Europe is beautiful in the spring and summer months. Temperatures are warm but mild, and the weather is generally quite pleasant. This makes it a great time to get out and explore new places and see all of the marvelous sights. Instead of wasting your time stuck in the crowds to see the same old places, check out some of the better and cheaper, although lesser-known destinations in Europe.
Lucca, Italy
While Florence and Pisa are favorite stops in Tuscany, Lucca may be a better option. You still get Medieval through Renaissance architecture and amazing culinary and wine options, but there is so much more. Lucca has ancient Roman remains, a museum dedicated to Puccini, and quaint shops to explore to your heart’s content.
Porto, Portugal
Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city, offers history, beauty, and affordability. Wander its riverside Ribeira district, admire tiled facades, and enjoy local pastries. With budget-friendly transport, food, and lodging, it’s a great alternative to Lisbon. Be sure to visit Livraria Lello, a striking bookstore linked to Harry Potter lore.
Kraków, Poland
Kraków, Poland’s historic gem, offers medieval charm, a vibrant market square, and poignant sites like the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum. Explore Wawel Castle, the Wieliczka Salt Mine, and St. Mary’s Basilica. Kraków is ideal for budget travelers with low-cost stays, cheap eats, and free attractions. Don’t miss the Wieliczka Salt Mine.
Salzburg, Austria
Mozart’s birthplace, Salzburg, Austria, charms visitors with Baroque architecture, alpine views, and rich musical history. Visit Hohensalzburg Fortress and enjoy local cuisine. Though pricier in peak season, it’s cheaper than Vienna. Stay outside the center, join free walking tours, and explore the beautiful Salzburg Lake District for a more budget-friendly adventure.
Plovdiv, Bulgaria
Plovdiv, one of Europe’s oldest cities, offers ancient Roman landmarks, colorful architecture in the Old Town, and a lively arts scene in the Kapana district. With low-cost accommodations, traditional Bulgarian food, and free sites like the Roman Stadium, it’s an accessible and culturally rich destination for all travelers.
Bucharest, Romania
Bucharest comes alive in spring, with blooming magnolias and flowing fountains. Explore a city marked by both Communist-era and Belle Epoque architecture. Wander the lively Lipscani district, enjoy affordable cafes, and visit serene spots like Herastrau Park and Stavropoleos Monastery. Don’t miss the stunning Carturesti Carusel bookstore.
Tirana, Albania
Tirana, Albania’s energetic capital, has colorful streets, lots of history, and a thriving café and nightlife scene. Visit Skanderbeg Square, explore communist-era museums like BunkArt, and relax by the city’s artificial lake. With vibrant food, green spaces, and easy day trips to nearby towns, Tirana is full of surprises at budget-friendly prices.
Thessaloniki, Greece
Thessaloniki, Greece’s second city, offers history, culture, and coastal charm at a lower cost than Athens. Visit landmarks like the White Tower, Rotunda, and Arch of Galerius, and enjoy fresh seafood and street food. Take a boat ride or explore Mount Olympus for a mix of city and nature.
Český Krumlov, Czech Republic
Český Krumlov, is a UNESCO-listed town in the Czech Republic. It is enchanting with its medieval charm, riverside castle, and vibrant Baroque architecture. Stroll cobbled streets, visit the castle gardens, and dine on Czech cuisine. With low-cost stays and free sights, it’s a picturesque and affordable escape into the Bohemian countryside.
Riga, Latvia
Riga is among Europe’s most affordable cities and has a lovely Old Town with narrow alleys, unique markets, and striking architecture like the House of the Blackheads and Swedish Gate. Enjoy free live music in Dome Square, and experience the city from the water by renting a paddleboard on the Daugava River.
Nantes, France
From April to June, Ile de Nantes hosts the Printemps des Nefs festival, featuring performances and workshops, many free to attend. Visit Machines de l’Ile to see mechanical creations, walk through Passage Pommeraye, explore the Jules Verne Museum, and follow the Le Voyage à Nantes art trail from the city to the ocean.
Valencia, Spain
For the best beaches in Europe at a great price, Valencia stands out. Spain’s third-largest city offers beautiful sandy shores alongside the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences. Enjoy authentic paella, affordable accommodations, free bike rentals, and plenty of green spaces—all while spending less than in Madrid or Barcelona.
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest, Hungary’s capital, features historic thermal baths, fabulous architecture, and lively ruin pubs. Visit Buda Castle, relax at Szechenyi Bath, and enjoy Hungarian dishes. Known for its affordability, the city offers budget accommodations, free walking tours, and reasonably priced attractions like the Parliament and Danube cruises.
Ljubljana, Slovenia
Ljubljana, Slovenia’s capital, sits along the Ljubljanica River. It offers visitors a charming Old Town and green hills. Visit Ljubljana Castle, relax in Tivoli Park, and enjoy local cuisine. With affordable lodging, free walking tours, and budget-friendly activities like kayaking and hiking, it offers an array of city and nature experiences.
Gotland, Sweden
Gotland, the largest Baltic Sea island, offers stunning landscapes, rich history, and tasty local food. Its capital, Visby, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval towns. Beyond Visby, the island features caves, sandy beaches, forests, and lagoons, making it a peaceful and beautiful destination year-round, especially in summer.
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