By 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
