If you’re dreaming of backpacking Europe – join the club! With approximately 700 million visitors annually, the tourism sector in Europe is booming. The fabulous continent features some top tourist locations in the world, from Bohemian Prague to lively Paris and from energetic Lisbon to timeless Rome. But be careful, if you are reckless with the prices, you may spend all your money.
- Slovakia
Slovakia is a joy to discover since it is located in the middle of Europe. There are several intriguing historical sites and cultural icons for travelers, including ancient castles and medieval villages hidden among its breathtaking surroundings. Wherever tourists walk, they will discover the country’s rich history and legacy, and they will explore many local customs and traditions. Slovakia is endowed with some stunning landscapes in addition to its numerous old cities and villages, which are fascinating to visit.
The average budget per day is about $110, although if you’re travelling on a super low budget you could easily get this down to around $70-80.
- Bulgaria
Bulgaria is decidedly Eastern European, sure. But blame the EU affiliation, since it feels a lot more Western or Central European than its Balkan neighbors. Its big cities are full of cultural treasures (Plovdiv was the European cultural capital in 2019), and its small towns with their imposing mountain backdrops will charm the pants off of you.
On top of that, the best things to do while traveling to Bulgaria are free. Bulgaria has some serious mountains – so it’s big for hikers and is also a great cheap ski destination. And, best of all, it welcomes wild campers. Save your levas and pitch a good tent for the night, then hike the highest peak in the Balkans (Masala) at sunrise. The average budget per day is about $50.
- Czech Republic (Czechia)
Significant cultural and historical cities and landmarks may be found in the Czech Republic, a nation that has been inscribed on the World Heritage List. Prague is by far the most well-known tourist destination in the Czech Republic. The city is often regarded as one of the most stunning capitals in the world, with a well-maintained core. It’s also one of the most major European hotspots for stag parties and wild weekends.
But there are many great cities to explore including Karlovy Vary, Czeke Budejovice and Brno.
The country is rich also with bewitching scenery and natural beauty. Expect to spend around $90 per day as a tourist in Czechia.
- Moldova
Being one of the least visited countries on the old continent has its advantages: Moldova is also one of the coolest low-cost countries in Europe. Moldova flirts with you through its fine wine and less-traveled countryside.
Because we’re in Eastern Europe, you’ll find some very pretty Orthodox churches. Plus cave towns, and castles.
The capital Chisinau is a chill, green city. Make sure to also visit Old Orhei, an important archaeological site. The average budget per day is about $20. Yes, you heard that right! It’s that cheap!
- Estonia
Estonia is wholly distinct, it doesn’t need to fight to stand apart. The splendid allure of its capital Tallinn, designated as a UNESCO-protected Old Town, has captivated Europe visitors’ hearts. The hypnotic area is currently among the continent’s most alluring cities.
In addition, Estonia’s unpopulated countryside and huge tracts of woodland offer spiritual sustenance to those drawn to the outdoors in urban Europe. The average budget per day is about $85.
- Kosovo
What you might’ve thought of as just a rebellious offshoot of Serbia turns out to be a delightfully weird, thoroughly European-minded country, with tons to explore. Plus, you get bragging rights for adding a weirdo country like Kosovo to your list of countries visited. Not that anyone counts, but still.
Kosovo is probably the cheapest country in Europe – one of the best cheap European countries to visit for sure! A typical hostel bed is about $10, and a meal at a restaurant is about $5. And all the delicious, delicious burek you can eat for $1 apiece.
And never mind what you hear about this little country’s rep. Kosovo is totally safe to visit. I’d stay out of the northern border areas because Serbia has still not exactly accepted that Kosovo is doing its own thing, so the vibe there can get weird. The average budget per day is about $25.
- Slovenia
Slovenia is the perfect destination for travelers seeking ideal green and safe getaway. The country is a marvelous symphony composed of elements from four separate worlds that is evident in the cuisine, culture, and natural wonders.
Everywhere tourists go, they will find breathtaking scenery and boutique experiences, whether they like to take the well-traveled pathways or veer off the beaten path. Popular spots such as Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj are stunning. And if you’re a fan of snowsports you can ski or snowboard on a budget in Slovenia too which is well worth checking out.
The average budget per day is about $75.
- Romania
The best 3 words to describe Romania are “authentic”, “natural”, and “cultural”. It is a vibrant nation steeped in history, arts, and stunning scenery and is one of the cheapest European destinations to travel in too.
There are a ton of fascinating possibilities in Romania just waiting to be found. A magnificent panorama of lofty mountains and undulating hills is dotted with imposing stone cathedrals and dazzling monasteries.
While lively Bucharest is full of vitality, Transylvanian communities have lost all sense of time. Head to places like Brasov or Sibiu for ‘the real Romania’. The average budget per day is about $70.
- Hungary
Hungary has become a very popular budget European travel destination and has many interesting places to visit. It is easy to access from across Europe due to its strategic position. Of course Budapest is where most people end up, which has become one of Europes main digital nomad destinations.
But there is more to Hungary than just it’s fun capital. Travel around and discover charming towns , such as Kecskemet or the towns around Lake Balaton. The average budget per day is about $60.
- Greece
Ancient and modern Greece has fascinating story to tell. Athens, its beautiful capital is one of the cheapest European cities to fly into in 2022, and home to the world’s oldest statues, temples, and monuments.
People visit this beautiful open-air museum to learn about a history that spans millennia and visit the Acropolis ancient citadel, the Temple of Zeus, the Temple of Athena Nike, and many other significant monuments. The average budget per day is about $110 per day, but it is worth it.
Conclusion
One thing to keep in mind when looking at this list is that the popularity of these beautiful countries is raising fast. After the collapse of Communism in Europe, their tourist industry started developing fast and they began catching up with their neighboring competitors.
Many of these once-underestimated destinations are no longer as underpriced as they used to be 10-15 years ago, plus the inflation. So in a near future, you’ll be seeing higher prices almost everywhere in Europe. My advice would be to include these beautiful destinations in your travel plans while they are still the cheapest countries to visit in Europe.
