A recent analysis has pinpointed the most economical European capitals for travelers in 2024, assessing the overall vacation expenses per individual for a six-day, five-night stay in these capitals. The calculations encompass average daily expenditures on meals and local transportation, accommodation rates, and travel costs.
To ascertain the costs of inbound air travel for destinations and outbound travel for origins, data regarding daily expenses, travel costs to and from the city, and average prices for journeys between various European capitals were utilized. Additionally, the study factored in average hotel rates for two adults staying for five nights in September. These elements were aggregated to yield an estimate of total expenditure per person throughout the duration of the trip.
This research highlights the potential of economical travel within Europe to provide access to some of the continent’s most culturally vibrant and historically important capitals.
1. Pristina, Kosovo
Recognized as the most economical capital in Europe for a vacation, Pristina provides visitors with an affordable entry point to the distinctive culture and history of Kosovo. The overall cost of a trip per individual in Pristina amounts to merely $720.16.
With an average daily expenditure of $32.07, tourists can immerse themselves in the city’s modernist architecture, which features notable landmarks such as the National Library and the historic Sultan Mehmet Fatih Mosque, as well as its vibrant café culture and dynamic street art.
Accommodation and transportation expenses in Pristina are among the lowest across Europe. The typical hotel rate for a five-night stay is $150.90 per person, while travel costs remain below $192.60 for each leg of the journey. This positions Pristina not only as the most budget-friendly capital in Europe but also as an increasingly appealing destination for those wishing to explore the Balkans.
2. Skopje, North Macedonia
Skopje, the capital city of North Macedonia, is positioned second on the list, with an overall expense of $738.87 per individual for a six-day trip. The city presents a harmonious blend of ancient heritage and contemporary urban living, with daily expenditures averaging $34.61.
Accommodation in Skopje is notably economical, with an average price of $131.02 per person for a five-night stay. When factoring in average travel expenses of approximately $199.84, Skopje emerges as a budget-friendly destination for those wishing to immerse themselves in the history and culture of Southeastern Europe.
3. Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, holds the third position, with a total vacation cost of $836.60 per person. Daily costs average $35.99, as Sarajevo showcases a distinctive fusion of cultures and historical significance.
Hotel rates in Sarajevo are reasonably priced, averaging $195.56 per person for a five-night stay. Coupled with travel expenses of about $212.86, Sarajevo provides a rich cultural experience while remaining affordable.
4. Chișinău, Moldova
Chișinău, the capital city of Moldova, is positioned fourth with an overall vacation expenditure of $838.96 per individual. The daily expenditure in the city is approximately $39.12, which enables visitors to enjoy its lush parks, Soviet-era architecture, and emerging wine scene.
Travel expenses are also quite reasonable, with inbound travel averaging around $222 and outbound travel costing about $207.14.
Accommodation in Chișinău is budget-friendly, with an average hotel rate of $174.10 per person for a five-night stay. Overall travel costs are manageable, making Chișinău an appealing destination for those interested in exploring one of Europe’s lesser-known capitals without incurring excessive expenses.
5. Podgorica, Montenegro
Podgorica, the capital of Montenegro, is ranked fifth on the list, with a total vacation cost of $850.56 per person for a six-day visit. The average daily spending in the city is $44.19, which totals $265.14 for the entire duration of the trip.
Accommodation in Podgorica is affordably priced, with an average cost of $160.44 for five nights. Travel expenses are also moderate, with inbound flights averaging $212.86 and outbound flights at $213.12. These factors collectively render Podgorica an appealing choice for those wishing to discover Montenegro.
Belgrade, the capital city of Serbia, is positioned sixth in terms of total vacation expenses, amounting to $893.36. Following closely is Budapest, Hungary, which ranks seventh with a total cost of $924.41. Although these capitals are slightly pricier than the top five destinations, they still present economical choices for travelers, each boasting distinct cultural and historical landmarks.
In eighth and ninth places are Warsaw, Poland, with a vacation cost of $928.91, and Sofia, Bulgaria, at $930.57. Both cities are celebrated for their rich historical backgrounds and lively cultural environments. While they are more expensive than the leading cities, they continue to offer substantial value for those wishing to discover Eastern Europe without incurring excessive expenses.
Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, occupies the tenth position with an overall vacation cost of $950.37 for a six-day visit. The average daily expenditure in the city is $56.92, culminating in a total of $341.52 for the entire stay.
Accommodation in Bratislava is relatively budget-friendly, costing approximately $286.73 for five nights. Travel expenses are also reasonable, with inbound flights averaging around $161.34 and outbound flights at $160.78.
