I love the feeling of Europe in December. The crisp air. The twinkling lights. The smell of roasted nuts on every corner. Most people think that a trip to Europe during the festive season must cost a fortune. However, I have found that you can explore some of the most beautiful spots on a tiny budget if you know where to go. This is my personal A Guide To Cheap Places To Travel in December Europe to help you plan a trip that is both magical and affordable.
Europe in winter is a hidden secret for smart travelers. First of all, the massive summer crowds are gone. You do not have to fight through a sea of selfie sticks just to see a famous building. Additionally, many places offer prices that are 40% to 60% lower than what you would see in July. Whether you want to hide from the cold on a sunny beach or drink mulled wine in a snowy square, there is a perfect spot for you.
Why You Should Choose Cheap Winter Destinations Europe
You might wonder why anyone would leave their warm home to visit a cold continent. The truth is that winter transforms these cities into something special. Cheap winter destinations europe offer more than just low prices; they offer an authentic experience that the summer tourists never see. At that time, locals are more relaxed and have more time to talk to you. Plus, you can find flights and hotels for a fraction of the usual cost.
If you plan carefully, you can enjoy a full weekend for as little as £253 for two people. Prices like these make Europe one of the best choices for a late-year getaway. Gradually, I realized that I do not need a huge bank account to see the world. On top of that, I can enjoy luxury for less. For example, a five-star hotel in some Eastern European cities can cost less than a budget room in London or Paris.
The Best Places for Winter Sun without the High Price Tag
I know that not everyone loves the snow. Some of us just want to find a cheap destinations in europe with beach where we can wear a light jacket instead of a heavy coat. Southern Europe is the answer for those seeking warmth.
The Algarve, Portugal
The Algarve is a stunning region in southern Portugal. I often suggest this spot because it has over 300 days of sunshine every year. Though it is not hot enough for a swim, the daytime temperatures stay around 15°C to 18°C. The golden cliffs. The quiet shores. It is a peaceful paradise.
During December, hotel prices here can drop by 50%. I found that you can stay in a lovely apartment for very little money. Additionally, the food is a steal. You can get a fresh seafood meal for under $15 in many local spots. Therefore, it is one of the best cheap destinations in europe with beach for a slow and relaxing trip.
Alicante and Costa Blanca, Spain
I recently spent time in the Costa Blanca region, and the prices shocked me in a good way. I booked a full week in Torrevieja for only €330 and a week in Benidorm for €380. On top of that, a rental car cost me only €40 for the entire week. This area is incredibly dry and sunny during the winter.
The long boardwalks are perfect for afternoon walks. The sunsets are some of the best I have ever seen. You should avoid the week of Christmas if you want these low rates, as that is the only time prices go up. Similarly, you can find great deals in nearby Valencia, where a three-course meal with wine can cost only £46.68 for two people.
Cyprus: Larnaca and Limassol
Cyprus is located far to the south, which makes it one of the warmest places in Europe in December. I love that it feels like spring even in the middle of winter. You can expect temperatures around 17°C to 20°C. Additionally, the island has 340 days of sun a year.
In Larnaca, you can see thousands of pink flamingos at the Salt Lake between November and March. It is a nature lover’s dream. However, if you prefer history, the Church of St Lazarus is a 9th-century masterpiece that you must visit. In Limassol, you can find Gyros for under $10 and rooms starting at $81. It is truly a hidden gem for budget travelers.
Top 10 Cheapest Countries to Visit in Europe for a Festive Experience
If you want the full “Christmas” feeling with markets and snow, you need to head East. I have looked at the data, and the top 10 cheapest countries to visit in europe are almost all in the Eastern region.
Latvia: The King of Value
Riga is currently the best value city in Europe. A full trip for two people, including hotel, meals, and drinks, costs about £252.63. The Christmas market in Dome Square is legendary. It is said that the tradition of the decorated Christmas tree started right here in 1510.
I love wandering through the stalls with a cup of mulled wine fortified with Riga Black Balsam. You can buy hand-knitted socks and carved wooden spoons for very low prices. The Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site and looks like a fairy tale when it is dusted with snow.
Lithuania: A Close Second
Vilnius is another fantastic choice for the 12 cheapest countries to visit in europe. It is often just a few pounds more expensive than Riga. The city is famous for its massive and unique Christmas tree in Cathedral Square, which has a new theme every year.
You can find a meal for two with wine for about £64.18. The hotels are also very affordable, with two nights in a three-star hotel costing around £143. Plus, the city is very walkable. You can easily see the spires and domes of the Old Town on foot.
Poland: The Land of Variety
Poland is one of the cheapest countries to visit in europe 2026 because it has so many affordable cities. Warsaw, Krakow, and Gdansk are all in the top 10 for value. In Krakow, a daily budget of €30 to €40 per person is all you need.
I spent a few days in Wroclaw, and its Christmas market is one of the most beautiful I have ever seen. It has a “Fairytale Copse” where kids can see characters like Snow White and Pinocchio. Additionally, you can go on a hunt for the hundreds of tiny dwarf statues hidden around the city. First of all, try the oscypek (smoked cheese with jam) at the market; it is a delicious local treat.
Bulgaria: Sofia and Budget Skiing
Sofia is one of the cheapest capitals on the continent. You can spend a full weekend there for about €110 to €230 for two people. The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral looks incredible against a snowy sky. On top of that, if you like to ski, Bansko is the cheapest resort in Europe.
In Bansko, you can find beer for £1 and ski passes for less than £50. It is an amazing place for those who want a “luxury” ski trip on a budget. Therefore, Bulgaria is a top pick for active travelers.
Romania: Timisoara and Sibiu
Romania is perfect if you want to see castles and old-world charm without spending a lot. Timisoara is a great December choice because it stays affordable even during the holidays. You can find a room in a boutique hotel for €50 to €60 per night.
Sibiu hosts a large market in its main square, Piata Mare. They even have a big wheel and an ice rink. I love that they test the mulled wine to make sure it stays strong while it simmers. Additionally, the view of the red roofs against the snowy mountains is something I will never forget.
The Cheapest European Cities for Food and Drink
If you are like me, you travel with your stomach. Finding the cheapest european cities for food and drink is a big part of my planning process.
In Lisbon and Porto, Portugal, you can find the best food deals in Western Europe. A three-course meal for two with wine in Lisbon is only £46.68. In Porto, you must try the Francesinha sandwich; it is a local legend. Additionally, you can cross the Dom Luis I Bridge for free and see the best views of the city.
Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, is another winner for foodies. You can get a plate of ćevapi (grilled meat sausages) for as little as €3 to €6. The city has a unique mix of Ottoman and European cultures. First of all, have a cup of traditional Bosnian coffee in a cozy café; it is the perfect way to warm up.
In Budapest, Hungary, you can eat a hearty bowl of goulash and then relax in a thermal bath for about €20. The Széchenyi thermal baths are magical when it is snowing outside. On top of that, the “ruin bars” in the Jewish Quarter offer local beer for only €2 to €3.
Cheapest Cities in Europe for Students and Young Travelers
Young travelers on a tight budget should look for cities with low daily costs. Sofia and Krakow are often called the cheapest cities in europe for students. In Sofia, the metro costs only €0.80 per ride. In Krakow, many museums offer free entry on certain days of the week.
Berlin is also a great option in January and February. While it is not as cheap as Poland, hotel prices drop massively after the New Year. It is a city full of history and free walking tours. You can spend hours in the museums or just explore the cool neighborhoods of Mitte and Kreuzberg.
My Personal Tips for Planning Your Trip
You can save even more money if you follow a few simple rules I have learned over the years. First of all, you should book your flights at least six to eight weeks in advance. Flying on a Wednesday instead of a weekend can save you nearly $100 per ticket.
Additionally, I always suggest using a tool like Google Flights to track prices. You can set an alert and wait for the price to drop before you buy. However, you should remember that budget airlines like Ryanair and EasyJet often have hidden fees for bags. Pack lightly to avoid these extra costs.
When you arrive in a city, stay away from the restaurants right next to famous landmarks. These are often “tourist traps” with high prices and low-quality food. If you walk just five minutes away, you will find where the locals eat for half the price.
Statistical Breakdown of Winter Costs
To help you understand the value, I have put together some numbers from the 2025 data. These are the total costs for a weekend trip for two people, including hotel, meals, and transport:
- Riga, Latvia: £252.63
- Vilnius, Lithuania: £254.32
- Warsaw, Poland: £277.39
- Podgorica, Montenegro: £281.70
- Lisbon, Portugal: £292.27
As you can see, your money goes a long way in these cities. Therefore, you can enjoy a high-quality vacation without the stress of overspending.
FAQ
What is the cheapest country to travel in Europe in December?
Albania is considered the “budget winner” for December, offering rock-bottom prices, mild coastal weather, and uncrowded archaeological sites. Bulgaria is also a top contender, with Sofia consistently ranking as one of the most affordable capitals on the continent.
Which part of Europe is best to travel in December?
It depends on your preference: Eastern Europe and the Baltic states are best for traditional Christmas markets and festive atmospheres. For travelers seeking warmth and “winter sun,” Southern Europe—including the Canary Islands, Cyprus, and the Algarve—is the ideal choice.
Which country is the cheapest to visit in December?
Albania offers the best value for shoestring budgets during this month. Additionally, Latvia is highly affordable; its capital, Riga, was recently ranked as the best-value city for a short break in 2025.
Which part of Europe is the cheapest to visit?
Eastern Europe consistently leads for the best value in accommodation, meals, and attractions. The Balkans are also highlighted as a region where your money goes significantly further compared to Western Europe.
What is the cheapest city in Europe for Christmas?
Riga, Latvia, has been recognized as one of the most affordable cities for a Christmas market trip. Gdansk, Poland, is also noted as an exceptionally cheap destination for a festive day trip.
Where to go for a 3 day trip to Europe?
Compact and walkable cities like Tallinn, Estonia, and Athens, Greece, are perfect for short breaks of two to four days. Valencia, Spain, is another great option, offering a mix of history and beaches that can be enjoyed in a 3-day itinerary.
Which city in Europe is best for Christmas?
Zagreb, Croatia, is famous for its world-class Christmas market, which transforms the city into a winter fairy tale. Wroclaw, Poland, and Sibiu, Romania, are also highly recommended for their beautiful settings and authentic festive traditions.
Which Schengen country is best to visit in December?
Latvia is a top choice as Riga is currently the #1 cheapest city for a break within the Schengen area. For warmth within Schengen, Spain is excellent, particularly the Canary Islands and Andalusia.
Where is it hot in December and cheap?
Tenerife, Spain, offers reliable warmth with temperatures around 21°C and lower off-season prices. Cyprus is another affordable “hidden gem” with mild weather, while Antalya, Turkey, provides a cheap Mediterranean escape with temperatures reaching 16-17°C.
Where is a cheap holiday in December?
Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Sofia, Bulgaria, are both excellent for a cheap winter holiday, offering unique cultural blends and very low daily costs.
Which international trip is best in December?
A trip to Turkey is highly recommended because prices drop dramatically for all-inclusive hotels and city breaks in Istanbul or Antalya. Malta is also a great international choice for its peaceful atmosphere and mild winter temperatures.
Concluding words
Traveling to Europe in December is highly affordable if you choose destinations in Eastern Europe or the Balkans, such as Latvia, Poland, and Albania. For those seeking warmth, Southern Spain, Portugal, and Cyprus offer mild climates at a fraction of their summer costs.
Whether you visit festive Christmas markets in Riga or ski in budget-friendly resorts like Bansko, December provides a unique opportunity to enjoy authentic European culture without the peak-season crowds.
