I'm always on the hunt for cities that are affordable and exciting at the same time.
Not every trip needs to cost the world, and you will find budget-friendly cities in all corners of Europe, but only a handful provide a luxurious ambiance.
Here are some of the cities that we found to be more affordable compared to other very well-known tourist hubs and that feel rich and lovely.
Each isn't just cheaper than Paris, Rome, London, and co., but they are also fantastic destinations worth every penny.
You will find plenty of things to do, great food, a chill atmosphere, and lovely views while saving money during your trip.
Tip: Compare with the most Tourist crowded destinations in Europe.
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is the capital of Hungary. The towns, Buda and Pest, were merged into one (technically it's three), and the city was the co-capital, with Vienna, of the Austro-Hungarian Empire.
If you love Vienna, the Belle Époque, and old-world style, then Budapest should be at the top of your bucket list destinations.
Wander around the largest indoor market hall in Europe, enjoy the views from the castle hill to the Pest county, experience the thermal waters, and eat spectacular goulash or Langos.
Prague, Czech Republic
Prague is the capital of the Czech Republic, and it's one of our favorite cities in Europe. Prague never disappoints, and it has something to offer for everyone.
The city has a dark, mysterious vibe, which adds to the appeal and theme. Take the Charles Bridge and the view to the castle hill. It will literally transport you back in time.
You can plan a trip here all year round. Winters in Prague are wonderfully crisp, and you might encounter snowfall in December as you stroll through the local Christmas market.
Tip: Compare Prague and Budapest side by side if you are unsure which to visit.
Bratislava, Slovakia
Bratislava is a very friendly small city, and it's the capital of Slovakia. The city is just 1 hour away from Vienna.
You can turn this budget-friendly city into your base and explore Vienna and other fantastic destinations in Austria, Hungary, Slovakia, and Czechia on a day trip from Bratislava.
I recommend Bratislava for all those who want to escape crowded cities. I think the destination is suitable for all travelers, including mature travelers, families, solos, and couples.
Ljubljana, Slovenia
Ljubljana is the capital of Slovenia, a small country bordering Austria and Croatia.
It is a real travel gem in Europe, all thanks to the charming ambiance and colorful architecture. Romantic boat trip views, cute cafés, and welcoming locals await you here.
The city is conveniently located, and I highly recommend turning it into your base to visit other incredible places in Slovenia, Austria, and Croatia.
Head to the beaches of Piran, discover the historical city of Ptuj, travel to the dazzling Lake Bled, or hop over to the Austrian Alps—the choice is yours!
Tip: The difference between Slovenia and Slovakia.
Bucharest, Romania
Bucharest is the capital of Romania, an up-and-coming country in Europe, that has just been added to the list of Schengen travel countries in the EU.
The city offers a very different vibe. Here you will encounter neoclassical styles, communist brutalism, medieval orthodox, as well as modern themed architecture.
The capital of Romania is a popular party place, and you can snag a cheap flight from London or Paris to Bucharest. We loved the Therme Bucharest spa just outside the city, which is one of the largest of its kind in Europe.
Lille, France
Lille is a northernmost city in France that borders Belgium. The city is known for its picture-perfect old town and Belgian architecture style.
We loved the food in Lille and that this city wasn't as crowded and well known among tourists. The temperatures are on the cooler side, which is perfect for all those looking to escape hot summer days.
Additionally, Lille is very well positioned, and you should turn it into your base to plan day trips to Paris, Brussels, and London (via the Eurostar).
Graz, Austria
Austria is widely known to be an expensive country, but Graz is the budget-friendly version of Vienna and Salzburg.
Located in the historical Styrian region, where Arnold Schwarzenegger grew up, Graz is the city that retained its old-world charm, which you can visit for a fraction of the price.
I highly recommend organizing day trips to the countryside to visit iconic castles, to eat local food and drink regional wine in a Buschenschank and to soak in the best thermal spas in Austria.
Verona, Italy
Verona is located in one of the most striking corners in northern Italy. The city is just a stone's throw away from Lake Garda and the Italian alps.
We found this city to be more cost-efficient than most popular Italian destinations in the North, and that's why it's on this list.
I recommend getting to Verona by train and turning this romantic city into your base to visit towns at Lake Garda or to plan day trips to Trento or the Italian alps.
Verona is known to have inspired Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, and the Roman arena dominates the flair of this interesting destination.
Augsburg, Germany
Augsburg is probably one of the most underrated cities in Southern Germany. It made the list here because Augsburg is not known as a tourist town, yet the city is chock-full of history, beauty, and budget-friendly accommodations.
The best part Augsburg is just an hour away from Munich and Ulm, and the Romantic road routes through Augsburg.
We love visiting this city all year round, but our favorite visit so far was to the Christmas market, which takes place on the main town square every year. The Christmas market, which is 500 years old, is one of the oldest in Germany.
Mons, Belgium
Mons is a city in Belgium that is most famously known as the town where the Great War (WWI) started and ended. We actually came across Mons accidentally.
Here you get all the charm without the hefty price tag. Free museums, budget-friendly eats, and a compact old town make it an easy win for travelers who don’t want to spend a fortune.
The city is located near Luxembourg, which is one of the most expensive places in Europe and the world. Therefore, if you want to visit the region, turn the picturesque city of Mons into your temporary home.
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