Searching for the very best worth city breaks in Europe in 2025? You remain in luck– Eastern Europe is controling the list when again, and this most current report has actually revealed the leading 10 most affordable cities for a European escape this year. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with buddies, these locations provide unbelievable experiences without breaking the bank.
The 2025 City Costs Barometer compared the average costs for 12 crucial expenditures in 38 popular European cities. The study took a look at expenses like lodging for two nights for 2 people, public transport, meals, drinks, and leading destinations. The clear winner? Riga, Latvia, with an overall average spend of simply ₤ 252.63 (EUR295.58).
Even more interesting: 7 out of the 10 most inexpensive locations remain in Eastern Europe. Cities like Vilnius, Warsaw, Podgorica, and Krakow are not just rich in culture and history however likewise exceptionally affordable. And while Lisbon and Porto stay Western Europe’s best-value picks, there were some noteworthy drops in costs in Helsinki, Riga, Warsaw, and Amsterdam.
Let’s explore the top 10 most affordable European city breaks in 2025 and why they should have a spot on your travel list. These cheap locations in Europe were presented by the Post Office Travel Cash report.
If you remember (if not, I am telling you now), last year I provided you another report with the cheapest city breaks in the world (naturally, it depends on whether they are close to you or not, as the flights might not justify a short trip).
The conclusions in that report are very various than the ones in this barometer– so it is interesting to compare them. Last year, the most affordable city break IN THE WORLD was Timisoara– a city in Romania– while in this report, there is no city from Romania (however there are 3 from Poland in this one).
To make this report a lot more appropriate and helpful to you, I am including for each city some covert gems and an occasion to enjoy this year!
1. Riga, Latvia– ₤ 252.63 (EUR295.58)
< img src= "https://www.earthsattractions.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/latvia-riga.jpg"alt="Most affordable European City Breaks 2025"width="1280 "height= "897 "/ > Riga Riga, the capital of Latvia, ranks # 1 for affordability in 2025. A friend went to the city a few years ago, and she was pleasantly shocked by the city so I am happy to see it ranking top in this top!
Riga offers visitors an unique mix of middle ages charm and dynamic night life. Wander through the cobblestone streets of Old Town, go to the Art Nouveau district, or relax at a café along the Daugava River.
Covert gem: Do not miss out on the Riga Central Market, one of Europe’s largest, located in old Zeppelin garages. Also, think about checking out Saulkrasti Beach, located just 1 hour away, for idyllic coastal routes and quieter seaside gets away
Fall 2025 occasion: Riga International Movie Celebration (October 10– 20), showcasing Baltic and European movie theater. If you are a foodie, autumn is the season when RIGA FOOD International Trade Fair takes place (early September), showcasing food development.
2. Vilnius, Lithuania– ₤ 254.32 (EUR297.55)
< img src="https://www.earthsattractions.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/vilniusp.jpg" alt="Least expensive European City Breaks 2025 "width= "1280"height= "853"/ > Vilnius is an attractive capital with a rich baroque architectural heritage. While hotel rates have increased slightly, it still stays a leading worth destination. Explore the quirky Užupis district, a self-declared republic of artists. There are lots of fantastic things to do in Vilnius– and here is a 3-day itinerary for you.
Covert Gem: Visit the peaceful Belmontas Cultural Center, with waterfall views and cafés in a historical mill.
Fall 2025 suggestion: See throughout the Vilnius Jazz Festival (October 17– 19), among the most innovative music occasions in the Baltics. Likewise, there a beautiful Christmas Market happening in December.
3. Warsaw, Poland– ₤ 277.39 (EUR324.55)
< img src=" https://www.earthsattractions.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/wilanow-warsaw.jpg "alt=" most affordable city breaks Europe 2025"width="1280"height=" 1035 "/ > Warsaw mixes a complex history with a vibrant city environment. From the reconstructed Old Town to modern-day museums and fashionable eateries, Warsaw provides excellent value and variety. Rates have come by over 13% since last year. And as it is one of the most affordable destinations for a city break in Europe, I have the ideal travel plan for a 2-day trip in Warsaw for you!
Hidden gem: The Neon Museum, featuring Poland’s Cold War-era neon signs. You can also discover the Praga district’s artsy coffee shops and street murals.
Special event: Warsaw Fall Festival of Contemporary Music (September 20– 28).
4. Podgorica, Montenegro– ₤ 281.70 (EUR329.59)
A brand-new entry in the top 10, Podgorica offers sensational natural appeal and less crowds. Explore riverside parks, Ottoman-era bridges, and nearby white wine country. I confess, this city is a surprise for me– but it is terrific to see that brand-new cities are included in different tops, especially as one of the patterns this year is going to smaller sized, less well-known cities.
Underrated area: Lake Skadar National Forest, a short drive away, is best for birdwatching and boat tours.
Seasonal suggestion: Check out in September for the Montenegro Movie Celebration in nearby Herceg Novi. Another terrific recommendation is this: fall food festivals highlight local red wines and cheeses in close-by Berane.
5. Lisbon, Portugal– ₤ 292.27 (EUR341.96)
< img src=" https://www.earthsattractions.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/lisbon-castle.jpg "alt="Lisbon is cheapest Western European capital. Discover finest value European locations 2025 "width="1280"height ="850"/ > Lisbon continues to be the least expensive Western European capital. Walk through Alfama’s maze-like streets, take a cable car trip up the hills
, and enjoy fresh seafood by the waterfront. Lisbon is one of the best cities to check out in September, and there are a lot of things to see and do here,
including Castelo de São Jorge and Belém. Secret discover: The LX Factory, an imaginative hub of shops, restaurants, and galleries.
Don’t miss: Lisboa Games Week (October 3– 6), Portugal’s biggest video gaming expo.
6. Lille, France– ₤ 293.26 (EUR343.11)
< img src= "https://www.earthsattractions.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/lille.jpg"alt="where to go in Europe on a budget 2025. Cheapest European City Breaks 2025 barometer"width= "1280"height="836"/ > Lille Frequently eclipsed by Paris, Lille is a captivating French city with Flemish impacts– my hubby visited it and liked it a lot. Explore Grand Location, the Palais des Beaux-Arts, and regional markets.
Regional ideas: Try a gaufre (waffle) at Meert, a historic patisserie. Check Out the La Piscine Museum inside a previous Art Deco swimming pool.
Occasion to check: Braderie de Lille (early September), Europe’s largest flea market.
7. Gdansk, Poland– ₤ 297.09 (EUR347.60)
This Baltic coastal gem is perfect for a fall escape. Gdansk offers maritime history, vibrant architecture, and sandy beaches nearby.
Must-see: The WWII Museum, widely considered as one of Europe’s finest. as a covert gem, head to the European Uniformity Centre: it offers history plus modern architecture
Seasonal emphasize: St. Dominic’s Fair (late summer season) might extend into early September.
8. Kraków, Poland– ₤ 300.24 (EUR351.28)
Kraków is understood for its fairy-tale-like Old Town, Wawel Castle, and poignant historical landmarks like Auschwitz and the Jewish Quarter.
Surprise gem: The underground museum beneath the main square.
Cultural event: Unsound Festival (October 6– 13), an experimental music and art event.
9. Porto, Portugal– ₤ 304.66 (EUR356.45)
< img src= "https://www.earthsattractions.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/portugal-porto.jpg" alt="Most affordable European City Breaks 2025 "width=" 1280" height="853"/ > Porto is a beautiful riverside city popular for its port wine, azulejos, and picturesque hills. Take a river cruise or cross the Dom Luís I Bridge at sundown.
Local experience: Visit the Livraria Lello, one of the most stunning book shops in the world.
Popular events: Porto Book Fair (Aug 23– Sept 8). The São Martinho Celebration in mid-November celebrates new wine with chestnuts in cozy tasquinhas.
10. Zagreb, Croatia– ₤ 310.56 (EUR363.36)
< img src="https://www.earthsattractions.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/zagreb.jpg" alt ="Discover the cheapest European city breaks 2025"width="1280"height= "720 "/ > Zagreb Zagreb, the capital of Croatia, mixes Austro-Hungarian architecture with a lively arts and café culture. Rates are economical, and the city is great for checking out on foot. Unusual discover: Museum of Broken Relationships– quirky and thought-provoking.
Fall celebration: Zagreb Movie Festival (October 20– 27). And something for the winter: Zagreb’s Celebration of Lights in December illuminates streets and structures in a wonderful light show
(A) Conclusion
Whether you want history, culture, or relaxation, these leading 10 least expensive city breaks in Europe for 2025 deal something for every kind of traveler. From Baltic charm in Riga to wine-sipping in Porto, you can enjoy an abundant, affordable experience that fits your budget plan. Strategy clever, travel light, and enjoy Europe without the high price tag!
Naturally, these are cities that are cheap based upon some information analysis. When selecting your next location, you will take into consideration numerous other aspects– but the findings provide you many ideas of new locations to go to (and cultures to find!).
