International tourism is expected to return to pre-pandemic levels this year as the last vestiges of COVID-19 travel restrictions are lifted and demand for travel continues unabated. There is no denying that the mighty call from Europe for many Americans, but the high cost of popular destinations like London, Paris and Rome can be a barrier.
Learn more: 9 American Travel Brands to Avoid
Try this: How to Get $340 a Year in Cash Back on Gas and Other Things You Already Buy
But there's no reason to be put off by the cost of a trip to Europe. With such a rich and diverse mix of history, culture and cuisine to discover, there are plenty of European cities you can visit. visit without breaking the bank.
Earning passive income doesn't have to be difficult. You can start this week.
Where to travel in Europe
According to a recent Priceline research, the most affordable nightly rates for hotels in Europe are:
-
Berlin, Germany: $127
-
Frankfurt, Germany: $138
-
Prague, Czech Republic: $145
-
Brussels, Belgium: $171
-
Geneva, Switzerland: $157
-
Budapest, Hungary: $175
Even average daily car rental rates in the most touristy places in Spain (Madrid and Barcelona), Ireland (Dublin and Shannon) and Italy (Lian and Rome) are among the cheapest in Europe.
However, many adventurers are looking to travel beyond the typical European vacation traps. If you want to travel but are on a budget, Mariana Montes, a travel expert and editor at Vibe Adventuressuggests taking an Eastern European itinerary, which will give you a wider choice of countries, including some stops in the Balkans.
Starting in Trieste, Italy, you can travel through Slovenia, before winding through Croatia, Serbia, Romania and Turkey. “You can then arrive in Macedonia and start your tour in reverse. If you have planned a 25-day vacation, you might have spent 625 euros ($680),” Montes said. “There are cities and places where you can spend much less than 30 euros. That will be enough to visit attractions, eat and sleep in good places without any worries.”
Current trend: 7 Vacation Destinations to Avoid on a Retirement Budget
10 cities where you can travel at a lower cost in Europe
Here are 10 budget-friendly European getaways that are perfect for curious globetrotters, brought to you by expert travelers.
1. Timisoara, Romania
According to the global luggage storage app BounceTimisoara is ranked as the most affordable city holiday destination in Europe, according to its 2023 City Holiday Cost Index. A hotel room in the city costs $105 per night and transportation is also affordable (the average taxi fare per kilometer is $0.66). The city was voted European Capital of Culture in 2021 and is full of cultural activities that will please even the most discerning traveler.
2. Vieste, Italy
“Located in Puglia, Vieste is a hidden gem that most people don’t talk about, but is a must-see,” said Taima Ramsey, travel expert and founder of Poor on a private plane “You can book a hotel on the beach, with sunbeds, for less than $100 a night. Some even include half-board or full-board. Most restaurants offer meals for around 10 euros ($11 USD), but there are a few hidden Michelin restaurants where you can spend more. We did a cave tour for just 20 euros ($22.85) per person. And they even have free beaches where you can just lay out your towel and enjoy the sun, sand and sea without paying a cent.”
3. Malaga, Spain
“The Costa del Sol region of southern mainland Spain is a charming and budget-friendly holiday destination, with its capital, Malaga, among the most affordable areas along the coast,” said Mercedes Zach, travel expert at Tickets as soon as possible. “Plus, almost everything is within walking distance and the climate is pleasant and warm all year round, with an average temperature of 25°C during the summer months. Beyond its 16 sunny beaches, this Andalusian city on the Mediterranean has a fascinating cultural side.”
4. Riga, Latvia
Riga, a Baltic beauty, is sometimes overlooked when considering the most affordable cities in Europe to visit. Known primarily for its architecture, art-loving tourists will appreciate Riga’s Gothic churches, medieval structures, ornate Art Nouveau streets, wooden houses, and contemporary artwork. It’s also a budget-friendly and family-friendly destination (an orange badge is displayed at kid-friendly activities and restaurants). Riga’s Old Town is steeped in over 800 years of history and is recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.
5. Kaunas, Lithuania
Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, has long been considered one of the cheapest destinations to visit, but if you head a little further west to Kaunas, you’ll save even more money. Named one of the 2022 European Capitals of Culture for its music, art, and theater, visitors will find plenty of free activities and events, and accommodations in four-star hotels start at $75 a night, according to Condé Nast Traveler. The annual CityTelling festival highlights the city’s Jewish heritage, and a funicular ride up Aleksoto Hill will set you back just a few euros for some of the best views in this Baltic city.
6. Brno, Czech Republic
Brno, Czech Republic, is the second most affordable city in Europe, according to Bounce. Transportation, food, and drinks are cheap, and you won’t be short of things to do in this lively and charming Moravian city. Avoid the predictable tourist hordes in Prague and experience a slower-paced Czech way of life instead.
7. Desenzano Del Garda, Lake Garda, Italy
“I travel to Italy a lot, so I have a lot of recommendations,” Ramsey added. “Desenzano is a great alternative to Lake Como. We booked an apartment for under $100 a night, just steps from the main square. Food and drink are relatively cheap compared to its nearby neighbors, with options under €10 and average restaurant meals around €15.”
8. Tirana, Albania
Zach recommends Albania's beautiful coastline for beach lovers, but suggests first-time travelers “start by exploring its capital, Tirana, which is distinguished by its colorful Soviet-era architecture and historic landmarks, quickly transforming into a vibrant, cosmopolitan hub with plenty to offer.”
9. Klagenfurt, Austria
Main meals in Klagenfurt can cost as little as $7, and the farmers market on Benediktinerplatz is a great place to find local offerings, Condé Naste notes. The city is also one of the most picturesque in Austria due to its prime location on the eastern shore of Lake Wörthersee. The most affordable time to visit is June, when the waterfront is cleared of summer tourists and irrational swimmers.
10. Madeira, Portugal
People think Lisbon is an expensive city, but it’s often ranked among the most affordable cities in Europe. However, you can find cheaper—and equally beautiful—places in Portugal. “Madeira has grown in popularity in recent years, but it’s still considered a hidden gem,” Ramsey said. “You can find a hotel and lodging for under $100 and vacation packages that include flights, hotel, and even tours for under $1,000. Flights from the U.S. vary, but the cheapest I’ve seen is $400. Food on the island is cheap compared to many European cities, with most meals averaging between 10 and 15 euros (about $10.90 to $16.40).”
More from GOBankingRates
This article was originally published on GOBankingRates.com: I'm a travel expert: here are 10 cities where you can travel cheaply in Europe
