Following a consideration for travel to Europe and your budget, the Schengen travel visa permits you to get into 27 states rich in natural beauty, culture, and history. The good news? Certain Schengen states come cheap to tourists, with accommodation low-priced, public transport cheap, and food delicious but less expensive.
Here are the 10 best Schengen countries where you can enjoy a European trip on a reasonable budget!
Poland
An underrated Gem for inexpensive travels, the country of Poland is one of the most affordable destinations in the Schengen Zone. It comes with cheap lodging and low-cost public transport. At the same time, cities such as Krakow and Warsaw are historic and cultural centers with days on which entrance into museums is free. Guests can have a meal in a nearby restaurant for US$ 5–7, which provides an excellent option for a budget traveler.
Budget Tip: Choose trams and buses instead of taxis to save money.
Hungary
Amazing Architecture at an Affordable price, this capital city of Hungary is often referenced to as the “Paris of the East”. It costs much less than cities in Western Europe. Touring queenly castles or taking a dip in thermal baths can cost just a little under 10 Euros. While a budget tour on a Danube river cruise is also payable.
Financial Tip: Buy a Budapest card that allows you to travel on all public transport with discounts on attractions.
Portugal
Sun and lovely landscapes Portugal offers up Mediterranean flair at a low cost when compared to Spain just next door. Lisbon and Porto are budget-friendly cities that offer good public transport, cheap yet scrumptious street food. Don’t miss them–a pastel de nata for 1 Euro, and plenty of free attractions to enjoy.
Budget Tip: Don’t use taxis; take cheap Lisbon metro to explore the city.
Greece
Affordable Dream Destination Greece is widely known for its beautiful islands and rich history, but it is also a very affordable vacation destination. Activities such as budget-friendly hostels exist in Athens while reasonably priced access to historic attractions persists. Islandless favorites of female travelers such as Crete and Naxos offer affordable lodgings. Travel in the off-season, April-May or September-October, for budget-friendly trips.
Slovakia
In Slovakia, nature and history provide alternative budget options. Slovakia is among the cheapest Schengen countries, offering beautiful castles, historic towns, and stunning landscapes. The capital city Bratislava is a charming compact city with options for low-cost food and lodging. You will also learn about the High Tatras mountains without breaking the bank. Use free walking tours in Bratislava to learn all about its history.
Latvia
Latvia is affordable Baltic charm. Riga would be the capital of Latvia that could be their undiscovered jewel because it has affordable accommodation, affordable meals, and architectural beauty. This country is famous for its stunning beaches, national parks, and historic towns but at a much lower price than Western Europe. Try Riga’s central market for some cheap, fresh, local produce.
Lithuania
For the budget traveler, Lithuania is the Baltic getaway for very cheap. Lithuania is another Baltic state in terms of value for money. The capital city, Vilnius, has a fantastic old town, affordable hostels, and many sights that come free. The Hill of Crosses is a must-see; it would not charge entrance. A number of museums in Vilnius have free admission on certain days of the month.
Estonia
Estonia, the affordable paradise for digital nomads. Estonia happens to be another beautiful, cheap yet tech-savvy Schengen country. The capital city Tallinn possesses a historic old town, unlike other cheaper grub food that relies on its natural charm and forests, ideal for the outdoor type with activities on the cheap side. Be sure to use the Tallinn Card for free public transport while also getting discounts for select sites.
Czech Republic
The Czech Republic, and in particular Prague, is one of the cheapest places to visit with a Schengen visa. Splendid fairy-tale architecture, cheap beer, and reasonable street food about trdelník are but a few of what the city of Prague has to offer. It has affordable public transport that is accessible.
Budget Tip: Choose hostels or cheaper hotels on the outskirts of the city rather than central to save on accommodation.
Spain
Though an expensive place, southern Spain provides the best opportunities for cost-effective travelers. In Granada, for instance, free tapas and very cheap entrance fees to historical places and sunshine bathing by the Mediterranean won’t rob one of his/her cash.
Budget Tip: Ask restaurants for the Menu del Día for an inexpensive complete meal.
Traveling around Europe with a Schengen travel visa doesn’t have to be expensive! By budgeting wisely, choosing cheap Schengen countries, and following money-saving travel tips, one can have an amazing adventure through Europe on a small budget.