20 Best Budget Holiday Destinations to Visit in Europe for 2024

Planning for a Europe budget holiday in 2023? With so many amazing destinations across this diverse continent, it can be hard to narrow down the best places to go that won’t break the bank.

 

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover the top 20 cheapest and most affordable places to visit in Europe this year. From charming Eastern European cities to Mediterranean paradises, these destinations allow you to stretch your travel budget further so you can experience more of Europe’s beauty and culture.

Key Takeaways:

• Eastern Europe offers some of the best budget destinations like Budapest, Krakow, and Prague.
• Beach vacations in Sunny Beach, Bulgaria and Algarve, Portugal are very affordable.
• Major cities like Lisbon, Porto, Athens, and Budapest are cheaper than other European capitals.
• Nature lovers should visit Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia and High Tatras in Slovakia.
• Smaller cities and towns provide great value like Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Cesky Krumlov in Czechia, and Sintra in Portugal.

Why Travel Europe on a Budget?

Visiting Europe is a dream for many, but the high prices of mega-cities like London, Paris, and Rome deter budget travelers. Fortunately, there are many affordable alternatives to experience Europe’s cultural treasures and natural wonders without breaking the bank.

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Some key reasons why budget European travel is worth it:

• Save money: With proper planning, you can visit Europe for much less than you may think. Budget airlines, affordable lodging, and free attractions allow you to save.
• Avoid crowds: By visiting cheaper destinations, you’ll encounter fewer tourists and more authentic local experiences.
• More time: Spending less per day allows you to extend your trip and see more of Europe.
• Well-connected: Low-cost airlines and efficient trains/buses make hopping between countries easy.
• Offers variety: Europe offers mountain villages, sunny coasts, big cities, and everything in between to suit different interests.

Follow these budget Europe travel tips, and you’ll be set for an epic yet affordable adventure!

Cheapest Countries in Europe

 

When planning a budget European holiday, your first question is likely: “Which countries offer the best value?”

The cheapest regions are generally in Eastern and Southeastern Europe, where lower incomes mean prices for visitors are quite low.

Here is a breakdown of some of the least expensive countries for travellers in Europe:

• Bulgaria: One of the cheapest destinations in Europe for food, transportation, and activities. Sunny Beach is popular for budget beach vacations.
• Czech Republic: Prague and other Czech cities offer great European charm at low prices. Excellent and inexpensive beer!
• Hungary: Budapest is one of the cheapest capitals with lots of free activities. Food and accommodation cost little.
• Poland: Poland combines great history, food, and nightlife at budget prices. Check out Krakow and Gdansk.
• Romania: Medieval towns like Brasov and Sighisoara dazzle visitors. Romania’s low costs make it easy to explore.
• Greece: Despite being a popular European destination, Greece offers great value outside expensive islands. Athens is very affordable.
• Portugal: Lisbon and Porto are some of the cheapest cities in Western Europe. Stretch your budget further outside big cities.
• Slovakia: One of the least visited but cheapest countries in Europe. Experience caves, mountains, and medieval ruins on the cheap.

Now let’s dive into the top 20 budget holiday destinations for 2023!

1. Sunny Beach, Bulgaria

 

Average daily budget: €20-40

Why it’s great: Bulgaria’s seaside resort of Sunny Beach attracts budget beach lovers to its lively party scene and golden sand beaches along the Black Sea. With all-inclusive hotel deals and tons of nightclubs, it’s one of the cheapest beach vacations in Europe.

Top attractions:

• Sunny Beach – The lively coastline with water sports, beach clubs, and nightlife.
• Aladzha Monastery – A medieval Orthodox cave monastery carved into a cliff.
• Nesebar – A historic seaside town and UNESCO site with medieval churches.
• Action Aquapark – Big water slides and pools are perfect for families.

2. Budapest, Hungary

Average daily budget: €40-60

Why it’s great: As one of Europe’s most beautiful capitals, Budapest offers outstanding landmarks like the Parliament Building, Buda Castle, and Chain Bridge alongside vibrant nightlife. Experience thermal baths, Danube River views, and Jewish Quarter history all at affordable prices.

Top attractions:

• Buda Castle – Get panoramic city views from this Baroque palace complex.
• Hungarian Parliament – A spectacular Neo-Gothic landmark on the Danube.
• Thermal baths – Relax in the renowned “Széchenyi” or “Gellért” baths.
• Ruin bars – Unique nightlife venues in the Jewish Quarter’s old buildings.

3. Krakow, Poland

Average daily budget: €30-50

Why it’s great: Krakow beautifully combines Polish history and culture with lively student life. Wander medieval Old Town, visit stunning churches, learn about Poland’s past at Auschwitz, and enjoy buzzing bars all while sticking to a budget.

Top attractions:

• Wawel Castle – A historic palace and fortress on a hilltop overlooking the city.
• Main Market Square – Krakow’s centre with restaurants, churches, and markets.
• Auschwitz-Birkenau – The former WWII concentration and extermination camp.
• Wieliczka Salt Mine – See incredible underground salt chambers.

4. Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia

 

Average daily budget: €50-70

Why it’s great: Located between Zagreb and Zadar, Plitvice Lakes National Park remains one of Croatia’s top attractions thanks to its pristine chain of 16 terraced lakes connected by waterfalls and hiking trails. Enjoy a budget-friendly and beautiful natural wonder.

Top attractions:

• Plitvice Lakes – Spend a day walking around these breathtaking turquoise lakes and waterfalls.
• Veliki Slap – The largest and most powerful waterfall in the national park.
• Lake Kozjak – The park’s longest lake is perfect for taking memorable photos.
• Boat rides – Leisurely cruise across the lakes.

5. Porto, Portugal

Average daily budget: €50-70

Why it’s great: While cheaper than Lisbon, Porto still delivers Portuguese charm, excellent food and wine, and scenic views across the Douro River and Atlantic coastline. Relax at a riverside cafe, sample Port wine, and stroll through Ribeira’s pastel-coloured houses.

Top attractions:

• Livraria Lello – The gorgeous bookstore that partly inspired J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter.
• Ribeira District – Picturesque riverfront neighbourhood with cafes and restaurants.
• Port wine cellars – Tour cellars and taste Port in Vila Nova de Gaia across the river.
• Serralves Museum and Park – Cutting-edge contemporary art museum set in a tranquil park.

6. Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic

Average daily budget: €40-60

Why it’s great: This small medieval town in South Bohemia charms visitors with its quaint cobblestone lanes and 800-year-old castle complex overlooking the Vltava River. Cesky Krumlov provides a fairy tale European atmosphere for much less than bigger Czech cities.

Top attractions:

• Cesky Krumlov Castle – One of Europe’s best-preserved medieval castles with Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque elements.
• Castle Gardens – Lovely terraced gardens with panoramic views.
• Old Town – Wander the charming narrow streets lined with colourful architecture.
• Rafting – Float down the Vltava River.

7. Algarve, Portugal

Average daily budget: €50-80

Why it’s great: While the Algarve has upscale beach resorts, budget travellers can still access the breathtaking coastline, laidback towns, and Portuguese charm for less. Lagos, Faro, and Tavira offer great beaches, food, and nightlife without high prices.

Top attractions:

• Praia da Marinha – Stunning beach surrounded by golden cliffs.
• Benagil Sea Cave – Swim inside this iconic sea cave accessible by boat tour.
• Lagos Old Town – Walled city centre with cobbled streets and pretty squares.
• Tavira – Relaxed riverside town with Roman ruins and seafood restaurants.

8. Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina

 

Average daily budget: €30-50

Why it’s great: Mostar delivers an authentic Balkan experience with its majestic stone bridge stretching over the emerald Neretva River, bustling old bazaar, and narrow cobblestone lanes. While very affordable, Mostar offers world-class sights and culture.

Top attractions:

• Stari Most – Mostar’s iconic 16th-century stone bridge and surrounding Old Town.
• Bazaar – Wind your way through this large market where locals shop.
• Turkish House Museum – Step inside a preserved Ottoman house.
• War Photo Exhibition – Learn about Mostar’s difficult 1990s conflict.

9. Athens, Greece

Average daily budget: €50-70

Why it’s great: As an ancient epicentre of philosophy and civilization, Athens offers iconic monuments like the Acropolis, Temple of Zeus, and Ancient Agora at budget rates compared to other major European capitals. The tasty Greek food is also very affordable!

Top attractions:

• Acropolis & Parthenon – The can’t-miss ancient citadel overlooking the city.
• National Archaeological Museum – Greece’s top collection of ancient artefacts.
• Plaka – Atmospheric old neighbourhood perfect for wandering, eating, and shopping.
• Temple of Zeus – Impressive columns and ruins of a former colossal temple.

10. High Tatras, Slovakia

Average daily budget: €40-60

Why it’s great: The rugged High Tatras mountains along Slovakia’s northern border provide breathtaking alpine scenery without Switzerland prices. Base yourself in budget-friendly towns like Starý Smokovec for hiking trails and snow sports.

Top attractions:

• Hiking – Trek through snowcapped peaks, alpine lakes, waterfalls, and forests.
• Skiing – Hit the slopes in Malá Fatra, Veľká Fatra, and Roháče.
• Strbské Pleso – Lovely high mountain lake with cafes and boat rentals.
• Poprad Old Town – Charming pedestrian centre with Gothic architecture.

11. Kotor, Montenegro

Average daily budget: €40-60

Why it’s great: Situated on Montenegro’s Adriatic coastline beneath soaring mountains, the medieval walled city of Kotor feels straight out of a fairy tale. Climb up to the San Giovanni Fortress for epic panoramas over terracotta rooftops and out to the sparkling sea.

Top attractions:

• Kotor City Walls – Historic fortified walls offering great views.
• Cathedral of Saint Tryphon – A Romanesque-Gothic church in the historic centre.
• Perast is a charming village of stone palaces and churches.
• Boat trip – Cruise through the scenic Bay of Kotor.

12. Pecs, Hungary

 

Average daily budget: €20-40

Why it’s great: Often overlooked for Budapest, the southern city of Pecs showcases 2,000 years of architecture and history at extremely affordable rates. Wander the Early Christian ruins and Baroque buildings before relaxing in the city’s famous Turkish-era baths.

Top attractions:

• Early Christian Necropolis – Well-preserved underground 4th-century tombs.
• Mosque of Pasha Qasim – Pecs’ oldest and largest Ottoman structure.
• Zsolnay Cultural Quarter – Eye-catching colorful buildings made of decorative tiles.
• Széchenyi tér – Lovely main plaza flanked by the Mosque and Gothic cathedral.

13. Riga, Latvia

Average daily budget: €40-60

Why it’s great: As the largest Baltic capital, Riga enchants visitors with medieval Old Town squares, art nouveau buildings, strollable parks, and lively bars and shops. Take an affordable city break to experience Latvian culture and food.

Top attractions:

• Old Riga – Historic centre with the iconic House of the Blackheads.
• Central Market – Vast market inside former zeppelin hangars.
• Art Nouveau District – The world’s highest concentration of this architectural style.
• Jurmala – Relax at Baltic seaside resorts a short ride from Riga.

14. Ljubljana, Slovenia

Average daily budget: €50-70

Why it’s great: Slovenia’s tiny capital gains European charm from its car-free Old Town, hilltop castle, outdoor cafes, and funky markets along the Ljubljanica River. This affordable city also provides access to Slovenia’s stunning nature.

Top attractions:

• Ljubljana Castle – Hilltop views and a history museum.
• Triple Bridge – Distinctive city icon lined with popular bars.
• Metelkova – Alternative culture hub with street art in a former army base.
• Lake Bled – Fairytale lake and island surrounded by peaks.

15. Granada, Spain

Average daily budget: €40-60

Why it’s great: Granada highlights Islamic architecture and Moorish design, especially at the grand Alhambra Palace and Generalife Gardens. For budget prices, you can explore these intricate World Heritage Sites and more.

Top attractions:

• Alhambra – Elaborate and ornate 14th-century Moorish palace complex.
• Generalife – Beautifully designed Alhambra gardens with fountains and trees.
• Albayzín – Hilly old Arab quarter with winding lanes and whitewashed houses.
• Mirador San Nicolás – Stunning views over the Alhambra.

16. Tirana, Albania

 

Average daily budget: €30-50

Why it’s great: Albania’s colourful capital provides an off-the-beaten-path experience in the Balkans for cheap. Wander Socialist-Realist architecture contrasted with hip cafes, visit ancient ruins in town, and save money for day trips around the country.

Top attractions:

• Bunk’art – Fascinating history museum inside a Cold War bunker.
• Et’hem Bey Mosque – Gorgeous 19th-century mosque with handpainted frescoes.
• National History Museum – Albania’s largest museum located in an old fortress.
• Dajti Mountain – Ride the cable car up for sweeping city views.

17. Belgrade, Serbia

Average daily budget: €30-50

Why it’s great: At the intersection of Serbian culture, history, and nightlife, Belgrade charms visitors with a pretty old town, imposing fortress, fun floating clubs on the Sava and Danube Rivers, delicious and affordable Balkan cuisine, and a hopping alternative scene.

Top attractions:

• Belgrade Fortress – Overlooking the city with ancient ruins, a museum, and the iconic clock tower.
• Skadarlija – The bohemian quarter is popular for traditional restaurants and nightlife.
• St. Sava Temple – One of the world’s largest Orthodox churches with glittering gold domes.
• Zemun – Charming former town absorbed by Belgrade on the Danube with Ottoman and Austrian architecture.

18. Gdansk, Poland

Average daily budget: €40-60

Why it’s great: As an important medieval port city, Gdansk delights visitors with historic landmarks mingling with modern vibes. Learn about WWII, stroll the canals, and find great museums and nightlife around every corner.

Top attractions:

• Old Town – Mix of magnificent merchant houses, ornate churches, and canal-side alleys.
• Museum of the Second World War – Poland’s top museum for WWII history.
• Monument to the Fallen Shipyard Workers – Honoring Solidarity movement heroes.
• Neptune’s Fountain – Beautiful 17th-century fountain with bronze statues.

19. Sintra, Portugal

Average daily budget: €40-60

Why it’s great: Make Sintra your base for exploring Portugal’s history and natural beauty. Tour opulent palaces and estates in town before escaping into the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park’s dense forests, rugged coastlines, and misty hills.

Top attractions:

• Pena Palace – One of Europe’s most stunning palaces, resembling a fantasy castle.
• Quinta da Regaleira – Ornate mansion, gardens, and mystical initiation well.
• Moorish Castle – Remains of Sintra’s centuries-old hilltop Moorish settlement.
• Cabo da Roca – Cliffside Park overlooking the westernmost point of mainland Europe.

20. Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

 

Average daily budget: €30-50

Why it’s great: Showcasing Muslim, Jewish, Orthodox and Catholic influences, Sarajevo earned the nickname “Little Jerusalem” for its rich religious diversity, fascinating history, culture, and scenic mountainous setting. It’s a very affordable way to experience the Balkans.

Top attractions:

• Bascarsija – Lively Ottoman quarter packed with cafes, markets, and 16th-century mosques.

• Latin Bridge – The bridge where WWI started with Archduke Franz Ferdinand’s assassination.
• Tunnel Museum – Learn how an underground tunnel was a lifeline during the 1990s siege.
• Yellow Fortress – a 19th-century fortress on a hill with great views over the city.
• War Childhood Museum – Powerful stories and objects from kids’ lives during the Bosnian War.

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Tips for Budget Travel in Europe

To enjoy Europe without going over your budget, utilize these money-saving travel tips:

• Book budget airlines like RyanAir, EasyJet, Wizz Air, and Volotea to jet around Europe for less.
• Take overnight trains and buses to save on accommodation costs while traveling.
• Visit off-season to benefit from lower prices and smaller crowds.
• Eat street food and affordable local cuisine to save on dining expenses.
• Stay in hostels or budget hotels, which cost much less than luxury hotels. Private rooms with WiFi and ensuite bathrooms are very affordable.
• Use public transportation like metros, trams, trains, and buses to get around cities instead of taxis. Walking and biking are also free!
• Buy attraction passes and activity packages to maximize value at sights. Museums are often free or discounted on certain days.
• Avoid excess shopping and souvenirs. Focus your spending on experiences.
• Drink local beer and wine instead of more expensive imported alcohol.
• Join free walking tours to learn about top city sights and history.
• Visit free museums and galleries, especially national collections.

Experience the Beauty of Europe on Any Budget

With some savvy planning using these money-saving tips, Central and Eastern Europe offer loads of phenomenal destinations where you can stretch your travel dollars much further.

Alternating trips to big cities with rural towns and nature will allow you to balance must-see landmarks with peaceful scenery and authentic local experiences. Avoid overspending on dining and activities, and you can happily embark on the European adventure you’ve been dreaming of without breaking the bank.

So what are you waiting for? Use this list to start planning your affordable European getaway in 2023!