10 Cheapest European Countries To Visit From The USA: 2024

Traveling to Europe doesn’t have to be expensive. With careful planning and the right destination choices, you can enjoy a memorable European adventure without breaking the bank. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the 10 cheapest European countries to visit from the USA in 2024.

We’ll highlight budget travel tips and affordable European destinations and compare travel packages from top travel companies. Whether you’re a solo traveller, a family on a budget, or a group of friends looking for an affordable getaway, these countries offer a wealth of experiences at a fraction of the cost.

Why Choose Europe for Budget Travel?

Europe is a diverse continent, offering a rich tapestry of cultures, landscapes, and experiences. It’s also surprisingly accessible from the USA, with many affordable flight options and budget-friendly accommodations.

In 2024, favourable exchange rates and a variety of low-cost travel options will make Europe an ideal destination for budget-conscious travellers. From historical landmarks and picturesque towns to vibrant cities and stunning natural scenery, Europe has something to offer every type of traveller.

Top 10 Cheapest European Countries To Visit

1. Poland

Poland is one of the cheapest European countries to visit, offering a wealth of historical sites, vibrant cities, and stunning landscapes. This budget-friendly destination ensures that travellers can enjoy rich cultural experiences without overspending.

Poland’s mix of Gothic architecture, medieval castles, and modern urban areas provides a unique travel experience. Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Warsaw, the charming old town of Krakow, or the beautiful Baltic coast in Gdansk, Poland offers a variety of affordable options for every type of traveller.

Affordable Cities to Visit

• Warsaw is Poland’s capital, known for its historical Old Town and modern skyscrapers. Explore the Royal Castle, Łazienki Park, and the Warsaw Uprising Museum.
• Krakow: A city rich in history, with affordable attractions like Wawel Castle and the historic market square. Don’t miss the Jewish Quarter and the Schindler’s Factory Museum.
• Gdansk: A coastal city with beautiful architecture and a rich maritime history. Visit the European Solidarity Center and the beautiful St. Mary’s Church.

Cost-Effective Activities and Attractions

• Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum: A poignant visit that’s free of charge.
• Wieliczka Salt Mine: Affordable guided tours are available.
• Bialowieza Forest: A UNESCO World Heritage site, home to the European bison.

Estimated Costs

• Accommodation: $30-$70 per night for budget hotels.
• Food: $10-$20 per meal.
• Local Transportation: $1-$2 per trip.
• Flights from the USA: $500-$700 round trip.

Travel Packages Comparison

• Expedia: Offers packages starting at $600, including flights and 3-star hotel stays.
• TripAdvisor: Customizable packages with options for budget accommodations.
• Lonely Planet: Package deals with guided tours of major attractions.

2. Hungary

Hungary is one of the most affordable European destinations, renowned for its rich history, thermal baths, and vibrant capital, Budapest. This country provides a mix of cultural experiences and budget-friendly travel options.

Whether you’re soaking in one of Budapest’s famous thermal baths, exploring the charming streets of Debrecen, or enjoying the vibrant cultural scene in Pécs, Hungary offers a diverse range of activities for budget-conscious travellers. Its affordable accommodations, low-cost public transportation, and delicious local cuisine make Hungary a top choice for budget travellers.

Budget-Friendly Destinations

• Budapest: Known for its thermal baths, historic sites, and affordable dining options. Highlights include Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion, and the Széchenyi Thermal Bath.
• Debrecen: Hungary’s second-largest city, offering affordable attractions like the Great Church and Nagyerdő Park.
• Pécs: A city with a Mediterranean vibe, known for its Roman ruins and vibrant cultural scene.

Low-Cost Entertainment and Dining Options

• Thermal Baths: Affordable entry fees to famous baths like Széchenyi and Gellért.
• Ruin Bars: Unique, budget-friendly nightlife experiences.
• Hungarian Street Food: Try langos and chimney cake from local vendors.

Estimated Costs

• Accommodation: $25-$60 per night for budget hotels.
• Food: $10-$15 per meal.
• Local Transportation: $1-$2 per trip.
• Flights from the USA: $500-$750 round trip.

Travel Packages Comparison

• Kayak: Offers competitive prices on flight and hotel packages.
• Priceline: Discounts are available on longer stays.
• Viator: Guided tours with bundled savings on major attractions.

3. Romania

Romania is among the cheapest European countries, offering a mix of medieval history, scenic landscapes, and vibrant culture, all at a low cost. It’s an excellent destination for travellers seeking affordable adventures.

From the bustling streets of Bucharest to the medieval charm of Brasov and the cultural richness of Sibiu, Romania provides a wealth of experiences for budget travellers. Explore the legendary castles of Transylvania, hike through the Carpathian Mountains, or discover the biodiversity of the Danube Delta, all while keeping your expenses in check.

Key Cities for Budget Travelers

• Bucharest: The capital city, known for its affordable accommodations and rich history. Explore the Palace of the Parliament, the Old Town, and the Village Museum.
• Brasov: A charming city with medieval architecture and proximity to Dracula’s Castle.
• Sibiu: Known for its well-preserved old town and cultural festivals.

Inexpensive Cultural and Historical Sites

• Palace of the Parliament: One of the largest buildings in the world, with affordable tours.
• Transylvania: Explore Dracula’s Castle and other historic sites.
• Danube Delta: A UNESCO World Heritage site, perfect for nature enthusiasts.

Estimated Costs

• Accommodation: $20-$50 per night for budget hotels.
• Food: $8-$15 per meal.
• Local Transportation: $1 per trip.
• Flights from the USA: $600-$800 round trip.

Travel Packages Comparison

• Orbitz: Package deals starting at $700, including flights and budget hotels.
• Travelocity: Customizable itineraries with budget options.
• GetYourGuide: Discounts on tours and entry fees for major attractions.

4. Bulgaria

Bulgaria is a budget travel paradise with its beautiful Black Sea coast, mountainous landscapes, and historical cities, making it one of the cheapest European countries to explore. Whether you’re relaxing on the beaches of Varna, exploring the ancient ruins of Plovdiv, or hiking in the scenic Rila Mountains, Bulgaria offers a diverse range of activities for budget-conscious travellers.

Its low cost of living, affordable accommodations, and delicious local cuisine make it an ideal destination for those looking to experience Europe without spending a fortune.

Best Value Destinations

• Sofia: The capital city, offering affordable accommodation and free walking tours. Visit Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Vitosha Boulevard, and Boyana Church.
• Plovdiv: Known for its Roman theatre and vibrant arts scene.
• Varna: A coastal city with beautiful beaches and affordable seafood.

Affordable Outdoor Adventures and Local Cuisine

• Rila Monastery: Free to visit, with stunning architecture and history.
• Local Food: Enjoy traditional Bulgarian dishes at low-cost eateries.
• Seven Rila Lakes: A popular hiking destination with breathtaking views.

Estimated Costs

• Accommodation: $20-$45 per night for budget hotels.
• Food: $10-$20 per meal.
• Local Transportation: $0.50-$1 per trip.
• Flights from the USA: $500-$750 round trip.

Travel Packages Comparison

• Expedia: Competitive prices on packages with flexible dates.
• Skyscanner: Options for budget-friendly accommodations.
• Thomas Cook: Customizable travel packages with affordable options.

5. Czech Republic

The Czech Republic, with its fairy-tale castles, picturesque towns, and affordable living costs, is one of the best budget travel Europe destinations. From the charming streets of Prague to the quaint towns of Cesky Krumlov and Brno, the Czech Republic offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty at a fraction of the cost of other European countries.

Enjoy world-class beer, hearty cuisine, and stunning architecture without breaking the bank, making it a top choice for travellers looking for a cheap European getaway.

Budget Travel Tips for Prague and Beyond

• Prague: Known for its stunning architecture and affordable beer. Must-visit sites include Charles Bridge, Prague Castle, and Old Town Square.
• Cesky Krumlov: A charming town with budget-friendly lodging and dining.
• Brno: The second-largest city, known for its modernist architecture and lively cultural scene.

Cost-Saving Measures for Tourists

• Public Transport: Efficient and cheap, making it easy to explore.
• Free Attractions: Many historical sites and gardens have no entry fees.
• Affordable Dining: Enjoy hearty Czech cuisine at local pubs and restaurants.

Estimated Costs

• Accommodation: $30-$60 per night for budget hotels.
• Food: $10-$20 per meal.
• Local Transportation: $1
• $2 per trip.
• Flights from the USA: $600-$850 round trip.

Travel Packages Comparison

• Viator: Offers package tours to major attractions.
• TripAdvisor: Customizable packages with budget accommodations.
• Booking.com: Competitive prices on flights and lodging.

6. Portugal

Portugal, with its stunning beaches, rich history, and vibrant cities, is one of the cheapest European countries to visit, offering a wealth of experiences at affordable prices. Whether you’re exploring the historical sites of Lisbon, relaxing on the beaches of the Algarve, or enjoying the vibrant nightlife in Porto, Portugal provides a variety of options for budget-conscious travellers.

Its low cost of living, affordable accommodations, and delicious local cuisine make Portugal an ideal destination for those looking to experience Europe on a budget.

Top Budget-Friendly Cities and Regions

• Lisbon: The capital city, known for its historic neighbourhoods and affordable attractions. Highlights include Belem Tower, Jeronimos Monastery, and the Alfama district.
• Porto: Famous for its port wine and scenic views. Visit Ribeira, Livraria Lello, and the Dom Luis I Bridge.
• Algarve: A coastal region with stunning beaches and affordable accommodations.

Cost-Effective Activities and Dining

• Beach Days: Many beaches in the Algarve are free to access.
• Local Food: Enjoy affordable meals at traditional Portuguese restaurants.
• Wine Tasting: Budget-friendly tours and tastings in the Douro Valley.

Estimated Costs

• Accommodation: $25-$60 per night for budget hotels.
• Food: $10-$20 per meal.
• Local Transportation: $1-$3 per trip.
• Flights from the USA: $600-$850 round trip.

Travel Packages Comparison

• Expedia: Package deals including flights and accommodations.
• TripAdvisor: Customizable packages with budget-friendly options.
• Lonely Planet: Package tours with guided experiences.

7. Greece

Greece, with its stunning islands, ancient ruins, and vibrant culture, is an affordable European destination offering a wealth of experiences for budget travellers. From the historic sites of Athens to the beautiful beaches of Crete and the picturesque villages of Santorini, Greece provides a mix of cultural and natural attractions that won’t break the bank.

Enjoy delicious Greek cuisine, explore ancient temples, and relax on stunning beaches, all while keeping your travel costs low, making Greece one of the cheapest European countries to visit.

Budget-Friendly Islands and Cities

• Athens: Explore ancient ruins and affordable markets. Highlights include the Acropolis, Plaka, and the National Archaeological Museum.
• Crete: Known for its beautiful beaches and affordable accommodations.
• Santorini: Famous for its sunsets and white-washed buildings, with budget options available.

Affordable Activities and Local Cuisine

• Historical Sites: Many sites in Athens are free or have low entry fees.
• Local Food: Enjoy traditional Greek dishes at budget-friendly tavernas.
• Island Hopping: Use ferries for affordable travel between islands.

Estimated Costs

• Accommodation: $30-$70 per night for budget hotels.
• Food: $15-$25 per meal.
• Local Transportation: $2-$3 per trip.
• Flights from the USA: $700-$900 round trip.

Travel Packages Comparison

• Kayak: Budget-friendly package deals available.
• Travelocity: Customizable itineraries with affordable options.
• Expedia: All-inclusive packages for island hopping.

8. Slovakia

Slovakia offers stunning natural landscapes, charming towns, and a rich cultural heritage at a fraction of the cost of more popular European destinations. This country provides a mix of outdoor adventures, historical sites, and vibrant cities that are perfect for budget-conscious travellers.

Whether you’re exploring the beautiful capital city of Bratislava, hiking in the High Tatras, or discovering the cultural richness of Košice, Slovakia offers a variety of affordable experiences. Its low cost of living, budget-friendly accommodations, and delicious local cuisine make Slovakia an ideal destination for those looking to explore Europe on a budget.

Affordable Cities and Towns

• Bratislava: The capital city with affordable attractions and a charming old town. Visit Bratislava Castle, St. Martin’s Cathedral, and the UFO Observation Deck.
• Kosice: Known for its well-preserved historical centre and vibrant cultural scene.
• High Tatras: A paradise for hikers and nature lovers with budget-friendly lodging.

Low-Cost Activities and Dining

• Hiking: Many trails in the High Tatras are free to access.
• Local Food: Enjoy hearty Slovak cuisine at low-cost restaurants.
• Castles and Museums: Affordable entry fees for most sites.

Estimated Costs

• Accommodation: $25-$50 per night for budget hotels.
• Food: $10-$20 per meal.
• Local Transportation: $1-$2 per trip.
• Flights from the USA: $600-$800 round trip.

Travel Packages Comparison

• Booking.com: Competitive prices on flights and accommodations.
• Viator: Discounts on tours and activities.
• GetYourGuide: Package deals for cultural and historical tours.

9. Croatia

Croatia, with its stunning coastline, historical cities, and beautiful islands, is one of the cheapest European countries to visit, offering a wealth of experiences at affordable prices. This country provides a mix of beautiful beaches, ancient ruins, and vibrant cities that cater to budget-conscious travellers.

Whether you’re exploring the historic old town of Dubrovnik, enjoying the vibrant cultural scene in Zagreb, or relaxing on the beaches of Split, Croatia offers a variety of affordable options for every traveller. Its low cost of living, budget-friendly accommodations, and delicious local cuisine make Croatia an ideal destination for those looking to experience Europe on a budget.

Best Budget-Friendly Destinations

• Dubrovnik: Known for its historic old town and stunning views. Affordable accommodations are available outside the city centre.
• Split: A coastal city with beautiful beaches and Roman ruins.
• Zagreb: The capital city with affordable lodging and a vibrant cultural scene.

Low-Cost Activities and Dining

• Beaches: Many public beaches are free to access.
• Local Food: Enjoy fresh seafood and traditional dishes at reasonable prices.
• National Parks: Affordable entry fees for stunning natural landscapes.

Estimated Costs

• Accommodation: $30-$70 per night for budget hotels.
• Food: $15-$25 per meal.
• Local Transportation: $1-$3 per trip.
• Flights from the USA: $700-$900 round trip.

Travel Packages Comparison

• Expedia: Package deals with flights and accommodations.
• Travelocity: Customizable travel itineraries.
• Kayak: Budget-friendly packages available.

10. Serbia

Serbia offers a rich history, vibrant nightlife, and beautiful landscapes at incredibly low prices, making it one of the most affordable European destinations in 2024. This country provides a mix of cultural experiences, historical sites, and outdoor adventures that are perfect for budget-conscious travellers.

Whether you’re exploring the vibrant capital city of Belgrade, discovering the historical richness of Novi Sad, or enjoying the scenic beauty of the Danube River, Serbia offers a variety of affordable experiences. Its low cost of living, budget-friendly accommodations, and delicious local cuisine make Serbia an ideal destination for those looking to explore Europe on a budget.

Budget-Friendly Cities

• Belgrade: The capital city with vibrant nightlife and historical sites. Visit Kalemegdan Fortress, Skadarlija, and the Nikola Tesla Museum.
• Novi Sad: Known for its lively cultural scene and beautiful Petrovaradin Fortress.
• Niš: A city with a rich history and affordable accommodations.

Low-Cost Activities and Dining

• Festivals: Many cultural and music festivals are free or low-cost.
• Local Food: Enjoy hearty Serbian dishes at budget-friendly restaurants.
• Historical Sites: Affordable entry fees for most attractions.

Estimated Costs

• Accommodation: $20-$50 per night for budget hotels.
• Food: $10-$20 per meal.
• Local Transportation: $1 per trip.
• Flights from the USA: $600-$800 round trip.

Travel Packages Comparison

• Expedia: Affordable package deals available.
• Viator: Discounts on tours and activities.
• Booking.com: Competitive prices on flights and accommodations.

Tips for Budget Travel in Europe

• Plan Ahead: Book flights and accommodations in advance to get the best deals.
• Travel Off-Season: Avoid peak tourist seasons to save on costs.
• Use Public Transportation: Buses, trams, and trains are often cheaper than taxis.
• Eat Local: Enjoy local cuisine at street markets and budget-friendly restaurants.
• Free Attractions: Take advantage of free walking tours and public parks.

Conclusion: Cheapest European countries to visit

Exploring the cheapest European countries from the USA doesn’t mean sacrificing quality or experiences. With careful planning and a bit of research, you can enjoy an unforgettable European adventure without overspending. From the historic charm of Poland and Hungary to the stunning landscapes of Bulgaria and Romania, these destinations offer a wealth of experiences for budget-conscious travellers. So pack your bags, plan your itinerary, and get ready to explore Europe on a budget in 2024!