Unless you live under a rock, we can all see everything has become considerably expensive. And travel is no exception. Going on trips is almost twice as expensive as in the pre-pandemic era. Finding amazing destinations to visit without breaking the bank is super difficult BUT not impossible.
As someone who has travelled to almost every corner of Europe on a budget, I have the tea on how you can visit many great places and experience new things without draining your bank account.
Criteria for selecting the cheapest countries
I have compiled a list of 15 European countries that are perfect for budget travel. These countries are the cheapest destinations with affordable accommodation, good cheap food and inexpensive means of getting around. They also have a lot of cheap fun activities and amazing experiences. Lastly, and perhaps importantly, they are safe for all colours.
Czech Republic
The Czech Republic is located in Central Europe. It’s known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and cheap beer. The capital and most popular city, Prague, is popular with tourists from all over the world. It’s a small city, popular for its Old Town Square, colourful baroque buildings, gothic churches, and the medieval Astronomical Clock. Great to visit all year round.
The best time to visit
In the summer, the high season runs from June to September. In winter, tourists flock in great numbers to experience the Christmas markets. From the end of November until the first weeks of January.
The shoulder seasons are great for budget travellers. March to late April and October to early November. These months have cooler temperatures and pocket-friendly prices.
Some budget-friendly attractions and experiences
- The Prague Castle & St. Vitus Cathedral, Prague
- Charles Bridge, Prague
- Astronomical clock from 1410, Prague
- Cesky Krumlov Castle, 28 miles from Prague
- Bone Church, Kutna Hora. 37 miles from Prague
- Other fun activities:
Moving around
Transportation in the Czech Republic is one of the cheapest in Europe. It is also very efficient with excellent connections. A 3-day transport pass will cost you 330 Czech Crowns, which is approximately $14. This one ticket covers buses, trams, and the underground metro for 72 hours. It also covers city ferries and the funicular to the Prague Eiffel Tower.
Accommodation
In peak tourist periods, quality and highly rated hotels and apartments cost an average of $100/night. You can find decent hostels with bed spaces starting from $30 a night.
Prices are much cheaper during the off-peak months. If you plan your trip early, you can find deals at some amazing hotels for as low as $60 a night. With all the bells and whistles.
Hungary
Another landlocked country in Central Europe. Rich in history, stunning architecture, and thermal baths. The capital and most popular city, Budapest, is another popular destination for tourists from all over the world. It’s a relatively big city, split in half by the famous Danube River.
The best time to visit
The best time to visit Budapest is from March to May and September to November. The weather is travel-friendly and lots of festivals take place in Budapest. Lastly, there are fewer tourists which means accommodation prices are much cheaper.
June to August are peak season for tourists. But that sweet warm summer weather comes with high prices.
Some budget-friendly attractions and experiences
- The Fisherman’s Bastion
- The Chain Bridge
- Heroe’s square
- Buda Castle
- Hungarian Parliament House
- Thermal baths (Széchenyi, Rudas, Lukács, Gellért). Tickets start from $13
- Other fun activities:
Moving around
Transportation in Hungary is slightly more expensive than in the Czech Republic. The connections are also very good here and the city is best enjoyed by walking. A 24-hour transport pass will cost you about $8. You can save money by walking around the key sites and then buying a one-time ticket when you absolutely need to.
Accommodation
In peak tourist periods, highly rated hotels and apartments cost an average of $80/night. You can find decent hostels with bed spaces starting from $20 a night.
Prices are much cheaper during the off-peak months. If you plan your trip early, you can find deals at some amazing hotels for as low as $50 a night. With all the bells and whistles. The budget options range from $30-50. While hostels can start from $15.
Bulgaria
Another eastern European country that should be on your travel list. Bulgaria offers value for money and is perfect for the budget traveller. It has something for everyone. Beach vacation, cultural experience, history, and exciting outdoor adventures.
The best time to visit
The best time to visit Bulgaria depends on your interest. If you have a tight budget, then you should target the shoulder season. Spring and fall are best for coastal activities without the crowds and prices of summer.
Some budget-friendly attractions and experiences
- The capital city, Sofia, has lots of sites to visit. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the National Palace of Culture, the Vitosha Mountain, Ottoman mosques, and Soviet-era relics.
- The Black Sea coast
- UNESCO sites like Rila Monastery, Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak, and Pirin National Park.
- The Tsarevets Fortress
- The Belogradchik Fortress
- The Rose Valley
Moving around
Transportation in Bulgaria is significantly one of the cheapest on this list. A 24-hour transport pass will cost you about $2.5. If you plan to stay longer than 3 days, you can save money by opting for the 3-day pass. It cost just under $6.
Accommodation
In peak tourist periods, quality and highly rated hotels and apartments cost an average of $60/night. You can find decent hostels with bed spaces starting from $20 a night.
Prices are much cheaper during the off-peak months. If you plan your trip early, you can find deals at some amazing hotels for as low as $40 a night. With great reviews. The budget options range from $30. While hostels can start from $22.
Romania
Romania is in the southeast of Europe. It’s rich in history and has some of the most beautiful landscapes on the continent. Romania has many interesting regions. The capital, Bucharest, is popular for its stunning Belle Époque architecture. Transylvania, on the other hand, is known for its medieval heritage: castles, towns, and the legend of Count Dracula.
The best time to visit
The best time to visit Romania is during the shoulder season—late March to May, and September to October. The temperatures are pleasant, and the lines at attractions are manageable. Most importantly, prices are reasonable.
Some budget-friendly attractions and experiences
- Dracula’s Castle (Bran Castle), Transylvania
- The Palace of Parliament, Bucharest
- The Danube Delta
- The Wooden Churches of Maramures (UNESCO)
- The Peles Castle in Sinaia
Moving around
Transportation in Bucharest is very affordable. A 24-hour transport pass will cost you about $2. If you plan to stay longer than 3 days, you can save money by opting for the 3-day pass. It cost just under $5.
Accommodation
In peak tourist periods, quality and highly rated hotels and apartments cost an average of $50/night. You can find decent hostels with bed spaces starting from $15 a night.
Prices are much cheaper during the off-peak months. If you plan your trip early, you can find deals at some amazing hotels for as low as $40 a night. With great reviews. The budget options range from $30.
Albania
Albania is an emerging travel destination in Europe. It’s not as popular as its Balkan neighbours, Croatia and Montenegro. This is the reason it’s considered a gem. Albania has some of the best beaches in the region but still enjoys low prices and tourists. There isn’t much to do in the capital Tirana, to enjoy Albania, you have to spend time in the countryside.
The best time to visit
The best time to visit Albania is during the shoulder season. April to May, and September to October. unlike in core summer, the weather is mild and not extremely hot. The crowds are the beaches are fewer. The accommodation costs are very cheap. I spent my last Easter holiday in Albania and was shocked at how low the prices were.
Some budget-friendly attractions and experiences
- National History Museum, Tirana
- The Bunk’Art museum
- Berat (UNESCO)
- Valbona Valley National Park
- Theth National Park
- Other great outdoor activities: hiking, rafting, and paragliding.
Moving Around
The transportation system in Albania isn’t really good. That was the only negative aspect of my trip there. Regular taxis are still metered, usually with a base price of $3. And sadly, Uber and Lyft are not operating in Albania yet. If you do decide to take a bus, the daily pass would cost you about $4.
Accomodation
In peak tourist periods, quality and highly rated hotels and apartments cost an average of $70/night. You can find decent hostels with bed spaces starting from $15 a night.
Prices are much cheaper during the off-peak months. If you plan your trip early, you can find deals at some amazing hotels for as low as $40 a night. With great reviews and views of the sea. The budget options range from $15-25.
Latvia
Latvia is the first country on this list that’s located in the Baltic region. Like every other country on this list, it has a rich history, beautiful natural landscapes, and its own brand of architecture. Riga, its capital, is a must-see city. It’s got a medieval vibe and a thriving culture. However, there’s much more to this Baltic country than Riga: 300 miles of stunning beaches and pristine wilderness in the countryside.
The best time to visit
Winter months in Latvia are longer and colder. Thus, the shoulder months are much slimmer than the other countries on the list. The best time to visit Latvia is summer. The prices are still reasonable and the weather is a lot better. You should be aware that it rains often in Latvia, regardless of the season.
Some budget-friendly attractions and experiences
- The beautiful beaches in Jurmala
- Kemeri National Park
- Latvian Ethnographic Open Air Museum
- Kurzeme’s rugged coastline
- Other great outdoor activities: Bird watching, hiking, and winter sports.
Moving around
Not the cheapest on the list but certainly affordable. A 24-hour transport pass in Riga will cost you about $6. If you plan to stay 3 days, you can save a lot by opting for the 3-day pass. It cost just under $9.
Accommodation
In peak tourist periods, quality and highly rated hotels and apartments cost an average of $90/night. You can find decent hostels with bed spaces starting from $20 a night.
Prices are much cheaper during the off-peak months. If you plan your trip early, you can find deals at some amazing hotels for as low as $50 a night. With great reviews and views of the sea. The budget options range from $40. While hostels can start from $15.
Slovenia
Slovenia is a jewel in southern Europe, usually referred to as the most beautiful Balkan country. An underrated vacation spot. The country has some breathtaking views and scenery. Marvellous cathedrals and castles. Perhaps the most famous aspect is the Lake Bled, nestled in the Julian Alps. Slovenia is great for budget travellers who enjoy nature and outdoor activities.
The best time to visit
The best time to visit Slovenia is from late spring through mid-to-late autumn. The shoulder seasons, April-May and September-October, are the best times to avoid crowds. And enjoy the country in mild temperatures.
Some budget-friendly attractions and experiences
- Lake Bled
- Predjama Castle
- Postojna Cave
- The Slovenian Riviera
- UNESCO sites like The Skocjan Caves, the Idrija Mercury mining site, and the Ljubljana Marshes.
- Other great outdoor activities include biking, hiking, and water sports.
Croatia
This one needs no special introduction. Stunning coastline with some of the most breathtaking beaches in the world. Crystal-clear waters and landscapes fit for TV shows. Medieval towns and cities packed with so much history. Croatia should be on everyone’s bucket list.
The best time to visit
Croatia remains the most popular country in the Balkans. Thus, you can expect droves of tourists to flock there every summer. The best time to visit is from spring through early autumn. The shoulder seasons of March – April and September – October are the best times to avoid crowds and enjoy decent temperatures. You should also know some cities are more expensive than others. Dubrovnik is usually more expensive than other cities like Zadar.
Some budget-friendly attractions and experiences
- Hiking and climbing the Dinaric Alps and the Velebit Range.
- Kayaking, Kiteboarding, and Sailing the Dalmatia coast
- Rafting in the Cetina River
- Scuba diving in Kornati National Park, Pula, and Split.
- Relaxing at any of the magnificent beaches.
Montenegro
This tiny European country sits just south of Croatia. Montenegro shares so much in common with Croatia, but it is significantly cheaper. It is also rich in history and culture. Has amazing crystal clear waters and vibrant medieval towns. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike in the rugged mountains of Montenegro or enjoy water sports along the coastline.
The best time to visit
The cheapest months to visit Montenegro are January, February, March, April, May, November, and December. These months offer lower prices for accommodation and flights due to the low season. The temperatures are also mild with the occasional rainfall. July and August are peak seasons for tourism in Montenegro. Plus the country gets really hot in those core summer months.
Some budget-friendly attractions and experiences
- Exploring the old towns of Kotor and Budva
- Relaxing on the beautiful beaches of Becici, Petrovac, and the Montenegro Coast.
- Hiking in the Durmitor and Prokletije National Parks
- Visiting old churches, mosques, and museums.
Serbia
Another Balkan country that’s quickly growing in popularity. Serbia is rich in history and has some of the most friendly locals. The nightlife in Belgarde, its capital city, is as vibrant as the people. Serbia offers a lot of fun activities for every kind of tourist. From adrenaline outdoor activities to relaxing in nature.
The best time to visit
This depends on the kind of fun you plan to have. Winter months are great for skiing and snowboarding. A great alternative to the more expensive French and Swiss Alps. Summer is packed with tourists and high prices. Spring and Autumn have cool weather, fewer crowds, and much cheaper prices. Perfect for budget travellers.
Some budget-friendly attractions and experiences
- Canyoning in the Trešnjica Gorge
- skydiving and paragliding in Fruška Gora
- Skiing on Kopaonik
- Mountain biking in the Danube trails.
- Touring the impressive Studenica monastery
Poland
One of my favourites and top-rated destinations. Poland is an underrated vacation spot in Europe. The central European country is super budget-friendly and offers great value for money. Poland has a lot of wonderful cities to visit. I enjoyed Krakow and Wroclaw the most. Both cities had so much history and stunning architecture to admire. The costs are low almost all year round and the people are friendly to visitors.
The best time to visit
The cheapest months to visit Poland are generally the off-season months, which are typically November to March. During these months, you can save money from cheaper flights, accommodation, and activities, as well as fewer crowds. The main summer months, the Christmas and New Year holidays usually draw in a larger crowd.
Some budget-friendly attractions and experiences
- Hiking (summer) and skiing (winter) in the Tatra Mountains
- Sailing and kayaking on the Masurian Lakes
- Cycling and horseback riding in the countryside
- Birdwatching in the Biebrza National Park
- Wildlife watching in the Bialowieza National Park
Slovakia
Slovakia sits southeast of the Czech Republic and shares a lot of history with it. It’s a beautiful country with lots of history and beautiful natural landscapes. Slovakia features mountains, caves, medieval castles and towns, spas, and ski resorts. The capital city, Bratislava, is an excellent connection point to the Czech Republic, Austria and Hungary.
As one of the most affordable countries in the EU, Slovakia is perfect for anyone seeking an exciting budget vacation.
The best time to visit
The best time to visit Slovakia is during the shoulder season. May and June, and September and October. The weather is travel-friendly and lines at popular tourist attractions will be smaller.
The core summer months get quite busy and expensive. The winter months, though traditional, get extremely cold to travel and enjoy.
Some budget-friendly attractions and experiences
Slovakia is great for outdoor thrill seekers.
- Hrad Devín (Devín Castle)
- Slovak Paradise National Park
- Low Tatras National Park
- Malá Fatra National Park
- Veľká Fatra National Park
- Záhorie Protected Landscape Area
- Other outdoor activities: rafting, caving, mountain biking, paragliding, skiing.
