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‘Vibrant’ European capital named as the cheapest – beating Poland or Bulgaria

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‘Vibrant’ European capital named as the cheapest – beating Poland or Bulgaria

A recent study has identified the most affordable European capitals for travellers in 2024 and it is not where you might think. Forget the likes of Spain, Albania, Hungary and Greece for cheapness. 

The research, conducted by Vatican Tours and Tickets, has analysed the total travel cost per person for a five-night, six-day vacation in European capitals. 

The costs include average daily spending on food and local travel, hotel prices, and transportation expenses.  

Data was sourced from Numbeo for daily expenses and Rome2Rio for inbound and outbound travel costs. 

The average price of journeys between other European capitals was used to determine inbound air travel costs if the city is the destination and outbound travel costs if the city is the origin. 

Booking.com was used for the average hotel prices for two adults staying five nights in September. These figures were combined to provide an estimate of total spending per person over the course of the trip.  

Let’s take a look at the top 10 most budget-friendly options this autumn. 

10. Bratislava, Slovakia 

Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, ranks tenth with a total vacation cost of €888.21 per person for a six-day stay. Daily expenses in the city average €53.20, totaling €319.20 for the entire trip.  

Accommodation is relatively affordable at €267.97 for five nights, while average travel costs are moderate, with inbound flights costing around €150.78 and outbound flights at €150.26.  

Magdalena Petrusic, travel expert from Vatican Tours and Tickets, commented on the findings: “This study points to how affordable European travel can open doors to some of the continent’s most culturally rich and historically significant capitals.  

“Pristina and Skopje, for example, are not just low-cost options—they are gateways to understanding the diverse cultures of the Balkans. These cities offer travellers access to authentic experiences, from exploring centuries-old architecture to local traditions, all at a fraction of the cost of more popular destinations.”

(Image: Getty)

St. Alexander Nevski Cathedral, Sofia, Bulgaria

9. Warsaw and Sofia 

Warsaw, Poland, at €867.38, and Sofia, Bulgaria, (pictured) at €868.57, in eighth and ninth, respectively. Both capitals are known for their rich history and vibrant cultural scenes. Though they are more costly compared to the top-ranked cities, they still provide excellent value for those looking to explore Eastern Europe without excessive spending.

(Image: Getty)

View of Hungary parliament building in Budapest at sunny day

7. Belgrade, and Budapest 

Belgrade, the capital of Serbia, ranks sixth with a total vacation cost of €835.68, followed by Budapest, Hungary, (pictured) at €863.39 in seventh. These capitals, while slightly more expensive than the top five, still offer budget-friendly options for travellers, with their own unique cultural and historical attractions. 

(Image: Getty)

Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ, Podgorica

5. Podgorica, Montenegro 

Podgorica, the capital of Montenegro, ranks fifth on the list with a total vacation cost of €794.92 per person for a six-day trip. The city’s daily spending rate averages €41.30, amounting to €247.80 over the entire stay.  

Accommodation in Podgorica is reasonably priced, with an average cost of €149.95 for five nights. Travel costs are also moderate, with inbound flights averaging €198 and outbound flights at €199.17. Together, these factors make Podgorica an attractive option for those wanting to explore Montenegro. 

(Image: Getty)

Arch of Triumph and Blooming Gardens in Chișinău

4. Chișinău, Moldova 

Chișinău, the capital of Moldova, places fourth with a total vacation cost of €784.07 per person. The city’s daily spending rate is €36.56, allowing travellers to explore its green parks, Soviet-era architecture, and burgeoning wine culture. 

Average travel prices are also affordable, with inbound flights costing around €208.41 and outbound at €193.59. 

Accommodation in Chișinău remains affordable, with an average hotel price of €162.71 per person for five nights. Travel costs are also reasonable, making Chișinău a great option for those looking to discover one of Europe’s lesser-known capitals without overspending.

(Image: Getty)

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