Best Cheap Cities to Visit in Europe
Traveling Europe on a budget? Some cities offer just as much charm, history, and culture as famous capitals — for a fraction of the price. Here are some of the best affordable destinations to explore without draining your wallet.
1. Budapest, Hungary 🇭🇺
Thermal baths, stunning architecture, hearty food, and lively nightlife — all at a great price. Accommodation, transport, and food are very budget-friendly.
What to do for cheap:
- Free walking tours
- Thermal baths (Lukács, Rudas)
- Danube River views at night
2. Krakow, Poland 🇵🇱
A beautiful old town, rich history, and some of Europe’s lowest prices for food and lodging.
Top tips:
- Visit Wawel Castle grounds for free
- Eat pierogi at local milk bars
- Use the affordable public transport system
3. Porto, Portugal 🇵🇹
Smaller and cheaper than Lisbon, but full of color, wine, and coastal charm.
Why go:
- Low-cost accommodation
- Affordable food (try francesinha!)
- Walkable city with riverside views
4. Sofia, Bulgaria 🇧🇬
Often overlooked, Sofia is safe, friendly, and incredibly affordable.
Budget travel perks:
- Historic churches and free museums
- Inexpensive transport and hostels
- Access to nearby mountains
5. Sarajevo, Bosnia & Herzegovina 🇧🇦
A hidden gem with a mix of Eastern and Western culture, Sarajevo is rich in history and very budget-friendly.
Highlights:
- Local street food (cevapi!)
- Free historical sites and mosques
- Warm hospitality from locals
6. Vilnius, Lithuania 🇱🇹
A small capital city with beautiful streets, great coffee, and super low prices.
What’s great:
- Cozy cafés and creative spaces
- Cheap public transport
- Free city views from the hilltop
Final Tips:
- Use buses or budget airlines to move between these cities
- Stay in hostels or shared apartments
- Join free walking tours in each location
- Eat where locals eat!
Traveling smart doesn’t mean missing out — it means experiencing more, for less.