I personally have visited well over half of all the countries in Europe. I can tell you there are some incredibly beautiful and shockingly affordable places to visit. Tourist hotspots like London or Paris can cost you $400 every single day. However, I want to share my experience with best budget friendly destinations in Europe that cost less than $100 per day. This guide is for the mature traveler who loves to explore but also values their hard-earned money. First of all, I will list the cheapest and best destinations in Europe so you can plan your next big adventure.
Georgia: The $45 Per Day Paradise
Georgia is my number one pick for the best budget friendly places in Europe. Most people do not even realize that tCheap Beautiful Places To Travel in Europehis country is in Europe. At that time, I was shocked by its beauty. It is located in the Caucasus region. It blends ancient traditions with landscapes that take your breath away. I recommend that you explore the historic streets of Tbilisi. You can see century-old churches right next to modern glass buildings. Additionally, the hospitality there is legendary. I spent an entire day visiting Okatse Canyon and Kinchkha Canyon for just $25. That price even included a generous tip.
Though I love the city, most travelers go to Georgia for the Caucasus mountains. I visited Stepantsminda to see the Gergeti Trinity Church. On top of that, you can head to Mestia to see medieval stone towers. Mount Ushba is often called the Matterhorn of the Caucasus. Therefore, if you love nature and hiking, this is the place for you. For a budget trip, you should plan to spend between $45 and $70 per day. Mid-range travelers will likely spend around $80 to $130 per day. Finally, the food is something I will never forget.
Serbia: Authentic Culture and Hidden Caves
Serbia is one of the most underrated travel destinations in Europe. I think it is one of the best budget friendly cities to visit in Europe. Most people start their journey in Belgrade. This city is shaped by centuries of history. First of all, you must walk through the Kalemegdan Fortress. It is completely free to enter. It offers one of the best sunset views in the entire region where the Danube and Sava rivers meet. Serbia has a very strong cafe culture. Locals spend hours sitting and talking. It feels very authentic and not at all touristy.
Later, I traveled south to visit Stopića Cave. Gradually, this cave became the most visited one in Serbia. It has a unique landscape and is close to the Zlatibor mountain center. Additionally, you should visit Novi Sad for a slower pace of life. I walked along the river and saw the colorful architecture. Plus, nature lovers can explore Tara National Park. You can hike, kayak, or just enjoy the deep forests. For a budget trip, you will only need about $60 to $85 per day. Therefore, it is a great choice for those who want culture and nature without the crowds.
Albania: The Hidden Gem of the Riviera
Albania is another one of the best budget friendly places in Europe. It is a country where mountains rise right next to the shore. First of all, the capital city of Tirana is very vibrant. Colorful street art fills the lively streets. I found that the average age of people there is only 32 years old. This makes the city feel young and full of energy. On top of that, you can visit ancient towns like Berat and Gjirokastër. Both of these are UNESCO World Heritage sites.
However, the real star is the Albanian Riviera. I found stunning beaches and crystal clear blue water. As you travel south past the city of Vlore, you will climb a mountain pass. Once the road descends, the views of the cliffs and coast are breathtaking. I strongly recommend that you visit the southern part of the country. Additionally, you can save money by staying in a beach house through Airbnb instead of an all-inclusive resort. Budget travel here will cost about $70 to $105 per day. Finally, the people are very welcoming to visitors.
Bulgaria: History and Alpine Lakes
Bulgaria is a country where ancient history and dramatic landscapes come together. It is still incredibly affordable for any traveler. In the city of Sofia, you can explore Roman ruins and massive Orthodox churches. I visited the Alexander Nevski Cathedral and it was amazing. Additionally, you can hike Vitosha Mountain just outside the city for fresh air and panoramic views. I also visited Plovdiv. This is one of the oldest continuously lived-in cities in all of Europe.
On top of that, you must go into the Rila Mountains. I visited the Rila Monastery which is a stunning UNESCO site. Nearby, you can hike the seven Rila Lakes. This is one of the most beautiful alpine experiences in Eastern Europe. Similarly, the Black Sea coast offers great beaches. Budget travelers should plan to spend between $65 and $95 per day. For a mid-range trip, you will need around $110 to $165 per day. Therefore, Bulgaria offers plenty of culture and history without heavy tourism.
Poland: Medieval Cities and Majestic Castles
I am very excited to talk about Poland as it is one of the best budget friendly places to visit in Europe. It is bursting with history and charm. You can explore medieval cities like Krakow, Gdansk, and Warsaw. Cobblestone streets lead to majestic castles and cathedrals. I truly believe it is one of the most underrated places on the continent. In the north, I visited Gdansk along the Baltic Sea. It has beautiful beaches, though they can be crowded in the summer.
Additionally, I visited Malbork Castle. It is the largest castle in the world. Later, I went south to Krakow. The historic old town there amazes visitors from all over the world. Plus, you can visit the Wieliczka Salt Mine. It is an underground city and a truly unique attraction. If you love nature, the Tatra Mountains have dramatic peaks and alpine lakes. Poland is very affordable compared to Western Europe. Therefore, budget travelers should plan on $65 to $95 per day.
Romania: Legends and Mountain Drives
Romania is a captivating country in Eastern Europe with so much to discover. You can explore the famous region of Transylvania. It is home to Dracula legends and stunning medieval towns. I visited Bran Castle which is famously linked to the Dracula story. Additionally, the Carpathian Mountains offer breathtaking views and excellent hiking. I highly recommend that you spend a few days in Brasov at the foot of the mountains.
Finally, you must drive on the Transfăgărășan Road. It is considered one of the most scenic drives in the world. It winds through the mountains and offers views of valleys and waterfalls. However, you should check if it is open because snow often keeps it closed until late spring. In the capital of Bucharest, I saw the Palace of the Parliament. It is the second largest building in the world. It took me 45 minutes just to walk around it. Budget travel in Romania costs around $75 to $115 per day.
Hungary: Thermal Baths and Cave Gems
Hungary is a perfect blend of culture, architecture, and relaxation. I love basing myself in Budapest. It is one of the most elegant cities in Europe. You can walk along the Danube and explore Buda Castle. However, one of the most unique experiences is visiting the thermal baths. This tradition dates back to Roman times. I soaked in the mineral pools at Széchenyi and it was so relaxing. Additionally, you should visit the wine region of Eger for castle ruins and countryside views.
If you want to avoid the crowds of the capital, you should head to Miskolc. It is the fourth largest city in Hungary. It has a 14th-century castle and cozier spas than Budapest. I especially loved the Miskolctapolca cave baths. They are located inside a natural limestone labyrinth. On top of that, Bükk National Park has gorgeous waterfalls. Plus, a meal in an inexpensive restaurant there costs only about $7.80. Therefore, it is a great choice for the best cheap destinations in Europe summer. Budget travel in Hungary generally costs $75 to $110 per day.
Slovenia: Alpine Dreams and Green Cities
Slovenia often surprises people because it looks expensive but it really is not. It is a nature lover’s dream without the heavy crowds. The most famous spot is Lake Bled. It has an island church and a castle perched high above the water. You can swim there in the summer or hike to viewpoints. Nearby, Lake Bohinj is quieter and perfect for relaxation. Additionally, the capital city of Ljubljana is small and green. It is extremely walkable.
Later, I took a cable car up to Ljubljana Castle for sweeping views of the city. If you love the outdoors, you must visit Triglav National Park. It has turquoise rivers and dramatic mountain scenery. The Soča Valley is one of the most beautiful river valleys in all of Europe. Therefore, Slovenia is a great pick for the best budget friendly places in europe. Budget travelers should plan to spend between $90 and $130 per day. Mid-range comfort travel will cost around $150 to $230 per day.
Bosnia and Herzegovina: Crossroad of Cultures
Bosnia and Herzegovina is a place where East meets West. I found it to be very cheap and incredibly beautiful. The capital city of Sarajevo has medieval mosques and neo-Gothic cathedrals within walking distance of each other. First of all, the Old Town is a maze of cobbled lanes and Turkish-style bazaars. Additionally, you must see the stone-built Latin Bridge. Plus, a massive meal for four people can cost as little as $50.
On top of that, the nature is very impressive. I saw many waterfalls and mountains during my stay. You can go rafting or enjoy long walks in the countryside. Though snorkeling is difficult due to the small coastline, there are many other water activities on the rivers. I found that Sarajevo is one of the best budget friendly honeymoon destinations in europe because it is so romantic and affordable. A 3-star hotel there costs only about $30 per night. Therefore, it is a perfect spot for those who love history and outdoor adventure.
Montenegro: Dramatic Fjords and Mountains
Montenegro is one of the most visually dramatic countries in all of Europe. The Bay of Kotor looks like a fjord surrounded by steep mountains. I walked through Kotor’s old town and it felt like stepping back in time. Additionally, you should hike the fortress trail above the city. It rewards you with one of the best views in the Balkans. Plus, the town of Perast offers a quieter experience with historic stone buildings.
Later, I went inland to explore Durmitor National Park. It is perfect for hiking and seeing mountain lakes. It also has Tara Canyon, which is one of the deepest in the world. Montenegro offers coastline and mountains without the high prices of neighboring countries. For budget travel, you should plan to spend between $95 and $140 per day. Additionally, Sveti Stefan is a unique island village turned into a hotel that you must see. Finally, the country is safe and very welcoming to mature travelers.
Portugal: Wine Valleys and Hidden Islands
Portugal is an Iberian gem that I love to visit. It is awash with unique wine styles and family-run wineries. First of all, the city of Porto is iconic. A short drive north takes you to the Douro Valley. It is a protected heritage site of recognized beauty. Additionally, I recommend that you visit Madeira. It is one of the best budget friendly destinations in Europe because flight prices have dropped recently.
On top of that, the capital city of Lisbon is full of medieval architecture. You can idle through winding streets in search of your next delicious meal. I found three wine regions within a day trip of the city. Plus, Portugal makes it relatively easy to get a long-term visa if you are a digital nomad. Similarly, the food is excellent and the people are friendly. Budget travelers can find great value here if they avoid the most touristy areas. Therefore, it remains a favorite for mature travelers who love wine and culture.
Greece: Ancient Ruins and Quiet Islands
Greece is one of the most popular destinations in Europe for a good reason. You can admire the ancient ruins of Athens and wander through charming villages. I think Athens is an absolute must-see. It has a majestic acropolis and incredible food. However, many travelers find the islands of Mykonos and Santorini too expensive and crowded. Instead, I recommend that you visit lesser-known islands like Karpathos.
I found crystal clear water and far fewer tourists there. Additionally, the Peloponnese Peninsula is home to some of the oldest cities in Europe. You can visit Mycenae where ancient history began over 3,000 years ago. Greece is also a great choice for a best budget friendly honeymoon destinations in europe if you pick the right island. Plus, you can find open cafes and bars even at 3:00 am. Budget travel will cost about $120 to $170 per day. Therefore, you should avoid the touristy islands to save money.
Spain: Beach Towns and Free Museums
Spain is a country with rich and unique cultures. It is one of the best budget friendly places in europe if you know where to go. I recommend that you visit Malaga or Alicante for dream locations near the beach. Additionally, Almunecar is a small vacation town with mostly locals. It is charming and has great weather for snorkeling and boating. Later, I discovered that Madrid has 176 free attractions to visit.
On top of that, you can visit the city of Tarragona just south of Barcelona. It is often overlooked by crowds. Plus, the Costa Blanca area between Valencia and Alicante is very family-friendly. I found that Almeria is one of the least tourist-trodden cities on the coast. Similarly, Seville is great for eating out and producing juicy oranges. Spain is very safe and offers a high quality of life. Therefore, it is a perfect spot for the best.budget friendly.beach destinations europe.
Italy: Sicily and Southern Charm
Italy has more history and culture packed into it than many other countries. However, the north can be very expensive. Therefore, I recommend that you head south to Sicily. I found that prices there are very low compared to other big Italian cities. Both Catania and Palermo have everything a traveler might need. Additionally, you can even ski on Mount Etna during the right season. I also loved the city of Syracuse with its winding streets and great restaurants.
On top of that, you should visit Vieste in southern Italy. It is located on the Adriatic and features many inexpensive agritourismos. I saw beautiful beaches and national parks there. Plus, the food is always great in this region. Italy also offers many free activities in Rome and Milan. I found that walking through public parks and visiting churches are great ways to save money. Later, I realized that Italian coffee culture is something everyone must experience. Finally, the southern part of the country feels more down-to-earth.
Lithuania: Hidden Baltic Gems
Lithuania is a fascinating state with glorious beaches and medieval towns. I recommend that you visit Kaunas. It is a mid-sized city that is perfect for culture lovers. I found amazing street art and modernist architecture there. Plus, it is currently 31 percent cheaper to fly there than it was in 2024. Additionally, the capital city of Vilnius is one of the best budget friendly cities in europe for Christmas markets.
On top of that, Lithuania is very safe and has beautiful natural scenery. I found that the people are very friendly. Lithuania also has a quietly cool creative scene. Similarly, the Baltic states are a great choice if you want to go off the beaten path. Budget travelers can find affordable accommodation and food across the country. Therefore, it is one of the best budget friendly destinations in europe for 2026. Finally, I suggest you try the local cuisine which is hearty and delicious.
United Kingdom: The Secret of Hull
You might be surprised to see the UK on this list. London is one of the most expensive cities on the planet. However, I found that London is also the top destination for free things to do. All state-operated museums like the British Museum are free to enter. But if you want a truly affordable experience, you should head to Kingston upon Hull. It is often called Liverpool’s cooler sibling.
I found a lively Museum Quarter and a great pub culture there. The local aquarium, called The Deep, is one of the largest in the UK. Additionally, a 3-star hotel in Hull costs only about $66 per night. Plus, the phone boxes there are cream-colored instead of red, which is very unique. Hull is a hidden gem that has yet to be discovered by most tourists. Therefore, it is a great choice for the best budget friendly cities to visit in europe if you want northern hospitality. Finally, I recommend you visit the oldest pub in town, Ye Olde White Harte.
How to Travel Europe on a Budget
Planning a trip on a shoestring budget is easier than you think. First of all, I highly recommend that you travel by bus. Buses like FlixBus can be 80-90% cheaper than train tickets. I once traveled from Paris to London for less than the price of a small meal. Additionally, buses often go to hidden gems that trains miss. Plus, they are a very safe way to travel because your luggage is stored securely underneath the vehicle.
Later, you should look into budget airlines. Carriers like Ryanair and EasyJet offer incredibly low fares if you book in advance. I have found tickets from Munich to London for only 10 euros. However, you must remember that you get what you pay for. This means you will have limited legroom and extra fees for bags. On top of that, you can use a service like BlaBlaCar to carpool with others. It is a great way to save on gas and meet new people. Finally, always track your expenses in an app so you do not go over your budget.
Best Budget Friendly Ski Resorts and More
If you are looking for the best budget friendly ski resorts in europe, you should look toward the East. Prices in the Carpathian Mountains are much lower than in the Alps. I visited Poiana Brasov in Romania and Zakopane in Poland for great value skiing. Additionally, Slovenia has the Kranjska Gora resort which is a cheap alternative to expensive destinations. Plus, you can find great winter sport areas in Norway and Sweden that are very family-oriented.
Similarly, the best cheap destinations in europe summer are often found in the Balkans. Cities like Pristina and Skopje have proven to be the most affordable. I found that accommodation, food, and transport are all very cheap there. Therefore, if you want to avoid “eye-watering” hotel prices, you should head to these up-and-coming cities. Gradually, I realized that the best memories are free and make the best souvenirs. You should fill your soul with experiences rather than your suitcase with expensive items.
FAQ
Which country in Europe is most affordable to visit?
Georgia is the winner for your wallet. I found that a budget of $45 to $70 per day is usually enough there. At that time, I was amazed by how little I spent on incredible food and sights.
Is $100 a day enough in Europe?
Yes, $100 per day is plenty for many destinations in the East. An economic budget of roughly €80 per day covers your bed, meals, and transport comfortably. However, you must choose your cities wisely.
Where is the best affordable city break in Europe?
Pristina, Skopje, and Sarajevo are the top three winners for a cheap weekend away. These cities offer a mix of affordable hotels and low-cost food. A dream for your wallet.
What is the cheapest and safest country to visit?
Slovenia and Montenegro are fantastic choices. These countries are safe for mature travelers and offer great value for your money. Plus, the nature is beautiful.
Which country is best for travel in low budget?
Georgia is the best choice for low budgets. Most people do not realize how beautiful and cheap it is until they visit.
What is the cheapest month to fly to Europe?
Winter months outside of the major holidays are the cheapest for flights. Later, in September and October, you can find lower prices as the summer crowds vanish.
What is the cheapest way to travel around Europe?
Buses are the secret weapon for any budget traveler. I found that bus fares are often 80% to 90% cheaper than the price of a train ticket. The secret to saving.
Is 1000 euros enough for 2 weeks in Europe?
It is close to being enough. A typical backpacker budget for two weeks is about €1,120, so you must watch your spending carefully.
Is $5000 enough for a vacation?
Yes, $5000 is a generous budget. Even a luxury trip for two weeks costs around €5,320, so $5000 will easily cover an intermediate or budget vacation.
What are the top 5 most visited cities in Europe?
London, Paris, Madrid, Rome, and Barcelona are the giants of European tourism. These cities also happen to offer a high number of free activities for visitors.
Where to go for a 3 day trip to Europe?
I recommend a city break to Pristina or Skopje. These Balkan cities are perfect for a short trip because they are small, affordable, and full of history. History at every corner.
Which city is the cheapest to fly to Europe?
Cologne in Germany is a top choice right now. Flight prices there have dropped by 44% compared to last year.
Which countries are not worth visiting?
This depends on your goals, but TheStyleGene notes that Greece is tough for a long stay if you are not rich. Similarly, countries with political instability might not be worth the risk for some.
What is the least expensive country to fly to?
Lithuania is one of the most affordable to reach by air. It is 31% cheaper to fly to Kaunas than it was a year ago.
What is the no. 1 safest country?
The Nordic countries and Switzerland hold the title for the safest regions in all of Europe.
What is the most affordable country in Europe?
Georgia remains the most affordable choice for travelers. I could live well on $45 a day.
Which country is no. 1 for tourism?
France is the most popular destination in the world. It attracts millions of people every year with its culture and history.
How do I plan a budget-friendly trip?
First of all, you should plan your route in advance to avoid surprises. Additionally, you must track your expenses in an app and try to go off the beaten track.
Concluding words
Europe is a continent full of history and beauty that does not have to cost a fortune. I have shared these 16 destinations to prove that you can see amazing places like Georgia or Albania on a low budget.
Plus, you can use buses and budget airlines to keep your travel costs down. Therefore, you should start planning your affordable European adventure today. Finally, remember that the best memories are free, so fill your soul instead of your suitcase.
