Europe on a Budget: Best Cheap Destinations to Visit Now

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Experience Europe Without Emptying Your Wallet

Think Europe is too expensive? Think again! While cities like Paris and London can drain your travel funds, there are plenty of stunning European destinations where you can explore medieval castles, charming old towns, breathtaking beaches, and vibrant nightlife—all on a budget.

From hidden gems in Eastern Europe to sun-soaked Mediterranean escapes, here are the best affordable destinations in Europe that give you incredible experiences without breaking the bank.

1. Budapest, Hungary — The Spa City with Affordable Elegance

Why It’s Budget-Friendly:

  • Stay in a boutique hotel for under €50/night.
  • Enjoy a thermal spa day for just €10.
  • Get a hearty goulash meal & beer for under €5.

Top Budget Experiences:Danube River sunset cruise Skip-the-line entry to Széchenyi Thermal Baths 

2. Kraków, Poland — Medieval Charm at Bargain Prices

Why It’s Budget-Friendly:

  • Stay in a charming old-town apartment for under €40/night.
  • Visit Wawel Castle & medieval squares for free.
  • Enjoy pierogi (Polish dumplings) & vodka tastings for under €8.

Top Budget Experiences:Auschwitz-Birkenau guided tourKraków Old Town & Jewish Quarter walking tour 

3. Lisbon, Portugal — Sun, Seafood & Spectacular Views

Why It’s Budget-Friendly:

  • Stay in a cozy guesthouse with a sea view for under €50/night.
  • Ride the iconic Tram 28 for just €3.
  • Enjoy grilled sardines & pastel de nata pastries for under €5.

Top Budget Experiences:Lisbon Tram 28 tour & historic walking experienceBelem Tower & Jerónimos Monastery entry ticket 

4. Prague, Czech Republic — A Fairytale City for Cheap

Why It’s Budget-Friendly:

  • Stay in a historic hotel for under €60/night.
  • Visit Prague Castle & Charles Bridge for free.
  • Grab a pint of Czech beer for just €2.

Top Budget Experiences:Prague Castle skip-the-line guided tourEvening ghost tour of Old Town 

5. Sofia, Bulgaria — One of Europe’s Cheapest Capitals

Why It’s Budget-Friendly:

  • Stay in a stylish city-center hotel for under €35/night.
  • Visit Boyana Church & Alexander Nevsky Cathedral for free.
  • Enjoy a Bulgarian feast with wine for just €8.

Top Budget Experiences:Day trip to Rila Monastery & Seven Rila LakesSofia city walking tour with local guide 

6. Valencia, Spain — Sunshine & Culture on a Budget

Why It’s Budget-Friendly:

  • Stay in a guesthouse near the beach for under €50/night.
  • Visit the City of Arts & Sciences for free on select days.
  • Eat paella in its birthplace for under €10.

Top Budget Experiences:Valencia bike tour through Old TownPaella-making class with market visit 

7. Bratislava, Slovakia — A Lesser-Known Budget Gem

Why It’s Budget-Friendly:

  • Stay in a riverfront hotel for under €40/night.
  • Explore Bratislava Castle & Old Town for free.
  • Try Slovak dumplings & beer for under €6.

Top Budget Experiences:Bratislava castle & city highlights tourDanube River cruise to Devin Castle 

8. Thessaloniki, Greece — Greek Culture Without the Crowds

Why It’s Budget-Friendly:

  • Stay in a chic boutique hotel for under €50/night.
  • Visit the White Tower & Rotunda of Galerius for free.
  • Savor Greek souvlaki & baklava for under €5.

Top Budget Experiences: Thessaloniki food & wine tourSunset cruise along the Thermaic Gulf

See also: 5 Must-Visit Spots in London’s Winter Wonderland

Final Thoughts: Travel Europe for Less!

Europe doesn’t have to be expensive! These affordable cities offer the perfect mix of history, culture, food, and adventure without stretching your budget.

Book Budget-Friendly Europe Trips Now

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