So, the travel bug has bitten, but the bank account doesn’t agree? Well, that doesn’t mean you have to put your European travel plans off altogether. We’ve put together a little guide for avid travellers who would like to explore some of Europe’s most budget-friendly cities so you can have your European adventure without breaking the bank.
Before setting off on your journey, check out Crown Currency, the company that helps you get the best exchange rates when converting your dollars to euros. This will make all the difference in stretching your budget that much further on your travels.
1. Athens, Greece
Mamma Mia! Greece is the ultimate travel destination for anyone who dreams of going on a holiday where you can experience crystal-clear waters, eat the freshest seafood, reminisce over ancient history and have fun with the locals. Greece’s capital, Athens, has become one of the cheapest locations, especially between the months of April and early June. The accommodation in Athens offers great value for money, as you’ll find charming, family-run villas and boutique hotels with balcony views around every corner.
One aspect that makes Athens one of the most affordable European capitals is that it’s incredibly easy to explore on foot or grab a bus if you want to see more of this historic city. It’s definitely a destination for the foodies, and you’ll find plenty of local tavernas, farmers markets and affordable restaurants with the freshest, most authentic Grecian delicacies.
2. Lisbon, Portugal
Another city for the foodies on a budget, Lisbon, needs to be on your list of cities to visit. You have not lived until you’ve had a pastel de nata from Pastéis de Belém or dined at one of the many award-winning restaurants where you can have a three-course meal. However, food isn’t all this Portuguese capital is known for, as there are tons of affordable hotels and Airbnbs to choose from.
Exploring the city isn’t difficult at all, thanks to the tram, which you can ride for around €3.00. Either that or, for the fitter tourists, you could opt to explore the hilly city on foot for a bit of a workout. You’ll definitely earn those pastel de natas!
3. Lille, France
What would a trip to Europe be without setting foot on French soil? For those on a shoestring budget, Lille is the perfect destination, a la France. It might not have the Eiffel Tower, but it offers a wealth of history and culture, with tons of museums and architecture to admire, you know, without paying Paris’ prices.
For serious treasure hunters, the perfect time to visit this scenic town is during September, when the city transforms into the biggest flea market in Europe, offering 100km of nothing but an open-air market. And unlike its cosmopolitan neighbour, where Parisians have somewhat unfairly been labelled as unfriendly or rude, Lille has been voted as one of the friendliest French cities, time and time again.
4. Klagenfurt, Austria
Escaping to Austria doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg when you visit Klagenfurt. This picturesque city on the eastern bank of Lake Wörthersee is one of Austria’s most affordable destinations, where main courses typically cost around $11, and accommodation isn’t too bad either, with the average room in a 3-star hotel costing €80.00. A huge draw for bargain hunters is the farmers’ market on Benediktinerplatz. The cheapest time to visit? Try June, which is just before the summer crowds and swimmers flock to the waterside.
5. Riga, Latvia
Prepare to be charmed and pleasantly surprised by the beauty and affordability of Riga, Latvia. As it stands, Riga is one of the cheapest cities in Europe, thanks to its cheap accommodation (not far behind Athens) and delightfully inexpensive cuisine.
While this city may be synonymous with affordability by European standards, it’s rich with arts and culture as it holds the UNESCO Heritage Site, Old Town, the Art Nouveau Museum on Alberta Street and the luxurious Opera House. You can also watch free live music in Dome Square and see architecture such as the curiously named House of the Blackheads.
Riga also offers a lot of natural beauty for those who want to spend time outdoors, as the beach is only 30 minutes from the city centre, and you can explore the lush forest that surrounds the city. For a unique opportunity, experience Riga by paddleboard for $27 on the banks of the Daugava River.
6. Sofia, Bulgaria
Who said ski resorts were out of the question when you’re on a budget? Well, not only does Bulgaria wow tourists with cheap entertainment and beverages, but it’s also home to some of Europe’s cheapest ski resorts. When visiting Sofia, visitors are only 10km away from the Vitosha Mountains, which is the perfect place for snow bunnies on a budget. That’s not all; for anyone who loves the nightlife, Sofia is also notorious for its thriving party scene, with entry to clubs like Culture Beat typically costing about $20.00, where you can party the night away on a beautiful summer terrace.
Final Thoughts
Travelling Europe on a budget gives you the unique experience of finding places and deals that not many people would usually see. So, when you think about it, in some way, it’s quite the advantage because you’ll be avoiding the tourist traps and creating a more bespoke experience. So, if you don’t have the funds to tour The 7th arrondissement of Paris, don’t write off your European adventure, but set out to explore these beautiful yet affordable European cities.