The vacation season is approaching and you’re looking for your next destination. No need to travel to the other side of the world to get away from it all, Europe has everything to please: diverse cultures, wild landscapes, exhilarating European capitals… But the budget can quickly escalate in the most trendy European destinations. So, where to travel cheaply in Europe? We have prepared a selection of 17 Cheapest European Countries To visit, perfect for small budgets! Of course, all the destinations below offer a wide choice of HomeExchange accommodations to travel cheaply and like a local thanks to home exchange! So, discover below our recommendations for cheap holidays in Europe!
17 Cheapest European Countries to Visit
1/17 | Budapest, Hungary
Considered the “Pearl of the Danube”, Budapest is an inexpensive destination that travelers know mainly for its quality thermal springs. But, the Hungarian capital also has an incredible historical and architectural heritage! Between the castle, the Chain Bridge, and Heroes’ Square, your trip to the city center should keep you busy for a while.
Budapest is also very appreciated for the greenery it offers. Margaret Island’s green islet natural park is very popular and particularly conducive to relaxation. Finally, the panorama of the Danube that it can offer is incredible. You should also know that the Danube Delta has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as it is home to more than 300 species of birds and 45 species of freshwater fish. One of the best-preserved European deltas to date.
It takes about 200 euros for a round trip flight from Paris, and 100 euros for a night in a 3-star hotel.
2/17 | Algarve, Portugal
The Algarve region is located in the southwest of Portugal and offers a Mediterranean climate, particularly pleasant and favorable for sunny vacations. It is an inexpensive destination that will undoubtedly suit small budgets or family vacations.
It has the particularity of being made up of beaches, cliffs, and mountains in a single landscape. The setting is therefore incredible and the towns and small villages that compose it are all more charming than the others. I advise you to go for a walk in Faro, Carvoeiro, or even Ferragudo, magnificent cities filled with stories and anecdotes. In general, the Algarve has a very rich historical heritage since it is a region that has seen many civilizations pass through.
And why not a road trip to the Algarve?
But, the Algarve is also an opportunity to enjoy the magnificent beaches and the long stretches of fine sand. It is, therefore, a favorite destination to watch your budget, while resting to the maximum.
Depending on the destination city, it takes about 100 euros for a round-trip flight from Paris, and 100 euros for a night in a 3-star hotel.
3/17 | Andalusia, Spain
Among the most affordable regions in Europe, Andalusia is definitely at the top of the list. Between Cordoba, Granada, Seville, Toledo and Cadiz, there is no shortage of magnificent cities. It is a region with an incredible historical, architectural, and natural heritage. You will be able to find an activity that will surely meet your expectations. Between museums, historical monuments, and national parks, it will be difficult not to find happiness.
I also recommend you visit the Doñana National Park, which is one of the largest protected natural sites on the continent. Listed as a World Heritage Site, it is home to more than 500,000 waterfowl each year during the winter period, as well as 300 different vertebrate species throughout the year.
Also, note that the cost of living is 30% cheaper than in France. Depending on the city of destination, it is necessary to count approximately 80 euros, for a round trip flight from Paris, and 80 euros for one night in a 3-star hotel.
4/17 | Prague, Czech Republic
Generally speaking, the Czech Republic is an inexpensive country in Europe to travel to on a small budget. The capital, Prague, is one of the most affordable European capitals, and I assure you that you will have plenty to do! It has a very dense historical and architectural heritage, which will surely amaze you. It is of such beauty that it is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Often nicknamed the “city of a hundred spires,” Prague is a city full of surprises and architectural wonders. You will also discover that it is a very developed cultural place. Its nightlife is particularly known to be active throughout the year.
It takes about 100 euros for a round-trip flight from Paris and 100 euros for one night in a 3-star hotel. Being an increasingly popular destination, I advise you to book as early as possible to get better rates.
5/17 | Ljubljana, Slovenia
It’s impossible to present you with inexpensive countries in Europe for travel without mentioning Slovenia. A country that has been in my heart for many years, is so incredible. Very discreet on the European scene, it still wins the hearts of travelers and is becoming increasingly popular.
The capital of Ljubljana, meaning “the beloved” in Slovenian, was elected “European Green Capital” in 2016, and I must admit that it amply deserves it! It is a very green city where nature and human life are in perfect harmony. But what I appreciate most in Slovenia is the perfect combination of mountainous landscapes, turquoise lakes, caves, and historical monuments. Whether you are a sports enthusiast, a history buff, or a fan of idleness, Slovenia will seduce you!
It takes about 100 euros for a round-trip flight from Paris and 100 euros for one night in a 3-star hotel.
6/17 | Sardinia, Italy
Close to Corsica, Sardinia is a rather affordable destination to spend your holidays on an island. On the program, relaxation, beaches with crystal clear waters, hiking, Italian gastronomy and nautical activities. I think there are more difficult destinations!
The island is so beautiful that it also attracts people. Do not hesitate to go for a walk on the Emerald Coast, this is where you can see some celebrities and the many yachts docked.
Sardinia is easily accessible since you can get there by ferry if you come from the south of France or Corsica. And, it is also an opportunity to perhaps make a stop by the Boot, which is only a few kilometers from the island.
It takes about 150 euros for a round trip flight from Paris, and 150 euros for one night in a 3-star hotel.
7/17 | Dublin, Ireland
For a less exotic destination, but one that remains just as charming, I suggest Dublin. The capital of Ireland is known mainly for its lakes and magnificent castles. A medieval city that has not lost its charm and continues to attract Guinness enthusiasts.
It is a very popular low-cost destination for holidays with your partner or friends. Between the pubs, cafes, and museums, there will be plenty to keep you busy throughout your stay. Don’t miss out on a visit to the Guinness Storehouse, a must-see if you like beer. Finally, if you have the opportunity, go see a hurling match at Croke Park Stadium. The opportunity for you to discover a Gaelic sport, a true religion in the country!
It takes about 50 euros for a round trip flight from Paris, and 150 euros for one night in a 3-star hotel.
8/17 | Vilnius, Lithuania
For a vacation in an affordable European country, Vilnius is certainly a very good choice. The capital of Lithuania, it remains a city on a human scale, very pleasant if you do not want to be in a place too crowded with tourists. It has a crazy charm and its Old Town is also worth a place in the UNESCO World Heritage.
Between the bohemian district of Uzupis, the Gediminas Tower, the Halès Market, or the many museums of the city, if you are fond of history and architecture, I doubt you will be disappointed with this holiday in Vilnius. Finally, do not hesitate to walk along the two rivers that border Vilnius. The setting is very peaceful and ideal for relaxing after a long day of sightseeing.
It takes about 100 euros for a round trip flight from Paris, and 70 euros for one night in a 3-star hotel.
9/17 |Brussels, Belgium
Much less surprising and much closer to France than some other destinations, Belgium remains an inexpensive country in Europe for a romantic weekend. I am thinking in particular of Brussels which is a magnificent city and without a doubt one of the most beautiful in Europe.
On the program, the Manneken-Pis, the royal palace, the Grand Place, the various parks, or the culinary specialties, a stay in Brussels promises you many surprises. For more “natural” walks, I advise you to go and discover the Mini-Europe park or the Bois de la Cambre which will offer you charming places.
It takes about 30 euros for a round trip train from Paris, and 200 euros for one night in a 3-star hotel.
10/17 | Croatia
Undoubtedly, the cheapest country in Europe par excellence, ideal for traveling on a small budget. Croatia is a magnificent country that will appeal to all travelers looking for relaxation and a gentle vacation.
Between the towns and villages of the country, you can also go to discover the many beaches and islands that compose it. No less than 698 islands in the Croatian landscape, with idyllic beaches from April to October.
On the visiting side, I doubt you’ll be bored! Whether it’s Split, Pula, Zadar, Trogir, or Dubrovnik, Croatia has many surprises in store for you. It is a country with a strong historical and natural heritage. Moreover, plan to visit the Krka National Park or the waterfalls of the Plitvice National Park. Something to marvel at for a while!
Depending on the city of destination, it takes about 80 euros for a round-trip flight from Paris, and 70 euros for one night in a 3-star hotel. If you are heading to Dubrovnik, prices will tend to rise quickly.
11/17 | Santorini, Greece
Of course, it’s impossible to make this selection without mentioning the Cyclades, and more specifically Santorini. The archipelago has no less than 250 different islands, but among the most popular and least expensive, Santorini is at the top of the list.
An incredible destination to enjoy the Mediterranean setting, taste Greek culinary specialties, swim on the island’s beaches, or try all the nautical activities on offer. Life is sweet there and the landscapes are all more beautiful than the others.
Finally, if you like emblematic places and archaeological sites, do not miss to discover the ancient city of Thera or the ancient site of Akrotiri. Breathtaking and historic places.
It takes about 150 euros for a round trip flight from Paris, and 150 euros for one night in a 3-star hotel.
12/17 | Varna, Bulgaria
Bulgaria is one of the cheapest countries in Europe. Varna is the third largest city in Bulgaria and it borders the Black Sea. Not only does it offer you an incredible setting, but its historical and cultural heritage promises to impress you.
It is a destination that will appeal to small budgets, but also to curious nature lovers. Here, there is a good choice of hikes, sandy beaches, historical monuments, museums, and even dense forests. It must be said, that living by the Black Sea offers a very pleasant setting.
I advise you to get lost in the streets of Varna, you may be surprised by the multitude of buildings and historical monuments with the oriental architectural style of the 19th century. Finally, take the opportunity to try the culinary specialties or the wines of the region.
It takes about 130 euros for a round-trip flight from Paris, and 50 euros for one night in a 3-star hotel.
13/17 | Warsaw, Poland
An inexpensive country in Europe that we tend to forget for vacations, yet Warsaw is a very nice destination to get your fill of history and culture. Whether it’s for historical monuments, architecture, the old town, or the market square, there is always an incredible place hidden in every corner of the city.
There is also no shortage of activities, there are many museums, musical shows, tourist attractions, and restaurants. It is a city that will be ideal for a family vacation on a small budget.
It takes about 70 euros for a round trip flight from Paris, and 100 euros for one night in a 3-star hotel.
14/17 | Belgrade, Serbia
Belgrade is primarily known for its nightlife and being a popular destination for young travelers. And for good reason! Serbia is undoubtedly an inexpensive country in Europe where it’s easy to travel on a budget.
The capital is one of the oldest cities in Europe and therefore has a very rich historical and cultural heritage. Not only is it very pleasant for students, but it remains a preferred destination for family vacations. There are tons of things to do and see on site such as its fortress and its old town, the many museums, and the famous underground of the city.
Green spaces are also present and dominate the city, such as Kalemegdan Park, which is located near the Danube and Sava, or Mount Avala, which this time offers you a panorama of the whole city and its surroundings.
It takes about 50 euros for a round trip flight from Paris, and 100 euros for one night in a 3-star hotel.
15/17 | Tallinn, Estonia
Estonia is a Northern European country that is not well-known and remains quite discreet on the European scene. However, it is full of little wonders and largely deserves our attention. Besides Tallinn, the capital of the country, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Estonia has magnificent places throughout its territory.
I am thinking in particular of the island of Hiiumaa, which is located in the Baltic Sea and offers a picturesque setting and breathtaking landscapes. There is also the Lahemaa National Park, made up of forests, fine sandy beaches, lakes, and waterfalls. It is an incredible place and has been protected since 1971. In short, Estonia is a destination that will be ideal for lovers of architecture, worship, and nature.
It takes about 110 euros for a round-trip flight from Paris, and 70 euros for one night in a 3-star hotel.
16/17 | Moldova
Perhaps the cheapest country in Europe? Or not far off then. The cost of living is low in this country, especially when you come with euros. Admittedly, Moldova may not sound particularly dreamy on paper… No beaches, no mountains.
Okay, but you will have the privilege of traveling in a country off the beaten track, with a super welcoming population, a unique experience, especially if you push towards the ghost state of Transnistria. A crazy destination. Read Fabrice’s article, his travelogue in Transnistria.
You also have the Cricova wine cellars, an underground city, unique in the world. So, what do you think?
17/17 | Romania
Like Bulgaria, Romania is an affordable country in Europe. It’s truly an underrated destination in my opinion. Indeed, you have Transylvania, a hiker’s paradise, you have the Danube Delta, the Black Sea for partying, beautiful medieval cities, and the towns of Maramures, in short, there is almost everything.
For me, it’s the most beautiful country in Eastern Europe.
You now know which are the 17 cheapest countries in Europe to visit without breaking the bank. Destinations that require very little travel time, but that promise to take you away from it all in no time.
If you have other inexpensive destinations to recommend, feel free to share them in the comments!
