Where to Travel in Europe on a Budget: Best Weekend Breaks for 2025

Dreaming of a European getaway but worried about the cost? The good news is that you don’t need a big budget to enjoy an unforgettable city break. Many European destinations offer cheap flights, affordable accommodation, and budget-friendly food and attractions, making them perfect for a weekend escape.

In this guide, we’ve rounded up some of the best affordable European weekend breaks, where you can explore, eat well, and soak up the culture—all helping to make a trip to Europe on a budget an achievable goal.

Krakow

If you’re looking for a city with stunning medieval architecture, rich history, and great food at low prices, Kraków is the perfect choice.

Why visit?

• Explore the charming Old Town and historic Wawel Castle.
• Discover the poignant history of Auschwitz-Birkenau (day trips from around £20).
• Enjoy delicious Polish street food like pierogi and zapiekanka for just a few pounds.

Budget highlights:

• Free walking tours of the Old Town & Jewish Quarter.
• Wawel Castle entry from £3.
• A hearty Polish meal for under £8.

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Budapest

Budapest is one of Europe’s most affordable and beautiful capitals, offering grand architecture, relaxing spa experiences, and a lively nightlife scene.

Why visit?

• Soak in the famous Széchenyi or Gellért thermal baths (entry fees vary depending on ticket/time/day).
• Visit Buda Castle and Fisherman’s Bastion for panoramic city views.
• Enjoy drinks at unique ruin bars, some of the cheapest in Europe.

Budget highlights:

• Free sightseeing along the Danube River & Chain Bridge.
• Cheap river cruises for around 15 Euro.
• A full meal including goulash and a drink from 10 Euro.

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Porto

Portugal’s second city is one of Europe’s best-value destinations, offering picturesque views, incredible food, and some of the cheapest wine tastings around.

Why visit?

• Wander the charming streets of the Ribeira district.
• Visit Livraria Lello, one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores said to have inspired some scenes for Harry Potter (10 Euro entry).
• Sample authentic port wine – tours from 14 Euro.

Budget highlights:

• Free tours of the Ribeira & Dom Luís I Bridge.
• Pastel de nata & coffee 2-7 Euro.
• Seafood dishes like sardines or bacalhau for 15 Euro.

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Sofia

Often overlooked, Sofia is one of the cheapest European capitals, offering a mix of history, stunning mountain views, and low-cost food and attractions.

Why visit?

• Visit Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, one of the largest in the Balkans.
• Take a free walking tour of Sofia’s historic center.
• Enjoy traditional Bulgarian cuisine for a fraction of the cost of Western Europe.

Budget highlights:

• Public transport tickets cost less than £1.
• Traditional meals like banitsa or shopska salad for under £5.
• Budget-friendly hikes to Vitosha Mountain (accessible by cheap public transport).

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Valencia

Valencia is a fantastic alternative to Barcelona, offering beautiful beaches, delicious food, and a lively cultural scene—all at a lower price tag.

Why visit?

• Stroll through the futuristic City of Arts & Sciences (free to visit outdoor areas).
• Relax on Valencia’s beaches, all free to access.
• Try authentic paella, the dish’s birthplace.

Budget highlights:

• Cheap tapas and wine bars offering deals from around 3 Euro per dish.
• Free entry to the Turia Gardens, perfect for cycling or walking.
• Low-cost flights from many UK & European cities.

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Bratislava

Bratislava, Slovakia’s charming capital, is one of the cheapest cities in Europe to visit, with affordable food, low-cost attractions, and easy access to Vienna for a two-in-one trip.

Why visit?

• Explore the Old Town’s fairytale streets.
• Take in Bratislava Castle’s stunning city views.
• Hop on a train to Vienna for just around £15 return.

Budget highlights:

• Free entry to Bratislava Castle gardens.
• Traditional Slovak meals (like dumplings) for under £5.
• Beer for as little as £1.50 in local pubs.

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Europe on a Budget – Travel Tips

• Book flights early: Use Skyscanner or Google Flights to find the best deals.
• Travel off-peak: Prices are lower if you avoid summer and major holidays.
• Consider alternative airports: Budget airlines often fly into smaller airports with cheaper fares.
• Use public transport: Many cities have cheap 24-hour passes for unlimited travel.
• Stay in affordable accommodation: Look for guesthouses, hostels, or budget hotels.
• Eat like a local: Street food, bakeries, and markets offer tasty, low-cost meals.

Image: Unsplash, K Mitch Hodge