Read update

With approximately 700 million visitors annually, the tourism sector in Europe is booming. The fabulous continent features some top tourist locations in the world, from Bohemian Prague to lively Paris and from energetic Lisbon to timeless Rome. Travelers are advised to follow one basic rule to benefit the most from their trip to Europe: let one's heart serve as the guide rather than a travel guide. The European culture is a superb illustration of how the whole range of human abilities transcends language and geographical boundaries. No passionate traveler can resist the allure of this magnificent continent; it is more than simply another place to visit. However, the majority of the popular tourist destinations in Europe will also push travelers' financial limits. Therefore, tourists need to come up with new ideas and go to less-known but lovely European countries if they are seeking the most affordable destination to visit. Here are the cheapest 17 countries in Europe to visit in 2023.

Related: Are You Planning A Summer Trip To Europe? Here Is Where To Start

UPDATE: 2022/12/02 17:58 EST BY ROBYNNE TRUEMAN

More Affordable Countries To Visit In Europe In 2023

We want to keep all of our information and travel recommendations current to provide readers with useful tools to plan their trips. We have updated this list to include some exciting new destinations for 2023 that help backpackers get by on a budget in Europe.

17 Slovakia

Slovakia is a joy to discover since it is located in the middle of Europe. There are several intriguing historical sites and cultural icons for travelers to explore, including ancient castles and medieval villages hidden among its breathtaking surroundings. Wherever tourists walk, they will discover the country's rich history and legacy, and they will explore many local customs and traditions. Slovakia is endowed with some stunning landscapes in addition to its numerous old cities and villages, which are fascinating to visit.

16 Czech Republic

Significant cultural and historical cities and landmarks may be found in the Czech Republic, a nation that has been inscribed on the World Heritage List. Prague is by far the most well-known tourist destination in the Czech Republic. The city is often regarded as one of the most stunning capitals in the world, with a well-maintained core. The country is rich also with bewitching scenery and natural beauty.

15 Estonia

Estonia is wholly distinct, it doesn't need to fight to stand apart. The splendid allure of its capital Tallinn, designated as a UNESCO-protected Old Town, has captivated Europe visitors’ hearts. The hypnotic area is currently among the continent’s most alluring cities. In addition, Estonia's unpopulated countryside and huge tracts of woodland offer spiritual sustenance to those drawn to the outdoors in urban Europe.

14 Montenegro

Montenegro is situated at the border of the east and west. The rugged mountains of this intriguing country have the most exquisite scars from the collision and smashing of numerous civilizations. Tourists may learn about the rich cultural heritage of Montenegro from vibrantly painted Orthodox monasteries, Roman floor mosaics, Venetian stone walls, Illyrian gray castles, ornate Catholic churches, humble and minimalist mosque minarets, as well as flat socialist-style structures.

13 Slovenia

Slovenia is the perfect destination for travelers seeking ideal green and safe getaway. The country is a marvelous symphony composed of elements from four separate worlds that is evident in the cuisine, culture, and natural wonders. Everywhere tourists go, they will find breathtaking scenery and boutique experiences, whether they like to take the well-traveled pathways or veer off the beaten path.

Related: Is One Week Enough To See Europe? Here's What To Consider

12 Romania

The best 3 words to describe Romania are "authentic", "natural", and "cultural". It is a vibrant nation steeped in history, arts, and stunning scenery. There are a ton of fascinating possibilities in Romania just waiting to be found. A magnificent panorama of lofty mountains and undulating hills is dotted with imposing stone cathedrals and dazzling monasteries. While lively Bucharest is full of vitality, Transylvanian communities have lost all sense of time.

  • Top destinations: Sinaia, Oradea, Iași, and many others.
  • Budget: Approximately $60 per day

11 Hungary

Hungary, a Central Europe country, has many interesting places to visit and is easy to access from Europe due to its strategic position. The nation is home to several little, charming towns as well as low mountain ranges, wonderful rivers, beautiful lakes, vast plains, and other incredible natural features.

10 Bulgaria

Bulgaria is a diversely landscaped nation with a long history, which has left it rich in ancient culture and endowed with a beautiful natural environment. There is plenty to discover in this brave and lovely Balkan country with towering granite peaks housing magnificent mountains, enormous national parks where endangered species wander free, stretches of sandy beaches that embrace the Black Sea, along with remnants of the Soviet regime.

9 Belarus

Belarus, long considered by tourists an intriguing place, has suddenly become one of Europe's top destinations. Easy visa procedures, thriving café and art scenes, as well as friendly locals, all contribute to this surge. In addition, the capital Minsk is home to vibrant nightlife, world-class museums, and an outstanding collection of Stalin-era buildings.

8 Poland

Lovely Poland has long been known for its hospitality. Today, hotels in large cities, manors, and castles in gorgeous settings, as well as the magnificent farms and rural vineyards, provide visitors the chance to experience this heartwarming conviviality. Polish delicious cuisine is inextricably related to their hospitality. This nation offers a wide range of attractions, including stunning national parks, historic towns, and unique culture.

7 Serbia

In addition to being one of Europe's most reasonably priced travel destinations, Serbia is a bustling and raucous country that is small enough to allow travelers to experience both the urban sensuality of Belgrade and the slower pace of other towns or national parks in a matter of days. Serbia provides simple access to the diverse array of cultures and history that meet in this part of Europe.

6 Portugal

Portugal is probably the cheapest country in Western Europe. Its popular coastal city Porto is one of the most vibrant cities worth visiting in 2023, and the most convenient for budget travelers. Foodies and wine lovers often visit Porto and enjoy many of its attractions including the Cais da Ribeira and Ponte de Dom Luis I, leading to the Douro River. Some also enjoy a promenade on the riverside and admire the colorful houses, cafés, and shops. It is recommended to visit the Douro Valley, one of the world’s top wine regions, rich in history and nightlife.

  • Top destinations: Lisbon, Porto, Algarve Coast
  • Budget: Approximately $106 per day

5 Spain

Many Spanish cities are worth visiting in Europe. However, Sevilla is one of the biggest cities in Spain and the cheapest as it offers an exceptional price for what someone can get. Sevilla is much cheaper than Madrid and Barcelona, yet still has a rich culture and is home to historic and cultural landmarks.

It is recommended to visit Alcázar inspired by the Moors who ruled Spain. It was also used as a filming location for the Game of Thrones series

4 Lithuania

Visiting Lithuania may not be at the top of many people's bucket lists, but for a budget destination in Europe, it has so much to offer. Located south of Latvia, the capital of Lithuania is Vilnius, a gorgeous city with baroque architecture and a medieval Old Town. This unassuming city is a hub for arts and culture, inspiring artists for centuries. Travelers can't miss the iconic landmarks of Vilnius including the Vilnius Cathedral and St. Anne's Church.

  • Top destination: Vilnius
  • Budget: Approximately $60-79 per day

3 Albania

Albania is an up-and-coming travel destination for 2023 with beautiful beaches, epic hiking trails, and charming old towns to discover. The best part of visiting is Albania is undoubtedly how far the American dollar stretches. Budget backpackers will want to add Tirana, Ksmail, Berat, and Shkodër to their itineraries. Ksamil has gorgeous beaches while hiking in Shkodër (from Theth) is an epic adventure.

  • Top destinations: Tirana, Ksamil, Shkodër, Saranda
  • Budget: Approximately $46 per day

2 Latvia

Latvia is often overlooked in favor of its (also lesser-known) neighbor, Estonia. However, Latvia is a great destination to consider for budget travel in Europe in 2023 due to low prices and a lively, culturally rich capital city. The capital, Riga, has a historic city center and stunning Art Noveau architecture. It's also one of the greenest countries in Europe with forest covering almost 45% of the nation.

  • Top destinations: Riga, Jurmala
  • Budget: Approximately $60 per day

1 Greece

Ancient and modern Greece has a fascinating story to tell. Athens, its beautiful capital is one of the cheapest European cities to fly into in 2023, and home to the world’s oldest statues, temples and monuments. People visit this beautiful open-air museum to learn about a history that spans millennia and visit the Acropolis ancient citadel, the Temple of Zeus, the Temple of Athena Nike, and many other significant monuments.

  • Top destinations: Athens, Milos, Paros
  • Budget: Approximately $99 per day