You’d be hard-pressed to find somebody who doesn’t have at least one dream about life in Europe. Whether it’s embracing la vie en rose by breakfasting at one of the best cafes in Paris, or cathartically celebrating the Bard by watching one of his timeless tragedies in London’s West End, it’s undeniable that the continent is home to an ever-growing list of experiences that inspires many a traveler to save up. But believe it or not, there are actually cheap places to visit in Europe that don’t skimp on cultural and culinary value. Whether you’re looking for a warm beach to melt away your worries, snowcapped mountains, or medieval cobblestone streets, we’ve done the research and asked Condé Nast Traveler‘s Top Travel Specialists on how to plan fulfilling trips to Europe that are also affordable and high-value. For bustling cities on the coast, cozy small towns, and everything in between, read on for the best cheap places to visit in Europe for 2025.
Tips for how to visit Europe on a budget
For an expert opinion on how to visit Europe on a budget, we tapped a few of our Top Travel Specialists: Sally Guillaume, owner and director of Undiscovered Mountains France; Petros G. Zissimos, managing director of Hellenic Holidays; and Graham Carter, the co-founder of luxury travel agency, Unforgettable Travel Company.
While peak season across countries can vary, you can travel around—rather than during—popular times for school breaks and summer vacations. “Avoid traveling between the peak season months of June to mid-September,” Carter says. “Aim to go in early May or late September into October.” By traveling during these months, you might even be able to find better rates for airfare and discounted third and fourth nights at hotels.
And when it comes to choosing your destination, popular doesn’t always mean better. Paris may first spring to mind when planning for a vacation to France, but, “By just going slightly out of your way and driving a little bit further you will find the hidden gems of France away from the tourist hot spots,” says Guillaume, where travelers immerse themselves in bountiful flora and fauna, delicious cuisine, and charming port towns without the sticker shock and frenzied crowds.