I have spent many years wandering through Europe and I can tell you that travel here does not have to cost a fortune. I have explored the hidden corners of Central Europe and the Balkans for less than €50 a day. Recent inflation makes things a bit harder, but you can still find amazing budget friendly destinations in europe if you know where to look. I want to share my personal experience with you to help you plan budget friendly vacations in europe that feel like a luxury.
First of all, I must say that some parts of the continent are becoming much more expensive. However, the eastern side still offers high quality for low prices. You do not need to spend a lot of money to see budget friendly places in europe to visit. I have selected my top picks for the 12 Best Budget Friendly Destinations In Europe based on my own trips. These are perfect for mature travelers who love culture, history, and good food without the high price tag.
Albania: The Hidden Star of the Balkans
Albania is my favorite secret. I found that it remains much more affordable than its neighbors like Italy or Greece. Tirana, the capital, is full of bright colors and modern energy. I enjoyed walking through Skanderbeg Square for free. Later, I visited Bunk’Art 1, which is a museum inside a massive Cold War bunker. The entry fee was only about 700-800 ALL, which is roughly €7.
On top of that, the Albanian Riviera is a great choice for budget friendly beach destinations in europe. I spent time in Ksamil and Saranda. The water is clear blue and the beaches are quiet if you visit in the shoulder season. I stayed in a beautiful apartment in Korca for a very small cost. You can find rooms for as low as €25 to €30 per night. Food is also cheap. I ate Byrek, a savory pastry, for only €1 or €2. Therefore, Albania is one of the best budget friendly locations in europe for a long stay.
Bulgaria: A Land of Variety
I regret that I did not spend more time in Bulgaria sooner. Sofia is a relaxed city where you can walk almost everywhere. It is around 50% cheaper than major Western capitals. I loved the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. Additionally, the city has a free Balkan Bites Food Tour that I highly recommend.
If you like the sea, the Black Sea coast around Sozopol and Nessebar has long sandy beaches. Plus, Bulgaria is home to some of the most budget friendly ski resorts in europe. I found that Bansko offers great skiing for a fraction of the cost you would pay in the Alps. A daily ski pass in Bansko costs about 90 BGN, which is roughly €45. At that time, I could get a beer for less than €1.50. Bulgaria is surely a top choice for budget friendly vacation destinations in europe.
Romania: Castles and Culture
Romania always exceeds my expectations. Bucharest is a city of contrasts with beautiful old buildings and a strong cafe culture. I visited Therme Bucharest, which is one of the largest thermal spas in Europe. I could enjoy mineral pools and saunas for as little as €12. This is much cheaper than any resort in the West.
Later, I drove to Transylvania. This region feels like a storybook with its rolling hills and medieval towns like Brasov and Sibiu. I visited Bran Castle, which people associate with Dracula. Entry fees for castles are usually between $5 and $15. I recommend staying in family-run guesthouses in rural areas for an authentic experience. Romania is perfect for history buffs looking for best budget friendly destinations in europe.
Poland: History and Hearty Food
Poland is one of the most reliable budget friendly destinations in europe. I have visited Krakow many times. Its Main Market Square is one of the largest in Europe and free to explore. I found the “Milk Bars” or bar mleczny to be a great way to save money. These are local diners where you can get a full meal of pierogi for about $5 to $7.
Additionally, cities like Wroclaw and Gdansk are very affordable and full of charm. I stayed in high-end boutique hotels in Wroclaw that cost much less than basic hotels in London or Paris. You can expect to spend about $35 to $55 per day here. The people are welcoming and the food is delicious. Finally, I suggest taking a free walking tour to learn about the deep history of the country.
Hungary: Beyond the Capital
Budapest is famous for its thermal baths and ruin bars. I enjoyed soaking in the Szechenyi Baths for a reasonable price. However, I found even better value in smaller cities like Szeged and Pecs. These cities have stunning architecture and a lower cost of living than Budapest. Pecs has a unique Mediterranean vibe with a mix of Roman and Ottoman history.
I spent very little on food here. A hearty bowl of Goulash can cost between $5 and $8. Hungarian wines from regions like Tokaj are world-class and very cheap. You can find a nice hotel for around €30 to €50 per night. Similarly, public transport is efficient and inexpensive. Therefore, Hungary remains a top contender for budget friendly vacations in europe.
Bosnia and Herzegovina: A Soulful Experience
Sarajevo is one of the cheapest capitals I have ever visited. It is a place where East meets West. I loved wandering through the Bascarsija bazaar and drinking strong Bosnian coffee for about €1.50. I also ate Cevapi, which are small sausages on flatbread, for less than €5.
On top of that, the city has a moving history. I visited the Tunnel of Salvation for about €9. Later, I took a train to Mostar. This ride is one of the most beautiful in the world and costs only about $6. I stayed in the city center for around €45 per night. Bosnia is perfect for solo travelers or couples looking for an affordable but deep cultural experience.
Lithuania: Baltic Beauty
Lithuania is the most affordable of the Baltic States. Vilnius, the capital, is a great walking city with many free sights. I enjoyed the Old Town and the artistic district of Uzupis. I stayed in a basic hotel for €45 per night, but you can find fancy rooms for just a little more.
Also, the city of Kaunas is perfect for a weekend break. It has a rich architectural heritage and many lively cafes. I found that meals typically cost between $6 and $12. Lithuania is often identified as a great spot for younger travelers, but I think its history and art appeal to everyone. Therefore, it is one of my top budget friendly places in europe to visit.
North Macedonia: The Hidden Gem
I simply could not believe how little I had heard about this country before I went. It is easily the cheapest country in the Balkans. Skopje is a bit weird with its many new statues, but its historic bazaar is traditional and lovely. I paid about €35 for a budget apartment and only €5 to €10 for an excellent meal.
Finally, I visited Lake Ohrid. It is one of the oldest and deepest lakes in Europe. The town of Ohrid is a UNESCO site with beautiful churches and views. I found apartments on the water for only €25 per night in the off-season. North Macedonia is perfect for nature lovers and those who want to avoid crowds.
Croatia: Beyond the Coast
Most people think Croatia is expensive because of Dubrovnik and the islands. However, the capital city of Zagreb offers great value. I found excellent hotels and apartments for under €60 per night. The city has a vibrant street life and many beautiful parks.
Additionally, I explored the Zagorje region with its medieval towns. If you must go to the coast, Split is a good base. You can find affordable apartments if you look a little away from the center. I ate at local markets to save money on Dalmatian cuisine. Croatia is a great option for budget friendly honeymoon destinations in europe if you travel in the shoulder season.
Serbia: Rivers and Nightlife
Serbia is not a common destination for many, but I highly recommend it. Belgrade is a bustling capital located where two rivers meet. I enjoyed walking through the Kalemegdan Fortress for free. The city is famous for its nightlife, including river clubs on barges.
The cost of living is very low here. I could get a hearty meal like Pljeskavica for about $4 to $6. I stayed in a central hotel for about €50 per night. Also, the people are very friendly and eager to share their culture. Serbia is one of the best budget friendly locations in europe for those who want an edgy and authentic experience.
Montenegro: Mountains and Fjords
Montenegro is small but packs a lot of beauty. The Bay of Kotor looks like a fjord and is surrounded by dramatic mountains. I hiked up to the castle walls for an incredible view of the Old Town. Montenegro is generally cheaper than Croatia, even though they are neighbors.
I found that hostels start at $15 and hotels at $30 per night. Food is also affordable, with street food costing around $2 to $3. Later, I visited Durmitor National Park for hiking and mountain air. Montenegro is a wonderful choice for budget friendly vacation destinations in europe if you love the outdoors.
Portugal: Western Europe’s Value Champion
Portugal is the only Western European country on my list. Though it is not as cheap as it once was, it still offers great value. I love Porto for its river views and tiled houses. I found the food here to be much cheaper than in Spain or France. You can get a local meal for about $8 to $24.
Also, the Douro Valley is perfect for a quiet getaway among vineyards. I used the train to travel between cities, which was very affordable. I stayed in guesthouses for about €35 to €55 per night. Portugal is a romantic and budget friendly honeymoon destination in europe.
My Best Tips for Saving Money
I want to share a few more secrets for your 2026 trip. First of all, you must travel during the shoulder season. This means months like April, May, June, September, and October. At that time, prices for hotels and flights drop by 30% to 50%. Plus, the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds.
Additionally, I recommend staying in apartments instead of big hotels. I often book places with kitchen facilities so I can cook some of my own meals. On top of that, I always eat like a local. I skip the touristy restaurants in the main squares and find small bakeries or street food stalls. In Poland, look for Milk Bars; in Albania, find a Byrek shop.
Similarly, you should use public transport. Buses and regional trains are very cheap in Eastern Europe. For example, a bus in Tirana costs only about €0.45. I also use walking as my main way to explore. Many of these cities have compact old towns that are perfect for a stroll. Therefore, you can save your money for more important things, like a nice glass of local wine or a guided tour.
Finally, do not be afraid to go off-the-beaten-path. Smaller towns are almost always cheaper than capitals. I found that northern Albania is even cheaper than the south because fewer tourists go there. Plus, you get to have more genuine interactions with the locals.
Travel is about making memories, not spending every cent you have. I hope my experience helps you find the perfect spot among these 12 Best Budget Friendly Destinations In Europe. These countries offer incredible beauty, deep history, and warm hospitality for a price that will make you smile. Europe is waiting for you!
FAQ
I want to answer some of your common questions. No more guessing. Just the facts.
Where is the cheapest place to go in Europe?
North Macedonia is easily the cheapest place in the Balkans. It is a hidden gem that remains extremely affordable for any traveler who wants to save money. You will find beautiful lakes and history here for a very low cost.
Which European country is the most budget-friendly?
Bulgaria consistently ranks as the most budget-friendly country among European Union members. Additionally, it offers the lowest overall prices for food and rooms compared to its neighbors.
Is $100 a day enough in Europe?
A daily budget of $100 is more than enough for these regions. You can live very well on $30 to $50 a day in countries like Albania or Serbia. Therefore, your money will go much further in the East.
Where to go for a 3 day trip to Europe?
Sofia is ideal for a short three-day break because it is compact and easy to walk. Also, you can spend a weekend in Warsaw since it has many coffee shops and beautiful green spaces.
What is the cheapest and safest country to visit?
Romania is the safest choice because it has the lowest crime rates in the region. Similarly, Poland is a great pick where I felt very safe while I walked through the streets.
Which country is best for low budgets?
North Macedonia is best for ultra-low budgets because it is one of the cheapest countries in the world. You can find a hearty meal for as little as $4 there. Plus, the guest houses are very cheap.
How to travel Europe in low budget?
First of all, you should travel during the shoulder season to find lower rates. You should use local buses or regional trains instead of expensive taxis. On top of that, you should eat at local markets or milk bars in Poland to save your cash.
What is the cheapest month to travel to Europe?
January is the cheapest month to fly to many cities like Sofia and Bucharest. At that time, prices for flights are much lower than during the summer.
Which country is best for travel in low budget?
Bosnia and Herzegovina is a top choice for travel on a low budget due to its low prices for beer and food. It offers a soulful experience for a very small cost. However, you must be ready for a unique and gritty urban adventure.
I hope these answers help you plan your next big trip.
Concluding words
Europe has many affordable secrets waiting for you to see them. Though major cities are pricey, the Balkans and Central Europe offer amazing value. You can enjoy stunning beaches in Albania, historic castles in Romania, and great food in Poland without high costs. Plan your trip for the shoulder season to get the best deals. These 12 Best Budget Friendly Destinations In Europe prove that you can have a luxury experience on a small budget.
