I have traveled across the globe for years. August is usually the time when everyone wants to visit the Old Continent. However, people often worry about the high costs. I understand that fear. High season in places like London or Paris can drain a bank account fast. Plus, the heat in Southern Europe can be intense. Average temperatures in August reach 30°C in Rome and 33°C in Athens. But I have a secret. You can find incredible value if you know where to look. I will share my list of the Cheap Places To Travel in Europe in August. These spots offer culture, beaches, and history without the heavy price tag.
First of all, I must mention that many “reliable” cheap cities are not so cheap anymore. Over-tourism has caused prices to rise in Greece and Spain. Therefore, we must look toward the east and the south for the best deals. Eastern Europe is currently a hotspot for value-for-money travel. According to recent data, seven of the ten cheapest cities are in this region. Let us dive into my top picks.
Albania: The Hidden Mediterranean Gem
Albania is the answer if you dream of a sun-soaked escape. This country rivals Italy and Greece but costs much less. I spent a week here and the natural beauty blew me away. Most people look for cheap destinations in Europe with beach options, and the Albanian Riviera is perfect.
The water in Ksamil is stunning. It is often described as a paradise with powdery white sand. Outside temperatures in August range from 13°C to 34°C. You can find meals for as little as $3. Plus, beachfront stays can cost only $20 per night. At that time, I realized my money went much further here than in any other Mediterranean spot.
Tirana, the capital, is also remarkably cheap to visit. It is full of history from the Communist era. You can enter a Cold War bunker turned museum, Bunk’art 1, for just £4. Additionally, the nightlife in the Blloku district is lively and safe.
Pro Tip: Use local buses called “furgons” to save money, but be patient with their schedules.
Poland: The Budget-Travel Paradise
Poland is one of the most underrated countries. It has everything Western Europe offers but for half the price. First of all, the food is incredible. You must visit milk bars for a taste of authentic Poland. A hearty meal of pierogi and soup at a milk bar usually costs around 30 PLN, which is very affordable.
Krakow is a favorite for many. It is a beautiful student city with a wild nightlife. The daily budget for a backpacker in Poland is about 175 PLN. On top of that, you can take a free walking tour to see the medieval sites. If you prefer the coast, Gdansk is a great choice. It has low-cost beer and top-tier museums.
Warsaw also offers great value. You can wander the Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Similarly, cities like Poznan and Wroclaw are even cheaper and free of huge crowds. Poland is truly one of the top 10 cheapest countries to visit in europe.
Georgia: Epic Landscapes and Ancient Wine
Georgia is not always the first place people think of for a European trip. However, it represents excellent value for money. I lived there for a while and the quality of food and wine is high for the price you pay. Even in the capital, Tbilisi, prices remain low by European standards.
A single Khinkali dumpling costs between 1.50 and 3 GEL. That is less than one dollar! Also, Georgian wine is epically good and very affordable. Draught wine is available at some restaurants for as little as 3-5 GEL a glass. A mid-range traveler can get by on $65 to $85 per day.
August is a great time to head to the mountains. The Tatra Mountains or the Caucasus offer stunning views and cooler air. Georgia has a generous visa-free policy which makes it easy to visit. Therefore, I highly recommend this spot for anyone who loves nature and history.
Romania: Castles and Vibrant Cities
Romania is an interesting country that you can explore very cheaply. Bucharest, the capital, has lower prices than most other European destinations. You can find a 2-night stay at a 3-star hotel for two people for around $131.
I loved the mountain towns like Brasov and Sibiu. They feel like they are from a storybook. The average daily budget for two people in August is about $81. Food is hearty and delicious. You should try the grilled pork at Caru’ cu Bere in Bucharest.
Gradually, Romania is gaining more visibility as a tourism hub. Plus, it is very safe and locals like tourists. If you enjoy history, you must visit the castles in the Transylvania region. Romania is easily one of the 12 cheapest countries to visit in europe.
Bulgaria: Sunny Beaches and Roman Ruins
Bulgaria is a fantastic summer destination. It offers the most hours of sun in Europe. August temperatures stay around 16°C to 33°C. I found the costs to be very low. The total budget for two people per day is approximately $66.
Sofia is a capital city on the up and well worth your time. It has a blend of Roman ruins and Byzantine architecture. You can join a free Balkan food tour there. Additionally, the coastal city of Varna is perfect if you want a beach. Food and drinks are very cheap on the Black Sea coast.
Bulgaria recently adopted the Euro as its currency, but it remains one of the cheapest european countries to visit in july or August. It also launched a new digital nomad visa. Therefore, it is a great spot for long-term travelers.
Bosnia and Herzegovina: The Soul of the Balkans
Sarajevo is one of the most affordable capitals in Europe. It is a city that does not demand you spend money. You can wander the streets for hours and never get bored. An average pint of beer costs only €2.30.
I was amazed by the beauty of the countryside. Mostar is famous for its iconic 16th-century bridge. The people are super welcoming and the history is powerful. You can find a traditional burek for less than five euros.
Bosnia is incredibly affordable. Think of €1 coffees and €4 plates of cevapi. It is one of the cheapest cities in europe for students because your money stretches so far. Finally, the area around the Tara river is absolutely stunning for nature lovers.
Montenegro: Mountains and Fjord-like Bays
Montenegro is a true Balkan gem. It is known for its rugged mountains and beautiful bays. The daily budget for two people is around $73. While it is not as cheap as Albania, it is still very affordable.
Kotor is a medieval walled city at the head of a breathtaking bay. However, I preferred Perast because it is quieter and the views are unreal. You can find full apartment rentals for as low as $22 per night in some areas.
Inland, you will find Durmitor National Park. It is a haven for hikers with budget guesthouses. Montenegro offers a great variety of landscapes within a few hours’ drive. Plus, cards are accepted almost everywhere, which makes travel easy.
Hungary: Spas and Unique Culture
Hungary is a great place to enjoy culture without spending too much. Budapest is famous for its thermal spas and historic architecture. I found that it remains remarkably cheap compared to Western capitals.
If you want to avoid the main crowds, head to Miskolc. It features a busy flea market and a sleek tram system. This summer, the Cave Baths of Miskolctapolca re-open after a revamp. An average pint in Miskolc is only €1.60.
August is a sunny and warm time to visit. Foreign arrivals to Hungary have shown strong growth recently. The city of Eger or the wine regions also offer great value. Hungary is definitely one of the top 10 cheapest countries to visit in europe.
Latvia: The Art Nouveau Hub
Riga has been named the cheapest city to visit in Europe for 2025. A 2-night stay at a 3-star hotel costs about $165 for two people. I loved the colorful medieval and Art Nouveau architecture.
The food and drink are reasonably priced. You can always find a good meal under €10 at the Lido restaurant chain. Additionally, the creative scene in Riga is very buzzy. It is a highly walkable city with a phenomenal culinary scene.
Latvia is part of the Baltic states, which are all great for budget travelers. The total cost for a short break for two people is approximately £253. Riga is an excellent choice for those seeking a cheap western european countries to visit alternative in the north.
Portugal: Western Europe’s Value Champion
Portugal is often the most affordable option in Western Europe. Lisbon is the cheapest city in this region. A 2-night stay for two people is around $165. I found the gastronomy to be sublime and the wine to be very cheap.
Costa da Caparica is a beautiful alternative to the expensive Algarve. It has great beaches near Lisbon. Porto also offers historic architecture and affordable meals. At that time, I could get a 3-course menu for 10 euros in some local spots.
Gradually, Portugal has become more popular, but it remains a smart choice for travelers on a budget. It is one of the best summer destinations in europe for young adults who want beauty and a fun vibe. Therefore, it completes my list of the best cheap places.
Important Tips for Saving Money in August
Traveling during the high season is tricky. But you can still save a lot. First of all, book your flights early to get the best deals. Look for flights to major hubs like Paris or London and then use a low-cost airline to reach your final destination.
Trains in Europe offer some incredible deals if you book in advance. Long-distance routes can be booked 90 days ahead. For example, you can travel from Berlin to Prague for as little as €18.90 with a stopover in Dresden. Additionally, look for regional day tickets like the Lander ticket in Germany, which offers unlimited travel for as low as €22.
Public transport and tourist passes are also great for saving money. Many cities offer passes that include transport and museum entry. Also, eat off the beaten track. Local restaurants are always cheaper and more authentic than tourist traps.
Finally, do not forget about free attractions. Most European capitals are packed with free culture and history. You can visit the British Museum in London for free. In Paris, you can walk through the stunning Sacre-Cœur Basilica without spending a cent.
Statistical Breakdown of Travel Costs (2025-2026 Projections)
| City | Average Pint | 2-Night 3-Star Hotel (Two People) | Key Feature |
| Riga, Latvia | €3.50 | ~$165 | Art Nouveau |
| Vilnius, Lithuania | ~€3.50 | ~$143 | Baroque Architecture |
| Warsaw, Poland | ~€3.00 | ~$131 | Milk Bars |
| Sarajevo, Bosnia | €2.30 | ~$120 | Bazaars & History |
| Tirana, Albania | €1.65 | ~$135 | Bunk’art Museum |
| Lille, France | ~€5.00 | ~$159 | Flemish Influence |
| Porto, Portugal | ~€2.50 | ~$159 | Wine & River Views |
On top of that, consider the cheapest countries to visit in europe 2026 trends. Experts predict that the Balkans and the Baltic states will remain the leaders in affordability. Albania and Romania are expected to see the largest growth in arrivals. Therefore, you should plan to visit these spots before they become too crowded.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Which European country is the cheapest to visit in August?
- Albania is the most affordable country to visit in August, with a total daily budget estimated at $44 for two people.
- Which country is best to visit in August in Europe?
- Albania is highly recommended as summer is the best time to soak in its vibrant coastal life and beaches. Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, is also a top choice as it is at its “sunny best” in August during the Sarajevo Film Festival.
- Which part of Europe is the cheapest to visit?
- Eastern Europe is the most budget-friendly region, containing seven of Europe’s ten cheapest cities. The Balkans are also highlighted as a “best-kept secret” for low prices on meals, accommodation, and transport.
- Where to go for a 3 day trip to Europe?
- Skopje in North Macedonia is perfect for a cheap and pleasant long weekend. Gdansk, Poland, and Chisinau, Moldova, are also ideal for short two or three-day breaks.
- Is it worth going to Europe in August?
- Yes, because it is possible to find stunning beaches and incredible cities without going over budget by choosing affordable destinations. Most of Europe experiences its most comfortable weather during this month.
- Which country is the cheapest in August?
- Albania offers the lowest costs in August, followed closely by other affordable nations like Bulgaria and Romania.
- Where to go in August in Europe not too hot?
- Madeira remains mild with temperatures between 22 and 24 degrees. Finland and Norway are also excellent for “cool-cations” because they offer more moderate temperatures compared to Southern Europe.
- Where is the best vacation spot in August?
- Costa da Caparica in Portugal and the Canary Islands are ideal for enjoying the summer sun affordably. Ksamil in the Albanian Riviera is another top-rated spot for its crystal-clear turquoise waters.
- Which international trip is best in August?
- A trip to Madeira is ranked as a top low-cost international option for August. Alternatively, the Albanian Riviera rivals heavyweights like Greece and Italy for a fraction of the cost.
- Where is still cheap in Europe?
- Cities like Tirana, Sarajevo, Riga, and Vilnius remain significantly cheaper than major hubs like London or Paris. Georgia is also noted as an incredibly budget-friendly destination for 2026.
- Is $100 a day enough in Europe?
- Yes, $100 is more than enough in many countries; for example, a mid-range traveler in Georgia typically spends between $75 and $95 a day. In Poland, a mid-range budget is estimated at roughly $82 per day.
- Which country is best for travel in low budget?
- Albania is frequently cited as the best for low budgets due to $3 meals and $20 beachfront stays. Poland is also a budget-travel paradise with prices nearly half of those in Western Europe.
- Where is a good city break in August?
- Krakow, Budapest, and Bucharest are excellent choices for exploring culture and history without high costs. Sarajevo is another great option due to its affordability and major film festival.
- How much does a 7 day Europe trip cost?
- A week in Greece can cost approximately €700 per person for a standard stay. In lower-cost countries like Albania, a 7-day trip for two could be as low as $308 based on daily averages.
- What are the top 3 tourist destinations in Europe?
- France is the world’s most popular destination, while Italy and Spain hold the highest number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Concluding words
August is a prime time to visit Europe if you target budget-friendly regions like the Balkans and Eastern Europe. Destinations such as Albania, Poland, and Hungary offer stunning beaches and rich history at a fraction of the price of Western capitals.
By booking in advance, using public transport, and enjoying free cultural attractions, travelers can experience a high-quality summer vacation while staying firmly within their budget.
