Traveling through Europe doesn’t have to mean blowing your budget on $12 croissants and $300 hotel rooms. Where you go in Europe matters just as much as when you go—and there are plenty of countries where your money stretches surprisingly far.

If you’re willing to look beyond the obvious big-ticket destinations, these are some of the cheapest countries to visit in Europe, especially if you care about good food, walkable cities, and places that still feel authentic. Among these hidden gems, you’ll find the best cities for firsttime travelers that offer unique experiences and vibrant cultures. Exploring these lesser-known locations allows you to immerse yourself in local traditions while avoiding the crowded tourist hotspots. Each city provides its own charm, making your journey both memorable and enriching.

Plus you can visit Europe and save up for the big ticket places like Paris, Rome, or Amsterdam.

Most travelers can expect to spend between $45–$100 per day in these countries, depending on travel style and season.

Quick picks:

• Cheapest overall: Albania
• Cheapest for food: Bosnia & Herzegovina
• Cheapest for beaches: Bulgaria
• Cheapest for cities: Hungary
• Cheapest for first-time Europe trip: Portugal

Portugal (Best First Time to Europe)

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Average daily cost: $70–$100 per person

This typically covers:

• €8–€12 meals

• Affordable public transportation

• Mid-range hotels or apartments outside peak summer

Portugal is one of the rare Western European countries where prices still feel reasonable without sacrificing experience.

Portugal consistently tops my list for value. Food is affordable, public transportation is easy, and accommodations are still reasonable—especially outside peak summer. Plus flights to Portugal continue to be some of the cheapest from the US to Europe. It is one of the cheapest desitinations.

The beautiful thing about Portugal is that it is on many people’s bucket lists and there is still value to be had there. I am always surprised with how inexpensive it is.

• A sit-down meal can easily be under €10

• Trains and trams are budget-friendly

• Cities like Lisbon and Porto are perfect for slow, affordable travel

Portugal is one of those places where you don’t feel like you’re “cutting corners” to save money—it just naturally costs less.

Hungary (Best Cheap European City Destination)

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Average daily cost: $60–$90 per person

Expect:

• $5–$10 sit-down meals

• Very inexpensive public transportation

• Affordable central accommodations in Budapest

Once you’re there, Hungary is one of the best value cities in Europe.

Hungary is incredibly budget-friendly, especially if you base yourself in Budapest. The city is beautiful, easy to navigate, and full of things that feel expensive but aren’t.

• Thermal baths for a fraction of spa prices elsewhere

• Affordable public transportation

• Hearty meals that will cost between $5-$10 per person, even at nice sit down spots.

It’s one of the best “bang for your buck” cities in Europe. The only catch is the flights are generaly higher to places like Budapest, so make sure to check out my best hacks to getting an inexpensive flight

Poland (Best Large Cities Cheap Vacation)

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Average daily cost: $65–$95 per person

This includes:

• $50–$90 hotels or apartments

• Hearty meals for under $10

• Affordable attractions and historic sites

Poland is ideal for longer stays where costs really add up.

Poland is a fantastic option if you want history, culture, and great food—without Western Europe prices.

Cities like Kraków and Warsaw offer:

• Affordable hotels and apartments – $50-$90 per night

• Inexpensive but filling meals (pierogi lovers, this one’s for you)

• Walkable historic centers

Poland is similar in style to many other European countries and there is no shortage of things to see and do there, but still very affordable, especially for longer stays.

Be aware that public transportation isn’t as robust as you will find in some other spots on this list, so you will want to rent a car.

Romania (Best Inexpensive Hotels)

So you can visit Transylvania, Sibiu, and Brosov without the crowds and at a low price.

• A sit down restaruant costs around $7 per person.

• Inexpensive transportation

• Castles, mountains, and medieval towns without the crowds

If you want somewhere that still feels a little under-the-radar, Romania is a great pick.

Bulgaria (Best Budget Beach Destination in Europe)

Average daily cost: $45–$70 per person

This usually covers:

• Inexpensive meals and groceries

• Affordable hotels in central locations

• Low attraction and transit costs

Bulgaria is consistently one of the cheapest countries to visit in Europe overall.

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Bulgaria is one of the cheapest countries in Europe—and it shows in the best way possible. While Bulgaria might not be on your radar yet, it is a beautiful country with charming medieval villages, the Black Sea, and the capital Sofia.

Sophia has been ruled by the Roman Empire, the Byzantine Empire, and the Ottoman Empire, and you can see the remains of each civilization there. It is a fascinating city to expore.

• Very low food and lodging costs

• Beautiful old towns like Plovdiv

• Easy access to mountains and the Black Sea

You can eat well, stay central, and still spend less than you would in most Western European cities.

Albania (Cheapest Country in Europe for Beaches + Value)

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• Affordable beach towns along the Albanian Riviera

• Inexpensive meals and lodging

• Fewer crowds and a slower pace

Cities like Sarandë and Berat are perfect if you want scenic views without luxury pricing.

Bosnia & Herzegovina (Cheapest Charming Towns)

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This is one of those destinations that stays with you. Bosnia & Herzegovina is affordable, moving, and incredibly welcoming.

• Budget accommodations in historic towns

• Delicious, inexpensive food

• Powerful history in places like Sarajevo and Mostar

It’s a destination that feels meaningful and budget-conscious.

How Cheap Is Europe Right Now?

• Budget countries: $40–$80/day
• Mid-range: $80–$150/day
• Expensive: $150+

Cheapest Countries in Europe by Month

Want to make your inexpensive European Vacation even less expensive? Try visiting these during their slow season. Here are the best times to visit.

• January: Hungary, Poland
• May: Portugal, Greece
• September: Croatia, Albania

Cheap Doesn’t Mean “Less Than”

Some of my favorite European trips have been to the cheapest countries—not the most expensive ones. Lower prices often mean fewer crowds, more local experiences, and the freedom to slow down without watching every euro.

If you’re flexible on destination and open to exploring places that aren’t constantly trending on social media, Europe can be far more affordable than most people expect.