When you think of Europe, images of cosmopolitan cities like Paris and Rome might pop into your head. But let’s face it: those destinations can be notoriously expensive. If you’re looking to stretch your travel budget without missing out on the cultural wonders, there are plenty of underrated countries in Europe that won’t break the bank. Below, we’ve rounded up eight of the cheapest European countries—some of which are well-kept secrets. From natural beauty and historic architecture to vibrant local life and surprisingly cheap food and accommodation, these places offer experiences you’ll remember forever.
1. Albania
Albania is a small country in the Balkans that’s been flying under the radar for a while. It’s the kind of place where you can explore rugged mountains, dip your toes into crystal-clear beaches, and wander through ancient ruins—all on a shoestring budget.
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Where to go:
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Tirana: The capital city is home to colorful buildings, lively cafes, and a fascinating blend of Ottoman, Italian, and Soviet-era architecture.
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Ksamil & Sarandë: These coastal towns are known for their stunning beaches along the Ionian Sea.
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Berat and Gjirokastër: Both are UNESCO World Heritage Sites known for their well-preserved historic neighborhoods.
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What it costs:
You can find budget accommodations in Albania for around 15–25 EUR per night in smaller towns, and decent hotels often cost as little as 30–50 EUR. Meals are very affordable, with local restaurants serving Albanian specialties for about 5–10 EUR. Even traveling from city to city by bus won’t cost you more than a few euros. -
Why it’s awesome:
The landscape is astonishingly diverse for such a small country. You can hit the beaches in the south, go hiking in the Albanian Alps (the “Accursed Mountains” in the north), and enjoy vibrant cafe culture in the capital. Best of all, it’s still off most people’s radar, so you’ll get an authentic experience.
2. Bulgaria
Bulgaria has it all: ancient monasteries, beautiful Orthodox churches, Black Sea beaches, and alpine peaks. It’s an excellent place for anyone looking to save money without sacrificing adventure and culture.
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Where to go:
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Sofia: The country’s capital is packed with landmarks like the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and the Soviet Army Monument.
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Plovdiv: One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe, it boasts a well-preserved Roman theater and a charming old town.
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Black Sea Coast: Varna and Burgas are popular for summer getaways, with sandy beaches and lively nightlife.
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What it costs:
Budget travelers can find hostel beds for around 10–15 EUR per night and private rooms under 30 EUR. Street food, like the iconic banitsa pastry, costs only a couple of euros, and even a three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant might only set you back 10–15 EUR. -
Why it’s awesome:
Bulgaria is well-known among backpackers for its affordability, and yet it’s still overshadowed by trendier destinations. This means fewer crowds but loads to discover—like rose festivals, hot mineral springs, and world-class hiking.
3. Romania
Romania’s medieval towns, fortified churches, and the mystical Transylvania region have been drawing more attention in recent years, but it remains very budget-friendly, especially compared to Western European nations.
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Where to go:
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Bucharest: The capital might not be love at first sight for everyone, but it offers a quirky mix of grand boulevards, old Orthodox churches, and Communist-era blocks. Don’t miss the colossal Palace of Parliament.
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Brașov and Sibiu: These Transylvanian towns are picture-perfect, with Saxon architecture, cobblestone streets, and castles nearby (looking at you, Bran Castle—often linked to the Dracula legend).
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Cluj-Napoca: A vibrant university city known for its artsy vibe and lively nightlife.
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What it costs:
Hostels can be found for around 10–20 EUR, and even private Airbnb apartments in smaller towns might only cost 25–35 EUR per night. Local restaurants often serve hearty meals (ciorbă soups and polenta-based dishes) for under 10 EUR. -
Why it’s awesome:
Romania seamlessly blends the charm of medieval towns with the awe of Carpathian mountain landscapes. This is also where you’ll find some of Europe’s most unique legends and folklore, which add to its mysterious appeal.
4. North Macedonia
Squeezed between several Balkan neighbors, North Macedonia is easily overlooked. But with its dramatic lakes, ancient cultural sites, and budget-friendly living costs, it’s well worth exploring.
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Where to go:
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Skopje: The capital is known for its huge statues, eclectic architecture (mixing modern buildings with Byzantine-style domes), and the Old Bazaar area, which has Ottoman-era influences.
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Lake Ohrid: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its deep, crystal-clear waters and historic churches, monasteries, and fortresses.
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What it costs:
Skopje and other cities offer comfortable hotel rooms for 20–40 EUR. Local transport is cheap, and you can enjoy typical Macedonian dishes (like tavče gravče, a bean-based dish) for 5–8 EUR at local eateries. -
Why it’s awesome:
North Macedonia is incredibly rich in history and natural beauty. The locals are friendly, English is fairly widely spoken, and you’ll get a glimpse into a part of Europe that’s refreshingly off the main tourist trail.
5. Serbia
Serbia has become increasingly popular with digital nomads and backpackers in recent years, and it’s not hard to see why. From bustling Belgrade to the laid-back countryside, Serbia offers a distinct culture shaped by both Eastern and Western influences.
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Where to go:
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Belgrade: The “White City” is where the Danube and Sava rivers meet. Check out the historic Belgrade Fortress, the vibrant Knez Mihailova Street, and experience the city’s legendary nightlife.
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Novi Sad: Known as the “Serbian Athens,” Novi Sad is famous for its yearly EXIT music festival and well-preserved Petrovaradin Fortress.
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Tara National Park: Ideal for nature lovers who want scenic hiking trails, gorges, and maybe even a chance to spot wildlife.
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What it costs:
Serbia remains relatively inexpensive compared to its neighbors to the north. Hostels in Belgrade start at around 10–15 EUR per night, while a decent hotel might cost around 30–50 EUR. Traditional Serbian fare, like ćevapi or pljeskavica, costs only a few euros, and public transport is both reliable and cheap. -
Why it’s awesome:
Belgrade’s nightlife is legendary, with floating clubs (splavovi) lining the riverbanks. Serbia also has a rich cafe culture, and you can spend hours people-watching with a strong coffee (kafa) in hand. Because tourism here isn’t as massive as in other parts of Europe, everything feels more relaxed—and your travel funds go a long way.
6. Bosnia and Herzegovina
With lush green landscapes, striking Ottoman architecture, and a rich multicultural heritage, Bosnia and Herzegovina is slowly capturing the hearts of curious travelers. It’s also one of Europe’s best-kept budget-friendly secrets.
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Where to go:
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Sarajevo: The capital is often called the “Jerusalem of Europe” because of its diverse religious heritage. Wander the cobblestone streets of Baščaršija, the old Ottoman bazaar, and learn about the city’s tumultuous 20th-century history.
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Mostar: Famous for the iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Watch local divers leap into the Neretva River—a thrilling tradition.
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Blagaj: Visit the beautiful Dervish monastery tucked away at the base of a cliff near a turquoise spring.
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What it costs:
Accommodation in Sarajevo can be found for 15–25 EUR per night in hostels or guesthouses, while a comfortable hotel room might go for around 40–50 EUR. Hearty Balkan meals, like ćevapi and burek, are often under 5 EUR. -
Why it’s awesome:
Bosnia and Herzegovina is a fascinating cultural crossroads, blending Eastern and Western traditions. You can see mosques, synagogues, and churches all within walking distance of each other. The countryside offers rivers perfect for rafting, and the people are extremely welcoming.
7. Montenegro
Montenegro, which literally translates to “Black Mountain,” is known for dramatic landscapes—from the turquoise Bay of Kotor to rugged mountain ranges ideal for adventure sports. While it’s been gaining popularity, especially among beach lovers, you can still enjoy it on a modest budget.
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Where to go:
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Kotor: This medieval town is nestled between towering mountains and a winding bay that’s often compared to a fjord. Climb the ancient city walls for a breathtaking view.
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Budva: Popular for its nightlife and beaches, Budva is a hot spot during summer. Outside peak season, prices drop significantly.
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Durmitor National Park: A must-visit for hikers and nature enthusiasts; the Tara River Canyon here is one of the deepest in Europe.
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What it costs:
You can find budget-friendly hostels in the Kotor area for around 15–25 EUR a night. Renting an apartment in off-peak months can be shockingly cheap if you book in advance. Meals vary by location, but you can grab local specialties—think seafood and Balkan grilled dishes—for around 8–12 EUR. -
Why it’s awesome:
Montenegro packs a punch with its variety of landscapes in a small area. You can go from relaxing on a beach to hiking in the mountains in the same day. While it’s becoming more popular, you can still escape crowds and enjoy stunning vistas at prices much lower than in Western Europe.
8. Moldova
Tucked between Romania and Ukraine, Moldova is often overlooked by travelers. Despite its small size and relative anonymity, this Eastern European gem is a treasure trove of monasteries, rolling vineyards, and a genuine, unpretentious charm.
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Where to go:
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Chișinău: The capital city has broad boulevards, leafy parks, and Soviet-era architecture. Stroll around the bustling markets for fresh produce and local treats.
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Orheiul Vechi: A historical complex set in a dramatic cliffside, featuring ancient cave monasteries.
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Cricova and Milestii Mici: Two of the world’s largest underground wine cellars, offering tours and tastings.
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What it costs:
Moldova is incredibly cheap, even compared to its Balkan neighbors. A hostel dorm bed might cost as little as 10 EUR, and a comfortable mid-range hotel room could be found for 30–40 EUR. A nice restaurant meal with local wine could be as low as 10–12 EUR per person. -
Why it’s awesome:
Moldova’s still-developing tourism industry means you’ll encounter fewer crowds. Locals are warm and welcoming, especially if you show an interest in their culture or language. Plus, if you’re a wine enthusiast, you’ll be in heaven; Moldova has some of Europe’s oldest winemaking traditions.
Final Thoughts
All eight of these countries are perfect for budget travelers who want to explore Europe without burning a hole in their wallet. They offer a mix of historical landmarks, natural beauty, and authentic cultural experiences. You can indulge in delicious local cuisine, wander through UNESCO World Heritage Sites, hike dramatic peaks, and mingle with locals—all at a fraction of the cost you’d incur in Western Europe.
Sure, you won’t find the same level of global recognition as Paris or Rome here, but that’s also the beauty of these destinations: they remain relatively unspoiled by mass tourism, so your experiences will feel that much more authentic. You’ll get to make real connections with the places and the people, and you’ll probably come away with unique stories to share—stories that differ from the standard “I saw the Eiffel Tower” routine.
So if you’re itching for a European adventure but you’re watching your budget, consider heading east or diving deeper into the Balkans. Whether you’re sampling local wines in Moldova, climbing fortress walls in Montenegro, or getting lost in the cobblestone streets of Bosnia and Herzegovina, you’ll find yourself in awe of how much culture and beauty you can experience for so little money. Pack your bags and get ready to uncover a side of Europe that too many travelers still overlook—you won’t regret it.
