World Of Wanderlust

Traveling on a budget to Europe? Here are some cities to consider!

Europe is the world’s top destination, with 288 million travelers visiting each year. It has a lot to offer, from stunning natural landscapes to incredible manmade wonders. The great news is that Europe can be both expensive and budget-friendly. So, if you’re planning a budget trip, Europe should definitely be on your list!

If you want to travel on a budget, there are plenty of beautiful cities in Europe that won’t break the bank. We’ve put together a list of amazing places that are perfect for a budget-friendly European adventure. Check them out for your travel list!

1. Albania
Albania is an excellent destination for both breathtaking nature and rich history. This Balkan country is a hidden gem with sandy coastlines and ancient ruins. You can enjoy sunny seaside views, relaxed cities, and tours of historical sites without spending a fortune.

Albania is incredibly affordable. A meal of seafood costs around €8, and visiting ancient sites is often free. You can explore the Albanian Riviera with its pristine beaches and ancient Greek ruins without hefty costs.

Average daily spend: €45
Currency: Albanian lekë (LEK) – 1 lekë = €0.01
Food: Starting at LEK 583 (€5)
Accommodation: Hostels in Tirana from LEK 1170 (€10)
Transportation: Walking is easy in cities; buses to other regions start at LEK 600 (€5).

2. Bosnia and Herzegovina
This Balkan country is a cultural and historical melting pot located between Croatia and Serbia. You can enjoy beautiful natural landscapes, historic sites, and diverse cultures. Spend a few days in Sarajevo, the capital, and then explore cities like Mostar.

Despite its beauty, Bosnia and Herzegovina is very affordable. Daily costs average around BAM 98 (€50), including accommodation. Many attractions, like the Sarajevo Museum, are free or cheap.

Average daily spend: €50
Currency: Bosnian Convertible Marks (BAM) – 1 BAM = €0.51
Food: Starting at BAM 8 (€4)
Accommodation: Hostels in big cities from BAM 20 (€10)
Transportation: Buses are affordable based on distance.

3. Bucharest, Romania
Bucharest, known as ‘The Little Paris,’ is a blend of bustling city life and elegant architecture. It offers renaissance buildings, serene parks, and a charming old town. It’s also known for fast internet, attracting many digital nomads.

Bucharest is one of Europe’s most affordable destinations, with daily expenses around €34. Walking tours are a highlight, and many attractions are free or very cheap.

Average daily spend: €34
Currency: Romanian Leu (LEI) – 1 LEI = €0.20
Food: Starting at LEI 35 (€7)
Accommodation: Hostels from LEI 20 (€10)
Transportation: Buses and trams start at LEI 3 (€0.60).

4. Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is a surprisingly affordable city with its stunning castles, cathedrals, and the beautiful Danube River. You can find cheap places to visit, and food and accommodations are also budget-friendly.

Spend your time visiting iconic landmarks like the Heroes Square or the Great Market Hall. Don’t miss grabbing street foods like chimney cakes, which cost less than a euro.

Average daily spend: €55
Currency: Hungarian forint (HUF) – 1 HUF = €0.002
Food: Street foods start at less than €1; standard restaurants start at HUF 2,500 (€5.90)
Accommodation: Hostels from €9
Transportation: Bus rides start at HUF 450 (€1.06).

5. Kotor, Montenegro
Kotor offers a tropical beach experience without costing a fortune. This city is located in a lush bay with blue waters and stunning hills, reminiscent of locales in Thailand or the Philippines.

Kotor is very budget-friendly, with a daily budget around €50. Enjoy the beaches, stroll through the Old Town, or visit UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Average daily spend: €50
Currency: Euro
Food: Budget restaurants from €5; fast food from €4
Accommodation: Hostels from €10
Transportation: Walking is easy; tourist buses cost €20.

6. Krakow, Poland
Krakow is the place for affordable food tours and historical exploration. Famous for its medieval buildings and rich history, this city offers plenty of free attractions like churches and Salt Mines.

Street food is delightful and cheap. Try local favorites like obwarzanki and zapiekanki.

Average daily spend: €50
Currency: Polish złoty – 1 złoty = €0.22
Food: Street food less than zł 4.83 (€1); standard restaurants from zł 9.50 (€2)
Accommodation: Hostels from zł 14 (€7)
Transportation: Walking is recommended; trams to outer areas cost zł 7 (€2) for a round trip.

7. Riga, Latvia
Riga feels like a fairy-tale city with its art nouveau buildings and cultural richness. The capital of Latvia offers many free tourist spots and affordable food and transportation.

Average daily spend: €40
Currency: Euro (€)
Food: Standard restaurants from €5
Accommodation: Hostels from €7
Transportation: Buses, trams, and metro start at €1.50.

8. Slovakia
Slovakia is an underrated gem with lush mountains, rivers, and picturesque towns. Its rich history is reflected in landmarks like Orava Castle. Cities like Bratislava and Zilina offer a mix of history and culture.

Average daily spend: €40
Currency: Euro (€)
Food: Standard restaurants from €6.00
Accommodation: Hostels from €7
Transportation: Buses start at €4.50 for a one-day ride.

9. Sofia, Bulgaria
Sofia, the ‘Pearl of Danube,’ is known for its Roman-Celtic architecture and medieval landmarks. It’s a diverse city with affordable food, destinations, and accommodations. Walking around the city can save on transportation, and many landmark entrances are free.

Average daily spend: €47
Currency: Bulgarian leva (BGN) – 1 BGN = €0.51
Food: Street food from BGN 2 (€1); standard restaurants from BGN 10 (€5)
Accommodation: Hostels from BGN 14 (€7)
Transportation: Metro starts at BGN 1.60 (€0.80); bus tickets from BGN 1.60 (€0.80).

10. Zagreb, Croatia
Zagreb combines beautiful cityscapes, great food, and fascinating history without high costs. Explore historical landmarks, from churches to castles, mostly free of charge.

Average daily spend: €45
Currency: Croatian Kuna (kn) – 1 kn = €0.13
Food: Street food from kn 7 (€1); standard restaurants from kn 35 (€5)
Accommodation: Hostels from kn 70 (€10)
Transportation: Walking is easy.

These cities offer fantastic experiences without stretching your budget. It’s highly recommended to add them to your travel list!

Traveling with friends can also help you save money and share memorable experiences. You can meet like-minded travelers, make new friends, and enjoy your European adventure even more!