10 Most Affordable European Cities to Travel To in 2025

If you dream of a European adventure in 2025 without burning a hole in your pocket, you’re in luck! Europe is home to countless charming, culture-rich cities that won’t drain your savings. From medieval towns to modern metropolises, you can explore history, cuisine, and local life at budget-friendly prices. Plus, with the convenience of an eSIM for each destination, staying connected while hopping across borders has never been easier or more affordable.

Let’s dive into the 10 most affordable European cities to travel to in 2025, complete with tips for budget travel and how eSIMs can keep you seamlessly connected.

1. Krakow, Poland

Krakow is a vibrant gem of Central Europe, offering cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and an electric cultural scene. The cost of living remains low, making Krakow a budget traveler’s paradise.

Budget Highlights:

• Affordable accommodations in charming guesthouses.
• Inexpensive yet hearty Polish cuisine.
• Free walking tours of the Old Town.
• Low-cost public transport.

eSIM for Poland: Stay connected with a Poland eSIM, perfect for navigating Krakow’s winding streets, booking excursions to Auschwitz or the Wieliczka Salt Mine, and sharing your adventures in real time.

2. Budapest, Hungary

Budapest delivers stunning architecture, relaxing thermal baths, and a rich cultural experience at a fraction of Western European prices.

Budget Highlights:

• Thermal bath entries start as low as €5.
• Affordable ruin bars and vibrant nightlife.
• Cheap public transportation and walkable neighborhoods.

eSIM for Hungary: With an eSIM for Hungary, you can easily locate the best baths, check metro schedules, and stream your sunset shots over the Danube without worrying about roaming charges.

3. Sofia, Bulgaria

Sofia combines history, nature, and affordability. Nestled at the foot of Mount Vitosha, the city offers urban charm alongside hiking adventures.

Budget Highlights:

• Very affordable local meals.
• Budget-friendly accommodations and hostels.
• Free walking tours of the city.

eSIM for Bulgaria: A Bulgaria eSIM ensures you stay online while discovering ancient ruins, hiking to Boyana Waterfall, or checking directions to the stunning Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.

4. Bucharest, Romania

Known as the “Paris of the East,” Bucharest is an affordable capital with grand architecture, lush parks, and a thriving cafe culture.

Budget Highlights:

• Affordable cafes and hearty Romanian dishes.
• Cheap intercity trains for day trips.
• Budget-friendly museums and attractions.

eSIM for Romania: Travel seamlessly with an eSIM for Romania, perfect for finding hidden gems like the Village Museum or snapping photos of the stunning Palace of the Parliament.

5. Belgrade, Serbia

Belgrade is an energetic city on the rise, known for its nightlife, historical fortresses, and warm hospitality.

Budget Highlights:

• Affordable riverside dining.
• Cheap local buses and trams.
• Free walking tours of historic sites.

eSIM for Serbia: Stay connected with an eSIM for Serbia to navigate Belgrade’s eclectic neighborhoods, find the best nightlife spots, and share your Danube river sunsets instantly.

6. Vilnius, Lithuania

Vilnius charms visitors with its baroque architecture, cozy cafes, and a bohemian spirit, all at a traveler-friendly cost.

Budget Highlights:

• Inexpensive local dishes like cepelinai.
• Budget flights and accommodations.
• Free Old Town walking tours.

eSIM for Lithuania: Use an eSIM for Lithuania to effortlessly explore Užupis, Vilnius’s artistic republic, and stay in touch while admiring the city’s picturesque skyline.

7. Riga, Latvia

Riga, the capital of Latvia, is a stunning blend of Gothic spires and modern flair, offering great value for travelers seeking culture and affordability.

Budget Highlights:

• Affordable public transport and bike rentals.
• Inexpensive local beers and dining.
• Budget-friendly museums and cultural sites.

eSIM for Latvia: Stay connected with an eSIM for Latvia, ideal for navigating Riga’s streets, finding hidden art nouveau gems, and keeping your socials updated with scenic shots of the Daugava River.

8. Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Sarajevo is a cultural crossroads, offering a fascinating blend of Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Yugoslav influences at incredibly low prices.

Budget Highlights:

• Affordable traditional meals like ćevapi.
• Inexpensive accommodation in charming guesthouses.
• Budget-friendly public transport.

eSIM for Bosnia and Herzegovina: Stay online with an eSIM for Bosnia and Herzegovina to easily explore historic bazaars, book tours to the Tunnel of Hope, and share your stories from this resilient city.

9. Tbilisi, Georgia

Tbilisi offers ancient charm, hospitable locals, and delicious cuisine, all wrapped in affordability. Georgia’s relaxed visa policy and budget-friendly nature make it a rising star.

Budget Highlights:

• Affordable guesthouses and homestays.
• Delicious Georgian feasts at low prices.
• Cheap wine tours and countryside trips.

eSIM for Georgia: Use an eSIM for Georgia to navigate Tbilisi’s winding alleys, book day trips to the Caucasus Mountains, and stay connected as you enjoy traditional supra feasts.

10. Porto, Portugal

Porto, famous for its riverside beauty and port wine, is a more affordable alternative to Lisbon while still offering rich experiences.

Budget Highlights:

• Budget-friendly accommodations.
• Affordable port wine tastings.
• Inexpensive tram rides and walking tours.

eSIM for Portugal: With an eSIM for Portugal, you can navigate Porto’s hills with ease, share your Douro Valley views, and book last-minute river cruises without searching for Wi-Fi.

Final Tips for Affordable European Travel in 2025

• Book in Advance: Early bookings for flights and accommodations often come with significant savings.
• Travel Off-Season: Shoulder months like April-May and September-October offer lower prices and fewer crowds.
• Use eSIMs: eSIMs eliminate the hassle of buying local SIM cards and keep you connected across multiple countries without high roaming fees.
• Public Transportation: Embrace buses, trams, and trains for affordable and authentic travel experiences.
• Local Cuisine: Eat where the locals do to enjoy authentic and budget-friendly meals.

With the right planning and tools like eSIMs, Europe is more accessible than ever. Whether you’re exploring medieval streets in Krakow or enjoying the lively energy of Belgrade, affordable adventures await across the continent in 2025.