1. Romania
Romania is packed with stunning mountain-scapes, enchanting castles and traditional villages. This Southeastern European country has tons of fun activities which will keep you engaged and entertained the whole journey. Romania is a treasure for nature and history enthusiasts with its breathtakingly beautiful landscapes filled with rolling hills and lush forests, followed by impressive mediaeval castles and fortresses with their own unique stories. Also, from adventurous hiking in Transylvania to exploring the traditional mediaeval towns and the must-see Dracula’s Castle, Romania has a fun tour ready for you!
If you don’t want to spend a fortune on commuting, Romania is your answer! With its cheap public transportation and delectable food options, you can explore this country without hampering your wallet. Witness some of Europe's most spectacular scenery, from the Carpathian Mountains and the Danube Delta. Mesmerising outdoor adventures that'll leave you breathless, cultural gems that'll immerse you in local heritage and history that'll make your jaw drop! Romania has it all!
2. Portugal
If you are a beach person, Portugal’s breathtaking Algarve coastline will serve as a shore paradise with its golden cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque bays. Another thrilling activity that attracts tourists to this small yet beautiful country is surfing and Algarve’s exciting Golf resorts. From Lisbon's historical landmarks to Porto's old-world charm, exploring this country's many cities and towns is definitely valuable. Visiting castles and cathedrals and strolling through picturesque villages, the options are never-ending.
For thrill lovers, a variety of adventurous activities, such as hiking trails in the Serra da Estrela mountains or kayaking along the Douro River, is always a favoured choice. Plus, with its low costs and affordable accommodation options, Portugal is an excellent choice for budget travellers. With an abundance of attractions and experiences at your fingertips, you can explore this country without worrying too much about wallet-wrenching expenses.
3. Bulgaria
A wonderful and multifaceted attraction in Southeastern Europe, Bulgaria has amazing touring options. Relish in the beautiful Black Sea shore and curvy mountain terrains that take you through scenic viewpoints. Bulgaria is also drowned in various archaeological sites and is very rich in its age-old heritage. Touring these places will give you a good taste of its exuberant history. While at it, you should never miss out on a gem like Rila National Park, which offers breathtaking alpine scenery, crystal-clear lakes, and opportunities for hiking, skiing, and wildlife spotting.
For every other traveller, a must-do in Bulgaria is to savour its cuisine; it lets you take a peek into its rich culture. Also, don’t forget to take a long stroll through the cobbled streets of Sofia if you want to bag some of the Bulgarian fashion. Sofia is highly praised for its Viennese-style architecture, unusual bridges, and jaw-dropping Vitosha Mountain. All these tourist attractions still remain cost-effective and scenic.
4. Croatia
Dreaming of a destination that combines stunning beauty with budget-friendly adventures? Look no further than Croatia. A hidden gem on the Adriatic coast, Croatia is a delightful surprise for those seeking an unforgettable experience without breaking the bank. How do you feel when you picture yourself standing on breathtaking beaches with crystal-clear waters that glisten under the warm Mediterranean sun, refreshing right?
Croatian cuisine is definitely a treat for your taste buds. Be sure to explore local markets there and immerse yourself in lip-smacking street food like Cevapi - grilled sausages and a perfectly baked slice of homemade pizza. Croatia is heaven with its abundance of fresh and affordable seafood delicacies as well. If you think commuting to Croatia might be difficult, then let me stop you right there. You don’t even have to worry so much about this. The bus network is extensive and affordable, connecting major cities, towns, and even remote areas. It's a great way to travel comfortably and soak in the scenic views along the way.
5. Albania
Tucked away in the heart of the Balkans, Albania is a captivating country and is an absolute delight for those seeking an incredible experience without being a spendthrift. Albania is a sheer beauty! Just imagine yourself running on a pristine beach with the cold wind running through your hair or simply standing on top of a rugged mountain while enjoying the picturesque view in front of your eyes. Beautiful, right? Albania is just that.
Accommodations are also not an issue here. There are plenty of affordable options available, from cosy guesthouses to family-run inns, offering comfortable stays close to the beach. Savouring the flavours of traditional dishes like byrek - A savoury pastry filled with cheese, tave kosi - baked lamb with yoghurt, and qofte - mouthwatering meatballs is a must try on your to-do list.
Conclusion
Backpacking to Europe has always been on the bucket list of many. With all these historical, scenic, yet pocket-friendly cities to visit in Europe, you can’t help but book air tickets. So start packing your bags and get going to these popular destinations! Enjoy your summer this year, traveling the world, with these cheap places to visit in Europe. Don’t forget to click some memorable pictures on your way!
