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Europe in the summer can often be described as tourist soup!
It sometimes feels like there are more Americans in Europe during high season than there are Americans in the US
But despite Europe’s seemingly endless popularity, it’s not always the most affordable place to visit. And I have an empty bank account to prove it!
But it doesn’t have to be this way.
New research by eTurbo News has looked at hotel costs, expenses and travel costs to discover the 5 cheapest European capitals at the moment:
5. Podgorica, Montenegro
Podgorica is a fascinating city famous for its architecture, four rivers and thriving cultural scene.
It is considered the gateway to wider Montenegro, but despite this, relatively few tourists choose to visit the city.
Some of the best things to do in Podgorica are free. This includes a visit to the Orthodox Temple of the Resurrection of Christ, a cathedral in the heart of the city, and exploring the Nijagara Waterfall. (Not to be confused with the Niagara Falls of the same name!)
This is a beautiful waterfall that sits on one of the city’s four rivers and is a short walk from the heart, making it an unusual escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Podgorica is an affordable travel destination and according to the eturbo news report, the average daily expenditure for tourists in the city is only $44.19. You can expect to spend an average of $160.44 for 5 nights of accommodation.
4. Chisinau, Moldova
Chisinau is one of the greenest and greenest cities on this list and it is also a wonderfully compact, neat and walkable city.
Despite gaining independence in 1991, Chisinau still has a very Soviet feel.
You’ll find a lot of Soviet-style architecture here, as well as some neoclassical structures. So why should you visit?
Highlights of the city include the Municipal Historical Museum of Chisinau.
This has a beautiful 360 degree viewpoint over the city and is a great place to learn more about this interesting but complicated history of Chisinau.
According to Eturbo News, expect an average daily spend of $39.12 in Chisinau and an average hotel rate of $174.10 per person for a five-night stay.
3. Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Sarajevo is another fascinating European capital with a complicated history.
It is sometimes called the ‘Jerusalem of Europe’ because of its cultural and religious diversity.
The city has a beautiful old town with a rich history. Here you can explore Baščaršija, Sarajevo’s old bazaar, packed with shops and restaurants.
Then take a walk on the beautiful Latin Bridge that was built during the Ottoman period.
Sarajevo experienced a devastating siege and genocide in the 1990s, and much of the city feels like a living museum dedicated to this tragedy.
Learn more by visiting the Tunnel of Hope, which was used to smuggle food and weapons into the city. Entrance costs 10 km ($5.70) per person.
Expect to spend an average of €35.99 on your daily expenses and factor in an average of €195.56 per person for a 5-night hotel stay.
2. Skopje, North Macedonia
Skopje is one of the least visited European cities, but despite this there is still a lot to see and do.
Beautiful buildings, sculptures, bridges and fountains attract history buffs and culture vultures alike.
Visit the imposing Skopje Fortress, which is free to enter and located at the highest viewpoint in the city, offering epic views.
Skopje was the birthplace of Mother Teresa, and the Mother Theresa memorial house is located in the house where she lived from 1910 to 1928.
Dedicated to her life and work, it is a niche but fascinating place to explore. Admission is free.
As the second most affordable European capital, you will have to spend an average of €34.61 per day here.
Lodging costs an average of just $131.02 per person for a 5-night stay.
1. Pristina, Kosovo
Pristina is considered the hidden gem of the Balkans and is the cheapest European capital according to the report, making it a great place for travelers on a budget.
The city has a vibrant and youthful feel, with a great nightlife, thriving arts scene and vibrant café culture.
The Great Mosque, the Serbian Orthodox Monastery and the Cathedral of St. Mother Teresa are all iconic sights.
If you only do one thing in Pristina, make sure you visit the National University Library of Kosovo.
This is not just any ordinary library; it is an architectural tour de force.
Croatian architect Andrija Mutnjaković designed it and it is considered one of the ugliest buildings in the world, although I like the modern, angular look!
Pristina is officially the most affordable European capital. For a five-night hotel stay, allow €32.07 per night for your expenses and €150.90 per person on average.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author, and not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included in the post.
