I have explored more than half of the countries on the European continent, and I can tell you that shockingly affordable places exist there. People often believe that a trip to Europe must cost a fortune, but that is simply a myth. Tourist hotspots like Paris or Zurich can cost upward of $250 to $400 every single day, yet many beautiful destinations cost less than $100 a day. Cheap Travel Deals in Europe are available if you know where to look and when to book. I will share my personal experiences and the secrets I learned while finding flights to europe cheap and staying within a tight budget.
First of all, you must understand that timing is everything when you want to save money. The spring shoulder season offers a perfect mix of lower prices and fewer crowds. My data shows that searches made for travel between mid-April and late May of 2026 result in significant savings. Additionally, you should try to fly on a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday. These mid-week departures typically cost 20% to 35% less than weekend flights. Business travelers book on Monday mornings and leisure travelers browse on Friday nights, therefore you should avoid those times. On top of that, you must book your flight six to ten weeks before you plan to depart.
Tirana, Albania: The Best Budget Capital
Albania is one of the most affordable countries in all of Europe. It is up to 60% more affordable than Western Europe when you look at dining, lodging, and transport. Tirana delivers a Mediterranean lifestyle at Balkan prices. You can find a modern one-bedroom apartment for €300 to €500 a month. Traditional Albanian meals cost only €3 to €5. Plus, an excellent espresso is just €1 everywhere you go. I spent a week here and found the culture very welcoming.
First of all, you should visit Bunk’Art 1, which is a former Cold War bunker turned into a museum. The entry is only about €4. Later, you can take a day trip to Dürres Beach for a coastal escape. If you are a digital nomad, the internet is reliable with an average speed of 48.78 Mbps. Coworking spaces like Innospace or Dutch Hub cost only $100 to $150 per month. Finally, you should try a savory pastry called Byrek for just €1 or €2.
Belgrade, Serbia: An Underrated Gem
Serbia is one of the most underrated travel destinations in the region. It feels authentic and lived in rather than touristy. Most travelers begin in Belgrade, a city defined by its rivers. You can walk through the Kalemegdan Fortress for free and see the best sunset views. Additionally, the city has a strong cafe culture where locals talk for hours. For a budget trip, you should plan on a ballpark of $60 to $85 per day.
Ćevapi are grilled sausages served with flatbread and they are a must-try. A generous portion cost me about €6 or €7. On top of that, you can find burek at local bakeries for €1.50 to €2.50. If you want a slower pace, you should head north to Novi Sad. Gradually, you will see that Serbia offers culture and nature without heavy crowds. This city is a top pick for cheap europe tours because your money stretches so far.
Sofia, Bulgaria: History Meets Nature
Bulgaria is a country where ancient history and dramatic landscapes come together. It is still incredibly affordable for the mature traveler. In Sofia, you can explore Roman ruins and massive Orthodox churches like the Alexander Nevski Cathedral. The city is about 50% cheaper than major Western capitals. You can hike the Vitosha Mountain just outside the city for panoramic views. Plus, public transport is very cheap.
I recommend a visit to Plovdiv, which is one of the oldest cities in Europe. Its old town has colorful houses and Roman amphitheaters. For a budget stay, you should plan on $65 to $95 per day. Similarly, the food is very satisfying. You can start a meal with a shopska salad for about €2.50. Later, you can try a hot, flaky banitsa pastry for around €1.50. Therefore, Sofia is a perfect stop for those who love history without high costs.
Kraków, Poland: Medieval Splendor
Poland is bursting with history, charm, and natural beauty. It is one of the three cheapest nations in the European Union. Kraków combines medieval splendor with affordable stays and meals. You can explore the Main Square and the Wawel Castle. The historic old town amazes visitors from all over the world. For outdoor lovers, the Tatra Mountains offer stunning alpine lakes and dramatic peaks.
You should visit the Wieliczka Salt Mine, which is an underground city. Additionally, you should take a deeply moving trip to Auschwitz. Poland is very affordable compared to Western Europe. For budget travel, plan on a ballpark of $65 to $95 per day. On top of that, the food is incredible. You can find pierogi heaven with varieties from sweet to savory for €5 to €7. Finally, you should try zapiekanki from street food trucks.
Bucharest, Romania: The City of Contrasts
Romania is a captivating country with much to discover. The capital, Bucharest, is vibrant and full of life. It features the Palace of the Parliament, which is the second-largest building in the world. It took me about 45 minutes just to walk around it. Additionally, the city has low costs for food and accommodation. You can explore the Lipscani historic district for a mix of 19th-century architecture.
I highly recommend visiting Transylvania. You can explore medieval towns and stunning castles associated with the Dracula legend. Visit Bran Castle and Brasov at the foot of the mountains. For budget travel, plan around $75 to $115 per day. Gradually, you will notice the price difference between rural areas and the city. You can eat sarmale or cabbage rolls for €4 to €6. Therefore, Romania is a top choice for a high-quality experience on a low budget.
Budapest, Hungary: Culture and Relaxation
Hungary is a perfect blend of culture, architecture, and relaxation. Budapest is one of the most elegant cities in the world. You can walk along the Danube Promenade or cross historic bridges. One of the most unique experiences is visiting the thermal baths. Bath houses like Széchenyi and Gellert are a huge part of local culture. However, the city remains very reasonably priced.
You should visit Fisherman’s Bastion for panoramic views of the city. Additionally, you can find eclectic drinks under €4 at ruin bars like Szimpla Kert. For budget travel, you should plan on $75 to $110 per day. Food like goulash or lángos costs only €5 to €8. My favorite snack was the lángos, which is fried dough with cheese and garlic. Later, you can explore the wine region of Eger for a calm cultural escape.
Sarajevo, Bosnia & Herzegovina: A Favorite for Food
Sarajevo is one of the most affordable capitals in Europe. It is rich in history and offers cheap beer, food, and lodging. I loved wandering the Baščaršija bazaar and seeing the Sebilj Fountain. You can visit the Latin Bridge, which is the site where World War I started. Additionally, the city is surrounded by beautiful mountains. For budget travelers, Sarajevo is a dream destination.
You can eat very well for very little here. I grabbed ćevapi in local grill houses for only €4 to €6. Burek with yogurt makes a perfect cheap lunch for around €3. On top of that, you must try the ritual of Bosnian coffee for about €1.50. Finally, you can find mid-range hotels for around €45 per night. Therefore, you can enjoy a full cultural experience without breaking the bank.
Ljubljana, Slovenia: A Nature Lover’s Dream
Slovenia often surprises people because it looks expensive, but it really is not. The capital, Ljubljana, is small, green, and extremely walkable. You can stroll along the river or explore local markets. A cable car can take you to Ljubljana Castle for sweeping views. Additionally, the most famous spot is Lake Bled with its island church. You can walk around the lake or hike to viewpoints.
Triglav National Park is a highlight with turquoise rivers and waterfalls. The Soča Valley is especially stunning and one of the most beautiful river valleys in Europe. For budget travel, plan on $90 to $130 per day. Though it feels like an expensive alpine dream, the costs are manageable. You should visit in the spring to see the flowers bloom. Also, Slovenia is a safe and quiet destination for mature travelers.
Tbilisi, Georgia: Legendary Hospitality
Most people do not even realize that Georgia is in Europe. It is located in the Caucasus region and blends ancient traditions with breathtaking landscapes. You can explore the historic streets of Tbilisi or hike in the mountains. The city features century-old churches alongside modern glass architecture. I recommend visiting Okatse Canyon and Kinchkha Canyon. I spent an entire day there for just $25 including a tip.
Georgia cuisine is unforgettable and very cheap. Additionally, Georgia has the cheapest visa cost at only £49. For budget travel, plan on a ballpark of $45 to $70 per day. However, the internet speed is a bit lower compared to Spain or Portugal. On top of that, you can experience legendary Georgian hospitality. Gradually, you will find that most travelers wish they had more time here. It is a hidden gem that remains shockingly cheap.
Kotor, Montenegro: Visual Drama
Montenegro is one of the most visually dramatic countries in Europe. The Bay of Kotor looks like a fjord surrounded by steep mountains. Walking through the old town of Kotor feels like stepping back in time. You can hike the fortress trail above the city for one of the best views in the Balkans. Additionally, the town of Perast offers calm waterfronts and historic stone buildings.
Durmitor National Park is perfect for mountain lakes and canyon views. It contains the Tara Canyon, which is one of the deepest in Europe. Montenegro offers coastline and old-world charm without the high prices of neighboring countries. For budget travel, plan on $95 to $140 per day. Similarly, you can find local beer for about €1.50. Therefore, you should visit before the secret gets out.
Karpathos, Greece: Beyond the Crowds
Greece is one of the most popular destinations in Europe for a good reason. You can admire the ancient ruins of Athens or relax on beautiful islands. However, islands like Mykonos and Santorini are expensive and very crowded. I strongly recommend visiting lesser-known islands like Karpathos. It has crystal clear water, colorful towns, and far fewer tourists. Athens is an absolute must-see for its majestic Acropolis.
You can grab a souvlaki wrap from a street stall for around €3 or €4. For sit-down meals, local tavernas are unbeatable. A meal with a half-liter of wine often costs around €15 per person. For budget travel, plan on a ballpark of $120 to $170 per day. Plus, hotel rates and dining prices are lower in the spring. Finally, you should climb the Acropolis in the morning to avoid the heat.
Lisbon, Portugal: Sunny and Mild
Lisbon is perfect for exploring on foot or by hopping on vintage trams. The sunny spring days and mild temperatures make it a top choice. You can climb the hills or visit the neighborhoods of Alfama and Bairro Alto. Additionally, getting around is easy with the Lisboa Card, which includes public transport. I found that a few euros stretch far for a picnic in the city.
Porto in the north is another gorgeous and affordable destination. You can see the blue tiles at Sal Bento station or walk across the Gaia bridge. For food, you should ends up in tiny family-run tascas. A lunch with soup, a main dish, a drink, and coffee often costs €10 to €12. Finally, no trip is complete without a pastel de nata for €1 or less. Therefore, Portugal offers a high quality of life at a lower cost than Spain.
Granada, Spain: Free Tapas Tradition
Spain is known for its relaxed lifestyle and beautiful beaches. Madrid is vibrant with never-ending cafes and nightclubs. You should visit the Prado Museum, which offers free evening entry. However, Granada is the dream city for a bargain. The tradition of a free tapa with every drink is very much alive here. After three drinks and three tapas, I was essentially full and had spent only €10 to €15.
Barcelona is also special before the summer crowds arrive. You can take in Park Güell or the Sagrada Família. Additionally, you can find churros con chocolate for about €5. For budget travel, plan on the shoulder season to save money. Gradually, you will find that Spain has great cultural and geographic diversity. Finally, you should stroll through El Retiro park on a warm afternoon.
Reykjavík, Iceland: Thawing in the Spring
Iceland is usually expensive, but visiting during the shoulder season can make it a steal. Reykjavík begins to thaw by March, and cafes set out their tables. Flights from the East Coast of the US average about six hours. The geothermal pools like Sundhöllin offer an inexpensive way to warm up. Additionally, the average combined flight and hotel cost for a spring getaway is $859. This makes it an easy and artful long-weekend escape.
You can take day trips for whale-watching or waterfall hikes. Though the air stays cool, the scenery is breathtaking. The city has a creative edge with events like the Reykjavík Arts Festival. However, you must budget carefully for food, as groceries and restaurants can be pricey. Later, you can walk along black-sand beaches. Therefore, Iceland is a great value if you time your visit correctly.
Bari, Italy: The Best Bang for Your Buck
Traveling in Italy can be costly, but the Puglia region offers a great alternative. I recommend staying in Bari instead of the expensive Amalfi Coast. I stayed for four nights in Bari for the same price as one night in Positano. You can see the Norman castles and watch grandmas make fresh pasta in the streets. Additionally, you can take day trips to Alberobello to see the famous trulli buildings.
Matera is another incredible site nearby where buildings are carved into caves. In Naples, you can find the best pizza margherita for €5 to €7. On the contrary, Northern Italy can be much more expensive. For budget travel, you should always pay in the local currency to avoid high fees. Gradually, you will find that Southern Italy provides amazing food and culture at a fraction of the usual price. Finally, you should use the extensive train network to get around cheaply.
Finding Cheap Flights and Tour Packages
When you search for the best website for cheap flights to europe, I suggest starting with Google Flights. It has an interactive map that shows a wide range of prices. I found a round trip flights to europe under $500 by being flexible with my destination. For example, Dublin was available for $437 round trip. Additionally, you should use the ±3 day search trick to save up to €80 per ticket. Skyscanner is also great for finding budget airlines that others miss.
If you prefer 7 days europe tour packages or 14 days europe tour packages with flight, you have many options. Contiki offers budget-style tours for travelers aged 18 to 35. Their European Horizon tour sees eight countries in 12 days starting from $1,385. For more mature travelers, companies like FTLO Travel or Flashpack offer groups for those in their 30s and 40s. However, I often find that independent travel is the most rewarding way to see the continent. You can create your own itinerary and move at your own pace.
Transportation Hacks: Eurail and Beyond
A Eurail Pass is a rail pass that covers your ticket cost on trains across 33 countries. It gives you unlimited train journeys for a set number of days. I used a Flexi Global Pass, which allows for a specific number of travel days within a month. This pass provides ultimate flexibility to change your plans without paying high last-minute fares. However, some high-speed and night trains still require a seat reservation fee. These fees usually range from €3 to €12.
FlixBus is an extremely cost-effective option for short or long distances. I once took a bus from Frankfurt to Prague for only $20. Additionally, budget airlines like Ryanair, EasyJet, and Wizz Air offer incredibly cheap fairs if you book in advance. To avoid extra fees, you should travel with a personal item only. I learned the hard way that packing a week’s worth of clothing into a small bag is difficult but saves a lot of money. Gradually, you will become a master of the one-way flights to europe strategy.
Accommodation and Budgeting Tips
Lodging in Europe does not have to break the bank. Hostels are a great option and often offer private rooms that are cheaper than hotels. Many hostels have kitchens where you can cook your own meals to save money. Additionally, you should consider Airbnb only if you have a large group to split the cost. I found that staying next to a train station makes life much easier and saves on transport costs. For a truly free experience, you could look into Couchsurfing, but you must prioritize your safety.
You should determine exactly how much money you will need before you go. Prepare a realistic budget that includes accommodation, dining, and attractions. I like to use a dedicated savings account for my travels. On top of that, you should bring a debit card with a Visa or Mastercard logo for the best exchange rates at ATMs. Always choose to be charged in the local currency rather than dollars on card machines. Therefore, you will get the exact market exchange rate instead of a higher rate set by the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where in Europe is it cheapest to travel?
Eastern Europe and the Balkan region are the most affordable areas for travelers. Countries like Romania and Albania offer very low costs for food, rent, and transport.
Which country is best for travel in low budget in Europe?
Romania is an excellent choice because it scores very low on the cost of living index. Additionally, Albania and Georgia provide high-quality experiences for a very small amount of money.
What is the cheapest way to travel throughout Europe?
Low-cost carriers like Ryanair or Wizz Air usually offer the lowest prices for long distances. For shorter trips, you can use budget buses like FlixBus to save money.
How to travel Europe for really cheap?
You should book your flights at least six to ten weeks in advance to secure the best rates. Additionally, you should stay in hostels, eat street food, and use free walking tours to keep your costs down.
Where is still cheap in Europe?
Cities like Tirana, Sofia, and Sarajevo remain very affordable compared to Western European capitals. Kraków and Budapest also offer great value for history and culture lovers.
Where to go for a 3 day trip to Europe?
Reykjavík is an easy option for a long weekend if you fly from the East Coast of the United States. Also, major hubs like London or Amsterdam are great for short breaks because they have so many flight options.
Is $100 a day enough in Europe?
Yes, it is more than enough in many countries like Serbia, Bulgaria, and Poland where budget travelers spend between $60 and $95 daily. However, you might need to budget more for expensive cities like Paris or London.
What is the cheapest month to travel to Europe?
The low season months of January, February, March, and November offer the lowest rates for rooms and flights. You should avoid the summer and Christmas periods if you want to save the most money.
What is the cheapest holiday destination in Europe?
Romania is often ranked as the most affordable destination for budget-conscious visitors. Bulgaria and Albania are similarly cheap for dining and lodging.
What is the 3 month rule in Europe?
The Schengen rule allows visitors from many countries to stay for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This is about three months of travel time across most of the continent.
How much is a 7 day Eurail pass?
In 2026, an adult Eurail Global Pass for 7 days of travel within one month costs €381 for second class. A first-class version of the same pass costs €495.
Is 1000 euros enough for 2 weeks in Europe?
Yes, it is enough if you visit countries in the Balkans or Eastern Europe where you can live on €50 to €100 per day. Therefore, 1000 euros can easily cover a fourteen-day trip in those regions.
How much does a 7 day Europe trip cost?
I found that a one-week trip to cities like Reykjavík or Dublin costs between $859 and $892 including flights and hotels. Similarly, a trip to Copenhagen costs around $901 for the same period.
What are the best months to visit Europe?
The shoulder season months of April, May, September, and October provide the best mix of good weather and lower prices. Plus, the crowds are much smaller during these times.
Which part of Europe is the cheapest to visit?
Eastern Europe and the Balkans are significantly cheaper than the rest of the continent. You will find that your money goes much further in these regions.
Which country is best for travel in low budget?
Romania and Albania are the top choices for anyone on a tight budget. Georgia also offers incredible value and legendary hospitality for very little money.
Which EU country has the lowest prices?
Romania has the lowest cost of living index in the European Union. Poland is also among the top three cheapest nations in the EU.
Where to go for a short break in Europe?
Cities like Amsterdam, Barcelona, and Rome are perfect for a short break because they have so many attractions in a small area. You can also consider Cologne in Germany for a quick and budget-friendly getaway.
Concluding words
I have shown you that affordable European adventures are within your reach if you use the right strategies. First of all, you should focus on Eastern Europe and the Balkans to get the most value for your money. Additionally, you can find flights to europe cheap by booking mid-week and avoiding peak holiday dates.
However, you must remember that hostels and public transport are the best ways to keep your daily costs under $100. Finally, you should stay flexible and embrace the unexpected moments that make travel so special.
