After exploring 40 countries across Europe, I’ve zeroed in on a few spots where you can get the full experience without a big budget. I looked at factors like low-cost stays, free or cheap attractions, and affordable local eats to pull together eight places where you get serious value. Think beach towns with postcard-perfect views, medieval cities brimming with history, and scenic villages where dinner won’t cost an arm and a leg. Ready to explore Europe’s best on a budget? These destinations are affordable, authentic, and packed with charm.
How to score airline discounts for cheap European vacations
Are you looking for cheap airline tickets for an affordable European vacation? Before going in-depth on the best places for a cheap Europe vacation, I want to share a quick tip on how to save on airfare.
For the past 4 years, I’ve used Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going) to get amazing flight deals. Every week, they send insanely cheap flight deals directly to my inbox. And the best part? It’s 100% FREE!
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However, if you want to be an international travel pro, it’s worth upgrading to the paid version. It only costs $49 per year, and it’ll pay for itself after only a couple of flights. Not sure if the premium is right for you? I recommend trying the free trial. Then, if you find value in it, use my special discount code (JON20) to save 20%!
Cheap European vacations: 8 cheapest places for an affordable trip in 2025
In this guide, I aim to debunk the myth that Europe is a costly destination. Introducing you to eight of its most enchanting yet affordable corners lets you see that bucket list travel is possible on almost any budget.
Today, we will dive into the heart of Europe, revealing lesser-known, budget-friendly destinations. From the sunny, cobblestone streets of Porto, Portugal to the serene, coastal beauty of Zadar, Croatia, we’ll explore affordable accommodations, taste local delicacies that won’t break the bank, and wander through history-steeped streets without worrying about the cost.
Let this guide be your passport to the budget-friendly adventure of a lifetime! Together, we will prove that the real essence of travel is not measured in dollars but in experiences.
And now, without further ado, here are eight top destinations for cheap European vacations!

1. Porto, Portugal
Porto is honestly one of Europe’s best-kept secrets when it comes to budget travel, and I can’t believe more people don’t talk about it. You can actually have an amazing time here for around €55 per day if you’re budget-conscious, which includes accommodation and food. That’s crazy cheap for what you get.
The city’s got this incredible mix of crumbly medieval buildings right next to stunning azulejo tiles and modern art installations. Ribeira district is absolutely gorgeous – I spent hours just wandering those narrow cobblestone streets by the Douro River. The Dom Luís I Bridge gives you killer views of the whole city, and it doesn’t cost a thing to walk across it.
Here’s what really surprised me: the food scene is incredible and won’t destroy your budget. A proper francesinha sandwich (which is basically heaven on a plate) costs around €8-12 at most places. Port wine tastings in Vila Nova de Gaia start at just €14, and honestly, you’re tasting some of the world’s best fortified wine straight from the source. I’ve had €5 bottles from grocery stores that taste better than €30 wines back home.
Getting around is super easy with the Andante card – unlimited metro and bus rides cost practically nothing. Livraria Lello (that Harry Potter bookstore everyone talks about) now charges €6 to enter, but it’s still worth seeing if you’re into that sort of thing. The Crystal Palace Gardens are completely free and perfect for afternoon picnics. Porto Card gives you museum access and public transport for €13-33 depending on how many days you want, which actually pays for itself pretty quickly.
- Read next: UNESCO World Heritage Sites to Visit
- You may also like: Breathtaking Places in Porto

2. Kraków, Poland
Kraków is basically what happens when you get world-class history and culture at Eastern European prices. I’m talking about €30-50 per day total if you’re smart about it. The Main Market Square is the largest medieval square in Europe, and just sitting there with a coffee watching the world go by costs next to nothing.
Wawel Castle is stunning and only costs about €5 to get inside. The Jewish Quarter in Kazimierz has this amazing atmosphere with tons of affordable restaurants serving proper Polish comfort food. I had the best pierogi of my life for like €4 at a milk bar – these Communist-era cafeterias are still around and serve massive portions for almost nothing.
St. Mary’s Basilica costs €3-5 to enter, but honestly, the trumpet call from the tower every hour is free and pretty cool. The KrakowCard (around €40 for three days) gets you into 40+ attractions plus free public transport, which is actually a solid deal if you’re planning to see a lot.
What really makes Kraków special is how walkable everything is. The entire Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so you’re basically getting a history lesson just by existing there. Day trips to Auschwitz are free (guided tours cost about €40), and the Wieliczka Salt Mine is around €20. Public transport is ridiculously cheap – like €1.50 for most rides.
I stayed in the Old Town for around €25 per night in a decent hostel, but you can find shared accommodations for even less. The nightlife is insane because it’s a university town, but you don’t have to blow your budget unless you want to.
- Read next: Amazing Hidden Gems in Europe
- You may also like: Crazy Things to Do in Krakow at Night
- For more reading: Beautiful Squares in Europe to Visit
- Keep reading: Best Historic Sites in the World

3. Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is where I learned that luxury doesn’t have to be expensive. The thermal baths alone are worth the trip – Széchenyi costs around €23-29 for a full day, and Gellért is €22-26. I spent an entire afternoon soaking in outdoor thermal pools while it was snowing, and it felt like the most indulgent thing ever.
The city is split by the Danube, with Buda on one side and Pest on the other, connected by these gorgeous bridges. Chain Bridge and Liberty Bridge are Instagram gold and free to walk across. Fisherman’s Bastion has the best views in the city and doesn’t cost anything – just show up at sunset if you want to see something magical.
Ruin bars are Budapest’s claim to fame, and they’re actually affordable. Szimpla Kert is the most famous, but honestly, any of them will give you this cool post-apocalyptic vibe where they’ve turned abandoned buildings into bars. Drinks are way cheaper than Western Europe.
Food is hearty and cheap – proper goulash costs €5-8 at most places, and lángos from street vendors is like €3 for something that’ll fill you up completely. Central Market Hall is where locals shop, so you know the prices are real.
Public transport is efficient and cheap – day passes cost around €5. Free walking tours are everywhere, and the guides are usually fantastic. Hungarian Parliament tours cost about €15, but you can admire the building from across the river for free. I stayed in hostels in the Jewish Quarter for around €15-20 per night, and the location was perfect for everything.
- Read next: ETIAS Rules Update
- You may also like: Fun Things to Do in Budapest for Young Adults
- For more reading: Fun Things to Do in Budapest at Night

4. Sofia, Bulgaria
Sofia is probably the cheapest capital city in Europe, and I mean that in the best way possible. You can literally survive here on €40-50 per day and still eat well. The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is massive and completely free to enter – those golden domes are visible from basically anywhere in the city.
What’s wild about Sofia is how you’ll see Roman ruins next to Communist-era buildings next to modern glass towers, all within one block. The Roman ruins of Serdica are right in the metro station – you can see them while waiting for your train, which costs like €0.60 per ride.
Vitosha Boulevard is the main pedestrian street with tons of cafes where coffee costs €1-2. Vitosha Mountain is right outside the city and perfect for hiking – the views are incredible and it doesn’t cost anything except maybe transport to get there.
Bulgarian food is seriously underrated. Banitsa (this flaky pastry) costs about €1 and makes a perfect breakfast. Shopska salad with that amazing Bulgarian cheese is around €3-4. Even sitting down for a proper dinner with local beer rarely costs more than €10-15 per person.
I found decent private rooms for €20-25 per night, but hostels can be as cheap as €8-10. The city center is completely walkable, and Borisova Gradina park is huge and perfect for afternoon strolls. National Palace of Culture often has free events, and the Mineral Baths area has this cool Ottoman architecture mixed with Soviet-era buildings.
- Read next: Cheap Travel Sites

5. Athens, Greece
Athens gets a bad rap for being expensive, but honestly, it’s way more affordable than people think. You can see the Acropolis and Parthenon for around €10-20 (depending on season), and that includes some of the most important historical sites in the world. I literally stood where democracy was born.
Plaka neighborhood is touristy but charming, and you can find decent souvlaki for €3-5. The real trick is eating where locals eat – head to Monastiraki for the best gyros that cost practically nothing. Greek salads with proper feta cheese are around €5-7, and honestly, tomatoes in Greece just taste different (better).
National Archaeological Museum costs about €12, but there are tons of free things too. Changing of the guard at Syntagma Square happens every hour and it’s quite a spectacle. Mount Lycabettus has amazing sunset views and you can hike up for free (or take the funicular if you’re feeling lazy).
The Greek Islands are expensive, but Athens itself is pretty reasonable. Day passes for public transport cost around €4-5, and the metro goes straight to Piraeus if you want to see the port. Benaki Museum and National Gallery often have free days.
I stayed in hostels around Psyrri and Koukaki neighborhoods for €15-25 per night. Both areas have great nightlife and are walking distance to major sites. Central Market is perfect for cheap groceries, and the National Gardens are a nice escape from the city chaos.
Street art in Athens is actually amazing – Exarchia neighborhood is full of murals and has this cool alternative vibe with affordable bars and restaurants.
- Read next: Best Airlines to Greece from the US
- You may also like: Best Airlines to Athens
- For more reading: Most Beautiful Places in Athens
- Keep reading: Cheapest Countries to Visit in Europe

6. Zadar, Croatia
Zadar is what happens when you get all the Croatian coastal beauty without the Dubrovnik prices. The Sea Organ is probably the coolest thing I’ve experienced – it’s this architectural installation that makes music as waves hit it, and it’s completely free. Greeting to the Sun next to it creates this light show at sunset.
The Old Town is surrounded by ancient walls and feels like a smaller, more intimate version of other Croatian coastal cities. St. Donatus Church from the 9th century is right in the middle of everything, and Roman Forum ruins are just scattered around the city like it’s no big deal.
What I love about Zadar is that it’s a real working city, not just a tourist destination. Local restaurants serve amazing seafood without the markup you’d get in Split or Dubrovnik. Fresh fish dinners cost around €15-20, and peka (this traditional dish cooked under a bell) is usually €10-15 per person when shared.
Paklenica National Park is about an hour away by bus (costs around €5) and perfect for hiking. Ugljan Island and Dugi Otok are easy ferry rides if you want island time without breaking the bank. The ferries are cheap and give you incredible views of the coastline.
I stayed right in the Old Town for around €40-50 per night in private apartments. Kalelarga street is the main pedestrian area with tons of cafes where you can sit for hours with just one coffee. The city beach isn’t amazing, but it’s free and fine for a quick swim.
Local buses cost about €1-2, but honestly, you can walk everywhere in the city center. Nin is a nearby town with great beaches and costs maybe €3-5 to get there by bus.
- Read next: Most Beautiful Islands in the World
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7. Tallinn, Estonia
Tallinn feels like a fairy tale that somehow costs less than most European cities. The UNESCO Old Town is incredibly well-preserved, and just wandering around those cobblestone streets costs nothing. Town Hall Square is surrounded by medieval buildings that look like something from a Disney movie.
Alexander Nevsky Cathedral with its onion domes is stunning and free to enter. Toompea Castle and the surrounding area give you amazing views over the city and Baltic Sea. The defensive walls and towers are mostly accessible and perfect for history nerds like me.
Estonian food is hearty and affordable – rye bread, black pudding, and local fish dishes cost way less than equivalent meals in Western Europe. Kohuke (this sweet cheese snack) is like €1 and weirdly addictive. Local markets have great prices on fresh produce.
Kadriorg Park is beautiful and free, with Kadriorg Palace nearby if you want to pay for museum visits. Pirita Beach is a short tram ride away and perfect for summer days. Public transport costs around €1-2 per ride, and the system is efficient.
What surprised me most was how digital everything is – Estonia is basically the most connected country in Europe, with free WiFi everywhere. This makes it easy to find cheap restaurants and navigate without buying local SIM cards.
I stayed in the Old Town for around €25-35 per night in hostels. Telliskivi Creative City has this cool alternative vibe with bars, cafes, and art spaces. St. Catherine’s Passage is this narrow medieval alley that’s perfect for photos.
The ferry to Helsinki is around €20-30 if you want to add Finland to your trip. Local beer is cheap and good, and the nightlife scene is surprisingly vibrant for such a small city.
- Read next: Must-Visit Spots in the Baltic Region
- You may also like: Most Beautiful Cities in Europe
- For more reading: Best Things to Do in Tallinn

8. Ljubljana, Slovenia
Ljubljana is criminally underrated – it’s got everything you want from a European capital at prices that make sense. The Ljubljana Castle costs about €10 and includes a funicular ride, or you can hike up for free and pay just to enter the castle itself.
The city center is completely car-free, which makes it perfect for wandering. Tromostovje (Triple Bridge) is this unique architectural feature where three bridges cross the river at once. Dragon Bridge has these cool dragon statues that are basically the city’s symbol.
Tivoli Park is huge and free, perfect for morning jogs or afternoon picnics. Metelkova is this alternative cultural center in former military barracks – it has concerts, bars, and this weird but cool graffiti-covered vibe.
Slovenian food is this great mix of Austrian, Italian, and Balkan influences. Štruklji (rolled dumplings) cost around €5-8 and are incredibly filling. Local wines are excellent and way cheaper than in neighboring Italy or Austria. Open Kitchen food market happens on Fridays and has amazing street food.
The Ljubljanica River runs through the city center with tons of cafes along the banks. Coffee costs €1-2, and you can sit there for hours people-watching. Central Market designed by famous architect Jože Plečnik is worth seeing even if you’re not buying anything.
I stayed in hostels for around €20-30 per night, but private apartments are also reasonable. Lake Bled is an easy day trip by bus (costs about €5-8) if you want to see Slovenia’s most famous attraction. Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle are also doable day trips.
Public transport within the city is cheap, but honestly, everything is walkable. Slovenia uses the euro, which makes budgeting easy, and the whole country feels incredibly safe and welcoming.
- Read next: Hidden Gems to Visit in Europe
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Frequently Asked Questions about Europe cheap vacations
Looking to dive deeper into cheap vacation packages to Europe? Here are some common questions and answers about the cheapest European vacations.
What is the cheapest month to visit Europe?
The cheapest months to visit Europe are typically in the off-peak travel season, from November to March. However, this excludes the December holiday period. Among these, January and February are often the cheapest European travel months.
During these months, flight and accommodation costs are usually at their lowest as demand decreases. You can often find exceptional deals on airfare, hotels, and tours. Many European cities also offer winter discounts for museums and attractions.
While you may have to contend with colder weather and shorter days, there are benefits to traveling during these months. Major cities are less crowded, allowing you to explore popular attractions at your leisure. The winter landscapes can also be breathtakingly beautiful. Additionally, if you enjoy winter sports, this is the perfect time to hit the slopes in mountainous countries like Switzerland, Austria, or France.
However, remember that the best time to visit can depend on your destination and interests. For example, exploring the Mediterranean region in the late fall or early spring with milder weather is more enjoyable.
While traveling in the cheapest months can save you money, planning your trip according to what you want to see and do is essential. Be sure to research the weather, local customs, and opening times for attractions in your chosen destination before you book.

What is the cheapest place in Europe to vacation in?
The cheapest place to vacation in Europe can be subjective, depending on factors like your departure location, travel style, and the time of year. However, a few notable places stand out. These destinations consistently come up as the most affordable due to their lower cost of living, inexpensive accommodation options, and the affordability of food and attractions:
Bucharest, Romania. Known for its vibrant nightlife and rich history, Bucharest offers extremely affordable accommodation, food, and entertainment. Its historic sites, like the Palace of the Parliament and charming Old Town, offer a cultural feast at a budget price.
Sofia, Bulgaria. As one of the oldest cities in Europe, Sofia is rich in history and culture. The city offers some of the cheapest accommodation in Europe, and the cost of dining and attractions is also very affordable.
Porto, Portugal. This coastal city in Portugal is beautiful and less expensive than many other European cities. The food and wine are incredible and surprisingly affordable, especially considering the quality.
Krakow, Poland. Krakow is known for its stunning architecture and poignant history. It offers reasonably priced accommodation, cheap, hearty food, and free or low-cost historical attractions.
Belgrade, Serbia. Serbia’s capital is an emerging tourist destination that offers a mix of Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian histories. Accommodations, food, and attractions are all quite affordable, and the city has a vibrant nightlife.
Lviv, Ukraine. Lviv is a cultural hub with a stunning old town, numerous museums, and the famous Lviv Theatre of Opera and Ballet. The city is known for its affordable food, cheap beer, and budget-friendly accommodations.
How can I travel cheaply in Europe?
Traveling cheaply in Europe is achievable with a little planning and smart choices. Here’s how:
Off-Peak Travel. Costs for flights and accommodations drop significantly during the off-peak season. Avoid traveling in the summer months and instead opt for late spring or early fall, when tourist crowds are smaller and prices are lower.
Budget Airlines and Trains. Europe boasts a number of budget airlines such as Ryanair and EasyJet, offering cheap flights across the continent. Alternatively, consider the comprehensive train network, which can be a cost-effective and scenic way to travel.
Public Transportation. Taxis can be expensive. Most European cities have excellent public transportation systems that are efficient and budget-friendly. Consider getting a city transportation pass if you plan on using public transport frequently.
Accommodation. Choose hostels, budget hotels, or vacation rentals over luxury accommodations. Websites like Airbnb, Booking.com, or Hostelworld can help you find affordable places to stay.
Food. Eating out for every meal can add up. Opt for local markets and grocery stores to save on food costs. When you do eat out, try smaller, local eateries instead of tourist hotspots.
Free Attractions. Many cities offer free attractions, including museums with free admission days, historic sites, and landmarks. Walking tours are often a cost-effective way to explore.
Travel Insurance. It may seem like an unnecessary expense, but travel insurance can save you a significant amount of money if unexpected issues occur.
By being savvy with your money and planning ahead, you can have a fantastic European vacation on a budget.

How can I make the most out of my cheap European vacation?
Making the most out of your cheap vacation in Europe is all about planning, flexibility, and embracing local experiences. Here’s how:
Plan Ahead. Research your chosen destinations beforehand to understand what sights, activities, and experiences you shouldn’t miss. Plan out your major activities, but also leave room for spontaneous adventures.
Use City Tourist Cards. Many European cities offer tourist cards that provide free or discounted access to major attractions, public transport, and even restaurants. This could result in substantial savings and increased convenience.
Embrace Local Culture. Try local foods, learn a few phrases of the local language, and engage with the locals. These immersive experiences often come at a low cost but can significantly enrich your travel experience.
Free and Low-Cost Attractions. Many cities offer free walking tours, and museums may have days when entry is free or discounted. Parks, public spaces, and historic sites often provide fantastic experiences at no cost.
Pack Wisely. Be prepared for varying weather conditions and pack essentials to avoid expensive purchases. This includes a good pair of walking shoes, as exploring by foot is often the cheapest and most enjoyable way to see a city.
Stay Flexible. Be open to changing your plans based on local recommendations or newfound opportunities. Often, the most memorable experiences come from unplanned adventures.

What are some common hidden costs I should be aware of when traveling on a budget in Europe?
When planning a budget vacation, it’s essential to consider some often overlooked or hidden costs that could inflate your budget. Here are some to keep in mind:
Tourist Taxes. Many European cities charge a tourist tax, which isn’t always included in the accommodation price. This is typically a small per-night fee.
Baggage Fees. Budget airlines often have strict baggage policies and charge extra for checked baggage or if your carry-on exceeds the weight or size limit.
Currency Exchange. Banks and credit cards often charge fees for foreign transactions. Additionally, currency exchange centers, particularly those in airports, often have high exchange rates. Consider a card with no foreign transaction fees and use reliable ATMs for withdrawals.
Tipping. Tipping customs vary across Europe. In some places, tips are expected in restaurants, taxis, and for services like guided tours. Research tipping etiquette for your destination beforehand.
Transportation Costs. While public transport is generally affordable, costs can add up if you’re making multiple journeys a day. Look into day or week passes for public transport.
Data Roamin.: Using your phone abroad can result in hefty roaming fees. Consider getting a local SIM card, or check if your carrier offers affordable international packages.
Attraction Costs. Admission prices for tourist attractions can add up. Many cities offer city cards for unlimited or discounted access to attractions.
Travel Insurance. Although it may seem like an extra expense, travel insurance can save you a lot of money if something goes wrong.
By being aware of these potential hidden costs, you can plan better, avoid surprises, and keep your travel budget under control.
What is the best time of year to travel to Europe on a budget?
The best time to travel to Europe on a budget is during spring (April to June) and fall (September to October). During these periods, you’ll find a balance between pleasant weather, fewer tourists, and lower prices on flights and accommodations.
During peak summer months (July and August), tourist hotspots are crowded, and prices for flights and accommodations can skyrocket. Winter (November to March), while offering cheaper travel options, can be cold and wet in many parts of Europe, and some attractions may have reduced hours or be closed.
Shoulder seasons, on the other hand, provide the opportunity to enjoy milder weather and fewer crowds while taking advantage of lower off-peak prices. These periods also often coincide with local events or festivals that can significantly enhance your travel experience.
For example, spring in Europe is a time of blossoming flowers and comfortably warm weather, whereas fall offers an array of beautiful autumnal colors. Both periods are ideal for outdoor activities such as sightseeing, hiking, and exploring cities by foot.
However, it’s important to remember that the best time can vary depending on your specific destination. For instance, Southern European countries like Spain, Italy, and Greece are often still warm and less crowded in early fall, making it a perfect time for a budget visit.
In conclusion, choosing the shoulder seasons for your European trip offers the best combination of affordability, comfortable weather, and enjoyable travel experiences. As always, do your research to find the optimal time for your chosen destination.
