The 15 cheapest cities in Europe (perfect for traveling)

One of the issues that we value the most when choosing a destination for our trips is the cost of living of the place. The truth is that prices can vary drastically between cities and countries, so many times a choice based on ignorance can lead us to spend more money than we previously had planned. In addition, many times this decision can be even more crucial, since we do not think about traveling but about moving.

Now, what determines that a city is more or less expensive? Although various criteria can be used to determine the cost of living in a city, one of the main aspects to assess is the cost of basic products and services. Among them we can find personal hygiene items, clothing, food, etc. Essential services such as water and electricity, health, education or the rental of homes and vehicles would also be included. Added to this, taxes and exchange rates must also be taken into account.

• We recommend you read: "The 9 best destinations to travel with friends (and what to do in them)"

Why are there cities cheaper than others?

To gauge whether the cost of living in a city is more or less high, New York City is often used as a reference. To do this, a conversion is made to dollars of the different currencies of each place and it is compared with the average cost of living in this American city.

Before opting for one destination or another, it is essential not only to know the average cost of living that you will find there, but also to make an analysis of your own needs. That is, although objective lists can be made, not everyone looks for the same things when they decide to move to another place. You must ask yourself if you are going to go to work, study or both, if you are going to need to use transport daily, what motivates you to go live there, etc. Only by knowing the answers to these questions will you be able to get an idea of ​​which city is best for your lifestyle and your possibilities.

It is important to keep in mind that those places with the highest cost do not only have disadvantages. Even if you pay very high prices for the goods and services you consume, you will never find supply difficulties and you will have access to them without problems. For this reason, it is advisable not to focus only on monetary issues, but rather also assess the quality and accessibility of essential resources. In addition, many cities considered expensive are also attractive due to the many opportunities they can provide.

As we know that these types of decisions are never easy, in this article we are going to collect the 15 cities cheapest in Europe, so that you can think about the option that best suits you with all the information possible.

What are the cheapest European cities?

As we have been commenting, assessing whether or not a city is suitable for oneself is something that depends not only on objective parameters, but also the knowledge of what we need, what activities we will carry out in the destination city, what aspects are most important to us, etc. Even if you are the one who makes the final decision, here we are going to show those 15 cheapest cities on the European continent, so that you can have a guide when choosing.

1. Porto (Portugal)

This Portuguese city could not be missing from our list. Porto rests on the banks of the Douro River, which marks the aesthetics of the city, characterized by striking bridges that allow you to cross it. Porto is not only a pleasant and picturesque place to taste delicious wines, but it is also a cheap destination whether you want to do tourism or if you are looking to settle permanently.

This city will capture you for its traditional music (called fado), its gastronomic offer, its history and its bohemian atmosphere. In Porto you can eat for less than 8 euros And drink a pint of beer for 2, so they are more than reasonable prices.

2. Sofia (Bulgaria)

The Bulgarian capital is another option if you are looking for a cheap city in Europe. Sofia ranks among the oldest capitals on the continent, with a rich history dating back to the century BC. C. It is a city with a great Orthodox tradition, so you cannot miss a visit to its temples.

In addition to its rich history and mix of Greek and Roman influences, Sofia has delicious cuisine, dominated by cheese and meat. To give you an idea of ​​their prices, you can spend the night in a hostel for about 7 euros and eat for 6 in a restaurant.

3. Prague (Czech Republic)

One of the most beautiful cities on our list it is, without a doubt, Prague. Its architecture and history will not leave you indifferent and will captivate you. You can have a beer on the banks of the river, cross its bridges, enjoy its lively nightlife... all without leaving your savings in the attempt. For example, a pint of beer will cost you... Less than 2 euros!

4. Berlin Germany)

Contrary to what it may seem, the capital of Germany is a good alternative if you are looking for an inexpensive but full of life city. This city is characterized by its enormous cultural offer, with countless galleries and museums. In addition to its culture, Berlin also offers a lively evening and delicious gastronomy. If you want to enjoy leisure and culture on a tight budget, Berlin is your place, then you can eat for 8 euros or have a beer for less than 4.

5. Sevilla Spain)

This Spanish city is one of the cheapest and most attractive at the same time. Its monumental and artistic heritage make Seville a beautiful environment, where you can also enjoy its customs, flamenco, Andalusian gastronomy and the friendliness of its people. It is mandatory to do a tapas route, visit the Plaza de España and stroll through its neighborhoods.

In addition, its climate throughout the year is pleasant, although it is especially ideal to visit this place. during the spring, since the heat is not too oppressive and you will find a Seville full of color and joy. You can do all this without leaving a lot of money, since in Seville you can eat for 9 euros or stay in a hostel for less than 20.

6. Warsaw, Poland)

The Polish capital is an example of improvement. This city ravaged by Nazism and World War II has been rebuilt, its old town being declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Despite being a European capital, Warsaw maintains low prices relative to other large cities in the world. continent, being able to eat out for less than 6 euros or have a beer for less than 3, making it an excellent destiny.

7. Bucharest (Romania)

The Romanian capital is another European city that should be on this list. It is a peculiar city, where Soviet-style buildings are interspersed with Byzantine churches and the great Art Nouveau buildings. Its prices are very cheap and make it easy to eat, move around in transport or stay somewhere, so do not hesitate to visit it.

8. Lisbon Portugal)

Lisbon is another wonderful city where you will find everything you expect from a place at an affordable price. You can visit World Heritage monuments, such as the Torre de Bélem. You will also taste delicious food, such as cod or their traditional cakes. What's more, you can enjoy a bohemian and relaxed environment and the friendliness of its people. All this at a low cost in relation to other European places.

9. Budapest, Hungary)

Budapest is another European destination that could not be missing from our list. It is a city in which there is always something to do, as it has many attractive points. Among them are the Chain Bridge, the Fisherman's Bastion or the Parliament. In addition, you can cruise the Danube River and enjoy the beauty of the city illuminated at night. Its low prices will allow you eat in great restaurants for 20 euros or stay one night in a hotel for less than 30.

10. Krakow (Poland)

This Polish city, the second largest city in the country, it is famous for its excellent state of conservation, its medieval-type center and its Jewish quarter. You cannot miss a visit to the Market Square, which is the vital center of Krakow. In addition, you can approach the banks of the Vistula River that bathes the city and enjoy its lively atmosphere, as it is a popular Erasmus destination. Like Warsaw, it has more than reasonable prices, making it a great destination.

11. Riga (Latvia)

The capital of Latvia is gaining popularity in recent years. Its art-nouveau architecture and beauty, as well as its variety of churches, museums, and cafes, make it the perfect destination. Of course, their prices are very low and you will hardly spend any money on your plans around Riga.

12. Belgrade (Serbia)

Belgrade is a European city that, like Riga, is ringing more and more. It is a place with great potential that is growing remarkably. As a destination it cannot be better, since in addition to excellent prices, you will find an enormous cultural and artistic wealth, with Roman, Byzantine, Austrian influences, etc. You can also enjoy its museums and nightlife, all for a minimal price.

13. Istanbul, Turkey)

This city is, without a doubt, the most exotic and different on our list. It is a city that is part European and part Asian. This mix of cultural influences makes Istanbul a unique and magical place where tradition and modernity coexist. You can enjoy it at slightly lower prices than in Spain, so it is an excellent option if you are looking for something different without leaving the savings.

14. Kiev (Ukraine)

This Ukrainian city has suffered the ravages of a strong political crisis, but it is still an interesting destination on our list. Kiev is a safe destination and an important cultural hub in Eastern Europe. You can enjoy its architecture and gastronomy at ridiculous prices.

15. Zagreb (Croatia)

The capital of Croatia has been dubbed as "Little Vienna", due to its style reminiscent of the old Austro-Hungarian Empire. This city is just the right size for short breaks, although it will offer endless entertainment such as music, gastronomy, museums, outdoor activities, etc. All this at minimum prices.