20 Budget Destinations in Europe You Should Visit

To traverse the continent of Europe on a crazy adventure seems like a far-fetched dream, especially when you take into account how much it could all cost. But underneath all the glitz and glamour of European destinations, there are these hidden, lesser-known cities that offer just the same exciting allure, with their own authentic charm. Here are some Europe budget destinations you can fit into your next trip!

1. Ljubljana, Slovenia

To start off this list of Europe budget destinations, here’s the “green capital of Europe” and best known as a college town. Ljubljana is Slovenia’s capital and largest city. Home to the mesmerising Lake Bled, Ljubljana also holds 46 km of coastline between Italy and Croatia, perfect for a taste of the warm Mediterranean air. Take a dip in the waters and the fresh air just a distance away from this enchanting city!

With almost 100 castles like Predjama Castle, you can wander around playing kings and queens as you watch the sunset in a romantic, surreal fairytale setting. Stroll along the charming Cankarjevo Nabrežje, the pedestrian-only street that lines the Ljubljanica River. 

Looking for a culture trip? Ljubljana is also the heart of the country’s events and festivals scene. Not only that, it is a deeply cultural city where history and art is revered!

Free activities you shouldn’t miss out:

• Walk up to Ljubljana Castle, an imposing fortress overlooking the entire city centre, and enjoy your time exploring the area.
• Take free rides on Cavaliers, electric vehicles that is used to transport everyone to the central market and around the city centre.
• Explore former military barracks Metelkova City, now a hidden trove of alternative culture, hosting bars, clubs, art galleries and studios.

Local currency: Euro (€)

Backpacker hostel: S$14.80–S$47.13

Three budget meals: S$8.66

Two public transport rides: S$3.59

Pint of beer: S$3.90

Budget/day: S$30.95

2. Budapest, Hungary

Waltz down the banks of the Danube River and bask in the grandeur of brilliant architecture that embellishes the city grounds. Known as the “Paris of the East”, Budapest’s elegant boulevards and incredible castles will take your breath away. Keep your cameras close, almost every corner is a picturesque sight that you wouldn’t want to forget! Climb up Castle Hill and be inspired by the majestic Fisherman’s Bastion and Buda Castle where you can catch sight of the awe-inspiring Parliament House. It could get a little busy but there are little nooks and crannies everywhere and exploring the Castle Hill is an experience I would personally recommend!

After a whole day of exploration, take time to relax in the many spa baths like Szechenyi Spa Baths and then party your night away in the many iconic ruin bars like Szimpla Kert. I always find time to visit a ruin bar whenever I am in the city because there really is nothing like watching your night go by in such an eclectic place!

Free activities you shouldn’t miss out:

• Explore the Fisherman’s Bastion and Buda Castle and bask in the incredible neo-Gothic architecture after climbing the Castle Hill.
• Visit the Heroes’ Square, one of the most photographed locations in the city.
• Stroll around the Jewish Quarter, home to Europe’s largest synagogue and picturesque winding streets where you can find many smaller and unique stalls selling interesting souvenirs 

Local currency: Hungarian Forints (HUF)

Backpacker hostel: S$10.48–S$22.46

Three budget meals: S$9.59

Two public transport rides: S$3.14

Pint of beer: S$2.24

Budget/day: S$25.45

3. Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic

We know that the Czech Republic isn’t usually part of the list of Europe budget destinations. But here us out. Down in Bohemia’s deep south lies one of the most picturesque towns in Europe, Cesky Krumlov. Instead of going straight for the more popular Prague, take some time away in this lesser-known city which is still as beautiful!

With plenty of lively bars and riverside picnic spots, it is a wonderful place to unwind and enjoy the magic that flows through its charming Old Town. It takes about 20 minutes to get from one end of the town to the other, perfect for a short trip to thoroughly relish its enchanting allure! 

Make sure to stop by the famous and mighty Rožmberk Castle, home to the Baroque Theatre. You can also spend your afternoons on the Vltava River where you can paddle on a canoe or have a picnic!

Free activities you shouldn’t miss out:

• Explore the Old Town Centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can find a mix of Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance style architecture.
• Stop by the Fountain and Plague Column on the main square, which was built in 1843 and today is one of the most popular photo spots in town.
• Wander down the cobbled streets of the Latran district, home to plenty of shops, bars and restaurants.

Local currency: Czech Koruna (CZK, Kč)

Backpacker hostel: S$14.81–S$33.67

Three budget meals: S$10

Two public transport rides: S$1.90

Pint of beer: S$0.97

Budget/day: S$27.68

#TripZilla Tip: Flying to Europe doesn’t have to burn a hole in your wallet – if you’re using the right travel credit card! The DBS Altitude Card, voted ‘Best Travel Credit Card‘ in the TripZilla Excellence Awards 2019, lets you earn up to 4 miles per S$1 spent, with no expiry! This means that you’ll get to rake up miles for cheaper flight tickets for every dollar you spend both locally, online and abroad. With a low minimum annual income requirement of $30,000, it’s also an ideal option for both students and young working adults.

4. Bucharest, Romania

Bucharest is one of the biggest cities in Europe boasting unique architecture, eclectic neighborhoods and a beautifully restored Old Town bursting with cafes and bars. 

This city is also home to Piata Obor, or Obor Market, the largest and oldest market in Romania. Get yourself lost in the winding streets and search for hidden treasures to bring back home that is unique and special to this place. Stop by the Cismigiu Gardens in the centre of the city, built around a romantic lake and old-growth trees. Take your lunch with you and have a meal as you enjoy the natural landscape. With a number of summer parks, coffee spots and strange bookstores, there is something exciting waiting for you at every corner! 

Free activities you shouldn’t miss out:

• Relax and unwind in the Old Town where you can admire the unique mix of architecture that fills up the area.
• Admire the Arch de Triumph — who said you need to go to Paris to stare at one in wonderment?
• Stroll along Calea Victoriei, a boulevard that was formerly enjoyed only by Romanian aristocrats 150 years ago.

Local currency: Romanian leu (leu, lei)

Backpacker hostel: S$7.49 – S$22.46

Three budget meals: S$15.27

Two public transport rides: S$0.82

Pint of beer: S$2.66

Budget/day: S$26.24

5. Hamburg, Germany

The largest city in Germany after Berlin, Hamburg is best known for its harbour area, the Port of Hamburg. Wander down the Deichstrasse, the oldest remaining street in old Hamburg, having survived centuries of fires and wars. Here, you can find historic residential areas that date back to the 14th century and there are also restored houses.

Explore the new neighbourhood HafenCity, a project of urban regeneration where you can find new hotels, leisure amenities and shops. Yup, compared to others, this city can definitely be part of the list of Europe budget destinations!

Free activities you shouldn’t miss out:

• Stroll through the exciting quarter of Schanzenviertel, where you can find indie boutiques, galleries, cafes and international eateries.
• Relax by taking a stroll at Planten un Blomen, where you’ll find Japanese gardens, tropical greenhouses, and mesmerising fountains.
• Explore the Alter Elbtunnel, a tunnel under the river Elbe stretching over 420 metres.

Local currency: Euro (€)

Backpacker hostel: S$22–S$37.44

Three budget meals: S$13

Two public transport rides: S$6.30

Pint of beer: S$5.99

Budget/day: S$47.29

6. Sarajevo, Bosnia & Herzegovina

The capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Sarajevo is a Balkan city situated in a picturesque valley and home to some of the most astounding sights. Within its Old Town, stroll through the cobbled streets of Bascarsija where you can indulge in delicious coffee and find little shops in every corner. One of my best travel experience was walking down this incredibly picturesque old town and then having coffee with a local! With your loved ones by your side, enjoy the sunset and city views from The Yellow Bastion. 

For a little history lesson, take a walk down Sarajevo Tunnel of Hope, an 800-metre man-made underground tunnel connecting the city to the area of the airport controlled by the United Nations during the Siege of Sarajevo. Visit the largest historical mosque in the country, Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque, as you bask in the beauty of the Ottoman architecture!

Free activities you shouldn’t miss out:

• Visit the historical Vijecnica, which once housed the national library of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
• Wander down Kazandziluk Street, a copper street where coppersmiths used to make unique goods.
• Climb up a little higher from the Yellow Bastion to the White Fortress and enjoy the brilliant viewpoint.

Local currency: Bosnia and Herzegovina convertible mark (KM)

Backpacker hostel: S$11

Three budget meals: S$14

Two public transport rides: S$2.76

Pint of beer: S$2.68

Budget/day: S$30.44

7. Porto, Portugal

With medieval walls and Baroque churches, it is no wonder that the Historic Centre of Porto is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This northern city is pretty hilly, yet it’s also home to some of the most beautiful parks like the Crystal Palace gardens. 

Get lost in the Ribeira district, a scenic historic quarter, and visit Vila Nova de Gaia, home of numerous port wine cellars. At sunset, head down to Serra do Pilar, a jagged hill above the Douro river to enjoy the spectacular view. Stop by Sao Bento Train Station — with over 20,000 decorative tiles covering the station walls, it’s voted as one of the World’s Most Beautiful Train Stations. See why this is part of our list of Europe budget destinations below!

Free activities you shouldn’t miss out:

• Taste port wine in the cellars, some provide it for free!
• Visit Livraria Lello, a stunning neo-gothic bookstore that was opened in 1906.
• Party all night around Piolho, where many clubs offer free entry.

Local currency: Euro (€)

Backpacker hostel: S$14.97 – S$23.96

Three budget meals: S$14

Two public transport rides: S$3.74 

Pint of beer: S$1.49

Budget/day: S$34.20

8. Istanbul, Turkey

Straddling Europe and Asia, Istanbul has a magnificent Old City where its cultural influences reflect the many empires that once ruled the city throughout its history. Breathing old into the new, it’s as if you were thwarted back in time! Visit Hagia Sophia, once a church, then a mosque, and now one of the most visited museums. 

Wander through the Grand Bazaar, where you will find over 5,000 shops covering the length of 60 streets dating back to the 15th century. If you are looking for a viewpoint, climb up the Galata Tower which boasts incredible views of the city. Stop by the iconic Blue Mosque to complete your trip!

Free activities you shouldn’t miss out:

• Gawk over Suleymaniye Camii, the biggest mosque in Istanbul and one of the best examples of Ottoman Islamic architecture.
• Explore the second largest Byzantine structure, Zeyrek Mosque, originally an ancient monastery.
• Take a walk down the Bomonti Flea Market where you can find everything from vintage cameras to delicious local sweets (which you can sample for free!)

Local currency: Turkish lira (₺)

Backpacker hostel: S$14.97–S$22.46

Three budget meals: S$3.22

Two public transport rides: S$1.46

Pint of beer: S$1.71

Budget/day: S$21.36

9. Minsk, Belarus

Situated along the rivers of the Svislach and the Nyamiha, Minsk is the capital and the largest city of Belarus. With an array of intriguing historic sights and an ever-changing architectural landscape, you are bound to fall in love with this exciting city. 

Visit the Museum of the Great Patriotic War, a world-class war museum where you can learn more about the history of this city. Stop by the National Library of Belarus for a bird’s eye view of the city’s ever-changing skyline from its observation deck. 

Free activities you shouldn’t miss out:

• Head on to the city’s oldest district Trinity Hill, located on the banks of the Svislach for a pleasant stroll
• Discover the Island of Tears, a memorial commemorating Belarusian Soviet soldiers who died in battle 
• Network with locals at Gallery Y, a creative hub and centre for modern Belarusian culture featuring an exhibition hall with contemporary art installations

Local currency: Belarusian Ruble (Br)

Backpacker hostel: S$15

Three budget meals: S$10

Two public transport rides: S$0.90 

Pint of beer: S$1.27

Budget/day: S$27.17

10. Bratislava, Slovakia

Here’s one of the Europe budget destinations you really can’t miss. Set along the Danube River by the border of Austria and Hungary, Bratislava is surrounded by vineyards, mountains, forested hiking and cycling trails. With a population of about 430,000, it is one of the smaller capitals of Europe. 

Stop by the only surviving medieval gate in the city, Michael’s Gate, where you can climb to the top for a fantastic viewpoint. Stroll down the quiet Kapitulska Street, a medieval street lined with both colourful and older buildings. Don’t forget to visit the iconic landmark of St. Martin’s Cathedral and the oldest building in Bratislava, Old Town Hall!

Free activities you shouldn’t miss out:

• Climb up Slavin, the monument dedicated to Soviet soldiers who liberated Slovakia from the Nazis. It offers a brilliant view from the top.
• Check out Mileticova Street, where you can find an open-air market boasting textiles, fresh flowers, produce and more.
• Laze around the many lakes that are free and open to the public like Velky Drazdiak.

Local currency: Euro (€)

Backpacker hostel: S$10.48–S$23.96

Three budget meals: S$9

Two public transport rides: S$2.70

Pint of beer: S$1.08

Budget/day: S$23.26

11. Sofia, Bulgaria

With over 2,000 years of history including Greek, Ottoman and Soviet occupation, Sofia is the culturally diverse and historically rich capital of the Balkan nation, Bulgaria. One of the must-see buildings here is the St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral which dates back to the 1880s and has room for over 10,000 people! 

Head on to the heart of ancient Serdica and awe over the oldest building in Sofia, St. George Rotunda, which was rediscovered and restored in the 1990s. Explore the fanciest street in the city, Vitosha Boulevard, housing posh boutiques, fashion houses and, of course, cafes!

Free activities you shouldn’t miss out:

• Visit the Square of Religious Tolerance where you can find a small patch of land with four places of worship at its four corners.
• Cosy up in book cafes like Chitalnyata and Peroto Literature Club and read books for free.
• Browse through markets located around the symbolic Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, where you can find items from jewellery to Russian dolls.

Local currency: Bulgarian lev (лв)

Backpacker hostel: S$19

Three budget meals: S$8.44

Two public transport rides: S$2.44

Pint of beer: S$2.29

Budget/day: S$32.17

12. Valletta, Malta

Valletta is the tiny capital of the Mediterranean island nation of Malta, established in the 1500s and best known for museums, palaces and grand churches. The whole city is also listed as a UNESCO Heritage Site. 

Wander around the impressive promenade of Valletta Waterfront, a serene spot away from the main center. Visit Manoel Theatre, one of Europe’s oldest working theaters retaining many of its architectural features. Explore the inner city and discover the history that lies within by stopping by St. George’s Square and the many Parliament buildings around.

Free activities you shouldn’t miss out:

• For amazing views of the incredible Grand Harbour, stop by Upper Barrakka Gardens, a relaxing spot where you can rest and take in the fresh air here.
• Walk around the edge of the city on top of the walls known as the Valletta fortifications
• Get lost as you walk down Strait Street where you can enjoy the historical and colourful buildings along the street.

Local currency: Euro (€)

Backpacker hostel: S$14.97–S$26.95

Three budget meals: S$15

Two public transport rides: S$6

Pint of beer: S$4.49

Budget/day: S$40.46

13. Split, Croatia

Lying on the eastern shore of the Adriatic Sea, Split is the second largest city of Croatia. With incredible ruins dating back to the Roman Empire, there is much to see and experience. Take some time to explore the Diocletian’s Palace, built in 305 A.D. Find its cellar a little familiar? It was used as a filming site for the famous TV show Game of Thrones, where Daenerys kept her dragons when she was in Meereen. 

For the best views of the city, climb up the Bell Tower of St. Domnius Cathedral. The Old Town is also an enchanting space with its maze of streets and cobblestoned lanes, where you can find a number of cafes and restaurants. See below to understand why it’s part of our list of Europe budget destinations!

Free activities you shouldn’t miss out:

• Explore the Marjan Forest Park, which sits on a hill overlooking Split where you can bask in nature in the middle of the city.
• Relax at the many beaches including Bacvice and Ovcice, which lie along Split’s 15km coastline.
• Stroll along the Riva, a waterfront promenade lined with palm trees, shops, cafes, galleries and more.

Local currency: Croatian kuna (kn)

Backpacker hostel: S$10.48–S$37.44

Three budget meals: S$11

Two public transport rides: S$4.42

Pint of beer: S$1.85

Budget/day: S$27.75

14. Nimes, France

An important outpost of the Roman Empire, Nimes is known for well-preserved Roman monuments such as the iconic Arena of Nimes. With its rich history, this charming city is often referred to as the “French Rome”. Walk along the tree-lined Avenue Feucheres to the main square of Esplanade Charles-de-Gaulle, which was historically a space for artillery practice. 

Visit the brilliant Le Carre d’Art and the ancient Maison Carree, both of which are situated in the same square. Just a little on the edge of the town is Place Gabriel Peri, the largest church in Nimes where you can find one of the main gates of the ancient Roman wall.

Free activities you shouldn’t miss out:

• Take a stroll around the tranquil Jardins de la Fontaine, a 17th-century park featuring plane trees, archways and staircases interwoven with sculptures and grassy corners.
• Visit Les Halles, a traditional covered market where you can find a plethora of seasonal and regional produce.

Local currency: Euro (€)

Backpacker hostel: S$6.62

Three budget meals: S$15

Two public transport rides: S$5.67

Pint of beer: S$8.99

Budget/day: S$36.28

15. Riga, Latvia

Set on the Baltic Sea at the mouth of the River Daugava, Riga is a cultural centre and home to Europe’s biggest food market, oldest zoo and finest collection of art nouveau buildings. The city centre is also full of architectural treasures. Riga’s Old Town features over 500 buildings that reflect different architectural styles including gothic, baroque and modernism. 

Stroll down Rozena Street, a narrow alley where you can touch opposing walls with both hands. Explore Riga’s Central Market where you’ll come across more than 3,000 vendors selling all sorts of wares! In just 20 minutes, you can also find Jurmala, a 32km strip of coastline.

Free activities you shouldn’t miss out:

• Walk to the corner of Strelnieku and Elizabetes Street, where the most impressive art nouveau buildings are situated.
• Explore the Latvian War Museum, one of the oldest and largest museums unveiling the complex military and political history of the nation.
• Visit Kalnciema Quarter, a bright and lively spot where you can find markets and events like open-air concerts and art exhibitions.

Local currency: Euro (€)

Backpacker hostel: S$14–S$30

Three budget meals: S$11

Two public transport rides: S$1.97

Pint of beer: S$4.49

Budget/day: S$36.28

16. Kiev, Ukraine

The capital and most populous city of Ukraine, Kiev is one of the oldest cities in Eastern Europe, having cycled through several eras of great prominence and relative obscurity.  

One of the most important sites in Eastern Orthodox Christianity, Kiev Pechersk Lavra is a complex mix of churches, bell towers and subterranean caves. If you are interested in folk culture, stop by Pirogovo, an open-air museum with more than 300 buildings where you can watch craft-making like forging, weaving and pottery in action. Kiev is surprisingly not as expensive as other EU places. Read on to know why it’s part of our Europe budget destinations list.

Free activities you shouldn’t miss out:

• Indulge in contemporary art at Pinchuk Art Centre, where you can explore six floors of 21st-century paintings, installations and performances.
• Visit the Main Astronomical Observatory and stargaze in the night sky.
• Take a walk along Andriyivskyy Descent, one of the oldest streets in the city known as the Montmarte of Kiev

Local currency: Ukrainian hryvnia (₴)

Backpacker hostel: S$7.49–S$17.97

Three budget meals: S$5.68

Two public transport rides: S$0.68

Pint of beer: S$1.69

Budget/day: S$15.54

17. Pristina, Kosovo

A relatively new capital, Pristina is often overlooked by most who visit Europe. But for those who are looking for an under-the-radar and affordable city, this should be on your list of Europe budget travel destinations. 

With a vibrant cafe culture and a laid-back vibe, this city is perfect for the slow traveller. While there are few major attractions, there is still much to see. Stop by the Kosovo National Library, a brutalist masterpiece from the 1980s that looks more like a prison with its 73 white domes! Explore the open-air market Bazaar of Pristina, where you can find everything from fresh produce to old cell phones.

Free activities you shouldn’t miss out:

• Catch a free performance of Swan Lake at the National Theatre of Kosovo
• Stop by the 19th-century Clock Tower, a protected cultural monument
• Check out the Newborn Monument, a sculpture celebrating Kosovo’s place as Europe’s youngest country

Local currency: Euro (€)

Backpacker hostel: S$11.99–S$28.80

Three budget meals: S$12.78

Two public transport rides: S$1.20

Pint of beer: S$2.25

Budget/day: S$28.22

18. Budva, Montenegro

A quaint town in Montenegro sitting on the Adriatic Sea, Budva is the centre of Montenegrin tourism thanks to its riviera, best known for its sandy beaches and exciting nightlife. 

Surrounded by stone walls built by the Venetians, Budva’s medieval old town Stari Grad is home to a seaside citadel and religious sites such as the Church of Santa Maria. Bask in the sun and sea at the Montenegrin beaches, like the local favourite Drobji Pijesak. 

Stop by the fairytale-esque islet Sveti Stefan, connected to the mainland by a narrow land bridge flanked by two pink pebble beaches boasting incredible views.

Free activities you shouldn’t miss out:

• Explore Budva’s flea market and hunt for hidden treasures.
• Visit Saint Ivan Church in the Old Town where you can see the shrine of the Black Madonna.
• Enjoy the Statua Ballerina located midway between Old Town Budva and the famous Mogren Beach.

Local currency: Euro (€)

Backpacker hostel: S$15

Three budget meals: S$15

Two public transport rides: S$3

Pint of beer: S$3

Budget/day: S$36

19. Skopje, North Macedonia

Skopje is the capital and largest city of North Macedonia, a historical city that has been inhabited since at least 4,000 BC. Skopje’s Ottoman- and Byzantine-era history can be best seen around the city’s Carsija (old town), bordered by the 15th-century stone bridge Kameni Most and Tvrdina Kale Fortress. 

Walk along the Vardar River and enjoy the crazy architecture which looks like ancient old buildings but were only built recently, in an attempt to give the city a more classical look. As you explore around Skopje, count statues around the city! 

Free activities you shouldn’t miss out:

• Visit the Mother Teresa Memorial House, an enshrinement of the Skopje-born icon
• Walk across one of the oldest bridges in Europe, Kameni Most, built on the banks of the Vardar River and splitting the city into two halves.
• Explore Old Bazaar Skopje where you can find Ottoman mosques, Byzanitine buildings, mausoleum tombs, museums and more!

Local currency: Macedonian Denar (день)

Backpacker hostel: S$8.98–S$10.48

Three budget meals: S$6.80

Two public transport rides: S$1.70

Pint of beer: S$2.43

Budget/day: S$19.91

20. Belgrade, Serbia

Located at the confluence of the Saba and Danube rivers, the Serbian capital Belgrade is the largest city in the country. One of the most significant landmarks is the Beogradska Tvrdjava, an imposing fortress testament to the city’s strategic importance to the Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman, Serbian and Austrian empires of the past. 

To fully experience the city, head to the green markets, like the biggest Kalenic or the popular Zeleni Venac located in the city centre. Visit the Zepter Museum where you can find a fascinating collection of modern and contemporary art. You can visit all of these places in one go by taking a custom Belgrade tour

Free activities you shouldn’t miss out:

• Explore the lonely neighbourhood of Dorcol, home to one of Belgrade’s biggest clusters of historic buildings.
• Stroll down Skadarlija, a vintage street where artists and musicians once flourished.
• Climb up Avala, a mountain overlooking Belgrade where you can get a panorama view of the capital city.

Local currency: Serbian Dinar (din, дин)

Backpacker hostel: S$4.99–S$17.97

Three budget meals: S$4.19

Two public transport rides: S$2.56

Pint of beer: S$2.54

Budget/day: S$14.28

So, are you ready for adventures in Europe budget destinations? Let us know how it goes and if there are other budget hacks we ought to take note of!