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of Seville, one of Spain’s most enchanting cities. Explore the narrow streets of the historic Santa Cruz neighborhood, marvel at the breathtaking architecture of the Alcázar Palace, and experience the passion of flamenco at a traditional tablao.
- Cheapest Time to Visit: Winter months (December to February) offer lower accommodation prices and fewer crowds, although some attractions may have reduced hours.
- Cost of Food and Accommodation: Budget travelers can expect to spend around $20-$30 per day on food, and $20-$50 per night for budget accommodation in hostels or guesthouses.
- Budget-Friendly Activities: Explore the historic Santa Cruz neighborhood for free, visit the Alcázar Palace for around $5-$10, or attend a flamenco show for around $15-$30.
Porto, Portugal
Discover the charms of Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city, renowned for its historic center, Port wine production, and stunning riverside setting. Wander through the labyrinthine streets of the Ribeira district, cross the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge for panoramic views of the city, and embark on a tasting tour of the city’s legendary Port wine cellars.
- Cheapest Time to Visit: Winter months (November to February) offer lower accommodation prices and fewer crowds, although some attractions may have reduced hours.
- Cost of Food and Accommodation: Expect to spend around $20-$30 per day on food, and $20-$50 per night for budget accommodation in hostels or guesthouses.
- Budget-Friendly Activities: Wander through the Ribeira district with its colorful buildings and riverside cafes, cross the Dom Luís I Bridge for panoramic views of the city for free, or take a river cruise along the Douro River for around $10-$20.
Split, Croatia
Explore the coastal beauty of Split, Croatia’s second-largest city, where ancient Roman ruins mingle with lively cafes and bustling markets. Stroll along the marble-paved streets of Diocletian’s Palace, relax on the sun-drenched beaches of Bacvice, and take a day trip to the nearby islands of Hvar and Brac for a taste of paradise.
- Cheapest Time to Visit: Shoulder seasons (April to May and September to October) offer mild weather and lower accommodation prices compared to peak summer months.
- Cost of Food and Accommodation: Budget travelers can expect to spend around $20-$30 per day on food, and $20-$50 per night for budget accommodation in hostels or guesthouses.
- Budget-Friendly Activities: Explore the ancient ruins of Diocletian’s Palace for around $5-$10, relax on the beaches of Bacvice or Žnjan for free, or take a day trip to the nearby islands of Hvar or Brac for around $10-$20.
Bansko, Bulgaria
Escape to the charming mountain town of Bansko, nestled at the foot of the Pirin Mountains, for a budget-friendly winter getaway. Hit the slopes at the Bansko Ski Resort, explore the historic Old Town with its quaint cobblestone streets and traditional tavernas, and unwind in the soothing waters of the thermal springs after a day of adventure on the slopes.
- Cheapest Time to Visit: Winter months (December to February) offer lower accommodation prices and fewer crowds, although some attractions may have reduced hours.
- Cost of Food and Accommodation: Expect to spend around $15-$25 per day on food, and $15-$30 per night for budget accommodation in hostels or guesthouses.
- Budget-Friendly Activities: Hit the slopes at the Bansko Ski Resort for around $20-$30 per day, explore the historic Old Town with its traditional tavernas and cobblestone streets for free, or relax in the thermal springs of the region for around $10-$20.
Tallinn, Estonia
Last but not least on the list of affordable places to visit in Europe, you’ll experience the medieval magic of Tallinn, Estonia’s picturesque capital, where cobblestone streets, Gothic spires, and ancient city walls transport visitors back in time. Wander through the enchanting lanes of the UNESCO-listed Old Town, climb to the top of Toompea Hill for panoramic views of the city, and indulge in hearty Estonian cuisine at a cozy tavern.
- Cheapest Time to Visit: Late fall (October to November) or early spring (March to April) offer lower accommodation prices and fewer crowds compared to peak summer months.
- Cost of Food and Accommodation: Budget travelers can expect to spend around $15-$25 per day on food, and $15-$30 per night for budget accommodation in hostels or guesthouses.
- Budget-Friendly Activities: Explore the UNESCO-listed Old Town with its medieval architecture and cobblestone streets for free, climb to the top of Toompea Hill for panoramic views of the city for free, or visit the nearby Kadriorg Park and Palace for around $5-$10.
By exploring these budget-friendly destinations, you can embark on a European adventure of a lifetime without breaking the bank. Whether you’re drawn to the historic charm of Prague, the coastal beauty of Split, or the mountain allure of Bansko, there’s something for every budget traveler in Europe. So pack your bags, set off on your journey, and prepare to create unforgettable memories in these affordable places to visit in Europe!
