Europe in the summer can often be described as tourist soup!
It sometimes feels like there are more Americans in Europe in the peak vacation season than there are Americans left in the U.S.
But despite Europe’s seemingly endless popularity, it’s not always the most affordable place to visit. And I’ve got the empty bank account to prove it!
But it doesn’t have to be that way.
New research by eTurbo News has looked at hotel costs, expenses, and travel costs to uncover the 5 cheapest European capital cities right now:
5. Podgorica, Montenegro
Podgorica is a fascinating city famed for its architecture, 4 rivers, and thriving cultural scene.
It is considered the gateway to wider Montenegro, but despite this relatively few tourists choose to visit the city.
Some of the best things to do in Podgorica are free. This includes visiting the Orthodox Temple of Christ’s Resurrection, a cathedral that sits in the heart of the city and exploring the Nijagara Waterfall. (Not to be confused with the similarly named Niagara falls!)
This is a beautiful waterfall that sits on one of the city’s four rivers, and is a short walk from its heart, making it an unusual escape from the bustle of the city.
Podgorica is an affordable travel destination, and according to the eturbo news report, the average daily spend for tourists in the city is just $44.19. You can expect to spend $160.44 on average for 5 nights of accommodation.
4. Chisinau, Moldova
Chisinau is one of the most green and verdant cities on this list and it is also a wonderfully compact, neat, and walkable city.
Despite gaining independence in 1991, Chisinau still has a very Soviet feel.
You’ll find a lot of Soviet-style architecture here, as well as some neoclassical structures. So why should you visit?
Highlights of the city include the Chisinau City History Museum.
This has a beautiful 360-degree vantage point of the city and is a great place to learn more about this interesting but complicated history of Chisinau.
According to Eturbo News you should allow for an average $39.12 daily expenditure in Chisinau and you should expect an average hotel rate of $174.10 per person for a five-night stay.
3. Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Sarajevo is another fascinating European capital city with a complicated history.
It is sometimes referred to as the “Jerusalem of Europe” thanks to its cultural and religious diversity.
The city boasts a stunning Old Town with a rich history. Here you can explore Baščaršija, which is Sarajevo’s old bazaar and packed full of shops and restaurants.
Then take a wander across the beautiful Latin Bridge which was constructed during the Ottoman period.
Sarajevo experienced a devastating siege and genocide in the 1990s, and much of the city feels like a living museum dedicated to this tragedy.
Learn more by visiting the Tunnel of Hope, which was used to smuggle food and guns into the city. Entry costs 10 KM ($5.70) per person.
Expect to spend an average of $35.99 on your day-to-day expenses and allow an average of $195.56 per person for a 5-night hotel stay.
2. Skopje, North Macedonia
Skopje is one of the least visited European cities, but despite this, it’s still packed full of things to see and do.
Beautiful buildings, sculptures, bridges, and fountains attract history buffs and culture vultures alike.
Visit the imposing Skopje Fortress, which is free to entry and is located at the highest vantage point of the city, offering epic views.
Skopje was the birthplace of Mother Theresa, and the Mother Theresa memorial house is based in the home she lived in from 1910 to 1928.
It is dedicated to her life and work and is a niche but fascinating place to explore. Entry is free of charge.
As the second most affordable European capital, you’ll need to allow an average of $34.61 per day for your expenses here.
Accommodation is just $131.02 per person for a 5-night stay, on average.
1. Pristina, Kosovo
Pristina is considered the hidden gem of the Balkans and is the cheapest European capital, according to the report, making it a great spot for travelers on a tight budget.
The city has a vibrant and youthful feel, with great nightlife, a thriving arts scene, and a bustling cafe culture.
The Great Mosque, The Serbian Orthodox Monastery, and the Cathedral of St Mother Theresa are all iconic attractions.
If you only do one thing in Pristina then make sure you visit the The National University Library of Kosovo.
This is not just an ordinary library; it is an architectural feat.
Croatian architect Andrija Mutnjaković designed it, and it is considered one of the world’s ugliest buildings, though I like its modern, angular feel!
Pristina is officially the most affordable European capital. For a five-night hotel stay, allocate $32.07 per night for your expenses and $150.90 per person on average.
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