Top 10 Affordable European Cities for Budget Travelers

Are you dreaming of a European vacation but worried about the costs? Don't worry, you don't have to break the bank to enjoy the beauty and culture of Europe. Here are the top 10 affordable European cities that offer great value for your money.

10. Lisbon, Portugal

Starting our list at number 10. We have Lisbon, the capital of Portugal. This city is famous for its charming streets, historic landmarks, and delicious cuisine. You can visit the iconic Belem Tower, explore the Alfama neighborhood, take a stroll in the beautiful Jardim da Estrela park and indulge in delicious Portuguese seafood dishes at traditional restaurants. With an average daily budget of $60-70 USD, Lisbon is a great choice for budget travelers who want to experience the best of Portugal.

9. Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn, Estonia. Photo by Dmitry Rukhlenko, EnvatoElements

Next up is Tallinn, the charming capital of Estonia. Tallinn is a delightful and budget-friendly destination for travelers, offering a wealth of unique attractions without breaking the bank. For starters, there's no shortage of things to do in Old Town, the walled medieval city center. Stroll along its cobbled streets, admire the Gothic architecture of Toompea Castle, or explore the secret passageways and hidden courtyards that make up its unique atmosphere. And if you're looking for a bargain, check out one of Tallinn's many markets, where you can find fresh produce and handmade souvenirs at great prices. You can do all of this on a budget of around $50-60 USD per day.

8. Athens, Greece

Athens, Greece. Photo by Antonpetrus, EnvatoElements

At number 8, we have Athens, the capital of Greece. One of the best attractions in Athens for budget travelers is the Acropolis. This ancient landmark is home to iconic structures such as the Parthenon, Propylaea and Erechtheion. Stroll through these historic ruins and marvel at their grandeur without spending a fortune. Additionally, explore the city's vibrant neighborhoods such as Plaka and Monastiraki where you can find cheap restaurants, bars, shops, and cafes. And with an average daily budget of $50-60 USD, Athens can be an affordable destination for budget travelers.

7. Riga, Latvia

Riga, Latvia. Photo by Alex Does Pictures.

Riga, Latvia is a great destination for budget travelers. From exploring the Old Town and visiting the stunning Riga Cathedral, to taking a stroll in the beautiful Bastejkalna Park, there are plenty of activities to enjoy at an affordable price. For those seeking culture, museums such as the Latvian National Museum of Art and the Museum of Latvian Occupation are both excellent choices. The average daily budget in Riga is $50-60 USD, making it a great destination for budget travelers.

6. Budapest, Hungary

Budapest, Hungary. Photo by vunavgallery, EnvatoElements

Budapest is a beautiful city located in Hungary, famous for its stunning architecture, thermal baths, and rich cultural heritage. With an average daily budget of around $50-60 USD, you can explore the iconic Parliament Building, which offers breathtaking views of the Danube River. Stroll along the banks of the river and take in the historic architecture. Visit the Castle Hill district for a unique view of the city and its various sites, including Buda Castle and Matthias Church. After sightseeing, relax in one of Budapest's many hot springs or take a leisurely river cruise through the city.

5. Prague, Czech Republic

Prague, Czech Republic. Photo by Michelangeloop, EnvatoElements

Moving on to the top 5 we have Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic. Prague is full of exciting activities that won't break the bank. With an average daily budget of around $50-60 USD, you can explore the iconic Charles Bridge, Visit the Prague Castle, the largest ancient castle in the world, which dates back to the 9th century. View works of iconic artists like Vivaldi and Mozart in the Prague State Opera, or check out one of the hundreds of galleries showcasing contemporary art. Learn about the city's fascinating history by taking a tour of its numerous museums and monuments.

For those looking for an exciting nightlife, there are plenty of affordable bars and pubs around town. Sample some delicious local beer or mingle with locals in the charming cobblestone streets. Prague is also a great place to enjoy some outdoor activities, such as boating on the Vltava River or biking around town.

4. Krakow, Poland

St. Mary’s Bacilica in Krakow, Poland. Photo by RossHelen, EnvatoElements

Krakow, a charming city in southern Poland, offers a unique blend of history, culture, and stunning architecture. There are many attractions and activities that can be enjoyed with an average daily budget of around $40-50 USD such as visiting the iconic Wawel Castle, strolling around the charming Old Town, or learning about the city's Jewish heritage in the Kazimierz district. The city also offers affordable food options and plenty of outdoor activities to explore, such as biking along the Vistula River or taking a leisurely walk around the Old Town.

3. Vilnius, Lithuania

Vilnius, Lithuania. Photo by Grigory Bruev, EnvatoElements

At number 3, Vilnius is a great city for budget travelers. For starters, it's the fabulous Old Town which is filled with-preserved Baroque Gothic architecture. Make sure to by the Gediminas Tower, a symbol of Vilnius, and the St. Anne's Church which is an architectural masterpiece. Other activities include visiting the impressive churches of Vilnius Cathedral and St. Peter & Paul’s Church.

The city also has plenty of parks for a budget-friendly day out in nature. Check out the Bernardine Garden, located in the old city center, or explore the beautiful park of Three Crosses. For those who love exploring new cultures, there are plenty of affordable museums in Vilnius ranging from art to science and more.

For foodies on a budget, Vilnius has some delicious restaurants offering traditional Lithuanian cuisine for an affordable price. The city is also known for its beer, with microbreweries and pubs located throughout the city. With an average daily budget of $40-50 USD, it’s no wonder budget travelers love this European gem!

2. Sofia, Bulgaria

Moving on to number 2 we have Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria. One of the most affordable cities to visit in Europe with a budget of around $30-40 USD per day. This city offers a mix of ancient and modern, with Roman ruins and Soviet-era architecture. Stroll through the city center and admire the grand historical buildings such as Saint Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Parliament Building and The National Assembly Square. Then explore some of Sofia’s vibrant nightlife and sample delicious Bulgarian cuisine at one of the many restaurants, bars and cafés. Shopping enthusiasts will be pleased to know that Sofia is full of bargain-filled markets and stores where you can find clothes, souvenirs, artwork and more.

1. Belgrade, Serbia

Belgrade, Serbia. Photo by a_medvedkov, EnvatoElements

And now, the top affordable European city for budget travelers. Belgrade, the lively capital of Serbia. This city offers a rich culture and history, with impressive landmarks such as the Belgrade Fortress and the Temple of Saint Sava. You can also enjoy the city's vibrant nightlife and delicious cuisine. The city also has several theaters that often offer discounted tickets for visitors. And with an average daily budget of $30-40 USD, Belgrade is a top affordable destination for budget travelers.

So there you have it, the top 10 affordable European cities for budget travelers. Whether you're looking for history, culture, or relaxation, these cities offer great value for your money. Start planning your budget-friendly European adventure today!