Places to travel in Europe for cheap might sound impossible, but it’s very possible if you know where to go. Europe is known for its amazing history, beautiful places, and exciting cities. Many people think traveling to Europe is too expensive, but that’s not always true.
There are many affordable places in Europe where you can visit cool attractions, try tasty food, and explore beautiful views without spending much money.
Why Choose Europe For Cheap Travel?
Choosing Europe for cheap travel is a smart idea because it offers a mix of beautiful destinations, rich culture, and affordable options. Many people think Europe is too expensive, but it can be just as budget-friendly as other places with the right planning.
From delicious street food to cheap transportation options, Europe offers travelers opportunities to enjoy an amazing vacation without spending too much. Whether you’re looking to explore historic cities or relax on a beautiful beach, Europe has something for everyone on a budget.
- Affordable Destinations: Many European cities offer low-cost accommodation, food, and activities.
- Cheap Transportation: Budget airlines and easy-to-use trains make traveling between cities affordable.
- Free Attractions: Lots of museums, parks, and landmarks are free to visit.
- Delicious Street Food: Enjoy tasty local meals without spending much.
- Diverse Culture: Experience different cultures, languages, and histories across countries.
- Great for Backpackers: Europe has a strong network of hostels and affordable travel services.
Top 10 Places to Travel in Europe For Cheap
Prague, Czech Republic
Prague, Czech Republic is one of the best places to visit in Europe if you’re looking to travel on a budget. Known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and affordable prices, Prague offers everything a traveler could want without breaking the bank.
Accommodations in Prague are very affordable, with plenty of hostels, budget hotels, and even unique Airbnb options available. When it comes to food, you can enjoy delicious local dishes like goulash and pastries for a fraction of the price you’d pay in other European cities.

Prague also offers many free or low-cost attractions, including beautiful parks, the famous Charles Bridge, and the historic Old Town Square. Thus, it’s a perfect destination for anyone wanting to experience Europe on a budget.
- Affordable Accommodation: Plenty of budget hotels and hostels to choose from.
- Cheap Food: Tasty local meals and snacks at low prices.
- Free Attractions: Explore beautiful parks, historic squares, and iconic bridges for free.
- Easy to Get Around: Prague’s public transportation is inexpensive and easy to use.
- Rich History and Culture: Visit museums and historical sites without high entrance fees.
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest, Hungary is the best city to visit if you’re looking for a fun and affordable vacation in Europe. This city has a lot to offer, from beautiful old buildings to fun places to relax, like its famous thermal baths.
The best part is, it’s not expensive, You can enjoy the city’s wonderful sights without spending too much money. You can also taste amazing Hungarian food like goulash and chimney cakes for a very reasonable price.

There are also many things to do in Budapest that don’t cost anything, like visiting free parks, walking along the river, or enjoying the views from the hills. It’s a perfect place for anyone who wants to have a great time on a budget.
- Inexpensive Thermal Baths: You can relax in the famous public baths without spending a lot.
- Beautiful Views: Enjoy free views of the city from the hills and bridges.
- Affordable Food: Try delicious Hungarian dishes for a low price.
- Cheap Transportation: The metro, trams, and buses are all very affordable to use.
- History and Culture: Visit museums and historical places without spending too much.
Krakow, Poland
Krakow, Poland is a wonderful city for travelers who want to experience history and culture on a budget. It’s a very old city with lots of cool places to see, like the Wawel Castle and the Main Market Square.
The best part is that many of these amazing places don’t cost a lot of money to visit. You can even take free walking tours around the city, where a guide shows you the important sights and tells you interesting stories about the city.

Krakow also has affordable food, and you can find delicious meals like pierogi (Polish dumplings) for a small price. If you want to see one of Europe’s most beautiful cities without spending a lot, Krakow is a great choice.
- Cheap Historical Sites: Visit castles and old buildings for little or no cost.
- Free Walking Tours: Learn about the city without spending money on a guide.
- Affordable Accommodations: There are many cheap hotels and hostels to choose from.
- Tasty, Cheap Food: Try traditional Polish dishes at affordable prices.
- Charming Streets: Explore the historic Old Town and other beautiful areas for free.
Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon, Portugal is a beautiful coastal city that offers a lot of amazing things to do without costing a lot of money. Known for its beautiful views of the ocean and old streets, Lisbon is perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy a European city on a budget

You can walk around the colorful neighborhoods, visit beautiful viewpoints, and explore historic buildings without breaking the bank. The best part is that Lisbon is known for its delicious and affordable food, such as pastel de nata (a tasty Portuguese pastry). Whether you’re looking to relax by the water or explore the city’s culture, Lisbon is a great choice for cheap travel.
- Inexpensive Attractions: Explore the city’s historic sites and viewpoints without spending too much.
- Cheap Local Food: Enjoy delicious dishes like pastel de nata for a small price.
- Beautiful Coastal Views: Walk along the coast and see the ocean for free.
- Affordable Public Transport: The trams and buses are easy to use and cheap.
- Charming Streets: Stroll through colorful neighborhoods that don’t cost a thing.
Athens, Greece
Athens, Greece is a fantastic place for travelers who want to visit ancient ruins and learn about history, all while staying on a budget. Athens is home to some of the most famous historical sites in the world, like the Acropolis and Parthenon. Luckily, many of these ancient ruins are affordable to visit, and some even have free entrance days.

If you love street food, Athens has plenty of tasty and inexpensive options, like souvlaki (grilled meat on a skewer) and gyros (meat wrapped in pita bread). Plus, getting around Athens is easy with its low-cost public transportation system.
- Affordable Ancient Ruins: Visit the famous Acropolis and other historical sites for a low cost.
- Cheap Street Food: Taste delicious Greek food like souvlaki and gyros at budget-friendly prices.
- Low-Cost Transportation: Take the metro or bus to get around the city easily.
- Free Attractions: Some historical sites and museums offer free entrance on certain days.
- Rich History: Learn about the ancient history of Greece while exploring the city for a little money.
Sofia, Bulgaria
Sofia, Bulgaria is one of the most affordable capitals in Europe, making it the best destination for budget travelers. With its mix of history, beautiful parks, and modern life, Sofia offers plenty to see and do without spending too much.

You can explore the city’s historic churches, walk through beautiful green spaces, and visit famous sites like Alexander Nevsky Cathedral for little or no cost. Sofia also offers affordable accommodations, from hostels to budget hotels, and tasty local food, such as banitsa (a savory pastry). The best part is, that Sofia offers free walking tours, which is a great way to learn about the city without spending money.
- Cheap Accommodation: Stay in budget-friendly hostels and hotels.
- Free Walking Tours: Discover the city’s history and culture for free.
- Low-Cost Attractions: Visit churches, parks, and monuments without paying much.
- Affordable Food: Try traditional Bulgarian dishes for a great price.
- Relaxing Green Spaces: Explore parks and gardens without any cost.
Valencia, Spain
Valencia, Spain is a wonderful alternative to the more expensive cities like Barcelona, offering a lot to enjoy without the high prices. Valencia is famous for its beautiful beaches, modern architecture, and delicious food, all at a fraction of the cost of other Spanish cities.

You can visit the beautiful City of Arts and Sciences or relax on its free sandy beaches. The food in Valencia is also affordable, and you can try local dishes like paella, a famous Spanish rice dish. Whether you love exploring historic buildings or enjoying the Mediterranean coast, Valencia has something for everyone at the best price.
- Less Touristy: Enjoy the city without the high prices of Barcelona or Madrid.
- Free Beaches: Relax on the beautiful sandy beaches for free.
- Affordable Food: Enjoy delicious dishes like paella at budget-friendly prices.
- Inexpensive Attractions: Visit amazing museums and modern sites for low costs.
- Best Weather: Valencia has sunny days all year long, making it a perfect place to explore.
Belgrade, Serbia
Belgrade, Serbia is an exciting city to visit, especially if you’re traveling on a budget. This city is full of energy and has so much to offer. From its fun nightlife with music and dancing to its historic sites, Belgrade is perfect for anyone who loves to explore.
You can visit the old Kalemegdan Fortress, take a walk by the Danube River, or relax in a cozy café, and it won’t cost you much. The best part about Belgrade is that the food is cheap, and you can get a filling meal without spending a lot.
Public transportation is also very affordable, making it easy to get around the city. Whether you’re looking for history, culture, or just a good time, Belgrade is the best city for budget travel. You can also read this article about Top European cities for solo travel.
- Fun Nightlife: Enjoy the city’s clubs and bars without spending a lot of money.
- Affordable Food: Try delicious Serbian dishes like ćevapi and burek for a low price.
- Easy Transportation: Public buses and trams are cheap and easy to use.
- Historic Sights: Visit old fortresses, parks, and landmarks without paying much.
- Relaxing Walks: Take a walk along the river or explore the parks for free.
Tallinn, Estonia
Tallinn, Estonia is a beautiful city with an old-world charm, and it’s perfect for anyone who loves history and exploring new places without spending a lot of money. The city has beautiful architecture with cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and ancient castles.

The best part is, that many of the best places to visit in Tallinn, like the Old Town, are completely free to explore. You can walk around the city, see historic landmarks, and enjoy beautiful views without paying a penny.
Tallinn also has affordable accommodations and great food that won’t cost too much. It’s a perfect place to visit if you want to see a unique, fairy-tale city without breaking your budget.
- Free Historical Sites: Walk through the medieval Old Town and see amazing landmarks for free.
- Cheap Accommodation: Stay in affordable hostels and hotels.
- Budget-Friendly Food: Enjoy Estonian dishes at low prices.
- Beautiful Views: Enjoy beautiful views of the city from free viewpoints.
- Rich Culture: Learn about Tallinn’s history by exploring the city on your own, without paying for tours.
Bratislava, Slovakia
Bratislava, Slovakia is the best place to visit if you’re looking for an affordable European destination. It’s a beautiful city, often compared to Vienna, but with much lower prices. You can visit historic places like Bratislava Castle, enjoy the lovely old town, and walk along the Danube River without spending too much money.

The city is also perfect for day trips to nearby places like small towns or natural parks, which are both cheap and fun. The food in Bratislava is also affordable, and you can try local dishes like bratislavské rožky (a sweet pastry) without spending a lot.
Whether you want to explore the city’s history or relax by the river, Bratislava is a budget-friendly place to enjoy European culture. You can read this article about the Best place to travel in Europe.
- Affordable Attractions: Visit historical places and landmarks without paying much.
- Budget Day Trips: Take cheap day trips to nearby towns and parks.
- Cheap Food: Try traditional Slovak dishes like bratislavské rožky for a low price.
- Easy to Explore: The city is small and walkable, so you can see a lot without using expensive transportation.
- Relaxing River Views: Enjoy the beautiful views of the Danube River for free.
Tips For Travelling To Europe For Cheap
Travel Off-Season: The best time to visit Europe on a budget is during the off-season (fall or spring). Flights and accommodation are cheaper, and there are fewer tourists, which means fewer crowded attractions.
Use Budget Airlines: Europe has many low-cost airlines like Ryanair, EasyJet, and Wizz Air, which offer cheap flights between cities. Book your tickets early to get the best deals.
Stay in Hostels or Budget Hotels: Hostels are a great option for budget travelers, and many offer private rooms as well. You can also find affordable hotels and guesthouses, especially in smaller towns.
Travel by Train or Bus: Instead of flying, consider taking buses or trains, which can be much cheaper. Companies like FlixBus and Eurail offer budget-friendly options for traveling around Europe.
Eat Like a Local: Avoid touristy restaurants, as they tend to be expensive. Instead, try local cafés, street food, or small family-owned restaurants for delicious and affordable meals.
Free Attractions and Walking Tours: Many European cities have free attractions like parks, museums, or historical sites. Also, free walking tours are a great way to explore the city and learn about its history without spending money.
Book in Advance: Whether it’s flights, accommodation, or train tickets, booking in advance can save you a lot of money. Look for deals and discounts online before you travel.
Stay in Less Popular Cities: Major tourist destinations like Paris, London, and Rome can be expensive. Consider visiting less popular cities or towns that still offer a lot to see and do but at a lower cost, such as Krakow (Poland), Valencia (Spain), or Belgrade (Serbia).
Use Public Transportation: Most European cities have excellent and affordable public transportation systems. Instead of taking taxis or renting a car, use buses, trams, or metro systems to get around.
Take Advantage of Free Events: Many cities in Europe offer free festivals, concerts, or cultural events, especially during the summer. Check the local event calendar for free entertainment options during your visit.
Conclusion: Places To Travel in Europe for Cheap
Places to travel in Europe for cheap can give you a fun and exciting trip without spending too much money. You can visit beautiful cities, try tasty food, and see amazing sights without worrying about a big budget. By choosing cheaper places to visit, using buses or trains, and staying in affordable hotels, you can have a great time in Europe without spending a lot.
If you want more tips on where to go and how to save money while traveling, visit my blog at discovertourplaces.com.
Frequently Asked Question
How can I find cheap flights to Europe?
Use flight comparison websites like Skyscanner or Google Flights. Booking in advance and being flexible with your travel dates can also help you find cheaper flights.
How can I avoid tourist traps while traveling in Europe on a budget?
To avoid tourist traps, research the places you’re visiting, ask locals for recommendations, and steer clear of eating or shopping near famous landmarks, where prices are usually higher.
What is the best time of year to travel to Europe on a budget?
The best time to travel on a budget is during the off-season, which is usually in the fall (September to November) or spring (March to May).
Are there any specific countries in Europe that offer discounts for students or young travelers?
Yes, countries like Germany, France, and Spain offer discounts for students and young travelers. You can use the International Student Identity Card (ISIC) for discounts on transportation, attractions, and food.
What are some budget-friendly activities for families traveling in Europe?
Many cities offer free walking tours, parks, museums with free entry days, and local festivals. Exploring nature trails, visiting local markets, and taking free public tours can also be affordable activities.