I am a traveler who has spent years wandering across the diverse landscapes of the European continent. March is a month that I consider to be the perfect sweet spot for budget explorers. The harsh chill of winter begins to fade, but the massive crowds of the summer season have not yet arrived. I have found that travel costs drop significantly during this shoulder period, which means your money stretches much further. Whether you seek the warmth of a southern beach or the historic charm of an ancient city, March delivers incredible value. I want to share my personal list of the 10 Best Cheap Places To Travel in Europe in March. These are destinations where I have experienced rich culture and stunning views without breaking the bank.
Albania: The Hidden Gem of the Balkans
First of all, I must talk about Albania. For a long time, this country remained off the radar for many travelers, but it is finally getting the attention it deserves. It is currently one of the top 10 cheapest countries to visit in europe. I was pleasantly surprised by the mix of pristine beaches and epic mountain ranges when I first visited.
In March, the capital city of Tirana is vibrant and young. I suggest you visit the Bunk’art 1 museum. It is a former Cold War bunker that provides a deep look into the history of the country for an entry fee of only about £4. However, the city is not just about the past. The youth culture is booming, and the average inhabitant is only 32 years old. I love to wander through the Blloku area to see the street art and grab a coffee.
If you prefer the coast, the Albanian Riviera is legendary. Though it is not yet summer, the coastal views are breathtaking. I have found that you can live comfortably on a recommended budget per day of only $30 to $50.
- Average pint of beer: €1.65.
- Hostel bed: $10 to $20 per night.
- Street food meal: $1 to $2.
The hospitality of the locals is genuine. Additionally, it is legal to camp anywhere in Albania, so you can save even more money if you have a tent or a campervan. It is truly the cheapest country to visit in europe in january or March if you want to avoid the high-end prices of Greece or Italy.
North Macedonia: A Land of Idyllic Villages
Later, I moved on to North Macedonia. I simply cannot believe how little I had heard about this country before I went there. It is perhaps the biggest hidden gem in Europe. The natural beauty of the mountains and lakes blew me away.
The capital, Skopje, is a fascinating place packed with recent history. I spent five days there living and exploring. I highly recommend the free three-hour walking tour. I learned about the birthplace of Mother Theresa and the complex relations the nation has with its neighbors.
The crown jewel of the country is Lake Ohrid. It is one of the deepest and oldest lakes in all of Europe. The town of Ohrid is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that I found to be incredibly peaceful in March.
- Average daily budget: €30.
- Meal at a restaurant: $4 to $12.
- Hotel room: $25 to $45 per night.
Therefore, if you do not mind staying away from the ocean, this is a perfect choice. The prices are among the lowest I have ever seen on the continent.
Bulgaria: History and Affordable Winter Sports
Similarly, Bulgaria offers remarkable value for mature travelers. I have visited this country during several different seasons. In March, you get a unique mix of experiences. You can still visit ski resorts like Bansko or Borovets, which are regularly ranked as the best-value spots for winter sports in Europe.
The capital city, Sofia, is another place where you can explore almost everything on foot. I enjoyed the blend of Ottoman, Roman, and Byzantine ruins that are scattered throughout the streets. Many of these landmarks can be discovered for free. I recommend the Patriarchal Cathedral St. Alexander Nevsky for its stunning architecture.
On top of that, the food scene is excellent for budget travelers. I joined the free Balkan Bites Food Tour, which provides complimentary samples of traditional Bulgarian dishes. It was enough food to replace my lunch!
- Average daily budget: $30 to $50.
- Corporate tax rate: A flat 10%, which makes it a safe and predictable environment for business too.
- Public transport ticket: €0.83.
Gradually, Bulgaria is becoming a top choice for digital nomads. It even launched a new digital nomad visa recently. It is definitely one of the 12 cheapest countries to visit in europe to keep on your list for 2026.
Romania: Castles and Wellness
Additionally, Romania is a place that is very close to my heart. I once road-tripped through the country for three weeks in a campervan. The medieval castles and fairytale landscapes are something you must see at least once.
If you visit the capital, Bucharest, you must spend time at the Therme Bucharest. It is one of the most popular wellness centers in the city. It features mineral pools and saunas. I found that a three-hour session can cost as little as £12. This is a great way to enjoy a spa break without paying the luxury prices of Western Europe.
For history lovers, Bran Castle, also known as Dracula’s Castle, is an essential stop. The entry fee is only about $11. However, I suggest you also head to Brasov to see the charming old town.
- Average daily budget: $40 to $60.
- Hostel bed: $15 to $25.
- Meal at a restaurant: $7 to $21.
Therefore, Romania is one of the cheapest countries to visit in europe 2026. I often tell my friends that it was cheaper for me to fly a group of people to Bucharest for a weekend than it was to stay one night in the UK.
Bosnia and Herzegovina: The Crossroads of Cultures
First of all, Sarajevo is a city that feels like a crossroad between the East and the West. I love the skyline here because you can see medieval mosques and neo-Gothic cathedrals within a short walk of each other. The city still carries the scars of the 1990s war, such as the Tunnel of Hope. It is an eerie but necessary site to visit.
I am a big fan of the coffee scene in Sarajevo. Locals often start their day with a strong, unfiltered coffee brewed in a copper pot called a džezva. You can find very cheap coffee at the cafes in the Baščaršija bazaar. I also suggest trying ćevapi kebabs for a filling and inexpensive meal.
On the contrary to many Western cities, Sarajevo is a place that does not demand you spend a lot of money. You can wander the streets for hours and never get bored.
- Average daily budget: $45 to $65.
- Inexpensive meal: About £6.74.
- Hotel room in the city center: Starting around £55 per night.
Gradually, I realized that Bosnia is one of the best off-the-beaten-track destinations in Europe. It is a great place to find hidden gems and enjoy authentic culture.
Poland: A Journey Through History
Also, Poland is a country that I have developed a soft spot for over the years. I have visited in all seasons and discovered that it is a modern and exciting place to be. It does not have the hefty price tags of nearby countries like Germany.
Kraków is easily one of my favorite cities. The Old Town was one of the first UNESCO World Heritage Sites ever chosen. It has the largest market square in Europe. I spent a day wandering around Nowa Huta, which is a huge green space with socialist-style buildings.
If you are interested in history, a visit to Auschwitz is essential. It is not a joyful experience, but it is very eye-opening. I found the day to be very sad but important for understanding the past.
- Average daily budget: $35 to $55.
- Average pint of beer: €3.00.
- One-way public transport ticket: About £1.25.
Plus, the city is very walkable, which helps cut transport costs. I often recommend Kraków as one of the cheapest cities in europe for students or anyone on a tight budget.
Hungary: The City of Spas
Additionally, I must mention Budapest. It is a charming city with a very low cost of living compared to other capitals. March is a great time to visit because you can enjoy the famous thermal baths after a day of sightseeing.
I suggest you look beyond the most famous baths. While Széchenyi is popular, the Dandár Thermal Baths are much more affordable. I found tickets there for just over £6. I also love the Central Market Hall for finding local food at great prices.
One of my favorite experiences was a one-hour evening sightseeing cruise on the river. It was surprisingly cheap and even included free wine!
- Average daily budget: $40 to $60.
- Average pint of beer: About £2.30.
- Hostel bed: $20 to $30 per night.
Therefore, Hungary is a fantastic country for a cheap getaway. It is well connected by trains and buses, making it easy to travel to nearby cities like Eger.
Portugal: Atlantic Charm and Affordable Culture
Though it is located in Western Europe, Portugal remains surprisingly affordable. I found that if you avoid the most expensive tourist traps, you get plenty of value for your money.
Lisbon is a city shaped by discovery and creativity. In March, the city begins to warm up with plenty of sunshine. I love taking the iconic yellow trams to climb the steep hills. It is a very walkable city, and I spent hours wandering through neighborhoods like Alfama for free.
First of all, I suggest you go for lunch instead of dinner at restaurants. Many places offer a prato do dia (dish of the day) for only $6 to $8.
- Average daily budget: $45 to $65.
- Pastéis de Nata (custard tart): About $1.
- Boutique hostel bed: €20 to €25.
Later, I discovered that even the Algarve coast is affordable in March. It is the perfect time to see the beaches without the summer prices. It is one of the cheap europe trips for students who want culture and coastal beauty.
Tenerife, Spain: The Island of Eternal Spring
If you are looking for cheap destinations in europe with beach weather in March, Tenerife is your best bet. It sits far south, closer to Morocco than to mainland Spain. This means the climate is mild all year round. March feels like early summer here.
I spent almost a month in Tenerife and found it to be incredibly relaxing. The atmosphere is very easygoing, and the food is inexpensive. I enjoyed day trips to Mount Teide, which is a massive volcano that towers over the island.
However, Tenerife is not just about the beach. It is a paradise for hikers. I hiked on volcanic trails and went whale watching between the islands.
- 3-star hotels from: $88 per night for two people.
- Car rental average: Around €24 per day.
- Public bus ticket: About €1.50.
Finally, I must mention that other islands like Gran Canaria and Lanzarote are also great in March and can be even cheaper. It is one of the best cheap destinations in europe with beach access during the spring.
Greece: Ancient History on a Budget
Additionally, I cannot finish this list without Greece. I have found that Athens is much less expensive than other major European capitals. In March, the weather is warm enough for sightseeing but cool enough that climbing the Acropolis does not feel like a workout in the hot sun.
The hillsides start turning green again in the spring, and the city feels lively without the intense crowds. I enjoyed exploring neighborhoods like Plaka at a slow pace. I also found that the restaurant scene offers some of the best values in Europe for fresh food.
On top of that, I discovered that islands like Corfu are very affordable in the off-season. I stayed in a hotel with a stunning sea view for only €24 per night per person in May, and March is even quieter.
- Average daily budget in Athens: €40 to €75.
- Meal at a casual restaurant: Less than €10.
- Street food (gyros): Under €5.
Therefore, Greece is a top choice if you want history and culture. It is one of the top 10 cheapest countries to visit in europe if you choose your locations wisely.
Expert Advice for Budget Travel in March
I have learned several tricks over the years to save even more money. First of all, timing is everything for flights. For March travel, I try to book my tickets about 44 days in advance. I avoid “Spring Break” dates when prices spike.
Additionally, I always use Google Incognito Mode when searching for flights and hotels to prevent price tracking. I also look for accommodations slightly outside of the main tourist squares. I have found that staying just two or three blocks away can cut your costs by 30% to 40%.
However, you should not skip out on once-in-a-lifetime experiences just to save a few dollars. I once regretted not going swimming with dolphins because I was being too frugal at the end of a trip. A small extra cost is often worth the memory.
Plus, I highly recommend staying in luxury hostels. These are not the seedy dorms of the past. Many of them have beautiful designs, private ensuite rooms, and even swimming pools or saunas. I have stayed in hostels in Berlin and Florence that felt better than many four-star hotels.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which European country is best to visit during March?
I believe the Canary Islands are the best choice because the weather feels like early summer. Lisbon is also a top contender as the city begins to warm up and remains very relaxed.
Is it cheap to travel to Europe in March?
Yes, it is very cheap because it is the shoulder season. You will find that travel costs drop significantly and hotels offer better rates.
Which country is the cheapest to visit in March?
Albania is widely considered the cheapest destination. North Macedonia is another ultra-cheap option where a daily budget of €30 is possible.
Which part of Europe is the cheapest to visit?
The Eastern European countries are generally the most affordable parts of the continent. Prices are usually higher in the northwest and lower in the southeast.
Where is hot in March and cheap?
Tenerife is reliably warm and inexpensive during this time. Antalya in Turkey is also a perfect warm and cheap spring holiday spot.
What is the prettiest European country?
I find the Lauterbrunnen Valley in Switzerland to be the most beautiful area, but the natural landscapes of Albania also offer stunning beauty.
Where is good for a city break in March in Europe?
Rome, Paris, Barcelona, and Lisbon are all excellent for city breaks because they are lively but not yet crowded.
Is $5000 enough for a vacation? Yes, $5000 is plenty for a long trip since many great spots only cost $25 to $45 a day. At that rate, you could travel for well over a month.
What is the cheapest month to go to Europe?
January and February are often the cheapest months for flights and hotels. March is also very affordable before the Easter rush begins.
Which international trip is best in March?
I recommend Vietnam as a top global budget trip, but the Canary Islands are the best within Europe for spring sun.
What is the most affordable country in Europe?
Albania consistently ranks as the most affordable country for travelers.
How do I plan a budget friendly trip?
You should book flights about 44 days in advance and use Google Incognito Mode to find lower prices. You should also eat where locals eat to save money on food.
Where to go for a 3 day trip to Europe?
I suggest walkable cities like Madrid, Porto, or Athens for a quick three-day break.
Is $100 a day enough in Europe?
Yes, $100 a day is more than enough for budget or mid-range travel in most European countries.
Where to fly in Europe cheapest?
Paris, France often serves as the cheapest entry point for international travelers from the United States.
Concluding words
March is a wonderful time to see Europe because you can enjoy rich culture and warm weather without the high summer prices. Countries like Albania, Portugal, and Bulgaria offer amazing value for mature travelers.
You can experience ancient history, luxury hostels, and thermal baths while you stay on a budget. I hope these tips help you plan a trip that is both memorable and affordable this spring.
