7 Cheap but Exciting City Breaks in Europe for 2025

This post is about cheap but exciting city breaks in Europe. It contains affiliate links which means I may earn a small commission should you purchase/book anything through one of my links at no extra cost to you. This way you’re contributing to keeping this website online.

Looking for a budget-friendly city break in Europe? We’ve rounded up 7 cheap yet amazing cities perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer trip. Whether you’re looking for vibrant nightlife, historical landmarks, or cultural charm, these destinations are affordable without sacrificing fun or adventure.

1. Budapest, Hungary

• Why go?: Known as the Paris of the East, Budapest offers stunning architecture, thermal baths, and a rich cultural scene without the hefty price tag.
• Things to do: Visit Buda Castle, soak in the historic Széchenyi Baths, and take a sunset cruise along the Danube River.
• Where to stay: You can find excellent hotels for low prices such as Hotel Oktogon Haggenmacher or, if you’re looking to save on the streets and splurge on the sheets, the opulent Hotel Páris Udvar. When I went to this beautiful city I was looking for a healthy few days so I stayed at Hotel President which I loved! The breakfast buffet was incredible and they had a pool, sauna, massages and all that.
• Where to eat: For local fare, head to Mazel Tov for Middle Eastern dishes or the iconic Great Market Hall for Hungarian street food.
• Bonus tip: sign up for a free walking tour of Budapest and don’t forget to tip your guide at the end! If you’re lucky, maybe yours will come with an extra companion like my guide did…

2. Kraków, Poland

• Why go?: A charming medieval city with rich history, lively nightlife, and some of the most affordable prices in Europe.
• Things to do: Explore the historic Wawel Castle, stroll through the vibrant Main Market Square and take a day trip to Auschwitz.
• Where to stay: Stay in the heart of the main square at Betmanowska for a lively experience or go for the boutique charm of Aparthotel Stare Miasto.
• Where to eat: I LOVED stumbling upon the Tradycyjne Polski Smaki (it literally translates as “traditional Polish flavours”!). I felt like we were crashing a family gathering at a Polish grandma’s house. We shared the cabbage rolls which were a lot bigger than expected and, obviously, more pierogi. In 3 days of Kraków, we had pierogi about 5 times at least and there were so many great restaurants and cafes, we didn’t have time to try them all. We did go to Pierwszy Stopień which, unbeknownst to us, was ranking at #1 on TripAdvisor and the goose pierogis I had were absolutely scrumptious! As a food market lover, I must also mention Judah Food Market which wasn’t out of this world but it was pretty decent and provided us with indulgent chimney cakes (which you can also get around town).
• Bonus tip: sign up for a free walking tour and don’t forget to tip your guide at the end!

3. Lisbon, Portugal

• Why go?: Lisbon offers a blend of culture, beautiful views and amazing food, all at wallet-friendly prices. Frankly, that’s changed a bit since the “Great Influx of Digital Nomads” of the Covid era but it’s still pretty good compared to the likes of London and Amsterdam!
• Things to do: Ride the famous Tram 28, visit Belém Tower and explore the vibrant Alfama district.
• Where to stay: Budget stays like the most beautiful hostel I’ve ever stayed in, The Independente Hostel & Suites, stylish hotels like Torel Palace for a fancier stay or a the mid-range Pestana Lisboa Vintage Suites.
• Where to eat: Enjoy traditional pastéis de nata at Pastéis de Belém and dine affordably on seafood at Time Out Market. I’ll also recommend the wonderful Capim Limão for a slightly more upscale dining experience and delicious comfort food.

4. Prague, Czech Republic

• Why go?: A fairytale city with Gothic architecture, affordable beer and rich history.
• Things to do: Explore Prague Castle, stroll along Charles Bridge and relax in Old Town Square.
• Where to stay: Try Hostel Orange for a budget-friendly stay or Miss Sophie’s Charles Bridge for a beautiful stay right in the middle of the tourist attractions.
• Where to eat: Enjoy a Czech meal at Lokal or Špejle, a traditional beer hall such as Vinohradský Pivovar (in business since 1893!!) or grab a meat-free meal admiring the painted starry sky of Lehká Hlava.

5. Valencia, Spain

• Why go?: Less crowded than Barcelona, Valencia offers sunny beaches, great food and a mix of history and modern architecture. Besides, if you’re looking for a place where you’re likely not to have your trip rained on, Valencia has about 300 days of sunshine a year!
• Things to do: Explore the City of Arts and Sciences, relax on Malvarrosa Beach and visit the Central Market.
• Where to stay: Stay at Hôme Youth Hostel for an affordable and social experience or go for a boutique option at Petit Palace Ruzafa the 4* L&H Gran Via. Want a 5* option? Head to the newly-opened Only YOU
• Where to eat: Don’t miss trying paella in its birthplace town and you can find some at the famous Casa Carmela (booking advised) or grab a bocadillo (sandwich) at Central Bar while at the Central Market.

6. Sofia, Bulgaria

• Why go?: Sofia offers a vibrant blend of Eastern European culture, stunning churches, and very low costs for travelers.
• Things to do: Visit Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, wander through Vitosha Boulevard, and explore Boyana Church.
• Where to stay: The boutique-style Oborishte 63 or a cheaper but still excellent option, Rosslyn Central Park.
• Where to eat: Head to Hadjidraganovite Izbi for Bulgarian food, Shtastlivetsa for delicious meals in a beautiful setting or go for a quick, cheap bite at Fabrika Duga.

7. Bratislava, Slovakia

• Why go?: A charming and underrated city near Vienna, Bratislava is perfect for a quick and cheap weekend break.
• Things to do: Walk around Bratislava Castle, explore the Old Town and relax by the Danube. And if you’ve got a spare day or two, you can hop on a train and be in Vienna in just an hour!
• Where to stay: Stay in the lively Patio Hostel or opt for the mid-range and highly rated Marrol’s Boutique Hotel or an apartment like Central Apartmany
• Where to eat: Grab a bite at Bratislava Flagship or cheap but great local food at Slovak Pub.

Why These Cities are Perfect for a Cheap City Break

All of these cities offer a mix of culture, history, and fun, with budget-friendly accommodation and food options that make them perfect for a weekend break or longer stay. Whether you’re after a quick getaway or a budget-friendly adventure, you can enjoy the best Europe has to offer without breaking the bank.

Have you been to any of these? Let me know in the comments if you have any questions or recommendations!

And if you’re looking for last minute autumnal travel destinations in Europe, I invite you to check out this list we put together of places with the most breathtaking sceneries.