Table of Contents
Introduction
There are tons of affordable European city breaks waiting for you. What comes to mind when people think of European getaways. They often imagine luxurious trips that come with a big price tag. But guess what? Europe can be affordable for budget travelers as well?
Are you a student, a young professional or someone who loves to travel on a budget? Europe has an abundance of cultural, historical, and natural marvels. Let’s explore these affordable gems!
Why Choose Affordable European City Breaks?
Traveling on a budget is smart. You can see more places. You can experience new cultures while still spending less. It is fun to find great deals!
According to Eurostat, the average daily expenditure for EU tourists was €94 in 2023 But guess what? You can do it for less! Our picks let you enjoy Europe for around €50-€70 per day.
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is a budget traveler’s dream. It’s beautiful and cheap. Budapest offers stunning architecture and a rich history. Explore the Buda Castle, stroll along the Danube River, and relax in the famous thermal baths. The Széchenyi Thermal Bath is a must-visit. For budget accommodation, try the Maverick City Lodge. Get a great view of the city from the Fisherman’s Bastion.
Budget Tips:
• Visit during spring or fall for lower prices
• Local tip: Use the Budapest Card for discounts.
• Stay in District VII for cheap eats
• Cheap eats: Try lángos at Central Market Hall.
Sample Budget:
• Hostel bed: €10-15 per night
• Local meal: €5-8
• 24-hour travel card: €5
Expert Insights:
Budapest offers affordable luxury. Enjoy world-class experiences without overspending. – Local expert Maria Kovacs says, Don’t miss our ‘ruin bars. They are unique to Budapest and super affordable!
Lisbon, Portugal: Sun, Sea, and Savings
Lisbon gives you beaches and culture at low prices. Lisbon is a vibrant city with colorful streets and delicious food. Visit the historic Belém Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery. Tram 28 offers a scenic and cheap city tour. Consider staying at the Home Lisbon Hostel for a comfortable and affordable experience. Check out the Time Out Market to taste local foods
Budget Tips:
• Use the Lisboa Card for free transport and entry to 35+ attractions
• Stay in the Bairro Alto area for nightlife
• Enjoy free museum entry on Sundays
• Local tip: Walk around Alfama for free Fado music.
• Cheap eats: Enjoy pastéis de nata at Manteigaria.
Sample Budget:
• Hostel dorm: €15-20 per night
• Set lunch menu: €7-10
• Lisboa Card (48 hours): €34
Expert Insights:
Lisbon is perfect for budget travelers. You get a lot for your money. – Local guide Carlos Ferreira advises, “Try the ‘prego’ sandwich. It’s cheap, delicious, and very Portuguese! Perfect time to go to Lisbon is in March to May or September to October
Prague, Czech Republic: Fairytale Views on a Budget
Prague looks expensive but isn’t. It’s perfect for affordable European city breaks. Prague is famous for its medieval charm and beautiful architecture. Explore the Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, and Old Town Square. The city’s public transportation system is both efficient and affordable. The Czech Inn Hostel is a great budget stay.
Budget Tips:
• Local tip: Take a free walking tour.
• Visit Prague Castle after 4 PM for reduced entry
• Use public transport – get a 3-day pass
• Cheap eats: Try trdelník from street vendors.
• Drink Czech beer – it’s cheaper than water!
Sample Budget:
• Budget hotel: €30-40 per night
• Traditional meal: €6-10
• 3-day transport pass: €12
Expert Insights:
Prague offers history and beauty at a low cost. – Czech travel expert Jana Novak says, “For a cheap meal, try our traditional ‘smažený sýr’ (fried cheese). It’s filling and low cost! April to May or September to October is the best months to visit Prague
Krakow, Poland: Medieval Charm on a Budget
Krakow is history without the high costs. Krakow has both history and culture. I would recommend visiting Wawel Castle. Also visit the Main Market Square and the Jewish Quarter when visiting Krakow. Learn about WWII history at the Schindler’s Factory. Mosquito Hostel offers affordable lodging.
Budget Tips:
• Local tip: Visit museums on free entry days.
• Walk or bike around the compact old town
• Cheap eats: Enjoy pierogi at local milk bars.
• Get the Krakow Card for free transport and entry to many attractions
Sample Budget:
• Budget hotel room: €25-35 per night
• Meal at a milk bar: €3-5
• Krakow Card (2-day): €35
Expert Insights:
Krakow is a budget city with much to offer. – According to Travel blogger Tom Smith, “Krakow’s free walking tours are amazing. They are a great way to see the city and learn its history.” Ideal visit time: June to August for festivals and September for fewer crowds
Sofia, Bulgaria: Affordable and Off the Beaten Path
Sofia offers a mix of history and natural beauty. Sofia is often overlooked. That makes it cheap and exciting. Explore the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral(free entry), Vitosha Boulevard and the Boyana Church. There is also the Central Mineral Baths, a very beautiful architecture to explore. Hostel Mostel is an excellent option for affordable accommodations.
Budget Tips:
• Local tip: Use public transportation for cheap travel.
• Cheap eats: Enjoy banitsa at local bakeries.
• Eat at local bakeries for cheap meals
• Visit the many free museums
• Take free walking tours
Sample Budget:
• Hostel bed: €8-12 per night
• Meal at a local restaurant: €5-8
• City transport card (1 day): €4
Expert Insights:
Sofia is an affordable city with rich history and nature. Sofia-based travel writer Elena Ivanova recommends, “Try our mineral water springs. They’re free and good for your health!”
Visiting Sofia in the spring months of April to May, and fall months of September to October are perfect.
Tallinn, Estonia: Medieval Meets Modern on a Budget
Tallinn is a well-preserved medieval old town with vibrant cultural scene. Tallinn is medieval Meets Modern on a Budget. Tallinn offers a mix of old and new at affordable prices. Experience the Old Town. Walk on its cobblestone streets. Be sure to stop by Toompea Castle to admire its architecture. Visit the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. Admire its stunning design, a true sight to behold. Don’t miss the Kadriorg Palace and its beautiful gardens. Stay at the Old Town Hostel Alur for an affordable lodging option.
Budget Tips:
• Local tip: Enjoy free walking tours of the old town.
• Cheap eats: Try local pastries at Maiasmokk Café.
• Budget accommodation: Kalamaja district is better
• Use the Tallinn Card for free entry to 40+ attractions and public transportation.
• Enjoy free Wi-Fi almost everywhere in the city
Sample Budget:
• Budget hotel: €30-40 per night
• Lunch at a cafe: €7-10
• Tallinn Card (24 hours): €26
Expert Insights:
Tallinn is a hidden gem with budget attractions, rich history, and a lively cultural scene. Estonian blogger Liis Tamm recommends, “Try our digital nomad visas if you want to stay longer. Estonia is a tech city!”
Best time to visit Tallinn is in June to August for festivals, May or September for fewer crowds
Bucharest, Romania: Affordable Elegance
Bucharest, Romania’s capital is a city of contrasts. It is a mix of modern and historical architecture. Bucharest mixes grand buildings with budget prices. Explore the Palace of Parliament. It is one of the largest administrative buildings in the world. Visit the Village Museum, an open-air museum showcasing traditional Romanian village life. Stay at Little Bucharest Old Town Hostel for an affordable stay.
Budget Tips:
• Use the efficient and cheap metro system
• Eat at “automat” cafeterias for low-cost meals
• Cheap eats: Enjoy traditional Romanian dishes at Caru’ cu Bere or Lacrimi și Sfinți.
• Insider tip: Many museums offer free entry on the first Saturday of each month.
• Free activities: Walk through Herăstrău Park, visit the Arcul de Triumf, and explore the Old Town.
Sample Budget:
• Hostel dorm: €10-15 per night
• Meal at an “automat”: €4-6
• 1-day metro pass: €3
Expert Insights:
Bucharest offers a fascinating mix of history and modernity at an affordable price. Romanian travel expert Cristian Popescu advises, “Don’t miss our ‘covrigi’ (pretzels). They’re cheap, tasty, and available everywhere!”
Spring and fall times are the best period to visit. That is the period April to May or in September to October
Belgrade, Serbia: Vibrant Nightlife on a Budget
Belgrade the capital of Serbia. Belgrade offers great nightlife without the high prices. It is also known for its lively nightlife, historical sites, and rich culture. Discover the Belgrade Fortress and Kalemegdan Park. Visit the Nikola Tesla Museum, and stroll down Knez Mihailova Street. Stay at Hedonist Hostel for an affordable and comfortable stay.
Budget Tips:
• Belgrade Fortress: Free entry with great views
• Enjoy free entry to many museums on Wednesdays
• Local tip: Use the Belgrade Pass for discounts on attractions and public transportation.
• Use the BusPlus card for cheaper public transport
• Cheap eats: Try ćevapi at local eateries or enjoy a meal at Zavičaj.
• Insider tip: Visit Ada Ciganlija, a river island with beaches and recreational facilities.
Sample Budget:
• Hostel bed: €10-15 per night
• Meal at a local restaurant: €5-8
• BusPlus card (1 day): €3
Expert Insights:
Belgrade offers a unique blend of cultures and history at an affordable price. It also offers a burstling nightlife. Local nightlife expert Marko Jović says, “Check out our ‘splavovi’ (floating clubs). They’re unique to Belgrade and often have no entry fee!”
May to September is the ideal time to visit and enjoy outdoor activities and festivals
Santorini, Greece: Island Dreams on a Budget
Santorini is an iconic island in Greece. It is better known for its stunning sunsets, white-washed buildings, and crystal-clear waters. Santorini may be a bit pricey. Smart and savvy travelers can still enjoy it on a budget with our budget. Discover the breadthtaking and charming villages of Oia and Fira. Visit the ancient ruins of Akrotiri, and relax on the unique black sand beaches. Stay at Caveland Hostel for an affordable yet authentic experience.
Budget Tips:
• Stay in Perissa or Kamari for cheaper hotels
• Cheap eats: Enjoy gyros and souvlaki from local tavernas or street vendors.
• Insider tip: Take the local bus for affordable transportation around the island.
• Rent a bike or ATV to explore the island
• Visit the Red Beach, and explore the picturesque streets of Pyrgos village.
• Enjoy free public beaches instead of costly beach clubs
Sample Budget:
• Budget hotel (not in Oia): €40-60 per night
• Gyros meal: €3-5
• Local bus ticket: €1.80-2.50 per ride
Expert Insights:
Santorini offers breathtaking views and unique experiences. With a bit of planning, you can enjoy this paradise on a budget. Local guide Eleni Papadopoulos says, “Try our local wineries. Many offer affordable tastings with amazing views!”
Late spring and early fall is the best time to visit.
Riga, Latvia: Baltic Beauty on a Budget
Riga is a captivating city that combines historic and modern architectural styles. Riga offers Art Nouveau architecture and affordable prices. Additionally, the Old Town is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is a must-see with its cobblestone streets and medieval buildings. Riga Central Market, housed in old Zeppelin hangars is open to explore. Enjoy the stunning architecture of the Art Nouveau district. Cinnamon Sally Backpackers Hostel is a great budget place stay.
Budget Tips:
• Stay in the Moscow District for cheaper hotels
• Buy a Riga Pass for free transport and attractions
• Enjoy free entry to many museums on the last Sunday of each month
• Local tip: Use the Riga Card for discounts on attractions and public transportation.
• Cheap eats: Try Latvian stew at Lido restaurants or enjoy a meal at Folkklubs Ala Pagrabs.
Sample Budget:
• Budget hotel: €25-35 per night
• Meal at a local cafeteria: €5-8
• Riga Pass (24 hours): €25
Expert Insights:
Riga offers a rich cultural experience on a budget. Its beautiful architecture and vibrant markets are a testimony to that. Local guide Andris Berzins suggests, “Try our black balsam liquor. It’s cheap and part of Riga’s history!”
The best time to visit is during the warm weather months of June to August. September records very fewer tourists.
Final Tips for Affordable European City Breaks
1. Travel off-season for the best deals.
2. Use budget airlines and book early.
3. Stay in hostels or use Airbnb.
4. Cook some meals yourself.
5. Walk when possible to save on transport.
6. Look for free walking tours in each city.
7. Get city tourist cards for discounts.
8. Use apps like TooGoodToGo to find cheap meals.
Remember, affordable European city breaks are all about smart choices. With these tips, you can see amazing places without spending too much.
Conclusion
Affordable European city breaks are doable. From Budapest’s baths to Athens, Europe has so much to offer budget travelers. Use our tips to save money and have a great time. Which city will you visit first? Share your own affordable European city break experiences in the comments. Let’s help each other travel more for less!