Travel can be expensive, but if you choose your destination carefully, it can be more affordable than you might think.
There are plenty of gorgeous, compelling, and cost-effective countries to explore – many of which are right on our doorstep in Europe. So, if you’re dreaming of a holiday that doesn’t break the bank, there’s no reason why you can’t find a great deal.
To inspire you, here are 12 of the cheapest countries to visit in Europe. And if you’re ready to book your getaway, you can browse thousands of travel deals on our website.
1. Poland
While some of the most popular destinations in Poland – like Kraków and Warsaw – aren’t especially cheap in the high season, things become more affordable outside of summer.
Although spring and autumn are lovely times to visit, there’s a certain magic to a Polish winter, when the prices are lowest and thick snow makes the historic cities look even more captivating. If you do go in winter, just be ready to brace yourself for the cold!
Visiting the former capital of Kraków is like stepping back through the ages. Its Gothic core is packed with art nouveau, Renaissance, and baroque buildings – and museums are free to enter at least one day a week.
Tourists can also learn about Poland’s heartbreaking history during the Second World War at some of the country’s most haunting sites. These include Auschwitz-Birkenau and Schindler’s Factory, which are cheaper to visit and less crowded during the off-season.
But, of course, there’s far more to Poland than its history. While most of the country is flat, the southern border is embellished with rolling mountains, mysterious forests, and mighty rivers.
Hiking, kayaking, and canoeing are cheap here, and grand medieval castles and red-brick fortresses dot the countryside. The pretty city of Gdańsk hums with energy, and dining out on hearty local fare is tasty and affordable.
2. Romania
Romania is one of the cheapest countries in Europe – and it’s rapidly rising in popularity. This big, beautiful nation is astonishingly diverse; it’s got everything from sandy beaches, rugged mountains, and rolling meadows to captivating culture and, of course, Transylvanian castles perched precariously on craggy hilltops. Whether you want a lively city break, a rural escape, or an active adventure, Romania has it all.
The capital city of Bucharest buzzes with energy and is home to many impressive buildings which are free to visit – you can wander around the 15th-century Old Town, Revolution Square, and the Arch of Triumph.
There are also free walking tours that’ll allow you to discover this fascinating city – but it’s what lies outside the capital that’s arguably most appealing. Trains are cheap in Romania, so heading out to explore the coast or countryside is very affordable. Rocky summits, pine tree forests, and green meadows dot the Carpathian Mountains, and wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy looking for bears, elk, and deer.
Transylvania is also a must-visit, whether you’re interested in vampire legends or not. Aside from Braşov (home to Bran Castle: Dracula’s home!), there are many gothic towns that are a joy to explore and wonderfully cheap – such as Sighişoara and Sibiu.
3. The Czech Republic
While travelling to the Czech Republic certainly isn’t as cheap as it used to be, it’s still more affordable than visiting many other European countries.
Prague is considerably more expensive than the rest of the country. Yet, prices are lower than other capital cities like Paris or Rome – which it rivals in romance, charm, culture, and history. Plus, there are many free activities you can enjoy here. One tip to cut costs is to download a map and explore at your own pace, rather than joining paid tours.
The medieval Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and you can lose yourself in a maze of cobbled streets as you discover the city’s secrets. Walking along Charles Bridge, stopping at the Astronomical Clock, and admiring the glowing Gothic churches, for example, don’t cost a penny.
The rest of the country is much cheaper – from the town of Cesky Krumlov, which looks straight out of a fairy tale, to historic Sedlec and its eerie bone chapel. Or, why not escape to the hulking, craggy mountains of the Bohemian Switzerland National Park, which are ideal for hiking?
4. Montenegro
As the third newest country in the world, many of us might not be aware of Montenegro’s exact location on a map – though it offers one of the best spots on the continent for a cheap break.
Bordering Croatia, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, and Albania, this Balkan country might be small (it’s only two-thirds of the size of Wales!), but it has an astonishingly varied landscape.
With almost 200 miles of pristine coastline, it’s an excellent choice for a beach holiday. Boasting the same dazzling azure waters that Croatia is so famous for, Montenegro has many bustling coastal towns where it’s easy to find comfy, yet cheap, accommodation.
Food is affordable here too, so if you’re looking for a lazy beach break where you can swim, sunbathe, and eat until your heart’s content, you’re in the right place! If you’d prefer to explore inland Montenegro, you can hike through ancient forests, trek up craggy mountains, swim in glacial lakes, and stroll through old, walled towns packed with character.
Nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts will love visiting Durmitor and Prokletije National Parks, where not only is the hiking second to none, but you’ll have a good chance of spotting brown bears, wolves, and even lynxes!
5. Hungary
Compared to other Eastern European countries, Hungary isn’t the cheapest. But a Hungarian holiday will still cost you a fraction of a Western European one, so it’s worth a mention.
The most expensive place in Hungary is, unsurprisingly, the capital, Budapest – though skipping this city would be a mistake. With a fascinating past, stunning sights, and an abundance of culture, there are still plenty of free attractions to enjoy.
The iconic Danube (the second-longest river in Europe) bisects the city. Strolling along its banks and across the Chain Bridge is a fun, free activity that’ll allow you to admire the elegant city skyline. Budapest is also an architectural treasure trove, and the city has more baroque, neoclassical, eclectic, and art nouveau buildings than you can imagine – and taking them in doesn’t cost a penny either.
While most of the attractions in the Castle Hill area – like the Buda Castle and underground Castle Labyrinth – aren’t free, entry is cheap. Plus, the food and wine is delicious and affordable. You can learn more in our article; 12 of the best things to do in Budapest.
Outside of Budapest, things are easier on the wallet, and you can enjoy plenty of natural delights. These range from relaxing in the lake resort town of Tihany to getting active in the Bükk Mountains.
6. Portugal
One of the most appealing things about a holiday to Portugal is that many of its best attractions are completely free. With buzzing, historic streets in Lisbon; golden beaches and soaring cliffs in the south; and breathtaking hiking trails and dazzling blue waters in Madeira, you’ll hardly want to be indoors here – meaning it’s easy to keep prices down!
There’s so much to see and do in Portugal. For example, it’s free to visit Évora – a UNESCO World Heritage Site boasting Roman temples, Moorish alleys, and a medieval cathedral. Though, there are dozens more equally fascinating places across the country. Just check out our article on the best Portuguese towns to find out more.
Of course, you’ll have to pay for accommodation, but visiting outside of the summer holidays means you’ll likely find some great travel deals. And in winter, things are especially cheap. Yet, because temperatures rarely fall below 15 degrees Celsius, it’s still warm enough to explore – even if it’s not hot enough to sunbathe!
For further inspiration, why not read our articles; 10 of the best things to do in Lisbon and 10 of the best things to see and do in Madeira?
7. Albania
Shut off from the rest of the continent for much of the 20th century, Albania has long been one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. But, today, Albania’s gates are open and it won’t be long before the tourists arrive in floods.
Its winding coastline – dubbed the Albanian Riviera – is lined with dreamy beaches and deep blue waters. And, even the most popular beach resorts here, like Dhërmi and Ksamil, don’t see much international tourism. As a result, accommodation, food, and travel all remain fairly cheap.
Inland, you’ll find looming mountains, fortress towns, crumbling castles, and countless ancient Greek and Roman ruins. So, whether you’re a history buff, adventure lover, or beach enthusiast, there’s something for everyone.
The exuberant capital, Tirana, is a great base for exploring the rest of Albania, and it’s one of the most affordable places in Europe to eat out.
8. Slovakia
A centrepiece of Europe, Slovakia might be small, but it’s diverse, complex, and very affordable.
After breaking away from Czechoslovakia in 1992, Slovakia is now an independent and unique nation. Home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites, castles, mountains, and monuments, there’s lots to do here.
As you’d expect, the capital, Bratislava, is the most expensive place in the country, but because the city is compact, you only need a few days here. Its size also means you can explore on foot, as most attractions are clustered around the picturesque old town. The city is famous for its statues and sculptures (as well as its tankard-clanging drinking culture!), and there are many free galleries.
But it’s outside the capital where Slovakia really shines (and the prices are lowest). So, if you’re looking for an outdoor adventure on a budget, this could be the destination for you. The High Tatras mountains offer miles of gorgeous hiking trails. Here, you can admire views of mirror-like lakes and precipitous peaks, and in winter, you can go skiing and snowshoeing.
In the east, the charming city of Košice and the serene Tokaj wine region are also must-visits.
9. Bosnia and Herzegovina
An intriguing blend of Eastern and Western cultures with a Slavic twist, Bosnia and Herzegovina is one of the most unique countries in Europe. It may be associated with the painful civil war of the 90s, but modern Bosnia and Herzegovina is a very different place.
While the scars of that era can still be seen, visitors today will be struck by the country’s rocky mountains, medieval castles, thundering waters, and low prices.
It isn’t the cheapest destination on this list, but one of the main perks of visiting Bosnia and Herzegovina is that prices don’t vary much throughout the year. So, whether you’re looking for a sun-drenched holiday or a bargain winter ski break, you can do both on a budget. If you’re into winter sports, Jahorina and Babin Do are two of the best and cheapest ski resorts.
The capital city, Sarajevo, is also affordable, with lots of Moorish architecture, pretty terraced cafes, buzzing bars, and a thriving arts scene. Mostar, in southern Bosnia and Herzegovina, is a smaller (but no less appealing) choice for a city break.
Restaurants are typically cheap here, particularly local haunts, though Bosnia and Herzegovina is also famous for its farmers’ markets (and Christmas markets!), where you can pick up lots of tasty food cheaply.
10. Slovenia
Due to their famous beauty, compelling culture, and engrossing history, many of us are drawn to countries like Italy, Austria, and Croatia. But, unfortunately, a visit to these nations doesn’t tend to come cheap. Luckily, bordering these magnificent destinations is Slovenia. It may be smaller than its neighbours, but it’s definitely no less spectacular – and it’s significantly cheaper too!
The most famous destination here is Lake Bled, which is breathtaking with its glimmering, turquoise waters which are surrounded by the Julian Alps and dense pine forests. What’s more, it’s just as easy to find adventure here as it is to relax by the lake.
If you like active holidays, there’s almost too much on offer. You can go canyoning, rafting, caving, cycling, climbing, and skiing – and most of these activities are far cheaper than in neighbouring countries. Hike to the top of Mount Triglav, paddle along gleaming blue rivers, or trek through the miles of mysterious forests.
Plus, with the Adriatic coast scattered with pristine beaches and lively resort towns, Slovenia is the perfect spot for a beach break too.
11. Estonia
Estonia is one of the most unique countries in Europe. While it’s similar to Latvia and Lithuania in terms of landscape and history, the culture is entirely distinct. Finland is its closest neighbour when it comes to language and ethnicity, but Estonia’s half-century of Soviet rule divided the two. And ever since Estonia emerged from behind the Iron Curtain, tourists have been flooding in.
The capital, Tallinn, is bewitching and photogenic, offering one of the best European city breaks. It’s the perfect blend of laid-back and lively, and with ancient churches, medieval streets, and a vibrant, modern culture, it won’t take long for you to fall for its charms.
While Tallinn is the most expensive place in the country (although it remains cheaper than Western European cities), you can choose to spend just a few days here before heading out to explore the wilderness which Estonia boasts in droves.
Half the sparsely populated countryside is blanketed with vast swathes of forest, so if you’re looking for peace and solitude in beautiful natural surroundings, you’ll find that here. Plus, outside the capital, accommodation and activities are cheap, and its national parks are free to enter and explore.
12. Bulgaria
Bulgaria is often at the top of the list when it comes to the most cost-effective countries to visit in Europe, and it’s not difficult to see why.
One of the great things about Bulgaria is that it’s still largely undiscovered by travellers. But while it may not be as popular as its neighbour, Greece, it also boasts gorgeous beaches, historic towns, ancient ruins, and lively cities – all with a cheaper price tag. It’s tipped to become the ‘next Croatia’, however, so now’s the time to visit while the prices are still low.
A beach break here will cost a fraction of what it would in countries like Italy, Spain, or Greece. The diverse coastline of the Varna region, which backs onto the Black Sea, is home to dozens of laid-back resorts and pretty towns – so there are plenty of locations to choose from.
Things in Bulgaria are naturally much cheaper out of season – and while you may not be able to kick back on the beach outside of summertime, there’s still plenty to do here. The Central Balkan National Park is ideal for hiking and you’ll be able to take in panoramic views. Plus, the mountains are excellent for skiing in the winter. There are also many rural towns packed with culture, castles, and history; and the capital, Sofia, is an ideal destination for a city break!
For more information, why not read our article, 10 things to see and do in Bulgaria?
Final thoughts…
In the UK, we’re lucky to have mainland Europe on our doorstep. As one of the most diverse continents in the world – from language to geography to culture – Europe’s delights and charms are famous across the world. No wonder Europe accounts for more than half of all international tourism!
While countries like France, Spain, and Italy are some of the most popular destinations to visit, they’re by no means the cheapest. But you can enjoy equally magical holidays in dozens of other, more cost-effective, European countries.
From the pristine, sandy beaches of Montenegro to the rugged mountains and gleaming lakes of Slovenia – not to mention the many charming cities and towns throughout Eastern Europe – this continent is packed with beautiful countries just waiting to be explored on a budget.
For more cheap holiday ideas, you might like to check out the travel section of our website, where you’ll find articles like; 12 of the cheapest countries to visit in 2024, 8 ways to travel on a shoestring budget, and 14 of the most underrated countries to visit in 2024.
Looking to book your next getaway?
Are you planning a European holiday? Or do you have any favourite cheap European destinations to share with our readers? We’d love to hear about your travel experiences in the comments below.