Europe on $50 a Day: 7 Affordable Cities You’ll Fall in Love With

Believe that Europe is beyond your financial reach? Reconsider that idea.

While it's true that cities like Paris, London, and Zurich can quickly empty your bank account, there are many enchanting spots on the continent where $50 each day allows you to eat well, discover new sights, and even treat yourself a bit . Whether you're backpacking, working from anywhere, or simply aiming to fulfill your travel desires without exceeding your budget—these seven cities demonstrate that traveling on a budget can still provide a sense of luxury.

So, get your passport ready and travel light—Europe awaits, and it's more budget-friendly than you realize.

🇧🇬 1. Sofia, Bulgaria

Reasons to fall in love: cheap cuisine, amazing Orthodox churches, and a mix of contemporary and ancient atmosphere.

One of Europe's hidden jewels is Sofia. You can find a nice guesthouse or hostel for less than $20, savor tasty Bulgarian food for $5–7, and explore breathtaking sites like the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral or the ancient ruins below the city all while spending small.

Tip: Use the metro for less than $1 each journey and sign up for a complimentary walking tour. For a natural escape, climb Vitosha Mountain, just outside the city.

🇭🇺 2. Budapest, Hungary

Why you’ll fall in love: Thermal baths, historic bridges, and a nightlife scene that never sleeps.

For around $15–25 a night, you can sleep in a stylish hostel or cozy Airbnb. A hearty goulash meal will only set you back $6–8, and admission to a world-famous bath like Széchenyi is under $20.

Pro tip: Visit ruin bars—these eclectic watering holes are built inside old buildings and full of charm (and cheap drinks!).

🇵🇱 3. Kraków, Poland

Why you’ll fall in love: Cobblestone streets, medieval castles, and some of Europe’s best pierogi.

Kraków is a fairy-tale city with budget-traveler pricing. Hostels start around $12–18, a generous lunch can cost under $5, and many museums offer free admission on certain days.

Pro tip: Don’t miss Wawel Castle and the Jewish Quarter, and be sure to catch the dragon statue that breathes real fire (yes, really!).

🇲🇪 4. Kotor, Montenegro

Why you’ll fall in love: Dramatic mountain views, medieval charm, and quiet Adriatic bliss.

Nestled on the edge of a fjord-like bay, Kotor is what you get when you mix Game of Thrones landscapes with Balkans affordability. Dorm beds start at $15, seafood meals cost around $10, and the hike to the San Giovanni Fortress is free—just bring good shoes and your camera.

Pro tip: Visit in shoulder season (May or September) for fewer crowds and cheaper stays.

🇷🇴 5. Timișoara, Romania

Why you’ll fall in love: Pastel buildings, artsy cafes, and an up-and-coming creative scene.

Often overshadowed by Bucharest, Timișoara is a vibrant city with Bohemian flair and plenty of green spaces. You can find boutique hostels for $18, street food like covrigi (Romanian pretzels) for less than a dollar, and enjoy free concerts in the park during summer.

Pro tip: It’s set to be a future European Capital of Culture—get there before the crowds do.

🇦🇱 6. Tirana, Albania

Reasons to fall in love: friendly residents, unusual museums, and bright buildings.

Albania's capital provides many unexpected pleasures, from art galleries in ancient bunkers to chic cafes with Turkish coffee. Hostels cost from $10 to $15; a big meal with beverages usually costs under $10. Public transit is about 30 cents; for nightlife, you cannot miss the Blloku area.

Useful tip: Start with Tirana to see neighboring beaches like Durrës or the Albanian Riviera.

🇬🇪 7. Tbilisi, Georgia

Reasons you’ll adore it: Vineyards, towering peaks, friendly locals, and a vibrant blend of traditions.

Tbilisi gives you the essence of Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia combined—without breaking the bank . You can find a guesthouse for just $15–20, indulge in khinkali (dumplings) and khachapuri (cheese bread) for $3–5, and ride the cable car for less than $1.

Helpful hint: Georgia provides free e-visas for numerous nations and is very safe for those traveling alone.

✈️ How to Make $50 a Day Work

Though it demands some planning, seeing Europe for $50 a day is definitely feasible. My approach to make it happen:

For a range of choices, mix hostels, inexpensive guesthouses, and try Couchsurfing.

Dine on street cuisine, buy at grocery stores, and once treat yourself to local delicacies.

Participate in free walking tours, go on self guided hikes, visit public museums, and savor local celebrations.

Make deliberate decisions rather than to miss out by utilizing buses, rideshare services, and low cost airlines such as Ryanair or Wizz Air.

Choosing value over luxury; concentrating on experiences rather than material goods.

💬 Final Thoughts: Budget Isn’t Boring

Exploring new places on a budget doesn’t mean you have to miss out on great experiences. In reality, it often allows you to discover more, engage meaningfully, and experience destinations like a local rather than just a tourist.

These seven cities taught me that having an adventure doesn’t need to cost a lot . All it takes is a sense of wonder, adaptability, and comfortable walking shoes.

So, when you hear someone claim that Europe is too pricey, just grin and begin to pack your bags.