Close your eyes and just imagine wandering through sunlit streets where every corner tells a story, tasting local delights in bustling markets, and finding your own secret spot on a golden beach, all without worrying about your bank balance. Europe’s charm isn’t just in its famous landmarks, but in the little moments that cost little to nothing.
This summer, let your journey be about more than just ticking off sights. Let it be about uncovering hidden gems, embracing new cultures, and making memories that don’t come with a hefty price tag. Ready to explore Europe’s best cheap summer escapes? Your adventure starts here.
To enjoy a budget-friendly summer holiday in Europe, consider these practical strategies:
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Hungary is a fantastic choice for budget travellers seeking a mix of cultural richness, natural beauty, and relaxation. While Budapest often steals the spotlight with its stunning architecture and vibrant nightlife, the country’s regions beyond the capital offer equally memorable experiences at a fraction of the cost.
Outside Budapest, you’ll find cosy guesthouses, family-run pensions, and budget hotels where a double room can cost as little as €20–40 per night. Traditional Hungarian cuisine is hearty and affordable. Try dishes like goulash, lángos (fried dough with toppings), and chimney cake (kürtőskalács) from street vendors or local eateries without breaking the bank.
Often called the “Hungarian Sea,” Lake Balaton is Central Europe’s largest freshwater lake and a beloved summer destination. The northern shore is known for its vineyards and historic towns like Tihany, while the southern shore offers sandy beaches and lively resorts such as Siófok. Water sports, cycling routes, and wine tasting tours make it a versatile spot for all tastes.
Hungary boasts over 1,000 natural springs, and its thermal baths are legendary. The town of Hévíz is home to the largest natural thermal lake in Europe, famed for its medicinal waters. Budapest’s iconic baths like Széchenyi and Gellért offer day passes, often between €30 and €40, with discounts available on weekdays or off-peak hours.
Beyond the spas and lake, explore the UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the historic town of Eger with its baroque buildings and castle, or the wine region of Tokaj, famous for its sweet dessert wines. Hungary’s rich folk traditions are alive in villages like Hollókő, where you can witness traditional crafts and festivals.
The Hungarian language (Magyar) is a linguistic isolate, meaning it’s unrelated to most European languages. It’s known for its complex grammar and vocabulary, making it one of the hardest languages to learn in Europe. But don’t let that deter you from greeting locals with a friendly “Szia!” (hello).
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Poland is a treasure trove for travellers seeking a rich cultural experience without the hefty price tag. From the cobbled streets of medieval cities to the sandy shores of the Baltic Sea, Poland offers a diverse range of attractions that combine history, vibrant local life, and natural beauty.
Budget travellers can find hostel dorm beds for around €8–€15 per night, while private rooms in guesthouses or budget hotels typically range from €20 to €40. Traditional Polish meals such as pierogi (dumplings), bigos (hunter’s stew), and zapiekanka (Polish-style baguette pizza) can be enjoyed for just a few euros at local milk bars and street vendors.
Kraków’s medieval Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a must-see, with its stunning Market Square and Wawel Castle. Warsaw’s rebuilt Old Town offers a fascinating mix of history and modern life. Many museums offer free entry on the first Sunday of each month or on special occasions, so plan accordingly to save on entrance fees.
The Tri-City area of Gdańsk, Gdynia, and Sopot boasts beautiful sandy beaches and lively promenades. Sopot is known for its long wooden pier and vibrant nightlife, while Gdańsk offers historic architecture and maritime charm. Accommodation along the coast is affordable, especially outside peak summer weeks.
Poland’s extensive and inexpensive public transport system includes trains, buses, and trams. Special train tickets like the Weekend Ticket allow unlimited travel on certain lines for a low price, ideal for exploring multiple cities. For city travel, daily public transport passes cost around €3.
Poland has a strong tradition of “milk bars” (bar mleczny), which are inexpensive cafeterias originally established during the communist era, offering authentic Polish dishes at very low prices.
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Portugal is a top pick for budget-conscious travellers seeking sun-drenched beaches, historic cities, delicious food, and vibrant culture. While Lisbon and Porto are popular, exploring regions beyond these hubs unveils even more affordable experiences.
Outside Lisbon and Porto, charming guesthouses and budget hotels offer double rooms from approximately €30 to €50 per night. Hostels offer even cheaper options, with dorm beds typically costing between €15 and €25 in major cities. Traditional Portuguese dishes like fresh seafood, bifana sandwiches, and the famous pastel de nata custard tart are widely available at reasonable prices in local eateries and markets.
The Algarve region is renowned for its stunning beaches and dramatic cliffs. While resorts like Lagos and Albufeira can be pricier, quieter towns such as Tavira or Sagres offer excellent value. Alternatively, the Alentejo coastline provides pristine beaches and serene landscapes at a fraction of the Algarve prices.
Porto is famous for its port wine cellars, where you can take tours and tastings. Across the Douro River, Vila Nova de Gaia offers numerous cellars, many of which provide tours from €10 to €15. Beyond Porto, the Douro Valley boasts stunning vineyards and offers wine-tasting experiences at local quintas (wine estates).
Explore Portugal's UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the Jerónimos Monastery in Lisbon or the historic centre of Évora. Many smaller towns, like Óbidos or Guimarães, offer well-preserved castles and charming streets at no cost to wander. In Lisbon, a ride on Tram 28 costs around €3 and provides an affordable tour of the city’s historic Alfama district.
Portugal is the world's largest cork producer, and you can find cork products ranging from handbags to umbrellas in local shops.
Quirk: When ordering coffee, ask for a “bica” in Lisbon and a “cimbalino” in Porto to blend in with the locals. If you want a strong espresso, that is.
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Turkey offers an extraordinary blend of East and West, where ancient history meets vibrant modern life at affordable prices. From bustling bazaars and majestic mosques to turquoise beaches and fairy-tale landscapes, Turkey is a budget traveller’s dream destination.
Across Turkey, budget travellers can find guesthouses, hostels, and small hotels offering double rooms for around €20 to €40 per night. Street food is delicious and cheap, with favourites like simit (sesame bread rings), gözleme (stuffed flatbread), and kebabs available for just a few euros. Local restaurants serve hearty meals at very reasonable prices, often under €10.
Turkey’s Mediterranean and Aegean coasts, known as the Turquoise Coast, boast stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and charming towns like Antalya, Fethiye, and Bodrum. These areas offer a range of accommodation from budget pensions to affordable beachside hotels. Many beaches are public and free to access, making sunbathing and swimming highly economical.
Istanbul is a cultural treasure trove with iconic sites such as Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar. Entrance fees are generally affordable, and many mosques are free to visit. Cappadocia’s surreal landscapes, with their fairy chimneys and cave dwellings, are best explored by hiking or affordable local tours. Don’t miss a sunrise hot air balloon ride for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, though it’s pricier.
Turkey’s extensive bus network connects cities and towns affordably. Trams, metros, and dolmuş (shared minibuses) are cheap and convenient in cities. Domestic flights are also reasonably priced, especially when booked in advance.
Turkish tea is a cultural staple, served in tulip-shaped glasses throughout the day. Refusing a cup is considered impolite, so be prepared to enjoy many tea breaks.
Quirk: The Whirling Dervishes, a mystical Sufi dance, can be witnessed in cultural performances across Turkey, offering a fascinating glimpse into the country’s spiritual heritage.
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Bulgaria is an excellent destination for budget travellers looking for a mix of rich history, beautiful coastline, and lively cultural experiences, all at very affordable prices. From ancient ruins to sunny beaches, Bulgaria offers a diverse and wallet-friendly summer holiday.
Across Bulgaria, you can find budget hotels, guesthouses, and hostels with double rooms typically costing between €20 and €40 per night. Local taverns, known as “mehanas,” serve traditional Bulgarian dishes like banitsa (cheese pastry), shopska salad, and grilled meats at very reasonable prices, often under €10 per meal.
Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast is famous for its sunny beaches and vibrant resorts such as Sunny Beach and Golden Sands. While these areas offer lively nightlife, quieter towns like Sozopol and Nessebar provide a more relaxed atmosphere at lower prices. Many beaches are public and free to access, making sunbathing and swimming cost-effective.
Explore Bulgaria’s UNESCO World Heritage sites like the ancient city of Nessebar, the Rila Monastery, and the Thracian tombs near Kazanlak. Sofia, the capital, combines Roman ruins with modern culture, and Plovdiv, Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited city, boasts a charming old town and Roman amphitheatre.
Bulgaria has an extensive and affordable bus and train network connecting major cities and tourist spots. Public transport within cities is cheap and reliable, with daily passes costing just a few euros.
Bulgaria is one of the world’s largest producers of rose oil, which is used in perfumes globally. The Rose Festival in the Valley of Roses, held every June, is a colourful celebration of this heritage.
Quirk: In Bulgaria, nodding your head means “no” and shaking it means “yes,” which can be confusing for visitors but is a charming cultural twist.
Croatia is an increasingly popular destination that still offers excellent value for budget travellers, especially beyond the well-known hotspots. With its crystal-clear Adriatic Sea, charming medieval towns, and beautiful islands, Croatia combines natural beauty and rich history in an affordable package.
Outside of Dubrovnik, where prices can be higher, you’ll find budget-friendly guesthouses, hostels, and family-run hotels with double rooms typically costing between €25 and €50 per night. Local taverns (konobas) serve traditional dishes like fresh seafood, peka (meat and vegetables slow-cooked under a bell), and black risotto at reasonable prices, often under €10 per meal.
The Dalmatian coast is famous for its stunning beaches and clear waters. Towns like Split and Zadar offer a mix of historic charm and lively waterfronts at more affordable prices than Dubrovnik. The island of Rab is known for its rare sandy beaches, while Hvar is popular but pricier. Ferries and local boats connect the islands affordably, making island hopping accessible for budget travellers.
Croatia’s UNESCO-listed Plitvice Lakes National Park features breathtaking turquoise lakes and waterfalls, with entrance fees that are reasonable if you visit early or late in the day. The ancient city of Trogir, with its well-preserved medieval architecture, and the Roman amphitheatre in Pula are must-sees for history lovers.
Public buses and ferries are the most economical ways to explore Croatia’s coast and islands. Renting a scooter or bicycle is also popular in smaller towns. Train travel is limited but improving, mainly connecting Zagreb with coastal cities.
The necktie, or “cravat,” originated in Croatia during the 17th century and is now a symbol of Croatian heritage worldwide.
Quirk: In Zadar, you can experience the Sea Organ, an architectural sound art installation that plays music powered by the movement of the sea waves. It’s a truly unique and free attraction.
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Spain remains one of Europe’s most popular and affordable summer holiday destinations, offering a vibrant mix of bustling cities, stunning coastlines, and delicious cuisine. From the Mediterranean shores of Costa Blanca and Costa del Sol to the cultural hubs of Barcelona and Madrid, Spain caters to all tastes and budgets.
Budget travellers can find hostels and guesthouses with dorm beds starting around €15 to €25 per night, while private rooms and budget hotels typically range from €40 to €70 per night, depending on location and season. Tapas bars and local markets offer tasty, inexpensive meals. Classic dishes like paella, tortilla española, and jamón ibérico can be enjoyed for just a few euros.
Spain’s Mediterranean and Atlantic coasts boast miles of sandy beaches. Popular but affordable beach destinations include Alicante, Valencia, and the Costa Brava. Many beaches are public and free, perfect for relaxing under the sun. The Balearic Islands, such as Mallorca and Menorca, offer beautiful beaches and budget-friendly resorts, especially outside peak season.
Explore Barcelona’s iconic Gaudí architecture, Madrid’s world-class museums, and Seville’s flamenco culture. Many museums and attractions offer free or discounted entry on certain days, making cultural exploration accessible on a budget.
Spain’s extensive and efficient train and bus networks make it easy and affordable to travel between cities and coastal towns. Booking tickets in advance can help save money.
Spain is home to the world’s oldest restaurant, Sobrino de Botín in Madrid, operating since 1725. It’s a testament to the country’s rich culinary heritage.
Quirk: The traditional Spanish siesta, a midday rest period, is still observed in many towns, influencing opening hours and the pace of life.
Greece is a timeless summer favourite that does not have to break the bank. Outside of well-known hotspots like Santorini and Mykonos, there are many affordable destinations across the mainland and islands. From sun-soaked beaches to ancient ruins and fresh Mediterranean cuisine, Greece offers a rich experience for travellers looking to make the most of their summer without overspending.
On less touristy islands such as Naxos, Paros or Syros, and in mainland towns like Nafplio, Thessaloniki or Parga, travellers can find cosy guesthouses, pensions and hostels for as little as €25 to €50 per night during summer. Traditional tavernas serve generous portions of Greek dishes like souvlaki, moussaka and grilled fish for around €7 to €12. For a quick and cheap meal, bakeries and street food stalls offer options such as gyros or cheese pies for under €5.
With thousands of islands scattered across the Aegean and Ionian seas, Greece is a paradise for beach lovers. Islands such as Milos, Lefkada and Ikaria are known for their stunning coastline and laid-back atmosphere, often with fewer crowds and lower prices. Many beaches are free to access, and ferry tickets between islands can be affordable, especially when booked in advance or during off-peak times.
Greece is full of historical treasures. From the Acropolis in Athens to the medieval old town of Rhodes, visitors can explore centuries of culture and architecture. Entrance fees for archaeological sites usually range from €6 to €12, and EU residents under 25 often receive free or discounted entry. Many small museums, churches and ruins can be visited without charge.
Beyond the coast, Greece offers stunning natural landscapes. The Vikos Gorge in the north is one of the deepest in the world, and trails on islands such as Crete, Andros and Corfu offer scenic routes through mountains, villages and coastlines. Mount Olympus, the legendary home of the gods, is a popular hiking destination. Most trails and parks are free to explore.
Mainland travel is easy with the KTEL intercity bus network, which connects most cities and towns affordably. Ferries serve as the main transport option between islands, and early booking can help keep prices low. On smaller islands, scooters, bicycles or local buses are commonly used and cost-effective.
In Greece, it is common to drink cold coffee even in winter. The famous frappé, invented in Thessaloniki in 1957, is a national favourite and a symbol of Greek café culture.
Travelling around Europe in the summer can be an amazing experience, full of adventure, new discoveries, and, with the right planning, surprisingly affordable. From exploring vibrant cities to relaxing on scenic coastlines, making the most of your trip often comes down to smart budgeting and easy access to your money.
For budget-conscious travellers, managing currency exchange and international transactions efficiently is crucial. Grey offers a practical solution by providing multi-currency accounts that allow you to hold, send, and receive money in various currencies, including EUR, USD, and GBP.
Open a free account with Grey today to get started and make your next European holiday affordable and unforgettable.
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