I have traveled through every country in Europe over the last thirty years, and I am here to tell you that September is the absolute best time to explore the continent. The summer rush is over. Airlines start dropping their prices. It is the perfect time to snag a deal. I find that the weather remains warm and pleasant, but you avoid the oppressive heat of July. The Mediterranean waters are at their warmest after soaking up the summer sun. You get to see each place in its true form because the massive tourist wave is gone. This is my guide to the Most Popular Cheap Places To Travel in Europe in September.
Why September is the Magic Month
I call September the sleeper hit of travel months. While everyone else fights for space in August, I wait for the crowds to thin. One in four trips made by Europeans happen in July or August. By September, the atmosphere is lighter and more relaxed. I feel the islands breathing again. Additionally, the sea temperature in places like Cyprus reaches a perfect 27.7°C (81.8°F).
Wait until you see the prices. They drop fast. Flights and hotels are much more reasonable than in high season. Plus, locals are more relaxed and open for personal interactions. I once sat with a waiter in a Greek taverna for an hour just talking about the olive harvest. He did not have ten other tables to rush to. It was authentic. It was real.
The Top 10 Cheapest Countries to Visit in Europe
If you want your money to stretch far, you must look at Eastern Europe. These countries are incredible to visit. I have explored all of them, and the value is unbeatable.
Albania: The Coastal Hidden Gem
Albania is one of the cheapest countries to visit in Europe 2026. I was shocked by its beauty during my first visit in 2022. It is one of the sunniest spots in Europe, which makes it a perfect cheap europe trip for students or mature couples.
- Daily Budget: $30 to $50.
- Hostel Bed: $10 to $20 per night.
- Hotel Room: $20 to $40 per night.
- Street Food: $1 to $2.
I love the Albanian Riviera. It is my favorite spot. You can find pristine beaches like Ksamil and Gjipe Bay. The water is crystal clear. The white cliffs are dramatic. On top of that, it is legal to camp anywhere in Albania. You can save a lot of money if you have a tent or a van. Later, you should head to Tirana, the capital. It is full of history and colorful streets. Visit the National History Museum or Skanderbeg Square.
North Macedonia: Europe’s Best Kept Secret
I simply cannot believe how little people talk about this country. It is perhaps the biggest hidden gem in Europe. It is not hit by hordes of tourists yet.
- Daily Budget: $30 to $50.
- Street Food: $1 to $2.
- Restaurant Meal: $4 to $12.
I spent five days in Skopje, the capital. It is packed with history. The walking tours are often free, and they are fascinating. You learn about Alexander the Great and Mother Teresa. However, the real star is Lake Ohrid. It is one of the oldest and deepest lakes in Europe. I recommend kayaking through Matka Canyon or hiking in Pelister National Park. The food is a mix of Balkan and Mediterranean flavors. Try the ajvar or the tavče gravče. You will love it.
Bosnia & Herzegovina: A Land of Resilience
Bosnia is one of the more off-the-beaten-track destinations. I have traveled through it twice. Every street in Sarajevo or Mostar tells a story of survival and history.
- Daily Budget: $45 to $65.
- Hostel: $15 to $25.
- Cevapi Plate: Around €4.
I watched the bridge jumpers at the iconic Stari Most in Mostar. It is breathtaking. To save money, shop at the local markets for fresh produce. Sarajevo’s Baščaršija is a maze of bazaars and smoky cafes. Additionally, the train ride between Sarajevo and Mostar is one of the most beautiful in the world. Tickets start at just $6. I also recommend visiting Kravice Falls for spectacular landscapes.
Serbia: Heart of the Balkans
Serbia is often overlooked, but it is one of the cheapest western european countries to visit if you consider its location at the crossroads. It is also one of the least visited countries.
- Daily Budget: $40 to $60.
- Hotel: $25 to $45.
- Sim Cards: Extremely cheap with great data.
I started my trip in Belgrade. It is a bustling capital where the Danube meets the Sava. You can visit the Kalemegdan Fortress or take a dip in the river. The nightlife on floating river clubs is famous. However, the national parks like Tara and Fruška Gora are the real highlights. They offer stunning mountain views. Similarly, the city of Novi Sad is relaxed and has a great bar scene.
Romania: Castles and Spas
Romania is close to my heart. It is easily one of the top 10 cheapest countries to visit in europe. I spent three weeks road-tripping here in a camper.
- Daily Budget: $40 to $60.
- Hotel: $25 to $45.
- Ridesharing: Use BlaBlaCar to cut costs.
I visited Bucharest, the capital. It has the world’s largest parliament building. But my favorite part was the Therme Spa. It was cheaper to fly my friends to Bucharest and go to this spa for a day than to stay one night in the UK. Plus, you must see Bran Castle, which people associate with Dracula. If you want to explore further, head to the Salina Turda underground salt mine or Peles Castle.
Bulgaria: Beach and Ski Resorts
Bulgaria is one of the cheapest european countries to visit in summer. It borders the Black Sea and has incredible beaches.
- Daily Budget: $30 to $50.
- Hotel: $25 to $45.
- Festivals: Many are free throughout the year.
I visited in October, and it was still fantastic with autumn colors. Sunny Beach is a popular party spot with very cheap deals. For a more cultural trip, stay in Sofia. It has incredible architecture. I also loved the Belogradchik Fortress. The rock formations there are unlike anything else. On top of that, Pirin National Park offers great hiking trails.
Poland: A Modern Favorite
Poland is a country I have a strange soft spot for. It is an up-and-coming destination. It feels modern but does not have the high price tags of Germany.
- Daily Budget: $35 to $55.
- Hotel: $25 to $45.
- Car Rentals: Very affordable for exploring.
I recommend Krakow and Warsaw. Krakow is beautiful and feels very safe for solo travelers. I also suggest Wroclaw, which people call the “Venice of Poland” because of its islands and bridges. You can eat and drink for under £20 a day there. Similarly, you can find meals in Krakow for less than £10. Do not miss Auschwitz; it is a sad but eye-opening experience.
Hungary: Thermal Baths and Wine
Hungary is perfect for a cheap getaway. It is well connected by trains and buses.
- Daily Budget: $40 to $60.
- Sightseeing Cruise: Very cheap and often includes wine.
- Walking: Most cities are very walkable, which saves on transport.
I started in Budapest. The Parliament building is stunning. I took a night cruise on the river and it was a highlight. Later, I went to Miskolc. It has famous Cave Baths that are reopening after a revamp. If you like wine, visit the Tokaj region. The hills are golden in September. You can tour centuries-old castle cellars.
Montenegro: Breathtaking Views
Montenegro is a powerhouse of natural beauty. It is one of the cheapest countries to visit in europe with stunning coastal views.
- Daily Budget: $40 to $60.
- September Perk: Prices are much cheaper than in July.
- Local Beer: Only around £2 to £3.
I loved Kotor. It is a medieval walled city on a breathtaking bay. I recommend staying in small towns outside Kotor for even lower prices. You can also visit Budva for a more lively scene. For nature lovers, Durmitor National Park is a haven for hikers. I even crossed a rickety old bridge to get there from Bosnia. It was an adventure.
Czech Republic: Charm and Culture
The Czech Republic remains very affordable, especially outside of Prague.
- Daily Budget: $35 to $55.
- Travel Tip: Buy bus and train tickets in advance for big discounts.
- Prague Exception: Prague is more expensive than other cities, but still cheaper than Paris.
I have visited many times. Prague has a world-class selection of bars. I walked over the Charles Bridge for free and explored the Old Town Square. However, you should also visit Brno or Český Krumlov. If you like nature, Bohemian Switzerland National Park is a must. It has the largest rock arch in Europe.
More Affordable Destinations for 2026
I want to include a few more places that are part of the 12 cheapest countries to visit in europe. These are often overlooked but offer incredible value.
Lithuania: The Overlooked Beauty
Lithuania is one of the most scenic countries I have seen. It is one of the cheapest cities in europe for students if you stay in Kaunas or Vilnius.
- Daily Budget: $40 to $60.
- Day Budget Tip: Around £43 (€50) covers food, sleep, and transport.
- Wild Camping: This is legal here and saves a ton.
I spent five nights in Vilnius. The Old Town is a UNESCO site with fairytale architecture. It has been called “Vienna meets Paris”. Kaunas is also great and very walkable. It has a cool creative scene. On top of that, you can visit the Curonian Spit for a beautiful coastline.
Latvia: Architecture and Markets
Latvia is another lesser-known destination. You will often have places to yourself.
- Daily Budget: $40 to $60.
- Free Perks: There are plenty of free parks throughout the country.
- Riga: The capital has stunning art nouveau buildings.
I spent a week here after traveling from Lithuania. Riga is the top place to visit. The Central Market is bustling and fun. I also suggest visiting Jurmala for its beach and sea views. Similarly, the country has many spectacular castles like Sigulda and Cesis.
Estonia: History and Nature
Estonia is finally getting the recognition it deserves. It has relatively cheap accommodation and delicious food.
- Daily Budget: $35 to $55.
- Tallinn Card: This gives you free transport and entry to over 50 sights.
- Old Town: Stay here for a few nights to soak in the history.
I spent two weeks here. Tallinn is the main starting point. The cobblestone streets are full of small restaurants. I also recommend the coastal city of Parnu. There are six national parks, and Lahemaa is the most popular. You will find many striking castles like Haapsalu.
Cheap Destinations in Europe with Beach
If you want sun and sand without the price tag of the French Riviera, I have some favorites for you.
Crete, Greece
Crete is a budget-friendly giant. I found that savvy travelers get their Greek fix here without the eye-watering prices of Santorini.
- Hostels: Start at €15 to €20 per night.
- Bus Tickets: Only €2 to €5.
- Insider Tip: Rent a car for €20 to €30 a day in low season.
I loved beach-hopping along the south coast. Elafonisi has pink sand that is just perfect. Most beaches are free. September is ideal because the water is still hot, but the crowds are gone. You can eat at local tavernas for €8 to €12 and get massive portions.
Cyprus: Sun and Split Culture
Cyprus is half Greek and half Turkish, and it is fully affordable.
- Hostels: From €12 in Nicosia.
- Sea Temp: 27.7°C (81.8°F) in September.
- Wine Tasting: Many offer free samples if you buy a cheap bottle.
I enjoyed Nissi Beach and the Troodos Mountains. The north side of the island is even cheaper. I stayed in hotel rooms for €20 there. Additionally, freedom camping is legal in many areas.
Spain: Alicante and Cadiz
Spain has always been incredibly cheap despite being a developed economy.
- Daily Budget: $50 to $70.
- Tapas Tip: Many bars give free tapas when you order a drink.
- Beer Price: Between £2 and £3.50 in Alicante.
I road-tripped the entire coast. I spent less than 5 euros per night on accommodation by using cheap campsites. Alicante is very affordable for a beach getaway. Cadiz is another overlooked gem. It is one of the warmest spots in Spain. I found that a bottle of wine there only costs £3.63.
Western European Value Spots
You do not always have to go east for a deal.
Portugal: The Douro Valley and Porto
Portugal surprised me with how affordable it is.
- Daily Budget: $45 to $65.
- Car Rental: Very cheap, allowing you to save on tours.
- Museums: Many are free on Sundays.
I road-tripped through the Douro Valley. It is astoundingly beautiful in September because it is grape harvest season. You can join in the traditions like grape-stomping. Porto and Lisbon are the main spots, but smaller cities like Viseu offer cheap rentals.
Italy: Tuscany and Sicily
Italy can be expensive, but I know how to do it on a budget. Tuscany is actually ranked as an affordable holiday destination compared to Sardinia.
- Daily Budget: $45 to $65 (for Slovenia, which borders Italy and offers a similar vibe for less).
- Sicily Hostels: From €15 in Palermo.
- Agriturismo: Stay at a farm for a full sensory experience.
Essential Tips for Your 2026 Trip
I have learned some hard lessons on the road. Here is how you can keep your costs low and your stress levels down.
1. Staying Connected
Do not rely on public Wi-Fi in smaller Eastern European cities. It is not always secure. I always use an eSIM. Holafly gives you unlimited data for your trip. You can also try Maaltalk, which covers the whole Balkan region with one setup. It is so much easier than hunting for a local SIM shop.
2. Transport Secrets
Buses are the main budget-friendly way to move around the Balkans. I use Flixbus because it is efficient and affordable. In Georgia, I use GoTrip. It is an intercity service where you pick your driver. It is much cheaper than regular taxis. Plus, you can stop wherever you like for as long as you want without the price going up.
3. Eating Like a Local
Eat where the locals eat. Tourist spots cost more and often taste worse. I love Burek, which is a savory pastry filled with meat or cheese. It only costs €1 or €2 at bakeries. In Greece, stick to gyros for a cheap and delicious meal.
4. Managing Your Money in 2026
The global economy is expected to grow by 2.6% in 2026. Inflation will ease slowly, reaching about 3.1%. Hotel rates are predicted to rise by 4.9% globally. In Europe, that rise might be 5.4%. I suggest booking your favorite hotels early to avoid these hikes.
5. Be Ready for September Weather
September generally offers sunny days, but it is the start of a seasonal change. I have encountered the occasional rain shower. Layering is the key. I always bring a light scarf or a blazer for the cooler evenings.
Georgia: The Ultimate Budget Frontier
If you want to go beyond the usual European borders, Georgia is incredible. I have lived here for years, and it is very budget-friendly.
- Budget Traveler: $30 to $45 per day.
- Mid-range Traveler: $75 to $95 per day.
- Hostel Bed: $8 to $15.
- Khinkali Dumpling: Only about $0.50 to $1 each.
I love Tbilisi, the capital. The public transport is excellent and only costs about 40 cents a ride. You must try the sulfur baths in the Abanotubani district. A private room costs around $50 to $75 per hour. For a real adventure, take a marshrutka (minivan) to the mountains of Svaneti or Kazbegi. The scenery is dramatic.
FAQ
Which part of Europe is best to visit in September?
Southern Europe and the Mediterranean regions are ideal in September because the sea is at its warmest, and the weather remains pleasant without the oppressive heat of peak summer. Albania is specifically noted as one of the sunniest countries for a getaway.
Which country is the cheapest to visit in September?
North Macedonia and Serbia are the most affordable, with average daily budgets starting at €30. Montenegro is also a top choice as accommodation prices become much cheaper during this month.
What is the least expensive European country to visit?
North Macedonia and Serbia share the title for the least expensive, both categorized as “ultra-cheap” with €30 daily budgets.
Where to go for a 3 day trip to Europe?
Affordable and culture-packed city breaks for short trips include Sarajevo (Bosnia), Tirana (Albania), and Krakow (Poland).
What is the cheapest month to go to Europe?
January and November have the lowest tourism demand and shortest stays. However, September is considered the best for deals as airlines drop prices significantly after the summer rush.
Is September a low season in Europe?
No, it is known as the shoulder season, providing a balance between the busy summer and the quiet winter off-season.
Where to go cheap in September?
Albania offers free beaches and affordable food, while North Macedonia remains an “underrated hidden gem” with very low costs. Bulgaria is also recommended for its budget-friendly beach resorts.
What is the top 10 cheapest country?
The top 10 cheapest are North Macedonia, Serbia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Albania, Montenegro, Bulgaria, Romania, Hungary, Poland, and Croatia.
Is $5000 enough for a vacation?
Yes, $5000 (excluding airfare) is considered “more than enough” for a solo traveler for a week or two, even in more popular destinations like Greece.
How to visit Europe cheaply?
You can save money by staying in hostels ($10-30/night), eating local street food like burek or gyros, and using budget transport like Flixbus or local “furgons”.
What is the lowest tourism rate in Europe?
January sees the lowest number of trips started by residents. Serbia is also highlighted as one of Europe’s least-visited countries, helping travelers avoid crowds.
Is $100 a day enough in Europe?
Yes, daily budgets for many budget-friendly countries range from $30 to $70, making $100 more than sufficient.
What is the cheapest city break in Europe?
Sarajevo and Tirana are among the most affordable. Krakow is also frequently cited as the most affordable city break destination.
What are the top 3 tourist destinations in Europe?
Traditional hotspots include France, Spain, and Italy, though they are often more expensive than Eastern European alternatives.
How much does a 7 day Europe trip cost?
A budget traveler can spend as little as $210-$315 per week in countries like Georgia. In Greece, a one-week trip including flights and museums can cost under 1,000 EUR.
Concluding words
Traveling to Europe in September offers the perfect combination of warm Mediterranean waters, reduced crowds, and lower prices. The Balkan region, including countries like North Macedonia, Albania, and Bosnia, provides exceptional value with daily budgets as low as €30-€35. This shoulder season allows for authentic experiences and pleasant weather, making it an ideal time for budget-conscious travelers to see the continent.
