Inexpensive European Destinations Worth Exploring: 21 Options
Travelling on a budget doesn't always mean sacrificing experiences. Europe, with its diverse cultures and landscapes, offers a multitude of budget-friendly destinations that cater to the thrifty explorer. Here are some hidden gems that might not always appear on the standard list of cheap countries, but are worth exploring.
Kosovo: A Hidden Gem in Europe
Known as one of the least travelled and cheapest countries in Europe, Kosovo offers an incredibly affordable travel experience. Rich in history and cultural sites, Kosovo is an ideal destination for those seeking a unique and budget-friendly adventure.
Gran Canaria Island, Spain: Affordable Sun, Sea, and Culture
While not generally considered one of the cheapest destinations, Gran Canaria is surprisingly affordable during the summer months due to low demand. Accommodation ranges from €50-70 per night, and affordable car rentals are readily available, making it a great choice for a budget-friendly holiday with a mix of sun, sea, and culture.
Extremadura & Castilla-La Mancha, Spain: Budget-Friendly Spanish Regions
These lesser-known Spanish regions are highlighted as affordable places to visit during the summer, thanks to lower tourist traffic and affordable local costs.
Svaneti Region, Georgia: Budget-Friendly Mountain Adventures
Recognized as a cheap travel spot, Svaneti offers a budget-friendly experience within Georgia, with beautiful mountain scenery and outdoor opportunities.
Prague, Czech Republic: Affordable City Break
Prague offers affordable accommodation and rich cultural experiences. Budget stays in Prague can cost as little as €1,500-2,200 for a week, making it an attractive destination for budget travelers seeking a city break.
Budapest, Hungary: Cost-Effective European Capital
Budapest remains a cost-effective European capital for budget travelers. With low-cost accommodation and activities, thermal baths, and historic sites, Budapest is a must-visit destination for those watching their pennies.
Beyond the Standard Cheap Countries
Exploring lesser-known countries like Kosovo, or specific affordable regions and islands in more popular countries like Spain’s Gran Canaria, can provide additional budget-friendly options in Europe.
Renting a car for a week in Bosnia and Herzegovina is possible for less than €100. In Poland, a central private double room or a fully equipped apartment can be found for less than £25 per night. Poland offers a diverse range of budget-friendly destinations, including Gdansk, Warsaw, Tatra National Park, and Sopot.
Skiing is very reasonable in Bulgaria, with a day pass in Bansko costing €32. In Slovakia, food and accommodations are budget-friendly, even in the capital city.
Albania offers budget-friendly accommodations with entire apartments in Tirana available for half the price of hostels in Western Europe. Food prices in Albania are very low, with a full BBQ feast costing less than £10.
In Slovenia, the capital city, Ljubljana, is beautiful and packed with history, and eating out is very well-priced.
These options expand the budget travel possibilities beyond the commonly cited cheap countries in Europe. Happy exploring!
Summary Table
| Destination | Reason for Budget-friendliness | Notes | |--------------------------|---------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------| | Kosovo | Very low travel costs, less touristy | Cultural and historical richness | | Gran Canaria Island | Lower prices in summer off-peak | Accommodation €50-70/night | | Extremadura & Castilla-La Mancha (Spain) | Affordable rural/less touristy Spanish regions | Good for summer travel | | Svaneti Region (Georgia) | Budget mountain destination | Scenic, outdoor activities | | Prague (Czech Republic) | Affordable city with rich heritage | Budget stays €1,500-2,200/week approx| | Budapest (Hungary) | Low-cost accommodation and activities | Thermal baths, historic sites |
- Kosovo, with its rich history and cultural sites, is an affordable destination for budget-conscious travelers seeking a unique adventure.
- Although not well-known for being cheap, Gran Canaria Island in Spain offers surprisingly affordable accommodations and car rentals during the summer months, making it a great choice for a budget-friendly holiday.
- The lesser-known regions of Extremadura and Castilla-La Mancha in Spain are ideal for summer travel, offering lower tourist traffic and affordable local costs.
- In Svaneti, Georgia, budget-minded travelers can enjoy budget-friendly mountain adventures amidst beautiful scenery.
- Prague, known for its rich cultural experiences and affordable accommodations, is an attractive destination for budget travelers seeking a city break at approximately €1,500-2,200 for a week.
