15 Best Budget-Friendly European Cities for Cost-Conscious Travelers
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If you’re seeking cheap breaks, Eastern European cities offer some of the best bargains on the planet. Whether Spain, Greece, and Turkey appeal more, or you’d prefer to head to Bulgaria, Serbia, or Romania, here are the top places to expect to pay low prices.
Porto, Portugal
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If fine food and wine are what a city break is about for you, head to Porto. Robust bridges, fortified wine, cobbled lanes, and baroque churches are among the city’s top draws. The riverside position adds to Porto’s appeal, too.
Read more: Unmissable Things To Do in Lisbon
Budapest, Hungary
Despite burgeoning popularity in recent decades, Budapest remains a bargain when it comes to European breaks. The Hungarian capital comprises the Buda and Pest districts, which are connected by the Chain Bridge over the Danube. Don’t miss the art nouveau architecture, a fun ride up to Buda old town- the historic former capital of Hungary- or a soak in the city’s mineral-rich bathhouses during your stay.
Read also: Most Stunning Small Towns in Europe
Sofia, Bulgaria
Sofia is also well-known compared to some European cities, yet still offers a meager cost of living. A 2,000-year history means there’s lots to discover in the Bulgarian capital. The Banya Bashi Springs here even dispense free mineral water to residents and visitors!
Read also: Must-Visit Cities in Europe
Český Krumlov, Czech Republic
If Prague is done and dusted for you, try Český Krumlov in the Czech Republic instead. Baroque architecture, glorious gardens, and beautiful views from the bell tower await. It’s as pretty as Prague but far less touristy.
Read also: Romantic Getaways in Europe
Valletta, Malta
Perhaps surprisingly, Valletta in Malta is a cut-price place to visit. It’s a compact walled city that you can quickly discover on foot, offering plenty of churches, palaces, and museums. The city also has a thriving arts and music scene and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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Read more: Breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Bucharest, Romania
The 1,100-room Palatul Parlamentului, a Communist-era government building, dominates the center of Bucharest in Romania. In Bucharest, you can also savor riverside living. There’s also the vibrant nightlife of the Lipscani district if you’re so inclined.
Read also: Charming Small Towns in Europe
Zagreb, Croatia
Ancient architecture is one of the main draws of this city in northwestern Croatia. This city is made for strolling, whether along cafe-lined Tkalčićeva Street, through one of the parks, or around the main square. There are plenty of shops and museums to dip into, too.
Read also: European Cities for a Spring Getaway
Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul is where East truly meets West, yet it’s often classed as part of Europe. Wandering the streets of the gateway to Asia feels far removed from the rest of the continent. There are Byzantine marvels, lively bazaars, tempting aromas, and regular calls to prayer.
Read also: Unique Places for Your European Bucket List
Bratislava, Slovakia
Bratislava is a picturesque setting with hiking trails, vineyards, and mountains. An 18th-century town center is closed to cars. Savor views over the Danube from the hilltop Bratislava Castle. What’s not to love about this Slovakian city?
Read also: Castles in Europe
Kraków, Poland
Polish cities offer massive bang for your buck. You can enjoy everything Kraków offers without spending too much money, and there are cheap flights from all over Europe. Expect bohemian bars, cozy cafes, a Jewish quarter, and medieval architecture. Oh, and cheap beer, of course!
Read also: Hidden Islands in Europe
Athens, Greece
Sometimes overshadowed by the country’s islands, the Greek capital has much going for it, including cheap prices. In a city home to so much history, don’t miss visiting the mighty Acropolis, an ancient citadel on a rocky outcrop. Athens is one of the most affordable yet well-known spots in Europe.
Read also: Famous Landmarks in Greece
Sarajevo, Bosnia-Herzegovina
Sarajevo in Bosnia-Herzegovina is attractively set among the Dinaric Alps. As it’s often known, the ‘Jerusalem of the Balkans’ has a compact center that’s a joy to explore. If you want to know about the origins of World War I, go to Sarajevo 1878–1918, where you can find out about Archduke Franz Ferdinand’s assassination in 1914.
Read also: Underrated Places in the Mediterranean
Belgrade, Serbia
Belgrade’s iconic Beogradska Tvrđava fortress marks where the Danube and Sava rivers meet. Head here, and you can expect welcoming locals, a rich history, and pocket-friendly prices.
Read also: Top Greek Islands for Beaches, Ranked
Valencia, Spain
Valencia is Spain’s more affordable answer to touristy Barcelona. Accommodation is far cheaper, yet there’s so much to see and do. Sample a tasty plate of paella in the city where it was invented, and enjoy the contrast of cutting-edge buildings set against a classic European old town. The sunny climate is a real perk, too!
Read also: Top Things To Do in Barcelona
Riga, Latvia
Riga is one for the culture vultures among you. It’s situated where the Baltic Sea meets the River Daugava and is awash with concert halls, wooden buildings, and museums. There’s also an appealing old town, plus Livu Square comes alive after dark.
Read also: Europe’s Best Value Beach Destinations
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