Cheap Destinations in Europe
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15 Cheap Destinations in Europe for Budget Travelers (2024 Guide)

Contrary to popular belief, Europe isn’t only about expensive capitals like Paris or London. In fact, many cheap destinations in Europe offer incredible culture, natural beauty, and local cuisine—all at a fraction of the cost.

Whether you’re a student, digital nomad, or simply seeking more value for your money, this guide covers Europe’s top budget-friendly travel spots in 2024.

Best Cheap Destinations in Europe

Sofia, Bulgaria

Why it’s cheap: Affordable hotels, free walking tours, budget restaurants

  • Cappuccino: €1.50 | Hostel: €10–15/night
  • Visit Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Boyana Church, and hike Vitosha Mountain
  • Incredibly cheap public transport and taxis

Bucharest, Romania

Why it’s cheap: One of the lowest-cost capitals in Europe

  • Explore Old Town, Palace of Parliament, and Therme Spa
  • Meals under €5 | 3-star hotel from €25/night
  • Day trips to Transylvania from as low as €20

Tirana, Albania

Why it’s cheap: Off the tourist radar, low local prices

  • Colorful architecture, lively cafés, and nearby beaches
  • Bus rides: €0.40 | Local meals: €3–5
  • Visit Bunk’Art Museum, Mount Dajti, and Shkodra Lake

Kotor, Montenegro

Why it’s cheap: Budget Balkan paradise

  • Stunning fjord-like bay, medieval walls, and hiking trails
  • Great for backpackers and cruisers alike
  • Hostel: €12–18 | Seafood meal: €6–8

Budapest, Hungary

Why it’s cheap: Excellent value for a capital city

  • Free views from Fisherman’s Bastion
  • Entry to thermal spas: €6–15
  • Don’t miss ruin bars and Danube river cruises

Kraków, Poland

Why it’s cheap: Low-cost food and accommodation

  • Visit Wawel Castle, Auschwitz, and Kazimierz district
  • Hostel beds from €8/night | Pint of beer ~€2
  • Safe, walkable, and student-friendly

Sarajevo, Bosnia & Herzegovina

Why it’s cheap: Affordable, historic, and underrated

  • Ottoman-style Old Town, museums, and mountains
  • Cevapi meal: €3 | Hostel: €10–15
  • Rich history, multicultural vibe, and excellent coffee

Skopje, North Macedonia

Why it’s cheap: One of Europe’s cheapest destinations

  • Quirky capital with statues, museums, and bazaars
  • Bus tickets: €0.50 | Meal: €4–6
  • Easy access to Lake Ohrid, a UNESCO site

Tbilisi, Georgia (Note: Technically Eurasia, often considered in European budget guides)

Why it’s cheap: Backpacker-friendly and diverse

  • Mix of Soviet, Persian, and modern styles
  • Wine tastings, sulfur baths, and hilltop fortresses
  • Metro: €0.20 | Guesthouse: €10–20/night

Lviv, Ukraine (Check travel advisories before visiting)

Why it’s cheap: Pre-war, it was among Europe’s best-value cities

  • Rich architecture, coffee houses, and nightlife
  • Coffee: €1 | Hostel: €6–10/night
  • Once safe to visit again, it remains a top pick for budget travelers

Belgrade, Serbia

Why it’s cheap: Lively nightlife and Balkan culture

  • Great value restaurants, river clubs, and free museums
  • Hostel: €10–15 | Meal with drink: €6
  • Walk along the Danube and Sava rivers for free

Porto, Portugal

Why it’s cheap: Less expensive than Lisbon

  • River cruises, wine tastings, and tiled architecture
  • Hostel: €15–20 | Francesinha sandwich: €5–7
  • Flights from major EU cities often under €40

Granada, Spain

Why it’s cheap: Tapas culture and student population

  • Free tapas with every drink in many bars
  • Entry to Alhambra from €14
  • Backpacker-friendly and walkable

Istanbul, Turkey (Partly in Europe)

Why it’s cheap: World-class experiences for less

  • Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Bosphorus cruises
  • Simit (Turkish bagel): €0.50 | Hostel: €10–15
  • Turkish breakfast sets under €5

Pristina, Kosovo

Why it’s cheap: Europe’s youngest country, still off-grid

  • Fascinating history, friendly locals
  • Bus across the country: €4–5
  • Café culture and markets ideal for low-budget explorers

Best Time to Visit Cheap European Destinations

Season Best For Budget Tip
Spring (Apr–Jun) Fewer crowds, mild weather Good for Balkans & Eastern Europe
Fall (Sept–Oct) Warm, cheaper than summer Best for southern/coastal spots
Winter (Nov–Feb) City breaks, Christmas markets Super cheap flights & stays

Budget Travel Tips for Europe

  • Use buses or regional trains: FlixBus, Omio, BlaBlaCar
  • Stay in hostels, guesthouses, or Airbnbs
  • Eat local: street food, markets, or lunch menus
  • Visit free attractions: parks, cathedrals, walking tours
  • Travel offseason: Prices can drop by 30–50%

Sample Budget (Daily, per person)

Destination Daily Budget (USD)
Sofia $30–40
Tirana $25–35
Porto $40–60
Kraków $35–50
Tbilisi $25–40

These estimates include accommodation, meals, transport, and basic sightseeing.

Conclusion

If you want to travel without breaking the bank, these cheap destinations in Europe prove you don’t need a big budget for unforgettable experiences. From ancient cities and stunning landscapes to warm hospitality and delicious food, these locations offer maximum adventure at minimum cost.

FAQs

Q 1: What is the cheapest country to visit in Europe?

Countries like Bulgaria, Albania, and Romania consistently rank as the cheapest destinations in Europe for travelers.

Q 2: Can I travel Europe on $50 a day?

Yes. In cities like Sarajevo, Skopje, and Sofia, you can cover accommodation, meals, and local transport for $50/day or less.

Q 3: What are the best cheap beach destinations in Europe?

Albania (Ksamil), Bulgaria (Sunny Beach), and Portugal (Algarve) offer affordable coastal escapes.

Q 4: Is Eastern Europe cheaper than Western Europe?

Absolutely. Eastern and Southeastern Europe are significantly cheaper in terms of lodging, food, and transport.

Q 5: What’s the best budget destination in Europe for solo travelers?

Kraków, Porto, and Budapest are great for solo travelers due to safety, walkability, and social hostels.

Also read: Holly Bush Pub Hampstead London: 10 Irresistible Reasons to Visit This Charming Spot

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