I have spent many years on the open road. I have seen the sun rise over the mountains in Romania and watched it set into the Atlantic in Portugal. A Budget Road Trip Europe is not just a dream for people with deep pockets. It is a real possibility for anyone who knows where to look. In fact, I have found that some of the most beautiful spots on the continent are also the most affordable. You do not need to spend a fortune to create memories that will stay with you forever. Many travelers focus on Paris or London, but those cities can drain your wallet fast. However, if you point your car toward the east and south, you will find a different world.
It is time to talk about the 10 Best Budget Road Trip Europe routes for your next adventure. I am writing this to help you plan a journey that is both rich in culture and kind to your bank account. We will look at the top 10 cheapest countries to visit in europe and how you can navigate them in 2026.
The Logistics of the Road
Before you start the engine, you must understand the costs. A rental car is the heart of your trip, but prices change often. I once found that Vilnius Airport in Lithuania is a hidden gem for rentals. In March, you can sometimes find economy cars for as low as $2 to $5 per day. Also, you must think about the “total cost of mobility”. This includes fuel, tolls, and those pesky cross-border fees.
If you plan to cross borders, you must tell the rental company. Crossing from the European Union into non-EU Balkan states like Albania or Montenegro requires a “Green Card”. It is an international insurance certificate. If you do not have it, your insurance is void. Therefore, always read the fine print.
Tolls are another big factor. In 2025 and 2026, many countries moved to digital vignettes. You link your license plate to an online system. Austria, for example, implemented a 12.6% increase in toll rates in 2025. On top of that, some countries like France and Italy use distance-based tolls that can add up to €180 for a single long drive. Gradually, you will learn that planning your route around these costs is an economic necessity.
Romania: The Land of Castles and Clouds
Romania is a real hidden gem. It is one of the cheapest countries to visit in europe 2026. I found that a daily budget of $40 to $60 is plenty for a comfortable life on the road here.
The highlight of my time there was the Transfagarasan Highway. It is a 90 km road that winds through the Fagaras Mountains. A British TV show once called it “the best road in the world,” and I have to agree. The hairpin turns are exhilarating. The views are spectacular.
I recommend starting in the south at Curtea de Argeș and heading north toward Cârțișoara. I saw my first bear near the side of the road at 8:38 am. It was a wild moment. However, you must not feed the bears. It is dangerous for you and bad for them.
The road reaches its highest point at Balea Lake, which sits at 2,034 meters. It is a glacial lake with water that reflects the mountain peaks like a mirror. You can park there, but it gets busy in the summer. I found that arriving before 9:00 am is the only way to beat the crowds.
Additionally, you should check out the Poenari Castle Ruins. This was the home of Vlad the Impaler, the man who inspired the stories of Dracula. You have to climb 1,480 steps to reach it, but the view of the Argeș River Valley is free.
Romania is also full of “milk bars” or Bary mleczne, which are very cheap places to eat. You can get a bowl of pierogi or a hearty stew for just a few dollars. Accommodation is also a bargain. I found charming guesthouses for about $25 to $30 a night.
Portugal: The Scenic Spine of the N2
If you want a slow travel holiday, you must drive the Estrada Nacional 2 (N2). It is the Portuguese version of America’s Route 66. It spans 739 kilometers from Chaves in the north to Faro in the south. It is the only road in Europe that crosses the length of an entire country.
I loved the geographical shifts on this route. You start with mountains and vineyards in the north and end with sun-scorched plains in the south. Gradually, the winding roads of the Douro Valley turn into the straight, easy paths of the Alentejo.
Plus, there is a fantastic bonus for your budget in 2026. The Portuguese government abolished tolls on several major motorways like the A22 and A24 starting in January 2025. This is a massive win for road trippers.
I recommend getting an N2 Passport from a tourist office. You can collect stamps from 35 different towns along the way. It is a wonderful memento.
My favorite stop was Lamego. I climbed the 686 steps of the Baroque stairway to the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora dos Remédios. The view from the top is beautiful. Later, I found that local bakeries sell delicious pastries like pastéis de nata for very little money.
Additionally, you can find “pratos do dia” or set meals for as little as $6 in the rural interior. A seven-day road trip for two people in Portugal can cost about $1,400 inclusive of flights, car, and hotels. This makes it one of the most budget-friendly european countries for a full tour.
Albania: The Best-Kept Secret
Albania is probably the most aggressive value in the Mediterranean right now. It is one of the 12 cheapest countries to visit in europe. I felt like my money went further here than almost anywhere else.
The Albanian Riviera is stunning. It has crystal-clear waters and white cliffs that rival Greece or Italy. However, it costs about one-third of the price. You can find a bunk bed in a modern hostel in Tirana for just $8 to $10.
I recommend driving from the capital, Tirana, down to the coastal town of Sarandë. On the way, stop at Gjirokastër. It is a UNESCO-listed town with Ottoman architecture. I walked through the historic bazaar and felt like I had traveled back in time.
On top of that, the food is incredibly cheap. I spent as little as $5 on a full meal in a typical restaurant. If you like nature, the Accursed Mountains in the north are perfect for hiking. Albania is safe and the infrastructure is improving every year. Go there before everyone else finds out.
Montenegro: Small but Mighty
Montenegro is a tiny Balkan gem. It packs so much into a small space. You can go from the beach to the mountains in just a few hours. I found that the average daily cost here is between €43 and €71.
The Bay of Kotor is a must-see. It looks like a fjord with dramatic mountains dropping into the sea. I hiked up to the San Giovanni Fortress for a bird’s-eye view. Be warned: it is 1,350 steps. In 2026, the entry fee is €15. Therefore, I suggest starting the hike at 7:00 am to avoid the heat and the crowds.
First of all, if you want to save money on food, visit the local bakeries or pekara. You can get a burek (pastry filled with meat or cheese) for a couple of euros. It is a reliable and cheap option for travelers.
Gradually, you should move inland to Durmitor National Park. It is home to the Tara River Canyon, the second deepest in the world. The entry fee for the park is only €5. I walked around Black Lake and the reflection of the pine trees was perfect.
Montenegro is one of the cheapest countries in europe with beach access. Stay in Herceg Novi instead of the more famous towns to save even more money. It has great beaches and medieval architecture without the big price tag.
Bosnia & Herzegovina: The Underrated Heart
Many people still associate Bosnia with the conflicts of the 1990s. On the contrary, it is now one of the most beautiful and authentic destinations in Europe. It is arguably the cheapest country in europe to visit.
I spent about $45 to $70 a day here and lived like a king. The town of Mostar is legendary for its bridge, the Stari Most. I watched local divers jump into the cold river below. The cobblestone streets of the old bazaar are filled with copper shops and the smell of coffee.
Finally, visit the capital, Sarajevo. It is one of the most underrated capitals on the continent. It has a unique blend of Austro-Hungarian and Ottoman influences. You can find meals for $5 to $8 easily.
If you are coming from Croatia, Bosnia makes a perfect and affordable add-on. It offers mountain lakes, river rafting, and even a small section of the Adriatic coast at Neum.
Bulgaria: Crossroad of Culture
Bulgaria is a fascinating country in Southeastern Europe. It is well-known for its diverse history and delicious food. I found that it is one of the cheapest european countries to fly to from major hubs.
I started my adventure in Plovdiv, one of the oldest cities in the world. The Old Town has beautiful cobblestone streets and Roman ruins. Also, there are many free activities you can enjoy there.
The Black Sea coast is another budget winner. I visited Varna and Sozopol. The water is deep and blue. The prices are low. You can get a bottle of beer in a bar for about $2.50 and a nice restaurant meal for $7 to $12.
Additionally, the trains are extremely cheap. You can take a four-hour journey for as little as $5. If you like mountains, visit Bansko. It is one of the cheapest ski resorts in all of Europe.
Poland: History and Nature Combined
Poland is a fantastic destination in Central Europe. It offers a high value-to-price ratio. I found that cities like Krakow and Gdańsk are full of life and history.
In Krakow, I explored the Main Market Square and the Jewish Quarter. However, I spent most of my time in the national parks. Ojcowski National Park is near Krakow and has stunning caves and castles.
Plus, you must try the “milk bars” or Bary mleczne in Poland. These were started in the socialist era but are still popular today. They serve traditional food like pierogi and soups for very low prices.
I also joined several free walking tours. Companies like Walkative offer them in all major cities. You just have to tip the guide at the end. It is a great way to learn about the country without spending much.
North Macedonia: The Soul of the Balkans
North Macedonia is a country you will not forget anytime soon. It has a lively culture and super cute small towns. I found it to be very budget-friendly, with daily costs around $45 to $70.
The highlight of any trip here is Ohrid Lake. It is one of the oldest and deepest lakes in Europe. The town of Ohrid is filled with historic churches. I found that a meal in a local restaurant cost me between $4 and $6.
The capital, Skopje, is also worth a visit. It has a strange but fun mix of countless statues and neoclassical buildings. Gradually, you will see that the people here are very friendly and eager to share their culture.
Lithuania: The Budget Hub
I mentioned Lithuania earlier as a great place for cheap car rentals. However, the country has much more to offer than just low prices. It is one of the most affordable members of the European Union.
Vilnius, the capital, has a stunning Old Town that is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is a city of Baroque architecture and a growing art scene. I walked through the streets and did not see the huge tourist crowds you find in other capitals.
On top of that, the nature in Lithuania is beautiful. The Curonian Spit is a unique landscape of sand dunes and forests. Because it is a small country, you can see a lot in just a few days. Hostels are around $10 and hotels start at $20.
Serbia: Nightlife and Warmth
For friendly people and amazing food, you must visit Serbia. It is a high-value frontier market for travelers. I found the capital, Belgrade, to be a vibrant city with a unique urban experience.
I walked through the Belgrade Fortress and the bohemian quarter of Skadarlija. The food is hearty and meat-heavy. You must try grilled specialties like ćevapi. Also, a shot of rakija (local fruit brandy) is a must-try tradition.
Gradually, I moved north to Novi Sad. It is famous for its medieval fortress and lively bars. Accommodation is very affordable. I found apartments for $20 to $30 per night.
Finally, if you like the outdoors, visit Tara Mountain for hiking. Serbia is one of the budget-friendly european countries that still feels undiscovered by the masses.
How to Save Even More on Your Road Trip
Planning is everything. I have learned a few tricks over the years to keep my spending low.
Use Food Apps
I use an app called TooGoodToGo in countries like Portugal, Poland, and the Czech Republic. It lets you buy “Surprise Bags” of unsold food from bakeries and supermarkets at the end of the day. I have saved up to 70% on my grocery bill this way. In the Balkans, apps like Glovo or Wolt are very popular for local food delivery.
Think About Water
Do not forget the cost of water. In Western and Central Europe, tap water is safe to drink. However, in countries like Albania, Montenegro, and Romania, it is not advised to drink from the tap due to old pipes. I always carry a filter or buy large bottles to save money and reduce waste.
Watch Your Speed
Portugal and other countries are full of speed cameras. If you get a fine, the rental company will charge your credit card and add an administrative fee of €25 to €50. Therefore, follow the speed limits closely.
Wild Camping Rules
I love the idea of sleeping under the stars. However, wild camping is strictly prohibited in most of Europe. Only Nordic countries like Norway or Sweden allow it under the “Right to Roam”. In Portugal and Spain, you can get a steep fine for camping on the coast. Romania and parts of the Balkans are more relaxed, but you should always check the local laws first.
Transitioning to Your Next Adventure
European travel does not require an unlimited budget. From the medieval castles of Romania to the pristine beaches of Albania, these countries offer a rich experience for a fraction of the cost. You can travel longer and see more if you choose the right destinations.
Finally, remember that the best part of a road trip is the freedom it gives you. You can stop at a random bakery in a small village or watch a sunset from a mountain peak. These are the moments that make travel special.
I hope this guide helps you plan your own Budget Road Trip Europe. The road is waiting for you. All you have to do is start the engine. Happy travels!
FAQ
How much does a budget friendly trip to Europe cost?
The average daily cost for travelers in high-value markets like Romania or Bulgaria is often between $40 and $70. A seven-day road trip for two people in Portugal totals about $1,400 when you include flights and hotels. Therefore, a budget-friendly journey is very possible.
Is 1000 euros enough for 2 weeks in Europe?
Yes, it is enough if you stay in the cheapest countries. Daily costs in Albania or North Macedonia range from $40 to $65, so 1000 euros will cover two weeks easily. Additionally, you must choose hostels or budget hotels to keep your spending low.
Is $100 a day enough in Europe?
A budget of $100 a day is more than enough for the Balkans and the Baltic states. Many countries in these regions require less than $70 per day for accommodation and food. On top of that, you will have extra cash for fun activities or tours.
What is the best road trip in Europe?
The Transfăgărășan Highway in Romania is a top choice. It is often called the best road in the world by car fans. The N2 route in Portugal is also a fantastic option for travelers who love the open road.
What are the 7 countries Europe trip?
A popular seven-country route through the Balkans includes Albania, Montenegro, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, North Macedonia, and Kosovo. Each nation offers a unique culture and beautiful views. Gradually, you will see the landscape change as you cross each border.
Is $5000 enough for a vacation?
Yes, $5000 is plenty for a long European vacation. Since a week in Portugal for two costs roughly $1,400, this budget can support a trip for several weeks. You will be able to stay in nice places and eat great food.
What is the cheapest month to go to Europe?
November is the cheapest month for car rentals in Portugal, with prices around $29 per day. September is the most affordable month to rent a vehicle at the Vilnius Airport in Lithuania. Therefore, you should plan your trip for the fall or early spring.
Can I survive on $1000 a month?
You can survive if you stay in countries like Albania, where hostel beds cost $8 and meals are as low as $5. However, you must be very careful with your spending. First of all, focus on free attractions like city walking tours and national parks.
Is 2000 enough for 2 weeks in Europe?
Yes, 2000 euros is a very healthy budget for two weeks. This amount allows for a daily spend of about $142, which is much higher than the $40 to $90 needed in budget-friendly nations. Plus, you can enjoy more luxury hotels or private tours.
Which country is best for travel in low budget in Europe?
Bosnia and Herzegovina and Bulgaria offer the lowest overall expenses. You can find cheap meals and affordable beds in these countries every day. Similarly, Romania and Albania are excellent leaders for budget travelers.
What is the cheapest way to travel around Europe?
Intercity buses and trains in Eastern Europe are the most affordable ways to move around. Also, you can find car rentals for as little as $2 to $5 per day in hubs like Vilnius.
What are the top 3 tourist destinations in Europe?
France, Italy, and Spain are traditional favorites, but they are often very expensive. For budget travelers, Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve are the most popular spots in Portugal.
How to plan a road trip in Europe?
You should book your flights and car rentals two to eight months in advance. Additionally, you must verify if you need a Green Card for cross-border travel in the Balkans. Later, you should research the toll systems for each country you visit.
Which country is best for a road trip?
Portugal is a top choice because of the N2 road that crosses the whole country. Romania is another winner because it has two of the most famous alpine roads in the world.
Concluding words
A Budget Road Trip Europe is a wonderful way to see the world without spending too much money. You can find incredible value in countries like Romania, Albania, and Bosnia and Herzegovina, where daily costs are very low. However, you must plan your route carefully to handle tolls and car rental fees.
Portugal’s N2 route and the Balkan coast offer beautiful scenery and affordable fun for every traveler. Finally, remember that the best experiences often happen in small towns far from the major tourist crowds.
