10 Cheapest Cities to Visit in Europe

Travelling to Europe (from outside Europe especially) is definitely not known for being the most affordable. Even for Europeans, there are some cities in Europe that are still rather expensive to visit. But despite this, there are so many other cities in Europe that are great to visit and at a fraction of the price! This is why I asked some fellow travel bloggers to share some of their favourite cheapest cities to visit in Europe!

A lot of times, the cheapest cities to visit in Europe are actually some of the most beautiful and well worth the visit. That’s why in this list of cities shared you don’t have to worry about sacrificing quality or a great experience for price when choosing your destination.

So here are 10 of the Cheapest cities to visit in Europe! Enjoy!

1. Andalusia, Spain

Contributed by Joanna from Andalucía in my Pocket

Andalucia is one of the cheapest sunny destinations in Europe. The main airport of the region is in Malaga, to which you can easily find flights for under £50 return. Besides the gorgeous beaches and the famous Costa del Sol, Andalucia also has historical cities and is home to the highest mountain range in continental Spain. Andalucia is also a wine producer, with the most famous area being the Jerez Triangle. Visiting a sherry bodega is actually one of the most interesting things to do in Jerez de la Frontera.

Accommodation in Andalucia is very affordable. The more away you go from the touristy spots (mainly Costa del Sol), the cheaper accommodation becomes. For example, I stayed at a gorgeous four stars hotel in an old monastery, near Antequera, for only 75 euros a night with breakfast, spa and parking included.

If you visit Granada and its coast, for every drink you order you will get a free tapa. The more you drink in the same place, the better the tapas are. 

2. Algarve, Portugal

Contributed by Campbell & Alya of Stingy Nomads

Although these are regions, Alentejo and the Algarve regions in Southern Portugal have some of the cheapest cities to visit in Europe. Both boast endless sandy beaches, rugged coastline, charming towns, and sunny weather throughout the year. It’s a great choice for a beach holiday on a budget. Accommodation doesn’t have to be expensive here; there are many campsites and caravan parks along the coast. Prefer staying indoors@ Hostels are the cheapest option at about 15 Euro for a bed. Most hostels are well-located; close to beaches, restaurants, supermarkets, and bus stations.

There are some amazing multi-day hiking trails, great surfing spots, and scenic cycling routes in the region. You can get around without a car here as there are regular short and long-distance public buses. To get to the Algarve from Lisbon by bus costs 20 Euro. July and August are the busiest months so avoid this time as prices increase quite a bit.

3. Paros, Greece

Contributed by Ellie from Ellies Travel Tips

Paros truly balances the best aspects of Greece with affordability, earning the high honour of being the cheapest Greek island to visit on a budget-friendly vacation in Europe. To start with, getting to Paros is both simple and affordable. A quick, 3-hour ferry from Athens will comfortably bring you to Paros for around £40 ($60).

One of the best things to do in Paros is strolling around the Cycladic village of Lefkes. Visiting this village is completely free, but make sure to stop into one of the local eateries to try some authentic, homemade ice cream.

Another great spot to explore is Paros Park. This protected seaside area is free to explore, offering an intertwining network of walking paths, rock formations, hidden coves, caves, and beaches.

If you are looking to another beautiful beach, head over to Kolymbithres Beach, which is frequently noted as the top beach on Paros.

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4. Bruges, Belgium

Contributed by Debbie from WorldAdventurists.com

The picturesque medieval town of Bruges is a historic canal city where you will feel like you have walked straight into a fairy-tale. Bruges is extremely easy to get around on foot, but renting a bike is a budget-friendly option that will allow you to adventure further than you could on your own two feet.

Take an early morning wander to enjoy the cobbled lanes, medieval Flemish architecture and bridges and canals. Or join a free walking tour.

It would not be a trip to Belgium without a Belgian waffle, frites and beer. Choose from a variety of toppings for the waffles and dipping sauces for the frites. For melt-in-your-mouth chocolate, do not miss the samples on Wollestraat, where the street is full of chocolate shops. Take a tour at family-owned Brouwerij De Halve Maan Brugge. It includes a drink and panoramic city view, all for around €10.

5. Vilnius, Lithuania

Contributed by Evelina from EvBeing

Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania is regarded as one of the cheapest cities to visit in Europe. Steeped in a rich history, also boasting stunning architecture, the city boasts a range of good things to do to enjoy Vilnius on a budget. Among the cheap things to do is a visit to the alternative local community, known as Užupis. Besides Uzupis, explore the grand Bell Tower of Vilnius Cathedral for 5 euros and discover more about the history of Literatu street. While Gediminas Hill’s breath-taking sunset views will blow you away, the Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights is among the must-attractions of Vilnius. Enriched with delightful tastes at affordable cost, Vilnius is a culinary paradise. Eat and drink well for less in the various restaurants Vilnius offers for an average price of 12 euros.

6. Crete, Greece

Contributed by Marielle from Off Beat Escapades

Located South of the Aegean Sea, Crete is the biggest Greek island, filled with adventure and also one of the cheapest cities/places to visit in Europe! The prices are super affordable versus the sights and activities available.

For example, you can have a filling Gyro for as low as 5 euros or even share a complete meal set including 2 Greek Salads, an extra-large Gyros Rice Plate, and 2 bottles of Mythos Beer for 20 euros. Accommodation is also very cheap in comparison to Mykonos or Santorini. You can find an Airbnb or hotel for as low as 200 euros for a week.

Finally, what makes Crete one of the cheapest cities/places to visit in Europe are all the free activities available. From touring ancient towns like Chania and Heraklion to discovering more than 440 hiking trails through majestic Gorges, hidden white-washed villages like Loutro Crete, and the coastline of the Libyan Sea. You can even spend a month discovering the island without breaking the bank!

7. Cinque Terre, Italy

Contributed by Jess from Tourist to Travellers

Cinque terre : Say the name and a picture of colour popped houses sprawling down the cliff to meet the sparkling ocean, lush vineyards, harbours filled with fishing boats comes to one’s mind.

Though accommodation in 5T is expensive, one can park themselves in La Spezia. It’s a neighbouring town and one can travel to 5T by train which is the most convenient and cheapest mode of transport.

Here’s a list of some free/cheap things to do in 5T;

• Trot along in CT and explore the villages by foot.
• Enjoy a day at the beach in Riomaggiore or Monterosso that’s right next to the train station
• Go cliff diving in Manarola or enjoy sunset by sitting at Nessun Dorma restaurant.
• My personal favourite is hiking from Monterroso to Vernazza as the trail offers some of the most panoramic views.
• Visit churches in Corniglia.

8. Split, Croatia

Contributed by Ankita from My Travelling Stilettos

Split in Croatia has a charming medieval town inside the Diocletian palace by the sea. Despite a hike in traveling costs in Croatia in recent years, Split can be visited on a budget.

There is a lot of fun and free things to do in Split like walk by the Riva, take a free walking tour to explore the 1700 years old palace, its town gates, bell tower, ancient Roman columns, the Egyptian Sphinx. The walking tour ends at peristyle, the center of the palace which holds open-air concerts almost every day. Enjoy the concert with a beer from a local store. Catch local ferries to nearby islands Hvar, Korcula for a perfect day trip.

Avoid eating out in the old town. Rather stock up from the Pazar market. Try local foods outside the city centre where locals eat. We had pizza, salad, grilled chicken, and beers under 25 euro for 4 of us.

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9. Agistri, Greece

Contributed by Lotte from Eschbach Consulting 

Agistri is a small island that can easily be reached from Athens and one oc the cheapest cities to vsit in Europe. Agistri remains a relatively undiscovered gem without the crowds that swarm Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete. 

Consequently, the prices at Agistri are much lower than at well-known Greek Islands. For example, getting to Agistri by ferry only costs €11,50 for a one-way ticket. Accommodation can be very affordable as well, for example, we paid €35 per night for a basic Airbnb room with a private bathroom in the village centre of Skala.  

Agistri may be a small island but there are plenty of (budget-friendly) activities. Rent a bike to explore the island or go for a walk. A nice easy walk (even with a stroller) is from Megalochori to Dragonera Beach (about 30 minutes one-way). Dragonera beach is one of the prettiest beaches on Agistri Island and an excellent place to spend an afternoon.  

10. Brasov, Romania

Contributed by Richard from RJontour

Brasov is a beautiful city in the heart of the Transylvania region of Romania. The city is in the Carpathian mountains and a great place for hiking or in the winter taking part in winter sports. Accommodation, food and entertainment are all cheaper than much of Europe in Brasov, the ski resort is also one of the cheapest in Europe. Traditional Romanian meals out cost from £4 and a large beer typical costs about £1.50.

Fun activities to enjoy in Brasov include exploring the historical old town area, including the iconic gothic black church. Brasov has a mountain you can climb from the town centre, Mount Tampa, this is walkable or you could get a cable car. It is also near Bran Castle of Dracula fame, a great option for a day trip. Brasov is one of the cheapest European destinations to visit for those that enjoy the outdoors, beautiful mountains and history.

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I hope you’ve enjoyed this post and a HUGE thank you to all he bloggers that contributed! Are there any more cities that I missed off? Share them in the comments!

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Until next time xx,