Europe is often seen as a dream destination for travelers — but is not always easy to find Cheap Places to Visit in Europe. The good news? You don’t need to drain your savings to explore the continent. With the right planning, you can discover incredible destinations that are rich in culture, beauty, and adventure — all without breaking the bank.
Whether you’re a student backpacking through summer, a remote worker looking for budget-friendly cities, or a family seeking an affordable escape, this list of the 12 cheap places to visit in Europe has you covered.
From charming medieval towns to coastal gems and off-the-beaten-path capitals, here are the best destinations to stretch your euro while still having the time of your life.
- 1. Sofia, Bulgaria
- 2. Kraków, Poland
- 3. Porto, Portugal
- 4. Belgrade, Serbia
- 5. Tirana, Albania
- 6. Budapest, Hungary
- 7. Vilnius, Lithuania
- 8. Sarajevo, Bosnia & Herzegovina
- 9. Mostar, Bosnia & Herzegovina
- 10. Kaunas, Lithuania
- 11. Granada, Spain
- 12. Pécs, Hungary
1. Sofia, Bulgaria
💶 Daily Budget: €30–€50
📍 Why it’s great: Amazing value, stunning churches, and Balkan cuisine
Sofia might just be Europe’s best-kept budget secret. The Bulgarian capital is not only incredibly affordable, but also full of history, culture, and charm. You can wander through ancient Roman ruins, admire the gold-domed Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, and enjoy hearty meals for under €10.
Public transport is cheap and efficient, and there are plenty of free walking tours that introduce you to the city’s layered history. From open-air markets to art galleries, Sofia offers a perfect mix of old and new.
If you’re searching for cheap places to travel in Europe that still offer rich experiences, Sofia should be high on your list.
2. Kraków, Poland
💶 Daily Budget: €35–€55
📍 Why it’s great: Beautiful architecture, rich WWII history, cheap beer
Kraków is one of those cities that feels like it should cost more than it does. With its stunning Old Town, fairytale castles, and cultural depth, it rivals cities like Prague and Vienna — but at a fraction of the cost.
A full meal at a traditional Polish milk bar might set you back just €5–€8, and you can stay in a central hostel or budget hotel for under €30 per night. Entry to museums and cultural sites is also cheap, with many offering student discounts.
Kraków is definitely one of the 12 cheap places to visit in Europe that delivers beyond its price tag.
3. Porto, Portugal
💶 Daily Budget: €40–€65
📍 Why it’s great: Ocean views, wine tours, tiled streets, pastel charm
Often overshadowed by Lisbon, Porto is a coastal gem that’s easy on the eyes — and your wallet. Nestled along the Douro River, Porto is known for its colorful architecture, affordable seafood, and of course, its world-famous Port wine.
You can take a scenic boat ride for less than €15, explore wine cellars with free tastings, and enjoy fresh bacalhau or grilled sardines for just a few euros. The city’s tram and metro systems are inexpensive, and walking is always an option with those epic city views.
Looking for affordable places to visit in Europe with great food and scenery? Porto is your go-to.
4. Belgrade, Serbia
💶 Daily Budget: €25–€45
📍 Why it’s great: Dynamic nightlife, rich history, and low prices
If you want to experience the Balkan spirit on a budget, Belgrade is a top contender. Serbia’s capital is a gritty-meets-hip destination where the Sava and Danube rivers meet, and where prices are delightfully low for travelers.
Explore the Kalemegdan Fortress, cruise the rivers, and enjoy some of the most vibrant nightlife in Europe — all for much less than you’d pay in Western capitals. A beer costs around €2, and a local dinner might only set you back €6–€10.
Belgrade is undeniably one of the best cheap travel destinations in Europe if you’re into energy, edge, and authenticity.
5. Tirana, Albania
💶 Daily Budget: €25–€40
📍 Why it’s great: Colorful buildings, underrated food scene, friendly locals
Tirana is quirky, colorful, and full of surprises. Albania’s capital is still flying under the radar for many travelers, but that’s exactly what makes it such a treasure. It’s affordable, walkable, and full of personality — from its pastel-painted buildings to its street art and lively cafés.
The local cuisine is delicious and diverse, with Mediterranean and Balkan influences, and you can find hearty meals for just a few euros. Day trips to nearby mountains or the coast are also cheap and easy to arrange.
If you want something different from the usual tourist trail, Tirana is one of the best cheap places to visit in Europe for the adventurous traveler.
6. Budapest, Hungary
💶 Daily Budget: €35–€60
📍 Why it’s great: Thermal baths, castle views, ruin bars, and great eats
Budapest is a perennial favorite for budget travelers — and for good reason. This stunning city is split by the Danube River into Buda and Pest, each side offering its own unique vibe and views.
Thermal baths like Széchenyi cost under €20 for a full day of soaking, while hearty Hungarian food like goulash and langos is both tasty and cheap. Don’t miss the quirky ruin bars or a sunset from Fisherman’s Bastion (free!).
It’s not just affordable — it’s also one of the most photogenic cities in Europe. A must for any list of cheap places to travel in Europe.
7. Vilnius, Lithuania
💶 Daily Budget: €30–€50
📍 Why it’s great: Baroque beauty, quirky art, and a chilled-out atmosphere
Vilnius, Lithuania’s capital, often flies under the radar — but it’s one of the most affordable places to visit in Europe with serious fairytale vibes. Wander through the UNESCO-listed Old Town, explore quirky neighborhoods like Užupis (a self-declared republic of artists!), and enjoy hearty Eastern European dishes for under €10.
Public transportation is efficient and inexpensive, but much of the city can be explored on foot. Budget accommodations and hostels are widely available, and many museums offer free entry on certain days.
If you’re searching for cheap places to travel in Europe with fewer crowds and plenty of character, Vilnius is a fantastic pick.
8. Sarajevo, Bosnia & Herzegovina
💶 Daily Budget: €25–€40
📍 Why it’s great: East-meets-West culture, beautiful mosques, mountain views
Sarajevo is a city of resilience, charm, and unexpected beauty. With its Ottoman-influenced architecture, local coffee culture, and friendly locals, it’s a place that stays with you long after you leave.
Street food and traditional meals are super affordable — think €5 or less for ćevapi or burek. The old bazaar (Baščaršija) is the perfect place to get lost in time, and nearby mountain hikes or cable car rides are cheap and scenic.
For travelers seeking authenticity and warmth, Sarajevo is undoubtedly one of the best 12 cheap places to visit in Europe.
9. Mostar, Bosnia & Herzegovina
🌡️ Average June Temperature: 27°C (81°F)
💶 Daily Budget: €20–€40
📍 Why it’s great: Stunning architecture, riverside charm, and unbeatable value
Mostar is one of the most picturesque and cheap places to visit in Europe — and a gem that still flies under many travelers’ radar. Its star attraction, the iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge), is more than just a photo-op; it’s a symbol of cultural connection and resilience.
Wander through cobbled alleys, browse traditional markets, and soak in the views of the turquoise Neretva River. June brings warm weather and a vibrant energy to the city, perfect for sipping strong Bosnian coffee in an outdoor café or catching cliff divers in action.
Affordable and full of soul, Mostar is ideal for travelers seeking cheap travel destinations in Europe without sacrificing experience. Think €6 meals, budget-friendly stays, and authentic cultural encounters — all in one breathtaking setting.
10. Kaunas, Lithuania
💶 Daily Budget: €25–€45
📍 Why it’s great: Charming Old Town, street art, and fantastic value
If you’re hunting for cheap places to visit in Europe with a mix of culture, history, and affordability, Kaunas deserves a spot on your list. Often overshadowed by Vilnius, this Lithuanian gem offers a quieter, more budget-conscious alternative — without sacrificing charm.
Kaunas is known for its beautifully preserved Old Town, quirky museums (like the Devils’ Museum), and an impressive street art scene. You can explore historic castles, river walks, and even some Soviet architecture without the crowds or high prices.
Food and transport are inexpensive — a meal at a cozy local spot might only cost €5–€7, and a coffee is often under €2. It’s a solid pick for cheap travel destinations in Europe, especially if you’re interested in Eastern European culture with fewer tourists and more character.
Kaunas is one of those affordable places to visit in Europe that feels both intimate and enriching. And with Ryanair and other budget airlines flying in, it’s more accessible than ever.
11. Granada, Spain
🟡 Average June Temperature: 17–31°C (63–88°F)
💶 Budget Tip: Tapas come free with drinks, budget stays from €20, Alhambra access from €14
Tucked at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains in southern Spain, Granada is a dream for travelers looking to stretch their euros. The city is best known for the breathtaking Alhambra Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with Moorish architecture, gardens, and rich history. But beyond the monuments, Granada delivers serious value.
You can enjoy free tapas with every drink order — yes, really — making it one of the cheap places to travel in Europe where eating out won’t crush your budget. The student population keeps the city lively and affordable, with countless cafés, flamenco bars, and sunset viewpoints that won’t cost a dime.
Granada offers that rare mix of stunning sights, cultural depth, and wallet-friendly charm — a true gem for travelers seeking affordable places to visit in Europe.
12. Pécs, Hungary
🟢 Average June Temperature: 20–26°C (68–79°F)
💶 Budget Tip: Street food and cafés from €5, train from Budapest under €10
Tucked away in southern Hungary, Pécs is a hidden cultural gem that blends Roman ruins, Ottoman mosques, and a vibrant student vibe. It’s a dream for history buffs and architecture lovers — all at a fraction of the cost of more well-known European cities.
Climb the Pécs TV Tower for a panoramic view over the city, visit the early Christian burial chambers (a UNESCO site!), and enjoy the laid-back café culture with a glass of local Villány wine.
Pécs is proof that cheap places to travel in Europe can still offer world-class experiences — without the crowds or costs.
Affordable Travel Across Europe Is Possible
From the colorful tiled alleys of Porto to the historic charm of Mostar and the creative pulse of Tirana, these destinations prove that affordable places to visit in Europe aren’t just possible — they’re some of the most rewarding. Whether you’re into old-world architecture, vibrant street scenes, or stunning nature escapes, you don’t need to empty your wallet to experience Europe’s magic.
These 12 cheap places to visit in Europe show that budget travel doesn’t mean cutting corners on culture, cuisine, or adventure. In fact, by stepping off the beaten path, you’ll likely discover a deeper connection to the places and people — and that’s what travel’s all about.
So if you’re dreaming of your next getaway, remember: the best memories often come from the cheap travel destinations Europe quietly keeps secret.
Enjoyed these tips? Click here for our 13 Best Places to Visit in Europe in June and plan your next escape!
