21 Best and Cheapest Places to Travel in Europe

No doubt European vacations are some of the most expensive. That does not mean you cannot find an affordable place to travel, as long as you avoid hotspots such as Paris. With a little creativity and some time on your hands to vacation, the Europe trip doesn’t have to cost you an arm and a leg.

That said, the following are some of the Cheapest Places to Travel in Europe.

Finally, you can travel and have some fun in some of the best places in Europe with a smaller purse. Enjoy the read!

21 Best and Cheapest Places to Travel in Europe

1. Balkan Peninsula

Diving, kayaking, and paragliding are some of the best outdoor activities that you can enjoy in your Europe travel. However, the cost of engaging in these activities can prove too far to reach, at least for some of us.

The Balkan Peninsula is a cheaper option if only you void Croatia, which may not be for those on a budget. Please travel by bus to Bosnia and Herzegovina from Herceg Novi, Montenegro. You can enjoy paddle boarding and kayaking at Our Lady of the Rocks, Porto Montenegro and Perast.

2. Seville 

Seville is part of the Andalucia region in Spain, characterized by siestas and bullfighting. It is everything that you would expect from historic Spain in terms of culture and atmosphere.

Seville has Jewish, Christian and Muslim influences, and which makes it one of the most diverse cities in Spain. A feeling of historic Spain does not end with the culture, but also from the centuries-old neighborhoods and cuisines.

The laid-back lifestyle is made better by the sweet tunes of the guitarists in the Streets that churn out Spanish melodies, and which falls softly to the ears, whether you understand the language or not.

Don’t conclude your vacation without visiting the parks, gardens, and palaces that underscores the history of the city, as well as its culture. The architectural splendor is sure to cap what is one of the most fulfilling vacations in Europe.

3. Cluj, Romania

The European destination is popular among nightlifers. Furthermore, there are numerous daytime activities that any vacationer will find pleasing around the town.

And while you are at it, don’t forget to visit the Turda Salt Mine which provides a glimpse into the mining industry in the country.

Cluj is the second-largest city in Romania and has ever increased flights from Europe and to other European countries, which makes it easy for travelers. It is always advisable to start with the architecture that features Baroque buildings gothic church, which is the second largest, and the medieval towers.

You can then go head-first into the gardens and galleries after you have had a feel of the architecture. The daytime is unlike the nightlife with which Cluj is popular. Regardless, this Romanian city should be in every a list of a vacationer looking for the best cheap places to visit in Europe.

4. Prague

Prague is one of the fascinating destinations in Europe because of its resilience and spirit to stand through it all. The Czech capital has a history of floods, fires, invasions, and overthrows, but managed to overcome it all.

It’s most apparent charms include the statue-lined bridges, storied churches, hilltop castles, and narrow streets. The famous attractions such as the Prague Castle and Charles Bridge are free to see for everyone. There are no charges.

Numerous hotels in the Czech capital only offer a fraction in the price of delicacies and rooms than what you would get in other European cities. Prague is one of the cheap travel destinations in Europe, no argument about that.

5. Budapest 

Whoever said that Europe travel is expensive has never been to Budapest in Hungary. The eastern European location is a favorite of many travelers who enjoy its culture and the numerous universities.

The red-bricked city has a great student atmosphere, rich culture, greenery and some of the most amazing parks to make your European travel a fantastic experience.

Budapest has some elegant Boulevards and outstanding architecture that highlights years of past communist rule. The city deserves the title of Paris in the east. It is a dynamic city that blends best of East Europe and some of West Europe.

It is a place that you can enjoy the best of both worlds, or even better, the .dynamism of Europe as a continent.

6. Baltic coast in Estonia

Estonia, with its swathes of wilderness, may be unpopular, but it also has interesting sights and activities to make it a great destination in Europe. The scattering islands and stretches of coast cap what is one of the most fulfilling destinations in the continent. With your solar backpack to charge your equipment, this destination can turn out as one of the best.

It is an especially great place if you are a biker. For example, you can cycle through the Lahemaa National Park, and explore the rugged parts and coastal regions, while enjoying the beautiful breeze.

You can visit the fishing villages, and enjoy the landscape while sleeping on hay beds. Saaremaa is an island with pine forests and free spa that will make it the most fulfilling budget vacation. For your taste buds, there is sauerkraut, blood sausage, and Le Coq beer.

It is always good to sample the local delicacies, wherever you go so that you can have the best experience.

7.  Athens 

There’s this misconception that Athens is among the most expensive cities to visit, based on its historical importance that no other city can rival. However, nothing could be further from the truth. The cobblestone streets and marble monuments make this City a great place to visit, but more so because it is cheap and has some of the best historical sites.

Life moves slowly here, and the locals don’t seem to be in a hurry to do anything. This is quite in contrast to its glory days as an administration and political powerhouse. Athens has a high place in history, and it always makes it a great place to visit for the history buffs.

And as darkness engulfs the city, sweet music coming from Trevena and inviting aroma of spiced meats makes the city one of the best places to be. The Rock music coming from the dance clubs fills the air with excitement, which is in contrast to daytime.

8. Buenos Aires 

Argentina is the home of professional football and has some of the best players that professional football has ever seen. However, it’s capital, Buenos Aires makes this list as one of the budget vacations in Europe.

The Streets have endless parks, cafes and European style architecture. You can quickly get empanadas, wine, steak and ice cream along the streets and enjoy the delicacies that Europe has to offer. Buenos Aires is an intoxicating place that you can escape to during winter, or unfavorable weather if you are from across the continent.

The Argentinian ice cream tradition is flavorful, rich and dense. It caps a gastronomic gem, that is richly Argentinian. You must make sure you sample the ice creams before you fly out.

It would also be unfortunate if you don’t try fugazza, the Argentinian pizza without tomato sauce.

9. Serbia  

Serbia is undoubtedly one of Europe’s best-kept secrets in terms of budget travel. The streets of Belgrade are full of activity in bars, cafe, clubs, and restaurants. You will find Serbians to be friendly as they enjoy their local, rakija, a traditional tea, and a favorite of many.

And while the gorgeous restaurants have some of the best local and international cuisines, make sure you satisfy your curiosity with local dishes such as karađorđeva šnicla. The other recommendations include cevapi, komplet lepinja.

The nightlife in Serbia is legendary. If you are a party animal, then you are going to fall in love with Belgrade, and it will not be a surprise if you make several returns to the European country.

The dramatic mountains, gorgeous and overall landscape in Serbia make the trip worth every bit of investment.

10. Lisbon 

Lisbon may be one of the most laid-back cities in Europe. However, it can comfortably rival the rest of Europe as a travel destination, especially for those on a budget. Saint George’s castle and other centuries-old buildings are the highlights of the trip.

The village life in Lisbon is quite apparent, and that is despite the growing urbanization and technology. There’s always that feeling of fulfillment that you get when you are among hospitable locals in a village setting.

Some of the fun activities include the Santa Justa elevator where you can enjoy the scenery across the countryside. The Feira da Ladra flea market as for treasure hunters and Cascais beaches are for those that want to lay around and enjoy the day basking in the sun and enjoying the breeze.

11. Bulgaria

Undoubtedly, Bulgaria has to be in the list of places or countries to visit in Europe on a budget. Bulgaria has a rich historical heritage starting with signs of Neolithic settlements and hauls of jewelry, and tombs left behind by Thracians. All this is open to exploration if you have the time.

The ancient Roman architecture such as amphitheaters and bathhouses are there to explore if you fancy it.

For the lovers of great outdoors, Bulgaria is one of the countries that you find to be deeply satisfying in that regard. The landscape includes Pirin National Park, popular with bird watching and the Bansko ski fields. In general, the seven mountain ranges is a popular destination for skiers, hikers, and bikers.

In architecture and religion, Bulgaria does not lag. It boasts the 10th-century Rila Monastery and gold-domed churches. More impressive is the Orthodox churches with the paintings of the Saints, and which draw pilgrims from all over the continent.

12. Florence 

The little city with significant historical importance was the source of inspiration for great artists such as Brunelleschi and Michelangelo. Florence would give you an experience of 14th century Europe were it not for the fashion outlets that line the streets. Even so, you get a good picture of how it was, long ago in Europe.

This is the place to be if you fancy the idea of sampling Italian cuisine and gorgeous sunsets. It has a charming atmosphere of love, may be inspired by the euphoric Renaissance art.

The city is compact, and that makes it ideal for on foot exploration. Everything is within a 20-minute walk, and you may not need public transportation.

13. Brussels 

It may not seem like it, but Brussels is one of the top destinations for vacations on a budget. The de facto capital of the EU boasts baroque-style streets and gothic squares to create a feeling of sophistication and power. Maybe the perspective comes from the fact that Brussels is at the center of European political power and administration.

Either way, the feeling makes it an ideal destination for people that want to experience the best of Europe, but on a budget.

The gastronomies that include chocolate, beer, and a three-course meal is characteristically Belgian. The city is multilingual and cosmopolitan, and that may explain why it is a favorite as the EU capital. The marketplaces museums restaurants and other establishments especially underscore this diversity.

14. Rome

Rome is one city that is at the center of European history, and it is quite magical by itself. Most travelers can attest to this.

Founded by twin brothers that were fathered by a war god, and nursed by a she-wolf, as legend would have it, Rome is a European city with something special for vacationers.

The structures like the Roman Forum and the Pantheon bring back memories of the times of Octavian and Julius Caesar. The numerous historical structures and monuments include the churches and beautiful architecture.

Foodies will love Roman cuisine in cutting-edge restaurants and sleek hotels. The designer storefronts best underscore the fast-paced spirit of the Italian capital city. And as a result, it always comes as a wonder to many people that Rome is one of the cheapest vacation places.

15. Corfu 

Corfu is one of the most excellent places for vacationers looking for an escape from the stress of being in the fast lane. The sweet smell of fresh olives and the green landscape is sure to melt away any amount of stress, and that is what every vacationer wants.

The pebbly and euphoric beaches make anyone appreciate the fact that Corfu is one of the budget places in Europe. It is a bargain, as you cannot put any price on a peace of mind obtained from the connection with nature.

And apart from the sun and beautiful landscape, Corfu is also home to historical monuments, which you must make sure to visit before you conclude your vacation. Other great attractions include the Corfu donkey rescue, Paleokastritsa Monastery, and Palaio Frourio.

16. Bratislava

Bratislava is a European City made famous by the comedy, Eurotrip. And even though the comedy portrays The City as poor, but nothing could be further from the truth. In contrast, it is one of the most fabulous places to visit in Europe and even better one of the cheapest travels on the continent.

Bratislava architecture underscores and illustrious history, and it includes crowning Castle baroque palaces and gothic and medieval structures. However, everything in Bratislava structures is not all prehistoric. You will still find modern cafes, bridges, and boutiques.

The nightlife in Bratislava is unique and incomparable with some of the top places in Europe. Beautiful nature is also part of the city, and it includes Vineyards and the Danube River.

17.  Vilnius 

Vilnius is an authentic town that best underscores the scars of the Holocaust. It was once nicknamed the Northern Jerusalem because of its vibrant Jewish Community. The community is no more, but the scars are there, and several museums dedicated to the community is accessible to the public.

There are cemeteries full to the brim with war dead, and the KGB torture chamber. And even though Vilnius is the capital, it has up to 40% green cover, and which makes it a unique European City. It is a place that blends the historical sites with the green nature exceptionally.

You will also find the artists, punks, and antiques that are characteristically Vilnius. The church spires are also quite apparent in this City.

18. Lviv, Ukraine

The UNESCO-listed city in Ukraine is unlike others in the country. It is not characteristically Soviet but instead has a Central European charm. The rattling trams and coffeehouses create an environment that is quite different from the Soviet-influenced regions in the country.

Interestingly, Russian is a minor language in this Ukrainian City. But that is not the only thing visitors love about Lviv. It has tour agencies, hotels and restaurants that can rival any other top destination in Europe.

Even better, travel information is available in English, and that makes it a premier destination for many around the world. The various history museums and the castle hill are some of the attractions to see in this budget destination.

19. Montenegro 

As one of the most underrated European destinations, Montenegro is one of the ideal destinations for people on a budget. The well-preserved Bay of Kotor is accessible to visitors and provide the best picturesque views.

The turquoise Bay and medieval architecture makes this destination quite fulfilling, and beyond expectations. The hotel prices and cuisines are quite affordable in comparison to their Mediterranean neighbors.

The coastal cities such as Kotor and Herceg Novi best underscore the beauty of Montenegro in a way that is special and original. It is, therefore, no wonder that those who discover this paradise make return trips over and over.

Montenegro may be one of the smallest cities in Europe, but it’s natural, and human-made features make it a destination to reckon with.

20. Turkey

Turkey is another outstanding country in Europe that you can spend as little as €5 on food and enjoy some of the most significant sites, culture as well as the atmosphere.

You can explore the extravagant blue mosque and some of the most entertaining nightlife on a budget. And the fact that turkey was at the center of successive Empires such as Byzantine, Romans, and Ottomans, it has its fair share of historical monuments.

Also, Turkey has a diverse landscape that includes Cappadocia rock formations and Asian Anatolia. Others include the golden beaches and Kaçkar Mountains green Pastures that always make a beautiful sight to every visitor.

The fun outdoor activities include rafting, kayaking boating, and even skydiving. The Cappadocia hot air balloon rides are some of the best ways to enjoy the Turkish landscape.

21. Albania

One of the best things about Albania is that you can take in the exceptional architecture while dining with as little as 10 Euros per day. It is without a doubt a budget destination in a continent that most people associate with enormous costs.

But just because it is one of the cheapest does not mean you cannot find some of the best amenities such as a private pool and a hotel room with great architecture. In contrast, it is quite the opposite. You can enjoy your private beach and private room according to your preferences, and the best of all is that the amenities come at a lower price compared to others in Europe.

Some of the best places to visit include the Blue Eye Spring and other Greek and Roman sites.

Conclusion

Many people believe that there are no genuinely cheap destinations for vacations in Europe. However, that is not usually the case, and with a little creativity, and diligence in searching, you can get the best Cheapest Places to Travel in Europe. It is often no big deal.

The above destinations are only a handful of them that you can sample, and see whether you like them. You never know, maybe that cheap European destination is the one you have been looking for, all along. You don’t have to spend big bucks to have the time of your life away from home.

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