We all love to travel and most of us save money all-year-round for a chance to go and explore a foreign country or a different city as to take a break from the routine.
But traveling doesn’t necessarily mean having to spend big bucks, as there are plenty of great budget-friendly cities around, full of amazing things to do and see.
This is our list of best European cities to visit with under 30 euros per day.
So better start packing … we guarantee you won’t have to break the bank for your next trip!
Bucharest, Romania
The capital of Romania shows on its skin all the signs of history, some of them are unfortunately brutal. However, there is a lot to do and see in the city nicknamed “Little Paris” during the roaring 20’s. From the Soviet-style buildings, to the beautiful Art Nouveau palaces, Bucharest’s many different faces will amaze you.
Be sure not to miss (as a matter of fact, that would be pretty difficult to do!) the House of the Palace of the Romanian Parliament, also known as the People’s House, the second largest administrative building for civilian use in the world, after the US Pentagon.
Head to the old city centre to enjoy one of the liveliest atmospheres and some of the cheapest bars you will find in Europe.
Fun for free
Take a stroll around Herastrau park, one of the biggest and most popular sites in Bucharest.
Kiev, Ukraine
Kiev is one of the oldest cities in all of Europe and also one of the largest on our list.
The Ukrainian capital is not exactly what we would call a popular tourist destination. However, that comes with a plus, as it means that prices are generally very low, which makes the city one of the most affordable to explore.
Travellers can enjoy a huge variety of things to do. From its incredible nightlife scene, with particular emphasis on techno music, a true staple of the city’s clubs, to its cobbled streets in the old city, full of markets and cafes, we can definitely call Kiev one of the last hidden gems of Europe.
Fun for free
Visit the baroque church of St Andrew, one of the most beautiful buildings in all of Ukraine.
Belgrade, Serbia
Get ready to unleash your wild side in one of the most enjoyable and cheapest European cities.
Belgrade is the hedonistic and festive capital of Serbia, where restaurants, pubs and clubs are packed every night of the week.
Belgrade’s nightlife is somewhat unorthodox. Bars are located everywhere, from former politicians’ mansions, to abandoned warehouses, the city knows how to enjoy itself!
Belgrade lights up mostly during the summer, when the Sava river is full of people and markets that stay open until very late at night.
If you prefer a quieter time, head to Skadarlija, where cobblestone streets intertwine with each other, and where cute cafes and live street performers help create a truly magical atmosphere.
Fun for free
Visit the Temple of St Sava, the second largest Orthodox church in the world and one of the most famous monuments in Belgrade.
Krakow, Poland
The second most famous city in Poland, after the country’s capital Warsaw, is quickly catching on among travellers around the world, thanks to its delicious food scene, its rich history and culture, but, above all, thanks to its incredibly cheap prices!
Krakow is the go-to place for history aficionados, who will enjoy visiting St Mary’s Cathedral, the quaint Jewish Quarter and especially Wawel Castle, built in the 14th century and a UNESCO Heritage Site.
Finally, finish the day in one of Krakow’s many traditional Polish gospodas and enjoy a mouthwatering kielbasa, Poland’s world-famous sausages.
Fun for free
Follow the Royal Route from the centre of Old Krakow to Wawel Hill and admire the unique architecture of the city, with its Gothic churches and its royal residences.
Porto, Portugal
The city of Porto is best known for its mellow, historical atmosphere, best if enjoyed on the banks of its river, the Douro, a popular choice for river cruises. The city has witnessed a renaissance in recent years and is now home to one of the most vibrant and exciting scenes in Europe, particularly popular among young travellers.
Buildings covered with splendid azulejos, the traditional Portuguese painted tin-glazed ceramic tiles, are everywhere in town, and the river Douro offers to weary visitors the chance to relax while sipping on a glass of Porto in one of the many famous restaurants and bars along its banks.
Fun for free
Visit one of the many free art galleries around town, like the “Miguel Bombarda”, the “Quadrado Azul” and the “Presenca”, all home to groundbreaking works from international artists, such as Tàpiese and Nikias Skapinakis.
Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
A difficult past, but a bright and prosperous future, Sarajevo is a lovely surprise for curious travellers without a lot of money to spare.
The city is a fusion of cultures, with Balkan and Turkish influences that go back to many centuries ago.
The culinary landscape is also one of Sarajevo’s strongest selling points, so don’t miss the chance to try the traditional Klepe, meat-filled dumplings ravioli, a huge variety of beef and pork stews, and a glass of Slivovitz, a particularly strong and plum brandy, typically enjoyed after a hearty Balkan meal.
Also, make sure to hop on the cable car from the city centre to Trebevic, and enjoy some breathtaking views of Sarajevo, you won’t regret it!
Fun for free
Take advantage of the free walking tours organised by local history students to learn more about the city’s tumultuous past.
Riga, Latvia
Riga is considered a very popular destination for travellers on a budget, and with good reason!
Partygoers are attracted en masse by its low prices and its nightlife, that features a plethora of clubs and bars.
But that’s not everything Riga has to offer. Hangover permitting, head to the central market in the old town during the morning and look for bargains at the Spīķeri Flea Market, where treasure hunters and vintage oddities enthusiasts gather.
Spend the rest of the day strolling through the narrow streets of Centrs, a beautiful central neighbourhood, home to Art Nouveau buildings, cute cafes and small shops.
Fun for free
Marvel at the incredible architecture of the Nativity of Christ Cathedral, undoubtedly one of the most impressive religious buildings in the Baltic area.
And, if you prefer the open spaces, escape from the city, head to the beautiful Kronvalda park and walk along the canal that runs through it.
Budapest, Hungary
Another excellent travel bargain, Budapest is a surprisingly all-around cheap destination, which definitely doesn’t feel like it at first glance.
The city is truly stunning and, if its imposing castles and historical cathedrals are not enough, Budapest is home to one of the best thermal spas in the entire world, some of them actually remarkably affordable.
And what better way to finish the day than a delicious plate of goulash, Hungary’s most iconic dish. A piece of advice, the best restaurants are to be found in the Jozsefvaros neighbourhood, off the beaten path and far from the inner city tourist traps.
Fun for free
Wander through Kerepesi Cemetery, the resting place for many of the country’s most famous historical figures.
Palermo, Italy
Palermo is one of the most beautiful low-cost cities to visit in Italy. Packed with Mediterranean flavour, the queen town of Sicily welcomes visitors of all kinds, from the foodie, to the culture freak, to the outdoors type.
It goes without saying that food is one of Palermo’s fortes! Pistachio cannoli, delicious cassata cakes and hot arancini, there’s something for everyone’s taste.
If that wasn’t enough, around town you will have the chance to marvel at magnificent Moorish-style palaces, visit ancient Greek theatres and enjoy some of the most lively markets in all of Europe, like the Vucciria and the Ballarò, the latter one famous for its fish stands.
Palermo will stun you with its food, its beauty and its perennial mild climate. All of that at a definitely affordable cost.
Fun for free
Visit the Foro Italico, a large public garden near the sea, the ideal place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of downtown Palermo.
Warsaw, Poland
The perfectly reconstructed historic centre of Warsaw is a small jewel of colourful facades, narrow alleys, elaborated street lamps and lovely hidden squares.
There are two landmarks not to miss for any reason while in Poland’s capital: the Old Town Market Square, perfect for a quiet drink in the shade of some superbly decorated townhouses, and the Castle Square, in front of the Royal Castle, the former official residence of Polish monarchs.
Just outside the centre, along the ancient “Royal Road”, you will be able to reach two royal parks: the Wilanow and the Lazienki, both of them legacy of kings, noblemen and wealthy merchants.
Fun for free
Head to the Vistula beaches, just outside town, a popular destination for young travellers.
Bratislava, Slovakia
Known as the “Little Big City”, the capital of Slovakia is not yet super popular for tourists, which makes it easier and, most importantly, cheaper to discover.
Almost every place in Bratislava is at walking distance, which means that you can easily explore it on foot without having to use taxis or buses.
Stroll along the Danube and mingle with locals drinking coffee and chatting together.
Make sure to climb up to Bratislava Castle to enjoy a fabulous view of the city from above.
While definitely not as beautiful as Prague or Vienna, Bratislava boasts a unique atmosphere and a yet undiscovered charm, so try to get to it before it gets popular!
Fun for free
Visit the Blue Church of St. Elizabeth, located in the city centre, just outside the old town walls.
Athens, Greece
Athens is undoubtedly one the European capitals that everyone, sooner or later, must pay a visit to.
Few cities in the world are able to convey the same sense of eternity and the feeling of being catapulted into ancient history as the Greek capital .
And if that wasn’t enough, Athens is also remarkably cheap!
Full of bars and restaurants, with a fiery heart and a Mediterranean charm, a trip to Athens is worth every penny you can spare.
Look up from virtually everywhere in the centre and you will be able to marvel at the Acropolis, a site which will surely give you goosebumps for it is steeped into the country’s roots.
Make sure to visit Syntagma Square to witness the traditional daily changing of the guards.
To finish the day, head to lively neighbourhood of Plaka, home to some of the most lovely cafes and taverns in town.
Athens is almost a moral obligation for a traveller… So, what are you waiting for?
Fun for free
Admire the stunning archaeological wonders on display at subway stations around town, namely Syntagma, Panepistimio, Acropolis, and Monastiraki.