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13 Affordable Places to Visit in Europe — From Country Escapes to Stunning Cities

You can visit Europe on a budget — here's how.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

If you have big dreams of jetting off to Europe, but worry that your bank account isn't quite ready, don't worry. For every expensive city, there are dozens of charming — and surprisingly affordable — places that offer all the European charm for a fraction of the price. Ljubljana, Porto, Budapest, even Berlin — these cities have all the rich culture, stunning architecture, and delicious food that you'd find in pricey European capitals, but they're perfect for budget travelers.

You can even travel to some of Europe's best (and famously expensive) destinations without breaking the bank — you just have to know how to save money without sacrificing on experiences. Travelers can often score deals on flights from the United States to major cities like Paris or London, and upon arriving, transportation within Europe can be much more affordable (hello, budget airlines). Those large cities also offer a wide range of accommodations, so you can certainly find something in your budget. You can even save money on food by hitting the local markets. After all, a bottle of wine, fresh bread, and cheese from a Parisian market make for an unforgettable meal when picnicking under the Eiffel Tower.

And you might be surprised by how many museums, churches, and other attractions are free or inexpensive to visit, too. Be sure to keep an eye out for free entry days (often one day a month) or tourist cards that offer entry to multiple attractions for one flat fee. (Do the math ahead of time by calculating the cost of every included attraction that you want to visit to make sure it's really worth the money.)

Trimming your budget doesn't mean sacrificing the quality of your trip. Sometimes, the less you spend, the more you can immerse yourself in the local culture. Staying in a thatched Irish farmhouse, perusing old masters in Rome, or snacking your way through Spanish specialties aren't just tricks of the frugal traveler — they're the stuff dream vacations are made of.

Here are some of the top destinations for an affordable European vacation (and tips for saving money once you arrive).

Bavaria, Germany

For a storybook-worthy vacation in Europe, head straight to Bavaria. Book a room at Burg Colmberg , a 14th-century castle rising from a rocky crag above a tiny village. It offers an eclectic collection of rooms tucked throughout a warren of crooked hallways, hidden staircases, and cozy sitting nooks. Be sure to visit the postcard-perfect Neuschwanstein Castle , resplendently perched atop a mountain, and take the time to tour Hohenschwangau, the castle in which "Mad King" Ludwig II actually lived. The latter is a more modest pile of battlements on a smaller nub of a hill in the valley below. What it lacks in the carefully crafted pomp and circumstance of Neuschwanstein — which Ludwig II never lived to see completed — it more than makes up for in homeyness and history.

Puglia, Italy

Michela Sieman/Travel + Leisure

The iconic architecture of Puglia — the "heel" of Italy's boot — is the prehistoric trullo, a cylindrical whitewashed house with a cone-shaped roof of stacked gray stones. There's no greater concentration of trulli than in the UNESCO-protected town of Alberobello, where whole neighborhoods are made of the structures, and the local entrepreneur behind Trullidea has fixed up dozens of the abandoned ones and rents them to visitors. Cool in the baking summers and with cozy indoor heating for wintertime, a rental trullo lets you live like a local for less than the cost of a tourist-class hotel in town. Want to sample what the Amalfi Coast was like before the hotshots and high prices moved in? Puglia's forested Gargano Peninsula is popular with sun-loving Italians, but is otherwise refreshingly off the tourist map.

Budapest, Hungary

Alisha McDarris/Travel + Leisure

The capital of Hungary, Budapest offers all the charm of more popular European destinations for a fraction of the price. The Hungarian Parliament Building and Fisherman's Bastion are just a couple of the picture-perfect attractions you'll spot in the city, and you'll find lots of affordable accommodations, meals, and nightlife, too. Even the city's famous thermal baths — some of which are over a century old and feature beautiful architecture — can be affordable to visit.

Andalusia, Spain

Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure

Take a break from sizzling on the crowded Costa del Sol beaches for a self-guided driving tour along the route of the Pueblos Blancos. This string of clifftop, whitewashed villages stretches from the Moorish town of Arcos de la Frontera through the Sierra de Grazalema to Ronda, a maze of medieval streets perched above a 500-foot gorge. Opt for a stay in nearby Seville — the capital of Andalusia — to take in the beautiful architecture, watch some flamenco dancing, and indulge in classic tapas.

Berlin, Germany

Berlin has Cold War mystique, contemporary architecture, and booming gallery and restaurant scenes. With its cosmopolitan, East-meets-West edginess, it's no wonder the city has become a cultural capital of central Europe. It's a destination that continues to attract creative types and in-the-know travelers. Begin your trip to Berlin in the fashionable Mitte (or "middle") district, as it's convenient to major sites such as the Reichstag and Potsdamer Platz.

Bath and the Cotswolds, England

The charming villages of the Cotswolds look like they're straight out of a fairy tale — Chipping Campden, Stow-on-the-Wold, and Bourton-on-the-Water are among the prettiest. There are inns and pubs sprinkled throughout the little towns, but we'd suggest staying in Bath, a quaint city dating back to the Roman era, for its variety of accommodations. While there, check out the Royal Crescent, Pulteney Bridge, Bath Abbey, and of course, the historic Roman baths. Best of all, Bath is under two hours from London by train, making it an easy weekend trip from the city.

Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul's major state-run museums may charge hefty admissions, but the Great Palace Mosaic Museum, just behind the Blue Mosque adjacent to the Arasta Bazaar, costs only 60 Turkish lira (that's about $4). These delightful mosaic scenes of hunts, myths, animal battles, and everyday life in antiquity — boys riding a camel, a man milking his goat — once covered the floor of a large courtyard of the Palatium Magnum, the Great Palace built between the time of Constantine the Great himself and Justinian I (fourth to early sixth centuries). You can even cruise between the continents for an affordable price when taking the ferry.

Ljubljana, Slovenia

Take a tour of the architectural masterworks of prodigious local talent Jože Plecnik, who took the Secessionist Art Nouveau style he learned in Vienna back home (via Prague) to remake his native city along his own, idiosyncratic lines. Like Gaudí in Barcelona, Plecnik designed his buildings right down to the smallest fittings, like the Pegasus door handles on the entrance to the National and University Library. Plecnik designed a bit of everything around town, from the central market to the two flanking spans of Ljubljana's iconic Triple Bridge to the café-lined embankments of the Ljubljanica River. The city also has a number of incredible, affordable restaurants, and you can take a public bus (for a small fee) to nearby Lake Bled for a day trip.

The Dalmatian Coast, Croatia

Skip the overexposed island of Hvar for the walled medieval village on the Adriatic island of Korcula, purported home to Marco Polo. Korcula is more of a day-trip destination, and that means the tourist crowds thin considerably by sundown, leaving those who remain to relax in the cafés and stroll the narrow alleys. While every old city in Europe has an Old City historic district, Split has the only downtown actually carved from the carcass of an ancient Roman palace. When the emperor Diocletian left his throne in A.D. 305, he built a lavish palace on the Croatian coast to live out his days as head of the empire's eastern half. In the 1,700 years since, the ruins of his enormous structure have been colonized by the locals, the buildings turned into medieval town houses, and the emperor's tomb transformed into the cathedral.

Paris, France

Want to experience fabulous French cuisine on a budget? Opt for a midday splurge — many cafés and restaurants offer less expensive menus at lunch. And a picnic is always a good idea in Paris. Stop by a market to peruse the (typically) extensive options for cheese and wine, or pick up a simple yet delicious crepe from a stand. If you plan to visit the City of Light's top museums and attractions, you might want to invest in a Paris Museum Pass . For one fee (priced depending on the number of days you purchase), you can gain admission to top tourist spots like the Arc de Triomphe, Sainte-Chapelle, Panthéon, Louvre, Musée Rodin, and more, and you get to skip the ticket line. Talk about a win-win.

County Clare, Ireland

Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure

Avoid the tour bus-clogged Ring of Kerry for its neighbor to the north, County Clare, home to the dramatic Cliffs of Moher rising more than 700 feet from the crashing Atlantic waves; the weirdly eroded limestone landscape of the Burren, where prehistoric slab tombs perch on the rocky flatlands like miniature houses of cards; and Doolin, a blink-and-you'll-miss-it village that has become a popular destination for traditional Celtic music. Local pubs are the perfect evening stop for hearty (and usually affordable) Irish fare and — if you're lucky — live music.

Rome, Italy

Daniel Gorostieta/Travel + Leisure

Rome has more than 900 churches, all of them free, displaying great works of art and architecture by the likes of Raphael, Bernini, Caravaggio, Bramante, and Pinturicchio. And that's just the short list of artists contained in one church — the little-visited Santa Maria del Popolo. Other iconic landmarks, like the Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, and Rome's famous piazzas are all free to visit, too, and some museums offer free entry days, so check their websites for details.

Porto, Portugal

Paula Galindo Valle/Travel + Leisure

Portugal's northern city of Porto is among Travel + Leisure readers' favorite European cities, and once you visit, you'll see why. In Porto, visitors can admire the Art Deco architecture, sip port wine, and explore the walkable city on foot without going over budget. Plus, a day trip to the Douro Valley, a picturesque vineyard region along the Douro River, is worth the trek.

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11 of the cheapest cities to visit in Europe on a budget

These are the cheapest places to visit in Europe, and we’ve included the cost of a pint

Travel is well and truly back, people. Covid testing for tourists is increasingly being scrapped across the board, and travellers are practically being ushered into the once-bustling cities of   Europe . But the thing is, lots of us are still strapped for cash after two years of uncertainty. 

The good news is this: there are   plenty  of interesting and affordable locations on the Continent that you can visit without breaking the bank. Plus, a load of them are off the beaten track, meaning you won’t have to fight your way through crowds to find the best bits. We found out the average price of an Airbnb in each place, and cross-referenced that with data from  financial comparison site  Finder  to work out where you can get a discount pint, too. From the ruin-filled city of Argos in   Greece   to the foodie-heaven of Graz in   Austria , here are 11 of the cheapest cities to visit in Europe.

RECOMMENDED:   The 16 best city breaks in Europe for 2022

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Cheapest cities to visit in Europe

1.  Kraków, Poland

Festival vibes meet olde-worlde history in Kraków . We recommend packing in as many medieval sites as possible, and then getting stuck into a great night out. Try to plan your trip to coincide with one of the city’s many, many festivals, which range from the typical (think  Summer Jazz Festival  and the  Kraków Film Festival ) to the more obscure, like the International Soup Festival . Yum.

Average one-bed Airbnb: £59 ($77) Average pint: £2.15 ($2.82)

2.  Riga, Latvia

In Riga, it’s all about the art nouveau. The architecture is seriously beautiful, and there’s a huge, buzzy creative scene. Check out Putti , a modern gallery and events space, or Rīgas Birža for something more traditional. Looking for something less refined? The booze here is really cheap – so if you’re looking to let loose, head to the Old Town for all the most established bars. 

Average one-bed Airbnb: £49 ($64) Average pint: £2.76 ($3.66)

3.  Český Krumlov, Czech Republic

Český Krumlov is a lot like  Prague , but without the stag dos. Its labyrinthine, baroque streets all lead you, eventually, to the huge castle complex at the centre. It’s beautiful in summer, but for the really  picturesque views go in winter, when it’s blanketed in snow. Keep warm in one of the many cosy cafés, or try traditional food in one of the live music parlours. Not a rowdy bunch of blokes to be seen.  Average one-bed Airbnb: £76 ($99) Average pint: £1.44 ($1.89)

4.  Bucharest, Romania

Bucharest is great  if you’re looking for a good time. Don’t sleep on the nightlife, just make sure to avoid the overhyped bars near the centre and head for one of the sky bars instead. You can try (delicious, hearty) traditional food for bargain prices, too. Our reccomedation is the legendary Caru’ cu Bere  – order the grilled pork and a side of sauerkraut. Average one-bed Airbnb: £45 ($59) Average pint: £1.48 ($1.94)

5.  Belgrade, Serbia

Chaotic, gritty, packed and super cheap – Belgrade is anything but a quiet getaway location. Smokey dive bars and gig venues nestle in  old socialist architecture, competing for space in the once-desolate Savamala area, which is now home to a thriving culture scene. Head to Ada Ciganlija, a reclaimed island on the Sava river, if you’re looking to find a tiny, tranquil slice of nature.

Average one-bed Airbnb:  £39 ($51) Average pint: £1.53 ($2.01)

6.  Kaunas, Lithuania

Kaunas is going to be big this year. It’s one of the  European Capitals of Culture  for 2022, and an incredible 1,000 events are being planned to celebrate it. If you can’t make it to any of them, there are plenty of seriously impressive exhibition spaces open all year round, like the Mykolas Žilinskas Art Gallery . And if you want something a bit weirder, head to the seriously strange Devil’s Museum .  Average one-bed Airbnb: £58 ($76) Average pint: £2.90 ($3.81)

7.  Zagreb, Croatia

This city is made for walking – we recommend that you wander from the beautiful, sprawling main square to basically every sight. That’ll keep costs low, and your exposure to amazing sights high. If you do want to get your transport fix, though, jump on the funicular and head up the hill for unbeatable views. Or just hang out in one of the many, many cool cafés.

Average one-bed Airbnb: £51 ($66) Average pint: £1.82 ($2.39)

8.  Argos, Greece

Argos is one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world. Right in the heart of the Peloponnese, this is Greece as you imagine it: balmy  Mediterranean weather with archaelogical beauty sprawling as far as the eye can see. According to legend, it was literally ruled by the son of Zeus at one point, too. It’s largely off the tourist path too, so you can explore the ancient theatre ruins, the prehistoric castle and sixth-century BC Roman Agora in peace.

Average one-bed Airbnb: £38 ($49) Average pint: £3.66 ($4.80)

9.  Marsalforn, Malta

Head to this quaint fishing village  if you’re looking for a properly quiet break. Marshalforn isn’t a porthole-windows and artfully-placed-lobster-crate situation, it’s the real deal. The restaurants have lots of fresh fish and great ocean views, so we recommend you take a book, put on your sunglasses, and enjoy the sea breeze.

Average one-bed Airbnb: £57 ($74) Average pint: £2.09 ($2.74)

10.  Sofia, Bulgaria

Sofia is properly, properly gorgeous. The domed churches dotted around the city will be a guaranteed hit on your Insta, as will the elaborate mosques, Soviet statues and grand galleries. As most people overlook it in favour of Bulgaria’s ski slopes and coastline, you won’t feel crowded while you wander.  Average one-bed Airbnb: £46 ($60) Average pint: £1.37 ($1.80)

11.  Graz, Austria

Graz is one of Austria ’s unsung heroes. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site, as well as being annointed 2003's Capital of Culture and the 2008 City of Culinary Delights. For futuristic art, head to Kunsthaus Graz . The gallery is housed in a building known as the ‘friendly alien’ – you can’t miss its undulating, scaley form on the waterfront. 

Average one-bed Airbnb: £64 ($84) Average pint: £3.25 ($4.27)

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Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Europe Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 18, 2024

From beautiful Paris to smoke-filled coffeeshops in Amsterdam, Oktoberfest to La Tomatina, Europe is a massive, diverse continent with an unlimited assortment of things to see and do. You won’t have any problem filling your time, whether you’re backpacking Europe for a few months on a budget or just spending a few weeks there on a well-earned vacation.

The continent boasts wonderful beaches, historical architecture, amazing wine, and tons of world-class festivals. Every country is incredibly different from the next too, providing limitless variety in what you do during your trip.

I first backpacked Europe in 2006 and was hooked immediately. I’ve been visiting every year since, have run tours around the continent, and even wrote a book on traveling in Europe . It’s a destination I love and never get tired of exploring.

This guide will give you an overview of Europe and the tips and tricks you need to start planning your trip. I’ve also written extensive travel guides to each country on the continent (linked below in this post) so you can get more in-depth information for your specific itinerary too!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Europe

Click Here for Country Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in europe.

1. Tour the Greek Islands

These islands are the mecca of summer beach fun and each is unique in its own great way. There’s Ios (beach party central with archeological ruins and awesome boat tours); Kos (ancient ruins and nature); Crete (Bronze Age ruins of Knossos, hiking, beaches, and wine), Santorini (iconic blue water, white buildings, and local wineries); Mykonos , (the upscale party island with beautiful beaches, villages, and sunsets), Naxos (best island in the Cyclades). Plus, Milos, Corfu, Lemnos, Zakynthos, and so many more! With hundreds of islands in the country, you can always find what you are looking for!

2. Ride the rails

Europe is famous for its international rail system. Rail passes like the Eurail Pass have been around forever and still make it very easy to get from country to country on a relatively small budget (and with lots of flexibility). Europe has some of the fastest trains in the world that travel up to an incredible 217 mph (350 kph). The whole continent is connected by trains and there’s a growing push for even more connections and long-distance, high-speed trains in order to reduce flying and help combat climate change. There’s nothing more quintessential than riding the trains in Europe and I encourage you to take as many trains as possible. It’s one of the best ways to see the continent.

3. Get lost in Paris

The “City of Lights” is everything people say it is. I fell in love with it the first time I stepped foot in Paris . The city is just magical. You have a ton of museums, cafes, jazz clubs, famous art, and beautiful architecture. I love just strolling around the streets of the Quartier Latin (Latin Quarter) or Montmartre neighborhood as it makes for a breathtaking day. Another one of my favorite things to do here is just sit in the Jardin des Champs-Élysées park and picnic like the Parisians. For something a bit different, check out the famous Catacombs and Paris Sewer Museum. With so much to offer in the way of culture, history, and gastronomy, it would take years to see everything here but you can still get a good feel of the city in a few days.

4. Go city hopping

There are so many amazing cities in Europe that we’d need a top 100 to list them all. Here are some of my personal favorites and must-see cities: London is rich in history, culture, and the famous Big Ben clock; Edinburgh is a vibrant medieval city with cozy pubs and a famous castle with a huge New Year’s Eve Party; Amsterdam has cozy coffee shops and canopied tree-covered canals; Berlin has a wild party scene, street art, and the Berlin Wall; Barcelona has tapas, beach, and unique Gaudi architecture; coastal Lisbon has colorful tiles, old tramcars, cobblestone streets and plenty of fresh seafood; Prague has a beautiful intact Old Town, incredible architecture and eclectic bars; Tallinn Estonia has beautiful medieval buildings with colorful roofs. Florence  is a mecca for Italian Renaissance architecture, art history, and gelato; Stockholm mixes medieval architecture and modern art and design. Crisscross the continent, take in the culture, and enjoy all the historic cities!

5. Hit the Alps

Whether you go skiing in the winter or hiking in the summer, the Alps hold some of the most breathtaking views in all the world. You don’t even need to be an expert hiker because there are mountain trails for all levels and crystal-clear Alpine lakes. Check out the spectacular Eibsee trail loop in Bavaria at the foot of Die Zugspitze, Germany’s tallest mountain, for the clearest, multi-colored, sparkling lake you’ve ever seen. Or the Männlichen Kleine Scheidegg Panorama trail in Switzerland’s stunning green and snow-capped Alps. Or visit Italy’s Dolomites in South Tyrol for the scenic Seceda trail. The Alps have trails for every fitness level and in every season.

Other Things to See and Do in Europe

1. tour amsterdam.

I love Amsterdam so much that I lived here for a short period of time in 2006. Here cobblestone and brick streets weave around lovely canals as people ride their bikes to and fro. My favorite things to enjoy here are Amsterdam’s vibrant art and music scene and there are also a ton of interesting museums here like the Anne Frank House, FOAM, the history museum, and the hemp museum. Be sure you get out of the center into Jordaan and Oost with their wonderful outdoor cafes and fewer tourists. Also, a visit to Amsterdam wouldn’t be complete without a canal cruise to visit the many islands and there are many to choose from that include snacks and drinks, sunset cruises, live guided tours, and more.

2. Hang out in Barcelona

Barcelona is a city that goes 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It truly could give NYC a run for the “city that never sleeps” title. Be prepared for late-night dinners and parties until dawn. Besides a great food and nightlife scene, there is a wonderful beach, tons of Gaudi architecture (including the fairytale-like Parc Güell, as well as the iconic Sagrada Familia , which has been under construction for over 100 years!), incredible food tours, one of the best history museums in the country, and lots of outdoor spaces. What I love about Barcelona is that when you’re ready to chill, you can wander around Parc de la Ciutadella and marvel at the majestic fountains, plant life, and buildings created from an ornate military fortress.

3. Visit Berlin

Hip and trendy Berlin is an energetic destination. It is one of Europe’s most affordable capital cities, with a vibrant music and art scene and a growing foodie movement. Be sure to spend some time learning about the city’s darker history via the many excellent museums, memorials, and landmarks. The East Side Gallery, a section of the Berlin Wall that’s now painted with murals, and the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe are two especially powerful reminders of Germany’s past. For all periods of German history, don’t miss the Deutsches Historisches Museum (German Historical Museum) – it’s one of the best history museums in the world. Once you’ve had your fill of history, relax in Berlin’s many green spaces, from Tempelhof Field, the site of a former airfield and popular local hangout spot, to Tiergarten, a tree-covered former hunting ground for 17th-century aristocrats.

4. Drink beer at Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest is a must for anyone going to Germany at the end of September. While not a budget option since beers now cost 15 € a maß, I love the energy and friendly camaraderie this event inspires. For two weeks, millions of people from all over the world gather for lots of beer, excitement, music, and wild fun. Watching thousands of people sing together, raising quart-sized beer mugs for endless toasts, and enjoying the general party atmosphere makes you feel good about the world. (Or maybe that’s just the beer?) Just be sure to book your accommodation well in advance and be prepared to pay top prices for them. If you don’t have an outfit, don’t worry, there are plenty of shops even at the main train station where you can buy a Bavarian dirndl dress and men’s lederhosen.

5. Experience London

Get a taste of English culture in diverse London . The museums here are some of the best in the world (most are free) and include the Tate, the British Museum, the City Museum, the National Gallery, the Historical Museum. There’s no shortage of iconic sights here as well, with Big Ben, the House of Parliament, the London Eye, the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, and of course, Buckingham Palace. I love London’s diversity because of the countless international eateries with great food and wonderful pub culture, perfect for after a long day seeing the sights. Head to Brick Lane on the weekends for some amazing food and craft markets. I prefer Paris to London, but there is something sophisticated and fun about London. Just watch those pints — London is not a cheap destination!

6. Get outdoors in Scandinavia

My favorite region in Europe is Scandinavia. The quality of life here is high, the people are beautiful and friendly, and the cities are clean and historic. Cycling the cities, taking canal tours, hiking the vast forested areas, archipelago hopping, enjoying fika (a Swedish coffee break), and warming up in saunas are just a few of the popular activities that await you here. True, this area of Europe is not cheap, but there are plenty of ways to reduce your expenses. Don’t let the high prices scare you away. Highlights for me include Copenhagen , Stockholm , Gotland, Norway’s fjords, and Lapland in Finland .

7. Get enchanted in Prague

Prague has an amazing history and is one of the most beautiful and picturesque cities I’ve ever seen. Highlights include the 9th-century Prague Castle, the magnificent Charles Bridge (built in the 14th century and one of the oldest standing bridges in the world), the 10th-century old square with its iconic astronomical clock, and the winding Jewish Quarter. Even if you only have a few days there don’t miss the free walking tour which is one of my favorites in Europe and the best way to learn about the Old Town and the tragic history of the city that went from thriving Bohemian capital of art, music, and literature to part of the Iron Curtain after WWII. Some of my favorite gems here include the fantastic black light theater shows in 4D and the one-of-a-kind medieval dinner show in an old tavern complete with musicians and jugglers not to mention hearty food and drinks. During the weekends it heaves with people enjoying the bars, cheap beer, and delicious food so try to visit during the week (and in the spring or fall) to beat the crowds.

8. Relax on the French Riviera

Here, you can pretend to live the high life for a little bit. Have fun in the sun, relax on the beach, swim in azure blue water, hobnob with the rich and famous, and sail on (or gaze at) gigantic yachts. As for cities, Nice is nice with its palm-tree-lined promenade, old town, and many art museums. If you want to go see how the rich and famous live, spend an afternoon checking out Cannes to soak up some glamorous vibes on La Croisette where they hold the famous Cannes Film Festival. The kingdom of Monaco with its tiny streets, beautiful buildings, and world-famous casino is just a skip away too.

9. Enjoy the great outdoors in Interlaken

Located in the beautiful mountains of Switzerland, Interlaken is a gorgeous place to unwind with fantastic hiking, delicious hot chocolate, and plenty of outdoor sports. The area is full of natural attractions to explore, including the St. Beatus Caves (complete with a legendary dragon), the cascading 500-meter-high (1,640 feet) Giessbach Waterfalls, the Jungfraujoch mountain railway (which leads to the highest train station on the continent), and a plethora of lakes (hence the town’s name). It’s a good alternative to all the cities and museums. Interlaken is also a popular party destination for backpackers and other young travelers. By far, my favorite scenic and visually stunning trail was the Oberberghorn panoramic hike, where you can wander the green mountain ridge ogling the amazing views and the turquoise-blue Brienzersee.

10. Experience history in Rome

In this thriving historical city, you can’t walk two feet without stumbling over a ruin, making Rome a history buff’s dream. Its tiny streets are perfect for wandering as you explore the Colosseum, see the Forum and Palatine Hill, visit the Pantheon, spend time in Vatican City, admire the Spanish Steps, and toss coins into the famous Trevi Fountain. The skip-the-line tickets can definitely be worth it so you don’t waste time waiting outside attractions. Rome also has amazing food (it’s Italy, after all) and nightlife. Visit the Trastevere area for a taste of “local” Rome and chill bars. It’s my favorite area in the city because you feel like you’re in a small village in the middle of a big city.

11. Hike around the Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is my favorite part of Italy. These five beautiful cliffside towns are perched near warm waters and beautiful olive and grape groves. There are wondrous and strenuous hikes in these hills; for a real challenge, take trail #8. Or just walk the coastline for something less difficult. Many activities here revolve around the coastline: kayaking, swimming, having a beach picnic or visiting the Technical Naval Museum. If you happen to be here in December or January, don’t miss the Nativity Manarola, the world’s biggest lighted nativity scene.

12. Tour Krakow

Krakow looks like it stepped out of a medieval postcard. It’s a hip, trendy, and youthful city that’s the center of education in Poland, meaning there are a lot of university students here. Most travelers come to party here (the vodka is cheap) but try to enjoy the city’s history and food besides just the bars. Walk the Royal Road through the Old Town to the 13th-century Wawel Castle, tour Schindler’s Factory (where Schindler saved over 1,200 Jews during World War II), and visit the sobering Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp. You can also take a fascinating day trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Wieliczka Salt Mine, a 13th-century mine with cavernous chambers, statues, chapels, chandeliers, and cathedrals all carved out of salt.

13. Visit the ruin bars in Budapest

The coolest nightlife in all of Europe is found in Budapest . Built in abandoned buildings, ruin bars feature funky art installations, repurposed furniture, and quirky decor. They are amazing, fun, and great places to meet locals, as people of all ages flock here. Open since 2001, Szimpla Kert is the original ruin bar and one of my favorites, along with Instant-Fogas Complex, which takes up an entire building and is actually many different bars in one. Don’t skip the ruin bars — they’re one of the most unique things about the city!

14. Explore Cornwall

The best part of England is outside London, yet unfortunately, not a lot of travelers leave London. Head west to the area of Cornwall for cheaper prices, welcoming locals, natural beauty, great hiking, rolling hills, plenty of medieval castles, and picturesque small towns. If you like biking, the Camel Trail from Bodmin to Padstow is worth the trip and you even pass by a local vineyard. It’s an easy way to spend a day (and it’s pretty flat so it’s not too hard to do.) Plus, I had the best fish and chips in Cornwall! Overall, it’s what you think of as “traditional England.”

15. Walk the Camino

El Camino de Santiago (The Way of Saint James) is an ancient pilgrimage route that stretches from France all the way across northern Spain. It is a 500 mile (800 km) trail that winds through incredible terrain, ending in Santiago de Compostela at the cathedral where St. James is supposedly buried. As a pilgrim, you get a “pilgrim’s passport” which allows you to stay in affordable pilgrim-only hostels, making this a surprisingly budget-friendly adventure. While it usually takes over a month to complete, you can just walk a section if you don’t have the time. To receive a “Compostela” (certificate of completion), you just need to walk the last 62 miles (100 km), which generally takes 4-5 days.

16. Throw tomatoes during La Tomatina

By far my favorite festival, the largest food fight in the world happens during the last Wednesday of August in Bunol, Spain. What started in 1945 as a local brawl has turned into a massive event drawing tens of thousands of people from all over the world. For about an hour, everyone throws tomatoes at each other, leaving streets ankle-deep in tomato juice. Afterward, everyone walks down to the river, cleans off, and then heads to the town square for sangria and music.

17. Find Dracula in Romania

Not a lot of people visit Romania but this underrated country in Eastern Europe has undiscovered yet picturesque medieval towns like Brasov (home to “Dracula’s castle”), Sighisoara, and Sibiu; gorgeous beaches on the Black Sea; and incredible hiking in the Fagaras Mountains — all at dirt-cheap prices. Other major sights include frescoed Byzantine monasteries, the steepled wooden churches of Transylvania, the hip university town Cluj-Napoca, the post-communist capital of Bucharest, and the Danube Delta, a huge nature reserve.

18. Drink whisky in Islay

Whisky has a long history on Islay , an island off Scotland’s west coast. It’s been made there since the 16th-century — first in backyards and then, starting in the 19th-century, in large distilleries. Over the years, whisky from the island came to be considered a specialty and was used to flavor a lot of other blends on the mainland. There are currently nine working distilleries on the island, all located along the island’s shores, with Laphroaig, Ardbeg, and Lagavulin being the most famous. Most distilleries here make single-malt Scotch, meaning that only one type of grain (barley) is used. My visit here was amazing and, even if you don’t like whisky, there are tons of good hikes and walks throughout this magnificent island.

19. Explore Iceland

Iceland is a magical country with majestic waterfalls, hidden hot springs around every corner, and sweeping vistas unlike anywhere else in the world. After my first visit, the country quickly became one of my favorite countries. With whale watching in the summer, the northern lights in the winter, and geothermal baths for soaking in year-round, there really is no bad time to visit! While Iceland’s main draw is the epic natural landscapes, it’s worth spending a couple of days in Reykjavik with its café culture, artsy feel, and brightly colored wooden row houses.

20. Sail the Croatian coast

With calm winds, short distances, a coastline littered with over 1,000 islands, and countless historical sites, Croatia is one of the world’s best sailing destinations. If you can, go during the shoulder season when you can find some great deals. Plan to stay at least a couple of days on one of the islands, with the most popular being Brac, Hvar, Krk, Cres, and Lošinj. However, don’t be afraid to get off the beaten path and explore some of the lesser-known islands such as Silba, Vis, and Lastovo. If you want to splash out and spend a week partying on a yacht, check out The Yacht Week, which hosts week-long parties, complete with DJs, from May-September. You can book a full boat to share with friends or just a cabin if you’re traveling solo. Prices start at 5,250 HRK per person and go up to 9,300 HRK.

21. Explore the Balkans

While the Balkans have become more popular with backpackers in recent years, it’s still largely overlooked by most budget travelers, despite being an extremely budget-friendly region. The Balkan peninsula is home to great (and again, overlooked) wine, beautiful medieval towns like Kotor and Mostar, stunning mountainous landscapes, beautiful pebble beaches, coffee culture, fresh, hearty yet inexpensive food, and museums covering the area’s history, including the most recent turbulent events of the early 1990s. I especially loved my time in Albania . Don’t miss the beautiful beaches in Ksamil, nicknamed the “Maldives of Europe’ as well as the mountain village of Gjirokastër, which was occupied by Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans. The Balkans have so much to offer for every budget and every country has its unique cultural flavor.

22. Take a wine tour in the Loire Valley

Located in central France, the picturesque Loire Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site and stretches 280 kilometers (174 miles) along the Loire River. One of the major wine-producing regions of France, the area is home to some of the best wines in the world, with over 1,000 vineyards open to the public. Even those who don’t drink wine will enjoy the beautiful small towns, great food, and the region’s over 300 impressive chateaux. I loved the medieval Chenonceau Castle and Chateau Villandry and the small villages like Saint-Florent-le-Vieil. Spring and Autumn are my favorite times to visit because you can go biking and do outdoor activities when it’s not too hot and there are fewer people. It’s an area not to be missed.

23. See Fado in Portugal

Fado is an important musical tradition in Portugal , originating in Lisbon and stretching back some 200 years. The word “fado” likely stems from the Latin word for fate, and it’s very haunting, poetic, and emotional music. Most of the songs follow themes of loss and mourning, and the music was popular with the working class (especially sailors). Performances normally take place in restaurants during dinner. In Lisbon, head to Clube de Fado, Tasca do Chico, Parreirinha de Alfama, or Senhor Vinho.

24. Tour green Slovenia

Slovenia is one of Europe’s least-visited destinations, which is mind-blowing to me because it’s an amazing place to visit. Slovenia offers all the beauty of Western Europe but at a fraction of the cost and with a fraction of the crowds. Perfect for outdoor adventure lovers, Slovenia offers rugged mountains, untouched landscapes, fantastic ski resorts, plentiful wine, sprawling cave systems, incredible food, and postcard-perfect lakes, such as the famous Lake Bled with its castle on an island. I loved Piran, Slovenia’s often overlooked coastal Venetian-style harbor town that was actually founded 3000 years ago. Stroll around its beautiful windy cobble-stoned streets, beautiful plazas, and take advantage of the many affordable restaurants right on the water. Make sure to also spend a few days in the country’s capital, Ljubljana, known as one of the continent’s greenest and most livable cities. Take a river cruise to see the city and enjoy the friendliness of the locals.

  For more information on specific countries in Europe, check out the guides below:

• Albania Travel Guide
• Austria Travel Guide
• Belgium Travel Guide
• Belarus Travel Guide
• Bosnia & Herzegovina Travel Guide
• Bulgaria Travel Guide
• Czechia Travel Guide
• Croatia Travel Guide
• Denmark Travel Guide
• England Travel Guide
• Estonia Travel Guide
• Finland Travel Guide
• France Travel Guide
• Germany Travel Guide
• Greece Travel Guide
• Hungary Travel Guide
• Iceland Travel Guide
• Ireland Travel Guide
• Italy Travel Guide
• Latvia Travel Guide
• Lithuania Travel Guide
• Malta Travel Guide
• Moldova Travel Guide
• Montenegro Travel Guide
• Netherlands Travel Guide
• Norway Travel Guide
• Portugal Travel Guide
• Poland Travel Guide
• Romania Travel Guide
• Scotland Travel Guide
• Slovakia Travel Guide
• Slovenia Travel Guide
• Spain Travel Guide
• Sweden Travel Guide
• Switzerland Travel Guide
• Ukraine Travel Guide

Europe Travel Costs

Accommodation – Accommodation prices vary greatly by region. In Western Europe, hostel dorm rooms cost between 25-45 EUR per night, depending on the room’s size and the popularity of the hostel. I stayed in a 6-bed dorm in Berlin for 20 EUR, while the same one would have cost me around 45 EUR in Paris. A room in Paris costs on the higher end and a room in cheaper Athens costs on the lower end.

In Eastern Europe, hostel dorm rooms cost between 10-15 EUR per night depending on the size of the dorm room and the popularity of the hostel. The further east you go, the cheaper it gets. Expect to pay around 30-60 EUR per night for a private room that sleeps two.

In Scandinavia, hostel dorm beds cost around 25-45 EUR, while private rooms are 65-80 EUR. Budget hotels start around 85 EUR.

Most accommodations offer free linens, free Wi-Fi, and a lot offer free breakfast, but it’s important to check specific websites for exact amenities.

Campsites cost between 10-15 EUR per night for a basic plot for two without electricity.

Food – Food traditions in Europe run deep, stretching back centuries to become integral parts of each country’s culture. From baguettes in France to tapas in Spain, from hearty Eastern European stews and goulash to the fresh vegetables and olive oils of the Mediterranean, European cuisine varies as much as the countries themselves. Food prices differ greatly across the continent, so check individual country guides for specifics.

But no matter where you are, even in the more expensive countries, finding places to eat within your budget is easier than you might think. Throughout Western Europe, you can find small shops, street food stalls, or food trucks where you can get sandwiches, gyros, kebabs, slices of pizza, or sausages for between 3-7 EUR. These shops are most often found in train stations, bus stations, and main pedestrian areas, and offer cheap food alternatives that can have you eating on 12-17 EUR per day. Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 7-10 EUR for a combo meal.

Turkish, Middle Eastern, and Vietnamese eateries abound in Germany, while Indian food is incredible and everywhere in the United Kingdom. Meals at these restaurants usually cost between 8-12 EUR.

Restaurant meals in casual, traditional eateries generally cost around 13-25 EUR for a main dish and drink. Food is much cheaper in the east than in the west, and in the west, northern regions like Scandinavia and the UK are more expensive than southern countries like Spain, Portugal, and Italy.

In Eastern Europe, even if you are eating out for all your meals, you can still get by on a food budget of as little as 15 EUR per day.

For drinks, a pint of beer is 2-5 EUR, a glass of wine is 2-7 EUR, a cappuccino is 2-5 EUR, and cocktails range from 6-14 EUR.

If you eat out, do so at lunch and get the prix-fixe menu (two-course or three-course set menu). Restaurants offer this set menu during lunch, and with prices between 10-20 EUR, it’s a way better deal than the regular dinner menu. You can also get affordable lunches at outdoor markets. So many European cities have huge fresh food markets throughout town.

You can cook your own food for around 45-65 EUR per week. This gets you basic staples like rice, pasta, seasonal produce, bread, and some meat. You can save money by shopping at discount supermarkets like Profi, Lidl, Aldi, and Penny Market.

If you want to save big money on meals, head to one of the markets, pick up some cheese, wine, bread, meats, or anything else, and go to the park for a picnic. (Or grab a sandwich for later!) You’ll find the locals doing the same thing, and it’s one of the cheaper ways to get a true taste of local food.

Backpacking Europe Suggested Budgets

Prices for travel in Europe vary greatly depending on how far north, east, south, or west you travel. If you stick to the budget accommodations, food, and tours listed here and use all my tips on saving money, you need about 65-110 EUR per day in Western Europe, 40-50 EUR in Eastern Europe, and about 85-130 EUR in Scandinavia.

Those numbers reflect a traveler who stays in hostels, cooks some meals and eats out cheaply, enjoys a few drinks, and sticks to free and cheap activities like hiking, walking tours, and enjoying nature. This is your typical backpacker budget. You aren’t going to have a fancy time, but you aren’t going to want for anything either.

However, by getting tourist cards and rail passes, avoiding flights, occasionally Couchsurfing or camping, cooking all your meals, and not drinking, you can travel a lot cheaper. On this budget, you could do Western Europe on 35-45 EUR per day, Eastern Europe on 20-25 EUR, and Scandinavia on 50-65 EUR. That would require you to take a train or a bus or hitchhike everywhere, skip most museums, and limit how often you go out.

Generally, the suggested daily budget for Europe is 80-120 EUR. You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need to budget daily. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Europe Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Individual country guides have more specific information on how to save money in them but here are some general tips on cutting your costs while you explore Europe:

• Picnic – This continent has a lot of little shops where you can buy pre-made sandwiches or ingredients to make your own. Many supermarkets have delis as well where you can get food to go. Buy some food, eat outside, and watch the city and its people go by. It’s a much more enjoyable and cheaper way to eat.
• Eat local and cheap – Not into picnicking? Eat at local sandwich shops, pizza parlors, Maoz, Wok to Walks, and outdoor street vendors. Avoiding restaurants and eating at a lot of the local “grab n’ go” places gives you a taste of the local cuisine at a much cheaper price. If you’re really on a budget, use your creative cooking skills to prepare meals at the hostel as well.
• Stay with a local – Hostels can add up really quickly. If you don’t have any friends with whom you can stay, consider using Couchsurfing , which connects you with locals who let you stay with them for free. Plus, they tend to also have meetups to meet other locals and travelers. It’s a great way to save on accommodation and meet a local who can share their insider tips and advice.
• Camp in a garden – A very good camping service specific to Europe is Campspace , which allows you to pitch a tent in someone’s backyard for free or for a small fee (around 10-20 EUR). All of the garden owners have profiles that tell you what services and facilities they offer. Also, many countries allow wild camping (like Sweden), which can save you a fortune if you have a tent.
• Take the bus – Budget bus companies like Flixbus can take you across the continent for cheap. I personally feel it’s best for day travel as sitting up for an overnight bus isn’t really ideal for sleeping. It isn’t glamorous, but with tickets starting at 5 EUR, you really can’t complain!
• Get a Rail Pass – Eurail Passes have saved me hundreds of dollars. If you are traveling far distances and through many countries, they are a great deal.
• Take the free city tours – One of the great things about Europe is that you can find free walking tours in all the major cities. They can be a great way to see the city attractions, take in some history, and learn your bearings without spending any money. Just make sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Plan accordingly – Plan your trip around Europe so you avoid doubling back. Transportation is a big expense so proper planning can save you a lot of money (and time). Go in a straight line or a loop. Booking your accommodation ahead helps you save as well since cheap, good places unsurprisingly get reserved first. One thing I’ve learned is that waiting until the last minute means you get stuck with expensive places or cheap places no one wants.
• Fly cheap – If you know where you are going and a train won’t do, try to book flights early. You can often get round trip fares for as little as 5 EUR from many of the European discount airlines like Ryanair or Wizz. Many capital cities have smaller airports farther from the city with ‘inconvenient’ times but cheaper fares. Keep in mind you might need to factor in an early morning Uber or taxi if the busses aren’t running and you have an early flight!
• Drink less – Those 5 EUR beers add up. Hit happy hours or pick and choose when you party. Hostel bars are a good place to get cheap drinks or buy your alcohol at the supermarket. Plus, in Europe, it’s legal to drink outside in parks, plazas, by the lakes or rivers. You’ll find you can save a lot of money by not going to bars and clubs. Partying your way across the continent will destroy your bank balance in no time.
• Get a city tourist card – Many local tourism offices sell a tourism card for all their attractions, tours, and restaurants. This card gives you free entry and substantial discounts on all the attractions and tours in a city, free local public transportation (a huge plus), and discounts at a few restaurants and shopping malls. They save a ton of money. If you plan on doing a lot of sightseeing, get one of these cards.
• Rideshare – If you’re flexible in your schedule, use the ridesharing service BlaBlaCar to catch rides with locals between cities (or countries) by paying a small fee. It’s like Airbnb but for rides. I used this service in Switzerland and, not only did I save a lot of money, but I got to meet interesting people and learn about local culture and life. Drivers are verified and it’s perfectly safe, though sometimes rides cancel at the last minute (which is why you need to be flexible). Check their ratings first and try to use rides where the person has done many trips.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water is safe to drink in most of Europe, so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.
• Get a HostelPass – HostelPass is a discount membership for hostels in Europe. Members get 10-20% off select hostels around Europe, as well as perks like free breakfast or free drinks. There are discounts on tours and activities too. It’s a great way to save money if you’re bouncing around Europe as they have hostels in 18 countries around the continent.

Where to Stay in Europe

Europe has a ton of budget accommodation options. The individual country and city guides have tons of recommendations but here’s a short list of some of my favorite budget hostels and hotels around Europe:

• The Flying Pig (Amsterdam, The Netherlands)
• Hotel 54 (Barcelona, Spain)
• Generator Hostel (Copenhagen, Denmark)
• Harcourt Hotel (Dublin, Ireland)
• Castle Rock (Edinburgh, Scotland)
• Ios Palm Pansion (Ios, Greece)
• Greg and Tom’s Party Hostel (Krakow, Poland)
• Largo da Sé Guest House (Lisbon, Portugal)
• Sophie’s Hostel (Prague, Czech Republic)
• The Yellow (Rome, Italy)
• City Backpackers (Stockholm, Sweden)

How to Get Around Europe

Public transportation – Transportation around most European cities is by tram, subway, or bus. Prices are typically around 2 EUR for a one-way ticket in Western Europe and closer to 1 EUR in Eastern Europe. Most large cities also have day passes available that offer unlimited public transportation. These passes are usually 5-12 EUR per day.

In large cities with international airports, there is usually a bus or train available that ferries travelers from the downtown core to the airport. Expect to pay around 5-15 EUR to get to/from the airport.

Bus – Buses are not quite as comfortable as Europe’s trains, although certain lines do have great amenities (like roomy seats and Wi-Fi). While buses are not the most efficient way to travel around the continent, they’re certainly dependable, reliable, and cheap. You can find last-minute rides for as little as 5 EUR. A route from Berlin to Munich is about 25 EUR, while Paris to Bordeaux can be as low as 10 EUR. Longer routes, like Amsterdam to Copenhagen, start at around 47 EUR.

Each country has its own national bus service, but some lines also take you long distances internationally. Megabus and Flixbus (which now owns Eurolines) are the most popular companies.

Train – Train travel is a great way to see Europe. Intercity train prices vary wildly from country to country, depending on whether you take the slow train or a high-speed train and how far in advance you book. For example, a high-speed train from Berlin to Munich costs around 38-60 EUR, Bordeaux to Paris is about 50-85 EUR, and Madrid to Barcelona ranges from 45-85 EUR. Non-high-speed trains and other intercity lines are a lot cheaper, generally costing about 40-50% of the price of high-speed trains. Eastern Europe inter-country trains usually cost between 45-100 EUR when the ticket is booked last minute. Short train rides of 2-3 hours within countries cost about 27 EUR.

To find routes and prices for trains around Europe, use Trainline .

You may also want to consider getting a Eurail Pass , which allows travelers to explore Europe by providing a set number of stops in a specific time period. These passes are continent-wide, country-specific, or regional. It can potentially save you hundreds of dollars.

Ridesharing/Car sharing – If your schedule is flexible, use a ridesharing service and catch rides with locals between cities (or countries). Drivers are verified and it’s perfectly safe. BlaBlaCar is the most popular.

If you’d rather rent a car yourself and find passengers to share a ride with, use Discover Cars to find the best car rental prices.

Flying – Budget airlines are so prolific that competition helps keep fares low. You can often find tickets where the fare is just 5 EUR round-trip! Companies like EasyJet, Ryanair, Wizz, and Vueling offer mind-blowingly cheap flights throughout Europe. Book at least a month early to scoop up great deals.

Make sure that the airport they fly into isn’t too far out of your way (transportation from the secondary airport sometimes negates the savings from using the budget airline itself).

Keep in mind that you’ll have to pay to check your baggage on these cheap flights. It costs about 25-39 EUR for one checked bag. If you wait to pay for your luggage at the gate, you end up paying almost double. Travel carry-on only to avoid this added cost.

Hitchhiking – Hitchhiking in Europe is very safe, but it’s not for everyone. Hitching is quite common around the continent and I’ve met a number of travelers who have done it (I, myself, traveled this way in Bulgaria and Iceland). Some countries are very supportive (Romania, Iceland, Germany) while others may be a bit more time-consuming (Italy, Spain). HitchWiki is the best website for hitchhiking info.

Here are my suggested articles for how to get around Europe:

• 7 Cheap Ways to Travel Across Europe
• Are Eurail Passes a Giant Scam or Do They Save You Money?
• The Ultimate Guide to Finding Cheap Flights

When to Go to Europe

There’s no wrong time to visit Europe. Peak season is summer, when Europe gets crowded and August is the time most European families are at the beach so everything becomes more crowded and expensive. But the overall atmosphere and weather are great during this time, so it’s still worth visiting during peak season (just book your accommodation in advance — especially in August). Keep in mind it’s much hotter in summer so if you like AC, be sure to check that your hostel or hotel has it before you book. You can expect the most crowds in Western Europe. For this reason, I feel summer is a great time to visit the Balkans and the Baltics because many people head to the beaches in Spain, France, Italy, Croatia, and Greece.

Shoulder season is spring and fall (April-May and September-October). It’s still warm during this time but there aren’t as many crowds and prices are cheaper. This is my favorite time to visit hotspot places like Spain, Croatia and Greece, where it’s still hot enough to swim in the sea but you have way more room on the beach. It’s also a good time to go hiking in the Alps in Germany, northern Italy, Slovenia and Switzerland because it’s cooler during the day so you’re much less sweaty on the mountain without shade. The weather is good, the crowds are smaller, and the prices lower.

Winter is from November to February but in much of Central Europe, it’s wet and cold until March or April. It gets cold, even as far south as it gets (like Greece). On the other hand, the Christmas season has Christmas markets and festivals galore! Even if it’s cold, this is a cultural tradition you can’t miss and why I love Europe in December. There is hot mulled wine, sweets, and plenty of hot snacks, which vary by country. One of my favorites is Prague because the Old Town Square is lit up with a gigantic tree with aromas of crispy cinnamon pastries and mulled wine. Berlin takes their Christmas markets very seriously, so there are around 80 different markets with special themes.

Winter is fantastic in Europe for skiing and snowboarding but it doesn’t have to break the bank if you plan carefully. While Switzerland and France are probably the most famous, they are also expensive, but there are plenty of budget winter options.

How to Stay Safe in Europe

Europe is very safe for backpacking and solo traveling, even if you’re traveling solo, and even as a solo female traveler. Violent crimes against tourists are very rare. In fact, some of the safest countries in the world are in Europe. (I wrote a whole article about how Europe is safe to visit right now .)

That said, there are scams and petty crimes you should watch out for, especially around popular tourist landmarks. The most important thing to be aware of is pickpockets in crowds and on public transportation. Zip your bags and don’t put your mobile phone in a jacket pocket where someone could quickly take it. This should be obvious but don’t flash your money to let everyone know you have a huge wad of cash.

When choosing a hostel, look for ones with lockers. It’s always a good idea to carry around a padlock or combination lock. Most hostels are safe and travelers respect each other and I’ve rarely seen things happen to people’s valuables. Nevertheless, I always think that prevention is better.

As anywhere, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). When at the bar, always keep an eye on your drink. Avoid walking home alone at night if you’re intoxicated.

For female travelers in particular, it’s always a good idea to have a bit of extra money on you just in case you need to take an Uber or taxi back by yourself so you don’t take unnecessary risks to save money. If you’re using apps to date people while traveling, please use common sense and meet in public places. Since I’m not a female traveler, please check out the numerous female bloggers who have first hand knowledge of this.

If you’re worried about scams, you can read about common travel scams to avoid here.

If you rent a vehicle, don’t leave any valuables in it overnight. Break-ins are rare, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Be aware that the UK drives on the left and that most rental cars in Europe will have manual transmissions unless you request otherwise.

When hiking, always bring water, sunscreen, and bandaids or foot plasters. There is nothing worse than being halfway up the mountain with a blister and nothing you can do about it!

Likewise, when at the coast, don’t forget not only to wear sunscreen! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen people get burnt to a crisp the first day. Be sure to check the weather before you depart and dress accordingly.

If you do experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary to loved ones so they know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Europe Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

GO DEEPER: Nomadic Matt’s In-Depth Budget Guide to Europe!

While I have a lot of free tips on Europe, I also wrote an entire book that goes into great detail on everything you need to plan a trip here on a budget! You’ll get suggested itineraries, budgets, even more ways to save money, my favorite restaurants, prices, practical information (i.e. phone numbers, websites, prices, safety advice, etc etc), and cultural tips.

I’ll give the insider view of Europe that I got from years of traveling and living here! The downloadable guide can be used on your Kindle, iPad, phone, or computer so you can have it with you when you go. Click here to learn more about my book on Europe!

Europe Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more tips for your trip? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Europe travel and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hotels in Florence

The 7 Best Hotels in Madrid

The 6 Best Hotels in Vienna

The Best Walking Tours in Barcelona

How to Be a Digital Nomad in Europe

The Best eSIM for Traveling Europe

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

Cheapest Nicest: 10 European Cities to Visit on a Budget

By Anna Prendergast

Getting to Europe is expensive these days—by the time you're there, you might feel like you can't afford to do anything. Fear not, some of the cheapest cities in Europe can be just as exciting as a Venice or a London (some of the continent, and the world's, more expensive places to spend time). There's some equally beautiful tourism spots where you can get around much more cheaply. We've broken down some of the latest data to find the cheapest cities in Europe to visit in 2023. A coastal cosmopolis, snow-capped city, and more await without breaking the bank.

Note: you’ll notice some wonderful European cities missing from this list, namely Kiev in Ukraine . It has been tragically affected by the war in Ukraine, and should be avoided until safe to visit – until then, find out how to help the people of Ukraine right now.

Athens, Greece

This year’s Post Office City Costs Barometer ranked Greece’s historical capital as the cheapest location for an autumn city break in Europe, and noted that priced have dropped by 15 per cent since 2021. Hotels in Athens are of particularly good value, with plenty of small, family-run and boutique spots. According to the survey, two nights at a three-star hotel for two guests average $110–but super-central One Three One is steps away from Monastiraki Flea Market and goes as low as $68 per night, while guests will find balcony views of the acropolis at Hotel Adonis, which has a rooftop terrace and costs as low as $102 for a double room (breakfast included).

Lisbon, Portugal

While the pretty Portuguese capital is known for its award-winning restaurants , travelers can still dine out on a dime–after Athens, it’s the cheapest city for a three-course meal (averaging around $50). On the move, you’ll get change from a two-euro coin when buying coffee or a mandatory pastel de nata from Pastéis de Belém, a beer costs around $3 (putting London’s £6 pints to shame) and a $0.75 Viva Viagem card can save you up to half off tram journeys. For a place to stay, there are plenty of affordable hotels in Lisbon . We love Hotel 1908 , where smart rooms in one of the city’s most iconic buildings can be booked from $160 per night. Or you can save further by opting for an Airbnb. Some of the city's top trending Airbnbs, like this pretty apartment with a private balcony in Lapa , can be taken over for around $60 per night.

Klagenfurt, Austria

Klagenfurt is one of Austria’s most affordable cities to visit (main courses are around $7; the farmers’ market on Benediktinerplatz is a great place for local bargains), and its spectacular setting on the eastern bank of Lake Wörthersee makes it one of the most scenic, too. June is the cheapest time to go, before the summer crowds and wild swimmers descend on the waterfront.

Kaunas, Lithuania

Vilnius has long been topping lists of the cheapest places to go on holiday, but Kaunas to the west is even less expensive, and earlier this year was named as one of 2022’s European Capitals of Culture for its music, art and theatre. Its yearly CityTelling Festival hosts a wide variety of performances and exhibitions that place the city’s Jewish heritage centre stage, and access to most events is free, while four-star hotel rooms are as little as $75 a night. For the best views of the Baltic city, a funicular up Aleksoto Hill will cost just a couple of euros. The best bargain in town? Spurginė’s $0.92 spurgos (or doughnuts).

Shannon McMahon

CNT Editors

Hannah Towey

Riga, Latvia

According to the Post Office, Riga is one of the cheapest cities in Europe, coming in a close second after Dublin for culture and Athens for accommodation. Wind your way through the narrow alleyways of the charming Old Town, find €2 samsas for lunch at the central covered market located in converted Zeppelin hangars, watch free live music in Dome Square and see striking architecture such as the House of the Blackheads ($7 entry) and the medieval Swedish Gate. But one of the most underrated ways of seeing Riga is on the water–rent a paddleboard for just $18 on the banks of the Daugava River.

Berat, Albania

Like Puglia’s trulli or Chefchaouen’s all-blue buildings, Berat’s unforgettable white Ottoman houses are totally unique in their collective existence and visual impact. The simple, traditional rooms inside also provide a super-affordable way to stay here, as many are guest-houses or independently-run hotels, such as Hotel Vila Aleksandar or Hotel Mangelemi , both around $43 per night. Head up the steep cobblestoned streets to see the 13th Century Berat Castle (entry is free) and take in the ‘town of a thousand windows’ from the top.

Brașov, Transylvania, Romania

A cheaper alternative to Bucharest (which is still, by European standards, incredibly good value), Brașov is surrounded by the scenic Carpathian Mountains. A cable car up to the top of Mount Tampa costs just 20 lei ($4.20) for aerial views of the brick-red rooftops, whilst local tour operator Walkabout provide a free walking tour every morning at 10.30am, setting off from the fountain in Piata Sfatului. Pick up local delicacy kürtőskalács (a spit-roasted, sugar-covered ‘chimney cake’) to maintain your energy levels from the stall nearby.

Sofia, Bulgaria

Not only did Bulgaria take the lead (side by side with Turkey ) as cheapest all-round destination in Europe in the Post Office’s Holiday Money Report 2022, but the country is also home to some of the world’s cheapest ski resorts. Sofia, the capital, is just over 10km away from the Vitosha Mountains which provide impressive winter conditions for snow bunnies and cost a fraction of the price of resorts in France or Italy. Wine and Bulgarian beers are notoriously cheap, and downtown Sofia is known for its high-energy party atmosphere. Entry to clubs is seldom more than $13, with live DJ sets and late-night events at Maze or Culture Beat (which also has a great summer terrace for cocktails).

Izmir, Turkey

Travelers to Turkey can get great value for money. On Turkey’s Aegean coast, Izmir has resisted the price hikes of Istanbul and tourist traps of Ankara whilst preserving its 8,500-year-old Kemeraltı bazaar and ancient Roman agora. The historic sites and architectural relics coexist with cosmopolitan culture and traditional cuisine–try pide on the pier or baked potatoes with a choice of toppings at Atıştır Café. An hour out of town is Ephesus, an ancient city built by the Greeks and well worth a detour.

Tbilisi, Georgia

Whilst the transcontinental city of Tbilisi is the most expensive place to live in Georgia, by European standards it’s exceptionally affordable for holidaymakers. A cascade of new hotels have opened in the last few years, such as the lovely Guest House Lile with double rooms from $25 per night. Foodies should book a table at Barbarestan, a family-run restaurant with authentic recipes and local ingredients, where you can eat for around £40 each – not bad for somewhere given a nod by the crew behind the World’s 50 Best Restaurants .

This article originally appeared on Condé Nast Traveller U.K. All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

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Home » Budget Travel » How to Travel Europe Cheaply: Get Around on a Budget in 2024

How to Travel Europe Cheaply: Get Around on a Budget in 2024

The most important step to becoming a badass broke budgeteer: learn the wicked ways of the low-cost lifestyle. Meaning, HOW exactly to travel on the cheap-o. 

And there’s no better way to get used to budget backpacking than learning how to travel Europe cheaply .

Europe is a great teacher in the ways of penny-pinching. Compared to other popular backpacker digs like Southeast Asia and South America, Europe is expensive as hell. You’re usually only one careless “treat yo’ self” away from backpacker bankruptcy. Everything has a cost: even using a public bathroom!

That means you have to be wise and wily with the way you spend your dollars.

Luckily, there are many ways to slash your astronomical Europe budget down to shreds and have a grand old time traipsing across the old continent, while spending relative pennies!

Transport is easily one of the biggest expenses on your trip. So, today I’m teaching you, dear young padawans, the ins and outs of travelling around Europe on the cheap.

On the cheap – and even, believe it or not, FOR FREE.

10 Ways to Get Around Europe on the Cheap

No money no problem.

Learning how to travel Europe on a budget comes down to a few tricks: cook your own food, stay in hostels or couchsurf, and take advantage of free things to do (each European country has heaps!).

However, when you’re trying not to break the bank, transportation may often be your Achilles’ heel, your downfall, and your sweetest enemy. Here are the best ways to travel Europe on a budget.

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1. Catch a Cheap Bus

Taking the bus is probably the cheapest way to travel around Europe. It’s easy to find budget options all over Europe – even for long distances.

One of the most popular options for cheap bus travel is Flixbus . It’s an operator so efficient, it is quickly swallowing up other smaller national low-cost bus operators all over Europe. 

Flixbus has probably the most extensive options: over 2,500 destinations across 35 countries (even Turkey!).

And my dude, just wait till you see their prices. They’re staggeringly low! I once took a 14-hour bus ride across the entire northern Spain to France for just $30.

Other great options are Eurolines (everywhere), Megabus (the UK), and Lux Express (the Baltics). Many countries also have their own low-cost buses mostly operating nationally, like Polskibus in Poland and Onnibus in Finland.

You can always find deals, but your best bet on dirt-cheap tickets is to book early. There is a limited amount of the cheapest discount tickets for each route.

Bonus tip: Take the word of a seasoned backpacker when I say that night buses SUCK. However, they save you a night’s accommodation cost. Plus, they make sure you’re not wasting precious daylight hours on travel time if you’re only travelling for a short time.

EDITOR’S NOTE!!!

Bookaway is another supreme service that we strongly recommend for booking routes and rides across Europe. HOWEVER, their service isn’t available in  all European nations. Your best bet is to check out both services, compare prices and services available, and choose the best (and cheapest) for you!

2. Get Railed with a Train Pass

Travel around Europe by train , also known as interrailing, is a super popular way of backpacking across Europe. 

Few other places have a similar opportunity for train travel. Europe has very extensive rail networks, and usually, its trains are clean, fast, and comfortable. (At least in Western Europe – who the hell knows what’s up with the Communist-era clunks clanking around post-Iron Curtain countries.)

In Western Europe though, rail travel gets EXPENSIVE. It’s not out of the question to have to splash $60 for a simple cross-country ticket. That’s why a lot of broke train travellers get a rail pass that lets them get serious discounts on their journeys.

Using a rail pass does come with a bit of planning. Usually, they’re restricted to a certain region or cluster of countries, and their prices depend on which countries you want to check out. (More expensive countries have more expensive rail passes.)

They also come with conditions. You can only have a certain amount of travel days within a time frame. (E.g. 10 travel days in two months.) That means that you can use the pass for unlimited free travel for 10 days over a period of two months.

Getting a rail pass is not worth it everywhere in Europe. If you mainly plan to hop to countries that are not covered by the rail pass, or that don’t have great rail networks, you can get by fine without one. 

Also when you’re adventuring somewhere like Eastern Europe and the Balkans, the few train options you have are already cheap. That might mean overspending by getting a pass.

However, if you plan to check out places like France, Germany, and Austria, a rail pass is a great addition to your Europe packing list . And it saves you a lot!

3. Catch Flights, Not Feelings

Listen, no other place does low-cost flying quite as well as Europe. The prices for low-budget airlines can be absolutely RIDICULOUS. Route prices start at around $8 – no kidding. When I still lived in Finland, a return flight between my city and London was half the price of a one-way train to my hometown!

So, low-cost airlines are definitely worth checking out if your plans include hopping between countries on different sides of Europe.

Some of the most popular low-budget airlines in Europe are:

There is an art to finding cheap flights . But you’ll get a hang of it quickly. My favourite sites for finding and comparing flight prices are Skyscanner and Momondo.

I highly recommend checking airlines’ own websites around holidays as well. Around Christmas and Black Friday, you can find huge discounts.

Sadly, there is no such thing as an almost-free lunch. Low-fare airlines make their money through extortionate extra fees. Everything costs – from meals onboard to even printing your boarding pass at the airport. Checked baggage can cost $30+, and some charge extra for “big” cabin luggage as well.

4. Share a Ride with a Merry Stranger

Travelling solo? So are many others! Cut costs and maybe make a friend on your intercity travels.

When you think of rideshare apps, you probably think of Uber. Taxi apps are dope for getting around cities in Europe on the cheap for sure.

Mostly getting a cab through an app is cheaper than on the street. Uber operates in many European countries, plus there are tons of smaller operators in different countries and regions.

So, rideshare apps are cool beans in cities. What about between cities? 

Europe also has platforms that allow private people to publicly post their upcoming trips. They post that they’re going to Marseille, you get in touch, and ka-ching ! You’ve got a cheap-ass ride to another town. Note that this is not digital hitchhiking; you’ll have to split travel costs with the driver and other passengers.

The absolute best platform for long-distance rideshares is BlaBlaCar . I found it the best cheap way to travel around Spain and France, but it’s also available in 16 other countries in Europe. BlaBlaCar doesn’t actually have any of its own cars; it’s just a platform connecting drivers and passengers.

If BlaBlaCar doesn’t tickle your fancy, it’s always possible to find rideshares and carpooling through other ways as well. Try posting a note on your hostel’s info board, or find a rideshare group on Facebook for the country that you’re in.

5. Go Drive Yourself

Living the vanlife in Europe is many backpackers’ dream. And it can easily be one of the cheapest ways to travel Europe if you’re exploring countries like Switzerland or Norway.

My motorbike-loving friends won’t stop raving about how great it is to ride your bike down the wide-open highways across Europe. (Somewhere in the distance, Born to Be Wild starts playing…)

Plus, driving yourself gives you the greatest flexibility to stop at cute roadside towns. You can come and go as you please without being held behind by such measly human inventions as – pssht – bus schedules. Bonus points if you camp along the way to cut costs even more.

If you’re planning on a self-directed adventure, there are a few things to consider before launching off:

• You’ll either need an international driver’s licence or an EU licence
• Taking rental cars over the country border is usually not allowed . So they’re best for single-country stretches. You also have to return them to the same office where you picked them up or pay an abysmal extra fee.
• Toll fees stack up! Set up your GPS to avoid toll roads. (But make sure that it doesn’t direct you to completely stupid roads – speaking from experience…)

In the end, you might do campervanning or motorbiking more for the experience than the price. You’re not only paying for the car; petrol, parking, and insurance fees rack up.

While rentals can be very cheap, they can also be very, very expensive. $20 a day in Greece is not too bad if you can split that with a travel buddy. But paying $50 a day in Madeira by yourself is gonna make even the toughest traveller cry bitter tears. So if you’re gonna live the vanlife across Europe, find a smart purchase or rental (not cheap – cheap cars don’t last), and get good at the van-bum life: it’s a good life. 🙂

6. Thumbs up, Everybody

You might’ve thought you dreamed it but there IS a legit way to travel Europe for free. That way is called hitchhiking ! Is this the cheapest way to see Europe? Potentially definitely.

Hitchhiking has long been one of my favourite ways of adventuring. And the scene is especially boomin’ and bloomin’ in Europe.

It’s not for everybody: you gotta be at least a bit of a social butterfly to keep your gracious rides entertained with small talk (and big talk, if it comes to that). 

This becomes especially fun when you don’t speak the same language. But let me tell you, it’s surprising how much you can find out about someone’s family, hobbies, and life just through a few universal words and body language.

And sure, hitchhiking is not completely without its risks, either. I’ve done lots of kilometres in strangers’ cars as a solo female traveller . While 95% of the people who pick you up are just simply kind human beans, I’ve had a few creepy encounters as well.

The best countries to pick up lifts are in Central and Eastern Europe. The worst luck I’ve ever had has been in Spain and Germany – basically Western countries with a lot of motorways that are unsuitable for stopping for thumb-riders.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

7. Compare, Compare, Compare!

No one ever said budget travel in Europe was easy. Counting pennies comes with a lot of time spent crouching over your phone screen, figuring out the routes that are going to save you the maximum amount of time and money. Trip planning takes effort.

Sometimes booking through the airline’s or railway’s own website is the cheapest option; sometimes the best deals are found on third-party websites. Occasionally, a train can actually be a lot cheaper than a bus.

Sometimes – and this is a secret most hardcore shoestring sailors won’t tell you – it’s just simply better to choose the more expensive option, for the sake of pure convenience and your sanity.

Rome2Rio is a great planning tool when you’re trying to find routes from city to city and can give you approximate prices on both buses and trains. But you have to book tickets on the sites of the operators themselves. Omio (former GoEuro) shows you comparisons between train, bus, and air travel, but doesn’t actually show all available tickets from low-cost operators.

8. Take a Hike, Buddy

When you’re thinking about how to travel around Europe cheaply, long-distance hiking is actually a very viable option. If you can find a free camping spot, all you end up paying for is your food.

Obviously, it’s hard to cover long distances on foot. It IS slow as hell, but it is one of the most rewarding ways to travel I’ve ever tried.

Europe is a hikers’ wonderland. Long, well-established trails can be found almost in all countries, and many long-distance trails stretch over borders as well. Long-distance hiking might be an option for you if you’re already reasonably fit, you’re prepped for hiking abroad , and can carry all your stuff in one bag.

I’ve walked the famous Camino de Santiago across Northern Spain. While it did take over a month, it was a fantastic way to get a more detailed look into the life on the Spanish Northern Coast.

I’ve also hiked long stretches of Via Dinarica, a long-distance hiking trail going from Slovenia to Kosovo, and can vouch for it being one of the BEST ways to experience the Balkans .

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

9. Wheels Away

Are you a fan of the Queen song Bicycle Race? Then you’re probably a biking enthusiast.

Travelling long distances on a bicycle, AKA bikepacking, is becoming more and more popular in Europe. In general, Europeans LOVE biking which means that most cities are pretty bicycle-friendly.

Covering large-ish distances on a bike is not a superhuman feat either. You’ll likely encounter other adventurous cyclists around Europe too.

Some of the best destinations for bikepackers in Europe include Denmark, the Netherlands, France, and the UK. You can combine your biking adventures with camping to cut costs even more. Just make sure all your stuff fits in the bike bags, that you have a good bike for long-distance biking , and that you bring heaps of happy vibes with you.

10. Travel Eastern Europe

Okay, technically this isn’t a method of getting around… But it is possible to travel around Europe really damn cheaply if you head to the right side of the map. I’m talking about backpacking Eastern Europe , of course.

Most first-time backpackers head to Europe’s most touristed capitals to see the Colosseums and Mona Lisas that they know so well from other people’s stories. Eastern Europe might not have as many famous attractions as the most popular destinations but it has a LOT going for it.

Delicious food, fairytale towns, lack of hordes of tourists, excellent mountainage, and fascinating history? Sign me the fuck up.

Oh yeah, it’s also super cheap to travel. In some of the cheapest countries in Europe like Bulgaria, North Macedonia, or Georgia, you can spend as little as $20 per day!

Lastly… Travel Insurance is Very Much Recommended

It might seem counterintuitive to spend more money to save money. But trust me, travel insurance is the one thing that’s going to save you HEAPS if you ever end up needing it.

A savvy budget traveller should always consider getting a good travel insurance policy before leaving home. Health care in Europe is not usually full-bankruptcy-expensive (looking at you, USA…) but you never know what can happen on your adventures. Hospitalised by dodgy booze? Fell out of your top bunk? Bitten by a manic street dog?

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Travelling Europe really doesn’t have to feel like highway robbery. When you get the basics of budget travel in Europe down, spending the most minimal amount of money possible becomes second nature!

One thing that’ll surprise you about pro-level budgeting is that it’s hard work. 

It takes a lot of time and effort to compare different route options and read through hostel reviews to make sure that booking cheap doesn’t mean that you’ll also book shitty. 

When you’re hitchhiking and couchsurfing, you have to always be socially ON. (An introvert’s nightmare that can even terrify some real social butterflies like myself.) If you start noticing symptoms of a traveller’s burnout – it’s time to take a break.

Even when you’re travelling Europe on a shoestring budget, I always recommend having what I like to call “the fuck-it fund”, for days when you just gotta say, “ fuck it, I’m booking into a hotel” . A few days of stress-free spending makes for one happy budget backpacker and means that you get to keep going at your low-cost adventures all refreshed.

Travelling on a budget in Europe is not always the easiest feat. But as you’ve seen now, there are a lot of infrastructures that helps heaps if you’re trying to watch your spending.

And the best part? Everyone else is on a budget too! Bonding over shared cheapskating is a truly unique way to make friends on the road.

So gather up your pennies, book a budget bus, and get travelling!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Elina Mattila

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i found it super hard to travel cheap in europe, everthing is just expensive 😀 i also start using this app ” ATM Fee saver” and i can highly recommend it to you! its briliant you will save some money on those ATM over there… check it out for further travels

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The Cheapest Ways to Travel Europe, According to a Cheapo Who Loves Traveling Europe

Last Updated: October 27, 2023

*FYI - this post may contain affiliate links, which means we earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase from them. Also, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Check out our Privacy Policy and Disclosure. for more info.

What’s the cheapest way to travel Europe?

After 7 years of bouncing around Europe as a) a backpacker, b) a broke student and now c) a restless expat, this is a question I’ve relentlessly sought the answer to.

My first taste of European budget travel was during my first ever backpacking trip around Western Europe. I had travelled from Paris to London, two major bucket list cities of mine, for less than the price of 6 Chicken Nuggets.

It was exhilarating. My mind was blown… and I suppose you could say, that’s when a monster was born.

Save these cheap ways to travel Europe for later!

You’ll be very, very glad you did. (Your wallet will be too!)

When I returned a year later as an exchange student, I took advantage of budget travel options to go absolutely insane and indulge in weekend trips anytime I could.

Along the way I discovered wild deals like 5 euro bus tickets to Paris, 20 euro roundtrip tickets to London, 40 euro roundtrip tickets to MOROCCO.

Not to be dramatic: but a whole new world – nay, a whole new ME – emerged. Since moving back to Europe, I’ve continued to take advantage of the countless cheap options out there – after all, why spend extra when you don’t need to?

That’s why I want to share with you my top tips today, lifting the veil on the cheapest way(s) to travel Europe.

You can also click here to download a free checklist that breaks down my process for finding the cheapest ways to travel from Point A to Point B every time. Enjoy!

PRO TIP: I always use Omio to quickly compare the prices of flights, trains and buses. It sorts everything by cheapest, recommended, shortest, etc. and is totally free!

My Cheapest Ways to Travel Europe Video

One of the most important things to do before travelling internationally is figuring out how you’ll get around. Want a video version of all the info below? Here you go:

1. Taking Buses to Travel Europe Cheaply

If affordability is what you’re after, I highly recommend traveling around Europe by bus.

While it’s not as comfortable, convenient or scenic as train travel, it comes at a fraction of the cost (which means more euros in your pocket for croissant hoarding and wine guzzling).

These days, the main contender in European bus travel is FlixBus .  

For me, Flixbus wins in terms of price, flexibility and convenience. With fares as cheap as 5 euros one way, the price simply can’t be beat.

Plus, you can easily download an app where you can check different bus times/purchase tickets up to the day of.

They even have the most chilled out cancellation policy ever – you can cancel/change your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure for only a euro (note: in the good old days, this was even free!)

That’s why I think Flixbus is the perfect choice for a spontaneous budget traveler.

They even have an awesome pass called Interflix that allows you to book 5 journeys for only 99 euros. That means you can ride from one European hotspot to another for only 20 euros… an absolute steal.

Click here to scope out the best Flixbus deals

NOTE: As with all things in life, you get what you pay for. Flixbus isn’t world-renowned for amazing service or punctuality, but they do get you from Point A to Point B eventually. I’d recommend them if budget is your #1 priority.

Other bus options to check out in Europe:

Eurolines: I’ve only used Eurolines a handful of times because Flixbus is so convenient to book, but they offer a lot of routes around Europe and in my experience, tend to be more punctual than Flixbus.

However, they’re a lot less flexible when it comes to modifications/cancellations, with a zero refund policy within 48 hours of the trip date, and a 25-50% deduction of the total fare if you cancel earlier. In other words, if you want to be flexible, Flixbus is a better choice!

RegioJet, AKA Student Agency Bus:  I took this one from Prague to Budapest 2 years ago and it’s still (to date) the most luxurious bus trip I’ve ever had!

It was super affordable, there were movies available on board and even a “bus attendant” who gave us free hot chocolate and tea. Most of their routes seem to be in/out of the Czech Republic, but they’re an amazing deal if you’re travelling in that area.

Megabus: Megabus used to be my go-to bus company (they’re how I got from Paris to London for two pounds in 2014 – like I said, for less than the price of 6 nuggets!) but their European routes have since been acquired by Flixbus.

That said, they’re still active in the UK, and have some crazy deals if you book early enough (the first to buy tickets on certain routes can score them for only 1 pound)

Another cost-effective option in the UK is  National Express.  I’ve used them many times and they’re always very professional and punctual. The key with them is to book as early as possible to score the best deals!

Local bus lines: While travelling around the Balkans, I relied on a number of local coach companies to get around. If you happen to be travelling around the Balkans, your best bet is to inquiry at the local bus station for tickets – they’re usually very affordable even the day-of.

2. Hopping around Europe Cheaply with budget airlines

One of the most popular (and cheapest) ways to travel Europe is through budget airlines.

Unlike North America, Europe is crawling with budget airlines that can take you from Point A to Point B at ludicrously low costs.

… Sometimes even cheaper than the bus!

With Ryanair for example, I can get from Munich to London for only 10 euros if I book early enough. That’s cheaper than the cost of actually getting to the airport!

How to find them: I always use Skyscanner  to check out the best flight deals. A few big names to look out for include RyanAir , EasyJet, WizzAir , Volotea,  EuroWings, and Vueling.

You can also use Omio (for free!) to search up flights, buses and trains at the same time so you can see which out of all these options is cheapest.

Lastly, you can double check deals from various locations using a VPN like Private Internet Access to see if you can find better deals.

Download my free checklist: I actually wrote an entire post on how to find the cheapest flights TO Europe, and the tips/systems I introduce definitely work for flights within Europe as well. Click here to read it, and click here to download the free checklists I made that will help you find the cheapest flight every time.

One note with budget airlines: you absolutely, 1000% get what you pay for.

This means limited legroom, ‘meh’ service and additional costs for everything (including extra bags, in-flight meals and even printing your ticket at the airport).

But hey, for the price, you really can’t beat it. So long as you familiarize yourself with each airline’s rules and hidden costs, you’ll be fine.

If you want a preview of what the experience is like, click here to read my honest RyanAir review, and click here to read my honest Wizz Air review.

I wouldn’t stress too much about having the most luxurious and wonderful experience though… instead, it’s much easier to accept a mildly uncomfortable 1-3 hours.

After all guys, you are paying 10 euros to fly in a hover-box through the sky. Chill out, and enjoy the (dis)comfort of your legroom-less seat.

Click here to scope out the best flight deals on Skyscanner

3. Cruise around Europe on a budget with BlaBaCar

Those in search of the cheapest way to travel Europe should definitely look into BlaBlaCar.

BlaBlaCar is a carpool service that matches up drivers/passengers who are going to the same places. You’re essentially pitching in for gas/other expenses in exchange for a seat in someone’s car.

I know it sounds slightly sketch, but it operates on a good review system much like Couchsurfing and AirBNB . Many of my friends use it regularly with great results.

HELPFUL HINT: In some areas, Google Maps has even begun syncing up with BlaBlaCar , so when you search up how to get from Point A to Point B, BlaBlaCar rides will show up as an additional option below driving, public transport, etc.

Click here to check out BlaBlaCar

4. Save Money on Your Europe Trip by Hitchhiking

If you’re looking for (truly) the cheapest way to travel Europe, hitchhiking would be it. Is it glamorous? No. But it’s like, 50 shades of free, soooo…

Now here’s the thing: hitchhiking is better suited for some areas than others.

For example, while in the Balkans, I hitchhiked once in Bosnia and the guy turned out to be a lovely lavender farmer who (seemed to) own a monopoly over lavender fields in the area.

He barely spoke English and could only keep pointing at his fields like a boss while hollering “LAVANDA LAVANDA”.

That was a fun experience.

On the other hand, it might not be as easy to do in Western Europe… I’ve never tried it myself in this area, but I do have friends who once hitchhiked from Amsterdam to Munich to visit me for Oktoberfest.

It took 16 hours. SO, know that this is the ultimate cheap way to travel Europe, but it can be very unpredictable, tough and kill a lot of your exploration time.

It’s also true that hitchhiking isn’t for everyone. While it’s not as dangerous or uncommon as many people think, it still carries some risk and disadvantages.

You should probably NOT hitchhike if:

• You are paranoid about safety (and travelling alone)
• You are limited in time
• You have strict plans on where you need to be and when

5. See Europe in Style (and on a budget) with train deals

There are few travel experiences as epic as taking the train across Europe… that said, while train travel is incredible , it can wreak some serious havoc on your budget.

Cheap train travel in Europe can be possible though. Here are some tips!

How to travel Europe by train (on a budget): 

Book as early as you possibly can:

European train tickets are usually sold in batches, with a select number of really cheap (inflexible booking) tickets available first, then moving into higher price ranges as they sell out.

If you know where you’re going and are okay with a lack of flexibility, then buying as early as possible is probably your best bet.

Look into group/regional tickets:  

Many areas in Europe will have special deals for those travelling in groups or in particular areas. In Bavaria for example (where I currently live), there’s a group deal called a Bayern Ticket that gives you unlimited travel for the day for 5 people on the same ticket .

It costs 26 euros for the first person, then 5 additional for each extra person you add on, which is an insanely good deal if you get several people together.

Often, these deals will be cheaper than buying regular tickets, so do some research to see if these specials exist where you’re headed 🙂 For more info, you can click here for my full Bayern ticket guide.

Check if you’re eligible for discounts:

European train companies love rewarding people for being young, so often if you’re under the age of 26, you’re eligible for additional discounts, especially if you’re a student.

In Belgium for example, those 26 and under can buy a GoPass 1, which allows you to travel one-way anywhere in the country for only €6.60.

Get a train pass:

For my fellow North Americans, Eurail offers a lot of different passes for different countries, time periods, etc. These can be much cheaper than buying tickets individually, and they also offer a lot more flexibility.

It’s good value for money, despite not being the cheapest option out there. I would recommend doing a lot of research prior to buying a pass to see how much tickets cost for your intended travel routes because you might be able to plan a cheaper trip if you buy non-flex tickets far in advance.

Click here to browse the best deals on Eurail Passes

6. Travel Europe Cheaply by Renting a Car

Travelling through Europe by car might sound like a wonderful bucket list dream, but it’s a lot more complicated than just getting an old Volkswagen and decking it out in fairy lights.

The issue with renting a car in Europe is that it’s riddled with hidden costs, including extra fees for crossing multiple countries, dropping off at different points, highway vignettes (required for many countries in Central Europe, etc. etc.)

The truth is, it is highly unlikely that renting a car will be the cheapest way to travel Europe for you.

Is it worth it though? Well, the freedom to pull over whenever, go wherever and take off at a moment’s notice  is  pretty sweet.

If you choose to go this route, here are some tips to help you get the best deal on travelling through Europe by car:

Use a comparison website:

A good start is using a comparison website to find the most competitive prices for a car rental.  Expedia is my go-to.

That said, looking at these listed prices is simply not enough. It’s also important to…

Consider the hidden costs:

The prices you see on these comparison sites will most likely not be what you end up paying. There are MANY extras to consider, like insurance, GPS, multiple country fees, one-way drop off fees, tolls, vignettes, etc.

Sadly, the companies are not consistent in what they include in their listed price, so be sure to do your research and read the fine print so you can fully understand which is the best deal.

Click here to read my post full of hidden costs you should be mindful of!

Find coupon codes automatically :

I highly recommend the free Google Chrome extension, Honey , which looks up free coupon codes for you automatically. It takes a click to install and is awesome for saving a little extra on all travel bookings and any other online purchases.

Any more questions about the cheapest ways to travel around Europe?

I hope you enjoyed that guide on the cheapest way to travel Europe and that it gave you some good insight into the different options for cheap transportation in Europe.

If you have any questions though, feel free to ask below!

My Go-To Travel Favourites:

🧳 Eagle Creek: My favourite packing cubes

💳 Wise: For FREE travel friendly credit cards

🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

📷 Sony A7IV: My (amazing) camera

✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

75 thoughts on “The Cheapest Ways to Travel Europe, According to a Cheapo Who Loves Traveling Europe”

BlaBlaCar sounds interesting, I’ll definitely take note of it. Hitchhiking is just for me though. I’m too scared, haha! – Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog https://charmainenyw.com

haha BlaBaCar is almost like a more regulated version of hitchhiking. Definitely a good middle ground or starting point if hitchhiking scares you 😉

Great tips! I took Flixbus and it was perfectly fine and actually on time, which was a pleasant surprise! Also, I think the best website for looking up quite a bit of European train travel is bahn.de. It’s the German train website but it has train times and routes for many more countries. And it’s really easy to use. Always search the number of people you’re looking to book for. Sometimes we forget and just keep the number at 1, but I travel with my husband and we’re always 2 and 2 is always cheaper than 1 + 1! There are great deals in Germany for a group of people traveling together too. Found this on Easy Jet as well – prices are better for 2 people.

Awesome info – thank you! I use bahn.de all the time since I live in Germany but I never realized it had such helpful info for other countries too. And I had no clue that booking for 2 is cheaper. SO good to know – thanks! <3

Great tips! I currently live in Europe and have the flexibility of owning a car, but I might use one of these cheap buses one day. Another thing about those cheap airlines…if you’re flying in Europe the flight time is usually no more than 2 hours, so it’s really not a big deal to not be able to recline your seat for 2 hours. As soon as you’re up, you’re already back down! Worth the cheap price in my opinion. And I think the hitchhiking is totally dependent on where you are. I went to the Isle of Skye in Scotland earlier this year and it’s extremely common for backpackers to hitchhike around the isle to get to the different sites. We gave a ride to some people and didn’t feel unsafe at all. Go with your gut!

Awesome – thanks so much for this thoughtful comment, Kristin! Always good to get some input from others and their experiences <3 Scotland does seem like an amazing place to hitchhike. The people there are so lovely! Thanks for chiming in 🙂

Love your tips, I think I tried most of them. No bad experience so far. 🙂

haha good to hear I’m not steering anybody wrong 😉 thanks for reading!

It is really not easy to keep it cheap in Europe, but you have some great suggestions. In Denmark, they use GoMore, a great carpooling service. I used it a lot because train tickets are ridiculously expensive! Else, the trick is to book in advance, then you can get them almost cheaper than doing the carpooling.

Ooh good to know about GoMore! I love that there’s so many new services popping up these days for budget travellers. Makes lives so much easier!

A very handy piece, if only travel in Canada was that easy…lol…I will be keeping this for future reference as I had never heard of Flix Bus they sound great and if you can get used to flying Ryanair you can get used to anything…

Hope this comes in handy for your future travels, Faith! Flixbus is definitely a great budget option. They’re by no means mega-comfortable and there’s often delays, but it does get you to where you need to go eventually haha. Can’t really argue with prices like theirs!

I love this one! 🙂 I live in Europe so I have used almost all from the list but I really like it how you combined them. P. S. Your pins has amaaazing design, love it so much. <3

aw thank you so much for the kind words!!! <3

I was just in the Balkans and had to hitchhike out of desperation in Albania . Lol. Love that you met a lavender farmer!

haha I hope your experience was as fun as mine! Hitch hiking in the Balkans is a lot easier (I’ve heard) than in other parts of Europe 🙂 definitely a neat way to meet locals!

This is really useful for me! I am currently an exchange student in Italy untile Feb 2018 so I’ve been wanting to go out the country and roam around Europe. I most definitely am shocked with RyanAir prices! Thanks for this post!

What an exciting time for you! I travelled so much during my exchange in Munich and decided to move here 😉 You never know what a crazy impact this experience will have on your life. Hope you have an amazing time in Italy!

Love this post! Good timing too, I was just trying to decide about taking a FlixBus for an upcoming trip. Sounds like it is the way to go!

We are also all about the budget airlines (Volotea is my current fav) but I swear my biggest annoyance isn’t the baggage fees or incessant selling, it is the lack of seat back pockets. Sounds ridiculous but for some reason that annoys me ENDLESSLY. #highmaintenance

omg so true – no seat pockets kills me every time because then I’m left scrambling, with my passport, phone, boarding pass, etc. scattered all across my lap hahah. Flixbus is fine if you don’t mind meh service/delays. They’re definitely super budget friendly!

This post is so timely ! Planning a trip to Europe next summer . Thx for sharing ! Fab as always Christina ! Xo Valerie

Yay! Hope you picked up loads of great tips from this post. Safe travels 🙂

Great post with really good advice. Busses are a great way to go and often overlooked by North Americans. But I find them to be really useful in certain areas. I’m still a fan of trains though!

I think buses are tougher in North America since major cities are so much further apart! In Europe though they are amazing since everything is so close 🙂 I’m a big fan of trains now too. They’re just so comfortable and convenient. Thanks for reading, Lynne!

This is all seriously so helpful! Thank you for taking the time to put it together. I’m definitely saving for my upcoming trip, since I’ll be an extra tight budget!

so so happy you found it helpful!! Safe travels, girl <3

I don’t live in Europe but every time I go to The Netherlands I take adventage of those cheap trips in Europe itswlf. I’ve tried bus travels and by plain. Next I want to try train traveling. All in all Europe living is in a travelers best interest.

Absolutely – living in Europe makes us travellers so spoiled 🙂 I can’t recommend train travel enough. It’s so relaxing and beautiful. Hope you get to see for yourself sometime soon!

Cheap travel is one of the things I love most about living in Europe! If I ever stopped travelling around Europe, Ryanair might go bust ;-). This was a great and really informative post!

hahaha yes – I feel so spoiled living here. Thanks for reading, and keep travelling please because I rely on RyanAir way too much for them to go bust 😉 lol

Another cheap way to travel Europe to grab one of the multi festival/trip passes that Stoke Travel have. I picked up one of their Passports and it got me a free festival, and I got to visit Oktoberfest, surf in Spain, La tomatina and Ibiza with all my accommodation, meals and ridiculous parties sorted. They even have unlimited beer and sangria haha.

Hey Christiana, Awesome post loved it. Never know it was possible to travel Europe so cheaply. I will definitely make a point following these tips while a trip to europe this summer.

Awesome! I hope you have an amazing (budget-friendly) trip!

Transportation is one of the things that contribute to a major portion of your entire travel budget. That’s why people search for some cheapest travel option around Europe and your blog presents a very good information about that. It was certainly a good read. Thanks for posting.

Loved your tips. Its great to find such informative article. Will try some of your tips on my next visit for sure.

The tutorial is very detailed, thank you for sharing, wish you always good health to go more places. I’m planning to go to Europe and it’s great to read your post

Hi Chris! Thanks for sharing your experience with us!!

Budget airlines were my best friend when I lived in London! It felt like such an accomplishment to grab an awesome deal and be able to go away for the weekend wherever I wanted in Europe!

Absolutely love this, I have lived in Europe most my life but even I learned something from these amazing tips. Will definitely pin this for later. Thanks for sharing!

I think there’s a lot to be said for different transport being good for different places! There are so many European trips I want to do and all in different ways (road trip through northern Italy? Train through Switzerland?) – there’s so much to consider! This post is really helpful in laying it all out though. 🙂

What a great and helpful post! I’m going to be traveling around Europe for a few months later this year so I’m saving it for later. I’ve heard of a few of these companies, but since I haven’t used them before, I tend to forget about them. So thanks for jogging the memory, too.

Great tips, shame Europes not on the cards for me in the near future. Love the lavanda story!

Great post! I for one wouldn’t really like to spend most of my budget just to get to the place I really want to go to. Sometimes the cheapest mode of travel makes you experience the best story to tell if time isn’t much of a factor 🙂

Oh I love Megabus. I use it all the time to travel from Toronto to Montreal. I didn’t know it exists in Europe too. These are some great info Christina! One day, when I’m less of a chicken, I would like to try hitchhiking in Europe 😛

Thanks for the tips, Christina! I love FlixBus and hitchhiking hehehe. When my mom backpacked Europe in the ’80s she just got a train pass but that seemed so spendy the last time I was there, and ended up going with FlixBus practically everywhere. I do love trains, though.

FlixBus and trains were my favorite ways to get around Europe. I wanted to try BlaBla car, but the timing didn’t work out.

Thanks for the tips.

Personally, I always prefer to use cheap airlines in Europe over buses or trains. They cost almost identical, but you get to your destination much faster and without back pain.

If you book two or three months in advance, you can usually fly between most European Capitals for 30-60 USD. Some good choices are Rynair, Wizz Air, and Norwegian airlines.

hahaha yes – I feel so spoiled living here. Thanks for reading, and keep travelling please because I rely on RyanAir way too much for them to go bust lol

While travelling around the Balkans, I relied on a number of local coach companies to get around. If you happen to be travelling around the Balkans, your best bet is to inquiry at the local bus station for tickets – they’re usually very affordable even the day-of

I don’t live in Europe but every time I go to The Netherlands I take adventage of those cheap trips in Europe itswlf. I’ve tried bus travels and by plain. Next I want to try train traveling. All in all Europe living is in a travelers best interest.

Transportation is one of the things that contribute to a major portion of your entire travel budget. That’s why people search for some cheapest travel option around Europe and your blog presents a very good information about that. It was certainly a good read. Thanks for posting.

Amazing post, so detailed! Very useful as a quick go-to guide, definitely fueled our wanderlust!

Thanks for all the info! I live in Europe, but I want to do more spontaneous weekend trips for cheap more often (I’m writing that as if I’ve ever done it before…) Grew up with travelling through Europe by car, and I dream of doing it again. To visit smaller villages overlooked by tourists, either by free will or because the car breaks down, makes great memories (it is handy being a member of one of these road help companies, especially when travelling with a 15-20 year old car). Oops, mind flew off there… but yeah, recommend people to go by car if they can afford it and don’t want to stay at the big cities most of the time

Awesome post! Thanks for sharing the knowledge and keep up the good work.

thanks for reading!

This is very really unique helpful information. keep it up. Thank you so much!

When you visit to another country, one of the important things that you must concern is budget. You need to prepare carefully everything for your trip. Especially, you should find out the cheapest way, it will help you save money better.

Do you love traveling? Do you want to discover Europe? It’s a wonderful place for people, you can visit many beautiful countries and enjoy some delicious food.

Interesting writing! Europe is very beautiful, I think that most people will choose this place to relax and enjoy.

Useful article for visitors! If you have a decision to travel to Europe, let’s read this writing and discover it.

Very good info. I needed this, Thank you very much for your advice

Exciting article!

Europe is very famous for its architecture and beverage. Let’s discover this country when you have a chance!

Hello Christina!! Wow it is an interesting and amazing article and it is very beneficial for all readers especially for all those who travel through it first time. I really like this article and I hope all the readers will be very thankful for it. It is very beneficial for me as I am going through my first flight and this flight will be very useful for me. Thanks for sharing this article with all of us

Thank you for providing such a useful and attractive blog, with very useful details and stuff I never expected, and I would suggest that you write more blogs and blog posts like that for us. Once again, thank you.

Europe is very famous for its architecture and beverage. Let’s discover this country when you have a chance!

Thank you for sharing this truly awesome intel! I’ve already bookmarked this page for my upcoming European travels, and that pretzel looks too good to be true 🙂

Wonderful post about travel to Europe! Keep up the wonderful work and thanks for providing the information.

Fantastic post! Please keep up the fantastic work and thanks for sharing your information.

This blog gives tips and application references that could be useful to save money while traveling in Europe on a tight budget.

i like your videos a lot 🙂 thanks for all the infos, i am also on low budget and need every tip on saving money haha. i start using this app called ” ATM Fee saver” it shows me atm around me with the lowest fees for withdrawing money. its super useful i can recommend to you using it 🙂

great Post.. really helpful

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The 20 best places to visit in Europe on a budget

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

• roughguides.com
• best-places-to-visit-in-europe-on-a-budget

written by Lottie Gross

updated 11.07.2023

Europe presents an irresistible challenge to the budget traveller. A potent mix of culture, landscape and history on the one hand and a cash-gobbling monster on the other, sticking to your daily allowance can prove tricky.

1. The Albanian coast

2. sarajevo, bosnia-herzegovina, 3. bansko, bulgaria, 4. czechia (czech republic), 5. estonia’s baltic coast, 6. leipzig, germany, 7. london, england, 8. the peloponnese, greece, 9. budapest, hungary, 10. palermo, sicily, italy, 11. lake ohrid, macedonia, 12. kotor, montenegro, 13. gdánsk, poland, 14. porto, portugal, 15. transylvania, romania, 16. novi sad, serbia, 17. the high tatras, slovakia, 18. northwest slovenia, 19. andalucía, spain, 20. lviv, ukraine.

But learn to zone out the “Spend! Spend! Spend!” siren song of its myriad restaurants, bars and shops and you’ll find that this compact little continent is simply the world’s greatest labyrinth.

There's an abundance of beautiful places in Europe which don't require much of a budget to see; and some experiences, like the infamous Budapest nightlife, combines both entertainment with local booze.

When exactly is the best time to visit Europe? Well, it depends on what you're after. Thankfully there's a year-round roster of things to do and see. We've picked out the cheapest places to travel on the continent this year (note that the "Rough Costs" below reflect per person or per night). From low budget tourist places in the world to the cheapest country to travel to, where do you think will make the list?

Want to find out more about budget travel in Europe? Check out our Rough Guide to Europe on a Budget .

Looking for Mediterranean sun and sand, but your budget doesn’t quite stretch to Capri or the Côte d’Azur? Simply head further east and you’ll find sun-drenched beaches untouched by modern development. Albania is one of the cheapest countries in Europe, and as yet under-explored by the tourist hordes. On its southern Ionian coast, steep grey mountains frame azure seas and golden sands.

Also take note - the Albanian capital Tirana will certainly surprise you with the number of interesting things you can do there .

Sarande is almost in touching distance of Corfu and is a handy entry point from Greece. From here you can aim for the beaches of Ksamil and nearby islands. Cheap seafood, warm seas and a smattering of isolated Greek ruins and Ottoman towns: the perfect recipe for a classic European sojourn.

Where to stay

Best for being on the beach: Vila E Bardhe

Best for great views of the harbour: Hotel Real

From Saranda: Visit the archaeological park of Butrint on a private tour

From Durrës: Wine tasting and history tour in Berat

Find more ideas for visiting Albania with our guide to the best things to do in Albania .

Rough costs:

Daily budget: Basic €30, occasional treat €45

Drink: Bottle of red wine €6

Food: Qoftë (minced meat rissoles) €2, seafood €6

Hostel/budget hotel: €15/€35

Travel: Bus: Tirana–Saranda €10.50; train: Tirana–Shkodra €3.30

Buy the guide >

Though the scars of Sarajevo ’s past as a city under siege are still evident. There are remnants of mortar shell explosions, filled with red resin to form “Sarajevo Roses”, and the museums document the horrors of Sniper Alley. Today, the city buzzes with life and is one of the cheapest countries in Europe. If you don't want to miss any of the key historic sites, book ahead and join a guided tour.

One of the most welcoming capitals in Europe, its central district of Baščaršija is a delight to wander through. Browse in the Ottoman-era bazaar or linger over a Bosnian coffee. The after-hours scene is quirky and cool, with tucked-away drinking holes and an ever-evolving club scene.

Best hostel for city location: Hostel Franz Ferdinand

Best for location to tourist attractions: Hotel Europe

Best for first time visitors: A guided walking tour in Sarajevo

Best for getting out of the city: A day tour to Jajce and Travnik

Rough costs

Daily budget: Basic €28, occasional treat €45

Drink: Bosnian coffee €0.70–1

Food: Cevapcici (meat rissoles) €3–4

Hostel/budget: €10/€28

Travel: Bus: Sarajevo–Bihać €17–25; train: Sarajevo–Mostar €5–7

Read our destination guide to Bosnia-Herzegovina >

Hitting the slopes without breaking the bank can be a challenge. Especially when the main Alpine resorts are located in some of the most expensive countries in Europe! However, eastern Europe has a few intriguing ski destinations, including Bulgaria ’s Bansko on the Pirin mountain range.

The country’s main ski resort has good beginner and intermediate runs. There's a decent range of shared or private accommodation to choose from, easily making Bansko one of the best places to visit in Europe with friends. The town itself has considerable charm, with numerous traditional old pubs hidden down its cobbled alleyways.

Best for guest house experience: Zigen House

Best for great location: Kap House Hotel

Best for the adventurers: River rafting on the Kresna Gorge

Best to get to know the culture: Experience local traditions, dishes, crafts and stories

Also while planning your visit, read our guide to the best things to do in Bulgaria .

Drink: Beer (0.5l) €1.25

Food: Shopska salad €4

Hostel/budget hotel: €12/€60

Travel: Train: Sofia–Plovdiv €4–6; bus: €5

Find out more about Bansko >

Though ever-popular Prague is not quite the dirt-cheap city break destination it once was, you’ll still find Czechia (Czech Republic ) to be a good-value country for independent travel. The country that invented Pilsner is justifiably famous for producing some of the best beers – at pretty good prices.

But there's plenty of other reasons as to why it's one of the best places to visit in Europe. In Prague , the choice of watering holes ranges from traditional beer halls and monastery taverns to a new generation of microbreweries. Continue the Czech beer trail with a visit to the Pilsner Urquell brewery in Plzeň, before striking out to the country’s lesser-known spots, such as charming Olomouc , a pint-sized Prague without the tourists.

If you're heading to Prague, where you're based can make all the difference to your experience, so make the right start with our guide to the best places to stay in the city.

Best location for hostel: Safestay Prague

Best for shopping and city centre: K+K Hotel Central

Best for history buffs: Small group tour to the Prague Castle

Best for a magical evening: Dinner cruise on an Open-Top Glass Boat

Daily budget: Basic €45, occasional treat €55

Drink: Pilsner Urquell (0.5l) €1.60

Food: Pork and dumplings €8

Hostel/budget hotel: €20/€45

Travel: Train: Prague–Karlovy Vary €12; bus: €14

Explore the best of Czech Republic >

Related articles from the blog

Known for the popular city break destination of Tallinn , small and beautiful Estonia also provides swathes of wilderness, with beautiful stretches of coastline, a scattering of islands and forested national parks along its long Baltic coastline. With so much centered on the outdoors, it's arguably the cheapest country in Europe.

An hour from Tallinn, 725-square-kilometre Lahemaa National Park is best explored by bike. You can cycle its coastal paths, discover rugged coves, windswept beaches and fishing villages and even sleep on hay bales at a farm. Venture further west, and the summertime resort of Pärnu has fantastic beaches, The island of Saaremaa offers soft-carpeted pine forest countryside and very affordable spas.

Best for boutique hotel in Tallinn: Hotel Meltzer Apartments

Best for boutique spa in Saaremaa: Grand Rose SPA Hotel

Best for historical, Soviet heritage: Day tour from Tallinn to Naissaar, also known as Women's Island

Best for urban exploration: The Industrial Stalker Bike Tour in Kalamaja District

Daily budget: Basic €40, occasional treat €60

Drink: Le Coq beer €2.60

Food: Blood sausage and sauerkraut €7

Travel: Bus: Tallinn–Saaremaa €9; Tartu–Tallinn €13

As far as Europe travel goes, Berlin is an anomaly. It’s one of the few capitals where the cost of living is lower than the national average. It's a legacy of the country’s former divide, which still means former East Germany is notably cheaper than western centres like Frankfurt and Munich . But as prices gradually rise in gentrifying Berlin, there are other eastern cities to venture to, including buzzing Leipzig .

The city that kick-started the 1989 protests that led to the country’s reunification has long had a fierce, independent spirit. Over the past few years, it’s also developed quite a reputation for its thriving artist enclaves and offbeat nightlife. Its culture scene is in constant flux, with old industrial buildings, such as former cotton mill the Spinnerei, converted into cutting-edge spaces.

Best for city location: IntercityHotel Leipzig

Best for little luxury: Pentahotel Leipzig

Best for family exploration: 3hr canoe tour through the city

Best for first-time visitors: Hop-on Hop-off bus tour including walking tour

• Daily: Budget Basic €57, occasional treat €73
• Drink: Beer (0.5ml) €3.35
• Food: Schnitzel €8
• Hostel/budget hotel: €20/€35
• Travel: Munich–Berlin: train €55–142; bus €22

Fall in love with the rest of Germany >

London and budget aren’t words that usually go together. However, London has more free world-class attractions than any other European city. There's the British Museum , home to enough treasures to satisfy the most curious of history hunters; the vast Tate Modern , with stupendous views from its terrace and ever-changing art collections; the Natural History Museum with its magnificent dinosaurs; and beautiful Victoria & Albert Museum – all free, all of the time.

And don’t forget the open spaces: spend a day tramping across Hampstead Heath, another meandering along the South Bank or perusing East End markets and you’ll get more of a sense of city life than if you’re stuck in a queue at an overpriced attraction. For food, opt for the popular street-food markets and your budget will stretch further – you might even have enough left for an overpriced pint.

Best for being in the centre of London: The Z Hotel Piccadilly

Best for location to Southbank: Park Plaza London Waterloo

Best for stunning views: The London Eye (make sure to book your ticket ahead of time to skip the lines)

Best for the adventurers: Climb the O2 Arena

• Daily budget: Basic €70, occasional treat €90
• Drink: Lager €6
• Food: Fish and chips €10
• Hostel/budget hotel: €13/20 (dorm/private)/€70
• Travel: Train: London–Brighton €20; bus: London–Manchester €40

Get the London low-down >

Think of budget travel in Greece , and the image is still one of island-hopping, sleeping on the deck of a ferry or camping on the beach. However, the slow pace of island travel and the popularity of the main resorts all adds to the cost.

Instead, consider the many-fingered peninsula of Greece . It has some fine beaches – less developed than those on the main islands – and it is home to the ancient sights of Epidaurus and Olympia . Medieval villages, spectacular rack-railway journeys and appealing Byzantine towns all await those who explore beyond the package holiday destinations.

Best for beaches in Finikounta: Hotel Golden Sun

Best for location in Nafplion: Pension Eleni

Best for day tours from Athens: Nafplio and Ancient Epidaurus

Best for explorers: Self-guided virtual reality tour of Olympia

• Daily budget: Basic €31, occasional treat €42
• Drink: Ouzo €3
• Food: Souvláki (shish kebab) €3
• Hostel/budget hotel: €21/€31
• Travel: Bus: Athens–Delphi €19; ferry: Athens–Crete €38

Straddling the Danube, the twin enclaves of Buda and Pest together make one of the most beguiling capitals in Europe . Their main pleasures won’t break the bank, making it one of the top cheap places to travel to.

Spend the day lounging by the pools in the spa, taking the occasional dip, cooling off under the fountains, and watching the old men play chess at the waterside tables. Come evening, the “r uin-bars” of District VII beckon – idiosyncratic bars tucked away in the neighbourhood’s courtyards. The tipple of choice is the cheap local white or rosé drunk long as a spritzer, perfect in the baking heat of summer.

Budapest is one of the best places to visit in Europe in the Spring (March to May) or Autumn (Sept to Nov) as the climate is at its most pleasant – ideal for those outdoor spa days and pounding the pavements.

Best for location to city centre: Arcadia Hotel Budapest

Best for a little luxury: Hotel Palazzo Zichy Budapest

Best to relax: Soak up the atmosphere at the Thermal Margaret Island Spa

Best for wine connoisseurs: Taste 7 Hungarian wines from boutique wineries

• Daily budget: Basic €42, occasional treat €62
• Drink: Beer (large) €2–2.60
• Food: Goulash €3–4
• Hostel/pension: €16–31
• Travel: Train: Budapest–Eger €8.30

Find out more about Budapest >

Any grand tour of Europe includes a string of beautiful Italian cities: refined Florence , alluring Rome and glamorous Venice . While there’s no doubting their charms, they are well and truly on the tourist trail, which pushes up prices, particularly in high season.

Escape from the mainland to Sicily and you’ll find in its capital Palermo a city both redolent of the Italy of yesteryear and – if you ask a Sicilian – a country apart. Undoubtedly run down in places, the city unfolds many surprises . There are churches covered in exquisite mosaics and cluttered neighbourhood markets, where you can snack on local street foods, like arancini (rice balls) and panelle (chick pea fritters), as you wander.

Best for popular attractions: Hotel Palazzo Brunaccini

Best hostel for location to the city: Balarm Hostel

Best for foodies: 3hr street food and history walking tour

Best for day trips: Explore Western Sicily with Segesta, Erice and Salt Pans

• Daily budget: Basic €36, occasional treat €52
• Drink: Wine €2.60/glass
• Food: Local pasta dish €5–8; pizza slice €2
• Hostel/budget hotel: €16–31/€47–62
• Travel: Train: Rome–Naples €21; bus: €12

Get inspired for Sicily >

Vast, deep, Lake Ohrid is the jewel of North Macedonia . The quiet streets of its namesake town reveal frescoed medieval churches, a Roman amphitheatre and a fortress worth climbing for the views. But as you explore the old town, the clear lake waters draw you back time and time again, inviting you to swim, dive or take to the waters by boat.

If you are tempted landwards it might be to hike in the nearby Galičica National Park. With cheap private rooms to rent and several waterside camping spots, the area is perfect for travellers on a budget to kick back and relax.

Best for a cosy guest house: Villa & Winery Mal Sveti Kliment

Best for views of Lake Ohrid: Villa Kale

Best for those with limited time: Day tour from Skopje to Ohrid

Best for history buffs: Private half-day city tour

• Daily budget: Basic €26, occasional treat €36
• Drink: Wine from €2.60 per bottle
• Food: Tavče gravče (bean casserole) €1.50
• Hostel/budget hotel: €10/€26
• Travel: Bus: Skopje–Ohrid €7; train: Skopje–Bitola €4

Travelling cheap? Montenegro won't disappoint. The beautiful walled town of Kotor sits at the end of a fjord-like bay, ringed by dramatic peaks. Just follow your nose in the Old Town. Getting lost in the labyrinth of streets is half the fun, discovering summertime cafés that spill out on the squares before clambering along the old fortress walls.

For a view over the whole gorgeous scene, hike up to St Ivan’s castle, overlooking the town. Kotor’s annual highlight is August’s exuberant Boka Nights festival , when the whole town celebrates as a lavish display of decorated boats parade in the bay and fireworks fill the sky.

Where to stay:

Best for boutique hotel: Boutique Hotel Astoria

Best for location to the city centre and the beach: Muo Apartments

Best to get away from the crowds: 2.5h Kayak Tour in the Bay of Kotor

Best for a day trip: Boat Tour to the Blue Cave & Our Lady of the Rocks

• Daily budget: Basic €31, occasional treat €52
• Drink: Nikšičko Tamno beer €1 (bottle from shop)
• Food: Sarma €2.60–4
• Hostel/budget hotel: €21/€52
• Travel: Bus: Budva–Kotor €3; train: Podgorica–Virpazar €1

For more ideas for visiting Montenegro read our guide to the best things to do in Montenegro .

Part beautiful Hanseatic city, part gritty port town and part Baltic riviera, the northern Polish city of Gdánsk offers a winning combination of coastal appeal. Though the core of this picturesque, colourful city, with its narrow merchant houses, looks ancient, it’s actually a postwar reconstruction – but the history is genuine. It's one of many cheap travel destinations to visit in Poland!

The shipyard crane dates back to the 15th century, and the city was the birthplace of the Solidarity anti-communist movement. Come summer, the action moves to the hip, coastal resort of Sopot , with its golden sand beach, lively party scene and attractive pier (the longest in Europe).

Best for location to the city centre: PURO Gdansk Stare Miasto

Best for great views and location to the city: Mercure Gdansk Stare Miasto

Best for nightlife: Pub Crawl with free drinks

Best for first-time visitors: Electric Scooter guided tour of the Old Town

• Daily budget: Basic €52, occasional treat €73
• Drink: Vodka (50ml shot) €1
• Food: Żurek soup €2–3
• Hostel/budget hotel: €12/€36
• Travel: Train: Warsaw–Kraków €34; bus: €16

Explore the WW2 Liberation Route with the help of a local expert >

Portugal travel doesn't get more exciting than in Porto. Portugal’s second city is appealingly set on the banks of the river Duoro. The riverside district of Portugal is crammed with no-frills good, local restaurants – pick somewhere a street or so back from the waterfront and you’ll be spoilt with local dishes and wines at excellent prices. With the city set on either side of the river, check our guide to the best places to stay in Porto to find accommodation that suits you best.

Other highlights include the vast Portugal park, with a superb art museum set within. However, it is port that the city is famous for. Vinologia is a great bar for an introduction to the varieties of fortified wine, and you can visit the port lodges across the river in Vila Nova de Gaia, where for a few euros you can sample their wares.

Make the most of your time in Porto and book ahead to explore some of the unknown wine cellars in the city .

Best for walks along the waterfront: 1872 River House

Best for value with style: MyStay Porto Batalha

Best for day tours: Small group tour to the Douro Valley, Wine Tasting and a River Cruise

Best for iconic views: Torre dos Clérigos (skip-the-line tickets)

• Daily budget: Basic €47, occasional treat €68
• Drink: Bottle of vinho verde in shop €3.60
• Food: Grilled sardines €8
• Hostel/budget hotel: €21/€47
• Travel: Train: Lisbon–Faro €23; bus: Porto–Lisbon €21

Delve into Porto >

Think Transylvania , and you’ll probably imagine Dracula and his castle – and you can certainly go in search of Dracula (aka Vlad the Impaler) connections here. If you're interested in finding Dracula, book your tour here . As Vlad’s birthplace, the attractive town of Sighisoara has the best claim to fame, and it also has a suitably imposing citadel.

But the region is not all fortifications and fangs – make time to venture out into the wilds of the Carpathian mountains , where you can track the Transylvanian wolf, along with bears, red deer and lynx in the Piatra Craiului National Park.

Best for visiting Vlad the Impaler: Casa Richter

Best for visiting Piatra Craiului National Park: Vila Hora cu Brazi

Best for explorers: Medieval City Exploration Game and Tour in Sighisoara

Best for those travelling in high season: Fast track tickets to Bran Castle (Dracula's castle - Romania's number one attraction)

• Daily budget: Basic €26, occasional treat €42
• Drink: Beer €1.90; bottle of Romanian wine €5
• Food: Tochitura moldoveneasca (Moldavian stew) €2.10
• Hostel/budget hotel: €10/€31
• Travel: Bus/train: Bucharest–Braşov €10

Discover more affordable places in Romania >

Also check our best things to do in Romania to make your trip here even more exciting.

Serbia abounds with sights to suit all tastes. Fancy a low-cost summer music festival? Serbia ’s famous EXIT Festival held in July might be just the ticket, and it’s less than half the price of Glastonbury. The line-up is always eclectic, with past acts including David Guetta and Ziggy Marley.

A trip here is about more than the music, however, with a setting that leaves other festivals in the shade. The Petrovaradin fortress stands majestically above the lively city of Novi Sad , a couple of hours from Belgrade. Stages and festival spaces fill every corner of the fortress, and you can spend your days lounging on the river beaches on the banks of the Danube.

If you don't have the time to stay longer, consider taking a day tour from Belgrade to explore Novi Sad and taste the local wines in Sremski Karlovci.

Best for rooftop views of the city: Hotel Leopold I Novi Sad

Best hostel for city location: Hostel Sova

• Drink: Beer (0.5l) €1
• Food: Pljeskavica (hamburger) €1–2
• Hostel/budget hotel: €13/€37
• Travel: Bus: Belgrade–Novi Sad €6; train: Belgrade–Niš €7

Get the low-down on Serbia >

Slovakia's pride and joy , the Tatras mountain range is a magnificent series of peaks – culminating in the pyramid-shaped Gerlach at 2,655m. Start at one of the village resorts like Nový Smokovec or Ždiar, then make for the mountains, where you can rest your weary heads at cheap hikers’ chalets.

This is serious mountain terrain, so be prepared and heed local advice. The mountains are also an inviting playground for climbers and cavers, and you’ll find mountain bike paths, tubing and rafting, plus a full winter season of skiing and snowboarding.

Best for the location to popular attractions: Penzion Reitmayer

Best for families: Apartmanovy Dom TatraTravel Smokovec

• Daily budget: Basic €37, occasional treat €47
• Drink: Beer €1.80
• Food: Gnocchi with bacon €4
• Hostel/budget hotel: €16/€31
• Travel: Bratislava–Košice (train) €20

Sandwiched between Italy, Austria and Croatia, compact Slovenia is an appealing destination on any journey through Europe. There's its charming capital, Ljubljana , as well as easy travel, a burgeoning wine industry and tempting pocket of coastline. For the adventure-minded, or for those who just want to camp in a beautiful lakeside setting, the northwest region is perfect.

Nestled below the stunning Julian Alps are the very different twin lakes of Bled and Bohinj . From here you can carry on to the Soča Valley, right by the Italian border, for hiking, kayaking and rafting adventures.

Best guest house for views of Lake Bled: Penzion Vila Prešeren

Best for lake views: Grand Hotel Toplice

Best for adventurers: 3hr Rafting Experience

Best for wine experiences: Taste 7 top Slovenian wines in a 100-year old wine cellar in Bled

• Drink: Pivo (beer' 0.5ml) €2.60
• Food: Pizza €5–7
• Hostel/budget hotel: €19/€62
• Travel: Train: Ljubljana–Maribor €9; bus: Ljubljana–Bled €7

Find out more about Slovenia >

The southernmost province of Spain, Andalucía travel is a tempting budget destination. This perennially popular region boasts showpiece cities such as Seville , Granada and Córdoba , with their exquisite monuments highlighting the area's Moorish past. Even here prices are competitive compared with Madrid and Barcelona.

You only need to head a little further afield, to the underrated city of Málaga with its Picasso connection and authentic tapas scene, or the atmospheric ancient port city of Cádiz, and you’ll enjoy that alluring southern Spanish vibe for budget-friendly prices. Cheap tapas (the tradition of free tapas originates in Granada) means you can sample Iberian flavours for a couple of euros a plate, and to continue your budget adventure, simply hop on the ferry to Morocco, tantalisingly close by.

Best guest house location to city centre: El Riad Andaluz

Best for style on a budget: Hotel Boutique Villa Lorena Malaga

Best for exploring arts: Guided tour through the Picasso Museum

Best for short hikes: Caminito del Rey - 3hr guided hike

• Daily budget: Basic €68; occasional treat €88
• Drink: €1.80–2.60 per caña (small beer)
• Food: Menú del día €10–12
• Hostel/budget hotel: €17/€36–83
• Travel: Madrid–Barcelona: bus €33–45; train €62–130

Book onto the best things to do in Andalucía

Situated in the west of this vast country, within easy travelling distance of Central European cities such as Kraków and Budapest, Lviv is the city to head for if you want a taste of Ukraine.

It revels in a mixture of Central European influences: Habsburg and Polish, Catholic, Orthodox and Armenian, with its architecture and magnificent churches reflecting this eclecticism. Ukraine regularly features on the list of cheapest destinations in Europe, and with a growing supply of backpacker hostels, appealing coffee houses and quirky bars, this is an extremely budget-friendly city with a refined edge.

Best for location to the city centre: Lviv Central Jam Hotel

Best for style on a budget: Taurus Hotel

Best for first time visitors: Lviv Old Town Walking Tour

Best for foodies with an interest in history: Communist-style Food and Bar Tour

• Drink: Horilka (vodka; 50ml shot) €1
• Food: Ukrainian borshch €0.80
• Hostel/budget hotel: €8/€31
• Travel: Train: Kyiv–Odesa €10; bus: €19

Top image © Patteran/Shutterstock

This feature contains affiliate links; all recommendations are editorially independent.

Top image: Malaga, Spain, Old Town Skyline © S Pavone / Shutterstock

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14 Top Cheapest European Countries to Visit

Written by Meagan Drillinger and Diana Bocco Updated Aug 30, 2023

Europe offers plenty of destinations for all tastes and interests but countries such as France, Germany, and the Netherlands can also stretch your budget to the max. If you're looking for the cheapest European countries to visit, you'll have to think outside the box and head to lesser-known (but equally magical) destinations.

Destinations in Eastern Europe offer some of the best value for travelers heading to Europe. If you want to visit some of the popular Western European countries, timing your trip to avoid the high season is another good way to cut costs.

Choose the best places to visit from our list of the most affordable European countries.

1. Bulgaria

3. montenegro, 4. portugal, 5. slovenia, 7. slovakia, 9. czech republic, 10. albania, 11. bosnia and herzegovina, 12. croatia, 13. estonia, map of cheapest european countries to visit.

Bulgaria often tops the list of inexpensive countries to visit in Europe – and with good reason. For starters, Bulgaria remains largely undiscovered by tourists except for the visitors that come over in summer for a cheap vacation alongside the Black Sea . Even then, accommodations, flights, and entertainment will still cost you a fraction of what you would pay in Western Europe. In the off-season, prices drop considerably, and you can ski, eat, and travel around the country for a tenth of what it costs in the West.

One of the best parts of visiting Bulgaria is the countryside, where castles, villages, and hiking trails – the Central Balkan National Park tops the list for great hikes and breathtaking views – are either free or very cheap to visit. While Sofia is the first stop for many visitors, smaller cities such as Plovdiv – home to over 200 archaeological sites – are even cheaper to explore.

Hotels in Bulgaria are particularly cheap outside of the summer months, and many include not only free breakfast but also free shuttles.

Romania is one of the cheapest destinations in Europe , especially if you're heading to the Carpathian mountains for some hiking or mainly focused on exploring the countryside. Even a visit to Brasov – home to Dracula's 14th-century Bran Castle – can be very affordable if you book a sightseeing day tour or don't mind slow train connections out of Bucharest. Trains aren't always in the best condition in Romania, but they are safe and very cheap.

Some of the most beautiful structures in Bucharest – including the 15th-century Old Town, Revolution Square, and Romania's own Arch of Triumph – are either free or very cheap to visit. In warmer weather, renting a bike can be a great way to explore smaller cities, or you can join one of the many free walking tours that depart from the center of town.

In most cases, it doesn't pay to shop at supermarkets here, as eating out is cheap in Romania , and the meals are hearty and filling. Local specialties such as sarmale (cabbage rolls), cozonac (sweet bread), or mamaliga (polenta, usually served with sour cream and strong cheese) are cheap, often sold at street food stalls, and a great way to get a quick intro to Romanian food.

Montenegro is one of Europe's newest countries. It regained independence in 2006 and while it's rising in popularity as a tourist destination, today many North Americans still have a tough time finding it on a map.

Its "rising tourist destination" status means many things for travelers — fewer crowds and, of course, lower prices. The country has a little bit of everything to offer travelers: beautiful beaches , UNESCO medieval towns, national parks, lakes, mountains, and more — all for a fraction of the price of other more well-traveled European destinations.

Visitors to Montenegro can expect cheap food, particularly if you stick to the local fare, like meat-stuffed burek, homemade cheese and cured meats, and seafood. Of course, you can find a lot of Italian cuisine in Montenegro, too, like pizza, pasta, and salads, which are also very inexpensive. Grocery stores are cheap, as well, so if you book a place with a kitchen, you can stock up and cook your own meals.

One thing to note is that July and August are the busiest months in Montenegro. You'll find a high volume of tourists, particularly along the coastal areas here, like the hip beach city Budva or Herceg Novi on the Bay of Kotor.

But fear not — if you're visiting in the summer months you can always head inland to explore the rugged mountains, glacial lakes, and UNESCO medieval towns. For example, Crno Jezero, a mountain lake surrounded by deep green-bluish forest, is a stunning destination for hiking and swimming and is completely free to enjoy.

Ada Bojana, a small island away from the pricey shoreline towns, is a prime destination for kitesurfing and a lovely summer destination with very affordable prices.

Accommodation: Top-Rated Beach Resorts in Montenegro

• Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Montenegro

Portugal's most attractive destinations are all about nature, sun, and the outdoors – meaning they're mostly free. The Faro District in the south of the country is a popular destination for its soft golden sands, cliffs, and lighthouses, while visitors to Madeira head there for the rugged volcanic hiking trails , the beautiful harbor, and the great scuba diving.

The biggest expenses on a trip to Portugal will be food and accommodations, though visiting outside peak season (June to August) will reduce costs considerably . From November to February, prices drop even more, but the temperatures remain around 17 to 18 degrees Celsius, so it's the perfect time to visit to score great bargains.

Some of Portugal's most interesting destinations are free to explore – aside from the cost of the transportation to get you there. These include the ancient town of Evora , a World Heritage site, and the 12th-century Templar Castle and Convent of Christ in the town of Tomar .

A tiny country surrounded by giants – Italy, Austria, and Hungary are against its borders – Slovenia is a mountainous country covered in forest. Still, most visitors arrive here for the shoreline – sitting against the Adriatic Sea, Slovenia offers plenty of affordable sandy beaches and lots of sun.

While the summer season means more expensive accommodations along the coast, the beaches are all public and free, so it's possible to keep the costs to a minimum even during the high season. Koper Beach and nearby Mestna Beach, Moon Bay, and the famous seaside resort of Portoroz are all very affordable in late spring when temperatures are already summery , but the tourists haven't arrived yet.

Away from the coast, Lake Bled is perhaps the best-known destination. Located just 35 kilometers from the capital city, Ljubljana, the lake is an affordable destination and one of the most stunning sights in the country. Other budget destinations include the medieval town Piran; the fortified village of Štanjel; and Triglav National Park, where you can hike to the top of Mount Triglav in two days with an overnight at a mountain hut.

Hungary is one of the most expensive countries in Eastern Europe – but still a fraction of the cost of traveling to major destinations in the Western half of the continent.

Hungary's capital, Budapest, is home to a long list of free attractions , including walking on the Chain Bridge across the Danube and exploring the Castle Hill area. Although some of the attractions in the Castle area – which includes the Buda Castle and the underground Castle Labyrinth – aren't free to visit, they're still very affordable. In the month of June, the city sponsors a "Night of the Museums," where you can visit many landmarks around Budapest for free.

The neo-Gothic Great Market Hall, Budapest's oldest indoor market, is a great place to search for budget souvenirs and cheap snacks , including many traditional Hungarian foods. Street food is another great way to save money when visiting – the country's favorite fast food is lángos , a sort of deep-fried pizza topped with cheese, tomato sauce, or sour cream.

Outside the capital, things get considerably cheaper . Visitors to the lake resort town of Tihany and those heading to Bükk Mountains for outdoor adventure will find that prices are even lower there all year long.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Hungary

As Slovakia's capital, Bratislava is definitely the most expensive destination in the country – but even here, you can keep your trip cheap by taking advantage of the many free things the city has to offer.

In addition to many tiny galleries spread throughout the entire city, Bratislava is also home to lots of street sculptures – from bronze workmen coming out of sewer holes to life-size Napoleon's soldiers leaning against benches. Despite being the capital, Bratislava is relatively small and can be easily explored on foot , as most of the attractions and top things to do are located around the Old Town center area – if you're headed outside the city, trains and buses are cheap and very comfortable.

If you're looking for outdoor adventure, however, Slovakia offers plenty of things to do – and most of them are free. The High Tatras, Slovakia's tallest mountains and a massive national park, has hundreds of kilometers of hiking trails. Between June and October, the trails are perfect for hiking and exploring. In winter, many of them become great destinations for snowshoeing, as well as downhill and cross-country skiing. All national parks are free in Slovakia .

Slovakia is also home to many UNESCO World Heritage Sites , castles, memorials, and monuments – all free or very cheap to discover.

Poland's main cities – Krakow and Warsaw – are not always cheap, so if they are your main destinations, avoid visiting in the summer . Shoulder season (especially the months of March and April) are ideal months to travel to urban Poland – the weather is warming up, the prices are still low, and the castles and palaces that were closed during the winter are opening up again, often at discounted prices.

Poland's most famous destinations – including the Auschwitz-Birkenau camps, the Wieliczka Salt Mine, and Schindler's factory – are much less crowded in the off-season, so you won't waste time waiting in line. Many other attractions around the country are either very cheap or free to access, including climbing the Old Town Hall tower for great views in Krakow, the 13th-century Castle of the Teutonic Order in Malbork, and the ancient Bialowieza Forest.

In the larger cities, museums often offer one free day a week – for example, the Royal Castle in Warsaw is free to enter on Wednesdays, while the Chopin Museum is free on Sundays.

While trains aren't always very cheap in Poland, you can get almost anywhere via bus for very little money. Long-distance buses such as Flixbus are comfortable, offer free Wi-Fi, and will get you to even the tiniest towns in Poland.

The Czech Republic is not as affordable as it used to be, but if much of your travel is outside the capital city of Prague, you'll be able to find plenty of bargains. This is especially true during the colder months (except for the second half of December, as the weeks around Christmastime are prime tourist season). January and February are the cheapest months , with March through May also offering some great discounts on flights and accommodations.

Many of Prague's main attractions are free but also part of many paid tours – rather than paying to be taken there, it makes more sense to grab a map and explore them on your own. This includes walking on Charles Bridge, stopping by the Astronomical Clock, and walking the cobblestone streets of Old Town Square and its medieval buildings.

Things get much cheaper at other major destinations around the country – including the fairy-tale town of Cesky Krumlov , the unusual town of Sedlec and its ossuary chapel, and the never-ending trails and mountains in Bohemian Switzerland National Park. Even during high season, the hotels at these destinations will be affordable if you book enough in advance.

Albania remains one of Europe's best-kept secrets. In addition to plenty of historical sights, amazing nature, and great summer weather, Albania also offers a long coastline – known as the Albanian Riviera – of pristine beaches and turquoise waters without the sticker-shock prices of other European destinations. Even the more famous beach destinations, such as Dhërmi and Ksamil, see moderate international tourism and offer very affordable accommodations and restaurants all year long.

To save even more, avoid the summer months if you're heading to the coast, and instead book your holiday for April, May, and early June (except for Easter week, when prices go up). It'll still be warm enough to enjoy the beach, but you'll enjoy special discounts, and avoid the crowds. If you're coming over for hiking or exploring the cities on foot, late September and October are good options.

While the winter months will offer bigger discounts for city stays (and yes, this includes the capital, Tirana, a great starting point for exploring the country), the mountains are too cold for casual outdoor adventures starting in November.

Sit-down restaurants are very affordable in Albania, but cafés and casual eateries even more so. Local bakeries are another great option to save money, as you can pick up a number of local pastries – including the traditional spinach-and-cheese-filled Byrek – for pennies to carry as snacks for the day.

While not the cheapest country on this list, Bosnia-Herzegovina has one big advantage over other destinations: prices for flights and accommodations don't vary much during the year. This means you can visit in summer and enjoy rafting on the Neretva River, or come over during the winter months for some Christmas market shopping and plenty of skiing on a budget.

There are plenty of very affordable ski resorts, such as Jahorina and Babin Do, just a short drive away from the capital city, Sarajevo.

Restaurants aren't particularly expensive here, but sticking to traditional and regional foods will save you even more money, as these can be found in smaller cafés or street stalls. Look for places serving Ćevapi (kebabs), Pljeskavica (grilled patty), and Đuveč (vegetable stew). Bosnia is also famous for its farmers' markets, where it's easy and very cheap to pick up fruits or pastries to snack on the go.

Croatia is definitely a buzzy, must-see destination. Stretched along the northern coast of the Adriatic Sea, Croatia is famous for its spectacular beaches , soaring mountains, medieval villages, and dozens of gorgeous islands.

With so much beauty and so many things to do in Croatia , you would think it would be one of the most expensive countries in Europe. But to many travelers' surprise and delight, it's actually one of the most affordable, depending on where you visit.

Most tourists head to the cities of Dubrovnik and Split — made internationally famous thanks to the filming of HBO's Game of Thrones series. This skyrocketed these medieval cities to worldwide fame, and tourists have started coming by the thousands. As to be expected, the most popular tourist hubs in Dubrovnik and Split can be expensive, but if you venture outside of these epicenters, the price tag gets considerably more affordable.

Zagreb , the country's capital, for example, is a very affordable city with fabulous restaurants, dozens of museums, and a walkable hilltop Old Town. Other medieval towns to consider are Zadar, Trogir, and Sibenik.

Croatia is also home to nearly 10 national parks and even more nature parks to explore. Visit national parks during the low season (January, February, March, November, and December) for the lowest ticket prices (around 10 euros). In high season (June July, August, and September), prices can get as high as 40 euro per person.

Dining in Croatia is very affordable, as well, particularly if you're sticking to local dishes like seafood, local cheeses, meats, and regional delicacies. Italian food is also very affordable in Croatia, as Italy is just across the sea.

Over the past decade, Estonia's capital, Tallinn, has become a hub for entrepreneurs and the self-employed, so it's no surprise that prices are higher here than in the rest of the country. Luckily, most visitors to Estonia only stay in the capital for a few days before moving on to explore some of the country's top things to do .

Outside the capital, Estonia offers plenty of low-cost accommodations and cuisine – and this is even true in Tartu, Estonia's second-largest city, where there's a lively art and music scene, including plenty of free festivals throughout the year.

Almost half of Estonia is covered in forests or other natural landscapes, so if you're looking for an outdoor vacation that won't break the bank, it doesn't get much better than this. National parks are free to enter and explore in Estonia . Otepää Nature Park, the country's largest protected area at over 22,000 hectares, offers 65 lakes and plenty of trails (the 14-kilometer-long Lake Pühajärv hiking trail is particularly picturesque).

March to May and September to October are great months to visit, with up to 12 hours of daylight that make it easy to spend time outdoors exploring on foot. Plus, May and September are still warm and pleasant, but prices are much lower than in summer.

Italy is one of the cheapest Western European countries to visit. This is still a much more costly destination than those found higher on this list, particularly those in Eastern Europe. The rates here can also depend on when you are visiting.

The public transportation system in Italy is so amazing, there's truly no reason to ever grab a taxi while there. That said, if you're trying to cover everything from Milan to Pompeii in one visit, you'll end up spending lots of money on high-speed trains – if at all possible, just pick one region and stick to it, so you can just use local trains and buses to move around.

If you absolutely must see the sights of Rome and Venice on one trip, the local slower trains will take three times longer but cost you a quarter of the price. The same is true when it comes to the country's major tourist sites – the bigger ones, such as the Colosseum or the Vatican, all have significant entry fees, so pick just a few favorites and spend the rest of your trip visiting cheap or free attractions, such as strolling around the Villa Borghese Gardens or tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain.

The best thing you can do to save money in Italy is to avoid visiting in summer , when everything costs more, the lines for attractions are hours long, and the sticky weather makes it all a little more inconvenient. Even winter is a good time to visit, as most of Italy never gets truly cold – the average temperature in Rome in January is 7 degrees Celsius, but on sunny days it can easily reach 12 degrees Celsius. From November to February, you'll get great deals on accommodations and often cheap flights.

It's almost a crime to visit Italy and not order a big plate of pasta at a trattoria , but the country's local markets are an equally great choice. Spend a couple of hours browsing through the weekend markets to pick up some cheese, fresh bread, and sweets like fette biscottate to create your own snacks or quick lunches. In big cities, you'll also be charged to sit at most café s and restaurants , so order your coffee to go or drink it standing up – the savings add up if you're a coffee fan.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Extending Your European Vacation: Looking for specific cheap European destinations to discover? Take a look at our list of Top-Rated Cheap Places to Visit in Europe for some inspiration. For warm-weather destinations that match all budgets, see our article on the Top-Rated Places to Visit in Europe in Summer .

Discovering Eastern European Countries: Castles, mountains, and historical destinations await in Romania – take a look at our article on the Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Bucharest for some inspiration.

More on Czech Republic

20 Best Cities to Visit in Europe on the Cheap

Where to go for cheap travel in europe.

Europe can cost a lot of money as a travel destination. Cities like Stockholm, Paris and London are so expensive, even Europeans complain about them. 

But that doesn’t mean cheap travel isn’t possible on the continent. There are plenty of places that offer beauty, history and good food without breaking the bank.

These are the best cities in Europe for surprisingly cheap travel.

Note: We may earn money from affiliate partners if you buy through links on our site.

20. Ljubljana, Slovenia

Best budget stay:  ibis Styles Ljubljana Centre

Best cheap attraction: The Dragon Bridge is a free attraction that provides some of the coolest photo ops in the city.

Note: This list comes from U.S. News and World Report's 2023-24 report .

Visiting Ljubljana on a Budget

The Slovenian capital remains an underrated and overlooked gem. With terracotta rooftops, stone bridges that cross the Ljubljanica River and a castle on a hill, this is storybook Europe at its finest. 

Ljubljana’s relative lack of fame works for budget travelers, as prices are much cheaper here than in other places that compare in beauty. A great way to see everything without spending a lot of money is to buy the Ljubljana Card , which provides entrances to several attractions, public transport, bike rental and even a river cruise.

19. Galway, Ireland

Best budget stay: Salthill Hotel  

Best cheap attraction: If you can find transportation to it, there is no entrance to the wild and beautiful Connemara National Park.

How to Visit Galway on a Budget

Ireland’s second city may be relatively small, but it packs a punch and doesn’t ask you to pay much for it. The Galway City Museum, the Galway Cathedral and St. Nicholas’s Collegiate Church are free to enter. This means you’ll have more money to spend at the pub at night.

If you have a car or know someone who does, don’t skip taking a drive along the Wild Atlantic Way, which will give you unprecedented views of the Emerald Isle’s coastline.

18. Split, Croatia

Best budget stay:  Central Square Heritage Hotel  

Best cheap attraction: The Fortress of Starigard can be reached by hiking uphill for about an hour. At the top, there are incredible panoramic views, and the experience will only set you back about $4.

Visiting Split on a Budget

Split is one of Croatia’s most popular cities, yet it remains fairly affordable. The best thing to do is visit the Old Town, where cobblestone streets meet the ruins of Diocletian’s Palace. What makes the center so unique is that what’s left of the Roman palace has become a central part of city life, rather than being cordoned off. It’s also free for you to explore and enjoy as much as you want.

Other free and amazing activities include hiking the Marjan Hill and watching the sunset over the Adriatic Sea.

17. Zagreb, Croatia

Best budget stay: Canopy by Hilton Zagreb City Centre

Best cheap attraction: Go on the hunt for amazing street art, which is so noteworthy that the city has started a Street Art Museum project.

How to Visit Zagreb on a Budget

Even though Dubrovnik gets more attention, Zagreb is the perfect place for those looking to beat the crowds. Free attractions include the Dolac Market, a local favorite and a great place to find souvenirs, and the Zagreb Botanical Garden. At the garden, you’ll find numerous native and non-native species as well as a stunning arboretum. 

Luckily, accommodations in the center are far from costly. This also means you won’t have to spend much money on transportation to get to sites like the Stone Gate and the Zagreb Cathedral.

16. Berlin, Germany

Best budget stay: Capri by Fraser Berlin

Best cheap attraction: Every Wednesday at 1 p.m. between September and June, the world-famous Berlin Philharmonic performs free shows that are open to the public.

Visiting Berlin on a Budget

If you needed another reason to think that Berlin is the coolest place in Europe, here it is. The capital city isn’t content to have world-class museums, countless historical attractions, more parks than you could visit, interesting architecture and possibly the continent’s best nightlife. It also has to offer all of this at a great price. 

Several main attractions are free. This includes the iconic Brandenburg Gate and the somber Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe. The Topography of Terror, a museum housed in former Nazi headquarters, is also free. Another popular place to enjoy without having to pay is the East Side Gallery, where street artists have found a perfect canvas on what’s left of the inner Berlin Wall.

15. Vienna, Austria

Best budget stay: Hotel Schani Wien

Best cheap attraction: For about $6, you can go up the South Tower of St. Stephen’s Cathedral and get amazing views of Vienna.

Visiting Vienna on a Budget

Another European capital to make it to the list, Vienna is like Berlin’s less loud, more refined older sister. You won’t get to go to the city’s famed Opera House for cheap, but there are plenty of other activities that travelers with limited budgets can enjoy.

St. Stephen’s Cathedral is the most popular free attraction. Cultural institutions like the House of Music and the Museum of Applied Arts also have discounted prices for specific dates and times. For food, look for restaurants with a set menu, or mittagsmenu, which typically costs about $12. Those with a sweet tooth will be happy to know that enjoying a famous sachertorte and coffee is an inexpensive local pastime.

14. Reykjavik, Iceland

Best budget stay:  Eyja Guldsmeden Hotel

Best cheap attraction: Take a free walking tour to get the lay of the land with a local guide.

Visiting Reykjavik on a Budget

We're not going to lie to you — Iceland isn't the cheapest destination on this list by a long shot, but there are ways to visit Reykjavik without completely blowing your travel budget. First and foremost, visit during the offseason months of September, October, February and March for cheaper accommodations while still being able to see the northern lights.

We also recommend a hike up Mount Esja for some of the best views in the area or a walk or bike ride along the city's coastline.

13. Granada, Spain

Best budget stay: Hotel Anacapri  

Best cheap attraction: The 19th-century Carmen de los Martires offers free admission. It has six large gardens, all done in different styles, including one imitating Alhambra’s famous Nasrid Gardens.  

Visiting Granada on a Budget

The main reason people visit beautiful Granada is to see the Alhambra. Sadly, the palace is not what we’d call cheap. But at around $36, it’s also not impossible, especially since this is simply the most beautiful Islamic palace in Spain. 

For budget travelers, the good news is that pretty much everything else in the city is cheap. Enjoy drinks and tapas for under $5, walk around the pretty Andalusian city, and visit parks and gardens to see other examples of Moorish architecture.

Best budget stay: Solana Hotel & Spa

Best cheap attraction:  If you're visiting in the summer, hit the beaches and go swimming.

Visiting Malta on a Budget

Like most European destinations, a visit to the island's ornate churches is always worth your time because they're free.

But most museums are also quite inexpensive, and if you plan on visiting a bunch in one trip, you can get the Malta Pass , which offers heavily discounted rates.

11. Corfu, Greece

Best budget stay: Cavalieri Hotel  

Best cheap attraction: Indulge in olives and olive oil. Corfu has around 2 million olive trees, which means that this healthy and nutritious food is abundant and cheap throughout the island.

Visiting Corfu on a Budget

Corfu is located on the Ionian Sea. As such, it is closer to Italy and Albania than it is to the Aegean Greek Isles. With two Venetian fortresses, a grand palace, imposing mountains and a long shoreline, there are plenty of (cheap and free) things to do on the island. 

Most of your time will be spent walking around and sunbathing, so you’ll save money while enjoying the island. There are also several churches and monasteries to visit, most of which are free of charge. Food in all of Greece is deliciously affordable, so you’ll get to relish in the Mediterranean diet while having money left over for all the souvenirs you could want.

10. Tallinn, Estonia

Best budget stay: Palace Hotel Tallinn

Best cheap attraction: The famed Dome Church is free and open to the public whenever services aren't taking place; however, a donation is highly recommended.

Visiting Tallinn on a Budget

Most people would never believe it possible to find a Baltic capital on a ranking of cheap European destinations. But Tallinn likes to surprise. It’s kind of its thing. 

Woefully underrated and under-visited, those in the know can take advantage of the city’s relatively inexpensive prices. Enjoy the Medieval Old Town, visit the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and spend time at the Kadriorg Park, which dates back about 300 years. 

9. Seville, Spain

Best budget stay: Hotel Baco  

Best cheap attraction: Plaza de España is Seville’s most important attraction. You can tour the semi-circular building and the square for no cost at all.

How to Visit Seville on a Budget

There is no town in Andalusia that isn’t breathtaking. So when people say Seville is the crown jewel of the Spanish region, you know it’s something special. 

The best part about the city is it's accessible to all kinds of travelers, including those who have to mind their budgets. Most of the best things in the city are free, including the Plaza de España, which virtually defines the city. Other free attractions include the Inquisition Museum and the Palacio de los Marqueses de Algaba. At the latter, you’ll see fine examples of Mudejar architecture, the Christian-Islamic mix that defines the region. 

8. Lisbon, Portugal

Best budget stay: Hotel Real Palacio  

Best cheap attraction: Lisbon has more than 30 miradours , or viewpoints that offer beautiful vistas over the city. Most of them are completely free to visit and are a popular spot for locals.

How to Visit Lisbon on a Budget

Hills and coastline define the topography of Lisbon, the cheapest Western European capital. This is a city that really checks all the right boxes. It has amazing food, friendly people, beautiful architecture, unique music, great weather and many parks. And it offers them all at bargain prices. 

The cheapest way to see the city is by foot, but you can get a Lisbon Card if you’re planning on using public transportation a lot. Many of the things to do in the city are free, since attractions mainly involve walking up and down the hills, taking in views and appreciating the Portuguese azulejos that transform the facade of buildings into works of art.

7. Dubrovnik, Croatia

Best budget stay: City Hotel Dubrovnik

Best cheap attraction:  Walk through the Pile Gate to explore Dubrovnik's famous, walled Old Town.

How to Visit Dubrovnik on a Budget

While the architecture within Old Town can't be missed, it's important to get outside and walk along the coastline or to the top of Mount Srd for breathtaking views of the water from above.

Of course, "Game of Thrones" fans will be tempted to spend the typical $50 on a GoT Tour, but there are several self-guided tours available online that won't cost you a thing.

6. Istanbul, Turkey

Best budget stay: Turk Art Hotel  

Best cheap attraction: The Archaeology Museums is a cluster of museums that contains one of the largest collections of classical sculptures and art. The group is made up of the Archaeological Museum, the Museum of the Ancient Orient and the Museum of Islamic Art. The entrance fee to each museum is about $3.50.

Visiting Istanbul on a Budget

A city famously straddling between Europe and Asia, Istanbul is a living museum. Walking around the city will allow you to see incredible landmarks like the Roman Hippodrome and the Egyptian obelisks for completely free. Even better, the emblematic Hagia Sophia Mosque and the Blue Mosque are also free. 

Food is very cheap and very good, so most of your money will probably go towards buying beautiful decorations, clothes and items at the city’s many markets.

5. Athens, Greece

Best budget stay: St George Lycabettus Hotel  

Best cheap attraction: Aristotle’s Lyceum, where the Greek philosopher once held his Peripatetic School, is free and open to the public.

How to Visit Athens on a Budget

Once a center for an empire that continues to define Western culture, Athens is surprisingly inexpensive. The city invites all to rejoice in its numerous ruins, with many metro stations displaying archaeological findings for commuters and travelers. 

Food and accommodations are also affordable, so you don’t have to feel guilty about splurging on Greek food. This also gives you more leeway to visit the Acropolis, whose entrance costs about $25. 

Take advantage of the city’s many hills to wander through neighborhoods, get a glimpse at how locals live and get a bird’s eye view of the city. We recommend Strefi Hill, where you’ll also find one of the best outdoor basketball courts in the world.

4. Budapest, Hungary

Best budget stay: Roombach Hotel Budapest Center  

Best cheap attraction: Walk up the whimsical Fisherman’s Bastions for free and get a panoramic view of the city center, including the astonishing Parliament building.

How to Visit Budapest on a Budget

Budapest’s beauty is free for anyone to gawk at. This is particularly true along the Danube River, where anyone can simply walk about and take in the sight of the Buda Castle and the Parliament Building. It is also a perfect place to catch a sunset. Another cheap but worthy attraction is the Memento Statue Park, where for about $6 you can see all the communist statues that have been taken down and gathered in one place for those interested in seeing them.

The Hungarian capital also has reasonably priced food and drink, so you can try Hungarian wine and goulash without even thinking about the cost. 

3. Valencia, Spain

Best budget stay: Hotel Valencia Center  

Best cheap attraction: Any of the city’s beautiful sandy beaches are worth a visit.

Visiting Valencia on a Budget

Valencia is a thrilling mix of modern and Medieval architecture. While it is certainly a famous destination, it’s not as famous as we think it should be. Not only will you get all the best of Spain, including the delicious jamones, cheap wines and Moorish architecture, but you will also find extensive public beaches.

If you’re on a tight budget, you can spend time at the Central Market, or visit Valencia Cathedral and the Plaza del Ayuntamiento.

2. Prague, Czech Republic

Best budget stay: Mosaic House Design Hotel

Best cheap attraction: At the turn of every hour every day, the Astronomical Clock at the Old Town Hall provides a free animated show to anyone in the Old Town Square.

Visiting Prague on a Budget

With storybook beauty, Prague is a city you visit simply to see it with your own eyes. The top things to do include walking on Charles Bridge, going up Petrin Hill and spending time at the Old Town Square. And none of these attractions charge anything. 

Accommodations, drinks and food are also very cheap, so budget travelers can experience the picturesque city just as much as more affluent travelers. We recommend spending most of your time just walking about town, drinking Pilsner Urquell and understanding for yourself why Prague is considered one of the best places to visit in Europe .

1. Porto, Portugal

Best budget stay: HF Ipanema Porto

Best cheap attraction: Porto residents and travelers head to the public Crystal Palace Gardens to get magnificent views of the Douro River and Porto.

Visiting Porto on a Budget

If Porto beats every other city in Europe — even Lisbon — as the best budget destination, it’s because it's beautiful almost to the point of absurdity. Like the rest of Portugal, it’s also very cheap. 

Most of the tourist area centers around the Douro River, where you can stroll about, catching street performers or capoeira groups doing their thing as large crowds gather around to watch. Thank Europe for its open container laws, buy a $3 bottle of wine — we promise it’ll be one of the best you’ve ever tasted — and sit by the edge of the river to take it all in. 

You can also walk about looking for photo ops with azulejos, the country’s famed blue tiles. Or take advantage of the free entrance to the city’s main attractions, like the Porto Cathedral and the Dom Luis I Bridge.

Honorable Mention: Glasgow, Scotland

Best budget stay: Ambassador Hotel

Best cheap attraction: The Gallery of Modern Art is one of Scotland's most popular museums and is free of charge.

Visiting Glasgow on a Budget

While this Scottish city didn't make the list of top 20 cheap travel destinations, we had to include it because it's one of the most affordable in the entire United Kingdom.

Glasgow also provides free admission to some of its most important places of interest, including the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum and the Gallery of Modern Art.

Honorable Mention: Bucharest, Romania

Best budget stay: Hilton Garden Inn Bucharest Old Town

Best cheap attraction: Herastrau Park, Bucharest’s largest park, is a popular spot with locals for picnicking, reading, people-watching, or simply lying on the grass and enjoying the sun.

Visiting Bucharest on a Budget

Another European city that we had to include, Bucharest is beautiful, cheap and free of crowds. You won’t have to pay much to see the confluence of history and modernity that make the city pulse with an exciting energy.

For around $2, you can visit the Curtea Veche Palace, whose former resident, Vlad the Impaler gave rise to the myth of Dracula. The Soviet-era Palace of Parliament, the second-largest administrative building in the world, will only set you back $10. Food, beer and accommodations are also extremely cheap.

Honorable Mention: Belgrade, Serbia

Best budget stay: Hotel City Savoy  

Best cheap attraction: The Belgrade Fortress is the city’s most iconic landmark. The entrance fee is less than $5.

Visiting Belgrade on a Budget

The Serbian capital was once the heart of Yugoslavia and an important city for the Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman and Austrian empires. Like many former Soviet nations, Serbia is relatively cheap compared to Western European countries, yet packs a heavy load of history. 

You’ll find that accommodations, food and transportation are very affordable. U.S. News and World Report points out the Church of Saint Sava as a perfect budget travel attraction. You can see one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world for free.

11 tips for traveling Europe on a budget

Traveling Europe — in Normal Times — can be an expensive splurge or an affordable adventure depending on where you go, how you plan to arrive and what you plan to do at your destination. Although the continent seems small, a quick hop to Ireland is a world away from a five-hour flight to the Canary Islands or an Interrail adventure to the Swiss Alps. With so many diverse countries to choose from, it can often be overwhelming to plan a trip -- especially if you're tight on funds. But if you follow the below tips, you can have a fantastic vacation that won't blow your budget.

1. Get creative with points and miles

Having a stash of points and miles is great, but if you don't really know how to use them , they won't get you very far. So get creative with your points and miles and remember to think outside the box when using them.

For example, if you can't find award availability on British Airways using your Avios, you can transfer them to Iberia or Aer Lingus for a whole slew of other redemption options.

Remember that partner airlines are always an opportunity and that your credit card points are transferrable to airlines that maybe aren't as common. For example, American Express Membership Rewards points transfer to airlines like Aer Lingus and Air France-KLM.

Read more: The ultimate guide to Amex Membership Rewards

2. Fly low-cost

With many spots in Europe just two-hours or less away by plane, flying a low-cost carrier isn't so bad -- as long as you know the rules. Remember that you'll be charged extra for pretty much everything, so plan ahead if you want to check a bag, board first or reserve your seat. If you are country hopping, consider choosing a home base and planning weekend trips so you don't have to check all your luggage. And when you snag a deal for $50, $25 or even$10, just grab your under-the-seat backpack and go -- you won't regret it.

3. Travel in the off-season

Traveling in off-season or shoulder-season will save you money on flights, hotels and award redemptions. Plus, you'll deal with fewer crowds and avoid long lines, especially when visiting major tourist attractions.

Flights and hotels may offer cash deals in the off-season and remember that most airlines have peak and off-peak calendars when it comes to award redemptions, charging fewer miles/points during off-peak dates.

And consider that some hotel loyalty programs, such as Bonvoy, now have both peak and off-peak points redemptions , so if you choose to redeem during off-peak dates, your points will extend even further.

Generally speaking, most European countries' off/shoulder-seasons are October to November and January to June. Of course, avoiding major celebrations like Christmas and Easter, as well as busy bank holiday weekends, will also ensure you get the best rates.

4. Visit affordable destinations

Visiting Paris and Amsterdam (even if you do get an affordable flight deal and are able to use points for a hotel stay) won't run cheap. Instead, consider some cheaper cities in Europe, such as Krakow, Porto, Bucharest, Kiev, Budapest and beyond. A good rule of thumb is to decide what type of vacation you hope to have and then look for alternative options.

For lazy beach days, skip the French Riviera and head to Sicily or the Albanian Riviera instead. Ditch Santorini for a lesser-visited Greek Island like Paxos, Sifnos or Symi. Wine taste in Estonia, not Bordeaux, admire art in Madrid, not Vienna, or ski in Spain's Sierra Nevada instead of the Swiss Alps. Whatever style of European vacation you'd like to have, you can do on a budget -- just pull out a map and think outside of the traditional hotspots.

Read more : Long layover in Madrid? Here's all you need to know

5. Stay in a home rental or hostel

Home rentals can actually save travelers a lot of money -- and not just on the actual rate of the rental, but also on dining out or doing laundry . Since home rentals often come with amenities like a full kitchen or washing machine, you can cook your meals and wash your clothes at home, which is a huge money saver -- especially for a lengthy stay. And living like a local has cultural benefits, too, like getting a real feel for a city and how its residents go about their daily routines.

Hostels are another cost-effective alternative to hotels. And it's not what you think: these types of lodgings aren't all bunk beds and backpackers. In fact, many European hostels come with private bathrooms and bedrooms, more like small hotels than anything else. Plus, Europe is seeing an uptick of trendy boutique hostels such as the Generator brand, meaning you can still have a comfortable accommodation experience while not overspending.

6. Use the right card for purchases abroad

Unfortunately, some points-earning credit cards charge a foreign transaction fee (about 3%). However, depending on the value of the points you can earn, you may (or may not) come out on top when using it abroad. To find out, check out the TPG's monthly points valuations to see how valuable certain point currencies are.

While we almost never recommend using a debit card, but it may make sense in many instances when spending abroad. For the best cards to use, check out this guide on best cards to use abroad .

7. Know the tipping rules

Whether it's 10% or nothing at all, understanding the tipping culture can help you avoid a faux pas post-meal or after a taxi ride, as well as ensuring you don't spend money unnecessarily. Apps like Gratitude Tipping can help, showing you the rules by country for tipping drivers, guides, restaurant waiting staff, bartenders and hotel staff.

8. Don't discount trains

Although trains aren't always super cheap, sometimes they can be affordable and easy -- especially when booked in advance. Trains will help you avoid airport delays, turbulence and are generally more comfortable than a teeny airplane seat. If you need to travel with a lot of baggage or extras, trains can also be an ideal choice. And some European train journeys are incredibly scenic, making the train ride a vacation in itself. For those heading off on a backpacking adventure, Interrail passes are a valid option.

9. Travel light

Almost all European airlines charge for checked baggage -- and many taxi drivers around Europe will also add on fees for luggage, too. You can avoid this by packing light and right, using things like packing cubes or wearing travel clothing .

10. Do a free walking tour

Most European cities offer free walking tours. Check online before traveling, sign up in advance if necessary and enjoy your free tour. Although tipping is suggested, it's likely you'll still spend a lot less, even after generously tipping your guide. You may also meet other like-minded travelers, which can be welcome if you're traveling alone or looking to make new friends.

11. Check on your mobile data

While some mobile networks offer free roaming in Europe, it's a good idea to confirm to ensure you won't see any added roaming charges. There's nothing worse than receiving a hefty mobile bill upon return when you're already dealing with post-vacation blues. If your network doesn't offer free-roaming, see how much roaming rates cost before traveling, or consider buying a local SIM card upon arrival to your destination.

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

17 of the cheapest nicest city breaks in Europe to add to your bucket list

By Anna Prendergast and Connor Sturges

City breaks can be one of the most effective ways to tap into a country’s culture. Whether it’s a whirlwind weekend or a fortnight of getting to know a new neighbourhood, city breaks offer a full-bodied, in-at-the-deep-end immersion that beach resorts and remote country hotels seldom can. But that cultural crash course can come with a price tag, and hidden ones at that; flights from London to Venice sell for less than £20, but it’s one of Europe’s most expensive cities for accommodation and food. So we’ve broken down some of the latest data and tapped into editor intel on cheap city breaks in Europe for 2024, from a coastal cosmopolis to a snow-capped ski city.

In 2023, the Post Office released new data ranking affordable city breaks in Europe. You'll find some of the cities from their study below – including Lisbon , Athens and Riga. The full list from the Post Office is as follows:

Lisbon, Portugal

• Vilnius, Lithuania

Krakow, Poland

Athens, greece, riga, latvia.

• Porto, Portugal

Zagreb, Croatia

Budapest, hungary.

• Warsaw, Poland

Lille, France

Below, we've also included some of our favourite affordable European city breaks that might be a little less known, such as Klagenfurt in Austria and Berat, Albania. Going off the beaten track is a wonderful way to make your money go further – while exploring a lesser-trammelled part of the continent.

What is the cheapest European city for a holiday?

In 2023, the Portuguese capital of Lisbon won the title of the cheapest European city break thanks to its affordable food scene, cheap transport and bargain flights. Plus, Lisbon has, on average, the cheapest beer – all the more reason to visit.

What is the most expensive city in Europe?

Post Office data released in 2023 ranked Amsterdam as the most expensive city break in Europe.

Note: you’ll notice some wonderful European cities missing from this list, namely Kyiv. It has been tragically affected by the war in Ukraine, and should be avoided until safe to visit – until then, find out how to help the people of Ukraine right now , and see how you can support through your travel choices .

17 cheap city breaks in Europe

Tirana, Albania

Ten years ago, Albania was rarely on the radar of Brits craving a city break. That’s changing fast. Social media feeds showcasing the beauty of Albania ’s coastal stretches have piqued interest in the destination, and, in turn, many travellers are dipping their toes into the country with a long weekend in the capital. Since emerging from a drowsy communist slumber in the 1990s, the city is alive with colour and curiosity. Learn about Albania’s fascinating past at the National History Museum before boutique-hopping and coffee-sipping in upmarket Blloku. Best of all, Tirana offers some of the cheapest rooms in Europe. Hotel Mondial is the perfect four-star spot after long days exploring the city with its rooftop pool.

Istanbul, Turkey

Europe’s only bi-continental city is a feast for the senses. Gold glistens from shop windows in the Grand Bazaar, piles of saffron and heaps of cinnamon scent the Spice Bazaar, and stomachs rumble on tours of the ancient city’s tastiest, in-the-know spots. Religions and cultures clash at every corner – marvel at the Blue Mosque before a short walk to the gilded Hagia Sophia, originally a 6th-century church. The pound goes a long way here, so ensure there’s space in the suitcase to return with cupboard essentials and fashionable finds. Should you fall in love with the hand-woven carpets and art, shipping may be a necessary expense. The metropolis is home to plenty of opulent hotels , from the Mandarin Oriental to the Four Seasons Hotel Bosphorus ; however, stay at The Bank Hotel Istanbul for a less costly trip. It’s a member of Design Hotels, so expect all the luxury trimmings and shoulder-season stays for well under £200 a night.

Poland’s second city is rich in culture, has a thriving hospitality scene, and is pleasingly easy on the pursestrings. In the lead-up to Christmas , historic squares house charming markets where traders sell punchy, steaming concoctions and festive trinkets. Over summer, the same corners of the city come alive as visitors drink and dine on the cobbles before itinerary ticking their way around with visits to the imposing St Mary’s Basilica and trips down the Vistula. There are cheap hotels aplenty here, but, for something more characterful, check into Stradom House , a 14th-century church and monastery converted into one of Poland’s smartest places to stay.

Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Cut off from the intricate rail network that has served much of Europe for over 25 years, Bosnia and Herzegovina retains a mystique that draws in-the-know travellers over the border from nearby Croatia in growing numbers. The country is home to one of the continent’s few remaining Indigenous Muslim populations and is a world away, architecturally and culturally, from neighbouring countries known for their beach resorts. Mostar’s highlights can be done in a day, but allow two or three, perhaps incorporating a day trip outside the enchanting city, to get under the skin of a destination so many travellers know such little about. Stay at Hotel-Restaurant Kriva Ćuprija , set in a heritage-listed limestone house just steps away from the UNESCO-protected Old Bridge.

It might be surprising, but according to a study that came out in May 2023, Lisbon is the cheapest city break in Europe right now . It's the first time the city has topped the Post Office's list of affordable European cities. If you'd like to plan a trip, several budget airlines fly from London to Lisbon (Ryanair, easyJet, Wizz Air, Tap Air Portugal), and while the pretty Portuguese capital is known for its award-winning restaurants , travellers can still dine out on a dime – a three-course meal averages around £39. On the move, you’ll get change from a two-euro coin when buying coffee or a mandatory pastel de nata from Pastéis de Belém. Beer here is the cheapest of any city that came out in the top 10 at around £2.26 (putting London’s £6 pints to shame) and a Viva Viagem card can save you up to half off tram journeys. For a place to stay, there are plenty of affordable hotels in Lisbon . We love Hotel 1908 , where smart rooms in one of the city’s most iconic buildings can be booked from £104 per night. Or you can save further by opting for an Airbnb. Some of the city's top trending Airbnbs, like this pretty apartment with a private balcony in Lapa , can be taken over for around £50 per night.

This year’s Post Office City Costs Barometer ranked Greece’s historical capital as the fourth cheapest city break in Europe . Hotels in Athens are particularly good value, with plenty of small, family-run and boutique bedrooms. According to the survey, two nights at a three-star hotel for two guests average £89 – but super-central One Three One is steps away from Monastiraki Flea Market and goes as low as £52 per night, while guests will find balcony views of the acropolis at Hotel Adonis , which has a rooftop terrace and costs as low as £83 for a double room (breakfast included).

According to the Post Office, Riga is one of the cheapest cities in Europe – it came out fifth in the 2023 rankings. Wind your way through the narrow alleyways of the charming Old Town, find €2 samsas for lunch at the central covered market located in converted Zeppelin hangars, watch free live music in Dome Square and see striking architecture such as the House of the Blackheads (€6 entry) and the medieval Swedish Gate. But one of the most underrated ways of seeing Riga is on the water – rent a paddleboard for just €15 on the banks of the Daugava River.

Culture can be found on every corner of this city. Hop on a flight (a one-way ticket from London to Zagreb can get as low as £13) and spend your days strolling through the city’s (surprisingly pedestrian-friendly) streets, pop by open-air markets (Dolac Market has excellent local food) and sit down at outdoor cafés to watch the world go by.

CNT Editors

CNT Editors , CN Traveller

This French city is accessible via Eurostar in just one and a half hours from London, and flights from London can be as cheap at £43. Once you’re there, knowing the under-the-radar places to book is key. Mama Shelter Lille is a colourful haven very close to both of the city’s main train stations with rooms from £79, and there are a host of locally revered restaurants nearby. Head to Rue des Bouchers for cute bistrot vibes – Chez Brigitte has a lunch menu offering three courses for €29, or visit some of the local markets for stalls and trucks selling mouthwatering dishes and local-inspired cuisine.

Delve deeper beyond the typical tourist traps and you’ll find a host of tucked away spots that are surprisingly affordable. The city has an incredible architectural heritage, so walk through both sides of the city admiring buildings and you may stumble upon some globally revered masterpieces – according to co-founder and former editor-in-chief of WeLoveBudapest.com, Regina Papp . There are some amazing hotels in Budapest too, with plenty of affordable options.

Klagenfurt, Austria

When return flights from the UK to Klagenfurt are cheaper than a one-way train ticket from London to Birmingham , it seems rude not to (and as far as I’m aware, Birmingham doesn’t benefit from an Alpine backdrop and Mediterranean climate). Klagenfurt is one of Austria’s most affordable cities to visit (main courses are around €6; the farmers’ market on Benediktinerplatz is a great place for local bargains), and its spectacular setting on the eastern bank of Lake Wörthersee makes it one of the most scenic, too. June is the cheapest time to go, before the summer crowds and wild swimmers descend on the waterfront.

Kaunas, Lithuania

Vilnius has long been topping lists of the cheapest places to go on holiday , but Kaunas to the west is even less expensive, and earlier this year was named as one of 2022’s European Capitals of Culture for its music, art and theatre. Its yearly CityTelling Festival hosts a wide variety of performances and exhibitions that place the city’s Jewish heritage centre stage, and access to most events is free, while four-star hotel rooms are as little as €60 a night. For the best views of the Baltic city, a funicular up Aleksoto Hill will cost just a couple of euros. The best bargain in town? Spurginė’s €0.75 spurgos (or doughnuts).

Berat, Albania

Like Puglia’s trulli or Chefchaouen’s all-blue buildings, Berat’s unforgettable white Ottoman houses are totally unique in their collective existence and visual impact. The simple, traditional rooms inside also provide a super-affordable way to stay here, as many are guest-houses or independently-run hotels, such as Hotel Vila Aleksandar or Hotel Mangelemi , both around £35 per night. Head up the steep cobblestoned streets to see the 13th Century Berat Castle (entry is free) and take in the ‘town of a thousand windows’ from the top.

Brașov, Transylvania, Romania

A cheaper alternative to Bucharest (which is still, by European standards, incredibly good value), Brașov is surrounded by the scenic Carpathian Mountains. A cable car up to the top of Mount Tampa costs just 20 lei (£3.55) for aerial views of the brick-red rooftops, whilst local tour operator Walkabout provide a free walking tour every morning at 10.30am, setting off from the fountain in Piata Sfatului. Pick up local delicacy kürtőskalács (a spit-roasted, sugar-covered ‘chimney cake’) to maintain your energy levels from the stall nearby.

Sofia, Bulgaria

Not only did Bulgaria take the lead (side by side with Turkey ) as cheapest all-round destination in Europe in the Post Office’s Holiday Money Report 2022, but the country is also home to some of the world’s cheapest ski resorts. Sofia, the capital, is just over 10km away from the Vitosha Mountains which provide impressive winter conditions for snow bunnies and cost a fraction of the price of resorts in France or Italy . Wine and Bulgarian beers are notoriously cheap, and downtown Sofia is known for its high-energy party atmosphere. Entry to clubs is seldom more than €10, with live DJ sets and late-night events at Maze or Culture Beat (which also has a great summer terrace for cocktails).

Izmir, Turkey

Despite the British pound tanking in recent weeks, it has remained strong against the Turkish lira (at time of writing, £1 would buy you ₺21), so travellers to Turkey can get great value for money. On Turkey’s Aegean coast, Izmir has resisted the price hikes of Istanbul and tourist traps of Ankara whilst preserving its 8,500-year-old Kemeraltı bazaar and ancient Roman agora. The historic sites and architectural relics coexist with cosmopolitan culture and traditional cuisine – try pide on the pier or baked potatoes with a choice of toppings at Atıştır Café. An hour out of town is Ephesus, an ancient city built by the Greeks and well worth a detour.

Tbilisi, Georgia

Whilst the transcontinental city of Tbilisi is the most expensive place to live in Georgia, by European standards it’s exceptionally affordable for holidaymakers. A cascade of new hotels have opened in the last few years, such as the lovely Guest House Lile with double rooms from £21 per night (if you book through booking.com , you can even get a free transfer from the airport). Foodies should book a table at Barbarestan, a family-run restaurant with authentic recipes and local ingredients, where you can eat for around £40 each – not bad for somewhere given a nod by the crew behind the World’s 50 Best Restaurants .

15 Cheapest Places to Visit in Europe in 2024

Home | Travel | Europe | 15 Cheapest Places to Visit in Europe in 2024

If you are looking for the cheapest places to visit in Europe , you’ll be pleased to know that you have numerous options. The best thing about traveling through Europe is the diversity of countries to choose from. Plus, many European cities can be thoroughly enjoyed in just three or four days without straining your budget.

However, regardless of what country you choose for your next vacation, I strongly recommend getting good travel insurance for Europe . I especially like the Heymondo insurance plans , and you can even get a HeyMondo discount when booking through this link .

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The good news is that their plans are not very expensive and offer you essential coverage in case of theft or trip cancellations. If you want to save money, use one of our travel discounts or one of these tips to travel cheaply . But remember that traveling without insurance is a risk you don’t want to take.

So, without further ado, let’s dive into the cheapest countries to travel to in Europe :

1. Portugal, one of the cheapest countries to visit in Europe

Portugal is one of the cheapest countries to fly to in Europe where you’ll find tons of affordable hotels and fine restaurants to enjoy delicious meals without breaking the bank.

More specifically, Lisbon is one of the cheapest places to travel in Europe . I’ve had the pleasure of visiting Lisbon three times. While I once stayed there an entire week, I can assure you that even a three- or four-day trip is enough to enjoy its beauty. In addition, you can take this free tour that will allow you to discover some of the best things to do in Lisbon with a guide who will explain interesting information about each attraction. You can also get the Lisbon Card at an affordable price which gives you access to 30 attractions in Lisbon and unlimited use of public transportation.

I recommend that you do not confine your exploration to the city center; the Belém Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery of Belém , both declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites, are two places that you cannot miss. In fact, you can take this free tour of Belém to get to know them in depth along with other attractions, or this tour , which includes a boat ride for breathtaking views of the 25 de Abril bridge and the Christ the King statue . To find out about the location of these tourist attractions, you can consult our Lisbon tourist maps .

If you are going to spend several days in the city, you can also opt for this excursion to Sintra , where you’ll find the enchanting Pena National Palace , one of Portugal’s most beautiful and famous palaces.

Portugal is undoubtedly one of the cheapest places to stay in Europe since there are also many well-located hotels in Lisbon with great amenities and reasonable prices. While Lisbon is both budget-friendly and beautiful, if you’re seeking even more cost-effective options, you can head to Porto , Portugal’s second-largest city, or visit Madeira , where you can enjoy an affordable vacation on dreamy beaches.

• Beautiful and cheap cities to visit : Lisbon, Porto, and Madeira Island
• Estimated accommodation price: €35/night in Lisbon Destination , Lisbon; €60/night in OportoHouse , Porto; €50/night in Hotel Sirius , Funchal, Madeira.
• Daily spending on meals from: €25/day per person

2. Croatia, one of the cheapest countries to fly into in Europe

Croatia is one of the cheapest countries to fly into in Europe , and it promises to captivate you with its unique charm more than any other European destination. With more than 3,700 miles of captivating coastline featuring beautiful beaches and turquoise-blue waters, towns steeped in tradition, and a delectable gastronomic scene, Croatia has it all.

While the capital city, Zagreb , may not be coastal, it’s one of the most stunning cities in the country, and you simply can’t afford to miss it. Here, you’ll discover the exquisite Church of Saint Mark and the Zagreb Cathedral , two architectural wonders. Don’t forget to explore Kaptol and Gradec , two areas that form the medieval heart of the city. I recommend taking this free tour for an introduction, as it will allow you to learn about its historical and cultural significance. And make sure to take this food tour and try some Croatian delicacies. I promise you won’t be disappointed.

While you’re in Zagreb, take the opportunity to explore one of Croatia’s most stunning natural landscapes: the Plitvice Lakes . You can easily book this excursion to get there.

Many travelers also choose the lake excursion from Split , which is one of the most picturesque cities on the Dalmatian coast. In Split, you’ll find sites with significant historical importance, such as Diocletian’s Palace , a UNESCO World Heritage Site; the Temple of Jupiter ; and the Mausoleum of Diocletian , which was transformed into the Cathedral of San Diomo , among other treasures. Here, too, you can book this free tour to explore its attractions.

If you are looking for a memorable beach experience, you can go to Dubrovnik , a city known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic” and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This beautiful city is surrounded by a large wall that dates back to the 10 th century, although some sections were restored in the 17 th century. What’s fascinating is that you can enter the city through a northern gateway, and it feels like stepping back in time. You can take this free tour to visit the attractions of the city, such as the churches of San Salvador and San Blas , the Franciscan Monastery , and the Cathedral of the Assumption .

And don’t forget that Dubrovnik was transformed into King’s Landing in Game of Thrones , so if you’re a fan, you can even take a Game of Thrones tour to explore the capital of the Seven Kingdoms.

Despite ranking among the least expensive places to visit in Europe , Zagreb, Split, and Dubrovnik are indeed three cities that offer many attractions.

• Beautiful and cheap cities to visit: Zagreb, Split, and Dubrovnik
• Estimated accommodation price: €60/night in FLOK Tkalciceva , Zagreb; €30/night in Backpackers Fairytale Hostel , Split; and €50/night in Hotel Lero , Dubrovnik
• Daily spending on meals from: €35/day per person

3. Albania, one of the cheapest flight destinations in Europe with a rich history

Albania is also one of the cheapest countries in Europe to travel to in summer and the perfect holiday destination due to its stunning landscapes, stunning beaches, majestic mountains, and great architectural and cultural heritage.

Berat , despite not being the capital (that’s Tirana ), is one of Albania’s most captivating cities and a top tourist destination. Its historic center with over 2,000 years of history is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This means you’ll encounter numerous monuments, buildings, and places with exceptional historical significance.

Berat is known as the “City of a Thousand Windows” because it’s built on a hillside, allowing you to view houses at varying heights, each adorned with windows that seem to gaze out onto the world.

The city comprises three historic neighborhoods: the Christian Gorica neighborhood, the Muslim Mangalem neighborhood, and the Kajala neighborhood, built on the highest point of the hill. I recommend exploring all three neighborhoods, as each has its unique attractions. You can choose to do it on your own or join this free tour . And if you have some extra time, consider a visit to the Osum Canyon , a natural wonder that’s truly worth exploring. You can explore it solo or book this guided excursion .

If you are looking for more beach tourism, the Albanian Riviera , with its exquisite Ionian Sea beaches, is the best option. My recommendation is to start your journey in Berat and then spend a few days enjoying this coastal paradise, particularly in Sarandë . From Sarandë, you can take an excursion to the Butrint Archaeological Park , often referred to as the “Pompeii of Albania.”

Lastly, don’t miss the opportunity to visit Tirana , Albania’s capital. It’s a city with a lot of history and significant Communist influence. To gain deeper insights into the city, consider taking this free tour . Alternatively, you can join this “ Communism tour ” if you’re interested in uncovering its unique historical narrative.

Albania, in general, is one of the cheapest destinations in Europe , offering an incredible blend of natural beauty and a rich historical legacy. If you have the chance, don’t hesitate to explore this unique gem.

• Beautiful and cheap cities to visit: Berat, Sarandë and Tirana
• Estimated accommodation price: €35/night in White City Hotel , Berat; €30/night in Hotel Chicago , Saranda; and €30/night in Studio Apartments 365 , Tirana.

4. Montenegro, one of the cheapest places to visit in Europe with dreamy landscapes

Montenegro is among the cheapest places to fly to in Europe . Although it’s a relatively undiscovered gem, it has been gaining popularity among travelers in recent years, especially those who love beach and mountain experiences. Despite being one of Europe’s smallest countries, its towns have a lot of history and tradition.

Kotor , one of Montenegro’s most enchanting towns, is well worth a visit, especially due to its location, nestled between the sea and majestic mountains.

The town is home to St. John’s Castle , a place of significant historical value that also offers breathtaking panoramic views of Kotor. I also recommend walking through the town center, where you’ll find the Plaza de Armas , the Orthodox Church of Saint Luke , and the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon . If you have spare time, consider taking this cruise to explore the Bay of Kotor , declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as the island of Our Lady of the Rocks , the Blue Cave , and the underwater tunnels of the former Yugoslavia.

Budva is another coastal city well worth a visit and one of the cheapest places to travel in Europe located within Montenegro. While it might not be as famous as Kotor, it has a rich history as one of the oldest cities in the Mediterranean. In the Old City, you can still find the fortified walls. You’ll also discover beautiful churches such as the Church of San Juan Bautista , the Church of Santa María de Punta , and the Church of Santísima Trinidad . On the other hand, in the New Town, you’ll find modern amenities, including hotels, restaurants, shops, and a vibrant atmosphere.

• Beautiful and cheap cities to visit: Kotor and Budva
• Estimated accommodation price: €60/night in Hotel Rendez Vous , Kotor; and €30/night in Villa Rihter , Budva.
• Daily spending on meals from: €20/day per person

5. Bulgaria, one of the cheapest places to go in Europe with a diverse natural landscape

Bulgaria is another one of the cheapest destinations in Europe and is home to one of the most beautiful cities on the continent – Sofia .

Sofia is the capital of Bulgaria and its most populous city. This city is relatively small, which makes it easy to explore on foot. Additionally, if your goal as a traveler is to visit the main attractions, you’ll have an easy job because they are located close to each other.

You can start by taking this free tour that will allow you to have a first contact with the city and learn about its fascinating history. Furthermore, this tour will allow you to see the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral , which is one of the most exquisite cathedrals and one of the largest Orthodox temples in the world.

In this city, you will find other important churches and temples as well, such as the Sveta-Nedelya Cathedral , the Church of St. Nicholas , also known as the Russian Church, and the Banya Bashi Mosque . For a deeper dive into history and architecture, I highly recommend this excursion to the Rila Monastery and Boyana Church , two essential monuments near Sofia.

I also recommend walking along Vitosha Boulevard , where you will find some of the city’s finest restaurants, shops, cafes, and plenty of entertainment options.

The best thing about Sofia, in addition to being one of the cheapest cities in Europe , is that you can easily explore the city in just two or three days, making it an excellent choice for a quick getaway, whether you’re traveling as a couple or with friends. So, if you are looking for cheap places to travel , Sofia is undoubtedly a very good option.

• Beautiful and cheap cities to visit: Sofia
• Estimated accommodation price: €40/night in Favorit Hotel , Sofia

6. Slovakia, and one of the cheapest cities in Europe: Bratislava

If you are looking for the cheapest places to fly into Europe , a very good option could be Bratislava , in Slovakia . This charming city is small enough to explore in just a couple of days, making it a perfect choice for a weekend escape. Many travelers even seize the opportunity to visit Bratislava while journeying through Vienna, Budapest, or Prague.

One of the places you should visit is the Bratislavský Hrad or Bratislava Castle . You won’t have any trouble finding it, as it sits on top of a hill and can be seen from practically anywhere in the city. However, if you want to know it in depth, I recommend this guided tour , which also includes a visit to the Bratislava Cathedral .

I also recommend exploring the Blue Church , which is characterized by its striking blue exterior. Other interesting sites are St. Martin’s Cathedral , St. Michael’s Gate , Slovak National Uprising Square , and Safarik Square . Additionally, I encourage you to take leisurely walks and lose yourself in the city’s streets while searching for the statues of Bratislava . Over the years, some may have vanished, but a few still remain, like Čumil, commonly known as the “working man,” the Napoleonic Soldier, or the Witch.

To get to know the city in more depth, you can take this free walking tour , which will allow you to acquaint yourself with one of the most charming and cheapest destinations in Europe .

• Beautiful and cheap cities to visit: Bratislava
• Estimated accommodation price: €40/night in Safestay Bratislava Presidential Palace , Bratislava
• Daily spending on meals from: €30/day per person

7. Hungary, a beautiful, cheap place to go in Europe

Hungary is not only a beautiful country, but also one of the cheapest destinations in Europe . I recommend you visit Budapest , the capital of Hungary, and one of the most beautiful cities on the continent.

You can start your trip through Budapest by taking this free tour , which will allow you to discover some of the city’s attractions along with some interesting historical facts. If you decide to explore the city on your own, you should visit the Budapest Parliament . You can get tickets on-site or through their official website. However, for a skip-the-line experience with the guidance of a local expert, consider booking this tour .

I also recommend visiting Liberty Square , home to a monument dedicated to the victims of World War II. Other must-visit attractions are St. Stephen’s Basilica , which has become one of the most important religious buildings in the country; the Budapest Opera , a Neo-Renaissance gem; and Buda Castle , an ideal spot for enjoying the sunset.

For couples looking for a romantic experience, I definitely recommend a boat ride on the Danube at dusk. You can book this romantic excursion through this link , which will take you past the city’s most iconic bridges, including the famous Chain Bridge .

Budapest is undoubtedly one of the cheapest cities in Europe for a holiday . So, even if you’re on a tight budget, you can have a memorable experience.

• Beautiful and cheap cities to visit: Budapest
• Estimated accommodation price: €45/night in Benczur Hotel , Budapest

8. Poland, one of the most historical and cheapest places to travel in Europe

Poland is a captivating country, brimming with historical significance and renowned as one of Europe’s most stunning destinations. What makes it even more interesting is that it is one of the cheapest places to go in Europe .

When visiting Poland, you can’t miss Warsaw , the country’s vibrant capital. A noteworthy historical fact: Warsaw was one of the cities most ravaged during World War II. Fortunately, it was able to rise from the ashes and regain its former glory as a lively and splendid city.

You can start your visit to the city by taking this free tour which will introduce you to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, and provide insights into the significant historical events that occurred here. Afterward, I recommend visiting the Old City , which is the oldest neighborhood in the city. This area too, had to be reconstructed after being left in ruins during the Warsaw Uprising, just like the Royal Castle .

You can also visit the Palace of Culture and Science , a somewhat controversial building that was constructed on Stalin’s orders. It is currently one of the tallest buildings in Poland, making it one of the best viewpoints in Warsaw. You can take this guided tour to learn more about this building, which also includes access to the POLIN Museum . I also recommend that you visit the Royal Łazienki Park , which is home to the Lazienki Palace, another significant building in the city. You can take this walking tour that includes a tour of the city and the park.

Krakow is another cheap place to go in Europe . Here you can take a free tour to see the city’s top tourist attractions. If you decide to travel to Krakow, I recommend visiting Market Square , which is one of the most popular and important places in the city. In addition, it is surrounded by iconic landmarks, such as the Basilica of Santa María , Cloth Hall , the Church of St. Adalbert , and the Tower of the Old Town Hall .

Other important places you should visit are the Krakow Cathedral and Wawel Hill , both included in this guided tour . I assure you that these sites will captivate you with their beauty and rich historical narratives.

And if you are traveling as a couple and want to enjoy a romantic moment, you can take a boat ride at sunset . As the last rays of the sun illuminate the city, you’ll be treated to a breathtaking display of colors.

From both cities, you can take an excursion to Auschwitz-Birkenau , an experience I highly recommend to gain insight into a significant period in Poland’s history.

• Beautiful and cheap cities to visit: Warsaw and Krakow
• Estimated accommodation price: €15/night in Chillout Hostel , Warsaw; €15/night in Dream Hostel & Apartments , Krakow
• Daily spending on meals from: €15/day per person

9. Romania, a cheap place to visit in Europe with exciting attractions

Romania is a country filled with pleasant surprises, and if you’re planning a trip here, don’t miss Bucharest , the capital of the country, and one of the cheapest cities in Europe .

Bucharest is a city with a lot of charm that transports you to past centuries through its architectural treasures and castles. You can start your trip by taking a free tour in which an expert guide will introduce you to the city. Afterward, I recommend taking your time to explore and discover the city’s main attractions. One of them is the Patriarchal Cathedral of Bucharest which is surrounded by chapels and the patriarchal palace, forming a religious complex. Don’t forget to wander through the Old Town , the city’s historic center, where you’ll encounter the Stavropoleos Monastery .

Additional sites well worth your visit include Unirii Square in the heart of the city; Revolution Square , with its incredible historical significance; the Athenaeum , and the Arc de Triomphe . Furthermore, if you want to delve into a chapter of the country’s history you can take a tour of Communist Bucharest , a period that left a lasting mark on the city.

If you have time, I also recommend visiting the castles of Bran and Peles to enjoy the exceptional landscapes of Transylvania and Wallachia. Given that Bucharest is among the cheapest places to travel to in Europe , you can consider setting aside some of your budget for this excursion.

• Beautiful and cheap cities to visit: Bucharest
• Estimated accommodation price: €25/night in Casa Romana , Bucharest

10. Latvia, one of the cheapest places to visit in Europe for a holiday

Latvia is another very good option if you are looking for cheap places to travel to in Europe , whether it’s with friends, family, or as a couple. In this case, I recommend visiting Riga , the captivating capital of Latvia and one of the country’s most beautiful cities.

A must-see in Riga is the House of the Blackheads , which was built in the early 14 th century. During World War II, however, the building was destroyed, so it had to be rebuilt at the beginning of the 21 st century. To visit, you’ll need a ticket, which you can get in advance through this link . You can also take the opportunity to visit the Cathedral of St. James of Riga , just a short stroll away.

Other places you should visit are Plaza Livu , a lively and colorful hub; and the House of Cats , which is located next to the square and is easily recognizable by its yellow façade and the black cats that crown the building. I also recommend wandering through Riga’s streets, many of which are lined with charming pastel-colored houses.

I also recommend setting aside an evening to visit the 26 th floor of the Radisson Blue Latvija hotel , where you’ll find a public bar offering stunning city views, including the Orthodox Nativity of Christ Cathedral .

Depending on your schedule, you can book this free tour to explore Riga’s essential landmarks. I suggest exploring the city on your own and allocating time for an excursion to the Kemeri and Jürmala National Park , especially if you’re a nature enthusiast who likes outdoor activities. Latvia is undeniably one of those cheap countries to travel to in Europe where you can enjoy unforgettable experiences.

• Beautiful and cheap cities to visit : Riga
• Estimated accommodation price : €25/night at ApartHotel Riga , in Riga
• Daily spending on meals from : €30/day per person

11. Georgia, one of the cheapest countries in Europe with a traditional culture

Georgia is one of the cheapest flight destinations in Europe and is home to one of the most beautiful cities. Furthermore, the capital of Tbilisi ranks among the cheapest cities in Europe .

Tbilisi can be divided into two distinct parts: the older, more traditional area linked to the famed Silk Road, and the modern section bearing a significant Russian influence. If you want to explore the city with a guide, you can take this tour which covers essential sites such as the Narikala Fortress , the Metekhi , Sioni , and Anchiskhati churches, and the Legvtakhevi Waterfall , among other attractions. However, if you want to focus exclusively on the older part of town, I recommend taking this guided walking tour .

Depending on the duration of your stay, you can consider this excursion that departs from Tbilisi and takes you to small yet captivating Georgian towns, such as the ancient Mtskheta , the cave city of Uplistsikhe, and the historic Gori .

Another city you can visit in Georgia is Kutaisi . This is one of the oldest cities in the country, and although it is still recovering from the conflict with Russia in 2008, it offers a wealth of attractions. I encourage you to visit the enchanting historic center, shop for local products at the Green Bazaar , and explore the Bagrati Cathedral . And if you like outdoor activities and nature, you should definitely visit the Prometheus Cave and the Martvili Canyons . I assure you that Kutaisi is one of the best cheap places to travel to in Europe and will leave you amazed by its rich history and breathtaking natural wonders.

• Beautiful and cheap cities to visit : Tbilisi and Kutaisi
• Estimated accommodation price : €14/night in Alex’s Cosy Guesthouse , Tbilisi; and €15/night in Guest House Lviv , Kutaisi
• Daily spending on meals from : €15/day per person

12. Bosnia and Herzegovina, one of the cheapest places in Europe to travel

Bosnia and Herzegovina may not be at the top of many travelers’ lists, but it’s a hidden gem and one of the cheapest destinations in Europe . So, if you are looking for a place to travel on a tight budget, this country is an excellent choice, especially the charming city of Sarajevo .

Sarajevo can be explored in about three days, though I recommend extending your stay to visit the surrounding areas, including the enchanting city of Mostar , which appears to be straight out of a fairy tale.

You can start your visit by taking this free tour , which introduces you to the most important places in the capital of Bosnia. Alternatively, explore the old town on your own, where you’ll find the magnificent Sarajevo City Hall and the bustling Turkish Quarter, Bascarsija , full of shops, restaurants, and cafes.

In addition to these landmarks, make sure to visit the Gazi Husrev-Beg Mosque , the Cathedral of the Heart of Jesus , and the Synagogue , all of which hold significant architectural and historical importance. I also recommend walking along Ferhadija Street , a pedestrian street that is the main artery of the city leading to the Eternal Flame , a monument with a perpetual flame lit in memory of World War II victims in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Another very interesting place to visit is the Sarajevo Tunnel , especially if you want to learn about the city’s wartime history. To delve even further into the impact of these events on the city and the nation, you can join this tour .

I have to admit that Bosnia and Herzegovina is one of those nice, cheap places in Europe that I have yet to visit. However, it’s one of Europe’s most affordable and charming destinations that still preserves its authenticity and essence, so it’s on our list!

• Beautiful and cheap cities to visit : Sarajevo
• Estimated accommodation price : €20/night at Pansion Sebilj , Sarajevo

13. Slovenia, another cheap flight destination in Europe

Slovenia is one of those countries that you should visit at least once in your life, as it offers many beautiful cities and dreamlike natural landscapes. It is undoubtedly one of the best cheap places to travel in Europe that you cannot miss.

Ljubljana , the capital of Slovenia, is a unique and charming city, not only because of the mountains that surround it but also because of its lush urban environment. Plus, you can fully explore the whole city in about three days, making it an ideal cheap holiday destination in Europe .

I recommend you visit Ljubljana Castle , located on a hill over 1,100 ft high. You can reach it by foot or take the glass funicular for a scenic ride. Don’t forget to stroll across the iconic Dragon Bridge , known for its four dragon statues.

You should also explore Metelkova , a former military barracks transformed into a vibrant hipster hub adorned with street art, clubs, and a youthful atmosphere. Additionally, you can visit Tivoli Park , the city’s largest park that includes a beautiful greenhouse, open-air library, Tivoli Castle, Leopoldsruhe Mansion, and various sports facilities. And if you’re looking for authentic Slovenian products, make a stop at Ljubljana’s Central Market .

Depending on the duration of your stay, I recommend going to the Predjama Castle and the Postojna Cave . The castle is one of the most emblematic and cherished landmarks in Slovenia. In Postojna Cave, you’ll find not only unique geological formations but also the elusive olm, or “human fish.” These excursions are undoubtedly worthwhile, as they represent significant places in the country, so I recommend booking them in advance through this link . Alternatively, you’ll love visiting the stunning Lake Bled .

• Beautiful and cheap cities to visit : Ljubljana
• Estimated accommodation price : €25/night in Only 5 beds GreenSLO , Ljubljana
• Daily spending on meals from : €25/day per person

14. Czech Republic, one of the cheapest places to go in Europe for a romantic getaway

Czech Republic can also be a good option if you are looking for cheap countries to travel to in Europe . In addition, its picturesque capital, Prague , is a city renowned for its beauty and tourist attractions.

You can start your trip by taking this free tour , which is an excellent way to get a first impression of the city and explore some of its most fascinating sites. But don’t miss out on discovering some of the city’s landmarks on your own, such as Prague Castle , where you’ll find the Saint Vitus Cathedral, Royal Palace, Saint George’s Basilica, and Golden Lane.

I also recommend visiting the Old Town Square , which is surrounded by elegant buildings and some important structures, such as the Church of Our Lady of Týn , the Goltz-Kinskych Palace , the House of the Stone Bell , the Church of St. Nicholas, and the Town Hall , which is considered one of the most beautiful buildings in the city.

Considering all the captivating places to explore, you can save on admission fees by investing in the Prague Card , which will give you access to most of these attractions, including Prague Castle , the five synagogues , the Jewish Cemetery , and the Lobkowicz Palace .

Depending on the time you are going to spend in Prague, you can reserve a day to go on an excursion and visit the Terezín concentration camp . However, if you’d prefer to avoid such emotionally intense places, consider a visit to Karlovy Vary , a world-class city known for its healing hot springs. In fact, Karlovy Vary ranks among the cheapest places to travel in Europe , so you can easily split your trip between Prague and this charming city.

• Beautiful and cheap cities to visit : Prague and Karlovy Vary
• Estimated accommodation price : €30/night at A&O Prague Rhea , Prague; and €35/night at Sport Hotel Gejzirpark , Karlovy Vary
• Daily spending on meals from : €20/day per person

15. Armenia, another cheap flight destination in Europe

Armenia is another hidden gem within Europe that is often overlooked by travelers. Nevertheless, it is one of the cheapest destinations in Europe for a holiday , especially its beautiful capital, Yerevan .

Yerevan is a charming city that can be easily explored in about two or three days. You can take this free tour to visit the main attractions of the city and learn some interesting information about them. After the tour, take time to visit Republic Square and appreciate the surrounding buildings, which include the Government Palace, various ministries, the National Gallery, and the History Museum.

While in Yerevan, you should also explore the Yerevan Opera , the intriguing Cascade Complex , the Kasfejian Museum , and Vernissage , known as the most famous flea market in the city. And make sure to include a visit to the Tsitsernakaberd , which is the Monument to the Victims of the Armenian Genocide.

Yerevan is a small city, so you can get to know it in just a few days. If you have spare time, you can take this day trip to Echmiadzin , Khor Virap , and Zvartnots which are some of the country’s most important and iconic historical sites.

Armenia is an excellent choice if you’re looking for cheap places to stay in Europe , as it remains relatively unexplored by tourists, ensuring a more peaceful and serene experience.

• Beautiful and cheap cities to visit : Yerevan
• Estimated accommodation price : €20/night at Bonvenon capsule Hostel , Yerevan

Now that you know all the cheapest places to visit in Europe , I hope that money will no longer stop you from exploring the world. Traveling doesn’t always mean going far from home; you can discover beautiful cities filled with charm and history near you. Furthermore, if you decide to rent a cheap car , you can visit multiple cities within the same country or even cross borders on a single journey to make the most out of your trip.

Keep in mind that while lots of European countries use the euro, there are other places that use different currencies, specifically Bulgaria, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, and Romania. To ensure you’re getting the most value for your money, I recommend using one of the best travel credit cards . You should also remember that SIM cards for Europe do not cover roaming in Albania, Montenegro, Poland, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, and Armenia. So, if you need internet while traveling in these countries, I recommend taking a look at services like Holafly .

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While I’ve provided recommendations for accommodation in each of the mentioned countries, if you’re looking for something different, check out our guide on how to find cheap hotels . Additionally, I suggest reading our guide on how to find cheap flights . In general, I recommend avoiding high season, weekends, or specific peak dates when prices tend to be higher.

I hope this guide has helped you find cheap places in Europe to travel to . If you have any questions, want to share your experiences in any of these countries, or wish to suggest other affordable destinations you’ve discovered, please feel free to leave a comment below.

Enjoy your trip to Europe!

Ascen Aynat

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Budget Tours & Trips to Europe

Explore a varied offer of budget Europe adventures that will take you through some of the most renowned destinations such as Rome and Paris. Each affordable tour will provide you with memorable experiences for some of the lowest prices on the market. Explore the best  budget trips  and budget tour operators around the world with TourRadar!

250+ Budget Europe tour packages with 15,557 reviews

• Northern Lights
• Christmas & New Year

5 Day - Snaefellsnes, South Coast and Northern Lights

Fantastic with awesome guides.

• Coach / Bus

European Delight

So honestly when we were assigned to this company through Tour Radar and looked at the reviews we were a little worried. I tried to hope for the best and assume that people who DO NOT have great experiences write more reviews. I was absolutely correct. We had AMAZING tour guides. Knowledgeable, kind, helpful. I think this company does an amazing job of moving people from one destination to another especially when it seems that itineraries overlap offering everyone the trip they desire. The hotels far outweighed our expectations. Of course there were small hiccups with time losses and changes in plans for the day but for the price and to get a brief view of Europe I would call it an outstanding tour.

• In-depth Cultural

Rome to Berlin: Piazzas, Prague & the Past

Great diversity of countries and cities but WAY too fast paced. One night in Slovenia and Poland was ridiculous and with travel time some days we spent less than 15 hours in the city. The guide was a but inexperienced so we didn't have a good description of some of the cities. Great way to make friends and see cities! Would recommend going end of August or later as it was still very hot going through the cities!!

Zagreb to Athens: Adriatic & Ancient Capitals

A great fast-paced tour that was well led by our wonderful guide Ivan!

Balkan Discovery (4 Star Hotels)

Amazing tour guide, bus driver and all the guests. Would have loved to see more of Bosnia

• €150 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Enchanted Landscapes

Overall a good tour experience for people travelling into Europe for the first time. It provides most of the transportation and uses a good schedule to see the highlights of many places.

• River Cruise

Romantic Rhine (Southbound) 2024

The best! We were never on a river cruise and this was a wonderful first experience! the ship the staff the food the wines were excellent. everything was beyond expectations. The pre & post cruise accommodations again exellemt! A trip of a lifetime for us! Thanks Tour Raider for an excellent job, and Avalon!

Britain and Ireland Delight (Summer, 8 Days)

Motels not too good...no air conditioning, no fridges Bus had problems with air con too..changed buses , but not as comfortable

Highlights of Scandinavia (12 Days)

Had a great experience using your services will use you again thanks.

Rome to London Quest (Summer, 10 Days)

The contiki service was outstanding from Greg as our tour guide, he was extremely welcoming and made all people on trip feel comfortable. He has amazing people skills which enabled the group to have a really really good time. He has an unbelievable knowledge of the places that we visited throughout the journey and was impressive to watch him relay the information to a group of people who come from all different walks of life

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Explore the Balkans

Great trip to whet the appetite to see more of this amazing region!

Croatia Sailing Adventure

Ivan is an absolute gem, he made us feel safe and comfortable and is perfect for his job, he is so much fun to be around and our group loves and appreciates him and all of the staffs efforts to make this trip so memorable! Thankyou Ivan for being so awesome and making this trip amazing!

Highlights of Ireland & Scotland

Wonderful! First time traveling outside of the US alone. It was a beautiful tour! Henry was amazing! He was full of knowledge and fun facts. The itinerary was awesome and well organized. So happy I went! I made life long friends sling the way! Recommend and will be using this tour again soon! Just book it! You’ll love it!

• Sightseeing

The Best of The Baltics + Helsinki in 10 days (Guaranteed departure)

Unfortunately, the group was all 60+ years old couples, mostly Americans, 4 Australians and 2 Germans. I never felt more alone in a group like in this trip. Group members were more than punctual they are always 20 minutes ahead of time and complaining about my "tardiness" although I showed up on appointed time. One of the American ladies commented that it was a cultural thing. I told her no it's an age thing because my parents do like them. We had two tour leaders the one who accompanied us from Vilnius to Tallinn (Lamija) was very knowledgible with great personality. The one who accompanied us from Tallinn to Helsinki (Nathalia) was the exact opposite. Not only did she not lack all the guiding skills but She was also impolite to me and she claimed that she was joking.

5 Day Skye & Highland Fling

I just finished my 5 day trip with Macbackpackers and I wish it wasn’t over! Our tour guide Neil kept me entertained the whole entire trip with his humorous jokes and interesting stories about Scotland. We got to see so many things in the span of 5 days, it was the perfect trip to introduce me to this beautiful place. Will 100% recommend Macbackpackers to everyone!

What people love about Budget Tours in Europe

Overall the guides and drivers were excellent - in their knowledge, driving safety, preparing the group for activities that were next on the list. The only down time during the day was some of the distances between stops. But not an issue as we were well aware of that before hand. A good value for the cost!!

Great diversity of countries and cities but WAY too fast paced. One night in Slovenia and Poland was ridiculous and with travel time some days we spent less than 15 hours in the city. The guide was a but inexperienced so we didn't have a good description of some of the cities. Great way to make friends and see cities! Would recommend going end of August or later as it was still very hot going through the cities!!

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20 of the best budget beach holidays in Europe

From camping by the Black Sea to a cool Portuguese surf house, these great places to stay across Europe start at just £50 a week in summer

eaAll prices are the cheapest available (at the time of going to press) for July/August and calculated on maximum occupancy

Under £100 a week

Southern Montenegro MCM Camping is on a long, blue-flag beach in southern Montenegro with pitches under the pines for tents, campervans and caravans. There are also bungalows with garden or sea views and facilities include an outdoor pool, children’s playground and barbecue areas. There is a beach club vibe, with swing seats, cabana-style loungers and a restaurant on the sands that’s open until midnight every night and serves traditional Montenegrin dishes, plus seafood, pizza and cocktails. The campsite is four miles from pretty Ulcinj, which has several beaches and a walled old town, near the Albanian border. From £65pp for seven nights camping

Black Sea, Bulgaria

Camping Krapec is backed by woodland and four miles of wide sandy beach which is part of a nature reserve on Bulgaria’s northernmost Black Sea coast, north of the resort town of Varna, near the border with Romania. The site has 300 shady tent pitches beneath the trees, 80 places for campervans and caravans, and five types of bungalow (120 in total). Bar Sunrise is a party spot in the summer, with live music, an arts festival and cinema screenings. It serves fish specialities, homegrown fruit and veg, plus cold beers and homemade brandy. From £48pp for seven nights camping

Aran Islands, Ireland

Three camping fields overlook white-sand Frenchman’s Beach on Inis Mór, the biggest of the three Aran Islands in Galway Bay. Aran Islands Camping and Glamping also has 24 glamping pods, based on ancient beehive-shaped stone huts that used to be occupied by religious recluses and are still scattered over the island. Buildings are made from sustainable materials – the reception block is made from stones that washed up on the beach during winter storms – and hot water and lighting is solar-powered. The site is a short walk from the island’s main town, Kilronan, which has shops, bars, restaurants and the ferry port. From £93pp for seven nights camping

Northern Greece

Tent pitches are set among olive, eucalyptus and pine trees next to two private white-sand beaches on family-owned land on the Sithonia peninsula in Halkidiki. Areti Camping & Bungalows also has 19 wooden cottages and eight stone bungalows to rent. Campers can swim to three small Aegean islands 300 metres from land; other activities include watersports, tennis, volleyball and hiking. The closest town is Neos Marmaras, seven miles away and it’s a day trip to the Unesco-listed rock formations and monasteries of Meteora. From €63pp for seven nights camping

Under £250 a week

Slovenia may only have 30 miles of coastline but Camping Adria makes the most of it, with six pitches right on the beach and many more close to it. There are 430 pitches in total, spread over 17 acres, some further back in the pine and cedar trees. There is an Olympic-size salt-water pool by the sea, a watersports centre, a sports area with beach volleyball, and a gym and spa. Restaurants and bars include a taverna with sea views and a beach cafe. The campsite is part of the Adria Ankaran resort, which includes a hotel in a former Benedictine monastery. The resort is 10 minutes from the medieval port town of Koper, halfway between Trieste in Italy and Piran in Slovenia. From £197pp for seven nights

Åboland, Finland

Brännskär, an island and old fishing homestead in Finland’s Åboland archipelago, is a now a nature lover’s adventure playground called Living Archipelago . There are beaches and a nature trail, plus paddleboards, kayaks, boats and fishing hire. Log cabins are available to rent, and from 1 June four furnished tents are being added, sleeping up to four each, with sea views. There are compost toilets, plus showers, barbecues and a swimming beach 300 metres away. Breakfast can be served at the tent or in the cafe or restaurant. A beachside wood-fired sauna, campfire and regular live music complete the experience. From £226pp for seven nights glamping

Costa Brava, Spain

Cala Llevado is a wooded, rocky campsite overlooking a large bay, reached by steep paths and steps. There is access to four beaches: a big sandy one, a pebbly one that is good for kayaking, one with a bar, and a rocky cove for nudists. The site also has a large pool with sea views and paddling pool. Pitches (tents, camper vans and caravans) are in the pine and cork oak forest, with those closest to the sea reserved for tents. There are also mobile homes and glamping pods, plus a bar-restaurant, shop and kids’ club. The site is two miles from Tossa de Mar on the Costa Brava, between Barcelona and the French border. From €122.50pp for seven nights camping

Near Perpignan, France

A new waterfront aparthotel opens on 28 April in Saint-Cyprien, a village near the Mediterranean town of Perpignan. Les Bulles de Mer has bright one- to three-bedroom apartments with terraces, plus beach access, an outdoor pool with a bar and a restaurant serving food from the local market. Guests can hire paddleboards and bikes, do daily yoga and pilates, and destress in flotation tanks in the spa. A free shuttle runs from the beach to the centre of the village, which has Cayrou architecture, a Romanesque church, an excellent gallery (based on the painter François Desnoyer’s art collection) and Catalan festivals. From €240pp for seven nights

Under £350 a week

Istria, Croatia

Croatia’s “first full glamping site”, Arena One 99 is in a pine forest in Pomer on the southern tip of the Istrian peninsula, near Medulin and Pula. Two hundred lodge tents, sleeping two to six, have proper beds and bathrooms, private decks and top tech (Bose sound systems, Illy espresso machines); bigger tents have kitchenettes and a second bedroom – some even have another storey. There is a windsurfing centre on pebbly Pomer beach, a yoga deck in the forest, a sauna and hot tubs, spa treatments and a beach-based kids’ club. Self-caterers have a grocery store on-site, and there is a cafe, two beach bars and a restaurant. From £276pp for seven nights

Six simple apartments overlook big sandy Pembroke Bay, and 100 metres away The Bay ’s family-run apartments sleep two to six and share a swimming pool, tennis court and barbecue area. Two other beaches aren’t much further, and there are a couple of restaurants and the bus stop to St Peter Port, the island’s “capital”, right on the doorstep. Guests get discounts on trips to Herm island. From £267pp for seven nights

A trio of ultra-modern wood and glass cabins sit by the beach on the Kassandra peninsula, Halkidiki. The iHouses have huge sliding glass doors, sea-facing balconies, open-plan living spaces with sleek, custom-made wooden furniture, and shower rooms. They share an outdoor kitchen, a wooden terrace and a barbecue area – guests can buy fish from the nearby small port. Paliouri beach is a few steps away, where there is a beach bar and restaurant. Paliouri village is a 10-minute drive. From £326pp for seven nights

Northern France

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Hotel Les Tourelles is the former home of the perfumer Pierre Guerlain, who popularised the resort of Le Crotoy in the 19th century. Its long sandy beach is the only one in northern France that faces south, and inspired painters including Sisley, Toulouse-Lautrec and Seurat. Today, the 35-room hotel has the same panoramic views over the Somme Bay, but the decor is a more modern Nordic style. There is a seafood-heavy restaurant and a terrace facing the beach. A steam train chugs around the bay from Le Crotoy to St Valery. From £308pp for seven nights

Under £450 a week

Near Lisbon, Portugal

Noah’s Surf House in Santa Cruz has eight rooms and 13 bungalows facing the sea, plus a rooftop with a whirlpool bath and sunset deck; a pool, gym and skatepark; a restaurant and an organic vegetable garden. The cheapest rooms sleep up to eight in bunkbeds, hanging beds or mezzanines. The eye-catching building is made from concrete, glass, cork and wood; it uses solar panels, heat pumps and a rainwater system, and incorporates green roofs and lots of upcycled design features. Prices include breakfast and all group activities (skateboarding, trekking, yoga, fitness etc) except surf and paddleboard lessons. From £460pp for seven nights B&B and activities

Galicia, Spain

This four-bedroom beach house has a garden out front and the beach behind. The stone property, which was built in the 1950s and has been recently refurbished, is less than a mile from the town of Boiro. It has two double bedrooms and two singles, an open-plan lounge/kitchen with sea views, three bathrooms and a balcony. Barrana beach is a quiet two-mile stretch of sand with a promenade for walking or cycling (two bikes are included), while livelier Carragueiros beach is within walking distance. It is a 40-minute drive to Santiago de Compostela. £398pp for seven nights

Puglia, Italy

A three-bedroom villa, 10 metres from a sandy beach, Beach House I Gelsi has been recently renovated by its interior design-trained owners. It has a garden with an allotment and grape vine, outdoor dining area with a barbecue, and a terrace. Torre Chianca is a quiet Puglian summer resort – there is a bar, but the nearest shops (baker, butcher, greengrocer) and restaurants (a cafe, pizzerias, fish restaurants) are a five-minute drive away in Frigole, while baroque Lecce is seven miles south. From £405pp for seven nights (£315pp first week of July) , essentialitaly.co.uk

Cottage do Mar is a cosy fisherman’s place for two near Calheta, above what is essentially a private beach for a handful of properties. The cottage is open-plan, with doors that open the full width, giving sea views. Plenty of original features have been retained, such as the old bread oven. The bougainvillea-bedecked yard has a table, barbecue and sunbeds. The beach, 30 metres below, is reached by a stepped path, and has a beach hut (shared with two other cottages). Car hire is essential to reach the secluded property. From £455pp for seven nights

Under £550 a week

A former oceanfront restaurant in Charco del Palo has been converted into a villa. Eco Romantico Beach , which opens in April, has five en-suite bedrooms with kitchenettes (two yurt bedrooms will be added later), a living/dining area, roof terrace and solar-heated swimming pool. Guests can also swim in the sea pools below the villa. Charco del Palo is the island’s only naturist resort, so clothes are optional. The property is owned by Lanzarote Retreats, which has rentals across the island, from yurts and cottages to penthouse apartments. From £462pp for seven nights

Côte d’Azur, France

Menton, despite being known as “the pearl of the French Riviera”, is much more affordable than its glitzy neighbours Saint-Tropez, Cannes and Monaco. The Napoleon hotel on the seafront, right across the road from one of the 11 beaches of the Bay of Garavan, is a budget but stylish option. The 44 contemporary rooms have a white and blue palette with artworks by Jean Cocteau and Graham Sutherland, who both had connections with Menton, and views of either the sea, the mountains or the hotel’s tropical gardens. There is a solar-powered pool, a gym and bar. From £510pp, room only

Agni Beach Cotttage is a converted cafe that has been in the Katsaros family since it was built in 1898, and is now a cosy beachfront bolthole. It is an end-terrace one-bedroom cottage with a kitchen, lounge and shady terrace with a hammock, barbecue and two sunbeds. The cottage is on Agni Bay, a white-pebble beach in Gimari, 17 miles north of Corfu town. There are jetties for swimming, snorkelling and boating, plus three tavernas and a bar/cafe. It is 20 minutes’ walk north to Kalami Bay, a beach resort where novelist Lawrence Durrell once lived. From £529.50pp for seven nights in July ( £710 for seven nights from 12 July onwards )

Güllük, Turkey

Med-Inn is a laid-back, family-friendly beach hotel on the Bay of Güllük, 25 miles from Bodrum (and more than 500 miles from the area devastated by earthquakes in February in eastern Turkey). As well as a private beach, there is a jetty with sunloungers, a pool and gardens. All 26 rooms are suites with sea views and balconies (family suites have twin beds in the living room). There are two restaurants specialising in seafood and a top-floor dining room. The nearest village is Güllük, which has a handful of cafes and shops. Guests can also book a sailing trip on a gulet, take a boat trip to the ancient Greek city of Iasos, spend a day in Bodrum or beach hop along the Bodrum peninsula. A stay here will just break the budget, but you have to factor in the generous buffet breakfast that’s included. Seven nights from £565pp

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Good to know

Faqs - booking europe flights, what are some of the passport and visa requirements for united states citizens traveling to france.

Citizens of the United States need to have a valid passport and make sure that the passport remains valid for at least 90 days beyond their date of departure from France. When traveling on vacation, there is no need to get a visa so long as you plan on staying for less than 90 days in France.

If I plan on vacationing in Greece, what are some all the quickest ways I can get there from the United States?

Most Travelers in the United States flying to Greece will go to the Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH). When you are departing from the west coast of the United States and an airport like the San Francisco International Airport (SFO), your quickest option will be a board one-stop flights offered by Lufthansa they have layovers at Munich Franz Josef Strauss Airport (MUC).

If I plan on traveling to Germany for Oktoberfest, what are the best airport choices?

By far, the best airport choice is to travel to Munich Airport (MUC), which is the city where this event is held. When traveling from the United States, you can find nonstop flights aboard Lufthansa from both Los Angeles International Airport and John F. Kennedy International Airport, and there are one-stop flights on the same airline from Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW).

If I am traveling to the International Music Summit in Ibiza, what are some of the best ways to get there from the United States?

One of the most convenient airport choices to get to this event is to travel to the Ibiza Airport (IBZ). When traveling from John F. Kennedy International Airport, you will find one-stop flights aboard Air Europa and Iberia to this airport. If you are traveling from the West Coast of the United States from an airport such as Los Angeles International Airport, you can travel on one-stop flights aboard British Airways and Vueling.

If I would like to make my way to an eastern European country such as Poland, what are some good flight options from the United States?

Most Travelers in the United States making their way to this country will fly to the Warsaw Chopin Airport (WAW). If you’re departing from a large city on the East Coast United States such as the Boston Logan International Airport (BOS), the quickest trips occur on one-stop flights aboard Scandinavian Airlines that have layovers at Kastrup Copenhagen Airport (CPH).

Which airline is the best choice for nonstop flights to Sweden from the United States?

By far, your best choice is going to be SAS Airlines since they are based in Stockholm and have a reputation for offering great flight options to Sweden from the United States. One example of this would be the nonstop flights they offer between Chicago O' Hare International Airport (ORD) and Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN).  

How long is the flight to Europe?

An average nonstop flight from the United States to Europe takes 8h 13m, covering a distance of 4043 miles. The most popular route is Newark - London with an average flight time of 7h 05m.

What is the cheapest flight to Europe?

The cheapest ticket to Europe from the United States found in the last 72 hours was $94 one-way, and $287 round-trip. The most popular route is Newark to London Heathrow and the cheapest round-trip airline ticket found on this route in the last 72 hours was $486.

Which airlines fly to Europe?

British Airways, American Airlines & Finnair fly the most frequently from the United States to Europe. The most popular route is from New York to London, and United Airlines, Air Canada and Lufthansa fly this route the most.

What are the most popular destinations in Europe?

Based on KAYAK flight searches, the most popular destination is London (42% of total searches to Europe). The next most popular destinations are Paris (20%) and Rome (11%). Searches for flights to Athens (10%), to Madrid (5%) and to Lisbon (4%) are also popular.

How does KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a given destination and date is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

Top tips for finding cheap flights to Europe

• Enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search form above to unlock the latest Europe flight deals.
• A popular city in Europe that people from Los Angeles often travel to is Paris. Most travelers will utilize Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) as their departure airport, and to Paris Orly Airport there are non-stop flights aboard French Bee and Air Caraibes, and to Charles de Gaulle International Airport (CDG) there are direct flights aboard Air France and Delta Airlines.
• A city that is quite popular with travelers departing from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) is London. Some of the non-stop flight options available from the airport to London include flights aboard Finnair, Iberia, Virgin Atlantic, and American Airlines to Heathrow Airport (LHR), as well as non-stop flights aboard Norse Atlantic Airways, British Airways, and JetBlue to Gatwick Airport (LGW).
• Passengers in the United States traveling to any city in England and planning on renting a car should know that children must use a car seat until they are at least 12 years old. Parents can utilize the most appropriate type of child restraint based on the age and size of their child.
• When travelers in the center of the United States want to travel to the popular city of Berlin, they most often will depart on international flights from Chicago O' Hare International Airport (ORD). From this airport, passengers can find one-stop flights to Berlin Brandenburg Airport Willy Brandt (BER) aboard LOT Airlines, Icelandair, and Lufthansa.
• When parents plan on taking their children to France and will be driving a rental car, it is important to know that children up to 15 months of age must travel in a rear-facing car seat, and then up to four years old must travel in a forward-facing car seat. After that, any child up to 12 years of age needs to travel in either a booster seat or on a booster cushion.
• One of the most popular destinations in Europe for travelers from the United States is Madrid. When traveling from the large city of Boston and the Boston Logan International Airport (BOS), travelers can find nonstop flight options aboard Iberia, Finnair, and American Airlines to Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD).
• Another destination that is quite popular for visitors traveling to Europe is Vienna. When flying from Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL), passengers can find a number of one-stop flights aboard both United Airlines and Lufthansa that travel to Vienna International Airport (VIE).

Top 5 airlines flying to Europe

I'm a larger, athletic guy (6'2", 260lbs powerlifter) and I found the seats incredibly uncomfortable with minimal leg room, especially in a window seat. Now, I full understand that being smaller may change my view but even if I was 80lbs less, my legs would be the same size and I was sandwiched between my seat and the seat in front of me.

Horrible. This was not first class. This was a connecting flight whi h was late. My original flight never came. I hated the fact that delta gave me a connecting flight from New York to Orlando Florida. No meals and the television screens were not working. There wasn't even any power to charge your phones. This is NOT FIRST CLASS DELTA!!! Do better next time!

This flight was ridiculous. I had to have a connecting flight from New York to orlando Florida??? The flight left late and because it was a short flight there was no first class amenities. I had one alcohol drink. The flight crew was fine, but it sure did not feel like first class. Delta to me dropped the ball by giving me a connecting flight. By the time we got to Raleigh we would have missed the next flight. Lucky for me the flight never came so now I was stuck waiting for a later flight that came in late also.

Our flight was delayed in Atlanta. The staff could have gave us an explanation for the delay and how long it would be.

I liked the ease of checking in, luggage check in, wheel chair assistance, boarding and flight.

On my way home I had a layover. The flight from ATL to CLT was amended 5x while I was waiting. I could have driven home sooner. Overall from Dallas, Tx to Charlotte, NC I started my trip at 4:30pm, I didn’t get home until past midnight. I know things happen, but 5x to make me run back and forth in an airport from different terminals is excessive. I also upgraded to comfort + , I didn’t feel it was worth it. There was no benefit

On my way home I had a layover. The flight from ATL to CLT was amended 5x while I was waiting. I could have driven home sooner. Overall from Dallas, Tx to Charlotte, NC I started my trip at 4:30pm, I didn’t get home until past midnight. I know things happen, but 5x to make me run back and forth in an airport from different terminals is excessive.

They did a fine job. Can't wait to use Delta in the future.

There was a loud squeaky sound the whole time we were flying.

Had a broken tray in business class. Crew just shrugged it off.

Due to one crew member not showing up to work, our flight was significantly delayed causing us to miss our connecting flight in Houston to Mississippi causing us to be delayed by more than 6 hours and missing our event all together. Very disappointing. All because ONE crew member called in sick. United did grant us a $15 meal voucher, which was a small but appreciated concession that I wasn’t able to use because I ordered my lunch and paid for it before applying the concession, and the staff said it was too late to use it. Ugh! We also had a TWO delay coming back from Mississippi, but that was on American Airlines and it was due to weather, so not their fault. Anyway, not at all impressed with United’s handling of our flight and the HUGE disappointment of missing our important family event for our 90 year old mother. All that money and all that stress and emotions for nothing. Having to wait the hour to bring an employee from LAX seemed like something that should not have happened. Why don’t you have a local back-up? Santa Ana is not a little airport in a rural area.

Flight delayed from Cape Town to Washington then got diverted to miami and in miami we had to fend for ourselves , im still trying to get to Shreveport now

delay several times and wait extra long to board. no entertainment service because there are problem for some rows. always encounter some delays for the last flight of the day.

I just wrote a text which was supposed to be for the flight from Denver to spokane not Frankfurt to Denver.

On time every leg of the journey and exceptional staff at counter, gate, and on board. I haven’t travelled in US for a long time and was genuinely surprised how pleasant this was.

Hated every minute of it. This flight should have only taken 1.5hrs but was delayed over 10hours. Now I am being told I cannot be compensated or refunded my ticket price or extra leg room, which I purchased but did not receive, because the airline is throwing the blame on the 3rd party I purchased tickets through and 3rd party putting the blame on airline. No one wants to help. They received their money and that's all they care about. Im going on 3 days of still trying to get to my final destination, had to cancel car rental, car insurance and hotel. Currently staying in airport until hotels open up. Thank you Lufthansa, Kayak, Underpricer and United for making this trip the worst ever.

The delays (5 hrs) were a comedy of errors, and the multiple safety issues encountered were very concerning.

flight delays, staff only communicating when pushed, food service lasting a grand total of 7 minutes, stuck in seat from 45mins into flight until landing

Crew was great and did their best to make us comfortable and captain came out at the beginning to announce why the flight was delayed, weather situation up ahead, and kept us updated throughout the flight.

the flight from Tampa departed with a delay. The food on board was poor, usually on international airlines alcoholic beverages are offered free of charge , but here it was for a fee, the cutlery was wooden, there were no hot drinks (tea, coffee). Unfortunately, I didn't take pictures of the portions of food, but it wouldn't have been enough for a child either.And in the future, I will try not to use the services of this airline

Just get Economy Plus for international flights, so worth it the extra room, bigger seats…

This flight is frequently delayed. The connections seemingly are more frequently delayed. I’ve missed connections as a result twice on the same route to charlotte then Charleston. Final destination arrival has been the next day, twice in a row. No pilots, no crew. Too many excuses. Unfortunately, my days with American are over.

Entertainment was okay not because anything was wrong but it is a short flight so having no wifi is annoying but understandable. Crew was outstanding as usual

It was spectacular. I had basic Economy and was given so much space and their seats lean back so far. Staff was superb, food was superb, everything was superb, Finnair is Fantastic.

Those seats were way too narrow. I had the middle seat, one person was a very skinny person and we still couldn’t avoid touching each other anytime one of us moved. The other person was larger and we were basically sitting in each others lap the entire flight. There was zero entertainment. The flight was long enough to justify tvs, but no. Gotta sit there in your infant seat and twiddle your thumbs.

The Flight attendant had an attitude and didn't allow anyone any time to prepare for landing despite being absent throughout the entire trip

Flight boarded without pilots. Sat on plane for 3 hrs. after over an hour late boarding. Plane never took off. Had to deplane near midnight. Line for rebooking was 3 hours + long. I had to leave.

The flight was great but board was a nightmare. The gate was changed 4 times during the layover period

The experience was great and much better than the flight going out. of course I was in first class but the service was excellent

Cold air blew constantly on my legs almost making me numb.

Horrible experience. Nothing to give to kids to keep them entertained.

I think I have bruises on my kneecaps. Do the seats have to be so close together these days? And if they are so close they really shouldn’t recline. I think when the gentleman in front of me reclined, the back of his head was on my chin. That being said the crew were always caring and polite, and the flight was on time and very safe. So I’m grateful for that.

I always try to book flights that don’t charge for baggage. Yet I was charged $75 for this flight.

Trouble keeps changing the time and I was booked different flight without knowing it was bad experience

I dropped my wallet under my seat on this flight with all of my money and credit card. I requested to be able to go back and retrieve it but Lufthansa denied my request. I went to the Customer Services and they called Lost and Found but I was told nothing found would be turned in until around 12:00pm. My next flight was leaving so I was unable to check to see if my wallet was turned in. I will never fly with Lufthansa again.

My concern is with Flight: 441 IAH-FRA I was very cramped in my seat and the person in front of me was reclined. I pulled my wallet out of my purse and when finished I did my best to cram it back into my purse. Our flight was very delayed and we were rebooked twice and lots of airport time. As I got off the flight I noticed that I had dropped my wallet( containing all my credit & debit bank cards + 240 US dollars & 240 Euros. I spoke to customer service & Lost &Found. I was denied access to look on the plane. Therefore I have been without money and given no help. Paula Bjork 503.545.6698

Dinner was good by air travel standards but breakfast was too light and heavy on carbs/sugar.

Used to love Lufthansa, but Rowe are too close together in Economy and passengers are allowed to recline their seats so far back it is impossible for those behind them to even reach for carry-on essentials during flight - except for meal service when flight attendants ask for seat backs to be raised, we can’t sleep on planes so this flight was most uncomfortable ever! Rod Rose

So far so good. I missed my flight because of the Lufthansa diversion. United helped me to figure out how to get accommodations from Lufthansa for my long layover. They help me book appropriate onward flight.

Horrible crowding on the seats, headphones provided did not fit or work in the entertainment center, seriously the most uncomfortable flight I have taken in a LONG time. The people in front of me were literally 5 inches from my face the entire flight. Did they change their seats recently? I remember it being tight but wow this was a whole new level. Also I am a 5'3" small woman so I can't even imagine a larger person dealing with that for 11 hrs.

In economy and food was ok, but with limited leg space (and I was in a 2 seat configuration) it was difficult to eat with a tiny seat tray. I spilt wine on my trousers. First time on British Air (I usually fly Turkish Air) and in a 777. Heathrow was pleasant but changing terminals awkward.

Starting with the flight Cairo to London the plain was so poor no entertainment at all uncomfortable seats although it’s 5 hours long,then an American airline plain took me from London to Miami it was a bad experience the crew most of flight time not available and they asked us to help our selves for any snacks if we need. From Miami to London actually was perfect flight with a huge plain and perfect crew but from London to Cairo was horrible plain with stiff fixed seats not movable no entertainment or wi fi very poor Menu which is unacceptable for a business class

I've done hundreds of flights in my life, and this flight was one of the best I've ever taken, From beginning to end, everything went smoothly, professionally, and with a smile and friendly attitude from all employees I interacted with. The food was delicious (and free), as were the drinks. There was just a genial and effective way in the way that British Airways organized the flight -that reminded of days in the 70's, 80's, and 90's, when flying was a fun, and exciting adventure. I enjoyed and had confidence in the abilities of the flight crew, I'll be flying British Airways several more times this summer. Thank you so much for the great experience! Cheryl Olso

My baggage did not arrived with me. Took 3 days to get it after so may calls and follow up

Terrible! I missed my flight to my final destination and British airlines and American Airlines keep pointing fingers on each other’s. Nobody wants to take responsibility

Terrible. Flight was 3 hours delayed and I missed my other flight to my final destination

Overall, terrific service, accommodations, and experience. Only reason comfort was rated lower was because it was difficult to keep a comfortable sleeping position for the overnight flight, but I also had an economy seat.

Not sure if the crew were experiencing something unknown to me,but the service of passing water was non-existent.In addition,please take consideration when providing yogurt as alternative for breakfast as some of us, could be lactose intolerant.. thanks

Very cramped seats in economy, difficult to get comfortable with your legs and feet and back. The seat width is ok but I’m average size. Food is HORRIBLE. Crew is friendly. Delays and very tight connections made it tough for navigating. We would have missed our connecting flight if it wasn’t delayed too. The terminal transit was slow and normally every 10 minutes before 8pm, after 8 pm is every 30 minutes!!!!! No free wine or drinks!! Below average attitude.

Leg room was better than expected. Lavatory’s were easy to access.crew was grea!

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Eating through italy, amazing amsterdam, epicurean paris, more about europe.

Europe blends its rich history and modern innovation seamlessly. From the catwalks of Paris fashion week to the awe-inspiring ruins of Greek temples you'll find it hard to fit everything into one vacation. The vast expanse of Europe is covered in numerous cultures, languages and landscapes that can make you feel like you've been transported onto the set of a movie. Sit down for a cup of tea in London, learn how to make your own pasta in Italy or simply take time to stare in wonder at the amazing Highlands of Scotland. Whether you're traveling with family, friends or your special someone, a trip to Europe will be a vacation to remember.

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9 CHEAP Countries in Europe to Visit With AMAZING Food

SAVE YOUR MONEY! With a variety of amazing places to travel, I focus on cheap countries in Europe to visit that have amazing food. Read on to pick the perfect spot for your next vacation! 

Europe Is Cheap By Picking The Right Countries and Cities

For wanderlust travelers, Europe’s romantic cities, old world architecture and fascinating history make it an essential travel destination. Money is the common obstacle to making this dream a reality.

Europe’s notorious price tag stopped me from enjoying its wonderful food for years before I discovered there are cheap countries in Europe to visit.

Even expensive countries have cheap cities, so in this article, I not only focus on the cheapest European countries but the city with the best prices and the best food.

Although these places aren’t usually famous spots travelers dream about, they express their own unique charms that romanticize the senses and satisfy the tastebuds. 

1. Lisbon, Portugal

Did you think Portugal would make the list? Out of all the cheap countries in Europe to visit, Portugal, specifically Lisbon, earned its spot with plenty to offer with inexpensive attractions, a simple public transit system, and food that leaves me dreaming about my inevitable return. 

Cheap Eats in Lisbon

Visit Tascas – €15 Per Person

Tascas are Portuguese local eateries (taverns) that are usually family run, serving sharable dishes similar to Spanish tapas, but with heftier portion sizes. Here, you will find amazing dishes such as bacalhau (salted cod), grilled pork, and the ubiquitous seafood rice.

My Favorite Tasca in Lisbon Restaurante Fidalgo :  R. da Barroca 27, 1200-047 Lisboa, Portugal

Don’t Forget About Bifanas – €3 Euro 

I ate Bifanas almost every other day during my month long trip to Lisbon. They move beyond just delicious and into the sublime.

Thin slices of pork cook in white wine, garlic, and spices then piled on a sweet potato bun, all topped with yellow mustard and sometimes a lovely hot oil. Wash these down with a beer and count yourself lucky to have experienced one of the most delicious, cheapest meals of your life. 

Best Bifanas in Lisbon As Bifanas do Afonso :  Portugal, R. da Madalena 146, 1100-340 Lisboa, Portugal

Tastiest Seafood on the Planet – €30 – €40 Per Person

Maybe my subconscious influenced my opinions, but, to me, Lisbon’s seafood tastes better than anywhere else. No proper explanation holds water, but that’s my conclusion. 

Even better, the inexpensive price tag of seafood remains unrivaled. Whole seafood meals reveal manageable prices with lobster, crab, shrimp, and clams for around 30 – 40 Euros per person, with prices shooting lower if you skipped the larger crustaceans. 

Best Seafood Restaurant in Lisbon: Ramiro : Av. Alm. Reis 1 H, 1150-007 Lisboa, Portugal

Cheap Things To Do in Lisbon

Belem Tower – Free 

This 16th-century fortification served as the launching point for explorations around the world. For a basic visit, hop on the metro or make the walk and see the Belem Tower for yourself… and it’s free. No entrance fees to this marvelous piece of history. 

Belem Tower : Av. Brasília, 1400-038 Lisboa, Portugal

Watch A Fado Show in Alfama – Free or Cost Of Dinner

Fado’s melancholic tunes echo through the streets in the Alfama neighborhood. Take a stroll around 8 pm and hear the talented musicians share an intricate part of their history. 

If you want a more up close and personal experience, plenty of restaurants offer fado shows with dinner, but if you are tight on cash, watching and listening from afar is still wonderfully magical. 

Alfama Neighborhood : https://goo.gl/maps/YXfWBTxRGirKmFkG8

2. Granada, Spain

Even Spain makes the list of cheap countries in Europe to visit. In the south of Spain in the region of Andalusia, Granada shines as a food paradise for the frugal traveler.

Cheap Eats in Granada

Tapas, Tapas, and More Tapas – Free

For those unfamiliar, tapas are small plates of food meant to be shared with the table.

Tapas originated in Granada and are still served traditionally: free with the purchase of a drink. Yes, you read that correctly. Tapas are FREEEEEE. 

What’s the catch? Well, there isn’t one. Drinks are reasonably priced around €2-€ 5 EUR for a glass of wine, and €6-€10 for a cocktail. Tapas are small, and sometimes just a single bite of food. If you are hungrier, each restaurant provides a full menu with plenty of delicious treats. 

The Best Tapas Bar in Granada Tocateja : Calle Trinidad, 8, 18001 Granada, Spain

Freshly Fried Churros – €5

Granada churros are thick, light, and airy foregoing the usual cinnamon and sugar. But the proper way to eat churros comes with dipping each morsel into a cup of thick chocolate. 

I loved the churros so much that I wrote about my favorite churro spots in Granada and encourage all travelers to try them all! 

My Favorite Churro Spot in Granada La Churrería : Pl. Pescadería, 17, 18001 Granada, Spain

Cheap Things to Do in Granada

Wonder Around The Alhambra – €14

The Alhambra’s intricately designed rooms and unique architectural features are a must see in the city. If you try to find tickets online, they range from 25-45 Euros, but these are from third-party sites. 

For the real deal, check out the official website where the general admission is only 14 Euro per person. Very inexpensive for a full day at one of the most beautiful palaces in the world. 

Alhambra : C. Real de la Alhambra, s/n, 18009 Granada, Spain https://tickets.alhambra-patronato.es/en/

Walk, bike, and run through Granada – Free

The stone streets, ancient architecture, and bustling neighborhoods make Granda a perfect city to take your time and smell the roses. Spend an afternoon getting lost along the side streets or find a bike tour to see the city at a faster pace.

3. Istanbul, Turkey

Yes, Istanbul is part of Europe… well at least half of it anyways. Istanbul’s history uncovers an intense and rich backstory filled with a variety of cultures and religions leaving their mark on this magnificent city. If you are looking for an inexpensive place in Europe that has an introduction to Islamic culture, Istanbul is your city to visit. 

Cheap Eats in Istanbul

Food is everywhere in Istanbul from street vendors to world renowned restaurants. My favorite meals in Istanbul were undoubtedly the cheapest and found only in special restaurants around the city. 

Perfect Turkish Kebabs – ₺56 ($3.5USD)

Street meat runs rampant across Istanbul, but I quickly discovered that there is good kebab and there is GREAT kebab.

Şehzade Cağ Kebap served my favorite using a wood fire horizontal meat spit to cook the meat before it’s skewered and given a hard sear over a grill of super hot coals. One of the top ten things I’ve ever eaten. I ate myself completely full with several helpings of lamb skewers for less than $8 USD.

My Favorite Kebap in Istanbul Şehzade Cağ Kebap : Hoca Paşa, Hoca Paşa Sk. No:6 D:4, 34110 Fatih/İstanbul, Turkey

Creamy Turkish Scrambled Eggs – ₺42 ($2USD)

The best eggs. Yes, the best eggs. These eggs are slurried over high heat with peppers and tomatoes with my favorite version cooked with salty Turkish cheese. For around $2 USD, this is an unbelievably great meal. Check out Lades Menemen for the best scrambled eggs of your life. 

My Favorite Turkish Scrambled Eggs in Istanbul Lades Menemen : Katip Mustafa Çelebi, Mahallesi, Sadri Alışık Sk. 11/12 11/12 11 D:12, 34435 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Turkey

Baklava and Other Desserts – ₺40- ₺80 ($2-$5USD)

Originating from the Ottoman Empire, Baklava’s deep roots in the Turkish culture manifests a serious business with sweet shops all over Istanbul creating beautiful, flaky creations. 

Baklava is a pastry made with chopped nuts, sweetened with sugar or honey, and baked between multiple layers of thin dough resulting in a super flaky crust. 

With a large variety, beginners should stick with pistachio or walnut filled baklava.

My Favorite Baklava in Istanbul Karaköy Güllüoğlu : Kemankeş Cad. Katlı Otopark Altı No: 3-4, 34425 Beyoğlu, Turkey

Cheap Things To Do in Istanbul

Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque – Free

The Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque face each other with a beautiful courtyard and fountain connecting them. From looking at these structures, anyone will understand why these two mosques are the top attractions of Istanbul. 

The best part? Both are free to visit. The only catch is there are rules to follow and the mosques close at certain times of the day for prayers. Do your research and plan ahead! 

Hagia Sophia : Sultan Ahmet, Ayasofya Meydanı No:1, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Turkey

Blue Mosque : Sultan Ahmet, Atmeydanı Cd. No:7, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Turkey

Galata Tower and Galata Bridge – Free

Poking above the skyline on the north end of the city is the Galata Tower. With completed construction around the mid 1300s, Galata Tower is more than another building but a quintessential part of Istanbul’s identity. 

With streets and alleyways leading the way, check out the Galata Tower at the base or pay about ₺130 ($8 USD) to take a walk to the top and see the city from a birds eye view. 

Although the bridge appears plain, sunsets never looked better than from the middle of the Galata Bridge. 

Deep orange and red fill the skies every evening and the silhouettes of the mosques stand prominent amongst the breathtaking backdrop.

Galata Tower : Bereketzade, Galata Kulesi, 34421 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Turkey

Galata Bridge : Kemankeş Karamustafa Paşa, Galata Köprüsü, 34425 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Turkey

4. Zagreb, Croatia

Croatia’s popularity comes from its coastal towns, but the capital, Zagreb, holds its own charms with a food scene that is uniquely Croatian. The cuisine is local and seasonal, rustic, yet elegant all at the same time. 

If your trip takes you to Croatia, you will most likely land in Zagreb, and I recommend you visit for a few days to enjoy one of the cheapest places in Europe. 

Cheap Eats in Zagreb

Freshly Baked Strukli – $43 KN ($6 USD)

A baked casserole, strukli comes in both sweet and savory forms. Dough is stretched, filled, and baked. A no frills strukli usually contains the basics of sour cream, cheese, and eggs (don’t worry, it’s super good). 

At La Struk, everyone receives their own strukli with a personal sized casserole dish, filled with delicious bits of your choosing. Sweet, cheese and piping hot, these strukli tasted superb and satisfied on all levels.

My Favorite Strukli in Zagreb La Struk : Skalinska ul. 5, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia

Hunt For Black Truffles – $777 KN ($110 USD)

I know what you are thinking, truffles are expensive, but in Croatia, the truffle market rivals the best in the world at a fraction of the price. Supermarkets even sell preserved truffles in jars for around $10USD. 

For the good stuff, the fresh black truffles, you need to visit specialty food shops, or, even better, find them yourself in the surrounding mountains outside Zagreb. 

We did the Truffle Hunting Experience and took home three beautiful large black truffles. Have you ever held a real, fresh black truffle? I didn’t think so!

I cooked black truffle risotto, eggs, and potatoes. Such a great experience working with a unique ingredient. This is a more costly adventure around $110 USD per person, but compared to other similar experiences in Italy or France, this is a quarter of the price. 

Truffle Hunting Zagreb: http://trufflehunting-zagreb.hr/en/

Crunchy Zagreb Schnitzel – $108 KN ($15 USD)

Crispy, cheese,y and delicious, the Pri Zvoncu is a classic Zagreb dish with a thin piece of pork cheese and ham rolled up, battered then fried, usually in pork fat. Yes, all the good things I love and more in one dish. 

My Favorite Schnitzel in Zagreb Pri Zvoncu : Ul. Vrbik XII 1, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia

Cheap Things To Do in Zagreb

Take a Selfie In Front Of St. Marks Church – Free

For a famous Zagreb attraction visit St. Marks Church in the heart of the city. The uniquely patterned roof displays the Coat of arms of the Triune Kingdom of Croatia, Slavonia, and Dalmatia (left), and the city of Zagreb (right). If you wanted an Instagramable spot in Zagreb, you found it!

St. Marks Church : Trg Sv. Marka 5, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia

Shop and Eat On Tkalčićeva Street – Free

Once the red light district, Tkalčićeva Street runs through the city center showcasing amazing restaurants and eclectic shops. If you only have a few hours to spend in Zagreb, this is where you want to spend your time. 

Tkalčićeva Street : Ul. Ivana Tkalčića 82-84, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia

Explore Dolac Market – Free

Located in the city’s town square, this farmer’s market runs daily with every type of produce imaginable. Buy some grapes, ham, wine, and cheese for a picnic in one of Zagreb’s many parks. 

Dolac Market : Dolac 8, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia

5. Bucharest, Romania

For cheap countries in Europe to visit, I initially picked Romania for the inexpensive rental prices and cheap food, but I was blown away at how every dish I tasted was delicious. Bucharest is one of the least expensive and least visited places on this list, making it a unique adventure for those looking for something new. 

Cheap Eats in Bucharest

Sweet and Sour Papanasi – 17 LEI ($3.5 USD)

Oh my goodness. I miss Papanasi the most from all the desserts I ate in Europe. A mix of flour, cottage cheese, and sugar is fried until golden brown perfection and finished with loose sour cream and berry compote. The flavors in this surpass every type of donut I’ve tried. Papanasi is worth traveling for. 

Best Papanasi in Bucharest Vatra Restaurant : Strada Ion Brezoianu 19, București 010131, Romania

Ribs And Other Grilled Meats For Two – 109 LEI ($22.10 USD)

Romanian restaurants throughout Bucharest provide a wide range of grilled meat offerings. Lamb and Pork ribs by far take the top spots in my book. Most restaurants will have something for everyone, but don’t shy away from trying something new. 

My Favorite Grilled Ribs Bucharest Costelaria : Calea Rahovei 147-153, București 050892, Romania

Delicious, Cheap Cocktails – 27-35 LEI ( $5-7 USD)

The drinking/party scene remained vibrant despite the Covid-19 pandemic. Specialty cocktail bars line the streets of the Old Town with plenty of offerings. With most cocktails ranging from around $5-$7 USD, you can bet this part of Bucharest gets full on the weekends. 

My Favorite Cocktails in Bucharest Nomad Skybar : Etaj 2, Strada Smârdan 30, București 030167, Romania

Things to Do in Bucharest

National Museum of Art of Romania – 20 LEI ($4 USD)

A museum worth the time, the National Museum of Art of Romania showcases classical European works as well as historical art from Romanian History. The entrance is 20 Lei, around $4 USD, and is a perfect way to spend a rainy afternoon. 

SKIP Dracula’s Castle

I hate writing about what not to do, but please skip any tour to Bran Castle, aka Dracula’s Castle. The structure is not quite a castle but feels more like an old mansion with nothing spooky or unique about it. Save the money and see something else. 

6. Prague, Czechia

As one of the cheap countries to visit in Europe, Czechia is wonderfully mountainous with spectacular cities. Prague stands out as immensely beautiful featuring perpetual stone streets, ancient architecture, and a food scene that stands out amongst other European nations. A few days walking these romantic streets will leave a lasting mark on any traveler. 

Cheap Eats in Prague

Goulash, Goulash, Goulash – 229 CZK ($9.50)

Every traditional Czech restaurant in Prague features goulash with each having its own unique spin on the classic. I found the best goulash cost the least and a few blocks away from the tourist sites. These beefy stews taste wonderful with steamed dumplings and a freshly poured Pilsner. 

My Favorite Goulash in Prague U Červeného Páva : 6, Kamzíková 543/6, Staré Město, 110 00, Czechia

Oblozene Chlebicky- Traditional Open Faced Sandwiches – 49 CZK ($2-3 USD)

In Prague, these sandwiches look like works of art and cost barely anything. The flavor components are masterfully created with sweet, salty, savory, and bitter working in harmony all on a single piece of bread. Each sandwich costs roughly 2-3 USD, so select a variety to sample!

Bistro Sister : 39, Dlouhá 727, Staré Město, 110 00 Praha, Czechia

Super Crispy Schnitzel – 228 CZK ($9.5 USD)

Every European country fries up their own version of schnitzel, and the Czechs do a fantastic job of their own. Usually served with potatoes, schnitzels are flattened slices of pork breaded and deep fried, usually, but not always, in pork fat. Crispy, juicy, and delicious, schnitzels take the top spot of my favorite foods in Prague. 

My Favorite Schnitzel in Prague U Parlamentu : Valentinská 52, 110 00 Staré Město, Czechia

Cheap Things To Do in Prague

Discover The Astronomical Clock – Free

At the center of Old Town is the Astronomical Clock, a feature that is the oldest of its kind still in operation. The medieval clock not only shows the date and time but also the sun and moon phases with a parade of the twelve apostles moving every hour. 

Astronomical Clock : Staroměstské nám. 1, 110 00 Josefov, Czechia

Walk Across The Charles Bridge – Free

One of the most iconic European structures, the Charles Bridge remains the must see attraction of Prague. Walking across the bridge, travelers will see 30 statues with depictions of saints that were revered at that time. The gothic style architecture is not only beautiful but uniquely Prague. 

Charles Bridge : Karlův most, 110 00 Praha 1, Czechia

Get Lost In Prague Castle – 250 CZK ($10 USD)

With a rich history dating back to the year 870, Prague Castle is a magnificent structure that out lasted time and plenty of wars. It’s free to walk around the Castle and the main grounds, but it costs 250 CZK ($10 USD) to enter and tour the full facility. 

Prague Castle : Hradčany, 119 08 Prague 1, Czechia

7. Syros, Greece

Filled with historical wonders, Greece is a cheap European country to visit for those looking to explore ancient civilizations, but for this article, I want to focus on the Greek islands.

Santorini and Mykonos steal the spotlight when travelers dream of visiting the Greek islands, but both come with huge price tags. Syros, a little known spot frequented by mainland Greeks, is home to the same wonderful Mediterranean waters at a much, much cheaper price.

Cheap Eats in Syros

Perfectly Prepared Seafood – €15 – €20 Per Person

If you’ve listened to my podcast or read anything from my other food guides, then you know I adore seafood, especially when it’s simply prepared. Syros’ seafood restaurants highlight the food without covering it with thick sauces or complicating the flavors with intricate cooking methods. Simple and delicious.

I cannot brag about this sea urchin pasta enough. One of my favorite dishes of all time and unbelievably delicious. 

My Favorite Seafood Spot SEARIANI’ :  Sofokleous 4, Ermoupoli 841 00, Greece

Delicious Cafes Everywhere in Syros – €12

Cafe culture is prominent on Syros whether you are craving brunch, coffee, or something light to eat for lunch. My wife and I loved sleeping in and hitting a cafe in the early afternoon for our first meal.

We drank freshly squeezed juices, ate decadent Croque Madams, and sipped on frothy cappuccinos all while enjoying the gentle sea breeze. 

My Favorite Cafe in Syros  SEMINARIO :  Kiparissou 7, Ermoupoli 841 00, Greece

Oh Yes, More Grilled Meats – €15 – €20

Pork, beef, and sausage are always delicious treats. Most local Greek eateries around Syros serve up common greek dishes and surprisingly, the grilled meats were some of the cheapest and most delicious I had in Europe.

My Favorite Grilled Meat Spot in Syros Ιθάκη του Αή : Klonos, Ermoupoli 841 00, Greece

Cheap Things To Do in Syros

Asteria Beach – Free

I am sure there are plenty of wonderful things to do on the island, but we focused mostly on the water. Located all along the coast are jumping points to swim and enjoy the ocean.

Located in a small cove, my favorite swimming spot, Asteria Beach, shielded the waves and currents so I could swim freely without worry. 

Best Beach in Syros Greece Asteria Beach : Ermoupoli 841 00, Greece

8. Warsaw, Poland

The large and inexpensive capital of Poland is more than pirogies! After rebuilding from WWII, Warsaw became a modern city with efficient infrastructure and a culinary landscape that includes food from all around the world. 

Cheap Eats in Warsaw

Unbelievable International Fare- ₹50 ($10 USD)

To my surprise, the international food scene flows throughout all parts of Warsaw. From Thai to Napolitana Pizza to Belgian Waffles, the citizens of Warsaw love their variety, embracing culinary influences from around the world. 

My Favorite Pizza in Warsaw Casa di Tuzza :  Senatorska 28, 00-096 Warszawa, Poland

Milk Bar – ₹20 -50 ($4-10 USD)

Born in a post WWI era, Milk Bars became popular as a way for workers to eat nutritious food at an affordable cost. The traditions carry on today with deceptively great meals at a fraction of the price of normal restaurants. 

Bar Bambino showed culinary superiority by giving us better food than most notable restaurants in Warsaw. Two entrees, two soups and two sodas for around $10USD.

My favorite Milk Bar in Warsaw Bar Bambino : Hoża 19, 00-521 Warszawa, Poland

Reassured Faith in Fine Dining- ₹200 -₹300 ($42-$63 USD)

I know fine dining isn’t cheap, but here in Warsaw, the fine dining restaurants serve better food than their three Michelin-starred western European counterparts with a more affordable prices.

Opasły Tom created a menu beyond normal imagination with unique adaptations of traditional Polish cuisine. Remember, this is fine dining but the prices are well worth the price. 

My Favorite Fine Dining Restaurant in Warsaw Restauracja Opasły Tom : Wierzbowa 9, 00-094 Warszawa, Poland

Cheap Things To Do in Warsaw

Uprising Museum – ₹ 20 ($4.2USD)

During WWII, German occupied Warsaw saw its fair share of brutality and destruction. An underground resistance of Polish soldiers fought to liberate the city. Learn about the struggle and sacrifice of these brave soldiers during one of the most intense times during WWII. 

Many museums throughout Warsaw have free days, including the Uprising Museum where admission is free. Plan ahead and see if you can forgo the admission cost. 

Uprising Museum : Grzybowska 79, 00-844 Warszawa, Poland

Old Town – Free

Although mostly reconstructed after its bombardment during WWII, Old Town maintains its charms with beautifully colored town squares, brick streets, and a quintessential European feel. 

Old Town : rynek Starego Miasta, 00-272 Warszawa, Poland

9. Tirana, Albania 

Out of all the cheap countries in Europe to visit, Albania takes home the award for the most surprisingly delicious food. I knew nothing about Albania, and visiting Tirana started off intimidating, but I experienced a welcoming hospitality through unbelievably great food. 

Cheap Eats in Tirana

Seafood – 1000-3000 LEK ($8-$24 USD)

How does Tirana serve such amazing seafood? Coming second only to Lisbon, Tirana’s seafood was fresh, delicious, and super affordable.

Like half the price of other places in Europe.

At every seafood restaurant, I was asked to pick out my own fish and look through their impressive selection of shellfish.  

Make your choices and if you need help choosing, anyone working in the restaurant will give you their suggestions. I know from experience.

My Favorite Seafood Restaurant in Tirana Restorant Peshku i Arte : 8RFG+XH9, Rruga Bako Dervishaj, Tirana, Albania

Grilled Meats Over Hard Wood Coals – 200-600 LEK ($2-5 USD)

Throughout Tirana, small taverns billow copious clouds of smoke through the surrounding neighborhoods. All the grilled meats imaginable are available, and I recommend you try a little of each.

My favorites were meatballs with tzatziki sauce and roasted chicken washed down with a liter of local Tirana beer 🙂 

My Favorite Restaurant for Grilled Meats in Tirana Kernace Zgare Fatosi : 8RHF+PQ8, Rruga Luigj Gurakuqi, Tirana, Albania

Cheap Craft Cocktails

Who doesn’t want to drink themselves silly under $10? Eclectic and artistic bars pop up all around the city. Most of them have a theme with a specialized cocktail list that rivals the best bars in the world. 

My Favorite Cocktail Bar in Tirana Radio Bar : Rruga Ismail Qemali P. 29 Ap. 1, Tirana, Tiranë 1000, Albania

Cheap Things To Do in Tirana

Since I stayed in Tirana during 2020, most activities were limited, so I just stuck to eating and drinking. Unfortunately, I do not have a list of fun, cheap things to do, but I will update this when I return to Tirana.

These cheap countries in Europe to visit incorporate Western, Central, and Eastern European countries, showing that there is a city for everyone. Depending on your exact budget and what you want to do, Europe is within reach as long as you pick the right city and time of year to travel.

From my perspective, these cities cook amazing food that will make any hungry traveler happy. By sticking with local cuisine, not only did I save money, but I experienced the culinary traditions of every European country.

Chris Kretzer has traveled the world visiting over 35 countries and eating his way through every city. With his wife Tiarra, they explore different food cultures and create food guides, podcasts , and travel articles helping everyone experience the world through food.

11 of the best value train journeys in Europe (Starting from €9! )

The best and cheapest way to see Europe ? How about travelling by train across Europe. While it is not as cheap as coach travel, trains in Europe, if booked in advance, can offer some incredible deals. It beats flying anyway and also is the most sustainable and one of the cheapest ways to travel across Europe. While for peace of mind and ease of travel, an Eurail pass is incredible, if you do have a rough itinerary in mind and prepared to book the long distance routes 90 days in advance ( or 9 months for trains in France) , there are some incredible  cheap train tickets for Europe. Following my revised guide to the best budget bus companies to see Europe, I’ve compiled a list of the 11 best tips and hacks to find cheap trains in Europe.

1. Use the stopover feature on Deutsche Bahn’s international tickets to travel from Berlin to Prague with stopover in Dresden for €18.90

Plan a stopover at no extra cost thanks to this incredible feature from deutsche bahn.

If you are visiting Berlin for example with plans to continue to Prague, via the Deutsche Bahn website, you can add a 24 hour stopover in Dresden at no extra price.

For example, searching in March 2022, you can buy a ticket from Berlin to Prague for as little as €18.90 with a 24 hour stopover in Dresden.

Or if you are planning to visit Budapest, you can book a ticket from Berlin to Budapest for €46.90 with a 24 hour stopover in Prague.

PS: If you are planning a trip to Prague, checkout my guide to the best budget places to stay in Prague ,  Prague on a budget and also my guide to the best things to do in Prague

These are Deutsche Bahn’s Sparpreis advance-purchase cheap fares.

For an extra €19.90 you can also upgrade your ticket to 1st class where you’ll get a slightly better seat and legspace but honestly in my opinion, there is not really a big difference between travelling 1st and 2nd class on these trains.

2. Prague to Budapest- €16 and Vienna to Budapest- €9 with Regiojet

One of the best value cheap train europe deals- tick off three classic europe destinations with one incredible fare.

Formerly the Student Travel Agency which started out offering low-cost luxury bus services within Czech Republic, the agency has now rebranded as Regiojet offering incredible value low-cost train services within Czech Republic and beyond.

The best value deal of the lot, was launched last summer when Regiojet started a new train service that linked up three key European capitals that are a staple of every Eurotrip- Prague, Vienna and Budapest. Currently there are 2 trains servicing the route daily. Tickets start from as little as €16 between Prague and Budapest and just €9 from Vienna to Budapest.

A quick search pulled up a few of the €16 Prague and Budapest fares in March 2022. The basic fare includes seat reservations and WiFi. For an extra €2.30 you get a better seat, free newspaper water and access to their built-in LCD screens.

3. Prague to Budapest with Czech Railways for €21 in advance

Another slightly more expensive and alternative option is to book Eurocity train from Prague to Budapest for as little as €21 or 514 CZK. You can only book this ticket in advance only via the

Czech Railways website.

4. Prague to Munich for €15 via Czech Railways

Czech railways, portal for czech trains can sometimes offer some great deals on train travel…..

If you are travelling from Czech Republic to Germany, I would also strongly urge you to look up fares on Czech Railways website where they can be often a third cheaper than when booking via Deutsche Bahn website.

For example on 30th March, travelling from Prague to Munich on the direct train, ( 11.38am ) the fare shows up as €42 one way via bahn.de website but if you look at the Czech Railways website, same train and fare shows up as 360 CZK which is €14.76 which is a massive saving.

Promenade Anglais, Nice

5. Paris to Nice €19 with the French low cost train service Ouigo

A low-cost, high-speed train service operated by sncf .

Visiting France soon? While many are familiar with their amazing TGV trains, Voyages SNCF also has a low-cost train service called Ouigo which offers fares as cheap as €10 between Paris Marné la Vallée and Lyon or Bordeaux & €19 from Paris to Nice. These super cheap fares open 9 months in advance so you should book early to get these fares.

For example, a quick search on en.oui.sncf, I can see a bunch of fares for €10 from Paris to Bordeaux in June 2022. It is worth noting that this fare is valid from Marné la Vallée which is the TGV outpost for Disneyland Paris and is a 12 minute , €15 ride from Paris CDG airport. Or you can take the underground to Châtelet-Les-Halles from where you take the RER-line A to Marne-la-Vallée. Journey time is 35 minutes and costs €7.50.

If you are planning to travel to Paris and Nice, Ouigo also operate a low-cost service on this popular route. In June 2022, I can see fares for as little as €19. Trains leave from the more central Gare de Lyon to Nice.

Ouigo also has a few extras to keep in mind. If you want a seat with electric sockets for an extra €2 and if you want to be in the quiet carriage, there is an extra €5 fee.

Trainline’s cheap fare finder feature is a really handy feature to find out the cheapest fares in the next month

PS: Another brilliant value train deal to also keep in mind is the Milan to Paris route. Being offseason, there is a bunch of their cheap €29 fares on sale now on the route ( Trainline’s excellent low fare calendar is a very handy tool )   Journey time is 7 hours. Extra €10 snags you a seat on 1st class.

6. Barcelona to Madrid by €9 with Ouigo Spain

Low-cost, high speed rail service revolution comes to spain.

Last summer ( 2021) Ouigo brought their unique low-cost train services to Spain. From May 2021, Ouigo started offering a 5 times a day, daily return service between Barcelona and Madrid. The service also serves the cities of Zaragoza and Tarragona.

Simple search on Ouigo website, reveals a bunch of the bargain €9 fares on the Barcelona to Madrid route for dates in June and July 2021. Ouigo applies low cost airline dynamic pricing so the sooner you book, the better the fares so keep that in mind.

Worth noting that for the basic €9 fare, passengers can bring a small bag/ handbag and a carry on cabin sized luggage. If you have a rucksack or suitcase, there is an extra €5 fee.

7. Stockholm to Gothenburg with Flixtrain for €12.99

If Sweden is on your itinerary and you are planning to travel between the two main cities, Stockholm and Gothenburg, have a look at Flixtrain who offer fares for as little as €12.99/135 kronor between Stockholm and Gothenburg. To give you a comparison, main operator in Sweden SJ offer fares of 194 kronor/ €18.60 so you make a big saving.

8. Berlin to Frankfurt for €9.99 with Flixtrain Germany

Flixtrain also operates on a number of routes in Germany and is the main competitor to Deutsche Bahn. Frequency is less and they operate on a handful of routes but their fares are much cheaper.

To give you an idea, fares with Flixtrain cost as little as €4.99 from Hamburg to Berlin ( Journey time 2 hours 39 minutes ) €9.99 Berlin to Stuttgart ( Journey time 5.56 hours ) and €9.99-Berlin to Frankfurt ( 4.09 hours )

9. Deutsche Bahn Länder ticket/ Regional day tickets

Unlimited train travel across any of germany’s 16 federal states for as little as €22.

If you are visiting Germany, especially with your partner or a group of friends, another brilliant deal is the Lander regional tickets which offer you unlimited travel within the state for as little as €22. This ticket is valid only on local and regional trains and excludes the faster ICE/IC trains. You can travel with up to four fellow passengers per ticket for as little as EUR 3 per additional passenger.

The tickets are valid from Monday to Friday from 09:00 until 03:00 on the following day.

We used this ticket when visiting Munich last year for a day trip to Zugspitze, beautiful Lake Eibsee and Garmisch Partenkirchen.

The other great thing worth remembering is that you can buy these tickets on the day from any Deutsche Bahn ticket machine in the train station.

10. Paris to Vienna for €60 with Nightjet train service

Night trains in europe a great way to save money on accommodation plus time if you are on tight itinerary.

If you are on a tight budget and travelling between countries, I would highly recommend looking into booking an overnight sleeper train to help you save money on 1 nights accommodation and also you are not wasting the whole day in a train.

For example you can travel from Paris to Vienna on the Nightjet service. It leaves Gare de l’Est at 6.58pm and reaches Vienna at 10.12am in the morning.

The basic fare for a seat in a 6 seat compartment carriage is €60. From the picture above, as you can see, not the most comfortable seat to be cooped up and try and sleep.

I f you are on a tight budget, it will get you from A to B. If you splurge on a couchette , you pay an extra €20 which might be worth the investment if it means getting a decent night sleep.

I’ve taken the Caledonian Sleeper from London to Edinburgh and also the Helsinki to Kolari ( Prices start from €49 for private cabin and with shower, €69 ) overnight train on my way to the 7 Fells Hostel in Finnish Lapland- ( Read more about my trip to Finnish Lapland here ) great way to travel and the journey itself is an experience that will remember.

Other great services on Nightjet train worth keeping an eye include the Munich to Zagreb service ( leaves Munich at 23.20pm and reaches Zagreb at 8.32am) -booking in advance, you get a seat in the compartment for as little as €29.90 or for an extra €45 on top, you can get a sleeper bed.

11. Buy a Eurail pass

The first entry on my first Interrail pass from 2012: ICE 36, Copenhagen to Hamburg, The journey begins…

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Hi I am Kash aka the BudgetTraveller I'm the Luxury Hostels guy and for the last 14 years are sharing ways of how you can travel in style on a budget. Say hello to me here or on Instagram/Twitter. Lets connect!

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The fiction & reality of Kurt Wallander’s Ystad

  [tweetmeme] [fbshare type=”button” float=”left”] [fblike style=”standard” float=”left” showfaces=”false” width=”150″ verb=”like” font=”arial”] [google_plusone size=”standard” float=”left”]         It’s a cold wet evening…

NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Insiders reveal best times to visit Europe’s cheapest holiday spot

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Before we get to when to book, there are two months locals say are a definite no-no, if you’re planning a break to Portugal ’s stunning Algarve.

The region has just been named as the fifth best-value destination in the world for 2024 by Post Office Travel Money, making it Europe’s cheapest.

According to the brand’s Worldwide Holiday Costs Barometer, you’ll get more bang for your buck here than anywhere else on the continent, including Marmaris in Turkey and Sunny Beach in Bulgaria , where prices have risen in the last year.

However, after visiting last month, I was toldtime and time again by locals and tour guides to avoid July and August at all costs. Apparently, it’s simply too hot and too busy. 

Obviously the heat hasn’t put people off so far, but one local told us that the area gets so rammed it’s become commonplace to see people queueing up to get into nearby mini-marts.

So, if peak summer holiday months are off-limits, when is the best time to visit this Portuguese jewel?  

Well, according to one of the brilliant guides who showed me some of the lesser-known areas, May is the sweet spot, followed by March, October and November.

It was a recommendation backed up by a second tour guide and, to be fair, these guys should know as they make a living out of the tourist industry.

I met both guides on a trip to the Algarve a couple of weeks ago in March (sensible time to go, apparently!) and can concur that it indeed was a really pleasant time to visit – if you aren’t planning to just flop and fly.

The weather got up to the early 20s, but at times it was cloudy and there were a few spots of much-needed rain – so while it wasn’t the best for sun-lovers, it was perfect for adventurers.   (Again another travel insider said that if you’re thinking of an activity holiday in the Algarve – steer clear of the super-sunny summer months.)

Named ‘Europe’s best beach destination’ in 2023 for the tenth time in a row, the Algarve has 200km of stunning coastline with 88 Blue Flag beaches, ranging from stretches of golden sand to secluded rocky bays.

Undeniably these will always be a major draw for tourists, but there’s plenty more to do if you want a packed itinerary.

Our break was broken up with two contrasting areas of the Algarve – the more relaxed and traditional Carvoeiro, and the busier (but definitely not bustling) modern area of Vilamoura.

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On top of that we took a little trip to the most amazing little tourist spot, Culatra Island, which had an amazing story to tell. 

Inside Carvoeiro

A small picturesque coastal town, Carvoeira combines beautiful sandy beaches with stunning cliffs and sea caves. Praia do Carvoeiro is the main beach, then there’s Praia da Marinha and Praia de Benagil. Visitors can also take a boat tour to get up close to the magical ‘grottos’ carved into the coastline, or take a walk along the top, as I did. 

Called the Seven Hanging Valleys, due to the sea-made indents in the cliffs, the trail spans around eight miles, although our tour covered just half of that, as our guide Fábio Rodrigues, kindly incorporated a hotel finish into our walk, as it was nestled into the cliffside alongside one of the many caves. 

The trek was organised by Algarfun , as we walked along the clifftops, Fabio told all about how the coves were formed by the sea and rainfall and shown various sinkholes along the way. Some would end up creating yet another cove, while others stood starkly as a simple reminder of the power of nature. 

It was a stunning but rocky walk with some ups and downs, so for those who aren’t fans of a bit of legwork, further along the coastline you can also take a trip along the very safe boardwalk, which offers the same glorious views, which also takes you into the town. 

There are plenty of places to eat and drink in Carvoeiro, too. As we went in early spring there wasn’t really an issue finding a table, but as the months warm up, even a small town like this attracts the crowds, so book ahead. There’s also plenty of shops to mooch in, especially if you’re after some of local cork and leather goodies. 

Discover Vilamoura

If you love a bit of luxury-yacht spotting, this is the place to be as it boasts one of the largest marinas in Portugal and is filled with so many envy-enducing mega-fancy boats. 

It’s also home to a bustling hub of activity day and night, whether you want to take a stroll around the shops or restaurants or a trip to some beautifully sandy beaches, such as Praia da Marina and Praia da Falésia, where you can just chill or do something a bit more adventurous like jet skiing and parasailing .

The Algarve’s secret gem

Culatra is an island located in the Ria Formosa Natural Park, situated just off the coast and requires a boat to get there, which you can either hire privately or take the ferry from Olhão or Faro.

As we took a mile-long walk from the lighthouse in Ria Formosa Natural Park , along the beach, our guide Diana Nunes explained that the island is made up of three areas: one which is home to tourists and locals, another which is the main tourist post and another spot, called Ilha da Culatra, where the president of the island, Sílvia Padinha lives.

Although Ilha da Culatra allows visitors, you’ll not find one Airbnb here, as this place is strictly home to locals only. You can’t even buy your way to owning a place on the island – and plenty have tried apparently. 

It’s no understatement that this place looks like a postcard picture. Colourful old boats line the quay, the beaches are golden and litter-free, while the houses and streets, wihch are surrounded by an array of greenery, carry a beautiful simplicity.

Diana arranged for us to have local fresh oysters with Sílvia, who has been a gamechanger in turning the island around. Home to a small fishing community, she has helped it become a designated protected area due to its ecological significance.

As an oyster virgin, the pressure was on for me not to gag in front of the President if I didn’t like them. Thankfully I was a convert, and ended up guzzling eight of them – and that was before a lunch of prawns, cuttlefish and clams at the local restaurant, followed by a freshly baked pastel de nata from the only bakery on the island. 

Where else to go

Other popular spots in the Algarve include Albufeira, Lagos, Faro, and Portimao, with dolphin-spotting tours and sunset cruises departing from each throughout the busy season.

Faro’s Old Town is a must-see for history buffs, while families can enjoy theme parks like Zoomarine and Slide & Splash. There are also a number of nearby vineyards, where you can sample the local wines and find out how it’s produced.

Weather in the Algarve

According the Met Office, you can average maximum temperatures of 29.1°C in July, with hardly any rain and up 12 hours of sunshine each day during the summer. January is the coldest month, seeing peaks of 16.2°C and 60mm rainfall.

How to get to there

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Regular flights to Faro are available from most UK airports, with return fares in May starting at £37 according to Skyscanner. The most expensive month is August, when a return will set you back at least £103.

Where to stay

The Tivoli Carvoeiro is just a five minute walk from the town centre, but also has the most amazing restaurants if you don’t fancy eating out. The very classy The One restaurant offers amazing dishes such as Guineafowl Casserole and Porcini sponge, while the hotel’s sushi chef serves the most delicious platters (which include up to 46 different types) in the rooftop Sky Bar , which also offers breathtaking views over the Atlantic. 

The hotel has it’s own spa, pool and gym, as did our other hotel, the Tivoli Marina Vilamoura , which offers an incredible couples massages.

A great way to start the evening was at The Argo cocktail bar in the hotel, where the mixologist served magical creations, including the sea-inspired The Argo. Their main restaurant, Pepper’s Steakhouse , is a meat-lovers dream with not only wagyu on the menu but also a brilliant share platter of a trio of meats including lamb, sirloin steak and entrecote. Meanwhile, their beach restaurant, Purobeach , is the perfect place to wile away the hours in front of the sun, sea and sand thanks to an in-house DJ and delicious food and wine.

Nightly rates at Tivoli Marina Vilamoura Algarve Resort start from 300 Euros per night based on two sharing a Superior Marina View Room with breakfast. 

Nightly rates at Tivoli Carvoeiro Algarve Resort start from 225 Euros per night, based on two sharing a Superior Room with breakfast. 

To book visit  www.tivolihotels.com

For more information about visiting the Algarve click here .

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