European city getaways aren’t known for being cheap or easy on the budget. As a result of the ‘crowd mentality,’ we all want to follow in the footsteps of our peers. Despite this, many other European cities have as much charm and beauty as the old favorites and for a fraction of the expense as Paris.
Here are 17 favorite European cities where you may get a good deal.
Athens, Greece
It is located in Greece. As a matter of fact, almost everyone you meet who’s ever been to Athens will tell you that it’s a beautiful place to visit. They’ll also be eager to inform you how pleased they were with the pricing of the goods they purchased.
Auxerre, France
This town is located in Burgundy on the Yonne River. This town was an important link between the Mediterranean and the North Sea in the past, thanks to its strategic position on the river and its importance as a gateway for trade.
It is an important cultural and historical center in France. Auxerre has been recognized as a protected historic town and an important cultural center.
Bologna, Italy
Bologna is a city in northeastern Italy. It has to be included on our list of Europe’s most affordable (and greatest) destinations. As a result, this nation boasts the world’s most UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
A hidden treasure between Florence and Venice, Bologna, needs to be discovered more widely. Use Google to search for delicious Italian ice cream.
Bratislava, Slovakia
Slovakia, home to Bratislava, is a budget-friendly location in Europe. Despite its proximity to Vienna, the warmest and most habitable central European city, it has so far avoided the masses.
As a result, it’s one of Europe’s most affordable vacation spots right now. Bratislava isn’t the largest or most glamorized city in the country. Nevertheless, it makes up for its little stature with a unique blend of medieval whimsy and Gothic structures.
Bucharest, Romania
Bucharest pic.twitter.com/xXrfwa9U1H
— Maria ♡ (@Maria07529704) July 7, 2022
It’s the most budget-friendly option on our list. I’m surprised Bucharest, a metropolis of almost 1.8 million people, has remained so dormant for so long.
The city of Bucharest is frequently overlooked in favor of Transylvania and other eastern European hotspots. However, there’s plenty to do here to make a long weekend worthwhile.
Český Krumlov, Czech Republic
Cesky Krumlov is a fabulous city that is entangled with a loop of the Vltava river. Czech Republic 🇨🇿 pic.twitter.com/pDzfP0C8rT
— Jerimiah Treefrog (@WorldOfPicture5) March 30, 2022
Český Krumlov, in the Czech Republic’s Bohemian area, is one of Europe’s most affordable places to live in (and to visit!). Just a few hours south of Prague, it seems like something out of a storybook, thanks to its colorful architecture and well-preserved Old Town.
Travelers on a tight budget can consider staying here. Compare it to Lisbon’s capital, and you’ll see what I mean. Make sure you go during the cold months to save money.
Dresden, Germany
There are few ‘affordable’ cities in Germany, especially in places like the Bavarian state of Bavaria. The costs in eastern and southern Europe are still far away from what you’ll find in Berlin.
However, Dresden is a large German city that has affordable pricing and a lot to offer. Classical architecture, world-class museums, art galleries, and a beautiful location along the Elbe River are some of the city’s most notable attributes.
Use Zomato to find a list of all the restaurants in your area and enjoy German beer and delicacies.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik, the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” is a walled city located on the Adriatic Sea in southern Croatia. With just 40,000 residents, it’s swiftly become one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in the Mediterranean.
UNESCO has designated it a World Heritage Site.
Granada, Spain
Palace of Charles V. Granada, Spain 🇪🇸 people indicate scale. Have a wonderful day. @SalamRazian pic.twitter.com/LlPQz9MvdR
— 🏛Architectolder (@Architectolder) July 7, 2022
Spain’s southernmost city of Granada is nestled in the Sierra Nevada foothills of the Andalucian region. The city’s historic architecture, which goes back to the Moorish conquest of Spain, is perhaps its most prominent feature.
Each sample evokes a different era and location, with its massive castles and strongholds set against a mountainous background. However, they are surrounded by contemporary amenities.
Hvar, Croatia
Roman mosaic discovered in 2021 in old town of Hvar, Croatia. pic.twitter.com/xPwB5ZAV5V
— History Defined (@historydefined) June 29, 2022
Hvar, Croatia is booming. For those looking for a vacation that has a little of everything from mountains to wineries to beaches, Hvar has it all.
The island’s main city is Hvar, although other smaller settlements are scattered around it.
The best season to visit Hvar is between May and September. However, remember that it may be rather busy this season.
Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul, Turkey pic.twitter.com/7VEZJobNw8
— Travly (@travly) June 28, 2022
Istanbul is the capital city of Turkey. Located on the Bosphorus Strait between Europe and Asia, Istanbul is Turkey’s biggest city and a great tourist destination on a budget.
Airbnb offers attractive city center apartments for as low as €20 per night, while a 3-star hotel room is as little as €18 per night per person.
Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic
The town of Karlovy Vary, Czech, means “Charles’ Bath.” It was founded in 1370 by Charles IV, King of Bohemia and Holy Roman Emperor. Western Czech Bohemia is where you’ll find hot springs.
The International Film Festival, which takes place in July, draws actors and film aficionados worldwide.
Valencia, Spain
A photo that screams medieval Spain! 🏰
On the top of the Cullera Mountain sit the Cullera #Castle, an impressive fortress built over the ruins of a Moorish castle.
The views from the top are unforgettable. 😍
📍Valencia, #Spain
📸 via spain [IG]#summer2022 pic.twitter.com/6Jgkf6Ebaa
— Sunny Holidays (@SunnyHolidays4u) July 6, 2022
Just like its more renowned neighbors, this Spanish city has just as much to offer at a fraction of the expense.
It’s cheaper to stay here than in Barcelona or Madrid. Many historic buildings and churches are also available to the public for a cheap cost. So, you won’t have to worry about going over your budget when visiting one of Europe’s most cheap tourist destinations.
Kotor, Montenegro
Kotor at night #MontenegroAdventures #Montenegro #Kotor #CrnaGora pic.twitter.com/bvz4OIlPfR
— PUTOVANJA by Montenegro Adventures (@FlightsMonte) June 29, 2022
Kotor is a town with a beautiful harbor that UNESCO has designated as a World Heritage Site. With a mid-range 3-course dinner costing roughly €25, you may enjoy its exquisite marine specialties.
Walls surround the village, so the only way to travel about it is on foot. However, given that Kotor is located immediately on the Bay of Kotor, you could want to hire a stand-up paddleboard instead (around €30 for 24 hours).
Accommodation costs are very low. It’s possible to hire a private room at a hostel for €20 a night, or an apartment on Airbnb for €50 a night, depending on your budget.
Krakow, Poland
A wonderful altar in the Basilica of the Corpus Christi in Krakow, Poland 🇵🇱 pic.twitter.com/PDxHLMesI2
— Jerimiah Treefrog (@WorldOfPicture5) July 7, 2022
One of Poland’s most famous tourist destinations, this city is a must-see for every traveler looking for a place to visit in Poland. It’s also quite affordable, making it one of those places that is not only a terrific place to visit but also an easy one to get about financially.
Use Zomato to find restaurants in your area and enjoy local delicacies.
Lisbon, Portugal
Interesting architecture in Lisbon, Portugal! pic.twitter.com/nUCgqvaiXg
— Francisco Ribeiro (@fraveris) July 7, 2022
The Portuguese capital Lisbon is a growingly popular tourist attraction. Culture in the city has exploded in recent years, and the city’s natural beauty is also breathtaking.
Its hills on the Atlantic Ocean’s shore create a dramatic and picturesque arrangement. A mellow charm and a plethora of white-bleached limestone structures make the city a popular tourist destination.
Sofia, Bulgaria
Another highlight of my visit to Sofia was getting to see the stunning St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral glimmering in the sunlight. This was the end point of the excellent free walking tour that I joined which was definitely worth doing.#AlexanderNevsky #Sofia #Bulgaria pic.twitter.com/AhyEmGoaXA
— Aidan | Flights and Times (@flightsandtimes) July 1, 2022
Sofia, Bulgaria’s capital and biggest city, was founded in the 12th century. Budapest has been compared, although the two cities are quite different. Bulgarian capital Sofia is a fascinating mix of European and Soviet-era architecture.
In a matter of seconds, you may view two distinct architectural styles in one location. Many Orthodox churches may be seen in the city with ornate domes and ornate decorations.
Conclusion
Visiting any of these cities will open your eyes to the many other regions and aspects of Europe that you would not have otherwise thought to visit, leaving you asking why you hadn’t investigated alternatives to the typical suspects.