I have spent years exploring Central Europe and the Balkans for less than €50 a day. Sometimes I spent even less when I traveled at a slower pace. Europe is a dream for many travelers. However, the costs can feel scary. I know how it feels to want a grand adventure without a grand bill. I have good news for you. You do not need to spend a fortune to see amazing places. In 2026, the travel world is changing. Interest in flights is up 9%, but international airfare is down 10%. This means you can stretch your money further than before. I want to share my personal journey through the Best Low Budget European Countries.
First of all, I must talk about the shift in how we travel now. We are in the era of the “one big trip”. We choose fewer trips but make them more meaningful. I have found that the eastern and southeastern parts of the continent offer the most value. You can find medieval castles in Romania or quiet beaches in Albania at half the cost of major cities like London or Paris. These are low budget europe destinations where your dreams become real.
The Hidden Jewel: North Macedonia
I found a true treasure in North Macedonia. It is the most affordable haven for budget travelers in 2026. The costs here are about 50% lower than the average in the European Union. A daily budget of $30 to $50 is often enough for a great time. On average, visitors spend about $125 per day here. This is much cheaper than the $240 you might spend in the United Kingdom or $305 in France. Therefore, it is a top choice for a low cost europe country.
I spent a lot of time in the capital city, Skopje. It is weird and wonderful. The architecture is quirky and recent. I paid about €35 for a budget apartment there. Additionally, an excellent meal cost me between €5 and €10. I also loved Lake Ohrid. It is one of the oldest and deepest lakes in Europe. The water is clear. The views are peaceful. I saw many frescoed medieval churches there. Apartments on the water can start from only €25 per night in the off-season. A meal at a restaurant might cost you only $4 to $12.
The Mediterranean Secret: Albania
Albania is another place that stole my heart. I often call it the best-kept secret of Europe for outdoor fun. It has stunning coastlines and dramatic mountains. Many people say it is what Greece was 30 years ago. The Albanian Riviera is beautiful. Crystal-clear waters. White pebble beaches. Ksamil and Dhërmi are highlights for me.
I found the prices to be incredibly low. A daily budget of $30 to $50 is very comfortable here. You can find a hostel bed from $10 or a hotel room from $20 per night. Street food costs only $1 or $2. Plus, it is legal to camp anywhere in Albania. This is a great tip for those who want to save even more money. I also suggest visiting Korca and Gjirokastra. Korca has a youthful energy because of its university. It is one of the low budget european countries for international students because of this vibe. I stayed in a beautiful apartment in Korca for a minimal cost. Gjirokastra is a UNESCO site with Ottoman architecture. You can find rooms there starting from €25.
Bulgaria: The King of Value
I must mention Bulgaria when we talk about low price european countries. It is consistently the cheapest overall destination for a seven-night trip. The interest in Sofia is up by 136% for 2026. This city dates back to the 5th Century BCE. I found that you can stay in a backpacker hostel for about $8 to $15 per night. You can eat three decent meals for a very low price.
Bulgaria is a year-round destination. In the winter, I enjoyed the ski resorts like Bansko. It is the cheapest ski resort in Europe. A day pass there might cost you only £32. In the summer, the Black Sea beaches are the place to be. I recommend Varna and Sunny Beach. On top of that, the Rose Valley Festival in June is a unique experience. Most of the best sights, like national parks and museums, are free to visit. Bulgaria truly offers a lot for a small budget.
The Castle Land: Romania
Romania offers an incredible journey through time. It is a land of medieval towns and imposing castles. I felt like I was in a storybook while visiting Transylvania. Bran Castle is famous because of the Dracula legends. Peles Castle is a Neo-Renaissance masterpiece. I found Romania to be very affordable. A daily budget of $35 to $50 is doable.
I explored Bucharest, the capital. It has the world’s second-largest building, the Palace of Parliament. I also spent time in Brașov and Sibiu. Sibiu has charming old streets and a mountain backdrop. You can find hotels there for $50 a night. Romania has a great train network too. A train from Bucharest to Brașov costs about $10. Additionally, the food is hearty and delicious. You can find street food like pretzels or sandwiches for under a dollar. Therefore, Romania is a top low budget europe country.
Central European Charm: Poland and Hungary
Poland and Hungary are classic choices for low budget european countries. I have visited them many times. Poland combines history with a modern feel. Kraków is very popular. Its Main Market Square is huge. However, I also suggest Wroclaw and Gdansk. Wroclaw is full of colorful buildings. I found it to be very affordable even at higher-end places. A daily budget of $35 to $55 is perfect for Poland. You can find a double room for less than £25 per night in big cities.
Hungary is another winner. Budapest is famous for its nightlife and thermal baths. It remains a budget-friendly option. I loved the “ruin bars” there. They are unique and cheap. But do not stop at Budapest. I visited Szeged and Pecs for better value. Szeged has amazing Art Nouveau architecture. Pecs has a Mediterranean vibe. I found that you can enjoy the thermal baths in Szeged without the big crowds. Hungary is one of the low income countries in europe where your money goes very far.
The Baltic Beauty: Lithuania
I find that people often overlook Lithuania. That is a mistake. It is the most affordable of the three Baltic States. The capital, Vilnius, is a great walking city. It has many free sights like Cathedral Square and the Bernardine Gardens. I stayed in a basic hotel in Vilnius for €45 per night. You can even find hostel beds for $10.
I also visited Kaunas, the second-largest city. It is perfect for a weekend break. It has a vibrant street art scene and a beautiful Old Town. I found the cafes in Lithuania to be lively and cheap. You can have a comfortable trip with a daily budget of $40 to $60. On top of that, wild camping is legal here too. This makes it another great option for a low budget europe country.
Mediterranean Value: Portugal and Greece
You might think that Portugal and Greece are too expensive. However, that is not true if you plan correctly. Portugal is the most affordable destination in Western Europe. Lisbon and Porto are wonderful. I found that a “Menu do Dia” (set lunch) in Portugal costs about €10. A glass of wine can be as low as €1. I also suggest going north to the Douro Valley or the Azores islands. These places are beautiful and offer great value.
Greece is also very affordable if you stay away from the most famous islands like Mykonos. I visited the Peloponnese peninsula. It has fine beaches and ancient ruins like Olympia. I also loved Crete. It is the largest island and offers great value. You can find budget-friendly stays in towns like Chania. Greece is a perfect low price european country for those who love history and the sun.
Practical Tips for Your Budget Adventure
I want to give you some advice on how to save even more. First of all, travel during the off-season. I have seen prices drop by 30% to 50% in the shoulder seasons like May or September. Which european country is least expensive often depends on when you go.
Secondly, use public transportation. Most of these countries have excellent bus and train systems. I often use the Balkan Flexipass for unlimited travel in the region. It is a very cost-effective tool. Additionally, you should eat like a local. Skip the tourist restaurants. Head to the local markets or street food vendors. I have found that traditional meals at neighborhood spots cost very little.
Finally, look for free attractions. Many cities offer free walking tours. I have used these to learn about the history of Skopje, Vilnius, and Riga. Also, check for free admission days at museums. Many major sites like the Acropolis have free days throughout the year.
FAQ
Which is the cheapest country in Europe?
First of all, North Macedonia is currently the most affordable haven on the continent. Bulgaria and Bosnia & Herzegovina also offer some of the lowest overall expenses for travelers. North Macedonia is easily the most budget-friendly country in the Balkans.
What is the top 10 cheapest country to live in?
Poland, Hungary, Romania, and Portugal are excellent choices for a long stay. You can also look at Slovakia, Latvia, Lithuania, Albania, and Bulgaria for low costs. North Macedonia completes this list of high-value destinations.
What European country has a low cost of living?
Bulgaria consistently ranks as the nation with the lowest overall price levels in the European Union. North Macedonia is also a top choice because its costs are fifty percent lower than the average. Poland and Hungary provide high-quality urban life at a fraction of the cost found in the west.
Which European country has cheap rent?
North Macedonia has budget apartments for only thirty-five euros per night. Also, Bulgaria and Poland offer many low-cost rental options in their major cities. Hungary remains a winner for affordable apartment stays.
What is the cheapest but safest country to live in?
Romania is one of the safest spots with low crime rates. Lithuania is another safe choice that is easy on your wallet. Poland is also known as a place where travelers feel secure and welcome.
Where is the nicest but cheapest place to live?
North Macedonia is a hidden gem with beautiful areas like Lake Ohrid. Albania has a stunning Riviera that rivals Greece but costs far less. These spots offer nature and peace without the high price.
Which Schengen country is the cheapest to live in?
Bulgaria is one of the most affordable countries in the Schengen area. Poland, Hungary, and Lithuania are also part of this zone and offer great value for your money.
Where is the easiest place to live in Europe?
Georgia is a fine base for digital nomads because you can stay for a full year without a visa. Albania is also a great pick because it is compact and easy to navigate.
Which EU country has the cheapest property?
Spain has rural property that costs less than half of the price in the United Kingdom. Additionally, Bulgaria and Romania have the lowest overall price levels in the European Union.
Which country gives easy Schengen?
Bulgaria and Romania are now part of the Schengen zone and are very welcoming to new visitors. The Baltic states like Lithuania also offer high connectivity and easy travel for those on a tour.
Concluding words
You can see the whole of Europe without a massive bank account. North Macedonia and Albania offer the best value for your money. Bulgaria and Romania are also perfect for a low-budget trip. These countries have history, beauty, and local charm. Do not wait for a fortune to start your journey. Europe is a maze of wonders. Go and see them today. As Traveler_Joe says, “The best views in the world are the ones that fit your budget.”
