I often see viral videos of stunning European castles, pristine beaches, and charming old towns. At first, these looks like trips that would empty your wallet. I used to think the same thing. I have spent years traveling across the continent to find the truth. You do not need to spend a fortune to create memories. Europe is full of places that cost half as much as the famous spots. I am here to share my personal list of the 12 Best Budget Friendly Europe Trip locations for your next adventure.
Many travelers go to London or Paris, but those cities are very pricey. Eastern Europe is the real secret for people who want to save money. I have explored every country on this list myself. I base all my advice on my own experiences from the last 30 years. Whether you are a student or a mature traveler, these budget-friendly european countries to visit will blow your mind.
Albania: The Sunny Balkan Secret
I first visited Albania in 2022 and it was a huge surprise. It is one of the cheapest countries to visit in europe 2026. You can find cheap destinations in europe with beach spots here that look just like Greece but cost much less. I drove across the whole country and loved the blue seas.
The Costs:
- Daily Budget: $30 to $50.
- Hostel: $10 to $20 per night.
- Hotel: $20 to $40 per night.
- Street Food: $1 to $2.
- Restaurant Meal: $5 to $15.
What to do: I recommend the Albanian Riviera for the best beaches. Tirana is the capital and it has very cool spots like Skanderbeg Square and the National History Museum. Additionally, you should visit the Albanian Alps if you like mountains. I found it very easy to travel here because it shares borders with Greece and Montenegro. Plus, it is one of the sunniest places in Europe.
North Macedonia: A Hidden Gem
I cannot believe more people do not talk about North Macedonia. It is perhaps the biggest hidden gem in Europe. It has no coast, but it has beautiful lakes and mountains. I spent five days in the capital city of Skopje. The history there is very recent and fascinating.
The Costs:
- Daily Budget: $30 to $50.
- Hostel: $15 to $25 per night.
- Hotel: $25 to $45 per night.
- Fast Food: $3 to $5.
What to do: You must visit Lake Ohrid. It is one of the oldest and deepest lakes in Europe. I also suggest a walking tour in Skopje to learn about Mother Teresa and Alexander the Great. Similarly, the Pelister National Park is perfect for nature lovers. Therefore, you should add this to your list of the 12 cheapest countries to visit in europe.
Montenegro: Mountains and Sea
Montenegro is small but it packs a lot of beauty. I entered through a remote border crossing from Bosnia near Tara Canyon. I had to cross a rickety old bridge with nails sticking out! However, the views of the countryside were worth the scare.
The Costs:
- Daily Budget: $40 to $60.
- Hostel: $10 to $20 per night.
- Hotel: $20 to $40 per night.
- Restaurant Meal: $6 to $18.
What to do: The coastal town of Kotor is over 2,000 years old and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On top of that, you can visit the beautiful island of Sveti Stefan. I also loved the hiking trails in Durmitor National Park. It is a great choice for cheap europe trips for students because transport is very low cost.
Serbia: Nightlife and Culture
I 100% recommend Serbia. It is one of the least-visited countries, so you will not see big crowds. The food has a mix of many cultures and is very tasty. First of all, you should know that the people are very friendly, but I did see many stray dogs.
The Costs:
- Daily Budget: $40 to $60.
- Hostel: $15 to $25 per night.
- Hotel: $25 to $45 per night.
- Street Food: $1 to $2.
What to do: The capital city is Belgrade, and it is famous for its nightlife. You can visit the Belgrade Fortress for free and see where two rivers meet. Also, you should try the grilled sausages called cevapcici. Later, you can drive to Tara National Park for amazing views. It is definitely one of the top 10 cheapest countries to visit in europe.
Bosnia & Herzegovina: History and Value
I have traveled through Bosnia twice and I love it. It is a bit off-the-beaten-track, which makes it perfect for finding hidden gems. I even watched people do the famous bridge jump in Mostar. The country is very affordable for solo travelers.
The Costs:
- Daily Budget: $45 to $65.
- Hostel: $15 to $25 per night.
- Hotel: $25 to $45 per night.
- Meal at a Restaurant: $4 to $12.
What to do: The capital is Sarajevo. I visited the Museum of Genocide and the Sarajevo war tunnel there. Additionally, you can take a train between Sarajevo and Mostar for just $6. It is one of the most beautiful train rides in the world. You can also see the Kravice Falls, which are stunning waterfalls.
Romania: Castles and Road Trips
Romania is a place close to my heart. I spent three weeks road-tripping here in a camper van. It is one of the cheapest european countries to fly to if you are coming from places like the UK. I even celebrated a birthday at the Therme Spa in Bucharest because it was so cheap.
The Costs:
- Daily Budget: $40 to $60.
- Hostel: $15 to $25 per night.
- Hotel: $25 to $45 per night.
- Street Food: $1 to $3.
What to do: You must see Bran Castle, which people associate with Dracula. I also recommend the city of Brasov and the underground salt mine called Salina Turda. The country has amazing old towns like Sighisoara. Therefore, it is a top choice for anyone looking for a Budget Friendly Europe Trip.
Bulgaria: Beaches and Mountains
Bulgaria is one of the cheapest countries in the Schengen area. I stayed there for a few weeks in October and loved the autumn colors. It is perfect for a summer beach trip or a winter ski trip. First of all, it has some of the best prices for food and drinks in all of Europe.
The Costs:
- Daily Budget: $30 to $50.
- Hostel: $15 to $25 per night.
- Hotel: $25 to $45 per night.
- Meal at a Restaurant: $7.50 to $22.50.
What to do: The capital city is Sofia, and it has incredible architecture like the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. If you want to party, go to Sunny Beach. On the contrary, if you want nature, visit Pirin National Park for hiking. You should also try the local pastry called banitsa. It is a must-eat for any cheap europe trips for students.
Hungary: Baths and Nightlife
Hungary is a fantastic place for a quick getaway. I have visited many times with friends. It is very well connected by trains and buses to other countries like Austria and Romania. Most of the best attractions in the capital are very cheap or even free.
The Costs:
- Daily Budget: $40 to $60.
- Hostel: $20 to $30 per night.
- Hotel: $30 to $50 per night.
- Street Food: $1 to $2.
What to do: Budapest is the main star. I took a night cruise on the river and it was very cheap and included free wine! You should also visit Lake Balaton, which is the largest lake in Eastern Europe. Plus, the thermal baths are a great way to relax without spending too much. This makes it one of the cheapest cities in europe for students who want culture and fun.
Poland: History and Modern Vibes
Poland has a very rich and long past. I have visited in every season and it is always exciting. It is becoming very modern but it does not have the high prices of Germany. I found that car rentals here are very affordable, so you can explore easily.
The Costs:
- Daily Budget: $35 to $55.
- Hostel: $15 to $25 per night.
- Hotel: $25 to $45 per night.
- Restaurant Meal: $6 to $18.
What to do: Krakow and Warsaw are the biggest cities to visit. I also visited Auschwitz to learn about history, which was very sad but important. If you like nature, go to Tatra National Park. Additionally, you should eat at a “milk bar” or bar mleczny for a very cheap traditional meal. Poland is always on the list of 12 cheapest countries to visit in europe.
Lithuania: Scenic and Affordable
I visited Lithuania on a whim and I was so glad I did. It is one of the most scenic countries in Europe. It has everything from beautiful beaches to busy cities. I recommend spending at least a week here to see it all.
The Costs:
- Daily Budget: $40 to $60.
- Hostel: $15 to $25 per night.
- Hotel: $25 to $45 per night.
- Fast Food: $5.50 to $7.50.
What to do: The capital is Vilnius, where you can see old castles and eat great food. I also suggest the coastal towns of Nida and Palanga for a beach trip. On top of that, wild camping is legal here, so you can save a lot of money. It is one of the cheapest countries to visit in europe 2026 if you like quiet beauty.
Portugal: Western Europe Value
Portugal is a surprise because it is in Western Europe but still cheap. I was shocked by how affordable a road trip can be there. If you avoid the very busy tourist spots, you get a lot for your money. I found that renting a car is very cheap and helps you see more.
The Costs:
- Daily Budget: $45 to $65.
- Hostel: $25 to $35 per night.
- Hotel: $35 to $55 per night.
- Street Food: $3 to $4.
What to do: Lisbon and Porto are the most famous cities. I also loved the Algarve for its beautiful coast. However, the smaller cities like Viseu are even cheaper for food and stay. Similarly, the Douro Valley is a stunning place to visit by car. It is a top pick for a Budget Friendly Europe Trip in the west.
Greece: Island Dreams on a Budget
Greece is the last on my list but it is not the least. It is more affordable than the UK or the USA. I found that you can stay on stunning islands for as little as $20 per night. You just have to pick the right islands that are not too famous.
The Costs:
- Daily Budget: $45 to $65.
- Hostel: $20 to $30 per night.
- Hotel: $30 to $50 per night.
- Street Food (Gyros): $2 to $3.
What to do: Athens is a must-visit for the history. Instead of expensive islands like Mykonos, try Lefkada or Ikaria. You can find an apartment there for $30 a night. Also, eating gyros from street stalls will save you a lot of money. Greece is definitely one of the best budget-friendly european countries to visit.
How to Save Even More Money
I have learned many tricks over the years to keep my costs low. First of all, you should travel in the shoulder season. This means going in April, May, September, or October. Prices for flights and hotels can drop by 30% to 50% during these times. Plus, the weather is still quite nice and there are fewer crowds.
Additionally, you should look for cheap europe trips for students by using public transport. Many cities in the east have buses and trains that cost very little. For example, a monthly pass in Sofia costs less than $20. You can also use apps like Rome2Rio to find the cheapest way to get from one city to another.
Another great tip is to eat like the locals. I always avoid the “tourist menu” with pictures of food. Those are usually overpriced and not very good. Instead, I go to local markets or grocery stores like Lidl and Aldi. You can buy fresh bread, cheese, and fruit for a picnic and save a lot.
Finally, be careful with ATM fees. Some banks charge a lot to take out money in a foreign country. I use a card that reimburses me for these fees. Also, always choose to pay in the local currency when a machine asks you. This simple step can save you a few dollars every time.
Transportation Tips
I often use the Eurail Pass when I want to see many countries in one trip. A pass for 15 days can cost around €300. It is a very flexible way to travel and you can see over 30,000 destinations. However, in the Balkans, buses are usually cheaper than trains. Companies like FlixBus cover most of the routes I mentioned.
If you are flying, look for budget airlines like Ryanair or Wizz Air. They have very low prices if you book early. For example, you can find a flight from London to Barcelona for $40. Just be careful with their bag rules! They charge extra for large bags, so I always try to pack light.
FAQ
What is the most affordable European country to visit?
North Macedonia and Serbia often rank as the most affordable spots with average daily budgets starting at just €30. Other data suggests Bosnia & Herzegovina and Bulgaria offer the lowest overall costs for travelers. You can find hostel beds for less than $8 or $10 and meals for as little as $5 in these countries.
How much does a budget friendly trip to Europe cost?
A typical budget traveler spends about 50€ a day, though this does not include your flights. Frugal travelers who stay in hostels generally spend between $40 and $90 a day in Eastern Europe. However, Western Europe is more expensive and requires a daily budget of $75 to $125.
What are budget-friendly travel tips for Europe?
Travel during the shoulder season to cut your costs by 30% to 50%. Use public transportation like the FlixBus or regional trains because they are much cheaper than flying. Eat like a local by purchasing food at supermarkets like Lidl or Aldi instead of tourist restaurants. Finally, do not overpack so you can avoid high baggage fees on budget airlines.
Is 1000 euros enough for 2 weeks in Europe?
This amount is enough for a two-week trip if you stick to Eastern Europe. You would have roughly €71 a day for your expenses. This budget covers hostels, local food, and cheap transport in countries like Romania or Poland. It is a very tight budget for Western Europe where costs are much higher.
Where is still cheap in Europe?
The Balkan Peninsula and the Baltic States remain the best regions for low prices. Countries like Albania, Montenegro, and Latvia offer beautiful views for half the price of popular hubs. Slovakia and Lithuania also stay affordable for nature lovers and city explorers.
How can I plan a budget-friendly itinerary?
Focus on one specific region to reduce the cost of moving between cities. Categorize every activity in your plan as a “must do” or “if there is time” to manage your expectations. Consider open-jaw flights where you arrive in one city and leave from another to save time and money.
What is the cheapest month to go to Europe?
Winter is the cheapest time because there are very few crowds. However, the shoulder season in April, May, September, and October offers the best balance of low prices and good weather. Avoid major holidays like Christmas or Easter when prices for flights and hotels shoot sky high.
What are the 7 countries Europe trip?
You can visit seven countries easily if you start in a central spot like Hungary. Hungary shares borders with seven nations including Austria, Croatia, Slovakia, and Romania. Another option is a Balkan route that covers seven countries over roughly 18 days.
Is 7 days enough for a Europe trip?
One week is often too short because jetlag can make the first few days very difficult. You should try to stay for at least two weeks to truly enjoy the experience. If you only have seven days, stay in just one or two nearby cities to avoid wasting time on transit.
What is the cheapest and safest country to visit?
Poland, Romania, and Lithuania are excellent choices because they are very safe for tourists and offer low prices. Eastern Europe is generally safer and cheaper than many major cities in other parts of the world. Krakow in Poland is specifically noted for being very friendly and clean for travelers.
Is $100 a day enough in Europe?
This is a very healthy budget for Eastern Europe where you might only need $40 to $90 a day. In Western Europe, $100 a day is enough for modest travel but requires you to watch your spending on hotels and fancy meals.
Where is the best affordable city break in Europe?
Sarajevo in Bosnia & Herzegovina is a top choice because it is remarkably affordable and full of history. Tirana, Albania and Miskolc, Hungary also offer great value for your money. Hull in the UK is a surprising budget option if you want to visit Western Europe without the high costs.
Where to go for a 3 day trip to Europe?
Bratislava in Slovakia is a perfect choice for a short break. It is compact, walkable, and much cheaper than nearby Vienna or Prague. You can see the medieval Old Town and the hilltop castle in just a few days.
Which part of Europe is the cheapest to visit?
The Eastern and Southeastern regions are the cheapest parts of the continent. This includes the Balkans and former Soviet states. These areas have lower labor costs and favorable exchange rates for travelers.
What is the top 10 cheapest country in the world?
While this list changes, the cheapest countries in Europe often include North Macedonia, Serbia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Albania, and Montenegro. Bulgaria, Romania, Hungary, Poland, and Lithuania complete the list of affordable European destinations.
Concluding words
My journey through the 12 Best Budget Friendly Europe Trip locations shows that you do not need a fortune to see the world. From the sunny beaches of Albania to the historic streets of Poland, these countries offer rich experiences at a fraction of the cost found in Paris or London. You can save money by traveling in the shoulder season, eating like a local, and using public transport.
Eastern Europe remains the best region for value, but even Portugal and Greece offer great deals if you plan well. Every traveler can find a beautiful spot that fits their wallet. Start your adventure now and see the magic of Europe without the high price tag!
