1. Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and affordability.

Wander through its charming streets, enjoy delicious pastries, and take in stunning views from its many miradouros (viewpoints).

The city’s trams, particularly Tram 28, offer a scenic and budget-friendly way to explore.

Don’t miss the historic neighborhoods of Alfama and Bairro Alto, and be sure to try some authentic pastéis de nata. And, of course, it’s very cheap to visit!

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2. Krakow, Poland

I came back from Krakow a few months ago, and trust me, a trip there is totally worth it!

Krakow is rich in history and culture, and it’s much more affordable than many Western European cities.

Explore the historic Old Town, with its medieval architecture and the beautiful Main Market Square.

Visit the impressive Wawel Castle and the Gothic St. Mary’s Basilica. For a more somber experience, take a day trip to Auschwitz-Birkenau. It’s something I will never forget.

The city also comes alive during the Christmas season with its festive markets, and even during the week it offer a great nightlife.

Krakow is very affordable, so it definitely deserves a place in the top low-cost European trips!

Where To Stay

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3. Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is one of Europe’s most beautiful cities, and it’s surprisingly affordable!

Enjoy the thermal baths, like the Széchenyi and Gellért Baths, which are perfect for relaxation.

Explore historic sites such as Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion, and the stunning Parliament Building.

Take a cruise on the Danube River for breathtaking views of the city’s skyline, especially at night.

This affordable city offers so many things to do, so make sure to add it to your list of European travel budget!

Where To Stay

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4. Sofia, Bulgaria

Sofia is one of the hidden gems of Europe.

It’s a city full of history, beautiful churches like the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, and lively markets.

Visit the ancient Serdica ruins and the National Historical Museum. Vitosha Mountain, just outside the city, offers great hiking opportunities.

Plus, it’s incredibly affordable compared to other European capitals!

Where To Stay

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What To Do

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5. Riga, Latvia

Riga, the capital of Latvia, offers a rich cultural experience with its stunning Art Nouveau architecture and charming Old Town.

Wander through the cobbled streets, visit the Riga Central Market, and explore the Latvian Ethnographic Open-Air Museum.

The city’s vibrant nightlife and cozy cafes are perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.

Riga’s winter charm is undeniable, especially during the holiday season with its Christmas markets and festive lights. You should definitely add it to your list of low-cost travels!

Where To Stay

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6. Bucharest, Romania

Bucharest is a city of contrasts, with its mix of grand historical buildings and Communist-era architecture.

Visit the enormous Palace of the Parliament, one of the largest administrative buildings in the world.

Relax in the beautiful Herăstrău Park or explore the charming Lipscani district with its trendy cafes and vibrant nightlife.

The festive atmosphere in December is especially magical, with Christmas lights and markets adding to the charm. And, it deserves its place in the top budget-friendly European countries!

Where To Stay

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7. Vilnius, Lithuania

Vilnius, with its Baroque architecture and vibrant cultural scene, is a fantastic budget destination.

Explore the medieval Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, visit the unique Užupis district, an area known for its artistic community, and climb Gediminas Tower for panoramic views of the city.

Fall and winter bring a cozy charm to Vilnius, with its narrow streets and warm, welcoming cafes.

Best of all, Vilnius offers all of this at a very affordable price, making it perfect for a low-budget trip!

Where To Stay

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8. Tirana, Albania

Tirana, the capital of Albania, is a vibrant and increasingly popular destination for budget travelers.

The city is known for its colorful buildings, lively atmosphere, and friendly locals.

Explore Skanderbeg Square, the heart of the city, and take a stroll through the Blloku district, which was once a restricted area for the communist elite but is now a bustling hub of cafes, restaurants, and nightlife.

Don’t miss the Dajti Ekspres cable car ride for stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains.

I will be travelling to Albania soon, so if you’re looking for more tips on this budget-friendly destination, stay tuned!

Where To Stay

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Final Thoughts

Traveling on a budget is easier than you might think with a bit of smart planning and flexibility.

These European destinations offer incredible experiences without draining your bank account.

From historic sites to vibrant nightlife, you can enjoy a rich travel experience without spending a fortune.

Are you ready to start planning your next holiday?!

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