5 Budget-friendly Cities in Europe to Visit in Your 20s

Our guide to the most budget-friendly cities in Europe that prove you don’t need deep pockets to live out your travel dreams in 2025. 

Who says you need deep pockets to travel in style? You’ve probably daydreamed of spending endless days holidaying Europe. With its historical architecture, distinct cuisines, and jaw-dropping landscapes, there’s much to see and do all around. But with the usual hotspots getting painfully overpriced and swamped with tourists, it may be time to look at other options around the continent. Despite the hikes in price tags, Europe still has plenty of budget-friendly cities that will satisfy your travel bug without straining your wallet. Below, we tell you all about our favourite destinations that are good for your soul and bank account. So pack your bags, grab your passport, and book those flights. 

1. Lisbon, Portugal 

Kicking off the list is Lisbon, the darling Portuguese capital by the sea. With its sun-soaked hills, pastel-hued buildings, and mouthwatering seafood, Lisbon oozes European charm at every turn. This vibrant city strikes the perfect balance of culture, cuisine, and coastline—and you can get this all without burning a hole in your wallet. Whether you’re biting into a flaky, caramelised pastéis de nata or watching yellow trams wind through steep cobbled streets, Lisbon feels like a sunlit daydream wrapped in azulejos (blue-and-white ceramic tiles).

Places to visit: Belém Tower, Elevador de Santa Justa, Tram 28

Restaurants to try: Cervejaria Ramiro, Time Out Market, Pastéis de Belém

2. Budapest, Hungary

Venture a little further east and Budapest awaits. This Hungarian destination is where old-world grandeur meets budget-friendly bliss. During the day, roam the fairytale towers of Fisherman’s Bastion and soak in panoramic views from Buda Castle that will have your camera working overtime. As the sun sets, cruise down the Danube at twilight, soaking in the shimmering silhouette of the Hungarian Parliament Building while sipping wine. No trip to Budapest is complete without a rejuvenating dip in the iconic Széchenyi Thermal Baths. When hunger strikes, dive into a hearty bowl of goulash, Hungary’s national comfort food, packed with warmth and flavour.

Places to visit: Fisherman’s Bastion, Széchenyi Thermal Baths, Shoes on the Danube Bank

Restaurants to try: Central Food Market, Pipa Étterem, Molnár’s Kürtőskalács

3. Naples, Italy 

If you’re chasing la dolce vita but also want to take care of your bank account, Naples is your Italian dream come true. Forget the price tags of Milan or Rome, this southern stunner serves all the history, flavour, and chaos you crave, minus the splurge. Think morning cappuccinos in hidden piazzas, charred margherita pizza slices that cost less than a euro, and impulsive day trips to neighbouring cities. We love Pompeii’s ancient ruins or the sparkling shores of Salerno. Whether you’re admiring street art, cruising to the coast for seaside serenity, or people-watching with a glass of wine in hand, Naples is your playground.

Places to visit: Piazza del Plebiscito, Spaccanapoli, Teatro di San Carlo

Restaurants to try: La Locanda Gesù Vecchio, L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele, Trattoria Don Vincenzo

4. Kraków, Poland 

If we were to name a lesser-known European gem with main-character energy, Kraków would be it. This Polish sweetheart is everything you’d want for a solo adventure. Picture flower-strewn streets in spring, romantic horse-drawn carriages rolling through cobblestone streets, and a warm, welcoming energy that feels like a hug from the city itself. Begin your morning strolling through the enchanting streets of Kraków Old Town, where centuries-old history meets whimsy. In the afternoon, pop into Rynek Główny, one of Europe’s largest medieval squares, where cafés buzz with life by St. Mary’s Basilica. With all it has to offer, this city proves that you don’t need deep pockets to experience a getaway steeped in stories 

Places to visit: Main Market Square, St. Mary’s Basilica, Wawel Royal Castle

Restaurants to try: Restauracja Sukiennice, Pod Wawelem Kompania Kuflowa, Smak

5. Corfu, Greece

Calling all beach babes! Corfu is your answer if your soul craves salty air, turquoise waters, and glistening sands without the Santorini price tag. This lush Greek island is home to postcard-worthy beaches and pastel-coloured villages that feel like a Mediterranean daydream. While the sun is up, lounge on the crystal-clear coves of Paleokastritsa, dive into the Blue Lagoon’s shimmering waves, or wander the winding alleyways of Old Town. As dusk falls, grab a bottle of local wine and head to a quiet cove to catch the golden hour light up the Ionian Sea.

Places to visit: Palaiokastritsa, The Old Town, Kassiopi

Restaurants to try: Klimataria, Rex Restaurant, Avli Restaurant

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