Do you want to explore Europe but think it might be too expensive? Don’t worry! There are many affordable places in Europe, called “Cheap European Destinations,” that offer amazing culture, beautiful views, and fun adventures without costing a lot of money. In this guide, we’ll show you some of these cheap places to visit. From old cities to secret spots, these budget-friendly destinations will let you enjoy the magic of Europe without spending a fortune!
Why Choose Europe for Affordable Travel?
Europe has so many amazing things to see and do, like famous landmarks, interesting history, busy cities, and beautiful nature. If you plan carefully, you can enjoy all these wonderful experiences while spending less money. The secret is to pick the right places to visit—places that give you the beauty, culture, and fun of Europe without costing a lot.
In this post, we will show you some of the best cheap places to visit in Europe. These destinations are perfect for travellers who want to enjoy the magic of Europe without spending too much money. You can have a great time and see wonderful sights while keeping your budget in check!
Top Cheap European Destinations
Budapest, Hungary
Why visit?
Budapest is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe! It has an amazing mix of history, culture, and, most importantly, low prices.
Things to see:
- Stunning buildings: You can see amazing places like the Hungarian Parliament Building. Plus, there are many other beautiful spots to explore.
- Relaxing baths: You can enjoy the warm, soothing waters at the Széchenyi Thermal Bath.
Accommodation:
- You can find affordable hostels and guesthouses starting from just €10 per night.
Food:
- Try tasty Hungarian meals at local bistros for as little as €5.
Activities:
- Many attractions, like the famous Chain Bridge and Buda Castle, are free or very cheap to visit.
Prices in Budapest are still pretty low compared to other big cities, making it a great place to explore!
Kraków, Poland
Why visit?
Kraków is a beautiful city with a mix of interesting history and lively modern life.
Things to see:
- Old Town: The city’s well-preserved Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Wawel Castle: A must-see historic castle.
- Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial: This is an important place to learn about history.
Accommodation:
- You can find budget hostels starting at around €12 per night, and mid-range hotels for €30-€40 per night.
Food:
- Enjoy traditional Polish dishes like pierogi for just a few euros at local restaurants.
Activities:
- Many famous sites, like the Main Market Square and St. Mary’s Basilica, are free to visit.
Kraków is one of Europe’s most affordable and charming cities, making it a great place to explore!
Prague, Czech Republic
Why visit?
Prague is a beautiful city full of Gothic buildings, charming streets, and a lively atmosphere. Additionally, it’s one of the best budget destinations in Europe.
Things to see:
- Charles Bridge: A famous bridge with stunning views.
- Prague Castle: An iconic castle to explore.
- Old Town Square: A great place to walk around and enjoy the sights.
Accommodation:
- You can find hostels and guesthouses starting from €15 per night.
Food:
- Enjoy hearty Czech dishes like goulash and dumplings for less than €10.
Activities:
- Visit St. Vitus Cathedral and learn about the city’s medieval history without spending a lot of money.
Prague offers both beauty and affordability, so it’s a great time to visit before prices go up!
Sofia, Bulgaria
Why visit?
Sofia is one of the most underrated and affordable places to visit in Europe. It has a unique mix of Eastern and Western influences, giving it a rich history and a relaxed vibe. Additionally, it’s a great starting point to explore other budget-friendly places in Bulgaria, like Plovdiv and Veliko Tarnovo.
Things to see:
- Alexander Nevsky Cathedral: A stunning church to visit.
- National Palace of Culture: A beautiful building with lots of events.
Accommodation:
- You can find hostels for as low as €8 per night.
Food:
- Bulgarian meals are very cheap, costing around €5.
Activities:
- Many attractions, like the cathedral and the palace, are free to visit.
Sofia is a hidden gem that offers a fun and unique cultural experience without costing a lot of money!
Porto, Portugal
Why visit?
Porto is Portugal’s second-largest city and offers a wonderful mix of history, culture, and affordable living. In addition, you can walk through charming streets, enjoy a glass of Port wine by the river, and relax in the sunny weather without worrying about money.
Things to see:
- Dom Luís I Bridge: A famous bridge with beautiful views.
- Ribeira District: A colourful area by the river to explore.
Accommodation:
- Budget options start at just €20 per night.
Food:
- You can enjoy delicious meals like bacalhau (salted cod) for around €8.
Activities:
- Many attractions in Porto, like the bridge and the Ribeira District, are free or cheap to visit.
Porto is an affordable city that still feels luxurious, making it a great place to visit!
Add also: Budget Travel in Costa Rica
Budget Travel Tips for Europe
Here are some pro tips to make your European adventure even more budget-friendly:
- Use Public Transport: Most European cities have affordable and reliable public transportation.
- Book in Advance: Secure the best deals by booking flights and accommodation early.
- Off-Peak Travel: Avoid travelling during peak seasons (summer and Christmas) for lower prices.
- Look for Free Activities: Many museums, galleries, and attractions have free days or times.
Conclusion: Plan Your Affordable European Trip Now
Europe doesn’t have to be expensive! With a bit of research and the right planning, you can experience the rich culture, history, and beauty of Europe without breaking your budget. Whether you’re soaking in the thermal baths of Budapest or exploring the medieval streets of Kraków, these destinations offer unforgettable experiences at a fraction of the cost.
So what are you waiting for? Start planning your affordable European adventure for 2024 today!
FAQs
Budapest and Sofia are two of the most affordable cities to visit in 2024.
Use public transport, book in advance, and look for free activities to save money.
Yes, Europe is generally safe, but always take the usual precautions like keeping your belongings secure.
You can budget anywhere from €300 to €500 for a week, depending on your destination and preferences
Travel during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) for lower prices and fewer crowds.