Travelers can enjoy the best of Europe without spending a fortune. From exploring historic towns and cities to relaxing on beaches, there are many budget holiday locations that will make your trip worthwhile.
Rather than browsing OTAs and hotel websites individually, you can use an aggregator site.
1. Pelion Peninsula
The Pelion Peninsula is a gorgeous and authentic unspoiled Greek paradise. A protected National Park, it offers beautiful beaches that aren’t crowded and rocky cliffs that create dramatic scenery. The water is warm and crystal clear, and dolphins are sometimes seen swimming off the coast. The people are generous and welcoming.
The main town of Volos is a good base from which to explore the rest of the region. There are a variety of charming villages that can be explored by hiring a car. Potistika and Paltsi are two of our favourite beaches, while Damouchari has a special claim to fame, being the location where scenes from the Mamma Mia movie were filmed.
Every village has a selection of traditional tavernas, where you can sample delicious Greek cuisine. Expect small dishes called mezes and excellent local wines. Some of the restaurants are table-clothed, such as Kritsa in Portaria, where renowned chef Ioannis Baxevanis serves up cutting edge contemporary cuisine. But most are relaxed family-run affairs, often in the enchanting setting of a cobbled village square.
2. Gdansk
Gdansk, Poland is one of Europe’s most beautiful and affordable cities. It is a perfect vacation destination for people who enjoy European culture and history, as well as delicious Polish food. The city is also home to some of the best beaches in the country.
One of the most popular things to do in Gdansk is to stroll through its historic Old Town. The streets are lined with gorgeous pastel-colored houses and portside cranes. Guests can explore the medieval architecture of the city by visiting the museums, or they can take a tour to learn more about its history.
The Neptune Fountain is another popular attraction. It is said that locals would throw coins into the fountain in order to have good luck. The coins were later used to make the popular drink Goldwasser.
Those who are interested in learning more about the city can take a trip to the Hevelianum, an interactive and disability-friendly museum. The museum is free to enter and is a great way for visitors of all ages to learn about the history of Gdansk.
3. Hungary
Many travelers believe that traveling in Europe is an expensive affair, but this does not have to be the case. A little bit of research and some smart shopping can make your money go much further than you expect. Traveling in the off-season is also a great way to save money on European holiday destinations.
Budapest is a wonderful city to visit year round, but it is especially lovely in February when the weather is mild and sunny. You can explore the sights and spend evenings relaxing in the thermal baths, which are cheaper during this time of the year.
Budapest is served by the Budapest Franz Liszt International Airport, which is a major hub for low-cost airline Wizz Air. The airport is located south of the city and is well connected by regional trains and the FEX Airport Express train, which takes about 30 minutes to reach the city center. There are also plenty of bus lines connecting the airport to the city.
4. Cyprus
Cyprus is a Mediterranean island that stands at a cultural, linguistic, and historical crossroads between Europe and Asia. It is renowned for its beaches and ancient landmarks, including the Tombs of the Kings in Kato Pafos. It is also home to the House of Eustolios, which showcases intricate mosaics.
The Troodos Mountains are a nature-lover’s paradise, featuring lush greenery and picturesque villages. They are also a great place for skiing and snowboarding, especially during the winter months. At an elevation of 1,952 m, Mount Olympus is the highest mountain in Cyprus.
If you want to experience authentic Greek island life without spending a fortune, consider staying in Paros or one of its charming fishing villages. Accommodation is inexpensive, and food in restaurants is fresh and delicious. In addition, the beaches are beautiful and offer a variety of activities to keep you entertained. This is why it is considered a top budget holiday location in Europe. In fact, it is the cheapest European destination for the second year in a row. Moreover, it is a great option for families and couples alike.
5. Latvia
Latvia is one of the cheapest countries in Europe for travelers. The country’s capital, Riga, is a beautiful city with many historic buildings to visit. Visitors can also enjoy the beach and a great selection of restaurants and cafes. However, it is important to book a hotel in advance because the city is very popular with tourists. Getting around the city is easy by public transportation, and the cost is low. You can also use the GetYourGuide website to find free activities in the city.
Latvia is bordered by Estonia, Russia, and Lithuania, so it has a lot of interesting places to explore. In addition to the capital, Riga, the country has several interesting coastal towns and villages that offer a glimpse of daily life in this small European nation.
The cheapest way to travel in Latvia is by air. The country’s main airport is located in Riga, and it serves flights to and from a number of European destinations. The prices of flights to Latvia vary, but you can usually find deals on Skyscanner.
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