Traveling in Europe doesn’t have to be expensive. There are many cheap places to travel in Europe where you can enjoy rich cultures, stunning landscapes, and historic sites without breaking the bank.
Whether you’re a backpacker, a family on a budget, or simply someone who loves a good deal, these destinations offer plenty of affordable adventures.
Let’s explore ten fantastic European cities where you can have an amazing time without worrying about your budget.
1. Affordable Adventures in Krakow, Poland
Krakow is a gem for budget travelers. Accommodations are affordable, and dining out won’t cost you much either. Visit the historic Wawel Castle, wander through the old town, and explore the fascinating history of this charming city.
- Affordable Accommodations and Dining: Krakow offers a variety of budget-friendly hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. You can find comfortable lodging options for as low as €10 per night. Dining is equally affordable, with traditional Polish dishes like pierogi and bigos available at low prices in local eateries.
- Key Attractions and Activities: Don’t miss the historic Wawel Castle, which dates back to the 14th century. The old town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, filled with medieval architecture and cobblestone streets. For history buffs, the Schindler’s Factory Museum provides a sobering look at World War II history.
- Cultural Experiences: Krakow’s cultural scene is vibrant and accessible. Attend a classical music concert in one of the city’s historic churches or enjoy the local art galleries. The annual Krakow Film Festival is also a great event for film enthusiasts on a budget.
2. Budget-Friendly Budapest, Hungary
Budapest offers a range of budget-friendly options. The public transport is cheap, and you can find reasonably priced accommodations. Don’t miss the thermal baths, Buda Castle, and the vibrant nightlife.
- Affordable Transportation and Lodging: Public transportation in Budapest is efficient and affordable, with a single ticket costing around €1.20. Budget accommodations, including hostels and budget hotels, are plentiful and start at about €15 per night.
- Must-See Sights and Experiences: The city’s thermal baths, such as Széchenyi and Gellért, offer a unique and affordable way to relax. Historical landmarks like Buda Castle and the Fisherman’s Bastion provide breathtaking views and photo opportunities. Walking tours are a great way to explore the city without spending much.
- Nightlife and Entertainment: Budapest is known for its vibrant nightlife, with many ruin bars and clubs offering cheap drinks and entertainment. Popular spots include Szimpla Kert and Instant. You can also enjoy free or low-cost cultural events and street performances throughout the city.
3. Exploring Prague, Czech Republic on a Budget
Prague is known for its picturesque streets and affordable prices. Enjoy the local cuisine without spending much, and take time to visit the famous Charles Bridge and the beautiful Prague Castle.
- Inexpensive Local Food and Attractions: Prague offers a variety of budget-friendly food options, from street food to traditional Czech restaurants. Try the local favorite, trdelník, a sweet pastry, or enjoy hearty dishes like goulash and svíčková. Budget-friendly attractions include the iconic Charles Bridge, Old Town Square, and the Astronomical Clock.
- Popular Landmarks and Things to Do: Prague Castle is a must-visit, offering stunning architecture and panoramic views of the city. The city’s historic neighborhoods, such as Mala Strana and Josefov, are perfect for leisurely strolls. Don’t forget to explore the beautiful Vltava River and its surrounding parks.
- Cultural Highlights: Prague’s cultural scene is rich and diverse. Visit the National Museum. Listen to classical music at the Rudolfinum.
Check out modern art at the DOX Centre for Contemporary Art. Many cultural venues offer discounted tickets for students and budget travelers.
4. Discovering Lisbon, Portugal on a Budget
Lisbon is a fantastic destination for budget travelers. It’s easy to find cheap flights and accommodations. Explore the historic neighborhoods, ride the iconic trams, and enjoy the city’s vibrant culture.
- Cost-Effective Travel Options: Lisbon is well-connected by low-cost airlines, making it an affordable destination. Using public transport, like the famous trams, is cheap, with a single ride costing about €3. Budget accommodations are easy to find, with hostels starting at €12 per night.
- Cultural Sites and Budget-Friendly Activities: Visit historic sites like Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, both UNESCO World Heritage sites. The Alfama district, with its narrow streets and traditional Fado music, is a must-see. Enjoy free activities like strolling through the beautiful parks and gardens, or taking in the views from the many miradouros (viewpoints).
- Local Experiences: Lisbon offers a rich culinary scene at affordable prices. Try traditional dishes like bacalhau (salted cod) and pastéis de nata (custard tarts). The city’s markets, such as Mercado da Ribeira, offer a variety of local foods and crafts at reasonable prices.
5. Sofia, Bulgaria: A Budget Traveler’s Dream
Sofia is one of the most affordable capitals in Europe. You can find cheap places to stay and eat. Visit the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the National Palace of Culture, and enjoy the city’s parks and mountains.
- Cheap Accommodation and Public Transport: Sofia offers a wide range of budget accommodations, from hostels to budget hotels, starting at around €10 per night. Public transport is also very affordable, with a single ticket costing about €0.80.
- Historical Sites and Local Experiences: Explore the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, one of the largest Eastern Orthodox cathedrals in the world. The National Palace of Culture is a hub for cultural events, exhibitions, and concerts. For outdoor enthusiasts, Vitosha Mountain offers hiking and skiing opportunities just outside the city.
- Affordable Dining and Entertainment: Sofia’s dining scene is both diverse and affordable. Enjoy traditional Bulgarian dishes like banitsa and shopska salad at local eateries. The city also offers a variety of free and low-cost cultural events, including open-air concerts and festivals.
6. Exploring Athens, Greece on a Budget
Athens combines history with affordability. Stay in budget-friendly accommodations and savor Greek cuisine at local tavernas. Explore the Acropolis and the ancient ruins that make Athens a living museum.
- Affordable Stay and Dining Options: Athens offers many budget accommodations, from hostels to budget hotels, starting at around €15 per night. Dining at local tavernas is affordable, with delicious Greek dishes like souvlaki and moussaka available for reasonable prices.
- Ancient Ruins and Cultural Attractions: The Acropolis is a must-see, with its ancient temples and stunning views of the city. Visit other historical sites like the Ancient Agora, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, and the Panathenaic Stadium. Many museums offer free entry on certain days, making it easier to explore Athens’ rich history.
- Cultural Experiences: Athens’ cultural scene is vibrant and diverse. Attend a performance at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, visit the National Archaeological Museum, or explore the contemporary art scene at the Benaki Museum. Many cultural events are free or low-cost, making it easy to enjoy Athens on a budget.
7. Riga, Latvia: Affordable European Destination
Riga is a perfect mix of culture and affordability. Enjoy low-cost flights, inexpensive lodging, and a wealth of attractions like the historic Old Town and the Art Nouveau architecture.
- Low-Cost Flights and Accommodations: Riga is well-connected by low-cost airlines, making it an affordable destination. Budget accommodations, including hostels and budget hotels, are plentiful and start at about €10 per night.
- Unique Places to Visit and Explore: Riga’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its medieval architecture and charming streets. The Art Nouveau district features stunning buildings and is perfect for a leisurely stroll. Don’t miss the Riga Central Market, one of the largest markets in Europe.
- Cultural Highlights: Riga offers a rich cultural scene with many free and low-cost events. Visit the Latvian National Museum of Art, attend a concert at the Latvian National Opera, or explore contemporary art at the Arsenals Exhibition Hall. The city’s parks and gardens are also perfect for relaxing and enjoying the outdoors.
8. Belgrade, Serbia: Economical European Adventure
Belgrade offers economical living and travel costs. The city’s vibrant nightlife, historical sites, and cultural events make it an exciting destination for budget-conscious travelers.
- Economical Living and Travel Expenses: Belgrade is one of the most affordable cities in Europe. Budget accommodations are widely available, starting at around €10 per night. Public transport is efficient and cheap, with a single ticket costing about €0.80.
- Vibrant Nightlife and Cultural Heritage: Belgrade’s nightlife is legendary, with many bars, clubs, and live music venues offering affordable entertainment. Visit historical sites like the Belgrade Fortress, the Kalemegdan Park, and the Church of Saint Sava. The city also hosts many free cultural events, including festivals and open-air concerts.
- Local Cuisine and Experiences: Belgrade offers a variety of budget-friendly dining options. Enjoy traditional Serbian dishes like ćevapi and pljeskavica at local restaurants. The city’s markets, such as Kalenic Market, offer fresh produce and local products at reasonable prices.
9. Bucharest, Romania: Affordable Urban Experience
Bucharest is full of history and charm, with budget-friendly lodging and dining options. Explore the Palace of the Parliament, stroll through the old town, and enjoy the local cuisine.
- Budget-Friendly Lodging and Food: Bucharest offers a variety of budget accommodations, from hostels to budget hotels, starting at around €10 per night. Dining is equally affordable, with local dishes like sarmale and mici available at reasonable prices.
- Historic Sites and Urban Experiences: The Palace of the Parliament is a must-see, offering a glimpse into Romania’s history and politics. The old town, with its historic buildings and cobblestone streets, is perfect for a leisurely stroll. Don’t miss the Romanian Athenaeum, a beautiful concert hall and architectural gem.
- Cultural Highlights: Bucharest’s cultural scene is rich and diverse. Visit the National Museum of Art, attend a performance at the National Theatre, or explore contemporary art at the MNAC. Many cultural venues offer discounted tickets for students and budget travelers.
Find more info at Romania Travel And Tourism website here.
10. Valencia, Spain: Enjoying Europe on a Budget
Valencia is known for its beautiful beaches and affordable prices. Stay in budget accommodations, enjoy the local paella, and visit attractions like the City of Arts and Sciences and the Central Market.
Valencia has cheap places to stay, like hostels and budget hotels, starting at €15 per night. The city is well-connected by low-cost airlines, making it an affordable destination.
- Beaches, Culture, and Budget Activities: Valencia’s beaches are a major draw, and they are free to visit. Enjoy the sun, sand, and sea without spending a dime. The City of Arts and Sciences is a must-see, offering a range of attractions at reasonable prices. Don’t miss the Central Market, where you can sample local foods and buy fresh produce.
- Local Experiences: Valencia’s culinary scene is rich and diverse. Try traditional dishes like paella, which originated in this region. The city’s markets and street food vendors offer delicious and affordable options. For a unique experience, visit during the Las Fallas festival, a lively and colorful event that takes place every March.
Find more info at Spanish Tourism website here.
Conclusion
Exploring Europe doesn’t have to be expensive. These cheap places to travel in Europe offer a wealth of experiences without draining your wallet. So pack your bags, set your budget, and embark on an unforgettable journey across these fantastic destinations.
Need Expert Advice?
Planning a budget-friendly trip to Europe can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. If you need help finding great deals on flights and accommodations, expert advice is just a click away. You can also get tips on how to make the most of your travel budget.
Contact us today for personalized travel planning and advice, and let’s make your dream European vacation a reality without breaking the bank.
