Are you looking for cheap places to travel to in Europe? From stunning beach towns to vibrant city centers, there are plenty of amazing and affordable destinations that offer a great experience.
Whether you want to explore ancient ruins, take in the culture, or just relax by the sea, these cheap European destinations will help you make the most of your trip without breaking the bank. So, if you’re ready for an unforgettable adventure, here are some cheap places to travel in Europe.
If you’re looking to explore Europe without breaking your budget, there are a few cheap places to visit that provide plenty of sightseeing and cultural experiences at an affordable price.
Overview of Countries
In Eastern Europe, countries such as Ukraine, Poland, and Hungary offer great value for money when it comes to accommodations and food.
Cities such as Krakow in Poland have become increasingly popular amongst tourists due to its cheap beer and burgeoning art scene making it one of the most affordable cities in Europe. Budapest is another cheap option for travelers that offers beautiful architecture and vibrant nightlife.
The Balkans are also becoming an increasingly popular destination with cheap flights from many major European hubs available all year round. Serbia, Bulgaria, and Romania are all great cheap places to visit in Europe that offer interesting cultural experiences.
Southern Europe remains a cheap destination with plenty of beaches, cheap food, and good weather year-round. Countries such as Portugal and Spain have become increasingly popular amongst travelers looking for cheap holiday destinations due to their affordability. The island of Cyprus is also an attractive option with its stunning coastline and vibrant nightlife.
Finally, Northern Europe is home to some of the most affordable cities in Europe. Countries such as Denmark and Sweden are known for their expensive prices but there are still some great cheap options available. Cities such as Copenhagen and Stockholm both provide plenty of sightseeing opportunities that can be enjoyed at an affordable price.
Top 10 Budget-Friendly European Countries
With such a wide variety of places to visit, it can be hard to decide where to go first – especially if you’re on a budget.
Fortunately, there are plenty of cheap places to travel in Europe that won’t break the bank. Here are some top cheap countries to consider for your next European getaway:
1. Bulgaria
This country offers amazing value for money when it comes to cheap places to travel in Europe. You can find low-cost accommodation everywhere from beach resorts on the Black Sea coast to ski lodges in the mountains. Plus, you’ll get to experience traditional Bulgarian cuisine and explore its fascinating culture.
Bulgaria is one of the cheapest places to visit in Europe, with some of the most stunning landscapes and cultures. Located on the Balkan Peninsula, Bulgaria offers a variety of cheap activities that cater to all kinds of travelers.
Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient ruins, taking leisurely hikes through lush forests, or sampling tasty local cuisine, you’ll find countless things to do.
From cheap lodging options to affordable transportation options, it’s easy to explore Bulgaria on a budget.
Visit Sofia for museums, galleries, and cultural experiences or head off into nature and explore the National Parks around Pirin Mountain, Rila, and the Rhodope Mountains. Whatever your interests, Bulgaria will not disappoint when it comes to saving your money while traveling.
- Check out: 10 Best Things to Do in Bulgaria
- Best places to stay: View Places to Stay
2. Poland
One of the best cheap places to visit in Europe is Poland. It’s full of historic cities like Krakow, Gdansk, and Warsaw that offer a variety of attractions, from museums to castles and art galleries. And with cheap accommodation and food options available, it’s easy to keep costs down on your vacation here.
With cheap flights and a variety of accommodation options, you can get some great deals and enjoy a unique holiday experience. Poland has plenty of natural beauty, from mountains like the Tatra Mountains in the south to historic cities like Krakow or Gdansk.
You’ll also find cultural gems scattered throughout the country – from castles and palaces to quaint villages.
Plus, there’s an abundance of great restaurants and bars where you can sample local cuisine at prices that won’t break the bank.
So if you’re looking for cheap places to travel in Europe without sacrificing experiences, Poland is definitely worth considering.
- Check out: 10 Top Things to Do in Poland
3. Hungary
This country offers visitors lots of cheap activities and places to stay for budget-conscious travelers. Budapest is a must-see destination here – make sure you take a stroll along the Danube river or explore one of its many churches and castles. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can also go hiking in the nearby hills or enjoy cheap thermal baths without breaking the bank.
Budapest, the capital of Hungary, offers a variety of attractions such as its beautiful old town, Chain Bridge, Castle Hill, and magnificent architecture.
The prices here are very affordable and there is plenty to do – from visiting historical sites to experiencing local culture. For a cheap yet exciting day out, take a river cruise along the Danube River for some amazing views and learn about the city’s interesting history.
Hungary is also home to a number of thermal baths that offer visitors cheap relaxation against stunning backdrops.
To make your trip even cheaper, find cheap accommodations in smaller towns or cities outside of Budapest and explore Hungary by taking day trips from there.
With cheap food, cheap transportation, and cheap accommodation options, Hungary is the perfect destination for budget travelers looking for a cheap holiday in Europe.
4. Romania
An often overlooked country when it comes to cheap places to travel in Europe, Romania is a great choice for budget-minded travelers.
The capital city of Bucharest offers cheap accommodation and food options, plus plenty of historic sites and vibrant nightlife to explore. If you head out into the countryside you’ll also find cheap outdoor activities like camping and horseback riding available for an even lower price.
With its stunningly scenic Carpathian Mountains, miles of unspoiled coastline on the Black Sea, and history going back centuries, it’s no wonder why Romania has become a popular tourist destination.
The cost of living is cheap compared to other European countries and there are lots of cheap flights available from all over the world. Top attractions include the UNESCO-listed wooden churches of Maramures, Transylvania’s Bran Castle (the famed home of Dracula), and Bucharest with its vibrant nightlife and art scene.
Whether you’re looking for a cheap beach holiday or an exciting city break, Romania will provide you with many places to travel to.
For those wanting to experience true Romanian culture, head to the city of Sibiu for traditional Saxon architecture, churches, and museums.
No trip to Romania is complete without sampling some of its delicious local dishes, such as sarmale (stuffed cabbage) and mamaliga (polenta). So come explore cheap places to travel in Europe and have fun.
5. Serbia
Not only is it cheap to get around but the food and drinks are also extremely affordable here. From cheap flights to Belgrade to cheap accommodation in Novi Sad, Serbia is a great place for those on a tight budget.
From the breathtaking mountains of Kopaonik to the beautiful and historic cities of Belgrade and Novi Sad, Serbia has something for everyone.
Those who are on a budget will appreciate the excellent value accommodation, delicious food, and cheap transport.
If you’re looking for outdoor activities then Serbia won’t disappoint – there’s plenty to do from skiing and snowboarding at Kopaonik to hiking through the stunning national parks.
And if you’re after some culture then don’t miss out on the country’s historical sites like Kalemegdan Fortress in Belgrade or Studenica Monastery in southern Serbia.
6. Portugal
This country has some of the best beaches in Europe and its capital city Lisbon is steeped in history and culture. And with cheap eats like bacalhau (salted codfish) and port wine you can eat well while spending very little money.
From the stunning coastline of the Algarve to the vibrant cities of Lisbon and Porto, there are plenty of options for travelers looking to explore Portugal while saving up on money.
The country’s budget-friendly accommodations, transport, and food make it an ideal destination for those seeking an affordable trip with plenty of sightseeing opportunities.
Some cheap things to do in Portugal include visiting its beautiful beaches and historic monuments, checking out its nightlife scene at clubs and bars, tasting traditional Portuguese delicacies such as bacalhau (dried salted cod) or pastéis de nata (custard tarts), exploring art galleries in Lisbon or Porto, or even hiking in the stunning Serra da Estrela mountains.
So if you’re looking for cheap places to travel in Europe, Portugal is an excellent choice. With its rich culture, beautiful landscapes, and affordable prices.
7. Slovenia
With cheap transportation, affordable accommodation, and low-cost attractions, Slovenia is one of the most affordable countries in Europe to visit. The outdoor adventures here are second to none and can be enjoyed for a fraction of what it would cost in other European countries.
This small, underrated country offers a diverse range of experiences and activities, from skiing in its Alpine mountains to visiting picturesque lakes and villages.
For budget travelers, there are plenty of cheap but comfortable hostels available for accommodation. Additionally, food costs are very affordable, making it easy to save on your vacation expenses while still enjoying delicious meals.
The capital city Ljubljana has plenty of cultural attractions such as museums, galleries, and churches to explore without breaking the bank, so if you’re looking for cheap places to travel in Europe then Slovenia should definitely be at the top of your list.
8. Croatia
From cheap city breaks to cheap island hopping, Croatia is the perfect spot for budget travelers. Whether you’re sailing around the Dalmatian Coast or exploring Dubrovnik’s cobbled streets, there are plenty of affordable ways to enjoy what this country has to offer.
Croatia is fast becoming a cheap destination to visit in Europe. It’s not only stunningly beautiful but also offers plenty of ways to save money while traveling there. From cheap accommodation and cheap food to cheap transportation and affordable attractions, there are plenty of ways to explore Croatia on a budget!
One great way to save money when traveling in Croatia is by staying at hostels or other types of shared accommodation such as Airbnb or even camping sites. You can find great deals for these types of accommodations that won’t break the bank. Additionally, there are many cheap local restaurants where you can enjoy traditional Croatian dishes like cevapi (grilled meat) or burek (savory pastry) for less than £5.
When it comes to cheap transportation, Croatia offers cheap buses and trains that are great for getting around the country. You can also find cheap boat trips from one city or island to another which offer a beautiful sightseeing experience while saving you some money too. Lastly, there are cheap attractions all over Croatia that won’t cost you much to visit. The Plitvice Lakes National Park is a great budget-friendly destination with breathtaking scenery.
Traveling to Croatia is an amazing way to explore Europe when it boils down to saving money.
9. Czech Republic
This nation has some of the best-preserved castles in Europe, as well as cheap beer and affordable eats. Prague is one of the most beautiful cities in the world but won’t break your budget either.
With its picturesque countryside, lively cities, and an abundance of cultural attractions, the Czech Republic will provide you with adventure.
Prague is one of the most popular destinations for travelers looking for cheap places to visit in Europe. Prices are still quite cheap compared to other major European capitals like Paris or London, but you will find plenty of amazing experiences here! From old castles and churches to cobblestone streets full of cafes and beer gardens—Prague is truly magical.
Outside of Prague, there are also many cheap places worth exploring such as Cesky Krumlov and Olomouc.
10. Greece
Despite its economic challenges, Greece is still an incredibly cheap destination for travelers in Europe. From cheap ferry rides between islands to cheap eats like gyros and souvlaki, there are plenty of ways to enjoy what this country has to offer without breaking your money.
Its cities, such as Athens and Thessaloniki, are home to numerous attractions that make the country an ideal destination for budget travelers. In addition to its stunning natural beauty, Greece offers plenty of cheap accommodation options, cheap transportation options, and cheap food.
Not only can you visit ancient sites like the Acropolis in Athens or the Palace of Knossos in Crete without breaking your bank account, but you can also take advantage of amazing discounts on museums, galleries, and other cultural attractions.
As if all this weren’t enough reason to explore Greece on a budget, the friendly locals will be more than happy to welcome you into their homes for cheap meals and drinks.
Thoughts and Conclusion
Overall, cheap places to travel in Europe are plentiful and can provide travelers with plenty of culture, sightseeing, and fun experiences without breaking the bank. Whether you’re looking for a cheap city break or an island getaway, there is something for everyone that won’t have you shelling out too much cash. So start planning your next cheap holiday to Europe today.
You can also check out What are the Best Places to Travel in December and How to Travel in Europe on a Budget for more travel tips.
One thought on “Best Cheap Places to Travel in Europe”
I am from Belgium myself and I realize that living here has gotten quite expensive and tourists here would probably need to be wealthy to stay on vacation here.I have traveled to a few of the countries that you mentioned in this article, and I can confirm that Hungary, Slovenia and Portugal is very affordable! Especially going out to a restaurant and staying overnight. It is weird how much different it can get, even though we are all European.