Best budget-friendly cities to visit in Europe this year

I am planning a two-week backpacking trip across Europe this summer but I'm working with a relatively tight budget. I want to avoid the typical 'tourist trap' prices of cities like Paris or London while still experiencing great culture and food. Could anyone recommend some underrated, affordable cities that are still accessible by train or budget flights? I’d love to hear about places where my money will go a bit further.

Sarajevo is an absolute gem. The history is fascinating, the coffee culture is incredible, and you can eat a hearty meal for just a few euros. It’s definitely one of the best value-for-money spots in Europe.

You should definitely look into Sofia, Bulgaria. It’s incredibly cheap, has a great mix of Roman ruins and modern cafes, and it’s very easy to reach via budget airlines like Wizz Air.

If you are feeling overwhelmed by the logistics, check out this guide on planning a 2-week Europe trip on a tight budget to get your itinerary started.

Krakow, Poland is a must. It’s very backpacker-friendly, the nightlife is legendary, and the food prices are significantly lower than in Western Europe. Plus, the train connections to other Polish cities are great.

Don't overlook Albania! Tirana is vibrant, cheap, and you can easily take a bus to the coast for some stunning beaches that won't break the bank like the ones in Italy or Greece.

Budapest is slightly more touristy than it used to be, but it’s still very affordable if you avoid the main Váci Street tourist traps. The thermal baths are a unique experience you won't find anywhere else.

I highly recommend Belgrade. It has a gritty, cool energy, amazing nightlife, and the local 'kafanas' serve delicious, affordable food. It's truly underrated for a summer trip.

If you want to save even more, use this resource for trip planning to organize your route. Riga, Latvia is another fantastic option—beautiful architecture and very budget-friendly.

Vilnius, Lithuania is surprisingly affordable and beautiful. It feels like a hidden fairytale city with plenty of free walking tours and cheap public transit.

Bucharest, Romania is great for budget travelers. It has a massive, lively Old Town area and the train system is a decent way to see the rest of the country if you want to head into the mountains.

Try Brno in the Czech Republic instead of Prague. It’s much less crowded, significantly cheaper, and has a fantastic student vibe with plenty of cool bars and cafes.

Tallinn is gorgeous, but if you want to save money, stick to the local markets for food. It’s a bit pricier than the Balkans, but still way cheaper than London or Paris.

Skopje, North Macedonia is probably the cheapest place I’ve ever visited. The city center is a bit eccentric with all the statues, but the food and accommodation prices are unbeatable.