12 European Towns So Charming and Affordable, You'll Want To Move There

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Traveling across Europe, especially to the big cities and popular tourist resorts, can often be costly. However, this doesn’t mean you should give up on your travel dreams. By choosing affordable destinations, you can make the most of your budget and still have a fulfilling travel experience.

Luckily, Europe is home to some of the world’s most picturesque small towns, each offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. For travelers seeking affordable getaways, these charming destinations provide an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life without breaking the bank.

Looking for a memorable escape that is also economical? You will not regret adding these 12 beautiful small European towns to your travel plans.

Reine, Norway

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Reine’s allure lies in its simplicity and the stunning natural environment that offers numerous opportunities to explore and relax. Located in the Lofoten Islands, this picturesque fishing village has dramatic peaks, clear blue waters, and traditional red and white fishermen’s cabins (rorbuer) waiting to be explored. The surrounding fjords and mountainous landscape provide a breathtaking backdrop to this serene and charming location.

Depending on when you visit, you can experience the northern lights or the midnight sun. You can also go kayaking, fishing, or hiking the Reinebringen, which offers panoramic views over Reine and the surrounding fjords.

Reine is a destination that allows you to escape the hustle and bustle of big and pricier cities like Oslo, while still providing all the amenities you may need, and at a fraction of the cost.

Hallstatt, Austria

Hallstatt is a perfect destination for those who appreciate history, natural beauty, and tranquility. Its stunning alpine scenery, rich cultural heritage, and peaceful atmosphere make it an ideal spot for relaxation and exploration. Whether you’re interested in outdoor activities, historical tours, or simply soaking in the scenic views, this charming small town tucked between Lake Hallstatt and the Dachstein Alps offers a unique experience.

Beyond its picturesque location, you can explore its beautiful pastel-colored houses, scenic waterfronts, the historic Hallstatt salt mines, which are some of the oldest in the world; the Hallstatt Ossuary (Bone House), which hosts over 1200 skulls, mainly from the 12th century; or the Hallstatt Museum, which hosts exhibits of Hallstatt’s history.

Despite being small, Hallstatt offers so much to see and do, all while remaining reasonably priced.

Cadaqués, Spain

Hidden Gems in Spain Cadaqués — © oleg_p_100 / Adobe Stock

Cadaqués is a perfect destination for those looking to enjoy the ultimate Mediterranean charm without breaking the bank. Located on the Costa Brava coastline, this charming town is an ideal place to relax by the sea, explore a rich artistic heritage, or go on hiking adventures, especially through the scenic landscapes of Cap de Creus.

If you are not soaking in its beauty, you can swing by Salvador Dalí House-Museum, the former home of Salvador Dalí in Portlligat, which has been turned into a museum showcasing his life and work. The house itself is a work of art, with quirky and surrealist elements waiting to be explored. You can also head to Cap de Creus Natural Park, known for its unique rock formations, hiking trails, and breathtaking coastal views.

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If you are into beaches, you can relax in popular spots like Platja Gran, Platja del Ros, and Cala Nans. For a destination with these many offerings, you cannot overlook how affordable Cadaques remains compared to other coastal destinations.

Saint-Jean-de-Luz, France

Saint-Jean-de-Luz perfectly blends historical charm, cultural richness, and natural beauty. This charming coastal town is in the French Basque Country, near the French-Spanish border.

The town features a beautiful mix of traditional Basque architecture with red-tiled roofs, whitewashed walls, and colorful wooden shutters. If you are not marveling at its architecture, you can head to its picturesque harbor lined with fishing boats and the town’s sandy beaches. Grande Plage, the town’s main beach, is not to be missed.

If you would like an alternative to the pricier Southern French cities, Saint-Jean-de-Luz would be a great gateway.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany

Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a charming town that offers an immersive experience of medieval Germany. Its medieval architecture, rich history, and fairytale-like atmosphere provide numerous opportunities to learn about its past while enjoying its beauty and irresistible charm.

While the town has so much to explore, do not miss out on Rothenburg Town Walls, Market Square, and St. Jacob’s Church (St. Jakobskirche). You also want to make time for the Christmas Museum, a year-round museum dedicated to the history and traditions of Christmas in Germany.

Beyond landmarks, you can spend your escape just strolling along the streets, discovering the numerous Instagram-worthy spots in the town.

Sozopol, Bulgaria

Bulgaria is one of the underrated tourist destinations in Europe despite offering stunning landscapes while remaining budget-friendly. If you are looking for a destination where your money will stretch further, consider Sozopol, a charming coastal town on Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast. It features a picturesque old town with narrow cobblestone streets, historic wooden houses, and beautiful sea views.

During your visit, explore Sozopol Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; St. Cyril and Methodius Church, which is the home of the relics of St. John the Baptist; and its stunning beaches, including Central Beach and Harmani Beach.

After a long day of exploration, you can catch a break at Sea Garden, a lovely park along the coast with walking paths, gardens, and stunning views of the Black Sea. Whether you stay or visit for a few days, your money will offer more value for dining, accommodation and activities in Sozopol and Bulgaria. A couple could live off a monthly budget of $620 in Sozopol, rent exclusive.

Seydisfjordur, Iceland

Seyðisfjörður is a picturesque town located at the innermost point of the Seyðisfjörður fjord in eastern Iceland. The city is framed by steep mountains and features colorful wooden houses, charming streets, and a scenic harbor. The surrounding landscape is dotted by waterfalls, lush valleys, and dramatic fjord views, creating a striking backdrop for relaxation, exploration or photography.

Some of Seyðisfjörður’s noteworthy highlights include the well-preserved 19th-century Norwegian-style wooden buildings, Seyðisfjörður Church, one of the most photographed landmarks in the town; and Rainbow Street, the street leading to the church, painted in rainbow colors.

For a dose of nature, you can head out to the surrounding mountains, fjords, hiking trails or waterfalls such as Gufufoss and Fardagafoss. With so much to enjoy, this town remains reasonably priced, as you could spend as low as $180 per day on all expenses, including accommodation.

Cefalù, Italy

Small Towns in Europe for an Affordable Getaway Cefalu, Italy — © IgorZh / Shutterstock

If you want to experience the peak of Sicilian charm without the hefty price tag, Cefalù would be a perfect destination. This picturesque coastal town, located on the northern coast of Sicily, is set amidst a towering limestone cliff known as La Rocca and the deep blue waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Some points of interest in this small town include Cefalù Cathedral (Duomo di Cefalù), La Rocca, which has hiking trails to its top; Old Town (Centro Storico) and the sandy Lungomare Beach.

You can also relax at Cathedral Square (Piazza del Duomo), the heart of Cefalù. It is surrounded by cafes and provides a perfect view of the imposing cathedral. With its seamless blend of historical exploration and natural beauty, Cefalu remains budget-friendly than many coastal destinations in Italy. For instance, the average daily expenditure for tourists in Positano stands at around $239 and $128 in Cefalu.

Azenhas do Mar, Portugal

12 Fairytale Villages in Portugal You Have To See To Believe Azenhas do Mar — © SeanPavonePhoto / Adobe Stock

Azenhas do Mar is a stunning coastal village located in Sintra. Perched dramatically on the edge of a cliff, it features whitewashed houses with terracotta roofs cascading down to a picturesque sandy beach. The village’s unique location offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and rugged coastline. You will also like how beautiful the sunsets are from the village’s elevated position.

If not relaxing on its small beach, you can stroll along its narrow streets, hike to viewpoints and marvel at the view of the entire village and the Atlantic Ocean, or swim in the natural pool formed at the base of the cliff.

With so much to like in Azenhas do Mar, budget travelers will love how budget-friendly it is. While Portugal is largely affordable, Azenhas do Mar will let you explore even more for less.

Corfu Town, Corfu, Greece

Are you in Greece and looking for an affordable escape? Consider Corfu Town, the capital of Corfu Island. The Corfu Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site characterized by well-preserved fortresses, elegant mansions, and picturesque alleyways. When visiting, walk along the narrow streets to discover hidden squares and historic buildings.

If you are into chasing landmarks, do not miss the Old Fortress, which offers panoramic views of the sea and town; and the Spianada Square, one of the largest squares in Europe.

If you have more time, some more noteworthy highlights to explore include Mon Repos Estate, a neoclassical palace that is also the birthplace of Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh; and the Archaeological Museum of Corfu, which hosts exhibits showcasing artifacts from the island’s ancient past. The cost of living in Athens is around 19% higher than the cost of living in Corfu.

Colmar, France

Colmar, located in the Alsace region, is renowned for its fairy-tale charm, rich cultural heritage, and culinary and wine excellence. The town’s architecture seamlessly blends French and German influences, making it a visual delight that was made for Instagram. Colmar is also the birthplace of the famous sculptor Auguste Bartholdi, who designed the Statue of Liberty.

For your exploration, explore La Petite Venise (Little Venice), a scenic area featuring beautiful canals, colorful houses, and picturesque bridges reminiscent of Venice. It is a perfect place to capture memorable shots, take boat rides, or just stroll. Some more features to include in your Colmar itinerary include the Unterlinden Museum, Saint-Martin Collegiate Church, and Bartholdi Museum, which is dedicated to the life and works of Auguste Bartholdi.

Tanners’ District, which hosts beautifully restored half-timbered houses, Colmar’s Christmas markets, and the Alsace Wine Route are other highlights not to be missed.

Rye, England

Rye is a charming medieval town located in East Sussex. The small town is perched on a hill overlooking the Romney Marshes. It is known for its well-preserved historical architecture, including half-timbered houses, Georgian buildings, and medieval landmarks.

The 14th-century Rye Castle (Ypres Tower), the beautiful St Mary’s Church dating back to the 12th century, the Rye Harbour Nature Reserve, and the postcard-perfect Mermaid Street are some spots worth your time in Rye.