Let’s be real: traveling through Europe sounds dreamy until your bank account wakes you up. But what if I told you that you can explore castles, sip espresso in ancient squares, and hike mountain peaks without draining your savings? That’s exactly what this post is about—real, accessible, cheap places to travel in Europe that feel like five-star adventures (without the five-star cost).
I’ve explored many of these cities myself and others have been on my watchlist forever, so trust me when I say: this isn’t a list of generic tourist traps. It’s a handpicked guide of underrated gems where your money stretches further, and the vibes are unforgettable.
1. Plovdiv, Bulgaria
Why it’s cheap: Low cost of living, budget-friendly hostels, and delicious meals for under €5.
I stumbled into Plovdiv on a backpacking trip and ended up staying three extra days. The city blends Roman ruins, street art, and trendy cafés like Cat & Mouse in the colorful Kapana Creative District. And the best part? You’ll spend less than €25 a day if you’re mindful.
Top things to do:
- Explore the Ancient Roman Theatre
- Walk the cobbled lanes of Old Town Plovdiv
- Grab a local beer at Kamenitza Brewery
Where to stay: Hostel Old Plovdiv – vintage vibes and top location.
2. Riga, Latvia
Why it’s cheap: Incredible deals on food, lodging, and attractions—even in the city center.
Latvia’s charming capital, Riga, has a mix of medieval towers, bohemian bars, and buzzing weekend markets like the Riga Central Market. The nightlife is fantastic and surprisingly affordable. You can grab a craft beer at Labietis for under €3.
Top things to do:
- Climb the tower of St. Peter’s Church for panoramic views
- Wander through the Art Nouveau District
- Cruise along the Daugava River
Where to stay: Cinnamon Sally Backpackers Hostel – social, central, and cozy.
3. Kaunas, Lithuania
Why it’s cheap: Low travel costs, creative food scene, and loads of free cultural events.
Kaunas is Lithuania’s cool younger sibling—quirky, artsy, and delightfully walkable. Grab coffee at Spurginė and admire the street art murals all over the city, especially in the Yard Gallery.
Top things to do:
- Visit the Ninth Fort Museum
- Walk across the Aleksotas Hill Funicular
- Chill at Confluence Park
Where to stay: The Monk’s Bunk – cozy and right in the heart of downtown.
4. Tirana, Albania
Why it’s cheap: Ridiculously cheap meals, transport, and hotels.
Colorful buildings, buzzing energy, and a history that’s as intriguing as it is complex—that’s Tirana. Explore Communist-era museums like Bunk’Art 1, sip Turkish-style coffee in Blloku, and take a cheap cable car up Dajti Mountain for epic views.
Top things to do:
- Walk around Skanderbeg Square
- Visit the Et’hem Bey Mosque
- People-watch at Grand Park of Tirana
Where to stay: Trip’n Hostel – artsy, social, and central.
5. Porto, Portugal
Why it’s cheap: Affordable food, cheap flights, and budget lodging.
If Lisbon is the extroverted sibling, Porto is the moody, romantic one. Walk the Dom Luís I Bridge, take in the Ribeira District, and get lost inside Livraria Lello—yep, the Harry Potter bookshop.
Top things to do:
- Tour a Port wine cellar
- Take a Douro River cruise
- Enjoy a francesinha at Café Santiago
Where to stay: Gallery Hostel Porto – artsy, comfy, and local.
6. Zagreb, Croatia
Why it’s cheap: Great local prices, even in peak season.
Zagreb surprised me in all the right ways. It’s walkable, filled with museums like the quirky Museum of Broken Relationships, and packed with summer street festivals. You’ll spend less than €30 a day if you plan smart.
Top things to do:
- Wander around Ban Jelačić Square
- Ride the Zagreb Funicular
- Visit Dolac Market
Where to stay: Swanky Mint Hostel – pool, vibes, and close to everything.
7. Brașov, Romania
Why it’s cheap: Eastern Europe value with fairytale aesthetics.
Brașov looks straight out of a storybook—pastel houses, cobbled lanes, and Gothic spires. It’s also the jumping-off point for exploring Bran Castle, aka Dracula’s castle.
Top things to do:
- Explore Council Square (Piața Sfatului)
- Hike up Tâmpa Mountain
- Visit the Black Church
Where to stay: JugendStil Hostel – elegant and central.
8. Vilnius, Lithuania
Why it’s cheap: Low-cost everything—food, lodging, attractions.
Vilnius has that rare combo of ancient charm and modern edge. Explore the quirky Užupis District, climb Gediminas’ Tower, and get lost in one of Europe’s largest old towns.
Top things to do:
- Tour Vilnius Cathedral
- Take a hot air balloon over the city (super affordable here!)
- Chill in Bernardine Gardens
Where to stay: Downtown Forest Hostel & Camping – cozy cabins in a forest setting.
9. Poprad, Slovakia
Why it’s cheap: Ideal for nature lovers on a budget.
Think alpine lakes, castles, and mineral spas—all for a fraction of what you’d pay in Austria or Switzerland. Poprad is your gateway to the High Tatras. Go skiing, hike to waterfalls, or soak in AquaCity Poprad.
Top things to do:
- Hike in Tatra National Park
- Visit the Podtatranské Museum
- Chill in St. Egidius Square
Where to stay: Penzion Sabato – affordable and atmospheric.
Final Tips for Cheap Travel in Europe:
- Use budget airlines like Ryanair and Wizz Air
- Book hostels via Hostelworld
- Use Rome2Rio for affordable route planning
- Consider a Eurail Pass if visiting multiple cities
