Top 9 Affordable European Destinations for Budget Travelers

Visiting Europe can be costly, but skipping busy spots like London and Paris can help you find cheaper deals. Here are nine budget-friendly places in Europe to check out!

There are several places in Europe to suit all likes and interests, but countries such as France, Germany, and the Netherlands can also push your money to the limit. If you want to visit the cheapest European countries, you’ll have to go outside the box and visit lesser-known (but equally beautiful) places.

Eastern European destinations provide some of the best value for money for visitors to Europe. If you wish to visit some of Western Europe’s most popular nations, planning your vacation to miss peak season is another effective approach to save money.

From our list of the most affordable European countries, pick the best place to visit.

1. Bulgaria

Bulgaria is a budget-friendly European jewel. It is not swamped with tourists, especially outside of the summer season. Even then, everything – hotels, flights, and fun – is significantly less expensive than in the West. Prices drop drastically during off- season, allowing you to go skiing or sightseeing for a fraction of the cost.

The countryside is spectacular. Castles, towns, and hiking trails where the Central Balkan National Park tops the list for great hikes and breath-taking views. They are mostly free or really cheap. Sofia is nice, but other cities with more history, such as Plovdiv, are even cheaper.

Hotels are inexpensive, especially in the off-season. Free breakfast and shuttle services and other are included. 

2. Romania

Romania is one of the most affordable countries in Europe, especially for mountain hikes and countryside excursions.” Even seeing Bran Castle in Brasov might be affordable with day tours or slower trains. Trains may not be the best mode of transportation, but they are safe and inexpensive.

Stunning spots like Old Town and Revolution Square in Bucharest are mostly free or extremely cheap. Rent a bike in good weather or join free walking tours for smaller cities.

Eating out is the way to go here; it’s affordable, with hearty native foods like sarmale and cozonac offered at street stands. Romanian food is a great and inexpensive bliss!

3. Montenegro

Montenegro, which became one of Europe’s newest countries in 2006, is gaining popularity among tourists. Lesser recognised means fewer people and lesser prices. It’s a traveler’s dream: beautiful beaches, UNESCO towns, and parks all at a fraction of usual European prices.

The food is cheap here. Burek and seafood are inexpensive local delicacies. Pizza and spaghetti are classic Italian dishes which are also reasonably priced. Grocery shopping is inexpensive and easy if you’re cooking at your rental flat.

4. Portugal

The best places to visit in Portugal are all about nature and the outdoors, and they are typically free to visit. The Faro District has lovely sands and cliffs, while Madeira’s volcanic trails and stunning harbour draw hikers and divers.

The main expenses in Portugal are food and lodging, however travelling during the off-season (not June to August) saves money. Prices drop considerably between November and February, when temperatures hover around 17-18 degrees Celsius, making it ideal for budget travellers.

Exploring World Heritage sites like Evora or Tomar’s Templar Castle and Convent of Christ is usually free, barring transportation charges.

5. Slovenia

Slovenia, nestled between Italy, Austria, and Hungary, is a mountainous forest-covered country. Its Adriatic coast draws travellers with its inexpensive sandy beaches and plenty of sunshine. Coastal accommodations may be more expensive in the summer, but public beaches are free, keeping costs cheap. Budget-friendly options in late spring include Koper Beach, Mestna Beach, Moon Bay, and Portoroz.

Lake Bled, located just outside of Ljubljana, is a must-see and reasonably priced getaway. Other low-cost options include Piran, Tanjel, and Triglav National Park, which offers day treks like Mount Triglav with overnight accommodations in mountain cabins.

6. Hungary

Hungary, while more expensive than certain Eastern European countries, is far less expensive than many Western locations. Many attractions in Budapest are free, such as walking across the Chain Bridge and touring Castle Hill. Some locations in the Castle area may charge fees, however they are reasonable. There is a “Night of the Museums” in June when several sites are free.

The Great Market Hall is a fantastic place to buy inexpensive souvenirs and Hungarian delicacies. Street food, particularly lángos, is a low-cost choice. Outside of Budapest, locations like Tihany and the Bükk Mountains are considerably cheaper all year.

7. Slovakia

Bratislava, Slovakia’s most expensive city, nonetheless has plenty of free things to do for budget travellers. Small galleries and quirky street sculptures are scattered around the city, making it easy to explore on foot. Trains and buses are affordable if you’re venturing beyond.

Between June and October, Slovakia’s High Tatras, a huge national park with hiking routes, is a free paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. It’s ideal for snow activities in the winter. In Slovakia, all national parks are free to visit. The country also has UNESCO World Heritage Sites, castles, and monuments that are typically free or extremely affordable to visit.

8. Poland

Poland’s biggest cities, such as Krakow and Warsaw, can be expensive, especially in the summer. Aim for the shoulder season, particularly March and April, for a more affordable visit. Famous places such as Auschwitz-Birkenau, Wieliczka Salt Mine, and Schindler’s Factory are less busy during the off-season. Many attractions in Poland are either cheap or free, such as climbing Krakow’s Old Town Hall tower for spectacular views, exploring Malbork’s Teutonic Order Castle, or visiting the old Bialowieza Forest.

Museums in cities frequently offer free admission on specified days, such as Wednesdays at Warsaw’s Royal Castle or Sundays at the Chopin Museum. Trains might not be cheap, but buses, especially long-distance ones like Flixbus, are very affordable, comfortable, and cover even remote areas in Poland with free Wi-Fi onboard.

9. Czech Republic

The Czech Republic isn’t as cheap as it once was, but if you venture beyond Prague, you’ll find good deals especially during the winter months (until late December), when tourism is at its peak. The cheapest months are January and February, with discounts on flights and accommodations available from March to May.

Major sights in Prague are free but part of paid tours. Exploring them on your own with a map saves money. Charles Bridge, the Astronomical Clock, and the medieval-style Old Town Square are all included. Other destinations in the country are significantly less expensive. Even in high season, Cesky Krumlov, Sedlec with its unique ossuary chapel, and the wide trails of Bohemian Switzerland National Park are reasonable if booked in advance.

That concludes our list of the 9 most affordable destinations in Europe for a budget-friendly trip. Deciding on your next European getaway from these wallet-friendly cities can be a bit daunting. We trust our list has ignited ideas for your upcoming European adventure!

Also read: Culinary Paradise: Unveiling 7 Best Restaurants In New York, USA