I know what you think: Europe is beautiful and I’d love to see it, but I can’t afford it now. It’s true that some European countries like Switzerland, Ireland, or Denmark have developed a reputation for being excessively expensive. But you’d be wrong believing that all of Europe is unkind to the wallet. At the other end of the spectrum, there are quite a few countries that are not only affordable, but also amazingly beautiful. So in this post I’m going to share with you some of my favorite cheapest countries to visit in Europe.
Table of Contents
General considerations
You may be wondering why aren’t these hidden gems as celebrated as the more expensive countries in Europe. Well for one thing, many of them lived for decades under the heavy boot of communism.
As the result, their socio-economic development was low, their infrastructure underdeveloped, and their tourism not sufficiently advertised. So not surprisingly, they rarely made the list of the best European itineraries in the past.
When planning a visit any of these inexpensive countries in Europe, you can expect to see higher prices in the big cities, especially around the city center or in the touristy areas. But the farther out you go, the more affordable things are.
Another thing to consider is the currency exchange rate (the equivalent of one US dollar in another country). With very few exceptions, the US dollar is stronger that most currencies in Europe, which is a big advantage when you travel to the respective countries.
CHEAPEST COUNTRIES TO VISIT IN NORTHEASTERN EUROPE
ESTONIA
Despite its wild nature and untouched beauty, Estonia is a very accessible country, easy to visit and modernized (there is Internet everywhere!)
The country’s history, rich culture and beautiful architecture was influenced by the the Swedes, Russians, and the Germans, who occupied the country at various times during its history.
Top Places to Visit in Estonia
No matter where you go in Estonia you will find remnants of historic sights, and old traditions and customs. The country has many islands, each with their own unique sights and cultures to share.
Estonia’s most notable city is the is Tallinn, which is also the capital of the country. Tallinn is actually one of the best preserved medieval cities in Northern Europe.
The country is also home to many beautiful castles. Narva Castle (also know as Hermann Castle) enjoys a particularly beautiful setting. The castle was built in the 13th century by the Danes as a royal residence for the Danish kings. There are many other castles that you could visit, like Paide, Helme, or Keila Castle.
If you have time, you should also visit some of Estonia’s national parks, like Lahemaa (just an hour’s drive from the capital) or Soomaa National Park – a wetland that formed as a result of glacier melt from thousands of years ago.
How Much Does a Trip to Estonia Cost?
- Currency: Euro (EUR)
- Average hotel price per night: €44
- Dinner at a local restaurant: €9 – €18
- Local Transportation per person: €1.50/day
- Average price for one week per couple: €750
LATVIA
Latvia is one of Europe’s best kept secrets, that somehow managed to slip under the radar of tourism. I absolutely loved this country, and especially its capital city, Riga.
If you are a fan of the Art Nouveau style and design, Riga’s architecture will absolutely amaze you. Despite the devastation suffered during the Second World War, there are still over 750 art nouveau buildings still intact in Riga.
Top Places to Visit in Latvia
After exploring the attractions in the Old Town Riga, you should visit the the vibrant beaches in Jurmala –– a gorgeous seaside resort located just a short 20 minute drive from the capital.
Also, don’t miss Gauja National Park, where you’ll see nature at its best: caves, cliffs and other rock formations that will make spelunkers feel in heaven here.
How Much does a Trip to Latvia Cost?
- Currency: Euro (EUR)
- Average 3-Star Hotel in Riga: €46 € per night
- Dinner at a Local Restaurant: €9 – €22
- Local transportation: €3/day
- Average price for a one week vacation per couple: €850
LITHUANIA
The fact that Lithuania doesn’t enjoy more popularity among the European countries can only be explained by the fact that people don’t know much about it. The country has plenty of attractions, but much like its fellow Baltic States Latvia and Estonia, Lithuania has only opened up to international tourism in the last few decades.
Top Places to Visit in Lithuania
Outside Vilnius, the country’s capital, the highlight of Lithuania’s attractions for tourists is most likely the city of Siauliai, with its legendary Hill of Crosses.
But if you are a nature lover, you’ll probably appreciate the Lithuania’s stunning coastline more. Especially the ravishingly beautiful sand dunes of Curonian Spit, a true natural wonder!
How much does a trip to Lithuania cost?
- Currency: Euro (EUR)
- Average 3-Star Hotel in Vilnius: €39 – €46 per night
- Dinner at a Local Restaurant: €10 – €21/person
- Local transportation: €1.50/day
- Average price for a one week vacation per couple: €620 ($739)
CHEAPEST COUNTRIES TO VISIT IN SOUTHEASTERN EUROPE
GREECE
With its turquoise beaches, sunburned ruins and luxury yachts, Greece may seem like one of the most expensive destinations in Europe, but it’s not. Depending on what part you visit, Greece can be really cheap. Of course visiting Athens, Santorini, or Mykonos can a little more expensive than taking a road trip in the Peloponnese. But overall, Greece is one of the most affordable countries to visit in Europe.
Top Places to Visit in Greece
Greece is one of the most romantic destinations in Europe. With thousands of islands throughout the Aegean and Ionian seas, a plethora of ancient ruins, sunny beaches, whitewashed villages, and tasty cuisine, it’s hard to get it wrong no matter where you go in Greece!
After visiting Athens, which is one of the world’s most fascinating cities, you should go island hopping. There are countless beautiful and exotic islands to visit in Greece, like Santorini, Ios, Patmos, or Mykonos, just to name a few.
How much does a trip to Greece cost?
- Currency: Euro (EUR)
- Average hostel room per night: €12
- Average 3-star hotel in Athens per night: €38
- Dinner at a local restaurant: €16 – 24
- Local transportation: €8/day
- Average price for a one week vacation per couple: $€850 ($1015)
TURKEY
Turkey’s fascinating history, engaging culture and delicious food precede its reputation. Above all else, the country’s friendly people and low prices all across the board, make Turkey one of the most desirable and affordable destinations in Europe.
Top Places to Visit in Turkey
When visiting the European portion of Turkey, you absolutely must spend at least 3 days in Istanbul. Be sure to visit the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar, and Chora Church while visiting the city –– and that just to scratches the surface!
READ NEXT: Where to Eat in Istanbul Without Getting Ripped Off
Turkey has attractions galore, whether you want to explore ruins such as Ephesus, soak in the thermal pools of Pamukkale, or see some of the world’s most surreal panoramas in Cappadocia.
How much does a trip to Turkey cost?
- Currency: Turkish Lira (TRY)
- Average 3-Star Hotel in Istanbul: $33 – $46 /night
- Dinner at a Local Restaurant: $10 – $18/person
- Local transportation: $0.75 – $1.50/day
- Average price for a one week vacation per couple: $785
ROMANIA
Romania is a country in Eastern Europe that once used to be my home. So I may be a little biased towards it, but I believe there are many reasons to visit Romania. It’s a very welcoming country, easy to visit, with beautiful scenery, old medieval towns, and an amazing cuisine.
It is also one of the cheapest countries to visit in Europe. Especially if you’re heading to Bucovina to explore its famous painted monasteries and untouched countryside. But even if you choose to visit its most popular destinations, like the castles and fortresses in Transylvania, or the medieval towns of Sibiu, Târgu Mures, or Sighisoara, Romania is still very affordable.
READ NEXT: 10 Authentic Souvenirs You Should Buy in Romania
Top Places to Visit in Romania
There is a great abundance of unique places to visit in Romania, like the Transfagarasan highway, or the Mocanita, the last steam forestry train in Europe.
Another beautiful place to visit in Romania the beautiful Danube Delta, Europe’s largest and best preserved delta.
How much does a trip to Romania cost?
- Currency: Leu (RON)
- Average 3-star hotel in Bucharest: $39
- Dinner at a local restaurant: $9 – $14
- Local transportation per person: $4.30/day
- Average price for a one week vacation per couple: $875
BULGARIA
Bulgaria has come a long way since the collapse of communism, but it’s not my favorite country in Europe (although it’s arguably the cheapest to visit!) Sofia, the capital city, is lined with communist multi-story apartment buildings, although a few chic cafés and skinny skyscrapers pop up here and there.
But while Sofia may lack in the urban aspects compared with other European cities, finding free high-speed Internet on every street corner, makes cities like Paris and Rome look like little babies!
Top Places to Visit in Bulgaria
There are however a few interesting places to visit in Bulgaria, which will make your trip worthwhile. The country is famous for its long, sandy beaches with glitzy resorts, like the Sunny Beach, or Golden Sands in Varna, where tourists flock every summer. In fact, one of the best things to do in Bulgaria is visiting the beaches.
There are also many traditional fishing villages, and historical sites worth visiting along the Black Sea coast, like the historic town of Nessebar, which dates back to antiquity when it was founded as a Thracian settlement. A stroll on its cobblestone streets will bring you to the remnants of some 40 brick churches, dating back to the 5th century.
Another city worth visiting is Plovdiv which was voted one of the European capitals of culture in 2019. Its Old Town offers arguably the best preserved collection of traditional architecture anywhere in southeastern Europe.
How much does a trip to Bulgaria cost?
- Currency: Lev (BGN).
- Average 3-star hotel room in Sofia: $31
- Dinner at a local restaurant: $8 – $12
- Local transportation: $2.40/day
- Average price for a one week vacation per couple: $750
MONTENEGRO
Another very affordable country in Southeastern Europe is Montenegro. A remnant of the former Yugoslavia, Montenegro emerged as a leisure destination only after gaining its independence, in 2006, and is today the place to go to the Adriatic.
Top Places to Visit in Montenegro
Montenegro is in my opinion the most scenic country in the Balkans, packed with irresistible medieval towns, rugged mountains and dramatic coastlines. The country’s most notable town is undoubtedly Kotor, famous for its beautiful landmarks, nostalgic atmosphere and breathtaking views of the Bay of Kotor. But there are many other small towns and villages worth visiting along the coast of Montenegro. Like Sveti Stefan, Budva and Perast, just to name a few.
But the Adriatic coast is not the only spectacular place in Montenegro. Just a little more inland, on the border with Bosnia, lies the jaw-dropping Tara River Canyon, an ideal place for white-water rafting or kayaking in summer.
How much does it cost to visit Montenegro?
- Currency: Euro (EUR)
- Average 3-star hotel room in Old Town Kotor: $39
- Dinner at a local restaurant: $10 – $14
- Local transportation: $10-$15/day (between towns)
- Average price for a one week vacation per couple: $958
CHEAPEST COUNTRIES TO VIST IN CENTRAL EUROPE
HUNGARY
Hungary is a small country in Central Europe, mostly known for its charming capital ––Budapest–– but also for its mouth-watering food, fancy Hungarian wines and friendly people. The country is filled with a lot of unspoiled natural beauty, which remains quite often undiscovered.
Top Places to Visit in Hungary
Like everybody else who heads to Hungary, you’ll want to spend at least a few days in Budapest, exploring its beautiful Old Town attractions, fantastic restaurants, and amazing cultural venues. Chances are you’ll never want to leave Budapest, once you discover its charm and friendly atmosphere. From rooftop bars and decadent baths, to jam-packed discos and quirky pubs, Budapest has an abundance of attractions to lure you in and keep you busy.
Budapest is beautiful even in winter, so if you want to save even more money you should visit Hungary during the shoulder season, which is actually the best time to travel to Europe.
READ NEXT: Budapest Travel Tips and Information First Time Visitors
But make sure you don’t leave Hungary before you visit some its unspoiled countryside. Or at least take a few short day trips around Budapest to see Eger, Szentendre, and Lake Balaton.
How much does a trip to Hungary cost?
- Currency: Forint (HUF)
- Average 3-star hotel room in Budapest: $44
- Dinner at a local restaurant: $18 – $21
- Local transportation: $5.50/day
- Average price for a one week vacation per couple: $958
CZECH REPUBLIC
Another inexpensive and underrated destination in Central Europe is the Czech Republic. This small country is like fairytale: dotted with castles, medieval towns, beautiful mountains, ancient ruins, and world-class wineries.
When you speak about the Czech Republic, most people automatically think of Prague, which is definitely a gem, but it’s also the most expensive city in the country. Overall however, the Czech Republic is considered one of the cheapest countries to visit in Europe.
Top Places to Visit in the Czech Republic
If you are visiting Czechia, go beyond Prague and you’ll discover to some of the most beautiful and interesting destinations you’ll ever experience! Head to the South Bohemian Region to experience the medieval town of Český Krumlov, visit the Bone Church in Kutná Hora, and definitely stop in Pilsen, the birthplace of the famous Pilsner beer.
How much does a trip to the Czech Republic cost?
- Currency: Czech Koruna (CZK)
- Average 3-Star Hotel in Prague: $58 per night
- Dinner at a Local Restaurant: $7 to $15 per person
- Local transportation in Prague: $5/day
- Average price for a one week vacation per couple: Kč27,234 ($1,140)
POLAND
Poland is one of the most beautiful countries in Europe, rich in culture, with extraordinary historic sites and scenic landscapes. The country has a large collection of very well preserved medieval cities, like Krakow, Poznanan, Wroclaw and Gdansk, each of which are worth visiting.
Top places to visit in Poland
One important landmark not to miss is in Poland the Tatra National Park, located in south-central part of the country. The park is breathtakingly beautiful, with numerous rock formations, over 650 caves and several alpine lakes and waterfalls.
Also worth visiting is the concentration camp at Auschwitz-Birkenau, a sad reminder of the atrocities of WWII, and Wieliczka Salt Mine, a huge labyrinth of salt that contains salt sculptures created by miners.
How much does a trip to Poland cost?
- Currency: Zloty (PLN)
- Average 3-star hotel in Warsaw: $53
- Dinner at a local restaurant: $11 – $16
- Local transportation: $4.50/day
- Average price for a one week vacation per couple: $936
CROATIA
Croatia is lovely! The food is great, the weather is good and the scenery is even better. The prices are very reasonably also, especially if you don’t travel there in summer. Croatia is definitely more expensive than some of the other countries on this list, however, it won’t burn a hole in your pocket if you find some ways to cut costs.
Top Places to Visit in Croatia
There are countless beautiful places to visit in Croatia. The best way to visit the country is to rent a car and take a road trip. You can explore the Dalmatian Coast, visit Plitvice Lakes, and stop in all the important cities along the coast, like Dubrovnik, Split, Pula, Zadar and Trogir.
How much does a trip to Croatia cost?
- Currency: Euro (EUR)
- Average 3-star hotel: $45 –$60
- Dinner at a local restaurant: $15-$20
- Transportation between cities: $10 – $15 per journey
- Car rental: $25 – $30 per day
- Average price for a week vacation for a couple: $1,100 (€921)
SLOVENIA
This beautiful country located on the sunny side of the Alps is a remarkable and inexpensive place to travel in Europe. From dramatic gorges, stunning river valleys and hidden waterfalls, to remote villages, attracting towns and grandiose castle, Slovenia falls short on nothing!
Top Places to Visit in Slovenia
The list of its scenic places to visit in Slovenia is quite long. You should start with its colorful capital –Ljubljana– which is one of the best European cities to visit in December. Then take a day trip to Lake Bled, just an hour away from the city.
Also worth visiting are the towns of Maribor where you can see the oldest vine in the world (more than 450 years) and Postojna, known for spectacular caves which have ceilings nearly 50 meters (150 feet) high.
How much does a trip to Slovenia cost?
- Currency: Euro (EUR)
- Average 3-star hotel room in Ljubljana: $38-$40/night
- Dinner at a local restaurant: $19 – $23
- Local transportation (bus, train or car): $16/day
- Average price for a one week vacation per couple: $930
CHEAPEST COUNTRIES TO VISIT IN WESTERN EUROPE
PORTUGAL
Portugal is a stunningly beautiful country that often gets missed due to its more luxurious (and expensive) neighboring countries like France, or Italy. Lately however, Portugal started getting a lot of public attention, as a fun and energetic destination. And that’s also because Portugal is one of the very few Western European countries that you can still visit on a budget.
Top Places to Visit in Portugal
From sunny weather, historic cities, breath-taking beaches, good food, and dramatic landscapes, Portugal has it all! The most popular city that most tourists visit is Lisbon, Portugal picture-perfect capital.
Only a short train ride from Lisbon, you should visit Sintra, a beautiful historic town filled with pastel-colored villas and palaces set in a forested terrain. Also, don’t miss the medieval city of Portos with its 14th century walls, narrow winding streets, colorful picturesque houses.
While in Portugal, you should visit the golden beaches of Algarve, which are country’s main tourist magnet, and also the rest of the coast, which is dotted with secluded coves.
How much does a trip to Portugal cost?
- Currency: Euro (EUR)
- Average 3-star hotel room in Lisbon: $66/night
- Dinner at a local restaurant: $18 – $28
- Local transportation in the country (bus, train or car): $17.50/day
- Average price for a one week vacation per couple: $1,350 (€1,128)
SPAIN
One of the Western European options list you’ll want to consider Spain, although it won’t be as cheap as other countries in Europe, like the Balkans, or the Baltics. While popular cities like Barcelona and Madrid aren’t exactly cheap, there are many other affordable spots throughout the country. Like Toledo, Valencia, or Seville, which is home to one of the most stunning cathedrals in the world.
TIP: The best places to stay when visiting Spain are the Paradores, a chain of very affordable hotels located in historic buildings such as fortresses, monasteries, or castles.
Top Places to Visit in Spain
In addition to the beautiful cities named above, one of the must-see places in Spain is the southernmost part of Costa Brava, in the region of Catalonia. This beautiful region with rocky coves, serene beaches, and tranquil villages, like Tossa de Mar, deserves a top spot on any Europe bucket list.
How much does a trip to Spain cost?
- Currency: Euro (EUR)
- Average 3-star hotel room in Lisbon: $78/night
- Dinner at a local restaurant: $18 – $26
- Local transportation in the city: $2.50/day
- Average price for a one week vacation per couple: $1,350 (€1,128)
A Final Word
One thing to be keep in mind when looking at this list, is that the popularity of these beautiful countries is raising fast. After the collapse of Communism in Europe, their tourist industry started developing fast and they began catching up with their neighboring competitors.
Many of these once underestimated destinations are no longer as underpriced as they used to be 10-15 years ago. So in a near future, you’ll be seeing higher prices almost everywhere in Europe. My advice would be to include these beautiful destinations in your travel plans while they are still the cheapest countries to visit in Europe.
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Lonna Royy
Europe offers a diverse range of affordable yet stunning destinations, debunking the myth that the entire continent is expensive. Countries like Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania showcase rich history, beautiful landscapes, and budget-friendly options. The hidden gems of Southeastern Europe, including Greece and Turkey, boast turquoise beaches, ancient ruins, and friendly prices. Romania, Bulgaria, and Montenegro, often overlooked, offer picturesque landscapes and cultural richness without breaking the bank.
Central Europe, with Hungary, Czech Republic, Poland, and Croatia, features charming cities, historic sites, and natural beauty at reasonable costs. Slovenia, with its dramatic gorges and hidden waterfalls, stands out as an inexpensive gem. Even in Western Europe, Portugal shines as an affordable yet captivating destination.
Pavan
we covered about 6 countries in Europe and were really proud that we covered most countries in a short time, but after checking this list it feels like we have missed a great deal of exploring Europe. Will definitely check these countries the next time we visit Europe.
Anda
I’m headed back to one of them myself soon, hahaha!
Pranitaa
Great list of European countries to enjoy the rich history, culture along with architectural and natural wonders! While each of the country listed in the post is fabulous, I particularly am attracted towards Greece. It’s my cherished dream to explore this country. Other than this, I would also love to visit Portugal and Spain. Thanks for posting this list of beautiful countries in Europe that won’t break the bank account.
Raksha
Wow this post made me realise how much of Europe I have not seen. I have been to Romania, Bulgaria and Portugal in this list. Other than those I still have so many other countries to visit. My friend and I had planned Greece and Turkey a long time ago but unfortunately we had to cancel our plans. I will keep these in mind for my next travel to Europe.
Anda
Greece and Turkey are actually two of the more expensive countries on this list. If you are looking for a really inexpensive country, you should try Romania, or Slovenia. They are also unbelievably beautiful.
Amrita
Well, Europe has always been somewhat of an expensive place for us. However, last year we were planning to visit Turkey and a few countries in Eastern Europe and then Covid happened! We had chalked out less expensive places and made plans for a good trip. So this post is kind of a reminder that I have to pick up that plan sometime soon. And may be add a few more countries you mentioned in my list. 🙂
Anda
Hopefully this travel ban will be soon lifted. I can hardly wait to return to Europe myself.
Ambica Gulati
I want to take an year off and explore all the countries in one go! One week doesn’t seem to do justice to this beautiful continent. I really hope, once this COVID-19 settles down, I can plan to find work and visit these countries.
Anda
Oh, one week in Europe is way too little, Ambica.
Chloe Beaver
I love this blog! The other great thing about visiting these cheaper European countries is that they tend to have fewer tourists, giving you an even more authentic experience. I’ve always wanted to visit Montenegro and Turkey!
Anda
Hope you’ll visit these countries, Chloe.
Ummi Nadrah
Coming from Southeast Asia, I always find Europe to be at least 4 – 5 times more expensive than what I’m used to back home. But some things are cheaper, like fruits, cheese, and wine, so I tend to binge on those when I come visit. Hehe. From this list, I’ve been to the Baltic States, Poland, Bulgaria, Portugal, Spain, Greece, and the Czech Republic. Would love to check out the rest. My current favorite is Greece. Great food at affordable price.
Anda
Wow, you visited quite a few countries in Europe, Ummi. I agree with you, Greece is one of my top favorite countries in Europe too.
Shreya Saha
This list is super interesting. I would really want to visit Lithuania, Estonia and Latvia. Even Hungary, Czech and Croatia sounds intimidating. I did not know Greece and Turkey are cheaper though.
Anda
They are a little more expensive than Bulgaria, or Romania, but still cheaper that most Western European countries, Shreya.
Danik
Just looking at this list, and the Baltics are at the top of the post. Great places to visit. However, not really cheap to visit anymore. I have property in Riga, Latvia and been going to the country since 2005, got married there, lived there, worked there etc. Unfortunately, since Latvia (as well as Estonia, Lithuania and have also seen this in Slovakia and Slovenia), when they joined the Euro currency many years ago, everything price wise went up. I used to go out all the time to restaurants, now I have to budget and most nights I will go to the supermarket and cook at my home there. I would say the Baltics are going to be the new Scandinavian countries in a few years time when it comes to costs for a visit (well, most of the buildings and companies in the country are owned by Nordic banks). 😀 I am not being funny, but its cheaper to visit Greece and Portugal than the Baltics now, thats how crazy it is, but if planned well, the countries can be done on the cheap. 😀
I don’t want to put off people visiting the Baltic’s by the way, its an amazing place! Thats my moan over. 😀 But personally, in the last year before Covid-19 came along, I went to Czechia, Poland and Ukraine…they are the cheapest for me in Europe. 🙂
Anda
I agree with you Danik: some of the countries on this list are cheaper than other. However, when you compare them with the majority of the Western European countries, they come ahead. As I also mention in this post, the capital cities of the Baltics are indeed more expensive, but the rest of the country is not. Besides, keep in mind that for people visit from the U.S., the Baltics are not so expensive.
Angela
I have been to several of these countries but have a lot of the others still on my list especially Montenegro and Lithuania. A great post to compare travel costs once in these countries. Often Eastern European countries are overlooked which is a shame as they are incredible – Estonia was one of my all time favourite European trips.
Anda
You are right about the Eastern European countries being overlooked.
Iuliana Marchian
I am so happy to see that you have included my country, Romania, on this list! Cost of life here is low, indeed, compared to Western Europe, but if you travel and want to visit museum (especially take photos – you have to pay extra ticket for this throughout Romania), it is not so cheap anymore – at least for us, Romanians. Romanians usually go to Bulgaria because it is cheaper and higher quality, whereas I found very cheap to travel to Albania, Kosovo, North Macedonia, and Serbia – in one month I hardly spent 600 euros there.
Anda
I’m yet to visit Macedonia and Albania, but I’ve heard they are also very beautiful. As for Romania, I was born and raised there too, but when coming there from the USA everything seems really cheap!
Rob + Ann @TravelLatte
What a fantastic post, Anda! Conveniently, many of the places we want to visit most are right in this list! And you have us thinking of some new spots that we hadn’t really considered as heavily. Can’t wait to get out exploring Europe again!
Anda
Me too, Rob. I can hardly wait to go back to Europe and see my friends and relatives.
Roy Stevenson
Nice summary, Anda. I’ll be using this to plan my next European gig when we get the all-clear to travel again. Thank you!
Anda
You are welcome, Roy. Hope we’ll all be able to travel again soon.