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When we say ‘Europe’, affordable isn’t usually the first word we think of. An irresistible mix of culture, history and landscape, the continent can be a money-snatching fiend at the best of times. But, if you go at the right time and avoid all the big places (those pricey cities), you’ll find that Europe is more enjoyable than ever. So whip out your credit card, pack your suitcase and bookmark this link for affordable places to travel in Europe.
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Sounds like a place from a fairy-tale book, right? But it’s real! Tapas, cheap beer, magnificent cities and countryside for days – this glorious part of southern Spain really does have it all. With the likes of Seville, Jerez, Córdoba, Granada and Málaga under its name, you needn’t bother exploring any other European country because it’s all here. And if you really want to continue your budget adventure, hop on the ferry to Morocco. Yes, really. It’s that close by. If not, magical histories, exquisite museums, and the loveliest people are waiting to greet you in true Spanish style – a true siesta.
- Basic daily budget: €40
- Cost for a small beer can: €1.70–2.50
- Hostel/budget hotel: €16/€35–80
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The Lakes of Macedonia
Lake Ohrid really is the jewel in Macedonia‘s sparkling crown. Aside from snapping the beguiling lake to death, waltz through the frescoed medieval churches, uncover ancient Roman amphitheatres and climb epic tundras to get the best views from a crumbling fortress. Or, simply just swim, dive or sail the waters by boat. With cheap private rooms to rent and lots of really lovely glamping spots, the area is perfect for travellers on a budget to kick back and relax.
- Basic daily budget: €20
- Cost for a wine bottle: €2.50 (gasp!)
- Hostel/budget hotel: €10/€25
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Krakow, Poland
Krakow Market Square, PolandKrakow continues yet again as Europe's best travel bargain. The low prices have drawn in larger numbers of Europeans for weekend breaks, and there are many great and cheap hostels, bars, and restaurants to keep prices low while you are enjoying the beautiful old city and the local culture. Put this one on your list before demand forces prices up like in Prague and Budapest.
- Daily budget: €30
- Cost for a Vodka shot: €1
- Hostel/budget hotel: €12/€35
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Porto, Portugal
Porto has long been a hot destination for wine lovers — it's the go-to place to find the best of that sweet, tasty port wine. But this city by the sea has more to offer than vino. Porto is an attractive European mini-metropolis on Portugal's north-western coast where travellers can get their fill of culture and the outdoors. Travellers can visit the city's wealth of museums, admire its varied architecture and, of course, hit the beach.
- Basic daily budget: €45–50
- Cost of a wine bottle: €3.50
- Hostel/budget hotel: €20/€45
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The Peloponnese, Greece
There’s more to Greece than Athens and Santorini. The Peloponnese really is having its moment. Fine white, sandy beaches (much quieter than the main islands), ancient sights like Epidaurus and Olympia, medieval villages and Byzantine towns await for those that want to go beyond what you see in the travel magazines. And what’s more, it’s cheaper than the rest!
- Basic daily budget: €30
- Cost for Ouzo: €3
- Hostel/budget hotel: €20/€30
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The Albania Coast
Albania is one of the cheapest countries in Europe to explore, and luckily, has escaped the hands of the millions of tourists exploring other parts of the continent. If you fancy the perfect beach break, well, this is it. On Albania’s southern Ionian coast, expect lots of mammoth mountains, azure seas and white, white sand.Basic daily budget: €25Cost for a bottle of red wine: €6Hostel/budget hotel: €10/€30
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Salzburg, Austria
A classic tourist city, Salzburg is at the base of the Alps and it has one of the most impressive Old Towns anywhere in Europe. As the birthplace of Mozart, Salzburg is a key hub for classical concerts and festivals, but for non-Europeans it's even more famous as the setting of the Sound of Music. The bus tours dedicated to that movie are more fun and far more scenic than you might expect.
- Basic daily budget: €41
- Cost for a bottle of red wine/beer: €7/€3
- Hostel: €25
Other places that offer affordable travel in Europe!
Zagreb, Croatia – Fairly cheap by European standards and especially compared to Italy next door, Zagreb is a bargain and a worthwhile pause on the way to one of the beach towns or nearby Plitvice National Park.
Tenerife, Spain - Prices tend to be similar to or a bit lower than mainland Spain, which makes it a relative bargain.
Luxembourg City, Luxembourg - The location is stunning and the city's history is interesting, plus the food and drink culture is what you would expect for this part of Europe, meaning there are a lot of great choices
Dubrovnik, Croatia – Known now for Game of Thrones, Dubrovnik has one of the most amazing walled historic centres in the worldAll costs mentioned are per person, daily budget includes intercity travel & food and in euros.