Affordable adventures await
Europe in 2025 doesn’t have to drain your wallet. Thanks to updated travel cost barometers and insider tips, you can explore rich history, vibrant cultures, and beautiful landscapes without breaking the bank.
From Eastern Europe’s hidden gems to surprisingly affordable Western capitals, we’ve rounded up the best budget-friendly cities for your next trip. Pack your curiosity, not just your credit card; you’ll be amazed how far your money can stretch.
Riga, Latvia
Riga tops the 2025 Post Office City Costs Barometer as Europe’s most affordable getaway, with an average cost of just £252 for two people.
This Baltic beauty boasts fairytale architecture, bustling markets, and cozy cafés at prices you’ll love. Even better, museums and public transport are incredibly cheap, so you can explore without worrying about your budget.
Vilnius, Lithuania
Vilnius slides in right behind Riga as the second-cheapest city for 2025, averaging £254 for a weekend break. The Lithuanian capital’s Baroque Old Town is a UNESCO treasure, filled with colorful facades, quirky art spaces, and warm hospitality.
While hotel prices have inched up slightly, meals and attractions remain highly affordable.
Warsaw, Poland
Warsaw, ranked third at £277, offers the perfect mix of history, modernity, and value. Poland’s capital is packed with museums, trendy cafés, and restored Old Town streets.
Affordable tram tickets make exploring easy, and traditional Polish dishes like pierogi cost far less than in Western Europe. Whether you’re visiting for its WWII history, vibrant nightlife, or lush parks, Warsaw lets you do it all on a budget.
Podgorica, Montenegro
Podgorica is a newcomer to Europe’s cheapest city list, averaging just £282 for two. Montenegro’s capital is a relaxed, uncrowded gem, offering mountain views, Ottoman-era landmarks, and Mediterranean flavors at wallet-friendly prices.
Its compact size means you can explore on foot, while day trips to the stunning coast or nearby vineyards add even more value.
Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is the cheapest Western European capital in 2025, with a weekend for two averaging £292. That includes famously affordable restaurant meals, scenic tram rides, and entry to must-see attractions.
From pastel-colored streets and tiled façades to soulful Fado music, Lisbon offers an authentic cultural feast without the high price tag of other capitals.
Lille, France
At £293 for a weekend trip, Lille proves France isn’t just for big spenders. This northern French city charms visitors with its Flemish-style architecture, vibrant markets, and cozy bistros.
You can sample pastries, browse art museums, and enjoy lively nightlife without Paris-level prices. Lille’s location also makes it perfect for a short European hop, especially with affordable rail connections from neighboring countries.
Gdansk, Poland
Gdansk is not only beautiful but also 35.6% cheaper than Lisbon, coming in at £297 for two. This Baltic port city offers a mix of medieval charm, waterfront dining, and fascinating history. think amber shops, shipyards, and pastel-colored streets.
Accommodation is notably low-cost, so you can stay longer without stressing about your budget. Affordable train links also make Gdansk a great base for exploring Poland’s northern coast.
Krakow, Poland
Krakow, at £300, remains one of Europe’s most beloved budget destinations. Its Old Town is straight out of a storybook, with affordable restaurants, lively squares, and centuries-old landmarks.
You can take a day trip to the Wieliczka Salt Mine or Auschwitz for a fraction of Western European tour prices. Known for its student population, Krakow offers plenty of low-cost cafés, bars, and cultural events, proof that history and hospitality can come cheap.
Porto, Portugal
At £305 for two, Porto offers all the charm of Lisbon but with a smaller, cozier feel. Famous for its port wine cellars and scenic Douro River views, Porto is full of affordable guesthouses, markets, and street food options.
You can wander the colorful Ribeira district, ride the tram, and sip a glass of port by the water without overspending. It’s a relaxed and budget-friendly way to enjoy Portugal’s cultural heart.
Zagreb, Croatia
Croatia’s capital, Zagreb, averages £310 for a weekend and offers a laid-back, budget-friendly alternative to coastal hotspots. With its mix of Austro-Hungarian architecture, lively markets, and charming cafés, Zagreb delivers a lot for less.
Street food, public transport, and entry to museums are all very affordable. Plus, it’s a great jumping-off point for day trips to national parks or the Adriatic coast without the high tourist prices of Dubrovnik or Split.
Bratislava, Slovakia
Bratislava might not have the fame of Prague, but it offers similar charm for much less. Affordable hotels, uncrowded streets, and free riverfront walks make it a budget traveler’s dream.
The Old Town is packed with historic buildings, cozy pubs, and quirky sculptures. And with Vienna just an hour away by bus or train, you can enjoy two cities for the price of one, without blowing your budget.
Kotor, Montenegro
Kotor combines dramatic mountain scenery with a medieval Old Town, all at a fraction of the price of the Mediterranean’s bigger names. Budget guesthouses, local bakeries, and free hiking trails make it perfect for cost-conscious travelers.
Whether you’re sailing in the bay or wandering ancient alleyways, Kotor offers breathtaking views without the luxury resort costs.
Belgrade, Serbia
Belgrade is one of Eastern Europe’s most affordable capitals, with cheap restaurants, lively nightlife, and historic sites. You can enjoy coffee culture along Knez Mihailova Street, explore the Belgrade Fortress, and experience the city’s famous club scene without overspending.
Public transport and accommodations are very affordable, making Belgrade a top pick for travelers who want both culture and fun at a low cost.
Sofia, Bulgaria
Sofia offers a budget-friendly blend of Eastern and Western influences, from Ottoman mosques to Soviet-era landmarks. Accommodation, public transport, and hearty Bulgarian meals are all highly affordable.
The city’s free walking tours and nearby hiking trails mean you can fill your itinerary without emptying your wallet. Plus, Sofia’s location makes it a great base for exploring Bulgaria’s mountains and historic towns.
Before you book that European getaway, check if your dream destinations are on the growing list of countries banning American tourists.
Split, Croatia
Split is a cheaper alternative to Barcelona or Nice, offering sunshine, beaches, and ancient history at a lower cost. While it’s more touristy in summer, off-season prices are a bargain.
Explore Diocletian’s Palace, relax on the waterfront promenade, and take affordable boat trips to nearby islands. Split proves you can enjoy a glamorous Mediterranean break without the luxury price tag. Plan your escape wisely by checking the best (and worst) times to book your flights.
Which city tops your travel list for 2025? Share your picks in the comments!
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This slideshow was made with AI assistance and human editing.
