22 Cheapest Cities in Europe to travel

Updated: 2 October, 2024

These are the most affordable cities in Europe, with details on what to see, along with flight, hotel, food, and drink prices.

If you're looking to have affordable vacations in Europe, you've come to the right place.

In this article, I'll share information about Europe's most economical cities, where cheap hotel rooms range from 15 to 54 euros in central areas if you travel in spring or fall.

Moreover, these are all cities where you can dine for little money, with inexpensive restaurants starting from 6 euros and a pint of beer from 1.80 euros.

The order of the places is simply alphabetical by the name of the city, and I've highlighted three of them as TOP, which are the most affordable, and all of them are marked on the map at the end of the article.

22 Affordable European Cities

1. Belgrade, Serbia

Belgrade might not have the obvious beauty of Prague; however, it has a special charm, making it, in my opinion, highly underrated.

The city boasts historical sites such as the Belgrade Fortress, the most emblematic monument that served as a strategic point for the Romans, Byzantines, Ottomans, and later, the Serbs and Austrians.

One of the best things to do in Belgrade is to visit Skadarlija, formerly known as the "Gypsy Quarter."

Today, it's a bohemian neighborhood reminiscent of Montmartre in Paris, with beautiful cobbled streets filled with cafes and restaurants.

Belgrade has many interesting corners, excellent cuisine, good wine, and a vibrant nightlife.

Prices

• Flights: There are cheap flights to Belgrade from 42 euros round trip with Wizz Air from London. There are also direct flights from other European cities with several low-cost airlines. Additionally, there are direct flights from Chicago and New York.

• Accommodation starting from: 3 stars 32 euros and 4 stars 48 euros (check availability and prices in the link)
• Restaurants
  • Meal in an inexpensive restaurant: 8.50 euros
  • Meal at a mid-range restaurant: 19.20 euros
  • Pint of beer: 2.20 euros
  • Cappuccino: 2 euros

To find cheap flights in Europe I recommend this searcher, where I've found the deals mentioned throughout the article.

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2. Bratislava, Slovakia

The historic center of Batislava is one of the most beautiful in Eastern Europe, a budget-friendly European destination that you shouldn't miss.

Some of its most stunning sites include the 9th-century castle, the UFO Bridge, which is undoubtedly the city's most iconic postcard, and St. Martin's Cathedral.

Simply strolling through Bratislava's picturesque old town is a delight. I recommend joining this free tour to learn about its fabulous history.

While Bratislava's interesting area is relatively small compared to other European cities, it's common to combine a visit with nearby cities like Vienna or Budapest.

Prices

• Flights: Bratislava has direct flights from several European and Middle Eastern cities. The main low cost airline that serves Bratislava is Ryanair, with flights from 40 euros from London.

• Accommodation starting from: 3 stars 37 euros and 4 stars 67 euros
• Restaurants
  • Meal in an inexpensive restaurant: 9 euros
  • Meal at a mid-range restaurant: 22.50 euros
  • Pint of beer: 2.40 euros
  • Cappuccino: 2.40 euros

3. Bucharest, Romania

Bucharest is one of the most fascinating European cheap cities that at the beginning of the 20th century earned the name "Little Paris" for its glorious tree-lined boulevards and buildings of the Belle Époque.

In the city, you’ll get to see amazing landmarks like the Parliament, the Arch of Triumph, and the Romanian Athenaeum, along with many other attractions you can explore with this free tour.

If you decide to visit Bucharest, don't miss taking a tour of the castles in Transylvania, including Bran Castle, a fascinating site that inspired the legend of Count Dracula.

Prices

• FlightsAnother advantage of traveling to Romania is the availability of several low-cost airlines with direct flights from the UK, Germany, Italy, and other European countries, primarily with Ryanair, Wizz Air, and Tarom, a Romanian airline. Flights from London start at 47 euros.

• Accommodation starting from: 3 stars 33 euros and 4 stars 54 euros
• Restaurants
  • Meal in an inexpensive restaurant: 10 euros
  • Meal at a mid-range restaurant: 22.30 euros
  • Pint of beer: 2.20 euros
  • Cappuccino: 2.60 euros

4. Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is one of the most beautiful and budget-friendly destinations in Europe, though calling the city beautiful is an understatement.

The capital of Hungary is a monumental and historic city with stunning buildings that will leave you in awe. Plus, you'll find plenty of things to do in Budapest.

One of the most photographed spots in the city is Fisherman's Bastion, next to the Danube, which served as the defense of Buda Castle.

If you've seen pictures of Budapest, you've surely come across the iconic Széchenyi Baths, the largest thermal baths in Europe.

In this city, it's not all about history and culture; you can also explore its 'ruin pubs', meaning bars located in buildings that were left in ruins due to bombings or abandonment.

This is a completely safe and interesting experience to enjoy some drinks.

If you want to have an affordable trip to Budapest, I recommend this free city tour and an inexpensive evening cruise on the Danube.

Prices

• Flights: Budapest is another destination on the list with plenty of direct flight options from London, Paris, Berlin, and other cities with Ryanair and WizzAir. Prices start at 57 euros round trip.

• Accommodation starting from: 3 stars 42 euros and 4 stars 48 euros
• Restaurants
  • Meal in an inexpensive restaurant: 10.30 euros
  • Meal at a mid-range restaurant: 25.90 euros
  • Pint of beer: 2.10 euros
  • Cappuccino: 2 euros

5. Krakow, Poland

Poland is generally budget-friendly, and Krakow is a charming city with a good mix of culture, history, and plenty of magnetism.

Its Old Town was once a significant trading hub with its impressive market square, which is the largest in Europe.

The historic center was declared World Heritage Site in 1978where you'll find synagogues, the Kings' Pantheon, remnants of the wall, and the Gothic cathedral.

Moreover, a visit to Krakow is incomplete without a guided tour of Auschwitz, where you'll learn about the horror of these concentration camps, or a tour to Auschwitz and the Wieliczka Salt Mines, which are quite unique.

Keep in mind that Auschwitz concentration camps cannot be visited independently; you need to go with a guide.

Prices

• Flights: Another advantage of this destination is that you'll find affordable flights to Krakow directly from most European cities, some from the Middle East, and from New York and Chicago. Low-cost flights from Europe start at 52 euros with Ryanair and Wizz Air..

• Accommodation starting from: 3 stars 37 euros and 4 stars 68 euros
• Restaurants
  • Meal in an inexpensive restaurant: 9 euros
  • Meal at a mid-range restaurant: 17.90 euros
  • Pint of beer: 3.10 euros
  • Cappuccino: 2.80 euros

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6. Istanbul, Türkiye

During 2022, Türkiye experienced significant inflation, and prices have surged; nevertheless, it remains one of the cheapest cities in Europe.

Additionally, being situated on two continents, Europe and Asia, Istanbul's cultural blend results in a fascinating city filled with iconic landmarks like Hagia Sophia.

Another must-see in the Turkish capital is admiring the city at night from a boat during a Bosphorus dinner cruise, like this affordable one from the link.

This city is meant to be explored through its colorful neighborhoods, enjoying its mosques, and navigating its bazaars, which you can do by joining this free tour.

Prices

• Flights: Istanbul has one of the largest airports in Europe, with flights from major European cities and capitals, as well as from Asia, Africa, and America with Turkish Airlines. Additionally, several low-cost airlines operate, such as Wizz Air and Pegasus, the Turkish low-cost airline, with prices starting from 74 euros from London.

• Accommodation starting from: 3 stars 35 euros and 4 stars 35 euros
• Restaurants
  • Meal in an inexpensive restaurant: 6.10 euros
  • Meal at a mid-range restaurant: 13.60 euros
  • Pint of beer: 2.70 euros
  • Cappuccino: 2 euros

⭐ You may also be interested in this article about Tips for traveling to Türkiye, covering safety, money, shopping, and more.

7. Karpathos, Greece

Karpathos is currently the cheapest Greek island, and even though I discuss places to visit in spring or autumn in this article, this island is an excellent choice for an affordable summer vacation.

This gem in the Aegean has preserved its own traditions and dialect, different from other places in Greece.

It's one of the affordable beach destinations in Europe that has it all – crystal-clear waters inviting you for a swim, charming mountain villages, and mouthwatering cuisine.

Another advantage of visiting Karpathos is that you can take the opportunity to see other nearby islands, including Crete, which is a short distance away, because the ferries are inexpensive.

In this website you can check all the ferries in Greece with their schedules, prices, and make reservations right there.

Prices

• Flights: Karpathos has direct flights from a few European cities, such as Amsterdam, Naples, Munich and Vienna.
• Budget alternative: You can fly to Athens with low-cost airlines such as Vueling, Volotea or Aegean Airlines, starting from 75 euros. Additionally, it has direct flights to other destinations like the USA and Canada.

• Accommodation starting from: 3 stars 32 euros and 4 stars 64 euros
• Restaurants
  • Meal in an inexpensive restaurant: 12 euros
  • Meal at a mid-range restaurant: 20 euros
  • Pint of beer: 4 euros
  • Cappuccino: 2.90 euros

⭐ You may also be interested in this article 10 Cheapest Greek Islands (and somewhat unknown), including Karpathos, for an affordable summer vacation, and this one on When to Travel to the Greek islands.

8. Kotor, Montenegro

Kotor is the most charming medieval city on the Montenegrin coast and, at the same time, one of the most affordable European places on this list.

This small town was declared UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a place where getting lost in its labyrinthine streets, visiting its Romanesque churches, and enjoying its cozy cafes is a pure delight.

A visit to Kotor is a great opportunity to relax in nature, whether on its beaches, hiking trails, or a boat trip through the Bay of Kotor , like this one from the link, where you'll find the beautiful Blue Cave.

Prices

• Flights: The nearest airport to Kotor is Tivat, which flies directly to various English, German, and other cities with several low-cost airlines, such as Jet2 and EasyJet, with flights starting from 93 euros round trip.
• Budget alternative: You can fly to Podgorica which is 88 km from Kotor where Ryanair and Wizz Air fly.

• Accommodation starting from: 3 stars 27 euros and 4 stars 37 euros
• Restaurants
  • Meal in an inexpensive restaurant: 12 euros
  • Meal at a mid-range restaurant: 27.50 euros
  • Pint of beer: 3.30 euros
  • Cappuccino: 2 euros

9. Larnaca, Cyprus

The coastal city of Larnaca is one of the affordable beach destinations in Europe, with beautiful sandy beaches, an interesting promenade, and historical buildings such as the medieval palace and the Kamares Aqueduct.

Nearby, there is an attractive salt lake, a protected reserve that is home to various water birds, including flamingos, who spend their winter there.

You can visit Hala Sultan Tekke, the beautiful mosque reflected in the lake.

Larnaca is a more budget-friendly city than Limassol and serves as a base to explore the island of Cyprus, including the Cape Greco National Park.

This forest park features natural pools, cliffs, and sea caves that will leave you in awe, and you can book an affordable boat tour here.

Prices

• Flights: you can get direct flights to Larnaca with EasyJet or Wizz Air starting from 74 euros round trip.
• Budget alternative: In case there are no affordable flights to Larnaca from the airport you depart from, as an alternative, you can check flights to Paphos, which is only 130 km from Larnaca and easily accessible by bus for around 10 euros.

• Accommodation starting from: 3 stars 36 euros and 4 stars 51 euros
• Restaurants
  • Meal in an inexpensive restaurant: 15 euros
  • Meal at a mid-range restaurant: 26.30 euros
  • Pint of beer: 4 euros
  • Cappuccino: 3.80 euros

10. Maribor, Slovenia

Maribor is a small city in Slovenia located in a wine region of the country.

There stands out its medieval historic center of beautiful cobblestone streets and a rich history, featuring the 15th-century baroque castle.

While Maribor might be smaller and perhaps not as captivating as Ljubljana, it is much more budget-friendly since the capital has become more expensive.

The advantage of this city is that you can visit the castles in the area and go on wine tours to taste fabulous wines; some vineyards are within walking distance.

Prices

• Flights: to go to Maribor the most practical way is to fly to Ljubljana, with flights starting from 129 euros with EasyJet, Wizz Air and Transavia, from London, Paris and Amsterdam. Then, from Ljubljana you have buses and trains to Maribor for just over 10 euros.
• Flight + bus alternative: You can also find reasonably priced flights to Zagreb in Croatia from various European cities with Ryanair and other airlines. There are also direct flights from Toronto. Then, to travel from Zagreb to Maribor, there are buses for 13 euros.

• Accommodation starting from: 3 stars 46 euros and 4 stars 100 euros
• Restaurants
  • Meal in an inexpensive restaurant: 8 euros
  • Meal at a mid-range restaurant: 17.50 euros
  • Pint of beer: 2.80 euros
  • Cappuccino: 1.70 euros

11. Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina – TOP

If you're looking for budget travel in Europe, Bosnia and Herzegovina is a very affordable country.

In this case, I recommend visiting Mostar, which, although not as lively as the capital, Sarajevo, is the most attractive destination in the country due to its landscapes, sometimes chosen by couples for romantic getaways.

The charm of this town lies in its streets and old Turkish stone houses, along the Neretva River, which looks like something out of a fairy tale. To crown its splendor, there is the imposing Old Bridge, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Prices

• Flights: Mostar airport only has flights from Croatia. Therefore, it is best to fly to Sarajevo, which has flights from several European cities and Middle Eastern. The most economical flights start from 43 euros round trip with Ryanair and Wizz Air.

• Alternative trip: The cheapest option is to combine a visit to Mostar with a trip to Croatia because the city is well-connected by bus and train from Dubrovnik and especially from Split.
• Accommodation starting from: 3 stars 15 euros and 4 stars 26 euros
• Restaurants
  • Meal in an inexpensive restaurant: 4.80 euros
  • Meal at a mid-range restaurant: 13.50 euros
  • Pint of beer: 1.70 euros
  • Cappuccino: 1.50 euros

12. Naples, Italy

When we talk about cheap countries in Europe we don't usually think of Italy, but as in Spain, France and other European countries, there is a lot of difference in prices between cities.

Southern Italy, especially Naples, stands out as a budget-friendly destination in Europe. However, Naples is a unique Italian city that doesn't appeal to everyone, at least not right away.

It's undeniably a city that requires a bit of time to discover its charm—a place of contrasts with a palace, ancient churches, and a fascinating underground area.

Of course, a visit to Naples wouldn't be complete without a excursion to Pompeii, like this one with a guide who will share many interesting details.

Prices

• Flights: One of the significant perks of traveling to Naples is that you'll find many incredibly cheap flights. There are flights from London and major European cities with various airlines, including several low-cost ones like EasyJet, Wizz Air, and Ryanair, starting from 41 euros round trip. Additionally, there are direct flights from New York and Philadelphia.

• Accommodation starting from: 3 stars 48 euros and 4 stars 71 euros
• Restaurants
  • Meal in an inexpensive restaurant: 15 euros
  • Meal at a mid-range restaurant: 27.50 euros
  • Pint of beer: 4 euros
  • Cappuccino: 1.80 euros

13. Porto, Portugal

Portugal is a perfect destination for budget-friendly European vacations, and in particular, the charming city of Porto has gained prominence in recent years, especially after winning the World Travel Award in 2022 for the best European destination.

Porto boasts a lively atmosphere with great restaurants, concerts, live music, and excellent wines like its famous Port wine. You can learn more about them and even visit its cellars for a wine tasting.

Moreover, the city features unique historical buildings such as the Clérigos Tower, the baroque-style cathedral, or the Chapel of Souls adorned with beautiful white and blue tiles.

Not to be forgotten is the Lello Bookstore, recognized as the most beautiful bookstore in the world by Lonely Planet and well-known among Harry Potter fans.

To save even more money, you can take this free tour of Porto.

Prices

• Flights: There are cheap direct flights to Porto with Ryanair, EasyJet, and WizzAir starting from 41 euros. Additionally, there are direct flights from Brazil, and the East Coast of Canada and the USA.

• Accommodation starting from: 3 stars 50 euros and 4 stars 64 euros
• Restaurants
  • Meal in an inexpensive restaurant: 9 euros
  • Meal at a mid-range restaurant: 21.30 euros
  • Pint of beer: 2 euros
  • Cappuccino: 1.30 euros

14. Plovdiv, Bulgaria

Bulgaria is one of Europe's budget-friendly gems, and the charming city of Plovdiv is its best-kept secret.

Plovdiv is just starting to make a name for itself among tourists due to its rich history, offering a beautiful old town where you can wander through its streets.

Grab a coffee in the bohemian Kapana neighborhood, which today attracts artists but once had a rather tumultuous past.

The city boasts a Roman theater from the 2nd century and stunning religious buildings, with the most notable being the Orthodox Church of Santa Marina – the oldest and most important, featuring a beautiful bell tower in traditional Bulgarian style.

Here's the link to a free tour of Plovdiv where they'll delve into the city's fascinating history.

Plovdiv is also a great base for visits to nearby monasteries with exquisite frescoes and nature excursions.

Prices

• Flights: Plovdiv has a small airport with direct flights from London and Manchester starting at 100 euros with Ryanair and Wizz Air.
• Budget alternative: If you're looking for affordable flights to Bulgaria, your best bet is to fly to Sofia, with prices starting at 41 euros. Sofia is only 150 km from Plovdiv, and there are buses and trains from as low as 5 euros.

• Accommodation starting from: 3 stars 28 euros and 4 stars 31 euros
• Restaurants
  • Meal in an inexpensive restaurant: 7.60 euros
  • Meal at a mid-range restaurant: 16 euros
  • Pint of beer: 1.90 euros
  • Cappuccino: 1.60 euros

15. Prague, Czech Republic

Prague is a city that has it all – a vibrant nightlife, rich cultural offerings, and excellent gastronomy, all set against the backdrop of Europe's most beautiful architecture.

The historic center of Prague is a World Heritage Site since 1992 featuring buildings constructed between the 11th and 18th centuries, including iconic landmarks like Charles Bridge, St. Vitus Cathedral, and Hradcani Castle, considered the largest ancient castle in the world.

While the city is dotted with emblematic spots like the Astronomical Clock and the Powder Tower, a fabulous Gothic tower, there's something to marvel at around every corner.

If you're looking to travel on a budget in Europe, Prague is a must-visit – it's like the crown jewel of affordable destinations.

For exploring the city, I highly recommend taking this free tour of Prague because there's so much to see that it's easy to overlook the details. Also, don't miss out on this affordable night cruise – it's totally worth it! 😍

Prices

• Flights: Another good news about traveling to Prague is that there are many cheap airlines from Europe with Ryanair, Jet2, EasyJet, Wizz Air, among others, with prices starting from 50 euros. There are also direct flights from New York, the Middle East, and Asia.

• Accommodation starting from: 3 stars 54 euros and 4 stars 58 euros
• Restaurants
  • Meal in an inexpensive restaurant: 10.40 euros
  • Meal at a mid-range restaurant: 25 euros
  • Pint of beer: 2.40 euros
  • Cappuccino: 3 euros

16. Riga, Latvia

Riga is the capital of Latvia, and since the Middle Ages, it has been an important cultural and economic center, boasting museums, lively concert halls, and vibrant nightlife.

In its wonderful old town, which is UNESCO World Heritage Site, you'll find classic-style wooden buildings and other Art Nouveau gems that will leave you speechless.

Some of the most interesting places to visit include St. Peter's Church, where the tower offers beautiful views of the city and the river.

And, of course, don't miss The Corner House, which used to be the headquarters of the KGB.

Riga is one of the fascinating and budget-friendly places to travel in Europe. Here, you can book a free tour or a gastronomic tour of Riga because Latvia is the Baltic country with the most delicious food.

Prices

• Flights: To travel to Riga, you'll find direct flights from many European cities with various airlines, including low-cost carriers Air Baltic and Ryanair, starting from 83 euros.

• Accommodation starting from: 3 stars 44 euros and 4 stars 47 euros
• Restaurants
  • Meal in an inexpensive restaurant: 12 euros
  • Meal at a mid-range restaurant: 27.50 euros
  • Pint of beer: 4 euros
  • Cappuccino: 2.80 euros

17. Skopje, Macedonia

Skopje is probably one of the lesser-known destinations on this list. It's the capital of North Macedonia, one of the cheapest countries to travel to in Europe.

The city has a rich culture and history thanks to the passage of the Romans, Byzantines and Ottomans, making it well worth a visit.

Some notable places in Skopje include the historic 12th-century Old Bazaar, the Stone Bridge, and its fortress.

Macedonia is a small country, and if you visit Skopje, I recommend taking the chance to tour Lake Ohrid to visit the local churches and the ancient Roman theater.

Prices

• Flights: When planning a trip to Skopje, you can find direct flights from Italy, Germany, England, and various other European countries, with affordable options starting at 107 euros for a round trip. Alternatively, flights with layovers begin at 69 euros.

• Accommodation starting from: 3 stars 30 euros and 4 stars 38 euros
• Restaurants
  • Meal in an inexpensive restaurant: 6.10 euros
  • Meal at a mid-range restaurant: 12.20 euros
  • Pint of beer: 2 euros
  • Cappuccino: 1.60 euros

18. Split, Croatia

Croatia has become increasingly popular in recent years, attracting tourists with its stunning landscapes while remaining one of the budget-friendly places in Europe.

Split, a coastal city with a rich cultural heritage, with the highlight being the Diocletian's Palace built by the Roman emperor between the 3rd and 4th centuries AD, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

While Dubrovnik remains a popular destination and perhaps even more charming than Split, the latter is strategically located for exploring other parts of the country.

For a spectacular excursion, consider this tour to Plitvice Lakes National Park , also declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, known for its lakes, waterfalls, and stunning caves.

Prices

• Flights: There are direct, affordable flights to Split from 88 euros, with the low cost airlines Ryanair, EasyJet and Volotea.

• Flight + bus or ferry alternative: If you can’t find cheap flights to Split from your city, you can fly to Dubrovnik instead. From Dubrovnik to Split, you have two transportation options: the cheapest is the bus, which costs around 9 euros, and the other is the ferry, a great option for enjoying the views. You can check on this website all ferry options, including schedules and prices, and book there.
• Accommodation starting from: 3 stars 30 euros and 4 stars 41 euros
• Restaurants
  • Meal in an inexpensive restaurant: 9 euros
  • Meal at a mid-range restaurant: 23.70 euros
  • Pint of beer: 2.70 euros
  • Cappuccino: 1.70 euros

19. Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn is an affordable European destination and a gem of a city with its incredible well-preserved medieval town, despite Soviet bombings during World War II.

One of the city's iconic spots is the Town Hall Square or Raekoja plats, adorned with colorful Gothic buildings.

Tallinn is a city meant for strolling through its alleys, such as Katarina Passage or Pikk Street, and being captivated by landmarks like the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.

One thing you can do in Tallinn is take a one-day trip to Finland's capital, which is right across the water.

It's very affordable if you buy a round-trip ferry package to Helsinki from Tallinn, like this one.

Prices

• Flights: Several airports offer direct flights to Tallinn, including London, Paris, Milan, Berlin, and more, with prices starting at 61 euros with Ryanair and WizzAir.

• Accommodation starting from: 3 stars 47 euros and 4 stars 57 euros
• Restaurants
  • Meal in an inexpensive restaurant: 12 euros
  • Meal at a mid-range restaurant: 30 euros
  • Pint of beer: 5 euros
  • Cappuccino: 3.10 euros

20. Tbilisi, Georgia – TOP

Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, was declared one of the cheapest cities to live in back in 2017.

Since then, with the influx of digital nomads and, later, the Ukraine war, prices have risen, but it still stands out as one of the most economical cities in Europe.

Travelers are often pleasantly surprised by Tbilisi because it holds its own against the more famous European capitals. It showcases modern areas, a vibrant nightlife, and a good selection of restaurants.

On the other hand, it features a beautiful old town full of history where cultures have intertwined, offering a mosque, a synagogue, Georgian Orthodox, Armenian, and Christian churches.

Another fascinating part of its historic center is the sulfur baths.

However, my top recommendation is to explore the country itself, which has breathtaking landscapes and a fascinating history. A must-visit is the tour to Kazbegi, a mountain region of overwhelming beauty.

Prices

• Flights: Tbilisi has direct flights from some European cities like Berlin, Paris, and Rome, as well as other European, Middle Eastern, and Central Asian cities.
• Budget alternative: You can fly to Kutaisi Airport, which is 250 km from Tbilisi and well-connected by train. Kutaisi Airport receives low-cost flights from Wizz Air and Pegasus. For example, from London, there are no direct flights, but with 1 layover, you can find them from 164 euros.

• Accommodation starting from: 3 stars 15 euros and 4 stars 23 euros
• Restaurants
  • Meal in an inexpensive restaurant: 10.50 euros
  • Meal at a mid-range restaurant: 19.30 euros
  • Pint of beer: 1.80 euros
  • Cappuccino: 2.70 euros

⭐ You may also be interested in this article on How to get from Kutaisi Airport to the city and other areas of Georgia or this one Georgia Guide with the key articles I wrote for independent travel in a country where I lived for a year. 😉

21. Tirana, Albania – TOP

Tirana, the capital of Albania, is one of the three cheapest cities in Europe on this list, alongside Mostar and Tbilisi. The advantage of Tirana is that there are much cheaper direct flights.

One of the most interesting things about this city is its lively nightlife, offering varied activities, including good nightclubs.

On the more cultural side, you can't miss visiting Bunker Art 1 and 2 – gigantic bunkers turned into museums that are well worth the visit.

The bunkers were the result of a paranoid dictator who expected a bombing that never came. They're just one of the many remnants of the city's communist past, which you can explore with this interesting tour of Communist Tirana.

Another attraction in the city is the Dajti Express, a cable car that takes you to Mount Dajti, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city or take a ride on the zipline.

This mountain is also very popular for its hiking routes.

Prices

• Flights: To get to Tirana, you can find affordable direct flights from London and various other European cities with low-cost airlines like Wizz Air and Ryanair, starting at just 31 euros.

• Accommodation starting from: 3 stars 22 euros and 4 stars 26 euros
• Restaurants
  • Meal in an inexpensive restaurant: 7.60 euros
  • Meal at a mid-range restaurant: 19 euros
  • Pint of beer: 1.90 euros
  • Cappuccino: 1.50 euros

22. Vilnius, Lithuania

Vilnius is a true gem for travelers seeking budget-friendly destinations in Europe. It surprises visitors with its historic charm, featuring attractive medieval and Baroque buildings, among other architectural styles.

Some of the city's iconic places include:

• Cathedral Square home to the distinctive classical cathedral, which seems small next to the imposing bell tower by its side.
• The beautiful Pilies pedestrian street, with fascinating buildings of various styles, from Gothic to Renaissance.
• Tower of Gediminas which is the only standing tower that defended the castle.

For exploring the city, I recommend this guided free tour.

In addition, a trip to Vilnius wouldn't be complete without taking this tour to Trakai with audio guide.

Trakai is a Gothic castle situated on a tiny island in Lake Galvé, giving it a fairy-tale appearance.

Prices

• Flights: to Vilnius there are direct flights from major European cities with several airlines including Ryanair and Wizz Air, starting at 71 euros.

• Accommodation starting from: 3 stars 44 euros and 4 stars 53 euros
• Restaurants
  • Meal in an inexpensive restaurant: 10 euros
  • Meal at a mid-range restaurant: 30 euros
  • Pint of beer: 4.50 euros
  • Cappuccino: 2.90 euros

Notes about Prices in this Article

• Flights: These are the prices for direct flights from London, round trip, during mid-season (spring or autumn).
• Accommodation: These are hotels with good traveler ratings, centrally located or nearby, during the mid-season, and the price is per night based on double occupancy (for 2 people). You may find better prices in lower-category hotels or hostels, farther from the center, or with lower ratings. 😉
• Restaurants: These are average prices for each meal and beverage.
• The prices are from September 2023, except for flights that I updated in February 2024.

• Remember that prices are indicative, giving you an idea of what you might spend. However, prices near tourist attractions can be higher, and for various reasons, they may increase rapidly (increased tourism, inflation, etc.).

⭐ You may also be interested in this other article about 31 Budget Travel Tips for Europe covering transportation, food, accommodation, tickets, and recommendations that no one tells you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Map of the Cheapest Cities in Europe

* To check the legend for each place, click the button in the top left corner of the map. To view this map on your phone or computer, tap the star on the right side of the title. Then go to Google Maps, select "Your Places" and "Maps" from the menu.

Final Thoughts

These are the best cheap destinations in Europe in 2024, to discover new and interesting places at a good price.

If you have any questions, leave me a comment below, save the article for future adventures and share it with other travel lovers. Enjoy the trip! ❤✈

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