The 15 Best Budget Travel Destinations in Europe
If you are in search of budget travel destinations in Europe, look no further as we unveil the 15 best budget travel destinations in Europe. From the mesmerizing city of Prague in the Czech Republic to the vibrant streets of Bucharest in Romania, these destinations offer both affordability and incredible experiences.
With its rich history, diverse cultures, and stunning landscapes, Europe has something to offer every budget-conscious traveler. Whether you’re a history buff, a food lover, or a nature enthusiast, you’ll find endless opportunities to explore and immerse yourself in the continent’s wonders.
So, whether you’re wandering through the charming streets of Prague’s Old Town, indulging in a thermal bath experience in Budapest, or strolling along the ancient walls of Dubrovnik, these budget travel destinations will leave you awe-inspired and craving for more.
Get ready to create lifelong memories, connect with locals, and immerse yourself in these remarkable European destinations’ unique flavors and cultures. It’s time to embark on an affordable adventure that will exceed your expectations and show you that budget travel in Europe is not only attainable but also unforgettable.
Let’s begin our journey through the 15 best budget travel destinations in Europe!
Prague, Czech Republic
What to see and do:
- Explore the magical streets of Prague’s Old Town.
- Visit the iconic Prague Castle.
- Stroll across the historic Charles Bridge.
Take advantage of the Astronomical Clock, St. Vitus Cathedral, and the charming Lesser Town.
Where to stay: Look for budget-friendly accommodations in the neighborhoods of Žižkov and Vinohrady, which offer a mix of hostels, guesthouses, and affordable hotels.
How to get around: Prague has an efficient and affordable public transportation system, including trams, buses, and the metro. Consider purchasing a travel pass for unlimited rides during your stay.
Cost of visit: On average, you can expect to spend around $40-60 per day, including accommodation, meals, and attractions.
Tips for saving money:
- Opt for local eateries and street food.
- Explore free attractions like the John Lennon Wall and Petřín Hill.
- Take advantage of discounted group tours.
Prague is beautiful, cultural, and budget-friendly. That’s why we have included this town in our list of budget travel destinations in Europe.
Budapest, Hungary
What to see and do:
- Immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Hungarian Parliament Building.
- Relax in the famous thermal baths.
- Marvel at the panoramic views from Fisherman’s Bastion.
Remember to explore the vibrant ruin bars and experience a Danube River cruise.
Where to stay: Consider staying on the Pest side of the city, where you’ll find a wide range of budget-friendly accommodations, including hostels, guesthouses, and affordable hotels.
How to get around: Budapest’s public transportation system, including trams, buses, and the metro, is efficient and affordable. Purchase a travel card for unlimited rides or the Budapest Card, which offers free public transport and discounted entry to attractions.
Cost of visit: On average, you can expect to spend around $40-60 per day, including accommodation, meals, and attractions.
Tips for saving money:
- Take advantage of the city’s thermal baths during discounted hours.
- Indulge in affordable street food.
- Explore free attractions like the Hungarian Parliament Building’s exterior.
Krakow, Poland – One of The Best Budget Travel Destinations in Europe
What to see and do:
- Explore the historic Krakow Old Town.
- Visit the remarkable Wawel Castle.
- Express your solemnity at the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum.
Seize the opportunity to visit the breathtaking Wieliczka Salt Mine.
Where to stay: Look for budget-friendly accommodations in the Kazimierz district, known for its vibrant atmosphere and affordable guesthouses and hostels.
How to get around: Krakow’s compact city center can be easily explored on foot. Public transportation, including trams and buses, is also available at reasonable prices.
Cost of visit: On average, you can expect to spend around $30-50 per day, including accommodation, meals, and attractions.
Tips for saving money:
- Enjoy affordable Polish cuisine at local milk bars.
- Take advantage of free admission to museums on specific days.
- Consider purchasing a Krakow Tourist Card for discounted entry to attractions.
Ljubljana, Slovenia
What to see and do:
- Explore the charming streets of Ljubljana’s Old Town.
- Visit the iconic Ljubljana Castle.
- Stroll along the Ljubljanica River.
Take advantage of the vibrant Central Market and the picturesque Tivoli Park.
Where to stay: Look for budget-friendly accommodations in the city center or one of the guesthouses or hostels near Metelkova, a vibrant alternative arts and culture district.
How to get around: Ljubljana’s city center is pedestrian-friendly and easily walkable. Public transportation, including buses, is available for exploring the wider area.
Cost of visit: On average, you can expect to spend around $40-60 per day, including accommodation, meals, and attractions.
Tips for saving money:
- Enjoy picnics in the city’s beautiful parks.
- Take advantage of the Ljubljana Card for discounted entry to attractions.
- Explore the city by bike using the BicikeLJ bike-sharing system.
Ljubljana is a must-visit for budget-conscious travelers as it is one of the best budget travel destinations in Europe.
Porto, Portugal
What to see and do:
- Wander through the colorful streets of Porto’s Ribeira district.
- Visit the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge.
- Indulge in a port wine-tasting experience in the famous Vila Nova de Gaia cellars.
Don’t miss the Livraria Lello bookstore, known for its stunning architecture.
Where to stay: Look for budget-friendly accommodations in the Ribeira district or consider staying across the Douro River in Vila Nova de Gaia, where you can find affordable guesthouses and hostels.
How to get around: Porto has an extensive public transportation system, including trams, buses, and the metro. Consider purchasing a rechargeable Andante card for convenient and affordable travel.
Cost of visit: On average, you can expect to spend around $40-60 per day, including accommodation, meals, and attractions.
Tips for saving money:
- Sample local delicacies at affordable tascas (traditional Portuguese restaurants).
- Take advantage of free walking tours.
- Explore the city’s stunning viewpoints for breathtaking panoramic views.
Valencia, Spain – One of The Must-Visit Budget Travel Destinations in Europe
What to see and do:
- Explore the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences.
- Relax on the stunning beaches of Playa de la Malvarrosa.
- Wander through the historic streets of the Barrio del Carmen.
Take advantage of the iconic Valencia Cathedral and the bustling Central Market.
Where to stay: Look for budget-friendly accommodations in the city center or near the beach, where you can find affordable guesthouses, hostels, and budget hotels.
How to get around: Valencia features a streamlined public transportation network comprising buses and the metro. Renting a bicycle is also a popular and affordable option for getting around the city.
Cost of visit: On average, you can expect to spend around $40-60 per day, including accommodation, meals, and attractions.
Tips for saving money:
- Enjoy a traditional lunchtime menú del día (set menu) at local restaurants.
- Visit museums and attractions during discounted hours.
- Take advantage of the Valencia Tourist Card for discounted transportation and attraction entry.
Athens, Greece
What to see and do:
- Immerse yourself in ancient history at the Acropolis and the Parthenon.
- Explore the historic Plaka neighborhood.
- Visit the vibrant Monastiraki flea market.
Take advantage of a stroll along the charming Anafiotika district and a visit to the impressive National Archaeological Museum.
Where to stay: Look for budget-friendly accommodations in the neighborhoods of Plaka and Monastiraki, where you can find a variety of affordable guesthouses and hostels.
How to get around: Athens has an extensive public transportation system, including metro, buses, and trams. Consider purchasing a rechargeable Athena Ticket for convenient and affordable travel.
Cost of visit: On average, you can expect to spend around $40-70 per day, including accommodation, meals, and attractions.
Athens is a historic city, and there are many things to do. Take advantage of one of the historic budget travel destinations in Europe.
Tips for saving money:
- Sample delicious Greek street food.
- Visit archaeological sites during free admission days.
- Consider purchasing a combined ticket for multiple attractions to save money.
Istanbul, Turkey
What to see and do:
- Explore the historic Sultanahmet district.
- Visit the iconic Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.
- Wander through the vibrant Grand Bazaar.
Take advantage of a relaxing boat ride along the Bosphorus Strait and a visit to the Topkapi Palace.
Where to stay: Look for budget-friendly accommodations in the Sultanahmet district or consider staying in the lively Beyoğlu neighborhood, known for its affordable hotels and hostels.
How to get around: Istanbul has an extensive public transportation system, including trams, buses, and ferries. Consider purchasing an Istanbulkart for convenient and affordable travel.
Cost of visit: On average, you can expect to spend around $40-70 per day, including accommodation, meals, and attractions.
Tips for saving money:
- Try delicious street food like simit and dürüm.
- Visit mosques and other religious sites for free.
- Haggle for a good deal at the markets.
Dubrovnik, Croatia – One of The Ancient Budget Travel Destinations in Europe
What to see and do:
- Walk along the ancient city walls of Dubrovnik.
- Explore the charming Old Town.
- Take a cable car ride to Mount Srđ for panoramic views.
Take advantage of visiting Fort Lovrijenac and a stroll along the picturesque Stradun.
Where to stay: Look for budget-friendly accommodations outside the Old Town, in areas such as Lapad and Gruž, where you can find affordable guesthouses and apartments.
How to get around: Dubrovnik’s compact size allows for easy exploration on foot. Buses are available for traveling to and from the city center.
Cost of visit: On average, you can expect to spend around $50-80 per day, including accommodation, meals, and attractions.
Tips for saving money:
- Dine in local konobas (traditional restaurants).
- Visit the city walls early in the morning to avoid crowds.
- Consider purchasing the Dubrovnik Card for discounted entry to attractions.
Bucharest, Romania
What to see and do:
- Explore the Grand Palace of Parliament.
- Stroll through the charming Lipscani district.
- Visit the historic Village Museum.
Don’t miss visiting the stunning Romanian Athenaeum and walking in the beautiful Herăstrău Park.
Where to stay: Look for budget-friendly accommodations in the Old Town (Centrul Vechi) or the Universitate area, where you can find affordable hotels and guesthouses.
How to get around: Bucharest has an extensive public transportation system, including metro, buses, and trams. Consider purchasing a rechargeable card for convenient and affordable travel.
Cost of visit: On average, you can expect to spend around $30-50 per day, including accommodation, meals, and attractions.
Tips for saving money:
- Enjoy affordable Romanian cuisine at local eateries.
- Explore the city’s many parks and gardens.
- Consider using the shared bike system for short trips.
Sarajevo, Bosnia, and Herzegovina – One of The Underrated Budget Travel Destinations in Europe
What to see and do:
- Immerse yourself in Sarajevo’s rich history and culture by exploring the old town, Baščaršija.
- Visit the iconic Gazi Husrev-bey Mosque and the historical Latin Bridge.
- Don’t miss trying traditional Bosnian cuisines, such as cevapi and burek, at local eateries.
Where to stay: Look for budget-friendly accommodations in the old town or the city center, where you can find guesthouses and budget hotels at affordable prices.
How to get around: Sarajevo has a tram system and buses for convenient transportation within the city. Exploring the old town on foot is also a great way to experience the city’s charm.
Cost of visit: On average, you can expect to spend around $30-50 per day, including accommodation, meals, and attractions.
Tips for saving money: Take advantage of free walking tours to learn about the city’s history, visit local markets for affordable shopping, and sample delicious street food for a budget-friendly dining experience.
Bansko, Bulgaria
What to see and do: Bansko is a charming ski resort town that offers winter activities and stunning mountain scenery. Enjoy skiing or snowboarding during winter, or explore the beautiful Pirin National Park during summer. Don’t miss the historic Old Town and the Holy Trinity Church.
Where to stay: Look for budget-friendly accommodations in the town center or near the ski slopes, where you can find guesthouses, hostels, and affordable hotels.
How to get around: Bansko is a small town, and most attractions are within walking distance. Public transportation is also available for traveling to nearby areas.
Cost of visit: On average, you can expect to spend around $40-60 per day, including accommodation, meals, and ski passes during the winter season.
Take advantage of this winter attraction, yet come to the list of budget travel destinations in Europe.
Tips for saving money:
- Take advantage of discounted ski packages and equipment rentals.
- Opt for self-catering accommodations with kitchen facilities.
- Explore local markets for affordable food options.
Tallinn, Estonia
What to see and do:
- Explore the enchanting medieval Old Town of Tallinn, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with cobblestone streets and historic buildings.
- Visit the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Toompea Castle, and the vibrant Town Hall Square.
- Take advantage of the opportunity to try traditional Estonian cuisine.
Where to stay: Look for budget-friendly accommodations in the Old Town or the city center, where you can find guesthouses, hostels, and budget hotels.
How to get around: Tallinn has a convenient public transportation system, including trams and buses. Walking is also a great way to explore the compact city center.
Cost of visit: On average, you can expect to spend around $40-60 per day, including accommodation, meals, and attractions.
Tips for saving money:
- Take advantage of the Tallinn Card for discounted entry to attractions.
- Explore the city’s many parks and gardens for free.
- Try local street food for affordable dining options.
Reykjavik, Iceland
What to see and do:
- Discover the unique charm of Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital city.
- Visit the iconic Hallgrimskirkja Church, explore the colorful houses of the old harbor, and relax in one of the city’s geothermal pools.
- Take advantage of the opportunity to go on a Northern Lights tour during the winter months.
Where to stay: Look for budget-friendly accommodations in the city center, or consider staying in guesthouses or hostels for more affordable options. There are many affordable options to live in Reykjavik; due to these many features, it’s on the list of budget travel destinations in Europe.
How to get around: Reykjavik has an efficient public transportation system, including buses. Walking is also a great way to explore the compact city center.
Cost of visit: Iceland can be slightly more expensive than other European destinations. You can expect to spend around $80-120 per day, including accommodation, meals, and attractions.
Tips for saving money:
- Opt for self-catering accommodations and grocery shopping.
- Take advantage of happy hour deals at local bars and restaurants.
- Explore the natural wonders of Iceland’s landscapes for free or cheaply.
Lisbon, Portugal
What to see and do:
- Explore the charming neighborhoods of Lisbon, such as Alfama and Bairro Alto, and visit popular attractions like the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery.
- Enjoy panoramic views from São Jorge Castle and take a tram ride through the city’s hilly streets.
- Don’t miss indulging in delicious Portuguese pastries like pastéis de nata.
Where to stay: Look for budget-friendly accommodations in the city center or historic neighborhoods, where you can find hostels and budget hotels.
How to get around: Lisbon has an extensive public transportation system, including trams, buses, and metro. Consider purchasing a rechargeable card for convenient and affordable travel.
Cost of visit: On average, you can expect to spend around $50-80 per day, including accommodation, meals, and attractions.
Tips for saving money:
- Take advantage of the Lisboa Card for discounted entry to attractions and free public transportation.
- Enjoy affordable local food at small eateries.
- Explore the city’s viewpoints and parks for free.
Conclusion
These budget travel destinations in Europe will allow you to explore many cultures, cuisines, and beautiful cities without breaking the bank. From the captivating history of Prague and the vibrant charm of Budapest to the cultural gems of Athens and Istanbul, each destination on this list has its unique charm and attractions to explore.
Following the tips and recommendations, you can maximize your budget and create unforgettable memories on your European adventure.
Remember, budget travel doesn’t mean compromising on experiences. With careful planning, savvy choices, and an open mind, you can discover the best of Europe without straining your wallet. So, pack your bags, embrace the spirit of adventure, and explore these budget travel destinations in Europe.
Bon voyage!
