With a rich history and unique attractions, these countries are ideal for those of you who want to enjoy a low budget escape this year.
Looking for your next travel destination in Europe, but your budget is limited? Tired of the classic destinations and want to discover new places? Whether you love historic cities with squares and castles that look straight out of movie sets, or you prefer strolls in nature and relaxing on the beach, the countries below, recommended by Time Out, can offer you unforgettable travel experiences without spending much.
Poland
Krakow and Warsaw may no longer be considered budget destinations, but Poland remains an excellent value for money choice if you venture off the beaten path. Gorgeous cities like Poznan, Wroclaw and Lublin are more affordable options, offering travelers a captivating mix of Renaissance, modernist and Gothic architecture. Katowice is also worth a visit, having evolved into one of the regions most exciting, innovative cities.
Serbia
Beyond Belgrade, the heartland of Serbia is an ideal destination for travelers seeking affordable escapes. Cities like Kraljevo and Novi Pazar are rich in history, while 20th-century buffs will find plenty to love in Kragujevac and Uzice. The northern region of Vojvodina remains beautiful, with Subotica and Zrenjanin blending cultures, architectural styles and culinary heritage.
Bosnia and Herzegovina
When it comes to value for money in Europe, few places can match Bosnia and Herzegovina, notes Time Out. Beyond Sarajevo and Mostar, which remain relatively affordable, you can visit Travnik, a small town with rich architecture and the best grilled meat in the country. Another option is the little known to tourists Jajce, with the waterfalls in the city center as the highlight.
Lithuania
The capital of Lithuania, Vilnius, remains one of Europes most under-the-radar cities. The city boasts a beautiful and well-preserved historic center rich in sights, an artistic atmosphere, abundant greenery (it is considered one of Europes «greenest» capitals), original street art on every corner, and a vibrancy many big cities would envy. Whether you want to explore the historic sights of Vilnius and Kaunas, or dive into the Baltic shores in Klaipeda or Neringa, Lithuania is a country that can thrill you while remaining affordable.
Bulgaria
When the calendar flipped from 2025 to 2026, Bulgaria finally entered the eurozone. What this means for the future of budget travel in the country remains to be seen, but the beauty of the Balkans will always be worth it. Plovdiv is one of Europes most exciting cities, with one of the best-preserved Roman theaters in the world offering impressive views over the city and its surroundings. Also worth visiting is the Rila Monastery, one of the most serene places in Europe according to Time Out.
Albania
Albania, in recent years, has been winning the tourism game and is becoming a «gem» for visitors. Tirana remains one of Europes most underrated capitals, while the Albanian Riviera has built its reputation around its magical beaches. Towns like Saranda, Vlora and Himara offer beautiful seaside scenery at affordable prices. In the north, Shkoder awaits travelers who want to discover a historic city with bike lanes, castles and a lake ideal for relaxation.
