Traveling cheaply in Europe in 2025: yes, it’s possible, and here are the best cities to achieve it.
Planning a trip to Europe sounds exciting… until you check the prices. Hotels costing over €150 per night, overpriced meals in tourist areas, and expensive transportation might make you think traveling across the Old Continent is out of reach. But what if you were told there are still charming European cities, full of history, culture, and great food, where you can enjoy yourself for less than €50 a day?
That’s exactly what we bring you here: an updated guide to the cheapest European cities to visit in 2025. This selection is based on real data and direct travel experience, ideal for backpackers, digital nomads, young couples, or anyone who wants to explore Europe without emptying their wallet.
What does a “cheap city” really mean for traveling in Europe?
When we talk about budget cities, we’re referring to destinations where you can cover basic needs—lodging, transportation, food, and some tourist activities—with a tight daily budget. Many of these estimates are based on a backpacker-friendly approach, meaning shared hostel accommodations, local food, and public transportation.
For example, cities like Sofia, Bucharest, and Sarajevo allow daily budgets from 37 to 47 euros, including a hostel bed, three meals, public transportation, and even a treat like a local beer or admission to a tourist attraction.
Furthermore, these destinations tend to have cheaper hotel options than other European capitals like Paris, Rome, or Amsterdam, making them ideal options for those who prefer more comfort without spending too much.
Benefits of choosing affordable cities to travel around Europe
- More travel days for the same budget
By spending less per day, you can extend your itinerary or include more cities on your route without increasing your overall budget. - More authentic cultural connection
Many of these cities are not saturated with tourism, allowing for a more local and genuine experience. - A variety of landscapes and experiences.
From medieval castles to hidden beaches and towering mountains, there are options for all tastes. - Flexible accommodations:
You can find hostel beds for less than €20 to 3-star hotels for less than €70. - Ideal for combined Eurotrips.
Many of these cities are well connected to each other by trains, buses, or low-cost flights, making it easy to create efficient routes.
11 Budget-Friendly European Cities to Visit in 2025 (with Estimated Daily Budgets)
- Sofia (Bulgaria) – From €37.42/day
The Bulgarian capital is now part of the Schengen Area, making it easier to travel around Europe without additional immigration controls. Rich in history, with low prices, and well connected to other eastern cities. - Bucharest (Romania) – From €38/day
A city with eclectic architecture, museums, nightlife, and a direct connection to rural landscapes and the castle that inspired Dracula. You can stay, eat, travel, and enjoy for very little. - Budapest (Hungary) – From €44.50/day.
One of the most beautiful capitals on the continent. Spas, castles, viewpoints, bridges, and a vibrant nightlife. Prices remain low, especially during the mid-season. - Sarajevo (Bosnia and Herzegovina) – From €45/day.
A city with a rich history and a fascinating cultural mix. Ideal for those looking to learn while traveling. Mid-range hotel for around €72/night. - Český Krumlov (Czech Republic) – From €47/day
A fairytale city. More picturesque and cheaper than Prague, this Czech gem is perfect for escaping mass tourism. - Zagreb (Croatia) – From €47/day.
While Croatia is famous for its coastline, its capital is charming and much more affordable. If you prefer a hotel, the budget goes up to around €87/day. - Belgrade (Serbia) – From €47.6/day
With Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian history, a renowned nightlife, and a relaxed atmosphere. Ideal for walking tours and free walking tours. - Krakow (Poland) – From €50/day.
With its well-preserved historic center, it’s one of the most charming and accessible cities in Eastern Europe. Hotels start at €70/night. - Riga (Latvia) – From €51/day.
A vibrant and modern Baltic capital, it’s ideal for a trip to the three Baltic countries. Stunning cuisine and architecture. - Warsaw (Poland) – From €53/day
Modern, green, and very well connected. While it lacks the medieval charm of Krakow, its cultural offerings and affordable prices make it attractive. - Skopje (North Macedonia) – Not always on the radar, but incredibly cheap, with museums, monumental squares, and delicious food for ridiculously low prices. An interesting addition to an alternative Eurotrip.
How to organize your budget-friendly trip to Europe step by step
- Define your priorities
. Do you prefer to explore many cities or spend more time in a few? Are you looking for nature, history, or nightlife? - Choose cities with connections
Use apps like Rome2Rio or Google Flights to find affordable land or air routes between these cities. - Book in advance.
Accommodation and transportation are much cheaper if you book weeks in advance. - Use eSIM or local SIM cards for internet.
Options like Holafly offer unlimited data in Europe from €6/day. Staying connected saves you money on browsing, transportation, and quick decisions. - Eat like a local.
Prioritize small restaurants, markets, and bakeries. Set meals are a great way to save money. - Take advantage of free or tipped tours.
Free walking tours are ideal for understanding the city from day one. - Travel light.
Carrying only hand luggage avoids extra costs on low-cost airlines and gives you more freedom.
Extra tips to make the most of your low-cost trip
- Check out portals like Price of Travel to compare average prices by city.
- Avoid large events or festivals if your goal is to save money (they can drive up the price of accommodation).
- Choose accommodations with a kitchen so you can prepare some meals yourself.
- Make a list of free or low-cost attractions : museums, parks, viewing points, and cultural events.
Traveling around Europe without spending a lot is more real than you imagine.
You don’t need a multimillion-dollar budget to discover Europe. If you choose strategically and maintain a flexible mindset, you can tour castles, taste local delicacies, immerse yourself in new cultures, and enjoy unforgettable landscapes for much less than you think.
Start planning your adventure today. Choose two or three cities from this list, plan your route, adjust your budget, and get going. Your budget-friendly European trip of 2025 is closer than you think.
