Are you yearning for a European adventure but worried about breaking the bank? Fear not! In 2023, there are plenty of budget-friendly destinations that offer rich cultural experiences, stunning landscapes, and delectable cuisine without burning a hole in your pocket. Let’s explore the top 10 cheapest countries to visit in Europe (and around) in 2023.
1. Bulgaria: The Balkans’ Inexpensive Charm
Bulgaria has a combination of affordability, natural beauty, and history. Budget-friendly lodging is available, and the regional food offers a flavor of real Bulgarian culture in Europe.
Attractions:
– Take in Sofia’s architectural fusion of the antique and modern.
– See the Rila Monastery, which is listed by UNESCO.
– Enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the Rila Mountains.
Cultural Encounters:
– Take in regional celebrations that feature folklore from Bulgaria.
– Savor regional specialties like kavarma and banitsa.
Planning a Budget:
– Nightly hostel fees: $10–20
– Hotel nightly: $30 to $50
– Daily food costs: $15–25
– Recommended Daily Spending: $40–75
2. Romania: On a Budget, Dracula’s Land
Because it’s so affordable, exploring Romania’s rich history and landscapes in greater detail is possible. There are comfortable hotels and affordable hostels to choose in Europe.
Attractions:
– Visit Bran Castle, which is frequently connected to Dracula.
– Go to Sibiu, a historic town.
– Traverse the Carpathian Mountains on foot.
Cultural Encounters:
– Go to regional folk festivals.
– Try some regional specialties, such as sarmale and mămăligă.
Planning a Budget:
– Nightly hostel fees: $12–25
– Hotel nightly rate: $30–60
– Daily food costs: $15–30
– Recommended Daily Spending: $45-80
3. Poland: Magnificent History Without the Exorbitant Cost
Poland’s towns are a living museum of European history, and budget-friendly lodging and food options make it a great place to visit for history buffs in Europe.
Attractions:
– Explore Wawel Castle and Krakow’s Old Town.
– Visit Wilanów Palace and the Royal Castle in Warsaw.
– Take a tour around Wieliczka’s historic salt mines.
Cultural Encounters:
– Go to Market Square for cultural activities.
– Sample classic soups and pierogi from Poland.
Planning a Budget:
– Hostel nightly rate: $10–25
– Hotel nightly rate: $30–60
– Daily food costs: $15–30
– Recommended Daily Spending: $45-80
4. Hungary: Budget-Friendly Budapest
Budapest, well-known for its hot springs and exciting nightlife, offers cheap lodging and a wide range of dining options to suit the needs of low-budget tourists.
Attractions:
– Visit Fisherman’s Bastion and Buda Castle
– Unwind in the thermal springs in Széchenyi or Gellért.
– Take in the lively nightlife that stretches along the Danube.
Cultural Encounters:
– Take a Danube River cruise.
– Savor Hungarian cuisine, such as goulash.
Planning a Budget:
– Hostel nightly rates: $12–30
– Hotel nightly rates: $40–70
– Meals per day: $20–35
– Recommended Daily Spending: $55 – 595
5. Ukraine: An Jewel of Eastern Europe
Experiences in both natural and historical settings can be fully immersed because to Ukraine’s affordability. It’s a very appealing destination with affordable lodging and delicious local food.
Attractions:
– Take in the majesty of St. Sophia’s Cathedral and other ancient sites in Kyiv
– Wander through the quaint cobblestone alleyways of Lviv.
– Take in the Carpathian Mountains’ stunning landscape.
Cultural Encounters:
– Go to shows of traditional dance.
– Try the varenyky and borscht flavors.
Planning a Budget:
– Hostel nightly rate: $8-20 – Hotel nightly rate: $25-50
– Daily food expenses: $10–25
– Recommended Daily Spending: $35–75
6. Portugal: Adventures in the Sun Without the Splurge
Portugal offers a wide range of affordable travel options, from energetic cities to stunning beaches. Affordably priced lodging and delicious food elevate the whole experience.
Attractions:
– Take a tour of Lisbon’s historic districts.
– Unwind on the Algarve’s beaches.
– See the renowned wine cellars in Porto.
Cultural Encounters:
– Go to concerts featuring Fado music.
– Enjoy seafood and Portuguese pastries.
Planning a Budget:
– Hostel nightly rate: $15-30
– Hotel nightly rate: $40-70
– Daily food costs: $20–35
– Recommended Daily Spending: $75–100
7. Greece: Low-Cost Island Visiting
Greece is known for its islands, but there is also reasonably priced adventure to be had on the mainland. Greece offers affordable attractions that appeal to a wide range of interests, from breathtaking landscapes to ancient history.
Cultural Encounters:
– Take part in Greek dance costumes.
– Samples of souvlaki and moussaka.
Planning a Budget:
– Hostel nightly rate: $15-35
– Hotel nightly rate: $50-80
– Daily food costs: $25–40
– Recommended Daily Amount: $70-120
8. North Macedonia: A Balkan Gem Hidden Away
The affordability of North Macedonia makes it possible to fully explore its natural and cultural treasures. Local food and reasonably priced lodging all add to a budget-friendly experience.
Attractions:
– Explore Skopje’s blend of European and Ottoman architecture
– See Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its historic churches.
– See Matka Canyon and go on outdoor excursions.
Cultural Encounters:
– Go to cultural events in Skopje’s Old Bazaar
– Sample regional specialties like ajvar.
Planning a Budget:
– Hostel nightly rate: $10-20
– Hotel nightly rate: $30-50
– Daily food costs: $15–25
– Recommended Daily Spending: $40–75
9. Montenegro: Affordable Adriatic Beauty
The Adriatic beauty of Montenegro is budget-friendly, offering reasonably priced lodging and a variety of outdoor pursuits for those who enjoy the great outdoors.
Attractions:
– Discover Kotor, a historic village.
– Unwind on Budva’s beaches.
– A hike in the National Park of Durmitor.
Cultural Encounters:
– Go to Kotor’s cultural festivals.
– Taste cheeses and wines from the area.
Planning a Budget:
– Hostel nightly rate: $15-30
– Hotel nightly rate: $40-70
– Daily food costs: $20–35
– Recommended Daily Spending: $75–110
10. Turkey: Affordably, East and West Meet
Turkey provides a distinctive fusion of cultures at a reasonable cost because of its rich history and varied landscapes. Travelers on a tight budget will find it to be an alluring destination with affordable lodging and delectable food.
Attractions:
– Take a tour of Hagia Sophia and the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul.
– See the historic Ephesus ruins.
– Unwind on Antalya’s beaches.
Cultural Encounters:
– Taking in the expansive vistas from a Bosphorus cruise
– Snacking on baklava and traditional Turkish tea.
Planning a Budget:
– Hostel nightly rate: $10–25
– Hotel nightly rate: $30–60
– Daily food costs: $15–30
– Recommended Daily Spending: $55–$90
A strategic planning strategy is necessary to go on a budget-friendly European vacation, striking a balance between attractions, cultural experiences, and budgetary considerations. These top 10 cheapest countries in Europe (and around) in 2023 offer a variety of experiences that won’t break the budget, from the charm of Bulgaria to the appeal of Turkey. When organizing your trip, take into account the recommended daily spending limits, look into reasonably priced lodging options, and take in the diverse cultural offerings of each location. Prepare your belongings, welcome the journey, and explore the reasonably priced attractions that lie ahead of you in the upcoming year.