Fall is the ultimate season for a European city break, no doubt about that, but is an extra transatlantic getaway in the shoulder season financially feasible?
The short answer is yes, but there’s a caveat.
You have to be extra mindful when it comes to choosing your destination – Paris, London, and Zurich are all lovely, but they’ll definitely drain your travel budget, which is why you’ll want to opt for something more low-key instead.
The good news is that if you’re lacking inspiration, you might find some right here.
Air DNA just came out with a report on Europe’s fastest-growing travel hubs, and surprise, surprise – each country that made it to the top 5 is a budget-friendly haven.
So without further ado, let’s dive into some of Europe’s best-value destinations and why you’ll want to add at least one of them to your bucket list:
5. Lithuania
Lithuania has long been one of Europe’s most underrated gems, and as someone who’s been lucky enough to experience Vilnius, the gorgeous capital, a couple of years back, I’m happy to see that the country is finally getting the recognition it deserves.
Between its medieval history, picturesque landscapes, and surprisingly active nightlife, Lithuania will probably exceed all your expectations with how diverse and well-rounded a destination it is.
Of course, you’ll want to start your trip here in Vilnius, where you’ll explore the famous Old Town (one of the largest surviving medieval settlements in Europe), complete with the Gediminas Tower, Vilnius Cathedral, and the Republic of Užupis.
Gorgeous hotels in the area hover around the $65-a-night mark, with this one being one of my personal favorites.
4. Bosnia And Herzegovina
Balkan is easily Europe’s most overlooked region, and no one can convince me otherwise.
Just take a look at Bosnia and Herzegovina, a country so steeped in history and culture that it rivals even far pricier (and better-known) places like Czechia or even Austria.
Sarajevo is a must-see.
Here, you’ll get to take in the most incredible mix of Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Yugoslav influences just by walking through the quaint streets of Baščaršija, and of course, you’ll want to make your way to the iconic Latin Bridge, where Archduke Franz Ferdinand was assassinated, triggering a chain of events that led to World War I.
History buffs will also fall in love with Mostar, whose 16th-century Ottoman bridge and charming guesthouses will make you feel like you’ve been transported to a whole other era.
Before you go, though, don’t forget to try a cup of traditional Bosnian coffee for roughly $1 right in the Old Town – it doesn’t get much better than that.
3. Albania
While Albania has seen a meteoric rise in popularity these past couple of years, it seems like its growth is far from over.
More and more people are discovering how gorgeous, reasonably priced, and surprisingly diverse the once-overlooked country is.
Between the vibrant city scene of Tirana, the jaw-dropping beaches of Saranda, the UNESCO-listed ruins of Butrint, and the winter town vibe of Korça, you’re guaranteed an amazing time here year round.
And as someone who’s traveled solo through most of the country, I’ll be the first to tell you that despite what you might’ve heard online, this is one of the safest countries you’ll ever visit, so definitely consider it for your next European getaway.
2. Moldova
We’re stepping out of the Balkans for a minute (at least according to the most widely accepted definitions of the region) to go to Moldova, a tiny country located right in between Romania and Ukraine known for its stunning countryside views and even better food.
That doesn’t mean you won’t get to experience a typical European city here, though.
Chișinău, while not as flashy as most other capitals across the continent is still a beautiful city that not only offers plenty to see and do but also promises some of the best prices you’ve ever come across – think hotels that charge $35 a night and restaurant meals that cost less than $10 per person.
1. Kosovo
We’re ending things off with a bang, since Kosovo, Europe’s youngest country (which declared its independence in 2008) is also officially its fastest-growing destination, and as someone who’s had the chance to explore some of its most popular hotspots, it’s easy to see why.
For city trippers, I’d recommend none other than Pristina, the beautiful yet affordable capital where meals rarely cost more than $8 per person, and the lively café culture will help you get closer to the welcoming locals.
Nature lovers, on the other hand, will fall in love with the Rugova Canyon, where you can hike, climb, and even go zip-lining.
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