5 Affordable Weekend Getaways in Europe for your next trip

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Europe is a dream destination for many travellers, with its rich history, stunning architecture, and diverse cultures. However, it is often perceived as an expensive place to visit. The good news is that with some budget-friendly travel tips and affordable weekend getaways, exploring Europe is within reach for those on a tight budget.

Budget-Friendly Travel Tips for Europe

  • 1. Use budget airlines and public transportation: One of the biggest expenses when travelling to Europe is the cost of flights. Look for budget airlines that offer affordable fares to popular European destinations. Once you arrive, make use of public transportation such as buses and trains, which are often cheaper than taxis or rental cars.
  • 2. Stay in hostels or budget hotels: Accommodation can also be a major expense when travelling in Europe. Consider staying in hostels, which offer affordable dormitory-style rooms or private rooms at a lower cost than hotels. Alternatively, look for budget hotels or guesthouses that offer basic amenities at a lower price.
  • 3. Eat like a local and avoid tourist traps: Dining out can quickly add up, especially in popular tourist areas. Instead of eating at expensive restaurants, try local street food or visit local markets where you can find affordable and delicious meals. Avoid eating in touristy areas, as prices tend to be higher.
  • 4. Take advantage of free activities and attractions: Many European cities offer free walking tours, where local guides take you around the city and provide insights into its history and culture. Additionally, there are often free or discounted entry days for museums and attractions. Take advantage of these opportunities to explore the city without spending a fortune.

Affordable Weekend Getaways in Europe: Why They’re Worth It

  • 1. Weekend getaways are a great way to explore Europe without breaking the bank. By taking advantage of budget airlines and affordable accommodation options, you can visit a new city and experience a different culture in just a few days.
  • 2. Weekend getaways allow you to make the most of your limited time off. Instead of waiting for a long vacation, you can take short breaks throughout the year and explore different parts of Europe. This way, you can see more and experience more without having to take extended time off work.
  • 3. Weekend getaways can be a refreshing break from everyday life. Whether you’re looking to relax on a beach, explore historic landmarks, or indulge in local cuisine, a weekend getaway can provide a much-needed escape from the daily grind. It’s a chance to recharge and rejuvenate before returning to your routine.

Prague, Czech Republic: A Budget-Friendly Gem

Weekend Getaways in Europe
Weekend Getaways in Europe

Prague is known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture. It is also a budget-friendly destination, making it an ideal choice for travellers on a tight budget.

The city offers affordable food and drink options, with plenty of local restaurants and street food stalls to choose from. You can also find cheap accommodation options, including hostels and budget hotels.

One of the best ways to explore Prague on a budget is by taking advantage of the free walking tours offered by local guides. These tours provide a great introduction to the city’s history and culture, and allow you to see popular attractions such as Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, and the Old Town Square.

Additionally, there are many cheap or free attractions in Prague, such as the Prague Astronomical Clock and the Lennon Wall.

Budapest, Hungary: A City of Culture and Charm

Weekend Getaways in Europe
Weekend Getaways in Europe

Budapest is another budget-friendly destination in Europe that offers a wealth of cultural attractions and stunning architecture. The city is famous for its thermal baths, which are not only a great way to relax but also an affordable activity. You can soak in the healing waters of the Széchenyi Thermal Bath or the Gellért Thermal Bath without breaking the bank.

When it comes to food and drink, Budapest offers a range of affordable options. You can try traditional Hungarian dishes at local restaurants or sample street food from food stalls and markets. Don’t miss out on trying goulash, a hearty Hungarian stew, or chimney cake, a sweet pastry that is popular in Budapest.

Krakow, Poland: A Historic and Affordable Destination

Best Party Cities in Europe
Market square in Krakow at sunrise. Mariacki Cathedral. Poland

Krakow is a historic city in Poland that offers a rich history and stunning architecture. It is also an affordable destination, making it a great choice for budget travelers. The city has a wide range of affordable food and drink options, from traditional Polish cuisine to international dishes. You can try pierogi, a type of dumpling filled with various ingredients, or sample Polish vodka at local bars.

One of the highlights of Krakow is the Wawel Castle, which offers free entry on certain days. You can explore the castle grounds and visit the Cathedral and Royal Chambers without spending a dime. Another must-visit attraction is the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, which offers free entry but requires a reservation.

Lisbon, Portugal: A Coastal City with a Rich History

Lisbon is a coastal city in Portugal that offers beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, and a vibrant culture. It is also an affordable destination, making it a great choice for budget travelers. The city has a range of affordable food and drink options, from traditional Portuguese dishes to international cuisine. You can try pastel de nata, a delicious custard tart, or sample local wines at wine bars.

One of the best ways to explore Lisbon on a budget is by taking advantage of the free walking tours offered by local guides. These tours provide a great introduction to the city’s history and culture, and allow you to see popular attractions such as the Belém Tower, the Jerónimos Monastery, and the Alfama district. Additionally, there are many cheap or free attractions in Lisbon, such as the São Jorge Castle and the LX Factory.

Valencia, Spain: A Vibrant City with a Mediterranean Vibe

valencia, nature, spain-1049389.jpg
The arts and sciences building in valencia at dusk.

Valencia is a vibrant city in Spain that offers beautiful beaches, stunning architecture, and a Mediterranean vibe. It is also an affordable destination, making it a great choice for budget travelers. The city has a range of affordable food and drink options, from traditional Spanish tapas to paella, a rice dish that originated in Valencia. You can also try horchata, a refreshing drink made from tiger nuts.

One of the highlights of Valencia is the City of Arts and Sciences, which offers a range of attractions including an opera house, a science museum, and an aquarium. While some of these attractions have an entry fee, you can still enjoy the stunning architecture and the surrounding gardens for free. Another must-visit attraction is the Central Market, where you can find fresh produce, local delicacies, and souvenirs.

Athens, Greece: A Budget-Friendly Destination with Ancient History

Athens is a historic city in Greece that offers a rich history and ancient landmarks. It is also a budget-friendly destination, making it a great choice for budget travelers. The city has a range of affordable food and drink options, from traditional Greek dishes to international cuisine. You can try souvlaki, a popular Greek street food, or sample local wines at tavernas.

One of the highlights of Athens is the Acropolis, which offers stunning views of the city and ancient ruins such as the Parthenon. While there is an entry fee to visit the Acropolis, you can still explore the surrounding area for free. Another must-visit attraction is the Ancient Agora, which was once the heart of ancient Athens and offers a glimpse into the city’s past.

Dubrovnik, Croatia: A Stunning Coastal City on a Budget

An aerial view of the old town of dubrovnik, croatia.
An aerial view of the old town of dubrovnik, croatia.

Dubrovnik is a stunning coastal city in Croatia that offers beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, and a charming old town. It is also an affordable destination, making it a great choice for budget travelers. The city has a range of affordable food and drink options, from traditional Croatian dishes to international cuisine. You can try seafood specialties or sample local wines at wine bars.

One of the highlights of Dubrovnik is the city walls, which offer panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and the old town. While there is an entry fee to walk along the walls, it is well worth the cost for the breathtaking views. Another must-visit attraction is the Dubrovnik Cable Car, which takes you to the top of Mount Srđ and offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding islands.

Berlin, Germany: A City of Art, History, and Affordable Fun

Explore the stunning skyline of Berlin with the iconic TV tower as a majestic backdrop. Embark on an exciting European itinerary or choose from our diverse travel packages to Europe, all offering an unforgettable and
Explore the stunning skyline of Berlin with the iconic TV tower as a majestic backdrop. Embark on an exciting European itinerary or choose from our diverse travel packages to Europe, all offering an unforgettable and

Berlin is a vibrant city in Germany that offers a rich history, a vibrant art scene, and affordable fun. It is also an affordable destination, making it a great choice for budget travelers. The city has a range of affordable food and drink options, from traditional German dishes to international cuisine. You can try currywurst, a popular street food, or sample local beers at beer gardens.

One of the highlights of Berlin is the East Side Gallery, which is a section of the Berlin Wall that has been turned into an open-air gallery. You can explore the colorful murals and learn about the history of the wall for free. Another must-visit attraction is the Museum Island, which offers a range of museums and galleries. While some of these attractions have an entry fee, you can still enjoy the stunning architecture and the surrounding gardens for free.

Conclusion: Affordable Weekend Getaways in Europe are Within Reach

With these budget-friendly travel tips and affordable weekend getaway options, exploring Europe is within reach for those on a tight budget. By using budget airlines, staying in hostels or budget hotels, eating like a local, and taking advantage of free activities and attractions, you can experience all that Europe has to offer without breaking the bank. Don’t let a tight budget hold you back from exploring the stunning architecture, rich history, and diverse cultures of Europe. Start planning your affordable weekend getaway today!

Sankalp Singh is the Founder and Author of Chasing Whereabouts. He is passionate about travel, photography, and food. He has travelled across Europe extensively to experience its quirks, culture, and diversity. He is a self-taught traveller and he has been exploring the world since the age of 25. When he is not travelling, you can find him at work being a Software Engineer in 9-5 Job.

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