15 Cheapest Countries to Travel in Europe

15 Cheapest Countries to Travel in Europe

While regions such as Western Europe and the Nordics are known to be very expensive, there are also many countries in Europe where it’s much easier to travel on a budget.

The catch? Well, there is no catch really. Some of these destinations may just not be as well-known for tourism yet. For example, relatively few people go to Albania compared to Italy — but take it from me, it’s such an incredible and cheap country to visit in Europe!

The following destinations allow you to travel for under $70 (€60) or even under $50 (€40) a day per person, depending on your travel style.

Cheapest Countries in Europe

1. Romania

Home to many castles, colourful old towns, and gorgeous landscapes with primal forests, Romania is bound to surprise you. It also happens to be one of the cheapest countries to visit in Europe.

Its Transylvania region, associated with the legendary Count Dracula, is dotted with lovely Medieval towns and unique fortified churches. The nature in the heart of Romania is truly wild offering spectacular hiking trails and remote lodges where you can observe brown bears — essentially a kind of European safari.

Accommodation and dining are cheap. Many restaurants have set lunch menus for $4. It’s all about pork dishes, different stews, sausages, and cabbage rolls in Romania — and everything is tasty. Looking for a place to stay? Count on paying around $10 a night for hostels, while charming Airbnbs and budget hotels can be found for around $25-30 a night.

More about Romania:

2. Albania

Albania is a best-kept secret — and one of the cheapest European countries to visit.

Looking for an unspoiled Mediterranean beach? Albania still has these in spades. Meanwhile, Albania’s main mountain range, dramatically known as the Accursed Mountains, is an increasingly recognized region for hiking and climbing. Cultural highlights include the picturesque towns of Gjirokastër and Berat, owing to their Ottoman influences and UNESCO World Heritage Status.

The costs? As an indication, a bunk bed in a modern hostel in Tirana costs around $8 per night, while a room in a hotel can be booked for $15-$20. You can spend as little as $5 for a meal in a typical Albanian restaurant. Even if you dine in tourist restaurants, don’t expect to pay more than $12 for an appetizer, entrée, wine, and dessert. Such prices truly have more in common to certain budget travel favourites in Asia than the rest of Europe.

Although Albania is a developing country, it is very safe. Its infrastructure has also improved making travelling there now a lot easier. Go there before the word gets out.

More about Albania:

3. Greece

You are probably wondering how on Earth Greece ended up on this list.

Sure — the most famous tourist islands like Santorini, Rhodes, and Mykonos are definitely very pricey. When it’s peak season on Santorini, even a hostel dorm bed can cost upwards of $90 or €75.

But there are many amazing cities and islands in Greece that you can visit without breaking the bank. Instead of travelling to Mykonos, try spending a few nights on the lovely island of Tinos where you will find marble villages, terraces hillsides, beautiful beaches, and excellent deals on accommodation. The island of Lefkada is also home to affordable hotels, casual tavernas, and plenty of attractions. And there are plenty more examples.

Greece becomes much cheaper if you avoid August, the peak month for tourism. Airbnb’s that cost 60 to 90 Eur a night in August will easily drop to €30 – 40 in September. Oh, and Greece isn’t only about the islands. Greece’s mainland offers tons of cultural and historical highlights without the high prices seen on the package holiday islands. You may be surprised by how inexpensive Greece actually can be.

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4. Portugal

Known for its surfer beaches, cute old towns with tiled buildings, delicious pastries such as the pasteis de nata, and melancholic Fado music, Portugal has truly captured the spotlight in recent years

While prices in central Lisbon and Porto have increased somewhat in recent years, on the whole Portugal remains very budget-friendly.

Expect to pay about €15 a night for a hostel and €30 – 40 for a budget hotel in Lisbon or Porto. Meals in the capital may cost around €10-15. But you’ll get much lower prices if you explore the amazing countryside and the stunning Atlantic coastline, or if you head to Portugal’s third-biggest city of Coimbra, where J.K. Rowling once found inspiration for the Harry Potter novels. Head to the Portuguese interior and you can find set meals (pratos do dia) for as little as €6.

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5. Bosnia-Herzegovina

Okay, what do you know about Bosnia?

Don’t be embarrassed. Many people might not know much about this country at all, or they still associate it only with the conflict that raged there in the 1990s.

But this Balkan country is truly a hidden gem. If you’re a curious traveller, you will find so much to love in this authentic destination.

One highlight is the Medieval town of Mostar, once a key stop on the Silk Road trading routes between Venice and Constantinople. Another surprising highlight is the capital, Sarajevo, which (although small) I consider one of Europe’s most underrated capitals. With its fascinating blend of Austro-Hungarian and Ottoman influences, Sarajevo has a warmth and atmosphere you may not expect.

Prices are very reasonable too, with budget rooms not costing much more than €20 per night, and meals regularly in the €5-€8 range.

Given its proximity, Bosnia can make for an attractive add-on to a trip to the more expensive Croatia.

More about Bosnia:

6. Southern Italy

Wait… what’s Italy doing here?

I know, you may not necessarily think of Italy as a budget destination in Europe, especially if you’re thinking of places like Rome, Venice, or Milan.

But the situation is so different in the south of Italy that it may as well be a different country. While nowhere as economically prosperous as the north, Italy’s southern regions are also much more affordable to travel.

Take for example the region of Puglia, colloquially known as the heel of Italy’s boot. Here you can easily find beautiful B&Bs starting about €25 ($30), even at the heart of the ancient city of Lecce. Prices do go up during August when many Italians spend their summer holiday in the region, so it’s always best to avoid this peak season if you can.

Southern Italy is chock-full of cute towns with chalk-white houses, gentle olive grove landscapes, windy streets strewn with Vespas and Fiat 500’s, and tons of toe-tinglingly good beaches that are delightfully uncrowded.

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7. Estonia

Think of the Baltic state of Estonia as a little bit like Scandinavia… but on a budget.

Its landscapes are reminiscent of Finland, with its many pine forests and peatlands, while its people are similarly obsessed with saunas and cross-country skiing. Of course, Estonia has a character all to its own, mixing Nordic influences with Baltic culture and some remains of former USSR architecture. Don’t miss the fascinating KGB Museum at the Viru Hotel in Tallinn, hiking the Soomaa National Park, or staying in the university city of Tartu.

The tourist center in the capital of Tallinn is relatively expensive, closer to Western European prices at times, though this is only true for a small 2 square kilometer area where the cruise ship tourists go. The rest of Estonia is delightfully budget-friendly, with $10 hostels, $20-30 hotels, and $5-10 dinners easy to find.

More about Estonia:

8. Montenegro

While small in size, Montenegro has enough to keep travelers entertained for at least a couple of days. There are also many ways to save money here, from free entrances to most of the attractions to cheap apartments and hotels on the lovely Adriatic coast.

Start with a visit to the Bay of Kotor. With its deep blue waters surrounded by towering mountains, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most stunning places in the Balkan Peninsula. If you like to party, make your way to the coastal city of Budva, a city that never sleeps. If you are just looking for a relaxing and affordable vacation, you should consider a few nights in the lovely town of Herceg Novi.

As for the accommodation, you can find great places to stay for around $30 a night even in peak season. As for eating out, expect to pay $6-$12 for a meal in a restaurant, while a bottle of beer in a bar will set you back $3.

Make sure to try the local food delicacies such as pljeskavica (the Balkan version of a burger), cured meats like prsuto, seafood pasta with shellfish, prawns, and shrimps cooked in a delicious red sauce, and black risotto which is made from cuttlefish ink.

9. North Macedonia

Kaneo, Ohrid

With its delicious foods, lively culture, and super cute small towns, North Macedonia makes an ideal destination for a budget-friendly getaway. The capital city is called Skopje and has countless statues, museums, and other cultural attractions. However, a favorite destination is the picturesque Ohrid Lake, one of Europe’s oldest and deepest lakes. In the town of Ohrid, there are countless churches worth visiting and the local food is delicious and extremely cheap ($4-$6 for a meal in a restaurant). Other notable places of interest include Marko’s Towers in Prilep and the lovely town of Bitola.

Buses between cities are plentiful and cheap. For example, a return bus ticket from Skopje to Ohrid is priced $13 and the trip lasts for about 3 hours. As for the accommodation, expect to pay $25 per night for an apartment in the center of Skopje. In Ohrid, the price for rooms and apartments ranges from $15 to $30 a night. No visit to Macedonia is complete without trying the local foods such as pita (stuffed pie), sarma (cabbage rolls), tavce na gravce (beans cooked in a skillet), and Pastrmajlija (fried dough pie).

10. Bulgaria

Rila Lakes

Bulgaria is a beautiful country in Eastern Europe well-known for its diverse history, gorgeous architecture, and delicious cuisine. The city of Plovdiv is a great place to kick off your travel adventure. From exploring the cobbled streets of the Old Town and discovering the city’s Roman heritage to going for a walk through the lovely Tsar Simeon’s garden, there are plenty of free activities that you can enjoy while visiting this fascinating city.

However, there is more to Bulgaria than the cities. Consider the Seven Rila Lakes and the cute mountain lodges where you can spend the night for less than $15 per night. There is also the mountain town of Bansko which is one of the cheapest ski resorts in Europe. If you are visiting in summer, head out to beach destinations like Sunny Beach, Varna, and Nessebar where you can enjoy the deep waters of the Black Sea.

Train tickets in Bulgaria are extremely cheap: you can go on a 4-hour train journey for as little as $5. Expect to pay $2,5 for a bottle of beer in a bar and around $7 for a meal in a nice restaurant. When it comes to accommodation, a bed in a hostel costs on average $8, while a room in a 3-star hotel will set you back roughly $12-$15 a night.

11. Poland

Gdansk

Poland is a fantastic budget-friendly destination in central Europe. Cities like Kraków and Gdańsk boast a rich history, have dozens of lovely parks, and offer tasty local foods to try. Poland is also well-known for its national parks, such as Ojcowski National Park (near Krakow) which is home to picturesque castles and stunning caves. Visit the old town and local markets in Gdansk, go hiking in the Tatra Mountains, or head out to the capital of Warsaw where you will find countless hostels and budget-friendly hostels that offer rooms for $15 per night.

If you wish to explore Polish cities with an experienced guide, but don’t wish to overpay for the tours, I recommend using Walkative. They offer free tours in all major cities including Warsaw, Krakow, Gdansk, Poznan, Lublin. Just be sure to tip your local guide at the end of the tour.

When it comes to dining out, the cheapest option is eating at a Bary mleczne (milk bar). These places are usually much cheaper than normal restaurants and attract plenty of students and locals. If you are craving homemade local dishes, a Bary mleczne is the place to go. Wondering what to order? Go for a bowl of pierogi, try the amazing Polish soups, or have a slice of Szarlotka (Polish apple pie) for dessert.

12. Czechia

Although it’s probably the most popular tourist destination on this list, the Czech Republic is not expensive if you know where to go and what to do. The capital city, Prague is a great place to visit if you are on a budget, as most of the attractions are free to explore. Consider for instance about the incredible Jewish quarter, the Old Town center with its perfectly-preserved architecture, and medieval castles.

Beyond Prague, consider exploring the cobbled streets of Karlovy Vary which is home for hot mineral springs spa centers, parks, and cafes. The fairytale city of Cesky Krumlov is not to be missed, with its narrow cobblestoned streets dotted with picturesque houses with red roof tiles.

Prices for hostels and hotels in the Czech Republic vary depending on the city you are planning to stay in. In Prague, you can rent an apartment for $30 per night for two people, while in smaller cities expect to pay $15 for a dorm in a hostel. Czech cuisine is delicious; order a plate of homemade goulash with bread dumplings for $5 at a restaurant or visit one of the many kebab shops where you can eat for $3. In case you are craving something sweet, find a street vendor that sells trdelnik. You won’t be disappointed.

13. Hungary

Hungary’s capital of Budapest is one of the most beautiful in Europe. Order a piece of cake and listen to live classical music performance at the New York Palace, eat local food delicacies at the Great Market Hall, and go bar hopping in the Jewish Quarter which is home to the famous Hungarian ruin pubs. In the evening, go on a Danube River Cruise and enjoy a romantic 2-hour boat trip (about $30).

Once you leave Budapest, head out to Lake Balaton. It’s a fairly popular tourist destination famed for its beaches. Hungary is also home to many thermal spa resorts such as the one in Morohalom and Héviz Lake. When it comes to food, Hungarian cuisine is hearty and tasty. From a soup dish with beef and veggies called goulash to delicious fried dough topped with savory condiments also known as langos, there are many tasty foods to sample while visiting Hungary.

Hungary is exceptionally affordable and you won’t be spending too much cash here. A meal at a mid-range eatery costs $15 per person, while a set meal in a local dining establishment will set you back around $7. There’s great-value accommodation available in the country ranging from hostels to Airbnb apartments available for rent.

14. Serbia

Belgrade

Serbia is a great place to visit when traveling on a budget. The people are friendly, the food is amazing, and there are tons of cool attractions just waiting to be explored. From the capital city of Belgrade and its vibrant nightlife and the northern region of Vojvodina where life is unhurried to the south where cities like Nis and Leskovac offer a unique gastronomic experience, there is definitely no shortage of amazing things to do in Serbia.

Let’s start with the northern part of the country. Visit the lake of Palic where you can enjoy stunning views of the lake and try food specialties like fish stew and goulash. Your next stop should be the lovely city of Novi Sad which is famed for its medieval fortress, the beautiful river promenade, and many lively clubs and bars. In Belgrade, explore the main Knez Mihajlova street, go for a stroll in Kalemegdan Park, and try grilled meat specialties at one Skadarlija’s restaurants. No visit to Serbia would be complete without having a shot of rakija (local moonshine). If you like hiking, make sure to visit Tara Mountain. Travelers who wish to go skiing will be happy to hear that Kopaonik is one of the cheapest ski resorts in Europe.

You won’t have to spend a lot when visiting Serbia. An Airbnb apartment in Novi Sad costs around $20-$30 per night, while a dorm bed in a hostel costs $10. Eating out is also affordable and a basic meal will cost you not more than $10 per person in a nice restaurant.

15. Ukraine

Ukraine was featured in the original list until Russia’s war of aggression obviously brought tourism to a halt. The original text is kept here.

One of Europe’s most unexplored countries but also possibly the cheapest country in all of Europe, Ukraine is perfect for intrepid adventurers. The capital, Kyiv, has seen a lot of tourism development over the past few years. You will also find a variety of international restaurants in the city ranging from Vietnamese eateries and Japanese sushi restaurants to dining establishments that serve Middle Eastern foods. There are many free things that you can do in Kyiv: visit the city’s open-air museums, discover the Main Astronomical Observatory, admire more than 150 street murals, or visit St. Vladimir Hill for panoramic views of Kyiv.

Then make your way to Lviv, one of the most picturesque cities in the region that is well known for its abundance of green spaces and Soviet architecture. Another favorite is the coastal town of Odesa where many locals come to spend their vacation days in the summer season.

Ukraine is one of the most budget-friendly countries around. Hostels offer dorm beds from $4, while a night in a hotel for 2 people is priced at $30. If you want to eat out, expect to pay $3-$7 for a meal in a local restaurant. Beer and wine cost $1-$2 in a bar.

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12 of the cheapest countries in Europe you can travel to

Looking for an affordable getaway to Europe? There are tons of cheap European destinations, which can make for the perfect vacation spot! Budget travellers rave about these destinations for their memorable experiences, food and culture. So, if you’re looking for the best way to save money, here are 12 of the cheapest countries in Europe you’ll want to add to your list.

12. Spain

One of the Western European options you’ll want to consider is Spain. Although popular cities like Barcelona and Madrid can cost more, there are tons of affordable spots throughout in Spain. Seville and Valencia are great options, which are less busy and full of local Spanish culture. You’ll get to experience the architecture and taste the flavours of Spain all on a budget.

11. Montenegro

Compared to other Mediterranean countries, Montenegro is easy to travel thorough without spending a lot. Most travellers will visit cities along the coastline like Budva and Kotor, but there are tons of other spots inland you’ll want to explore. Hike through some of their national parks and experience the rocky hills and breathtaking mountain views of Montenegro. Pro tip: visiting during off-season can help to save money with lower prices and less crowds.

10. Portugal

Top cities in Portugal, like Lisbon and Porto, are on most of our travel bucket lists. All budget travelers should add Portuguese cities like Algarve and Cascais into the mix. These cities are the perfect spot to enjoy the sun. You can spend your days immersing yourself in Portuguese culture and food, all without breaking the bank.

9. Ireland

One of the cheapest countries in Europe to fly into is Ireland. With cheap flights from Ryanair and AerLingus, getting in and out of the capital city of Dublin doesn’t break the bank. Spend a few days exploring Dublin. Then pack your bags and travel throughout the country to places like Galway, Cork and Killarney. Once you’re done the basics, you’ll want to check these 15 things off your list for the full experience.

Portugal City and Surf

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8. Greece

If you avoid peak travel months during the summer, Greece may surprise you as a budget-friendly country. Get off the beaten path and ahead outside the main cities. Smaller Greek islands, such as Hydra, Poros, Tinos and Lefkada, have an amazing vibe and are kind to your wallet. From delicious local Greek cuisine to sun-soaked beaches, you’ll have an amazing time immersed in the culture of Greece.

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7. Slovakia

Located in Central Europe, Slovakia gives you lots of room to roam. There are tons of fun, and affordable, outdoor attractions in Slovakia. One popular option is hiking or skiing throughout the High Tatra Mountains. If you’re more into exploring the cities, try Bratislava. It’s one of the main cities where most budget travellers love to visit! With accommodations and local eats, you won’t have to spend a lot to enjoy your time visiting Slovakia.

6. Romania

With European cities like Bucharest, Sibiu and Brașov, getting off the beaten path in Romania is easy. Spend your time relaxing on the beach by the Black Sea, or hiking in the Carpathian Mountains. Of course, sightseeing is always a great option. So why not explore some of Romania’s beautiful castles? Two of the most popular castles are Bran Castle (Dracula’s Castle) in Transylvania and Peleș Castle in Sinaia.

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5. Estonia

A trip to Estonia will remind you of travelling throughout Scandinavia on a budget. Estonia has a diverse terrain and over 1,500 islands in the Baltic Sea. You’ll see the Nordic influence blended with the Baltic culture. The capital city of Tallinn can be a tad more expensive, but if you head out to the outskirts of the city and there’s tons of more affordable options just waiting for you to explore.

4. Poland

If you’re thinking about heading to Eastern Europe, Poland should be on your list! It’s budget-friendly cities make it one of the cheapest countries in Europe. With beautiful architecture and landscapes like Ojców National Park outside of Kraków, Poland is full of rich history and culture you’ll fall in love with immediately.

Best of Baltics

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3. Hungary

Every year, tons of travellers flock to Hungary for the Széchenyi Thermal Baths in Budapest. There’s rich history and a thriving food scene in Hungary that you won’t want to miss! Best part? You won’t need to spend a lot to try some of the faves like goulash or langos. It’s a great cheap European vacation for any budget traveller.

Vienna to Rome Trail

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2. Bulgaria

One of the cheapest countries in Europe is Bulgaria. You’re bound to save money travelling throughout this beautiful country. The capital city of Sofia is absolutely stunning! And luckily most of the main attractions, even in Sofia, are affordable. There are free walking tours across most of the main European cities of Sofia, Veliko, Tarnovo and Plovdiv. All you’ll have to do is tip. Don’t forget to try some Bulgarian pastries like banica and krenvirshka while you’re there.

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1. Czech Republic

With beautiful city like Prague, Czech Republic is definitely an affordable option. If you stay outside of the main city core in Prague in cities like Bruno, Český Krumlov and Ostrava, you’ll find your euro will stretch just a tad further. Plus, beer is cheaper than water here. Sounds like a good trip to us!

Found the perfect budget-friendly spot to visit in Europe? Budget travellers can see some amazing spots travelling through some of the cheapest countries in Europe. So why not book and go? Check out Contiki’s trips to Europe to get that travel inspo flowing.

Cheapest European Countries to Visit in 2023 Announced

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As inflation keeps affecting all aspects of the economy, planning a budget-friendly trip can be challenging.

Make the most of your trip by following this list of the cheapest European countries to visit.

This way, you will be able to see more and spend less. And who doesn’t want that?

Whether you are travelling for a few days only or for a longer period of time, knowing all the practical travel details will make your trip run smoothly.

Cheapest European Countries to Visit

• Hungary
• Portugal
• Slovenia
• Bulgaria
• Romania
• Slovakia
• Moldova

Hungary

Located in central Europe, Hungary is undoubtedly one of the cheapest European countries to visit. The country is known for its famous thermal baths – Hungary has one of the biggest natural hot spring spa bath complexes in Europe and is open year-round.

Cost of Accommodation – As a general rule of thumb, the closer to the city, the more expensive everything will be. So, expect to pay anywhere between $60-90 per night in Budapest for a private room in a 3-4 star hotel. However, there are, of course, cheaper options. For example, a dorm room will be around $16 per night.

Cost of Transportation – Public transportation is the most affordable option. A monthly bus ticket is $24.

Cost of Food – While it depends on whether you are visiting an expensive or mid-range restaurant, eating and drinking cost are substantially cheaper than in other places in Europe. A meal costs $5.49, whereas a nicer dinner for two can be up to $25.04.

Main Attractions in Hungary

These are some of the most popular places to visit when you are in Hungary:

• Buda Castle. The Buda Castle is the first on the list of all those who visit Budapest. You can either walk or take the bus. Whichever way you decide to get to Buda Castle, it will be well worth it. The view from the top is spectacular, and if you are lucky enough to visit during the Budapest Wine Festival – you will get to enjoy a glass of locally brewed beer as well as Hungary’s popular ‘palinka’.
• The Danube River. While in Hungary, you can’t miss Danube riverfront walks. A river at the heart of Europe – visiting the Danube River will be a special experience.
• Historic Spa Towns. Hungary is mostly known for its thermal baths, so if you really want to experience Hungary pay a visit to the spa towns. Moreover, it is said that water in these spas has many health benefits.

Portugal

Portugal’s Azores Islands and Madeira are on every visitor’s list. These stunning subtropical islands are a must-see, and the good news is Portugal is one of the cheapest European countries to visit. If you want to enjoy the good weather and stunning beaches while also saving money, then look no further.

Cost of Accommodation – Visitors have found double rooms in 3-star hotels for as little as $11 per night. You can find 4+hotels for $51.

Cost of Transportation – A monthly pass is $41, and a one-way ticket is $1.60.

Cost of Food – A meal in a cheap restaurant costs $8, whereas eating out in McDonalds or other fast food restaurants is $6. You should, however, look for restaurants close to tourist attractions if you want to save a couple of bucks more.

Main Attractions in Portugal

When in Portugal, make sure to visit these popular tourist spots:

• Braga. Braga, located in northern Portugal, is a welcoming university town and an attractive tourist destination. When visiting, you should stop by Republic Square and start your journey there. A must-try dish in Braga is ‘Fransecinha’, which is otherwise called ‘The Queen of Sandwiches’. You might want to wrap up your tour in Braga by having a coffee at Café A Brasileira, which is one of the town’s oldest cafes.
• Porto. Porto is one of the most popular and beautiful cities in the country. At first glance, Porto looks expensive; however, this city offers affordable accommodation, activities and entertainment, food and more. On top of that, you will get to see some of the most stunning views.
• Sintra. Sintra is another Portugal gem you should not miss when you are in the country. The city is only 45 minutes away from Lisbon, and you can take the train there. The castles are many and beautiful.

Slovenia

Slovenia is every budget traveller’s paradise. When compared to the nearby Austria, Italy, and Switzerland, Slovenia is way cheaper and, therefore, is increasingly becoming a favourite tourist destination.

Cost of Accommodation – Expect to pay between $38 to $96, as that is the average accommodation price in Slovenia. Hostel dorms are normally cheaper, and you can stay for $11-15 per night only and not more than that.

Cost of Transportation – If you find yourself using public transport on a regular basis, you might want to consider purchasing a ticket which is valid for a longer period of time. A monthly bus ticket is $15. You should always remember to have your card with you, as there is a penalty for riding without a ticket.

Cost of Food – Another major budget factor is the price of food. You will get to choose from a variety of cuisines for $12-15. Fast food costs about the same everywhere, so if you are on a smaller budget, you can get a meal at McDonalds for $6.

Main Attractions in Slovenia:

• Ljubljana. Known as ‘Europe’s Greenest City’, Ljubljana is home to several parks and green spaces. Whether you want to take a walk along the river or sit at the park and enjoy all of what Ljublana has to offer, you won’t regret paying this beautiful city a visit.
• Lake Bled. Lake Bled is one of Slovenia’s most attractive places to visit. You might either take a stroll around the lake or visit the Bled Castle, which offers a breathtaking view. And the best thing of all, you can swim in the lake as well.
• Triglav National Park. The Triglav National Park is a national treasure. It is one of Europe’s oldest parks and home to one of the most diverse flora and fauna, green Alpine valleys and more. When in Slovenia, Triglav National Park is a must-visit.

Bulgaria

If you are thinking of backpacking in Europe, Bulgaria should be on your list of places to visit. Not only is it one of the cheapest European countries, but one of the most interesting as well. Whether you want to head east to the beach or visit many of Bulgaria’s mountains and parks, you are guaranteed to have a good time.

Cost of Accommodation – You will be able to find a place for as little as $14 per night. In case you want a nicer place, 4+ hotels start from $36.

Cost of Transportation – Most of the country is connected by rail and road services, as public transport is heavily dependent on them. Those visiting Bulgaria get around with either buses or trolleybus networks. A monthly public transportation ticket costs $18.19.

Cost of Food – Wherever you decide to eat, prices of food are not overwhelmingly high in general. You will pay around $8 to $15 for a main dish or $5 for a sandwich at any fast food place.

Main Attractions in Bulgaria:

• Burgas. Located on Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast, Burgas is a beautiful country full of colours. It is one of the largest cities in the country. If you are drawn to the Bulgarian coast, you should consider Burgas.
• Bansko. Bansko is the most popular skiing and snowboarding destination. If you are visiting during the cold months of November and December, make sure to take advantage of the views from the top of the mountain, ski and take a long relaxing mineral bath afterwards. If, however, you are visiting during the summer, you can go mountain hiking or horseback riding.
• Plovdiv. Plovdiv, right after Sofia, is the second-largest city in Bulgaria. The city is very attractive and youthful. The Old Town is the most visited place – it is stretched into three hills, and the town’s history dates back to 8000 years ago.

Romania

Romania is another European country that offers beautiful places to explore and plenty of activities to do at an affordable price. In the last few years, it has become an incredibly famous Eastern European destination for visitors. Tourists are both surprised and delighted at how inexpensive Romania is.

Cost of Accommodation – Hostel dorms start at only $10 per night. Visitors have been amazed at the hospitality and quality when visiting Romania.

Cost of Public transportation – Many Romanians depend on trains, light rails and bus networks as means of public transportation. One bus ride will cost you $0.30. A monthly pass will be $16.52.

Cost of Food – A meal at an inexpensive restaurant in Bucharest will be $6.61, whereas a meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant will cost $14.45. That is, of course, always considering the type of restaurant you go to and whether it is in the city centre or not.

Main Attractions in Romania:

• Bran Castle. We all have heard of Transylvania and the many myths associated with this region. The Bran Castle, located in the forested town of Transylvania, is identified with the fictional Dracula. It is one of the most popular attractions in Romania and worth seeing.
• The Old Town. The entire town is surrounded by museums and other historical buildings that date back hundreds of years ago. As well as churches, shops, cafes and bars where you can sit and enjoy a nice day in Romania’s most visited town.
• Transylvanian Alps. Transylvanian Alps, otherwise known as The Southern Carpathians, are another one of Romania’s gems. The mountains are ideal for hiking and nature lovers.

Slovakia

Slovakia is one of the cheapest European countries to visit, perhaps the reason being that it still has not been discovered by masses of tourists. However, that is simply a matter of time because Slovakia is full of gems.

Cost of Accommodation – As per accommodation, prices are generally very affordable. You can find a nice place for $10 a night, including modern air-conditioned room with free Wi-Fi and all private facilities. A 4.45-star rated place can be as low $30, which is considered very cheap compared to European standards. Naturally in more metropolitan areas and city centres, the prices will be slightly higher.

Cost of Transportation – The easiest and the cheapest way of getting around Slovakia is by bus. Locals also depend on trains and tramways.

Cost of Food – A typical meal at an inexpensive restaurant will be $6, and a meal for two at a relatively expensive restaurant is around $30.

Main Attractions in Slovakia:

• Bratislava. You can get to Bratislava quite easy from any other European country. Although it is a relatively small city, it still offers a lot to see. The architecture is very interesting, and there are still remnants from the Communist era, mixes of buildings built in two different eras and so on. The city was not built to be a capital city, however, it has its own charm and uniqueness.
• Orava Castle. The Orava Castle is the first thing locals will recommend to visitors, and that is because of the engaging and exciting experience which the place offers. Slovakia has the highest number of castles per capita in the world, and Orava Castle is just one of many. You will get to see the knight’s hall and archaeological exhibition rooms.
• Domica Cave. Besides all the beautiful castles, Slovakia is home to thousands of caves as well. Domica Cave is one of the most popular and the most beautiful. It has also been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The entrance fee is $9.50.

Moldova

Moldova is best known for its wine, therefore, if you are a fan of wine – Moldova is your place to visit this summer. Tourists are increasingly looking for places that are less crowded and known. Moldova is yet to be discovered, and the country has preserved its cultural and historical heritage.

Cost of Accommodation – Prices in Moldova are comparatively lower than in most other countries, especially those in Western Europe. There are not many capital cities where you can find a place to stay for as little as $5 per night. If you are looking for a fancier place, a five-star hotel costs $150, whereas a two-star hotel will be $30.

Cost of Transportation – Prices usually vary between cities. For example, a single public transport ticket costs $0.41 in Chisinau, whereas $0.48 in other cities such as Tiraspol and Bender.

Cost of Food – When it comes to Moldovan food, meals at most restaurants are under $10. A bottle of their locally brewed wine, which is one of the world’s best, is around $12.

Source https://www.indietraveller.co/europe-cheap-countries-to-travel/

Source https://www.contiki.com/six-two/budget-friendly-european-countries/

Source https://www.schengenvisainfo.com/news/cheapest-european-countries-to-visit-in-2023-announced/