Europe stands out as an ideal travel destination with its rich cultural heritage, variety of delectable food, architectural marvels, and picturesque landscapes. Its diversity, beauty, and charm invite travelers to come back again.
However, in this post-pandemic era, flight costs have increased dramatically, and inflation has led to a rise in the cost of living. These factors may make holidaying in Europe more costly as travelers may have to fork out more for hotels, transport, and dining. Finding budget-friendly destinations can help you enjoy amazing European destinations without having to compromise on the experiences. Read on to learn more about the cheapest European countries to visit!
Criteria for Determining Affordability
When looking for cheap places to travel, consider the following points:
Accommodation
The variety of accommodation options available is a key factor in determining affordability. Consider if there are hostels, budget hotels, guesthouses, and options for short-term rentals on websites like Airbnb. Some destinations also permit camping in certain areas if you are very low on budget.
Transportation
Destinations with well-established public transport systems will be more affordable. Think about the places you want to visit, especially if they are located outside of the city, and if there are buses or trains to get there. Sometimes, it may be more affordable to go on a day tour as the transport costs will be split among other travelers.
In some countries, it may be cheaper to drive yourself around, especially if you’re traveling to the countryside or between cities.
There are also affordable inter-city and inter-country bus services run by private operators. Check if the cities you’re planning to visit are on the list of destinations they travel to. There are also plenty of budget airlines that operate across Europe that you can take advantage of if you’re planning to visit multiple destinations.
You can also get a Eurail pass, which is a cost-effective option for non-EU residents planning on long-term travel across several countries. Booking in advance can also help you benefit from significant cost savings.
Attractions
When deciding on cheap places to visit in Europe, do some research on whether there are entrance fees for the attractions. For example, in some destinations, you will need to pay a fee to enter museums, churches, castles, parks, and natural wonders. At some destinations, you may enjoy free entrance to such places, or the fees may be nominal.
Flights
Another point for consideration is the availability of flights to the destination. Some destinations may be harder to get to and require two or more layovers. In such situations, the flights may be more costly than direct flights or journeys with one stopover.
Food and dining
The availability of affordable dining options can significantly impact the overall cost of your trip. Eating out in some destinations can be costly if there are only mostly restaurants in the city. Other places may have street food vendors or cafes within supermarkets, which offer more budget-friendly meals
If you’re renting an apartment, you can consider cooking some simple meals with groceries from the supermarket. Some supermarkets also sell pre-packed meals, which you may only need to heat up in the microwave.
Top 5 Cheapest European Countries to Visit
Check out the cheapest countries in Europe to visit on your next holiday and get inspired for your own cheap Europe trips:
Romania
A hidden gem in Eastern Europe, Romania is home to many magnificent castles, charming old towns, tantalising regional dishes, and breathtaking natural landscapes. Its accessibility and inexpensiveness make it an ideal destination for travelers looking for novel experiences.
Accommodation
If you’re looking to stay in a hotel, a mid-range hotel room will cost anywhere from USD50 to USD85 per night, while budget rooms will cost USD32 upwards. You can also stay in a hostel for as little as $10 a night. There are also options to stay in guesthouses while sightseeing in the countryside.
You can also explore options on Airbnb in cities like Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, or Brasov averaging between $25 and $65 per night depending on the location and amenities.
Food and Dining
Romanian cuisine is hearty and flavorful. Enjoy various stews, sausages, local cheeses, cured meats, and cabbage rolls in Romania. A meal at a casual restaurant would typically cost $9 to $12.
Transportation
If you’re travelling long distances across Romania, it’s best to take internal flights. For example, if you want to travel from Cluj-Napoca to Bucharest, the most convenient and cheapest way would be by flight. It would cost approximately $50 to travel over 450 km, and it would only take 45 minutes. Taking an internal flight would help you save time so that you can see as much of Romania as possible during your trip.
You can also travel around Romania by train and marvel at the captivating landscapes along the way, including the mountains and countryside. However, the railway infrastructure is relatively underdeveloped, with no major improvements since the 1960s. This means the trains travel slowly and may experience breakdowns. The trains may also lack facilities, and the toilets may not be well-maintained. However, the cost of traveling by train is relatively low and you can access most parts of the country as all cities, small towns, and villages have railway stations.
There’s also the option of taking public buses if you’re traveling within the city. The tickets are very cheap, and buses usually depart from stations near the city’s train station. If you want to travel to other cities by bus, you can take the maxi-taxis, which are small, bus-like vehicles.
Top attractions
Romania’s capital, Bucharest, is a scenic city with its ancient churches and monasteries, lakes, gardens, and museums. Another key attraction is Bran Castle, which is better known as Dracula’s Castle. A medieval stronghold in the Transylvanian Alps, the castle is now a museum showcasing art pieces and furniture collected by Queen Maria.
You can also explore Peles Castle in the picturesque town of Sinaia, climb up the Poenari Citadel, or visit the beautiful city of Brașov. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sighişoara Citadel, which is the only inhabited medieval fortress in Southeast Europe.
Additional tips
Like many other countries in Eastern Europe, Romania has its own currency called RON, or informally as Lei. Even if prices are shown in Euro, cash payments in Euro will not be accepted.
Make sure to have enough cash with you when travelling in rural areas, as some guesthouses or restaurants in the countryside may not accept card payments. Euros, US dollars, UK pounds, and Swiss francs are the easiest currencies to convert to Lei. Avoid changing your money at the airport or banks, as exchange bureaus offer better rates and don’t charge any fees.
Note that tipping is a common practice in Romania, and it’s advised to tip 10% on top of the bill.
Albania
A Balkan nation with long stretches of turquoise waters, Albania is an underrated but up-and-coming destination in Europe. Almost three quarters of Albania is mountainous, making it the perfect location for hiking. Albania is also one of the cheapest European countries to visit, beating neighbouring countries such as Croatia, Italy, and Greece. Even though the country is still not very developed, it has plenty of exciting experiences to offer for travelers on a budget.
Accommodation
The accommodation costs will vary depending on whether you’re in the city, a touristy area, or the countryside. A mid-range apartment or hotel in the capital will set you back $45 to $55 a night, while a hostel bed is typically from $15 onwards. Apart from hotels and hostels, you can also consider staying in traditional guesthouses.
Food and Dining
Albanian food is influenced by other Balkan nations and Turkey, and Italy. You can easily find pizza throughout the country and enjoy traditional Albanian food like hearty stews and meat-filled pastry dishes. In coastal spots, like Saranda, you can enjoy seafood, especially shellfish and octopus.
Local dishes in a casual restaurant will cost you about $7 and upwards, whereas you can enjoy street food for as little as $2.
Transportation
Public transportation is usable, but it may be challenging as cities in Albania don’t have central bus stations. It often relies on old coach buses, and there is no air conditioning on the buses. The buses also do not run on a regular timetable, and it may be difficult to find connecting buses.
It may be more convenient to drive instead, but look for local car hire companies outside of the airport as they have lower rates.
Top attractions
Albania has stunning beaches, so head to the Albanian Riviera towns of Sarandë or Ksamil to enjoy a swim in the sparkling turquoise waters. Don’t miss the capital, Tirana, which has a thriving shopping and dining scene as well as historic sights.
For adventure lovers, you can hike up the Albanian Alps along the Valbona to Theth trail or attempt the Peaks of the Balkans trail. Another popular attraction is the ruins at Butrint, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Additional tips
Even though you can arrive in Albania via Tirana Airport, consider flying into a neighbouring country if you plan to explore other parts of the country first. For example, you can fly into Corfu International Airport in Greece and take a short ferry ride to Saranda. This will make more sense if you’re planning to spend more time in the Albanian Riviera.
Even though Lek is the common currency, it’s important to bring Euros as they’re widely used in Albania. Most hotels and guesthouses display their prices in Euros, so it’s better to pay for larger expenses using Euros instead of Lek. There are plenty of ATMs in Albania, even in rural areas, but you will be charged a significant transaction fee of €6 or US$6.80.
Lithuania
Lithuania is a southern Baltic state and is home to incredible forests and lakes, and is steeped in history. It’s one of the best countries to visit in Europe as it has plenty of exciting yet affordable experiences for travelers who are on a budget.
Accommodation
There’s a variety of budget accommodation in Lithuania, with hostel dormitory beds costing $15 to $18 per night. You could also choose to stay in a private room in a hostel or a budget hotel for about $40 to $65 per night. Check out private rooms or apartments on Airbnb, where you can find accommodation for as low as $28 a night.
Food and dining
Lithuanian cuisine revolves around root vegetables, meat, and bread, with some of its famous dishes being potato dumplings, beetroot soup, meat-filled pastries, and cabbage rolls. There are plenty of affordable dining options, with a meal at an inexpensive restaurant averaging $12.50 and a fast food restaurant costing roughly $8.
Transportation
You can fly into one of Lithuania’s major airports in Vilnius or Kaunas from many cities across Europe. From Vilnius International Airport, you can take a bus or train to the city center. The buses run more frequently, while the train runs once every hour. Likewise, you can also take a bus from Kaunas International Airport to the city center. There’s also the option of taking a taxi or using ride-hailing services like Bolt.
If you want to travel on a budget in Vilnius and Kaunas, you can easily get around on the affordable public buses, as the bus network is well-developed in these cities. You can also opt to explore the Lithuanian cities on a bicycle with the growing networks of bike lanes and convenient bicycle-rental stations in several locations.
When traveling between Vilnius and Kaunas, and Ignalina and Šiauliai, taking the train would be the best option. The trains in Lithuania are comfortable, and the prices are inexpensive. When traveling to other destinations, intercity buses are preferable as they’re faster and they link all major cities and towns.
Top attractions
Explore the historic old town and marvel at the medieval architecture in Vilnius, the capital city of Lithuania. Some of the famous landmarks include Cathedral Square, Vilnius Cathedral, and St. Anne’s Church.
Trakai Historical National Park, located near Vilnius, is a treat for nature lovers with over 32 lakes. It is also home to one of the country’s most beautiful castles, Trakai Castle. You can also see the tallest sand dunes in Europe at the Curonian Spit, with some dunes reaching up to 60 metres in height.
If you’re planning to have some beach time during your holiday, head on over to Palanga on the western coast of Lithuania. This location is popular among both tourists and locals alike and affords other activities like hiking and cycling.
Additional tips
If you really enjoy being outdoors and want to minimize your costs, consider camping, which is legal and safe on public land. There are also free walking tours in Vilnius to learn more about the history and culture of the country.
Croatia
Home to over a thousand islands and beautiful beaches along thousands of miles of coastline, Croatia is a destination not to be missed. Its pleasant Mediterranean climate, captivating mountains, and rich history also make it a popular choice among travelers. Find out more about one of the cheapest countries in Europe below!
Accommodation
Hostels are the cheapest form of accommodation in Croatia, and there are plenty of them across the country, from small islands to main cities and even national parks. You can expect to fork out $22 to $28 for a dorm bed in most parts of Croatia, with prices reaching $34 to $45 in more touristy areas.
If you want more privacy, opt for private rooms in hostels, but expect to pay about $68 a night for a basic room in a good location. If you prefer to stay in a hotel, a mid-range hotel in a central location will cost about $80.
Food and Dining
Croatia’s cuisine has both Mediterranean and Central European influences. The inland areas are well-known for hearty, meat-based meals, whereas the coastal regions are known for their fresh seafood dishes. Some of the most popular dishes include risotto made with black squid ink, grilled meat sausages, and fish stew.
Eating out at a cafe or casual restaurant will cost you $10 to $12.50. To stay on budget, consider cooking your own meals at the shared kitchen of a hostel or look for apartments with basic cooking facilities.
Transportation
Traveling around Croatia is inexpensive, as you can take the domestic buses and ferries. The buses are modern and fast, and are often equipped with power sockets, Wi-Fi, and air conditioning. You can also save on the ticket prices by booking a seat in advance. A bus ride from Dubrovnik to Split will cost you around $25, while a ferry from Split to Brac will cost you around $23. A ticket on a city bus will only cost you anywhere from $0.60 to $3.30.
You can also opt to rent a scooter as it will give you more control over your travels and is cost-effective!
Top Attractions
One of the key attractions in Croatia is the UNESCO-listed Old Town, Dubrovnik. With its medieval architecture, mountaintop viewpoint, and scenic beaches, this city attracts over a million visitors every year.
Another place on the bucket list is Plitvice Lakes National Park, which is the oldest and largest national park in Croatia. Also a UNESCO World Heritage site, it has a series of 16 terraced lakes and is famous for its interconnected waterfalls and lakes. You can explore the park using the wooden footbridges and enjoy spotting deer, bears, and birds in the dense forests. Krka National Park is also a popular attraction with nature lovers, with its series of seven waterfalls.
Visit the Dicoletian’s Palace in Split, a 4th-century Roman palace which features ancient temples, courtyards, and cellars. You can also enjoy amazing views of the Adriatic Sea along the Riva Promenade in Split.
Additional tips
If you’re planning to stay in Split for a couple of days, take advantage of the free SplitCard from a tourist information center. You can get discounts on entrance fees to museums and galleries, as well as excursions and restaurants.
Note that Croatia introduced the Euro in January 2023, so the Croatian kuna is no longer in circulation. If you have any old currency, you will need to exchange it at the Croatian National Bank.
Bulgaria
Bulgaria is an Eastern European country that is brimming with culture, history, architecture, and natural beauty. Its easy accessibility from other European capitals via flight, train, or bus makes it one of the cheapest countries to travel to. Enjoy the genuine hospitality of the Bulgarian people and be enriched by all the diverse experiences. As it’s one of the cheapest countries to visit in Europe, plan your next holiday to Bulgaria!
Accommodation
Accommodation in Bulgaria is very affordable, with a bed in a dorm costing less than $10, while you can get away with paying anywhere from $30 to $50 for a mid-range hotel. You can also explore Airbnb private rooms, apartments, and even campsites.
Food and dining
Bulgarian food consists of salads, soups, local cheese, and fish dishes. Try the famous Shopska salad, which is made of cucumbers, onions, tomatoes, and Bulgarian white cheese. Another popular dish is tarator, a refreshingly cold cucumber soup with yoghurt and garlic.
For your meals, you can enjoy various street foods ranging from $1 to $3.50. Expect to spend $7 to $17 for a meal at a sit-down restaurant.
Transportation
The Bulgarian public transportation systems are well-maintained, but it may be a challenge to find up-to-date information online, especially in English.
Large cities like Sofia, Varna, Burgas, and Plovdiv have a well-developed public transport system, and you can use Google Maps to find out how to get around. The metro system in Sofia is also easy to use, and you can pay for your trips with a bank card. You can also take trams and trolleybuses.
The fares are very inexpensive, typically costing between $0.60 to $1.20 per trip. Some cities, such as Sofia, also offer a daily transportation pass that costs $2.30 per day. If you decide to get a three-day pass, it will only cost $5.80.
Top attractions
Bulgaria’s capital, Sofia, is an interesting and vibrant city that’s full of museums, Eastern Orthodox churches, galleries, and restaurants. Make sure to visit Alexander Nevski Cathedral, Sveta Sofia Church, and the Sveti Georgi Rotunda for their architecture, history, and culture.
Plovdiv, the second-largest city in Bulgaria, is also another city that should be on your bucket list. It’s rich in history with evidence of settlements dating back to the Neolithic period. Explore ruins dating back many centuries as you walk along the cobblestone streets of the Old Town.
You may also want to visit the Roman Amphitheater and Archaeological Museum while you’re there.
If you’re an adventure lover, consider hiking up Musala Peak in the Rila Mountains or Vihren Peak in the Pirin Mountains.
History buffs can consider visiting Veliko Târnovo, the traditional capital of Bulgaria. You can explore the Tsaravets Fortress and the Forty Martyrs Church there and enjoy the view of colorful houses perched atop the Yantra River.
Additional tips
Even though card payments are more widely accepted in Bulgaria, it’s still best to have cash with you. Smaller stores and restaurants in smaller cities may not accept card payments. Take note that the Euro is not accepted in Bulgaria.
To save on your breakfasts, eat at the bakeries as they usually have a wide range of inexpensive sweet and savoury pastries.
Tips for Traveling on a Budget in Europe
Explore these cheap Europe tips to travel on a budget:
- Travel during the off-peak season.
- Traveling to Europe during the summer time may be enticing with the pleasant weather, but it will drive up your travel costs significantly.
- Consider traveling during the colder (and possibly damper) months to secure the best discounts on flights and accommodation and enjoy affordable European vacations.
- Choose accommodation with kitchen facilities.
- Opt for a hostel or Airbnb with access to kitchen facilities. Getting your own groceries and preparing your own meals can help you make significant cost savings.
- Choose local eateries.
- Instead of eating at restaurants, get your meals at sandwich shops, pizza parlors, bakeries, and street vendors. You can enjoy authentic, local cuisine at a much lower price this way.
- Use public transportation.
- Fully utilise the public transportation to save costs on travel within the country. Check if there are day passes for more cost savings.
- Go on free city tours.
- You can often find free walking tours in major European cities. This is an excellent way to learn about the culture and history of the city without needing to spend any money.
- Bring a water bottle.
- As tap water is safe to drink in most parts of Europe, bring one with you to refill water instead of buying plastic bottles. This helps you save money and protect the environment at the same time.
Conclusion
Europe is a dream destination with its rich history, magnificent architecture, and stunning natural landscapes. It’s well-connected via trains, long-distance buses and flights, giving travelers many budget-friendly options to hop from one destination to another.
A holiday to Europe does not need to be an expensive one, with several places that you can travel to on a budget. We only covered the top 5 countries to visit in Europe on a budget in this blog, but there are plenty more affordable destinations waiting for you to explore. Planning your journeys in advance, taking public transport, and staying in budget accommodations can lower your travel expenses significantly. Cheap European vacations are within reach, so start planning your next holiday to Europe!
FAQ
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about the cheapest places to travel in Europe:
