Planning a European adventure without breaking the bank? While cities like Paris, London, and Amsterdam continue to command premium prices, savvy Australian travelers are discovering that Europe still offers incredible value destinations where your dollars stretch further.
With the Australian dollar currently holding steady against the euro and pound, now is an excellent time to explore some of Europe’s most budget-friendly cities that deliver authentic experiences without the eye-watering price tags.
Porto, Portugal
Portugal’s second-largest city has become a favorite among budget-conscious travelers, and it’s easy to see why. Porto combines stunning architecture, world-class wine, and riverside charm at prices that feel refreshingly reasonable.
Accommodation in Porto remains remarkably affordable, with quality guesthouses and apartments available from $80-120 per night. A hearty meal at a traditional tasca (tavern) will set you back just $15-20, while a glass of port wine costs as little as $3-5. The city’s famous Francesinha sandwich – a Portuguese twist on a croque monsieur – is both delicious and wallet-friendly at around $10.
Don’t miss the chance to explore the historic Ribeira district, visit the iconic Livraria Lello bookshop, and take a port wine tour in nearby Vila Nova de Gaia, where tastings are often complimentary or very reasonably priced.
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest offers some of Europe’s best value, combining grand imperial architecture with vibrant nightlife and relaxing thermal baths. The Hungarian forint’s favorable exchange rate means Australians get exceptional bang for their buck.
Accommodation in Budapest can be found for as little as $60-100 per night for comfortable hotels or apartments. A traditional Hungarian meal, complete with goulash and local wine, typically costs $15-25. The city’s famous ruin bars offer craft beers for around $3-4, and admission to the stunning thermal baths ranges from $20-35.
Public transport is incredibly cheap, with day passes costing just a few dollars. Must-see attractions like the Parliament Building, Fisherman’s Bastion, and Buda Castle are either free to admire from outside or charge modest entry fees.
Krakow, Poland
Poland’s former royal capital punches well above its weight in terms of cultural offerings while maintaining some of the lowest prices in Europe. Krakow’s beautifully preserved medieval Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site that costs nothing to explore.
Expect to pay $70-110 per night for quality accommodation, while restaurant meals range from $12-20 for hearty Polish classics like pierogi and bigos. Local craft beers cost around $3-4, and coffee is typically just $2-3.
The city serves as an excellent base for day trips to the Wieliczka Salt Mine and Auschwitz-Birkenau, both significant historical sites with affordable entry fees. Krakow’s thriving cultural scene includes numerous free walking tours and regular festivals.
Athens, Greece
Greece’s ancient capital has bounced back from its economic challenges to offer excellent value for visitors. While tourist hotspots near the Acropolis can be pricey, venturing into local neighborhoods reveals the city’s affordable side.
Budget around $90-130 per night for comfortable accommodation in areas like Monastiraki or Plaka. Traditional tavernas serve generous portions of souvlaki, Greek salad, and moussaka for $12-18. The city’s vibrant coffee culture means you’ll find excellent freddo espresso for just $3-4.
Many of Athens’ ancient sites are covered by a combined ticket costing around $40, which includes access to the Acropolis, Ancient Agora, and Roman Forum. Free admission days are also available during certain months.
Valencia, Spain
Spain’s third-largest city offers Mediterranean beaches, futuristic architecture, and fantastic paella at prices well below Barcelona or Madrid. Valencia delivers Spanish culture without the tourist premiums.
Accommodation runs from $80-120 per night, while the city’s renowned paella – which originated here – costs $12-18 per person at authentic restaurants. Tapas and local Agua de Valencia cocktails are similarly affordable. The city’s excellent metro system makes getting around cheap and easy.
Valencia’s City of Arts and Sciences provides stunning photo opportunities, while the beautiful Turia Gardens – a park built in a former riverbed – are free to explore. The city’s beaches are pristine and completely free to enjoy.
Bucharest, Romania
Romania’s capital is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets, offering grand boulevards, beautiful parks, and a thriving cultural scene at remarkably low prices. Bucharest’s elegant architecture and complex history provide rich experiences for curious travelers.
Quality accommodation starts from just $60-90 per night, while traditional Romanian restaurants serve hearty meals for $10-15. The city’s cafes and bars offer some of Europe’s cheapest coffee and drinks, with beers costing around $2-3.
The massive Palace of Parliament – the world’s second-largest administrative building – offers fascinating tours for under $15. Meanwhile, the open-air Village Museum and Herastrau Park provide free or low-cost cultural experiences.
Prague, Czech Republic
While Prague has become more touristy in recent years, it remains significantly more affordable than Western European capitals. The Czech crown’s exchange rate works in Australians’ favor, and the city’s fairy-tale architecture requires no admission fee to admire.
Expect to pay $90-140 per night for good hotels or apartments, particularly if you book outside the immediate Old Town area. Czech cuisine is hearty and filling, with traditional dishes costing $12-18. The country’s excellent beer is famously cheap, with half-liters available for $2-4 even in central areas.
Charles Bridge, Prague Castle, and the astronomical clock are iconic sights that can be enjoyed for free or minimal cost. The city’s efficient public transport system is also very affordable.
Making Your Money Go Further
To maximize your budget in these cities, consider these tips:
Travel during shoulder season – Visit in April-May or September-October for better prices and fewer crowds while still enjoying pleasant weather.
Book accommodation with kitchens – Preparing even a few meals yourself can significantly reduce costs, and shopping at local markets is an experience in itself.
Use public transport – All these cities have excellent, affordable public transport networks. Invest in multi-day passes for the best value.
Look for free walking tours – Most of these cities offer tip-based walking tours that provide excellent introductions to local history and culture.
Eat where locals eat – Venture beyond tourist areas to find authentic restaurants with lower prices and better food.
Take advantage of free museum days – Many museums offer free admission on certain days or times.
The Bottom Line
European travel doesn’t have to drain your savings. These affordable cities prove that you can experience rich history, stunning architecture, delicious cuisine, and authentic culture without the premium prices of more famous destinations.
For Australians willing to look beyond the traditional tourist trail, cities like Porto, Budapest, and Krakow offer incredible value and often more authentic experiences than their pricier counterparts. With careful planning and smart choices, your European adventure can be both memorable and affordable.
The key is choosing destinations where your Australian dollars work harder, allowing you to travel longer, experience more, and perhaps even plan that return trip sooner than you thought possible.
