Which Cities Are the Cheapest to Visit in Europe? Your Guide to Affordable Trips

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Written by S.Castlemilk
Date:

Where can you travel in Europe on a budget without compromising on culture and experience?

The cost of accommodation, food, public transport and activities help to determine what makes a travel destination affordable for mid-range travellers. Having many options is another decisive factor as visitors can have full control over their budget.

With its up-and-coming cities attracting travellers interested in more confidential locations, its many budget-friendly accommodations, spellbinding cultural landmarks, tasty and affordable local traditional food as well as dynamic artistic scene and free activities, Eastern Europe is undeniably the big winner of the top cheapest European destinations. Let’s find out why and mostly, where!

Why is Wroclaw, Poland, one the cheapest European destinations today?

Wroclaw, the Polish Venice, attracts many budget travellers with its architecture, history and low-cost living.

How much does it cost to visit Wroclaw?

Reminder: The Polish currency is the Zloty (zł). 1zł ≈ €0.23).

• An average traveller spends about €39 per person per day on accommodation, meals and transport, placing the city among the most affordable European cities.

→ What is the average accommodation price in Wroclaw?

• A mid-range hotel costs from €44 to €87, depending on the season.
• An average AirBnb accommodation costs around €70.
• The many hostels available in the city also attract budget-conscious travellers.

→ How much does public transport cost?

• Wroclaw has 60 bus lines and 25 tram lines.
• A bus/tram single ticket costs 4,60 zł (€1.08) but prices for a 15-minute ticket start at 3,20 zł (€0.75).

Did you know?

• Passengers over 65 travel for free.
• On Car-Free Day (September 22), public transport is free for everyone.
• On European Literature Night (August), all users carrying a book travel for free!

For more information, visit Wroclaw’s public transport website.

What to see in Wroclaw?

• Popular sites to see/visit include the historic Old Town, Rynek (market square), Ostrow Tumski (Cathedral Island), Wroclaw University and the National Wroclaw Museum, home of the Panorama Racławicka, a 15 × 114-m cycloramic painting. Don’t miss the Nadodrze district’s street art either!

Did you know? One of the most popular (and free) attractions in Wroclaw is spotting the dwarves (gnome sculptures) scattered throughout the city!

What should you eat in Wroclaw?

• Milk bars (bar mleczny) are large cafeterias where you will enjoy copious traditional home cooked meals at a very reasonable price (as little as €5!) but only until 6.00pm.
• Snack and shot bars (Zakąski Przekąski) offer pickled food (less than €2 each) to be washed down with a shot of vodka.
• Traditional food you should try include Żurek (soup), Pierogi (dumplings with filling), Gołąbki (stuffed cabbage rolls), etc.

Don’t leave without us!

• How to apply for a Schengen visa to visit Wroclaw?
• Don’t forget to subscribe to travel insurance for your trip to Poland!

For more information:
Wroclaw official site — The official tourism portal of the Wrocław City Council

Why is Sofia, Bulgaria perfect for budget travellers?

As the capital of Bulgaria, a Schengen state since January 1st, 2025, Sofia offers a wide array of activities without being an expensive destination.

How much does it cost to visit Sofia?

Reminder: Local currency is the Bulgarian Lev (1 BGN ≈ €0.50).

Travellers to Sofia spend on average €68 per day per person.

→ What is the average accommodation price in Sofia?

• Average hotel prices range from €42 to €87 depending on the season.
• Airbnb midrange options can cost from €25 to €70 per night.
• Sofia visitors also have a wide choice of hostels.

→ How much does public transport cost?

• Sofia’s public transport network includes 93 bus lines, 9 trolley lines, 15 tram lines and 4 metro lines.
• Prices for tickets combining ground vehicles and metro range from €0.81 to €7.66.

For more information: Public Transport Sofia Metro

Did you know? Sofia is only a bus ride away from the Vitosha mountains, their beautiful hiking trails and ski resort! Several lines can take you directly to the slopes from the capital’s city centre.

What to see in Sofia and how much does it cost?

We recommend: Start with a free 2h city tour with an experienced local guide (don’t forget to tip!).

• City highlights include Alexander Nevsky Cathedral (free), Zhenski Pazar Market, 6th century St. Sofia Basilica, Banya Bashi Mosque and Sofia Synagogue.
• You can also enjoy the city parks, different markets (including flea and book!), free cultural events and festivals (Sofia Film festival, Sofia Design Week, Water Tower Art Fest).

Bonus info! The free Graffiti and Street art walking tour will help you discover Sofia’s street artists.

What should you eat in Sofia?

• Yoghurt and white-brine cheese are staples of Bulgarian cuisine.
• Local specialities include banitsa, tutmanik, Shopska salad, tarator (cold cucumber soup) ...
• Want some more? Enjoy the free Balkan Bites food tour.

Did you know?

• While Bulgaria is one of the most important wine producers in the world, its national alcoholic drink is rakia.
• Bulgaria abounds in mineral water springs. In Sofia, free mineral water fountains are available in public areas.

Don’t leave without us!

• How to apply for a Schengen visa for Bulgaria
• How to get travel insurance for Bulgaria?

For more information: Sofia Tourist Information Office

Why is Český Krumlov, Czechia, one of the least expensive destinations in Europe?

Located a 4-hour train ride away from Prague, Český Krumlov has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1992. Visitors are attracted to this South Bohemian town because of its fairy-tale charm and affordability.

How much does it cost to visit Český Krumlov?

Reminder: Local currency is the Czech Koruna (≈ €0.041).

• Travellers spend on average €70 per day, including accommodation, meals and transport.

→ What is the average accommodation price in Český Krumlov?

• A mid-range hotel costs €96 to €113, depending on the season.
• Airbnb stays average €75 to €105 per night.

→ How much does public transport cost?

• Most city highlights are within walking distance. Visitors rarely use local transport.
• There are only 2 bus stations in town. Shuttle buses allow you to reach larger cities and even European ones such as Vienna or Salzburg.
• The train station is 1.7 km away from the city centre (≈ about a 35-minute walk).

What to see in Český Krumlov and how much does it cost?

• The old town sits on the Vltava River and encircles a castle with Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque influences. Main sites (some free) include monasteries, St Vitus Church, Port 1560, the three-storied Cloak Bridge and an open-air theatre with a revolving auditorium.

Caution! Bears have been kept in the castle moat since 1707, a tradition denounced by animal welfare groups. From 2030, this practice will be banned nationwide.

Good to know! Admission to the Five-Petalled Rose Festival (summer solstice weekend, around June 20th) is free for visitors wearing an authentic historical costume.

What should you eat in Český Krumlov?

If you enjoy cheap beer and great traditional food, you are in the right place!

• Local specialties include Česnečka, Kulajda, Svíčková, utopenec, langoš …
• Don’t miss the Street Food Festival and the Wine Festival.

Don’t leave without us!

• How to apply for a Schengen visa for Czechia?
• How to get travel insurance for your trip to Český Krumlov?

For more information:
Český Krumlov Information Center — Official Town Website

Why is Zagreb one of the most affordable European destinations?

Affordability, a large choice of activities and cultural events attract budget travellers to Croatia’s capital.

How much does it cost to visit Zagreb?

Reminder: Local currency is the euro (€). A mid-range traveller spends an average of €89 per day in Zagreb.

→ What is the average accommodation price in Zagreb?

Zagreb offers everything from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious abodes.

• A mid-range hotel room costs from €63 to €120 depending on the season.
• An average Airbnb ranges from €50 to €70.

→ How much does public transport cost?

• 147 buses and more than 20 tram lines.
• Tickets cost from €0.53 to €3.98.

Did you know? Transport also includes a Fulir (free), a cable car, a mini train and a funicular. More details on the official Zagreb public transport website.

What to see in Zagreb?

• Start with a free walking tour (tip your guide!).
• Notable sites include Lotrščak Tower (daily cannon), the Museum of Broken Relationships, Dolac market, Tkalčićeva Street, Ban Josip Jelačić Square, the cathedral, and the Art Park.

What to eat in Zagreb?

• Try Zapečeni štrukli, Sarma and Zagrebačka kremšnita. Don’t forget a local craft beer!

Don’t leave without us!

• How to apply for a Schengen visa for Croatia?
• How to get travel insurance for your trip to Croatia?

For more information: Zagreb Tourist Board

Why is Budapest, Hungary, a cheap European destination?

The capital city of Ernő Rubik’s home country is a no brainer when it comes to choosing an affordable yet colourful European destination!

How much does it cost to visit Budapest?

Reminder: the Hungarian currency is the forint (≈ €0.0025). The average traveller spends about €98 per day per person. The city is affordable thanks to many free activities.

→ What is the average accommodation price in Budapest?

• A mid-range hotel costs from €54 to €100.
• A 1-room Airbnb ranges from €63 to €87.
• Guesthouses and pensions offer even cheaper options.

→ How much does public transport cost?

Buses, metros, trolley buses, trams, trains, and even 4 public boat lines.

• Boat rides cost €2–3.
• Single tickets start at €1.27.

For more information visit the BKK website.

Bonus tip: Ride Tram #2 for panoramic Danube views for about €1!
Did you know? Opened in 1896, the M1 metro was continental Europe’s first electrified line.

What to see in Budapest and how much does it cost?

• Free walking tour (tip your guide).
• Highlights: gothic architecture, Colourful City Festival, St Stephen’s Basilica (+360° deck), Széchenyi Thermal baths, Buda Castle (UNESCO) and the Parliament.

Bonus info: On August 20th, St Stephen’s Day features concerts, cultural events and one of Europe’s biggest fireworks.

What should you eat in Budapest?

• Visit the Central Market Hall and food tours.
• Try Lángos, kürtőskalács, nokedli.

We recommend: Hop on a public transit boat; many have bars — grab a drink and enjoy the scenery.

Don’t leave without us!

• How to apply for a Schengen visa for Hungary?
• How to get travel insurance for your trip to Budapest?

For more information: Budapest Official Tourist Information website

Why is Tirana, Albania, one of the best budget-friendly places in Europe?

While Albania has not yet joined the EU, its candidacy is being examined. As one of the cheapest destinations in Europe we added this outsider to our list!

How much does it cost to visit Tirana?

Reminder: the Albanian currency is the lek (€0.01). An average traveller spends around €90 per day in Tirana. Affordable meals, transport, activities and accommodation make it budget-friendly.

→ What is the average accommodation price in Tirana?

• Mid-range hotel rooms cost from €40 to €85, depending on season.
• Hostels/dorms are limited; Airbnb averages ~€46 per night.

→ How much does public transport cost?

• 20+ bus lines (no central terminal).
• Tickets about €0.40.

Did you know? The Dajti Ekspres cable car reaches Dajti mountain in ~15 minutes.

What to see in Tirana and how much does it cost?

• Fortress of Justinian, Skanderbeg Square, Tirana Pyramid, Bunk’art 1 & 2 (~€5 each), Watch Tower.
• Festivals: Dita e Verës (Mar 14), Saint George’s Day (Apr 23), Colour Day (May).

What food should you try in Tirana?

• Byreks (~€0.30) from stands/bakeries, often with a dhallë drink.
• Also try tavë kosi, suxhuk, qofte, petulla. Street food festivals in spring/autumn are perfect to sample.

For more information:
Visit Tirana — Official Tourism Platform
Albanian Night — Traditional Food Experience

Why is Riga, Latvia, one of the top cheap cities to visit in Europe?

While Riga is climbing the ladder of more expensive cities, its cheap public transport, affordable food and varied activities keep it reasonably affordable.

How much does it cost to visit Riga?

A mid-range traveller spends about €122 per day in Riga.

→ What is the average accommodation price in Riga?

• Mid-range hotels: €56 to €106 depending on season.
• 1-room Airbnb: ~€64/night. Hostels offer cheaper options.

→ How much does public transport cost?

• Many sights are walkable; buses, trolleybuses and trams are well developed.
• A 90-minute ticket costs €1.50.

For more information, visit the Riga Public Transport website.

What to see in Riga and how much does it cost?

• Old Town (UNESCO), central market, Freedom Monument, House of the Black Heads, etc.
• Free tours available (FreeTours Riga, Riga Free Tours — tip appreciated).
• Visit during Riga City Festival or the Riga Contemporary Art fair.

Bonus idea: Bobsledding! Less than an hour from the centre you can reach 125+ km/h on an Olympic bob.

What to eat in Riga?

• For affordable meals: street food, central market, and ēdnīcas (self-service cafeterias).
• Specialities: rasol, pelmeni, karbonāde, Pelēkie Zirņi ar Speķi.
• The Riga Taste festival is perfect to explore local flavours.

Don’t’ leave without us!

• How to apply for a Schengen visa for Latvia?
• How to get travel insurance for your trip to Latvia?

For more information:
Latvia Travel — Official Tourism Portal
Experience Riga — Official Tourism Guide

Why is Bucharest a good choice for budget-conscious travellers?

A Schengen newbie since January 1st 2025, Romania and its capital Bucharest attract visitors with captivating architecture, tumultuous history and affordability.

How much does it cost to visit Bucharest?

Reminder: Romanian currency is the leu (≈ €0.20). The average traveller spends about €170 per day per person.

→ What is the average accommodation price in Bucharest?

• Midrange hotels: ~€92 to €158 depending on season.
• Average 1-room Airbnb: ~€65. Several hostels are cheaper.

→ How much does public transport cost?

• 120 bus lines, 13 trolleybus lines, 22 tram lines, 5 subway lines (63 stations).
• After buying a magnetic card (~€0.80), a 90-minute trip costs ~€0.60.
• Subway tickets cost less than €1.

What to see in Bucharest and how much does it cost?

• Start with a free walking tour (and tip!).
• Old Town, Palace of Parliament, Stavropoleos Monastery, Cismigiu Gardens, Cărturești Carusel, Calea Victoriei, Revolution Square, etc.

Did you know? Nicknamed “little Paris”. For Parisian charm, visit the Little Paris Museum and the Triumphant Arc.

What to eat in Bucharest?

• Traditional dishes: sarmale, chiftele, tochitură, mici, etc.
• For meals with locals, try the eatwith website.
• Don’t miss the Bucharest Street Food Festival.

Don’t leave without us!

• How to apply for a Schengen visa for Romania?
• How to get travel insurance for your trip to Bucharest?

For more information: Visit Bucharest — Official City Tourism Guide

Enjoy your European adventures!

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FAQ

Can I apply for a Schengen visa in any country part of the Schengen area?
No. Even if a uniform short-stay visa allows you to move freely in all the countries of the Schengen area, you must submit your visa application at the consular services of the country where you will be staying the longest. If you are staying in each country for the same amount of time, your application must be submitted at the consular services of the first country you are going to visit (the country of first entry).

Is the euro the common currency of all Schengen countries?
The euro (EUR-€) is not the currency of all Schengen countries. Many, such as Germany and France, use it; others, such as Sweden and Poland, keep their own currency.
Pro Tip: Understand the differences between Europe, the EU, the Schengen Zone, the Euro Zone, and the EEA.

Which is the last country to have joined the Schengen area?
Bulgaria and Romania joined the Schengen Area on January 1st, 2025.