Europe is often seen as an expensive travel destination, especially with cities like Paris, London, and Venice topping many travelers’ wish lists. But the truth is, if you know where to look, Europe can be surprisingly affordable. There are dozens of hidden places and well-loved capitals where food, transportation, and accommodations come at a fraction of the cost compared to Western Europe.
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These cheapest destinations in Europe not only save you money but also give you authentic cultural experiences, fewer crowds, and opportunities to travel like a local.
A solo backpacker, a couple on a romantic escape, or a family looking for a cost-friendly adventure, this guide will show you the most affordable European destinations where your money stretches further.
Top 10 Cheapest Destinations in Europe for Travelers
Budget-conscious travelers often overlook Eastern and Southern Europe, focusing only on Western hotspots. But this is where the hidden gems lie—destinations that are not only cheaper but also offer more authentic experiences. Below are some of the cheapest destinations in Europe that promise culture, history, food, and fun without draining your bank account.
1. Budapest, Hungary – Gem of Eastern Europe
Budapest is one of the most beautiful and affordable cities in Europe, and it never fails to surprise budget-conscious travelers. Straddling the Danube River, the city offers historic sites, wellness experiences, and a nightlife scene that rivals any Western capital—yet at a fraction of the cost.
- Affordable Attractions: Many of Budapest’s iconic landmarks are either free or very inexpensive. Walking along the Danube Promenade, exploring Buda Castle, or visiting Heroes’ Square costs nothing. Entry to thermal baths like Széchenyi or Rudas ranges between €8–15, a bargain compared to Western spas.
- Budget Food: Budapest is famous for its affordable yet filling meals. Local street food such as lángos (fried bread topped with sour cream and cheese) costs only a few euros, and a sit-down Hungarian goulash meal is usually under €7–10.
- Unique Experiences: Take a night-time cruise on the Danube for under €15 and see the Parliament building illuminated—it’s one of the most magical sights in Europe.
- Accommodation: Dorm beds in hostels start at €12–15, while budget hotels are around €30–40 per night, making Budapest a solid choice for both backpackers and mid-range travelers.
If you want affordability combined with elegance, Budapest is truly one of the cheapest destinations in Europe worth visiting.
2. Prague, Czech Republic – Fairytale City on a Budget
Prague is one of those cities that feels straight out of a storybook, with cobbled streets, gothic cathedrals, and charming old-world squares. Despite being a popular tourist spot, it remains one of the most budget-friendly destinations in Europe.
- Cheap Transport: Prague’s excellent public transport makes it easy to explore without spending much. A 24-hour ticket costs less than €5 and covers trams, buses, and the metro.
- Low-Cost Experiences: You can walk across Charles Bridge, visit Prague Castle grounds, and enjoy the Astronomical Clock show—all for free. For a small fee, you can enter historic landmarks like St. Vitus Cathedral.
- Food & Drinks: Prague is known for its beer, which is often cheaper than bottled water. Traditional meals like pork with dumplings and sauerkraut cost €5–8 in local restaurants.
- Extra Travel Perk: Day trips to nearby towns like Kutná Hora (with its famous bone church) are cheap and easy to organize.
Prague’s stunning architecture and affordable living costs make it one of the cheapest destinations in Europe that doesn’t compromise on beauty or charm.
3. Krakow, Poland – Rich Culture Without High Costs
Krakow is Poland’s cultural heart and a city full of history, from its medieval old town to its role in World War II. It is also one of Europe’s most budget-friendly cities.
- Cultural Highlights: The Old Town Square, with its street performers and open-air cafés, is free to enjoy. Wawel Castle charges modest entry fees, and walking through Kazimierz, the Jewish Quarter, is a cultural experience in itself.
- Budget-Friendly Tours: Krakow is also a base for visiting Auschwitz-Birkenau and the Wieliczka Salt Mines. Tours cost less than €20–25, significantly cheaper than Western excursions of similar scale.
- Food Scene: Traditional milk bars (bar mleczny) offer full, hearty meals for €3–5. Try pierogi (Polish dumplings) or bigos (hunter’s stew) for authentic flavors at very little cost.
- Nightlife: Krakow has one of the most vibrant nightlife scenes in Eastern Europe, with pubs, bars, and beer gardens offering affordable drinks and entertainment.
This combination of culture, history, and low prices makes Krakow one of the most rewarding cheapest destinations in Europe.
4. Lisbon, Portugal – Sun, Sea, and Affordable Living
Lisbon is a warm, colorful city that combines rich history with stunning sea views. It has become more popular in recent years but is still far cheaper than Western capitals like Paris or London.
- Affordable Attractions: Hop on Tram 28 for under €4 and enjoy a scenic ride through Lisbon’s old districts. Explore Alfama’s winding alleys or visit Belém’s monuments at very low costs.
- Nearby Escapes: Take a train to Sintra for €5–6 to see its fairy-tale palaces or head to Cascais for a beach day trip.
- Food & Drinks: Seafood dishes, sardines, and codfish meals cost around €8–12 in local eateries. Don’t miss pastel de nata pastries, usually under €2 each.
- Accommodation: Budget hotels and hostels start at €25–30 per night, while shared apartments on Airbnb can be equally affordable.
- Bonus Experience: Lisbon is a great base for exploring the rest of Portugal, where destinations like Porto and the Algarve also remain budget-friendly.
Lisbon’s mix of sunshine, culture, and affordability ensures it stays on the list of top cheapest destinations in Europe.
5. Sofia, Bulgaria – Europe’s Hidden Budget Capital
Sofia is one of Europe’s least expensive capitals, yet it offers a vibrant mix of history, culture, and outdoor activities.
- Attractions: The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Roman ruins, and the Boyana Church are highlights. Free walking tours in Sofia are among the most informative and popular in Europe.
- Daily Costs: A full meal costs €5–7, and beer is often less than €2.
- Accommodation: Dorm beds in hostels can be found for as little as €8, and mid-range hotels cost around €25.
- Unique Perk: Sofia is located near the Vitosha Mountain range, so you can go hiking or even skiing just 30 minutes outside the city.
This blend of affordability and accessibility makes Sofia one of the cheapest destinations in Europe that’s also full of surprises.
6. Bucharest, Romania – Mix of History and Affordability
Bucharest, Romania’s capital, offers striking architecture, lively culture, and excellent nightlife without high costs.
- Cultural Attractions: The Palace of the Parliament, one of the world’s largest buildings, can be toured cheaply. The Lipscani Old Town offers cobblestone streets, cafés, and nightlife options.
- Affordable Lifestyle: Public transport is very cheap, costing less than €0.50 per ride, and local meals rarely exceed €8–10.
- Nightlife: The city has a growing reputation for its lively and inexpensive nightlife. Bars and clubs in the Old Town are both energetic and budget-friendly.
- Day Trips: Romania’s countryside is easily accessible, with castles like Bran (linked to Dracula) and Peles Castle reachable on day trips under €25.
For culture, fun, and affordability, Bucharest is a must-see among the cheapest destinations in Europe.
7. Athens, Greece – Ancient Wonders Without Overspending
Athens offers a rare mix of iconic ancient history and modern affordability, making it a dream destination for budget travelers.
- Historical Sites: The Acropolis and nearby ruins can be visited with combination passes that cost less than many Western city attractions.
- Food & Drinks: Street food like souvlaki, gyros, and Greek salads cost around €3–6. Meals in tavernas are affordable and come in generous portions.
- Accommodation: Budget hotels and hostels are widely available, especially outside peak summer, with prices from €15–20 per night.
- Bonus: Athens is also a gateway to the Greek islands, where budget ferries can take you on affordable day trips to destinations like Aegina or Hydra.
For travelers seeking both history and value, Athens is one of the cheapest destinations in Europe.
8. Riga, Latvia – Baltic Beauty on a Budget
Riga is one of the most underrated budget-friendly cities in Northern Europe, offering a mix of history, culture, and natural escapes.
- Attractions: Wander through Riga’s UNESCO-listed Old Town, explore the massive Central Market, or admire Art Nouveau architecture.
- Low Travel Costs: Riga is well connected by budget airlines, often offering round-trip flights under €50–70 from other European capitals.
- Daily Budget: Meals range between €6–8, and accommodation starts at €12–15 for hostels.
- Nature Escapes: Just outside Riga, travelers can enjoy forests, lakes, and seaside towns like Jūrmala at minimal costs.
For those seeking culture and affordability, Riga is one of the most unique cheapest destinations in Europe.
9. Belgrade, Serbia – Cheap Nightlife and Authentic Culture
Belgrade is one of Europe’s most exciting capitals for nightlife, but beyond the parties, it offers a deep history and authentic culture at very low costs.
- Cultural Attractions: Explore Kalemegdan Fortress, stroll along Knez Mihailova Street, and visit the Church of Saint Sava, one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world.
- Food: Serbian cuisine is hearty, with grilled meats, soups, and pastries costing only a few euros in local restaurants.
- Nightlife: Belgrade’s bars, floating clubs (splavs), and cafés stay open late and offer some of the cheapest nightlife in Europe.
- Accommodation: Hostels cost around €10 per night, and budget hotels range from €20–30.
Belgrade’s unique vibe and affordability make it one of the top cheapest destinations in Europe for young travelers and culture seekers alike.
10. Sarajevo, Bosnia & Herzegovina – Budget-Friendly and Underrated
Sarajevo is a city unlike any other in Europe, blending Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Balkan influences. It’s still off the beaten path, keeping costs low and authenticity high.
- Unique Attractions: Visit the old bazaar Baščaršija, take a cable car ride to Trebević Mountain, or explore the Latin Bridge, where World War I began.
- Food & Culture: Enjoy Bosnian coffee, burek (meat-filled pastries), and cevapi for just a few euros.
- Affordable Accommodation: Guesthouses and budget hotels are available from €12–20 per night, often including breakfast.
- Cultural Experience: The mix of mosques, churches, and synagogues in one small area reflects Sarajevo’s deep multicultural history.
Sarajevo’s affordability and unique cultural heritage easily rank it among the cheapest destinations in Europe.
Tips for Saving Money While Traveling in Europe
Even in the cheapest destinations in Europe, smart planning will help you stretch your budget further:
- Travel Off-Season: Visiting in spring or autumn avoids crowds and lowers prices for flights and hotels.
- Use Budget Airlines & Rail Passes: Airlines like Ryanair and Wizz Air, along with Eurail/Interrail passes, make travel cheaper.
- Stay in Hostels or Guesthouses: Many offer free breakfasts or cooking facilities.
- Eat Like a Local: Visit street food stalls, bakeries, and supermarkets instead of tourist restaurants.
- Use Free Attractions: Free walking tours, parks, and free museum days can save a lot.
These cheapest destinations in Europe prove that culture, history, and adventure don’t always come with a hefty price tag. With a little planning, you can enjoy world-class travel experiences while staying within your budget.
FAQs
1. What are the cheapest destinations in Europe to visit in 2025?
Some of the cheapest destinations in Europe include Budapest (Hungary), Krakow (Poland), Sofia (Bulgaria), Lisbon (Portugal), and Bucharest (Romania). These cities offer affordable accommodations, budget-friendly food, and plenty of free attractions.
2. Which European country is the cheapest for travelers?
Bulgaria is often considered the cheapest country in Europe for travelers. Cities like Sofia and Plovdiv provide low-cost hotels, inexpensive public transport, and affordable dining, making it ideal for budget trips.
3. Is Eastern Europe cheaper than Western Europe?
Yes, Eastern Europe is generally much cheaper than Western Europe. Countries like Hungary, Romania, Poland, and Bosnia & Herzegovina offer lower prices for food, accommodation, and activities compared to destinations like France, Italy, or Germany.
4. What is the cheapest city in Europe for food and drinks?
Krakow, Poland, and Budapest, Hungary, are among the cheapest cities in Europe for food and drinks. You can enjoy a hearty meal for under €10 and find affordable street food, beer, and traditional dishes.
5. When is the best time to visit the cheapest destinations in Europe?
The best time to visit is during the shoulder seasons—spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October). Flights and accommodations are cheaper, and attractions are less crowded compared to summer.
6. Can I travel across Europe on a budget?
Yes, traveling across Europe on a budget is possible with budget airlines like Ryanair, Wizz Air, and EasyJet, as well as affordable train passes and buses such as FlixBus. Staying in hostels, guesthouses, or Airbnb can further reduce costs.
7. Which cheapest destinations in Europe offer both culture and nature?
Sarajevo (Bosnia & Herzegovina), Riga (Latvia), and Athens (Greece) are great options. They combine affordable travel with rich cultural history, outdoor adventures, and scenic landscapes.
8. How much money do I need per day in the cheapest European destinations?
On average, you can budget around €30–€50 per day in the cheapest destinations in Europe. This includes accommodation in hostels, meals at local restaurants, public transport, and entrance to a few attractions.
9. Are there free things to do in Europe’s cheapest destinations?
Yes! Many cities offer free walking tours, public parks, historic squares, churches, and stunning viewpoints at no cost. For example, Prague’s Old Town, Lisbon’s viewpoints, and Budapest’s Danube river walks are all free to enjoy.
10. What tips can help me save money while traveling to Europe’s cheapest destinations?
Book flights early, use budget airlines, travel in off-peak seasons, use public transport instead of taxis, eat like a local at street markets, and stay in hostels or guesthouses. These tips help stretch your budget further.
