I have always been very passionate about travelling, more so now that I have all the time to myself. Exploring Europe is no longer a dream but a reality! As exciting as it sounds, I also want to discover Europe on a budget. Whilst still enjoying its rich history and culture in a memorable way. Many of Europe’s most beautiful cities are also some of the cheapest if you do your research on affordable destinations.
Check out this guide on how to discover Europe on a budget by exploring hidden gems. Whether you are thinking about your next adventure or it has not yet crossed your mind.
1. Budapest, Hungary: – The Pearl of the Danube
Ideal for: History lovers, spa lovers, and retirees looking for a touch of culture and relaxation.
Budapest always makes the list of cheapest European cities to visit. It is set within some of the grandest views on either side of the stunning Danube River. Where thermal baths meet old-world charm and an amazing food scene at cheap and affordable prices.
With its peaceful, idyllic ambience, Budapest provides one of the most affordable locations for retirees. Begin your adventure by taking a walk along the Danube Promenade, soaking up the impressive façade juxtaposing the Parliament Building and the Buda Castle. End the day at a thermal bath in one of Budapest’s best baths, such as Széchenyi or Gellért.
You can feast on local delicacies such as goulash or chimney cakes at a restaurant for next to nothing. With a great public transport system at a low price and very walkable, the city is also full of attractions. At the same time, offering discounted fees for travelers over 60.
2. Lisbon, Portugal: The Budget Seaside Escape
Best for: History and sunshine, budget accommodation by the sea.
When it comes to discovering Europe on a budget, several criteria must be met to make a holiday destination great (such as inexpensive, charming, and a whole lot of postcard-esque coastlines). Luckily, Lisbon has all this… and more!
For retirees interested in seeking pristine beaches, historical sites, and great food, Lisbon is a sublime retirement travel destination that won’t make too much of a dent on your bank balance.
The old-world charm of Lisbon, with its cobbled streets, colourful buildings, and vintage trams, helps maintain a relaxed atmosphere, making it ideal for a laid-back holiday experience. Don´t miss visiting the iconic landmarks Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, which can be enjoyed by paying very low entry fees.
Lisbon is budget-friendly for food, too. For a few euros, you will be able to get some bacalhau (salted codfish) or pastel de nata, the most famous egg tart in Portugal. With many restaurants throughout the city serving fresh catches of the day, Lisbon truly shines for those discovering Europe on a budget.
3. Kraków, Poland: History and Culture Without the Hefty Price Tag
Ideal for: History buffs, retirees looking for cultural enrichment, and those on a tight travel budget.
Kraków is a place where history and culture come together in such a way that no one visiting here ever leaves unsatisfied. The Polish city is brimming with history, from its Gothic architecture to its sombre reminders of World War II, but remains surprisingly budget-friendly.
Kraków, no one would leave off this list, is the beautiful old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wawel Castle and Cathedral, the medieval main square, and the Jewish quarter of Kazimierz. A tour of Auschwitz-Birkenau is a somber but important experience for those interested in World War II history.
Kraków is also inexpensive for food, with hearty Polish staples such as pierogi (dumplings) and bigos (hunter’s stew) served at milk bars for just a couple of euros.
4. Seville, Spain: Southern Charm on a Budget
Ideal for: Culture lovers, foodies and retirees seeking warm hospitality in a very historic place.
Seville, the capital of Andalusia, Spain, is a lively and colourful city renowned for its Flamenco music and Moorish palaces. It serves as the epicentre of world gastronomy, with Opera and Gigantic rivers, all at very budget-friendly rates. Seville: A perfect place for retirees looking to wind down and enjoy life at a slower pace with plenty of culture.
Visit the Seville Cathedral, the largest Gothic cathedral in Europe, and go up to the Tower Giralda from where you will have a great view of Seville. Stroll the halls of the beautiful Alcázar of Seville, an ornate royal palace with lush gardens and tile walls, then enjoy its lively plazas and sunny orange-tree-lined streets.
Seville is also a great city for foodies, and tapas are an affordable way to try a variety of local dishes. You can get tapas for free or a very low cost in many of the bars that you go to if you order a drink.
5. Discovering Europe on a Budget: Sofia, Bulgaria
Ideal for: Retirees looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination rich in history, culture, and nature.
If you are interested in discovering Europe on a budget, Sofia is Europe’s best-kept secret. The Bulgarian capital offers a mix of Roman ruins and Orthodox churches, along with Communist-era buildings, all for a price well below the European average.
The most famous sightseeing spots in Sofia, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and the ancient Roman Serdica complex, are free or very inexpensive. The city has many verdant parks too to enjoy picnics, or just a quiet walk, like Borisova Gradina Park.
Eating out in Sofia is extremely affordable, with meals at local restaurants rarely costing more than 10 euros. Traditional Bulgarian cuisine is difficult to resist, and dinner will cost you as little as a couple of euros for banitsa (cheese-filled pastry) or kavarma (slow-cooked stew).
The following Budget tips can also make your money go far:
- Research destinations that align with your budget. Check reviews, ratings, and recommendations from other retirees.
- Avoid the crowds and the high season by visiting in the off-season (from late autumn to early spring and avoid school holidays.
- Use the public transport system to explore the city and its surroundings whenever possible.
- Take advantage of the numerous free walking tours available throughout the city.
- Eat like a local by trying traditional dishes at local markets
Get Ready to Discover and Explore European Hidden Gems!
Where will be your next stop in Europe? Which destination takes your fancy?
If you are looking for more ideas to get inspired when planning your dream holiday, don’t miss our previous article, 9 Perfect Holiday Ideas to Consider on Your Retirement. It is packed with countless travel options, including great beach getaways, exhilarating road trips, and more, intended to benefit retirees who wish to explore endless possibilities in their golden years.
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Share your favourite European hidden gems in the comments below. Let us inspire each other to explore and discover new destinations, culture and history!
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