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

Written by S. Castlemilk
Date: 14/10/2025

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 Zurek (soup), Pierogi (dumplings with filling), Golabki (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. A great way to optimize your holiday!

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! Thank you very much).

• 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 (eggs, yoghurt and cheese pie), tutmanik (cheese bread), 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, a fruit brandy.


• Bulgaria abounds in mineral water springs. In Sofia, free mineral water fountains are available in public areas so bottle up!

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. Consequently, visitors rarely use local transport. Be ready to spend on a good pair of walking shoes instead!


• 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?

• Český Krumlov’s old town was built on the banks of the Vltava River and encircles a castle with Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque influences.


• The main sites (some free) include its monasteries, St Vitus Church, Port 1560, the impressive 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 because of the animals’ poor living conditions. 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 different types of soups such as Česnečka (garlic) or Kuladja (dill), Svickova (marinated beef and dumplings), utopenec (pickled sausage), langoš (fried dough with cheese) …


• Don’t miss the Street Food Festival and the Wine Festival to further indulge on local delights.

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 of Český Krumlov 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 will take you anywhere you want to go.


• Tickets cost you from €0,53 to €3,98.

Did you know?

Zagreb means of transport also include 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 of Zagreb to discover the main sites of the city and find out more about its history thanks to a local guide (don’t forget to tip!).


• Notable sites include Lotrščak Tower (don’t miss the daily cannon firing ceremony), the surprising museum of Broken Relationships, Dolac market, Tkalčićeva Street, Ban Josip Jelačić Square, (free events and concerts in the summer), Zagreb cathedral, the Art Park (many cultural happenings), etc.

What to eat in Zagreb?

• Traditional Croatian dishes include Zapečeni štrukli (dough with cow cheese), Sarma (stuffed cabbage leaves) and Zagrebačka kremšnita (custard and chocolate pastry).

Don’t forget to try a local beer at one of the town’s craft breweries!

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 an affordable destination particularly thanks to its 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.


• Budapest’s guesthouses and pensions offer even more budget-friendly options.

→ How much does public transport cost?

Buses, metros, trolley buses, trams, trains, and even 4 public boat lines boats, Budapest’s public transport network is wide and varied!

• Boat rides cost €2 -3.


• Single bus, metro and train tickets start at €1,27.

For more information visit the BKK website.

Bonus tip

Ride the Tram #2 for panoramic views on the Danube at just €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?

• Take a free walking tour and discover the secrets of the town thanks to a local guide. Don’t freeload on their knowledge and remember to tip.


• The city’s highlights include its gothic architecture, the annual Colourful City Festival (Színes Város Fesztivál), St Stephen’s Basilica and its 360-degree observation deck, the Szechenyi Thermal baths for an immersive experience with the locals, the Buda Castle (UNESCO) and the Parliament.

Bonus info

On August 20th, Budapest celebrates St Stephen’s Day. Festivities include concerts, cultural events and one of Europe’s biggest firework shows.

What should you eat in Budapest?

• Food tours and visiting the Central Market Hall will allow you to discover local specialities.


• They include Lángos (fried dough with sour cream and various toppings), kürtoskalacz (chimney cakes), nokedli (egg noodles).

We recommend

For a fun experience, hop on a public transit boat. Many have bars on board. Grab a drink, head to an outdoor table 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 currently being examined. As one of the cheapest destinations of the European continent we added this little 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 a budget-friendly destination.

→ What is the average accommodation price in Tirana?

• Mid-range hotel rooms cost from €40 to €85, depending on the season.


• The choice for hostels and dorms being rather limited, renting a room or a flat is a good option with average Airbnb prices at €46 per night.

→ How much does public transport cost?

• There are over 20 bus lines but no bus terminal.


• Tickets cost about €0,40.

Did you know?

The Dajti Ekspres cable car will take you up Dajti mountain in about 15 minutes.

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

• Tirana’s highlights include the Fortress of Justinian (or Tirana Castle), Skanderbeg Square, the Tirana Pyramid, Bunk’art 1 and 2 (≈€5 each), the Watch Tower etc.


• Tirana likes to celebrate! Popular festivals include Dita e Verës (March 14), Saint George’s Day (April 23) and Colour Day Festival (May)

What food should you try in Tirana?

• Byreks, (stuffed pies) cost about €0.30 in stands or furre bukë (bakery). Locals wash them down with a dhallë, a salted yoghurt drink.


• Other Albanian specialities include tavë kosi (lamb and yoghurt casserole), suxhuk (sausage), qofte (meatballs) and petulla (fried dough).


• The spring and autumn street food festivals offer the perfect opportunity to taste them all!

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 choice of activities, keep it in the reasonably affordable destination category.

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?

• A midrange hotel room costs from €56 to €106 depending on the season.


• A 1-room Airbnb averages €64 per night.


• The range of hostels provide cheaper options.

→ How much does public transport cost?

• While many interesting sites are within walking distance, the local public transport system is well developed with buses, trolleybuses and trams.


• A 90-minute single ticket costs €1,50.

For more information, visit the Riga Public Transport website.

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

• Popular attractions include the UNESCO-listed Old Town, the central market (one of Europe’s largest), the Freedom Monument, The House of the Black Heads, etc.


• Free tours are available including FreeTours Riga and Riga Free Tours (don’t forget that tip!).


• Visiting the town during festivals such as the Riga City Festival or the Riga Contemporary Art fair gives a great sense of local life.

Bonus idea

Don’t miss out on a unique experience: bobsledding! Less than an hour away from the city centre, on board your Olympic bob, you can reach more than 125km/hour!

What to eat in Riga?

• For affordable local meals try street food, the central market and ēdnīcas, self-service cafeterias.


• Latvian specialities include rasol (potatoe salad), pelmeni (stuffed dumplings), karbonāde (Battered chicken or pork), Pelēkie Zirņi ar Speķi (grey peas and bacon).


• The Riga Taste festival is another perfect opportunity to amuse your bouche!

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 Latvian 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 irresistibly attract visitors drawn by their 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 cost on average from €92 to €158 depending on the season.


• An average 1-room Airbnb costs around €65.


• Several hostels offer budget-friendly options.

→ How much does public transport cost?

• Bucharest has a well-developed public transport network with 120 bus lines, 13 trolleybus lines, 22 tram lines and five subway lines (63 stations).


• After purchasing a magnetic card (€0.80), a 90-minute trip will cost you €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. Local guides can give you insider tips, a different kind than the one you shouldn’t forget to give!


• Interesting sites include the Old Town, the Palace of Parliament, the Stavropoleos Monastery, the Cismigiu Gardens, the Cărturești Carusel bookshop, the Calea Victoriei, Revolution Square, etc.

Did you know?

Bucharest is often nicknamed the “little Paris”. For a taste of Parisian charm, visit the Little Paris Museum and the Triumphant Arc.

What to eat in Bucharest?

• Traditional dishes include sarmale (cabbage rolls), chiftele (meatballs), tochitura (stew), mici (grilled minced meat rolls), etc.


• If you want to have a meal with locals, visit the eatwith website and connect with Bucharest foodies.


• Don’t forget the Bucharest Street food festival to taste more local delicacies!

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!

Before your trip to Europe, secure peace of mind with AXA Schengen Travel Insurance.

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• Do you need a Schengen visa to come to Europe?


• How to choose the best Schengen travel insurance?


• Safety tips when travelling to Europe


• What are the safest European destinations?

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 i.e. through which you will enter the Schengen area.

Is the euro the common currency of all Schengen countries?

The euro (EUR- €) is not the currency of all Schengen countries. Even though many countries of the area, such as Germany and France, use it, others, such as Sweden and Poland, have chosen to keep their own currency.

Pro Tip: Understand the key differences between Europe, the EU, the Schengen Zone, the Euro Zone, and the EEA to navigate your travel and stay informed.

Which is the last country to have joined the Schengen area?

Bulgaria and Romania are the last countries to have joined the Schengen Area on January 1st, 2025.