I have visited more than half of all the countries in Europe. I can tell you that there are some incredibly beautiful and shockingly affordable places to see. Most people think that a trip to Europe requires a massive amount of money. They see the high prices in cities like London, Paris, or Zurich and they hesitate. It is true that those hotspots can cost you $250 to $400 every single day. However, I have found cheap travel locations europe that cost less than $100 a day.
First of all, you must understand that Europe is ideal for budget travel. It offers diverse cultures and rich history without the high price tags if you know where to look. I want to share my top picks for the cheapest travel destinations europe for your 2025 adventures. These spots are perfect for mature travelers who love culture and nature but want to keep their savings safe. I have explored these places personally. Therefore, I can give you the real details on what to do and how much to spend.
Bulgaria: The Underrated Winter and Summer Gem
Bulgaria is one of the cheapest travel places europe has to offer. It is a country where ancient history and dramatic landscapes come together. I first visited Sofia, the capital, and I was amazed by how much you can see for very little money. You can explore Roman ruins and massive Orthodox churches like the Alexander Nevski Cathedral. On top of that, the city is very close to nature. You can hike the Vitosha Mountain just outside the city for fresh air and great views.
If you love the snow, Bulgaria is a top pick for cheap holiday destinations europe 2025. I recommend the ski resort of Bansko. It sits beneath the Pirin Mountains and combines reliable snow with a UNESCO-protected old town. Additionally, it is very affordable. A lift pass and ski hire will cost you about £63. A pint of beer there is only £1.23. This makes it a great choice for a winter break that does not burn through your savings.
For your daily budget in Bulgaria, you should plan for $30 to $50 if you are a budget traveler. If you want mid-range comfort, $110 to $165 per day is a safe bet. Gradually, you will see that your money stretches much further here than in Western Europe.
Albania: The Rising Star of the Balkans
Albania is a huge surprise. It is starting to become a popular destination, and it is about time. It has pristine beaches, epic mountains, and delicious food. I believe it is one of the most beautiful cheap holiday locations europe offers. It borders Greece, Montenegro, and North Macedonia, so it is easy to reach.
The capital city is Tirana. It is full of colorful street art and lively streets. I recommend you visit the Bunk’art 1 museum, which is a Cold War bunker. It costs only about £4 to enter. Later, you can head to the Albanian Riviera. This is where you will find the finest beaches in the country. You can find an apartment for as little as $30 to $35 per night in some areas.
Daily life is very affordable. Street food costs only $1 to $2. A full meal at a restaurant might cost you between $5 and $15. Plus, it is legal to camp anywhere in Albania. You can save a lot of money on rooms if you have a tent or a campervan. For a comfortable trip, a budget of $30 to $50 per day is perfect.
Poland: Medieval Charm and Modern Vibes
Poland is a country that I could promote endlessly. It is bursting with history and charm. I think it is one of the most underrated cheap vacation destinations europe has for travelers. I recommend you start in Krakow. It was the capital of Poland for centuries. Its historic old town is vibrant and full of amazing restaurants.
While you are in Krakow, you must visit the Wieliczka Salt Mine. It is an underground city and is a truly unique attraction. Additionally, you should see the Tatra Mountains in the south. They have stunning alpine lakes and dramatic peaks. For food, look for traditional “Milk Bars”. You can get a hearty, comforting meal for around £5.
I found that accommodation in Poland is also a great value. A hotel room might cost you between $25 and $45 per night. A daily budget of $35 to $55 is enough for a great experience. “Poland is now one of the most up-and-coming tourist destinations in Eastern Europe,” says Cazzy Magennis. I agree with this completely.
Romania: The Land of Legends and Castles
Romania is a real hidden gem. It has stunning castles, bustling cities, and vast underground caves. I highly recommend the region of Transylvania. It is the home of Dracula legends and medieval towns. I visited Bran Castle, which people associate with the Dracula story. It is a must-see for any history buff.
The capital city is Bucharest. It is vibrant and full of life. You can see the Palace of the Parliament, which is the second largest building in the world. It is absolutely massive. On the contrary, if you want nature, head to the Carpathian Mountains. They offer breathtaking views and excellent hiking.
Romania is very affordable. You should plan on a budget of $40 to $60 per day. A meal at a restaurant costs between $7 and $21. On top of that, the country has a ridesharing platform called BlaBlaCar. It can help you cut costs on transport between cities.
Hungary: Wellness and Architecture
Hungary is a perfect blend of culture and relaxation. I love to base myself in Budapest. It is one of the most elegant cities in Europe. You can walk along the Danube river and explore the Buda Castle. One of the most unique things to do here is visit the thermal baths. These bath houses date back to Roman times. Places like Széchenyi and Gellert are not just for relaxing; they are a huge part of the local culture.
Outside the capital, you can visit Lake Balaton. it is the largest lake in Eastern Europe. It offers a relaxed lakeside atmosphere with small towns and vineyards. Similarly, the wine region of Eger is ideal for a calm cultural escape.
Your daily budget in Hungary will likely be between $40 and $60. Public transport is low-cost and food markets are affordable. Therefore, you can enjoy the city on just a few euros a day. “Hungary delivers classic European beauty at very reasonable prices,” says the expert at Epic Travels.
Serbia: Authentic and Crowd-Free
Serbia is one of the most underrated cheap travel places europe has to offer. Most travelers start in Belgrade, the capital. It is a city shaped by centuries of history. I love to walk through the Kalemegdan Fortress. It is completely free and offers one of the best sunset views. The city has a strong cafe culture where locals spend hours talking and enjoying the day. It feels authentic and lived-in, not touristy.
For a slower pace, you can head north to Novi Sad. It is a charming city with colorful architecture. If you love nature, you should explore Tara National Park. It is known for deep forests and mountain viewpoints. You can hike or kayak there.
For budget travel in Serbia, plan on $40 to $60 per day. Street food is only $1 to $2. Also, Serbian SIM cards are extremely cheap and have great data packages. This is very helpful if you need to use your phone for maps or bookings.
Slovenia: A Nature Lover’s Dream
Slovenia often surprises people because it looks expensive, but it is not. The capital, Ljubljana, is small, green, and very walkable. You can stroll along the river and take a cable car up to the Ljubljana Castle for sweeping views. The city feels very laid-back and has quirky art spaces.
The most famous spot is Lake Bled. It has an island church and a castle perched high above the water. You can walk around the lake or swim in the summer. Additionally, you should visit Triglav National Park. It has turquoise rivers, waterfalls, and dramatic mountain scenery. The Soča Valley is especially stunning.
A budget of $45 to $65 per day is realistic for Slovenia. A hostel might cost $30 to $40, while a hotel is around $40 to $60. Finally, using the bus company Flixbus is an efficient and affordable way to get around the country.
Montenegro: Dramatic Views and Old World Charm
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. I recommend hiking the fortress trail above the city for the best views in the Balkans.
If you want a quieter experience, head to Perast. It has calm waterfronts and historic stone buildings. Inland, you will find Durmitor National Park. It is perfect for hiking and mountain lakes. It is also home to Tara Canyon, one of the deepest in Europe.
Montenegro is one of the cheapest travel destinations europe for those who want coastal beauty without the high prices of Croatia. Plan on a daily budget of $40 to $60. Accommodation in a hotel is usually between $20 and $40 per night.
Georgia: The Hidden Gem of the Caucasus
Most people do not even know that Georgia is a country. It is located in the Caucasus region and blends ancient traditions with breathtaking landscapes. The capital, Tbilisi, is fascinating with old churches and modern architecture. Georgian cuisine is also unforgettable.
I recommend visiting the Caucasus mountains. You can visit Stepantsminda, which is home to the iconic Gergeti Trinity Church. On top of that, you can explore the Okatse Canyon and Kinchkha Canyon. I spent an entire day there for just $25, including a generous tip.
Georgia is incredibly cheap. For budget travel, plan on $45 to $70 per day. For mid-range comfort, you only need about $80 to $130. It is truly one of the cheapest travel places europe can offer.
North Macedonia: A Hidden Treasure
North Macedonia is perhaps the biggest hidden gem in Europe. It is yet to be hit by hordes of tourists. It has idyllic villages, towering mountains, and beautiful lakes. The capital city, Skopje, is full of history and has an authentic old town. I took a walking tour there and learned about its Ottoman influences and its very recent history.
You must visit Lake Ohrid. It is one of the deepest and oldest lakes in Europe. The town of Ohrid is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Additionally, you can go kayaking through Matka Canyon. It is a great place for nature lovers who want to save money.
A budget of $30 to $50 per day is perfect for North Macedonia. A meal at a restaurant costs only $4 to $12. Therefore, it is a fantastic place for a budget-friendly trip.
Essential Tips for Your European Adventure
Now that we have covered the best spots, let us talk about how to save even more. Traveling in Europe is expensive if you are not careful. First of all, you should avoid the biggest tourist hotspots like Rome or Paris in August. They will be very crowded and pricey. However, you can find great deals if you go off the beaten track.
Use Low-Cost Carriers
Airlines like Ryanair, EasyJet, and WizzAir offer very cheap flights around Europe. Sometimes you can find a ticket for as low as £20. Additionally, there is huge news for 2025. Lawmakers have voted to scrap hand luggage fees in the EU. This means you will be able to take a carry-on bag up to 7 kilograms for free. This will save you from the huge fees that budget airlines used to charge.
Find Smart Accommodation
Accommodation is often your largest expense. I recommend looking for Airbnbs or guesthouses. They are often cheaper than hotels for longer stays. In many of these cheap locations, you can find a one-bed Airbnb for around €40 to €60 per night. On top of that, you can often find places with a kitchen. This allows you to cook your own meals and save money on food.
Stay Connected
Reliable internet is not always guaranteed in smaller cities in Eastern Europe. I recommend downloading tools like a VPN before you go. Additionally, you can use eSIMs from companies like Airalo or Holafly. They offer easy data packages so you can stay connected without high roaming fees.
Know Your Rights
If your flight is delayed or cancelled, you have rights under EU law. You might be entitled to compensation of up to €600 depending on the flight distance and delay time. Therefore, do not let the airlines ignore you if something goes wrong.
FAQ
Where in Europe is it cheapest to travel?
You will find the best value in Eastern European countries. These regions often have lower prices because of their unique history and past development. Additionally, the Balkan region offers incredible natural beauty and historic towns for a low cost.
Which is the cheapest country in Europe to visit?
North Macedonia is often at the top of the list for budget travelers. You can expect an average daily budget of about €30 there. Similarly, Serbia is another ultra-cheap choice with a similar daily cost for food and nightlife.
Where to visit Europe on a budget?
I suggest you look at cities like Budapest, Krakow, and Sofia. These cities provide grand architecture and rich history without the high prices of Western Europe. Plus, Tirana in Albania is a great rising star for budget-minded travelers.
Where to go for 3 days in Europe?
Budapest is a perfect choice for a short break. It is famous for its thermal baths and is very easy to see in a few days. Therefore, it is in high demand for city breaks.
Where is still cheap in Europe?
Albania, Montenegro, and Bulgaria remain very affordable for now. Additionally, Poland and Romania are excellent picks for 2025 if you want to save money.
How to travel Europe in low budget?
You must plan your trip around affordable cities rather than major capitals like London or Paris. Eat at local supermarkets or street food stalls to save money. Also, use regional buses and book your transport tickets early to get the best deals.
What is the cheapest holiday destination in Europe?
North Macedonia is one of the most affordable spots you can find. Finally, Bulgaria is a top choice for cheap winter sports and beach resorts.
Is $100 a day enough in Europe?
It is more than enough in many regions. I have found many beautiful places that cost less than $100 a day. In countries like Georgia, you can live well on a budget of $45 to $70 per day.
Which country is best for travel in low budget?
Georgia is a fantastic choice because it combines ancient traditions with low costs. You can even spend a whole day at a canyon for just $25. Gradually, you will see that your money goes a long way here.
What is the cheapest month to go to Europe?
January is the cheapest time to travel. Prices for accommodation are ludicrously low during this month.
Is 1000 euros enough for 2 weeks in Europe?
Yes, it is possible if you choose the right places. A 16-day trip through the Baltic States cost about €1,438 per person for a couple. This included a rental car and nice rooms. Therefore, you can manage with 1000 euros if you stay in cheaper hostels and cook some meals.
Where to go for a short break in Europe?
Hull in the UK is a surprising budget choice with a pretty old town. On top of that, Graz in Austria is a beautiful and walkable city for a quick visit.
What are the top 3 tourist destinations in Europe?
France, Spain, and Italy attract the most visitors. These countries have the most UNESCO World Heritage Sites. However, they can be much more expensive than the eastern regions.
Who are the big 3 in Europe?
Travelers often think of London, Paris, and Rome as the major hubs. These cities are iconic. On the contrary, they are also some of the most expensive places to visit.
Which country is best for 3 days?
Hungary is ideal for a 3-day trip. You can see the main sights of Budapest and enjoy a spa in a short time.
Where to go for a 3 day trip to Europe?
I recommend Prague for its well-preserved history and vibrant nightlife. Later, you can explore the Old Town Square and the castle easily on foot.
What is the cheapest and safest country to visit?
Poland is very safe and remains much cheaper than Western Europe. Similarly, Slovenia is known as a sustainable and safe paradise for nature lovers.
What is the most affordable European country to visit?
Albania and North Macedonia are the leaders in affordability. Additionally, Bulgaria offers great prices for both summer and winter holidays.
Concluding words
Europe does not have to be expensive for mature travelers who want a rich cultural experience. You can see the medieval charm of Poland, the stunning beaches of Albania, and the elegant baths of Hungary for a low price.
Places like Bulgaria, Romania, and North Macedonia provide high value and few crowds. I believe these cheap travel locations europe offers are perfect for your 2025 plans. You can enjoy first-class history and nature while you keep your budget under control.
