How about talking about two things we love? Traveling and saving money! Yes, they sound like two terms that don’t fit in the same sentence, but around here we know that a good experience doesn’t just include traveling, but also planning carefully and not going over budget. It was with this in mind that we decided to share a list of the cheapest cities in Europe to visit and enjoy a lot without that financial headache when the trip is over.
And to help you start organizing your travel plans, we’re going to compare the average price of an Airbnb in each place, based on data from the financial comparison website Finder. In addition, we’ve included the cost of a pint (about 1/2 liter of beer) so you have a reference.
Ranking of the cheapest cities to visit in Europe:
1. Krakow, Poland
Krakow’s medieval history combines with the city’s festival atmosphere. Let’s start the list of the cheapest cities in Europe by recommending visiting as many historical sites as possible and enjoying the vibrant nightlife. Try to time your trip to coincide with one of the city’s many festivals, ranging from the Summer Jazz Festival and the Krakow Film Festival to the quirky International Soup Festival.
Average price for a one-bedroom Airbnb: 69€
Average beer: €2.50
2. Riga, Latvia
In Riga, it’s all about Art Nouveau. The architecture is seriously beautiful, and there’s a great, lively creative scene. Check out Putti, a modern gallery and event space, or Rīgas Birža for something more traditional. Looking for something less sophisticated? The booze here is really cheap – so if you want to have a good time, head to the Old Town to check out the more traditional bars.
Average price for a one-bedroom Airbnb: 57€
Average beer: €3.22
3. Český Krumlov, Czech Republic
Český Krumlov is a lot like Prague, but without the bachelor parties. Its labyrinthine baroque streets eventually lead you to the huge castle complex in the center. It’s beautiful in summer, but for really picturesque views, go in winter, when it’s covered in snow. Keep warm in one of the many cozy cafés or try traditional food in one of the live music venues. Average price for a one-bedroom
Airbnb: 88€
Average beer: €1.68
4. Bucharest, Romania
Bucharest is sensational if you’re looking for a good time. Don’t ignore the nightlife, just make sure you avoid the overrated bars near the center and head for one of the sky bars. You can also try delicious traditional food for affordable prices. Our recommendation is the legendary Caru’ cu Bere – order the grilled pork and a side dish of sauerkraut.
Average price for a one-bedroom Airbnb: 52€
Average beer: €1.73
5. Belgrade, Serbia
Chaotic, raw, crowded and super cheap – Belgrade is anything but a quiet vacation spot. Smoky bars and concert venues squeeze into the old socialist architecture, competing for space in the once desolate Savamala area, which is now home to a pulsating cultural scene. Head to Ada Ciganlija, a reclaimed island in the Sava River, if you want to find a small, quiet slice of nature.
Average price of a one-bedroom Airbnb: 45€
Average beer: €1.78
6. Kaunas, Lithuania
Kaunas will be a big highlight this year. It’s one of the European Capitals of Culture for 2022, and an incredible 1,000 events are being planned to celebrate. If you can’t make it to any of them, there are plenty of seriously impressive exhibition spaces open all year round, such as the Mykolas Žilinskas Art Gallery. And if you want something a little weirder, head to the seriously weird Devil’s Museum.
Average price for a one-bedroom Airbnb: 67€
Average beer: €3.30
7. Zagreb, Croatia
This city was made for walking (and for being on the list of Europe’s cheapest cities). We recommend that you walk from the beautiful and vast main square to practically every tourist spot. This will keep costs down and your exposure to amazing sights high. If you want to take a little more transportation, take the funicular up the hill for an unbeatable view. Or simply relax in one of the many, many cool cafés.
Average price for a one-bedroom Airbnb: 59€
Average beer: €2.12
8. Argos – Greece
Argos, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, is located in the heart of the Peloponnese in Greece. Imagine a mild Mediterranean climate and archaeological beauty stretching as far as the eye can see. According to legend, the city was once ruled by the son of Zeus. Because it’s not a common tourist destination, you can easily explore the ruins of the ancient theater, the prehistoric castle and the 6th century BC Roman Agora.
Average price of an Airbnb for one person: 44€
Average price of beer: 4,27€
9. Marsalforn, Malta
If you’re looking for a real break, head to Marsalforn, a charming fishing village in Malta. Marsalforn isn’t just ornate, it’s authentic. The local restaurants offer a wide variety of fresh fish and wonderful views of the ocean. Our suggestion is to bring a good book, put on your sunglasses and let yourself be carried away by the sea breeze.
Average price of an Airbnb for one person: 66€
Average beer price: €2.44
10. Sofia, Bulgaria
Sofia is truly stunning and deserves to be on the list of the cheapest cities in Europe. The domed churches scattered around the city certainly make for beautiful Instagram photos, as do the elaborate mosques, Soviet statues and grand galleries. Sofia is often overshadowed by Bulgaria’s ski slopes and beaches, which allows for peaceful exploration.
Average price of an Airbnb for one person: 53€
Average price of beer: 1,60€
11. Graz, Austria
Graz is one of Austria’s lesser-known treasures. The city, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was named Capital of Culture in 2003 and City of Culinary Delights in 2008. For a futuristic art experience, visit the Kunsthaus Graz. The gallery is housed in a building known as the ‘friendly alien’, which is impossible to miss with its wavy, scaly shape at the edge.
Average price of an Airbnb for one person: 74€
Average price of beer: 3,79€
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