A weekend in Europe doesn't have to be expensive. In two or three days, you can explore beautiful architecture, sample the local cuisine and see the main attractions if you choose the right destination and plan your budget in advance. To stay connected while traveling, you can choose the right eSIM plan in advance, for example, through eSIM Plus.
We have collected 10 European cities that are great for an affordable and action-packed weekend.
Beautiful Europe on a Budget: 10 Cities to Visit for a Weekend
1. Krakow
Surprisingly, Krakow, one of the most beautiful and least expensive cities in Europe, is still underrated by tourists. Krakow was the capital of Poland until the late 16th century, but even after losing that status, it has remained one of the country's main cultural and academic centers. Fortunately, unlike Warsaw, the city was largely spared during World War II, so many historic buildings have been preserved (including thirty-nine churches alone), the medieval Jagiellonian University and the vast 13th-century Royal Castle.
2. Budapest
Although the Hungarian capital has become dramatically more popular in recent years, prices remain relatively low. If you choose a hotel outside the city center and use public transportation, you can enjoy views of the Danube and classical architecture, while staying within a modest budget. Be sure to visit one of Budapest's famous thermal baths, cross the river over the Chain Bridge and explore Buda Castle and Fisherman's Bastion.
3. Lisbon
Even by European standards, Lisbon and its surroundings are packed with attractions — castles, palaces and basilicas, and the relatively high cost of flights to the Portuguese capital is more than offset by affordable hotels, restaurants, and shops. If you plan to use public transportation extensively around the city or take the funiculars (including the famous Santa Justa Lift), be sure to get a Viva Viagem travel card, which will help you save money.
4. Prague
Prague has won over tourists from all over the world thanks to two things: affordable Czech pubs and a beautiful historic center. Prague rivals the major Western European capitals in terms of beauty and cultural heritage, and a trip here will cost you much less than a trip to Paris or Amsterdam. The only drawback is that Prague gets very crowded during the high season, so visit during the less busy months, as the city is beautiful year-round.
5. Istanbul
One of the oldest cities in the world, Istanbul is considered a must-visit destination for any history lover. Mosques, bazaars and stunning views of the Bosphorus are sure to impress even the most seasoned travelers. Today, Istanbul is known not only for its rich cultural heritage but also for its low prices, although, unfortunately, they come with a trade-off: a lower level of safety.
6. Athens
Athens is an ideal city for a weekend getaway — there are enough attractions here to fill two leisurely days of sightseeing. You should set aside a full day to explore the Acropolis and see the Parthenon, and you will need at least half a day to visit the impressive National Archaeological Museum. If you still have time, visit the Monastiraki neighborhood to visit the mosque and browse the market. Despite the fact that Athens is one of the more expensive cities on our list, by European standards it is still a very affordable destination, especially if you visit in the off-season, particularly in late autumn or winter.
7. Split
Split is a less touristy version of Dubrovnik: with the same red roofs, white walls, and views of the bay. The city is much cheaper and lies in Dalmatia, which is known for its excellent beaches, so you can combine a visit to Split with a nearby beach getaway. Split, of course, does not have Dubrovnik's imposing city walls, but it is home to the ancient Roman palace of Emperor Diocletian, which is considered the best-preserved Roman-era palace in the world.
8. Berlin
Although Berlin is the capital of one of the wealthiest countries in the eurozone, prices here remain relatively low. Of course, compared to cities in Eastern Europe, the cost of a night at a hotel or hostel in Berlin is not so attractive, but thanks to the city's popularity and the large number of flights, flights to Berlin can often be found at reasonable prices (especially if you book a few months in advance).
9. Riga
If you haven't been to Riga yet, try to remedy that unfortunate omission as soon as possible — since switching to the euro, prices in the city have been steadily rising. Riga's historic center perfectly embodies the classic European city — outdoor cafés, charming squares surrounded by historic buildings with tiled roofs, and cobblestone sidewalks.
10. Ljubljana
Gradually, from a place few people could find on a map, Ljubljana is becoming one of Europe's most popular cities. It has everything you need for a classic European weekend getaway: a beautiful historic center, good restaurants, and architectural landmarks, including a large, well-preserved medieval castle. Visit the Slovenian capital before it starts drawing large crowds of tourists and hotel prices rise to the European average.
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