19 Alternative & Cheap Countries in Europe for Summer 2025

Looking for cheap countries in Europe to plan your next summer vacation? Look no further; here’s everything you’ll need to plan your summer holidays in Europe. Summer months are considered a high season in most countries, especially in Europe. Therefore, I like to start planning my travels at least six months or even a year ahead to make my vacation as budget-friendly as possible.

To give you some of the best options, I collaborated with fellow travel bloggers who share their tips on cheap European countries and how to make expensive countries the cheapest destinations in Europe.

In case you want to drive, here are some of the best road trips in Europe, as well as spending perfect two weeks in Europe covering Spain, France, and Italy.

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you buy something through them—at no extra cost to you. It helps support my blog and lets me share real, first-hand travel tips. Learn more

Cheap Countries in Europe for Summer

Albania

Albania is the perfect budget-friendly summer destination in Eastern Europe due to its low prices, stunning beaches, and free and affordable activities. Food and accommodation are very affordable in Albania. There is cheap public transport and car hire; having your own vehicle is a great way to explore more of the country.

Some of the best things to do in Albania are free, including the white sand or pebble beaches lining the coastline along the Adriatic.

Crystal-clear waters stretch out before you, and if you do some exploring, you can find beaches all to yourself. There are accommodation options for every budget, from beachfront hotels to amazing spots for wild camping.

Albania offers amazing hiking for those who love adventure in the north of the country known as the Albanian Alps. When hiking between small villages, you can discover clear waterfalls, a pool, and stunning mountain views. You can find ‘The Blue Eye,’ an impossibly clear deep water spring, and a canyon filled with a natural thermal pool in the south.

If you’re not already sold on Albania, there are also quirky cities and UNESCO-listed old towns to explore. The capital, Tirana, offers all kinds of historical, artistic, and cultural things to do, all surrounded by great cafes and restaurants.

Berat and Gjirokaster are both gorgeous old towns worth a stop to wander their cobblestone streets dreamily.

Recommended by Travels of a Bookpacker

Ukraine

Not advisable with the current unstable situation

Ukraine is another off-the-beaten and one of the cheap European countries for many travelers, no matter the season. With its vast array of landscapes and attractions, the country can easily satisfy the needs of any traveler.

The port city of Odesa is the ‘pearl of the Black Sea,’ making it a perfect cheap European holiday destination. Here, you can enjoy sandy beaches and clear blue waters, admire the Art Nouveau and Baroque architecture, and try their pelmeni or vareniki, the traditional dumplings.

Lviv is a perfect alternative for those who love exploring cities and don’t care much about the beaches. It boasts a friendly atmosphere, colorful buildings, a bustling dining scene, and plenty of things to do for free.

Georgia

Like Ukraine, Georgia is a country full of different landscapes, offering its visitors various activities. Georgia has it all whether you are a city person, a hiker, or love spending your day at the beach.

Still considered off the beaten path for many travelers, Georgia combines gorgeous mountain views, beautiful lakes, tasty food, historic sites, and coast to the Black Sea, making it one of the best cheap countries in Europe to plan your next vacation.

Tbilisi, Georgia’s capital city, is bustling and full of old and new architecture. Here, you can do plenty of things for free or spend around 40-70 USD daily on attractions, museums, and food.

Moreover, accommodation venues are quite budget-friendly. There are plenty of charming Airbnbs priced at around 50 USD per night.

Croatia

It’s a bit of a debatable subject whether or not Croatia is among cheap countries in Europe, and it depends on where you are traveling. In any case, Croatia is a gorgeous summer destination to travel to. The country boasts crystal clear waters, jaw-dropping sunsets, finger-licking seafood, and beautiful architecture.

July and August are the most touristy months, with hundreds of visitors flocking to famous Dubrovnik and its nearby islands. Prices increase during these months, and the accommodation is limited, so book as early as possible. However, don’t let this ruin your plans to visit this amazing country. Avoid super popular cities if you are keen on spending your summer vacation here.

Accommodation is expensive in those popular islands and towns such as Hvar, Korcula, Brac, and Dubrovnik. Croatia has more than 100 islands, and instead of visiting Dalmatia, explore the Istria region in summer.

The coastal and a bit less known city of Zadar could be a great alternative. Here, you can do plenty of things for free, including listening to the Sea Organ and watching one of the most stunning sunsets.

And if you want a quiet city getaway or a relaxing weekend in nature, consider the capital, Zagreb, or Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Hungary

Hungary’s capital is another awesome choice if you are looking for cheap countries in Europe for any holiday because of its low prices, gorgeous architecture, affordable accommodation, and perfect city vibe. The important sights are in the Buda and Pest sides of the city. You can embark on a walk and save money on public transportation.

The city offers various interesting landmarks and activities for you to see and do for free. Explore the famous ruin bars, enjoy panoramic views from the Fisherman’s Bastion, stroll down the Jewish quarter, and admire the gorgeous street art! If you have time, plan some day trips from Budapest to the nearby cities to get to know the country or even explore neighboring countries.

Montenegro 

Montenegro is one of the excellent cheap countries in Europe for summer destinations for its beautiful Adriatic coastline and its many national parks, rivers, and lake. From swimming and sunbathing to hiking and rafting, Montenegro has much to offer those looking for a budget summer holiday destination.  

This often-overlooked jewel of the Balkans is cheaper than its more famous neighbor Croatia but is brimming with picturesque coastal towns such as Kotor and Sveti Stefan. Montenegro has almost 300 kilometers of coastline, sandy beaches, small bays, and pretty fishing villages.  

Inland, Durmitor National Park is a fantastic destination for hiking, especially around the beautiful Crno Jezero or Black Lake! In the nearby town of Zabljak, you can hire bicycles to explore this mountainous region. 

If you are after some more high-octane adventure, it’s possible to go rafting and canyoning in the Tara Gorge, the second deepest in the world after the Grand Canyon! 

While you’re here, remember to try some of the local Balkan specialties, such as burek and cevapcici! 

Recommended by The Trip Goes On 

Northern Cyprus

One of the cheap countries in Europe is Cyprus, and even more affordable is its Northern part, a de facto state governed by Turkey.

Rich in history, Northern Cyprus offers gorgeous castles, the pristine shore of the Mediterranean, tasty cuisine, and warm weather conditions until October.

Prices here are similar to less popular countries in Europe. The currency is the Turkish Lira, and due to its devaluation, makes this part of the country very budget-friendly.

The central city is Kyrenia or Girne in Turkish. It features luxury accommodation options with affordable prices, clean sandy beaches, city attractions to keep you entertained, cobblestone streets, a picture-perfect harbor, and simply beautiful scenery not spoiled by mass tourism.

Don’t miss out on visiting the Shipwreck Museum, which showcases the oldest shipwreck in the world, or exploring the small towns and their sights outside of the city, such as Bellapais Monastery, Buffavento Castle, and St. Hilarion Castle, to name a few.

Slovenia

Slovenia is a lovely choice when you don’t want to blow the budget. The Ljubljanica River runs through the capital Ljubljana, it has a beautiful, calming feel. 

People sit in the many cafes that line the waterfront to drink coffee and take in the sights, all at knockdown prices compared to some of its bit more expensive neighbors like Italy.

There’s plenty to do in the capital, from seeing its picturesque castle to taking a boat trip through the center. It’s easy to wander through on foot, which also helps keep costs down. There are lots outside the capital to enjoy, particularly the gorgeous thermal pools dotted through the country, which are lovely to enjoy at all times of the year. 

If you’re planning a family holiday in Slovenia, then there are plenty of well-priced hotels and resorts across the country. 

Whether eating out or enjoying excursions, Slovenia is remarkably well-priced, even in the capital city or at the seaside, which is fantastic in the summer.

Recommended by Family Hotel Expert

Czech Republic 

The Czech Republic is a beautiful summer destination and relatively cheap, too. Of course, anybody’s first trip to the country must include visiting Prague, the capital.

Prague in summer gets hot, and the tourist season is at its peak. However, if you alternate your days of sightseeing in the Old Town with off-beat experiences such as paddle boats on the Vltava River or hanging out with locals in one of the many parks, you can still have the most enjoyable experience.

But the Czech Republic is not just about Prague. Some other amazing cities include the nearby Pilsen, the second-largest Brno, and the lovely Olomouc in the heart of Moravia. Ostrava, in the Czech Republic’s East, is also worth traveling to.

Czech mountains attract visitors, too, since they’re beautiful and have many well-maintained hiking trails. For example, Bohemian Switzerland or the Jizera mountains are easily accessible from Prague – best for a few days rather than just a day trip.

If you like castles and chateaus, you can find a fair share of those in the Czech Republic. Some sources say there are around 2,000 castles in the country!

Recommended by Travel Geekery

Romania

Romania is one of the cheapest countries in Europe for summer vacation. The climate is hot in the summer, with average high temperatures of about 29C.

The most popular resort in the country is Mamaia on the Black Sea, a district in the historical city of Constanta. However, one of the most spectacular places to visit in Romania in summer is the Danube Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and biosphere, an exciting place with lots of wildlife to see.

Alternatively, the towns and villages of Transylvania are lovely in the summer. This region is great for learning history, seeing famous Romanian castles, or hiking in the Carpathian mountains. Brasov is a particularly delightful spot, a city with Mount Tampa starting at the edge of its city walls. The open mountains are an excellent place for relaxing or a more energetic hike.

Alfresco dining is commonplace throughout Romania, and tables line town squares and streets. The country produces some excellent beer; try a great summer drink, Ursus, or some locally produced wine. 

Recommended by RJOnTour

Serbia

Serbia is the perfect destination for travelers who want to experience Europe but don’t have an unlimited budget. The best part about Serbia is that it’s still largely untouched by mass tourism, so you’ll immerse yourself in a culture unlike any other! You won’t regret visiting this Balkan gem with its friendly people, incredible food, and rich history!

The capital city of Belgrade comes alive in the summer. In the daytime, explore the Old Kalemegdan Fortress, a thousand-year-old complex located in the city center where you can find street performers, restaurants, and some of the best views in Serbia. In the evening, you won’t miss the hipster nightlife in Savamala, where you can find drinks for as little as a Euro. 

If city life isn’t your style, Serbia also has loads of nature to discover in the summer. In Fruška Gora, you can hike between green rolling hills dotted by monasteries and relax at beautiful lakes. You can also kayak in the underrated Tara National Park or rafting on the Drina River. Best of all, no matter where you go in Serbia, none of these incredible activities will break the bank! 

Recommended by Travel Lemming

Moldova

Moldova, sandwiched between Romania and Ukraine, is one of those cheap European countries that you won’t think of at first. 

While it is the poorest country on the continent, it is also the cheapest. The country is safe for tourists; however, like elsewhere, be careful about pickpocketing in the capital or the crowds. 

Base yourself in the capital, Chisinau, as everything is a two-hour drive from there. You can enjoy visiting interesting medieval castles (Bender, Prison Castle, Orhei, Soroca) or religious venues (Catholic or Orthodox). 

If you are a wine lover, Moldova should be on your list. It produces excellent white wines to enjoy each day of your stay here. Here, you can find many introduced varieties, like Chardonnay, and some local varieties, such as Fetească Albă. You can go to many wineries, but Mileștii Mici is the most extensive wine cellar globally, with over 200 kilometers of tunnels. 

Other places worth visiting are Transnistria or the Pridnestrovian Moldavian Republic, a region separated by the Russian population. Don’t forget to try local cuisine like plăcintă bread, sarmale – cabbage leaves stuffed with meat and rice, or mămăligă – polenta with sour cream.

Recommended by Dr Jam Travels

Slovakia

Slovakia is one of the most underrated cheap summer destinations in Europe. Even though it borders two trendy destinations—Hungary and the Czech Republic—Slovakia is often ignored.

Moreover, when people visit, they typically only stop in Bratislava, leaving this hidden gem of a country undiscovered. Aside from its capital city, Slovakia has much to do and see. The summer weather is warm, making it the perfect time for a relaxing road trip around the country.

One of the places to see in Slovakia is the Tatras Mountains, a national treasure. There are plenty of amazing hikes and nature walks to do there, and the views are simply spectacular.

Slovakia is also home to an incredible amount of castles. Bojnice Castle, Orava Castle, and Spis Castle are all just a few hours’ drive from each other and worth the trip. Don’t miss out on all the colorful medieval towns either – Bardejov and Kremnica are two that will take your breath away!

The easiest way to see Slovakia is to rent a car and drive around the country. Some small towns and villages would be hard to reach via trains or buses.

Recommended by The Diary of a Nomad

Turkey

The country of Turkey is one of the best places to go if you are looking for cheap countries in Europe for summer vacation. Surrounded on three sides by water, there are beaches galore to enjoy. Most people stay on the Mediterranean coast, but the Adriatic and the Black Sea coasts have beautiful beaches.

Plenty of resorts cater to foreigners along the Mediterranean coast, and they have kid’s clubs and meals. They are typically much cheaper than you would find in other parts of the Mediterranean, such as France, Italy, or Spain. 

However, if you have a sense of adventure, you can book a hotel on a beach all over the country and just wander out to find your own food. Most hotels on the beach will include beach chairs and umbrellas, so all you have to bring is yourself.

Some famous beaches in Turkey include Fethiye, Antalya, and Bodrum. They’re all charming, but if you go further and find some smaller beaches, they will be much more budget-friendly and not as crowded. One favorite is Kizkalesi, only an hour south of Mersin. Not only does it have great beaches, but it also has two castles to explore. 

Recommended by Reflections Enroute

Malta

One of the smaller islands in the Mediterranean, Malta, is often ignored by Greece, Italy, and others. However, this island packs a punch in architecture, history, weather, and beaches on a budget!

A bus ticket for unlimited rides that costs only a few Euros allows you to travel within the main island of Malta for the whole day!

Since many tourists don’t frequent it, it is comparatively less busy; however, you get great Mediterranean food close to Greek cuisine. However, Malta is popular with its lagoons and is famed as a Game of Thrones location.

The country is mainly divided into three main islands, Malta being the biggest, followed by Gozo and Comino. You can quickly get between the three islands from the Cirkewwa ferry terminal.

The Blue Lagoon on Comino Island has some of the prettiest beaches and marine life for snorkeling. You can attempt numerous aquatic activities here and visit the caves and cliffs.

The easiest way to get to Malta is by flight. However many cruises have a stopover here, but it is advisable to spend at least 4 to 5 days here.

Recommended by Continent Hop   

Kosovo

Kosovo is a fantastic European destination for summer, especially for budget travelers. A backpacker can expect to find dorms for around 10 Euros, and a local hotel remains charmingly cheap. A simple but filling dinner at a restaurant, like a pasta dish, can also be around 10 Euros. 

The capital, Prishtina, is buzzing with students and street art and is the perfect city to explore for hidden gems and friendly locals. Take the budget-friendly bus to Prizren to explore charming red historical streets and walk up Prizren Fortress before checking out the museums to learn about some lesser-known cultural artifacts. This side of European history is just as interesting as elsewhere and is a must for anyone fascinated by the continent’s diverse history. 

Kosovo doesn’t skimp on natural scenery either, with mountain ranges, lakes, and waterfalls taking center stage when you leave the cities behind. The Rugova Mountains are among the best places for hikers to find off-the-beaten-track trails in Europe. 

Kosovo is Europe’s newest country, with a rich but fractured recent history. The tourism industry is not as well established here as in other regions. That said, it feels incredibly safe for solo female backpackers, and the hospitality of the locals is second to none.

Recommended by Cassie the Hag

How to make expensive countries the cheapest destinations in Europe

Austria

Austria might not be the first country you would think of when thinking of cheap European countries for summer, but there are countless possibilities to travel on a budget. You can save money with the so-called summer tickets.

Many vacation regions, such as Zell am See or Schladming, include these in the room rate. With that card, entrance to many attractions, such as lakes, expensive cable cars, and museums, is free.

In Austria, food prices are also not too high, especially for takeaways and fast food. However, restaurant prices are very moderate, especially the lunch menus. In addition, buying cheap, delicious meals like Schnitzel and Salads in the larger supermarkets is possible.

Another reason to plan your summer vacation in Austria is the excellent range of accommodations. Everything is here and caters to every budget, from luxury hotels to rustic pensions with breakfast, backpacker hostels, and cheap camping. 

Additionally, many free events occur in Austria in the summer, including the vast Donauinselfest with stars from all over the world, open-air cinema, classical concerts in the park, the cultural summer in Vienna, and much more, a few of the accessible highlights.

Recommended by PlacesofJuma

Italy 

One of the best summer destinations in Europe is, without a doubt, Italy! Its warm climate, endless coastline, and clear blue water make it the perfect place to spend your summer holiday!

You can expect the most picturesque cities, infinite history, and the most delicious gelato, pizza, and pasta you’ve ever tasted!

Worthwhile places to visit in Italy include, among others, the Amalfi Coast, a picturesque coastline that will leave you speechless; Sicily, the world-famous island of the Italian Mafiosi; Rome, the dreamy capital of Italy, and Venice, where you can’t miss a ride on one of the gondolas navigating through the city.

Remember to discover the history behind Pompeii, climb the Etna Volcano, and shop in Milan!

Before visiting, be aware that you’ll return home with a lot of extra weight because of all the fantastic, authentic, and affordable Italian food you’ll eat! Also, don’t forget your bathing suit, sunglasses, and sunscreen; you’ll need those. It can’t hurt to learn a bit of Italian as well. Although English is spoken in tourist destinations, many Italians still don’t know English!

Recommended by Emma’s Roadmap

Belgium

When travel is involved, choosing a country the size of a peanut is a great advantage. Belgium is about a harmonious fusion of old-world charm, modern culture, and trends, from vintage castles, mansions, museums, and churches to modern architecture, shopping arcades, and amusements.

This heart of Europe is the home of many spectacular places for all vacationers, even if you want to travel on a low budget.

Plenty of the towns in the country retain excellent architectural examples from the Middle Ages. Thinking of Bruges, a major tourist attraction, with its perfectly-preserved medieval streets rimming tranquil canals that lure travelers each year.

Brussels, the country’s capital, is where you can visit the little Manneken-Pis, the Magritte Museum, and the Grand Place, where you can find over 800 local beers, top quality chocolates, real authentic Belgian waffles and have gastronomic experiences.

Antwerp and Ghent are just a short trip away, thanks to an efficient train network, local trams, and buses that help you out.

Save Money by buying a Brussels city card (free entry to 30 museums, plenty of discounts at shops, bars, and tours), staying away from Grand-Place dining, searching hostels out of season, and visiting the country between March and May and September and October.

Recommended by My Bucket List Project