Europe is renowned for its cultural richness, historical landmarks and picturesque landscapes, but it often comes with a hefty price tag. Fortunately, if you are looking into cheap trips, there are plenty of destinations both in Europe and around the world that offer similar experiences as the biggest tourist destinations at a fraction of the cost.
As a budget traveler, you may be able to suss out more affordable vacations in European hotspots, but why not go where you can get more for your money?
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Essentially, the more you save money on your trips, the more vacations you can afford down the line — so there’s no need to sacrifice traveling, but put a more savvy spin on it. Europe is an amazing place to visit, but it is not the only place on the globe with beautiful architecture, decadent bottles of wine and rich culture.
Here are ten places where you can indulge in European-like charm without breaking the bank. You can gauge the average cost per person for a week’s stay and some average daily prices based on other travelers’ experiences. Keep in mind that this pricing will vary depending on what day trips you take, the accommodations you stay in and the cost of other attractions that you seek out.
Tbilisi, Georgia
The average cost for one person to spend a week in Tbilisi is around $205. Here are some average daily prices you can expect:
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Meals: $8.03
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Transportation: $6.20
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Hotels: $25
Georgia’s capital city, Tbilisi, boasts cobblestone streets, historic churches and vibrant art scenes reminiscent of many European cities and town squares. The cost of living is low, making it an affordable destination for travelers. Enjoy the local cuisine, visit the ancient Narikala Fortress and relax in the city’s famous sulfur baths.
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Zagreb, Croatia
The average cost for one person to spend a week in Zagreb is around $575. Here are some average daily prices you can expect:
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Meals: $18
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Transportation: $9.69
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Hotels: $103
Zagreb, the capital of Croatia, is a hidden gem with a mix of Austro-Hungarian architecture and modern attractions. Stroll through historic areas while you visit the eclectic Museum of Broken Relationships, and enjoy the city’s café culture. Zagreb is an affordable alternative to other European capitals, offering similar experiences without the high costs.
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Budapest, Hungary
The average cost for one person to spend a week in Budapest is around $638. Here are some average daily prices you can expect:
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Meals: $23
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Transportation: $11
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Hotels: $99
The “Paris of the East,” also known as Budapest, provides a European ambiance at a lower cost. With its grand historic buildings, thermal baths and the majestic Danube River, Budapest offers you an experience rich with culture but not with massive price tags. The city’s affordable prices extend to its accommodations, dining and entertainment options.
Porto, Portugal
The average weekly cost one person can expect to spend in Porto is around $948. Here are some average daily prices you can expect:
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Meals: $39
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Transportation: $22
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Hotels: $139
Portugal’s second-largest city, Porto, is less expensive than Lisbon but equally entertaining. Known for its port wine, beautiful riverfront and colorful buildings, Porto offers a delightful European experience. Explore the historic Ribeira district and take a scenic cruise along the Douro River.
Krakow, Poland
The average cost for one person to spend a week in Krakow is around $452. Here are some average daily prices you can expect:
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Meals: $13
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Transportation: $6.41
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Hotels: $84
Krakow is a treasure trove of history and culture with its well-preserved medieval core and Jewish quarter. Visit the impressive Wawel Castle, wander through the market square and delve into the poignant history at Auschwitz-Birkenau. Krakow is also known for its vibrant nightlife and budget-friendly prices.
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Sofia, Bulgaria
The average cost for one person to spend a week in Sofia is around $455. Here are some average daily prices you can expect:
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Meals: $18
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Transportation: $8.47
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Hotels: $81
Sofia combines Eastern European charm with affordability. The city is rich in history, with landmarks like the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and the ancient Serdika ruins. Sofia’s parks, museums and thriving café culture make it a pleasant and economical destination.
Tallinn, Estonia
The average cost for one person to spend a week in Tallinn is around $712. Here are some average daily prices you can expect:
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Meals: $39
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Transportation: $13
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Hotels: $101
Tallinn is the City of Music, according to UNESCO, and is a World Heritage site that rivals many Western European cities in beauty. The city’s well-preserved Hanseatic architecture, cobblestone streets and vibrant arts scene make it a fantastic and affordable alternative to more expensive destinations.
Hanoi, Vietnam
The average cost for one person to spend a week in Hanoi is around $335. Here are some average daily prices you can expect:
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Meals: $13
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Transportation: $6.79
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Hotels: $49
For a taste of European colonial architecture with an Asian twist, Hanoi is an excellent choice. The French Quarter, with its wide boulevards and French-inspired buildings, offers a unique blend of European and Vietnamese cultures. Hanoi is also known for its street food and bustling markets, all at incredibly low prices.
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Buenos Aires, Argentina
The average cost for one person to spend a week in Buenos Aires is around $71. Here are some average daily prices you can expect:
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Meals: $3.19
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Transportation: $1.55
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Hotels: $8.13
Buenos Aires features European-style architecture, vibrant cultural life and lively neighborhoods. Visit the historic Teatro Colón, explore the colorful La Boca district and indulge in Argentinian cuisine. The money you save on this trip will help pad your vacation fund for your next trip quite handsomely.
Prague
The average cost per week for one traveler in Prague comes to about $779. Here are some average daily prices you can expect:
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Meals: $26
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Transportation: $8.26
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Hotels: $136
Prague is significantly cheaper than many Western European destinations. The city offers stunning Gothic architecture, the iconic Charles Bridge and an enchanting Old Town in its city center. Accommodation, food and public transport are affordable, making it a budget-friendly choice.
Final Take To GO
The bottom line is that traveling to these destinations allows you to experience the essence of Europe without spending every last euro. Whether you’re drawn to historic architecture, beautiful beaches, vibrant cultures or stunning landscapes, these places offer a taste of Europe that’s accessible and budget-friendly. So, pack your bags and embark on an affordable adventure that rivals any touristy European adventure.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 10 Places To Travel That Are Like Popular European Spots but Way Cheaper
