Top 10 European capitals with cheapest hotel accommodation

🔸 Introduction: why these capitals are so cheap - accommodation, food, attractions

Each capital has its own character, from elegant boulevards to narrow streets full of local color. But not all attract tourists with high prices. In some European capitals it is possible to visit, sleep and eat for a fraction of what you would pay in well-known metropolises. What sets them apart? Affordable hotel prices, cheap dining and easily accessible attractions - often free or for symbolic amounts.

For good reason, these are the cities that are increasingly chosen by conscious travelers. They offer the perfect combination of an interesting cultural experience and reasonable costs. For many, it's a chance to discover lesser-known destinations without straining the budget.

In this listing you will find 10 European capitals that let you travel more cheaply without sacrificing quality. Each of these cities has something unique - and they all prove that a city break doesn't have to ruin your wallet.

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🔸 Ranking methodology: where did the data come from and how were the costs calculated?

To prepare a reliable ranking of the cheapest European capitals in terms of accommodation, we needed up-to-date data, clear criteria and a uniform way of comparing cities. Here is what the step-by-step methodology looked like:

📊 Data sources
The ranking is based on the report Post Office City Costs Barometer 2025, which analyzes the total cost of short stays in European cities. It was also supported by data from Booking.com, TripAdvisor and official city and travel websites.

🏨 What did we count?
We took into account:
✔️ average price of 2 nights in a 3★ hotel for 2 people,
✔️ cost of 3 meals a day,
✔️ coffee, wine, public transport and museum tickets,
✔️ total cost of weekend stay (2 days / 2 people).

📉 What was not included?
🚫 We did not count the prices of hostels, apartments or accommodation outside the center,
🚫 Transportation costs to the city (e.g., flight or train) are not included,
🚫 Seasonal promotions and last-minute offers were omitted.

🌍 Which cities were ranked?
We have included only capitals of european countries, which were included in the Post Office report or had available, comparable accommodation data.
❌ Cities that are not capitals (e.g., Krakow, Porto) were excluded, even if they had low costs.

📅 Time range
The data are from Q1 2025 and reflect current prices for the spring season. The ranking also takes into account changes relative to 2024 - including price increases for accommodations in Central and Eastern European cities.

Thanks to this approach, the summary remains clear, up-to-date and useful for those planning a cheap city break in one of Europe's capitals.

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🔟 Tallinn (Estonia) - affordable accommodation and medieval charm

Tallinn is Estonia's capital, which combines medieval history with a modern lifestyle. Its charming cobblestone streets of the Old Town (UNESCO) attract tourists craving an authentic atmosphere, while the city offers affordable accommodation and dining.

🏰 Old Town - one of the best-preserved medieval centers in Europe, full of cafes, galleries and historic churches.
🚶‍♀️ Walking paths along the bay - Picturesque views and fresh air in close proximity to the center.
🍲 Cheap local cuisine and cafes - Fresh fish, soups and traditional Estonian dishes at reasonable prices.
🚋 Public transport - Easy access to all attractions, tickets available at favorable prices.
🛏️ Accommodation - A wide selection of 3★ hotels and hostels at good quality and affordable prices, especially during the low season.

💵 Approximate prices in USD (for 2 people, 2 days):

• Overnight stay at a 3★ hotel: about $120-160 per night.
• Dinner at a restaurant: USD 10-20 per person
• Coffee or dessert: $3-6
• Public transportation ticket: USD 2-3 per ride
• Museum admission ticket: 8-15 USD

🏨 Recommended places to stay:

1. Hotel St. Barbara - An intimate hotel in the center of the Old Town, warm atmosphere and good breakfasts.
2. Hestia Hotel Europa - A modern hotel near the center, with comfortable rooms and a gym.
3. Solo Sokos Hotel Estoria - A luxurious, stylish hotel with a convenient location on City Hall Square.
4. Tallinn Backpackers - A low-cost hostel ideal for travelers on a tight budget.
5. Swissôtel Tallinn - An elegant hotel with a beautiful view of the city, a swimming pool and a spa.

Tallinn is the perfect place for people who want to experience the Nordic climate and history without spending a fortune on accommodation or food.

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9️⃣ Budapest (Hungary) - history, thermal baths and affordable prices

Budapest, picturesquely located on the Danube River, is one of Central Europe's most attractive yet affordable cities. Hungary's capital offers a rich historical heritage, famous thermal baths and lively cafes and restaurants.

🏰 Royal Castle and Castle Hill - The historic heart of the city with beautiful views of the Danube River and Parliament.
♨️ Széchenyi Thermal Baths - some of the largest thermal baths in Europe, available at an affordable price.
🌉 Chain Bridge - symbol of the city and a great place to walk between Buda and Pest.
🍽️ Traditional Hungarian cuisine - Goulash, langosz and Tokaj wine available at reasonable prices.
🚋 Urban transport - A well-developed network of streetcars, subways and buses with cheap tickets.

💵 Approximate prices in USD (for 2 people, 2 days):

• Overnight stay at a 3★ hotel: about $90-130 per night.
• Dinner at a restaurant: USD 7-15 per person
• Coffee or dessert: $2-4
• Public transportation ticket: US$1.5-2 per ride
• Admission ticket to the thermal baths: 15-20 USD

🏨 Recommended places to stay:

1. Hotel Central Basilica - A comfortable hotel in the center of Pest.
2. Danubius Hotel Astoria - A classic hotel with tradition, close to the main attractions.
3. Bo18 Hotel Superior - A modern, eco-friendly hotel with a good location.
4. Hostel One Budapest - A cheap and friendly hostel for younger tourists.
5. Corinthia Hotel Budapest - A luxury hotel with a wide range of spas and restaurants.

Budapest is a great option for those looking for a combination of history, relaxation and a cheap stay in a capital city full of life and culture.

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8️⃣ Sofia (Bulgaria) - history, culture and very affordable prices

Sofia, Bulgaria's capital, is one of the oldest cities in Europe, where ancient ruins and Byzantine churches blend with modern architecture. The city is increasingly popular with tourists looking for an authentic atmosphere and low cost of stay.

⛪ St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral - An impressive Orthodox church and symbol of Sofia, a must-see on your tour.
🏛️ National Museum of Bulgarian History - A rich archaeological and ethnographic collection.
🌳 Borisov Gradina Park - The largest park in the city, ideal for walking and relaxing.
🍲 Local restaurants and cafes - Delicious Bulgarian dishes at very affordable prices.
🚇 Public transport - A well-developed subway and bus network, with cheap ticket fares.

💵 Approximate prices in USD (for 2 people, 2 days):

• Overnight stay at a 3★ hotel: about $80-120 per night.
• Dinner at a restaurant: USD 5-12 per person
• Coffee or dessert: $1.5-4
• Public transportation ticket: 1-2 USD per ride
• Museum entrance ticket: USD 3-8

🏨 Recommended places to stay:

1. Sense Hotel Sofia - A modern hotel in the center with high standards and a spa.
2. Central Hotel Sofia - A comfortable and well-rated hotel close to attractions.
3. Anel Hotel - An elegant hotel with a swimming pool and fitness center.
4. Mostel Hostel - A cheap and atmospheric hostel for younger tourists.
5. Grand Hotel Sofia - A luxury hotel with an excellent location and amenities.

Sofia is an excellent choice for travelers looking for an affordable yet full of attractions city where history meets modernity.

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7️⃣ Riga (Latvia) - the charm of the former Hanseatic metropolis and affordable prices

Riga is the largest city in the Baltics, known for its beautiful Art Nouveau architecture and atmospheric UNESCO-listed Old Town. Latvia's capital combines a rich history with a vibrant cultural life, while offering favorable prices for tourists.

🏰 Old Town (Vecrīga) - full of cobblestone streets, historic houses and atmospheric cafes.
🎭 House of the Blackfraternity - An impressive Gothic building with a rich history.
🌉 Bridges over the Dvina River - scenic viewpoints and a popular walking spot.
🍽️ Central Market - the largest bazaar under the historic hangars, with local specialties and cheap cuisine.
🌿 Bastejkalna Park - A green oasis in the center of the city ideal for relaxation.
🎶 Spikeri district - full of galleries, clubs and restaurants with an industrial vibe.

💵 Approximate prices in USD (for 2 people, 2 days):

• Overnight stay at a 3★ hotel: about $90-140 per night.
• Dinner at a restaurant: USD 7-15 per person
• Coffee or dessert: $2-5
• Public transportation ticket: US$2 per ride
• Museum admission ticket: USD 5-10

🏨 Recommended places to stay:

1. Hotel Bergs - A luxury boutique hotel in the center of Riga.
2. Wellton Centrum Hotel & Spa - Comfort and SPA close to the Old Town.
3. Radi un Draugi Hotel - An intimate hotel with traditional Latvian hospitality.
4. Rixwell Old Riga Palace Hotel - comfortable rooms in the heart of the city.
5. City Hostel Riga - A budget option for tourists looking to save money.

Riga is a great choice for those looking to combine culture and history with affordable accommodation and food.

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6️⃣ Vilnius (Lithuania) - history, culture and affordability

Vilnius is a capital city full of historical monuments, charming streets and a multicultural atmosphere. The UNESCO-listed Old Town impresses with its architecture and atmosphere, yet is affordable for tourists who want to experience Lithuanian history and culture without spending a lot.

⛪ Old Town - the largest medieval old town in Eastern Europe, full of churches, monasteries and palaces.
🎨 MO Museum of Contemporary Art - A modern cultural space for art lovers.
🍽️ Cafes and restaurants - From traditional Lithuanian dishes to international cuisine, prices are very competitive.
🌳 Bernardine Park and Castle Hill - places ideal for walking and enjoying the city skyline.
🏰 Gediminas Castle - A symbol of Vilnius and a vantage point for the entire city.

💵 Approximate prices in USD (for 2 people, 2 days):

• Overnight stay at a 3★ hotel: about US$100-140 per night.
• Dinner at a restaurant: USD 8-18 per person
• Coffee or dessert: $2-5
• Public transportation ticket: US$1.5-2.5 per ride
• Museum admission ticket: USD 5-12

🏨 Recommended places to stay:

1. Hotel Vilnius City - A modern hotel in the center, with friendly staff and good reviews.
2. Artis Centrum Hotels - A stylish hotel in the historic part of the city, close to the main attractions.
3. Comfort Hotel LT - Rock 'n' Roll Vilnius - An informal, atmospheric hotel with a musical touch.
4. Jamaika Hostel - Affordable and friendly hostel ideal for younger tourists.
5. Radisson Blu Hotel Lietuva - A luxurious option with a convenient location on the Vilena River.

Vilnius is a great place for inexpensive sightseeing with a heavy dose of history, art and good cuisine at affordable prices.

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5️⃣ Warsaw (Poland) - dynamic capital city with attractive prices

Looking for information about Warsaw? Please visit to read articles related to the Polish capital! 🏙️

Warsaw is a vibrant Polish capital where modernity meets history. After wartime destruction, the city has rebuilt itself with aplomb, offering tourists a wide range of attractions with affordable accommodation and food.

🏰 Old Town and Royal Castle - The heart of Warsaw with beautiful architecture and atmospheric streets.
🌳 Royal Baths - A vast park with palaces, gardens and numerous monuments.
🎨 National Museum and Copernicus Science Center - Cultural and scientific places for everyone.
🍽️ Restaurants and cafes - From traditional Polish cuisine to modern flavors, budget-friendly prices.
🚇 Urban transport - An extensive network of streetcars, buses and subways with cheap tickets.

💵 Approximate prices in USD (for 2 people, 2 days):

• Overnight stay at a 3★ hotel: about $90-130 per night.
• Dinner at a restaurant: USD 7-15 per person
• Coffee or dessert: $2-4
• Public transportation ticket: US$1.5-2 per ride
• Museum admission ticket: USD 5-10

🏨 Recommended places to stay:

1. Polonia Palace Hotel - An elegant hotel in the center with an excellent location.
2. H15 Boutique Hotel - A stylish hotel with a unique design and friendly service.
3. Ibis Warsaw Old Town - Comfortable and affordable accommodation close to the Old Town.
4. Oki Doki Hostel - A budget option for younger tourists and solo travelers.
5. Mamaison Hotel Le Regina Warsaw - A luxury hotel in a historic building.

Warsaw is an excellent choice for combining sightseeing with comfort and reasonable cost of stay.

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4️⃣ Podgorica (Montenegro) - an intimate capital with low prices

Podgorica, Montenegro's small and peaceful capital, offers tourists an authentic Balkan experience at very affordable prices. The city combines historical elements with modernity, and is an excellent starting point for exploring the region's beautiful nature.

🏛️ Old Town (Stara Varoš) - A historic district with mosques, churches and narrow streets, full of local charm.
🌉 Millennium Bridge - A modern structure that is a symbol of the city and a great place for a walk at dusk.
🌳 Park Gorica - Green space with numerous walking paths, ideal for relaxation.
🕌 St. George's Cathedral - The impressive Orthodox Church, one of Podgorica's top attractions.
🍽️ Local cuisine - Fresh seafood, traditional Balkan dishes and regional wines at very reasonable prices.

💵 Approximate prices in USD (for 2 people, 2 days):

• Overnight stay at a 3★ hotel: about $70-110 per night.
• Dinner at a restaurant: USD 6-12 per person
• Coffee or dessert: $1.5-3
• Public transportation ticket: 1-2 USD per ride
• Museum entrance ticket: USD 3-7

🏨 Recommended places to stay:

1. Ziya Hotel - A cozy hotel in the city center, with good service and comfortable rooms.
2. Hotel Monte - A modern hotel with a swimming pool and spa center.
3. Podgorica Hotel - A classic hotel with a convenient location close to major attractions.
4. Hostel Free Spirit - A cheap and friendly hostel for younger travelers.
5. Boutique Hotel Casa del Mare - An intimate hotel with a personalized approach to guests.

Podgorica is the perfect place for those who want to combine cheap accommodation with an authentic Balkan climate and proximity to nature.

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3️⃣ Lisbon (Portugal) - sunny capital with attractive prices

Lisbon is a charming city full of colorful streets, historic sites and a maritime vibe. Portugal's capital combines a rich history with a vibrant culture, and despite its popularity, it remains relatively affordable compared to other Western European metropolises.

🏰 St. George's Castle - A dominant feature of the city with panoramic views of Lisbon and the Atlantic Ocean.
🚋 Streetcar No. 28 - An iconic streetcar line that passes through major neighborhoods and landmarks.
🎶 Alfama district - A maze of narrow streets and a place of traditional fado music.
🍽️ Portuguese cuisine - Fresh seafood, pastéis de nata and wine at affordable prices.
🌉 April 25 Bridge - Lisbon's iconic landmark, often compared to the Golden Gate Bridge.

💵 Approximate prices in USD (for 2 people, 2 days):

• Overnight stay at a 3★ hotel: about $110-160 per night.
• Dinner at a restaurant: USD 10-20 per person
• Coffee or dessert: $3-6
• Public transportation ticket: US$1.5-3 per ride
• Museum entrance ticket: USD 7-15

🏨 Recommended places to stay:

1. Hotel Mundial - Hotel overlooking the Old Town, close to the center.
2. Lisboa Carmo Hotel - A boutique hotel in the historic Baixa district.
3. My Story Hotel Rossio - A modern and comfortable hotel close to the main attractions.
4. Goodmorning Solo Traveller Hostel - A popular hostel for younger tourists.
5. Altis Avenida Hotel - A luxury hotel in the heart of Lisbon, with a rooftop terrace.

Lisbon is ideal for those who want to combine sightseeing with a pleasant climate and reasonable expenses for accommodation and food.

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2️⃣ Zagreb (Croatia) - a charming capital with low prices

Zagreb, the capital of Croatia, is a city full of greenery, monuments and a friendly atmosphere. It combines traditional architecture with a modern lifestyle, offering tourists many attractions at affordable prices.

🏰 Upper Town (Gornji Grad) - A historic district with a cathedral, squares and numerous museums.
🌳 Park Maksimir - The city's largest park, ideal for walking and relaxation.
🎨 Museum of Contemporary Art - rich collections of contemporary art and cultural events.
🍽️ Local cuisine - Restaurants serving traditional Croatian dishes at favorable prices.
🚋 Urban transport - A developed streetcar network with cheap tickets.

💵 Approximate prices in USD (for 2 people, 2 days):

• Overnight stay at a 3★ hotel: about $80-130 per night.
• Dinner at a restaurant: USD 7-14 per person
• Coffee or dessert: $2-5
• Public transportation ticket: US$1.5-2.5 per ride
• Museum admission ticket: USD 4-10

🏨 Recommended places to stay:

1. Hotel Dubrovnik - A classic hotel in the center, close to the main attractions.
2. Palace Hotel Zagreb - An elegant hotel with a traditional atmosphere.
3. Canopy by Hilton Zagreb City Centre - A modern hotel with high standards.
4. Chillout Hostel Zagreb - A budget option for younger tourists.
5. Hotel Jägerhorn - An intimate hotel in the heart of the Old Town.

Zagreb is an excellent choice for those looking for a cheap yet comfortable stay in an atmospheric European capital.

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1️⃣ Prague (Czech Republic) - a magical capital with affordable prices

Prague is one of Europe's most beautiful and atmospheric cities, which impresses with both its historical sites and affordable prices. The Czech capital is famous for its picturesque Old Town, majestic castle and vibrant cultural life.

🏰 Prague Castle - impressive palace complex, a symbol of the city and the country.
🌉 Charles Bridge - iconic stone bridge with numerous sculptures, a popular place for walks and photography.
⛪ Old Town Square - The heart of the city with the City Hall and the famous astronomical clock.
🍺 Traditional Czech beer and cuisine - numerous beer bars serving local specialties at reasonable prices.
🚇 Public transport - A convenient network of subways, streetcars and buses with cheap tickets.

💵 Approximate prices in USD (for 2 people, 2 days):

• Overnight stay at a 3★ hotel: about $90-140 per night.
• Dinner at a restaurant: USD 8-18 per person
• Coffee or dessert: $2-5
• Public transportation ticket: US$1.5-2.5 per ride
• Museum entrance ticket: USD 5-15

🏨 Recommended places to stay:

1. Kings Court Hotel - A luxury hotel in the heart of the city.
2. NYX Hotel Prague by Leonardo Hotels - A modern hotel with an artistic flair.
3. Hotel Pod Věží - A cozy hotel just off the Charles Bridge.
4. Miss Sophie's Downtown - A stylish hostel with comfortable rooms.
5. Grandior Hotel Prague - An elegant hotel with a good location and amenities.

Prague is the perfect place for anyone who wants to explore the beauty of Central Europe without spending too much.

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🏁 Summary: Where to find cheap accommodation in Europe and how to save money during a city break?

Traveling to European capitals doesn't have to be expensive. Our ranking includes cities that combine rich history and culture with affordable accommodation, food and transportation. Capitals such as Prague, Zagreb or Vilnius They offer great value for money.

It's worth remembering that the price of accommodation is only part of the expenses - food, tickets and transportation costs are also important. Many cities have free or low-cost attractions, further reducing the budget.

When planning a trip, take advantage of promotions and book in advance to maximize savings.

Bottom line: there are many capitals in Europe where you can have a cheap and interesting time if you plan your trip well.

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