Planning a Europe trip on budget? Start with these cities
Europe is often perceived as one of the most expensive holiday destinations, especially for Asian travellers. A single trip to Europe for an Indian tourist can sometimes cost as much as two vacations in Southeast Asia. While cities like Paris, Rome, and Amsterdam are stunning, they tend to be crowded and come with steep prices.
However, not all European destinations are as costly as you might think. Time Out has published a list of the budget-friendly European cities to visit in 2026, highlighting places where food, drinks, and accommodations are affordable, and the crowds are less overwhelming. If Europe is on your bucket list but your budget is tight, these cities might be the perfect opportunity for you to explore.
5 budget-friendly European cities to visit in 2026
1. Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Average one-bed Airbnb: €40
Average pint: €2.30
Sarajevo, the capital and cultural heart of Bosnia and Herzegovina, tops the Time Out list. Nestled amidst the stunning Dinaric Alps, Sarajevo is often referred to as the ‘Jerusalem of Europe’ due to the coexistence of cathedrals, churches, mosques, and synagogues. The city boasts a rich history shaped by Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian influences, along with its wartime past (the Latin Bridge, known for the assassination that triggered World War I, is located here). Time Out recommends visiting local food markets like Gradska tržnica Markale, trying traditional burek, and enjoying drinks that cost as little as €2. One of the highlights is the opportunity to join several free walking tours, during which a guide will show you all the must-see attractions.
2. Tirana, Albania
Average one-bed Airbnb: €52.50
Average pint: €1.65
Tirana, located in the heart of the Balkans, is one of Europe’s most underrated and affordable capitals. The city features numerous beautiful churches, colorful buildings showcasing Ottoman and Communist-era architecture, parks, street art, and lush greenery. According to Time Out, notable places to visit include Bunk’art 1, a Cold War bunker turned museum that offers insights into the past at low entry fees, and the Pyramid of Tirana, originally built as a museum and now serving as a cultural hub that houses cafes, restaurants, and offices.
3. Hull, United Kingdom
Average one-bed Airbnb: €80
Average pint: €5.60
While the UK is generally not known for being inexpensive, Hull, a port city in East Yorkshire, stands out as an exception. Although it may not be the cheapest destination, it offers lower prices compared to other UK cities like London or Manchester. With more than 800 years of seafaring history, Hull is home to a large aquarium featuring 3,000 species and an underwater viewing tunnel. Visitors can explore various museums and art galleries or admire the impressive architecture that surrounds the city. Time Out has praised Hull for its vibrant culture, LGBTQ+ scene, and well-preserved old town, which survived bombings during World War II. In 2024, the city ranked second in Time Out’s list of the best places to visit in the UK.
4. Miskolc, Hungary
Average one-bed Airbnb: €55
Average pint: €1.60
Miskolc is a tranquil Hungarian city best known for its heavy industry, but Time Out highlights its lively bar scene, flea markets, and easy access to nature. One of the city’s major attractions is the Cave Baths of Miskolctapolca, a thermal spa located inside a natural cave, offering an affordable and relaxing experience without being too crowded. Visitors can also explore national parks, such as Bukki National Park, or enjoy lakeside camping.
5. Zagreb, Croatia
Average one-bed Airbnb: €65
Average pint: €2.50
As the capital of Croatia, Zagreb serves as the primary transport hub of the country, where routes from Central Europe, the Mediterranean, and Southeast Europe converge. This makes it a significant city for road, rail, and air travel. Zagreb offers a high quality of life, a strong economy, and plenty of activities to enjoy, including museums, festive markets, and numerous sports and entertainment events. The city is very walkable, allowing you to explore most attractions on foot and save on transportation costs. Additionally, both food and accommodation are reasonably priced.
