Cost-Effective European Destinations Worth Exploring in 2021
For budget-conscious travellers seeking to explore Europe without breaking the bank, there are a plethora of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Here are some lesser-known yet affordable countries that offer a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Kosovo, one of Europe's least-travelled countries, is a must-visit for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure. With prices that are very affordable for travellers, Kosovo boasts a rich history and stunning landscapes that are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Albania, another hidden gem, is known for its stunning mountains, rich history, and beautiful beaches. The country's food and accommodation costs are relatively low, making it an excellent choice for budget travellers.
Croatia, while not as cheap as some of its Eastern European neighbours, offers a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty at a relatively lower cost compared to Western Europe. It is a good option for those looking for a budget-friendly Mediterranean experience.
Slovenia, although more expensive than some Eastern European countries, is still cheaper than many Western European nations. It offers stunning landscapes, lakes, and waterfalls, making it a great choice for nature lovers.
Portugal, compared to other Western European countries like Spain and France, is relatively more affordable. It provides a vibrant culture, beautiful landscapes, and a rich history at a lower cost.
Slovenia is an affordable destination with well-priced dining options and lower prices for attractions and historic sites. Bulgaria, another budget-friendly destination, offers many free attractions such as monuments, national parks, beaches, museums, and festivals.
Hungary is an affordable destination with well-priced dining options and a rich folk tradition. Romania, known for its affordability, offers dinner for two with drinks included for approximately €20 per person, even in the most expensive Romanian cities.
North Macedonia, with places like Skopje and Ohrid Lake, offers a mix of affordability and memorable experiences. A decent holiday apartment costs between €25 and €30 per day, while food is cheaper due to the abundance of family-run small restaurants. Public transport is not developed, so hiring a car is a wise choice, costing approximately €12 a day.
Malta is another affordable European destination, with travel costs being reasonable and mid-range and high-end restaurants offering delicious food at a fair price. Albania offers intercity buses that cost as little as spare change, and full BBQ feasts can be enjoyed for less than £10.
The Czech Republic, outside of Prague city centre, offers affordable dining and travel options. A 0.5l of draft beer in a restaurant costs €1.5, a meal in a restaurant costs €5-6, and Regiojet train from Prague to Brno (205 km) costs €4-6.
Poland offers central private double rooms or fully equipped apartments in big cities for less than £25 per night, and food prices depend on the type of eatery but can be had for less than £10 in big cities.
Serbia offers meals in a restaurant that cost as little as €10 per person, beers that cost €1.5-2, and coffee for €1. The average price for a 4-star hotel is around €80 a night.
Greece offers affordable major cities like Athens and Thessaloniki, as well as off-the-beaten-track islands like Paros or Milos. Croatia, especially the Istria region and the sleepy island of Vis, offers lower prices and fewer crowds compared to popular cities like Dubrovnik.
Bosnia and Herzegovina offer affordable travel options, with going out for dinner rarely exceeding more than €10 per person. Renting a car for a week is possible for less than €100, and a double room in a mid-range hotel costs between €30 and €40.
Spain offers affordable travel options, with budget flights and lower prices in less touristy regions like Asturias, Galicia, and Andalusia. The Canary Islands, outside of peak season, prices are often very reasonable. On Lanzarote, some of the quieter areas to stay are Órzola or Caleta de Famara.
Slovakia offers food and beer that are relatively cheap, and great accommodations are budget-friendly, even in the capital city. Cyprus is a mid-range European destination with affordable transportation, food, and accommodation prices.
Georgia is one of the cheapest countries to visit in Europe, with intercity marshrutka buses costing between €0.50 to €5, and restaurant meals for two costing around €15. Latvia offers a budget-friendly holiday with many interesting sights and history, while Lithuania offers a budget-friendly trip with many free attractions.
These countries offer a great balance of affordability and memorable experiences for travellers, making Europe an accessible and exciting destination for budget-conscious explorers.
Kosovo and Albania, with their affordable prices, rich histories, and stunning landscapes, are ideal destinations for budget-conscious travellers seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures. Croatia, while slightly more expensive, still provides a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty at a relatively lower cost compared to Western Europe, making it a good option for budget-friendly Mediterranean experiences. Slovenia, Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania, North Macedonia, Malta, the Czech Republic, Poland, Serbia, Greece, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Spain, Slovakia, Cyprus, Georgia, Latvia, and Lithuania are other affordable European destinations that offer a unique blend of history, culture, natural beauty, and adventure. These countries offer a great balance of affordability and memorable experiences, making Europe an accessible and exciting destination for budget-conscious explorers.
