Top 10 Budget Friendly European Destinations to Visit Now
Travelling around Europe on a tight budget? Easy. Even more so, sometimes the coolest trips are the cheapest. Whether you're travelling solo, with your family or as a couple, there are budget friendly European countries where you can see a ton of things without going broke.
Castles, beaches, street food, ancient ruins, in this article we feature 10 cities where your budget will stretch a lot further than you think (together with useful tips on how to save money without sacrificing the experience).
So, let’s explore Leonardo’s 10 budget-friendly European destinations:
1. Budapest, Hungary
Want to feel like royalty without spending a dime? Then head to Budapest. Beautiful, atmospheric and inexpensive, this city will leave you speechless.
Why it's great:
• Thermal baths (e.g. Széchenyi) – a whole day of pleasure for less than 20 euros.
• Eating out is easy. Goulash, langos, kürtoskalacz – all for pennies.
• Lots of free attractions: Buda Castle, Fisherman's Bastion, Danube embankment.
Ideal for: Solo travellers, couples and anyone who loves late-night ruin pubs and riverside views.
2. Bucharest, Romania
Bucharest is quirky. But it’s quirky in the best way—and super affordable. One minute you're walking past communist-era blocks, the next you’re sipping a flat white in a trendy coffee place full of hipsters.
What makes it cheap:
• Public transport costs close to nothing.
• Free walking tours every day.
• Student discounts at museums.
• Overall prices here are a lot lower than in other European countries.
Suitable for: Digital nomads, off-the-beaten-path travellers and anyone who likes a bit of street wildness mixed with trendiness.
3. Krakow, Poland
Krakow is like a medieval fairy tale at a low price. Think cobblestone streets, carriages, castles... but without the prices of Vienna or Paris.
What makes it cheap:
• The main landmarks in the city centre and the Wawel Castle are free to get around.
• Street food is affordable. Grab pierogi or zapiekanka (Polish pizza-bread) from street vendors for under €3.
• Nightlife is lively and wallet-friendly. Beer prices here are ridiculously cheap (from €1.50).
Perfect for: Students, solo travellers, groups of friends.
4. Mallorca, Spain
Mallorca is not just about luxury holidays. Simply opt for off season and you will enjoy the same sites for half of the price. Choose to travel in April–May or September–October, and voilà, you are in budget paradise!
How to save money:
• No need to rent a car. Buses around the island will take you everywhere you need.
• Avoid resort hotspots. Small towns like Soller or Alcudia are much cheaper and more atmospheric.
• Opt for coastal hikes and quiet beaches—just bring your towel and sunscreen.
Ideal for: Couples and families dreaming of the sea without the crowds and going broke.
5. Berlin, Germany
Berlin is a city full of character. Street art, history, partying, and all for a reasonable amount of money!
Where to save:
• Visit one of many landmarks with free entry: Berlin Wall, Holocaust memorial, Bundestag, Checkpoint Charlie.
• Get a quick, cheap, and filling meal like a currywurst or a doner (kebab), just €4–5 each.
• Get an e-bike to commute around the city (it’s super bike-friendly here).
Suitable for: Creative types and urban explorers.
6. Athens, Greece
Athens is ancient. But it’s still one of the cheapest capital cities to visit in Europe, especially if you travel outside of the July to August peak season.
What makes it cheap:
• Entry to some major museums and landmarks is free on the first Sunday of the month.
• Abundance of affordable street food, such as gyros, souvlaki, pita. Prices range between €2–3.
• Lots of cheap flights, especially out of season.
Great for: Families, history lovers, and solo travellers.
7. Rome, Italy
Rome may seem expensive. But it absolutely can be the opposite of that—if you plan it right.
Tips for saving money on your Roman vacation:
• Visit Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, Pantheon – all without spending a cent.
• When hungry, get a slice of pizza or a big plate of pasta. It’s cheap and tasty!
• Get the Roma Pass to save on public transport and museum entries.
Suitable for: Families, history buffs, budget travellers with love for pasta.
8. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague looks like a place from a fairytale, but it doesn't require magic to be affordable.
What makes it budget-friendly:
• Beer is cheaper than water (seriously).
• Main attractions, like Charles Bridge, Old Town Square, and Astronomical Clock are all free to admire.
• The city centre is walkable, with most of the attractions reachable on foot.
Who should go: Couples, students, romantics.
9. Belfast, Northern Ireland
Few people put Belfast on their must-visit list. And wrongly so. The city is compact, friendly, and surrounded by beautiful nature.
How to save on your trip to Belfast:
• Look for budget airlines, such as Ryanair and EasyJet, when booking your flights. They often offer deals and promos.
• Include Giant's Causeway into your itinerary. The place is spectacular and makes up for a perfect day trip.
• Bring your own tent if you are planning to go on a multi-day hike in Belfast’s surroundings.
Best for: Nature lovers.
10. Warsaw, Poland
Warsaw might look a bit rough, but don’t allow the first impression to fool you. The city is modern, fun, and incredibly affordable! There’s a lot to love about this city.
Why Warsaw is worth visiting:
• Many museums offer free entries on special days. Check out our article about Top 7 Free Museums in Warsaw.
• Bar mleczny (milk bars) serve homemade meals for under €5.
• Great discounts for students and cheap public transport.
Suitable for: Students, solo travellers and groups of friends.
General Tips on Saving on Your European Vacation
Let’s be real—you want to save, not suffer. Here's what actually works:
Avoid peak seasons. Spring and autumn are the best times to visit if you’re on a budget.
Consider Interrail or Eurail passes if you’re planning to have frequent train connections between your destinations.
Budget flights are another affordable way to get from point A to point B. However, your luggage capacity might be limited.
Don’t overlook buses. They might be slower but often offer the cheapest fares.
Eat where the locals eat. It’s not only a great way to save money, but also to try the most authentic foods.
Bring your refillable water bottle! It’ll help you stay hydrated without spending a cent.
Free walking tours are a cool way to explore the city. Note: even though the tours are free, a tip to your guide is highly recommended.
So… Where Should You Go?
That depends on you. Want a beach vacation? Visit Mallorca in the off-season. Interested in history? Try Athens, Rome. Want to spend your nights partying or bar-hopping? Budapest, Berlin, Prague. Something out of the ordinary? Bucharest or Belfast. Europe has so many budget-friendly cities that won’t wreck your bank account. The main trick is to choose the right timing, plan a little ahead, and be open to new things.
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