10 European travel destinations offering the best bang for your buck

Discover 10 European destinations where your money stretches furthest with affordable cities, beaches, and travel hotspots

Europe offers irresistible travel experiences, but not every corner of the continent delivers equal value.

Rising costs have made budget-conscious planning essential. The savvy traveler now looks beyond classic hotspots to regions where euros or pounds go further, particularly in Eastern Europe and less-touristed areas.

Europe has cities where every meal, stay, and experience delivers more. From historic streets to sun-soaked beaches, these destinations let travelers enjoy it all without overspending. High value, low spend means your money works hardest where culture, scenery, and affordability meet.

The result: a European vacation that feels luxurious without the luxury price tag.

From thermal baths and medieval streets to coastal escapes, here are 10 destinations where your money stretches the furthest.

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Portugal

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Portugal combines sunny coastlines, historic cities, and affordable living costs. Visitors can enjoy Lisbon or Porto without stretching their budget. Travel guides like Hays Travel highlight it as one of Europe’s top value destinations.

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Bulgaria

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Bulgaria offers historic character and scenic Black Sea resorts at surprisingly low prices. The Bulgarian Lev makes accommodations and dining budget-friendly. Hays Travel lists Bulgaria as a destination where travelers get strong value for their money.

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Hungary (Budapest)

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Budapest blends stunning architecture, historic thermal baths, and affordable everyday costs. The city’s exchange rate favors international travelers. Hays Travel recommends Budapest for those seeking luxury experiences on a budget.

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Czech Republic (Prague)

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Prague’s charming old town and lively cultural scene come at a lower cost than many Western European cities. Visitors can enjoy sightseeing, dining, and nightlife without overspending. Hays Travel highlights Prague for budget-conscious travelers.

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Poland (Kraków / Warsaw)

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Kraków and Warsaw offer historic beauty, and affordable accommodations. Food, transport, and attractions are inexpensive compared with Western Europe. Both CommBank and U.S. News recognize Poland as a top-value European destination.

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Greece (Crete)

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Crete offers island beaches, local cuisine, and beautiful sites at lower costs than Santorini or Mykonos. Travelers can enjoy the Mediterranean lifestyle affordably. CommBank highlights Crete as a budget-friendly Greek getaway.

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Turkey (Istanbul)

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Istanbul blends beauty, historic sites, and lively markets. Daily expenses for food and transport are inexpensive. CommBank lists Istanbul as a high-value cultural destination.

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Spain (Galicia)

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Galicia provides coastal scenery, traditional cuisine, and fewer tourists than Spain’s popular regions. Hotels and dining are more affordable than Barcelona or Madrid. CommBank recommends it as a budget-friendly Spanish destination.

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United Kingdom (Cornwall, England)

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Cornwall offers beaches, fishing villages, and countryside at lower costs than London or Edinburgh. Visitors can enjoy scenic walks and local markets without high prices. CommBank identifies Cornwall as an affordable UK escape.

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Lithuania (Vilnius)

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Vilnius combines medieval streets, vibrant culture, and low accommodation costs. The city ranks as one of Europe’s cheapest capitals. Tripadvisor cites Vilnius as a favorite for travelers seeking affordability.