Who said budget travel has to be drab or boring?

Ask any seasoned traveler, and they’ll tell you that Europe is filled with gorgeous, wallet-friendly places that just so happen to be overshadowed by the Parises and Londons of the world – actually, I’ll do you one better.

Don’t ask anyone, just take a look at the latest ranking of the best, cheapest European cities to visit this summer released by Stasher.

The global luggage storage company conducted a metanalysis in search of the Old Continent’s best-value destinations, and the findings were based on expenses like flights, accommodation, food, and local transportation.

5. Prague, Czech Republic

View of Prague

The Czech Republic capital is hands-down one of the most gorgeous cities I’ve ever seen in my life, and the fact that it made it to this list, even as no. 5, speaks volumes about how much value the city has to offer its visitors.

And while it might not be your typical summer hub, those looking to avoid the sweltering heat this season will find Prague to be the perfect escape – after all, you don’t want to overheat during those sightseeing tours through Charles Bridge, the Astronomical Clock, and the iconic Prague Castle.

But how much can you actually expect to spend here?

You’ll find a detailed breakdown below:

  • Average round-trip ticket from the U.S. – $700
  • One night at a 3-star hotel – $65
  • A quick meal for one – $10
  • One public transport ticket – $1.3
  • One-mile taxi ride – $2
  • Entry fee to the average attraction – $15

Average cost per day (excluding travel) – $115

4. Riga, Latvia

Aerial view of Riga

Moving on to a far lesser-known gem, Riga welcomes travelers this summer with its stunning Art Nouveau architecture, rich history, and surprisingly lively cultural scene.

Best of all, you’ll get to experience the Latvian capital’s incredible allure for just under $100 this summer, here’s how:

Average round-trip ticket from the U.S. – $715

  • One night at a 3-star hotel – $50
  • A quick meal for one – $12
  • One public transport ticket – $1.6
  • One-mile taxi ride – $1.7
  • Entry fee to the average attraction – $9

Average cost per day (excluding travel) – $98

3. Warsaw, Poland

Warsaw Old Town, Poland

Next up, we have yet another underrated gem and solo traveler haven – Warsaw.

The Polish capital’s Old Town, complete with the Royal Castle, Market Square, and  St. John’s Cathedral, is like something straight out of a book, not to mention extremely cheap to explore.

Here’s what your Warsaw travel budget will look like:

  • Average round-trip ticket from the U.S. – $730
  • One night at a 3-star hotel – $45
  • A quick meal for one – $11
  • One public transport ticket – $1.1
  • One-mile taxi ride – $1.2
  • Entry fee to the average attraction – $12

Average cost per day (excluding travel) – $92

2. Bucharest, Romania

Bucharest, Romania

Coming in at No. 2 is none other than Bucharest, a city so steeped in culture and history that it gives, in my humble opinion, Prague and Vienna a run for their money.

Here, you’ll get to see the iconic Palace of the Parliament (the heaviest building in the world), the Romanian Athenaeum, and the Cismigiu Gardens, and what you’ll have to pay in return will stun you.

Here’s a breakdown of the costs:

  • Average round-trip ticket from the U.S. – $840
  • One night at a 3-star hotel – $40
  • A quick meal for one – $10
  • One public transport ticket – $0.7
  • One-mile taxi ride – $1.1
  • Entry fee to the average attraction – $8

Average cost per day (excluding travel) – $82

1. Krakow, Poland

Krakow, Poland

While somewhat lesser-known than the other destinations that made it to today’s list, Krakow has still managed to make a name for itself as Europe’s best budget-friendly destination, and today, it has once again reclaimed the coveted title.

But how much will you actually get to save by coming to this gorgeous Polish hub?

Let’s go over a mock budget, shall we?

Average round-trip ticket from the U.S. – $770

  • One night at a 3-star hotel – $45
  • A quick meal for one – $8
  • One public transport ticket – $1.2
  • One-mile taxi ride – $1.6
  • Entry fee to the average attraction – $8

Average cost per day (excluding travel) – $80

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