European Travel Guide: Top European Cities to Visit on the Cheap

Many Americans, who travel to Europe, especially major cities like London or Paris are amazed at just how expensive things can be. If they head to Scandinavia, they are even more surprised. With the declining value of the dollar against the Pound and Euro, a European vacation can be a stretch for many Americans. That does not have to be the case. With careful planning, Europe can be affordable regardless of where in Europe you choose to travel. Here is my list of the top ten European cities to visit on the cheap.

Vilnius, Lithuania

The capital city of Lithuania is not only affordable it is delightful. When I lived in Oslo, a Lithuanian friend arranged a weekend trip to Vilnius. Four star hotel accommodations for two nights, meals, opera tickets and a visit to one of Vilnius's world famous spas cost less than $500 per person. Sadly, with an infant at home I did not make the trip. Vilnius has many art museums, lovely affordable restaurants and many beautiful churches. Airfare from many European cities is affordable as well.

Prague, Czech Republic

Ask anyone who has travelled to this vibrant Eastern European city to rank his or her favorite travel destinations and Prague is sure to be near the top of the list. There are many affordable restaurants and several clean and affordable hostels, including the favorite, The Czech Inn. While not quite as affordable as it was when the Soviet Union first broke apart, Prague remains one of the more affordable European cities.

Bucharest, Romania

I have several friends from this Eastern European country, which remains one of Europe's poorest countries. A visit to Romania is like taking a step back in time. The capital of Bucharest is easily accessible by air or train. There are many affordable restaurants and hotels tend to be affordable as well.

Budapest, Hungary

Eastern European countries tend to be cheaper when it comes to food or hotels. Budapest is a delightful and inexpensive European city to visit. Try staying at the centrally located, Home Made Hostel. Enjoy the world renowned Budapest Zoo and one of the many inexpensive Turkish spas this Hungarian capital city has to offer.

Munich, Germany

I am a huge fan of this Southern German city and I am not the only one. Munich is repeatedly ranked one of the best cities in the world to live. The train line is wonderful. There are many inexpensive hotels (see my review of the Art Hotel Munich) and hostels. The main train station, known to Germans as the Hauptbahnhof, even offers very clean bathrooms with showers, ideal for those travelling on the night train. There are many inexpensive restaurants and beer gardens in Munich including the famous Hoffbrauhaus.

Paris, France

Paris does not have to be expensive. I visited Paris in the late summer a few years ago and found a hotel in the heart of the city for less than $200 per night. Our best meal in Paris was actually the night we stopped at a small Greek restaurant in the Latin Quarter for the best gyro I have ever eaten in my life. The trick to spending less in touristy cities like Paris is to look for those non-touristy restaurants and attractions off the beaten track. St. Christopher's Hostel is worth checking out for those wanting to see the city of lights on a modest budget.

Barcelona, Spain

If you love art, you do not want to miss a trip to Barcelona. There are many inexpensive restaurants for tapas and incredible art museums and architecture. Spain is one of the favorite vacation destinations for Europeans. The wonderful climate and excellent food cannot be beat. Barcelona's Albareda Youth Hostel is one of Europe's newer and cleaner hostels. It is worth checking out, but do not be surprised if it is booked. Barcelona is also a cheaper travel destination if you visit during the off-peak time of the year.

London, England

It is very easy to spend a lot of money in London, but it is also not that difficult to plan an affordable London vacation. The many gorgeous parks of London are free. Stay at one of the four Astor Hostels located around London (the Astor Museum Hostel is considered the best) for cheap accommodations. Dine at an English pub or try one of the many affordable Indian restaurants. If you want to shop while in London, avoid High Street and instead head out on a Saturday morning to the world famous Portobello market (you will not be disappointed).

Krakow, Poland

Did you know that many Europeans travel to Poland just to have dental work done? Poland can be one of the most inexpensive countries in Europe to visit. My husband has actually travelled to Poland several times on hunting trips. Poland has a large wild boar population. Krakow is an interesting Eastern European city with a rich history. There are many inexpensive restaurants and Krakow's Flamingo Hostel is considered one of the best hostels in Europe.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Did you know that year after year the Danes are voted the happiest people in the world? The picturesque city of Copenhagen (not cheap by any standard) may be one of the reasons the Danes are so happy. While, Copenhagen can be one of the more expensive European cities to visit, much can be done to make a trip to my favorite European city affordable. First, stay at one of the many fine hostels. The Hotel Loeven, hostel, is centrally located very near Copenhagen's famous Tivoli amusement park. Another way to save money in Copenhagen is to rent a bike to get around. This lovely Danish city is almost completely flat and is one of the most bike-friendly cities in Europe.

This is my list of Ten European Cities that can be affordable. Spend time, do your homework and you may find that a European vacation is more affordable then you ever imagined.

Sources:

http://hostels.bootsnall.com/articles/top-17-hostels-in-europe.html

http://www.hostels.com/copenhagen/denmark