The 7 cheapest cities in Europe 

Embarking on a European adventure doesn’t have to be synonymous with emptying your pockets. In this guide, we’re diving into the heart of some of Europe’s most charming cities, where the streets are paved with history, the food is a feast for the senses, and your wallet can breathe a sigh of relief. Join me as we navigate the vibrant landscapes of Bucharest, Sofia, Krakow, Lisbon, Porto, Riga, Belgrade, and Budapest. These cities offer not just affordability but an authentic and unforgettable experience. So, let’s lace up those comfy shoes and set forth on a journey filled with budget-friendly wonders and everlasting memories! 

Sofia, Bulgaria: 

Sofia – the capital of Bulgaria – is a city in Eastern Europe where prices are generally lower compared to Western Europe. It has a rich history and offers good value for money. 

Accommodation:

Sofia provides affordable accommodation options, including budget hotels and hostels. “Hostel Mostel Sofia” is a budget-friendly option with a social atmosphere.  “Sense Hotel Sofia” offers a central location and modern amenities. 

Food:

Bulgarian cuisine is diverse and budget-friendly. You can find affordable street food, traditional dishes, and international options. Try “Made in Home” for delicious banitsa (pastry) and other Bulgarian street food. “Shtastlivetza” serves traditional Bulgarian dishes in a cozy setting. 

Transportation:

Public transportation, such as trams and buses, is cost-effective and well-connected. Taxis are reasonably priced. Walking is a great way to explore the city center, especially around Vitosha Boulevard. 

Attractions:

Sofia’s attractions include Alexander Nevsky Cathedral which is iconic and has a stunning interior, and the National Palace of Culture, with many affordable entrance fees. Take a day trip to Vitosha Mountain for outdoor activities and panoramic views. 

Entertainment:

The city has a lively nightlife scene, with bars and clubs catering to various tastes and budgets. Enjoy shopping, dining, and street performances along Vitosha Boulevard. Nightlife in Studentski Grad is youthful, and you can explore nightlife with numerous bars and clubs. 

Budapest, Hungary:

Budapest – the capital of Hungary – is a popular destination with a mix of history, culture, and thermal baths. Prices are relatively lower than in Western European capitals. 

Accommodation:

You can find a variety of accommodation options, including budget-friendly hostels, guesthouses, and mid-range hotels. The prices for staying in these accommodations are generally lower compared to similar options in cities like Paris or London. ”Retox Party Hostel” is renowned for its lively atmosphere and social events. “Hotel Moments Budapest” offers a central location and modern amenities. 

Food:

Budapest offers a diverse culinary scene with a mix of traditional Hungarian dishes and international cuisine. Local markets and street food stalls provide affordable options for those on a budget. Dining in restaurants is also relatively less expensive compared to Western European cities. Don’t miss Central Market Hall: Explore the market for local produce, snacks, and Hungarian specialties. Visit “Szimpla Kert” or “Instant” for a unique experience in Budapest’s famous ruin bars. 

Transportation:

Public transportation, such as buses, trams, and the metro, is cost-effective and well-connected. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also more affordable compared to many Western European capitals. Budapest’s metro system is efficient, and a Budapest Card provides access to public transportation and discounts! Choose “Danube River Cruise” and enjoy a scenic cruise on the Danube River, offering a different perspective of the city. 

Attractions:

Budapest is known for its thermal baths, historic sites, and vibrant cultural scene.  Explore the historic Buda Castle complex and enjoy panoramic views of the Danube. At Fisherman’s Bastion admire the fairy-tale-like architecture and breathtaking views of Pest. Many of the city’s attractions, including Buda Castle and the Fisherman’s Bastion, offer reasonable entrance fees or are even free to enter. 

Entertainment:

The nightlife in Budapest is famous for being lively and affordable. Bars and clubs often have reasonable prices for drinks and entrance fees, making it an attractive destination for budget-conscious travelers. Explore the vibrant nightlife in the Jewish Quarter, with bars like “Mazel Tov” or “Instant Fogas.” Relax at the famous Széchenyi Thermal Bath or Gellért Baths for a unique Budapest experience. 

Bucharest, Romania:  

Bucharest –the capital of Romania – is also known for its affordability. Visitors can find reasonably priced accommodation, food, and transportation, making it a cost-effective destination. 

Accommodation:

Bucharest offers a range of accommodation options, such as “Podstel Bucharest”, which is a popular budget-friendly hostel known for its welcoming atmosphere and central location. “Rembrandt Hotel Bucharest” offers comfortable mid-range accommodation with modern amenities. 

Food:

The city has a diverse culinary scene, with affordable street food, traditional Romanian dishes, and international cuisine available. Dining in local restaurants is usually budget-friendly. Try “Caru’ cu Bere” for traditional Romanian dishes in a historic setting. Grab a quick and affordable bite at “La Placinte” for delicious pastries and pies. 

Transportation:

Public transportation, including buses and the metro, is cost-effective. Taxis are also relatively inexpensive; consider using apps like Bolt for easy rides. Walking is a good option for exploring the city center. Bucharest’s metro system is efficient and affordable. A rechargeable metro card provides convenience for getting around.  

Attractions:

Bucharest boasts historic sites like the Palace of the Parliament. It’s one of the world’s heaviest buildings and has guided tours available. At The Village Museum you can discover traditional Romanian village life in this open-air museum. 

Entertainment:

The city has a vibrant nightlife with a variety of bars and clubs offering reasonably priced drinks and entertainment. Enjoy the vibrant nightlife in the Old Town, with bars like “Nomad Skybar” offering great views and cocktails. 

Krakow, Poland:

Krakow is a historic city in Poland known for its well-preserved architecture. It’s often considered more affordable than other European capitals like Warsaw or Prague. 

Accommodation:

Krakow offers a range of accommodation options, including budget hostels and mid-range hotels. “Greg & Tom Hostel” is known for its social atmosphere and central location. “Hotel Stary” offers luxury and historic charm in the heart of the city. 

Food:

Polish cuisine is hearty and reasonably priced. You can find affordable pierogi (dumplings) and other local dishes. “Pierogarnia Krakowiacy” serves a variety of delicious pierogi at affordable prices. “Miod i Wino” offers Polish dishes in a cozy setting. 

Transportation:

Public transportation is cost-effective, and a Krakow Card provides access to public transportation and museums. Walking is a great way to explore the charming city center (The Old Town). Taxis are relatively affordable.  

Attractions:

Krakow is known for its historic Old Town, Wawel Castle, and Auschwitz-Birkenau.  Wawel Castle is a historic castle complex with its beautiful gardens. You can take a day trip to the sobering Auschwitz concentration camp. Many attractions have reasonable entrance fees or are free.

Entertainment:

The city has a vibrant nightlife with pubs, jazz clubs, and other entertainment venues. In Kazimierz District (Jewish Quarter) you can enjoy the vibrant nightlife with bars like “Alchemia” offering live music and a bohemian atmosphere.  

Porto, Portugal:  

Porto is a Portuguese city that is often more affordable than Lisbon. It has a charming atmosphere and is famous for its port wine. 

Accommodation:

Porto provides a range of accommodation options, with budget-friendly hostels and mid-range hotels. “Bluesock Hostels Porto” offers a stylish and social environment. “Vincci Porto” provides a comfortable stay with modern amenities. 

Food:

Porto is known for its seafood and Francesinha sandwich. Eating out is generally reasonably priced, and you can find affordable local markets. “Café Santiago” is famous for its Francesinha sandwich. You can try port wine and tapas at “Graham’s Port Lodge.” 

Transportation:

Public transportation is cost-effective, with trams and buses covering the city. Taxis are reasonably priced.  Take a traditional Rabelo boat along the Douro River. Explore the Ribeira district and the historic city center on foot. 

Attractions:

Visit this iconic bookstore – Livraria Lello – with its stunning architecture. Ribeira District: Experience the charm of Porto’s riverside district, Ribeira District. Entrance fees for attractions are usually reasonable. 

Entertainment:

The city has a vibrant nightlife scene with wine bars, Fado performances, and waterfront clubs. Explore wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia, with tastings at “Sandeman” or “Taylor’s.” Enjoy panoramic views and cocktails at rooftop bars like “Base” or “The Yeatman.” 

Riga, Latvia:  

Riga – the capital of Latvia – offers a mix of history and modernity at a relatively lower cost compared to Western European cities. 

Accommodation:

Riga offers a mix of accommodation options. “The Naughty Squirrel Backpackers Hostel” is known for its social vibe. “Grand Palace Hotel Riga” offers luxury and a central location. 

Food:

Latvian cuisine includes hearty dishes, and you can find budget-friendly options in local eateries and markets. Dining out is reasonably priced. Explore Riga Central Market for affordable local produce and snacks or try traditional Latvian dishes at the popular chain “Lido.” 

Transportation:

Public transportation, including trams and buses, is cost-effective. Taxis are relatively affordable. Walking is a great way to explore the Art Nouveau architecture in the historic center.  

Attractions:

Riga features the Old Town with its charming cobblestone streets and landmarks like the House of Blackheads. Art Nouveau architecture and the Freedom Monument is the iconic symbol of Latvian independence.  

Entertainment:

Explore a unique atmosphere and cocktails at the “Black Magic Bar” in Old Town. Enjoy classical music concerts in the impressive Riga Cathedral. 

Belgrade, Serbia:

Belgrade – the capital of Serbia – is known for its vibrant nightlife and historical sites. The cost of living and travel in Belgrade is generally lower than in many Western European capitals. 

Accommodation:

Belgrade offers various accommodation options, including budget-friendly hostels and mid-range hotels. “Hostelche” is a budget-friendly option in a central location. “Hotel Moskva” offers a historic stay with modern amenities. 

Food:

Serbian cuisine is diverse, and you can find affordable options in local restaurants and markets.  Explore this bohemian quarter for traditional Serbian cuisine at restaurants like “Tri Šešira” in Skadarlija District. Try “Burek inns” for affordable and delicious burek pastries. 

Transportation:

Public transportation is cost-effective, with buses and trams covering the city, and the Belgrade Card provides access to public transportation and museums. Taxis are reasonably priced. Walking is convenient along Knez Mihailova Street and in the city center.  

Attractions:

Belgrade features historical sites like Kalemegdan Fortress and the Temple of Saint Sava. Kalemegdan Fortress is a historic fortress with panoramic views of the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers. The Temple of Saint Sava is the largest Orthodox church in the Balkans. 

Entertainment: 

Explore Belgrade’s famous nightlife on floating clubs along the Danube, such as “Freestyler.” Enjoy live music performances at the Students’ Cultural Center (KST). 

Bon Voyage and Beyond! 

I hope you’ve found inspiration for your next adventure. From the enchanting streets of Lisbon to the historic corners of Belgrade, each city on this budget-friendly list has its unique charm waiting to be discovered. Keep in mind that travel costs can change over time, and economic conditions, as well as tourism trends, may impact prices. It’s a good idea to check the most recent travel information and budget estimates before planning your trip. 

Whether you’re a solo traveler seeking solitude, a couple in search of romantic hideaways, or a group of friends ready to paint the town, these cities offer a palette of experiences that won’t break the bank. So, pack your curiosity, grab your map (or let’s be real, your smartphone), and venture into the richness of Europe without worrying about your wallet. So, Happy travel!