7 surprisingly affordable places to visit in Europe
A dream trip doesn’t have to break the bank. If you’re traveling on a budget, here are 7 of the most affordable places to visit in Europe on tour with us.
Europe’s most unforgettable adventures don’t always come with a high price tag. From vibrant capital cities to coastal escapes, there are plenty of European destinations that deliver rich culture, history, and scenery for far less than travelers expect. Visiting during the off-season, taking advantage of group rates, and focusing on walkable cities are just a few ways to see more of Europe while keeping costs down.
At EF Go Ahead Tours, we’ve seen how meaningful travel can also be affordable. Smart planning, not overspending, is what makes a trip memorable, and these European destinations prove that some of the best places to visit aren’t as expensive as you might think.
1. Florence: Renaissance beauty at affordable prices
Why Florence is surprisingly affordable
Florence feels like an open-air museum. Its cobblestone streets, piazzas, and views can all be enjoyed without spending a cent. Travelers come for the art and history, but they stay for the atmosphere that’s free to soak up just by walking. It’s the perfect choice for a short city stay or anyone who wants the full Tuscan experience without the price tag of larger tours.
What makes Florence budget-friendly
Florence is incredibly walkable, meaning you can explore most major sights without transportation costs. Many churches offer free entry, viewpoints are outdoors, and local markets provide affordable food options. The city’s layout makes it easy to enjoy world-famous architecture, panoramic overlooks, and historic neighborhoods without spending much at all.
Free and low-cost things to do in Florence
- Piazza del Duomo: The city’s central gathering point, home to Florence’s main cathedral, which offers free entry.
- Piazzale Michelangelo: A hilltop lookout with postcard-perfect views and a bronze copy of Michelangelo’s David.
- San Miniato al Monte: A peaceful basilica above Piazzale Michelangelo with an even higher sunset vantage point.
- Rose Garden: Just steps from the piazza, this garden features more than 400 varieties of roses—completely free to visit.
Tours to Florence
2. London: Big-city culture without the big-city costs
Why London is cheaper than you think
While London has a reputation for being expensive, travelers are often surprised by how much they can see for free. From iconic landmarks to world-class museums, it’s easy to experience the city’s best culture on a budget, especially if you plan a shorter city stay or focus on its walkable neighborhoods.
What makes London affordable
Many of London’s top attractions don’t cost anything, and even those that do often have free alternatives nearby. You can fill your days with museums, markets, and scenic viewpoints without paying for tours or transportation. The city’s extensive public transit network also makes getting around more budget-friendly than travelers expect.
What are the top free things to do in London?
- Museums: Visit the British Museum, Tate Modern, or National Gallery. All free! (learn more about the city’s best free museum →)
- Markets: Explore Borough Market or Camden Market for a sensory experience of local food and art.
- Landmarks: See Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament from Westminster Bridge.
- Traditions: Watch the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace, one of the city’s most famous free events.
Tours to London
3. Rome: Ancient wonders made affordable
Why Rome is a great value for travelers
Rome’s ancient ruins, Renaissance art, and lively piazzas create one of Europe’s richest travel experiences and much of it costs nothing! Visiting during the off-season also means lower prices and fewer crowds around iconic sites.
How to enjoy Rome without overspending
Rome rewards travelers who explore on foot. Many top attractions are close together, allowing you to admire ancient monuments, Renaissance art, and historic neighborhoods without paying for transportation or guided tours. Public squares, famous staircases, and centuries-old churches offer endless opportunities to experience the city without spending much at all.
What are the top free things to do in London?
- Pantheon: A 2,000-year-old masterpiece and one of the best-preserved monuments in the world.
- Spanish Steps: The largest outdoor staircase in Europe, offering great people-watching and panoramic city views (but no sitting!).
- Piazza Navona and Campo de’ Fiori: Two of the city’s most atmospheric squares, perfect for strolling day or night.
Tours to Rome
4. Paris: Art, style, and cafés—without the high costs
Why Paris can be cheaper than you think
Paris has a luxury reputation, but some of its best experiences cost nothing at all. The city’s beauty is best enjoyed on foot. From gardens and riverbanks to hilltop viewpoints, travelers can fill their itinerary with world-class scenery on a modest budget.
How to explore Paris on a budget
Paris offers endless free spaces including grand boulevards, manicured parks, hilltop basilicas, and scenic riverbanks. Many churches allow free entry, viewpoints don’t require tickets, and the city’s neighborhoods are full of cultural moments you can enjoy simply by exploring on foot. Even classic experiences like picnicking beneath the Eiffel Tower can be done affordably.
Affordable things to do in Paris
- Sacre-Coeur Basilica: The white-marble crown of Montmartre with one of the best views in the city—completely free to enter.
- Luxembourg Gardens and the Tuileries: Peaceful, sculpted parks perfect for picnics. (See why these gardens are our favorite places to picnic in Paris →)
- Champ de Mars: The grassy stretch leading to the Eiffel Tower, ideal for photos or people-watching.
- Left Bank: Full of artists, students, and readers, this area is one of the city’s most inspiring free spaces. (Check out four reading spots in the city →)
Tours to Paris
5. Portugal: Coastal charm and great food at budget-friendly prices
Why Portugal is perfect for budget travelers
Portugal delivers everything travelers love about Europe. Historic cities, beaches, and incredible food are all available at a lower cost than many neighboring countries. Because it’s slightly less crowded, it remains one of the best-value destinations on the continent.
What makes Portugal affordable
Many of Portugal’s highlights are outdoors and free to enjoy, from hilltop viewpoints in Lisbon to sweeping beaches in the Algarve. Public transportation is affordable and efficient, and local markets offer delicious meals for just a few euros. Whether you’re exploring cities or relaxing by the ocean, it’s easy to enjoy Portugal without stretching your budget.
What are the top affordable things to do in Portugal?
- Miradouros in Lisbon: Hilltop viewpoints offering sweeping city views, often with cafes or gardens.
- Algarve beaches: Relax on white sands surrounded by dramatic cliffs. (a featured highlight in the ultimate Portugal Travel Guide →)
- Jardim do Morro in Porto: A beautiful sunset spot overlooking the Douro River and old town.
Tours to Portugal
6. Scotland: Castles and Highlands that won’t break the bank
Why Scotland is more affordable than you think
Between free museums, open landscapes, and walkable city centers, Scotland offers a ton of value for travelers. Whether you’re exploring Edinburgh’s historic streets or the Highlands’ rugged scenery, it’s easy to experience Scotland’s magic without overspending.
What makes Scotland budget-friendly
Much of Scotland’s charm lives outdoors or in free public spaces. Cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow are compact and easy to navigate on foot, and many museums allow free entry. In the Highlands, breathtaking views, hiking trails, and natural landmarks offer unforgettable experiences at no cost.
Free things to do in Scotland
- City Centre Mural Trail: Discover Glasgow’s colorful street art and public murals.
- Old Man of Storr: Hike this famous rock formation in the Scottish Highlands for panoramic views.
- Scottish National Gallery: Visit this Edinburgh museum to see masterpieces from the Renaissance to the 19th century, all for free. (Find more free museums to visit in our Edinburgh Travel Guide →)
Tours to Scotland
7. Sicily: Island history and flavor you can afford
Why Sicily offers big experiences for small budgets
Sicily blends incredible history, scenic landscapes, and some of Italy’s best food, all at a fraction of mainland prices. Travelers looking for authentic Italian culture will find this island both beautiful and surprisingly accessible.
How to enjoy Sicily on a budget
Many of Sicily’s top attractions are free natural or historical landmarks. Cathedrals, coastal viewpoints, lively markets, and volcanic scenery offer rich experiences without entrance fees. Affordable local cuisine and accessible public transportation also help keep travel costs down across the island.
What are the top free things to do in Sicily?
- Palermo Cathedral: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Palermo’s most striking buildings.
- Mount Etna: View this active volcano from nearby Taormina or Catania. No tour fee required!
- Local markets: Walk between stalls and take in the ambiance. (If you have a few euros on hand, sample some fruits and produce, too.)
Tours to Sicily
How to maximize your budget when traveling in Europe
Smart planning can make any trip to Europe more affordable and rewarding. From choosing the right travel season to bundling your experiences, there are plenty of ways to stretch your travel dollars without missing out.
Try these proven strategies:
- Book group travel packages. Joining one of our guided tours. It means built-in savings through shared transportation, pre-arranged accommodations, and expert planning that reduces individual costs.
- Use public transportation and city tourism cards. They’re often cheaper than taxis or car rentals and come with discounts on top attractions.
- Travel during the shoulder season. The shoulder season (spring and autumn) falls between peak and off-peak times, when prices drop and crowds thin out.
- Time your trip strategically. Data shows off-season travel searches in Europe rose by 36% last year, proving that more travelers are discovering how to make the most of their budgets.
Best times to visit affordable European destinations
Timing can make all the difference when it comes to affordability. Airfare, hotel rates, and even entry fees fluctuate depending on when you visit.
- Travel in the shoulder season. Late spring and early autumn are the sweet spots for smaller crowds and lower prices.
- Avoid peak summer months. While June through August are popular, they’re also the priciest.
- Leverage off-season perks. Recent data shows a 36% increase in off-season bookings across Europe, particularly for sun and beach getaways. Proof that travelers are catching on to the savings.
For more tips, check out our guides on off-peak Europe travel and shoulder season tours.
Practical tips for finding budget accommodations and meals
Staying and eating well in Europe doesn’t require overspending, it just takes a few insider strategies.
- Book budget-friendly stays. Hostels, guesthouses, and small hotels often provide the same charm as luxury options for a fraction of the cost.
- Travel in groups for per-person savings. Shared rooms, private transport, and group meals all add up to lower individual expenses.
- Dine like a local. Meals at casual eateries or markets usually range from €10–20, offering authentic experiences and big savings.
- Choose walkable neighborhoods. Pick lodging near public transit or main attractions to save on daily transportation costs.
- Look for daily specials. In many European cities, the “menu del día” (daily menu) offers multi-course meals at excellent value.
Frequently asked questions
P.S. You can book your tour of Europe for only $99 down with AutoPay, and kick back for 60 days before your first interest-free payment! Lock in your lowest price today, and pay for your Go Ahead trip on your own schedule.
