I have spent years wandering through the cobblestone streets and hidden corners of the world. Europe is often seen as a playground for the rich, but I have found that this is not the whole truth. It is entirely possible to see the best budget friendly European countries without emptying your bank account. I want to share my personal journey through these places so you can plan your own adventure.
The secret to a great trip is knowing where your money goes further. Europe is ideal for budget travel because it offers diverse cultures, rich history, and incredible attractions across many destinations. You do not need a fortune to see the world. First of all, let us look at the places that offer the most bang for your buck.
Albania: The Hidden Jewel of the Balkans
I was completely shocked when I first visited Albania. It is one of the best budget friendly European countries to visit because it remains largely unspoiled by massive crowds of tourists. The atmosphere is wild. The beaches are blue. The prices? They are remarkably low.
I recommend a daily budget of $30 to $50 for this country. You can find a hostel bed for $10 to $20 or a decent hotel room for $20 to $40 per night. Street food like byrek will only cost you about $1 to $2. If you want a full meal at a restaurant, you will likely spend between $5 and $15.
The Albanian Riviera is my favorite spot. It has crystal-clear waters and picturesque villages that feel like the Mediterranean as it once was. Additionally, it is one of the sunniest places in Europe. If you love mountains, the Albanian Alps in the north offer scenic views and great hiking trails.
“Albania is not only one of the cheapest European countries – but it is also one of the most beautiful,” says seasoned traveler Cazzy Magennis. I agree with her completely.
Pro Tip: It is legal to camp anywhere in Albania. This can save you a lot of money if you have a tent or a campervan.
Furthermore, the capital city, Tirana, is a great starting point. It is full of colorful buildings and history from the Communist era. Bunk’art 1, a museum inside a Cold War bunker, costs only about £4 to enter.
North Macedonia: A Land of Lakes and History
North Macedonia is a true hidden gem. I simply could not believe how affordable it was when I arrived. It is one of the most budget friendly countries to travel in the entire region. The natural beauty here is breathtaking.
You should plan for a budget of $30 to $50 per day. A meal at a local restaurant will cost between $4 and $12. If you are looking for cheap accommodation, hostels are around $15 to $25, while hotels range from $25 to $45.
The capital, Skopje, is fascinating. It has an authentic old town and a very quirky mix of statues and bridges. You can take a free walking tour to learn about the recent history and the birthplace of Mother Teresa. On top of that, the Old Bazaar is one of the oldest in the Balkans and is perfect for wandering.
Lake Ohrid is another must-see. It is one of the oldest and deepest lakes in Europe. The town of Ohrid is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is filled with historic charm.
Bosnia and Herzegovina: History Around Every Corner
I have traveled through Bosnia and Herzegovina twice, and it never fails to move me. The history is layered and visible in the architecture and traditions. It is one of the budget friendly countries where your money stretches the furthest.
A daily budget of $45 to $65 is plenty here. Hostels go for $15 to $25, and hotels stay around $25 to $45. Food is a major highlight. You can fill up on a traditional burek for less than five euros.
Sarajevo, the capital, is remarkably affordable. You can wander the streets for hours and never get bored. The city is at its best in August during the Sarajevo Film Festival. However, Mostar is the city that most people remember. The famous bridge jump is a sight you must see.
To travel between Sarajevo and Mostar, you should take the train. It is one of the most beautiful train rides in the world, and tickets start at just $6.
Serbia: Vibrant Nightlife and Low Costs
Serbia is often overlooked, but I can 100 percent recommend it. It is one of the best budget friendly countries to visit from India or anywhere else because it is less visited and very cheap. The culture is interesting, and the food has a delicious Ottoman influence.
I found that a budget of $40 to $60 per day is quite comfortable. A meal at a restaurant costs between $6 and $18, and street food is only $1 to $2.
Belgrade, the capital, is famous for its energy. The nightlife is thriving, with smoke-filled bars and music venues in old buildings. The Belgrade Fortress is free to visit and offers great views of the rivers. Plus, the Belgrade Beer Festival is a fun event that is completely free to enter.
Additionally, the national parks like Tara and Fruška Gora are stunning and perfect for nature lovers.
Bulgaria: Mountains and Markets
Bulgaria is a fantastic place to explore. It offers a mix of Roman ruins, churches, and lively markets. It is also one of the cheapest European countries for international students who want to travel during their breaks.
I suggest a budget of $30 to $50 per day. Hostels are $15 to $25, and hotels are $25 to $45. A restaurant meal will cost you between $7.50 and $22.50.
Sofia, the capital, is very walkable. You can see Roman ruins and Soviet-era architecture right in the city center. Nearby Vitosha Mountain is great for hiking or skiing. Similarly, the city of Plovdiv is famous for its ancient theater and artsy vibes.
If you love the beach, the Black Sea coast has many budget-friendly resorts. Sunny Beach is popular for its nightlife and cheap deals.
Romania: Castles and Cobblestones
Romania is very close to my heart. I once spent three weeks road-tripping through the country in a camper. It is one of the best budget friendly European countries for anyone who loves stunning landscapes and history.
A daily budget of $40 to $60 is ideal. Hotels are usually $25 to $45, and hostels are $15 to $25. Food is also a bargain. You can find delicious restaurant meals for $7 to $21.
Bucharest is the capital, and while it has big city energy, it remains affordable. However, I think the real magic is in Transylvania. Cities like Brașov and Sighișoara feel like they are from a fairy tale.
“Romania is a real hidden gem,” according to user DonGenove on Reddit. I agree. You must visit Peles Castle; it is one of the most beautiful in Europe.
Travel Tip: Use a ridesharing platform called BlaBlaCar to cut your transport costs in Romania.
Hungary: Spas and Scenery
Hungary is a solid pick for travelers on a budget. Budapest is consistently ranked as one of the most affordable capitals in Europe. It combines grand architecture with a legendary nightlife.
You can enjoy this country on $40 to $60 a day. A hostel bed is $20 to $30, and hotels are $30 to $50. A meal at a restaurant will cost you about $6 to $18.
The thermal baths in Budapest are incredible value. You can soak in the historic baths for a fraction of the cost you would pay in Western Europe. On top of that, the ruin bars in the Jewish Quarter are a must-see for their unique atmosphere.
“Budapest offers incredible value for budget travelers,” says Katie from Creative Travel Guide. I found that a one-hour sightseeing cruise on the Danube is a great way to see the city at night, and it is very cheap.
Poland: Modern Cities and Ancient History
Poland is an up-and-coming destination that I absolutely love. It is modern and exciting, but it does not have the high price tags of countries like Germany. It is truly one of the budget friendly European countries you should not miss.
A budget of $35 to $55 per day is perfect. Hostels are $15 to $25, and hotels are $25 to $45. You can eat at traditional Milk Bars for as little as £5.
Kraków is many people’s favorite city in Poland. The medieval Old Town is compact and easy to walk. You can visit the Wawel Castle or take a day trip to Auschwitz. Similarly, Wroclaw is known as the “Venice of Poland” because of its many islands and bridges.
I spent a week exploring Kraków as a solo traveler and felt very safe the entire time.
Lithuania: Quiet Charm and Great Value
Lithuania is often overlooked, but it is one of the most scenic countries on the continent. It is a great budget friendly european getaway.
You should plan for a daily budget of $40 to $60. Hostels cost $15 to $25, and hotels are $25 to $45. A restaurant meal ranges from $8 to $24.
Vilnius, the capital, has one of the largest Old Towns in Europe. It is filled with churches and cobblestone lanes that are perfect for slow exploration. Additionally, Kaunas is a highly walkable city with a lot of interwar architecture and a cool jazz scene.
“Prices in Vilnius are just as appealing as its undeniable charm,” notes journalist Amy Jones. I found that about €50 is a very reasonable daily budget for exploring the capital.
Portugal: A Coastal Alternative
Portugal is a surprising addition to the list for some, but it remains very affordable if you avoid the main tourist traps. It is one of the best budget friendly countries to visit in Western Europe.
I recommend a budget of $45 to $65 per day. Hostels and budget hotels are very reasonable, often starting around $25 to $35. You can find a meal at a local restaurant for $8 to $24.
Porto is a smart budget alternative to Lisbon. It offers coastal views, colorful neighborhoods, and delicious seafood at great prices. You can wander the riverside and visit port wine cellars without spending much.
Lisbon can be more expensive, but you can still find value. Authentic tasca lunches cost between €8 and €12 for three courses. On top of that, many of the city’s viewpoints, or miradouros, are free and offer the best views.
While I sometimes think back to the best budget friendly buffet in dhaka or a meal at a best budget friendly restaurant in dhanmondi, these European cities offer a completely different but equally valuable experience for your money.
How to Save Even More Money
I have learned a few tricks over the years to keep costs down while traveling through Europe.
First of all, avoid the peak summer months of July and August. Prices for hotels and flights drop significantly in May, June, September, and October. I found that visiting Lisbon in January or February can save you 40 to 60 percent on accommodation.
Secondly, use low-cost airlines like Ryanair and Wizz Air to move between countries. You can often find one-way flights for as low as €20. However, remember to check the baggage rules before you book.
Thirdly, consider using a Eurail Pass. It is a special travel pass that lets you ride trains across 33 countries with one ticket. This is very flexible and can save you money if you plan to visit many different cities.
Also, look for free walking tours in every city you visit. They are a great way to get your bearings and learn about the local culture. Just remember to tip your guide at the end.
Finally, eat where the locals eat. Look for lunch specials or “menu of the day” deals. In Portugal, these are called pratos do dia. In Poland, look for Milk Bars.
FAQ
What is the cheapest and safest country to live in Europe?
Kosovo and North Macedonia rank as the most affordable nations in terms of living costs. Lithuania and Poland are excellent choices for safety. I found that Vilnius and Kraków offer very high safety levels even for solo travelers at night.
What is the cheapest month to travel to Europe?
January and February are the least expensive months for a getaway. You can often find hotel rates in cities like Lisbon that are forty to sixty percent lower than summer peaks. November and March also provide great value with fewer crowds.
Is $5000 enough for a vacation?
Yes, it is more than enough for a long trip. A budget traveler can spend as little as $30 to $50 per day in Georgia. A total trip for one person to a country like Georgia typically ranges from $500 to $5000 depending on the level of luxury.
Which country is no. 1 for tourism?
France remains a top global destination for travelers. Spain and Italy are also incredibly popular due to their world-class attractions.
Which European country is worth visiting?
Albania is a hidden gem that is absolutely worth your time because of its wild atmosphere and low prices. Romania and Poland are also worth visiting for their stunning castles and historical architecture.
What is the most inexpensive European country to visit?
North Macedonia and Kosovo take the top spots for affordability. These countries offer the best value for accommodation, food, and transport on the continent.
What is the cheapest Schengen country?
Bulgaria is one of the most affordable nations within the Schengen zone. You can enjoy budget ski resorts and beautiful beaches for a fraction of Western European costs.
Where is the best affordable city break in Europe?
Pristina in Kosovo is the number one choice for a low-cost break. Kraków in Poland and Sofia in Bulgaria also offer incredible value for your money.
Which countries are not worth visiting?
Most places have value, but some travelers find Bucharest underwhelming compared to the beauty of the Transylvanian countryside. People currently avoid Ukraine due to the ongoing conflict.
What countries can you move to permanently?
Poland, Hungary, and Romania are popular for expats because they offer a high quality of life with lower housing and healthcare costs.
Concluding words
I have shared my personal journey through the best budget friendly European countries to help you plan your next adventure. Nations like Albania, North Macedonia, Poland, and Romania offer a perfect mix of rich history, vibrant culture, and incredible value.
You do not need to spend a fortune to see world-class attractions or enjoy delicious cuisine. Focus on Eastern Europe and the Balkans to make your money stretch the furthest. These destinations are safe, beautiful, and ready for you to visit.
