Hey there, fellow travelers! Vick and Ellie here, and we’re super excited to share our favorite budget-friendly European destinations with you. These locations in Europe are BEYOND affordable!
After spending countless adventures exploring this incredible continent, we’ve discovered that you don’t need deep pockets to experience the magic of Europe.
Trust us when we say that 2025 is shaping up to be THE year to explore these amazing cheap locations in Europe, especially with more travelers seeking authentic experiences that won’t break the bank.
And if you’re after cheap locations in the US, we got you covered as well!
Top 5 Cheap Locations in Europe
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest captured our hearts with its perfect blend of grandeur and affordability, where every corner tells a story without demanding a fortune to experience it.
Speaking of Budapest, you have to see the Christmas Market there – it’s one of the cheapest and most beautiful ones in Europe!
We found ourselves mesmerized by the stunning architecture of the Hungarian Parliament, rejuvenated by the healing waters of the thermal baths, and delighted by the incredibly reasonable prices at local restaurants and cafes.
The city’s unique ruin bars, set in abandoned buildings turned artistic spaces, offer an unforgettable nightlife experience that’s both culturally rich and budget-friendly.
Top Things to Do:
- Fall in love with the magnificent Buda Castle while exploring its grounds and museums – the panoramic views of the city are absolutely stunning!
- Pamper yourself at the historic Széchenyi Baths, where you can soak in healing thermal waters for just a fraction of what you’d pay at a luxury spa.
- Take a sunset cruise along the Danube River to see the city’s illuminated landmarks – it’s one of our favorite ways to experience Budapest’s magic.
Top Tips:
- Skip the tourist buses and explore the city on foot – Budapest’s most beautiful areas are wonderfully walkable and well-connected.
- Don’t miss the unique ruin bars in the Jewish Quarter, they’re not only affordable but offer an authentic glimpse into local nightlife.
- Get a multi-day transport pass if you plan to use public transit – it’s much cheaper than buying individual tickets.
Lisbon, Portugal – Our Favorite Entry on the Cheap Locations in Europe List
The moment we stepped foot in Lisbon, we knew we’d discovered a sun-drenched paradise that wouldn’t empty our wallets.
The city’s colorful streets, adorned with intricate tiles and echoing with the sounds of Fado music, offer endless opportunities for budget-conscious travelers to soak in authentic Portuguese culture.
Between riding the iconic yellow trams through narrow streets and savoring affordable pastéis de nata in local cafes, we found ourselves falling in love with Lisbon’s perfect balance of charm and value.
Top Things to Do:
- Hop aboard the historic Tram 28 for a scenic tour through the city’s most charming neighborhoods.
- Visit the magnificent Belém Tower at sunset – the golden light makes for incredible photos!
- Get lost in the winding streets of Alfama, where you’ll discover hidden viewpoints and authentic fado music.
Top Tips:
- Save money by eating at local markets like Time Out Market or Mercado da Ribeira.
- Purchase a Viva Viagem card for public transport – it’s much cheaper than individual tickets.
- Visit popular attractions early in the morning to avoid crowds and get better photos.
Prague, Czech Republic
Walking through Prague feels like stepping into a fairy tale – this magical experience comes with a surprisingly modest price tag.
The city’s stunning architecture, spanning Gothic to Art Nouveau, creates an enchanting backdrop for budget-friendly adventures, while the legendary Czech beer costs less than water in many other European capitals.
Prague also offers one of the best winter destinations for new couples – we loved it!
We discovered that the best way to experience Prague’s charm is by wandering through its cobblestone streets, where every turn reveals another architectural marvel or cozy, affordable pub.
Top Things to Do:
- Walk across Charles Bridge at sunrise to experience its magic without the crowds.
- Explore the vast Prague Castle complex – get there early and plan to spend at least half a day.
- Sample traditional Czech beers at local pubs – we recommend trying different ones each night!
Top Tips:
- Avoid restaurants on the main tourist streets; walk just a few blocks away for better prices and quality.
- Look for “pivnice” (local pubs) instead of tourist-oriented bars for authentic experiences.
- Buy a multi-day public transport pass to save money on getting around.
Kraków, Poland
In Kraków, we discovered a medieval masterpiece that proves historic charm doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag.
The city’s magnificent Market Square, the largest medieval town square in Europe, serves as the perfect starting point for exploring this budget-friendly gem, where history comes alive without the usual tourist markup.
Between sampling pierogi at local milk bars and exploring the majestic Wawel Castle, we found endless opportunities for memorable experiences that left both our hearts and wallets full.
Top Things to Do:
- Explore the massive Rynek Główny, especially during sunrise when the square is peacefully empty.
- Visit the awe-inspiring Wawel Castle and Cathedral complex – don’t miss the dragon’s cave!
- Take a deeply moving day trip to Auschwitz-Birkenau to learn about this important historical site.
Top Tips:
- Use the efficient and budget-friendly tram system to explore the city.
- Try local “milk bars” (bar mleczny) for incredibly affordable traditional Polish meals.
- Purchase tickets for popular attractions online in advance to save both time and money.
Valencia, Spain
Valencia stole our hearts with its perfect blend of historic charm and modern innovation, all while being surprisingly gentle on our travel budget.
This coastal city offers the perfect alternative to pricier Spanish destinations, with its stunning City of Arts and Sciences complex, beautiful beaches, and the birthplace of authentic paella all accessible without breaking the bank.
The local markets and restaurants serve up some of the best food we’ve ever tasted in Spain, proving that you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy world-class cuisine.
Top Things to Do:
- Spend a day exploring the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences – it’s like stepping into another world!
- Stroll or bike through the gorgeous Turia Gardens, the green heart of the city.
- Relax at Malvarrosa Beach and enjoy the Mediterranean vibes without the Costa del Sol prices.
Top Tips:
- Visit during March for the incredible Las Fallas festival, but book accommodations well in advance.
- Eat authentic paella for lunch instead of dinner – it’s traditionally a daytime meal and often cheaper.
- Use Valenbisi bike sharing system to explore the city – it’s affordable and fun!
Hidden Gems in Europe
Bratislava, Slovakia
Just an hour from Vienna, we stumbled upon Bratislava, a city that offers all the Central European charm at a fraction of the price.
The compact old town, crowned by its magnificent castle, provides a delightful mix of medieval architecture, communist-era curiosities, and modern cafes that won’t strain your budget.
Between exploring hidden courtyards and enjoying affordable local wines, we found Bratislava to be the perfect addition to any budget-conscious European adventure.
Top Things to Do:
- Explore the imposing Bratislava Castle and its surrounding gardens.
- Wander through the charming Old Town, spotting quirky statues along the way.
- Take in panoramic city views from the UFO Tower’s observation deck.
Top Tips:
- Consider a day trip to the stunning Devín Castle – it’s easily accessible by public transport.
- Buy the Bratislava Card if you plan to visit multiple attractions.
- Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds from nearby Vienna and Budapest.
Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Our journey to Mostar revealed one of Europe’s most photogenic cities, where East meets West in a fascinating blend of cultures and traditions.
The iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge) serves as the centerpiece of this affordable destination, where we found ourselves immersed in history while enjoying some of the most budget-friendly accommodation and dining options in Europe.
The local hospitality we experienced here was truly priceless, though fortunately, everything else was remarkably affordable.
Top Things to Do:
- Watch local divers jump from the famous Stari Most bridge – or take a diving course yourself!
- Explore the atmospheric Old Bazaar and practice your bargaining skills.
- Relax at one of the many riverside cafes with views of the bridge.
Top Tips:
- Stay overnight to experience the city without day-trippers from Dubrovnik.
- Visit the mosque’s minaret for the best views of the bridge and city.
- Exchange money at official exchange offices rather than street vendors.
Cool Facts About Cheap Locations in Europe
Did you know that Europe’s 44 countries offer such an incredible variety of experiences that you could spend years exploring and still find new surprises?
We love how using the Euro in most countries makes budgeting super straightforward, and we’ve saved countless euros by utilizing Europe’s amazing train network to hop between cities.
Trains became our favorite way to travel, offering scenic routes that connect these destinations while being kind to our wallet.
What to Avoid in the Cheap Locations in Europe
Through our travels, we’ve learned that rushing through too many countries in one trip often leads to both exhaustion and unnecessary expenses.
We’ve discovered that avoiding tourist trap restaurants near major attractions can save you serious money (and often get you better food!).
Most importantly, we always make an effort to learn basic local customs and greetings – it’s not only respectful but often leads to more authentic experiences and sometimes even better prices at local establishments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit cheap locations in Europe?
From our experience, planning your visit during late spring or early fall offers the perfect balance of good weather, smaller crowds and better prices. These months also tend to have more moderate temperatures, making it perfect for exploring cities on foot.
How can I save money while traveling in Europe?
We’ve mastered the art of budget travel by finding best flight deals, booking accommodations early, and asking locals for their cheap restaurants. These simple strategies have helped us explore Europe without emptying our savings.
Are Locations in Europe safe for budget travelers?
In our extensive travels throughout Europe, we’ve found it to be incredibly safe for budget travelers. However, we always recommend staying aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas, and keeping your belongings secure.
Do I need a visa to travel to Europe?
This is one of the most common questions we get, and the answer depends entirely on your nationality. We always recommend checking the specific requirements for your country well in advance – avoid any last-minute surprises.
Happy Travels!
Traveling Europe on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing amazing experiences. With these cheap locations in Europe, your 2025 adventures will be unforgettable. Plan smartly, explore deeply, and let the journey bring you closer to the wonders of this diverse continent. Safe travels from Vick & Ellie!
Love, Vick & Ellie
