Plan your next trip to some of the cheapest places to travel in Europe.
You do not have to be oozing with money to explore the world. Contrary to what many people think, sometimes the biggest travel expense is getting to your destination. However, once the hurdle of your plane ticket is taken care of, the world is full of affordable places to explore. Today, we are going to take an in depth look at some of our favorite cheapest places to travel in Europe. From eastern Europe to western Europe, there are so many cheap places that are just waiting for you to fall in love with! Today, we are going to break down everything you need to know budget wise. From where to stay to what to eat to things to do, we have got you covered.
1. Krakow, Poland
One of the cheapest places to travel in Europe is Krakow, Poland. In fact, this city is a popular destination as far as cheap places to travel in Europe go. Do not be surprised if you see it pop up time and time again when you are doing your research. Whether you are traveling with a group or traveling solo, this is a great city to explore.
What makes this city such a great place to visit is the fact that it has got so much going on for it. For starters, Krakow is a major tourist city that offers plenty of history and culture. Many travel experts have confirmed that Krakow, Poland is a draw for many tourists due to the fact that it is so astonishingly affordable. In fact, many people who live in neighboring countries will often venture out here for a quick weekend getaway to enjoy their time off.
Unlike many other cities that are flourished with tourism, Krakow, Poland has the advantage of remaining so affordable. from hotels to dining to neat things to do, you really do get a bang for your buck in this major European city. When you arrive, you will need to exchange your money. The currency that is used in Poland is the Polish zlotych.
Where to Stay
One of the driving factors that make Krakow, Poland one of the cheapest places to travel in Europe is the fact that there are so many lodging options. If you are to trying to stretch your dollar here, then there are plenty of hostels for you to stay in. If you are looking for a little bit more luxury, then there are plenty of other quality hotels that will not break the bank as well. On average, you can find that you will spend anywhere from 30 to 40 Polish zlotych a night on lodging.
Getting Around Town
Another one of the best features of Krakow, Poland if the fact that there is plenty of transportation to take advantage of. On average, visitors can expect to spend about 5 to 6 Polish zlotych on transportation for getting around the city.
The Cost of Food
Wherever you go on your travel, getting a bite to eat is a non-negotiable. After all, you do have to feed your travels. However, you do not always have to dine out in the fanciest places to experience any city you go to. Budgeting your food can help curb your travel expenses to help make your travels more affordable. Overall, in Krakow, Poland, if you are dining out on a daily basis, you can expect to spend anywhere from 24 on food a day.
While this is rather affordable, you should keep in mind that you can always pack along snacks and drinks. This will allow you to save even more money so that you do not always have to dine out to satisfy your hunger.
Things to Do
Lastly, you simply cannot travel to Krakow, Poland without experiencing the city. If you plan on visiting museums and attractions and participating in any other forms of entertainment, you will want to keep an eye out on your budget. Typically, many attractions such as museums run you no more than 16 Polish zlotych. In addition to that, going out to plays or other types of upscale attractions will typically run you around 20 Polish zlotych as well.
2. Sofia, Bulgaria
This next destination remains to be one of the best places to visit. For starters, when it comes to Europe Sofia, Bulgaria is certainly one of the cheapest places to travel in Europe. Especially considered in the fact that this is a major capital city in Europe.
The atmosphere surrounding Sofia, Bulgaria is a charming one. Locals are very receptive to tourists and foreigners here. Not only that, but everything in this quaint city is super cheap. The only thing that you can expect to dish out big bucks for is your ticket here. However, if you are backpacking through Europe, then this is certainly a city you will want to make a stop at. As the major cities surrounding Sofia, Bulgaria continue to get pricier, Sofia, thankfully has remained rather study. The Bulgaria Leva will get you a long way here. Here is a breakdown of how wonderfully affordable the city is.
Where to Stay
One of the major features of Sofia is the wide range of lodging options. You can choose from hotels and hostels to accommodate your stay. On average, visitors can expect to spend no more than BGN 20 on their lodging expenses. As always, staying in an affordable hostel can significantly curb your travel expenses here.
Getting Around Town
Getting around the city is rather affordable as well. With public transportation, visitors can get everywhere they need to go for just under BGN 4. As always, taking a walking tour of the city is a great way to get around as well. Not only will you be able to go to where you need to go, but this is a unique opportunity to soak in the beauty that the city has to offer.
The Cost of Food
Dining out is another affordable experience in Sofia, Bulgaria. For three meals a day at established restaurants, travelers can expect to spend roughly about BGN 17. Unlike many other destinations in Europe, the price of food is rather appealing.
Things to Do
There are so many popular destinations waiting to be explored in Sofia, Bulgaria. With all the attractions that there are here, you can expect to pay no more than BGN 6 for things to do. This price point is rather attractive because the amount of fun that you can have here is simply limitless thanks to the affordability. If you are looking for one of the best ways to enjoy Sofia, Bulgaria, then taking a walking tour is a real winner. Not only do you get to experience the city in all its cultural glory. But you do not have to pay a dime to go on Bulgaria's walking tour.
3. Belgrade, Serbia
If you are willing to take a trip out to this underrated country, then Serbia is certainly one of the cheapest places to travel in Europe. From fun things to do to great places to stay, travelers can all agree that the affordability here is like no other.
Because it is a little bit out of the way, travelers here will find that Serbia is not necessarily a tourist hotspot. Especially for a popular city like Belgrade. However, for travelers who are on a budget, this destination is a real winner. Here is a breakdown of what you can expect your euro to get you in Belgrade, Serbia.
Where to Stay
Finding a great hotel is one of the most affordable aspects of Belgrade, Serbia. There are some great options available when it comes to lodging here. This is because there is a wide range of hostels and hotels for you to take advantage of. If you are aiming for the cheaper option, then you are in for some luck. Typically, visitors can expect to find a night stay in a hotel for just under ten Euros. This can be incredibly affordable especially if you are staying more than a couple of nights.
Getting Around Town
When it comes to getting around town, transportation is one of the cheapest things to do in Belgrade Serbia. In fact, transportation is what makes this one of the cheapest places to travel in Europe. Travelers can expect to pay no more than a couple of Euros a day to get around and explore the town.
The Cost of Food
Eating out is another winner when it comes to the affordability of Belgrade, Serbia. For three meals a day, travelers can expect to spend no more than 10 Euros. This is a really attractive aspect of Belgrade Serbia. You do not have to sacrifice great food for a hefty price. This is something that all travelers should take advantage of here.
Things to Do
Belgrade, Serbia is home to the ever popular Nikola Tesla Museum. Like many of the other popular landmarks in Belgrade, Serbia, entrance is super affordable. In fact, you can expect to pay no more than five US dollars to visit the Nikola Tesla Museum. Not only that but on average, three Euros is all you will need fully appreciate the attractions at Belgrade has to offer.
4. Istanbul, Turkey
Turkey is one of the most iconic cities in all of Europe. When it comes to Istanbul, there is no better city that is popular and full of culture. Istanbul has so much to offer. It is no wonder why tourists flock here each year.
Currently, Turkey is at an all time low when it comes to affordability of travel. Because of this, travelers should certainly take advantage and explore it as this is one of the cheapest places to travel in Europe right now. In fact, Istanbul is one of the best places to travel to in 2019. What makes a Turkey so great is the fact that there is so much to do here. From the beautiful mosques to all the shopping and the wonderful restaurants. Visitors will certainly never get bored spending a long weekend in Istanbul, Turkey. The currency that is used in Istanbul, Turkey is the Turkish lira. Here are the prices that you can expect to find waiting for you when you do arrive in this fabulous city.
Where to Stay
Because this city is such a booming tourist destination, there are plenty of places for you to stay at. From cheap hostels to five star luxury hotels. You can certainly take your pick of lodging here. However, if you are looking for a rather affordable hostel then you can expect to spend no more than 50 Turkish lira a night. The affordability of lodging is another reason that travelers choose to visit here and stay for extended periods of time.
Getting Around Town
Getting around this bustling city is rather easy thanks to the wide range of transportation available. On average, visitors can expect to spend just a couple of lira in transportation fees. As always, if you are looking to save some money, then a walking tour is the way to go. A walking tour will allow you to soak in the beauty surrounding you for free.
The Cost of Food
Food and drink is another popular thing to experience in Istanbul Turkey. The unique flavors of the culture here have translated very well into the food scene here. For three hearty meals at some great Turkish restaurants, visitors can expend to spend roughly 50 lira a day.
For many who have traveled here, they will tell you that food is a real winner here. There are so many delectable treats and meals to try. Just beware, you may end up spending more than you have bargained for.
Things to Do
What makes Istanbul, Turkey one of the best places to travel in Europe is the fact that there are so many things to do here. If you are looking to visit the Museum and other landmarks that require an entry fee, then no worries. Travelers typically spend no more than 30 lira on attractions. However, if you are looking for a memorable experience as far as things to do, then visiting the popular blue mosque is a must. For starters, you will pay nothing to visit this iconic mosque. Not only that but when you do visit, you can expect to be met with an incredible amount of beauty.
5. Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
This next destination may cross the minds of many due to its war ridden past. However, today, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina is one of the best places to visit in Europe. For starters, when it comes to affordability, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina is considered to be one of the cheapest places to travel in Europe.
The topography in Sarajevo is simply stunning. Visitors here can expect to find quaint villages that are situated deep in the mountainous region. Some of the top highlights to look out for here is the wonderful Muslim Old Town. This Muslim old town is super charming. Not only that but it is incredibly inviting for a wide range of Travelers. However, it should be noted, that it is a bit difficult to get here. If you are able to make your way here, then you will see why this is such a popular destination for so many travelers.
Where to Stay
When you are looking to stay a night, the lodging options are pretty great. In fact, staying in a hostel on an average day will run you no more than 10 Euros a night. If you are really on the hunt for a bargain, you can even find a place to stay for just under 5 Euros a night too.
Getting Around Town
Traveling around the city is no worry at all either. In fact, visitors can expect to pay no more than 4 Euros on transportation to get from one destination to another. However, if you ask anyone who has been here they will tell you that the best way to see the city is on foot. Strolling around Sarajevo on foot will cost you absolutely nothing.
The Cost of Food
The flavors of Sarajevo are unique and delicious. If you eat out three times a day in some of Sarajevo's most popular restaurants, then you can expect to pay no more than 10 euros a meal. This affordability is what has enabled Sarajevo to be a popular destination for many European backpackers.
Things to Do
There are a couple of popular attractions that Sarajevo has to offer. For starters, the National Museum, and the Bosnian Historical Museum is a popular destination for many. Visitors can stop here and take an in depth look at the city's past. What's better than soaking up all this knowledge? The price tag. If you plan on going to one of the popular attractions here, then you can expect to pay no more than five Euros when it comes to entrance fees. Compared to some other destinations in Europe, these fees are rather attractive.
6. Bucharest, Romania
This next destination is not only is a unique place to travel to. But it is also one of the cheapest places to travel in Europe as well. Romania is known to the world for so many reasons. Yet it remains to be one of Europe's most underrated countries. This is especially true for the city of Bucharest. One of the main things that this city has going for it is the fact that it is relatively affordable when compared to the rest of Europe.
Bucharest’s Old Town is one of the major cities in Romania. Although it is a major city, the downside is that not many people tend to visit it. Because of this, the city does not boast a very touristy atmosphere. The good news is, the lack of tourism has not stopped this city from being one of the cheapest places to travel in Europe.
When you get to Bucharest, there are plenty of things for you to look forward to. For starters, the parliament building is a huge dominating piece of architecture that is simply stunning. Alongside the history here, the culture is simply unique. No matter where you go in the city, visitors can expect to get a sense of that unique culture that Romania is known for.
Where to Stay
When it comes to staying in Bucharest, Romania, you do have plenty of options to choose from as far as lodging is concerned. You can expect that a standard hotel will typically cost you anywhere from 35 to 40 in Romanian leu a night. However, if you are looking to save a little extra cash, then you can never go wrong with choosing a hostel to stay in. Many hostels here are rather comfortable and super affordable. Finding the right one can make your trip here that much better. As always. You can upgrade your stay in the plenty of five stars hotels that call the city home as well.
Getting Around Town
Getting around Bucharest, Romania is rather affordable as well. When it comes to transportation fees, visitors can typically expect to spend about 5 Romanian leu for moving around the city. However, this city is rather walkable as well. So, if you are looking to get some steps in, walking the city can be quite pleasant if you are here during the warmer months.
The Cost of Food
You really will not feel the cost of Romania until it is time to dine out. Food happens to be one of the most “expensive” things about Bucharest, Romania (though it is still rather affordable). Typically, dining out will cost you anywhere from 45 Romanian leu a day. Typically this is what you can expect to pay for 3 meals a day in Bucharest. Although a little on the pricier side, it is still rather affordable when it comes to the cheapest places to travel in Europe.
Things to Do
Attractions and entertainment is where this European city really shines. On average, travelers can expect to pay around 15 Romanian leu for entertainment. for attractions such as museums and popular landmarks, the price drops down to around 12 Romanian leu. For many places around Europe, you can not find a better price for filling your day with enjoyment.
7. Kiev, Ukraine
This next destination is one of the cheapest places to travel in Europe for so many reasons. For starters, Kiev, Ukraine is an underrated destination for many European travelers. Although it is a bit underrated, there still is rather so much to do here. For starters, there is a deep history here that is simply rich in culture. Not only that but because this is a popular destination for many Europeans, there is plenty for you here as far as attractions and entertainment go. This bustling city boasts so much entertainment that you can easily spend a weekend here without getting bored. Lastly, the affordability of Kiev, Ukraine is really unmatched.
Where to Stay
The lodging options in Kiev, Ukraine are very plentiful. From hostels to five star hotels, there is a place for every type of traveler here. When it comes to the best cheap hostel, visitors can expect to pay around UHR 200 A night. If you are a US traveler, then that means probably around $10 is what you can expect to pay. This is a great bargain for a city that is considered to be one of the cheapest places to travel in Europe.
Getting Around Town
There is plenty of transportation for you to take advantage of in Kiev, Ukraine. The transportation here will roughly run you about UHR 16 a day. However, when you are in the central part of the city, it is certainly walkable. So you can get around from place to place simply by strolling around.
The Cost of Food
If you are traveling on a budget, you will see that food is probably the most expensive part of your trip here. If you are looking for your average price of three meals a day, then you can expect to spend about UHR 480. While this does seem a little bit on the steep side, keep in mind that this is three restaurants today. You can always curve cost a bit by limiting the number of times you eat out as well. Not only that but stopping by the grocery store and making your own meals to go is a great option to go with as well.
Things to Do
When you are looking for things to do in Kiev, Ukraine you will certainly not break the bank with the different attractions here. Visiting museums and other popular landmarks will typically set you back about UHR 15. However, there are plenty of free things for you to do here as well. One of the best free things to take advantage of here is strolling around the city. This is one of the best ways to soak in the beautiful architecture that surrounds you. With so much history rooted here, there is never enough time to soak it all in.
8. Budapest, Hungary
This next destination is a real winner when it comes to the cheapest places to travel in Europe. Budapest is a real winner because it is such an iconic destination to go to. This bustling city is a popular destination for so many foreigners and tourists. Because of this, there are so many things to do in Budapest Hungary. Whether you are strolling along the river or are in the heart of Budapest, you'll find plenty of attractions waiting for you to explore.
If you are a travel Backpacker who is tracking through Europe, then Budapest should certainly be on your list of places to explore. Plus it does help that Budapest is considered to be one of the cheapest places to travel in Europe. When you are here, the main currency that is used is the Hungarian Forint. Here is a breakdown of what you can expect to pay during your stay here.
Where to Stay
One thing that is great about Budapest is the fact that it is a bustling city with so much going on. If you are looking to stay in an affordable hostel that is in the heart of the city, then there is plenty that you can choose from. In fact, you can expect to pay no more than HUF 3000 a night. When you translate that to American dollars, that is around nearly ten bucks a night. Quite a bargain for a bustling city such as Budapest.
Getting Around town
Because this is such a bustling city, there are plenty of options available to you in terms of getting around too. Typically, transportation will set you back no more than HUF 700. The affordability of transportation here will allow you to get everywhere you need to go without thinking twice.
The Cost of Food
Food is another real winner when it comes to the affordability of Budapest. Tourists and foreigners can typically expect to pay about 3,000 in Hungarian Forint for meals. There are some interesting flavors to take advantage of in Budapest. You should certainly splurge and dine out at least once while you are on your adventure here.
Things to Do
There are so many things to do in Budapest, Hungary that it is a must that you spend at least a week here. When you do get here, some popular landmarks to take advantage of are the world famous thermal spas and the bustling museums. On average, visitors can expect to spend no more than HUF 1500 on attractions and things to do. This affordability on leisurely activity is something that all travelers can certainly look forward to.
9. St. Petersburg, Russia
Many travelers would not think it, but St. Petersburg, Russia is certainly one of the cheapest places to travel in Europe. Although it is a little bit out of the way in terms of location, Russia is certainly a destination that you can not miss out on.
Over the past couple of years, the currency in Russia, the Russian ruble, has been steady and strong. For visitors, this has translated well, because you can expect to find great bargains throughout the city. Here is a breakdown of what you can expect to pay when you are visiting St. Petersburg Russia.
Where to Stay
Because this is a major city, there are so many different lodging options for you to take advantage of. If you are looking for a standard night stay at a respectable hostel, then you can expect to pay roughly 555 Russian rubles a night. This affordability might even enable you to stretch out your stay a day or two longer.
Getting Around town
Transportation is another affordable facet of Saint Petersburg, Russia. In fact, visitors can expect to spend no more than a hundred Russian rubles trying to get around. As always, there are plenty of great locations to take walking tours in. These walking tours are a free way to get you from point A to point B when you are in St. Petersburg.
The Cost of Food
Meals are another great winner as far as price point goes. For three meals a day, visitors can expect to pay a little over 1,000 Russian rubles. You do not have to skimp out on nourishment with prices like these. Some of the best places to eat out are on the St.Petersburg Square. Here, you will not only get fantastic food, but you will get wonderful views of the sprawling plaza before you.
Things to Do
There is a wide range of things to do in St. Petersburg Russia. The great news is that many of them are free. However, if you do plan on visiting popular landmarks and museums, you do not have to worry about breaking the bank. For many attractions, you are typically looking at spending no more than 400 Russian rubles for all your entertainment needs.
10. Santorini, Greece
This next destination is a popular landmark for so many travelers. The fact that many wanderlust Instagrammers have been flocking here may have something to do with that. Regardless, if you are looking for some of the best and cheapest places to travel in Europe, Santorini has got you covered.
Where to Stay
You will find that in Santorini there are a range of locations to stay in. However, hostels certainly are the way to go here. When you are shopping for a hostel, you can expect to pay no more than 10 Euros a night. If you get lucky, you can snag some wonderful locations with Incredible views at wonderfully affordable prices. Not only that but because of the affordability and lodging, it would be wise to extend your stay here a day or two as well. With so many things to do in Santorini, be sure to book your stay for a good amout of time.
Getting Around town
If you do need to get around the city, then you will typically pay no more than four Euros to do so. However, if you ask us, we have got to say that getting around the city should only be done on foot. Exploring by foot will allow you to experience Santorini the way it was supposed to be experienced. You absolutely cannot go wrong by exploring the town this way. Not only is Santorini one of the cheapest places to travel in Europe, but it is also one of the most beautiful.
The Cost of Food
Although just a bit on the pricier side, it is still incredibly affordable when it comes to the food in Santorini. Visitors can expect to spend no more than 17 Euros on the delicious Mediterranean dishes that are waiting for you here.
Things to Do
There are several popular landmarks to visit in Santorini. If you plan on popping into any of them, then you can expect to pay just under four Euros for visiting them. One of the most popular destinations that visitors like to stop into is the Museum of Prehistoric Thira. This museum takes visitors on a ride into the past that is not only eye-opening but intriguing.
Final Thoughts
You do not have to break the back to explore some of the cheapest places to travel in Europe. Be sure to keep some of these destinations on your list the next time you fly over to the beautiful continent. From food to culture to things to do, there is so much you can do without breaking the bank!
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