Discover The Cheapest Countries to Travel in Europe 

Traveling to Europe is a dream for many, but it often comes with a hefty price tag. However, Europe is a diverse continent with numerous countries that offer budget-friendly travel experiences without compromising on beauty, culture, and adventure. Here, we explore some of the cheapest countries to travel in Europe and delve into why they are perfect for budget-conscious travelers.

Poland

Poland is one of the most affordable destinations in Europe, offering rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural experiences at a fraction of the cost of Western European countries. 

Why Poland is One of the Cheapest Countries to Travel in Europe:

• Hostels and budget hotels in Poland are remarkably cheap. In cities like Krakow and Warsaw, you can find comfortable lodging for as little as €10-15 per night!
• In terms of food and drinks you should kow that Polish cuisine is hearty and inexpensive. A traditional meal in a local restaurant costs around €5-8. Don’t miss out on pierogi (dumplings) and bigos (hunter’s stew).
• As far as it concerns transportation, we suggest that you opt for Public transportation, since it is both efficient and affordable. A monthly public transport pass in major cities costs around €25. Intercity travel is also inexpensive, especially if booked in advance.

Hungary

Hungary, with its grand architecture and thermal baths, offers a luxurious experience on a budget, especially in its capital, Budapest. 

Why Hungary is One of the Cheapest Countries to Travel in Europe:

• Budget accommodations in Budapest are plentiful, with hostels starting at €8-12 per night. Mid-range hotels are also quite affordable making the country one of the cheapest countries to travel in Europe.
•  Eating out is cheap and yummy. A meal at a mid-range restaurant costs around €6-10. Street food and market snacks like lángos (fried dough) are cheap and delicious.
• Moreover, many of Budapest’s iconic sites, like Buda Castle and Fisherman’s Bastion, are free or relatively inexpensive to visit. The city’s famous thermal baths offer relaxation at a low cost, with entrance fees starting at around €10.

Romania is an underrated gem in Europe, known for its medieval castles, breathtaking landscapes, and the myth of Dracula. 

Romania

Why Romania is One of the Cheapest Countries to Travel in Europe:

• As fas as it concerns accommodation options Hostels and budget hotels are widely available, especially in Bucharest and Transylvania. Prices for a dorm bed start at €10, and private rooms can be found for €20-30.
• Traditional Romanian food is both delicious and cheap. A meal in a local restaurant costs around €4-7. Don’t miss trying sarmale (cabbage rolls) and mămăligă (polenta).
• In terms of transportation, we suggest that you take advantage of the extensive train network in Romania which is very affordable. A train ride from Bucharest to Brasov, a popular route for tourists, costs around €10.

Bulgaria

Bulgaria is one of the most cost-effective travel destinations in Europe, known for its Black Sea coastline, ancient history, and mountain ranges. It is also one of the cheapest countries to travel in Europe where every dollar you spend is value for money.

Why Bulgaria is One of the Cheapest Countries to Travel in Europe:

• Accommodation is cheap and you can find hostels for as low as €5-10 per night. Even in the capital, Sofia, budget hotels are reasonably priced. 
• Bulgarian cuisine is also a huge value for money. A meal in a typical Bulgarian restaurant costs around €5-8. Traditional dishes like banitsa (pastry) and kebapche (grilled minced meat) are must-tries. 
• Add the free or low cost attractions to the mix, such as the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and Rila Monastery and you have a super saver there.  
• Last but not least, Bulgaria features an abundance of hiking trails accessible for endless strolls with no cost.

Slovakia

Slovakia is a hidden gem in Central Europe, offering charming towns, mountainous terrain, and a rich cultural heritage. 

Why Slovakia is One of the Cheapest Countries to Travel in Europe:

• Hostels and budget hotels in cities like Bratislava are affordable, with prices starting at €10-15 per night. 
• Slovak cuisine is tasty and economical. A typical meal costs around €5-8. Local dishes to try including bryndzové halušky (potato dumplings with sheep cheese) and kapustnica (sauerkraut soup). 
• Slovakia is also ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. The High Tatras mountains offer spectacular hiking and skiing opportunities at low prices. Many cultural sites and natural parks have minimal entrance fees.

Serbia

Serbia offers a vibrant mix of urban and rural experiences, from the bustling capital of Belgrade to the scenic landscapes of the countryside. 

Why Serbia is One of the Cheapest Countries to Travel in Europe:

• Budget accommodations in Belgrade and other cities are very affordable, with hostels starting at €7-10 per night. 
• Serbian food is flavorful and inexpensive. A meal at a local restaurant costs around €4-7. Popular dishes include ćevapi (grilled meat) and sarma (stuffed cabbage leaves). 
• Belgrade is known for its lively nightlife, with affordable bars and clubs. Entrance fees and drink prices are much lower than in Western Europe.

Albania

Albania is becoming increasingly popular among travelers for its stunning beaches, ancient ruins, and hospitable people. If you still wish to visit Albania in budget-friendly mode then you better hurry up because with its increasing popularity, the rates might soon increase. 

Why Albania is One of the Cheapest Countries to Travel in Europe:

• Hostels and guesthouses are very affordable, with prices starting at €10-15 per night. Even coastal towns like Saranda offer budget-friendly options.
• Albanian cuisine is diverse and cheap. A meal in a local restaurant costs around €5-8. Traditional dishes like byrek (pastry) and tavë kosi (baked lamb with yogurt) are delicious and inexpensive, 
• Albania’s beaches are among the most beautiful and least crowded in Europe. The Albanian Riviera offers stunning coastline and crystal-clear waters at a fraction of the cost of more famous Mediterranean destinations.

Georgia

Though technically at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Georgia is often included in European travel itineraries for its unique blend of cultures, stunning landscapes, and historical sites and so it is often listed as one of the cheapest countries to travel in Europe.

Why Georgia is One of the Cheapest Countries to Travel in Europe:

• Hostels and guesthouses are very affordable, with prices starting at €8-12 per night in Tbilisi and Batumi.
• Georgian cuisine is renowned for its flavors and affordability. A meal in a local restaurant costs around €4-7. Must-try dishes include khachapuri (cheese-filled bread) and khinkali (dumplings).
• Georgia is one of the oldest wine-producing regions in the world, and wine tasting is both a cultural experience and a bargain.

Read Also: 10 Hidden Gems Europe to Visit Before They Become Mainstream

Top Tips for Traveling on a Budget everywhere in Europe:

1. Travel Off-Season: Prices for accommodation and flights drop significantly during the off-season (late autumn to early spring).

2. Use Budget Airlines and Trains: Europe is well-served by budget airlines like Ryanair and Wizz Air, as well as affordable train services.

3. Book in Advance: For the best deals on accommodation and transportation, book as far in advance as possible.

4. Stay in Hostels or Guesthouses: Hostels and budget guesthouses offer affordable lodging options, and many provide private rooms for a bit more privacy.

5. Eat Like a Local: Dining at local eateries or buying fresh produce from markets is often cheaper than eating at touristy restaurants.

6. Take Advantage of Free Attractions: Many cities offer free walking tours, museums with free entry days, and public parks that are free to explore.

7. Use Public Transportation: Instead of taxis and private transfers, use buses, trams, and metro systems to get around cheaply.

Cheapest Countries to Travel in Europe in a Nutshell: 

You don’t have to break the bank to feed your wanderlust when you discover the cheapest countries to travel in Europe. Countries like Poland, Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, Slovakia, Serbia, Albania and Georgia offer incredible experiences at a fraction of the cost of Western Europe. By embracing budget-friendly accommodations, local cuisine, and free or low-cost activities, you can enjoy the rich history, diverse cultures, and stunning landscapes of Europe without spending a fortune. So pack your bags and get ready to explore these affordable European destinations!