Last Updated: January 3, 2024
If you’re wondering whether you can do a city getaway on a budget, we’re here to introduce you to the 12 cheapest cities to visit in Europe. Sure, there are a few cities in Europe that are on the expensive side but thankfully, there are many that can offer unforgettable experiences without having to dig deep into your pocket. Whether it is architecture, cuisine, activities, or wellness that you’re after, we’re sure that you’ll find it at one of the cities below.
We all need an escape from our busy life and the best way to do that is to break the routine and go on an exciting holiday that will lift our spirits. Below we will reveal our most favorite cheapest cities to visit in Europe. Some of the recommendations below of the cheapest places to visit in Europe you’ve heard of them before, others, are unique hidden gems, undiscovered yet by the masses.
Are you ready? Let’s dive in and discover the most unbeatable cheapest cities to visit in Europe.
LIST OF 12 CHEAPEST CITIES TO VISIT IN EUROPE THIS YEAR
ATHENS, GREECE
Now, I know what you’re thinking, how can a capital city be cheap? The truth is that many places in the center of Athens are a bit pricey but there are many other areas that offer inexpensive options to eat, drink, and fun things to do. Athens is an amazing city to visit if you’re looking for an economical holiday; it truly is one of the cheapest cities to visit in Europe. Although Athens is a big city, getting around is easy and hustle-free due to its reliable public transport. This beautiful city packs in so many fascinating and fun things to do; remarkable historical sites, mouth-watering food, and an awesome shopping scene.
The best way to save money during your visit to Athens is to use public transport for getting around and eating at local tavernas. Be sure to check for budget Airbnb’s in the areas close to the city center; Kaisariani, Vyronas, and Gazi. Avoid the areas of Omonoia and Exarcheia.
LIMASSOL, CYPRUS
Cyprus is a fantastic option if you’re looking for the cheapest cities to visit in Europe. This wonderful island offers warm temperatures all-year-round and gorgeous beaches. That’s not all, Cypriot food is influenced by Greek, Turkish and Arabic cuisine, so Cyprus is a heaven for foodies. What’s best, dining out in Cyprus is very cheap, especially if you choose the traditional tavernas located in the outskirts of larger cities such as Limassol and Nicosia. As far as cheap places to visit in Europe go, this is definitely one of the best!
Don’t miss out on your chance to try grilled halloumi cheese, koupepia (stuffed vine leaves), and bourekia (sweet pie stuffed with soft cheese).
BUDAPEST, HUNGARY
I have the fondest memories from Budapest. We visited a few years ago during the winter and I instantly fell in love with the city. If I’m being honest, the best time to visit Budapest is during the summer when the warm temperatures allow for fun activities outdoors and a plethora of events. Hungary has its own currency, so you can benefit from the currency exchange and enjoy to the fullest this amazing city on a budget. You can see now why it is one of the cheapest places to visit in Europe.
The best way to explore Budapest is on foot. Start your day early and head towards Charles Bridge that crosses the Danube River. Walk along the river banks and take in the awe-striking architecture of the imposing Budapest parliament. This is the crowning jewel of Budapest so you don’t wanna miss it. Another fantastic attraction to not miss in Budapest is its world-famous thermal baths. Szechenyi thermal baths are the largest thermal bath complex in Europe. Budapest truly is one of the cheapest cities to visit in Europe!
GOZO, MALTA
Malta was our home for 6 years and we’re certain that you will fall in love with this beautiful country. The Maltese islands are located between Italy and North Africa and consist of three islands; Malta, Gozo, and Comino. We are here to introduce you to Maltas’ sister island, Gozo. This incredible island is a fantastic place if you’re looking for a relaxing holiday on a budget.
In Gozo, you will find some of the most stunning beaches in the country. The island has a breathtaking landscape, so don’t miss out on the opportunity to venture off the beaten path and go hiking in the countryside. Gozo is truly one of our favorite recommendations when we’re asked which are the cheapest cities to visit in Europe.
INSIDER TIP: If you want to save money, avoid visiting during the peak months, June through August when prices of the hotels and BnBs’ skyrocket. Instead, visit during the shoulder months for your chance to explore the island on a budget.
LISBON, PORTUGAL
While there are many other places in Portugal that are cheaper, we always recommend Lisbon first as this remarkable city balances perfectly great lifestyle, culture, and cuisine. Lisbon is a spectacular city and what’s best, you can easily explore it on budget. What I love the most is the romantic cobblestone alleyways with the awe-striking architecture at Alfama district which is Lisbons’ old town. From there you can also enjoy some of the best views of the city. This area is truly phenomenal. If you’re looking for the cheapest cities to visit in Europe then Lisbon is one of our top recommendations.
Like most popular cities, avoid visiting during the busy summer months and you’re guaranteed to have a cheap holiday. You can explore this gorgeous city on foot, so automatically you save a lot of money on transportation. No matter the destination, the best practice to follow if you want to dine on a budget, is to choose places where the locals eat and avoid restaurants that scream the tourist trap.
SICILY, ITALY
Italy is one of our favorite countries in the world! There are plenty of noteworthy places to visit in Italy but Sicily is always a safe bet for us. The island is big enough to offer many awesome things to see, it has dazzling beaches, great food and most importantly, you can find everything at a bargain or even for free. There are certain towns in Sicily that the prices quadruple (especially during the summer), like Taormina. However, there are plenty of places where you can find a more traditional vibe and which are quite economical so you won’t have to kiss your holiday savings goodbye.
If you’re looking to tick off as many locations as possible during your visit to Sicily, you can do so by car, train, or bus. The cheapest way to see the island, however, is either by bus or train. The small town and fisherman villages sure are wonderful. But, do also dedicate a day to explore Palermo and Catania for your chance to see some of the most remarkable historical buildings on the island.
POZNAN, POLAND
I have been visiting Poznan for the past 13 years; one can say that this is my second home. The truth is that Poznan has become rather costly with the passing of years. With that said, this beautiful city is one of our best recommendations for the cheapest cities to visit in Europe. Why? First and foremost, Poland has its own currency, which is the Polish zloty, so your money will have more worth here once you exchange it. Also, dining out is far cheaper compared to the likes of big cities in Germany and France for example.
Poznan has a fascinating history. Take a walking tour so you can learn more about the history behind the remarkable architecture of the beautiful buildings that are dotted across the city. Also, the public transport in Poznan is fast and reliable so you’ll have no problem getting around on a budget.
SEVILLA, SPAIN
Spain is always a good idea! The country is so diverse that it has no shortage of amazing places to explore. If we’re speaking of the cheapest cities to visit in Europe, then Seville is one of our best recommendations. There are plenty of reasons to fall in love with Seville. The marvelous architecture of Plaza de Espana is just one of them.
Much like everywhere in Spain, in Seville too, you can enjoy a nice meal or a drink al fresco. Pick a local cafe or a tapas bar and order a bocadillo and a warm cup of coffee. I am sure that right there and then, you’ll fall in love with Spain. Seville has a very warm climate even during the winter, so if it’s sunny, pack a light lunch and have a picnic at one of Seville’s beautiful parks. There is truly no better place to be than Seville if you’re looking for the cheapest cities to visit in Europe.
GJIROKASTER, ALBANIA
Albania shares borders with Greece, Montenegro, and North Macedonia. It is an amazing country which to this day, remains one of the most undiscovered in Europe. Gjirokaster is one of the best bargain destinations on this list that is likely still unexplored by most tourists. It may be small but this well-preserved Ottoman-era town is so picturesque that it will steal your heart. The best part of visiting a hidden gem such as Gjirokaster is that they’re inexpensive and they pack a lot to see. Gjirokaster is one of the best non-touristy places to visit in Europe at the moment.
The best time to visit Gjirokaster is during the summer, especially in July and August. Even if you visit during the high season, the prices still remain cheap, making Gjirokaster one of the cheapest cities to visit in Europe.
ISTANBUL, TURKEY
It is safe to say that Istanbul is one of the cheapest cities to visit in Europe. There are so many reasons to visit this unique city that we’ll need an entire article to include them all. Istanbul is massive; it’s one of the largest cities in the world. With that being said, you’ll have no problem navigating it on a budget, seeing that public transport and Uber are very cheap.
You will need at least 2 days in Istanbul and this will only allow you to see the most famous places in the city. However, even if you have limited time in Istanbul, don’t miss out on the opportunity to see Balat. This is one of Istanbuls’ most picturesque neighborhoods.
ZAGREB, CROATIA
If there was a prize for the most beautiful city in Croatia, then Dubrovnik would win it effortlessly. However, this article is focused on the cheapest cities to visit in Europe, and in this category, Zagreb is definitely top on our list. Zagreb is a bustling city and has one of the most elegant old towns I’ve ever seen.
The best part about Zagreb is that the main attractions are not far from each other, which makes it a great place to explore on foot. Zagrebs’ vibrant dining culture also deserves your attention, so take this opportunity to feast on local delicacies whilst in the city. We have the best memories of Zagreb and we’re very happy to include this beautiful city in the list of the cheapest cities to visit in the world.
CETINJE, MONTENEGRO
We were fortunate to have spent a few days in Cetinje during our road trip across Montenegro this summer. This wonderful town of Cetinje is located between Budva and Podgorica. Most people focus their time on Kotor and Sveti Stefan but we believe that Cetinje truly deserves your attention. Its effortless beauty is undiscovered by most vacationers who flock to the country each year. What’s best, it has managed to remain a budget holiday getaway, making this one of the cheapest cities to visit in Europe.
For an even cheaper holiday, be sure to travel by bus and check AirBnB for cheap accommodation. We found a lovely studio apartment only 5 minutes from the center of Cetinje for only 30 euros a night! Cetinje truly is one of the cheapest places to visit in Europe.
CONCLUSION ON THE 12 CHEAPEST CITIES TO VISIT IN EUROPE
Depending on your budget, you don’t need to break the bank in order to enjoy a holiday getaway in Europe. With our recommendations of the cheapest cities to visit in Europe, we have proved to you that it is possible.
Have you ever visited any of the places above? Leave a comment to let us know which of the cheapest cities to visit in Europe that we recommend, you find most intriguing.
